Britain will start re-introducing traditional blue passports next month, the interior ministry said on Saturday, replacing the burgundy European Union documents that have been in use since 1988.

Reverting to the dark blue of pre-EU days has been a point of pride for many Britons who voted to leave the bloc in a 2016 referendum - even though the new passport will be made by a Franco-Dutch firm.

“By returning to the iconic blue and gold design, the British passport will once again be entwined with our national identity and I cannot wait to travel on one,” Home Secretary (interior minister) Priti Patel said in a statement.

Britain formally left the EU at the end of January and introduction of the new passport will be phased in from early March. From mid-2020, all new passports will be blue.

The blue cover is a return to the original appearance of the British passport, with the colour first used in 1921, the ministry said.

The back cover will also carry its own symbolic design – the floral emblems of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

The new passport will incorporate new security features, including a super-strength polycarbonate data page. It also includes printing and design techniques to give better protection against identity theft and forgery.

Awarding the 260 million pound ($335 million) contract to a foreign firm, Gemalto, with a French parent company Thales, generated some awkward headlines three years ago for then Prime Minister Theresa May.

"Sacre Bleu" commented the Daily Mail, while the former CEO of the British De La Rue printing company that lost the contract did not mince his words.

"I’m going to have to go and face (our) workers, look them in the whites of the eyes and try and explain to them why the British government thinks it’s a sensible decision to buy French passports not British passports,” Martin Sutherland told BBC radio at the time.

Britain will start re-introducing traditional blue passports next month, the interior ministry said on Saturday, replacing the burgundy European Union documents that have been in use since 1988.

Britain will start re-introducing traditional blue passports next month, the interior ministry said on Saturday, replacing the burgundy European Union documents that have been in use since 1988. Reverting to the dark blue of pre-EU days has been a point of pride for many Britons who voted to leave the bloc in a 2016 referendum - even though the new passport will be made by a Franco-Dutch firm. “By returning to the iconic blue and gold design, the British passport will once again be entwined with our national identity and I cannot wait to travel on one,” Home Secretary (interior minister) Priti Patel said in a statement. Britain formally left the EU at the end of January and introduction of the new passport will be phased in from early March. From mid-2020, all new passports will be blue. The blue cover is a return to the original appearance of the British passport, with the colour first used in 1921, the ministry said. The back cover will also carry its own symbolic design – the floral emblems of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. The new passport will incorporate new security features, including a super-strength polycarbonate data page. It also includes printing and design techniques to give better protection against identity theft and forgery. Awarding the 260 million pound ($335 million) contract to a foreign firm, Gemalto, with a French parent company Thales, generated some awkward headlines three years ago for then Prime Minister Theresa May. "Sacre Bleu" commented the Daily Mail, while the former CEO of the British De La Rue printing company that lost the contract did not mince his words. "I’m going to have to go and face (our) workers, look them in the whites of the eyes and try and explain to them why the British government thinks it’s a sensible decision to buy French passports not British passports,” Martin Sutherland told BBC radio at the time.

Back to blue: UK passports revert to old colour from next month

Founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises Sunil Bharti Mittal on Thursday assured the government that Airtel would comply with the Supreme Court order and pay the dues before March 17.

Mittal also met Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad during the day.

Speaking to reporters, he said,&nbsp;"I have assured the government that we will comply with the Supreme Court judgment and pay the dues before March 17."&nbsp;

Founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises Sunil Bharti Mittal on Thursday assured the government that Airtel would comply with the Supreme Court order and pay the dues before March 17.

Founder and chairman of Bharti Enterprises Sunil Bharti Mittal on Thursday assured the government that Airtel would comply with the Supreme Court order and pay the dues before March 17. Mittal also met Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad during the day. Speaking to reporters, he said, "I have assured the government that we will comply with the Supreme Court judgment and pay the dues before March 17."

Airtel will pay dues before March 17: Sunil Bharti Mittal

India is making grand arrangements for US President Donald Trump's visit. Ahmedabad, Agra and New Delhi are being spruced up.

One of the so-called beautification projects has landed in the lap of controversy. Indian authorities have built a wall to hide a stretch of a slum.&nbsp;

The shantytown falls on Trump's route from the Ahmedabad airport to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium.

The US President is landing in Ahmedabad in a couple of days. The streets of the city are being cleaned, the bridges are getting a fresh coat of paint and the city's greenery is being upped.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-visit-us-first-lady-likely-to-visit-delhi-govt-school-interact-with-students-281847">Trump visit: US first lady likely to visit Delhi govt school, interact with students</a>

There are flower-pots, lights are being installed and to ace the beautification game, the not-so-beautiful slums are being covered.

According to reports, a 400-meter-long wall has come up in Ahmedabad. It is along the route of the Trump-Modi roadshow.&nbsp;

Critics say that the wall is being built to block a shantytown from Trump's sight.

What the Indian authorities don't want the US president to see is the living condition of 2,000-odd poor locals.&nbsp;

And just like Trump's Mexico wall, the Ahmedabad wall too has divided the entire nation.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/focus-on-reviewing-bilateral-ties-strengthening-global-partnership-mea-on-trumps-visit-281789">Focus on reviewing bilateral ties, strengthening global partnership - MEA on Trump's visit</a>

While some ask what's wrong in beautification? Others say there's a stark difference between beautification and cover-up.&nbsp;

Those living in the slums say that the authorities have gotten their priorities wrong.&nbsp;

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Keshi Saraniya, shantytown resident says, "since they are spending so much money on this wall, why not use that to improve our community and provide better facilities for us".&nbsp;

Another resident here demands "proper arrangements" for their living.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-no-trade-deal-should-be-expected-during-donald-trumps-india-visit-281652">Here's why no trade deal should be expected during Donald Trump's India visit</a>

The papering-up of shanties isn't really the wisest thing to do. Back in 2010, when India was hosting the commonwealth games, the Indian authorities wanted the world to see a rapidly developing nation.

