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As rains continue to lash parts of North India and Yamuna river level rises undeterred, 14 more people were killed in rain-related incidents across Uttar Pradesh.

The total death toll in the state now rests at 108 owing to rain-related incidents which recently injured 7 more people, PTI reported. &nbsp;

"The toll since the last week in such incidents has reached 106 while the total number of those injured is over 100," officials stated.

According to reports, two people were killed each in Farukhabad and Bahraich while one each in Kheri, Raebareli, Lucknow, Kanpur Dehat, Barabanki, Sitapur and Sultanpur.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed senior district officials to alert people and has asked them to undertake extensive tours of the affected areas and carry out evacuations.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/yamuna-overflow-water-levels-expected-to-rise-in-delhincr-inching-towards-danger-mark-in-mathura-156126">Yamuna river, on Tuesday, rose to 206.05 meters in Delhi/NCR</a>, leading to around 14,000 evacuations.

"The level of Yamuna maintained at 206.05 meters for seven hours (till 8 pm). The rise was contributed by hourly discharge from Hathani Kund Barrage," Delhi government's flood control room said.

The river was flowing at 206.04 metres on Tuesday noon with the danger mark being 204.83 metres, officials said.

Yamuna river's water level is inching towards the danger mark in Uttar Pradesh's Mathura district, an official said today.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Yamuna river, on Tuesday, rose to 206.05 meters in Delhi/NCR, leading to around 14,000 evacuations.

As rains continue to lash parts of North India and Yamuna river level rises undeterred, 14 more people were killed in rain-related incidents across Uttar Pradesh. The total death toll in the state now rests at 108 owing to rain-related incidents which recently injured 7 more people, PTI reported. "The toll since the last week in such incidents has reached 106 while the total number of those injured is over 100," officials stated. According to reports, two people were killed each in Farukhabad and Bahraich while one each in Kheri, Raebareli, Lucknow, Kanpur Dehat, Barabanki, Sitapur and Sultanpur. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed senior district officials to alert people and has asked them to undertake extensive tours of the affected areas and carry out evacuations. Meanwhile, Yamuna river, on Tuesday, rose to 206.05 meters in Delhi/NCR, leading to around 14,000 evacuations. "The level of Yamuna maintained at 206.05 meters for seven hours (till 8 pm). The rise was contributed by hourly discharge from Hathani Kund Barrage," Delhi government's flood control room said. The river was flowing at 206.04 metres on Tuesday noon with the danger mark being 204.83 metres, officials said. Yamuna river's water level is inching towards the danger mark in Uttar Pradesh's Mathura district, an official said today. (With inputs from PTI)

Uttar Pradesh rains: 14 more deaths, 7 injured; death toll mounts to 106

The West Bengal Assembly passed today a motion against the final draft of the National Register of Citizens in Assam and adopted a unanimous proposal condemning it.

The motion was moved under the Rule 185 by state Parliamentary Affairs Minister Partha Chatterjee.

"We have to stage a protest together irrespective of our political colour. The NRC is nothing but a game plan for vote bank politics," Chatterjee said.

He claimed several well-known people have expressed their wish to visit Assam in this connection.

The leader of Opposition Abdul Mannan (Congress) questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue and said that if needed political parties might visit the national capital to stage protest against the NRC in Assam.

Senior CPI(M) leader and Left Front legislature party leader Sujan Chakraborty expressed his concern and described the entire exercise as anti-human.

The BJP's three MLAs were not present in the House during the discussion on the motion.

Mannan and Chakraborty had yesterday demanded that a motion is brought in the Assembly to discuss the issue.

Registrar General of India Sailesh had announced in Guwahati yesterday that 2,89,83,677 people were found to be eligible for inclusion in the final draft of the NRC out of a total 3,29,91,384 applicants and around 40.07 lakh of them did not find a place in the document.

The fate of these about 40 lakh people remains in limbo with the Centre declining to comment on their citizenship status.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today warned that exclusion of 4 million people from National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam could lead to "bloodbath" and a "civil war" in the country.

She also asked Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh to clarify whether the Centre intends to carry out an exercise similar to NRC-Assam in her state.

Banerjee had hit out at the Centre yesterday accusing it of resorting to "vote bank politics".&nbsp;

"This divide and rule policy will finish the country," she told a press conference in Kolkata and alleged it was a "game plan" to isolate and "throw out of the state" Bengali speaking people and Biharis.

Banerjee also claimed that names of people who have passports, Aadhaar and voter cards have also been excluded from the final draft.

Assam, which has witnessed an influx of people from neighbouring Bangladesh since the early 20th century, is the only state to have the NRC, which was first prepared in 1951.

The current NRC is being updated with March 24, 1971, as the cut-off date to include names of genuine Indian citizens.

The motion was moved under the Rule 185 by state Parliamentary Affairs Minister Partha Chatterjee.

The West Bengal Assembly passed today a motion against the final draft of the National Register of Citizens in Assam and adopted a unanimous proposal condemning it. The motion was moved under the Rule 185 by state Parliamentary Affairs Minister Partha Chatterjee. "We have to stage a protest together irrespective of our political colour. The NRC is nothing but a game plan for vote bank politics," Chatterjee said. He claimed several well-known people have expressed their wish to visit Assam in this connection. The leader of Opposition Abdul Mannan (Congress) questioned the silence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue and said that if needed political parties might visit the national capital to stage protest against the NRC in Assam. Senior CPI(M) leader and Left Front legislature party leader Sujan Chakraborty expressed his concern and described the entire exercise as anti-human. The BJP's three MLAs were not present in the House during the discussion on the motion. Mannan and Chakraborty had yesterday demanded that a motion is brought in the Assembly to discuss the issue. Registrar General of India Sailesh had announced in Guwahati yesterday that 2,89,83,677 people were found to be eligible for inclusion in the final draft of the NRC out of a total 3,29,91,384 applicants and around 40.07 lakh of them did not find a place in the document. The fate of these about 40 lakh people remains in limbo with the Centre declining to comment on their citizenship status. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today warned that exclusion of 4 million people from National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam could lead to "bloodbath" and a "civil war" in the country. She also asked Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh to clarify whether the Centre intends to carry out an exercise similar to NRC-Assam in her state. Banerjee had hit out at the Centre yesterday accusing it of resorting to "vote bank politics". "This divide and rule policy will finish the country," she told a press conference in Kolkata and alleged it was a "game plan" to isolate and "throw out of the state" Bengali speaking people and Biharis. Banerjee also claimed that names of people who have passports, Aadhaar and voter cards have also been excluded from the final draft. Assam, which has witnessed an influx of people from neighbouring Bangladesh since the early 20th century, is the only state to have the NRC, which was first prepared in 1951. The current NRC is being updated with March 24, 1971, as the cut-off date to include names of genuine Indian citizens.

West Bengal assembly passes motion against NRC final draft

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday suggested the use of ballot papers in India instead of EVMs, like Pakistan.&nbsp;

While addressing the media, Gandhi said that if Pakistan can use ballot papers then India should consider doing so as well as it could save a lot of electricity which gets wasted to&nbsp;keep the machines operational for hours.&nbsp;

Earlier this year as well, the Congress asserted that the Election Commission should go back to using ballot in order to ensure credibility to the election process.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi-led grand old party had said that the voting and counting process must remain transparent to retain people's faith in the integrity of the electoral system.

His comments come as voting for Pakistan general elections are underway. A <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-at-least-25-killed-in-blast-near-polling-booth-in-quetta-154380">powerful blast</a> ripped through an area in Quetta close to a booth as polling was underway on Wednesday morning, killing 32 and injuring at least 40.&nbsp;

In another incident, there were reports of a cracker being thrown at Bhuttos' Pakistan Peoples Party(PPP) facilitation camp near Shah Muhammad Primary School in Larkana. According to preliminary information, four people have been injured.

As many as 12,570 candidates will be contesting for a total 849 seats of national and provincial assemblies in the general election scheduled for July 25.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-pakistan-general-election-2018--pakistan-all-set-to-vote-today-amid-high-security-and-allegations-of-army-meddling-154268">Read the live updates on the Pakistan elections here&nbsp;</a>

His comments come as voting for Pakistan general elections are underway.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday suggested the use of ballot papers in India instead of EVMs, like Pakistan. While addressing the media, Gandhi said that if Pakistan can use ballot papers then India should consider doing so as well as it could save a lot of electricity which gets wasted to keep the machines operational for hours. Earlier this year as well, the Congress asserted that the Election Commission should go back to using ballot in order to ensure credibility to the election process. Rahul Gandhi-led grand old party had said that the voting and counting process must remain transparent to retain people's faith in the integrity of the electoral system. His comments come as voting for Pakistan general elections are underway. A powerful blast ripped through an area in Quetta close to a booth as polling was underway on Wednesday morning, killing 32 and injuring at least 40. In another incident, there were reports of a cracker being thrown at Bhuttos' Pakistan Peoples Party(PPP) facilitation camp near Shah Muhammad Primary School in Larkana. According to preliminary information, four people have been injured. As many as 12,570 candidates will be contesting for a total 849 seats of national and provincial assemblies in the general election scheduled for July 25. Read the live updates on the Pakistan elections here

India should also use ballot papers like Pakistan, save electricity: Rahul Gandhi

Nirav Modi's Firestar Diamonds International and Mehul Choksi's Gitanjali Gems withdrew their pleas from Delhi High Court today. The pleas were filed against the Enforcement Directorate's proceedings on Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi.

