<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-will-get-statehood-wont-remain-union-territory-forever-says-amit-shah-254311">Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said</a> that minimum use of force and maximum effectiveness should be the motto of police everywhere in accordance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for New India and there is a need of human touch and sensitivity in the police to gain people's trust. 
 
Shah said in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a 'New India', "minimum use of force and maximum effectiveness should be the motto of police everywhere and there is a need for human touch and sensitivity in the Police to gain peoples' trust." 
 
Addressing the probationers of the 2018 batch of Indian Police Service (IPS) here, Shah called for a conceptual change in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and said that the amended code must be in line with India being a welfare state. 
 
He noted that the purpose of the IPC and the CrPC has shifted from preservation of the British empire to the welfare of the people and this has to be reflected in the provisions and application of the code. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-to-address-two-day-conference-of-ats-chiefs-this-month-254287">The Home Minister</a> said there is a need for bringing a positive change in the public perception about the police. 
 
According to a Home Ministry release, Shah advised the probationers to never run away from responsibility and never compromise with discipline. 
 
He said that there are three constituents of the constitutional framework of the country -- the people, the government and the bureaucracy. 
 
The government and the bureaucracy need to perform their roles responsibly in order to effectively implement the Constitution in its letter and spirit, he noted. 
 
The minister encouraged the probationers to be a proud part of a service that is continuously working to ensure the safety and security of the people. 
 
Speaking of the changing role of police, he said that the "colonial role of police as an agent of fear" was not the reality now. 
 
He said the fear associated with police should be removed by bringing a positive behavioural change in the personnel and added that the IPS as an institution must make this change percolate to the grassroots. 
 
He said that maintaining peace and stability was very important to achieve the Prime Minister's vision of a $5 trillion economy. 
 
The minister said that for developing a positive image of the police, it is necessary that young probationers focus on discharging their official duties honestly and make a positive contribution to the betterment of the society. 
 
He said contrary to the image of police portrayed in popular culture, it is the police officers from top to bottom who are responsible for maintaining law and order. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-pilot-accused-of-impersonating-senior-to-fly-amit-shahs-plane-tenders-resignation-254054">The minister said</a> reforming the system does not mean shunning traditional ways of policing totally and is a continuous process of adapting old methods to address new challenges. 
 
Noting that the challenges faced by societies change and so should the responses to them from laws to technology, he said that the government is committed to police reforms and encouraged the probationers to individually carry out small yet important improvements in local police functioning, wherever they were posted

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that minimum use of force and maximum effectiveness should be the motto of police everywhere in accordance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for New India and there is a need of human touch and sensitivity in the police to gain people's trust.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that minimum use of force and maximum effectiveness should be the motto of police everywhere in accordance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for New India and there is a need of human touch and sensitivity in the police to gain people's trust. Shah said in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a 'New India', "minimum use of force and maximum effectiveness should be the motto of police everywhere and there is a need for human touch and sensitivity in the Police to gain peoples' trust." Addressing the probationers of the 2018 batch of Indian Police Service (IPS) here, Shah called for a conceptual change in the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and said that the amended code must be in line with India being a welfare state. He noted that the purpose of the IPC and the CrPC has shifted from preservation of the British empire to the welfare of the people and this has to be reflected in the provisions and application of the code. The Home Minister said there is a need for bringing a positive change in the public perception about the police. According to a Home Ministry release, Shah advised the probationers to never run away from responsibility and never compromise with discipline. He said that there are three constituents of the constitutional framework of the country -- the people, the government and the bureaucracy. The government and the bureaucracy need to perform their roles responsibly in order to effectively implement the Constitution in its letter and spirit, he noted. The minister encouraged the probationers to be a proud part of a service that is continuously working to ensure the safety and security of the people. Speaking of the changing role of police, he said that the "colonial role of police as an agent of fear" was not the reality now. He said the fear associated with police should be removed by bringing a positive behavioural change in the personnel and added that the IPS as an institution must make this change percolate to the grassroots. He said that maintaining peace and stability was very important to achieve the Prime Minister's vision of a $5 trillion economy. The minister said that for developing a positive image of the police, it is necessary that young probationers focus on discharging their official duties honestly and make a positive contribution to the betterment of the society. He said contrary to the image of police portrayed in popular culture, it is the police officers from top to bottom who are responsible for maintaining law and order. The minister said reforming the system does not mean shunning traditional ways of policing totally and is a continuous process of adapting old methods to address new challenges. Noting that the challenges faced by societies change and so should the responses to them from laws to technology, he said that the government is committed to police reforms and encouraged the probationers to individually carry out small yet important improvements in local police functioning, wherever they were posted

Minimum use of force should be motto of police everywhere, says Amit Shah

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-to-address-two-day-conference-of-ats-chiefs-this-month-254287">Union Minister for Home Affairs Amit Shah</a> on Monday reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir would not remain a Union territory for forever and it will get back its statehood status once there is a favourable situation for that. 
 
"Jammu and Kashmir would not remain a Union Territory forever and that the statehood would be returned once the situation is normalised," Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in an official statement quoting Shah. 
 
The Home Minister also said that the notion that only Article 370 protected the Kashmiri culture and identity was a wrong one. 
 
He asserted that all regional identities are inherently protected by the Indian constitution and referred to the misuse of Article 370 as the root cause of cross-border terrorism. 
 
Shah made these remarks while speaking at a function where he met and interacted with the probationers of the 2018 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS). 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-chairs-high-level-meeting-to-review-current-status-of-border-security-253792">The Home Minister</a> touched&nbsp;issues including National Register of Citizens (NRC), Abrogation of Article 370, etc. 
 
Speaking on the need for a National Register of Citizens, he asserted that NRC was essential not just for national security but for good governance as well. 
 
He remarked that the NRC must not be seen as a political exercise, as it is very important to have a national citizen register in order to ensure that benefits of development reach all the&nbsp;citizens. 
 
He also asked the young probationers to focus on honest performance and added that image is made by not one incident but continuous performance and delivery. 
 
"Maintenance of law and order is very important to achieve Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a $5 trillion economy," Shah said.

Union Minister for Home Affairs Amit Shah on Monday reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir would not remain a Union territory for forever and it will get back its statehood status once there is a favourable situation for that.

Union Minister for Home Affairs Amit Shah on Monday reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir would not remain a Union territory for forever and it will get back its statehood status once there is a favourable situation for that. "Jammu and Kashmir would not remain a Union Territory forever and that the statehood would be returned once the situation is normalised," Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in an official statement quoting Shah. The Home Minister also said that the notion that only Article 370 protected the Kashmiri culture and identity was a wrong one. He asserted that all regional identities are inherently protected by the Indian constitution and referred to the misuse of Article 370 as the root cause of cross-border terrorism. Shah made these remarks while speaking at a function where he met and interacted with the probationers of the 2018 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS). The Home Minister touched issues including National Register of Citizens (NRC), Abrogation of Article 370, etc. Speaking on the need for a National Register of Citizens, he asserted that NRC was essential not just for national security but for good governance as well. He remarked that the NRC must not be seen as a political exercise, as it is very important to have a national citizen register in order to ensure that benefits of development reach all the citizens. He also asked the young probationers to focus on honest performance and added that image is made by not one incident but continuous performance and delivery. "Maintenance of law and order is very important to achieve Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a $5 trillion economy," Shah said.

Jammu & Kashmir will get statehood, won't remain union territory forever, says Amit Shah

Union Minister Amit Shah will address a two-day conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad from different states in the national capital on October 14 and 15. 
 
Sources told ANI that the conference of ATS chiefs is being organised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The purpose of the conference is to alert and formulate a proper counter-terror action plan. 
 
The conference will be addressed by Shah and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. 
 
During the conference, the ATS chiefs will also give a presentation on preparations to counter possible terrorist attacks. 
 
After the abrogation of Article 370 and ahead of Diwali festivities, security agencies are on high alert. 
 
A document exclusively accessed by ANI said that with the help of Pakistan Army and ISI, the three top terrorist organisations -&nbsp;Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) - have distributed responsibilities to carry out terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, and other parts of India, and for political and police killings. 
 
"There is a credible input that terrorists have recently held a joint meeting at an unspecified location in Pulwama in which different operational responsibilities were assigned to different terrorist groups as a future strategy," the document stated. 
 
Following constant terror threats, the security forces have already been asked to coordinate with agencies and follow all standard operating procedures. 
A special police force, the Anti-Terrorism Squad, deals with specialised terror threats like the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.&nbsp;

Union Minister Amit Shah will address a two-day conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad from different states in the national capital on October 14 and 15. Sources told ANI that the conference of ATS chiefs is being organised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Union Minister Amit Shah will address a two-day conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad from different states in the national capital on October 14 and 15. Sources told ANI that the conference of ATS chiefs is being organised by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The purpose of the conference is to alert and formulate a proper counter-terror action plan. The conference will be addressed by Shah and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. During the conference, the ATS chiefs will also give a presentation on preparations to counter possible terrorist attacks. After the abrogation of Article 370 and ahead of Diwali festivities, security agencies are on high alert. A document exclusively accessed by ANI said that with the help of Pakistan Army and ISI, the three top terrorist organisations - Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) - have distributed responsibilities to carry out terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, and other parts of India, and for political and police killings. "There is a credible input that terrorists have recently held a joint meeting at an unspecified location in Pulwama in which different operational responsibilities were assigned to different terrorist groups as a future strategy," the document stated. Following constant terror threats, the security forces have already been asked to coordinate with agencies and follow all standard operating procedures. A special police force, the Anti-Terrorism Squad, deals with specialised terror threats like the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.

Amit Shah to address two-day conference of ATS chiefs this month

Border Security Force (BSF`s) pilot Wing Commander (retd) JS Sangwan, who is facing criminal charges for impersonating his senior to fly the incumbent Union Home Minister Amit Shah`s plane, has tendered resignation from the services.

Sources in the BSF said that Sangwan had filed his resignation in the first week of September which cannot be accepted as he has a pending, ongoing departmental enquiry against him.

"Till the time his enquiry is pending, the decision on his resignation cannot be taken," a senior BSF official said.

"The accused pilot had asked few questions which have been addressed appropriately by BSF," another BSF official claimed.

Sangwan, who was posted in the BSF air wing is a Kargil war veteran.

Sources in BSF claimed that accused pilot has submitted a petition seeking voluntary resignation from the services with effect from October 31.

He had sent the petition twice, first on September 2 and then on September 16.

According to reports, throughout June and July, engineering and construction firm Larsen and Toubro (L&amp;T) received a series of emails from the BSF Air Wing, which flies Shah, requesting Sangwan be given a chance to fly L&amp;T flights.

According to the complaint against Sangwan, the emails claimed that the pilot had nearly 4000 hours of flying experience.

The fraud unfolded when L&amp;T contacted BSF a couple of days before he was scheduled to fly aboard with Shah.

A complaint in the matter was handed over in this regard to the Domestic Airport police station which is under investigation while an internal enquiry was also launched by the BSF.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Border Security Force (BSF`s) pilot Wing Commander (retd) JS Sangwan, who is facing criminal charges for impersonating his senior to fly the incumbent Union Home Minister Amit Shah`s plane, has tendered resignation from the services.

