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Former Prime Minister of India Dr Mammohan Singh on Thursday accepted an invitation extended by the Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh to join the first Jatha (religious group) to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on November 9 for attending the inaugural ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor.

Dr Manmohan Singh will also attend the main event of Guru Nanak’s 550th birth anniversary celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi on November 12.

It is interesting to know that former Indian PM Singh never visited Pakistan during 10 years of his prime ministership. Manmohan Singh was born in Gah which is in now in Pakistan's Punjab Province but after partition, his family shifted to Amritsar.

On Monday, Pakistani FM Qureshi announced that they would invite Dr Manmohan Singh for the opening of Kartarpur corridor, though no official reply has come from the former PM.

Earlier in the day, Punjab CM met PM Modi to invite him for Kartarpur corridor opening. He also sought, "clearance for special delegation to visit Gurdwara Nankana Sahib &amp; bring back Nagar Kirtan to mark the historic occasion", a tweet by the media advisor of Punjab CM, Raveen Thukral said.

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Former PM Dr Manmohan Singh accepts <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a>’s invite to join 1st Jatha to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on Nov 9, will also attend Sultanpur Lodhi main event <a href="https://twitter.com/550yrsGuruNanak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@550yrsGuruNanak</a> <a href="https://t.co/cD9rJoZUBT">pic.twitter.com/cD9rJoZUBT</a>
— Raveen Thukral (@RT_MediaAdvPbCM) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_MediaAdvPbCM/status/1179657297947066368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Happy to meet former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh ji at his residence today. Have invited him to join us on the 1st Jatha to Sri Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara &amp; attend the main event at Sultanpur Lodhi to mark Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/550thPrakashPurab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#550thPrakashPurab</a>. <a href="https://t.co/CZw5bbeUDj">pic.twitter.com/CZw5bbeUDj</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1179661269613174784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Both President Kovind and PM Modi have accepted Punjab CM’s invite to attend 550th Guru Nanak Prakash Purab celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in November.

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Met President Ram Nath Kovind ji and invited him to grace the celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/550PrakashPurab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#550PrakashPurab</a> of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabGovtIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabGovtIndia</a> is making all necessary arrangements to observe this historic occasion in a befitting manner. <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> <a href="https://t.co/FoQRGMG7t1">pic.twitter.com/FoQRGMG7t1</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1179688424506187777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Met PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; apprised him of the State Government’s preparations for the grand celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi &amp; Dera Baba Nanak on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/550PrakashPurab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#550PrakashPurab</a> of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Invited him to visit Punjab for the celebrations and preside over same. <a href="https://t.co/3nFAap9OOo">pic.twitter.com/3nFAap9OOo</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1179636487765147649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The corridor is expected to be open by November 2019 during the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev Ji by both India and Pakistan though there hasn't been any official announcement.

The Gurudwara is built on the location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the last 18 years of his life and is located in Pakistan's Narowal district, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak on the Indian side.

Former Prime Minister of India Dr Mammohan Singh on Thursday accepted an invitation extended by the Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh to join the first Jatha (religious group) to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on November 9 for attending the inaugural ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor.

Former Prime Minister of India Dr Mammohan Singh on Thursday accepted an invitation extended by the Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh to join the first Jatha (religious group) to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on November 9 for attending the inaugural ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor. Dr Manmohan Singh will also attend the main event of Guru Nanak’s 550th birth anniversary celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi on November 12. It is interesting to know that former Indian PM Singh never visited Pakistan during 10 years of his prime ministership. Manmohan Singh was born in Gah which is in now in Pakistan's Punjab Province but after partition, his family shifted to Amritsar. On Monday, Pakistani FM Qureshi announced that they would invite Dr Manmohan Singh for the opening of Kartarpur corridor, though no official reply has come from the former PM. Earlier in the day, Punjab CM met PM Modi to invite him for Kartarpur corridor opening. He also sought, "clearance for special delegation to visit Gurdwara Nankana Sahib & bring back Nagar Kirtan to mark the historic occasion", a tweet by the media advisor of Punjab CM, Raveen Thukral said. Former PM Dr Manmohan Singh accepts @capt_amarinder’s invite to join 1st Jatha to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on Nov 9, will also attend Sultanpur Lodhi main event @550yrsGuruNanak pic.twitter.com/cD9rJoZUBT — Raveen Thukral (@RT_MediaAdvPbCM) October 3, 2019 × Happy to meet former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh ji at his residence today. Have invited him to join us on the 1st Jatha to Sri Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara & attend the main event at Sultanpur Lodhi to mark Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's #550thPrakashPurab. pic.twitter.com/CZw5bbeUDj — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) October 3, 2019 × Both President Kovind and PM Modi have accepted Punjab CM’s invite to attend 550th Guru Nanak Prakash Purab celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in November. Met President Ram Nath Kovind ji and invited him to grace the celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi on the occasion of #550PrakashPurab of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. @PunjabGovtIndia is making all necessary arrangements to observe this historic occasion in a befitting manner. @rashtrapatibhvn pic.twitter.com/FoQRGMG7t1 — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) October 3, 2019 × Met PM Shri @narendramodi & apprised him of the State Government’s preparations for the grand celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi & Dera Baba Nanak on the occasion of #550PrakashPurab of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Invited him to visit Punjab for the celebrations and preside over same. pic.twitter.com/3nFAap9OOo — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) October 3, 2019 × The corridor is expected to be open by November 2019 during the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev Ji by both India and Pakistan though there hasn't been any official announcement. The Gurudwara is built on the location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the last 18 years of his life and is located in Pakistan's Narowal district, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak on the Indian side.

Former PM Manmohan Singh to visit Kartarpur Gurdwara in Pakistan in November

Congress MP DK Suresh, whose brother DK Shivakumar is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with money laundering case, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) here on Thursday.

This comes two days after the Delhi court extended Congress leader Shivakumar's judicial custody till October 15.

The court had allowed the ED to interrogate Shivakumar on October 4 and 5 in the Tihar Jail.

The leader was arrested by the agency on September 3 and was sent to judicial custody in Tihar jail on September 17. Prior to that, he was in ED's custody for 14 days.

He was produced before the court yesterday on the culmination of his remand period.

The money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed by the Income Tax department, alleging tax evasion, hawala transactions running into crores.

 
&nbsp;

Congress MP DK Suresh, whose brother DK Shivakumar is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with money laundering case, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) here on Thursday.

Congress MP DK Suresh, whose brother DK Shivakumar is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with money laundering case, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) here on Thursday. This comes two days after the Delhi court extended Congress leader Shivakumar's judicial custody till October 15. The court had allowed the ED to interrogate Shivakumar on October 4 and 5 in the Tihar Jail. The leader was arrested by the agency on September 3 and was sent to judicial custody in Tihar jail on September 17. Prior to that, he was in ED's custody for 14 days. He was produced before the court yesterday on the culmination of his remand period. The money laundering case was registered against him by the ED in September last year, based on a complaint filed by the Income Tax department, alleging tax evasion, hawala transactions running into crores.

Delhi: Shivakumar's brother, DK Suresh appears before Enforcement Directorate

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has arrived in India on a 4 day India visit, the first since her landslide victory in December of 2018. Minister of State for Women and Child Development Debasree Chaudhuri, Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das, Bangladesh's HC Syed Muazzem Ali and JS(Bangladesh Myanmar) in the Ministry of external affairs Vikram Doraiswami received the Bangladeshi PM at the airport. Watch this video to know more.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrives in India on 4-day visit

While Imran Khan remained busy looking for as many avenues as possible to target India raising claims of oppression and human rights <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-avoids-wions-question-walks-away-251959">abuses in Kashmir at UNGA</a>, Pakistan’s human rights commission in its latest report has observed that Balochistan continues to be short-changed politically.&nbsp;

The report said incidents of disappearance and disproportionate use of force against dissidents remain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/baloch-activists-hold-protest-in-london-against-enforced-disappearances-of-women-in-balochistan-252910">Balochistan is the largest</a> province of Pakistan in terms of land area, where ethnic groups like Pashtuns and Baloch have&nbsp;faced regular human rights violations attracting concerns from the international community.&nbsp;

In&nbsp;Balochistan, at least 52 per cent population follow Balouch with Pashtuns at 36 per cent. Many ethnic and religious minorities also live in the area comprising twelve per cent of the population. It is again in the spotlight in the international arena because of the new report titled - &nbsp;Balochistan: Neglected still, which has been published after extensive fact-finding missions conducted in the Balochistan province.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://t.co/Smqi9Pmhl6">https://t.co/Smqi9Pmhl6</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Balochistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Balochistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JustReleased?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JustReleased</a> <a href="https://t.co/ABESKwX9ih">pic.twitter.com/ABESKwX9ih</a>
— Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) <a href="https://twitter.com/HRCP87/status/1179393288182349824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan's human&nbsp;rights organization alleged&nbsp;routine disappearances of suspected dissidents’ of distraught families of victims with nowhere to go. Besides violations of operational standards in the mines of coal-rich Balochistan, the mission also found that Pakistan's&nbsp;security agencies extort unofficial "protection"&nbsp;money from the poor miners based on per tonne production.

The stain of enforced disappearances and missing persons, military and paramilitary abuses, religious persecution of minorities, presence of Pakistan&nbsp;frontier corps in civil administration and agriculture, energy and the climate crisis in the province are the few of the issues but the list of atrocities committed against the locals is incessant in the fact-finding mission's report.&nbsp;

The report&nbsp;also observed&nbsp;"off-the-book"&nbsp;presence of Pakistani frontier corps in civil administration which undermines the provincial government. The rights commission called for an end to what it called "the unwarranted involvement and permanent presence of security personnel."

The Pakistani human rights commission’s report is being seen as a strong indictment&nbsp;against the duplicity and hypocrisy of the Imran Khan-led administration. The report has revealed chronic systemic discrimination and political isolation in its largest, most resource-rich province.&nbsp;

In the report, the commission recommended a law that criminalises enforced disappearances, punishes the perpetrators and compensates the victims'&nbsp;families&nbsp;which can be enacted expeditiously in Balochistan. 
&nbsp;

While Imran Khan remained busy looking for as many avenues as possible to target India raising claims of oppression and human rights abuses in Kashmir at UNGA, Pakistan’s human rights commission in its latest report has observed that Balochistan continues to be short-changed politically.

