Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday stated that the banking system needs further strengthening, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Jaitley further added that although GST slowed down growth rate for two quarters, it rose after that.&nbsp;

Critics and cynics say GST slowed down economic growth, but it was a smoothly-implemented, monumental reform, the minister stated.

He also said that NPAs need to be minimised and steps taken in that regard are bearing fruits. &nbsp;

Jaitley's remarks follow former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan comments wherein he blamed the indirect taxation reform for derailing India's growth story.

"You will always have critics and cynics who will come up and say it (GST) slowed down India's growth," Jaitley said, speaking at state-run Union Bank of India's 100th-anniversary celebrations event in Mumbai.

Jaitley said that the growth increased to 7 per cent, then to 7.7 per cent and went up till 8.2 per cent last quarter and specifically pointed out that this is much higher than the 5-6 per cent expansion achieved between 2012-14.

The Goods and Services Tax (GST), India's biggest tax reform since independence which came into force on July 1, 2017, had "disruptionist" impact on economic growth only for two quarters, he said.

Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan on Saturday launched an attack on the Central government, calling demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as the two major headwinds that held back India's economic growth last year.

Rajan added that the current seven per cent growth rate is not enough to meet the country's needs.

"The two successive shocks of demonetisation and the GST had a serious impact on growth in India. Growth has fallen off interestingly at a time when growth in the global economy has been peaking up," he said delivering the second Bhattacharya Lectureship on the Future of India.

"The reality is that seven is not enough for the kind of people coming into the labour market and we need jobs for them, So, we need more and cannot be satisfied at this level," he said.&nbsp;

"What happened in 2017 is that even as the world picked up, India went down. That reflects the fact that these blows (demonetisation and GST) have really really been hard blows...Because of these headwinds we have been held back," news agency PTI quoted Rajan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday stated that the banking system needs further strengthening, news agency PTI reported. Jaitley further added that although GST slowed down growth rate for two quarters, it rose after that.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday stated that the banking system needs further strengthening, news agency PTI reported. Jaitley further added that although GST slowed down growth rate for two quarters, it rose after that. Critics and cynics say GST slowed down economic growth, but it was a smoothly-implemented, monumental reform, the minister stated. He also said that NPAs need to be minimised and steps taken in that regard are bearing fruits. Jaitley's remarks follow former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan comments wherein he blamed the indirect taxation reform for derailing India's growth story. "You will always have critics and cynics who will come up and say it (GST) slowed down India's growth," Jaitley said, speaking at state-run Union Bank of India's 100th-anniversary celebrations event in Mumbai. Jaitley said that the growth increased to 7 per cent, then to 7.7 per cent and went up till 8.2 per cent last quarter and specifically pointed out that this is much higher than the 5-6 per cent expansion achieved between 2012-14. The Goods and Services Tax (GST), India's biggest tax reform since independence which came into force on July 1, 2017, had "disruptionist" impact on economic growth only for two quarters, he said. Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan on Saturday launched an attack on the Central government, calling demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as the two major headwinds that held back India's economic growth last year. Rajan added that the current seven per cent growth rate is not enough to meet the country's needs. "The two successive shocks of demonetisation and the GST had a serious impact on growth in India. Growth has fallen off interestingly at a time when growth in the global economy has been peaking up," he said delivering the second Bhattacharya Lectureship on the Future of India. "The reality is that seven is not enough for the kind of people coming into the labour market and we need jobs for them, So, we need more and cannot be satisfied at this level," he said. "What happened in 2017 is that even as the world picked up, India went down. That reflects the fact that these blows (demonetisation and GST) have really really been hard blows...Because of these headwinds we have been held back," news agency PTI quoted Rajan. (With inputs from PTI)

GST is a 'monumental reform', hit growth for only 2 quarters: Jaitley

Former Finance Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday attacked PM Modi's government stating that the regime is trying "to 'capture' RBI ahead of Lok Sabha poll, this will be catastrophic."

He alleged that the government has packed the central bank's board with handpicked nominees, and was making every attempt to push through its proposals at the RBI board meeting on November 19.

"The government stares at a fiscal deficit crisis... The government wants to step up the expenditure in an election year. Finding all avenues closed, in desperation, the government has demanded Rs 1 lakh crore from the reserves of RBI," the former finance minister said at a press conference.

If RBI Governor Urjit Patel stands his ground, the Centre was planning to issue a direction under Section 7 of the RBI Act, 1934, directing the apex bank to transfer Rs 1 lakh crore to the government's account, he claimed.

"The day of reckoning is November 19 when the RBI board is scheduled to meet. The government has packed the RBI board with its handpicked nominees and is making every attempt to ram through its proposal at the meeting," Chidambaram said.

"If the RBI either defies the government or RBI governor resigns, in either event, the consequence will be catastrophic," he added.

Chidambaram also added that state-wise alliances are going to benefit the Congress, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"State-wise alliances will benefit Congress, it is the best way to defeat BJP," he told media.&nbsp;

Chidambaram's comments came shortly after Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley claimed that confiscating money was not the aim of launching demonetisation, adding that the move led to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/demonetisation-led-to-formalisation-of-economy-expanded-tax-base-arun-jaitley-176171">formalisation of the economy and expanded tax base</a>.&nbsp;

The reactions came on the second anniversary of the demonetisation move that the Modi government undertook in the year 2016.&nbsp;

The demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in November 2016, Jaitley said, had resulted in more formalisation (of the economy), more revenue, more resources for the poor, better infrastructure, and a better quality of life for our citizens, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The government had on November 8, 2016, announced a ban on old 500 and 1000 rupee notes, to curb black money in the system.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Former Finance Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday attacked PM Modi's government stating that the regime is trying "to 'capture' RBI ahead of Lok Sabha poll, this will be catastrophic.

