US vs China over South China Sea: Washington backs Philippines, Beijing hits back

Bigg Boss 20: Isha Rikhi evicted after three weeks in Salman Khan’s show

Musk plans to more than double xAI's chips to over 1.2 million Nvidia GPUs by year-end

After JU, clash erupts at SRFTI: BJP’s ‘Dimagi Naxal’ jibe sparks political firestorm after students protest RSS-linked event

‘Anti-social elements spreading false rumours’: LPU issues statement amid massive unrest over alleged rape

LPU students go on rampage, vandalise campus amid widespread protest: What's happening

Trump asked Xi to pressure Iran. China did not say yes — here’s what Beijing wants

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent hails global crackdown on Iranian banks and airlines

An OpenAI agent escaped its locked test cage again, by hiding questions in DNS lookups

'Our video was trimmed': LPU girls who featured in rape-denial video make U-turn

3 males killed, four others injured in shooting after fight at strip club in Detroit

'Victory for low-budget consumers': Raghav Chadha hails 30-day telecom recharge rules

Claude rebuilt the 1989 game 'Prince of Persia' by reusing the original's own code

Beyond metros: How Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities could drive India’s next AI wave

Tesla builds first Cybertruck with its own refined lithium: Elon Musk's $1 billion Texas bet pays off

IndiGo flight suffers tail strike in Bengaluru while landing; DGCA to probe incident

The US and China set up an AI 'red telephone', but skipped the rulebook

‘Terror suspects arrested near UK air base were looking to do big damage’: Trump

Russian envoy claims US tactics to contain India were revealed in ‘Freudian slip’

IND vs WI 1st ODI: Kohli breaks Sachin's most runs in one country record with unbeaten 139 as India thump West Indies by 8 wickets

Researchers rebuilt exactly how 700 AI agents hacked Hugging Face: a 900-link chain trick

‘Olympic inclusion is our major target’: WPA President Ishaun Singh on pool’s global ambitions

Nations League: Spain sink England at Wembley; Modric shines for Croatia

Why has Iran released no proof of life of Mojtaba Khamenei? Araghchi reveals...

'What kind of confession is this?': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s 'terrorists would be roaming New York' remark goes viral, raises alarm online. Watch

South Korea demands apology from Ukraine over North Korean prisoners' transfer

Beyond BrahMos: India targets Rs 50,000 crore in defence exports with unmatched price edge

Sri Lankan Tamil migrant worker gets death sentence in Saudi Arabia, help sought from India

Muslim marriage cannot shield sex with minor wife from prosecution under POCSO: Delhi HC

'Can't help but draw painful parallels to Nirbhaya case': SC on latest incidents of rape cases in Delhi-NCR

99.9% more powerful - Scientists find boy who can recall memories from just 3 months of age

'FIRST LOOK from inside Noah’s Ark': Researchers share video from inside mysterious mound in Turkey

UNSC reform momentum grows: Russia, Portugal, Mauritius push for India's permanent seat bid

8 US marines injured in Iranian missile attack on vessel in Strait of Hormuz: Report

New OTT releases this week (September 28-October 4, 2026): Dupahiya 2, Pooja Meri Jaan, Ohh My Dog- 5 titles coming on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Afghanistan says 28 fighters killed in clash near Pakistan border, Islamabad denies

Ceuta migrant crisis: Protesters take to streets as Spain grapples with migrant challenge

LPU suspend classes, postpones exams as violence escalates over rape claims: What's happening

New York City wants a 'kill switch' on every AI, and will pay whistleblowers who report violations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday assured that "no citizen of India will have to leave the country" if the name does not appear in the <a href="wionews.com/india-news/india-belongs-to-indians-not-to-illegal-immigrants-union-minister-kiren-rijiju-158513">NRC list</a>, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"I want to assure the people that no citizen of India will have to leave the country. As per the due process, all possible opportunities will be given to get their concerns addressed," PM Modi said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I want to assure the people that no citizen of India will have to leave the country. As per the due process, all possible opportunities will be given to get their concerns addressed: PM Narendra Modi on NRC <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMtoANI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMtoANI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028333278216957952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

PM Modi also reacted to West Bengal Chief Minister's "bloodbath" remark noting that those who fear the loss of popular support or lack faith in themselves use such words.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
My party and I have spoken in clear words, on multiple occasions against such actions and such a mindset. It is all on record: PM Modi on Opposition's charge that PM is silent over incidents of crime against women and incidents of lynching. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMtoANI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMtoANI</a> <a href="https://t.co/7Q9ivOvDcS">https://t.co/7Q9ivOvDcS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028335653392531456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Those who have lost faith in themselves, fear the loss of popular support and lack faith in our institutions can use words like ‘civil war’, ‘bloodbath’ and ‘Desh Ke Tukde Tukde.’ Evidently, they are disconnected from the pulse of the nation," the Prime Minister added.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Those who have lost faith in themselves,fear loss of popular support and lack faith in our institutions can use words like ‘civil war’,‘blood bath’ and ‘Desh Ke Tukde Tukde.’ Evidently, they are disconnected from the pulse of the nation: PM on Mamata Banerjee's statement on NRC
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028333149564985344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee had stated that a <a href="wionews.com/india-news/there-will-be-civil-war-bloodbath-because-of-assams-nrc-mamata-banerjee-156044">"bloodbath" will take place</a> if the NRC issue is not resolved.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The Congress President tried his best to provoke people against GST during Gujarat elections, why did the people reject him?: PM Modi on Rahul Gandhi's 'Gabbar Singh Tax' analogy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMtoANI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMtoANI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028335832070008836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, BJP President Amit Shah on Saturday lashed out at Banerjee for opposing the NRC draft enquiring <a href="wionews.com/india-news/why-is-mamata-protecting-bangladeshi-infiltrators-well-throw-tmc-out-of-bengal-amit-shah--158461">why is she "protecting Bangladeshi infiltrators</a>".

Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera stated that <a href="wionews.com/india-news/congress-not-against-nrc-but-way-it-is-being-implemented-in-assam-pawan-khera-158534">the party does not oppose the NRC draft</a> but the way it is being implemented in Assam. He added that doing politics over NRC is going to be "very dangerous".

 
&nbsp;

'I want to assure the people that no citizen of India will have to leave the country,' Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday assured that "no citizen of India will have to leave the country" if the name does not appear in the NRC list, news agency ANI reported. "I want to assure the people that no citizen of India will have to leave the country. As per the due process, all possible opportunities will be given to get their concerns addressed," PM Modi said. I want to assure the people that no citizen of India will have to leave the country. As per the due process, all possible opportunities will be given to get their concerns addressed: PM Narendra Modi on NRC #PMtoANI — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2018 × PM Modi also reacted to West Bengal Chief Minister's "bloodbath" remark noting that those who fear the loss of popular support or lack faith in themselves use such words. My party and I have spoken in clear words, on multiple occasions against such actions and such a mindset. It is all on record: PM Modi on Opposition's charge that PM is silent over incidents of crime against women and incidents of lynching. #PMtoANI https://t.co/7Q9ivOvDcS — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2018 × "Those who have lost faith in themselves, fear the loss of popular support and lack faith in our institutions can use words like ‘civil war’, ‘bloodbath’ and ‘Desh Ke Tukde Tukde.’ Evidently, they are disconnected from the pulse of the nation," the Prime Minister added. Those who have lost faith in themselves,fear loss of popular support and lack faith in our institutions can use words like ‘civil war’,‘blood bath’ and ‘Desh Ke Tukde Tukde.’ Evidently, they are disconnected from the pulse of the nation: PM on Mamata Banerjee's statement on NRC — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2018 × West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee had stated that a "bloodbath" will take place if the NRC issue is not resolved. The Congress President tried his best to provoke people against GST during Gujarat elections, why did the people reject him?: PM Modi on Rahul Gandhi's 'Gabbar Singh Tax' analogy #PMtoANI — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2018 × Meanwhile, BJP President Amit Shah on Saturday lashed out at Banerjee for opposing the NRC draft enquiring why is she "protecting Bangladeshi infiltrators". Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera stated that the party does not oppose the NRC draft but the way it is being implemented in Assam. He added that doing politics over NRC is going to be "very dangerous".

NRC row: PM Modi slams Mamata’s ‘bloodbath’ comment, says 'no citizen of India will have to leave country'

A CBI team on Saturday&nbsp;took into custody the son of Brajesh Thakur, prime accused in the shelter home sex scandal, after 11 hours of search operation and questioning at the premises owned by them.

The CBI team, which had reached Thakur's Sahu Road residence at around 9 am, left at around 8 pm with his son Rahul Anand.

Anand is the publisher and editor of Hindi daily "Pratah Kamal", the office of which is situated within the same premises as the residence and the shelter home which have since been sealed.

Headed by DIG Abhay Kumar, the CBI team was flanked by a number of armed commandoes who locked the main gate of the premises from inside, preventing entry of mediapersons and a number of other curious onlookers.

The CBI team, which was also accompanied by a number of forensic experts, is understood to have inspected the shelter home after getting its seal opened, and collected documents and other items it found to be of value in the investigation.

CBI sleuths also inspected the courtyard, which was dug up last month by the police, following allegations by inmates that one of the girls was beaten to death by staff members a few years ago and her body was buried at the spot.

Nothing incriminating was found after the day-long excavation and the eight-feet-deep pit was again filled up.

The CBI deployed heavy earth mover machines at the site but no excavation took place during the day.

Thakur, who is in jail, heads the NGO Seva Sankalp Evam Vika Samiti, which ran the state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates has been confirmed in medical tests.

The Bihar government had cancelled the registration of the NGO earlier this week.

Sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home first came to light in the report of a social&nbsp;audit conducted by Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, which was submitted to the state social welfare department in April.

The FIR in the case was registered on May 31 against 11 people, including Thakur. On July 26, the Bihar government recommended a CBI inquiry in the matter.

Bihar social welfare department minister Manju Verma had to resign after links of her husband with the key accused Brajesh Thakur surfaced.

The CBI team, which had reached Thakur's Sahu Road residence at around 9 am, left at around 8 pm with his son Rahul Anand.

