West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has agreed to Home Minister Rajnath Singh’s request to acquire 300 acres of land in the state and give it to the Centre for constructing barbed wire fencing along the India-Bangladesh border, officials said Friday.

The move came after the home minister wrote to the chief minister, whose government had been dithering for months over acquiring the land, leading to a delay in construction of a fence along the international border, they said. Singh’s letter to Banerjee, requesting her to acquire and hand over about 300 acres of land, has worked, a Home Ministry official privy to the development said.

The firebrand West Bengal leader enjoys cordial relations with the home minister, who is known to have friends across political parties and acts as an emissary of the Narendra Modi government whenever necessary. With an agreement on handing over the land, the long-delayed construction of the fencing in the West Bengal sector of the India-Bangladesh border is expected to start soon, the official said.

India shares a 4,096-km border with Bangladesh. Of this, 2,216 km falls in West Bengal. The border in the state is infamous for a variety of reasons such as illegal immigration and smuggling of cattle and narcotics. The home minister had sent similar letters to the chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura and Bihar, which helped resolve pending issues related to the acquisition of land in the states, the official said.

The home minister on Friday also reviewed the progress of various projects being undertaken along the borders with China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar. During the meeting, it was conveyed to Singh that various projects got delayed due to the non-availability of environment clearances from state governments.

The home minister asked the officials present to pursue the matter with the concerned governments. Singh also reviewed the progress of ongoing projects being executed by the Land Ports Authority of India and the border management division under the Home Ministry.

There was very good progress and Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) at five border crossing points out of seven approved projects have been completed, an official statement said. Terminals for smooth movement of goods and people at ICP Raxaul and ICP Jogbani on the India-Nepal border, ICP Petrapole and ICP Agartala on the India-Bangladesh border and ICP Attari on India–Pakistan border have been made functional.

At each ICP, facilities have been constructed for customs clearance, immigration, warehouses for storage of goods, approach roads and terminal buildings to adequately handle import and export of goods and entry and exit of people. Work on ICP Moreh on the India-Myanmar border and ICP Dawki on India-Bangladesh border is in advanced stage of completion. The total approved expenditure for the seven ICPs is over Rs 700 crore, the statement said.

The home minister also directed officials to take up construction of an additional 13 ICPs — Hili, Jaigaon, Ghojadanga, Mahadipur, Changrabandha, Fulbari, Rupaidiha, Kawrpuichhuah, Panitanki, Sutarkandi, Sunauli, Banbasa and Bhithamore — and the passenger terminal at Petrapole, the statement said.

Projects have been taken up for construction of 18 coastal border outposts (BOPs) in Gujarat and improvement of border floodlighting in Punjab and Rajasthan. Some floating BOPs have also been approved in Gujarat and West Bengal. To improve coastal security, 121 coastal police stations have been operationalised, 30 jetties have been constructed and biometric cards have been issued to 18.5 lakh fishermen.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has agreed to Home Minister Rajnath Singh’s request to acquire 300 acres of land in the state and give it to the Centre for constructing barbed wire fencing along the India-Bangladesh border, officials said Friday.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has agreed to Home Minister Rajnath Singh’s request to acquire 300 acres of land in the state and give it to the Centre for constructing barbed wire fencing along the India-Bangladesh border, officials said Friday. The move came after the home minister wrote to the chief minister, whose government had been dithering for months over acquiring the land, leading to a delay in construction of a fence along the international border, they said. Singh’s letter to Banerjee, requesting her to acquire and hand over about 300 acres of land, has worked, a Home Ministry official privy to the development said. The firebrand West Bengal leader enjoys cordial relations with the home minister, who is known to have friends across political parties and acts as an emissary of the Narendra Modi government whenever necessary. With an agreement on handing over the land, the long-delayed construction of the fencing in the West Bengal sector of the India-Bangladesh border is expected to start soon, the official said. India shares a 4,096-km border with Bangladesh. Of this, 2,216 km falls in West Bengal. The border in the state is infamous for a variety of reasons such as illegal immigration and smuggling of cattle and narcotics. The home minister had sent similar letters to the chief ministers of Uttar Pradesh, Meghalaya, Tripura and Bihar, which helped resolve pending issues related to the acquisition of land in the states, the official said. The home minister on Friday also reviewed the progress of various projects being undertaken along the borders with China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Myanmar. During the meeting, it was conveyed to Singh that various projects got delayed due to the non-availability of environment clearances from state governments. The home minister asked the officials present to pursue the matter with the concerned governments. Singh also reviewed the progress of ongoing projects being executed by the Land Ports Authority of India and the border management division under the Home Ministry. There was very good progress and Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) at five border crossing points out of seven approved projects have been completed, an official statement said. Terminals for smooth movement of goods and people at ICP Raxaul and ICP Jogbani on the India-Nepal border, ICP Petrapole and ICP Agartala on the India-Bangladesh border and ICP Attari on India–Pakistan border have been made functional. At each ICP, facilities have been constructed for customs clearance, immigration, warehouses for storage of goods, approach roads and terminal buildings to adequately handle import and export of goods and entry and exit of people. Work on ICP Moreh on the India-Myanmar border and ICP Dawki on India-Bangladesh border is in advanced stage of completion. The total approved expenditure for the seven ICPs is over Rs 700 crore, the statement said. The home minister also directed officials to take up construction of an additional 13 ICPs — Hili, Jaigaon, Ghojadanga, Mahadipur, Changrabandha, Fulbari, Rupaidiha, Kawrpuichhuah, Panitanki, Sutarkandi, Sunauli, Banbasa and Bhithamore — and the passenger terminal at Petrapole, the statement said. Projects have been taken up for construction of 18 coastal border outposts (BOPs) in Gujarat and improvement of border floodlighting in Punjab and Rajasthan. Some floating BOPs have also been approved in Gujarat and West Bengal. To improve coastal security, 121 coastal police stations have been operationalised, 30 jetties have been constructed and biometric cards have been issued to 18.5 lakh fishermen.

Mamata Banerjee agrees to Rajnath Singh’s request to acquire 300 acres for Bangladesh border fencing

Taking note of the over 55,000 vacancies in the country's six paramilitary forces, Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday ordered that the recruitment process to fill the posts be expedited, officials said.&nbsp;

Of the total vacancies, 21,000 posts are lying vacant in the country's largest paramilitary force CRPF while there are 16,000 vacant posts in the border guarding force BSF.&nbsp;

Taking stock of the vacancies and recruitment procedure for the paramilitary forces and the Delhi Police during a high-level meeting, the home minister directed initiation of special mechanisms for reducing the delays and fast-tracking the recruitment activities in a time-bound manner, a ministry official said.&nbsp;

Nearly 1.35 lakh youths have been recruited in the paramilitary forces in the last two years.&nbsp;

Among the vacancies, 233 posts are of DSPs and 140 of commandants and DIGs.&nbsp;

The vacancies in the paramilitary forces arise due to retirement, resignation, death, creation of new posts or raising of new battalions, another official said.

Other forces where there are sizeable vacancies include the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Assam Rifles.&nbsp;

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is primarily deployed for the assistance of state police forces in internal security, fighting militants in Jammu and Kashmir and the northeast, and in anti-Naxal operations in Maoist-hit areas.&nbsp;

The Border Security Force (BSF) guards the Indo-Pak and Indo-Bangladesh borders, while the SSB protects the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders, and the ITBP is deployed along the Sino-Indian border.&nbsp;

The CISF guards the airports, nuclear and industrial installations, sensitive government buildings, Delhi Metro besides others.&nbsp;

The Assam Rifles is deployed for guarding the Indo-Myanmar border and fighting insurgency in the northeast.&nbsp;

The combined strength of the paramilitary forces is around 10 lakh.&nbsp;

Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, director generals of the paramilitary forces and commissioner of the Delhi Police were also present in the meeting.&nbsp;

Taking note of the over 55,000 vacancies in the country's six paramilitary forces, Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday ordered that the recruitment process to fill the posts be expedited, officials said.

Taking note of the over 55,000 vacancies in the country's six paramilitary forces, Home Minister Rajnath Singh Tuesday ordered that the recruitment process to fill the posts be expedited, officials said. Of the total vacancies, 21,000 posts are lying vacant in the country's largest paramilitary force CRPF while there are 16,000 vacant posts in the border guarding force BSF. Taking stock of the vacancies and recruitment procedure for the paramilitary forces and the Delhi Police during a high-level meeting, the home minister directed initiation of special mechanisms for reducing the delays and fast-tracking the recruitment activities in a time-bound manner, a ministry official said. Nearly 1.35 lakh youths have been recruited in the paramilitary forces in the last two years. Among the vacancies, 233 posts are of DSPs and 140 of commandants and DIGs. The vacancies in the paramilitary forces arise due to retirement, resignation, death, creation of new posts or raising of new battalions, another official said. Other forces where there are sizeable vacancies include the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and the Assam Rifles. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is primarily deployed for the assistance of state police forces in internal security, fighting militants in Jammu and Kashmir and the northeast, and in anti-Naxal operations in Maoist-hit areas. The Border Security Force (BSF) guards the Indo-Pak and Indo-Bangladesh borders, while the SSB protects the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders, and the ITBP is deployed along the Sino-Indian border. The CISF guards the airports, nuclear and industrial installations, sensitive government buildings, Delhi Metro besides others. The Assam Rifles is deployed for guarding the Indo-Myanmar border and fighting insurgency in the northeast. The combined strength of the paramilitary forces is around 10 lakh. Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, director generals of the paramilitary forces and commissioner of the Delhi Police were also present in the meeting.

Over 55,000 vacant posts in paramilitary forces, Rajnath Singh orders immediate recruitment

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Srinagar this morning to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;

He is also expected to take stock of the overall situation following recently held Municipal elections and the deteriorating ground situation in Kashmir. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He will also discuss with officials the ground situation in Kashmir following killings in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Sunday.

All educational institutions from Class 11th to college level shall also remain closed in Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, Baramulla and Sopore.

The home minister is expected to meet leaders of political parties in Jammu and Kashmir during his visit, the official said.

The state has been under the Governor’s rule after PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti had resigned as Chief Minister in June following the withdrawal of support by the BJP to her government.

Singh is also likely to meet representatives of some civil society groups, another official said.

Unrest in Jammu and Kashmir has been continuing with incidents of violence perpetrated by terror groups taking place regularly.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Srinagar this morning to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. He is also expected to take stock of the overall situation following recently held Municipal elections and the deteriorating ground situation in Kashmir.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Srinagar this morning to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. He is also expected to take stock of the overall situation following recently held Municipal elections and the deteriorating ground situation in Kashmir. He will also discuss with officials the ground situation in Kashmir following killings in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Sunday. All educational institutions from Class 11th to college level shall also remain closed in Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, Baramulla and Sopore. The home minister is expected to meet leaders of political parties in Jammu and Kashmir during his visit, the official said. The state has been under the Governor’s rule after PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti had resigned as Chief Minister in June following the withdrawal of support by the BJP to her government. Singh is also likely to meet representatives of some civil society groups, another official said. Unrest in Jammu and Kashmir has been continuing with incidents of violence perpetrated by terror groups taking place regularly.

Rajnath Singh arrives in Srinagar for a high-level security review meet

Home Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated Dussehra with BSF jawans and performed 'shastra puja' in the&nbsp;forward post along the highly sensitive Indo-Pak border in Bikaner, Rajasthan on Friday.

This was for the first time that a senior Union minister conducted the 'shastra puja' or worship of weapons on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami along India's border with Pakistan.

