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Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/industry/india-can-benefit-from-us-china-trade-war-kkr-chief-183580">India is going to be a key ally</a> of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-warns-us-china-trade-war-will-jeopardize-2019-global-growth-221117">United States in countering China's hegemony</a> as it fights a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rare-earths-the-latest-weapon-in-the-us-china-trade-war-222578"> trade war</a>.

Speaking exclusively to WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon said, "I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering the economic war with China and India is going to be a key ally of that. If there is any country in the world that's exposed to this expansionist mentality of this radical cadre of the Chinese Communist Party which controls China, is India. And I think that Modi and Trump will be two natural allies."

Bannon said that China has been running in an economic war with the United States and the US is not going to back down. "The United States is now engaged with China on this economic war that China has been running against other democracies in the West and also Japan, India and other of the western allies. The Chinese, with western capital and western technology, is trying to become a hegemonic power in the Pacific and on the landmass Eurasia. We are trying to find out depths of what is going on in this Belt and Road situation. But I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering this economic war with China," he said.

Since last year, the United States and China have been locked in a trade conflict as Washington seeks to fix the trade balance, currently tilted in favour of Beijing. The two nations have raised or threatened to raise tariffs on each other's goods, moves that could re-draw trade flows and that have threatened to derail the global economy.

An analysis by S&amp;P Global Market Intelligence's trade data firm Panjiva showed recently that American companies are shifting purchases of affected products including furniture, refrigerators and car tyres to countries such as Vietnam and South Korea.

With the latest US tariffs on Chinese goods, India fears Beijing could also re-route exports of electronic items, toys, furniture and organic chemicals to India through other Southeast Asian nations.

Negotiations between the United States and China have soured dramatically since early May when Chinese officials sought major changes to the text of a proposed deal that the Trump administration says had been largely agreed.

A subsequent round of talks ended with no movement as US President Donald Trump increased tariffs to 25 per cent from 10 per cent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports and threatened to impose duties on all remaining Chinese goods sold in the United States.

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that India is going to be a key ally of the United States in countering China's hegemony as it fights a trade war.

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that India is going to be a key ally of the United States in countering China's hegemony as it fights a trade war. Speaking exclusively to WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon said, "I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering the economic war with China and India is going to be a key ally of that. If there is any country in the world that's exposed to this expansionist mentality of this radical cadre of the Chinese Communist Party which controls China, is India. And I think that Modi and Trump will be two natural allies." Bannon said that China has been running in an economic war with the United States and the US is not going to back down. "The United States is now engaged with China on this economic war that China has been running against other democracies in the West and also Japan, India and other of the western allies. The Chinese, with western capital and western technology, is trying to become a hegemonic power in the Pacific and on the landmass Eurasia. We are trying to find out depths of what is going on in this Belt and Road situation. But I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering this economic war with China," he said. Since last year, the United States and China have been locked in a trade conflict as Washington seeks to fix the trade balance, currently tilted in favour of Beijing. The two nations have raised or threatened to raise tariffs on each other's goods, moves that could re-draw trade flows and that have threatened to derail the global economy. An analysis by S&P Global Market Intelligence's trade data firm Panjiva showed recently that American companies are shifting purchases of affected products including furniture, refrigerators and car tyres to countries such as Vietnam and South Korea. With the latest US tariffs on Chinese goods, India fears Beijing could also re-route exports of electronic items, toys, furniture and organic chemicals to India through other Southeast Asian nations. Negotiations between the United States and China have soured dramatically since early May when Chinese officials sought major changes to the text of a proposed deal that the Trump administration says had been largely agreed. A subsequent round of talks ended with no movement as US President Donald Trump increased tariffs to 25 per cent from 10 per cent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports and threatened to impose duties on all remaining Chinese goods sold in the United States.

US-China trade war: India a key US ally to counter China's hegemony, Steve Bannon tells WION

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/after-nehru-and-indira-modi-becomes-third-prime-minister-to-return-to-power-with-huge-mandate-221300"> electoral victory this year</a> which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections.

Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist and media mogul, has said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-pm-modi-made-the-election-a-referendum-on-his-leadership-says-foreign-media-221210">western media is absolutely stunned by PM Modi's victory</a>. In an exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart News, said he has been incredibly impressed with Modi.

"When Modi first won five years ago, I was very proud of the fact that Breitbart, which is conservating and right-wing website in the United States, covered that election very closely. The day he won we put a headline that he was 'India's Reagan'. And I have been incredibly impressed with Modi since the first day I heard him and started following him in Indian politics. I would tell the people in India what I believe just happened is exactly like Ronald Reagan's second win in 1984 - his major landslide which is about him and personally the job he had done," Bannon said.

I think the western media is absolutely stunned by the scale of the Modi victory, he added.

Bannon said Modi's victory is good news for US-India relationship.

"It only bodes well for the future relationship between India and the United States. But the people of India should understand - you come with a lot of power, you have empowered Modi. Right now, on the world stage, I think he is one of the most powerful politicians, simply for the fact - not just how powerful India is but the mandate that Indian people gave him for the second term," he said.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Modi, won 303 of the 542 Lok Sabha (lower house of Indian Parliament) seats in the April-May election. Together with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies, the number of seats rose to a staggering 354. The win gave his party the first back-to-back majority for a single party since 1984.

His re-election reinforces a global trend of right-wing populists sweeping to victory, from the United States to Brazil and Italy.

