While Pakistan has not been part of the SAARC commerce ministers video conference meeting that happened on Wednesday since SAARC secretariat wasn't present, it is now learnt that Pakistan is keen to involve the secretariat so that it can block Indian initiatives. Pakistan has been trying to bring all COVID interaction, which is currently India led, under formal SAARC platform by involving SAARC secretariat.&nbsp;

If current COVID talks happen under SAARC umbrella sources said Islamabad is sure to block Indian initiatives and proposals using SAARC charter provisions, rules of procedures as it has done in the past. Additional, Pakistan will be keen on using consensus, an old tactic to stall agenda drafting, outcome documents and bring the situation to a stalemate, which cant be risked as the crisis spreads.

In the past, Islamabad had used the secretariat to block the initiative by New Delhi and blocked a major connectivity proposal--SAARC Motor Vehicle Agreement, a key outcome of the last formal SAARC Summit that took place in Kathmandu way back in 2014.

Current India led activities, sources said, are events under COVID crisis and New Delhi described these activities as stand-alone and outside the "SAARC calendar of approved activities". The aim of being jointly dealing with the crisis in the region without being bound by procedural formalities and focus on the result.&nbsp;

India PM Modi last month called for a joint SAARC strategy to deal with the COVID crisis ad for which had proposed a video conference. All Saarc countries participated at heads of govt/states level barring Pakistan which was represented at a junior advisor level. Since then two&nbsp;video meets have taken place on SAARC --Health officials and commerce officials, the last did not saw any Pakistani participation. Pakistan has also not contributed to SAARC COVID emergency fund, in which all the countries of the region have announced contribution barring Islamabad.

While Pakistan has not been part of the SAARC commerce ministers video conference meeting that happened on Wednesday since SAARC secretariat wasn't present, it is now learnt that Pakistan is keen to involve the secretariat so that it can block Indian initiatives.

While Pakistan has not been part of the SAARC commerce ministers video conference meeting that happened on Wednesday since SAARC secretariat wasn't present, it is now learnt that Pakistan is keen to involve the secretariat so that it can block Indian initiatives. Pakistan has been trying to bring all COVID interaction, which is currently India led, under formal SAARC platform by involving SAARC secretariat. If current COVID talks happen under SAARC umbrella sources said Islamabad is sure to block Indian initiatives and proposals using SAARC charter provisions, rules of procedures as it has done in the past. Additional, Pakistan will be keen on using consensus, an old tactic to stall agenda drafting, outcome documents and bring the situation to a stalemate, which cant be risked as the crisis spreads. In the past, Islamabad had used the secretariat to block the initiative by New Delhi and blocked a major connectivity proposal--SAARC Motor Vehicle Agreement, a key outcome of the last formal SAARC Summit that took place in Kathmandu way back in 2014. Current India led activities, sources said, are events under COVID crisis and New Delhi described these activities as stand-alone and outside the "SAARC calendar of approved activities". The aim of being jointly dealing with the crisis in the region without being bound by procedural formalities and focus on the result. India PM Modi last month called for a joint SAARC strategy to deal with the COVID crisis ad for which had proposed a video conference. All Saarc countries participated at heads of govt/states level barring Pakistan which was represented at a junior advisor level. Since then two video meets have taken place on SAARC --Health officials and commerce officials, the last did not saw any Pakistani participation. Pakistan has also not contributed to SAARC COVID emergency fund, in which all the countries of the region have announced contribution barring Islamabad.

Keen to block Indian initiatives at SAARC Pakistan wants secretariat's involvement, word from New Delhi

India's exports of sugar to Malaysia so far in 2020 have nearly tripled over the figure for all of last year, as Kuala Lumpur steps up purchases to placate New Delhi in a trade dispute that halted its palm oil exports to India, trade officials said.

The record buying could also help India, the world's biggest producer of sugar, to cut stockpiles that are squeezing domestic prices.

India had been the biggest buyer of Malaysian palm oil for five years, but purchases ground to a halt after the January curbs, a retaliation for then prime minister Mahathir Mohamad's criticism of New Delhi's policy regarding its Muslim minority.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indonesia-to-increase-imports-from-india-amid-new-delhi-malaysia-spat-report-276398">Indonesia to increase imports from India amid New Delhi-Malaysia spat: Report</a>

"This year Malaysia was aggressively buying Indian raw sugar, which was a pleasant surprise," Praful Vithalani, president of the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA), told Reuters.

The trade body's data shows Malaysia has imported 324,405 tonnes of sugar from India this year. That compares with India's exports last year of around 110,000 tonnes and a 2008 record of 313,406 tonnes, according to trade estimates. Malaysia imported a total of 1.95 million tonnes of raw sugar in 2019, data from the International Sugar Organization on Refinitiv Eikon shows. It typically buys more from Brazil and Thailand than from India.

Kuala Lumpur's sugar purchases from India could easily surpass 400,000 tonnes in 2020, as some shipments are still in the pipeline, said a Mumbai-based dealer of a global trading house.

Kuala Lumpur may have asked refiners to give preference to India in sugar purchases, said another Mumbai-based dealer, adding, "It's an effort to please India."

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/malaysia-offers-to-buy-more-imports-from-india-after-threat-of-palm-oil-curbs-256078">Malaysia offers to buy more imports from India after threat of palm oil curbs</a>

Both dealers sought anonymity as they were not allowed to speak with media.

In January, MSM Malaysia Holdings Berhad, the southeast Asian nation's top sugar refiner, said it would buy 130,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India, worth 200 million ringgit ($49.20 million), in the first quarter.

Malaysia has set itself a month's deadline to resolve the dispute over palm oil, its new Commodities Minister Mohd Khairuddin Aman Razali said on Wednesday, adding that he wanted to send a delegation to India as soon as possible.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/2nd-largest-sugar-producer-india-imposes-stock-limit-to-control-price-rise-prevent-black-marketing-14685/amp">2nd largest sugar producer India imposes stock limit to control price rise, prevent black-marketing</a>

"Malaysia can show that it is buying more goods from India than Indonesia," a Mumbai-based refiner said, adding that higher imports of farm commodities would give Malaysia grounds to argue in negotiations that New Delhi should resume palm oil purchases.

Indonesia is the world's biggest producer of palm oil, followed by Malaysia.

India, hoping to reduce its vast surplus stocks of sugar, has approved an export subsidy of 10,448 Indian rupees ($142) per tonne of the sweetener for the marketing year that will end on Sept. 30.

India's exports of sugar to Malaysia so far in 2020 have nearly tripled over the figure for all of last year, as Kuala Lumpur steps up purchases to placate New Delhi in a trade dispute that halted its palm oil exports to India, trade officials said.

India's exports of sugar to Malaysia so far in 2020 have nearly tripled over the figure for all of last year, as Kuala Lumpur steps up purchases to placate New Delhi in a trade dispute that halted its palm oil exports to India, trade officials said. The record buying could also help India, the world's biggest producer of sugar, to cut stockpiles that are squeezing domestic prices. India had been the biggest buyer of Malaysian palm oil for five years, but purchases ground to a halt after the January curbs, a retaliation for then prime minister Mahathir Mohamad's criticism of New Delhi's policy regarding its Muslim minority. Also Read: Indonesia to increase imports from India amid New Delhi-Malaysia spat: Report "This year Malaysia was aggressively buying Indian raw sugar, which was a pleasant surprise," Praful Vithalani, president of the All India Sugar Trade Association (AISTA), told Reuters. The trade body's data shows Malaysia has imported 324,405 tonnes of sugar from India this year. That compares with India's exports last year of around 110,000 tonnes and a 2008 record of 313,406 tonnes, according to trade estimates. Malaysia imported a total of 1.95 million tonnes of raw sugar in 2019, data from the International Sugar Organization on Refinitiv Eikon shows. It typically buys more from Brazil and Thailand than from India. Kuala Lumpur's sugar purchases from India could easily surpass 400,000 tonnes in 2020, as some shipments are still in the pipeline, said a Mumbai-based dealer of a global trading house. Kuala Lumpur may have asked refiners to give preference to India in sugar purchases, said another Mumbai-based dealer, adding, "It's an effort to please India." Also Read: Malaysia offers to buy more imports from India after threat of palm oil curbs Both dealers sought anonymity as they were not allowed to speak with media. In January, MSM Malaysia Holdings Berhad, the southeast Asian nation's top sugar refiner, said it would buy 130,000 tonnes of raw sugar from India, worth 200 million ringgit ($49.20 million), in the first quarter. Malaysia has set itself a month's deadline to resolve the dispute over palm oil, its new Commodities Minister Mohd Khairuddin Aman Razali said on Wednesday, adding that he wanted to send a delegation to India as soon as possible. Also Read: 2nd largest sugar producer India imposes stock limit to control price rise, prevent black-marketing "Malaysia can show that it is buying more goods from India than Indonesia," a Mumbai-based refiner said, adding that higher imports of farm commodities would give Malaysia grounds to argue in negotiations that New Delhi should resume palm oil purchases. Indonesia is the world's biggest producer of palm oil, followed by Malaysia. India, hoping to reduce its vast surplus stocks of sugar, has approved an export subsidy of 10,448 Indian rupees ($142) per tonne of the sweetener for the marketing year that will end on Sept. 30.

Malaysia's sugar purchases from India hit record amid diplomatic spat trade

Telecom major Bharti Airtel on Saturday said that it has deposited an additional Rs 8,004 crore towards adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues to the Department of Telecommunication (DoT), aggregating to a total payment of Rs 18,004 crore, and therefore complying with the Supreme Court judgment in the matter.

"The company has paid an additional amount of Rs 3,004 crore towards the full and final amounts due over and above the ad-hoc amount of Rs 10,000 crore paid on Feb 17, 2020, on behalf of the Bharti Group of Companies," said an official statement on Saturday.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bharti-airtel-can-pay-5-billion-agr-wont-affect-credit-quality-says-moodys-282927"> Bharti Airtel can pay $5 billion AGR, won't affect credit quality, says Moody's</a>

"In addition to the aforesaid amounts paid on the basis our self-assessment, we have also deposited an additional amount of Rs 5,000 crore as an ad-hoc payment (subject to subsequent refund/adjustment) to cover differences, if any, arising from the reconciliation exercise with the DoT," it added.

