The Parliament and the Rashtrapati Bhawan were lit up in multiple colours on the eve of Constitution Day or Samvidhan Diwas, which is celebrated annually on November 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution.

The Constitution day was first celebrated in 2015 as a mark of tribute to India's first Law Minister Bhim Rao Ambedkar, who played a pivotal role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution. The declaration regarding the same was made by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-slams-congress-over-ayodhya-article-370-issue-264485">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>on October 11, 2015, while laying the foundation stone of Statue of Equality in Mumbai.

November 26, which was earlier celebrated as Law Day, marks the day when India had adopted its Constitution back in 1949, more than two years after attaining independence from the British rule. The Constitution came into effect next year on 26 January, 1950, so as to commemorate the pledge of Purna Swaraj, passed in the Lahore session of the Congress on this day in 1930.

In his address to the nation during the 56th edition of the programme 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi had described November 26 as a 'special day for the whole country' and expressed hope that Constitution Day would reinforce the nation's obligation towards upholding the constitutional ideals and values.

"I hope that the 'Constitution Day' reinforces our obligation towards upholding the constitutional ideals and values thus contributing to nation-building. After all, this was the dream of the makers of our Constitution," Modi said.

Both PM Modi and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-of-national-capital-has-worsened-beyond-all-norms-president-kovind-263223">President Ram Nath Kovind</a> are slated to address a joint session of Parliament on November 26. Besides, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/youth-congress-leaders-protest-against-bjps-govt-formation-in-maharashtra-264389">Bharatiya Janata Party</a> will organise a 10-day long programme on the occasion.

Some opposition parties will likely boycott President Kovind's address during the joint session of Parliament. The parties are also planning to protest in front of the Ambedkar Statue inside the Parliament complex against the political <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-pass-order-on-plea-against-government-formation-in-maharashtra-264525">developments in Maharashtra</a>.

The Parliament and the Rashtrapati Bhawan were lit up in multiple colours on the eve of Constitution Day or Samvidhan Diwas, which is celebrated annually on November 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution.

The Parliament and the Rashtrapati Bhawan were lit up in multiple colours on the eve of Constitution Day or Samvidhan Diwas, which is celebrated annually on November 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution. The Constitution day was first celebrated in 2015 as a mark of tribute to India's first Law Minister Bhim Rao Ambedkar, who played a pivotal role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution. The declaration regarding the same was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 11, 2015, while laying the foundation stone of Statue of Equality in Mumbai. November 26, which was earlier celebrated as Law Day, marks the day when India had adopted its Constitution back in 1949, more than two years after attaining independence from the British rule. The Constitution came into effect next year on 26 January, 1950, so as to commemorate the pledge of Purna Swaraj, passed in the Lahore session of the Congress on this day in 1930. In his address to the nation during the 56th edition of the programme 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi had described November 26 as a 'special day for the whole country' and expressed hope that Constitution Day would reinforce the nation's obligation towards upholding the constitutional ideals and values. "I hope that the 'Constitution Day' reinforces our obligation towards upholding the constitutional ideals and values thus contributing to nation-building. After all, this was the dream of the makers of our Constitution," Modi said. Both PM Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind are slated to address a joint session of Parliament on November 26. Besides, the Bharatiya Janata Party will organise a 10-day long programme on the occasion. Some opposition parties will likely boycott President Kovind's address during the joint session of Parliament. The parties are also planning to protest in front of the Ambedkar Statue inside the Parliament complex against the political developments in Maharashtra.

Parliament, Rashtrapati Bhawan illuminated on eve of Constitution Day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/paytm-raises-1-billion-in-fresh-funding-264351">SoftBank</a>-backed Oyo Hotels and Homes' losses ballooned six-fold in the year to March, while its revenue more than quadrupled, a valuation report filed by the India-based hotel chain with local regulators showed on Monday.

The losses highlight a period of rapid expansion by Oyo into markets such as China, the United States, and the United Kingdom, which has made the six-year-old startup one of the world's biggest hotel chains by room count.

Oyo reported a net loss of 23.85 billion rupees ($332 million) in the year to March 2019, compared with a loss of 3.6 billion rupees a year earlier, according to the report filed with India's ministry of corporate affairs. Revenue from operations surged to 64.57 billion rupees ($900 million) from about 14.13 billion rupees a year earlier.

Oyo said in a statement the report contained only "certain provisional financials" for the year ending March 2019. "These are not the final audited financials and the same will be issued later by the company along with the annual report that we issue every year."

The report, prepared by a valuer in Gurugram, just south of New Delhi, said the financials for the year to March 2019 were unaudited and all figures were provided by Oyo's management.

The growing losses at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/softbank-backed-oyo-to-raise-15-billion-led-by-founder-other-existing-investors-254242">Oyo</a> come as its major investor SoftBank struggles to raise funding for a second investment fund in the wake of the failed listing of office-rental company WeWork and amid questions about the path to profitability of other marquee investments like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uber-safety-culture-lacking-in-autonomous-car-incident-regulator-263292">Uber</a>.

SoftBank, which has invested nearly $1 billion in Oyo through its Vision Fund, this month reported its first quarterly loss in 14 years, dragged down by an $8.9 billion hit at the Vision Fund.

Oyo's operating expenses grew nearly five-fold year-over-year to 61.32 billion rupees, while total expenses hit 90.28 billion rupees, the report showed.

Gurugram-headquartered Oyo, valued at $10 billion, allows guests to book hotels through its mobile app and charges partnering hotels a fee on room revenue. It also franchises its brand and offers standardized amenities at hotels on its network.

SoftBank-backed Oyo Hotels and Homes' losses ballooned six-fold in the year to March, while its revenue more than quadrupled, a valuation report filed by the India-based hotel chain with local regulators showed on Monday.

SoftBank-backed Oyo Hotels and Homes' losses ballooned six-fold in the year to March, while its revenue more than quadrupled, a valuation report filed by the India-based hotel chain with local regulators showed on Monday. The losses highlight a period of rapid expansion by Oyo into markets such as China, the United States, and the United Kingdom, which has made the six-year-old startup one of the world's biggest hotel chains by room count. Oyo reported a net loss of 23.85 billion rupees ($332 million) in the year to March 2019, compared with a loss of 3.6 billion rupees a year earlier, according to the report filed with India's ministry of corporate affairs. Revenue from operations surged to 64.57 billion rupees ($900 million) from about 14.13 billion rupees a year earlier. Oyo said in a statement the report contained only "certain provisional financials" for the year ending March 2019. "These are not the final audited financials and the same will be issued later by the company along with the annual report that we issue every year." The report, prepared by a valuer in Gurugram, just south of New Delhi, said the financials for the year to March 2019 were unaudited and all figures were provided by Oyo's management. The growing losses at Oyo come as its major investor SoftBank struggles to raise funding for a second investment fund in the wake of the failed listing of office-rental company WeWork and amid questions about the path to profitability of other marquee investments like Uber. SoftBank, which has invested nearly $1 billion in Oyo through its Vision Fund, this month reported its first quarterly loss in 14 years, dragged down by an $8.9 billion hit at the Vision Fund. Oyo's operating expenses grew nearly five-fold year-over-year to 61.32 billion rupees, while total expenses hit 90.28 billion rupees, the report showed. Gurugram-headquartered Oyo, valued at $10 billion, allows guests to book hotels through its mobile app and charges partnering hotels a fee on room revenue. It also franchises its brand and offers standardized amenities at hotels on its network.

SoftBank's Oyo reveals over $330 million annual loss; Revenue surges: Valuation report

District and Sessions&nbsp;Judge of Patiala House Court on Monday approved <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirbhaya-rape-case-court-seeks-status-report-from-tihar-jail-authorities-224277">Nirbhaya</a>`s parents` application seeking transfer of the case to Additional Sessions Judge Satish Arora.

In December last year, Nirbhaya`s parents had approached the court seeking the case to be fast-tracked. The Court has also slated the matter for hearing on November 28.

Earlier, due to the transfer of the judges, the matter kept on getting adjourned.

Advocate Seema Samriddhi Kushwaha, who is representing Nirbhaya`s parents in the case, said, "We had approached the court when legal remedies of the convicts got exhausted. We are seeking the court`s direction to the Tihar Jail authorities to expedite the execution of the rape convicts."

On December 16 in 2012, a 23-year-old paramedic student was gang-raped inside a running bus by six persons in the national capital.

The victim, who was severely assaulted and thrown out on the road along with her male friend, succumbed to injuries a few days later.

Out of the six perpetrators, one committed suicide by hanging himself in prison, while another, a juvenile, served maximum punishment of three years in a reform home and was set free in 2015.

The remaining four rapists were convicted and handed death sentence by a trial court in 2013, which was confirmed by the Delhi High Court in March 2014.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-congress-shiv-sena-petition-supreme-court-to-pass-order-tomorrow-1030-am-264329">Supreme Court</a> upheld the Delhi High Court`s verdict in 2017.

On October 31 earlier this year, the Tihar Jail administration had issued a notice to the convicts asking them to file a mercy plea before the president.

As per law, the convicts can plead for mercy from the President and seek commutation of death sentence to life imprisonment. If the President allows the mercy petition, then the convicts may escape the gallows.

District and Sessions Judge of Patiala House Court on Monday approved Nirbhaya`s parents` application seeking transfer of the case to Additional Sessions Judge Satish Arora.

District and Sessions Judge of Patiala House Court on Monday approved Nirbhaya`s parents` application seeking transfer of the case to Additional Sessions Judge Satish Arora. In December last year, Nirbhaya`s parents had approached the court seeking the case to be fast-tracked. The Court has also slated the matter for hearing on November 28. Earlier, due to the transfer of the judges, the matter kept on getting adjourned. Advocate Seema Samriddhi Kushwaha, who is representing Nirbhaya`s parents in the case, said, "We had approached the court when legal remedies of the convicts got exhausted. We are seeking the court`s direction to the Tihar Jail authorities to expedite the execution of the rape convicts." On December 16 in 2012, a 23-year-old paramedic student was gang-raped inside a running bus by six persons in the national capital. The victim, who was severely assaulted and thrown out on the road along with her male friend, succumbed to injuries a few days later. Out of the six perpetrators, one committed suicide by hanging himself in prison, while another, a juvenile, served maximum punishment of three years in a reform home and was set free in 2015. The remaining four rapists were convicted and handed death sentence by a trial court in 2013, which was confirmed by the Delhi High Court in March 2014. The Supreme Court upheld the Delhi High Court`s verdict in 2017. On October 31 earlier this year, the Tihar Jail administration had issued a notice to the convicts asking them to file a mercy plea before the president. As per law, the convicts can plead for mercy from the President and seek commutation of death sentence to life imprisonment. If the President allows the mercy petition, then the convicts may escape the gallows.

