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Two terrorists were gunned <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/india-news/jk-terrorists-open-fire-on-security-forces-in-kupwara-154322">down by security forces</a> in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday morning.

The security forces are conducting combing operations to ensure terrorists are not hiding in the area.

In another encounter, the Army engaged in an encounter with terrorists at Kupwara at 3:30 am on Tuesday. The encounter is still ongoing.&nbsp

In another encounter, the Army engaged in an encounter with terrorists at Kupwara at 3:30 am on Tuesday.

Two terrorists were gunned down by security forces in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday morning. The security forces are conducting combing operations to ensure terrorists are not hiding in the area. In another encounter, the Army engaged in an encounter with terrorists at Kupwara at 3:30 am on Tuesday. The encounter is still ongoing.

J&K: 2 terrorists killed in Anantnag encounter

India will open 18 new high commission across Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Uganda's parliament on Wednesday during a charm-offensive tour of the continent.

Rounding off a two-day visit to Kampala, Modi also announced the donation of a badly-needed cancer therapy machine and loans worth $200 million (171 million euros) for infrastructure and environmental projects.

India, the world's most populous democracy, is vying for influence in Africa with its regional competitor China which has aggressively developed trade, financial and diplomatic ties on the continent.

India currently has 29 full diplomatic missions in Africa, according to Delhi, compared to China which has 50.&nbsp

It hopes to open its new missions within three years, according to an Indian official who did not confirm which countries would receive envoys.

Modi also praised Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni for welcoming back the so-called Uganda Asians who were expelled by despot Idi Amin Dada, who was in turn ousted by Museveni.

"Your visionary leadership has enabled Ugandan people of Indian origin to return to their cherished home, regain their lives and help rebuild the nation that they deeply love," Modi told a crowded parliament chamber, becoming the first Indian prime minister to address the legislature.

Keen to be seen as a friend to Africa, Delhi plays up a shared history that China lacks, citing 16th-century merchants who plied Africa's coastline and India's fight against colonialism.

Earlier this week, Modi visited Rwanda where he symbolically donated 200 cows to poor families and oversaw Indian loans to Kigali.

He flew to South Africa from Uganda for a summit of the BRICS bloc.

The gathering in South Africa will bring together the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) for talks overshadowed by the looming US-led global trade war.&nbsp 
&nbsp

Rounding off a two-day visit to Kampala, Modi also announced the donation of a badly-needed cancer therapy machine and loans worth $200 million (171 million euros) for infrastructure and environmental projects

India will open 18 new high commission across Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Uganda's parliament on Wednesday during a charm-offensive tour of the continent. Rounding off a two-day visit to Kampala, Modi also announced the donation of a badly-needed cancer therapy machine and loans worth $200 million (171 million euros) for infrastructure and environmental projects. India, the world's most populous democracy, is vying for influence in Africa with its regional competitor China which has aggressively developed trade, financial and diplomatic ties on the continent. India currently has 29 full diplomatic missions in Africa, according to Delhi, compared to China which has 50. It hopes to open its new missions within three years, according to an Indian official who did not confirm which countries would receive envoys. Modi also praised Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni for welcoming back the so-called Uganda Asians who were expelled by despot Idi Amin Dada, who was in turn ousted by Museveni. "Your visionary leadership has enabled Ugandan people of Indian origin to return to their cherished home, regain their lives and help rebuild the nation that they deeply love," Modi told a crowded parliament chamber, becoming the first Indian prime minister to address the legislature. Keen to be seen as a friend to Africa, Delhi plays up a shared history that China lacks, citing 16th-century merchants who plied Africa's coastline and India's fight against colonialism. Earlier this week, Modi visited Rwanda where he symbolically donated 200 cows to poor families and oversaw Indian loans to Kigali. He flew to South Africa from Uganda for a summit of the BRICS bloc. The gathering in South Africa will bring together the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) for talks overshadowed by the looming US-led global trade war.

PM Modi plans to open 18 new High commissions in Africa

Corruption cases will be decided within two years time under the provisions of a new anti-corruption bill passed by Parliament, Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Jitendra Singh said.

He said there was a refrain in the society that corruption cases are lodged against public servants and they carry on for years together, sometimes even after the officer has retired or may have even passed away.

"Fixing a two-year timeline for deciding corruption cases, will not only expedite the decision-making process but would also avoid unnecessary harassment or ordeal that an affected officer or a public servant had to undergo in the past," Singh told PTI.

The Lok Sabha passed the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill on Tuesday after a four-hour debate. The Rajya Sabha had approved it on July 19.

The bill also has a provision to punish bribe-givers, who are not covered in any of the domestic anti-corruption legislation.

It proposes a 'shield' for government staff, including those retired, from prosecution by making it mandatory for investigating agencies like the CBI to take prior approval from competent authority before conducting any enquiry against them.

"No police officer shall conduct any enquiry or investigation into any offence alleged to have been committed by a public servant under this Act, where the alleged offence is relatable to any recommendation made or decision taken by such public servant in discharge of his official functions or duties, without the previous approval," it said.<iframe frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

The bill, however, states that such permission shall not be necessary for cases involving arrest of a person on the spot on the charge of accepting or attempting to accept any undue advantage for himself or for any other person.

Singh said the crusade against corruption will never end, but the duty of any responsible government is to ensure that suitable legislation is brought in from time to time, depending on the changing circumstances and situation.

He said the parliamentary history of independent India will certainly record that the first law against corruption was brought in 40 years after Independence in 1988, and exactly 30 years thereafter, the Modi government took the initiative to bring in an improvised legislation with a wide range of amendments to serve the twin purpose of making the anti-graft law wide-based and ensure sufficient safeguards for honest officers and public servants.

Instances of corruption and provisions to punish the guilty are provided in the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

The bill is wide-based and covers even the bribe-giving commercial organisations to be liable for punishment or prosecution, Singh said, adding, "However, the charitable institutions have been left out of this ambit."

Another very important relief to a public servant, under the new bill, is that in any corruption case against him, the factor of "undue advantage" will have to be established, Mr Singh said.

Minster of State in Prime Minister's Office Jitendra Singh said there was a refrain in the society that corruption cases are lodged against public servants and they carry on for years together.

Corruption cases will be decided within two years time under the provisions of a new anti-corruption bill passed by Parliament, Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Jitendra Singh said. He said there was a refrain in the society that corruption cases are lodged against public servants and they carry on for years together, sometimes even after the officer has retired or may have even passed away. "Fixing a two-year timeline for deciding corruption cases, will not only expedite the decision-making process but would also avoid unnecessary harassment or ordeal that an affected officer or a public servant had to undergo in the past," Singh told PTI. The Lok Sabha passed the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill on Tuesday after a four-hour debate. The Rajya Sabha had approved it on July 19. The bill also has a provision to punish bribe-givers, who are not covered in any of the domestic anti-corruption legislation. It proposes a 'shield' for government staff, including those retired, from prosecution by making it mandatory for investigating agencies like the CBI to take prior approval from competent authority before conducting any enquiry against them. "No police officer shall conduct any enquiry or investigation into any offence alleged to have been committed by a public servant under this Act, where the alleged offence is relatable to any recommendation made or decision taken by such public servant in discharge of his official functions or duties, without the previous approval," it said. The bill, however, states that such permission shall not be necessary for cases involving arrest of a person on the spot on the charge of accepting or attempting to accept any undue advantage for himself or for any other person. Singh said the crusade against corruption will never end, but the duty of any responsible government is to ensure that suitable legislation is brought in from time to time, depending on the changing circumstances and situation. He said the parliamentary history of independent India will certainly record that the first law against corruption was brought in 40 years after Independence in 1988, and exactly 30 years thereafter, the Modi government took the initiative to bring in an improvised legislation with a wide range of amendments to serve the twin purpose of making the anti-graft law wide-based and ensure sufficient safeguards for honest officers and public servants. Instances of corruption and provisions to punish the guilty are provided in the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. The bill is wide-based and covers even the bribe-giving commercial organisations to be liable for punishment or prosecution, Singh said, adding, "However, the charitable institutions have been left out of this ambit." Another very important relief to a public servant, under the new bill, is that in any corruption case against him, the factor of "undue advantage" will have to be established, Mr Singh said.

Under new anti-corruption bill, cases will be decided within 2 years: Centre

Congress workers on Tuesday launched a 'free hug' drive in Delhi's Connaught Place with several party members gathering on streets to offer free hugs to the passerbys.&nbsp;

The campaign comes following Congress president <a href="http://wionews.com/videos/modi-govt-faces-no-confidence-motion-rahul-gandhi-hugs-pm-modi-after-speech-153342">Rahul Gandhi's unexpected hug</a> to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the discussing of a no-confidence motion in the parliament on July 20.&nbsp;

During the campaign, around 50 workers were seen holding placards and banners with slogans 'remove enmity, save country' and pictures of Rahul hugging Prime Minister Modi.

Speaking to ANI, Delhi Congress worker Aniruddh Sharma, who was leading the campaign, said, "Our aim is to spread message - 'remove hatred, save country'. A hug is a way of spreading love. But we also tell people that the idea of India lies in the fact that people from different religions should respect each other's faith and live in harmony." 
He added that Rahul hugged Prime Minister Modi to spread the message of love and compassion. "We are taking his (Rahul) message forward," Sharma said.

On Sunday,<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/posters-of-rahul-hugging-pm-surface-in-mumbai-153612"> several posters</a> of Congress president Rahul Gandhi hugging Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha has been put up in Mumbai's Andheri.

The posters, which have been put by the Congress workers, also has a tagline that reads, "Nafrat se nahi, Pyar se jeetenge (we will win by love, not hatred)."