The telco said that in line with the AGR judgment and various directions issued by the DoT with respect to Spectrum Usage Charges, the company carried out self-assessment from FY 2006-07 onwards up to December 31, 2019, and interest thereon up to February 29, 2020.Airtel said that the company has now complied with the Supreme Court judgement dated October 24, 2019, which directed telecommunication companies to deposit the AGR dues summing up to Rs 1.47 lakh crore to the government within a period of three months.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/airtel-pays-statutory-dues-worth-rs10000-crore-after-supreme-courts-stern-orders-281089">Airtel pays statutory dues worth ₹10,000 crore after Supreme Court's stern orders</a>

Telecom major Bharti Airtel on Saturday said that it has deposited an additional Rs 8,004 crore towards adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues to the Department of Telecommunication (DoT), aggregating to a total payment of Rs 18,004 crore, and therefore complying with the Supreme Court judgment in the matter.

Telecom major Bharti Airtel on Saturday said that it has deposited an additional Rs 8,004 crore towards adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues to the Department of Telecommunication (DoT), aggregating to a total payment of Rs 18,004 crore, and therefore complying with the Supreme Court judgment in the matter. "The company has paid an additional amount of Rs 3,004 crore towards the full and final amounts due over and above the ad-hoc amount of Rs 10,000 crore paid on Feb 17, 2020, on behalf of the Bharti Group of Companies," said an official statement on Saturday. Also read: Bharti Airtel can pay $5 billion AGR, won't affect credit quality, says Moody's "In addition to the aforesaid amounts paid on the basis our self-assessment, we have also deposited an additional amount of Rs 5,000 crore as an ad-hoc payment (subject to subsequent refund/adjustment) to cover differences, if any, arising from the reconciliation exercise with the DoT," it added. The telco said that in line with the AGR judgment and various directions issued by the DoT with respect to Spectrum Usage Charges, the company carried out self-assessment from FY 2006-07 onwards up to December 31, 2019, and interest thereon up to February 29, 2020.Airtel said that the company has now complied with the Supreme Court judgement dated October 24, 2019, which directed telecommunication companies to deposit the AGR dues summing up to Rs 1.47 lakh crore to the government within a period of three months. Also see: Airtel pays statutory dues worth ₹10,000 crore after Supreme Court's stern orders

Airtel deposits another Rs 8,000 crore towards AGR dues in compliance with SC order

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria on Friday said that the government took a "tough and bold decision to strike at the heart of terrorist training camps deep inside Pakistan" and added that "the Indian Air Force struck the target successfully".

"A year ago, the government took a tough and bold decision to strike at the heart of terrorist training camps deep inside Pakistan across the Line of Control, IAF successfully struck the chosen target. Pakistan Air Force responded 30 hours later with a large package of aircraft under Operation Swift Retort, and IAF ensured they were not able to hit targets. They were in a hurry to disengage. They were doing it for their domestic audience," the IAF chief said at the Centre for Air Power Studies here.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-airstrike-anniversary-when-iaf-crossed-into-pakistan-and-bombed-jem-training-camps-282893"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-airstrike-anniversary-when-iaf-crossed-into-pakistan-and-bombed-jem-training-camps-282893">Balakot airstrike anniversary: When IAF crossed into Pakistan and bombed JeM training camps</a>

"We had an edge over Pakistan Air Force in terms of Beyond Visual Range Missile capability at the time of Kargil. We allowed that to slip and thereafter it took a decade and a half in our struggle to acquisition process to be able to get better capability," he added. 

The IAF chief said that better capability will soon materialise with the induction of Rafale."It (better capability) will soon materialize with the induction of Rafale. In air engagement, especially in a deeply contested area, it is important to have a weapon's edge. Once we retain this edge, it is important that we don't allow to slip back this edge," he said.

Also see:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/eye-on-china-how-iafs-sukhoi-fighters-with-brahmos-cruise-missiles-can-shift-balance-in-indian-ocean-region-275502"> Eye on China: How IAF's Sukhoi fighters with BrahMos cruise missiles can shift balance in Indian Ocean Region</a>

Earlier, while speaking to ANI, the IAF chief said that the message of the Balakot airstrike was clear that there will be a robust response to a terror attack from across the border.

"The message is clear that it will no longer be a status quo, if there is an attack orchestrated from across the border there will be a response and it will be a robust one," the Air Chief told ANI.The Chief of the Air Staff flew a sortie in MiG-21 of 51 Squadron with two Mirage-2000s and Sukhoi-30MKI from Srinagar airbase to mark the completion of one year of Balakot airstrikes.

Last year, the Indian Air Force had carried out airstrikes in Pakistan's Balakot, targetting Jaish-e-Muhammed's (JeM) terror training camps. The JeM had claimed responsibility for a deadly terror attack on February 14 in Pulwama, killing 40 CRPF personnel.

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria on Friday said that the government took a "tough and bold decision to strike at the heart of terrorist training camps deep inside Pakistan" and added that "the Indian Air Force struck the target successfully".

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria on Friday said that the government took a "tough and bold decision to strike at the heart of terrorist training camps deep inside Pakistan" and added that "the Indian Air Force struck the target successfully". "A year ago, the government took a tough and bold decision to strike at the heart of terrorist training camps deep inside Pakistan across the Line of Control, IAF successfully struck the chosen target. Pakistan Air Force responded 30 hours later with a large package of aircraft under Operation Swift Retort, and IAF ensured they were not able to hit targets. They were in a hurry to disengage. They were doing it for their domestic audience," the IAF chief said at the Centre for Air Power Studies here. Also Read: Balakot airstrike anniversary: When IAF crossed into Pakistan and bombed JeM training camps "We had an edge over Pakistan Air Force in terms of Beyond Visual Range Missile capability at the time of Kargil. We allowed that to slip and thereafter it took a decade and a half in our struggle to acquisition process to be able to get better capability," he added. The IAF chief said that better capability will soon materialise with the induction of Rafale."It (better capability) will soon materialize with the induction of Rafale. In air engagement, especially in a deeply contested area, it is important to have a weapon's edge. Once we retain this edge, it is important that we don't allow to slip back this edge," he said. Also see: Eye on China: How IAF's Sukhoi fighters with BrahMos cruise missiles can shift balance in Indian Ocean Region Earlier, while speaking to ANI, the IAF chief said that the message of the Balakot airstrike was clear that there will be a robust response to a terror attack from across the border. "The message is clear that it will no longer be a status quo, if there is an attack orchestrated from across the border there will be a response and it will be a robust one," the Air Chief told ANI.The Chief of the Air Staff flew a sortie in MiG-21 of 51 Squadron with two Mirage-2000s and Sukhoi-30MKI from Srinagar airbase to mark the completion of one year of Balakot airstrikes. Last year, the Indian Air Force had carried out airstrikes in Pakistan's Balakot, targetting Jaish-e-Muhammed's (JeM) terror training camps. The JeM had claimed responsibility for a deadly terror attack on February 14 in Pulwama, killing 40 CRPF personnel.

Government took tough and bold decision: Air Chief on Balakot Airstrike

Ranked: 14 Indian cities among world's most polluted - Is your city in the list?

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived in India on a five-day visit on Friday.&nbsp;

Rajapaksa was received by Union Minister Sanjay Dhotre upon his arrival at the Delhi airport.&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan leader will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind during his stay in New Delhi on Saturday.

Other engagements of the day include his visit to the Rajghat — where he will lay a wreath at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi — and a meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.&nbsp;

Rajapaksa will leave for Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday where he will visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sarnath Buddhist Temple.&nbsp;

Security has been beefed up in Varanasi ahead of Rajapaksa's visit.&nbsp;

On the morning of February 10, Rajapaksa will emplane for Bodh Gaya in Bihar — where he will visit Mahabodhi Temple and Bodh Gaya Centre — and later in the day to Tirupati, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived in India on a five-day visit on Friday. Rajapaksa was received by Union Minister Sanjay Dhotre upon his arrival at the Delhi airport.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived in India on a five-day visit on Friday. Rajapaksa was received by Union Minister Sanjay Dhotre upon his arrival at the Delhi airport. The Sri Lankan leader will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind during his stay in New Delhi on Saturday. Other engagements of the day include his visit to the Rajghat — where he will lay a wreath at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi — and a meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Rajapaksa will leave for Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday where he will visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sarnath Buddhist Temple. Security has been beefed up in Varanasi ahead of Rajapaksa's visit. On the morning of February 10, Rajapaksa will emplane for Bodh Gaya in Bihar — where he will visit Mahabodhi Temple and Bodh Gaya Centre — and later in the day to Tirupati, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa arrives in New Delhi on a 5-day state visit

European Union Parliament has decided to postpone the vote on a draft resolution on Citizenship amendment law to last week of March, which the March II Part session on March 30-31st.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-should-abandon-their-double-standards-china-slams-eurpopean-union-parliament-over-uighur-sanctions-resolution-269347">Also read: 'EU should abandon their double standards' — China slams European Union Parliament over &nbsp;Uighur sanctions resolution</a>

The European People's Party group or EPP group in a move called for the delaying the vote. The move was voted on and passed with 271 in favour, 199 against and 13 abstentions.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-defers-anti-caa-resolution-vote-relief-for-modi-govt-277447/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Government sources welcomed the development and said, "Friends of India prevailed over the Friends of Pakistan in the European Parliament today."

Explaining, "CAA is a matter internal to India and has been adopted through a due process through democratic means. We expect that our perspectives in this matter will be understood by all objective and fair-minded MEPs."

Interestingly, Shaffaq Mohammad, the Pakistan origin British MEP looked disappointed. Shaffaq has just 2 days more left as MEP since on Friday the UK leaves the European Union and with that, he will too have to leave the EU Parliament.

Indian govt sources told WION, "Strenuous efforts of outgoing British MEP, Shaffaq Mohammad to have a Resolution passed by the European Parliament against India on the penultimate day before Brexit was defeated."

Voting on the resolution will now take place post 13th March, the day when PM Modi visits Brussels for the India EU summit.&nbsp;

The EU has already distanced itself from the developments in the EU Parliament on the 6 draft resolution on Kashmir/CAA.

EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, told WION, "Opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its members do not represent the official position of the European Union."

European Union Parliament has decided to postpone the vote on a draft resolution on Citizenship amendment law to last week of March, which the March II Part session on March 30-31st.