On July 26, the special &nbspPrevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Mumbai issued summons against diamond jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi. Both have been asked to appear before the court on September 26 and 27.

The move came after Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the multi-crore PNB scam, was reported to have moved to Antigua from the United States. Choksi was also reported having an Antiguan passport.&nbsp

Choksi reportedly claimed he had taken Antigua citizenship last year to expand his business as the passport of the Caribbean nation provides visa-free travel to 132 countries.

Meanwhile, it was reported that India requested authorities in Antigua and Barbuda to detain PNB scam fugitive Mehul Choksi after it received information about his presence in the Caribbean island, government sources said today.

"As soon as MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) received information of the likely presence of Mehul Choksi in Antigua, our High Commission in Georgetown had alerted the A&B (Antigua and Barbuda) government, in writing and verbally, to confirm his presence in their territory and detain him and prevent his movement by land, air or sea," a government source said.

Nirav Modi and Choksi are being investigated by the ED and the CBI after it was detected that they allegedly cheated the Punjab National Bank of more than Rs 13,400 crore with the purported involvement of a few of its employees.

The scam, which reportedly began in 2011, was detected in January this year, after which PNB officials reported it to the probe agencies.

The move came after Mehul Choksi was reported to have moved to Antigua from the United States.

Nirav Modi's Firestar Diamonds International and Mehul Choksi's Gitanjali Gems withdrew their pleas from Delhi High Court today. The pleas were filed against the Enforcement Directorate's proceedings on Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi. On July 26, the special &nbspPrevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Mumbai issued summons against diamond jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi. Both have been asked to appear before the court on September 26 and 27. The move came after Mehul Choksi, a key accused in the multi-crore PNB scam, was reported to have moved to Antigua from the United States. Choksi was also reported having an Antiguan passport. Choksi reportedly claimed he had taken Antigua citizenship last year to expand his business as the passport of the Caribbean nation provides visa-free travel to 132 countries. Meanwhile, it was reported that India requested authorities in Antigua and Barbuda to detain PNB scam fugitive Mehul Choksi after it received information about his presence in the Caribbean island, government sources said today. "As soon as MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) received information of the likely presence of Mehul Choksi in Antigua, our High Commission in Georgetown had alerted the A&B (Antigua and Barbuda) government, in writing and verbally, to confirm his presence in their territory and detain him and prevent his movement by land, air or sea," a government source said. Nirav Modi and Choksi are being investigated by the ED and the CBI after it was detected that they allegedly cheated the Punjab National Bank of more than Rs 13,400 crore with the purported involvement of a few of its employees. The scam, which reportedly began in 2011, was detected in January this year, after which PNB officials reported it to the probe agencies.

Mehul Choksi, Nirav Modi's firms withdraw pleas against ED's proceedings 

The Opposition TMC today forced adjournment of proceedings in the Rajya Sabha till noon over the issue of non-inclusion of over 40 lakh people in Assam's National Register of Citizens.

Amid the uproar, Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu told members that Home Minister Rajnath Singh will come to the House after attending to his duties in the Lok Sabha and reply to the "sensitive and serious matter".

TMC leader Derek O'Brien wanted his notice under Rule 267, which calls for setting aside of the day's business to take up issue pressed, to be taken up.

TMC members, who had yesterday led the protests that saw Rajya Sabha proceedings being adjourned without transacting any business, vociferously protested from the aisles.

As other members joined in, Naidu adjourned proceedings till noon

Before doing so Naidu pointed out that the home minister had on his request come to the House yesterday but could not make a statement.

Maintaining that the issue at hand had a historical background as it was rooted in the Assam Accord, he said today he has asked the home minister to come to the House.

The home minister, he said, has agreed to do so once he finishes replying to questions in the Lok Sabha.

The leader of the Opposition and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad asked if members would be given an opportunity to seek clarification after the home minister makes his statement. 
Naidu replied in the affirmative.

Out of the 3.29 crore applicants, 2.89 crores have been found eligible for inclusion in the complete draft of NRC, that was released in Guwahati yesterday. This meant that the names of 40.07 lakh have been left out.

Amid the uproar, Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu told members that Home Minister Rajnath Singh will come to the House after attending to his duties in the Lok Sabha.

The Opposition TMC today forced adjournment of proceedings in the Rajya Sabha till noon over the issue of non-inclusion of over 40 lakh people in Assam's National Register of Citizens. Amid the uproar, Rajya Sabha Chairman M Venkaiah Naidu told members that Home Minister Rajnath Singh will come to the House after attending to his duties in the Lok Sabha and reply to the "sensitive and serious matter". TMC leader Derek O'Brien wanted his notice under Rule 267, which calls for setting aside of the day's business to take up issue pressed, to be taken up. TMC members, who had yesterday led the protests that saw Rajya Sabha proceedings being adjourned without transacting any business, vociferously protested from the aisles. As other members joined in, Naidu adjourned proceedings till noon Before doing so Naidu pointed out that the home minister had on his request come to the House yesterday but could not make a statement. Maintaining that the issue at hand had a historical background as it was rooted in the Assam Accord, he said today he has asked the home minister to come to the House. The home minister, he said, has agreed to do so once he finishes replying to questions in the Lok Sabha. The leader of the Opposition and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad asked if members would be given an opportunity to seek clarification after the home minister makes his statement. Naidu replied in the affirmative. Out of the 3.29 crore applicants, 2.89 crores have been found eligible for inclusion in the complete draft of NRC, that was released in Guwahati yesterday. This meant that the names of 40.07 lakh have been left out.

TMC creates uproar in Rajya Sabha, House adjourned till noon over NRC issue

Four men narrowly escaped from floods after climbing out of their car in the nick of time as heavy water currents swept away the cars and the auto rickshaw.

Haldwani: Cars, auto get swept away in floods

Congress President Rahul will travel to Chennai today to meet ailing DMK chief M Karunanidhi.

Karunanidhi's son and DMK working President MK Stalin on Monday informed that his father's condition is now stable. The same was stated in the medical bulletin released by the hospital authorities on Sunday.

M Karunanidhi was rushed to hospital from Gopalapuram residence in Chennai around 1:30 AM on Saturday following a sudden drop in blood pressure. The DMK Chief was admitted to Kauvery hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU).&nbsp;

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi to travel to Chennai today to meet DMK chief M Karunanidhi who is admitted to Kauvery Hospital. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/O8LBm6BEPi">pic.twitter.com/O8LBm6BEPi</a>
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The nonagenarian leader was suffering from fever and infection for the past few days and was being treated round-the-clock by a team of hospitals and nursing professionals at his house. &nbsp;

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He continues to be under keen observation of the doctors. M Karunanidhi's condition is stable as stated in yesterday's medical bulletin: DMK working President MK Stalin <a href="https://t.co/A6R45fc006">pic.twitter.com/A6R45fc006</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1023972155728519168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Hundreds of DMK supporters have thronged outside Kauvery Hospital to pray for the wellbeing and speedy recovery of Tamil Nadu's 'Kalaignar' Karunanidhi.&nbsp;

Karunanidhi's son and DMK working President MK Stalin on Monday informed that his father's condition is now stable.

Congress President Rahul will travel to Chennai today to meet ailing DMK chief M Karunanidhi. Karunanidhi's son and DMK working President MK Stalin on Monday informed that his father's condition is now stable. The same was stated in the medical bulletin released by the hospital authorities on Sunday. M Karunanidhi was rushed to hospital from Gopalapuram residence in Chennai around 1:30 AM on Saturday following a sudden drop in blood pressure. The DMK Chief was admitted to Kauvery hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Congress President Rahul Gandhi to travel to Chennai today to meet DMK chief M Karunanidhi who is admitted to Kauvery Hospital. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/O8LBm6BEPi — ANI (@ANI) July 31, 2018 × The nonagenarian leader was suffering from fever and infection for the past few days and was being treated round-the-clock by a team of hospitals and nursing professionals at his house. He continues to be under keen observation of the doctors. M Karunanidhi's condition is stable as stated in yesterday's medical bulletin: DMK working President MK Stalin pic.twitter.com/A6R45fc006 — ANI (@ANI) July 30, 2018 × Hundreds of DMK supporters have thronged outside Kauvery Hospital to pray for the wellbeing and speedy recovery of Tamil Nadu's 'Kalaignar' Karunanidhi.

Rahul Gandhi to visit ailing Karunanidhi at Kauvery Hospital today

A member of Parliament from Trinamool Congress, Sugata Bose on Tuesday slammed the government's "operation insaniyat" policy for showing "insaniyat" (Humanity) to only those who are in Bangladesh.

While speaking in the Lok Sabha today Bose said, "External Affairs Ministry is conducting 'operation insaniyat' for Rohingyas in Bangladesh."

"There are 40,000 Rohingyas in India, will we show insaniyat for only those who are in Bangladesh?" he questioned.

"Our external affairs ministry has been conducting operation insaniyat&nbsp; in Cox's Bazaar in Bangladesh, are we only going to export our insaniyat &nbsp;to Bangladesh," he asked the government.

"Will we not show&nbsp;insaniyat in our own country," Bose said amid uproar in Parliament.

Later, Kiren Rijiju, Union minister of state for home affairs, responded to Sugata Bose's statement saying that "India is probably the only country which has adopted such a soft approach to refugees."