All slums then were covered with bamboo curtains. The move boomeranged. The international press cameras focused more on what was behind the blinds.&nbsp;

This time as well, people are talking about the Ahmedabad wall. The government is being accused of hiding poverty.

What the administration wanted to curtain has now made its way to the spotlight.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India is making grand arrangements for US President Donald Trump's visit. Ahmedabad, Agra and New Delhi are being spruced up. One of the so-called beautification projects has landed in the lap of controversy.

India is making grand arrangements for US President Donald Trump's visit. Ahmedabad, Agra and New Delhi are being spruced up. One of the so-called beautification projects has landed in the lap of controversy. Indian authorities have built a wall to hide a stretch of a slum. The shantytown falls on Trump's route from the Ahmedabad airport to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium. The US President is landing in Ahmedabad in a couple of days. The streets of the city are being cleaned, the bridges are getting a fresh coat of paint and the city's greenery is being upped. Also read: Trump visit: US first lady likely to visit Delhi govt school, interact with students There are flower-pots, lights are being installed and to ace the beautification game, the not-so-beautiful slums are being covered. According to reports, a 400-meter-long wall has come up in Ahmedabad. It is along the route of the Trump-Modi roadshow. Critics say that the wall is being built to block a shantytown from Trump's sight. What the Indian authorities don't want the US president to see is the living condition of 2,000-odd poor locals. And just like Trump's Mexico wall, the Ahmedabad wall too has divided the entire nation. Also read: Focus on reviewing bilateral ties, strengthening global partnership - MEA on Trump's visit While some ask what's wrong in beautification? Others say there's a stark difference between beautification and cover-up. Those living in the slums say that the authorities have gotten their priorities wrong. × Keshi Saraniya, shantytown resident says, "since they are spending so much money on this wall, why not use that to improve our community and provide better facilities for us". Another resident here demands "proper arrangements" for their living. Also read: Here's why no trade deal should be expected during Donald Trump's India visit The papering-up of shanties isn't really the wisest thing to do. Back in 2010, when India was hosting the commonwealth games, the Indian authorities wanted the world to see a rapidly developing nation. All slums then were covered with bamboo curtains. The move boomeranged. The international press cameras focused more on what was behind the blinds. This time as well, people are talking about the Ahmedabad wall. The government is being accused of hiding poverty. What the administration wanted to curtain has now made its way to the spotlight.

Trump in India: Hiding the poor and shantytown of Ahmedabad for US president's visit

US President Donald Trump lands in India in just 4 days. He will be accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump.&nbsp;

The couple has a packed itinerary, including the big 'Namaste Trump' event in Ahmedabad, a tour of Taj Mahal in Agra and the CEO roundtable.&nbsp;

High-security measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the first couple.&nbsp;

The US C-17 Globemaster plane has already arrived in India. Hotels have been booked. Control rooms have been set up. India is all set to host Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-visit-us-first-lady-likely-to-visit-delhi-govt-school-interact-with-students-281847">Trump visit: US first lady likely to visit Delhi govt school, interact with students</a>

When does the US President arrive in India?&nbsp;

Trump will touch down in India on February 24.&nbsp;

Where does he land?

Trump's Air Force One plane will land at Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai airport. He will be flying in a customised Boeing 747-200b.

The Air Force One has a conference room, dining room, an oval office, bedrooms and bathrooms for the president and the senior officials. The plane is also known as the flying fortress. The plane has radar jammers, can be refuelled mid-air and can withstand the electromagnetic pulse of a nuclear blast.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/focus-on-reviewing-bilateral-ties-strengthening-global-partnership-mea-on-trumps-visit-281789">Focus on reviewing bilateral ties, strengthening global partnership - MEA on Trump's visit</a>

Who will accompany Trump on his India visit?

Trump will be accompanied by the First Lady of the United States - Melania Trump on the 2-day visit.&nbsp;

Who will receive the US president? 
&nbsp; 
The couple will be received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

President's itinerary&nbsp;

The US President is expected to land in Ahmedabad at 12:00 pm on February 24. He will then head for a 22-km-long roadshow along with PM Modi.&nbsp;

There will be a quick stop at the Sabarmati Asharam which will be followed by a visit to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Stadium for the 'Namaste Trump' event.&nbsp;

Around 3:30 pm, Trump and the First Lady will leave for Agra. They will take a tour of Taj Mahal at around 5 pm.

Trump will be in New Delhi for the second day of his visit.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-no-trade-deal-should-be-expected-during-donald-trumps-india-visit-281652">Here's why no trade deal should be expected during Donald Trump's India visit</a>

On February 25, the US President and the First Lady will pay respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. Following which, the first lady will visit a government school in the national capital.&nbsp;

Both the leaders will also attend a CEO roundtable.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a lunch for the US president. President Ram Nath Kovind will host a state banquet for Trump in the evening.&nbsp;

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The president's convoy

Trump will be travelling in his presidential Limousine known as the beast. The vehicle can withstand any terror attack and has an armour-plated body. Its fuel tank is covered with protective foam. The windows are also bulletproof.

It also has medical supplies and a fridge with the president's blood type. The Limousine has tear gas launchers, vision cameras and a built-in satellite phone. The vehicle can also be driven in the event of a flat tyre.&nbsp;

Accompanying the beast will be a convoy of military and service cars.

The stay

Trump and his wife are likely to stay at Ahmedabad's Hyatt Regency while in Delhi the couple could stay at the ITC Maurya.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump lands in India in just 4 days. He will be accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump. The couple has a packed itinerary, including the big 'Namaste Trump' event in Ahmedabad, a tour of Taj Mahal in Agra and the CEO roundtable.

