CRPF Soldier Puts Humanity Above All, Feeds A Differently-Abled Child. The Video Goes Viral & Wins Hearts On Social Media.

Gravitas: CRPF Soldier Goes Beyond Call Of Duty

A heart-warming video of a CRPF head constable driver Iqbal Singh has gone viral on social media in which he is seen offering his food to a differently abled child in the Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Deployed in the old city of Srinagar to maintain law and order, Iqbal says he noticed the child asking him for food after which he offered all his food to him.&nbsp;

On noticing that the child wasn't able to eat on his own, Singh made him eat by his own hands.&nbsp;

"He couldn't move his hands but wanted food. While I was making him eat the food, someone recorded the video and later it became viral," he said in an exclusive chat with WION.&nbsp;

However, this isn't for the first time that Iqbal Singh has shown sympathy and valour. In February this year, when Jaish terrorist Adil Ahmad Dar rammed his explosive-laden car into a CRPF bus in Pulwama, Iqbal was instrumental in rescuing the injured from the spot, hence saving many lives.&nbsp;

"I was part of that CRPF convoy. When the blast happened, I used my vehicle to ferry the injured jawans and later helped to identify many dead also," he says while his senior keenly listened to him.&nbsp;

He has been awarded DG's Disc and Commendation Certificate for his act.

He was driving a vehicle in the CRPF convoy on February 14 at the time of Pulwama terrorist attack.&nbsp;

Standing with a broad chest as he faced the camera, he said despite stone pelting, they want to help the residents of Kashmir valley, any day. His work is being appreciated by his officers.&nbsp;

The social media has been abuzz with praises for the CRPF man. Some said it was the sweetest gesture of love and peace while others lauded Iqbal Singh.

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"Humanity is the mother of all religions" 
 
HC Driver Iqbal Singh of 49 Bn Srinagar Sector CRPF deployed on LO duty feeds a paralysed Kashmiri kid in Nawakadal area of Srinagar. In the end, asks him "Do you need water?" 
 
"Valour and compassion are two sides of the same coin" <a href="https://t.co/zYQ60ZPYjJ">pic.twitter.com/zYQ60ZPYjJ</a>
— Srinagar Sector CRPF 🇮🇳 (@crpf_srinagar) <a href="https://twitter.com/crpf_srinagar/status/1128164097982287872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In a statement, CRPF said that Iqbal also shared his cup of tea with the kid.

"He also shared his cup of tea with the kid on the same afternoon. IG Srinagar CRPF appreciates the noble gesture of HC Iqbal Singh for going beyond the call of duty," the statement said.&nbsp;

A heart-warming video of a CRPF head constable driver Iqbal Singh has gone viral on social media in which he is seen offering his food to a differently abled child in the Jammu and Kashmir.

A heart-warming video of a CRPF head constable driver Iqbal Singh has gone viral on social media in which he is seen offering his food to a differently abled child in the Jammu and Kashmir. Deployed in the old city of Srinagar to maintain law and order, Iqbal says he noticed the child asking him for food after which he offered all his food to him. On noticing that the child wasn't able to eat on his own, Singh made him eat by his own hands. "He couldn't move his hands but wanted food. While I was making him eat the food, someone recorded the video and later it became viral," he said in an exclusive chat with WION. However, this isn't for the first time that Iqbal Singh has shown sympathy and valour. In February this year, when Jaish terrorist Adil Ahmad Dar rammed his explosive-laden car into a CRPF bus in Pulwama, Iqbal was instrumental in rescuing the injured from the spot, hence saving many lives. "I was part of that CRPF convoy. When the blast happened, I used my vehicle to ferry the injured jawans and later helped to identify many dead also," he says while his senior keenly listened to him. He has been awarded DG's Disc and Commendation Certificate for his act. He was driving a vehicle in the CRPF convoy on February 14 at the time of Pulwama terrorist attack. Standing with a broad chest as he faced the camera, he said despite stone pelting, they want to help the residents of Kashmir valley, any day. His work is being appreciated by his officers. The social media has been abuzz with praises for the CRPF man. Some said it was the sweetest gesture of love and peace while others lauded Iqbal Singh. "Humanity is the mother of all religions" HC Driver Iqbal Singh of 49 Bn Srinagar Sector CRPF deployed on LO duty feeds a paralysed Kashmiri kid in Nawakadal area of Srinagar. In the end, asks him "Do you need water?" "Valour and compassion are two sides of the same coin" pic.twitter.com/zYQ60ZPYjJ — Srinagar Sector CRPF 🇮🇳 (@crpf_srinagar) May 14, 2019 × In a statement, CRPF said that Iqbal also shared his cup of tea with the kid. "He also shared his cup of tea with the kid on the same afternoon. IG Srinagar CRPF appreciates the noble gesture of HC Iqbal Singh for going beyond the call of duty," the statement said.

J&K: CRPF man feeds his lunch to differently-abled, awarded

A heart-warming video is doing the rounds on Twitter, in which a CRPF jawan in Jammu and Kashmir is seen feeding a child with special needs on the streets.

Video showing CRPF jawan feeding a differently abled child in Jammu Kashmir wins heart, goes viral

West Bengal’s Maoists infested zones or the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) districts have been turned into a fortress with less than two days to go for the Lok Sabha polls here.

The largest paramilitary force – the CRPF - which was deployed in the Maoist-infested zones or Junglemahal in West Bengal was recently withdrawn by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in view of re-deployment of CRPF companies in other districts going to polls.

However, almost 80,000 jawans of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) have been deployed in the sixth phase of elections. This phase is one of the most crucial as LWE zones, comprising districts of Jungle Mahal – Jhargram, Purulia and parts of Bankura, West Midnapore and Birbhum, have not seen any Maoist movements in the last five years and the security agencies have chalked out massive plan to thwart any Maoist attempt to disrupt the poll process.

“Since the last week, we have started combing and search operations. Culverts, new roads, ambush locations have all been identified and we have started sanitizing all these areas. As many as 683 companies have been deployed in these zones and all of the 683 company commanders and ADHOC commanders have been asked to be on the field and be available on the phone at all times,” said S Raveendran, IG, CRPF, West Bengal sector.

“Our priority is safety and security of polling personnel. We have often seen either on their way to the polling station or on their way back from the polling station, they come under attack. We will ensure they are escorted safely to and fro from the polling stations in sensitive areas. As far as the security of the jawans is concerned, they have been asked to be on foot to prevent any landmine blast. Several anti-landmine and landmine assistant vehicles have also been pressed into service. Jawans in the most sensitive zones have been asked to wear the bulletproof jackets and bulletproof helmets,” added Raveendran.

In case of an eventuality, a chopper will remain stationed at Salboni CRPF camp to evacuate the injured or be pressed into service in case of an emergency.

West Bengal’s Maoists infested zones or the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) districts have been turned into a fortress with less than two days to go for the Lok Sabha polls here.

West Bengal’s Maoists infested zones or the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) districts have been turned into a fortress with less than two days to go for the Lok Sabha polls here. The largest paramilitary force – the CRPF - which was deployed in the Maoist-infested zones or Junglemahal in West Bengal was recently withdrawn by the Election Commission of India (ECI) in view of re-deployment of CRPF companies in other districts going to polls. However, almost 80,000 jawans of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) have been deployed in the sixth phase of elections. This phase is one of the most crucial as LWE zones, comprising districts of Jungle Mahal – Jhargram, Purulia and parts of Bankura, West Midnapore and Birbhum, have not seen any Maoist movements in the last five years and the security agencies have chalked out massive plan to thwart any Maoist attempt to disrupt the poll process. “Since the last week, we have started combing and search operations. Culverts, new roads, ambush locations have all been identified and we have started sanitizing all these areas. As many as 683 companies have been deployed in these zones and all of the 683 company commanders and ADHOC commanders have been asked to be on the field and be available on the phone at all times,” said S Raveendran, IG, CRPF, West Bengal sector. “Our priority is safety and security of polling personnel. We have often seen either on their way to the polling station or on their way back from the polling station, they come under attack. We will ensure they are escorted safely to and fro from the polling stations in sensitive areas. As far as the security of the jawans is concerned, they have been asked to be on foot to prevent any landmine blast. Several anti-landmine and landmine assistant vehicles have also been pressed into service. Jawans in the most sensitive zones have been asked to wear the bulletproof jackets and bulletproof helmets,” added Raveendran. In case of an eventuality, a chopper will remain stationed at Salboni CRPF camp to evacuate the injured or be pressed into service in case of an emergency.

CRPF draws massive plans to thwart Maoist attempts to disrupt poll process  

Naxals triggered an IED to blow up a police vehicle in Gadchiroli when a team of the C-60 commandos were patrolling the area and 16 security personnel were killed in this IED blast in the Naxal-affected Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra attack: 2nd Naxal attack in 24 hours, death toll rises to 16

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-raids-continue-at-various-locations-in-madhya-pradesh-security-heightened-208681&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi0_Yr7itThAhUM6XMBHSm7AzYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3oa_gTVL_qZZMX3hh6t4Mz"> raids</a> at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections.

Sources in the I-T department said the searches were conducted by four teams, each comprising 15 officials at the offices, residences and factory premises of people allegedly associated with the JD(S) leadership.

The officials were accompanied by CRPF personnel.

JD(S) and its ally Congress have been alleging that the BJP-led government at the Centre has been "misusing" central agencies to pursue its "politics of vendetta."

On March 28, leaders of both the parties led by chief minister H D Kumaraswamy, former chief minister Siddaramaiah, deputy chief minister G Parameshwara had staged a demonstration outside the income tax office when the raids began.

The Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (Karnataka-Goa region) B R Balakrishnan had even written to the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka seeking action against those who staged demonstrations, threatened the officials and interrupted them from discharging their duties under various sections of the IPC.

Meanwhile, an income tax department release said, "Today the Income-tax department is carrying out searches in Hassan, Mandya and Bangalore.

The searches being conducted today are based on credible intelligence that certain businessmen have earned income not disclosed to tax and are in possession of undisclosed assets."

"The taxpayers covered in today's search operations are engaged in real estate, quarrying and stone crushing, executing government contracts, operating petrol bunks, sawmill and managing cooperative Banks.

These are sectors which are prone to generation of black money," it said.

The release further said five residences in Hassan, one in Bangalore and one in Mandya along with their business premises were covered as part of the search operations.&nbsp;

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated raids at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections.

Income tax officials Tuesday carried out coordinated raids at premises owned by people allegedly linked to JD(S) in Mandya and Hassan districts, where party supremo H D Deve Gowda's grandsons Nikhil Kumaraswamy and Prajwal Revanna are contesting their maiden Lok Sabha elections. Sources in the I-T department said the searches were conducted by four teams, each comprising 15 officials at the offices, residences and factory premises of people allegedly associated with the JD(S) leadership. The officials were accompanied by CRPF personnel. JD(S) and its ally Congress have been alleging that the BJP-led government at the Centre has been "misusing" central agencies to pursue its "politics of vendetta." On March 28, leaders of both the parties led by chief minister H D Kumaraswamy, former chief minister Siddaramaiah, deputy chief minister G Parameshwara had staged a demonstration outside the income tax office when the raids began. The Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax (Karnataka-Goa region) B R Balakrishnan had even written to the Chief Electoral Officer of Karnataka seeking action against those who staged demonstrations, threatened the officials and interrupted them from discharging their duties under various sections of the IPC. Meanwhile, an income tax department release said, "Today the Income-tax department is carrying out searches in Hassan, Mandya and Bangalore. The searches being conducted today are based on credible intelligence that certain businessmen have earned income not disclosed to tax and are in possession of undisclosed assets." "The taxpayers covered in today's search operations are engaged in real estate, quarrying and stone crushing, executing government contracts, operating petrol bunks, sawmill and managing cooperative Banks. These are sectors which are prone to generation of black money," it said. The release further said five residences in Hassan, one in Bangalore and one in Mandya along with their business premises were covered as part of the search operations.

