National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

A 35-year-old woman here was allegedly held captive by her husband and in-laws for almost a week, beaten up and attacked with acid and hot oil, PTI reported quoting police sources on Wednesday.

The woman, Kausar, said she married Kasim almost a year ago.

In her complaint, she said that she was held hostage on July 9 and beaten up. Her neck was burnt using hot oil, fingers and toes were also attacked with acid. She was kept hungry and thirsty. After this, she was thrown out of the house on July 17."

According to Superintendent of Police Balendu Bhushan Singh, "On the complaint lodged by the woman at Puranpur police station late last night, a case has been registered against her husband and in-laws.

"Since the allegations are very serious, the police is probing each and every aspect of the case and will then gradually proceed further."&nbsp

In her complaint, she said that she was held hostage on July 9 and beaten up. Her neck was burnt using hot oil, fingers and toes were also attacked with acid. She was kept hungry and thirsty. After this, she was thrown out of the house on July 17."

A 35-year-old woman here was allegedly held captive by her husband and in-laws for almost a week, beaten up and attacked with acid and hot oil, PTI reported quoting police sources on Wednesday. The woman, Kausar, said she married Kasim almost a year ago. In her complaint, she said that she was held hostage on July 9 and beaten up. Her neck was burnt using hot oil, fingers and toes were also attacked with acid. She was kept hungry and thirsty. After this, she was thrown out of the house on July 17." According to Superintendent of Police Balendu Bhushan Singh, "On the complaint lodged by the woman at Puranpur police station late last night, a case has been registered against her husband and in-laws. "Since the allegations are very serious, the police is probing each and every aspect of the case and will then gradually proceed further."

Woman held captive by husband and in-laws, attacked with acid and hot oil

A nation-wide truckers' strike in India entered its seventh day on Thursday, disrupting movement of essential commodities such as grains and vegetables, and hurting cotton trade in the world's biggest producer of the fibre, industry officials said.

All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), a leading truckers' body, began an indefinite strike from July 20 demanding reduction in central and state taxes on diesel by bringing the fuel under the ambit of the nationwide Goods and Service Tax.

"The shipment of cotton has stopped, leading to non-fulfillment of obligations by the exporters resulting in the problems of cancellation and delayed shipment," said Atul Ganatra, president of Cotton Association of India.

Cotton ginning factories were on the verge of closure because of the lack of raw material, said Ganatra, adding "traders are not able to move the cotton sold and payments are stuck due to non-movement of yarn".

China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Pakistan are the main buyers of Indian cotton.

Supply of vegetables like onions and potatoes has fallen in big cities including the financial capital Mumbai and national capital Delhi.

Some vegetables such as potatoes have become costlier, but the rise is modest for now as traders have left-over stock, said a Mumbai-based trader.

"That inventory is now depleting. If the strike continues for a few more days, then prices will rise sharply," the trader said.

Potato prices in Delhi have risen 29 percent in a week, according to data compiled by the National Horticulture Research and Development Foundation. 
&nbsp

All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), a leading truckers' body, began an indefinite strike from July 20 demanding reduction in central and state taxes on diesel by bringing the fuel under the ambit of the nationwide Goods and Service Tax

A nation-wide truckers' strike in India entered its seventh day on Thursday, disrupting movement of essential commodities such as grains and vegetables, and hurting cotton trade in the world's biggest producer of the fibre, industry officials said. All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), a leading truckers' body, began an indefinite strike from July 20 demanding reduction in central and state taxes on diesel by bringing the fuel under the ambit of the nationwide Goods and Service Tax. "The shipment of cotton has stopped, leading to non-fulfillment of obligations by the exporters resulting in the problems of cancellation and delayed shipment," said Atul Ganatra, president of Cotton Association of India. Cotton ginning factories were on the verge of closure because of the lack of raw material, said Ganatra, adding "traders are not able to move the cotton sold and payments are stuck due to non-movement of yarn". China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Pakistan are the main buyers of Indian cotton. Supply of vegetables like onions and potatoes has fallen in big cities including the financial capital Mumbai and national capital Delhi. Some vegetables such as potatoes have become costlier, but the rise is modest for now as traders have left-over stock, said a Mumbai-based trader. "That inventory is now depleting. If the strike continues for a few more days, then prices will rise sharply," the trader said. Potato prices in Delhi have risen 29 percent in a week, according to data compiled by the National Horticulture Research and Development Foundation.

Nationwide truckers' strike enters Day 7, supply of essential commodities hit

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-promises-a-new-pakistan-calls-for-good-relations-with-india-154815">Imran Khan promises a new&nbspPakistan, calls for good relations with India</a>

Imran Khan spoke to the press and the people of Pakistan and the world from Islamabad Thursday. His Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party is on the cusp of victory in the national elections which were held yesterday.&nbsp

Khan invoked both the founder of Pakistan, "Quaid-e-Azam" or "Great Leader" Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Madina, saying he wanted Pakistan to become the sort of country that existed in seventh-century Madina and that Jinnah had envisioned.&nbsp

Khan promised wide-ranging reform, saying that no country with an "island of rich people and a sea of poor people" could prosper. He promsied an end to corruption, as well as accountability, first of himself, then of his ministers, and so on.&nbsp

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-has-quietly-resumed-its-activities-in-doklam-area-us-official-154768">China has quietly resumed its activities in Doklam: Top US official</a>

China has quietly resumed its activities in the Doklam area and neither Bhutan nor India has sought to dissuade it, a top US official has said while comparing Beijing's actions in the Himalayan region with its manoeuvres in the disputed South China Sea.China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

&nbsp

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-defence-minister-to-visit-india-before-year-end-154774">Chinese defence minister to visit India before </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-defence-minister-to-visit-india-before-year-end-154774">end</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-defence-minister-to-visit-india-before-year-end-154774"> of the year</a>

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe has accepted an invitation to visit India and plans to do so by the end of this year, China said on Thursday, as a rapprochement between the two giant neighbours gathers pace.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in April to open a new chapter in ties, just months after a dispute over a stretch of their high-altitude Himalayan border rekindled fears of war.

Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang said both countries were currently in communication about Wei's visit, but gave no other details.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-bjp-mla-wants-meat-complex-in-state-as-it-has-large-number-of-beef-eaters-154749">Goa: BJP MLA wants meat complex in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-bjp-mla-wants-meat-complex-in-state-as-it-has-large-number-of-beef-eaters-154749">state</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-bjp-mla-wants-meat-complex-in-state-as-it-has-large-number-of-beef-eaters-154749"> as it has </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-bjp-mla-wants-meat-complex-in-state-as-it-has-large-number-of-beef-eaters-154749">large</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-bjp-mla-wants-meat-complex-in-state-as-it-has-large-number-of-beef-eaters-154749"> number of 'beef eaters'</a>

Goa BJP legislator has demanded the opening of Goa meat complex in the state, claiming that there is a huge shortage of beef in the state.

''I want the minister to tell me when Goa meat complex will start and whether there will be an interference from so-called 'gau rakshaks'. I respect them but there are people in Goa in large numbers who eat beef. You cannot stop that, '' BJP MLA Michael Lobo said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/tehran-will-respond-to-any-hostile-action-iran-special-forces-chief-tells-trump--154814">Tehran will respond to any hostile action: Iran special forces chief tells Trump</a>

An Iranian military commander said on Thursday that Donald Trump should address any threats against Tehran directly to him, and mocked the US president as using the language of "night clubs and gambling halls".

The comments by Major-General Qassem Soleimani, who heads the Quds Force of Iran`s powerful Revolutionary Guards Corps, were the latest salvo in a war of words between the two countries.

"As a soldier, it is my duty to respond to Trump`s threats. If he wants to use the language of threat, he should talk to me, not to the president (Hassan Rouhani)," Soleimani was quoted as saying by the Iranian Young Journalists` Club.

Imran Khan promises a new&nbspPakistan, calls for good relations with India Imran Khan spoke to the press and the people of Pakistan and the world from Islamabad Thursday. His Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party is on the cusp of victory in the national elections which were held yesterday. Khan invoked both the founder of Pakistan, "Quaid-e-Azam" or "Great Leader" Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Madina, saying he wanted Pakistan to become the sort of country that existed in seventh-century Madina and that Jinnah had envisioned. Khan promised wide-ranging reform, saying that no country with an "island of rich people and a sea of poor people" could prosper. He promsied an end to corruption, as well as accountability, first of himself, then of his ministers, and so on. China has quietly resumed its activities in Doklam: Top US official China has quietly resumed its activities in the Doklam area and neither Bhutan nor India has sought to dissuade it, a top US official has said while comparing Beijing's actions in the Himalayan region with its manoeuvres in the disputed South China Sea.China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims. Chinese defence minister to visit India before end of the year Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe has accepted an invitation to visit India and plans to do so by the end of this year, China said on Thursday, as a rapprochement between the two giant neighbours gathers pace. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in April to open a new chapter in ties, just months after a dispute over a stretch of their high-altitude Himalayan border rekindled fears of war. Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang said both countries were currently in communication about Wei's visit, but gave no other details. Goa: BJP MLA wants meat complex in state as it has large number of 'beef eaters' Goa BJP legislator has demanded the opening of Goa meat complex in the state, claiming that there is a huge shortage of beef in the state. ''I want the minister to tell me when Goa meat complex will start and whether there will be an interference from so-called 'gau rakshaks'. I respect them but there are people in Goa in large numbers who eat beef. You cannot stop that, '' BJP MLA Michael Lobo said. Tehran will respond to any hostile action: Iran special forces chief tells Trump An Iranian military commander said on Thursday that Donald Trump should address any threats against Tehran directly to him, and mocked the US president as using the language of "night clubs and gambling halls". The comments by Major-General Qassem Soleimani, who heads the Quds Force of Iran`s powerful Revolutionary Guards Corps, were the latest salvo in a war of words between the two countries. "As a soldier, it is my duty to respond to Trump`s threats. If he wants to use the language of threat, he should talk to me, not to the president (Hassan Rouhani)," Soleimani was quoted as saying by the Iranian Young Journalists` Club.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Launching yet another&nbsp;attack on their former ally Nitish Kumar, Lalu Prasad's eldest son Tej Pratap Yadav took out a "cycle yatra" in Patna on Thursday.

Tej Pratap said the cycle rally was meant to protest against rising petrol prices.

But, to his embarrassment, the RJD leader fell.

Expectedly,&nbsp;his security detail rushed to help him up but Tej Pratap quickly got up on his own.&nbsp;

The fall however was caught by a number of passersby and is quickly going viral.

