According to a report, the European nation of Denmark is the world's best place to raise children. Last year, the country stood second to Sweden which bagged the second spot this year.&nbsp;

On number three, Norway retained its spot the same as last year followed by Canada and Netherlands.&nbsp;

While Australia is the ninth-best place in the world to raise children, the United Kingdom stood at number 11. The United States was ranked 18th on the list.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/survey-reveals-three-of-worlds-top-10-fastest-growing-cities-are-from-kerala-275133">Survey reveals three of world's top 10 fastest-growing cities are from Kerala</a>

Some cheer was in store for India as it moved up from last year's 65th spot to 59th position this year.&nbsp;

The survey, titled Best Countries Report, is being conducted annually since 2016 by US News &amp; World Report and the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hungary-announces-free-fertility-treatment-to-couples-in-a-bid-to-boost-its-declining-population-273629">Hungary announces free fertility treatment to couples in a bid to boost its declining population</a>

The survey on determining the best countries for raising children is done keeping in mind attributes like human rights, family-friendly environment, status on gender equality, income equality, safety and the state of public education and health care systems in countries across the globe.

According to a report, the European nation of Denmark is the world's best place to raise children. Last year, the country stood second to Sweden which bagged the second spot this year.

According to a report, the European nation of Denmark is the world's best place to raise children. Last year, the country stood second to Sweden which bagged the second spot this year. On number three, Norway retained its spot the same as last year followed by Canada and Netherlands. While Australia is the ninth-best place in the world to raise children, the United Kingdom stood at number 11. The United States was ranked 18th on the list. Also read: Survey reveals three of world's top 10 fastest-growing cities are from Kerala Some cheer was in store for India as it moved up from last year's 65th spot to 59th position this year. The survey, titled Best Countries Report, is being conducted annually since 2016 by US News & World Report and the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Also read: Hungary announces free fertility treatment to couples in a bid to boost its declining population The survey on determining the best countries for raising children is done keeping in mind attributes like human rights, family-friendly environment, status on gender equality, income equality, safety and the state of public education and health care systems in countries across the globe.

Denmark, Sweden, Norway are world's best countries to raise children; India bags 59th spot

After the ''Howdy, Modi!'' event in Houston in September last year, a grand reception is now being planned for United States President Donald Trump for his possible visit to India next month.

According to reports, the event dubbed as ''Kem chho, Mr President'' will be held in Gujarat's Ahmedabad.

The event is slated to take place during one of the three days stipulated for Trump's visit.

Trump will most likely attend the event in Ahmedabad after visiting New Delhi, the Indian capital.

Meanwhile, Americans of Gujarati origin are likely to join the ''Howdy Trump''&nbsp;show.

The sheer number of Indian-origin voters in the US, especially Gujaratis is politically significant.

<h6><img alt="gggg" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98637496-8bb2-48d4-927c-03c19be55301" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%284%29_20.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, September 24, 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

According to sources, Trump and PM Modi are also expected to sign a short-term trade deal that could grant the US companies more access to Indian markets and restore benefits to India that were withdrawn last summer.

Besides that, they will also discuss a longer-term trade pact that could include a free trade agreement.

Reports further suggested that the trade deal was moving in a positive direction, with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal constantly staying in touch with his American counterparts. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
However, it's imperative to remember that days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his second term, the Trump administration terminated India’s eligibility for the preferential trade system.

The US president has also routinely railed against India alleging it of high tariffs and trade imbalance.

<h6><img alt="iii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcda8d60-cafd-44de-b850-f33c1c9c3966" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_43.jpg" /> 
Image:&nbsp;US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, September 24, 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

However, ties between the two nations have improved considerably on the security front. Especially when the United States warned Pakistan on issues of terrorism and extended its support on Kashmir at the United Nations Security Council.

The joint appearance of Trump and Modi at the 'Howdy Modi!' outreach to the Indian diaspora was seen as a testament to the chemistry shared by the two world leaders.

Trump's visit to India is aimed at solidifying existing ties and taking partnership between the two nations to the next level.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-isnt-like-youve-got-china-on-your-border-when-trump-shocked-modi-with-his-remark-274653">It isn't like you've got China on your border: When Trump shocked Modi with his remark</a>

After the ''Howdy, Modi!'' event in Houston in September last year, a grand reception is now being planned for United States President Donald Trump for his possible visit to India next month.

After the ''Howdy, Modi!'' event in Houston in September last year, a grand reception is now being planned for United States President Donald Trump for his possible visit to India next month. According to reports, the event dubbed as ''Kem chho, Mr President'' will be held in Gujarat's Ahmedabad. The event is slated to take place during one of the three days stipulated for Trump's visit. Trump will most likely attend the event in Ahmedabad after visiting New Delhi, the Indian capital. Meanwhile, Americans of Gujarati origin are likely to join the ''Howdy Trump'' show. The sheer number of Indian-origin voters in the US, especially Gujaratis is politically significant. Image: US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, September 24, 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly | AFP According to sources, Trump and PM Modi are also expected to sign a short-term trade deal that could grant the US companies more access to Indian markets and restore benefits to India that were withdrawn last summer. Besides that, they will also discuss a longer-term trade pact that could include a free trade agreement. Reports further suggested that the trade deal was moving in a positive direction, with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal constantly staying in touch with his American counterparts. However, it's imperative to remember that days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his second term, the Trump administration terminated India’s eligibility for the preferential trade system. The US president has also routinely railed against India alleging it of high tariffs and trade imbalance. Image: US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold a meeting at UN Headquarters in New York, September 24, 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly | AFP However, ties between the two nations have improved considerably on the security front. Especially when the United States warned Pakistan on issues of terrorism and extended its support on Kashmir at the United Nations Security Council. The joint appearance of Trump and Modi at the 'Howdy Modi!' outreach to the Indian diaspora was seen as a testament to the chemistry shared by the two world leaders. Trump's visit to India is aimed at solidifying existing ties and taking partnership between the two nations to the next level. Also read: It isn't like you've got China on your border: When Trump shocked Modi with his remark

'Howdy Trump'? US President to visit Ahmedabad, Delhi in February

India has summoned a senior official of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/scuffle-breaks-out-between-bajrang-dal-and-security-forces-near-pakistan-high-commission-272718">Pakistan High Commission</a> and lodged a strong protest over the recent cases of abduction of minor girls from the minority Hindu community in Pakistan, and urged for the safe return of them to their families, government sources said. 
 
The development comes after incidents of kidnapping of minor girls from the Hindu community came to light in Pakistan earlier this month. 
 
Two minor girls, Shanti Meghwad and Sarmi Meghwad, belonging to the minority Hindu community were abducted on January 14. They belong to Umar Village in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-facing-a-locust-crisis-more-than-40-crops-under-risk-263563">Tharparkar</a> of Sindh province. 
 
In another incident, a minor girl, Mehak, also belonging to the minority Hindu community, was abducted from Jacobabad district of Sindh province on January 15. 
 
"Pakistan has been conveyed the grave concerns as expressed amongst various quarters of the Indian civil society at such a shocking and deplorable incident involving minor girls from the minority Hindu community in Pakistan. The incidents have been strongly condemned and asked for the immediate safe return of the girls to their families," government sources said. 
 
India has time and again lodged several protests over the abduction and forced marriage of women from the Hindu community in the neighboring country. 
 
Recently, an angry group of local residents pelted stones at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-chishti-the-man-who-incited-nankana-sahib-gurdwara-violence-arrested-272549">Gurdwara Nankana Sahib</a> in Pakistan on January 3. The group was led by the family of a boy who had allegedly abducted Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur, daughter of gurdwara's panthi, last year. 
 
India had strongly condemned the "wanton acts of destruction and desecration" at Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev, and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community. 
 
Days later, the body of Sikh youth, identified as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/india-condemns-sikh-youth-murder-stone-pelting-at-gurudwara-in-pakistan-272349">Ravinder Singh</a>, was found in the Chamkani police station area of Peshawar. The deceased was the brother of an Islamabad-based journalist, Harmeet Singh. 
 
India had also shared strong concerns raised by members of civil society, parliamentarians, and others at the "continued persecution of religious and ethnic minorities" in Pakistan.

India has summoned a senior official of the Pakistan High Commission and lodged a strong protest over the recent cases of abduction of minor girls from the minority Hindu community in Pakistan, and urged for the safe return of them to their families, government sources said.

India has summoned a senior official of the Pakistan High Commission and lodged a strong protest over the recent cases of abduction of minor girls from the minority Hindu community in Pakistan, and urged for the safe return of them to their families, government sources said. The development comes after incidents of kidnapping of minor girls from the Hindu community came to light in Pakistan earlier this month. Two minor girls, Shanti Meghwad and Sarmi Meghwad, belonging to the minority Hindu community were abducted on January 14. They belong to Umar Village in Tharparkar of Sindh province. In another incident, a minor girl, Mehak, also belonging to the minority Hindu community, was abducted from Jacobabad district of Sindh province on January 15. "Pakistan has been conveyed the grave concerns as expressed amongst various quarters of the Indian civil society at such a shocking and deplorable incident involving minor girls from the minority Hindu community in Pakistan. The incidents have been strongly condemned and asked for the immediate safe return of the girls to their families," government sources said. India has time and again lodged several protests over the abduction and forced marriage of women from the Hindu community in the neighboring country. Recently, an angry group of local residents pelted stones at Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan on January 3. The group was led by the family of a boy who had allegedly abducted Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur, daughter of gurdwara's panthi, last year. India had strongly condemned the "wanton acts of destruction and desecration" at Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev, and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community. Days later, the body of Sikh youth, identified as Ravinder Singh, was found in the Chamkani police station area of Peshawar. The deceased was the brother of an Islamabad-based journalist, Harmeet Singh. India had also shared strong concerns raised by members of civil society, parliamentarians, and others at the "continued persecution of religious and ethnic minorities" in Pakistan.

India calls Pak official, lodges strong protest over abduction of Hindu girls

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-1st-odi-virat-kohli-looks-forward-to-equal-sachin-tendulkar-and-go-past-ricky-ponting-274161">Virat Kohli</a> and Co are set to face the Aussies for the second One Day international in Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. It is a do-or-die fixture for India to save themselves from a second consecutive series defeat against Australia in India.

After a thumping win over India by 10 wickets in the first ODI, Australia will be eyeing to clinch the series against the men in blue.

Also, read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/finch-warner-slay-india-australia-win-first-odi-by-10-wickets-274267">Finch, Warner slay India; Australia win first ODI by 10 wickets</a>

In a pre-match press conference, Shreyas Iyer assured that India would come back strong in the series.&nbsp; 
"We have not lost the series and we can still come back strong and that's what we have discussed in the dressing room after the game. We need to back ourselves and believe in ourselves," he said.

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Going BANG 💥💢 at the nets ahead of the 2nd ODI in Rajkot <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Paytm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Paytm</a> <a href="https://t.co/7y9NCBc7bv">pic.twitter.com/7y9NCBc7bv</a>
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Earlier, Virat Kolhi said that he was open to experiments in the batting order, and Shreyas Iyer came in to bat at No 3. The decision massively backfired as both Shreyas and Virat were out cheap.&nbsp;

The Indian skipper is likely to return to his original position (No 3) to face the mighty Australia.&nbsp;

Mitchell Starc's bowling was lethal in the previous match. Indian batsmen were seen getting prepared in nets by replicating Starc's pace and angles with the throw-downs.

Whereas, Australia's most lethal batsmen Marnus Labushchagne has not yet come to down to bat against India.&nbsp;

Rajkot's pitch is favourable to batsmen and the match is predicted to be a high scoring match.

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Pitch prep in Rajkot! 
 