Modi was showered with rose petals by some of the thousands of cheering supporters who waited for hours in a thunderstorm for his arrival at party headquarters after the results were announced on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an electoral victory this year which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an electoral victory this year which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections. Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist and media mogul, has said that the western media is absolutely stunned by PM Modi's victory. In an exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart News, said he has been incredibly impressed with Modi. "When Modi first won five years ago, I was very proud of the fact that Breitbart, which is conservating and right-wing website in the United States, covered that election very closely. The day he won we put a headline that he was 'India's Reagan'. And I have been incredibly impressed with Modi since the first day I heard him and started following him in Indian politics. I would tell the people in India what I believe just happened is exactly like Ronald Reagan's second win in 1984 - his major landslide which is about him and personally the job he had done," Bannon said. I think the western media is absolutely stunned by the scale of the Modi victory, he added. Bannon said Modi's victory is good news for US-India relationship. "It only bodes well for the future relationship between India and the United States. But the people of India should understand - you come with a lot of power, you have empowered Modi. Right now, on the world stage, I think he is one of the most powerful politicians, simply for the fact - not just how powerful India is but the mandate that Indian people gave him for the second term," he said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Modi, won 303 of the 542 Lok Sabha (lower house of Indian Parliament) seats in the April-May election. Together with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies, the number of seats rose to a staggering 354. The win gave his party the first back-to-back majority for a single party since 1984. His re-election reinforces a global trend of right-wing populists sweeping to victory, from the United States to Brazil and Italy. Modi was showered with rose petals by some of the thousands of cheering supporters who waited for hours in a thunderstorm for his arrival at party headquarters after the results were announced on May 23.

Impressed with Modi, his victory bodes well for India-US ties: Steve Bannon to WION

43-year-old Smriti Irani, newly elected MP from Amethi, defeated Rahul Gandhi, for the second time took oath as Union minister . After which, he became the youngest minister in the new cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Watch this video to know more.

Smriti Irani takes oath as cabinet minister

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday sent a team to Amethi to find out the reason for his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/the-fall-of-amethi-why-did-rahul-gandhi-lose-congress-stronghold-221658">shocking defeat to BJP leader Smriti Irani</a> from the parliamentary constituency which was considered a stronghold of the Nehru-Gandhi family.

The team comprises of AICC secretary Zubair Khan and Congress'&nbsp;Raebareli in-charge KL Sharma.

Both the leaders have been asked to give a report for the reason for the loss, said a senior party functionary from Amethi.

Sharma was looking after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/had-ensured-that-the-mp-from-amethi-would-be-chosen-from-our-party-smriti-irani-to-wion-221599">Amethi Lok Sabha seat</a> till 2009 when he was replaced by Chandrakant, a party worker from Madhya Pradesh.

He now manages Raebareli parliamentary seat, which is UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's constituency.

In the recently-concluded Lok Sabha elections, Rahul lost to Irani by over 55,000 votes from Amethi seat.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday sent a team to Amethi to find out the reason for his shocking defeat to BJP leader Smriti Irani from the parliamentary constituency which was considered a stronghold of the Nehru-Gandhi family.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday sent a team to Amethi to find out the reason for his shocking defeat to BJP leader Smriti Irani from the parliamentary constituency which was considered a stronghold of the Nehru-Gandhi family. The team comprises of AICC secretary Zubair Khan and Congress' Raebareli in-charge KL Sharma. Both the leaders have been asked to give a report for the reason for the loss, said a senior party functionary from Amethi. Sharma was looking after Amethi Lok Sabha seat till 2009 when he was replaced by Chandrakant, a party worker from Madhya Pradesh. He now manages Raebareli parliamentary seat, which is UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi's constituency. In the recently-concluded Lok Sabha elections, Rahul lost to Irani by over 55,000 votes from Amethi seat.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Rahul Gandhi sends team to Amethi to ascertain cause of defeat

An encounter broke out between terrorists and a joint team of security forces early on Friday morning in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir. At least two-three terrorists are believed to be trapped. Watch this video to know more.

Encounter breaks out in J&K's Shopian district

Narendra Modi took oath of office and secrecy as Prime Minister for the second consecutive term, administered by President Ram Nath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday. Watch this video to know more.

Watch: Highlights of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony

In the first decision taken after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-union-cabinet-to-meet-this-evening-223031">assuming charge of the new government</a>, Prime Minister Modi on Friday approved a major change in the ‘Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme’ under the National Defence Fund.&nbsp;

PM Modi approved the increased rates of scholarship from Rs. 2000 per month to Rs. 2500 per month for boys and from Rs. 2250 per month to Rs. 3000 per month for girls.

The PM also extended the ambit of the Scholarship Scheme to the wards of State Police officials who are/were martyred during terror/naxal attacks.&nbsp;

The quota of new scholarships for children of state police officials will be 500 in a year.

The first meeting of the new Union Cabinet was held today at 5:30 pm.

The meeting was scheduled a day after Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-takes-oath-as-prime-minister-for-second-time-222847">Narendra Modi and his Council of Ministers were sworn in</a>&nbsp;at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Watch: PM Modi approves changes to ‘PM’s Scholarship Scheme’ under National Defence Fund

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The Union Cabinet for the 17th Lok Sabha includes 24 cabinet ministers, 9 ministers of state with independent charge and 24 Ministers of State (MoS).

In the first decision taken after assuming charge of the new government, Prime Minister Modi on Friday approved a major change in the ‘Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme’ under the National Defence Fund.

In the first decision taken after assuming charge of the new government, Prime Minister Modi on Friday approved a major change in the ‘Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme’ under the National Defence Fund. PM Modi approved the increased rates of scholarship from Rs. 2000 per month to Rs. 2500 per month for boys and from Rs. 2250 per month to Rs. 3000 per month for girls. The PM also extended the ambit of the Scholarship Scheme to the wards of State Police officials who are/were martyred during terror/naxal attacks. The quota of new scholarships for children of state police officials will be 500 in a year. The first meeting of the new Union Cabinet was held today at 5:30 pm. The meeting was scheduled a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Council of Ministers were sworn in at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Watch: PM Modi approves changes to ‘PM’s Scholarship Scheme’ under National Defence Fund × The Union Cabinet for the 17th Lok Sabha includes 24 cabinet ministers, 9 ministers of state with independent charge and 24 Ministers of State (MoS).

PM Modi approves major change to scholarship scheme, extends quota to wards of martyrs

Soon after taking oath, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening held bilateral talks with President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who was here to attend the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-takes-oath-as-prime-minister-for-second-time-222847">swearing-in ceremony of the new government</a>.