"This is an unfortunate statement by him(TMC's Sugata Bose). India is probably the only country which has adopted such a soft approach to refugees," Kiren Rijiju said.

"We also told Myanmar that we are ready to assist them in providing facilities to Rohingyas when they return," Rijiju added.

Kiren Rijiju said the government has reports that some of the Rohingyas have been involved in illegal activities but he would refrain from getting into details.He said since they are illegal migrants, they are not entitled to any government facility.

The minister said the priority of the government is to take care of rights of Indian citizens.

Rijiju added that though they have not been given legal documents like ration cards, if they have acquired such facilities, it must have been done through illegal means.

The states, he said, have to ensure that such illegal migrants do not get legal documents so that they do not stake claim to citizenship at a later date.

Home minister Rajnath Singh said the BSF and the Assam Rifles guarding international borders have been sensitised to ensure that such illegal migrants do not enter the country.

Millions of Rohingya fled Myanmar's western Rakhine state after a military crackdown that started in August last year in response to attacks by ARSA on security posts. Myanmar has rejected accusations of ethnic cleansing and dismissed most accounts of atrocities, blaming Rohingya "terrorists".

Many of these Rohingyas have crossed the border to take refuge in neighbouring countries.

Bangladesh reportedly has given shelter to about 600,000 Rohingya who escaped persecution in Myanmar.

Last year in September, India extended its support to Bangladesh in providing humanitarian assistance support in handling the Rohingya crisis after PM Modi met Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina.

Under &nbsp;"operation insaniyat" the relief material consisting of items required urgently by the affected people like rice, pulses, ready to eat noodles, mosquito nets etc were delivered to refugee camps in Bangladesh in multiple consignments by the Indian Air Force planes.

Kiren Rijiju, Union minister of state for home affairs responded to Sugata Bose's statement saying that 'India is probably the only country which has adopted such a soft approach to refugees.'

A member of Parliament from Trinamool Congress, Sugata Bose on Tuesday slammed the government's "operation insaniyat" policy for showing "insaniyat" (Humanity) to only those who are in Bangladesh. While speaking in the Lok Sabha today Bose said, "External Affairs Ministry is conducting 'operation insaniyat' for Rohingyas in Bangladesh." "There are 40,000 Rohingyas in India, will we show insaniyat for only those who are in Bangladesh?" he questioned. "Our external affairs ministry has been conducting operation insaniyat in Cox's Bazaar in Bangladesh, are we only going to export our insaniyat to Bangladesh," he asked the government. "Will we not show insaniyat in our own country," Bose said amid uproar in Parliament. Later, Kiren Rijiju, Union minister of state for home affairs, responded to Sugata Bose's statement saying that "India is probably the only country which has adopted such a soft approach to refugees." "This is an unfortunate statement by him(TMC's Sugata Bose). India is probably the only country which has adopted such a soft approach to refugees," Kiren Rijiju said. "We also told Myanmar that we are ready to assist them in providing facilities to Rohingyas when they return," Rijiju added. Kiren Rijiju said the government has reports that some of the Rohingyas have been involved in illegal activities but he would refrain from getting into details.He said since they are illegal migrants, they are not entitled to any government facility. The minister said the priority of the government is to take care of rights of Indian citizens. Rijiju added that though they have not been given legal documents like ration cards, if they have acquired such facilities, it must have been done through illegal means. The states, he said, have to ensure that such illegal migrants do not get legal documents so that they do not stake claim to citizenship at a later date. Home minister Rajnath Singh said the BSF and the Assam Rifles guarding international borders have been sensitised to ensure that such illegal migrants do not enter the country. Millions of Rohingya fled Myanmar's western Rakhine state after a military crackdown that started in August last year in response to attacks by ARSA on security posts. Myanmar has rejected accusations of ethnic cleansing and dismissed most accounts of atrocities, blaming Rohingya "terrorists". Many of these Rohingyas have crossed the border to take refuge in neighbouring countries. Bangladesh reportedly has given shelter to about 600,000 Rohingya who escaped persecution in Myanmar. Last year in September, India extended its support to Bangladesh in providing humanitarian assistance support in handling the Rohingya crisis after PM Modi met Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina. Under "operation insaniyat" the relief material consisting of items required urgently by the affected people like rice, pulses, ready to eat noodles, mosquito nets etc were delivered to refugee camps in Bangladesh in multiple consignments by the Indian Air Force planes.

'Will we show insaniyat for only those from Bangladesh,' asks TMC's Sugata Bose

As part of its focus on Indo-Pacific region, the US Department of Commerce announced to hold one of its flagship events in India next year.

"Trade Winds: India&nbspwill take place in New Delhi in the spring of 2019,"&nbspthe Department of Commerce announced, the day the Trump Administration unleashed a series of initiatives addressed at development and infrastructure projects of countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

"It will be a conference and trade mission to India and other surrounding countries where US exporters will meet with decisionmakers on opportunities they have learned about at DGM (Discover Global Markets) and Access Asia events,"&nbspthe Commerce Department said.

The DGM focused on Indo-Pacific will take place in Salt Lake City, on December 10-12. It will highlight opportunities for US exporters in Asia. It will also kick-off recruitment for the Trade Winds: India, an official release said.

Also the Trade Winds: Hong Kong is intended to take place in Hong Kong in the spring of 2020. It would bring US exporters back to Asia to close deals and explore more opportunities, it said.

According to the Department of Commerce, these events are part of the "Department's Access Asia programme" a new export promotion framework to increase US trade and investment in the Indo-Pacific region.

'Access Asia' is a series of 25 trade promotion outreach events in cities across the US that is sequential, multi-year, data and opportunity driven, and optimises US government resources, it said.

Noting that each event is an incremental effort feeding into the larger framework, the department said the seven successful events that have already taken place&nbspin Houston, San Francisco, San Diego, Portland, Pittsburgh, Fargo, and Oklahoma City&nbspbuild up to the newly announced events.

Using its trade data, it has identified US cities and sectors (like energy, aviation/defence, information and communication technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing) with export growth potential.

Its foreign officers attend each Access Asia event to highlight the specific, actionable opportunities in their markets.

The DGM focused on Indo-Pacific will take place in Salt Lake City, on December 10-12.

As part of its focus on Indo-Pacific region, the US Department of Commerce announced to hold one of its flagship events in India next year. "Trade Winds: India&nbspwill take place in New Delhi in the spring of 2019,"&nbspthe Department of Commerce announced, the day the Trump Administration unleashed a series of initiatives addressed at development and infrastructure projects of countries in the Indo-Pacific region. "It will be a conference and trade mission to India and other surrounding countries where US exporters will meet with decisionmakers on opportunities they have learned about at DGM (Discover Global Markets) and Access Asia events,"&nbspthe Commerce Department said. The DGM focused on Indo-Pacific will take place in Salt Lake City, on December 10-12. It will highlight opportunities for US exporters in Asia. It will also kick-off recruitment for the Trade Winds: India, an official release said. Also the Trade Winds: Hong Kong is intended to take place in Hong Kong in the spring of 2020. It would bring US exporters back to Asia to close deals and explore more opportunities, it said. According to the Department of Commerce, these events are part of the "Department's Access Asia programme" a new export promotion framework to increase US trade and investment in the Indo-Pacific region. 'Access Asia' is a series of 25 trade promotion outreach events in cities across the US that is sequential, multi-year, data and opportunity driven, and optimises US government resources, it said. Noting that each event is an incremental effort feeding into the larger framework, the department said the seven successful events that have already taken place&nbspin Houston, San Francisco, San Diego, Portland, Pittsburgh, Fargo, and Oklahoma City&nbspbuild up to the newly announced events. Using its trade data, it has identified US cities and sectors (like energy, aviation/defence, information and communication technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing) with export growth potential. Its foreign officers attend each Access Asia event to highlight the specific, actionable opportunities in their markets.

US Department of Commerce announces flagship event in India in 2019

Indians are the maximum among those who have applied for the H1B visa in the United States, finds a study conducted by a Washington-based think-tank National Foundation For American Policy.&nbsp;

The report also noted that the rejections of H1B visa petitions by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) &nbsp;is at an all-time high.

The H1-B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said that it has returned all the unselected H-1B petitions for the fiscal year 2019, beginning October 1 which were submitted to the agency in April.

The Congressional-mandated cap of 65,000 H-1B visas and another 20,000 in the advanced degree categories were reached within the first five days after the USCIS started accepting H-1B applications.

As an H-1B non-immigrant, the applicant may be admitted for a period of up to three years.

The time period may be extended, but generally cannot go beyond a total of six years. However, there are some exceptions to it.

On April 6, around 94,213 H-1B petitions were received in the general category and 95,885 in the advanced degree category, as a result of which the federal agency resorted to a computerised draw of lots to select the successful applicants.

Petitions of those not selected have now been returned, the USCIS said.&nbsp;

The H-1B application process began from April 2 as the top federal agency temporarily suspended the premium processing of all such work visas subject to the fiscal cap.

The suspension of premium processing of all the H-1B petitions which are subject to the annual caps is expected to last until September 10, 2018.

During this time, the USCIS said it will continue to accept premium processing requests for the H-1B petitions that are not subject to the fiscal 2019 cap. &nbsp; &nbsp;

According to the USCIS, between 2007 and 2017, it received the maximum number of 2.2 million H-1B petitions from high-skilled Indians. India was followed by China with 301,000 H-1B petitions during the same period. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

On April 6, USCIS received 94,213 H-1B petitions in the general category and 95,885 in the advanced degree category.