Nirbhaya case: Parents' plea seeking to expedite execution of convicts to be heard by new judge

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries.

"The instrument of ratification of Extradition Treaty between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of India, approved and ratified by the relevant authorities of the two governments, were exchanged by the Acting Foreign Minister HE&nbsp;Idrees Zaman and the Indian Ambassador to Kabul Mr. Vinay Kumar, today," the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"The said agreement was signed by the authorised representatives of the two countries in New Delhi, India on September 14, 2016," the Ministry added.

The treaty, signed during Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in 2016, would provide a legal framework for seeking extradition of terrorists, economic offenders and criminals from and to Afghanistan.

India has extradition treaties with at least 37 countries, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries.

Indian ambassador to Afghanistan Vinay Kumar and acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Idrees Zaman on Sunday exchanged instruments of ratification of India-Afghanistan Extradition Treaty to transport criminal offenders between the two countries. "The instrument of ratification of Extradition Treaty between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of India, approved and ratified by the relevant authorities of the two governments, were exchanged by the Acting Foreign Minister HE Idrees Zaman and the Indian Ambassador to Kabul Mr. Vinay Kumar, today," the Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement. "The said agreement was signed by the authorised representatives of the two countries in New Delhi, India on September 14, 2016," the Ministry added. The treaty, signed during Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's visit to India in 2016, would provide a legal framework for seeking extradition of terrorists, economic offenders and criminals from and to Afghanistan. India has extradition treaties with at least 37 countries, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

India, Afghanistan exchange treaty to extradite criminal offenders

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the proposal to introduce the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019 during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/winter-session-of-parliament-government-set-to-push-citizenship-amendment-bill-263005">Winter Session </a>of Parliament which would benefit about 40 lakh people.

The Bill will help in allowing the registration of properties and provide relief to the residents in Unauthorised Colonies (DCs) of Delhi from registration charges and stamp duty.

Nearly 40 lakh people reside in 1,731 unauthorised colonies located on private or public land in Delhi.

An official release said that properties, whether in the form of a plot of land or built-up space are generally held through General Power of Attorney (GPA, will, agreement to sale and payment and possession documents.

It said the properties in these colonies are not being registered by registration authorities and the residents do not have any title documents in respect of such properties. The banks and financial institutions do not extend any credit facilities.

The proposed bill envisages to recognize GPA, will, agreement to sell, purchase and possession documents as a special one-time relaxation for the residents of UCs in Delhi.

It seeks to provide for registration charge and stamp duty to be levied on the value mentioned in conveyance deed or authorisation slip and for its applicability on last transaction only.

The above relief provisions will benefit more than 40 lakh people living in 1,731 Unauthorised Colonies of Delhi as mentioned in the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Regulations, 2019 notified in October this year.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the proposal to introduce the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019 during the Winter Session of Parliament which would benefit about 40 lakh people.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the proposal to introduce the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Bill, 2019 during the Winter Session of Parliament which would benefit about 40 lakh people. The Bill will help in allowing the registration of properties and provide relief to the residents in Unauthorised Colonies (DCs) of Delhi from registration charges and stamp duty. Nearly 40 lakh people reside in 1,731 unauthorised colonies located on private or public land in Delhi. An official release said that properties, whether in the form of a plot of land or built-up space are generally held through General Power of Attorney (GPA, will, agreement to sale and payment and possession documents. It said the properties in these colonies are not being registered by registration authorities and the residents do not have any title documents in respect of such properties. The banks and financial institutions do not extend any credit facilities. The proposed bill envisages to recognize GPA, will, agreement to sell, purchase and possession documents as a special one-time relaxation for the residents of UCs in Delhi. It seeks to provide for registration charge and stamp duty to be levied on the value mentioned in conveyance deed or authorisation slip and for its applicability on last transaction only. The above relief provisions will benefit more than 40 lakh people living in 1,731 Unauthorised Colonies of Delhi as mentioned in the National Capital Territory of Delhi (Recognition of Property Rights of Residents in Unauthorised Colonies) Regulations, 2019 notified in October this year.

Union Cabinet approves bill for ownership rights in 1,731 unauthorised colonies of Delhi

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing on a petition seeking a direction to link movable and immovable property documents of citizens with their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-passes-aadhaar-bill-government-says-will-bring-comprehensive-law-on-data-protection-234108">Aadhaar</a> number to curb corruption, black money generation and Benami transactions.

A division bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice C Harishankar adjourned the matter after the counsel appearing for the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sought more time. The matter will now be taken up on February 18, 2020.

The court had in July issued a notice to both the Centre and the city-state government on the plea.

The petition in this regard was filed by advocate and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-hits-out-at-bjp-for-making-its-mps-sit-in-opposition-in-parliament-263090">BJP </a>leader Ashwini Upadhyay, who submitted that it is the duty of the government to take apposite steps to curb corruption and seize the Benami properties made by illegal means.

"Executive action should be taken to warn the corrupt that betrayal of the public trust will no longer be tolerated and to reaffirm the rule of law and transparency," the plea submitted.

The petitioner said that the main advantage of the strategy would be that the tax authorities will get the details of "legal owners" immediately and once the Aadhaar linkage takes place, tax authorities can approach them.

"It will clean our electoral process, which is dominated by black-money and Benami transaction and thrives on a cycle of large black investments, the capture of power through foul means and use of political strength to amass private wealth, all with disdain of the citizen," the petition stated.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing on a petition seeking a direction to link movable and immovable property documents of citizens with their Aadhaar number to curb corruption, black money generation and Benami transactions.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday adjourned the hearing on a petition seeking a direction to link movable and immovable property documents of citizens with their Aadhaar number to curb corruption, black money generation and Benami transactions. A division bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice C Harishankar adjourned the matter after the counsel appearing for the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sought more time. The matter will now be taken up on February 18, 2020. The court had in July issued a notice to both the Centre and the city-state government on the plea. The petition in this regard was filed by advocate and BJP leader Ashwini Upadhyay, who submitted that it is the duty of the government to take apposite steps to curb corruption and seize the Benami properties made by illegal means. "Executive action should be taken to warn the corrupt that betrayal of the public trust will no longer be tolerated and to reaffirm the rule of law and transparency," the plea submitted. The petitioner said that the main advantage of the strategy would be that the tax authorities will get the details of "legal owners" immediately and once the Aadhaar linkage takes place, tax authorities can approach them. "It will clean our electoral process, which is dominated by black-money and Benami transaction and thrives on a cycle of large black investments, the capture of power through foul means and use of political strength to amass private wealth, all with disdain of the citizen," the petition stated.

Delhi High Court adjourns hearing on plea seeking linkage of Aadhaar to properties

A delegation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jawaharlal-nehru-university-row-delhi-police-register-fir-over-defacement-of-public-property-262670">Jawaharlal Nehru University</a> (JNU) students on Wednesday reached the Ministry of Human Resources Development (MHRD).

The Ministry has appointed a high power committee for discussion with students and administration to restore the normal functioning and peaceful resolution of all issues in the University.

Also watch:&nbsp;Scuffle between JNU students and police outside campus during protest

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Former UGC Chairman VS Chauhan, AICTE Chairman Anil Sahasrabudhe, and UGC Secretary Rajnish Jain are members of the committee.

The committee is scheduled to hold a meeting to discuss the issue at 3 pm at Shastri Bhawan here.

Yesterday, the JNUSU repeated its demand for rollback of the 'illegally passed draft manual', and fee structure.

In a letter, the JNUSU had said, "The JNUSU would like to reiterate its demands of immediate rollback of the illegally passed draft manual, and fee structure, along with the declaration of the IHA meeting on October 28 as null and void, initiation of dialogue between the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-administration-to-take-stringent-action-against-students-over-criminal-vandalism-262743">JNU Administration</a> and the

Student Community, represented by the elected student representatives, the JNUSU, and the Hostel Presidents."

"The MHRD and the HPEC should take serious cognizance of the illegalities in the JNU, perpetuated under the aegis of the JNU VC, Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, and recommend his removal from the post of JNU VC," the JNUSU had said.

A delegation of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students on Wednesday reached the Ministry of Human Resources Development (MHRD). The Ministry has appointed a high power committee for discussion with students and administration to restore the normal functioning and peaceful resolution of all issues in the University.

A delegation of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students on Wednesday reached the Ministry of Human Resources Development (MHRD). The Ministry has appointed a high power committee for discussion with students and administration to restore the normal functioning and peaceful resolution of all issues in the University. Also watch: Scuffle between JNU students and police outside campus during protest × Former UGC Chairman VS Chauhan, AICTE Chairman Anil Sahasrabudhe, and UGC Secretary Rajnish Jain are members of the committee. The committee is scheduled to hold a meeting to discuss the issue at 3 pm at Shastri Bhawan here. Yesterday, the JNUSU repeated its demand for rollback of the 'illegally passed draft manual', and fee structure. In a letter, the JNUSU had said, "The JNUSU would like to reiterate its demands of immediate rollback of the illegally passed draft manual, and fee structure, along with the declaration of the IHA meeting on October 28 as null and void, initiation of dialogue between the JNU Administration and the Student Community, represented by the elected student representatives, the JNUSU, and the Hostel Presidents." "The MHRD and the HPEC should take serious cognizance of the illegalities in the JNU, perpetuated under the aegis of the JNU VC, Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, and recommend his removal from the post of JNU VC," the JNUSU had said.

Delegation of JNU students reaches Ministry of Human Resources Development

After days of 'severe' and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-pollution-air-quality-index-remains-in-very-poor-category-for-second-consecutive-day-262655">'very poor' air quality</a>, Delhi and its nearby areas witnessed a change with AQI improving to the 'poor' category in the morning on Tuesday.

According to SAFAR, this relief from toxic air is temporary as the wind speed is going to slow down from November 20. Due to this, the air quality is likely to plunge to the 'severe' category on Thursday (November 21).

"Pollutant accumulation leading to quick deterioration is predicted by November 20th and the probability of AQI touching the lower end of SEVERE category on 21st November is high," stated the organisation in its advisory.

Today, the overall <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-to-decide-extending-odd-even-if-air-quality-in-delhi-doesnt-improve-in-2-3-days-arvind-kejriwal-262285">air quality of Delhi</a> was recorded at 218, with PM 10 at 155 and PM 2.5 at 67. People of the city expressed happiness over the improved air quality. "The pollution levels have definitely come down. The air is much cleaner today," said a resident of the city.

