Former President Pranab Mukherjee said here on Thursday that Gross Happiness is no less important than Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and its basic foundation is education.

"The world today is not merely talking about Gross Domestic Product, the world wants more. A new concept has come that GDP is important but side by side Gross Happiness is also important and its basic foundation is education," said Mukherjee.

He was speaking at the launch of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and Education Minister Manish Sisodia's book titled 'Shiksha'&nbsp;here on Teachers'&nbsp;Day on Thursday.

Mukherjee greeted teachers on the occasion and said students should be encouraged to ask questions.

He also thanked Sisodia for his book saying, "I thank you for writing a book not for research scholars but for ordinary teachers and practitioners in the field of education. A book like this is important during a time like this and it will be beneficial for teachers, officials and educators."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former President Pranab Mukherjee said here on Thursday that Gross Happiness is no less important than Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and its basic foundation is education.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee said here on Thursday that Gross Happiness is no less important than Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and its basic foundation is education. "The world today is not merely talking about Gross Domestic Product, the world wants more. A new concept has come that GDP is important but side by side Gross Happiness is also important and its basic foundation is education," said Mukherjee. He was speaking at the launch of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and Education Minister Manish Sisodia's book titled 'Shiksha' here on Teachers' Day on Thursday. Mukherjee greeted teachers on the occasion and said students should be encouraged to ask questions. He also thanked Sisodia for his book saying, "I thank you for writing a book not for research scholars but for ordinary teachers and practitioners in the field of education. A book like this is important during a time like this and it will be beneficial for teachers, officials and educators."

Gross Happiness is also important along with GDP: Pranab Mukherjee

Some 52 per cent of US voters plan to vote against President Donald Trump in next year’s national election, but he retains broad core Republican support, a new poll showed on Thursday.

“The latest Rasmussen Reports'&nbsp;national telephone and online survey finds that 42 per cent of Likely US Voters say they are more likely to vote for Trump in the 2020 presidential election,” the polling organization said in a press release. “But 52 per cent are more likely to vote against him.”

Some 6 per cent of US voters remain undecided, Rasmussen added.

“Among all voters who say they are likely to vote against the incumbent, 58 per cent say their vote is more likely to be a vote against Trump than for some other candidate. Thirty-seven per cent expect their vote to be more about the other candidate,” the release said.

Some 75 per cent of Republicans remain likely to vote for Trump again, Rasmussen said. However, 21 per cent of Republicans are are more likely to vote against him next year, the polling company added. Trump loses Democrats by an 82 per cent to 13 per cent margin, it said.

&nbsp;

Some 52 per cent of US voters plan to vote against President Donald Trump in next year’s national election, but he retains broad core Republican support, a new poll showed on Thursday.

Some 52 per cent of US voters plan to vote against President Donald Trump in next year’s national election, but he retains broad core Republican support, a new poll showed on Thursday. “The latest Rasmussen Reports' national telephone and online survey finds that 42 per cent of Likely US Voters say they are more likely to vote for Trump in the 2020 presidential election,” the polling organization said in a press release. “But 52 per cent are more likely to vote against him.” Some 6 per cent of US voters remain undecided, Rasmussen added. “Among all voters who say they are likely to vote against the incumbent, 58 per cent say their vote is more likely to be a vote against Trump than for some other candidate. Thirty-seven per cent expect their vote to be more about the other candidate,” the release said. Some 75 per cent of Republicans remain likely to vote for Trump again, Rasmussen said. However, 21 per cent of Republicans are are more likely to vote against him next year, the polling company added. Trump loses Democrats by an 82 per cent to 13 per cent margin, it said.

More than half US voters prepared to reject Trump in 2020 national election: Report

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday tweeted ahead of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-eyes-on-indias-ambitious-lunar-mission-chandrayaan-2-touch-down-tonight-247882">Chandrayaan-2's touchdown on Moon's South Pole</a>. The landing is expected to take place in the wee hours of early Saturday morning.

Exuding happiness and excitement, the prime minister said that the "moment 130 crore Indians were enthusiastically waiting for is here!". He urged everyone to "watch the special moments of Chandrayaan - 2 descending on to the Lunar South Pole".

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The moment 130 crore Indians were enthusiastically waiting for is here! 
 
In a few hours from now, the final descent of Chandrayaan - 2 will take place on the Lunar South Pole. 
 
India, and the rest of the world will yet again see the exemplary prowess of our space scientists.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1169878177600028672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"India, and the rest of the world will yet again see the exemplary prowess of our space scientists," his tweet read.&nbsp;

The prime minister will visit the Indian Research Space Organisation (ISRO) headquarters at Bengaluru to witness the final descent of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mission-chandrayaan-2-in-isros-cartoon-vikram-and-orbiter-extend-good-wishes-to-each-other-247962">Chandrayaan-2 </a>to the lunar South Pole.

"I am extremely excited to be at the ISRO Centre in Bengaluru to witness the extraordinary moment in the history of India’s space programme. Youngsters from different states will also be present to watch those special moments! There would also be youngsters from Bhutan," the PM tweeted out.&nbsp;

The prime minister also shared that he has been "regularly and enthusiastically tracking all updates relating to Chandrayaan-2 since it was launched on 22nd July 2019".&nbsp;

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I urge you all to watch the special moments of Chandrayaan - 2 descending on to the Lunar South Pole! Do share your photos on social media. I will re-tweet some of them too.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1169878791360925697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This Mission manifests the best of Indian talent and spirit of tenacity. Its success will benefit crores of Indians," he said.