Watch the video:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> RJD leader Tej Pratap Yadav tumbles to the ground during a cycle rally in Patna earlier today <a href="https://t.co/ulgdH4GZYx">pic.twitter.com/ulgdH4GZYx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1022406877206835200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Petrol and diesel prices have become costlier. It is best to ride a cycle now, it also helps to stay healthy," Tej Pratap had told ANI before setting out on his rally.&nbsp;

He added that cycling also helps keep one healthy.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Patna: RJD's Tej Pratap Yadav takes out a cycle yatra, says, "petrol and diesel have become costlier, it is best to ride a cycle now, it also helps to stay healthy." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/8f8oxjZMyb">pic.twitter.com/8f8oxjZMyb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1022331260130058240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Tej Pratap has been in the news recently after he married Bihar minister Chandrika Prasad Rai's daughter Aishwarya Rai. The marriage had been a big, well-attended affair.

Next up is Tej Pratap's Hindu film debut — he's done a Bhojpuri film before this — with "Rudra - The Avtar".&nbsp;

Tej Pratap, 29, was before this a Bihar cabinet minister while his father and Nitish were still allies.&nbsp;

Tej Pratap had said he was taking out the rally to protest against rising petrol and diesel prices

Launching yet another attack on their former ally Nitish Kumar, Lalu Prasad's eldest son Tej Pratap Yadav took out a "cycle yatra" in Patna on Thursday. Tej Pratap said the cycle rally was meant to protest against rising petrol prices. But, to his embarrassment, the RJD leader fell. Expectedly, his security detail rushed to help him up but Tej Pratap quickly got up on his own. The fall however was caught by a number of passersby and is quickly going viral. Watch the video: #WATCH RJD leader Tej Pratap Yadav tumbles to the ground during a cycle rally in Patna earlier today pic.twitter.com/ulgdH4GZYx — ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2018 × "Petrol and diesel prices have become costlier. It is best to ride a cycle now, it also helps to stay healthy," Tej Pratap had told ANI before setting out on his rally. He added that cycling also helps keep one healthy. Patna: RJD's Tej Pratap Yadav takes out a cycle yatra, says, "petrol and diesel have become costlier, it is best to ride a cycle now, it also helps to stay healthy." #Bihar pic.twitter.com/8f8oxjZMyb — ANI (@ANI) July 26, 2018 × Tej Pratap has been in the news recently after he married Bihar minister Chandrika Prasad Rai's daughter Aishwarya Rai. The marriage had been a big, well-attended affair. Next up is Tej Pratap's Hindu film debut — he's done a Bhojpuri film before this — with "Rudra - The Avtar". Tej Pratap, 29, was before this a Bihar cabinet minister while his father and Nitish were still allies.

Watch: Lalu's son takes out cycle rally, falls; video goes viral

Launching yet another attack on their former ally Nitish Kumar, Lalu Prasad's eldest son Tej Pratap Yadav took out a "cycle yatra" in Patna on Thursday.

Lalu's son takes out cycle rally, falls; video goes viral

Prime Minister Modi while addressing the BRICS 2018 Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday laid emphasis on the education system in India.

He said that the education system in the country should prepare the youth for skilled jobs.

The PM&nbsp;said he would discuss the Fourth Industry revolution with the BRICS leaders in the summit and added that the Industry Revolution would give more importance to skill and talent than capital.

He said that the education system in the country should train the youth in performing skilled jobs.

He also added that the education system should be accessible to all the sections of the society including women.

He said the workers should be trained to do high skilled jobs.

PM Modi&nbsp;said we should utilise technological innovations to improve the service delivery and productivity levels.

He also referred to the government's&nbsp;several schemes and said that the National School Mission were&nbsp;introduced&nbsp;to train the youth and prepare them for relevant technical and skill education.

PM Modi further said that the government should work together to ensure cybersecurity. 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Fourth Industrial Revolution में पूंजी से ज्यादा महत्व प्रतिभा का होगा। High-skill परन्तु अस्थाई work रोजगार का नया चेहरा होगा। 
Industrial production, design, और manufacturing में मौलिक बदलाव आएंगे: PM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1022441275318984705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
School और University पाठ्यक्रम को इस तरह बनाना होगा जिससे ये हमारे युवाओं को भविष्य के लिए तैयार कर सकें। 
 
हमें बहुत सजग रहना होगा कि technology के क्षेत्र में आने वाले तेज बदलाव कम से कम उसी गति से पाठ्यक्रमों में स्थान पा सकें: PM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1022441564092551168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
बेहतर service delivery, productivity levels बढ़ाने के लिए technological innovations सहायता कर सकते हैं। 
 
हमारा अनुभव इस मामले में सकारात्मक रहा है। कानूनों का पालन, सामाजिक सुरक्षा और सरकारी योजनाओं का लाभार्थियों को सीधा भुगतान technology द्वारा बेहतर delivery का उदाहरण है: PM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1022442146899480576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Prime Minister will&nbsp;hold bilateral meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, on the sidelines of the&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/brics-emerging-economies-meet-as-us-trade-war-looms-154299">BRICS Summit </a>in&nbsp;Johannesburg today.

The PM said he would discuss the Fourth Industry revolution with the BRICS leaders in the summit and added that the Industry Revolution would give more importance to skill and talent than capital

Prime Minister Modi while addressing the BRICS 2018 Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday laid emphasis on the education system in India. He said that the education system in the country should prepare the youth for skilled jobs. The PM said he would discuss the Fourth Industry revolution with the BRICS leaders in the summit and added that the Industry Revolution would give more importance to skill and talent than capital. He said that the education system in the country should train the youth in performing skilled jobs. He also added that the education system should be accessible to all the sections of the society including women. He said the workers should be trained to do high skilled jobs. PM Modi said we should utilise technological innovations to improve the service delivery and productivity levels. He also referred to the government's several schemes and said that the National School Mission were introduced to train the youth and prepare them for relevant technical and skill education. PM Modi further said that the government should work together to ensure cybersecurity. Fourth Industrial Revolution में पूंजी से ज्यादा महत्व प्रतिभा का होगा। High-skill परन्तु अस्थाई work रोजगार का नया चेहरा होगा। Industrial production, design, और manufacturing में मौलिक बदलाव आएंगे: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 26, 2018 × School और University पाठ्यक्रम को इस तरह बनाना होगा जिससे ये हमारे युवाओं को भविष्य के लिए तैयार कर सकें। हमें बहुत सजग रहना होगा कि technology के क्षेत्र में आने वाले तेज बदलाव कम से कम उसी गति से पाठ्यक्रमों में स्थान पा सकें: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 26, 2018 × बेहतर service delivery, productivity levels बढ़ाने के लिए technological innovations सहायता कर सकते हैं। हमारा अनुभव इस मामले में सकारात्मक रहा है। कानूनों का पालन, सामाजिक सुरक्षा और सरकारी योजनाओं का लाभार्थियों को सीधा भुगतान technology द्वारा बेहतर delivery का उदाहरण है: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 26, 2018 × The Prime Minister will hold bilateral meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg today.

At BRICS Summit, Modi talks education and skill development

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe has accepted an invitation to visit India and plans to do so by the end of this year, China said on Thursday, as a rapprochement between the two giant neighbours gathers pace.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in April to open a new chapter in ties, just months after a dispute over a stretch of their high-altitude Himalayan border rekindled fears of war.

Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang said both countries were currently in communication about Wei's visit, but gave no other details.

Hundreds of troops from both sides were deployed in 2017 on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-has-quietly-resumed-its-activities-in-doklam-area-us-official-154768">Doklam plateau</a>, near the borders of India, its ally Bhutan, and China after India objected to Chinese construction of a road in the Himalayan area in their most serious standoff in years.

There is still deep mistrust between the neighbours over their festering border dispute, which triggered a brief war in 1962.

Ren added that Major General Liu Xiaowu, deputy commander of China's western military region, had also visited India from July 2-6, for meetings with his Indian counterparts.

During his trip, both countries reached broad consensus about improving front line risk management, the need to maintain peace and stability along the border and strengthening of exchanges between their two border forces, Ren said.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed in April to open a new chapter in their ties, just months after the Doklam dispute

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe has accepted an invitation to visit India and plans to do so by the end of this year, China said on Thursday, as a rapprochement between the two giant neighbours gathers pace. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed in April to open a new chapter in ties, just months after a dispute over a stretch of their high-altitude Himalayan border rekindled fears of war. Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang said both countries were currently in communication about Wei's visit, but gave no other details. Hundreds of troops from both sides were deployed in 2017 on the Doklam plateau, near the borders of India, its ally Bhutan, and China after India objected to Chinese construction of a road in the Himalayan area in their most serious standoff in years. There is still deep mistrust between the neighbours over their festering border dispute, which triggered a brief war in 1962. Ren added that Major General Liu Xiaowu, deputy commander of China's western military region, had also visited India from July 2-6, for meetings with his Indian counterparts. During his trip, both countries reached broad consensus about improving front line risk management, the need to maintain peace and stability along the border and strengthening of exchanges between their two border forces, Ren said.

Chinese defence minister to visit India before end of the year

Indian army personnel and ministers paid homage to soldiers by laying floral wreaths on the anniversary of Kargil war on Thursday, commemorating the sacrifice by soldiers defending the borders during the 1999 conflict with Pakistan.

Indian armed forces pay respect to soldiers of Kargil war

Goa BJP legislator has demanded the opening of Goa meat complex in the state, claiming that there is a huge shortage of beef in the state.

''I want the minister to tell me when Goa meat complex will start and whether there will be an interference from so-called 'gau rakshaks'. I respect them but there are people in Goa in large numbers who eat beef. You cannot stop that, '' BJP MLA Michael Lobo said.

Lobo made these remarks while speaking in the Goa Assembly on Wednesday.

Lobo said that his remarks will not be well received by some people, but that will not stop him from saying the truth.

''Some may not like the way I am talking. If we do not want beef to come from Karnataka and Maharashtra, then certified cattle in Goa should be slaughtered at govt meat complex,'' the BJP legislator said, adding that, ''It has to start.''

The firebrand BJP MLA also came down heavily on the cow vigilantes who were blocking the entry of beef into the state.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G-vJuVrp2xo" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

''Some so-called cow protectors are standing at the state border and blocking the entry for beef being brought to Goa. Goa meat complex is shut. We've failed on this front. There are many meat eaters in Goa, '' Lobo said.

