South Indian superstar Rajinikanth will be conferred with the 'Icon Of Golden Jubilee Award'&nbsp;for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, announced Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday. 
 
The Union Minister shared this information on his Twitter handle. The tweet reads, "In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, during the past several decades, I am happy to announce that the award for the ICON OF GOLDEN JUBILEE OF #IFFI2019 is being conferred on cine star Shri S Rajnikant.IFFIGoa50 "

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In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, during the past several decades, I am happy to announce that the award for the ICON OF GOLDEN JUBILEE OF <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IFFI2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IFFI2019</a> is being conferred on cine star Shri S Rajnikant. 
IFFIGoa50 <a href="https://t.co/oqjTGvcrvE">pic.twitter.com/oqjTGvcrvE</a>
— Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrakashJavdekar/status/1190503247477272577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On this occasion actor and politician, Rajinikanth thanked the Government of India for honouring him. The tweet reads: "I thank the government of India for this prestigious honour bestowed upon me on the golden jubilee of the International film festival of India #IFFI2019" The Union Minister also informed that among the 200 foreign films for IFFIGoa50, 24 films are in the race for Oscar nominations.

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I thank the government of India for this prestigious honour bestowed upon me on the golden jubilee of the International film festival of India 🙏🏻<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IFFI2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IFFI2019</a>
— Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajinikanth/status/1190515426981072897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The festival will showcase 50 films of 50 women directors. Javadekar also informed that French actor Isabelle Hupert would also be honoured at the festival with the "Life Time Achievement Award" for a 'foreign artiste'.&nbsp;

South Indian superstar Rajinikanth will be conferred with the 'Icon Of Golden Jubilee Award' for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, announced Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday.

South Indian superstar Rajinikanth will be conferred with the 'Icon Of Golden Jubilee Award' for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, announced Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday. The Union Minister shared this information on his Twitter handle. The tweet reads, "In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, during the past several decades, I am happy to announce that the award for the ICON OF GOLDEN JUBILEE OF #IFFI2019 is being conferred on cine star Shri S Rajnikant.IFFIGoa50 " In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, during the past several decades, I am happy to announce that the award for the ICON OF GOLDEN JUBILEE OF #IFFI2019 is being conferred on cine star Shri S Rajnikant. IFFIGoa50 pic.twitter.com/oqjTGvcrvE — Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) November 2, 2019 × On this occasion actor and politician, Rajinikanth thanked the Government of India for honouring him. The tweet reads: "I thank the government of India for this prestigious honour bestowed upon me on the golden jubilee of the International film festival of India #IFFI2019" The Union Minister also informed that among the 200 foreign films for IFFIGoa50, 24 films are in the race for Oscar nominations. I thank the government of India for this prestigious honour bestowed upon me on the golden jubilee of the International film festival of India 🙏🏻#IFFI2019 — Rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) November 2, 2019 × The festival will showcase 50 films of 50 women directors. Javadekar also informed that French actor Isabelle Hupert would also be honoured at the festival with the "Life Time Achievement Award" for a 'foreign artiste'.

Rajinikanth to be conferred with Icon of Golden Jubilee Award at IFFI 2019

WhatsApp Responds to Government Statement and has also rejected the claims by the government.

WhatsApp Snoopgate: WhatsApp replies to Indian Government

India denies WhatsApp hack amid outrage. To know more watch the video

NSO-WhatsApp snoopgate: Indian government denies WhatsApp claims

Expressing concerns over uncertainty in the global energy market, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday said the recent developments in the region have an enormous impact on India's energy security and also on "our economic, budgetary and investment dimensions." 
 
In his opening remarks at the third International Think Tank (ITT) meeting, Pradhan said: "In recent times, we are facing significant uncertainty and challenge in the global energy markets." 
 
"Since our last meeting, we have seen the most disruptive developments. United States sanctions on Iran and Venezuela, attacks on Saudi oil processing units, volatile conditions in Strait of Hormuz, unrest in the Middle-East, and US-China trade war, to name a few," he said. 
 
"These developments have an enormous impact on India's energy security and also on our economic, budgetary and investment dimensions," added Pradhan. 
 
The minister also noted that India's import dependency on crude oil and LNG continues to rise unabated. 
 
He said, "It is now over 84 per cent for crude and 45 per cent for natural gas... It is expected to increase in the future. Such excessive import dependency does make us vulnerable to external developments more than ever before," stressed Pradhan. 
 
He also said that today the moot question is how to make energy transition more sustainable. "The decisions and actions&nbsp;in response to the changing scenario - must be less reactive and more transformative," he added. 
 
However, the minister assured the member of the think tank that India has undertaken a transformative step by developing a gas-based economy. 
"A lot of emphasis is being given to developing gas exploration, import and distribution infrastructure in the country. Natural gas, gradually but surely, becoming a bridging fuel for low carbon economy in India," said Pradhan. 
 
In addition, an estimated investment of $60 billion has also been made for the construction of a gas pipeline and terminal infrastructure that has reached its advanced stages of completion. 
 
"India will continue to depend on hydrocarbons," the minister noted, adding that the country will only rely on clean and more efficient technologies, alongside robust producer-consumer relations as trade volumes grow. 
 
Providing a glimpse of India's path of the energy transition, Pradhan said that the share of renewables in the electricity mix has gone up from around 5 per cent in 2014-15 to 22 per cent at present. 
 
Also, ethanol blending percentage has risen from 0.67 per cent in 2012-13&nbsp;to 6 per cent. Natural Gas consumption is further witnessing 6 per cent growth since the last couple of years, the minister said. 
 
He stressed that India's oil and gas sector can function optimally only if it is in sync with the rest of the global developments. 
 
"We have to strengthen our linkages in technologies, markets, and business models and also capitalise on the shift of the centre of gravity in the oil and gas sector from producing to consuming nations," he added. 
 
The first meeting of the International Think Tank Meeting (ITT) was held in October 2017. 
 
Distinguished members of the International Think Tank, Petroleum Secretary MM Kutty, CMDs and CEOs of Indian oil and gas companies were present on the occasion. 
 
During the last two annual meetings, the forum did brainstorming on the prevailing dynamics in the global oil and gas sector, and its relevance to India's hydrocarbon sector.

Expressing concerns over uncertainty in the global energy market, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday said the recent developments in the region have an enormous impact on India's energy security and also on "our economic, budgetary and investment dimensions.

