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The Union Home Minister Amit Shah sought a report from the West Bengal government on the incident of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-5-dead-as-bjp-trinamool-congress-clash-in-basirhat-225589">violence between the BJP and TMC workers</a> at North 24 Parganas district on Saturday in which reportedly 5 BJP and 1 TMC worker lost their lives.

"Union Home Minister has asked for a report from the state government and I am sure Centre will take this up seriously. There is a lot of anger among the people over the incident," said Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP National General Secretary.

Four workers of the BJP were shot dead by members of the TMC in Basirhat's Sandeshkhali, BJP leader Mukul Roy has alleged.

The deaths took place on Saturday during a clash between workers of the two parties in the city of North 24 Parganas.

The removal of party flags had triggered the fight. "TMC goons attacked BJP workers and 4 of our workers were shot dead in Sandeshkhali, Basirhat. Their leader and Chief Minister is indulging in a reign of terror, we have sent a message to Home Minister Amit Shah ji, Kailash Vijayvargiya ji, and our state leaders," said Roy.

He said that a team of MPs will visit Sandeshkhali, Basirhat on Sunday to take stock of the situation and will send a report to the Home Minister Amit Shah.

Widespread violence involving the BJP and the TMC was witnessed during Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, with both parties trading blame over the issue.

The polls have come to a close, but the two parties are still at loggerheads.In an election that was marred by violence, BJP made deep inroads into the Trinamool Congress territory by winning 18 seats in Lok Sabha and restricting the TMC to only 22 seats against 34 it had won in 2014 national polls.

The Union Home Minister Amit Shah sought a report from the West Bengal government on the incident of violence between the BJP and TMC workers at North 24 Parganas district on Saturday in which reportedly 5 BJP and 1 TMC worker lost their lives.

The Union Home Minister Amit Shah sought a report from the West Bengal government on the incident of violence between the BJP and TMC workers at North 24 Parganas district on Saturday in which reportedly 5 BJP and 1 TMC worker lost their lives. "Union Home Minister has asked for a report from the state government and I am sure Centre will take this up seriously. There is a lot of anger among the people over the incident," said Kailash Vijayvargiya, BJP National General Secretary. Four workers of the BJP were shot dead by members of the TMC in Basirhat's Sandeshkhali, BJP leader Mukul Roy has alleged. The deaths took place on Saturday during a clash between workers of the two parties in the city of North 24 Parganas. The removal of party flags had triggered the fight. "TMC goons attacked BJP workers and 4 of our workers were shot dead in Sandeshkhali, Basirhat. Their leader and Chief Minister is indulging in a reign of terror, we have sent a message to Home Minister Amit Shah ji, Kailash Vijayvargiya ji, and our state leaders," said Roy. He said that a team of MPs will visit Sandeshkhali, Basirhat on Sunday to take stock of the situation and will send a report to the Home Minister Amit Shah. Widespread violence involving the BJP and the TMC was witnessed during Lok Sabha elections in West Bengal, with both parties trading blame over the issue. The polls have come to a close, but the two parties are still at loggerheads.In an election that was marred by violence, BJP made deep inroads into the Trinamool Congress territory by winning 18 seats in Lok Sabha and restricting the TMC to only 22 seats against 34 it had won in 2014 national polls.

Amit Shah seeks report on West Bengal violence

Siachen, tucked away in the mighty Himalayas, is known for its extreme weather conditions with the temperature dropping to as low as -70 degrees Celsius. The plight and mental strength of Indian Army soldiers posted there is undeniably unimaginable. A video that has recently gone viral on social media stands testimony of the same.&nbsp;

The two-minute-long video, posted on Facebook by Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, shows three Indian Army personnel trying to break eggs but in vain as the eggs seemed completely frozen.&nbsp;

One of the armymen tears open a carton of packaged juice only to reveal the content inside frozen brick-hard. &nbsp;

The video was posted online on Saturday and by the time this piece was being written, it had over 45 thousand views, over 150 comments and more than a thousand shares.&nbsp;

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The video depicts what Indian Army personnel go through and how they brave the grave circumstances every day while being posted at Siachen.&nbsp;

"See the condition of the eatables of troops stationed in Siachen glacier, juice turns out to be a brick, frozen egg, potatoes, tomatoes etc..., with this they have to survive there in Siachen for 3 months. This is where they serve, where the temperature can go down from -40 to -70 degree Celsius. May God be with them, protect them and bless them," the post read.&nbsp;

In his first visit as Defence Minister, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-rajnath-singh-interacts-with-troops-in-siachen-223872">Rajnath Singh on June 3 visited</a> the world's highest battlefield - the Siachen Glacier - where he interacted with Army troops and paid tributes to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

In a series of tweets, Rajnath lauded the personnel for performing their duty with great courage despite unfavourable terrain.

"I salute your spirit, your valour from the bottom of my heart. Jawans and officers in the Armed forces have a sense of pride, that is the strongest sentiment in the heart of any human," Singh said while addressing personnel at the Siachen Base Camp.

Siachen, tucked away in the mighty Himalayas, is known for its extreme weather conditions with the temperature dropping to as low as -70 degrees Celsius. The plight and mental strength of Indian Army soldiers posted there is undeniably unimaginable.

Siachen, tucked away in the mighty Himalayas, is known for its extreme weather conditions with the temperature dropping to as low as -70 degrees Celsius. The plight and mental strength of Indian Army soldiers posted there is undeniably unimaginable. A video that has recently gone viral on social media stands testimony of the same. The two-minute-long video, posted on Facebook by Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, shows three Indian Army personnel trying to break eggs but in vain as the eggs seemed completely frozen. One of the armymen tears open a carton of packaged juice only to reveal the content inside frozen brick-hard. The video was posted online on Saturday and by the time this piece was being written, it had over 45 thousand views, over 150 comments and more than a thousand shares. × The video depicts what Indian Army personnel go through and how they brave the grave circumstances every day while being posted at Siachen. "See the condition of the eatables of troops stationed in Siachen glacier, juice turns out to be a brick, frozen egg, potatoes, tomatoes etc..., with this they have to survive there in Siachen for 3 months. This is where they serve, where the temperature can go down from -40 to -70 degree Celsius. May God be with them, protect them and bless them," the post read. In his first visit as Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh on June 3 visited the world's highest battlefield - the Siachen Glacier - where he interacted with Army troops and paid tributes to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. In a series of tweets, Rajnath lauded the personnel for performing their duty with great courage despite unfavourable terrain. "I salute your spirit, your valour from the bottom of my heart. Jawans and officers in the Armed forces have a sense of pride, that is the strongest sentiment in the heart of any human," Singh said while addressing personnel at the Siachen Base Camp.

Watch: Indian Army soldiers struggle with frozen eggs, brick-hard fruit juice in Siachen 

A day after an AIADMK MLA VV Rajan Chellappa made a strong pitch for a single charismatic leader to steer the party, the party leadership has written a letter to party cadre urging them to remain disciplined, united and follow the political lessons imparted by their late leaders and former Chief Ministers MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa.

Speaking to reporters at Madurai, Chellappa said, three weeks after the election results and the dismal performance the party high command was yet to convene a general council meeting and analyse the reasons behind the rout. The AIADMK currently has two top posts of coordinator and co-coordinator held by Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami respectively.&nbsp;

This public call for a single charismatic leader is on the lines of the practice that was prevalent during the MGR and Jayalalithaa years, where they held the top post of party General Secretary. The MLA and senior party leader refrained from naming anyone for the top post, only saying that any leader with influence among the people, charisma and who is recognised by Amma (Jayalalithaa) should come into power.

He also asserted that the AIADMK cannot be defeated by the DMK and no ruling MLA would switch to the opposite camp, adding that he aired his views only to strengthen the party.

In an attempt to downplay the controversy, Chief Minister Palaniswami termed all the AIADMK cadre and functionaries as leaders and brushed off concerns about the leadership crisis.

In the letter issued to the party cadre and functionaries, the leadership urged them to exercise caution while going public with their opinions regarding the goings-on in the party, the debacle in the elections and organisational matters of the party.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION on the developments, senior journalist and political analyst Sumanth C Raman said, "this letter was most needed as some MLAs have been making indiscreet statements of late ."

On the calls for a single leader and the way ahead for the party he said, “its a recipe for disaster, what is working currently should not be disturbed and for the next six months to one year the EPS-OPS combine must tighten their grip.”

Amid the demands for a singular top leadership and calls for discussing the reasons for the poll rout, AIADMK MLAs, MPs and senior functionaries are expected to meet on Wednesday.

The AIADMK received a drubbing in the recently concluded Lok Sabha Polls, with the party winning only a single seat from the 38 seats across Tamil Nadu, against its 2014 performance where they swept 37 seats.&nbsp;

However, the party which is currently ruling the state managed to bag nine seats in the Assembly bye-polls, hence ruling out the possibility of them being unseated.

A day after an AIADMK MLA VV Rajan Chellappa made a strong pitch for a single charismatic leader to steer the party, the party leadership has written a letter to party cadre urging them to remain disciplined, united and follow the political lessons imparted by their late leaders and former Chief Ministers MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa.

A day after an AIADMK MLA VV Rajan Chellappa made a strong pitch for a single charismatic leader to steer the party, the party leadership has written a letter to party cadre urging them to remain disciplined, united and follow the political lessons imparted by their late leaders and former Chief Ministers MG Ramachandran and J Jayalalithaa. Speaking to reporters at Madurai, Chellappa said, three weeks after the election results and the dismal performance the party high command was yet to convene a general council meeting and analyse the reasons behind the rout. The AIADMK currently has two top posts of coordinator and co-coordinator held by Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami respectively. This public call for a single charismatic leader is on the lines of the practice that was prevalent during the MGR and Jayalalithaa years, where they held the top post of party General Secretary. The MLA and senior party leader refrained from naming anyone for the top post, only saying that any leader with influence among the people, charisma and who is recognised by Amma (Jayalalithaa) should come into power. He also asserted that the AIADMK cannot be defeated by the DMK and no ruling MLA would switch to the opposite camp, adding that he aired his views only to strengthen the party. In an attempt to downplay the controversy, Chief Minister Palaniswami termed all the AIADMK cadre and functionaries as leaders and brushed off concerns about the leadership crisis. In the letter issued to the party cadre and functionaries, the leadership urged them to exercise caution while going public with their opinions regarding the goings-on in the party, the debacle in the elections and organisational matters of the party. Speaking to WION on the developments, senior journalist and political analyst Sumanth C Raman said, "this letter was most needed as some MLAs have been making indiscreet statements of late ." On the calls for a single leader and the way ahead for the party he said, “its a recipe for disaster, what is working currently should not be disturbed and for the next six months to one year the EPS-OPS combine must tighten their grip.” Amid the demands for a singular top leadership and calls for discussing the reasons for the poll rout, AIADMK MLAs, MPs and senior functionaries are expected to meet on Wednesday. The AIADMK received a drubbing in the recently concluded Lok Sabha Polls, with the party winning only a single seat from the 38 seats across Tamil Nadu, against its 2014 performance where they swept 37 seats. However, the party which is currently ruling the state managed to bag nine seats in the Assembly bye-polls, hence ruling out the possibility of them being unseated.

AIADMK leadership writes to cadres, urges them to join hands and safeguard party

A day after massive clashes between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) workers in Sandeshkhali in Basirhat located in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, claiming as many as three lives, a daylong drama prevailed in the area.