Indians are the maximum among those who have applied for the H1B visa in the United States, finds a study conducted by a Washington-based think-tank National Foundation For American Policy. The report also noted that the rejections of H1B visa petitions by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is at an all-time high. The H1-B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. The technology companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said that it has returned all the unselected H-1B petitions for the fiscal year 2019, beginning October 1 which were submitted to the agency in April. The Congressional-mandated cap of 65,000 H-1B visas and another 20,000 in the advanced degree categories were reached within the first five days after the USCIS started accepting H-1B applications. As an H-1B non-immigrant, the applicant may be admitted for a period of up to three years. The time period may be extended, but generally cannot go beyond a total of six years. However, there are some exceptions to it. On April 6, around 94,213 H-1B petitions were received in the general category and 95,885 in the advanced degree category, as a result of which the federal agency resorted to a computerised draw of lots to select the successful applicants. Petitions of those not selected have now been returned, the USCIS said. The H-1B application process began from April 2 as the top federal agency temporarily suspended the premium processing of all such work visas subject to the fiscal cap. The suspension of premium processing of all the H-1B petitions which are subject to the annual caps is expected to last until September 10, 2018. During this time, the USCIS said it will continue to accept premium processing requests for the H-1B petitions that are not subject to the fiscal 2019 cap. According to the USCIS, between 2007 and 2017, it received the maximum number of 2.2 million H-1B petitions from high-skilled Indians. India was followed by China with 301,000 H-1B petitions during the same period. (With inputs from PTI)

H1B visa: Applications highest from India, denials by US at all-time high

A group terrorists on Monday hurled a grenade on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party at Sherbagh in Anantnag district of South Kashmir.

The attacked injured three security personnel, further details are awaited.

Terrorists on Sunday killed a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan in South Kashmir's Pulwama.

The deceased, Naseer Ahmed, belonged to 134 Batallion of CRPF. The authorities are investigating the case.

In another incident, a civilian and one security guard were injured after two terrorists barged into a bank and opened fire in south Kashmir's Kulgam district.&nbsp

In an alleged attempt to loot the bank, a group of terrorists forced their entry into the Mohamadpora branch of Jammu and Kashmir Bank.

A day earlier, on Thursday, five security personnel got injured after in a terrorist grenade at a CRPF bunker in Bijbehara town of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)

The attacked injured three security personnel, further details are awaited.

A group terrorists on Monday hurled a grenade on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party at Sherbagh in Anantnag district of South Kashmir. The attacked injured three security personnel, further details are awaited. Terrorists on Sunday killed a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan in South Kashmir's Pulwama. The deceased, Naseer Ahmed, belonged to 134 Batallion of CRPF. The authorities are investigating the case. In another incident, a civilian and one security guard were injured after two terrorists barged into a bank and opened fire in south Kashmir's Kulgam district. In an alleged attempt to loot the bank, a group of terrorists forced their entry into the Mohamadpora branch of Jammu and Kashmir Bank. A day earlier, on Thursday, five security personnel got injured after in a terrorist grenade at a CRPF bunker in Bijbehara town of Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir: 3 injured in terrorist attack at CRPF party in Anantnag 

Days after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trai-chairman-rs-sharma-posts-aadhaar-number-as-challenge-personal-details-leaked-155413">TRAI chief's Aadhaar dare</a> created a flutter, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) today asked people not to share publicly their 12-digit identifier on Internet and social media, or pose such challenges to others.

"Such activities are uncalled for and should be refrained as these are not in accordance with the law," UIDAI said in a statement.&nbsp

An all-out war has been raging on Twitter since Saturday after Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) chief R S Sharma shared his Aadhaar number publicly, challenging anyone to show how mere knowledge of the number can be misused to harm him. While some claimed to have got access to his bank account number and email, Sharma refuted the claims saying they were untrue.&nbsp

UIDAI said people should "refrain from publicly putting their Aadhaar numbers on Internet and social media and posing challenges to others".&nbsp

UIDAI also warned that doing Aadhaar authentication through somebody else's Aadhaar number or using someone else's Aadhaar number for any purpose may amount to impersonation and thereby a criminal offence under the Aadhaar Act and Indian Penal Code. Any person indulging in such acts or abetting or inciting others to do so makes themselves liable for prosecution and penal action under the law. Therefore people should refrain from such acts, it added.

Aadhaar, it said, is a unique identity which can be authenticated to prove one's identity for various services, benefits and subsidies. "UIDAI in its regular media campaigns have been consistently making people aware not to display or publish or share their Aadhaar number in public domain," the statement said.

UIDAI said the 12 digit Aadhaar number "is personally sensitive information" just like bank account number, passport number, PAN number, which "should be strictly shared only on a need basis for a legitimate use for establishing identity and for legitimate transactions".&nbsp

Also, as per the Aadhaar Act and other IT rules, personally sensitive information should not be published or shared publicly, it said.&nbsp 
"Indiscriminate and unwanted publication of any personally sensitive information whether Aadhaar or any other, may render the concerned person vulnerable and, therefore, should be avoided."&nbsp

'Such activities are uncalled for and should be refrained as these are not in accordance with the law,' the UIDAI said in a statement

Days after TRAI chief's Aadhaar dare created a flutter, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) today asked people not to share publicly their 12-digit identifier on Internet and social media, or pose such challenges to others. "Such activities are uncalled for and should be refrained as these are not in accordance with the law," UIDAI said in a statement. An all-out war has been raging on Twitter since Saturday after Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) chief R S Sharma shared his Aadhaar number publicly, challenging anyone to show how mere knowledge of the number can be misused to harm him. While some claimed to have got access to his bank account number and email, Sharma refuted the claims saying they were untrue. UIDAI said people should "refrain from publicly putting their Aadhaar numbers on Internet and social media and posing challenges to others". UIDAI also warned that doing Aadhaar authentication through somebody else's Aadhaar number or using someone else's Aadhaar number for any purpose may amount to impersonation and thereby a criminal offence under the Aadhaar Act and Indian Penal Code. Any person indulging in such acts or abetting or inciting others to do so makes themselves liable for prosecution and penal action under the law. Therefore people should refrain from such acts, it added. Aadhaar, it said, is a unique identity which can be authenticated to prove one's identity for various services, benefits and subsidies. "UIDAI in its regular media campaigns have been consistently making people aware not to display or publish or share their Aadhaar number in public domain," the statement said. UIDAI said the 12 digit Aadhaar number "is personally sensitive information" just like bank account number, passport number, PAN number, which "should be strictly shared only on a need basis for a legitimate use for establishing identity and for legitimate transactions". Also, as per the Aadhaar Act and other IT rules, personally sensitive information should not be published or shared publicly, it said. "Indiscriminate and unwanted publication of any personally sensitive information whether Aadhaar or any other, may render the concerned person vulnerable and, therefore, should be avoided."

After TRAI chief's dare, UIDAI tells people not to share their Aadhaar numbers

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today alleged that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) exercise in Assam was done with a "political motive" to divide people and warned that it would lead to bloodbath and a civil war in the country.

Attacking the BJP, she said the saffron party is trying to divide the country and asserted this will not be tolerated.

"The NRC is being done with a political motive. We will not let this happen. They (BJP) are trying to divide the people. The situation cannot be tolerated. There will be a civil war, bloodbath in the country," Banerjee told a conclave here.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cong-did-not-have-courage-to-identify-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-we-are-doing-it-bjps-amit-shah-156003">Congress did not have </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cong-did-not-have-courage-to-identify-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-we-are-doing-it-bjps-amit-shah-156003">courage</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cong-did-not-have-courage-to-identify-illegal-immigrants-in-assam-we-are-doing-it-bjps-amit-shah-156003"> to identify illegal immigrants in Assam, we are doing it, says BJP's Amit Shah</a>

The massive Supreme Court-monitored exercise to identify genuine Indian nationals living in Assam excluded over 40 lakh people from the final draft list.

The issue rocked both house of Parliament after which Home Minister Rajnath Singh appealed to the opposition <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nrc-row-mamata-banerjee-to-meet-rajnath-singh-today-155956">not to politicise the "sensitive" matter</a> as the list has been published on the directives of the Supreme Court and the Centre has "no role" in it.&nbsp;

He asserted that no "coercive" action will be taken against those whose names were excluded from the NRC draft list.&nbsp;

Mamata meets Rajnath Singh

Banerjee met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh later in the day.&nbsp;

She said she had asked Singh to either amend the NRC Bill or introduce a new bill and that he had assured her the government would not "harass people".&nbsp;

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I asked him to amend NRC Bill or bring new bill. He has assured me they (govt) will not harass people. I also spoke to him about reports of NRC being implemented in Bengal, I told him that if such a thing happens there can be a civil war: WB CM after meeting Rajnath Singh <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/ug5ADUXJlK">pic.twitter.com/ug5ADUXJlK</a>
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Singh said he had told Banerjee "nobody will be harassed in this entire process and at every stage of the process, adequate opportunity of being heard will be given to all persons."

