The New York Times, a leading American daily, raked controversy on Monday after it referred to Pulwama terror attack as an "explosion". Twitterati didn't spare a second to troll the US media giant with some even asking if the 9/11 terror attack was an airplane crash if Pulwama bombing was an "explosion".&nbsp;

The "explosion" bit wasn't the only folly exhibited in the NYT tweet. Its post on a story on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls had the Prime Minister's name spelt wrongly as "Narandra Modi".&nbsp;

"After an explosion in Kashmir and weeks of brinkmanship with Pakistan, many Indians are rallying behind Prime Minister Narandra Modi as elections approach," the NYT tweet read.&nbsp;

The incident triggered a wave of reactions from Twitter users, essentially Indians, who were angered by the unexpected error.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NYTimes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NYTimes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a> 
 
Nyt... pls Correct your journalism and spelling errors. It did not expect you about Pulwama attack. Terrorist Attack Anywhere in the world, It is Terrorism. 
And our Prime Minister's name is Narendra Modi...Not Narandra.
— jeetesh (@jeeteshc) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeeteshc/status/1105380626499174400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Nyt... pls Correct your journalism and spelling errors. It did not expect you about Pulwama attack. Terrorist Attack Anywhere in the world, It is Terrorism. And our Prime Minister's name is Narendra Modi... Not Narandra," one Twitter user posted on the microblogging site.&nbsp;

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New York Times dictionary, 2019: 
Terrorist attack -&gt; Miltant attack 
Suicide Car Bombing -&gt; Explosion 
What's *your* agenda, NYT? <a href="https://t.co/K2bi76wPAx">pic.twitter.com/K2bi76wPAx</a>
— ░A░n░u░r░a░g░ (@jan14anurag) <a href="https://twitter.com/jan14anurag/status/1105171720430862336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It is not the first time when the Twitterati has came down heavily on the erroneous. Just a few days back, US President Donald Trump was trolled for calling Apple CEO Tim Cook as "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-trump-goof-up-tim-cook-renames-his-twitter-handle-as-tim-apple-201972">Tim Apple</a>".&nbsp;

Cook even went ahead and changed his Twitter handle to Tim Apple.&nbsp;

The New York Times, a leading American daily, raked controversy on Monday after it referred to Pulwama terror attack as an "explosion". Twitterati didn't spare a second to troll the US media giant with some even asking if the 9/11 terror attack was an airplane crash if Pulwama bombing was an "explosion".

The New York Times, a leading American daily, raked controversy on Monday after it referred to Pulwama terror attack as an "explosion". Twitterati didn't spare a second to troll the US media giant with some even asking if the 9/11 terror attack was an airplane crash if Pulwama bombing was an "explosion". The "explosion" bit wasn't the only folly exhibited in the NYT tweet. Its post on a story on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls had the Prime Minister's name spelt wrongly as "Narandra Modi". "After an explosion in Kashmir and weeks of brinkmanship with Pakistan, many Indians are rallying behind Prime Minister Narandra Modi as elections approach," the NYT tweet read. The incident triggered a wave of reactions from Twitter users, essentially Indians, who were angered by the unexpected error. #NYTimes #PulwamaAttack Nyt... pls Correct your journalism and spelling errors. It did not expect you about Pulwama attack. Terrorist Attack Anywhere in the world, It is Terrorism. And our Prime Minister's name is Narendra Modi...Not Narandra. — jeetesh (@jeeteshc) March 12, 2019 × "Nyt... pls Correct your journalism and spelling errors. It did not expect you about Pulwama attack. Terrorist Attack Anywhere in the world, It is Terrorism. And our Prime Minister's name is Narendra Modi... Not Narandra," one Twitter user posted on the microblogging site. New York Times dictionary, 2019: Terrorist attack -> Miltant attack Suicide Car Bombing -> Explosion What's *your* agenda, NYT? pic.twitter.com/K2bi76wPAx — ░A░n░u░r░a░g░ (@jan14anurag) March 11, 2019 × It is not the first time when the Twitterati has came down heavily on the erroneous. Just a few days back, US President Donald Trump was trolled for calling Apple CEO Tim Cook as "Tim Apple". Cook even went ahead and changed his Twitter handle to Tim Apple.

New York Times faces backlash for calling Pulwama terror attack an 'explosion', misspelling PM Modi's name

Activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) have condemned the Pulwama terror attack and asked Islamabad to dismantle all terror camps operating in PoK and parts of Pakistan.

At an event held on the sidelines of the 40th Session of United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva on Monday, while focusing on the threat of extremism and terrorism, the activists said that not only the region but the entire world is suffering from its menace.

Sardar Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, Chairman of United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) accused the Pakistani army of using terrorists for its proxy war against India.

He said, “Pakistan’s Army officials are now openly asking Kashmiris to stop using light weapons and go for suicide attacks. It is being openly preached by retired Army Generals. It is an alarming situation. We, people, love peaceful co-existence as our state is multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic. If Pakistan is continuously promoting extremism and terrorism, our state will be divided into thousand pieces on the basis of sects because we have Christians, Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims”.

Asserting that Pakistan is using religion, Kashmiri added, “Extremism is not in favour of any person. But, unfortunately, Pakistan loses its wisdom and always using terrorism as a weapon. They are using religion; they are using terrorism that’s why entire Pakistan is suffering. Pakistan’s civil society’s voice is suppressed by the terrorists and mullahs. Why? If any peaceful organisation is holding a protest against terrorism, against human rights violations these mullahs carry out attacks on these peaceful demonstrators. So, we are in a very critical situation, that’s why we are asking UN Human Rights Council and the world community to intervene and ask Pakistan to change its mind and send a fact-finding mission so that all the terrorist infrastructure which is very much intact in PoK should be dismantled”.

Misfar Hassan, another panellist and human rights activist from PoK said, “We have witnessed in history for the past 71 years that there have been attacks and counterattacks. With respect to the recent attack, the Pulwama attack, both the countries came closer to the brink of war and the whole world was shivering that both powers are nuclear and if anything goes wrong it could be proving catastrophic for the world”.

He added, “This is the time to review the situation, to dismantle all these terror operating groups wherever they are, be it in Pakistan occupied Kashmir or they are operating in Pakistan. Pakistan government needs to take some responsibility and get rid of these non-state actors because they are not only destroying the local but international peace.”&nbsp;

Activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) have condemned the Pulwama terror attack and asked Islamabad to dismantle all terror camps operating in PoK and parts of Pakistan.

Activists from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) have condemned the Pulwama terror attack and asked Islamabad to dismantle all terror camps operating in PoK and parts of Pakistan. At an event held on the sidelines of the 40th Session of United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva on Monday, while focusing on the threat of extremism and terrorism, the activists said that not only the region but the entire world is suffering from its menace. Sardar Shaukat Ali Kashmiri, Chairman of United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) accused the Pakistani army of using terrorists for its proxy war against India. He said, “Pakistan’s Army officials are now openly asking Kashmiris to stop using light weapons and go for suicide attacks. It is being openly preached by retired Army Generals. It is an alarming situation. We, people, love peaceful co-existence as our state is multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-ethnic. If Pakistan is continuously promoting extremism and terrorism, our state will be divided into thousand pieces on the basis of sects because we have Christians, Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims”. Asserting that Pakistan is using religion, Kashmiri added, “Extremism is not in favour of any person. But, unfortunately, Pakistan loses its wisdom and always using terrorism as a weapon. They are using religion; they are using terrorism that’s why entire Pakistan is suffering. Pakistan’s civil society’s voice is suppressed by the terrorists and mullahs. Why? If any peaceful organisation is holding a protest against terrorism, against human rights violations these mullahs carry out attacks on these peaceful demonstrators. So, we are in a very critical situation, that’s why we are asking UN Human Rights Council and the world community to intervene and ask Pakistan to change its mind and send a fact-finding mission so that all the terrorist infrastructure which is very much intact in PoK should be dismantled”. Misfar Hassan, another panellist and human rights activist from PoK said, “We have witnessed in history for the past 71 years that there have been attacks and counterattacks. With respect to the recent attack, the Pulwama attack, both the countries came closer to the brink of war and the whole world was shivering that both powers are nuclear and if anything goes wrong it could be proving catastrophic for the world”. He added, “This is the time to review the situation, to dismantle all these terror operating groups wherever they are, be it in Pakistan occupied Kashmir or they are operating in Pakistan. Pakistan government needs to take some responsibility and get rid of these non-state actors because they are not only destroying the local but international peace.”

PoK activists condemn Pulwama terror attack at UNHRC, asks Pakistan to dismantle terror camps

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday slammed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/is-it-going-to-be-rahul-gandhi-vs-narendra-modi-in-2019-185056">Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a> for referring to terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed chief as Masood Azhar "ji" during his public address.&nbsp;

Gandhi, in his address, said that "You would remember that during their (NDA) last government, current National Security Advisor Ajit Doval went to Kandahar to hand over Masood Azhar ji."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Rahul Gandhi in Delhi: You would remember that during their(NDA) last Govt, current National Security Advisor Ajit Doval went to Kandahar to hand over Masood Azhar. <a href="https://t.co/xTErFR6rjV">pic.twitter.com/xTErFR6rjV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105082740712660992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The BJP did not bat an eye in attacking Gandhi with scores of party leaders joining in, including Union ministers, who took to Twitter and trolled the Congress chief.&nbsp;

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Come on “Rahul Gandhi Ji”! 
 
Earlier it were the likes of Digvijay Ji who called “Osama Ji” and “Hafiz Saeed Sahab”. 
 
Now you are saying “Masood Azhar Ji”. 
 
What is happening to Congress Party? <a href="https://t.co/fIB4FoOFOh">pic.twitter.com/fIB4FoOFOh</a>
— Ravi Shankar Prasad (@rsprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/rsprasad/status/1105102694891601920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Come on “Rahul Gandhi Ji”! Earlier it were the likes of Digvijay Ji who called “Osama Ji” and “Hafiz Saeed Sahab”. Now you are saying “Masood Azhar Ji”. What is happening to Congress Party?" Ravi Shankar Prasad tweeted.&nbsp;

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What is common between Rahul Gandhi and Pakistan? 
 
Their love for terrorists. 
 
Please note Rahul ji’s reverence for terrorist Masood Azhar - a testimony to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulLovesTerrorists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulLovesTerrorists</a> <a href="https://t.co/CyqoZ7b9CF">pic.twitter.com/CyqoZ7b9CF</a>
— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) <a href="https://twitter.com/smritiirani/status/1105097551039082497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"What is common between Rahul Gandhi and Pakistan? Their love for terrorists. Please note Rahul ji’s reverence for terrorist Masood Azhar - a testimony to," read Smriti Irani's tweet.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi for referring to terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed chief as Masood Azhar "ji" during his public address.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday slammed Congress president Rahul Gandhi for referring to terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed chief as Masood Azhar "ji" during his public address. Gandhi, in his address, said that "You would remember that during their (NDA) last government, current National Security Advisor Ajit Doval went to Kandahar to hand over Masood Azhar ji." #WATCH Rahul Gandhi in Delhi: You would remember that during their(NDA) last Govt, current National Security Advisor Ajit Doval went to Kandahar to hand over Masood Azhar. pic.twitter.com/xTErFR6rjV — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × The BJP did not bat an eye in attacking Gandhi with scores of party leaders joining in, including Union ministers, who took to Twitter and trolled the Congress chief. Come on “Rahul Gandhi Ji”! Earlier it were the likes of Digvijay Ji who called “Osama Ji” and “Hafiz Saeed Sahab”. Now you are saying “Masood Azhar Ji”. What is happening to Congress Party? pic.twitter.com/fIB4FoOFOh — Ravi Shankar Prasad (@rsprasad) March 11, 2019 × "Come on “Rahul Gandhi Ji”! Earlier it were the likes of Digvijay Ji who called “Osama Ji” and “Hafiz Saeed Sahab”. Now you are saying “Masood Azhar Ji”. What is happening to Congress Party?" Ravi Shankar Prasad tweeted. What is common between Rahul Gandhi and Pakistan? Their love for terrorists. Please note Rahul ji’s reverence for terrorist Masood Azhar - a testimony to #RahulLovesTerrorists pic.twitter.com/CyqoZ7b9CF — Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) March 11, 2019 × "What is common between Rahul Gandhi and Pakistan? Their love for terrorists. Please note Rahul ji’s reverence for terrorist Masood Azhar - a testimony to," read Smriti Irani's tweet.

'What's happening to Congress?' asks BJP after Rahul says 'Masood Azhar ji'

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terror and to dismantle terror infrastructure in the country.&nbsp;

According to a statement released by India's Ministry of External Affairs after a meeting between India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo in Washington, the two "agreed that Pakistan needs to take concerted action to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure and to deny safe haven to all terrorist groups in its territory".

The two also agreed that those "who support or abet terrorism in any form should be held accountable".&nbsp;

The announcements come against the backdrop of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack</a> for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group has claimed responsibility.&nbsp;

Gokhale conveyed his appreciation to the US government and to Secretary Pompeo "personally for the firm support that India received from the US" in the aftermath of the Pulwama terrorist attack. Secretary Pompeo in turn expressed his "understanding of India's concerns regarding cross-border terrorism."

On trade, the foreign secretary "underscored the significant reduction in trade deficit" in the last three years and conveyed "India's willingness to remain engaged with the US for a meaningful and mutually acceptable package".&nbsp;

Remember, the US announced recently that it would withdraw the Generalised System of Preferences (duty benefits which Washington gives to many countries) it accords to India. The withdrawal will come into effect in about 60 days.