The home minister arrived at the frontier headquarters of the Border Security Force (BSF) in Bikaner, Rajasthan last evening.

'Shastra puja' is part of the Dussehra festival which is celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Ram over the demon king Ravana.

Addressing the BSF personnel, the home minister praised the multi-dimensional role of the BSF in guarding the Indo-Pak and Indo-Bangladesh borders, maintaining law and order in internal disturbances and tackling the Left Wing Extremism.

Referring to the regular firing from across the border in Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said Pakistan, despite being a neighbour, never exercised good neighbourly behaviour and instead sponsoring terrorism.

The home minister said that recently launched 'smart fence' pilot project, which entails deploying laser-activated fences and technology-enabled barriers to plug vulnerable gaps along borders, will help the border guarding forces in maintaining peace in forward areas.

The project was launched along Indo-Pak border in Jammu and Kashmir while it will be implemented along the Indo-Bangla border in Dhubri, Assam, next month, Singh said.

During the two-day visit, the home minister interacted with the family members of the BSF personnel and attended a feast with the jawans, another official said.

Singh also visited the family of a BSF jawan, who is currently posted in Jammu and Kashmir, and enquired about their wellbeing.

Later, the home minister reviewed the situation on the border and assessed the progress in various infrastructure projects.

The 3,323-km-long Indo-Pak border is considered to be highly sensitive.

Even though the border in Rajasthan is peaceful, the border guarding forces of the two countries often engaged in massive firing in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to loss of human lives and properties.

Last year, the home minister had celebrated Dussehra at Joshimath in Uttarakhand along the Sino-Indian border.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated Dussehra with BSF jawans and performed 'shastra puja' in the forward post along the highly sensitive Indo-Pak border in Bikaner, Rajasthan on Friday.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated Dussehra with BSF jawans and performed 'shastra puja' in the forward post along the highly sensitive Indo-Pak border in Bikaner, Rajasthan on Friday. This was for the first time that a senior Union minister conducted the 'shastra puja' or worship of weapons on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami along India's border with Pakistan. The home minister arrived at the frontier headquarters of the Border Security Force (BSF) in Bikaner, Rajasthan last evening. 'Shastra puja' is part of the Dussehra festival which is celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Ram over the demon king Ravana. Addressing the BSF personnel, the home minister praised the multi-dimensional role of the BSF in guarding the Indo-Pak and Indo-Bangladesh borders, maintaining law and order in internal disturbances and tackling the Left Wing Extremism. Referring to the regular firing from across the border in Jammu and Kashmir, Singh said Pakistan, despite being a neighbour, never exercised good neighbourly behaviour and instead sponsoring terrorism. The home minister said that recently launched 'smart fence' pilot project, which entails deploying laser-activated fences and technology-enabled barriers to plug vulnerable gaps along borders, will help the border guarding forces in maintaining peace in forward areas. The project was launched along Indo-Pak border in Jammu and Kashmir while it will be implemented along the Indo-Bangla border in Dhubri, Assam, next month, Singh said. During the two-day visit, the home minister interacted with the family members of the BSF personnel and attended a feast with the jawans, another official said. Singh also visited the family of a BSF jawan, who is currently posted in Jammu and Kashmir, and enquired about their wellbeing. Later, the home minister reviewed the situation on the border and assessed the progress in various infrastructure projects. The 3,323-km-long Indo-Pak border is considered to be highly sensitive. Even though the border in Rajasthan is peaceful, the border guarding forces of the two countries often engaged in massive firing in Jammu and Kashmir, leading to loss of human lives and properties. Last year, the home minister had celebrated Dussehra at Joshimath in Uttarakhand along the Sino-Indian border.

Rajnath Singh celebrates Dussehra with BSF jawans in Bikaner; performs 'shastra puja'

As the "#MeToo" movement rages on in India, the government is set to form a group of ministers to look into the lacunae in the existing law on sexual harassment, official sources said Wednesday.

They added that the group of ministers will be notified "soon".

Earlier, there were indications that the panel could be headed by a senior women cabinet minister but now, the sources said, it could be headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

The development comes days after Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi proposed the formation of a legal panel to look into the legal and institutional framework in place for handling complaints of sexual harassment and advise her ministry on how to strengthen it.

India's "#MeToo" movement, which started with actor Tanushree Dutta accusing another actor -- Nana Patekar -- of harassing her during the shooting of a Bollywood film in 2008, has escalated sharply with more and more women coming forward with their complaints against various personalities.

M J Akbar, who resigned as the Minister of State for External Affairs Wednesday, filmmakers Subhash Ghai, Sajid Khan, Rajat Kapoor and actor Alok Nath are among those who have been accused of sexual misconduct.&nbsp;

As the "#MeToo" movement rages on in India, the government is set to form a group of ministers to look into the lacunae in the existing law on sexual harassment, official sources said Wednesday.

As the "#MeToo" movement rages on in India, the government is set to form a group of ministers to look into the lacunae in the existing law on sexual harassment, official sources said Wednesday. They added that the group of ministers will be notified "soon". Earlier, there were indications that the panel could be headed by a senior women cabinet minister but now, the sources said, it could be headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The development comes days after Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi proposed the formation of a legal panel to look into the legal and institutional framework in place for handling complaints of sexual harassment and advise her ministry on how to strengthen it. India's "#MeToo" movement, which started with actor Tanushree Dutta accusing another actor -- Nana Patekar -- of harassing her during the shooting of a Bollywood film in 2008, has escalated sharply with more and more women coming forward with their complaints against various personalities. M J Akbar, who resigned as the Minister of State for External Affairs Wednesday, filmmakers Subhash Ghai, Sajid Khan, Rajat Kapoor and actor Alok Nath are among those who have been accused of sexual misconduct.

Government to form GoM to look into lacunae in law on sexual harassment 

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state.

Singh met Congress president Rahul Gandhi before joining the party in the presence of leaders, including Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, Avinash Pande and Randeep Surjewala.

The party announced the move at a press conference.

Congress leaders believe his joining the party will help bring in Rajput votes in the assembly polls.&nbsp;

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state.

Rajasthan BJP MLA Manvendra Singh, who is the son of former Union minister Jaswant Singh, joined the Congress on Wednesday ahead of assembly elections in the state. Singh met Congress president Rahul Gandhi before joining the party in the presence of leaders, including Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, Avinash Pande and Randeep Surjewala. The party announced the move at a press conference. Congress leaders believe his joining the party will help bring in Rajput votes in the assembly polls.

Ahead of Rajasthan election, BJP MLA Manvendra Singh joins Congress

Threats posed by "lone wolf" attackers and "do it yourself' terrorists are a major challenge for agencies tasked with ensuring security of the country, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today.

Addressing commandos of the elite counter-terror force National Security Guard on their 34th raising day in Gurgaon, Rajnath Singh said security forces have exhibited excellent coordination and ensured that there has been no terror attack similar to that of Mumbai in 2008.

He made a reference to recent attacks in New York and London where vehicles were used to run over and kill a number of people.

"The 'do it yourself' and 'lone wolf' kind of terror attacks are a major challenge for us and for security agencies,"&nbsp;Singh said at the NSG garrison in Manesar.

"We will have to prepare accordingly and keep changing and updating our tactics to counter these threats," he added.

"Terror is not limited to a country, but affects the entire world," Singh asserted. Social media has helped in propagating their ideology, he added.

Complimenting the NSG and other security forces and agencies of the country for ensuring that there has not been any major terror attack in India since 2008, he said they have achieved successes in thwarting terror or insurgency bids "except" in Jammu and Kashmir.

"We have now deployed one unit of the NSG in Jammu and Kashmir for operations,"&nbsp;Singh said.

The minister also asked state police forces to develop counter-terror capabilities of their forces as they are the "first responders" when an attack takes place.

The NSG was raised in 1984 as a federal contingency force. Apart from rendering the specialised tasks of counter-terror and counter-hijack operations, it also guards 13 high-risk VVIPs in the country, including the Union home minister. 
&nbsp;

Threats posed by "lone wolf" attackers and "do it yourself' terrorists are a major challenge for agencies tasked with ensuring security of the country, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today.

Threats posed by "lone wolf" attackers and "do it yourself' terrorists are a major challenge for agencies tasked with ensuring security of the country, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today. Addressing commandos of the elite counter-terror force National Security Guard on their 34th raising day in Gurgaon, Rajnath Singh said security forces have exhibited excellent coordination and ensured that there has been no terror attack similar to that of Mumbai in 2008. He made a reference to recent attacks in New York and London where vehicles were used to run over and kill a number of people. "The 'do it yourself' and 'lone wolf' kind of terror attacks are a major challenge for us and for security agencies," Singh said at the NSG garrison in Manesar. "We will have to prepare accordingly and keep changing and updating our tactics to counter these threats," he added. "Terror is not limited to a country, but affects the entire world," Singh asserted. Social media has helped in propagating their ideology, he added. Complimenting the NSG and other security forces and agencies of the country for ensuring that there has not been any major terror attack in India since 2008, he said they have achieved successes in thwarting terror or insurgency bids "except" in Jammu and Kashmir. "We have now deployed one unit of the NSG in Jammu and Kashmir for operations," Singh said. The minister also asked state police forces to develop counter-terror capabilities of their forces as they are the "first responders" when an attack takes place. The NSG was raised in 1984 as a federal contingency force. Apart from rendering the specialised tasks of counter-terror and counter-hijack operations, it also guards 13 high-risk VVIPs in the country, including the Union home minister.

'Lone wolf' terror attacks a major challenge for India: Rajnath Singh

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said the menace of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) will be wiped out from the country in about three years.

Addressing troops of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) on the occasion of their 26th-anniversary celebrations here, Singh said their action should be rapid and quick but never "reckless."

Singh, speaking at the CRPF camp here, said districts affected by Naxal violence in the country have come down to about 10-12 as compared to 126 some time back.

The day is not far, may be in a time period of 1-2 or 3 years, that the LWE will be eliminated from the country and this would happen due to your (CRPF) determination, courage and hard work and that of the state police forces, he said.

"I congratulate you on the kind of work you have done in the LWE theatre of the country," Singh said.

The minister said the force has killed 131 Maoists and militants this year while it has apprehended 1,278 of them and has effected 58 surrenders during the same time.

The home minister also asserted that Jammu and Kashmir, where the CRPF is deployed as the lead counter-militancy force, has been and will be an "inseparable" part of India.

Some youth there (J-K) have been misled into militancy, but this force has ensured security commendably, he said.

Talking about the specific role of the RAF, a special unit under the CRPF, during riots and protests, the home minister advised them to be prompt and rapid but never "reckless."

All the police forces are like civilised units and they should never do anything that will label them as "brutal."

One should know how to behave during crowd control and similar duties and should always know how much and when to use force, he said.

Singh's comments can be seen in the context of a recent incident in Uttar Pradesh's capital where a police jawan allegedly killed an unarmed MNC executive.

An RAF battalion has a strength of just over 1,000 personnel and it is equipped with gadgets and non-lethal weapons like pump action guns, tear smoke grenade launchers and others to enforce security and law and order in case of protests or riot-like situations.

The force is part of the Central Reserve Police Force, the country's largest paramilitary force or the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) with over 3 lakh personnel. It was raised and made fully operational in October, 1992. It has ten battalions (of about 10,000) based in various parts of the country in order to cut down response time to counter an incident of trouble.

The ten existing RAF battalions are based in Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Allahabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Aligarh, Coimbatore, Jamshedpur, Bhopal and Meerut.