Expressing concerns over uncertainty in the global energy market, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday said the recent developments in the region have an enormous impact on India's energy security and also on "our economic, budgetary and investment dimensions." In his opening remarks at the third International Think Tank (ITT) meeting, Pradhan said: "In recent times, we are facing significant uncertainty and challenge in the global energy markets." "Since our last meeting, we have seen the most disruptive developments. United States sanctions on Iran and Venezuela, attacks on Saudi oil processing units, volatile conditions in Strait of Hormuz, unrest in the Middle-East, and US-China trade war, to name a few," he said. "These developments have an enormous impact on India's energy security and also on our economic, budgetary and investment dimensions," added Pradhan. The minister also noted that India's import dependency on crude oil and LNG continues to rise unabated. He said, "It is now over 84 per cent for crude and 45 per cent for natural gas... It is expected to increase in the future. Such excessive import dependency does make us vulnerable to external developments more than ever before," stressed Pradhan. He also said that today the moot question is how to make energy transition more sustainable. "The decisions and actions in response to the changing scenario - must be less reactive and more transformative," he added. However, the minister assured the member of the think tank that India has undertaken a transformative step by developing a gas-based economy. "A lot of emphasis is being given to developing gas exploration, import and distribution infrastructure in the country. Natural gas, gradually but surely, becoming a bridging fuel for low carbon economy in India," said Pradhan. In addition, an estimated investment of $60 billion has also been made for the construction of a gas pipeline and terminal infrastructure that has reached its advanced stages of completion. "India will continue to depend on hydrocarbons," the minister noted, adding that the country will only rely on clean and more efficient technologies, alongside robust producer-consumer relations as trade volumes grow. Providing a glimpse of India's path of the energy transition, Pradhan said that the share of renewables in the electricity mix has gone up from around 5 per cent in 2014-15 to 22 per cent at present. Also, ethanol blending percentage has risen from 0.67 per cent in 2012-13 to 6 per cent. Natural Gas consumption is further witnessing 6 per cent growth since the last couple of years, the minister said. He stressed that India's oil and gas sector can function optimally only if it is in sync with the rest of the global developments. "We have to strengthen our linkages in technologies, markets, and business models and also capitalise on the shift of the centre of gravity in the oil and gas sector from producing to consuming nations," he added. The first meeting of the International Think Tank Meeting (ITT) was held in October 2017. Distinguished members of the International Think Tank, Petroleum Secretary MM Kutty, CMDs and CEOs of Indian oil and gas companies were present on the occasion. During the last two annual meetings, the forum did brainstorming on the prevailing dynamics in the global oil and gas sector, and its relevance to India's hydrocarbon sector.

Recent regional developments have impacted India's energy security, says Dharmendra Pradhan

In a major breakthrough in fight against black money, Switzerland on Monday confirmed that it had shared information regarding accounts held by Indian residents in the central European country with the Indian government.

In a major breakthrough in fight against black money, Switzerland on Monday confirmed that it had shared information regarding accounts held by Indian residents in the central European country with the Indian government. India received the first list of account holders in September 2019 for the year 2018 under the Automatic Exchange Of Information (AEOI) on tax matters, it added. AEOI was signed between India and Switzerland in November 2016. Swiss government gave information about the accounts including name, address and account balance to the Indian government. India will now receive the information automatically every year. The Swiss federal department of finance in a release said, "Federal Tax Administration (FTA) has exchanged information on financial accounts with 75 countries." The Swiss finance department confirmed to WION that list of 75 countries include India but on the number of accounts whose details have been given to Indian government the department said, "communication of statistical data is subject to the confidentiality clauses" Swiss government shared information of 3.1 million financial accounts to 75 countries and received information on 2.4 million of them on a reciprocal basis. The largest exchange was with Germany.

Indian government gets first list of Swiss account holders 

Populism of&nbsp;late has acquired a bad meaning globally. Populism is being associated with majoritarian politics which does not respect the minority and treats smaller communities with disrespect.

It has also come to represent unitary, uniform and homogenous idea of a nation which does not accommodate ethnicities, regional languages and ideological aspirations of small communities.&nbsp;

Populism instead of being understood as a critique of the previous arrangement of power internationally is being demonised as a religion of illiterate people who believe in half-baked truths.

The attitude is self-defeating. It only creates a sense of disdain without any concerted effort to understand what propels communities merge small differences of culture, community, and language to achieve big goals.&nbsp;

The first thing which populism does is to break the politics of political correctness. The sham of what can and what cannot be addressed in public is broken in the public domain. In India, it related to matter of faith, worship, civil code, Article 370 and anxiety of being overrun by immigrants.

Populism in politics also reflects social disconnect with the system of power and not with individuals. A populist government coming to power does not reflect a mere change of power. It leads to change in the way people are governed and policies are made and implemented. It is for this reason Narendra Modi’s government is populist in nature and Vajpayee despite being a popular politician, did not lead a populist government. His government did not change the intellectual consensus on national issues. A populist government comes to power when people at large want change to be reflected not only through decisions but also through the process of decision-making.

It is for this reason, what is construed by many as singular, authoritarian or undemocratic is seen by people as decisive, strong and path-breaking. And thus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received unending support from people across India on the abrogation of Article 370. It has not just created a new normal in the Valley but also changed the way Indians approach the Kashmir issue permanently.

Populist governments can become reactionary but in a democratic system, they help channel deep anxieties and frustration felt by common men and women in the context of decision making. It is for this reason, populism has seeped into many countries in Europe. Populist politics is challenging limits of European integration which has been born as a consequence of the disastrous World War II. Indian populism is also challenging the political consensus born immediately after the partition.&nbsp;

The old power order is only trying it grasp fundamental shift in Indian political order through the prism of constitutional morality. Constitutions are a reflection of social morality. Laws are supposed to meet the requirements of the social order. The only thing permanent in the Constitution are human values. The values like liberty, fraternity and equality are eternal in nature. To see populism as a counterpoint to fundamental values is&nbsp;wrong. Populist politics, populist movements or popular participation have always changed the course of history or impacted the future of the existing power relations in a country. India is also undergoing similar changes. Indian populism is not anti-minority. It represents deep anxiety within the majority community which wants to express its cultural and religious history of the land in an unapologetic way.&nbsp;

Patriotism or nationalism is an important input in modern nation-state but nowhere it can exist in a vacuum. It is for this reason, the constitution begins with the word, India i.e.- Bharat. European and American populism may rest on anti-immigrant feeling but Indian populism rests on new political consensus emerging from a new middle class.

It is also a result of decades of social reformation within Hinduism which has worked to bridge caste cleavage for a desire to have a new pan-Indian Hindu identity. The old liberal politics was&nbsp;based on the division of Hindu society in different communities. It also conceived tribal and Dalit communities as different from caste Hindu communities. This imagination of Hindus as different communities is losing ground to reform movements that wanted a pan- Indian Hindu identity. To understand it as majoritarianism is an intellectual folly. Hinduism does not have a text and it has the ability to redefine itself. It has done so many times in the past. The changes today represent a fundamental shift in&nbsp;Indian society and reflect&nbsp;the consolidation of pan-Hindu opinion on NRC and Article 370.

It is not communal in nature. It is the acknowledgment of the fact that a pan-Hindu opinion can exist, which can be independent of caste and community values.&nbsp;

It is this shift that has provided major thrust for Indian populism which is also a result of many other factors like the desire for strong leadership and settling certain issues that have plagued India since independence.&nbsp;

This assertion should not be mistaken for aggression. Lawlessness should be mistaken for concerted effort. It is a reflection&nbsp;of a new consensus. The Opposition feels that economic woes may help to reverse the tide. This may not be enough as Congress too came back to power a number of times despite slow growth rates in the 50s and 60s.&nbsp;

Populist politics rest on hope and the desired future. It can also become impatient and sometimes violent to achieve the desired end.&nbsp;

To understand populism as an aberration is an intellectual disservice. Modi is a popular leader and his government is populist in nature. The Opposition can only counter it&nbsp;by creating an ideological narrative that is not divisive&nbsp;in nature or based on decisions that emanate from the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

The answer to populism cannot be restricted to arguments in the halls of universities. The answer to populism will need to come after understanding what made the people react the way they did and why.&nbsp;

It will require intense engagement with people on the ground which also includes faith, religion and culture in the discussion. In its absence,&nbsp;the current wave of populism will reign supreme, unless and until disturbed by grave external (war) or internal (economy) issues.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Populism of late has acquired a bad meaning globally. Populism is being associated with majoritarian politics which does not respect the minority and treats smaller communities with disrespect.