The two leaders discussed ways to enhance economic and social cooperation between India and Kyrgyzstan, marking the first order of business in Foreign Affairs in Modi 2.0.

"Held extensive deliberations with the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Mr. Sooronbay Jeenbekov," the Prime Minister tweeted.

"Our talks covered the full spectrum of bilateral ties between our nations and ways to deepen economic and social cooperation in the times to come," the PM wrote.

Ajit Doval's presence in the photos attached to social media post of the Prime Minister indicates that the envoy will continue to hold his office of the National Security Advisor.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister is expected to hold bilateral meetings on Friday morning with leaders of five countries.

Narendra Modi, who got a massive mandate in the elections, on Thursday took oath as Prime Minister again for a second consecutive term inducting confidant and BJP President Amit Shah into his Cabinet along with the surprise inclusion of former Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar, while retaining most of his earlier Cabinet ministers and dropping seniors like Suresh Prabhu, Maneka Gandhi and Radha Mohan Singh.

In the recently held general election, BJP, which had won 282 seats in 2014, improved its tally by notching up 303 seats. Along with its NDA allies, the number swelled to 353 in the 543-member Lower House of the Parliament.

Soon after taking oath, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening held bilateral talks with President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who was here to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new government.

Soon after taking oath, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening held bilateral talks with President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Sooronbay Jeenbekov, who was here to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new government. The two leaders discussed ways to enhance economic and social cooperation between India and Kyrgyzstan, marking the first order of business in Foreign Affairs in Modi 2.0. "Held extensive deliberations with the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, Mr. Sooronbay Jeenbekov," the Prime Minister tweeted. "Our talks covered the full spectrum of bilateral ties between our nations and ways to deepen economic and social cooperation in the times to come," the PM wrote. Ajit Doval's presence in the photos attached to social media post of the Prime Minister indicates that the envoy will continue to hold his office of the National Security Advisor. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister is expected to hold bilateral meetings on Friday morning with leaders of five countries. Narendra Modi, who got a massive mandate in the elections, on Thursday took oath as Prime Minister again for a second consecutive term inducting confidant and BJP President Amit Shah into his Cabinet along with the surprise inclusion of former Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar, while retaining most of his earlier Cabinet ministers and dropping seniors like Suresh Prabhu, Maneka Gandhi and Radha Mohan Singh. In the recently held general election, BJP, which had won 282 seats in 2014, improved its tally by notching up 303 seats. Along with its NDA allies, the number swelled to 353 in the 543-member Lower House of the Parliament.

After taking oath, PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Kyrgyzstan President

The new Central government has approved a proposal to extend the benefit of Rs 6,000 per year under the PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) scheme to all farmers in the country.

The decision was taken in the first Cabinet meeting of the new NDA government, which came back to power, winning over 350 seats. In its manifesto for 2019 general elections, the BJP had promised to extend the scheme to all farmers.

A highly placed source said, "The Cabinet today approved the extension of the PM-KISAN scheme to all farmers".

The Rs 75,000 crore Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Siddhi (PMKSS) was announced in the interim budget, under which the government decided to provide Rs 6,000 per year (in three equal instalments) to an estimated 12 crore small and marginal farmers holding land up to 2 hectares.

Already, 3.11 crore small farmers have so far received the first tranche of Rs 2,000 each under the PM-Kisan scheme and 2.75 crore peasants have got the second instalment as well, as per the official data.

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme also aims to supplement financial needs of farmers in procuring various inputs to ensure proper crop health and appropriate yields, commensurate with the anticipated farm income at the end of each crop cycle.

(With inputs from PTI)

The new Central government has approved a proposal to extend the benefit of Rs 6,000 per year under the PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) scheme to all farmers in the country.

The new Central government has approved a proposal to extend the benefit of Rs 6,000 per year under the PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) scheme to all farmers in the country. The decision was taken in the first Cabinet meeting of the new NDA government, which came back to power, winning over 350 seats. In its manifesto for 2019 general elections, the BJP had promised to extend the scheme to all farmers. A highly placed source said, "The Cabinet today approved the extension of the PM-KISAN scheme to all farmers". The Rs 75,000 crore Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Siddhi (PMKSS) was announced in the interim budget, under which the government decided to provide Rs 6,000 per year (in three equal instalments) to an estimated 12 crore small and marginal farmers holding land up to 2 hectares. Already, 3.11 crore small farmers have so far received the first tranche of Rs 2,000 each under the PM-Kisan scheme and 2.75 crore peasants have got the second instalment as well, as per the official data. The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme also aims to supplement financial needs of farmers in procuring various inputs to ensure proper crop health and appropriate yields, commensurate with the anticipated farm income at the end of each crop cycle. (With inputs from PTI)

First Cabinet meet: All farmers to get Rs 6,000 a year under the expanded PM-Kisan scheme

In an extraordinary gesture, the UAE government lit up the iconic ADNOC building here on the occasion of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-takes-oath-as-prime-minister-for-second-time-222847"> swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and Council of Ministers to symbolise the close bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.&nbsp;

The flags of India and the UAE and portraits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan were displayed on the facade of the iconic building.

The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company or ADNOC is the state-owned oil company of the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

India's energy security is a top priority for the UAE with ADNOC being the only foreign oil and gas company, to date, to invest in India's strategic petroleum reserves programme. ADNOC is also a stakeholder in one of India's largest refinery and petrochemical complexes, which will be constructed at Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, Khaleej Times reported.

Strategic energy co-operation between the UAE and India was bolstered in March 2019, when an Indian consortium of two companies was awarded the exploration rights for an onshore block in Abu Dhabi's debut competitive block bid round. In addition, an Indian consortium of three companies was awarded a 10 per cent participating interest in Abu Dhabi's offshore Lower Zakum concession in February 2018, it said.