Five of its new bases are in Jaipur, Varanasi, Mangalore, Hajipur(Bihar) and Nuh (Haryana).

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said the menace of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) will be wiped out from the country in about three years. Addressing troops of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) on the occasion of their 26th-anniversary celebrations here, Singh said their action should be rapid and quick but never "reckless.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Sunday said the menace of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) will be wiped out from the country in about three years. Addressing troops of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) on the occasion of their 26th-anniversary celebrations here, Singh said their action should be rapid and quick but never "reckless." Singh, speaking at the CRPF camp here, said districts affected by Naxal violence in the country have come down to about 10-12 as compared to 126 some time back. The day is not far, may be in a time period of 1-2 or 3 years, that the LWE will be eliminated from the country and this would happen due to your (CRPF) determination, courage and hard work and that of the state police forces, he said. "I congratulate you on the kind of work you have done in the LWE theatre of the country," Singh said. The minister said the force has killed 131 Maoists and militants this year while it has apprehended 1,278 of them and has effected 58 surrenders during the same time. The home minister also asserted that Jammu and Kashmir, where the CRPF is deployed as the lead counter-militancy force, has been and will be an "inseparable" part of India. Some youth there (J-K) have been misled into militancy, but this force has ensured security commendably, he said. Talking about the specific role of the RAF, a special unit under the CRPF, during riots and protests, the home minister advised them to be prompt and rapid but never "reckless." All the police forces are like civilised units and they should never do anything that will label them as "brutal." One should know how to behave during crowd control and similar duties and should always know how much and when to use force, he said. Singh's comments can be seen in the context of a recent incident in Uttar Pradesh's capital where a police jawan allegedly killed an unarmed MNC executive. An RAF battalion has a strength of just over 1,000 personnel and it is equipped with gadgets and non-lethal weapons like pump action guns, tear smoke grenade launchers and others to enforce security and law and order in case of protests or riot-like situations. The force is part of the Central Reserve Police Force, the country's largest paramilitary force or the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) with over 3 lakh personnel. It was raised and made fully operational in October, 1992. It has ten battalions (of about 10,000) based in various parts of the country in order to cut down response time to counter an incident of trouble. The ten existing RAF battalions are based in Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Allahabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Aligarh, Coimbatore, Jamshedpur, Bhopal and Meerut. Five of its new bases are in Jaipur, Varanasi, Mangalore, Hajipur(Bihar) and Nuh (Haryana).

Naxalism will be eliminated from India in 3 years: Rajnath Singh

The Centre made it clear on Friday that it has no plans to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Tripura, after a similar exercise was carried out in Assam to identify illegal immigrants.

In a statement, the Home Ministry said a delegation of the Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura (INPT), led by its president Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhawl, met Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday but no assurance had been given to the team regarding implementation of NRC in the state.

"The home minister met a delegation of INPT led by its president Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhawl on October 4. However, no assurance of any kind was given by the home minister regarding the implementation of NRC in Tripura.&nbsp; 
It is categorically asserted that no decision has been taken on the issue of NRC in Tripura," the statement said.

The ministry also said news reports, appearing after the meeting, about likely implementation of NRC in Tripura "are absolutely incorrect and mischievous".&nbsp;

The Centre made it clear on Friday that it has no plans to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Tripura, after a similar exercise was carried out in Assam to identify illegal immigrants.

The Centre made it clear on Friday that it has no plans to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Tripura, after a similar exercise was carried out in Assam to identify illegal immigrants. In a statement, the Home Ministry said a delegation of the Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura (INPT), led by its president Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhawl, met Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday but no assurance had been given to the team regarding implementation of NRC in the state. "The home minister met a delegation of INPT led by its president Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhawl on October 4. However, no assurance of any kind was given by the home minister regarding the implementation of NRC in Tripura. It is categorically asserted that no decision has been taken on the issue of NRC in Tripura," the statement said. The ministry also said news reports, appearing after the meeting, about likely implementation of NRC in Tripura "are absolutely incorrect and mischievous".

No plans to implement NRC in Tripura: Govt

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday accused the Opposition of misleading the people by demanding that the details of the Rafale deal be made public.

Addressing a rally in Haryana's Ambala district, Singh said all details regarding that Rafale fighter jet deal could not be made public in view of the security concerns.

This has happened not only in the current government's time, but also during the tenure of previous governments, he said.

Singh alleged that the Opposition leaders' demand to make details of the deal public was not practical and they were making efforts to come to power by spreading lies and misleading the people.

The Union minister said the Centre had strongly checked the Naxal movement and the security forces were successful in controlling their activities, he said.

Singh added that an integrated border security system was being implemented to secure and strengthen the borders of the country as it was not possible to secure the 22,000-km long land-and-water borders of the country with wires.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday accused the Opposition of misleading the people by demanding that the details of the Rafale deal be made public. Addressing a rally in Haryana's Ambala district, Singh said all details regarding that Rafale fighter jet deal could not be made public in view of the security concerns.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday accused the Opposition of misleading the people by demanding that the details of the Rafale deal be made public. Addressing a rally in Haryana's Ambala district, Singh said all details regarding that Rafale fighter jet deal could not be made public in view of the security concerns. This has happened not only in the current government's time, but also during the tenure of previous governments, he said. Singh alleged that the Opposition leaders' demand to make details of the deal public was not practical and they were making efforts to come to power by spreading lies and misleading the people. The Union minister said the Centre had strongly checked the Naxal movement and the security forces were successful in controlling their activities, he said. Singh added that an integrated border security system was being implemented to secure and strengthen the borders of the country as it was not possible to secure the 22,000-km long land-and-water borders of the country with wires.

Opposition misleading people on Rafale deal: Rajnath Singh

In another move to resume ties with India, <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/as-rajnath-singh-visits-jk-terrorists-attack-army-patrol-in-kupwara-twice-in-24-hours-142979">Pakistan said "uninterrupted dialogue"</a> was the only way forward for resolution of all disputes with India.

In a weekly briefing, Pakistan's foreign office spokesman<a href="http://wionews.com/videos/deal-with-terrorists-without-distinction-us-tells-pakistan-142923"> said Pakistan was in favour </a>of dialogue with India.

Echoing foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's feelings, India defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had told reporters on Monday that "talks and terror can't go together", in reference to cross-border terror attacks.

Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a &nbsp;2003 ceasefire agreement, however, Pakistan troops have been firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control(LoC) in the past week leading the government to rethink its stand on the ceasefire agreement.

Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K on a two-day visit to review the security situation in the state where he will also talk with people in the border areas who have faced the brunt of Pakistani fire from across the LoC.

Even as India's home minister arrived in the state, terrorists ambushed an Army patrol in Kupwara and repeated it again on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Pakistan High Commissioner has decided to host an Iftar party in Delhi in which several separatists, lawyers and journalists from the Valley have been invited, raising eyebrows in the government.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y4B6dOf905g" width="560"></iframe>

Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a 2003 ceasefire agreement

In another move to resume ties with India, Pakistan said "uninterrupted dialogue" was the only way forward for resolution of all disputes with India. In a weekly briefing, Pakistan's foreign office spokesman said Pakistan was in favour of dialogue with India. Echoing foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's feelings, India defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had told reporters on Monday that "talks and terror can't go together", in reference to cross-border terror attacks. Recently India and Pakistan DGMOs had decided to implement a 2003 ceasefire agreement, however, Pakistan troops have been firing on Indian posts along the Line of Control(LoC) in the past week leading the government to rethink its stand on the ceasefire agreement. Home minister Rajnath Singh is in J&K on a two-day visit to review the security situation in the state where he will also talk with people in the border areas who have faced the brunt of Pakistani fire from across the LoC. Even as India's home minister arrived in the state, terrorists ambushed an Army patrol in Kupwara and repeated it again on Thursday. Meanwhile, Pakistan High Commissioner has decided to host an Iftar party in Delhi in which several separatists, lawyers and journalists from the Valley have been invited, raising eyebrows in the government.

Uninterrupted dialogue with India only way to resolve all disputes: Pakistan

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/as-rajnath-singh-visits-jk-terrorists-attack-army-patrol-in-kupwara-twice-in-24-hours-142979">As Rajnath Singh visits J&K, terrorists attack Army patrol in Kupwara twice in 24 hours</a>

A day after home minister arrived in&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir(J&K)&nbsp;terrorists&nbsp;attacked an army patrol in Haril area of Kupwara district. On Thursday, terrorists had ambushed the Army's patrol party in the Keran sector in Kupwara. Two soldiers were injured in the attack.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-rajinikanths-kaala-releases-in-select-theaters-across-karnataka--142982">Rajinikanth's 'Kaala' releases in select </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-rajinikanths-kaala-releases-in-select-theaters-across-karnataka--142982">theaters</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-rajinikanths-kaala-releases-in-select-theaters-across-karnataka--142982"> across Karnataka</a>

Rajinikanth's Kaala did release in Karnataka on Thursday but only in select theatres and amid heavy security. Fear of vandalism overtook a high court order and most theaters preferred not to screen the film across the state.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/might-invite-kim-to-us-if-talks-go-well-trump-142969">Might invite Kim to </a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/might-invite-kim-to-us-if-talks-go-well-trump-142969">US</a><a href="http://wionews.com/world/might-invite-kim-to-us-if-talks-go-well-trump-142969"> if talks go well: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he may invite North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un to the White House if the Singapore summit goes well.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/india-must-improve-performance-of-public-sector-banks-imf-142991">India must improve </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/india-must-improve-performance-of-public-sector-banks-imf-142991">performance</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/india-must-improve-performance-of-public-sector-banks-imf-142991"> of public sector banks: IMF</a>

The International Monetary Fund said today that&nbsp;India should look at the performance&nbsp;of the public sector banks as it seeks to reform and grow.

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/japan-willing-to-talk-to-north-korea-and-normalise-ties-pm-shinzo-abe-142971">Japan willing to talk to North Korea and normalise ties: PM Shinzo Abe</a>

Japanese PM Shinzo Abe said today that Japan strongly for peace in the Korean Peninsula while asserting that his country was willing to talk to North Korea to normalise ties.

As Rajnath Singh visits J&K, terrorists attack Army patrol in Kupwara twice in 24 hours A day after home minister arrived in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) terrorists attacked an army patrol in Haril area of Kupwara district. On Thursday, terrorists had ambushed the Army's patrol party in the Keran sector in Kupwara. Two soldiers were injured in the attack. Rajinikanth's 'Kaala' releases in select theaters across Karnataka Rajinikanth's Kaala did release in Karnataka on Thursday but only in select theatres and amid heavy security. Fear of vandalism overtook a high court order and most theaters preferred not to screen the film across the state. Might invite Kim to US if talks go well: Trump US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he may invite North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un to the White House if the Singapore summit goes well. India must improve performance of public sector banks: IMF The International Monetary Fund said today that India should look at the performance of the public sector banks as it seeks to reform and grow. Japan willing to talk to North Korea and normalise ties: PM Shinzo Abe Japanese PM Shinzo Abe said today that Japan strongly for peace in the Korean Peninsula while asserting that his country was willing to talk to North Korea to normalise ties.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said two battalions will be assigned specifically for the areas falling between the range of 0-10 km from the border, news agency ANI reported.

He further announced that five Indian Reserve (IR) Battalions will be raised under which more than 5000 people will be selected and 60 per cent of the vacancies for these IR battalions will be reserved for the people living within 0-10 km of border areas, the report further said.