Populism of late has acquired a bad meaning globally. Populism is being associated with majoritarian politics which does not respect the minority and treats smaller communities with disrespect. It has also come to represent unitary, uniform and homogenous idea of a nation which does not accommodate ethnicities, regional languages and ideological aspirations of small communities. Populism instead of being understood as a critique of the previous arrangement of power internationally is being demonised as a religion of illiterate people who believe in half-baked truths. The attitude is self-defeating. It only creates a sense of disdain without any concerted effort to understand what propels communities merge small differences of culture, community, and language to achieve big goals. The first thing which populism does is to break the politics of political correctness. The sham of what can and what cannot be addressed in public is broken in the public domain. In India, it related to matter of faith, worship, civil code, Article 370 and anxiety of being overrun by immigrants. Populism in politics also reflects social disconnect with the system of power and not with individuals. A populist government coming to power does not reflect a mere change of power. It leads to change in the way people are governed and policies are made and implemented. It is for this reason Narendra Modi’s government is populist in nature and Vajpayee despite being a popular politician, did not lead a populist government. His government did not change the intellectual consensus on national issues. A populist government comes to power when people at large want change to be reflected not only through decisions but also through the process of decision-making. It is for this reason, what is construed by many as singular, authoritarian or undemocratic is seen by people as decisive, strong and path-breaking. And thus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received unending support from people across India on the abrogation of Article 370. It has not just created a new normal in the Valley but also changed the way Indians approach the Kashmir issue permanently. Populist governments can become reactionary but in a democratic system, they help channel deep anxieties and frustration felt by common men and women in the context of decision making. It is for this reason, populism has seeped into many countries in Europe. Populist politics is challenging limits of European integration which has been born as a consequence of the disastrous World War II. Indian populism is also challenging the political consensus born immediately after the partition. The old power order is only trying it grasp fundamental shift in Indian political order through the prism of constitutional morality. Constitutions are a reflection of social morality. Laws are supposed to meet the requirements of the social order. The only thing permanent in the Constitution are human values. The values like liberty, fraternity and equality are eternal in nature. To see populism as a counterpoint to fundamental values is wrong. Populist politics, populist movements or popular participation have always changed the course of history or impacted the future of the existing power relations in a country. India is also undergoing similar changes. Indian populism is not anti-minority. It represents deep anxiety within the majority community which wants to express its cultural and religious history of the land in an unapologetic way. Patriotism or nationalism is an important input in modern nation-state but nowhere it can exist in a vacuum. It is for this reason, the constitution begins with the word, India i.e.- Bharat. European and American populism may rest on anti-immigrant feeling but Indian populism rests on new political consensus emerging from a new middle class. It is also a result of decades of social reformation within Hinduism which has worked to bridge caste cleavage for a desire to have a new pan-Indian Hindu identity. The old liberal politics was based on the division of Hindu society in different communities. It also conceived tribal and Dalit communities as different from caste Hindu communities. This imagination of Hindus as different communities is losing ground to reform movements that wanted a pan- Indian Hindu identity. To understand it as majoritarianism is an intellectual folly. Hinduism does not have a text and it has the ability to redefine itself. It has done so many times in the past. The changes today represent a fundamental shift in Indian society and reflect the consolidation of pan-Hindu opinion on NRC and Article 370. It is not communal in nature. It is the acknowledgment of the fact that a pan-Hindu opinion can exist, which can be independent of caste and community values. It is this shift that has provided major thrust for Indian populism which is also a result of many other factors like the desire for strong leadership and settling certain issues that have plagued India since independence. This assertion should not be mistaken for aggression. Lawlessness should be mistaken for concerted effort. It is a reflection of a new consensus. The Opposition feels that economic woes may help to reverse the tide. This may not be enough as Congress too came back to power a number of times despite slow growth rates in the 50s and 60s. Populist politics rest on hope and the desired future. It can also become impatient and sometimes violent to achieve the desired end. To understand populism as an aberration is an intellectual disservice. Modi is a popular leader and his government is populist in nature. The Opposition can only counter it by creating an ideological narrative that is not divisive in nature or based on decisions that emanate from the Supreme Court. The answer to populism cannot be restricted to arguments in the halls of universities. The answer to populism will need to come after understanding what made the people react the way they did and why. It will require intense engagement with people on the ground which also includes faith, religion and culture in the discussion. In its absence, the current wave of populism will reign supreme, unless and until disturbed by grave external (war) or internal (economy) issues. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Understanding populism and Narendra Modi's 2019 mandate

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said that the government has decided to ban e-cigarettes due to health hazard.

Sitharaman said Union Cabinet has given its approval to ban e-cigarettes.&nbsp;

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman: The Union Cabinet has given approval to ban e-cigarettes. It means the production, manufacturing, import/export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertising related to e-cigarettes are banned. <a href="https://t.co/qayCrQHPZp">pic.twitter.com/qayCrQHPZp</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1174256535201091585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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''The production, manufacturing, import/export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertising related to e-cigarettes are banned,'' the finance minister added.

Reports say that some are probably getting into the habit of e-cigarettes as it seems cool, she said.&nbsp;

It is believed that there are more than 400 brands, none of which is manufactured in India, she said and added,&nbsp;e-cigarettes come in&nbsp;150 flavours.

More than 900,000 people die each year in the country due to tobacco-related illnesses, according to government data.

Health officials have proposed jail terms of up to three years, with a penalty of up to 500,000 rupees for repeat offenders against the new rules, according to a draft of the executive order.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said that the government has decided to ban e-cigarettes due to health hazard. Sitharaman said Union Cabinet has given its approval to ban e-cigarettes.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday said that the government has decided to ban e-cigarettes due to health hazard. Sitharaman said Union Cabinet has given its approval to ban e-cigarettes. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman: The Union Cabinet has given approval to ban e-cigarettes. It means the production, manufacturing, import/export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertising related to e-cigarettes are banned. pic.twitter.com/qayCrQHPZp — ANI (@ANI) September 18, 2019 × ''The production, manufacturing, import/export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertising related to e-cigarettes are banned,'' the finance minister added. Reports say that some are probably getting into the habit of e-cigarettes as it seems cool, she said. It is believed that there are more than 400 brands, none of which is manufactured in India, she said and added, e-cigarettes come in 150 flavours. More than 900,000 people die each year in the country due to tobacco-related illnesses, according to government data. Health officials have proposed jail terms of up to three years, with a penalty of up to 500,000 rupees for repeat offenders against the new rules, according to a draft of the executive order.

Indian government bans e-cigarettes citing health hazard

In a major boost to the primary and preventive healthcare sector, the Central government has built at least 20,942 Ayushman Bharat- Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) across the nation in the past one year.

These Health and Wellness Centres are a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's flagship health insurance scheme -- Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY).

It is based on the twin objective of providing primary healthcare to the people that include preventive healthcare and health promotion at the community level with a continuum of care approach for all.