India's ambitious lunar mission Chandrayaan-2 is scheduled to make a soft landing on the surface of the moon on the intervening night of Friday and Saturday between 1:30 am to 2:30 am.

This will be followed by the Rover roll out between 5:30 am to 6:30 am, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) stated.

The second de-orbiting maneuver for Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft was performed successfully in the wee hours of Wednesday.

This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to conduct a soft landing on the moon.&nbsp;

India is the first country to attempt landing on the unexplored lunar South Pole.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday tweeted ahead of Chandrayaan-2's touchdown on Moon's South Pole. The landing is expected to take place in the wee hours of early Saturday morning.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday tweeted ahead of Chandrayaan-2's touchdown on Moon's South Pole. The landing is expected to take place in the wee hours of early Saturday morning. Exuding happiness and excitement, the prime minister said that the "moment 130 crore Indians were enthusiastically waiting for is here!". He urged everyone to "watch the special moments of Chandrayaan - 2 descending on to the Lunar South Pole". The moment 130 crore Indians were enthusiastically waiting for is here! In a few hours from now, the final descent of Chandrayaan - 2 will take place on the Lunar South Pole. India, and the rest of the world will yet again see the exemplary prowess of our space scientists. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 6, 2019 × "India, and the rest of the world will yet again see the exemplary prowess of our space scientists," his tweet read. The prime minister will visit the Indian Research Space Organisation (ISRO) headquarters at Bengaluru to witness the final descent of Chandrayaan-2 to the lunar South Pole. "I am extremely excited to be at the ISRO Centre in Bengaluru to witness the extraordinary moment in the history of India’s space programme. Youngsters from different states will also be present to watch those special moments! There would also be youngsters from Bhutan," the PM tweeted out. The prime minister also shared that he has been "regularly and enthusiastically tracking all updates relating to Chandrayaan-2 since it was launched on 22nd July 2019". I urge you all to watch the special moments of Chandrayaan - 2 descending on to the Lunar South Pole! Do share your photos on social media. I will re-tweet some of them too. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 6, 2019 × "This Mission manifests the best of Indian talent and spirit of tenacity. Its success will benefit crores of Indians," he said. India's ambitious lunar mission Chandrayaan-2 is scheduled to make a soft landing on the surface of the moon on the intervening night of Friday and Saturday between 1:30 am to 2:30 am. This will be followed by the Rover roll out between 5:30 am to 6:30 am, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) stated. The second de-orbiting maneuver for Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft was performed successfully in the wee hours of Wednesday. This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to conduct a soft landing on the moon. India is the first country to attempt landing on the unexplored lunar South Pole.

'World will see exemplary prowess of our space scientists,' PM Modi tweets ahead of Chandrayaan-2 touchdown

Iran said on Friday it had taken a step to further downgrade its commitments to a 2015 nuclear deal with the world's most powerful nations, according to Iranian media, in retaliation to US&nbsp;sanctions reimposed on Tehran.

Iran said on Wednesday it would begin developing centrifuges to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-hassan-rouhani-orders-lifting-of-all-nuclear-research-and-development-limits-247658">speed up the enrichment of uranium</a>, which can produce fuel for power plants or for atomic bombs. Tehran denies seeking nuclear weapons.

"Foreign Minister (Mohammad Javad) Zarif, in a letter to EU (European Union) policy chief (Federica Mogherini) announced that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-chief-says-he-currently-has-no-plan-to-seize-iranian-tanker-adrian-darya-1-247889">Iran</a> has lifted all limitations on its (nuclear) Research and Development (R&amp;D) activities," Iran's Students News Agency ISNA quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying.

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Under the deal, Iran is allowed limited research and development on advanced centrifuges, which accelerate the production of fissile material that can be used to make a nuclear bomb. Iran also agreed to limitations on specific research and development activities for eight years.

President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the deal last year, arguing it did not go far enough, and reimposed sanctions that has slashed Iran's crude oil sales by more than 80 per cent.

Iran has responded by scaling back its nuclear commitments since May and has threatened to continue removing restraints on its nuclear programme unless European parties to the pact did more to shield Iran's economy from the US&nbsp;penalties.

Britain and France, both parties to the pact, have called on Iran to refrain from any concrete action that does not comply with the agreement.

State TV said Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation would unveil on Saturday details of Tehran's new step, which President Hassan Rouhani will accelerate Iran's nuclear programme.

Iran has said that it still aims to save the agreement and on Wednesday gave Europe a new 60-day deadline to salvage the pact, reached under former US&nbsp;President Barack Obama, which curbed Iran's nuclear work in exchange for the lifting of most sanctions in 2016.

Iran's new measures will be "peaceful, under surveillance of the UN&nbsp;nuclear watchdog and reversible" if European powers keep their promises, President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday.

Iran said on Friday it had taken a step to further downgrade its commitments to a 2015 nuclear deal with the world's most powerful nations, according to Iranian media, in retaliation to US sanctions reimposed on Tehran.

