Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12.

"A few days ago, the nation showed its utter disgust at a story of how a top UPA Minister kept pushing a narrative that our army will do a coup.

Every Indian knows that our army can do no such thing, but look at the Congress attitude," Modi said addressing a public rally here.

The Prime Minister's comments come days after Union minister and former Army chief V K Singh said he had written to Modi seeking a probe into the alleged planting of false stories about an attempted coup during the UPA-II government in 2012.

Singh had said, "Indian Army loves the country and can never go against it."

Modi also mentioned about the government fulfilling the four decades old demand for One Rank One Pension, and said: "Congress also leaves no opportunity to belittle our Army."

He said one of the Congress leaders used unpardonable language for the army chief, at a time when the Indian army went across the border to do a surgical strike.

The Prime Minister said the NDA government "is a government for each and every Indian. We are leaving no stone unturned for future-proofing India."

His comments assume significance in the wake of repeated attacks from main opposition DMK and its friendly parties in Tamil Nadu that the BJP government at the Centre was working against the interests of the minorities.

Explaining what he meant by future-proofing India, the Prime Minister said it was a reference to a holistic approach to development that safeguards the well-being of our "coming generations."

He cited the 'speed doubling' seen in the pace of road constructions, Bharat Mala project that connected the remotest corners of the nation and 'Sagarmala' that harnessed the power of ports, among other things, while referring to the holistic approach to development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12. "A few days ago, the nation showed its utter disgust at a story of how a top UPA Minister kept pushing a narrative that our army will do a coup. Every Indian knows that our army can do no such thing, but look at the Congress attitude," Modi said addressing a public rally here. The Prime Minister's comments come days after Union minister and former Army chief V K Singh said he had written to Modi seeking a probe into the alleged planting of false stories about an attempted coup during the UPA-II government in 2012. Singh had said, "Indian Army loves the country and can never go against it." Modi also mentioned about the government fulfilling the four decades old demand for One Rank One Pension, and said: "Congress also leaves no opportunity to belittle our Army." He said one of the Congress leaders used unpardonable language for the army chief, at a time when the Indian army went across the border to do a surgical strike. The Prime Minister said the NDA government "is a government for each and every Indian. We are leaving no stone unturned for future-proofing India." His comments assume significance in the wake of repeated attacks from main opposition DMK and its friendly parties in Tamil Nadu that the BJP government at the Centre was working against the interests of the minorities. Explaining what he meant by future-proofing India, the Prime Minister said it was a reference to a holistic approach to development that safeguards the well-being of our "coming generations." He cited the 'speed doubling' seen in the pace of road constructions, Bharat Mala project that connected the remotest corners of the nation and 'Sagarmala' that harnessed the power of ports, among other things, while referring to the holistic approach to development.

Every Indian knows that our Army will never attempt a coup: PM Narendra Modi

Pakistan to provide consular access to over 100 Indian prisoners by the end of this month

The Indian media and entertainment industry is estimated to touch $52,683 million (around Rs 3.73 lakh crore) by 2022 led by increasing disposable income, population and content consumption across the formats, according to a survey.

Besides the traditional media such as TV and cinema, new-age digital platforms such as over-the-top (OTT) services would play a key role, said an Assocham-PwC joint study.

By 2022, the Indian video OTT market will be among the top-10 markets globally with a market size of $823 million (Rs 5,363 crore), said the study.

"The entertainment and media industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.7 per cent from $30,364 million in 2017 to $52,683 million in 2022," the report said.

It further added: "TV, cinema and OTT will collectively account for 46 per cent of the overall growth in the Indian entertainment and media industry for the period 2017 to 2022."

The survey added that both the conventional media industry as well OTT players will coexist in India and achieve impressive growth in the coming years.

With the launch of OTT services, video-on-demand (VoD) has been at the forefront of disruption in the media industry, and the production budgets of companies such as Netflix and Amazon now rival those of traditional studios, said PwC India Partner and Leader (Entertainment and Media Sector) Frank D'Souza.

"Globally, the OTT market is set to grow at a CAGR of 10.1 per cent during the period 2017-2022. During the same period in India, the segment is expected to grow from $297 million (Rs 1,932 crore) to $823 million (Rs 5,363 crore) in 2022 at a CAGR of 22.6 per cent," it added.

In this, subscription video on demand (SVoD) will hold a majority share throughout the projected period, it said.

According to the joint survey, over the past decade, the VoD market has evolved across the world, including India, and now with the increase in smartphone penetration and lower data tariffs, it is showing promising growth here.

"Mobile video advertising (largely AVoD) is the fastest growing sub-segment of India's Internet advertising market, projected to rise at a CAGR of 32.8 per cent from 2017 to 2022 and to reach USD 317 million (Rs 2,064 crore) by 2022," it added.

Data consumption in India will grow from 71,67,103 million MB in 2017 to 10,96,58,793 million MB in 2022.

"With lower-than-ever data tariffs and increasing smartphone penetration in the country, which is around 40 per cent as of 2017, it is safe to assume that the VoD market will be a significant beneficiary of these developments," it added.

Now, the regional and quality content, delivered with a focus on unique and customised 'user experience' through the use of technology, is set to become the mainstay of success for VoD service providers.

However, it also added that the country's per-capita media and entertainment spending will be capped at a mere USD USD 32 by 2021.

"The spend is much lower than that of China, which will stand at USD 222 for the same period, and that of the USA, which will have the highest spend at USD 2,260," it added. 
&nbsp;

The Indian media and entertainment industry is estimated to touch $52,683 million (around Rs 3.73 lakh crore) by 2022 led by increasing disposable income, population and content consumption across the formats, according to a survey.

The Indian media and entertainment industry is estimated to touch $52,683 million (around Rs 3.73 lakh crore) by 2022 led by increasing disposable income, population and content consumption across the formats, according to a survey. Besides the traditional media such as TV and cinema, new-age digital platforms such as over-the-top (OTT) services would play a key role, said an Assocham-PwC joint study. By 2022, the Indian video OTT market will be among the top-10 markets globally with a market size of $823 million (Rs 5,363 crore), said the study. "The entertainment and media industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.7 per cent from $30,364 million in 2017 to $52,683 million in 2022," the report said. It further added: "TV, cinema and OTT will collectively account for 46 per cent of the overall growth in the Indian entertainment and media industry for the period 2017 to 2022." The survey added that both the conventional media industry as well OTT players will coexist in India and achieve impressive growth in the coming years. With the launch of OTT services, video-on-demand (VoD) has been at the forefront of disruption in the media industry, and the production budgets of companies such as Netflix and Amazon now rival those of traditional studios, said PwC India Partner and Leader (Entertainment and Media Sector) Frank D'Souza. "Globally, the OTT market is set to grow at a CAGR of 10.1 per cent during the period 2017-2022. During the same period in India, the segment is expected to grow from $297 million (Rs 1,932 crore) to $823 million (Rs 5,363 crore) in 2022 at a CAGR of 22.6 per cent," it added. In this, subscription video on demand (SVoD) will hold a majority share throughout the projected period, it said. According to the joint survey, over the past decade, the VoD market has evolved across the world, including India, and now with the increase in smartphone penetration and lower data tariffs, it is showing promising growth here. "Mobile video advertising (largely AVoD) is the fastest growing sub-segment of India's Internet advertising market, projected to rise at a CAGR of 32.8 per cent from 2017 to 2022 and to reach USD 317 million (Rs 2,064 crore) by 2022," it added. Data consumption in India will grow from 71,67,103 million MB in 2017 to 10,96,58,793 million MB in 2022. "With lower-than-ever data tariffs and increasing smartphone penetration in the country, which is around 40 per cent as of 2017, it is safe to assume that the VoD market will be a significant beneficiary of these developments," it added. Now, the regional and quality content, delivered with a focus on unique and customised 'user experience' through the use of technology, is set to become the mainstay of success for VoD service providers. However, it also added that the country's per-capita media and entertainment spending will be capped at a mere USD USD 32 by 2021. "The spend is much lower than that of China, which will stand at USD 222 for the same period, and that of the USA, which will have the highest spend at USD 2,260," it added.

Indian media and entertainment industry may touch $52,683 million by 2022: Study

Indian Army rescues stranded tourists from Sikkim

Indian regulators took J&J talc samples from company's plant in Himachal Pradesh

French FM to meet Indian counterpart

A 38-year-old Indian national has been arrested on charges of smuggling foreign nationals into the US for private financial gain, according to Department of Justice.

Bhavin Patel is charged by indictment with one count of conspiracy to bring in and harbour aliens and six counts of smuggling foreign nationals into the US via commercial airline flights, New Jersey US Attorney Craig Carpenito said on Monday.

He is scheduled to be arraigned on December 18, 2018, before US District Judge John Michael Vazquez. Arrested by special agents of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) on December 7, at Newark Liberty International Airport, Patel if convicted faces a maximum potential sentence of 10 years in prison.

Each substantive charge of smuggling carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

In its court papers, HSI said that it's beginning in October 2013, an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a smuggler began meeting with Patel in Bangkok. Patel told the undercover law enforcement officer that he wanted to smuggle Indian nationals into the US.

On three occasions, Patel or his conspirator transported the Indian nationals to an airport in Thailand, at which point the undercover law enforcement officer would purportedly use his contacts to smuggle them into the US via commercial airline flights.

Patel agreed to wire down payments for each individual to be smuggled into the US and to pay a balance of tens of thousands of dollars for each individual once the foreign nationals arrived in the United States, HSI alleged in its court papers.

Over the ensuing months, Patel arranged for six Indian nationals to be brought to Thailand for smuggling into the United States via Newark Liberty International Airport, HIS alleged.&nbsp;

A 38-year-old Indian national has been arrested on charges of smuggling foreign nationals into the US for private financial gain, according to Department of Justice.

A 38-year-old Indian national has been arrested on charges of smuggling foreign nationals into the US for private financial gain, according to Department of Justice. Bhavin Patel is charged by indictment with one count of conspiracy to bring in and harbour aliens and six counts of smuggling foreign nationals into the US via commercial airline flights, New Jersey US Attorney Craig Carpenito said on Monday. He is scheduled to be arraigned on December 18, 2018, before US District Judge John Michael Vazquez. Arrested by special agents of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) on December 7, at Newark Liberty International Airport, Patel if convicted faces a maximum potential sentence of 10 years in prison. Each substantive charge of smuggling carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison. In its court papers, HSI said that it's beginning in October 2013, an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a smuggler began meeting with Patel in Bangkok. Patel told the undercover law enforcement officer that he wanted to smuggle Indian nationals into the US. On three occasions, Patel or his conspirator transported the Indian nationals to an airport in Thailand, at which point the undercover law enforcement officer would purportedly use his contacts to smuggle them into the US via commercial airline flights. Patel agreed to wire down payments for each individual to be smuggled into the US and to pay a balance of tens of thousands of dollars for each individual once the foreign nationals arrived in the United States, HSI alleged in its court papers. Over the ensuing months, Patel arranged for six Indian nationals to be brought to Thailand for smuggling into the United States via Newark Liberty International Airport, HIS alleged.

Indian arrested on charges of smuggling foreign nationals into US

Indian cardiologist performs world's first telerobotic surgery

The acrimonious end to coach Ramesh Powar's tenure Monday split the Indian women's cricket team with T20 captain Harmanpreet Kaur and her deputy Smriti Mandhana demanding his return despite senior player <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/few-people-in-power-are-out-to-destroy-me-says-mithali-raj-179751">Mithali Raj's fallout with him</a>.&nbsp;

Committee of Administrators (COA) chairman Vinod Rai told PTI that Harmanpreet and Smriti have backed Powar to continue as coach till 2021. Powar's interim tenure ended on November 30 and the BCCI has already invited fresh applications for the job. Powar is free to re-apply.&nbsp;

"Yes, they have written a letter stating that they want Ramesh Powar to continue," Rai said.

Though Harmanpreet and Smriti are for Powar's extension, it is learnt that Ekta Bisht and Mansi Joshi are against his reinstatement along with ODI captain Mithali.&nbsp;

Powar's term ended a week after India lost the semifinals of the World T20 to England. The team management dropped Mithali for the knock-out fixture, triggering a huge controversy.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/darkest-day-of-my-life-says-mithali-raj-after-coach-says-she-created-chaos-in-side-180166">Mithali</a> went on to accuse Powar and COA member Diana Edulji of trying to destroy her and having a bias against her.&nbsp;

Powar, on his part, accused Mithali of threatening to retire midway into the World T20 after being denied the opening slot and creating chaos in the team.&nbsp;

On Monday, things became more dramatic with Harmanpreet throwing her weight behind the former spinner.&nbsp;

"I, as the T20 captain and ODI vice-captain is appealing before you to allow Powar to further continue as our team coach. There are hardly 15 months for the next T20 World Cup and a month to go for the New Zealand tour. The way he has transformed us as a team, I feel no reason to replace him," Harmanpreet wrote in the letter which is in PTI's possession.