Talking to the media after meeting public delegations, Singh said, "Delegations have told us about their demands, along with the developments that can further be made in the areas."

Singh, along with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and Minister of State Prime Minister's Office, Jitendra Singh, met representatives of the 'Gurjar' community in Kupwara, where ceasefire violation from across the border and other terrorist activities has forced some locals to shift their base over the past few weeks.

They also met the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

After Kupwara, the delegation will proceed to J&K's winter capital, Jammu.

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MHA has revisited scheme of giving Rs 5 lakhs for persons killed during Cross Border Firing & Ceasefire Violations. Now this amount of Rs 5 Lakhs will be directly credited to the account of Next of Kin and all conditions relating to fixed deposit have been removed: Rajnath Singh <a href="https://t.co/f9hbFdEgWX">pic.twitter.com/f9hbFdEgWX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005053049151242240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Singh is on a two-day visit to the state to review the security situation along the Indo-Pak border.

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The MHA has sanctioned two new women battalions for J&K police. One battalion will be for Kashmir division and one battalion for Jammu division. This will provide direct employment to nearly 2000 women of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>: Home Minister Rajnath Singh in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jammu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jammu</a> <a href="https://t.co/QbfnIfT177">pic.twitter.com/QbfnIfT177</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1005052214388277248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While addressing a press conference on Thursday, he had stated that the Centre won't allow any obstacle to come in the way of its mission to ensure lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp

(With ANI inputs)

Singh, along with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and Minister of State Prime Minister's Office, Jitendra Singh, met representatives of the 'Gurjar' community in Kupwara

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said two battalions will be assigned specifically for the areas falling between the range of 0-10 km from the border, news agency ANI reported. He further announced that five Indian Reserve (IR) Battalions will be raised under which more than 5000 people will be selected and 60 per cent of the vacancies for these IR battalions will be reserved for the people living within 0-10 km of border areas, the report further said. Talking to the media after meeting public delegations, Singh said, "Delegations have told us about their demands, along with the developments that can further be made in the areas." Singh, along with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and Minister of State Prime Minister's Office, Jitendra Singh, met representatives of the 'Gurjar' community in Kupwara, where ceasefire violation from across the border and other terrorist activities has forced some locals to shift their base over the past few weeks. They also met the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Jammu and Kashmir Police. After Kupwara, the delegation will proceed to J&K's winter capital, Jammu. MHA has revisited scheme of giving Rs 5 lakhs for persons killed during Cross Border Firing & Ceasefire Violations. Now this amount of Rs 5 Lakhs will be directly credited to the account of Next of Kin and all conditions relating to fixed deposit have been removed: Rajnath Singh pic.twitter.com/f9hbFdEgWX — ANI (@ANI) June 8, 2018 × Singh is on a two-day visit to the state to review the security situation along the Indo-Pak border. The MHA has sanctioned two new women battalions for J&K police. One battalion will be for Kashmir division and one battalion for Jammu division. This will provide direct employment to nearly 2000 women of #JammuAndKashmir: Home Minister Rajnath Singh in #Jammu pic.twitter.com/QbfnIfT177 — ANI (@ANI) June 8, 2018 × While addressing a press conference on Thursday, he had stated that the Centre won't allow any obstacle to come in the way of its mission to ensure lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir. (With ANI inputs)

Jammu and Kashmir: Rajnath assigns 2 battalions for border areas

As home minister <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/ceasefire-review-rajnath-singh-to-visit-jk-again-to-meet-people-living-in-border-areas-142741">Rajnath Singh landed in Jammu</a> and Kashmir(J&K), terrorists attacked an army patrol in the Keran sector of Kupwara.

The terrorists ambushed the patrolling party. Two soldiers were critically injured in the attack.

Sources said the attack was carried out by Pakistan's border action team(BAT).

Meanwhile, Rajnath Singh reached Srinagar on Thursday morning to review the security situation in the state after Pakistan repeatedly opened fire along the Line of Control(LoC).

India's home minister will be meeting people in the border areas and will meet J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti during his two-day visit to the state.

 
&nbsp

Rajnath Singh reached Srinagar on Thursday morning to review the security situation in the state

As home minister Rajnath Singh landed in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), terrorists attacked an army patrol in the Keran sector of Kupwara. The terrorists ambushed the patrolling party. Two soldiers were critically injured in the attack. Sources said the attack was carried out by Pakistan's border action team(BAT). Meanwhile, Rajnath Singh reached Srinagar on Thursday morning to review the security situation in the state after Pakistan repeatedly opened fire along the Line of Control(LoC). India's home minister will be meeting people in the border areas and will meet J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti during his two-day visit to the state.

As Rajnath Singh lands in J&K, terrorists ambush Army patrol in Kupwara

Home Minister <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/after-cross-border-firing-rajnath-singh-to-visit-jk-to-review-security-142058">Rajnath Singh will be visiting</a> Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) just days after his previous visit as the government keeps a close eye on the security situation in the state.

The home minister will be accompanied by Union home secretary, joint secretary(J&K) and Minister of State(MoS) in Prime Minister's Office(PMO) Jitendra Singh.

The minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti and review security arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra.

Rajnath Singh will stay in J&K for two days as he reviews the situation in the state.

India's home minister said he was "looking forward to interact with the youth and people living in border areas" including other sections of the society.

Last week the home minister had visited J&K as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors.

Although India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed on the 2003 ceasefire agreement but there has been incessant firing along the Line of Control(LoC). The firing had led to the death of 2 BSF personnel.

Last week the home minister had visited J&K as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh will be visiting Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) just days after his previous visit as the government keeps a close eye on the security situation in the state. The home minister will be accompanied by Union home secretary, joint secretary(J&K) and Minister of State(MoS) in Prime Minister's Office(PMO) Jitendra Singh. The minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti and review security arrangements for the Amarnath Yatra. Rajnath Singh will stay in J&K for two days as he reviews the situation in the state. India's home minister said he was "looking forward to interact with the youth and people living in border areas" including other sections of the society. Last week the home minister had visited J&K as Pakistan troops opened fire in the Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors. Although India and Pakistan DGMOs had agreed on the 2003 ceasefire agreement but there has been incessant firing along the Line of Control(LoC). The firing had led to the death of 2 BSF personnel.

Ceasefire review: Rajnath Singh to visit J&K again to meet people living in border areas

The Centre had decided to withdraw cases against those "misled into stone pelting" as it was concerned about the future of Jammu and Kashmir's youth, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today.

Singh, who arrived at the state's summer capital today, is on a two-day visit to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

"We believe that children anywhere are the same. We understand that some youth were misled into stone pelting...

"Children can make mistakes... That is why we decided to withdraw the cases against those children who were involved in stone pelting," he said.

The Union Home Ministry late last year had ordered to withdraw cases against youths involved in stone pelting.

Singh appealed to the youth not to tread the path of destruction and said the Centre and the state government had initiated several schemes to help them secure their future.

"I want to appeal to the youth that they should take the path of development... They should not go on the path of destruction," he said at a sports function at the Sher-e-Kashmir Indoor Stadium here.

"There is extreme love in the heart of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Jammu and Kashmir.

"It is our responsibility to provide a secure future to the youth of the state and it can be done with the power of education and miracle of sports," Singh said.

Lauding the state government for carrying out works for improving the sports infrastructure, the Home Minister said funds will not be a problem for promoting sports in Jammu and Kashmir.

"Funds will be provided for promotion of water sports at Mansar and Pahalgam... Funds will be arranged for development of sports infrastructure," he said.

"With the help of the Jammu and Kashmir government, we will change the face and destiny of the state," Singh said

Singh felicitated several sportsperson from the state, including Parvez Rasool, Mehrajuddin, Rajinder Singh, Manzoor Dar and Tajjammul Islam.

"The state of Jammu and Kashmir has great talent and many more such sports persons can come out of the state if the conditions are right," he said.

Several roads leading to the stadium were sealed by security forces, leading to massive traffic jams in the south area here, officials said.

The traffic situation is expected to ease after the Home Minister moves to SKICC on the Dal Lake's banks where he will review the security situation later in the day, they said.&nbsp

Singh, who arrived at the state's summer capital today, is on a two-day visit to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Centre had decided to withdraw cases against those "misled into stone pelting" as it was concerned about the future of Jammu and Kashmir's youth, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh said today. Singh, who arrived at the state's summer capital today, is on a two-day visit to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir. "We believe that children anywhere are the same. We understand that some youth were misled into stone pelting... "Children can make mistakes... That is why we decided to withdraw the cases against those children who were involved in stone pelting," he said. The Union Home Ministry late last year had ordered to withdraw cases against youths involved in stone pelting. Singh appealed to the youth not to tread the path of destruction and said the Centre and the state government had initiated several schemes to help them secure their future. "I want to appeal to the youth that they should take the path of development... They should not go on the path of destruction," he said at a sports function at the Sher-e-Kashmir Indoor Stadium here. "There is extreme love in the heart of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Jammu and Kashmir. "It is our responsibility to provide a secure future to the youth of the state and it can be done with the power of education and miracle of sports," Singh said. Lauding the state government for carrying out works for improving the sports infrastructure, the Home Minister said funds will not be a problem for promoting sports in Jammu and Kashmir. "Funds will be provided for promotion of water sports at Mansar and Pahalgam... Funds will be arranged for development of sports infrastructure," he said. "With the help of the Jammu and Kashmir government, we will change the face and destiny of the state," Singh said Singh felicitated several sportsperson from the state, including Parvez Rasool, Mehrajuddin, Rajinder Singh, Manzoor Dar and Tajjammul Islam. "The state of Jammu and Kashmir has great talent and many more such sports persons can come out of the state if the conditions are right," he said. Several roads leading to the stadium were sealed by security forces, leading to massive traffic jams in the south area here, officials said. The traffic situation is expected to ease after the Home Minister moves to SKICC on the Dal Lake's banks where he will review the security situation later in the day, they said.

Centre concerned about future of J&K youth: Home Minister Rajnath Singh

Home Minister Rajnath Singh will visit <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/no-respite-in-cross-border-firing-will-be-constrained-to-revoke-ceasefire-agreement-mos-hansraj-ahir-142002">Jammu and Kashmir this week </a>to review the security situation after India and Pakistan Director General Of Military Operations(DGMOs) concluded a ceasefire agreement last week.

Tension on the border increased over the <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/ceasefire-dialogue-offer-opportunity-to-save-jk-from-bloodshed-mehbooba-141939">weekend after Pakistan troops</a> opened fire in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district.

India's home minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mahbooba Mufti on the security situation in the state and efforts to engage the youth in development projects.

Rajnath Singh is due to visit the state either on Wednesday or Thursday. Last week India and Pakistan DGMs troops had concluded a 2003 ceasefire agreement according to the two sides decided not to engage in cross-border firing.

However, on Sunday Pakistan troops opened fire on Indian troops along the LoC leading to the death of 2 BSF personnel.&nbsp

J&K power minister Sunil Sharma lashed out at Pakistan declaring that time the central government is very "determined to send a message to Pakistan". 
&nbsp 
"Though it is the domain of the centre, defence ministry and defence strategists, we understand that we are not going to tolerate the killings anymore. We are making our efforts to normalise the situation but they(Pakistan) are showing desperation and hurling grenades and firing on the borders," the state power minister said.