A CBI team on Saturday took into custody the son of Brajesh Thakur, prime accused in the shelter home sex scandal, after 11 hours of search operation and questioning at the premises owned by them. The CBI team, which had reached Thakur's Sahu Road residence at around 9 am, left at around 8 pm with his son Rahul Anand. Anand is the publisher and editor of Hindi daily "Pratah Kamal", the office of which is situated within the same premises as the residence and the shelter home which have since been sealed. Headed by DIG Abhay Kumar, the CBI team was flanked by a number of armed commandoes who locked the main gate of the premises from inside, preventing entry of mediapersons and a number of other curious onlookers. The CBI team, which was also accompanied by a number of forensic experts, is understood to have inspected the shelter home after getting its seal opened, and collected documents and other items it found to be of value in the investigation. CBI sleuths also inspected the courtyard, which was dug up last month by the police, following allegations by inmates that one of the girls was beaten to death by staff members a few years ago and her body was buried at the spot. Nothing incriminating was found after the day-long excavation and the eight-feet-deep pit was again filled up. The CBI deployed heavy earth mover machines at the site but no excavation took place during the day. Thakur, who is in jail, heads the NGO Seva Sankalp Evam Vika Samiti, which ran the state-funded shelter home where sexual abuse of more than 30 inmates has been confirmed in medical tests. The Bihar government had cancelled the registration of the NGO earlier this week. Sexual exploitation of girls at the shelter home first came to light in the report of a social audit conducted by Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, which was submitted to the state social welfare department in April. The FIR in the case was registered on May 31 against 11 people, including Thakur. On July 26, the Bihar government recommended a CBI inquiry in the matter. Bihar social welfare department minister Manju Verma had to resign after links of her husband with the key accused Brajesh Thakur surfaced.

Muzaffarpur shelter home case: CBI takes Brajesh Thakur's son into custody

<a href="wionews.com/india-news/us-man-who-stole-crashed-passenger-plane-had-access-legitimately-to-it-158563">Video: US man who stole, crashed passenger plane 'had access legitimately' to it</a>

A 29-year-old "suicidal" airport worker who commandeered an empty plane from Seattle's main airport and took it on an hour-long flight chased by F-15 fighter jets before crashing into a small island did not commit any security violations, officials said Saturday.

<a href="wionews.com/world/nobel-winning-writer-vs-naipaul-dies-aged-85-158561">Literary</a><a href="wionews.com/world/nobel-winning-writer-vs-naipaul-dies-aged-85-158561"> giant, Nobel-winning writer VS Naipaul dead at 85</a>

Nobel prize-winning British author VS Naipaul has died at the age of 85, his family announced on Saturday.

<a href="wionews.com/india-news/policeman-martyred-in-encounter-between-security-forces-and-militants-in-jammu--kashmir-gunfight-on--158567">Srinagar: Policeman killed in encounter</a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/policeman-martyred-in-encounter-between-security-forces-and-militants-in-jammu--kashmir-gunfight-on--158567"> with terrorists</a>

A Special Operations Group (SOG) policeman was killed while a Jammu and Kashmir Police and two CRPF personnel were also injured after an encounter broke out between militants and security forces in the Batamaloo area of Srinagar, news agency PTI reported quoting police sources.

<a href="wionews.com/world/investors-sue-teslas-musk-over-go-private-tweets-158566">Investors sue Tesla's Musk over go-private tweets</a>

Two investors filed suit against Tesla CEO Elon Musk and the electric car company after he tweeted he wanted to take the firm private, causing the share price to inflate and short-selling investors to lose millions.

<a href="wionews.com/world/after-technical-delay-nasa-to-try-again-launching-sun-probe-158565">After </a><a href="wionews.com/world/after-technical-delay-nasa-to-try-again-launching-sun-probe-158565">technical</a><a href="wionews.com/world/after-technical-delay-nasa-to-try-again-launching-sun-probe-158565"> delay, NASA to try launching Sun probe again today</a>

After a last-minute technical problem forced NASA to postpone by 24 hours the launch of its first mission to explore the Sun, the agency plans to try again Sunday.

 
&nbsp

Video: US man who stole, crashed passenger plane 'had access legitimately' to it A 29-year-old "suicidal" airport worker who commandeered an empty plane from Seattle's main airport and took it on an hour-long flight chased by F-15 fighter jets before crashing into a small island did not commit any security violations, officials said Saturday. Literary giant, Nobel-winning writer VS Naipaul dead at 85 Nobel prize-winning British author VS Naipaul has died at the age of 85, his family announced on Saturday. Srinagar: Policeman killed in encounter with terrorists A Special Operations Group (SOG) policeman was killed while a Jammu and Kashmir Police and two CRPF personnel were also injured after an encounter broke out between militants and security forces in the Batamaloo area of Srinagar, news agency PTI reported quoting police sources. Investors sue Tesla's Musk over go-private tweets Two investors filed suit against Tesla CEO Elon Musk and the electric car company after he tweeted he wanted to take the firm private, causing the share price to inflate and short-selling investors to lose millions. After technical delay, NASA to try launching Sun probe again today After a last-minute technical problem forced NASA to postpone by 24 hours the launch of its first mission to explore the Sun, the agency plans to try again Sunday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

After days of incessant rainfall leading to floods in Kerala, Home Minister Rajnath Singh along with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister KJ Alphons on Sunday undertook an aerial survey of the flood-affected regions in the state.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/33-dead-6-missing-in-kerala-floods-cm-pinarayi-vijayan-158643">As per latest information, 33 people were dead and six were missing</a> in rain-related incidents in the state. Vijayan confirmed the death of 33 people and six missing. "Such destruction has never before been witnessed in the state. The entire state has come together in these circumstances, and we are ready to do whatever is necessary," said Vijayan.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh met the victims of the flood in Kerala says, ''I would like to assure the state government that all resources will be provided from central government to fight this flood situation.''

<img alt="Untitled design (5)_2.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Untitled%20design%20(5)_2.jpg" width="770" />

To help the state cope with the flood situation, Madras regiment from Pangode Military Station at Idukki has launched Operation Sahyog, which is coordinated by the Indian Army's Karnataka and Kerala sub-area, headquartered at Bangalore.

Pangode Military Station, under Karnataka and Kerala sub-area of the Indian Army, deployed three columns of the army exclusively in two flood-affected districts of the state, Aluva in Ernakulam district and Adimali in Idukki district.

The army is actively engaged in the relief operations.

In addition to the evacuation of villagers, stranded tourists and establishment of connectivity, the relief operation included distribution of medicine and food in relief camps at Adimali, in Idukki district.

Over 1000 people including elderly women and children have been rescued in areas where the Indian Army's ten columns comprising more than 40 composite teams are working round the clock to ensure that the last person stranded in the floods is rescued.

Flash floods due to incessant rains have wreaked havoc in several districts of the state. From past few days, normal life in many parts has been disrupted. The areas which were worst hit are Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki, and Mallapuram districts.

The Indian Army assured in its release, "The troops of the Defence Security Corps Centre and the Bison Division are operating continuously to help and rescue civil population from these inundated areas."

According to the release, "In addition to the composite teams, there are more than three Engineers Task Force including more than 100 personnel of the Indian Army who is establishing temporary bridges on washed away roads, removing debris and using Assault Boats to traverse the inundated areas in the rescue missions."

The army is actively engaged in the relief operations.

After days of incessant rainfall leading to floods in Kerala, Home Minister Rajnath Singh along with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Minister KJ Alphons on Sunday undertook an aerial survey of the flood-affected regions in the state. As per latest information, 33 people were dead and six were missing in rain-related incidents in the state. Vijayan confirmed the death of 33 people and six missing. "Such destruction has never before been witnessed in the state. The entire state has come together in these circumstances, and we are ready to do whatever is necessary," said Vijayan. Home Minister Rajnath Singh met the victims of the flood in Kerala says, ''I would like to assure the state government that all resources will be provided from central government to fight this flood situation.'' To help the state cope with the flood situation, Madras regiment from Pangode Military Station at Idukki has launched Operation Sahyog, which is coordinated by the Indian Army's Karnataka and Kerala sub-area, headquartered at Bangalore. Pangode Military Station, under Karnataka and Kerala sub-area of the Indian Army, deployed three columns of the army exclusively in two flood-affected districts of the state, Aluva in Ernakulam district and Adimali in Idukki district. The army is actively engaged in the relief operations. In addition to the evacuation of villagers, stranded tourists and establishment of connectivity, the relief operation included distribution of medicine and food in relief camps at Adimali, in Idukki district. Over 1000 people including elderly women and children have been rescued in areas where the Indian Army's ten columns comprising more than 40 composite teams are working round the clock to ensure that the last person stranded in the floods is rescued. Flash floods due to incessant rains have wreaked havoc in several districts of the state. From past few days, normal life in many parts has been disrupted. The areas which were worst hit are Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki, and Mallapuram districts. The Indian Army assured in its release, "The troops of the Defence Security Corps Centre and the Bison Division are operating continuously to help and rescue civil population from these inundated areas." According to the release, "In addition to the composite teams, there are more than three Engineers Task Force including more than 100 personnel of the Indian Army who is establishing temporary bridges on washed away roads, removing debris and using Assault Boats to traverse the inundated areas in the rescue missions."

Resources will be provided from central government to fight this flood situation: Rajnath Singh

A Special Operations Group (SOG) policeman was killed while a Jammu and Kashmir Police and two CRPF personnel were also injured after an encounter broke out between militants and security forces in the Batamaloo area of Srinagar, news agency PTI reported quoting police sources.

Based on specific information about the presence of militants in Diyarwani in Batamaloo area of the city, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area early this morning, a police official said.

The search operation turned into an encounter as the militants fired upon the forces, who retaliated, the report added.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
On a specific information about presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & 2 CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues.
— Shesh Paul Vaid (@spvaid) <a href="https://twitter.com/spvaid/status/1028447139536486400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The gunfight is ongoing, the official said, adding further details were awaited.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
On a specific information about presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & 2 CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues: J&K DGP SP Vaid <a href="https://t.co/2C3TxtXjTT">pic.twitter.com/2C3TxtXjTT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028459385209511938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, mobile Internet service has been snapped in the city as a precautionary measure, the official said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Srinagar: Encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces near Batamaloo area early morning today. (visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/u5FRM02Gr5">pic.twitter.com/u5FRM02Gr5</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028444935840837632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Another policeman and 2 CRPF men have been injured. Mobile Internet services have been snapped in the city as a precautionary measure, the official said.