"The target is to transform 1,50,000 Sub-Health Centres and Primary Health Centres (PHC) into AB-HWCs by December 2022. As on date, 12th September 2019, 20,942 AB-HWCs have been made operational across the country. The progress is good so far," said a senior official at the Union Health Ministry.

The AB-HWCs provides treatment for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) including universal screening and management of 30 plus population for common NCDs, palliative and rehabilitative care, Oral, Eye and ENT care, mental health and first-level care for emergencies and trauma.

It also offers health promotion and wellness activities like Yoga apart from services already being provided for Maternal and Child Health including immunization, and communicable diseases.

As per the data, Maharashtra has 2854 HWCs which is highest among all the States, Andhra Pradesh with 2177, Uttar Pradesh has 2125 operational HWCs, Tamil Nadu has 1798, Gujarat has got 1613 while Telangana has 1183 and Odisha has 1004 functioning HWCs till date, added the official.

The Sub-centre level AB-HWCs are to have Community Health Officers. "All the AB-HWCs have essential drugs and diagnostics free of cost. It also has robust IT systems to improve health care service delivery," he said.

It is important to note that last year in April, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the first health and wellness centre (HWC) in Chhattisgarh.

In a major boost to the primary and preventive healthcare sector, the Central government has built at least 20,942 Ayushman Bharat- Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) across the nation in the past one year.

In a major boost to the primary and preventive healthcare sector, the Central government has built at least 20,942 Ayushman Bharat- Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) across the nation in the past one year. These Health and Wellness Centres are a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's flagship health insurance scheme -- Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). It is based on the twin objective of providing primary healthcare to the people that include preventive healthcare and health promotion at the community level with a continuum of care approach for all. "The target is to transform 1,50,000 Sub-Health Centres and Primary Health Centres (PHC) into AB-HWCs by December 2022. As on date, 12th September 2019, 20,942 AB-HWCs have been made operational across the country. The progress is good so far," said a senior official at the Union Health Ministry. The AB-HWCs provides treatment for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) including universal screening and management of 30 plus population for common NCDs, palliative and rehabilitative care, Oral, Eye and ENT care, mental health and first-level care for emergencies and trauma. It also offers health promotion and wellness activities like Yoga apart from services already being provided for Maternal and Child Health including immunization, and communicable diseases. As per the data, Maharashtra has 2854 HWCs which is highest among all the States, Andhra Pradesh with 2177, Uttar Pradesh has 2125 operational HWCs, Tamil Nadu has 1798, Gujarat has got 1613 while Telangana has 1183 and Odisha has 1004 functioning HWCs till date, added the official. The Sub-centre level AB-HWCs are to have Community Health Officers. "All the AB-HWCs have essential drugs and diagnostics free of cost. It also has robust IT systems to improve health care service delivery," he said. It is important to note that last year in April, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the first health and wellness centre (HWC) in Chhattisgarh.

Indian government establishes over 20,000 Health and Wellness Centres across nation

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Friday held a rare closed-door consultation on the situation in Kashmir days after India revoked the special status to Jammu and Kashmir, sparking a fresh row with Pakistan. Watch this video to know more.

Breaking News: 4 permanent members back India at UNSC closed-door meet on J&K

Pakistan's efforts to raise Indian government's decision to end the special status of Jammu and Kashmir at the United Nations were thwarted on Friday as China's initiative to discuss the matter at the United Nations Security Council found no takers.

Breaking News: Pakistan's efforts to rake up Kashmir issue fall flat at UNSC

Sun Weidong, the newly-appointed Chinese Ambassador to India, has arrived here and said he looks forward to working with the Narendra Modi-led government to give a further boost to bilateral relations between the two countries.

Sun arrived in New Delhi along with his wife Bao Jiqing and was received by officials.

"Just arrived at Delhi with my wife Bao Jiqing. Sincere greetings to the #Indian people. Look forward to working with #Indian government and friends from all sectors for building better #China-#India relations," he tweeted on Sunday.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just arrived at Delhi with my wife Bao Jiqing. Sincere greetings to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> people. Look forward to working with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Indian?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Indian</a> government and friends from all sectors for buiding better <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a>-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> relations. <a href="https://t.co/2cQrwW5TPJ">pic.twitter.com/2cQrwW5TPJ</a>
— Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1152687684126572544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Last month, China appointed Sun as its new envoy to India in place of Luo Zhaohui, who was recently promoted to the post of the country's vice foreign minister.

A veteran diplomat, Sun served as the Director-General in China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Policy Planning Department before being appointed to the current post. He also served as China's Ambassador to Pakistan and is an expert in South Asian affairs.

His predecessor Luo is said to have played a significant role in the dousing of tensions between India and China during the Doklam standoff and was widely appreciated for his expertise in India and its foreign policy.

He was also known for his rapport with the political leaders of the country.

Sun Weidong, the newly-appointed Chinese Ambassador to India, has arrived here and said he looks forward to working with the Narendra Modi-led government to give a further boost to bilateral relations between the two countries.

Sun Weidong, the newly-appointed Chinese Ambassador to India, has arrived here and said he looks forward to working with the Narendra Modi-led government to give a further boost to bilateral relations between the two countries. Sun arrived in New Delhi along with his wife Bao Jiqing and was received by officials. "Just arrived at Delhi with my wife Bao Jiqing. Sincere greetings to the #Indian people. Look forward to working with #Indian government and friends from all sectors for building better #China-#India relations," he tweeted on Sunday. Just arrived at Delhi with my wife Bao Jiqing. Sincere greetings to the #Indian people. Look forward to working with #Indian government and friends from all sectors for buiding better #China-#India relations. pic.twitter.com/2cQrwW5TPJ — Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) July 20, 2019 × Last month, China appointed Sun as its new envoy to India in place of Luo Zhaohui, who was recently promoted to the post of the country's vice foreign minister. A veteran diplomat, Sun served as the Director-General in China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Policy Planning Department before being appointed to the current post. He also served as China's Ambassador to Pakistan and is an expert in South Asian affairs. His predecessor Luo is said to have played a significant role in the dousing of tensions between India and China during the Doklam standoff and was widely appreciated for his expertise in India and its foreign policy. He was also known for his rapport with the political leaders of the country.

Looking forward to working with Indian government for better ties: China's new envoy

The Indian government has donated 250 pre-fabricated houses to be used by displaced people in Myanmar's conflict-torn Rakhine state, officials said during a handover ceremony on Tuesday (July 9).

India donates houses to displaced people in Myanmar's Rakhine state

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-minister-kiren-rijiju-extremely-optimistic-of-india-lifting-world-cup-233837">India's government</a> aims to rise to 150 billion rupees ($2.18 billion) by reducing its stake in 18 state firms to 75%, a finance ministry official involved in the matter said on Monday, as it looks to boost revenues and rein in the fiscal deficit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-open-in-red-why-stock-markets-did-not-like-the-budget-233896">Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</a> set an ambitious target of 1.05 trillion rupees ($15.33 billion) from the sale of stakes in state-run companies, compared with 850 billion rupees the previous year, in her budget on Friday for the fiscal year that began on April 1.

While a third of the divestment target will be met by the outright sale of state enterprises, including Air India, the other sales will be done through a rule under which all listed entities must have a public float of at least 25% after three years of listing.