IT raids at premises of people linked to JDS in Mandya, Hassan

The 'Madadgaar' helpline set-up by the Central reserve police force in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is helping the common people every day. &nbsp;

From resolving the local grievance to assisting Kashmiris students outside the state, they have been at the forefront of it all.&nbsp;

Located on the outskirts of Srinagar, this helpline number receives hundreds of calls every day, not only from the local residents but also Kashmiris living outside the state.&nbsp;

Since the Pulwama terror attack, they have attended distress call by Kashmiris living outside and deputed officials for the assistance.&nbsp;

Started in 2017, with an aim to assist students studying all over the country who face security issues, the helpline has evolved itself and gown over the years.&nbsp;

Led by a young Commandant Gul Junaid Khan, a Kashmiri from north Kashmir, this force has taken a pledge to help the common man.

Junaid hails from a volatile area in Baramulla district where terrorists often attack men in uniform. He was rare to be retained in Srinagar, seeing his commitment and dedication to work by his officers.&nbsp;

"The basic idea of Madadgar is to help Kashmiris in distress who are in the state or outside. We provide several kinds of assistance to people. We have received 3.59 lakh calls till now for various kind of assistance," says Junaid while monitoring his team at work.&nbsp;

On average, this helpline receives 400 to 500 calls each day regarding a wide range of issues from road status to employment.&nbsp;

CRPF says on every day they get 15 to 20 service calls are related to medical issues. These men in uniform have also been donating blood and helping financially poor people on just a phone call.&nbsp;

"We are very happy in helping the people. We also get calls for blood donation and when we help them, they give us blessings," says Sub-Inspector, Sanjay Kumar.&nbsp;

The 'Madadgaar' helpline set-up by the Central reserve police force in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is helping the common people every day. From resolving the local grievance to assisting Kashmiris students outside the state, they have been at the forefront of it all.

The 'Madadgaar' helpline set-up by the Central reserve police force in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is helping the common people every day. From resolving the local grievance to assisting Kashmiris students outside the state, they have been at the forefront of it all. Located on the outskirts of Srinagar, this helpline number receives hundreds of calls every day, not only from the local residents but also Kashmiris living outside the state. Since the Pulwama terror attack, they have attended distress call by Kashmiris living outside and deputed officials for the assistance. Started in 2017, with an aim to assist students studying all over the country who face security issues, the helpline has evolved itself and gown over the years. Led by a young Commandant Gul Junaid Khan, a Kashmiri from north Kashmir, this force has taken a pledge to help the common man. Junaid hails from a volatile area in Baramulla district where terrorists often attack men in uniform. He was rare to be retained in Srinagar, seeing his commitment and dedication to work by his officers. "The basic idea of Madadgar is to help Kashmiris in distress who are in the state or outside. We provide several kinds of assistance to people. We have received 3.59 lakh calls till now for various kind of assistance," says Junaid while monitoring his team at work. On average, this helpline receives 400 to 500 calls each day regarding a wide range of issues from road status to employment. CRPF says on every day they get 15 to 20 service calls are related to medical issues. These men in uniform have also been donating blood and helping financially poor people on just a phone call. "We are very happy in helping the people. We also get calls for blood donation and when we help them, they give us blessings," says Sub-Inspector, Sanjay Kumar.

'Madadgaar': A CRPF helpline dedicated to common man in Jammu and Kashmir

Three Naxals and a paramilitary soldier were killed in an encounter in Jharkhand's Giridih early on Monday.

The encounter between the Naxals and the 7th battalion of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) broke out at 6am in the forests of Belbha Ghat area, news agency ANI reported.

The district is about 185 km from state capital Ranchi.

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Giridih: Bodies of 3 Naxals along with 1 AK-47 rifle, 3 magazines &amp; 4 pipe bombs recovered after 7 battalion of CRPF carried out special operations in forest area in Belbha Ghat today wherein an encounter broke out with Naxals. One CRPF personnel lost his life. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jharkhand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jharkhand</a> <a href="https://t.co/J9UK86ME2f">pic.twitter.com/J9UK86ME2f</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1117634210980880386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Three bodies of Naxals along with an AK-47 Rifle, three bullet magazines and four pipe bombs have been recovered from the encounter site, officials said.

The force is looking for more recoveries and a search is being conducted in the encounter area, they added.

Jharkhand will go to polls in the final four phases of the seven-phase Lok Sabha election. 
&nbsp;

Three Naxals and a paramilitary soldier were killed in an encounter in Jharkhand's Giridih early on Monday. The encounter between the Naxals and the 7th battalion of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) broke out at 6am in the forests of Belbha Ghat area, news agency ANI reported.

Three Naxals and a paramilitary soldier were killed in an encounter in Jharkhand's Giridih early on Monday. The encounter between the Naxals and the 7th battalion of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) broke out at 6am in the forests of Belbha Ghat area, news agency ANI reported. The district is about 185 km from state capital Ranchi. Giridih: Bodies of 3 Naxals along with 1 AK-47 rifle, 3 magazines & 4 pipe bombs recovered after 7 battalion of CRPF carried out special operations in forest area in Belbha Ghat today wherein an encounter broke out with Naxals. One CRPF personnel lost his life. #Jharkhand pic.twitter.com/J9UK86ME2f — ANI (@ANI) April 15, 2019 × Three bodies of Naxals along with an AK-47 Rifle, three bullet magazines and four pipe bombs have been recovered from the encounter site, officials said. The force is looking for more recoveries and a search is being conducted in the encounter area, they added. Jharkhand will go to polls in the final four phases of the seven-phase Lok Sabha election.

3 Naxals, CRPF jawan killed in Jharkhand encounter

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested Irshad Ahmad Reshi in connection with the attack on CRPF Group Centre at Lethpora in 2017.

According to police, he is the fifth accused to have been arrested in the case. His arrest comes close on the heels of disclosures made by Nisar Ahmed Tantray and Syed Hilal Andrabi, who were arrested earlier.

Reshi, a resident of Pulwama, will be produced before the special NIA Court in Srinagar on Monday.

Police said Reshi was an active over ground worker (OGW) of the proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). He was a close associate of slain terrorist and JeM commander Noor Mohammad Tantray, said police.

"The attack on CRPF Group Centre was executed under a conspiracy to avenge the death of Noor Trali, who was killed in an encounter with security forces in December 2017," police said.

The accused Reshi was a key a conspirator, who provided logistic support in the form of sheltering and transport to the terrorists, who carried out the audacious terror attack.

In 2017, the attack was carried out by three terrorists belonging to JeM. In this attack, five CRPF personnel were killed, while three others were grievously injured.

Three terrorists--involved in the attack--Fardeen Ahmad Khandey, Manzoor Baba and Abdul Shakoor were also eliminated during the encounter.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested Irshad Ahmad Reshi in connection with the attack on CRPF Group Centre at Lethpora in 2017. According to police, he is the fifth accused to have been arrested in the case.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Sunday arrested Irshad Ahmad Reshi in connection with the attack on CRPF Group Centre at Lethpora in 2017. According to police, he is the fifth accused to have been arrested in the case. His arrest comes close on the heels of disclosures made by Nisar Ahmed Tantray and Syed Hilal Andrabi, who were arrested earlier. Reshi, a resident of Pulwama, will be produced before the special NIA Court in Srinagar on Monday. Police said Reshi was an active over ground worker (OGW) of the proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM). He was a close associate of slain terrorist and JeM commander Noor Mohammad Tantray, said police. "The attack on CRPF Group Centre was executed under a conspiracy to avenge the death of Noor Trali, who was killed in an encounter with security forces in December 2017," police said. The accused Reshi was a key a conspirator, who provided logistic support in the form of sheltering and transport to the terrorists, who carried out the audacious terror attack. In 2017, the attack was carried out by three terrorists belonging to JeM. In this attack, five CRPF personnel were killed, while three others were grievously injured. Three terrorists--involved in the attack--Fardeen Ahmad Khandey, Manzoor Baba and Abdul Shakoor were also eliminated during the encounter.

NIA arrests 5th accused in CRPF group centre attack

Curfew remained in force in Kishtwar town of Jammu and Kashmir for the fifth day on Saturday after an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rss-worker-chandrakant-sharma-pso-killed-by-terrorists-in-jammu-and-kashmir-curfew-imposed-209047">RSS leader was shot dead</a> by militants in the communally-sensitive region earlier this week, officials said.

Internet services continued to be suspended as a precautionary measure in the district, but it was restored in nearby Doda and Ramban districts on Friday night, the officials said.

"Curfew is being strictly implemented in the town and adjoining areas to maintain law and order," Kishtwar District Development Commissioner A S Rana told PTI.

Army columns are assisting the CRPF and the police, the official said.

The curfew was promulgated in the town and adjoining areas on Tuesday after RSS leader Chanderkant Sharma and his security guard was shot dead by militants at a health centre.

Minor protests were reported from some interior localities, but the situation remained well under control, the officials said.

Some people, who were allowed to visit temples in the interior localities for the Ram Navami festival, raised slogans and later dispersed off peacefully, the officials said.

There was no violation of curfew reported from anywhere, the officials said.

"The situation will be reviewed later in the day to take a decision about the relaxation for the day," Rana said.

The curfew was relaxed in a phased manner, for the first time since its imposition, on Friday evening.

Police had picked up several overground workers for interrogation in connection with the incident and massive house-to-house searches were also going on.

Curfew remained in force in Kishtwar town of Jammu and Kashmir for the fifth day on Saturday after an RSS leader was shot dead by militants in the communally-sensitive region earlier this week, officials said.

Curfew remained in force in Kishtwar town of Jammu and Kashmir for the fifth day on Saturday after an RSS leader was shot dead by militants in the communally-sensitive region earlier this week, officials said. Internet services continued to be suspended as a precautionary measure in the district, but it was restored in nearby Doda and Ramban districts on Friday night, the officials said. "Curfew is being strictly implemented in the town and adjoining areas to maintain law and order," Kishtwar District Development Commissioner A S Rana told PTI. Army columns are assisting the CRPF and the police, the official said. The curfew was promulgated in the town and adjoining areas on Tuesday after RSS leader Chanderkant Sharma and his security guard was shot dead by militants at a health centre. Minor protests were reported from some interior localities, but the situation remained well under control, the officials said. Some people, who were allowed to visit temples in the interior localities for the Ram Navami festival, raised slogans and later dispersed off peacefully, the officials said. There was no violation of curfew reported from anywhere, the officials said. "The situation will be reviewed later in the day to take a decision about the relaxation for the day," Rana said. The curfew was relaxed in a phased manner, for the first time since its imposition, on Friday evening. Police had picked up several overground workers for interrogation in connection with the incident and massive house-to-house searches were also going on.

J&K: Curfew continues in Kishtwar town for fifth day

Naxals triggered an IED blast near a polling booth in Maharashtra's Gadchroli district Thursday while voting was underway, police said.

The IED (improvised explosive device) blast took place around 10.30 am in Waghezari area, around 150 metres from the polling booth where people were standing in queues to cast their votes for the Lok Sabha election, an official said.

Live Lok Sabha polls 2019:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-lok-sabha-polls-2019-voting-underway-in-91-seats-in-first-phase-209404"> Naxals trigger IED blast near polling booth in Maharashtra; no injuries reported</a>

No casualty was reported in the incident, he said.

On Wednesday, Naxals denoted an IED at Gatta Jambia village in Etapalli tehsil of the district when a polling party was moving towards polling stations under the protection of a police party and CRPF personnel.

A CRPF jawan was injured in the incident.

The official said Naxals were trying to disrupt the poll process and create panic among villagers, who came out in large numbers to vote on Thursday.

Gadchiroli is among the seven seats where polling is underway during the first phase of Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Naxals triggered an IED blast near a polling booth in Maharashtra's Gadchroli district Thursday while voting was underway, police said. The IED (improvised explosive device) blast took place around 10.

