The mentally-ill patients of the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur earned Rs 1 Lakh and 34 thousand by banana cultivation.

Under the skill development program, these patients were rehabilitated and based on their interest were put into the farming sector within the hospital premises.&nbsp;

Madhuri Thorat, Medical Superintendent, Regional Mental Hospital said, "Farming has a soothing effect on the minds of the mentally ill patients and so we are encouraging them to do farming. And this is also helping them earn a livelihood from this and proving the society wrong that they cannot do anything. Also, the patients enjoy doing these activities and this reduces the symptoms of depression in the patients.

"She further added that the hospital is also in the process of giving them reasonable pay from the revenue generated by the banana cultivation.

Pravin Kakde, Farming Project Head said, "The patients who come here are usually from the rural background and we give them the skill according to their interest. We also help these patients to develop their interest in farming activities or other activities."

"This has turned out to be very fruitful as sometimes the patients themselves have taught us about the best techniques and seasons to cultivate banana," he further added.

The mentally-ill patients of the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur earned Rs 1 Lakh and 34 thousand by banana cultivation. Under the skill development program, these patients were rehabilitated and based on their interest were put into the farming sector within the hospital premises.

The mentally-ill patients of the Regional Mental Hospital in Nagpur earned Rs 1 Lakh and 34 thousand by banana cultivation. Under the skill development program, these patients were rehabilitated and based on their interest were put into the farming sector within the hospital premises. Madhuri Thorat, Medical Superintendent, Regional Mental Hospital said, "Farming has a soothing effect on the minds of the mentally ill patients and so we are encouraging them to do farming. And this is also helping them earn a livelihood from this and proving the society wrong that they cannot do anything. Also, the patients enjoy doing these activities and this reduces the symptoms of depression in the patients. "She further added that the hospital is also in the process of giving them reasonable pay from the revenue generated by the banana cultivation. Pravin Kakde, Farming Project Head said, "The patients who come here are usually from the rural background and we give them the skill according to their interest. We also help these patients to develop their interest in farming activities or other activities." "This has turned out to be very fruitful as sometimes the patients themselves have taught us about the best techniques and seasons to cultivate banana," he further added.

Mentally-ill patients earn Rs 1 lakh through banana cultivation in Nagpur

BJP vice president and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday met Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to congratulate him for comfortably winning the Nagpur Lok Sabha seat by a margin of 2,16,009 votes, winning the Nagpur Lok Sabha seat by a margin of 2,16,009 votes.

Singh, the longest-serving chief minister of Chhattisgarh, also presented a beautiful flower bouquet to Gadkari.

Former BJP president Gadkari retained Nagpur seat by defeating Congress candidate Nana Patole.

Gadkari, who had won the Nagpur constituency in 2014, polled 6,60,221 votes.

At present, he is a minister of Road Transport and Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, and River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.

Narendra Modi-led NDA swept the elections and won 352 out of 542 seats in the 17th Lok Sabha elections.

As per official numbers, the BJP secured 303 seats, 22 more than its 2014 figures.

On Saturday, an NDA delegation led by BJP president Amit Shah had called on President Ram Nath Kovind and staked claim to form the government. Gadkari was also present in the meeting.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

BJP vice president and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday met Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to congratulate him for comfortably winning the Nagpur Lok Sabha seat by a margin of 2,16,009 votes, winning the Nagpur Lok Sabha seat by a margin of 2,16,009 votes.

BJP vice president and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh on Sunday met Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to congratulate him for comfortably winning the Nagpur Lok Sabha seat by a margin of 2,16,009 votes, winning the Nagpur Lok Sabha seat by a margin of 2,16,009 votes. Singh, the longest-serving chief minister of Chhattisgarh, also presented a beautiful flower bouquet to Gadkari. Former BJP president Gadkari retained Nagpur seat by defeating Congress candidate Nana Patole. Gadkari, who had won the Nagpur constituency in 2014, polled 6,60,221 votes. At present, he is a minister of Road Transport and Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, and River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Narendra Modi-led NDA swept the elections and won 352 out of 542 seats in the 17th Lok Sabha elections. As per official numbers, the BJP secured 303 seats, 22 more than its 2014 figures. On Saturday, an NDA delegation led by BJP president Amit Shah had called on President Ram Nath Kovind and staked claim to form the government. Gadkari was also present in the meeting.

Raman Singh meets Nitin Gadkari, extends wishes for retaining Nagpur Lok Sabha seat

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday.

The six districts in Vidarbha region have been experiencing very high temperatures over the last few days - the highest temperature was recorded in Akola which sizzled at 46.9 degrees Celsius. The MeT department says the temperature will hover around 46 and 47 degrees Celsius.

"There is likelihood of a very severe heat wave in some areas and heat wave in many parts of Vidarbha of eastern Maharashtra and Western Madhya Pradesh, besides heat wave conditions in other regions of central India," IMD Deputy Director-General M L Sahu said.

Apart from Akola, the mercury soared to 46.8 degrees Celsius in Nagpur and Amravati, 46.6 degrees in Chandrapur and 45 degrees in Wardha, Yavatmal and Washim.

The State Disaster Centre in Mumbai and Nagpur said there are no heat-wave related deaths so far in&nbsp; the region, though some people have been hospitalised in parts of Vidarbha.

With the red alert issued, all concerned agencies are in a state of full preparedness to tackle any emergencies arising among the people affected by the soaring temperatures.

People, especially children and senior citizens, have been advised to refrain from going outdoors between 11am-4pm, remain hydrated, avoid aerated drinks and immediately seek medical advice for any heat-related symptoms.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a red alert - the highest warning level - for Maharashtra's Vidarbha region and central India. The alert will remain in place till Wednesday. The six districts in Vidarbha region have been experiencing very high temperatures over the last few days - the highest temperature was recorded in Akola which sizzled at 46.9 degrees Celsius. The MeT department says the temperature will hover around 46 and 47 degrees Celsius. "There is likelihood of a very severe heat wave in some areas and heat wave in many parts of Vidarbha of eastern Maharashtra and Western Madhya Pradesh, besides heat wave conditions in other regions of central India," IMD Deputy Director-General M L Sahu said. Apart from Akola, the mercury soared to 46.8 degrees Celsius in Nagpur and Amravati, 46.6 degrees in Chandrapur and 45 degrees in Wardha, Yavatmal and Washim. The State Disaster Centre in Mumbai and Nagpur said there are no heat-wave related deaths so far in the region, though some people have been hospitalised in parts of Vidarbha. With the red alert issued, all concerned agencies are in a state of full preparedness to tackle any emergencies arising among the people affected by the soaring temperatures. People, especially children and senior citizens, have been advised to refrain from going outdoors between 11am-4pm, remain hydrated, avoid aerated drinks and immediately seek medical advice for any heat-related symptoms.

Heat wave: Red alert for central India, temperature to hover around 47°C

Voting for the first phase of Lok Sabha Election 2019 began at 7 am on Thursday, April 11.Ninety-one constituencies spread across 18 states and two union territories will vote in this initial phase. Watch video to know more.

World's largest democracy votes, Security tightened to prevent any untoward situation

Lok Sabha election 2019: RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat casts his vote in Nagpur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday flagged off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing.

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Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags-off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing. <a href="https://t.co/0n6ohgcok3">pic.twitter.com/0n6ohgcok3</a>
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During inaugurating speech, PM Modi said, ''Common mobility card will not only be useful for transport but you will also be able to do online payments through it. It will be both your express card and debit/credit card, now your RuPay card and mobility card are merging.''

Nagpur became the second city in Maharashtra after Mumbai to get a Metro rail.