In the letter, which is also addressed to BCCI office-bearers, Harmanpreet and Smriti said the team has improved significantly since Powar was appointed full-time coach in August.&nbsp;

"Our defeat in the semi-finals was very disheartening and it brings us all to feel more miserable to see how the controversies has stained our image and questioned the entire cricket fraternity," Harmanpreet said.

"Sir Ramesh Powar not only improved us as players but did motivate us to set targets and challenge our own limits. He has changed the face of Indian women's cricket team both technically and strategically. He has inculcated in us the sense of winning."

The star batswoman also reiterated that dropping Mithali was a decision of the team management.

"With regard to the exclusion of Mithali Raj, Sir Ramesh Powar was not single handedly responsible. The decision was entirely based on the cricketing logics and observations from the past.&nbsp;

"Keeping in mind the need of the hour where me, Smriti, the selector (Sudha Shah) and the coach together in the presence of our manager felt that we should go ahead with the winning combination.&nbsp;

"And I believe it should have come to your understanding that the intent was not personal but entirely based for the welfare of the team."

Harmanpreet added that a change of coach at this juncture will hamper the team's growth.

"Another change of coach will effect our growth and we will have to start from the scratch. And whatever may be the reason for Ramesh Sir's and Mithali Raj's conflicts, they should solve it across the table like a family and call it truce. This will provide more sense and security to them and the entire team."

Mandhana too endorsed Harmanpreet's view on the controversial matter, saying Powar has made them better cricketers.

"Since the introduction of Powar, he along with the support staff has boosted our confidence as a team which has helped us win 14 consecutive T20 matches. He changed the intent of the players and gave everyone confidence," the opener wrote.&nbsp;

The deadline for applying for the coach's job ends on December 14 and the BCCI is looking for a high-profile candidate to fill the vacancy.

The acrimonious end to coach Ramesh Powar's tenure Monday split the Indian women's cricket team with T20 captain Harmanpreet Kaur and her deputy Smriti Mandhana demanding his return despite senior player Mithali Raj's fallout with him.

The acrimonious end to coach Ramesh Powar's tenure Monday split the Indian women's cricket team with T20 captain Harmanpreet Kaur and her deputy Smriti Mandhana demanding his return despite senior player Mithali Raj's fallout with him. Committee of Administrators (COA) chairman Vinod Rai told PTI that Harmanpreet and Smriti have backed Powar to continue as coach till 2021. Powar's interim tenure ended on November 30 and the BCCI has already invited fresh applications for the job. Powar is free to re-apply. "Yes, they have written a letter stating that they want Ramesh Powar to continue," Rai said. Though Harmanpreet and Smriti are for Powar's extension, it is learnt that Ekta Bisht and Mansi Joshi are against his reinstatement along with ODI captain Mithali. Powar's term ended a week after India lost the semifinals of the World T20 to England. The team management dropped Mithali for the knock-out fixture, triggering a huge controversy. Mithali went on to accuse Powar and COA member Diana Edulji of trying to destroy her and having a bias against her. Powar, on his part, accused Mithali of threatening to retire midway into the World T20 after being denied the opening slot and creating chaos in the team. On Monday, things became more dramatic with Harmanpreet throwing her weight behind the former spinner. "I, as the T20 captain and ODI vice-captain is appealing before you to allow Powar to further continue as our team coach. There are hardly 15 months for the next T20 World Cup and a month to go for the New Zealand tour. The way he has transformed us as a team, I feel no reason to replace him," Harmanpreet wrote in the letter which is in PTI's possession. In the letter, which is also addressed to BCCI office-bearers, Harmanpreet and Smriti said the team has improved significantly since Powar was appointed full-time coach in August. "Our defeat in the semi-finals was very disheartening and it brings us all to feel more miserable to see how the controversies has stained our image and questioned the entire cricket fraternity," Harmanpreet said. "Sir Ramesh Powar not only improved us as players but did motivate us to set targets and challenge our own limits. He has changed the face of Indian women's cricket team both technically and strategically. He has inculcated in us the sense of winning." The star batswoman also reiterated that dropping Mithali was a decision of the team management. "With regard to the exclusion of Mithali Raj, Sir Ramesh Powar was not single handedly responsible. The decision was entirely based on the cricketing logics and observations from the past. "Keeping in mind the need of the hour where me, Smriti, the selector (Sudha Shah) and the coach together in the presence of our manager felt that we should go ahead with the winning combination. "And I believe it should have come to your understanding that the intent was not personal but entirely based for the welfare of the team." Harmanpreet added that a change of coach at this juncture will hamper the team's growth. "Another change of coach will effect our growth and we will have to start from the scratch. And whatever may be the reason for Ramesh Sir's and Mithali Raj's conflicts, they should solve it across the table like a family and call it truce. This will provide more sense and security to them and the entire team." Mandhana too endorsed Harmanpreet's view on the controversial matter, saying Powar has made them better cricketers. "Since the introduction of Powar, he along with the support staff has boosted our confidence as a team which has helped us win 14 consecutive T20 matches. He changed the intent of the players and gave everyone confidence," the opener wrote. The deadline for applying for the coach's job ends on December 14 and the BCCI is looking for a high-profile candidate to fill the vacancy.

Harmanpreet, Smriti back Powar; women's team split on coach

A 61-year-old Indian has been shot dead by a 16-year-old boy in the US state of New Jersey, media reports said Saturday.

Sunil Edla, who was to travel to India this month to visit his mother for her 95th birthday and celebrate Christmas with family, was killed outside his apartment in Ventnor city on Thursday night, The Press of Atlantic City reported.

Known for playing piano during church services at Chelsea Community Presbyterian Church in Atlantic City, he was a father of two and grandfather.

He was a 30-year resident of Atlantic County and worked in Atlantic City's hospitality industry.

An autopsy revealed that he died of multiple gunshot wounds, the report said.

The accused, whose name is being withheld due to his age, has been arrested from Egg Harbor City, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G Tyner said Friday.

He was charged with murder, felony murder, robbery, carjacking, unlawful possession of a handgun and possession of a handgun for unlawful purpose.

The motive behind the killing was not immediately known, police said.

Police believe the teen shot Edla and took his car. Atlantic City police found the vehicle later.

"He (Edla) was humble. He never argued. I helped him when he came to US in 1987. I was very close to him," his cousin Raj Casula was quoted as saying in the report.

On Thursday, Edla was leaving his home to work the overnight shift at the North Carolina Avenue Rodeway Inn in Atlantic City, his family said.

He started his car then went back to the house briefly. After walking back down the second-floor apartment stairs, he was shot on the sidewalk and left for dead, the report said.

Ventnor police Chief Doug Biagi said they have posted an officer in the neighbourhood "just to ease anybody's fears".

"Everyone was calling him and talking to him because he was leaving for India so soon. He had everything planned out for months... He was leaving on the 27th and he planned everything he was going to do in India for every day," Casula said.

His neighbour Fred Borsani said he did not hear the incident just two homes down, possibly due to the storm, the report added.

A 61-year-old Indian has been shot dead by a 16-year-old boy in the US state of New Jersey, media reports said Saturday. Sunil Edla, who was to travel to India this month to visit his mother for her 95th birthday and celebrate Christmas with family, was killed outside his apartment in Ventnor city on Thursday night, The Press of Atlantic City reported.

A 61-year-old Indian has been shot dead by a 16-year-old boy in the US state of New Jersey, media reports said Saturday. Sunil Edla, who was to travel to India this month to visit his mother for her 95th birthday and celebrate Christmas with family, was killed outside his apartment in Ventnor city on Thursday night, The Press of Atlantic City reported. Known for playing piano during church services at Chelsea Community Presbyterian Church in Atlantic City, he was a father of two and grandfather. He was a 30-year resident of Atlantic County and worked in Atlantic City's hospitality industry. An autopsy revealed that he died of multiple gunshot wounds, the report said. The accused, whose name is being withheld due to his age, has been arrested from Egg Harbor City, Atlantic County Prosecutor Damon G Tyner said Friday. He was charged with murder, felony murder, robbery, carjacking, unlawful possession of a handgun and possession of a handgun for unlawful purpose. The motive behind the killing was not immediately known, police said. Police believe the teen shot Edla and took his car. Atlantic City police found the vehicle later. "He (Edla) was humble. He never argued. I helped him when he came to US in 1987. I was very close to him," his cousin Raj Casula was quoted as saying in the report. On Thursday, Edla was leaving his home to work the overnight shift at the North Carolina Avenue Rodeway Inn in Atlantic City, his family said. He started his car then went back to the house briefly. After walking back down the second-floor apartment stairs, he was shot on the sidewalk and left for dead, the report said. Ventnor police Chief Doug Biagi said they have posted an officer in the neighbourhood "just to ease anybody's fears". "Everyone was calling him and talking to him because he was leaving for India so soon. He had everything planned out for months... He was leaving on the 27th and he planned everything he was going to do in India for every day," Casula said. His neighbour Fred Borsani said he did not hear the incident just two homes down, possibly due to the storm, the report added.

61-yr-old Indian gunned down by teenager in US

Indian women's cricket team defeated Pakistan by seven wickets while chasing a mere134-run target set by their Pakistan in a Group B match of ICC Women's World T20.

Played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana, Mithali Raj and Smriti Mandhana gave India a flying start, where Raj scored 56, her 16th T20I fifty, to propel India to another convincing win after beating New Zealand in the T20 opener by 34 runs.

India chased down the target with six balls to spare, reaching 137 for 3 in 19 overs.&nbsp;

Last game centurion and captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Veda Krishnamurthy remained not out on 14 and 8 respectively. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Opting to field after winning the toss, India made a great start with the ball, reducing Pakistan to 30 for 3 at a point.&nbsp;

Pakistan made a fine recovery, thanks to half-centuries from Bismah Maroof (53) and Nida Dar (52) as the duo stitched 93 runs for the fourth wicket to take their side to a competitive total.

However, a flurry of wickets in the final two overs ensured Pakistan finished on 133/7.&nbsp;

Indian women's cricket team defeated Pakistan by seven wickets while chasing a mere134-run target set by their Pakistan in a Group B match of ICC Women's World T20.

Indian women's cricket team defeated Pakistan by seven wickets while chasing a mere134-run target set by their Pakistan in a Group B match of ICC Women's World T20. Played at the Providence Stadium in Guyana, Mithali Raj and Smriti Mandhana gave India a flying start, where Raj scored 56, her 16th T20I fifty, to propel India to another convincing win after beating New Zealand in the T20 opener by 34 runs. India chased down the target with six balls to spare, reaching 137 for 3 in 19 overs. Last game centurion and captain Harmanpreet Kaur and Veda Krishnamurthy remained not out on 14 and 8 respectively. Opting to field after winning the toss, India made a great start with the ball, reducing Pakistan to 30 for 3 at a point. Pakistan made a fine recovery, thanks to half-centuries from Bismah Maroof (53) and Nida Dar (52) as the duo stitched 93 runs for the fourth wicket to take their side to a competitive total. However, a flurry of wickets in the final two overs ensured Pakistan finished on 133/7.

ICC Women's World T20: Mithali Raj guides India to seven-wicket win over Pakistan

The US on Thursday revoked duty-free concessions on import of at least <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-trumps-war-on-birthright-citizenship-impact-indians-174799">50 Indian products</a>, mostly from handloom and agriculture sectors, reflecting the Trump administration's tough stand on trade-related issues with New Delhi.

The federal register issued a notification, listing out 90 products which were so far subject to duty-free provisions under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-threatens-to-bring-executive-order-to-end-birthright-citizenship-174786">President Donald Trump</a> issued a presidential proclamation on Tuesday, leading to the removal of these products from the privilege beginning November 1.

As of November 1, these products "will no longer qualify for duty-free preferences under the GSP programme but may continue to be imported subject to regular Most Favored Nation duty-rates," an official of US Trade Representative said.

A review of the products indicates that the presidential proclamation is not country-specific, but product specific.

With India being the largest beneficiary of the GSP, it has been hit the most by the latest decision of the Trump administration.