Naxals triggered an IED blast near a polling booth in Maharashtra's Gadchroli district Thursday while voting was underway, police said. The IED (improvised explosive device) blast took place around 10.30 am in Waghezari area, around 150 metres from the polling booth where people were standing in queues to cast their votes for the Lok Sabha election, an official said. Live Lok Sabha polls 2019: Naxals trigger IED blast near polling booth in Maharashtra; no injuries reported No casualty was reported in the incident, he said. On Wednesday, Naxals denoted an IED at Gatta Jambia village in Etapalli tehsil of the district when a polling party was moving towards polling stations under the protection of a police party and CRPF personnel. A CRPF jawan was injured in the incident. The official said Naxals were trying to disrupt the poll process and create panic among villagers, who came out in large numbers to vote on Thursday. Gadchiroli is among the seven seats where polling is underway during the first phase of Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Naxals trigger IED blast near polling booth in Maharashtra

India has evacuated its entire contingent of 15 CRPF personnel from Tripoli after the situation "suddenly worsened" in Libya, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said Sunday.

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) contingent was deployed as a peacekeeping force in Tripoli.

"The situation in Libya has suddenly worsened. There is fighting in Tripoli. Indian Embassy in Tunisia @IndiainTunisia has evacuated the entire contingent of 15 CRPF personnel yesterday itself," Swaraj tweeted.

"I appreciate the excellent work by Indian Embassy in Tunisia," she said.

The Indian Ambassador in Tunisia has the concurrent charge of Libya.

"All Indians in distress in Tripoli may please contact Mr.Mehtab on +218916320278 or Mr.Mustafa on +218924201771 or +218912146640," the minister said.&nbsp;

The military conflict in Libya escalated after forces of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar launched an air strike Sunday in an area in Tripoli and the government vowed a major counteroffensive.

The United Nations has called for a two-hour truce to allow evacuations of civilians and the wounded.&nbsp;

Rivalries between Haftar and the government threaten to plunge the country into a civil war.

India has evacuated its entire contingent of 15 CRPF personnel from Tripoli after the situation "suddenly worsened" in Libya, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said Sunday.

India has evacuated its entire contingent of 15 CRPF personnel from Tripoli after the situation "suddenly worsened" in Libya, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said Sunday. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) contingent was deployed as a peacekeeping force in Tripoli. "The situation in Libya has suddenly worsened. There is fighting in Tripoli. Indian Embassy in Tunisia @IndiainTunisia has evacuated the entire contingent of 15 CRPF personnel yesterday itself," Swaraj tweeted. "I appreciate the excellent work by Indian Embassy in Tunisia," she said. The Indian Ambassador in Tunisia has the concurrent charge of Libya. "All Indians in distress in Tripoli may please contact Mr.Mehtab on +218916320278 or Mr.Mustafa on +218924201771 or +218912146640," the minister said. The military conflict in Libya escalated after forces of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar launched an air strike Sunday in an area in Tripoli and the government vowed a major counteroffensive. The United Nations has called for a two-hour truce to allow evacuations of civilians and the wounded. Rivalries between Haftar and the government threaten to plunge the country into a civil war.

India evacuates peacekeeping CRPF contingent from Libya

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-government-orders-highway-closure-2-days-in-week-till-may-31-207814">"complete ban" on civilian traffic on Jammu-Srinagar highway </a>for two days a week came into force on Sunday in order to ensure safe passage for army convoys to pass through the national highway, news agency PTI reported.

The ban will be in effect on Sundays and Wednesdays of every week from 4 am to 5 pm on most parts of the 300-km long Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. Medical emergency vehicles are exempted from the order.

These restrictions would remain in force till May 31, 2019.

"The main purpose is to ensure that the security forces are given safe passage so that their movement is faster and secure. District magistrates, SHOs, SDMs, and tehsildars have been deployed so that people can approach them if they require assistance," news agency ANI quoted Jammu Divisional Commissioner Sanjeev Verma as saying.

Asked on people using the highway during the affected days in times of emergency, Verma informed that passes would be issued subject to verification and establishment of the credential of purpose.

"To avoid incidents like Pulwama and Banihal, the highway has been sanitised to ensure safe and secure passage of security forces so that they can reach their destination safely. Troops will be going up and down for deployment during elections or other assignments. So, keeping this in mind, this has been done," Verma added.

The prohibition on the movement of civilian traffic on these two days of each week would be from Baramulla through Srinagar, Qazigund, Jawahar-Tunnel, Banihal, and Ramban till Udhampur.

Echoing similar sentiments, Bhim Singh Tuti, DIG, Udhampur-Ramban range urged the public to cooperate with the administration when the restrictions are in effect.

"Prohibitory orders have been imposed in Ramban and Udhampur districts. The adequate number of personnel has been deployed. We urge the public to cooperate with us. Plying of two-way traffic is difficult. At some places, landslides are frequent, which increases the vulnerability of the troops. After the&nbsp;

Banihal incident, this decision has been taken," he said.

In the event of any requirement for local traffic movement for any emergency or for other purposes, the local administration and police would evolve necessary procedures for this as is done during curfew days.

The restrictions come in the wake of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/close-aide-of-pulwama-attack-mastermind-sent-to-judicial-custody-till-april-26-206529">February 14 terrorist attack on CRPF convoy in Pulwama district</a> while it was on its way from Jammu and Srinagar. It was attacked by a suicide car bomber in which 40 personnel were killed.

Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) had claimed responsibility for the attack.

Subsequently, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, during his visit to Kashmir, had announced that no civilian traffic movement would be allowed during the convoy days.

(With inputs from agencies)

A "complete ban" on civilian traffic on Jammu-Srinagar highway for two days a week came into force on Sunday in order to ensure safe passage for army convoys to pass through the national highway, news agency PTI reported.

A "complete ban" on civilian traffic on Jammu-Srinagar highway for two days a week came into force on Sunday in order to ensure safe passage for army convoys to pass through the national highway, news agency PTI reported. The ban will be in effect on Sundays and Wednesdays of every week from 4 am to 5 pm on most parts of the 300-km long Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. Medical emergency vehicles are exempted from the order. These restrictions would remain in force till May 31, 2019. "The main purpose is to ensure that the security forces are given safe passage so that their movement is faster and secure. District magistrates, SHOs, SDMs, and tehsildars have been deployed so that people can approach them if they require assistance," news agency ANI quoted Jammu Divisional Commissioner Sanjeev Verma as saying. Asked on people using the highway during the affected days in times of emergency, Verma informed that passes would be issued subject to verification and establishment of the credential of purpose. "To avoid incidents like Pulwama and Banihal, the highway has been sanitised to ensure safe and secure passage of security forces so that they can reach their destination safely. Troops will be going up and down for deployment during elections or other assignments. So, keeping this in mind, this has been done," Verma added. The prohibition on the movement of civilian traffic on these two days of each week would be from Baramulla through Srinagar, Qazigund, Jawahar-Tunnel, Banihal, and Ramban till Udhampur. Echoing similar sentiments, Bhim Singh Tuti, DIG, Udhampur-Ramban range urged the public to cooperate with the administration when the restrictions are in effect. "Prohibitory orders have been imposed in Ramban and Udhampur districts. The adequate number of personnel has been deployed. We urge the public to cooperate with us. Plying of two-way traffic is difficult. At some places, landslides are frequent, which increases the vulnerability of the troops. After the Banihal incident, this decision has been taken," he said. In the event of any requirement for local traffic movement for any emergency or for other purposes, the local administration and police would evolve necessary procedures for this as is done during curfew days. The restrictions come in the wake of February 14 terrorist attack on CRPF convoy in Pulwama district while it was on its way from Jammu and Srinagar. It was attacked by a suicide car bomber in which 40 personnel were killed. Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) had claimed responsibility for the attack. Subsequently, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, during his visit to Kashmir, had announced that no civilian traffic movement would be allowed during the convoy days. (With inputs from agencies)

J&K: Ban on civilian traffic for two days a week on Jammu-Srinagar highway comes into effect

A suspected terrorist, who made an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/car-explosion-reported-on-jammu-srinagar-highway-no-casualties-206653">abortive attempt to target a CRPF convoy </a>on Jammu-Srinagar national highway on Saturday, was arrested Monday and is being questioned, police sources said.

A CRPF vehicle had suffered slight damage when a Santro car went up in flames after an explosion at Tethar village, seven km from Banihal, shortly after a Jammu-bound convoy crossed the Jawahar Tunnel, the gateway to Kashmir valley.

The driver of the private vehicle managed to flee before the fire engulfed the vehicle and turned it into a mangled heap of iron.

The inspection of the vehicle and surrounding areas led to the recovery of LPG cylinders, a jerrycan filled with petrol, gelatin stick, urea and sulphur -- material which is used for fabricating the Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), police said.

A massive hunt was launched and finally the suspected terrorist was arrested in the early hours of Monday and is being questioned, the sources said.

The sources, however, did not reveal whether the arrest was made from Banihal or somewhere else.

A letter recovered from the scene had identified the driver as a Hizbul Mujahideen operative, who mentioned his intention to carry out a February 14 Pulwama type terror attack which left 40 CRPF personnel dead after a terrorist of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit drove an explosive-laden vehicle and targeted a CRPF convoy.

The forensic experts and a team of National Investigation Agency (NIA) visited Banihal and inspected the scene to help in the investigation.

A suspected terrorist, who made an abortive attempt to target a CRPF convoy on Jammu-Srinagar national highway on Saturday, was arrested Monday and is being questioned, police sources said.

A suspected terrorist, who made an abortive attempt to target a CRPF convoy on Jammu-Srinagar national highway on Saturday, was arrested Monday and is being questioned, police sources said. A CRPF vehicle had suffered slight damage when a Santro car went up in flames after an explosion at Tethar village, seven km from Banihal, shortly after a Jammu-bound convoy crossed the Jawahar Tunnel, the gateway to Kashmir valley. The driver of the private vehicle managed to flee before the fire engulfed the vehicle and turned it into a mangled heap of iron. The inspection of the vehicle and surrounding areas led to the recovery of LPG cylinders, a jerrycan filled with petrol, gelatin stick, urea and sulphur -- material which is used for fabricating the Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), police said. A massive hunt was launched and finally the suspected terrorist was arrested in the early hours of Monday and is being questioned, the sources said. The sources, however, did not reveal whether the arrest was made from Banihal or somewhere else. A letter recovered from the scene had identified the driver as a Hizbul Mujahideen operative, who mentioned his intention to carry out a February 14 Pulwama type terror attack which left 40 CRPF personnel dead after a terrorist of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit drove an explosive-laden vehicle and targeted a CRPF convoy. The forensic experts and a team of National Investigation Agency (NIA) visited Banihal and inspected the scene to help in the investigation.

J&K: Suspect terrorist behind abortive bid to target CRPF convoy arrested

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday.

The briefing, to be held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on April 4, will be attended by the members of standing committees of the National Assembly and Senate on defence, Dawn reported.

General Bajwa will "brief the parliamentarians on hostile situation at the Line of Control", it said.

The paper said that it will be the second briefing by the army chief to the parliamentarians over one month.

Earlier, parliamentarians were briefed in an in-camera session held at Parliament House on February 27, the day the Pakistan Air Force carried out a raid in India. However, Prime Minister Imran Khan did not attend the briefing.

This week's briefing would be attended by a number of prominent leaders from the opposition parties, including former ministers, as they are members of the two committees.

According to a notification issued by the National Assembly Secretariat, chairman of the NA committee Amjad Ali Khan would lead the delegation of members of the National Assembly, the lower house.

Defence Minister Pervez Khattak has also been invited as he is an ex-officio member of both standing committees.

The lawmakers have been told to assemble at Gate No 1 of Parliament House at 10 a.M. And those who intend to proceed directly to GHQ have been asked to provide registration numbers of their vehicles before the meeting.

A notification issued by the Senate Secretariat says that Chairman of Senate standing committee on defence Azam Swati will lead the Senate members.

A few days ago Prime Minister Khan had said that the "possibility of a misadventure" from India could not be ignored.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the armed forces needed to remain alert.

