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US&nbspretail sales increased more than expected in May as consumers bought motor vehicles and a range of other goods even as they paid more for gasoline, the latest indication of an acceleration in economic growth in the second quarter.

Other data on Thursday showed a further tightening in labor market conditions, with first-time applications for unemployment benefits unexpectedly falling last week and the number of Americans on jobless rolls declining to a near 44-1/2-year low.

The reports came a day after the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for a second time this year and offered an upbeat assessment of the economy. The US&nbspcentral bank described economic activity as "rising at a solid rate" and the labor market as continuing to "strengthen." The Fed forecast two more rate hikes in the second half of 2018.

"In short, the Fed was right to upgrade its assessment of economic growth to 'solid' in yesterday's statement," said Paul Ashworth, chief U.S. economist at Capital Economics in Toronto.

The Commerce Department said retail sales jumped 0.8 percent last month, the biggest advance since November 2017. Data for April was revised up to show sales rising 0.4 percent instead of the previously reported 0.2 percent gain.

Economists polled by Reuters had forecast retail sales rising 0.4 percent in May. Retail sales in May increased 5.9 percent from a year ago.

Excluding automobiles, gasoline, building materials and food services, retail sales rose 0.5 percent last month after an upwardly revised 0.6 percent increase in April. These so-called core retail sales correspond most closely with the consumer spending component of gross domestic product. They were previously reported to have risen 0.5 percent in April.

The strong retail sales report added to data ranging from the labor market to manufacturing and trade in suggesting the economy was regaining momentum in the second quarter after growth slowed at the start of the year amid a sharp step-down in consumer spending.

Growth estimates for the April-June quarter are as high as a 4.6 percent annualized rate. The economy grew at a 2.2 percent rate in the first quarter.

The dollar extended gains versus a basket of currencies after the data while prices for US&nbspTreasuries fell. US&nbspstock index futures were trading higher.

&nbsp

TIGHT LABOR MARKET

Retail sales are being underpinned by a robust labor market, which is gradually boosting wage growth. In a separate report on Thursday, the Labor Department said initial claims for state unemployment benefits dropped 4,000 to a seasonally adjusted 218,000 for the week ended June 9.

Economists polled by Reuters had forecast claims rising to 224,000 in the latest week. The number of people receiving benefits after an initial week of aid declined 49,000 to 1.70 million in the week ended June 2, the lowest level since December 1973.

The labor market is considered to be close to or at full employment, with the jobless rate at an 18-year low of 3.8 percent. The unemployment rate has dropped by three-tenths of a percentage point this year. It is near the Fed's forecast of 3.6 percent by the end of this year.

Layoffs have remained very low amid signs of growing worker shortages across all sectors of the economy. The were a record 6.7 million job openings in April. The number of unemployed people per vacancy slipped to 0.9 from 1.0 in March, indicating that most people looking for a job are likely to find one.

Retail sales in May were boosted by a 0.5 percent rise in receipts at auto dealerships. Auto sales rose 0.2 percent in April. Sales at service stations surged 2.0 percent last month, reflecting higher gasoline prices.

Prices at the pump have risen by 15.5 percent this year, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration data. Expensive gasoline, if sustained, could pull spending away from other categories.

Sales at building material stores rebounded 2.4 percent last month after declining 0.8 percent in April. Receipts at clothing stores surged 1.3 percent, the largest gain since March 2017.

Sales at restaurants and bars jumped 1.3 percent, the biggest rise since January 2017. There were also increases in online retail sales, but receipts at furniture stores fell 2.4 percent, the largest drop since December 2013.

Americans also continued to cut back on spending on sport and hobbies. Sales at sporting goods, hobby and musical instrument and book stores fell 1.1 percent after slipping 0.2 percent in April.

The Commerce Department said retail sales jumped 0.8 percent last month, the biggest advance since November 2017

US&nbspretail sales increased more than expected in May as consumers bought motor vehicles and a range of other goods even as they paid more for gasoline, the latest indication of an acceleration in economic growth in the second quarter. Other data on Thursday showed a further tightening in labor market conditions, with first-time applications for unemployment benefits unexpectedly falling last week and the number of Americans on jobless rolls declining to a near 44-1/2-year low. The reports came a day after the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for a second time this year and offered an upbeat assessment of the economy. The US&nbspcentral bank described economic activity as "rising at a solid rate" and the labor market as continuing to "strengthen." The Fed forecast two more rate hikes in the second half of 2018. "In short, the Fed was right to upgrade its assessment of economic growth to 'solid' in yesterday's statement," said Paul Ashworth, chief U.S. economist at Capital Economics in Toronto. The Commerce Department said retail sales jumped 0.8 percent last month, the biggest advance since November 2017. Data for April was revised up to show sales rising 0.4 percent instead of the previously reported 0.2 percent gain. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast retail sales rising 0.4 percent in May. Retail sales in May increased 5.9 percent from a year ago. Excluding automobiles, gasoline, building materials and food services, retail sales rose 0.5 percent last month after an upwardly revised 0.6 percent increase in April. These so-called core retail sales correspond most closely with the consumer spending component of gross domestic product. They were previously reported to have risen 0.5 percent in April. The strong retail sales report added to data ranging from the labor market to manufacturing and trade in suggesting the economy was regaining momentum in the second quarter after growth slowed at the start of the year amid a sharp step-down in consumer spending. Growth estimates for the April-June quarter are as high as a 4.6 percent annualized rate. The economy grew at a 2.2 percent rate in the first quarter. The dollar extended gains versus a basket of currencies after the data while prices for US&nbspTreasuries fell. US&nbspstock index futures were trading higher. TIGHT LABOR MARKET Retail sales are being underpinned by a robust labor market, which is gradually boosting wage growth. In a separate report on Thursday, the Labor Department said initial claims for state unemployment benefits dropped 4,000 to a seasonally adjusted 218,000 for the week ended June 9. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast claims rising to 224,000 in the latest week. The number of people receiving benefits after an initial week of aid declined 49,000 to 1.70 million in the week ended June 2, the lowest level since December 1973. The labor market is considered to be close to or at full employment, with the jobless rate at an 18-year low of 3.8 percent. The unemployment rate has dropped by three-tenths of a percentage point this year. It is near the Fed's forecast of 3.6 percent by the end of this year. Layoffs have remained very low amid signs of growing worker shortages across all sectors of the economy. The were a record 6.7 million job openings in April. The number of unemployed people per vacancy slipped to 0.9 from 1.0 in March, indicating that most people looking for a job are likely to find one. Retail sales in May were boosted by a 0.5 percent rise in receipts at auto dealerships. Auto sales rose 0.2 percent in April. Sales at service stations surged 2.0 percent last month, reflecting higher gasoline prices. Prices at the pump have risen by 15.5 percent this year, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration data. Expensive gasoline, if sustained, could pull spending away from other categories. Sales at building material stores rebounded 2.4 percent last month after declining 0.8 percent in April. Receipts at clothing stores surged 1.3 percent, the largest gain since March 2017. Sales at restaurants and bars jumped 1.3 percent, the biggest rise since January 2017. There were also increases in online retail sales, but receipts at furniture stores fell 2.4 percent, the largest drop since December 2013. Americans also continued to cut back on spending on sport and hobbies. Sales at sporting goods, hobby and musical instrument and book stores fell 1.1 percent after slipping 0.2 percent in April.

US retail sales surge in May; weekly jobless claims fall

Congress president Rahul Gandhi described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's fitness video put out this morning as "bizarre" and "ridiculous".

Hosting an Iftar party at a luxury hotel here today, Gandhi said this amounted to bankruptcy and asked CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury to put out his fitness video to match the prime minister.

"Did you see the PM's fitness video? It is ridiculous... I mean... It is bizarre... This is bankruptcy," he said as he poked fun at the video put out by the prime minister.

Sharing a table with former presidents Pranab Mukherjee and Pratibha Patil, Gandhi then turned to Yechury asking him to put out his fitness video as a challenge to Modi's.

TMC leader Dinesh Trivedi, BSP leader Satish Chandra Misra and DMK's Kanimozhi were among those who had a hearty laugh over the prime minister's video.

Mukherjee, Patil and former vice president Hamid Ansari, who were sharing the table, were silently hearing the conversation.

Among others who also attended the Congress chief's Iftar included former prime minister Manmohan Singh. 
 
UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi was not present as she is currently abroad.

Earlier, Congress leader Pramod Tewari termed the fitness video as an insult to the supreme sacrifice of the four BSF personnel who died in cross-border firing from Pakistan in Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Congress President made his comments at the iftar party hosted by him Wednesday night. He also asked CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury to put out a fitness video to match that of the prime minister's

Congress president Rahul Gandhi described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's fitness video put out this morning as "bizarre" and "ridiculous". Hosting an Iftar party at a luxury hotel here today, Gandhi said this amounted to bankruptcy and asked CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury to put out his fitness video to match the prime minister. "Did you see the PM's fitness video? It is ridiculous... I mean... It is bizarre... This is bankruptcy," he said as he poked fun at the video put out by the prime minister. Sharing a table with former presidents Pranab Mukherjee and Pratibha Patil, Gandhi then turned to Yechury asking him to put out his fitness video as a challenge to Modi's. TMC leader Dinesh Trivedi, BSP leader Satish Chandra Misra and DMK's Kanimozhi were among those who had a hearty laugh over the prime minister's video. Mukherjee, Patil and former vice president Hamid Ansari, who were sharing the table, were silently hearing the conversation. Among others who also attended the Congress chief's Iftar included former prime minister Manmohan Singh. UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi was not present as she is currently abroad. Earlier, Congress leader Pramod Tewari termed the fitness video as an insult to the supreme sacrifice of the four BSF personnel who died in cross-border firing from Pakistan in Kashmir.

Modi fitness video 'bizarre, ridiculous', says Rahul Gandhi

A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy was attacked by stone pelters in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday after one of the CRPF buses allegedly hit a motorcycle in Banihal area of the state.

There has been a spike in the stone pelting incident in the valley after the encounter of the militant Burhan Wani in July 2016.

19 CRPF personnel were injured on May 27 after the vehicle they were travelling in skidded off the road due to stones being pelted on it in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

The stone pelting also claimed the life of a tourist from Chennai on May 7. The 22-year-old tourist&nbspR. Thirumani (22) died after getting injured in the stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir's Narbal area.

The Chief Minister of the state had called an all-party meeting earlier to discuss measures to curb such incidents.

The stone pelting incident in the valley became prominent in the region from the 2008 Kashmir protests. Stone pelting was reported on a regular basis&nbspin 2010 Kashmir unrest and 2016-17 Kashmir unrest.&nbsp

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Stones were pelted on the convoy of CRPF after one of the CRPF buses allegedly hit a motorcycle in Banihal area of Jammu & Kashmir. <a href="https://t.co/grP9XUD5BQ">pic.twitter.com/grP9XUD5BQ</a>
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&nbsp

A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy was attacked by stone pelters in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday after one of the CRPF buses allegedly hit a motorcycle in Banihal area of the state

A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy was attacked by stone pelters in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday after one of the CRPF buses allegedly hit a motorcycle in Banihal area of the state. There has been a spike in the stone pelting incident in the valley after the encounter of the militant Burhan Wani in July 2016. 19 CRPF personnel were injured on May 27 after the vehicle they were travelling in skidded off the road due to stones being pelted on it in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. The stone pelting also claimed the life of a tourist from Chennai on May 7. The 22-year-old tourist&nbspR. Thirumani (22) died after getting injured in the stone pelting in Jammu and Kashmir's Narbal area. The Chief Minister of the state had called an all-party meeting earlier to discuss measures to curb such incidents. The stone pelting incident in the valley became prominent in the region from the 2008 Kashmir protests. Stone pelting was reported on a regular basis&nbspin 2010 Kashmir unrest and 2016-17 Kashmir unrest. #WATCH: Stones were pelted on the convoy of CRPF after one of the CRPF buses allegedly hit a motorcycle in Banihal area of Jammu & Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/grP9XUD5BQ — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 ×

Watch: Stone pelters attack CRPF convoy

Madhu Goud Yaskhi&nbsp;is two-time Congress MP from Nizamabad who returned to India in 2004 to successfully contest elections in 2004. Nizamabad is part of the state of Telangana. Yaski looks after Congress Overseas Cell and is Secretary in charge of Karnataka. In an interview with WION, Yaski says that earlier when PM’s went abroad, they went as Indians, but Narendra Modi makes his foreign trips all about his own party. Edited excerpts&nbsp;

 
Q: Of late Congress has shown a lot of interest in reorganising its overseas Indian cell?

A: We could see the potential of overseas Indians. They have a lot to contribute. There exists a diaspora impact in India especially in states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Kerala and Gujarat. &nbsp;There is another issue. When MPs would visit foreign countries, we were specifically told by MEA that you represent your country and not the party. It has been changed by Modi. Whenever he meets the Indian diaspora, he toes the party line. Diaspora has been politicised. Diaspora also helped BJP win 2014 elections. Our estimate is that 500 diaspora IT professionals came to Ahmedabad to help BJP in Lok Sabha elections.

&nbsp;

Q: BJP has the first mover advantage. They are well organised and have functioning units abroad? PM’s interaction with NRIs is also far more frequent than Congress President.

A: BJP took advantage of anti-Islamic sentiments which is prevalent globally. They convinced the diaspora that Congress empowerment of minorities was an appeasement which wasn’t the case. I would say that nothing much has been done for the NRIs in this present dispensation. Many NRIs lost money because of DeMo as they could not travel back under the specified time. Even today there is no visa online. Please don’t go on the scale. Rahul Gandhi's tour to the United States was very well received.