But governments have been putting this off for state firms, winning extensions from the Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI) each year.

"The government will aim to meet the SEBI norms in state-owned companies this fiscal," said the ministry official, who declined to be identified as he is not allowed to speak to the media, referring to the Securities and Exchange Board of India.

The government is planning to sell 10% each in state-owned reinsurers General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC) and New India Assurance (NIA) which will bring it's holding down to 75 percent in the two giant companies.

In her budget, Sitharaman proposed increasing the minimum public shareholding for listed entities to 35% from 25% as part of efforts to make the market more accessible to retail investors.

But the finance ministry official said the new regulation would require at least two years to go into force after approval by the SEBI.

Asia's third-largest economy is banking on state enterprise sales, dividends from the central bank and additional levies and taxes to meet a fiscal deficit target of 3.3% of gross domestic product from 3.4% previously announced.

The official said the government was willing to sell 100% of debt-ridden Air India after a previous offer of 76% control produced no buyers.

"Air India is our biggest bet," the official said. The government expects to get 150 billion rupees from selling the airline.

The government also plans to sell at least a 5% stake in Coal India and ONGC, the official said.

India's government aims to rise to 150 billion rupees ($2.18 billion) by reducing its stake in 18 state firms to 75%, a finance ministry official involved in the matter said on Monday, as it looks to boost revenues and rein in the fiscal deficit.

India's government aims to rise to 150 billion rupees ($2.18 billion) by reducing its stake in 18 state firms to 75%, a finance ministry official involved in the matter said on Monday, as it looks to boost revenues and rein in the fiscal deficit. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman set an ambitious target of 1.05 trillion rupees ($15.33 billion) from the sale of stakes in state-run companies, compared with 850 billion rupees the previous year, in her budget on Friday for the fiscal year that began on April 1. While a third of the divestment target will be met by the outright sale of state enterprises, including Air India, the other sales will be done through a rule under which all listed entities must have a public float of at least 25% after three years of listing. But governments have been putting this off for state firms, winning extensions from the Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI) each year. "The government will aim to meet the SEBI norms in state-owned companies this fiscal," said the ministry official, who declined to be identified as he is not allowed to speak to the media, referring to the Securities and Exchange Board of India. The government is planning to sell 10% each in state-owned reinsurers General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC) and New India Assurance (NIA) which will bring it's holding down to 75 percent in the two giant companies. In her budget, Sitharaman proposed increasing the minimum public shareholding for listed entities to 35% from 25% as part of efforts to make the market more accessible to retail investors. But the finance ministry official said the new regulation would require at least two years to go into force after approval by the SEBI. Asia's third-largest economy is banking on state enterprise sales, dividends from the central bank and additional levies and taxes to meet a fiscal deficit target of 3.3% of gross domestic product from 3.4% previously announced. The official said the government was willing to sell 100% of debt-ridden Air India after a previous offer of 76% control produced no buyers. "Air India is our biggest bet," the official said. The government expects to get 150 billion rupees from selling the airline. The government also plans to sell at least a 5% stake in Coal India and ONGC, the official said.

India aims to raise $2.18 billion by cutting stakes in 18 firms to 75%

This International Plastic Bag Free Day, a look at how waste plastic is turned into colourful tiles. #PlasticFreeDay #PlasticTiles #BeatPlasticPollution

Novel solution to fighting plastic pollution

Indian President hail Govt's achievements, In this video have a look at key takeaways.

Indian President hail Govt's achievements: Have a look at key takeaways

Indian government briefs ahead of G20 Summit. Suresh Prabhu said, 'climate change will be the main focus.'

Indian government briefing ahead of G20 Summit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/illegal-sand-mining-ap-to-use-gps-to-curb-menace-141153">Beach sand mining</a> ban on private players has resulted in the loss of exports worth Rs 4,000 crore and Rs 5,000 crore in revenue, mining body FIMI has said, demanding to rescind the order.

In its latest report "Mining Matters for India", Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) said the ban has put a large number of jobs at stake.

"In the case of beach sand minerals (BSM), the private sector has been debarred for mining, putting numerous jobs at stake and depriving the country of revenue to the extent of Rs 5,000 crore and exports of about Rs 4,000 crore annually," FIMI said in its latest report.

At present, only government companies are allowed to engage in beach sand mining after the Ministry of Mines vide a notification in February this year banned the private players.

"The Government should improve the regulatory mechanism and private sector should be continued to be allowed for mining of beach sand minerals and the Ministry of Mines notification...Barring private sector should be rescinded," it said.

The report also highlights Fimi's demand for considering the mining as an 'Independent Activity', and not as captive to any downstream metal industry such as steel, aluminium.

"While mining is a business of volumes, captive mining limits the scale of mining, neglects mineral exploration limited to plant requirement, leads to selective mining and wastage of resources," the report said.

The private sector in future should be the main source of investment in reconnaissance, exploration and mining with right to seamless transition, transferability with security of tenure, it said adding, the government agencies such as GSI, MECL etc may continue to perform the exploration and surveys on regional basis and in areas where private investment is not forthcoming.

"The Government of India should create a level playing field for both private (captive and non-captive) and Government sector companies in terms of tenure of leases, area selection, etc," it added.

Much of the contribution made by the mining industry to ensure raw material security for India's sustainable growth has not received the due attention of the stakeholders and society at large, it said.

FIMI also demanded that the contribution of mining should be viewed in light of the multiplier effect it has across the entire economy and not just its monetary contribution to GDP.

The industry body is committed to contributing to the sustained growth of the mineral sector in a sustainable manner for economic growth, raw material security of the country and socio-economic development particularly in remote and tribal areas, it said, and urged the government to initiate steps to ensure its rightful position as a growth engine in the economy and unlock the full potential of the Indian mineral sector.

Beach sand mining ban on private players has resulted in the loss of exports worth Rs 4,000 crore and Rs 5,000 crore in revenue, mining body FIMI has said, demanding to rescind the order.

Beach sand mining ban on private players has resulted in the loss of exports worth Rs 4,000 crore and Rs 5,000 crore in revenue, mining body FIMI has said, demanding to rescind the order. In its latest report "Mining Matters for India", Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) said the ban has put a large number of jobs at stake. "In the case of beach sand minerals (BSM), the private sector has been debarred for mining, putting numerous jobs at stake and depriving the country of revenue to the extent of Rs 5,000 crore and exports of about Rs 4,000 crore annually," FIMI said in its latest report. At present, only government companies are allowed to engage in beach sand mining after the Ministry of Mines vide a notification in February this year banned the private players. "The Government should improve the regulatory mechanism and private sector should be continued to be allowed for mining of beach sand minerals and the Ministry of Mines notification...Barring private sector should be rescinded," it said. The report also highlights Fimi's demand for considering the mining as an 'Independent Activity', and not as captive to any downstream metal industry such as steel, aluminium. "While mining is a business of volumes, captive mining limits the scale of mining, neglects mineral exploration limited to plant requirement, leads to selective mining and wastage of resources," the report said. The private sector in future should be the main source of investment in reconnaissance, exploration and mining with right to seamless transition, transferability with security of tenure, it said adding, the government agencies such as GSI, MECL etc may continue to perform the exploration and surveys on regional basis and in areas where private investment is not forthcoming. "The Government of India should create a level playing field for both private (captive and non-captive) and Government sector companies in terms of tenure of leases, area selection, etc," it added. Much of the contribution made by the mining industry to ensure raw material security for India's sustainable growth has not received the due attention of the stakeholders and society at large, it said. FIMI also demanded that the contribution of mining should be viewed in light of the multiplier effect it has across the entire economy and not just its monetary contribution to GDP. The industry body is committed to contributing to the sustained growth of the mineral sector in a sustainable manner for economic growth, raw material security of the country and socio-economic development particularly in remote and tribal areas, it said, and urged the government to initiate steps to ensure its rightful position as a growth engine in the economy and unlock the full potential of the Indian mineral sector.