Gokhale and Pompeo also discussed the Afghan peace process and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

Gokhale is in Washington from March 11 to 13 for the bilateral Foreign Office Consultation and Strategic Security Dialogue with his US counterpart. During his visit, the foreign secretary is also likely to meet with senior leaders in the US administration and US Congress.&nbsp;

US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo had visited India in September of 2018 for the first-ever 2+2 Dialogue.&nbsp;

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terror and to dismantle terror infrastructure in the country. According to a statement released by India's Ministry of External Affairs after a meeting between India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo in Washington, the two "agreed that Pakistan needs to take concerted action to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure and to deny safe haven to all terrorist groups in its territory".

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terror and to dismantle terror infrastructure in the country. According to a statement released by India's Ministry of External Affairs after a meeting between India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo in Washington, the two "agreed that Pakistan needs to take concerted action to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure and to deny safe haven to all terrorist groups in its territory". The two also agreed that those "who support or abet terrorism in any form should be held accountable". The announcements come against the backdrop of the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group has claimed responsibility. Gokhale conveyed his appreciation to the US government and to Secretary Pompeo "personally for the firm support that India received from the US" in the aftermath of the Pulwama terrorist attack. Secretary Pompeo in turn expressed his "understanding of India's concerns regarding cross-border terrorism." On trade, the foreign secretary "underscored the significant reduction in trade deficit" in the last three years and conveyed "India's willingness to remain engaged with the US for a meaningful and mutually acceptable package". Remember, the US announced recently that it would withdraw the Generalised System of Preferences (duty benefits which Washington gives to many countries) it accords to India. The withdrawal will come into effect in about 60 days. Gokhale and Pompeo also discussed the Afghan peace process and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Gokhale is in Washington from March 11 to 13 for the bilateral Foreign Office Consultation and Strategic Security Dialogue with his US counterpart. During his visit, the foreign secretary is also likely to meet with senior leaders in the US administration and US Congress. US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo had visited India in September of 2018 for the first-ever 2+2 Dialogue.

India, US ask Pakistan to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, deny safe haven to terror groups

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the&nbsp;Tral encounter earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&amp;K Police.

"In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said.&nbsp;Pakistani&nbsp;militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

"The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Pani said one of the militants killed has been identified as 'Code Khalid' and is believed to be from Pakistan.

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Indian Army Sources: In first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. 
Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC <a href="https://t.co/iqVrRhyZUE">pic.twitter.com/iqVrRhyZUE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105053122362294272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The officials added that in the&nbsp;first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated.&nbsp;

Based on a credible input about the presence of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">terrorists in Pinglish area of </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">Tral</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489"> Awantipora</a>, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area.&nbsp;

As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. Army officials state that a search operation is still underway.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-mastermind-of-pulwama-attack-killed-in-encounter-4-soldiers-dead-too-198057">One of the key conspirators of the Pulwama attack, Kamran Hilaal, was killed</a> in an encounter in the Pinglan area of Pulwama on February 18.&nbsp;

A joint team of the Army's 55RR, CRPF and SOG Pulwama launched cordon and search operation in Pinglan area.

Two terrorists — Hilal Ahmad and Kamran Hilaal — were killed in the encounter. Authorities said Kamran Hilaal, who they say is a Pakistani official, was the mastermind of the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day.

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day. The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&K Police. "In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said. Pakistani militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter. "The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said. Pani said one of the militants killed has been identified as 'Code Khalid' and is believed to be from Pakistan. Indian Army Sources: In first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC pic.twitter.com/iqVrRhyZUE — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × The officials added that in the first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated. Based on a credible input about the presence of terrorists in Pinglish area of Tral Awantipora, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area. As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. Army officials state that a search operation is still underway. One of the key conspirators of the Pulwama attack, Kamran Hilaal, was killed in an encounter in the Pinglan area of Pulwama on February 18. A joint team of the Army's 55RR, CRPF and SOG Pulwama launched cordon and search operation in Pinglan area. Two terrorists — Hilal Ahmad and Kamran Hilaal — were killed in the encounter. Authorities said Kamran Hilaal, who they say is a Pakistani official, was the mastermind of the Pulwama attack.

14 Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army

In this very column, along with the whole nation, I had wondered what India’s response would be to the Pulwama suicide terrorist blast. On the afternoon of 14 February, about 40 CRPF jawans lost their lives in the bombing. Twelve days later, on 26 February, India carried out a retaliatory assault. The Indian Air Force targeted the training camps of terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed in Balakot. Jaish, we may recall, had claimed responsibility for the ghastly suicide bombing at Pulwama.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, the exact damage and the resultant casualty figures from India’s counter-attack are not entirely clear. There are conflicting reports in international and national media on the quantum of destruction inflicted by the satellite-guided SPICE 2000 bombs that our Mirage 2000s released. Thankfully, our brave IAF officer, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, returned home safely, despite being taken captive and withstanding hazardous interrogation by the Pakistan Army.

One thing that stands out loud and clear is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolve, when struck, to hit back hard at targets deep inside our hostile neighbour’s territory. Yet, among the several unanswered issues that remain perhaps the most troubling is the possible intelligence failure. Not only were we proved vulnerable to the terrorist attack, but were unable to prevent it once some prior warnings about it, as claimed, were received. How could our 78-vehicle convey, carrying 2500 troops, travelling on a four-lane highway with multiple check-points be so brazenly knocked out by a single suicide bomber and his explosive-laden SUV? How was such a large cache of ammo loaded onto to a vehicle without detection? We are not privy to the outcome of the post-mortem investigations. All we can do is hope that our Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has plugged the loopholes to prevent such an atrocity from recurring.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One welcome step is the banning of organisations like the Jamaat-e-Islami in Jammu and Kashmir. Abul Ala Maududi, one of the foremost theologians and philosophers of political Islam in recent times, founded the Jamaat in 1941. He was the real progenitor of the ideology of Islamist theocracy that created and shaped Pakistan. Maududi offered a modernist justification for Islamic revival and state formation. Despite splits in the organisation following the Partition in 1947, Jamaat-e-Islamis are active all over the sub-continent and beyond. What all these groups have in common are Islamist political ambitions underwritten by theological and religious justifications.&nbsp;

The J&amp;K chapter of the Jamaat-e-Islami began in 1945 with pro-Pakistan leanings. Later, it stopped fighting elections, instead projecting itself as a “socio-religious” organisation. It controls and manages hundreds of madrasas (religious schools) and other so-called charitable and welfare organisations in J&amp;K. The Jamaat was a founder member of the Hurriyat Conference. Even today, after distancing itself from the Hurriyat, it maintains what many believe is its core Islamic and separatist ideology. The extent of its responsibility in brainwashing the Kashmiri youth must be immense. Though the organisation is banned today, its schools are still open and active. The Government, wary of its links with separatists and militants, has moved, several decades too late, at last to curtain its activities. No surprise that both the National Conference and the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have protested against these measures. Mehbooba Mufti, PDP chief, even led a protest rally on 6th March against the ban. That should leave no doubt in anyone’s mind where her sympathies or interests lie.

But the real question in the aftermath of these dramatic events is if there is a new normal in the Indo-Pakistan stand-off. Surely the retaliatory strike is not enough. What we need is a totally new approach to the problem. It is holding the Pakistani state accountable for what its “non-state” actors do. Our only other option is to use low-cost non-state actors ourselves, but in the long run such stratagems will hurt us too, as they have Pakistan. These ugly and violent monsters easily turn against their own makers and keepers. Instead, if India targets the Pakistani state each time we are hit by a Pakistan-sponsored terrorist group, the spotlight will once again turn to Pakistan as a rogue state, with the military and ISI as the controllers of its cross-border interference and aggression.

Pakistan, whether militarily or economically, is no match for India. Nor can it counterbalance these disadvantages diplomatically. The result of every skirmish, even if inconclusive, is that Pakistan will be weakened and exposed. Holding the Pakistani state responsible for terrorist activities against India and improving our intelligence operations within Pakistan is the way forward.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-should-india-hold-pakistan-responsible-for-its-non-state-actors-2727739">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

In this very column, along with the whole nation, I had wondered what India’s response would be to the Pulwama suicide terrorist blast. On the afternoon of 14 February, about 40 CRPF jawans lost their lives in the bombing.

In this very column, along with the whole nation, I had wondered what India’s response would be to the Pulwama suicide terrorist blast. On the afternoon of 14 February, about 40 CRPF jawans lost their lives in the bombing. Twelve days later, on 26 February, India carried out a retaliatory assault. The Indian Air Force targeted the training camps of terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed in Balakot. Jaish, we may recall, had claimed responsibility for the ghastly suicide bombing at Pulwama. However, the exact damage and the resultant casualty figures from India’s counter-attack are not entirely clear. There are conflicting reports in international and national media on the quantum of destruction inflicted by the satellite-guided SPICE 2000 bombs that our Mirage 2000s released. Thankfully, our brave IAF officer, Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, returned home safely, despite being taken captive and withstanding hazardous interrogation by the Pakistan Army. One thing that stands out loud and clear is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolve, when struck, to hit back hard at targets deep inside our hostile neighbour’s territory. Yet, among the several unanswered issues that remain perhaps the most troubling is the possible intelligence failure. Not only were we proved vulnerable to the terrorist attack, but were unable to prevent it once some prior warnings about it, as claimed, were received. How could our 78-vehicle convey, carrying 2500 troops, travelling on a four-lane highway with multiple check-points be so brazenly knocked out by a single suicide bomber and his explosive-laden SUV? How was such a large cache of ammo loaded onto to a vehicle without detection? We are not privy to the outcome of the post-mortem investigations. All we can do is hope that our Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has plugged the loopholes to prevent such an atrocity from recurring. One welcome step is the banning of organisations like the Jamaat-e-Islami in Jammu and Kashmir. Abul Ala Maududi, one of the foremost theologians and philosophers of political Islam in recent times, founded the Jamaat in 1941. He was the real progenitor of the ideology of Islamist theocracy that created and shaped Pakistan. Maududi offered a modernist justification for Islamic revival and state formation. Despite splits in the organisation following the Partition in 1947, Jamaat-e-Islamis are active all over the sub-continent and beyond. What all these groups have in common are Islamist political ambitions underwritten by theological and religious justifications. The J&K chapter of the Jamaat-e-Islami began in 1945 with pro-Pakistan leanings. Later, it stopped fighting elections, instead projecting itself as a “socio-religious” organisation. It controls and manages hundreds of madrasas (religious schools) and other so-called charitable and welfare organisations in J&K. The Jamaat was a founder member of the Hurriyat Conference. Even today, after distancing itself from the Hurriyat, it maintains what many believe is its core Islamic and separatist ideology. The extent of its responsibility in brainwashing the Kashmiri youth must be immense. Though the organisation is banned today, its schools are still open and active. The Government, wary of its links with separatists and militants, has moved, several decades too late, at last to curtain its activities. No surprise that both the National Conference and the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have protested against these measures. Mehbooba Mufti, PDP chief, even led a protest rally on 6th March against the ban. That should leave no doubt in anyone’s mind where her sympathies or interests lie. But the real question in the aftermath of these dramatic events is if there is a new normal in the Indo-Pakistan stand-off. Surely the retaliatory strike is not enough. What we need is a totally new approach to the problem. It is holding the Pakistani state accountable for what its “non-state” actors do. Our only other option is to use low-cost non-state actors ourselves, but in the long run such stratagems will hurt us too, as they have Pakistan. These ugly and violent monsters easily turn against their own makers and keepers. Instead, if India targets the Pakistani state each time we are hit by a Pakistan-sponsored terrorist group, the spotlight will once again turn to Pakistan as a rogue state, with the military and ISI as the controllers of its cross-border interference and aggression. Pakistan, whether militarily or economically, is no match for India. Nor can it counterbalance these disadvantages diplomatically. The result of every skirmish, even if inconclusive, is that Pakistan will be weakened and exposed. Holding the Pakistani state responsible for terrorist activities against India and improving our intelligence operations within Pakistan is the way forward. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Should India hold Pakistan responsible for its non-state actors?

India has said that Pakistan's use of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-says-wont-allow-terror-groups-to-use-our-territory-bans-hafiz-saeed-from-leading-friday-prayers-202085">terrorism as an instrument of state policy</a> is a "central problem" and the international community must unequivocally condemn terrorism and its perpetrators.&nbsp;

Addressing the 40th Session of the Human Rights Council on Thursday, Permanent Representative of India to the UN in Geneva Ambassador Rajiv Chander said, "Terrorism is the most fundamental violation of human rights and we overlook it at our own peril."&nbsp;

He told the Council that the "central problem is cross-border terrorism and Pakistan's use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy. This fact needs due recognition."&nbsp;

Chander called for a UN-led consensus on zero tolerance on terrorism, saying the international community needs to unequivocally condemn terrorism and those who perpetrate it.

"We firmly believe that UN-led consensus on zero tolerance on terrorism is as much an international obligation as it is a commitment to our own people. We all need to unequivocally condemn terrorism and its perpetrators,? he said at the Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

On the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, the envoy said India's views on the state have been made clear in the Council.&nbsp;

"The whole state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Pakistan remains in illegal occupation of a part of our territory," Chander said.

Earlier, Pakistan's Acting Permanent Representative Tahir Hussain Andrabi had made references to Kashmir in his statement to the Council.

Chander said India's efforts towards protection and promotion of human rights are second to none.&nbsp;

"This is reflected in the Constitution of India that guarantees its citizens fundamental political and civil rights and provides for the progressive realisation and enforcement of economic, social and cultural rights," he said.

The diplomat underscored that India is a secular state and safeguarding the rights of minorities forms an essential core of its polity.&nbsp;

"The Indian Constitution enshrines various provisions for the protection of rights and interests of the minorities. The State makes no distinction between caste, creed, colour or religion of a citizen," he said.

Chander underlined that along with being the world's largest democracy, Indian polity also weaves in immense diversity along with respect for tolerance and mutual understanding.&nbsp;

"An independent judiciary, free and vibrant media, and, a vocal civil society are all active in this regard within the legal framework of the State. National and State level Human Rights Commissions along with other specific Commissions continue to monitor complaints from minority communities regarding issues of discrimination and disadvantage faced by them," he said.