&nbsp;

Q: What are the prospects of Congress Party in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh?

A: We are fighting fit in Telangana. We will defeat TRS in the next assembly elections. In Andhra Pradesh, our vote share has gone up from 3 per cent to 12 per cent. There is some resentment over the fact that special status was not accorded to the state. &nbsp;So, we will still play an important role in AP. In Telangana, people don’t hate us. We will come back to power in the state.

&nbsp; 
Q: Is there a possibility of an alliance with TRS in Telangana?

A: Absolutely not. We may have a tie-up with smaller parties. TRS is the B Team of BJP. They have supported BJP on every issue. They have supported BJP on issues which were not openly supported by their own alliance partners. BJP meanwhile felt that they will make in-roads in Telangana which has not happened. Telangana is a badly governed state and we will on our own strength defeat TRS.

&nbsp;Q: Andhra Pradesh is still a problem area for the Congress. People still blame you for the division of the state. What do you have to say?

A: We came back to power in Punjab after Operation BlueStar. It will take some time in AP, but we will come back. BJP and TDP also participated in the creation of Telangana. Yes, people were angry with us, but they aren’t now as they realise that both BJP and TDP participated in the process of creation of Telangana. We will not align with anyone. We will also not align with Jagan Mohan Reddy. He is arrogant and supports BJP.

BJP took advantage of anti-Islamic sentiments which is prevalent globally. They convinced the diaspora that Congress empowerment of minorities was an appeasement which wasn’t the case.

Madhu Goud Yaskhi is two-time Congress MP from Nizamabad who returned to India in 2004 to successfully contest elections in 2004. Nizamabad is part of the state of Telangana. Yaski looks after Congress Overseas Cell and is Secretary in charge of Karnataka. In an interview with WION, Yaski says that earlier when PM’s went abroad, they went as Indians, but Narendra Modi makes his foreign trips all about his own party. Edited excerpts Q: Of late Congress has shown a lot of interest in reorganising its overseas Indian cell? A: We could see the potential of overseas Indians. They have a lot to contribute. There exists a diaspora impact in India especially in states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Kerala and Gujarat. There is another issue. When MPs would visit foreign countries, we were specifically told by MEA that you represent your country and not the party. It has been changed by Modi. Whenever he meets the Indian diaspora, he toes the party line. Diaspora has been politicised. Diaspora also helped BJP win 2014 elections. Our estimate is that 500 diaspora IT professionals came to Ahmedabad to help BJP in Lok Sabha elections. Q: BJP has the first mover advantage. They are well organised and have functioning units abroad? PM’s interaction with NRIs is also far more frequent than Congress President. A: BJP took advantage of anti-Islamic sentiments which is prevalent globally. They convinced the diaspora that Congress empowerment of minorities was an appeasement which wasn’t the case. I would say that nothing much has been done for the NRIs in this present dispensation. Many NRIs lost money because of DeMo as they could not travel back under the specified time. Even today there is no visa online. Please don’t go on the scale. Rahul Gandhi's tour to the United States was very well received. Q: What are the prospects of Congress Party in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh? A: We are fighting fit in Telangana. We will defeat TRS in the next assembly elections. In Andhra Pradesh, our vote share has gone up from 3 per cent to 12 per cent. There is some resentment over the fact that special status was not accorded to the state. So, we will still play an important role in AP. In Telangana, people don’t hate us. We will come back to power in the state. Q: Is there a possibility of an alliance with TRS in Telangana? A: Absolutely not. We may have a tie-up with smaller parties. TRS is the B Team of BJP. They have supported BJP on every issue. They have supported BJP on issues which were not openly supported by their own alliance partners. BJP meanwhile felt that they will make in-roads in Telangana which has not happened. Telangana is a badly governed state and we will on our own strength defeat TRS. Q: Andhra Pradesh is still a problem area for the Congress. People still blame you for the division of the state. What do you have to say? A: We came back to power in Punjab after Operation BlueStar. It will take some time in AP, but we will come back. BJP and TDP also participated in the creation of Telangana. Yes, people were angry with us, but they aren’t now as they realise that both BJP and TDP participated in the process of creation of Telangana. We will not align with anyone. We will also not align with Jagan Mohan Reddy. He is arrogant and supports BJP.

TRS is the B Team of BJP, no question of alliance: Congress leader Madhu Goud Yaskhi

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-mikepompeo-says-north-korea-sanctions-to-remain-until-complete-denuclearisation-144374">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says North Korea sanctions to remain until complete denuclearisation</a>

Tough sanctions will remain on North Korea until its complete denuclearisation, the US Secretary of State&nbsp;Mike&nbsp;Pompeo said on Thursday, apparently contradicting the North's view that the process agreed at this week's summit would be phased and reciprocal.

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-governments--informal-ban-on-indian-workers-is-a-cause-for-concern-for-india---144365">Maldives government imposes 'informal ban' on work permits to Indians</a>

In a development that can further deteriorate the already fractured relationship between India and &nbsp;Maldives, Male has imposed an informal ban on work permits to Indians.&nbsp;The ban was imposed three months ago.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/un-report-on-jk-is-fallacious-tendentious-and-motivated-india-144344">UN report on J&K is fallacious, tendentious and motivated: India</a>

India today rejected the&nbsp;United Nations report which called&nbsp;for an inquiry into abuses in "Indian-administered Kashmir" as well as "Pakistan-administered Kashmir".

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/jk-terrorists-abduct-indian-army-soldier-from-pulwama-144334">J&K: Terrorists abduct Indian Army soldier from Pulwama</a>

&nbsp;

Terrorists have abducted an Indian Army soldier from&nbsp;Kalampora area in Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K).The soldier named&nbsp;Aurangzeb belongs to&nbsp;&nbsp;4 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry and was posted&nbsp;to&nbsp;44 Rashtriya Rifles.

<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-sc-withdraws-directive-allowing-musharraf-to-file-nomination-papers-after-he-fails-to-appear--144362">Pakistan SC withdraws directive allowing Musharraf to file nomination papers after he fails to appear</a>

Pakistan's Supreme Court on Thursday withdrew a conditional permission for former military ruler Pervez Musharraf to contest elections after he failed to appear in court.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says North Korea sanctions to remain until complete denuclearisation Tough sanctions will remain on North Korea until its complete denuclearisation, the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Thursday, apparently contradicting the North's view that the process agreed at this week's summit would be phased and reciprocal. Maldives government imposes 'informal ban' on work permits to Indians In a development that can further deteriorate the already fractured relationship between India and Maldives, Male has imposed an informal ban on work permits to Indians. The ban was imposed three months ago. UN report on J&K is fallacious, tendentious and motivated: India India today rejected the United Nations report which called for an inquiry into abuses in "Indian-administered Kashmir" as well as "Pakistan-administered Kashmir". J&K: Terrorists abduct Indian Army soldier from Pulwama Terrorists have abducted an Indian Army soldier from Kalampora area in Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K).The soldier named Aurangzeb belongs to 4 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry and was posted to 44 Rashtriya Rifles. Pakistan SC withdraws directive allowing Musharraf to file nomination papers after he fails to appear Pakistan's Supreme Court on Thursday withdrew a conditional permission for former military ruler Pervez Musharraf to contest elections after he failed to appear in court.

News brief: Big stories of the day

While addressing a gathering in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh on Thursday PM Modi said on Thursday that development is the only solution to all kinds of violence and conspiracy.&nbsp

PM Modi's address followed after he inaugurated a slew of projects in the state including the modern extension of the Bhilai project.

"Bhilai not only made steel but also lives, society and the country. This new modern and converted steel plant will now work to strengthen the foundation of New India. You all have experienced how the picture changed after the establishment of the steel plant," the Prime Minister said.

He added that the Bhilai complex built at the cost of about Rs 1,100 crore will act as a pilgrimage centre for technology and technical education for students in the state as well as in the entire country.

Referring to the Forest Rights Act, PM Modi highlighted the work done by his government in the interest of the tribals.

He said, " Considering the interests of tribals, Forest Rights Act has been implemented strictly. Tribal communities have been given the title of more than 20 lakh acres in Chhattisgarh in the last four years".

He also emphasised that the government was working to increase the income of the tribals and also ensure a quality education for them.

"The government is also working on giving quality tribals' education. To raise the level of education among tribal children, Eklavya Vidyalayas are being opened in the country. We are working for them for their bright future," he stated.

He further talked about the Jan Dhan Yojna scheme and said that 130 million poor people have already opened their bank accounts so far in the country.

He also said that the government has constructed more than 37 lakh toilets and 22 lakh poor families have got free gas connections under the Ujjwala Yojana scheme in Chhattisgarh.

"The Gram Swaraj campaign has had very positive effect in the last two months. These campaigns are being run especially in 115 districts of the country which were lagging behind in development. It includes 12 districts of Chhattisgarh," PM Modi said.

He said that the former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision of fast-paced development in the state was carried by the chief minister Raman Singh.

He also highlighted on his government's "unprecedented efforts" at boosting the connectivity of the state. The PM said, "Earlier where there were no roads, now airports are being constructed along with roads".

He said that the Naya Raipur is the country's first greenfield smart city and that it would now serve as an example for smart cities across the country.

He also added that Rs 3,000 was diverted in the state capital for the construction of more hospitals, schools, roads and toilets.

He further informed that air services between Raipur and Jagdalpur have been made operational, while work on BharatNet Phase 2 in the state has begun.

Ahead of the assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, this is PM Modi's second visit to the state in the last two months.

&nbsp

(With inputs from ANI)

PM Modi's address followed after he inaugurated a slew of projects in the state including the modern extension of the Bhilai project

While addressing a gathering in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh on Thursday PM Modi said on Thursday that development is the only solution to all kinds of violence and conspiracy. PM Modi's address followed after he inaugurated a slew of projects in the state including the modern extension of the Bhilai project. "Bhilai not only made steel but also lives, society and the country. This new modern and converted steel plant will now work to strengthen the foundation of New India. You all have experienced how the picture changed after the establishment of the steel plant," the Prime Minister said. He added that the Bhilai complex built at the cost of about Rs 1,100 crore will act as a pilgrimage centre for technology and technical education for students in the state as well as in the entire country. Referring to the Forest Rights Act, PM Modi highlighted the work done by his government in the interest of the tribals. He said, " Considering the interests of tribals, Forest Rights Act has been implemented strictly. Tribal communities have been given the title of more than 20 lakh acres in Chhattisgarh in the last four years". He also emphasised that the government was working to increase the income of the tribals and also ensure a quality education for them. "The government is also working on giving quality tribals' education. To raise the level of education among tribal children, Eklavya Vidyalayas are being opened in the country. We are working for them for their bright future," he stated. He further talked about the Jan Dhan Yojna scheme and said that 130 million poor people have already opened their bank accounts so far in the country. He also said that the government has constructed more than 37 lakh toilets and 22 lakh poor families have got free gas connections under the Ujjwala Yojana scheme in Chhattisgarh. "The Gram Swaraj campaign has had very positive effect in the last two months. These campaigns are being run especially in 115 districts of the country which were lagging behind in development. It includes 12 districts of Chhattisgarh," PM Modi said. He said that the former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's vision of fast-paced development in the state was carried by the chief minister Raman Singh. He also highlighted on his government's "unprecedented efforts" at boosting the connectivity of the state. The PM said, "Earlier where there were no roads, now airports are being constructed along with roads". He said that the Naya Raipur is the country's first greenfield smart city and that it would now serve as an example for smart cities across the country. He also added that Rs 3,000 was diverted in the state capital for the construction of more hospitals, schools, roads and toilets. He further informed that air services between Raipur and Jagdalpur have been made operational, while work on BharatNet Phase 2 in the state has begun. Ahead of the assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, this is PM Modi's second visit to the state in the last two months. (With inputs from ANI)

Answer to violence is 'development': PM Modi in Bhilai

Indian&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;are turning to the international market in search of better returns as the intensifying fight for a bigger share of the world's fastest growing domestic market - where price is king - drives down profits.

While global&nbsp;airlines' profits have been strong since 2015 - though with wide regional variations -Indian carriers are struggling to remain profitable, despite filling nearly 90 percent of their seats and benefiting from a more than doubling of domestic passenger numbers over the last four years.

"It is an incredibly tough domestic market, very price sensitive," said Stephen Barnes, chief financial officer of Singapore&nbsp;Airlines, which operates an&nbsp;Indian carrier, Vistara, in a joint venture with the Tata Group.

"Commanding a premium for a premium product is hard to do. From our perspective, we invested in order to see the business grow internationally. If you look at the results of&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;their performance is better internationally."

Promotions such as $50 one-way tickets on the two-hour flight from Mumbai to Delhi are easy to find and, with&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;expected to take delivery of more than 500 aircraft over the next five years, pressure on fares and profits is increasing.

India&nbsp;is one of the cheapest domestic airline markets in the world, with an average fare of 13 cents per kilometre flown, according to data from travel firm Rome2Rio, less than half the 27 cents per km average in China and the United States.

Airlines&nbsp;including Vistara, SpiceJet Ltd and InterGlobe Aviation Ltd's IndiGo are in talks to buy or lease widebody aircraft as they firm up international growth plans to boost profitability.

&nbsp;

INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

There is huge potential for international travel from&nbsp;India, where the domestic aviation market has grown about 20 per cent annually in recent years.