Border Security Force (BSF`s) pilot Wing Commander (retd) JS Sangwan, who is facing criminal charges for impersonating his senior to fly the incumbent Union Home Minister Amit Shah`s plane, has tendered resignation from the services. Sources in the BSF said that Sangwan had filed his resignation in the first week of September which cannot be accepted as he has a pending, ongoing departmental enquiry against him. "Till the time his enquiry is pending, the decision on his resignation cannot be taken," a senior BSF official said. "The accused pilot had asked few questions which have been addressed appropriately by BSF," another BSF official claimed. Sangwan, who was posted in the BSF air wing is a Kargil war veteran. Sources in BSF claimed that accused pilot has submitted a petition seeking voluntary resignation from the services with effect from October 31. He had sent the petition twice, first on September 2 and then on September 16. According to reports, throughout June and July, engineering and construction firm Larsen and Toubro (L&T) received a series of emails from the BSF Air Wing, which flies Shah, requesting Sangwan be given a chance to fly L&T flights. According to the complaint against Sangwan, the emails claimed that the pilot had nearly 4000 hours of flying experience. The fraud unfolded when L&T contacted BSF a couple of days before he was scheduled to fly aboard with Shah. A complaint in the matter was handed over in this regard to the Domestic Airport police station which is under investigation while an internal enquiry was also launched by the BSF.

BSF pilot accused of impersonating senior to fly Amit Shah's plane tenders resignation

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/railways-vital-to-achieve-pms-vision-of-5-trillion-economy-shah-253524">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> on Friday chaired a high-level meeting to review the current status of border security and measures to be taken to strengthen it further.&nbsp;

The meeting was attended by Home Secretary, Secretary (Border Management), Special Secretary (Internal Security) and Directors General of Border Security Force, Sashastra Seema Bal, Indo-Tibetan Border Police and Assam Rifles, along with other senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

According to the ministry, the home minister stressed on government's policy of 'Zero Tolerance' towards terrorism, insurgency, corruption as well as smuggling of weapons, narcotics and cattle.&nbsp;

"He directed the senior officers to take stringent measures against these practices. The Home Minister also directed the DGs to identify all issues affecting border security and submit a detailed action plan to the ministry in this regard," a government press statement said.

Shah also asked all DGs to ensure the best facilities for housing, health and training are available to the security personnel who are posted on the border.

"We must keep in mind that 130 crore countrymen are safe because of this security personnel on the border," Amit Shah said.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday chaired a high-level meeting to review the current status of border security and measures to be taken to strengthen it further.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday chaired a high-level meeting to review the current status of border security and measures to be taken to strengthen it further. The meeting was attended by Home Secretary, Secretary (Border Management), Special Secretary (Internal Security) and Directors General of Border Security Force, Sashastra Seema Bal, Indo-Tibetan Border Police and Assam Rifles, along with other senior officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs. According to the ministry, the home minister stressed on government's policy of 'Zero Tolerance' towards terrorism, insurgency, corruption as well as smuggling of weapons, narcotics and cattle. "He directed the senior officers to take stringent measures against these practices. The Home Minister also directed the DGs to identify all issues affecting border security and submit a detailed action plan to the ministry in this regard," a government press statement said. Shah also asked all DGs to ensure the best facilities for housing, health and training are available to the security personnel who are posted on the border. "We must keep in mind that 130 crore countrymen are safe because of this security personnel on the border," Amit Shah said.

Home Minister Amit Shah chairs high-level meeting to review current status of border security

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the inaugural run of Vande Bharat Express (Train 18) between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shun-single-use-plastic-carry-own-bags-to-market-says-amit-shah-253235/amp">Shah</a> was accompanied by Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Harsh Vardhan, Jitendra Singh, and officials from the Indian Railways at the New Delhi junction for the flagging off event.

Thanking the Indian Railways for the on-time completion of the project, Shah said, "I want to thank the Indian Railways from the core of my heart for giving this gift to Jammu and Kashmir in the auspicious occasion of Navratri. I am proud that this made in India train is being flagged-off from here today. The railways are working towards achieving its targets keeping in mind the principles of speed, scale, and service."

He added that the project will serve as a medium for the development of the region by boosting religious tourism.

"For the development of Jammu and Kashmir religious tourism will play a big part, there cannot be any village in India where people do not want to go to Mata Vaishno Devi temple," he said.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Railways said that the train will start its commercial run between New Delhi and Katra on October 5.

The train will ply throughout the week except for Tuesday.

It will comprise of two Executive AC Chair Car and 12 Chair Car coaches, with stops at Ambala Cantt, Ludhiana, and Jammu Tawi railway stations.

The train journey between New Delhi to Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will cost Rs 1,630 in Chair Car coaches and Rs 3,015 in Executive AC Chair Car coaches. 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the inaugural run of Vande Bharat Express (Train 18) between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. Shah was accompanied by Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Harsh Vardhan, Jitendra Singh, and officials from the Indian Railways at the New Delhi junction for the flagging off event.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the inaugural run of Vande Bharat Express (Train 18) between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. Shah was accompanied by Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Harsh Vardhan, Jitendra Singh, and officials from the Indian Railways at the New Delhi junction for the flagging off event. Thanking the Indian Railways for the on-time completion of the project, Shah said, "I want to thank the Indian Railways from the core of my heart for giving this gift to Jammu and Kashmir in the auspicious occasion of Navratri. I am proud that this made in India train is being flagged-off from here today. The railways are working towards achieving its targets keeping in mind the principles of speed, scale, and service." He added that the project will serve as a medium for the development of the region by boosting religious tourism. "For the development of Jammu and Kashmir religious tourism will play a big part, there cannot be any village in India where people do not want to go to Mata Vaishno Devi temple," he said. Earlier on Tuesday, the Railways said that the train will start its commercial run between New Delhi and Katra on October 5. The train will ply throughout the week except for Tuesday. It will comprise of two Executive AC Chair Car and 12 Chair Car coaches, with stops at Ambala Cantt, Ludhiana, and Jammu Tawi railway stations. The train journey between New Delhi to Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will cost Rs 1,630 in Chair Car coaches and Rs 3,015 in Executive AC Chair Car coaches.

Amit Shah flags off Vande-Bharat Express between New Delhi-Katra

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Thursday that Prime Minister visualises Railways as a lifeline to achieve the goal of making India a $5 trillion economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-flagged-off-vande-bharat-express-between-new-delhi-katra-253394">Flagging off Vande Bharat Express train</a> from here, Shah said modernisation of railways was taking place at a fast pace under the leadership of Prime Minister and various initiatives such as gauge conversion and laying of tracks was taking place at twice the speed compared to the UPA government.

He congratulated Railway Minister Piyush Goyal over the speed at which the Railways have adopted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/finance-minister-nirmala-sitharamans-announcement-to-boost-make-in-india-250764">'Make in India'</a>&nbsp;initiative of the Prime Minister.

Noting that Mahatma Gandhi had used the Railways to give the country freedom, he said the Prime Minister has taken inspiration from Bapu and wants to make Railways a "lifeline" in the target of making India a five trillion dollar economy.

The minister said that 'Vande Bharat'&nbsp;was a hallmark of the success of 'Make in India'&nbsp;and the potential that it holds in giving a boost to the economy.

"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-gets-its-fastest-train-vande-bharat-express-197645">Railways</a> should keep increasing its passenger and freight traffic. Railways must keep a fast-paced development and achieve Prime Minister's vision of US $ 5 trillion economy&nbsp;in the same way as Railways played a major role in the success of Bapu's freedom struggle," he said.

Shah said it was an incident in a railway coach in South Africa that shaped Gandhi's transformation into a leader of the freedom movement.

He said it was during a train journey that he decided against wearing full clothes seeing the poverty of countrymen.

Shah said Modi has given a big gift to Jammu and Kashmir in the form of Vande Bharat Express and it was also a gift during Navratri.

"For the development of Jammu and Kashmir, religious tourism will play a big part, there cannot be any village in India where people do not want to go to Mata Vaishno Devi temple and this will help in the development of the region," Shah said.

He said the first Vande Bharat Express train between Delhi and Varanasi started on February 17.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi put forth his dream of a high-speed train network across India to the Railways and it is working hard to achieve that," he said.

The first commercial run of Vande Bharat will start from October 5 and the bookings have started on the IRCTC website.

The minimum fare for travelling between New Delhi (NDLS) to Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) will be Rs 1,630 and the maximum will be Rs 3,015.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Thursday that Prime Minister visualises Railways as a lifeline to achieve the goal of making India a $5 trillion economy. Flagging off Vande Bharat Express train from here, Shah said modernisation of railways was taking place at a fast pace under the leadership of Prime Minister and various initiatives such as gauge conversion and laying of tracks was taking place at twice the speed compared to the UPA government.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Thursday that Prime Minister visualises Railways as a lifeline to achieve the goal of making India a $5 trillion economy. Flagging off Vande Bharat Express train from here, Shah said modernisation of railways was taking place at a fast pace under the leadership of Prime Minister and various initiatives such as gauge conversion and laying of tracks was taking place at twice the speed compared to the UPA government. He congratulated Railway Minister Piyush Goyal over the speed at which the Railways have adopted 'Make in India' initiative of the Prime Minister. Noting that Mahatma Gandhi had used the Railways to give the country freedom, he said the Prime Minister has taken inspiration from Bapu and wants to make Railways a "lifeline" in the target of making India a five trillion dollar economy. The minister said that 'Vande Bharat' was a hallmark of the success of 'Make in India' and the potential that it holds in giving a boost to the economy. "The Railways should keep increasing its passenger and freight traffic. Railways must keep a fast-paced development and achieve Prime Minister's vision of US $ 5 trillion economy in the same way as Railways played a major role in the success of Bapu's freedom struggle," he said. Shah said it was an incident in a railway coach in South Africa that shaped Gandhi's transformation into a leader of the freedom movement. He said it was during a train journey that he decided against wearing full clothes seeing the poverty of countrymen. Shah said Modi has given a big gift to Jammu and Kashmir in the form of Vande Bharat Express and it was also a gift during Navratri. "For the development of Jammu and Kashmir, religious tourism will play a big part, there cannot be any village in India where people do not want to go to Mata Vaishno Devi temple and this will help in the development of the region," Shah said. He said the first Vande Bharat Express train between Delhi and Varanasi started on February 17. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi put forth his dream of a high-speed train network across India to the Railways and it is working hard to achieve that," he said. The first commercial run of Vande Bharat will start from October 5 and the bookings have started on the IRCTC website. The minimum fare for travelling between New Delhi (NDLS) to Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) will be Rs 1,630 and the maximum will be Rs 3,015.

Railways vital to achieve PM Modi's vision of $5 trillion economy: Amit Shah

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

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

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

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/removal-of-article-370-step-towards-permanent-peace-in-jammu-and-kashmir-says-amit-shah-252796">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> said on Tuesday that the BJP-led Central government will not allow any "infiltrator" to stay in the county while refugees belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi, and Christian religions will be given citizenship.

Addressing a public awakening programme in Kolkata&nbsp;on the National Register of Citizens (NRC), Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government will bring the Citizenship Amendment Bill before implementing the NRC.

He accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of spreading misinformation about the NRC that Hindu refugees will have to leave West Bengal.

The minister said that he had come to the state to assure the residents that refugees belonging to Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, Parsi, and Christian religions will be not be asked to leave the country.

He said the refugees belonging to these religious groups had come to India due to hardships they faced and most of them are from the Hindu community.