Last week, after creating a splash in the Lok Sabha by hugging Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said that only way to build a nation was by harnessing <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/day-after-pm-hug-rahul-says-only-love-and-compassion-can-build-a-nation-153456">love and compassion</a> of people.

"The point of yesterday's debate in Parliament. PM uses Hate, Fear and Anger in the hearts of some of our people to build his narrative. We are going to prove that Love and Compassion in the hearts of all Indians, is the only way to build a nation (sic)," he had said on Twitter.

The campaign comes following Congress president Rahul Gandhi's unexpected hug to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the discussing of a no-confidence motion in the parliament on July 20.

Congress workers on Tuesday launched a 'free hug' drive in Delhi's Connaught Place with several party members gathering on streets to offer free hugs to the passerbys. The campaign comes following Congress president Rahul Gandhi's unexpected hug to Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the discussing of a no-confidence motion in the parliament on July 20. During the campaign, around 50 workers were seen holding placards and banners with slogans 'remove enmity, save country' and pictures of Rahul hugging Prime Minister Modi. Speaking to ANI, Delhi Congress worker Aniruddh Sharma, who was leading the campaign, said, "Our aim is to spread message - 'remove hatred, save country'. A hug is a way of spreading love. But we also tell people that the idea of India lies in the fact that people from different religions should respect each other's faith and live in harmony." He added that Rahul hugged Prime Minister Modi to spread the message of love and compassion. "We are taking his (Rahul) message forward," Sharma said. On Sunday, several posters of Congress president Rahul Gandhi hugging Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha has been put up in Mumbai's Andheri. The posters, which have been put by the Congress workers, also has a tagline that reads, "Nafrat se nahi, Pyar se jeetenge (we will win by love, not hatred)." Last week, after creating a splash in the Lok Sabha by hugging Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said that only way to build a nation was by harnessing love and compassion of people. "The point of yesterday's debate in Parliament. PM uses Hate, Fear and Anger in the hearts of some of our people to build his narrative. We are going to prove that Love and Compassion in the hearts of all Indians, is the only way to build a nation (sic)," he had said on Twitter.

Delhi: Congress members launch 'free hug' campaign, float pictures of Modi-Gandhi hug

With Congress open to the idea of non-Congress Prime Minister, the signal to anti-BJP regional parties is that 1996 experiment can be repeated - when Congress propped up a government to stop BJP. This also means that Congress is fighting the 2019 electoral battle not to win but to stop the BJP from coming back to power. 
&nbsp; 
Congress on its own cannot stop BJP so the party has sent feelers that it is ready to support a non-Congress face as Prime Minister to keep Narendra Modi out of power. However, this time Congress is weaker and would need to play the role of a shepherd to keep anti-BJP flock together. The indication from Congress camp that Rahul Gandhi might give way to some other leader to become the prime ministerial candidate of the opposition front, has excited the imagination of many regional satraps and also kept the door open for the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
This has put spotlight on two players - Mayawati and Sharad Pawar. Former is a Dalit leader who is willing to stitch an anti-BJP alliance to stop Modi. India has never elected a Dalit Prime Minister. OBCs have been India's prime ministers but Dalits have not got the opportunity, though Indian politics since 1947 has revolved around Dalit issues. 
&nbsp; 
The only problem with Mayawati is graft cases against her. But the prospect of her ascension gives opposition huge political advantage - to capitalise on the Dalit vote bank and consolidate it. It will give former CM of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav better playing field in the home state.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Then comes Sharad Pawar. The former Union agriculture minister and chief minister of Maharashtra was once a contender to PV Narasimha Rao, but quietly bowed out of the PM race after realising that he does not have the numbers. Pawar rebelled when Sonia Gandhi was at the helm of affairs but went on to become minister under UPA for straight 10 years. 
&nbsp; 
Pawar is known for political connections cutting across parties. His electoral base is limited but his contacts are far and wide. By extending support to the BJP in Maharashtra, he ensured that Shiv Sena becomes irrelevant. Pawar has no strong enemies and Mayawati has patched up with Akhilesh Yadav. They cannot be cancelled out politically. The other name doing the rounds is that of West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee. Despite being a strong leader, Mamata gets cancelled out because of the Left. Sharad Pawar and Mayawati are more acceptable to them. Mamata's relationship with Congress has been hot and cold and Rahul Gandhi chose to fight assembly elections with Left rather than TMC. 
&nbsp; 
Other regional leaders like JD(S) chief Deve Gowda are out of race. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandra Babu Naidu's fight with Prime Minister is more personal and local than on ideological lines. He can always make up and go back to BJP. Congress considers TRS chief and Telangana Chief Minister Chandrashekhar Rao as B-team of BJP. RJD leader Lalu Yadav is in jail and SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav is not in the pink of health. And BJD chief and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is still undecided. So what principle will come to play at the time of selection if the mandate is fractured?

To understand this, let us examine the reasons which led to the elevation of Deve Gowda as Prime Minister of India. As the leaders got into a huddle to choose a leader of the United Front-led government in 1996, their first choice was former Prime Minister VP Singh. But he refused the offer. An intense power struggle followed between Lalu and Mulayam. 
 
Lalu-led block prevailed and Mulayam’s candidature was cancelled. But Mulayam's supporters propped up the name of Deve Gowda, seen as the most unthreatening leader. Gowda became the Prime Minister but lost his pre-eminent position in the Karnataka politics. He was a chief minister when he accepted the offer but didn't last long in national politics. 
&nbsp; 
What happened to Deve Gowda still serves as warning to many powerful chief ministers that a short stints like these can end one's political career. Once Deve Gowda was dethroned, the mantle went to IK Gujral who was not a mass leader. Again the most unthreatening leader was chosen. 
&nbsp; 
This principle was applied again in 2004 when Sonia Gandhi, then Congress chief, chose not to become the Prime Minister and elevated Manmohan Singh to the rank. Neither of them had loyalty of the Members of the Parliament nor controlled the organisational steering of the respective set up.

Going by the logic of selection, rather than election, it will be a compromise candidate whose elevation would be a political signal. Mayawati tops the criteria but corruption charges against her is the baggage.

Both Pawar and Manmohan are old war horses who are electorally unthreatening. The rest, by virtue of being more powerful and resourceful, get cancelled out.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Going by the logic of selection, rather than election, it will be a compromise candidate whose elevation would be a political signal.

With Congress open to the idea of non-Congress Prime Minister, the signal to anti-BJP regional parties is that 1996 experiment can be repeated - when Congress propped up a government to stop BJP. This also means that Congress is fighting the 2019 electoral battle not to win but to stop the BJP from coming back to power. Congress on its own cannot stop BJP so the party has sent feelers that it is ready to support a non-Congress face as Prime Minister to keep Narendra Modi out of power. However, this time Congress is weaker and would need to play the role of a shepherd to keep anti-BJP flock together. The indication from Congress camp that Rahul Gandhi might give way to some other leader to become the prime ministerial candidate of the opposition front, has excited the imagination of many regional satraps and also kept the door open for the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. This has put spotlight on two players - Mayawati and Sharad Pawar. Former is a Dalit leader who is willing to stitch an anti-BJP alliance to stop Modi. India has never elected a Dalit Prime Minister. OBCs have been India's prime ministers but Dalits have not got the opportunity, though Indian politics since 1947 has revolved around Dalit issues. The only problem with Mayawati is graft cases against her. But the prospect of her ascension gives opposition huge political advantage - to capitalise on the Dalit vote bank and consolidate it. It will give former CM of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav better playing field in the home state. Then comes Sharad Pawar. The former Union agriculture minister and chief minister of Maharashtra was once a contender to PV Narasimha Rao, but quietly bowed out of the PM race after realising that he does not have the numbers. Pawar rebelled when Sonia Gandhi was at the helm of affairs but went on to become minister under UPA for straight 10 years. Pawar is known for political connections cutting across parties. His electoral base is limited but his contacts are far and wide. By extending support to the BJP in Maharashtra, he ensured that Shiv Sena becomes irrelevant. Pawar has no strong enemies and Mayawati has patched up with Akhilesh Yadav. They cannot be cancelled out politically. The other name doing the rounds is that of West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee. Despite being a strong leader, Mamata gets cancelled out because of the Left. Sharad Pawar and Mayawati are more acceptable to them. Mamata's relationship with Congress has been hot and cold and Rahul Gandhi chose to fight assembly elections with Left rather than TMC. Other regional leaders like JD(S) chief Deve Gowda are out of race. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandra Babu Naidu's fight with Prime Minister is more personal and local than on ideological lines. He can always make up and go back to BJP. Congress considers TRS chief and Telangana Chief Minister Chandrashekhar Rao as B-team of BJP. RJD leader Lalu Yadav is in jail and SP leader Mulayam Singh Yadav is not in the pink of health. And BJD chief and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is still undecided. So what principle will come to play at the time of selection if the mandate is fractured? To understand this, let us examine the reasons which led to the elevation of Deve Gowda as Prime Minister of India. As the leaders got into a huddle to choose a leader of the United Front-led government in 1996, their first choice was former Prime Minister VP Singh. But he refused the offer. An intense power struggle followed between Lalu and Mulayam. Lalu-led block prevailed and Mulayam’s candidature was cancelled. But Mulayam's supporters propped up the name of Deve Gowda, seen as the most unthreatening leader. Gowda became the Prime Minister but lost his pre-eminent position in the Karnataka politics. He was a chief minister when he accepted the offer but didn't last long in national politics. What happened to Deve Gowda still serves as warning to many powerful chief ministers that a short stints like these can end one's political career. Once Deve Gowda was dethroned, the mantle went to IK Gujral who was not a mass leader. Again the most unthreatening leader was chosen. This principle was applied again in 2004 when Sonia Gandhi, then Congress chief, chose not to become the Prime Minister and elevated Manmohan Singh to the rank. Neither of them had loyalty of the Members of the Parliament nor controlled the organisational steering of the respective set up. Going by the logic of selection, rather than election, it will be a compromise candidate whose elevation would be a political signal. Mayawati tops the criteria but corruption charges against her is the baggage. Both Pawar and Manmohan are old war horses who are electorally unthreatening. The rest, by virtue of being more powerful and resourceful, get cancelled out. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why Mayawati is opposition's best bet as Prime Minister

Air India has come under major fire after a passenger last week was bitten by numerous bed bugs in the business class section of the Newark-Mumbai bound flight.&nbsp;

Saumya Shetty, who traveled business class with her three children, including a baby, and arrived in Mumbai last Wednesday, says she developed rashes all over her body. She alleges that despite her complaint to the flight staff, she was forced to sleep in the same seat and got a seat change only a short while before landing in Mumbai.