Former Finance Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday attacked PM Modi's government stating that the regime is trying "to 'capture' RBI ahead of Lok Sabha poll, this will be catastrophic." He alleged that the government has packed the central bank's board with handpicked nominees, and was making every attempt to push through its proposals at the RBI board meeting on November 19. "The government stares at a fiscal deficit crisis... The government wants to step up the expenditure in an election year. Finding all avenues closed, in desperation, the government has demanded Rs 1 lakh crore from the reserves of RBI," the former finance minister said at a press conference. If RBI Governor Urjit Patel stands his ground, the Centre was planning to issue a direction under Section 7 of the RBI Act, 1934, directing the apex bank to transfer Rs 1 lakh crore to the government's account, he claimed. "The day of reckoning is November 19 when the RBI board is scheduled to meet. The government has packed the RBI board with its handpicked nominees and is making every attempt to ram through its proposal at the meeting," Chidambaram said. "If the RBI either defies the government or RBI governor resigns, in either event, the consequence will be catastrophic," he added. Chidambaram also added that state-wise alliances are going to benefit the Congress, news agency ANI reported. "State-wise alliances will benefit Congress, it is the best way to defeat BJP," he told media. Chidambaram's comments came shortly after Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley claimed that confiscating money was not the aim of launching demonetisation, adding that the move led to the formalisation of the economy and expanded tax base. The reactions came on the second anniversary of the demonetisation move that the Modi government undertook in the year 2016. The demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in November 2016, Jaitley said, had resulted in more formalisation (of the economy), more revenue, more resources for the poor, better infrastructure, and a better quality of life for our citizens, news agency PTI reported. The government had on November 8, 2016, announced a ban on old 500 and 1000 rupee notes, to curb black money in the system. (With inputs from agencies)

Government trying to capture RBI ahead of Lok Sabha polls: P Chidambaram

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday said demonetisation resulted in formalisation of economy and increased tax base, prompting the government to earmark more resources for the poor and infrastructure development.

In a Facebook post on the second anniversary of Demonetisation, Jaitley said in first four years of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, the number of income tax returns filers has gone up to 6.86 crore from 3.8 crore in May 2014.

By the time the first five years of this government are over, we will be close to doubling the assessee base, he said in the post titled Impact Of Demonetisation".

The demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in November 2016, the minister said, had resulted in more formalisation (of economy), more revenue, more resources for the poor, better infrastructure, and a better quality of life for our citizens.

He further said with the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST), it is now becoming increasingly difficult to evade the tax system and the indirect tax to gross domestic product (GDP) ratio has gone up to 5.4 per cent post-GST, from 4.4 per cent in 2014-15.

Terming the criticism, that almost the entire cash money got deposited in the banks post demonetisation, as ill-informed, Jaitley said confiscation of currency was not an objective of demonetisation.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="encrypted-media" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="457" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fnotes%2Farun-jaitley%2Fimpact-of-demonetisation%2F906015826253633%2F&amp;width=500" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" width="500"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Getting it into the formal economy and making the holders pay tax was the broader objective. The system required to be shaken in order to make India move from cash to digital transactions. This would obviously have an impact on higher tax revenue and a higher tax base, Jaitley said.

The government had on November 8, 2016, announced ban on old 500 and 1000 rupee notes, to curb black money in the system.

Of the Rs 15.41 lakh crore worth Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes in circulation on November 8, 2016, 99.3 per cent or notes worth Rs 15.31 lakh crore have returned to the banking system.

This means, just Rs 10,720 crore of the junked currency did not return to the banking system.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh's Press Statement on two years of Demonetisation &amp; the devastating impact it had &amp; continues to have on the Indian economy. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DestructionByDemonetisation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DestructionByDemonetisation</a> <a href="https://t.co/4d4JE8bdhY">pic.twitter.com/4d4JE8bdhY</a>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1060401595718918144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

After the note ban, old junked notes, called specified bank notes (SBNs), were allowed to be deposited in banks with unusual deposits coming under income tax scrutiny.

Jaitley said demonetisation compelled holders of cash to deposit the same in the banks.

The enormity of cash deposited and identified with the owner resulted in suspected 17.42 lakh account holders from whom the response has been received online through non-invasive method, he said.

The violators faced punitive actions. Larger deposits in banks improved lending capacity for the banks. A lot of this money was diverted to mutual funds for further investments. It became a part of the formal system, Jaitley added.

He said the share of indigenously developed payment system of unified payments interface (UPI) and RuPay card have reached 65 per cent of the payments done through debit and credit cards.

Jaitley said in 2017-18, the tax returns filed reached 6.86 crore, an increase of 25 per cent over the previous year.

This year, as on October 31, 2018, already 5.99 crore returns have been filed - which is an increase of 54.33 per cent compared to the previous year till this date.

As many as 86.35 lakh new filers were added this year.

Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said demonetisation and GST reflect long-term vision of the government and its ability to undertake massive structural reforms.