The second <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> ODI starts 7pm AEDT tonight, live on Foxtel + Kayo Sports. <a href="https://t.co/oMupqDlkvO">pic.twitter.com/oMupqDlkvO</a>
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1218003238168907777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Yuzvendra Chahal is likely to replace Kuldeep Yadav, as Ravindra Jadeja's place is safe because the match is being held on his home ground. Rishabh Pant is pout of the match after the concussion, he might get replaced by either Kadhar Jadhav or Manish Pandey.&nbsp; 
KL Rahul is likely to don the wicket keeping gloves.&nbsp;

 
Probable XI: Rohit, Dhawan, Kohli, Rahul, Iyer, Pandey/Jadhav, Jadeja, Shardul Thakur/Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav/Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah.

Australia will probably go unchanged after the victory in Wankhede, they are expected to play with the same XI.

Probable XI: Aaron Finch, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, &nbsp;Ashton Turner, Alex Carey, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa

Squads:

India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Lokesh Rahul(wk), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Kedar Jadhav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Navdeep Saini, Shivam Dube

Australia: David Warner, Aaron Finch(c), Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Ashton Turner, Alex Carey(wk), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, D Arcy Short

Virat Kohli and Co are set to face the Aussies for the second One Day international in Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. It is a do-or-die fixture for India to save themselves from a second consecutive series defeat against Australia in India.

Virat Kohli and Co are set to face the Aussies for the second One Day international in Saurashtra Cricket Association, Rajkot. It is a do-or-die fixture for India to save themselves from a second consecutive series defeat against Australia in India. After a thumping win over India by 10 wickets in the first ODI, Australia will be eyeing to clinch the series against the men in blue. Also, read- Finch, Warner slay India; Australia win first ODI by 10 wickets In a pre-match press conference, Shreyas Iyer assured that India would come back strong in the series. "We have not lost the series and we can still come back strong and that's what we have discussed in the dressing room after the game. We need to back ourselves and believe in ourselves," he said. Going BANG 💥💢 at the nets ahead of the 2nd ODI in Rajkot #TeamIndia #INDvAUS @Paytm pic.twitter.com/7y9NCBc7bv — BCCI (@BCCI) January 16, 2020 × Earlier, Virat Kolhi said that he was open to experiments in the batting order, and Shreyas Iyer came in to bat at No 3. The decision massively backfired as both Shreyas and Virat were out cheap. The Indian skipper is likely to return to his original position (No 3) to face the mighty Australia. Mitchell Starc's bowling was lethal in the previous match. Indian batsmen were seen getting prepared in nets by replicating Starc's pace and angles with the throw-downs. Whereas, Australia's most lethal batsmen Marnus Labushchagne has not yet come to down to bat against India. Rajkot's pitch is favourable to batsmen and the match is predicted to be a high scoring match. Pitch prep in Rajkot! The second #INDvAUS ODI starts 7pm AEDT tonight, live on Foxtel + Kayo Sports. pic.twitter.com/oMupqDlkvO — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 17, 2020 × Yuzvendra Chahal is likely to replace Kuldeep Yadav, as Ravindra Jadeja's place is safe because the match is being held on his home ground. Rishabh Pant is pout of the match after the concussion, he might get replaced by either Kadhar Jadhav or Manish Pandey. KL Rahul is likely to don the wicket keeping gloves. Probable XI: Rohit, Dhawan, Kohli, Rahul, Iyer, Pandey/Jadhav, Jadeja, Shardul Thakur/Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav/Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah. Australia will probably go unchanged after the victory in Wankhede, they are expected to play with the same XI. Probable XI: Aaron Finch, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Ashton Turner, Alex Carey, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa Squads: India: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Lokesh Rahul(wk), Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Kedar Jadhav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Navdeep Saini, Shivam Dube Australia: David Warner, Aaron Finch(c), Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Ashton Turner, Alex Carey(wk), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Handscomb, D Arcy Short

Ind vs Aus 2nd ODI: Virat Kohli set to return at No 3 as Australia eye series win

Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her Ukrainian partner Nadiia Kichenok have progressed into the finals in Hobart Internationals on Friday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sania-cruises-into-womens-doubles-semifinals-of-hobart-international-274670">Sania Mirza cruises into women's doubles semifinals in Hobart International</a>

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Former World No.1 <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MirzaSania</a> and partner Nadiia Kichenok earn their spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/HobartTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HobartTennis</a> doubles final --&gt; <a href="https://t.co/95FZWrfmsw">https://t.co/95FZWrfmsw</a> <a href="https://t.co/WacJHXqUIx">pic.twitter.com/WacJHXqUIx</a>
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The two staged a comeback against Marie Bouzkova and Tamara Zidansek after trailing in the first set. They won 7-6 first and carried on their momentum to dominatingly beat them 6-2 in the second game. &nbsp;The match against the Czech-Slovenian duo lasted in 1 hour and 33 minutes.

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Nadiia Kichenok and <a href="https://twitter.com/MirzaSania?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MirzaSania</a> advance to the <a href="https://twitter.com/HobartTennis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HobartTennis</a> doubles final! 
 
They defeat Zidansek and Bouzkova 7-6(3), 6-2. <a href="https://t.co/mW1cFFraCx">pic.twitter.com/mW1cFFraCx</a>
— WTA (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/1218036883801833473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday, Sania and Nadiia beat the American pair Vania King and Christina McHale 6-2, 4-6 and 10-4 in the quarters.

The 33-year-old Sania is returning to WTA after a break of two years. She battled injuries before taking a break in April 2018 to give birth to her child Izhaan. She is married to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik.

Sania previously was a part of the China Open that was played in October 2017. She has won a total of six Grand Slam titles including Wimbledon women's doubles in 2015. She bid adieu from the singles competition in 2013.

&nbsp;She is India's most successful Indian woman tennis player. She was a former World No 1 in women's doubles and currently ranks at No 5. She attained her career-high of rank number 27 in the WTA singles chart.

Sania Mirza and Nadiia Kichenovak will face China's Zhang Shuai and Peng Shuai in the finals. Peng Shuai is Sania's former partner.&nbsp;

Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her Ukrainian partner Nadiia Kichenok have progressed into the finals in Hobart Internationals on Friday. Also read: Sania Mirza cruises into women's doubles semifinals in Hobart International Former World No.

Indian tennis player Sania Mirza and her Ukrainian partner Nadiia Kichenok have progressed into the finals in Hobart Internationals on Friday. Also read: Sania Mirza cruises into women's doubles semifinals in Hobart International Former World No.1 @MirzaSania and partner Nadiia Kichenok earn their spot in the @HobartTennis doubles final --> https://t.co/95FZWrfmsw pic.twitter.com/WacJHXqUIx — WTA (@WTA) January 17, 2020 × The two staged a comeback against Marie Bouzkova and Tamara Zidansek after trailing in the first set. They won 7-6 first and carried on their momentum to dominatingly beat them 6-2 in the second game. The match against the Czech-Slovenian duo lasted in 1 hour and 33 minutes. Nadiia Kichenok and @MirzaSania advance to the @HobartTennis doubles final! They defeat Zidansek and Bouzkova 7-6(3), 6-2. pic.twitter.com/mW1cFFraCx — WTA (@WTA) January 17, 2020 × On Thursday, Sania and Nadiia beat the American pair Vania King and Christina McHale 6-2, 4-6 and 10-4 in the quarters. The 33-year-old Sania is returning to WTA after a break of two years. She battled injuries before taking a break in April 2018 to give birth to her child Izhaan. She is married to Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Malik. Sania previously was a part of the China Open that was played in October 2017. She has won a total of six Grand Slam titles including Wimbledon women's doubles in 2015. She bid adieu from the singles competition in 2013. She is India's most successful Indian woman tennis player. She was a former World No 1 in women's doubles and currently ranks at No 5. She attained her career-high of rank number 27 in the WTA singles chart. Sania Mirza and Nadiia Kichenovak will face China's Zhang Shuai and Peng Shuai in the finals. Peng Shuai is Sania's former partner.

Tennis: Indian Ace Sania Mirza through to women's doubles finals at Hobart International

Malaysia is talking to the Indian government and trade officials in a bid to resolve concerns over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/malaysian-pm-expresses-concern-after-india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-274231">New Delhi's new palm oil import restrictions</a>, a minister in Kuala Lumpur said on Thursday amid a trade spat between the countries.

India's Hindu nationalist government has repeatedly objected to Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad speaking out against recent policies which critics say discriminate against Muslims. Malaysia is a Muslim-majority nation.

India, the world's biggest buyer of edible oils, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-from-malaysia-following-pm-mahathir-mohamad-caa-remark-273134">last week placed curbs on imports of refined palm oil</a> and has informally asked traders to stop importing all kinds of palm oil from Malaysia, the world's second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil.

Reuters reported on Wednesday, citing sources, that New Delhi could also restrict imports of petroleum, aluminium ingots, liquefied natural gas, computer parts and microprocessors from Malaysia.

However, India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said New Delhi had not imposed any curbs on imports from Malaysia and Turkey, and that the government was not contemplating any restrictions on the two countries.

"This year, we foresee more challenges in some of our major markets," Teresa Kok, Malaysia's primary industries minister who is in charge of palm oil, told an industry conference, referring to India's new palm import rules.

Kok said the Indian high commissioner, the ambassador in Malaysia, was one of the people she was in touch with over the issue. 
It is "important for us to engage with them further through diplomatic channels and stakeholders," she told reporters on the sidelines of the event. "We will continue to engage."

In some good news for Malaysian palm sellers, Bangladesh's farm minister told Reuters his country was open to buying more from Malaysia if it offers competitive rates.

The South Asian country buys mainly from Indonesia, which is expected to be the biggest beneficiary of the Malaysia-India dispute.

Mahathir, the 94-year-old premier who is vocal on issues concerning the Muslim world, ignored a question from Reuters on the spat with India on the sidelines of a separate event on Thursday.

On Tuesday, he said Malaysia was concerned about the palm oil curbs but indicated he would continue to speak out against "wrong things" even if it costs his country financially.

Last month, he criticised India's new religion-based citizenship laws, which critics say discriminate against Muslims, and its policies in the Muslim-majority region of Kashmir which is also claimed by Pakistan.

India was Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, buying 4.4 million tonnes. In 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations do not improve, Indian traders say.

To make up for the potential loss, Malaysian officials say they are trying to sell more to countries such as Pakistan, the Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, Jordan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

But replacing a massive buyer like India will not be easy, and there have been calls for both countries to talk it outputting aside any "personal or diplomatic ego".

The other concern for Malaysia is that following the signing of an initial trade deal between the United States and China on Wednesday, China could buy more soy oil from the United States and less Malaysian palm oil. 
&nbsp;

Malaysia is talking to the Indian government and trade officials in a bid to resolve concerns over New Delhi's new palm oil import restrictions, a minister in Kuala Lumpur said on Thursday amid a trade spat between the countries.

Malaysia is talking to the Indian government and trade officials in a bid to resolve concerns over New Delhi's new palm oil import restrictions, a minister in Kuala Lumpur said on Thursday amid a trade spat between the countries. India's Hindu nationalist government has repeatedly objected to Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad speaking out against recent policies which critics say discriminate against Muslims. Malaysia is a Muslim-majority nation. India, the world's biggest buyer of edible oils, last week placed curbs on imports of refined palm oil and has informally asked traders to stop importing all kinds of palm oil from Malaysia, the world's second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil. Reuters reported on Wednesday, citing sources, that New Delhi could also restrict imports of petroleum, aluminium ingots, liquefied natural gas, computer parts and microprocessors from Malaysia. However, India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said New Delhi had not imposed any curbs on imports from Malaysia and Turkey, and that the government was not contemplating any restrictions on the two countries. "This year, we foresee more challenges in some of our major markets," Teresa Kok, Malaysia's primary industries minister who is in charge of palm oil, told an industry conference, referring to India's new palm import rules. Kok said the Indian high commissioner, the ambassador in Malaysia, was one of the people she was in touch with over the issue. It is "important for us to engage with them further through diplomatic channels and stakeholders," she told reporters on the sidelines of the event. "We will continue to engage." In some good news for Malaysian palm sellers, Bangladesh's farm minister told Reuters his country was open to buying more from Malaysia if it offers competitive rates. The South Asian country buys mainly from Indonesia, which is expected to be the biggest beneficiary of the Malaysia-India dispute. Mahathir, the 94-year-old premier who is vocal on issues concerning the Muslim world, ignored a question from Reuters on the spat with India on the sidelines of a separate event on Thursday. On Tuesday, he said Malaysia was concerned about the palm oil curbs but indicated he would continue to speak out against "wrong things" even if it costs his country financially. Last month, he criticised India's new religion-based citizenship laws, which critics say discriminate against Muslims, and its policies in the Muslim-majority region of Kashmir which is also claimed by Pakistan. India was Malaysia's biggest buyer of palm oil in 2019, buying 4.4 million tonnes. In 2020, purchases could fall below 1 million tonnes if relations do not improve, Indian traders say. To make up for the potential loss, Malaysian officials say they are trying to sell more to countries such as Pakistan, the Philippines, Myanmar, Vietnam, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, Jordan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. But replacing a massive buyer like India will not be easy, and there have been calls for both countries to talk it outputting aside any "personal or diplomatic ego". The other concern for Malaysia is that following the signing of an initial trade deal between the United States and China on Wednesday, China could buy more soy oil from the United States and less Malaysian palm oil.

