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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog, in Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre.

While welcoming the Chief Ministers and other delegates from across the nation, the Prime Minister reiterated that the Governing Council is a platform that can bring about "historic change."

Keeping the flood-affected states in the forefront, Prime Minister Modi assured that the Centre would provide all assistance to them, to deal with the flood situation.

Tripura, Assam, Mizoram and Manipur are the four northeast states that have been badly affected by floods over the past few days.

While chairing the day-long meeting, which includes Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from the States, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories and senior officials from the Government of India, the Prime Minister said the Governing Council has approached complex issues of governance as 'Team India', in the spirit of cooperative, competitive federalism. He described the smooth rollout and implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as an example of this.

PM Modi said that Chief Ministers of States had played a key role in policy formulation, through sub-groups and committees on issues such as Swachh Bharat Mission, Digital Transactions, and Skill Development.

The recommendations of these sub-groups have been incorporated by various Ministries of the Union Government, he added.

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Delhi: PM Narendra Modi with Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy, Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on sidelines of NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting <a href="https://t.co/4yIG1tGz7C">pic.twitter.com/4yIG1tGz7C</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1008233493837410304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He further stated that the Indian economy has grown at a healthy rate of 7.7 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2017-18 and said it will be challenging now to take this growth rate to double digits, for which many more important steps have to be taken.

He said that the vision of a New India by 2022, is now a resolve of the people of India. In this context, he mentioned the issues on the agenda today, including doubling of farmers income, development of aspirational districts, Ayushman Bharat,

Mission Indradhanush, Nutrition Mission and celebrations of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

The Prime Minister said that 1.5 lakh Health and Wellness Centres are being constructed under Ayushman Bharat and 10 crore families will be provided health assurance worth Rs 5 lakh every year.

A comprehensive approach is being adopted for education, under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, he added.

The Prime Minister also said that schemes such as Mudra Yojana, Jan Dhan Yojana and Stand Up India, are helping in greater financial inclusion, and emphasised the need for tackling economic imbalances on priority.

He said that all aspects and parameters of human development need to be addressed and improved upon in the 115 aspirational districts.

Talking about the Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, he said it has emerged as a new model for implementation of schemes and the target was recently accomplished in about 17,000 villages.

The Prime Minister added that this has so far been extended to 45,000 villages in the Aspirational Districts and the target is universal coverage in seven important welfare schemes: Ujjwala, Saubhagya, Ujala, Jan Dhan, Jeevan Jyoti Yojana, Suraksha Bima Yojana, and Mission Indradhanush.

India has no shortage of capabilities, capacities and resources, PM Modi asserted.

He said that in the current financial year, states are receiving over Rs 11 lakh crore from the Centre, which represents an increase of about Rs 6 lakh crore, from the last year of the previous government (Congress).

The Prime Minister said Governing Council meeting represents the hopes and aspirations of the people of India and added that it is the responsibility of this gathering to make all efforts to fulfill them.

Earlier, the Chief Ministers and other delegates were welcomed to the meeting by Vice Chairman of the NITI Aayog, Rajiv Kumar.

The discussions are being moderated by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

The Governing Council of NITI Aayog is the premier body tasked with evolving a shared vision of national development priorities, sectors, and strategies with the active involvement of States in shaping the development narrative.&nbsp;

Keeping the flood-affected states in forefront, Prime Minister Modi assured that the Centre would provide all assistance to them, to deal with the flood situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog, in Rashtrapati Bhawan Cultural Centre. While welcoming the Chief Ministers and other delegates from across the nation, the Prime Minister reiterated that the Governing Council is a platform that can bring about "historic change." Keeping the flood-affected states in the forefront, Prime Minister Modi assured that the Centre would provide all assistance to them, to deal with the flood situation. Tripura, Assam, Mizoram and Manipur are the four northeast states that have been badly affected by floods over the past few days. While chairing the day-long meeting, which includes Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from the States, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories and senior officials from the Government of India, the Prime Minister said the Governing Council has approached complex issues of governance as 'Team India', in the spirit of cooperative, competitive federalism. He described the smooth rollout and implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as an example of this. PM Modi said that Chief Ministers of States had played a key role in policy formulation, through sub-groups and committees on issues such as Swachh Bharat Mission, Digital Transactions, and Skill Development. The recommendations of these sub-groups have been incorporated by various Ministries of the Union Government, he added. Delhi: PM Narendra Modi with Karnataka CM HD Kumaraswamy, Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu, West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee and Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on sidelines of NITI Aayog Governing Council meeting pic.twitter.com/4yIG1tGz7C — ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2018 × He further stated that the Indian economy has grown at a healthy rate of 7.7 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2017-18 and said it will be challenging now to take this growth rate to double digits, for which many more important steps have to be taken. He said that the vision of a New India by 2022, is now a resolve of the people of India. In this context, he mentioned the issues on the agenda today, including doubling of farmers income, development of aspirational districts, Ayushman Bharat, Mission Indradhanush, Nutrition Mission and celebrations of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The Prime Minister said that 1.5 lakh Health and Wellness Centres are being constructed under Ayushman Bharat and 10 crore families will be provided health assurance worth Rs 5 lakh every year. A comprehensive approach is being adopted for education, under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, he added. The Prime Minister also said that schemes such as Mudra Yojana, Jan Dhan Yojana and Stand Up India, are helping in greater financial inclusion, and emphasised the need for tackling economic imbalances on priority. He said that all aspects and parameters of human development need to be addressed and improved upon in the 115 aspirational districts. Talking about the Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, he said it has emerged as a new model for implementation of schemes and the target was recently accomplished in about 17,000 villages. The Prime Minister added that this has so far been extended to 45,000 villages in the Aspirational Districts and the target is universal coverage in seven important welfare schemes: Ujjwala, Saubhagya, Ujala, Jan Dhan, Jeevan Jyoti Yojana, Suraksha Bima Yojana, and Mission Indradhanush. India has no shortage of capabilities, capacities and resources, PM Modi asserted. He said that in the current financial year, states are receiving over Rs 11 lakh crore from the Centre, which represents an increase of about Rs 6 lakh crore, from the last year of the previous government (Congress). The Prime Minister said Governing Council meeting represents the hopes and aspirations of the people of India and added that it is the responsibility of this gathering to make all efforts to fulfill them. Earlier, the Chief Ministers and other delegates were welcomed to the meeting by Vice Chairman of the NITI Aayog, Rajiv Kumar. The discussions are being moderated by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The Governing Council of NITI Aayog is the premier body tasked with evolving a shared vision of national development priorities, sectors, and strategies with the active involvement of States in shaping the development narrative.

NITI Aayog council meet can bring historic change: PM Modi

The travel time between Mumbai and Pune, which now is around four hours, will get reduced to just 25 minutes if a high-tech transportation system being explored by the Maharashtra government is implemented.

The government is exploring the Hyperloop technology to drastically cut the travel time between the two key cities, located around 200km away from each other. It has approached a US-based firm, Virgin HyperloopOne, for the modern train project.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, currently in the US, visited the Virgin HyperloopOne test site in Nevada and met the company's CEO and board member, Rob Lloyd, a statement from the CMO said.

The Government of Maharashtra is exploring this transportation technology (Hyperloop) for the Mumbai-Pune route with an aim to reduce the travel time between them to just 25 minutes, said the statement.

Virgin HyperloopOne plans to send engineers to Pune shortly to conduct a study, it said.

The Pune Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (PMRDA) has identified a 15-km long demonstration track for Hyperloop.

It is noteworthy that 70 per cent of materials and components required for hyperloop can be sourced within Maharashtra itself, the statement added.

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Virgin <a href="https://twitter.com/HyperloopOne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HyperloopOne</a> plans to send engineers to Pune shortly. 
PMRDA has identified 15 km row demonstration track for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hyperloop?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hyperloop</a> . It is noteworthy that 70% of materials and components required for Hyperloop can be sourced within Maharashtra itself. <a href="https://t.co/97D2nHgGAf">pic.twitter.com/97D2nHgGAf</a>
— CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra/status/1007882812492517376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Virgin HyperloopOne founder-chairman Richard Branson had announced a framework agreement for the project in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Fadnavis during his visit to Mumbai for the `Magnetic Maharashtra' conclave held in February.

The company recently completed a pre-feasibility study for the Mumbai-Pune route.

The electric efficient hyperloop system will ease expressway congestion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions up to 1,50,000 ton annually, the statement added.&nbsp;

Virgin HyperloopOne plans to send engineers to Pune shortly to conduct a study

The travel time between Mumbai and Pune, which now is around four hours, will get reduced to just 25 minutes if a high-tech transportation system being explored by the Maharashtra government is implemented. The government is exploring the Hyperloop technology to drastically cut the travel time between the two key cities, located around 200km away from each other. It has approached a US-based firm, Virgin HyperloopOne, for the modern train project. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, currently in the US, visited the Virgin HyperloopOne test site in Nevada and met the company's CEO and board member, Rob Lloyd, a statement from the CMO said. The Government of Maharashtra is exploring this transportation technology (Hyperloop) for the Mumbai-Pune route with an aim to reduce the travel time between them to just 25 minutes, said the statement. Virgin HyperloopOne plans to send engineers to Pune shortly to conduct a study, it said. The Pune Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (PMRDA) has identified a 15-km long demonstration track for Hyperloop. It is noteworthy that 70 per cent of materials and components required for hyperloop can be sourced within Maharashtra itself, the statement added. Virgin @HyperloopOne plans to send engineers to Pune shortly. PMRDA has identified 15 km row demonstration track for #Hyperloop . It is noteworthy that 70% of materials and components required for Hyperloop can be sourced within Maharashtra itself. pic.twitter.com/97D2nHgGAf — CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) June 16, 2018 × Virgin HyperloopOne founder-chairman Richard Branson had announced a framework agreement for the project in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Fadnavis during his visit to Mumbai for the `Magnetic Maharashtra' conclave held in February. The company recently completed a pre-feasibility study for the Mumbai-Pune route. The electric efficient hyperloop system will ease expressway congestion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions up to 1,50,000 ton annually, the statement added.