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the February 14 attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pulwama that killed 40 CRPF soldiers.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside

Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an Indian pilot, who was handed over to India later.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday. The briefing, to be held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on April 4, will be attended by the members of standing committees of the National Assembly and Senate on defence, Dawn reported. General Bajwa will "brief the parliamentarians on hostile situation at the Line of Control", it said. The paper said that it will be the second briefing by the army chief to the parliamentarians over one month. Earlier, parliamentarians were briefed in an in-camera session held at Parliament House on February 27, the day the Pakistan Air Force carried out a raid in India. However, Prime Minister Imran Khan did not attend the briefing. This week's briefing would be attended by a number of prominent leaders from the opposition parties, including former ministers, as they are members of the two committees. According to a notification issued by the National Assembly Secretariat, chairman of the NA committee Amjad Ali Khan would lead the delegation of members of the National Assembly, the lower house. Defence Minister Pervez Khattak has also been invited as he is an ex-officio member of both standing committees. The lawmakers have been told to assemble at Gate No 1 of Parliament House at 10 a.M. And those who intend to proceed directly to GHQ have been asked to provide registration numbers of their vehicles before the meeting. A notification issued by the Senate Secretariat says that Chairman of Senate standing committee on defence Azam Swati will lead the Senate members. A few days ago Prime Minister Khan had said that the "possibility of a misadventure" from India could not be ignored. Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the armed forces needed to remain alert. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the February 14 attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pulwama that killed 40 CRPF soldiers. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an Indian pilot, who was handed over to India later.

Pakistan Army chief to brief parliamentarians on 'hostile situation' at LoC

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia&nbsp;held wide-ranging talks with his&nbsp;counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change.

During the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bolivia-sign-eight-memorandum-of-understandings-206624">bilateral talks between both Presidents</a>, Bolivia extended its support for India's membership as a non-permanent member of United Nations Security Council.&nbsp;

"There was an acknowledgement that current membership of UNSC is not reflective of realities of the twenty-first century and President Evo Morales expressed full understanding of India's aspiration to be a member of UNSC. He extended support for India's membership as a non-permanent member," Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary of Ministry of Exrernal Affairs said on Saturday.

Bolivian President also condemned the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"Bolivian President strongly condemned Pulwama attack and denounced cross border terrorism. There was an assertion that terrorism in all its forms constitutes a threat to humanity," Singh added in the press briefing in the national capital.

Bolivia-India also called for early finalisation of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, Singh informed.

The President is on a three-nation tour to strengthen India's ties in key sectors such as trade, investment and renewable energy. He was in Croatia from March 25-28.&nbsp;

On March 30, he will head to Chile to hold talks with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Piera.

President's visit to Bolivia was the first-ever presidential-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet, "In first ever Presidential level visit between India and Bolivia wide ranging discussions were held between #PresidentKovind and Bolivian President Evo Morales on political economic and cultural issues including space, mining, IT, pharmaceutical and traditional medicines".

Kovind, during his three-day visit to Bolivia, will also participate in an India-Bolivia business meet, address university students and interact with the Indian community.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia held wide-ranging talks with his counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change.

President Ram Nath Kovind who is on a three-day visit to Bolivia held wide-ranging talks with his counterpart Evo Morales on a number of bilateral issues such as the economy, terrorism, UN Security Council reforms and climate change. During the bilateral talks between both Presidents, Bolivia extended its support for India's membership as a non-permanent member of United Nations Security Council. "There was an acknowledgement that current membership of UNSC is not reflective of realities of the twenty-first century and President Evo Morales expressed full understanding of India's aspiration to be a member of UNSC. He extended support for India's membership as a non-permanent member," Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary of Ministry of Exrernal Affairs said on Saturday. Bolivian President also condemned the Pulwama terror attack in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir. "Bolivian President strongly condemned Pulwama attack and denounced cross border terrorism. There was an assertion that terrorism in all its forms constitutes a threat to humanity," Singh added in the press briefing in the national capital. Bolivia-India also called for early finalisation of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, Singh informed. The President is on a three-nation tour to strengthen India's ties in key sectors such as trade, investment and renewable energy. He was in Croatia from March 25-28. On March 30, he will head to Chile to hold talks with his Chilean counterpart Sebastian Piera. President's visit to Bolivia was the first-ever presidential-level visit to the Latin American country since the establishment of diplomatic ties. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet, "In first ever Presidential level visit between India and Bolivia wide ranging discussions were held between #PresidentKovind and Bolivian President Evo Morales on political economic and cultural issues including space, mining, IT, pharmaceutical and traditional medicines". Kovind, during his three-day visit to Bolivia, will also participate in an India-Bolivia business meet, address university students and interact with the Indian community. (With inputs from agencies)

Bolivia supports India's bid for non-permanent member in UN Security Council

One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel got injured on Saturday after terrorists lobbed a grenade at a CRPF bunker near SBI branch in Pulwama, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

No casualties have been reported. More details are awaited.&nbsp;

The incident comes over a month after the Pulwama terror attack which killed over 40 CRPF personnel.&nbsp;

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a terror outfit based in Pakistan, claimed the responsibility of orchestrating the attack.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a>: One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel injured after terrorists lobbed grenade at a CRPF bunker near SBI branch in Pulwama, today. More details awaited. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/DxL6HKRrLC">https://t.co/DxL6HKRrLC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1111946631300202496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The man who carried out the terror attack was identified as Adil Ahmad Dar. He rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a CRPF convoy on February 14.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday sent alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/close-aide-of-pulwama-attack-mastermind-sent-to-judicial-custody-till-april-26-206529">Sajjad Khan to judicial custody till April 26</a>.&nbsp;

Khan is believed to be a close associate of Pulwama attack mastermind Mudassir Ahmed Khan who was gunned down by the security forces in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir on March 11.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel got injured on Saturday after terrorists lobbed a grenade at a CRPF bunker near SBI branch in Pulwama, news agency ANI reported.

One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel got injured on Saturday after terrorists lobbed a grenade at a CRPF bunker near SBI branch in Pulwama, news agency ANI reported. No casualties have been reported. More details are awaited. The incident comes over a month after the Pulwama terror attack which killed over 40 CRPF personnel. Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a terror outfit based in Pakistan, claimed the responsibility of orchestrating the attack. #UPDATE: One Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel injured after terrorists lobbed grenade at a CRPF bunker near SBI branch in Pulwama, today. More details awaited. #JammuAndKashmir https://t.co/DxL6HKRrLC — ANI (@ANI) March 30, 2019 × The man who carried out the terror attack was identified as Adil Ahmad Dar. He rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a CRPF convoy on February 14. Meanwhile, Delhi's Patiala House Court on Friday sent alleged Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist Sajjad Khan to judicial custody till April 26. Khan is believed to be a close associate of Pulwama attack mastermind Mudassir Ahmed Khan who was gunned down by the security forces in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir on March 11. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorists hurl grenade at CRPF bunker in Pulwama, one jawaan injured

A civil car exploded near a CRPF convoy in Banihal town of Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Saturday, officials said, adding that there were no casualties among the security personnel.

The incident occurred around 10.30 am, triggering memories of the February 14 vehicle-borne suicide attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama in Kashmir that claimed the lives of 40 personnel.

Officials said the car, a Hyundai Santro model, was completely gutted in the fire. Due to the impact of the blast, slight damage was caused to the rear of the CRPF bus registered with a Haryana number plate.

It is suspected that the car was carrying a mix of chemicals, explosives and LPG cylinders.

"No injuries were caused to the CRPF personnel and the incident is being investigated in respect to all possible angles," a senior official said.

About 10 vehicles were reported to be part of the CRPF convoy.&nbsp;

A civil car exploded near a CRPF convoy in Banihal town of Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Saturday, officials said, adding that there were no casualties among the security personnel.

A civil car exploded near a CRPF convoy in Banihal town of Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Saturday, officials said, adding that there were no casualties among the security personnel. The incident occurred around 10.30 am, triggering memories of the February 14 vehicle-borne suicide attack on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama in Kashmir that claimed the lives of 40 personnel. Officials said the car, a Hyundai Santro model, was completely gutted in the fire. Due to the impact of the blast, slight damage was caused to the rear of the CRPF bus registered with a Haryana number plate. It is suspected that the car was carrying a mix of chemicals, explosives and LPG cylinders. "No injuries were caused to the CRPF personnel and the incident is being investigated in respect to all possible angles," a senior official said. About 10 vehicles were reported to be part of the CRPF convoy.

Blast inside car on Jammu-Srinagar highway; no casualties reported

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area.

After receiving inputs about their presence, joint forces of the Indian army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a joint cordon-and-search operation in Sutsu Kalan area of Chattergam in Budgam district.&nbsp;

Five Indian army personnel were also injured in the operation, all of them have received splinter injuries from a grenade fired by a terrorist.&nbsp;

They have been shifted to the army’s 92 base hospital for treatment.

Sources told WION that forces had inputs about the presence of three terrorists. A police official said that arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the spot.

Sources added that an advance rifle which was used to snipe out forces in the area was also recovered from the slain terrorists.&nbsp;

The identity of the slain terrorists wasn’t immediately known.&nbsp;

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area.

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area. After receiving inputs about their presence, joint forces of the Indian army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a joint cordon-and-search operation in Sutsu Kalan area of Chattergam in Budgam district. Five Indian army personnel were also injured in the operation, all of them have received splinter injuries from a grenade fired by a terrorist. They have been shifted to the army’s 92 base hospital for treatment. Sources told WION that forces had inputs about the presence of three terrorists. A police official said that arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the spot. Sources added that an advance rifle which was used to snipe out forces in the area was also recovered from the slain terrorists. The identity of the slain terrorists wasn’t immediately known.

J&K: Security forces gun down two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists near Srinagar

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/over-200-kg-of-explosives-was-used-in-pulwamas-terror-attack-197469">CRPF will procure a new fleet</a> of mine protected vehicles (MPVs) and small 30-seater buses to ensure the safety of its troop convoys in the Kashmir Valley, the chief of the force has said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
The paramilitary has also decided to enhance the number of its bomb detection and disposal squads (BDDS) for its about 65 battalions based in the Kashmir Valley for anti-terror and law and order duties. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
These new measures have been chalked out by the force in the aftermath of the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 personnel travelling in a bus, part of a convoy from Jammu to Srinagar, was killed by a suicide bomber as he exploded a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (IED). 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
"We are enhancing our counter-IED capabilities in Kashmir. We are procuring and sending more MPVs and are bullet-proofing force buses. As it is difficult to armour large buses, we are looking at procuring small 30-seater buses that can be better armour plated," CRPF Director General (DG) R R Bhatnagar said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
The force uses MPVs for limited troop movements in the anti-Naxal operations theatre and some of them are being used in Jammu and Kashmir too. About six personnel can travel in these four-wheeled vehicles.

Bhatnagar said small buses can be better fabricated and provided bullet-resistant armour as compared to the standard large buses that seat 54-57 people.

A similar large bus was blown up during the Pulwama attack.

Officials said once a large bus is fabricated with bullet-proof sheets, its engine takes a toll and its speed and endurance are restricted due to the weight of the additional metal used for the armour.

The CRPF chief said it has been decided to provide bomb detection and disposal squads to each battalion of the force deployed in the Kashmir Valley and those units which had them will see an increase in the number of personnel and equipment to detect and counter explosives and IEDs.

Seats have been increased in the Pune-based IED education school of the force so that more personnel are trained in the trade of detection and disarming such bombs in Kashmir, Bhatnagar said.

The bullet-proof armour to the buses will only save force personnel from firing attacks by terrorists and will not provide fool-proof protection from explosions like the one that was carried out in Pulwama, a senior officer said.

To counter Pulwama-like attacks, new procedures for convoy movement and protection have been notified, he added.

The new convoy movement procedure involves restricting the movement of civilian vehicles, regularly changing halting points and dynamic movement of convoys to and from the Kashmir Valley, he said.