The GSP, the largest and oldest US trade preference programme, is designed to promote economic development by allowing duty-free entry for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

A count of these products indicated that at least 50 of them are from India. Notably, India is the largest beneficiary of the GSP. In 2017, India's duty-free export to the US under the GSP was to the tune of more than USD 5.6 billion.

The volume of India's export to the US impacted by the latest move of the Trump administration is not known yet, but the list of products from which duty-free import provision has been removed reflects that a large number of small and medium-size business could be impacted, in particular, handloom and agricultural sector.

In his presidential proclamation, Trump said that certain 'de minimis' waivers will no longer be granted for any product, regardless of the country source, that exceeds the GSP's Competitive Need Limitation (CNL) thresholds. The CNL thresholds are quantitative ceilings on GSP benefits for each product and designated beneficiary country.

Trump said he had determined in 2017 certain beneficiary developing countries exported eligible articles in quantities exceeding the applicable competitive-need limitations.

"I hereby terminate the duty-free treatment for such articles from such beneficiary developing countries," he said.

Products from other countries like Argentina, Brazil, Thailand, Suriname, Pakistan, Turkey, the Philippines, Ecuador and Indonesia have also been removed from the GSP list.

Some of the prominent Indian products removed from the duty-free provisions of the GSP include dried pigeon pea seed; areca nuts, fresh or dried, in shell; turpentine gum; mangoes, prepared or preserved by vinegar or acetic acid; sandstone, merely cut into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape; tin chlorides; barium chlorides; salts and esters of tartaric acid, nesoi; and trimethyl phosphite.

Full-grain unsplit or grain split buffalo hide or skin; grain split whole buffalo leather, without hair on; whole buffalo skin leather (not full grain unsplits/grain splits); and full grain unsplit buffalo leather (not whole), have also been removed from the duty-free the GSP list.

Dyed, plain weave certified hand-loomed fabrics of cotton, containing 85 percent or more cotton by weight; plain weave certified hand-loomed fabrics of cotton, containing 85 per cent or more cotton by weight, hand-loomed carpet and other textile floor coverings, not of pile construction, woven, made up of man-made textile materials have also been removed.

Base metal clad with gold mixed link necklaces and neck chains and keyboard musical instruments, like harmoniums and similar keyboard instruments with free metal reeds, are among the other products.

These products can still be exported to the US from India but they will be subject to regular tariffs.

In April, the US announced the eligibility review of India for the GSP. According to the USTR, the total US imports under GSP in 2017 was USD 21.2 billion, of which India was the biggest beneficiary with USD 5.6 billion, followed by Thailand (USD 4.2 billion) and Brazil (USD 2.5 billion).

The programme has now been renewed through December 31, 2020.

FICCI in a submission to the USTR had said that the termination of the GSP would be contrary to the legislative objective and the history of the Trade Reform Act of 1974 of furthering the economic development of developing countries.

It would cause significant distress to the export-oriented sector leading to increased cost for US industries that use products under the GSP, it said.&nbsp;

The US on Thursday revoked duty-free concessions on import of at least 50 Indian products, mostly from handloom and agriculture sectors, reflecting the Trump administration's tough stand on trade-related issues with New Delhi.

The US on Thursday revoked duty-free concessions on import of at least 50 Indian products, mostly from handloom and agriculture sectors, reflecting the Trump administration's tough stand on trade-related issues with New Delhi. The federal register issued a notification, listing out 90 products which were so far subject to duty-free provisions under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). President Donald Trump issued a presidential proclamation on Tuesday, leading to the removal of these products from the privilege beginning November 1. As of November 1, these products "will no longer qualify for duty-free preferences under the GSP programme but may continue to be imported subject to regular Most Favored Nation duty-rates," an official of US Trade Representative said. A review of the products indicates that the presidential proclamation is not country-specific, but product specific. With India being the largest beneficiary of the GSP, it has been hit the most by the latest decision of the Trump administration. The GSP, the largest and oldest US trade preference programme, is designed to promote economic development by allowing duty-free entry for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. A count of these products indicated that at least 50 of them are from India. Notably, India is the largest beneficiary of the GSP. In 2017, India's duty-free export to the US under the GSP was to the tune of more than USD 5.6 billion. The volume of India's export to the US impacted by the latest move of the Trump administration is not known yet, but the list of products from which duty-free import provision has been removed reflects that a large number of small and medium-size business could be impacted, in particular, handloom and agricultural sector. In his presidential proclamation, Trump said that certain 'de minimis' waivers will no longer be granted for any product, regardless of the country source, that exceeds the GSP's Competitive Need Limitation (CNL) thresholds. The CNL thresholds are quantitative ceilings on GSP benefits for each product and designated beneficiary country. Trump said he had determined in 2017 certain beneficiary developing countries exported eligible articles in quantities exceeding the applicable competitive-need limitations. "I hereby terminate the duty-free treatment for such articles from such beneficiary developing countries," he said. Products from other countries like Argentina, Brazil, Thailand, Suriname, Pakistan, Turkey, the Philippines, Ecuador and Indonesia have also been removed from the GSP list. Some of the prominent Indian products removed from the duty-free provisions of the GSP include dried pigeon pea seed; areca nuts, fresh or dried, in shell; turpentine gum; mangoes, prepared or preserved by vinegar or acetic acid; sandstone, merely cut into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape; tin chlorides; barium chlorides; salts and esters of tartaric acid, nesoi; and trimethyl phosphite. Full-grain unsplit or grain split buffalo hide or skin; grain split whole buffalo leather, without hair on; whole buffalo skin leather (not full grain unsplits/grain splits); and full grain unsplit buffalo leather (not whole), have also been removed from the duty-free the GSP list. Dyed, plain weave certified hand-loomed fabrics of cotton, containing 85 percent or more cotton by weight; plain weave certified hand-loomed fabrics of cotton, containing 85 per cent or more cotton by weight, hand-loomed carpet and other textile floor coverings, not of pile construction, woven, made up of man-made textile materials have also been removed. Base metal clad with gold mixed link necklaces and neck chains and keyboard musical instruments, like harmoniums and similar keyboard instruments with free metal reeds, are among the other products. These products can still be exported to the US from India but they will be subject to regular tariffs. In April, the US announced the eligibility review of India for the GSP. According to the USTR, the total US imports under GSP in 2017 was USD 21.2 billion, of which India was the biggest beneficiary with USD 5.6 billion, followed by Thailand (USD 4.2 billion) and Brazil (USD 2.5 billion). The programme has now been renewed through December 31, 2020. FICCI in a submission to the USTR had said that the termination of the GSP would be contrary to the legislative objective and the history of the Trade Reform Act of 1974 of furthering the economic development of developing countries. It would cause significant distress to the export-oriented sector leading to increased cost for US industries that use products under the GSP, it said.

50 Indian items face heat as US revokes duty-free privileges on import of 90 products

An Indian national on Tuesday hit a jackpot to become the latest winner of the $ 1 million Dubai Duty Free raffle, a media report said.

Sourav Dey, the 45-year-old who has been living in Dubai since last six years, works as a department head for an insurance company, the Khaleej Times reported.

He bagged the jackpot with his first ever ticket to Dubai Duty Free, which he bought on his way to Kolkata for a vacation in September, the paper said.

"I'm so grateful to Dubai Duty Free for giving me this new fortune that my family will truly treasure this for a long time," he was quoted as saying by the paper.

Two other winners, including an Indian, drove away luxury vehicles. 
Babu Ajith Babu, a 44-year-old Indian national, drove home a BMW R 1200 RT motorbike, while 40-year-old Sri Lankan national Sajeewa Niranjan won a Range Rover HSE 380HP.

An Indian national on Tuesday hit a jackpot to become the latest winner of the $ 1 million Dubai Duty Free raffle, a media report said. Sourav Dey, the 45-year-old who has been living in Dubai since last six years, works as a department head for an insurance company, the Khaleej Times reported.

An Indian national on Tuesday hit a jackpot to become the latest winner of the $ 1 million Dubai Duty Free raffle, a media report said. Sourav Dey, the 45-year-old who has been living in Dubai since last six years, works as a department head for an insurance company, the Khaleej Times reported. He bagged the jackpot with his first ever ticket to Dubai Duty Free, which he bought on his way to Kolkata for a vacation in September, the paper said. "I'm so grateful to Dubai Duty Free for giving me this new fortune that my family will truly treasure this for a long time," he was quoted as saying by the paper. Two other winners, including an Indian, drove away luxury vehicles. Babu Ajith Babu, a 44-year-old Indian national, drove home a BMW R 1200 RT motorbike, while 40-year-old Sri Lankan national Sajeewa Niranjan won a Range Rover HSE 380HP.

Indian wins $1 million with his first ever Dubai Duty Free ticket

The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 86th anniversary on Monday, highlighting the "untiring efforts and supreme sacrifices" made by its personnel, the Defence Ministry said.

The celebrations was marked by a stellar show in the skies by various aircraft at the Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad.

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Indian Air Force Day celebrations underway at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad <a href="https://t.co/eQnMgcOrca">pic.twitter.com/eQnMgcOrca</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1049134861628391424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi extended their greetings on the occasion of the 86th Air Force Day.

"We proudly honour our air warriors, veterans, and families of the Indian Air Force. They safeguard our skies with courage and commitment. The resilience, tenacity and zeal of our valiant air warriors is a source of pride for every Indian," the President tweeted.

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On Air Force Day, we proudly honour our air warriors, veterans, and families of the Indian Air Force. They safeguard our skies with courage and commitment. The resilience, tenacity and zeal of our valiant air warriors is a source of pride for every Indian <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1049110016530296838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi said: "A grateful nation salutes our valorous air warriors and their families on Air Force Day. They keep our skies safe and are at the forefront of serving humanity in times of disasters. Proud of the Indian Air Force!" He also attached a video of IAF jets along with the tweet.

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A grateful nation salutes our valorous air warriors and their families on Air Force Day. They keep our skies safe and are at the forefront of serving humanity in times of disasters. Proud of the Indian Air Force! <a href="https://t.co/7zpdzotATS">pic.twitter.com/7zpdzotATS</a>
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In the last eight decades, IAF has technologically evolved and grown in strength to thwart any threat to the nation. It is committed to safeguarding the Indian skies and has played a key role in providing assistance to the people of the country during any natural calamity, an IAF spokesperson said.

The professionalism displayed by air-warriors during various international exercises reaffirms IAF’s ability to be an effective net security provider.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 86th anniversary on Monday, highlighting the "untiring efforts and supreme sacrifices" made by its personnel, the Defence Ministry said.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 86th anniversary on Monday, highlighting the "untiring efforts and supreme sacrifices" made by its personnel, the Defence Ministry said. The celebrations was marked by a stellar show in the skies by various aircraft at the Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad. Indian Air Force Day celebrations underway at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad pic.twitter.com/eQnMgcOrca — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 8, 2018 × President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi extended their greetings on the occasion of the 86th Air Force Day. "We proudly honour our air warriors, veterans, and families of the Indian Air Force. They safeguard our skies with courage and commitment. The resilience, tenacity and zeal of our valiant air warriors is a source of pride for every Indian," the President tweeted. On Air Force Day, we proudly honour our air warriors, veterans, and families of the Indian Air Force. They safeguard our skies with courage and commitment. The resilience, tenacity and zeal of our valiant air warriors is a source of pride for every Indian #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) October 8, 2018 × PM Modi said: "A grateful nation salutes our valorous air warriors and their families on Air Force Day. They keep our skies safe and are at the forefront of serving humanity in times of disasters. Proud of the Indian Air Force!" He also attached a video of IAF jets along with the tweet. A grateful nation salutes our valorous air warriors and their families on Air Force Day. They keep our skies safe and are at the forefront of serving humanity in times of disasters. Proud of the Indian Air Force! pic.twitter.com/7zpdzotATS — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 8, 2018 × In the last eight decades, IAF has technologically evolved and grown in strength to thwart any threat to the nation. It is committed to safeguarding the Indian skies and has played a key role in providing assistance to the people of the country during any natural calamity, an IAF spokesperson said. The professionalism displayed by air-warriors during various international exercises reaffirms IAF’s ability to be an effective net security provider.

Indian Air Force celebrates 86th anniversary with stellar show in the skies

The number of Indians arrested for illegally entering the United States has nearly tripled so far in 2018, making them one of the largest groups of illegal aliens apprehended, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said on Friday.

Paying smuggling rings between $25,000-$50,000 per person, a growing number of Indians are illegally crossing the US-Mexico border and claiming asylum for persecution, CBP spokesman Salvador Zamora said.