Beef ban was badly affecting tourism in the state, he said.

''Tourists come here to eat beef. There is a huge shortage of beef in Goa,'' Lobo said.

The statement from Lobo comes at a time when several right-wing outfits and their leaders have urged people, especially Muslims, to shun beef so as to prevent the incidents of mob lynching.&nbsp;

Lobo said that his remarks will not be well received by some people, but that will not stop him from saying the truth.

Goa BJP legislator has demanded the opening of Goa meat complex in the state, claiming that there is a huge shortage of beef in the state. ''I want the minister to tell me when Goa meat complex will start and whether there will be an interference from so-called 'gau rakshaks'. I respect them but there are people in Goa in large numbers who eat beef. You cannot stop that, '' BJP MLA Michael Lobo said. Lobo made these remarks while speaking in the Goa Assembly on Wednesday. Lobo said that his remarks will not be well received by some people, but that will not stop him from saying the truth. ''Some may not like the way I am talking. If we do not want beef to come from Karnataka and Maharashtra, then certified cattle in Goa should be slaughtered at govt meat complex,'' the BJP legislator said, adding that, ''It has to start.'' The firebrand BJP MLA also came down heavily on the cow vigilantes who were blocking the entry of beef into the state. × ''Some so-called cow protectors are standing at the state border and blocking the entry for beef being brought to Goa. Goa meat complex is shut. We've failed on this front. There are many meat eaters in Goa, '' Lobo said. Beef ban was badly affecting tourism in the state, he said. ''Tourists come here to eat beef. There is a huge shortage of beef in Goa,'' Lobo said. The statement from Lobo comes at a time when several right-wing outfits and their leaders have urged people, especially Muslims, to shun beef so as to prevent the incidents of mob lynching.

Goa: BJP MLA wants meat complex in state as it has large number of 'beef eaters'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reaffirmed India's commitment to multilateralism, international trade and rules-based world order as he participated in the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.

Modi, who arrived in South Africa&nbspyesterday on the last leg of his Africa tour, presented the country statement of India at the BRICS leaders' closed session.&nbsp

"Celebrating a decade towards peace, harmony and shared development and prosperity! PM @narendramodi joins fellow #BRICS leaders at the group photo at Sandton International Convention Centre at the formal beginning of the Summit," Raveesh Kumar, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, tweeted.

The prime minister reaffirmed India's commitment to multilateralism, international trade and rules-based world order, he said.&nbsp

The grouping's leaders during the 10th edition of the BRICS Summit are expected to deliberate on global hot-spot issues, international peace and security, global governance and trade issues among others.

Modi is also expected to meet BRICS leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin and other world leaders.&nbsp

BRICS is a grouping of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Originally the first four were grouped as "BRIC", before the induction of South Africa in 2010. 
&nbsp

'Celebrating a decade towards peace, harmony and shared development and prosperity! PM @narendramodi joins fellow #BRICS leaders at the group photo at Sandton International Convention Centre at the formal beginning of the Summit' MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reaffirmed India's commitment to multilateralism, international trade and rules-based world order as he participated in the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. Modi, who arrived in South Africa&nbspyesterday on the last leg of his Africa tour, presented the country statement of India at the BRICS leaders' closed session. "Celebrating a decade towards peace, harmony and shared development and prosperity! PM @narendramodi joins fellow #BRICS leaders at the group photo at Sandton International Convention Centre at the formal beginning of the Summit," Raveesh Kumar, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, tweeted. The prime minister reaffirmed India's commitment to multilateralism, international trade and rules-based world order, he said. The grouping's leaders during the 10th edition of the BRICS Summit are expected to deliberate on global hot-spot issues, international peace and security, global governance and trade issues among others. Modi is also expected to meet BRICS leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin and other world leaders. BRICS is a grouping of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Originally the first four were grouped as "BRIC", before the induction of South Africa in 2010.

PM Modi reaffirms India's commitment to multilateralism, rules-based world at BRICS Summit

China has quietly resumed its activities in the Doklam area and neither Bhutan nor India has sought to dissuade it, a top US official has said while comparing Beijing's actions in the Himalayan region with its manoeuvres in the disputed South China Sea.China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims.

China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region. Both areas are stated to be rich in minerals, oil and other natural resources and are also vital to global trade.

"I would assess that India is vigorously defending its northern borders and this is a subject of concern to India," Alice G Wells, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing while responding to a question on China's increased road building activities along the Indian border.

"As (India) ahead to its own strategic stability, it certainly helps drive and is a factor in driving closer partnership that we enjoy with India," Wells said in response to a question from Congresswoman Ann Wagner.

India and China have clashed repeatedly over territories in the Himalayas. Most recently Chinese and Indian troops faced off on the disputed Doklam plateau between Bhutan and China after the Chinese People's Liberation Army began building roads through the area, Wagner said.

"Although both countries backed down, China has quietly resumed its activities in Doklam and neither Bhutan nor India has sought to dissuade it. China's activities in the Himalayas remind me of its south China Sea policies. How should our failure to respond to the militarisation of the South China Sea inform the international response to these Himalayan border disputes?" Wagner asked.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doklam-was-a-setback-china-keen-on-teaching-india-a-lesson-19300">Doklam was a setback, China keen on teaching India a lesson</a>

As the US looks to the Indo-Pacific strategy put forward by the Trump administration, Wells said it has been taken in light of the 'South China Sea's Strategy'.

"How do we maintain the region to be open, to have maritime security, to not have militarisation that would imperil the 70 per cent of global trade?" she asked.

"We need to do that by giving authority to sovereign nations to have choices in how they develop, to have choices in their partnerships," Wells said. 
Congressman Ted Yoho, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Sub-Committee on Asia and the Pacific, raised the issue of China's aggressive posture in South Asia.

"What are your thoughts on what is the best way to counter China in that region?" Yoho asked.

US should not be seeking to compete with China dollar for dollar, Wells responded, adding that instead of a state lending on terms that may not be to the benefit of countries or their citizens, the&nbsp; 
US and its companies are providing USD 850 billion in foreign direct investment in the region, which is far more than what has been injected by China.

"We're trying to gather likeminded countries who can bring resources to the table, who can coordinate assistance and an effort so as to provide countries with meaningful alternatives," Wells said.

Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day-long standoff in Doklam from June 16 last year after the Indian side stopped the building of a road in the disputed tri-junction by the Chinese Army. 
Bhutan and China have a dispute over Doklam. The face-off ended on August 28.&nbsp;

The comment was made by Alice G Wells, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia. She added that neither Indian nor Bhutan had done anything to dissuade China

China has quietly resumed its activities in the Doklam area and neither Bhutan nor India has sought to dissuade it, a top US official has said while comparing Beijing's actions in the Himalayan region with its manoeuvres in the disputed South China Sea.China claims sovereignty over all of South China Sea. Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims. China is engaged in hotly contested territorial disputes in both the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Beijing has built up and militarised many of the islands and reefs it controls in the region. Both areas are stated to be rich in minerals, oil and other natural resources and are also vital to global trade. "I would assess that India is vigorously defending its northern borders and this is a subject of concern to India," Alice G Wells, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing while responding to a question on China's increased road building activities along the Indian border. "As (India) ahead to its own strategic stability, it certainly helps drive and is a factor in driving closer partnership that we enjoy with India," Wells said in response to a question from Congresswoman Ann Wagner. India and China have clashed repeatedly over territories in the Himalayas. Most recently Chinese and Indian troops faced off on the disputed Doklam plateau between Bhutan and China after the Chinese People's Liberation Army began building roads through the area, Wagner said. "Although both countries backed down, China has quietly resumed its activities in Doklam and neither Bhutan nor India has sought to dissuade it. China's activities in the Himalayas remind me of its south China Sea policies. How should our failure to respond to the militarisation of the South China Sea inform the international response to these Himalayan border disputes?" Wagner asked. Also read: Doklam was a setback, China keen on teaching India a lesson As the US looks to the Indo-Pacific strategy put forward by the Trump administration, Wells said it has been taken in light of the 'South China Sea's Strategy'. "How do we maintain the region to be open, to have maritime security, to not have militarisation that would imperil the 70 per cent of global trade?" she asked. "We need to do that by giving authority to sovereign nations to have choices in how they develop, to have choices in their partnerships," Wells said. Congressman Ted Yoho, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Sub-Committee on Asia and the Pacific, raised the issue of China's aggressive posture in South Asia. "What are your thoughts on what is the best way to counter China in that region?" Yoho asked. US should not be seeking to compete with China dollar for dollar, Wells responded, adding that instead of a state lending on terms that may not be to the benefit of countries or their citizens, the US and its companies are providing USD 850 billion in foreign direct investment in the region, which is far more than what has been injected by China. "We're trying to gather likeminded countries who can bring resources to the table, who can coordinate assistance and an effort so as to provide countries with meaningful alternatives," Wells said. Troops of India and China were locked in a 73-day-long standoff in Doklam from June 16 last year after the Indian side stopped the building of a road in the disputed tri-junction by the Chinese Army. Bhutan and China have a dispute over Doklam. The face-off ended on August 28.

China has quietly resumed its activities in Doklam: Top US official

The West Bengal Assembly on Thursday passed a resolution to change the state's name from West Bengal to 'Bangla'. The resolution will now be forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs.&nbsp;

Once Home Ministry gives green signal, West Bengal will officially be known as 'Bangla'.

The proposal was first mooted in 2016.&nbsp;

Last year, West Bengal cabinet ministers had cleared the proposal to change the state's name to Bangla.&nbsp;

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had suggested that West be named Bangla in Bengali, Bangal in Hindi and Bengal in English. However, the centre had rejected the proposal.

The current proposal is the state will be known as 'Bangla' in all languages.&nbsp;

One of the reasons put forward by the state to support its name change is that West Bengal always appears last in a list of states in alphabetical order.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Once approved by the Home Ministry, West Bengal will officially be known as 'Bangla'.

The West Bengal Assembly on Thursday passed a resolution to change the state's name from West Bengal to 'Bangla'. The resolution will now be forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs. Once Home Ministry gives green signal, West Bengal will officially be known as 'Bangla'. The proposal was first mooted in 2016. Last year, West Bengal cabinet ministers had cleared the proposal to change the state's name to Bangla. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had suggested that West be named Bangla in Bengali, Bangal in Hindi and Bengal in English. However, the centre had rejected the proposal. The current proposal is the state will be known as 'Bangla' in all languages. One of the reasons put forward by the state to support its name change is that West Bengal always appears last in a list of states in alphabetical order.