Tax filers under both direct and indirect taxes are close to getting doubled. Digital payments have risen sharply and become commonplace. Fake notes are out,&nbsp;Garg tweeted.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday said demonetisation resulted in formalisation of economy and increased tax base, prompting the government to earmark more resources for the poor and infrastructure development.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday said demonetisation resulted in formalisation of economy and increased tax base, prompting the government to earmark more resources for the poor and infrastructure development. In a Facebook post on the second anniversary of Demonetisation, Jaitley said in first four years of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, the number of income tax returns filers has gone up to 6.86 crore from 3.8 crore in May 2014. By the time the first five years of this government are over, we will be close to doubling the assessee base, he said in the post titled Impact Of Demonetisation". The demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in November 2016, the minister said, had resulted in more formalisation (of economy), more revenue, more resources for the poor, better infrastructure, and a better quality of life for our citizens. He further said with the implementation of the goods and services tax (GST), it is now becoming increasingly difficult to evade the tax system and the indirect tax to gross domestic product (GDP) ratio has gone up to 5.4 per cent post-GST, from 4.4 per cent in 2014-15. Terming the criticism, that almost the entire cash money got deposited in the banks post demonetisation, as ill-informed, Jaitley said confiscation of currency was not an objective of demonetisation. × Getting it into the formal economy and making the holders pay tax was the broader objective. The system required to be shaken in order to make India move from cash to digital transactions. This would obviously have an impact on higher tax revenue and a higher tax base, Jaitley said. The government had on November 8, 2016, announced ban on old 500 and 1000 rupee notes, to curb black money in the system. Of the Rs 15.41 lakh crore worth Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes in circulation on November 8, 2016, 99.3 per cent or notes worth Rs 15.31 lakh crore have returned to the banking system. This means, just Rs 10,720 crore of the junked currency did not return to the banking system. Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh's Press Statement on two years of Demonetisation & the devastating impact it had & continues to have on the Indian economy. #DestructionByDemonetisation pic.twitter.com/4d4JE8bdhY — Congress (@INCIndia) November 8, 2018 × After the note ban, old junked notes, called specified bank notes (SBNs), were allowed to be deposited in banks with unusual deposits coming under income tax scrutiny. Jaitley said demonetisation compelled holders of cash to deposit the same in the banks. The enormity of cash deposited and identified with the owner resulted in suspected 17.42 lakh account holders from whom the response has been received online through non-invasive method, he said. The violators faced punitive actions. Larger deposits in banks improved lending capacity for the banks. A lot of this money was diverted to mutual funds for further investments. It became a part of the formal system, Jaitley added. He said the share of indigenously developed payment system of unified payments interface (UPI) and RuPay card have reached 65 per cent of the payments done through debit and credit cards. Jaitley said in 2017-18, the tax returns filed reached 6.86 crore, an increase of 25 per cent over the previous year. This year, as on October 31, 2018, already 5.99 crore returns have been filed - which is an increase of 54.33 per cent compared to the previous year till this date. As many as 86.35 lakh new filers were added this year. Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg said demonetisation and GST reflect long-term vision of the government and its ability to undertake massive structural reforms. Tax filers under both direct and indirect taxes are close to getting doubled. Digital payments have risen sharply and become commonplace. Fake notes are out, Garg tweeted.

Demonetisation led to formalisation of economy, expanded tax base: Arun Jaitley

Attacking the Congress, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday hailed India’s 23 places jump in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings and said the country had come a long way from the UPA era when it was the most difficult country to do business with.

In a Facebook post, he said despite inheriting the legacy of 142nd position in the coveted rankings, the Narendra Modi-led government had undertaken a series of reforms achieving a 65-point improvement to reach the 77th rank during its first four years. He said India would further improve its ranking by focusing on certain specific areas — including ‘starting a business’, ‘resolving insolvency’, ‘payment of taxes’ and ‘enforcement of contracts’ — and would have to make a special effort to achieve the Prime Minister’s target of breaking into the top-50 countries.

His remarks came a day after the World Bank’s latest Doing Business Report 2019 showed that various measures undertaken by the government had helped India improve its rank in six out of the ten parameters, helping it jump 23 places from its rank of 100 in the previous year.

The country had entered the top 100 last year with a bigger jump of 30 places. “India, during the ten years of the UPA, witnessed a high level of corruption, policy paralysis and abandonment of all reforms. UPA-II, in its five-year tenure, witnessed a global ranking 134, 132, 132, 134 and finally 142.

“This was UPA’s miserable track record. India was the most difficult to do business with. Investors were wary of coming to India. On the contrary, there was a reverse flight of capital from India by the investors,” Jaitley wrote. He said that Modi’s call in 2014 to appear among the first 50 nations in the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ seemed to be a tall promise since India had to move up 92 positions and not many were optimistic and regarded it as “an unachievable goal”.

“Changes required legislation, regulation, policy decisions and administrative reforms. They involved technical innovations. Moving up 92 positions is a daunting task,” he said. Jaitley added that the Modi government started working on each of the 10 criteria that are considered by the World Bank and moved up in the first two years to 130 before making a major jump of 30 positions to reach position 100 in the third year.

“And in the fourth year, we have moved to a position no. 77. This is a 65 point improvement in the first four years. We are still 27 positions away from the target. The impossible now looks plausible,” he wrote.

Attacking the Congress, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday hailed India’s 23 places jump in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings and said the country had come a long way from the UPA era when it was the most difficult country to do business with.