Only 0.3 per cent of the 1.3 billion population currently travel abroad for a holiday every year, a fraction of the estimated 100 million&nbsp;Indians who could potentially afford to do so, according to an analysis of household income by aviation consultancy, CAPA.

The international market is dominated by foreign carriers but the market share of&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;airlines including Air&nbsp;India&nbsp;and Jet Airways has been climbing, helped by policies that limit access by foreign carriers, and reached about 38 per cent in 2017, up from 31 per cent a decade earlier.

Foreign&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;such as Emirates and Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways have reached the limit of flights into&nbsp;India&nbsp;allowed under bilateral agreements and New Delhi has not extended additional rights, creating an opening for domestic carriers to grow, said Binit Somaia, director for South Asia at CAPA.

"Demand is there, income levels are rising and people want to travel internationally," he said.

Jet Airways is considering launching new flights from Mumbai to Sydney, two sources with knowledge of the matter said, while Vistara is planning to order six Boeing Co 787 aircraft and will expand its narrowbody fleet of Airbus A320neos as it starts international flights, sources have said.

A Jet Airways spokesman said the airline "continuously reviews its fleet and network plan ... to realise greater synergy with its business strategy."

&nbsp;

DOMESTIC COMPETITION

In the domestic market, which provides crucial connections for international flights,&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;have been jockeying for position at a time when one-time leader Air&nbsp;India&nbsp;has been losing market share to rivals with far lower costs, such as IndiGo.

The&nbsp;Indian government last month failed to attract a single bidder by the deadline for its 76 per cent stake sale in the loss-making national carrier.

Revenue per available seat kilometre, a measure combining&nbsp;airfares and seats filled, has been falling at&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;due to stiff competition at a time when the oil price has risen nearly 50 percent in the last year.

IndiGo last month reported a steep fall in quarterly profit due to higher fuel prices and continued pressure on yields, a proxy for&nbsp;airfares.

IndiGo has lifted the proportion of its capacity dedicated to international flights to 15 per cent, from 11 per cent, in the last year and is seeking regulatory approvals needed to operate long-haul flights, Rahul Bhatia, the company's chairman, said during an analyst call.

SpiceJet and IndiGo are the only two listed&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;to post a profit for the last 13 quarters consecutively.

Analysts say SpiceJet has achieved this by maximising its aircraft utilisation and also flying less competitive routes where it can have a better control over fares, helping protect yields.

Even so, it plans to expand its international flights as it starts taking delivery of its Boeing 737 MAX aircraft from August. The planes, which have a range of six hours and can reach destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok, will mainly be deployed on international routes.

Infrastructure constraints at major&nbsp;Indian airports like Mumbai and Delhi, where daytime slots are hard to get, also make going international a better option as&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;can utilise night-time slots, a SpiceJet official told Reuters.

"International is the only way out," the official said.

India is one of the cheapest domestic airline markets in the world, with an average fare of 13 cents per kilometre flown, according to data from travel firm Rome2Rio

Indian airlines are turning to the international market in search of better returns as the intensifying fight for a bigger share of the world's fastest growing domestic market - where price is king - drives down profits. While global airlines' profits have been strong since 2015 - though with wide regional variations -Indian carriers are struggling to remain profitable, despite filling nearly 90 percent of their seats and benefiting from a more than doubling of domestic passenger numbers over the last four years. "It is an incredibly tough domestic market, very price sensitive," said Stephen Barnes, chief financial officer of Singapore Airlines, which operates an Indian carrier, Vistara, in a joint venture with the Tata Group. "Commanding a premium for a premium product is hard to do. From our perspective, we invested in order to see the business grow internationally. If you look at the results of Indian airlines their performance is better internationally." Promotions such as $50 one-way tickets on the two-hour flight from Mumbai to Delhi are easy to find and, with airlines expected to take delivery of more than 500 aircraft over the next five years, pressure on fares and profits is increasing. India is one of the cheapest domestic airline markets in the world, with an average fare of 13 cents per kilometre flown, according to data from travel firm Rome2Rio, less than half the 27 cents per km average in China and the United States. Airlines including Vistara, SpiceJet Ltd and InterGlobe Aviation Ltd's IndiGo are in talks to buy or lease widebody aircraft as they firm up international growth plans to boost profitability. INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES There is huge potential for international travel from India, where the domestic aviation market has grown about 20 per cent annually in recent years. Only 0.3 per cent of the 1.3 billion population currently travel abroad for a holiday every year, a fraction of the estimated 100 million Indians who could potentially afford to do so, according to an analysis of household income by aviation consultancy, CAPA. The international market is dominated by foreign carriers but the market share of Indian airlines including Air India and Jet Airways has been climbing, helped by policies that limit access by foreign carriers, and reached about 38 per cent in 2017, up from 31 per cent a decade earlier. Foreign airlines such as Emirates and Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways have reached the limit of flights into India allowed under bilateral agreements and New Delhi has not extended additional rights, creating an opening for domestic carriers to grow, said Binit Somaia, director for South Asia at CAPA. "Demand is there, income levels are rising and people want to travel internationally," he said. Jet Airways is considering launching new flights from Mumbai to Sydney, two sources with knowledge of the matter said, while Vistara is planning to order six Boeing Co 787 aircraft and will expand its narrowbody fleet of Airbus A320neos as it starts international flights, sources have said. A Jet Airways spokesman said the airline "continuously reviews its fleet and network plan ... to realise greater synergy with its business strategy." DOMESTIC COMPETITION In the domestic market, which provides crucial connections for international flights, airlines have been jockeying for position at a time when one-time leader Air India has been losing market share to rivals with far lower costs, such as IndiGo. The Indian government last month failed to attract a single bidder by the deadline for its 76 per cent stake sale in the loss-making national carrier. Revenue per available seat kilometre, a measure combining airfares and seats filled, has been falling at Indian airlines due to stiff competition at a time when the oil price has risen nearly 50 percent in the last year. IndiGo last month reported a steep fall in quarterly profit due to higher fuel prices and continued pressure on yields, a proxy for airfares. IndiGo has lifted the proportion of its capacity dedicated to international flights to 15 per cent, from 11 per cent, in the last year and is seeking regulatory approvals needed to operate long-haul flights, Rahul Bhatia, the company's chairman, said during an analyst call. SpiceJet and IndiGo are the only two listed Indian airlines to post a profit for the last 13 quarters consecutively. Analysts say SpiceJet has achieved this by maximising its aircraft utilisation and also flying less competitive routes where it can have a better control over fares, helping protect yields. Even so, it plans to expand its international flights as it starts taking delivery of its Boeing 737 MAX aircraft from August. The planes, which have a range of six hours and can reach destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok, will mainly be deployed on international routes. Infrastructure constraints at major Indian airports like Mumbai and Delhi, where daytime slots are hard to get, also make going international a better option as airlines can utilise night-time slots, a SpiceJet official told Reuters. "International is the only way out," the official said.

India airlines spread their wings to escape airfare war at home

The Indian Coast Guard ship Rajkiran and Dornier aircraft on Thursday rescued all the 22 crew members on board Indian flag Container vessel, MV SSL Kolkata which had caught fire Wednesday night.

The Rajkiran ship that reached the area at about 8:30 am was launched from Haldia while the Coast Guard Dornier aircraft was launched from Kolkata.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Merchant Vessel SSL KOLKATA caught fire last night 11 out of 22 crew members rescued by Indian Coast Guard ship Rajkiran from Haldia, rescue operation for remaining crew members underway <a href="https://t.co/FS6KccSSQA">pic.twitter.com/FS6KccSSQA</a>
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The coast guard conducted the rescue operation under bad weather and rough sea condition. It also clarified that there was no spill of fuel as of now.

The container carrier was on a coastal voyage from Krishnapatnam to Kolkata with the crew and 464 containers.

We have successfully rescued all the crew members and they are safe," said Inspector General Kuldeep Singh Sheoran, Coast Guard Commander at Regional Headquarters (North East) in Kolkata.

About 70 per cent of the vessel was on fire when the rescue team reached MV SSL Kolkata.

The fire in the vessel broke out due to explosion in one of the container and gradually spread over.

"All the 22 survivors including the captain of the ship were picked up by the Coast Guard vessel," Coast Guard Commander (NE) Inspector General K S Sheoran said. The crew of the ship was rescued amid rough seas and inclement weather, he added.

(With input&nbspfrom Agencies)

The coast guard conducted the rescue operation under bad weather and rough sea condition. It also clarified that there was no spill of fuel as of now

The Indian Coast Guard ship Rajkiran and Dornier aircraft on Thursday rescued all the 22 crew members on board Indian flag Container vessel, MV SSL Kolkata which had caught fire Wednesday night. The Rajkiran ship that reached the area at about 8:30 am was launched from Haldia while the Coast Guard Dornier aircraft was launched from Kolkata. #WATCH Merchant Vessel SSL KOLKATA caught fire last night 11 out of 22 crew members rescued by Indian Coast Guard ship Rajkiran from Haldia, rescue operation for remaining crew members underway pic.twitter.com/FS6KccSSQA — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 × The coast guard conducted the rescue operation under bad weather and rough sea condition. It also clarified that there was no spill of fuel as of now. The container carrier was on a coastal voyage from Krishnapatnam to Kolkata with the crew and 464 containers. We have successfully rescued all the crew members and they are safe," said Inspector General Kuldeep Singh Sheoran, Coast Guard Commander at Regional Headquarters (North East) in Kolkata. About 70 per cent of the vessel was on fire when the rescue team reached MV SSL Kolkata. The fire in the vessel broke out due to explosion in one of the container and gradually spread over. "All the 22 survivors including the captain of the ship were picked up by the Coast Guard vessel," Coast Guard Commander (NE) Inspector General K S Sheoran said. The crew of the ship was rescued amid rough seas and inclement weather, he added. (With input&nbspfrom Agencies)

Watch: Merchant vessel SSL Kolkata catches fire, all 22 members rescued

A day ahead of his big Eid release- 'Race 3'- Salman Khan revealed the first teaser of Aayush Sharma's debut film Loveratri. Slated to release in October, during the Navratri season, the film marks the launch of Sharma and Warina Hussain in Bollywood. 
 
Directed by Abhiraj Minawal and produced by Salman Khan himself, the story of the film is reportedly based around two individuals who meet and fall in love during the festival of Navratri.&nbsp; 
 
Aayush, who is married to Salman's youngest sister Arpita Khan, has reportedly undergone vigorous training in dance to fit the role.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AvsIErOn83o" width="560"></iframe> 
'Loveratri'&nbsp;is slated to release on 5th October.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The film is slated to release during Navratri season in October.

A day ahead of his big Eid release- 'Race 3'- Salman Khan revealed the first teaser of Aayush Sharma's debut film Loveratri. Slated to release in October, during the Navratri season, the film marks the launch of Sharma and Warina Hussain in Bollywood. Directed by Abhiraj Minawal and produced by Salman Khan himself, the story of the film is reportedly based around two individuals who meet and fall in love during the festival of Navratri. Aayush, who is married to Salman's youngest sister Arpita Khan, has reportedly undergone vigorous training in dance to fit the role. 'Loveratri' is slated to release on 5th October.

'Loveratri' teaser: Salman Khan launches brother-in-law Aayush Sharma in a vibrant love story

All NRI marriages solemnised in India would need to be registered within seven days, the Ministry of Women and Child Development said on Thursday.

If the NRI marriages are not registered within seven days, the passports and visas would not be issued.

Last week, Women and Child Development (WCD) Minister Maneka Gandhi had said that the NRI marriages <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/all-nri-marriages-to-be-registered-within-48-hours-maneka-gandhi-142785">would need to be registered within 48 hours</a>.

The decision for mandatory registration of marriages within seven days was taken on Wednesday after a group of ministers - Gandhi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, met to map out legal solutions for redressing the issues faced by women in NRI marriages.

Officials at the ministry said that the discussions were held for enumerating fine details on ways to resolve the issues related to NRI marriages.

Another proposal discussed was holding the properties of NRI offenders in escrow in case they abscond abandoning their spouse.&nbsp;

Escrow is a legal concept in which a financial instrument or an asset is held by a third party on behalf of two other parties that are in the process of completing a transaction.

The official said the move would require amendment of three legislations- Code of Criminal Procedure, Marriage Act and the Passports Act.

The three ministries were asked to formulate a draft legal amendments to give effect to decisions taken at the meeting.&nbsp;

As of now, there is no time frame to register marriages in India. However, a Law Commission report has recommended that the time limit to register marriages should be restricted to 30 days after which a penalty of Rs 5 per day could be imposed.

The ministry had earlier constituted an Integrated Nodal Agency (INA) with representatives from the ministries of External Affairs, Home Affairs and Law and Justice to look into matrimonial disputes involving Non-Resident Indians (NRI).&nbsp;

According to the recommendation of the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the decisions taken in the INA, look-out circulars are issued as per criteria defined by the MHA, for keeping a watch on arrival or departure of NRI husbands and preventing them from leaving India, the ministry had said.

