<p>India's national capital Delhi woke up to the coldest morning of the season on Wednesday (Dec 11) as the minimum temperature&nbsp;dropped to 4.9 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>The Safdarjung observatory (base observatory), recorded a&nbsp;minimum of 4.9 degrees Celsius, while Palam saw the minimum settle at&nbsp;6.2 degrees Celsius, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Parts of the capital city were covered by a thin layer of fog and the morning chill persisted till 9 am local time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the IMD, smog and mist conditions along with surface winds which came at speeds of 8-10 kmph from the northwest led to the drop in temperature.</p>

<p>According to the IMD forecast, there will be mainly clear skies on December 11.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rain-lashes-delhi-ncr-imd-predicts-cold-wave-and-dense-fog-782516">India: Rain lashes Delhi-NCR; IMD predicts cold wave and dense fog</a></p>

<p>From the northwest, predominant surface winds will come at speeds under 8 kmph along with smog or mist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wind speeds can increase to 12 kmph in the afternoon before&nbsp;slowing down in the evening and night. Mist or smog is expected to persist during the evening and night.</p>

<p>A clear sky is predicted on December 12. In the northwest, the surface winds are expected to remain below 8 kmph in the morning along with mist or smog.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wind speeds can increase to 10-12 kmph later in the day and again go below 8 kmph in the evening and night.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi's air quality remains 'poor'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>At 7 am local time on Wednesday (Dec 11), the Air Quality Index (AQI)&nbsp;of Delhi remained at 209 and was categorised as 'poor,' as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: Delhi Set To Experience A Sharp Dip In Temp&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-delhi-set-to-experience-a-sharp-dip-in-temp-wion-climate-tracker-782628/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>A few areas of the capital also reported 'poor' air quality as Ashok Vihar stood at 227, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 218 and IGI Airport observed an AQI of 218.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The AQI levels in some areas remained 'moderate' like Aya Nagar at 148, Burari Crossing at 187, Chandni Chowk at 181, and DTU at 165, as per CPCB data.</p>

<p>The AQI of the city&nbsp;on Tuesday (Dec 10) was also in the 'poor' category at 224.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;India Meteorological Department has forecast&nbsp;drop in minimum temperatures by 2°C across northwest India in the next 24 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


India's national capital Delhi woke up to the coldest morning of the season on Wednesday (Dec 11) as the minimum temperature dropped to 4.9 degrees Celsius. The Safdarjung observatory (base observatory), recorded a minimum of 4.

India's national capital Delhi woke up to the coldest morning of the season on Wednesday (Dec 11) as the minimum temperature dropped to 4.9 degrees Celsius. The Safdarjung observatory (base observatory), recorded a minimum of 4.9 degrees Celsius, while Palam saw the minimum settle at 6.2 degrees Celsius, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD). Parts of the capital city were covered by a thin layer of fog and the morning chill persisted till 9 am local time. As per the IMD, smog and mist conditions along with surface winds which came at speeds of 8-10 kmph from the northwest led to the drop in temperature. According to the IMD forecast, there will be mainly clear skies on December 11. Also Read: India: Rain lashes Delhi-NCR; IMD predicts cold wave and dense fog From the northwest, predominant surface winds will come at speeds under 8 kmph along with smog or mist. Wind speeds can increase to 12 kmph in the afternoon before slowing down in the evening and night. Mist or smog is expected to persist during the evening and night. A clear sky is predicted on December 12. In the northwest, the surface winds are expected to remain below 8 kmph in the morning along with mist or smog. Wind speeds can increase to 10-12 kmph later in the day and again go below 8 kmph in the evening and night. Delhi's air quality remains 'poor' At 7 am local time on Wednesday (Dec 11), the Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi remained at 209 and was categorised as 'poor,' as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Watch: India: Delhi Set To Experience A Sharp Dip In Temp A few areas of the capital also reported 'poor' air quality as Ashok Vihar stood at 227, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 218 and IGI Airport observed an AQI of 218. The AQI levels in some areas remained 'moderate' like Aya Nagar at 148, Burari Crossing at 187, Chandni Chowk at 181, and DTU at 165, as per CPCB data. The AQI of the city on Tuesday (Dec 10) was also in the 'poor' category at 224. The India Meteorological Department has forecast drop in minimum temperatures by 2°C across northwest India in the next 24 hours. (With inputs from agencies)

India's national capital wakes up to coldest morning of season, temperature drops to 4.9 degrees

<p>More than 40&nbsp;schools in India's national capital Delhi received bomb threats through e-mails on Monday morning (Dec 9). The&nbsp;schools which received the bomb threat included Delhi Public School located in RK Puram and GD Goenka School&nbsp;in Paschim Vihar in the early morning hours, as per news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Delhi Police, the email read,&nbsp;"I planted multiple bombs inside (school) buildings. The bombs are small and hidden very well. It will not cause much damage to the building, but many people will be injured when the bombs detonate. If I do not receive $30,000 I will detonate the bombs."</p>

<p>The email was sent to school authorities on Sunday night (Dec 8) at 11:38 pm local time.</p>

<p>The IP address of the sender is being investigated by the police.</p>

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<p>The students were sent back to their homes by the school administration and police were informed about the incident, confirmed Delhi Police.</p>

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<p>The threats were revealed at peak hour in schools when buses were arriving, children were being dropped off by their parents and staff busy preparing for the morning assembly.</p>

<p>The schools informed the Delhi&nbsp;Fire Department of the threats at around 7 am local time.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-level-meeting-called-by-indian-government-after-10-airplane-bomb-threats-in-last-24-hours-767775">Indian govt calls high-level meeting after hoax bomb threats affect over 10 flights in last 24 hours</a></p>

<h2><strong>Hoax bomb threats across country&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Bomb threats have been taking place in education institutions and airlines through much of this year in India, most of which turned out to be hoaxes.</p>

<p>In October, an explosion took place outside the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) school in the Prashant Vihar area of Rohini in Delhi. The wall of the school, vehicles and nearby shops were damaged.</p>

<p>On October 21, a bomb blast threat was sent to all CRPF schools through an email.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Hoax Bomb Threats Impact Several Indian Flights</strong></p>

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<p>On November 19, the Delhi High Court asked the state government and Delhi police to create a comprehensive action plan which included an extensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dealing with bomb threats as well as other such emergencies.</p>

<p>An eight-week deadline was set by the court for the completion of the plan. In the SOP, the officials were instructed to define the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders which included police, municipal authorities, school administration and other law enforcement agencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


More than 40 schools in India's national capital Delhi received bomb threats through e-mails on Monday morning (Dec 9). The schools which received the bomb threat included Delhi Public School located in RK Puram and GD Goenka School in Paschim Vihar in the early morning hours, as per news agency ANI.

More than 40 schools in India's national capital Delhi received bomb threats through e-mails on Monday morning (Dec 9). The schools which received the bomb threat included Delhi Public School located in RK Puram and GD Goenka School in Paschim Vihar in the early morning hours, as per news agency ANI. According to Delhi Police, the email read, "I planted multiple bombs inside (school) buildings. The bombs are small and hidden very well. It will not cause much damage to the building, but many people will be injured when the bombs detonate. If I do not receive $30,000 I will detonate the bombs." The email was sent to school authorities on Sunday night (Dec 8) at 11:38 pm local time. The IP address of the sender is being investigated by the police. #WATCH | Delhi | Visuals from outside of DPS RK Puram - one of the two schools that receive bomb threats, via e-mail, today morning pic.twitter.com/sQMOPh4opI — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2024 × The students were sent back to their homes by the school administration and police were informed about the incident, confirmed Delhi Police. #WATCH | A team of Delhi police arrives at RK Puram's DPS - one of the two schools that received bomb threats, via e-mail, this morning pic.twitter.com/c23ciJTLGi — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2024 × #WATCH | Delhi | Visuals from outside of GD Goenka Public school, Paschim Vihar - one of the two schools that received bomb threats, via e-mail, today morning pic.twitter.com/XoIBJoVsVt — ANI (@ANI) December 9, 2024 × The threats were revealed at peak hour in schools when buses were arriving, children were being dropped off by their parents and staff busy preparing for the morning assembly. The schools informed the Delhi Fire Department of the threats at around 7 am local time. Also Read: Indian govt calls high-level meeting after hoax bomb threats affect over 10 flights in last 24 hours Hoax bomb threats across country Bomb threats have been taking place in education institutions and airlines through much of this year in India, most of which turned out to be hoaxes. In October, an explosion took place outside the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) school in the Prashant Vihar area of Rohini in Delhi. The wall of the school, vehicles and nearby shops were damaged. On October 21, a bomb blast threat was sent to all CRPF schools through an email. Watch: Hoax Bomb Threats Impact Several Indian Flights On November 19, the Delhi High Court asked the state government and Delhi police to create a comprehensive action plan which included an extensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dealing with bomb threats as well as other such emergencies. An eight-week deadline was set by the court for the completion of the plan. In the SOP, the officials were instructed to define the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders which included police, municipal authorities, school administration and other law enforcement agencies. (With inputs from agencies)

More than 40 schools in Indian capital Delhi receive bomb threats, children sent back

<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Feb 19) said that the officers of the national capital are not willing to work due to the pressure from the BJP which has led to a "serious constitutional crisis".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The chief minister claimed that the proposed 'one-time settlement' scheme for redressing inflated water bills was stopped by the officers. He added that Aam Aadmi Party will start a massive protest in the national capital if the BJP does not allow the implementation of the scheme.</p>

<p>Speaking in the Delhi Assembly, CM Kejriwal appealed to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to give directions for the implementation of the scheme to the officers or take action against them if they are not willing to do it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hinting at another showdown with the BJP-led Centre, Kejriwal said the Delhi government will make sure that the Delhi Jal Board's (DJB) ‘one-time settlement scheme' is implemented at all costs.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/excise-policy-case-ed-likely-to-summon-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-again-as-he-skips-summons-for-the-6th-time-691790">Excise policy case: ED likely to summon Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal again as he skips summons for the 6th time</a></p>