Maharashtra govt explores Hyperloop technology to reduce Mumbai-Pune trip to 25 minutes

Rifleman Aurangzeb's brother on Saturday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to avenge his brother's gruesome death. Armyman Aurangzeb was abducted by terrorists from Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. His bullet-ridden body was recovered from Jammu and Kashmir's Gusoo area on Thursday.&nbsp;

"I would urge Prime Minister Modi to avenge our brother's death. We want hundred of their people to pay the price for my brother's loss of life. We have reached out to the government, if the government is not able to avenge Aurangzeb's death, we know how to do it ourselves and we will do it," he told ANI.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-eid-over-centre-calls-off-ramzan-ceasefire-in-kashmir-144938">Centre says it will not extend Ramzan ceasefire in Kashmir</a>

Aurangzeb's brother also noted that he will join the 44 Rashtriya Rifles, if need be, to avenge his brother's death.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Brother of rifleman Aurangzeb says 'Hamare bhai ke badle hamein sau chahiye. Agar nahi de sakte to bata do, hum khud lenge'. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/kvocYdDhdU">pic.twitter.com/kvocYdDhdU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1007966476425465856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Aurangzeb was posted in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district and belonged to 44 Rashtriya Rifles. He was abducted by terrorists while on his way back home on the occasion of Eid. Aurangzeb's brother has also demanded the details of the driver of the vehicle which was carrying Aurangzeb while he was abducted.

Aurangzeb's brother also noted that he will join the 44 Rashtriya Rifles if need be to avenge his brother's death

Rifleman Aurangzeb's brother on Saturday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to avenge his brother's gruesome death. Armyman Aurangzeb was abducted by terrorists from Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. His bullet-ridden body was recovered from Jammu and Kashmir's Gusoo area on Thursday. "I would urge Prime Minister Modi to avenge our brother's death. We want hundred of their people to pay the price for my brother's loss of life. We have reached out to the government, if the government is not able to avenge Aurangzeb's death, we know how to do it ourselves and we will do it," he told ANI. Also read: Centre says it will not extend Ramzan ceasefire in Kashmir Aurangzeb's brother also noted that he will join the 44 Rashtriya Rifles, if need be, to avenge his brother's death. #WATCH: Brother of rifleman Aurangzeb says 'Hamare bhai ke badle hamein sau chahiye. Agar nahi de sakte to bata do, hum khud lenge'. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/kvocYdDhdU — ANI (@ANI) June 16, 2018 × Aurangzeb was posted in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district and belonged to 44 Rashtriya Rifles. He was abducted by terrorists while on his way back home on the occasion of Eid. Aurangzeb's brother has also demanded the details of the driver of the vehicle which was carrying Aurangzeb while he was abducted.

Kashmir: 'Will avenge his murder if govt cannot do so,' says Army jawan's brother 

With Eid over, the Centre has called off the Ramzan ceasefire in Kashmir.&nbsp;

The announcement was made Sunday by Home Minister Rajnath Singh.&nbsp;

"On 17th May 2018, GoI took the decision that Security Forces will not conduct offensive operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan. This decision was taken in the interests of the peace loving people of J&K, in order to provide them a conducive atmosphere to observe Ramzan," Singh said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-we-will-avenge-auranzebs-murder-if-the-government-fails-to-do-so-says-army-jawans-brother-144896">'Will avenge his murder if govt cannot do so,' says Army jawan's brother</a>&nbsp;

"While the Security Forces have displayed exemplary restraint during this period, the terrorists have continued with their attacks, on civilians and SFs, resulting in deaths and injuries," he added.&nbsp;

Therefore, he said, "the Security Forces are being directed to take all necessary actions as earlier to prevent terrorists from launching attacks and indulging in violence and killings."

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The Security Forces are being directed to take all necessary actions as earlier to prevent terrorists from launching attacks and indulging in violence and killings.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1008221493065547776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Government will continue with its endeavour to create an environment free of terror and violence in Jammu and Kashmir.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1008221497285070850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It is important that all sections of peace loving people come together to isolate the terrorists and motivate those who have been misguided to return to the path of peace.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1008221502293102592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The May 17 ceasefire had put a stop to "offensive actions"&nbsp;against terrorists in Kashmir but not to retaliatory measures, but had been seen as a slight softening of the Centre's stand on Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Modi government has so far adopted a very tough posture&nbsp;on Kashmir and a number of terrorists have been killed in the Valley in recent months.&nbsp;

But protests against security forces in the Valley have also seen a massive upsurge.&nbsp;

'The Security Forces are being directed to take all necessary actions as earlier to prevent terrorists from launching attacks and indulging in violence and killings,' Singh said

With Eid over, the Centre has called off the Ramzan ceasefire in Kashmir. The announcement was made Sunday by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. "On 17th May 2018, GoI took the decision that Security Forces will not conduct offensive operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan. This decision was taken in the interests of the peace loving people of J&K, in order to provide them a conducive atmosphere to observe Ramzan," Singh said. Also read: 'Will avenge his murder if govt cannot do so,' says Army jawan's brother "While the Security Forces have displayed exemplary restraint during this period, the terrorists have continued with their attacks, on civilians and SFs, resulting in deaths and injuries," he added. Therefore, he said, "the Security Forces are being directed to take all necessary actions as earlier to prevent terrorists from launching attacks and indulging in violence and killings." The Security Forces are being directed to take all necessary actions as earlier to prevent terrorists from launching attacks and indulging in violence and killings. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 17, 2018 × The Government will continue with its endeavour to create an environment free of terror and violence in Jammu and Kashmir. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 17, 2018 × It is important that all sections of peace loving people come together to isolate the terrorists and motivate those who have been misguided to return to the path of peace. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 17, 2018 × The May 17 ceasefire had put a stop to "offensive actions" against terrorists in Kashmir but not to retaliatory measures, but had been seen as a slight softening of the Centre's stand on Kashmir. The Modi government has so far adopted a very tough posture on Kashmir and a number of terrorists have been killed in the Valley in recent months. But protests against security forces in the Valley have also seen a massive upsurge.

Centre says it will not extend Ramzan ceasefire in Kashmir

The Aam Aadmi Party will march on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Race Course residence today, calling on him to help put a stop to the "strike" by Delhi's IAS officers.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and three of his colleagues had on Monday gone to visit the Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal to ask him to intervene in the strike. When Baijal refused to meet them, they began a sit in in his waiting room.&nbsp;

They have been there since.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain began an indefinite hunger strike. He was followed on Tuesday by Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.&nbsp;

Four chief ministers of non-BJP-ruled states — Mamata Banerjee, Pinarayi Vijayan, Chandrababu Naidu, and HD Kumaraswamy — had written to the LG on Saturday asking that they be allowed to visit Kejriwal at Raj Niwas. The chief ministers are in town for a NITI Aayog meeting due to take place today.&nbsp;

When permission was denied them, they visited Kejriwal's home on Saturday as a show of solidarity with him.&nbsp;

Vijayan blamed the Centre for the crisis, saying it was restricting the country's federal system which is a threat to the nation.&nbsp;

Mamata asked why the LG did not have six minutes to meet the Delhi chief minister.&nbsp;

Naidu said Delhi's "democratically-elected government must be allowed to function".&nbsp;

And Kumaraswamy said they had come to Kejriwal's home "to save democracy".

Kejriwal tweeted that "we all will work together to save democracy".&nbsp;

DMK leader Stalin meanwhile said the BJP was "proactively destroying the federal structure of this nation".&nbsp;

"I am concerned with the disdain shown by Lt. Gov. of Delhi towards an elected Chief Minister like @ArvindKejriwal. The BJP is proactively destroying the federal structure of this nation. I express my solidarity with the Chief Ministers who are standing up for States' rights," he tweeted.&nbsp;

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I am concerned with the disdain shown by Lt. Gov. of Delhi towards an elected Chief Minister like <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a>. The BJP is proactively destroying the federal structure of this nation. I express my solidarity with the Chief Ministers who are standing up for States' rights.
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin/status/1008043399008534528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Good morning Delhi 
 
जो प्रधान मंत्री किसी राज्य में अफ़सरों की हड़ताल करवा के वहाँ का काम काज ठप करता है, क्या ऐसे प्रधान मंत्री के हाथों में देश का लोकतंत्र सुरक्षित है?
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1008149051152523264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Thank u Omar ji for raising ur voice in favor of Delhiites. They r brazenly crushing the voice and rights of Delhi people. The situation is unprecedented. <a href="https://t.co/wzDNWrJlo6">https://t.co/wzDNWrJlo6</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1008150213335441408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Delhi's IAS officers have said they are not on strike and have even released photographs showing officials on duty. The AAP government however says the officers do not attend meeting called by Delhi's ministers, nor do they pick up phone calls from them.&nbsp;

Delhi's AAP government and the city's IAS officers have been at loggerheads ever since an alleged attack on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash in February by two AAP MLAs. The attack allegedly took place in the chief minister's home and in Kejriwal's presence.&nbsp;

AAP will march on PM Modi's residence today, calling on him to help put a stop to the 'strike' by Delhi's IAS officers. Four CMs of non-BJP-ruled states visited Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal yesterday, turning the visit into another show of opposition unity against PM Modi

The Aam Aadmi Party will march on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Race Course residence today, calling on him to help put a stop to the "strike" by Delhi's IAS officers. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and three of his colleagues had on Monday gone to visit the Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal to ask him to intervene in the strike. When Baijal refused to meet them, they began a sit in in his waiting room. They have been there since. On Tuesday, Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain began an indefinite hunger strike. He was followed on Tuesday by Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. Four chief ministers of non-BJP-ruled states — Mamata Banerjee, Pinarayi Vijayan, Chandrababu Naidu, and HD Kumaraswamy — had written to the LG on Saturday asking that they be allowed to visit Kejriwal at Raj Niwas. The chief ministers are in town for a NITI Aayog meeting due to take place today. When permission was denied them, they visited Kejriwal's home on Saturday as a show of solidarity with him. Vijayan blamed the Centre for the crisis, saying it was restricting the country's federal system which is a threat to the nation. Mamata asked why the LG did not have six minutes to meet the Delhi chief minister. Naidu said Delhi's "democratically-elected government must be allowed to function". And Kumaraswamy said they had come to Kejriwal's home "to save democracy". Kejriwal tweeted that "we all will work together to save democracy". DMK leader Stalin meanwhile said the BJP was "proactively destroying the federal structure of this nation". "I am concerned with the disdain shown by Lt. Gov. of Delhi towards an elected Chief Minister like @ArvindKejriwal. The BJP is proactively destroying the federal structure of this nation. I express my solidarity with the Chief Ministers who are standing up for States' rights," he tweeted. I am concerned with the disdain shown by Lt. Gov. of Delhi towards an elected Chief Minister like @ArvindKejriwal. The BJP is proactively destroying the federal structure of this nation. I express my solidarity with the Chief Ministers who are standing up for States' rights. — M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) June 16, 2018 × Good morning Delhi जो प्रधान मंत्री किसी राज्य में अफ़सरों की हड़ताल करवा के वहाँ का काम काज ठप करता है, क्या ऐसे प्रधान मंत्री के हाथों में देश का लोकतंत्र सुरक्षित है? — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 17, 2018 × Thank u Omar ji for raising ur voice in favor of Delhiites. They r brazenly crushing the voice and rights of Delhi people. The situation is unprecedented. https://t.co/wzDNWrJlo6 — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 17, 2018 × Delhi's IAS officers have said they are not on strike and have even released photographs showing officials on duty. The AAP government however says the officers do not attend meeting called by Delhi's ministers, nor do they pick up phone calls from them. Delhi's AAP government and the city's IAS officers have been at loggerheads ever since an alleged attack on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash in February by two AAP MLAs. The attack allegedly took place in the chief minister's home and in Kejriwal's presence.