&nbsp;"Traveled business class thinking it would help with three kids. I'm covered with bed bugs bites and it's been a painful day so far," she posted on Twitter.

"Covered in painful bedbug bites all over my body thanks to business class of #AirIndia is this what you charge for? I only got moved to another seat in the morning when we were landing, it was disgusting! Mind you I was traveling with 3 kids," Shetty said in a series of tweets tagging the media.&nbsp;

Several business class passengers last week took to social media to vent out their anger over being bitten by bed bugs on the Newark-Mumbai flights. The incidents were reported on different days.

Press Trust of India quoted sources to say that a baby was bitten by the bedbugs on the same flight, which left passengers agitated.

Disturbing images were posted on Twitter about the bedbugs crawling on the seats and bite marks all over a woman's hand.

<div class="ui-state-default">
<div class="twitter-block">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
What an <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/airindia?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#airindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/businessclass?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#businessclass</a> would do to you? AI still has to get in touch with me inspite if my repeated attempts to get in touch with them. <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airindiain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NewYorkTimes11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NewYorkTimes11</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/cnni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cnni</a> <a href="https://t.co/tDHfmhX0Vx">pic.twitter.com/tDHfmhX0Vx</a>
— Saumya Shetty (@saumshetty) <a href="https://twitter.com/saumshetty/status/1020295314878750721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
</div>
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Another passenger Pravin Tonsekar on Tuesday also tweeted that his seat, also in the business class, was infested with bedbugs.

"...just arrived from New York on Air India 144 business class with family. All our seats infested with bed bugs. Sir, have heard of bed bugs on trains but shocked to experience on our maharaja and that too business," Pravin Tonsekar tweeted and tagged the airline and the Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu.

In a second tweet, he said that his "wife and daughters had to suffer half of the journey sitting in economy seats with broken tables and inoperative TV".

Air India has since issued a statement apologising to the passengers on the flight.&nbsp;

"Air India is deeply concerned with a few reports of bugs causing inconvenience to its esteemed passengers. The issue has been viewed seriously and every possible step is being taken to closely inspect and further strengthen our system at every level to ensure that such isolated incidents of passenger discomfiture do not affect our consistent performance," the airline said in a statement.

"Experienced experts have carried out extensive service on the aircraft from fumigation to overhaul of the upholstery/seat covers/carpets etc to ensure that passengers keep enjoying their in-flight experience with us as always without any complaint of inconvenience," it added.

The airline said every department related to maintenance and cabin upkeep had probed deep into the concerns raised by a few passengers.

The state-run carrier said it would weed out any deterrent that tarnishes or maligns its image due to its own inadvertent lapse or resulting from any external machination.

Twitter users soon reacted in dismay after Shetty shared the post.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
My sympathies are with you. I finish 600,000miles with <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airindiain</a> today in 2yrs. Haven’t been treated more shabbily by any other airline yet in my life.
— Arvind (@ARV1NDC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ARV1NDC/status/1020317332088946690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/airindia?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#airindia</a> is Indian shame , run by corrupt babus I was extorted with extra money during an emergency at Colombo. Local manager tried to get bribe of 1lakh Lkr for date change without any documents. This fraud was reported n no one addressed.
— Semiconductor (@controlss) <a href="https://twitter.com/controlss/status/1021638200853315584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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?? irresponsible maintainance
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Hope you got these bites investigated and treated. 
 
Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airindiain</a> , no point in staying in business if you cannot take care of simple things. And if there's no buyer, please sell off those planes and be done with.
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&nbsp;

Several business class passengers last week took to social media to vent out their anger over being bitten by bed bugs on the Newark-Mumbai flights. The incidents were reported on different days.

Air India has come under major fire after a passenger last week was bitten by numerous bed bugs in the business class section of the Newark-Mumbai bound flight. Saumya Shetty, who traveled business class with her three children, including a baby, and arrived in Mumbai last Wednesday, says she developed rashes all over her body. She alleges that despite her complaint to the flight staff, she was forced to sleep in the same seat and got a seat change only a short while before landing in Mumbai. "Traveled business class thinking it would help with three kids. I'm covered with bed bugs bites and it's been a painful day so far," she posted on Twitter. "Covered in painful bedbug bites all over my body thanks to business class of #AirIndia is this what you charge for? I only got moved to another seat in the morning when we were landing, it was disgusting! Mind you I was traveling with 3 kids," Shetty said in a series of tweets tagging the media. Several business class passengers last week took to social media to vent out their anger over being bitten by bed bugs on the Newark-Mumbai flights. The incidents were reported on different days. Press Trust of India quoted sources to say that a baby was bitten by the bedbugs on the same flight, which left passengers agitated. Disturbing images were posted on Twitter about the bedbugs crawling on the seats and bite marks all over a woman's hand. What an #airindia #businessclass would do to you? AI still has to get in touch with me inspite if my repeated attempts to get in touch with them. @airindiain @NewYorkTimes11 @cnni pic.twitter.com/tDHfmhX0Vx — Saumya Shetty (@saumshetty) July 20, 2018 × Another passenger Pravin Tonsekar on Tuesday also tweeted that his seat, also in the business class, was infested with bedbugs. "...just arrived from New York on Air India 144 business class with family. All our seats infested with bed bugs. Sir, have heard of bed bugs on trains but shocked to experience on our maharaja and that too business," Pravin Tonsekar tweeted and tagged the airline and the Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu. In a second tweet, he said that his "wife and daughters had to suffer half of the journey sitting in economy seats with broken tables and inoperative TV". Air India has since issued a statement apologising to the passengers on the flight. "Air India is deeply concerned with a few reports of bugs causing inconvenience to its esteemed passengers. The issue has been viewed seriously and every possible step is being taken to closely inspect and further strengthen our system at every level to ensure that such isolated incidents of passenger discomfiture do not affect our consistent performance," the airline said in a statement. "Experienced experts have carried out extensive service on the aircraft from fumigation to overhaul of the upholstery/seat covers/carpets etc to ensure that passengers keep enjoying their in-flight experience with us as always without any complaint of inconvenience," it added. The airline said every department related to maintenance and cabin upkeep had probed deep into the concerns raised by a few passengers. The state-run carrier said it would weed out any deterrent that tarnishes or maligns its image due to its own inadvertent lapse or resulting from any external machination. Twitter users soon reacted in dismay after Shetty shared the post. My sympathies are with you. I finish 600,000miles with @airindiain today in 2yrs. Haven’t been treated more shabbily by any other airline yet in my life. — Arvind (@ARV1NDC) July 20, 2018 × #airindia is Indian shame , run by corrupt babus I was extorted with extra money during an emergency at Colombo. Local manager tried to get bribe of 1lakh Lkr for date change without any documents. This fraud was reported n no one addressed. — Semiconductor (@controlss) July 24, 2018 × ?? irresponsible maintainance — Anjana Charan (@Anju4Charan) July 25, 2018 × Hope you got these bites investigated and treated. Dear @airindiain , no point in staying in business if you cannot take care of simple things. And if there's no buyer, please sell off those planes and be done with. — Deepak Dange (@deepak77) July 25, 2018 ×

Air India comes under fire after bed bugs found on flight

Karnataka chief minister H D Kumaraswamy on Tuesday ordered to restrict media officials from entering the Vidhan Soudha (state assembly building), reports said.&nbsp;

As per reports, he said that separate rooms will be allocated to the media and journalists where ministers and officials would come and share necessary information directly.&nbsp;

He further announced that he chose this idea to give a “special arrangement with better amenities to help media report better”.&nbsp;

This decision is being viewed as a gag order&nbsp;to prevent his cabinet from being flocked by the media with questions.&nbsp;

Kumaraswamy's orders come after he accused the media of being unfair and biased against him and his government, reports said. He also said that the media has had zero support his government which led to his breakdown at a Janata Dal (Secular) felicitation programme.

He said that the constant haranguing by the media at either the ministers or officials chambers on in the hallways was causing difficulties in discharging their duties.

As per reports, he said that separate rooms will be allocated to the media and journalists where ministers and officials would come and share necessary information directly.

Karnataka chief minister H D Kumaraswamy on Tuesday ordered to restrict media officials from entering the Vidhan Soudha (state assembly building), reports said. As per reports, he said that separate rooms will be allocated to the media and journalists where ministers and officials would come and share necessary information directly. He further announced that he chose this idea to give a “special arrangement with better amenities to help media report better”. This decision is being viewed as a gag order to prevent his cabinet from being flocked by the media with questions. Kumaraswamy's orders come after he accused the media of being unfair and biased against him and his government, reports said. He also said that the media has had zero support his government which led to his breakdown at a Janata Dal (Secular) felicitation programme. He said that the constant haranguing by the media at either the ministers or officials chambers on in the hallways was causing difficulties in discharging their duties.