Watch: Know about new entrants in team Modi 2.0

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Navdeep Singh Suri, the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, told WAM, the official news agency of the United Arab Emirates, that since the visit of prime minister Modi to UAE in August 2015, the two nations have seen a real transformation in our bilateral ties.&nbsp;

"The close friendship that has blossomed over the last four years between our Prime Minister and the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed is well-known. The whole world can see it today in this unique celebration of the re-election of the Prime Minister for a fresh five-year term. The ADNOC tower behind us is beautifully lit up and adorned with the flags of India and UAE and visuals of the two leaders," he said.

"But beyond the symbolism of these images is also the clear direction that the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince have provided to diplomats like us to make the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership a truly vibrant example of what we can achieve when we work together," Suri said.

Over the last two years, Suri said bilateral ties have evolved from a simple buyer-seller relationship to a multi-faceted partnership that has led to our first strategic petroleum reserve, our first oil concessions in the Gulf and the agreement to work together in our West coast mega-refinery project.

"So, as the Prime Minister starts his second term in office, there is a tremendous sense of optimism for India-UAE ties. We now have the opportunity to build upon the strong platform that we have created over the last four years, and to make the coming period a truly Golden Era in our relationship," he said.&nbsp;

"An extraordinary gesture! the UAE government lit up the iconic ADNOC building in #AbuDhabi on the occasion of the swearing-in ceremony of PM @narendramodi and Council of Ministers," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.&nbsp;

In an extraordinary gesture, the UAE government lit up the iconic ADNOC building here on the occasion of the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Council of Ministers to symbolise the close bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.

In an extraordinary gesture, the UAE government lit up the iconic ADNOC building here on the occasion of the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Council of Ministers to symbolise the close bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The flags of India and the UAE and portraits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan were displayed on the facade of the iconic building. The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company or ADNOC is the state-owned oil company of the United Arab Emirates. India's energy security is a top priority for the UAE with ADNOC being the only foreign oil and gas company, to date, to invest in India's strategic petroleum reserves programme. ADNOC is also a stakeholder in one of India's largest refinery and petrochemical complexes, which will be constructed at Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, Khaleej Times reported. Strategic energy co-operation between the UAE and India was bolstered in March 2019, when an Indian consortium of two companies was awarded the exploration rights for an onshore block in Abu Dhabi's debut competitive block bid round. In addition, an Indian consortium of three companies was awarded a 10 per cent participating interest in Abu Dhabi's offshore Lower Zakum concession in February 2018, it said. Watch: Know about new entrants in team Modi 2.0 × Navdeep Singh Suri, the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, told WAM, the official news agency of the United Arab Emirates, that since the visit of prime minister Modi to UAE in August 2015, the two nations have seen a real transformation in our bilateral ties. "The close friendship that has blossomed over the last four years between our Prime Minister and the Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed is well-known. The whole world can see it today in this unique celebration of the re-election of the Prime Minister for a fresh five-year term. The ADNOC tower behind us is beautifully lit up and adorned with the flags of India and UAE and visuals of the two leaders," he said. "But beyond the symbolism of these images is also the clear direction that the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince have provided to diplomats like us to make the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership a truly vibrant example of what we can achieve when we work together," Suri said. Over the last two years, Suri said bilateral ties have evolved from a simple buyer-seller relationship to a multi-faceted partnership that has led to our first strategic petroleum reserve, our first oil concessions in the Gulf and the agreement to work together in our West coast mega-refinery project. "So, as the Prime Minister starts his second term in office, there is a tremendous sense of optimism for India-UAE ties. We now have the opportunity to build upon the strong platform that we have created over the last four years, and to make the coming period a truly Golden Era in our relationship," he said. "An extraordinary gesture! the UAE government lit up the iconic ADNOC building in #AbuDhabi on the occasion of the swearing-in ceremony of PM @narendramodi and Council of Ministers," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

UAE government marks PM Modi's swearing-in ceremony by lighting up iconic ADNOC building

Confirming unemployment rate projected in a pre-election leaked report, the government Friday said joblessness in the country was 6.1 per cent of the total labour force during 2017-18, the highest in 45 years.

The data released by the government on a day when Modi 2.0 Cabinet took charge showed 7.8 per cent of all employable urban youth being jobless, while the percentage for the rural was 5.3 per cent.

The joblessness among male on all India basis was 6.2 per cent, while it was 5.7 per cent in case of females.

Confirming unemployment rate projected in a pre-election leaked report, the government Friday said joblessness in the country was 6.1 per cent of the total labour force during 2017-18, the highest in 45 years.

Confirming unemployment rate projected in a pre-election leaked report, the government Friday said joblessness in the country was 6.1 per cent of the total labour force during 2017-18, the highest in 45 years. The data released by the government on a day when Modi 2.0 Cabinet took charge showed 7.8 per cent of all employable urban youth being jobless, while the percentage for the rural was 5.3 per cent. The joblessness among male on all India basis was 6.2 per cent, while it was 5.7 per cent in case of females.

Unemployment rate hits a 45-year high, up 6.1 per cent in 2017-18: Government data

An encounter between security forces and terrorists is underway in Tral area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district after terrorists opened fire at a CRPF position.&nbsp;

A joint team of Indian army's 42RR, Jammu and Kashmir police are conducting the operation in Naner area.&nbsp;

Sources told WION that Jaish terrorists, two to three in number, have been trapped and the exchange of gunfire was ongoing.&nbsp;

Clashes have also been reported from the area.&nbsp;

Earlier today, security forces have <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-shopian-223145">killed two terrorists and their accomplice</a> in an encounter in Shopian district of south Kashmir after inputs about their presence in the area.&nbsp;

During the search operation, the hiding terrorists opened fire at the joint forces of the Indian army, J&amp;K police and CRPF, triggering an encounter.

In the exchange of fire, two Hizbul-Mujahideen terrorists including a top commander Abid Manzoor alias Sajju Tiger were killed.

Police said both terrorists were involved in several attacks on security establishment and were wanted in different cases.

An encounter between security forces and terrorists is underway in Tral area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district after terrorists opened fire at a CRPF position.