US President Donald Trump lands in India in just 4 days. He will be accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump. The couple has a packed itinerary, including the big 'Namaste Trump' event in Ahmedabad, a tour of Taj Mahal in Agra and the CEO roundtable. High-security measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the first couple. The US C-17 Globemaster plane has already arrived in India. Hotels have been booked. Control rooms have been set up. India is all set to host Donald Trump. Also read: Trump visit: US first lady likely to visit Delhi govt school, interact with students When does the US President arrive in India? Trump will touch down in India on February 24. Where does he land? Trump's Air Force One plane will land at Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai airport. He will be flying in a customised Boeing 747-200b. The Air Force One has a conference room, dining room, an oval office, bedrooms and bathrooms for the president and the senior officials. The plane is also known as the flying fortress. The plane has radar jammers, can be refuelled mid-air and can withstand the electromagnetic pulse of a nuclear blast. Also read: Focus on reviewing bilateral ties, strengthening global partnership - MEA on Trump's visit Who will accompany Trump on his India visit? Trump will be accompanied by the First Lady of the United States - Melania Trump on the 2-day visit. Who will receive the US president? The couple will be received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. President's itinerary The US President is expected to land in Ahmedabad at 12:00 pm on February 24. He will then head for a 22-km-long roadshow along with PM Modi. There will be a quick stop at the Sabarmati Asharam which will be followed by a visit to the Sardar Vallabhbhai Stadium for the 'Namaste Trump' event. Around 3:30 pm, Trump and the First Lady will leave for Agra. They will take a tour of Taj Mahal at around 5 pm. Trump will be in New Delhi for the second day of his visit. Also read: Here's why no trade deal should be expected during Donald Trump's India visit On February 25, the US President and the First Lady will pay respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. Following which, the first lady will visit a government school in the national capital. Both the leaders will also attend a CEO roundtable. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a lunch for the US president. President Ram Nath Kovind will host a state banquet for Trump in the evening. × The president's convoy Trump will be travelling in his presidential Limousine known as the beast. The vehicle can withstand any terror attack and has an armour-plated body. Its fuel tank is covered with protective foam. The windows are also bulletproof. It also has medical supplies and a fridge with the president's blood type. The Limousine has tear gas launchers, vision cameras and a built-in satellite phone. The vehicle can also be driven in the event of a flat tyre. Accompanying the beast will be a convoy of military and service cars. The stay Trump and his wife are likely to stay at Ahmedabad's Hyatt Regency while in Delhi the couple could stay at the ITC Maurya.

From Namaste Trump event to visit to Agra, banquet lunch by PM Modi and more: Trump's jam-packed India schedule

SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk reportedly brought shares of Tesla Inc worth as much as $10 million on February 14.

As per a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Musk's purchase of Tesla shared raised his holding to around 18 per cent, roughly 34 million.

The shares were purchased roughly at an average of $767 each.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Tesla's shared closed at a record high of $917.42.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-calls-facebook-lame-and-urges-people-to-delete-it-279969">Elon Musk calls Facebook 'lame' and urges people to 'delete' it</a>

Last Thursday, Tesla Inc announced plans to raise $2 billion in a stock offering as the electric-car maker taps into an astronomical jump in its share price in the past few months.

Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk has repeatedly assured investors that the company will not need to raise more money. As recently as last month, Musk said, "It doesn't make sense to raise money. Diluting the company to pay down debt doesn't sound like a wise move."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/elon-musk-just-dropped-his-edm-track-dont-doubt-ur-vibe-278151">Elon Musk just dropped his EDM track 'Don't Doubt Ur Vibe'&nbsp;</a>

The company said it would offer 2.65 million shares, of which Musk himself will buy up to $10 million in shares. Board member and Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison will purchase $1 million Tesla shares, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk reportedly brought shares of Tesla Inc worth as much as $10 million on February 14. As per a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Musk's purchase of Tesla shared raised his holding to around 18 per cent, roughly 34 million.

SpaceX and Tesla CEO Elon Musk reportedly brought shares of Tesla Inc worth as much as $10 million on February 14. As per a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Musk's purchase of Tesla shared raised his holding to around 18 per cent, roughly 34 million. The shares were purchased roughly at an average of $767 each. On Wednesday, Tesla's shared closed at a record high of $917.42. Also read: Elon Musk calls Facebook 'lame' and urges people to 'delete' it Last Thursday, Tesla Inc announced plans to raise $2 billion in a stock offering as the electric-car maker taps into an astronomical jump in its share price in the past few months. Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk has repeatedly assured investors that the company will not need to raise more money. As recently as last month, Musk said, "It doesn't make sense to raise money. Diluting the company to pay down debt doesn't sound like a wise move." Also read: Elon Musk just dropped his EDM track 'Don't Doubt Ur Vibe' The company said it would offer 2.65 million shares, of which Musk himself will buy up to $10 million in shares. Board member and Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison will purchase $1 million Tesla shares, news agency Reuters reported.

On Valentine's day, Musk brought $10 million of Tesla shares

Wildlife experts have warned that giraffes are now extinct in at least seven countries.&nbsp;

According to a report, there are only 100,000 of these beautiful creatures left on the African continent.&nbsp;

The International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed giraffes under the 'vulnerable' species category.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-steps-into-to-save-two-endangered-bird-species-281647">Supreme Court steps into to save two endangered bird species</a>

In the last 30 years, the species has seen a decline of a whopping 40 per cent in its population.&nbsp;

While the Nubian and the Kordofan species of giraffes are listed as "Critically Endangered", the reticulated and the Masai giraffe are ''Endangered''.

Giraffes are usually around six-metre tall on average and are herbivores. These were originally found in over 20 African nations but are now extinct in seven nations - &nbsp;Burkina Faso, Eritrea, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria and Senegal.

Some of the prime factors contributing to the decline of the giraffe population include poaching, trade for meat, skins, tails, illegal encroachment and habitat loss and degradation fuelled by wildfire.&nbsp;

Wildlife experts have warned that giraffes are now extinct in at least seven countries. According to a report, there are only 100,000 of these beautiful creatures left on the African continent.