AAP-LG standoff: Stalin says BJP 'proactively destroying' country's federal structure

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-10-dead-and-30-injured-in-a-suicide-blast-in-afghanistan-145007">At least 10 dead and 30 injured in a suicide blast in Afghanistan</a>

A day after 36 people were killed in car blast, a suicide bomber detonated explosives close to governor's compound leaving 10 people dead in Nangarhar, Afghanistan.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-issue-one-of-modi-governments-biggest-failures-congress-145014">Kashmir issue one of Modi government's biggest failures: Congress</a>

The Congress on Sunday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Kashmir issue, calling it one of his government's biggest "failures", and wondered what India gained out of his foreign trips when he failed to stall the "pathetic" UN report on the alleged human rights violation there.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/hundreds-of-aap-supporters-join-protest-march-towards-pm-modi-s-residence-145018">Hundreds of AAP supporters join protest march towards PM Modi's residence</a>

Hundreds of Aam Aadmi Party supporters joined a protest march against the Centre on Sunday demanding an end to the Delhi IAS officers' undeclared strike.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/historic-deal-signed-between-greece-macedonia-to-change-ex-yugoslav-republics-name-144984">Historic deal signed between Greece, Macedonia to change ex-Yugoslav republic's name</a>

Greece and Macedonia defied protests and set aside decades of dispute on Sunday as they agreed on a new name for the Balkan state, potentially paving the way for Skopje's admission to the EU and NATO.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/new-jersey-two-open-fire-in-art-festival-1-dead-20-injured-145022">New Jersey: Two open fire in art festival 1 dead, 20 injured</a>

Two people opened fire in an annual all-night Art festival in Trenton, New Jersey on Sunday.

&nbsp;

At least 10 dead and 30 injured in a suicide blast in Afghanistan A day after 36 people were killed in car blast, a suicide bomber detonated explosives close to governor's compound leaving 10 people dead in Nangarhar, Afghanistan. Kashmir issue one of Modi government's biggest failures: Congress The Congress on Sunday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Kashmir issue, calling it one of his government's biggest "failures", and wondered what India gained out of his foreign trips when he failed to stall the "pathetic" UN report on the alleged human rights violation there. Hundreds of AAP supporters join protest march towards PM Modi's residence Hundreds of Aam Aadmi Party supporters joined a protest march against the Centre on Sunday demanding an end to the Delhi IAS officers' undeclared strike. Historic deal signed between Greece, Macedonia to change ex-Yugoslav republic's name Greece and Macedonia defied protests and set aside decades of dispute on Sunday as they agreed on a new name for the Balkan state, potentially paving the way for Skopje's admission to the EU and NATO. New Jersey: Two open fire in art festival 1 dead, 20 injured Two people opened fire in an annual all-night Art festival in Trenton, New Jersey on Sunday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar put forth the demand for granting Special Status to his state.

Addressing the fourth meeting of the NITI Aayog`s governing council Kumar suggested replacing cooking food under the mid-day scheme with a direct benefit transfer.

Regarding the special status issue, Nitish claimed that this was necessary, as Bihar lagged behind on several key areas of human development like per capita income, education, health, electricity, institutional finance and others.

Nitish also labelled the increase in a states` share in tax revenue from 32 to 42 per cent as being "merely a compositional shift."

"The increase in tax transfers was negated to a large extent by the reduction in allocations by the centre for the central plan schemes and the centrally sponsored schemes to the States.

Furthermore, the state-wise distribution pattern also led to a decrease in Bihar`s share from 10.917 per cent (XIII FC) and to 9.665 percent (XV FC)," he said in his address.

He also stated that Rs 2600 crore as Backward Region Grant Fund were due to be released to his state.

Earlier, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu`s Telugu Desam Party withdrew support from the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance over the latter`s failure to grant special status to his state.&nbsp

Addressing the fourth meeting of the NITI Aayog`s governing council; Kumar suggested replacing cooking food under the mid-day scheme with a direct benefit transfer.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar put forth the demand for granting Special Status to his state. Addressing the fourth meeting of the NITI Aayog`s governing council Kumar suggested replacing cooking food under the mid-day scheme with a direct benefit transfer. Regarding the special status issue, Nitish claimed that this was necessary, as Bihar lagged behind on several key areas of human development like per capita income, education, health, electricity, institutional finance and others. Nitish also labelled the increase in a states` share in tax revenue from 32 to 42 per cent as being "merely a compositional shift." "The increase in tax transfers was negated to a large extent by the reduction in allocations by the centre for the central plan schemes and the centrally sponsored schemes to the States. Furthermore, the state-wise distribution pattern also led to a decrease in Bihar`s share from 10.917 per cent (XIII FC) and to 9.665 percent (XV FC)," he said in his address. He also stated that Rs 2600 crore as Backward Region Grant Fund were due to be released to his state. Earlier, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu`s Telugu Desam Party withdrew support from the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance over the latter`s failure to grant special status to his state.

Nitish bats for special status for Bihar

After Indian cricket team skipper on Saturday posted a video of his wife Anushka Sharma scolding a man for throwing garbage on the road, the man has now taken to Twitter to shun the couple down for the&nbsp;"garbage that came from their mouth."

The guy, who goes by the handle of Arhhansingh on Instagram, put up a screenshot from the video and went on a rant against the power couple.

The post read:&nbsp;"While I'm apologetic for my carelessness, Mrs Anushka Sharma Kohli, a little etiquette and politeness in your dialogue wouldn't have made you a lesser star."

He further called out Kohli for making a video of the incident a putting it on Instagram and said: "The garbage that mistakenly went out of the window of my 'luxury car' was way less than the garbage that came out from your mouth, from your 'luxury car's' window, or the trashy mind of Virat Kohli to shoot and post this online... for whatever gains. Now that's some serious trash."

On Saturday, Anushka was seen yelling after she spotted a commuter throwing plastic on the road. She stopped the car and said “Why are you throwing garbage on the road?&nbsp;Please give careful you cannot go on throwing plastic on the road. Please use dustbin next time.”

Virat Kohli, who also happened to be present in the car, filmed the entire incident and shared it on social media. He posted the video with a caption, “Saw these people throwing garbage on the road & pulled them up rightfully. Travelling in a luxury car and brains gone for a toss. These people will keep our country clean? Yeah right! If you see something wrong happening like this, do the same & spread awareness.” &nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BkFZHATAQkA/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">Saw these people throwing garbage on the road and pulled them up rightfully. Travelling in a luxury car and brains gone for a toss. These people will keep our country clean? Yeah right!!! If you see something wrong happening like this, do the same and spread awareness. @anushkasharma</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/virat.kohli/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Virat Kohli</a> (@virat.kohli) on <time datetime="2018-06-16T11:43:16+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">Jun 16, 2018 at 4:43am PDT</time>
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The guy whom Kohli/Anushka called out today for careless littering responds in instagram. <a href="https://t.co/BkJeSiZBch">pic.twitter.com/BkJeSiZBch</a>
— Od (@odshek) <a href="https://twitter.com/odshek/status/1008046438478237698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

'The garbage that mistakenly went out of the window of my 'luxury car' was way less than the garbage that came out from your mouth, from your 'luxury car's' window, or the trashy mind of Virat Kohli to shoot and post this online... for whatever gains. Now that's some serious trash,' he wrote on Instagram

After Indian cricket team skipper on Saturday posted a video of his wife Anushka Sharma scolding a man for throwing garbage on the road, the man has now taken to Twitter to shun the couple down for the "garbage that came from their mouth." The guy, who goes by the handle of Arhhansingh on Instagram, put up a screenshot from the video and went on a rant against the power couple. The post read: "While I'm apologetic for my carelessness, Mrs Anushka Sharma Kohli, a little etiquette and politeness in your dialogue wouldn't have made you a lesser star." He further called out Kohli for making a video of the incident a putting it on Instagram and said: "The garbage that mistakenly went out of the window of my 'luxury car' was way less than the garbage that came out from your mouth, from your 'luxury car's' window, or the trashy mind of Virat Kohli to shoot and post this online... for whatever gains. Now that's some serious trash." On Saturday, Anushka was seen yelling after she spotted a commuter throwing plastic on the road. She stopped the car and said “Why are you throwing garbage on the road? Please give careful you cannot go on throwing plastic on the road. Please use dustbin next time.” Virat Kohli, who also happened to be present in the car, filmed the entire incident and shared it on social media. He posted the video with a caption, “Saw these people throwing garbage on the road & pulled them up rightfully. Travelling in a luxury car and brains gone for a toss. These people will keep our country clean? Yeah right! If you see something wrong happening like this, do the same & spread awareness.” Saw these people throwing garbage on the road and pulled them up rightfully. Travelling in a luxury car and brains gone for a toss. These people will keep our country clean? Yeah right!!! If you see something wrong happening like this, do the same and spread awareness. @anushkasharma A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) on Jun 16, 2018 at 4:43am PDT × The guy whom Kohli/Anushka called out today for careless littering responds in instagram. pic.twitter.com/BkJeSiZBch — Od (@odshek) June 16, 2018 ×

After they pull him up for littering, man calls Virat Kohli & Anushka Sharma 'trashy'

Bullets with steel core- a new addition into the ammunition of terror groups especially Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed- have triggered alarms within the security establishment as it has the capability to pierce a static bullet proof bunker used during counter-terrorism operations, officials said.

The first such incident in which this was noticed, had occurred on new year eve, when Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists had carried out a suicide attack on CRPF camp at Lethpora in South Kashmir when one of the five personnel of para-military force was killed by a bullet despite having a static bullet-proof shield provided by the Army, officials said. Five CRPF personnel were killed in the attack.

A thorough enquiry showed that the bullet fired by the terrorist from the assault AK rifle was of steel core which has the capability of piercing through the static bunkers used by security personnel during encounters with terrorists.

The findings showed that the bullet, which is mainly termed as Armour Piercing (AP), is built of hardened steel or tungsten carbide.

"Precautionary measures have already been taken after the findings," said a senior official engaged in counter-terrorism in the Kashmir Valley.

Generally, the AK bullets used in the armoury have a lead core covered with mild steel which cannot penetrate a bullet proof shield but after the December 31, 2017 encounter and subsequent findings, the rules of the proxy-war changed, the officials said.