Many present viable claims, but a large number are economic migrants with fraudulent petitions that swamp the system and can cause legitimate cases to be "washed out" in the high volume of fraud, Zamora said in an interview.

The Indian embassy in Washington and the Indian consulate in San Francisco did not respond to requests for comment.

Zamora said the CBP expects that the data for the fiscal year that ends on Sept. 30 will show "around 9,000" Indian nationals had been apprehended versus 3,162 in fiscal year 2017.&nbsp;

Around 4,000 Indians who entered the United States illegally this year did so over a three-mile stretch of border fence at Mexicali, Zamora said.&nbsp;

"The word got out that Mexicali is a safe border city which favors their crossing into the United States," he said.

Cut and Paste Evidence

Asylum seekers range from lower caste "untouchable" Indians facing death threats for marrying outside their class to Sikhs claiming political persecution, immigration lawyers said.

Fraudulent asylum seekers often present "cut and paste" evidence identical to that of other migrants, Zamora said.

Some 42.2 per cent of Indian asylum cases were denied between fiscal years 2012 to 2017, according to Syracuse University`s Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse. That compares with denial rates of 79 per cent for El Salvadorans and 78 per cent for Hondurans.

After Mexicans, citizens of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador were most likely to enter the United States illegally in 2018, according to Border Patrol data. Indians still have some way to go to outnumber the roughly 30,000 El Salvadorans who entered the United States illegally in 2018, the data showed.

After being held in the United States, Indians are often bonded out of detention by human trafficking rings, Zamora said. They then enter indentured servitude in businesses ranging from hotels to convenience stores to pay off smuggling debts and bond fees, Zamora said.

The number of Indians arrested for illegally entering the United States has nearly tripled so far in 2018, making them one of the largest groups of illegal aliens apprehended, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said on Friday.

The number of Indians arrested for illegally entering the United States has nearly tripled so far in 2018, making them one of the largest groups of illegal aliens apprehended, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said on Friday. Paying smuggling rings between $25,000-$50,000 per person, a growing number of Indians are illegally crossing the US-Mexico border and claiming asylum for persecution, CBP spokesman Salvador Zamora said. Many present viable claims, but a large number are economic migrants with fraudulent petitions that swamp the system and can cause legitimate cases to be "washed out" in the high volume of fraud, Zamora said in an interview. The Indian embassy in Washington and the Indian consulate in San Francisco did not respond to requests for comment. Zamora said the CBP expects that the data for the fiscal year that ends on Sept. 30 will show "around 9,000" Indian nationals had been apprehended versus 3,162 in fiscal year 2017. Around 4,000 Indians who entered the United States illegally this year did so over a three-mile stretch of border fence at Mexicali, Zamora said. "The word got out that Mexicali is a safe border city which favors their crossing into the United States," he said. Cut and Paste Evidence Asylum seekers range from lower caste "untouchable" Indians facing death threats for marrying outside their class to Sikhs claiming political persecution, immigration lawyers said. Fraudulent asylum seekers often present "cut and paste" evidence identical to that of other migrants, Zamora said. Some 42.2 per cent of Indian asylum cases were denied between fiscal years 2012 to 2017, according to Syracuse University`s Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse. That compares with denial rates of 79 per cent for El Salvadorans and 78 per cent for Hondurans. After Mexicans, citizens of Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador were most likely to enter the United States illegally in 2018, according to Border Patrol data. Indians still have some way to go to outnumber the roughly 30,000 El Salvadorans who entered the United States illegally in 2018, the data showed. After being held in the United States, Indians are often bonded out of detention by human trafficking rings, Zamora said. They then enter indentured servitude in businesses ranging from hotels to convenience stores to pay off smuggling debts and bond fees, Zamora said.

Indians arrested for illegally entering US nearly triples

Renowned sports commentator Jasdev Singh passed away on Tuesday after battling a prolonged illness. He was 87.

Jasdev had covered nine editions of the Olympic Games from Helsinki (1968) to Melbourne (2000) and is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.

He also reported from six Asian Games and several hockey World Cups.&nbsp;

Condoling his demise, Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore tweeted: "It is with deep sadness that I note the demise of Jasdev Singh, one of our finest commentators.

"A veteran of Akashvani and DD National, he covered nine Olympics, six Asian Games and countless Independence Day and Republic Day broadcasts. His demise is truly the end of an era," he said.

Jasdev Singh also gave running commentary on the Republic Day parades for 48 long years from 1963.

Renowned sports commentator Jasdev Singh passed away on Tuesday after battling a prolonged illness. He was 87. Jasdev had covered nine editions of the Olympic Games from Helsinki (1968) to Melbourne (2000) and is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.

Renowned sports commentator Jasdev Singh passed away on Tuesday after battling a prolonged illness. He was 87. Jasdev had covered nine editions of the Olympic Games from Helsinki (1968) to Melbourne (2000) and is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter. He also reported from six Asian Games and several hockey World Cups. Condoling his demise, Sports Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore tweeted: "It is with deep sadness that I note the demise of Jasdev Singh, one of our finest commentators. "A veteran of Akashvani and DD National, he covered nine Olympics, six Asian Games and countless Independence Day and Republic Day broadcasts. His demise is truly the end of an era," he said. Jasdev Singh also gave running commentary on the Republic Day parades for 48 long years from 1963.

Renowned Sports commentator Jasdev Singh passes away 

The French government Friday said it was in no manner involved in the choice of Indian industrial partners for the Rafale fighter jet deal, asserting that French companies have the full freedom to select Indian firms for the contract.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-french-president-hollande-says-indian-government-proposed-anil-ambanis-reliance">statement by the French government</a> came following a French media report which quoted former French President Francois Hollande as saying that the Indian government proposed Reliance Defence as the partner for Dassault Aviation in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale deal and France did not have a choice.

“The French government is in no manner involved in the choice of Indian industrial partners who have been, are being, or will be selected by French companies,” it said.

The report in ‘Mediapart’, a French-language publication, quoted Hollande as saying, “It was the Indian government that proposed this service group, and Dassault which negotiated with Ambani. We had no choice, we took the interlocutor who was given to us.”

Asked who selected Reliance as a partner and why, Hollande replied, “We had no say in this regard.”

Dassault Aviation, the makers of Rafale, had chosen Reliance Defence as its partner to fulfil offset obligations of the deal. The government has been maintaining it did not have any role in the selection of the offset partner by Dassault.

In a statement, Dassault Aviation said it has decided to make a partnership with the Reliance Defence in accordance with the policy of ‘Make in India’.

“This partnership has led to the creation of the Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd (DRAL) joint-venture in February 2017. Dassault Aviation and Reliance have built a plant in Nagpur for manufacturing parts for Falcon and Rafale aircraft,” the company said.

The French government said, “In accordance with India’s acquisition procedure, French companies have the full freedom to choose the Indian partner companies that they consider to be the most relevant, then present for the Indian government’s approval the offsets projects that they wish to execute in India with these local partners so as to fulfil their obligations in this regard.”

The Congress has been accusing massive irregularities in the deal, alleging that the government was procuring each aircraft at a cost of over Rs 1,670 crore as against Rs 526 crore finalised by the UPA government when it was negotiating procurement of 126 Rafale jets.

The Congress has also alleged that the government was benefitting Reliance Defence through the deal as the company has set up a joint venture with Dassault Aviation to execute the offset obligation for the deal.

The opposition parties have also alleged that the Reliance Defence was formed just 12 days before the announcement of the Rafale deal by the prime minister on 10 April 2015. The Reliance group has rejected the charges.

The French government said the inter-governmental agreement it signed with India for supplying 36 Rafale aircraft concerns its obligations solely with regard to ensuring the delivery and quality of the aircraft.

“As it happens, agreements have already been signed by French companies with many Indian firms, both public and private, under the framework of Indian laws,” the statement said.

The Congress has also been demanding answers from the government on why <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-differences-between-hal-dassault-led-collapse-talks-say-report-166907">state-run aerospace major HAL</a> was not involved in the deal as finalised during the UPA.

Under India’s offset policy, foreign defence entities are mandated to spend at least 30 per cent of the total contract value in India through procurement of components or setting up of research and development facilities.

Ten days after India sealed the government-to-government agreement on the Rafale deal, Reliance Defence and Dassault had announced a joint venture (JV) in the aerospace sector and a year later, the foundation stone of a manufacturing facility was laid in Mihan, Nagpur.

The French government Friday said it was in no manner involved in the choice of Indian industrial partners for the Rafale fighter jet deal, asserting that French companies have the full freedom to select Indian firms for the contract.

The French government Friday said it was in no manner involved in the choice of Indian industrial partners for the Rafale fighter jet deal, asserting that French companies have the full freedom to select Indian firms for the contract. The statement by the French government came following a French media report which quoted former French President Francois Hollande as saying that the Indian government proposed Reliance Defence as the partner for Dassault Aviation in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale deal and France did not have a choice. “The French government is in no manner involved in the choice of Indian industrial partners who have been, are being, or will be selected by French companies,” it said. The report in ‘Mediapart’, a French-language publication, quoted Hollande as saying, “It was the Indian government that proposed this service group, and Dassault which negotiated with Ambani. We had no choice, we took the interlocutor who was given to us.” Asked who selected Reliance as a partner and why, Hollande replied, “We had no say in this regard.” Dassault Aviation, the makers of Rafale, had chosen Reliance Defence as its partner to fulfil offset obligations of the deal. The government has been maintaining it did not have any role in the selection of the offset partner by Dassault. In a statement, Dassault Aviation said it has decided to make a partnership with the Reliance Defence in accordance with the policy of ‘Make in India’. “This partnership has led to the creation of the Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd (DRAL) joint-venture in February 2017. Dassault Aviation and Reliance have built a plant in Nagpur for manufacturing parts for Falcon and Rafale aircraft,” the company said. The French government said, “In accordance with India’s acquisition procedure, French companies have the full freedom to choose the Indian partner companies that they consider to be the most relevant, then present for the Indian government’s approval the offsets projects that they wish to execute in India with these local partners so as to fulfil their obligations in this regard.” The Congress has been accusing massive irregularities in the deal, alleging that the government was procuring each aircraft at a cost of over Rs 1,670 crore as against Rs 526 crore finalised by the UPA government when it was negotiating procurement of 126 Rafale jets. The Congress has also alleged that the government was benefitting Reliance Defence through the deal as the company has set up a joint venture with Dassault Aviation to execute the offset obligation for the deal. The opposition parties have also alleged that the Reliance Defence was formed just 12 days before the announcement of the Rafale deal by the prime minister on 10 April 2015. The Reliance group has rejected the charges. The French government said the inter-governmental agreement it signed with India for supplying 36 Rafale aircraft concerns its obligations solely with regard to ensuring the delivery and quality of the aircraft. “As it happens, agreements have already been signed by French companies with many Indian firms, both public and private, under the framework of Indian laws,” the statement said. The Congress has also been demanding answers from the government on why state-run aerospace major HAL was not involved in the deal as finalised during the UPA. Under India’s offset policy, foreign defence entities are mandated to spend at least 30 per cent of the total contract value in India through procurement of components or setting up of research and development facilities. Ten days after India sealed the government-to-government agreement on the Rafale deal, Reliance Defence and Dassault had announced a joint venture (JV) in the aerospace sector and a year later, the foundation stone of a manufacturing facility was laid in Mihan, Nagpur.