The Center-run SAFAR has advised people 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.

After days of 'severe' and 'very poor' air quality, Delhi and its nearby areas witnessed a change with AQI improving to the 'poor' category in the morning on Tuesday.

After days of 'severe' and 'very poor' air quality, Delhi and its nearby areas witnessed a change with AQI improving to the 'poor' category in the morning on Tuesday. According to SAFAR, this relief from toxic air is temporary as the wind speed is going to slow down from November 20. Due to this, the air quality is likely to plunge to the 'severe' category on Thursday (November 21). "Pollutant accumulation leading to quick deterioration is predicted by November 20th and the probability of AQI touching the lower end of SEVERE category on 21st November is high," stated the organisation in its advisory. Today, the overall air quality of Delhi was recorded at 218, with PM 10 at 155 and PM 2.5 at 67. People of the city expressed happiness over the improved air quality. "The pollution levels have definitely come down. The air is much cleaner today," said a resident of the city. The Center-run SAFAR has advised people 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.

Air quality improves slightly in Delhi, SAFAR says relief temporary

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday held a meeting with Chartered Accountants and traders' body to address the concern raised on the process of filling Goods and Services Tax (GST) forms and make them more user-friendly.&nbsp;

Representatives of Rajasthan Tax Consultants' Association, Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and Laghu Udyog Bharti were present in the meeting.

"Nirmala Sitharaman would like to thank ICAI, CAIT, Laghu Udyog Bharti, Rajasthan Tax Consultants` Association and other professionals for their valuable inputs on simplification of GST forms and returns," office of Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted.&nbsp;

In a follow-up tweet, it said that based on today's consultations, Sitharaman has directed that extensive nation-wide consultations should be held on the new GST return system to be launched from April 2020.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday held a meeting with Chartered Accountants and traders' body to address the concern raised on the process of filling Goods and Services Tax (GST) forms and make them more user-friendly.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday held a meeting with Chartered Accountants and traders' body to address the concern raised on the process of filling Goods and Services Tax (GST) forms and make them more user-friendly. Representatives of Rajasthan Tax Consultants' Association, Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and Laghu Udyog Bharti were present in the meeting. "Nirmala Sitharaman would like to thank ICAI, CAIT, Laghu Udyog Bharti, Rajasthan Tax Consultants` Association and other professionals for their valuable inputs on simplification of GST forms and returns," office of Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted. In a follow-up tweet, it said that based on today's consultations, Sitharaman has directed that extensive nation-wide consultations should be held on the new GST return system to be launched from April 2020.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman holds meeting on GST simplification in Delhi

Commenting on the protest organised by the Jawaharlal Nehru Students` Union <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protest-over-fee-hike-at-jawaharlal-nehru-university-turns-into-scuffle-with-police-261422">(JNUSU) over fee hike</a>, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Tuesday and said that the institution must protect itself from such "controversies".

"JNU must protect itself from such controversies. Nobody is against the students protesting but spreading violence and fanning anarchy is not right," he said while speaking to ANI in New Delhi.

"The students should not get violent," the Union Minister added.

On Monday, a clash broke out <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/scuffle-between-jnu-students-and-police-outside-the-jnu-campus-during-protest-261469">between students and the police</a> during a protest organised by JNUSU.

Hundreds of students took part in the protest against "massive fee hike" and a new hostel manual which also includes provisions on dress code and curfew timings.

They raised slogans against the university administration and the government.

The protest turned into a scuffle outside the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) auditorium where Vice President Venkaiah Naidu was addressing the third annual convocation. The students removed a barricade and came face to face with the police.&nbsp;

Commenting on the protest organised by the Jawaharlal Nehru Students` Union (JNUSU) over fee hike, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Tuesday and said that the institution must protect itself from such "controversies".

Commenting on the protest organised by the Jawaharlal Nehru Students` Union (JNUSU) over fee hike, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Tuesday and said that the institution must protect itself from such "controversies". "JNU must protect itself from such controversies. Nobody is against the students protesting but spreading violence and fanning anarchy is not right," he said while speaking to ANI in New Delhi. "The students should not get violent," the Union Minister added. On Monday, a clash broke out between students and the police during a protest organised by JNUSU. Hundreds of students took part in the protest against "massive fee hike" and a new hostel manual which also includes provisions on dress code and curfew timings. They raised slogans against the university administration and the government. The protest turned into a scuffle outside the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) auditorium where Vice President Venkaiah Naidu was addressing the third annual convocation. The students removed a barricade and came face to face with the police.

JNU must protect itself from controversies: Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi

With Delhi-NCR gasping for breath, BJP MLA from Ghaziabad, Nand Kishore Gurjar has penned down a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to direct Indian Air Force to sprinkle water in his constituency with the help of helicopters to settle down dust particles.

In the letter, he wrote, "This is to bring to your notice that in Delhi and its adjoining NCR region Ghaziabad, the air quality index is hovering between 1700-1900. This has created an emergency-like situation in these areas. In these conditions, at present, lakhs of people residing in Delhi-NCR-Loni from the past one week are breathing in the gas chamber and are slowly breathing poisonous air. Due to polluted air, people have fallen prey to heart disease, Asthma, breathlessness, lung infection and eye irritation. The majority of them who are affected are aged people and children."

"In such condition, lakhs of people have faith in our Prime Minister that in this emergency like situation, he will ask Indian Air force to use helicopters and global master aircraft to sprinkle water all over Delhi and NCR. We also believed that you will also seek the help of talented scientists in artificial cloud formation tp reduce air pollution. 16 lakh people of my Loni and crores of people from NCR will be grateful to you," the letter read.

On October 17, Ghaziabad`s Loni (rural area) was placed in the top of the chart of the 108 most polluted cities in the country as per the Central Pollution Control Board`s AQI figures, a day after stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was implemented in the city to tackle the menace of air pollution.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With Delhi-NCR gasping for breath, BJP MLA from Ghaziabad, Nand Kishore Gurjar has penned down a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to direct Indian Air Force to sprinkle water in his constituency with the help of helicopters to settle down dust particles.

With Delhi-NCR gasping for breath, BJP MLA from Ghaziabad, Nand Kishore Gurjar has penned down a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to direct Indian Air Force to sprinkle water in his constituency with the help of helicopters to settle down dust particles. In the letter, he wrote, "This is to bring to your notice that in Delhi and its adjoining NCR region Ghaziabad, the air quality index is hovering between 1700-1900. This has created an emergency-like situation in these areas. In these conditions, at present, lakhs of people residing in Delhi-NCR-Loni from the past one week are breathing in the gas chamber and are slowly breathing poisonous air. Due to polluted air, people have fallen prey to heart disease, Asthma, breathlessness, lung infection and eye irritation. The majority of them who are affected are aged people and children." "In such condition, lakhs of people have faith in our Prime Minister that in this emergency like situation, he will ask Indian Air force to use helicopters and global master aircraft to sprinkle water all over Delhi and NCR. We also believed that you will also seek the help of talented scientists in artificial cloud formation tp reduce air pollution. 16 lakh people of my Loni and crores of people from NCR will be grateful to you," the letter read. On October 17, Ghaziabad`s Loni (rural area) was placed in the top of the chart of the 108 most polluted cities in the country as per the Central Pollution Control Board`s AQI figures, a day after stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was implemented in the city to tackle the menace of air pollution.

BJP MLA urges PM Narendra Modi to direct IAF to sprinkle water in Delhi NCR 

To improve the worsening air quality in the national capital, the Supreme Court ordered a complete halt to stubble burning around Delhi. Stubble burning is regarded as one of the biggest contributors to air pollution and is generally done during this time of the year.&nbsp;

Responding to the plea filed by activists, the apex court said that people of India are losing "precious years" due to air pollution, adding that this cannot be allowed in a "civilised" country, reports AFP.

The Supreme Court also added that the entire police administration and the police department will be held liable if its latest directions are not followed.&nbsp;

Earlier on Tuesday, Delhi's air quality showed signs of improvement as it moved to "very poor" from the "severe" category. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recordings, Delhi's overall air quality was marked at 397, which falls under the "very poor" category. Delhi's pollution levels started dropping down marginally later on Monday due to an increase in wind speed.&nbsp;

The IMD predicted light rains on November 7 in Delhi which can further improve the air quality.

Northern India, every year during this time faces the menace of smog, due to stubble burning, bursting of crackers, and construction activities as the cooler air gets mixed with pollutants from these activities that make&nbsp;the air toxic and difficult to breathe.&nbsp;

On Monday, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal implemented the odd-even rationing scheme, in which cars with odd and even number plates are allowed to hit streets on alternate days. Kejriwal described the first day of the scheme as a success adding that nearly 15 lakh cars were off the road which prevented pollution and traffic.

However, Vijay Goel, a member of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defied the odd-even rules and called the scheme an election gimmick. Delhi is due for the legislative elections next year.&nbsp;

So far, steps such as banning construction activities in Delhi, parking an air purifier&nbsp;vehicle in front of Taj Mahal have been taken to reduce air pollution levels. Delhi schools are also closed until Wednesday.&nbsp;

As per a report by WHO, 14 Indian cities are a part of 15 most polluted cities in the world, including Delhi. Around 10 lakh people die each year in India due to pollution.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

To improve the worsening air quality in the national capital, the Supreme Court ordered a complete halt to stubble burning around Delhi. Stubble burning is regarded as one of the biggest contributors to air pollution and is generally done during this time of the year.

To improve the worsening air quality in the national capital, the Supreme Court ordered a complete halt to stubble burning around Delhi. Stubble burning is regarded as one of the biggest contributors to air pollution and is generally done during this time of the year. Responding to the plea filed by activists, the apex court said that people of India are losing "precious years" due to air pollution, adding that this cannot be allowed in a "civilised" country, reports AFP. The Supreme Court also added that the entire police administration and the police department will be held liable if its latest directions are not followed. Earlier on Tuesday, Delhi's air quality showed signs of improvement as it moved to "very poor" from the "severe" category. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recordings, Delhi's overall air quality was marked at 397, which falls under the "very poor" category. Delhi's pollution levels started dropping down marginally later on Monday due to an increase in wind speed. The IMD predicted light rains on November 7 in Delhi which can further improve the air quality. Northern India, every year during this time faces the menace of smog, due to stubble burning, bursting of crackers, and construction activities as the cooler air gets mixed with pollutants from these activities that make the air toxic and difficult to breathe. On Monday, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal implemented the odd-even rationing scheme, in which cars with odd and even number plates are allowed to hit streets on alternate days. Kejriwal described the first day of the scheme as a success adding that nearly 15 lakh cars were off the road which prevented pollution and traffic. However, Vijay Goel, a member of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defied the odd-even rules and called the scheme an election gimmick. Delhi is due for the legislative elections next year. So far, steps such as banning construction activities in Delhi, parking an air purifier vehicle in front of Taj Mahal have been taken to reduce air pollution levels. Delhi schools are also closed until Wednesday. As per a report by WHO, 14 Indian cities are a part of 15 most polluted cities in the world, including Delhi. Around 10 lakh people die each year in India due to pollution.