A detailed analysis of the previous suicide attacks was carried out during which ballistic analysis of the terror attack on district police lines of Pulwama in South Kashmir in last August showed that 'steel core' bullets had been used in that encounter by the terrorists on security personnel. Eight security personnel had lost their lives in the terror strike.

The ammunition, according to the officials, is being modified from across the border with the help of Chinese technology of encasing the bullet with hard steel core.

There have been instances when these bullets, though very small in numbers, have been recovered from hideouts mainly belonging to the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group.

"Every ammunition round seized during recovery is scrutinized minutely to look for such bullets. In the meantime, direct exposure of security personnel using static bulletproof shield was being avoided," another official said.

Bullets with steel core- a new addition into the ammunition of terror groups especially Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed- have triggered alarms within the security establishment as it has the capability to pierce a static bullet proof bunker used during counter-terrorism operations, officials said

Bullets with steel core- a new addition into the ammunition of terror groups especially Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed- have triggered alarms within the security establishment as it has the capability to pierce a static bullet proof bunker used during counter-terrorism operations, officials said. The first such incident in which this was noticed, had occurred on new year eve, when Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists had carried out a suicide attack on CRPF camp at Lethpora in South Kashmir when one of the five personnel of para-military force was killed by a bullet despite having a static bullet-proof shield provided by the Army, officials said. Five CRPF personnel were killed in the attack. A thorough enquiry showed that the bullet fired by the terrorist from the assault AK rifle was of steel core which has the capability of piercing through the static bunkers used by security personnel during encounters with terrorists. The findings showed that the bullet, which is mainly termed as Armour Piercing (AP), is built of hardened steel or tungsten carbide. "Precautionary measures have already been taken after the findings," said a senior official engaged in counter-terrorism in the Kashmir Valley. Generally, the AK bullets used in the armoury have a lead core covered with mild steel which cannot penetrate a bullet proof shield but after the December 31, 2017 encounter and subsequent findings, the rules of the proxy-war changed, the officials said. A detailed analysis of the previous suicide attacks was carried out during which ballistic analysis of the terror attack on district police lines of Pulwama in South Kashmir in last August showed that 'steel core' bullets had been used in that encounter by the terrorists on security personnel. Eight security personnel had lost their lives in the terror strike. The ammunition, according to the officials, is being modified from across the border with the help of Chinese technology of encasing the bullet with hard steel core. There have been instances when these bullets, though very small in numbers, have been recovered from hideouts mainly belonging to the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group. "Every ammunition round seized during recovery is scrutinized minutely to look for such bullets. In the meantime, direct exposure of security personnel using static bulletproof shield was being avoided," another official said.

AK bullets with 'hard steel' find way into terror arsenal in Jammu and Kashmir

Bollywood playback singer Shaan has released a special song to mark this year's Father's Day. Shaan, along with his 13-year-old son Shubh, released the song 'Hukus Bukus' and dedicated it to fathers all across.

The song is an improvisation of an old Kashmiri tune. It will be featured in the upcoming Yoodlee Films productions, Hamid.

Shaan shared his experience of composing the song and described it "wonderful" adding that working with his son for the composition made the song even more special for him.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/R3q7ipSkzoY" width="560"></iframe>

Father's Day is celebrated every year in India on the third Sunday in the month of June. Google commemorated the day by dedicating its Doodle. The colourful, playful Doodle resembles a family of dinosaurs suggestive of the father-child bond and the significance of a father's nurturing, protective role for the family.

Shaan shared his experience of composing the song and described it "wonderful" adding that working with his son for the composition made the song even more special

Bollywood playback singer Shaan has released a special song to mark this year's Father's Day. Shaan, along with his 13-year-old son Shubh, released the song 'Hukus Bukus' and dedicated it to fathers all across. The song is an improvisation of an old Kashmiri tune. It will be featured in the upcoming Yoodlee Films productions, Hamid. Shaan shared his experience of composing the song and described it "wonderful" adding that working with his son for the composition made the song even more special for him. Father's Day is celebrated every year in India on the third Sunday in the month of June. Google commemorated the day by dedicating its Doodle. The colourful, playful Doodle resembles a family of dinosaurs suggestive of the father-child bond and the significance of a father's nurturing, protective role for the family.

Bollywood singer Shaan releases special Father's Day song with son

Amid an intensifying tussle between the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, the Congress on Sunday accused the Delhi chief minister of making the people of the national capital suffer due to his "inflated ego".

Delhi Congress chief Ajay Maken said Kejriwal should put an end to the crisis by expressing "regrets" to Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash, who was allegedly manhandled by AAP legislators at the chief minister's residence during a late night meeting on February 19.

"Still remember the unabashed 'apology' radio ads by Kejriwal after his 49 days government in 2014. Now-apology from Majithia,Jaitley,Sibbal...Why can't he just offer regrets to the CS and govern Delhi the way he is Constitutionally supposed to? Why should Delhi suffer his inflated ego (sic)?" Maken tweeted.

Former Delhi chief minister and Congress leader Sheila Dikshit said nobody could help Kejriwal if he did not understand the constitutional provisions regarding Delhi.

"If you do not understand the Constitution, what can anyone do? That is the bottom line. Delhi cannot become Kerala or Goa or Puducherry, which have different powers as per the Constitution," she told PTI.

Dikshit said there was no harm in fighting for more power, but added that it could only be done through Parliament.

"If a chief minister does not understand the basics about his state, then I have nothing to say. Everybody has the right to ask for more power, but it has to be by changing the Constitution through Parliament. He can have the powers he is seeking only through Parliament," she added.

Dikshit dismissed the AAP allegation that the Congress was siding with the BJP, while several political parties were standing by Kejriwal in the ongoing tussle.

"What they are saying is totally irrelevant. We have got our own identity," she said.

Kejriwal, along with some of his cabinet colleagues, is sitting on an indefinite dharna at LG Anil Baijal's office since Monday last, demanding the latter to direct the IAS officers to call off their "strike" and clear his government's doorstep ration delivery scheme.

The IAS officers of the Delhi government are boycotting their meetings with the AAP ministers in protest against an alleged attack on the chief secretary by the ruling party legislators.

Delhi Congress chief spokesperson Sharmistha Mukherjee accused Kejriwal of trying to convert the venue of his dharna at the Raj Bhavan into a place for "political hobnobbing".

"Had the venue been different, perhaps there wud be no need for 'permission'. Rajbhavan is not the place for political hobnobbing. BJP does it all the time & @ArvindKejriwal tried to do it in a convoluted manner. One wrong doesn't make another wrong right (sic)," she tweeted.

Yesterday, the chief ministers of four states ruled by non-BJP parties, including Mamata Banerjee of West Bengal, had tried to meet Kejriwal but were denied permission.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Delhi Congress chief Ajay Maken said Kejriwal should put an end to the crisis by expressing "regrets" to Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash, who was allegedly manhandled by AAP legislators at the chief minister's residence during a late night meeting on February 19

Amid an intensifying tussle between the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal, the Congress on Sunday accused the Delhi chief minister of making the people of the national capital suffer due to his "inflated ego". Delhi Congress chief Ajay Maken said Kejriwal should put an end to the crisis by expressing "regrets" to Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash, who was allegedly manhandled by AAP legislators at the chief minister's residence during a late night meeting on February 19. "Still remember the unabashed 'apology' radio ads by Kejriwal after his 49 days government in 2014. Now-apology from Majithia,Jaitley,Sibbal...Why can't he just offer regrets to the CS and govern Delhi the way he is Constitutionally supposed to? Why should Delhi suffer his inflated ego (sic)?" Maken tweeted. Former Delhi chief minister and Congress leader Sheila Dikshit said nobody could help Kejriwal if he did not understand the constitutional provisions regarding Delhi. "If you do not understand the Constitution, what can anyone do? That is the bottom line. Delhi cannot become Kerala or Goa or Puducherry, which have different powers as per the Constitution," she told PTI. Dikshit said there was no harm in fighting for more power, but added that it could only be done through Parliament. "If a chief minister does not understand the basics about his state, then I have nothing to say. Everybody has the right to ask for more power, but it has to be by changing the Constitution through Parliament. He can have the powers he is seeking only through Parliament," she added. Dikshit dismissed the AAP allegation that the Congress was siding with the BJP, while several political parties were standing by Kejriwal in the ongoing tussle. "What they are saying is totally irrelevant. We have got our own identity," she said. Kejriwal, along with some of his cabinet colleagues, is sitting on an indefinite dharna at LG Anil Baijal's office since Monday last, demanding the latter to direct the IAS officers to call off their "strike" and clear his government's doorstep ration delivery scheme. The IAS officers of the Delhi government are boycotting their meetings with the AAP ministers in protest against an alleged attack on the chief secretary by the ruling party legislators. Delhi Congress chief spokesperson Sharmistha Mukherjee accused Kejriwal of trying to convert the venue of his dharna at the Raj Bhavan into a place for "political hobnobbing". "Had the venue been different, perhaps there wud be no need for 'permission'. Rajbhavan is not the place for political hobnobbing. BJP does it all the time & @ArvindKejriwal tried to do it in a convoluted manner. One wrong doesn't make another wrong right (sic)," she tweeted. Yesterday, the chief ministers of four states ruled by non-BJP parties, including Mamata Banerjee of West Bengal, had tried to meet Kejriwal but were denied permission.

Kejriwal making Delhi people suffer due to his inflated ego: Congress

After the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/frightened-and-victimised-ias-association-claims-they-are-not-on-strike-145004">IAS Association held a press conference in Delhi</a> clarifying that they&nbsp;were not on strike, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has tweeted a letter assuring security to them.

The assurance has come after the officers claimed that they were not on strike and were just avoiding meetings in which there was a threat to their safety and self-respect.

In his letter to the IAS officers, the Delhi CM has written,

"I am told that IAS Officers Association has 
expressed concerns about their safety in 
press conference today.

I wish to assure them that I will ensure their 
safety and security with all powers and 
resources available at my command. It is 
my duty. I have given similar assurances 
earlier also to many officers who have been 
meeting me privately. I reiterate it today.

The officers are a part of my family. I would 
urge them to stop their boycott of elected 
govt, return to work now and start 
attending all meetings of Ministers, 
respond to their calls and messages and 
join them for field inspections. They shud 
work without fear or pressure. They shud 
not come under any pressure from any 
sources, whether state govt or central govt or any political party".

The IAS Association referred to the alleged attack on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash in February and said they had approached all quarters, including the cabinet secretary, the home minister, the Lieutenant Governor and the Department of Personnel and Training to request for help in ensuring safety.