As wider trade dispute looms, Malaysia talks to India over palm curbs

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The United Kingdom on Thursday slammed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-issue-attempt-made-by-pakistan-through-china-to-misuse-unsc-platform-says-india-274661">Pakistan</a> and said that the Imran Khan-led government must do more to act against terrorism if it wants to prevent the FATF blacklisting.

The UK asked for "non-reversible" action against terrorism from Pakistan.

"All the evidence against Pakistan has been put on the table. Pakistan has taken some action...there has been some progress. Pakistan has to do a lot more and take non-reversible action," Gareth Bayley, UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Director for South Asia, said during an interactive session at Raisina Dialogue 2020.

Bayley added that it is clear that terror groups are operating from Pakistan's territory and pose "a serious challenge to the Pakistan government and the South Asian region as well".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-calls-for-stricter-actions-from-pakistan-on-crackdown-of-terror-groups-269771">FATF calls for stricter actions from Pakistan on crackdown of terror groups</a>

Pakistan, at present, is on FATF's greylist since 2018. The watchdog has granted an extension to Islamabad till February 2020. Pakistan faces the possibility of getting blacklisted by the FATF if it fails to comply with the remaining 22 out of 27 points related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing.

Bayley also reacted over the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-trying-daily-to-prevent-military-confrontation-rouhani-274650">tensions between the United States&nbsp;and Iran</a> after US strikes at Iraq's Baghdad International Airport killed Iran's top military commander Qasem Soleimani on January 3. He called for a de-escalation of tension between the two nations.

Bayley added that the UK has a "really deep" counter-terrorism dialogue with India and can share the experience with India "just as India has a lot of experience to share".&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The United Kingdom on Thursday slammed Pakistan and said that the Imran Khan-led government must do more to act against terrorism if it wants to prevent the FATF blacklisting.

The United Kingdom on Thursday slammed Pakistan and said that the Imran Khan-led government must do more to act against terrorism if it wants to prevent the FATF blacklisting. The UK asked for "non-reversible" action against terrorism from Pakistan. "All the evidence against Pakistan has been put on the table. Pakistan has taken some action...there has been some progress. Pakistan has to do a lot more and take non-reversible action," Gareth Bayley, UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Director for South Asia, said during an interactive session at Raisina Dialogue 2020. Bayley added that it is clear that terror groups are operating from Pakistan's territory and pose "a serious challenge to the Pakistan government and the South Asian region as well". Also read: FATF calls for stricter actions from Pakistan on crackdown of terror groups Pakistan, at present, is on FATF's greylist since 2018. The watchdog has granted an extension to Islamabad till February 2020. Pakistan faces the possibility of getting blacklisted by the FATF if it fails to comply with the remaining 22 out of 27 points related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing. Bayley also reacted over the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran after US strikes at Iraq's Baghdad International Airport killed Iran's top military commander Qasem Soleimani on January 3. He called for a de-escalation of tension between the two nations. Bayley added that the UK has a "really deep" counter-terrorism dialogue with India and can share the experience with India "just as India has a lot of experience to share". (With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan should do more to take non-reversible action against terror: United Kingdom

Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos who is in India for an annual Amazon event yesterday visited the Mahatma Gandhi memorial in New Delhi. Also read: 'E-commerce firms shouldn't offer heavy discounts' — Antitrust chief says ahead Amazon CEO Bezos' visit Bezos posted a video where he can be seen in a white kurta and an orange half-jacket, carrying a colourful wreath of flowers on the lawns of the memorial at Raj Ghat.

Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos who is in India for an annual Amazon event yesterday visited the Mahatma Gandhi memorial in New Delhi. Also read: 'E-commerce firms shouldn't offer heavy discounts' — Antitrust chief says ahead Amazon CEO Bezos' visit Bezos posted a video where he can be seen in a white kurta and an orange half-jacket, carrying a colourful wreath of flowers on the lawns of the memorial at Raj Ghat. Just landed in India and spent a beautiful afternoon paying my respects to someone who truly changed the world. “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Gandhi. pic.twitter.com/xDXAT9cBgf — Jeff Bezos (@JeffBezos) January 14, 2020 × The e-retailer giant's chief executive's visit to India comes at a time when the country's anti-trust body competition commission of India is looking into alleged unfair practices by Amazon and Walmart's Flipkart. Bezos will appear on stage at Amazon’s Smbhav event for a fireside chat alongside Amit Agarwal, who heads amazon’s India operations. According to the sources, Bezos has also sought meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other government officials. Meanwhile, a complaint by the Delhi Vyapar Mahasangh, whose members include thousands of traders dealing in smartphones and related accessories. Have accused amazon of anti-competitive practices like preferential listing, exclusive tie-ups and private labels. The traders have said they will hold a massive protest during Bezos' visit to India. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), an organisation representing 70 million physical retailers, said it will dissent across 300 cities during Bezos' stay in the nation. CAIT has since 2015 pursued a fight against online retailers Amazon and Walmart-controlled Flipkart, blaming them for profound limits and spurning India's foreign investment rules. Both the retail conglomerates have denied the claims.

Jeff Bezos' India visit: Amazon CEO pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, to address  'Smbhav'

Congress General Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-extends-wishes-to-people-on-lohri-273925">Priyanka Gandi Vadra</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday targeted Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/p-chidambaram-attacks-modi-govt-over-sliding-economy-and-unemployment-274135">Narendra Modi</a> led Centre for failing to control the rising prices of vegetables and essential commodities. 
 
The Congress leader also accused the Central government of not only picking pockets of the citizens but also taking away their livelihood.

"The prices of vegetables and other edible commodities are getting out of reach of the common man. What will the poor eat when vegetables, oil, pulses and flour turn expensive. The poor are not even getting employment due to the economic recession. The BJP government has not just picked the pockets of the poor but also kicked on their stomach," she tweeted in the morning in Hindi.

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Government of India: The annual rate of inflation, based on monthly WPI, stood at 2.59% (provisional) for the month of December, 2019 (over December,2018) as compared to 0.58% (provisional) for the previous month. <a href="https://t.co/Dx5xQB3WtB">pic.twitter.com/Dx5xQB3WtB</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1216975178749497345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It should be noted that Vadra's comments came just a day after data showed that retail inflation rose to a five-and-half year high of 7.35 per cent in December last year.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandi Vadra on Tuesday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Centre for failing to control the rising prices of vegetables and essential commodities.

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandi Vadra on Tuesday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Centre for failing to control the rising prices of vegetables and essential commodities. The Congress leader also accused the Central government of not only picking pockets of the citizens but also taking away their livelihood. "The prices of vegetables and other edible commodities are getting out of reach of the common man. What will the poor eat when vegetables, oil, pulses and flour turn expensive. The poor are not even getting employment due to the economic recession. The BJP government has not just picked the pockets of the poor but also kicked on their stomach," she tweeted in the morning in Hindi. Government of India: The annual rate of inflation, based on monthly WPI, stood at 2.59% (provisional) for the month of December, 2019 (over December,2018) as compared to 0.58% (provisional) for the previous month. pic.twitter.com/Dx5xQB3WtB — ANI (@ANI) January 14, 2020 × It should be noted that Vadra's comments came just a day after data showed that retail inflation rose to a five-and-half year high of 7.35 per cent in December last year.

Priyanka Gandhi slams Modi govt for 'rising inflation'

Congress, on Monday, called for&nbsp;the opposition parties for a&nbsp;meeting&nbsp;to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/just-look-up-you-will-find-cctvs-on-every-lane-sisodia-to-shah-272797">Aam Aadmi Party</a>, Bahujan Samaj Party and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trinamool-congress-supremo-mamata-banerjee-to-boycott-opposition-meet-in-delhi-273257">Trinamool Congress</a> are not likely to attend.&nbsp;

Discussions will be held on several issues including the amended <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-playing-political-games-over-citizenship-amendment-act-says-prime-minister-narendra-modi-273683">Citizenship Amendment Act</a> (CAA), National Population Register (NPR), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and the violence in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-jamia-students-need-our-support-says-cong-leader-shashi-tharoor-273821">Jawaharlal Nehru University</a> (JNU) during the meeting scheduled to be held in Parliament annexe at 2 pm. 
 
Trinamool Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party and Aam Aadmi Party will not be taking part in the meeting.

Citing "betrayal" by Congress in Rajasthan, BSP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-gandhi-to-mayawati-she-must-visit-rajasthan-to-meet-kota-victimss-families-272134">Mayawati</a> on Monday said that her party will not attend the meeting of opposition parties, scheduled to take place later in the day.

"As is known, despite BSP supporting Congress government in Rajasthan from outside, they broke our MLAs for a second time and inducted them in their own party, which is a complete betrayal," Mayawati said in a tweet.

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3. वैसे भी बीएसपी CAA/NRC आदि के विरोध में है। केन्द्र सरकार से पुनः अपील है कि वह इस विभाजनकारी व असंवैधानिक कानून को वापिस ले। साथ ही, JNU व अन्य शिक्षण संस्थानों में भी छात्रों का राजनीतिकरण करना यह अति-दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण। 3/3
— Mayawati (@Mayawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati/status/1216558471656529920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Under such circumstances, BSP attending today's Opposition meeting called by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hemant-soren-in-delhi-to-discuss-cabinet-expansion-with-congress-leaders-273822">Congress</a> will be demoralising for people of the party in Rajasthan. So, BSP will not take part in this meeting," she added.

Stressing that her party opposes the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), she said, "Once again, I appeal to the Central government to take back this divisive and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-priyanka-instigated-riots-by-supporting-anti-caa-drive-home-minister-amit-shah-272323">unconstitutional law</a>." 
 
In December last year, Opposition leaders had met President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/declaration-of-amaravathi-as-capital-was-unconstitutional-ysrcp-mla-to-president-kovind-272733">Ram Nath Kovind</a> and lodged their protest over police action against students over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Congress, on Monday, called for the opposition parties for a meeting to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Trinamool Congress are not likely to attend.

Congress, on Monday, called for the opposition parties for a meeting to discuss the political dynamics and current situation of the country which Aam Aadmi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party and Trinamool Congress are not likely to attend. Discussions will be held on several issues including the amended Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Population Register (NPR), National Register of Citizens (NRC), and the violence in Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) during the meeting scheduled to be held in Parliament annexe at 2 pm. Trinamool Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party and Aam Aadmi Party will not be taking part in the meeting. Citing "betrayal" by Congress in Rajasthan, BSP chief Mayawati on Monday said that her party will not attend the meeting of opposition parties, scheduled to take place later in the day. "As is known, despite BSP supporting Congress government in Rajasthan from outside, they broke our MLAs for a second time and inducted them in their own party, which is a complete betrayal," Mayawati said in a tweet. 3. वैसे भी बीएसपी CAA/NRC आदि के विरोध में है। केन्द्र सरकार से पुनः अपील है कि वह इस विभाजनकारी व असंवैधानिक कानून को वापिस ले। साथ ही, JNU व अन्य शिक्षण संस्थानों में भी छात्रों का राजनीतिकरण करना यह अति-दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण। 3/3 — Mayawati (@Mayawati) January 13, 2020 × "Under such circumstances, BSP attending today's Opposition meeting called by Congress will be demoralising for people of the party in Rajasthan. So, BSP will not take part in this meeting," she added. Stressing that her party opposes the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), she said, "Once again, I appeal to the Central government to take back this divisive and unconstitutional law." In December last year, Opposition leaders had met President Ram Nath Kovind and lodged their protest over police action against students over the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Citizenship Act Protest: AAP, BSP not to attend today's opposition meeting called by Congress

Pakistan on Monday summoned Indian Charge d'Affaires Gaurav Ahluwalia and lodged a protest over the alleged ceasefire violation by the Indian troops along the Line of Control (LoC) last week.