<p>Kejriwal accused the BJP of obstructing schemes like the 'Farishtey' scheme, DTC pensions, Mohalla Clinics, CCTVs and medicines for hospitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Although Delhi is half a state, we feel it's not even 5 per cent a state. If Delhi were a full state, no officer would have dared to ignore orders from the chief minister or ministers. They would have been immediately suspended," Kejriwal said.</p>

<p>He added that a "serious constitutional crisis" has arisen in the national capital after officers&nbsp;refused to work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If they do not work, then how will the government run, can the government run even for two days? Does this suit the Central government, does it suit the BJP?" the chief minister quipped.</p>

<h2><strong>Kejriwal accuses BJP of 'destroying Delhi'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"The BJP feels happy if the people of Delhi are sad or ill. BJP people want to destroy Delhi,” he said.</p>

<p>The chief minister further asked Leader of Opposition Ramvir Singh Bidhuri to leave politics aside and ensure that the scheme is passed with the help of the LG.</p>

<p>"You will get all the credit. I will shout from the top of the Red Fort that BJP people have done this, vote for BJP people. You are doing it for votes. (I know) there is no other reason, take the votes. We don't want votes," Kejriwal said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal wins vote of confidence in Assembly</strong></p>

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<p>Bidhuri, on the other hand, alleged that the government has not been serious about implementing the scheme.</p>

<p>"While a calling attention motion has been presented in the assembly on the issue, the concerned minister and DJB chairperson Atishi is not present in the House. The truth is that the government itself has no intention of settling the bills," said Bidhuri, while questioning how were the consumers sent the inflated bills in the first place.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies</em>)</p>


Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Feb 19) said that the officers of the national capital are not willing to work due to the pressure from the BJP which has led to a "serious constitutional crisis".

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (Feb 19) said that the officers of the national capital are not willing to work due to the pressure from the BJP which has led to a "serious constitutional crisis". The chief minister claimed that the proposed 'one-time settlement' scheme for redressing inflated water bills was stopped by the officers. He added that Aam Aadmi Party will start a massive protest in the national capital if the BJP does not allow the implementation of the scheme. Speaking in the Delhi Assembly, CM Kejriwal appealed to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to give directions for the implementation of the scheme to the officers or take action against them if they are not willing to do it. Hinting at another showdown with the BJP-led Centre, Kejriwal said the Delhi government will make sure that the Delhi Jal Board's (DJB) ‘one-time settlement scheme' is implemented at all costs. Also Read: Excise policy case: ED likely to summon Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal again as he skips summons for the 6th time Kejriwal accused the BJP of obstructing schemes like the 'Farishtey' scheme, DTC pensions, Mohalla Clinics, CCTVs and medicines for hospitals. “Although Delhi is half a state, we feel it's not even 5 per cent a state. If Delhi were a full state, no officer would have dared to ignore orders from the chief minister or ministers. They would have been immediately suspended," Kejriwal said. He added that a "serious constitutional crisis" has arisen in the national capital after officers refused to work. “If they do not work, then how will the government run, can the government run even for two days? Does this suit the Central government, does it suit the BJP?" the chief minister quipped. Kejriwal accuses BJP of 'destroying Delhi' "The BJP feels happy if the people of Delhi are sad or ill. BJP people want to destroy Delhi,” he said. The chief minister further asked Leader of Opposition Ramvir Singh Bidhuri to leave politics aside and ensure that the scheme is passed with the help of the LG. "You will get all the credit. I will shout from the top of the Red Fort that BJP people have done this, vote for BJP people. You are doing it for votes. (I know) there is no other reason, take the votes. We don't want votes," Kejriwal said. Watch: India: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal wins vote of confidence in Assembly Bidhuri, on the other hand, alleged that the government has not been serious about implementing the scheme. "While a calling attention motion has been presented in the assembly on the issue, the concerned minister and DJB chairperson Atishi is not present in the House. The truth is that the government itself has no intention of settling the bills," said Bidhuri, while questioning how were the consumers sent the inflated bills in the first place. (With inputs from agencies)

Arvind Kejriwal warns of protest, says 'serious constitutional crisis' in national capital

<p>The farmers from Punjab resumed&nbsp;their "Chalo Dilli" march on the second day&nbsp;after they clashed with the police on the Punjab-Haryana border on Tuesday (Feb 13) and&nbsp;halted their stir for the night.</p>

<p>On Wednesday (Feb 14), tear gas shells were fired and water sprayed from tankers on the protesting farmers who tried to cross the Shambu border</p>

<p>The police had even earlier in the day&nbsp;resorted to firing tear gas shells to&nbsp;disperse the agitating farmers who were approaching the police barricade.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the authorities have suspended mobile internet services, bulk SMS and all dongle services provided on mobile networks, except the voice calls in the districts Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa of Haryana State&nbsp;till February 15.</p>

<p>Reacting to the resumption of protests by farmers, Union Minister Arjun Munda said, "We are ready to hold discussions...We need to take into account all the sides and hold the talks...I request the farmers' union to maintain the environment for discussions. I had already said that our efforts to hold positive discussions with the farmers' union will continue."</p>

<p>Speaking to the media, Minister Munda said the farmer unions should not take any hasty decision that can draw criticism in the future.</p>

<p>"We should keep in mind all aspects and discuss this. The farmers need to ensure that normal life is not disrupted. I think no solution can be found by doing anything that creates inconvenience for the common man. Such actions only create hurdles in finding a solution. I urge them to maintain a conducive atmosphere for dialogue," the minister said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I will also urge the farmer unions not to get influenced by politics. The government is committed to farmers' welfare," he added. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Tight security on Delhi borders</strong></h2>

<p>In the wake of the protest, tight security arrangements have been made at the Tikri and Singhu Borders and the borders have been closed to prevent farmers from entering the national capital.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heres-how-farmer-protest-20-differs-from-the-2020-stir-five-points-689883">Here’s how Farmer Protest 2.0 differs from the 2020 agitation: Five points</a></p>

<p>Concrete blocks, iron nails, walls of containers and multi-layer barricades have been placed at the Ghazipur, Singhu and Tikri borders and security personnel in anti-riot gear have been deployed in huge numbers.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>In various places, metal and concrete barricades have been placed at various points as part of the security arrangements.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, RAF personnel, police personnel and Riot Control Vehicles have been deployed at the Singhu Border in Delhi.</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI, DSP Anil Kumar said, "Currently, the atmosphere is peaceful. Traffic has been diverted. The movement of the pedestrians is normal."</p>

<p>The police officials are also carrying out security checks at the Shambhu border in Ambala, Haryana, on the second day of the farmers' protest.</p>

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<h2><strong>Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory, heavy traffic snarl at border&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A traffic advisory has been issued by the Delhi Traffic Police&nbsp;in the wake of the farmers' protest, alerting the commuters regarding restrictions on the movement of vehicles at different borders of the national capital.</p>

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In view of the ongoing farmers' protest at various borders of Delhi, traffic diversions will be in place.<br />
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Kindly follow the advisory.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DPTrafficAdvisory?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DPTrafficAdvisory</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y2YtSuCWtv">pic.twitter.com/Y2YtSuCWtv</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>In the protests held on Tuesday, many farmers suffered injuries and an alert was sounded by the Punjab government in the hospitals located in Sangrur, Patiala, Dera Bassi, Mansa and Bathinda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tear gas shells were dropped by the Haryana police using drones on the&nbsp;borders to disperse the protesting farmers and stop them from crossing the border.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Farmers protest India: Protesting farmers march to Delhi, what are their demands?</strong></p>

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<p>The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been leading the "Delhi Chalo" agitation to pressure the central government to fulfil their demands, which include a law on minimum support price for crops and loan waivers.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The farmers from Punjab resumed their "Chalo Dilli" march on the second day after they clashed with the police on the Punjab-Haryana border on Tuesday (Feb 13) and halted their stir for the night.

The farmers from Punjab resumed their "Chalo Dilli" march on the second day after they clashed with the police on the Punjab-Haryana border on Tuesday (Feb 13) and halted their stir for the night. On Wednesday (Feb 14), tear gas shells were fired and water sprayed from tankers on the protesting farmers who tried to cross the Shambu border The police had even earlier in the day resorted to firing tear gas shells to disperse the agitating farmers who were approaching the police barricade. Meanwhile, the authorities have suspended mobile internet services, bulk SMS and all dongle services provided on mobile networks, except the voice calls in the districts Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Jind, Hisar, Fatehabad and Sirsa of Haryana State till February 15. Reacting to the resumption of protests by farmers, Union Minister Arjun Munda said, "We are ready to hold discussions...We need to take into account all the sides and hold the talks...I request the farmers' union to maintain the environment for discussions. I had already said that our efforts to hold positive discussions with the farmers' union will continue." Speaking to the media, Minister Munda said the farmer unions should not take any hasty decision that can draw criticism in the future. "We should keep in mind all aspects and discuss this. The farmers need to ensure that normal life is not disrupted. I think no solution can be found by doing anything that creates inconvenience for the common man. Such actions only create hurdles in finding a solution. I urge them to maintain a conducive atmosphere for dialogue," the minister said. "I will also urge the farmer unions not to get influenced by politics. The government is committed to farmers' welfare," he added. Tight security on Delhi borders In the wake of the protest, tight security arrangements have been made at the Tikri and Singhu Borders and the borders have been closed to prevent farmers from entering the national capital. Also Read: Here’s how Farmer Protest 2.0 differs from the 2020 agitation: Five points Concrete blocks, iron nails, walls of containers and multi-layer barricades have been placed at the Ghazipur, Singhu and Tikri borders and security personnel in anti-riot gear have been deployed in huge numbers. #WATCH | Delhi | Drone visuals show the security arrangements at Tikri Border, in view of the farmers' protest. pic.twitter.com/FJXyQtWbdY — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024 × In various places, metal and concrete barricades have been placed at various points as part of the security arrangements. Meanwhile, RAF personnel, police personnel and Riot Control Vehicles have been deployed at the Singhu Border in Delhi. Speaking to ANI, DSP Anil Kumar said, "Currently, the atmosphere is peaceful. Traffic has been diverted. The movement of the pedestrians is normal." The police officials are also carrying out security checks at the Shambhu border in Ambala, Haryana, on the second day of the farmers' protest. #WATCH | Security checks underway at Shambhu border in Ambala, Haryana on second day of farmers' protest. pic.twitter.com/1xz1AkOlgL — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024 × Delhi Traffic Police issues advisory, heavy traffic snarl at border A traffic advisory has been issued by the Delhi Traffic Police in the wake of the farmers' protest, alerting the commuters regarding restrictions on the movement of vehicles at different borders of the national capital. Traffic Advisory In view of the ongoing farmers' protest at various borders of Delhi, traffic diversions will be in place. Kindly follow the advisory.#DPTrafficAdvisory pic.twitter.com/Y2YtSuCWtv — Delhi Traffic Police (@dtptraffic) February 13, 2024 × #WATCH | Delhi: Heavy traffic snarl seen at Ghazipur border this morning in view of the farmers' protest. pic.twitter.com/CHYCMypeaS — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2024 × In the protests held on Tuesday, many farmers suffered injuries and an alert was sounded by the Punjab government in the hospitals located in Sangrur, Patiala, Dera Bassi, Mansa and Bathinda. Tear gas shells were dropped by the Haryana police using drones on the borders to disperse the protesting farmers and stop them from crossing the border. Watch: Farmers protest India: Protesting farmers march to Delhi, what are their demands? The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have been leading the "Delhi Chalo" agitation to pressure the central government to fulfil their demands, which include a law on minimum support price for crops and loan waivers. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' Protest 2.0: Tear gas shells fired, water sprayed as protests resume at Shambu border