While Imran Khan remained busy looking for as many avenues as possible to target India raising claims of oppression and human rights abuses in Kashmir at UNGA, Pakistan’s human rights commission in its latest report has observed that Balochistan continues to be short-changed politically. The report said incidents of disappearance and disproportionate use of force against dissidents remain. Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan in terms of land area, where ethnic groups like Pashtuns and Baloch have faced regular human rights violations attracting concerns from the international community. In Balochistan, at least 52 per cent population follow Balouch with Pashtuns at 36 per cent. Many ethnic and religious minorities also live in the area comprising twelve per cent of the population. It is again in the spotlight in the international arena because of the new report titled - Balochistan: Neglected still, which has been published after extensive fact-finding missions conducted in the Balochistan province. https://t.co/Smqi9Pmhl6 #Balochistan #JustReleased pic.twitter.com/ABESKwX9ih — Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) October 2, 2019 × Pakistan's human rights organization alleged routine disappearances of suspected dissidents’ of distraught families of victims with nowhere to go. Besides violations of operational standards in the mines of coal-rich Balochistan, the mission also found that Pakistan's security agencies extort unofficial "protection" money from the poor miners based on per tonne production. The stain of enforced disappearances and missing persons, military and paramilitary abuses, religious persecution of minorities, presence of Pakistan frontier corps in civil administration and agriculture, energy and the climate crisis in the province are the few of the issues but the list of atrocities committed against the locals is incessant in the fact-finding mission's report. The report also observed "off-the-book" presence of Pakistani frontier corps in civil administration which undermines the provincial government. The rights commission called for an end to what it called "the unwarranted involvement and permanent presence of security personnel." The Pakistani human rights commission’s report is being seen as a strong indictment against the duplicity and hypocrisy of the Imran Khan-led administration. The report has revealed chronic systemic discrimination and political isolation in its largest, most resource-rich province. In the report, the commission recommended a law that criminalises enforced disappearances, punishes the perpetrators and compensates the victims' families which can be enacted expeditiously in Balochistan.

Balochistan continues to be short-changed politically: Human Rights Commission of Pakistan

National Security Advisory NSA Ajit Doval on Thursday was in UAE and met Crown Prince of Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed with focus on energy ties.&nbsp;

NSA also met Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, chairman of the UAE's state-owned oil company — the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company or ADNOC.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia's Aramco and UAE's ADNOC are planning a refinery in India's west coast at the cost of $44 billion &amp; will have a capacity of 60 million metric tonnes. India has also got oil from ADNOC for its Strategic Petroleum Reserve at Mangalore.&nbsp;

UAE accounts for 8 per cent of India’s oil imports and is the fifth-largest supplier of crude oil to India.

A govt release said,"UAE and India have strong bonds and there have regular interactions on various issues at the highest levels. NSA’s visit will further strengthen the understanding and cooperation between the two nations."

NSA Doval offered his condolences on the death of his uncle, Sheikh Suhail bin Mubarak Al Ketbi, on behalf of PM Modi to the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

PM Modi had tweeted about the passing of Mubarak Al Ketbi on Wednesday. PM tweeted, "I am deeply anguished by the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Suhail bin Mubarak Al Ketbi, the uncle of Crown Prince Sheikh @MohamedBinZayed. He served his nation with utmost dedication and diligence. My condolences to the family of the Crown Prince in this hour of grief."

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I am deeply anguished by the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Suhail bin Mubarak Al Ketbi, the uncle of Crown Prince Sheikh <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedBinZayed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MohamedBinZayed</a>. He served his nation with utmost dedication and diligence. My condolences to the family of the Crown Prince in this hour of grief.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1179430700610719745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The visit to the UAE comes a day after his visit to Saudi Arabia where he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman for 2 hours.

India is increasing its engagement with the Islamic world. Earlier this year, PM Modi visited UAE and was conferred the highest civilian award of the country--the Zayed Medal.&nbsp;

PM Modi first visited the country in August of 2015 which was followed by the visit of Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2016. The following year the Crown Prince was the chief guest at India's republic day parade and again in 2018 PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. 2019 he again visited the west asian country.

National Security Advisory NSA Ajit Doval on Thursday was in UAE and met Crown Prince of Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed with focus on energy ties.

National Security Advisory NSA Ajit Doval on Thursday was in UAE and met Crown Prince of Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed with focus on energy ties. NSA also met Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, chairman of the UAE's state-owned oil company — the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company or ADNOC. Saudi Arabia's Aramco and UAE's ADNOC are planning a refinery in India's west coast at the cost of $44 billion & will have a capacity of 60 million metric tonnes. India has also got oil from ADNOC for its Strategic Petroleum Reserve at Mangalore. UAE accounts for 8 per cent of India’s oil imports and is the fifth-largest supplier of crude oil to India. A govt release said,"UAE and India have strong bonds and there have regular interactions on various issues at the highest levels. NSA’s visit will further strengthen the understanding and cooperation between the two nations." NSA Doval offered his condolences on the death of his uncle, Sheikh Suhail bin Mubarak Al Ketbi, on behalf of PM Modi to the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. PM Modi had tweeted about the passing of Mubarak Al Ketbi on Wednesday. PM tweeted, "I am deeply anguished by the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Suhail bin Mubarak Al Ketbi, the uncle of Crown Prince Sheikh @MohamedBinZayed. He served his nation with utmost dedication and diligence. My condolences to the family of the Crown Prince in this hour of grief." I am deeply anguished by the passing away of His Highness Sheikh Suhail bin Mubarak Al Ketbi, the uncle of Crown Prince Sheikh @MohamedBinZayed. He served his nation with utmost dedication and diligence. My condolences to the family of the Crown Prince in this hour of grief. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2019 × The visit to the UAE comes a day after his visit to Saudi Arabia where he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman for 2 hours. India is increasing its engagement with the Islamic world. Earlier this year, PM Modi visited UAE and was conferred the highest civilian award of the country--the Zayed Medal. PM Modi first visited the country in August of 2015 which was followed by the visit of Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2016. The following year the Crown Prince was the chief guest at India's republic day parade and again in 2018 PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. 2019 he again visited the west asian country.

NSA Ajit Doval meets Abu Dhabi crown prince; focus on energy ties

A suspected Pakistani intruder was apprehended by the Border Security Force (BSF) from Akhnoor sector along the International Border (IB) area last night while he was trying to sneak in into the Indian side.

The BSF personnel patrolling the border area caught the suspect red-handed. "He was caught when he was trying to sneak in into the Indian side," BSF sources said.

After initial questioning, the BSF handed over the suspect to the local police.

The suspect is now detained by Jammu and Kashmir Police, although no case has been registered yet against him.

"It seems that he (suspected intruder) is from the Pakistan side. We are questioning him, the suspect is not revealing his identity properly," sources in the Jammu and Kashmir Police said.

In recent days, there has been a massive push from the Pakistan side to send intruders into India to disturb law and order situation in Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

A suspected Pakistani intruder was apprehended by the Border Security Force (BSF) from Akhnoor sector along the International Border (IB) area last night while he was trying to sneak in into the Indian side.

A suspected Pakistani intruder was apprehended by the Border Security Force (BSF) from Akhnoor sector along the International Border (IB) area last night while he was trying to sneak in into the Indian side. The BSF personnel patrolling the border area caught the suspect red-handed. "He was caught when he was trying to sneak in into the Indian side," BSF sources said. After initial questioning, the BSF handed over the suspect to the local police. The suspect is now detained by Jammu and Kashmir Police, although no case has been registered yet against him. "It seems that he (suspected intruder) is from the Pakistan side. We are questioning him, the suspect is not revealing his identity properly," sources in the Jammu and Kashmir Police said. In recent days, there has been a massive push from the Pakistan side to send intruders into India to disturb law and order situation in Kashmir Valley.

J&K: Suspected Pakistani intruder apprehended by BSF

Continuing engagement with the neighbouring countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate two projects in Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth. The projects are Mauritius Phase one of the metro express and a new ENT hospital and will be inaugurated via video conference at around 4 pm today.

India is already involved in a number of projects in the country. In 2016, India provided a Special Economic Package of $ 353 million for the execution of 5 projects in the Indian ocean country. These projects are-- Metro Express Project, Supreme Court Building, New ENT Hospital, Social Housing project, Supply of digital tablets to primary school children.

Some other India-assisted projects existing in Mauritius include the Upadhyay Training Centre, the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital, the Subramania Bharati Eye Centre, the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre and the Swami Vivekananda International Conference Centre (SVICC).&nbsp;

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been to India two times this year—one at the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May and first time when he was Chief Guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2019. Both PM Modi and PM Jugnauth met on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly last week in New York

The inauguration of projects in Mauritius by video conferencing comes weeks after India inaugurated projects in Nepal. In early September, India and Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli inaugurated south Asia's first cross border oil pipeline. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc.

In late September, PM Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga jointly inaugurated a statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via video-conferencing.

Continuing engagement with the neighbouring countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate two projects in Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth. The projects are Mauritius Phase one of the metro express and a new ENT hospital and will be inaugurated via video conference at around 4 pm today.

Continuing engagement with the neighbouring countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate two projects in Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth. The projects are Mauritius Phase one of the metro express and a new ENT hospital and will be inaugurated via video conference at around 4 pm today. India is already involved in a number of projects in the country. In 2016, India provided a Special Economic Package of $ 353 million for the execution of 5 projects in the Indian ocean country. These projects are-- Metro Express Project, Supreme Court Building, New ENT Hospital, Social Housing project, Supply of digital tablets to primary school children. Some other India-assisted projects existing in Mauritius include the Upadhyay Training Centre, the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital, the Subramania Bharati Eye Centre, the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre and the Swami Vivekananda International Conference Centre (SVICC). Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been to India two times this year—one at the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May and first time when he was Chief Guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2019. Both PM Modi and PM Jugnauth met on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly last week in New York The inauguration of projects in Mauritius by video conferencing comes weeks after India inaugurated projects in Nepal. In early September, India and Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli inaugurated south Asia's first cross border oil pipeline. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc. In late September, PM Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga jointly inaugurated a statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via video-conferencing.

PM Modi to jointly launch projects with Mauritius PM Jugnauth by video conference

Urging people to shun single-use plastic, Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that the plastic is hazardous for the environment across the globe and has also led to the death of many animals.

"I urge women to carry their own bags instead of plastic while going out. One bag can be used for years instead of a thin plastic bag. It takes 400 years for one thin plastic bag to decompose. It is hazardous not only for the country but for the entire Earth. Not only that, we all worship cows. But many times when a cattle die, we find that a large amount of plastic is found from its stomach. Plastic has too many negative impacts on our environment," he said while addressing Gandhi Sankalp Yatra in New Delhi.

The Home Minister also stated that it is the responsibility of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers to create awareness about the harmful effects of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-delays-plan-to-ban-single-use-plastic-in-countrywide-253183">single-use plastic </a>among the masses.