European Union Parliament has decided to postpone the vote on a draft resolution on Citizenship amendment law to last week of March, which the March II Part session on March 30-31st. Also read: 'EU should abandon their double standards' — China slams European Union Parliament over Uighur sanctions resolution The European People's Party group or EPP group in a move called for the delaying the vote. The move was voted on and passed with 271 in favour, 199 against and 13 abstentions. Government sources welcomed the development and said, "Friends of India prevailed over the Friends of Pakistan in the European Parliament today." Explaining, "CAA is a matter internal to India and has been adopted through a due process through democratic means. We expect that our perspectives in this matter will be understood by all objective and fair-minded MEPs." Interestingly, Shaffaq Mohammad, the Pakistan origin British MEP looked disappointed. Shaffaq has just 2 days more left as MEP since on Friday the UK leaves the European Union and with that, he will too have to leave the EU Parliament. Indian govt sources told WION, "Strenuous efforts of outgoing British MEP, Shaffaq Mohammad to have a Resolution passed by the European Parliament against India on the penultimate day before Brexit was defeated." Voting on the resolution will now take place post 13th March, the day when PM Modi visits Brussels for the India EU summit. The EU has already distanced itself from the developments in the EU Parliament on the 6 draft resolution on Kashmir/CAA. EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, told WION, "Opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its members do not represent the official position of the European Union."

Pakistan snubbed again: Vote on CAA resolution delayed in European Union Parliament; New Delhi lauds friends of India

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/after-pm-narendra-modi-rajinikanth-to-feature-in-man-vs-wild-with-bear-grylls-277041">Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday addressed a National Cadet Corps rally in New Delhi and outlined the contribution of youth towards taking the country on the path of development.

"A country where youth is disciplined has willpower and determination, it can never be stopped on its path to development. India has a young population, we're proud of it but the thinking of the country should be young too", Modi said while addressing the young cadets of NCC.

He also stated that the youth of the country is striving for a change and is not ready to fall prey to old problems.

"India's youth is getting restless with no change. It wants change, that hasn't happened in 70 years since Independence. It is not ready to fall prey to these old problems", he said.

Ahead of his address to cadets at Cariappa Parade ground here, Modi inspected the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indias-military-strength-cultural-diversity-at-display-during-71st-republic-day-parade-276642">National Cadet Corps</a> parade. He also presented the awards to meritorious cadets.

Marching contingents from Bhutan, Russia, and Nepal also took part in the National Cadet Corps parade in New Delhi.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed a National Cadet Corps rally in New Delhi and outlined the contribution of youth towards taking the country on the path of development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed a National Cadet Corps rally in New Delhi and outlined the contribution of youth towards taking the country on the path of development. "A country where youth is disciplined has willpower and determination, it can never be stopped on its path to development. India has a young population, we're proud of it but the thinking of the country should be young too", Modi said while addressing the young cadets of NCC. He also stated that the youth of the country is striving for a change and is not ready to fall prey to old problems. "India's youth is getting restless with no change. It wants change, that hasn't happened in 70 years since Independence. It is not ready to fall prey to these old problems", he said. Ahead of his address to cadets at Cariappa Parade ground here, Modi inspected the National Cadet Corps parade. He also presented the awards to meritorious cadets. Marching contingents from Bhutan, Russia, and Nepal also took part in the National Cadet Corps parade in New Delhi.

Country with disciplined, determined youth can't be stopped on development path: PM Modi

Referring to border issues, the Nepal government said that there will be no problem to resolve matters with India, sources said on Saturday.

"Sometimes, some issues are unresolved. We should not keep in mind and not speak. We can discuss openly including border issues. We are developing friendly ties. There will be no problem to resolve issues with India," Nepal government sources told ANI.

This comes a day after Nepali Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali said he is optimistic that the lingering territorial issues will be resolved by the two countries through the "diplomatic process".

Speaking to ANI, Gyawali said that New Delhi and Kathmandu are preparing a mechanism to resolve the issue.Nepal had raised objections over the inclusion of Limpiyadhura, Lipulek, and Kalapani areas under India's territory in a fresh map released by the Centre following the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into Union Territories.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-urges-india-to-reconsider-palm-oil-import-ban-276463">Nepal finance minister urges India to reconsider palm oil import ban</a>

India, on its part, said that the map accurately depicts its sovereign territory and that it did not revise its boundary with Nepal in any manner.

The valley of Kalapani, with the Lipulekh Pass at the top, forms the Indian route to Kailash Manasarovar, an ancient pilgrimage site.

The territory is also the traditional trading route to Tibet for the Bhotiyas of Uttarakhand.

After India closed the Lipulekh Pass in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, much of the Bhotiya trade used to pass through the Tinkar Pass.

The Nepalese protests regarding the Kalapani territory started in 1997 after India and China agreed to reopen the Lipulekh Pass.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Referring to border issues, the Nepal government said that there will be no problem to resolve matters with India, sources said on Saturday. "Sometimes, some issues are unresolved.

Referring to border issues, the Nepal government said that there will be no problem to resolve matters with India, sources said on Saturday. "Sometimes, some issues are unresolved. We should not keep in mind and not speak. We can discuss openly including border issues. We are developing friendly ties. There will be no problem to resolve issues with India," Nepal government sources told ANI. This comes a day after Nepali Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali said he is optimistic that the lingering territorial issues will be resolved by the two countries through the "diplomatic process". Speaking to ANI, Gyawali said that New Delhi and Kathmandu are preparing a mechanism to resolve the issue.Nepal had raised objections over the inclusion of Limpiyadhura, Lipulek, and Kalapani areas under India's territory in a fresh map released by the Centre following the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into Union Territories. Also read: Nepal finance minister urges India to reconsider palm oil import ban India, on its part, said that the map accurately depicts its sovereign territory and that it did not revise its boundary with Nepal in any manner. The valley of Kalapani, with the Lipulekh Pass at the top, forms the Indian route to Kailash Manasarovar, an ancient pilgrimage site. The territory is also the traditional trading route to Tibet for the Bhotiyas of Uttarakhand. After India closed the Lipulekh Pass in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, much of the Bhotiya trade used to pass through the Tinkar Pass. The Nepalese protests regarding the Kalapani territory started in 1997 after India and China agreed to reopen the Lipulekh Pass.

No problem in resolving border issues with India: Nepal

The United States wants India to buy at least another $5-6 billion worth of American poultry and farm goods if New Delhi wants to win reinstatement of a key US&nbsp;trade concession, four sources familiar with the talks told Reuters.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump cited trade barriers last year when removing India from its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed zero tariffs on $5.6 billion of exports to the United States. In retaliation, India slapped higher tariffs on more than two dozens US&nbsp;products.

Ahead of a Trump visit to New Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi next month, negotiators on both sides are hammering out terms for a trade deal that would include New Delhi rolling back higher tariffs on some farm goods such as almonds, walnuts and apples, one of the sources said.

Both governments had hoped to work out a limited trade deal last year, but struggled to reach an agreement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-china-trade-deal-what-were-the-key-issues-and-are-they-resolved-275073">US-China trade deal - What were the key issues and are they resolved?</a>

India's commerce ministry and the US&nbsp;Embassy in New Delhi did not respond to a request for comment. The office of the US&nbsp;Trade Representative did not immediately respond outside regular business hours.

While India has offered a partial relief on medical device price caps that have hurt American pharma giants and a rollback in tariffs on some US&nbsp;goods, Trump's team wants a sweetener of $5-6 billion in additional trade for US&nbsp;goods to restore GSP privileges, three of the sources said.

That demand was conveyed by the United States to India in late December, said two sources.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-markets-scale-a-new-high-after-us-china-phase-one-trade-deal-274665">US-China trade deal - Hits and misses for India</a>

As part of the negotiation, the US&nbsp;wants India to increase imports of frozen poultry products, the first source said. The US&nbsp;has already been pushing India to cut the high import taxes on poultry products.

"The deal has to be agriculture-focused, the US&nbsp;is putting a number on everything (if India wants GSP back)," said one of the sources.

The sources asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the discussions.

Other than the agriculture sector, the United States could be swayed if some of that additional revenue goes to its energy sector, said one of the sources.

Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan this week said India was looking forward to extending its energy cooperation with the United States and other countries but didn't disclose any planned deals.

Trump is likely to visit India in late February, in what would be his first visit to the South Asian nation since he took office three years ago.

The United States wants India to buy at least another $5-6 billion worth of American poultry and farm goods if New Delhi wants to win reinstatement of a key US trade concession, four sources familiar with the talks told Reuters.

The United States wants India to buy at least another $5-6 billion worth of American poultry and farm goods if New Delhi wants to win reinstatement of a key US trade concession, four sources familiar with the talks told Reuters. US President Donald Trump cited trade barriers last year when removing India from its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed zero tariffs on $5.6 billion of exports to the United States. In retaliation, India slapped higher tariffs on more than two dozens US products. Ahead of a Trump visit to New Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi next month, negotiators on both sides are hammering out terms for a trade deal that would include New Delhi rolling back higher tariffs on some farm goods such as almonds, walnuts and apples, one of the sources said. Both governments had hoped to work out a limited trade deal last year, but struggled to reach an agreement. Also read: US-China trade deal - What were the key issues and are they resolved? India's commerce ministry and the US Embassy in New Delhi did not respond to a request for comment. The office of the US Trade Representative did not immediately respond outside regular business hours. While India has offered a partial relief on medical device price caps that have hurt American pharma giants and a rollback in tariffs on some US goods, Trump's team wants a sweetener of $5-6 billion in additional trade for US goods to restore GSP privileges, three of the sources said. That demand was conveyed by the United States to India in late December, said two sources. Also read: US-China trade deal - Hits and misses for India As part of the negotiation, the US wants India to increase imports of frozen poultry products, the first source said. The US has already been pushing India to cut the high import taxes on poultry products. "The deal has to be agriculture-focused, the US is putting a number on everything (if India wants GSP back)," said one of the sources. The sources asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the discussions. Other than the agriculture sector, the United States could be swayed if some of that additional revenue goes to its energy sector, said one of the sources. Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan this week said India was looking forward to extending its energy cooperation with the United States and other countries but didn't disclose any planned deals. Trump is likely to visit India in late February, in what would be his first visit to the South Asian nation since he took office three years ago.

US pushes India to buy $5-6 billion more farm goods to seal trade deal: Report

Thousands of tonnes of&nbsp;refined&nbsp;palm&nbsp;oil&nbsp;are delayed or&nbsp;stuck&nbsp;at various&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;ports&nbsp;after&nbsp;the world's biggest edible&nbsp;oil&nbsp;buyer placed restrictions on imports&nbsp;amid a diplomatic row with key supplier Malaysia, multiple&nbsp;sources&nbsp;told Reuters.

