<p>Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu urged China to "intensify efforts" in sending more Chinese tourists, as a diplomatic row continued over derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Indian PM Narendra Modi for promoting Lakshadweep as a destination for Indian tourists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China was our (Maldives') number one market pre-Covid, and it is my request that we intensify efforts for China to regain this position," Muizzu told the Maldives Business Forum in Fujian Province on Tuesday (Jan&nbsp; 9) during his official visit to China, as per an official readout.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His remarks came in the wake of Maldivian ministers' derogatory remarks against India which triggered sharp reactions from Indians to boycott the island country as a tourism destination.</p>

<p>Notably, there has been a slew of travel cancellations to the Maldives by Indian tourists following the diplomatic row where one of the sitting ministers of Muizzu's government passed unwelcome&nbsp;comments against Indian PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Muizzu, who is known for his pro-China stance, is on a five-day state visit to China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his Tuesday (Jan 9) address, the Maldivian president said, "China remains one of our closest allies and development partners."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He even went on to appreciate China's&nbsp;Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects launched in 2014 in the archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Muizzu said that these initiatives "delivered the most significant infrastructure projects witnessed in Maldivian history".</p>

<p>It is also reported in Maldivian media that China and Maldives signed a USD 50 million project to develop an integrated tourism zone in Maldives.</p>

<p>After the row following PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep, Muizzu's government suspended three deputy ministers who made abusive posts against India.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/antony-blinken-israel-must-stop-undercutting-palestinians-ability-to-govern-678393">Antony Blinken: Israel 'must stop' undercutting Palestinian's ability to govern</a></strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, in India, the number of inquiries for travel to Lakshadweep has increased.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) President, Jyoti Mayal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inquiries-for-lakshadweep-surging-none-for-maldives-taai-president-jyoti-mayal-to-wion-678303">told WION </a>that Maldives' Tour Operators and Travel Associations, in a letter to the organisation, have distanced themselves from the remarks by the sitting minister of Maldives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, India was the largest contributor to the Maldives tourist market in 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu urged China to "intensify efforts" in sending more Chinese tourists, as a diplomatic row continued over derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Indian PM Narendra Modi for promoting Lakshadweep as a destination for Indian tourists.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu urged China to "intensify efforts" in sending more Chinese tourists, as a diplomatic row continued over derogatory remarks by Maldivian politicians against Indian PM Narendra Modi for promoting Lakshadweep as a destination for Indian tourists. "China was our (Maldives') number one market pre-Covid, and it is my request that we intensify efforts for China to regain this position," Muizzu told the Maldives Business Forum in Fujian Province on Tuesday (Jan 9) during his official visit to China, as per an official readout. His remarks came in the wake of Maldivian ministers' derogatory remarks against India which triggered sharp reactions from Indians to boycott the island country as a tourism destination. Notably, there has been a slew of travel cancellations to the Maldives by Indian tourists following the diplomatic row where one of the sitting ministers of Muizzu's government passed unwelcome comments against Indian PM Modi. Also Read | Ecuador: Gunshots on live TV broadcast send shockwaves amid country's state of emergency | Video Muizzu, who is known for his pro-China stance, is on a five-day state visit to China. During his Tuesday (Jan 9) address, the Maldivian president said, "China remains one of our closest allies and development partners." He even went on to appreciate China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects launched in 2014 in the archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Blinken tells Netanyahu to avoid 'further civilian harm' in Gaza Muizzu said that these initiatives "delivered the most significant infrastructure projects witnessed in Maldivian history". It is also reported in Maldivian media that China and Maldives signed a USD 50 million project to develop an integrated tourism zone in Maldives. After the row following PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep, Muizzu's government suspended three deputy ministers who made abusive posts against India. Watch | Antony Blinken: Israel 'must stop' undercutting Palestinian's ability to govern × Meanwhile, in India, the number of inquiries for travel to Lakshadweep has increased. Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) President, Jyoti Mayal told WION that Maldives' Tour Operators and Travel Associations, in a letter to the organisation, have distanced themselves from the remarks by the sitting minister of Maldives. Notably, India was the largest contributor to the Maldives tourist market in 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid India-Maldives row, President Muizzu seeks China's support to boost tourism

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India's digital payments giant, Paytm, is riding the wave of a 50-fold surge in Lakshadweep travel searches, introducing an exclusive 10% discount on flight tickets to the mesmerizing archipelago. The UPI focussed app promises travellers a flat discount as the nation witnesses an unprecedented interest in this tropical haven.