While addressing a gathering, Shah also lauded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-running-a-big-campaign-to-free-the-country-of-single-use-plastic-pm-modi-at-unga-252498">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> for talking about the importance of water conservation and claimed that scores of ponds have been filled with water because of the awareness among the general public.

"After becoming the Prime Minister for the second time, Modi Ji created the Water Power Ministry. It is Modi Ji, who took up the task of creating awareness about saving water. The result is that millions of pounds in the country are now filled with fresh water," he said.

He also announced that the BJP leaders and workers will be going to march for 150 kilometres to propagate Gandhiji's&nbsp;principles to all the people 'Gandhi Sankalp Yatra'.

"BJP workers across the country will travel 150 km from today to spread Gandhiji's values to the masses. We will try to spread his message from door to door. The great man who showed the path to resolve the issues of the entire world, the man who strengthed the roots of the democracy was Mahatma Gandhi," Shah said.

BJP President Amit Shah today flagged off four-month-long nationwide Gandhi Sankalp Yatra from Shalimar Bagh in Delhi to propagate ideals of the 'Father of the Nation', including cleanliness, simplicity, use of Khadi and non-violence.

The Union Minister also walked some distance with Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and other prominent leaders of the BJP to participate in the event.

Urging people to shun single-use plastic, Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that the plastic is hazardous for the environment across the globe and has also led to the death of many animals.

Urging people to shun single-use plastic, Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that the plastic is hazardous for the environment across the globe and has also led to the death of many animals. "I urge women to carry their own bags instead of plastic while going out. One bag can be used for years instead of a thin plastic bag. It takes 400 years for one thin plastic bag to decompose. It is hazardous not only for the country but for the entire Earth. Not only that, we all worship cows. But many times when a cattle die, we find that a large amount of plastic is found from its stomach. Plastic has too many negative impacts on our environment," he said while addressing Gandhi Sankalp Yatra in New Delhi. The Home Minister also stated that it is the responsibility of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers to create awareness about the harmful effects of single-use plastic among the masses. While addressing a gathering, Shah also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for talking about the importance of water conservation and claimed that scores of ponds have been filled with water because of the awareness among the general public. "After becoming the Prime Minister for the second time, Modi Ji created the Water Power Ministry. It is Modi Ji, who took up the task of creating awareness about saving water. The result is that millions of pounds in the country are now filled with fresh water," he said. He also announced that the BJP leaders and workers will be going to march for 150 kilometres to propagate Gandhiji's principles to all the people 'Gandhi Sankalp Yatra'. "BJP workers across the country will travel 150 km from today to spread Gandhiji's values to the masses. We will try to spread his message from door to door. The great man who showed the path to resolve the issues of the entire world, the man who strengthed the roots of the democracy was Mahatma Gandhi," Shah said. BJP President Amit Shah today flagged off four-month-long nationwide Gandhi Sankalp Yatra from Shalimar Bagh in Delhi to propagate ideals of the 'Father of the Nation', including cleanliness, simplicity, use of Khadi and non-violence. The Union Minister also walked some distance with Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari and other prominent leaders of the BJP to participate in the event.

Shun single-use plastic, carry own bags to market, says Amit Shah at Gandhi Sankalp Yatra

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will carry out an investigation into cases of drones being used by Pakistan to smuggle arms into India through bordering areas of Punjab.

On September 22, the Punjab Police had said to have busted a terrorist module of the revived Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), which was backed by a Pakistan and Germany based terror group that was conspiring to unleash a series of terror strikes in Punjab and its adjoining states.

According to Deputy General of Police (DGP) Dinkar Gupta, the weapons were suspected to have been delivered across the India-Pakistan border from Pakistan by drones launched by the ISI and state-sponsored 'jihadi'&nbsp;and pro-Khalistani terrorist outfits working under its command.

Expressing concerns over the incident, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh had urged Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure necessary action in the 'incidents'&nbsp;of Pakistan-origin drones being used for dropping consignments of arms and ammunition in the state.

Taking to Twitter, Singh said that the drone incidents are just one of Pakistan's "sinister designs" following the abrogation of Article 370 granted to Jammu and Kashmir.

The Chief Minister also urged the Centre to direct the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Border Security Force (BSF) to launch necessary counter-measures to check any further threat from drones to the border state.&nbsp;

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will carry out an investigation into cases of drones being used by Pakistan to smuggle arms into India through bordering areas of Punjab.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will carry out an investigation into cases of drones being used by Pakistan to smuggle arms into India through bordering areas of Punjab. On September 22, the Punjab Police had said to have busted a terrorist module of the revived Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), which was backed by a Pakistan and Germany based terror group that was conspiring to unleash a series of terror strikes in Punjab and its adjoining states. According to Deputy General of Police (DGP) Dinkar Gupta, the weapons were suspected to have been delivered across the India-Pakistan border from Pakistan by drones launched by the ISI and state-sponsored 'jihadi' and pro-Khalistani terrorist outfits working under its command. Expressing concerns over the incident, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh had urged Home Minister Amit Shah to ensure necessary action in the 'incidents' of Pakistan-origin drones being used for dropping consignments of arms and ammunition in the state. Taking to Twitter, Singh said that the drone incidents are just one of Pakistan's "sinister designs" following the abrogation of Article 370 granted to Jammu and Kashmir. The Chief Minister also urged the Centre to direct the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Border Security Force (BSF) to launch necessary counter-measures to check any further threat from drones to the border state.

NIA to probe incidents of Pakistan drones smuggling arms into India

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday administered a cleanliness oath to people at an event organised in Delhi Cantonment on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-the-champion-of-non-violent-activism-253152">150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi</a>.

"I will neither pollute the environment nor let anyone do that. I will spread the message of Swachh Bharat Mission to every corner of every village and street. I will administer this oath to 100 people. The step taken by me towards cleanliness will keep my surroundings clean that would help to maintain India clean," read the oath administered to people by Singh.

Earlier in the morning, the Defence Minister paid tributes to the late leader. "We bow to him (Gandhi) for his tremendous contribution in shaping the destiny of this country. My heartfelt tributes to Bapu on his jayanti," he tweeted.

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महात्मा गांधी की १५०वीं जयंती की सभी देश वासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ। 
 
Greetings to everyone on the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. We bow to him for his tremendous contribution in shaping the destiny of this country. 
 
My heartfelt tributes to Bapu on his jayanti.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1179228560395046917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to the Father of the Nation.

Many other dignitaries including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani also reached Rajghat to pay respects to Gandhi.

Both Congress and BJP are organising a number of events throughout the country to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months.

As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will culminate on January 31, 2020. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and October 31.

Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary.

Posters, banners and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters.

PM Modi is scheduled to kick-off the program from Gujarat.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday administered a cleanliness oath to people at an event organised in Delhi Cantonment on the occasion of 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday administered a cleanliness oath to people at an event organised in Delhi Cantonment on the occasion of 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. "I will neither pollute the environment nor let anyone do that. I will spread the message of Swachh Bharat Mission to every corner of every village and street. I will administer this oath to 100 people. The step taken by me towards cleanliness will keep my surroundings clean that would help to maintain India clean," read the oath administered to people by Singh. Earlier in the morning, the Defence Minister paid tributes to the late leader. "We bow to him (Gandhi) for his tremendous contribution in shaping the destiny of this country. My heartfelt tributes to Bapu on his jayanti," he tweeted. महात्मा गांधी की १५०वीं जयंती की सभी देश वासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ। Greetings to everyone on the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. We bow to him for his tremendous contribution in shaping the destiny of this country. My heartfelt tributes to Bapu on his jayanti. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 2, 2019 × President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to the Father of the Nation. Many other dignitaries including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani also reached Rajghat to pay respects to Gandhi. Both Congress and BJP are organising a number of events throughout the country to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will culminate on January 31, 2020. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and October 31. Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. PM Modi is scheduled to kick-off the program from Gujarat.

Gandhi Jayanti: Rajnath administers cleanliness oath to people at Delhi Cantonment

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week.

India is yet to formally announce the dates of the meeting.

Meanwhile, according to reports, China will host Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on October 8, which comes ahead of the summit between Modi and Jinping.

This will be Khan's third visit to China after assuming office.

From early this year, India and China were in touch for the second informal summit between Modi and Xi.

In August, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had also visited China to prepare the ground for the second informal summit between the two leaders.

Modi and Xi had met last year in Wuhan, China, for an informal summit in order to deepen bilateral cooperation.

That meeting came following the 73-day standoff in Bhutan's Doklam plateau in 2017, which strained bilateral ties between the two countries.

At Wuhan, Modi had expressed hope that such informal summits would become a tradition between the two countries. 
&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week. India is yet to formally announce the dates of the meeting. Meanwhile, according to reports, China will host Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on October 8, which comes ahead of the summit between Modi and Jinping. This will be Khan's third visit to China after assuming office. From early this year, India and China were in touch for the second informal summit between Modi and Xi. In August, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had also visited China to prepare the ground for the second informal summit between the two leaders. Modi and Xi had met last year in Wuhan, China, for an informal summit in order to deepen bilateral cooperation. That meeting came following the 73-day standoff in Bhutan's Doklam plateau in 2017, which strained bilateral ties between the two countries. At Wuhan, Modi had expressed hope that such informal summits would become a tradition between the two countries.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Chennai for second informal summit with PM Modi

Traders, shopkeepers, and others in India have started looking for an alternative to plastic amid the anticipation of a blanket ban on single-use plastic across the country.

Traders, shopkeepers look for alternative as India begins war on plastic

A Tribute To India's Second PM Lal Bahadur Shastri On The Occasion Of His 115th Birth Anniversary Lal Bahadur Shastri, freedom fighter and India's second Prime Minister is someone who has contributed heavily to India's democracy, pluralism and economic development. This report highlights the contribution of Lal Bahadur Shastri on the occasion of his 115th birth anniversary

Gravitas: Celebrating India's Second Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri

Mahatma Gandhi Continues To Inspire Leaders & Freedom Movements Around The World Mahatma Gandhi is one of history's most transformative and inspirational figures. The impact of his philosophy is not only limited to the realm of politics. Here are some of the greatest thinkers and innovators who have been inspired by Gandhian ideology of non-violent resistance to oppression.

Gravitas: Mahatma Gandhi: An Indian Who Belongs To The Entire World

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will embark on a four-day visit to India beginning from Thursday with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries.

Hasina will visit India from October 3 to 6 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During the visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and hold bilateral discussions with Modi on October 5.

This will be Hasina's first visit to India since the completion of the elections in Bangladesh and India, a press statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

"Apart from a number of agreements that are to be exchanged between the sides during the visit, the two Prime Ministers will also jointly inaugurate three bilateral projects via video link," the statement said.

Hasina will also participate as the chief guest at the India Economic Summit organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on October 3 and 4.