Wildlife experts have warned that giraffes are now extinct in at least seven countries. According to a report, there are only 100,000 of these beautiful creatures left on the African continent. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed giraffes under the 'vulnerable' species category. Also read: Supreme Court steps into to save two endangered bird species In the last 30 years, the species has seen a decline of a whopping 40 per cent in its population. While the Nubian and the Kordofan species of giraffes are listed as "Critically Endangered", the reticulated and the Masai giraffe are ''Endangered''. Giraffes are usually around six-metre tall on average and are herbivores. These were originally found in over 20 African nations but are now extinct in seven nations - Burkina Faso, Eritrea, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Nigeria and Senegal. Some of the prime factors contributing to the decline of the giraffe population include poaching, trade for meat, skins, tails, illegal encroachment and habitat loss and degradation fuelled by wildfire.

Giraffes extinct in at least 7 African countries, listed as 'vulnerable' 

Pakistan has until June to improve its counter-terror financing operations in line with an internationally agreed action plan or face actions against it, a global watchdog said on Friday.

"The FATF strongly urges Pakistan to swiftly complete its full action plan by June 2020," the Financial Action Task Force said in a statement after a meeting in Paris.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-major-shift-china-sends-stern-message-to-pakistan-on-fatf-281730">In major shift, China sends stern message to Pakistan on FATF</a>

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"Otherwise, should significant and sustainable progress especially in prosecuting and penalising TF not be made by the next Plenary, the FATF will take action," it added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-response-to-fatf-does-not-mention-dawood-ibrahim-281510">Pakistan does not mention Dawood Ibrahim in its response to FATF</a>

It said such action could include calling on its members to order their financial institutions give particularly rigorous attention to business relations and transactions with Pakistani clients.

Pakistan has until June to improve its counter-terror financing operations in line with an internationally agreed action plan or face actions against it, a global watchdog said on Friday.

Pakistan has until June to improve its counter-terror financing operations in line with an internationally agreed action plan or face actions against it, a global watchdog said on Friday. "The FATF strongly urges Pakistan to swiftly complete its full action plan by June 2020," the Financial Action Task Force said in a statement after a meeting in Paris. Also read: In major shift, China sends stern message to Pakistan on FATF × "Otherwise, should significant and sustainable progress especially in prosecuting and penalising TF not be made by the next Plenary, the FATF will take action," it added. Also read: Pakistan does not mention Dawood Ibrahim in its response to FATF It said such action could include calling on its members to order their financial institutions give particularly rigorous attention to business relations and transactions with Pakistani clients.

Global watchdog FATF keeps Pakistan on terrorism financing 'grey list'

The world is not just battling the coronavirus, the H1N1 or the bird flu but also a growing menace of locusts.&nbsp;

Locusts are now threatening the food security of around 25 million people.

Some countries have sent armies to combat this monster while others have deployed ducks.&nbsp;

Swarms of this pest have wreaked havoc worldwide. They have destroyed crops and pastures and have made the lives of farmers a living hell.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-pakistan-may-seek-chinas-help-to-fight-locust-attack-281536">Now, Pakistan may seek China's help to fight locust attack</a>

Locusts have also threatened food security and economic stability. Battling the plague are countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Eritrea, Djibouti, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Pakistan and China.&nbsp;

The grasshoppers have invaded these countries, decimated their crops. Locust swarms can devour food for as many as 35,000 people in a single&nbsp; 
day. 
&nbsp; 
Some of these swarms are the size of a city.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-deploys-army-pakistan-imports-insecticides-from-india-as-countries-brace-for-locust-attacks-281432">Uganda deploys army, Pakistan imports insecticides from India as countries brace for locust attacks</a>

Experts at the United Nations say that the number of locusts in east Africa could expand 500 times by June.&nbsp;

The winged menace could soon spread to other countries. And if that happens, it will happen fast. Locusts can travel up to 150 kilometres a day.&nbsp;

How are countries dealing with this menace?&nbsp;

Uganda has waged a war against the winged devils. They have deployed the military. Uniformed men are spraying pesticides to save the remaining crops. China has sent out an army of ducks. At least 100,000 ducks have been deployed in China's Xinjiang border. Their task is to seek, destroy and eat the flying locusts.&nbsp;

India too is taking preventive steps.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-consider-importing-insecticides-from-india-to-fight-locusts-281375">Pakistan to consider importing insecticides from India to fight locusts</a>

New Delhi is buying drones and other equipment to monitor the movement of the grasshoppers. The idea is to spot and neutralise the enemy before they crossover from Pakistan.&nbsp;

Experts are of the opinion that changing weather patterns have triggered this locust crisis which is only expected to get worse.&nbsp;

The world is not just battling the coronavirus, the H1N1 or the bird flu but also a growing menace of locusts. Locusts are now threatening the food security of around 25 million people.

The world is not just battling the coronavirus, the H1N1 or the bird flu but also a growing menace of locusts. Locusts are now threatening the food security of around 25 million people. Some countries have sent armies to combat this monster while others have deployed ducks. Swarms of this pest have wreaked havoc worldwide. They have destroyed crops and pastures and have made the lives of farmers a living hell. Also read: Now, Pakistan may seek China's help to fight locust attack Locusts have also threatened food security and economic stability. Battling the plague are countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Eritrea, Djibouti, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Pakistan and China. The grasshoppers have invaded these countries, decimated their crops. Locust swarms can devour food for as many as 35,000 people in a single day. Some of these swarms are the size of a city. Also read: Uganda deploys army, Pakistan imports insecticides from India as countries brace for locust attacks Experts at the United Nations say that the number of locusts in east Africa could expand 500 times by June. The winged menace could soon spread to other countries. And if that happens, it will happen fast. Locusts can travel up to 150 kilometres a day. How are countries dealing with this menace? Uganda has waged a war against the winged devils. They have deployed the military. Uniformed men are spraying pesticides to save the remaining crops. China has sent out an army of ducks. At least 100,000 ducks have been deployed in China's Xinjiang border. Their task is to seek, destroy and eat the flying locusts. India too is taking preventive steps. Also read: Pakistan to consider importing insecticides from India to fight locusts New Delhi is buying drones and other equipment to monitor the movement of the grasshoppers. The idea is to spot and neutralise the enemy before they crossover from Pakistan. Experts are of the opinion that changing weather patterns have triggered this locust crisis which is only expected to get worse.