Attacking the Congress, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday hailed India’s 23 places jump in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business rankings and said the country had come a long way from the UPA era when it was the most difficult country to do business with. In a Facebook post, he said despite inheriting the legacy of 142nd position in the coveted rankings, the Narendra Modi-led government had undertaken a series of reforms achieving a 65-point improvement to reach the 77th rank during its first four years. He said India would further improve its ranking by focusing on certain specific areas — including ‘starting a business’, ‘resolving insolvency’, ‘payment of taxes’ and ‘enforcement of contracts’ — and would have to make a special effort to achieve the Prime Minister’s target of breaking into the top-50 countries. His remarks came a day after the World Bank’s latest Doing Business Report 2019 showed that various measures undertaken by the government had helped India improve its rank in six out of the ten parameters, helping it jump 23 places from its rank of 100 in the previous year. The country had entered the top 100 last year with a bigger jump of 30 places. “India, during the ten years of the UPA, witnessed a high level of corruption, policy paralysis and abandonment of all reforms. UPA-II, in its five-year tenure, witnessed a global ranking 134, 132, 132, 134 and finally 142. “This was UPA’s miserable track record. India was the most difficult to do business with. Investors were wary of coming to India. On the contrary, there was a reverse flight of capital from India by the investors,” Jaitley wrote. He said that Modi’s call in 2014 to appear among the first 50 nations in the ‘Ease of Doing Business’ seemed to be a tall promise since India had to move up 92 positions and not many were optimistic and regarded it as “an unachievable goal”. “Changes required legislation, regulation, policy decisions and administrative reforms. They involved technical innovations. Moving up 92 positions is a daunting task,” he said. Jaitley added that the Modi government started working on each of the 10 criteria that are considered by the World Bank and moved up in the first two years to 130 before making a major jump of 30 positions to reach position 100 in the third year. “And in the fourth year, we have moved to a position no. 77. This is a 65 point improvement in the first four years. We are still 27 positions away from the target. The impossible now looks plausible,” he wrote.

India under UPA most difficult to do business with, says Arun Jaitley

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said the people of Kashmir ought to stand with the government and not with the separatists in the fight against terrorism.

"I think it is absolutely essential for all of us ...That in this battle, we need the Kashmiri people on our side. It's a battle for sovereignty, it's a battle against separatists and terrorists and the key is also held by the people," he said.

"And therefore our approach has to be guided by the fact that those people are on our side, and not with the separatists," he said while delivering the first Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture here.

He regretted that at a time when the country is dealing with troubles being fomented from across the border, some local groups have joined them and the worst sufferers are Kashmiri people themselves.

"How do we resolve the situation&nbsp;Governments have said that we are ready for the most logical option. We are willing to talk to people, we are willing to even interact and involve regional mainstream parties into it," he said.

Jaitley also said that mainstream regional parties, which speak one language in Srinagar and another in Delhi, must have the courage to face the situation.

They need to create an alternative set of discourse in the Valley for separatists, he said adding "Unfortunately they duck that responsibility. And therefore this is a battle which India has to win and I have no doubt in mind, we will succeed in it at the end of the day because the politics of India has to send a clear message that separatism will never be accepted by India and its mainstream".

He said that every policy and position that the government takes have to be guided by one of the yardsticks that "the people of Kashmir have to be gradually brought on this side and that will be the real test of when we succeed".

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said the people of Kashmir ought to stand with the government and not with the separatists in the fight against terrorism.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said the people of Kashmir ought to stand with the government and not with the separatists in the fight against terrorism. "I think it is absolutely essential for all of us ...That in this battle, we need the Kashmiri people on our side. It's a battle for sovereignty, it's a battle against separatists and terrorists and the key is also held by the people," he said. "And therefore our approach has to be guided by the fact that those people are on our side, and not with the separatists," he said while delivering the first Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture here. He regretted that at a time when the country is dealing with troubles being fomented from across the border, some local groups have joined them and the worst sufferers are Kashmiri people themselves. "How do we resolve the situation Governments have said that we are ready for the most logical option. We are willing to talk to people, we are willing to even interact and involve regional mainstream parties into it," he said. Jaitley also said that mainstream regional parties, which speak one language in Srinagar and another in Delhi, must have the courage to face the situation. They need to create an alternative set of discourse in the Valley for separatists, he said adding "Unfortunately they duck that responsibility. And therefore this is a battle which India has to win and I have no doubt in mind, we will succeed in it at the end of the day because the politics of India has to send a clear message that separatism will never be accepted by India and its mainstream". He said that every policy and position that the government takes have to be guided by one of the yardsticks that "the people of Kashmir have to be gradually brought on this side and that will be the real test of when we succeed".

Kashmiri people should stand with Government, not with separatists in fight against terrorism: Arun Jaitley

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-boss-and-deputy-removed-nageswar-rao-takes-interim-charge-173104">removing CBI Director Alok Verma</a> in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam".

He also alleged that the prime minister "broke the law" and "bypassed" the Chief Justice of India and the Leader of Opposition, who were part of the panel that selected the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chief.

There was no immediate reaction from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on the allegations.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has, however, dismissed as "rubbish" the allegations that Verma was removed because he wanted to look into the Rafale fighter jet deal.&nbsp;

He said the government's decision to remove Verma and CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana was based on the Central Vigilance Commission's (CVC) recommendations.

Gandhi also alleged that Verma was forcibly sent on leave as he was collecting documents relating to the Rafale "scam".

Verma and Asthana have been "divested of all powers" amid an ongoing spat between them.

"PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI and LOP.

"Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It," Gandhi said in a tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. 
 
Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI &amp; LOP. 
 
Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1055060503612002304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier, he tweeted, "CBI Chief Alok Verma was collecting documents relating to the Rafale scam. He was forcibly sent on leave."

"The Prime Minister's message is very clear that whoever comes near Rafale (issue) will be removed, wiped out," the Congress chief charged.