Karnataka CM Kumaraswamy announces restriction of media in state assembly

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath made a controversial comment on Wednesday by saying that the lynching incidents in the country were&nbsp;given unnecessary importance.&nbsp;

He referred to the 1984 Sikh killings and said that the mass killing was "mob lynching".

The chief minister also added that the Congress was trying to exaggerate the situation.

He said, "These incidents are given unnecessary importance. If you talk about mob lynching, what was 1984? Law and order is a matter of state. Congress' intention to make mountain out of a molehill won't be successful".

Hinting at taking measures&nbsp;for cow protection he said that every community and every religion should respect each other sentiments. Humans are important and cows are also important

He said, "We'll provide protection to everyone, but it's the responsibility of every individual, every community and every religion to respect each other sentiments. Humans are important and cows are also important. Both have their own roles in nature. Everyone should be protected".

He also hit out at Congress President Rahul Gandhi saying that he was exposed during the no-confidence motion debate in the Parliament.

He said, "The entire nation has already rejected Rahul Gandhi's childish acts. The no-confidence motion has exposed Congress. The statements and acts of opposition during the motion were immature and reveal their actual personality".

He said, "I think it's my good fortune that I'm the first CM who has done survey of entire state in such a short span of time and activated machinery across the state. In 15-16 months,we went to 75 districts,took review meeting of 18 commissionaires,and carried developmental work forward".

'These incidents are given unnecessary importance. If you talk about mob lynching, what was 1984? Law and order is a matter of state. Congress' intention to make mountain out of a molehill won't be successful,' Yogi said

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath made a controversial comment on Wednesday by saying that the lynching incidents in the country were given unnecessary importance. He referred to the 1984 Sikh killings and said that the mass killing was "mob lynching". The chief minister also added that the Congress was trying to exaggerate the situation. He said, "These incidents are given unnecessary importance. If you talk about mob lynching, what was 1984? Law and order is a matter of state. Congress' intention to make mountain out of a molehill won't be successful". Hinting at taking measures for cow protection he said that every community and every religion should respect each other sentiments. Humans are important and cows are also important He said, "We'll provide protection to everyone, but it's the responsibility of every individual, every community and every religion to respect each other sentiments. Humans are important and cows are also important. Both have their own roles in nature. Everyone should be protected". He also hit out at Congress President Rahul Gandhi saying that he was exposed during the no-confidence motion debate in the Parliament. He said, "The entire nation has already rejected Rahul Gandhi's childish acts. The no-confidence motion has exposed Congress. The statements and acts of opposition during the motion were immature and reveal their actual personality". He said, "I think it's my good fortune that I'm the first CM who has done survey of entire state in such a short span of time and activated machinery across the state. In 15-16 months,we went to 75 districts,took review meeting of 18 commissionaires,and carried developmental work forward".

Unnecessary importance being given to lynchings, says Yogi Adityanath

The body of a newborn baby was found Wednesday on a Guwahati-Delhi Air Asia flight.&nbsp;

The corpse has been sent for post-mortem examination and the girl suspected to be the baby's mother has been sent for a medical examination, ANI reported.&nbsp;

A doctor from the medical team at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport confirmed that the baby had been delivered onboard.&nbsp;

Air Asia added that a suspect has been held back for further investigation.&nbsp;

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A new born infant was found lifeless & abandoned onboard the aircraft. Delhi Police were alerted & a doctor from the medical team at Delhi IGI airport confirmed that the baby was delivered onboard. A suspect has been held back by police for further investigation: Air Asia
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1022119943893123073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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News reports said the girl suspected to be the baby's mother is thought to be a minor.&nbsp;

The reports added that the baby was found inside a toilet on the plane by a flight staffer. And that the baby's mouth had been stuffed with toilet paper to prevent the child from crying out which would have alerted the other passengers.&nbsp;

A case of murder has been registered by Delhi Police.

A doctor from the medical team at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport confirmed that the baby had been delivered onboard

The body of a newborn baby was found Wednesday on a Guwahati-Delhi Air Asia flight. The corpse has been sent for post-mortem examination and the girl suspected to be the baby's mother has been sent for a medical examination, ANI reported. A doctor from the medical team at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport confirmed that the baby had been delivered onboard. Air Asia added that a suspect has been held back for further investigation. A new born infant was found lifeless & abandoned onboard the aircraft. Delhi Police were alerted & a doctor from the medical team at Delhi IGI airport confirmed that the baby was delivered onboard. A suspect has been held back by police for further investigation: Air Asia — ANI (@ANI) July 25, 2018 × News reports said the girl suspected to be the baby's mother is thought to be a minor. The reports added that the baby was found inside a toilet on the plane by a flight staffer. And that the baby's mouth had been stuffed with toilet paper to prevent the child from crying out which would have alerted the other passengers. A case of murder has been registered by Delhi Police.

Dead baby found on Guwahati-Delhi Air Asia flight

Parliament today passed a bill that seeks to prevent big economic offenders like Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi from fleeing the country and evading the legal process.

The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 was passed by the Rajya Sabha with a voice vote today. The Lok Sabha had cleared the measure on July 19.

Finance MInister Piyush Goyal said instances of people running away and evading legal legal process was increasing, which needed to be stopped as the current laws do not allow dealing with the "severity of the problem".

"Criminal law does not allow us to impound their property," he added.

"This bill is an effective, expeditious and constitutional way to stop these offenders from running away. Legislative changes or a new law must be in place to confiscate assets of such absconders till they don't present themselves in front of the courts. We will also work out what has to be done with the confiscated assets," Goyal said.

While replying to the debate, he said there cannot be a situation where economic offenders run away from the country and also protect their properties.

Justifying the financial limit of Rs 100 crore for invoking the provision of this new law, Goyal said it was being done to catch the big offenders and not to clog the courts.

The Enforcement Directorate will be the investigative agency under the Act, he added.&nbsp;

The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 was passed by the Rajya Sabha with a voice vote today. The Lok Sabha had cleared the measure on July 19

Parliament today passed a bill that seeks to prevent big economic offenders like Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi from fleeing the country and evading the legal process. The Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 was passed by the Rajya Sabha with a voice vote today. The Lok Sabha had cleared the measure on July 19. Finance MInister Piyush Goyal said instances of people running away and evading legal legal process was increasing, which needed to be stopped as the current laws do not allow dealing with the "severity of the problem". "Criminal law does not allow us to impound their property," he added. "This bill is an effective, expeditious and constitutional way to stop these offenders from running away. Legislative changes or a new law must be in place to confiscate assets of such absconders till they don't present themselves in front of the courts. We will also work out what has to be done with the confiscated assets," Goyal said. While replying to the debate, he said there cannot be a situation where economic offenders run away from the country and also protect their properties. Justifying the financial limit of Rs 100 crore for invoking the provision of this new law, Goyal said it was being done to catch the big offenders and not to clog the courts. The Enforcement Directorate will be the investigative agency under the Act, he added.

Parliament passes Economic Offenders bill

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested one more suspect in connection with journalist Gaur Lankesh's murder. The total number of arrests stands&nbspat 10.&nbsp

Rajesh (50) was arrested from Madikeri district of Karnataka on July 23 and was sent to police custody till August 6.

Previously, two more suspects were arrested by the Special Investigation Team from Hubbali, in north Karnataka, on Monday in the Gauri Lankesh murder case and will be in probe for 15 days, reports said.&nbsp

Both men, who are in their late-20s, have been accused of murder, abetment, conspiracy and under various sections of the Arms Act. The police are yet to spell out their role in the case but it is suspected that they were involved in the destruction of evidence.

All 10 arrested, including the alleged shooter, Parashuram Waghmare, 26, from Vijayapura district of Karnataka, are claimed to have been part of the core group of Hindutva group who executed the murder, reports say.

Rajesh (50) was arrested from Madikeri district of Karnataka on July 23 and was sent to police custody till August 6.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested one more suspect in connection with journalist Gaur Lankesh's murder. The total number of arrests stands&nbspat 10. Rajesh (50) was arrested from Madikeri district of Karnataka on July 23 and was sent to police custody till August 6. Previously, two more suspects were arrested by the Special Investigation Team from Hubbali, in north Karnataka, on Monday in the Gauri Lankesh murder case and will be in probe for 15 days, reports said. Both men, who are in their late-20s, have been accused of murder, abetment, conspiracy and under various sections of the Arms Act. The police are yet to spell out their role in the case but it is suspected that they were involved in the destruction of evidence. All 10 arrested, including the alleged shooter, Parashuram Waghmare, 26, from Vijayapura district of Karnataka, are claimed to have been part of the core group of Hindutva group who executed the murder, reports say.

Karnataka: One more arrested in connection with Gauri Lankesh murder

Terrorists opened fire on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's(J&K) Kupwara district.

The exchange of gunfire took place near Keran sector.

Reports said the firing started at 3:30 am on Tuesday morning as security forces intercepted terrorists operating in the area.

There are no immediate reports of any casualties as the encounter continues.

&nbsp

There are no immediate reports of any casualties as the encounter continues.

Terrorists opened fire on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's(J&K) Kupwara district. The exchange of gunfire took place near Keran sector. Reports said the firing started at 3:30 am on Tuesday morning as security forces intercepted terrorists operating in the area. There are no immediate reports of any casualties as the encounter continues.

J&K: Terrorists open fire on security forces in Kupwara

The Maratha Kranti Morcha which led the protests in Maharashtra demanding quota for the Maratha community in jobs and education has finally called off the Mumbai bandh.

The protests which began today morning were called off just before 3 pm.

The leader of the Morcha Virendra Pawar said the protests were called off because it was turning violent.