On September 28, Hasina and Modi had met on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York where the two leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries.

During Hasina's visit to India, both countries are expected to review the Rohingya and Teesta river water sharing issues, apart from inking agreements in various sectors.

"Prime Minister Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi may definitely discuss different issues, including the Teesta as well as Rohingyas," The Dhaka Tribune quoted Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Syed Muazzem Ali, as saying.

On the sidelines of the India Economic Forum meet, the two countries are likely to sign a number of MoUs in different areas, including connectivity, culture, technical cooperation and trade and investment, Muazzem said.

"It is so far confirmed that seven to eight MoUs are to be signed, mostly on connectivity, cultural and technical cooperation, and trade and investment after the bilateral meeting of the two prime ministers on October 5," he said.

However, the High Commissioner also stated that the number of MoUs could be as high as 10.Muazzem further remarked that the Bangladesh Prime Minister would also seek more investments from major Indian investors.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will embark on a four-day visit to India beginning from Thursday with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will embark on a four-day visit to India beginning from Thursday with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries. Hasina will visit India from October 3 to 6 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and hold bilateral discussions with Modi on October 5. This will be Hasina's first visit to India since the completion of the elections in Bangladesh and India, a press statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. "Apart from a number of agreements that are to be exchanged between the sides during the visit, the two Prime Ministers will also jointly inaugurate three bilateral projects via video link," the statement said. Hasina will also participate as the chief guest at the India Economic Summit organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on October 3 and 4. On September 28, Hasina and Modi had met on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York where the two leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries. During Hasina's visit to India, both countries are expected to review the Rohingya and Teesta river water sharing issues, apart from inking agreements in various sectors. "Prime Minister Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi may definitely discuss different issues, including the Teesta as well as Rohingyas," The Dhaka Tribune quoted Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Syed Muazzem Ali, as saying. On the sidelines of the India Economic Forum meet, the two countries are likely to sign a number of MoUs in different areas, including connectivity, culture, technical cooperation and trade and investment, Muazzem said. "It is so far confirmed that seven to eight MoUs are to be signed, mostly on connectivity, cultural and technical cooperation, and trade and investment after the bilateral meeting of the two prime ministers on October 5," he said. However, the High Commissioner also stated that the number of MoUs could be as high as 10.Muazzem further remarked that the Bangladesh Prime Minister would also seek more investments from major Indian investors.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina to arrive in India on 4-day visit on Thursday

The impending introduction of Juul<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/e-cigarette-ban-aimed-at-saving-youth-from-new-form-of-intoxication-pm-modi-252666"> e-cigarettes</a> in India was a factor in the government's decision to ban the sale of vaping products, a top government lawyer said in court on Tuesday while defending the order.

The government took the step last month, warning Indians of a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-may-roll-out-e-cigarette-rules-amid-global-vaping-backlash-251748"> vaping "epidemic"</a> among young people and dashing plans of companies such as US-based Juul Labs Inc and Philip Morris International&nbsp;to sell products in the country.

Juul had aimed to start offering e-cigarettes in India in late 2019 and had hired several senior executives in recent months, Reuters has previously reported.

"What was impending was a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-bans-e-cigarettes-citing-health-hazards-250374"> nationwide launch of Juul</a> ... it (the government) chose to act immediately," additional solicitor general Aman Lekhi told the court in Kolkata.

Lekhi was defending two challenges against the ban that have been filed by e-cigarettes importer Plume Vapour and another company Woke Vapors.

He told the judge the cases were a "proxy for Juul" but did not elaborate. He later told Reuters, "We feel they are a proxy for Juul, there's a very real possibility".

A Juul spokesman declined to comment on the government's remarks, while Plume Vapour did not respond to a request for comment.

Woke Vapors said in a statement it will continue to work towards an outcome whereby e-cigarettes are regulated, not prohibited.

Two senior Juul executives were in the courtroom, seated for most of the two-hour hearing next to the federal health ministry's bureaucrat who oversees tobacco control, Vikas Sheel.

Juul Labs, in which tobacco company Altria Group Inc owns a 35% stake, is facing increased scrutiny in the United States, its home market, as teen use of e-cigarettes surges.

Even before the ban was announced, the Indian government had said products such as Juul were harmful and could potentially undermine its tobacco control efforts. More than 900,000 people die each year in India because of tobacco-related illnesses.

However, India has 106 million adult smokers, second only to China, making it a lucrative potential market for companies selling both tobacco and vaping products.

Plume Vapour counsel told the court that "relative harm" from e-cigarettes was less than from tobacco products and the government was scaring consumers by banning the product.

The government's counsel Lekhi said e-cigarette's novelty and attractiveness pose a public health danger, and the product needs to be nipped in the bud.

"You don't want a new substance to cause addiction," he told the court.

The court on Tuesday did not put the ban order on hold, but as a temporary relief revoked the current requirement for sellers to submit their existing stock of e-cigarettes to authorities for disposal.

The cases, a legal test of the government's ban order, will next be heard on November&nbsp;14.

The impending introduction of Juul e-cigarettes in India was a factor in the government's decision to ban the sale of vaping products, a top government lawyer said in court on Tuesday while defending the order.

The impending introduction of Juul e-cigarettes in India was a factor in the government's decision to ban the sale of vaping products, a top government lawyer said in court on Tuesday while defending the order. The government took the step last month, warning Indians of a vaping "epidemic" among young people and dashing plans of companies such as US-based Juul Labs Inc and Philip Morris International to sell products in the country. Juul had aimed to start offering e-cigarettes in India in late 2019 and had hired several senior executives in recent months, Reuters has previously reported. "What was impending was a nationwide launch of Juul ... it (the government) chose to act immediately," additional solicitor general Aman Lekhi told the court in Kolkata. Lekhi was defending two challenges against the ban that have been filed by e-cigarettes importer Plume Vapour and another company Woke Vapors. He told the judge the cases were a "proxy for Juul" but did not elaborate. He later told Reuters, "We feel they are a proxy for Juul, there's a very real possibility". A Juul spokesman declined to comment on the government's remarks, while Plume Vapour did not respond to a request for comment. Woke Vapors said in a statement it will continue to work towards an outcome whereby e-cigarettes are regulated, not prohibited. Two senior Juul executives were in the courtroom, seated for most of the two-hour hearing next to the federal health ministry's bureaucrat who oversees tobacco control, Vikas Sheel. Juul Labs, in which tobacco company Altria Group Inc owns a 35% stake, is facing increased scrutiny in the United States, its home market, as teen use of e-cigarettes surges. Even before the ban was announced, the Indian government had said products such as Juul were harmful and could potentially undermine its tobacco control efforts. More than 900,000 people die each year in India because of tobacco-related illnesses. However, India has 106 million adult smokers, second only to China, making it a lucrative potential market for companies selling both tobacco and vaping products. Plume Vapour counsel told the court that "relative harm" from e-cigarettes was less than from tobacco products and the government was scaring consumers by banning the product. The government's counsel Lekhi said e-cigarette's novelty and attractiveness pose a public health danger, and the product needs to be nipped in the bud. "You don't want a new substance to cause addiction," he told the court. The court on Tuesday did not put the ban order on hold, but as a temporary relief revoked the current requirement for sellers to submit their existing stock of e-cigarettes to authorities for disposal. The cases, a legal test of the government's ban order, will next be heard on November 14.

India defends e-cigarette ban in court with attack on Juul

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gandhi-is-today-will-be-there-tomorrow-gandhi-is-the-solution-to-all-problems-pm-modi-in-ahmedabad-253321">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Wednesday arrived at the Sabarmati riverfront in Gujarat on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi.

"Bapu's birth anniversary is being celebrated by the entire world," the prime minister stated adding that, "a few days ago United Nations (UN) released a postal stamp to make this occasion memorable, now commemorative stamps and coins have also been released here today".

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PM Modi: Sanitation, conservation of environment and animals, all these things were dear to Gandhi ji. Plastic is a major threat to all of them. So, we have to achieve the goal to eradicate 'single use plastic' from the country by the year 2022. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SwachhBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SwachhBharat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GandhiAt150?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GandhiAt150</a> <a href="https://t.co/4Bru8NeMgr">pic.twitter.com/4Bru8NeMgr</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1179413537761964032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister was speaking during the 'Swachh Bharat Diwas' programme in Ahmedabad and announced country's rural areas 'open defecation free'.&nbsp;

"Today the whole world is appreciating and awarding us. Providing toilets to more than 60 crore people in 60 months, building more than 11 crore toilets, the whole world is amazed by this," he said.&nbsp;

The prime minister said that among various things, "sanitation, conservation of environment and animals" were dear to Gandhiji. He stressed on the need to shun single-use plastic. "Plastic is a major threat to all of them. So, we have to achieve the goal to eradicate 'single-use plastic' from the country by the year 2022," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 'Swachh Bharat Diwas' programme in Ahmedabad: Today rural India and its villages have declared themselves 'open defecation free'. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GandhiAt150?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GandhiAt150</a> <a href="https://t.co/IDxNIkBJVL">https://t.co/IDxNIkBJVL</a> <a href="https://t.co/OUNRy8X987">pic.twitter.com/OUNRy8X987</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1179411454648311812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Modi released commemorative Rs 150 coins, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. The event at Sabarmati riverfront in Ahmedabad was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived in Ahmedabad in Gujarat to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi.

On the occasion, the prime minister said that "India's stature is rising across the globe".

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"I hope that India can lead the way and bring about a change in the world, India is capable of that," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, PM Modi paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived at the Sabarmati riverfront in Gujarat on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived at the Sabarmati riverfront in Gujarat on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi. "Bapu's birth anniversary is being celebrated by the entire world," the prime minister stated adding that, "a few days ago United Nations (UN) released a postal stamp to make this occasion memorable, now commemorative stamps and coins have also been released here today". PM Modi: Sanitation, conservation of environment and animals, all these things were dear to Gandhi ji. Plastic is a major threat to all of them. So, we have to achieve the goal to eradicate 'single use plastic' from the country by the year 2022. #SwachhBharat #GandhiAt150 pic.twitter.com/4Bru8NeMgr — ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019 × The prime minister was speaking during the 'Swachh Bharat Diwas' programme in Ahmedabad and announced country's rural areas 'open defecation free'. "Today the whole world is appreciating and awarding us. Providing toilets to more than 60 crore people in 60 months, building more than 11 crore toilets, the whole world is amazed by this," he said. The prime minister said that among various things, "sanitation, conservation of environment and animals" were dear to Gandhiji. He stressed on the need to shun single-use plastic. "Plastic is a major threat to all of them. So, we have to achieve the goal to eradicate 'single-use plastic' from the country by the year 2022," the prime minister said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 'Swachh Bharat Diwas' programme in Ahmedabad: Today rural India and its villages have declared themselves 'open defecation free'. #GandhiAt150 https://t.co/IDxNIkBJVL pic.twitter.com/OUNRy8X987 — ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2019 × Prime Minister Modi released commemorative Rs 150 coins, on the occasion of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. The event at Sabarmati riverfront in Ahmedabad was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday arrived in Ahmedabad in Gujarat to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi. On the occasion, the prime minister said that "India's stature is rising across the globe". × "I hope that India can lead the way and bring about a change in the world, India is capable of that," PM Modi said. Earlier in the day, PM Modi paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary.