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Nobody will be harassed in this entire process&at every stage of the process, adequate opportunity of being heard will be given to all persons. The draft NRC has been prepared in accordance with the law under the monitoring of the SC: Rajnath Singh on meeting with Mamata Banerjee
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1024292782859415552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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No country in the world tolerates infiltrators in its territory, but in our country there are some politicians who stand by them and threaten of a civil war: Ram Madhav, BJP <a href="https://t.co/Lp5ESlHoH7">pic.twitter.com/Lp5ESlHoH7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1024306463290937344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

'The NRC is being done with a political motive. We will not let this happen. They (BJP) are trying to divide the people. The situation cannot be tolerated,' Banerjee said in Delhi

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today alleged that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) exercise in Assam was done with a "political motive" to divide people and warned that it would lead to bloodbath and a civil war in the country. Attacking the BJP, she said the saffron party is trying to divide the country and asserted this will not be tolerated. "The NRC is being done with a political motive. We will not let this happen. They (BJP) are trying to divide the people. The situation cannot be tolerated. There will be a civil war, bloodbath in the country," Banerjee told a conclave here. Also read: Congress did not have courage to identify illegal immigrants in Assam, we are doing it, says BJP's Amit Shah The massive Supreme Court-monitored exercise to identify genuine Indian nationals living in Assam excluded over 40 lakh people from the final draft list. The issue rocked both house of Parliament after which Home Minister Rajnath Singh appealed to the opposition not to politicise the "sensitive" matter as the list has been published on the directives of the Supreme Court and the Centre has "no role" in it. He asserted that no "coercive" action will be taken against those whose names were excluded from the NRC draft list. Mamata meets Rajnath Singh Banerjee met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh later in the day. She said she had asked Singh to either amend the NRC Bill or introduce a new bill and that he had assured her the government would not "harass people". I asked him to amend NRC Bill or bring new bill. He has assured me they (govt) will not harass people. I also spoke to him about reports of NRC being implemented in Bengal, I told him that if such a thing happens there can be a civil war: WB CM after meeting Rajnath Singh #Delhi pic.twitter.com/ug5ADUXJlK — ANI (@ANI) July 31, 2018 × Singh said he had told Banerjee "nobody will be harassed in this entire process and at every stage of the process, adequate opportunity of being heard will be given to all persons." Nobody will be harassed in this entire process&at every stage of the process, adequate opportunity of being heard will be given to all persons. The draft NRC has been prepared in accordance with the law under the monitoring of the SC: Rajnath Singh on meeting with Mamata Banerjee — ANI (@ANI) July 31, 2018 × No country in the world tolerates infiltrators in its territory, but in our country there are some politicians who stand by them and threaten of a civil war: Ram Madhav, BJP pic.twitter.com/Lp5ESlHoH7 — ANI (@ANI) July 31, 2018 ×

There will be civil war, bloodbath because of Assam's NRC: Mamata Banerjee

The family of India’s former President late Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed’s brother have been left out from the draft of National Register of Citizens (NRC) which was published on Monday.&nbsp;

Ziauddin, the son of Fakhruddin’s brother Lt Ekramuddin Ali Ahmed family hailing from Rangia, in Kamrup district of Assam expressed shock that none of the family members’ names was on the list. He said that he would try to find documents to make it to the NRC list.

A day after the NRC list was released, Ziauddin Ali Ahmed, the nephew of former President of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed told media persons of his name missing in the list.

"Our names are not mentioned in NRC list as my father's name is not mentioned in the Legacy Data document, I will get in touch with my uncle's family members," said Ziauddin Ali Ahmed, nephew of former President of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed.

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Our names are not mentioned in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NRC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NRC</a> list as my father's name is not mentioned in the Legacy Data document, I will get in touch with my uncle's family members: Ziauddin Ali Ahmed, nephew of former President of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Assam?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Assam</a> <a href="https://t.co/7Vwe9Syl2y">pic.twitter.com/7Vwe9Syl2y</a>
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Fakhruddin Ali's family members are among 40 lakh people who did not find their names in the complete draft Assam NRC list.

A day after the NRC list was released, Ziauddin Ali Ahmed, the nephew of former President of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed told media persons of his name missing in the list.

The family of India’s former President late Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed’s brother have been left out from the draft of National Register of Citizens (NRC) which was published on Monday. Ziauddin, the son of Fakhruddin’s brother Lt Ekramuddin Ali Ahmed family hailing from Rangia, in Kamrup district of Assam expressed shock that none of the family members’ names was on the list. He said that he would try to find documents to make it to the NRC list. A day after the NRC list was released, Ziauddin Ali Ahmed, the nephew of former President of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed told media persons of his name missing in the list. "Our names are not mentioned in NRC list as my father's name is not mentioned in the Legacy Data document, I will get in touch with my uncle's family members," said Ziauddin Ali Ahmed, nephew of former President of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed. Our names are not mentioned in #NRC list as my father's name is not mentioned in the Legacy Data document, I will get in touch with my uncle's family members: Ziauddin Ali Ahmed, nephew of former President of India Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed. #Assam pic.twitter.com/7Vwe9Syl2y — ANI (@ANI) July 31, 2018 × Fakhruddin Ali's family members are among 40 lakh people who did not find their names in the complete draft Assam NRC list.

Assam: Former President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed's family not on NRC

Following the release of the final draft of Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC), a delegation of the Congress All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) has decided to visit the state in the first week of August.

The draft list, which was released on Monday, has left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam, incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants. The list was released in line with the directions of the Supreme Court to identify permanent residents and illegal migrants from Bangladesh.

Soon after the final draft was released, the Congress and TMC alleged that a lot of irregularities were present in the report, with Assam Congress MP Ripun Bora terming it as a politically motivated move. The Opposition leaders also created a ruckus in the Parliament, leading to the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.

Meanwhile, TMC leader Sukhendu Sekhar Roy said excluding 40 lakh people from the list would have serious ramifications on the demography of different states adjoining Assam. He further asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to justify the same in the Parliament.

Security was beefed up across the state to maintain law and order following the publication of the draft.

According to media reports, the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) was the first to celebrate the draft publication by distributing sweets. They were the ones who raised the issue in the Supreme Court and had been leading a movement for decades.

A prohibitory order was reportedly imposed under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in 14 districts including Sonitpur, Karimganj, Golaghat, Barpeta, Dhubri, Dima Hasao, and Darrang.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured that no coercive action would be taken against those whose names were excluded from the final draft list.

Clarifying that this is the draft list and not the final one, Singh added that "no misinformation should be spread in this regard".

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

The list was released in line with the directions of the Supreme Court to identify permanent residents and illegal migrants from Bangladesh.

Following the release of the final draft of Assam's National Register of Citizens (NRC), a delegation of the Congress All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) has decided to visit the state in the first week of August. The draft list, which was released on Monday, has left out nearly 40 lakh people in Assam, incorporating names of 2.89 crore people out of 3.29 crore applicants. The list was released in line with the directions of the Supreme Court to identify permanent residents and illegal migrants from Bangladesh. Soon after the final draft was released, the Congress and TMC alleged that a lot of irregularities were present in the report, with Assam Congress MP Ripun Bora terming it as a politically motivated move. The Opposition leaders also created a ruckus in the Parliament, leading to the adjournment of the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. Meanwhile, TMC leader Sukhendu Sekhar Roy said excluding 40 lakh people from the list would have serious ramifications on the demography of different states adjoining Assam. He further asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to justify the same in the Parliament. Security was beefed up across the state to maintain law and order following the publication of the draft. According to media reports, the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) was the first to celebrate the draft publication by distributing sweets. They were the ones who raised the issue in the Supreme Court and had been leading a movement for decades. A prohibitory order was reportedly imposed under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in 14 districts including Sonitpur, Karimganj, Golaghat, Barpeta, Dhubri, Dima Hasao, and Darrang. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured that no coercive action would be taken against those whose names were excluded from the final draft list. Clarifying that this is the draft list and not the final one, Singh added that "no misinformation should be spread in this regard". 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 row: Trinamool Congress to visit Assam on August 2

The Supreme Court has questioned the coordinator for NRC Assam and had put questions on the standard operation procedure for exercise. The court has questioned as to who will be conducting the exercise. All must get a fair chance to prove their claims.

WION Gravitas: SC; All those not in NRC list will get a fair chance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Imran Khan on Monday to congratulate him on his party's victory in the Pakistan general election, with both men discussing regional peace.

It was their first call since Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party emerged victorious from the July 25 vote that has been marred by claims of pre-election rigging and irregularities on the day.

Relations between the nuclear-armed rivals have frayed in the last couple of years, with direct talks stalled amid diplomatic rows and military firing across the Line of Control frontier that divides the disputed region of Kashmir.

Khan, widely seen as Pakistan's prime minister-in-waiting, is now courting independent candidates and minor parties to form a coalition government in a nation that has fought three wars with India.

In the phone call, Modi "reiterated his vision of peace and development in the entire neighbourhood", according to a statement by India's Ministry of External Affairs.

Khan declared in his victory speech that he wanted to resolve the long-standing territorial dispute over Kashmir, saying "if India comes and takes one step towards us, we will take two".

Khan's media team said he had told Modi it was vital both countries focus on pulling millions out of poverty.

The PTI said Khan had also told Modi that issues between the two nations must be resolved through talks. "Wars can breed tragedies instead of facilitating resolution of conflicts," he said, according to a PTI statement.

"Prime Minister (Modi) expressed hope that democracy will take deeper roots in Pakistan," the Indian ministry said in a brief statement.