Iran said on Friday it had taken a step to further downgrade its commitments to a 2015 nuclear deal with the world's most powerful nations, according to Iranian media, in retaliation to US sanctions reimposed on Tehran. Iran said on Wednesday it would begin developing centrifuges to speed up the enrichment of uranium, which can produce fuel for power plants or for atomic bombs. Tehran denies seeking nuclear weapons. "Foreign Minister (Mohammad Javad) Zarif, in a letter to EU (European Union) policy chief (Federica Mogherini) announced that Iran has lifted all limitations on its (nuclear) Research and Development (R&D) activities," Iran's Students News Agency ISNA quoted Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi as saying. Under the deal, Iran is allowed limited research and development on advanced centrifuges, which accelerate the production of fissile material that can be used to make a nuclear bomb. Iran also agreed to limitations on specific research and development activities for eight years. President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the deal last year, arguing it did not go far enough, and reimposed sanctions that has slashed Iran's crude oil sales by more than 80 per cent. Iran has responded by scaling back its nuclear commitments since May and has threatened to continue removing restraints on its nuclear programme unless European parties to the pact did more to shield Iran's economy from the US penalties. Britain and France, both parties to the pact, have called on Iran to refrain from any concrete action that does not comply with the agreement. State TV said Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation would unveil on Saturday details of Tehran's new step, which President Hassan Rouhani will accelerate Iran's nuclear programme. Iran has said that it still aims to save the agreement and on Wednesday gave Europe a new 60-day deadline to salvage the pact, reached under former US President Barack Obama, which curbed Iran's nuclear work in exchange for the lifting of most sanctions in 2016. Iran's new measures will be "peaceful, under surveillance of the UN nuclear watchdog and reversible" if European powers keep their promises, President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday.

In retaliation to US sanctions, Iran takes further step to scale back nuclear commitments

Hours before India's ambitious lunar mission <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-eyes-on-indias-ambitious-lunar-mission-chandrayaan-2-touch-down-tonight-247882">Chandrayaan-2</a>'s soft landing on the surface of the moon, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Friday posted a humorous message on Twitter featuring the spacecraft's Lunar Orbiter extending good wishes to the Lander ahead of the historic moment.

"It was great travelling with you so far Vikram. Best of luck! I hope you reach the South Pole soon," the Lunar Orbiter says while releasing Lander Vikram. To this Vikram replies, "It was quite the journey indeed! I'll see you around - in the orbit."

"We have the same wishes for Vikram, Orbiter. Want to stay in touch with Vikram and Pragyan as they make their way to the untouched lunar South Pole and uncover its many mysteries? Then keep an eye out for the next edition of CY2 Chronicles!," the ISRO tweeted.

The Lander Vikram of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-a-milestone-for-the-entire-world-former-nasa-astronaut-247874">Chandrayaan-2</a> is named after Dr Vikram A Sarabhai, the father of the Indian Space Programme. It is designed to function for one lunar day, which is equivalent to about 14 Earth days.

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We have the same wishes for Vikram, Orbiter. 
Want to stay in touch with Vikram and Pragyan as they make their way to the untouched lunar South Pole and uncover its many mysteries? Then keep an eye out for the next edition of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CY2Chronicles?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CY2Chronicles</a>! <a href="https://t.co/2iA8W2lxtR">pic.twitter.com/2iA8W2lxtR</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1169815188972826625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Vikram has the capability to communicate with Indian Deep Space Network (IDSN) at Byalalu near Bangalore, as well as with the orbiter and rover. While the Lander weighing 1,471 kg is designed to execute a soft landing on the lunar surface, the Rover, a 6-wheeled robotic vehicle named Pragyan, can travel up to 500 m and it leverages solar energy for its functioning.

It can only communicate with the Lander, which was separated from the orbiter on September 2 at 1.15 pm, entering a descending orbit around the Moon.

Pragyan is housed inside the Lander Vikram and it will roll out and deliver scientific payloads to conduct surface and subsurface experiments.

The lander is expected to touch down near the South Pole of the Moon in the early hours of Saturday morning.

With this, India will become the first country to land close to the lunar South Pole on its first attempt.Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be at the ISRO around midnight to watch the event.

Over 60 high school students across the country who cleared an online space quiz last month will watch the soft landing of the mission with the Prime Minister.

The Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft will be the first Indian expedition to carry out a soft landing on the lunar surface.

This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to conduct a soft landing on the moon.After revolving around the Earth's orbit for nearly 23 days, the craft began its journey to the moon on August 14.

The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.India's second mission to the moon was approved by the cabinet in September 2008, just before the launch of Chandrayaan 1.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Hours before India's ambitious lunar mission Chandrayaan-2's soft landing on the surface of the moon, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Friday posted a humorous message on Twitter featuring the spacecraft's Lunar Orbiter extending good wishes to the Lander ahead of the historic moment.

Hours before India's ambitious lunar mission Chandrayaan-2's soft landing on the surface of the moon, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Friday posted a humorous message on Twitter featuring the spacecraft's Lunar Orbiter extending good wishes to the Lander ahead of the historic moment. "It was great travelling with you so far Vikram. Best of luck! I hope you reach the South Pole soon," the Lunar Orbiter says while releasing Lander Vikram. To this Vikram replies, "It was quite the journey indeed! I'll see you around - in the orbit." "We have the same wishes for Vikram, Orbiter. Want to stay in touch with Vikram and Pragyan as they make their way to the untouched lunar South Pole and uncover its many mysteries? Then keep an eye out for the next edition of CY2 Chronicles!," the ISRO tweeted. The Lander Vikram of Chandrayaan-2 is named after Dr Vikram A Sarabhai, the father of the Indian Space Programme. It is designed to function for one lunar day, which is equivalent to about 14 Earth days. We have the same wishes for Vikram, Orbiter. Want to stay in touch with Vikram and Pragyan as they make their way to the untouched lunar South Pole and uncover its many mysteries? Then keep an eye out for the next edition of #CY2Chronicles! pic.twitter.com/2iA8W2lxtR — ISRO (@isro) September 6, 2019 × Vikram has the capability to communicate with Indian Deep Space Network (IDSN) at Byalalu near Bangalore, as well as with the orbiter and rover. While the Lander weighing 1,471 kg is designed to execute a soft landing on the lunar surface, the Rover, a 6-wheeled robotic vehicle named Pragyan, can travel up to 500 m and it leverages solar energy for its functioning. It can only communicate with the Lander, which was separated from the orbiter on September 2 at 1.15 pm, entering a descending orbit around the Moon. Pragyan is housed inside the Lander Vikram and it will roll out and deliver scientific payloads to conduct surface and subsurface experiments. The lander is expected to touch down near the South Pole of the Moon in the early hours of Saturday morning. With this, India will become the first country to land close to the lunar South Pole on its first attempt.Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be at the ISRO around midnight to watch the event. Over 60 high school students across the country who cleared an online space quiz last month will watch the soft landing of the mission with the Prime Minister. The Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft will be the first Indian expedition to carry out a soft landing on the lunar surface. This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to conduct a soft landing on the moon.After revolving around the Earth's orbit for nearly 23 days, the craft began its journey to the moon on August 14. The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.India's second mission to the moon was approved by the cabinet in September 2008, just before the launch of Chandrayaan 1.