Federation of Indian Mineral Industries urges govt to lift beach sand mining ban on private firms

Watch 'India Watch.' This is the show which brings you the latest headlines from India. Latest, Verified updates & Unbiased analysis as the World watches this Country. So, It's important to bring the right narrative to bring you the right stories.

Watch: India Watch, 14th June 2019

Government plans Rs. 6 lakhs crore spectrum auction. In 5G trials, Government to priorities security. This auction to follow expert panel recommendations. Government priorities 5G over revenue. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: 5G Trials: India Plans Spectrum Auction

PM Avoids Pakistan's Airspace On His Way To Bishkek For SCO Summit. PM's Flight Route To Bishkek For SCO Summit Is Already Making Headlines. Amidst Strained Ties With Pakistan, Modi Avoids Pakistan's Airspace. What's The Government's Pakistan Strategy? How Will Modi Government 2.0 Approach The Pakistan Problem.

Gravitas: SCO Summit: What Is India's Strategy To Counter Pakistan?

Monsoon Session of Parliament will begin in 10 days from now. 39 government bills are pending in Rajya Sabha. Govt need opposition on board to pass these bills. Poor relations between BJP & Congress hurt parliament. NDA does not have the majority in Rajya Sabha. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Govt Reaches Out To Opposition

Home Minister Amit Shah Holds Meeting With Officials Over Delimitation Exercise In Jammu & Kashmir.

Gravitas: Government Mulls Delimitation In J&K: Home Minister Meets Officials

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik on Thursday accused the Indian government of engaging in a "witch-hunt" and putting pressure on the Interpol to issue a red corner notice against him.

In a statement issued here, Naik, who fled India in 2016, said he was aware of the "pressure the Indian government was applying on the Interpol" to issue a red corner notice against him.

"It's part of an elaborate witch-hunt. But having verified with a few member countries, I can confirm that there is no red corner notice against me as of date," he claimed.

"One of the Indian newspapers seems to have jumped the gun and reported internal deliberations of the Indian government which, as a matter of fact, have been going on for over two years now," he said.

Naik said the Interpol had already cancelled a red corner notice against him once.

"And it's been one-and-a-half years since the government submitted a charge sheet and started applying pressure on the Interpol. But as things stand, I have no reason to believe that Interpol will succumb to any kind of undue pressure," he said.

Naik said to be in Malaysia at present, has been under investigation since 2016, when the Centre banned his Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) for five years.

He is being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on several charges under the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

The preacher, declared a proclaimed offender by a special NIA court here in June 2017, is accused of inciting youth to take up terror activities, giving hate speeches and promoting enmity between communities.

The NIA filed a charge sheet against Naik and others before a Mumbai court in October 2017.

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik on Thursday accused the Indian government of engaging in a "witch-hunt" and putting pressure on the Interpol to issue a red corner notice against him.

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik on Thursday accused the Indian government of engaging in a "witch-hunt" and putting pressure on the Interpol to issue a red corner notice against him. In a statement issued here, Naik, who fled India in 2016, said he was aware of the "pressure the Indian government was applying on the Interpol" to issue a red corner notice against him. "It's part of an elaborate witch-hunt. But having verified with a few member countries, I can confirm that there is no red corner notice against me as of date," he claimed. "One of the Indian newspapers seems to have jumped the gun and reported internal deliberations of the Indian government which, as a matter of fact, have been going on for over two years now," he said. Naik said the Interpol had already cancelled a red corner notice against him once. "And it's been one-and-a-half years since the government submitted a charge sheet and started applying pressure on the Interpol. But as things stand, I have no reason to believe that Interpol will succumb to any kind of undue pressure," he said. Naik said to be in Malaysia at present, has been under investigation since 2016, when the Centre banned his Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) for five years. He is being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on several charges under the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). The preacher, declared a proclaimed offender by a special NIA court here in June 2017, is accused of inciting youth to take up terror activities, giving hate speeches and promoting enmity between communities. The NIA filed a charge sheet against Naik and others before a Mumbai court in October 2017.

Zakir Naik alleges political witch-hunt after Interpol takes up India's red corner notice against him

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people.&nbsp;

While speaking to WION, the minister appreciated India for its help.

WION: What is the current situation in your country?

Ruwan Wijewardene: All I can say is that citizen of this country has to stay alert, vigilant for the next few days. I believe we will have the situation under control in a couple of days until then our people have to be more vigilant.

WION: How India has helped you?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Indian government has been very helpful. From the beginning, they have given us the assistance we have been wanting to do the investigation we want. They are giving information. They have been very helpful. And as always we look to our neighbour when a crisis happens in our country.

WION: India had provided intelligence before the attack, &nbsp;what will you say on that?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Our intelligence agencies have links with intelligence agencies of other countries. So, I think, there has been information coming from many sources. Our intelligence had been briefed. And certain officials were notified about a possible attack but due to some lapse of security arrangements, most of the officials were not notified about the threats, that is including me and the prime minister. So, there has been a lapse on that regard but the president has promised an enquiry as to why the lapse happened.&nbsp;

WION: You said, there is a New Zealand link. Sri Lanka attacks was a retaliation to New Zealand attack?

Ruwan Wijewardene: From the assessment that is available by our intelligence services, they believe that it was definitely a motivational attack. A fact, for this group to conduct bombings on Easter Sunday. The group had started off by defacing Buddhist status but they never took up to this magnitude. So, to do on Easter Sunday, our intelligence services had input, it was definitely a motivational factor.

WION: How many countries have offered you help?

Ruwan Wijewardene: Right now we have assistance from the US, UK, India, Australia. UAE ambassador also called and offered us help.

WION: Number of people who died in the attack?

Ruwan Wijewardene: 359 people have died in the attack among which 39 were foreigners.&nbsp;

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people.

Deputy Defence Minister of Sri Lanka, Ruwan Wijewardene has said people in Sri Lanka need to be more vigilant in the aftermath of the terror attack that killed around 359 people. While speaking to WION, the minister appreciated India for its help. WION: What is the current situation in your country? Ruwan Wijewardene: All I can say is that citizen of this country has to stay alert, vigilant for the next few days. I believe we will have the situation under control in a couple of days until then our people have to be more vigilant. WION: How India has helped you? Ruwan Wijewardene: Indian government has been very helpful. From the beginning, they have given us the assistance we have been wanting to do the investigation we want. They are giving information. They have been very helpful. And as always we look to our neighbour when a crisis happens in our country. WION: India had provided intelligence before the attack, what will you say on that? Ruwan Wijewardene: Our intelligence agencies have links with intelligence agencies of other countries. So, I think, there has been information coming from many sources. Our intelligence had been briefed. And certain officials were notified about a possible attack but due to some lapse of security arrangements, most of the officials were not notified about the threats, that is including me and the prime minister. So, there has been a lapse on that regard but the president has promised an enquiry as to why the lapse happened. WION: You said, there is a New Zealand link. Sri Lanka attacks was a retaliation to New Zealand attack? Ruwan Wijewardene: From the assessment that is available by our intelligence services, they believe that it was definitely a motivational attack. A fact, for this group to conduct bombings on Easter Sunday. The group had started off by defacing Buddhist status but they never took up to this magnitude. So, to do on Easter Sunday, our intelligence services had input, it was definitely a motivational factor. WION: How many countries have offered you help? Ruwan Wijewardene: Right now we have assistance from the US, UK, India, Australia. UAE ambassador also called and offered us help. WION: Number of people who died in the attack? Ruwan Wijewardene: 359 people have died in the attack among which 39 were foreigners.