Facing criticism for allowing large convoys to ply on roads in an operationally sensitive area like Jammu and Kashmir, the home ministry had announced last month that all jawans and officers of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) deployed in the Kashmir Valley can now take a commercial flight while going in to join duty or for tour and while proceeding on leave.

The CRPF cavalcade that came under attack on February 14 had seventy-eight vehicles and the ill-fated bus was fifth in line.

The CRPF will procure a new fleet of mine protected vehicles (MPVs) and small 30-seater buses to ensure the safety of its troop convoys in the Kashmir Valley, the chief of the force has said.

The CRPF will procure a new fleet of mine protected vehicles (MPVs) and small 30-seater buses to ensure the safety of its troop convoys in the Kashmir Valley, the chief of the force has said. The paramilitary has also decided to enhance the number of its bomb detection and disposal squads (BDDS) for its about 65 battalions based in the Kashmir Valley for anti-terror and law and order duties. These new measures have been chalked out by the force in the aftermath of the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in which 40 personnel travelling in a bus, part of a convoy from Jammu to Srinagar, was killed by a suicide bomber as he exploded a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (IED). "We are enhancing our counter-IED capabilities in Kashmir. We are procuring and sending more MPVs and are bullet-proofing force buses. As it is difficult to armour large buses, we are looking at procuring small 30-seater buses that can be better armour plated," CRPF Director General (DG) R R Bhatnagar said. The force uses MPVs for limited troop movements in the anti-Naxal operations theatre and some of them are being used in Jammu and Kashmir too. About six personnel can travel in these four-wheeled vehicles. Bhatnagar said small buses can be better fabricated and provided bullet-resistant armour as compared to the standard large buses that seat 54-57 people. A similar large bus was blown up during the Pulwama attack. Officials said once a large bus is fabricated with bullet-proof sheets, its engine takes a toll and its speed and endurance are restricted due to the weight of the additional metal used for the armour. The CRPF chief said it has been decided to provide bomb detection and disposal squads to each battalion of the force deployed in the Kashmir Valley and those units which had them will see an increase in the number of personnel and equipment to detect and counter explosives and IEDs. Seats have been increased in the Pune-based IED education school of the force so that more personnel are trained in the trade of detection and disarming such bombs in Kashmir, Bhatnagar said. The bullet-proof armour to the buses will only save force personnel from firing attacks by terrorists and will not provide fool-proof protection from explosions like the one that was carried out in Pulwama, a senior officer said. To counter Pulwama-like attacks, new procedures for convoy movement and protection have been notified, he added. The new convoy movement procedure involves restricting the movement of civilian vehicles, regularly changing halting points and dynamic movement of convoys to and from the Kashmir Valley, he said. Facing criticism for allowing large convoys to ply on roads in an operationally sensitive area like Jammu and Kashmir, the home ministry had announced last month that all jawans and officers of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) deployed in the Kashmir Valley can now take a commercial flight while going in to join duty or for tour and while proceeding on leave. The CRPF cavalcade that came under attack on February 14 had seventy-eight vehicles and the ill-fated bus was fifth in line.

Post-Pulwama, mine-protected vehicles, 30-seater buses for CRPF convoys in J&K

There will no opening ceremony for the twelfth edition of India Premier League following a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=pulwama">terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a> that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.&nbsp;

The chief of the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai said, "We'll not have a regular IPL opening ceremony."&nbsp;

He further added, "The amount of the budget for the opening ceremony will be given to families of the victims of this terror attack."&nbsp;

Usually, the opening ceremonies of India's cash-rich T20 league are heady mix glitz and glamour with performances by Bollywood stars being the highlight.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-premier-league-2019-schedule-squad-time-and-venue-198297">Indian Premier League 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

However, the CoA <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/no-decision-yet-on-indias-world-cup-match-against-pakistan-coa-chief-vinod-rai-198953">took the call at a meeting</a> to scrap the ceremony in honour of martyred CRPF men.&nbsp;

Vinod Rai also mentioned that BCCI will draft a letter to game's global governing body asking them whether to ban Pakistan from participating in the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;

The Rai-led CoA decided against taking any stand on the World Cup clash against Pakistan but said it would individually urge ICC members to "sever ties with any nation that is a terrorist hub".&nbsp;

The twelfth edition of India Premier League is set to start from March 23, 2019.&nbsp;

The defending champions Chennai will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team.&nbsp;

There will no opening ceremony for the twelfth edition of India Premier League following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

There will no opening ceremony for the twelfth edition of India Premier League following a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. The chief of the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (CoA) Vinod Rai said, "We'll not have a regular IPL opening ceremony." He further added, "The amount of the budget for the opening ceremony will be given to families of the victims of this terror attack." Usually, the opening ceremonies of India's cash-rich T20 league are heady mix glitz and glamour with performances by Bollywood stars being the highlight. Also Read: Indian Premier League 2019: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue However, the CoA took the call at a meeting to scrap the ceremony in honour of martyred CRPF men. Vinod Rai also mentioned that BCCI will draft a letter to game's global governing body asking them whether to ban Pakistan from participating in the 2019 World Cup. The Rai-led CoA decided against taking any stand on the World Cup clash against Pakistan but said it would individually urge ICC members to "sever ties with any nation that is a terrorist hub". The twelfth edition of India Premier League is set to start from March 23, 2019. The defending champions Chennai will kick off the season against Virat Kohli-led Bangalore team.

No IPL opening ceremony this year, money will go to Pulwama martyrs' families: CoA chief Vinod Rai

India has deployed an elite contingent of its commando-trained armed paramilitary personnel to guard its embassy and diplomatic staff in Baghdad in Iraq, a war-ravaged country getting back to normal after defeating ISIS terrorists.

About 45 multi-skilled troops, drawn from the country's largest Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), the CRPF, have taken charge of the embassy complex located in the Al Mansour area of the Iraqi capital, some time ago.

The contingent has taken charge in Iraq and the troops celebrated their first Republic Day and hoisted the tricolour in that country on January 26, official sources said.

The squad is led by a Deputy Commandant-rank officer of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and this is the second foreign assignment for the paramilitary as it similarly guards the Indian Embassy in Libya's capital city of Tripoli for the last few years, they said.

India has, on February 4, revised its ''no travel'' advisory to Iraq and has said that citizens can now travel to the war and insurgency-ravaged country as the security situation has "improved".

The advisory, issued by the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi, allows Indians to travel to any part of the country for work or business except five provinces of Nineveh (capital Mosul), Salahuddin (capital Tikrit), Diyala (capital Baquba), Anbar (capital Ramadi) and Kirkuk.

It added that travellers should inform Indian authorities at the Baghdad Embassy or the Consulate General in Erbil before they travel to Iraq.

While there has been no targeted hit at the Indian mission in Baghdad, the city has witnessed suicide attacks and bombings by the ISIS terrorists since 2003 when the terrorists captured large parts of the country and neighbouring Syria to establish a self-styled Islamic caliphate.

Iraqi forces, backed by the US, got hold of their areas in late 2017 after numerous gun battles and deaths.

The CRPF commando contingent has been armed with some of the best and sophisticated weapons such as AK-series assault rifles, Glock pistols and other equipment required for an armoured counter-terror shield, they said.

The squad had a good mix of combat-skilled drivers, quick reaction teams, personal security officers, hostage rescue specialists and improvised explosive device (IED) experts who can not only secure the complex but also guard diplomats who venture out, they said.

The commandos have been picked from the highly motivated and disciplined units of the force that have worked in the anti-Naxal operations theatre and the force's special jungle warfare squad, CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action).

The over 3 lakh personnel strong CRPF is the country's lead internal security force that is tasked with combating the Left Wing Extremism and counter-terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Sone other CAPFs render a similar task of guarding Indian assets abroad.

While the Indian Embassy in Afghanistan is guarded by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), those in Nepal and Colombo have the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Border Security Force (BSF) contingents respectively.

India has deployed an elite contingent of its commando-trained armed paramilitary personnel to guard its embassy and diplomatic staff in Baghdad in Iraq, a war-ravaged country getting back to normal after defeating ISIS terrorists.

India has deployed an elite contingent of its commando-trained armed paramilitary personnel to guard its embassy and diplomatic staff in Baghdad in Iraq, a war-ravaged country getting back to normal after defeating ISIS terrorists. About 45 multi-skilled troops, drawn from the country's largest Central Armed Police Force (CAPF), the CRPF, have taken charge of the embassy complex located in the Al Mansour area of the Iraqi capital, some time ago. The contingent has taken charge in Iraq and the troops celebrated their first Republic Day and hoisted the tricolour in that country on January 26, official sources said. The squad is led by a Deputy Commandant-rank officer of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and this is the second foreign assignment for the paramilitary as it similarly guards the Indian Embassy in Libya's capital city of Tripoli for the last few years, they said. India has, on February 4, revised its ''no travel'' advisory to Iraq and has said that citizens can now travel to the war and insurgency-ravaged country as the security situation has "improved". The advisory, issued by the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi, allows Indians to travel to any part of the country for work or business except five provinces of Nineveh (capital Mosul), Salahuddin (capital Tikrit), Diyala (capital Baquba), Anbar (capital Ramadi) and Kirkuk. It added that travellers should inform Indian authorities at the Baghdad Embassy or the Consulate General in Erbil before they travel to Iraq. While there has been no targeted hit at the Indian mission in Baghdad, the city has witnessed suicide attacks and bombings by the ISIS terrorists since 2003 when the terrorists captured large parts of the country and neighbouring Syria to establish a self-styled Islamic caliphate. Iraqi forces, backed by the US, got hold of their areas in late 2017 after numerous gun battles and deaths. The CRPF commando contingent has been armed with some of the best and sophisticated weapons such as AK-series assault rifles, Glock pistols and other equipment required for an armoured counter-terror shield, they said. The squad had a good mix of combat-skilled drivers, quick reaction teams, personal security officers, hostage rescue specialists and improvised explosive device (IED) experts who can not only secure the complex but also guard diplomats who venture out, they said. The commandos have been picked from the highly motivated and disciplined units of the force that have worked in the anti-Naxal operations theatre and the force's special jungle warfare squad, CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action). The over 3 lakh personnel strong CRPF is the country's lead internal security force that is tasked with combating the Left Wing Extremism and counter-terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Sone other CAPFs render a similar task of guarding Indian assets abroad. While the Indian Embassy in Afghanistan is guarded by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), those in Nepal and Colombo have the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Border Security Force (BSF) contingents respectively.

India deploys CRPF commando squad to guard embassy in Baghdad

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Monday briefed US National Security Advisor John Bolton about the measures taken by Islamabad to de-escalate tensions with India following the Pulwama terror attack.

Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26.

The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured Indian pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1.

The Foreign Office (FO) said that Qureshi and Bolton, during their telephonic conversation, discussed regional security situation following the Pulwama incident.

"The purpose of the call was to provide him Pakistan's perspective on the recent regional developments," the FO said.

Qureshi's call to Bolton came ahead of Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale's meetings with top Trump Administration officials, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in Washington.&nbsp;

Qureshi said the Indian "aggression" of February 26 was a violation of Pakistan's territorial integrity and sovereignty as well as the UN Charter.

He also said that Pakistan's response on February 27 was "purely in self-defence against external aggression".

The FO said the foreign minister "informed Bolton about the de-escalatory measures taken by Pakistan".

Qureshi said that Prime Minister Imran Khan decided to hand over the Indian pilot as a gesture of goodwill towards India. Pakistan wished peace and stability in the region.

He said Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood has returned to Delhi after consultations.

Islamabad would send an official delegation to India on March 14 to discuss the modalities for the operationalisation of the Kartarpur Corridor, also was ready to continue with the weekly meeting at the level of the Directorate General of Military Operations, the Pakistan foreign minister said.

Ambassador Bolton said that he and Secretary of State Pompeo, despite being actively engaged in talks with North Korea in Hanoi, monitored the developments between

India and Pakistan and kept contact with the leadership of two countries to ensure that the security situation in the South Asia region did not deteriorate, the statement said.