Modi termed the Nagpur metro launch as ''historic occasion'' and also mentioned that metro rail projects were coming up in Pune and Thane as well.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday flagged off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags-off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday flagged off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags-off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing. pic.twitter.com/0n6ohgcok3 — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × During inaugurating speech, PM Modi said, ''Common mobility card will not only be useful for transport but you will also be able to do online payments through it. It will be both your express card and debit/credit card, now your RuPay card and mobility card are merging.'' Nagpur became the second city in Maharashtra after Mumbai to get a Metro rail. Modi termed the Nagpur metro launch as ''historic occasion'' and also mentioned that metro rail projects were coming up in Pune and Thane as well.

PM Modi inaugurates Nagpur metro rail via video conferencing

India beat Australia by eight runs in the second one-day international in Nagpur to go 2-0 up in the five-match series.&nbsp;

All-rounder Vijay Shankar picked two wickets in the final over to bowl out Australia for 242 after India made 250 off their 50 overs.&nbsp;

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What a game in Nagpur! 
 
India edge to victory by eight runs, with Australia bowled out for 242. Marcus Stoinis (52) threatened to take the game away from the home side, but some strong bowling at the death sees India go 2-0 up. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> SCORECARD ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/pNkv2db4Mg">https://t.co/pNkv2db4Mg</a> <a href="https://t.co/236W0cyXDK">pic.twitter.com/236W0cyXDK</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1102963629702463493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Australians needed 11 runs from the last over with two wickets in hand but Shankar, playing only his sixth ODI, kept his nerves to pick a wicket off his first and third balls in the day-night game in Nagpur.

Skipper Virat Kohli, who struck 116 in India's modest total of 250, asked Shankar to bowl the final over ahead of the regular Kuldeep Yadav, and he was rewarded amply for his move.

The Aussies were bowled out for 242 off 40.3 overs with Marcus Stoinis top-scoring with 52. &nbsp;

It was the 500th win in one-day internationals for India.

The visitors were off to a steady start with openers Aaron Finch (37) and Usman Khawaja (38) putting on 83 runs before being dismissed in successive overs.

Glenn Maxwell (18) saw his stumps being uprooted after a ball from Kuldeep Yadav sneaked from under his bat.

But it was the run-out of Peter Handscomb who looked set for a big score that hurt the visitors hard.

Handscomb, who made 48 off 59 balls, tried to take a risky single but Ravindra Jadeja made no mistake in hitting the stumps.

A double-strike by Jasprit Bumrah (2-29) turned the game around for the Indians who ensured there was no let-up in the pressure on the visitors.

Earlier Kohli smashed his 40th century on a challenging pitch that seemed to aid bowlers.

Kohli hit 10 fours in his 120-ball knock and held anchor after Australian captain &nbsp;Finch had elected to bat.

The Indians got off to a rocky start, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (21) early in the innings.

Sharma (0) top-edged off Adam Zampa and Dhawan (21) was given out leg before wicket after Australia's appeal was upheld on review.

India had no such luck as Ambati Rayudu's decision to appeal against the on-field umpire's lbw decision was turned down, the hosts reduced to a shaky 75-3.

Kohli, the world's top-ranked ODI batsman, went for the counter-attack, hitting two fours off the last two balls of the 18th over by Zampa to underline his top form.

The 30-year-old skipper timed his innings perfectly, stitching a 81-run partnership with Shankar, who impressed during his 41-ball 46 before being run out by Zampa.

Zampa struck again soon after, dismissing Kedar Jadhav (11) and Mahendra Singh Dhoni (0) off successive balls to stun the home crowd into silence.

But Kohli looked unfettered at the other end, reaching his 40th ODI century with a four over backward point.&nbsp;

The flamboyant captain removed his helmet and raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the crowd and the dressing room.

Kohli's innings ended when he holed a simple catch to Stoinis off Pat Cummins who picked up four late wickets.

India beat Australia by eight runs in the second one-day international in Nagpur to go 2-0 up in the five-match series. All-rounder Vijay Shankar picked two wickets in the final over to bowl out Australia for 242 after India made 250 off their 50 overs.

India beat Australia by eight runs in the second one-day international in Nagpur to go 2-0 up in the five-match series. All-rounder Vijay Shankar picked two wickets in the final over to bowl out Australia for 242 after India made 250 off their 50 overs. What a game in Nagpur! India edge to victory by eight runs, with Australia bowled out for 242. Marcus Stoinis (52) threatened to take the game away from the home side, but some strong bowling at the death sees India go 2-0 up. #INDvAUS SCORECARD ➡️ https://t.co/pNkv2db4Mg pic.twitter.com/236W0cyXDK — ICC (@ICC) March 5, 2019 × The Australians needed 11 runs from the last over with two wickets in hand but Shankar, playing only his sixth ODI, kept his nerves to pick a wicket off his first and third balls in the day-night game in Nagpur. Skipper Virat Kohli, who struck 116 in India's modest total of 250, asked Shankar to bowl the final over ahead of the regular Kuldeep Yadav, and he was rewarded amply for his move. The Aussies were bowled out for 242 off 40.3 overs with Marcus Stoinis top-scoring with 52. It was the 500th win in one-day internationals for India. The visitors were off to a steady start with openers Aaron Finch (37) and Usman Khawaja (38) putting on 83 runs before being dismissed in successive overs. Glenn Maxwell (18) saw his stumps being uprooted after a ball from Kuldeep Yadav sneaked from under his bat. But it was the run-out of Peter Handscomb who looked set for a big score that hurt the visitors hard. Handscomb, who made 48 off 59 balls, tried to take a risky single but Ravindra Jadeja made no mistake in hitting the stumps. A double-strike by Jasprit Bumrah (2-29) turned the game around for the Indians who ensured there was no let-up in the pressure on the visitors. Earlier Kohli smashed his 40th century on a challenging pitch that seemed to aid bowlers. Kohli hit 10 fours in his 120-ball knock and held anchor after Australian captain Finch had elected to bat. The Indians got off to a rocky start, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (21) early in the innings. Sharma (0) top-edged off Adam Zampa and Dhawan (21) was given out leg before wicket after Australia's appeal was upheld on review. India had no such luck as Ambati Rayudu's decision to appeal against the on-field umpire's lbw decision was turned down, the hosts reduced to a shaky 75-3. Kohli, the world's top-ranked ODI batsman, went for the counter-attack, hitting two fours off the last two balls of the 18th over by Zampa to underline his top form. The 30-year-old skipper timed his innings perfectly, stitching a 81-run partnership with Shankar, who impressed during his 41-ball 46 before being run out by Zampa. Zampa struck again soon after, dismissing Kedar Jadhav (11) and Mahendra Singh Dhoni (0) off successive balls to stun the home crowd into silence. But Kohli looked unfettered at the other end, reaching his 40th ODI century with a four over backward point. The flamboyant captain removed his helmet and raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the crowd and the dressing room. Kohli's innings ended when he holed a simple catch to Stoinis off Pat Cummins who picked up four late wickets.