A Special Operations Group (SOG) policeman was killed while a Jammu and Kashmir Police and two CRPF personnel were also injured after an encounter broke out between militants and security forces in the Batamaloo area of Srinagar, news agency PTI reported quoting police sources. Based on specific information about the presence of militants in Diyarwani in Batamaloo area of the city, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area early this morning, a police official said. The search operation turned into an encounter as the militants fired upon the forces, who retaliated, the report added. On a specific information about presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & 2 CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues. — Shesh Paul Vaid (@spvaid) August 12, 2018 × The gunfight is ongoing, the official said, adding further details were awaited. On a specific information about presence of terrorists in a hideout, an operation was launched in Batmaloo Srinagar leading to exchange of fire, one SOG boy martyred, one JKP & 2 CRPF Jawans sustained injuries, operation continues: J&K DGP SP Vaid pic.twitter.com/2C3TxtXjTT — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018 × Meanwhile, mobile Internet service has been snapped in the city as a precautionary measure, the official said. Srinagar: Encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces near Batamaloo area early morning today. (visuals deferred by unspecified time) #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/u5FRM02Gr5 — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018 ×

Srinagar: Policeman killed in encounter with terrorists

A 40-year-old woman and an 18-year-old girl from the Aasra shelter home died on Friday night in the Patna Medical College and Hospital.

''Two girls were brought dead yesterday. As per protocol, we informed police and conducted postmortem. As they were brought dead there's no question of ailment. Postmortem will reveal cause of the deaths,'' Superintendent at Patna Medical College and Hospital said on Sunday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
2 girls were brought dead y'day. As per protocol, we informed police&conducted postmortem. As they were brought dead there's no question of ailment.Postmortem will reveal cause of the deaths:Superintendent,Patna Medical College&Hospital on death of 2 girls of 'Aasra Home' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/sw0VVTIkaT">pic.twitter.com/sw0VVTIkaT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028594860524072960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Patna District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police detained 5 people who are related to NGO at Rajeev Nagar police station and they are being questioned.

A medical board has been constituted to investigate the death case of two girls of Patna's ''Asra home.''

''Prima facie they seemed to have fever and diarrhoea. Further details will be revealed after a medical report comes. Matter is being investigated. We'll also look at their medical history and postmortem reports,'' Patna DM Kumar Ravi said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Prima facie they seemed to have fever&diarrhoea. Further details will be revealed after a medical report comes. Matter is being investigated. We'll also look at their medical history & postmortem reports: Kumar Ravi, Patna DM on deaths of two girls of Patna's 'Aasra Home' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ic7DGCATgg">pic.twitter.com/Ic7DGCATgg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028634297920438272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

''One of the bodies has not been disposed yet, we have requested for another postmortem. People in the organisation are being questioned, action will be taken against those at fault,'' he further added.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
One of the bodies has not been disposed yet, we have requested for another postmortem. People in the organisation are being questioned, action will be taken against those at fault: Kumar Ravi, Patna DM on deaths of two girls of Patna's 'Aasra Home' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bihar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bihar</a> <a href="https://t.co/mg6ZJ9mrdA">pic.twitter.com/mg6ZJ9mrdA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028634300504100864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The team of Forensic Science Laboratory has reached the shelter home for further investigation.

Medical reports have confirmed that at least 34 girls were raped, and many of them tortured, at the state-run shelter home in Muzaffarpur. There were 44 girls living at the shelter.

(With inputs from ANI)

Patna District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police detained 5 people who are related to NGO at Rajeev Nagar police station and they are being questioned.

A 40-year-old woman and an 18-year-old girl from the Aasra shelter home died on Friday night in the Patna Medical College and Hospital. ''Two girls were brought dead yesterday. As per protocol, we informed police and conducted postmortem. As they were brought dead there's no question of ailment. Postmortem will reveal cause of the deaths,'' Superintendent at Patna Medical College and Hospital said on Sunday. 2 girls were brought dead y'day. As per protocol, we informed police&conducted postmortem. As they were brought dead there's no question of ailment.Postmortem will reveal cause of the deaths:Superintendent,Patna Medical College&Hospital on death of 2 girls of 'Aasra Home' #Bihar pic.twitter.com/sw0VVTIkaT — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018 × Patna District Magistrate and Senior Superintendent of Police detained 5 people who are related to NGO at Rajeev Nagar police station and they are being questioned. A medical board has been constituted to investigate the death case of two girls of Patna's ''Asra home.'' ''Prima facie they seemed to have fever and diarrhoea. Further details will be revealed after a medical report comes. Matter is being investigated. We'll also look at their medical history and postmortem reports,'' Patna DM Kumar Ravi said. Prima facie they seemed to have fever&diarrhoea. Further details will be revealed after a medical report comes. Matter is being investigated. We'll also look at their medical history & postmortem reports: Kumar Ravi, Patna DM on deaths of two girls of Patna's 'Aasra Home' #Bihar pic.twitter.com/Ic7DGCATgg — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018 × ''One of the bodies has not been disposed yet, we have requested for another postmortem. People in the organisation are being questioned, action will be taken against those at fault,'' he further added. One of the bodies has not been disposed yet, we have requested for another postmortem. People in the organisation are being questioned, action will be taken against those at fault: Kumar Ravi, Patna DM on deaths of two girls of Patna's 'Aasra Home' #Bihar pic.twitter.com/mg6ZJ9mrdA — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018 × The team of Forensic Science Laboratory has reached the shelter home for further investigation. Medical reports have confirmed that at least 34 girls were raped, and many of them tortured, at the state-run shelter home in Muzaffarpur. There were 44 girls living at the shelter. (With inputs from ANI)

Two women from Patna’s shelter home died under mysterious circumstances

Prime Minister of India&nbspNarendra Modi on Sunday called for greater democracy and the restoration of an independent judiciary in the Maldives ahead of a presidential election in September.

The Indian Ocean archipelago nation has been in turmoil in recent months, with strongman President Abdulla Yameen jailing or forcing into exile all of his main opponents.

Modi told the Times of India newspaper in an email interview that political developments in the Maldives "have been a matter of considerable international concern".

"We hope that (the) Maldives government will ensure early resumption of the political process and allow democratic institutions, including the judiciary to function independently in a fair and transparent manner," the Indian prime minister said.

"This will create (a) conducive environment for the presidential elections."

The election is scheduled for September 23 but the opposition has expressed fears that it could be delayed.

Yameen declared a state of emergency in February after the nation's top court ordered that MPs sacked by the president be restored and dissidents freed from jail.

The Maldives' chief justice and Supreme Court judges were subsequently arrested, along with Yameen's half-brother Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who ruled the country for 30 years until 2008.

The European Union and the United States have expressed concern over the crackdown.

New Delhi's relations with the Maldives -- better known as an upmarket tourist destination -- have also become rocky and the tiny state's president has become closer to China in the past year.

India will hold its own national election in 2019, and Modi told the Times of India that he was confident of winning an even bigger majority despite a major opposition campaign.&nbsp

Modi's right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could face a united opposition alliance in the elections to the parliament's lower house.

Modi told the Times of India newspaper in an email interview that political developments in the Maldives 'have been a matter of considerable international concern.'

Prime Minister of India&nbspNarendra Modi on Sunday called for greater democracy and the restoration of an independent judiciary in the Maldives ahead of a presidential election in September. The Indian Ocean archipelago nation has been in turmoil in recent months, with strongman President Abdulla Yameen jailing or forcing into exile all of his main opponents. Modi told the Times of India newspaper in an email interview that political developments in the Maldives "have been a matter of considerable international concern". "We hope that (the) Maldives government will ensure early resumption of the political process and allow democratic institutions, including the judiciary to function independently in a fair and transparent manner," the Indian prime minister said. "This will create (a) conducive environment for the presidential elections." The election is scheduled for September 23 but the opposition has expressed fears that it could be delayed. Yameen declared a state of emergency in February after the nation's top court ordered that MPs sacked by the president be restored and dissidents freed from jail. The Maldives' chief justice and Supreme Court judges were subsequently arrested, along with Yameen's half-brother Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who ruled the country for 30 years until 2008. The European Union and the United States have expressed concern over the crackdown. New Delhi's relations with the Maldives -- better known as an upmarket tourist destination -- have also become rocky and the tiny state's president has become closer to China in the past year. India will hold its own national election in 2019, and Modi told the Times of India that he was confident of winning an even bigger majority despite a major opposition campaign. Modi's right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) could face a united opposition alliance in the elections to the parliament's lower house.

PM Modi calls for easing of political crackdown in Maldives

All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Derek O'Brien on Saturday said that BJP Chief Amit Shah should apologise for his statements made during his address in Kolkata earlier in the day or face legal action.&nbsp;

O'Brien stated that Shah has insulted Bengal and he should apologise for the same.&nbsp;

"Amit Shah's meeting was a flop show, he has insulted Bengal today. He doesn't understand the culture of Bengal and even insulted it with his blatant lies. If he doesn't apologise within the next 72 hours we will take legal action against him," he said at a press conference.

The TMC leader accused Shah of spreading communal disharmony in other states and that the same will not be accepted in West Bengal.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Amit Shah's meeting was a flop show, he has insulted Bengal today. He doesn't understand the culture of Bengal and even insulted it with his blatant lies. If he doesn't apologise within next 72 hours we will take legal action against him: Derek O'Brien, TMC <a href="https://t.co/a12jR4BgtD">pic.twitter.com/a12jR4BgtD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028242901820559365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"He (Shah) should have a look at his own track record first before spreading such lies about us," he added.

BJP President Amit Shat on Saturday targetted West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee who has been opposing the NRC final draft.&nbsp;

Shah <a href="wionews.com/india-news/why-is-mamata-protecting-bangladeshi-infiltrators-well-throw-tmc-out-of-bengal-amit-shah--158461">accused Banerjee of "protecting Bangladeshi infiltrators</a>". &nbsp;

"Why is she protecting Bangladeshi infiltrators? NRC is a process against illegal immigrants, shouldn't they be thrown out of the country?" Shah exclaimed.&nbsp;

Shah on Saturday accused Mamata Banerjee of 'protecting Bangladeshi infiltrators'.

All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Derek O'Brien on Saturday said that BJP Chief Amit Shah should apologise for his statements made during his address in Kolkata earlier in the day or face legal action. O'Brien stated that Shah has insulted Bengal and he should apologise for the same. "Amit Shah's meeting was a flop show, he has insulted Bengal today. He doesn't understand the culture of Bengal and even insulted it with his blatant lies. If he doesn't apologise within the next 72 hours we will take legal action against him," he said at a press conference. The TMC leader accused Shah of spreading communal disharmony in other states and that the same will not be accepted in West Bengal. Amit Shah's meeting was a flop show, he has insulted Bengal today. He doesn't understand the culture of Bengal and even insulted it with his blatant lies. If he doesn't apologise within next 72 hours we will take legal action against him: Derek O'Brien, TMC pic.twitter.com/a12jR4BgtD — ANI (@ANI) August 11, 2018 × "He (Shah) should have a look at his own track record first before spreading such lies about us," he added. BJP President Amit Shat on Saturday targetted West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee who has been opposing the NRC final draft. Shah accused Banerjee of "protecting Bangladeshi infiltrators". "Why is she protecting Bangladeshi infiltrators? NRC is a process against illegal immigrants, shouldn't they be thrown out of the country?" Shah exclaimed.