Last week, Women and Child Development (WCD) Minister Maneka Gandhi had said that the NRI marriages would need to be registered within 48 hours

All NRI marriages solemnised in India would need to be registered within seven days, the Ministry of Women and Child Development said on Thursday. If the NRI marriages are not registered within seven days, the passports and visas would not be issued. Last week, Women and Child Development (WCD) Minister Maneka Gandhi had said that the NRI marriages would need to be registered within 48 hours. The decision for mandatory registration of marriages within seven days was taken on Wednesday after a group of ministers - Gandhi, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, met to map out legal solutions for redressing the issues faced by women in NRI marriages. Officials at the ministry said that the discussions were held for enumerating fine details on ways to resolve the issues related to NRI marriages. Another proposal discussed was holding the properties of NRI offenders in escrow in case they abscond abandoning their spouse. Escrow is a legal concept in which a financial instrument or an asset is held by a third party on behalf of two other parties that are in the process of completing a transaction. The official said the move would require amendment of three legislations- Code of Criminal Procedure, Marriage Act and the Passports Act. The three ministries were asked to formulate a draft legal amendments to give effect to decisions taken at the meeting. As of now, there is no time frame to register marriages in India. However, a Law Commission report has recommended that the time limit to register marriages should be restricted to 30 days after which a penalty of Rs 5 per day could be imposed. The ministry had earlier constituted an Integrated Nodal Agency (INA) with representatives from the ministries of External Affairs, Home Affairs and Law and Justice to look into matrimonial disputes involving Non-Resident Indians (NRI). According to the recommendation of the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the decisions taken in the INA, look-out circulars are issued as per criteria defined by the MHA, for keeping a watch on arrival or departure of NRI husbands and preventing them from leaving India, the ministry had said.

NRI marriages need to be registered within 7 days: Ministry of Women and Child Development

Terrorists have abducted an Indian Army soldier from&nbsp;Kalampora area in Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K).&nbsp;

The soldier named&nbsp;Aurangzeb belongs to&nbsp;&nbsp;4 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry and was posted&nbsp;to&nbsp;44 Rashtriya Rifles.

He was abducted by terrorists from Kalampora area in Pulwama while on leave for Eid.

At about 9 am on Thursday, army men from the unit stopped a car asking the driver to drop Aurangzeb in Shopian, soon after terrorists&nbsp;stopped the vehicle as it approached Kalampora and abducted Aurangzeb.

Police have begun investigating the matter.&nbsp;The Army is also conducting an inquiry into the incident.

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J&K: Terrorists abducted an Army Jawan, Aurangzeb from Pulwama district. He is a resident of Poonch. Police begin investigation in the matter. <a href="https://t.co/h1qCCO1Vjt">pic.twitter.com/h1qCCO1Vjt</a>
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In May last year, a 22-year-old lieutenant with the Rajputana Rifles was kidnapped from Kulgam.&nbsp;

Ummer Fayaz was found the following morning shot in the head and abdomen.&nbsp;

Ummer, a Kashmiri, was home on leave at the time. He had returned home to attend a cousin's wedding when he was&nbsp;kidnapped.&nbsp;

The soldier was identified as Aurangzeb, a resident of Poonch

Terrorists have abducted an Indian Army soldier from Kalampora area in Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K). The soldier named Aurangzeb belongs to 4 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry and was posted to 44 Rashtriya Rifles. He was abducted by terrorists from Kalampora area in Pulwama while on leave for Eid. At about 9 am on Thursday, army men from the unit stopped a car asking the driver to drop Aurangzeb in Shopian, soon after terrorists stopped the vehicle as it approached Kalampora and abducted Aurangzeb. Police have begun investigating the matter. The Army is also conducting an inquiry into the incident. J&K: Terrorists abducted an Army Jawan, Aurangzeb from Pulwama district. He is a resident of Poonch. Police begin investigation in the matter. pic.twitter.com/h1qCCO1Vjt — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 × In May last year, a 22-year-old lieutenant with the Rajputana Rifles was kidnapped from Kulgam. Ummer Fayaz was found the following morning shot in the head and abdomen. Ummer, a Kashmiri, was home on leave at the time. He had returned home to attend a cousin's wedding when he was kidnapped.

J&K: Terrorists abduct Indian Army soldier from Pulwama

In a relief to the Palaniswami government, the Madras Court on Thursday delivered a split verdict on petitions challenging disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs loyal to sidelined leader TTV Dhinakaran.

In the keenly-awaited judgement, Chief Justice Indira Banerjee upheld the September 18 last order of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal disqualifying the MLAs, while Justice M Sundar disagreed with her and struck it down.

"In my opinion, Speaker's decision is not unreasonable," she said.

The senior-most judge after her will decide the judge who would hear the matter afresh, Justice Banerjee said.

She also said status quo would continue till the third judge gave his order.

Justice Sundar in his order said, "I respectfully submit that I disagree with the opinion of the CJ and hereby set aside the order passed by the Speaker."

The split verdict has come as a big relief to the AIADMK government headed by Chief Minister K Palaniswami as any possible threat to its stability has been averted for now.

The bench was passing orders on petitions filed by the 18 MLAs challenging their disqualification by the Speaker under the anti-defection law.

The MLAs were disqualified after they had called on the state governor on August 22 last year expressing lack of confidence in the leadership of Palaniswami and seeking a change of guard.

Their meeting had come a day after then rival factions led by Palaniswami and his now deputy Panneerselvam merged their factions after deposing Dhinaknaran as the AIADMK deputy general secretary amid the intense power struggle in the ruling party after the demise of its supremo Jayalalithaa in December 2016.

A unanimous court ruling adverse to the government would have intensified the power struggle between the Dhinakaran, now chief of Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam, and the ruling party led by top leaders Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam.

In the 234-member assembly, the ruling AIADMK has a strength of 116 MLAs excluding the Speaker but including S Karunaas (Mukkulathor Pulipadai), M Thamimun Ansari (Manithaneya Jananayaga Katchi) and U Thaniyarasu (Tamil Nadu Kongu Ilaignar Peravai), who had won on the ruling party's two leaves symbol in 2016 polls.

While 18 MLAs owing allegiance to Dhinakaran were disqualified, the DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress 8 and the IUML one in the 234-member House.

Dhinakaran got elected from RK Nagar last year and he is the lone independent member of the House.

Dhinakaran, the nephew of deposed party leader V K Sasikala, had been maintaining that the Palaniswami government would not last long.

Opposition DMK has been claiming that with the disqualification of the MLAs, the Palaniswami government had been reduced to a minority.&nbsp

In the keenly-awaited judgement, Chief Justice Indira Banerjee upheld the September 18 last order of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal disqualifying the MLAs

In a relief to the Palaniswami government, the Madras Court on Thursday delivered a split verdict on petitions challenging disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs loyal to sidelined leader TTV Dhinakaran. In the keenly-awaited judgement, Chief Justice Indira Banerjee upheld the September 18 last order of Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P Dhanapal disqualifying the MLAs, while Justice M Sundar disagreed with her and struck it down. "In my opinion, Speaker's decision is not unreasonable," she said. The senior-most judge after her will decide the judge who would hear the matter afresh, Justice Banerjee said. She also said status quo would continue till the third judge gave his order. Justice Sundar in his order said, "I respectfully submit that I disagree with the opinion of the CJ and hereby set aside the order passed by the Speaker." The split verdict has come as a big relief to the AIADMK government headed by Chief Minister K Palaniswami as any possible threat to its stability has been averted for now. The bench was passing orders on petitions filed by the 18 MLAs challenging their disqualification by the Speaker under the anti-defection law. The MLAs were disqualified after they had called on the state governor on August 22 last year expressing lack of confidence in the leadership of Palaniswami and seeking a change of guard. Their meeting had come a day after then rival factions led by Palaniswami and his now deputy Panneerselvam merged their factions after deposing Dhinaknaran as the AIADMK deputy general secretary amid the intense power struggle in the ruling party after the demise of its supremo Jayalalithaa in December 2016. A unanimous court ruling adverse to the government would have intensified the power struggle between the Dhinakaran, now chief of Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam, and the ruling party led by top leaders Palaniswami and O Panneerselvam. In the 234-member assembly, the ruling AIADMK has a strength of 116 MLAs excluding the Speaker but including S Karunaas (Mukkulathor Pulipadai), M Thamimun Ansari (Manithaneya Jananayaga Katchi) and U Thaniyarasu (Tamil Nadu Kongu Ilaignar Peravai), who had won on the ruling party's two leaves symbol in 2016 polls. While 18 MLAs owing allegiance to Dhinakaran were disqualified, the DMK has 89 MLAs, its allies Congress 8 and the IUML one in the 234-member House. Dhinakaran got elected from RK Nagar last year and he is the lone independent member of the House. Dhinakaran, the nephew of deposed party leader V K Sasikala, had been maintaining that the Palaniswami government would not last long. Opposition DMK has been claiming that with the disqualification of the MLAs, the Palaniswami government had been reduced to a minority.

Tamil Nadu: High Court delivers split verdict on disqualification of 18 AIADMK MLAs

The annual Mountain Echoes literary festival, in its ninth edition, will celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan.&nbsp

An initiative of the India-Bhutan Foundation and Indian literary agency, Siyahi, the festival that begins on August 23 in Thimphu, will pay tribute to the rich cultural ties between the two nations.

The three-day festival will celebrate untouched beauty, unexplored ideas and unstoppable voices from the heart of the Himalayas, and focus on subjects like spirituality and philosophy, performing arts, environmental conservation, food, as well as film and theatre, among others.&nbsp

The inaugural session will see General V Namgyel, Bhutan's ambassador to India and Jaideep Sarkar, India's Ambassador to Bhutan, in conversation with Dasho Chewang Rinzin, Deputy Chamberlain to his Majesty the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, leading a discourse on 50 years of friendship between India and Bhutan.&nbsp

The festival will also see sessions by Andrew Quintman, a scholar of Buddhism in Tibet, authors and environmentalists Daniel C Taylor and Dave Goulson, celebrated spoken word poet Sarah Kay, renowned Indian singer Usha Uthup, and Indian actors and theatre veterans Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah.&nbsp

Other prominent speakers will include Nilanjana Roy, author of "The Wildings", Kunzang Choden, Bhutan's first woman writer to write an English novel, L Somi Roy, author of "Binodini: A Photographic Memoir", Chador Wangmo, author of various illustrated children's books, Kezang Dorji, one of Bhutan's most loved rappers, Dechen Roder, director of "Honeygiver Among the Dogs", and actress Tandin Bidha.

"Mountain Echoes, the Bhutan Literary Festival, is an exuberant celebration of cultural connectivities, resonating with the joys of books and cinema, the shared narratives of music and folklore , food and sport, as well as deep spiritual perspectives, and the challenges of our changing world.&nbsp

"This year, we also have a special and important focus honoring the strong ties between India and Bhutan in their 50th year of diplomatic relations," Namita Gokhale, founder and co-director of the festival, said.&nbsp

This year the festival will combine the breathtaking locales of Bhutan with its cultural prowess.

"The niche festival will spark the imagination of both local and global audiences through a diverse range of electrifying conversations," Tshering Tashi, eminent Bhutanese author and festival co-director, said.&nbsp

The festival will also explore global and locally relevant subjects related to natural history, travel and poetry, including a tribute to 50 years of the Beatles in India, amongst others. 
It will come to a close on August 25.&nbsp

An initiative of the India-Bhutan Foundation and Indian literary agency, Siyahi, the festival that begins on August 23 in Thimphu, will pay tribute to the rich cultural ties between the two nations

The annual Mountain Echoes literary festival, in its ninth edition, will celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan. An initiative of the India-Bhutan Foundation and Indian literary agency, Siyahi, the festival that begins on August 23 in Thimphu, will pay tribute to the rich cultural ties between the two nations. The three-day festival will celebrate untouched beauty, unexplored ideas and unstoppable voices from the heart of the Himalayas, and focus on subjects like spirituality and philosophy, performing arts, environmental conservation, food, as well as film and theatre, among others. The inaugural session will see General V Namgyel, Bhutan's ambassador to India and Jaideep Sarkar, India's Ambassador to Bhutan, in conversation with Dasho Chewang Rinzin, Deputy Chamberlain to his Majesty the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, leading a discourse on 50 years of friendship between India and Bhutan. The festival will also see sessions by Andrew Quintman, a scholar of Buddhism in Tibet, authors and environmentalists Daniel C Taylor and Dave Goulson, celebrated spoken word poet Sarah Kay, renowned Indian singer Usha Uthup, and Indian actors and theatre veterans Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah. Other prominent speakers will include Nilanjana Roy, author of "The Wildings", Kunzang Choden, Bhutan's first woman writer to write an English novel, L Somi Roy, author of "Binodini: A Photographic Memoir", Chador Wangmo, author of various illustrated children's books, Kezang Dorji, one of Bhutan's most loved rappers, Dechen Roder, director of "Honeygiver Among the Dogs", and actress Tandin Bidha. "Mountain Echoes, the Bhutan Literary Festival, is an exuberant celebration of cultural connectivities, resonating with the joys of books and cinema, the shared narratives of music and folklore , food and sport, as well as deep spiritual perspectives, and the challenges of our changing world. "This year, we also have a special and important focus honoring the strong ties between India and Bhutan in their 50th year of diplomatic relations," Namita Gokhale, founder and co-director of the festival, said. This year the festival will combine the breathtaking locales of Bhutan with its cultural prowess. "The niche festival will spark the imagination of both local and global audiences through a diverse range of electrifying conversations," Tshering Tashi, eminent Bhutanese author and festival co-director, said. The festival will also explore global and locally relevant subjects related to natural history, travel and poetry, including a tribute to 50 years of the Beatles in India, amongst others. It will come to a close on August 25.

9th Mountain Echoes Lit Fest to celebrate 50 years of India- Bhutan ties

India today rejected the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/jk-terrorists-abduct-indian-army-soldier-from-pulwama-144334">United Nations report which called </a>for an inquiry into abuses in "Indian-administered Kashmir" as well as "Pakistan-administered Kashmir".&nbsp

India said the UN report on human rights violation in Kashmir was "fallacious, tendentious and motivated". UN report on Kashmir violates India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the ministry of external affairs said.