Vijay Shankar shines with both bat & ball as India beat Australia in 2nd ODI

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit his career's 40th One-Day International century in the second match of a five-match series at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium.&nbsp;

"Men in Blue" were all out for 250 runs in 48.2 overs and the team scored 248 runs with Kohli on the pitch and just two runs without him.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli, who came at number three, smashed 10 fours in his 120-ball knock.&nbsp;

Virat is currently at number second position of all time in on the list of most ODI hundred behind India's Sachin Tendulkar. He is nine centuries away from Sachin's overall ODI centuries record of 49.&nbsp;

Against Australia, it's is Kohli's seventh ODI century. Rohit Sharma also has seven tons in his name against Australia while Sachin has scored nine.&nbsp;

After completing the century with a four over backward point, Kohli removed his helmet and raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the crowd and the dressing room. &nbsp;

Team India got off to a rocky start, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (21) early in the innings but Kohli looked unfettered at the other end.&nbsp;

Kohli's innings ended when he holed a simple catch to Marcus Stoinis off Pat Cummins who picked up four late wickets.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit his career's 40th One-Day International century in the second match of a five-match series at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hit his career's 40th One-Day International century in the second match of a five-match series at Nagpur's Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium. "Men in Blue" were all out for 250 runs in 48.2 overs and the team scored 248 runs with Kohli on the pitch and just two runs without him. Virat Kohli, who came at number three, smashed 10 fours in his 120-ball knock. Virat is currently at number second position of all time in on the list of most ODI hundred behind India's Sachin Tendulkar. He is nine centuries away from Sachin's overall ODI centuries record of 49. Against Australia, it's is Kohli's seventh ODI century. Rohit Sharma also has seven tons in his name against Australia while Sachin has scored nine. After completing the century with a four over backward point, Kohli removed his helmet and raised his bat to acknowledge the applause from the crowd and the dressing room. Team India got off to a rocky start, losing openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan (21) early in the innings but Kohli looked unfettered at the other end. Kohli's innings ended when he holed a simple catch to Marcus Stoinis off Pat Cummins who picked up four late wickets.

Virat Kohli hits ton in 2nd ODI against Australia

Pulwama attack: PM Modi vows to avenge death of CRPF soldiers

A suspected Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agent in Maharashtra's Nagpur has been arrested by Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror squad on Monday for allegedly spying and leaking technical information from BrahMos Aerospace missile unit.

The man has been identified as Nishant Agarwal who had been working with BrahMos unit since&nbsp;the last four years, reports said.

As per reports, he has been booked under the Official Secrets Act for allegedly leaking technical secrets to Pakistan.

Nishant is currently under investigation. The agencies are also trying to ascertain the details that he might have shared with the neighbouring country.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO) facility from where he was arrested makes propellents, or fuel, for the BrahMos missile.&nbsp;

BrahMos Aerospace, which has its base near Nagpur, is a joint venture between India and Russia.

A suspected Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agent in Maharashtra's Nagpur has been arrested by Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror squad on Monday for allegedly spying and leaking technical information from BrahMos Aerospace missile unit.

A suspected Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agent in Maharashtra's Nagpur has been arrested by Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror squad on Monday for allegedly spying and leaking technical information from BrahMos Aerospace missile unit. The man has been identified as Nishant Agarwal who had been working with BrahMos unit since the last four years, reports said. As per reports, he has been booked under the Official Secrets Act for allegedly leaking technical secrets to Pakistan. Nishant is currently under investigation. The agencies are also trying to ascertain the details that he might have shared with the neighbouring country. The Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO) facility from where he was arrested makes propellents, or fuel, for the BrahMos missile. BrahMos Aerospace, which has its base near Nagpur, is a joint venture between India and Russia.

Watch: Anti-terror squad nabs DRDO official working in BrahMos Aerospace unit on spying charge

The Congress party on Thursday repositioned itself after some of its senior leaders targeted Pranab Mukherjee for attending the RSS function in Nagpur.&nbsp;

After Pranab Mukherjee’s speech, Randeep Surjewala, chairman of the Congress media cell in a press conference said that they hope RSS accepts the sagacious advice of Pranab Mukherjee and change its process and path. 
&nbsp; 
Pranab Mukherjee has shown the mirror to RSS by reminding them of India’s pluralism, inclusiveness, secularism and tolerance, &nbsp;Surjewala said and added that former President reminded the Modi government of “Rajdharma’' founded on multiculturalism, non-violence, diversity and assimilation of ideas. 
&nbsp; 
He also said that Congress believes in democratic dialogue and recognize the sanctity of dialogue across different thought processes, different position from the one expressed by senior leaders like Ahmed Patel and Jairam Ramesh. He said that the moot point is that is RSS willing to change? 
&nbsp; 
Congress also used this as an opportunity to ask RSS whether they agree with Pranab Mukherjee’s idea of constitutional patriotism. BJP-RSS since coming to power have been advocating the idea of cultural nationalism which stands contrary to constitutional nationalism, he said.

The Congress also posed a number of questions on nationalism and pluralism and asked RSS whether they would commit to the idea of Pranab’s view of plural society and nationalism. Congress also emphasized the point that former President spoke about violence in the present public discourse and requested that it should be freed of both verbal and physical forms of violence. 
&nbsp; 
Many in the Congress believe that party leaders should not have jumped the gun and waited for Pranab Mukherjee’s speech. Nonetheless, by end of the day, Randeep Surjewalan repositioned the Congress Party to salvage the lost ground.

Pranab Mukherjee has shown the mirror to RSS by reminding them of India’s pluralism, inclusiveness, secularism and tolerance, Surjewala said

The Congress party on Thursday repositioned itself after some of its senior leaders targeted Pranab Mukherjee for attending the RSS function in Nagpur. After Pranab Mukherjee’s speech, Randeep Surjewala, chairman of the Congress media cell in a press conference said that they hope RSS accepts the sagacious advice of Pranab Mukherjee and change its process and path. Pranab Mukherjee has shown the mirror to RSS by reminding them of India’s pluralism, inclusiveness, secularism and tolerance, Surjewala said and added that former President reminded the Modi government of “Rajdharma’' founded on multiculturalism, non-violence, diversity and assimilation of ideas. He also said that Congress believes in democratic dialogue and recognize the sanctity of dialogue across different thought processes, different position from the one expressed by senior leaders like Ahmed Patel and Jairam Ramesh. He said that the moot point is that is RSS willing to change? Congress also used this as an opportunity to ask RSS whether they agree with Pranab Mukherjee’s idea of constitutional patriotism. BJP-RSS since coming to power have been advocating the idea of cultural nationalism which stands contrary to constitutional nationalism, he said. The Congress also posed a number of questions on nationalism and pluralism and asked RSS whether they would commit to the idea of Pranab’s view of plural society and nationalism. Congress also emphasized the point that former President spoke about violence in the present public discourse and requested that it should be freed of both verbal and physical forms of violence. Many in the Congress believe that party leaders should not have jumped the gun and waited for Pranab Mukherjee’s speech. Nonetheless, by end of the day, Randeep Surjewalan repositioned the Congress Party to salvage the lost ground.

Pranab’s speech aftermath: How Congress repositioned to salvage lost ground

In his much-anticipated RSS's Tritiya Varsh event speech in Nagpur, former president and veteran Congress leader Dr Pranab Mukherjee said intolerance around culture and religion will impact ''our national identity.''&nbsp;

''Our national identity has emerged after a long-drawn process of confluence and assimilation, the multiple cultures and faiths make us special and tolerant. We celebrate our diversity. This is the power behind collective consciousness,'' he said.&nbsp;

Quoting Rabindranath Tagore he said that races and ethnicities mingled like a river in the country and it is called ''Bharat''.&nbsp;

The former president also spoke about nationalism and said Indian nationalism is not about language and race and it's not ''exclusive but inclusive''.&nbsp;

Speaking about the coming together of Hindus and Muslims which is the ''character of Indian nationalism'', he said “Thanks to Sardar Patel, princely states merged with Indian states and a republic was born and it was a courageous step. Democracy became our guide,” he said.

“Democracy is not a gift but a sacred trust,” he said and added ''our constitution flows through our nationalism which respects shared diversity and has the ability to self-correct. As party activist and member of Parliament, I realised that spirit of India lies in tolerance and pluralism. Secularism and inclusion is a matter of faith while composite culture defines our nationhood. It is not about one language and one religion, “ he said.