Following Sunil Sharma's comment, Minister of State for Home Affairs Hansraj Ahir said the Centre had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, since there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan, the government "may be constrained to revoke" the agreement.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q7On5b_YGFE" width="560"></iframe>

On Sunday Pakistan troops opened fire on Indian troops along the LoC leading to the death of 2 BSF personnel.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Jammu and Kashmir this week to review the security situation after India and Pakistan Director General Of Military Operations(DGMOs) concluded a ceasefire agreement last week. Tension on the border increased over the weekend after Pakistan troops opened fire in Akhnoor, Kanachak and Khour sectors of Jammu district. India's home minister will also meet J&K chief minister Mahbooba Mufti on the security situation in the state and efforts to engage the youth in development projects. Rajnath Singh is due to visit the state either on Wednesday or Thursday. Last week India and Pakistan DGMs troops had concluded a 2003 ceasefire agreement according to the two sides decided not to engage in cross-border firing. However, on Sunday Pakistan troops opened fire on Indian troops along the LoC leading to the death of 2 BSF personnel. J&K power minister Sunil Sharma lashed out at Pakistan declaring that time the central government is very "determined to send a message to Pakistan". "Though it is the domain of the centre, defence ministry and defence strategists, we understand that we are not going to tolerate the killings anymore. We are making our efforts to normalise the situation but they(Pakistan) are showing desperation and hurling grenades and firing on the borders," the state power minister said. Following Sunil Sharma's comment, Minister of State for Home Affairs Hansraj Ahir said the Centre had decided to suspend operations in view of Ramzan. However, since there is no respite in cross-border terrorism and ceasefire violations on the part of Pakistan, the government "may be constrained to revoke" the agreement.

After cross-border firing, Rajnath Singh to visit J&K to review security

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said a total of 619 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir had been killed in gun battles with security forces in last four years.

Asked about the continuing violence during the Ramzan "ceasefire", Singh said the Centre had only announced a suspension of operations.

"If there is a terrorist attack, the hands of the jawans are not tied," he added.

On his recent comment on the possibility of talks with Pakistan or the separatists for peace in Kashmir, he said the country has no aversion to dialogue.

Singh, who is also an MP from Lucknow, was addressing reporters on the completion of four years of the NDA government.

He said the Centre was trying to bring petroleum prices under control, saying the hikes were the result of the increase in international crude oil rates and the rise in the value of the dollar.

"I accept that problems have emerged because of the rise in dollar and crude oil prices," he said at a joint press conference with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

The home minister said while 471 terrorists were killed in 2010-13, 619 have been killed in 2014-17.

He said the number of districts affected by Naxalism has dropped from 76 in 2013 to 58 in 2018.

"Our crime and criminal tracking network and systems (CCTNS) is winning praise from all over the world," he said.

Lauding the para-military forces, he said,"When a jawan attained martyrdom, Rs 50 lakh to Rs 55 lakh used to be given to his family but now we have decided that the amount should not be less than Rs 1 crore."

Asked about economic offenders leaving the country, the minister said, "I want to ask the Congress people if no one had fled during their government."

He said there was special thrust on infrastructure development under the Narendra Modi government, and by 2040 four to five trillion dollar investment was likely in this field alone.&nbsp;

"It is a fact that during the last four years of the UPA government, on an average, 12 km of highways were constructed on a daily basis, which went up to 27 km in the four years of the present government," he said.&nbsp;

He said road connectivity was a gift from former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and the effort has been taken forward by Modi.&nbsp;

Singh stressed that none of the ministers in the Modi government faced any corruption charge.

He praised the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh, saying there has been fear among criminal elements since he came to power.

(With inputs from PTI)

Addressing media persons here, the senior BJP leader said the number of terrorists killed in the previous UPA-II government was 471.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday said a total of 619 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir had been killed in gun battles with security forces in last four years. Asked about the continuing violence during the Ramzan "ceasefire", Singh said the Centre had only announced a suspension of operations. "If there is a terrorist attack, the hands of the jawans are not tied," he added. On his recent comment on the possibility of talks with Pakistan or the separatists for peace in Kashmir, he said the country has no aversion to dialogue. Singh, who is also an MP from Lucknow, was addressing reporters on the completion of four years of the NDA government. He said the Centre was trying to bring petroleum prices under control, saying the hikes were the result of the increase in international crude oil rates and the rise in the value of the dollar. "I accept that problems have emerged because of the rise in dollar and crude oil prices," he said at a joint press conference with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The home minister said while 471 terrorists were killed in 2010-13, 619 have been killed in 2014-17. He said the number of districts affected by Naxalism has dropped from 76 in 2013 to 58 in 2018. "Our crime and criminal tracking network and systems (CCTNS) is winning praise from all over the world," he said. Lauding the para-military forces, he said,"When a jawan attained martyrdom, Rs 50 lakh to Rs 55 lakh used to be given to his family but now we have decided that the amount should not be less than Rs 1 crore." Asked about economic offenders leaving the country, the minister said, "I want to ask the Congress people if no one had fled during their government." He said there was special thrust on infrastructure development under the Narendra Modi government, and by 2040 four to five trillion dollar investment was likely in this field alone. "It is a fact that during the last four years of the UPA government, on an average, 12 km of highways were constructed on a daily basis, which went up to 27 km in the four years of the present government," he said. He said road connectivity was a gift from former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and the effort has been taken forward by Modi. Singh stressed that none of the ministers in the Modi government faced any corruption charge. He praised the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh, saying there has been fear among criminal elements since he came to power. (With inputs from PTI)

619 militants killed in four years in J&K: Rajnath Singh

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the government was ready to hold dialogue with the Hurriyat Conference leadership if the separatists come forward for talks.&nbsp

Mr Singh, however, made it clear that so far there has been no indication from the Hurriyat that it was ready for peace talks with the government.

"I have already said that we are ready for dialogue with all stakeholders in Kashmir. If Hurriyat comes forward for talks, we don't mind talking to them. Whoever wants to talk with us, we are ready for talks," he told a TV channel in New Delhi.

On whether there was any indication from the separatists leadership for peace dialogue with the government, Mr Singh said, "There has been no indication so far."

The government's special representative Dineshwar Sharma is holding talks with a cross-section of people in Jammu and Kashmir, the Home Minister said.

Mr Singh's comments came days after the government had announced suspension of operations against terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan that began on May 17.

Past attempts to initiate dialogue with the Hurriyat had failed after the separatists demanded a declaration of Kashmir as "disputed" and involvement of Pakistan in the dialogue.

Rajnath Singh, however, made it clear that so far there has been no indication from the Hurriyat that it was ready for peace talks with the government.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the government was ready to hold dialogue with the Hurriyat Conference leadership if the separatists come forward for talks. Mr Singh, however, made it clear that so far there has been no indication from the Hurriyat that it was ready for peace talks with the government. "I have already said that we are ready for dialogue with all stakeholders in Kashmir. If Hurriyat comes forward for talks, we don't mind talking to them. Whoever wants to talk with us, we are ready for talks," he told a TV channel in New Delhi. On whether there was any indication from the separatists leadership for peace dialogue with the government, Mr Singh said, "There has been no indication so far." The government's special representative Dineshwar Sharma is holding talks with a cross-section of people in Jammu and Kashmir, the Home Minister said. Mr Singh's comments came days after the government had announced suspension of operations against terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan that began on May 17. Past attempts to initiate dialogue with the Hurriyat had failed after the separatists demanded a declaration of Kashmir as "disputed" and involvement of Pakistan in the dialogue.

Government ready for talks if Hurriyat agrees, says Rajnath Singh

Nearly a week <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-announces-ceasefire-during-ramzan-in-jk-137400">after announcing </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-announces-ceasefire-during-ramzan-in-jk-137400">suspension</a> of operation by security forces&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), sources in the government say they may consider extending the suspension even after Ramzan.

On May 16, the Centre had asked security forces in J&K to suspend operation for a month due to the holy month of Ramzan after CM Mehbooba Mufti and other political parties pushed for a "suspended peace".

Home minister Rajnath Singh had later said the Centre is suspending operation and informed J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti who welcomed the move.

According to government sources, the implementation of suspension of operation is getting a "good response" from the people in the Valley.

“The government wants that during the ensuing month of Ramzan, no section of society and in particular, the Muslim community should face any difficulty," the government had said while declaring a "temporary ceasefire".

According to government sources, the implementation of suspension of operation is getting a "good response"

Nearly a week after announcing suspension of operation by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), sources in the government say they may consider extending the suspension even after Ramzan. On May 16, the Centre had asked security forces in J&K to suspend operation for a month due to the holy month of Ramzan after CM Mehbooba Mufti and other political parties pushed for a "suspended peace". Home minister Rajnath Singh had later said the Centre is suspending operation and informed J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti who welcomed the move. According to government sources, the implementation of suspension of operation is getting a "good response" from the people in the Valley. “The government wants that during the ensuing month of Ramzan, no section of society and in particular, the Muslim community should face any difficulty," the government had said while declaring a "temporary ceasefire".

After 'good response', government may extend suspension of operation in J&K beyond Ramzan

Home minister Rajnath <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-will-have-to-give-up-someday-due-to-international-pressure-rajnath-singh-131826">Singh speaking at the Border </a>Security Forces function declared that despite India wanting peace with its neigbour,&nbsp;a particular country, meaning Pakistan, was not "mending its ways."

As the minister was delivering&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-jammu-and-kashmir-138496">his speech, Pakistan opened fire along </a>the Line of Control(LoC) in Arnia and RS Pura today injuring seven people including two BSF soldiers. An infant reportedly died during the firing.

Without naming Pakistan outright, the home minister said: "This (Pakistan's acts) can be a subject of research and these activities of the neighbour are hard to understand."

"If you (the BSF) are fired upon, then you have to decide what is the best course of reaction or action. You have done this with remarkable responsibility in the past," Rajnath said, adding that although the government had directed the forces not to fire first but he told the BSF that &nbsp;"no one will ask them how they chose to retaliate".

The home minister said the government intended to seal the Pakistan and Bangladesh with 'smart fences'. He added that&nbsp;work was in progress to seal the border.

"In few months, the work should get completed," Rajnath Singh added.

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The home minister said the government intended to seal the Pakistan and Bangladesh with 'smart fences'.

Home minister Rajnath Singh speaking at the Border Security Forces function declared that despite India wanting peace with its neigbour, a particular country, meaning Pakistan, was not "mending its ways." As the minister was delivering his speech, Pakistan opened fire along the Line of Control(LoC) in Arnia and RS Pura today injuring seven people including two BSF soldiers. An infant reportedly died during the firing. Without naming Pakistan outright, the home minister said: "This (Pakistan's acts) can be a subject of research and these activities of the neighbour are hard to understand." "If you (the BSF) are fired upon, then you have to decide what is the best course of reaction or action. You have done this with remarkable responsibility in the past," Rajnath said, adding that although the government had directed the forces not to fire first but he told the BSF that "no one will ask them how they chose to retaliate". The home minister said the government intended to seal the Pakistan and Bangladesh with 'smart fences'. He added that work was in progress to seal the border. "In few months, the work should get completed," Rajnath Singh added.

We won't fire the first bullet, but BSF free to retaliate if Pakistan opens fire: Rajnath Singh

After the conditional <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/1-civilian-dies-3-soldiers-injured-in-jk-during-stone-pelting-134847">ceasefire announcement on May 16th</a>, only five incidents of stone-pelting was reported in Jammu and Kashmir, the J&K government informed the home ministry today.

The home ministry <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/cm-mehbooba-mufti-meets-family-of-tourist-killed-in-stone-pelting--135449">had declared last Wednesday</a> that security forces won't be launching operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan.