European Union observers say there was uneven playing field during the election as major obstacles were put in the way of a rival party that was led by jailed former premier Nawaz Sharif. The United States has also expressed concern about what it calls electoral "flaws".

Khan has offered to investigate all claims of irregularities and promised to build a new Pakistan with an Islamic welfare state that would seek to elevate those mired in poverty.

Some analysts and commentators have said Pakistan's democracy has been weakened by meddling by the armed forces. Both Khan and the military deny colluding with each other.

&nbsp;

The PTI said Khan had also told Modi that issues between the two nations must be resolved through talks.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Imran Khan on Monday to congratulate him on his party's victory in the Pakistan general election, with both men discussing regional peace. It was their first call since Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party emerged victorious from the July 25 vote that has been marred by claims of pre-election rigging and irregularities on the day. Relations between the nuclear-armed rivals have frayed in the last couple of years, with direct talks stalled amid diplomatic rows and military firing across the Line of Control frontier that divides the disputed region of Kashmir. Khan, widely seen as Pakistan's prime minister-in-waiting, is now courting independent candidates and minor parties to form a coalition government in a nation that has fought three wars with India. In the phone call, Modi "reiterated his vision of peace and development in the entire neighbourhood", according to a statement by India's Ministry of External Affairs. Khan declared in his victory speech that he wanted to resolve the long-standing territorial dispute over Kashmir, saying "if India comes and takes one step towards us, we will take two". Khan's media team said he had told Modi it was vital both countries focus on pulling millions out of poverty. The PTI said Khan had also told Modi that issues between the two nations must be resolved through talks. "Wars can breed tragedies instead of facilitating resolution of conflicts," he said, according to a PTI statement. "Prime Minister (Modi) expressed hope that democracy will take deeper roots in Pakistan," the Indian ministry said in a brief statement. European Union observers say there was uneven playing field during the election as major obstacles were put in the way of a rival party that was led by jailed former premier Nawaz Sharif. The United States has also expressed concern about what it calls electoral "flaws". Khan has offered to investigate all claims of irregularities and promised to build a new Pakistan with an Islamic welfare state that would seek to elevate those mired in poverty. Some analysts and commentators have said Pakistan's democracy has been weakened by meddling by the armed forces. Both Khan and the military deny colluding with each other.

In phone call to Imran Khan, PM Modi reiterates his vision of peace, development

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's YouTube channel has crossed the 1 million mark. The Prime Minister's YouTube channel features videos and footage from his latest rallies, public gatherings and his Mann Ki Baat recordings.&nbsp

PM Modi is also the most followed Indian on Twitter with over 43 million followers while on Facebook over 43 million users follow him.&nbsp

"Another testimony of the common people's love and affection for Honourable PM Narendra Modi. The number of subscribers on his YouTube channel has crossed the 1 million bar," Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda tweeted.

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Another testimony of the common people’s love & affection for Hon’ble PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. Number of subscribers on his <a href="https://twitter.com/YouTube?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YouTube</a> channel has crossed the 1 million bar. <a href="https://t.co/J2x8Go41cp">pic.twitter.com/J2x8Go41cp</a>
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda/status/1023985319404658690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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BJP president Amit Shah is the second most followed leader in India on social media portals with a total of over 2 crore followers on Twitter and Facebook.

PM Modi is also the most followed Indian on Twitter with over 43 million followers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's YouTube channel has crossed the 1 million mark. The Prime Minister's YouTube channel features videos and footage from his latest rallies, public gatherings and his Mann Ki Baat recordings. PM Modi is also the most followed Indian on Twitter with over 43 million followers while on Facebook over 43 million users follow him. "Another testimony of the common people's love and affection for Honourable PM Narendra Modi. The number of subscribers on his YouTube channel has crossed the 1 million bar," Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda tweeted. Another testimony of the common people’s love & affection for Hon’ble PM @narendramodi. Number of subscribers on his @YouTube channel has crossed the 1 million bar. pic.twitter.com/J2x8Go41cp — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) July 30, 2018 × BJP president Amit Shah is the second most followed leader in India on social media portals with a total of over 2 crore followers on Twitter and Facebook.

PM Narendra Modi's YouTube channel crosses 1 million mark

Although WhatsApp recently limited forwards on the app, Ministry of Electronic and IT Secretary Ajay Kumar Sawhney on Monday noted that this alone would not be enough to tackle the growing problem of circulation of fake or speculative news.

"It (WhatsApp) has become a publishing medium, so there should be rules made for it, as publishing is from one to many. Some steps have been taken, some more measures are all also needed," Sawhney told reporters here.

Meanwhile, cyber expert Pawan Duggal said that although WhatsApp's move is welcome, it would not have a substantial impact.

"WhatsApp has taken a great step, but it would make a great impact as it does not guarantee that people won't cut and paste and forward the messages further. Moreover, they have to deal with the main problem, that such content should not feature on the application and if it does, it should be removed immediately," Duggal told ANI.

The cyber expert further suggested that WhatsApp must appoint a grievance officer in India for quick and effective resolution, as messages spread like wildfire on WhatsApp.

He also advised that WhatsApp should follow the provisions, rules, and regulations of the information technology laws of the country.

Last week, WhatsApp had announced the launch of a pilot program to limit forwarding on the messaging app in India.

In a statement, Whatsapp said, "In India - where people forward more messages, photos, and videos than any other country in the world - we will also test a lower limit of 5 chats at once and we'll remove the quick forward button next to media messages."

This came after the Indian government mounted pressure on social media sites and messaging apps to regulate norms accordingly to handle the menace of rumours and fake news on its platform.&nbsp

Last week, WhatsApp had announced the launch of a pilot program to limit forwarding on the messaging app in India.

Although WhatsApp recently limited forwards on the app, Ministry of Electronic and IT Secretary Ajay Kumar Sawhney on Monday noted that this alone would not be enough to tackle the growing problem of circulation of fake or speculative news. "It (WhatsApp) has become a publishing medium, so there should be rules made for it, as publishing is from one to many. Some steps have been taken, some more measures are all also needed," Sawhney told reporters here. Meanwhile, cyber expert Pawan Duggal said that although WhatsApp's move is welcome, it would not have a substantial impact. "WhatsApp has taken a great step, but it would make a great impact as it does not guarantee that people won't cut and paste and forward the messages further. Moreover, they have to deal with the main problem, that such content should not feature on the application and if it does, it should be removed immediately," Duggal told ANI. The cyber expert further suggested that WhatsApp must appoint a grievance officer in India for quick and effective resolution, as messages spread like wildfire on WhatsApp. He also advised that WhatsApp should follow the provisions, rules, and regulations of the information technology laws of the country. Last week, WhatsApp had announced the launch of a pilot program to limit forwarding on the messaging app in India. In a statement, Whatsapp said, "In India - where people forward more messages, photos, and videos than any other country in the world - we will also test a lower limit of 5 chats at once and we'll remove the quick forward button next to media messages." This came after the Indian government mounted pressure on social media sites and messaging apps to regulate norms accordingly to handle the menace of rumours and fake news on its platform.

IT Secy calls for more stringent rules on WhatsApp

Vice President M&nbspVenkaiah Naidu said in order to envision an "inclusive new India," the society needs to focus more on the education of children.

"We need to rethink education. We need to review what is taught and how it is taught. The schools and colleges must get transformed into active, vibrant places of learning where students experience the joy of learning," the

Vice President said on Monday while addressing a gathering after conferring the Nehru and Tagore Literacy Awards instituted by the Indian Adult Education Association.

Further talking about the human development index report, Naidu said: "I am saddened by reports that reflect the predominance of rote memorization, lack of learning materials and inadequate attention to different dimensions of learning. There is much more to be done in terms of improving the quality of education."

The Vice President went on to add that literacy gives greater freedom to participate in society more actively and access better learning and earning opportunities.

"India has made rapid progress over the last seven decades. When India got independence, the literacy rate of the country was 14 per cent with female literacy as low as 8 per cent. With the expansion of the education system, the country has tried to ensure universal primary education and literacy. Thanks to these efforts, as per 2011 census, the literacy rate of the country was 73 per cent, with male literacy at 80.9 per cent and female literacy at 64.6 per cent," Naidu said.

"Today, we have one of the largest education systems in the world with 789 universities and 37,204 colleges and 11,443 stand-alone educational institutions. However, according to the Human Development Index report, India ranks 131 out of 193 countries and 282 million persons cannot still read and write," he asserted.

The Vice President further added: "We have adopted a Constitution that has equality and inclusion as key principles. Our government has adopted 'Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas' as an overarching goal. We are envisioning an inclusive new India. To achieve this, we cannot afford to ignore this huge challenge. We have to recognise that there is a persisting gender gap of 16.3 per cent. Clearly, we have to focus much more sharply on women's literacy and gender gaps in literacy and education."

The Vice President went on to add that literacy gives greater freedom to participate in society more actively and access better learning and earning opportunities.