122 languages and 1000 plus dialects are spoken in India, he said and added India does not have any common enemy. “Conversation is necessary with everyone,” he said.&nbsp;

Rage is tearing our social fabric, he said added&nbsp;“We must free our public discourse of physical and verbal violence. Harmony and peace must be pursued. Our motherland is asking for it,” he said.&nbsp;

Quoting Kautilya he said that in the happiness of the people lies the happiness of the King. Modern government is by the people of the people and for the people. &nbsp;

Pranab Mukherjee quoted Nehru and Patel and credited them for laying the foundation of modern India.

“Democracy is not a gift but a sacred trust,” he said

In his much-anticipated RSS's Tritiya Varsh event speech in Nagpur, former president and veteran Congress leader Dr Pranab Mukherjee said intolerance around culture and religion will impact ''our national identity.'' ''Our national identity has emerged after a long-drawn process of confluence and assimilation, the multiple cultures and faiths make us special and tolerant. We celebrate our diversity. This is the power behind collective consciousness,'' he said. Quoting Rabindranath Tagore he said that races and ethnicities mingled like a river in the country and it is called ''Bharat''. The former president also spoke about nationalism and said Indian nationalism is not about language and race and it's not ''exclusive but inclusive''. Speaking about the coming together of Hindus and Muslims which is the ''character of Indian nationalism'', he said “Thanks to Sardar Patel, princely states merged with Indian states and a republic was born and it was a courageous step. Democracy became our guide,” he said. “Democracy is not a gift but a sacred trust,” he said and added ''our constitution flows through our nationalism which respects shared diversity and has the ability to self-correct. As party activist and member of Parliament, I realised that spirit of India lies in tolerance and pluralism. Secularism and inclusion is a matter of faith while composite culture defines our nationhood. It is not about one language and one religion, “ he said. 122 languages and 1000 plus dialects are spoken in India, he said and added India does not have any common enemy. “Conversation is necessary with everyone,” he said. Rage is tearing our social fabric, he said added “We must free our public discourse of physical and verbal violence. Harmony and peace must be pursued. Our motherland is asking for it,” he said. Quoting Kautilya he said that in the happiness of the people lies the happiness of the King. Modern government is by the people of the people and for the people. Pranab Mukherjee quoted Nehru and Patel and credited them for laying the foundation of modern India.

Spirit of India lies in tolerance and pluralism: Pranab Mukherjee

A day before Pranab Mukherjee addresses an RSS event in Nagpur, the former president's daughter and Congress leader Sharmistha Mukherjee today disapproved of his decision, saying he was giving the BJP and the Sangh a handle to plant false stories, as his "speech will be forgotten" but the "visuals will remain".

Taking to Twitter, she hoped the former president would realise how the BJP's "dirty tricks department" works and said that with his visit, he was giving the BJP and RSS "full handle to plant false stories".

She also warned her father of the consequences of attending such a meet.

Her outburst came soon after rumours about her joining the BJP cropped up ahead of Mukherjee's visit to Nagpur tomorrow.

She dismissed such "rumours" of her joining the BJP as "false" and alleged they were the handiwork of BJP's "dirty tricks department".

She said she would rather leave politics than quit the Congress.

"Hope @CitiznMukherjee now realises from todays' incident, how BJP dirty tricks dept operates. Even RSS wouldn't believe that u r going 2 endorse its views in ur speech. But the speech will be forgotten, visuals will remain & those will be circulated with fake statements.

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Hope <a href="https://twitter.com/CitiznMukherjee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CitiznMukherjee</a> now realises from todays’ incident, how BJP dirty tricks dept operates. Even RSS wouldn’t believe that u r going 2 endorse its views in ur speech. But the speech will be forgotten, visuals will remain & those will be circulated with fake statements. 1/2
— Sharmistha Mukherjee (@Sharmistha_GK) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sharmistha_GK/status/1004380224098689026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"@CitiznMukherjee By going 2 Nagpur, u r giving BJP/RSS full handle 2 plant false stories, spread falls rumours as 2day & making it somewhat believable. And this is just d beginning!" she said on Twitter.

The former president's official Twitter handle is @CitiznMukherjee.&nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/CitiznMukherjee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CitiznMukherjee</a> By going 2 Nagpur, u r giving BJP/RSS full handle 2 plant false stories, spread falls rumours as 2day & making it somewhat believable. And this is just d beginning! 2/2
— Sharmistha Mukherjee (@Sharmistha_GK) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sharmistha_GK/status/1004380682712334336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mukherjee would be visiting the RSS headquarters tomorrow and would address a function there.

The visit has already given rise to a lot of speculation and a host of Congress leaders have urged the former president to review his decision for the sake of secularism.

Sharmistha Mukherjee, who is out of the city on a holiday, took to Twitter to swiftly deny the rumours, which appeared amid a row over her father accepting an invite to address the RSS event.

Rubbishing the rumours, she said on Twitter: "In the mountains enjoying a beautiful sunset, and suddenly this news that I'm supposedly joining BJP hits like a torpedo! Can't there be some peace and sanity in this world? I joined politics because I believe in Congress. Would rather leave politics than leave Congress," she tweeted.

Delhi Congress chief Ajay Maken also rejected such suggestions, saying Sharmistha Mukherjee is a "devoted" Congress person.

"In reply to certain rumors-Just spoke to @Sharmistha_GK , who is out of Delhi- She is a devoted Congress Person and firmly believes in the ideology of @INCIndia. She told me, that she is in politics, just because of her firm faith in the ideology of the Congress Party," he wrote on Twitter.

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In the mountains enjoying a beautiful sunset, & suddenly this news that I’m supposedly joining BJP hits like a torpedo! Can’t there be some peace & sanity in this world? I joined politics because I believe in <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a> Wud rather leave politics than leave Congress
— Sharmistha Mukherjee (@Sharmistha_GK) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sharmistha_GK/status/1004361699271442432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sharmistha Mukherjee, who is president of Mahila Congress as well as in-charge of the communication department of Delhi unit, had joined the party in 2014.

She had also contested Delhi Assembly elections from Greater Kailash seat in 2015 and lost to AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj.&nbsp;

'Even RSS wouldn't believe that u r going 2 endorse its views in ur speech. But the speech will be forgotten, visuals will remain & those will be circulated with fake statements,' Sharmishtha Mukherjee tweeted