Rajnath Singh had said the decision was taken "to help the peace loving Muslims observe Ramzan in a peaceful environment."

J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti&nbsp;who first pushed for the move, had welcomed the government's initiative of "creating a peaceful and amicable environment for a sustainable dialogue".

The government said between April 1 to April 5th, 92 incidents of stone-pelting was reported in the Valley, the J&K government said.

The Mehbooba Mufti&nbsp;government told the Centre that no incident of stone pelting incidents reported during PM Modi's visit to Kashmir on Saturday.

The Home ministry had declared last Wednesday that security forces won't be launching operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan.

After the conditional ceasefire announcement on May 16th, only five incidents of stone-pelting was reported in Jammu and Kashmir, the J&K government informed the home ministry today. The home ministry had declared last Wednesday that security forces won't be launching operations in J&K during the holy month of Ramzan. Rajnath Singh had said the decision was taken "to help the peace loving Muslims observe Ramzan in a peaceful environment." J&K chief minister Mehbooba Mufti who first pushed for the move, had welcomed the government's initiative of "creating a peaceful and amicable environment for a sustainable dialogue". The government said between April 1 to April 5th, 92 incidents of stone-pelting was reported in the Valley, the J&K government said. The Mehbooba Mufti government told the Centre that no incident of stone pelting incidents reported during PM Modi's visit to Kashmir on Saturday.

Stone pelting incidents down, no pelting during PM's visit: J&K government to Centre

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed regret over Kushinagar accident where at least 13 children were killed. "I am extremely saddened on hearing about the death of school students in a collision between a school van and a train in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar. UP government and the railway department will take appropriate action," PM Modi stated while addressing BJP candidates for the upcoming Karnataka assembly poll this morning.&nbsp;

According to reports, 13 children were killed and eight others were reported injured when a train rammed into a school vehicle at an unmanned railway crossing. The incident took place at Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar area, around 50 kilometres from Gorakhpur.&nbsp;

The train was bound for Siwan from Gorakhpur. The school van is reported to have been carrying at least 25 people.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced Rs 2 lakh as ex-gratia for the families of the victims. CM Adityanath has also directed the Gorakhpur commissioner to conduct an inquiry into the accident.

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कुशीनगर जिले में हुए दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण ट्रेन दुर्घटना में स्कूली बच्चों की मृत्यु पर गहरा दुःख पंहुचा। ईश्वर से दिवंगत आत्मा की शांति एवं परिजनों को संबल देने की प्रार्थना करता हूँ। दुर्घटना से प्रभावित लोगों के समुचित इलाज की व्यवस्था कराने व हर सम्भव मदद करने के निर्देश दिए हैं।
— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath/status/989338134990106625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal also announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the kin of the victim.

"I received the unfortunate news of the death of school children. I have asked senior officials to conduct a probe into the incident. Railways will give a compensation of Rs 2 lakh to the kin of the dead over and above the aid announced by the Uttar Pradesh government," Goyal tweeted.

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कुशीनगर में हुए हादसे में स्कूली बच्चों की मृत्यु का दुःखद समाचार मिला, मैंने सीनियर अधिकारियों द्वारा हादसे की इन्क्वायरी के निर्देश दिए हैं, मृतको के परिवार जनों को रेलवे की ओर से दो लाख रुपये की सहायता दी जायेगी जो उप्र सरकार द्वारा दी जा रही दो लाख की राशि के अतिरिक्त होगी।
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/989350565455872000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh expressed sadness over Kushinagar accident.&nbsp;

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उत्तर प्रदेश के कुशीनगर जिले में हुई दुर्घटना में कई बच्चों की मृत्यु के समाचार से मुझे गहरा दुःख पहुँचा है. मैं मृतक बच्चों के परिवारों को अपनी शोक संवेदना प्रेषित करता हूँ. हादसे की जाँच के आदेश रेल मंत्रालय द्वारा दे दिए गए हैं.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/989359067264094208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"The death of several children in the accident in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar district has caused me to grieve deeply. I convey my grieving condolences to the families of the deceased children. Orders for investigation of the incident have been given by the Ministry of Railways," read his tweet.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced Rs 2 lakh as ex-gratia for the families of the victims

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed regret over Kushinagar accident where at least 13 children were killed. "I am extremely saddened on hearing about the death of school students in a collision between a school van and a train in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar. UP government and the railway department will take appropriate action," PM Modi stated while addressing BJP candidates for the upcoming Karnataka assembly poll this morning. According to reports, 13 children were killed and eight others were reported injured when a train rammed into a school vehicle at an unmanned railway crossing. The incident took place at Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar area, around 50 kilometres from Gorakhpur. The train was bound for Siwan from Gorakhpur. The school van is reported to have been carrying at least 25 people. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced Rs 2 lakh as ex-gratia for the families of the victims. CM Adityanath has also directed the Gorakhpur commissioner to conduct an inquiry into the accident. कुशीनगर जिले में हुए दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण ट्रेन दुर्घटना में स्कूली बच्चों की मृत्यु पर गहरा दुःख पंहुचा। ईश्वर से दिवंगत आत्मा की शांति एवं परिजनों को संबल देने की प्रार्थना करता हूँ। दुर्घटना से प्रभावित लोगों के समुचित इलाज की व्यवस्था कराने व हर सम्भव मदद करने के निर्देश दिए हैं। — Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) April 26, 2018 × Meanwhile, Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal also announced a compensation of Rs 2 lakh each for the kin of the victim. "I received the unfortunate news of the death of school children. I have asked senior officials to conduct a probe into the incident. Railways will give a compensation of Rs 2 lakh to the kin of the dead over and above the aid announced by the Uttar Pradesh government," Goyal tweeted. कुशीनगर में हुए हादसे में स्कूली बच्चों की मृत्यु का दुःखद समाचार मिला, मैंने सीनियर अधिकारियों द्वारा हादसे की इन्क्वायरी के निर्देश दिए हैं, मृतको के परिवार जनों को रेलवे की ओर से दो लाख रुपये की सहायता दी जायेगी जो उप्र सरकार द्वारा दी जा रही दो लाख की राशि के अतिरिक्त होगी। — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) April 26, 2018 × Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh expressed sadness over Kushinagar accident. उत्तर प्रदेश के कुशीनगर जिले में हुई दुर्घटना में कई बच्चों की मृत्यु के समाचार से मुझे गहरा दुःख पहुँचा है. मैं मृतक बच्चों के परिवारों को अपनी शोक संवेदना प्रेषित करता हूँ. हादसे की जाँच के आदेश रेल मंत्रालय द्वारा दे दिए गए हैं. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) April 26, 2018 × "The death of several children in the accident in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar district has caused me to grieve deeply. I convey my grieving condolences to the families of the deceased children. Orders for investigation of the incident have been given by the Ministry of Railways," read his tweet.

Kushinagar accident: PM Modi 'extremely saddened', Rajnath Singh, Yogi Adityanath offer condolences

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today asserted that Naxalism will be "wiped out" from the country as he lauded the efforts of the Nitish Kumar government in tackling the menace in Bihar.

Addressing an event organised by the state party unit on the eve of Babu Veer Kuer Singh's 160th Viyotsav Diwas in Patna, he said the number of incidents related to the rebels has come down since 2013.&nbsp 
Also, the number of deaths due to Naxal attacks has come down to one third, he said.&nbsp

"Naxalite's confidence is shattered...Naxalism will be wiped out from the country," Singh said at the programme attended by a galaxy of BJP leaders and Union ministers.

"These Naxalites thrive at the cost of poor people...I would like to tell the poor of the country as well as those of Bihar that the Naxal leaders want them to remain poor, whereas their own children study in prominent colleges and universities, and some of them even study abroad. The Naxalite leaders have become crorepatis," he said.

Thirteen Naxals were on Sunday gunned down in an encounter with security forces at Etapalli's Boriya forest area in Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra.

A huge cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered and the search operation is still on.

The home minister asked the people to be on guard against the Naxalites' designs to win their sympathies.

Earlier, addressing a function to inaugurate the ITBP's 6th battalion's buildings at Saran, the headquarter town of Chapra district, the Union minister lauded the efforts of the Nitish Kumar government in tackling Naxalism.

"I would like to mention the situation of Naxalism in Bihar. The number of Naxal incidents has come down to less than half here since 2013 and the deaths to one-third," Singh said.

"I would like to thank CM Nitish Kumar, deputy CM Sushil Modi, the police and para military forces for this (achievement)," he said.&nbsp 
The senior BJP leader also appreciated the Bihar government for posting a resounding 10 per cent plus growth rate.

"Bihar's growth rate has increased tremendously during the NDA government. The state has clocked a growth rate of 10.3 per cent for the first time when the national growth stands at 7.3 per cent. Both Nitish Kumar and Sushil Modi deserve praise for this," he said.&nbsp

Singh termed as "historic" the enforcement of complete prohibition in the state and said the decision had been taken for the better future of the state's people.

"As a home minister of the country, I can say that the crime rate has gone down in Bihar after the enforcement of prohibition," he said, adding that even Prime Minister Narendra Modi had appreciated the same during the recent centenary celebrations of Champaran satyagraha.&nbsp&nbsp &nbsp

The Bihar chief minister, deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi and BJP MPs Janardan Singh Sigriwal and Rajiv Pratap Rudy were among those present at the programme.

(With inputs from PTI)

Addressing an event organised by the state party unit on the eve of Babu Veer Kuer Singh's 160th Viyotsav Diwas in Patna, he said the number of incidents related to the rebels has come down since 2013

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today asserted that Naxalism will be "wiped out" from the country as he lauded the efforts of the Nitish Kumar government in tackling the menace in Bihar. Addressing an event organised by the state party unit on the eve of Babu Veer Kuer Singh's 160th Viyotsav Diwas in Patna, he said the number of incidents related to the rebels has come down since 2013. Also, the number of deaths due to Naxal attacks has come down to one third, he said. "Naxalite's confidence is shattered...Naxalism will be wiped out from the country," Singh said at the programme attended by a galaxy of BJP leaders and Union ministers. "These Naxalites thrive at the cost of poor people...I would like to tell the poor of the country as well as those of Bihar that the Naxal leaders want them to remain poor, whereas their own children study in prominent colleges and universities, and some of them even study abroad. The Naxalite leaders have become crorepatis," he said. Thirteen Naxals were on Sunday gunned down in an encounter with security forces at Etapalli's Boriya forest area in Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra. A huge cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered and the search operation is still on. The home minister asked the people to be on guard against the Naxalites' designs to win their sympathies. Earlier, addressing a function to inaugurate the ITBP's 6th battalion's buildings at Saran, the headquarter town of Chapra district, the Union minister lauded the efforts of the Nitish Kumar government in tackling Naxalism. "I would like to mention the situation of Naxalism in Bihar. The number of Naxal incidents has come down to less than half here since 2013 and the deaths to one-third," Singh said. "I would like to thank CM Nitish Kumar, deputy CM Sushil Modi, the police and para military forces for this (achievement)," he said. The senior BJP leader also appreciated the Bihar government for posting a resounding 10 per cent plus growth rate. "Bihar's growth rate has increased tremendously during the NDA government. The state has clocked a growth rate of 10.3 per cent for the first time when the national growth stands at 7.3 per cent. Both Nitish Kumar and Sushil Modi deserve praise for this," he said. Singh termed as "historic" the enforcement of complete prohibition in the state and said the decision had been taken for the better future of the state's people. "As a home minister of the country, I can say that the crime rate has gone down in Bihar after the enforcement of prohibition," he said, adding that even Prime Minister Narendra Modi had appreciated the same during the recent centenary celebrations of Champaran satyagraha. The Bihar chief minister, deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi and BJP MPs Janardan Singh Sigriwal and Rajiv Pratap Rudy were among those present at the programme. (With inputs from PTI)

Naxalism will be wiped out from the country: Rajnath Singh

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday attacked Pakistan&nbsp;for its consistent terror&nbsp;attacks on India.