Supreme Court orders complete halt to stubble burning around Delhi

Businessman Robert Vadra on Tuesday took to social media site Facebook to criticise the exemptions granted to vehicles of VIPs by the Delhi government in its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-odd-even-scheme-starts-today-259850">`odd-even scheme`</a> to combat air pollution and stated that all must adhere to the law.

"I do hope this formula of inconveniencing regular commuters, will help in bringing down the levels of pollution in the city, rather than only decrease the traffic congestion on the roads. My one most significant grouse on this scheme is, why have we exempted all VIP vehicles to drive around in any vehicle with any number ODD or EVEN ?!", he wrote in a detailed facebook post.

"Since members of parliaments are elected by the people, and other VIPs in plump posts, are meant to be an example and by adhering to the rules they create, I think it`s clearly hypocritical," Vadra added.

Vadra also demanded for the regulations to be made equally applicable on all the citizens.

"We all must follow the rules for them to know, the difficulties for children, women who cannot drive, and men to make changes in their routines, regular transports also not being available to substitute in commuting. We must revolt for each citizen of Delhi should have to follow the rules and have no special exempt list for VIPs," Vadra further stated in his post.

Kejriwal led government in Delhi has reintroduced the Odd-Even scheme - allowing vehicles of even and odd numbers alternately on Delhi roads in its bid to combat the menace of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-improves-but-still-under-very-poor-category-259978">air pollution</a> in Delhi, but has listed VIPs for exemption.

The scheme, which was enforced from November 4 and will go on till November 15, has evoked mixed reactions from the locals, who fear the scheme may cause them problems while commuting.The government has proposed a fine of Rs 4000 for flouting the scheme.&nbsp;

Businessman Robert Vadra on Tuesday took to social media site Facebook to criticise the exemptions granted to vehicles of VIPs by the Delhi government in its `odd-even scheme` to combat air pollution and stated that all must adhere to the law.

Businessman Robert Vadra on Tuesday took to social media site Facebook to criticise the exemptions granted to vehicles of VIPs by the Delhi government in its `odd-even scheme` to combat air pollution and stated that all must adhere to the law. "I do hope this formula of inconveniencing regular commuters, will help in bringing down the levels of pollution in the city, rather than only decrease the traffic congestion on the roads. My one most significant grouse on this scheme is, why have we exempted all VIP vehicles to drive around in any vehicle with any number ODD or EVEN ?!", he wrote in a detailed facebook post. "Since members of parliaments are elected by the people, and other VIPs in plump posts, are meant to be an example and by adhering to the rules they create, I think it`s clearly hypocritical," Vadra added. Vadra also demanded for the regulations to be made equally applicable on all the citizens. "We all must follow the rules for them to know, the difficulties for children, women who cannot drive, and men to make changes in their routines, regular transports also not being available to substitute in commuting. We must revolt for each citizen of Delhi should have to follow the rules and have no special exempt list for VIPs," Vadra further stated in his post. Kejriwal led government in Delhi has reintroduced the Odd-Even scheme - allowing vehicles of even and odd numbers alternately on Delhi roads in its bid to combat the menace of air pollution in Delhi, but has listed VIPs for exemption. The scheme, which was enforced from November 4 and will go on till November 15, has evoked mixed reactions from the locals, who fear the scheme may cause them problems while commuting.The government has proposed a fine of Rs 4000 for flouting the scheme.

Delhi: Robert Vadra voices concern over VIP exemptions in odd-even scheme

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday accused Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of playing blame-game over rising <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/feeling-breathless-delhi-ncr-residents-complain-as-air-quality-turns-hazardous-259171">pollution level in Delhi</a> and said blaming Punjab and Haryana would not solve the problem.

"Delhi Chief Minister is playing politics and blame-game on pollution levels," he said. He further said, "Instead of blaming Punjab and Haryana, he would think about Modi ji`s proposal to curb pollutants produced by industries in five states (adjacent to Delhi)."

The Minister accused Kejriwal of not releasing the state`s share for the Eastern Peripheral Way and bypass road that could reduce the pollution levels in the national capital.

"The state government had to release Rs 35 crore but they did not give it. They had to release Rs 1000 crore on a court order," Javadekar said.

Earlier today, Kejriwal blamed the Haryana and Punjab governments for rising pollution levels in the national capital region.

"The (Manohar Lal) Khattar and Captain (Amarinder Singh) governments are forcing farmers to burn stubble, which is causing severe pollution in Delhi," he tweeted.

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खट्टर और कैप्टन सरकारें अपने किसानों को पराली जलाने पर मजबूर कर रहीं हैं जिसकी वजह से दिल्ली में भारी प्रदूषण है 
 
कल पंजाब और हरियाणा भवन पर लोगों ने प्रदर्शन कर वहां की सरकारों के प्रति अपना रोष प्रकट किया। <a href="https://t.co/p4MfgVND4C">https://t.co/p4MfgVND4C</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1190095635615059969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The air quality has been "hazardous" in the national capital for the past several days. According to Punjab Remote Sensing Centre (PRSC), straw burning in the two states has increased this year.

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday accused Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of playing blame-game over rising pollution level in Delhi and said blaming Punjab and Haryana would not solve the problem.

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday accused Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of playing blame-game over rising pollution level in Delhi and said blaming Punjab and Haryana would not solve the problem. "Delhi Chief Minister is playing politics and blame-game on pollution levels," he said. He further said, "Instead of blaming Punjab and Haryana, he would think about Modi ji`s proposal to curb pollutants produced by industries in five states (adjacent to Delhi)." The Minister accused Kejriwal of not releasing the state`s share for the Eastern Peripheral Way and bypass road that could reduce the pollution levels in the national capital. "The state government had to release Rs 35 crore but they did not give it. They had to release Rs 1000 crore on a court order," Javadekar said. Earlier today, Kejriwal blamed the Haryana and Punjab governments for rising pollution levels in the national capital region. "The (Manohar Lal) Khattar and Captain (Amarinder Singh) governments are forcing farmers to burn stubble, which is causing severe pollution in Delhi," he tweeted. खट्टर और कैप्टन सरकारें अपने किसानों को पराली जलाने पर मजबूर कर रहीं हैं जिसकी वजह से दिल्ली में भारी प्रदूषण है कल पंजाब और हरियाणा भवन पर लोगों ने प्रदर्शन कर वहां की सरकारों के प्रति अपना रोष प्रकट किया। https://t.co/p4MfgVND4C — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 1, 2019 × The air quality has been "hazardous" in the national capital for the past several days. According to Punjab Remote Sensing Centre (PRSC), straw burning in the two states has increased this year.

Delhi pollution: Javadekar accuses Kejriwal of playing blame-game

Delhi witnesses public health emergency as air quality dips to 'severe'

Even as Indian Prime Minister met over 20 European Parliamentarians who will be going to Jammu and Kashmir, New Delhi has highlighted that it is keen on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (India-EU FTA).&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi, Speaking to European MPs called for "early conclusion of a fair and balanced Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) " which he called a "priority for the government."

Formal talks were suspended on the proposed FTA in 2013, an FTA which will help both India and Europe in a major way. Since 2013, India, EU has met 9 times informally to talk about the FTA with August 5, 2019, was the last time both sides met to discuss the issue.

Key issues why talks failed were on customs duty on wine, auto manufacturing and labour issues. While India did not want an FTA without investments being part of it, the EU wanted FTA on goods. On European cars, Brussels said it wants to sell full manufactured cars to be sold in India to which New Delhi pointed out to its policy of local manufacturing.

High customs on wine in India was another thorny issue as well as EU raising the issue of labour and human rights issues. EU also wanted to be part of the government procurement, which India is not keen on.

Next year the 15th India-EU summit is expected to happen in Brussels, which can spur the talks on the FTA. The last India EU summit happened in 2017.&nbsp;

The development on EU India FTA comes even as next week could see mega RCEP FTA being inked in Bangkok on the sidelines of East Asia summit. India is keen to be part of RCEP whose part will be China, ASEAN, Australia etc.

Even as Indian Prime Minister met over 20 European Parliamentarians who will be going to Jammu and Kashmir, New Delhi has highlighted that it is keen on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (India-EU FTA).

Even as Indian Prime Minister met over 20 European Parliamentarians who will be going to Jammu and Kashmir, New Delhi has highlighted that it is keen on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (India-EU FTA). PM Narendra Modi, Speaking to European MPs called for "early conclusion of a fair and balanced Bilateral Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) " which he called a "priority for the government." Formal talks were suspended on the proposed FTA in 2013, an FTA which will help both India and Europe in a major way. Since 2013, India, EU has met 9 times informally to talk about the FTA with August 5, 2019, was the last time both sides met to discuss the issue. Key issues why talks failed were on customs duty on wine, auto manufacturing and labour issues. While India did not want an FTA without investments being part of it, the EU wanted FTA on goods. On European cars, Brussels said it wants to sell full manufactured cars to be sold in India to which New Delhi pointed out to its policy of local manufacturing. High customs on wine in India was another thorny issue as well as EU raising the issue of labour and human rights issues. EU also wanted to be part of the government procurement, which India is not keen on. Next year the 15th India-EU summit is expected to happen in Brussels, which can spur the talks on the FTA. The last India EU summit happened in 2017. The development on EU India FTA comes even as next week could see mega RCEP FTA being inked in Bangkok on the sidelines of East Asia summit. India is keen to be part of RCEP whose part will be China, ASEAN, Australia etc.

New Delhi keen for early conclusion of India-European Union free trade agreement

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday.

The marshals will resume duty from tomorrow onwards.

"From tomorrow, a bus marshal will be deployed on every bus in the city. They will render security and assistance in case of medical emergencies. Over 13000 bus marshals have been appointed, around 10 per cent of which are women," Kejriwal told reporters here.

The Chief Minister hailed the move as the "largest attempt in the world to ensure safety in buses".