Mission Chandrayaan-2: In ISRO's cartoon, Vikram and Orbiter extend good wishes to each other

While water level has receded in almost all parts of Mumbai, National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) teams have been kept on standby in different parts of the city in view of heavy rainfalls predicted by the meteorological department.

NDRF teams are kept on standby in Kurla, Parel and Andheri, said an official on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Chief Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Western Railway also announced that three trains - Surat-Mumbai Central, Mumbai Central-Surat and Bandra T -VAPI - were cancelled due to heavy rains and water-logging at Nallasopara.

As incessant rains lashed Mumbai and Maharashtra, life was thrown out of gear with delay in train and flight services causing great inconvenience to passengers.

Several passengers were seen sleeping outside the Mumbai Domestic Airport amid the flight delays due to rainfall.

"Passenger Alert!! Due to heavy rains, flights out of Mumbai will be delayed. Passengers are requested to check flight status through Air India website, Mobile App or Customer care," Air India tweeted on Wednesday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains in several parts of the city and suburbs in the next 48 hours.

"Mumbai most likely to get continuous rains and showers with the possibility of extremely heavy falls at isolated places in city and suburbs for the next 48 hours," an IMD release read.

There are relentless rains in several parts across Maharashtra for the past few days. It has also resulted in massive water logging and flood-like situation in some regions.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

While water level has receded in almost all parts of Mumbai, National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) teams have been kept on standby in different parts of the city in view of heavy rainfalls predicted by the meteorological department.

While water level has receded in almost all parts of Mumbai, National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) teams have been kept on standby in different parts of the city in view of heavy rainfalls predicted by the meteorological department. NDRF teams are kept on standby in Kurla, Parel and Andheri, said an official on Thursday. Meanwhile, Chief Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Western Railway also announced that three trains - Surat-Mumbai Central, Mumbai Central-Surat and Bandra T -VAPI - were cancelled due to heavy rains and water-logging at Nallasopara. As incessant rains lashed Mumbai and Maharashtra, life was thrown out of gear with delay in train and flight services causing great inconvenience to passengers. Several passengers were seen sleeping outside the Mumbai Domestic Airport amid the flight delays due to rainfall. "Passenger Alert!! Due to heavy rains, flights out of Mumbai will be delayed. Passengers are requested to check flight status through Air India website, Mobile App or Customer care," Air India tweeted on Wednesday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains in several parts of the city and suburbs in the next 48 hours. "Mumbai most likely to get continuous rains and showers with the possibility of extremely heavy falls at isolated places in city and suburbs for the next 48 hours," an IMD release read. There are relentless rains in several parts across Maharashtra for the past few days. It has also resulted in massive water logging and flood-like situation in some regions.

Maharashtra: Water level recedes in Mumbai, NDRF teams on standby

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed grief over the demise of 23 people in a blast that occurred at a firecracker factory in Punjab's Batala city.

Calling the incident "heart-wrenching", the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) tweeted, "The tragedy at a firecracker factory in Punjab is heart-wrenching. Deeply anguished due to it. My condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. I hope the injured recover at the earliest. Agencies are working on rescue operations at the site of the tragedy."

At least, 23 people have lost their lives while 27 others have suffered injuries in the fire that occurred at a crackers factory in Gurdaspur's Batala city on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, SSP Batala, Opinderjit Singh Ghuman said, "Our forensic team is reaching the site."

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has ordered a magisterial inquiry in the accident and announced an ex-gratia grant of Rs 2 lakh for the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the seven severely injured, who were referred to Amritsar Medical College.

He has announced Rs 25,000 for those with minor injuries.On Wednesday, President Ram Nath Kovind too had condoled the death of workers in the explosion.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed grief over the demise of 23 people in a blast that occurred at a firecracker factory in Punjab's Batala city. Calling the incident "heart-wrenching", the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) tweeted, "The tragedy at a firecracker factory in Punjab is heart-wrenching.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed grief over the demise of 23 people in a blast that occurred at a firecracker factory in Punjab's Batala city. Calling the incident "heart-wrenching", the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) tweeted, "The tragedy at a firecracker factory in Punjab is heart-wrenching. Deeply anguished due to it. My condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. I hope the injured recover at the earliest. Agencies are working on rescue operations at the site of the tragedy." At least, 23 people have lost their lives while 27 others have suffered injuries in the fire that occurred at a crackers factory in Gurdaspur's Batala city on Wednesday. Meanwhile, SSP Batala, Opinderjit Singh Ghuman said, "Our forensic team is reaching the site." Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has ordered a magisterial inquiry in the accident and announced an ex-gratia grant of Rs 2 lakh for the kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the seven severely injured, who were referred to Amritsar Medical College. He has announced Rs 25,000 for those with minor injuries.On Wednesday, President Ram Nath Kovind too had condoled the death of workers in the explosion.