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My appeal to my officers of Delhi govt .... <a href="https://t.co/YQ02WgaAtd">pic.twitter.com/YQ02WgaAtd</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1008354074633428992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The assurance has come after the officers in the conference claimed that they were not on strike and were just avoiding meetings in which there was a threat to their safety and self-respect

After the IAS Association held a press conference in Delhi clarifying that they were not on strike, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has tweeted a letter assuring security to them. The assurance has come after the officers claimed that they were not on strike and were just avoiding meetings in which there was a threat to their safety and self-respect. In his letter to the IAS officers, the Delhi CM has written, "I am told that IAS Officers Association has expressed concerns about their safety in press conference today. I wish to assure them that I will ensure their safety and security with all powers and resources available at my command. It is my duty. I have given similar assurances earlier also to many officers who have been meeting me privately. I reiterate it today. The officers are a part of my family. I would urge them to stop their boycott of elected govt, return to work now and start attending all meetings of Ministers, respond to their calls and messages and join them for field inspections. They shud work without fear or pressure. They shud not come under any pressure from any sources, whether state govt or central govt or any political party". The IAS Association referred to the alleged attack on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash in February and said they had approached all quarters, including the cabinet secretary, the home minister, the Lieutenant Governor and the Department of Personnel and Training to request for help in ensuring safety. My appeal to my officers of Delhi govt .... pic.twitter.com/YQ02WgaAtd — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 17, 2018 ×

Arvind Kejriwal assures safety to IAS officers after their 'security concern'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs a NITI Aayog meeting today at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. This is the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog.

The meeting is likely to discuss important issues such as measures taken to double farmers'&nbsp;income, progress of flagship schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, National Nutrition Mission, and Mission Indradhanush, development of aspirational districts and celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

The Council will also review the work done during the previous year and deliberate upon the future developmental priorities.

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Delhi: Chaired by PM Modi & consisting of Chief Ministers, Lt. Governors, Union Ministers and Special Invitees, the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NITIAayog?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NITIAayog</a> begins <a href="https://t.co/Mlx1yygtBM">pic.twitter.com/Mlx1yygtBM</a>
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The meeting is expected to go throughout the day with Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from the States, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories and senior officials from the Government of India in attendance.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

The Council will also review the work done during the previous year and deliberate upon the future developmental priorities

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs a NITI Aayog meeting today at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. This is the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog. The meeting is likely to discuss important issues such as measures taken to double farmers' income, progress of flagship schemes such as Ayushman Bharat, National Nutrition Mission, and Mission Indradhanush, development of aspirational districts and celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The Council will also review the work done during the previous year and deliberate upon the future developmental priorities. Delhi: Chaired by PM Modi & consisting of Chief Ministers, Lt. Governors, Union Ministers and Special Invitees, the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of #NITIAayog begins pic.twitter.com/Mlx1yygtBM — ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2018 × The meeting is expected to go throughout the day with Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from the States, Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories and senior officials from the Government of India in attendance. (With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi chairs NITI Aayog meeting

Indians with advanced degrees may have to wait for over 150 years for a green card which authorises them to live and work in the US permanently, according to projections by a think-tank.

The new calculation on the Green card wait period by Cato Institute, a Washington-based think-tank, comes after the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently released number of applicants for such cards.

The calculation is based on the number of green card issuances in 2017.&nbsp;

As of April 20, 2018, there were 632,219 Indian immigrants and their spouses and minor children waiting for green cards also known as legal permanent residency cards.

The shortest wait is for the highest skilled category for EB-1 immigrants with "extraordinary ability". EB stands for employment based.&nbsp;

The extraordinary immigrants from India will have to wait "only" six years, Cato Institute said in its latest report.&nbsp;

According to the USCIS, there are 34,824 Indian applicants under EB-1 category. Along with their 48,754 spouse and children, 83,578 Indians are in line for a green card under EB-1 category.

EB-3 immigrants, those with bachelor's degrees, will have to wait about 17 years, Cato Institute said. As of April 20, there were 54,892 Indians in this category. Clubbed with 60,381 spouses and children, the total number of Indians waiting for green card in EB-3 category are 1,15,273.&nbsp;

However, the biggest backlog is for EB-2 workers, who have advanced degrees.&nbsp;

"At current rates of visa issuances, they will have to wait 151 years for a green card. Obviously, unless the law changes, they will have died or left by that point," Cato institute said.

According to the USCIS, there were 2,16,684 primary Indian applicants under EB-2 category and 2,16,684 spouses and children, thus making a total of 4,33,368.

This is primarily because of the existing laws which impose per-country-limit of seven per cent.&nbsp;

In all 306,400 primary Indian applicants are waiting for their green cards. Clubbed with their spouses and children numbering 325,819 as many as 632,219 Indians in all are waiting for their green cards.

In 2017 only 22,602 Indians have issued the legal permanent residency cards. Of these 13,082 were in the EB-1 category, 2,879 in EB-2 category and 6,641 in Eb-3 category, according to the latest USCIS figures.

Cato Institute said the green card allocation is not based on the backlog, so 69 per cent of the backlog is in the EB-2 category, but it received only 13 per cent of the green cards issued in 2017. There are two reasons for this, it explained.

First, each category is guaranteed a minimum of 40,040 green cards, so the allocation between categories does not adjust when one category has higher demand than the others.

Second, EB-2 is currently subject to the per-country limits, that prevent Indian immigrants from receiving more than seven per cent of the green cards issued in the category, the report said.

Cato Institute notes that for employment-based green cards, the per-country limit only applies in full force when the category is filled up, meaning that if some green cards would go to waste, Indian immigrants can receive above the per-country limit of 7 per cent. For this reason, Indian immigrants received nearly 18 per cent of the total green cards issued in the EB-3 category in 2017.

Referring to the inconsistency in the application of the per-country limit, the report said if the per-country limits end up not applying fully for EB-2 during some future years, they could receive their green cards before the next century.

For example, if they received the same number of green cards as EB-3 workers did in 2017, they would have to wait "only" for 65 years, rather than 151 years as projected based on the number of issuances in 2017.&nbsp;

On the other hand, if the per-country limits end up applying fully for EB-3 workers after 2018, they could end up having to wait more than 40 years, rather than 17 years, the report said.

The projection was made by a Washington-based think tank. Their calculation was based on the number of green cards issued in 2017

Indians with advanced degrees may have to wait for over 150 years for a green card which authorises them to live and work in the US permanently, according to projections by a think-tank. The new calculation on the Green card wait period by Cato Institute, a Washington-based think-tank, comes after the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently released number of applicants for such cards. The calculation is based on the number of green card issuances in 2017. As of April 20, 2018, there were 632,219 Indian immigrants and their spouses and minor children waiting for green cards also known as legal permanent residency cards. The shortest wait is for the highest skilled category for EB-1 immigrants with "extraordinary ability". EB stands for employment based. The extraordinary immigrants from India will have to wait "only" six years, Cato Institute said in its latest report. According to the USCIS, there are 34,824 Indian applicants under EB-1 category. Along with their 48,754 spouse and children, 83,578 Indians are in line for a green card under EB-1 category. EB-3 immigrants, those with bachelor's degrees, will have to wait about 17 years, Cato Institute said. As of April 20, there were 54,892 Indians in this category. Clubbed with 60,381 spouses and children, the total number of Indians waiting for green card in EB-3 category are 1,15,273. However, the biggest backlog is for EB-2 workers, who have advanced degrees. "At current rates of visa issuances, they will have to wait 151 years for a green card. Obviously, unless the law changes, they will have died or left by that point," Cato institute said. According to the USCIS, there were 2,16,684 primary Indian applicants under EB-2 category and 2,16,684 spouses and children, thus making a total of 4,33,368. This is primarily because of the existing laws which impose per-country-limit of seven per cent. In all 306,400 primary Indian applicants are waiting for their green cards. Clubbed with their spouses and children numbering 325,819 as many as 632,219 Indians in all are waiting for their green cards. In 2017 only 22,602 Indians have issued the legal permanent residency cards. Of these 13,082 were in the EB-1 category, 2,879 in EB-2 category and 6,641 in Eb-3 category, according to the latest USCIS figures. Cato Institute said the green card allocation is not based on the backlog, so 69 per cent of the backlog is in the EB-2 category, but it received only 13 per cent of the green cards issued in 2017. There are two reasons for this, it explained. First, each category is guaranteed a minimum of 40,040 green cards, so the allocation between categories does not adjust when one category has higher demand than the others. Second, EB-2 is currently subject to the per-country limits, that prevent Indian immigrants from receiving more than seven per cent of the green cards issued in the category, the report said. Cato Institute notes that for employment-based green cards, the per-country limit only applies in full force when the category is filled up, meaning that if some green cards would go to waste, Indian immigrants can receive above the per-country limit of 7 per cent. For this reason, Indian immigrants received nearly 18 per cent of the total green cards issued in the EB-3 category in 2017. Referring to the inconsistency in the application of the per-country limit, the report said if the per-country limits end up not applying fully for EB-2 during some future years, they could receive their green cards before the next century. For example, if they received the same number of green cards as EB-3 workers did in 2017, they would have to wait "only" for 65 years, rather than 151 years as projected based on the number of issuances in 2017. On the other hand, if the per-country limits end up applying fully for EB-3 workers after 2018, they could end up having to wait more than 40 years, rather than 17 years, the report said.

Indians with advanced degrees may have to wait over 150 years for US green card: Report

Yoga guru Ramdev conducted a special session with Tihar jail prisoners, ahead of the International Yoga Day, reported news agency PTI.

As many as 500 prisoners gathered on&nbsp;a ground inside the jail complex to practice various asanas along with Ramdev, while the remaining inmates joined the session on a live telecast.

The yoga session is also being live streamed for the prisoners in Rohini and Mandoli jail complexes, the report added.

Earlier today, Ramdev took to his Twitter handle to announce the Yoga sessions with the prisoners.

"Even within the boundaries of the jail, they can be free from the limitations of body and mind through Yog," he tweeted.

On Saturday, Ramdev, along with author Ira Tridevi and playback singer Babul Supriyo, conducted a Yoga session at Humayun's Tomb in the national capital.

The Yoga guru also took part in a Yoga camp in Scotland's capital Glasgow earlier this month.

On a related note, International Yoga Day will be celebrated on June 21.

As many as 500 prisoners gathered on a ground inside the jail complex to practice various asanas along with Ramdev, while the remaining inmates joined the session on a live telecast.

Yoga guru Ramdev conducted a special session with Tihar jail prisoners, ahead of the International Yoga Day, reported news agency PTI. As many as 500 prisoners gathered on a ground inside the jail complex to practice various asanas along with Ramdev, while the remaining inmates joined the session on a live telecast. The yoga session is also being live streamed for the prisoners in Rohini and Mandoli jail complexes, the report added. Earlier today, Ramdev took to his Twitter handle to announce the Yoga sessions with the prisoners. "Even within the boundaries of the jail, they can be free from the limitations of body and mind through Yog," he tweeted. On Saturday, Ramdev, along with author Ira Tridevi and playback singer Babul Supriyo, conducted a Yoga session at Humayun's Tomb in the national capital. The Yoga guru also took part in a Yoga camp in Scotland's capital Glasgow earlier this month. On a related note, International Yoga Day will be celebrated on June 21.