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India pacer Mohammed Shami received the prestigious Arjuna Award from President Droupadi Murmu at the National Sports Awards on Tuesday (Jan 9) in New Delhi. Other Arjuna Award winners include Murali Sreeshankar (Athletics), Aditi Swami (Archery), Diksha Dagar( (Golf), Pawan Kumar (Kabaddi), Sunil Kumar (Wrestling), Ajay Reddy (Blind Cricket), etc. Watch to know more!

National Sports Award 2023: 26 Sportspersons receive Arjuna award from President Droupadi Murmu

Tensions and threats are high for the Red Sea shipping route the US and UK repelled a big Houthi attack this morning while the Indian Navy Chief has said that they're studying debris found on the attacked ships.

Houthis Red Sea attacks: Indian naval chief speaks on piracy attacks in the Red Sea

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The Congress today announced that it would skip the massive consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, saying it was a "political project" of the BJP and its ideological mentor Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh .The party said it is "clearly an RSS/BJP event" in a release.

Congress to skip Ram Mandir consecration, calls it a BJP-RSS event

The Pakistan Air Force has expressed interest in China's fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft J-31 “Gyrfalcon.” The stealth jet is being developed by the Chinese aerospace company, Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and would soon be inducted into the country’s air force. If such a deal is signed between Pakistan and China, what are the options in front of India? We explore in this video.

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In a big win for Eknath Shinde, Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar on Wednesday ruled that the Shiv Sena faction led by him was legitimate as he had the support of majority party MLAs. He also ruled that the Shinde faction MLAs could not be disqualified as then Shiv Sena chief whip, Sunil Prabhu, had no authority to call the legislature meeting.

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Monday launched Ugram, a state-of-the-art assault rifle of the 7.62 x 51 mm calibre, which has been indigenously designed, developed and manufactured in collaboration with a private industry partner. The assault rifle has been designed for the operational requirements of armed forces, paramilitary and state police entities.

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<p lang="en-US">The Indian government, amid diplomatic tensions with Maldives over the derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Lakshadweep visit, has been planning to develop a new airport at the archipelago's Minicoy Island, which is likely to accommodate both civilian and military aircraft, reported news agency ANI reported while citing government sources.<br />
<br />
"The plan is to have a joint airfield that would be capable of operating fighter jets, military transport planes and commercial aircraft," said the government sources, as reported by the ANI.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-how-pm-modis-lakshadweep-visit-sparked-diplomatic-tensions-between-india-and-maldives-678432">Explained | Why was Maldives triggered by Indian PM Modi snorkelling in Lakshadweep?</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The proposal for developing a new airfield in the Minicoy islands has been proposed earlier also, however, the decision to have a joint-use airfield for civilians and defence is the latest one included in the revived plan, it said.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Lakshadweep's tourism comes into focus</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The decision is aimed at promoting tourism in Lakshadweep and strengthening the country's surveillance capabilities over the Indian Ocean region and the Arabian Sea, with the airfield's development.<br />
<br />
The Indian Coast Guard had first given the proposal for the development of the airfield. The current proposal has suggested that the operations will be led by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from the Minicoy's airfield.<br />
<br />
The airport after getting operational will enhance the surveillance capabilities of the defence forces along with stimulating regional tourism, which has been outlined in the plans of the government.<br />
<br />
Currently, there is only one airstrip in Agatti, Lakshadweep which limits the kinds of aircraft which can land on the island.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel's desalination project to help India's Lakshadweep Islands</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">A diplomatic row was triggered between India and Maldives after three Maldivian leaders, Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid posted derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and mocked him over his recent trip to Lakshadweep.<br />
<br />
The matter was strongly raised by India with Male and the top opposition leaders of the island nation slammed&nbsp;the ruling establishment over the row.<br />
<br />
The prime minister had visited the Union Territory on January 2 and shared many pictures, which included an 'exhilarating experience' of him while doing snorkelling.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian government, amid diplomatic tensions with Maldives over the derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Lakshadweep visit, has been planning to develop a new airport at the archipelago's Minicoy Island, which is likely to accommodate both civilian and military aircraft, reported news agency ANI reported while citing government sources.