India announced the&nbsp;curbs&nbsp;on imports&nbsp;of&nbsp;refined&nbsp;palm&nbsp;oil&nbsp;on January&nbsp;8 in a bid to help domestic refiners raise their plant utilisation rates, according to industry officials familiar with the matter. In a typical year, India relies on imports&nbsp;for almost all of its supply of the vegoil&nbsp;used in everything from soap to cookies.

But Malaysia, the world's second-biggest producer and exporter of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-from-malaysia-following-pm-mahathir-mohamad-caa-remark-273134">palm&nbsp;oil</a>, has publicly bridled at New Delhi's move even as India has stepped up orders from Indonesia, according to Refinitiv data. India has been its biggest market for the last five years, and the row sent benchmark Malaysian&nbsp;palm&nbsp;futures to their worst weekly fall in more than 11 years on Friday.

"More than 30,000 tonnes have been&nbsp;stuck&nbsp;at various (Indian)&nbsp;ports. All these vessels were loaded before the government restricted imports&nbsp;of&nbsp;refined&nbsp;palm&nbsp;oil," said a Mumbai-based vegetable&nbsp;oil&nbsp;dealer, who declined to be named citing company policy.

"Usually customs officials allow unloading of commodities that are in transit before any change in regulation. But in the case of&nbsp;refined&nbsp;palm&nbsp;oil, there is some confusion and that is leading to delays."

A source in New Delhi with direct knowledge of the matter said the restrictions mean&nbsp;importers will need a license to buy, a tool that could be used to deny or delay shipments from Malaysia. The person declined to be identified citing the sensitivity of the matter.

Another vegetable&nbsp;oil&nbsp;importer said some vessels were&nbsp;stuck&nbsp;at Kolkata port in eastern India, with some others on the west coast. In one incident at Mangalore port on the west coast, crude&nbsp;palm&nbsp;oil&nbsp;was unloaded from a vessel, while&nbsp;refined&nbsp;oil&nbsp;was not permitted ashore, said the&nbsp;importer, who also declined to be named citing the sensitive nature of the situation.

Reuters could not ascertain which vessels contained the&nbsp;cargoes&nbsp;that have been held up at Kolkata and Mangalore, nor who the buyers were. A source in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-palm-import-curbs-to-start-malaysia-indonesia-price-war-souces-273149">Kuala Lumpur</a>, who requested anonymity citing the sensitivity of the matter, said the&nbsp;refined&nbsp;palm&nbsp;oil&nbsp;was from both Indonesia and Malaysia.

Officials at Kolkata and Mangalore&nbsp;ports&nbsp;did not immediately respond&nbsp;to an&nbsp;email&nbsp;seeking comment.

Malaysia's Sime Darby Plantation, the world's largest&nbsp;oil&nbsp;palm&nbsp;planter by land size, said none of its&nbsp;refined&nbsp;palm&nbsp;oil&nbsp;was&nbsp;stuck&nbsp;at&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;ports. The company, which has operations in both Malaysia and Indonesia, exported more than 436,000 tonnes of&nbsp;refined&nbsp;palm&nbsp;oil&nbsp;to India last year.

Sudhakar Desai, president of&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;Vegetable&nbsp;Oil&nbsp;Producers' Association, said&nbsp;refined&nbsp;palm&nbsp;cargoes&nbsp;that reached before the restrictions were placed had been cleared but none&nbsp;after&nbsp;that.

"We don't think any licenses have been issued for any origin," Desai said.

A spokeswoman for India's trade ministry did not immediately respond to an email from Reuters seeking comment.

Thousands of tonnes of refined palm oil are delayed or stuck at various Indian ports after the world's biggest edible oil buyer placed restrictions on imports amid a diplomatic row with key supplier Malaysia, multiple sources told Reuters.

Thousands of tonnes of refined palm oil are delayed or stuck at various Indian ports after the world's biggest edible oil buyer placed restrictions on imports amid a diplomatic row with key supplier Malaysia, multiple sources told Reuters. India announced the curbs on imports of refined palm oil on January 8 in a bid to help domestic refiners raise their plant utilisation rates, according to industry officials familiar with the matter. In a typical year, India relies on imports for almost all of its supply of the vegoil used in everything from soap to cookies. But Malaysia, the world's second-biggest producer and exporter of palm oil, has publicly bridled at New Delhi's move even as India has stepped up orders from Indonesia, according to Refinitiv data. India has been its biggest market for the last five years, and the row sent benchmark Malaysian palm futures to their worst weekly fall in more than 11 years on Friday. "More than 30,000 tonnes have been stuck at various (Indian) ports. All these vessels were loaded before the government restricted imports of refined palm oil," said a Mumbai-based vegetable oil dealer, who declined to be named citing company policy. "Usually customs officials allow unloading of commodities that are in transit before any change in regulation. But in the case of refined palm oil, there is some confusion and that is leading to delays." A source in New Delhi with direct knowledge of the matter said the restrictions mean importers will need a license to buy, a tool that could be used to deny or delay shipments from Malaysia. The person declined to be identified citing the sensitivity of the matter. Another vegetable oil importer said some vessels were stuck at Kolkata port in eastern India, with some others on the west coast. In one incident at Mangalore port on the west coast, crude palm oil was unloaded from a vessel, while refined oil was not permitted ashore, said the importer, who also declined to be named citing the sensitive nature of the situation. Reuters could not ascertain which vessels contained the cargoes that have been held up at Kolkata and Mangalore, nor who the buyers were. A source in Kuala Lumpur, who requested anonymity citing the sensitivity of the matter, said the refined palm oil was from both Indonesia and Malaysia. Officials at Kolkata and Mangalore ports did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. Malaysia's Sime Darby Plantation, the world's largest oil palm planter by land size, said none of its refined palm oil was stuck at Indian ports. The company, which has operations in both Malaysia and Indonesia, exported more than 436,000 tonnes of refined palm oil to India last year. Sudhakar Desai, president of Indian Vegetable Oil Producers' Association, said refined palm cargoes that reached before the restrictions were placed had been cleared but none after that. "We don't think any licenses have been issued for any origin," Desai said. A spokeswoman for India's trade ministry did not immediately respond to an email from Reuters seeking comment.

Refined palm oil cargoes stuck at Indian ports after import curbs: Sources

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions.&nbsp;

Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay&nbsp;Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned... we have never been in favour of bringing this issue to the United Nation's agenda because this is strictly a bilateral matter for India and Pakistan to discuss on the basis of Shimla and Lahore. Not much to discuss under the aegis of United Nations Security Council".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-is-china-the-only-thorn-in-india-russia-ties-274835">Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties?</a>

The comments come days after China, at the behest of Pakistan, raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal meet at the United Nations Security Council. The meet saw no takers and ended without any outcome.&nbsp;

On the visit of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month, Kudashev said he doesn't "feel the reason to travel" as "Kashmir is India's internal matter" and belongs to India's "constitutional space".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-ties-with-new-delhi-second-to-none-russian-envoy-to-india-273759">Our ties with New Delhi second to none - Russian envoy to India</a>

"Those who believe that it is an issue and doubt Indian polices in Kashmir can travel", Kudashev said.&nbsp;

The Russian mission has confirmed to WION that it won't be requesting Indian government to be part of any future foreign envoys visit. According to government sources, the visit that happened in early January was at the request of various missions.&nbsp;

"If you invite me... I will go as a friend," the envoy responded when asked if the Indian government invites him for a visit.&nbsp;

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions. Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned.

In major support for New Delhi, Moscow has said that it never favours Kashmir being brought to the United Nations for any discussions. Responding to questions at a press conference in Delhi, Russian Envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev said, "As far as the discussions at the United Nations Security Council are concerned... we have never been in favour of bringing this issue to the United Nation's agenda because this is strictly a bilateral matter for India and Pakistan to discuss on the basis of Shimla and Lahore. Not much to discuss under the aegis of United Nations Security Council". Also read: Is China the only thorn in India-Russia ties? The comments come days after China, at the behest of Pakistan, raised Kashmir at a closed-door informal meet at the United Nations Security Council. The meet saw no takers and ended without any outcome. On the visit of foreign envoys to Jammu and Kashmir earlier this month, Kudashev said he doesn't "feel the reason to travel" as "Kashmir is India's internal matter" and belongs to India's "constitutional space". Also read: Our ties with New Delhi second to none - Russian envoy to India "Those who believe that it is an issue and doubt Indian polices in Kashmir can travel", Kudashev said. The Russian mission has confirmed to WION that it won't be requesting Indian government to be part of any future foreign envoys visit. According to government sources, the visit that happened in early January was at the request of various missions. "If you invite me... I will go as a friend," the envoy responded when asked if the Indian government invites him for a visit.

Russia supports India, says Moscow isn't in favour of Kashmir being discussed at United Nations 

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

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

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

The air quality in the national capital on Monday plunged to the '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-remains-poor-in-delhi-273172">very poor</a>' category, and light rains are likely to hit the city today. 
 
According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall AQI docked at 356 at 9 am, which falls in the 'very poor' category. 
 
At Chandni Chowk, the AQI was recorded at 321, 355 in Lodhi Road, 346 in IGI airport and 331 in IIT Delhi. 
 
An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous. 
 
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-trains-running-late-due-to-low-visibility-in-the-northern-railway-region-272007">India Meteorological Department</a> (IMD) has forecast a generally cloudy sky with the possibility of light rain with maximum and minimum temperatures at 23 and 9 degrees Celsius, respectively.

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Weather Warning and Rainfall Forecast video based on 0830 hours IST of 13.01.2020 <a href="https://t.co/vae7pgjyJa">pic.twitter.com/vae7pgjyJa</a>
— India Met. Dept. (@Indiametdept) <a href="https://twitter.com/Indiametdept/status/1216613497267580929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, the maximum and minimum temperatures in the national capital were recorded at 24.3 and 7.1 degrees Celsius respectively. 
 
"Scattered to fairly widespread rain or thunderstorm with isolated heavy falls accompanied with hail or lightning also likely over north Punjab, north Haryana and northwest Uttar Pradesh on Monday," the IMD said in its bulletin. 
 
A fresh western disturbance in quick succession is also very likely to affect the Western Himalayan region and plains of northwest India from January 15 onwards with a peak intensity of precipitation on January 16, the weather agency added. 
 