Yoga guru Ramdev conducts special yoga session for Tihar jail inmates

The number of deaths in the landslide at Kerala's Kattipara village in Kozhikode district has risen to 12. According to reports, two more people are yet to be traced, search and rescue operations are still on.

Landslides have also been reported in Karinchola, Pulluranpara and Chamal areas of the district. Thousands of people have been moved to relief camps.

The onset of monsoons in Kerala has caused much damage, loss of life and property in the past week.

The toll in rain-related incidents in Kerala, since the onset of the monsoon, rose to 45 on Saturday with the recovery of the body of a baby girl and a teenaged boy being washed away in flash floods in the district, officials said.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan directed authorities to disburse compensation to those who suffered losses and whose property was damaged.

The government of Kerala, on Friday, had issued a red alert in northern districts -- Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Palakkad, Kasargod and Malappuram- in view of heavy rain forecast till June 18.

Several roads, including National Highways, crisscrossing Kozhikode-Wayanad areas, are still under a sheet of water, disrupting vehicular movement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The government of Kerala, on Friday, had issued a red alert in northern districts-Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Palakkad, Kasargod and Malappuram- in view of heavy rain forecast

The number of deaths in the landslide at Kerala's Kattipara village in Kozhikode district has risen to 12. According to reports, two more people are yet to be traced, search and rescue operations are still on. Landslides have also been reported in Karinchola, Pulluranpara and Chamal areas of the district. Thousands of people have been moved to relief camps. The onset of monsoons in Kerala has caused much damage, loss of life and property in the past week. The toll in rain-related incidents in Kerala, since the onset of the monsoon, rose to 45 on Saturday with the recovery of the body of a baby girl and a teenaged boy being washed away in flash floods in the district, officials said. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan directed authorities to disburse compensation to those who suffered losses and whose property was damaged. The government of Kerala, on Friday, had issued a red alert in northern districts -- Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Palakkad, Kasargod and Malappuram- in view of heavy rain forecast till June 18. Several roads, including National Highways, crisscrossing Kozhikode-Wayanad areas, are still under a sheet of water, disrupting vehicular movement. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerala: Kozhikode landslide death toll mounts to 12

The Walmart-Flipkart deal will be cancerous for the Indian retail industry, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has said in a letter to Finance Minister Piyush Goel.

CAIT said today that its letter has also drawn the attention of Goel towards the inaction of the Commerce Ministry for not taking any steps so far in connection with Walmart Flipkart deal, despite sending communication to the trade minister.

"The Walmart Flipkart deal will prove to be cancerous to retail trade and economy of the country," CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said.

"Although more than one month has passed but we are unable to understand what is preventing the government to take any action on this deal which is offending the FDI policy and circumventing the law. It's an open case for backdoor entry of Walmart to retail trade of India," CAIT reportedly said according to news agency PTI.

The trade body also apprehended that if no action is taken, other foreign e-Commerce majors like Amazon and Alibaba will also engage companies like Flipkart and the result would be consolidation of retail trade in very few hands which will be detrimental to offline retailers.

The e-Commerce spectrum will also be vitiated to a great extent, it added.

CAIT said it has "urged the finance minister to understand the seriousness and gravity of the situation and intervene in the issue since the traders have lost all hopes of getting this deal heard by commerce ministry".

It added that a policy of e-Commerce must be framed immediately and a regulatory authority must be constituted for regulating and monitoring the e-Commerce market of the country.

Ever since the US retailer Walmart Inc has announced acquisition of 77 per cent stake in Flipkart in its biggest takeover till date, CAIT has been opposing the deal.

The deal values the 11-year old Indian e-Commerce firm at USD 20.8 billion.

In May, CAIT said Walmart's USD 16 billion acquisition of home-grown retailer Flipkart will affect India's retail sector "very badly" and demanded scanning and scrutinising the deal from "different angles" by the government.

 
(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp

The trade body also apprehended that if no action is taken, other foreign e-Commerce majors like Amazon and Alibaba will also engage companies like Flipkart and the result would be consolidation of retail trade in very few hands which will be detrimental to offline retailers.

The Walmart-Flipkart deal will be cancerous for the Indian retail industry, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has said in a letter to Finance Minister Piyush Goel. CAIT said today that its letter has also drawn the attention of Goel towards the inaction of the Commerce Ministry for not taking any steps so far in connection with Walmart Flipkart deal, despite sending communication to the trade minister. "The Walmart Flipkart deal will prove to be cancerous to retail trade and economy of the country," CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said. "Although more than one month has passed but we are unable to understand what is preventing the government to take any action on this deal which is offending the FDI policy and circumventing the law. It's an open case for backdoor entry of Walmart to retail trade of India," CAIT reportedly said according to news agency PTI. The trade body also apprehended that if no action is taken, other foreign e-Commerce majors like Amazon and Alibaba will also engage companies like Flipkart and the result would be consolidation of retail trade in very few hands which will be detrimental to offline retailers. The e-Commerce spectrum will also be vitiated to a great extent, it added. CAIT said it has "urged the finance minister to understand the seriousness and gravity of the situation and intervene in the issue since the traders have lost all hopes of getting this deal heard by commerce ministry". It added that a policy of e-Commerce must be framed immediately and a regulatory authority must be constituted for regulating and monitoring the e-Commerce market of the country. Ever since the US retailer Walmart Inc has announced acquisition of 77 per cent stake in Flipkart in its biggest takeover till date, CAIT has been opposing the deal. The deal values the 11-year old Indian e-Commerce firm at USD 20.8 billion. In May, CAIT said Walmart's USD 16 billion acquisition of home-grown retailer Flipkart will affect India's retail sector "very badly" and demanded scanning and scrutinising the deal from "different angles" by the government. (With inputs from PTI)

Walmart deal will be cancerous to retail trade, says CAIT

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-to-march-on-pms-home-today-stalin-says-bjp-proactively-destroying-countrys-federal-structure-144907">AAP to march on PM's home today, Stalin says BJP 'proactively destroying' country's federal structure</a>

The Aam Aadmi Party will march on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Race Course residence today, calling on him to help put a stop to the "strike" by Delhi's IAS officers.&nbsp

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and three of his colleagues had on Monday gone to visit the Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal to ask him to intervene in the strike. When Baijal refused to meet them, they began a sit in in his waiting room.&nbsp

They have been there since.&nbsp

 
<a href="Taxi ploughs into Moscow crowd including football fans, 8 hurt">Taxi ploughs into Moscow crowd including football fans, 8 hurt</a>

A taxi drove into a crowd of pedestrians near Moscow's Red Square on Saturday, injuring eight people including two Mexicans in the city for the soccer World Cup which Russia is hosting, officials and eyewitnesses said.

The incident took place as residents and visiting soccer fans from around the world thronged the centre of Moscow on a balmy summer evening.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-security-forces-seen-hugging-as-govt-extends-eid-ceasefire-144894">Afghanistan: Taliban, security forces </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-security-forces-seen-hugging-as-govt-extends-eid-ceasefire-144894">seen</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-security-forces-seen-hugging-as-govt-extends-eid-ceasefire-144894"> hugging as government extends Eid ceasefire</a>

An Afghan government ceasefire with the Taliban was extended Saturday despite a suicide bombing killing at least 25, which marred an otherwise remarkable Eid holiday that has seen militants hugging security forces and civilians in celebration of the unprecedented truce.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2018-croatia-cruise-to-2-0-win-over-nigeria-144888">FIFA World Cup 2018: Croatia cruise to 2-0 win over Nigeria</a>

Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr admitted his young team had been "naive" in a 2-0 loss to Croatia in their opening Group D game Saturday, continuing a dismal recent record at World Cups.

A Luka Modric penalty 20 minutes from time and a first-half own goal sealed victory for a Croatia side brimming with technical ability, and the Super Eagles -- who brought the youngest squad to Russia -- have now won just one of their last 13 games on football's biggest stage. &nbsp

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-we-will-avenge-auranzebs-murder-if-the-government-fails-to-do-so-says-army-jawans-brother-144896">Kashmir: 'Will avenge his murder if govt cannot do so,' says Army jawan's brother</a>&nbsp

Rifleman Aurangzeb's brother on Saturday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to avenge his brother's gruesome death. Armyman Aurangzeb was abducted by terrorists from Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. His bullet-ridden body was recovered from Jammu and Kashmir's Gusoo area on Thursday.&nbsp

"I would urge Prime Minister Modi to avenge our brother's death. We want hundred of their people to pay the price for my brother's loss of life. We have reached out to the government, if the government is not able to avenge Aurangzeb's death, we know how to do it ourselves and we will do it," he told ANI.

 
&nbsp

AAP to march on PM's home today, Stalin says BJP 'proactively destroying' country's federal structure The Aam Aadmi Party will march on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Race Course residence today, calling on him to help put a stop to the "strike" by Delhi's IAS officers. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and three of his colleagues had on Monday gone to visit the Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal to ask him to intervene in the strike. When Baijal refused to meet them, they began a sit in in his waiting room. They have been there since. Taxi ploughs into Moscow crowd including football fans, 8 hurt A taxi drove into a crowd of pedestrians near Moscow's Red Square on Saturday, injuring eight people including two Mexicans in the city for the soccer World Cup which Russia is hosting, officials and eyewitnesses said. The incident took place as residents and visiting soccer fans from around the world thronged the centre of Moscow on a balmy summer evening. Afghanistan: Taliban, security forces seen hugging as government extends Eid ceasefire An Afghan government ceasefire with the Taliban was extended Saturday despite a suicide bombing killing at least 25, which marred an otherwise remarkable Eid holiday that has seen militants hugging security forces and civilians in celebration of the unprecedented truce. FIFA World Cup 2018: Croatia cruise to 2-0 win over Nigeria Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr admitted his young team had been "naive" in a 2-0 loss to Croatia in their opening Group D game Saturday, continuing a dismal recent record at World Cups. A Luka Modric penalty 20 minutes from time and a first-half own goal sealed victory for a Croatia side brimming with technical ability, and the Super Eagles -- who brought the youngest squad to Russia -- have now won just one of their last 13 games on football's biggest stage. Kashmir: 'Will avenge his murder if govt cannot do so,' says Army jawan's brother Rifleman Aurangzeb's brother on Saturday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to avenge his brother's gruesome death. Armyman Aurangzeb was abducted by terrorists from Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district. His bullet-ridden body was recovered from Jammu and Kashmir's Gusoo area on Thursday. "I would urge Prime Minister Modi to avenge our brother's death. We want hundred of their people to pay the price for my brother's loss of life. We have reached out to the government, if the government is not able to avenge Aurangzeb's death, we know how to do it ourselves and we will do it," he told ANI.