Ahluwalia was summoned by Director General (South Asia and SAARC) Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, who condemned the ceasefire violation by the Indian troops in Kotkotera and Karela Sectors on January 11, as per the statement of Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Chaudhry claimed that the "indiscriminate and unprovoked" firing by the Indian forces claimed the life of 24-year-old Muhammad Ishtiaque, who was a resident of Chowki village, the statement read.

New Delhi has repeatedly urged Pakistan to "respect" the 2003 ceasefire arrangement between the two countries.

Pakistan on Monday summoned Indian Charge d'Affaires Gaurav Ahluwalia and lodged a protest over the alleged ceasefire violation by the Indian troops along the Line of Control (LoC) last week.

Pakistan on Monday summoned Indian Charge d'Affaires Gaurav Ahluwalia and lodged a protest over the alleged ceasefire violation by the Indian troops along the Line of Control (LoC) last week. Ahluwalia was summoned by Director General (South Asia and SAARC) Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, who condemned the ceasefire violation by the Indian troops in Kotkotera and Karela Sectors on January 11, as per the statement of Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Chaudhry claimed that the "indiscriminate and unprovoked" firing by the Indian forces claimed the life of 24-year-old Muhammad Ishtiaque, who was a resident of Chowki village, the statement read. New Delhi has repeatedly urged Pakistan to "respect" the 2003 ceasefire arrangement between the two countries.

Pakistan summons Indian envoy over 'ceasefire violations' along LoC

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-%26-economy/walmart-microsoft-in-partnership-to-use-cloud-tech-152321">Walmart</a>&nbsp;Inc, the world's largest retailer, has fired 56&nbsp;of its&nbsp;India&nbsp;executives&nbsp;as part of its&nbsp;restructuring&nbsp;in the country, three&nbsp;sources&nbsp;with direct knowledge told Reuters.

The move underscores the struggles&nbsp;Walmart&nbsp;has faced in expanding its wholesale business in&nbsp;India.

Reuters reported the firings earlier on Monday, citing three people with direct knowledge of the matter, adding the move had mostly affected executives in&nbsp;Walmart's real estate division, which takes care of store expansion, as the wholesale business model did not bring in expected growth.

Eight of the 56 executives fired were in "senior management" roles and the rest from middle or lower management, Krish Iyer, President and CEO of&nbsp;Walmart&nbsp;India said in a statement.

"We are also looking for ways to operate more efficiently, which requires us to review our corporate structure to ensure that we are organised in the right way," Iyer said, adding the fired executives had been offered enhanced severance benefits.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/walmart-told-us-government-indias-e-commerce-rules-regressive-warned-of-trade-impact-235131">India's e-commerce rules regressive, potential to hurt trade ties: Walmart told US government</a>

The Bentonville, Arkansas&nbsp;based company currently operates 28 wholesale stores where it sells goods to small shopkeepers, and not to retail consumers.

The firings mostly affected&nbsp;executives&nbsp;in the company's real estate division because the growth in the wholesale model has not been that robust, two of the&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said.

"It's happening because the focus is shifting to e-commerce rather than physical (stores)," said one source, who declined to be identified as the decision is not public.

Walmart&nbsp;has placed bold bets on&nbsp;India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-proposes-new-e-commerce-regulations-with-focus-on-data-rules-199214">e-commerce</a> sector.

In 2018, it paid $16 billion to acquire a majority stake in&nbsp;India's online marketplace <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-&amp;-economy/walmart-completes-deal-to-acquire-77-stake-in-flipkart-160020">Flipkart</a>, in its biggest global acquisition.

The second source added that while&nbsp;Walmart&nbsp;could slow down the pace of opening new wholesale stores, the focus will increasingly be on boosting sales through business-to-business and retail e-commerce.

Some of the&nbsp;executives&nbsp;were sacked last week and more could be let go on Monday, two&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said.

Walmart&nbsp;has&nbsp;around&nbsp;600 staff in its&nbsp;India&nbsp;head office out of a total of&nbsp;around&nbsp;5,300 nationally, one of the&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said.

Walmart Inc, the world's largest retailer, has fired 56 of its India executives as part of its restructuring in the country, three sources with direct knowledge told Reuters.

Walmart Inc, the world's largest retailer, has fired 56 of its India executives as part of its restructuring in the country, three sources with direct knowledge told Reuters. The move underscores the struggles Walmart has faced in expanding its wholesale business in India. Reuters reported the firings earlier on Monday, citing three people with direct knowledge of the matter, adding the move had mostly affected executives in Walmart's real estate division, which takes care of store expansion, as the wholesale business model did not bring in expected growth. Eight of the 56 executives fired were in "senior management" roles and the rest from middle or lower management, Krish Iyer, President and CEO of Walmart India said in a statement. "We are also looking for ways to operate more efficiently, which requires us to review our corporate structure to ensure that we are organised in the right way," Iyer said, adding the fired executives had been offered enhanced severance benefits. Also read: India's e-commerce rules regressive, potential to hurt trade ties: Walmart told US government The Bentonville, Arkansas based company currently operates 28 wholesale stores where it sells goods to small shopkeepers, and not to retail consumers. The firings mostly affected executives in the company's real estate division because the growth in the wholesale model has not been that robust, two of the sources said. "It's happening because the focus is shifting to e-commerce rather than physical (stores)," said one source, who declined to be identified as the decision is not public. Walmart has placed bold bets on India's e-commerce sector. In 2018, it paid $16 billion to acquire a majority stake in India's online marketplace Flipkart, in its biggest global acquisition. The second source added that while Walmart could slow down the pace of opening new wholesale stores, the focus will increasingly be on boosting sales through business-to-business and retail e-commerce. Some of the executives were sacked last week and more could be let go on Monday, two sources said. Walmart has around 600 staff in its India head office out of a total of around 5,300 nationally, one of the sources said.

Walmart sacks 56 executives in India as part of restructuring

The United Nations has thanked India for the timely payment of its regular budget assessment dues. India is the fourth nations for doing so, paying its dues ahead of the February 1, 2020 deadline.&nbsp;

India paid $23,396,496 in total to the United Nations on January 10. Armenia, Portugal and Ukraine were the three countries ahead of India in paying their dues on time.&nbsp;

India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin tweeted on the same saying &nbsp;"Very few have already made it..."

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Very few have already made it... 
Hope many, many more make it... 
 
Check out which <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> members r on <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> 2020 Honor Roll already.<a href="https://t.co/9puqL8Zlrd">https://t.co/9puqL8Zlrd</a> <a href="https://t.co/HLFhI34kFN">pic.twitter.com/HLFhI34kFN</a>
— Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkbaruddinIndia/status/1215826742499315712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Very few have already made it... Hope many, many more make it... Check out which @UN members r &nbsp;on @UN 2020 Honor Roll already," Akbaruddin's tweet read.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-among-34-un-nations-to-pay-regular-annual-dues-within-stipulated-time-254631">India among 34 UN&nbsp;nations to pay regular annual dues within stipulated time</a>

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In October 2019, the United Nations shared a document which showed India among 34 nations that paid their regular annual dues within the stipulated time of 30 days.&nbsp;

Out of 129, only 34 members paid their regular budget assessments in full within the 30-day due period specified in the UN's Financial Regulation.

The UN's operating budget for 2018-2019 was close to $5.4 billion which didn't include the money for peacekeeping operations. India's contribution was $23,253,808 last year.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke about the United Nation's worst deficit in nearly a decade last year.&nbsp;

"The organisation runs the risk of depleting its liquidity reserves by the end of the month and defaulting on payments to staff and vendors," an official statement read.&nbsp;

The United Nations has thanked India for the timely payment of its regular budget assessment dues. India is the fourth nations for doing so, paying its dues ahead of the February 1, 2020 deadline.

The United Nations has thanked India for the timely payment of its regular budget assessment dues. India is the fourth nations for doing so, paying its dues ahead of the February 1, 2020 deadline. India paid $23,396,496 in total to the United Nations on January 10. Armenia, Portugal and Ukraine were the three countries ahead of India in paying their dues on time. India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin tweeted on the same saying "Very few have already made it..." Very few have already made it... Hope many, many more make it... Check out which @UN members r on @UN 2020 Honor Roll already.https://t.co/9puqL8Zlrd pic.twitter.com/HLFhI34kFN — Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) January 11, 2020 × "Very few have already made it... Hope many, many more make it... Check out which @UN members r on @UN 2020 Honor Roll already," Akbaruddin's tweet read. Also read: India among 34 UN nations to pay regular annual dues within stipulated time × In October 2019, the United Nations shared a document which showed India among 34 nations that paid their regular annual dues within the stipulated time of 30 days. Out of 129, only 34 members paid their regular budget assessments in full within the 30-day due period specified in the UN's Financial Regulation. The UN's operating budget for 2018-2019 was close to $5.4 billion which didn't include the money for peacekeeping operations. India's contribution was $23,253,808 last year. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke about the United Nation's worst deficit in nearly a decade last year. "The organisation runs the risk of depleting its liquidity reserves by the end of the month and defaulting on payments to staff and vendors," an official statement read.

India becomes fourth nation to pay UN dues on time, world body thanks New Delhi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../we-dominated-the-series-shikhar-dhawan-india- beat-sri-lanka-to-sweep-the-series-273519">Lasith Malinga</a> said Sunday he was ready to stand down as Sri Lanka's Twenty20 skipper after the team's humiliating 2-0 loss to India in their latest foreign tour.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-t20i-ind-vs-lanka-virat-kohli-and-jasprit-bumrah-break-records-after-emphatic-victory-over-sri-lanka-273577">Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah shatter records as India claim series win against Sri Lanka</a>

Returning from the series, the 36-year-old told reporters that Sri Lanka was just not good enough to make an impact in the 20 over game.

He said Sri Lankan bowlers weren't able to restrict opponents while the batsmen were incapable of putting up the 170 runs needed for a fighting chance in a match.

"We don't have that," Malinga said, adding that it was unfair to expect a winning performance from the team given they were ranked just ninth in the world when returned to the captaincy just over a year ago.

But he added that he was "ready to accept" his responsibility for the team's performance.&nbsp;

"I am ready any time. I am ready to quit," he said.

Malinga led Sri Lanka to the T20 World Cup title in 2014 and remained in charge until early 2016.

His return to the top job in December 2018 was a surprise as he had lost his spot in the team after recurring injuries forced him to sit out several tournaments.

Frictions were evident in the Sri Lankan team under Malinga's leadership, the local media reported.

"There seems to be deep divisions in the side. As captain, he has also sidelined his predecessors" including Thisara Perera and Angelo Mathews, the paper said.

The first match in Guwahati was abandoned after rain, but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../india-vs-sri-lanka-2nd-t20i-india-thrash-sri- lanka-by-7-wickets-in-the-second-t20i-take-1-0-lead-272801">India won the second </a>by India by seven wickets and the third by 78 runs.

Lasith Malinga said Sunday he was ready to stand down as Sri Lanka's Twenty20 skipper after the team's humiliating 2-0 loss to India in their latest foreign tour.