In a first of its kind report, the UN said there was an urgent need to address the past and ongoing human rights violations, "any resolution to the political situation in Kashmir should entail a commitment to ending the cycles of violence and accountability for past and current human rights violations."

Specifically named "Report on the Situation of Human Rights in Kashmir: Developments in the Indian State of J-K from June 2016 to April 2018, and General Human Rights Concerns in Azad J-K and Gilgit-Baltistan", it noted there were a variety of "armed groups operating" in the&nbspIndian state of J&K.

"Despite the Government of Pakistan's assertions of denial of any support to these groups, experts believe that Pakistan's military continues to support their operations across the Line of Control in Indian-Administered Kashmir," the report said. &nbsp

It said that there was documented evidence of these groups committing human right abuses, including kidnappings and killings of civilians.

The report said, "the people on both sides of the Line of Control have been detrimentally impacted and suffer from limitations or denial of a range of human rights."

The report asked for urgent repealing of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1990 and to "immediately remove the requirement for prior central government permission to prosecute security forces personnel accused of human rights violations in civilian courts."

It said that there was documented evidence of these groups committing human right abuses, including kidnappings and killings of civilians.

India today rejected the United Nations report which called for an inquiry into abuses in "Indian-administered Kashmir" as well as "Pakistan-administered Kashmir". India said the UN report on human rights violation in Kashmir was "fallacious, tendentious and motivated". UN report on Kashmir violates India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, the ministry of external affairs said. In a first of its kind report, the UN said there was an urgent need to address the past and ongoing human rights violations, "any resolution to the political situation in Kashmir should entail a commitment to ending the cycles of violence and accountability for past and current human rights violations." Specifically named "Report on the Situation of Human Rights in Kashmir: Developments in the Indian State of J-K from June 2016 to April 2018, and General Human Rights Concerns in Azad J-K and Gilgit-Baltistan", it noted there were a variety of "armed groups operating" in the&nbspIndian state of J&K. "Despite the Government of Pakistan's assertions of denial of any support to these groups, experts believe that Pakistan's military continues to support their operations across the Line of Control in Indian-Administered Kashmir," the report said. It said that there was documented evidence of these groups committing human right abuses, including kidnappings and killings of civilians. The report said, "the people on both sides of the Line of Control have been detrimentally impacted and suffer from limitations or denial of a range of human rights." The report asked for urgent repealing of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1990 and to "immediately remove the requirement for prior central government permission to prosecute security forces personnel accused of human rights violations in civilian courts."

UN report on J&K is fallacious, tendentious and motivated: India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the modernised extension of the Bhilai Steel plant in Chhattisgarh on Thursday.

The Prime Minister held a roadshow in Bhilai prior to his visit to the Steel Plant, while he also inaugurated the Integrated Command and Control Centre in Naya Raipur.

According to an official release, "The modernisation includes installation of cutting-edge technologies for improvement in productivity, yield, quality, cost competitiveness, energy efficiency and environmental protection.

"He is also slated to lay the foundation stone for the permanent campus of Indian Institue of Technology (IIT) Bhilai.

Additionally, he will unveil the commencement of phase-2 of BharatNet (Bharat Broadband Network Limited).

"The BharatNet project envisages connecting Gram Panchayats with an underground optical fibre network," the official release read.

The Prime Minister will inaugurate air services between Jagdalpur and Raipur and will also distribute laptops, certificates, and cheques etc. to beneficiaries under various schemes.

This is Prime Minister Modi`s second visit to Chhattisgarh in the last two months.The visit comes ahead of the assembly elections scheduled to be held in the state later this year.

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According to an official release, 'The modernisation includes installation of cutting-edge technologies for improvement in productivity, yield, quality, cost competitiveness, energy efficiency and environmental protection

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the modernised extension of the Bhilai Steel plant in Chhattisgarh on Thursday. The Prime Minister held a roadshow in Bhilai prior to his visit to the Steel Plant, while he also inaugurated the Integrated Command and Control Centre in Naya Raipur. According to an official release, "The modernisation includes installation of cutting-edge technologies for improvement in productivity, yield, quality, cost competitiveness, energy efficiency and environmental protection. "He is also slated to lay the foundation stone for the permanent campus of Indian Institue of Technology (IIT) Bhilai. Additionally, he will unveil the commencement of phase-2 of BharatNet (Bharat Broadband Network Limited). "The BharatNet project envisages connecting Gram Panchayats with an underground optical fibre network," the official release read. The Prime Minister will inaugurate air services between Jagdalpur and Raipur and will also distribute laptops, certificates, and cheques etc. to beneficiaries under various schemes. This is Prime Minister Modi`s second visit to Chhattisgarh in the last two months.The visit comes ahead of the assembly elections scheduled to be held in the state later this year.

PM Modi inaugurates Bhilai Steel Plant's extension in Chhattisgarh

Several flight&nbsp;operations were suspended following the dust storm in Chandigarh causing the low visibility news agency ANI reported on Thursday.

ANI further reported that Air India flight bound for Chandigarh flying from Mumbai was left stranded at Delhi airport due to the sandstorm.

The meteorological department, however, has said that that the situation would improve only by Friday afternoon.

"No flight landed or took off from Chandigarh (airport) until today afternoon due to bad weather," a Chandigarh International Airport Limited official was quoted as saying by PTI.

The weather department here said that a ground-level dust storm in Rajasthan, with the wind, speeds up to 40 kmph, had led to a spike in the levels of coarse particles in the air in most parts of Haryana and Punjab, including Chandigarh, since yesterday.

Director of Chandigarh's MeT Department Surinder Paul told PTI that a western disturbance approaching the region was likely to clear the air.

"A western disturbance is approaching the region and the dusty weather should dissipate by tomorrow afternoon," Paul said.

The northern part of India including Haryana, Rajasthan and Punjab is witnessing dust storms from past two days.

On Wednesday, the mercury hit 46.2 degrees Celsius in Punjab. Heatwave also prevailed in most part of the state.

The Patiala recorded the hottest day with 46.2 temperature while in Ludhiana the temperature was recorded at 43.1.

According to reports, thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected in an upcoming week.

(With inputs from PTI)

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Flight operations suspended at Chandigarh Airport due to poor visibility following dust storm.
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Air India Mumbai-Chandigarh flight stranded at Delhi airport due to sandstorm at Chandigarh.
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The meteorological department, however, has said that that the situation would improve only by Friday afternoon

Several flight operations were suspended following the dust storm in Chandigarh causing the low visibility news agency ANI reported on Thursday. ANI further reported that Air India flight bound for Chandigarh flying from Mumbai was left stranded at Delhi airport due to the sandstorm. The meteorological department, however, has said that that the situation would improve only by Friday afternoon. "No flight landed or took off from Chandigarh (airport) until today afternoon due to bad weather," a Chandigarh International Airport Limited official was quoted as saying by PTI. The weather department here said that a ground-level dust storm in Rajasthan, with the wind, speeds up to 40 kmph, had led to a spike in the levels of coarse particles in the air in most parts of Haryana and Punjab, including Chandigarh, since yesterday. Director of Chandigarh's MeT Department Surinder Paul told PTI that a western disturbance approaching the region was likely to clear the air. "A western disturbance is approaching the region and the dusty weather should dissipate by tomorrow afternoon," Paul said. The northern part of India including Haryana, Rajasthan and Punjab is witnessing dust storms from past two days. On Wednesday, the mercury hit 46.2 degrees Celsius in Punjab. Heatwave also prevailed in most part of the state. The Patiala recorded the hottest day with 46.2 temperature while in Ludhiana the temperature was recorded at 43.1. According to reports, thunderstorms and gusty winds are expected in an upcoming week. (With inputs from PTI) Flight operations suspended at Chandigarh Airport due to poor visibility following dust storm. — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 × Air India Mumbai-Chandigarh flight stranded at Delhi airport due to sandstorm at Chandigarh. — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 ×

Several flights were suspended in Chandigarh due to low visibillity

Absconding diamantaire and PNB fraud accused Nirav Modi is reported to have fled London for Brussels.&nbsp;

The media had flashed the news that Nirav Modi had allegedly fled to the UK, where he is reportedly claiming political asylum, the Financial Times reported on Sunday, citing Indian and British officials.

However, now it is reported that he may have left London either on Tuesday or Wednesday for Brussels.

The diamond merchant, wanted in India's biggest-ever banking scam, is said to be travelling in and out of the UK freely, possibly on a Singapore passport, not an Indian one.&nbsp;

A non-bailable warrant was issued against Nirav Modi and 10 other accused, including his family members, in the case related to the fraud, after taking cognisance of a charge sheet filed against them by the ED last month.

The Ministry of External Affairs told the FT that the Indian government was waiting for that country’s law enforcement agencies to approach them before pushing for an extradition, which had thus far not happened. The Enforcement Directorate has also issued summons to diamantaire Nirav Modi and his family members to join the investigations.

Nirav Modi is reported to have left London either on Tuesday or Wednesday. He was reportedly claiming political asylum in England

Absconding diamantaire and PNB fraud accused Nirav Modi is reported to have fled London for Brussels. The media had flashed the news that Nirav Modi had allegedly fled to the UK, where he is reportedly claiming political asylum, the Financial Times reported on Sunday, citing Indian and British officials. However, now it is reported that he may have left London either on Tuesday or Wednesday for Brussels. The diamond merchant, wanted in India's biggest-ever banking scam, is said to be travelling in and out of the UK freely, possibly on a Singapore passport, not an Indian one. A non-bailable warrant was issued against Nirav Modi and 10 other accused, including his family members, in the case related to the fraud, after taking cognisance of a charge sheet filed against them by the ED last month. The Ministry of External Affairs told the FT that the Indian government was waiting for that country’s law enforcement agencies to approach them before pushing for an extradition, which had thus far not happened. The Enforcement Directorate has also issued summons to diamantaire Nirav Modi and his family members to join the investigations.

PNB scam: Nirav Modi reportedly flees London for Brussels

At least four people have died as heavy rain continued to pound Kozhikode district triggering multiple landslides in the hilly regions of the district.

Incessant rain triggered landslips at many places, including Kakkayam, Pulluramppara, Kattippara, Karinchola and Chamal areas of the rural belts of the district. Unconfirmed reports said 13 people are missing from these regions and a search operation was on to trace them.

The Thamarassery Police in Kozhikode district said that the bodies of four persons who died in landslides at 5 am on Thursday have been recovered.&nbsp

Traffic on the Kozhikode-Mysore-Kollegal Highway was affected after a tree fell on the Thamarassery Ghat road. Vehicles have been diverted via the alternative Kuttiyadi road to reach Kozhikode. Similarly, traffic was disrupted after flooding at Nellamkandi near Koduvally.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Massive flooding in Kozikhode's Kattippara following incessant rain. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> <a href="https://t.co/fK1wTjvBnW">pic.twitter.com/fK1wTjvBnW</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>: Severe water-logging in parts of Kozhikode following heavy rainfall in the city <a href="https://t.co/lG7neZnf4T">pic.twitter.com/lG7neZnf4T</a>
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&nbsp

The deceased have been identified as Bilna Sherin, 9, daughter of Abdul Saleem, Md Shahbaz, 3, son of Abdul Saleem (both siblings), Md Jazin, 5, son of Jaffer and 60-year-old Raheeman. All were kin.&nbsp

They were residents of Karinchola House in Kattippara, police said. A search and rescue operation is underway, the authorities informed Mirror.

The Thamarassery Police in Kozhikode district said that the bodies of four persons who died in landslides at 5 am on Thursday have been recovered.

At least four people have died as heavy rain continued to pound Kozhikode district triggering multiple landslides in the hilly regions of the district. Incessant rain triggered landslips at many places, including Kakkayam, Pulluramppara, Kattippara, Karinchola and Chamal areas of the rural belts of the district. Unconfirmed reports said 13 people are missing from these regions and a search operation was on to trace them. The Thamarassery Police in Kozhikode district said that the bodies of four persons who died in landslides at 5 am on Thursday have been recovered. Traffic on the Kozhikode-Mysore-Kollegal Highway was affected after a tree fell on the Thamarassery Ghat road. Vehicles have been diverted via the alternative Kuttiyadi road to reach Kozhikode. Similarly, traffic was disrupted after flooding at Nellamkandi near Koduvally. #WATCH: Massive flooding in Kozikhode's Kattippara following incessant rain. #Kerala pic.twitter.com/fK1wTjvBnW — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 × #Kerala: Severe water-logging in parts of Kozhikode following heavy rainfall in the city pic.twitter.com/lG7neZnf4T — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 × The deceased have been identified as Bilna Sherin, 9, daughter of Abdul Saleem, Md Shahbaz, 3, son of Abdul Saleem (both siblings), Md Jazin, 5, son of Jaffer and 60-year-old Raheeman. All were kin. They were residents of Karinchola House in Kattippara, police said. A search and rescue operation is underway, the authorities informed Mirror.

Four killed due to heavy rains, landslides in Kozhikode district 

'Lust Stories'- Netflix India's new anthology film sure does grab eyeballs for its title. But when you look deeper into the myriad characters, the four stories are actually about four flawed women and their tryst with lust.&nbsp; 
Directed by four filmmakers- Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar, Dibakar Banerji and Karan Johar- the four short stories have lust in the backdrop of each of the stories but in reality give out a strong message on society, class divide and one's own psyche. 
 