Amit Shah should apologise for insulting Bengal: TMC 

A Muslim man, who took part in Kanwar yatra, was allegedly stopped from offering Namaz at a mosque here, prompting the police to arrest three persons in this regard.&nbsp

“I had gone to Haridwar as a Kanwar and offered water at the temples. On Friday, when I went to a mosque, some people assaulted me and stopped me from offering Namaz. They even forced me to run away from there,” Babu Khan said in his complaint registered with the police.

Khan, a resident of Racharh village of the district, alleged that after he was beaten up, his wife and children went to their relatives.

When contacted, inspector Devendra Bisht said, “On the complaint lodged by Babu Khan, three persons have been arrested for disrupting peace, while another person is absconding.”

Police along with prominent citizens of the area are making efforts to resolve the matter through talks. At present, the atmosphere in the village is absolutely peaceful, Bisht added.

The accused persons, however, alleged that Babu Khan was trying to enter the mosque in an inebriated state and hence he was stopped from entering.

Meanwhile, district president of Hindu Jagran Manch Deepak Banmauli said, “The Manch is with Babu Khan and if anyone harasses him then we will not tolerate it.” In the Hindu holy month of Shravan, Kawariyas (devout pilgrims carrying Ganga water) offer prayers at Shiva temples.

The accused persons, however, alleged that Babu Khan was trying to enter the mosque in an inebriated state and hence he was stopped from entering.

A Muslim man, who took part in Kanwar yatra, was allegedly stopped from offering Namaz at a mosque here, prompting the police to arrest three persons in this regard. “I had gone to Haridwar as a Kanwar and offered water at the temples. On Friday, when I went to a mosque, some people assaulted me and stopped me from offering Namaz. They even forced me to run away from there,” Babu Khan said in his complaint registered with the police. Khan, a resident of Racharh village of the district, alleged that after he was beaten up, his wife and children went to their relatives. When contacted, inspector Devendra Bisht said, “On the complaint lodged by Babu Khan, three persons have been arrested for disrupting peace, while another person is absconding.” Police along with prominent citizens of the area are making efforts to resolve the matter through talks. At present, the atmosphere in the village is absolutely peaceful, Bisht added. The accused persons, however, alleged that Babu Khan was trying to enter the mosque in an inebriated state and hence he was stopped from entering. Meanwhile, district president of Hindu Jagran Manch Deepak Banmauli said, “The Manch is with Babu Khan and if anyone harasses him then we will not tolerate it.” In the Hindu holy month of Shravan, Kawariyas (devout pilgrims carrying Ganga water) offer prayers at Shiva temples.

Muslim man prevented from offering Namaz for participating in Kanwar yatra; three held

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) plans to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in a focused manner, restricting itself to fielding candidates in around 100 seats, primarily in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi among the states in north India.

This is in contrast with the 2014 general elections, where the party had fielded over 400 candidates across the country, but managed to win just four seats in Punjab.

"The party feels that there is no point fighting in all seats. So, plans are to contest around 80 to 100 seats where we are in a better position to influence the results," said AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, who is also the in-charge of party's Uttar Pradesh and Bihar units.

Punjab, Haryana and AAP's home turf Delhi will be where the party would focus to win maximum seats in 2019, he said.

The party will also field candidates for some Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh too, AAP plans to field candidates in some seats.

In Uttar Pradesh, the party is looking to contest in 10 to 15 seats, Singh said.

In Delhi, the AAP has announced in-charges for five of the seven Lok Sabha constituencies. They have already actively engaged with local cadre in organising meetings and campaigns there.

The fate of two parliamentary constituencies -- New Delhi and West Delhi -- for which no one was named as in-charge amid rumours of a tie-up with the Congress, is yet to be decided as AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, during his visit to Haryana recently, ruled out the party's participation in any alliance.

In Punjab, where the AAP managed to win four Lok Sabha seats in the last Lok Sabha elections and is the main opposition in the state Assembly, efforts will be made to enhance the influence of the party, Singh said.

"We would like to increase our footprint in Punjab by winning more than four seats, this time," the AAP leader said, adding the party may also contest in some seats in Gujarat where the organisation is strong.

Haryana is another state where the AAP aspires to open its account in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Party leaders believe that voters of Haryana, which is home state of Kejriwal and where local leader Navin Jaihind has been involved in grassroots organisational work, are ready to respond favourably to AAP in the coming general elections.&nbsp;

This is in contrast with the 2014 general elections, where the party had fielded over 400 candidates across the country but managed to win just four seats in Punjab.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) plans to contest the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in a focused manner, restricting itself to fielding candidates in around 100 seats, primarily in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi among the states in north India. This is in contrast with the 2014 general elections, where the party had fielded over 400 candidates across the country, but managed to win just four seats in Punjab. "The party feels that there is no point fighting in all seats. So, plans are to contest around 80 to 100 seats where we are in a better position to influence the results," said AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, who is also the in-charge of party's Uttar Pradesh and Bihar units. Punjab, Haryana and AAP's home turf Delhi will be where the party would focus to win maximum seats in 2019, he said. The party will also field candidates for some Lok Sabha seats in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh too, AAP plans to field candidates in some seats. In Uttar Pradesh, the party is looking to contest in 10 to 15 seats, Singh said. In Delhi, the AAP has announced in-charges for five of the seven Lok Sabha constituencies. They have already actively engaged with local cadre in organising meetings and campaigns there. The fate of two parliamentary constituencies -- New Delhi and West Delhi -- for which no one was named as in-charge amid rumours of a tie-up with the Congress, is yet to be decided as AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, during his visit to Haryana recently, ruled out the party's participation in any alliance. In Punjab, where the AAP managed to win four Lok Sabha seats in the last Lok Sabha elections and is the main opposition in the state Assembly, efforts will be made to enhance the influence of the party, Singh said. "We would like to increase our footprint in Punjab by winning more than four seats, this time," the AAP leader said, adding the party may also contest in some seats in Gujarat where the organisation is strong. Haryana is another state where the AAP aspires to open its account in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Party leaders believe that voters of Haryana, which is home state of Kejriwal and where local leader Navin Jaihind has been involved in grassroots organisational work, are ready to respond favourably to AAP in the coming general elections.

AAP plans to contest in around 100 seats in 2019 Lok Sabha polls

Minister of State for External Affairs on Sunday said that mob lynching is a problem throughout the country.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/even-a-single-incident-is-one-too-many-modi-on-lynchings-crimes-against-women-158579">Also read:&nbspEven a single incident is one too many: Modi on lynchings, rapes</a>

In response to a question on mob lynching issue specifically in western Uttar Pradesh, Singh said, "Mob lynching problem is in the whole of India, why should western Uttar Pradesh be singled out?" Singh, member of Parliament from Ghaziabad, is here to attend the second day of BJP's State&nbspWorking Committee meeting.

As per Ministry of Home Affairs statistics, 45 persons have been killed in 40 cases of mob lynching across nine Indian states between 2014 and March 3, 2018.

On July 23, the central government constituted a high-level committee to curb the menace. The committee headed by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba is expected to submit its recommendations in near future.

As per Ministry of Home Affairs statistics, 45 persons have been killed in 40 cases of mob lynching across nine Indian states between 2014 and March 3, 2018.

Minister of State for External Affairs on Sunday said that mob lynching is a problem throughout the country. Also read:&nbspEven a single incident is one too many: Modi on lynchings, rapes In response to a question on mob lynching issue specifically in western Uttar Pradesh, Singh said, "Mob lynching problem is in the whole of India, why should western Uttar Pradesh be singled out?" Singh, member of Parliament from Ghaziabad, is here to attend the second day of BJP's State&nbspWorking Committee meeting. As per Ministry of Home Affairs statistics, 45 persons have been killed in 40 cases of mob lynching across nine Indian states between 2014 and March 3, 2018. On July 23, the central government constituted a high-level committee to curb the menace. The committee headed by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba is expected to submit its recommendations in near future.

Mob lynching a problem across the country: VK Singh

The government plans to have a pre-determined tariff structure linked to inflation for airports as it seeks to address issues hindering investments in the fast-growing Indian aviation sector, a senior official said.

Currently, there is cost plus tariff structure wherein the rates for an airport are determined every five years, which is known as the concession period.

Many more airports are expected to be operational in the coming years, especially with rising air passenger traffic and infrastructure woes at some of the existing major aerodromes.

"The wide variation in airport tariffs create challenges for domestic and foreign airlines who have to recover the same from passengers," Airports Authority of India (AAI) Chairman Guruprasad Mohapatra told PTI.

Many domestic and global investors and lenders have highlighted this as one of the key reasons for staying away from investing in India, despite being the fastest growing aviation market in the world, he said.

The state-owned AAI manages more than 120 airports.

On July 18, the government introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha that seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) Act to have provisions for new tariff models for airports as well as change the definition of major aerodromes.

The AERA is an independent economic regulator for protection of interests of airports, airlines and passengers.

About the proposed changes in the Act, Mohapatra said the government plans to correct the anomaly of wide variations in airport tariffs.

This is proposed to be done by shifting "to a pre-determined tariff structure which would be indexed to inflation during the concession period", he said in an e-mail interview.

Mohapatra said the current cost plus tariff structure involves a long drawn tariff determination process every five years with adjustments on annual basis.

Many of the regulator's decisions are legally challenged by airport operators leading to waste of time, energy and money for all the parties involved.&nbsp

This is counter to the stated objectives of affordability, sustainability and predictability, he noted.

India's domestic aviation sector has been growing significantly, with air passenger traffic registering double-digit growth for more than three years.

Currently, there is cost plus tariff structure wherein the rates for an airport are determined every five years, which is known as the concession period.