The Indian government, amid diplomatic tensions with Maldives over the derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Lakshadweep visit, has been planning to develop a new airport at the archipelago's Minicoy Island, which is likely to accommodate both civilian and military aircraft, reported news agency ANI reported while citing government sources. "The plan is to have a joint airfield that would be capable of operating fighter jets, military transport planes and commercial aircraft," said the government sources, as reported by the ANI. Also read: Explained | Why was Maldives triggered by Indian PM Modi snorkelling in Lakshadweep? The proposal for developing a new airfield in the Minicoy islands has been proposed earlier also, however, the decision to have a joint-use airfield for civilians and defence is the latest one included in the revived plan, it said. Lakshadweep's tourism comes into focus The decision is aimed at promoting tourism in Lakshadweep and strengthening the country's surveillance capabilities over the Indian Ocean region and the Arabian Sea, with the airfield's development. The Indian Coast Guard had first given the proposal for the development of the airfield. The current proposal has suggested that the operations will be led by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from the Minicoy's airfield. The airport after getting operational will enhance the surveillance capabilities of the defence forces along with stimulating regional tourism, which has been outlined in the plans of the government. Currently, there is only one airstrip in Agatti, Lakshadweep which limits the kinds of aircraft which can land on the island. Watch: Israel's desalination project to help India's Lakshadweep Islands A diplomatic row was triggered between India and Maldives after three Maldivian leaders, Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid posted derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and mocked him over his recent trip to Lakshadweep. The matter was strongly raised by India with Male and the top opposition leaders of the island nation slammed the ruling establishment over the row. The prime minister had visited the Union Territory on January 2 and shared many pictures, which included an 'exhilarating experience' of him while doing snorkelling. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s Lakshadweep to get new airport as part of overhaul to boost tourism

The Indian and British Governments have been working on a Free Trade Agreement since the year 2022... The FTA aims to boost exports from key sectors from both nations, by slashing customs duties on agricultural produce, industrial goods, financial services etc.... With more than 13 rounds of negotiations completed, there's hope that the FTA would be signed soon...WION Senior Correspondent Sidharth.M.P spoke to Lord Tariq Ahmad, the UK's Minister of State for South Asia....

Aim to complete India-UK Free Trade Agreement before polls in both nations: Lord Tariq Ahmad to WION

Some pregnant Hindu women in India's Lucknow are hankering to deliver their babies on January 22 as it coincides with the date Hindu Lord Rama's temple would be inaugurated in Ayodhya. Watch this video for all details.

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<p>While addressing the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the world looks upon India "as an important pillar of stability, a trusted friend, and a partner committed to people-centric development."</p>

<p>Highlighting India's pivotal role on the global stage, the Prime Minister stated, "India's cooperation, and labour are making the world stable."</p>

<p>The Indian PM also called on nations worldwide to unite for common objectives.&nbsp;"We can have joint goals and achieve them together," PM Modi said at the 10th edition of the event in Gandhinagar in the Indian state of Gujarat.</p>