<p lang="en-US">Broad avenues, white classical bungalows, gardens, wide roads and rows of trees – this is what defines the heart of the Indian capital New Delhi, also called Lutyens' Delhi. Standing out on them are tombs, fort ruins, Islamic colleges or madrassas and old mosques which either remain hidden in nooks or corners or make sudden appearances maybe beside a colonial building or maybe at a roundabout.<br />
<br />
One such mosque from the Mughal period, which stands at a roundabout near Udyog Bhawan, has come under contention after the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) called for views from the public over its demolition to ensure sustainable mobility.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Preserving the past</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">To solve the problem of traffic congestion, the historic Sunehri Bagh Masjid is now facing possible demolition which has led to locals and historians raising concerns, considering its historical significance.<br />
<br />
“The Sunehri Bagh mosque was built in the late Mughal era, with a Bangla (vaulted) roof, which was very popular at that time. It's a two-storeyed building and the vaulted prayer chamber is accessed by a flight of stairs. In 1912, when Lutyens' Delhi was being designed, this mosque was not touched as it was an active mosque with regular prayers being held. It was set in the garden of an unknown Hakimji, known as Sunehri bagh from which it derived its name. The lower arched hall was probably for personal or commercial use, as was the custom,” said historian and author Rana Safvi, while speaking to WION.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-mughal-history-should-not-be-taught-in-school-textbooks-580824">Here's why Mughal history should "NOT" be taught in school textbooks</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">“In 1947, after the independence of India, this mosque was in use and hence, it was left undisturbed. Today, approximately 500 devotees gather on Fridays and 200 on other days, according to a TOI report. Considering its heritage value and emotional connection to the community, the mosque should be left alone. As far as the traffic situation is concerned it's inside a roundabout so unless that roundabout is being removed, this mosque should not hamper movement. And if the roundabout is to be removed from this busy street, I am sure urban planners can come up with sustainable solutions,” she added.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Why is the mosque significant?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The mosque is the same place where poet and nationalist Hasrat Mohani - who coined the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” and was the first person to demand a “Purna Swaraj”(full independence for India from the British) in 1930, lived while he was attending the Parliament sessions. This was because he had refused government accommodation and transport.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sunehri bagh masjid is not just a mosque, it has a history that is closely associated with several of our freedom fighters. Hasrat Mohani, member of our Constituent Assembly used to stay here while attending the meetings. Care for its illustrious history. <a href="https://t.co/iGxRZhd1r8">https://t.co/iGxRZhd1r8</a></p>
— S lrfan Habib एस इरफान हबीब عرفان حبئب (@irfhabib) <a href="https://twitter.com/irfhabib/status/1739874496490713429?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Mosque stood as new roads were carved</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Two maps have emerged that show how the mosque stood the trials of times as the city planners carved roads around it, leaving it untouched.<br />
<br />
Historian and author Swapna Liddle said, “When New Delhi began to be planned in 1912, the area between Purana Qila and Raisina was dotted with old buildings, some ruined and abandoned, and some, mostly places of worship, still in use. The reason this map of 1912 was drawn to show old structures in particular, was because a decision had to be made on which of these buildings would be demolished to make way for the new city, and which saved.”</p>

<p lang="en-US"><img alt="Maps" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea086b52-13c0-44b3-8c90-e455ec549510" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-30T215719.916.png" /></p>

<p lang="en-US"><em>Caption: The maps illustrate the city planning done in 1912 and 1942. (Courtesy: Historian Swapna Liddle)&nbsp;&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
“Many, including tombs and palaces, were in fact demolished, but some remained, among which was this Mughal period mosque. The reason was that it was not only of architectural significance, but it was also in use. So it was decided to incorporate it into the town plan by placing it in one of the many roundabouts in the new city. The map of the same area dating to 1942 shows this. This mosque, which survived the ravages of time, and major colonial re-ordering of the space, is now threatened with demolition,” she added.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;S Jaishankar in Russia: India &amp; Russia sign pacts, inch closer to jointly producing weapons</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-in-russia-india-russia-sign-pacts-inch-closer-to-jointly-producing-weapons-wion-674222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">As the debate continues, many historians have called for the protection of the mosque and a number of people have written letters to the NDMC to opt for other ways to decrease traffic congestion. Indian Civil Liberties Union and the socio-cultural impact community 'Purani Dilli waalon ki baatein' have together written a letter to the NDMC in which they have suggested multiple alternative solutions for addressing traffic congestion in the vicinity.<br />
<br />
WION tried to reach out to NDMC for their comment on the issue but did not receive any response till the time the story was published.</p>


Broad avenues, white classical bungalows, gardens, wide roads and rows of trees – this is what defines the heart of the Indian capital New Delhi, also called Lutyens' Delhi.

Broad avenues, white classical bungalows, gardens, wide roads and rows of trees – this is what defines the heart of the Indian capital New Delhi, also called Lutyens' Delhi. Standing out on them are tombs, fort ruins, Islamic colleges or madrassas and old mosques which either remain hidden in nooks or corners or make sudden appearances maybe beside a colonial building or maybe at a roundabout. One such mosque from the Mughal period, which stands at a roundabout near Udyog Bhawan, has come under contention after the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) called for views from the public over its demolition to ensure sustainable mobility. Preserving the past To solve the problem of traffic congestion, the historic Sunehri Bagh Masjid is now facing possible demolition which has led to locals and historians raising concerns, considering its historical significance. “The Sunehri Bagh mosque was built in the late Mughal era, with a Bangla (vaulted) roof, which was very popular at that time. It's a two-storeyed building and the vaulted prayer chamber is accessed by a flight of stairs. In 1912, when Lutyens' Delhi was being designed, this mosque was not touched as it was an active mosque with regular prayers being held. It was set in the garden of an unknown Hakimji, known as Sunehri bagh from which it derived its name. The lower arched hall was probably for personal or commercial use, as was the custom,” said historian and author Rana Safvi, while speaking to WION. Also read: Here's why Mughal history should "NOT" be taught in school textbooks “In 1947, after the independence of India, this mosque was in use and hence, it was left undisturbed. Today, approximately 500 devotees gather on Fridays and 200 on other days, according to a TOI report. Considering its heritage value and emotional connection to the community, the mosque should be left alone. As far as the traffic situation is concerned it's inside a roundabout so unless that roundabout is being removed, this mosque should not hamper movement. And if the roundabout is to be removed from this busy street, I am sure urban planners can come up with sustainable solutions,” she added. Why is the mosque significant? The mosque is the same place where poet and nationalist Hasrat Mohani - who coined the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” and was the first person to demand a “Purna Swaraj”(full independence for India from the British) in 1930, lived while he was attending the Parliament sessions. This was because he had refused government accommodation and transport. Sunehri bagh masjid is not just a mosque, it has a history that is closely associated with several of our freedom fighters. Hasrat Mohani, member of our Constituent Assembly used to stay here while attending the meetings. Care for its illustrious history. https://t.co/iGxRZhd1r8 — S lrfan Habib एस इरफान हबीब عرفان حبئب (@irfhabib) December 27, 2023 × Mosque stood as new roads were carved Two maps have emerged that show how the mosque stood the trials of times as the city planners carved roads around it, leaving it untouched. Historian and author Swapna Liddle said, “When New Delhi began to be planned in 1912, the area between Purana Qila and Raisina was dotted with old buildings, some ruined and abandoned, and some, mostly places of worship, still in use. The reason this map of 1912 was drawn to show old structures in particular, was because a decision had to be made on which of these buildings would be demolished to make way for the new city, and which saved.” Caption: The maps illustrate the city planning done in 1912 and 1942. (Courtesy: Historian Swapna Liddle) “Many, including tombs and palaces, were in fact demolished, but some remained, among which was this Mughal period mosque. The reason was that it was not only of architectural significance, but it was also in use. So it was decided to incorporate it into the town plan by placing it in one of the many roundabouts in the new city. The map of the same area dating to 1942 shows this. This mosque, which survived the ravages of time, and major colonial re-ordering of the space, is now threatened with demolition,” she added. Watch: S Jaishankar in Russia: India & Russia sign pacts, inch closer to jointly producing weapons As the debate continues, many historians have called for the protection of the mosque and a number of people have written letters to the NDMC to opt for other ways to decrease traffic congestion. Indian Civil Liberties Union and the socio-cultural impact community 'Purani Dilli waalon ki baatein' have together written a letter to the NDMC in which they have suggested multiple alternative solutions for addressing traffic congestion in the vicinity. WION tried to reach out to NDMC for their comment on the issue but did not receive any response till the time the story was published.

A Mughal-era mosque in Indian capital Delhi is at centre of development vs history debate. Here's how

The Alps make up the most popular ski destination in the world. but the industry now faces an existential threat as it battles the looming danger of climate change. The region's warmest autumn on record forced many ski resorts in the Alps to delay their opening times this year.