As many as 15 trains are running late due to low visibility in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/19-trains-running-late-due-to-low-visibility-in-northern-railway-region-271802">Northern Railway</a> region.

The air quality in the national capital on Monday plunged to the 'very poor' category, and light rains are likely to hit the city today. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall AQI docked at 356 at 9 am, which falls in the 'very poor' category.

The air quality in the national capital on Monday plunged to the 'very poor' category, and light rains are likely to hit the city today. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall AQI docked at 356 at 9 am, which falls in the 'very poor' category. At Chandni Chowk, the AQI was recorded at 321, 355 in Lodhi Road, 346 in IGI airport and 331 in IIT Delhi. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a generally cloudy sky with the possibility of light rain with maximum and minimum temperatures at 23 and 9 degrees Celsius, respectively. Weather Warning and Rainfall Forecast video based on 0830 hours IST of 13.01.2020 pic.twitter.com/vae7pgjyJa — India Met. Dept. (@Indiametdept) January 13, 2020 × On Sunday, the maximum and minimum temperatures in the national capital were recorded at 24.3 and 7.1 degrees Celsius respectively. "Scattered to fairly widespread rain or thunderstorm with isolated heavy falls accompanied with hail or lightning also likely over north Punjab, north Haryana and northwest Uttar Pradesh on Monday," the IMD said in its bulletin. A fresh western disturbance in quick succession is also very likely to affect the Western Himalayan region and plains of northwest India from January 15 onwards with a peak intensity of precipitation on January 16, the weather agency added. As many as 15 trains are running late due to low visibility in the Northern Railway region.

Delhi: Air quality plunges to 'very poor' category, light rains expected today

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Union Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mukhtar-abbas-naqvi-those-abusing-pm-narendra-modi-now-insulting-security-forces-205047">Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi</a> said here on Thursday that politicians who have always kept their personal interests above that of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-over-2000-youth-participate-on-day-1-of-indian-army-recruitment-drive-255496">Jammu and Kashmir</a> have been sidelined and now there is a corruption-free environment in J&amp;K.

"It is good that Jammu and Kashmir is moving towards development. Corruption had hampered development in Kashmir in past. Jammu and Kashmir has a corruption-free environment now. Politicians who used to keep personal interest over Kashmir's interest are now sidelined," Naqvi told ANI.

Speaking on the students' protest in various universities across the country including Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Naqvi said,&nbsp;"We all were students. They can protest but they should have a solid issue and not fabricated issues. It is our constitutional and social responsibility to tell them that they are misguided. Lies will soon be defeated by truth."

A group of around 15 foreign envoys based in New Delhi will be taken to Jammu and Kashmir on January 9-10 to see first-hand the efforts being made by the Government in the region.

The decision was taken after some envoys based in the national capital requested to visit the region.

Sources said that accordingly, a group of around 15 envoys from the United States, Maldives, Norway, Argentina, Niger, Togo, Vietnam, Bangladesh, South Korea, Peru, Morocco, among others who are based in Delhi, are being taken to the Union Territory.

They will meet civil society leaders and will be briefed on the security situation by the Army and intelligence services.

Last year a delegation comprising members of the European Parliament had visited the Valley after the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution which accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said here on Thursday that politicians who have always kept their personal interests above that of Jammu and Kashmir have been sidelined and now there is a corruption-free environment in J&K.

Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said here on Thursday that politicians who have always kept their personal interests above that of Jammu and Kashmir have been sidelined and now there is a corruption-free environment in J&K. "It is good that Jammu and Kashmir is moving towards development. Corruption had hampered development in Kashmir in past. Jammu and Kashmir has a corruption-free environment now. Politicians who used to keep personal interest over Kashmir's interest are now sidelined," Naqvi told ANI. Speaking on the students' protest in various universities across the country including Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Naqvi said, "We all were students. They can protest but they should have a solid issue and not fabricated issues. It is our constitutional and social responsibility to tell them that they are misguided. Lies will soon be defeated by truth." A group of around 15 foreign envoys based in New Delhi will be taken to Jammu and Kashmir on January 9-10 to see first-hand the efforts being made by the Government in the region. The decision was taken after some envoys based in the national capital requested to visit the region. Sources said that accordingly, a group of around 15 envoys from the United States, Maldives, Norway, Argentina, Niger, Togo, Vietnam, Bangladesh, South Korea, Peru, Morocco, among others who are based in Delhi, are being taken to the Union Territory. They will meet civil society leaders and will be briefed on the security situation by the Army and intelligence services. Last year a delegation comprising members of the European Parliament had visited the Valley after the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution which accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu & Kashmir is now corruption free: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

The air quality of Delhi remained 'poor' on Sunday with the overall <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-quality-remains-in-poor-category-aqi-likely-to-deteriorate-tomorrow-265679">Air Quality Index</a> (AQI) recorded at 211, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

According to the data compiled by SAFAR, major pollutants i.e. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-takes-a-hit-particulate-matter-level-shoots-up-255194">Particulate Matter</a> (PM) 2.5 was at 136 and PM 10 at 94, both in the 'poor' category in the capital area at 10:30 in the morning.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-improves-slightly-in-delhi-safar-says-relief-temporary-263072">SAFAR</a> has advised 'sensitive groups' to avoid all outdoor physical activities.

"People are advised to stop outdoor activity in the early morning and after sunset times and avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Go for a short walk instead of a jog and take more breaks. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. If the room has windows, close them," it stated in its advisory.

The air quality of Delhi remained 'poor' on Sunday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 211, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The air quality of Delhi remained 'poor' on Sunday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 211, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). According to the data compiled by SAFAR, major pollutants i.e. Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 was at 136 and PM 10 at 94, both in the 'poor' category in the capital area at 10:30 in the morning. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. The SAFAR has advised 'sensitive groups' to avoid all outdoor physical activities. "People are advised to stop outdoor activity in the early morning and after sunset times and avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Go for a short walk instead of a jog and take more breaks. Stop any activity level if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. If the room has windows, close them," it stated in its advisory.

Air quality remains 'poor' in Delhi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-protests-in-parliament-demands-inclusion-of-bill-on-unauthorised-colonies-in-winter-session-263360">Aam Aadmi Party</a> (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-praises-centre-for-developing-peripheral-expressways-to-curb-pollution-268220">Arvind Kejriwal</a> will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday.

The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony but on behalf of him, party MP Sanjay Singh will attend the ceremony today.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Soren will take oath as 11th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-jharkhands-new-chief-minister-hemant-soren-269825">Chief Minister of Jharkhand</a> in Ranchi today at Morabadi Ground at 2 pm.

Meanwhile, Chief Ministers of as many as five states have confirmed their presence. West Bengal Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kolkata-mamata-leads-another-anti-caa-march-tells-students-to-continue-their-protest-270362">Mamata Banerjee</a>, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray are likely to attend the ceremony.

The other leaders who are likely to be present on the occasion include HD Kumaraswamy, KC Venugopal, N Chandrababu Naidu, Harish Rawat, DMK MP Kanimozhi, TR Balu, Sharad Yadav, and Ahmed Patel.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not be attending the swearing-in ceremony of Hemant Soren as Jharkhand Chief Minister on Sunday. The chief minister has been invited for the ceremony but on behalf of him, party MP Sanjay Singh will attend the ceremony today. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leader Soren will take oath as 11th Chief Minister of Jharkhand in Ranchi today at Morabadi Ground at 2 pm. Meanwhile, Chief Ministers of as many as five states have confirmed their presence. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray are likely to attend the ceremony. The other leaders who are likely to be present on the occasion include HD Kumaraswamy, KC Venugopal, N Chandrababu Naidu, Harish Rawat, DMK MP Kanimozhi, TR Balu, Sharad Yadav, and Ahmed Patel.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal not to attend Hemant Soren's swearing in ceremony

Biting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cold-wave-continues-to-grip-delhi-as-mercury-dips-to-58-degree-celsius-270379">cold wave persists</a> in northern states of the country as the mercury continued its downward trend on Friday.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cold day to severe cold day conditions in many pockets is very likely over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-previous-government-thought-about-people-living-in-delhis-unauthorised-colonies-amit-shah-270413">Delhi</a> and Uttar Pradesh.

"Cold day conditions at isolated pockets are also very likely to persist over Madhya Pradesh and Bihar during the next two days," the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

"Dense fog is very likely to engulf Uttar Pradesh, some pockets over Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and also a few parts of north Rajasthan."

According to the weatherman, a fresh Western Disturbance is very likely to affect the Western Himalayan region from December 30 night onwards.

"Under the influence of this Western Disturbance and its interaction with lower-level easterlies, major parts of Northwest and Central India are very likely to experience fairly widespread to widespread rainfall accompanied with hailstorm at isolated places during December 31, 2019- January 1, 2020, and over East India on January 2, 2020."

Biting cold wave persists in northern states of the country as the mercury continued its downward trend on Friday. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cold day to severe cold day conditions in many pockets is very likely over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.

Biting cold wave persists in northern states of the country as the mercury continued its downward trend on Friday. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cold day to severe cold day conditions in many pockets is very likely over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. "Cold day conditions at isolated pockets are also very likely to persist over Madhya Pradesh and Bihar during the next two days," the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. "Dense fog is very likely to engulf Uttar Pradesh, some pockets over Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and also a few parts of north Rajasthan." According to the weatherman, a fresh Western Disturbance is very likely to affect the Western Himalayan region from December 30 night onwards. "Under the influence of this Western Disturbance and its interaction with lower-level easterlies, major parts of Northwest and Central India are very likely to experience fairly widespread to widespread rainfall accompanied with hailstorm at isolated places during December 31, 2019- January 1, 2020, and over East India on January 2, 2020."

Unabated cold wave grips northern India

Security was beefed up and patrolling has been intensified across north-east Delhi to avoid any untoward incident ahead or after the Friday prayers.

The precautions have been taken after a massive protest had broken out in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/daryaganj-violence-court-dismisses-bail-plea-of-fifteen-accused-269738">Jama Masjid area</a> in Delhi against the newly-enacted citizenship law last week following the Friday prayers.

Police personnel and paramilitary forces were deployed across north-east Delhi in view of the Friday prayers.

"In view of Friday prayers, we have deployed appropriate forces in the region. Around 15 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed. Police personnel are also deployed in sensitive areas," Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Prakash Surya told ANI.