On Sunday, a five-member BJP delegation led by Bengal BJP President and MP from Midnapore constituency Dilip Ghosh met the family members of the two deceased BJP workers while&nbsp;a delegation comprising TMC leaders met the family members of the deceased party worker. &nbsp;

In view of tension prevailing in the area, the district administration shut down internet services for an indefinite period in Basirhat.

Police carried out massive searches for the missing party workers who remained untraceable. Police also deployed reserve force besides deploying armed personnel and Rapid Action Force (RAF) to maintain the law and order in the area.

However, the situation turned volatile when the BJP delegation leading the hearse carrying the two deceased BJP workers were stopped by the police from taking the dead bodies to Kolkata.

According to sources in the district police, they had prevented the delegation from taking the dead bodies in anticipation that the party might take out a procession despite assurances from the BJP that they will not do so.

The party had planned last rites of the two BJP workers in Kolkata after allowing the party workers to pay their last respects at the party headquarters.

Eventually, the party had to drop that idea and returned to their village in Sandeshkhali.

The Central government has taken cognisance of the situation and sought a report from the state government.

The Governor expressed his concern over the prevailing situation in the state. “Governor Tripathi is very sad at the unfortunate loss of lives and properties of the citizens. He extends his heartfelt sympathy for the families and near and dear ones of the deceased. He appeals to all concerned to see to it that no violent incidents take place and peace and harmony prevail in the state,” read a release from Governor’s House.

Meanwhile, the BJP has called a 12-hour bandh tomorrow in Basirhat and said the party will be observing a black day.

A day after massive clashes between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) workers in Sandeshkhali in Basirhat located in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, claiming as many as three lives, a daylong drama prevailed in the area.

A day after massive clashes between Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) workers in Sandeshkhali in Basirhat located in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, claiming as many as three lives, a daylong drama prevailed in the area. On Sunday, a five-member BJP delegation led by Bengal BJP President and MP from Midnapore constituency Dilip Ghosh met the family members of the two deceased BJP workers while a delegation comprising TMC leaders met the family members of the deceased party worker. In view of tension prevailing in the area, the district administration shut down internet services for an indefinite period in Basirhat. Police carried out massive searches for the missing party workers who remained untraceable. Police also deployed reserve force besides deploying armed personnel and Rapid Action Force (RAF) to maintain the law and order in the area. However, the situation turned volatile when the BJP delegation leading the hearse carrying the two deceased BJP workers were stopped by the police from taking the dead bodies to Kolkata. According to sources in the district police, they had prevented the delegation from taking the dead bodies in anticipation that the party might take out a procession despite assurances from the BJP that they will not do so. The party had planned last rites of the two BJP workers in Kolkata after allowing the party workers to pay their last respects at the party headquarters. Eventually, the party had to drop that idea and returned to their village in Sandeshkhali. The Central government has taken cognisance of the situation and sought a report from the state government. The Governor expressed his concern over the prevailing situation in the state. “Governor Tripathi is very sad at the unfortunate loss of lives and properties of the citizens. He extends his heartfelt sympathy for the families and near and dear ones of the deceased. He appeals to all concerned to see to it that no violent incidents take place and peace and harmony prevail in the state,” read a release from Governor’s House. Meanwhile, the BJP has called a 12-hour bandh tomorrow in Basirhat and said the party will be observing a black day.

BJP calls for 12-hour bandh in Basirhat, West Bengal over death of 3 party workers  

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, on Saturday participated in the G20 ministerial meeting on Trade and Digital Economy, held in the Japanese city of Tsukuba.

The meeting focused on the ways to promote trade and cooperation among the G20 countries in order to harness the potential of the digital economy.

Taking to his official Twitter handle after the meeting, Goyal wrote, "Attending the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade &amp; Digital Economy in Japan, graced with presence of Trade &amp; Digital Economy Ministers of member countries. Participated in discussions relating to increasing trade &amp; cooperation to harness the potential of digital economy."

Earlier in the day, the Commerce minister held bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit in order to sensitize India's core interests in trade and investment issues and build a coalition with like-minded countries for defending the interests of developing countries.

In a series of tweets through the day, Goyal informed of holding meetings with US Ambassador to World Trade Organization, Dennis Shea; China's Vice Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen; and Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism, and Investment, Simon Birmingham, among others.

"Met with US Ambassador to World Trade Organization, Dennis Shea and had a forward looking discussion on India-US trade relations and boosting economic cooperation between the two nations," Goyal wrote on Twitter.

Another tweet read, "Met China's Vice-Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen and had a fruitful discussion regarding strengthening mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation between the two countries."

The third tweet read, "Met Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Simon Birmingham and engaged in a dialogue for strengthening economic and trade ties between the two nations @Birmo".

Other than this, Goyal also held bilaterals with Minister of Trade and Industry for Singapore, Chan Chun Sing; Minister of Commerce and Investment for Saudi Arabia, Majid Bin Abdullah Al Qasabi; Minister of Trade and Industry for South Africa, Ebrahim Patel, and Minister for Trade of the Republic of Korea, Yoo Myung-Hee.

The G20 trade ministers'&nbsp;deliberations form part of the G20 summit leaders agenda in the formal discussions and will also be a part of the summit declaration.

Ever since G20 was formed, India has been actively participating in the meetings. Although there are no binding commitments in G20, it sets the agenda for multilateral trade relations.

Over 50 trade and digital economy ministers will discuss how G20 economies can promote trade and investment and maximise benefits from the development of digital technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the global economy.

The Trade and Digital Economy meeting is one of the eight ministerial meetings taking place in Japan alongside the 2019 G20 Summit. The G20 members represent two-thirds of the world's people and 85 per cent of its economy.&nbsp;

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, on Saturday participated in the G20 ministerial meeting on Trade and Digital Economy, held in the Japanese city of Tsukuba.

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, on Saturday participated in the G20 ministerial meeting on Trade and Digital Economy, held in the Japanese city of Tsukuba. The meeting focused on the ways to promote trade and cooperation among the G20 countries in order to harness the potential of the digital economy. Taking to his official Twitter handle after the meeting, Goyal wrote, "Attending the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade & Digital Economy in Japan, graced with presence of Trade & Digital Economy Ministers of member countries. Participated in discussions relating to increasing trade & cooperation to harness the potential of digital economy." Earlier in the day, the Commerce minister held bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit in order to sensitize India's core interests in trade and investment issues and build a coalition with like-minded countries for defending the interests of developing countries. In a series of tweets through the day, Goyal informed of holding meetings with US Ambassador to World Trade Organization, Dennis Shea; China's Vice Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen; and Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism, and Investment, Simon Birmingham, among others. "Met with US Ambassador to World Trade Organization, Dennis Shea and had a forward looking discussion on India-US trade relations and boosting economic cooperation between the two nations," Goyal wrote on Twitter. Another tweet read, "Met China's Vice-Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen and had a fruitful discussion regarding strengthening mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation between the two countries." The third tweet read, "Met Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Simon Birmingham and engaged in a dialogue for strengthening economic and trade ties between the two nations @Birmo". Other than this, Goyal also held bilaterals with Minister of Trade and Industry for Singapore, Chan Chun Sing; Minister of Commerce and Investment for Saudi Arabia, Majid Bin Abdullah Al Qasabi; Minister of Trade and Industry for South Africa, Ebrahim Patel, and Minister for Trade of the Republic of Korea, Yoo Myung-Hee. The G20 trade ministers' deliberations form part of the G20 summit leaders agenda in the formal discussions and will also be a part of the summit declaration. Ever since G20 was formed, India has been actively participating in the meetings. Although there are no binding commitments in G20, it sets the agenda for multilateral trade relations. Over 50 trade and digital economy ministers will discuss how G20 economies can promote trade and investment and maximise benefits from the development of digital technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the global economy. The Trade and Digital Economy meeting is one of the eight ministerial meetings taking place in Japan alongside the 2019 G20 Summit. The G20 members represent two-thirds of the world's people and 85 per cent of its economy.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal participates in G20 ministerial meeting in Japan

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday held deliberations with the party's core group leaders from three Assembly poll-bound states.

Party sources said Shah held separate meetings with leaders from Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Haryana, all of which would go to polls later this year, at the BJP headquarters here.

The deliberations among the party leaders are believed to have focussed on the preparation for the polls, with Shah taking stock of the prevailing political situation and discussing the BJP's strategy.

The BJP is in power in all the three states and their chief ministers also attended the exercise.

The BJP's main rival in all three states is either the Congress, as in Haryana, or an opposition alliance in which it is a major presence, as in Maharashtra and Jharkhand.

The saffron party decimated its rivals in these states in the recent Lok Sabha polls but Assembly elections will be fought on state-specific issues, with the performance of the respective state governments likely to be central planks.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday held deliberations with the party's core group leaders from three Assembly poll-bound states. Party sources said Shah held separate meetings with leaders from Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Haryana, all of which would go to polls later this year, at the BJP headquarters here.

BJP president Amit Shah Sunday held deliberations with the party's core group leaders from three Assembly poll-bound states. Party sources said Shah held separate meetings with leaders from Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Haryana, all of which would go to polls later this year, at the BJP headquarters here. The deliberations among the party leaders are believed to have focussed on the preparation for the polls, with Shah taking stock of the prevailing political situation and discussing the BJP's strategy. The BJP is in power in all the three states and their chief ministers also attended the exercise. The BJP's main rival in all three states is either the Congress, as in Haryana, or an opposition alliance in which it is a major presence, as in Maharashtra and Jharkhand. The saffron party decimated its rivals in these states in the recent Lok Sabha polls but Assembly elections will be fought on state-specific issues, with the performance of the respective state governments likely to be central planks.

Amit Shah holds meetings with BJP leaders from 3 Assembly poll-bound states

Amidst controversy over JDU not joining the BJP led NDA government at the Centre, the party on Sunday made it clear that it would remain a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

"We want to make it clear once again that we are and will remain a part of the NDA. We are going to contest the 2020 Assembly polls under the banner of NDA and the leadership of Nitish Kumar," senior JDU leader KC Tyagi said while addressing a press conference here after the national executive meeting.

However, he also clarified that JDU won't be a part of the NDA government at the Centre.

Rejecting media reports that JDU had forwarded the names of some leaders to be inducted into the Union Council of Ministers, Tyagi said, "JDU did not forward any names for the Cabinet."

"In the first meeting between Amit Shah and Nitish Kumar, Shahji said that we have the majority but we will still give symbolic representation to all our allies. Nitish ji politely said that this is not possible."

The senior JDU leader asserted that offer to join the Union Cabinet came on a number of occasions, but these were turned down by his party.

"Just like the last time, when we did not join the government for two years but continued to support it, similarly, this time too, we will continue to support the government from outside," he said.

"We reject all such rumours and misinformation and slandering campaigns," he said while reminding that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar addressed 171 meetings for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Talking about the party's plans discussed at the meeting of the national executive, Tyagi said,&nbsp;"We want to make our party a national party. We are a recognised party in Bihar and Arunachal Pradesh. The party has decided to contest the upcoming Assembly election in four states. We will try that we become a national party by 2020."

He also made it clear that JDU won't support the scrapping of Article 370.

"Jayaprakash Narayan was the only leader to support Article 370 when it was attacked by the Congress and attempts were made to dilute it. We are his descendants. It is our responsibility to raise questions put up by our ancestors. So there won`t be any compromise on that," he said.

Commenting on the Ram temple issue, the JDU leader said,&nbsp;"Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mohan Bhagwat have said it that nothing will happen on the Ram Mandir front until the Supreme Court order is out."

"May this government last longer. May the country prosper under the leadership of Narendra Modi but we will not accept anything other than proportional representation," he said.