The locust crisis: How are nations tackling the growing menace? 

The department of aerospace engineering at IIT Madras is working on developing a next-generation artillery shell that can be used by the Indian Army to hit targets that are nearly twice as far the existing distances, with greater precision. While this is an existing technology, it has to be noted that no country has implemented in artillery shells.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION spoke to Lt Gen PR Shankar (retd), Professor of Practice at IIT Madras, whose team had exhibited the theoretical possibilities of the project at the recently concluded Defense Expo in Uttar Pradesh. Lt Gen P R Shankar is a retired Director General of Artillery. He gave great impetus to the modernization of artillery through indigenization. He has deep knowledge, understanding and experience in successful defence planning and acquisition, spanning over a decade. Major 155mm Gun projects like the Dhanush, M777 ULH and K9 Vajra, rocket and missile projects related to Pinaka, Brahmos and Grad BM21, surveillance projects like Swati WLR and few ammunition projects came to fructification due to his relentless efforts. He has been a Professor of Practice at IIT Madras’ aerospace engineering department and is actively involved in applied research.

Here are the excerpts of an exclusive interview with him.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What necessitates the development of such a new generation artillery shell, over and above the existing ammunition? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: We are working on an artillery shell that is based on the ramjet technology, this will enable it to travel unto a range of 60kms and above. Most shells that are in use travel around 30kms or so. Extending the range of a shell would be highly useful in non-contact warfare scenario, like the situations on the western border. Some of the current shells can travel up to 24kms. We could extend the range unto 30kms by traditional methods, but doubling it to 60kms is going to be a game-changer. Changing the gun would mean a tedious process, instead, we could change the ammunition and improve the performance.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: How compatible is this artillery shell going to be with current artillery guns used by the Indian Army? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Although we are developing a new kind of shell, we would not be building it from scratch. We are planning to re-design the existing shells using ramjet propulsion technology. The new shells are compatible with all the existing artillery guns such as Bofors, Dhanush, Vajra and ATAGS. It is a fact that each gun has its own characteristics, but the shell we are developing is of a 155mm calibre. Hence, it would be usable on all Indian or foreign platforms that utilize the 155mm shell.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: How is your method different from the standard range-extension methods for artillery shells? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Traditionally, we would utilize a method called ‘base bleed’ where a chemical at the base of the shell burns emits gas to fill the vacuum behind the shell to reduce the base drag force. Base bleed enables an increase of range by 10 to 20 per cent. We are aiming to double the range by using ramjet propulsion technology through indigenously developed fuel and air intake at the front that helps the shell travel faster, thus enabling it to reach double the range.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: What are the challenges pertaining to maintaining accuracy when you aim to extend a shell’s range? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: When a shell travels for around 30kms, the normal methods of correction are applicable. However, when a shell travels 60kms, it would be affected by wind and weather conditions far more. So, we would incorporate some kind of system to keep it on the intended track. It is called a Precision Guided Kit. We will be developing the precision-guided kits, especially for such extended ranges. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Would Indian ordnance factories and facilities be able to mass manufacture such shells for the Army’s requirements? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Most of the shells that we need are made here. When we do resort to importing, it is only restricted to smart ammunitions and precision-guided munitions (PGMs). Our ramjet based shell is like any other shell and we would be ensuring that OFB (Ordnance factory board) can manufacture it. The ability to manufacture it is there, but we are working on design and technology. That's where IIT Madras comes in, along with IIT Kanpur, Armament Research and Development Establishment(ARDE) Pune and Research Centre Imarat (RCI) Hyderabad.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: Would there be a significant reduction in unit cost due to the indigenous manufacture? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Primarily this technology is a first for artillery shells. Being a new product and new technology, they tend to be very costly. But it is certainly less expensive when compared to missiles and other weapons that have a range of over 60kms. There is also scope for exporting this type of shell to friendly foreign countries.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
WION: How long before we have a working prototype? Any major engineering challenges that we are faced with? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: We expect to develop a working prototype within three to five years. Development of this shell would require a synergy between different types of engineering. We’ll have to combine expertise in Fundamental engineering of propulsion (solid propellants), structural design, a lot of design capability in geo-referencing and guidance with a lot of engineering capability and principles of rocket technology. In the case of a missile, we can design from scratch, but here we are taking an existing ramjet technology and fusing it with an existing shell to get something that doesn't exist. But if we manage to fit a ramjet into an artillery shell, it would pole vault us into the next generation.&nbsp;

WION: Funding and facilities are major components that drive defence research. How are we placed? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: Lot of things have been proven. The design is ready and we are waiting for validation and prototyping. All the theory is ready and certain lab tests are done. We are waiting for funding as well because with new testing facilities we need to do more lab tests and start the prototype test. Test facilities that are to be set up can only be done with government support. Some of the facilities that we would need would be India’s first such facilities. There are a few, but they are with the missile development programme, and those are of a different kind. Once we go commercial, we need many such facilities to do fundamental testing for the long-term. For the ramjet to start working, it has to be taken to speeds of Mach 1 (speed of sound) so that we can test it. So we’d require a high-end wind tunnel that would be able to generate such speeds. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Are there any other defence firms that are working on the same technology? 
&nbsp; 
Prof Shankar: At the recently concluded DefExpo, we saw the Norwegian firm 'Nammo' display a shell of ramjet projectile. Their projectile and our projectile are technology-wise very different. While the theory is the same, the application is different. Ours is a simple system. We also know that various others are working on it as this is very futuristic defence technology.&nbsp;

The department of aerospace engineering at IIT Madras is working on developing a next-generation artillery shell that can be used by the Indian Army to hit targets that are nearly twice as far the existing distances, with greater precision.