Indian government has been very helpful: Sri Lanka's Deputy Defence Minister Ruwan Wijewardene to WION

Govt steps in to rescue Jet Airways, asks state-run banks to help

India's government has asked state-run banks to rescue privately held Jet Airways without pushing it into bankruptcy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to avert thousands of job losses weeks before a general election, two people within the administration told Reuters.

The finance ministry has in the past year sought regular updates from the banks, led by State Bank of India (SBI), on Jet's financial health, the people said. In recent months, the banks have provided weekly updates about a revival plan and also sought government advice, the people added.

"Top officials at the finance ministry seek regular updates on the issue," said an official at one of Jet's lenders, who did not want to be identified as discussions are private.

Details of the discussion between the finance ministry and bankers on bailing out Jet have not been previously reported.

New Delhi has urged state-run banks to convert debt into equity and take a stake in Jet in a rare move in India to use taxpayer money to save a struggling private-sector company from bankruptcy. The two people plus one more source, however, said this would be "transitory" and lenders could sell the stakes once Jet revives.

The government has also nudged its 49 per cent-owned National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) - created to invest in stalled and new infrastructure projects - to buy a stake in Jet, a separate government source said.

Saddled with more than US $1 billion of debt, Jet is struggling to stay aloft. It has delayed payments to banks, suppliers, employees and aircraft lessors - some of which have begun terminating lease deals.

The world's biggest democracy is gearing up for an election next month and its booming aviation sector, which employs close to a million people, has been one of the job-creation success stories that Modi can point to as he seeks a second term.

It is crucial for India that Jet revives as the fall of its second-largest airline could have "disastrous consequences for the investment climate" in the sector, a top government official said.

The official is concerned that if Jet collapses it could drive up airfare in a fast-growing market, wiping out efforts to bring low-cost air travel to India's hinterland.

A chaotic end could also make it more difficult for the government to sell a stake in Air India, at least in the short run. Last year, it failed to sell part of its stake in the indebted carrier which currently relies on taxpayer money.

If the government's plan for Jet succeeds, then state-run banks including SBI and Punjab National Bank (PNB) as well as NIIF would together own at least a third of the airline until they find a new buyer.

Currently, Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways is Jet's largest shareholder with a 24 per cent stake.

India's finance ministry, SBI, PNB and Jet Airways did not respond to requests for comment.

KINGFISHER'S COLLAPSE

Most companies in Jet's financial condition would be placed by creditors into India's new bankruptcy process, two bankers said. However, memories of the chaos sparked by Kingfisher Airlines's demise in 2012 have prompted the government to seek a more sober road to rescue, they said.

Kingfisher's bankruptcy caused job losses, lessors lost millions of dollars and banks took massive writedowns.

Putting what is essentially a services provider like Jet through the bankruptcy process would diminish its value because it owns no major assets, unlike a manufacturing company, as most of its planes are leased, said another government official.

If it is pushed into bankruptcy and lessors start pulling even more planes out of service, there would be nothing left for any potential investors, the official said. Already 41 planes have been grounded by lessors in the past three months, leading to flight cancellations.

While on the surface Jet's future still hangs in the balance with its main shareholder Etihad at loggerheads over the final terms of any deal, behind-the-scenes support from the government means there is likely to be a bailout.

But there are no easy options, one of the sources said, adding that the lenders do not have the expertise to run an airline so they have to decide what to do once they convert their debt into equity.

New Delhi is also backing a proposal for Jet's founder and Chairman Naresh Goyal to step down if it means saving the airline, another official said.

"Saving Jet is not equivalent to saving Goyal," the official said.

RISING AIRFARE

Jet, with its fleet of 119 planes, once controlled a sixth of India's domestic aviation market. The 25-year-old airline is also one of only two full-service carriers that flies to international destinations. The other is Air India.

The government ideally wants four to six major airlines to ensure fares are competitive and passengers have greater choice, according to the top government source.

India plans to build 100 new airports costing about $60 billion which would need a steady stream of flights to sustain them, and that is possible only if there are enough airlines, a separate official said.

"The investment in these airports will solely depend on operators willing to have regular flights at affordable prices and one operator going bankrupt does not help," he said.

India's government has asked state-run banks to rescue privately held Jet Airways without pushing it into bankruptcy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to avert thousands of job losses weeks before a general election, two people within the administration told Reuters.

India's government has asked state-run banks to rescue privately held Jet Airways without pushing it into bankruptcy, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to avert thousands of job losses weeks before a general election, two people within the administration told Reuters. The finance ministry has in the past year sought regular updates from the banks, led by State Bank of India (SBI), on Jet's financial health, the people said. In recent months, the banks have provided weekly updates about a revival plan and also sought government advice, the people added. "Top officials at the finance ministry seek regular updates on the issue," said an official at one of Jet's lenders, who did not want to be identified as discussions are private. Details of the discussion between the finance ministry and bankers on bailing out Jet have not been previously reported. New Delhi has urged state-run banks to convert debt into equity and take a stake in Jet in a rare move in India to use taxpayer money to save a struggling private-sector company from bankruptcy. The two people plus one more source, however, said this would be "transitory" and lenders could sell the stakes once Jet revives. The government has also nudged its 49 per cent-owned National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) - created to invest in stalled and new infrastructure projects - to buy a stake in Jet, a separate government source said. Saddled with more than US $1 billion of debt, Jet is struggling to stay aloft. It has delayed payments to banks, suppliers, employees and aircraft lessors - some of which have begun terminating lease deals. The world's biggest democracy is gearing up for an election next month and its booming aviation sector, which employs close to a million people, has been one of the job-creation success stories that Modi can point to as he seeks a second term. It is crucial for India that Jet revives as the fall of its second-largest airline could have "disastrous consequences for the investment climate" in the sector, a top government official said. The official is concerned that if Jet collapses it could drive up airfare in a fast-growing market, wiping out efforts to bring low-cost air travel to India's hinterland. A chaotic end could also make it more difficult for the government to sell a stake in Air India, at least in the short run. Last year, it failed to sell part of its stake in the indebted carrier which currently relies on taxpayer money. If the government's plan for Jet succeeds, then state-run banks including SBI and Punjab National Bank (PNB) as well as NIIF would together own at least a third of the airline until they find a new buyer. Currently, Abu Dhabi's Etihad Airways is Jet's largest shareholder with a 24 per cent stake. India's finance ministry, SBI, PNB and Jet Airways did not respond to requests for comment. KINGFISHER'S COLLAPSE Most companies in Jet's financial condition would be placed by creditors into India's new bankruptcy process, two bankers said. However, memories of the chaos sparked by Kingfisher Airlines's demise in 2012 have prompted the government to seek a more sober road to rescue, they said. Kingfisher's bankruptcy caused job losses, lessors lost millions of dollars and banks took massive writedowns. Putting what is essentially a services provider like Jet through the bankruptcy process would diminish its value because it owns no major assets, unlike a manufacturing company, as most of its planes are leased, said another government official. If it is pushed into bankruptcy and lessors start pulling even more planes out of service, there would be nothing left for any potential investors, the official said. Already 41 planes have been grounded by lessors in the past three months, leading to flight cancellations. While on the surface Jet's future still hangs in the balance with its main shareholder Etihad at loggerheads over the final terms of any deal, behind-the-scenes support from the government means there is likely to be a bailout. But there are no easy options, one of the sources said, adding that the lenders do not have the expertise to run an airline so they have to decide what to do once they convert their debt into equity. New Delhi is also backing a proposal for Jet's founder and Chairman Naresh Goyal to step down if it means saving the airline, another official said. "Saving Jet is not equivalent to saving Goyal," the official said. RISING AIRFARE Jet, with its fleet of 119 planes, once controlled a sixth of India's domestic aviation market. The 25-year-old airline is also one of only two full-service carriers that flies to international destinations. The other is Air India. The government ideally wants four to six major airlines to ensure fares are competitive and passengers have greater choice, according to the top government source. India plans to build 100 new airports costing about $60 billion which would need a steady stream of flights to sustain them, and that is possible only if there are enough airlines, a separate official said. "The investment in these airports will solely depend on operators willing to have regular flights at affordable prices and one operator going bankrupt does not help," he said.