Referring to Pakistan he said, "one of India's neighbours does not listen to India".&nbsp;&nbsp;

He said that the neighbouring country was always conspiring to break India with the help of terrorism.

He also maintained that&nbsp;someday Pakistan will have to give up to the global pressure.

He said " We always want to maintain good relations with our neighbouring countries. We consider all our neighbours our relatives. However, one of them doesn't listen. But they will have to listen some day.&nbsp; All international forces are putting pressure on them."

He also commended the Indian forces for keeping the terrorists out of the Indian territory.&nbsp;

Rajnath Singh was addressing at the Dadar Nagar Haveli where he had gone to inaugurate a number of development projects.

Singh also assured that his government was planning to bring in fugitive economic offenders bill before the Parliament to seize the properties of the offenders.

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Opposition levels allegations that some Nirav & Choksi fled abroad. We will present a fugitive economic offenders bill before Parliament. Earlier offenders used to flee abroad&their properties weren't seized. Now their properties will be seized under the bill:Rajnath Singh in Diu <a href="https://t.co/JcCd9V7kLC">pic.twitter.com/JcCd9V7kLC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/987572867259944961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Singh also assured that his government was planning to bring in fugitive economic offenders bill before the Parliament to seize the properties of the offenders

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday attacked Pakistan for its consistent terror attacks on India. Referring to Pakistan he said, "one of India's neighbours does not listen to India". He said that the neighbouring country was always conspiring to break India with the help of terrorism. He also maintained that someday Pakistan will have to give up to the global pressure. He said " We always want to maintain good relations with our neighbouring countries. We consider all our neighbours our relatives. However, one of them doesn't listen. But they will have to listen some day. All international forces are putting pressure on them." He also commended the Indian forces for keeping the terrorists out of the Indian territory. Rajnath Singh was addressing at the Dadar Nagar Haveli where he had gone to inaugurate a number of development projects. Singh also assured that his government was planning to bring in fugitive economic offenders bill before the Parliament to seize the properties of the offenders. Opposition levels allegations that some Nirav & Choksi fled abroad. We will present a fugitive economic offenders bill before Parliament. Earlier offenders used to flee abroad&their properties weren't seized. Now their properties will be seized under the bill:Rajnath Singh in Diu pic.twitter.com/JcCd9V7kLC — ANI (@ANI) April 21, 2018 ×

Pakistan will have to give up someday due to international pressure: Rajnath Singh

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday as began the second day of his three-day state visit in India.

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Nepal Prime Minister KP Oli receives ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/ETOVfqOiSK">pic.twitter.com/ETOVfqOiSK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/982463015722389504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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President Ram Nath Kovind and KP Oli will also hold a meeting to discuss the range of bilateral issues of India and Nepal during the day.

After the reception, KP Oli spoke to media and said "friendship is most important & there is no comparison with friendship. Any treaty any agreement, everything starts from friendship. With our neighbours, particularly with India, we first expect friendship".

KP Oli will also make a visit to Rajghat to lay a wreath at Mahatma Gandhi's samadhi.

After holding a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to discuss foreign policy, Oli will also hold a discussion with delegation-level officers of India and Hyderabad House.

Some development projects are also expected to be inaugurated today at the house.

Following the meet and inauguration, Oli is also expected to meet Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Union Home Minister Rajanth Singh in the evening.

&nbsp;Nepal Prime Minister arrived in Inda. He was received by Rajnath Singh and MoS Finance SP Shukla.

Oli also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held a delegation level talks on Friday evening.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday as began the second day of his three-day state visit in India

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday as began the second day of his three-day state visit in India. Nepal Prime Minister KP Oli receives ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan in #Delhi. pic.twitter.com/ETOVfqOiSK — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2018 × President Ram Nath Kovind and KP Oli will also hold a meeting to discuss the range of bilateral issues of India and Nepal during the day. After the reception, KP Oli spoke to media and said "friendship is most important & there is no comparison with friendship. Any treaty any agreement, everything starts from friendship. With our neighbours, particularly with India, we first expect friendship". KP Oli will also make a visit to Rajghat to lay a wreath at Mahatma Gandhi's samadhi. After holding a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to discuss foreign policy, Oli will also hold a discussion with delegation-level officers of India and Hyderabad House. Some development projects are also expected to be inaugurated today at the house. Following the meet and inauguration, Oli is also expected to meet Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Union Home Minister Rajanth Singh in the evening. Nepal Prime Minister arrived in Inda. He was received by Rajnath Singh and MoS Finance SP Shukla. Oli also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held a delegation level talks on Friday evening.

Nepal PM Oli meets President Kovind, will discuss India-Nepal issues

Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke on Monday's Dalit protests and violence across the country in Parliament today and appealed to all citizens to maintain peace.

Rajnath Singh clarified that the government had done "nothing to dilute the SC/ST Act", in fact, it was&nbsp;strengthening it he said.

"Through the House, I want to assure the people that there has been no dilution whatsoever by my government, rather after coming to power and examining the SC/ST prevention Atrocities Act, we have taken a decision to strengthen it," he said. 
 
The home minister said that the government had filed a&nbsp;review petition on April 2, within six days of the SC/ST order.

Making a suo motu statement in the Lok Sabha during Zero Hour on the large-scale violence during yesterday's Bharat Bandh, the home minister said eight people were killed -- six in Madhya Pradesh and one each in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, during the bandh which also witnessed clashes between the police and the protesters.

There were large-scale protests in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan over the alleged dilution of the SC/ST Act by the government. At least 10 people had died in the violence on Monday.

Rajnath Singh also urged all parties in the Lok Sabha to maintain peace in the aftermath of violence over the Supreme Court order on the SC/ST Act.

As the home minister was speaking, MPs continued to protest over the Cauvery issue leading the Lok Sabha Speaker to adjourn the House till Wednesday.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke on Monday's Dalit protests and violence across the country in Parliament and appealed to all citizens to maintain peace

Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke on Monday's Dalit protests and violence across the country in Parliament today and appealed to all citizens to maintain peace. Rajnath Singh clarified that the government had done "nothing to dilute the SC/ST Act", in fact, it was strengthening it he said. "Through the House, I want to assure the people that there has been no dilution whatsoever by my government, rather after coming to power and examining the SC/ST prevention Atrocities Act, we have taken a decision to strengthen it," he said. The home minister said that the government had filed a review petition on April 2, within six days of the SC/ST order. Making a suo motu statement in the Lok Sabha during Zero Hour on the large-scale violence during yesterday's Bharat Bandh, the home minister said eight people were killed -- six in Madhya Pradesh and one each in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, during the bandh which also witnessed clashes between the police and the protesters. There were large-scale protests in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan over the alleged dilution of the SC/ST Act by the government. At least 10 people had died in the violence on Monday. Rajnath Singh also urged all parties in the Lok Sabha to maintain peace in the aftermath of violence over the Supreme Court order on the SC/ST Act. As the home minister was speaking, MPs continued to protest over the Cauvery issue leading the Lok Sabha Speaker to adjourn the House till Wednesday.

Done nothing to dilute SC/ST Act: Rajnath Singh on Dalit protests

Addressing&nbsp;the Holi Milan Samaroh in Lucknow on Saturday&nbsp;Home Minister Rajnath Singh asked the opposition about who sanctioned loans to fugitives Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and others.&nbsp;

He said, &quot;the Modi government was blamed for the recent revelations of bank fraud that unearthed Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya and others. However, I would want to ask that who had sanctioned them loans in the first place&quot;.

He also highlighted at the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill that was recently introduced&nbsp;in the Parliament earlier this month.

He said,&quot;&nbsp;Our government prepared the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill for this and it has already been introduced in the parliament&quot;

He added that through the bill the government will seize the property of economic offenders who flee abroad.

Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill 2018 was proposed to confiscate the assets of a fugitive, including Benami assets.&nbsp;

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Bank fraud ke kuch maamle aa rahe hain. To kehna shuru kiya ki saab ye 2-3 log jo bahar chale gaye hain- Mallya, Nirav Modi aur kaun-kaun, BJP ki sarkaar ne inko bhagwa diya hai. Main puchna chahta hoon, inko jo paisa mila wo kahan se mila? Kisne dilwaya?: Rajnath Singh <a href="https://t.co/BmzcwuO1yW">pic.twitter.com/BmzcwuO1yW</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/975195597253828609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Our Govt prepared the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill for this and it has already been introduced in the parliament, this bill means economic offenders who flee abroad, their property can be seized by the Govt: Rajnath Singh <a href="https://t.co/sWw193Ohn4">pic.twitter.com/sWw193Ohn4</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/975195600290533376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rajnath Singh said, 'the Modi government was blamed for the recent revelations of bank fraud that unearthed Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya and others. However, I would want to ask that who had sanctioned them loans in the first place'

Addressing the Holi Milan Samaroh in Lucknow on Saturday Home Minister Rajnath Singh asked the opposition about who sanctioned loans to fugitives Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and others. He said, "the Modi government was blamed for the recent revelations of bank fraud that unearthed Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya and others. However, I would want to ask that who had sanctioned them loans in the first place". He also highlighted at the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill that was recently introduced in the Parliament earlier this month. He said," Our government prepared the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill for this and it has already been introduced in the parliament" He added that through the bill the government will seize the property of economic offenders who flee abroad. Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill 2018 was proposed to confiscate the assets of a fugitive, including Benami assets. Bank fraud ke kuch maamle aa rahe hain. To kehna shuru kiya ki saab ye 2-3 log jo bahar chale gaye hain- Mallya, Nirav Modi aur kaun-kaun, BJP ki sarkaar ne inko bhagwa diya hai. Main puchna chahta hoon, inko jo paisa mila wo kahan se mila? Kisne dilwaya?: Rajnath Singh pic.twitter.com/BmzcwuO1yW — ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2018 × Our Govt prepared the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill for this and it has already been introduced in the parliament, this bill means economic offenders who flee abroad, their property can be seized by the Govt: Rajnath Singh pic.twitter.com/sWw193Ohn4 — ANI (@ANI) March 18, 2018 ×

Who sanctioned loans to Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya in first place: Rajnath Singh

Union Home Minister on Saturday claimed that the Indian security forces can cross the Line of Control (LoC) in order to protect the country.&nbsp;

Singh accused Pakistan of giving &quot;political legitimacy&quot;&nbsp;to JuD chief and terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed. He reiterated the importance of peace restoration in Kashmir and stated that the Modi government is committed to the cause of retaining peace in the valley.&nbsp;

The Home Minister noted that India seeks &quot;friendly relations&quot; with Pakistan but the country instead gave &quot;political legitimacy&quot; to LeT founder and UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

He also noted that Kashmir will never be separated from India.&nbsp;

Singh also noted that Kashmir will never be separated from India

Union Home Minister on Saturday claimed that the Indian security forces can cross the Line of Control (LoC) in order to protect the country. Singh accused Pakistan of giving "political legitimacy" to JuD chief and terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed. He reiterated the importance of peace restoration in Kashmir and stated that the Modi government is committed to the cause of retaining peace in the valley. The Home Minister noted that India seeks "friendly relations" with Pakistan but the country instead gave "political legitimacy" to LeT founder and UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed. He also noted that Kashmir will never be separated from India.