Google has released a doodle on Sunday commemorating Father’s Day. The heartwarming design features six painted hand-prints with the colours matching those of the lettering on the search giant's normal logo.

With the simple additions of a slender neck and a pair of eyes the prints become a multicoloured herd of diplodocus dinosaurs.

The colourful doodle speaks of the love, compassion, protection and care a father harbours for his child.&nbsp

The search engine also has honoured the love and sacrifices that a father makes for the betterment of their children.

Father’s Day is celebrated on different days in different countries. India follows the North American tradition of celebrating it on the third Sunday of June. Some South American nations, as well as a few European ones, celebrate it on this day too.

The search giant is celebrating dads on their special day with a quirky design featuring hand-printed dinosaurs

Google has released a doodle on Sunday commemorating Father’s Day. The heartwarming design features six painted hand-prints with the colours matching those of the lettering on the search giant's normal logo. With the simple additions of a slender neck and a pair of eyes the prints become a multicoloured herd of diplodocus dinosaurs. The colourful doodle speaks of the love, compassion, protection and care a father harbours for his child. The search engine also has honoured the love and sacrifices that a father makes for the betterment of their children. Father’s Day is celebrated on different days in different countries. India follows the North American tradition of celebrating it on the third Sunday of June. Some South American nations, as well as a few European ones, celebrate it on this day too.

Google celebrates Fathers Day with dinosaur theme doodle

Senior political leaders visited the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is undergoing treatment for Urinary Tract Infection.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh, Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das, and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar were among the senior leaders to visit the hospital on Saturday.

Vajpayee was admitted at Delhi's AIIMS on June 11 he was diagnosed with urinary tract infection, chest congestion, and low urine output.

However, according to a statement issued by AIIMS, the former Prime Minister is showing improvement.

"Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is stable. He continues to show improvement and is being monitored by a team of doctors," read the statement.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, veteran BJP leader LK&nbspAdvani, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP Chief Amit Shah, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and others visited Vajpayee at the hospital.

According to a statement issued by AIIMS, the former Prime Minister is showing improvement

Senior political leaders visited the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is undergoing treatment for Urinary Tract Infection. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh, Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das, and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar were among the senior leaders to visit the hospital on Saturday. Vajpayee was admitted at Delhi's AIIMS on June 11 he was diagnosed with urinary tract infection, chest congestion, and low urine output. However, according to a statement issued by AIIMS, the former Prime Minister is showing improvement. "Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee is stable. He continues to show improvement and is being monitored by a team of doctors," read the statement. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, veteran BJP leader LK&nbspAdvani, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP Chief Amit Shah, Congress president Rahul Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and others visited Vajpayee at the hospital.

Raman Singh, Nitish Kumar visit Vajpayee at AIIMS

Union Minister Vijay Goel hit out at the four non-NDA Chief Ministers for backing their Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal in his ongoing rift with Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.

Criticising the decision of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for extending support to Kejriwal,

Goel on Saturday questioned as to why they did not object to the assault on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash.

"Do these four Chief Ministers know what led to this crisis? Where were these people when Delhi's Chief Secretary was being humiliated and assaulted? This crisis began from there," Goyal told ANI.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Do these 4 Chief Ministers know what led to this crisis? Where were these people when Delhi's Chief Secretary was being humiliated & assaulted. This crisis began from there: Union Minister V.Goel on West Bengal CM, Kerala CM, Karnataka CM & Andhra Pradesh CM's support to Delhi CM <a href="https://t.co/hkdvr2i57B">pic.twitter.com/hkdvr2i57B</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1008049972389011456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the four chief ministers wrote a letter to the Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal seeking an appointment to meet over the issues concerning Kejriwal and the Delhi government. However, they were denied permission.

They also visited Kejriwal's residence to meet his family before meeting the former at the Lt Governor office.

Kejriwal, along with Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Cabinet ministers Satyendra Jain and Gopal Rai, has been camping at Raj Niwas since June 11 demanding a direction to the IAS officers working under the Delhi administration to end their 'undeclared strike', among other demands.&nbsp;

Earlier, the four chief ministers wrote a letter to the Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal seeking an appointment to meet over the issues concerning Kejriwal and the Delhi government

Union Minister Vijay Goel hit out at the four non-NDA Chief Ministers for backing their Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal in his ongoing rift with Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. Criticising the decision of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for extending support to Kejriwal, Goel on Saturday questioned as to why they did not object to the assault on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash. "Do these four Chief Ministers know what led to this crisis? Where were these people when Delhi's Chief Secretary was being humiliated and assaulted? This crisis began from there," Goyal told ANI. Do these 4 Chief Ministers know what led to this crisis? Where were these people when Delhi's Chief Secretary was being humiliated & assaulted. This crisis began from there: Union Minister V.Goel on West Bengal CM, Kerala CM, Karnataka CM & Andhra Pradesh CM's support to Delhi CM pic.twitter.com/hkdvr2i57B — ANI (@ANI) June 16, 2018 × Earlier, the four chief ministers wrote a letter to the Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal seeking an appointment to meet over the issues concerning Kejriwal and the Delhi government. However, they were denied permission. They also visited Kejriwal's residence to meet his family before meeting the former at the Lt Governor office. Kejriwal, along with Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Cabinet ministers Satyendra Jain and Gopal Rai, has been camping at Raj Niwas since June 11 demanding a direction to the IAS officers working under the Delhi administration to end their 'undeclared strike', among other demands.

Vijay Goel hits out at Chief Ministers supporting Kejriwal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the world expects India to become a five-trillion-dollar economy soon.

"The world expects India to become a five trillion dollar economy soon," he said while delivering the closing remarks at a meeting of the NITI Aayog's governing council in Delhi on Sunday.

The Prime Minister also encouraged states to give fresh ideas to the Finance Commission for incentivising outcome-based allocations, and expenditure correction.

Welcoming the constructive discussion and suggestions made by various chief ministers of the states, the Prime Minister assured the gathering that these suggestions would be seriously considered in the course of decision-making.

He also directed the government's think tank to follow up with the states on the actionable points made by them within three months.

"On the lines of the 115 aspirational districts identified by NITI Aayog, states can define their own parameters to identify 20 per cent of the total blocks in the state as aspirational blocks," he said.

Expressing happiness that the states were organising investor summits, he further suggested that they should focus on exports.

He also encouraged the states to boost ease of doing business, saying NITI Aayog should call a meeting with all the states for the same. He said "ease of living" for the common man was also the need of the hour, and states should take initiatives in this regard.

Speaking on the issue of environment raised by chief ministers in the meet, Prime Minister Modi urged all states to use LED bulbs in their government buildings, official residences and streetlights. He suggested that this could be implemented within a definite timeframe.

He called upon the Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh, to work together to make recommendations on a coordinated policy approach to the two subjects of "agriculture and MNREGA," including both pre-sowing, and post-harvest phases.

The Prime Minister stated that it was vital to identify the "last people in the line" so that benefits of governance could reach them. He also said social justice was an important governmental objective and those noble causes required close coordination and constant monitoring.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the Union Government's commitment to providing universal coverage of seven key schemes to 45,000 additional villages in 115 Aspirational Districts, by August 15 this year.

The Prime Minister also encouraged states to give fresh ideas to the Finance Commission for incentivising outcome-based allocations, and expenditure correction

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the world expects India to become a five-trillion-dollar economy soon. "The world expects India to become a five trillion dollar economy soon," he said while delivering the closing remarks at a meeting of the NITI Aayog's governing council in Delhi on Sunday. The Prime Minister also encouraged states to give fresh ideas to the Finance Commission for incentivising outcome-based allocations, and expenditure correction. Welcoming the constructive discussion and suggestions made by various chief ministers of the states, the Prime Minister assured the gathering that these suggestions would be seriously considered in the course of decision-making. He also directed the government's think tank to follow up with the states on the actionable points made by them within three months. "On the lines of the 115 aspirational districts identified by NITI Aayog, states can define their own parameters to identify 20 per cent of the total blocks in the state as aspirational blocks," he said. Expressing happiness that the states were organising investor summits, he further suggested that they should focus on exports. He also encouraged the states to boost ease of doing business, saying NITI Aayog should call a meeting with all the states for the same. He said "ease of living" for the common man was also the need of the hour, and states should take initiatives in this regard. Speaking on the issue of environment raised by chief ministers in the meet, Prime Minister Modi urged all states to use LED bulbs in their government buildings, official residences and streetlights. He suggested that this could be implemented within a definite timeframe. He called upon the Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh, to work together to make recommendations on a coordinated policy approach to the two subjects of "agriculture and MNREGA," including both pre-sowing, and post-harvest phases. The Prime Minister stated that it was vital to identify the "last people in the line" so that benefits of governance could reach them. He also said social justice was an important governmental objective and those noble causes required close coordination and constant monitoring. Prime Minister Modi reiterated the Union Government's commitment to providing universal coverage of seven key schemes to 45,000 additional villages in 115 Aspirational Districts, by August 15 this year.

India envisioned as five trillion-dollar economy: PM Modi

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Himachal Pradesh has predicted rainfall in dust-covered Shimla in the next two days. The Himachal town was battling high temperatures and dust-laden air the past week.&nbsp

"North-westerly winds carried dust to entire North India. Humidity was high in Himachal. With dust, visibility was poor here. Rainfall is expected in next 2 days, it'll clear weather," state IMD Director Manmohan Singh told ANI.

The weather department also issued warnings of thunderstorms, rain, and squally winds in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and western Himalayan region.

Chandigarh airport on Friday cancelled as many as 26 flights due to extreme weather conditions.&nbsp

Meanwhile, Air Quality Index (AQI) reports in the national capital indicated that PM 2.5 and PM 10 particles were in the moderate and severe categories respectively on Saturday.

In Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the PM 2.5 particles level was at the 169 mark, while PM 10 pollutant level was at 500.

Strong-anti cyclonic winds, blowing from Rajasthan, have been singled out as the reason behind the worsening air quality.

In the wake of the poor air quality over Delhi, Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had on Thursday ordered to stop all civil construction activities across the national capital from June 15 to 17 to bring down the severe dust pollution.