A day before Pranab Mukherjee addresses an RSS event in Nagpur, the former president's daughter and Congress leader Sharmistha Mukherjee today disapproved of his decision, saying he was giving the BJP and the Sangh a handle to plant false stories, as his "speech will be forgotten" but the "visuals will remain". Taking to Twitter, she hoped the former president would realise how the BJP's "dirty tricks department" works and said that with his visit, he was giving the BJP and RSS "full handle to plant false stories". She also warned her father of the consequences of attending such a meet. Her outburst came soon after rumours about her joining the BJP cropped up ahead of Mukherjee's visit to Nagpur tomorrow. She dismissed such "rumours" of her joining the BJP as "false" and alleged they were the handiwork of BJP's "dirty tricks department". She said she would rather leave politics than quit the Congress. "Hope @CitiznMukherjee now realises from todays' incident, how BJP dirty tricks dept operates. Even RSS wouldn't believe that u r going 2 endorse its views in ur speech. But the speech will be forgotten, visuals will remain & those will be circulated with fake statements. Hope @CitiznMukherjee now realises from todays’ incident, how BJP dirty tricks dept operates. Even RSS wouldn’t believe that u r going 2 endorse its views in ur speech. But the speech will be forgotten, visuals will remain & those will be circulated with fake statements. 1/2 — Sharmistha Mukherjee (@Sharmistha_GK) June 6, 2018 × "@CitiznMukherjee By going 2 Nagpur, u r giving BJP/RSS full handle 2 plant false stories, spread falls rumours as 2day & making it somewhat believable. And this is just d beginning!" she said on Twitter. The former president's official Twitter handle is @CitiznMukherjee. .@CitiznMukherjee By going 2 Nagpur, u r giving BJP/RSS full handle 2 plant false stories, spread falls rumours as 2day & making it somewhat believable. And this is just d beginning! 2/2 — Sharmistha Mukherjee (@Sharmistha_GK) June 6, 2018 × Mukherjee would be visiting the RSS headquarters tomorrow and would address a function there. The visit has already given rise to a lot of speculation and a host of Congress leaders have urged the former president to review his decision for the sake of secularism. Sharmistha Mukherjee, who is out of the city on a holiday, took to Twitter to swiftly deny the rumours, which appeared amid a row over her father accepting an invite to address the RSS event. Rubbishing the rumours, she said on Twitter: "In the mountains enjoying a beautiful sunset, and suddenly this news that I'm supposedly joining BJP hits like a torpedo! Can't there be some peace and sanity in this world? I joined politics because I believe in Congress. Would rather leave politics than leave Congress," she tweeted. Delhi Congress chief Ajay Maken also rejected such suggestions, saying Sharmistha Mukherjee is a "devoted" Congress person. "In reply to certain rumors-Just spoke to @Sharmistha_GK , who is out of Delhi- She is a devoted Congress Person and firmly believes in the ideology of @INCIndia. She told me, that she is in politics, just because of her firm faith in the ideology of the Congress Party," he wrote on Twitter. In the mountains enjoying a beautiful sunset, & suddenly this news that I’m supposedly joining BJP hits like a torpedo! Can’t there be some peace & sanity in this world? I joined politics because I believe in @INCIndia Wud rather leave politics than leave Congress — Sharmistha Mukherjee (@Sharmistha_GK) June 6, 2018 × Sharmistha Mukherjee, who is president of Mahila Congress as well as in-charge of the communication department of Delhi unit, had joined the party in 2014. She had also contested Delhi Assembly elections from Greater Kailash seat in 2015 and lost to AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj.

Speech will be forgotten but visuals will remain: Pranab Mukherjee's daughter before his talk to RSS

Former President Pranab Mukherjee has responded to the criticism (and the many suggestions) he has got after accepting an invite to an RSS event.&nbsp;

Mukherjee has been invited to speak to swayamsevaks in Nagpur on June 7 at the concluding function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's Tritiya Varsha Varg or third-year course.&nbsp;

His acceptance of the invite (and what he might say there) has caused much consternation in the country.&nbsp;

At least three Congress leaders — Jairam Ramesh, Ramesh Chennithala and CK Jaffer Sharief — have urged Mukjherjee to turn down the invite.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While former finance minister P Chidambaram has urged Mukherjee to tell the RSS at the event what might be wrong with their ideology.&nbsp;

While Mukherjee was most recently president of India — a constitutional and not political post — he was for the overwhelming majority of his political life a Congressman.&nbsp;

The Congress is today the country's main opposition party while the BJP, the RSS's political wing, is in power at the Centre.&nbsp;

On Sunday, news reports quoted Mukherjee as saying: "Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur."&nbsp;

Mukherjee added that he had received several letters and phone calls since accepting the invite from the RSS but that he has not responded to any of them.&nbsp;

Former president Pranab Mukherjee has been invited to speak to swayamsevaks in Nagpur on June 7 at the concluding function of the RSS's Tritiya Varsha Varg or third-year course. His acceptance of the invite (and what he might say there) has caused much consternation in the country

Former President Pranab Mukherjee has responded to the criticism (and the many suggestions) he has got after accepting an invite to an RSS event. Mukherjee has been invited to speak to swayamsevaks in Nagpur on June 7 at the concluding function of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's Tritiya Varsha Varg or third-year course. His acceptance of the invite (and what he might say there) has caused much consternation in the country. At least three Congress leaders — Jairam Ramesh, Ramesh Chennithala and CK Jaffer Sharief — have urged Mukjherjee to turn down the invite. While former finance minister P Chidambaram has urged Mukherjee to tell the RSS at the event what might be wrong with their ideology. While Mukherjee was most recently president of India — a constitutional and not political post — he was for the overwhelming majority of his political life a Congressman. The Congress is today the country's main opposition party while the BJP, the RSS's political wing, is in power at the Centre. On Sunday, news reports quoted Mukherjee as saying: "Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur." Mukherjee added that he had received several letters and phone calls since accepting the invite from the RSS but that he has not responded to any of them.

Whatever I have to say, I will say in Nagpur: Pranab Mukherjee on accepting RSS invite

The Supreme Court is likely to pronounce its verdict on Thursday on a batch of pleas seeking an independent probe into the alleged mysterious death of special CBI judge BH Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case.

Loya had allegedly died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud had on March 16 reserved the judgment on the pleas.

The Maharashtra government had argued in the apex court that all pleas seeking an independent probe into Loya's death were motivated and aimed at targeting "one individual" in the guise of upholding the rule of law.

It had come down heavily on alleged accusations, bullying and browbeating of judges in the top court by some activist lawyers in the Loya case and said that the judiciary and judicial officers need to be saved from such averments.

Meanwhile, those seeking an independent probe into the matter had referred to the sequence of events to highlight that a fair investigation was needed to rule out any foul play in the death.

The issue of Loya's death had come under spotlight in November last year after media reports quoting his sister had fuelled suspicion about the circumstances surrounding it and its link to the Sohrabuddin case. But Loya's son had on January 14 said in Mumbai that his father had died of natural causes.&nbsp

In the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, BJP president Amit Shah along with Rajasthan home minister Gulabchand Kataria, Rajasthan-based businessman Vimal Patni, former Gujarat police chief P C Pande, additional director general of police Geeta Johri and Gujarat police officers Abhay Chudasama and N K Amin have already been discharged.

Several accused, including police personnel, are currently facing trial for their involvement in the alleged fake encounter of Sohrabuddin Shaikh, his wife Kausar Bi and their associate Tulsiram Prajapati in Gujarat in November 2005. The case was later transferred to CBI and the trial shifted to Mumbai.

A batch of pleas, including those filed by Congress leader Tehseen Poonawala and Maharashtra-based B S Lone, was filed in the top court seeking an independent probe into Loya's death in 2014.

Four senior-most apex court judges -- Justices J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph -- at their January 12 press conference had questioned the manner in which sensitive cases were being allocated and Loya's case was one of them.