Clarifying about the controversy over JDU leader Prashant Kishor working for TMC leader Mamata Banerjee, Tyagi said,&nbsp;"IPAC has nothing to do with the JDU. Now, he is a doctor (pointing towards a leader sitting beside him). Should he stop giving prescriptions to Congress workers?"

"We want BJP to win in West Bengal and the TMC to lose. Is Prashant Kishor going to seek votes? Why would the party have any objection against his works until or unless he doesn`t make a statement or does something against the JDU and NDA," he added.&nbsp;

Amidst controversy over JDU not joining the BJP led NDA government at the Centre, the party on Sunday made it clear that it would remain a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Amidst controversy over JDU not joining the BJP led NDA government at the Centre, the party on Sunday made it clear that it would remain a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). "We want to make it clear once again that we are and will remain a part of the NDA. We are going to contest the 2020 Assembly polls under the banner of NDA and the leadership of Nitish Kumar," senior JDU leader KC Tyagi said while addressing a press conference here after the national executive meeting. However, he also clarified that JDU won't be a part of the NDA government at the Centre. Rejecting media reports that JDU had forwarded the names of some leaders to be inducted into the Union Council of Ministers, Tyagi said, "JDU did not forward any names for the Cabinet." "In the first meeting between Amit Shah and Nitish Kumar, Shahji said that we have the majority but we will still give symbolic representation to all our allies. Nitish ji politely said that this is not possible." The senior JDU leader asserted that offer to join the Union Cabinet came on a number of occasions, but these were turned down by his party. "Just like the last time, when we did not join the government for two years but continued to support it, similarly, this time too, we will continue to support the government from outside," he said. "We reject all such rumours and misinformation and slandering campaigns," he said while reminding that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar addressed 171 meetings for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Talking about the party's plans discussed at the meeting of the national executive, Tyagi said, "We want to make our party a national party. We are a recognised party in Bihar and Arunachal Pradesh. The party has decided to contest the upcoming Assembly election in four states. We will try that we become a national party by 2020." He also made it clear that JDU won't support the scrapping of Article 370. "Jayaprakash Narayan was the only leader to support Article 370 when it was attacked by the Congress and attempts were made to dilute it. We are his descendants. It is our responsibility to raise questions put up by our ancestors. So there won`t be any compromise on that," he said. Commenting on the Ram temple issue, the JDU leader said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mohan Bhagwat have said it that nothing will happen on the Ram Mandir front until the Supreme Court order is out." "May this government last longer. May the country prosper under the leadership of Narendra Modi but we will not accept anything other than proportional representation," he said. Clarifying about the controversy over JDU leader Prashant Kishor working for TMC leader Mamata Banerjee, Tyagi said, "IPAC has nothing to do with the JDU. Now, he is a doctor (pointing towards a leader sitting beside him). Should he stop giving prescriptions to Congress workers?" "We want BJP to win in West Bengal and the TMC to lose. Is Prashant Kishor going to seek votes? Why would the party have any objection against his works until or unless he doesn`t make a statement or does something against the JDU and NDA," he added.

JDU will remain a part of NDA, will fight 2020 Assembly polls under leadership of Nitish: KC Tyagi

PM Narendra Modi leaves for Sri Lanka from Maldives. Watch full video to know more.

PM Modi leaves for Sri Lanka from Maldives

Voicing concern about political discourse in India reaching a 'new low', Vice President Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said the country's legislatures, instead of becoming effective forums of debate, are being reduced to "disruptive platforms."

Speaking at the Hyderabad Management Association's 46th Annual Awards function in Hyderabad, the Vice President called for the 'disturbing trend'&nbsp;of lowered political discourse to be reversed.

"We are witnessing another type of disruption, which unfortunately is becoming increasingly commonplace. Our legislatures, instead of becoming effective forums of debate, are being reduced to disruptive platforms. This growing tendency, in my view, is a clear negation of the vision of our Constitutional makers. In a way, it is an affront to the spirit of the Constitution of India. It is apathy towards the hopes and aspirations of the people. It is utter disregard for people's mandate. It is a betrayal of the people's faith in these pillars of democracy," he noted.

Naidu continued, "It is a matter of concern that political discourse is reaching a new low in recent years. We should reverse this trend at the earliest. A credible opposition is an essential prop for a healthy democracy."

Quoting former President Pranab Mukherjee's slogan - discuss, debate and decide but not disturb - Naidu said it is important for those in the public sphere to understand that they are rivals, not enemies.Naidu, who is also Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, said the functioning of Parliament and state legislatures has become "worrisome" owing to frequent disruptive and dysfunctional tendencies.

"People need to monitor the functioning of the legislatures and also the conduct of various parties and the elected representatives," he said, adding, "People elect their representatives hoping that they would articulate their hopes and aspirations in the legislatures and do the needful by way of making laws and raising issues of public importance so as to make a difference to their lives. Dysfunctional legislatures strengthen the demand for recall of legislators. I am afraid that we are moving towards that stage."

The Vice President called for fast-tracking of cases dealing with criminal cases against politicos. "As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, I have tried to be objective and judicious in my response to cases of violation of anti-defection laws. These cases, in my view, require to be dealt with speed and alacrity to uphold the best democratic traditions. Election petitions and criminal cases against political leaders must be decided quickly by special benches of higher courts in a time-bound manner. If need be, separate benches may be set up to expedite such cases within six months or one year," he added."Presiding officers of legislative bodies need to decide anti-defection cases within three months time," Naidu asserted.

Shedding light on the economic and administrative reforms initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for tackling the menaces of corruption and black money, Naidu said that owing to these reforms, India has emerged as a top destination for investments in the world.

"India is today one of the favourite destinations for investments and has become the most attractive emerging market. There is a need to further accelerate reforms as India forges ahead to become the third largest economy in the coming years," he said.

"According to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), FDI equity inflows in India in 2018-19 stood at $44.37 billion, indicating that government's effort to improve ease of doing business and relaxation in FDI norms is yielding results. As per a report of UBS, annual FDI inflows in the country are expected to rise to $75 billion over the next five years. We are poised to become a $5 Trillion economy in a decade," Naidu added.

Naidu went on to say that the principles of management are equally applicable in aspects of public administration.

"Every official in the bureaucracy must remember the face of the common man and strive to bring a smile on his face. The time also has come to rejuvenate the bureaucracy by introducing reforms in selection and cadre allocation and making in-service training mandatory for officials at all levels," he said.

"The performance management systems in the bureaucracy can be enhanced with greater focus on outcomes and by recruiting more young people into the system. It is also important to ensure that appointments to important positions are apolitical," he added.

The Vice President called for public and private sectors in India to work in tandem to complement each other and to learn from each other's experience.

"The public sector has to utilise the private sector's expertise in technology, automation, digitisation and the ease with which they adopt innovations and adapt quickly to the changing times. The private sector can learn from the best practices of some the reputed public sector organisations," he said.&nbsp;

Voicing concern about political discourse in India reaching a 'new low', Vice President Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said the country's legislatures, instead of becoming effective forums of debate, are being reduced to "disruptive platforms.

Voicing concern about political discourse in India reaching a 'new low', Vice President Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday said the country's legislatures, instead of becoming effective forums of debate, are being reduced to "disruptive platforms." Speaking at the Hyderabad Management Association's 46th Annual Awards function in Hyderabad, the Vice President called for the 'disturbing trend' of lowered political discourse to be reversed. "We are witnessing another type of disruption, which unfortunately is becoming increasingly commonplace. Our legislatures, instead of becoming effective forums of debate, are being reduced to disruptive platforms. This growing tendency, in my view, is a clear negation of the vision of our Constitutional makers. In a way, it is an affront to the spirit of the Constitution of India. It is apathy towards the hopes and aspirations of the people. It is utter disregard for people's mandate. It is a betrayal of the people's faith in these pillars of democracy," he noted. Naidu continued, "It is a matter of concern that political discourse is reaching a new low in recent years. We should reverse this trend at the earliest. A credible opposition is an essential prop for a healthy democracy." Quoting former President Pranab Mukherjee's slogan - discuss, debate and decide but not disturb - Naidu said it is important for those in the public sphere to understand that they are rivals, not enemies.Naidu, who is also Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, said the functioning of Parliament and state legislatures has become "worrisome" owing to frequent disruptive and dysfunctional tendencies. "People need to monitor the functioning of the legislatures and also the conduct of various parties and the elected representatives," he said, adding, "People elect their representatives hoping that they would articulate their hopes and aspirations in the legislatures and do the needful by way of making laws and raising issues of public importance so as to make a difference to their lives. Dysfunctional legislatures strengthen the demand for recall of legislators. I am afraid that we are moving towards that stage." The Vice President called for fast-tracking of cases dealing with criminal cases against politicos. "As Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, I have tried to be objective and judicious in my response to cases of violation of anti-defection laws. These cases, in my view, require to be dealt with speed and alacrity to uphold the best democratic traditions. Election petitions and criminal cases against political leaders must be decided quickly by special benches of higher courts in a time-bound manner. If need be, separate benches may be set up to expedite such cases within six months or one year," he added."Presiding officers of legislative bodies need to decide anti-defection cases within three months time," Naidu asserted. Shedding light on the economic and administrative reforms initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for tackling the menaces of corruption and black money, Naidu said that owing to these reforms, India has emerged as a top destination for investments in the world. "India is today one of the favourite destinations for investments and has become the most attractive emerging market. There is a need to further accelerate reforms as India forges ahead to become the third largest economy in the coming years," he said. "According to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), FDI equity inflows in India in 2018-19 stood at $44.37 billion, indicating that government's effort to improve ease of doing business and relaxation in FDI norms is yielding results. As per a report of UBS, annual FDI inflows in the country are expected to rise to $75 billion over the next five years. We are poised to become a $5 Trillion economy in a decade," Naidu added. Naidu went on to say that the principles of management are equally applicable in aspects of public administration. "Every official in the bureaucracy must remember the face of the common man and strive to bring a smile on his face. The time also has come to rejuvenate the bureaucracy by introducing reforms in selection and cadre allocation and making in-service training mandatory for officials at all levels," he said. "The performance management systems in the bureaucracy can be enhanced with greater focus on outcomes and by recruiting more young people into the system. It is also important to ensure that appointments to important positions are apolitical," he added. The Vice President called for public and private sectors in India to work in tandem to complement each other and to learn from each other's experience. "The public sector has to utilise the private sector's expertise in technology, automation, digitisation and the ease with which they adopt innovations and adapt quickly to the changing times. The private sector can learn from the best practices of some the reputed public sector organisations," he said.

Legislatures being reduced to disruptive platforms: Vice President Naidu in Hyderabad

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/proportional-representation-in-cabinet-needed-nitish-kumar-223194">Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar</a> Saturday distanced his party from Prashant Kishor's decision to offer services as a poll strategist to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, saying the JD(U) has nothing to do with it.

"Kishor's activities in West Bengal are not in his capacity as a JD(U) leader," the JD(U) chief said, adding Kishore has been in touch with various parties as head of an organisation that advises them on their poll strategies.

His remarks came after the decision vy Kishor, a JD(U) vice president, to work with Banerjee's Trinamool Congress for the 2021 assembly polls raised eyebrows. The TMC is locked in a fierce electoral battle with the BJP, an ally of Nitish Kumar's JD(U).

Though Kumar evaded a direct reply on whether the JD(U) will seek an explanation, he expressed hope that Kishor will be able to answers all the questions on Sunday when the party's national executive meet.

"Kishor joined our party in September last year and we assigned him an important role. But he also heads an organisation that specialises in devising poll strategies for political parties. In that capacity, he has been in touch with various political parties. The JD(U) has nothing to do with it," Kumar told reporters here.