PM Modi condoles loss of lives in Batala firecracker factory explosion

Equity benchmark indices were in the positive territory during early hours on Thursday tracking positive developments on the global horizon.At 10:15 am, the BSE S&amp;P Sensex was up by 128 points at 36,852 while the Nifty 50 edged higher by 59 points to 10,904.

At the National Stock Exchange, sectoral indices were mixed. Nifty metal gained by 2.4 per cent. Nifty auto, FMCG, IT and pharma too were in the green but financial services, PSU bank and realty witnessed marginal losses.

Among stocks, ONGC gained by 6.1 per cent, Coal India by 5.1 per cent, NTPC by 4.6 per cent, and Indian Oil Corporation by 4.5 per cent.Metal stocks were up with Vedanta gaining 2.8 per cent, Tata Steel by 2.6 per cent and JSW Steel by 2.1 per cent.

However, HDFC slipped by 2.1 per cent to Rs 2,054.35 per share while ICICI Bank was down by 1.5 per cent, State Bank of India and Kotak Mahindra Bank lost by 0.6 per cent each.

Meanwhile, Asian stocks shot up after China announced another round of trade talks with the United States next month.

The development came amid fears of an escalating trade war that could trigger a global economic recession.

The United States plans to increase the tariff rate to 30 per cent from the 25 per cent duty already in place on 250 billion dollars worth of Chinese imports from October 1.

Equity benchmark indices were in the positive territory during early hours on Thursday tracking positive developments on the global horizon.At 10:15 am, the BSE S&P Sensex was up by 128 points at 36,852 while the Nifty 50 edged higher by 59 points to 10,904.

Equity benchmark indices were in the positive territory during early hours on Thursday tracking positive developments on the global horizon.At 10:15 am, the BSE S&P Sensex was up by 128 points at 36,852 while the Nifty 50 edged higher by 59 points to 10,904. At the National Stock Exchange, sectoral indices were mixed. Nifty metal gained by 2.4 per cent. Nifty auto, FMCG, IT and pharma too were in the green but financial services, PSU bank and realty witnessed marginal losses. Among stocks, ONGC gained by 6.1 per cent, Coal India by 5.1 per cent, NTPC by 4.6 per cent, and Indian Oil Corporation by 4.5 per cent.Metal stocks were up with Vedanta gaining 2.8 per cent, Tata Steel by 2.6 per cent and JSW Steel by 2.1 per cent. However, HDFC slipped by 2.1 per cent to Rs 2,054.35 per share while ICICI Bank was down by 1.5 per cent, State Bank of India and Kotak Mahindra Bank lost by 0.6 per cent each. Meanwhile, Asian stocks shot up after China announced another round of trade talks with the United States next month. The development came amid fears of an escalating trade war that could trigger a global economic recession. The United States plans to increase the tariff rate to 30 per cent from the 25 per cent duty already in place on 250 billion dollars worth of Chinese imports from October 1.

Equity indices in green on positive global cues, metal stocks shine

The United States on Thursday lauded India's move to declared four Pakistan-based individuals, including Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, as terrorists under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-designates-hafiz-saeed-3-other-individuals-as-terrorist-under-amended-uapa-act-247590">amended Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2019.</a>

In a tweet, the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA), United States said that the new law "expands possibilities for joint #USIndia efforts to combat scourge of terrorism".

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We stand w/ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> &amp; commend it for utilizing new legal authorities to designate 4 notorious terrorists: Maulana Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi &amp; Dawood Ibrahim. This new law expands possibilities for joint <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USIndia</a> efforts to combat scourge of terrorism. AGW
— State_SCA (@State_SCA) <a href="https://twitter.com/State_SCA/status/1169349352827105281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We stand w/ #India &amp; commend it for utilizing new legal authorities to designate 4 notorious terrorists: Maulana Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi &amp; Dawood Ibrahim. This new law expands possibilities for joint #USIndia efforts to combat scourge of terrorism," the tweet read.&nbsp;

The government on Wednesday declared four Pakistan-based individuals, including Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, as terrorists under the amended unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2019, reported news agency ANI.

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar, Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi and underworld don Dawood Ibrahim are the other individuals who have been designated as terrorist.

Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar have already been declared global terrorists by the United States, United Nations and European Union.

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act, which was passed by the Parliament last month, allows the Centre and States to designate individuals as terrorists and seize their property.&nbsp;

Under the earlier law, only organisations could be designated as terrorist outfits and not individuals.

The United States on Thursday lauded India's move to declared four Pakistan-based individuals, including Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, as terrorists under the amended Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2019.

The United States on Thursday lauded India's move to declared four Pakistan-based individuals, including Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, as terrorists under the amended Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2019. In a tweet, the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA), United States said that the new law "expands possibilities for joint #USIndia efforts to combat scourge of terrorism". We stand w/ #India & commend it for utilizing new legal authorities to designate 4 notorious terrorists: Maulana Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi & Dawood Ibrahim. This new law expands possibilities for joint #USIndia efforts to combat scourge of terrorism. AGW — State_SCA (@State_SCA) September 4, 2019 × "We stand w/ #India & commend it for utilizing new legal authorities to designate 4 notorious terrorists: Maulana Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi & Dawood Ibrahim. This new law expands possibilities for joint #USIndia efforts to combat scourge of terrorism," the tweet read. The government on Wednesday declared four Pakistan-based individuals, including Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, as terrorists under the amended unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 2019, reported news agency ANI. Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar, Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi and underworld don Dawood Ibrahim are the other individuals who have been designated as terrorist. Hafiz Saeed and Masood Azhar have already been declared global terrorists by the United States, United Nations and European Union. The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Act, which was passed by the Parliament last month, allows the Centre and States to designate individuals as terrorists and seize their property. Under the earlier law, only organisations could be designated as terrorist outfits and not individuals.