The government plans to have a pre-determined tariff structure linked to inflation for airports as it seeks to address issues hindering investments in the fast-growing Indian aviation sector, a senior official said. Currently, there is cost plus tariff structure wherein the rates for an airport are determined every five years, which is known as the concession period. Many more airports are expected to be operational in the coming years, especially with rising air passenger traffic and infrastructure woes at some of the existing major aerodromes. "The wide variation in airport tariffs create challenges for domestic and foreign airlines who have to recover the same from passengers," Airports Authority of India (AAI) Chairman Guruprasad Mohapatra told PTI. Many domestic and global investors and lenders have highlighted this as one of the key reasons for staying away from investing in India, despite being the fastest growing aviation market in the world, he said. The state-owned AAI manages more than 120 airports. On July 18, the government introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha that seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) Act to have provisions for new tariff models for airports as well as change the definition of major aerodromes. The AERA is an independent economic regulator for protection of interests of airports, airlines and passengers. About the proposed changes in the Act, Mohapatra said the government plans to correct the anomaly of wide variations in airport tariffs. This is proposed to be done by shifting "to a pre-determined tariff structure which would be indexed to inflation during the concession period", he said in an e-mail interview. Mohapatra said the current cost plus tariff structure involves a long drawn tariff determination process every five years with adjustments on annual basis. Many of the regulator's decisions are legally challenged by airport operators leading to waste of time, energy and money for all the parties involved. This is counter to the stated objectives of affordability, sustainability and predictability, he noted. India's domestic aviation sector has been growing significantly, with air passenger traffic registering double-digit growth for more than three years.

Government plans inflation-linked pre-determined tariff structure for airports

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested two people here, for allegedly planning acts of terror on the instructions of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a proscribed terrorist organisation.

The accused, Mohammed Abdullah Basith (24) and Mohammed Abdul Qhadeer (19), came under the radar of the security agency after it received information from a reliable source that the accused are associated with a group of three youth who were arrested from Maharashtra's Nagpur airport two years back for allegedly training youth to carry out terrorist attacks.

The NIA also conducted raids at as many as seven places on August 6 in Hyderabad. A lot of incriminating material was recovered and seized. The same has been sent to CFSL Hyderabad for analysis and data extraction.

In 2016, NIA arrested Sheikh Azhar ul Islam, Mohammed Farhan Shaikh and Adnan Hassan for identifying, motivating, radicalising, recruiting and training Indian Muslim youth on behalf of the proscribed outfit ISIS to carry out terror activities.

During their trial, Sheikh Azhar ul Islam and Mohammed Farhan Shaikh pleaded guilty and were sentenced to 7 years of imprisonment, while trial against accused Adnan Hassan is still going on.

Further investigation in the connection is underway.

The NIA also conducted raids at as many as seven places on August 6 in Hyderabad.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested two people here, for allegedly planning acts of terror on the instructions of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a proscribed terrorist organisation. The accused, Mohammed Abdullah Basith (24) and Mohammed Abdul Qhadeer (19), came under the radar of the security agency after it received information from a reliable source that the accused are associated with a group of three youth who were arrested from Maharashtra's Nagpur airport two years back for allegedly training youth to carry out terrorist attacks. The NIA also conducted raids at as many as seven places on August 6 in Hyderabad. A lot of incriminating material was recovered and seized. The same has been sent to CFSL Hyderabad for analysis and data extraction. In 2016, NIA arrested Sheikh Azhar ul Islam, Mohammed Farhan Shaikh and Adnan Hassan for identifying, motivating, radicalising, recruiting and training Indian Muslim youth on behalf of the proscribed outfit ISIS to carry out terror activities. During their trial, Sheikh Azhar ul Islam and Mohammed Farhan Shaikh pleaded guilty and were sentenced to 7 years of imprisonment, while trial against accused Adnan Hassan is still going on. Further investigation in the connection is underway.

Hyderabad: NIA arrests two for link with ISIS

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday called for the deportation of all those people whose names failed to appear in the National Register for Citizens (NRC) draft.

The chief minister's comment came after former Congress Member of Parliament (MP), Charan Das Mahant said India has always welcomed those who sought shelter in the country.

"You want to make India a Dharamshala? Someone forcibly comes and uses resources, this is unacceptable. They will have to go back. Can't understand in what direction the Congress wants to take the nation," the chief minister said here while addressing the media.

Earlier in the day, Mahant said "Whether it was during the time of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi or before that, India has always given shelter to all. We have never sent them back. This is what I feel. While some come as guests others seek shelter as poor we should keep them and look after their safety and security."

The Opposition parties, including, the Congress have been vociferous against the draft. Congress president Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to criticise the draft and dubbed the execution of the critical and highly sensitive exercise as tardy.

The NRC draft, which was released on July 30, had left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam while incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants.

The first draft was published on December 31, 2017, and names of 1.9 crores of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated. The NRC draft features the names, addresses and photographs of all Indian citizens, who have been residing in the northeastern state before March 25, 1971.&nbsp

The chief minister's comment came after former Congress Member of Parliament (MP), Charan Das Mahant said India has always welcomed those who sought shelter in the country.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday called for the deportation of all those people whose names failed to appear in the National Register for Citizens (NRC) draft. The chief minister's comment came after former Congress Member of Parliament (MP), Charan Das Mahant said India has always welcomed those who sought shelter in the country. "You want to make India a Dharamshala? Someone forcibly comes and uses resources, this is unacceptable. They will have to go back. Can't understand in what direction the Congress wants to take the nation," the chief minister said here while addressing the media. Earlier in the day, Mahant said "Whether it was during the time of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi or before that, India has always given shelter to all. We have never sent them back. This is what I feel. While some come as guests others seek shelter as poor we should keep them and look after their safety and security." The Opposition parties, including, the Congress have been vociferous against the draft. Congress president Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to criticise the draft and dubbed the execution of the critical and highly sensitive exercise as tardy. The NRC draft, which was released on July 30, had left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam while incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants. The first draft was published on December 31, 2017, and names of 1.9 crores of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated. The NRC draft features the names, addresses and photographs of all Indian citizens, who have been residing in the northeastern state before March 25, 1971.

NRC: Raman Singh calls for deportation of illegal immigrants

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday said that many big nations don't have the courage to implement a tax reform like the Good and Services Tax (GST).

"No big country has ever had the courage to implement something like GST. It's not there in the US or China. Big nations don't have the courage to bring such huge change," Goyal said at an event here while interacting with Bihar Chamber of Commerce and Industries.

"Before our GST Council meeting on July 21, I went to seven places - Jaipur, Bhopal, Nagpur, Raipur, Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi - to interact with people and take their feedback on what they expect from us. The decisions that were made in the GST meeting brought changes in the GST to a great extent. GST has become simple. A special GST meeting, especially for the MSME sector, was called on August 4. This happened for the first time when all the finance ministers in the country along with the Centre's Finance Minister did a meeting, especially for a particular sector," he added.

Piyush Goyal further stated that in "29 GST meeting that have taken place till now, rates of 384 Goods and 68 Services have been reduced."

"Rakshabandhan is coming. We have exempted Rakhis from GST. Also, for Ganesh Chaturthi, we have exempted GST on statues made from wood, clay and stones. Handicraft and handloom sectors are also there. All these things are our heritage and we have to hold on to them with respect," he added.

In the 29th GST Council meeting, Piyush Goyal announced that a committee has been set up to look after the issues of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The council also announced that the GST incentives for digital payments via RuPay card and BHIM app will be rolled out on a pilot basis. Goyal also said that 20 percent cashback will also be available on digital payments through the BHIM app.

'No big country has ever had the courage to implement something like GST. It's not there in the US or China. Big nations don't have the courage to bring such huge change,' Goyal said.

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal on Sunday said that many big nations don't have the courage to implement a tax reform like the Good and Services Tax (GST). "No big country has ever had the courage to implement something like GST. It's not there in the US or China. Big nations don't have the courage to bring such huge change," Goyal said at an event here while interacting with Bihar Chamber of Commerce and Industries. "Before our GST Council meeting on July 21, I went to seven places - Jaipur, Bhopal, Nagpur, Raipur, Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi - to interact with people and take their feedback on what they expect from us. The decisions that were made in the GST meeting brought changes in the GST to a great extent. GST has become simple. A special GST meeting, especially for the MSME sector, was called on August 4. This happened for the first time when all the finance ministers in the country along with the Centre's Finance Minister did a meeting, especially for a particular sector," he added. Piyush Goyal further stated that in "29 GST meeting that have taken place till now, rates of 384 Goods and 68 Services have been reduced." "Rakshabandhan is coming. We have exempted Rakhis from GST. Also, for Ganesh Chaturthi, we have exempted GST on statues made from wood, clay and stones. Handicraft and handloom sectors are also there. All these things are our heritage and we have to hold on to them with respect," he added. In the 29th GST Council meeting, Piyush Goyal announced that a committee has been set up to look after the issues of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The council also announced that the GST incentives for digital payments via RuPay card and BHIM app will be rolled out on a pilot basis. Goyal also said that 20 percent cashback will also be available on digital payments through the BHIM app.

Big nations don't have the courage to implement GST: Piyush Goyal

There are 5,606 vacant posts of faculty members in central universities across the country while the number of such vacancies in the prestigious IITs is 2,806, according to the HRD Ministry. In National Institutes of Technology and Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, there are 1870 vacant positions while the figure is 258 in Indian Institutes of Management.

“Occurring of vacancies and filling these up is a continuous process. The vacancies keep on arising due to retirement, resignation and additional requirements on account of enhanced students’ strength,” a senior HRD Ministry official said.

“The institutions are adopting various measures to address faculty shortage in order to ensure that studies of students are not affected which inter-alia, includes engaging research scholars, contract, re-employed, adjunct and visiting faculty. The institutions also publish a year-round rolling advertisement to attract faculty,” the official added.

Besides these institutes, there are 324 vacant posts in several Indian Institutes of Information technology (IIITs), 96 in School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), 88 in Indian Institutes of Science (IISc), Bengaluru and 100 in Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs).

"Occurring of vacancies and filling these up are continuous process. The vacancies keep on arising due to retirement, resignation and additional requirements on account of enhanced students' strength," a senior HRD Ministry official said.

There are 5,606 vacant posts of faculty members in central universities across the country while the number of such vacancies in the prestigious IITs is 2,806, according to the HRD Ministry. In National Institutes of Technology and Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, there are 1870 vacant positions while the figure is 258 in Indian Institutes of Management. “Occurring of vacancies and filling these up is a continuous process. The vacancies keep on arising due to retirement, resignation and additional requirements on account of enhanced students’ strength,” a senior HRD Ministry official said. “The institutions are adopting various measures to address faculty shortage in order to ensure that studies of students are not affected which inter-alia, includes engaging research scholars, contract, re-employed, adjunct and visiting faculty. The institutions also publish a year-round rolling advertisement to attract faculty,” the official added. Besides these institutes, there are 324 vacant posts in several Indian Institutes of Information technology (IIITs), 96 in School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), 88 in Indian Institutes of Science (IISc), Bengaluru and 100 in Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs).

Over 5600 vacancies for faculty in central varsities, over 2800 in IITs

Piped water connection has been provided to more than 24 lakh households across the country under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), with Gujarat topping the chart.