The country and the Constitution were in danger, he claimed.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
CBI चीफ आलोक वर्मा राफेल घोटाले के कागजात इकट्ठा कर रहे थे। उन्हें जबरदस्ती छुट्टी पर भेज दिया गया। 
 
प्रधानमंत्री का मैसेज एकदम साफ है जो भी राफेल के इर्द गिर्द आएगा- हटा दिया जाएगा, मिटा दिया जाएगा। 
 
देश और संविधान खतरे में हैं।
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1055009856413937665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Addressing a poll rally at Jhalawar in Rajasthan, Gandhi targeted the prime minister on the CBI row, alleging that Verma was removed because the agency was raising questions over the Rafale fighter jet deal.

"The CBI director was removed last night because the agency was raising questions over Rafale," Gandhi alleged.

The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the Rafale deal. 
The government has vehemently rejected all allegations.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing CBI Director Alok Verma in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam".

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of removing CBI Director Alok Verma in a bid to stop him from investigating the Rafale "scam". He also alleged that the prime minister "broke the law" and "bypassed" the Chief Justice of India and the Leader of Opposition, who were part of the panel that selected the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chief. There was no immediate reaction from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on the allegations. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has, however, dismissed as "rubbish" the allegations that Verma was removed because he wanted to look into the Rafale fighter jet deal. He said the government's decision to remove Verma and CBI Special Director Rakesh Asthana was based on the Central Vigilance Commission's (CVC) recommendations. Gandhi also alleged that Verma was forcibly sent on leave as he was collecting documents relating to the Rafale "scam". Verma and Asthana have been "divested of all powers" amid an ongoing spat between them. "PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI and LOP. "Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It," Gandhi said in a tweet. PM removed the CBI Director to stop him from investigating Rafale. Mr 56 broke the law when he bypassed CJI & LOP. Mr Modi, Rafale is a deadly aircraft with a superb radar. You can run, but you can't hide from It. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 24, 2018 × Earlier, he tweeted, "CBI Chief Alok Verma was collecting documents relating to the Rafale scam. He was forcibly sent on leave." "The Prime Minister's message is very clear that whoever comes near Rafale (issue) will be removed, wiped out," the Congress chief charged. The country and the Constitution were in danger, he claimed. CBI चीफ आलोक वर्मा राफेल घोटाले के कागजात इकट्ठा कर रहे थे। उन्हें जबरदस्ती छुट्टी पर भेज दिया गया। प्रधानमंत्री का मैसेज एकदम साफ है जो भी राफेल के इर्द गिर्द आएगा- हटा दिया जाएगा, मिटा दिया जाएगा। देश और संविधान खतरे में हैं। — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 24, 2018 × Addressing a poll rally at Jhalawar in Rajasthan, Gandhi targeted the prime minister on the CBI row, alleging that Verma was removed because the agency was raising questions over the Rafale fighter jet deal. "The CBI director was removed last night because the agency was raising questions over Rafale," Gandhi alleged. The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the Rafale deal. The government has vehemently rejected all allegations.

Alok Verma was collecting documents related to Rafale 'scam': Rahul Gandhi 

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday said the move of sending <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-boss-and-deputy-removed-nageswar-rao-takes-interim-charge-173104">CBI chief and deputy on leave </a>was taken to maintain the investigative agency's institutional integrity and credibility.

"CBI is India's premier investigation agency and hence the maintenance of its institutional integrity is essential. This is important not only for the scandals being probed in India, but also to maintain the credible image of the agency globally. Unfortunately, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-cbi-chief-alok-verma-moves-supreme-court-challenging-govts-leave-order-173134">top two officers of CBI</a> have alleged bribery cases against each other," Jaitley said.

On midnight order of the government, Jaitley said, 'The CVC met last evening. If the government acts fast, it is said why the hurry and if it is slow, it is termed as policy paralysis. The CVCs recommendation and the government's action is intended to restore the institutional integrity and credibility of CBI'.

Calling the battle in CBI as an "extraordinary," Jaitley said, "It is important that the fairness of our investigation agency is maintained."

"Regarding, the charge the three opposition parties have made, I regard this charge as a rubbish. The fact that the 3 opposition parties are saying, that we know what the agency was going to do next, itself casts a serious doubt on the fairness process," said Union finance minister Arun Jaitley.

The Opposition has come down heavily on the Modi government for Verma’s removal, with the Congress dubbing it the “last nail” in the agency’s independence and the CPI(M) calling it illegal.

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday said the move of sending CBI chief and deputy on leave was taken to maintain the investigative agency's institutional integrity and credibility.

Union finance minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday said the move of sending CBI chief and deputy on leave was taken to maintain the investigative agency's institutional integrity and credibility. "CBI is India's premier investigation agency and hence the maintenance of its institutional integrity is essential. This is important not only for the scandals being probed in India, but also to maintain the credible image of the agency globally. Unfortunately, the top two officers of CBI have alleged bribery cases against each other," Jaitley said. On midnight order of the government, Jaitley said, 'The CVC met last evening. If the government acts fast, it is said why the hurry and if it is slow, it is termed as policy paralysis. The CVCs recommendation and the government's action is intended to restore the institutional integrity and credibility of CBI'. Calling the battle in CBI as an "extraordinary," Jaitley said, "It is important that the fairness of our investigation agency is maintained." "Regarding, the charge the three opposition parties have made, I regard this charge as a rubbish. The fact that the 3 opposition parties are saying, that we know what the agency was going to do next, itself casts a serious doubt on the fairness process," said Union finance minister Arun Jaitley. The Opposition has come down heavily on the Modi government for Verma’s removal, with the Congress dubbing it the “last nail” in the agency’s independence and the CPI(M) calling it illegal.