The government has issued Communal Harmony Guidelines which lay down Standard Operating Procedures to deal with communal violence, the envoy added.&nbsp;

India has said that Pakistan's use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy is a "central problem" and the international community must unequivocally condemn terrorism and its perpetrators.

India has said that Pakistan's use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy is a "central problem" and the international community must unequivocally condemn terrorism and its perpetrators. Addressing the 40th Session of the Human Rights Council on Thursday, Permanent Representative of India to the UN in Geneva Ambassador Rajiv Chander said, "Terrorism is the most fundamental violation of human rights and we overlook it at our own peril." He told the Council that the "central problem is cross-border terrorism and Pakistan's use of terrorism as an instrument of state policy. This fact needs due recognition." Chander called for a UN-led consensus on zero tolerance on terrorism, saying the international community needs to unequivocally condemn terrorism and those who perpetrate it. "We firmly believe that UN-led consensus on zero tolerance on terrorism is as much an international obligation as it is a commitment to our own people. We all need to unequivocally condemn terrorism and its perpetrators,? he said at the Interactive Dialogue with the High Commissioner for Human Rights. On the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, the envoy said India's views on the state have been made clear in the Council. "The whole state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Pakistan remains in illegal occupation of a part of our territory," Chander said. Earlier, Pakistan's Acting Permanent Representative Tahir Hussain Andrabi had made references to Kashmir in his statement to the Council. Chander said India's efforts towards protection and promotion of human rights are second to none. "This is reflected in the Constitution of India that guarantees its citizens fundamental political and civil rights and provides for the progressive realisation and enforcement of economic, social and cultural rights," he said. The diplomat underscored that India is a secular state and safeguarding the rights of minorities forms an essential core of its polity. "The Indian Constitution enshrines various provisions for the protection of rights and interests of the minorities. The State makes no distinction between caste, creed, colour or religion of a citizen," he said. Chander underlined that along with being the world's largest democracy, Indian polity also weaves in immense diversity along with respect for tolerance and mutual understanding. "An independent judiciary, free and vibrant media, and, a vocal civil society are all active in this regard within the legal framework of the State. National and State level Human Rights Commissions along with other specific Commissions continue to monitor complaints from minority communities regarding issues of discrimination and disadvantage faced by them," he said. The government has issued Communal Harmony Guidelines which lay down Standard Operating Procedures to deal with communal violence, the envoy added.

Pak's use of terrorism as instrument of state policy 'central problem': India at UNHRC

In what seems to be a curious case of irony, Pakistan took a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-un-wwf-team-to-visit-balakot-to-take-witness-account-on-loss-of-trees-by-iaf-strike-201682">team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund to Balakot</a> to assess the damage done to trees in the aftermath of India's strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps, however, it did not allow the UN ombudsman to meet 26/11 mastermind, Hafiz Saeed. The move, yet again, exposes Pakistan's dual policy on terror.

Officials from Pakistan's Ministry of Climate Change told WION that a team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund visited Balakot to take an account on the loss of trees in the strikes on Thursday. A follow up visit happened on Friday.

These were UN diplomats from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) who are stationed in Islamabad. Pakistan has claimed that 19 trees were damaged in the strikes by India and were part of a project called "Billion Tree Tsunami" launched by its government.

Pak Prime Minister's advisor and federal minister on climate change Malik Amin Aslam said, "UN's environment assembly is in Nairobi next week, we will raise the issue... expose India".

When asked about Pakistan involving the UN on the trees damaged by Balakot strikes, India's environment minister Harsh Vardhan said, "it is not worth commenting".

The development comes even as Islamabad denied a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-blocks-un-team-from-interviewing-jud-chief-hafiz-saeed-201836">visa to UN ombudsman to "interview" Hafiz Saeed</a> who had applied for his delisting from the UN terror list.&nbsp;

For a delisting, the applicant has to be personally interviewed by UN ombudsman for which they wanted to travel to Pakistan. The UN official had to settle for a video interview of Hafiz Saeed who was informed about the UN decision not to delist him on March 6.

There has not been any reaction from Pakistan's foreign office as to why they did not give UN ombudsman visa to travel to the country.

It is believed that Islamabad feared that any UN official's meet with Hafiz Saeed could have led to more issues for the country which is under global pressure to act on terrorist groups it has been supporting.

In what seems to be a curious case of irony, Pakistan took a team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund to Balakot to assess the damage done to trees in the aftermath of India's strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps, however, it did not allow the UN ombudsman to meet 26/11 mastermind, Hafiz Saeed.

In what seems to be a curious case of irony, Pakistan took a team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund to Balakot to assess the damage done to trees in the aftermath of India's strikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps, however, it did not allow the UN ombudsman to meet 26/11 mastermind, Hafiz Saeed. The move, yet again, exposes Pakistan's dual policy on terror. Officials from Pakistan's Ministry of Climate Change told WION that a team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund visited Balakot to take an account on the loss of trees in the strikes on Thursday. A follow up visit happened on Friday. These were UN diplomats from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) who are stationed in Islamabad. Pakistan has claimed that 19 trees were damaged in the strikes by India and were part of a project called "Billion Tree Tsunami" launched by its government. Pak Prime Minister's advisor and federal minister on climate change Malik Amin Aslam said, "UN's environment assembly is in Nairobi next week, we will raise the issue... expose India". When asked about Pakistan involving the UN on the trees damaged by Balakot strikes, India's environment minister Harsh Vardhan said, "it is not worth commenting". The development comes even as Islamabad denied a visa to UN ombudsman to "interview" Hafiz Saeed who had applied for his delisting from the UN terror list. For a delisting, the applicant has to be personally interviewed by UN ombudsman for which they wanted to travel to Pakistan. The UN official had to settle for a video interview of Hafiz Saeed who was informed about the UN decision not to delist him on March 6. There has not been any reaction from Pakistan's foreign office as to why they did not give UN ombudsman visa to travel to the country. It is believed that Islamabad feared that any UN official's meet with Hafiz Saeed could have led to more issues for the country which is under global pressure to act on terrorist groups it has been supporting.

Pak lets UN team assess loss of trees in Balakot; bars meeting with Hafiz Saeed

The&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Speaking with the media in Delhi today, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asked if Gandhi presented India's stand to the envoys or the opposition's.

"Rahul Gandhi yesterday met ambassadors of G20 countries, what did he disclose to them about Pulwama attack and the AirStrikes? Did he convey to them the view of the country, Govt or Congress' view? Every day they're questioning air strikes, he needs to explain it to the country," Prasad told reporters.&nbsp;

Ahead of Lok Sabha elections, top Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh shared the party's economic and political vision with ambassadors of G20 member-countries at a meeting on Wednesday, during which the Pulwama attack and the subsequent developments were also discussed, news agency PTI reported.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
RS Prasad: Rahul Gandhi y'day met ambassadors of G20 countries, what did he disclose to them about Pulwama attack &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirStrikes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirStrikes</a>? Did he convey to them the view of the country, Govt or Congress' view. everyday they're questioning air strikes, he needs to explain it to the country. <a href="https://t.co/n7uPpjMXfd">pic.twitter.com/n7uPpjMXfd</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103614873517285376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Pakistan High Commissioner was not invited to the meet which was attended by the ambassadors of the United States and China, the UK High Commissioner among others.

Sources said the Pulwama attack and the consequent air strikes were also learnt to have been discussed during the meeting, as the diplomats were curious about how the developments will play out in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. They also sought to know its effect on the stability of the region, PTI reported.

The meet, held at a local hotel, was earlier slated for February 15 and had been cancelled in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. 
Rahul Gandhi later tweeted out saying he enjoyed the exchange of ideas and looked forward to continuing the dialogue with the envoys.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday. Speaking with the media in Delhi today, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asked if Gandhi presented India's stand to the envoys or the opposition's. "Rahul Gandhi yesterday met ambassadors of G20 countries, what did he disclose to them about Pulwama attack and the AirStrikes? Did he convey to them the view of the country, Govt or Congress' view? Every day they're questioning air strikes, he needs to explain it to the country," Prasad told reporters. Ahead of Lok Sabha elections, top Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh shared the party's economic and political vision with ambassadors of G20 member-countries at a meeting on Wednesday, during which the Pulwama attack and the subsequent developments were also discussed, news agency PTI reported. RS Prasad: Rahul Gandhi y'day met ambassadors of G20 countries, what did he disclose to them about Pulwama attack & #AirStrikes? Did he convey to them the view of the country, Govt or Congress' view. everyday they're questioning air strikes, he needs to explain it to the country. pic.twitter.com/n7uPpjMXfd — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × The Pakistan High Commissioner was not invited to the meet which was attended by the ambassadors of the United States and China, the UK High Commissioner among others. Sources said the Pulwama attack and the consequent air strikes were also learnt to have been discussed during the meeting, as the diplomats were curious about how the developments will play out in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. They also sought to know its effect on the stability of the region, PTI reported. The meet, held at a local hotel, was earlier slated for February 15 and had been cancelled in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Rahul Gandhi later tweeted out saying he enjoyed the exchange of ideas and looked forward to continuing the dialogue with the envoys. (With inputs from PTI)

'What did he disclose on Pulwama, Balakot strikes?' BJP asks Rahul to clarify on meeting with G20 envoys

The Indian Air Force on Thursday released a statement maintaining the force's "high state of preparedness" to tackle any threat posed to nation's security.&nbsp;

In the statement, the IAF noted that it is ready to "proactively engage any perceived threat in the present security scenario".&nbsp;

"A strict vigil in the skies to detect and thwart any act of aggression from Pakistan Air Force is being maintained," the statement read as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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As per NOTAM No. A0234/19 issued by CAA Pakistan, it has opened their airspace with Oman, Iran, Afghanistan and China only. The eleven entry/exit points located along Indo-Pak airspace boundary are still closed. <a href="https://t.co/FZMMPOCb3x">https://t.co/FZMMPOCb3x</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103629587047768064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"As per NOTAM No. A0234/19 issued by CAA Pakistan, it has opened their airspace with Oman, Iran, Afghanistan and China only. The eleven entry/exit points located along Indo-Pak airspace boundary are still closed," the statement added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-un-wwf-team-to-visit-balakot-to-take-witness-account-on-loss-of-trees-by-iaf-strike-201682">a team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund will visit Balakot in Pakistan today</a> to take a witness account on the loss of trees in the strikes by India earlier, officials from Pakistan's Ministry of climate change told WION.

Tensions have been high between India and Pakistan after over 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14, the responsibility of which has been claimed by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

In retaliation, the Indian Air Force carried out anti-terror strikes at a JeM terror training camp in Pakistan's Balakot last week, in which a large number of terrorists were killed, according to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

The Indian Air Force on Thursday released a statement maintaining the force's "high state of preparedness" to tackle any threat posed to nation's security. In the statement, the IAF noted that it is ready to "proactively engage any perceived threat in the present security scenario".

The Indian Air Force on Thursday released a statement maintaining the force's "high state of preparedness" to tackle any threat posed to nation's security. In the statement, the IAF noted that it is ready to "proactively engage any perceived threat in the present security scenario". "A strict vigil in the skies to detect and thwart any act of aggression from Pakistan Air Force is being maintained," the statement read as reported by news agency ANI. As per NOTAM No. A0234/19 issued by CAA Pakistan, it has opened their airspace with Oman, Iran, Afghanistan and China only. The eleven entry/exit points located along Indo-Pak airspace boundary are still closed. https://t.co/FZMMPOCb3x — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × "As per NOTAM No. A0234/19 issued by CAA Pakistan, it has opened their airspace with Oman, Iran, Afghanistan and China only. The eleven entry/exit points located along Indo-Pak airspace boundary are still closed," the statement added. Meanwhile, a team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund will visit Balakot in Pakistan today to take a witness account on the loss of trees in the strikes by India earlier, officials from Pakistan's Ministry of climate change told WION. Tensions have been high between India and Pakistan after over 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14, the responsibility of which has been claimed by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). In retaliation, the Indian Air Force carried out anti-terror strikes at a JeM terror training camp in Pakistan's Balakot last week, in which a large number of terrorists were killed, according to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

IAF says in 'high state of preparedness' to tackle any threat to national security

A blast&nbsp;occurred at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K)&nbsp;on Thursday.

MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police(IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion."

Reports said at least twenty-eight people were injured due to the blast.

This is the third grenade attack&nbsp;in the bus stand area of the city since May last year.

Police said people&nbsp;who were injured in the blast have been admitted to hospital. At least 5 people are in critical condition.

The scene of the blast along the BC Road was sealed off by police and a massive hunt has been launched to nab the grenade thrower, MK Sinha, IGP, Jammu, said.

Sinha, who immediately rushed to the scene to take stock of the situation, said a preliminary investigation suggests that someone lobbed the grenade, causing injuries to&nbsp;people who were evacuated to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital.

Windscreens of a parked state road transport corporation (SRTC) bus were damaged in the blast, a police official said, adding a condition of one of the injured was stated to be "critical".

&nbsp;

A blast occurred at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) on Thursday. MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police(IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion." Reports said at least twenty-eight people were injured due to the blast.

A blast occurred at a bus stand in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) on Thursday. MK Sinha, Inspector General of Police(IGP) Jammu said, "It was a grenade explosion." Reports said at least twenty-eight people were injured due to the blast. This is the third grenade attack in the bus stand area of the city since May last year. Police said people who were injured in the blast have been admitted to hospital. At least 5 people are in critical condition. The scene of the blast along the BC Road was sealed off by police and a massive hunt has been launched to nab the grenade thrower, MK Sinha, IGP, Jammu, said. Sinha, who immediately rushed to the scene to take stock of the situation, said a preliminary investigation suggests that someone lobbed the grenade, causing injuries to people who were evacuated to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital. Windscreens of a parked state road transport corporation (SRTC) bus were damaged in the blast, a police official said, adding a condition of one of the injured was stated to be "critical".