It expands our efforts to combat terrorism: US lauds India on declaring Saeed, others as terrorists under new law

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-russia-against-outside-influence-in-internal-matters-of-any-nation-modi-247605">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, on the sidelines of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-russia-against-outside-influence-in-internal-matters-of-any-nation-modi-247605">India-Russia Summit</a> and Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), held bilaterals with world leaders including Japanese and Malaysian counterparts and the president of Mongolia.&nbsp;

In a press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday touched upon the details of the three engagements.&nbsp;

Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi discussed Africa and strengthening ties in trade, defence and economy between the two countries.&nbsp;

According to MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, "A global partnership reinforced by robust bilateral ties PM @narendramodi met with PM @AbeShinzo on the margins of 5th EEF in #Vladivostok. Discussed deepening multi-faceted ties in economic, defense &amp; security, start-up &amp; 5G areas and exchanged views on regional situation," he tweeted.

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Foreign Secy on PM Modi-Japan's PM meeting: It's (Indo-Pacific) an issue on which Japan-India share similar views. PM Abe spoke of free&amp;open Indo-Pacific &amp; imp.of bilateral coop,on economic side&amp;in terms of people-to-people relations to build secure&amp;prosperous Indo-Pacific region <a href="https://t.co/WWuq5gtlz3">pic.twitter.com/WWuq5gtlz3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169451501086863361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is the third meeting between Modi and Abe in a period of three months. In June, the two leaders held talks at the G-20 Summit in Osaka while they again met at the G7 Summit in Biarritz in August.

"Continuous engagement for concrete bilateral ties. Prime Ministers @AbeShinzo and @narendramodi meet in Vladivostok. This meeting comes after leaders interacted at the G-20 Summit in Osaka and @G7 in Biarritz. A wide range of subjects are being discussed in today`s meeting," a tweet from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) read.

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on PM Modi's meeting with PM of Malaysia: Prime Minister Modi raised the issue of Zakir Naik's extradition. Both the parties have decided that our officials will stay in contact regarding the matter and it is an important issue for us. <a href="https://t.co/Av84Rds4p3">pic.twitter.com/Av84Rds4p3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169450609747136512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Regional trade cooperation was taken up with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad. Malaysia conveyed its position against any form terror and stated that officials from both the countries are in touch regarding the matter of Zakir Naik's extradition.&nbsp;

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: Both leaders have agreed that the first 2+2 Ministerial meeting i.e. the Foreign and Defence Ministers of the two countries will have a meeting preferably before this Annual Summit. <a href="https://t.co/SWUtCzrbnX">pic.twitter.com/SWUtCzrbnX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169449226197094400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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With the Mongolian President, PM Modi talked about boosting people-to-people connect and the cultural, spiritual connection between the two nations. The leaders&nbsp;also discussed ways to tackle air pollution. India will be taking up the project of building a major oil refinery in Mongolia to meet the country's needs.&nbsp;

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Foreign Secy Vijay Gokhale: A lot of discussion was on bilateral relationship with particular emphasis on the forthcoming visit of Japanese Prime Minister to India for the Annual Summit that would take place sometime in December. Dates will be negotiated &amp; announced in due course <a href="https://t.co/qZdBgH44V6">https://t.co/qZdBgH44V6</a> <a href="https://t.co/OKZuDQ4zL0">pic.twitter.com/OKZuDQ4zL0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169448430818619393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister is slated to have a packed schedule on the second day of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-president-putin-hold-bilateral-talks-in-vladivostok-exchange-several-mous-247560">Russia visit</a> today. To begin with, he will attend the plenary session of EEF, visit India Pavillion and will take part in a series of bilaterals with &nbsp;Russia. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Vladivostok for participating in the 20th India-Russia annual bilateral summit and fifth edition of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF).