West Bengal Assembly passes resolution to change state's name to 'Bangla'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold bilateral meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, on the sidelines of <a href="http://wionews.com/world/brics-emerging-economies-meet-as-us-trade-war-looms-154299">10th BRICS Summit in South Africa</a>'s Johannesburg.

According to sources, Triple "TTT" (Trade, Talks and Terrorism) is the key area which will be also raised by India side.

The meeting of Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Jinping comes three months after the informal summit held in China's Wuhan city.

During PM Modi`s visit to China in April, he held delegation-level talks with Chinese President Jinping and underscored the need for strengthening bilateral relations between India and China.

Similarly, Prime Minister Modi in May held a day-long informal summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Russia's Sochi, during the meet the two leaders vowed to strengthen their relationship and work towards a strong multipolar world.

This was the first meeting between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi this year.

The theme of this year`s summit is, `BRICS in Africa - collaboration for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the 4th industrial revolution`.

Besides Prime Minister Modi, heads of the four other BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa - will take part in the meeting.

All nations are expected to deliberate upon global issues, international peace and security, global governance and trade issues among others.

For the first time, a BRICS leaders'&nbsp;retreat is being organised wherein the leaders will deliberate and take stock of BRICS co-operation during the decade and on its future prospects.

The three-day summit began yesterday with the BRICS Business Forum Meet.

India is likely to sign MoUs in the fields of education, skill, health and agriculture with South Africa.

For the very first time, a BRICS leaders'&nbsp;retreat is being organised wherein the leaders will deliberate and take stock of BRICS co-operation during the decade and on its future prospects.

Prime Minister Modi has reached South Africa last evening on the final leg of his three-nation visit to Africa. He had earlier visited Rwanda and Uganda.

Besides Prime Minister Modi, heads of the four other BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa - will take part in the meeting.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hold bilateral meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, on the sidelines of 10th BRICS Summit in South Africa's Johannesburg. According to sources, Triple "TTT" (Trade, Talks and Terrorism) is the key area which will be also raised by India side. The meeting of Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Jinping comes three months after the informal summit held in China's Wuhan city. During PM Modi`s visit to China in April, he held delegation-level talks with Chinese President Jinping and underscored the need for strengthening bilateral relations between India and China. Similarly, Prime Minister Modi in May held a day-long informal summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Russia's Sochi, during the meet the two leaders vowed to strengthen their relationship and work towards a strong multipolar world. This was the first meeting between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi this year. The theme of this year`s summit is, `BRICS in Africa - collaboration for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the 4th industrial revolution`. Besides Prime Minister Modi, heads of the four other BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa - will take part in the meeting. All nations are expected to deliberate upon global issues, international peace and security, global governance and trade issues among others. For the first time, a BRICS leaders' retreat is being organised wherein the leaders will deliberate and take stock of BRICS co-operation during the decade and on its future prospects. The three-day summit began yesterday with the BRICS Business Forum Meet. India is likely to sign MoUs in the fields of education, skill, health and agriculture with South Africa. For the very first time, a BRICS leaders' retreat is being organised wherein the leaders will deliberate and take stock of BRICS co-operation during the decade and on its future prospects. Prime Minister Modi has reached South Africa last evening on the final leg of his three-nation visit to Africa. He had earlier visited Rwanda and Uganda.

BRICS 2018: PM Modi to hold bilateral meetings with Chinese, Russian Presidents

Speaking on the expected win of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader&nbsp;Imran Khan&nbsp;in the recently-conducted 2018 <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-live-imran-khans-pti-opens-early-lead-sharifs-pml-n-trailing-154638">general elections</a>, Congress leader and former Foreign Minister&nbsp;Shashi Tharoor&nbsp;said that the Indo-Pak relations would not witness turbulent times with the former's victory.

With the poll count for the Pakistan general election underway,&nbsp;PTI is leading in 117 seats across Pakistan with PML-N ahead in 65 seats.&nbsp;PPP continues to lead in 43 seats.

Talking to ANI, Tharoor said, "We have seen two faces of Imran, one as a hardliner for the electorate and other as liberal which we saw in London and New Delhi. So, it cannot necessarily be turbulent weather for Indo-Pak relations."

He further said, "I think it was completely predictable. For the last year also we have been hearing that the military wants a change, they want to get rid of Nawaz Sharif and his party and that they see&nbsp;Imran Khan&nbsp;as the most pliable potential."

He, however, admitted that&nbsp;Imran Khan&nbsp;would have to depend on other independent candidates and small parties, along with Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal which will follow the instructions from the military.

He said, "Imran is the largest single party but without majority by himself. He'll depend on independents & small parties' support, almost certainly Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA) - which will follow military instructions which means if he does things military considers out of line, support can be pulled."

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf(PTI) chief<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-key-events-in-pakistani-cricket-hero-turned-politicians-life-154657"> Imran Khan</a> has won his National Assembly seat from Lahore in Mianwali quite handsomely, Pakistani media reports said.

The&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/decoding-imran-khan-from-flamboyant-cricketer-to-hardline-politician-154591">cricketer-turned-politician won</a>&nbsp;the seat after garnering 127,530 votes, beating his nearest rival PML-N candidate Abdullah Khan who won just 49,532 votes.

Imran Khan also won the Islamabad 2 seat with 92,891 votes beating former Pakistan PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi who won 44,314 votes.&nbsp;

Cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party is leading in 117 seats in the 11th general elections of Pakistan, Samaa TV reported citing unofficial results.

Speaking on the expected win of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan in the recently-conducted 2018 general elections, Congress leader and former Foreign Minister Shashi Tharoor said that the Indo-Pak relations would not witness turbulent times with the former's victory. With the poll count for the Pakistan general election underway, PTI is leading in 117 seats across Pakistan with PML-N ahead in 65 seats. PPP continues to lead in 43 seats. Talking to ANI, Tharoor said, "We have seen two faces of Imran, one as a hardliner for the electorate and other as liberal which we saw in London and New Delhi. So, it cannot necessarily be turbulent weather for Indo-Pak relations." He further said, "I think it was completely predictable. For the last year also we have been hearing that the military wants a change, they want to get rid of Nawaz Sharif and his party and that they see Imran Khan as the most pliable potential." He, however, admitted that Imran Khan would have to depend on other independent candidates and small parties, along with Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal which will follow the instructions from the military. He said, "Imran is the largest single party but without majority by himself. He'll depend on independents & small parties' support, almost certainly Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA) - which will follow military instructions which means if he does things military considers out of line, support can be pulled." Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf(PTI) chief Imran Khan has won his National Assembly seat from Lahore in Mianwali quite handsomely, Pakistani media reports said. The cricketer-turned-politician won the seat after garnering 127,530 votes, beating his nearest rival PML-N candidate Abdullah Khan who won just 49,532 votes. Imran Khan also won the Islamabad 2 seat with 92,891 votes beating former Pakistan PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi who won 44,314 votes.

Indo-Pak relations won't get affected by Imran Khan's win: Shashi Tharoor

The 19th anniversary of&nbsp;Kargil&nbsp;Vijay Diwas is being celebrated on Thursday. The day marks India's victory over&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;in the 1999&nbsp;Kargil&nbsp;War and remembers those who sacrificed their lives for the country.

On 26th July 1999, India successfully took command of the high outposts, which had been lost to&nbsp;Pakistani intruders. The war was fought for more than 60 days.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in paying homage to the martyrs of Kargil.

"On Kargil Vijay Diwas, every Indian acknowledges the efforts and gallantry of our Armed Forces. We salute the ultimate sacrifice of the martyrs of Kargil, and record our everlasting debt to their families," the president said.

Vice President Naidu said he saluted the valour, courage and sacrifice of the brave jawans that resulted in a "spectacular victory for our country in the Kargil War in 1999".

"Vijay Diwas helps in reminding our countrymen of the bravery of soldiers who are all the time alert in extremely difficult situations and environment in defence of our country and for the safety and security our lives," he tweeted.

Prime Minister Modi said a grateful nation pays homage to all those who served the nation during Operation Vijay and remembered former prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee for the leadership provided by him during the operation.

"Our brave soldiers ensured that India remains protected and gave a befitting answer to those who tried to vitiate the atmosphere of peace.

"India will always remember with pride, the outstanding political leadership provided by Atal Ji during Operation Vijay. He led from the front, supported our armed forces and clearly articulated Indias stand at the world stage," he said on Twitter.

The three-day celebrations began on Tuesday at the Drass War Memorial in&nbsp;Kargil&nbsp;town in Jammu and Kashmir. On the first day, tributes were paid to the War Heroes by laying wreath at the memorial.

On Wednesday, the veterans of the war and serving heroes shared their experiences during the war at a function. There was a briefing on Operation Vijay battles.

Lt. General Ranbir Singh, AVSM, YSM, SM Northern Army Command of the Indian Army paid tribute to martyrs at&nbsp;Kargil&nbsp;War Memorial Drass.

The Army said, "The country celebrates the 19th anniversary of&nbsp;Kargil&nbsp;War. This is also an occasion that invokes feelings of both pain and pride for the families of the brave jawans who laid down their lives protecting the territory of India from intruders."

&nbsp;

On 26th July 1999, India successfully took command of the high outposts, which had been lost to Pakistani intruders. The war was fought for more than 60 days.

The 19th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas is being celebrated on Thursday. The day marks India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil War and remembers those who sacrificed their lives for the country. On 26th July 1999, India successfully took command of the high outposts, which had been lost to Pakistani intruders. The war was fought for more than 60 days. President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in paying homage to the martyrs of Kargil. "On Kargil Vijay Diwas, every Indian acknowledges the efforts and gallantry of our Armed Forces. We salute the ultimate sacrifice of the martyrs of Kargil, and record our everlasting debt to their families," the president said. Vice President Naidu said he saluted the valour, courage and sacrifice of the brave jawans that resulted in a "spectacular victory for our country in the Kargil War in 1999". "Vijay Diwas helps in reminding our countrymen of the bravery of soldiers who are all the time alert in extremely difficult situations and environment in defence of our country and for the safety and security our lives," he tweeted. Prime Minister Modi said a grateful nation pays homage to all those who served the nation during Operation Vijay and remembered former prime minister Atal Behari Vajpayee for the leadership provided by him during the operation. "Our brave soldiers ensured that India remains protected and gave a befitting answer to those who tried to vitiate the atmosphere of peace. "India will always remember with pride, the outstanding political leadership provided by Atal Ji during Operation Vijay. He led from the front, supported our armed forces and clearly articulated Indias stand at the world stage," he said on Twitter. The three-day celebrations began on Tuesday at the Drass War Memorial in Kargil town in Jammu and Kashmir. On the first day, tributes were paid to the War Heroes by laying wreath at the memorial. On Wednesday, the veterans of the war and serving heroes shared their experiences during the war at a function. There was a briefing on Operation Vijay battles. Lt. General Ranbir Singh, AVSM, YSM, SM Northern Army Command of the Indian Army paid tribute to martyrs at Kargil War Memorial Drass. The Army said, "The country celebrates the 19th anniversary of Kargil War. This is also an occasion that invokes feelings of both pain and pride for the families of the brave jawans who laid down their lives protecting the territory of India from intruders."