Ski resorts in the Alps battle effects of climate change

<p>The so-called 'odd-even' traffic restriction scheme will not come into effect in Delhi as of now, the Indian capital's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Friday (Nov 10). The&nbsp;scheme, in which the movement of privately owned vehicles is restricted on the basis of their odd or even registration numbers, was supposed to be enforced from November 14, as the air quality of the city and nearby regions worsened in the past few days.</p>

<p>The announcement came days after the Supreme Court&nbsp;left it to the Aam Aadmi Party government to decide on the scheme's implementation, even as it rapped it.<br />
<br />
Reacting to the worsening air quality in the national capital, the court had called the scheme "mere optics".</p>

<p>The court had asked for proof of the success of the scheme.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-gets-a-breather-overnight-rains-bring-relief-clear-smog-657159">New Delhi gets a breather, overnight rains bring relief, clear smog</a></p>

<p>Minister Rai said that the Delhi government will now consider the odd-even scheme's implementation after the air quality review post Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights which often sees fireworks that add to pollution levels.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"An improvement is seen in pollution levels. The AQI, which was 450+, has now reached around 300. (So) the decision to implement odd-even from November 13-20 has been postponed. The situation will be analysed again after Diwali," the minister stated.<br />
<br />
At Friday's hearing on the air quality issue, the court was referred to a report that vehicular pollution is reduced by 13 per cent after implementation of the odd-even scheme.<br />
<br />
The court was further informed that the kilometres travelled also decreased by an estimated 3.78 million per day after the scheme was brought into effect.<br />
<br />
A Delhi government affidavit added that this also decreased the fuel consumption per day by an average of 15 per cent during the scheme.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will cloud-seeding seek to ease Delhi pollution?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-cloud-seeding-seek-to-ease-delhi-pollution-657065/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p><br />
However, the court stated that as per the report, vehicular pollution contributed only 17 per cent to the larger pollution issue and that the scheme has led to a 13 per cent reduction in that amount.<br />
<br />
"Total vehicular pollution is 17 per cent. Of this... you are saying there is a decline of 13 per cent?" the court quizzed, and added, "We are only flagging it. You take a call... you want to do it, then you can. Can't then say 'pollution because Supreme Court passed an order'."</p>

<h2><strong>Rains bring respite for smog-enveloped Delhi</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, even as Delhi was reportedly mulling artificial rain, overnight rains across the national capital helped the AQI to drop&nbsp;from 500 to 407 at 7 am (local time) on Friday (Nov 10).<br />
<br />
"God heard peoples' prayers and intervened... sometimes wind helps. But no thanks to government. (All) we want to know is... what is being done about farm fires, apart from waiting for rain?" said Justice SK Kaul, while speaking about the rains which lashed the capital on Thursday night and Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rai asks UP to stop&nbsp;plying of non-destined vehicles in Delhi from its border&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Minister Gopal Rai on Friday (Nov 10) also&nbsp;wrote&nbsp;to the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh's Transport Minister Daya Shankar Singh to take prompt action to stop the entry of&nbsp;non-destined vehicles in Delhi from their state's border, which he is said is causing vehicular air pollution in the capital city.</p>

<p><img alt="Delhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a445f1a-8d1b-4aef-8037-1fbd8320d598" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-11-10%20at%204.48.52%20PM.jpeg" /></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the University of Delhi also announced an early winter break from November 13 to 19 for the college students in the wake of the capital city's worsening air quality.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The so-called 'odd-even' traffic restriction scheme will not come into effect in Delhi as of now, the Indian capital's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Friday (Nov 10).

The so-called 'odd-even' traffic restriction scheme will not come into effect in Delhi as of now, the Indian capital's Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Friday (Nov 10). The scheme, in which the movement of privately owned vehicles is restricted on the basis of their odd or even registration numbers, was supposed to be enforced from November 14, as the air quality of the city and nearby regions worsened in the past few days. The announcement came days after the Supreme Court left it to the Aam Aadmi Party government to decide on the scheme's implementation, even as it rapped it. Reacting to the worsening air quality in the national capital, the court had called the scheme "mere optics". The court had asked for proof of the success of the scheme. ALSO READ | New Delhi gets a breather, overnight rains bring relief, clear smog Minister Rai said that the Delhi government will now consider the odd-even scheme's implementation after the air quality review post Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights which often sees fireworks that add to pollution levels. "An improvement is seen in pollution levels. The AQI, which was 450+, has now reached around 300. (So) the decision to implement odd-even from November 13-20 has been postponed. The situation will be analysed again after Diwali," the minister stated. At Friday's hearing on the air quality issue, the court was referred to a report that vehicular pollution is reduced by 13 per cent after implementation of the odd-even scheme. The court was further informed that the kilometres travelled also decreased by an estimated 3.78 million per day after the scheme was brought into effect. A Delhi government affidavit added that this also decreased the fuel consumption per day by an average of 15 per cent during the scheme. WATCH | Gravitas: Will cloud-seeding seek to ease Delhi pollution? However, the court stated that as per the report, vehicular pollution contributed only 17 per cent to the larger pollution issue and that the scheme has led to a 13 per cent reduction in that amount. "Total vehicular pollution is 17 per cent. Of this... you are saying there is a decline of 13 per cent?" the court quizzed, and added, "We are only flagging it. You take a call... you want to do it, then you can. Can't then say 'pollution because Supreme Court passed an order'." Rains bring respite for smog-enveloped Delhi Meanwhile, even as Delhi was reportedly mulling artificial rain, overnight rains across the national capital helped the AQI to drop from 500 to 407 at 7 am (local time) on Friday (Nov 10). "God heard peoples' prayers and intervened... sometimes wind helps. But no thanks to government. (All) we want to know is... what is being done about farm fires, apart from waiting for rain?" said Justice SK Kaul, while speaking about the rains which lashed the capital on Thursday night and Friday. Rai asks UP to stop plying of non-destined vehicles in Delhi from its border Minister Gopal Rai on Friday (Nov 10) also wrote to the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh's Transport Minister Daya Shankar Singh to take prompt action to stop the entry of non-destined vehicles in Delhi from their state's border, which he is said is causing vehicular air pollution in the capital city. Meanwhile, the University of Delhi also announced an early winter break from November 13 to 19 for the college students in the wake of the capital city's worsening air quality. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi air pollution: No odd-even rule to come into effect in India's national capital

<p>As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi Police personnel will be deployed on the streets of the nation's capital in heavy numbers ahead of the Friday prayers. Security has also been increased at the Israel Embassy and the Jewish religious establishments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per media reports, some other states and Union Territories of India have also been alerted by the security agencies to ensure that the Israelis residing in the country are safe.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-gaza-strip-and-the-struggle-for-survival-for-millions-of-its-residents-645290">Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents</a></strong></p>

<p>The step has been taken after many countries, which include France, Germany, the US and the UK, increased the security around "potential Jewish targets" and "pro-Palestinian protesters" in the wake of escalating violence between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>State authorities in Himachal Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra were asked to ensure the security of Israeli diplomats, staff and tourists, they stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Operation Ajay:&nbsp;<strong>First flight with Indian citizens arrives from Israel&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday morning, the first charter flight carrying the Indian citizens, who were evacuated from Israel, came back to the country under 'Operation Ajay'. The flight, which was carrying 211 adults and an infant who were living in the war-battered region, landed safely in New Delhi.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Israel took the vow to carry out an unprecedented offensive against the terrorist group Hamas, which controls Gaza, after its fighters broke through Israel's border fence and also stormed into the southern part of the country through air and sea on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Gaza: An 'open-air prison' with no escape</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-gaza-an-open-air-prison-with-no-escape-646201/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Israeli military, on the sixth day, confirmed that more than 1,300 people were killed in Israel, which included 222 soldiers. This is a staggering death toll which was not recorded since the 1973 war with Egypt and Syria, which lasted for weeks.</p>

<p>In the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip around 1,417 people, which included women and children, were killed, as per the local authorities.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities.

As the war continues between the terrorist group Hamas and Israel, India's national capital has been placed on security alert amid fear of potential protests in the city, said police authorities. Delhi Police personnel will be deployed on the streets of the nation's capital in heavy numbers ahead of the Friday prayers. Security has also been increased at the Israel Embassy and the Jewish religious establishments. As per media reports, some other states and Union Territories of India have also been alerted by the security agencies to ensure that the Israelis residing in the country are safe. Also read: Gaza Strip and the struggle for survival for millions of its residents The step has been taken after many countries, which include France, Germany, the US and the UK, increased the security around "potential Jewish targets" and "pro-Palestinian protesters" in the wake of escalating violence between Israel and Hamas. State authorities in Himachal Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra were asked to ensure the security of Israeli diplomats, staff and tourists, they stated. Operation Ajay: First flight with Indian citizens arrives from Israel On Friday morning, the first charter flight carrying the Indian citizens, who were evacuated from Israel, came back to the country under 'Operation Ajay'. The flight, which was carrying 211 adults and an infant who were living in the war-battered region, landed safely in New Delhi. Israel took the vow to carry out an unprecedented offensive against the terrorist group Hamas, which controls Gaza, after its fighters broke through Israel's border fence and also stormed into the southern part of the country through air and sea on October 7. WATCH | Israel-Hamas war | Gaza: An 'open-air prison' with no escape The Israeli military, on the sixth day, confirmed that more than 1,300 people were killed in Israel, which included 222 soldiers. This is a staggering death toll which was not recorded since the 1973 war with Egypt and Syria, which lasted for weeks. In the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip around 1,417 people, which included women and children, were killed, as per the local authorities. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid raging Israel-Hamas war, India’s capital Delhi placed on security alert

<p>The Delhi Services Bill, formally called Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill 2023, is being tabled in the Indian Parliament and is set to replace a current ordinance which overrides a directive of the Supreme Court that had given command to the government of Delhi over most services.<br />
<br />
The ordinance has been a major reason for contention between Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party and the central government.</p>

<p>The bill was passed in both the upper and lower houses of Indian parliament on August 7th. It will promulgate into law once signed by India's President Draupadi Murmu.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened so far?</strong></h2>