The DCP said that flag marches will also be conducted in Seelampur, Jazfarabad, Mushtafabad and Welcome area.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Massive protests erupts in Delhi's Jama Masjid over CAA

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"Members of the Aman Committee are also with us. They are urging people to maintain law and order in the city," Surya added.

The Delhi Police had arrested 14 people at the protest on December 17. Subsequently, the court sent them to 14-days judicial custody.

The protesters had allegedly pelted stones at policemen and vandalised three buses during the protest.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-caa-protests-317-arrested-over-70-cases-registered-in-up-for-violence-270471">Major protests</a> have been held across the country against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Security was beefed up and patrolling has been intensified across north-east Delhi to avoid any untoward incident ahead or after the Friday prayers. The precautions have been taken after a massive protest had broken out in Jama Masjid area in Delhi against the newly-enacted citizenship law last week following the Friday prayers.

Security was beefed up and patrolling has been intensified across north-east Delhi to avoid any untoward incident ahead or after the Friday prayers. The precautions have been taken after a massive protest had broken out in Jama Masjid area in Delhi against the newly-enacted citizenship law last week following the Friday prayers. Police personnel and paramilitary forces were deployed across north-east Delhi in view of the Friday prayers. "In view of Friday prayers, we have deployed appropriate forces in the region. Around 15 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed. Police personnel are also deployed in sensitive areas," Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Prakash Surya told ANI. The DCP said that flag marches will also be conducted in Seelampur, Jazfarabad, Mushtafabad and Welcome area. Also Watch: Massive protests erupts in Delhi's Jama Masjid over CAA × "Members of the Aman Committee are also with us. They are urging people to maintain law and order in the city," Surya added. The Delhi Police had arrested 14 people at the protest on December 17. Subsequently, the court sent them to 14-days judicial custody. The protesters had allegedly pelted stones at policemen and vandalised three buses during the protest. Major protests have been held across the country against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Anti-CAA protests: Security beefed up in Delhi, ahead of Friday prayers

Anti-Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 protests: 10 things you need to know

Heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-reels-under-bouts-of-air-pollution-as-aqi-crosses-350-mark-267343">national capital </a>made slight improvements in the pollution levels as the air quality was hovering at the 'poor' category on Friday.&nbsp;

The air quality index (AQI) recorded at 9:00 am in some of the areas in Delhi NCR stood at: 317, 301, 294, 352, 342 in Anand Vihar, ITO, RK Puram, Dwarka Sector 8 and Lodhi Road respectively as per the data shared by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).&nbsp;

An AQI of 0-50 is considered as 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. Once the AQI crosses the 500-mark, it falls under 'very severe' or 'emergency' category.&nbsp;

As per the central government-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality may improve to ‘poor’ to ‘moderate’ on Saturday.

However, the improvement might not make a big impact as temperatures are expected to drop down on December 15-16, which can create dense fog and lead to a rise in pollution levels.&nbsp;

From the last few days, the situation of air quality worsened and was hovering between 'severe' and 'very poor' in the national capital region as temperatures started to decline.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday in the national capital made slight improvements in the pollution levels as the air quality was hovering at the 'poor' category on Friday.

Heavy rains and thunderstorms on Thursday in the national capital made slight improvements in the pollution levels as the air quality was hovering at the 'poor' category on Friday. The air quality index (AQI) recorded at 9:00 am in some of the areas in Delhi NCR stood at: 317, 301, 294, 352, 342 in Anand Vihar, ITO, RK Puram, Dwarka Sector 8 and Lodhi Road respectively as per the data shared by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). An AQI of 0-50 is considered as 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. Once the AQI crosses the 500-mark, it falls under 'very severe' or 'emergency' category. As per the central government-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality may improve to ‘poor’ to ‘moderate’ on Saturday. However, the improvement might not make a big impact as temperatures are expected to drop down on December 15-16, which can create dense fog and lead to a rise in pollution levels. From the last few days, the situation of air quality worsened and was hovering between 'severe' and 'very poor' in the national capital region as temperatures started to decline.

Delhi air quality improves to 'poor' following rains and thunderstorms

The national capital continues to reel under noxious air after a brief relief from the <a href="On Tuesday morning, the air quality index docked at 352 with PM2.5 at 188 and PM10 306, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). ">poor air quality</a> during the last week.

On Tuesday morning, the air quality index docked at 352 with PM2.5 at 188 and PM10 306, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

At 9 in the morning, the AQI at Dhirpur, Delhi University and Chandni Chowk was at 363, 357 and 377 respectively. At the city`s major junction such as IIT Delhi, Pusa Road and Mathura Road, the AQI was recorded at 328, 333 and 336, respectively.

Today, the minimum and maximum temperature of Delhi will hover around 8 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius with the humidity at 50 per cent. A shallow fog will envelop the region throughout the day.

The AQI is expected to improve from December 12 due to the prevalence of the western disturbance."Under the influence of approaching western disturbance, increased wind speed and scattered rainfall is expected by the evening of 12th December, improvement in AQI is expecting," stated SAFAR in its advisory.

Also Watch:&nbsp;How Pollution is taking a toll on the GDP

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Even in the capital`s adjoining area Ghaziabad, the AQI was hovering around 400 marks. The residents` complaint of breathlessness and eye irritation while moving outdoors.&nbsp;

The top court had on Monday lifted the ban on construction activities partially in Delhi-NCR to contain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chokes-again-as-aqi-level-deteriorates-265878">air pollution levels</a>.

The judicature had imposed a moratorium on all construction and demolition activities in light of the deteriorating air quality from the past couple of weeks in the region.

The Center-run SAFAR has advised people residing in the national capital and its adjoining areas to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion."Take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see a doctor if you get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it said in an advisory.&nbsp;

The national capital continues to reel under noxious air after a brief relief from the poor air quality during the last week. On Tuesday morning, the air quality index docked at 352 with PM2.

The national capital continues to reel under noxious air after a brief relief from the poor air quality during the last week. On Tuesday morning, the air quality index docked at 352 with PM2.5 at 188 and PM10 306, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). At 9 in the morning, the AQI at Dhirpur, Delhi University and Chandni Chowk was at 363, 357 and 377 respectively. At the city`s major junction such as IIT Delhi, Pusa Road and Mathura Road, the AQI was recorded at 328, 333 and 336, respectively. Today, the minimum and maximum temperature of Delhi will hover around 8 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius with the humidity at 50 per cent. A shallow fog will envelop the region throughout the day. The AQI is expected to improve from December 12 due to the prevalence of the western disturbance."Under the influence of approaching western disturbance, increased wind speed and scattered rainfall is expected by the evening of 12th December, improvement in AQI is expecting," stated SAFAR in its advisory. Also Watch: How Pollution is taking a toll on the GDP × Even in the capital`s adjoining area Ghaziabad, the AQI was hovering around 400 marks. The residents` complaint of breathlessness and eye irritation while moving outdoors. The top court had on Monday lifted the ban on construction activities partially in Delhi-NCR to contain air pollution levels. The judicature had imposed a moratorium on all construction and demolition activities in light of the deteriorating air quality from the past couple of weeks in the region. The Center-run SAFAR has advised people residing in the national capital and its adjoining areas to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion."Take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see a doctor if you get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue," it said in an advisory.

Delhi reels under bouts of air pollution as AQI crosses 350 mark

The All India United Democratic Front, an Assam-based political party, protested against the controversial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/citizenship-amendment-bill-tabled-in-lok-sabha-267128">Citizenship (Amendment) Bill</a>, 2019 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday.

Protestors marched with placards that read, `We oppose CAB` and `CAB is against the idea of India`.

"The Centre is trying to get illegal Bangladeshi immigrants into our state. We are against this Bill, and we will keep protesting against the Bill. The government can pass it but we will not let it be enforced into Assam," Nizamuddin Choudhury, a party legislator, told ANI.

"The CAB should be abolished because it is against our constitution. This is a religious bill, which violates the Assam Accord signed in 1985," said Sujabuddin Lashkar, a protestor.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, that seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, was tabled in Lok Sabha on Monday by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Citizenship Amendment Bill tabled in Lok Sabha

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If passed, the legislation will enable Indian citizenship to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from the three countries to India till December 31, 2014, facing religious persecution and put an end to them being treated as illegal immigrants in the country.

The Bill has evoked mixed reactions from various sections of the society and the political parties. Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, had on Sunday said that the party will oppose the Citizenship Amendment Bill "tooth and nail" in Parliament, calling it "violation" of the Indian Constitution.

Several Congress leaders including Ghulam Nabi Azad, Gaurav Gogoi and AK Antony had taken part in the meeting held at Gandhi`s residence late on Sunday.

Apart from this, several students and indigenous people`s rights organisations such as the All Assam Students` Union and the Indigenous People`s Front of Tripura , through marches and calling for strikes, have also carried out protests against the CAB.

The Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha.

The All India United Democratic Front, an Assam-based political party, protested against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday.

The All India United Democratic Front, an Assam-based political party, protested against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Monday. Protestors marched with placards that read, `We oppose CAB` and `CAB is against the idea of India`. "The Centre is trying to get illegal Bangladeshi immigrants into our state. We are against this Bill, and we will keep protesting against the Bill. The government can pass it but we will not let it be enforced into Assam," Nizamuddin Choudhury, a party legislator, told ANI. "The CAB should be abolished because it is against our constitution. This is a religious bill, which violates the Assam Accord signed in 1985," said Sujabuddin Lashkar, a protestor. The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, that seeks to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, was tabled in Lok Sabha on Monday by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Also Watch: Citizenship Amendment Bill tabled in Lok Sabha × If passed, the legislation will enable Indian citizenship to the members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from the three countries to India till December 31, 2014, facing religious persecution and put an end to them being treated as illegal immigrants in the country. The Bill has evoked mixed reactions from various sections of the society and the political parties. Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, had on Sunday said that the party will oppose the Citizenship Amendment Bill "tooth and nail" in Parliament, calling it "violation" of the Indian Constitution. Several Congress leaders including Ghulam Nabi Azad, Gaurav Gogoi and AK Antony had taken part in the meeting held at Gandhi`s residence late on Sunday. Apart from this, several students and indigenous people`s rights organisations such as the All Assam Students` Union and the Indigenous People`s Front of Tripura , through marches and calling for strikes, have also carried out protests against the CAB. The Bill was passed by the Lower House of the Parliament earlier this year but lapsed with the term of the previous Lok Sabha.