Bolton appreciated Pakistan's measures which had helped to lower the tension and urged continued restraint on both sides, it said.

"The need for dialogue between Pakistan and India to find a peaceful resolution to all outstanding disputes was also emphasized," the FO statement said.

"The Foreign Minister cautioned against any Indian misadventure, keeping in view the forthcoming elections. Ambassador Bolton concurred," it said.

It said that Ambassador Bolton also appreciated Pakistan's important role in the Afghan peace process. Both leaders agreed to work together to pursue the process.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Monday briefed US National Security Advisor John Bolton about the measures taken by Islamabad to de-escalate tensions with India following the Pulwama terror attack.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Monday briefed US National Security Advisor John Bolton about the measures taken by Islamabad to de-escalate tensions with India following the Pulwama terror attack. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured Indian pilot, who was handed over to India on March 1. The Foreign Office (FO) said that Qureshi and Bolton, during their telephonic conversation, discussed regional security situation following the Pulwama incident. "The purpose of the call was to provide him Pakistan's perspective on the recent regional developments," the FO said. Qureshi's call to Bolton came ahead of Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale's meetings with top Trump Administration officials, including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, in Washington. Qureshi said the Indian "aggression" of February 26 was a violation of Pakistan's territorial integrity and sovereignty as well as the UN Charter. He also said that Pakistan's response on February 27 was "purely in self-defence against external aggression". The FO said the foreign minister "informed Bolton about the de-escalatory measures taken by Pakistan". Qureshi said that Prime Minister Imran Khan decided to hand over the Indian pilot as a gesture of goodwill towards India. Pakistan wished peace and stability in the region. He said Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood has returned to Delhi after consultations. Islamabad would send an official delegation to India on March 14 to discuss the modalities for the operationalisation of the Kartarpur Corridor, also was ready to continue with the weekly meeting at the level of the Directorate General of Military Operations, the Pakistan foreign minister said. Ambassador Bolton said that he and Secretary of State Pompeo, despite being actively engaged in talks with North Korea in Hanoi, monitored the developments between India and Pakistan and kept contact with the leadership of two countries to ensure that the security situation in the South Asia region did not deteriorate, the statement said. Bolton appreciated Pakistan's measures which had helped to lower the tension and urged continued restraint on both sides, it said. "The need for dialogue between Pakistan and India to find a peaceful resolution to all outstanding disputes was also emphasized," the FO statement said. "The Foreign Minister cautioned against any Indian misadventure, keeping in view the forthcoming elections. Ambassador Bolton concurred," it said. It said that Ambassador Bolton also appreciated Pakistan's important role in the Afghan peace process. Both leaders agreed to work together to pursue the process.

Pak foreign minister Mahmood Qureshi briefs US NSA Bolton about steps taken to de-escalate tensions with India

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday assured her Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, that her government would never allow the country's soil to be used by any terrorist organisation under its "zero tolerance policy".

Dhaka was firmly committed to stamping out terrorism from the South Asian region through bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation, she said after jointly inaugurating four projects in Bangladesh with Prime Minister Modi through video-conferencing.

Terming the spread of radicalism as a "grave threat" not only to the two countries but to the entire region, India and Bangladesh last year resolved to step up anti-terror cooperation.

"We remain steadfast in our resolve to root out the scourge of terrorism from our region and beyond through bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation," Hasina said.

The Bangladesh premier said her government would never allow Bangladesh soil to be used by any terrorist organisation under its "zero tolerance policy" against terrorism "in all its forms and manifestations".

Hasina also expressed her "utmost sympathy" for the family members of the Indian paramilitary police personnel who were killed in last month's terror attack in Pulwama in Kashmir. "We reiterate our strong condemnation of this dastardly act," she said.

A suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14, the incident led to flaring up of tensions between India and Pakistan.

Hasina said that the relations between Dhaka and New Delhi are now a "role model" of good neighbours for the rest of the world as a result of multi-faceted and multi-dimensional cooperation.

"I strongly believe this momentum will continue," she said.

The Bangladesh premier said over the last decade, two countries have witnessed remarkable progress on cooperation in different conventional and unconventional areas like security, power, trade and commerce, energy, connectivity, infrastructure development, environment, renewable energy, education, culture, people-to-people contact and health.

She said at the same time, the two countries have expanded cooperation in new areas like the blue economy and maritime cooperation, peaceful uses of the nuclear energy, cooperation in outer space, internet bandwidth sharing, cyber security etc.

The two prime ministers joined the video-conferencing from their offices in Dhaka and New Delhi and jointly inaugurated the four projects by unveiling the e-plaques.

The four projects launched on Monday include, supply of Double Decker and Single Decker AC and Non-AC Buses and Trucks to Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (under the Second Line of Credit); 36 Community Clinics in five north and northeastern Bangladesh districts bordering India with an aid from Indian government; setting up of 11 Water Treatment Plants in two southwestern cities and the extension of India's National Knowledge Network (NKN) to Bangladesh.

The NKN is a multi-gigabit National Research and Education Network (NREN) which provides a unified high-speed network backbone for educational institutions in India.

Apart from Hasina and Modi, Bangladesh Foreign Minister A K Abdul Momen and his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj also spoke through video-conferencing.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday assured her Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, that her government would never allow the country's soil to be used by any terrorist organisation under its "zero tolerance policy".

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday assured her Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, that her government would never allow the country's soil to be used by any terrorist organisation under its "zero tolerance policy". Dhaka was firmly committed to stamping out terrorism from the South Asian region through bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation, she said after jointly inaugurating four projects in Bangladesh with Prime Minister Modi through video-conferencing. Terming the spread of radicalism as a "grave threat" not only to the two countries but to the entire region, India and Bangladesh last year resolved to step up anti-terror cooperation. "We remain steadfast in our resolve to root out the scourge of terrorism from our region and beyond through bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation," Hasina said. The Bangladesh premier said her government would never allow Bangladesh soil to be used by any terrorist organisation under its "zero tolerance policy" against terrorism "in all its forms and manifestations". Hasina also expressed her "utmost sympathy" for the family members of the Indian paramilitary police personnel who were killed in last month's terror attack in Pulwama in Kashmir. "We reiterate our strong condemnation of this dastardly act," she said. A suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14, the incident led to flaring up of tensions between India and Pakistan. Hasina said that the relations between Dhaka and New Delhi are now a "role model" of good neighbours for the rest of the world as a result of multi-faceted and multi-dimensional cooperation. "I strongly believe this momentum will continue," she said. The Bangladesh premier said over the last decade, two countries have witnessed remarkable progress on cooperation in different conventional and unconventional areas like security, power, trade and commerce, energy, connectivity, infrastructure development, environment, renewable energy, education, culture, people-to-people contact and health. She said at the same time, the two countries have expanded cooperation in new areas like the blue economy and maritime cooperation, peaceful uses of the nuclear energy, cooperation in outer space, internet bandwidth sharing, cyber security etc. The two prime ministers joined the video-conferencing from their offices in Dhaka and New Delhi and jointly inaugurated the four projects by unveiling the e-plaques. The four projects launched on Monday include, supply of Double Decker and Single Decker AC and Non-AC Buses and Trucks to Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (under the Second Line of Credit); 36 Community Clinics in five north and northeastern Bangladesh districts bordering India with an aid from Indian government; setting up of 11 Water Treatment Plants in two southwestern cities and the extension of India's National Knowledge Network (NKN) to Bangladesh. The NKN is a multi-gigabit National Research and Education Network (NREN) which provides a unified high-speed network backbone for educational institutions in India. Apart from Hasina and Modi, Bangladesh Foreign Minister A K Abdul Momen and his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj also spoke through video-conferencing.

Won't allow Bangladeshi soil to be used by any terror outfit: Sheikh Hasina assures PM Modi

As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-of-punjab-takes-control-of-jud-headquarters-in-muridke-and-lahore-201842"> Jaish-e-Mohammed</a>, are active in Pakistan, but no action is being taken against them, a senior Indian official said here on Thursday, warning that New Delhi will carry out operation similar to that of the Balakot airstrike if there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border.

In a pinpointed and swift air strike that lasted less than two minutes, India pounded JeM's biggest training camp in Pakistan on February 26, killing up to 350 terrorists and trainers who were moved there for their protection after the February 14 attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama strike.

Pakistan is a "global epicentre of terrorism and it needs to take verifiable and credible steps against terrorist organisations and terrorists", said the official on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

The official also accused Pakistan and its leadership of being in denial mode and trying to create a war hysteria kind of situation between the two nuclear-weapon states.&nbsp;

"As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of JeM, are still being run in Pakistan and there has been no action against them," the official said.

The Balakot airstrike conducted by India was a counter-terrorism operation, which was well within the international laws. However, a day after on February 27, Pakistan attacked Indian military installation with as many as 20 fighter jets, the official claimed.&nbsp;

"Instead of taking action against terrorist groups, Pakistan escalated the situation and indulged in war hysteria by doing things like declaring emergency in Karachi, blocking air traffic and creating rumours, which is part of its familiar pattern," the official said, adding, "India, on the other hand, exercised restraint."

Islamabad now bears the responsibility to end terrorism, the official said and warned that "India will carry out retaliatory counter-terrorism operation like the one on February 26, deep inside Pakistan, anytime there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border".

Referring to the recent actions taken by Pakistan against several terrorist groups, the official said that these actions are "nothing unusual" as the country takes such steps after every terrorist strike in India.&nbsp;

"These actions", the official described, "are a revolving door policy, under which house arrest of terrorist leaders simply means keeping them in luxurious accommodation". 
They are released once the situation becomes normal, the official said.

But after the Pulwama attack, India has set "a new normal". "For every terrorist attack coming from across the border, India will retaliate and there will be a price that the neighbouring country would have to pay."

Accusing Pakistan of being a state sponsor of terrorism, the official said there is a feeling in India that Islamabad is unlikely to stop funding terror activities "unless the cost of it is too heavy for it to pay".

Asserting that India has the right to self-defence, the official told reporters that New Delhi by successfully carrying out strikes inside Pakistan "has been able to call the Pakistani bluff" on the nuclear front.&nbsp;

"This will not work in the future," the official said and warned Pakistan that "there will be reprisal" for every act of terrorism.

Responding to a question, the official said India has given to the US details of the violation of the end user agreement by Pakistan when it used F-16 fighter jets and advanced missiles against India on February 27.

India, the official said, is very closely engaged with the US and has the support of the Trump administration.&nbsp;

The official also said India is opposed to any IMF bailout packages to Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan has received as many as 21 bailout packages, including seven in the recent past, from the IMF. However, none of them has been able to address the economic woes of Pakistan because the money intended to improve the economy and developmental purposes have been diverted for non-civilian means.&nbsp;

As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of Jaish-e-Mohammed, are active in Pakistan, but no action is being taken against them, a senior Indian official said here on Thursday, warning that New Delhi will carry out operation similar to that of the Balakot airstrike if there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border.