<p>On May 11, the Supreme Court of India took the decision in favour of the government of Delhi, giving it complete command over most services in the capital, leaving out public order, land, and police. The Centre on May 19 tabled an ordinance which gave authority to the Delhi government to make recommendations to the Delhi Lieutenant Governor on matters of transfer of postings, vigilance and other incidental issues.<br />
<br />
"In view of its special status as a national capital, a scheme of administration has to be formulated by law, to balance both local and national democratic interests which are at stake, which would reflect the aspirations of the people through joint and collective responsibility of both the Government of India and the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD)," the government order had said.</p>

<p>"A permanent authority headed by the Delhi chief minister is being introduced to make recommendations to the Lieutenant Governor regarding matters concerning transfer posting, vigilance and other incidental matters," it further said.<br />
<br />
The BJP-led Centre was slammed by the AAP government for trying to subvert law and order and taking control of the bureaucracy in the capital city.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bill-to-replace-delhi-services-ordinance-passed-in-lok-sabha-622059">Lok Sabha passes bill to replace ordinance for control of services in Delhi; Shah slams opposition</a></p>

<p>Last Thursday (August 3), Lok Sabha passed a bill which will translate an ordinance into law and will give powers to the Centre-appointed bureaucrats to overrule the elected chief minister and senior officers in the Delhi government even as the opposition parties held a walkout.<br />
<br />
A nearly four-hour-long debate was held in the Lok Sabha after the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was passed.<br />
<br />
Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, while responding to the debate on the bill, clearly stated that the power lies with the central government to make laws on Union territories, and since Delhi is a Union territory, the Centre has full rights to make rules for it as well.<br />
<br />
Reacting to the Opposition's allegations that the Bill is aimed at removing Delhi Assembly’s powers, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "All objections raised are political, which do not have any Constitutional basis.”</p>

<h2><strong>What is the new bill all about?</strong></h2>

<p>The Delhi Services Bill states that the inquiries and suspensions of the officials of the national capital will be under the Centre's control. The Lieutenant Governor will be empowered to exercise his sole discretion on various matters, which will include the National Capital Civil Services Authority's recommendations and the prorogation, summoning, and dissolution of the Delhi Legislative Assembly.<br />
<br />
The National Capital Civil Services Authority will include the Chief Secretary of Delhi, the Principal Home Secretary of Delhi and the Delhi Chief Minister.<br />
<br />
If the bill is passed by the Rajya Sabha, it will then replace an existing ordinance which overrides an order of the Supreme Court and gives the most control over most services to the Delhi government.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Opposition leaders are against it?</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to the debate over Delhi Services Bill, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor alleged that "blatant subversion of the constitutional separation of powers" is happening through the bill. He added that the country is now seeing "coercive federalism".<br />
<br />
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Tharoor argued that the proposed bill is a representation of a "grave chapter in the history of the Indian republic, seeking to ratify an ordinance that in many ways is an assault on our democratic heritage and the spirit of federalism".</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: Delhi services bill: AAP issues whip for Rajya Sabha MPs to be present in House</strong></p>

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<p>Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Meenakshi Lekhi, while intervening in the debate, said that the country has a quasi-federal structure and the Centre is at primacy. She stated that the bill is aimed at statutorily balancing the interests of the Union Territory of Delhi and the nation.<br />
<br />
"India has a quasi-federal structure, which the Constitution demarcates. India is not federal," said Lekhi, adding that the country is being “mislead” by many practising lawyers.</p>

<p>Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that the bill is trying to snatch an elected government's power which is unconstitutional.<br />
<br />
"Snatching the powers of the elected government of Delhi is unconstitutional. It is against the Constitution to snatch the powers of an elected government, whichever party is in power,” said Chowdhury, while speaking to media outside Parliament.<br />
<br />
Delhi CM Kejriwal, sharply reacting to the debate, tweeted, "BJP always promised to give full statehood to Delhi. In 2014, Modi himself said that on becoming prime minister, he would give full statehood to Delhi. But today these people stabbed the people of Delhi in the back. Don't believe anything said by Modi ji from now on.”</p>

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The Delhi Services Bill, formally called Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill 2023, is being tabled in the Indian Parliament and is set to replace a current ordinance which overrides a directive of the Supreme Court that had given command to the government of Delhi over most services.

The Delhi Services Bill, formally called Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill 2023, is being tabled in the Indian Parliament and is set to replace a current ordinance which overrides a directive of the Supreme Court that had given command to the government of Delhi over most services. The ordinance has been a major reason for contention between Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party and the central government. The bill was passed in both the upper and lower houses of Indian parliament on August 7th. It will promulgate into law once signed by India's President Draupadi Murmu. What happened so far? On May 11, the Supreme Court of India took the decision in favour of the government of Delhi, giving it complete command over most services in the capital, leaving out public order, land, and police. The Centre on May 19 tabled an ordinance which gave authority to the Delhi government to make recommendations to the Delhi Lieutenant Governor on matters of transfer of postings, vigilance and other incidental issues. "In view of its special status as a national capital, a scheme of administration has to be formulated by law, to balance both local and national democratic interests which are at stake, which would reflect the aspirations of the people through joint and collective responsibility of both the Government of India and the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD)," the government order had said. "A permanent authority headed by the Delhi chief minister is being introduced to make recommendations to the Lieutenant Governor regarding matters concerning transfer posting, vigilance and other incidental matters," it further said. The BJP-led Centre was slammed by the AAP government for trying to subvert law and order and taking control of the bureaucracy in the capital city. ALSO READ | Lok Sabha passes bill to replace ordinance for control of services in Delhi; Shah slams opposition Last Thursday (August 3), Lok Sabha passed a bill which will translate an ordinance into law and will give powers to the Centre-appointed bureaucrats to overrule the elected chief minister and senior officers in the Delhi government even as the opposition parties held a walkout. A nearly four-hour-long debate was held in the Lok Sabha after the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was passed. Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, while responding to the debate on the bill, clearly stated that the power lies with the central government to make laws on Union territories, and since Delhi is a Union territory, the Centre has full rights to make rules for it as well. Reacting to the Opposition's allegations that the Bill is aimed at removing Delhi Assembly’s powers, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "All objections raised are political, which do not have any Constitutional basis.” What is the new bill all about? The Delhi Services Bill states that the inquiries and suspensions of the officials of the national capital will be under the Centre's control. The Lieutenant Governor will be empowered to exercise his sole discretion on various matters, which will include the National Capital Civil Services Authority's recommendations and the prorogation, summoning, and dissolution of the Delhi Legislative Assembly. The National Capital Civil Services Authority will include the Chief Secretary of Delhi, the Principal Home Secretary of Delhi and the Delhi Chief Minister. If the bill is passed by the Rajya Sabha, it will then replace an existing ordinance which overrides an order of the Supreme Court and gives the most control over most services to the Delhi government. Why Opposition leaders are against it? Reacting to the debate over Delhi Services Bill, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor alleged that "blatant subversion of the constitutional separation of powers" is happening through the bill. He added that the country is now seeing "coercive federalism". Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Tharoor argued that the proposed bill is a representation of a "grave chapter in the history of the Indian republic, seeking to ratify an ordinance that in many ways is an assault on our democratic heritage and the spirit of federalism". WATCH | India: Delhi services bill: AAP issues whip for Rajya Sabha MPs to be present in House Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Meenakshi Lekhi, while intervening in the debate, said that the country has a quasi-federal structure and the Centre is at primacy. She stated that the bill is aimed at statutorily balancing the interests of the Union Territory of Delhi and the nation. "India has a quasi-federal structure, which the Constitution demarcates. India is not federal," said Lekhi, adding that the country is being “mislead” by many practising lawyers. Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said that the bill is trying to snatch an elected government's power which is unconstitutional. "Snatching the powers of the elected government of Delhi is unconstitutional. It is against the Constitution to snatch the powers of an elected government, whichever party is in power,” said Chowdhury, while speaking to media outside Parliament. Delhi CM Kejriwal, sharply reacting to the debate, tweeted, "BJP always promised to give full statehood to Delhi. In 2014, Modi himself said that on becoming prime minister, he would give full statehood to Delhi. But today these people stabbed the people of Delhi in the back. Don't believe anything said by Modi ji from now on.” You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained | What is Delhi Services Bill? How will it affect Indian capital's governance?

<p>India's national capital New Delhi has been currently generating more than 1,100 tonnes of plastic waste every day, but only around 870 tonnes per day (TPD) is being managed or recycled, which leaves a gap of 242 TPD or&nbsp;around 22 per cent of the plastic waste load of Delhi, which finally either reaches the drains or ends up in landfills or contaminates the River Yamuna, as per the latest data.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A target of June 2024 has been set by the national capital to bridge this gap completely.&nbsp;Experts stated that&nbsp;officials may have to work much harder, especially considering that it was not able to implement the ban on 19 single-use plastic (SUP) items successfully.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Municipal bodies shared data during their meeting held with the high-level solid waste monitoring committee, as per which the current plastic waste generation figure of the national capital stood at 1,113.25 TPD, and only 871.25 TPD is being processed, leaving a gap of 242 TPD which needs immediate attention.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-coolest-may-in-36-years-copious-rains-lower-average-maximum-temperature-to-368degc-599302">Delhi's coolest May in 36 years: Copious rains lower average maximum temperature to 36.8°C</a></p>

<p>The committee was appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and is headed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Programme director of the municipal solid waste sector at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Atin Biswas said that waste segregation is the base for any city which is aiming to find a solution to its waste problem.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“At present, even this figure of 78 per cent&nbsp;of plastic being recycled seems fairly high, as Delhi is not segregating its waste like other cities. Only when that is being done, can waste be effectively separated. Until we achieve segregation at source, this target of June 2024 appears highly unlikely,” Biswas stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Capital's unfulfilled single-use plastic (SUP) goals</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the national capital is lagging behind its single-use plastic (SUP) goals. In Delhi, as well as other states and union territories, 19 SUP items were banned from July 1, 2022, onwards, according to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2021 which was issued on August 12, 2021.</p>

<p>Even though a ban was imposed, several items mentioned in the list are still commonly found in the markets of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Delhi experiences coolest May in 36 years | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Price difference substantial</strong></h2>

<p>Fruit juice Bhiku Ram is still using plastic straws and plastic spoons at his shop. He said that he tried to use the alternatives, however, the price difference remained substantial. “Plastic is still easily available and agencies also are not too keen on enforcing such a ban,” Ram stated.</p>

<p>NGO Indian Pollution Control Association (IPCA) founder and director Ashish Jain said, “Agencies are finally beginning to act on plastic pollution, but it still needs a change in the mindset of consumers too. For instance, plastic items like plastic furniture have several alternatives, but plastic ones still exist in the market. We need to stop giving consumers such options.”</p>

<h2><strong>Plans to clear three dumpsites of capital</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the government of Delhi had earlier announced the ambitious project of clearing all three dumpsites in the national capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per their set goals, the Okhla dumpsite should be cleared by December 2023, Bhalswa by March 2024 and Ghazipur by December 2024. Cumulatively, the three dumpsites are covering an area of 200 acres, which carries around 28 million tonnes of legacy waste.&nbsp;</p>

<main>
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India's national capital New Delhi has been currently generating more than 1,100 tonnes of plastic waste every day, but only around 870 tonnes per day (TPD) is being managed or recycled, which leaves a gap of 242 TPD or around 22 per cent of the plastic waste load of Delhi, which finally either reaches the drains or ends up in landfills or contaminates the River Yamuna, as per the latest data.