<p>World leaders attending the event include United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.&nbsp;"The participation of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed in this summit is a matter of great joy for us. His presence as the chief guest at Vibrant Gujarat Summit is a symbol of the ever-strengthening relations between India and UAE..."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-tourism-body-says-indian-tourists-boost-their-economy-678538">Maldives tourism body says Indian tourists boost their economy</a></p>

<p>Modi said that UAE companies have inked agreements for new investments worth billions of dollars in India's port infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also underscored India's multifaceted global role, stating, "We are the voice of global good, global south, tech hub for solutions, a powerhouse of youth, and a democracy that delivers."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-women-delhi-police-contingent-to-march-down-kartavya-path-on-75th-republic-day-parade-678534">All-women Delhi Police contingent to march down Kartavya Path on 75th Republic Day parade</a></p>

<p>"This is the first Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in this Amrit Kaal. Therefore, this is even more significant. Representatives from more than 100 countries, who are participating in this Summit, are crucial partners in this development journey of India..." PM Modi noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reiterating India's goal of becoming a developed country by 2047, Modi said that India is well on its way to achieving its goal.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-why-2024-budget-will-be-different-setting-indias-budget-timelines-wion-newspoint-678535">India: Why 2024 budget will be different? Setting India's budget timelines | WION Newspoint</a></strong></p>

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<p>PM Modi while exuding confidence in India's growth said, "Today, India is the fifth largest economy in the world. 10 years ago, India was in the eleventh position. Today, all major agencies estimate that India will be in the top three economies of the world in the coming years. Let people across the world do their analysis, but it is my guarantee that it will happen..."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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While addressing the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the world looks upon India "as an important pillar of stability, a trusted friend, and a partner committed to people-centric development.

While addressing the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the world looks upon India "as an important pillar of stability, a trusted friend, and a partner committed to people-centric development." Highlighting India's pivotal role on the global stage, the Prime Minister stated, "India's cooperation, and labour are making the world stable." The Indian PM also called on nations worldwide to unite for common objectives. "We can have joint goals and achieve them together," PM Modi said at the 10th edition of the event in Gandhinagar in the Indian state of Gujarat. World leaders attending the event include United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "The participation of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed in this summit is a matter of great joy for us. His presence as the chief guest at Vibrant Gujarat Summit is a symbol of the ever-strengthening relations between India and UAE..." Also Read | Maldives tourism body says Indian tourists boost their economy Modi said that UAE companies have inked agreements for new investments worth billions of dollars in India's port infrastructure. PM Modi also underscored India's multifaceted global role, stating, "We are the voice of global good, global south, tech hub for solutions, a powerhouse of youth, and a democracy that delivers." Also Read | All-women Delhi Police contingent to march down Kartavya Path on 75th Republic Day parade "This is the first Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in this Amrit Kaal. Therefore, this is even more significant. Representatives from more than 100 countries, who are participating in this Summit, are crucial partners in this development journey of India..." PM Modi noted. Reiterating India's goal of becoming a developed country by 2047, Modi said that India is well on its way to achieving its goal. Watch | India: Why 2024 budget will be different? Setting India's budget timelines | WION Newspoint × PM Modi while exuding confidence in India's growth said, "Today, India is the fifth largest economy in the world. 10 years ago, India was in the eleventh position. Today, all major agencies estimate that India will be in the top three economies of the world in the coming years. Let people across the world do their analysis, but it is my guarantee that it will happen..." (With inputs from agencies)

India a pillar of stability, trusted friend: PM Modi at Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024

Preparations are underway in full swing for the Ram Temple inauguration on January 22, which will draw dignitaries and people from all walks of life. Watch this report for more details!

Ram Mandir inuguration: Preparation in full swing | Halwa do be distributed among 150,000 devotees

Kashmir Valley is witnessing an unprecedented change in the weather. In January, tourist resorts such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg would typically have accumulated ample snow by now. But this year, the winter wonderland of Kashmir, Gulmarg is dry with no snow anywhere to be seen. Experts attribute the disappointment of tourists who visit to witness the snow to global warming.

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