"Do not mock them or their pain will destroy you," he said.

Shah said the "Citizenship Amendment Bill will be brought before the implementation of NRC."

The Bill seeks to make migrants, who are Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, eligible for citizenship.

Shah, who is also the BJP chief, accused the Trinamool Congress of not allowing the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Bill in the Rajya Sabha.

He said Banerjee herself spoke against illegal migrants when she was in opposition but had changed her stance after they became her vote bank.

"We will not allow any refugee to go and we will not allow any infiltrator to stay," he said.

Shah urged the BJP workers to go to every house in Bengal and expose the Trinamool's campaign. "Political interest should not be above national interest and the interest of the state," he said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday that the BJP-led Central government will not allow any "infiltrator" to stay in the county while refugees belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi, and Christian religions will be given citizenship.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Tuesday that the BJP-led Central government will not allow any "infiltrator" to stay in the county while refugees belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Parsi, and Christian religions will be given citizenship. Addressing a public awakening programme in Kolkata on the National Register of Citizens (NRC), Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government will bring the Citizenship Amendment Bill before implementing the NRC. He accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of spreading misinformation about the NRC that Hindu refugees will have to leave West Bengal. The minister said that he had come to the state to assure the residents that refugees belonging to Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, Sikh, Parsi, and Christian religions will be not be asked to leave the country. He said the refugees belonging to these religious groups had come to India due to hardships they faced and most of them are from the Hindu community. "Do not mock them or their pain will destroy you," he said. Shah said the "Citizenship Amendment Bill will be brought before the implementation of NRC." The Bill seeks to make migrants, who are Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, eligible for citizenship. Shah, who is also the BJP chief, accused the Trinamool Congress of not allowing the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Bill in the Rajya Sabha. He said Banerjee herself spoke against illegal migrants when she was in opposition but had changed her stance after they became her vote bank. "We will not allow any refugee to go and we will not allow any infiltrator to stay," he said. Shah urged the BJP workers to go to every house in Bengal and expose the Trinamool's campaign. "Political interest should not be above national interest and the interest of the state," he said.

Citizenship Amendment Bill will be brought before implementation of NRC in West Bengal, says Amit Shah

Former Mayor of Bidhannagar and Trinamool Congress (TMC)&nbsp;MLA Sabyasachi Dutta joined&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday.

He joined BJP in the presence of party president Amit Shah.

On Monday, Dutta had said that he will be joining the party in the presence of Amit Shah.

"I will be joining BJP tomorrow at Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah," Dutta had said on Monday.

Last month, former Kolkata Mayor and TMC MLA Sovan Chatterjee joined the BJP.

In this year's Lok Sabha elections, the BJP made deep inroads in West Bengal, winning 18 out of 42 parliamentary constituencies while the TMC managed just 22, 12 less than it had won in the 2014 polls.

Since then, several TMC leaders including Biswajit Das Tusharkanti Bhattacharya, Monirul Islam and Sunil Singh have joined the BJP.

The Mamata Banerjee-led party has also lost control over five civic bodies of Bhatpara, Halisahar, Kanchrapara, Naihati and Garulia.

Former Mayor of Bidhannagar and Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sabyasachi Dutta joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday. He joined BJP in the presence of party president Amit Shah.

Former Mayor of Bidhannagar and Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sabyasachi Dutta joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday. He joined BJP in the presence of party president Amit Shah. On Monday, Dutta had said that he will be joining the party in the presence of Amit Shah. "I will be joining BJP tomorrow at Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah," Dutta had said on Monday. Last month, former Kolkata Mayor and TMC MLA Sovan Chatterjee joined the BJP. In this year's Lok Sabha elections, the BJP made deep inroads in West Bengal, winning 18 out of 42 parliamentary constituencies while the TMC managed just 22, 12 less than it had won in the 2014 polls. Since then, several TMC leaders including Biswajit Das Tusharkanti Bhattacharya, Monirul Islam and Sunil Singh have joined the BJP. The Mamata Banerjee-led party has also lost control over five civic bodies of Bhatpara, Halisahar, Kanchrapara, Naihati and Garulia.

Trinamool Congress MLA Sabyasachi Dutta joins Bharatiya Janata Party

The repealing&nbsp;of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-of-article-370-means-strengthening-of-indias-unity-integrity-ram-madhav-251280">Article 370</a> was a move towards permanent peace in Jammu and Kashmir and it reflects the honour and respect given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the security personnel who laid down their lives for the country, Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday. 
 
"I believe that the true and well-deserved respect to our personnel who have sacrificed their lives in Kashmir was given by revoking Article 370 and Article 35-A from Jammu and Kashmir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is a move for permanent peace in the valley," Shah said at the 27th Raising Day event of the Rapid Action Force (RAF), a specialised wing of the CRPF constituted to deal with riots. 
 
"It is a push for peace so that our personnel do not have to lay down their lives in the Valley but are there to take care of the usual law and order situation. People re-elected the Prime Minister with a big majority and he did the right thing in less than a month," he added. 
 
Provisions of Article 370, which gave special powers to Jammu and Kashmir, were repealed last month. 
 
Earlier in his speech, Shah praised the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and other paramilitary forces for their role in providing security to people. 
 
He said over 34,000 personnel who had laid down their lives for the internal security of the country have contributed immensely to the process of development. 
 
Shah also lauded the role of RAF since its inception. 
 
"RAF so far has fulfilled its role in keeping with the expectation of the people and the government," he said. 
 
Recounting the bravery of the CRPF personnel, Shah cited the terror attacks in Kashmir and the attacks on Parliament and the makeshift Ram temple in Ayodhya which were foiled by its personnel. 
 
Referring to the National Police Memorial in the national capital, he said it was completed and inaugurated at the initiative of Prime Minister. 
 
The Minister said the logo of the memorial, which is dedicated to the sacrifices of security personnel in internal security duties, will be unveiled on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary next month by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-has-great-expectations-from-india-tamil-still-resonates-in-the-us-pm-modi-at-iit-madras-252768">Prime Minister</a>.&nbsp;

The repealing of Article 370 was a move towards permanent peace in Jammu and Kashmir and it reflects the honour and respect given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the security personnel who laid down their lives for the country, Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday.

The repealing of Article 370 was a move towards permanent peace in Jammu and Kashmir and it reflects the honour and respect given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the security personnel who laid down their lives for the country, Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday. "I believe that the true and well-deserved respect to our personnel who have sacrificed their lives in Kashmir was given by revoking Article 370 and Article 35-A from Jammu and Kashmir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is a move for permanent peace in the valley," Shah said at the 27th Raising Day event of the Rapid Action Force (RAF), a specialised wing of the CRPF constituted to deal with riots. "It is a push for peace so that our personnel do not have to lay down their lives in the Valley but are there to take care of the usual law and order situation. People re-elected the Prime Minister with a big majority and he did the right thing in less than a month," he added. Provisions of Article 370, which gave special powers to Jammu and Kashmir, were repealed last month. Earlier in his speech, Shah praised the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and other paramilitary forces for their role in providing security to people. He said over 34,000 personnel who had laid down their lives for the internal security of the country have contributed immensely to the process of development. Shah also lauded the role of RAF since its inception. "RAF so far has fulfilled its role in keeping with the expectation of the people and the government," he said. Recounting the bravery of the CRPF personnel, Shah cited the terror attacks in Kashmir and the attacks on Parliament and the makeshift Ram temple in Ayodhya which were foiled by its personnel. Referring to the National Police Memorial in the national capital, he said it was completed and inaugurated at the initiative of Prime Minister. The Minister said the logo of the memorial, which is dedicated to the sacrifices of security personnel in internal security duties, will be unveiled on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary next month by the Prime Minister.

Removal of Article 370 step towards permanent peace in Jammu and Kashmir, says Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to speak on National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Bill at Netaji Indoor Stadium here on October 1.

This comes after the meeting between the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Amit Shah on September 18 in Delhi over NRC.

The Chief Minister on Monday stated that six people have died due to panic created over the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and asserted the exercise will not be implemented in the state.

"I am sad that 6 people have died in Bengal due to panic created over NRC. We will never allow NRC here. Please have faith in me," she said while speaking at a Trade Union meeting.

In the final NRC list published on August 31 for Assam, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons are found eligible for inclusion in final list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims.

The list is aimed at segregating Indian citizens living in Assam from those who had illegally entered the state from Bangladesh. 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to speak on National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Bill at Netaji Indoor Stadium here on October 1. This comes after the meeting between the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Amit Shah on September 18 in Delhi over NRC.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah to speak on National Register of Citizens (NRC) and Citizenship Amendment Bill at Netaji Indoor Stadium here on October 1. This comes after the meeting between the West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Amit Shah on September 18 in Delhi over NRC. The Chief Minister on Monday stated that six people have died due to panic created over the National Register of Citizens (NRC) and asserted the exercise will not be implemented in the state. "I am sad that 6 people have died in Bengal due to panic created over NRC. We will never allow NRC here. Please have faith in me," she said while speaking at a Trade Union meeting. In the final NRC list published on August 31 for Assam, a total of 3,11,21,004 persons are found eligible for inclusion in final list leaving out 19,06,657 persons, including those who did not submit their claims. The list is aimed at segregating Indian citizens living in Assam from those who had illegally entered the state from Bangladesh.

Amit Shah to speak on NRC, Citizenship Amendment Bill in Kolkata on October 1

National Commission for Minorities vice-chairman George Kurian has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah claiming that Christian girls are "soft target" for Islamist terror recruiters in Kerala.

Kurian has appealed Shah to take cognisance into the matter and order an investigation by the National Investigating Agency (NIA) and bring in an effective law to curb such activities.

"The spate of organised religious conversions and using the victims for terror activities by trapping them through 'love jihad' has shown that the Christian community is a soft target for Islamic radicals," Kurian wrote in his letter dated September 23.

Citing few examples, Kurian said that reports suggest that out of the 21 persons who joined the Islamic State from Kerala, five were converted from Christianity.

"The Kerala Catholic Bishops Conference (KCBC)'s Commission for Social Harmony and Vigilance had launched a campaign against this `social evil`. In its publication Jagratha, the Commission stated, `It is shocking that around 4,000 girls have been subjected to religious conversion since 2005 (till 2012) after they fell in love`," the letter reads.&nbsp;

Kurian said that the issue is "serious as it could lead to communal disharmony in the state."

"It was found that in most cases, the victims were brainwashed and in some cases, they were used as a courier for terror activities. Many a time the victims` families refuse to come out and report the issue fearing threat from the organised conversion terror activities," he wrote.

"It is important that the Union Home Ministry takes note of this alarming trend and order a probe by the National Investigating Agency and bring in an effective law to curb such fraudulent activities of radicalised elements," Kurian added.&nbsp;

National Commission for Minorities vice-chairman George Kurian has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah claiming that Christian girls are "soft target" for Islamist terror recruiters in Kerala.