Loya, who had been hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, had died in mysterious circumstances in December 2014

The Supreme Court is likely to pronounce its verdict on Thursday on a batch of pleas seeking an independent probe into the alleged mysterious death of special CBI judge BH Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case. Loya had allegedly died of cardiac arrest in Nagpur on December 1, 2014 when he had gone to attend the wedding of a colleague's daughter. A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud had on March 16 reserved the judgment on the pleas. The Maharashtra government had argued in the apex court that all pleas seeking an independent probe into Loya's death were motivated and aimed at targeting "one individual" in the guise of upholding the rule of law. It had come down heavily on alleged accusations, bullying and browbeating of judges in the top court by some activist lawyers in the Loya case and said that the judiciary and judicial officers need to be saved from such averments. Meanwhile, those seeking an independent probe into the matter had referred to the sequence of events to highlight that a fair investigation was needed to rule out any foul play in the death. The issue of Loya's death had come under spotlight in November last year after media reports quoting his sister had fuelled suspicion about the circumstances surrounding it and its link to the Sohrabuddin case. But Loya's son had on January 14 said in Mumbai that his father had died of natural causes. In the Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case, BJP president Amit Shah along with Rajasthan home minister Gulabchand Kataria, Rajasthan-based businessman Vimal Patni, former Gujarat police chief P C Pande, additional director general of police Geeta Johri and Gujarat police officers Abhay Chudasama and N K Amin have already been discharged. Several accused, including police personnel, are currently facing trial for their involvement in the alleged fake encounter of Sohrabuddin Shaikh, his wife Kausar Bi and their associate Tulsiram Prajapati in Gujarat in November 2005. The case was later transferred to CBI and the trial shifted to Mumbai. A batch of pleas, including those filed by Congress leader Tehseen Poonawala and Maharashtra-based B S Lone, was filed in the top court seeking an independent probe into Loya's death in 2014. Four senior-most apex court judges -- Justices J Chelameswar, Ranjan Gogoi, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph -- at their January 12 press conference had questioned the manner in which sensitive cases were being allocated and Loya's case was one of them.

Judge Loya death case: SC likely to decide today on independent probe

To mark the International Women&#39;s Day on Thursday, Indian railways deployed all women ticket checking staff on Mumbai Central-Ahmedabad Shatabdi Express.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a>: On the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalWomensDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalWomensDay</a>, Indian Railways deployed all women ticket checking staff on Mumbai Central- Ahmedabad Shatabdi Express. Visuals from Mumbai Central Railway Station. <a href="https://t.co/LlUK4CaovR">pic.twitter.com/LlUK4CaovR</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/971565346665779200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Deccan Queen Express trains that run between Mumbai and Pune will also have permanent&nbsp;all-women staff from Thursday.

For the past couple of weeks, Indians Railways have introduced all&nbsp;women staff stations.&nbsp;

The Stations that have already been handed over to all women includes Matunga Road station in Mumbai,&nbsp;Ajni railway station in Nagpur,&nbsp;Chandragiri near Tirupati and Gandhinagar in Jaipur has already been handed over to all women staff.

Job duties from station&nbsp;masters to guards and cleaners all are being handled by women.

According to reports, the initiative is taken after the directions of Central Railway General Manager to have at least one women-only station&nbsp;in each division.

Similarly, Air India is also observing the day by operating flights with an all-women crew to New York, Frankfurt, Singapore and various other destinations.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-to-operate-all-women-crew-flights-to-celebrate-international-womens-day-34944">Air India to operate all-women crew flights to celebrate International Women&#39;s Day</a>

Deccan Queen Express trains that run between Mumbai and Pune will also have permanent all-women staff from Thursday

To mark the International Women's Day on Thursday, Indian railways deployed all women ticket checking staff on Mumbai Central-Ahmedabad Shatabdi Express. #Mumbai: On the occasion of #InternationalWomensDay, Indian Railways deployed all women ticket checking staff on Mumbai Central- Ahmedabad Shatabdi Express. Visuals from Mumbai Central Railway Station. pic.twitter.com/LlUK4CaovR — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2018 × Deccan Queen Express trains that run between Mumbai and Pune will also have permanent all-women staff from Thursday. For the past couple of weeks, Indians Railways have introduced all women staff stations. The Stations that have already been handed over to all women includes Matunga Road station in Mumbai, Ajni railway station in Nagpur, Chandragiri near Tirupati and Gandhinagar in Jaipur has already been handed over to all women staff. Job duties from station masters to guards and cleaners all are being handled by women. According to reports, the initiative is taken after the directions of Central Railway General Manager to have at least one women-only station in each division. Similarly, Air India is also observing the day by operating flights with an all-women crew to New York, Frankfurt, Singapore and various other destinations. Also read: Air India to operate all-women crew flights to celebrate International Women's Day

International Women's Day: Indian Railways deploys all women ticket checking staff

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the BR Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi and said it would be an important place for research on social and economic issues.

The prime minister also unveiled two statues of the Dalit icon at the centre in Janpath.

Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot, Minister of State Ramdas Athawale and Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Vijay Goel were also present at the event.

&quot;The centre will prove to be an inspiration for the promotion of the thoughts and teachings of Dr Ambedkar. The centre will be an important place for research on social and economic issues,&quot; the prime minister said.

Modi added that the government had developed five places related to Babasaheb Ambedkar into pilgrimage spots.

He added that the five pilgrimage spots -- in Delhi, Mumbai, Nagpur, Mhow and London -- were like a homage from the present generation.

&quot;I think that this centre is for the youth... Where they can see and understand the vision of Babasaheb Ambedkar,&quot; the prime minister said.

The centre, he said, was a fusion of Buddhist and modern architecture.

He had laid the foundation stone of the centre in 2015.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the BR Ambedkar International Centre would be an important place for research on social and economic issues

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today inaugurated the BR Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi and said it would be an important place for research on social and economic issues. The prime minister also unveiled two statues of the Dalit icon at the centre in Janpath. Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thawar Chand Gehlot, Minister of State Ramdas Athawale and Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Vijay Goel were also present at the event. "The centre will prove to be an inspiration for the promotion of the thoughts and teachings of Dr Ambedkar. The centre will be an important place for research on social and economic issues," the prime minister said. Modi added that the government had developed five places related to Babasaheb Ambedkar into pilgrimage spots. He added that the five pilgrimage spots -- in Delhi, Mumbai, Nagpur, Mhow and London -- were like a homage from the present generation. "I think that this centre is for the youth... Where they can see and understand the vision of Babasaheb Ambedkar," the prime minister said. The centre, he said, was a fusion of Buddhist and modern architecture. He had laid the foundation stone of the centre in 2015.

Government has developed places related to Ambedkar into pilgrimage spots: PM Modi

Skipper Virat Kohli battered a lackadaisical Sri Lanka attack into submission with his fifth double hundred as India piled up a gigantic 610/6 before declaring their first innings on the third day, to literally outbat the island nation in the second Test.

At stumps, Sri Lanka were down in the dumps at 21 for one with another 384 runs required to avoid innings defeat.

The Indian captain scored a majestic 213 -- his 19th hundred, en route which he broke a plethora of records in company of Rohit Sharma (102 no), who got a Test ton after four long years.

Kohli&#39;s brute power combined with Rohit&#39;s lazy elegance made it a head cocktail of entertainment for the Sunday crowd, who were thrilled to bits whenever the Indian skipper reached a milestone.

The Sri Lankan bowlers never looked good enough to dismiss Kohli and it required a mistimed shot to see the back of the Indian captain, who got a standing ovation from the 12,000 plus present at the VCA Stadium.

The 267-ball knock comprised 17 boundaries and two sixes -- both of Sri Lanka&#39;s worst bowler Dilruwan Perera (3/202 in 45 overs).

It was a day when Kohli had the statisticians working overtime doing the number crunching as records fell like ninepins. It was his 12th hundred as Indian captain and he surpassed Sunil Gavaskar&#39;s previous record of 11 centuries.

The number of double centuries -- five is at par with Rahul Dravid and just one less than the legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag (6 each).

This was also his 10th international hundred in a calendar year (6 in ODIs and 4 in Tests). Earlier, it was Ricky Ponting (9 hundreds each in 2005 and 2006 respectively) and Graeme Smith (9 in 2005), who held the record for most number of international tons in a calendar year as captains.

Kohli now has five double hundreds against five different countries -- West Indies, New Zealand, England, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. He is only 25 runs short of completing 5000 runs in Test cricket.