Vice President M&nbspVenkaiah Naidu said in order to envision an "inclusive new India," the society needs to focus more on the education of children. "We need to rethink education. We need to review what is taught and how it is taught. The schools and colleges must get transformed into active, vibrant places of learning where students experience the joy of learning," the Vice President said on Monday while addressing a gathering after conferring the Nehru and Tagore Literacy Awards instituted by the Indian Adult Education Association. Further talking about the human development index report, Naidu said: "I am saddened by reports that reflect the predominance of rote memorization, lack of learning materials and inadequate attention to different dimensions of learning. There is much more to be done in terms of improving the quality of education." The Vice President went on to add that literacy gives greater freedom to participate in society more actively and access better learning and earning opportunities. "India has made rapid progress over the last seven decades. When India got independence, the literacy rate of the country was 14 per cent with female literacy as low as 8 per cent. With the expansion of the education system, the country has tried to ensure universal primary education and literacy. Thanks to these efforts, as per 2011 census, the literacy rate of the country was 73 per cent, with male literacy at 80.9 per cent and female literacy at 64.6 per cent," Naidu said. "Today, we have one of the largest education systems in the world with 789 universities and 37,204 colleges and 11,443 stand-alone educational institutions. However, according to the Human Development Index report, India ranks 131 out of 193 countries and 282 million persons cannot still read and write," he asserted. The Vice President further added: "We have adopted a Constitution that has equality and inclusion as key principles. Our government has adopted 'Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas' as an overarching goal. We are envisioning an inclusive new India. To achieve this, we cannot afford to ignore this huge challenge. We have to recognise that there is a persisting gender gap of 16.3 per cent. Clearly, we have to focus much more sharply on women's literacy and gender gaps in literacy and education."

We need to rethink education: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu

BJP President Amit Shah hit out at the Congress today, saying it had not had the courage to identify illegal immigrants living in Assam.&nbsp;

Shah was speaking in the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;

"NRC is being conducted on the SC order. There are 40 lakh people (missing in the list) ... Whom do you want to save? You want to save illegal Bangaldesis," PTI quoted the the BJP chief as saying.&nbsp;

Shah added that the National Register of Citizens was similar to the Assam Accord, signed by Rajiv Gandhi and the leaders of the Assam Movement in 1985. The movement — to identify and deport illegal immigrants living in Assam — had been launched in 1979. It culminated in the signing of the Assam Accord.&nbsp;

"This was the Congress PM's initiative. He (Rajiv Gandhi) did not have the courage. We have courage and we are doing it," PTI quoted Shah as saying.&nbsp;

Assam published the second draft of its NRC on Monday. The first draft had been published on December 31 last year.&nbsp;

Some 40 lakh people — out of a total Assam population of 3.29 crore — now find themselves <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/final-draft-of-assams-nrc-report-published-40-lakh-people-excluded-in-list-155639">out of the NRC</a>.&nbsp;

While the NRC is still not final, and they have recourse to legal options going all the way up to the Supreme Court, those 40 lakh Assam residents could end up losing their Assamese, and therefore Indian, citizenship.&nbsp;

Former Assam Chief Minister Prafulla Mahanta has since the publication of the NRC called for the deportation of all illegal immigrants. Mahanta had risen to prominence as a leader of the AASU.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has on the other hand <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nrc-row-mamata-banerjee-to-meet-rajnath-singh-today-155956">attacked the NRC</a>, which was Supreme Court-mandated, as saying Indian citizens were being turned into refugees and that Bengal would shelter them.&nbsp;

The BJP has in turn said the illegal immigrants in Bengal should be identified next, and that their number runs into "crores".&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha meanwhile was adjourned for the day after Shah's comments led to vociferous protests from the Congress and the TMC.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

'NRC is being conducted on the SC order. There are 40 lakh people (missing in the list) ... Whom do you want to save? You want to save illegal Bangaldesis,' the BJP President said

BJP President Amit Shah hit out at the Congress today, saying it had not had the courage to identify illegal immigrants living in Assam. Shah was speaking in the Rajya Sabha. "NRC is being conducted on the SC order. There are 40 lakh people (missing in the list) ... Whom do you want to save? You want to save illegal Bangaldesis," PTI quoted the the BJP chief as saying. Shah added that the National Register of Citizens was similar to the Assam Accord, signed by Rajiv Gandhi and the leaders of the Assam Movement in 1985. The movement — to identify and deport illegal immigrants living in Assam — had been launched in 1979. It culminated in the signing of the Assam Accord. "This was the Congress PM's initiative. He (Rajiv Gandhi) did not have the courage. We have courage and we are doing it," PTI quoted Shah as saying. Assam published the second draft of its NRC on Monday. The first draft had been published on December 31 last year. Some 40 lakh people — out of a total Assam population of 3.29 crore — now find themselves out of the NRC. While the NRC is still not final, and they have recourse to legal options going all the way up to the Supreme Court, those 40 lakh Assam residents could end up losing their Assamese, and therefore Indian, citizenship. Former Assam Chief Minister Prafulla Mahanta has since the publication of the NRC called for the deportation of all illegal immigrants. Mahanta had risen to prominence as a leader of the AASU. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has on the other hand attacked the NRC, which was Supreme Court-mandated, as saying Indian citizens were being turned into refugees and that Bengal would shelter them. The BJP has in turn said the illegal immigrants in Bengal should be identified next, and that their number runs into "crores". The Rajya Sabha meanwhile was adjourned for the day after Shah's comments led to vociferous protests from the Congress and the TMC.

Congress did not have courage to identify illegal immigrants in Assam: BJP's Amit Shah

The water level in the Yamuna river continued to rise and stayed over the danger mark for the fourth consecutive day today. River Yamuna continues to flow above the danger level, water level reaches 206 mark, ANI reported.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday directed officials to make arrangements for the affected people. As many as 10,000 people have been evacuated to safer places so far.

On Monday evening, Yamuna was flowing at 205.78 metres the danger mark at 204.83 metres, officials said.&nbsp

Traffic movement on Old Yamuna Bridge in Delhi was closed yesterday after the water level in the river rose due to rains. Last evening, the river was flowing at 205.5 metres.

"As the water level in the Yamuna river breached the danger mark, the Shahdara district magistrate issued orders for the closure of Old Yamuna Bridge. Accordingly, we have diverted the traffic towards Geeta Colony flyover and ITO," he said.

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Delhi: River Yamuna continues to flow above danger mark, water level reaches 206 marks <a href="https://t.co/GAjB3VW4kV">pic.twitter.com/GAjB3VW4kV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1024115733339492352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, discharge from the Hathani Kund Barrage between 6 am and 9 pm was 5,13,554 cusecs, with water level expected to rise further.

The highest water level recorded at Old Yamuna Bridge was 207.49 metres in 1978. It was 207.11 metres in 2010 and 207.32 metres in 2013, according to the Delhi Disaster Management Authority.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp

&nbsp

Meanwhile, discharge from the Hathani Kund Barrage between 6 am and 9 pm was 5,13,554 cusecs, with water level expected to rise further.

The water level in the Yamuna river continued to rise and stayed over the danger mark for the fourth consecutive day today. River Yamuna continues to flow above the danger level, water level reaches 206 mark, ANI reported. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday directed officials to make arrangements for the affected people. As many as 10,000 people have been evacuated to safer places so far. On Monday evening, Yamuna was flowing at 205.78 metres the danger mark at 204.83 metres, officials said. Traffic movement on Old Yamuna Bridge in Delhi was closed yesterday after the water level in the river rose due to rains. Last evening, the river was flowing at 205.5 metres. "As the water level in the Yamuna river breached the danger mark, the Shahdara district magistrate issued orders for the closure of Old Yamuna Bridge. Accordingly, we have diverted the traffic towards Geeta Colony flyover and ITO," he said. Delhi: River Yamuna continues to flow above danger mark, water level reaches 206 marks pic.twitter.com/GAjB3VW4kV — ANI (@ANI) July 31, 2018 × Meanwhile, discharge from the Hathani Kund Barrage between 6 am and 9 pm was 5,13,554 cusecs, with water level expected to rise further. The highest water level recorded at Old Yamuna Bridge was 207.49 metres in 1978. It was 207.11 metres in 2010 and 207.32 metres in 2013, according to the Delhi Disaster Management Authority. (With inputs from PTI)

Yamuna water rages above danger level, reaches 206 mark

There has been a marked a substantial increase in denial of H-1B visa petitions of Indians, as compared to people of other nationalities.

Substancial increase in denial of H-1B visa petitions of Indians by US immigration authorities

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday made it clear that the state government is committed to giving job and academic reservations to the agitating Maratha community but only if it stands legal scrutiny.

Speaking at a function here to release a book on Chhatrapati Rajaram, King Shivaji's descendant, Fadnavis said the decision cannot be taken only on the basis of sentiments.

He described as lamentable the incidents of violence and alleged suicides for the quota demand reported during the ongoing agitation by Maratha organisations in the last few days.&nbsp

"If sentiments are aroused, there will be unrest in the community. The legal process needs to be completed and our government will do that in a time-bound manner," he added.

The BJP-led government in the state enacted a law to provide reservation in jobs and education to the community within a year of coming to power, he noted.

"But the High Court stayed the decision and the Supreme Court upheld the high court order. There is a 1992 Supreme Court judgement that reservations should not exceed 50 per cent.&nbsp

To increase them (beyond 50 per cent) there should be extraordinary circumstances and these (circumstances) must be put forth through the State Backward Class Commission (before the court)," Fadnavis pointed out.

His government formed the commission and the process of surveys and public hearings had started, he said.

"But the commission chairman passed away. Now new chairman has been appointed and the process has restarted.&nbsp

After its report is submitted, we will call an assembly session to take the reservation demand to its logical conclusion," he said.

People need to understand that to ensure that reservations stand legal scrutiny, the 1992 Supreme Court judgement must be followed, the chief minister said.