"Delhi is the only city in the country where marshals have been appointed in buses to ensure the safety of women. CCTV camera and street lights are also being installed across the city. Now, women will feel safer in Delhi," he added.

Kejriwal also mentioned that bus rides will be free for women in the city from tomorrow onward.

The chief minister had earlier said that ex-home guards will be appointed and deployed as marshals in every bus in the city to ensure the safety of women. He had said that the recruitment process is likely to complete before Diwali.

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday.

Over 13,000 marshals have been appointed to ensure the safety of women in the buses plying in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday. The marshals will resume duty from tomorrow onwards. "From tomorrow, a bus marshal will be deployed on every bus in the city. They will render security and assistance in case of medical emergencies. Over 13000 bus marshals have been appointed, around 10 per cent of which are women," Kejriwal told reporters here. The Chief Minister hailed the move as the "largest attempt in the world to ensure safety in buses". "Delhi is the only city in the country where marshals have been appointed in buses to ensure the safety of women. CCTV camera and street lights are also being installed across the city. Now, women will feel safer in Delhi," he added. Kejriwal also mentioned that bus rides will be free for women in the city from tomorrow onward. The chief minister had earlier said that ex-home guards will be appointed and deployed as marshals in every bus in the city to ensure the safety of women. He had said that the recruitment process is likely to complete before Diwali.

Marshals to be deployed on Delhi buses from tomorrow to ensure women safety: Arvind Kejriwal

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-in-delhi-noida-very-poor-post-diwali-258435">air quality deteriorated</a> in the national capital after Diwali, Delhi Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot on Monday assured of taking all "necessary" steps if the situation continues for the next 48 hours.

Speaking to ANI, Gahlot said, "We have taken the steps to combat the situation and they are also being implemented. If the situation continues for the next 48 hours, we will take further necessary steps."

The East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) earlier in the day sprinkled water on roads in Anand Vihar area, to reduce dust as a pollution control measure.

Delhiites complained about the difficulty in breathing and of burning sensation in the eyes as they woke up today.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall air quality of the national capital is in the higher-end of 'very poor' category.

However, Gahlot said that air pollution was comparatively better this year after Diwali than that of 2018.

"This time, the air pollution level is comparatively better than the last Diwali. It is high time to realise the situation. We must celebrate Diwali but we also have to take care of our environment," he added.

On November 9 last year, overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 428, which falls under the 'hazardous' category.

Speaking on the appointment of marshals in Delhi government buses, the Environment Minister said, "Nowhere in the world according to our knowledge have appointed bus marshals at this scale like in Delhi for the security of women. They will also get to travel for free in DTC buses from tomorrow." (ANI)

As air quality deteriorated in the national capital after Diwali, Delhi Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot on Monday assured of taking all "necessary" steps if the situation continues for the next 48 hours.

As air quality deteriorated in the national capital after Diwali, Delhi Environment Minister Kailash Gahlot on Monday assured of taking all "necessary" steps if the situation continues for the next 48 hours. Speaking to ANI, Gahlot said, "We have taken the steps to combat the situation and they are also being implemented. If the situation continues for the next 48 hours, we will take further necessary steps." The East Delhi Municipal Corporation (EDMC) earlier in the day sprinkled water on roads in Anand Vihar area, to reduce dust as a pollution control measure. Delhiites complained about the difficulty in breathing and of burning sensation in the eyes as they woke up today. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall air quality of the national capital is in the higher-end of 'very poor' category. However, Gahlot said that air pollution was comparatively better this year after Diwali than that of 2018. "This time, the air pollution level is comparatively better than the last Diwali. It is high time to realise the situation. We must celebrate Diwali but we also have to take care of our environment," he added. On November 9 last year, overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of Delhi was recorded at 428, which falls under the 'hazardous' category. Speaking on the appointment of marshals in Delhi government buses, the Environment Minister said, "Nowhere in the world according to our knowledge have appointed bus marshals at this scale like in Delhi for the security of women. They will also get to travel for free in DTC buses from tomorrow." (ANI)

Will take all necessary steps if air quality continues to deteriorate: Delhi Environment Minister

Pollution levels in New Delhi have hit their worst for the second time in October, earning a "very poor" rating and indicating air quality could deteriorate further after the festival of Diwali.

The air quality index, which measures the concentration of poisonous particulate matter, touched 388 in New Delhi on Friday, according to US&nbsp;embassy data, way above the "safe" limit of 60.

The index measures the concentration of tiny poisonous particulate matter,&nbsp;PM2.5, particles that are less than 2.5 microns in diameter and can be carried deep into the lungs, causing deadly diseases including cancer and cardiac problems.

Senior government officials, who did not wish to be identified because they are not authorised to talk to media, said the main reason behind the sharp deterioration in air quality was a lack of wind speed.

A thick, toxic haze could envelop New Delhi and neighbouring cities if the authorities fail to clamp down on fireworks to celebrate Diwali, the festival of light that falls on Sunday.

Air quality usually starts worsening in New Delhi ahead of Diwali.

The Supreme Court last year allowed the use of only "safe and green firecrackers", for a maximum two hours, and only in designated areas such as parks, aiming to lessen the risk to health.

But authorities failed to enforce the decree and crackers continued to crackle late into the night. As a result, PM 2.5 levels in some parts of the city soared to 689 the next day, indicating emergency conditions.

To avoid a repeat of last year and wean residents away from bursting tens of thousands of firecrackers, New Delhi authorities are offering residents laser light shows to mark Diwali this weekend.

Other than the smog triggered by firecrackers, smoke from the surrounding countryside, where farmers at this time of the year burn the crop residue in their fields to prepare for winter sowing, causes pollution in New Delhi and surrounding cities.

Among a host of measures to curb pollution, the city government of New Delhi has decided to restrict the use of private cars between November 4-15.

Some of the other steps include banning diesel-run generators and the burning of garbage.

Pollution levels in New Delhi have hit their worst for the second time in October, earning a "very poor" rating and indicating air quality could deteriorate further after the festival of Diwali.

Pollution levels in New Delhi have hit their worst for the second time in October, earning a "very poor" rating and indicating air quality could deteriorate further after the festival of Diwali. The air quality index, which measures the concentration of poisonous particulate matter, touched 388 in New Delhi on Friday, according to US embassy data, way above the "safe" limit of 60. The index measures the concentration of tiny poisonous particulate matter, PM2.5, particles that are less than 2.5 microns in diameter and can be carried deep into the lungs, causing deadly diseases including cancer and cardiac problems. Senior government officials, who did not wish to be identified because they are not authorised to talk to media, said the main reason behind the sharp deterioration in air quality was a lack of wind speed. A thick, toxic haze could envelop New Delhi and neighbouring cities if the authorities fail to clamp down on fireworks to celebrate Diwali, the festival of light that falls on Sunday. Air quality usually starts worsening in New Delhi ahead of Diwali. The Supreme Court last year allowed the use of only "safe and green firecrackers", for a maximum two hours, and only in designated areas such as parks, aiming to lessen the risk to health. But authorities failed to enforce the decree and crackers continued to crackle late into the night. As a result, PM 2.5 levels in some parts of the city soared to 689 the next day, indicating emergency conditions. To avoid a repeat of last year and wean residents away from bursting tens of thousands of firecrackers, New Delhi authorities are offering residents laser light shows to mark Diwali this weekend. Other than the smog triggered by firecrackers, smoke from the surrounding countryside, where farmers at this time of the year burn the crop residue in their fields to prepare for winter sowing, causes pollution in New Delhi and surrounding cities. Among a host of measures to curb pollution, the city government of New Delhi has decided to restrict the use of private cars between November 4-15. Some of the other steps include banning diesel-run generators and the burning of garbage.

Pollution levels in New Delhi hit the worst this year

At least nine people were killed Sunday in firing along the de facto India-Pakistan border in Kashmir, officials said, adding to the spike in deaths in recent days as New Delhi eased a curfew in the disputed region.

Tensions escalated between the nuclear-armed neighbours after India revoked Kashmir's autonomy on August 5 and imposed movement and communications restrictions to quell unrest.

Officials from the two countries accused each other of firing mortar rounds and small arms along the so-called Line of Control.

"Two soldiers and a civilian were killed and three others injured in the unprovoked fire by Pakistan," Indian Army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia told AFP of the "unprovoked" fire in the mountainous Tangdhar region of Kupwara district.

Several homes were damaged in the attack and three civilians were being treated in a hospital, he added.

Officials in Pakistan-administered Kashmir told AFP six civilians were killed and eight others wounded in Muzaffarabad and Neelum Valley.

"Mortar shells hit civilian houses and have so far martyred five people in Muzzafarabad and wounded six others," said Muzaffarabad deputy commissioner Badar Munir said.

Munir said the dead included three members of one family.

Neelum Valley official Akhtar Ayub said one civilian was killed and two injured.

The shelling came after five people were killed in Indian Kashmir on Wednesday, two days after New Delhi restored mobile phone and text services.

Indian authorities said repeatedly during the lockdown that Kashmir has been mostly peaceful.

Kashmir has been split between India and Pakistan since 1947 and was the spark of two wars and numerous skirmishes.

An armed rebellion against Indian rule has raged in the valley since 1989, claiming tens of thousands of lives, mostly civilians. 
&nbsp;

At least nine people were killed Sunday in firing along the de facto India-Pakistan border in Kashmir, officials said, adding to the spike in deaths in recent days as New Delhi eased a curfew in the disputed region.

At least nine people were killed Sunday in firing along the de facto India-Pakistan border in Kashmir, officials said, adding to the spike in deaths in recent days as New Delhi eased a curfew in the disputed region. Tensions escalated between the nuclear-armed neighbours after India revoked Kashmir's autonomy on August 5 and imposed movement and communications restrictions to quell unrest. Officials from the two countries accused each other of firing mortar rounds and small arms along the so-called Line of Control. "Two soldiers and a civilian were killed and three others injured in the unprovoked fire by Pakistan," Indian Army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia told AFP of the "unprovoked" fire in the mountainous Tangdhar region of Kupwara district. Several homes were damaged in the attack and three civilians were being treated in a hospital, he added. Officials in Pakistan-administered Kashmir told AFP six civilians were killed and eight others wounded in Muzaffarabad and Neelum Valley. "Mortar shells hit civilian houses and have so far martyred five people in Muzzafarabad and wounded six others," said Muzaffarabad deputy commissioner Badar Munir said. Munir said the dead included three members of one family. Neelum Valley official Akhtar Ayub said one civilian was killed and two injured. The shelling came after five people were killed in Indian Kashmir on Wednesday, two days after New Delhi restored mobile phone and text services. Indian authorities said repeatedly during the lockdown that Kashmir has been mostly peaceful. Kashmir has been split between India and Pakistan since 1947 and was the spark of two wars and numerous skirmishes. An armed rebellion against Indian rule has raged in the valley since 1989, claiming tens of thousands of lives, mostly civilians.