He said they never wanted to indulge in violence and just wanted to prove the unity of their community.

Pawar&nbsp;said, "We only wanted to prove that we are together and proved it. We never wanted protests to get violent and therefore, we are calling off our bandh in Mumbai for today".

"We suspect some people carried out violent activities with political motives. Otherwise, it was supposed to be peaceful like before. But considering the reports of violence coming from outside Mumbai, we decided to call it off".

Another leader of the Morcha said a bandh may be called again on August 9 but a final call in this regard will be taken after consulting all senior members of all Maratha morchas.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Maharashtra police fires tear gas shells on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarathaKrantiMorcha?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarathaKrantiMorcha</a>'s protesters who were blocking the Mumbai-Pune highway in Kalamboli over demand for reservation in govt jobs & education, earlier today. The organisation has called off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiBandh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiBandh</a> now. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/7PdrwMOfH2">pic.twitter.com/7PdrwMOfH2</a>
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The Maratha Kranti Morcha had given the call for the bandh, demanding an apology from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for alleging that some members from the community were planning violence at Pandharpur town in Solapur district.

Fadnavis, who was scheduled to perform puja at a temple on 'Ashadhi Ekadashi' on Monday, cancelled it after the Maratha outfits threatened to disrupt the event.

Meanwhile, the state chief minister had assured that the government was ready to talk with the Maratha community".

He said, "The government has taken cognisance of protest by Maratha community and has taken several decisions. The Government is ready to talk to them."

He added that the government had made a law for reservation to the community but that was stayed by Bombay High Court.

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The government has taken cognisance of protest by Maratha community and has taken several decisions. Govt is ready to talk to them. Govt had made a law for reservation to the community but that was stayed by Bombay HC: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis <a href="https://t.co/YLwht6EQpv">pic.twitter.com/YLwht6EQpv</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1022078993225461760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Quotas for Marathas, a politically influential community that constitutes around 30 per cent of the state's population, has been a hugely contentious issue.

The community leaders had earlier taken out several rallies in various districts to highlight their demands. Last year, a huge rally was organised by the Maratha Kranti Morcha in this connection in Mumbai.

A state-wide protest began in Maharashtra on Tuesday by Maratha outfits demanding reservation for the community in the state.&nbsp;The protest led to the death of one constable, injuring nine&nbsp;other policemen.

(With inputs from PTI)

The protest was called off just before 3 pm today. Another band may be called on August 9

The Maratha Kranti Morcha which led the protests in Maharashtra demanding quota for the Maratha community in jobs and education has finally called off the Mumbai bandh. The protests which began today morning were called off just before 3 pm. The leader of the Morcha Virendra Pawar said the protests were called off because it was turning violent. He said they never wanted to indulge in violence and just wanted to prove the unity of their community. Pawar said, "We only wanted to prove that we are together and proved it. We never wanted protests to get violent and therefore, we are calling off our bandh in Mumbai for today". "We suspect some people carried out violent activities with political motives. Otherwise, it was supposed to be peaceful like before. But considering the reports of violence coming from outside Mumbai, we decided to call it off". Another leader of the Morcha said a bandh may be called again on August 9 but a final call in this regard will be taken after consulting all senior members of all Maratha morchas. #WATCH: Maharashtra police fires tear gas shells on #MarathaKrantiMorcha's protesters who were blocking the Mumbai-Pune highway in Kalamboli over demand for reservation in govt jobs & education, earlier today. The organisation has called off #MumbaiBandh now. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/7PdrwMOfH2 — ANI (@ANI) July 25, 2018 × The Maratha Kranti Morcha had given the call for the bandh, demanding an apology from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for alleging that some members from the community were planning violence at Pandharpur town in Solapur district. Fadnavis, who was scheduled to perform puja at a temple on 'Ashadhi Ekadashi' on Monday, cancelled it after the Maratha outfits threatened to disrupt the event. Meanwhile, the state chief minister had assured that the government was ready to talk with the Maratha community". He said, "The government has taken cognisance of protest by Maratha community and has taken several decisions. The Government is ready to talk to them." He added that the government had made a law for reservation to the community but that was stayed by Bombay High Court. The government has taken cognisance of protest by Maratha community and has taken several decisions. Govt is ready to talk to them. Govt had made a law for reservation to the community but that was stayed by Bombay HC: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis pic.twitter.com/YLwht6EQpv — ANI (@ANI) July 25, 2018 × Quotas for Marathas, a politically influential community that constitutes around 30 per cent of the state's population, has been a hugely contentious issue. The community leaders had earlier taken out several rallies in various districts to highlight their demands. Last year, a huge rally was organised by the Maratha Kranti Morcha in this connection in Mumbai. A state-wide protest began in Maharashtra on Tuesday by Maratha outfits demanding reservation for the community in the state. The protest led to the death of one constable, injuring nine other policemen. (With inputs from PTI)

Mumbai: Maratha protest demanding reservations called off

The world needs cooperation and not competition in the eastern shores of Africa to ensure that the continent does not turn into a "theatre of rival ambitions" again, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today, apparently referring to China's growing military presence in the region.

China, which is Africa's largest trading partner, opened its first so called support base for its navy on the continent last year in the Horn of Africa nation of Djibouti.

The Chinese base in Djibouti follows decades of Chinese investment in diplomacy in Africa, which has raised concerns in India.

Modi, who arrived here yesterday on the second leg of his Africa tour, today addressed the Parliament of Uganda and said India wants to deepen ita engagement with Africa and outlined 10 guiding principles to do that.&nbsp;

He said one of the guiding principles is to work with African nations to keep the oceans open and free for the benefit of all nations.

"The world needs cooperation and not competition in the eastern shores of Africa and the eastern Indian Ocean. That is why India's vision of Indian Ocean Security is cooperative and inclusive, rooted in security and growth for all in the region," he said, without mentioning the name of any country.&nbsp;

As global engagement in Africa increases, Modi said, "We must all work together to ensure that Africa does not once again turn into a theatre of rival ambitions, but becomes a nursery for the aspirations of Africa's youth."&nbsp;

Africa is the world's second largest and second most-populous continent. In the late 19th century, European countries colonised almost all of Africa.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The world needs cooperation and not competition in the eastern shores of Africa to ensure that the continent does not turn into a "theatre of rival ambitions" again, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today, apparently referring to China's growing military presence in the region

The world needs cooperation and not competition in the eastern shores of Africa to ensure that the continent does not turn into a "theatre of rival ambitions" again, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today, apparently referring to China's growing military presence in the region. China, which is Africa's largest trading partner, opened its first so called support base for its navy on the continent last year in the Horn of Africa nation of Djibouti. The Chinese base in Djibouti follows decades of Chinese investment in diplomacy in Africa, which has raised concerns in India. Modi, who arrived here yesterday on the second leg of his Africa tour, today addressed the Parliament of Uganda and said India wants to deepen ita engagement with Africa and outlined 10 guiding principles to do that. He said one of the guiding principles is to work with African nations to keep the oceans open and free for the benefit of all nations. "The world needs cooperation and not competition in the eastern shores of Africa and the eastern Indian Ocean. That is why India's vision of Indian Ocean Security is cooperative and inclusive, rooted in security and growth for all in the region," he said, without mentioning the name of any country. As global engagement in Africa increases, Modi said, "We must all work together to ensure that Africa does not once again turn into a theatre of rival ambitions, but becomes a nursery for the aspirations of Africa's youth." Africa is the world's second largest and second most-populous continent. In the late 19th century, European countries colonised almost all of Africa.

World needs cooperation not competition in eastern shores of Africa: Modi

After concluding his <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/10-principles-to-guide-indias-engagement-with-africa-modi-154491">two-day visit to Africa</a>, Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday took off for the final leg of his three-nation trip to South Africa.

The Prime Minister headed for South Africa to attend the BRICS 2018 Summit.

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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>
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The summit which is scheduled to be held in Johannesburg will have leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Besides this, the Summit will also have several African leaders invited as guests.

The theme of the 2018 BRICS Summit is "BRICS in Africa".

The Summit will&nbsp;be held for three days and will focus on the <a href="http://wionews.com/world/brics-emerging-economies-meet-as-us-trade-war-looms-154299">threat of a US-led global trade war</a>.

The summit which is scheduled to be held in Johannesburg will have leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa

After concluding his two-day visit to Africa, Prime Minister Modi on Wednesday took off for the final leg of his three-nation trip to South Africa. The Prime Minister headed for South Africa to attend the BRICS 2018 Summit. 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 × The summit which is scheduled to be held in Johannesburg will have leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Besides this, the Summit will also have several African leaders invited as guests. The theme of the 2018 BRICS Summit is "BRICS in Africa". The Summit will be held for three days and will focus on the threat of a US-led global trade war.

PM Modi reaches South Africa to attend BRICS 2018

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/live-pakistan-general-election-2018--pakistan-all-set-to-vote-today-amid-high-security-and-allegations-of-army-meddling-154268">Live: Pakistan goes to polls as voting begins across 85,000 booths</a>

Voting begins across the nation in over 85,000 polling booths

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/i-am-in-regular-communication-with-david-headley-lawyer-154286">I am in regular communication with David Headley: Lawyer</a>

After widespread speculation on David Coleman Headley's apparent death in a jail attack by inmates, his lawyer said the 26/11 Mumbai attack plotter is neither in Chicago nor in hospital.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/1000-coffins-set-up-amidst-fear-of-violence-ahead-of-pakistan-general-elections-154285">1000 coffins set up amidst fear of violence ahead of Pakistan general elections</a>

Amidst fear of violence seen by Pakistan ahead of the general elections due today, the Peshawar's deputy commissioner announced that around 1000 'kafans' (coffins) will be arranged on the polling day.&nbsp

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/-us-ready-to-make-a-real-deal-on-irans-nuclear-program-says-trump-154288">US</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/-us-ready-to-make-a-real-deal-on-irans-nuclear-program-says-trump-154288"> ready to make a 'real deal' on Iran’s nuclear program says </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/-us-ready-to-make-a-real-deal-on-irans-nuclear-program-says-trump-154288">Trump</a>

The United States President Donald Trump kept open the possibility of negotiating an agreement to denuclearise Iran, two days after he authored an angry warning to the nation on Twitter.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/harley-davidson-no-us-sales-hit-from-job-offshoring-dustup-154284">Harley-Davidson: No US sales hit from job offshoring dustup</a>

Harley-Davidson executives said Tuesday they had seen no US sales hit so far over the decision to relocate some American manufacturing overseas as the company navigates trade conflicts.