An encounter between security forces and terrorists is underway in Tral area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district after terrorists opened fire at a CRPF position. A joint team of Indian army's 42RR, Jammu and Kashmir police are conducting the operation in Naner area. Sources told WION that Jaish terrorists, two to three in number, have been trapped and the exchange of gunfire was ongoing. Clashes have also been reported from the area. Earlier today, security forces have killed two terrorists and their accomplice in an encounter in Shopian district of south Kashmir after inputs about their presence in the area. During the search operation, the hiding terrorists opened fire at the joint forces of the Indian army, J&K police and CRPF, triggering an encounter. In the exchange of fire, two Hizbul-Mujahideen terrorists including a top commander Abid Manzoor alias Sajju Tiger were killed. Police said both terrorists were involved in several attacks on security establishment and were wanted in different cases.

J&K: Fresh encounter erupts in Pulwama, two killed in Shopian

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-unintentionally-killed-1300-civilians-in-air-strikes-on-islamic-state-us-led-coalition-223226">We unintentionally killed 1,300 civilians in air strikes on Islamic State: US-led coalition</a>

The US-led coalition said Friday it had unintentionally killed more than 1,300 civilians in air strikes during its&nbsp;fight against the Islamic State group&nbsp;in Iraq and Syria since 2014.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-gdp-grew-58-in-march-quarter-of-2018-19-annual-gdp-at-5-year-low-223231">India's GDP growth rate slows to 5.8% in Jan-March quarter, slowest in two years</a>

India's gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the January-March quarter of 2018-19 slipped to 5.8 per cent&nbsp;against 6.6% in the third quarter, due to poor performance in agriculture and manufacturing sectors, official data released by Central Statistics Office showed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/cabinet-20-most-ministers-retain-earlier-ministries-check-complete-list-223154">Cabinet 2.0: Most ministers retain earlier ministries; check complete list</a>

President Ram Nath Kovind as exhorted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday coordinated the&nbsp;assignment of portfolios&nbsp;among members from the Union Council of Ministers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-hopes-canada-understands-consequences-of-siding-with-us-223210">Huawei case: We hope that Canada understands consequences of siding with US, says China</a>

China&nbsp;hopes&nbsp;Canada&nbsp;understands&nbsp;the&nbsp;consequences&nbsp;of&nbsp;siding&nbsp;with the United States and doing its bidding,&nbsp;China's foreign ministry said on Friday after US&nbsp;Vice President Mike Pence called for the release of two&nbsp;Canadians detained in&nbsp;China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/america-first-is-a-fallacy-mexicos-president-responds-to-trump-tariff-223192">'America First is a fallacy,' Mexico's president responds to Trump tariff</a>

"America&nbsp;First&nbsp;is a fallacy,"&nbsp;Mexican&nbsp;President&nbsp;Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador&nbsp;told US&nbsp;President&nbsp;Donald&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;in a letter on Thursday, responding to a White House announced it was imposing a&nbsp;blanket 5%&nbsp;tariff&nbsp;on all goods from Mexicofrom June 10.

We unintentionally killed 1,300 civilians in air strikes on Islamic State: US-led coalition The US-led coalition said Friday it had unintentionally killed more than 1,300 civilians in air strikes during its fight against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria since 2014.

We unintentionally killed 1,300 civilians in air strikes on Islamic State: US-led coalition The US-led coalition said Friday it had unintentionally killed more than 1,300 civilians in air strikes during its fight against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria since 2014. India's GDP growth rate slows to 5.8% in Jan-March quarter, slowest in two years India's gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the January-March quarter of 2018-19 slipped to 5.8 per cent against 6.6% in the third quarter, due to poor performance in agriculture and manufacturing sectors, official data released by Central Statistics Office showed. Cabinet 2.0: Most ministers retain earlier ministries; check complete list President Ram Nath Kovind as exhorted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday coordinated the assignment of portfolios among members from the Union Council of Ministers. Huawei case: We hope that Canada understands consequences of siding with US, says China China hopes Canada understands the consequences of siding with the United States and doing its bidding, China's foreign ministry said on Friday after US Vice President Mike Pence called for the release of two Canadians detained in China. 'America First is a fallacy,' Mexico's president responds to Trump tariff "America First is a fallacy," Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador told US President Donald Trump in a letter on Thursday, responding to a White House announced it was imposing a blanket 5% tariff on all goods from Mexicofrom June 10.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Tamil Nadu's opposition party, the DMK, lashed out at the AIADMK government which approached the Supreme Court on Friday against the Madras High Court order quashing land acquisition proceedings for the Rs 10,000 crore Chennai-Salem eight-lane expressway.

"The AIADMK-BJP coalition which faced a rout in Tamil Nadu was betraying the people after being angered and humiliated by their debacle in the state," Stalin said.

He also accused Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami of going back on his poll promise of not implementing projects that would affect the farmers in Tamil Nadu.

Stalin also urged the government to withdraw their petition to the Supreme Court and look for an alternative route to implement the developmental project in a manner that would not affect the farmers.

In its April 8 judgement, the high court said that the project requires a mega re-alignment as the proposed route would have an adverse effect on the environment, including water bodies. The judgement was passed by the court after considering a batch of petitions filed by 35 land owners from the region and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss.

The proposed eight-lane 277-km-long expressway, approved in February 2018, was aimed at cutting down travel time between Chennai and Salem by a little over two hours and reducing the distance by around 68 kilometres. As per the project report, it was to pass via five districts of Tamil Nanu namely Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri and Salem.

However, the project faced protests from various groups on the grounds that it could end up utilising over 7,500 acres of land. Some of this includes agricultural land, villages, orchards, and reserve forests. Land acquisition and compensation for the same were major roadblocks. They were of the opinion that this project would not be necessary as there are three highways currently connecting the state's capital city with Salem.

While the AIADMK government was keen on having this project implemented, the DMK stood with the protesters and also said that they were against its implementation.

A Supreme Court bench of Justices M R Shah and A S Bopanna agreed to take up the matter on plea for an urgent hearing made by the counsel appearing for the state government. The petition will be heard on June 3.