Grenade blast in Jammu and Kashmir bus stand; at least 28 injured

Pakistani fighter pilots flying their F-16 combat aircraft had fired four to five American <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-amraam-missile-and-why-its-an-important-evidence-against-pakistan-200344">AMRAAM</a>s (AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile) from a distance of 40-50 km at the Indian aircraft including the Su-30 and the MiG-21 Bison.

To expose Pakistan further on its claim of not using the F-16 planes while attacking India on February 27, Indian troops on the ground are carrying out an extensive search of probable areas where the debris of the AMRAAMs could have fallen, sources told ANI on Tuesday.&nbsp;

“The F-16s fired four to five AMRAAM missiles from a beyond visual range distance of around 40-50 km at Indian planes including the Sukhoi in the engagement on February 27 but they all missed the target,” sources said.

“Once we get more parts of the AMRAAM missiles which failed to hit targets and have fallen on our side, the Pakistanis would be further exposed,” they said. The February 27 dog fight between Indian Air Force pilots and Pakistanis resulted in the shooting down of an F-16 by Indian MiG-21 pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was the only pilot who fired at Pakistani aircraft from the Indian side in the engagement.

The entire operation took place over the skies of Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir after the Pakistanis made a failed attempt to target Indian military targets in Nowshera sector. The Pakistani Air Force (PAF) probably had the intention of pounding a brigade headquarters, a battalion headquarters, and an oil dump, sources said.

India has already shown parts of one AMRAAM missile fired at Indian planes during a press conference on February 28 and more evidence in this regard would create issues for Pakistan. India has also shown the evidence to the American Defence Attach in India and has informed him about Indian concerns in this regard.

Pakistani fighter pilots flying their F-16 combat aircraft had fired four to five American AMRAAMs (AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile) from a distance of 40-50 km at the Indian aircraft including the Su-30 and the MiG-21 Bison.

Pakistani fighter pilots flying their F-16 combat aircraft had fired four to five American AMRAAMs (AIM-120 advanced medium-range air-to-air missile) from a distance of 40-50 km at the Indian aircraft including the Su-30 and the MiG-21 Bison. To expose Pakistan further on its claim of not using the F-16 planes while attacking India on February 27, Indian troops on the ground are carrying out an extensive search of probable areas where the debris of the AMRAAMs could have fallen, sources told ANI on Tuesday. “The F-16s fired four to five AMRAAM missiles from a beyond visual range distance of around 40-50 km at Indian planes including the Sukhoi in the engagement on February 27 but they all missed the target,” sources said. “Once we get more parts of the AMRAAM missiles which failed to hit targets and have fallen on our side, the Pakistanis would be further exposed,” they said. The February 27 dog fight between Indian Air Force pilots and Pakistanis resulted in the shooting down of an F-16 by Indian MiG-21 pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was the only pilot who fired at Pakistani aircraft from the Indian side in the engagement. The entire operation took place over the skies of Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir after the Pakistanis made a failed attempt to target Indian military targets in Nowshera sector. The Pakistani Air Force (PAF) probably had the intention of pounding a brigade headquarters, a battalion headquarters, and an oil dump, sources said. India has already shown parts of one AMRAAM missile fired at Indian planes during a press conference on February 28 and more evidence in this regard would create issues for Pakistan. India has also shown the evidence to the American Defence Attach in India and has informed him about Indian concerns in this regard.

Pakistan F-16 pilots fired 4-5 AMRAAMs at Indian planes from 40-50 km: Sources

A day after<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-hit-the-target-at-balakot-wing-commander-abhinandan-will-fly-again-if-fit-iaf-chief-dhanoa-201031"> IAF chief's press conference</a>, Naval chief Sunil Lanba at an event said that the Indo-pacific region has witnessed multiple forms of terrorism in recent years and few countries in "this part of world have been spared by this cause".

India's Naval chief&nbsp;said Pakistan based terrorists are planning attacks via the high seas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Naval chief Sunil Lanba speaking at an event in Delhi said, "We also have reports of terrorists being trained to carry out attacks with varying modus operandi including through the medium of the sea."

Slamming Pakistan for its support to terror, Lanba said, "India faces a far more serious version of terrorism State-Sponsored Terrorism. You have all witnessed the horrific scale of the extremist attack in the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir just 3 weeks ago. This violence was perpetrated by extremists aided and abetted by a state which seeks to destabilize India."

After the 26/11 attacks in 2008 India has increased its security along the coastline.&nbsp;

"Global nature which terrorism has acquired in recent times has further enhanced the scope of this threat," the navy chief said.

The government has been implementing the Coastal Security Scheme in phases since 2005. The objective of the scheme is to strengthen the capacity and infrastructure of Police Force of the coastal States/UTs for patrolling and surveillance of coastal areas.&nbsp;

Under the scheme, 200 Coastal Police Stations are operational, and Coastal Police has been equipped with 204 boats, 30 jetties, 284 four-wheelers.

This is not the first time a warning has come of Pakistan-based terrorist planning an attack via the high seas.&nbsp;

In January, speaking in the Parliament, minister of state in the Home Ministry Hansraj Ahir had said, "available inputs indicate that the Pakistan based terrorist group continue to train their cadres for underwater strike capabilities in a bid to infiltrate them into India by sea/water ways."

Explaining further he said,&nbsp;Pakistan-based terrorist organization have exhorted its cadres for "samundari jihad" against India.&nbsp;

On February 14th, a JeM terrorist had rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus leading to the death of over 40 CRPF personnel. India later conducted air strikes inside Pakistan at Balakot on JeM hideouts which later led Pakistan Air Force to retaliate last week.

Meanwhile, Pakistan information minister Fawad Chaudhry denied Indian accusations that Pakistan was involved in the February 14th attack at Pulwama. He, however, added that his government had decried to crackdown on terrorists&nbsp;claiming that the decision to act was taken at a meeting of the National Security Committee before the suicide bombing in J&amp;K.

After the bombing and subsequent air strikes by India, the United States, Britain and France proposed last week that the UN Security Council blacklist the head of JeM, Masood Azhar.

In an interview with an US based news channel, Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said that Azhar was in Pakistan and "really unwell".

Report later indicated that Pakistan may not resist the UNSC move this time. China had earlier blocked the vote thrice in 2009, 2016 and 2017.

A day after IAF chief's press conference, Naval chief Sunil Lanba at an event said that the Indo-pacific region has witnessed multiple forms of terrorism in recent years and few countries in "this part of world have been spared by this cause".

A day after IAF chief's press conference, Naval chief Sunil Lanba at an event said that the Indo-pacific region has witnessed multiple forms of terrorism in recent years and few countries in "this part of world have been spared by this cause". India's Naval chief said Pakistan based terrorists are planning attacks via the high seas. Naval chief Sunil Lanba speaking at an event in Delhi said, "We also have reports of terrorists being trained to carry out attacks with varying modus operandi including through the medium of the sea." Slamming Pakistan for its support to terror, Lanba said, "India faces a far more serious version of terrorism State-Sponsored Terrorism. You have all witnessed the horrific scale of the extremist attack in the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir just 3 weeks ago. This violence was perpetrated by extremists aided and abetted by a state which seeks to destabilize India." After the 26/11 attacks in 2008 India has increased its security along the coastline. "Global nature which terrorism has acquired in recent times has further enhanced the scope of this threat," the navy chief said. The government has been implementing the Coastal Security Scheme in phases since 2005. The objective of the scheme is to strengthen the capacity and infrastructure of Police Force of the coastal States/UTs for patrolling and surveillance of coastal areas. Under the scheme, 200 Coastal Police Stations are operational, and Coastal Police has been equipped with 204 boats, 30 jetties, 284 four-wheelers. This is not the first time a warning has come of Pakistan-based terrorist planning an attack via the high seas. In January, speaking in the Parliament, minister of state in the Home Ministry Hansraj Ahir had said, "available inputs indicate that the Pakistan based terrorist group continue to train their cadres for underwater strike capabilities in a bid to infiltrate them into India by sea/water ways." Explaining further he said, Pakistan-based terrorist organization have exhorted its cadres for "samundari jihad" against India. On February 14th, a JeM terrorist had rammed a car laden with explosives into a bus leading to the death of over 40 CRPF personnel. India later conducted air strikes inside Pakistan at Balakot on JeM hideouts which later led Pakistan Air Force to retaliate last week. Meanwhile, Pakistan information minister Fawad Chaudhry denied Indian accusations that Pakistan was involved in the February 14th attack at Pulwama. He, however, added that his government had decried to crackdown on terrorists claiming that the decision to act was taken at a meeting of the National Security Committee before the suicide bombing in J&K. After the bombing and subsequent air strikes by India, the United States, Britain and France proposed last week that the UN Security Council blacklist the head of JeM, Masood Azhar. In an interview with an US based news channel, Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said that Azhar was in Pakistan and "really unwell". Report later indicated that Pakistan may not resist the UNSC move this time. China had earlier blocked the vote thrice in 2009, 2016 and 2017.

Terrorists being trained to carry out operations in various forms, including through medium of the sea: Naval chief Sunil Lanba

Senior <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitter-infuriated-as-congress-leader-digvijay-singh-trolls-pm-modi-19998">Congress leader Digvijaya Singh</a> on Tuesday courted controversy by terming the dastardly Pulwama terror attack an “accident", drawing a sharp retort from BJP which said his statement was making headlines in Pakistan.

Tweeting in Hindi, he said after the Pulwama “durghatna” (accident) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) strike, "sandeh” (doubt) is being expressed in some foreign media reports following which “vishwasniyata” (credibility) of the Government of India is under question.

The former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, who has made controversial statements in the past, also questioned the casualty claim in the February 26 air raid and demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi to come clear on the same.

"Prime Minister, some ministers of your government say 300 terrorists killed, BJP president says 250 are killed, Yogi Adityanath says 400 people were killed and your minister SS Ahluwalia says that no one died. And you are silent about this issue. The country wants to know who is a liar in this," <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-drops-digvijay-singh-kamal-nath-and-janardan-dwivedi-from-cwc-152453">Digvijaya Singh</a> said.

His statement comes at a time when many opposition leaders are raising questions on the Balakot strike by IAF and are asking for proof on the exact casualty inflicted on terrorists.

Talking to reporters in Delhi, he said, “What else will you call a terrorist attack.”

Hitting out at Digvijaya Singh, BJP leader and Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Congress leader’s remarks were making headline news in Pakistan.

Another BJP leader and Union Minister VK Singh asked him whether the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/was-rajiv-gandhis-assassination-also-an-accident-vk-singh-responds-to-digvijaya-singhs-pulwama-shocker-201273">terror incident or just an "accident"</a>.

Prasad said, "Has Digvijaya Singh reduced himself to such a low level that he will call the most heinous terrorist attack on 45 CRPF jawans an accident? This is his thinking."

At a press conference in New Delhi, he said that there is a “growing competition” among Congress leaders as to who is “more vocal in lowering the morale of the security forces”.

"I would appeal to Congress that for the sake of India, please don't reduce the morale, courage and prestige of our forces for your extraneous political interest. They neither have faith in the Army, nor the Air Force. And this is all for votes. We will like to know is all this tweeting a part of the conspiracy. The statement of the Congress spokesperson is making headline news in Pakistan," he said.

"However, what else will you expect from Digivjaya Singh. After the Batla House encounter, Singh went to Azamgarh and questioned the police operations. He has called Zakir Naik a symbol of humanity. He is the same person who had said Osama ji and Hafiz Saeed Saab", Prasad said.

He also came down heavily on Congress for questioning the outcome of the IAF raid in Balakot and demanding evidence on the casualty figure.

VK Singh, who is Minister of State for External Affairs, said in Ranchi, "With due respect, I would like to ask Digvijaya Singh Ji, was Rajiv Gandhi`s assassination an accident or a terror incident? Let him answer this first."

Last week, BJP president Amit Shah had claimed that over 250 terrorists were killed in the IAF air raid.

On Shah`s statement, VK Singh said that he did not give a "confirmed figure" and it was just an "estimate".

"It`s an estimate. He is not saying this is a confirmed figure. He is saying these many people might have died," the former Army Chief said.

"The figure is of the attack on Balakot (in Pakistan). The attack was only at one place, nowhere else. The target was selected carefully, away from residential areas, to avoid civilian casualty," he told reporters.

Asked about Digvijaya`s remarks, Congress leader and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath declined to comment.

Earlier, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar had also attacked Congress for its comments on Balakot strike and said that only “Congress party can do this sin of refuting the information of armed forces”.

"What has happened to Congress? They are talking exact opposite to sentiments of the nation, they are refuting the information of armed forces. This doesn`t happen in any other democratic country where distrust is shown towards armed forces itself. Only Congress can do this sin," the BJP leader said.

After the 2008 Batla house encounter, Digvijaya Singh had questioned the veracity of Delhi Police’s evidence. He had also once used a suffix indicating respect for UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed. In August 2016, he had also addressed Jammu and Kashmir as India-occupied Kashmir. However, he later clarified that it is an integral part of India.

While speaking at an event in Ahmedabad, Prime Minister Modi had on Monday asserted that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-will-be-hunted-even-if-they-hide-deep-underneath-the-earth-pm-modi-201148">terrorists will be hunted</a> even if they hide deep underneath the Earth and asked his critics not to question the valour of the armed forces even if they are not willing to trust him.

IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa on Monday said the fighter planes had hit the target given to them but he cannot give the number of casualties suffered as it is for the government to do so.

India carried out the air strike in less than two weeks after the terror attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. &nbsp;

Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Tuesday courted controversy by terming the dastardly Pulwama terror attack an “accident", drawing a sharp retort from BJP which said his statement was making headlines in Pakistan.

Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Tuesday courted controversy by terming the dastardly Pulwama terror attack an “accident", drawing a sharp retort from BJP which said his statement was making headlines in Pakistan. Tweeting in Hindi, he said after the Pulwama “durghatna” (accident) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) strike, "sandeh” (doubt) is being expressed in some foreign media reports following which “vishwasniyata” (credibility) of the Government of India is under question. The former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, who has made controversial statements in the past, also questioned the casualty claim in the February 26 air raid and demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi to come clear on the same. "Prime Minister, some ministers of your government say 300 terrorists killed, BJP president says 250 are killed, Yogi Adityanath says 400 people were killed and your minister SS Ahluwalia says that no one died. And you are silent about this issue. The country wants to know who is a liar in this," Digvijaya Singh said. His statement comes at a time when many opposition leaders are raising questions on the Balakot strike by IAF and are asking for proof on the exact casualty inflicted on terrorists. Talking to reporters in Delhi, he said, “What else will you call a terrorist attack.” Hitting out at Digvijaya Singh, BJP leader and Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Congress leader’s remarks were making headline news in Pakistan. Another BJP leader and Union Minister VK Singh asked him whether the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was a terror incident or just an "accident". Prasad said, "Has Digvijaya Singh reduced himself to such a low level that he will call the most heinous terrorist attack on 45 CRPF jawans an accident? This is his thinking." At a press conference in New Delhi, he said that there is a “growing competition” among Congress leaders as to who is “more vocal in lowering the morale of the security forces”. "I would appeal to Congress that for the sake of India, please don't reduce the morale, courage and prestige of our forces for your extraneous political interest. They neither have faith in the Army, nor the Air Force. And this is all for votes. We will like to know is all this tweeting a part of the conspiracy. The statement of the Congress spokesperson is making headline news in Pakistan," he said. "However, what else will you expect from Digivjaya Singh. After the Batla House encounter, Singh went to Azamgarh and questioned the police operations. He has called Zakir Naik a symbol of humanity. He is the same person who had said Osama ji and Hafiz Saeed Saab", Prasad said. He also came down heavily on Congress for questioning the outcome of the IAF raid in Balakot and demanding evidence on the casualty figure. VK Singh, who is Minister of State for External Affairs, said in Ranchi, "With due respect, I would like to ask Digvijaya Singh Ji, was Rajiv Gandhi`s assassination an accident or a terror incident? Let him answer this first." Last week, BJP president Amit Shah had claimed that over 250 terrorists were killed in the IAF air raid. On Shah`s statement, VK Singh said that he did not give a "confirmed figure" and it was just an "estimate". "It`s an estimate. He is not saying this is a confirmed figure. He is saying these many people might have died," the former Army Chief said. "The figure is of the attack on Balakot (in Pakistan). The attack was only at one place, nowhere else. The target was selected carefully, away from residential areas, to avoid civilian casualty," he told reporters. Asked about Digvijaya`s remarks, Congress leader and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath declined to comment. Earlier, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar had also attacked Congress for its comments on Balakot strike and said that only “Congress party can do this sin of refuting the information of armed forces”. "What has happened to Congress? They are talking exact opposite to sentiments of the nation, they are refuting the information of armed forces. This doesn`t happen in any other democratic country where distrust is shown towards armed forces itself. Only Congress can do this sin," the BJP leader said. After the 2008 Batla house encounter, Digvijaya Singh had questioned the veracity of Delhi Police’s evidence. He had also once used a suffix indicating respect for UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed. In August 2016, he had also addressed Jammu and Kashmir as India-occupied Kashmir. However, he later clarified that it is an integral part of India. While speaking at an event in Ahmedabad, Prime Minister Modi had on Monday asserted that terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the Earth and asked his critics not to question the valour of the armed forces even if they are not willing to trust him. IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa on Monday said the fighter planes had hit the target given to them but he cannot give the number of casualties suffered as it is for the government to do so. India carried out the air strike in less than two weeks after the terror attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Pulwama in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives.

Digvijaya Singh calls Pulwama attack 'accident', draws BJP ire

India has said Pakistan is indulging in propaganda to try and divert attention from the issue of terrorism. This was after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-says-it-stopped-indian-submarine-from-entering-its-waters-201282">Pakistan said Tuesday that it had stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters</a>.&nbsp;

"Over the past several days, we have witnessed Pakistan indulging in false propaganda and spread of misinformation. The Indian Navy does not take cognisance of such propaganda," the Indian Navy said in a statement.&nbsp;

Pakistan released a video of the&nbsp;Indian submarine purportedly trying to enter its waters.

Earlier in the day, WION learnt that on the diplomatic front New Delhi has informed the global community that no such movement of Indian assets (the submarine) had taken place and that "in fact, they are not in the vicinity."&nbsp;

New Delhi said Pakistan is playing up the situation to divert the "attention of the international community from our concern of terror to the so-called threat from India". It further added that "we should not fall for it".

Indian authorities said Tuesday that the video released by Pakistan matches a similar video released by Pakistan in 2016, which made the same claim then, suggesting Pakistan is trying to shift focus.

After India's air strike on February 26 and Pakistan's counter-strike, Islamabad had informed foreign envoys in Pakistan that India planned to bomb Karachi. When approached by the world community, New Delhi clarified that that was not the case.&nbsp;

India has said Pakistan is indulging in propaganda to try and divert attention from the issue of terrorism. This was after Pakistan said Tuesday that it had stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters.

India has said Pakistan is indulging in propaganda to try and divert attention from the issue of terrorism. This was after Pakistan said Tuesday that it had stopped an Indian submarine from entering its waters. "Over the past several days, we have witnessed Pakistan indulging in false propaganda and spread of misinformation. The Indian Navy does not take cognisance of such propaganda," the Indian Navy said in a statement. Pakistan released a video of the Indian submarine purportedly trying to enter its waters. Earlier in the day, WION learnt that on the diplomatic front New Delhi has informed the global community that no such movement of Indian assets (the submarine) had taken place and that "in fact, they are not in the vicinity." New Delhi said Pakistan is playing up the situation to divert the "attention of the international community from our concern of terror to the so-called threat from India". It further added that "we should not fall for it". Indian authorities said Tuesday that the video released by Pakistan matches a similar video released by Pakistan in 2016, which made the same claim then, suggesting Pakistan is trying to shift focus. After India's air strike on February 26 and Pakistan's counter-strike, Islamabad had informed foreign envoys in Pakistan that India planned to bomb Karachi. When approached by the world community, New Delhi clarified that that was not the case.

Pakistan says Indian submarine tried to enter its waters, India says propaganda to divert attention from terror

Seventeen kilometres from the site of the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force convoy in south Kashmir’s Pulwama in which <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">at least 40 personnel died</a>, Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits have come together to restore an 80-year-old temple and thereby send out a message of communal harmony.&nbsp;

Restoration of the temple at Achan village has begun full speed with members of both communities contributing towards it.&nbsp;

The temple is located only a few kilometres from the house of Adil Ahmad Dar, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist who carried out the attack</a>.

“We Muslims here consider this temple important and remember the old times when people used to come here to pray,” a local man — a Kashmiri Muslim — told WION.&nbsp;

“We are living here in communal harmony and the local Muslim community have also helped us in this move. We are here together for this and will continue to live like that,” a Kashmiri Pandit told WION.&nbsp;

To give the temple a facelift, an old spring and waterway will be reconstructed. That will take a few weeks, and will be followed by a religious ceremony.

The opening of the temple is expected to send out a strong message of peace and brotherhood amid the hatemongering that has followed the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

Seventeen kilometres from the site of the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force convoy in south Kashmir’s Pulwama in which at least 40 personnel died, Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits have come together to restore an 80-year-old temple and thereby send out a message of communal harmony.

Seventeen kilometres from the site of the terrorist attack on the Central Reserve Police Force convoy in south Kashmir’s Pulwama in which at least 40 personnel died, Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits have come together to restore an 80-year-old temple and thereby send out a message of communal harmony. Restoration of the temple at Achan village has begun full speed with members of both communities contributing towards it. The temple is located only a few kilometres from the house of Adil Ahmad Dar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist who carried out the attack. “We Muslims here consider this temple important and remember the old times when people used to come here to pray,” a local man — a Kashmiri Muslim — told WION. “We are living here in communal harmony and the local Muslim community have also helped us in this move. We are here together for this and will continue to live like that,” a Kashmiri Pandit told WION. To give the temple a facelift, an old spring and waterway will be reconstructed. That will take a few weeks, and will be followed by a religious ceremony. The opening of the temple is expected to send out a strong message of peace and brotherhood amid the hatemongering that has followed the Pulwama attack.

Watch: A few kms from Pulwama site, Kashmiri Muslims & Pandits send out message of communal harmony

The temple is located only a few kilometres from the house of Adil Ahmad Dar, the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist who carried out the Pulwama attack.

A few kms from Pulwama attack site, Kashmiri Muslims & Pandits send out message of communal harmony

Actor John Abraham said on Monday that his upcoming film<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/romeo-akbar-walter-trailer-john-abraham-goes-to-the-enemy-state-in-this-spy-thriller-201065"> 'Romeo Akbar Walter' </a>is not a chest-thumping nationalist project and he himself would like to stay away from jingoistic movies.&nbsp; 
 
Directed by Robbie Grewal, the espionage thriller chronicles the story of a spy who goes to Pakistan.&nbsp; 
 
"It's very important to make films with good stories. If tomorrow, there's a great patriotic film, I would love to do it. But I would not like to do jingoistic films. I am not anti any other country, I am not anti any other religion.&nbsp; 
 
"I'm very pro-secular and I would like to make films that reflect the true nature of this country," John told reporters here.&nbsp; 
 
The actor said the film looks at people from an objective gaze and doesn't colour anyone with judgements.&nbsp; 
 
"It's a very objective film. No one is bad or good in this, it's just how you look at things. We are not depicting any other side as the bad side. It's a story of a spy who goes across, but it's a different story than 'Raazi' or many of the other stories. 
 
"It's not jingoistic, typical flag saluting film. It's very different and that's why we are proud to be associated with it." 
 
John said the project's key requirement was "extreme research" and the team did just that as it's a sensitive topic and there's a sense of responsibility riding on them.&nbsp; 
 
The actor, however, said there's nothing wrong in making films about war heroes.&nbsp; 
 
"If you look at Hollywood, it makes fantastic war films and they glorify their soldiers, so why can't we? I think it's a great time for India, the audience." 
 
At the event, John also shut down a reporter when he asked the actor will "tempt" people through the film to take action, after the Pulwama attack.&nbsp; 
 
The actor said, "You have to be very careful with the way you ask questions, you have a responsibility. Please apologise to everyone."&nbsp; 
 
'Romeo Akbar Walter' is scheduled to release on April 5.&nbsp;

Actor John Abraham said on Monday that his upcoming film 'Romeo Akbar Walter' is not a chest-thumping nationalist project and he himself would like to stay away from jingoistic movies.

Actor John Abraham said on Monday that his upcoming film 'Romeo Akbar Walter' is not a chest-thumping nationalist project and he himself would like to stay away from jingoistic movies. Directed by Robbie Grewal, the espionage thriller chronicles the story of a spy who goes to Pakistan. "It's very important to make films with good stories. If tomorrow, there's a great patriotic film, I would love to do it. But I would not like to do jingoistic films. I am not anti any other country, I am not anti any other religion. "I'm very pro-secular and I would like to make films that reflect the true nature of this country," John told reporters here. The actor said the film looks at people from an objective gaze and doesn't colour anyone with judgements. "It's a very objective film. No one is bad or good in this, it's just how you look at things. We are not depicting any other side as the bad side. It's a story of a spy who goes across, but it's a different story than 'Raazi' or many of the other stories. "It's not jingoistic, typical flag saluting film. It's very different and that's why we are proud to be associated with it." John said the project's key requirement was "extreme research" and the team did just that as it's a sensitive topic and there's a sense of responsibility riding on them. The actor, however, said there's nothing wrong in making films about war heroes. "If you look at Hollywood, it makes fantastic war films and they glorify their soldiers, so why can't we? I think it's a great time for India, the audience." At the event, John also shut down a reporter when he asked the actor will "tempt" people through the film to take action, after the Pulwama attack. The actor said, "You have to be very careful with the way you ask questions, you have a responsibility. Please apologise to everyone." 'Romeo Akbar Walter' is scheduled to release on April 5.

John Abraham: Not against any country or religion, wouldn't like to do a jingoistic film

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday cautioned the ex-servicemen of the country and requested them to not to believe on rumours.

"I request you to please do not believe in people who spread rumours, please be aware. We need to reject those who use simplicity and sincerity of soldiers to mislead, "she said while addressing to the ex-servicemen in Dehradun.

Praising her government for the war memorial she further said, "For the last 60 years a National War Memorial was pending, we have had four major wars so far, there wasn't a single war memorial at national level dedicated to the martyrs of all those wars. A war memorial was dedicated to the forces this February".

Her comments came amid the rising speculations by the oppositions over the number of deaths caused in Pakistan after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-chief-amit-shah-says-more-than-250-terrorists-killed-in-aerial-strike-against-jem-201061">IAF airstrike</a> on February 26.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26 launched pre-emptive airstrikes at a large Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror training camp in Balakot in Pakistan.&nbsp;

The airstrikes were undertaken in retaliation to the terror attack in Pulwama in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. JeM had claimed responsibility for the attack.