He was responding to queries at the JD(U) state headquarters after launching a nationwide membership drive aimed at expanding the party base.

"We have nothing to do with his activities in West Bengal. We do not even know what type of services his company will be providing in the neighbouring state.&nbsp;

"But we understand this episode has given rise to many misgivings in the media unlike in the past when he similarly offered professional help to the YSR Congress headed by Jaganmohan Reddy which swept to power in Andhra Pradesh," the CM said.

"However, these are matters on which Kishor himself can shed some light. He will be here on Sunday when the party's national executive will meet. We hope that he will come up with an explanation that answers all the questions," Kumar said.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Saturday distanced his party from Prashant Kishor's decision to offer services as a poll strategist to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, saying the JD(U) has nothing to do with it.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Saturday distanced his party from Prashant Kishor's decision to offer services as a poll strategist to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, saying the JD(U) has nothing to do with it. "Kishor's activities in West Bengal are not in his capacity as a JD(U) leader," the JD(U) chief said, adding Kishore has been in touch with various parties as head of an organisation that advises them on their poll strategies. His remarks came after the decision vy Kishor, a JD(U) vice president, to work with Banerjee's Trinamool Congress for the 2021 assembly polls raised eyebrows. The TMC is locked in a fierce electoral battle with the BJP, an ally of Nitish Kumar's JD(U). Though Kumar evaded a direct reply on whether the JD(U) will seek an explanation, he expressed hope that Kishor will be able to answers all the questions on Sunday when the party's national executive meet. "Kishor joined our party in September last year and we assigned him an important role. But he also heads an organisation that specialises in devising poll strategies for political parties. In that capacity, he has been in touch with various political parties. The JD(U) has nothing to do with it," Kumar told reporters here. He was responding to queries at the JD(U) state headquarters after launching a nationwide membership drive aimed at expanding the party base. "We have nothing to do with his activities in West Bengal. We do not even know what type of services his company will be providing in the neighbouring state. "But we understand this episode has given rise to many misgivings in the media unlike in the past when he similarly offered professional help to the YSR Congress headed by Jaganmohan Reddy which swept to power in Andhra Pradesh," the CM said. "However, these are matters on which Kishor himself can shed some light. He will be here on Sunday when the party's national executive will meet. We hope that he will come up with an explanation that answers all the questions," Kumar said.

JD(U) has nothing to do with Prashant Kishor's activities in West Bengal: Nitish Kumar

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar asserted on Saturday that his JD(U) stayed out of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre since it felt there was no need for a "symbolic representation" in the Union cabinet and that the decision must not be construed as a result of any disaffection with its ally BJP.

"We are fully with the Modi government. I had made it clear after returning from New Delhi (after the swearing-in). Their party (BJP) has full majority. It has received the mandate to form government on its own and is not dependent on allies. Yet they expressed the view that there should be a symbolic representation of all alliance partners. We thought it was not needed," Kumar told reporters here.

Kumar was replying to queries on the sidelines of a function where he launched a nationwide membership drive carried out by the JD(U), of which he is the national president.

"It is wrong to think that we have any disaffection with the BJP which has led to the decision. We have a different style of working and having a minister or two in the Centre does not matter much to us. We had returned to the NDA in the interests of Bihar and to that end our alliance remains firm," Kumar said.

Kumar had snapped 17-year-old ties with the BJP in 2013 in protest against Narendra Modi's appointment as the party's chief for Lok Sabha election campaign which was seen as a precursor to his elevation as the Prime Ministerial candidate.&nbsp;

Kumar had till then maintained a distance from his Gujarat counterpart in view of the latter's alleged role in the post-Godhra communal riots.

He fought the Lok Sabha polls in alliance with the CPI, losing badly and resigned as Chief Minister taking moral responsibility for the drubbing. Thereafter he formed a coalition with arch rival Lalu Prasad, who heads the RJD, and their alliance with the Congress handsomely won the 2015 assembly polls and the RJD supremo's sons Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav were inducted into the new cabinet headed by Kumar.

However, in 2017 a major controversy broke out following lodging of money laundering cases, by central agencies like CBI and ED against Tejashwi who was also the Deputy CM.

This led to Kumar walking out of the Grand Alliance and returning to the NDA as the BJP, now joined by Ram Vilas Paswan's LJP, came with offer of support.

In the recent general elections, the NDA swept Bihar winning 39 out of 40 seats. The JD(U), which had fought 17 seats, won all but one.

Kumar expressed delight over his party earning the status of a "recognized state party" in Arunachal Pradesh.

About reports that his party's unit in the neighbouring Jharkhand wanted to fight the assembly polls early next year on its own which would pit the JD(U) against the BJP, Kumar said, "Our national executive will meet tomorrow. Our Jharkhand unit members will also be present. We will take a decision based on their inputs."

Despite being an NDA constituent, the JD(U) has maintained that its ties with the BJP were limited to Bihar only and it has contested assembly polls in a number of states ruled by its alliance partner, including Gujarat.

Replying to a query about the ghastly killing of a girl child in Aligarh, whose mutilated body was spotted by passersby when it was being dragged by stray dogs, Kumar said, "It is abominable. The guilty must be punished severely."&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar asserted on Saturday that his JD(U) stayed out of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre since it felt there was no need for a "symbolic representation" in the Union cabinet and that the decision must not be construed as a result of any disaffection with its ally BJP.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar asserted on Saturday that his JD(U) stayed out of the Narendra Modi government at the Centre since it felt there was no need for a "symbolic representation" in the Union cabinet and that the decision must not be construed as a result of any disaffection with its ally BJP. "We are fully with the Modi government. I had made it clear after returning from New Delhi (after the swearing-in). Their party (BJP) has full majority. It has received the mandate to form government on its own and is not dependent on allies. Yet they expressed the view that there should be a symbolic representation of all alliance partners. We thought it was not needed," Kumar told reporters here. Kumar was replying to queries on the sidelines of a function where he launched a nationwide membership drive carried out by the JD(U), of which he is the national president. "It is wrong to think that we have any disaffection with the BJP which has led to the decision. We have a different style of working and having a minister or two in the Centre does not matter much to us. We had returned to the NDA in the interests of Bihar and to that end our alliance remains firm," Kumar said. Kumar had snapped 17-year-old ties with the BJP in 2013 in protest against Narendra Modi's appointment as the party's chief for Lok Sabha election campaign which was seen as a precursor to his elevation as the Prime Ministerial candidate. Kumar had till then maintained a distance from his Gujarat counterpart in view of the latter's alleged role in the post-Godhra communal riots. He fought the Lok Sabha polls in alliance with the CPI, losing badly and resigned as Chief Minister taking moral responsibility for the drubbing. Thereafter he formed a coalition with arch rival Lalu Prasad, who heads the RJD, and their alliance with the Congress handsomely won the 2015 assembly polls and the RJD supremo's sons Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav were inducted into the new cabinet headed by Kumar. However, in 2017 a major controversy broke out following lodging of money laundering cases, by central agencies like CBI and ED against Tejashwi who was also the Deputy CM. This led to Kumar walking out of the Grand Alliance and returning to the NDA as the BJP, now joined by Ram Vilas Paswan's LJP, came with offer of support. In the recent general elections, the NDA swept Bihar winning 39 out of 40 seats. The JD(U), which had fought 17 seats, won all but one. Kumar expressed delight over his party earning the status of a "recognized state party" in Arunachal Pradesh. About reports that his party's unit in the neighbouring Jharkhand wanted to fight the assembly polls early next year on its own which would pit the JD(U) against the BJP, Kumar said, "Our national executive will meet tomorrow. Our Jharkhand unit members will also be present. We will take a decision based on their inputs." Despite being an NDA constituent, the JD(U) has maintained that its ties with the BJP were limited to Bihar only and it has contested assembly polls in a number of states ruled by its alliance partner, including Gujarat. Replying to a query about the ghastly killing of a girl child in Aligarh, whose mutilated body was spotted by passersby when it was being dragged by stray dogs, Kumar said, "It is abominable. The guilty must be punished severely."

JD(U) stayed out of Modi government as we felt there was no need for symbolic representation: Nitish

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-is-confident-mexico-will-try-very-hard-to-enforce-new-immigration-deal-225578">Trump says he is confident Mexico will 'try very hard' to enforce new immigration deal</a>

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump on Saturday predicted Mexico would strongly enforce a new deal under which it agreed to expand a controversial asylum program and boost security on its southern border to stem Central American migrants trying to reach the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-is-confident-mexico-will-try-very-hard-to-enforce-new-immigration-deal-225578">Sudan protest group calls nationwide 'civil disobedience'</a>

A key protest group on Saturday announced a nationwide "civil disobedience" campaign in Sudan. The campaign would run until Sudan's ruling generals transfer power to a civilian government, the protest group said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-in-interview-does-not-rule-out-israeli-annexation-in-west-bank-225577">US envoy, in interview, does not rule out Israeli annexation in West Bank</a>

The US ambassador to Israel did not rule out an&nbsp;Israeli&nbsp;move to annex parts of the occupied West Bank, land that the&nbsp;Palestinians&nbsp;seek for a state, in an interview with the New York Times published on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-business-as-usual-at-mexicos-southern-border-despite-trump-deal-225581">It's business as usual at Mexico's southern border despite Trump deal</a>

On Saturday, at the busiest crossing point along Mexico`s porous southern border with Guatemala, evidence of Mexico`s promised crackdown on waves of new arrivals trying to reach the United States was nowhere to be seen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-sri-lanka-today-will-be-personally-received-by-sri-lankan-counterpart-wickremesinghe-in-colombo-225582">PM Modi in Sri Lanka today, will be personally received by Sri Lankan counterpart Wickremesinghe in Colombo</a>

After a day-long visit to the Maldives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a state visit to Sri Lanka on Sunday.&nbsp;The prime minister will be personally received by his Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil Wickremesinghe in Colombo today.&nbsp;

 
 
&nbsp;

Trump says he is confident Mexico will 'try very hard' to enforce new immigration deal US President Donald Trump on Saturday predicted Mexico would strongly enforce a new deal under which it agreed to expand a controversial asylum program and boost security on its southern border to stem Central American migrants trying to reach the United States.

Trump says he is confident Mexico will 'try very hard' to enforce new immigration deal US President Donald Trump on Saturday predicted Mexico would strongly enforce a new deal under which it agreed to expand a controversial asylum program and boost security on its southern border to stem Central American migrants trying to reach the United States. Sudan protest group calls nationwide 'civil disobedience' A key protest group on Saturday announced a nationwide "civil disobedience" campaign in Sudan. The campaign would run until Sudan's ruling generals transfer power to a civilian government, the protest group said. US envoy, in interview, does not rule out Israeli annexation in West Bank The US ambassador to Israel did not rule out an Israeli move to annex parts of the occupied West Bank, land that the Palestinians seek for a state, in an interview with the New York Times published on Saturday. It's business as usual at Mexico's southern border despite Trump deal On Saturday, at the busiest crossing point along Mexico`s porous southern border with Guatemala, evidence of Mexico`s promised crackdown on waves of new arrivals trying to reach the United States was nowhere to be seen. PM Modi in Sri Lanka today, will be personally received by Sri Lankan counterpart Wickremesinghe in Colombo After a day-long visit to the Maldives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a state visit to Sri Lanka on Sunday. The prime minister will be personally received by his Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil Wickremesinghe in Colombo today.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-conferred-with-maldives-highest-honour-accorded-to-foreign-dignitaries-order-of-nishanizzuddeen-225498">state visit to the Maldives</a>, held a flurry of meetings with several leaders of the island nation and discussed various issues to boost <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/focus-on-cricket-diplomacy-as-pm-modi-gifts-bat-to-maldives-president-solih-225524">bilateral cooperation between the two countries</a>.