&nbsp

Live: Pakistan goes to polls as voting begins across 85,000 booths Voting begins across the nation in over 85,000 polling booths I am in regular communication with David Headley: Lawyer After widespread speculation on David Coleman Headley's apparent death in a jail attack by inmates, his lawyer said the 26/11 Mumbai attack plotter is neither in Chicago nor in hospital. 1000 coffins set up amidst fear of violence ahead of Pakistan general elections Amidst fear of violence seen by Pakistan ahead of the general elections due today, the Peshawar's deputy commissioner announced that around 1000 'kafans' (coffins) will be arranged on the polling day. US ready to make a 'real deal' on Iran’s nuclear program says Trump The United States President Donald Trump kept open the possibility of negotiating an agreement to denuclearise Iran, two days after he authored an angry warning to the nation on Twitter. Harley-Davidson: No US sales hit from job offshoring dustup Harley-Davidson executives said Tuesday they had seen no US sales hit so far over the decision to relocate some American manufacturing overseas as the company navigates trade conflicts.

News brief: Big stories of the day

At least 13 children and a helper at an Anganwadi center in Uttam Nagar were hospitalised on Tuesday allegedly after consuming mid-day meal in Delhi.&nbsp

The children complained of vomiting and lost consciousness after consuming mid-day meal today, the police said. They were being treated at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, they added.

Rice and boiled gram were served to the children and pregnant women at the anganwadi centre which was supplied by a group based in Uttam Nagar’s Deepak Vihar, a police official said.&nbsp

The anganwadi centre was being run for last 11 years by one Anita, (47) a resident of Hastal Vihar in Dwarka’s Uttam Nagar, he said, adding the centre has 46 children and 13 pregnant women.

A case was registered in connection with the incident. No person has been arrested yet.

Rice and boiled gram were served to the children and pregnant women at the anganwadi centre which was supplied by a group based in Uttam Nagar’s Deepak Vihar, a police official said.

At least 13 children and a helper at an Anganwadi center in Uttam Nagar were hospitalised on Tuesday allegedly after consuming mid-day meal in Delhi. The children complained of vomiting and lost consciousness after consuming mid-day meal today, the police said. They were being treated at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, they added. Rice and boiled gram were served to the children and pregnant women at the anganwadi centre which was supplied by a group based in Uttam Nagar’s Deepak Vihar, a police official said. The anganwadi centre was being run for last 11 years by one Anita, (47) a resident of Hastal Vihar in Dwarka’s Uttam Nagar, he said, adding the centre has 46 children and 13 pregnant women. A case was registered in connection with the incident. No person has been arrested yet.

Delhi: 13 children hospitalised after consuming mid-day meal

The SIT probing journalist- activist Gauri Lankesh's killing has stumbled upon a diary with a 'hit-list' which has the name of film and theatre personality Girish Karnad's name on top, police said today.

Karnad was among the most vocal critics of hardline Hindutva whose security was beefed up following the killing of Lankesh in September last year.

Lankesh's name figures second among the intended targets in the diary which was recovered last month from the suspects arrested in connection with her killing.

"There is a list of targets prepared by a radical Hindu group. The names of Karnad and Lankesh have been mentioned at slot number 1 and 2. We are investigating further," a member of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) said. 
The entries, he said, have been made in Devnagri script.

The names of politician-litterateur B T Lalitha Naik, pontiff Veerabhadra Channamalla Swamy of Nidumamidi Mutt and rationalist C S Dwarakanath also figure in the list. All of them are bitter critics of the Hindu right.

When reached for comments on the recovery of the diary and his name on the hit-list, Karnad, tersely said, "I have no interest in all this. Thanks."

The SIT has, meanwhile, arrested the 10th suspect in the Lankesh murder case. Rajesh D Bangera, 50, was arrested from Madikeri in Kodagu district on July 23.

He was produced before a magistrate yesterday and remanded in SIT custody till August 6.

Police did not disclose the role of Bangera in Lankesh's killing but said he was in touch with arrested suspects Amol Kale and Amit Degwekar. Parashuram Waghmare, who is suspected to have pulled the trigger on Lankesh, is among those arrested.

Gauri, who held strong anti-Hidutva views and voiced them freely, was shot dead at the entrance to her house in Bengaluru's Rajarajeshwari Nagar area on September 5 last year, triggering a nationwide outrage.&nbsp

Lankesh's name figures second among the intended targets in the diary which was recovered last month from the suspects arrested in connection with her killing

The SIT probing journalist- activist Gauri Lankesh's killing has stumbled upon a diary with a 'hit-list' which has the name of film and theatre personality Girish Karnad's name on top, police said today. Karnad was among the most vocal critics of hardline Hindutva whose security was beefed up following the killing of Lankesh in September last year. Lankesh's name figures second among the intended targets in the diary which was recovered last month from the suspects arrested in connection with her killing. "There is a list of targets prepared by a radical Hindu group. The names of Karnad and Lankesh have been mentioned at slot number 1 and 2. We are investigating further," a member of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) said. The entries, he said, have been made in Devnagri script. The names of politician-litterateur B T Lalitha Naik, pontiff Veerabhadra Channamalla Swamy of Nidumamidi Mutt and rationalist C S Dwarakanath also figure in the list. All of them are bitter critics of the Hindu right. When reached for comments on the recovery of the diary and his name on the hit-list, Karnad, tersely said, "I have no interest in all this. Thanks." The SIT has, meanwhile, arrested the 10th suspect in the Lankesh murder case. Rajesh D Bangera, 50, was arrested from Madikeri in Kodagu district on July 23. He was produced before a magistrate yesterday and remanded in SIT custody till August 6. Police did not disclose the role of Bangera in Lankesh's killing but said he was in touch with arrested suspects Amol Kale and Amit Degwekar. Parashuram Waghmare, who is suspected to have pulled the trigger on Lankesh, is among those arrested. Gauri, who held strong anti-Hidutva views and voiced them freely, was shot dead at the entrance to her house in Bengaluru's Rajarajeshwari Nagar area on September 5 last year, triggering a nationwide outrage.

Gauri Lankesh murder probe: Cops come across diary with 'hit-list'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni unveiled a bust of India's first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Indian community event they addressed in Kampala.

"Saluting the 'Loh Purush'! PM @narendramodi and Ugandan President Museveni unveil the bust of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Indian community reception," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet, which accompanied two photographs of the two leaders.

The Ugandan president remained present throughout the nearly 30-minute address of PM Modi and also spoke at the event.

"Ugandan President Museveni was effusive in his praise for the Indian community in Uganda. In his address at the community reception, he praised them for their hard work and contribution in the economic development of Uganda," the MEA spokesperson said on Twitter.

In his address, PM Modi lauded the contribution of the Indian community in the growth of Uganda. He thanked Museveni for re-embracing the Indian community.

Modi on Tuesday said that India will gift a cancer therapy machine to Uganda as a token of love.

"As a token of our love towards people of Uganda, Indian Government has decided to gift a cancer therapy machine to the Uganda Cancer Institute in Kampala, which will not only serve the people of Uganda but also the people of many East African countries," the Prime Minister said following the delegation-level talks between the two nation.

"We have agreed upon two Lines of Credit worth nearly US $200 million and we will also give vehicles and ambulances for military and civilian use," he added.

Earlier, President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni said that the two leaders discussed "trade, investment and tourism" in their meeting.

In his address, PM Modi lauded the contribution of the Indian community in the growth of Uganda. He thanked Museveni for re-embracing the Indian community.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni unveiled a bust of India's first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Indian community event they addressed in Kampala. "Saluting the 'Loh Purush'! PM @narendramodi and Ugandan President Museveni unveil the bust of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the Indian community reception," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet, which accompanied two photographs of the two leaders. The Ugandan president remained present throughout the nearly 30-minute address of PM Modi and also spoke at the event. "Ugandan President Museveni was effusive in his praise for the Indian community in Uganda. In his address at the community reception, he praised them for their hard work and contribution in the economic development of Uganda," the MEA spokesperson said on Twitter. In his address, PM Modi lauded the contribution of the Indian community in the growth of Uganda. He thanked Museveni for re-embracing the Indian community. Modi on Tuesday said that India will gift a cancer therapy machine to Uganda as a token of love. "As a token of our love towards people of Uganda, Indian Government has decided to gift a cancer therapy machine to the Uganda Cancer Institute in Kampala, which will not only serve the people of Uganda but also the people of many East African countries," the Prime Minister said following the delegation-level talks between the two nation. "We have agreed upon two Lines of Credit worth nearly US $200 million and we will also give vehicles and ambulances for military and civilian use," he added. Earlier, President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni said that the two leaders discussed "trade, investment and tourism" in their meeting.

PM Modi unveils bust of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Uganda

Congress sources say that the party is ready to accept any candidate from the position as the next PM who does not have backing of the RSS.