On February 28, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had asked the government to spell out "details" of the exact place where the air raid was carried out and the casualties inflicted, stating that international media claimed that there was no damage in the strike.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday cautioned the ex-servicemen of the country and requested them to not to believe on rumours. "I request you to please do not believe in people who spread rumours, please be aware.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday cautioned the ex-servicemen of the country and requested them to not to believe on rumours. "I request you to please do not believe in people who spread rumours, please be aware. We need to reject those who use simplicity and sincerity of soldiers to mislead, "she said while addressing to the ex-servicemen in Dehradun. Praising her government for the war memorial she further said, "For the last 60 years a National War Memorial was pending, we have had four major wars so far, there wasn't a single war memorial at national level dedicated to the martyrs of all those wars. A war memorial was dedicated to the forces this February". Her comments came amid the rising speculations by the oppositions over the number of deaths caused in Pakistan after the IAF airstrike on February 26. The Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26 launched pre-emptive airstrikes at a large Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror training camp in Balakot in Pakistan. The airstrikes were undertaken in retaliation to the terror attack in Pulwama in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. JeM had claimed responsibility for the attack. On February 28, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had asked the government to spell out "details" of the exact place where the air raid was carried out and the casualties inflicted, stating that international media claimed that there was no damage in the strike.

Do not believe in people who spread rumours: Nirmala Sitharaman to ex-servicemen

The dossiers provided by India over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-india-hits-out-at-pakistan-sends-a-message-to-china-197486">Pulwama attack </a>&nbsp;“contain no actionable evidence” on the basis of which Pakistan could take action against Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) or its chief Masood Azhar, Pakistani TV channels claimed on Monday, quoting government sources.

ARY and Geo channels carried similar reports on this, which clearly reflected <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/reject-insinuation-by-india-to-link-pulwama-attack-to-pak-without-investigation-pak-government-197496">Pakistan government</a>’s disinterest in acting on the evidence provided by India like it has been doing in the past.

India gave the dossiers to Pakistan after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan promised to act against JeM if "actionable evidence" was provided.

JeM, which is based in Pakistan, had carried out a ghastly terror attack on a CRPF convoy on February 14 in Pulwama district of Kashmir, killing 40 security personnel.

The terror outfit had later claimed responsibility for it and issued the video of the suicide bomber.

Geo TV, quoting “high-level government sources” also said that security agencies of Pakistan and India “remain in contact despite the tension” and that “there was also contact on the night of February 27-28.”

The two TV channels, quoting “sources”, also claimed that India was planning to launch missile attacks at various targets in this country with the help of Israel on February 27.

ARY News said that in retaliation Pakistan had “also aimed eight to nine targets” in India.

“India had planned to carry out an attack on Pakistan via Rajasthan and it had also decided to use missiles,” the ARY claimed, quoting “sources”.

The report also claimed that Israel had “an aim to dent Pakistan’s nuclear assets”.&nbsp;

The dossiers provided by India over the Pulwama attack “contain no actionable evidence” on the basis of which Pakistan could take action against Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) or its chief Masood Azhar, Pakistani TV channels claimed on Monday, quoting government sources.

The dossiers provided by India over the Pulwama attack “contain no actionable evidence” on the basis of which Pakistan could take action against Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) or its chief Masood Azhar, Pakistani TV channels claimed on Monday, quoting government sources. ARY and Geo channels carried similar reports on this, which clearly reflected Pakistan government’s disinterest in acting on the evidence provided by India like it has been doing in the past. India gave the dossiers to Pakistan after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan promised to act against JeM if "actionable evidence" was provided. JeM, which is based in Pakistan, had carried out a ghastly terror attack on a CRPF convoy on February 14 in Pulwama district of Kashmir, killing 40 security personnel. The terror outfit had later claimed responsibility for it and issued the video of the suicide bomber. Geo TV, quoting “high-level government sources” also said that security agencies of Pakistan and India “remain in contact despite the tension” and that “there was also contact on the night of February 27-28.” The two TV channels, quoting “sources”, also claimed that India was planning to launch missile attacks at various targets in this country with the help of Israel on February 27. ARY News said that in retaliation Pakistan had “also aimed eight to nine targets” in India. “India had planned to carry out an attack on Pakistan via Rajasthan and it had also decided to use missiles,” the ARY claimed, quoting “sources”. The report also claimed that Israel had “an aim to dent Pakistan’s nuclear assets”.

India's dossiers on Pulwama contain 'no actionable evidence': Pakistani media quoting sources

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that the terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the earth and asked his critics not to question the valour of the armed forces even if they are not willing to trust him.

"Chun-chun ke hisaab lena, ye meri fitrat hai... woh agar saatven pataal mein bhi chupe hon, toh kheench kar nikaal kar maarunga".&nbsp;

"It&nbsp;is my nature to give a befitting reply...even if they are hidden deep under the Earth, I will pull them out and eliminate them," he said at a programme herewhile referring to terrorists.

"Yeh hamara siddhant hai ki hum ghar mai ghus kar maarenge...Main lamba intezaar nahin kar sakta (It is our policy to hit enemies inside their territory..... I don't like to wait for long)," he said and noted that he tends to heed to the advice of the armed forces on issues of national security".

Hitting out at the political critics, Prime Minister Modi said that they have made such statements which make headlines in Pakistani newspapers and are lauded in Pakistan's Parliament.

"Is this the way you are serving the national interest?...You may question me on my policies. You may not trust me but at least trust the armed forces. Don't raise questions over their valour," the Prime Minister said at the inauguration of the civil hospital here.

He added, "Was there any election when we conducted the surgical strike for the first time? We have been affected by terrorism for the last 40 years. I don't care for power. I am only concerned about my country's security."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that the terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the earth and asked his critics not to question the valour of the armed forces even if they are not willing to trust him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that the terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the earth and asked his critics not to question the valour of the armed forces even if they are not willing to trust him. "Chun-chun ke hisaab lena, ye meri fitrat hai... woh agar saatven pataal mein bhi chupe hon, toh kheench kar nikaal kar maarunga". "It is my nature to give a befitting reply...even if they are hidden deep under the Earth, I will pull them out and eliminate them," he said at a programme herewhile referring to terrorists. "Yeh hamara siddhant hai ki hum ghar mai ghus kar maarenge...Main lamba intezaar nahin kar sakta (It is our policy to hit enemies inside their territory..... I don't like to wait for long)," he said and noted that he tends to heed to the advice of the armed forces on issues of national security". Hitting out at the political critics, Prime Minister Modi said that they have made such statements which make headlines in Pakistani newspapers and are lauded in Pakistan's Parliament. "Is this the way you are serving the national interest?...You may question me on my policies. You may not trust me but at least trust the armed forces. Don't raise questions over their valour," the Prime Minister said at the inauguration of the civil hospital here. He added, "Was there any election when we conducted the surgical strike for the first time? We have been affected by terrorism for the last 40 years. I don't care for power. I am only concerned about my country's security."

Terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the Earth: PM Modi

Britain's Junior Foreign Minister Mark Field was in India from March 1 to 3, during which time he met Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and discussed recent tensions between India and Pakistan. He said the UK stands "shoulder-to-shoulder with India in condemnation of the appalling terror attack in Pulwama".

Calling India a key partner, Mark Field said, "I expressed the UK’s concern about the current tensions, discussed the importance of creating greater regional stability, including the urgent need to tackle terrorism."

He further added that the UK encourages "both sides to come together to look for a peaceful diplomatic solution".

It is important to note that British Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/british-pm-theresa-may-urges-action-on-terrorist-groups-in-a-call-with-pakistans-imran-khan-200952">Theresa May spoke to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday</a> and called on Islamabad to do more on the issue of terrorism.

A Downing Street Spokesperson said," The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of Pakistan taking action against all terrorist groups, in support of global efforts to combat terrorism."

Welcoming the release of wing Commander Abhinandan who was captured by Pakistan after its strikes on Indian military installation on February 27, the spokesperson said, "The leaders discussed the need to address the causes of this conflict" which is the issue of terror emanating from Pakistan.

It is interesting to note that the readout from the Pakistani government on Imran-Theresa May talks did not mention the issue of terror raised by the UK Prime Minister.&nbsp;

The readout said, "Prime Minister Imran Khan apprised the UK Prime Minister of Pakistan’s perspective on the developments since the Pulwama incident."

Pakistan is facing global pressure and Isolation on the issue of terrorism. In aftermath of Indian strikes on terror camps on February 26 France, US, UK, Australia asked Pakistan to act on terror and call for restraint. China called for restraint but did not ask Pakistan to act on the issue of terror. EU and Japan have also called Pakistan to act on terrorism on February 28.

Britain's Junior Foreign Minister Mark Field was in India from March 1 to 3, during which time he met Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and discussed recent tensions between India and Pakistan.

Britain's Junior Foreign Minister Mark Field was in India from March 1 to 3, during which time he met Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and discussed recent tensions between India and Pakistan. He said the UK stands "shoulder-to-shoulder with India in condemnation of the appalling terror attack in Pulwama". Calling India a key partner, Mark Field said, "I expressed the UK’s concern about the current tensions, discussed the importance of creating greater regional stability, including the urgent need to tackle terrorism." He further added that the UK encourages "both sides to come together to look for a peaceful diplomatic solution". It is important to note that British Prime Minister Theresa May spoke to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday and called on Islamabad to do more on the issue of terrorism. A Downing Street Spokesperson said," The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of Pakistan taking action against all terrorist groups, in support of global efforts to combat terrorism." Welcoming the release of wing Commander Abhinandan who was captured by Pakistan after its strikes on Indian military installation on February 27, the spokesperson said, "The leaders discussed the need to address the causes of this conflict" which is the issue of terror emanating from Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the readout from the Pakistani government on Imran-Theresa May talks did not mention the issue of terror raised by the UK Prime Minister. The readout said, "Prime Minister Imran Khan apprised the UK Prime Minister of Pakistan’s perspective on the developments since the Pulwama incident." Pakistan is facing global pressure and Isolation on the issue of terrorism. In aftermath of Indian strikes on terror camps on February 26 France, US, UK, Australia asked Pakistan to act on terror and call for restraint. China called for restraint but did not ask Pakistan to act on the issue of terror. EU and Japan have also called Pakistan to act on terrorism on February 28.

'Pakistan must act on terror,' junior British foreign minister says in India

In the latest development with respect to the Pulwama terror attack, an audio clip has emerged which is believed to carry a message from Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar's brother.&nbsp;

In the clip, accessed by WION, the JeM leader admits damage to its training centre by Indian aircraft. The clip has surfaced even when Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan has denied the presence of any terror camps in Balakot when the Indian Air Force carried out strikes earlier this week.&nbsp;

The audio message is believed to be delivered by Azhar's younger brother Maulana Amman who is heard admitting that the Indian aircraft have bombed shelters where jihadis were being trained.

Pakistan has maintained that India bombed what was apparently a forest reserve.

Meanwhile, an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-to-50-killed-in-indian-air-strike-on-pakistans-balakot-italian-journalist-quoting-eyewitness-200787">Italian journalist has told WION</a> that between 40 to 50 people were killed in the Indian air strikes on Pakistan's Balakot on Tuesday night. The air strikes — carried out by Mirage 2000s — Indian authorities have said, targeted a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp.&nbsp;

Reports in the Indian media had earlier said the death toll may have been as high as 350. The Pakistanis had said there had been no deaths at all.&nbsp;

The journalist — Francesca Marino — told WION that she had got confirmation from her source that the death toll was between 40 and 50, and the wounded between 35 to 40.&nbsp;

She told WION's Bhairavi Singh her source was a person living in the area.&nbsp;

"Yesterday I've got confirmations... 100% reliable confirmations," Marino, who was speaking from Rome, told WION.&nbsp;

She added that the dead included 12 young trainees of the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group who had all been sleeping in the same area.&nbsp;

Marino told WION that the dead included a JeM trainer called Mufti Moeen, and a bomb expert called Usman Ghani. &nbsp;

Mario added that "the population there is very scared, it is very difficult to get evidence out of there" but that "I am confident I will also get some video proof".&nbsp;

In the latest development with respect to the Pulwama terror attack, an audio clip has emerged which is believed to carry a message from Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar's brother.

In the latest development with respect to the Pulwama terror attack, an audio clip has emerged which is believed to carry a message from Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar's brother. In the clip, accessed by WION, the JeM leader admits damage to its training centre by Indian aircraft. The clip has surfaced even when Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan has denied the presence of any terror camps in Balakot when the Indian Air Force carried out strikes earlier this week. The audio message is believed to be delivered by Azhar's younger brother Maulana Amman who is heard admitting that the Indian aircraft have bombed shelters where jihadis were being trained. Pakistan has maintained that India bombed what was apparently a forest reserve. Meanwhile, an Italian journalist has told WION that between 40 to 50 people were killed in the Indian air strikes on Pakistan's Balakot on Tuesday night. The air strikes — carried out by Mirage 2000s — Indian authorities have said, targeted a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp. Reports in the Indian media had earlier said the death toll may have been as high as 350. The Pakistanis had said there had been no deaths at all. The journalist — Francesca Marino — told WION that she had got confirmation from her source that the death toll was between 40 and 50, and the wounded between 35 to 40. She told WION's Bhairavi Singh her source was a person living in the area. "Yesterday I've got confirmations... 100% reliable confirmations," Marino, who was speaking from Rome, told WION. She added that the dead included 12 young trainees of the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group who had all been sleeping in the same area. Marino told WION that the dead included a JeM trainer called Mufti Moeen, and a bomb expert called Usman Ghani. Mario added that "the population there is very scared, it is very difficult to get evidence out of there" but that "I am confident I will also get some video proof".