This is the Prime Minister's first overseas visit after he assumed office for a second term.During the meeting between Modi and Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the two leaders discussed ways to bolster economic and cultural ties between the two countries.

"Had an excellent meeting with President @ibusolih. During our talks, we reviewed the full range of relations between India and the Republic of Maldives. We discussed ways to enhance economic and cultural relations between the citizens of our nations. @presidencymv," Modi tweeted.

The Prime Minister also met former President and Speaker of the Maldivian Parliament, Mohamed Nasheed, and said that "he has always been a strong votary of robust relations between the two nations."

"We had a wonderful meeting in Male, where a wide range of topics were discussed," Modi said.

Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid too held talks with Modi, according to a tweet from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

Modi, who met former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, described the latter as an "extraordinary statesman" who served the country with "great diligence."

"Had fruitful discussions with him on ways to strengthen friendship between India and the Republic of Maldives," he said.

Continuing his diplomatic outreach, the Prime Minister held discussions with Maldivian Vice President Faisal Naseem, where the two leaders talked about steps to strengthen economic cooperation and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

"Mr. @FaisalNasym, the Vice President of the Republic of Maldives held discussions with PM @narendramodi. Ways to boost economic cooperation and people-to-people ties between India and Maldives were discussed during the meeting," a tweet from PMO read.

The Prime Minister held separate meetings with Qasim Ibrahim of Jumhooree Party and Maldivian Home Minister and Adhaalath Party leader Sheikh Imran Abdulla and held fruitful discussions on bolstering bilateral cooperation.Modi arrived in the Maldives on Saturday and received a ceremonial welcome at the Republic Square in Male.

During the visit, he was conferred with 'Nishan Izzuddeen', the Maldives'&nbsp;highest honour accorded to foreign dignitaries.

The Prime Minister then addressed the Maldivian Parliament, or the Majlis, where he touched upon various aspects of bilateral ties between the two nations, the need to eliminate terrorism, working together to combat climate change and other issues.

The two countries signed six agreements for strengthening cooperation in various fields.

They are - MoU for Cooperation in the Field of Hydrography between Indian Navy and Maldives National Defence Force, MoU on Cooperation in the field of Health between Indian and Maldivian governments, MoU for the Establishment of Passenger and Cargo Services by Sea between Ministry of Shipping, Government of India and Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, Government of the Maldives, MoU for Cooperation in Customs Capacity Building between the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs of India and the Maldives Customs Service, MoU between National Centre for Good Governance, Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances and Maldives Civil Service Commission on Training and Capacity Building Programme for Maldivian Civil Servants and Technical Agreement on Sharing White Shipping Information between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force.

Modi will halt in Sri Lanka on his way back, underlining his government's continued commitment towards its 'Neighbourhood First'&nbsp;policy.

The Prime Minister had earlier visited the Maldives in November last year to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Solih, who assumed office after defeating Abdulla Yameen in the presidential polls.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his state visit to the Maldives, held a flurry of meetings with several leaders of the island nation and discussed various issues to boost bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his state visit to the Maldives, held a flurry of meetings with several leaders of the island nation and discussed various issues to boost bilateral cooperation between the two countries. This is the Prime Minister's first overseas visit after he assumed office for a second term.During the meeting between Modi and Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the two leaders discussed ways to bolster economic and cultural ties between the two countries. "Had an excellent meeting with President @ibusolih. During our talks, we reviewed the full range of relations between India and the Republic of Maldives. We discussed ways to enhance economic and cultural relations between the citizens of our nations. @presidencymv," Modi tweeted. The Prime Minister also met former President and Speaker of the Maldivian Parliament, Mohamed Nasheed, and said that "he has always been a strong votary of robust relations between the two nations." "We had a wonderful meeting in Male, where a wide range of topics were discussed," Modi said. Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid too held talks with Modi, according to a tweet from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Modi, who met former Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, described the latter as an "extraordinary statesman" who served the country with "great diligence." "Had fruitful discussions with him on ways to strengthen friendship between India and the Republic of Maldives," he said. Continuing his diplomatic outreach, the Prime Minister held discussions with Maldivian Vice President Faisal Naseem, where the two leaders talked about steps to strengthen economic cooperation and people-to-people ties between the two countries. "Mr. @FaisalNasym, the Vice President of the Republic of Maldives held discussions with PM @narendramodi. Ways to boost economic cooperation and people-to-people ties between India and Maldives were discussed during the meeting," a tweet from PMO read. The Prime Minister held separate meetings with Qasim Ibrahim of Jumhooree Party and Maldivian Home Minister and Adhaalath Party leader Sheikh Imran Abdulla and held fruitful discussions on bolstering bilateral cooperation.Modi arrived in the Maldives on Saturday and received a ceremonial welcome at the Republic Square in Male. During the visit, he was conferred with 'Nishan Izzuddeen', the Maldives' highest honour accorded to foreign dignitaries. The Prime Minister then addressed the Maldivian Parliament, or the Majlis, where he touched upon various aspects of bilateral ties between the two nations, the need to eliminate terrorism, working together to combat climate change and other issues. The two countries signed six agreements for strengthening cooperation in various fields. They are - MoU for Cooperation in the Field of Hydrography between Indian Navy and Maldives National Defence Force, MoU on Cooperation in the field of Health between Indian and Maldivian governments, MoU for the Establishment of Passenger and Cargo Services by Sea between Ministry of Shipping, Government of India and Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, Government of the Maldives, MoU for Cooperation in Customs Capacity Building between the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs of India and the Maldives Customs Service, MoU between National Centre for Good Governance, Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances and Maldives Civil Service Commission on Training and Capacity Building Programme for Maldivian Civil Servants and Technical Agreement on Sharing White Shipping Information between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force. Modi will halt in Sri Lanka on his way back, underlining his government's continued commitment towards its 'Neighbourhood First' policy. The Prime Minister had earlier visited the Maldives in November last year to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Solih, who assumed office after defeating Abdulla Yameen in the presidential polls.

In Maldives, PM Modi held talks with leaders to boost bilateral ties

Following the reports of violence from West Bengal in which 4 people were reportedly killed on Saturday, Centre has expressed deep concern over the continuing violence in the state even after the conclusion of the Lok Sabha polls and issued an advisory to the State Government on Sunday.

MHA issues advisory to West Bengal government over continuing violence

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for anyone providing credible information about the location of its missing transport aircraft AN 32.

After no breakthrough, IAF announces Rs 5 lakh reward for info about missing aircraft AN 32

India has requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13 and June 14, said a senior government official.

Pakistan had fully closed its airspace on February 26 after an Indian Air Force (IAF) strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11.

"We have requested Pakistan to let the PM's plane fly over its airspace through one of the routes that has not been opened as yet. The PM has to attend the SCO meet on June 13 and June 14," a senior government official said.

Pakistan had given special permission to India's then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21.

Apart from the two routes through southern Pakistan, the neighbouring country's airspace remains closed for commercial airliners.

The IAF announced on May 31 that all temporary restrictions imposed on Indian airspace post the Balakot airstrike have been removed. However, it is unlikely to benefit any commercial airliners unless Pakistan reciprocates and opens its complete airspace.

Among Indian airlines, the international operations of Air India and IndiGo have been affected by the closure of Pakistani airspace.

IndiGo, India's largest airline by a share in the domestic passenger market, has been unable to start direct flights from Delhi to Istanbul due to the closure of Pakistani airspace.

The low-cost carrier started the Delhi-Istanbul flight in March this year. It has to take the longer route every time over the Arabian Sea and make a stop either at Doha in Qatar or at Ahmedabad in Gujarat for refuelling.

Similarly, full-service carrier Air India is unable to fly non-stop flights from Delhi to the US since the closure of Pakistani airspace.

India has requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13 and June 14, said a senior government official.

India has requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13 and June 14, said a senior government official. Pakistan had fully closed its airspace on February 26 after an Indian Air Force (IAF) strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11. "We have requested Pakistan to let the PM's plane fly over its airspace through one of the routes that has not been opened as yet. The PM has to attend the SCO meet on June 13 and June 14," a senior government official said. Pakistan had given special permission to India's then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21. Apart from the two routes through southern Pakistan, the neighbouring country's airspace remains closed for commercial airliners. The IAF announced on May 31 that all temporary restrictions imposed on Indian airspace post the Balakot airstrike have been removed. However, it is unlikely to benefit any commercial airliners unless Pakistan reciprocates and opens its complete airspace. Among Indian airlines, the international operations of Air India and IndiGo have been affected by the closure of Pakistani airspace. IndiGo, India's largest airline by a share in the domestic passenger market, has been unable to start direct flights from Delhi to Istanbul due to the closure of Pakistani airspace. The low-cost carrier started the Delhi-Istanbul flight in March this year. It has to take the longer route every time over the Arabian Sea and make a stop either at Doha in Qatar or at Ahmedabad in Gujarat for refuelling. Similarly, full-service carrier Air India is unable to fly non-stop flights from Delhi to the US since the closure of Pakistani airspace.

India requests Pakistan to let PM Modi's flight pass through its airspace during Kyrgyzstan visit

PM Modi addresses a public meeting at Tirupati. To know more watch the video

PM Modi returns from Sri Lanka, address rally in Tirupati

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said he had come to Tirupati to seek blessings of Lord Venkateswara after forming the new government.

"I have had the good fortune to come to Tirupati many times in the past too, I have come here to take the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara after forming the new government. I want the Lord to bless us so that we can fulfil the dreams of 130 crore Indians together," Modi said at a public meeting here.

PM Modi thanked the people of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu for participating in the elections and forming the government of their choice in the two states.

"I want to thank the people of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu for participating in the festival of democracy, whether we won or not is irrelevant, we just want to serve. I want to thank the people for upholding democracy," he said.

Modi added that all BJP 'karyakartas'&nbsp;including himself were servants of the nation and added that even when the party wasn't able to win seats in the municipality elections, they had always raised the slogan of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai'.

"We are not electoral organisms, we are committed to providing safety, security and growth to the people of the country, this goes for every BJP worker across the nation. This is why the voters elected us to power for a second time," he said.

"We will work especially hard for Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. I want to give my best wishes to Jaganmohan Reddyji, he too will take Andhra Pradesh forward, I want to assure that Indian government will always be there for the people of Andhra," Modi promised.

Earlier, PM Modi was welcomed by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YSR Jaganmohan Reddy at the Tirupati Airport on his arrival from Colombo on Sunday.