National Commission for Minorities vice-chairman George Kurian has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah claiming that Christian girls are "soft target" for Islamist terror recruiters in Kerala. Kurian has appealed Shah to take cognisance into the matter and order an investigation by the National Investigating Agency (NIA) and bring in an effective law to curb such activities. "The spate of organised religious conversions and using the victims for terror activities by trapping them through 'love jihad' has shown that the Christian community is a soft target for Islamic radicals," Kurian wrote in his letter dated September 23. Citing few examples, Kurian said that reports suggest that out of the 21 persons who joined the Islamic State from Kerala, five were converted from Christianity. "The Kerala Catholic Bishops Conference (KCBC)'s Commission for Social Harmony and Vigilance had launched a campaign against this `social evil`. In its publication Jagratha, the Commission stated, `It is shocking that around 4,000 girls have been subjected to religious conversion since 2005 (till 2012) after they fell in love`," the letter reads. Kurian said that the issue is "serious as it could lead to communal disharmony in the state." "It was found that in most cases, the victims were brainwashed and in some cases, they were used as a courier for terror activities. Many a time the victims` families refuse to come out and report the issue fearing threat from the organised conversion terror activities," he wrote. "It is important that the Union Home Ministry takes note of this alarming trend and order a probe by the National Investigating Agency and bring in an effective law to curb such fraudulent activities of radicalised elements," Kurian added.

George Kurian appeals Shah to order NIA probe in religious conversions of Christian girls in Kerala

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday called the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/border-security-vital-for-both-us-and-india-says-trump-at-howdy-modi-event-in-houston-251331">"Howdy Modi"</a> event presided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump in Texas a "historic day in world politics".

"PM Modi's popularity has soared across the globe. It is a recognition of the people of India. The grand Howdy Modi event is a testimony of New India's power under the leadership of PM @narendramodi. A historic day in world politics!" Shah stated in a tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
PM Modi’s popularity has soared across the globe. It is a recognition of people of India. 
 
The grand <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HowdyModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HowdyModi</a> event is a testimony of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewIndia</a>’s power under the leadership of PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. 
 
I thank PM Modi for presenting a stronger India, a India of every Indian’s dream. <a href="https://t.co/FAl7KZFdQ7">pic.twitter.com/FAl7KZFdQ7</a>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1175843583447846912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The community summit, the first of its scale, was held at the NRG Stadium here in honour of PM Modi, who is currently in the United States on a week-long official trip to address the UN General Assembly, amongst other engagements.

Shah said that the event was unprecedented, which has left an "indelible footprint" of a stronger India on the world map.

"Leaders of the two most powerful democracies shared their ideas and dreams for a prosperous world together in a way that one has never seen before," Shah added.

He said that through the event a loud and clear message has been sent to the world that India will keep no stones unturned to keep itself safe and united.

"Thanks to PM Narendra Modi`s leadership, the entire world today stands firmly with India in its decisive fight against the menace of terrorism," said Shah.

Calling the bonding between the two leaders as "unprecedented", BJP National Working President J P Nadda said that the day will be remembered for decades.

"The gathering at NRG Stadium, Houston spoke itself about the popularity of @narendramodi Ji. The love and affection of every Indian for him, globally, has made this Community Summit a historical event. Howdy Modi will be recalled as a testimony of Modi Ji's stature across the world," Nadda tweeted from his official Twitter account.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday called the "Howdy Modi" event presided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump in Texas a "historic day in world politics".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday called the "Howdy Modi" event presided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump in Texas a "historic day in world politics". "PM Modi's popularity has soared across the globe. It is a recognition of the people of India. The grand Howdy Modi event is a testimony of New India's power under the leadership of PM @narendramodi. A historic day in world politics!" Shah stated in a tweet. PM Modi’s popularity has soared across the globe. It is a recognition of people of India. The grand #HowdyModi event is a testimony of #NewIndia’s power under the leadership of PM @narendramodi. I thank PM Modi for presenting a stronger India, a India of every Indian’s dream. pic.twitter.com/FAl7KZFdQ7 — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) September 22, 2019 × The community summit, the first of its scale, was held at the NRG Stadium here in honour of PM Modi, who is currently in the United States on a week-long official trip to address the UN General Assembly, amongst other engagements. Shah said that the event was unprecedented, which has left an "indelible footprint" of a stronger India on the world map. "Leaders of the two most powerful democracies shared their ideas and dreams for a prosperous world together in a way that one has never seen before," Shah added. He said that through the event a loud and clear message has been sent to the world that India will keep no stones unturned to keep itself safe and united. "Thanks to PM Narendra Modi`s leadership, the entire world today stands firmly with India in its decisive fight against the menace of terrorism," said Shah. Calling the bonding between the two leaders as "unprecedented", BJP National Working President J P Nadda said that the day will be remembered for decades. "The gathering at NRG Stadium, Houston spoke itself about the popularity of @narendramodi Ji. The love and affection of every Indian for him, globally, has made this Community Summit a historical event. Howdy Modi will be recalled as a testimony of Modi Ji's stature across the world," Nadda tweeted from his official Twitter account.

A historic day in world politics: Amit Shah on Howdy Modi event

Sounding the bugle for Maharashtra Assembly polls with the BJP's 'Jan Sampark Abhiyaan'&nbsp;over abrogation of Article 370 and 35A, Union Home Minister Amit Shah here on Sunday expressed confidence that the work done by the state government and the Centre will pay dividends by paving way for Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to retain power for the second consecutive term.

"This also happens to be the first programme of Maharashtra elections. The `Jan Sampark Abhiyaan` on the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A is going on across the country. This is the first programme in Mumbai," said Shah.

"I can say it with confidence that the NDA government would be formed in the state with a three-fourth majority and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will be your Chief Minister again. If I say so, I have sufficient ground for it," said Shah.

"The work done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Devendra Fadnavis led government in the state in the last over five years is remarkable. People have already indicated their mood in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. The ease with which Prime Minister Modi abrogated Article 370 and 35A is praiseworthy," said Shah.

"I congratulate Prime Minister Modi`s bravery and grit. He removed Article 370 and 35A in the very first session of the Parliament as soon as we formed the government for the second time with 305 members," he added.

He said the Article 370 is a political issue for the Congress and its leader Rahul Gandhi while for the BJP abrogation of Article 370 and 35A is part of its effort to keep country undivided.

"Rahul Gandhi says Article 370 is a political issue. Rahul Baba, you have come into politics now, but three generations of the BJP have given their life for Kashmir, for the abrogation of Article 370. It is not a political matter for us. It is part of our goal to keep Bharat Maa undivided," said Shah.

"Forty thousand people were killed and Kashmiri pundits, Sufis, and Sikhs were driven out from the state in 10 years between 1990 and 2000. Rahul Gandhi cares about his vote bank and how to remain in power and hence is not moved by it. However, the sacrifice of 40,000 people is like a pain in our heart," he said.

He also said the issue of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is because of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru announcing "untimely ceasefire" with Pakistan.

"The issue of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) would not have been there had the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru did not announce an untimely ceasefire in 1947 when the Army was strongly fighting against Pakistani infiltrators in Jammu and Kashmir," said Shah.

The Election Commission of India on Saturday announced that the single-phase Assembly elections for the 288-member Maharashtra and 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21, while the counting of votes will be done on October 24.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Sounding the bugle for Maharashtra Assembly polls with the BJP's 'Jan Sampark Abhiyaan' over abrogation of Article 370 and 35A, Union Home Minister Amit Shah here on Sunday expressed confidence that the work done by the state government and the Centre will pay dividends by paving way for Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to retain power for the second consecutive term.

Sounding the bugle for Maharashtra Assembly polls with the BJP's 'Jan Sampark Abhiyaan' over abrogation of Article 370 and 35A, Union Home Minister Amit Shah here on Sunday expressed confidence that the work done by the state government and the Centre will pay dividends by paving way for Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to retain power for the second consecutive term. "This also happens to be the first programme of Maharashtra elections. The `Jan Sampark Abhiyaan` on the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A is going on across the country. This is the first programme in Mumbai," said Shah. "I can say it with confidence that the NDA government would be formed in the state with a three-fourth majority and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will be your Chief Minister again. If I say so, I have sufficient ground for it," said Shah. "The work done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Devendra Fadnavis led government in the state in the last over five years is remarkable. People have already indicated their mood in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. The ease with which Prime Minister Modi abrogated Article 370 and 35A is praiseworthy," said Shah. "I congratulate Prime Minister Modi`s bravery and grit. He removed Article 370 and 35A in the very first session of the Parliament as soon as we formed the government for the second time with 305 members," he added. He said the Article 370 is a political issue for the Congress and its leader Rahul Gandhi while for the BJP abrogation of Article 370 and 35A is part of its effort to keep country undivided. "Rahul Gandhi says Article 370 is a political issue. Rahul Baba, you have come into politics now, but three generations of the BJP have given their life for Kashmir, for the abrogation of Article 370. It is not a political matter for us. It is part of our goal to keep Bharat Maa undivided," said Shah. "Forty thousand people were killed and Kashmiri pundits, Sufis, and Sikhs were driven out from the state in 10 years between 1990 and 2000. Rahul Gandhi cares about his vote bank and how to remain in power and hence is not moved by it. However, the sacrifice of 40,000 people is like a pain in our heart," he said. He also said the issue of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) is because of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru announcing "untimely ceasefire" with Pakistan. "The issue of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) would not have been there had the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru did not announce an untimely ceasefire in 1947 when the Army was strongly fighting against Pakistani infiltrators in Jammu and Kashmir," said Shah. The Election Commission of India on Saturday announced that the single-phase Assembly elections for the 288-member Maharashtra and 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21, while the counting of votes will be done on October 24.

Good work will help BJP retain power in Maharashtra: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced big-ticket reforms in the economy by slashing corporate tax.

"Rationalisation of corporate tax had been a long-pending demand, which is now a reality. This move will make our corporates globally competitive and our markets much more exciting for potential investors," tweeted Shah.

"Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub and this decision along with previous announcements on relaxing FDI will go a long way in realising this objective. I congratulate PM @narendramodi and FM @nsitharaman for announcing these bold measures," he tweeted.

Bringing in tax cuts and fiscal reliefs through an Ordinance, the government on Friday slashed domestic corporate tax to an effective 25.17 per cent, inclusive of all surcharges and cess, in a bid to promote growth and investments amid an economic slowdown that would cost the exchequer Rs 1.45 lakh crore.

"A new provision has been inserted in the Income Tax Act from financial year 2019-20 (beginning April 1) which allows any domestic company an option to pay income tax at the rate of 22 per cent subject to the condition that they will not avail any exemption or incentive," Sitharaman told the media ahead of a GST Council meeting.

Today's announcements top a series of measures the finance minister has announced in the last one month to perk up the economy.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced big-ticket reforms in the economy by slashing corporate tax.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced big-ticket reforms in the economy by slashing corporate tax. "Rationalisation of corporate tax had been a long-pending demand, which is now a reality. This move will make our corporates globally competitive and our markets much more exciting for potential investors," tweeted Shah. "Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub and this decision along with previous announcements on relaxing FDI will go a long way in realising this objective. I congratulate PM @narendramodi and FM @nsitharaman for announcing these bold measures," he tweeted. Bringing in tax cuts and fiscal reliefs through an Ordinance, the government on Friday slashed domestic corporate tax to an effective 25.17 per cent, inclusive of all surcharges and cess, in a bid to promote growth and investments amid an economic slowdown that would cost the exchequer Rs 1.45 lakh crore. "A new provision has been inserted in the Income Tax Act from financial year 2019-20 (beginning April 1) which allows any domestic company an option to pay income tax at the rate of 22 per cent subject to the condition that they will not avail any exemption or incentive," Sitharaman told the media ahead of a GST Council meeting. Today's announcements top a series of measures the finance minister has announced in the last one month to perk up the economy.