The weather department also issued warnings of thunderstorms, rain, and squally winds in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and western Himalayan region

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Himachal Pradesh has predicted rainfall in dust-covered Shimla in the next two days. The Himachal town was battling high temperatures and dust-laden air the past week. "North-westerly winds carried dust to entire North India. Humidity was high in Himachal. With dust, visibility was poor here. Rainfall is expected in next 2 days, it'll clear weather," state IMD Director Manmohan Singh told ANI. The weather department also issued warnings of thunderstorms, rain, and squally winds in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and western Himalayan region. Chandigarh airport on Friday cancelled as many as 26 flights due to extreme weather conditions. Meanwhile, Air Quality Index (AQI) reports in the national capital indicated that PM 2.5 and PM 10 particles were in the moderate and severe categories respectively on Saturday. In Delhi's Lodhi Road area, the PM 2.5 particles level was at the 169 mark, while PM 10 pollutant level was at 500. Strong-anti cyclonic winds, blowing from Rajasthan, have been singled out as the reason behind the worsening air quality. In the wake of the poor air quality over Delhi, Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had on Thursday ordered to stop all civil construction activities across the national capital from June 15 to 17 to bring down the severe dust pollution.

IMD predicts downpour for dust-covered Shimla

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for "widespread" debate on holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies saying that it will result in financial savings, according to news agency PTI.

He was addressing the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog that was attended by 23 chief ministers and one Lt Governor as also several union ministers and members of the think-tank.

The central government has been toying with the idea of holding simultaneous elections for quite some time now.

"The Prime Minister called for widespread debate and consultations on simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabhas, keeping in view various aspects such as the resulting financial savings and consequent better utilisation of resources," an official release said.

Later, briefing reporters, Niti Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar said the Prime Minister noted that the country remains in "perpetual election mode" and pitched for holding simultaneous elections to elect Members of Parliament and state assemblies.

To begin with, he said, Modi suggested there could be one uniform voter list for all elections.

Niti Aayog had last year suggested synchronised, two-phase Lok Sabha and assembly polls from 2024 so as to ensure minimum 'campaign-mode' disruption to governance.

In his closing remarks at the meet, Modi also said that corporate investment in agriculture is very low in India and urged the state governments to formulate policies to promote industry participation in the farm sector.

Speaking on various aspects of the economy, Modi said the world expects India to become a USD 5 trillion economy soon.

He encouraged states to give fresh ideas to the Finance Commission, for incentivising outcome-based allocations, and expenditure correction.&nbsp

Modi was addressing the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog that was attended by 23 chief ministers and one Lt Governor as also several union ministers and members of the think-tank.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for "widespread" debate on holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies saying that it will result in financial savings, according to news agency PTI. He was addressing the fourth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog that was attended by 23 chief ministers and one Lt Governor as also several union ministers and members of the think-tank. The central government has been toying with the idea of holding simultaneous elections for quite some time now. "The Prime Minister called for widespread debate and consultations on simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabhas, keeping in view various aspects such as the resulting financial savings and consequent better utilisation of resources," an official release said. Later, briefing reporters, Niti Aayog Vice-Chairman Rajiv Kumar said the Prime Minister noted that the country remains in "perpetual election mode" and pitched for holding simultaneous elections to elect Members of Parliament and state assemblies. To begin with, he said, Modi suggested there could be one uniform voter list for all elections. Niti Aayog had last year suggested synchronised, two-phase Lok Sabha and assembly polls from 2024 so as to ensure minimum 'campaign-mode' disruption to governance. In his closing remarks at the meet, Modi also said that corporate investment in agriculture is very low in India and urged the state governments to formulate policies to promote industry participation in the farm sector. Speaking on various aspects of the economy, Modi said the world expects India to become a USD 5 trillion economy soon. He encouraged states to give fresh ideas to the Finance Commission, for incentivising outcome-based allocations, and expenditure correction.

Modi favours wider debate on holding simultaneous polls

Patidar quota agitation leader Hardik Patel on Friday extended his support to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, in the latter's ongoing rift with Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal.

Patel took to Twitter and said, "The party does not hold importance for me but I stand with Arvind Kejriwal in this battle. It is important for everybody to come together to save the democracy"

Kejriwal also got support from Chief Ministers of West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka.

Kejriwal also took to Twitter to convey his gratitude to the ministers for their support. He said, "The people of Delhi will ever be grateful to you sirs @ncbn @vijayanpinarayi @hd_kumaraswamy and @MamataOfficial didi. We all will work together to save democracy. Thank u so much."

Earlier, the four chief ministers visited Kejriwal's residence to meet his family before meeting the former at the Lt Governor office.

The Chief Ministers also wrote a letter to the Lieutenant Governor seeking an appointment to meet over the issues concerning Kejriwal and the Delhi government.

Kejriwal, along with Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Cabinet ministers Satyendra Jain and Gopal Rai, has been camping at Raj Niwas since June 11 demanding a direction to the IAS officers working under the Delhi administration to end their 'undeclared strike', among other demands.&nbsp

Patel took to Twitter and said, 'the party does not hold importance for me but I stand with Arvind Kejriwal in this battle'

Patidar quota agitation leader Hardik Patel on Friday extended his support to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, in the latter's ongoing rift with Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal. Patel took to Twitter and said, "The party does not hold importance for me but I stand with Arvind Kejriwal in this battle. It is important for everybody to come together to save the democracy" Kejriwal also got support from Chief Ministers of West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. Kejriwal also took to Twitter to convey his gratitude to the ministers for their support. He said, "The people of Delhi will ever be grateful to you sirs @ncbn @vijayanpinarayi @hd_kumaraswamy and @MamataOfficial didi. We all will work together to save democracy. Thank u so much." Earlier, the four chief ministers visited Kejriwal's residence to meet his family before meeting the former at the Lt Governor office. The Chief Ministers also wrote a letter to the Lieutenant Governor seeking an appointment to meet over the issues concerning Kejriwal and the Delhi government. Kejriwal, along with Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia and Cabinet ministers Satyendra Jain and Gopal Rai, has been camping at Raj Niwas since June 11 demanding a direction to the IAS officers working under the Delhi administration to end their 'undeclared strike', among other demands.

Hardik Patel backs Kejriwal to 'save democracy'

In yet another sign of birth pangs in their coalition, Congress and JDS in Karnataka today differed on the tabling of a new full-fledged budget for 2018-19.

While the Congress said there was no need for a fresh budget and insisted that a supplementary budget would do, JD(S) asserted that a fresh one was needed to demonstrate the direction of the new government.

Strongly pushing for a new budget, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said he would meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi to sort out the issue soon.

Former chief minister and Chairman of the Congress-JDS coordination committee Siddaramaiah expressed his strong reservations over presenting a new full-fledged budget, saying there was no need for such an exercise.

Siddaramaiah, who is also the Congress Legislature Party leader, said he had already tabled the budget as chief minister a few months ago.

"Budget has already been tabled. It is a full-fledged budget only. That's why we had taken vote on accounts for four months. It will be there till July end. All the ongoing programmes and new programmes announced in the budget will continue," said Siddaramaiah.

He advised Kumaraswamy that if he wants to carry out certain projects and launch some schemes, he can bring out a supplementary budget.

Reacting to Siddaramaiah's 'suggestion', Kumaraswamy told reporters in Delhi that the new government has to demonstrate its objectives to the people.

"Whenever a new government comes to power, it needs to demonstrate what its goals are. We cannot limit ourselves to presenting supplementary budget because there are many challenges before the government."

He also said the Congress, as well as the JD(S), made several promises incorporating new programmes.

"A supplementary budget would not suffice to incorporate them all," he said.

Kumaraswamy reminded Siddaramaiah about his statement in the past that if a new government takes over after the election, a new budget may be presented.

"Today Janata Dal (S) and Congress have formed a coalition government. Usually, when a new government comes to power, its duty is to present the best budget and send our message to people through it," the chief minister said.

In this connection, he said, he would meet Rahul Gandhi in a day or two and sort out the matter.

Replying to a question, Kumaraswamy said, "I am not uncomfortable with my&nbsp;coalition government but I have become uncomfortable for my media friends."

He conceded that delay in the expansion of cabinet gave room for speculative media reports doubting the longevity of the government.

"Let us assume that there is a threat to the government as you are speculating but at least nobody can touch (this government) till the parliament elections. This is what I had said (yesterday)," he said.

"After the Congress decided to retain this government for five years, it is their wish to run this coalition government not just for five years but for 10 to 15 years, just as Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) ran the coalition government in Maharashtra," he added.

Kumaraswamy appealed to the media to allow him to work and said the common minimum programme would be ready in 10 days.&nbsp;

While the Congress said there was no need for a fresh budget and insisted that a supplementary budget would do, JD(S) asserted that a fresh one was needed to demonstrate the direction of the new government.

In yet another sign of birth pangs in their coalition, Congress and JDS in Karnataka today differed on the tabling of a new full-fledged budget for 2018-19. While the Congress said there was no need for a fresh budget and insisted that a supplementary budget would do, JD(S) asserted that a fresh one was needed to demonstrate the direction of the new government. Strongly pushing for a new budget, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said he would meet Congress President Rahul Gandhi to sort out the issue soon. Former chief minister and Chairman of the Congress-JDS coordination committee Siddaramaiah expressed his strong reservations over presenting a new full-fledged budget, saying there was no need for such an exercise. Siddaramaiah, who is also the Congress Legislature Party leader, said he had already tabled the budget as chief minister a few months ago. "Budget has already been tabled. It is a full-fledged budget only. That's why we had taken vote on accounts for four months. It will be there till July end. All the ongoing programmes and new programmes announced in the budget will continue," said Siddaramaiah. He advised Kumaraswamy that if he wants to carry out certain projects and launch some schemes, he can bring out a supplementary budget. Reacting to Siddaramaiah's 'suggestion', Kumaraswamy told reporters in Delhi that the new government has to demonstrate its objectives to the people. "Whenever a new government comes to power, it needs to demonstrate what its goals are. We cannot limit ourselves to presenting supplementary budget because there are many challenges before the government." He also said the Congress, as well as the JD(S), made several promises incorporating new programmes. "A supplementary budget would not suffice to incorporate them all," he said. Kumaraswamy reminded Siddaramaiah about his statement in the past that if a new government takes over after the election, a new budget may be presented. "Today Janata Dal (S) and Congress have formed a coalition government. Usually, when a new government comes to power, its duty is to present the best budget and send our message to people through it," the chief minister said. In this connection, he said, he would meet Rahul Gandhi in a day or two and sort out the matter. Replying to a question, Kumaraswamy said, "I am not uncomfortable with my coalition government but I have become uncomfortable for my media friends." He conceded that delay in the expansion of cabinet gave room for speculative media reports doubting the longevity of the government. "Let us assume that there is a threat to the government as you are speculating but at least nobody can touch (this government) till the parliament elections. This is what I had said (yesterday)," he said. "After the Congress decided to retain this government for five years, it is their wish to run this coalition government not just for five years but for 10 to 15 years, just as Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) ran the coalition government in Maharashtra," he added. Kumaraswamy appealed to the media to allow him to work and said the common minimum programme would be ready in 10 days.

Kumaraswamy seeks Rahul's intervention as Congress, JD(S) differ over budget

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