It was an abject humiliation for the Sri Lanka attack as Kohli picked singles and doubles at will after field was completely spread. Out of 213 runs, Kohli ran 133 runs in ones, twos and threes primarily because of the spread out field to save the boundaries.

After enjoying a 183-run stand with Cheteshwar Pujara (143), Kohli had another fruitful stand of 173 for the fifth wicket with Rohit Sharma.

Rohit&#39;s third Test hundred came off 160 balls with eight boundaries and a six. However one can&#39;t take away the fact that India was more than 200 runs ahead by that time. But Rohit&#39;s innings will certainly give Kohli some relief with Ajinkya Rahane going through a wretched stretch of form.

Kohli started with a square drive and then hit cover drive and on drives.

Whenever Suranga Lakmal (0/111 in 29 overs) strayed on Kohli&#39;s pads, the skipper repeatedly whipped the deliveries through mid-wicket region.

It was a whip to deep midwicket for a single that brought Kohli&#39;s 19th hundred in Test cricket. There wasn&#39;t any exaggerated celebration this time unlike Kolkata, where he had bailed the team out of trouble.

Lakmal and Lahiru Gamage (1/97 in 35 overs) bowled with deep square leg, deep fine leg and deep extra cover making it clear that they did not want to concede boundaries. The easy singles were there for the taking.

Sri Lankan bowlers were unable to find an answer to their woes on a benign pitch that had forced one of their bowlers to &quot;alter the condition of the ball&quot;.

After India started the day at 312 for 2, the Sri Lankan bowlers lacked stomach for fight which was evident from the field placing of Dinesh Chandimal.

When Shanaka (1/103 in 26.1 overs) got wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella to stand up, it was evident that how deep the negative mindset had crept into the Sri Lankan system.

Rangana Herath (1/81 in 39 overs) was restrictive but didn&#39;t bowl any wicket-taking delivery.

In the first session itself, it looked like the visitors are going through the motion only waiting for Kohli to declare the innings.

As a contest, it became lopsided from the moment Sri Lanka were all out for 205.

By the time, India declared their first innings, the shoulders had drooped and energy sapped. No wonder Sadeera Samarwickrama (0) had no clue that Ishant Sharma&#39;s back of the length delivery would be jag back after landing on the seam to clip his off-bail. It proved that Sri Lanka were already out of the match.

The formalities in all likelihood would be completed well inside four days -- as it has been the case with most of the Sri Lanka Tests this season.

Skipper Virat Kohli battered a lackadaisical Sri Lanka attack into submission with his fifth double hundred as India piled up a gigantic 610/6 before declaring their first innings on the third day, to literally outbat the island nation in the second Test. At stumps, Sri Lanka were down in the dumps at 21 for one with another 384 runs required to avoid innings defeat. The Indian captain scored a majestic 213 -- his 19th hundred, en route which he broke a plethora of records in company of Rohit Sharma (102 no), who got a Test ton after four long years. Kohli's brute power combined with Rohit's lazy elegance made it a head cocktail of entertainment for the Sunday crowd, who were thrilled to bits whenever the Indian skipper reached a milestone. The Sri Lankan bowlers never looked good enough to dismiss Kohli and it required a mistimed shot to see the back of the Indian captain, who got a standing ovation from the 12,000 plus present at the VCA Stadium. The 267-ball knock comprised 17 boundaries and two sixes -- both of Sri Lanka's worst bowler Dilruwan Perera (3/202 in 45 overs). It was a day when Kohli had the statisticians working overtime doing the number crunching as records fell like ninepins. It was his 12th hundred as Indian captain and he surpassed Sunil Gavaskar's previous record of 11 centuries. The number of double centuries -- five is at par with Rahul Dravid and just one less than the legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag (6 each). This was also his 10th international hundred in a calendar year (6 in ODIs and 4 in Tests). Earlier, it was Ricky Ponting (9 hundreds each in 2005 and 2006 respectively) and Graeme Smith (9 in 2005), who held the record for most number of international tons in a calendar year as captains. Kohli now has five double hundreds against five different countries -- West Indies, New Zealand, England, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. He is only 25 runs short of completing 5000 runs in Test cricket. It was an abject humiliation for the Sri Lanka attack as Kohli picked singles and doubles at will after field was completely spread. Out of 213 runs, Kohli ran 133 runs in ones, twos and threes primarily because of the spread out field to save the boundaries. After enjoying a 183-run stand with Cheteshwar Pujara (143), Kohli had another fruitful stand of 173 for the fifth wicket with Rohit Sharma. Rohit's third Test hundred came off 160 balls with eight boundaries and a six. However one can't take away the fact that India was more than 200 runs ahead by that time. But Rohit's innings will certainly give Kohli some relief with Ajinkya Rahane going through a wretched stretch of form. Kohli started with a square drive and then hit cover drive and on drives. Whenever Suranga Lakmal (0/111 in 29 overs) strayed on Kohli's pads, the skipper repeatedly whipped the deliveries through mid-wicket region. It was a whip to deep midwicket for a single that brought Kohli's 19th hundred in Test cricket. There wasn't any exaggerated celebration this time unlike Kolkata, where he had bailed the team out of trouble. Lakmal and Lahiru Gamage (1/97 in 35 overs) bowled with deep square leg, deep fine leg and deep extra cover making it clear that they did not want to concede boundaries. The easy singles were there for the taking. Sri Lankan bowlers were unable to find an answer to their woes on a benign pitch that had forced one of their bowlers to "alter the condition of the ball". After India started the day at 312 for 2, the Sri Lankan bowlers lacked stomach for fight which was evident from the field placing of Dinesh Chandimal. When Shanaka (1/103 in 26.1 overs) got wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella to stand up, it was evident that how deep the negative mindset had crept into the Sri Lankan system. Rangana Herath (1/81 in 39 overs) was restrictive but didn't bowl any wicket-taking delivery. In the first session itself, it looked like the visitors are going through the motion only waiting for Kohli to declare the innings. As a contest, it became lopsided from the moment Sri Lanka were all out for 205. By the time, India declared their first innings, the shoulders had drooped and energy sapped. No wonder Sadeera Samarwickrama (0) had no clue that Ishant Sharma's back of the length delivery would be jag back after landing on the seam to clip his off-bail. It proved that Sri Lanka were already out of the match. The formalities in all likelihood would be completed well inside four days -- as it has been the case with most of the Sri Lanka Tests this season.

2nd Test, Day 3: Kohli scores double ton, India declare at 610/6

Virat Kohli hit a century as India reached 404-3 at lunch to lead Sri Lanka by 199 runs on day three of the second Test in Nagpur on Sunday.

Overnight batsmen Kohli, batting on 123, and Cheteshwar Pujara put on 183 to compound Sri Lanka&#39;s misery after the home side started the day on 312-2.

Pujara was finally bowled by paceman Dasun Shanaka for 143 a little before the break. Ajinkya Rahane had joined skipper Kohli at the crease.

Overnight batsmen Kohli, batting on 123, and Cheteshwar Pujara put on 183 to compound Sri Lanka's misery after the home side started the day on 312-2

Virat Kohli hit a century as India reached 404-3 at lunch to lead Sri Lanka by 199 runs on day three of the second Test in Nagpur on Sunday. Overnight batsmen Kohli, batting on 123, and Cheteshwar Pujara put on 183 to compound Sri Lanka's misery after the home side started the day on 312-2. Pujara was finally bowled by paceman Dasun Shanaka for 143 a little before the break. Ajinkya Rahane had joined skipper Kohli at the crease.

2nd Test, Day 3: India 404/3 at lunch, lead Lanka by 199 runs

Murali Vijay marked his return to the India side with an unbeaten half-century as the hosts marched steadily towards Sri Lanka&#39;s first innings total of 205 on the second day of the second test in Nagpur on Saturday.