The department of aerospace engineering at IIT Madras is working on developing a next-generation artillery shell that can be used by the Indian Army to hit targets that are nearly twice as far the existing distances, with greater precision. While this is an existing technology, it has to be noted that no country has implemented in artillery shells. WION spoke to Lt Gen PR Shankar (retd), Professor of Practice at IIT Madras, whose team had exhibited the theoretical possibilities of the project at the recently concluded Defense Expo in Uttar Pradesh. Lt Gen P R Shankar is a retired Director General of Artillery. He gave great impetus to the modernization of artillery through indigenization. He has deep knowledge, understanding and experience in successful defence planning and acquisition, spanning over a decade. Major 155mm Gun projects like the Dhanush, M777 ULH and K9 Vajra, rocket and missile projects related to Pinaka, Brahmos and Grad BM21, surveillance projects like Swati WLR and few ammunition projects came to fructification due to his relentless efforts. He has been a Professor of Practice at IIT Madras’ aerospace engineering department and is actively involved in applied research. Here are the excerpts of an exclusive interview with him. WION: What necessitates the development of such a new generation artillery shell, over and above the existing ammunition? Prof Shankar: We are working on an artillery shell that is based on the ramjet technology, this will enable it to travel unto a range of 60kms and above. Most shells that are in use travel around 30kms or so. Extending the range of a shell would be highly useful in non-contact warfare scenario, like the situations on the western border. Some of the current shells can travel up to 24kms. We could extend the range unto 30kms by traditional methods, but doubling it to 60kms is going to be a game-changer. Changing the gun would mean a tedious process, instead, we could change the ammunition and improve the performance. WION: How compatible is this artillery shell going to be with current artillery guns used by the Indian Army? Prof Shankar: Although we are developing a new kind of shell, we would not be building it from scratch. We are planning to re-design the existing shells using ramjet propulsion technology. The new shells are compatible with all the existing artillery guns such as Bofors, Dhanush, Vajra and ATAGS. It is a fact that each gun has its own characteristics, but the shell we are developing is of a 155mm calibre. Hence, it would be usable on all Indian or foreign platforms that utilize the 155mm shell. WION: How is your method different from the standard range-extension methods for artillery shells? Prof Shankar: Traditionally, we would utilize a method called ‘base bleed’ where a chemical at the base of the shell burns emits gas to fill the vacuum behind the shell to reduce the base drag force. Base bleed enables an increase of range by 10 to 20 per cent. We are aiming to double the range by using ramjet propulsion technology through indigenously developed fuel and air intake at the front that helps the shell travel faster, thus enabling it to reach double the range. WION: What are the challenges pertaining to maintaining accuracy when you aim to extend a shell’s range? Prof Shankar: When a shell travels for around 30kms, the normal methods of correction are applicable. However, when a shell travels 60kms, it would be affected by wind and weather conditions far more. So, we would incorporate some kind of system to keep it on the intended track. It is called a Precision Guided Kit. We will be developing the precision-guided kits, especially for such extended ranges. WION: Would Indian ordnance factories and facilities be able to mass manufacture such shells for the Army’s requirements? Prof Shankar: Most of the shells that we need are made here. When we do resort to importing, it is only restricted to smart ammunitions and precision-guided munitions (PGMs). Our ramjet based shell is like any other shell and we would be ensuring that OFB (Ordnance factory board) can manufacture it. The ability to manufacture it is there, but we are working on design and technology. That's where IIT Madras comes in, along with IIT Kanpur, Armament Research and Development Establishment(ARDE) Pune and Research Centre Imarat (RCI) Hyderabad. WION: Would there be a significant reduction in unit cost due to the indigenous manufacture? Prof Shankar: Primarily this technology is a first for artillery shells. Being a new product and new technology, they tend to be very costly. But it is certainly less expensive when compared to missiles and other weapons that have a range of over 60kms. There is also scope for exporting this type of shell to friendly foreign countries. WION: How long before we have a working prototype? Any major engineering challenges that we are faced with? Prof Shankar: We expect to develop a working prototype within three to five years. Development of this shell would require a synergy between different types of engineering. We’ll have to combine expertise in Fundamental engineering of propulsion (solid propellants), structural design, a lot of design capability in geo-referencing and guidance with a lot of engineering capability and principles of rocket technology. In the case of a missile, we can design from scratch, but here we are taking an existing ramjet technology and fusing it with an existing shell to get something that doesn't exist. But if we manage to fit a ramjet into an artillery shell, it would pole vault us into the next generation. WION: Funding and facilities are major components that drive defence research. How are we placed? Prof Shankar: Lot of things have been proven. The design is ready and we are waiting for validation and prototyping. All the theory is ready and certain lab tests are done. We are waiting for funding as well because with new testing facilities we need to do more lab tests and start the prototype test. Test facilities that are to be set up can only be done with government support. Some of the facilities that we would need would be India’s first such facilities. There are a few, but they are with the missile development programme, and those are of a different kind. Once we go commercial, we need many such facilities to do fundamental testing for the long-term. For the ramjet to start working, it has to be taken to speeds of Mach 1 (speed of sound) so that we can test it. So we’d require a high-end wind tunnel that would be able to generate such speeds. WION: Are there any other defence firms that are working on the same technology? Prof Shankar: At the recently concluded DefExpo, we saw the Norwegian firm 'Nammo' display a shell of ramjet projectile. Their projectile and our projectile are technology-wise very different. While the theory is the same, the application is different. Ours is a simple system. We also know that various others are working on it as this is very futuristic defence technology.