Tamil Nadu's opposition party, the DMK, lashed out at the AIADMK government which approached the Supreme Court on Friday against the Madras High Court order quashing land acquisition proceedings for the Rs 10,000 crore Chennai-Salem eight-lane expressway.

Tamil Nadu's opposition party, the DMK, lashed out at the AIADMK government which approached the Supreme Court on Friday against the Madras High Court order quashing land acquisition proceedings for the Rs 10,000 crore Chennai-Salem eight-lane expressway. "The AIADMK-BJP coalition which faced a rout in Tamil Nadu was betraying the people after being angered and humiliated by their debacle in the state," Stalin said. He also accused Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami of going back on his poll promise of not implementing projects that would affect the farmers in Tamil Nadu. Stalin also urged the government to withdraw their petition to the Supreme Court and look for an alternative route to implement the developmental project in a manner that would not affect the farmers. In its April 8 judgement, the high court said that the project requires a mega re-alignment as the proposed route would have an adverse effect on the environment, including water bodies. The judgement was passed by the court after considering a batch of petitions filed by 35 land owners from the region and PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss. The proposed eight-lane 277-km-long expressway, approved in February 2018, was aimed at cutting down travel time between Chennai and Salem by a little over two hours and reducing the distance by around 68 kilometres. As per the project report, it was to pass via five districts of Tamil Nanu namely Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri and Salem. However, the project faced protests from various groups on the grounds that it could end up utilising over 7,500 acres of land. Some of this includes agricultural land, villages, orchards, and reserve forests. Land acquisition and compensation for the same were major roadblocks. They were of the opinion that this project would not be necessary as there are three highways currently connecting the state's capital city with Salem. While the AIADMK government was keen on having this project implemented, the DMK stood with the protesters and also said that they were against its implementation. A Supreme Court bench of Justices M R Shah and A S Bopanna agreed to take up the matter on plea for an urgent hearing made by the counsel appearing for the state government. The petition will be heard on June 3.

Betrayal, says DMK as Tamil Nadu challenges high court order against Chennai-Salem expressway in Supreme Court

Senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley, who opted out of the new government at the Centre, on Thursday congratulated Narendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-takes-oath-as-prime-minister-for-second-time-222847">Modi for taking oath as Prime Minister for a second consecutive term</a>.

In a post on Twitter, Jaitley, who was the Finance Minister in the first Modi regime, stated that India is moving steadfast&nbsp;on the path of progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

"Congratulations to Narendra Modi ji on taking oath for the second time as the Prime Minister of India. I wish the very best to all the members inducted in the Union Council of Ministers. India is moving steadfast on the path of progress under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi ji," he tweeted.

Jaitley had previously written to the Prime Minister saying that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-arun-jaitley-shortly-may-ask-to-reconsider-his-decision-222585">he would like to keep out of the new cabinet</a>, citing his health condition.

"I am writing to you to formally request you that I should be allowed a reasonable time for myself, my treatment and my health and, therefore, not be a part of any responsibility, for the present, in the new government," Jaitley wrote in a letter to the Prime Minister.

The 66-year-old BJP leader, who was absent from Friday's Union Cabinet meeting, said he would "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/great-honour-to-be-part-of-govt-will-keep-away-this-time-arun-jaitley-in-letter-to-pm-222463">undertake any work informally to support the government</a> or the party".

Jaitley, owing to his health, was not seen at the victory celebrations at the BJP headquarters after the party stormed to power with a massive mandate on 303 seats.

He has not been seen in public in the last few days, however, Jaitley did take a meeting of top Finance Ministry officials at his residence recently.

Watch: 'Allow me reasonable time for myself', says Arun Jatiley

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Senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley, who opted out of the new government at the Centre, on Thursday congratulated Narendra Modi for taking oath as Prime Minister for a second consecutive term.

Senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley, who opted out of the new government at the Centre, on Thursday congratulated Narendra Modi for taking oath as Prime Minister for a second consecutive term. In a post on Twitter, Jaitley, who was the Finance Minister in the first Modi regime, stated that India is moving steadfast on the path of progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. "Congratulations to Narendra Modi ji on taking oath for the second time as the Prime Minister of India. I wish the very best to all the members inducted in the Union Council of Ministers. India is moving steadfast on the path of progress under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi ji," he tweeted. Jaitley had previously written to the Prime Minister saying that he would like to keep out of the new cabinet, citing his health condition. "I am writing to you to formally request you that I should be allowed a reasonable time for myself, my treatment and my health and, therefore, not be a part of any responsibility, for the present, in the new government," Jaitley wrote in a letter to the Prime Minister. The 66-year-old BJP leader, who was absent from Friday's Union Cabinet meeting, said he would "undertake any work informally to support the government or the party". Jaitley, owing to his health, was not seen at the victory celebrations at the BJP headquarters after the party stormed to power with a massive mandate on 303 seats. He has not been seen in public in the last few days, however, Jaitley did take a meeting of top Finance Ministry officials at his residence recently. Watch: 'Allow me reasonable time for myself', says Arun Jatiley ×

India steadfast on path of progress under Modi: Arun Jaitley

The Trump administration has said it is not going back on its decision to terminate India's designation as a beneficiary developing nation under the key GSP trade programme, terming the suspension a "done deal".

The Generalised System of Preference (GSP) is the largest and oldest US trade preference programme and is designed to promote economic development by allowing duty-free entry for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

On March 4, President Donald Trump announced that the US intended to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/i-intend-to-end-indias-preferential-trade-treatment-under-gsp-program-trump-201179"> terminate India's designation as a beneficiary</a> developing country under the GSP programme.

The 60-day notice period ended on May 3. A formal notification is now expected anytime.

The Trump administration has prioritised working with the Government of India to ensure that US companies have a level playing field, a senior State Department official told reporters on Thursday, hours after Narendra Modi was sworn in as Prime Minister for a second time following his spectacular electoral victory in the general elections.