Watch: Nation pays tribute to martyrs on 19th Kargil Vijay Diwas

The special &nbsp;Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Mumbai on Thursday issued summons against diamond jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi to appear before court or be declared fugitives.

Niram Modi and Mehul Choksi have been asked to appear before the court on September 26 and 27 respectively.&nbsp;

The move comes following reports that Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the multi-crore PNB scam had moved to Antigua from the United States (US) and got a local passport.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had been informed by Antiguan authorities that Choksi arrived there this month and had taken the passport of that country.

The agency had recently moved the court seeking to declare the diamond traders as 'fugitive economic offenders' and to confiscate their assets worth Rs 3,500 crore in the case.

Earlier, the ED had filed two separate applications against the duo before the special court that hears matters under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Parliament yesterday only passed the fugitive bill by a voice vote in the Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha had cleared this Bill on July 19.

The agency, early this month, had moved a similar application against businessman Vijay Mallya in the Rs 9,000-crore alleged bank loan fraud case and the court has summoned him for August 27.

Nirav Modi and Choksi are being investigated by the ED and the CBI after it was detected that they allegedly cheated the Punjab National Bank of more than Rs 13,400 crore with the purported involvement of a few of its employees.

The scam, which reportedly began in 2011, was detected in January this year, after which PNB officials reported it to the probe agencies.

Niram Modi and Mehul Choksi have been asked to appear before the court on September 26 and 27 respectively.

The special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Mumbai on Thursday issued summons against diamond jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi to appear before court or be declared fugitives. Niram Modi and Mehul Choksi have been asked to appear before the court on September 26 and 27 respectively. The move comes following reports that Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the multi-crore PNB scam had moved to Antigua from the United States (US) and got a local passport. Reportedly, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had been informed by Antiguan authorities that Choksi arrived there this month and had taken the passport of that country. The agency had recently moved the court seeking to declare the diamond traders as 'fugitive economic offenders' and to confiscate their assets worth Rs 3,500 crore in the case. Earlier, the ED had filed two separate applications against the duo before the special court that hears matters under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Parliament yesterday only passed the fugitive bill by a voice vote in the Rajya Sabha. The Lok Sabha had cleared this Bill on July 19. The agency, early this month, had moved a similar application against businessman Vijay Mallya in the Rs 9,000-crore alleged bank loan fraud case and the court has summoned him for August 27. Nirav Modi and Choksi are being investigated by the ED and the CBI after it was detected that they allegedly cheated the Punjab National Bank of more than Rs 13,400 crore with the purported involvement of a few of its employees. The scam, which reportedly began in 2011, was detected in January this year, after which PNB officials reported it to the probe agencies.

Nirav Modi, Choksi summoned, asked to appear before court or be declared fugitives

A child is a gift from god and every Hindu should have at least five, two for the man, two for the woman and one surplus, BJP's controversial Uttar Pradesh MLA Surendra Singh has said.

Hindus will become a minority if there is "no balance" in population control, the legislator from Bairia, who earlier this month said rape cannot be curbed even if Lord Ram descends on earth, told reporters last night.

"Hindus should have at least five children. Two for the man, two for the woman and one surplus. Giving birth to a child is 'prasad' (gift) from God. India can become strong, when Hindus are strong. When Hindu is weak, India is weak...," Singh said.

According to him, the Hindu community should be concerned that they will become a minority if there is "no balance in population control" and have more children.

"Hindus will be a minority, not due to terrorists but due to themselves," he said.

Singh's statements have often put the state's ruling BJP in an embarrassing spot.

After the Kairana Lok Sabha and Noorpur assembly bypolls earlier this year, he blamed ministers in the Yogi Adityanath government for the party's humiliating defeat in both places.

"The BJP government has not been able to give a transparent government," the MLA had said.

He had also endorsed the view of senior JD(U) leader K C Tyagi that the rising prices of petrol and diesel were responsible for the BJP's defeat in the by-elections.

Before that, Singh had said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections would be an "Islam vs Bhagwan" battle.

According to him, the Hindu community should be concerned that they will become a minority if there is 'no balance in population control' and have more children.

A child is a gift from god and every Hindu should have at least five, two for the man, two for the woman and one surplus, BJP's controversial Uttar Pradesh MLA Surendra Singh has said. Hindus will become a minority if there is "no balance" in population control, the legislator from Bairia, who earlier this month said rape cannot be curbed even if Lord Ram descends on earth, told reporters last night. "Hindus should have at least five children. Two for the man, two for the woman and one surplus. Giving birth to a child is 'prasad' (gift) from God. India can become strong, when Hindus are strong. When Hindu is weak, India is weak...," Singh said. According to him, the Hindu community should be concerned that they will become a minority if there is "no balance in population control" and have more children. "Hindus will be a minority, not due to terrorists but due to themselves," he said. Singh's statements have often put the state's ruling BJP in an embarrassing spot. After the Kairana Lok Sabha and Noorpur assembly bypolls earlier this year, he blamed ministers in the Yogi Adityanath government for the party's humiliating defeat in both places. "The BJP government has not been able to give a transparent government," the MLA had said. He had also endorsed the view of senior JD(U) leader K C Tyagi that the rising prices of petrol and diesel were responsible for the BJP's defeat in the by-elections. Before that, Singh had said the 2019 Lok Sabha elections would be an "Islam vs Bhagwan" battle.

Children are 'prasad', every Hindu should have at least five: BJP MLA

The Delhi Police has written to the CBI for conducting a psychological autopsy of the 11 members of the Chundawat family, who were found dead at their residence in north Delhi's Burari, officials said on Thursday.&nbsp

The police have approached the CBI's Central Forensic Science Laboratory to form a panel of psychologists to analyse the psyche of the deceased.

A psychological autopsy attempts to study a deceased person's mental state by analysing medical records, interviewing friends and family and conducting research into their state of mind prior to death, the police said.

Ten of the 11 members of the deceased family were found hanging from an iron-mesh in the ceiling of the house, while the body of 77-year-old Narayan Devi, the head of the family, was lying on the floor in another room of the house.

Her daughter Pratibha (57) and her two sons - Bhavnesh (50) and Lalit (45) - were among the deceased.

Bhavnesh's wife Savita (48) and their three children - Maneka (23), Neetu (25), and Dhirendra (15) were also found dead.

Others who were found hanging were Lalit's wife Tina (42), their 15-year-old son Dushyant and Pratibha's daughter Priyanka, who was engaged last month and was to marry by the year-end.

The police have approached the CBI's Central Forensic Science Laboratory to form a panel of psychologists to analyse the psyche of the deceased.

The Delhi Police has written to the CBI for conducting a psychological autopsy of the 11 members of the Chundawat family, who were found dead at their residence in north Delhi's Burari, officials said on Thursday. The police have approached the CBI's Central Forensic Science Laboratory to form a panel of psychologists to analyse the psyche of the deceased. A psychological autopsy attempts to study a deceased person's mental state by analysing medical records, interviewing friends and family and conducting research into their state of mind prior to death, the police said. Ten of the 11 members of the deceased family were found hanging from an iron-mesh in the ceiling of the house, while the body of 77-year-old Narayan Devi, the head of the family, was lying on the floor in another room of the house. Her daughter Pratibha (57) and her two sons - Bhavnesh (50) and Lalit (45) - were among the deceased. Bhavnesh's wife Savita (48) and their three children - Maneka (23), Neetu (25), and Dhirendra (15) were also found dead. Others who were found hanging were Lalit's wife Tina (42), their 15-year-old son Dushyant and Pratibha's daughter Priyanka, who was engaged last month and was to marry by the year-end.

Burari deaths: Delhi Police asks CBI to conduct psychological autopsy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday landed in South Africa to take part in the 10th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.

The Prime Minister landed at the Air Force base of Waterkloof today. PM Modi is expected to speak at the summit.&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/we-should-be-resolute-in-rejecting-unilateralism-xi-jinping-at-brics-opening-ceremony-154600">Chinese President Xi at the opening ceremony</a>&nbsp;said there would be no winner in a global trade war. He urged fellow developing powers on Wednesday to reject unilateralism in the wake of tariff threats by US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

"We should be resolute in rejecting unilateralism," Xi said at the opening ceremony.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
After successful bilateral visits to Rwanda and Uganda, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> landed in South Africa to take part in the BRICS Summit. <a href="https://t.co/GrzngIrPRM">pic.twitter.com/GrzngIrPRM</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1022124489310720000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Russian President Vladimir and Brazilian President Michel Temer will also be in&nbsp;attendance&nbsp;along with several African leaders.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Good evening South Africa! PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> arrives at Waterkloof air base to a warm welcome. PM will attend the 10th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRICS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRICS</a> Summit and related meetings in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Johannesburg?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Johannesburg</a> and will have several bilateral meetings on the sidelines. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaatBRICS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaatBRICS</a> <a href="https://t.co/FFtZvpe67f">pic.twitter.com/FFtZvpe67f</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1022131532713132032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The theme of this year's summit is 'BRICS in Africa: Collaboration for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the fourth industrial revolution'.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
This year's theme for BRICS summit in Africa is cooperation for inclusive growth, & sharing the benefits of the fourth industrial revolution. BRICS is another medium for India for making strong relations with South Africa: Dr KJ Srinivasa, Consul General of India to Johannesburg <a href="https://t.co/WHcImd2t80">pic.twitter.com/WHcImd2t80</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1022098352622714881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC), set up by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, in a statement, said that the theme for the Summit is focused on strengthening the relationship between BRICS and Africa.

The BRICS leaders will also interact with African leaders on July 27 to discuss the "inclusive growth" and "shared prosperity" in the region.

The heads of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa are all set to meet in Johannesburg for the 10th BRICS summit, to be held from July 25 to July 27.