Nine killed in fresh firing across Kashmir border

Mexico has deported over 300 Indian nationals to New Delhi, the National Migration Institute (INM) said late on Wednesday, calling it unprecedented transatlantic deportation.

The move follows a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/migrants-will-pay-the-price-of-mexicos-tariff-deal-with-trump-226455">deal Mexico struck</a> with the United States in June, vowing to significantly curb US-bound migration in exchange for averting US&nbsp;tariffs on Mexican exports.

"It is unprecedented in INM's history - in either form or the number of people - for a transatlantic air transport like the one carried out on this day," INM said in a statement.

The 310 men and one woman that INM said were in Mexico illegally were sent on a chartered flight, accompanied by federal immigration agents and Mexico's National Guard. They arrived in New Delhi on Friday.

Most of the deportees were from India's northern Punjab state, an Indian official said. Police will run checks if any of them had a criminal history, another official said.

INM said the deportees had been scattered in eight states around Mexico, including in southern Mexico from where many Indian migrants enter the country, hoping to transit to the US&nbsp;border.

The backlog of migrants in southern Mexico has grown as officials have stopped issuing permits for them to cross the country, said Caitlyn Yates, a research coordinator at IBI Consultants who has studied increasing numbers of US-bound Asian and African migrants arriving in Mexico.

"This type of deportation in Mexico is the first of its kind but likely to continue," Yates said.

Mexico has deported over 300 Indian nationals to New Delhi, the National Migration Institute (INM) said late on Wednesday, calling it unprecedented transatlantic deportation.

Mexico has deported over 300 Indian nationals to New Delhi, the National Migration Institute (INM) said late on Wednesday, calling it unprecedented transatlantic deportation. The move follows a deal Mexico struck with the United States in June, vowing to significantly curb US-bound migration in exchange for averting US tariffs on Mexican exports. "It is unprecedented in INM's history - in either form or the number of people - for a transatlantic air transport like the one carried out on this day," INM said in a statement. The 310 men and one woman that INM said were in Mexico illegally were sent on a chartered flight, accompanied by federal immigration agents and Mexico's National Guard. They arrived in New Delhi on Friday. Most of the deportees were from India's northern Punjab state, an Indian official said. Police will run checks if any of them had a criminal history, another official said. INM said the deportees had been scattered in eight states around Mexico, including in southern Mexico from where many Indian migrants enter the country, hoping to transit to the US border. The backlog of migrants in southern Mexico has grown as officials have stopped issuing permits for them to cross the country, said Caitlyn Yates, a research coordinator at IBI Consultants who has studied increasing numbers of US-bound Asian and African migrants arriving in Mexico. "This type of deportation in Mexico is the first of its kind but likely to continue," Yates said.

Mexico deports over 300 Indian nationals to New Delhi

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship.

"Building upon the strategic trust EAM @DrSJaishankar called upon HM King Willem-Alexander &amp; HM Queen Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the Netherlands and had fruitful discussions on expanding our relationship," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

The royal couple is on a five-day visit to India. Earlier in the day, they met President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon their arrival on Sunday night, Willem-Alexander and Maxima were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them.

Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala.

The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi.

The Netherlands is the partner country for the event. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019).

TheNetherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017.

The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship. "Building upon the strategic trust EAM @DrSJaishankar called upon HM King Willem-Alexander & HM Queen Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the Netherlands and had fruitful discussions on expanding our relationship," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. The royal couple is on a five-day visit to India. Earlier in the day, they met President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon their arrival on Sunday night, Willem-Alexander and Maxima were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them. Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala. The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi. The Netherlands is the partner country for the event. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019). TheNetherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017. The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar meets Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima

People turned up in large numbers outside Palam Technical Airport to welcome <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-pm-modis-positive-development-driven-unga-address-differed-from-pak-pms-hate-speech-252559">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> who is returning after a week-long visit US visit. 
 
People, some of them who came wearing colourful clothes raised slogans "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi"&nbsp;as they danced to beats of drums at the cultural programme organised by the BJP Delhi unit at the Palam airport. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari was also present in the event. 
 
"We are here to receive to Modi Ji. We are very excited to see him," Surya Kumar, a BJP worker told ANI. 
 
Holding national flags in their hands, people chanted 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and said Modi brought glory to the country. The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive at 8 PM. 
 
However, some commuters <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/buddha-and-not-yudh-pm-modis-message-of-peace-at-unga-252539">faced inconvenience</a> as the programme led to a massive traffic snarl on the Delhi-Gurgaon road. 
 
Delhi Police has put into place elaborate security arrangements for the Prime Minister's return. 
 
"Nine companies of para-military forces have been deployed in the national capital. Anti-terror measures have also been taken. The security arrangements will be in order in coordination with all agencies. Snipers will be deployed on rooftops," MS Randhawa, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Delhi said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-is-the-biggest-global-challenge-for-humanitys-sake-lets-unite-against-terrorism-says-pm-narendra-modi-at-unga-252493">Modi on Friday emplaned for New Delhi from New York</a>, after delivering a speech at the 74th session of the United Nations&nbsp;General Assembly.

People turned up in large numbers outside Palam Technical Airport to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is returning after a week-long visit US visit. People, some of them who came wearing colourful clothes raised slogans "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi" as they danced to beats of drums at the cultural programme organised by the BJP Delhi unit at the Palam airport.

People turned up in large numbers outside Palam Technical Airport to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is returning after a week-long visit US visit. People, some of them who came wearing colourful clothes raised slogans "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi" as they danced to beats of drums at the cultural programme organised by the BJP Delhi unit at the Palam airport. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari was also present in the event. "We are here to receive to Modi Ji. We are very excited to see him," Surya Kumar, a BJP worker told ANI. Holding national flags in their hands, people chanted 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and said Modi brought glory to the country. The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive at 8 PM. However, some commuters faced inconvenience as the programme led to a massive traffic snarl on the Delhi-Gurgaon road. Delhi Police has put into place elaborate security arrangements for the Prime Minister's return. "Nine companies of para-military forces have been deployed in the national capital. Anti-terror measures have also been taken. The security arrangements will be in order in coordination with all agencies. Snipers will be deployed on rooftops," MS Randhawa, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Delhi said. Modi on Friday emplaned for New Delhi from New York, after delivering a speech at the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Delhi: People gather in large numbers outside airport to welcome PM Modi

India is a "close and trusted friend" of Uzbekistan and both countries share fast-growing and dynamic relations, said Uzbek Ambassador Farhod Arziev here on Sunday.

"I should mention the dynamic, fast-growing and deepening cooperation between India and Uzbekistan. India is our strategic partner," said Arziev told ANI.

"We really appreciate and value this relationship. India is our close and trusted friend with whom we shared the centuries of culture and civilisation. India and Uzbekistan have wide-scale cooperation," he added

Arziev thanked New Delhi for helping Uzbekistan in establishing an IT park.

"With India, we have inaugurated the IT Park in Uzbekistan. We are really thankful to India for helping us in establishing that park," he said.

Asserting that India and Uzbekistan are strengthening their ties, the envoy said that Indian entrepreneurs are establishing the joint investment programme including in the area of pharmaceuticals, agriculture, hotels, business education, petrochemical and many others.

"We have seen the very active involvement of India entrepreneurs who are entering the Uzbek market. We are very happy to see this dynamism," he said 
As Uzbekistan is celebrating 28the Independence Day, Arziev extended greeting to all citizens.

Arziev said,&nbsp;"On the occasion of 28th Independence Day, my greetings to all Uzbek citizens... Uzbekistan and India have a strategic partnership, we have recently opened two universities in Uzbekistan".

India is a "close and trusted friend" of Uzbekistan and both countries share fast-growing and dynamic relations, said Uzbek Ambassador Farhod Arziev here on Sunday.

India is a "close and trusted friend" of Uzbekistan and both countries share fast-growing and dynamic relations, said Uzbek Ambassador Farhod Arziev here on Sunday. "I should mention the dynamic, fast-growing and deepening cooperation between India and Uzbekistan. India is our strategic partner," said Arziev told ANI. "We really appreciate and value this relationship. India is our close and trusted friend with whom we shared the centuries of culture and civilisation. India and Uzbekistan have wide-scale cooperation," he added Arziev thanked New Delhi for helping Uzbekistan in establishing an IT park. "With India, we have inaugurated the IT Park in Uzbekistan. We are really thankful to India for helping us in establishing that park," he said. Asserting that India and Uzbekistan are strengthening their ties, the envoy said that Indian entrepreneurs are establishing the joint investment programme including in the area of pharmaceuticals, agriculture, hotels, business education, petrochemical and many others. "We have seen the very active involvement of India entrepreneurs who are entering the Uzbek market. We are very happy to see this dynamism," he said As Uzbekistan is celebrating 28the Independence Day, Arziev extended greeting to all citizens. Arziev said, "On the occasion of 28th Independence Day, my greetings to all Uzbek citizens... Uzbekistan and India have a strategic partnership, we have recently opened two universities in Uzbekistan".

India 'close and trusted friend' of Uzbekistan: Ambassador Farhod Arziev

Russia on Wednesday told Pakistan that there is no alternative to resolve the Kashmir issue but "bilaterally through political and diplomatic means."

"The statement was made during a phone call that<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/amid-tensions-pakistan-foreign-minister-shah-mehmood-qureshi-departs-for-china-241653"> Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi</a> made to his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov."

During the conversation, the situation in South Asia was discussed amid the worsening relations between Pakistan and India after the decision made by New Delhi to change the legal status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The Russian side emphasized the need for de-escalation of tensions, and that there is no alternative to resolve differences between Pakistan and India except bilaterally through political and diplomatic means.

&nbsp;Representatives of Russia to the UN adhere to this consistent position," a statement by Russian Foreign Ministery read."

The call was made as part of Pakistan's initiative to outreach world leaders over the Indian government's decision to scrap article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Similar calls were earlier made by country's Prime Minister Imran Khan to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Malaysian PM Mahathir Bin Mohamad, and Iranian President Hassan RouhaniRussia had earlier supported India over the abrogation of Article 370, saying that the action taken by the country was under the constitutional framework international community has urged both countries to exercise restraint and ensure that peace and stability prevail across the Line of Control (LoC).