We will cross border to ensure security: Rajnath Singh

Home Minister Rajnath Singh has said that radicalisation of the populace, particularly youths, is one of the most challenging problems the world is facing currently.

Addressing the fourth counter-terrorism conference - &#39;Changing Contours of Global Terror&#39; - here yesterday, Singh, without taking Pakistan&#39;s name, said that some countries are providing sponsorship and safe havens to terrorists and this has further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of terrorism globally.

&quot;Radicalisation of populace, particularly youths, is another trend and one of the most challenging problems being faced over the world.&quot;

&quot;Several countries in the world have identified the problem and have taken measures to check and control the process of radicalisation and I am happy to state that India has timely busted some modules that were planning to orchestrate terrorist attacks on her soil,&quot; he said.

The home minister said that providing sponsorship and safe havens have further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of global terrorism.

In addition, state support has granted terrorist groups access to resources, guidance and logistics, which would normally be beyond their capabilities, Singh said.

&quot;Any effort to counter the activities of terrorist groups carries the danger of placing the victim nation in direct confrontation with the host nation and its resources,&quot; he said.

Singh said in the recent years, the perception of global terrorism has undergone a massive makeover with the rise of armed terror groups especially in the Middle East, South Asia and Africa.

&quot;This phenomenon could be attributed to the diminishing control in the terror space of the Al-Qaeda leadership, which just a decade ago was the face of terrorism. The shift of AQ Network from the Middle East to South Asia is a phenomenon, which is of serious concern to India,&quot; he said.

The home minister said a new dimension of terrorism is the networking of terrorist groups with the criminal underworld including organised crime gangs, gunrunners, smugglers, drug peddlers, with hawala and parallel banking channels being used for global flows of finance.

&quot;It has enabled global terrorist groups to use the infrastructure and terrain knowledge of local outfits for launching attacks in countries, despite having no presence in the area,&quot; he said.

The home minister said the government has kept a keen watch on the growth of ISIS and their ways of using social media as a key tool for ideological indoctrination, recruitment and networking by targeting young generation and intellectual Muslims.

&quot;The potential threat posed by the ISIS are a large-scale radicalisation of Muslim youths throughout the world, the rise in &#39;lone-wolf&#39; and terror attacks by returnee foreign fighters to their home countries. The terror attacks in Australia and France are telling examples of such threat,&quot; he said.

Singh said ISIS propaganda has significantly altered jihadi discourse in India, which, so far, was rooted in grievances against the Indian state and society.

&quot;I am, however, happy that Indian social fabric has not been affected by the emergence of the Islamic State and I am sure this will not have any further impact in our country,&quot; he said.

The home minister said India has consistently taken steps to intensify and strengthen international cooperation through various means.

Terrorism, in all forms, including, Left Wing Extremism and Insurgency, poses a challenge on the sovereignty of India and the country already faces a serious challenge due to relentless efforts of Pakistan-sponsored anti-India Islamist groups like the LeT, JeM, HUJI and Hizbul Mujahideen, he said.

Singh said the emergence of India at the global level is also being challenged by the terrorist groups, due to its vibrant economy and plural character.

The home minister said that providing sponsorship and safe havens have further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of global terrorism

Home Minister Rajnath Singh has said that radicalisation of the populace, particularly youths, is one of the most challenging problems the world is facing currently. Addressing the fourth counter-terrorism conference - 'Changing Contours of Global Terror' - here yesterday, Singh, without taking Pakistan's name, said that some countries are providing sponsorship and safe havens to terrorists and this has further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of terrorism globally. "Radicalisation of populace, particularly youths, is another trend and one of the most challenging problems being faced over the world." "Several countries in the world have identified the problem and have taken measures to check and control the process of radicalisation and I am happy to state that India has timely busted some modules that were planning to orchestrate terrorist attacks on her soil," he said. The home minister said that providing sponsorship and safe havens have further played a major role in the phenomenal growth of global terrorism. In addition, state support has granted terrorist groups access to resources, guidance and logistics, which would normally be beyond their capabilities, Singh said. "Any effort to counter the activities of terrorist groups carries the danger of placing the victim nation in direct confrontation with the host nation and its resources," he said. Singh said in the recent years, the perception of global terrorism has undergone a massive makeover with the rise of armed terror groups especially in the Middle East, South Asia and Africa. "This phenomenon could be attributed to the diminishing control in the terror space of the Al-Qaeda leadership, which just a decade ago was the face of terrorism. The shift of AQ Network from the Middle East to South Asia is a phenomenon, which is of serious concern to India," he said. The home minister said a new dimension of terrorism is the networking of terrorist groups with the criminal underworld including organised crime gangs, gunrunners, smugglers, drug peddlers, with hawala and parallel banking channels being used for global flows of finance. "It has enabled global terrorist groups to use the infrastructure and terrain knowledge of local outfits for launching attacks in countries, despite having no presence in the area," he said. The home minister said the government has kept a keen watch on the growth of ISIS and their ways of using social media as a key tool for ideological indoctrination, recruitment and networking by targeting young generation and intellectual Muslims. "The potential threat posed by the ISIS are a large-scale radicalisation of Muslim youths throughout the world, the rise in 'lone-wolf' and terror attacks by returnee foreign fighters to their home countries. The terror attacks in Australia and France are telling examples of such threat," he said. Singh said ISIS propaganda has significantly altered jihadi discourse in India, which, so far, was rooted in grievances against the Indian state and society. "I am, however, happy that Indian social fabric has not been affected by the emergence of the Islamic State and I am sure this will not have any further impact in our country," he said. The home minister said India has consistently taken steps to intensify and strengthen international cooperation through various means. Terrorism, in all forms, including, Left Wing Extremism and Insurgency, poses a challenge on the sovereignty of India and the country already faces a serious challenge due to relentless efforts of Pakistan-sponsored anti-India Islamist groups like the LeT, JeM, HUJI and Hizbul Mujahideen, he said. Singh said the emergence of India at the global level is also being challenged by the terrorist groups, due to its vibrant economy and plural character.

Radicalisation of youth most challenging problem for world: Rajnath

Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said cyber crime has become an industry globally and that such offences may occur &quot;very often&quot; due to the availability of resources in wrong hands.

Singh also said penetration of Internet and self-radicalisation have further added to the woes of law enforcement agencies and that continuance of the availability of radicalised materials on the Internet is likely to have a drastic change in society and subsequently to humanity.

Inaugurating a two-day Asia-Pacific regional conference of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) on &quot;Challenges to Policing in 2020- How is Cyber Space shaping our approach to Cyber crime &amp; Terrorism, how do we perform within it and take advantage of it&quot;, the home minister said cyber security network outages, data compromised by hackers, computer malware and other cyber-related incidents and crimes have affected people&#39;s lives.

&quot;I am afraid, cyber attack would occur very often. Tools already exist to mount cyber attacks and they will be improving over the next decade. We have already witnessed an increase in the number and severity of such attacks,&quot; he said.

Singh said cyber crime has become an industry and many cyber crimes-related tools and techniques are being offered as services. Even novice criminal with limited investments of money can afford to have such services at his disposal.

&quot;The increase in digitisation of the financial services with inadequate attention to setting up of a robust process, controls and monitoring mechanisms has given new age fraudsters the opportunity to exploit these gaps leading to new types of financial crimes,&quot; he said.

The home minister said the new age technologies such as the internet of things, virtual currencies, advanced malware, artificial intelligence, etc. Are fast spreading its tentacles. The police are now expected to cope with such rapidly changing technologies, as well.

&quot;Across many countries many cyber criminals uses technologies like darknet, proxy servers, The Onion Router (TOR) services to hide their identity. Extensive use of VolP, caller ID spoofing, use of crypto currencies, encrypted channel for communication, use of social media have virtually created syndicates of criminals irrespective of their nationality,&quot; he said.

Singh said in the fast-changing technology world, computer-based technologies are being increasingly used in various activities ranging from simple home security system to complex nuclear power plants or space programs.

&quot;The cyber-dependency has become widespread today. This has increased vulnerability to attacks against both civilian and military infrastructures,&quot; he said.

The home minister said the governments, defence forces, corporations, financial institutions, utility services, hospitals and other businesses collect, process and store a great deal of sensitive information on systems and transmit data across networks.

&quot;With the growing volume and sophistication of cyber attacks, each one of us is required to protect sensitive information, as well as safeguard national security,&quot; he said.

Singh said there are many risks, some more serious than others, like viruses, computer hacking, pilferage of data, stealing of credit card information, etc.

&quot;Unfortunately, there is no 100 per cent guarantee that even with the best precautions some of these things won&#39;t happen to you, but there are steps you can take to minimize the chances,&quot; he said.

"I am afraid, cyber attack would occur very often. Tools already exist to mount cyber attacks and they will be improving over the next decade. We have already witnessed an increase in the number and severity of such attacks," he said

Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said cyber crime has become an industry globally and that such offences may occur "very often" due to the availability of resources in wrong hands. Singh also said penetration of Internet and self-radicalisation have further added to the woes of law enforcement agencies and that continuance of the availability of radicalised materials on the Internet is likely to have a drastic change in society and subsequently to humanity. Inaugurating a two-day Asia-Pacific regional conference of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) on "Challenges to Policing in 2020- How is Cyber Space shaping our approach to Cyber crime & Terrorism, how do we perform within it and take advantage of it", the home minister said cyber security network outages, data compromised by hackers, computer malware and other cyber-related incidents and crimes have affected people's lives. "I am afraid, cyber attack would occur very often. Tools already exist to mount cyber attacks and they will be improving over the next decade. We have already witnessed an increase in the number and severity of such attacks," he said. Singh said cyber crime has become an industry and many cyber crimes-related tools and techniques are being offered as services. Even novice criminal with limited investments of money can afford to have such services at his disposal. "The increase in digitisation of the financial services with inadequate attention to setting up of a robust process, controls and monitoring mechanisms has given new age fraudsters the opportunity to exploit these gaps leading to new types of financial crimes," he said. The home minister said the new age technologies such as the internet of things, virtual currencies, advanced malware, artificial intelligence, etc. Are fast spreading its tentacles. The police are now expected to cope with such rapidly changing technologies, as well. "Across many countries many cyber criminals uses technologies like darknet, proxy servers, The Onion Router (TOR) services to hide their identity. Extensive use of VolP, caller ID spoofing, use of crypto currencies, encrypted channel for communication, use of social media have virtually created syndicates of criminals irrespective of their nationality," he said. Singh said in the fast-changing technology world, computer-based technologies are being increasingly used in various activities ranging from simple home security system to complex nuclear power plants or space programs. "The cyber-dependency has become widespread today. This has increased vulnerability to attacks against both civilian and military infrastructures," he said. The home minister said the governments, defence forces, corporations, financial institutions, utility services, hospitals and other businesses collect, process and store a great deal of sensitive information on systems and transmit data across networks. "With the growing volume and sophistication of cyber attacks, each one of us is required to protect sensitive information, as well as safeguard national security," he said. Singh said there are many risks, some more serious than others, like viruses, computer hacking, pilferage of data, stealing of credit card information, etc. "Unfortunately, there is no 100 per cent guarantee that even with the best precautions some of these things won't happen to you, but there are steps you can take to minimize the chances," he said.

Cybercrime is becoming an industry: Rajnath Singh

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