As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of Jaish-e-Mohammed, are active in Pakistan, but no action is being taken against them, a senior Indian official said here on Thursday, warning that New Delhi will carry out operation similar to that of the Balakot airstrike if there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border. In a pinpointed and swift air strike that lasted less than two minutes, India pounded JeM's biggest training camp in Pakistan on February 26, killing up to 350 terrorists and trainers who were moved there for their protection after the February 14 attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama strike. Pakistan is a "global epicentre of terrorism and it needs to take verifiable and credible steps against terrorist organisations and terrorists", said the official on condition of anonymity. The official also accused Pakistan and its leadership of being in denial mode and trying to create a war hysteria kind of situation between the two nuclear-weapon states. "As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of JeM, are still being run in Pakistan and there has been no action against them," the official said. The Balakot airstrike conducted by India was a counter-terrorism operation, which was well within the international laws. However, a day after on February 27, Pakistan attacked Indian military installation with as many as 20 fighter jets, the official claimed. "Instead of taking action against terrorist groups, Pakistan escalated the situation and indulged in war hysteria by doing things like declaring emergency in Karachi, blocking air traffic and creating rumours, which is part of its familiar pattern," the official said, adding, "India, on the other hand, exercised restraint." Islamabad now bears the responsibility to end terrorism, the official said and warned that "India will carry out retaliatory counter-terrorism operation like the one on February 26, deep inside Pakistan, anytime there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border". Referring to the recent actions taken by Pakistan against several terrorist groups, the official said that these actions are "nothing unusual" as the country takes such steps after every terrorist strike in India. "These actions", the official described, "are a revolving door policy, under which house arrest of terrorist leaders simply means keeping them in luxurious accommodation". They are released once the situation becomes normal, the official said. But after the Pulwama attack, India has set "a new normal". "For every terrorist attack coming from across the border, India will retaliate and there will be a price that the neighbouring country would have to pay." Accusing Pakistan of being a state sponsor of terrorism, the official said there is a feeling in India that Islamabad is unlikely to stop funding terror activities "unless the cost of it is too heavy for it to pay". Asserting that India has the right to self-defence, the official told reporters that New Delhi by successfully carrying out strikes inside Pakistan "has been able to call the Pakistani bluff" on the nuclear front. "This will not work in the future," the official said and warned Pakistan that "there will be reprisal" for every act of terrorism. Responding to a question, the official said India has given to the US details of the violation of the end user agreement by Pakistan when it used F-16 fighter jets and advanced missiles against India on February 27. India, the official said, is very closely engaged with the US and has the support of the Trump administration. The official also said India is opposed to any IMF bailout packages to Pakistan. Pakistan has received as many as 21 bailout packages, including seven in the recent past, from the IMF. However, none of them has been able to address the economic woes of Pakistan because the money intended to improve the economy and developmental purposes have been diverted for non-civilian means.

22 terrorist training camps active in Pakistan: Indian official

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/over-200-kg-of-explosives-was-used-in-pulwamas-terror-attack-197469">deadly attack</a> on a convoy of India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which claimed 40 lives in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, made headlines but there are some unsung heroes - the women soldier of CRPF - who witnessed the blast from close quarters.

Among them is Assistant Sub-Inspector Vrinda Sonkwar. Vrinda, along with 29 other women, was part of bus number three in the 78-vehicle CRPF convoy. She had a miraculous escape because the bus which was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/few-kms-from-pulwama-attack-site-kashmiri-muslims-pandits-give-message-of-communal-harmony-201280">destroyed in the attack</a> went ahead and took their position.

Vrinda breaks down every time she remembers the horrific scene but she has no time to cry. Guarding a post office in Srinagar and armed with an AK-47 rifle, she is frisking women who enter the premises.

"We are here to serve the nation. When the attack took place, we took our positions inside the bus and some were outside as well. Some people who died in the attack were my colleagues, I was very angry at that time," she said.

These daredevil women cops are deployed at several key locations in the volatile Kashmir valley to maintain peace. Many of them are deployed not just to deal with law and order issues, but also to thwart any attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorists to derail peace in the Valley.

Their challenges have only heightened after Pulwama attack.

<img alt="women-soldier-crpf" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="068451ae-1c19-49c2-84ed-3c9ac9d81554" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/women-crpf-soldier-guarding.jpg" />

These soldiers say they want to avenge Pulwama attack, but are duty bound. (WION)

But <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-attack-cannot-be-allowed-to-go-unanswered-198875">the attack</a> hasn't lowered their morale; in fact, some of them say their parents and family feel proud of them for working in Kashmir. At CRPF Bemina camp, they are standing in a queue for their routine deployment. Holding their weapons and assault rifles, they move with the loud command of their officer.

"My father wanted to join the army but he couldn't. He feels proud that I am in the CRPF. My father boosted my morale and said keep doing your job," said Pallavi, one of the CRPF personel who is ready to be deployed.

Bishnu Thamai is stationed at Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar, she has to frisk every incoming disciple before letting them inside a sensitive temple located on top of a hillock overlooking the city of Srinagar.

"We are even ready to fight in the war if given orders. We are angry over the martyrdom of our colleagues but we are also duty-bound. We are trained well to deal with any situation," says Thamai, as she looks on.

These women soldiers want to avenge the killing of their colleagues if given an opportunity. But for now, their focus is on keeping the Kashmir valley safe. They are out once again, ready to be deployed at key locations to deal with any situation which may arise. Holding their riot gear and guns, they are ready to tackle any mob.

The deadly attack on a convoy of India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which claimed 40 lives in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, made headlines but there are some unsung heroes - the women soldier of CRPF - who witnessed the blast from close quarters.

The deadly attack on a convoy of India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which claimed 40 lives in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, made headlines but there are some unsung heroes - the women soldier of CRPF - who witnessed the blast from close quarters. Among them is Assistant Sub-Inspector Vrinda Sonkwar. Vrinda, along with 29 other women, was part of bus number three in the 78-vehicle CRPF convoy. She had a miraculous escape because the bus which was destroyed in the attack went ahead and took their position. Vrinda breaks down every time she remembers the horrific scene but she has no time to cry. Guarding a post office in Srinagar and armed with an AK-47 rifle, she is frisking women who enter the premises. "We are here to serve the nation. When the attack took place, we took our positions inside the bus and some were outside as well. Some people who died in the attack were my colleagues, I was very angry at that time," she said. These daredevil women cops are deployed at several key locations in the volatile Kashmir valley to maintain peace. Many of them are deployed not just to deal with law and order issues, but also to thwart any attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorists to derail peace in the Valley. Their challenges have only heightened after Pulwama attack. These soldiers say they want to avenge Pulwama attack, but are duty bound. (WION) But the attack hasn't lowered their morale; in fact, some of them say their parents and family feel proud of them for working in Kashmir. At CRPF Bemina camp, they are standing in a queue for their routine deployment. Holding their weapons and assault rifles, they move with the loud command of their officer. "My father wanted to join the army but he couldn't. He feels proud that I am in the CRPF. My father boosted my morale and said keep doing your job," said Pallavi, one of the CRPF personel who is ready to be deployed. Bishnu Thamai is stationed at Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar, she has to frisk every incoming disciple before letting them inside a sensitive temple located on top of a hillock overlooking the city of Srinagar. "We are even ready to fight in the war if given orders. We are angry over the martyrdom of our colleagues but we are also duty-bound. We are trained well to deal with any situation," says Thamai, as she looks on. These women soldiers want to avenge the killing of their colleagues if given an opportunity. But for now, their focus is on keeping the Kashmir valley safe. They are out once again, ready to be deployed at key locations to deal with any situation which may arise. Holding their riot gear and guns, they are ready to tackle any mob.

Women CRPF soldiers recall Pulwama attack, anger rages

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday said, India wants to have good relations with all its neighbours but Pakistan has made terrorism a state policy.

He was interacting with the Indian community at Paraguay.

"We want to have good relations, including with all our neighbours. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee said you can change friends, but you cannot change your neighbour. Keeping that in mind we are trying our best,"&nbsp;said Vice President Naidu.

"But one of our neighbours has made terrorism a state policy. They are aiding, funding, training terrorists. Time and again, they have been persuaded, they make public commitments, but never stop funding terrorism,"&nbsp;he added.

The Vice President dubbed terrorism as an enemy of humanity and said, "It (terrorism) has no religion. It is mad and bad. It should be eliminated from the globe. That is possible only when the entire international community comes together."

He said that India is capable of fighting with the terrorist on its own. "We do not want any kind of support to fight terror in India. We are capable. We have shown our capacity recently. When they attacked CRPF and killed 40 people, the response was given. IAF not attacked military in Pakistan, didn`t harm a single citizen and precisely hit the target,"&nbsp;said Naidu.

The Vice President also hit out at the opposition parties for questioning the outcome of air strike and said "Now the discussion is going about casualties. It is for them to count the numbers. Yesterday, Home Minister suggested that if anyone has doubts, they can visit Pakistan and inquire Pakistan government. We don`t want war, but can`t be a silent spectator to nonsense going on for a war."

The Vice President is on a two-day visit to the Latin American Country. Venkaiah Naidu is accompanied by a high-level delegation consisting of the Minister of State for Tourism KJ Alphons, Ram Kumar Kashyap, Member of Parliament and senior officials from the Government of India.

Naidu met with the President of the Republic of Paraguay, HE Mario Abdo Benítez, the Vice President, HE Hugo Velázquez, and the President of the National Congress (Senate), HE Silvio Ovelar.

Both sides agreed that terrorism posed a grave threat to global peace and stability, stressing that there could be no justification for acts of terror on any grounds whatsoever.&nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday said, India wants to have good relations with all its neighbours but Pakistan has made terrorism a state policy. He was interacting with the Indian community at Paraguay.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday said, India wants to have good relations with all its neighbours but Pakistan has made terrorism a state policy. He was interacting with the Indian community at Paraguay. "We want to have good relations, including with all our neighbours. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee said you can change friends, but you cannot change your neighbour. Keeping that in mind we are trying our best," said Vice President Naidu. "But one of our neighbours has made terrorism a state policy. They are aiding, funding, training terrorists. Time and again, they have been persuaded, they make public commitments, but never stop funding terrorism," he added. The Vice President dubbed terrorism as an enemy of humanity and said, "It (terrorism) has no religion. It is mad and bad. It should be eliminated from the globe. That is possible only when the entire international community comes together." He said that India is capable of fighting with the terrorist on its own. "We do not want any kind of support to fight terror in India. We are capable. We have shown our capacity recently. When they attacked CRPF and killed 40 people, the response was given. IAF not attacked military in Pakistan, didn`t harm a single citizen and precisely hit the target," said Naidu. The Vice President also hit out at the opposition parties for questioning the outcome of air strike and said "Now the discussion is going about casualties. It is for them to count the numbers. Yesterday, Home Minister suggested that if anyone has doubts, they can visit Pakistan and inquire Pakistan government. We don`t want war, but can`t be a silent spectator to nonsense going on for a war." The Vice President is on a two-day visit to the Latin American Country. Venkaiah Naidu is accompanied by a high-level delegation consisting of the Minister of State for Tourism KJ Alphons, Ram Kumar Kashyap, Member of Parliament and senior officials from the Government of India. Naidu met with the President of the Republic of Paraguay, HE Mario Abdo Benítez, the Vice President, HE Hugo Velázquez, and the President of the National Congress (Senate), HE Silvio Ovelar. Both sides agreed that terrorism posed a grave threat to global peace and stability, stressing that there could be no justification for acts of terror on any grounds whatsoever.

Pakistan has made terrorism state policy: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu at Paraguay

One civilian was injured Friday in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the LoC in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing towards Indian posts and villages in Kamalkote area of Uri in Baramulla district on Thursday evening, the officials said.&nbsp;

They said the intermittent firing continued throughout the night. One civilian has been injured in the firing.&nbsp;

Indian Army has responded to the Pakistani firing inadequate measure, the officials said.&nbsp;

The ceasefire violation by the Pakistani troops comes as tensions between India and Pakistan rose following the February 14 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in which 40 CRPF soldiers were killed.&nbsp;

Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group claimed responsibility for the attack. 
&nbsp;

One civilian was injured Friday in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the LoC in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing towards Indian posts and villages in Kamalkote area of Uri in Baramulla district on Thursday evening, the officials said.

One civilian was injured Friday in a ceasefire violation by Pakistani troops along the LoC in Uri sector of Jammu and Kashmir, officials said. Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing towards Indian posts and villages in Kamalkote area of Uri in Baramulla district on Thursday evening, the officials said. They said the intermittent firing continued throughout the night. One civilian has been injured in the firing. Indian Army has responded to the Pakistani firing inadequate measure, the officials said. The ceasefire violation by the Pakistani troops comes as tensions between India and Pakistan rose following the February 14 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in which 40 CRPF soldiers were killed. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group claimed responsibility for the attack.