Prime Minister Modi first visited Rwanda on Monday as part of his five-day official tour. He held a one-on-one meeting and delegation level talks with President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame and interacted with the Indian community.

India and Rwanda signed eight agreements in an effort to bolster bilateral cooperation.

Later on Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi held delegation-level talks with President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni. He said India will continue to play a stable partner in the country's journey towards development. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Prime Minister landed at the Air Force base of Waterkloof today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday landed in South Africa to take part in the 10th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. The Prime Minister landed at the Air Force base of Waterkloof today. PM Modi is expected to speak at the summit. Chinese President Xi at the opening ceremony said there would be no winner in a global trade war. He urged fellow developing powers on Wednesday to reject unilateralism in the wake of tariff threats by US President Donald Trump, Reuters reported. "We should be resolute in rejecting unilateralism," Xi said at the opening ceremony. After successful bilateral visits to Rwanda and Uganda, PM @narendramodi landed in South Africa to take part in the BRICS Summit. pic.twitter.com/GrzngIrPRM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) July 25, 2018 × Russian President Vladimir and Brazilian President Michel Temer will also be in attendance along with several African leaders. Good evening South Africa! PM @narendramodi arrives at Waterkloof air base to a warm welcome. PM will attend the 10th #BRICS Summit and related meetings in #Johannesburg and will have several bilateral meetings on the sidelines. #IndiaatBRICS pic.twitter.com/FFtZvpe67f — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) July 25, 2018 × The theme of this year's summit is 'BRICS in Africa: Collaboration for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the fourth industrial revolution'. This year's theme for BRICS summit in Africa is cooperation for inclusive growth, & sharing the benefits of the fourth industrial revolution. BRICS is another medium for India for making strong relations with South Africa: Dr KJ Srinivasa, Consul General of India to Johannesburg pic.twitter.com/WHcImd2t80 — ANI (@ANI) July 25, 2018 × The Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC), set up by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, in a statement, said that the theme for the Summit is focused on strengthening the relationship between BRICS and Africa. The BRICS leaders will also interact with African leaders on July 27 to discuss the "inclusive growth" and "shared prosperity" in the region. The heads of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa are all set to meet in Johannesburg for the 10th BRICS summit, to be held from July 25 to July 27. Prime Minister Modi first visited Rwanda on Monday as part of his five-day official tour. He held a one-on-one meeting and delegation level talks with President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame and interacted with the Indian community. India and Rwanda signed eight agreements in an effort to bolster bilateral cooperation. Later on Tuesday, Prime Minister Modi held delegation-level talks with President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni. He said India will continue to play a stable partner in the country's journey towards development.

BRICS 2018: China's Xi says 'no winner' in trade war, PM Modi to attend summit

With army-backed Imran Khan tipped to be the next Prime Minister of Pakistan, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy, on Thursday, expressed apprehension that Pakistan may now carry out a war against India.

Speaking to ANI, Swamy said, "Let us (India) prepare for the possibility that Pakistan may carry out war by miscalculation. We should be ready to finish Pakistan and break it into four and look for that opportunity."

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan is surging firmly ahead after Wednesday's elections, but the results are being disputed by candidates and politcal observers as rigged in favour of Khan.

Swamy said, "It's good because he (Imran Khan) is a puppet. It's better to be known as a puppet than pretend not to be a puppet like Nawaz Sharif. They are all puppets. All civilian politicians in Pakistan are puppets of the ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), military and the Taliban."

This is the second time in Pakistan's 70-year history that the power is transferring from one civilian government to another. Yet, the whole election process remained impaired.

As many as 122 parties fielded candidates, many of who belonged to extremist organisations.

There were attacks on candidates and campaign rallies. More than 150 people were killed when a powerful bomb went off in Mastung in the restive province of Balochistan earlier this month.&nbsp;

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan is surging firmly ahead after Wednesday's elections, but the results are being disputed by candidates and politcal observers as rigged in favour of Khan.

With army-backed Imran Khan tipped to be the next Prime Minister of Pakistan, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy, on Thursday, expressed apprehension that Pakistan may now carry out a war against India. Speaking to ANI, Swamy said, "Let us (India) prepare for the possibility that Pakistan may carry out war by miscalculation. We should be ready to finish Pakistan and break it into four and look for that opportunity." Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan is surging firmly ahead after Wednesday's elections, but the results are being disputed by candidates and politcal observers as rigged in favour of Khan. Swamy said, "It's good because he (Imran Khan) is a puppet. It's better to be known as a puppet than pretend not to be a puppet like Nawaz Sharif. They are all puppets. All civilian politicians in Pakistan are puppets of the ISI (Inter-Services Intelligence), military and the Taliban." This is the second time in Pakistan's 70-year history that the power is transferring from one civilian government to another. Yet, the whole election process remained impaired. As many as 122 parties fielded candidates, many of who belonged to extremist organisations. There were attacks on candidates and campaign rallies. More than 150 people were killed when a powerful bomb went off in Mastung in the restive province of Balochistan earlier this month.

India should be ready to break Pakistan into four:  Subramanian Swamy

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday granted interim protection from arrest to Union minister P Chidambaram till August 1 in connection with the INX Media case.&nbsp;

The apex court said yesterday that it would hear a plea by former Union minister P Chidambaram, seeking anticipatory bail in the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) money-laundering case related to INX Media.&nbsp;

Today, the ED opposed the anticipatory bail, saying that 'the son (Karti) was instrumental in getting illegal FIPB approvals with the concurrence and knowledge of the father.'

ED has also opposed his anticipatory bail plea in another case relating to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in relation to the Aircel-Maxis case and "it cannot be ruled out that the ED may also summon him and/or illegally arrest him even without issuing summons".

The plea claimed that 72-year-old Chidambaram apprehends arrest because of the circumstances under which the ED has arrested chartered accountant S Bhaskararaman in the case and the CBI had arrested his son Karti Chidambaram.

A trial court here had yesterday granted protection from arrest till August 7 to Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis case in which he and his son Karti Chidambaram were named in the chargesheet filed by the CBI recently.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on July 19 filed a fresh charge-sheet in the Aircel-Maxis case in a Delhi Court against 18 accused, including Chidambaram, his son, Karti, and select government officials (serving and retired).

In its new charge-sheet, the CBI said that two sets of money trails were discovered regarding Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance.

The Aircel-Maxis deal case, which emerged out of 2G spectrum cases, pertains to a FIPB clearance, granted to firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd for investment in Aircel.

The ED had earlier said that the FIPB approval granted in 2006 by Chidambaram was beyond his mandate as he was only authorised to accord approval on project proposals up to Rs 600 crore.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Delhi High Court grants interim protection from arrest to P. Chidambaram till August 1 in INX Media Case. <a href="https://t.co/hL7ML5j08H">pic.twitter.com/hL7ML5j08H</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1022010737609396224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The ED opposed the anticipatory bail, saying that 'the son (Karti) was instrumental in getting illegal FIPB approvals with the concurrence and knowledge of the father.'

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday granted interim protection from arrest to Union minister P Chidambaram till August 1 in connection with the INX Media case. The apex court said yesterday that it would hear a plea by former Union minister P Chidambaram, seeking anticipatory bail in the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) money-laundering case related to INX Media. Today, the ED opposed the anticipatory bail, saying that 'the son (Karti) was instrumental in getting illegal FIPB approvals with the concurrence and knowledge of the father.' ED has also opposed his anticipatory bail plea in another case relating to the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in relation to the Aircel-Maxis case and "it cannot be ruled out that the ED may also summon him and/or illegally arrest him even without issuing summons". The plea claimed that 72-year-old Chidambaram apprehends arrest because of the circumstances under which the ED has arrested chartered accountant S Bhaskararaman in the case and the CBI had arrested his son Karti Chidambaram. A trial court here had yesterday granted protection from arrest till August 7 to Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis case in which he and his son Karti Chidambaram were named in the chargesheet filed by the CBI recently. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on July 19 filed a fresh charge-sheet in the Aircel-Maxis case in a Delhi Court against 18 accused, including Chidambaram, his son, Karti, and select government officials (serving and retired). In its new charge-sheet, the CBI said that two sets of money trails were discovered regarding Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance. The Aircel-Maxis deal case, which emerged out of 2G spectrum cases, pertains to a FIPB clearance, granted to firm M/S Global Communication Holding Services Ltd for investment in Aircel. The ED had earlier said that the FIPB approval granted in 2006 by Chidambaram was beyond his mandate as he was only authorised to accord approval on project proposals up to Rs 600 crore. Delhi High Court grants interim protection from arrest to P. Chidambaram till August 1 in INX Media Case. pic.twitter.com/hL7ML5j08H — ANI (@ANI) July 25, 2018 ×

INX media case: Court grants Chidambaram protection from arrest

The Congress party is looking to cobble up alliances with various parties in states to prevent the BJP from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-can-win-3-times-more-seats-in-2019-chidambaram-153599">coming back to power</a> in 2019.

Giving a hint about the party's strategy, top Congress sources said that the key to defeat BJP is an alliance in Bihar and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/alliance-with-congress-depends-on-seat-share-mayawati-154133">Uttar Pradesh</a>, which together have the largest number of Lok Sabha seats. "If the Congress is able to form anti-BJP alliances in these states, it will restrict BJP to 220-230 and it won't be able to form the government," sources said.

While Uttar Pradesh has 80 Lok Sabha seats, Bihar has 40 and the two together comprise over 22 per cent of the total strength of Lok Sabha members of 543.

Stating that it's going to be an "ideological fight", the sources said the Congress has to bring all the opposition parties together to defeat the BJP. They added that the Congress does not believe in "right or left" views but for a liberal and pragmatic space.

According to the sources, the Congress leadership is of the view that the BJP will be decimated without any "anger and disrespect".

Noting that the Congress is focussing on increasing women's representation in the party, the sources said women leaders will be appointed in general secretary level posts after they gain experience at different levels of party functioning.

The sources also gave indications that party president Rahul Gandhi is not averse to accepting a nominee for the top post from any opposition alliance who does not have the backing of the RSS.

On whether Rahul will step aside for a woman candidate from a possible opposition alliance, the sources said he "is comfortable seeing any prime minister other than an RSS-backed one".

After the meeting of the Congress Working committee (CWC) on Sunday, the Congress said Rahul Gandhi will be its prime ministerial face for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. It also authorised Rahul Gandhi to forge alliances with "like-minded" political parties to take on the ruling BJP.