Andhra Pradesh Governor ESL Narasimhan and five deputy chief ministers in the newly elected Reddy government along with other leaders were also present to welcome the Prime Minister who was returning after his two-nation trip to the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

The YSRCP leader and newly elected CM received a pat on the back from PM Modi after he tried to touch the latter`s feet twice.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said he had come to Tirupati to seek blessings of Lord Venkateswara after forming the new government. "I have had the good fortune to come to Tirupati many times in the past too, I have come here to take the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara after forming the new government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said he had come to Tirupati to seek blessings of Lord Venkateswara after forming the new government. "I have had the good fortune to come to Tirupati many times in the past too, I have come here to take the blessings of Lord Venkateshwara after forming the new government. I want the Lord to bless us so that we can fulfil the dreams of 130 crore Indians together," Modi said at a public meeting here. PM Modi thanked the people of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu for participating in the elections and forming the government of their choice in the two states. "I want to thank the people of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu for participating in the festival of democracy, whether we won or not is irrelevant, we just want to serve. I want to thank the people for upholding democracy," he said. Modi added that all BJP 'karyakartas' including himself were servants of the nation and added that even when the party wasn't able to win seats in the municipality elections, they had always raised the slogan of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai'. "We are not electoral organisms, we are committed to providing safety, security and growth to the people of the country, this goes for every BJP worker across the nation. This is why the voters elected us to power for a second time," he said. "We will work especially hard for Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. I want to give my best wishes to Jaganmohan Reddyji, he too will take Andhra Pradesh forward, I want to assure that Indian government will always be there for the people of Andhra," Modi promised. Earlier, PM Modi was welcomed by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YSR Jaganmohan Reddy at the Tirupati Airport on his arrival from Colombo on Sunday. Andhra Pradesh Governor ESL Narasimhan and five deputy chief ministers in the newly elected Reddy government along with other leaders were also present to welcome the Prime Minister who was returning after his two-nation trip to the Maldives and Sri Lanka. The YSRCP leader and newly elected CM received a pat on the back from PM Modi after he tried to touch the latter`s feet twice.

The country saw our dedication and gave us a second chance: PM Modi in Tirupati

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-sends-powerful-message-against-terror-as-he-wraps-up-two-nation-visit-to-maldives-and-sri-lanka-225692">PM Modi sends powerful message against terror as he wraps up two-nation visit to Maldives and Sri Lanka&nbsp;</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region. This was Modi's first visit abroad in the second term and symbolic in several ways.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-here-to-watch-the-game-says-vijay-mallya-spotted-at-oval-for-indvaus-world-cup-encounter-225680">'I am here to watch the game', says Vijay Mallya spotted at Oval for INDvAUS World Cup encounter</a>

'Fugitive economic offender' Vijay Mallya, who is facing extradition proceedings in UK, was seen attending India`s World Cup cricket match against Australia at the Kennington Oval in London on Sunday, reported news agency ANI.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/contribute-to-indias-development-modi-tells-diaspora-in-sri-lanka-225663">Contribute to India's growth: Prime Minister Modi tells diaspora in Sri Lanka&nbsp;</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged the Indian diaspora to contribute to India's growth and said the country`s image had changed a lot in the last few years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-president-maithripala-sirisena-warns-against-emergence-of-a-muslim-prabhakaran-225709">Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena warns against emergence of a 'Muslim Prabhakaran'</a>

Warning against the emergence of a "Muslim Prabhakaran", Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has called for unity among all communities in the country which saw the worst terror attack on Easter Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-thousands-march-in-hong-kong-to-protest-china-extradition-bill-225659">Hundreds of thousands march in Hong Kong to protest China extradition bill</a>

Several hundred thousand people jammed Hong Kong's streets on Sunday in the last bid to thwart a proposed extradition law that would allow suspects to be sent to China to face trial, with police bracing for the biggest march in the city in 15 years. 
&nbsp;

PM Modi sends powerful message against terror as he wraps up two-nation visit to Maldives and Sri Lanka Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region.

PM Modi sends powerful message against terror as he wraps up two-nation visit to Maldives and Sri Lanka Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region. This was Modi's first visit abroad in the second term and symbolic in several ways. 'I am here to watch the game', says Vijay Mallya spotted at Oval for INDvAUS World Cup encounter 'Fugitive economic offender' Vijay Mallya, who is facing extradition proceedings in UK, was seen attending India`s World Cup cricket match against Australia at the Kennington Oval in London on Sunday, reported news agency ANI. Contribute to India's growth: Prime Minister Modi tells diaspora in Sri Lanka Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged the Indian diaspora to contribute to India's growth and said the country`s image had changed a lot in the last few years. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena warns against emergence of a 'Muslim Prabhakaran' Warning against the emergence of a "Muslim Prabhakaran", Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has called for unity among all communities in the country which saw the worst terror attack on Easter Sunday. Hundreds of thousands march in Hong Kong to protest China extradition bill Several hundred thousand people jammed Hong Kong's streets on Sunday in the last bid to thwart a proposed extradition law that would allow suspects to be sent to China to face trial, with police bracing for the biggest march in the city in 15 years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pm-modis-visit-to-sri-lanka-and-the-maldives-bolsters-long-term-maritime-strategy-for-india-225515"> two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka</a> stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region. This was Modi's first visit abroad in the second term and symbolic in several ways.

Counter-terror was a subject PM raised both in the Maldives and in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

In a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/contribute-to-indias-development-modi-tells-diaspora-in-sri-lanka-225663">strong message of solidarity to terror-hit Sri Lanka</a>, Modi's first stop in the country was the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-message-of-solidarity-to-sri-lanka-pm-modi-visits-terror-hit-st-anthonys-church-in-colombo-225623">St Anthony's church in Kochchikade</a>. The church was the site of one of the terror attacks on April 21.&nbsp;

Over 93 people died in the Chruch in the Easter Sunday coordinated attacks that killed more than 250 people. "I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka," Modi tweeted immediately after his visit.

"My heart goes out to the families of the victims and the injured," He added.

Modi is the first head of any government to visit the island nation after the terror attacks.&nbsp;

Watch: How is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit perceived in Sri Lanka

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-maldives-pm-modi-held-talks-with-leaders-to-boost-bilateral-ties-225585">In the Maldives, Modi</a> called for an international conference on terror, saying "The water is now rising above the head".&nbsp;

India had proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism or CCIT in 1996 that called for a common definition for terror but the draft has remained a draft because of lack of consensus at the United Nations.

Without mentioning Pakistan PM said, "State sponsorship of terrorism is the biggest threat the world is facing today".

"Terrorism is not just a threat for a country, but to the entire civilisation. It is very unfortunate that people are still making the mistake of distinguishing between good terrorists and bad terrorists," Modi further said.

New Delhi's actions on terror in the past had the backing of both Sri Lanka and the Maldives.&nbsp;

India and Maldives both agreed to set up a Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism, Countering Violent Extremism and De-radicalisation.

Meanwhile, the mention of Indo-Pacific by PM Modi in the Maldivian Parliament is something that will not go unnoticed in several world capitals including Beijing which sees the concept very suspiciously.&nbsp;

Calling for a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific", PM said, "India will not only use its strength to strengthen its own nation but also its neighbours and their bright future."&nbsp;

"The maldives will be a great partner for" India's vision for Indo Pacific as both are "neighbours and friends," he added.

This is the second time, PM Modi has publically addressed the concept from an international forum. Last year PM spoke about Indo-Pacific at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore.

With increased Chinese influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region, India is keen to engage with its maritime neighbours such as Mauritius, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Seychelles.&nbsp;

To boost connectivity a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between Kochi and Kulhudhuffushi in Malé was inaugurated during Modi's visit.

Sri Lanka

For Sri Lanka India has provided 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils), ambulances and rolling stock for railways. India is also working with Japan and Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port.&nbsp;

Modi's Sri Lanka visit was short and packed but saw him meeting the top leadership of the country and interact with the Indian community.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region. This was Modi's first visit abroad in the second term and symbolic in several ways. Counter-terror was a subject PM raised both in the Maldives and in Sri Lanka. In a strong message of solidarity to terror-hit Sri Lanka, Modi's first stop in the country was the St Anthony's church in Kochchikade. The church was the site of one of the terror attacks on April 21. Over 93 people died in the Chruch in the Easter Sunday coordinated attacks that killed more than 250 people. "I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka," Modi tweeted immediately after his visit. "My heart goes out to the families of the victims and the injured," He added. Modi is the first head of any government to visit the island nation after the terror attacks. Watch: How is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit perceived in Sri Lanka × In the Maldives, Modi called for an international conference on terror, saying "The water is now rising above the head". India had proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism or CCIT in 1996 that called for a common definition for terror but the draft has remained a draft because of lack of consensus at the United Nations. Without mentioning Pakistan PM said, "State sponsorship of terrorism is the biggest threat the world is facing today". "Terrorism is not just a threat for a country, but to the entire civilisation. It is very unfortunate that people are still making the mistake of distinguishing between good terrorists and bad terrorists," Modi further said. New Delhi's actions on terror in the past had the backing of both Sri Lanka and the Maldives. India and Maldives both agreed to set up a Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism, Countering Violent Extremism and De-radicalisation. Meanwhile, the mention of Indo-Pacific by PM Modi in the Maldivian Parliament is something that will not go unnoticed in several world capitals including Beijing which sees the concept very suspiciously. Calling for a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific", PM said, "India will not only use its strength to strengthen its own nation but also its neighbours and their bright future." "The maldives will be a great partner for" India's vision for Indo Pacific as both are "neighbours and friends," he added. This is the second time, PM Modi has publically addressed the concept from an international forum. Last year PM spoke about Indo-Pacific at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore. With increased Chinese influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region, India is keen to engage with its maritime neighbours such as Mauritius, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Seychelles. To boost connectivity a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between Kochi and Kulhudhuffushi in Malé was inaugurated during Modi's visit. Sri Lanka For Sri Lanka India has provided 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils), ambulances and rolling stock for railways. India is also working with Japan and Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. Modi's Sri Lanka visit was short and packed but saw him meeting the top leadership of the country and interact with the Indian community.

PM Modi sends powerful message against terror as he wraps up two-nation visit to Maldives and Sri Lanka 

Months after the Balakot air strikes, the government decided to fast-track integration of the Brahmos supersonic cruise missile on over 40 Sukhoi fighter jets, a closely guarded strategic project aimed at bolstering combat capability of the Indian Air Force, official sources said Sunday.

They said the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and the BrahMos Aerospace Ltd were told to expedite implementation of the project so that it can be completed much before the scheduled deadline of December 2020.

In 2016, the government had decided to integrate the air-launched variant of the Brahmos, the world's fastest supersonic cruise missile, into over 40 Sukhoi fighter jets.&nbsp;

Though actual work on the project started by the end of 2017, its implementation has been very slow, the sources said.

A review on ways to strengthen the IAF was carried out in the backdrop of the Balakot air strikes and subsequent Pakistani retaliation and it was felt that the early integration of Brahmos on Sukhoi jet should be a priority, they said.

It was felt that the planned induction of Rafale aircraft with deadly Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM), procurement of S-400 air defence missile system and integration of Brahmos on Sukhoi will provide India with a significant advantage over Pakistani Air Force.

There was a view in the IAF that if it possessed high levels of "technological asymmetry", then it would have been able to inflict heavy damage on Pakistan during the adversary's unsuccessful aerial raid on February 27.

The government is undertaking several measures to strengthen the IAF's combat prowess, the sources said, adding the HAL has been specifically told to put additional manpower and resources to fast-track the Brahmos project.

Once the project to integrate the weapon on the combat fleet was over, the IAF's capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target in sea or land is expected to go up manifold.

The missile coupled with the superlative performance of the Sukhoi aircraft will give the IAF a strategic reach and will allow it to dominate the ocean and the battlefields, according to an assessment by the IAF.

The air-launched variant of the Brahmos was successfully test fired from a Sukhoi-30 combat jet on November 22, 2017, marking a major milestone to enhance the precision strike capability of the air force.

A fleet of 40 Sukhoi jet is undergoing structural modifications at the state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) for the integration of the missile on them.

The 2.5-ton missile flies almost three times the speed of sound at Mach 2.8 and has a range of 290 km.

The range of the missile, an Indo-Russia joint venture, can be extended up to 400 km as certain technical restrictions were lifted after India became a full member of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) last year.