India's national capital New Delhi has been currently generating more than 1,100 tonnes of plastic waste every day, but only around 870 tonnes per day (TPD) is being managed or recycled, which leaves a gap of 242 TPD or around 22 per cent of the plastic waste load of Delhi, which finally either reaches the drains or ends up in landfills or contaminates the River Yamuna, as per the latest data. A target of June 2024 has been set by the national capital to bridge this gap completely. Experts stated that officials may have to work much harder, especially considering that it was not able to implement the ban on 19 single-use plastic (SUP) items successfully. Municipal bodies shared data during their meeting held with the high-level solid waste monitoring committee, as per which the current plastic waste generation figure of the national capital stood at 1,113.25 TPD, and only 871.25 TPD is being processed, leaving a gap of 242 TPD which needs immediate attention. ALSO READ | Delhi's coolest May in 36 years: Copious rains lower average maximum temperature to 36.8°C The committee was appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and is headed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. Programme director of the municipal solid waste sector at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Atin Biswas said that waste segregation is the base for any city which is aiming to find a solution to its waste problem. “At present, even this figure of 78 per cent of plastic being recycled seems fairly high, as Delhi is not segregating its waste like other cities. Only when that is being done, can waste be effectively separated. Until we achieve segregation at source, this target of June 2024 appears highly unlikely,” Biswas stated. Capital's unfulfilled single-use plastic (SUP) goals Meanwhile, the national capital is lagging behind its single-use plastic (SUP) goals. In Delhi, as well as other states and union territories, 19 SUP items were banned from July 1, 2022, onwards, according to the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2021 which was issued on August 12, 2021. Even though a ban was imposed, several items mentioned in the list are still commonly found in the markets of the city. WATCH | Delhi experiences coolest May in 36 years | WION Climate Tracker Price difference substantial Fruit juice Bhiku Ram is still using plastic straws and plastic spoons at his shop. He said that he tried to use the alternatives, however, the price difference remained substantial. “Plastic is still easily available and agencies also are not too keen on enforcing such a ban,” Ram stated. NGO Indian Pollution Control Association (IPCA) founder and director Ashish Jain said, “Agencies are finally beginning to act on plastic pollution, but it still needs a change in the mindset of consumers too. For instance, plastic items like plastic furniture have several alternatives, but plastic ones still exist in the market. We need to stop giving consumers such options.” Plans to clear three dumpsites of capital Meanwhile, the government of Delhi had earlier announced the ambitious project of clearing all three dumpsites in the national capital. As per their set goals, the Okhla dumpsite should be cleared by December 2023, Bhalswa by March 2024 and Ghazipur by December 2024. Cumulatively, the three dumpsites are covering an area of 200 acres, which carries around 28 million tonnes of legacy waste. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Around 240 tonnes of plastic waste gets dumped in India's national capital every day, says report

The air pollution is one of the most environmental health crises of our times and according to the United Nations, it is in fact responsible for an estimated 7 million premature deaths every single year. Meanwhile, it is not less than a punishment to live in the national capital with this pollution.

WION Dispatch | India: Pollution choking New Delhi again, thick smog covers national capital

<p>In view of the dip in the daily confirmed cases of coronavirus, the government of Indian national capital has decided on Friday to reopen schools for all classes from nursery onwards. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The gyms will also open shutters with certain restrictions. The drivers travelling alone in cars&nbsp;will also be exempted from wearing masks. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The announcement of relaxation of Covid restrictions was made by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/younger-population-infected-more-in-third-wave-says-icmr-450374" hreflang="en">Younger population infected more in third wave, says ICMR</a></strong></p>

<p>The teachers, who are not vaccinated, will not be allowed to come to schools, Sisodia said. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The night curfew will continue for now, but will begin from 11 pm instead of 10 pm, the government said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The restaurants have been allowed by the DDMA to remain open till 11 pm. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A number of key decisions were taken during the DDMA meeting on Friday. The decisions were taken keeping in mind the decline in coronavirus cases in Delhi. These decisions will help in ensuring that people's lives and businesses can come back on track," Sisodia said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fresh-spell-of-snowfall-greets-tourists-in-kashmir-valley-450194" hreflang="en">Fresh spell of snowfall greets tourists in Kashmir Valley</a></strong></p>

<p>At an online briefing, Sisodia added, "Schools will reopen for classes 9-12 from February 7 and for nursery to 8 from February 14. The classes will continue to be in a hybrid mode." &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has also decided to reopen higher education institutions and coaching centres from February 7. "However, colleges will be discouraged to hold online classes and should start offline teaching," he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


In view of the dip in the daily confirmed cases of coronavirus, the government of Indian national capital has decided on Friday to reopen schools for all classes from nursery onwards.

In view of the dip in the daily confirmed cases of coronavirus, the government of Indian national capital has decided on Friday to reopen schools for all classes from nursery onwards. The gyms will also open shutters with certain restrictions. The drivers travelling alone in cars will also be exempted from wearing masks. The announcement of relaxation of Covid restrictions was made by Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. Also Read: Younger population infected more in third wave, says ICMR The teachers, who are not vaccinated, will not be allowed to come to schools, Sisodia said. The night curfew will continue for now, but will begin from 11 pm instead of 10 pm, the government said. The restaurants have been allowed by the DDMA to remain open till 11 pm. "A number of key decisions were taken during the DDMA meeting on Friday. The decisions were taken keeping in mind the decline in coronavirus cases in Delhi. These decisions will help in ensuring that people's lives and businesses can come back on track," Sisodia said. Also Read: Fresh spell of snowfall greets tourists in Kashmir Valley At an online briefing, Sisodia added, "Schools will reopen for classes 9-12 from February 7 and for nursery to 8 from February 14. The classes will continue to be in a hybrid mode." The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has also decided to reopen higher education institutions and coaching centres from February 7. "However, colleges will be discouraged to hold online classes and should start offline teaching," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

With dip in Covid cases on mind, India's national capital orders reopening of schools, colleges, gyms

Delhi is in a critical situation as coronavirus spread and pollution in the city are on the peak. Delhi witnessed the 6th day of severe pollution after farmers from neighbouring cities set fire to their land after harvesting to start agriculture for the next season.

Air pollution doubles in Delhi amid festival season

<p>The national capital witnessed a record jump of 500 coronavirus cases&nbsp;in a day, taking the total tally to 10,554 and the death toll has reached 166, the Delhi Health Department said on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Out of the 10,554 cases, 5648 were active, it said.</p>

<p>As per the Delhi Health reports, six deaths were added in the tally taking the total COVID-19 toll in the national capital to 166, however, none of these was reported in the last 24 hours.</p>

<p>The Health report said that the cumulative death figures refer to the fatalities where the primary cause of death was found to be the infection, as per the report of the Death Audit Committee on the basis of the case sheets received from the various hospitals.</p>

<p>The Health Department said a total of 265 patients have recovered in the city in the last 24 hours.</p>

<p>"Total 500 new cases were reported and the positive cases in the city reached 10,554 on Tuesday. At least 4,750 patients have recovered from coronavirus so far in Delhi while 5,638 cases are active," the Health Department said.</p>

<p>According to the Delhi Health Bulletin, among the 166 who died, 141 had other serious diseases. Also, only 34 people out of the total deaths were those below the age of 50 years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


The national capital witnessed a record jump of 500 coronavirus cases in a day, taking the total tally to 10,554 and the death toll has reached 166, the Delhi Health Department said on Tuesday.

The national capital witnessed a record jump of 500 coronavirus cases in a day, taking the total tally to 10,554 and the death toll has reached 166, the Delhi Health Department said on Tuesday. Out of the 10,554 cases, 5648 were active, it said. As per the Delhi Health reports, six deaths were added in the tally taking the total COVID-19 toll in the national capital to 166, however, none of these was reported in the last 24 hours. The Health report said that the cumulative death figures refer to the fatalities where the primary cause of death was found to be the infection, as per the report of the Death Audit Committee on the basis of the case sheets received from the various hospitals. The Health Department said a total of 265 patients have recovered in the city in the last 24 hours. "Total 500 new cases were reported and the positive cases in the city reached 10,554 on Tuesday. At least 4,750 patients have recovered from coronavirus so far in Delhi while 5,638 cases are active," the Health Department said. According to the Delhi Health Bulletin, among the 166 who died, 141 had other serious diseases. Also, only 34 people out of the total deaths were those below the age of 50 years. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi records 500 new coronavirus cases as tally reaches 10,554

A person named Kapil Gujjar opened fire during anti-CAA protest on Saturday in the national capital's Shaheen Bagh. The shooter has been taken into custody. The firing occurred near Jasola red light. No one was injured in the incident which took place around 4:53 pm.

A person open fires at Shaheen Bagh shouting "Sirf Hinduon Ki Chalegi"

Millions Of Lives In National Capital Delhi At Risk As Pollution Levels Continue To Rise.