On whether Rahul will step aside for a woman candidate from a possible opposition alliance, the sources said he "is comfortable seeing any prime minister other than an RSS-backed one".

The Congress party is looking to cobble up alliances with various parties in states to prevent the BJP from coming back to power in 2019. Giving a hint about the party's strategy, top Congress sources said that the key to defeat BJP is an alliance in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, which together have the largest number of Lok Sabha seats. "If the Congress is able to form anti-BJP alliances in these states, it will restrict BJP to 220-230 and it won't be able to form the government," sources said. While Uttar Pradesh has 80 Lok Sabha seats, Bihar has 40 and the two together comprise over 22 per cent of the total strength of Lok Sabha members of 543. Stating that it's going to be an "ideological fight", the sources said the Congress has to bring all the opposition parties together to defeat the BJP. They added that the Congress does not believe in "right or left" views but for a liberal and pragmatic space. According to the sources, the Congress leadership is of the view that the BJP will be decimated without any "anger and disrespect". Noting that the Congress is focussing on increasing women's representation in the party, the sources said women leaders will be appointed in general secretary level posts after they gain experience at different levels of party functioning. The sources also gave indications that party president Rahul Gandhi is not averse to accepting a nominee for the top post from any opposition alliance who does not have the backing of the RSS. On whether Rahul will step aside for a woman candidate from a possible opposition alliance, the sources said he "is comfortable seeing any prime minister other than an RSS-backed one". After the meeting of the Congress Working committee (CWC) on Sunday, the Congress said Rahul Gandhi will be its prime ministerial face for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. It also authorised Rahul Gandhi to forge alliances with "like-minded" political parties to take on the ruling BJP.

Anti-BJP alliances in Bihar, UP will stop BJP in 2019; Rahul open to back others as PM: Congress sources

Top WhatsApp executives, including COO Matthew Idema, have met IT Secretary and other Indian government officials to outline steps the company has initiated to combat circulation of fake messages on the platform that have even incited mob lynching incidents.

According to government sources, Idema met IT Secretary Ajay Prakash Sawhney yesterday to discuss steps being taken by the Facebook-owned company to tackle fake news.&nbsp;

The company's proposed payments service -- that is awaiting government nod -- also came up for discussion, they added.

When contacted, a WhatsApp spokesperson said: "Over the past week, WhatsApp has met with a broad range of digital literacy experts, business leaders, and government representatives to discuss India's growing connected society and the importance of private end-to-end encrypted messaging".&nbsp;

The spokesperson added that the "challenge of misinformation requires action from government, civil society, and technology companies" and that the company would engage with various stakeholders to tackle these problems.

WhatsApp had previously stated that it had launched new safety features, including a label that clearly identifies forwarded messages and controls for group conversations in the last few weeks.&nbsp;

WhatsApp has already been slapped with two notices from the Indian government, asking it to come out with effective solutions to curb the menace of fake news beyond just labelling forwards.&nbsp;

It also warned the company that mediums used for propagation of rumours are liable to be treated as 'abettors' and can face legal consequences if they remain "mute spectators".

WhatsApp had responded to the first notice but is yet to send in a response to the second one.

The company had expressed its inability to prevent spam because it cannot see the content of private, encrypted messages. Blocking, therefore, can be done only based on user reports, it had said.

WhatsApp is also working with over half a dozen partners in India to design a digital literacy programme for educating users on spotting false news and staying safe on the popular messaging platform.

It has also brought out full-page advertisements in leading newspapers, first in the series of its user awareness campaign, giving "easy tips" to decide if the information received is indeed true.

WhatsApp officials have also engaged with the Election Commission (EC) and assured them that it will take various steps ahead of polls to prevent the misuse of its platform, and bring to India its fake news verification model 'Verificado' that has been used in other markets like Brazil and Mexico.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WhatsApp had responded to the first notice but is yet to send in a response to the second one.

Top WhatsApp executives, including COO Matthew Idema, have met IT Secretary and other Indian government officials to outline steps the company has initiated to combat circulation of fake messages on the platform that have even incited mob lynching incidents. According to government sources, Idema met IT Secretary Ajay Prakash Sawhney yesterday to discuss steps being taken by the Facebook-owned company to tackle fake news. The company's proposed payments service -- that is awaiting government nod -- also came up for discussion, they added. When contacted, a WhatsApp spokesperson said: "Over the past week, WhatsApp has met with a broad range of digital literacy experts, business leaders, and government representatives to discuss India's growing connected society and the importance of private end-to-end encrypted messaging". The spokesperson added that the "challenge of misinformation requires action from government, civil society, and technology companies" and that the company would engage with various stakeholders to tackle these problems. WhatsApp had previously stated that it had launched new safety features, including a label that clearly identifies forwarded messages and controls for group conversations in the last few weeks. WhatsApp has already been slapped with two notices from the Indian government, asking it to come out with effective solutions to curb the menace of fake news beyond just labelling forwards. It also warned the company that mediums used for propagation of rumours are liable to be treated as 'abettors' and can face legal consequences if they remain "mute spectators". WhatsApp had responded to the first notice but is yet to send in a response to the second one. The company had expressed its inability to prevent spam because it cannot see the content of private, encrypted messages. Blocking, therefore, can be done only based on user reports, it had said. WhatsApp is also working with over half a dozen partners in India to design a digital literacy programme for educating users on spotting false news and staying safe on the popular messaging platform. It has also brought out full-page advertisements in leading newspapers, first in the series of its user awareness campaign, giving "easy tips" to decide if the information received is indeed true. WhatsApp officials have also engaged with the Election Commission (EC) and assured them that it will take various steps ahead of polls to prevent the misuse of its platform, and bring to India its fake news verification model 'Verificado' that has been used in other markets like Brazil and Mexico.

Lynching: WhatsApp COO apprises govt of steps taken to curb fake news

Ahead of the meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Bejing has suggested "China-India plus one" or "China-India plus X" cooperation model.

"We hope that the two sides will follow through on the consensus between the two leaders to vigorously explore 'China-India plus one'&nbsp;or 'China-India plus X'&nbsp;cooperation to achieve mutual benefits and win-win outcomes between China and India and other countries, and jointly make contributions to promoting regional and world peace, stability, development and prosperity,"&nbsp;China's foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang noted.

The comments come at a time of growing camaraderie between India and China.

This will be the third meeting between PM Modi and President XI in four months. In April, both met for the informal summit in Wuhan, they later met again in Qingdao on the sidelines of SCO summit and will now meet on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. China hopes the third meeting will showcase "the positive momentum in China-India relations".

Interestingly, both the leaders were hosted by Rwanda earlier this week. Both PM Modi and President Xi are currently on visits to Africa. The comments come at a time when China is also trying to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-seeks-bhutan-border-cooperation-after-india-spat-154137">engage with Bhutan</a>.

In the highest-level interaction between China and Bhutan since the Doklam incident, China's Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou was on a visit to Thimpu from July 22&nbsp;to 24. During his visit to Bhutan, he called on the king of Bhutan, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Foreign Minister Damcho Dorji and held talks with the Foreign Secretary. Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui accompanied him during the visit.&nbsp;

According to China's foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang, the two sides exchanged in-depth views on the "China-Bhutan relations and border issues and reached common understandings".&nbsp;

The visit comes months before Bhutan goes to the polls and can be seen as China reaching out to Bhutan. China and Bhutan do not have formal diplomatic ties.

'We hope that the two sides will follow through on the consensus between the two leaders to vigorously explore 'China-India plus one' or 'China-India plus X' cooperation to achieve mutual benefits and win-win outcomes...' China's foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said

Ahead of the meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Bejing has suggested "China-India plus one" or "China-India plus X" cooperation model. "We hope that the two sides will follow through on the consensus between the two leaders to vigorously explore 'China-India plus one' or 'China-India plus X' cooperation to achieve mutual benefits and win-win outcomes between China and India and other countries, and jointly make contributions to promoting regional and world peace, stability, development and prosperity," China's foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang noted. The comments come at a time of growing camaraderie between India and China. This will be the third meeting between PM Modi and President XI in four months. In April, both met for the informal summit in Wuhan, they later met again in Qingdao on the sidelines of SCO summit and will now meet on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. China hopes the third meeting will showcase "the positive momentum in China-India relations". Interestingly, both the leaders were hosted by Rwanda earlier this week. Both PM Modi and President Xi are currently on visits to Africa. The comments come at a time when China is also trying to engage with Bhutan. In the highest-level interaction between China and Bhutan since the Doklam incident, China's Vice Foreign Minister Kong Xuanyou was on a visit to Thimpu from July 22 to 24. During his visit to Bhutan, he called on the king of Bhutan, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Foreign Minister Damcho Dorji and held talks with the Foreign Secretary. Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui accompanied him during the visit. According to China's foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang, the two sides exchanged in-depth views on the "China-Bhutan relations and border issues and reached common understandings". The visit comes months before Bhutan goes to the polls and can be seen as China reaching out to Bhutan. China and Bhutan do not have formal diplomatic ties.

Ahead of Modi-Xi meet in South Africa, Bejing moots 'China-India plus one' cooperation model

Billionaire Anil Ambani has written to Congress President Rahul Gandhi refuting allegations of his Reliance Group lacking experience to get the Rafale fighter jet deal and said the government had no role in French Group Dassault picking up his company as a local partner.

In a two-page letter written on December 12, 2017, Ambani explained to Gandhi, who has been attacking the government over the Rafale deal, why his Reliance Group bagged the multi-billion dollar project.

Invoking his family's "respectful relationship" with the Gandhi family over generations, Ambani said he was "personally saddened" by the "unfortunate statements" against him and his group by several functionaries of the Congress party.

"Not only do we have the necessary experience but we are also the leaders in several important areas of defense manufacture," he said in the letter written on the last day of campaigning for the Gujarat assembly polls that was marked by political mud-slinging over the Rafale fighter jet deal.

He said Reliance Defence has the largest shipyard in the private sector at Pipavav in Gujarat and is currently building five Naval Offshore Patrol Vessels (NOPVs) for the Indian Navy and 14 Fast Patrol Vessels for the Indian Coast Guard.

"The decision of the Government of India to purchase 36 Rafale fighter jets from France was made through an inter-governmental agreement signed between the two countries.

"Also, all these 36 aircraft are being manufactured in France and will be delivered on a 'fly away' basis from Dassault manufacturing facilities in France to the Indian Air Force and no Indian company has any role to play," he said.