Modi government committed to making India a big manufacturing hub: Amit Shah

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shahs-call-for-hindi-as-national-language-triggers-political-row-249706">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> chaired the 29th meeting of the Northern Zonal Council (NZC) here on Friday.

The Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar, who is also Vice-Chairman of the Council, hosted the meeting.

The Northern Zonal Council consists of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Jammu &amp; Kashmir, and Delhi.

Chief Ministers from the member states in the zone along with two ministers each, administrators of Union Territories, Chief Secretaries and senior officers from the State Governments and the Central Government are members of NZC.

The Council takes up issues involving Centre and States and one/many States falling in the Zone. The Zonal Councils thus provide a forum for resolving disputes and irritants between Centre and States and among many States in the Zone.

The Zonal Councils discuss a broad range of issues which include boundary-related disputes, security, infrastructure-related matters like road, transport, industries, water, power, matters pertaining to forests and environment, housing, education, food security, tourism, transport, etc.

Five Zonal Councils were set up in the year 1957 under the States Reorganization Act, 1956. The Union Home Minister is the Chairman of each of these five Zonal Councils and Chief Ministers of the host State (to be chosen by routine every year) is the Vice-Chairman. Two more Ministers from each State are nominated as Members by the Governor.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 29th meeting of the Northern Zonal Council (NZC) here on Friday. The Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar, who is also Vice-Chairman of the Council, hosted the meeting.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the 29th meeting of the Northern Zonal Council (NZC) here on Friday. The Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar, who is also Vice-Chairman of the Council, hosted the meeting. The Northern Zonal Council consists of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, and Delhi. Chief Ministers from the member states in the zone along with two ministers each, administrators of Union Territories, Chief Secretaries and senior officers from the State Governments and the Central Government are members of NZC. The Council takes up issues involving Centre and States and one/many States falling in the Zone. The Zonal Councils thus provide a forum for resolving disputes and irritants between Centre and States and among many States in the Zone. The Zonal Councils discuss a broad range of issues which include boundary-related disputes, security, infrastructure-related matters like road, transport, industries, water, power, matters pertaining to forests and environment, housing, education, food security, tourism, transport, etc. Five Zonal Councils were set up in the year 1957 under the States Reorganization Act, 1956. The Union Home Minister is the Chairman of each of these five Zonal Councils and Chief Ministers of the host State (to be chosen by routine every year) is the Vice-Chairman. Two more Ministers from each State are nominated as Members by the Governor.

Home Minister Amit Shah chairs 29th meeting of Northern Zonal Council

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah will address his party's MPs on September 21, during which he is likely to announce programs to be taken up to spread the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of the Father of the Nation.

Sources in the party said that Shah will address the MPs, who have been asked to be present at state party headquarters on September 21, through video conferencing. Shah will be present at the BJP headquarters in Delhi.

The party has already asked its MPs to take out 'padyatras' across the country to spread the teachings of the Father of the Nation.

Shah, also the Union Home Minister, is likely to officially announce the initiatives and activities to be taken up by the MPs in their respective constituencies as part of celebrations.

During the course of the yatra, Shah is likely to ask leaders to make cleanliness drive, tree plantation, eliminate single-use plastic and other social initiatives of the Modi government a mass movement.

The government has decided to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at the national and international level to propagate his message. A committee has also been constituted for this purpose.

In his last address on his monthly radio program 'Mann ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that mega preparations are underway to mark the birth anniversary.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah will address his party's MPs on September 21, during which he is likely to announce programs to be taken up to spread the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of the Father of the Nation.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah will address his party's MPs on September 21, during which he is likely to announce programs to be taken up to spread the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of the Father of the Nation. Sources in the party said that Shah will address the MPs, who have been asked to be present at state party headquarters on September 21, through video conferencing. Shah will be present at the BJP headquarters in Delhi. The party has already asked its MPs to take out 'padyatras' across the country to spread the teachings of the Father of the Nation. Shah, also the Union Home Minister, is likely to officially announce the initiatives and activities to be taken up by the MPs in their respective constituencies as part of celebrations. During the course of the yatra, Shah is likely to ask leaders to make cleanliness drive, tree plantation, eliminate single-use plastic and other social initiatives of the Modi government a mass movement. The government has decided to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at the national and international level to propagate his message. A committee has also been constituted for this purpose. In his last address on his monthly radio program 'Mann ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that mega preparations are underway to mark the birth anniversary.

Home Minister Amit Shah to addres BJP MPs on September 21

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday and said she raised the contentious issue of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with him.

"Had come here to discuss the 19 lakh people not included in the NRC. They should all be included in it," Mamata said after the meeting at Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) here.

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West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on her meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah: He did not say anything about NRC in West Bengal. I have already clarified my stand that NRC is not needed in West Bengal. <a href="https://t.co/XyJEpyk5JY">https://t.co/XyJEpyk5JY</a>
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The chief minister had yesterday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, her first meeting with him after general elections. During her meeting with Modi, the issue of West Bengal's name change to Bangla was discussed. The Chief Minister made it clear that any suggestion from the Centre will be accepted.

"Bengal is open to any 'addition or alternation' on the name change," Banerjee had said. The Chief Minister specifically mentioned that the meeting was "government to government sans political interferences".

At present, BJP is the key opponent of TMC after the former performed exceptionally well in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections, where the party won 18 seats.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday and said she raised the contentious issue of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with him.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee met Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday and said she raised the contentious issue of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with him. "Had come here to discuss the 19 lakh people not included in the NRC. They should all be included in it," Mamata said after the meeting at Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) here. West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on her meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah: He did not say anything about NRC in West Bengal. I have already clarified my stand that NRC is not needed in West Bengal. https://t.co/XyJEpyk5JY — ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2019 × The chief minister had yesterday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, her first meeting with him after general elections. During her meeting with Modi, the issue of West Bengal's name change to Bangla was discussed. The Chief Minister made it clear that any suggestion from the Centre will be accepted. "Bengal is open to any 'addition or alternation' on the name change," Banerjee had said. The Chief Minister specifically mentioned that the meeting was "government to government sans political interferences". At present, BJP is the key opponent of TMC after the former performed exceptionally well in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections, where the party won 18 seats.

Mamata banerjee meets Amit Shah, says discussed issue of 19 lakh exculded from NRC

Setting the tone for the party's election campaign in the upcoming Assembly polls in Jharkhand, Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday described the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's bold decision for securing India's integrity and asked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shahs-call-for-hindi-as-national-language-triggers-political-row-249706">Shah</a>, who kicked off the BJP's 'Janadesh Yatra' here, also addressed a rally and devoted most part of his speech on Article 370, a clear indication that the issue with fervour of nationalism will be at the top of party's campaign theme.

"By removing Article 370, Modi Ji has shown Pakistan its place and shown it to the world that Kashmir is an inalienable part of India. No one can raise an eye on Kashmir now," he said.

Accusing Congress of putting roadblocks when the Prime Minister takes bold decisions for securing India's integrity and security, Shah asked Congress to clarify whether it stands with India's interest or otherwise.

"When Article 370 and 35A were removed, Congress opposed it tooth and nail. Rahul Gandhi opposed surgical strikes, sought proof of airstrikes and supported the JNU 'tukde tukde' gang. Take a decision in which direction you want to move," he said.

Shah said that the BJP has always maintained that Article 370 is against the unity and integrity of India but Congress has always opposed the stand.

"Congress party must clarify whether they stand with India's interest or otherwise," he said adding that when Rahul Gandhi goes for campaigning in Haryana, Maharashtra and Jharkhand, he should tell the voters whether he is in support of the removal of Article 370 or opposed to it.

Suggesting the opposition that when the country's interests are in question, Shah said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-eyes-200-seats-in-west-bengal-249864">BJP</a> always stood strong with the government on matters of the nation's security and integrity and stressed that no one should get bogged down by party politics.

He reminded the Congress that former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, despite being in opposition, wholeheartedly supported the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1971 when Bangladesh got independence.

"When in the 1990s, Pakistan had raised the Kashmir issue in the United Nations, the then Prime Minister Narasimha Rao requested Atal Ji to present India's stance in UN, which he accepted willingly despite being in the opposition in Parliament," Shah said.

"As the elections are around the corner, the people of Jharkhand should decide whether they are with Modi Ji, who abrogated Article 370 or with them who wants it to be continued," the BJP president added.

Jharkhand, along with Haryana and Maharashtra, is set to hold assembly elections later this year.

Earlier, Shah hailed Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and appealed to the people to elect the BJP back to power to keep the fast-paced development going on in the state.

He also hit out at the Congress and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) led opposition's alliance and claimed that when both were in power they did nothing for the state's development.

"The Congress gave Jharkhand Rs 55,200 crores in 10 years but the Modi government gave Rs 1,45,345 crores in half the period," Shah said. 
The BJP president asserted that Naxalism is on the decline in Jharkhand since the Modi government is in power, and various welfare schemes have been successfully implemented in the state.

Shah also recalled the creation of Jharkhand and said the BJP always supported the demand of the people for a new state.

"This dream was realized by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led BJP government. Atal Ji laid the foundation and Modi Ji brought fast-paced development in Jharkhand. Modi Ji's vision for a developed Jharkhand was implemented seamlessly by the Raghubar Das government," the BJP president said.

Setting the tone for the party's election campaign in the upcoming Assembly polls in Jharkhand, Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday described the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's bold decision for securing India's integrity and asked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on it.

Setting the tone for the party's election campaign in the upcoming Assembly polls in Jharkhand, Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday described the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's bold decision for securing India's integrity and asked Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to clear his party's stand on it. Shah, who kicked off the BJP's 'Janadesh Yatra' here, also addressed a rally and devoted most part of his speech on Article 370, a clear indication that the issue with fervour of nationalism will be at the top of party's campaign theme. "By removing Article 370, Modi Ji has shown Pakistan its place and shown it to the world that Kashmir is an inalienable part of India. No one can raise an eye on Kashmir now," he said. Accusing Congress of putting roadblocks when the Prime Minister takes bold decisions for securing India's integrity and security, Shah asked Congress to clarify whether it stands with India's interest or otherwise. "When Article 370 and 35A were removed, Congress opposed it tooth and nail. Rahul Gandhi opposed surgical strikes, sought proof of airstrikes and supported the JNU 'tukde tukde' gang. Take a decision in which direction you want to move," he said. Shah said that the BJP has always maintained that Article 370 is against the unity and integrity of India but Congress has always opposed the stand. "Congress party must clarify whether they stand with India's interest or otherwise," he said adding that when Rahul Gandhi goes for campaigning in Haryana, Maharashtra and Jharkhand, he should tell the voters whether he is in support of the removal of Article 370 or opposed to it. Suggesting the opposition that when the country's interests are in question, Shah said the BJP always stood strong with the government on matters of the nation's security and integrity and stressed that no one should get bogged down by party politics. He reminded the Congress that former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, despite being in opposition, wholeheartedly supported the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1971 when Bangladesh got independence. "When in the 1990s, Pakistan had raised the Kashmir issue in the United Nations, the then Prime Minister Narasimha Rao requested Atal Ji to present India's stance in UN, which he accepted willingly despite being in the opposition in Parliament," Shah said. "As the elections are around the corner, the people of Jharkhand should decide whether they are with Modi Ji, who abrogated Article 370 or with them who wants it to be continued," the BJP president added. Jharkhand, along with Haryana and Maharashtra, is set to hold assembly elections later this year. Earlier, Shah hailed Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and appealed to the people to elect the BJP back to power to keep the fast-paced development going on in the state. He also hit out at the Congress and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) led opposition's alliance and claimed that when both were in power they did nothing for the state's development. "The Congress gave Jharkhand Rs 55,200 crores in 10 years but the Modi government gave Rs 1,45,345 crores in half the period," Shah said. The BJP president asserted that Naxalism is on the decline in Jharkhand since the Modi government is in power, and various welfare schemes have been successfully implemented in the state. Shah also recalled the creation of Jharkhand and said the BJP always supported the demand of the people for a new state. "This dream was realized by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led BJP government. Atal Ji laid the foundation and Modi Ji brought fast-paced development in Jharkhand. Modi Ji's vision for a developed Jharkhand was implemented seamlessly by the Raghubar Das government," the BJP president said.