Gravitas: Delhi's Pollution - crisis deepens

Air quality in Delhi has dipped to severe category and its high time to take urgent action to protect yourself from smog. Watch this episode of WION Wideangle to know about the ways adopted by people in Delhi to tackle the Airpocalypse.

WION Wideangle: Tackling India's Airpocalypse

<p>The National capital on Thursday recorded a minimum temperature of 3.7 degrees Celsius, which was four notches below the season's average, the India Meteorological Department said.</p>

<p>The maximum temperature is expected to rise to 21 degrees during the day, officials from the weather department noted.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The level of humidity recorded at around 8:30 am today was 97 per cent while the visibility in the morning was 800 metres.</p>

<p>The overall air quality in the city on Thursday was recorded at "very poor", the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) said.</p>

<p>Delhi on Wednesday recorded the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-records-coldest-day-of-the-month-mercury-dips-to-3-degrees-186552">lowest temperature for the season</a>&nbsp;at 3.6 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>Delhi has been reeling under a cold wave for the past few days. The temperature is expected to dip further to as low as 3.0 degrees Celsius after December 28.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The National capital on Thursday recorded a minimum temperature of 3.7 degrees Celsius, which was four notches below the season's average, the India Meteorological Department said.

The National capital on Thursday recorded a minimum temperature of 3.7 degrees Celsius, which was four notches below the season's average, the India Meteorological Department said. The maximum temperature is expected to rise to 21 degrees during the day, officials from the weather department noted. The level of humidity recorded at around 8:30 am today was 97 per cent while the visibility in the morning was 800 metres. The overall air quality in the city on Thursday was recorded at "very poor", the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) said. Delhi on Wednesday recorded the lowest temperature for the season at 3.6 degrees Celsius. Delhi has been reeling under a cold wave for the past few days. The temperature is expected to dip further to as low as 3.0 degrees Celsius after December 28. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi continues to grapple with dip in temperature, 'poor' air quality

<p>Petrol price today hit a four-year high of Rs 73.73 a litre while diesel rates touched an all-time high of Rs 64.58 in the national capital, renewing calls for the government to cut excise tax rates.</p>

<p>State-owned oil firms, which have been since June last year revising auto fuel prices daily, today raised petrol and diesel rates by 18 paise per litre each in Delhi, according to a price notification.</p>

<p>Petrol in the national capital now costs Rs 73.73 a litre, the highest since September 14, 2014 when rates had hit Rs 76.06. Diesel price at Rs 64.58 is the highest ever, with previous high of Rs 64.22 being on February 7, 2018.</p>

<p>The Oil Ministry had earlier this year sought a reduction in excise duty on petrol an diesel to cushion the impact rising international oil rates but Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his Budget presented on February 1 ignored those calls.</p>

<p>India has the highest retail prices of petrol and diesel among South Asian nations as taxes account for half of the pump rates.</p>

<p>Jaitley had raised excise duty nine times between November 2014 and January 2016 to shore up finances as global oil prices fell, but then cut the tax just once in October last year by Rs 2 a litre.</p>

<p>Subsequent to that excise duty reduction, the Centre had asked states to also lower VAT but just four of them -- Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh -- reduced rates while others including BJP-ruled ones ignored the call.</p>

<p>The central government had cut excise duty by Rs 2 per litre in October 2017, when petrol price reached Rs 70.88 per litre in Delhi and diesel Rs. 59.14. Because of the reduction in excise duty, diesel prices had on October 4, 2017 come down to Rs</p>

<p>56.89 per litre and petrol to Rs 68.38 per litre. However, a global rally in crude prices pushed domestic fuel prices far higher than those levels.</p>

<p>The October 2017 excise duty cut cost the government Rs 26,000 crore in annual revenue and about Rs 13,000 crore during the remaining part of the current fiscal year.</p>

<p>The government had between November 2014 and January 2016 raised excise duty on petrol and diesel on nine occasions to take away gains arising from plummeting global oil prices. In all, duty on petrol rate was hiked by Rs 11.77 per litre and that on diesel by 13.47 a litre in those 15 months that helped government's excise mop up more than double to Rs 242,000 crore in 2016-17 from Rs 99,000 crore in 2014-15.</p>

<p>State-owned oil companies -- Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation -- in June last year dumped the 15-year old practice of revising rates on the 1st and 16th of every month . Instead, they adopted a daily price revision system to instantly reflect changes in cost. Since then, prices are revised on a daily basis.&nbsp</p>


Petrol was selling at Rs 73.73 and diesel at Rs 64.58 a litre in Delhi, renewing calls for the government to cut excise tax rates

Petrol price today hit a four-year high of Rs 73.73 a litre while diesel rates touched an all-time high of Rs 64.58 in the national capital, renewing calls for the government to cut excise tax rates. State-owned oil firms, which have been since June last year revising auto fuel prices daily, today raised petrol and diesel rates by 18 paise per litre each in Delhi, according to a price notification. Petrol in the national capital now costs Rs 73.73 a litre, the highest since September 14, 2014 when rates had hit Rs 76.06. Diesel price at Rs 64.58 is the highest ever, with previous high of Rs 64.22 being on February 7, 2018. The Oil Ministry had earlier this year sought a reduction in excise duty on petrol an diesel to cushion the impact rising international oil rates but Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his Budget presented on February 1 ignored those calls. India has the highest retail prices of petrol and diesel among South Asian nations as taxes account for half of the pump rates. Jaitley had raised excise duty nine times between November 2014 and January 2016 to shore up finances as global oil prices fell, but then cut the tax just once in October last year by Rs 2 a litre. Subsequent to that excise duty reduction, the Centre had asked states to also lower VAT but just four of them -- Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh -- reduced rates while others including BJP-ruled ones ignored the call. The central government had cut excise duty by Rs 2 per litre in October 2017, when petrol price reached Rs 70.88 per litre in Delhi and diesel Rs. 59.14. Because of the reduction in excise duty, diesel prices had on October 4, 2017 come down to Rs 56.89 per litre and petrol to Rs 68.38 per litre. However, a global rally in crude prices pushed domestic fuel prices far higher than those levels. The October 2017 excise duty cut cost the government Rs 26,000 crore in annual revenue and about Rs 13,000 crore during the remaining part of the current fiscal year. The government had between November 2014 and January 2016 raised excise duty on petrol and diesel on nine occasions to take away gains arising from plummeting global oil prices. In all, duty on petrol rate was hiked by Rs 11.77 per litre and that on diesel by 13.47 a litre in those 15 months that helped government's excise mop up more than double to Rs 242,000 crore in 2016-17 from Rs 99,000 crore in 2014-15. State-owned oil companies -- Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation -- in June last year dumped the 15-year old practice of revising rates on the 1st and 16th of every month . Instead, they adopted a daily price revision system to instantly reflect changes in cost. Since then, prices are revised on a daily basis.

Petrol prices hit 4-year high, diesel at all-time high

<p>In order to provide quality education, the Delhi government today decided to introduce a new type of school named &#39;School of Excellence&#39; in the national capital.</p>

<p>Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisoida said these schools would impart education through English language and the admission process for nursery to class five and, Class nine and 11 would start from next year.</p>

<p>The new buildings of &#39;School of Excellence&#39; in Rohini, Khichdipur, Kalkaji, Madanpur Khadar and Dwarka are ready.</p>

<p>The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.</p>

<p>At present, there are three categories of government-run schools in the national capital - Rajkiya Vidalaya, Pratibha Vikas Vidalya and Sarvodaya Vidalya.</p>

<p>Briefing the mediapersons about the Cabinet decisions, Sisodia, who also holds the education portfolio, said the government would set up a model of good education by opening the &#39;Schools of Excellence&#39;.</p>

<p>In Pratibha Vidalaya, students are admitted after entrance tests while in Sarvodaya and Rajkiya Vidalaya, there is no such condition, he said.</p>

<p>&quot;For admission to Schools of Excellence... Neighbourhood criteria will be followed. The number of seats in these schools would be limited. Twenty-five students in each section of the nursery to class five.</p>

<p>However, there will be written tests for admission in Class nine and Class 11,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Apart from this, the Cabinet has also decided to set up a world-class skill centre in south-west Delhi&#39;s Jaunapur area.</p>

<p>&quot;The Cabinet has approved Rs 254 crore for setting up the world-class skill centre. Construction of the skill centre will be completed in the next two years,&quot; Sisodia said.</p>

<p>This would be second such skill centre in the national capital after one such facility in East Delhi&#39;s Vivek Area.</p>


The new buildings of 'School of Excellence' in Rohini, Khichdipur, Kalkaji, Madanpur Khadar and Dwarka are ready.

In order to provide quality education, the Delhi government today decided to introduce a new type of school named 'School of Excellence' in the national capital. Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisoida said these schools would impart education through English language and the admission process for nursery to class five and, Class nine and 11 would start from next year. The new buildings of 'School of Excellence' in Rohini, Khichdipur, Kalkaji, Madanpur Khadar and Dwarka are ready. The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. At present, there are three categories of government-run schools in the national capital - Rajkiya Vidalaya, Pratibha Vikas Vidalya and Sarvodaya Vidalya. Briefing the mediapersons about the Cabinet decisions, Sisodia, who also holds the education portfolio, said the government would set up a model of good education by opening the 'Schools of Excellence'. In Pratibha Vidalaya, students are admitted after entrance tests while in Sarvodaya and Rajkiya Vidalaya, there is no such condition, he said. "For admission to Schools of Excellence... Neighbourhood criteria will be followed. The number of seats in these schools would be limited. Twenty-five students in each section of the nursery to class five. However, there will be written tests for admission in Class nine and Class 11," he said. Apart from this, the Cabinet has also decided to set up a world-class skill centre in south-west Delhi's Jaunapur area. "The Cabinet has approved Rs 254 crore for setting up the world-class skill centre. Construction of the skill centre will be completed in the next two years," Sisodia said. This would be second such skill centre in the national capital after one such facility in East Delhi's Vivek Area.