Assam's AIUDF protests against Citizenship Amendment Bill in Delhi

India can engage with the Taliban if the group engages with the Afghan government and is acceptable to Afghan people, India's former ambassador to Afghanistan and member of the National Security Advisory Board Amar Sinha said at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-needs-to-create-its-own-club-focus-on-indian-ocean-region-ram-madhav-at-wion-world-order-event-266452">WION's World Order event</a> in New Delhi today.&nbsp;

"The only way forward is through a ceasefire and the Taliban engaging with the Afghan government and the Afghan people. Once they engage with them, India will have no hesitation with engaging with the Taliban," Sinha said.

Sinha added, "let the Afghan people accept them. We have stood behind the Afghan govt. It is a good policy to carry and it is a matter of a month when we would be engaging, as they say, very popular Hindi song, 'Apna time agayega', our time will come. Afghanistan is not going away".

India's official policy on the Afghan peace process has been "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" with the Afghan government playing a key role.&nbsp;

Sinha further said that India won't be forgiving the Taliban easily and its links with Pakistan are well known. He highlighted that its "deputy leader is Haqqani which is an ISI agency and has carried out all the attacks in Kabul and against India. So, I don't think we should forgive them as easily."

India, as per its policy, doesn't engage with the Taliban. The only contact that happened was during the 1999 hijacking of the Indian Airline IC 814 when the plane was taken to Kandahar and Afghanistan was under the control of the Taliban. 
&nbsp; 
Asked, if New Delhi should engage with the Taliban like other countries as part of the peace process, Sinha said, "not engaging with the Taliban has not boomeranged at all".

"We have absolutely zero equity with the Taliban. All our equity is with the Republic of Afghanistan and the young and modern Afghanistan, where we have a very good standing," he said.&nbsp;

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Sinha said that India's "position has been very mature" and if one looks around "what is happening... just about everyone is following a me-too policy". While countries like China, Russia, Uzbekistan, Iran have been talking with the Taliban "what has been achieved is nothing, the violence level is as high."

Amar Sinha, along with former Indian envoy to Pakistan TCA Raghavan in 2018 represented India at a "non-official" level at Moscow talks on Afghanistan wherein the Taliban was also present but no statement was made by any of the Indian diplomats.

Last week, US President Donald Trump made a surprise visit to Afghanistan and announced that Washington will start talks with the Taliban. One of the pre-condition, Trump said, would be a be ceasefire by the grouping which means putting an end to violence by the group on the landlocked South Asian country.&nbsp;

US special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad will "rejoin talks" with the Taliban in Doha according to the US State Department that could "lead to intra-Afghan negotiations and a peaceful settlement of the war, specifically a reduction in violence that leads to a ceasefire".

President Trump cancelled the talks with the Taliban in September after an attack killed a US soldier in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India can engage with the Taliban if the group engages with the Afghan government and is acceptable to Afghan people, India's former ambassador to Afghanistan and member of the National Security Advisory Board Amar Sinha said at WION's World Order event in New Delhi today.

India can engage with the Taliban if the group engages with the Afghan government and is acceptable to Afghan people, India's former ambassador to Afghanistan and member of the National Security Advisory Board Amar Sinha said at WION's World Order event in New Delhi today. "The only way forward is through a ceasefire and the Taliban engaging with the Afghan government and the Afghan people. Once they engage with them, India will have no hesitation with engaging with the Taliban," Sinha said. Sinha added, "let the Afghan people accept them. We have stood behind the Afghan govt. It is a good policy to carry and it is a matter of a month when we would be engaging, as they say, very popular Hindi song, 'Apna time agayega', our time will come. Afghanistan is not going away". India's official policy on the Afghan peace process has been "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" with the Afghan government playing a key role. Sinha further said that India won't be forgiving the Taliban easily and its links with Pakistan are well known. He highlighted that its "deputy leader is Haqqani which is an ISI agency and has carried out all the attacks in Kabul and against India. So, I don't think we should forgive them as easily." India, as per its policy, doesn't engage with the Taliban. The only contact that happened was during the 1999 hijacking of the Indian Airline IC 814 when the plane was taken to Kandahar and Afghanistan was under the control of the Taliban. Asked, if New Delhi should engage with the Taliban like other countries as part of the peace process, Sinha said, "not engaging with the Taliban has not boomeranged at all". "We have absolutely zero equity with the Taliban. All our equity is with the Republic of Afghanistan and the young and modern Afghanistan, where we have a very good standing," he said. × Sinha said that India's "position has been very mature" and if one looks around "what is happening... just about everyone is following a me-too policy". While countries like China, Russia, Uzbekistan, Iran have been talking with the Taliban "what has been achieved is nothing, the violence level is as high." Amar Sinha, along with former Indian envoy to Pakistan TCA Raghavan in 2018 represented India at a "non-official" level at Moscow talks on Afghanistan wherein the Taliban was also present but no statement was made by any of the Indian diplomats. Last week, US President Donald Trump made a surprise visit to Afghanistan and announced that Washington will start talks with the Taliban. One of the pre-condition, Trump said, would be a be ceasefire by the grouping which means putting an end to violence by the group on the landlocked South Asian country. US special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad will "rejoin talks" with the Taliban in Doha according to the US State Department that could "lead to intra-Afghan negotiations and a peaceful settlement of the war, specifically a reduction in violence that leads to a ceasefire". President Trump cancelled the talks with the Taliban in September after an attack killed a US soldier in Afghanistan.

If Taliban engages with Afghan government, India can drop its hesitations: Former ambassador to Afghanistan

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-quality-remains-in-poor-category-aqi-likely-to-deteriorate-tomorrow-265679">air quality of Delhi</a> has again deteriorated from the `moderate` category on Tuesday, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

At several major junctions of the city, the Air Quality Index (AQI) oscillated between `poor` and `very poor` category.

At Anand Vihar, the AQI was at 306 with PM 2.5 at 306 and PM10 at 269. In Ashok Vihar, the level of air pollution was high as the AQI was recorded at 309 at 9:30 in the morning.

While in areas such as Mandir Marg, ITO and Lodhi road, the AQI was 271, 281 and 212.

Even in Adjoining areas of the capital, the AQI also plunged making tuff for residents to move outdoors with Gurugram (245), Faridabad (240), Noida (238) and Ghaziabad (347).

The air quality of Delhi has again deteriorated from the `moderate` category on Tuesday, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At several major junctions of the city, the Air Quality Index (AQI) oscillated between `poor` and `very poor` category.

The air quality of Delhi has again deteriorated from the `moderate` category on Tuesday, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At several major junctions of the city, the Air Quality Index (AQI) oscillated between `poor` and `very poor` category. At Anand Vihar, the AQI was at 306 with PM 2.5 at 306 and PM10 at 269. In Ashok Vihar, the level of air pollution was high as the AQI was recorded at 309 at 9:30 in the morning. While in areas such as Mandir Marg, ITO and Lodhi road, the AQI was 271, 281 and 212. Even in Adjoining areas of the capital, the AQI also plunged making tuff for residents to move outdoors with Gurugram (245), Faridabad (240), Noida (238) and Ghaziabad (347).

Delhi chokes again as AQI level deteriorates

Mother of 2012 Delhi rape and murder victim on Monday welcomed the decision of Delhi government to recommend the rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-case-parents-plea-seeking-to-expedite-execution-of-convicts-to-be-heard-by-new-judge-264367">Nirbhaya`s mother</a>, Asha Devi said, "I welcome Delhi government`s decision to recommend rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case. I hope the accused will be hanged to death soon. I know that the process is still going on but I hope that the accused persons will be hanged to death soon. I believe that there are a few loopholes in our judicial system."

"The Supreme Court twice pronounced the sentence to death for the accused in this case but it`s been 2.5 years now and that order has not been followed," she added.

The Delhi government on Sunday recommended the rejection of the mercy petition of one of the convicts in Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case.

Earlier, the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court had dismissed the appeal of the convict Vinay Sharma and had upheld the sentence pronounced by the trial court in the matter.

The petition will now be placed before the Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi for consideration after which it will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Central government.

Asha further condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-fast-track-court-to-deal-with-vets-rape-case-cm-promises-stringent-punishment-to-culprits-265584">Hyderabad veterinarian rape</a> and murder case and stated that because the accused people are still `alive`, it has conveyed a wrong message in the society.

Also Watch:&nbsp;Rape &amp; murder of 27-year-old sends shockwaves

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"Rape and murder of the woman veterinarian was barbaric. Unlike us who had to fight for seven years, she should get justice soon. The administration should reflect on why such incidents re-occur. The accused persons in both the rape cases should be hanged to death," said Asha.

She further asserted that rape incidents occur almost every day but nobody is concerned about such cases.

"We cannot stop such incidents until the accused people are given stringent punishment. It`s time to act now," said Asha.

In December 2012, a 23-year-old paramedic student was gang-raped inside a running bus by six persons and thrown out on the road along with her male friend in the national capital. She succumbed to injuries a few days later.&nbsp;

Mother of 2012 Delhi rape and murder victim on Monday welcomed the decision of Delhi government to recommend the rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case.

Mother of 2012 Delhi rape and murder victim on Monday welcomed the decision of Delhi government to recommend the rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case. Nirbhaya`s mother, Asha Devi said, "I welcome Delhi government`s decision to recommend rejection of mercy petition of one of the convicts in the case. I hope the accused will be hanged to death soon. I know that the process is still going on but I hope that the accused persons will be hanged to death soon. I believe that there are a few loopholes in our judicial system." "The Supreme Court twice pronounced the sentence to death for the accused in this case but it`s been 2.5 years now and that order has not been followed," she added. The Delhi government on Sunday recommended the rejection of the mercy petition of one of the convicts in Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case. Earlier, the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court had dismissed the appeal of the convict Vinay Sharma and had upheld the sentence pronounced by the trial court in the matter. The petition will now be placed before the Lieutenant-Governor of Delhi for consideration after which it will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Central government. Asha further condemned the Hyderabad veterinarian rape and murder case and stated that because the accused people are still `alive`, it has conveyed a wrong message in the society. Also Watch: Rape & murder of 27-year-old sends shockwaves × "Rape and murder of the woman veterinarian was barbaric. Unlike us who had to fight for seven years, she should get justice soon. The administration should reflect on why such incidents re-occur. The accused persons in both the rape cases should be hanged to death," said Asha. She further asserted that rape incidents occur almost every day but nobody is concerned about such cases. "We cannot stop such incidents until the accused people are given stringent punishment. It`s time to act now," said Asha. In December 2012, a 23-year-old paramedic student was gang-raped inside a running bus by six persons and thrown out on the road along with her male friend in the national capital. She succumbed to injuries a few days later.