Dassault choose Reliance Group as its joint venture partner to meet the 'offset' or export obligation component of the deal and this was "an independent agreement between two corporate private sector entities, and Governments had no role to play in this matter," he wrote.

Gandhi has been attacking the government on the deal which he claims was inked at a much higher price than the one the previous UPA regime had negotiated. Last week during the debate on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha, he accused the government of changing the deal to benefit "one businessman".

Ambani, in the letter, said his group's joint venture with Dassault was to make components and systems primarily for the aerospace and defence sectors.

"This joint venture with Dassault Aviation will lead to creation of thousands of jobs in India, imparting of valuable training and skill-sets to Indian engineers in aerospace/ defence manufacturing sector, and will also provide large scale business opportunities to hundreds of MSMEs, SMEs and start-ups in the country, and will further enhance our experience and skills," he wrote.

Also, Dassault would significantly contribute to high technology transfer and enhance overall defence manufacturing experience.

Ambani said his father Dhirubhai built the world's largest integrated petrochemicals and refinery complex in India without even having a formal education, much less any experience or legacy.

"In his words, 'you have to be given an opportunity to perform. It's not experience but the mindset, dedication, and the purpose, of a strong India that should engage us all'," he wrote, adding that the facts he has brought out would be "helpful" to Gandhi.

Similar letters also went to other senior Congress leaders, including the party's communication department in-charge Randeep Surjewala.

In his letter, Ambani asserted that not only did his firm have the experience but "we are also the leaders in several important areas of defence manufacture".

He said statements by Congress leaders have saddened him.

"I fully appreciate that in the midst of the heat and dust of political campaigning, as in the recent context of elections in Gujarat, a lot has often been said.&nbsp

"Nonetheless, considering that my entire family and I, starting with my respected father, have had the privilege of enjoying a very respectful relationship with the Gandhi family over generations as well as the Congress party for the past more than four decades, these statements have saddened and hurt our sentiments," he said in the letter.

Invoking his family's 'respectful relationship' with the Gandhi family over generations, Ambani said he was 'personally saddened' by the "unfortunate statements" against him and his group by several functionaries of the Congress party

Billionaire Anil Ambani has written to Congress President Rahul Gandhi refuting allegations of his Reliance Group lacking experience to get the Rafale fighter jet deal and said the government had no role in French Group Dassault picking up his company as a local partner. In a two-page letter written on December 12, 2017, Ambani explained to Gandhi, who has been attacking the government over the Rafale deal, why his Reliance Group bagged the multi-billion dollar project. Invoking his family's "respectful relationship" with the Gandhi family over generations, Ambani said he was "personally saddened" by the "unfortunate statements" against him and his group by several functionaries of the Congress party. "Not only do we have the necessary experience but we are also the leaders in several important areas of defense manufacture," he said in the letter written on the last day of campaigning for the Gujarat assembly polls that was marked by political mud-slinging over the Rafale fighter jet deal. He said Reliance Defence has the largest shipyard in the private sector at Pipavav in Gujarat and is currently building five Naval Offshore Patrol Vessels (NOPVs) for the Indian Navy and 14 Fast Patrol Vessels for the Indian Coast Guard. "The decision of the Government of India to purchase 36 Rafale fighter jets from France was made through an inter-governmental agreement signed between the two countries. "Also, all these 36 aircraft are being manufactured in France and will be delivered on a 'fly away' basis from Dassault manufacturing facilities in France to the Indian Air Force and no Indian company has any role to play," he said. Dassault choose Reliance Group as its joint venture partner to meet the 'offset' or export obligation component of the deal and this was "an independent agreement between two corporate private sector entities, and Governments had no role to play in this matter," he wrote. Gandhi has been attacking the government on the deal which he claims was inked at a much higher price than the one the previous UPA regime had negotiated. Last week during the debate on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha, he accused the government of changing the deal to benefit "one businessman". Ambani, in the letter, said his group's joint venture with Dassault was to make components and systems primarily for the aerospace and defence sectors. "This joint venture with Dassault Aviation will lead to creation of thousands of jobs in India, imparting of valuable training and skill-sets to Indian engineers in aerospace/ defence manufacturing sector, and will also provide large scale business opportunities to hundreds of MSMEs, SMEs and start-ups in the country, and will further enhance our experience and skills," he wrote. Also, Dassault would significantly contribute to high technology transfer and enhance overall defence manufacturing experience. Ambani said his father Dhirubhai built the world's largest integrated petrochemicals and refinery complex in India without even having a formal education, much less any experience or legacy. "In his words, 'you have to be given an opportunity to perform. It's not experience but the mindset, dedication, and the purpose, of a strong India that should engage us all'," he wrote, adding that the facts he has brought out would be "helpful" to Gandhi. Similar letters also went to other senior Congress leaders, including the party's communication department in-charge Randeep Surjewala. In his letter, Ambani asserted that not only did his firm have the experience but "we are also the leaders in several important areas of defence manufacture". He said statements by Congress leaders have saddened him. "I fully appreciate that in the midst of the heat and dust of political campaigning, as in the recent context of elections in Gujarat, a lot has often been said. "Nonetheless, considering that my entire family and I, starting with my respected father, have had the privilege of enjoying a very respectful relationship with the Gandhi family over generations as well as the Congress party for the past more than four decades, these statements have saddened and hurt our sentiments," he said in the letter.

Anil Ambani writes to Rahul Gandhi on Rafale deal, refutes allegations of lack of experience

Million of migrants come with a dream to make a living in New Delhi. They live in rented single rooms of Delhi's villages for decades&nbsp;in a hope that they will be able to save enough to buy a small house one day. Small time builders are offering houses on compromised rates, which is much lesser than what established builders offer. Thousands of aspiring homeowners have invested in the Shahberi area are yet to shift in.

People working in the Indian capital look for an affordable housing using all their savings or by taking loans on hefty interests to finally make the dream of home ownership come true. But their dreams of owning a home on the outskirts of Indian capital have proven to be life-threatening.

If you cross about 5 kilometers&nbsp;of Delhi towards Greater Noida, it won't take long to see big hoardings and lucrative advertisements of houses, plots and apartments on sale which are available in&nbsp;unbelievable rates, luring a common man dreaming for his own home for years. But are these unbelievable offers serving the purpose or inviting death for those who wish to a house in Delhi or its outskirts?

In the recent twin building collapse at Greater Noida's Shahberi village, 9 people lost their lives. The tragedy occurred when an illegal under construction building collapsed, however despite such fatal episode of building collapse illegal constructions are still in full swing in most areas of the national capital region of India.

The collapse of two buildings at Shahberi village in Greater Noida last week has put the spotlight on nonstop unauthorised illegal construction across Indian national capital region. Official data show that unauthorised construction is present in around 150 hectares of land at Shahberi village alone. Following this, the farmers either sold the land to builders or built illegal structures of their own without following building codes or obtaining mandatory approvals.

&nbsp;"There is no data available on illegal constructions taking place around the country including in Delhi, is maintained centrally. Several illegal buildings like these are located across Noida and Greater Noida and disaster awaits if preventive measures are not taken right now. They are building heavily on farmlands," says the president of architect association of Noida, Atul Gupta.

&nbsp;"The land is rarely notified by any authority, the owners of the land have the right so they sell and purchase land as per their will and construct six or eight storey buildings or whatever they want. They do require several documents, which have to be passed by the authority, but these local builders pay heavy bribes to the authorities to get all sorts of approvals," informs a local resident Ram Babu.

In 2009-10, the Greater Noida authority had acquired 3,635 hectares of land from about a dozen villages to form the Noida extension area. Around 161 hectares of this land came from Shahberi village. Later, following a supreme court order in October 2011, the land was returned to the farmers.

Interestingly, the apex court had already passed orders in 2004 not to allow construction in illegal colonies but this was not enforced by civic authorities in the last 14 years, which resulted in mushrooming of illegal construction resulting in the death of innocent home buyers.

In the recent twin building collapse at Greater Noida's Shahberi village, 9 people lost their lives. The tragedy occurred when an illegal under construction building collapsed.

Million of migrants come with a dream to make a living in New Delhi. They live in rented single rooms of Delhi's villages for decades in a hope that they will be able to save enough to buy a small house one day. Small time builders are offering houses on compromised rates, which is much lesser than what established builders offer. Thousands of aspiring homeowners have invested in the Shahberi area are yet to shift in. People working in the Indian capital look for an affordable housing using all their savings or by taking loans on hefty interests to finally make the dream of home ownership come true. But their dreams of owning a home on the outskirts of Indian capital have proven to be life-threatening. If you cross about 5 kilometers of Delhi towards Greater Noida, it won't take long to see big hoardings and lucrative advertisements of houses, plots and apartments on sale which are available in unbelievable rates, luring a common man dreaming for his own home for years. But are these unbelievable offers serving the purpose or inviting death for those who wish to a house in Delhi or its outskirts? In the recent twin building collapse at Greater Noida's Shahberi village, 9 people lost their lives. The tragedy occurred when an illegal under construction building collapsed, however despite such fatal episode of building collapse illegal constructions are still in full swing in most areas of the national capital region of India. The collapse of two buildings at Shahberi village in Greater Noida last week has put the spotlight on nonstop unauthorised illegal construction across Indian national capital region. Official data show that unauthorised construction is present in around 150 hectares of land at Shahberi village alone. Following this, the farmers either sold the land to builders or built illegal structures of their own without following building codes or obtaining mandatory approvals. "There is no data available on illegal constructions taking place around the country including in Delhi, is maintained centrally. Several illegal buildings like these are located across Noida and Greater Noida and disaster awaits if preventive measures are not taken right now. They are building heavily on farmlands," says the president of architect association of Noida, Atul Gupta. "The land is rarely notified by any authority, the owners of the land have the right so they sell and purchase land as per their will and construct six or eight storey buildings or whatever they want. They do require several documents, which have to be passed by the authority, but these local builders pay heavy bribes to the authorities to get all sorts of approvals," informs a local resident Ram Babu. In 2009-10, the Greater Noida authority had acquired 3,635 hectares of land from about a dozen villages to form the Noida extension area. Around 161 hectares of this land came from Shahberi village. Later, following a supreme court order in October 2011, the land was returned to the farmers. Interestingly, the apex court had already passed orders in 2004 not to allow construction in illegal colonies but this was not enforced by civic authorities in the last 14 years, which resulted in mushrooming of illegal construction resulting in the death of innocent home buyers.

Greater Noida building collapse: How builders play with lives of people

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news