Modi, along with Putin, will address the summit as the chief guest later today. This is the Prime Minister's maiden visit to the Russian Far East region. He will head for India later in the evening.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the India-Russia Summit and Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), held bilaterals with world leaders including Japanese and Malaysian counterparts and the president of Mongolia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the India-Russia Summit and Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), held bilaterals with world leaders including Japanese and Malaysian counterparts and the president of Mongolia. In a press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday touched upon the details of the three engagements. Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi discussed Africa and strengthening ties in trade, defence and economy between the two countries. According to MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, "A global partnership reinforced by robust bilateral ties PM @narendramodi met with PM @AbeShinzo on the margins of 5th EEF in #Vladivostok. Discussed deepening multi-faceted ties in economic, defense & security, start-up & 5G areas and exchanged views on regional situation," he tweeted. Foreign Secy on PM Modi-Japan's PM meeting: It's (Indo-Pacific) an issue on which Japan-India share similar views. PM Abe spoke of free&open Indo-Pacific & imp.of bilateral coop,on economic side&in terms of people-to-people relations to build secure&prosperous Indo-Pacific region pic.twitter.com/WWuq5gtlz3 — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × This is the third meeting between Modi and Abe in a period of three months. In June, the two leaders held talks at the G-20 Summit in Osaka while they again met at the G7 Summit in Biarritz in August. "Continuous engagement for concrete bilateral ties. Prime Ministers @AbeShinzo and @narendramodi meet in Vladivostok. This meeting comes after leaders interacted at the G-20 Summit in Osaka and @G7 in Biarritz. A wide range of subjects are being discussed in today`s meeting," a tweet from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) read. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on PM Modi's meeting with PM of Malaysia: Prime Minister Modi raised the issue of Zakir Naik's extradition. Both the parties have decided that our officials will stay in contact regarding the matter and it is an important issue for us. pic.twitter.com/Av84Rds4p3 — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × Regional trade cooperation was taken up with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad. Malaysia conveyed its position against any form terror and stated that officials from both the countries are in touch regarding the matter of Zakir Naik's extradition. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: Both leaders have agreed that the first 2+2 Ministerial meeting i.e. the Foreign and Defence Ministers of the two countries will have a meeting preferably before this Annual Summit. pic.twitter.com/SWUtCzrbnX — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × With the Mongolian President, PM Modi talked about boosting people-to-people connect and the cultural, spiritual connection between the two nations. The leaders also discussed ways to tackle air pollution. India will be taking up the project of building a major oil refinery in Mongolia to meet the country's needs. Foreign Secy Vijay Gokhale: A lot of discussion was on bilateral relationship with particular emphasis on the forthcoming visit of Japanese Prime Minister to India for the Annual Summit that would take place sometime in December. Dates will be negotiated & announced in due course https://t.co/qZdBgH44V6 pic.twitter.com/OKZuDQ4zL0 — ANI (@ANI) September 5, 2019 × The prime minister is slated to have a packed schedule on the second day of Russia visit today. To begin with, he will attend the plenary session of EEF, visit India Pavillion and will take part in a series of bilaterals with Russia. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Vladivostok for participating in the 20th India-Russia annual bilateral summit and fifth edition of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF). Modi, along with Putin, will address the summit as the chief guest later today. This is the Prime Minister's maiden visit to the Russian Far East region. He will head for India later in the evening. (With inputs from ANI)

Ahead to day-2 of packed Russia visit, PM Modi holds talks with Japanese and Malaysian counterparts

Russia has offered submarines to India for navy's Project 75(I) on the basis of an intergovernmental agreement. It was suggested during the delegation-level meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-extends-1-billion-line-of-credit-for-development-of-russias-far-east-pm-modi-247730">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>.

Under the project, India plans to indigenously construct six submarines for the Indian Navy at a cost of over Rs 40,000 crores.

In June, New Delhi had issued an Expression of Interest(s) for the shortlisting of potential Indian Strategic Partners (SPs) for the construction of conventional submarines for P-75(I) project of the Indian Navy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-vladivostok-india-extends-1-billion-credit-line-to-russias-far-east-247757">Moscow</a> has proposed a joint design, prototype construction with full intellectual property rights which will be shared equally. It has offered to jointly develop the AIP (air-independent propulsion) for the submarine but based on the progress that DRDO has already made.

Russia, however, did not offer the fifth-generation fighter Su-57 that was showcased at MAKS airshow. A Russian government source said, "We are not offering it to anyone".

India has ordered $14.5 billion worth of weapons from Russia, an announcement was made by Moscow after the 20th India-Russia Summit on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Russia's chief of federal service for military-technical cooperation, Dmitry Shugayev, was quoted by Russian news agency TASS as saying, "Last year and today saw the emergence of a tremendous portfolio of contracts in contrast to all previous years, $14.5 billion. This is an impressive figure, it’s a real breakthrough".

14 government MoUs were exchanged on Wednesday out of which 4 were in the energy sector, 5 in the economic sector, 2 in the infrastructure sector and one intergovernmental agreement to produce spare parts for Russian origin military equipment. 
&nbsp;

Russia has offered submarines to India for navy's Project 75(I) on the basis of an intergovernmental agreement. It was suggested during the delegation-level meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Russia has offered submarines to India for navy's Project 75(I) on the basis of an intergovernmental agreement. It was suggested during the delegation-level meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Under the project, India plans to indigenously construct six submarines for the Indian Navy at a cost of over Rs 40,000 crores. In June, New Delhi had issued an Expression of Interest(s) for the shortlisting of potential Indian Strategic Partners (SPs) for the construction of conventional submarines for P-75(I) project of the Indian Navy. Moscow has proposed a joint design, prototype construction with full intellectual property rights which will be shared equally. It has offered to jointly develop the AIP (air-independent propulsion) for the submarine but based on the progress that DRDO has already made. Russia, however, did not offer the fifth-generation fighter Su-57 that was showcased at MAKS airshow. A Russian government source said, "We are not offering it to anyone". India has ordered $14.5 billion worth of weapons from Russia, an announcement was made by Moscow after the 20th India-Russia Summit on Wednesday. Russia's chief of federal service for military-technical cooperation, Dmitry Shugayev, was quoted by Russian news agency TASS as saying, "Last year and today saw the emergence of a tremendous portfolio of contracts in contrast to all previous years, $14.5 billion. This is an impressive figure, it’s a real breakthrough". 14 government MoUs were exchanged on Wednesday out of which 4 were in the energy sector, 5 in the economic sector, 2 in the infrastructure sector and one intergovernmental agreement to produce spare parts for Russian origin military equipment.