Need to eradicate single-use plastic from the country by 2022: PM Modi in Ahmedabad 

Numerous WhatsApp messaging centres, groups in Pakistan are spreading authentic-looking misinformation on Kashmir but we must only forward what is authentic and factual, said former Army Lt General Arun Kumar Sahni.

Sahni was speaking while addressing a gathering of engineering college students at a cybersecurity awareness campaign in Chennai. “As our agencies continuously block these groups and pages, others crop up to spread this fake propaganda”, he said.&nbsp;

Addressing over 1,400 students of the Sairam Engineering College, the former commander-in-chief of Indian Army said, "in the coming time, cyber warriors will be the people in academia, corporate world and not those who are in uniform".&nbsp;

"We live in a cyber era where a phishing attack can succeed in less than 4 minutes and 85 per cent of the breaches happen due to ten well-known vulnerabilities. In perception battles that are fought today, public opinion can be shaped without physical contact between forces,” Sahni said.

He highlighted the fact that it could take up to 100 days for developed countries to detect a system breach whereas it would take developing countries over a year for the same. Sahni emphasized on the need for the government to formulate more specific rules, regulation and legal provisions for the cyber domain. “We must be careful of the footprints we leave behind and ensure that they are not used against us,” he told students.&nbsp;

Speaking at the event, cyber-security expert Rakshit Tandon cited the importance of Sections 66, 67 of the IT Act and urged the students to understand what constitutes cybercrime.&nbsp;

“In the year 2016, over 5,000 people were arrested for cybercrime of which 3,000 were college students and 98 were school children. Child pornography, hacking, online trafficking, online financial frauds, among others include cyber offences that are punishable in India,” Tandon said.&nbsp;

He cited a recent case wherein a woman was duped, 1.5 lakh Rs siphoned off her bank account within minutes after she called a number that appeared to be of Google Pay customer service. “She was instructed by the criminal to install the Anydesk application for better assistance. Then the hacker activated the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and transferred all the money in less than 30 seconds. Apps such as Anydesk and Teamviewer can be used by hackers to take control of the computers or phones of unassuming users. These days hackers target phones due to the allure of digital wallets, they can also read our SMS by taking control of applications that have permission to read messages,” Tandon shared.

Cybersecurity author Nipun Jaswal demonstrated how a micro-controller placed in a USB fan or an interface device can be used as a keyboard to hack a computer, irrespective of its operating system. “There is a perception that a particular brand and their operating system is more secure but using certain methods it takes only a few seconds to break into a system, with or without anti-virus software. There are only two kinds of people - the ones who know they are hacked and the ones who don’t know they are hacked,” Jaswal noted.&nbsp;

The speakers also briefed the students on precautions such as two-factor authentication, regulating the permissions for all applications, use of Yubikey et cetera. They also informed the students about government platforms such as Cyberdost, cybercrime.gov where one could get tips to stay safer in the online world and post complaints whenever the need arises.

Numerous WhatsApp messaging centres, groups in Pakistan are spreading authentic-looking misinformation on Kashmir but we must only forward what is authentic and factual, said former Army Lt General Arun Kumar Sahni.

Numerous WhatsApp messaging centres, groups in Pakistan are spreading authentic-looking misinformation on Kashmir but we must only forward what is authentic and factual, said former Army Lt General Arun Kumar Sahni. Sahni was speaking while addressing a gathering of engineering college students at a cybersecurity awareness campaign in Chennai. “As our agencies continuously block these groups and pages, others crop up to spread this fake propaganda”, he said. Addressing over 1,400 students of the Sairam Engineering College, the former commander-in-chief of Indian Army said, "in the coming time, cyber warriors will be the people in academia, corporate world and not those who are in uniform". "We live in a cyber era where a phishing attack can succeed in less than 4 minutes and 85 per cent of the breaches happen due to ten well-known vulnerabilities. In perception battles that are fought today, public opinion can be shaped without physical contact between forces,” Sahni said. He highlighted the fact that it could take up to 100 days for developed countries to detect a system breach whereas it would take developing countries over a year for the same. Sahni emphasized on the need for the government to formulate more specific rules, regulation and legal provisions for the cyber domain. “We must be careful of the footprints we leave behind and ensure that they are not used against us,” he told students. Speaking at the event, cyber-security expert Rakshit Tandon cited the importance of Sections 66, 67 of the IT Act and urged the students to understand what constitutes cybercrime. “In the year 2016, over 5,000 people were arrested for cybercrime of which 3,000 were college students and 98 were school children. Child pornography, hacking, online trafficking, online financial frauds, among others include cyber offences that are punishable in India,” Tandon said. He cited a recent case wherein a woman was duped, 1.5 lakh Rs siphoned off her bank account within minutes after she called a number that appeared to be of Google Pay customer service. “She was instructed by the criminal to install the Anydesk application for better assistance. Then the hacker activated the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and transferred all the money in less than 30 seconds. Apps such as Anydesk and Teamviewer can be used by hackers to take control of the computers or phones of unassuming users. These days hackers target phones due to the allure of digital wallets, they can also read our SMS by taking control of applications that have permission to read messages,” Tandon shared. Cybersecurity author Nipun Jaswal demonstrated how a micro-controller placed in a USB fan or an interface device can be used as a keyboard to hack a computer, irrespective of its operating system. “There is a perception that a particular brand and their operating system is more secure but using certain methods it takes only a few seconds to break into a system, with or without anti-virus software. There are only two kinds of people - the ones who know they are hacked and the ones who don’t know they are hacked,” Jaswal noted. The speakers also briefed the students on precautions such as two-factor authentication, regulating the permissions for all applications, use of Yubikey et cetera. They also informed the students about government platforms such as Cyberdost, cybercrime.gov where one could get tips to stay safer in the online world and post complaints whenever the need arises.

Numerous WhatsApp messaging centres in Pakistan spreading lies on Kashmir: Former Army Lt General AK Sahni

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events.&nbsp;

In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. Deputy Chairman of State Duma Sergey Neverov along with Indian Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma were present on the occasion.

Bala Venkatesh Varma thanked the State Duma for the opportunity to hold such an exhibition, saying ''Leo Tolstoy had a huge influence on Mahatma Gandhi, and their friendship became a symbol of friendship between the two great peoples of India and Russia.”

Mahatma Gandhi considered Leo Tolstoy as one of the most important people who influenced his life.

In Jeddah, Consul General Noor Rahman Sheikh led the celebrations by paying tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi. Padmashree Nouf Marwaai, the first female yoga practitioner of Saudi Arabia was also present during the occasion.

A big event was organised by the Indian mission in Guyana involving the prime minister, two ex-presidents of the country by the Indian mission led by envoy Dr K J Srinivasa.

The iconic Burj Khalifa was lit up with a special LED projection for one hour to pay tribute to the father of the nation.

In the neighbourhood, celebrations happened in all capitals.&nbsp;

On the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian Embassy in Kabul organised a ''Swachhta Hi Seva'' campaign. Ambassador Vinay Kumar and Embassy Officials did Shramdaan to promote Gandhiji’s idea of cleanliness and environmental protection. Afghan Post in collaboration with the Indian Embassy issued a commemorative stamp. Afghan Minister for Communication and Information Technology Fahim Hashimy and Ambassador Kumar jointly unveiled the stamp in the Embassy.

In Sri Lanka, a special programme was held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo in which Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena and High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu participated. Gandhi Bust made of bronze was unveiled at Temple Tree, the official residence of Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe.

In Bangladesh, Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni was the chief guest at the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at the High Commission in Dhaka. Indian high commissioner Riva Ganguly Das handed over the book ''Vaishnav Jan Toh Tene Kahiye'' to Rabindra Sangeet singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya.

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Indian envoy to Nepal Manjeev Puri led the Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary celebrations.

A “Padd Yatra” was organised in Yangon, Myanmar on Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti. The event was inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Saurabh Kumar and Yangon Cheif Minister U Phyo Min Thein.

Celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's birthday was organized at the Sari Mutiara University by the Indian mission in Indonesia. Indian envoy to Indonesia Pradeep Kumar Rawat inaugurated a bronze bust of Mahatma Gandhi which is placed prominently in the middle of this renowned University.

Central Asia also saw celebrations. Indian envoy to Kyrgyzstan Amitabh Dimri led the celebrations in capital Bishkek. A special programme was organised at the University of Central Asia in Bishkek. Indian mission in Kazakhstan organised an innovative way of remembering Gandhi by organising a painting competition in schools in which themes were Mahatma Gandhi, World Peace, India etc. Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Prabhat Kumar distributed prizes to winners of Painting Competition and led the celebrations.

In South Africa, from where Gandhi began his journey as a mass leader program was organised at the constitution hill in Johannesburg. The area houses the prison complex were Gandhi was jailed but now houses the supreme constitutional court of South Africa.

Europe was abuzz with several activities.

London saw the celebration at Tavistock Place. Indian envoy Ruchi Ghanashyam along with Indian diaspora participated in full strength. Senior Deputy Speaker of UK House of Lords Lord McFall, Baroness Blackstone paid tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at parliament square in front of the British Parliament. The event was organised by Lord Meghnad Desai.

Indian Ambassador to Netherlands Venu Rajamony led the Gandhi March for Non-Violence through capital The Hague to highlight the importance of the message of non-violence. Around 300 school children and 150 adults took part in the march.

In Geneva, a ‘Gandhi Room’ has been set up in the Permanent Mission of India with an exhibit of photographs and documentaries depicting the life and journey of Mahatma Gandhi.

New Zealand was one of the first countries to celebrate Gandhi's birth anniversary. Indian envoy Muktesh Pardeshi led the celebration and said, "the presence of people from all walks of life at events held in Wellington underline the relevance of Gandhi Ji's philosophy and values".

In the United States, a major programme on Mahatma Gandhi will be celebrated in the historic Library of Congress with the speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar taking part in the ceremony.

Palestine, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Russia and Turkey issued a commemorative stamp on Mahatma Gandhi.