Government action intended to restore credibility of CBI: Arun Jaitley

Congress President Rahul Gandhi alleged Monday that Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's daughter was on Mehul Choksi's "payroll", which is why Jaitley "allowed him to flee".&nbsp;

Gandhi even tweeted the ICICI bank account number Jaitley's daughter is supposed to have received the money from. And he called for Jaitley to resign.&nbsp;

"Arun Jaitlie’s daughter was on the payroll of thief Mehul Choksi. Meanwhile her FM daddy sat on his file &amp; allowed him to flee," Gandhi tweeted. (He deliberately misspelled Jaitley's name as Jaitlie.) &nbsp;

"She received money from ICICI a/c no: 12170500316," Gandhi added.&nbsp;

And he hashtagged his tweet "#ArunJaitlieMustResign".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Arun Jaitlie’s daughter was on the payroll of thief Mehul Choksi. Meanwhile her FM daddy sat on his file &amp; allowed him to flee. 
 
She received money from ICICI&nbsp;a/c no: 12170500316 
 
It’s sad that media has blacked out this story. The people of India won’t. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArunJaitlieMustResign?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArunJaitlieMustResign</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1054343261425491968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Choksi is one of the prime accused in the over Rs 13,000 crore PNB scam, the country's largest bank scam.&nbsp;

Gandhi repeated his allegation at a farmers' rally in Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

"You must have heard about Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, who had stolen Rs 35,000 crore of the country. Choksi deposited lakhs of rupees in the bank account of FM Arun Jaitleys daughter," PTI quoted Gandhi as saying.&nbsp;

And he repeated it again at Raipur airport:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Raipur says, "Mehul Choksi deposited money in Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's daughter's bank account." <a href="https://t.co/6pXSxyDKzz">pic.twitter.com/6pXSxyDKzz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1054376901656145920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

PTI reported that at the rally in Chhattisgarh, Gandhi also targeted Modi over the Rafale deal, saying the prime minister snatched a contract away from the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and gave it to the Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Defence which has never made an aeroplane.

Gandhi added that the UPA government had agreed to buy 126 Rafales at around Rs 526 crore a piece. "But after becoming prime minister, Narendra Modi ji goes to France along with Anil Ambani and purchased each Rafale jets at Rs 1,600 crore per piece," he said.

Gandhi added that under the UPA agreement, Bengaluru-based HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) was to manufacture the fighter jets which would have ensured technology transfer and jobs to local youths.

"But Modi ji himself snatched the contract from HAL and allotted it to Anil Ambani's company which was newly-formed and had no experience in manufacturing aeroplanes. Ambani would not have even made a plane of paper," Gandhi said.&nbsp;

Ambani has earlier rejected Gandhi's allegations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Congress President Rahul Gandhi alleged Monday that Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's daughter was on Mehul Choksi's "payroll", which is why Jaitley "allowed him to flee".

Congress President Rahul Gandhi alleged Monday that Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's daughter was on Mehul Choksi's "payroll", which is why Jaitley "allowed him to flee". Gandhi even tweeted the ICICI bank account number Jaitley's daughter is supposed to have received the money from. And he called for Jaitley to resign. "Arun Jaitlie’s daughter was on the payroll of thief Mehul Choksi. Meanwhile her FM daddy sat on his file & allowed him to flee," Gandhi tweeted. (He deliberately misspelled Jaitley's name as Jaitlie.) "She received money from ICICI a/c no: 12170500316," Gandhi added. And he hashtagged his tweet "#ArunJaitlieMustResign". Arun Jaitlie’s daughter was on the payroll of thief Mehul Choksi. Meanwhile her FM daddy sat on his file & allowed him to flee. She received money from ICICI a/c no: 12170500316 It’s sad that media has blacked out this story. The people of India won’t. #ArunJaitlieMustResign — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) October 22, 2018 × Choksi is one of the prime accused in the over Rs 13,000 crore PNB scam, the country's largest bank scam. Gandhi repeated his allegation at a farmers' rally in Chhattisgarh. "You must have heard about Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi, who had stolen Rs 35,000 crore of the country. Choksi deposited lakhs of rupees in the bank account of FM Arun Jaitleys daughter," PTI quoted Gandhi as saying. And he repeated it again at Raipur airport: #WATCH Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Raipur says, "Mehul Choksi deposited money in Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's daughter's bank account." pic.twitter.com/6pXSxyDKzz — ANI (@ANI) October 22, 2018 × PTI reported that at the rally in Chhattisgarh, Gandhi also targeted Modi over the Rafale deal, saying the prime minister snatched a contract away from the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and gave it to the Anil Ambani-owned Reliance Defence which has never made an aeroplane. Gandhi added that the UPA government had agreed to buy 126 Rafales at around Rs 526 crore a piece. "But after becoming prime minister, Narendra Modi ji goes to France along with Anil Ambani and purchased each Rafale jets at Rs 1,600 crore per piece," he said. Gandhi added that under the UPA agreement, Bengaluru-based HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) was to manufacture the fighter jets which would have ensured technology transfer and jobs to local youths. "But Modi ji himself snatched the contract from HAL and allotted it to Anil Ambani's company which was newly-formed and had no experience in manufacturing aeroplanes. Ambani would not have even made a plane of paper," Gandhi said. Ambani has earlier rejected Gandhi's allegations. (With inputs from PTI)

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's daughter was on Mehul Choksi's 'payroll': Rahul Gandhi

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said India needs a strong and decisive leadership at the Centre to continue its high growth path and take swift decisions.

Outlining the challenges for India, Jaitley said being a net buyer of oil, a rise in global crude prices adversely impacts the country and hence the economy has to be resilient to deal with it.