In Anurag Kashyap's story, Radhika Apte plays a conflicted personality called Kalindi. She is a college teacher who is in an open marriage. On one drunken night, Kalindi sleeps with her student, played by Akash Thosar of 'Sairat' fame. And while the next morning she is convinced that it was just that - and even compels her student to record a statement that it was consensual, she becomes an obsessive monster who just can't leave the poor guy alone. In between the stalking him and his date, she can be seen speaking about her inner feelings to an imaginary shrink or maybe to herself. The camera never really reveals the listener, but the monologues do reveal how complex and confused Apte's character is about love, lust and life.

<img alt="lust stories 3.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/lust%20stories%203.jpg" width="770" /> 
 
Unlike Kalindi, Sudha (Bhumi Pednekar) in Zoya Akhtar's film isn't confused about her status in her employers'life. A bachelor, (Neil Bhooplam) he often has sex with his house help Sudha. While she may have control over him on the bed, she knows what her place in his household. Akhtar explains the humdrum of city life without too many dialogues, but thereby brilliantly explaining the stark class divide between the lead couple of her story.&nbsp;

<img alt="lust stories 1.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/lust%20stories%201.jpg" width="770" /> 
 
In Dibakara Banerji's story, the woman Reena (the ever so charming Manisha Koirala) is a woman of few words but someone who knows how to control the two men in her life. On a weekend getaway with her lover (Jaideep Ahlwat), Reena's blissful vacation is disrupted by her self-centered, control freak husband (Sanjay Kapoor) who also happens to her lover's best friend. And while the men skirt around the issue at hand, it is Reena, the bored housewife having an affair outside her marriage, who takes charge and gets her sweet, subtle revenge.&nbsp; 
 
Perhaps the most in-your-face story on lust is delivered by Karan Johar and predictably so. Johar's story is of new bride Megha(Kiara Advani in a refreshing act) who never finds any sexual satisfaction from her over-enthusiastic, naive husband Paras (played by the brilliant Vicky Kaushal). Paras is a man of five thrusts literally who never understands the concept of giving any kind of pleasure to his wife while making love. So Megha decides to take things in her own hand which ultimately has some hilarious consequences. Now, Johar always has had the ability to laugh at himself and here too uses an age-old&nbsp;popular 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham' theme song in the most convoluted situation- you will never see that song in the same way after watch 'Lust Stories'.&nbsp;

<img alt="lust stories 4_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/lust%20stories%204_0.jpg" width="770" />

The actors in all of the four films are pitch perfect. Radhika Apte, as the confused, conflicted Kalindi is a scene stealer like always. Much like her student, you will be left exasperated and slightly amused by her antics. Manisha Koirala brings back nostalgia as&nbsp;she plays the ice -cold, calm Reena to perfection. Just hope we get to see more of her on the big screen from now on. Zoya Kahtar's leading lady, Bhumi Pednekar emotes through her eyes. She barely has two lines in the film, but with just through her expressions, she plays Sudha - the housemaid with momentary dreams in her eyes and ultimate realisation of her place in the social strata brilliantly.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-cinema-halls-will-always-stay-despite-online-video-streaming-platforms-anurag-kashyap-144189">Also read: Anurag Kashyap on 'Lust Stories' and the future of cinema halls in the digital age</a>

While the film boasts of formidable actors, who have in the past proved that they are dependable names, it is three-films old Kiara Advani in Karan Johar's story who is a revelation. Kiara plays the unapologetic new bride Medha and looks her part,&nbsp;playing the woman who never really finds any kind of satisfaction from her over-enthusiastic husband. There is a certain glint of sarcasm in her eyes as she quietly observes her husband's buffoonery.&nbsp; 
 
Among the men, Jaideep Ahlawat and Vicky Kaushal stand out distinctly as the inept, unaware, weak men to their strong women in life. Vicky Kaushal is endearing as the fumbling, inadequate husband who never really gets his wife. It's amazing to see the actor portray such a different character from what he has played earlier. 2018 is clearly turning out to be Kaushal's year- and rightfully so.&nbsp;

<img alt="lust stroies 2.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/lust%20stroies%202.jpg" width="770" /> 
 
Ultimately, 'Lust Stories' makes for a compelling watch. Between the cocky lines, between the thrusts,&nbsp;secret romances and mindless banters, it gives a out a message loud and clear- that a woman often has to take control of things to find her own happiness.&nbsp;

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Watch it for the incredible women, watch it for their incredible stories.&nbsp;

'Lust stories' will be available for streaming on Netflix from June 15th.&nbsp;

Four directors come together to tell stories of four different women.

'Lust Stories'- Netflix India's new anthology film sure does grab eyeballs for its title. But when you look deeper into the myriad characters, the four stories are actually about four flawed women and their tryst with lust. Directed by four filmmakers- Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar, Dibakar Banerji and Karan Johar- the four short stories have lust in the backdrop of each of the stories but in reality give out a strong message on society, class divide and one's own psyche. In Anurag Kashyap's story, Radhika Apte plays a conflicted personality called Kalindi. She is a college teacher who is in an open marriage. On one drunken night, Kalindi sleeps with her student, played by Akash Thosar of 'Sairat' fame. And while the next morning she is convinced that it was just that - and even compels her student to record a statement that it was consensual, she becomes an obsessive monster who just can't leave the poor guy alone. In between the stalking him and his date, she can be seen speaking about her inner feelings to an imaginary shrink or maybe to herself. The camera never really reveals the listener, but the monologues do reveal how complex and confused Apte's character is about love, lust and life. Unlike Kalindi, Sudha (Bhumi Pednekar) in Zoya Akhtar's film isn't confused about her status in her employers'life. A bachelor, (Neil Bhooplam) he often has sex with his house help Sudha. While she may have control over him on the bed, she knows what her place in his household. Akhtar explains the humdrum of city life without too many dialogues, but thereby brilliantly explaining the stark class divide between the lead couple of her story. In Dibakara Banerji's story, the woman Reena (the ever so charming Manisha Koirala) is a woman of few words but someone who knows how to control the two men in her life. On a weekend getaway with her lover (Jaideep Ahlwat), Reena's blissful vacation is disrupted by her self-centered, control freak husband (Sanjay Kapoor) who also happens to her lover's best friend. And while the men skirt around the issue at hand, it is Reena, the bored housewife having an affair outside her marriage, who takes charge and gets her sweet, subtle revenge. Perhaps the most in-your-face story on lust is delivered by Karan Johar and predictably so. Johar's story is of new bride Megha(Kiara Advani in a refreshing act) who never finds any sexual satisfaction from her over-enthusiastic, naive husband Paras (played by the brilliant Vicky Kaushal). Paras is a man of five thrusts literally who never understands the concept of giving any kind of pleasure to his wife while making love. So Megha decides to take things in her own hand which ultimately has some hilarious consequences. Now, Johar always has had the ability to laugh at himself and here too uses an age-old popular 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham' theme song in the most convoluted situation- you will never see that song in the same way after watch 'Lust Stories'. The actors in all of the four films are pitch perfect. Radhika Apte, as the confused, conflicted Kalindi is a scene stealer like always. Much like her student, you will be left exasperated and slightly amused by her antics. Manisha Koirala brings back nostalgia as she plays the ice -cold, calm Reena to perfection. Just hope we get to see more of her on the big screen from now on. Zoya Kahtar's leading lady, Bhumi Pednekar emotes through her eyes. She barely has two lines in the film, but with just through her expressions, she plays Sudha - the housemaid with momentary dreams in her eyes and ultimate realisation of her place in the social strata brilliantly. Also read: Anurag Kashyap on 'Lust Stories' and the future of cinema halls in the digital age While the film boasts of formidable actors, who have in the past proved that they are dependable names, it is three-films old Kiara Advani in Karan Johar's story who is a revelation. Kiara plays the unapologetic new bride Medha and looks her part, playing the woman who never really finds any kind of satisfaction from her over-enthusiastic husband. There is a certain glint of sarcasm in her eyes as she quietly observes her husband's buffoonery. Among the men, Jaideep Ahlawat and Vicky Kaushal stand out distinctly as the inept, unaware, weak men to their strong women in life. Vicky Kaushal is endearing as the fumbling, inadequate husband who never really gets his wife. It's amazing to see the actor portray such a different character from what he has played earlier. 2018 is clearly turning out to be Kaushal's year- and rightfully so. Ultimately, 'Lust Stories' makes for a compelling watch. Between the cocky lines, between the thrusts, secret romances and mindless banters, it gives a out a message loud and clear- that a woman often has to take control of things to find her own happiness. Watch it for the incredible women, watch it for their incredible stories. 'Lust stories' will be available for streaming on Netflix from June 15th.

'Lust Stories': The film is a lot more than the four-letter word and thank god for that

The Delhi-NCR region continued to be covered by a layer of dust for the third day running, with pollution levels worse than severe on the air quality index.&nbsp

An AQI between 0-50 is considered "Good", 51-100 "Satisfactory", 101-200 "Moderate", 201-300 "Poor", 301-400 "Very Poor", and 401-500 "Severe".

According to the CPCB, the air quality index - a measurement of the concentration of toxic particulate matter in the air - at several places in Delhi remained beyond the 500-mark, with east Delhi's Anand Vihar area recording a PM10 level of 929 and PM2.5 level of 301 this morning.

The dust currently hovering over the capital is being blamed on dust storms originating in Rajasthan. The dust makes the summer heat worse in Delhi because it stops warm air from escaping.&nbsp

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a>: Rajasthan's Bikaner affected due to haze and dusty weather. <a href="https://t.co/WeXQ9Rl3WT">pic.twitter.com/WeXQ9Rl3WT</a>
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Air India Mumbai-Chandigarh flight stranded at Delhi airport due to sandstorm at Chandigarh.
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Flight operations suspended at Chandigarh Airport due to poor visibility following dust storm.
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he PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10mm) was beyond severe at 796 in Delhi-NCR and 830 in Delhi particularly, leading to hazy conditions.&nbsp

The environment ministry has said the current conditions will continue for another 3-4 days.&nbsp

News reports quoted CPCB members as saying people should stay indoors while the current conditions prevail.&nbsp

The environment ministry meanwhile has alerted construction agencies, municipal corporations and Delhi Pollution Control Committee to ensure water sprinkling.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)

The dust currently hovering over the capital is being blamed on dust storms originating in Rajasthan. The dust makes the summer heat worse in Delhi because it stops warm air from escaping

The Delhi-NCR region continued to be covered by a layer of dust for the third day running, with pollution levels worse than severe on the air quality index. An AQI between 0-50 is considered "Good", 51-100 "Satisfactory", 101-200 "Moderate", 201-300 "Poor", 301-400 "Very Poor", and 401-500 "Severe". According to the CPCB, the air quality index - a measurement of the concentration of toxic particulate matter in the air - at several places in Delhi remained beyond the 500-mark, with east Delhi's Anand Vihar area recording a PM10 level of 929 and PM2.5 level of 301 this morning. The dust currently hovering over the capital is being blamed on dust storms originating in Rajasthan. The dust makes the summer heat worse in Delhi because it stops warm air from escaping. #Visuals: Rajasthan's Bikaner affected due to haze and dusty weather. pic.twitter.com/WeXQ9Rl3WT — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 × Air India Mumbai-Chandigarh flight stranded at Delhi airport due to sandstorm at Chandigarh. — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 × Flight operations suspended at Chandigarh Airport due to poor visibility following dust storm. — ANI (@ANI) June 14, 2018 × he PM10 level (presence of particles with diameter less than 10mm) was beyond severe at 796 in Delhi-NCR and 830 in Delhi particularly, leading to hazy conditions. The environment ministry has said the current conditions will continue for another 3-4 days. News reports quoted CPCB members as saying people should stay indoors while the current conditions prevail. The environment ministry meanwhile has alerted construction agencies, municipal corporations and Delhi Pollution Control Committee to ensure water sprinkling. (With inputs from PTI)

Delhi covered by layer of dust for 3rd day, conditions to remain for 3-4 days

Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan are here to give you feels of Karan Arjun when the two starred in the film as brothers and became one of the biggest hit onscreen sibling jodi in Bollywood. Releasing the Zero teaser, a day in advance than planned -- Shah Rukh and Salman offer double bonanza to those who wanted to see their pairing on the big screen again.&nbsp;

Calling it an Eid special teaser, Salman Khan enters the frame to introduce the character of Shah Rukh Khan in the film -- who happens to play the lead in the film. Shah Rukh’s name in the film is Bauua Singh.&nbsp;

The teaser begins with the voice over from Javed Jaffery at a dance competition. Shah Rukh enters the frame to only be followed by Salman. The two then dance and brighten up the stage.&nbsp;

It was first said that the teaser will release on Eid and that it will be attached to Salman’s film Race 3 that is scheduled to release on June 15.&nbsp;

Interestingly in the teaser, Shah Rukh wears a t-shirt with Katrina Kaif’s face printed on it. Apart from Shah Rukh and Katrina Kaif, the film also stars Anushka Sharma.&nbsp;

Earlier, Shah Rukh shared a selfie with director Anand on Thursday morning as they waited to share the teaser. Shah Rukh wrote: “Waiting for the link to reach us so that we can put the Zero Teaser out. @aanandlrai & me waiting on the streets of America to wish Eid to everyone. Just a few moments more!!! #ZeroCelebratesEid.”