October 2 is the international day of non-violence and at the United Nations headquarters an event took place on "climate action: Gandhian way".

''His vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the United Nations for mutual understanding, equality, sustainable development, the empowerment of young people, and the peaceful resolution of disputes”, Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message commemorating the day.

Last week at the united nations PM Modi inaugurated Gandhi Solar Park on the roof of the world body and delivered a lecture on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World.

PM Modi in his address talked about the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to the cause of greater human freedom in the 20th century.

The prime minister said, "Mahatma Gandhi never held positions of power. Yet, he motivates people around the world. Millions of people, several nations drew strength from his ideals and attained freedom."

Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, Jamaica's PM Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern participated in the event.

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events. In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy.

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events. In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. Deputy Chairman of State Duma Sergey Neverov along with Indian Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma were present on the occasion. Bala Venkatesh Varma thanked the State Duma for the opportunity to hold such an exhibition, saying ''Leo Tolstoy had a huge influence on Mahatma Gandhi, and their friendship became a symbol of friendship between the two great peoples of India and Russia.” Mahatma Gandhi considered Leo Tolstoy as one of the most important people who influenced his life. In Jeddah, Consul General Noor Rahman Sheikh led the celebrations by paying tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi. Padmashree Nouf Marwaai, the first female yoga practitioner of Saudi Arabia was also present during the occasion. A big event was organised by the Indian mission in Guyana involving the prime minister, two ex-presidents of the country by the Indian mission led by envoy Dr K J Srinivasa. The iconic Burj Khalifa was lit up with a special LED projection for one hour to pay tribute to the father of the nation. In the neighbourhood, celebrations happened in all capitals. On the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian Embassy in Kabul organised a ''Swachhta Hi Seva'' campaign. Ambassador Vinay Kumar and Embassy Officials did Shramdaan to promote Gandhiji’s idea of cleanliness and environmental protection. Afghan Post in collaboration with the Indian Embassy issued a commemorative stamp. Afghan Minister for Communication and Information Technology Fahim Hashimy and Ambassador Kumar jointly unveiled the stamp in the Embassy. In Sri Lanka, a special programme was held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo in which Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena and High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu participated. Gandhi Bust made of bronze was unveiled at Temple Tree, the official residence of Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. In Bangladesh, Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni was the chief guest at the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at the High Commission in Dhaka. Indian high commissioner Riva Ganguly Das handed over the book ''Vaishnav Jan Toh Tene Kahiye'' to Rabindra Sangeet singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya. Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Indian envoy to Nepal Manjeev Puri led the Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary celebrations. A “Padd Yatra” was organised in Yangon, Myanmar on Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti. The event was inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Saurabh Kumar and Yangon Cheif Minister U Phyo Min Thein. Celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's birthday was organized at the Sari Mutiara University by the Indian mission in Indonesia. Indian envoy to Indonesia Pradeep Kumar Rawat inaugurated a bronze bust of Mahatma Gandhi which is placed prominently in the middle of this renowned University. Central Asia also saw celebrations. Indian envoy to Kyrgyzstan Amitabh Dimri led the celebrations in capital Bishkek. A special programme was organised at the University of Central Asia in Bishkek. Indian mission in Kazakhstan organised an innovative way of remembering Gandhi by organising a painting competition in schools in which themes were Mahatma Gandhi, World Peace, India etc. Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Prabhat Kumar distributed prizes to winners of Painting Competition and led the celebrations. In South Africa, from where Gandhi began his journey as a mass leader program was organised at the constitution hill in Johannesburg. The area houses the prison complex were Gandhi was jailed but now houses the supreme constitutional court of South Africa. Europe was abuzz with several activities. London saw the celebration at Tavistock Place. Indian envoy Ruchi Ghanashyam along with Indian diaspora participated in full strength. Senior Deputy Speaker of UK House of Lords Lord McFall, Baroness Blackstone paid tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at parliament square in front of the British Parliament. The event was organised by Lord Meghnad Desai. Indian Ambassador to Netherlands Venu Rajamony led the Gandhi March for Non-Violence through capital The Hague to highlight the importance of the message of non-violence. Around 300 school children and 150 adults took part in the march. In Geneva, a ‘Gandhi Room’ has been set up in the Permanent Mission of India with an exhibit of photographs and documentaries depicting the life and journey of Mahatma Gandhi. New Zealand was one of the first countries to celebrate Gandhi's birth anniversary. Indian envoy Muktesh Pardeshi led the celebration and said, "the presence of people from all walks of life at events held in Wellington underline the relevance of Gandhi Ji's philosophy and values". In the United States, a major programme on Mahatma Gandhi will be celebrated in the historic Library of Congress with the speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar taking part in the ceremony. Palestine, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Russia and Turkey issued a commemorative stamp on Mahatma Gandhi. October 2 is the international day of non-violence and at the United Nations headquarters an event took place on "climate action: Gandhian way". ''His vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the United Nations for mutual understanding, equality, sustainable development, the empowerment of young people, and the peaceful resolution of disputes”, Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message commemorating the day. Last week at the united nations PM Modi inaugurated Gandhi Solar Park on the roof of the world body and delivered a lecture on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World. PM Modi in his address talked about the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to the cause of greater human freedom in the 20th century. The prime minister said, "Mahatma Gandhi never held positions of power. Yet, he motivates people around the world. Millions of people, several nations drew strength from his ideals and attained freedom." Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, Jamaica's PM Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern participated in the event.

From Moscow to London, Washington to Kabul: How global capitals went abuzz on Gandhi Jayanti

India has held off imposing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-upcoming-plastic-ban-will-bring-cheer-to-many-despair-to-some-252781">blanket ban on single-use plastics to combat pollution</a>, officials said on Tuesday, a measure seen as too disruptive for the industry at a time when it is coping with an economic slowdown and job losses.

The plan was for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to outlaw six items on Wednesday, the 150th anniversary of the birth of independence leader Mahatma&nbsp;Gandhi, as part of a broader campaign to rid India of single-use plastics by 2022.

But two officials said there would be no immediate move to ban plastic bags, cups, plates, small bottles, straws and certain types of sachets and instead the government would try to curb their use.

For now, the government will ask states to enforce existing rules against storing, manufacturing and using some single-use plastic products such as polythene bags and styrofoam, Chandra Kishore Mishra, the top bureaucrat at the ministry of environment, told Reuters.

"There is no new ban order being issued," Mishra said. "Now, it's a question of telling people about the ill-effects of plastic, of collecting and sending for recycling so people don't litter", he added.

The government's proposed countrywide ban had dismayed consumer firms, which use plastic in packaging for everything from sodas and biscuits to ketchup and shampoo.

The Confederation of Indian Industry, a lobby group, said the move had become an existential issue for several economic sectors because alternatives were not immediately available.

It said small-sized plastic bottles used for pharmaceutical or health products should be exempted as there is no alternative available. Sachets made from so-called multi-layered packaging should also not be banned, as that could disrupt supplies of products like biscuits, salt and milk, the confederation said.

"There was a conscious decision within the government not to hit businesses hard for now and discourage the use of plastic only on a voluntary basis," said an official working on policy. He declined to be identified in line with government rules.

Plastic waste is at epidemic proportions in the world's oceans with an estimated 100 million tonnes dumped there to date, according to the United Nations. Scientists have found large amounts of microplastic in the intestines of deep-dwelling ocean mammals like whales.

India, which uses about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-running-a-big-campaign-to-free-the-country-of-single-use-plastic-pm-modi-at-unga-252498">14 million tonnes of plastic annually</a>, lacks an organised system for management of plastic waste, leading to widespread littering.

"The toxins, poisons and persistent pollutants present in some of these plastic products leach and enter human bodies where they cause several diseases, including cancer," said Chitra Mukherjee, head of advocacy and policy at Delhi-based Chintan Environmental Research and Action Group.

India has held off imposing a blanket ban on single-use plastics to combat pollution, officials said on Tuesday, a measure seen as too disruptive for the industry at a time when it is coping with an economic slowdown and job losses.

India has held off imposing a blanket ban on single-use plastics to combat pollution, officials said on Tuesday, a measure seen as too disruptive for the industry at a time when it is coping with an economic slowdown and job losses. The plan was for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to outlaw six items on Wednesday, the 150th anniversary of the birth of independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, as part of a broader campaign to rid India of single-use plastics by 2022. But two officials said there would be no immediate move to ban plastic bags, cups, plates, small bottles, straws and certain types of sachets and instead the government would try to curb their use. For now, the government will ask states to enforce existing rules against storing, manufacturing and using some single-use plastic products such as polythene bags and styrofoam, Chandra Kishore Mishra, the top bureaucrat at the ministry of environment, told Reuters. "There is no new ban order being issued," Mishra said. "Now, it's a question of telling people about the ill-effects of plastic, of collecting and sending for recycling so people don't litter", he added. The government's proposed countrywide ban had dismayed consumer firms, which use plastic in packaging for everything from sodas and biscuits to ketchup and shampoo. The Confederation of Indian Industry, a lobby group, said the move had become an existential issue for several economic sectors because alternatives were not immediately available. It said small-sized plastic bottles used for pharmaceutical or health products should be exempted as there is no alternative available. Sachets made from so-called multi-layered packaging should also not be banned, as that could disrupt supplies of products like biscuits, salt and milk, the confederation said. "There was a conscious decision within the government not to hit businesses hard for now and discourage the use of plastic only on a voluntary basis," said an official working on policy. He declined to be identified in line with government rules. Plastic waste is at epidemic proportions in the world's oceans with an estimated 100 million tonnes dumped there to date, according to the United Nations. Scientists have found large amounts of microplastic in the intestines of deep-dwelling ocean mammals like whales. India, which uses about 14 million tonnes of plastic annually, lacks an organised system for management of plastic waste, leading to widespread littering. "The toxins, poisons and persistent pollutants present in some of these plastic products leach and enter human bodies where they cause several diseases, including cancer," said Chitra Mukherjee, head of advocacy and policy at Delhi-based Chintan Environmental Research and Action Group.

India delays plan to ban single-use plastic countrywide

India is celebrating&nbsp;the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-celebrates-150th-birth-anniversary-of-mahatma-gandhi-today-253161">150th birth anniversary</a> of legendary freedom movement leader and 'Father of the Nation', Mahatma Gandhi, on Wednesday.