According to data available with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Goa stands last in the chart with only 150 new water connections since 2015 when AMRUT was launched.

AMRUT aims at ensuring robust sewage networks, water supply and other infrastructures to improve the quality of life of people in urban areas.

A total of 24,33,835 new water tap connections have been provided in states and union territories since the launch of AMRUT or through schemes dovetailed with it and funded from other sources.

According to the ministry, 3,98,698 new water tap connections have been provided in Gujarat, followed by 3,68,822 in Tamil Naidu, 2,68,487 in Madhya Pradesh, 2,22,748 in Rajasthan, 2,15,083 in Uttar Pradesh till August 6 this year.

In Maharashtra, only 900 water tap connections have been provided under AMRUT, while Sikkim had only 487 such water connections till August 6.

Among union territories, Chandigarh has topped the chart with 14,960 connections, followed by 12,712 in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and 2,038 in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Data pertaining to Delhi, Daman and Diu, Lakshadweep and Puducherry was not available with the ministry.

In December last year, Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had asked the Delhi government to expedite implementation of various projects approved under the Centre's AMRUT and complete them by 2020.

An official said that the ministry approves the State Annual Action Plan (SAAPs) submitted by states and union territories and releases central assistance.

According to the ministry, it has approved SAAPs for Rs 77,640 crore for all states and union territories for the entire mission period, including the central assistance of 35,990 crore.

According to data available with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Goa stands last in the chart with only 150 new water connections since 2015 when AMRUT was launched.

Piped water connection has been provided to more than 24 lakh households across the country under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), with Gujarat topping the chart. According to data available with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Goa stands last in the chart with only 150 new water connections since 2015 when AMRUT was launched. AMRUT aims at ensuring robust sewage networks, water supply and other infrastructures to improve the quality of life of people in urban areas. A total of 24,33,835 new water tap connections have been provided in states and union territories since the launch of AMRUT or through schemes dovetailed with it and funded from other sources. According to the ministry, 3,98,698 new water tap connections have been provided in Gujarat, followed by 3,68,822 in Tamil Naidu, 2,68,487 in Madhya Pradesh, 2,22,748 in Rajasthan, 2,15,083 in Uttar Pradesh till August 6 this year. In Maharashtra, only 900 water tap connections have been provided under AMRUT, while Sikkim had only 487 such water connections till August 6. Among union territories, Chandigarh has topped the chart with 14,960 connections, followed by 12,712 in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and 2,038 in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Data pertaining to Delhi, Daman and Diu, Lakshadweep and Puducherry was not available with the ministry. In December last year, Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had asked the Delhi government to expedite implementation of various projects approved under the Centre's AMRUT and complete them by 2020. An official said that the ministry approves the State Annual Action Plan (SAAPs) submitted by states and union territories and releases central assistance. According to the ministry, it has approved SAAPs for Rs 77,640 crore for all states and union territories for the entire mission period, including the central assistance of 35,990 crore.

Over 24 lakh new water connections across country since launch of AMRUT

Seven members of a family, all minors, were killed when their car fell into ditch in Gujarat's Panchmahal district, police said today.

The incident happened around midnight yesterday when one of the rear wheels of the car, carrying 10 people, came off at a sharp turn on the Halol-Bodeli road, near Bhat village in Jambughoda tehsil, located around 180 km from here.

As a result, the driver lost control of the vehicle, which plunged into a roadside ditch filled with water, an official at the Jambughoda police station said.

While the locals managed to rescue three people, seven others could not be saved, he added.

All the deceased belonged to the same family in Bodeli town. They were returning after meeting a relative in Halol, the police official said.

"The three people rescued by the locals were taken to a hospital in Jambughoda. The bodies were also sent to the same hospital for post-mortem," he added.

The deceased were identified as Mohammad Bilal (17), Mohammad Rouf (14), Mohammad Sajid (13), Gul Afroz (13), Asina Banu (11), Mohammad Tahir (11) and Mohammad Yusuf (7), the official said.

A case was registered in connection with the incident, he added.

The incident happened around midnight yesterday when one of the rear wheels of the car, carrying 10 people, came off at a sharp turn on the Halol-Bodeli road, near Bhat village

Seven members of a family, all minors, were killed when their car fell into ditch in Gujarat's Panchmahal district, police said today. The incident happened around midnight yesterday when one of the rear wheels of the car, carrying 10 people, came off at a sharp turn on the Halol-Bodeli road, near Bhat village in Jambughoda tehsil, located around 180 km from here. As a result, the driver lost control of the vehicle, which plunged into a roadside ditch filled with water, an official at the Jambughoda police station said. While the locals managed to rescue three people, seven others could not be saved, he added. All the deceased belonged to the same family in Bodeli town. They were returning after meeting a relative in Halol, the police official said. "The three people rescued by the locals were taken to a hospital in Jambughoda. The bodies were also sent to the same hospital for post-mortem," he added. The deceased were identified as Mohammad Bilal (17), Mohammad Rouf (14), Mohammad Sajid (13), Gul Afroz (13), Asina Banu (11), Mohammad Tahir (11) and Mohammad Yusuf (7), the official said. A case was registered in connection with the incident, he added.

7 minor members of family killed as car falls into ditch in Gujarat

At least three people were injured in an explosion in Tosa Maidan, Budgam district in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

According to ANI, all three are currently receiving treatment at Sub District hospital, Khag. Two of them were later referred to JVC hospital in Srinagar.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: An explosion has occurred in Tosa Maidan of Budgam district, injuring three people. All the injured have been admitted to hospital. Investigation has begun. <a href="https://t.co/N4DGcsM71F">pic.twitter.com/N4DGcsM71F</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028569741730824192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
A mysterious blast occurred in Budgam's Tosa Maidan. The 3 injured were taken to Sub Dist Hospital, Khag & 2 of them were later referred to JVC hospital, Srinagar. One of the injured is critical. Police has taken cognisance: Senior Superintendent of Police,Budgam <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/d3HEVTKvEP">https://t.co/d3HEVTKvEP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1028572459895681024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam, Tijender Singh said, "A mysterious blast occurred in Budgam's Tosa Maidan. Initially, the three injured were taken to Sub District Hospital in Khag. Later, two of them were referred to JVC hospital, Srinagar. One of the injured is critical. The police have taken cognizance".&nbsp;

The last incident in Budgam was on July 7 when one security personnel was injured after terrorists hurled a grenade at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party in Hyderpora area.

According to ANI, all three are currently receiving treatment at Sub District hospital in Khag.

At least three people were injured in an explosion in Tosa Maidan, Budgam district in Jammu and Kashmir. According to ANI, all three are currently receiving treatment at Sub District hospital, Khag. Two of them were later referred to JVC hospital in Srinagar. #JammuAndKashmir: An explosion has occurred in Tosa Maidan of Budgam district, injuring three people. All the injured have been admitted to hospital. Investigation has begun. pic.twitter.com/N4DGcsM71F — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018 × A mysterious blast occurred in Budgam's Tosa Maidan. The 3 injured were taken to Sub Dist Hospital, Khag & 2 of them were later referred to JVC hospital, Srinagar. One of the injured is critical. Police has taken cognisance: Senior Superintendent of Police,Budgam #JammuAndKashmir https://t.co/d3HEVTKvEP — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2018 × Senior Superintendent of Police, Budgam, Tijender Singh said, "A mysterious blast occurred in Budgam's Tosa Maidan. Initially, the three injured were taken to Sub District Hospital in Khag. Later, two of them were referred to JVC hospital, Srinagar. One of the injured is critical. The police have taken cognizance". The last incident in Budgam was on July 7 when one security personnel was injured after terrorists hurled a grenade at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party in Hyderpora area.

Jammu and Kashmir: 3 injured in explosion at Budgam's Tosa Maidan

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday confirmed 33 deaths and six missing in Kerala floods.

Vijayan said, "33 people have died in the floods and six are missing. Such destruction has never before been witnessed in the state. The entire state has come together in these circumstances, and we are ready to do whatever is necessary.''

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-death-toll-mounts-to-34-crop-worth-342-billion-rupees-destroyed-158499">Also read:&nbsp;Flood fury in Kerala destroys crop worth 3.42 billion rupees</a>

The Chief Minister further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also extended his help if needed to tackle the situation."State Police, NDRF, Army and other forces are working with the same motive - to help the people of the state. The PM called us and said that any more help needed, will be provided to us," he added.

Meanwhile, over 1000 people including elderly women and children have been rescued in areas where the Indian Army`s ten columns comprising more than 40 composite teams are working round the clock to ensure that the last person stranded in the floods is rescued.

<img alt="Untitled design_9.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Untitled%20design_9.jpg" width="770" />

Flash floods due to incessant rains have wreaked havoc in several districts of the state. From past few days, normal life in many parts has been disrupted. The areas which were worst hit are Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki and Mallapuram.

The Indian Army assured in its release, "The troops of the Defence Security Corps Centre and the Bison Division are operating continuously to help and rescue civil population from these inundated areas."

According to the release, "In addition to the composite teams, there are more than three Engineers Task Force including more than 100 personnel of the Indian Army who is establishing temporary bridges on washed away roads, removing debris and using Assault Boats to traverse the inundated areas in the rescue missions."

<img alt="Untitled design (1)_5.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Untitled%20design%20(1)_5.jpg" width="770" />

<img alt="Untitled design (2)_6.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Untitled%20design%20(2)_6.jpg" width="770" />

Also, the connectivity to Virinjapara in Mankulam area of Idukki district has been restored by the Army after a concrete bridge connecting the village had washed away two days back.

Over 800 families are residing in the village. In addition to the evacuation of villagers, stranded tourists and establishment of connectivity, the relief operation by the Army from Pangode Military Station includes distribution of medicine and food in the relief camp at Adimali in Idukki district.

<img alt="Untitled design (3)_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Untitled%20design%20(3)_0.jpg" width="770" />

The entire flood relief operations of the Army in Kerala is coordinated by the Indian Army's Karnataka and Kerala Sub-Area, headquartered at Bangalore.

There are six more rehabilitation camps in the nearby tribal areas of Pettimudi, Talamali, Korangatti, Noorankara, Kodakallu, Chettupara.&nbsp;

The tribals were brought to various camps after constructing and opening the road leading to various villages by Army from Pangode Military Station with the help of civil administration.

A total number of persons accommodated from tribal areas in the camp is 187.