WION Dispatch: Congress party ready to sacrifice position of PM candidate

&nbsp

NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant on Tuesday said that India is ranked "very poorly" on the human development index, adding that if the situation remains the same then India "cannot grow for a long period of time".

Kant's comments came while addressing a session on the development of Aspirational Districts by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in the national capital.

"We are still ranked very poorly on the human development index - that is 131 out of 188 nations. You can't have growth in some parts of India while complete backwardness in the other parts. If this continues then India cannot grow for a long period of time," Kant said.

"Unless we don't improve in key areas, the pace of growth in some of these states will be very slow," he added.

Kant asserted that providing proper nutrition to the population is a big challenge and it is a matter of concern that children in the country are malnourished.

Kant's comments came while addressing a session on the development of Aspirational Districts by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in the national capital.

NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant on Tuesday said that India is ranked "very poorly" on the human development index, adding that if the situation remains the same then India "cannot grow for a long period of time". Kant's comments came while addressing a session on the development of Aspirational Districts by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in the national capital. "We are still ranked very poorly on the human development index - that is 131 out of 188 nations. You can't have growth in some parts of India while complete backwardness in the other parts. If this continues then India cannot grow for a long period of time," Kant said. "Unless we don't improve in key areas, the pace of growth in some of these states will be very slow," he added. Kant asserted that providing proper nutrition to the population is a big challenge and it is a matter of concern that children in the country are malnourished.

'India ranked very poorly on Human Development Index': NITI Aayog chief

BJP MLA Gyan Dev Ahuja today demanded the release of three persons arrested for allegedly lynching 28-year old Rakbar Khan on suspicion of the victim's involvement in smuggling cows.

Ahuja made the demand after state <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/rakbars-death-looks-custodial-rajasthan-home-minister-on-alwar-lynching-case-154228">Home Minister Gulabchand Kataria ordered a judicial inquiry</a> considering Khan's demise a case of 'custodial death'.&nbsp

"The home minister has acknowledged that Akbar alias Rakbar Khan, who was accused of cow smuggling, died in police custody. It was repeatedly said by the MLA that he was not killed by the people and he died in police custody. When the home minister has admitted the fact of the custodial death, why innocent cow vigilantes and villagers are being made accused"&nbspa statement issued by Ahuja's office said.&nbsp

"They should be released with immediate effect. It is also demanded that the second accused of cow smuggling Aslam be arrested immediately,"&nbspthe statement said.&nbsp

Akbar and Aslam were taking two cows from Alwar to their village in Haryana on Friday-Saturday night through a forest area when a group of people spotted them and caught Rakbar. He was badly beaten while Aslam managed to escape.&nbsp

The victim was taken to the community health center in Ramgarh by the police after a delay of nearly two and a half hours and he was declared brought dead at the CHC.&nbsp

As per the FIR lodged by the police, the two had purchased the cows from Ladpur village and the police are now verifying whether they had indeed purchased the animals.

"It is already part of our investigation whether the two cows were legally purchased by Rakbar and Aslam," Special DGP NRK Reddy said.

The home minister had yesterday visited the area where the incident had occurred in Alwar and had announced his decision to order a judicial inquiry in the case, in which three persons have been arrested.&nbsp

On charges of dereliction of duty, an assistant sub inspector of Ramgarh police station was suspended and three constables were shunted to lines.&nbsp

The home minister has acknowledged that Akbar alias Rakbar Khan, who was accused of cow smuggling, died in police custody

BJP MLA Gyan Dev Ahuja today demanded the release of three persons arrested for allegedly lynching 28-year old Rakbar Khan on suspicion of the victim's involvement in smuggling cows. Ahuja made the demand after state Home Minister Gulabchand Kataria ordered a judicial inquiry considering Khan's demise a case of 'custodial death'. "The home minister has acknowledged that Akbar alias Rakbar Khan, who was accused of cow smuggling, died in police custody. It was repeatedly said by the MLA that he was not killed by the people and he died in police custody. When the home minister has admitted the fact of the custodial death, why innocent cow vigilantes and villagers are being made accused"&nbspa statement issued by Ahuja's office said. "They should be released with immediate effect. It is also demanded that the second accused of cow smuggling Aslam be arrested immediately,"&nbspthe statement said. Akbar and Aslam were taking two cows from Alwar to their village in Haryana on Friday-Saturday night through a forest area when a group of people spotted them and caught Rakbar. He was badly beaten while Aslam managed to escape. The victim was taken to the community health center in Ramgarh by the police after a delay of nearly two and a half hours and he was declared brought dead at the CHC. As per the FIR lodged by the police, the two had purchased the cows from Ladpur village and the police are now verifying whether they had indeed purchased the animals. "It is already part of our investigation whether the two cows were legally purchased by Rakbar and Aslam," Special DGP NRK Reddy said. The home minister had yesterday visited the area where the incident had occurred in Alwar and had announced his decision to order a judicial inquiry in the case, in which three persons have been arrested. On charges of dereliction of duty, an assistant sub inspector of Ramgarh police station was suspended and three constables were shunted to lines.

BJP MLA demands release of cow vigilantes arrested in Alwar lynching case

The Left parties on Tuesday staged a protest at Parliament premises, accusing the BJP government in Tripura and the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal of "murdering" democracy and violating human rights in the two states.

Lawmakers of the Left parties alleged that there has been an increasing number of incidents in the two states where human rights and political freedom of people have come under severe threat.

"The change of regime in both states has been accompanied by an unprecedented, sustained violence and attacks in all spheres against the members and supporters of the Left parties. In Tripura, it is the BJP-RSS combine which is leading the attacks on the Left and in Bengal it is the TMC which is unleashing the violence," CPI(M) leader Mohammed Salim told reporters.

The Trinamool Congress also staged a sit-in at the same time in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue in Parliament premises accusing the BJP of patronising the culprits behind the incidents of lynching across the country.

Both the protesters of the Left parties and Trinamool were seen facing each other while shouting slogans just before the start of the session on Tuesday.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>TMC leader Derek O'Brien alleged, "The BJP government is behind incidents of lynching all over the country.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi should tell us why these incidents are happening. They are trying to divide India. Stop lynching. Stop politics of hatred. We are for an united India," he said.

Interestingly, while the Telugu Desam Party joined the protest of TMC, RJD leaders were seen joining the protest by the Left parties.

Later, both the Left and Trinamool lawmakers took up their issues during the zero hour in the Lok Sabha.

Lawmakers of the Left parties alleged that there has been an increasing number of incidents in the two states where human rights and political freedom of people have come under severe threat.

The Left parties on Tuesday staged a protest at Parliament premises, accusing the BJP government in Tripura and the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal of "murdering" democracy and violating human rights in the two states. Lawmakers of the Left parties alleged that there has been an increasing number of incidents in the two states where human rights and political freedom of people have come under severe threat. "The change of regime in both states has been accompanied by an unprecedented, sustained violence and attacks in all spheres against the members and supporters of the Left parties. In Tripura, it is the BJP-RSS combine which is leading the attacks on the Left and in Bengal it is the TMC which is unleashing the violence," CPI(M) leader Mohammed Salim told reporters. The Trinamool Congress also staged a sit-in at the same time in front of the Mahatma Gandhi statue in Parliament premises accusing the BJP of patronising the culprits behind the incidents of lynching across the country. Both the protesters of the Left parties and Trinamool were seen facing each other while shouting slogans just before the start of the session on Tuesday. TMC leader Derek O'Brien alleged, "The BJP government is behind incidents of lynching all over the country. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi should tell us why these incidents are happening. They are trying to divide India. Stop lynching. Stop politics of hatred. We are for an united India," he said. Interestingly, while the Telugu Desam Party joined the protest of TMC, RJD leaders were seen joining the protest by the Left parties. Later, both the Left and Trinamool lawmakers took up their issues during the zero hour in the Lok Sabha.

BJP, Trinamool 'murdering' democracy in Tripura, Bengal, say left parties

In an address to the Parliament of Uganda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today listed ten principles to guide India's engagement with Africa.

In his first principle, the PM promised to keep Africa as a top Indian priority.

He said, "One, Africa will be at the top of our priorities. We will continue to intensify and deepen our engagement with Africa. As we have shown, it will be sustained and regular".

He also promised that this India-Africa development partnership will be guided by Africa's priorities.

"Two, our development partnership will be guided by your priorities. It will be on terms that will be comfortable for you, that will liberate your potential and not constrain your future. We will build as much local capacity and create as much local opportunities as possible".

"Three, we will keep our markets open and make it easier and more attractive to trade with India. We will support our industry to invest in Africa", he added.

"Four, we will harness India’s experience with digital revolution to support Africa’s development, improve delivery of public services, extend education and health, spread digital literacy, expand financial inclusion and mainstream the marginalised".

"Five, Africa has 60% of the world’s arable land, but produces just 10% of the global output. We will work with you to improve Africa’s agriculture. Six, our partnership will address the challenges of climate change".

"Seven, we will strengthen our cooperation and mutual capabilities in combating terrorism and extremism, keeping our cyberspace safe and secure and supporting the UN in advancing and keeping peace".

"Eight, we will work with African nations to keep the oceans open and free for the benefit of all nations. The world needs cooperation and not competition in the eastern shores of Africa and the eastern Indian Ocean".

"Nine, as global engagement in Africa increases. We must all work together to ensure that Africa does not once again turn into a theatre of rival ambitions but becomes a nursery for the aspirations of Africa’s youth".

"Ten, just as India and Africa fought colonialism together, we will work together for a just, representative and democratic global order that has a voice and a role for one-third of humanity that lives in Africa and India".