"We have to give reservations to the Marathas without tampering with the SC-ST-OBC quota," he added.

"We are being asked to issue an ordinance. It can be done, but it will not stand (scrutiny) in the court....Do we want to fool people or grant reservations genuinely?" he asked.&nbsp

(With inputs from Agencies)

The BJP-led government in the state enacted a law to provide reservation in jobs and education to the community within a year of coming to power, he noted.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday made it clear that the state government is committed to giving job and academic reservations to the agitating Maratha community but only if it stands legal scrutiny. Speaking at a function here to release a book on Chhatrapati Rajaram, King Shivaji's descendant, Fadnavis said the decision cannot be taken only on the basis of sentiments. He described as lamentable the incidents of violence and alleged suicides for the quota demand reported during the ongoing agitation by Maratha organisations in the last few days. "If sentiments are aroused, there will be unrest in the community. The legal process needs to be completed and our government will do that in a time-bound manner," he added. The BJP-led government in the state enacted a law to provide reservation in jobs and education to the community within a year of coming to power, he noted. "But the High Court stayed the decision and the Supreme Court upheld the high court order. There is a 1992 Supreme Court judgement that reservations should not exceed 50 per cent. To increase them (beyond 50 per cent) there should be extraordinary circumstances and these (circumstances) must be put forth through the State Backward Class Commission (before the court)," Fadnavis pointed out. His government formed the commission and the process of surveys and public hearings had started, he said. "But the commission chairman passed away. Now new chairman has been appointed and the process has restarted. After its report is submitted, we will call an assembly session to take the reservation demand to its logical conclusion," he said. People need to understand that to ensure that reservations stand legal scrutiny, the 1992 Supreme Court judgement must be followed, the chief minister said. "We have to give reservations to the Marathas without tampering with the SC-ST-OBC quota," he added. "We are being asked to issue an ordinance. It can be done, but it will not stand (scrutiny) in the court....Do we want to fool people or grant reservations genuinely?" he asked. (With inputs from Agencies)

Maratha quota stir: Legal process has to be completed for granting quota, says Maharashtra CM

<a href="wionews.com/world/north-korea-may-be-building-one-or-two-icbms-report-155833">North Korea may be building one or two ICBMs: Report</a>

Even as Trump and Kim talk peace, according to a US newspaper Kim Jong-un's regime is building one or two new liquid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missiles(ICBMs).

<a href="wionews.com/india-news/nrc-final-draft-government-did-a-tardy-job-says-rahul-gandhi--155850">NRC final draft: Government did a tardy job, says Rahul Gandhi</a>

After the final draft of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) was released earlier today, Congress President Rahul Gandhi dubbed the execution of the critical and highly sensitive exercise as tardy.

<a href="wionews.com/world/trump-says-willing-to-meet-with-iran-leaders-any-time-155827">Trump says willing to meet with Iran </a><a class="gr-progress" href="wionews.com/world/trump-says-willing-to-meet-with-iran-leaders-any-time-155827">leaders '</a><a href="wionews.com/world/trump-says-willing-to-meet-with-iran-leaders-any-time-155827">any time'</a>

Donald Trump seemed to jettison threats of impending war with Iran on Monday, saying he was willing to meet the country's leaders without precondition, a dramatic about-face by the enigmatic US president.

<a href="wionews.com/world/counting-begins-in-zimbabwes-first-post-mugabe-election-155842">Counting begins in Zimbabwe's first post-Mugabe election</a>

Counting was underway in Zimbabwe's first election since Robert Mugabe was ousted after 37 years in power as observers warned of possible shortcomings in Monday's landmark poll.

<a href="wionews.com/entertainment/priyanka-chopra-bags-another-hollywood-project-to-work-with-chris-pratt-in-cowboy-ninja-viking-155829">Priyanka Chopra bags another Hollywood project, to work with Chris Pratt in ‘Cowboy Ninja Viking’</a>

Priyanka Chopra proves she is truly on a career-high as she bags yet another Hollywood project in the middle of a Bollywood chaos as she walked out of Salman Khan’s film Bharat last week. While Bharat was expected to be her comeback-of-sorts to Bollywood after two years of break, she stepped out owing to personal reasons that the film’s director Ali Abbas Zafar tweeted about. This is the real reason why she walked out!

&nbsp

North Korea may be building one or two ICBMs: Report Even as Trump and Kim talk peace, according to a US newspaper Kim Jong-un's regime is building one or two new liquid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missiles(ICBMs). NRC final draft: Government did a tardy job, says Rahul Gandhi After the final draft of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) was released earlier today, Congress President Rahul Gandhi dubbed the execution of the critical and highly sensitive exercise as tardy. Trump says willing to meet with Iran leaders 'any time' Donald Trump seemed to jettison threats of impending war with Iran on Monday, saying he was willing to meet the country's leaders without precondition, a dramatic about-face by the enigmatic US president. Counting begins in Zimbabwe's first post-Mugabe election Counting was underway in Zimbabwe's first election since Robert Mugabe was ousted after 37 years in power as observers warned of possible shortcomings in Monday's landmark poll. Priyanka Chopra bags another Hollywood project, to work with Chris Pratt in ‘Cowboy Ninja Viking’ Priyanka Chopra proves she is truly on a career-high as she bags yet another Hollywood project in the middle of a Bollywood chaos as she walked out of Salman Khan’s film Bharat last week. While Bharat was expected to be her comeback-of-sorts to Bollywood after two years of break, she stepped out owing to personal reasons that the film’s director Ali Abbas Zafar tweeted about. This is the real reason why she walked out!

News brief: Big stories of the day

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday visited DMK patriarch Karunanidhi, who is undergoing treatment at Kauvery hospital in Chennai.&nbsp;

"Although there has been a resolution of the condition which led to his hospital admission, an extended period of hospitalisation will be necessary due to age-related overall decline in his general health, altered liver function and haematological parameters," hospital's Executive Director Dr Aravindan Selvaraj said in a press release.

Recalling that the former chief minister was admitted with a drop in blood pressure on July 28, he said Karunanidhi was later "resuscitated and stabilised" in the ICU and managed by a team of doctors and nurses. 
There was a setback in his clinical condition on July 29 due to difficulty in breathing, but the DMK leader "responded well to medical management and his vital signs have gradually normalised", he said.

Selvaraj said Karunanidhi continues to maintain his vital signs with active medical support.

Karunanidhi is in the intensive care unit of the hospital for the fourth day today.

Gandhi, who visited Karunanidhi in the ICU, said the ailing leader was stable.

“I visited Kalaignar today. Wonderful to see that the Tamil fighting spirit that has endeared him to millions, is still strong! I join his fans all around the world, his well-wishers and his family, in wishing him a speedy recovery,” Gandhi tweeted after meeting Karunanidhi.

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I visited Kalaignar today. Wonderful to see that the Tamil fighting spirit that has endeared him to millions, is still strong! I join his fans all around the world, his well wishers and his family, in wishing him a speedy recovery. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karunanidhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karunanidhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/3QEv9myfCn">pic.twitter.com/3QEv9myfCn</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1024266010680086528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The nonagenarian leader was suffering from fever and infection for the past few days and was being treated round-the-clock by a team of hospitals and nursing professionals at his house. &nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar had said Karunanidhi was “stable and breathing on his own”. Karunanidhi’s son M K Stalin had said last night his condition was stable.

Rahul Gandhi spent about 15 minutes with the DMK supremo at Chennai's Kauvery Hospital Tuesday. The Congress President said his mother Sonia Gandhi had sent her best wishes and regards to Karunanidhi and his family.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday visited DMK patriarch Karunanidhi, who is undergoing treatment at Kauvery hospital in Chennai. "Although there has been a resolution of the condition which led to his hospital admission, an extended period of hospitalisation will be necessary due to age-related overall decline in his general health, altered liver function and haematological parameters," hospital's Executive Director Dr Aravindan Selvaraj said in a press release. Recalling that the former chief minister was admitted with a drop in blood pressure on July 28, he said Karunanidhi was later "resuscitated and stabilised" in the ICU and managed by a team of doctors and nurses. There was a setback in his clinical condition on July 29 due to difficulty in breathing, but the DMK leader "responded well to medical management and his vital signs have gradually normalised", he said. Selvaraj said Karunanidhi continues to maintain his vital signs with active medical support. Karunanidhi is in the intensive care unit of the hospital for the fourth day today. Gandhi, who visited Karunanidhi in the ICU, said the ailing leader was stable. “I visited Kalaignar today. Wonderful to see that the Tamil fighting spirit that has endeared him to millions, is still strong! I join his fans all around the world, his well-wishers and his family, in wishing him a speedy recovery,” Gandhi tweeted after meeting Karunanidhi. I visited Kalaignar today. Wonderful to see that the Tamil fighting spirit that has endeared him to millions, is still strong! I join his fans all around the world, his well wishers and his family, in wishing him a speedy recovery. #Karunanidhi pic.twitter.com/3QEv9myfCn — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 31, 2018 × The nonagenarian leader was suffering from fever and infection for the past few days and was being treated round-the-clock by a team of hospitals and nursing professionals at his house. Earlier in the day, Health Minister C Vijayabaskar had said Karunanidhi was “stable and breathing on his own”. Karunanidhi’s son M K Stalin had said last night his condition was stable.

Karunanidhi will require extended hospitalisation due to 'decline' in general health: Hospital

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