Russia offers joint development of submarines to India 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the plenary session of Eastern Economic Forum in Russia and announced extending $1 billion line of credit for the development of Russia's Far East. He is the chief guest at the Forum.&nbsp;

This will be the first time when any such line of credit is being extended to a particular region of a country. The move is in accordance with India's Act East policy and can be seen as a take-off point of the same, the prime minister added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

During his address, the prime minister hailed the people of Russia, Vladivostok and Russia's Far East.&nbsp;

"For the development of the Far East, India has decided to extend a line of credit of $1 billion," the prime minister announced.

"I was invited to the event by President Putin even before the elections invited," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

"The people of the Far East have stood the test of time and nature's challenges," he said, adding that the people are inspiring and that India is moved by the vision of its people and share it as well.&nbsp;

"Eastern Economic Forum is an initiative which should reach all parts of the world," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

Russian Far East is the easternmost territory of Russia between Lake Baikal in eastern Siberia and the Pacific Ocean and shares a land border with Mongolia, China and Korea and maritime border with the US and Japan.

Explaining India's connect with that part of Russia, the prime minister said "India's connection with the Far East is old. India was the first country to open its consulate in Vladivostok. Even during Soviet time, while other foreigners were prohibited to visit the part of Russia, Indians could easily visit".

Highlighting India's investment in the oil, gas sector and gems sector, PM Modi said," "this area is an opportunity for India" and President Putin's focus on the region has turned the area from "frozen land to flower land"

He said India wants to work with Russia for the development of Russian Far East and "President Putin has a vision for this region" adding, like Russia, "India has a policy of sabka sath sabka vikas and the aim is to make India $5 trillion economy BY 2024".

Talking about Vladivostok-Chennai maritime connect, PM Modi said it will help Indian products reach northeast Asia. PM also mentioned about Indo-Pacific concept and called for "free and inclusive Indo-Pacific". New Delhi believes that Vladivostok can be a springboard for US-India led Indo-Pacific concept that connects the Indian and Pacific ocean but is seen suspiciously by China as an attempt to contain it.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-russia-against-outside-influence-in-internal-matters-of-any-nation-modi-247605">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>&nbsp;held talks with world leaders including Japanese and Malaysian counterparts and the president of Mongolia.

In a press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday touched upon the details of the three engagements.&nbsp;

Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi discussed Africa and strengthening ties in trade, defence and economy between the two countries.&nbsp;

Regional trade cooperation was taken up with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad. Malaysia conveyed its position against any form of terror and stated that officials from both the countries are in touch regarding the matter of Zakir Naik's extradition.&nbsp;

With the Mongolian President, PM Modi talked about boosting people-to-people connect and the cultural, spiritual connection between the two nations. The leaders also discussed ways to tackle air pollution. India will be taking up the project of building a major oil refinery in Mongolia to meet the country's needs.&nbsp;

This is the Prime Minister's maiden visit to the Russian Far East region. He will head for India later in the evening.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the plenary session of Eastern Economic Forum in Russia and announced extending $1 billion line of credit for the development of Russia's Far East.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the plenary session of Eastern Economic Forum in Russia and announced extending $1 billion line of credit for the development of Russia's Far East. He is the chief guest at the Forum. This will be the first time when any such line of credit is being extended to a particular region of a country. The move is in accordance with India's Act East policy and can be seen as a take-off point of the same, the prime minister added. During his address, the prime minister hailed the people of Russia, Vladivostok and Russia's Far East. "For the development of the Far East, India has decided to extend a line of credit of $1 billion," the prime minister announced. "I was invited to the event by President Putin even before the elections invited," the prime minister said. "The people of the Far East have stood the test of time and nature's challenges," he said, adding that the people are inspiring and that India is moved by the vision of its people and share it as well. "Eastern Economic Forum is an initiative which should reach all parts of the world," PM Modi said. Russian Far East is the easternmost territory of Russia between Lake Baikal in eastern Siberia and the Pacific Ocean and shares a land border with Mongolia, China and Korea and maritime border with the US and Japan. Explaining India's connect with that part of Russia, the prime minister said "India's connection with the Far East is old. India was the first country to open its consulate in Vladivostok. Even during Soviet time, while other foreigners were prohibited to visit the part of Russia, Indians could easily visit". Highlighting India's investment in the oil, gas sector and gems sector, PM Modi said," "this area is an opportunity for India" and President Putin's focus on the region has turned the area from "frozen land to flower land" He said India wants to work with Russia for the development of Russian Far East and "President Putin has a vision for this region" adding, like Russia, "India has a policy of sabka sath sabka vikas and the aim is to make India $5 trillion economy BY 2024". Talking about Vladivostok-Chennai maritime connect, PM Modi said it will help Indian products reach northeast Asia. PM also mentioned about Indo-Pacific concept and called for "free and inclusive Indo-Pacific". New Delhi believes that Vladivostok can be a springboard for US-India led Indo-Pacific concept that connects the Indian and Pacific ocean but is seen suspiciously by China as an attempt to contain it. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with world leaders including Japanese and Malaysian counterparts and the president of Mongolia. In a press briefing, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday touched upon the details of the three engagements. Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi discussed Africa and strengthening ties in trade, defence and economy between the two countries. Regional trade cooperation was taken up with Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad. Malaysia conveyed its position against any form of terror and stated that officials from both the countries are in touch regarding the matter of Zakir Naik's extradition. With the Mongolian President, PM Modi talked about boosting people-to-people connect and the cultural, spiritual connection between the two nations. The leaders also discussed ways to tackle air pollution. India will be taking up the project of building a major oil refinery in Mongolia to meet the country's needs. This is the Prime Minister's maiden visit to the Russian Far East region. He will head for India later in the evening.

$1 billion credit to Russia's Far East marks take-off point for India's Act East policy: PM Modi

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