With Kashmir top on agenda, Shah kicks off campaign in Jharkhand; slams Congress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated his 69th birthday on Tuesday. Watch this video to know more.

PM Modi had lunch with mother on his 69th birthday

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan was the latest to join the chorus of politicians in Tamil Nadu to oppose the comments of Home Minister Amit Shah, who had spoken at a ‘Hindi Day’ event and said that Hindi should be India’s common and unifying language.&nbsp;

Following Amit Shah’s comments made at the Hindi day event, leaders of the DMK, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee and NDA-ally Pattali Makkal Katchi, among others had expressed their disapproval.&nbsp;

In a video message, Kamal Haasan stated that a lot of kings had given up their kingdoms for the creation of India, but a lot of Indians and states vehemently opposed giving up their language, culture and traditions. “When India became a Constitutional republic in 1950, the Government promised the same to the people and asserted that no Shah or Sultan or Samrat can attempt to change it”.&nbsp;

Making a mention of the 2017 protests demanding the conduct of the bull-taming sport he said, “Jallikattu was just a protest, the battle for our language will be exponentially bigger than that. India or Tamil Nadu does not need or deserve such a battle.”

“Most of the Nation happily sings their National Anthem in Bengali with pride, and will continue to do so. The reason is the poet who wrote the National Anthem gave due respect to all languages and culture within the Anthem. And hence, it became our Anthem. Do not make an inclusive India into an exclusive one. All will suffer because of such short-sighted folly” he added.&nbsp;

Earlier, DMK President MK Stalin had also slammed the Home Minister’s comments, “The Prime Minister should clarify his stand, otherwise the DMK will get ready for another language war. This is India not ‘Hindia’. There is a threat to India’s unity after attempting to thrust Hindi in Railways, Postal jobs. DMK will not hesitate to unite states which stand to lose rights due to Hindi dominance”.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan was the latest to join the chorus of politicians in Tamil Nadu to oppose the comments of Home Minister Amit Shah, who had spoken at a ‘Hindi Day’ event and said that Hindi should be India’s common and unifying language.

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan was the latest to join the chorus of politicians in Tamil Nadu to oppose the comments of Home Minister Amit Shah, who had spoken at a ‘Hindi Day’ event and said that Hindi should be India’s common and unifying language. Following Amit Shah’s comments made at the Hindi day event, leaders of the DMK, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee and NDA-ally Pattali Makkal Katchi, among others had expressed their disapproval. In a video message, Kamal Haasan stated that a lot of kings had given up their kingdoms for the creation of India, but a lot of Indians and states vehemently opposed giving up their language, culture and traditions. “When India became a Constitutional republic in 1950, the Government promised the same to the people and asserted that no Shah or Sultan or Samrat can attempt to change it”. Making a mention of the 2017 protests demanding the conduct of the bull-taming sport he said, “Jallikattu was just a protest, the battle for our language will be exponentially bigger than that. India or Tamil Nadu does not need or deserve such a battle.” “Most of the Nation happily sings their National Anthem in Bengali with pride, and will continue to do so. The reason is the poet who wrote the National Anthem gave due respect to all languages and culture within the Anthem. And hence, it became our Anthem. Do not make an inclusive India into an exclusive one. All will suffer because of such short-sighted folly” he added. Earlier, DMK President MK Stalin had also slammed the Home Minister’s comments, “The Prime Minister should clarify his stand, otherwise the DMK will get ready for another language war. This is India not ‘Hindia’. There is a threat to India’s unity after attempting to thrust Hindi in Railways, Postal jobs. DMK will not hesitate to unite states which stand to lose rights due to Hindi dominance”.

Kamal Haasan joins Tamil Nadu politicians in chorus against Amit Shah’s Hindi pitch; warns of battle for language

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah and the party's working president JP Nadda launched the 'Sewa Saptah'&nbsp;on Saturday by meeting patients admitted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), enquiring about their health, distributing fruits to them and sweeping hospital floor.

"Sewa Saptah"- the programme spanning a week is being observed to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday on September 17.

Speaking on the occasion BJP chief Amit Shah said, "Our workers would begin celebrating Seva Saptah from today. Our prime minister has dedicated his entire life for the service of the country."

Sewa Saptah is being observed in between September 14 to 20.

During this week, innumerable social initiatives have been planned across the nation by the party which include blood donation camps, eye check-up, and medical camps.

Several exhibitions will also be showcased that will depict the social work done by Prime Minister Modi.

These exhibitions will be organised in every district by BJP cadres to display the feat of the Central government under Modi's leadership.

South Delhi MP Ramesh Bidhuri also distributed fruits and checked on the well being of the patients.

"This is BJP culture that in moments of celebrations, we think of serving people unlike other parties," said Bidhuri.

Other MPs present on the occasion were Meenakshi Lekhi, Vijay Goel, Hans Raj Hans, and Parvesh Verma.

The week-long events are also expected to help ensure the party to reach out to the masses in what is being seen as the first mass contact programme across the nation post-Lok Sabha poll victory of the BJP.

A message to not use plastic was also sent across as the distribution of these commodities was done in paper and jute bags.

Patients and attendants were thrilled to see former cricketer and East Delhi MP Gautam Gambhir amongst themselves.

Gambhir was mobbed by the people vying to get selfies clicked with the former cricketer. While distributing the fruits he also asked about the health and well-being of those admitted in the hospital.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah and the party's working president JP Nadda launched the 'Sewa Saptah' on Saturday by meeting patients admitted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), enquiring about their health, distributing fruits to them and sweeping hospital floor.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah and the party's working president JP Nadda launched the 'Sewa Saptah' on Saturday by meeting patients admitted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), enquiring about their health, distributing fruits to them and sweeping hospital floor. "Sewa Saptah"- the programme spanning a week is being observed to mark Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday on September 17. Speaking on the occasion BJP chief Amit Shah said, "Our workers would begin celebrating Seva Saptah from today. Our prime minister has dedicated his entire life for the service of the country." Sewa Saptah is being observed in between September 14 to 20. During this week, innumerable social initiatives have been planned across the nation by the party which include blood donation camps, eye check-up, and medical camps. Several exhibitions will also be showcased that will depict the social work done by Prime Minister Modi. These exhibitions will be organised in every district by BJP cadres to display the feat of the Central government under Modi's leadership. South Delhi MP Ramesh Bidhuri also distributed fruits and checked on the well being of the patients. "This is BJP culture that in moments of celebrations, we think of serving people unlike other parties," said Bidhuri. Other MPs present on the occasion were Meenakshi Lekhi, Vijay Goel, Hans Raj Hans, and Parvesh Verma. The week-long events are also expected to help ensure the party to reach out to the masses in what is being seen as the first mass contact programme across the nation post-Lok Sabha poll victory of the BJP. A message to not use plastic was also sent across as the distribution of these commodities was done in paper and jute bags. Patients and attendants were thrilled to see former cricketer and East Delhi MP Gautam Gambhir amongst themselves. Gambhir was mobbed by the people vying to get selfies clicked with the former cricketer. While distributing the fruits he also asked about the health and well-being of those admitted in the hospital.

Amit Shah, JP Nadda launch 'Sewa Saptah'; meet patients at AIIMS

Union Home Minister Amit Shah's call to culturally unify India with Hindi as it's national language on Saturday triggered a row with several opposition leaders training their guns at him asking him to reconsider his appeal as it "poses a danger to national unity".

Speaking as chief guest at a function to grace Hindi Divas, Shah said that while unity in diversity is India's defining trait, a common language is needed as a culturally unifying factor.

"While diversity in languages is the strength of our nation, a national language is needed so that foreign languages and cultures do not overpower our own," he said proclaiming that next year, the Hindi Divas event would be a public programme, as Hindi belongs to the people.

He said that the government would take Hindi Divas outside Delhi, and would celebrate a Hindi Saptah across the country.

He called Hindi the heart and soul of the freedom struggle.

"Our power to express our culture will die in the absence of our national language," he said.

Leading the attack, DMK chief MK Stalin asked Shah to take back his remarks and said they pose "a danger to the national unity."

"After BJP came to power for the second consecutive time, there has been continuous attacks on the Tamil language. DMK has been waging its protest against Hindi imposition. Amit Shah's remarks have come as a jolt to us. Such comments pose a danger to the unity of the country," he said.

Congress leader Anand Sharma said at a press conference here that controversies should not be stirred "on emotive and sensitive issues", which have been settled by the maturity of India's constitution-makers.

He also emphasized on a three-language formula and said no indication should be given about a rethink "which will create strife and unrest in the country".

He said the Home Minister should know that Hindi has been declared the official language long back and noted that the Constitution and recognises 22 languages.

"These are all Indian languages, spoken by large number of people. We should not stir up controversies on emotive and sensitive issues, which have been settled by the maturity of India's constitution-makers and the Prime Minister after Independence. I am referring to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. "

The three-language formula must not be tinkered and no indication should be given on a rethink which will create strife and unrest in the country," he said.

Sharma also spoke of the significance of English as a language to be "globally competitive".

"All the languages, besides Hindi, which is spoken by a majority of our people, particularly important (is) the language in which you have asked the question and in which I am answering, if you have to be globally competitive and to be global leaders. But whether it is Tamil, Kannad, Bengali, Odia, Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, Urdu, these all are Indian languages, I can go on. So, yes, we celebrate the Hindi Diwas. Hindi is my mother tongue but I fully respect all Indian languages," he said.

The Congress party attacked the BJP, saying the threat to the country was not from languages but from ideology of the ruling party.

"Linguistic diversity has been India's biggest strength. Hindi, due to its openness and diversity, has adopted words from several languages and has enriched itself. India is already united. Your ideology poses a threat to it, not the languages," the Congress said on its official twitter handle.

Party leader and Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy said that Shah should consider the sentiments of the people of the southern region and not push Hindi, as such measures are against the integrity of the country.

"To push Hindi alone is not going to keep the country together. We have to respect all religions, cultures and languages, that is the main mantra of Indian governance," he said.

"I think Home Minister will review (his remarks) because sentiments of people of Tamil Nadu are affected and there is a lot of opposition from Tamil people. I hope and trust Home Minister will consider the sentiments of the people of the southern region," he said.

Karnataka unit of Congress also hit out at Shah.