In audio message, JeM admits damage to training camp in Pakistan after Indian strikes

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed NDA's Sankalp rally at Patna's Gandhi Maidan in Bihar. The Prime Minister started his address by paying homage to the martyrs of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-pakistans-denial-mode-on-jaish-involvement-continues-200626">Pulwama terror attack</a>. He said that the "new India" will not tolerate the killings of its jawaans.&nbsp;

"I salute the martyrs of Pulwama, and the sons of Bihar who laid their lives down for the country. The whole nation is with the families of the jawans," he stated. &nbsp;

PM Modi slammed the Congress and its allies, accusing them of making statements that "demoralises our security forces".&nbsp;

"Why are they giving statements which are benefitting our enemies?" he asked.&nbsp;

"While I want to eliminate terror, opposition parties are conspiring to finish me," he noted.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi in Patna: I salute the martyrs of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwama</a>, the whole nation is standing with the families of the jawans <a href="https://t.co/p8wDSGtPUx">pic.twitter.com/p8wDSGtPUx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1102112918739607552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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During the rally, the Prime Minister took a jibe at those who criticise him and call&nbsp;him 'Chowkidar'. He said that "this chowkidar will always be alert" for the service of the nation. He also told the people of Bihar that the BJP government "dared to end the culture of corruption and middlemen which had been a normal practice in the country for decades."

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PM Narendra Modi in Patna: These days a competition is underway to abuse the 'Chowkidaar', but you be assured, this 'Chowkidaar' of yours is as alert as ever. <a href="https://t.co/uK1iNR0nuw">pic.twitter.com/uK1iNR0nuw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1102115492054122498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also spoke at the rally, sharing the stage with PM Modi after 9 years.&nbsp;

Kumar lauded PM Modi's effort in taking action against terror.&nbsp;

"The way investigations have been done against the perpetrators of terror is commendable, also <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-deal-was-negotiated-to-get-back-abhinandan-government-sources-to-wion-200766">the way they got our pilot back</a>," the Bihar CM stated.&nbsp;

The Sankalp rally is aimed at taking a resolve to make a new and secure India under the leadership of PM Modi, BJP General Secretary Bhupendra Yadav said Saturday.&nbsp;The rally sounded the bugle for NDA's Lok Sabha election campaign.&nbsp;

The ruling coalition's Sankalp rally at Gandhi Maidan will also be addressed by Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Workers and leaders of all the three NDA constituents - BJP, JD(U) and LJP- worked tirelessly to make the rally a grand success, Yadav said on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed NDA's Sankalp rally at Patna's Gandhi Maidan in Bihar. The Prime Minister started his address by paying homage to the martyrs of the Pulwama terror attack.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed NDA's Sankalp rally at Patna's Gandhi Maidan in Bihar. The Prime Minister started his address by paying homage to the martyrs of the Pulwama terror attack. He said that the "new India" will not tolerate the killings of its jawaans. "I salute the martyrs of Pulwama, and the sons of Bihar who laid their lives down for the country. The whole nation is with the families of the jawans," he stated. PM Modi slammed the Congress and its allies, accusing them of making statements that "demoralises our security forces". "Why are they giving statements which are benefitting our enemies?" he asked. "While I want to eliminate terror, opposition parties are conspiring to finish me," he noted. PM Narendra Modi in Patna: I salute the martyrs of #Pulwama, the whole nation is standing with the families of the jawans pic.twitter.com/p8wDSGtPUx — ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2019 × During the rally, the Prime Minister took a jibe at those who criticise him and call him 'Chowkidar'. He said that "this chowkidar will always be alert" for the service of the nation. He also told the people of Bihar that the BJP government "dared to end the culture of corruption and middlemen which had been a normal practice in the country for decades." PM Narendra Modi in Patna: These days a competition is underway to abuse the 'Chowkidaar', but you be assured, this 'Chowkidaar' of yours is as alert as ever. pic.twitter.com/uK1iNR0nuw — ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2019 × Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also spoke at the rally, sharing the stage with PM Modi after 9 years. Kumar lauded PM Modi's effort in taking action against terror. "The way investigations have been done against the perpetrators of terror is commendable, also the way they got our pilot back," the Bihar CM stated. The Sankalp rally is aimed at taking a resolve to make a new and secure India under the leadership of PM Modi, BJP General Secretary Bhupendra Yadav said Saturday. The rally sounded the bugle for NDA's Lok Sabha election campaign. The ruling coalition's Sankalp rally at Gandhi Maidan will also be addressed by Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, news agency PTI reported. Workers and leaders of all the three NDA constituents - BJP, JD(U) and LJP- worked tirelessly to make the rally a grand success, Yadav said on Saturday.

While I want to eliminate terror, opposition is conspiring to finish me: PM Modi during Sankalp rally in Patna

A parliamentary panel Friday asked the government to go all out to explain to the international community the reasons behind India's decision to carry out an air strike on<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wing-commander-abhinandan-varthaman-returns-to-india-from-pakistan-200585"> Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror </a>camp inside Pakistan.

The suggestion came when f<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/iaf-pilot-wing-commander-abhinandan-varthaman-crosses-wagah-border-reaches-india-200569">oreign secretary Vijay Gokhale</a> briefed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on external affairs about the latest developments that have taken place between India and Pakistan after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack by the JeM in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

The panel told the foreign secretary that the government should highlight the impact of the air strike and the information about the extent of damage, including casualties, suffered by the JeM.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

This will ensure that no international agency questions the impact of the strike, a member of the panel said.&nbsp;

Gokhale, who was assisted by officials of the Ministry of external affairs (MEA), informed the panel's members about the air strike on the JeM terror camp in Pakistan and also about the retaliation by the western neighbour, a source said.

A committee member, who was present in the meeting, said foreign ministry officials had briefed the panel earlier in October when Imran Khan was elected prime minister of Pakistan.

On Friday, the briefing included the MEA's assessment of the Pakistan prime minister's tenure so far, the member said.

The foreign secretary also told the panel that an attempt by the Pakistan Air Force on to target military installations in India was unsuccessful as it was thwarted by the Indian Air Force, which lost a jet in the fight back.

The members told the foreign secretary that the government should vigorously publicise across the world the reasons behind New Delhi's move to target the terror camp, a member later said.

Another member said the foreign secretary detailed the diplomatic measures that the ministry took right from after the Pulwama attack to the ensuing air strike, and efforts thereon to seek out the international community to brief them about the impasse, in an effort to isolate Pakistan globally.

Foreign Secretary Gokhale assured the committee that diplomatic overtures to the international community were still underway.

He also informed the members on how India got the support of the members of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on the issue.&nbsp;

In a major diplomatic achievement, India on Friday for the first time addressed the OIC meeting in Abu Dhabi where External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is a guest of honour.

Pakistan has boycotted the plenary session of the OIC meet to protest India's participation there.&nbsp;

One of the parliamentary panel's members also said while a slew of questions were asked to the foreign secretary about the anti-terror strikes against Pakistan, Gokhale was "cautious" about answering them, taking the stand that he could not reveal much because of the "sensitive nature" of the information and "national security".&nbsp;

The panel raised some queries about the assessment of damage caused by the air strike, but Gokhale said he was not authorised to divulge details.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Congress president Rahul Gandhi is a member of the committee but was not present in the meeting Friday.

The panel members also lauded the armed forces, including the IAF, and described the air strike as a "glorious and heroic" job which needs to be widely publicised.

The purpose of the meeting, described as good and constructive, was part of "parliamentary accountability" and the MEA gave a briefing in this regard, a member said.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The meeting was attended by chairperson Shashi Tharoor, Arka Keshari Deo, Prof Richard Hay, Jagdambika Pal, Magannti Venakateshwara Rao, Mohammad Salim, P Bhattacharya, Sambhaji Chhatrapati, Swapan Dasgupta, Chunibhai Kanjibhai Gohel and Kumar Ketkar.

Tensions between the two countries escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. It came 12 days after the JeM claimed responsibility for the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir.

A parliamentary panel Friday asked the government to go all out to explain to the international community the reasons behind India's decision to carry out an air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp inside Pakistan.

A parliamentary panel Friday asked the government to go all out to explain to the international community the reasons behind India's decision to carry out an air strike on Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp inside Pakistan. The suggestion came when foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale briefed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on external affairs about the latest developments that have taken place between India and Pakistan after the February 14 Pulwama terror attack by the JeM in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. The panel told the foreign secretary that the government should highlight the impact of the air strike and the information about the extent of damage, including casualties, suffered by the JeM. This will ensure that no international agency questions the impact of the strike, a member of the panel said. Gokhale, who was assisted by officials of the Ministry of external affairs (MEA), informed the panel's members about the air strike on the JeM terror camp in Pakistan and also about the retaliation by the western neighbour, a source said. A committee member, who was present in the meeting, said foreign ministry officials had briefed the panel earlier in October when Imran Khan was elected prime minister of Pakistan. On Friday, the briefing included the MEA's assessment of the Pakistan prime minister's tenure so far, the member said. The foreign secretary also told the panel that an attempt by the Pakistan Air Force on to target military installations in India was unsuccessful as it was thwarted by the Indian Air Force, which lost a jet in the fight back. The members told the foreign secretary that the government should vigorously publicise across the world the reasons behind New Delhi's move to target the terror camp, a member later said. Another member said the foreign secretary detailed the diplomatic measures that the ministry took right from after the Pulwama attack to the ensuing air strike, and efforts thereon to seek out the international community to brief them about the impasse, in an effort to isolate Pakistan globally. Foreign Secretary Gokhale assured the committee that diplomatic overtures to the international community were still underway. He also informed the members on how India got the support of the members of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on the issue. In a major diplomatic achievement, India on Friday for the first time addressed the OIC meeting in Abu Dhabi where External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is a guest of honour. Pakistan has boycotted the plenary session of the OIC meet to protest India's participation there. One of the parliamentary panel's members also said while a slew of questions were asked to the foreign secretary about the anti-terror strikes against Pakistan, Gokhale was "cautious" about answering them, taking the stand that he could not reveal much because of the "sensitive nature" of the information and "national security". The panel raised some queries about the assessment of damage caused by the air strike, but Gokhale said he was not authorised to divulge details. Congress president Rahul Gandhi is a member of the committee but was not present in the meeting Friday. The panel members also lauded the armed forces, including the IAF, and described the air strike as a "glorious and heroic" job which needs to be widely publicised. The purpose of the meeting, described as good and constructive, was part of "parliamentary accountability" and the MEA gave a briefing in this regard, a member said. The meeting was attended by chairperson Shashi Tharoor, Arka Keshari Deo, Prof Richard Hay, Jagdambika Pal, Magannti Venakateshwara Rao, Mohammad Salim, P Bhattacharya, Sambhaji Chhatrapati, Swapan Dasgupta, Chunibhai Kanjibhai Gohel and Kumar Ketkar. Tensions between the two countries escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. It came 12 days after the JeM claimed responsibility for the suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir.

Go all out to explain to world reasons behind air strike: Parliamentary panel to govt

It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stand up against extremists, Democratic presidential aspirant Tulsi Gabbard has said, as she slammed the country for providing terrorists with a safe haven which is causing tensions with India.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan after the February 14 Pulwama attack claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Over forty CRPF soldiers were killed in the attack.&nbsp;

India carried out air strikes against the biggest training camp of JeM in Balakot. In the operation, the government said several JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis who were being trained for suicide attacks were killed.&nbsp;

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As long as Pakistan is providing terrorists with a safe haven, there will be heightened tensions between the two countries. It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stand up against the extremists and terrorists.
— Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) <a href="https://twitter.com/TulsiGabbard/status/1101687578929950722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"As long as Pakistan is providing terrorists with a safe haven, there will be heightened tensions between the two countries," Gabbard said.

"It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stand up against the extremists and terrorists,"&nbsp;said Gabbard, a former co-chair of the House Caucus for India and Indian Americans. Gabbard is the four-time lawmaker from Hawaii.

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My heart goes out to the families of the suicide bombing victims in India &amp; the many victims of terror from these same groups that have killed hundreds of Indian and Pakistani civilians over the years. It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stop giving safe haven to these terrorists
— Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) <a href="https://twitter.com/TulsiGabbard/status/1101695488397471744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congressman Ted Yoho also urged Pakistan to take meaningful steps to address terrorist groups.&nbsp;

"Congress and the Indo-Pacific region are carefully watching the latest tensions between India and Pakistan. The last thing the region and the world needs is a conflict between two countries armed with nuclear weapons,"&nbsp;he said.

"I urge Pakistan to take meaningful steps to address terrorist groups operating within their country and for both governments to resolve their differences peacefully,"&nbsp;said Yoho, Lead Republican for the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and Nonproliferation.&nbsp;

It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stand up against extremists, Democratic presidential aspirant Tulsi Gabbard has said, as she slammed the country for providing terrorists with a safe haven which is causing tensions with India.

It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stand up against extremists, Democratic presidential aspirant Tulsi Gabbard has said, as she slammed the country for providing terrorists with a safe haven which is causing tensions with India. Tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan after the February 14 Pulwama attack claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Over forty CRPF soldiers were killed in the attack. India carried out air strikes against the biggest training camp of JeM in Balakot. In the operation, the government said several JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis who were being trained for suicide attacks were killed. As long as Pakistan is providing terrorists with a safe haven, there will be heightened tensions between the two countries. It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stand up against the extremists and terrorists. — Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) March 2, 2019 × "As long as Pakistan is providing terrorists with a safe haven, there will be heightened tensions between the two countries," Gabbard said. "It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stand up against the extremists and terrorists," said Gabbard, a former co-chair of the House Caucus for India and Indian Americans. Gabbard is the four-time lawmaker from Hawaii. My heart goes out to the families of the suicide bombing victims in India & the many victims of terror from these same groups that have killed hundreds of Indian and Pakistani civilians over the years. It's time for Pakistan's leaders to stop giving safe haven to these terrorists — Tulsi Gabbard (@TulsiGabbard) March 2, 2019 × Congressman Ted Yoho also urged Pakistan to take meaningful steps to address terrorist groups. "Congress and the Indo-Pacific region are carefully watching the latest tensions between India and Pakistan. The last thing the region and the world needs is a conflict between two countries armed with nuclear weapons," he said. "I urge Pakistan to take meaningful steps to address terrorist groups operating within their country and for both governments to resolve their differences peacefully," said Yoho, Lead Republican for the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and Nonproliferation.