Russia on Wednesday told Pakistan that there is no alternative to resolve the Kashmir issue but "bilaterally through political and diplomatic means." "The statement was made during a phone call that Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi made to his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

Russia on Wednesday told Pakistan that there is no alternative to resolve the Kashmir issue but "bilaterally through political and diplomatic means." "The statement was made during a phone call that Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi made to his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov." During the conversation, the situation in South Asia was discussed amid the worsening relations between Pakistan and India after the decision made by New Delhi to change the legal status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Russian side emphasized the need for de-escalation of tensions, and that there is no alternative to resolve differences between Pakistan and India except bilaterally through political and diplomatic means. Representatives of Russia to the UN adhere to this consistent position," a statement by Russian Foreign Ministery read." The call was made as part of Pakistan's initiative to outreach world leaders over the Indian government's decision to scrap article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Similar calls were earlier made by country's Prime Minister Imran Khan to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Malaysian PM Mahathir Bin Mohamad, and Iranian President Hassan RouhaniRussia had earlier supported India over the abrogation of Article 370, saying that the action taken by the country was under the constitutional framework international community has urged both countries to exercise restraint and ensure that peace and stability prevail across the Line of Control (LoC).

Resolve Kashmir issue bilaterally with India: Russia tells Pakistan

Three days after Pakistan announced that it was downgrading diplomatic ties with India after New Delhi decided to abrogate Article 370 which accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria left Islamabad on Saturday.&nbsp;

All the Indian high commission officials bid farewell to Bisaria at India House prior to his departure. He will be arriving in India via Abu Dhabi on a flight on Sunday.

Pakistan on August 7 expelled Indian envoy and said it won't be sending the newly appointed Pakistan envoy to India Moin Ul Haq to New Delhi to take charge.

India described the move ''unilateral''.&nbsp;

"The action taken by Pakistan is unilateral. weather its Samjahuta express, trade relations, asking us to withdraw high commission, this has been done without consulting us," the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kamar said in his weekly press conference on Friday.&nbsp;

India, in a measured response to Pakistan's knee-jerk reaction, has urged Islamabad to reconsider its decisions.

"We have regretted the steps which they have announced. Our sense is whatever is being announced by Pakistan is to present a very alarming picture of our bilateral relations", Raveesh Kumar added.

Three days after Pakistan announced that it was downgrading diplomatic ties with India after New Delhi decided to abrogate Article 370 which accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria left Islamabad on Saturday.

Three days after Pakistan announced that it was downgrading diplomatic ties with India after New Delhi decided to abrogate Article 370 which accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria left Islamabad on Saturday. All the Indian high commission officials bid farewell to Bisaria at India House prior to his departure. He will be arriving in India via Abu Dhabi on a flight on Sunday. Pakistan on August 7 expelled Indian envoy and said it won't be sending the newly appointed Pakistan envoy to India Moin Ul Haq to New Delhi to take charge. India described the move ''unilateral''. "The action taken by Pakistan is unilateral. weather its Samjahuta express, trade relations, asking us to withdraw high commission, this has been done without consulting us," the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kamar said in his weekly press conference on Friday. India, in a measured response to Pakistan's knee-jerk reaction, has urged Islamabad to reconsider its decisions. "We have regretted the steps which they have announced. Our sense is whatever is being announced by Pakistan is to present a very alarming picture of our bilateral relations", Raveesh Kumar added.

Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria leaves Islamabad  

A special 'jatha' of around 500 Sikh pilgrims crossed over to Pakistan for Nankana Sahib on Tuesday to begin celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev from his birthplace on August 1.

The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi issued visas to the pilgrims who are partaking in the special 'jatha'.

"These visas have been granted over and above the issuance of thousands of visas every year under the framework of Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974," the high commission said in a statement.

"Government of Pakistan also believes in the policy of promoting visits to religious shrines and people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and India," it said.

On July 14, India and Pakistan had held the second round of bilateral talks to narrow down their differences on the corridor for travel of Sikh pilgrims from Dera Baba Nanak Sahib in Punjab to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan.

Both sides said that they had agreed to a majority of modalities for the smooth passage of the pilgrims.

Once opened, the three-kilometres corridor will allow Sikh pilgrims direct access to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, where Guru Nanak Dev passed away in 1539.

The route is expected to be completed by September-end.&nbsp;

A special 'jatha' of around 500 Sikh pilgrims crossed over to Pakistan for Nankana Sahib on Tuesday to begin celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev from his birthplace on August 1.

A special 'jatha' of around 500 Sikh pilgrims crossed over to Pakistan for Nankana Sahib on Tuesday to begin celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev from his birthplace on August 1. The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi issued visas to the pilgrims who are partaking in the special 'jatha'. "These visas have been granted over and above the issuance of thousands of visas every year under the framework of Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974," the high commission said in a statement. "Government of Pakistan also believes in the policy of promoting visits to religious shrines and people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and India," it said. On July 14, India and Pakistan had held the second round of bilateral talks to narrow down their differences on the corridor for travel of Sikh pilgrims from Dera Baba Nanak Sahib in Punjab to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan. Both sides said that they had agreed to a majority of modalities for the smooth passage of the pilgrims. Once opened, the three-kilometres corridor will allow Sikh pilgrims direct access to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, where Guru Nanak Dev passed away in 1539. The route is expected to be completed by September-end.

500 Sikh pilgrims cross Pakistan for Guru Nanak Dev's 550th birth celebrations

Onion prices in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-pm-hasina-accuses-myanmar-of-defying-promise-over-repatriation-of-rohingyas-225839">Bangladesh</a> have doubled over the past two weeks after floods ravaged the crop and as imports from top supplier India became expensive after New Delhi withdrew incentives for overseas sales, industry officials told Reuters.

Onions are used as the base for traditional dishes across Asia such as biryani in Pakistan and India, belacan in Malaysia and fish curry in Bangladesh.

Prices in Bangladesh doubled to 50 takas ($0.59) per kg because of floods and traders say they could rise further ahead of the Eid-ul-Adha festival in August when demand usually goes up for the vegetable.

"The upward trend due to supply shortage could continue over the next few months," said Dhaka-based trader Hazi Shahid, adding the country has to raise imports from India to calm prices.

Severe flooding has killed at least 61 people, displaced nearly 800,000 and inundated thousands of homes across one-third of Bangladesh, government officials said on Tuesday, after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains.&nbsp;

The price rise has become a headache for the government of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which may plan sales of subsidised onions through the state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB).

"The price hike is like a nightmare for me. If prices of onions don`t come down soon, we`ll start selling in the open markets through the TCB," Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi said. Indian suppliers have fallen after New Delhi discouraged exports.

India withdrew 10 per cent export incentives on onion in June after the prices of the bulb jumped 47 per cent in a month in the local market due to dwindling supplies.&nbsp;

As the subsidy has been withdrawn, Indian exporters have to charge more for overseas sales, said Ajit Shah, president of the Mumbai-based Onion Exporters` Association.

Even in India supplies are limited and the planting of summer-sown crops has been delayed in some areas due to low rainfall, Shah said.

India`s monsoon rains to date have been 19per cent below average since the season began on June 1, according to the India Meteorological Department.

India exported 2.2 million tonnes of fresh onions in the 2018/19 fiscal year ended on March 30.

During the same time, Bangladesh imported 578,111 tonnes of onions from India, according to data compiled by India`s Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority.

Onion prices in Bangladesh are unlikely to come down unless prices fall in India with a bumper production, said an exporter based in Kolkata, adding, however, that the "Indian crop is not looking great due to uneven distribution of monsoon rains." 
&nbsp;

Onion prices in Bangladesh have doubled over the past two weeks after floods ravaged the crop and as imports from top supplier India became expensive after New Delhi withdrew incentives for overseas sales, industry officials told Reuters.

Onion prices in Bangladesh have doubled over the past two weeks after floods ravaged the crop and as imports from top supplier India became expensive after New Delhi withdrew incentives for overseas sales, industry officials told Reuters. Onions are used as the base for traditional dishes across Asia such as biryani in Pakistan and India, belacan in Malaysia and fish curry in Bangladesh. Prices in Bangladesh doubled to 50 takas ($0.59) per kg because of floods and traders say they could rise further ahead of the Eid-ul-Adha festival in August when demand usually goes up for the vegetable. "The upward trend due to supply shortage could continue over the next few months," said Dhaka-based trader Hazi Shahid, adding the country has to raise imports from India to calm prices. Severe flooding has killed at least 61 people, displaced nearly 800,000 and inundated thousands of homes across one-third of Bangladesh, government officials said on Tuesday, after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains. The price rise has become a headache for the government of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which may plan sales of subsidised onions through the state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB). "The price hike is like a nightmare for me. If prices of onions don`t come down soon, we`ll start selling in the open markets through the TCB," Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi said. Indian suppliers have fallen after New Delhi discouraged exports. India withdrew 10 per cent export incentives on onion in June after the prices of the bulb jumped 47 per cent in a month in the local market due to dwindling supplies. As the subsidy has been withdrawn, Indian exporters have to charge more for overseas sales, said Ajit Shah, president of the Mumbai-based Onion Exporters` Association. Even in India supplies are limited and the planting of summer-sown crops has been delayed in some areas due to low rainfall, Shah said. India`s monsoon rains to date have been 19per cent below average since the season began on June 1, according to the India Meteorological Department. India exported 2.2 million tonnes of fresh onions in the 2018/19 fiscal year ended on March 30. During the same time, Bangladesh imported 578,111 tonnes of onions from India, according to data compiled by India`s Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority. Onion prices in Bangladesh are unlikely to come down unless prices fall in India with a bumper production, said an exporter based in Kolkata, adding, however, that the "Indian crop is not looking great due to uneven distribution of monsoon rains."

Onion prices surge in Bangladesh on floods, lower Indian supply

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) will produce prime accused in the multi-crore <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/special-investigation-team-brings-ima-owner-mansoor-khan-to-india-237016">IMA ponzi scam, Mansoor Khan</a>, in court today to extend his judicial custody further.&nbsp;

His medical test was done yesterday at Victoria Hospital, Bengaluru. Earlier on Sunday Khan was taken to Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences for a check-up after he complained of chest pain and palpitations.

&nbsp;According to Director of the institute, CN Manjunath, anxiety and stress could be the reason behind the deterioration in his health. On Saturday, a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court sent Khan to ED custody till July 23.