Delhi govt to introduce 'School of Excellence' for providing quality education

<p>A scuffle broke out between alleged supporters of wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Parveen Rana at K&nbsp;D&nbsp;Jadhav Stadium in New Delhi on Friday afternoon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency ANI reports that the reason for the scuffle is not known yet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Scuffle broke out between alleged supporters of wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Parveen Rana at K. D. Jadhav Stadium in Delhi; reason not yet ascertained <a href="https://t.co/sigLOa3koY">pic.twitter.com/sigLOa3koY</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/946699625792016390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking to reporters London Olympic silver medallist Sushil Kumar condemned the incident and said that there was no space for such things in sports.</p>

<p>&#39;&#39;It is very unfortunate and I condemn it. It is wrong, there is no space for such things in sports,&#39;&#39; Sushil Kumar said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is very unfortunate and I condemn it. It is wrong, there is no space for such things in sports: Sushil Kumar <a href="https://t.co/goBjB8JTz2">pic.twitter.com/goBjB8JTz2</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/946700494210088960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sushil qualified for the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia after beating Jitender Kumar in the 74kg weight category.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Reports say that the scuffle broke out after Parveen bit Sushil during a Commonwealth Games qualification trail in the national capital.

A scuffle broke out between alleged supporters of wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Parveen Rana at K D Jadhav Stadium in New Delhi on Friday afternoon. News agency ANI reports that the reason for the scuffle is not known yet. #WATCH: Scuffle broke out between alleged supporters of wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Parveen Rana at K. D. Jadhav Stadium in Delhi; reason not yet ascertained pic.twitter.com/sigLOa3koY — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2017 × Speaking to reporters London Olympic silver medallist Sushil Kumar condemned the incident and said that there was no space for such things in sports. ''It is very unfortunate and I condemn it. It is wrong, there is no space for such things in sports,'' Sushil Kumar said. It is very unfortunate and I condemn it. It is wrong, there is no space for such things in sports: Sushil Kumar pic.twitter.com/goBjB8JTz2 — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2017 × Sushil qualified for the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia after beating Jitender Kumar in the 74kg weight category.

Watch: Scuffle breaks out at wrestling event where Sushil Kumar, Parveen Rana were present

<p>Twelve trains were cancelled, two rescheduled and&nbsp;25 trains delayed due to fog as cold wave intensified in the national capital on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The India Meteorological Department&nbsp;said the minimum temperature in Delhi is likely to be 8 degrees Celsius and maximum temperature will hover around 18 degrees Celsius, five degrees below normal.</p>

<p>The national capital had been experiencing bitter cold for the past few days.</p>

<p>People took refuge at night shelters in Delhi and lit fire to keep themselves warm at several locations.</p>

<p>Earlier on December 13, at least 13 trains were delayed, 10 cancelled and one rescheduled due to foggy weather and low visibility in the national capital.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The India Meteorological Department report said the minimum temperature in Delhi to be 8 degrees Celsius and maximum temperature of 18 degrees Celsius.

Twelve trains were cancelled, two rescheduled and 25 trains delayed due to fog as cold wave intensified in the national capital on Friday. The India Meteorological Department said the minimum temperature in Delhi is likely to be 8 degrees Celsius and maximum temperature will hover around 18 degrees Celsius, five degrees below normal. The national capital had been experiencing bitter cold for the past few days. People took refuge at night shelters in Delhi and lit fire to keep themselves warm at several locations. Earlier on December 13, at least 13 trains were delayed, 10 cancelled and one rescheduled due to foggy weather and low visibility in the national capital.

12 trains cancelled, 25 delayed due to fog in Delhi

<p>The body of an African national was found under mysterious circumstances at Mahatma Gandhi (MG) road in New Delhi on Monday.</p>

<p>The identity of the deceased person is yet to be ascertained. A passerby noticed the body and immediately informed the police, who sent the body for post-mortem.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Body of an African national found at MG Road in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>, this morning. Identity yet to be ascertained.</p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/940077085812387840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>As per reports, there are no visible injury marks on the body but reports say&nbsp;unnatural death is suspected.</p>

<p>Earlier in the year, there were&nbsp;a series of racial attacks on Africans in Delhi and adjoining areas.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The identity of the deceased person is yet to be ascertained.

The body of an African national was found under mysterious circumstances at Mahatma Gandhi (MG) road in New Delhi on Monday. The identity of the deceased person is yet to be ascertained. A passerby noticed the body and immediately informed the police, who sent the body for post-mortem. Body of an African national found at MG Road in #Delhi, this morning. Identity yet to be ascertained. — ANI (@ANI) December 11, 2017 × As per reports, there are no visible injury marks on the body but reports say unnatural death is suspected. Earlier in the year, there were a series of racial attacks on Africans in Delhi and adjoining areas.

African national found dead under mysterious circumstances at MG Road

<p>The National <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/install-rainwater-harvesting-system-in-two-months-ngt-to-delhi-schools-colleges-24362">Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday allowed</a> construction activities to resume in the national capital while asking the government to take preventive measures in order to control air pollution.</p>

<p>The NGT also lifted the ban on the entry of trucks in the Delhi. The Delhi High Court had allowed entry of trucks and removed the&nbsp;four-fold increase in parking fees on Thursday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">National Green Tribunal allows construction activities in the national capital, asks for preventive measures to be taken in order to control air pollution</p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/931390373363978240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>&#39;&#39;Ban on entry of trucks has also been lifted, but should be properly regulated,&#39;&#39; news agency ANI reported quoting NGT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prohibitory order on industries, burning of crops will continue to be in place, according to the NGT order.</p>

<p>The sprinkling of water will continue where particles are dense. The NGT has told Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to implement water sprinkling&nbsp;in their respective states.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kanpur: Fire Brigade Services &amp; Municipality sprinkled water on roads in Ghanta Ghar Chauraha in light of increase in pollution in the city. <a href="https://t.co/eFQybWKtSa">pic.twitter.com/eFQybWKtSa</a></p>
&mdash; ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/931392351217491969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>The NGT also directed Delhi and other neighbouring states to file a status report within two weeks.</p>


The NGT also lifted the ban on the entry of trucks in the Capital.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday allowed construction activities to resume in the national capital while asking the government to take preventive measures in order to control air pollution. The NGT also lifted the ban on the entry of trucks in the Delhi. The Delhi High Court had allowed entry of trucks and removed the four-fold increase in parking fees on Thursday. National Green Tribunal allows construction activities in the national capital, asks for preventive measures to be taken in order to control air pollution — ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2017 × ''Ban on entry of trucks has also been lifted, but should be properly regulated,'' news agency ANI reported quoting NGT. Prohibitory order on industries, burning of crops will continue to be in place, according to the NGT order. The sprinkling of water will continue where particles are dense. The NGT has told Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to implement water sprinkling in their respective states. Kanpur: Fire Brigade Services & Municipality sprinkled water on roads in Ghanta Ghar Chauraha in light of increase in pollution in the city. pic.twitter.com/eFQybWKtSa — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 17, 2017 × The NGT also directed Delhi and other neighbouring states to file a status report within two weeks.

NGT allows construction activities to resume in Delhi

<p>Seeking assistance in lowering the pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government has written to the Centre asking for aerial sprinkling of water through helicopter.</p>

<p>In a letter to Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan, Delhi&rsquo;s Environment Minister Imran Hussain has said that Delhi government is ready to bear the cost of the exercise.</p>

<p>&quot;In view of the continuous poor air quality in Delhi, it is requested that your good office may kindly propose to Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India to carry out an exercise to sprinkle water aerially through helicopter/aircraft to settle particulate matters in Delhi. Government of NCT of Delhi is willing to bear the expenses from Air Ambience Fund of DPCC,&quot; Hussain said in his letter.</p>

<p><strong>READ THE FULL LETTER BELOW:</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Delhi minister&#39;s letter to Harsh Vardhan (WION)</p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi registered a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/environment-minister-claims-very-good-air-quality-in-delhi-anand-vihar-continues-to-show-hazardous-aqi-22737">marginal drop in pollution levels</a> in days after Diwali, but many areas of the national capital have very poor air quality. With and Air Quality Index (AQI) of 569, the pollution levels at Delhi&#39;s Anand Vihar was marked&nbsp;&quot;Hazardous&quot; whereas the air quality at RK Puram and ITO was rated &quot;Very Unhealthy&quot; with 239 and 251&nbsp;(AQI) respectively.</p>

<p>This comes days after Harsh Vardhan tweeted to say that the&nbsp;air quality in Delhi has been very good this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;We are on the right path,&#39;&#39; the minister said and added that good days have improved.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-to-lift-ban-on-firecrackers-in-delhi-ncr-says-its-an-experiment-for-1-year-22393">Supreme Court had recently banned sale of firecrackers</a>&nbsp;to regulate the pollution caused by crackers during Diwali this year.</p>


Delhi registered a marginal drop in pollution levels in days after Diwali, but many areas of the national capital have very poor air quality.

Seeking assistance in lowering the pollution levels in the national capital, the Delhi government has written to the Centre asking for aerial sprinkling of water through helicopter. In a letter to Union Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan, Delhi’s Environment Minister Imran Hussain has said that Delhi government is ready to bear the cost of the exercise. "In view of the continuous poor air quality in Delhi, it is requested that your good office may kindly propose to Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India to carry out an exercise to sprinkle water aerially through helicopter/aircraft to settle particulate matters in Delhi. Government of NCT of Delhi is willing to bear the expenses from Air Ambience Fund of DPCC," Hussain said in his letter. READ THE FULL LETTER BELOW: Delhi minister's letter to Harsh Vardhan (WION) × Delhi registered a marginal drop in pollution levels in days after Diwali, but many areas of the national capital have very poor air quality. With and Air Quality Index (AQI) of 569, the pollution levels at Delhi's Anand Vihar was marked "Hazardous" whereas the air quality at RK Puram and ITO was rated "Very Unhealthy" with 239 and 251 (AQI) respectively. This comes days after Harsh Vardhan tweeted to say that the air quality in Delhi has been very good this year. "We are on the right path,'' the minister said and added that good days have improved. The Supreme Court had recently banned sale of firecrackers to regulate the pollution caused by crackers during Diwali this year.

To curb pollution, Delhi govt wants aerial sprinkling of water, ready to pay the bill

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