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Uri sector, civilian injured

A day after Indian Air Force carried out air strikes<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-indian-air-strike-destroys-jem-terror-camps-in-pakistan-200014"> across the Line of Control(LoC)</a>, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in a televised address to the nation said that "if a war happens it won't be in my&nbsp;control nor in PM Modi's control."&nbsp;

"We had a conversation with the Army chief and we didn't take any action as we didn't know what kind of damage we had suffered," he said after Indian Air Force carried out strikes in Pakistan's Balakot in a pre-dawn attack on Monday.

After India's attack, Pakistan Air Force(PAF) aircrafts entered India's Nowshera sector on Wednesday&nbsp;morning. India's<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/shot-down-one-pakistan-air-force-plane-1-mig-21-aircraft-lost-pilot-missing-in-action-india-200042"> external affairs spokesman&nbsp;Ravish Kumar</a> said Indian forces shot down one PAF plane, however, India lost one MiG-21 aircraft inside Pakistan territory while declaring the pilot "missing in action".

"It would have been irresponsible from our side if we would have taken action then, we didn't want to do any collateral damage, we just wanted to tell them we can retaliate," he said.

"It is very important to understand that all wars happened in the world were a miscalculated war. Similarly is war on terror," "Wars have always been miscalculated," he reiterated.

"Can we afford miscalculation with the kind of weapons both&nbsp;nations have," the Pakistan prime minister asked.

"I would again like to say what happened in Pulwama, if you want to talk on terrorism we are ready, this is not in Pakistan’s interest for their land to be used for terrorism," PM Imran Khan told the nation on television.

"Their was no dispute, we were ready for talks," the Pakistan prime minister added. 
&nbsp;

A day after Indian Air Force carried out air strikes across the Line of Control(LoC), Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in a televised address to the nation said that "if a war happens it won't be in my control nor in PM Modi's control.

A day after Indian Air Force carried out air strikes across the Line of Control(LoC), Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in a televised address to the nation said that "if a war happens it won't be in my control nor in PM Modi's control." "We had a conversation with the Army chief and we didn't take any action as we didn't know what kind of damage we had suffered," he said after Indian Air Force carried out strikes in Pakistan's Balakot in a pre-dawn attack on Monday. After India's attack, Pakistan Air Force(PAF) aircrafts entered India's Nowshera sector on Wednesday morning. India's external affairs spokesman Ravish Kumar said Indian forces shot down one PAF plane, however, India lost one MiG-21 aircraft inside Pakistan territory while declaring the pilot "missing in action". "It would have been irresponsible from our side if we would have taken action then, we didn't want to do any collateral damage, we just wanted to tell them we can retaliate," he said. "It is very important to understand that all wars happened in the world were a miscalculated war. Similarly is war on terror," "Wars have always been miscalculated," he reiterated. "Can we afford miscalculation with the kind of weapons both nations have," the Pakistan prime minister asked. "I would again like to say what happened in Pulwama, if you want to talk on terrorism we are ready, this is not in Pakistan’s interest for their land to be used for terrorism," PM Imran Khan told the nation on television. "Their was no dispute, we were ready for talks," the Pakistan prime minister added.

If India wants talks on terrorism, we are ready: Pakistan PM Imran in address to the nation

France has condemned the "terrible" Pulwama terror attack that killed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-party-meeting-hails-iaf-strikes-lauds-clean-operation-with-no-casualties-199899">40 Indian soldiers</a> and asked Pakistan to put an end to the terrorist groups operating from its soil.

Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed on February 14 in Jammu and Kashmir when a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their bus in Pulwama district, sparking outrage in the country.

"France most firmly condemns the terrible attack perpetrated on February 14 against Indian security forces in Pulwama, for which the terrorist group, Jaish-e-Mohammed, has claimed responsibility," said the acting spokesperson of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.

"France recognises India's legitimacy to ensure its security against cross-border terrorism and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/four-bombs-fell-in-jabba-near-balakot-pak-army-spokesman-ghafoor-199896">asks Pakistan to put an end</a> to the operations of terrorist groups established on its territory," the official said in a statement.

France, which stands by India in the fight against terrorism in all its forms, is fully engaged in mobilising the international community to sanction the terrorists responsible for this attack and freezing their financing networks, it said.

The statement came days after a senior French source told PTI that France will be moving a proposal at the UN to ban Masood Azhar, chief of the UN-proscribed JeM which has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terror attack.

"France solemnly calls on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint so as to avert any risk of military escalation and preserve strategic stability in the region," the statement said.

The resumption of bilateral dialogue between Islamabad and New Delhi is necessary to initiate a peaceful settlement of differences, it said.

India launched a major diplomatic offensive against Islamabad after the Pulwama attack and highlighted Pakistan's role in using terrorism as an instrument of state policy.

The international community led by the US pressed Pakistan to deny safe haven to terror groups operating form its soil and bring the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack to justice.

India has asked Pakistan to take immediate and verifiable action against terrorists and terror groups operating from territories under its control.

New Delhi also announced the withdrawal of the Most Favoured Nation status for Pakistan and hiked the customs duty by 200 per cent on goods originating from Pakistan.

France has condemned the "terrible" Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 Indian soldiers and asked Pakistan to put an end to the terrorist groups operating from its soil.

France has condemned the "terrible" Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 Indian soldiers and asked Pakistan to put an end to the terrorist groups operating from its soil. Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed on February 14 in Jammu and Kashmir when a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their bus in Pulwama district, sparking outrage in the country. "France most firmly condemns the terrible attack perpetrated on February 14 against Indian security forces in Pulwama, for which the terrorist group, Jaish-e-Mohammed, has claimed responsibility," said the acting spokesperson of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. "France recognises India's legitimacy to ensure its security against cross-border terrorism and asks Pakistan to put an end to the operations of terrorist groups established on its territory," the official said in a statement. France, which stands by India in the fight against terrorism in all its forms, is fully engaged in mobilising the international community to sanction the terrorists responsible for this attack and freezing their financing networks, it said. The statement came days after a senior French source told PTI that France will be moving a proposal at the UN to ban Masood Azhar, chief of the UN-proscribed JeM which has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terror attack. "France solemnly calls on India and Pakistan to exercise restraint so as to avert any risk of military escalation and preserve strategic stability in the region," the statement said. The resumption of bilateral dialogue between Islamabad and New Delhi is necessary to initiate a peaceful settlement of differences, it said. India launched a major diplomatic offensive against Islamabad after the Pulwama attack and highlighted Pakistan's role in using terrorism as an instrument of state policy. The international community led by the US pressed Pakistan to deny safe haven to terror groups operating form its soil and bring the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack to justice. India has asked Pakistan to take immediate and verifiable action against terrorists and terror groups operating from territories under its control. New Delhi also announced the withdrawal of the Most Favoured Nation status for Pakistan and hiked the customs duty by 200 per cent on goods originating from Pakistan.

We recognise India's legitimacy to ensure security against cross-border terrorism: France

Leaders of different political parties on Tuesday congratulated the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-strikes-on-terror-launchpads-meticulous-planning-led-to-successful-air-force-mission-199830">Indian Air Force(IAF)</a> at an all-party meeting on operation targeting a terrorist camp in Pakistan, with the Congress saying that it will support security forces in their endeavour to finish terrorism coming into India from outside.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj briefed the leaders, who included <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/four-bombs-fell-in-jabba-near-balakot-pak-army-spokesman-ghafoor-199896">CPM's Sitaram Yechury</a>, TMC's Derek O'Brian, Omar Abdullah of National Conference and Bhartruhari Mahtab from BJD, on the air strike carried out in the early hours.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Arun Jaitley, both members of the Cabinet Committee on Security like Swaraj, were also present in the meeting. Azad told reporters after the meeting that political parties lauded the IAF strikes to destroy terror camps in a "clean" operation as there were no civilian casualties.&nbsp;

"We will support our security forces in their endeavour to finish terrorism coming into Indian from outside. The good part was that it was a very clean operation," he said.&nbsp;

NCP's Praful Patel, BSP's Satish Mishra and BJP ally Ramdas Athawale also attended the meeting.&nbsp;

In a swift and precise air strike, India bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's(JeM)&nbsp;biggest training camp in Pakistan early Tuesday, killing over 350 terrorists, trainers and senior commanders, less than two weeks after the terror outfit carried out the suicide attack in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives.&nbsp;

Following an all-party meeting called by the government to brief leaders on the operation, the Congress asserted that it will support security forces in their efforts to finish terrorism coming into India from outside as parties praised the IAF for its action.

The prime minister appeared at three public events and hinted at the IAF operation to loud applause from his audiences, even though he did not make any direct reference to the action.

"My soul says today is the day to reiterate what I had expressed in 2014 that I won't let my country down. I pledge to the motherland that I will not let her head bow. Today is a day to pay homage to India's bravehearts. I want to assure people of the country that the nation is in safe hands," Modi said at a rally in Churu in Rajasthan.

In a pinpointed and swift air strike, India pounded JeM's&nbsp;biggest training camp in Pakistan early Tuesday, killing up to 350 terrorists and trainers who were moved there for their protection after the Pulwama attack, officials said.

As the news came out, Rahul Gandhi tweeted his praise for the IAF. "I salute the pilots of the IAF," he said.

Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee echoed the view, saying "IAF also means India's Amazing Fighters. Jai Hind."

Joining in, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati offered her salute and respect for the IAF but added that had the Modi government given a free hand to the armed forces earlier terrorist attacks in Pulwama, Pathankot and Uri would have been avoided. 
&nbsp;

Leaders of different political parties on Tuesday congratulated the Indian Air Force(IAF) at an all-party meeting on operation targeting a terrorist camp in Pakistan, with the Congress saying that it will support security forces in their endeavour to finish terrorism coming into India from outside.

Leaders of different political parties on Tuesday congratulated the Indian Air Force(IAF) at an all-party meeting on operation targeting a terrorist camp in Pakistan, with the Congress saying that it will support security forces in their endeavour to finish terrorism coming into India from outside. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj briefed the leaders, who included CPM's Sitaram Yechury, TMC's Derek O'Brian, Omar Abdullah of National Conference and Bhartruhari Mahtab from BJD, on the air strike carried out in the early hours. Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Arun Jaitley, both members of the Cabinet Committee on Security like Swaraj, were also present in the meeting. Azad told reporters after the meeting that political parties lauded the IAF strikes to destroy terror camps in a "clean" operation as there were no civilian casualties. "We will support our security forces in their endeavour to finish terrorism coming into Indian from outside. The good part was that it was a very clean operation," he said. NCP's Praful Patel, BSP's Satish Mishra and BJP ally Ramdas Athawale also attended the meeting. In a swift and precise air strike, India bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's(JeM) biggest training camp in Pakistan early Tuesday, killing over 350 terrorists, trainers and senior commanders, less than two weeks after the terror outfit carried out the suicide attack in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. Following an all-party meeting called by the government to brief leaders on the operation, the Congress asserted that it will support security forces in their efforts to finish terrorism coming into India from outside as parties praised the IAF for its action. The prime minister appeared at three public events and hinted at the IAF operation to loud applause from his audiences, even though he did not make any direct reference to the action. "My soul says today is the day to reiterate what I had expressed in 2014 that I won't let my country down. I pledge to the motherland that I will not let her head bow. Today is a day to pay homage to India's bravehearts. I want to assure people of the country that the nation is in safe hands," Modi said at a rally in Churu in Rajasthan. In a pinpointed and swift air strike, India pounded JeM's biggest training camp in Pakistan early Tuesday, killing up to 350 terrorists and trainers who were moved there for their protection after the Pulwama attack, officials said. As the news came out, Rahul Gandhi tweeted his praise for the IAF. "I salute the pilots of the IAF," he said. Trinamool Congress chief and West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee echoed the view, saying "IAF also means India's Amazing Fighters. Jai Hind." Joining in, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati offered her salute and respect for the IAF but added that had the Modi government given a free hand to the armed forces earlier terrorist attacks in Pulwama, Pathankot and Uri would have been avoided.

All-party meeting hails IAF strikes; lauds 'clean' operation with no casualties

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