150 years ago, the world was blessed with not just a leader, but a man who changed the global political discourse single-handedly, and whose legacy continues to shape the route undertaken by major leaders and activists.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born in 1869 in Porbandar in India's western state of Gujarat. Born to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tributes-paid-to-mahatma-gandhi-at-unhrc-to-mark-his-150th-birth-anniversary-252054">Karamchand Gandhi</a>, the Chief Minister of Porbandar, and Putlibai. Later, he was revered as Mahatma which meant 'a great soul'.&nbsp;

Watch: Celebrating the Mahatma

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A lawyer by profession, he led the struggle for India's independence from the British rule by using non-violent means.&nbsp;

Even though his real activism began in India, Gandhi started his public life in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-showing-the-way-on-climate-change-south-african-foreign-minister-calls-gandhi-a-hero-252337">South Africa</a>, ruled by the British, who treated Indians and the native Africans as slaves.

Watch: United Nations pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi

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He organised the Natal Indian Congress in South Africa and laid the foundation for the Civil Disobedience Movement, which he used effectively to win freedom for India.

Return to India

Gandhi came back to India in 1914 and fought against the British rule through a series of non-violent protests. India became independent from Britain on August 15, 1947.

After India's independence, there were widespread communal riots across the subcontinent.

Gandhi went on a hunger strike against the riots and withdrew the strike only after assurance from leaders of both the Hindu and Muslim communities.

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/photos/150th-gandhi-jayanti-7-movies-that-revive-our-faith-in-bapus-ideologies-252967">In pics: 150th Gandhi Jayanti - 7 movies that revive our faith in Bapu’s ideologies</a>

The assassination that changed India

On January 30, 1948, while he was going to attend a a prayer meeting at a temple in New Delhi, Gandhi was shot dead by Nathuram Godse.

Gandhi was also against aggression and propagated 'ahimsa' or non-violence; in fact his non-violent movement is said to have inspired American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., South African anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, and exiled Tibetan leader the Dalai Lama.

Gandhi's ideologies still continue to be followed the world over. His statues can be found across India and nearly every town has at least one street named after him.

The Indian government has planned many events to commemorate Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, who is revered immensely not only in India, but globally.

(With inputs from Reuters)

India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of legendary freedom movement leader and 'Father of the Nation', Mahatma Gandhi, on Wednesday. 150 years ago, the world was blessed with not just a leader, but a man who changed the global political discourse single-handedly, and whose legacy continues to shape the route undertaken by major leaders and activists.

India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of legendary freedom movement leader and 'Father of the Nation', Mahatma Gandhi, on Wednesday. 150 years ago, the world was blessed with not just a leader, but a man who changed the global political discourse single-handedly, and whose legacy continues to shape the route undertaken by major leaders and activists. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born in 1869 in Porbandar in India's western state of Gujarat. Born to Karamchand Gandhi, the Chief Minister of Porbandar, and Putlibai. Later, he was revered as Mahatma which meant 'a great soul'. Watch: Celebrating the Mahatma A lawyer by profession, he led the struggle for India's independence from the British rule by using non-violent means. Even though his real activism began in India, Gandhi started his public life in South Africa, ruled by the British, who treated Indians and the native Africans as slaves. Watch: United Nations pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi × He organised the Natal Indian Congress in South Africa and laid the foundation for the Civil Disobedience Movement, which he used effectively to win freedom for India. Return to India Gandhi came back to India in 1914 and fought against the British rule through a series of non-violent protests. India became independent from Britain on August 15, 1947. After India's independence, there were widespread communal riots across the subcontinent. Gandhi went on a hunger strike against the riots and withdrew the strike only after assurance from leaders of both the Hindu and Muslim communities. In pics: 150th Gandhi Jayanti - 7 movies that revive our faith in Bapu’s ideologies The assassination that changed India On January 30, 1948, while he was going to attend a a prayer meeting at a temple in New Delhi, Gandhi was shot dead by Nathuram Godse. Gandhi was also against aggression and propagated 'ahimsa' or non-violence; in fact his non-violent movement is said to have inspired American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., South African anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, and exiled Tibetan leader the Dalai Lama. Gandhi's ideologies still continue to be followed the world over. His statues can be found across India and nearly every town has at least one street named after him. The Indian government has planned many events to commemorate Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, who is revered immensely not only in India, but globally. (With inputs from Reuters)

Mahatma Gandhi: The champion of non-violent activism

BJP working president JP Nadda on Wednesday said Mahatma Gandhi's thoughts and ideals influenced several leaders to fight against injustice and racism across the world.

Speaking at a programme to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Gandhi, Nadda said, "Martin Luther King Jr raised issue the of racism, he was influenced by the thoughts of Gandhi ji.

Nelson Mandela fought against racism. He fought for freedom in South Africa and his 'Satyagraha'&nbsp;(a policy of passive political resistance) was also inspired by Gandhi ji."

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Bapu, hailing his everlasting contribution to humanity.

"Tributes to beloved Bapu! On Gandhi150, we express gratitude to Mahatma Gandhi for his everlasting contribution to humanity. We pledge to continue working hard to realise his dreams and create a better planet," Modi wrote on Twitter.

BJP president Amit Shah flagged off the party's "Gandhi Sankalp Yatra" from Shalimar Bagh area here to propagate the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, including cleanliness, use of khadi, non-violence, etc.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

BJP working president JP Nadda on Wednesday said Mahatma Gandhi's thoughts and ideals influenced several leaders to fight against injustice and racism across the world.

BJP working president JP Nadda on Wednesday said Mahatma Gandhi's thoughts and ideals influenced several leaders to fight against injustice and racism across the world. Speaking at a programme to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Gandhi, Nadda said, "Martin Luther King Jr raised issue the of racism, he was influenced by the thoughts of Gandhi ji. Nelson Mandela fought against racism. He fought for freedom in South Africa and his 'Satyagraha' (a policy of passive political resistance) was also inspired by Gandhi ji." Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Bapu, hailing his everlasting contribution to humanity. "Tributes to beloved Bapu! On Gandhi150, we express gratitude to Mahatma Gandhi for his everlasting contribution to humanity. We pledge to continue working hard to realise his dreams and create a better planet," Modi wrote on Twitter. BJP president Amit Shah flagged off the party's "Gandhi Sankalp Yatra" from Shalimar Bagh area here to propagate the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, including cleanliness, use of khadi, non-violence, etc.

Mahatma Gandhi influenced leaders to fight injustice across the world: Nadda

With a number of events lined up across the nation, India will be celebrating the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-the-champion-of-non-violent-activism-253152">150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today</a>. 
 
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months, according to a circular issued to the party leaders. 
 
As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will end on January 31, 2020, instead of October. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and 31. Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi`s ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners and kits for the programmes to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. 
 
According to the circular, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will kick-off this programme from Gujarat, simultaneously, with the other top leaders from the party who will start it from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. All the party`s Lok Sabha MPs have been instructed to be in their respective constituencies on October 2 for the start of the programme. Prime Minister Modi will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Later in the day, he will also visit Sabarmati Ashram and participate in Swachh Bharat Diwas 2019 programme, according to a post on the official Twitter handle of BJP.

Earlier,&nbsp;Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that India has almost achieved the open defecation free (ODF) target and hoped that Prime Minister will declare India open defecation free today. On Tuesday, President Ram Nath Kovind said that the people of India have paid homage to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, by taking up the Swachh Bharat Mission as a movement.

"By taking up the `Swachh Bharat Mission` as a movement, the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation. Our nation`s emphasis on inclusive growth, transparency and honesty in public life, health-care support to the poor and farmers and effective utilization of water resources is in keeping with his thoughts," Kovind said.

BJP president Amit Shah will launch the ruling party`s `Gandhi Sankalp Yatra` in New Delhi. On the other hand, Congress will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today by taking out "padyatras" across the country with senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi taking part in the march in New Delhi. The march in the national capital will start from Delhi Pradesh Congress office and culminate at Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.

Later, Congress President Sonia Gandhi will administer an oath to leaders and workers "to redeem Gandhi, Gandhism and Gandhi`s India". Besides this, there are several events lined up to take place across the country. To mark the special occasion, AIM, NITI Aayog`s Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and UNICEF India, including Generation Unlimited, have launched `The Gandhian Challenge`.

This innovation challenge provides a platform for every child across India to ideate innovative solutions for a sustainable India of their dreams, using Gandhi`s principles. The winners of `The Gandhian Challenge` will be awarded in New Delhi by NITI Aayog`s Atal Innovation Mission and UNICEF on the occasion of Children`s Day in November. Several photo exhibitions have been organised in different cities to mark Mahatma Gandhi`s 150th birth anniversary.

Vistara is celebrating the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mahatma-gandhi-150th-anniversary-of-satyagrahas-heirloom-253166">150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi</a> in a unique way with customers aboard select flights on October 2. They will be invited to be part of the airline`s initiative `BE THE CHANGE @ 30,000 FEET` and write about a social change that they feel passionately about on a simple postcard, as per a company release.

With a number of events lined up across the nation, India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months, according to a circular issued to the party leaders.

With a number of events lined up across the nation, India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months, according to a circular issued to the party leaders. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will end on January 31, 2020, instead of October. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and 31. Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi`s ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners and kits for the programmes to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. According to the circular, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will kick-off this programme from Gujarat, simultaneously, with the other top leaders from the party who will start it from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. All the party`s Lok Sabha MPs have been instructed to be in their respective constituencies on October 2 for the start of the programme. Prime Minister Modi will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Later in the day, he will also visit Sabarmati Ashram and participate in Swachh Bharat Diwas 2019 programme, according to a post on the official Twitter handle of BJP. Earlier, Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that India has almost achieved the open defecation free (ODF) target and hoped that Prime Minister will declare India open defecation free today. On Tuesday, President Ram Nath Kovind said that the people of India have paid homage to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, by taking up the Swachh Bharat Mission as a movement. "By taking up the `Swachh Bharat Mission` as a movement, the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation. Our nation`s emphasis on inclusive growth, transparency and honesty in public life, health-care support to the poor and farmers and effective utilization of water resources is in keeping with his thoughts," Kovind said. BJP president Amit Shah will launch the ruling party`s `Gandhi Sankalp Yatra` in New Delhi. On the other hand, Congress will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today by taking out "padyatras" across the country with senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi taking part in the march in New Delhi. The march in the national capital will start from Delhi Pradesh Congress office and culminate at Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Later, Congress President Sonia Gandhi will administer an oath to leaders and workers "to redeem Gandhi, Gandhism and Gandhi`s India". Besides this, there are several events lined up to take place across the country. To mark the special occasion, AIM, NITI Aayog`s Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and UNICEF India, including Generation Unlimited, have launched `The Gandhian Challenge`. This innovation challenge provides a platform for every child across India to ideate innovative solutions for a sustainable India of their dreams, using Gandhi`s principles. The winners of `The Gandhian Challenge` will be awarded in New Delhi by NITI Aayog`s Atal Innovation Mission and UNICEF on the occasion of Children`s Day in November. Several photo exhibitions have been organised in different cities to mark Mahatma Gandhi`s 150th birth anniversary. Vistara is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in a unique way with customers aboard select flights on October 2. They will be invited to be part of the airline`s initiative `BE THE CHANGE @ 30,000 FEET` and write about a social change that they feel passionately about on a simple postcard, as per a company release.

