NEW DELHI: The Union Government today decided to extend the ban on exports of all types of pulses till March 31, 1999 as part of its effort to curb spiralling prices of essential commodities. A decision to extend the ban from January 31 was taken by the Cabinet committee on prices this evening, Food Minister Surjit Singh Barnala said. The ban had been extended in view of the shortage in pulses, he said. The Government had banned the export of pulses in October.

Visa fees hiked

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Government has announced an increase in visa fees for Indians and setting up of more visa processing offices to prevent congestion at the existing centres. Malaysian Deputy Home Minister Tajoli Rosli Gazali said in a statement on Monday that the increase in visa fees will be effective from January 1, 1999 -- with single-entry visa costing Ringgit 50 (Rs 560) and multiple-entry visa Rm 100 (Rs 1,120) a year compared to the present Rm 12 (Rs 134).

Coldwave toll 51

NEW DELHI: The current cold spell in parts of North India, marked by foggy conditions and icy winds, has so far claimed 51 lives, putting flight and train schedules out of gear for yet another day today. Seventeen more deaths were reported in Uttar Pradesh, where so far 36 people have died due to intense cold, while Bihar reported 10 deaths, Punjab one and Rajasthan two.