"Amit Shah should brush up his history knowledge. India is a country of unity in diversity and has never banked on one language for its existence. BJP agenda is the implementation of sinister hidden agenda of RSS to divide our country by inciting people on grounds of religion and language," the state unit said in a tweet.

CPI (M) also slammed Shah and said his comments were attacked on core principles of diversity.

"The push for one language by Amit Shah is an attack on core principles of diversity of this country. We must respect all languages and one specific language should not be forced on people. Imposing Hindi on others is the RSS plan of One Nation, One Language which is shameful," the party said.

Shah, in his address, appealed to people to accept Hindi as the national language to get connected while asserting that the growth of Hindi will never be at the cost of any other language and added that Hindi is the language of coexistence.

He said there was a unanimous consensus for Hindi as a national language in the Constituent Assembly, in spite of the Assembly's sheer diversity.

"This decision was an important factor in ensuring the cultural unity of India. A country that forgets its language kills its cultural existence. Language connects us to the roots of the nation," he said.

Shah remembered former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as the first Minister of External Affairs to give a speech in Hindi at the United Nations in 1977 and hailed this as a seminal step to break the inferiority complex of Indians with respect to Hindi.

He also hailed former Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj`s contribution to the global growth of Hindi, who encouraged the UN to use more Hindi, including on Social Media.

This eventually led to the Hindi Twitter account of the UN.

Calling upon institutions and individuals to be committed to the growth and use of Hindi, he stressed on the need to proliferate Hindi in technical fields like medicine, engineering and law.

He expressed confidence that Hindi would have reached ever greater heights by 2024 elections.

On this day in 1949, the Constituent Assembly adopted Hindi written in Devanagari as the official language.

Earlier in the day, Shah, in a tweet, had asked people to use Hindi more to realise the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

"On the occasion of Hindi Day, I appeal to all citizens to use their mother tongue and Hindi more to realise the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel," Shah said in a tweet.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah's call to culturally unify India with Hindi as it's national language on Saturday triggered a row with several opposition leaders training their guns at him asking him to reconsider his appeal as it "poses a danger to national unity".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah's call to culturally unify India with Hindi as it's national language on Saturday triggered a row with several opposition leaders training their guns at him asking him to reconsider his appeal as it "poses a danger to national unity". Speaking as chief guest at a function to grace Hindi Divas, Shah said that while unity in diversity is India's defining trait, a common language is needed as a culturally unifying factor. "While diversity in languages is the strength of our nation, a national language is needed so that foreign languages and cultures do not overpower our own," he said proclaiming that next year, the Hindi Divas event would be a public programme, as Hindi belongs to the people. He said that the government would take Hindi Divas outside Delhi, and would celebrate a Hindi Saptah across the country. He called Hindi the heart and soul of the freedom struggle. "Our power to express our culture will die in the absence of our national language," he said. Leading the attack, DMK chief MK Stalin asked Shah to take back his remarks and said they pose "a danger to the national unity." "After BJP came to power for the second consecutive time, there has been continuous attacks on the Tamil language. DMK has been waging its protest against Hindi imposition. Amit Shah's remarks have come as a jolt to us. Such comments pose a danger to the unity of the country," he said. Congress leader Anand Sharma said at a press conference here that controversies should not be stirred "on emotive and sensitive issues", which have been settled by the maturity of India's constitution-makers. He also emphasized on a three-language formula and said no indication should be given about a rethink "which will create strife and unrest in the country". He said the Home Minister should know that Hindi has been declared the official language long back and noted that the Constitution and recognises 22 languages. "These are all Indian languages, spoken by large number of people. We should not stir up controversies on emotive and sensitive issues, which have been settled by the maturity of India's constitution-makers and the Prime Minister after Independence. I am referring to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. " The three-language formula must not be tinkered and no indication should be given on a rethink which will create strife and unrest in the country," he said. Sharma also spoke of the significance of English as a language to be "globally competitive". "All the languages, besides Hindi, which is spoken by a majority of our people, particularly important (is) the language in which you have asked the question and in which I am answering, if you have to be globally competitive and to be global leaders. But whether it is Tamil, Kannad, Bengali, Odia, Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, Urdu, these all are Indian languages, I can go on. So, yes, we celebrate the Hindi Diwas. Hindi is my mother tongue but I fully respect all Indian languages," he said. The Congress party attacked the BJP, saying the threat to the country was not from languages but from ideology of the ruling party. "Linguistic diversity has been India's biggest strength. Hindi, due to its openness and diversity, has adopted words from several languages and has enriched itself. India is already united. Your ideology poses a threat to it, not the languages," the Congress said on its official twitter handle. Party leader and Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy said that Shah should consider the sentiments of the people of the southern region and not push Hindi, as such measures are against the integrity of the country. "To push Hindi alone is not going to keep the country together. We have to respect all religions, cultures and languages, that is the main mantra of Indian governance," he said. "I think Home Minister will review (his remarks) because sentiments of people of Tamil Nadu are affected and there is a lot of opposition from Tamil people. I hope and trust Home Minister will consider the sentiments of the people of the southern region," he said. Karnataka unit of Congress also hit out at Shah. "Amit Shah should brush up his history knowledge. India is a country of unity in diversity and has never banked on one language for its existence. BJP agenda is the implementation of sinister hidden agenda of RSS to divide our country by inciting people on grounds of religion and language," the state unit said in a tweet. CPI (M) also slammed Shah and said his comments were attacked on core principles of diversity. "The push for one language by Amit Shah is an attack on core principles of diversity of this country. We must respect all languages and one specific language should not be forced on people. Imposing Hindi on others is the RSS plan of One Nation, One Language which is shameful," the party said. Shah, in his address, appealed to people to accept Hindi as the national language to get connected while asserting that the growth of Hindi will never be at the cost of any other language and added that Hindi is the language of coexistence. He said there was a unanimous consensus for Hindi as a national language in the Constituent Assembly, in spite of the Assembly's sheer diversity. "This decision was an important factor in ensuring the cultural unity of India. A country that forgets its language kills its cultural existence. Language connects us to the roots of the nation," he said. Shah remembered former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as the first Minister of External Affairs to give a speech in Hindi at the United Nations in 1977 and hailed this as a seminal step to break the inferiority complex of Indians with respect to Hindi. He also hailed former Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj`s contribution to the global growth of Hindi, who encouraged the UN to use more Hindi, including on Social Media. This eventually led to the Hindi Twitter account of the UN. Calling upon institutions and individuals to be committed to the growth and use of Hindi, he stressed on the need to proliferate Hindi in technical fields like medicine, engineering and law. He expressed confidence that Hindi would have reached ever greater heights by 2024 elections. On this day in 1949, the Constituent Assembly adopted Hindi written in Devanagari as the official language. Earlier in the day, Shah, in a tweet, had asked people to use Hindi more to realise the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. "On the occasion of Hindi Day, I appeal to all citizens to use their mother tongue and Hindi more to realise the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel," Shah said in a tweet.

Amit Shah's call for Hindi as national language triggers political row

On the occasion of Hindi Diwas, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday stressed on the need to have a unifying language that becomes a mark of India`s identity in the world and keeps "foreign languages" from finding a place in the country.

"Though I believe that the diversity of languages and dialects is one of the biggest strengths of India, there is a need for our country to have one language, so that foreign languages don`t find a place. This is why our freedom fighters envisioned Hindi as `Raj bhasha`," Shah said in his address at a Hindi Diwas programme.

Shah said that any nation that abandons its language cannot preserve its culture and consequently loses its existence.

"On the occasion of Hindi Diwas, we should introspect. There are many countries in this world whose languages have become extinct. The country that abandons its language loses its existence too. The country that loses its language can`t preserve its culture," he said.

"We need to understand that the richness of Indian languages cannot be compared with any foreign languages," he added.

The Home Minister appealed the citizens to use their mother tongue more so as to preserve its existence.

"A language stays alive only when the community of its speakers take pride in it, promote it, and encourage the young generation to use it. India has two official languages - Hindi and English, and 22 scheduled languages. The country does not have any national language, a fact which has been a subject of much debate since independence."

Earlier in the day, Shah, in a tweet, had asked people to use Hindi more to realise the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

"On the occasion of Hindi Day, I appeal to all citizens to use their mother tongue and Hindi more to realise the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel," Shah said in a tweet.&nbsp;

On the occasion of Hindi Diwas, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday stressed on the need to have a unifying language that becomes a mark of India`s identity in the world and keeps "foreign languages" from finding a place in the country.

On the occasion of Hindi Diwas, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday stressed on the need to have a unifying language that becomes a mark of India`s identity in the world and keeps "foreign languages" from finding a place in the country. "Though I believe that the diversity of languages and dialects is one of the biggest strengths of India, there is a need for our country to have one language, so that foreign languages don`t find a place. This is why our freedom fighters envisioned Hindi as `Raj bhasha`," Shah said in his address at a Hindi Diwas programme. Shah said that any nation that abandons its language cannot preserve its culture and consequently loses its existence. "On the occasion of Hindi Diwas, we should introspect. There are many countries in this world whose languages have become extinct. The country that abandons its language loses its existence too. The country that loses its language can`t preserve its culture," he said. "We need to understand that the richness of Indian languages cannot be compared with any foreign languages," he added. The Home Minister appealed the citizens to use their mother tongue more so as to preserve its existence. "A language stays alive only when the community of its speakers take pride in it, promote it, and encourage the young generation to use it. India has two official languages - Hindi and English, and 22 scheduled languages. The country does not have any national language, a fact which has been a subject of much debate since independence." Earlier in the day, Shah, in a tweet, had asked people to use Hindi more to realise the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. "On the occasion of Hindi Day, I appeal to all citizens to use their mother tongue and Hindi more to realise the dreams of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel," Shah said in a tweet.

Necessary to have a unifying language to keep 'foreign languages' from finding place in India: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday remembered late Arun Jaitley saying that the senior BJP leader, who passed away after a prolonged illness last month, had played a major role in his acquittal in "legal battle".

"He stood by my side firmy like a stone whenever I had to face difficult times in my life. He supported me on all fronts, be it related to the party, legal battle or something else. If I come out of that battle, it was because Arun ji's played a major role in it," Shah said at an event organised by the BJP to pay tributes to the departed leader.

Praising Jaitley for his friendly behaviour, Shah said, "One of his characteristics was establishing friendly relations with people from across the parties. He had mastered the art of making friends of below and over his age."

Shah also said that Jaitley, who died last month, played a major role in the formation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and ensured that the tax reform did not fall in a political trap.

"His demise is a major loss of the party, politics and the country itself," the Union Minister said.

BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda also remembered Jaitley as an "eloquent speaker, avid politician, and an advisor for everyone", adding that his demise was an "irreparable and personal loss".

Nadda continued, "Whenever I felt as if I were on the brink of (mental) collapse, he supported and encouraged me."

Speaking on the occasion, he said that Jaitley's demise had created a vacuum in the BJP and the Indian politics which could not be filled in the near future.

"Even opposition regarded him as a scholar and a visionary politician. The presence of all opposition party leaders here is a testament to his ability to work together with everyone," Nadda stated.

He said that Jaitley had been committed to public life and did not care about his career when he spent 19 months in jail during the emergency. "He influenced a large number of students to participate in Jai Prakash Narayan's movement. As students, we were influenced by his speeches and were ready to follow the path," Nadda said.