After Hollande’s remarks, French govt says not involved in choosing Indian partners in Rafale deal

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday morning.&nbsp;

Kejriwal said in his letter that he was requesting the prime minister with "folded hands" to end the "strike" by Delhi's IAS officers.&nbsp;

Listing out the development projects stuck because of the strike, Kejriwal said "only you or the LG can end the strike". He added that "this is why people are saying the Centre and the LG are behind the strike".&nbsp;

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"Delhi facing unprecedented situation, Request you to get IAS officers to end strike"- CM <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a> to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiWithKejriwal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiWithKejriwal</a> <a href="https://t.co/RMzw9Cjmgt">pic.twitter.com/RMzw9Cjmgt</a>
— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/1007140402359463936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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मेरा भाई पुणे से मुझसे मिलने आया। उसको मुझसे मिलने नहीं दिया गया। ये तो ग़लत है।
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1007119053909946370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kejriwal and three of his cabinet colleagues have been sitting in protest outside Delhi LG Anil Baijal's office for four days now.&nbsp;

Two of them — Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain — are on an indefinite <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/aap-sit-in-at-lgs-waiting-room-enters-day-3-delhi-deputy-cm-begins-hunger-strike-144018?first_load=no">hunger strike</a>.&nbsp;

Delhi AAP government contends that the city-state's bureaucrats have been on "strike" — they have not been attending meetings with minister or taking phone calls — ever since the alleged attack on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash by AAP MLAs in February.&nbsp;

The attack allegedly took place in Kejriwal's home and in his presence.&nbsp;

Kejriwal and his colleagues had on Monday gone to meet the LG to ask him to help put an end the strike. They began their protest — in the LG's waiting room — when he refused to meet them.&nbsp;

The Aam Aadmi Party had on Wednesday marched on the LG's home.&nbsp;

They said today that they would march to Rajpath in protest and if need be, on the PM's home.&nbsp;

Kejriwal said in his letter that he was requesting the prime minister with 'folded hands' to end the 'strike' by Delhi's IAS officers

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday morning. Kejriwal said in his letter that he was requesting the prime minister with "folded hands" to end the "strike" by Delhi's IAS officers. Listing out the development projects stuck because of the strike, Kejriwal said "only you or the LG can end the strike". He added that "this is why people are saying the Centre and the LG are behind the strike". "Delhi facing unprecedented situation, Request you to get IAS officers to end strike"- CM @ArvindKejriwal to PM @narendramodi#DelhiWithKejriwal pic.twitter.com/RMzw9Cjmgt — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) June 14, 2018 × मेरा भाई पुणे से मुझसे मिलने आया। उसको मुझसे मिलने नहीं दिया गया। ये तो ग़लत है। — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) June 14, 2018 × Kejriwal and three of his cabinet colleagues have been sitting in protest outside Delhi LG Anil Baijal's office for four days now. Two of them — Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain — are on an indefinite hunger strike. Delhi AAP government contends that the city-state's bureaucrats have been on "strike" — they have not been attending meetings with minister or taking phone calls — ever since the alleged attack on Delhi Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash by AAP MLAs in February. The attack allegedly took place in Kejriwal's home and in his presence. Kejriwal and his colleagues had on Monday gone to meet the LG to ask him to help put an end the strike. They began their protest — in the LG's waiting room — when he refused to meet them. The Aam Aadmi Party had on Wednesday marched on the LG's home. They said today that they would march to Rajpath in protest and if need be, on the PM's home.

AAP-IAS officers' standoff: Delhi CM Kejriwal writes to PM Modi, asks for help

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has often asked what Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done in four years in power.&nbsp;

His question was answered today by BJP President Amit Shah, who said Modi is not answerable to Rahul Gandhi. Shah added that the people had given them the "right to be in power".&nbsp;

And that while Rahul asks Modi about the last four year, the "people are asking you (Rahul) about last four generations".&nbsp;

Shah added that the Narendra Modi government had "secured our borders" &nbsp;against a Pakistan which used to attack us "day and night".&nbsp;

And that "this government has placed India in a more respectful position before the world".&nbsp;

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Rahul Gandhi asks Modi ji what did he do in 4 yrs. I would like to tell him we aren't answerable to you. People gave us right to be in power. You're asking us about last 4 yrs,people are asking you about last 4 generations. Why was there no development?:Amit Shah in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/p47eG4OWt4">pic.twitter.com/p47eG4OWt4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005736648913678338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Narendra Modi govt secured our borders. Pak used to attack us day&night. But under this govt our forces went there, executed surgical strike&returned chanting 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. This govt has placed India in a more respectful position before the world: Amit Shah <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/GzbQaaLZmT">pic.twitter.com/GzbQaaLZmT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005739370324754432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Shah was speaking at a "Vikas Yatra" (Development Rally) in Surguja in Chhatisgarh, which is one of three states going to the polls this year. The other two states are Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.&nbsp;

All three states are currently ruled by the BJP. Political commentators however say the BJP also faces massive anti-incumbency in all three states.&nbsp;

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh also spoke at the rally, saying his government — he has been in power now for 15 years — was providing proper road and rail connectivity to Surguja and that it would soon also have air connectivity.&nbsp;

"Hawai chappal pehnne walon ka hawai jahaz se safar karne ka sapna poora hoga," he said

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We're providing proper road & rail connectivity to Sarguja. The region already has internet connectivity. Soon Sarguja will also have air connectivity. Hawai chappal pehnne walon ka hawai jahaz se safar karne ka sapna poora hoga: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> CM Raman Singh in Ambikapur, Surguja <a href="https://t.co/xv2NNNhHaY">pic.twitter.com/xv2NNNhHaY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005733463599734784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Congress is opposing Vikas Yatra. I would like to ask people of Surguja, did Congress ever provide you rice at Rs 1/kg? Did they ever provide you medical insurance? Did they ever do that in their 60 years of rule?: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> CM Raman Singh in Ambikapur, Surguja <a href="https://t.co/zpyW5uJrFT">pic.twitter.com/zpyW5uJrFT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005732030460465152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

'Rahul Gandhi asks Modiji what did he do in 4 years. I would like to tell him we aren't answerable to you. People gave us right to be in power. You're asking us about last 4 years, people are asking you about last 4 generations,' Shah said in Surguja in Chhattisgarh

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has often asked what Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done in four years in power. His question was answered today by BJP President Amit Shah, who said Modi is not answerable to Rahul Gandhi. Shah added that the people had given them the "right to be in power". And that while Rahul asks Modi about the last four year, the "people are asking you (Rahul) about last four generations". Shah added that the Narendra Modi government had "secured our borders" against a Pakistan which used to attack us "day and night". And that "this government has placed India in a more respectful position before the world". Rahul Gandhi asks Modi ji what did he do in 4 yrs. I would like to tell him we aren't answerable to you. People gave us right to be in power. You're asking us about last 4 yrs,people are asking you about last 4 generations. Why was there no development?:Amit Shah in #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/p47eG4OWt4 — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 × Narendra Modi govt secured our borders. Pak used to attack us day&night. But under this govt our forces went there, executed surgical strike&returned chanting 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'. This govt has placed India in a more respectful position before the world: Amit Shah #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/GzbQaaLZmT — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 × Shah was speaking at a "Vikas Yatra" (Development Rally) in Surguja in Chhatisgarh, which is one of three states going to the polls this year. The other two states are Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. All three states are currently ruled by the BJP. Political commentators however say the BJP also faces massive anti-incumbency in all three states. Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh also spoke at the rally, saying his government — he has been in power now for 15 years — was providing proper road and rail connectivity to Surguja and that it would soon also have air connectivity. "Hawai chappal pehnne walon ka hawai jahaz se safar karne ka sapna poora hoga," he said We're providing proper road & rail connectivity to Sarguja. The region already has internet connectivity. Soon Sarguja will also have air connectivity. Hawai chappal pehnne walon ka hawai jahaz se safar karne ka sapna poora hoga: #Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh in Ambikapur, Surguja pic.twitter.com/xv2NNNhHaY — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 × Congress is opposing Vikas Yatra. I would like to ask people of Surguja, did Congress ever provide you rice at Rs 1/kg? Did they ever provide you medical insurance? Did they ever do that in their 60 years of rule?: #Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh in Ambikapur, Surguja pic.twitter.com/zpyW5uJrFT — ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2018 ×

'We aren't answerable to' Rahul Gandhi: Amit Shah

The unilateral ceasefire during the holy month of Ramzan may have brought a halt to anti-militancy operations in Kashmir but security agencies have warned of a rise in recruitment of local youths into militant groups, that has crossed 80, and a rise in infiltration from various sides of the Line of Control (LoC).

The security agency officials said the highly-volatile Shopian and Pulwama districts in South Kashmir continued to contribute more youths to the militant groups which included outfits like ISIS-Kashmir and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, a group which claims support of the Al-Qaeda.

As many as 20 more youths have joined the militant groups in the month of May which included Rouf from Ganderbal, a fourth-semester student pursuing a diploma course in government polytechnic, the officials said.

An Unani doctor, the brother of IPS officer Inamulhaq Mengnoo, has also been reported missing from Shopian and it is apprehended that he too may have joined terror groups, they said, adding that the figure at the end of April this year was 45.

The officials said another 16 were missing mainly from the twin districts and a probe was on to ascertain whether they have joined any terror group.

The officials said infiltration was also picking up and some of the terrorists had managed to sneak in from Poonch and Rajouri district of Jammu region as well as from the LoC in the Kashmir Valley. This created a more alarming situation for the security forces which were readying themselves for the two-month long Amarnath Yatra beginning this month-end.

Year 2018, according to the officials, may end up as the worst year in terms of number of youths joining various militant groups as the figures indicated that 81 youths had joined until May this year. In 2017, a total of 126 youths had picked up guns. It was the highest number since 2010, according to a recent data presented in the state assembly and Parliament.

There has been a steady rise in the number of youth taking up arms in the Valley since 2014 onwards as compared to 2010-2013 when figures stood at 54, 23, 21 and 6 in the respective years. In 2014, the number shot up to 53 and in 2015, it reached 66 before touching the highest mark of 88 in 2016, the data showed.&nbsp

This year's recruitment of youth joining militancy includes Junaid Ashraf Sehrai, 26, an MBA degree holder from Kashmir University, and son of Mohammed Ashraf Sehrai, who took over as chairman of Tehrek-e-Hurriyat from Syed Ali Shah Geelani. Teherik-e-Hurriyat is a pro-Pakistan amalgam of separatists groups.

The list also includes a 26-year-old PhD scholar Mannan Bashir Wani hailing from Kupwara, officials said. Wani was studying in the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).

According to a report prepared by the Jammu and Kashmir CID, which has been shared with the Union Home Ministry, the past three years have witnessed a consistent rise in the number of active local militants even in the face of successful anti-militancy operations undertaken by the security forces.

"It therefore become imperative for the state to deconstruct why, while militants are being killed, militancy continues to rise," the report had said.

The report said the situation is such that terrorists encounters "have turned into a spectacle in the recent years with attacks on encounter sites by protesters followed by glamourised funerals."

"The entire phenomenon has had a tendency to create an emotionally charged environment which is ideal for recruiting fresh cadres," it said.

The report, while drawing a correlation between the militants killed in encounters and the new recruitment, said, "It has been found that encounters of local militants are part of a vicious circle that acts as a catalyst to push further recruitment."

"Large glorified funerals of militants have also been witnessing presence of active militants who give gun salutes to their killed associate.&nbsp

"The presence of militants in these funerals not only eulogises the deaths of militants but at the same time brings the active militants into open interaction with civilians," the report said, warning that such an interaction was one of the important steps in facilitating recruitment.&nbsp

Officials said 81 youths had joined militant groups until May this year. In 2017, a total of 126 youths had picked up the gun

The unilateral ceasefire during the holy month of Ramzan may have brought a halt to anti-militancy operations in Kashmir but security agencies have warned of a rise in recruitment of local youths into militant groups, that has crossed 80, and a rise in infiltration from various sides of the Line of Control (LoC). The security agency officials said the highly-volatile Shopian and Pulwama districts in South Kashmir continued to contribute more youths to the militant groups which included outfits like ISIS-Kashmir and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, a group which claims support of the Al-Qaeda. As many as 20 more youths have joined the militant groups in the month of May which included Rouf from Ganderbal, a fourth-semester student pursuing a diploma course in government polytechnic, the officials said. An Unani doctor, the brother of IPS officer Inamulhaq Mengnoo, has also been reported missing from Shopian and it is apprehended that he too may have joined terror groups, they said, adding that the figure at the end of April this year was 45. The officials said another 16 were missing mainly from the twin districts and a probe was on to ascertain whether they have joined any terror group. The officials said infiltration was also picking up and some of the terrorists had managed to sneak in from Poonch and Rajouri district of Jammu region as well as from the LoC in the Kashmir Valley. This created a more alarming situation for the security forces which were readying themselves for the two-month long Amarnath Yatra beginning this month-end. Year 2018, according to the officials, may end up as the worst year in terms of number of youths joining various militant groups as the figures indicated that 81 youths had joined until May this year. In 2017, a total of 126 youths had picked up guns. It was the highest number since 2010, according to a recent data presented in the state assembly and Parliament. There has been a steady rise in the number of youth taking up arms in the Valley since 2014 onwards as compared to 2010-2013 when figures stood at 54, 23, 21 and 6 in the respective years. In 2014, the number shot up to 53 and in 2015, it reached 66 before touching the highest mark of 88 in 2016, the data showed. This year's recruitment of youth joining militancy includes Junaid Ashraf Sehrai, 26, an MBA degree holder from Kashmir University, and son of Mohammed Ashraf Sehrai, who took over as chairman of Tehrek-e-Hurriyat from Syed Ali Shah Geelani. Teherik-e-Hurriyat is a pro-Pakistan amalgam of separatists groups. The list also includes a 26-year-old PhD scholar Mannan Bashir Wani hailing from Kupwara, officials said. Wani was studying in the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). According to a report prepared by the Jammu and Kashmir CID, which has been shared with the Union Home Ministry, the past three years have witnessed a consistent rise in the number of active local militants even in the face of successful anti-militancy operations undertaken by the security forces. "It therefore become imperative for the state to deconstruct why, while militants are being killed, militancy continues to rise," the report had said. The report said the situation is such that terrorists encounters "have turned into a spectacle in the recent years with attacks on encounter sites by protesters followed by glamourised funerals." "The entire phenomenon has had a tendency to create an emotionally charged environment which is ideal for recruiting fresh cadres," it said. The report, while drawing a correlation between the militants killed in encounters and the new recruitment, said, "It has been found that encounters of local militants are part of a vicious circle that acts as a catalyst to push further recruitment." "Large glorified funerals of militants have also been witnessing presence of active militants who give gun salutes to their killed associate. "The presence of militants in these funerals not only eulogises the deaths of militants but at the same time brings the active militants into open interaction with civilians," the report said, warning that such an interaction was one of the important steps in facilitating recruitment.