Stating that India was proud to be in partnership with Africa, the prime minister also said, "Uganda is central to our commitment to the continent. I announced yesterday two Lines of Credit for Uganda. The first, of US$ 141 million for electricity lines and the second, of US$ 64 million for agriculture & dairy production"

He said India's principles of independence movement which includes the universal quest for liberty, dignity, equality and opportunity for every human being applied the most to Africa.

Referring to the shared struggle for independence, ancient maritime links, dark age of colonialism, uncertain paths as independent countries in a divided world, the dawn of the new opportunities and unity of aspirations of our young population, he laid emphasis on how India was connected to Africa.

The PM also said that they would <a href="http://wionews.com/world/mahatama-gandhi-heritage-centre-to-be-built-in-jinja-declares-modi-in-uganda-parliament-154450">build a Gandhi Heritage Centre in Africa in Jinja</a> where a statue of Gandhi ji stands.

"At the sacred site in Jinja,where a statue of Gandhi ji stands, we'll build a Gandhi Heritage Centre. As we approach 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi,there can be no better homage than a Centre to remind us of Africa’s role in shaping his mission" he said.

Our partnership currently includes implementation of 180 Lines of Credit worth about US$ 11 billion in over 40 African countries. In last Africa-India Forum Summit, we had committed a concessional Line of Credit of US$ 10 billion & US$ 600 million in grant assistance.

India pursued Afro-Asian solidarity in Bandung. We stood firm in opposition to apartheid in South Africa. We took leading and bold positions in former Rhodesia – now Zimbabwe, in Guinea Bassau, Angola and Namibia".

PM Modi who is on a two-day visit to Africa is the&nbsp;first Indian prime minister to address the Ugandan Parliament.

He met the President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni on Monday and discussed trade, investment and tourism with him.

(With inputs from ANI)

Modi listed the 10 principles in Uganda's Parliament. 'Africa will be at the top of our priorities. We will continue to intensify and deepen our engagement with Africa. As we have shown, it will be sustained and regular,' he said

In an address to the Parliament of Uganda, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today listed ten principles to guide India's engagement with Africa. In his first principle, the PM promised to keep Africa as a top Indian priority. He said, "One, Africa will be at the top of our priorities. We will continue to intensify and deepen our engagement with Africa. As we have shown, it will be sustained and regular". He also promised that this India-Africa development partnership will be guided by Africa's priorities. "Two, our development partnership will be guided by your priorities. It will be on terms that will be comfortable for you, that will liberate your potential and not constrain your future. We will build as much local capacity and create as much local opportunities as possible". "Three, we will keep our markets open and make it easier and more attractive to trade with India. We will support our industry to invest in Africa", he added. "Four, we will harness India’s experience with digital revolution to support Africa’s development, improve delivery of public services, extend education and health, spread digital literacy, expand financial inclusion and mainstream the marginalised". "Five, Africa has 60% of the world’s arable land, but produces just 10% of the global output. We will work with you to improve Africa’s agriculture. Six, our partnership will address the challenges of climate change". "Seven, we will strengthen our cooperation and mutual capabilities in combating terrorism and extremism, keeping our cyberspace safe and secure and supporting the UN in advancing and keeping peace". "Eight, we will work with African nations to keep the oceans open and free for the benefit of all nations. The world needs cooperation and not competition in the eastern shores of Africa and the eastern Indian Ocean". "Nine, as global engagement in Africa increases. We must all work together to ensure that Africa does not once again turn into a theatre of rival ambitions but becomes a nursery for the aspirations of Africa’s youth". "Ten, just as India and Africa fought colonialism together, we will work together for a just, representative and democratic global order that has a voice and a role for one-third of humanity that lives in Africa and India". Stating that India was proud to be in partnership with Africa, the prime minister also said, "Uganda is central to our commitment to the continent. I announced yesterday two Lines of Credit for Uganda. The first, of US$ 141 million for electricity lines and the second, of US$ 64 million for agriculture & dairy production" He said India's principles of independence movement which includes the universal quest for liberty, dignity, equality and opportunity for every human being applied the most to Africa. Referring to the shared struggle for independence, ancient maritime links, dark age of colonialism, uncertain paths as independent countries in a divided world, the dawn of the new opportunities and unity of aspirations of our young population, he laid emphasis on how India was connected to Africa. The PM also said that they would build a Gandhi Heritage Centre in Africa in Jinja where a statue of Gandhi ji stands. "At the sacred site in Jinja,where a statue of Gandhi ji stands, we'll build a Gandhi Heritage Centre. As we approach 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi,there can be no better homage than a Centre to remind us of Africa’s role in shaping his mission" he said. Our partnership currently includes implementation of 180 Lines of Credit worth about US$ 11 billion in over 40 African countries. In last Africa-India Forum Summit, we had committed a concessional Line of Credit of US$ 10 billion & US$ 600 million in grant assistance. India pursued Afro-Asian solidarity in Bandung. We stood firm in opposition to apartheid in South Africa. We took leading and bold positions in former Rhodesia – now Zimbabwe, in Guinea Bassau, Angola and Namibia". PM Modi who is on a two-day visit to Africa is the first Indian prime minister to address the Ugandan Parliament. He met the President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni on Monday and discussed trade, investment and tourism with him. (With inputs from ANI)

Modi's 10 principles to guide India's engagement with Africa

Spelling trouble for O Panneerselvam, the Madras High Court directed today an anti-graft body to complete a preliminary probe "as expeditiously as possible" into a complaint lodged against Graft charges against the Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister for amassing wealth above his known sources of income.

The matter pertains to a complaint lodged by DMK MP R S Bharathi with the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in March, on behalf of his party.

When the matter came up before Justice Jayachandran, Advocate General Vijay Narayan, who appeared on behalf of the state government, said as per a circular dated July 18, a preliminary inquiry has been ordered based on the information furnished by Bharathi.

Justice G Jayachandran disposed of petitions filed by Bharathi and another one by an organisation named 'Arappor Iyakkam' represented by Jairam Venkatesh seeking a direction to the DVAC to probe the complaint.

"...The inquiry has to be completed as expeditiously as possible...," the judge said.

"In so far as other petition by Arappor Iyakkam is concerned, the information furnished will be taken note of in the case of investigation," Justice Jayachandran said.

In his petition, Bharathi alleged that the senior AIADMK leader had amassed wealth by abusing his power gained unlawfully and invested the same in companies and properties either in his name or that of his "benamis".

He alleged that for this purpose, Panneerselvam had made false declarations before the Income Tax authorities and election officials.

Alleging that the DVAC had not acted on his complaint till date, the petitioner said the high court had already made it clear that when a complaint was given against a public servant, the vigilance department had to look into it directly and that no prior sanction was needed.

Referring to the various lands owned by Panneerselvam, the petitioner alleged that in his election affidavit he had not disclosed details of the plots and the income earned from them, which has to be investigated.

Land valued at more than Rs 140 crore was leased out to benamis of OPS, the petitioner alleged.

He also alleged that Panneerselvam's son was a director in many companies and they had purchased several acres of land worth over Rs 68 crore.

Bharathi sought a direction to the DVAC to register a case and investigate the complaint against the deputy chief minister.

The court had earlier asked the anti-graft body to explain why no probe was initiated even three months after a complaint was lodged against Panneerselvam.

It also sought to know why a CBI probe should not be ordered into the allegations against the AIADMK leader.&nbsp

The matter pertains to a complaint lodged by DMK MP R S Bharathi with the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in March, on behalf of his party

Spelling trouble for O Panneerselvam, the Madras High Court directed today an anti-graft body to complete a preliminary probe "as expeditiously as possible" into a complaint lodged against Graft charges against the Tamil Nadu deputy chief minister for amassing wealth above his known sources of income. The matter pertains to a complaint lodged by DMK MP R S Bharathi with the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC) in March, on behalf of his party. When the matter came up before Justice Jayachandran, Advocate General Vijay Narayan, who appeared on behalf of the state government, said as per a circular dated July 18, a preliminary inquiry has been ordered based on the information furnished by Bharathi. Justice G Jayachandran disposed of petitions filed by Bharathi and another one by an organisation named 'Arappor Iyakkam' represented by Jairam Venkatesh seeking a direction to the DVAC to probe the complaint. "...The inquiry has to be completed as expeditiously as possible...," the judge said. "In so far as other petition by Arappor Iyakkam is concerned, the information furnished will be taken note of in the case of investigation," Justice Jayachandran said. In his petition, Bharathi alleged that the senior AIADMK leader had amassed wealth by abusing his power gained unlawfully and invested the same in companies and properties either in his name or that of his "benamis". He alleged that for this purpose, Panneerselvam had made false declarations before the Income Tax authorities and election officials. Alleging that the DVAC had not acted on his complaint till date, the petitioner said the high court had already made it clear that when a complaint was given against a public servant, the vigilance department had to look into it directly and that no prior sanction was needed. Referring to the various lands owned by Panneerselvam, the petitioner alleged that in his election affidavit he had not disclosed details of the plots and the income earned from them, which has to be investigated. Land valued at more than Rs 140 crore was leased out to benamis of OPS, the petitioner alleged. He also alleged that Panneerselvam's son was a director in many companies and they had purchased several acres of land worth over Rs 68 crore. Bharathi sought a direction to the DVAC to register a case and investigate the complaint against the deputy chief minister. The court had earlier asked the anti-graft body to explain why no probe was initiated even three months after a complaint was lodged against Panneerselvam. It also sought to know why a CBI probe should not be ordered into the allegations against the AIADMK leader.

Graft charges against OPS: High Court directs DVAC to complete probe 'expeditiously'

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Graft charges against OPS: High Court directs DVAC to complete probe 'expeditiously'