The entire flood relief operations of the Army in Kerala is coordinated by the Indian Army's Karnataka and Kerala Sub-Area, headquartered at Bangalore.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday confirmed 33 deaths and six missing in Kerala floods. Vijayan said, "33 people have died in the floods and six are missing. Such destruction has never before been witnessed in the state. The entire state has come together in these circumstances, and we are ready to do whatever is necessary.'' Also read: Flood fury in Kerala destroys crop worth 3.42 billion rupees The Chief Minister further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also extended his help if needed to tackle the situation."State Police, NDRF, Army and other forces are working with the same motive - to help the people of the state. The PM called us and said that any more help needed, will be provided to us," he added. Meanwhile, over 1000 people including elderly women and children have been rescued in areas where the Indian Army`s ten columns comprising more than 40 composite teams are working round the clock to ensure that the last person stranded in the floods is rescued. Flash floods due to incessant rains have wreaked havoc in several districts of the state. From past few days, normal life in many parts has been disrupted. The areas which were worst hit are Kannur, Wayanad, Kozhikode, Idukki and Mallapuram. The Indian Army assured in its release, "The troops of the Defence Security Corps Centre and the Bison Division are operating continuously to help and rescue civil population from these inundated areas." According to the release, "In addition to the composite teams, there are more than three Engineers Task Force including more than 100 personnel of the Indian Army who is establishing temporary bridges on washed away roads, removing debris and using Assault Boats to traverse the inundated areas in the rescue missions." Also, the connectivity to Virinjapara in Mankulam area of Idukki district has been restored by the Army after a concrete bridge connecting the village had washed away two days back. Over 800 families are residing in the village. In addition to the evacuation of villagers, stranded tourists and establishment of connectivity, the relief operation by the Army from Pangode Military Station includes distribution of medicine and food in the relief camp at Adimali in Idukki district. The entire flood relief operations of the Army in Kerala is coordinated by the Indian Army's Karnataka and Kerala Sub-Area, headquartered at Bangalore. There are six more rehabilitation camps in the nearby tribal areas of Pettimudi, Talamali, Korangatti, Noorankara, Kodakallu, Chettupara. The tribals were brought to various camps after constructing and opening the road leading to various villages by Army from Pangode Military Station with the help of civil administration. A total number of persons accommodated from tribal areas in the camp is 187.

33 dead, 6 missing in Kerala floods: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

MDMK chief Vaiko on Saturday demanded that the Centre posthumously confer Bharat Ratna on M Karunanidhi a day after DMK raised a similar demand in Parliament, PTI&nbsp;reported.

Vaiko in a statement said that 'Kalaignar' (as Karunanidhi is fondly called) received love and affection from people across the country and urged the centre to confer the Bharat Ratna on the late leader as part of honouring him.

Vaiko was paying tribute to DMK stalwart through a statement when he made the plea.&nbsp;

On Friday, during the Zero Hour in Rajya Sabha, DMK member 'Tiruchi' Siva asked the Centre to 'posthumously' confer Bharat Ratna on Karunanidhi as a tribute to his exemplary work for the people.

Many members, including Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad, supported Siva's demand.

On Friday, during the Zero Hour in Rajya Sabha, DMK member 'Tiruchi' Siva asked the Centre to 'posthumously' confer Bharat Ratna on Karunanidhi as a tribute to his exemplary work for the people.

MDMK chief Vaiko on Saturday demanded that the Centre posthumously confer Bharat Ratna on M Karunanidhi a day after DMK raised a similar demand in Parliament, PTI reported. Vaiko in a statement said that 'Kalaignar' (as Karunanidhi is fondly called) received love and affection from people across the country and urged the centre to confer the Bharat Ratna on the late leader as part of honouring him. Vaiko was paying tribute to DMK stalwart through a statement when he made the plea. On Friday, during the Zero Hour in Rajya Sabha, DMK member 'Tiruchi' Siva asked the Centre to 'posthumously' confer Bharat Ratna on Karunanidhi as a tribute to his exemplary work for the people. Many members, including Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad, supported Siva's demand.

Vaiko joins demand to confer Bharat Ratna on Karunanidhi

Congress on Saturday came down heavily on the TRS government in Telangana for denying permission for party president Rahul Gandhi's proposed meeting at state-run Osmania University on security grounds, news agency PTI reported.

"We feel there is nothing more painful and more deplorable an issue than the state government denying permission to the effort of president of Congress party, which gave (separate) Telangana, to interact with the students of that (Osmania) University as per their desire," M Bhatti Vikramarka, Working President of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC), was quoted as saying reporters.

The university declined permission for the proposed meeting with students on its campus during his visit to the state on August 13 and 14 Citing security concerns, the report added.

University Registrar Ch Gopal Reddy had said they declined permission as they had no mechanism to provide security to the Congress leader.

However, they might review the decision if local police or any other government agency such as the Special Protection Group (SPG) assures the university of Gandhi's security, he had said.

Citing security concerns, the University declined permission for Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's proposed meeting with students on its campus during his visit to the state on August 13 and 14.

Congress on Saturday came down heavily on the TRS government in Telangana for denying permission for party president Rahul Gandhi's proposed meeting at state-run Osmania University on security grounds, news agency PTI reported. "We feel there is nothing more painful and more deplorable an issue than the state government denying permission to the effort of president of Congress party, which gave (separate) Telangana, to interact with the students of that (Osmania) University as per their desire," M Bhatti Vikramarka, Working President of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC), was quoted as saying reporters. The university declined permission for the proposed meeting with students on its campus during his visit to the state on August 13 and 14 Citing security concerns, the report added. University Registrar Ch Gopal Reddy had said they declined permission as they had no mechanism to provide security to the Congress leader. However, they might review the decision if local police or any other government agency such as the Special Protection Group (SPG) assures the university of Gandhi's security, he had said.

Congress flays TRS government for denying Rahul permission to visit Osmania University

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday&nbsp;addressed Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad as "Pandit Ravi Shankar", leaving the senior BJP leader and the law minister embarrassed, news agency PTI reported.

"I would like to specially thank Pandit Ravi Shankarji," Sonowal said in the beginning of his speech at the launch of the "Digital North East Vision 2022" document here.

Pandit Ravi Shankar was a sitar maestro, who passed away in 2012.

However, Prasad, who was sitting on the dais, was quick to interrupt Sonowal. "Ah, you made me Pandit!" he quipped, evoking a round of laughter from the audience that included Sonowal's counterparts from Meghalaya and Tripura, along with a host of other ministers and senior bureaucrats, the report added.

Rectifying himself, Sonowal continued with his speech, mentioning the proper name and designation of the Union information technology minister.

However, the chief minister tried to defend the blooper in the concluding part of his speech.

"I am sorry for calling you (Prasad) in that way. But whenever I pronounce your name, I have the tendency to call you as Pandit. God has been kind enough to bless you with such wisdom, maturity and courage. You do everything so sincerely. I always feel so (addressing you as Pandit)," he said.

In his speech, Sonowal highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives in developing the north-east, especially the connectivity.

"I would like to specially thank Pandit Ravi Shankarji," Sonowal said in the beginning of his speech at the launch of the "Digital North East Vision 2022" document here.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Saturday addressed Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad as "Pandit Ravi Shankar", leaving the senior BJP leader and the law minister embarrassed, news agency PTI reported. "I would like to specially thank Pandit Ravi Shankarji," Sonowal said in the beginning of his speech at the launch of the "Digital North East Vision 2022" document here. Pandit Ravi Shankar was a sitar maestro, who passed away in 2012. However, Prasad, who was sitting on the dais, was quick to interrupt Sonowal. "Ah, you made me Pandit!" he quipped, evoking a round of laughter from the audience that included Sonowal's counterparts from Meghalaya and Tripura, along with a host of other ministers and senior bureaucrats, the report added. Rectifying himself, Sonowal continued with his speech, mentioning the proper name and designation of the Union information technology minister. However, the chief minister tried to defend the blooper in the concluding part of his speech. "I am sorry for calling you (Prasad) in that way. But whenever I pronounce your name, I have the tendency to call you as Pandit. God has been kind enough to bless you with such wisdom, maturity and courage. You do everything so sincerely. I always feel so (addressing you as Pandit)," he said. In his speech, Sonowal highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives in developing the north-east, especially the connectivity.

Assam CM's 'Pandit Ravi Shankar' gaffe embarrasses Union Law Minister

The BJP will be a part of the government in Jammu and Kashmir in the future, as the "jinx" of having never been in power in the state has been broken, senior party leader Ram Madhav said on Saturday.

The remarks of Madhav, who is in-charge of the party's affairs in the state, came months after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) pulled out of its alliance with the PDP in Jammu and Kashmir, PTI reported.

"I say with confidence that whenever the government is again formed in Jammu and Kashmir, the BJP will be a part of it," Madhav said, adding that the "jinx is broken".

BJP will take the state in a new direction&nbsp;when it comes back to power in the state, he said.&nbsp;

Talking about the Peoples Democratic Party-Bharatiya Janata Party coalition government that collapsed in June, Madhav said there were difficulties, but despite that, some things were achieved.

"We wanted to do a lot. But when we thought that things are not going according to us, we came out (of the government)," he was quoted as saying.

BJP's four-pronged approach at tackling the security situation in the state would continue despite the party not being in power in Jammu and Kashmir, he said.

"Kashmir is going nowhere. Kashmir is an integral part of India," he asserted.

Talking about the Peoples Democratic Party-Bharatiya Janata Party coalition government that collapsed in June, Madhav said there were difficulties, but despite that, some things were achieved.

The BJP will be a part of the government in Jammu and Kashmir in the future, as the "jinx" of having never been in power in the state has been broken, senior party leader Ram Madhav said on Saturday. The remarks of Madhav, who is in-charge of the party's affairs in the state, came months after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) pulled out of its alliance with the PDP in Jammu and Kashmir, PTI reported. "I say with confidence that whenever the government is again formed in Jammu and Kashmir, the BJP will be a part of it," Madhav said, adding that the "jinx is broken". BJP will take the state in a new direction when it comes back to power in the state, he said. Talking about the Peoples Democratic Party-Bharatiya Janata Party coalition government that collapsed in June, Madhav said there were difficulties, but despite that, some things were achieved. "We wanted to do a lot. But when we thought that things are not going according to us, we came out (of the government)," he was quoted as saying. BJP's four-pronged approach at tackling the security situation in the state would continue despite the party not being in power in Jammu and Kashmir, he said. "Kashmir is going nowhere. Kashmir is an integral part of India," he asserted.

BJP will be part of govt in Jammu and kashmir in future as 'Jinx' broken: Ram Madhav

After a brief lull, rains started pounding several parts of Kerala since Sunday morning, hampering relief operations undertaken&nbsp;by multiple agencies in the flood and landslides hit regions, news agency PTI reported.