Recruitment of locals by militant groups has risen alarmingly in Kashmir: Security agencies

In a boxing match, a player sometimes fends off the opponent, sometimes defends, and then, at the apt moment, he attacks.

As momentum gathers for the 2019 general election, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seems to be playing the political game just as carefully, say leaders of his Aam Aadmi Party and political observers.

In 2017, following AAP's poor performance in Punjab and the BJP's sweep in Uttar Pradesh, Kejriwal consciously decided to minimise his attacks on his bete-noire, Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp

He continued with the strategy for a little more than a year. But with the BJP suffering a string of electoral defeats and anti-incumbency sentiment slowly setting in&nbspagainst the BJP government at the Centre, Kejriwal has renewed his attacks on Modi with the same level of acerbity as before.

"When Kejriwal changed strategy in 2017, post Uttar Pradesh poll results, the charisma of Modi was intact. You don't attack a leader who is popular because that will backfire. But when he is becoming unpopular, change the strategy,&nbspa senior AAP leader told PTI.

The rising fuel prices that has resulted in anger among the people, the recent defeats in the bypolls and the opposition banding together against the BJP have prompted the change, he said.

On May 31, the day of the bypoll results in which the BJP won one parliamentary seat and one assembly seat of 14 constituencies, Kejriwal posted a carefully timed tweet in praise of former prime minister Manmohan Singh, the target of his anti-graft campaign during the 2013 Delhi Assembly polls and the Lok Sabha polls the following year.

Taking a swipe at Modi, Kejriwal said people were missing an "educated prime minister" like Manmohan Singh.

"It's dawning on people now that the PM should be educated," Kejriwal tweeted, posting a Wall Street Journal article on the falling rupee.

This was a clear dig at Modi, reminiscent of his past attacks on the prime minister and reiterating doubts on the authenticity of his educational qualifications.

After the bypoll results became known, Kejriwal said the results were a reflection of people's anger against the prime minister.

The BJP had earlier lost Karnataka and the Gorakhpur and Phulpur parliamentary constituencies in Uttar Pradesh.

On May 31 itself, Kejriwal tweeted a video about people in Varanasi criticising the prime minister. He sought to link the CBI raid on state Health Minister Satyendar Jain's residence to steps the Delhi government is planning to take to reduce the charges by hospitals.

On the raid that took on place on May 30, he tweeted, "What does PM Modi want?"

A few days before that, on May 26, responding to a tweet on the performance of Delhi government schools, Kerjiwal said, "This is despite the obstacles created by the LG, the BJP and the PM. Congratulations to all students, principals and teachers."

On May 22, he attacked the prime minister's insurance scheme on the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). "PM's crop insurance scheme is a complete fraud on the farmers. Its sole objective is to benefit some insurance companies,"&nbspthe AAP chief said.

"Attacking a leader when he is popular will backfire. When the opposition is uniting against Modi, the bypoll results suggest that anti-incumbency is setting in, he is jumping on the bandwagon and mounting an attack,"&nbspsaid political analyst Sanjay Kumar.

AAP's Delhi unit spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said Kejriwal was a human being and was bound to hit back.

"How long will you push him against the wall? After all he is a human being, he is bound to hit back. They have not allowed the Delhi government to function,"&nbsphe said.

"We also tried to use the strategy of minimising our attacks and instead focus on work, but the incidents over past one year reflect that the strategy has not worked,"&nbspBharadwaj added.&nbsp

He was referring to the recent raids on Jain's residence by the CBI, the interrogation of the chief minister and his deputy Manish Sisodia in the case of an alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash by AAP MLAs, the removal of Delhi government advisors, including Atishi Marlena, and the arrest of Kejriwal's kin in an alleged irregularity in the PWD related work.&nbsp

Kejriwal kept mum in 2017 after AAP's poor performance in Punjab and the the BJP's sweep of Uttar Pradesh. But now, with Modi on the backfoot, the Delhi Chief Minister has renewed his attacks with the same level of acerbity as earlier

In a boxing match, a player sometimes fends off the opponent, sometimes defends, and then, at the apt moment, he attacks. As momentum gathers for the 2019 general election, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal seems to be playing the political game just as carefully, say leaders of his Aam Aadmi Party and political observers. In 2017, following AAP's poor performance in Punjab and the BJP's sweep in Uttar Pradesh, Kejriwal consciously decided to minimise his attacks on his bete-noire, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He continued with the strategy for a little more than a year. But with the BJP suffering a string of electoral defeats and anti-incumbency sentiment slowly setting in&nbspagainst the BJP government at the Centre, Kejriwal has renewed his attacks on Modi with the same level of acerbity as before. "When Kejriwal changed strategy in 2017, post Uttar Pradesh poll results, the charisma of Modi was intact. You don't attack a leader who is popular because that will backfire. But when he is becoming unpopular, change the strategy,&nbspa senior AAP leader told PTI. The rising fuel prices that has resulted in anger among the people, the recent defeats in the bypolls and the opposition banding together against the BJP have prompted the change, he said. On May 31, the day of the bypoll results in which the BJP won one parliamentary seat and one assembly seat of 14 constituencies, Kejriwal posted a carefully timed tweet in praise of former prime minister Manmohan Singh, the target of his anti-graft campaign during the 2013 Delhi Assembly polls and the Lok Sabha polls the following year. Taking a swipe at Modi, Kejriwal said people were missing an "educated prime minister" like Manmohan Singh. "It's dawning on people now that the PM should be educated," Kejriwal tweeted, posting a Wall Street Journal article on the falling rupee. This was a clear dig at Modi, reminiscent of his past attacks on the prime minister and reiterating doubts on the authenticity of his educational qualifications. After the bypoll results became known, Kejriwal said the results were a reflection of people's anger against the prime minister. The BJP had earlier lost Karnataka and the Gorakhpur and Phulpur parliamentary constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. On May 31 itself, Kejriwal tweeted a video about people in Varanasi criticising the prime minister. He sought to link the CBI raid on state Health Minister Satyendar Jain's residence to steps the Delhi government is planning to take to reduce the charges by hospitals. On the raid that took on place on May 30, he tweeted, "What does PM Modi want?" A few days before that, on May 26, responding to a tweet on the performance of Delhi government schools, Kerjiwal said, "This is despite the obstacles created by the LG, the BJP and the PM. Congratulations to all students, principals and teachers." On May 22, he attacked the prime minister's insurance scheme on the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). "PM's crop insurance scheme is a complete fraud on the farmers. Its sole objective is to benefit some insurance companies,"&nbspthe AAP chief said. "Attacking a leader when he is popular will backfire. When the opposition is uniting against Modi, the bypoll results suggest that anti-incumbency is setting in, he is jumping on the bandwagon and mounting an attack,"&nbspsaid political analyst Sanjay Kumar. AAP's Delhi unit spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj said Kejriwal was a human being and was bound to hit back. "How long will you push him against the wall? After all he is a human being, he is bound to hit back. They have not allowed the Delhi government to function,"&nbsphe said. "We also tried to use the strategy of minimising our attacks and instead focus on work, but the incidents over past one year reflect that the strategy has not worked,"&nbspBharadwaj added. He was referring to the recent raids on Jain's residence by the CBI, the interrogation of the chief minister and his deputy Manish Sisodia in the case of an alleged assault on Chief Secretary Anshu Prakash by AAP MLAs, the removal of Delhi government advisors, including Atishi Marlena, and the arrest of Kejriwal's kin in an alleged irregularity in the PWD related work.

After a year of keeping quiet, Kejriwal renews attacks on Modi 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is delivering the keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.&nbsp;

"Singapore shows that when nations stand behind principles, not one country or the other, they gain global respect," Modi said in Singapore.

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The Shangri-La Dialogue is a "track one" inter-governmental security forum held annually by an independent think tank, the International Institute for Strategic Studies. The forum is attended by defence ministers, ministry heads, and military chiefs of 28 Asia-Pacific states. The dialogue gets its name from the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore where it has been held since 2002.

'Singapore shows that when nations stand behind principles, not one country or the other, they gain global respect,' Modi said in Singapore

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is delivering the keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. "Singapore shows that when nations stand behind principles, not one country or the other, they gain global respect," Modi said in Singapore. The Shangri-La Dialogue is a "track one" inter-governmental security forum held annually by an independent think tank, the International Institute for Strategic Studies. The forum is attended by defence ministers, ministry heads, and military chiefs of 28 Asia-Pacific states. The dialogue gets its name from the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore where it has been held since 2002.

Watch live: PM Modi delivers keynote address at Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore

Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike. The farmers said they would not sell their produce in cities.&nbsp

In Punjab and Maharashtra, farmers were seen dumping vegetables, fruit, and milk on the streets.&nbsp

News reports said farmers in seven states &nbsp— Haryana, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala — had joined the strike

Shivkumar Sharma, convenor of the Rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Mahasangh, which is spearheading the strike in MP, however told PTI that farmers from 22 states had joined their protest.&nbsp

"The farmers' bodies have named the agitation as 'Gaon Bandh' (village blockade). The cultivators have been asked not to come to the markets in urban areas to sell their farm produce, including milk," PTI quoted Sharma as saying.&nbsp

Sharma added that on the last day of the protest — June 10 — the farmers' bodies will orgainse a "Bharat Bandh".&nbsp

The farmers are demanding a waiver of their loans, the right price&nbspfor their produce, and the implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission.&nbsp

The farmers' protest is expected to soon hit essential supplies in cities.&nbsp

The farmers are demanding a waiver of their loans, the right price for their produce, and the implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission

Farmers across the country said Friday that they had begun a 10-day nationwide strike. The farmers said they would not sell their produce in cities. In Punjab and Maharashtra, farmers were seen dumping vegetables, fruit, and milk on the streets. News reports said farmers in seven states — Haryana, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala — had joined the strike Shivkumar Sharma, convenor of the Rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Mahasangh, which is spearheading the strike in MP, however told PTI that farmers from 22 states had joined their protest. "The farmers' bodies have named the agitation as 'Gaon Bandh' (village blockade). The cultivators have been asked not to come to the markets in urban areas to sell their farm produce, including milk," PTI quoted Sharma as saying. Sharma added that on the last day of the protest — June 10 — the farmers' bodies will orgainse a "Bharat Bandh". The farmers are demanding a waiver of their loans, the right price&nbspfor their produce, and the implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission. The farmers' protest is expected to soon hit essential supplies in cities.

Farmers begin 10-day nationwide strike, say will not sell produce in cities

Pankaj Tripathi gained recognition through his role in 'Gangs of Wasseypur', 'Fukrey', 'Bareilly Ki Barfi', and of course, 'Newton', for which he also received a special mention at the National Film Awards.

Recently it had been declared that there would be a remake of several popular British television shows for Indian audiences. The top 2 shows up for the remake are The Office and Criminal Justice.

Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi has been selected for playing a character in 'Criminal justice'.