Nirbhaya's mother welcomes Delhi government's decision to recommend rejection of convict's mercy petition

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-in-delhi-moderate-slight-deterioration-today-265370">air quality in Delhi</a> remained in the `poor` category on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) likely to deteriorate marginally tomorrow, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The overall AQI of the national capital was 266, in the `Poor` category at 9:00 am on Monday, said SAFAR.

"The overall Delhi Air Quality Index (AQI) is back in the poor category on Monday. The impact of moist air due to rain is diminishing now. The SAFAR model forecast suggests AQI is likely to deteriorate marginally to the higher end of poor category for tomorrow," said SAFAR in its trending summary.

Further deterioration to the `Very Poor` category is forecast for December 3. Since fire count is low, no significant stubble impact is expecting in Delhi tomorrow, the agency said.

In Chandani Chowk, the major pollutant PM 2.5 was at 343 in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-gasps-for-breath-aqi-remains-in-very-poor-category-264003">`Very Poor` category</a> whereas in Noida it was s at 227 in the `Poor` category.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered `good`, 51-100 `satisfactory`, 101-200 `moderate`, 201-300 `poor`, 301-400 `very poor` and 401-500 is marked as `severe`. An AQI above 500 falls in the `severe plus` category.

PM 2.5 was recorded at 206 in the `Poor` category and PM 10 at 192 in the `Moderate` category at Lodhi Road area earlier today, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data.

After a brief respite from the toxic air, the air quality of Delhi again plunged into `poor` category on Sunday morning making it difficult for locals to move outdoors.

The maximum and minimum temperatures in the national capital are expected to hover around 23.4 degrees Celcius and 8.0 degrees Celcius, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The air quality in Delhi remained in the `poor` category on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) likely to deteriorate marginally tomorrow, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The air quality in Delhi remained in the `poor` category on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) likely to deteriorate marginally tomorrow, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). The overall AQI of the national capital was 266, in the `Poor` category at 9:00 am on Monday, said SAFAR. "The overall Delhi Air Quality Index (AQI) is back in the poor category on Monday. The impact of moist air due to rain is diminishing now. The SAFAR model forecast suggests AQI is likely to deteriorate marginally to the higher end of poor category for tomorrow," said SAFAR in its trending summary. Further deterioration to the `Very Poor` category is forecast for December 3. Since fire count is low, no significant stubble impact is expecting in Delhi tomorrow, the agency said. In Chandani Chowk, the major pollutant PM 2.5 was at 343 in the `Very Poor` category whereas in Noida it was s at 227 in the `Poor` category. An AQI between 0-50 is considered `good`, 51-100 `satisfactory`, 101-200 `moderate`, 201-300 `poor`, 301-400 `very poor` and 401-500 is marked as `severe`. An AQI above 500 falls in the `severe plus` category. PM 2.5 was recorded at 206 in the `Poor` category and PM 10 at 192 in the `Moderate` category at Lodhi Road area earlier today, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data. After a brief respite from the toxic air, the air quality of Delhi again plunged into `poor` category on Sunday morning making it difficult for locals to move outdoors. The maximum and minimum temperatures in the national capital are expected to hover around 23.4 degrees Celcius and 8.0 degrees Celcius, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Delhi air quality remains in 'poor' category, AQI likely to deteriorate tomorrow

In a strong message, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ties-with-japan-key-component-of-indias-vision-for-stability-in-indo-pacific-pm-modi-265476">India and Japan</a> have called Pakistan to act against terror groups operating out of territory under its control and comply with the commitments it has made to the anti-terror financing body Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

The joint statement issued after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-reflects-synergy-between-indias-act-east-policy-and-japans-vision-for-free-open-indo-pacific-jaishankar-265460">India, Japan maiden 2+2 Defence and Foreign Ministers meeting</a> said, "The Ministers underlined the need for all countries to ensure that all territory under their control is not used to launch terrorist attacks on other countries in any manner."

"They noted in this context the threat posed to regional security by terrorist networks operating out of Pakistan and called upon it to take resolute and irreversible action against them and fully comply with international commitments including to FATF," the statement added. &nbsp;

Pakistan had given commitments to the FATF but has failed to live up to them and has received a rap from the Paris-based body. Islamabad faces a probable blacklisting and has time till February when the plenary meets next.&nbsp;

Other than Pakistan, North Korea and the South China Sea was also discussed during the meet at Delhi's Hyderabad house.&nbsp;

Both sides urged a call on North Korea for "complete, verifiable and irreversible dismantlement of all weapons of mass destruction" and urged Pyongyang to "resolve the abductions issue at the earliest date". North Korea is known to have abducted many Japanese citizens, Tokyo has nudged the country to release them soon.

On the South China Sea, both the sides called on the 'Code of Conduct' to be negotiated and not to "prejudice the rights and interests of the stakeholders using the South China Sea and freedoms of all states under international law". The nations also reiterated the need for a "free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific region in which the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity are ensured".

Both sides made "significant progress" on Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) negotiations and expressed a "desire for an early conclusion". ACSA is a logistics agreement. Its negotiations started last year, expected to be signed during Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to India in December.&nbsp;

The Japanese side will be sending a liaison officer at the Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) - in Gurgaon and both the countries have agreed for the first India-Japan joint fighter aircraft exercise to take place in Japan. 
&nbsp;

In a strong message, India and Japan have called Pakistan to act against terror groups operating out of territory under its control and comply with the commitments it has made to the anti-terror financing body Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

In a strong message, India and Japan have called Pakistan to act against terror groups operating out of territory under its control and comply with the commitments it has made to the anti-terror financing body Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The joint statement issued after India, Japan maiden 2+2 Defence and Foreign Ministers meeting said, "The Ministers underlined the need for all countries to ensure that all territory under their control is not used to launch terrorist attacks on other countries in any manner." "They noted in this context the threat posed to regional security by terrorist networks operating out of Pakistan and called upon it to take resolute and irreversible action against them and fully comply with international commitments including to FATF," the statement added. Pakistan had given commitments to the FATF but has failed to live up to them and has received a rap from the Paris-based body. Islamabad faces a probable blacklisting and has time till February when the plenary meets next. Other than Pakistan, North Korea and the South China Sea was also discussed during the meet at Delhi's Hyderabad house. Both sides urged a call on North Korea for "complete, verifiable and irreversible dismantlement of all weapons of mass destruction" and urged Pyongyang to "resolve the abductions issue at the earliest date". North Korea is known to have abducted many Japanese citizens, Tokyo has nudged the country to release them soon. On the South China Sea, both the sides called on the 'Code of Conduct' to be negotiated and not to "prejudice the rights and interests of the stakeholders using the South China Sea and freedoms of all states under international law". The nations also reiterated the need for a "free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific region in which the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity are ensured". Both sides made "significant progress" on Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) negotiations and expressed a "desire for an early conclusion". ACSA is a logistics agreement. Its negotiations started last year, expected to be signed during Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to India in December. The Japanese side will be sending a liaison officer at the Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) - in Gurgaon and both the countries have agreed for the first India-Japan joint fighter aircraft exercise to take place in Japan.

India, Japan ask Pakistan to take irreversible action on terror; fulfil FATF commitments

The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Executive Council has approved the recommendations of a High-Level Committee (HLC) set up by the varsity administration to discuss the revised hostel manual and hostel charges.

The JNU administration, in a circular, said that the HLC considered the feedback of the student representatives submitted to the Dean of Students' Office through emails.

This came after days of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protest-over-fee-hike-at-jawaharlal-nehru-university-turns-into-scuffle-with-police-261422">protests by the JNU</a> student as the varsity administration had given its nod to the new hostel manual, which included a fee hike.

Also watch:&nbsp;Scuffle between JNU students and police outside the JNU campus during protest

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The revised manual will be implemented from January 2020.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-administration-to-take-stringent-action-against-students-over-criminal-vandalism-262743">JNU administration</a> has appealed to the agitating students to end their strike with immediate effect. "The university's image has already taken a beating and normalcy in the university must return at the earliest," the circular said.

The HLC has recommended that concessions in utility and service charges be given to all the students of the university while appreciating the 50 per cent concession given to the eligible BPL category students in these charges by the Executive Council.

"The committee scrutinized the estimated utility and service charges in the hostels, which are Rs 2,000 per month (including electricity and water charges of Rs 300) and has recommended that Rs 1,000 per month may be charged, in place of Rs 2,000 per month, towards utility and service charges for all the students," read the circular.

The Committee has also recommended 75 per cent reduction in utility and service charges for all the eligible BPL students who would be charged Rs 500 in place of Rs 2,000 per month.

"It is expected that 75 per cent concessions in utility and service charges to eligible BPL category students and 50 per cent concessions to the rest will go down well with the student community and stakeholders at large," the circular said.

The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Executive Council has approved the recommendations of a High-Level Committee (HLC) set up by the varsity administration to discuss the revised hostel manual and hostel charges.

The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Executive Council has approved the recommendations of a High-Level Committee (HLC) set up by the varsity administration to discuss the revised hostel manual and hostel charges. The JNU administration, in a circular, said that the HLC considered the feedback of the student representatives submitted to the Dean of Students' Office through emails. This came after days of protests by the JNU student as the varsity administration had given its nod to the new hostel manual, which included a fee hike. Also watch: Scuffle between JNU students and police outside the JNU campus during protest × The revised manual will be implemented from January 2020. The JNU administration has appealed to the agitating students to end their strike with immediate effect. "The university's image has already taken a beating and normalcy in the university must return at the earliest," the circular said. The HLC has recommended that concessions in utility and service charges be given to all the students of the university while appreciating the 50 per cent concession given to the eligible BPL category students in these charges by the Executive Council. "The committee scrutinized the estimated utility and service charges in the hostels, which are Rs 2,000 per month (including electricity and water charges of Rs 300) and has recommended that Rs 1,000 per month may be charged, in place of Rs 2,000 per month, towards utility and service charges for all the students," read the circular. The Committee has also recommended 75 per cent reduction in utility and service charges for all the eligible BPL students who would be charged Rs 500 in place of Rs 2,000 per month. "It is expected that 75 per cent concessions in utility and service charges to eligible BPL category students and 50 per cent concessions to the rest will go down well with the student community and stakeholders at large," the circular said.

JNU Executive Council approves recommendations of high level committee on revised hostel manual, charges

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