"The persistent market access issues, which we were engaged with our Indian counterparts over the last year, led us to announce in March that we would be suspending or withdrawing India's benefits under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delay-generalised-system-of-preferences-eligibility-decision-till-indian-elections-us-209980">generalised system of Preferences</a> Program," said the official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

"That suspension is a done deal. Now the task is how do we look ahead; how do we work under the second Modi Administration, to identify a path forward?" the official said, reflecting the Trump administration's decision that the GSP termination is final.

Under the GSP programme, nearly 2,000 products including auto components and textile materials can enter the US duty-free if the beneficiary developing countries meet the eligibility criteria established by Congress.

India was the largest beneficiary of the program in 2017 with $5.7 billion in imports to the US given duty-free status and Turkey the fifth largest with $1.7 billion in covered imports, according to a Congressional Research Service report issued in January.

"We believe there's enormous potential to grow our trade relationship and to help stimulate the jobs that Prime Minister Modi is committed to bringing to an overwhelmingly young Indian population.

"We believe that if India is prepared to address policies including data localisation and e-commerce measures, that served to stifle international investment from top tier companies, that we can continue to make significant progress moving forward," the official said.

Noting that President Trump has already made the announcement regarding his decision to terminate the designation of India as a beneficiary nation under GSP, the official said there was a 60-day notification to Congress.

The official said that does not rule out in the future, being able to achieve the reforms and the market access that the US needs under this programme to restore benefits.

"But I think we need to be looking forward at how do we relaunch an ambitious set of discussions between our trade teams in order to address these outstanding irritants," the official said, asserting that there is every reason to believe that the GSP suspension will move forward.

Responding to questions, the official reiterated that India needed to address some of its major concerns, in particular, those related to market access and data localisation.

"Data localisation is a phenomenon that's been taking place globally where we've seen increasing digital protectionism. While we recognise that there are legitimate security and privacy and law enforcement issues related to data protection, we're looking at nearly eight per cent of India's GDP, about $160 billion is associated with IT firms who depend upon the free flow of data," the official said.

So, the US does not want to see market access barriers to American firms in India when the Indian companies currently enjoy largely unfettered access to the US markets, the official said.

These issues, as well as that surrounding e-commerce, will certainly be a topic of conversation with the Indians, the official said.

The senior State Department official said there has been significant growth in the bilateral trade relationship as well as a narrowing of the trade deficit.

The bilateral trade is now at about $142 billion. US exports last year increased by 28 per cent. The trade deficits for goods and services stands at about $24 billion, which is about 11.9 per cent reduction.

"We have also seen strategic Indian investments in aviation, defence, oil and gas. In the last year, India has imported more than $3.3 billion worth of US crude and is contracted to import $2 billion worth of liquefied natural gas annually which obviously brings tangible benefits to both our economies and our people," the official said.

At the same time, the official asserted that the tension remained between the two countries.

"India remains one of the least open major economies in the world. The Trump administration is committed to ensuring free and fair and reciprocal trade.

And we've prioritised working with the government of India to ensure that US companies have a level playing field," the official said.&nbsp;

The Trump administration has said it is not going back on its decision to terminate India's designation as a beneficiary developing nation under the key GSP trade programme, terming the suspension a "done deal".

The Trump administration has said it is not going back on its decision to terminate India's designation as a beneficiary developing nation under the key GSP trade programme, terming the suspension a "done deal". The Generalised System of Preference (GSP) is the largest and oldest US trade preference programme and is designed to promote economic development by allowing duty-free entry for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. On March 4, President Donald Trump announced that the US intended to terminate India's designation as a beneficiary developing country under the GSP programme. The 60-day notice period ended on May 3. A formal notification is now expected anytime. The Trump administration has prioritised working with the Government of India to ensure that US companies have a level playing field, a senior State Department official told reporters on Thursday, hours after Narendra Modi was sworn in as Prime Minister for a second time following his spectacular electoral victory in the general elections. "The persistent market access issues, which we were engaged with our Indian counterparts over the last year, led us to announce in March that we would be suspending or withdrawing India's benefits under the generalised system of Preferences Program," said the official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. "That suspension is a done deal. Now the task is how do we look ahead; how do we work under the second Modi Administration, to identify a path forward?" the official said, reflecting the Trump administration's decision that the GSP termination is final. Under the GSP programme, nearly 2,000 products including auto components and textile materials can enter the US duty-free if the beneficiary developing countries meet the eligibility criteria established by Congress. India was the largest beneficiary of the program in 2017 with $5.7 billion in imports to the US given duty-free status and Turkey the fifth largest with $1.7 billion in covered imports, according to a Congressional Research Service report issued in January. "We believe there's enormous potential to grow our trade relationship and to help stimulate the jobs that Prime Minister Modi is committed to bringing to an overwhelmingly young Indian population. "We believe that if India is prepared to address policies including data localisation and e-commerce measures, that served to stifle international investment from top tier companies, that we can continue to make significant progress moving forward," the official said. Noting that President Trump has already made the announcement regarding his decision to terminate the designation of India as a beneficiary nation under GSP, the official said there was a 60-day notification to Congress. The official said that does not rule out in the future, being able to achieve the reforms and the market access that the US needs under this programme to restore benefits. "But I think we need to be looking forward at how do we relaunch an ambitious set of discussions between our trade teams in order to address these outstanding irritants," the official said, asserting that there is every reason to believe that the GSP suspension will move forward. Responding to questions, the official reiterated that India needed to address some of its major concerns, in particular, those related to market access and data localisation. "Data localisation is a phenomenon that's been taking place globally where we've seen increasing digital protectionism. While we recognise that there are legitimate security and privacy and law enforcement issues related to data protection, we're looking at nearly eight per cent of India's GDP, about $160 billion is associated with IT firms who depend upon the free flow of data," the official said. So, the US does not want to see market access barriers to American firms in India when the Indian companies currently enjoy largely unfettered access to the US markets, the official said. These issues, as well as that surrounding e-commerce, will certainly be a topic of conversation with the Indians, the official said. The senior State Department official said there has been significant growth in the bilateral trade relationship as well as a narrowing of the trade deficit. The bilateral trade is now at about $142 billion. US exports last year increased by 28 per cent. The trade deficits for goods and services stands at about $24 billion, which is about 11.9 per cent reduction. "We have also seen strategic Indian investments in aviation, defence, oil and gas. In the last year, India has imported more than $3.3 billion worth of US crude and is contracted to import $2 billion worth of liquefied natural gas annually which obviously brings tangible benefits to both our economies and our people," the official said. At the same time, the official asserted that the tension remained between the two countries. "India remains one of the least open major economies in the world. The Trump administration is committed to ensuring free and fair and reciprocal trade. And we've prioritised working with the government of India to ensure that US companies have a level playing field," the official said.