IIT-M working on next-gen Ramjet-powered 155mm artillery shells for Indian Army 

The second edition of India's first multi-regional culture festival 'Arth' (Arth: A Culture Fest) started today at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi.&nbsp;

In an interactive session 'Whose economy is it anyway?' with Principal Economic Adviser in the Ministry of Finance Sanjeev Sanyal, economist Lord Meghnad Desai said that economies are run by the people and not by governments.&nbsp;

"Over the last 70 years in India, we've had the peculiar delusion that economies are run by governments and by budgets and by regulations.&nbsp; 
Economies are run by people, people who run businesses, people who make jobs, people who make businesses, people who cause progress, people who do inventions," Desai told Sanyal. &nbsp;

Lord Desai also emphasised on the need to give a boost to the private sector.&nbsp;

"We have to change our mindsets. The politicians, ultimately they exist to enable and encourage people to do a better job with the economy and not come in the way of people. So I think the economy should belong to the people," he said.&nbsp;

"We have to be able to use the quality and the talent of the people in the private sector because they go through a much harder system to survive and prosper than the government system. They take the risk, they are the risk-takers," he added.&nbsp;

"This is my message to all political parties - to learn to respect business more," Desai said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arth-a-culture-fest-a-glimpse-of-indias-culture-begins-in-delhi-281947">Arth Fest - A glimpse of India's culture begins in Delhi</a>

Desai gave the example of South Korea and said that after the difficult phase of its partition with North Korea, it picked up its economy on the premise of a "simple idea".&nbsp;

"Their government said to their business people, if you do well, we will subsidize you, if you export and sell abroad we will give interest and subsidy not otherwise. And for 60 years continuously, South Korea's had a growth per cent of 6 per cent," Desai said.&nbsp;

All this and much more discussed on the first day of the engaging fest.&nbsp;

Arth: A Culture Fest, will last for three days (21, 22 and 23 February). In the three-day festival, people will get a glimpse of the culture of India. 
'Arth' is a cultural celebration intended to showcase the ways of India's culture. Starting from today, the festival will focus on literature, culture, society, music, traditions, history and art.

Schedule of Arth: A Culture Fest (day 2 &amp; 3)

Second day (22 February 2020)

11am- Guru's song: Gurbani, Artist: Bhai Manohar Singh

11:45pm - The Warp and Weft: The Grandeur of Indian Wear (Panelist): Shaina NC, Sudeep Bhutoria, Suvankar Sen, Moderator: Shefali Vaidya

12:30 pm - Men whose ideas have shaped India: Netaji, Swami Vivekananda and Savarkar, (panellists): Anuj Dhar, Makaranda Paranjpe, Vikram Sampath, Lord Meghnad Desai, Moderator: Good morning

1:15pm - From Literature to Cinema: Literary Impact on Celluloid (Panelist): Anant Vijay, Bhagwandas Morwal, Manoj Rajan Tripathi, Moderator: Arpit Wageria

2:00pm - Happiness without any reason - Mandira Bedi talks with Satyadev Burman

2:30pm&nbsp;- Lobbying for the 'Right' cause, Panelists: Anurag Saxena, R Jagannathan, Ratan Sharda, Shaina NC, Moderator: Shubhrastha

3:15pm - From God's Own Country: Ottan Thull from panellists in Kerala: Mohana Krishnan

4:00pm - "Becoming the World Guru: Recovering India's place in the new world order, (Panelist): Anurag Saxena, Baijayant Jai Panda, David Frawley, Hindol Sengupta, Moderator: Raghav Awasthi

4:45pm - India's civilizational ethos and its intersection with secularism: Mayank Singh's conversation with Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan

5:45pm - The Abrogation of Article 370 and what it means to 'Kashmiriyat' (Panelist): Gohar Geelani, Jamyang Shering Namgyal, Sushant Sarin, Syed Salman Chishti, Vivek Agnihotri, Moderator: Abhijeet Iyer Mitra

6:45pm - Nationalism in times of strife: New dimensions of nationalism - Sudhir Chaudhary's conversation with Amit Shah

7:45pm - Desert echoes - Mame Khan's performance

8:45pm - Euphoria's performance

Third day (23 February 2020)

11am - Cymbals from the North-East: Manipuri Pung and Dole Cholam artist: Sinam Basu

11:45pm - Sacred ecologies: Indic Faiths and their Message (Panelist): David Frole, Dushyant Sridhar, Hema Hari, Moderator: DK Hari

12:30pm - Life in Literature - Ruskin Bond talks with Premak Goswami

1:15pm - Discussion on culture and art: Conversation between Prasoon Joshi and Yatindra Mishra

The second edition of India's first multi-regional culture festival 'Arth' (Arth: A Culture Fest) started today at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi. In an interactive session 'Whose economy is it anyway?