Time for Pakistan's leaders to stand up against extremists: Tulsi Gabbard

A note issued by the criminal investigation department of the Jammu and Kashmir government has alerted security agencies against a possible threat to security forces deployed in Kashmir.

The intel note has cautioned security agencies against Pak Military Intelligence and Inter-Services Intelligence agents' plan of poisoning the ration of security forces deployed in Kashmir.&nbsp;

The letter accessed by WION reads, “chatter floating by a Pakistani number claims that Pakistan MI (military intelligence) and ISI agents operation in Kashmir are planning to mix poison in ration stocks of security forces deployed in the region”. This has got forces worried and on alert.&nbsp;

The note comes over a fortnight after the deadly Pulwama attack which was carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed.&nbsp;

Authorities have now asked forces to ensure the security of ration depots of all camps. They have also suggested checking the ration being moved to Kashmir to ensure the safety for forces operation in Jammu and Kashmir. 
&nbsp;

A note issued by the criminal investigation department of the Jammu and Kashmir government has alerted security agencies against a possible threat to security forces deployed in Kashmir.

A note issued by the criminal investigation department of the Jammu and Kashmir government has alerted security agencies against a possible threat to security forces deployed in Kashmir. The intel note has cautioned security agencies against Pak Military Intelligence and Inter-Services Intelligence agents' plan of poisoning the ration of security forces deployed in Kashmir. The letter accessed by WION reads, “chatter floating by a Pakistani number claims that Pakistan MI (military intelligence) and ISI agents operation in Kashmir are planning to mix poison in ration stocks of security forces deployed in the region”. This has got forces worried and on alert. The note comes over a fortnight after the deadly Pulwama attack which was carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed. Authorities have now asked forces to ensure the security of ration depots of all camps. They have also suggested checking the ration being moved to Kashmir to ensure the safety for forces operation in Jammu and Kashmir.

J&K: Intel note reveals ISI planning to poison security forces through ration

India has confirmed that the meeting between Indian, Pak officials to decide on the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor is still on. Speaking to WION, a source said, "It concerns the sentiments of a community... we welcome Pakistani delegation for the talks".

The talks will take place on March 14. India has already shared the crossing point for the corridor but Pakistan has suggested an alternate crossing point.

India has already issued a notification for the building of a highway and an integrated check post for the corridor on the Indian side. Dera Baba Nanak land check post in Gurdaspur district of Punjab is the authorized immigration check post for entry into/exit from the Indian side for the holy site.

In November 2018, India, Pakistan approved the building of the Kartarpur corridor for pilgrims to easily visit the Gurudwara, where the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak lived for 18 years. This year marks the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

While Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria termed the Kartarpur corridor as a "corridor of faith" that will build trust between the two countries, Pakistan High Commissioner to New Delhi Sohail Mahmood said the initiative can be instrumental in "facilitating and fortifying" people-to-people bonds.&nbsp;

India has confirmed that the meeting between Indian, Pak officials to decide on the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor is still on. Speaking to WION, a source said, "It concerns the sentiments of a community.

India has confirmed that the meeting between Indian, Pak officials to decide on the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor is still on. Speaking to WION, a source said, "It concerns the sentiments of a community... we welcome Pakistani delegation for the talks". The talks will take place on March 14. India has already shared the crossing point for the corridor but Pakistan has suggested an alternate crossing point. India has already issued a notification for the building of a highway and an integrated check post for the corridor on the Indian side. Dera Baba Nanak land check post in Gurdaspur district of Punjab is the authorized immigration check post for entry into/exit from the Indian side for the holy site. In November 2018, India, Pakistan approved the building of the Kartarpur corridor for pilgrims to easily visit the Gurudwara, where the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak lived for 18 years. This year marks the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. While Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria termed the Kartarpur corridor as a "corridor of faith" that will build trust between the two countries, Pakistan High Commissioner to New Delhi Sohail Mahmood said the initiative can be instrumental in "facilitating and fortifying" people-to-people bonds.

Amid tension, India says talks with Pakistan on Kartarpur corridor still on

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has given Rs 15 lakh to Sundari Devi, wife of Jeet Ram Gurjar of Sundrawali village in Bharatpur, according to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) deputy inspector general (DIG) Jagdish Narayan Meena.&nbsp;

Jeet Ram Gurjar was among the 40 CRPF troopers killed in a suicide bombing in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on February 14 this year, that started the cold war between the countries.

Akshay transferred the said money to his trust, Bharat Ke Veer. CRPF informed the Gurjar’s family about the transfer.

Gurjar’s younger brother, Vikram Singh, thanked the actor for the financial help. “We are very poor. Jeet was the only earning member of the family. This help has come at a time when the family needed it the most,” he said.

The brother said that he is at this time preparing for exams and has to look after his parents too. He said,&nbsp;

He said he was preparing for competitive exams and had to look after his parents and added, “We don’t have a house. After Jeet’s death, the family is back to penury.”

Gurjar is survived by his wife and two minor daughters. His parents, Radhey Shyam and Gopa Devi, were also dependent on him.

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has given Rs 15 lakh to Sundari Devi, wife of Jeet Ram Gurjar of Sundrawali village in Bharatpur, according to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) deputy inspector general (DIG) Jagdish Narayan Meena.

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar has given Rs 15 lakh to Sundari Devi, wife of Jeet Ram Gurjar of Sundrawali village in Bharatpur, according to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) deputy inspector general (DIG) Jagdish Narayan Meena. Jeet Ram Gurjar was among the 40 CRPF troopers killed in a suicide bombing in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on February 14 this year, that started the cold war between the countries. Akshay transferred the said money to his trust, Bharat Ke Veer. CRPF informed the Gurjar’s family about the transfer. Gurjar’s younger brother, Vikram Singh, thanked the actor for the financial help. “We are very poor. Jeet was the only earning member of the family. This help has come at a time when the family needed it the most,” he said. The brother said that he is at this time preparing for exams and has to look after his parents too. He said, He said he was preparing for competitive exams and had to look after his parents and added, “We don’t have a house. After Jeet’s death, the family is back to penury.” Gurjar is survived by his wife and two minor daughters. His parents, Radhey Shyam and Gopa Devi, were also dependent on him.

Akshay Kumar donates Rs 15 lakh to family of jawan killed in Pulwama attack

China on Friday welcomed Pakistan's decision to release the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-awaits-pilots-return-beating-the-retreat-ceremony-cancelled-at-wagah-border-200496"> Indian Air Force pilot and encouraged</a> the two countries to engage in more counter-terrorism cooperation and dialogue for the regional peace and stability.

Pakistan is set to release captured Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot&nbsp;as a "first step" to open negotiations with India.

Pakistan detained the pilot following a fierce engagement between air forces of the two sides along the Line of Control(LoC) when his MiG-21 fighter jet was downed.

Asked how China views Pakistan's decision to release the pilot and whether Beijing played any behind-the-scenes role in it, foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang told reporters: "Well, from the start China has been calling upon the two sides exercise restraint and take measures to ease tensions, engage in dialogue to resolve the differences".

"I have taken note of the developments. China welcomes the goodwill signals released by the Pakistani side. De-escalation serves the common interests of both the countries. We encourage the two sides to engage in more dialogue for the peace and stability in the region," he said.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NXXrB8ofVmw" width="560"></iframe>

About Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's offer to investigate the Pulwama terror attack if credible evidence is provided, Lu said: "We encourage the two sides to take more measures to create favourable atmosphere for the joint efforts to deal with the relevant issue."

"The cooperation on counter-terrorism and jointly uphold the regional peace and stability, this is what China hopes to see".

China's call for more India-Pakistan cooperation on the counter-terrorism comes in the backdrop of Beijing endorsing India's demand for elimination of breeding grounds of terrorism and extremism and agreeing to have joint policy coordination under the aegis of Russia, India, China (RIC) Foreign Ministers mechanism.

Briefing the media after the RIC ministers talks held on February 27th at the Chinese city of Wuzhen, Wang said: "We agreed to jointly combat all forms of terrorism through closer policy coordination and practical cooperation. Especially important is to eradicate the breeding grounds of terrorism and extremism".

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, who attended the meeting, held talks with Wang before the RIC meeting.

Wang, in his concluding remarks, tried to strike a balance by backing Pakistan, saying "we believe that Pakistan has always been opposed to terrorism".

But at the same time, he said China would play a constructive role to de-escalate the tense stand-off between India and Pakistan after the Pulwama attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mahammed (JeM).

China, however, is yet to disclose the stand it would take in the UN Security Council when the US, the UK and France resolution to list <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-asks-world-community-to-take-action-against-jem-and-its-leadership-200408">JeM chief Masood Azhar </a>as a global terrorist comes up for discussion.China has blocked previous three attempts by India and the three countries on the same issue.

On Thursday, it sounded no-committal about the US, the UK and France resolution to list Azhar as a global terrorist.

"As we have said on many occasions, the 1267 committee of the UN Security Council has clear norms on the listing of terrorist organisations or individuals and relevant procedures," Lu said in response to a question on the issue.

China will continue to take a responsible attitude and participate in the discussions of the Security Council's relevant sanctions committees and other subsidiary bodies, he added.

China on Friday welcomed Pakistan's decision to release the Indian Air Force pilot and encouraged the two countries to engage in more counter-terrorism cooperation and dialogue for the regional peace and stability.

China on Friday welcomed Pakistan's decision to release the Indian Air Force pilot and encouraged the two countries to engage in more counter-terrorism cooperation and dialogue for the regional peace and stability. Pakistan is set to release captured Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot as a "first step" to open negotiations with India. Pakistan detained the pilot following a fierce engagement between air forces of the two sides along the Line of Control(LoC) when his MiG-21 fighter jet was downed. Asked how China views Pakistan's decision to release the pilot and whether Beijing played any behind-the-scenes role in it, foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang told reporters: "Well, from the start China has been calling upon the two sides exercise restraint and take measures to ease tensions, engage in dialogue to resolve the differences". "I have taken note of the developments. China welcomes the goodwill signals released by the Pakistani side. De-escalation serves the common interests of both the countries. We encourage the two sides to engage in more dialogue for the peace and stability in the region," he said. About Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's offer to investigate the Pulwama terror attack if credible evidence is provided, Lu said: "We encourage the two sides to take more measures to create favourable atmosphere for the joint efforts to deal with the relevant issue." "The cooperation on counter-terrorism and jointly uphold the regional peace and stability, this is what China hopes to see". China's call for more India-Pakistan cooperation on the counter-terrorism comes in the backdrop of Beijing endorsing India's demand for elimination of breeding grounds of terrorism and extremism and agreeing to have joint policy coordination under the aegis of Russia, India, China (RIC) Foreign Ministers mechanism. Briefing the media after the RIC ministers talks held on February 27th at the Chinese city of Wuzhen, Wang said: "We agreed to jointly combat all forms of terrorism through closer policy coordination and practical cooperation. Especially important is to eradicate the breeding grounds of terrorism and extremism". External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, who attended the meeting, held talks with Wang before the RIC meeting. Wang, in his concluding remarks, tried to strike a balance by backing Pakistan, saying "we believe that Pakistan has always been opposed to terrorism". But at the same time, he said China would play a constructive role to de-escalate the tense stand-off between India and Pakistan after the Pulwama attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mahammed (JeM). China, however, is yet to disclose the stand it would take in the UN Security Council when the US, the UK and France resolution to list JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist comes up for discussion.China has blocked previous three attempts by India and the three countries on the same issue. On Thursday, it sounded no-committal about the US, the UK and France resolution to list Azhar as a global terrorist. "As we have said on many occasions, the 1267 committee of the UN Security Council has clear norms on the listing of terrorist organisations or individuals and relevant procedures," Lu said in response to a question on the issue. China will continue to take a responsible attitude and participate in the discussions of the Security Council's relevant sanctions committees and other subsidiary bodies, he added.

Welcome goodwill signal, Pakistan has always been opposed to terrorism: China

Russia President Vladimir Putin called Prime Minister Narendra Modi over phone today. The Russian president expressed his deep <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-a-peace-gesture-we-are-releasing-captured-pilot-tomorrow-pm-imran-khan-200295">condolences over&nbsp;the Pulwama </a>terrorist attack. Putin also conveyed solidarity of the people of the Russian Federation with the people of India in the fight against terrorism.

PM Modi thanked President Putin for his steadfast support for India's efforts to protect its interests against cross-border terror attacks and renewed India's commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation in countering terrorism. PM Modi told Putin that Russia was as a pillar of special and strategic partnership.

Both the leaders also agreed that the growing cooperation between the two countries will take their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership from strength to strength.

President Putin reiterated the invitation to PM Modi to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok later this year. PM welcomed the invitation and underscored the significance of growing economic cooperation, including in the Russian Far East.

Russia President Vladimir Putin called Prime Minister Narendra Modi over phone today. The Russian president expressed his deep condolences over the Pulwama terrorist attack.

Russia President Vladimir Putin called Prime Minister Narendra Modi over phone today. The Russian president expressed his deep condolences over the Pulwama terrorist attack. Putin also conveyed solidarity of the people of the Russian Federation with the people of India in the fight against terrorism. PM Modi thanked President Putin for his steadfast support for India's efforts to protect its interests against cross-border terror attacks and renewed India's commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation in countering terrorism. PM Modi told Putin that Russia was as a pillar of special and strategic partnership. Both the leaders also agreed that the growing cooperation between the two countries will take their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership from strength to strength. President Putin reiterated the invitation to PM Modi to attend the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok later this year. PM welcomed the invitation and underscored the significance of growing economic cooperation, including in the Russian Far East.

President Putin calls PM Modi, expresses condolences over Pulwama attack

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