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After getting the role Pankaj Tripathi said, " I am very excited to be part of the 'Criminal Justice'&nbsp;remake in India. This is my second Digital series and it is amazing how much audiences are loving the digital space. My role and the details of the show are still being chalked out but looking at both the British and American version, I know there is going to be a bit of everything in this show. I am looking forward to working with Tigmanshu Dhulia, Jackie Shroff, and Vikrant Massey. Tigmanshu and I worked on 'Gangs of Wasseypur'&nbsp;as actors, this time he will direct me and it has been my wish to be directed by him for the longest time. Now my wish is coming true." 
&nbsp;

There would be a remake of several popular British television shows for the Indian audience

Pankaj Tripathi gained recognition through his role in 'Gangs of Wasseypur', 'Fukrey', 'Bareilly Ki Barfi', and of course, 'Newton', for which he also received a special mention at the National Film Awards. Recently it had been declared that there would be a remake of several popular British television shows for Indian audiences. The top 2 shows up for the remake are The Office and Criminal Justice. Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi has been selected for playing a character in 'Criminal justice'. After getting the role Pankaj Tripathi said, " I am very excited to be part of the 'Criminal Justice' remake in India. This is my second Digital series and it is amazing how much audiences are loving the digital space. My role and the details of the show are still being chalked out but looking at both the British and American version, I know there is going to be a bit of everything in this show. I am looking forward to working with Tigmanshu Dhulia, Jackie Shroff, and Vikrant Massey. Tigmanshu and I worked on 'Gangs of Wasseypur' as actors, this time he will direct me and it has been my wish to be directed by him for the longest time. Now my wish is coming true."

Indian remake of 'Criminal Justice' to star Pankaj Tripathi

Gobind Singh Deo, an Indian-origin Sikh politician in Malaysia, has become a cabinet minister, the first member of the minority community in the country's history to be appointed as a minister.&nbsp;

Deo, 45, who has been given the communications and multimedia portfolio, is among the two politicians of Indian descent included in the Pakatan Harapan coalition Cabinet.&nbsp;

The other Indian-origin lawmaker is M Kulasegaran from the Democratic Action Party, who has been made the human resource minister.

Deo represents Puchong constituency in the Malaysian Parliament and is the son of late Malaysian lawyer and politician Karpal Singh. He was sworn in during a ceremony at the National Palace yesterday after Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad included him in the new cabinet.

He was first elected as an MP in the 2008 general elections. Deo was re-elected to the lower house, with an increased margin, in 2013 and he again won this year's election with a margin of 47,635 votes.

The Punjabi community in the country has hailed the appointment of Deo as the minister.&nbsp;

"It is good to see Gobind Singh, a member of the Punjabi community in the cabinet. It is a proud and happy occasion for our community. Other than being a recognition of his abilities, it is also a recognition for the long established Punjabi community in Malaysia,? Miri Indian Association president, Councillor Karambir Singh was quoted as saying by the Borneo Post.&nbsp;

Malaysia has nearly 1,00,000 Sikh population.

Gobind Singh Deo has been made minister of communications and multimedia portfolio. He is one of two politicians of Indian descent in the cabinet

Gobind Singh Deo, an Indian-origin Sikh politician in Malaysia, has become a cabinet minister, the first member of the minority community in the country's history to be appointed as a minister. Deo, 45, who has been given the communications and multimedia portfolio, is among the two politicians of Indian descent included in the Pakatan Harapan coalition Cabinet. The other Indian-origin lawmaker is M Kulasegaran from the Democratic Action Party, who has been made the human resource minister. Deo represents Puchong constituency in the Malaysian Parliament and is the son of late Malaysian lawyer and politician Karpal Singh. He was sworn in during a ceremony at the National Palace yesterday after Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad included him in the new cabinet. He was first elected as an MP in the 2008 general elections. Deo was re-elected to the lower house, with an increased margin, in 2013 and he again won this year's election with a margin of 47,635 votes. The Punjabi community in the country has hailed the appointment of Deo as the minister. "It is good to see Gobind Singh, a member of the Punjabi community in the cabinet. It is a proud and happy occasion for our community. Other than being a recognition of his abilities, it is also a recognition for the long established Punjabi community in Malaysia,? Miri Indian Association president, Councillor Karambir Singh was quoted as saying by the Borneo Post. Malaysia has nearly 1,00,000 Sikh population.

Malaysia gets first Sikh minister

As fuel prices hit record highs, the government may be mulling a tax cut.&nbsp

Petrol was selling in Delhi on Sunday at <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-diesel-prices-hit-record-highs-in-delhi-138381">Rs 76.24 a litre</a>, the highest ever since September 14, 2013.&nbsp

On Monday, prices climbed even higher to Rs 76.57 a litre.&nbsp

This is the eighth straight day fuel prices have risen.&nbsp

Oil retailers had frozen prices on April 24 — after being nudged by the government to do so&nbsp&nbsp&nbsp— as Karnataka went to the polls.&nbsp

The freeze was lifted on May 14, two days after the elections.&nbsp

The retailers are now trying to catch up with global oil prices.&nbsp

On Sunday however, Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said in Bhubaneshwar that the Centre was "sensitive" about "rising fuel prices". That alternatives were being explored and that he hoped something would "work out soon".&nbsp

That, news reports said Monday, indicated the government may be thinking about a tax cut.&nbsp

Pradhan has so far&nbspruled out an excise cut, saying the price rise is temporary. He has blamed the price rise on OPEC's decision to cut production, US sanctions on Iran, and the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-maduro-wins-presidential-vote-138497">instability in Venezuela</a>.&nbsp

He has instead urged states to cut VAT and bring fuels under the GST regime.&nbsp

But the minister's statement on Sunday, the reports said, indicates a rethink by the government in order to avoid the public outcry getting any louder. 
&nbsp

Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Sunday that the Centre was 'sensitive' about 'rising fuel prices'. That alternatives were being explored and that he hoped something would 'work out soon'

As fuel prices hit record highs, the government may be mulling a tax cut. Petrol was selling in Delhi on Sunday at Rs 76.24 a litre, the highest ever since September 14, 2013. On Monday, prices climbed even higher to Rs 76.57 a litre. This is the eighth straight day fuel prices have risen. Oil retailers had frozen prices on April 24 — after being nudged by the government to do so — as Karnataka went to the polls. The freeze was lifted on May 14, two days after the elections. The retailers are now trying to catch up with global oil prices. On Sunday however, Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said in Bhubaneshwar that the Centre was "sensitive" about "rising fuel prices". That alternatives were being explored and that he hoped something would "work out soon". That, news reports said Monday, indicated the government may be thinking about a tax cut. Pradhan has so far&nbspruled out an excise cut, saying the price rise is temporary. He has blamed the price rise on OPEC's decision to cut production, US sanctions on Iran, and the instability in Venezuela. He has instead urged states to cut VAT and bring fuels under the GST regime. But the minister's statement on Sunday, the reports said, indicates a rethink by the government in order to avoid the public outcry getting any louder.

As fuel prices hit record highs, government may be mulling a tax cut

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Black Sea resort town of Sochi. This will be an informal summit, so expect no joint communique, guard of honour, joint statements or any other protocol.&nbsp;

Interestingly, this will be Modi's second informal summit in just one month, the first being with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan.

An MEA press release said: “This will be an important occasion for the two leaders to exchange views on international matters in a broad and long-term perspective with the objective of further strengthening our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both leaders will also discuss their respective national developmental priorities and bilateral matters.”

Speaking to news agency ANI, the Indian Ambassador to Russia said that the informal summit is a great opportunity for Modi and Putin to discuss different issues. Talks will begin May 21 at 3.30 PM IST in Sochi in delegation format followed by lunch hosted by Putin.&nbsp;

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We expect talks to begin at 1 o'clock local time in delegation format followed by lunch hosted by Pres just for PM. We expect them to be together for a few hrs. It's great opportunity for personal chemistry b/w them to discuss different ssues: Pankaj Saran, Indian Envoy to Russia <a href="https://t.co/GEscu6cXRY">pic.twitter.com/GEscu6cXRY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/998054906564096000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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FOCUS: IRAN DEAL

On the cards will be global and regional issues. From Iran, Afghanistan to Syria, everything will be on the table.

The informal summit comes just after the US withdrawing from the Iran deal, sparking global outrage. Speaking to agency ANI, Ambassador Saran confirmed that the impact of the US withdrawal will be discussed. “Iran is very important subject. There's been recent development with regard to nuclear agreement with Iran. I'm sure it'll come up for discussion between Russia and India because they have relations with Iran of different kinds and have big stakes in Iran,” said Saran.

But terror is likely to dominate the agenda. “ISIS threat, international terrorism, how we need to tackle it, will come up for discussion. Besides India being victim of terrorism from so many years, Russia also has been a victim and is concerned about spread of terrorism within its own country," said Saran.&nbsp;

INDIA, RUSSIA ANNUAL SUMMITS

India and Russia have annual summits. The last summit took place at St Petersberg 2017. During the summit, Modi also participated in the St Petersburg International Economic forum as guest of honour. Subsequently, Modi and Putin also met on the sidelines of the Astana SCO summit in June 2017 and the G20 summit in Hamburg in July 2017. In a few months, Putin himself will be travelling to India for the regular summit.

NUCLEAR POWER: AREA OF COOPERATION

India and Russia are important defence partners and Moscow has been helping in building nuclear power plants not only in India but in south Asia also. Russia is already participating in the construction of the Kudankulam nuclear plant and has committed to building six plants in Kudankulam. India has signed an agreement with Russia to construct more units in India. The agreement for Kudankulam's units 5 and 6 was concluded during the 18th Annual Bilateral Summit in St&nbsp;Petersburg in June. Besides this, an emerging area of cooperation in the nuclear sector is possible co-operation between India and Russia in third countries.

In Bangladesh, Moscow and New Delhi are pooling their expertise to build the Rooppur nuclear plant.

THE CAATSA QUESTION

India and Russia have been long-term defence allies. But the West vs Russia tussle now threatens to impact India. According to the US legislation CAATSA — Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act — any country trading with the Russian defence sector can be placed under sanctions. India will be impacted by this legislation. Indian government sources told WION that we “won't allow our defence requirements to be dictated by other countries. India has been lobbying with US administration. Russia has been reliable and trusted partner."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US Pacific commander Harry Harris has already pitched for India being put on an exception list.

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Harry Harris commander of the US Pacific Command say India shd be put under exception list of CAATSA law. CAATSA puts sanctions on countries that do trade with Russian defence sector. 
 
PS: India-US biz cud be impacted by sanctions on Russia. <a href="https://t.co/xixQvnXs8T">pic.twitter.com/xixQvnXs8T</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/974572495696150529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Interestingly, just ahead of his summit with the Indian PM, Putin met German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Sochi.

This will be Modi's second informal summit in less than a month. He recently met 'informally' with China's Xi Jinping

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Black Sea resort town of Sochi. This will be an informal summit, so expect no joint communique, guard of honour, joint statements or any other protocol. Interestingly, this will be Modi's second informal summit in just one month, the first being with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Wuhan. An MEA press release said: “This will be an important occasion for the two leaders to exchange views on international matters in a broad and long-term perspective with the objective of further strengthening our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both leaders will also discuss their respective national developmental priorities and bilateral matters.” Speaking to news agency ANI, the Indian Ambassador to Russia said that the informal summit is a great opportunity for Modi and Putin to discuss different issues. Talks will begin May 21 at 3.30 PM IST in Sochi in delegation format followed by lunch hosted by Putin. We expect talks to begin at 1 o'clock local time in delegation format followed by lunch hosted by Pres just for PM. We expect them to be together for a few hrs. It's great opportunity for personal chemistry b/w them to discuss different ssues: Pankaj Saran, Indian Envoy to Russia pic.twitter.com/GEscu6cXRY — ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2018 × FOCUS: IRAN DEAL On the cards will be global and regional issues. From Iran, Afghanistan to Syria, everything will be on the table. The informal summit comes just after the US withdrawing from the Iran deal, sparking global outrage. Speaking to agency ANI, Ambassador Saran confirmed that the impact of the US withdrawal will be discussed. “Iran is very important subject. There's been recent development with regard to nuclear agreement with Iran. I'm sure it'll come up for discussion between Russia and India because they have relations with Iran of different kinds and have big stakes in Iran,” said Saran. But terror is likely to dominate the agenda. “ISIS threat, international terrorism, how we need to tackle it, will come up for discussion. Besides India being victim of terrorism from so many years, Russia also has been a victim and is concerned about spread of terrorism within its own country," said Saran. INDIA, RUSSIA ANNUAL SUMMITS India and Russia have annual summits. The last summit took place at St Petersberg 2017. During the summit, Modi also participated in the St Petersburg International Economic forum as guest of honour. Subsequently, Modi and Putin also met on the sidelines of the Astana SCO summit in June 2017 and the G20 summit in Hamburg in July 2017. In a few months, Putin himself will be travelling to India for the regular summit. NUCLEAR POWER: AREA OF COOPERATION India and Russia are important defence partners and Moscow has been helping in building nuclear power plants not only in India but in south Asia also. Russia is already participating in the construction of the Kudankulam nuclear plant and has committed to building six plants in Kudankulam. India has signed an agreement with Russia to construct more units in India. The agreement for Kudankulam's units 5 and 6 was concluded during the 18th Annual Bilateral Summit in St Petersburg in June. Besides this, an emerging area of cooperation in the nuclear sector is possible co-operation between India and Russia in third countries. In Bangladesh, Moscow and New Delhi are pooling their expertise to build the Rooppur nuclear plant. THE CAATSA QUESTION India and Russia have been long-term defence allies. But the West vs Russia tussle now threatens to impact India. According to the US legislation CAATSA — Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act — any country trading with the Russian defence sector can be placed under sanctions. India will be impacted by this legislation. Indian government sources told WION that we “won't allow our defence requirements to be dictated by other countries. India has been lobbying with US administration. Russia has been reliable and trusted partner." Meanwhile, US Pacific commander Harry Harris has already pitched for India being put on an exception list. Harry Harris commander of the US Pacific Command say India shd be put under exception list of CAATSA law. CAATSA puts sanctions on countries that do trade with Russian defence sector. PS: India-US biz cud be impacted by sanctions on Russia. pic.twitter.com/xixQvnXs8T — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 16, 2018 × Interestingly, just ahead of his summit with the Indian PM, Putin met German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Sochi.