Brahmos missile is the heaviest weapon to be deployed on India's Su-30 fighter aircraft.

The integration of the missile on Sukhoi aircraft is a very complex process involving mechanical, electrical and software modifications of the Su-30 jet, officials said.&nbsp;

Months after the Balakot air strikes, the government decided to fast-track integration of the Brahmos supersonic cruise missile on over 40 Sukhoi fighter jets, a closely guarded strategic project aimed at bolstering combat capability of the Indian Air Force, official sources said Sunday.

Months after the Balakot air strikes, the government decided to fast-track integration of the Brahmos supersonic cruise missile on over 40 Sukhoi fighter jets, a closely guarded strategic project aimed at bolstering combat capability of the Indian Air Force, official sources said Sunday. They said the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and the BrahMos Aerospace Ltd were told to expedite implementation of the project so that it can be completed much before the scheduled deadline of December 2020. In 2016, the government had decided to integrate the air-launched variant of the Brahmos, the world's fastest supersonic cruise missile, into over 40 Sukhoi fighter jets. Though actual work on the project started by the end of 2017, its implementation has been very slow, the sources said. A review on ways to strengthen the IAF was carried out in the backdrop of the Balakot air strikes and subsequent Pakistani retaliation and it was felt that the early integration of Brahmos on Sukhoi jet should be a priority, they said. It was felt that the planned induction of Rafale aircraft with deadly Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM), procurement of S-400 air defence missile system and integration of Brahmos on Sukhoi will provide India with a significant advantage over Pakistani Air Force. There was a view in the IAF that if it possessed high levels of "technological asymmetry", then it would have been able to inflict heavy damage on Pakistan during the adversary's unsuccessful aerial raid on February 27. The government is undertaking several measures to strengthen the IAF's combat prowess, the sources said, adding the HAL has been specifically told to put additional manpower and resources to fast-track the Brahmos project. Once the project to integrate the weapon on the combat fleet was over, the IAF's capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target in sea or land is expected to go up manifold. The missile coupled with the superlative performance of the Sukhoi aircraft will give the IAF a strategic reach and will allow it to dominate the ocean and the battlefields, according to an assessment by the IAF. The air-launched variant of the Brahmos was successfully test fired from a Sukhoi-30 combat jet on November 22, 2017, marking a major milestone to enhance the precision strike capability of the air force. A fleet of 40 Sukhoi jet is undergoing structural modifications at the state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) for the integration of the missile on them. The 2.5-ton missile flies almost three times the speed of sound at Mach 2.8 and has a range of 290 km. The range of the missile, an Indo-Russia joint venture, can be extended up to 400 km as certain technical restrictions were lifted after India became a full member of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) last year. Brahmos missile is the heaviest weapon to be deployed on India's Su-30 fighter aircraft. The integration of the missile on Sukhoi aircraft is a very complex process involving mechanical, electrical and software modifications of the Su-30 jet, officials said.

Integration of Brahmos missiles on Sukhoi jets to be fast-tracked

Tension prevailed on Sunday in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-5-dead-as-bjp-trinamool-congress-clash-in-basirhat-225589">strife-affected Sandeshkhali in West Bengal</a>'s North 24 Parganas, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress accusing each other of orchestrating Saturday's violence that allegedly claimed at least four lives.

A huge contingent of police officers has been deployed in the village and its surrounding areas under the Nyajat police station in the district, where the violence broke out in the evening, to prevent the tension from escalating.

While the BJP leadership on Sunday claimed that five of its supporters were killed in the clash, the TMC said that six of its workers were missing. 
The bodies of one TMC worker and two BJP supporters have been identified by family members at a local hospital.

As of Sunday morning, police are carrying out search operations to trace the persons alleged to have gone missing in what has been deemed as the "worst political violence" following the 2019 general election.

State BJP general secretary Sayantan Basu Saturday said three of his party workers -- Sukanta Mondal, Pradip Mondal and Shankar Mondal -- have been shot dead, while state minister Jyotipriyo Mallick maintained that TMC worker Kayoom Mollah has been killed in the clash.

In claims and counter-claims over the political fallout, both the parties have stated that several of their workers have gone missing.

Continuing his tirade against the ruling party, BJP leader Mukul Roy, who is scheduled to lead a seven-member delegation of party MPs to the violence-hit area on Sunday, accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of instigating political strife in Bengal through her speeches and meetings.

He also maintained that "five members of the saffron party were killed and several others went missing" during the clashes at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district.

Speaking to reporters at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport here on his arrival from Delhi, Roy alleged that local TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh has masterminded the attack on BJP workers.

The state Food and Supplies minister, on the other hand, said his party apprehended that the "missing workers" might have been killed.

Mallick, who is also leading a party delegation comprising state ministers to Sandeshkhali, told PTI, "We apprehend that six TMC workers have been killed and their bodies dumped in the water."

He alleged that it was the BJP workers who had attacked TMC supporters during a procession, and accused the saffron party of bringing in outsiders to foment trouble.

The minister also asserted that the BJP workers were killed from bullets fired by their "own people" and denied that TMC men were involved in their deaths.

Contending that his party wants "peace to prevail", Mallick said that he has asked his partymen not to hold any meeting or procession without the district leadership's permission.

Sources in the TMC and the BJP had claimed on Saturday that the clashes broke out over the removal of saffron party flags in the area.

Local people said several shops and houses were vandalised during the violence, which broke out during a TMC procession.

Tension prevailed on Sunday in strife-affected Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress accusing each other of orchestrating Saturday's violence that allegedly claimed at least four lives.

Tension prevailed on Sunday in strife-affected Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas, with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Trinamool Congress accusing each other of orchestrating Saturday's violence that allegedly claimed at least four lives. A huge contingent of police officers has been deployed in the village and its surrounding areas under the Nyajat police station in the district, where the violence broke out in the evening, to prevent the tension from escalating. While the BJP leadership on Sunday claimed that five of its supporters were killed in the clash, the TMC said that six of its workers were missing. The bodies of one TMC worker and two BJP supporters have been identified by family members at a local hospital. As of Sunday morning, police are carrying out search operations to trace the persons alleged to have gone missing in what has been deemed as the "worst political violence" following the 2019 general election. State BJP general secretary Sayantan Basu Saturday said three of his party workers -- Sukanta Mondal, Pradip Mondal and Shankar Mondal -- have been shot dead, while state minister Jyotipriyo Mallick maintained that TMC worker Kayoom Mollah has been killed in the clash. In claims and counter-claims over the political fallout, both the parties have stated that several of their workers have gone missing. Continuing his tirade against the ruling party, BJP leader Mukul Roy, who is scheduled to lead a seven-member delegation of party MPs to the violence-hit area on Sunday, accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of instigating political strife in Bengal through her speeches and meetings. He also maintained that "five members of the saffron party were killed and several others went missing" during the clashes at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district. Speaking to reporters at the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport here on his arrival from Delhi, Roy alleged that local TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh has masterminded the attack on BJP workers. The state Food and Supplies minister, on the other hand, said his party apprehended that the "missing workers" might have been killed. Mallick, who is also leading a party delegation comprising state ministers to Sandeshkhali, told PTI, "We apprehend that six TMC workers have been killed and their bodies dumped in the water." He alleged that it was the BJP workers who had attacked TMC supporters during a procession, and accused the saffron party of bringing in outsiders to foment trouble. The minister also asserted that the BJP workers were killed from bullets fired by their "own people" and denied that TMC men were involved in their deaths. Contending that his party wants "peace to prevail", Mallick said that he has asked his partymen not to hold any meeting or procession without the district leadership's permission. Sources in the TMC and the BJP had claimed on Saturday that the clashes broke out over the removal of saffron party flags in the area. Local people said several shops and houses were vandalised during the violence, which broke out during a TMC procession.

Tension prevails in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, police looking for 'missing' persons

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged the Indian diaspora to contribute to India's growth&nbsp;and said the country`s image had changed a lot in the last few years.

&nbsp;Modi was addressing the Indian community in Sri Lanka at India House in Colombo during his one-day state visit to the island nation.

''Today India’s position in the world is getting stronger and a large part of that credit goes to the Indian diaspora. Wherever I go, I'm told about the successes and accomplishments of the Indian diaspora,'' Modi said during his address.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Celebrating the spirit of India with the Indian commuunity 
 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> interacted with members of the enthusiastic Indian Community in Sri Lanka at India House. Emphasised the important role played by the community in strengthening our bilateral relations. <a href="https://t.co/VoGEe3D4wF">pic.twitter.com/VoGEe3D4wF</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1137662640220590081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi said that he was happy that the Indian community overseas and the Government of India were on the same page when it came to several issues.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister also vowed to fulfil the dreams and aspirations of every Indian.&nbsp;

Modi greeted the people of Indian diaspora after his address at India House in Colombo.

Earlier, Modi met Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation in Colombo.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged the Indian diaspora to contribute to India's growth and said the country`s image had changed a lot in the last few years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged the Indian diaspora to contribute to India's growth and said the country`s image had changed a lot in the last few years. Modi was addressing the Indian community in Sri Lanka at India House in Colombo during his one-day state visit to the island nation. ''Today India’s position in the world is getting stronger and a large part of that credit goes to the Indian diaspora. Wherever I go, I'm told about the successes and accomplishments of the Indian diaspora,'' Modi said during his address. Celebrating the spirit of India with the Indian commuunity PM @narendramodi interacted with members of the enthusiastic Indian Community in Sri Lanka at India House. Emphasised the important role played by the community in strengthening our bilateral relations. pic.twitter.com/VoGEe3D4wF — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) June 9, 2019 × Modi said that he was happy that the Indian community overseas and the Government of India were on the same page when it came to several issues. The Prime Minister also vowed to fulfil the dreams and aspirations of every Indian. Modi greeted the people of Indian diaspora after his address at India House in Colombo. Earlier, Modi met Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation in Colombo.

Contribute to India's growth: Prime Minister Modi tells diaspora in Sri Lanka 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday met with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and the two leaders discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest, reported news agency PTI.

Indian prime minister is the first foreign leader to visit the island nation after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-message-of-solidarity-to-sri-lanka-pm-modi-visits-terror-hit-st-anthonys-church-in-colombo-225623">Easter attacks</a> in which more than 250 people were killed. His visit is considered as a sign of India's affirmation of solidarity with Sri Lanka in the aftermath of the deadly Easter terror attacks in April.

"PM @narendramodi and President of Sri Lanka @MaithripalaS discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest. A banquet was hosted in honour of PM by President @MaithripalaS #Neighbourhoodfirst," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

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Reinforcing partnership 
 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President of Sri Lanka <a href="https://twitter.com/MaithripalaS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MaithripalaS</a> discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest. A banquet was hosted in honour of PM by President <a href="https://twitter.com/MaithripalaS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MaithripalaS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Neighbourhoodfirst?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Neighbourhoodfirst</a> <a href="https://t.co/lrz7jTuNdf">pic.twitter.com/lrz7jTuNdf</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1137638717454086144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi was accorded a ceremonial reception at the President's House. Sri Lankan President Sirisena was seen holding an umbrella and providing cover to himself and Prime Minister Modi from rain.

Earlier, Modi visited a Catholic church - one of the sites of the horrific <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-sri-lanka-today-will-be-personally-received-by-sri-lankan-counterpart-wickremesinghe-in-colombo-225582">Easter Sunday attacks</a> - soon after his arrival in Sri Lanka and paid tributes to the victims of the deadly terror strikes, saying "cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka".