India celebrates 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today

No blast involving old or new ammunition had taken place in Pokharan firing ranges in the last two days, Army sources clarified on Wednesday.

"No blasts took place in the Pokharan firing ranges in the last two days. We have checked from the people involved and deployed there and they clarified that no blast took place in the last two days," sources in the Indian Army said.

The sources clarified that no such incident took place even involving the scrap dealers there.

On Tuesday evening, speculation were being made in the social media by pro-Pakistan twitter users about some explosions having taken place in the Pokharan ranges which could have been a nuclear test by India.

Meanwhile, senior government sources dismissed the speculation about India conducting a nuclear explosion saying the attempt may be to project India as an irresponsible state.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

No blast involving old or new ammunition had taken place in Pokharan firing ranges in the last two days, Army sources clarified on Wednesday. "No blasts took place in the Pokharan firing ranges in the last two days.

No blast involving old or new ammunition had taken place in Pokharan firing ranges in the last two days, Army sources clarified on Wednesday. "No blasts took place in the Pokharan firing ranges in the last two days. We have checked from the people involved and deployed there and they clarified that no blast took place in the last two days," sources in the Indian Army said. The sources clarified that no such incident took place even involving the scrap dealers there. On Tuesday evening, speculation were being made in the social media by pro-Pakistan twitter users about some explosions having taken place in the Pokharan ranges which could have been a nuclear test by India. Meanwhile, senior government sources dismissed the speculation about India conducting a nuclear explosion saying the attempt may be to project India as an irresponsible state.

No blasts involving ammunition took place in Pokharan firing ranges: Army sources

With a number of events lined up across the nation, India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months, according to a circular issued to the party leaders. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will end on January 31, 2020, instead of October. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and 31.

Under this, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-was-temporary-from-the-beginning-says-bjp-working-president-jp-nadda-252950">BJP </a>is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners, and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters.

According to the circular, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/modi-true-global-gatekeeper-253059">Narendra Modi</a> will kick-off this programme from Gujarat, simultaneously, with the other top leaders from the party who will start it from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. All the party's Lok Sabha MPs have been instructed to be in their respective constituencies on October 2 for the start of the program.

Prime Minister Modi will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Later in the day, he will also visit Sabarmati Ashram and participate in Swachh Bharat Diwas 2019 program, according to a post on the official Twitter handle of BJP.

Earlier, while talking to ANI, Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that India has almost achieved the open defecation free (ODF) target and hoped that Prime Minister will declare India open defecation free today.

On Tuesday, President Ram Nath Kovind said that the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, by taking up the Swachh Bharat Mission as a movement.

"By taking up the 'Swachh Bharat Mission' as a movement, the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation. Our nation's emphasis on inclusive growth, transparency, and honesty in public life, health-care support to the poor and farmers and effective utilization of water resources is in keeping with his thoughts," Kovind said.

BJP president Amit Shah will launch the ruling party's 'Gandhi Sankalp Yatra' in New Delhi.

On the other hand, Congress will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today by taking out "padayatra" across the country with senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi taking part in the march in New Delhi.

The march in the national capital will start from Delhi Pradesh Congress office and culminate at Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Later, Congress President Sonia Gandhi will administer an oath to leaders and workers "to redeem Gandhi, Gandhism and Gandhi's India".

Besides this, there are several events lined up to take place across the country.

To mark the special occasion, AIM, NITI Aayog's Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and UNICEF India, including Generation Unlimited, have launched 'The Gandhian Challenge'. This innovation challenge provides a platform for every child across India to ideate innovative solutions for a sustainable India of their dreams, using Gandhi's principles.

The winners of 'The Gandhian Challenge' will be awarded in New Delhi by NITI Aayog's Atal Innovation Mission and UNICEF on the occasion of Children's Day in November.

Several photo exhibitions have been organized in different cities to mark Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary.

Vistara is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in a unique way with customers aboard select flights on October 2.

They will be invited to be part of the airline's initiative 'BE THE CHANGE @ 30,000 FEET' and write about a social change that they feel passionately about on a simple postcard, as per a company release.

With a number of events lined up across the nation, India will be celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months, according to a circular issued to the party leaders. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will end on January 31, 2020, instead of October. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and 31. Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners, and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. According to the circular, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will kick-off this programme from Gujarat, simultaneously, with the other top leaders from the party who will start it from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. All the party's Lok Sabha MPs have been instructed to be in their respective constituencies on October 2 for the start of the program. Prime Minister Modi will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. Later in the day, he will also visit Sabarmati Ashram and participate in Swachh Bharat Diwas 2019 program, according to a post on the official Twitter handle of BJP. Earlier, while talking to ANI, Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that India has almost achieved the open defecation free (ODF) target and hoped that Prime Minister will declare India open defecation free today. On Tuesday, President Ram Nath Kovind said that the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, by taking up the Swachh Bharat Mission as a movement. "By taking up the 'Swachh Bharat Mission' as a movement, the people of India have paid homage to the father of the nation. Our nation's emphasis on inclusive growth, transparency, and honesty in public life, health-care support to the poor and farmers and effective utilization of water resources is in keeping with his thoughts," Kovind said. BJP president Amit Shah will launch the ruling party's 'Gandhi Sankalp Yatra' in New Delhi. On the other hand, Congress will mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today by taking out "padayatra" across the country with senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi taking part in the march in New Delhi. The march in the national capital will start from Delhi Pradesh Congress office and culminate at Rajghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. Later, Congress President Sonia Gandhi will administer an oath to leaders and workers "to redeem Gandhi, Gandhism and Gandhi's India". Besides this, there are several events lined up to take place across the country. To mark the special occasion, AIM, NITI Aayog's Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and UNICEF India, including Generation Unlimited, have launched 'The Gandhian Challenge'. This innovation challenge provides a platform for every child across India to ideate innovative solutions for a sustainable India of their dreams, using Gandhi's principles. The winners of 'The Gandhian Challenge' will be awarded in New Delhi by NITI Aayog's Atal Innovation Mission and UNICEF on the occasion of Children's Day in November. Several photo exhibitions have been organized in different cities to mark Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. Vistara is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in a unique way with customers aboard select flights on October 2. They will be invited to be part of the airline's initiative 'BE THE CHANGE @ 30,000 FEET' and write about a social change that they feel passionately about on a simple postcard, as per a company release.

Lal Bahadur Shastri, born on October 2, 1904 was one of the key figures of the Indian Independence Movement, and also the second Prime Minister of independent India.&nbsp;

After the sudden demise of Jawaharlal Nehru, he took oath as the Prime Minister and led the country in the Indo-Pakistan war of 1965. Famous for his slogan ''Jai Jawan Jai Kisan'', Shastri recognised the need for self-reliance in the process of nation-building.&nbsp;

Shastri shares his birthday with another great Indian leader, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-the-champion-of-non-violent-activism-253152">Mahatma Gandhi</a>, and&nbsp;dropped his title "Shastri" (which means ''scholar") to display his rejection of the caste system. After completing his primary education at Mirzapur, Lal Bahadur was sent to Varanasi, where he stayed with his maternal uncle. He was against the prevailing "dowry system" and so refused to accept dowry when he got married to Lalita Devi. But on the insistence of his father-in-law, he accepted five yards of khadi as dowry.

His desire to join the fight against British colonialism was influenced by a speech by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mahatma-gandhi-150th-anniversary-of-satyagrahas-heirloom-253166">Mahatma Gandhi</a> in 1915. In fact, he was so inspired to join the process of nation-building that he could not even complete his education.

In 1930, Shastri became the secretary of the Congress party's local unit, and later the president of the Allahabad Congress Committee. An important figure at the ''Salt Satyagraha'', he led a door-to-door campaign asking people to refuse to pay taxes to the British.&nbsp;

Influenced by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-the-champion-of-non-violent-activism-253152">Gandhi's non-violent ideals</a>, he suggested the use of "water-jets" instead of lathis to disperse mobs.

As the Prime Minister, Shastri tackled issues like food shortage, unemployment, and poverty. At this time, he championed "the Green revolution" to yield better crop using new technology, and also became instrumental in promoting ''the White Revolution'', which changed the country's milk industry.

Lal Bahadur Shastri, who had earlier suffered two heart attacks, died of a third cardiac arrest on 11 January, 1966. Lal Bahadur Shastri was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award posthumously in 1966. 
&nbsp;

Lal Bahadur Shastri, born on October 2, 1904 was one of the key figures of the Indian Independence Movement, and also the second Prime Minister of independent India.

Lal Bahadur Shastri, born on October 2, 1904 was one of the key figures of the Indian Independence Movement, and also the second Prime Minister of independent India. After the sudden demise of Jawaharlal Nehru, he took oath as the Prime Minister and led the country in the Indo-Pakistan war of 1965. Famous for his slogan ''Jai Jawan Jai Kisan'', Shastri recognised the need for self-reliance in the process of nation-building. Shastri shares his birthday with another great Indian leader, Mahatma Gandhi, and dropped his title "Shastri" (which means ''scholar") to display his rejection of the caste system. After completing his primary education at Mirzapur, Lal Bahadur was sent to Varanasi, where he stayed with his maternal uncle. He was against the prevailing "dowry system" and so refused to accept dowry when he got married to Lalita Devi. But on the insistence of his father-in-law, he accepted five yards of khadi as dowry. His desire to join the fight against British colonialism was influenced by a speech by Mahatma Gandhi in 1915. In fact, he was so inspired to join the process of nation-building that he could not even complete his education. In 1930, Shastri became the secretary of the Congress party's local unit, and later the president of the Allahabad Congress Committee. An important figure at the ''Salt Satyagraha'', he led a door-to-door campaign asking people to refuse to pay taxes to the British. Influenced by Gandhi's non-violent ideals, he suggested the use of "water-jets" instead of lathis to disperse mobs. As the Prime Minister, Shastri tackled issues like food shortage, unemployment, and poverty. At this time, he championed "the Green revolution" to yield better crop using new technology, and also became instrumental in promoting ''the White Revolution'', which changed the country's milk industry. Lal Bahadur Shastri, who had earlier suffered two heart attacks, died of a third cardiac arrest on 11 January, 1966. Lal Bahadur Shastri was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award posthumously in 1966.

Remembering Lal Bahadur Shastri: Trials and tribulations of India's second Prime Minister

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India celebrates 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi today

Remembering Lal Bahadur Shastri: Trials and tribulations of India's second Prime Minister