Lasith Malinga said Sunday he was ready to stand down as Sri Lanka's Twenty20 skipper after the team's humiliating 2-0 loss to India in their latest foreign tour. Also read: Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah shatter records as India claim series win against Sri Lanka Returning from the series, the 36-year-old told reporters that Sri Lanka was just not good enough to make an impact in the 20 over game. He said Sri Lankan bowlers weren't able to restrict opponents while the batsmen were incapable of putting up the 170 runs needed for a fighting chance in a match. "We don't have that," Malinga said, adding that it was unfair to expect a winning performance from the team given they were ranked just ninth in the world when returned to the captaincy just over a year ago. But he added that he was "ready to accept" his responsibility for the team's performance. "I am ready any time. I am ready to quit," he said. Malinga led Sri Lanka to the T20 World Cup title in 2014 and remained in charge until early 2016. His return to the top job in December 2018 was a surprise as he had lost his spot in the team after recurring injuries forced him to sit out several tournaments. Frictions were evident in the Sri Lankan team under Malinga's leadership, the local media reported. "There seems to be deep divisions in the side. As captain, he has also sidelined his predecessors" including Thisara Perera and Angelo Mathews, the paper said. The first match in Guwahati was abandoned after rain, but India won the second by India by seven wickets and the third by 78 runs.

Malinga ready to quit after T20 debacle in India

Reaffirming close India-Russia strategic ties, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-is-new-model-of-international-contact-russian-envoy-to-india-261083">Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev</a> has said Moscow's ties with New Delhi is "second to none".

Speaking to WION, Kudashev said, "Our relationship with India is second to none. This is a relationship which is a privileged strategic partnership."

"We supply topmost technology and weapons, committed to Indian industries like nuclear," he added. &nbsp;

The comments come days before Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov's India visit next week. PM Modi will travel to Russia in May and a return visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin can be expected towards the end of the year.&nbsp;

On Kashmir, he reiterated his government's stand saying, "Kashmir is an internal matter of India, it belongs to the constitutional space of India. We always consider the internal affairs of your country."

When asked about the envoy's recent visit to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Kudashev said, while he hasn't received an "official invitation" but "as far as India inviting other envoys are concerned, it is a sovereign matter of India. I do not feel obliged to comment on the matter."

"No doubt as far as geopolitics in Kashmir is concerned, if somebody has some doubts or issues, let them travel, it is my personal comment," he said.&nbsp;

Russia is also going to train Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan programme the first Indian manned mission to space. On the programme, the envoy said, "space is established entity of our cooperation and we have been willing to contribute... based on our common conviction of peacefull and open outerspace".

Reaffirming close India-Russia strategic ties, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev has said Moscow's ties with New Delhi is "second to none". Speaking to WION, Kudashev said, "Our relationship with India is second to none.

Reaffirming close India-Russia strategic ties, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev has said Moscow's ties with New Delhi is "second to none". Speaking to WION, Kudashev said, "Our relationship with India is second to none. This is a relationship which is a privileged strategic partnership." "We supply topmost technology and weapons, committed to Indian industries like nuclear," he added. The comments come days before Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov's India visit next week. PM Modi will travel to Russia in May and a return visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin can be expected towards the end of the year. On Kashmir, he reiterated his government's stand saying, "Kashmir is an internal matter of India, it belongs to the constitutional space of India. We always consider the internal affairs of your country." When asked about the envoy's recent visit to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Kudashev said, while he hasn't received an "official invitation" but "as far as India inviting other envoys are concerned, it is a sovereign matter of India. I do not feel obliged to comment on the matter." "No doubt as far as geopolitics in Kashmir is concerned, if somebody has some doubts or issues, let them travel, it is my personal comment," he said. Russia is also going to train Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan programme the first Indian manned mission to space. On the programme, the envoy said, "space is established entity of our cooperation and we have been willing to contribute... based on our common conviction of peacefull and open outerspace".

Our ties with New Delhi second to none: Russian envoy to India

Thousands of small-scale traders in India are planning to organise protests against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-to-tweak-proposed-content-regulations-to-ease-burden-on-some-sources-272997">Amazon.com</a> Inc founder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/worlds-richest-get-richer-adding-12-trillion-to-their-combined-wealth-271083">Jeff Bezos</a>, who will visit the country next week for a company event and potential meetings with government officials.

Bezos will participate in an Amazon event in capital New Delhi aimed at connecting with small and medium-sized enterprises, three sources told reporters.

He has also sought meetings with the prime minister and other government officials, with conversations expected to centre around e-commerce, one of the sources familiar with the matter said.

Details of Bezos' visit, including his arrival date and the duration of his stay, are not known.

Amazon did not respond to a request to confirm the visit. The prime minister's office also did not respond to requests for comment.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-holds-meeting-on-gst-simplification-in-delhi-262629">Confederation of All India Traders</a> (CAIT), a group representing roughly 70 million brick-and-mortar retailers, said it will protest across 300 cities during Bezos' stay in the country.

CAIT has since 2015 waged a battle against online retailers Amazon and Walmart-controlled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/start-up-revolution-new-age-billionaires-leaving-boardrooms-to-focus-on-new-business-270238">Flipkart</a>, accusing them of deep discounts and flouting India's foreign investment rules.

Both e-tailers have denied the allegations.

Amazon has previously said its platform provides business opportunities to thousands of small sellers, artisans, weavers and women entrepreneurs. But CAIT is not convinced.

"We plan to organise peaceful rallies against Jeff Bezos in all major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata as well as smaller towns and cities," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-looks-into-flipkart-amazon-festive-discounts-after-retailer-complaints-256043">Praveen Khandelwal</a>, the group's secretary-general told reporters.

"We expect to mobilise at least 100,000 traders in the protests."

With its 1.3 billion population and the world's second-biggest smartphone user base that relies on cheap data for social media and online shopping, India is a key market for US&nbsp;retailers Amazon and Walmart to grow their business.

Discounts on their platforms have helped lure Indians to shop online for everything from groceries to large electronic devices, a phenomenon which traders say has unfairly hurt their business.

New Delhi introduced rules last year to protect nearly 130 million people dependent on small-scale retail, a key voter base, by deterring large online discounts.

The rules forced e-commerce firms to change their business structures, drawing criticism from the United States and straining the two countries' trade ties.

The federal commerce ministry is reviewing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flipkart-amazon-others-rush-to-pull-vaping-devices-after-india-ban-250626">complaints</a> and evidence filed by CAIT against Flipkart and Amazon, reporters&nbsp;reported previously.

Thousands of small-scale traders in India are planning to organise protests against Amazon.com Inc founder Jeff Bezos, who will visit the country next week for a company event and potential meetings with government officials.

Thousands of small-scale traders in India are planning to organise protests against Amazon.com Inc founder Jeff Bezos, who will visit the country next week for a company event and potential meetings with government officials. Bezos will participate in an Amazon event in capital New Delhi aimed at connecting with small and medium-sized enterprises, three sources told reporters. He has also sought meetings with the prime minister and other government officials, with conversations expected to centre around e-commerce, one of the sources familiar with the matter said. Details of Bezos' visit, including his arrival date and the duration of his stay, are not known. Amazon did not respond to a request to confirm the visit. The prime minister's office also did not respond to requests for comment. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), a group representing roughly 70 million brick-and-mortar retailers, said it will protest across 300 cities during Bezos' stay in the country. CAIT has since 2015 waged a battle against online retailers Amazon and Walmart-controlled Flipkart, accusing them of deep discounts and flouting India's foreign investment rules. Both e-tailers have denied the allegations. Amazon has previously said its platform provides business opportunities to thousands of small sellers, artisans, weavers and women entrepreneurs. But CAIT is not convinced. "We plan to organise peaceful rallies against Jeff Bezos in all major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata as well as smaller towns and cities," Praveen Khandelwal, the group's secretary-general told reporters. "We expect to mobilise at least 100,000 traders in the protests." With its 1.3 billion population and the world's second-biggest smartphone user base that relies on cheap data for social media and online shopping, India is a key market for US retailers Amazon and Walmart to grow their business. Discounts on their platforms have helped lure Indians to shop online for everything from groceries to large electronic devices, a phenomenon which traders say has unfairly hurt their business. New Delhi introduced rules last year to protect nearly 130 million people dependent on small-scale retail, a key voter base, by deterring large online discounts. The rules forced e-commerce firms to change their business structures, drawing criticism from the United States and straining the two countries' trade ties. The federal commerce ministry is reviewing complaints and evidence filed by CAIT against Flipkart and Amazon, reporters reported previously.

Amazon boss Jeff Bezos to face 'protests' from traders during India trip

As India finished&nbsp;a stylish series win against Sri Lanka, skipper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../with-proficient-run-scoring-virat-kohli-proves- why-he-is-the-king-of-the-decade-270044">Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;and bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah have continued their dominance when it comes to setting new records.

On Friday, Virat Kohli became&nbsp;the fastest captain to record 11,000 international runs. He achieved this feat after he scored 26 runs in just 17 balls.&nbsp;

<img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a3fe01d9-fae9-461a-8c51-66d3b07953be" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2814%29_7.jpg" /> 
[ Virat Kohli during 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka (Courtesy: Twitter/ @BCCI) ]

King Kohli took just 196 innings to&nbsp;break&nbsp;Ricky Ponting's record, who was the previous best in the list with 252 innings.&nbsp;

Kohli is the second Indian skipper to complete 11,000 run-mark after MS Dhoni accomplished it within 324 innings.&nbsp;

The Indian captain is overall the sixth skipper to achieve this feat. The list includes cricketing greats such as Graeme Smith (264 innings), Alan Border (316) and Stephen Fleming.

List of captains with most runs

1.) Ricky Ponting - 15440

2.) Graeme Smith - 14878

3.) Stephen Fleming - 11561

4.) MS Dhoni - 11207

5.) Allan Border - 11062

6.) Virat Kohli- 11,000+*&nbsp;

In an ongoing tussle of scoring most runs in T20Is, Virat Kohli once again surpassed his teammate Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-getter.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dominated-the-series-shikhar-dhawan-india-beat-sri-lanka-to-sweep-the-series-273519">'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series</a>

Also, frontline pacer Jasprit Bumrah became the leading wicket-taker for India in T20Is,

The 26-year old surpassed R Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal after he claimed his 53rd wicket in the very first over of Sri Lankan innings by dismissing&nbsp;Danushka Gunathilaka for just 1.

BCCI also tweeted to congratulate the bowler.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
BOOOM 💥💥 
 
Jasprit Bumrah is now the leading wicket-taker in T20Is for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🎯🎯 <a href="https://t.co/7PWeaq2Fyj">pic.twitter.com/7PWeaq2Fyj</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1215681203073761280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier, India thrashed Sri Lanka by 78 runs to seal the series 2-0. The first match of the series was washed out. India will now play a three-match ODI series against Australia which will begin from 14th January.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

As India finished a stylish series win against Sri Lanka, skipper Virat Kohli and bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah have continued their dominance when it comes to setting new records.

As India finished a stylish series win against Sri Lanka, skipper Virat Kohli and bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah have continued their dominance when it comes to setting new records. On Friday, Virat Kohli became the fastest captain to record 11,000 international runs. He achieved this feat after he scored 26 runs in just 17 balls. [ Virat Kohli during 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka (Courtesy: Twitter/ @BCCI) ] King Kohli took just 196 innings to break Ricky Ponting's record, who was the previous best in the list with 252 innings. Kohli is the second Indian skipper to complete 11,000 run-mark after MS Dhoni accomplished it within 324 innings. The Indian captain is overall the sixth skipper to achieve this feat. The list includes cricketing greats such as Graeme Smith (264 innings), Alan Border (316) and Stephen Fleming. List of captains with most runs 1.) Ricky Ponting - 15440 2.) Graeme Smith - 14878 3.) Stephen Fleming - 11561 4.) MS Dhoni - 11207 5.) Allan Border - 11062 6.) Virat Kohli- 11,000+* In an ongoing tussle of scoring most runs in T20Is, Virat Kohli once again surpassed his teammate Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-getter. Also read: 'We dominated the series,' says Shikhar Dhawan after India beat Sri Lanka to seal the series Also, frontline pacer Jasprit Bumrah became the leading wicket-taker for India in T20Is, The 26-year old surpassed R Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal after he claimed his 53rd wicket in the very first over of Sri Lankan innings by dismissing Danushka Gunathilaka for just 1. BCCI also tweeted to congratulate the bowler. BOOOM 💥💥 Jasprit Bumrah is now the leading wicket-taker in T20Is for #TeamIndia 🎯🎯 pic.twitter.com/7PWeaq2Fyj — BCCI (@BCCI) January 10, 2020 × Earlier, India thrashed Sri Lanka by 78 runs to seal the series 2-0. The first match of the series was washed out. India will now play a three-match ODI series against Australia which will begin from 14th January.

Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah shatter records as India claim series win against Sri Lanka

The initial phase of the&nbsp;Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-chhetri-extends-bengaluru-fc-contract-154243">Bengaluru FC</a>, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored.

However, under the guidance of former Barcelona youngster and team head coach Carles Cuadrat, Bengaluru have reclaimed their position as one of the top favourites to win this year's edition of the super league as well.

“We had a slow start. There were a few issues we had to iron out, and we have rectified them now. I think you are going to see a strong finish from our side at the end of the season,” he told sources.

Over the games this season, Indian superstar and team captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hungry-sunil-chhetri-wants-india-in-asias-top-10-240766">Sunil Chhetri</a> and Australian midfielder Erik Paartalu have proclaimed for themselves a position of great eminence on the field, having become the principal playmakers for the team.

Paartalu opened the scoring in the game with a goal from a corner within six&nbsp;minutes since the start of the game.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-owners-to-buy-65-stake-in-indias-mumbai-city-fc-265162">Manchester City owners to buy 65% stake in India's Mumbai City FC</a>

“In my position, you never really get noticed unless you score a goal and make an assist. I think I have four assists and two goals and it’s probably better than any tally I’ve had so far. I want to continue to build on that. This year is a big year for me and the club. We want to push for the Champions League spot,” Paartalu claimed.

Erik was referring to Bengaluru FC attempting to grab a spot in the Asian Football Confederations' <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revamped-fifa-club-world-cup-important-for-asia-gianni-infantino-208343">(AFC) Champions League</a>, in which domestic rivals Chennaiyin FC hold a spot.

Chhetri doubled the score against the 'Men of Steel' by shooting&nbsp;a goal into the net in the 63rd minute.

The team is clearly making progress, taking into consideration their improving match performances and style of playing.

The initial phase of the Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions Bengaluru FC, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored.

The initial phase of the Indian Super League (ISL) did not start off as expected for the defending champions Bengaluru FC, with the team winning only one match out of the first three and only one goal scored. However, under the guidance of former Barcelona youngster and team head coach Carles Cuadrat, Bengaluru have reclaimed their position as one of the top favourites to win this year's edition of the super league as well. “We had a slow start. There were a few issues we had to iron out, and we have rectified them now. I think you are going to see a strong finish from our side at the end of the season,” he told sources. Over the games this season, Indian superstar and team captain Sunil Chhetri and Australian midfielder Erik Paartalu have proclaimed for themselves a position of great eminence on the field, having become the principal playmakers for the team. Paartalu opened the scoring in the game with a goal from a corner within six minutes since the start of the game. Also Read: Manchester City owners to buy 65% stake in India's Mumbai City FC “In my position, you never really get noticed unless you score a goal and make an assist. I think I have four assists and two goals and it’s probably better than any tally I’ve had so far. I want to continue to build on that. This year is a big year for me and the club. We want to push for the Champions League spot,” Paartalu claimed. Erik was referring to Bengaluru FC attempting to grab a spot in the Asian Football Confederations' (AFC) Champions League, in which domestic rivals Chennaiyin FC hold a spot. Chhetri doubled the score against the 'Men of Steel' by shooting a goal into the net in the 63rd minute. The team is clearly making progress, taking into consideration their improving match performances and style of playing.

ISL: Holders Bengaluru FC thrash Jamshedpur 2-0

Ahead of the three-match ODI series against India, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-nz-nathan-lyon-takes-five-as-australia-dominate-in-sydney-272264">Australia</a>'s opening batsman David Warner on Thursday said that the entire side is looking forward to meeting their Indian fans.

Warner took to Instagram to share a picture of himself and captioned the post as: "India here we come!! It's going to be a great 3 game series. Looking forward to seeing all our Indian fans".

Warner had registered the second-highest score for an Australian batter in a Test match against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-team-from-flamboyance-to-religious-discrimination-270672">Pakistan</a> last year after scoring 335 at Adelaide.

He also scored a century in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand.

Australia white-washed both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-new-zealand-sweat-on-ailing-williamson-and-nicholls-271562">New Zealand</a> and Pakistan in the respective Test series. As a result, it moved to the second position on the World Test Championship (WTC) points table.

Australia will next take on India in a three-match ODI series.

The first game will be played on January 14 at the Wankhede Stadium in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-and-chhapaak-team-conduct-social-experiment-share-video-272855">Mumbai</a>.

Ahead of the three-match ODI series against India, Australia's opening batsman David Warner on Thursday said that the entire side is looking forward to meeting their Indian fans.

Ahead of the three-match ODI series against India, Australia's opening batsman David Warner on Thursday said that the entire side is looking forward to meeting their Indian fans. Warner took to Instagram to share a picture of himself and captioned the post as: "India here we come!! It's going to be a great 3 game series. Looking forward to seeing all our Indian fans". Warner had registered the second-highest score for an Australian batter in a Test match against Pakistan last year after scoring 335 at Adelaide. He also scored a century in the second innings of the third Test against New Zealand. Australia white-washed both New Zealand and Pakistan in the respective Test series. As a result, it moved to the second position on the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. Australia will next take on India in a three-match ODI series. The first game will be played on January 14 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Looking forward to seeing our Indian fans: David Warner ahead of ODI series

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/world-bank-to-reduce-lending-to-china-267039">World Bank</a> has projected India's growth at five per cent in the current financial year 2019-20 which is set to recover to 5.8 per cent in the following fiscal year.

In its latest semi-annual Global Economic Prospects report, the World Bank said that weakness in credit from non-bank financial companies is expected to linger.

"In India, where weakness in credit from non-bank financial companies is expected to linger, growth is projected to slow to 5 per cent in the financial year 2019-20, which ends March 31 and recover to 5.8 per cent the following fiscal year."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-forecasts-201920-gdp-growth-rate-at-5-272748">India forecasts 2019/20 GDP growth rate at 5%</a>

Globally, the bank projected that economic growth is projected to recover to 2.5 per cent in 2020 from 2.4 per cent in 2019.

However, the bank has noted that downside risk persists that might have an impact on the world's growth.

"Nevertheless, downside risks predominate including the possibility of a re-escalation of global trade tensions, sharp downturns in major economies, and financial disruptions in emerging market and developing economies," the report said.

The World Bank has projected India's growth at five per cent in the current financial year 2019-20 which is set to recover to 5.8 per cent in the following fiscal year.

The World Bank has projected India's growth at five per cent in the current financial year 2019-20 which is set to recover to 5.8 per cent in the following fiscal year. In its latest semi-annual Global Economic Prospects report, the World Bank said that weakness in credit from non-bank financial companies is expected to linger. "In India, where weakness in credit from non-bank financial companies is expected to linger, growth is projected to slow to 5 per cent in the financial year 2019-20, which ends March 31 and recover to 5.8 per cent the following fiscal year." Also read: India forecasts 2019/20 GDP growth rate at 5% Globally, the bank projected that economic growth is projected to recover to 2.5 per cent in 2020 from 2.4 per cent in 2019. However, the bank has noted that downside risk persists that might have an impact on the world's growth. "Nevertheless, downside risks predominate including the possibility of a re-escalation of global trade tensions, sharp downturns in major economies, and financial disruptions in emerging market and developing economies," the report said.

World Bank pegs India's growth at 5% in financial year 2020, projects recovery next year

India, Malaysia ties&nbsp;are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia.

The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

India will now be urging Indonesia for more oil imports, a move that is likely to spark a price war between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.&nbsp;

India's curb on palm oil imports will also result in a loss of market share for Malaysia.&nbsp;

Last month, as per reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-fallout-member-of-malaysian-central-government-coalition-says-pm-mahathir-has-overreacted-269450">CAA fallout: Member of Malaysian central government coalition says PM Mahathir has overreacted</a>

New Delhi reacted to Mohamed's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/factually-inaccurate-india-slams-malaysian-pms-remarks-on-caa-269407">Factually inaccurate: India slams Malaysian PM's remarks on CAA&nbsp;</a>

"The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read.

New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

India, Malaysia ties are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia. The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act.

India, Malaysia ties are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia. The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act. India will now be urging Indonesia for more oil imports, a move that is likely to spark a price war between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta. India's curb on palm oil imports will also result in a loss of market share for Malaysia. Last month, as per reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity". Also read: CAA fallout: Member of Malaysian central government coalition says PM Mahathir has overreacted New Delhi reacted to Mohamed's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen. Read more: Factually inaccurate: India slams Malaysian PM's remarks on CAA "The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read. New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

India puts curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia following PM Mahathir Mohamad's CAA remark

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-crashes-by-788-points-on-us-iran-tensions-banks-and-auto-companies-bleed-272541">Indian stocks</a> sank and the rupee weakened on Wednesday, as Iran struck US bases in Iraq. Shares tanked over 240 points in early trade on Wednesday.

The rupee was weaker by 0.27 per cent at 71.9900 against the dollar after hitting its lowest since November&nbsp;14.

Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fires-missiles-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272811">Iran fires 'more than a dozen' ballistic missiles at US bases in Iraq</a>

Oil refiner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-to-offload-bharat-petroleum-in-state-stake-sell-off-263518">Bharat Petroleum</a> Corp Ltd was the top decliner on the Nifty, falling 2.2 per cent amid the rise in crude, which could hurt margins at refining companies.

Other Asian shares and US&nbsp;Treasury yields also tumbled while gold shot higher.

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amid-escalating-tensions-in-west-asia-indian-stock-markets-close-in-the-red-272641">Amid escalating tensions in West Asia Indian stock markets close in the red</a>

India imports much of its crude from the Middle East, and its markets are sensitive to swings in prices, which have dipped this week on fears of a disruption to oil supplies.

"For the time being, the biggest risk factor for the Indian economy is the possible closure of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-makes-strait-of-hormuz-worlds-most-important-oil-artery-227135">Strait of Hormuz</a> - where almost half of the global oil supplies pass through," said Arnob Biswas, head of FX Research at SMC Global Securities in New Delhi.

"Higher oil prices may lead to headline CPI beyond 6.00 per cent in the coming months," he added in reference to the consumer price index.

Brent crude futures were up 95 cents at $69.22 a barrel, after earlier rising to $71.75, their highest since mid-September 2019.

In India, the NSE Nifty 50 index-tracking blue-chip equities were down 0.86 per cent at 11,948.85 by 0350 GMT, while the benchmark S&amp;P BSE Sensex slid 0.75 per cent to 40,564.72. The two indexes plunged nearly 2% on Monday after a spike in crude prices, and the Nifty saw its worst one-day drop in some four months.

Growth in Asia's third-largest economy has already slowed to multi-year lows, and on Tuesday, India forecast 5 per cent growth for the current financial year, the slowest pace in 11 years.

The projections will likely prompt finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman to opt for extra fiscal stimulus when she presents the annual budget next month.

Indian stocks sank and the rupee weakened on Wednesday, as Iran struck US bases in Iraq. Shares tanked over 240 points in early trade on Wednesday. The rupee was weaker by 0.