However, the water level in the Idukki and Idamalayar reservoirs reduced, bringing some relief, with the authorities saying there was no need for any panic for people living downstream, officials quoted as saying.

There were no fresh casualties reported since yesterday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, they said.

33 people have died in the floods AND 6 are missing, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday.&nbsp;

''Such a destruction has never before been witnessed in the state. The entire state has come together in these circumstances and we are ready to do whatever is necessary,'' the CM added.&nbsp;

State Police, NDRF, Army and other forces are working with the same motive - to help the people of the state, he said.&nbsp;

''The PM called us and said that any more help needed, will be provided to us,'' Vijayan added.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will undertake an aerial survey of some flood-hit areas and hold discussions with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, camping in Kochi, later today.

More than 60,000 people have been accommodated in relief camps set up in different areas, including in&nbsp;Wayanad&nbsp;Wayanad where over 14,000 people had been sheltered.

No fresh casualties have been reported since yesterday and the death toll continues to stand at 37.

After a brief lull, rains started pounding several parts of Kerala since Sunday morning, hampering relief operations undertaken by multiple agencies in the flood and landslides hit regions, news agency PTI reported. However, the water level in the Idukki and Idamalayar reservoirs reduced, bringing some relief, with the authorities saying there was no need for any panic for people living downstream, officials quoted as saying. There were no fresh casualties reported since yesterday and the toll in the rain-related incidents since the current monsoon fury from August 8 stood at 37, they said. 33 people have died in the floods AND 6 are missing, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Sunday. ''Such a destruction has never before been witnessed in the state. The entire state has come together in these circumstances and we are ready to do whatever is necessary,'' the CM added. State Police, NDRF, Army and other forces are working with the same motive - to help the people of the state, he said. ''The PM called us and said that any more help needed, will be provided to us,'' Vijayan added. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh will undertake an aerial survey of some flood-hit areas and hold discussions with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, camping in Kochi, later today. More than 60,000 people have been accommodated in relief camps set up in different areas, including in Wayanad Wayanad where over 14,000 people had been sheltered.

After a brief lull rains pound Kerala again, hampers relief work

Natural causes such as cyclones and waves, as well as human activities like construction have led to nearly one-third of a large part of India's coastline to be eroded in the last 26 years, but almost an equal area has been added because of new sediment deposits, according to a government report.

The National Centre for Coastal Research surveyed 6,031 kilometres of India's 7,517-kilometre coastline from 1990 to 2016, and found that 33 per cent of it has witnessed erosion, most of it along the eastern coast facing the Bay of Bengal, with West Bengal recording the highest erosion. At the same time, 29 per cent of the surveyed coastline saw an accretion, or gain in deposits.

"Erosion and accretion are complementary to each other. If the sand and sediments have drifted from one side, it must accumulate somewhere," said M V Ramana Murthy, director of NCCR and one of the authors of the report.

The report says that 2,156.43 kilometres of the country's surveyed coastline faced erosion, while 1,941.24 kilometres saw accretion on shore.

It has long been known that the coastline is eroding, but officials needed to map and document it so that various agencies could take corrective measures, said M Rajeevan, Secretary in the Ministry of Earth Sciences and another co-author of the report.

Erosion leads to loss of human habitation as sea water enters the land. This also effects farming done along the coasts. For traditional fishermen with small boats, beaches are gateway to the sea since they don't use fishing harbours. Loss of beaches mean they have to use harbours to venture into the sea.

Accretion results in increase in the land area as beaches get extended, which is positive. However, if accretion happens in the deltas and creeks, then it has a negative impact on the ecosystem because silting of sediments stops the inflow of sea water into these areas.

The estuaries and creeks are a breeding ground for several species of aquatic flora and fauna. Any disturbance hurts the eco-system, Murthy said.

The report found that 63 per cent of West Bengal's coastline has eroded, losing 99 sq km of land in the last 26 years. The second-highest loss was in Puducherry (57 per cent), followed by Odisha (28 per cent) and Andhra Pradesh (27 per cent).

Kerala is the only state on the western coast that saw erosion of over 40 per cent of its coastline, while Gujarat, Diu and Daman saw an erosion of 26 per cent, Maharashtra 24 per cent, Goa 12 per cent and Karnataka 22 per cent.

On the other hand, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh saw a high-level of accretion 51 and 42 per cent of their coastline respectively, according to the report by the NCCR, an institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

West Bengal saw a 24 per cent accretion, Gujarat, Diu and Daman 31 per cent, Maharashtra 12 per cent, Goa 20 per cent, Karnataka 30 per cent, Kerala 21 per cent, and Tamil Nadu 23 per cent.

The survey measured 6,031 km of coastline, excluding creeks, and analysed 526 maps along 66 districts in 10 states and Union territories using data from five satellites - Landsat 5 and 7 (operated by NASA), ISRO's Resourcesat 1 and 2 andCartosat-1.

The causes behind erosion differ from state to state, and the NCCR has started the second phase of the study to state-wise analyse the reasons behind it, Murthy said.

He said major reasons for erosion are: changes in the wave pattern, wave intensity, cyclones and depressions that bring heavy rains and make the waters along the coastline choppy, reduction in sediments that rivers and other water bodies bring to the sea, rising sea-level and human activities like construction and dredging of ports.

Rajeevan, the ministry secretary, said the eastern coast showed more erosion because the Bay of Bengal witnesses rougher seas in comparison to the Arabian Sea.

Asked why Kerala, along the Arabian Sea, showed higher erosion compared to other western states, Rajeevan said the southern Arabian Sea is usually rough and tide movement is intense, which affects the coast.

The eastern coast is also prone to cyclones, depressions, Murthy said.

He said that besides the Southwest Monsoon (June to September), the eastern coast also witnesses the Northeast Monsoon from October to December and brings rain to coastal Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, which keeps the sea rough for most of the year.

"It has been recorded that the intensity and height of waves in the Bay of Bengal has increased over the years. This also affects the coastline," Murthy said.

Human activities is one of the reasons behind erosion of the coastline.

Murthy said there is a lot of dredging in port areas and sediments are usually dumped in deep seas.

"We usually recommend that the sediments should be dumped along the coast nearby," Murthy, who is often a part of the panels that give recommendations compiled in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report before giving clearance to ports, said.

The report says that 2,156.43 kilometres of the country's surveyed coastline faced erosion, while 1,941.24 kilometres saw accretion on shore.

Natural causes such as cyclones and waves, as well as human activities like construction have led to nearly one-third of a large part of India's coastline to be eroded in the last 26 years, but almost an equal area has been added because of new sediment deposits, according to a government report. The National Centre for Coastal Research surveyed 6,031 kilometres of India's 7,517-kilometre coastline from 1990 to 2016, and found that 33 per cent of it has witnessed erosion, most of it along the eastern coast facing the Bay of Bengal, with West Bengal recording the highest erosion. At the same time, 29 per cent of the surveyed coastline saw an accretion, or gain in deposits. "Erosion and accretion are complementary to each other. If the sand and sediments have drifted from one side, it must accumulate somewhere," said M V Ramana Murthy, director of NCCR and one of the authors of the report. The report says that 2,156.43 kilometres of the country's surveyed coastline faced erosion, while 1,941.24 kilometres saw accretion on shore. It has long been known that the coastline is eroding, but officials needed to map and document it so that various agencies could take corrective measures, said M Rajeevan, Secretary in the Ministry of Earth Sciences and another co-author of the report. Erosion leads to loss of human habitation as sea water enters the land. This also effects farming done along the coasts. For traditional fishermen with small boats, beaches are gateway to the sea since they don't use fishing harbours. Loss of beaches mean they have to use harbours to venture into the sea. Accretion results in increase in the land area as beaches get extended, which is positive. However, if accretion happens in the deltas and creeks, then it has a negative impact on the ecosystem because silting of sediments stops the inflow of sea water into these areas. The estuaries and creeks are a breeding ground for several species of aquatic flora and fauna. Any disturbance hurts the eco-system, Murthy said. The report found that 63 per cent of West Bengal's coastline has eroded, losing 99 sq km of land in the last 26 years. The second-highest loss was in Puducherry (57 per cent), followed by Odisha (28 per cent) and Andhra Pradesh (27 per cent). Kerala is the only state on the western coast that saw erosion of over 40 per cent of its coastline, while Gujarat, Diu and Daman saw an erosion of 26 per cent, Maharashtra 24 per cent, Goa 12 per cent and Karnataka 22 per cent. On the other hand, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh saw a high-level of accretion 51 and 42 per cent of their coastline respectively, according to the report by the NCCR, an institute under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. West Bengal saw a 24 per cent accretion, Gujarat, Diu and Daman 31 per cent, Maharashtra 12 per cent, Goa 20 per cent, Karnataka 30 per cent, Kerala 21 per cent, and Tamil Nadu 23 per cent. The survey measured 6,031 km of coastline, excluding creeks, and analysed 526 maps along 66 districts in 10 states and Union territories using data from five satellites - Landsat 5 and 7 (operated by NASA), ISRO's Resourcesat 1 and 2 andCartosat-1. The causes behind erosion differ from state to state, and the NCCR has started the second phase of the study to state-wise analyse the reasons behind it, Murthy said. He said major reasons for erosion are: changes in the wave pattern, wave intensity, cyclones and depressions that bring heavy rains and make the waters along the coastline choppy, reduction in sediments that rivers and other water bodies bring to the sea, rising sea-level and human activities like construction and dredging of ports. Rajeevan, the ministry secretary, said the eastern coast showed more erosion because the Bay of Bengal witnesses rougher seas in comparison to the Arabian Sea. Asked why Kerala, along the Arabian Sea, showed higher erosion compared to other western states, Rajeevan said the southern Arabian Sea is usually rough and tide movement is intense, which affects the coast. The eastern coast is also prone to cyclones, depressions, Murthy said. He said that besides the Southwest Monsoon (June to September), the eastern coast also witnesses the Northeast Monsoon from October to December and brings rain to coastal Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, which keeps the sea rough for most of the year. "It has been recorded that the intensity and height of waves in the Bay of Bengal has increased over the years. This also affects the coastline," Murthy said. Human activities is one of the reasons behind erosion of the coastline. Murthy said there is a lot of dredging in port areas and sediments are usually dumped in deep seas. "We usually recommend that the sediments should be dumped along the coast nearby," Murthy, who is often a part of the panels that give recommendations compiled in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report before giving clearance to ports, said.

Country lost one-third of its coastline from erosion, gained almost as much: Report

india-news

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

india news