Prime Minister Modi's entourage made a detour to St Anthony's church on their way to the Presidential Secretariat.

"I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka," said Modi, the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter attacks in April.

Modi arrived in Colombo from Maldives where he held wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Saturday.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday met with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and the two leaders discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest, reported news agency PTI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday met with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and the two leaders discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest, reported news agency PTI. Indian prime minister is the first foreign leader to visit the island nation after the Easter attacks in which more than 250 people were killed. His visit is considered as a sign of India's affirmation of solidarity with Sri Lanka in the aftermath of the deadly Easter terror attacks in April. "PM @narendramodi and President of Sri Lanka @MaithripalaS discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest. A banquet was hosted in honour of PM by President @MaithripalaS #Neighbourhoodfirst," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Reinforcing partnership PM @narendramodi and President of Sri Lanka @MaithripalaS discussed bilateral issues of mutual interest. A banquet was hosted in honour of PM by President @MaithripalaS #Neighbourhoodfirst pic.twitter.com/lrz7jTuNdf — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) June 9, 2019 × Modi was accorded a ceremonial reception at the President's House. Sri Lankan President Sirisena was seen holding an umbrella and providing cover to himself and Prime Minister Modi from rain. Earlier, Modi visited a Catholic church - one of the sites of the horrific Easter Sunday attacks - soon after his arrival in Sri Lanka and paid tributes to the victims of the deadly terror strikes, saying "cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka". Prime Minister Modi's entourage made a detour to St Anthony's church on their way to the Presidential Secretariat. "I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka," said Modi, the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter attacks in April. Modi arrived in Colombo from Maldives where he held wide-ranging talks with Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Saturday.

PM Modi discusses bilateral issues of mutual interest with Lankan President Sirisena 

&nbsp;It was a special moment for 72-year-old Rajamma Vavathil, a retired nurse when Congress president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-to-visit-his-parliamentary-constituency-wayanad-today-225162">Rahul Gandhi</a> hugged and held her hand here on Sunday, 49 years after she took him in her hands like a newborn at a Delhi hospital.

Vavathil could not contain her happiness and excitement at meeting Gandhi, whose birth she had witnessed, as a grown-up man and the Member of Parliament from her Wayanad constituency in Kerala.

The Gandhi scion hugged her and held her hand when Vavathil and her family came to meet him at a guest house here in the morning.

Amidst his busy schedule, Gandhi, on a Thanksgiving visit to Wayanad, which has sent him to Parliament this time with a massive victory margin of 4.31 lakh votes, spent some time with Vavathil's family.

Besides, the Congress chief obliged some party workers and their kin by posing for photographs with them.

As a trainee nurse, Vavathil had taken care of Gandhi at Delhi's Holy Family Hospital after his birth on June 19, 1970.

The Congress chief also greeted Vavathil's family members, including her husband and grandchildren, who waited for hours to meet him.

When Vavathil recalled her memories of witnessing his birth and taking him in her hands like a newborn, Gandhi listened to her attentively with a smile on his face.

Before leaving, Vavathil gifted home-made jackfruit chips and sweets to the Congress chief, who, in turn, promised to meet her again.

An excited Vavathil later said she was really happy to meet Gandhi after all these years.

"I am really happy and excited. I was the first among the few who took Rahul as a newborn in their hands. All those memories gushed through my mind when I met him again," she told reporters.

"I felt, I should give him some gift. That is why I gave him sweets and chips made by myself," the retired nurse said.

When the controversy over Gandhi's citizenship came up during the Lok Sabha election campaign, Vavathil had said she was one of those who were on duty at the Holy Family Hospital on June 19, 1970, when the Congress chief was born.

She had also said she was among the first few to take newborn Rahul in her hands.

"I was lucky as I was the first among the few who took the newborn in their hands. He was so cute. I was witness to his birth. I was thrilled...We all were thrilled to see the grandson of (then) prime minister Indira Gandhi," Vavathil had said.

Rahul Gandhi's father Rajiv Gandhi and uncle Sanjay Gandhi were waiting outside the labour room of the hospital when his mother Sonia Gandhi was taken for delivery, she had recounted.

Vavathil, who completed her nursing course from the Holy Family Hospital, later joined the military as a nurse.

After taking voluntary retirement from service, she returned to Kerala in 1987 and is now settled in Kalloor, near Sulthan Bathery in Wayanad.&nbsp;

It was a special moment for 72-year-old Rajamma Vavathil, a retired nurse when Congress president Rahul Gandhi hugged and held her hand here on Sunday, 49 years after she took him in her hands like a newborn at a Delhi hospital.

It was a special moment for 72-year-old Rajamma Vavathil, a retired nurse when Congress president Rahul Gandhi hugged and held her hand here on Sunday, 49 years after she took him in her hands like a newborn at a Delhi hospital. Vavathil could not contain her happiness and excitement at meeting Gandhi, whose birth she had witnessed, as a grown-up man and the Member of Parliament from her Wayanad constituency in Kerala. The Gandhi scion hugged her and held her hand when Vavathil and her family came to meet him at a guest house here in the morning. Amidst his busy schedule, Gandhi, on a Thanksgiving visit to Wayanad, which has sent him to Parliament this time with a massive victory margin of 4.31 lakh votes, spent some time with Vavathil's family. Besides, the Congress chief obliged some party workers and their kin by posing for photographs with them. As a trainee nurse, Vavathil had taken care of Gandhi at Delhi's Holy Family Hospital after his birth on June 19, 1970. The Congress chief also greeted Vavathil's family members, including her husband and grandchildren, who waited for hours to meet him. When Vavathil recalled her memories of witnessing his birth and taking him in her hands like a newborn, Gandhi listened to her attentively with a smile on his face. Before leaving, Vavathil gifted home-made jackfruit chips and sweets to the Congress chief, who, in turn, promised to meet her again. An excited Vavathil later said she was really happy to meet Gandhi after all these years. "I am really happy and excited. I was the first among the few who took Rahul as a newborn in their hands. All those memories gushed through my mind when I met him again," she told reporters. "I felt, I should give him some gift. That is why I gave him sweets and chips made by myself," the retired nurse said. When the controversy over Gandhi's citizenship came up during the Lok Sabha election campaign, Vavathil had said she was one of those who were on duty at the Holy Family Hospital on June 19, 1970, when the Congress chief was born. She had also said she was among the first few to take newborn Rahul in her hands. "I was lucky as I was the first among the few who took the newborn in their hands. He was so cute. I was witness to his birth. I was thrilled...We all were thrilled to see the grandson of (then) prime minister Indira Gandhi," Vavathil had said. Rahul Gandhi's father Rajiv Gandhi and uncle Sanjay Gandhi were waiting outside the labour room of the hospital when his mother Sonia Gandhi was taken for delivery, she had recounted. Vavathil, who completed her nursing course from the Holy Family Hospital, later joined the military as a nurse. After taking voluntary retirement from service, she returned to Kerala in 1987 and is now settled in Kalloor, near Sulthan Bathery in Wayanad.

Rahul Gandhi meets Kerala nurse who held him in her hands as a baby

Imports from Pakistan declined by 92 per cent to $2.84 million in March this year after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/customs-duty-on-all-goods-imported-from-pakistan-hiked-to-200-arun-jaitley-197808">imposition of 200 per cent customs duties </a>on all products following Pulwama terror attack.

On February 16 this year, taking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mfn-status-to-pakistan-what-it-means-how-it-impacts-trade-197569">strong economic action against Pakistan</a> following the attack, India raised the customs duty to 200 per cent on all goods imported from the neighbouring country, including cotton, fresh fruits, cement, petroleum products and mineral ore.

According to the data of the commerce ministry, the imports from the neighbouring country stood at $34.61 million in March 2018. Out of the $2.84 million imports in March, as much as $1.19 million was accounted for cotton import by India.

According to experts, certain domestic manufacturing exporters could be availing nil import duty benefit under advance authorisation scheme to import products, especially raw materials from Pakistan, as it would not be viable for anyone to import goods at 200 per cent customs duties.

The main commodities imported during the month from the neighbouring country include plastics, knitted fabrics, preparation of vegetables, articles of apparel and clothing, spices, chemicals, man-made filaments, and wool.

During the January-March period of 2018-19 fiscal, the imports from Pakistan declined by 47 per cent to $53.65 million.

India's exports to Pakistan too have dipped by about 32 per cent to $171.34 million in March. However, the exports grew by 7.4 per cent to $2 billion during 2018-19.

The main products being exported by India include organic chemicals; cotton; nuclear reactors, boilers; plastic products; tanning or dyeing extracts; cereals; sugar; coffee, tea; articles of iron and steel; copper and footwear.

India had also revoked the MFN (most favoured nation) status to Pakistan in the aftermath of the terror attack. The country has repealed a security exception clause of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to withdraw this status. Both countries are a member of this body.

India can also restrict the trade of certain goods and impose port-related restrictions on Pakistani goods. India had granted the MFN status to Pakistan way back in 1996, but the neighbouring country had not reciprocated.

Under the MFN pact, a WTO member country is obliged to treat the other trading nation in a non-discriminatory manner, especially with regard to customs duty and other levies.

Forty CRPF personnel were killed in a vehicle-borne IED attack on November 14, 2018, at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. This was one of the deadliest terror attacks on security forces in the Kashmir valley.

Imports from Pakistan declined by 92 per cent to $2.84 million in March this year after imposition of 200 per cent customs duties on all products following Pulwama terror attack.

Imports from Pakistan declined by 92 per cent to $2.84 million in March this year after imposition of 200 per cent customs duties on all products following Pulwama terror attack. On February 16 this year, taking strong economic action against Pakistan following the attack, India raised the customs duty to 200 per cent on all goods imported from the neighbouring country, including cotton, fresh fruits, cement, petroleum products and mineral ore. According to the data of the commerce ministry, the imports from the neighbouring country stood at $34.61 million in March 2018. Out of the $2.84 million imports in March, as much as $1.19 million was accounted for cotton import by India. According to experts, certain domestic manufacturing exporters could be availing nil import duty benefit under advance authorisation scheme to import products, especially raw materials from Pakistan, as it would not be viable for anyone to import goods at 200 per cent customs duties. The main commodities imported during the month from the neighbouring country include plastics, knitted fabrics, preparation of vegetables, articles of apparel and clothing, spices, chemicals, man-made filaments, and wool. During the January-March period of 2018-19 fiscal, the imports from Pakistan declined by 47 per cent to $53.65 million. India's exports to Pakistan too have dipped by about 32 per cent to $171.34 million in March. However, the exports grew by 7.4 per cent to $2 billion during 2018-19. The main products being exported by India include organic chemicals; cotton; nuclear reactors, boilers; plastic products; tanning or dyeing extracts; cereals; sugar; coffee, tea; articles of iron and steel; copper and footwear. India had also revoked the MFN (most favoured nation) status to Pakistan in the aftermath of the terror attack. The country has repealed a security exception clause of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) to withdraw this status. Both countries are a member of this body. India can also restrict the trade of certain goods and impose port-related restrictions on Pakistani goods. India had granted the MFN status to Pakistan way back in 1996, but the neighbouring country had not reciprocated. Under the MFN pact, a WTO member country is obliged to treat the other trading nation in a non-discriminatory manner, especially with regard to customs duty and other levies. Forty CRPF personnel were killed in a vehicle-borne IED attack on November 14, 2018, at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. This was one of the deadliest terror attacks on security forces in the Kashmir valley.

Imports from Pakistan plunge 92% in March after imposition of 200% customs duties

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