Indian stocks sank and the rupee weakened on Wednesday, as Iran struck US bases in Iraq. Shares tanked over 240 points in early trade on Wednesday. The rupee was weaker by 0.27 per cent at 71.9900 against the dollar after hitting its lowest since November 14. Read: Iran fires 'more than a dozen' ballistic missiles at US bases in Iraq Oil refiner Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd was the top decliner on the Nifty, falling 2.2 per cent amid the rise in crude, which could hurt margins at refining companies. Other Asian shares and US Treasury yields also tumbled while gold shot higher. Watch: Amid escalating tensions in West Asia Indian stock markets close in the red India imports much of its crude from the Middle East, and its markets are sensitive to swings in prices, which have dipped this week on fears of a disruption to oil supplies. "For the time being, the biggest risk factor for the Indian economy is the possible closure of Strait of Hormuz - where almost half of the global oil supplies pass through," said Arnob Biswas, head of FX Research at SMC Global Securities in New Delhi. "Higher oil prices may lead to headline CPI beyond 6.00 per cent in the coming months," he added in reference to the consumer price index. Brent crude futures were up 95 cents at $69.22 a barrel, after earlier rising to $71.75, their highest since mid-September 2019. In India, the NSE Nifty 50 index-tracking blue-chip equities were down 0.86 per cent at 11,948.85 by 0350 GMT, while the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex slid 0.75 per cent to 40,564.72. The two indexes plunged nearly 2% on Monday after a spike in crude prices, and the Nifty saw its worst one-day drop in some four months. Growth in Asia's third-largest economy has already slowed to multi-year lows, and on Tuesday, India forecast 5 per cent growth for the current financial year, the slowest pace in 11 years. The projections will likely prompt finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman to opt for extra fiscal stimulus when she presents the annual budget next month.

Nifty, Sensex dive as crude jumps after Iran missile strike on US bases in Iraq

India secured a massive seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I match at the Holkar Stadium here on Tuesday.

With this victory, India has taken a 1-0 lead over Sri Lank in the three-match T20I series. The first match was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain.

Chasing a decent target of 143 runs, India got off to a flying start as Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul struck regular boundaries to Sri Lanka bowlers.

Both formed a 71-run partnership before Rahul, who missed his half-century by five runs, was bowled by Wanindu Hasaranga in the 10th over. Soon after, Hasaranga sent Dhawan too back to the pavilion as the latter was given LBW after scoring 32 runs.

Shreyas Iyer and skipper Virat Kohli then took the charge and played furiously. Iyer (34) gave away an easy catch to Dasun Shanaka in the 17th over, bowled by Lahiru Kumara. However, India only needed six runs and Kohli struck a brilliant six in the same over to take India over the line.

Kohli played an unbeaten knock of 30 runs from 17 balls in the match.&nbsp;

After being sent to bat first, Danushka Gunathilaka and Avishka Fernando provided Sri Lanka with a good start.

Washington Sundar provided India with their first breakthrough as he got hold of Fernando, who scored 22 runs. Kusal Perera then came out to bat but could not form a good partnership with Gunathilaka as the latter was bowled by Navdeep Saini.

Oshada Fernando then joined Perera out on the field. The duo added 28 runs on the board before Kuldeep Yadav dismissed Fernando (10). In his next over, Yadav got hold of Perera (34).

Sri Lanka utterly failed to form a good partnership and Indian bowlers kept the visitors under immense pressure. In the 19th over, Shardul Thakur picked three wickets which reduced Sri Lanka to 130/9.&nbsp;

However, in the final over, Wanindu Hasaranga smashed three consecutive boundaries to Jasprit Bumrah to help Sri Lanka post a respectable total. The third T20I between both teams will be played on January 10.

Brief score: 
 
India 144/3 (KL Rahul 45, Shreyas Iyer 34, Wanindu Hasaranga 2-30)

Sri Lanka 142/9 (Kusal Perera 34, Avishka Fernando 22, Shardul Thakur 3-23) by seven wickets.&nbsp;

India secured a massive seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I match at the Holkar Stadium here on Tuesday. With this victory, India has taken a 1-0 lead over Sri Lank in the three-match T20I series.

India secured a massive seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20I match at the Holkar Stadium here on Tuesday. With this victory, India has taken a 1-0 lead over Sri Lank in the three-match T20I series. The first match was abandoned without a ball being bowled due to rain. Chasing a decent target of 143 runs, India got off to a flying start as Shikhar Dhawan and KL Rahul struck regular boundaries to Sri Lanka bowlers. Both formed a 71-run partnership before Rahul, who missed his half-century by five runs, was bowled by Wanindu Hasaranga in the 10th over. Soon after, Hasaranga sent Dhawan too back to the pavilion as the latter was given LBW after scoring 32 runs. Shreyas Iyer and skipper Virat Kohli then took the charge and played furiously. Iyer (34) gave away an easy catch to Dasun Shanaka in the 17th over, bowled by Lahiru Kumara. However, India only needed six runs and Kohli struck a brilliant six in the same over to take India over the line. Kohli played an unbeaten knock of 30 runs from 17 balls in the match. After being sent to bat first, Danushka Gunathilaka and Avishka Fernando provided Sri Lanka with a good start. Washington Sundar provided India with their first breakthrough as he got hold of Fernando, who scored 22 runs. Kusal Perera then came out to bat but could not form a good partnership with Gunathilaka as the latter was bowled by Navdeep Saini. Oshada Fernando then joined Perera out on the field. The duo added 28 runs on the board before Kuldeep Yadav dismissed Fernando (10). In his next over, Yadav got hold of Perera (34). Sri Lanka utterly failed to form a good partnership and Indian bowlers kept the visitors under immense pressure. In the 19th over, Shardul Thakur picked three wickets which reduced Sri Lanka to 130/9. However, in the final over, Wanindu Hasaranga smashed three consecutive boundaries to Jasprit Bumrah to help Sri Lanka post a respectable total. The third T20I between both teams will be played on January 10. Brief score: India 144/3 (KL Rahul 45, Shreyas Iyer 34, Wanindu Hasaranga 2-30) Sri Lanka 142/9 (Kusal Perera 34, Avishka Fernando 22, Shardul Thakur 3-23) by seven wickets.

India vs Sri Lanka, 2nd T20I: India thrash Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in the second T20I, take 1-0 lead

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-dismisses-plea-seeking-fir-against-sole-witness-in-nirbhaya-rape-case-272547">Delhi court</a> will hear today the plea of parents of 2012 Delhi gang-rape victim seeking to expedite the procedure to hang all 4 convicted in the case and also seeking issuance of death warrant against them.

Yesterday, the court dismissed an application filed by the father of one of the death-row convicts in the Nirbhaya rape case, who had questioned the credibility of the sole witness by claiming that he was "tutored" and sought the registration of FIR against him.

The court had on December 20 reserved the order on an application filed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-delhi-high-court-adjourns-convicts-plea-claiming-he-was-juvenile-269075">Pawan Kumar Gupta</a>'s father till today. The petition had stated that the girl's friend committed perjury for giving false testimony in the court.

The sole eye-witness was accompanying the 23-year-old girl when she was raped and murdered by six men on a moving bus on December 16, 2012.

Besides Pawan Kumar Gupta, three others - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-nirbhaya-convicts-want-to-use-their-remaining-legal-remedies-270009">Akshay, Vinay, and Mukesh</a> are facing the gallows in the case.

The main accused, Ram Singh, allegedly committed suicide in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-priyanka-gandhi-to-meet-chidambaram-at-tihar-jail-tomorrow-264716">Tihar Jail</a> during the trial. Another accused was a minor at the time of the commission of the crime and was sent to a reform facility and released after three years.

A Delhi court will hear today the plea of parents of 2012 Delhi gang-rape victim seeking to expedite the procedure to hang all 4 convicted in the case and also seeking issuance of death warrant against them.

A Delhi court will hear today the plea of parents of 2012 Delhi gang-rape victim seeking to expedite the procedure to hang all 4 convicted in the case and also seeking issuance of death warrant against them. Yesterday, the court dismissed an application filed by the father of one of the death-row convicts in the Nirbhaya rape case, who had questioned the credibility of the sole witness by claiming that he was "tutored" and sought the registration of FIR against him. The court had on December 20 reserved the order on an application filed by Pawan Kumar Gupta's father till today. The petition had stated that the girl's friend committed perjury for giving false testimony in the court. The sole eye-witness was accompanying the 23-year-old girl when she was raped and murdered by six men on a moving bus on December 16, 2012. Besides Pawan Kumar Gupta, three others - Akshay, Vinay, and Mukesh are facing the gallows in the case. The main accused, Ram Singh, allegedly committed suicide in Tihar Jail during the trial. Another accused was a minor at the time of the commission of the crime and was sent to a reform facility and released after three years.

Court to hear plea of Nirbhaya's parents seeking to expedite punishment to 4 convicts

A man was arrested after police busted an illegal arms manufacturing unit from the Port area of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/students-protest-across-country-after-jnu-attack-272583">Kolkata</a>.

According to the police's statement, the accused identified as Abdul Kayum alias Munna has been arrested for his alleged involvement in the illegal arms manufacturing unit. "He was engaged in making firearms using machines and materials inside a tile shed room situated on the terrace of his rented premises," police said.

Acting on a tip-off, a police team raided a single-storied building at Nadial in the city's Port area and busted the arms manufacturing unit, seized the materials and arrested Munna.

During the raid, one finished 7 mm pistol, one finished magazine, one semi-finished magazine, one barrel, three drill machines, six vise&nbsp;machines, two hand-held visas, steel sheets, iron bars, hammers, hacksaw blades, iron spring coils were also seized, police said.

Apart from Kayum, the landlord of the building Mohammed Kalim, a resident of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/richard-gere-attends-dalai-lamas-session-in-bodh-gaya-bihar-272125">Bihar</a> and others were also engaged in the same job. But they could not be traced, they said.

One finished 7 mm pistol, one finished magazine, one semi-finished magazine, one barrel, three handheld drill machines, six vise&nbsp;machines, two handheld viss, steel sheets, iron bars, hammers, hacksaw blades, iron spring coils etc were seized. 
 
A case has been registered at the Nadial Police Station under Section 25(1)(a), 29 and 35 of Arms Act.

A man was arrested after police busted an illegal arms manufacturing unit from the Port area of Kolkata. According to the police's statement, the accused identified as Abdul Kayum alias Munna has been arrested for his alleged involvement in the illegal arms manufacturing unit.

A man was arrested after police busted an illegal arms manufacturing unit from the Port area of Kolkata. According to the police's statement, the accused identified as Abdul Kayum alias Munna has been arrested for his alleged involvement in the illegal arms manufacturing unit. "He was engaged in making firearms using machines and materials inside a tile shed room situated on the terrace of his rented premises," police said. Acting on a tip-off, a police team raided a single-storied building at Nadial in the city's Port area and busted the arms manufacturing unit, seized the materials and arrested Munna. During the raid, one finished 7 mm pistol, one finished magazine, one semi-finished magazine, one barrel, three drill machines, six vise machines, two hand-held visas, steel sheets, iron bars, hammers, hacksaw blades, iron spring coils were also seized, police said. Apart from Kayum, the landlord of the building Mohammed Kalim, a resident of Bihar and others were also engaged in the same job. But they could not be traced, they said. One finished 7 mm pistol, one finished magazine, one semi-finished magazine, one barrel, three handheld drill machines, six vise machines, two handheld viss, steel sheets, iron bars, hammers, hacksaw blades, iron spring coils etc were seized. A case has been registered at the Nadial Police Station under Section 25(1)(a), 29 and 35 of Arms Act.

Police bust illegal arms manufacturing unit in West Bengal, 1 held

The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Centre to look into public interest litigation (PIL) against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-financial-system-stable-despite-weakening-domestic-growth-rbi-270631">Reserve Bank of India</a>'s (RBI) decision to exchange Rs 30 crores worth of banknotes which were defaced by separatist groups in Kashmir in 2013.

A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/justice-must-never-take-the-form-of-revenge-cji-sa-bobde-266822">Sharad Arvind Bobde</a>, has asked the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, to reply within two weeks as "it is a matter of national importance."