The second edition of India's first multi-regional culture festival 'Arth' (Arth: A Culture Fest) started today at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Delhi. In an interactive session 'Whose economy is it anyway?' with Principal Economic Adviser in the Ministry of Finance Sanjeev Sanyal, economist Lord Meghnad Desai said that economies are run by the people and not by governments. "Over the last 70 years in India, we've had the peculiar delusion that economies are run by governments and by budgets and by regulations. Economies are run by people, people who run businesses, people who make jobs, people who make businesses, people who cause progress, people who do inventions," Desai told Sanyal. Lord Desai also emphasised on the need to give a boost to the private sector. "We have to change our mindsets. The politicians, ultimately they exist to enable and encourage people to do a better job with the economy and not come in the way of people. So I think the economy should belong to the people," he said. "We have to be able to use the quality and the talent of the people in the private sector because they go through a much harder system to survive and prosper than the government system. They take the risk, they are the risk-takers," he added. "This is my message to all political parties - to learn to respect business more," Desai said. Also read: Arth Fest - A glimpse of India's culture begins in Delhi Desai gave the example of South Korea and said that after the difficult phase of its partition with North Korea, it picked up its economy on the premise of a "simple idea". "Their government said to their business people, if you do well, we will subsidize you, if you export and sell abroad we will give interest and subsidy not otherwise. And for 60 years continuously, South Korea's had a growth per cent of 6 per cent," Desai said. All this and much more discussed on the first day of the engaging fest. Arth: A Culture Fest, will last for three days (21, 22 and 23 February). In the three-day festival, people will get a glimpse of the culture of India. 'Arth' is a cultural celebration intended to showcase the ways of India's culture. Starting from today, the festival will focus on literature, culture, society, music, traditions, history and art. Schedule of Arth: A Culture Fest (day 2 & 3) Second day (22 February 2020) 11am- Guru's song: Gurbani, Artist: Bhai Manohar Singh 11:45pm - The Warp and Weft: The Grandeur of Indian Wear (Panelist): Shaina NC, Sudeep Bhutoria, Suvankar Sen, Moderator: Shefali Vaidya 12:30 pm - Men whose ideas have shaped India: Netaji, Swami Vivekananda and Savarkar, (panellists): Anuj Dhar, Makaranda Paranjpe, Vikram Sampath, Lord Meghnad Desai, Moderator: Good morning 1:15pm - From Literature to Cinema: Literary Impact on Celluloid (Panelist): Anant Vijay, Bhagwandas Morwal, Manoj Rajan Tripathi, Moderator: Arpit Wageria 2:00pm - Happiness without any reason - Mandira Bedi talks with Satyadev Burman 2:30pm - Lobbying for the 'Right' cause, Panelists: Anurag Saxena, R Jagannathan, Ratan Sharda, Shaina NC, Moderator: Shubhrastha 3:15pm - From God's Own Country: Ottan Thull from panellists in Kerala: Mohana Krishnan 4:00pm - "Becoming the World Guru: Recovering India's place in the new world order, (Panelist): Anurag Saxena, Baijayant Jai Panda, David Frawley, Hindol Sengupta, Moderator: Raghav Awasthi 4:45pm - India's civilizational ethos and its intersection with secularism: Mayank Singh's conversation with Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan 5:45pm - The Abrogation of Article 370 and what it means to 'Kashmiriyat' (Panelist): Gohar Geelani, Jamyang Shering Namgyal, Sushant Sarin, Syed Salman Chishti, Vivek Agnihotri, Moderator: Abhijeet Iyer Mitra 6:45pm - Nationalism in times of strife: New dimensions of nationalism - Sudhir Chaudhary's conversation with Amit Shah 7:45pm - Desert echoes - Mame Khan's performance 8:45pm - Euphoria's performance Third day (23 February 2020) 11am - Cymbals from the North-East: Manipuri Pung and Dole Cholam artist: Sinam Basu 11:45pm - Sacred ecologies: Indic Faiths and their Message (Panelist): David Frole, Dushyant Sridhar, Hema Hari, Moderator: DK Hari 12:30pm - Life in Literature - Ruskin Bond talks with Premak Goswami 1:15pm - Discussion on culture and art: Conversation between Prasoon Joshi and Yatindra Mishra

Economies are not run by governments but by people: Lord Meghnad Desai at 'Arth - A Culture Fest'

Minister of Commerce and Industry and Railways Piyush Goyal on Friday said that $5 trillion economy is an achievable goal in the coming five years.

"India has a rich pool of management talent. Millions of people have devoted their life serving the nation, serving corporations, serving businesses and serving the government. $5 trillion economy is something that 1.3 billion people will be engaged in creating. It is an achievable goal in the coming five years," he said.

Goyal, who was speaking at the All India Management Association's (AIMA) 64th foundation day and 14th National Management Day, also urged all to come together with collaboration and cooperation, for fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and mission for the $5 trillion economy, and truly making India a superpower.

Goyal said the MSME is a sector which truly deserves recognition because some of them are doing truly wonderful work.

MSMEs are the largest creator of jobs, largest exporters and largest contributors to the ecosystem and India as a nation cannot survive without them.

"We should all ensure on becoming a nation builder and take our governance and good management practices to the remotest parts of the country," added Goyal.

 
&nbsp;

Minister of Commerce and Industry and Railways Piyush Goyal on Friday said that $5 trillion economy is an achievable goal in the coming five years. "India has a rich pool of management talent.

Minister of Commerce and Industry and Railways Piyush Goyal on Friday said that $5 trillion economy is an achievable goal in the coming five years. "India has a rich pool of management talent. Millions of people have devoted their life serving the nation, serving corporations, serving businesses and serving the government. $5 trillion economy is something that 1.3 billion people will be engaged in creating. It is an achievable goal in the coming five years," he said. Goyal, who was speaking at the All India Management Association's (AIMA) 64th foundation day and 14th National Management Day, also urged all to come together with collaboration and cooperation, for fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and mission for the $5 trillion economy, and truly making India a superpower. Goyal said the MSME is a sector which truly deserves recognition because some of them are doing truly wonderful work. MSMEs are the largest creator of jobs, largest exporters and largest contributors to the ecosystem and India as a nation cannot survive without them. "We should all ensure on becoming a nation builder and take our governance and good management practices to the remotest parts of the country," added Goyal.

$5 trillion economy an achievable goal in coming 5 years: Piyush Goyal

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aaditya Thackeray met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Friday.

"Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray as well as Minister in Maharashtra Government, Aaditya Thackeray called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the Prime Minister Office's (PMO) tweeted.

In the pictures shared by PMO, Uddhav and his son can be seen greeting the Prime Minister with a bouquet.

Later in the day, Uddhav is scheduled to meet Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi and senior BJP leader LK Advani.

Earlier in the day, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that Uddhav and Modi have cordial relations.

"The relation of elder brother and younger brother continues between them," he said.

This is Uddhav's first visit to Delhi after assuming the post of Maharashtra Chief Minister.

The meeting between Uddhav and Modi comes ahead of the Assembly session of Maharashtra that is scheduled to begin on February 24.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aaditya Thackeray met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Friday. "Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray as well as Minister in Maharashtra Government, Aaditya Thackeray called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the Prime Minister Office's (PMO) tweeted.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aaditya Thackeray met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on Friday. "Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray as well as Minister in Maharashtra Government, Aaditya Thackeray called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the Prime Minister Office's (PMO) tweeted. In the pictures shared by PMO, Uddhav and his son can be seen greeting the Prime Minister with a bouquet. Later in the day, Uddhav is scheduled to meet Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi and senior BJP leader LK Advani. Earlier in the day, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that Uddhav and Modi have cordial relations. "The relation of elder brother and younger brother continues between them," he said. This is Uddhav's first visit to Delhi after assuming the post of Maharashtra Chief Minister. The meeting between Uddhav and Modi comes ahead of the Assembly session of Maharashtra that is scheduled to begin on February 24.

Uddhav Thackeray, son Aaditya meet PM Modi in Delhi

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