At Modi's informal summit with Putin in Russia, everything will be up for discussion

Pakistan`s military said it killed a senior member of an Islamist militant group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi(LeJ) and two would-be suicide bombers in a raid and later on Thursday five bombers who tried to mount a revenge suicide attack.

A senior military intelligence officer was killed and four other soldiers wounded during an operation targeting Salman Badeni, the Baluchistan regional chief of LeJ, on the outskirts of provincial capital Quetta late Wednesday, the army said.

The military said two would-be suicide bombers were also killed in the raid, but gave no details.

Hours later, five suicide bombers tried to drive a vehicle laden with ammunition and explosives into a military facility in the Quetta city on Thursday, the army said.&nbsp

Troops responded when one of the attackers detonated his explosive at the entrance, Khan Wasey, a local paramilitary spokesman said, and gunfire ensued.

All five attackers were killed, the army statement said, adding that the failed attempt was a response to the earlier military raid.

LeJ, a group which subscribes to the hardline Takfiri Deobandi school of Islam, considers Shi’ites apostates and has carried out scores of bomb and gun attacks in the southwestern province over the past two decades, most of them aimed at the Shi`ite Hazara community.

Badeni had been "involved in killings of over 100 innocent personnel of the Hazara community and police", the army said in its statement.

A&nbspLeJ spokesman, Ali bin Sufyian, said Badeni was not a member of the group. "He wasn`t our member," he said in a statement. He said the militant belonged to Islamic State.&nbsp

Islamic State, which operates from the lawless border regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan, has had worked in alliance with local militants such as the LeJ in several strikes in past.&nbsp

Islamic State did not immediately issue any statement claiming or disowning Badeni.&nbsp

Earlier this month members of the Hazara community went on a hunger strike in Quetta to protest against the spate of killings targeting them and to demand greater protection in the resource-rich province that has been plagued by violence and insurgency.

Over the past couple of years Islamic State militants have also targeted the Hazara community in Baluchistan.&nbsp

The Hazaras called off the protest after meeting with Pakistan`s powerful army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, who vowed greater protection and promised those targeting Hazaras "shall suffer twice as much".

Bajwa said on Thursday the army was determined to "sacrifice anything and everything" to defend the country. "When a soldier sacrifices his life I lose part flesh of my body," he said at the funeral of the senior officer who died in the raid.

Violence in Baluchistan is a worry for China, which has voiced concerns about security in the province that hosts a key route in the $57-billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a transport and energy link planned to run from western China to Pakistan`s southern deep-water port of Gwadar.

A senior military intelligence officer was killed and four other soldiers wounded during an operation targeting Salman Badeni, the Baluchistan regional chief of LeJ, on the outskirts of provincial capital Quetta late Wednesday, the army said

Pakistan`s military said it killed a senior member of an Islamist militant group Lashkar-e-Jhangvi(LeJ) and two would-be suicide bombers in a raid and later on Thursday five bombers who tried to mount a revenge suicide attack. A senior military intelligence officer was killed and four other soldiers wounded during an operation targeting Salman Badeni, the Baluchistan regional chief of LeJ, on the outskirts of provincial capital Quetta late Wednesday, the army said. The military said two would-be suicide bombers were also killed in the raid, but gave no details. Hours later, five suicide bombers tried to drive a vehicle laden with ammunition and explosives into a military facility in the Quetta city on Thursday, the army said. Troops responded when one of the attackers detonated his explosive at the entrance, Khan Wasey, a local paramilitary spokesman said, and gunfire ensued. All five attackers were killed, the army statement said, adding that the failed attempt was a response to the earlier military raid. LeJ, a group which subscribes to the hardline Takfiri Deobandi school of Islam, considers Shi’ites apostates and has carried out scores of bomb and gun attacks in the southwestern province over the past two decades, most of them aimed at the Shi`ite Hazara community. Badeni had been "involved in killings of over 100 innocent personnel of the Hazara community and police", the army said in its statement. A&nbspLeJ spokesman, Ali bin Sufyian, said Badeni was not a member of the group. "He wasn`t our member," he said in a statement. He said the militant belonged to Islamic State. Islamic State, which operates from the lawless border regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan, has had worked in alliance with local militants such as the LeJ in several strikes in past. Islamic State did not immediately issue any statement claiming or disowning Badeni. Earlier this month members of the Hazara community went on a hunger strike in Quetta to protest against the spate of killings targeting them and to demand greater protection in the resource-rich province that has been plagued by violence and insurgency. Over the past couple of years Islamic State militants have also targeted the Hazara community in Baluchistan. The Hazaras called off the protest after meeting with Pakistan`s powerful army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, who vowed greater protection and promised those targeting Hazaras "shall suffer twice as much". Bajwa said on Thursday the army was determined to "sacrifice anything and everything" to defend the country. "When a soldier sacrifices his life I lose part flesh of my body," he said at the funeral of the senior officer who died in the raid. Violence in Baluchistan is a worry for China, which has voiced concerns about security in the province that hosts a key route in the $57-billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a transport and energy link planned to run from western China to Pakistan`s southern deep-water port of Gwadar.

Pakistani army kills senior militant, seven suicide bombers

Several posters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi were taken down in Delhi Thursday night.&nbsp

The posters — showing Modi smiling and with his hands folded — were headlined "The Lie Lama".&nbsp

News reports said Friday the posters were taken down around 10.15 pm after a number of BJP leaders and members complained.&nbsp

The posters were found yesterday pasted on walls in &nbspMandir Marg's J-Block area, NDMC area, Central Delhi's Patel Nagar and Shanker Road areas.

The reports quoted police as saying there was no mention on the posters of where they might have been printed or by whom.&nbsp

The reports added that a case was registered against unidentified persons under the Delhi Prevention of Defacement of Property (DPDP) Act.

Police added that locals would be questioned to try and ascertain who put have put up the posters. The reports added that police were likely to scan any available CCTV footage.

A case was registered against unidentified persons under the Delhi Prevention of Defacement of Property (DPDP) Act

Several posters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi were taken down in Delhi Thursday night. The posters — showing Modi smiling and with his hands folded — were headlined "The Lie Lama". News reports said Friday the posters were taken down around 10.15 pm after a number of BJP leaders and members complained. The posters were found yesterday pasted on walls in &nbspMandir Marg's J-Block area, NDMC area, Central Delhi's Patel Nagar and Shanker Road areas. The reports quoted police as saying there was no mention on the posters of where they might have been printed or by whom. The reports added that a case was registered against unidentified persons under the Delhi Prevention of Defacement of Property (DPDP) Act. Police added that locals would be questioned to try and ascertain who put have put up the posters. The reports added that police were likely to scan any available CCTV footage.

Delhi: Posters calling PM Modi 'The Lie Lama' removed, case registered

The BSE Sensex rebounded by about 290 points today, while the Nifty retook the 10,800-mark on robust buying in metal, banking, capital goods and energy stocks.

A firm trend at other Asian markets and positive opening of European shares, tracking overnight gains at the Wall Street, also bolstered sentiments, brokers said.

The BSE Sensex stayed in the positive terrain throughout the session and hit a high of 35,596.15 before finishing at 35,535.79 -- a rise of 289.52 points, or 0.82 per cent.

The broader NSE Nifty scaled a high of 10,812.05 before closing 89.95 points, or 0.84 per cent, higher at 10,806.50.

On a weekly basis, the Sensex gained 620.41 points, or 1.78 per cent, while the Nifty advanced 188.25 points, or 1.77 per cent.

Meanwhile, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 900.69 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold equities worth Rs 364.88 crore yesterday, as per provisional data. PTI&nbsp

The rise was pushed by robust buying in metal, banking, capital goods and energy stocks

The BSE Sensex rebounded by about 290 points today, while the Nifty retook the 10,800-mark on robust buying in metal, banking, capital goods and energy stocks. A firm trend at other Asian markets and positive opening of European shares, tracking overnight gains at the Wall Street, also bolstered sentiments, brokers said. The BSE Sensex stayed in the positive terrain throughout the session and hit a high of 35,596.15 before finishing at 35,535.79 -- a rise of 289.52 points, or 0.82 per cent. The broader NSE Nifty scaled a high of 10,812.05 before closing 89.95 points, or 0.84 per cent, higher at 10,806.50. On a weekly basis, the Sensex gained 620.41 points, or 1.78 per cent, while the Nifty advanced 188.25 points, or 1.77 per cent. Meanwhile, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 900.69 crore, while foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) sold equities worth Rs 364.88 crore yesterday, as per provisional data. PTI

Sensex surges 290 pts, Nifty tops 10,800-mark

Rising for the third straight session, the BSE Sensex advanced by 103 points to end at 35,319.35 today as healthy buying in frontline stocks offset lacklustre global cues.

IT counters spurted after the rupee hit fresh 15-month lows against the US dollar.&nbsp

The 30-share barometer opened weak and hit a low of 35,134.20 on profit-booking in recent gainers amid sustained outflows by foreign funds.

However, it soon recovered to touch the day's high of 35,404.83, before finally ending at 35,319.35 -- up 103.03 points, or 0.29 per cent.

The index had risen 300.94 points in the past two sessions.

The 50-share NSE Nifty too moved in a wide range on hectic selling and buying and finally closed 23.90 points, or 0.22 per cent, higher at 10,741.70. Intra-day, it hovered between 10,689.85 and 10,766.25.

Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 923.25 crore while foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold shares to the tune of Rs 97.15 crore in yesterday's trade, provisional data showed.&nbsp

Crude oil climbed to the highest level since late 2014 at USD 77.07 a barrel after US President Donald Trump abandoned an international nuclear deal with Iran, likely curbing the OPEC member's crude exports in an already tight market.&nbsp

The Sensex ended at 35,319.35 as healthy buying in frontline stocks offset lacklustre global cues

Rising for the third straight session, the BSE Sensex advanced by 103 points to end at 35,319.35 today as healthy buying in frontline stocks offset lacklustre global cues. IT counters spurted after the rupee hit fresh 15-month lows against the US dollar. The 30-share barometer opened weak and hit a low of 35,134.20 on profit-booking in recent gainers amid sustained outflows by foreign funds. However, it soon recovered to touch the day's high of 35,404.83, before finally ending at 35,319.35 -- up 103.03 points, or 0.29 per cent. The index had risen 300.94 points in the past two sessions. The 50-share NSE Nifty too moved in a wide range on hectic selling and buying and finally closed 23.90 points, or 0.22 per cent, higher at 10,741.70. Intra-day, it hovered between 10,689.85 and 10,766.25. Meanwhile, on a net basis, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) bought shares worth Rs 923.25 crore while foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold shares to the tune of Rs 97.15 crore in yesterday's trade, provisional data showed. Crude oil climbed to the highest level since late 2014 at USD 77.07 a barrel after US President Donald Trump abandoned an international nuclear deal with Iran, likely curbing the OPEC member's crude exports in an already tight market.

Sensex ends higher for third day, up 103 points

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