Suspension of preferential trade status for India under GSP is 'done deal': US

PM Modi approves changes to ‘PM’s Scholarship Scheme’ under National Defence Fund. Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government’s first Union cabinet meeting was held today, a day after the PM and his council of ministers took the oath of office and secrecy.

PM Modi approves changes to ‘PM’s Scholarship Scheme’ under National Defence Fund

India lost its spot as the fastest-growing major economy to China, clocking a disappointing 5.8% in the January-March quarter as a chill in domestic and global consumer demand hit manufacturers and service providers.

India's GDP growth slips to 5.8 percent in Q4

PM Modi's first cabinet meet underway at the south block, New Delhi. Watch this video to know more.

PM Modi's first cabinet meeting underway on National Security Issues

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena addresses a press conference. Watch this video to know more.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena addresses press conference

Full list of Narendra Modi Cabinet Ministers and ministry-wise portfolios: Nirmala Sitharaman is the new Finance Minister while Anurag Thakur is the MoS in Finance Ministry. Amit Shah has become the new Home Minister of India while Rajnath Singh has got the Defence Ministry.

Modi Cabinet Ministers portfolios announced

Known for his corporate network developed during his days as an investment banker, BJP's go-to man Piyush Goyal has been given the charge of Railways, Commerce and Industry ministries in Modi's new cabinet. Goyal first made his mark in BJP as a treasurer and held portfolios in coal, power, railways and finance.

Piyush Goyal takes charge, Retains as Railways and Commerce Minister

Nirmala Sitharaman is the new Finance Minister while Anurag Thakur is the MoS in Finance Ministry. Amit Shah has become the new Home Minister of India while Rajnath Singh has got the Defence Ministry. #ModiCabinet2.0 #ModiSarkaar2 #Narendra Modi #AmitShah #NirmalaSitharaman

Nirmala Sitharaman becomes India's new Finance Minister

Celebrated former top diplomat Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has been appointed the new Minister of External Affairs. Jaishankar, who was previously the foreign secretary during the Narendra Modi government's first term in office, was a surprise addition to the Narendra Modi Cabinet 2.0, which took oath on Thursday.

Breaking: Dr. S. Jaishankar takes charge as new External Affairs Minister

Nirmala Sitharaman is the first woman finance minister though Indira Gandhi held the finance portfolio when she was the prime minister in 1970-71. Watch this video to know more.

Breaking: Nirmala Sitharaman takes charge as new Finance & Corporate Minister

The decisive mandate to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-pm-modis-right-hand-man-is-indias-new-home-minister-223085">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> is a call of the people for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/cabinet-20-most-ministers-retain-earlier-ministries-check-complete-list-223154">new India </a>where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said.

He was addressing a banquet in honour of the heads and representatives of foreign governments attending the swearing-in-ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday.

Kovind said the verdict is an affirmation of Modi's visionary leadership to build a New India, not in a distant future, but here and now.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-20-rajnath-singh-is-defence-minister-amit-shah-home-nirmala-sitharaman-gets-finace-223084">Modi 2.0: Rajnath Singh is Defence Minister, Amit Shah Home; Nirmala Sitharaman gets Finance</a>

"This mandate is a call from our people for an India where there is progress for all and no one is left behind; an India that is on course to eliminating extreme poverty in the coming decade, and to realising the potential in every girl-child; an India that is at work to harness new-age technology and the limitless energy of its youth," he said.

It calls for an India that wishes to connect deeper with its rich cultural past even as it draws the contours of its promising future, and an India that is fast transforming itself as an engine of global growth and a centre of global power-relations, the president said.

Kovind said aspirations run high in our people.

"They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said.

Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfil these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said.

Watch- Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home

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Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone.

"As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said.

Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/modi-20-prominent-faces-of-the-58-member-ministerial-team-222972">In pics: Prominent faces of the 58-member ministerial team</a>

"This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said.

Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar.

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet.

The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday.

Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

Kovind said aspirations run high in our people.

"They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said.

Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfill these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said.

Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone.

"As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said.

Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said.

"This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said.

Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar.

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet.

The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday.

Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

The decisive mandate to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a call of the people for a new India where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said.

The decisive mandate to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a call of the people for a new India where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said. He was addressing a banquet in honour of the heads and representatives of foreign governments attending the swearing-in-ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday. Kovind said the verdict is an affirmation of Modi's visionary leadership to build a New India, not in a distant future, but here and now. Also read: Modi 2.0: Rajnath Singh is Defence Minister, Amit Shah Home; Nirmala Sitharaman gets Finance "This mandate is a call from our people for an India where there is progress for all and no one is left behind; an India that is on course to eliminating extreme poverty in the coming decade, and to realising the potential in every girl-child; an India that is at work to harness new-age technology and the limitless energy of its youth," he said. It calls for an India that wishes to connect deeper with its rich cultural past even as it draws the contours of its promising future, and an India that is fast transforming itself as an engine of global growth and a centre of global power-relations, the president said. Kovind said aspirations run high in our people. "They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said. Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfil these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said. Watch- Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home × Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone. "As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said. Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said. In pics: Prominent faces of the 58-member ministerial team "This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said. Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet. The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday. Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet. Kovind said aspirations run high in our people. "They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said. Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfill these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said. Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone. "As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said. Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said. "This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said. Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet. The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday. Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

Strong mandate is a call from our people for new India: President Ram Nath Kovind

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