The plea filed by one Satish Bhardwaj has called for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-to-examine-agustawestland-middleman-christian-michel-in-another-defence-deal-case-265457">Central Bureau of Investigation</a> (CBI) investigation against RBI for allowing notes to be exchanged. Bhardwaj has alleged that he had moved RBI and CBI for action into the matter in 2013 itself but did not get any response.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Centre to look into public interest litigation (PIL) against Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) decision to exchange Rs 30 crores worth of banknotes which were defaced by separatist groups in Kashmir in 2013.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Centre to look into public interest litigation (PIL) against Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) decision to exchange Rs 30 crores worth of banknotes which were defaced by separatist groups in Kashmir in 2013. A Bench headed by Chief Justice of India, Sharad Arvind Bobde, has asked the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, to reply within two weeks as "it is a matter of national importance." The plea filed by one Satish Bhardwaj has called for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) investigation against RBI for allowing notes to be exchanged. Bhardwaj has alleged that he had moved RBI and CBI for action into the matter in 2013 itself but did not get any response.

SC asks Centre to look into PIL against RBI's decision on banknotes defaced by separatists in Kashmir

Several masked men entered the campus of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Sunday and attacked students in the Sabarmati hostel.

"People came from outside, armed with sticks and rods. The situation is grim in the University. So, I am leaving the campus for now," a student of JNU said.

Several students were injured in violence by the masked perpetrators and were rushed to AIIMS&nbsp;with cases of head injuries and bleeding.

<ul>
	<li>According to the sources, the clash took place during a public meeting organised by the JNU Teachers' Association.</li>
	<li>In the late hours of Sunday, Delhi Police said it conducted a flag march and the situation was brought under control after it got a written request from the JNU administration to enter the campus.</li>
	<li>The Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers' Federation (JNUTF) said it was extremely concerned about the environment of fear and brutality created by some violent agitating students.</li>
	<li>Students from around the country protested to condemn the violence in JNU. Students from Mumbai and Hyderabad continued to protest into the early hours of Monday morning.</li>
	<li>JNUSU&nbsp;has demanded the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar.</li>
</ul>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/masked-goons-attack-students-teachers-on-jnu-campus-many-injured-272344">Masked men attack students, teachers on JNU campus, many injured</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-violence-amit-shah-asks-delhi-police-commissioner-to-take-necessary-action-272347">JNU violence: Amit Shah asks Delhi Police Commissioner to take necessary action</a>

&nbsp;

Watch: Masked mob enters JNU campus, brutally beats students and teachers

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Several masked men entered the campus of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Sunday and attacked students in the Sabarmati hostel. "People came from outside, armed with sticks and rods.

Several masked men entered the campus of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Sunday and attacked students in the Sabarmati hostel. "People came from outside, armed with sticks and rods. The situation is grim in the University. So, I am leaving the campus for now," a student of JNU said. Several students were injured in violence by the masked perpetrators and were rushed to AIIMS with cases of head injuries and bleeding. According to the sources, the clash took place during a public meeting organised by the JNU Teachers' Association. In the late hours of Sunday, Delhi Police said it conducted a flag march and the situation was brought under control after it got a written request from the JNU administration to enter the campus. The Jawaharlal Nehru University Teachers' Federation (JNUTF) said it was extremely concerned about the environment of fear and brutality created by some violent agitating students. Students from around the country protested to condemn the violence in JNU. Students from Mumbai and Hyderabad continued to protest into the early hours of Monday morning. JNUSU has demanded the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar. Read more: Masked men attack students, teachers on JNU campus, many injured Read more: JNU violence: Amit Shah asks Delhi Police Commissioner to take necessary action Watch: Masked mob enters JNU campus, brutally beats students and teachers ×

Jawaharlal Nehru University violence update: JNU students shout slogans against Delhi Police

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dense-fog-likely-in-up-rajasthan-parts-of-northeast-during-next-two-days-imd-272230">Dense to very dense fog</a> was observed in isolated pockets over Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, Assam and Meghalaya on Monday.

Isolated pockets in East Uttar Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal and Tripura witnessed moderate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-trains-running-late-due-to-low-visibility-in-northern-railway-region-271802">fog</a> at 5:30 AM today.

"Dense to very dense fog observed at isolated pockets over Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Sikkim, Odisha and Assam and Meghalaya and moderate fog at isolated pockets over East Uttar Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal and Tripura at 0530 hours IST of 06.01.2020," said the India Meteorological Department.

The visibility recorded (in metre) in Agra, Lucknow and Bagdogra was 25 each, 50 each in Varanasi, Chandbali, Diamond Harbour and Silchar, and 200 each in Sultanpur, Haldia, Kalasaher and Agartala.

The weather department said thunderstorm and lightning accompanied with hailstorm is very likely over Jammu and Kashmir, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-led-government-restored-special-status-of-himachal-jp-nadda-270602">Himachal Pradesh</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-cm-amarinder-singh-urges-pak-pm-to-ensure-strict-punishment-of-culprits-of-sikh-youth-killing-in-peshawar-272333">Punjab</a>, Haryana, Chandigarh, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-conducts-flag-march-in-jawaharlal-nehru-university-after-violence-272387">Delhi</a>, north <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-146-infants-die-in-december-in-jodhpur-hospital-272210">Rajasthan</a> on January 6 and 7; over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gerard-butler-celebrates-new-year-in-india-meets-the-dalai-lama-271617">Uttarakhand</a> from January 6 to 8, and over Uttar Pradesh on January 7 and 8.

Temperatures may fall in Delhi from January 9 to 11 as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/slight-relief-from-cold-wave-north-india-sees-rise-in-maximum-temperature-271485">IMD</a> has predicted a spell of rain triggered by a western disturbance.

Delhi recorded its coldest day of December in the last 119 years on December 30 with the maximum temperature at 9.4 degrees at 2.30 pm at Safdarjung.

The minimum and maximum temperatures were recorded at 7.2 and 21 degrees Celsius, respectively in Delhi's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-chief-inducts-fis-dornier-aircraft-into-number-41-squadron-271304">Palam</a> today.

According to SAFAR, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remains in a very poor category with PM 10 at 253 and PM 2.5 at 143.

On Sunday, the overall air quality in Delhi continued to be in the 'very poor' category with the AQI docking at 336.

Dense to very dense fog was observed in isolated pockets over Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, Assam and Meghalaya on Monday. Isolated pockets in East Uttar Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal and Tripura witnessed moderate fog at 5:30 AM today.

Dense to very dense fog was observed in isolated pockets over Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, Assam and Meghalaya on Monday. Isolated pockets in East Uttar Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal and Tripura witnessed moderate fog at 5:30 AM today. "Dense to very dense fog observed at isolated pockets over Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Sikkim, Odisha and Assam and Meghalaya and moderate fog at isolated pockets over East Uttar Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal and Tripura at 0530 hours IST of 06.01.2020," said the India Meteorological Department. The visibility recorded (in metre) in Agra, Lucknow and Bagdogra was 25 each, 50 each in Varanasi, Chandbali, Diamond Harbour and Silchar, and 200 each in Sultanpur, Haldia, Kalasaher and Agartala. The weather department said thunderstorm and lightning accompanied with hailstorm is very likely over Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, north Rajasthan on January 6 and 7; over Uttarakhand from January 6 to 8, and over Uttar Pradesh on January 7 and 8. Temperatures may fall in Delhi from January 9 to 11 as the IMD has predicted a spell of rain triggered by a western disturbance. Delhi recorded its coldest day of December in the last 119 years on December 30 with the maximum temperature at 9.4 degrees at 2.30 pm at Safdarjung. The minimum and maximum temperatures were recorded at 7.2 and 21 degrees Celsius, respectively in Delhi's Palam today. According to SAFAR, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remains in a very poor category with PM 10 at 253 and PM 2.5 at 143. On Sunday, the overall air quality in Delhi continued to be in the 'very poor' category with the AQI docking at 336.

Dense fog in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, parts of Northeast: IMD

In the wake <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-bushfires-wildlife-destroyed-by-intense-wildfires-could-take-decades-to-recover-271954">devastating bushfires</a> in Australia, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/australian-pm-to-visit-india-in-january-calls-india-a-natural-partner-253636">Prime Minister Scott Morrison</a> has deferred his visit to India which was likely to take place this month.&nbsp;

PM Morrison was also supposed to visit Japan this month, the trip has been postponed.&nbsp;

"I should stress that both of those scheduled meetings are postponed and will move quickly to identify another opportunity," Morrison said as reported by news agency Reuters.

This would have been Morrison's first visit to India after taking charge as the Australian PM.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended an invitation to Morrison to visit India.

"So I am honoured to accept the invitation of my friend Prime Minister Modi to visit India in January, including to deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue," Morrison had said during the Sydney townhall.&nbsp;

"My visit will be another step in cementing India in the top tier of Australia’s partnerships," he added.

PM Morrison had congratulated Modi after the latter won the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

PM Modi also congratulated "Prime Minister Morrison for guiding his Liberal-National Coalition Party to victory in recently concluded elections in Australia," a Ministry of External Affairs release said.

In the wake devastating bushfires in Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has deferred his visit to India which was likely to take place this month. PM Morrison was also supposed to visit Japan this month, the trip has been postponed.

In the wake devastating bushfires in Australia, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has deferred his visit to India which was likely to take place this month. PM Morrison was also supposed to visit Japan this month, the trip has been postponed. "I should stress that both of those scheduled meetings are postponed and will move quickly to identify another opportunity," Morrison said as reported by news agency Reuters. This would have been Morrison's first visit to India after taking charge as the Australian PM. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had extended an invitation to Morrison to visit India. "So I am honoured to accept the invitation of my friend Prime Minister Modi to visit India in January, including to deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue," Morrison had said during the Sydney townhall. "My visit will be another step in cementing India in the top tier of Australia’s partnerships," he added. PM Morrison had congratulated Modi after the latter won the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. PM Modi also congratulated "Prime Minister Morrison for guiding his Liberal-National Coalition Party to victory in recently concluded elections in Australia," a Ministry of External Affairs release said.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison defers trip to India, Japan as bushfire crisis looms 

BJP national working president JP Nadda said here on Thursday that Congress has not condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/anti-caa-protests-heres-why-the-police-force-is-being-targetted-and-demonised-271596">violence</a> that took place during the protest against Citizenship (Amendment) Act, implying that they are behind it.

"Congress says they are not behind the violence," said Nadda. "If you are not behind it, then so many days have passed, why have you not condemned it?" he asked while addressing an event.

Earlier in the day, he offered prayers at the Swaminarayan Mandir. Temple saints handed over a letter to the BJP leader in support of CAA.

The party is conducting meetings and organising seminars on CAA. Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday launched a toll-free number to get support from people for its campaigns in favour of the amended citizenship law.

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नागरिकता संशोधन अधिनियम - 2019 को अपना समर्थन देने के लिए 8866288662 पर मिस्ड कॉल करें। <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaSupportsCAA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaSupportsCAA</a> <a href="https://t.co/AJ819hv6Ul">pic.twitter.com/AJ819hv6Ul</a>
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The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

BJP national working president JP Nadda said here on Thursday that Congress has not condemned the violence that took place during the protest against Citizenship (Amendment) Act, implying that they are behind it.

BJP national working president JP Nadda said here on Thursday that Congress has not condemned the violence that took place during the protest against Citizenship (Amendment) Act, implying that they are behind it. "Congress says they are not behind the violence," said Nadda. "If you are not behind it, then so many days have passed, why have you not condemned it?" he asked while addressing an event. Earlier in the day, he offered prayers at the Swaminarayan Mandir. Temple saints handed over a letter to the BJP leader in support of CAA. The party is conducting meetings and organising seminars on CAA. Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday launched a toll-free number to get support from people for its campaigns in favour of the amended citizenship law. नागरिकता संशोधन अधिनियम - 2019 को अपना समर्थन देने के लिए 8866288662 पर मिस्ड कॉल करें। #IndiaSupportsCAA pic.twitter.com/AJ819hv6Ul — BJP (@BJP4India) January 2, 2020 × The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

If Congress not behind anti-CAA violence, why haven't they condemned it, asks Nadda

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