India were 97 for one at lunch after denying Sri Lanka a wicket in the first session of play to remain 108 behind their opponents with nine wickets in hand and looking on course for a big fist innings total.

Vijay, who missed India&#39;s three-test series in Sri Lanka with injury and was left out of the drawn first match in Kolkata, was batting on 56 with Cheteshwar Pujara 33 not out at the other end.

Resuming the day on 11-1, both Indian batsmen were watchful during the first hour&#39;s play and waited for the bad balls for scoring opportunities.

Vijay square-drove the first ball of the morning and hit five more boundaries en route to his 16th half-century in tests.

Sri Lanka had a chance to dismiss him for 19 when the short-leg fielder floored a sharp chance off left-arm spinner Rangana Herath and, on another occasion, the tourists could not run out the opener who was well out of his crease.

Pujara was typically poised at the other end, mostly leaving the deliveries outside his off-stump and offering a dead bat in defence.

Dilruwan Perera got the right-hander to edge one on 25 but the ball fell well short of Angelo Mathews at slip.

It was after the introduction of Perera that India managed to improve their scoring rate as both Vijay and Pujara attacked the off-spinner who went for 26 off his four overs.

Murali Vijay marked his return to the India side with an unbeaten half-century as the hosts marched steadily towards Sri Lanka's first innings total of 205 on the second day of the second test in Nagpur on Saturday

Murali Vijay marked his return to the India side with an unbeaten half-century as the hosts marched steadily towards Sri Lanka's first innings total of 205 on the second day of the second test in Nagpur on Saturday. India were 97 for one at lunch after denying Sri Lanka a wicket in the first session of play to remain 108 behind their opponents with nine wickets in hand and looking on course for a big fist innings total. Vijay, who missed India's three-test series in Sri Lanka with injury and was left out of the drawn first match in Kolkata, was batting on 56 with Cheteshwar Pujara 33 not out at the other end. Resuming the day on 11-1, both Indian batsmen were watchful during the first hour's play and waited for the bad balls for scoring opportunities. Vijay square-drove the first ball of the morning and hit five more boundaries en route to his 16th half-century in tests. Sri Lanka had a chance to dismiss him for 19 when the short-leg fielder floored a sharp chance off left-arm spinner Rangana Herath and, on another occasion, the tourists could not run out the opener who was well out of his crease. Pujara was typically poised at the other end, mostly leaving the deliveries outside his off-stump and offering a dead bat in defence. Dilruwan Perera got the right-hander to edge one on 25 but the ball fell well short of Angelo Mathews at slip. It was after the introduction of Perera that India managed to improve their scoring rate as both Vijay and Pujara attacked the off-spinner who went for 26 off his four overs.

Vijay scores fifty as India dominate Sri Lanka before lunch

Indian captain Virat Kohli on Thursday complained that he and his teammates&nbsp;did not get adequate time to prepare for the South Africa series.&nbsp;

News agency ANI quoting the Indian skipper stated &#39;&#39;We get only two days before we fly to South Africa after this series, we have no choice but to be in the game situation. Had we got a month off, we would have done proper preparation, but right now we need to make do with what we have.&#39;&#39;

Kohli was addressing the pre-match press conference ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Nagpur tomorrow.

The Indian skipper further said that he was left with no choice but to seek bouncy tracks in the ongoing series as there was hardly any time in the schedule to prepare for the trip to South Africa.

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We get only 2 days before we fly to South Africa after this series, we have no choice but to be in game situation. Had we got a month off, we would have done proper preparation, but right now we need to make do with what we have: Virat Kohli in Nagpur <a href="https://t.co/8KJCi34mS6">pic.twitter.com/8KJCi34mS6</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933622745698406400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2017</a></blockquote>
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India would be leaving for South Africa for a series of three Tests, six ODIs and three Twenty20 Internationals, just a couple of days after the home series against Sri Lanka gets over on December 24.

&quot;...Unfortunately, we get only two days before we fly to South Africa after this series gets over. So we have no choice but try to be in a game situation and think of what&#39;s coming ahead of us.

&quot;Had we got a month off ideally, we would have done a proper preparation in a camp sort of scenario but we have to sort of make do with what we have,&quot; he added.

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We are crammed for time which we need to assess in future as well as everyone assesses the team when we go abroad but don&#39;t see how many days we get to prepare: Virat Kohli in Nagpur <a href="https://t.co/Rhmh8Sk0nJ">pic.twitter.com/Rhmh8Sk0nJ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933623315402432512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The Indian team will finish their limited overs engagement against Sri Lanka on December 24 (final T20) before they fly off to South Africa on December 27.

&#39;&#39;We are crammed for time which we need to assess in future as well as everyone assesses the team when we go abroad but don&#39;t see how many days we get to prepare,&#39;&#39; Kohli said.&nbsp;

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We must take Virat&#39;s concerns seriously and we will. Also would raise them at an appropriate forum: CK Khanna,BCCI Acting President <a href="https://t.co/njdB3Bdcyi">pic.twitter.com/njdB3Bdcyi</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933673512648065025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Taking note of Indian skipper&#39;s concern,&nbsp;CK Khanna, BCCI Acting President that they must take&nbsp;Virat&#39;s concerns very seriously and added that they would raise the issue at an appropriate forum. &nbsp;

The Indian skipper further said that he was left with no choice but to seek bouncy tracks in the ongoing series as there was hardly any time in the schedule to prepare for the trip to South Africa.

Indian captain Virat Kohli on Thursday complained that he and his teammates did not get adequate time to prepare for the South Africa series. News agency ANI quoting the Indian skipper stated ''We get only two days before we fly to South Africa after this series, we have no choice but to be in the game situation. Had we got a month off, we would have done proper preparation, but right now we need to make do with what we have.'' Kohli was addressing the pre-match press conference ahead of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Nagpur tomorrow. The Indian skipper further said that he was left with no choice but to seek bouncy tracks in the ongoing series as there was hardly any time in the schedule to prepare for the trip to South Africa. We get only 2 days before we fly to South Africa after this series, we have no choice but to be in game situation. Had we got a month off, we would have done proper preparation, but right now we need to make do with what we have: Virat Kohli in Nagpur pic.twitter.com/8KJCi34mS6 — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2017 × India would be leaving for South Africa for a series of three Tests, six ODIs and three Twenty20 Internationals, just a couple of days after the home series against Sri Lanka gets over on December 24. "...Unfortunately, we get only two days before we fly to South Africa after this series gets over. So we have no choice but try to be in a game situation and think of what's coming ahead of us. "Had we got a month off ideally, we would have done a proper preparation in a camp sort of scenario but we have to sort of make do with what we have," he added. We are crammed for time which we need to assess in future as well as everyone assesses the team when we go abroad but don't see how many days we get to prepare: Virat Kohli in Nagpur pic.twitter.com/Rhmh8Sk0nJ — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2017 × The Indian team will finish their limited overs engagement against Sri Lanka on December 24 (final T20) before they fly off to South Africa on December 27. ''We are crammed for time which we need to assess in future as well as everyone assesses the team when we go abroad but don't see how many days we get to prepare,'' Kohli said. We must take Virat's concerns seriously and we will. Also would raise them at an appropriate forum: CK Khanna,BCCI Acting President pic.twitter.com/njdB3Bdcyi — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2017 × Taking note of Indian skipper's concern, CK Khanna, BCCI Acting President that they must take Virat's concerns very seriously and added that they would raise the issue at an appropriate forum.

Virat Kohli complains of cramped schedule, BCCI takes note

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