Khan was arrested and questioned after he landed at New Delhi airport from Dubai in the early hours of Friday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ima-jewels-case-interpol-issues-blue-corner-notice-against-founder-mansoor-khan-229673">The owner and founder of I Monetary Advisory (IMA)</a> travelled from Dubai to New Delhi after the SIT located and persuaded him to come to India and submit before the law.&nbsp;

Khan had last month fled the country after several complaints were registered against him in connection with the scam. Later, he released a video expressing his desire to come back to the country and participate in the investigation.&nbsp;

 
An 11-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by DIG B R Ravikanthe Gowda is probing the alleged fraud by the firm.

Both the ED and SIT had issued lookout notice against Khan. The IMA Jewels is embroiled in a case where the firm had allegedly cheated a large number of investors after promising them impressive returns on their deposits.

Khan is facing investigation for allegedly duping 40,000 investors especially Muslims in the state. He had claimed that he gave Rs 400 crore to Congress leader Roshan Baig which he was not returning.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) will produce prime accused in the multi-crore IMA ponzi scam, Mansoor Khan, in court today to extend his judicial custody further.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) will produce prime accused in the multi-crore IMA ponzi scam, Mansoor Khan, in court today to extend his judicial custody further. His medical test was done yesterday at Victoria Hospital, Bengaluru. Earlier on Sunday Khan was taken to Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences for a check-up after he complained of chest pain and palpitations. According to Director of the institute, CN Manjunath, anxiety and stress could be the reason behind the deterioration in his health. On Saturday, a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court sent Khan to ED custody till July 23. Khan was arrested and questioned after he landed at New Delhi airport from Dubai in the early hours of Friday. The owner and founder of I Monetary Advisory (IMA) travelled from Dubai to New Delhi after the SIT located and persuaded him to come to India and submit before the law. Khan had last month fled the country after several complaints were registered against him in connection with the scam. Later, he released a video expressing his desire to come back to the country and participate in the investigation. An 11-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by DIG B R Ravikanthe Gowda is probing the alleged fraud by the firm. Both the ED and SIT had issued lookout notice against Khan. The IMA Jewels is embroiled in a case where the firm had allegedly cheated a large number of investors after promising them impressive returns on their deposits. Khan is facing investigation for allegedly duping 40,000 investors especially Muslims in the state. He had claimed that he gave Rs 400 crore to Congress leader Roshan Baig which he was not returning.

IMA ponzi scam: Enforcement Directorate to produce Mansoor Khan in court to extend judicial custody

Once a small cluster of houses stood along a gentle stream in Pakistani Kashmir. Now only jagged rocks and a few damaged homes remain after torrential rains wreaked havoc on the picturesque mountain village in the Laswa Valley.

More than 270 people have been killed in recent days across South Asia as monsoon rains deluged large swathes of the subcontinent, flooding waterways and destroying communities.

On Sunday evening, the normally quiet stream running through the valley morphed into a raging current - uprooting everything in its path.

Twenty-three people are missing, presumed dead by officials.

Seven others were injured, while 150 houses and businesses were destroyed and about 50 buildings damaged in the seven hamlets spread across Laswa.

"I was holding the hand of my mother trying to save her, but unfortunately I lost her hand and she was swept away by the floodwater," says Amin Butt, who was visiting his family in Kashmir.

"Within a minute my entire world was gone, my mother was gone and my home,"&nbsp;Butt said, his eyes misting over.

"We have nothing left here now except for the stones."

Hard rain

Kashmir has been divided since the end of British colonial rule in 1947 and both New Delhi and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/appreciate-icjs-decision-not-to-acquit-kulbhushan-jadhav-says-imran-khan-after-icjs-verdict-236784&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjw1Kay-8DjAhXR6XMBHSDpBGgQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1KWL1Cf_dIU8SYlh8upZH4">Islamabad</a> claim the former Himalayan kingdom in full.

Located just a few kilometres (miles) north of the Line of Control - the heavily militarised de-facto border dividing the disputed Himalayan territory - Laswa has been frequently shelled during bouts of fighting between Pakistan and India.

But in recent years it had been largely spared despite increasing tensions.

On Sunday, the tragedy brought by the floods reminded residents of the horrors of war from the past.

Shahnawaz Butt lost his wife and three of his six children in the disaster.&nbsp;

"I was unable to see their faces again because their bodies were not found," he sighs.

"I would like to appeal to whoever hears my voice, to provide us with the basic necessities of life like electricity and water," he pleads.&nbsp;

Several residents interviewed by AFP&nbsp;criticised the slow response by officials, saying supplies arrived slowly by the single road that enters the valley rather than being flown in.

White tents provided by the Pakistani army now stand in place of the homes that resided there just days ago, where survivors receive condolences from their neighbours.&nbsp;

Raging from June to September, the monsoon is essential for irrigating crops and replenishing&nbsp;vital water sources across the subcontinent that approximately one-fifth of the global population depends on.&nbsp;

But the yearly rains often turn deadly, as floods wash away communities and destroy farmland.&nbsp;

Once a small cluster of houses stood along a gentle stream in Pakistani Kashmir. Now only jagged rocks and a few damaged homes remain after torrential rains wreaked havoc on the picturesque mountain village in the Laswa Valley.

Once a small cluster of houses stood along a gentle stream in Pakistani Kashmir. Now only jagged rocks and a few damaged homes remain after torrential rains wreaked havoc on the picturesque mountain village in the Laswa Valley. More than 270 people have been killed in recent days across South Asia as monsoon rains deluged large swathes of the subcontinent, flooding waterways and destroying communities. On Sunday evening, the normally quiet stream running through the valley morphed into a raging current - uprooting everything in its path. Twenty-three people are missing, presumed dead by officials. Seven others were injured, while 150 houses and businesses were destroyed and about 50 buildings damaged in the seven hamlets spread across Laswa. "I was holding the hand of my mother trying to save her, but unfortunately I lost her hand and she was swept away by the floodwater," says Amin Butt, who was visiting his family in Kashmir. "Within a minute my entire world was gone, my mother was gone and my home," Butt said, his eyes misting over. "We have nothing left here now except for the stones." Hard rain Kashmir has been divided since the end of British colonial rule in 1947 and both New Delhi and Islamabad claim the former Himalayan kingdom in full. Located just a few kilometres (miles) north of the Line of Control - the heavily militarised de-facto border dividing the disputed Himalayan territory - Laswa has been frequently shelled during bouts of fighting between Pakistan and India. But in recent years it had been largely spared despite increasing tensions. On Sunday, the tragedy brought by the floods reminded residents of the horrors of war from the past. Shahnawaz Butt lost his wife and three of his six children in the disaster. "I was unable to see their faces again because their bodies were not found," he sighs. "I would like to appeal to whoever hears my voice, to provide us with the basic necessities of life like electricity and water," he pleads. Several residents interviewed by AFP criticised the slow response by officials, saying supplies arrived slowly by the single road that enters the valley rather than being flown in. White tents provided by the Pakistani army now stand in place of the homes that resided there just days ago, where survivors receive condolences from their neighbours. Raging from June to September, the monsoon is essential for irrigating crops and replenishing vital water sources across the subcontinent that approximately one-fifth of the global population depends on. But the yearly rains often turn deadly, as floods wash away communities and destroy farmland.

'My entire world was gone': Floods devastate northern Pakistan

A Special Court in Delhi on Tuesday granted bail to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-summons-arvind-kejriwal-manish-sisodia-in-defamation-suit-filed-by-bjps-vijender-gupta-234089">Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal</a> and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with a defamation suit filed by Delhi BJP leader Vijender Gupta.

According to the court, the two Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders will furnish a bond of Rs 10,000 each.

The next date of hearing in the defamation case has been scheduled for July 25.

Gupta had filed the suit against Kejriwal and Sisodia for allegedly "maligning" his image after they accused him of being part of an alleged "conspiracy" to kill the AAP chief by his own Personal Security Officer (PSO) in the manner in which Indira Gandhi was killed.

He had said that he was "deeply hurt by the defamatory and false allegations made by both the accused persons".

The BJP MLA claimed that the false allegations were made to impact the Lok Sabha elections in Punjab which were held in the last phase.

The defamation suit has been filed under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for "willfully, deliberately, intentionally and maliciously" defaming the complainant, "on wholly and completely false, frivolous, unjustifiable and scandalous grounds and thereby, harming the goodwill and reputation of the complainant, within the political fraternity, media, friends, family, colleagues and in society at large."

Gupta has also alleged that in the recent past, in order to make political gains, Kejriwal allegedly scripted the slap-gate during a road-show in the capital city on May 5.&nbsp;

AAP had blamed the BJP for the incident.

He has also alleged that Kejriwal and Sisodia have made several tweets with baseless allegations against him.

"While Kejriwal`s tweet was retweeted 3,194 times and that of Sisodia`s was re-tweeted 1,301 times. Not only that.&nbsp;

Twitter being a public platform, it might have reached and read by so many other people in and outside Delhi," Gupta said.

A Special Court in Delhi on Tuesday granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with a defamation suit filed by Delhi BJP leader Vijender Gupta.

A Special Court in Delhi on Tuesday granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with a defamation suit filed by Delhi BJP leader Vijender Gupta. According to the court, the two Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders will furnish a bond of Rs 10,000 each. The next date of hearing in the defamation case has been scheduled for July 25. Gupta had filed the suit against Kejriwal and Sisodia for allegedly "maligning" his image after they accused him of being part of an alleged "conspiracy" to kill the AAP chief by his own Personal Security Officer (PSO) in the manner in which Indira Gandhi was killed. He had said that he was "deeply hurt by the defamatory and false allegations made by both the accused persons". The BJP MLA claimed that the false allegations were made to impact the Lok Sabha elections in Punjab which were held in the last phase. The defamation suit has been filed under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for "willfully, deliberately, intentionally and maliciously" defaming the complainant, "on wholly and completely false, frivolous, unjustifiable and scandalous grounds and thereby, harming the goodwill and reputation of the complainant, within the political fraternity, media, friends, family, colleagues and in society at large." Gupta has also alleged that in the recent past, in order to make political gains, Kejriwal allegedly scripted the slap-gate during a road-show in the capital city on May 5. AAP had blamed the BJP for the incident. He has also alleged that Kejriwal and Sisodia have made several tweets with baseless allegations against him. "While Kejriwal`s tweet was retweeted 3,194 times and that of Sisodia`s was re-tweeted 1,301 times. Not only that. Twitter being a public platform, it might have reached and read by so many other people in and outside Delhi," Gupta said.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia get bail in defamation suit filed by BJP's Vijender Gupta

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