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Waiting for the link to reach us so that we can put the Zero Teaser out. <a href="https://twitter.com/aanandlrai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aanandlrai</a> & me waiting on the streets of America to wish Eid to everyone. Just a few moments more!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZeroCelebratesEid?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZeroCelebratesEid</a> <a href="https://t.co/ps2hji0PGb">pic.twitter.com/ps2hji0PGb</a>
— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk/status/1007140632953909248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Zero has been directed by Aanand L Rai and is slated to release on December 21.

Watch the teaser here:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/89aTDByJTz4" width="970"></iframe>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The two Khans call the teaser of the film an Eid surprise for their fans.

Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan are here to give you feels of Karan Arjun when the two starred in the film as brothers and became one of the biggest hit onscreen sibling jodi in Bollywood. Releasing the Zero teaser, a day in advance than planned -- Shah Rukh and Salman offer double bonanza to those who wanted to see their pairing on the big screen again. Calling it an Eid special teaser, Salman Khan enters the frame to introduce the character of Shah Rukh Khan in the film -- who happens to play the lead in the film. Shah Rukh’s name in the film is Bauua Singh. The teaser begins with the voice over from Javed Jaffery at a dance competition. Shah Rukh enters the frame to only be followed by Salman. The two then dance and brighten up the stage. It was first said that the teaser will release on Eid and that it will be attached to Salman’s film Race 3 that is scheduled to release on June 15. Interestingly in the teaser, Shah Rukh wears a t-shirt with Katrina Kaif’s face printed on it. Apart from Shah Rukh and Katrina Kaif, the film also stars Anushka Sharma. Earlier, Shah Rukh shared a selfie with director Anand on Thursday morning as they waited to share the teaser. Shah Rukh wrote: “Waiting for the link to reach us so that we can put the Zero Teaser out. @aanandlrai & me waiting on the streets of America to wish Eid to everyone. Just a few moments more!!! #ZeroCelebratesEid.” Waiting for the link to reach us so that we can put the Zero Teaser out. @aanandlrai & me waiting on the streets of America to wish Eid to everyone. Just a few moments more!!! #ZeroCelebratesEid pic.twitter.com/ps2hji0PGb — Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) June 14, 2018 × Zero has been directed by Aanand L Rai and is slated to release on December 21. Watch the teaser here:

Watch 'Zero' teaser: Shah Rukh Khan's gift to Salman Khan's fans this Eid

As Salman Khan gears up for a mega-release of his upcoming film <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-salman-khan-starrer-race-3-satellite-rights-sold-for-a-whopping-amount-143838">Race 3</a> on Friday, there is news that his life is in danger. Haryana Police’s Special Task Force recently arrested shooter Sampat Nehra who was assigned to attack and shoot the superstar.&nbsp;

The police now have news that allies of Sampat are still in the open and will carry out the impending task. The cops fear that these people can still target Salman, and have, therefore, alerted the Mumbai police about the same. There are reportedly three other shooters. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-shah-rukh-khan-salman-khan-have-an-eid-surprise-for-their-fans-read-details-inside-144065">Also read:&nbsp;Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan have an Eid surprise for their fans, read details inside!</a>

According to a report published in a website, a police official said, "Three of his sharpshooters – Raju, Akshay and Ankit – are on the run and as of now we do not have their location or an idea about their whereabouts. These men pose potential danger to Salman Khan.” <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-pravin-togadia-associate-declares-rs-2-lakh-reward-for-anyone-slapping-salman-khan-141620">Also read:&nbsp;Pravin Togadia associate announces Rs 2 lakh reward for anyone slapping Salman Khan</a> 
&nbsp; 
The Haryana Police also revealed that the trio had planned to free Sampat on Monday when he was being taken to the court. They added, “Due to this we made elaborate arrangements and changed the vehicles in which Sampat was being taken at regular intervals. The security was also beefed up so that the gangsters are unable to carry out their actions.” 
&nbsp; 
After the alert, the Mumbai police have beefed up the security around Salman. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
A senior police official said that Salman is provided with personal bodyguards all the time, and also, armed policemen are stationed around his apartment and sets.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi threatened to kill Salman in January over the blackbuck case.&nbsp;

Salman Khan was recently said to be on the target of the gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. His ally Sampat Nehra who was appointed to shoot Salman was arrested by the Haryana police.

As Salman Khan gears up for a mega-release of his upcoming film Race 3 on Friday, there is news that his life is in danger. Haryana Police’s Special Task Force recently arrested shooter Sampat Nehra who was assigned to attack and shoot the superstar. The police now have news that allies of Sampat are still in the open and will carry out the impending task. The cops fear that these people can still target Salman, and have, therefore, alerted the Mumbai police about the same. There are reportedly three other shooters. Also read: Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan have an Eid surprise for their fans, read details inside! According to a report published in a website, a police official said, "Three of his sharpshooters – Raju, Akshay and Ankit – are on the run and as of now we do not have their location or an idea about their whereabouts. These men pose potential danger to Salman Khan.” Also read: Pravin Togadia associate announces Rs 2 lakh reward for anyone slapping Salman Khan The Haryana Police also revealed that the trio had planned to free Sampat on Monday when he was being taken to the court. They added, “Due to this we made elaborate arrangements and changed the vehicles in which Sampat was being taken at regular intervals. The security was also beefed up so that the gangsters are unable to carry out their actions.” After the alert, the Mumbai police have beefed up the security around Salman. A senior police official said that Salman is provided with personal bodyguards all the time, and also, armed policemen are stationed around his apartment and sets. Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi threatened to kill Salman in January over the blackbuck case.

Haryana Police say Salman in danger, tell Mumbai counterparts to be on high alert

Former Union Minister and Delhi state unit chief Ajay Maken has expressed complete disagreement with the idea that Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) should have an electoral tie-up to keep the BJP away. He also said that a fragmented Opposition will not work against the BJP and Congress will have to regain its space as the principal party opposed to BJP as in the past fragmented Opposition government have not survived for long.

In the interview with WION's Kartikeya Sharma, Maken also reached out his colleagues in the party. Congress is holding a grand iftaar for its potential political allies in Delhi and has chosen not to invite AAP. 
&nbsp 
WION: How do you evaluate AAP's performance in Delhi?

Ajay Maken: AAP has slipped in Delhi. Their vote percentage has gone down consistently. From the municipal elections to Rajouri Garden by-polls, AAP's vote share has decreased. Rajouri Garden was a seat which AAP had won by a huge margin. AAP was third and came behind the Congress. This happened because they have not been able to fulfill promises.

WION: Do you feel that Delhi has suffered because of AAP's national ambitions?

Ajay Maken: Delhi has suffered simply because AAP does not know how to govern. Since coming to power they have been trying to create an artificial confrontation with the BJP for political reasons. One cannot rule by confrontation. Delhi is a Union Territory and one needs to build consensus with stakeholders. Being a bureaucrat, Kejriwal should have known this but again AAP does not know what governance is. We never compromised the interest of the people.

WION: What is your view on 'one-seat-one-candidate' proposed arrangement to challenge BJP?

Ajay Maken: My opinion is that a strong Congress is required at the Centre to counter BJP-RSS. One-seat-one-candidate is a good concept, but fragmented Opposition does not work. We have seen that in the past too. You need a strong party in the Opposition as there is a political life beyond elections too.

WION: Should this proposal apply on Delhi as well?

Ajay Maken: No, it should not. Even the chief minister of Punjab is opposed to this idea to stop the BJP. AAP is losing ground and when they are being rejected by people why should we supply them political oxygen? AAP is an opportunist party. It is not a secular party. Kejriwal is ideologically hollow. He was the one who tied up with Baba Ramdev and Kiran Bedi. If he gets concessions from BJP, he will side with them.

WION: Are you saying that alliances should be state specific?

Ajay Maken: Alliances have to be crafted on state to state basis after consulting the state leadership.

WION: What is the Congress roadmap of recovery under you?

Ajay Maken: Congress needs understanding within the party than help from outside. We have conducted surveys and found that people very fondly remember 15 years of Sheila Dixit's regime. We will win elections on our own. We cannot undermine the strength of the Congress workers in a state. In the past two decades Congress was able to defeat BJP thrice. In order to come back we don't need assistance. We have bench strength in leaders like Sheila Dixit, Mahabal Mishra, JP Agarwal and Sandeep Dixit. If we work together, we will defeat both AAP and BJP.

The DPCC chief lashes out at Aam Aadmi Party and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, says Congress has to capability to win Delhi assembly election on its own.

Former Union Minister and Delhi state unit chief Ajay Maken has expressed complete disagreement with the idea that Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) should have an electoral tie-up to keep the BJP away. He also said that a fragmented Opposition will not work against the BJP and Congress will have to regain its space as the principal party opposed to BJP as in the past fragmented Opposition government have not survived for long. In the interview with WION's Kartikeya Sharma, Maken also reached out his colleagues in the party. Congress is holding a grand iftaar for its potential political allies in Delhi and has chosen not to invite AAP. WION: How do you evaluate AAP's performance in Delhi? Ajay Maken: AAP has slipped in Delhi. Their vote percentage has gone down consistently. From the municipal elections to Rajouri Garden by-polls, AAP's vote share has decreased. Rajouri Garden was a seat which AAP had won by a huge margin. AAP was third and came behind the Congress. This happened because they have not been able to fulfill promises. WION: Do you feel that Delhi has suffered because of AAP's national ambitions? Ajay Maken: Delhi has suffered simply because AAP does not know how to govern. Since coming to power they have been trying to create an artificial confrontation with the BJP for political reasons. One cannot rule by confrontation. Delhi is a Union Territory and one needs to build consensus with stakeholders. Being a bureaucrat, Kejriwal should have known this but again AAP does not know what governance is. We never compromised the interest of the people. WION: What is your view on 'one-seat-one-candidate' proposed arrangement to challenge BJP? Ajay Maken: My opinion is that a strong Congress is required at the Centre to counter BJP-RSS. One-seat-one-candidate is a good concept, but fragmented Opposition does not work. We have seen that in the past too. You need a strong party in the Opposition as there is a political life beyond elections too. WION: Should this proposal apply on Delhi as well? Ajay Maken: No, it should not. Even the chief minister of Punjab is opposed to this idea to stop the BJP. AAP is losing ground and when they are being rejected by people why should we supply them political oxygen? AAP is an opportunist party. It is not a secular party. Kejriwal is ideologically hollow. He was the one who tied up with Baba Ramdev and Kiran Bedi. If he gets concessions from BJP, he will side with them. WION: Are you saying that alliances should be state specific? Ajay Maken: Alliances have to be crafted on state to state basis after consulting the state leadership. WION: What is the Congress roadmap of recovery under you? Ajay Maken: Congress needs understanding within the party than help from outside. We have conducted surveys and found that people very fondly remember 15 years of Sheila Dixit's regime. We will win elections on our own. We cannot undermine the strength of the Congress workers in a state. In the past two decades Congress was able to defeat BJP thrice. In order to come back we don't need assistance. We have bench strength in leaders like Sheila Dixit, Mahabal Mishra, JP Agarwal and Sandeep Dixit. If we work together, we will defeat both AAP and BJP.

No tie-up with Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi: Congress leader Ajay Maken to WION

One of the first few celebrities in India to have openly talked about mental health, Deepika Padukone has always tried to spread awareness about depression. The actress, who had admitted to have suffered from depression a few years back, even started a foundation The Live Love Laugh Foundation to spread more awareness about mental health.&nbsp; 
 
Following the death of designer Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, Deepika has shared a note of her organisation on Instagram reiterating the importance of reach out.&nbsp; 
 
Both Spade and Bourdain committed suicide and reportedly were suffering from depression.&nbsp; 
 
“Every 40 seconds a person dies by suicide,” the note begins, quoting WHO statistics. “Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain were pioneers in their fields... and to the outside world they ‘had it all’ and were seemingly ‘happy’”.

But despite 'having it all', the did suffer from depression, Deepika pointed out. " The element of depression that is grossly misunderstood is that you have control over your illness,” the post continues. “Asking someone to ‘snap out of it’ is like telling a person with a broken foot to continue walking.”

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bj67PAwBGtj/" 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">#Repost @tlllfoundation with @get_repost ・・・ #YouAreNotAlone #TogetherAgainstDepression we can make a difference. #MentalHealthAwareness | #MentalHealthMatters | #EndTheStigma</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/deepikapadukone/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Deepika Padukone</a> (@deepikapadukone) on <time datetime="2018-06-12T10:08:35+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">Jun 12, 2018 at 3:08am PDT</time>
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The organisation also aims at sensitising people about mental health and removing the stigma around the disease. 
 
Noted for her designer bags and jewellery, Kate Spade was found dead in her Manhattan apartment on June 5. Her death was ruled a suicide by hanging. She was 55. Her husband later revealed that she had battled depression for years. The US suicide hotline saw a 25% increase in phone calls following Spade’s death. 
 
Just a few days after Spade's suicide, on June 8, celebrated chef and TV presenter Anthony Bourdain hanged himself in his hotel room in France. He was reportedly suffering from depression as well.&nbsp; 
 
Deepika has on multiple occassions spoken about depression and her personal battle with the disease. “There’s absolutely no shame if you suffer from depression,” Deepika wrote in an article in 2017 for a daily.&nbsp;

Deepika Padukone wrote about how it is important to remove the stigma around the disease.