The 'Shradhanjali' programme was held in the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here. Jaitley's wife Sangita, daughter Sonali and son Rohan were present on the occasion.

Several diplomats and dignitaries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and opposition leader like NCP chief Sharad Pawar were in attendance.

Jaitley passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at the age of 66 in New Delhi on August 24.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday remembered late Arun Jaitley saying that the senior BJP leader, who passed away after a prolonged illness last month, had played a major role in his acquittal in "legal battle".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday remembered late Arun Jaitley saying that the senior BJP leader, who passed away after a prolonged illness last month, had played a major role in his acquittal in "legal battle". "He stood by my side firmy like a stone whenever I had to face difficult times in my life. He supported me on all fronts, be it related to the party, legal battle or something else. If I come out of that battle, it was because Arun ji's played a major role in it," Shah said at an event organised by the BJP to pay tributes to the departed leader. Praising Jaitley for his friendly behaviour, Shah said, "One of his characteristics was establishing friendly relations with people from across the parties. He had mastered the art of making friends of below and over his age." Shah also said that Jaitley, who died last month, played a major role in the formation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and ensured that the tax reform did not fall in a political trap. "His demise is a major loss of the party, politics and the country itself," the Union Minister said. BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda also remembered Jaitley as an "eloquent speaker, avid politician, and an advisor for everyone", adding that his demise was an "irreparable and personal loss". Nadda continued, "Whenever I felt as if I were on the brink of (mental) collapse, he supported and encouraged me." Speaking on the occasion, he said that Jaitley's demise had created a vacuum in the BJP and the Indian politics which could not be filled in the near future. "Even opposition regarded him as a scholar and a visionary politician. The presence of all opposition party leaders here is a testament to his ability to work together with everyone," Nadda stated. He said that Jaitley had been committed to public life and did not care about his career when he spent 19 months in jail during the emergency. "He influenced a large number of students to participate in Jai Prakash Narayan's movement. As students, we were influenced by his speeches and were ready to follow the path," Nadda said. The 'Shradhanjali' programme was held in the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here. Jaitley's wife Sangita, daughter Sonali and son Rohan were present on the occasion. Several diplomats and dignitaries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and opposition leader like NCP chief Sharad Pawar were in attendance. Jaitley passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at the age of 66 in New Delhi on August 24.

Arun Jaitley played major role in my acquittal in 'legal battle': Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday stressed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre will not bring any change in Article 371, which is a "special" provision and said that the people of northeast should not believe the opposition's propaganda in this regard.

Amit Shah: Centre not thinking of altering Article 371

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday lauded the government`s efforts to develop North East and said that the region will emerge as a substantial business hub.

"People of North-East blessed NEDA. That's why Modi Ji says North-East means is the new engine of India's growth. The region can become an engine of India's development story," he said while speaking at the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) meeting here.

"In the next 10 years, we will see that North East will emerge as important the region for trade and development," Shah said.

The Home Minister said that the North Eastern region is going to become a business hub of eastern India. "I can guarantee Delhi boys will come to jobs in Guwahati and Meghalaya. There are endless possibilities in the region," he added.

Shah said that the North East region is significant for the environment and the national security as well.

"North East is like India`s lung because 26 per cent of the country in this region is forest area, which serves to deliver oxygen to the country. The region is significant for the national security since it touches the boundaries of five nations," he said.

The Home Minister said that all northeastern states will have railway and airport connectivity by 2022.

Shah accused Congress of using divide and rule policy in the North East and stopping the development of the region.

"The whole region was involved in an internal conflict which was created by Congress. They stopped the development in the region. Nagaland is a part of India and they have right on India. The divide and rule policy of Congress made people of north-east feel alienated from India," he said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday lauded the government`s efforts to develop North East and said that the region will emerge as a substantial business hub.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday lauded the government`s efforts to develop North East and said that the region will emerge as a substantial business hub. "People of North-East blessed NEDA. That's why Modi Ji says North-East means is the new engine of India's growth. The region can become an engine of India's development story," he said while speaking at the North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) meeting here. "In the next 10 years, we will see that North East will emerge as important the region for trade and development," Shah said. The Home Minister said that the North Eastern region is going to become a business hub of eastern India. "I can guarantee Delhi boys will come to jobs in Guwahati and Meghalaya. There are endless possibilities in the region," he added. Shah said that the North East region is significant for the environment and the national security as well. "North East is like India`s lung because 26 per cent of the country in this region is forest area, which serves to deliver oxygen to the country. The region is significant for the national security since it touches the boundaries of five nations," he said. The Home Minister said that all northeastern states will have railway and airport connectivity by 2022. Shah accused Congress of using divide and rule policy in the North East and stopping the development of the region. "The whole region was involved in an internal conflict which was created by Congress. They stopped the development in the region. Nagaland is a part of India and they have right on India. The divide and rule policy of Congress made people of north-east feel alienated from India," he said.

North East will emerge as a substantial business hub: Union Home Minister Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that the Centre will not scrap Article 371 of the Constitution, which grants special provisions to the north-eastern states.

Addressing the 68th Plenary Session of the North Eastern Council here, he said, "Article 371 is not a temporary provision like Article 370 was. It is a special provision. We respect that and will not tamper with it."

He accused opposition parties of sending a wrong message to the people of the north-eastern states that Article 371 will be scrapped.

"It is unfortunate that the opposition claimed that the BJP government at the Centre will now scrap Article 371. It is pertinent to clarify this because a few people do not want peace in these states and want to create a divide," he said.

Last month, the central government had scrapped the Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The Centre also bifurcated the state into two Union territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that the Centre will not scrap Article 371 of the Constitution, which grants special provisions to the north-eastern states.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that the Centre will not scrap Article 371 of the Constitution, which grants special provisions to the north-eastern states. Addressing the 68th Plenary Session of the North Eastern Council here, he said, "Article 371 is not a temporary provision like Article 370 was. It is a special provision. We respect that and will not tamper with it." He accused opposition parties of sending a wrong message to the people of the north-eastern states that Article 371 will be scrapped. "It is unfortunate that the opposition claimed that the BJP government at the Centre will now scrap Article 371. It is pertinent to clarify this because a few people do not want peace in these states and want to create a divide," he said. Last month, the central government had scrapped the Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The Centre also bifurcated the state into two Union territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

We will not tamper with Article 371, says Union Home Minister Amit Shah

Amid uncertainty over Chandrayaan 2's Vikram lander which lost communication with the ground station, Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that ISRO's achievement with the spacecraft so far has made every Indian proud.

"ISRO's achievement with getting Chandrayaan-2 so far has made every Indian proud. India stands with our committed and hard-working scientists at @isro. My best wishes for future endeavours," he tweeted.

The communication with Vikram lander was lost moments before its planned landing on the south pole region of the Moon.

ISRO chairman K Sivan announced that communication with the lander was lost at 2.1 km from the lunar surface.

"Vikram lander descend was normal and as planned till 2.1 km. Subsequently, communication with Vikram lander was lost. Data is being analysed," he said.

In its last tweet at 1:49 am, ISRO was giving updates about the missions announced in the run-up to the soft landing of the Vikram lander.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in the ISRO headquarters Bengaluru to witness the historic moment, asked the scientists to not lose hope and be courageous.

"Don't lose hope. Be courageous. There are ups and downs in life. What you all have done is not a small thing. You have done a great service to the country, science and mankind. I am with you. I wish you all the best," the Prime Minister told the scientists.

Modi patted Sivan's back even as scientists were seen tensed as Vikram lander lost communication with the ground station.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Amid uncertainty over Chandrayaan 2's Vikram lander which lost communication with the ground station, Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that ISRO's achievement with the spacecraft so far has made every Indian proud.

Amid uncertainty over Chandrayaan 2's Vikram lander which lost communication with the ground station, Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that ISRO's achievement with the spacecraft so far has made every Indian proud. "ISRO's achievement with getting Chandrayaan-2 so far has made every Indian proud. India stands with our committed and hard-working scientists at @isro. My best wishes for future endeavours," he tweeted. The communication with Vikram lander was lost moments before its planned landing on the south pole region of the Moon. ISRO chairman K Sivan announced that communication with the lander was lost at 2.1 km from the lunar surface. "Vikram lander descend was normal and as planned till 2.1 km. Subsequently, communication with Vikram lander was lost. Data is being analysed," he said. In its last tweet at 1:49 am, ISRO was giving updates about the missions announced in the run-up to the soft landing of the Vikram lander. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in the ISRO headquarters Bengaluru to witness the historic moment, asked the scientists to not lose hope and be courageous. "Don't lose hope. Be courageous. There are ups and downs in life. What you all have done is not a small thing. You have done a great service to the country, science and mankind. I am with you. I wish you all the best," the Prime Minister told the scientists. Modi patted Sivan's back even as scientists were seen tensed as Vikram lander lost communication with the ground station.

Every Indian is proud: Amit Shah lauds ISRO scientists for Chandrayaan-2

Home Minister Amit Shah told a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir on Monday that repeal of 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will open multiple doors of progress and assured them that local bodies will get "enough" funds for development works. 
 
It was the first such meeting of a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir with Shah since the repeal of Article 370 and reorganisation of the state into two Union Territories. 
 
The meeting was also attended by Ministers of State for Home Nityanand Rai and G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Home Secretary AK Bhalla and All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Association Chairman Anil Sharma. It discussed the agenda of development of Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
Sources in the ministry said that Shah told the sarpanches that they should take responsibility of development works in their areas. He said local bodies will now get "enough" funds for development as was the case with other states. Shah said the repeal of Article 370 will be beneficial to the state and open more doors of development in the Valley. 
 
"Employment opportunities will come to your home and your future will be brighter," Shah told the group. The home minister also met a group of apple growers from Kashmir who apprised him of their problems. He assured to look into their issues. Meer Junaid, a sarpanch who was present at the meeting, told ANI that Shah assured them to give statehood to Jammu and Kashmir once normalcy is returned. 
 
"The Home Minister presented a roadmap for the development of Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

Home Minister Amit Shah told a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir on Monday that repeal of 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will open multiple doors of progress and assured them that local bodies will get "enough" funds for development works.

Home Minister Amit Shah told a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir on Monday that repeal of 370 in Jammu and Kashmir will open multiple doors of progress and assured them that local bodies will get "enough" funds for development works. It was the first such meeting of a citizens group from Jammu and Kashmir with Shah since the repeal of Article 370 and reorganisation of the state into two Union Territories. The meeting was also attended by Ministers of State for Home Nityanand Rai and G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Home Secretary AK Bhalla and All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Association Chairman Anil Sharma. It discussed the agenda of development of Jammu and Kashmir. Sources in the ministry said that Shah told the sarpanches that they should take responsibility of development works in their areas. He said local bodies will now get "enough" funds for development as was the case with other states. Shah said the repeal of Article 370 will be beneficial to the state and open more doors of development in the Valley. "Employment opportunities will come to your home and your future will be brighter," Shah told the group. The home minister also met a group of apple growers from Kashmir who apprised him of their problems. He assured to look into their issues. Meer Junaid, a sarpanch who was present at the meeting, told ANI that Shah assured them to give statehood to Jammu and Kashmir once normalcy is returned. "The Home Minister presented a roadmap for the development of Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

Jammu and Kashmir citizens group meets Amit Shah, assured of enough development funds

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