Government asked banks to save Jet Airways, avoid bankruptcy: Sources

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-options-available-if-there-is-another-terrorist-strike-official-sources-201309">All options available if there is another terrorist strike: Official sources</a>

Sources in the Indian government have said "all options will be available" if the country is hit by another terrorist strike.&nbsp;

The sources told the news agency PTI that India will insist on "concrete steps" by Pakistan to dismantle terrorist infrastructure on its soil and that since Balakot, India has been "trying to build maximum pressure on Pakistan".&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-puts-jaish-e-mohammed-chief-masood-azhars-son-brother-under-preventive-detention-201325">Pakistan arrests Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar's brother</a>

Pakistan has arrested the brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar.&nbsp;

Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi said Tuesday at a press conference that Mufti Abdur Rauf had been arrested.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-says-it-stopped-indian-submarine-from-entering-its-waters-201282">Pakistan says it stopped Indian submarine from entering its waters</a>

Pakistan has stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters, the navy said Tuesday, as tensions continue to run high between the nuclear-armed foes.

The development came days after a rare aerial dogfight between India and Pakistan over the disputed territory of Kashmir ignited fears of an all-out conflict, with world powers rushing to urge restraint.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-foreign-minister-jeremy-hunt-says-reasonably-positive-signs-from-eu-over-brexit-deal-changes-201281">UK Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt says 'reasonably positive' signs from EU over Brexit deal changes</a>

Foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Tuesday the European Union was giving "reasonably positive" signals about giving Britain changes to Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal which could help it get parliamentary backing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-score-india-all-set-to-face-visitors-australia-in-2nd-odi-201250">Live score: Finch, Khawaja fall in quick succession, Australia 83/2 after 15.3 overs</a>

India all-out for 250 in 48.2 overs. India captain Virat Kohli top-scored with 116 off 120 balls while Vijay Shankar made 46 of 41.

All options available if there is another terrorist strike: Official sources Sources in the Indian government have said "all options will be available" if the country is hit by another terrorist strike.

All options available if there is another terrorist strike: Official sources Sources in the Indian government have said "all options will be available" if the country is hit by another terrorist strike. The sources told the news agency PTI that India will insist on "concrete steps" by Pakistan to dismantle terrorist infrastructure on its soil and that since Balakot, India has been "trying to build maximum pressure on Pakistan". Pakistan arrests Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar's brother Pakistan has arrested the brother of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar. Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi said Tuesday at a press conference that Mufti Abdur Rauf had been arrested. Pakistan says it stopped Indian submarine from entering its waters Pakistan has stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters, the navy said Tuesday, as tensions continue to run high between the nuclear-armed foes. The development came days after a rare aerial dogfight between India and Pakistan over the disputed territory of Kashmir ignited fears of an all-out conflict, with world powers rushing to urge restraint. UK Foreign Minister Jeremy Hunt says 'reasonably positive' signs from EU over Brexit deal changes Foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said on Tuesday the European Union was giving "reasonably positive" signals about giving Britain changes to Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal which could help it get parliamentary backing. Live score: Finch, Khawaja fall in quick succession, Australia 83/2 after 15.3 overs India all-out for 250 in 48.2 overs. India captain Virat Kohli top-scored with 116 off 120 balls while Vijay Shankar made 46 of 41.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Indian government reacts to statement released by OIC

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/enhance-security-government-issues-alert-to-at-all-airports-airlines-200723">Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines</a>

The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-india-vs-australia-1st-odi-at-rajiv-gandhi-international-stadium-200657">Live updates | INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Dhawan out for nought, India are 4/1 after 2 overs</a>

Nathan Coulter-Nile to Dhawan, caught out by Maxwell.&nbsp;

It's no doubt a big wicket for Australia and it might create pressure on the India side.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli comes to the crease.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-meets-wing-commander-abhinandan-he-is-currently-undergoing-cooling-process-200730">Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling process', is met by Nirmala Sitharaman</a>

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday.&nbsp;

Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">SpaceX astronaut capsule separates from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">rocket</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">, is en route to International Space Station</a>

NASA and SpaceX celebrated the successful launch Saturday of a new astronaut capsule on a week-long round trip to the International Space Station -- a key step towards resuming manned space flights from US soil after an eight-year break.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/samjhauta-express-services-restored-train-to-run-from-india-on-sunday-railways-200726">Samjhauta Express services restored; train to run from India to Pak to Sunday</a>

The Samjhauta Express will leave for Pakistan from Delhi on Sunday after the two neighbours agreed to operationalise services at their ends, a senior railway official told PTI.

The announcement came a day after Pakistan released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments. Live updates | INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Dhawan out for nought, India are 4/1 after 2 overs Nathan Coulter-Nile to Dhawan, caught out by Maxwell. It's no doubt a big wicket for Australia and it might create pressure on the India side. Skipper Kohli comes to the crease. Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling process', is met by Nirmala Sitharaman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday. Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi. SpaceX astronaut capsule separates from rocket, is en route to International Space Station NASA and SpaceX celebrated the successful launch Saturday of a new astronaut capsule on a week-long round trip to the International Space Station -- a key step towards resuming manned space flights from US soil after an eight-year break. Samjhauta Express services restored; train to run from India to Pak to Sunday The Samjhauta Express will leave for Pakistan from Delhi on Sunday after the two neighbours agreed to operationalise services at their ends, a senior railway official told PTI. The announcement came a day after Pakistan released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

Fineprint: Indian govt convenes all-party meet, says it's an anti-terror operation

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