"If this path of high growth trajectory is to continue...If this higher growth, higher revenues and higher resources have to continue, better infrastructure objective has to be achieved, India needs a strong and decisive leadership at the Centre.&nbsp;

"A weak leadership, within days of a crisis, could not have handled IL&amp;FS the way the present government did, and therefore a crisis in the making was handled with swiftness," Jaitley said in his address to the AGM of industry chamber Assocham.

Debt-ridden IL&amp;FS and its group companies have defaulted on loan repayments, following which the government superseded its Board by appointing eminent banker Uday Kotak as its Chairman.

Talking about the political challenges facing the country, Jaitley said these are thrown up by unstable coalition and aspiring politicians, who want to acquire the top place.

"Therefore, today what India needs is not individuals with lack of understanding of policies, lack of understanding of directions or inherently unstable coalition, but a government and leadership with absolute clarity about the direction so that this unique position which IMF refers to as a sweet spot in the world, this sweet spot we continue to occupy for the next two decades," he said.

Jaitley said if India continues on a high growth path, then the country can get rid of poverty and can become a developed country.

"You need a decisive government, you need a government which has a coherent policy and is absolutely clear in the direction you have to move, and you need a government which is not dependent on those who would try to pull the government down by their strategies," Jaitley said in his video conference address.

The Indian economy grew at 8.2 per cent in the April-June quarter of current fiscal. It grew at 6.7 per cent in 2017-18 fiscal.&nbsp;

Stating that domestic policies of certain countries have spillover effects on India, Jaitley hoped that such effects will not be everlasting and are transient in character.

"As a fast-growing economy we have the capacity to face these challenges," he said.&nbsp;

Jaitley said global oil prices have risen on account of "artificial shortages" and it has adversely impacted India. India imports 83 per cent of its oil needs.

"Therefore we have to face that challenge by making our economy so resilient itself that we have the capacity to bear that challenge," he added.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said India needs a strong and decisive leadership at the Centre to continue its high growth path and take swift decisions. Outlining the challenges for India, Jaitley said being a net buyer of oil, a rise in global crude prices adversely impacts the country and hence the economy has to be resilient to deal with it.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said India needs a strong and decisive leadership at the Centre to continue its high growth path and take swift decisions. Outlining the challenges for India, Jaitley said being a net buyer of oil, a rise in global crude prices adversely impacts the country and hence the economy has to be resilient to deal with it. "If this path of high growth trajectory is to continue...If this higher growth, higher revenues and higher resources have to continue, better infrastructure objective has to be achieved, India needs a strong and decisive leadership at the Centre. "A weak leadership, within days of a crisis, could not have handled IL&FS the way the present government did, and therefore a crisis in the making was handled with swiftness," Jaitley said in his address to the AGM of industry chamber Assocham. Debt-ridden IL&FS and its group companies have defaulted on loan repayments, following which the government superseded its Board by appointing eminent banker Uday Kotak as its Chairman. Talking about the political challenges facing the country, Jaitley said these are thrown up by unstable coalition and aspiring politicians, who want to acquire the top place. "Therefore, today what India needs is not individuals with lack of understanding of policies, lack of understanding of directions or inherently unstable coalition, but a government and leadership with absolute clarity about the direction so that this unique position which IMF refers to as a sweet spot in the world, this sweet spot we continue to occupy for the next two decades," he said. Jaitley said if India continues on a high growth path, then the country can get rid of poverty and can become a developed country. "You need a decisive government, you need a government which has a coherent policy and is absolutely clear in the direction you have to move, and you need a government which is not dependent on those who would try to pull the government down by their strategies," Jaitley said in his video conference address. The Indian economy grew at 8.2 per cent in the April-June quarter of current fiscal. It grew at 6.7 per cent in 2017-18 fiscal. Stating that domestic policies of certain countries have spillover effects on India, Jaitley hoped that such effects will not be everlasting and are transient in character. "As a fast-growing economy we have the capacity to face these challenges," he said. Jaitley said global oil prices have risen on account of "artificial shortages" and it has adversely impacted India. India imports 83 per cent of its oil needs. "Therefore we have to face that challenge by making our economy so resilient itself that we have the capacity to bear that challenge," he added.

India needs strong, decisive government to take swift decision, maintain high growth: Jaitley

Petrol and diesel prices increased again on Saturday by Rs 0.18 and Rs 0.29 respectively in the national capital. Petrol in Delhi will be sold at Rs 82.66 per litre, diesel for the day will be at Rs 74.19 per litre.

In Mumbai, petrol and diesel prices were at Rs 88.12 per litre, an increase of Rs 0.31, and Rs 78.82 per litre, up by Rs 0.31, respectively.

Fuel prices have been witnessing a steep rise since the past few months. While the Opposition has repeatedly blamed the union government for not doing enough to keep a check on prices, the latter has maintained that global crude oil prices and other international factors are causing a hike in prices of petroleum products.

Meanwhile Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in Delhi to discuss petroleum issues.

According to reports, the discussion in the meeting focused on increasing domestic oil production, subsidy borne by oil marketing companies and reducing imports to cut down the account deficit.

Petrol and diesel prices increased again on Saturday by Rs 0.18 and Rs 0.29 respectively in the national capital. Petrol in Delhi will be sold at Rs 82.66 per litre, diesel for the day will be at Rs 74.