One of the first few celebrities in India to have openly talked about mental health, Deepika Padukone has always tried to spread awareness about depression. The actress, who had admitted to have suffered from depression a few years back, even started a foundation The Live Love Laugh Foundation to spread more awareness about mental health. Following the death of designer Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, Deepika has shared a note of her organisation on Instagram reiterating the importance of reach out. Both Spade and Bourdain committed suicide and reportedly were suffering from depression. “Every 40 seconds a person dies by suicide,” the note begins, quoting WHO statistics. “Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain were pioneers in their fields... and to the outside world they ‘had it all’ and were seemingly ‘happy’”. But despite 'having it all', the did suffer from depression, Deepika pointed out. " The element of depression that is grossly misunderstood is that you have control over your illness,” the post continues. “Asking someone to ‘snap out of it’ is like telling a person with a broken foot to continue walking.” #Repost @tlllfoundation with @get_repost ・・・ #YouAreNotAlone #TogetherAgainstDepression we can make a difference. #MentalHealthAwareness | #MentalHealthMatters | #EndTheStigma A post shared by Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) on Jun 12, 2018 at 3:08am PDT × The organisation also aims at sensitising people about mental health and removing the stigma around the disease. Noted for her designer bags and jewellery, Kate Spade was found dead in her Manhattan apartment on June 5. Her death was ruled a suicide by hanging. She was 55. Her husband later revealed that she had battled depression for years. The US suicide hotline saw a 25% increase in phone calls following Spade’s death. Just a few days after Spade's suicide, on June 8, celebrated chef and TV presenter Anthony Bourdain hanged himself in his hotel room in France. He was reportedly suffering from depression as well. Deepika has on multiple occassions spoken about depression and her personal battle with the disease. “There’s absolutely no shame if you suffer from depression,” Deepika wrote in an article in 2017 for a daily.

Deepika Padukone posts a message on depression in the wake of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain's suicide

Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan have planned to come together with an Eid surprise for their fans as Salman’s upcoming film “<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-salman-khan-starrer-race-3-satellite-rights-sold-for-a-whopping-amount-143838">Race 3</a>” is scheduled to release on the day. According to reports, Salman’s “Race 3” will have Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film “Zero’”s special teaser attached to it. The special teaser is likely to feature both Shah Rukh and Salman in a not-seen-before style.&nbsp;

Yesterday, a selected group of distributors and exhibitors in Mumbai watched the new teaser of “Zero” which would be releasing this Friday. One of them released this information to a website. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-salman-khan-on-race-3-trolling-when-guys-with-one-two-followers-troll-it-isnt-trolling-140581">Also read:&nbsp;Salman Khan on 'Race 3' trolling: When guys with one-two followers troll, it isn't trolling</a>

Talking to an entertainment website, the source said: "It's a short teaser - the ‘Zero’ teaser, which will be one minute and 15 seconds long. It's meant to celebrate Eid and is mind-blowing in its impact! We were blown away when we saw it and with the teaser, people will get a glimpse of how huge ‘Zero’ will be at the box office this year. We all know that Shah Rukh Khan plays a dwarf in the film and some stunning, breathtaking VFX has been done in ‘Zero’.” <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-shah-rukh-khan-and-anushka-sharma-to-shoot-at-nasa-for-their-upcoming-film-zero-140568">Also read:&nbsp;Shah Rukh Khan and Anushka Sharma to shoot at NASA for their upcoming film 'Zero'</a>

"This teaser begins with Salman Khan lounging in one corner of a boxing ring dressed in his ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ outfit - black vest, black jeans and black jacket. Shahrukh dressed in a white T-Shirt with Katrina Kaif's picture on it rushes into the ring towards Selman. And as Salman picks him up and hugs him, Shahrukh plants Salman a loud, smacking kiss on his cheek which he accepts with a twinkle in his eyes. As both start dancing to the same music as shown in the earlier teaser, a background voice says, ‘Dono Bhaiyon Ke Taraf Se Eid Mubarak!" <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/entertainment-shah-rukh-khans-pakistani-cousin-noor-jehan-wants-him-to-pray-for-her-to-succeed-143096">Also read:&nbsp;Shah Rukh Khan's Pakistani cousin Noor Jehan wants him to pray for her to succeed in elections</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">
A teaser of <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsrk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamsrk</a> 's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Zero?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Zero</a> will be out this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eid?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eid</a> - June 15th.. <a href="https://twitter.com/BeingSalmanKhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BeingSalmanKhan</a> is expected to be seen there..<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ZeroTeaserThisEid?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ZeroTeaserThisEid</a> <a href="https://t.co/BMYX6DKIcF">pic.twitter.com/BMYX6DKIcF</a>
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1006724267600371712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Apparently, the two have even got together for a special song. He added, "It will be released later this year. The song was choreographed by Ganesh Acharya at Yash Raj Studios last year when Salman was shooting for ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ in October."

"The teaser that releases this Friday with ‘Race 3’ is a special Eid teaser that they shot for. It's an amazing sight to see Salman and Shah Rukh dancing together and wishing everyone Eid Mubarak! Their fans will love it! Last year SRK had done a cameo (he played the magician Goga Pasha) for Salman for ‘Tubelight’ which had released on Eid,"the source added.&nbsp;

“Zero” will have Shah Rukh essay the role of a dwarf. Speaking about the film and his role, Shah Rukh in an earlier interview said, "We should know there is happiness abound in their lives. We don't have to empathise or sympathise with them, we just need to celebrate them like completely abled people. We should never distinguish between them."&nbsp;

The film starring Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif along with Khan is slated to release on December 21.&nbsp;

Shah Rukh Khan's Zero's special Eid teaser will be attached to Salman Khan's film 'Race 3' that is due to release on Eid. The teaser reportedly features both the stars.

Bollywood stars Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan have planned to come together with an Eid surprise for their fans as Salman’s upcoming film “Race 3” is scheduled to release on the day. According to reports, Salman’s “Race 3” will have Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film “Zero’”s special teaser attached to it. The special teaser is likely to feature both Shah Rukh and Salman in a not-seen-before style. Yesterday, a selected group of distributors and exhibitors in Mumbai watched the new teaser of “Zero” which would be releasing this Friday. One of them released this information to a website. Also read: Salman Khan on 'Race 3' trolling: When guys with one-two followers troll, it isn't trolling Talking to an entertainment website, the source said: "It's a short teaser - the ‘Zero’ teaser, which will be one minute and 15 seconds long. It's meant to celebrate Eid and is mind-blowing in its impact! We were blown away when we saw it and with the teaser, people will get a glimpse of how huge ‘Zero’ will be at the box office this year. We all know that Shah Rukh Khan plays a dwarf in the film and some stunning, breathtaking VFX has been done in ‘Zero’.” Also read: Shah Rukh Khan and Anushka Sharma to shoot at NASA for their upcoming film 'Zero' "This teaser begins with Salman Khan lounging in one corner of a boxing ring dressed in his ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ outfit - black vest, black jeans and black jacket. Shahrukh dressed in a white T-Shirt with Katrina Kaif's picture on it rushes into the ring towards Selman. And as Salman picks him up and hugs him, Shahrukh plants Salman a loud, smacking kiss on his cheek which he accepts with a twinkle in his eyes. As both start dancing to the same music as shown in the earlier teaser, a background voice says, ‘Dono Bhaiyon Ke Taraf Se Eid Mubarak!" Also read: Shah Rukh Khan's Pakistani cousin Noor Jehan wants him to pray for her to succeed in elections A teaser of @iamsrk 's #Zero will be out this #Eid - June 15th.. @BeingSalmanKhan is expected to be seen there..#ZeroTeaserThisEid pic.twitter.com/BMYX6DKIcF — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) June 13, 2018 × Apparently, the two have even got together for a special song. He added, "It will be released later this year. The song was choreographed by Ganesh Acharya at Yash Raj Studios last year when Salman was shooting for ‘Tiger Zinda Hai’ in October." "The teaser that releases this Friday with ‘Race 3’ is a special Eid teaser that they shot for. It's an amazing sight to see Salman and Shah Rukh dancing together and wishing everyone Eid Mubarak! Their fans will love it! Last year SRK had done a cameo (he played the magician Goga Pasha) for Salman for ‘Tubelight’ which had released on Eid,"the source added. “Zero” will have Shah Rukh essay the role of a dwarf. Speaking about the film and his role, Shah Rukh in an earlier interview said, "We should know there is happiness abound in their lives. We don't have to empathise or sympathise with them, we just need to celebrate them like completely abled people. We should never distinguish between them." The film starring Anushka Sharma and Katrina Kaif along with Khan is slated to release on December 21.

Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan have an Eid surprise for their fans, read details inside!

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday took up fitness challenge and shared a clip on his Twitter and Facebook page strengthening his muscles in the morning at his residence.&nbsp;

In a two-minute long video, PM Modi, wearing a black jogging dress, can be seen practising yoga asanas and other exercises.&nbsp;

The video shows him seen walking on a track created around a tree, doing stretching exercise and sitting on a rock for meditation.&nbsp;

He is also seen balancing himself while walking on a narrow, circular track.

In the tweet, the prime minister explained that his morning walk is inspired by the Panchtatvas or the five elements — Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu and Aakash.

In his message, the PM who always says yoga is key to good health said that he feels “extremely refreshing and rejuvenating” after morning exercise.

Modi also issued a challenge to Karnataka’s new chief minister HD Kumaraswamy, tennis player Monika Batra and “the entire fraternity of brave IPS officers, especially those above 40”.

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I am delighted to nominate the following for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FitnessChallenge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FitnessChallenge</a>: 
 
Karnataka’s CM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/hd_kumaraswamy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hd_kumaraswamy</a>. 
 
India’s pride and among the highest medal winners for India in the 2018 CWG, <a href="https://twitter.com/manikabatra_TT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@manikabatra_TT</a>. 
 
The entire fraternity of brave IPS officers, especially those above 40.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1006740125672353794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Here are moments from my morning exercises. Apart from Yoga, I walk on a track inspired by the Panchtatvas or 5 elements of nature - Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu, Aakash. This is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating. I also practice 
breathing exercises. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HumFitTohIndiaFit?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HumFitTohIndiaFit</a> <a href="https://t.co/km3345GuV2">pic.twitter.com/km3345GuV2</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1006739708670455810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Union Minister and Olympics silver medalist, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, had started this challenge on Twitter to highlight the importance of fitness and regular exercise. Those nominated in the tweet were required to post a video of an exercise from their workout and pass on the challenge to as many people as possible.

The trend caught up quickly, with celebrities, sportsmen and politicians taking up the challenge and posting their videos on Twitter and other social media. Indian cricket team’s captain Virat Kohli posted his own video and challenged Modi, which the PM accepted promptly.

Hours after PM Narendra Modi's tweet, HD Kumaraswamy responds to the fitness challenge, saying I am honoured& thanks very much for d concern about my health. I believe physical fitness is important for all&support d cause. Yoga-treadmill r part of my daily workout regime.Yet, I am more concerned about development fitness of my state&seek ur support for it.

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji 
I am honoured& thankU very much for d concern about my health 
I believe physical fitness is imptnt for all&support d cause. Yoga-treadmill r part of my daily workout regime. 
Yet, I am more concerned about devlpment fitness of my state&seek ur support for it.
— CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMofKarnataka/status/1006761540543016963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

In the tweet, the prime minister explained that his morning walk is inspired by the Panchtatvas or the five elements — Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu and Aakash.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday took up fitness challenge and shared a clip on his Twitter and Facebook page strengthening his muscles in the morning at his residence. In a two-minute long video, PM Modi, wearing a black jogging dress, can be seen practising yoga asanas and other exercises. The video shows him seen walking on a track created around a tree, doing stretching exercise and sitting on a rock for meditation. He is also seen balancing himself while walking on a narrow, circular track. In the tweet, the prime minister explained that his morning walk is inspired by the Panchtatvas or the five elements — Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu and Aakash. In his message, the PM who always says yoga is key to good health said that he feels “extremely refreshing and rejuvenating” after morning exercise. Modi also issued a challenge to Karnataka’s new chief minister HD Kumaraswamy, tennis player Monika Batra and “the entire fraternity of brave IPS officers, especially those above 40”. I am delighted to nominate the following for the #FitnessChallenge: Karnataka’s CM Shri @hd_kumaraswamy. India’s pride and among the highest medal winners for India in the 2018 CWG, @manikabatra_TT. The entire fraternity of brave IPS officers, especially those above 40. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2018 × Here are moments from my morning exercises. Apart from Yoga, I walk on a track inspired by the Panchtatvas or 5 elements of nature - Prithvi, Jal, Agni, Vayu, Aakash. This is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating. I also practice breathing exercises. #HumFitTohIndiaFit pic.twitter.com/km3345GuV2 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2018 × Union Minister and Olympics silver medalist, Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, had started this challenge on Twitter to highlight the importance of fitness and regular exercise. Those nominated in the tweet were required to post a video of an exercise from their workout and pass on the challenge to as many people as possible. The trend caught up quickly, with celebrities, sportsmen and politicians taking up the challenge and posting their videos on Twitter and other social media. Indian cricket team’s captain Virat Kohli posted his own video and challenged Modi, which the PM accepted promptly. Hours after PM Narendra Modi's tweet, HD Kumaraswamy responds to the fitness challenge, saying I am honoured& thanks very much for d concern about my health. I believe physical fitness is important for all&support d cause. Yoga-treadmill r part of my daily workout regime.Yet, I am more concerned about development fitness of my state&seek ur support for it. Dear @narendramodi ji I am honoured& thankU very much for d concern about my health I believe physical fitness is imptnt for all&support d cause. Yoga-treadmill r part of my daily workout regime. Yet, I am more concerned about devlpment fitness of my state&seek ur support for it. — CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) June 13, 2018 ×

Watch: Modi accepts Virat Kohli’s fitness challenge, passes it on to Karnataka CM

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