Petrol and diesel prices increased again on Saturday by Rs 0.18 and Rs 0.29 respectively in the national capital. Petrol in Delhi will be sold at Rs 82.66 per litre, diesel for the day will be at Rs 74.19 per litre. In Mumbai, petrol and diesel prices were at Rs 88.12 per litre, an increase of Rs 0.31, and Rs 78.82 per litre, up by Rs 0.31, respectively. Fuel prices have been witnessing a steep rise since the past few months. While the Opposition has repeatedly blamed the union government for not doing enough to keep a check on prices, the latter has maintained that global crude oil prices and other international factors are causing a hike in prices of petroleum products. Meanwhile Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in Delhi to discuss petroleum issues. According to reports, the discussion in the meeting focused on increasing domestic oil production, subsidy borne by oil marketing companies and reducing imports to cut down the account deficit.

Fuel prices rise yet again, petrol sells at Rs 88.12 in Mumbai

Fuel prices continued to soar on Friday, with petrol and diesel rates hiked by Rs 0.12 and 0.28 respectively in Delhi. Petrol in Delhi will be sold at Rs 82.48 per litre, diesel for the day will be at Rs 74.90 per litre.

In Mumbai, petrol and diesel prices were at Rs 87.94 per litre, an increase of Rs 0.12, and Rs 78.51 per litre, up by Rs 0.29, respectively.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Petrol and diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> are Rs 82.48 per litre (increase by Rs 0.12) and Rs 74.90 (increase by Rs 0.28) respectively. Petrol and diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> are Rs 87.94 per litre (increase by Rs 0.12) and Rs 78.51 per litre (increase by Rs 0.29) respectively. <a href="https://t.co/a6xLXlTH6y">pic.twitter.com/a6xLXlTH6y</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1050550221418229761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Fuel prices have been witnessing a steep rise since the past few months. While the Opposition has repeatedly blamed the union government for not doing enough to keep a check on prices, the latter has maintained that global crude oil prices and other international factors are causing a hike in prices of petroleum products.

On October 4, the union government had announced a cut of Rs 2.50 per litre on both petrol and diesel prices after curbing excise duty on the commodity by Rs 1.50 per litre.&nbsp;

While making the announcement, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had also recommended all state governments to slash rates by a further Rs 2.5 to make fuel cheaper by Rs 5. 
&nbsp;

Fuel prices continued to soar on Friday, with petrol and diesel rates hiked by Rs 0.12 and 0.28 respectively in Delhi. Petrol in Delhi will be sold at Rs 82.48 per litre, diesel for the day will be at Rs 74.

Fuel prices continued to soar on Friday, with petrol and diesel rates hiked by Rs 0.12 and 0.28 respectively in Delhi. Petrol in Delhi will be sold at Rs 82.48 per litre, diesel for the day will be at Rs 74.90 per litre. In Mumbai, petrol and diesel prices were at Rs 87.94 per litre, an increase of Rs 0.12, and Rs 78.51 per litre, up by Rs 0.29, respectively. Petrol and diesel prices in #Delhi are Rs 82.48 per litre (increase by Rs 0.12) and Rs 74.90 (increase by Rs 0.28) respectively. Petrol and diesel prices in #Mumbai are Rs 87.94 per litre (increase by Rs 0.12) and Rs 78.51 per litre (increase by Rs 0.29) respectively. pic.twitter.com/a6xLXlTH6y — ANI (@ANI) October 12, 2018 × Fuel prices have been witnessing a steep rise since the past few months. While the Opposition has repeatedly blamed the union government for not doing enough to keep a check on prices, the latter has maintained that global crude oil prices and other international factors are causing a hike in prices of petroleum products. On October 4, the union government had announced a cut of Rs 2.50 per litre on both petrol and diesel prices after curbing excise duty on the commodity by Rs 1.50 per litre. While making the announcement, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had also recommended all state governments to slash rates by a further Rs 2.5 to make fuel cheaper by Rs 5.

Fuel prices continue to rise, petrol sells at Rs 87.94 a litre in Mumbai

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing a high-level meeting&nbsp;in Delhi on the state of the economy and oil sector with an agenda aimed to curb the rupee's continuous slide.

The main focus of the meeting is the rupee's continuing weakness against the dollar.

According to reports, the government could announce measures to control the current account deficit and the crude oil prices in the light of the upcoming sanctions on Iran by us. It may also announce a fresh set of measures that could include higher customs duties and import restrictions on certain non-essential items.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu are part of the meeting.

The government recently increased import duty on several electronic and consumer items including refrigerators, air conditioners and telecom equipment to rein in current account deficit and stabilise the rupee.

It also hiked duty on footwear, diamonds, and jet fuel as a part of its plan to get foreign funds flowing back to India recently.

According to WION's sources, there could be a new list of items that would attract higher import duty and there could be quantitative restrictions on inward shipments. &nbsp;

India's current account deficit widened to 2.4 per cent of GDP in April-June and the rupee is hovering around 74 to a dollar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing a high-level meeting in Delhi on the state of the economy and oil sector with an agenda aimed to curb the rupee's continuous slide.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing a high-level meeting in Delhi on the state of the economy and oil sector with an agenda aimed to curb the rupee's continuous slide. The main focus of the meeting is the rupee's continuing weakness against the dollar. According to reports, the government could announce measures to control the current account deficit and the crude oil prices in the light of the upcoming sanctions on Iran by us. It may also announce a fresh set of measures that could include higher customs duties and import restrictions on certain non-essential items. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu are part of the meeting. The government recently increased import duty on several electronic and consumer items including refrigerators, air conditioners and telecom equipment to rein in current account deficit and stabilise the rupee. It also hiked duty on footwear, diamonds, and jet fuel as a part of its plan to get foreign funds flowing back to India recently. According to WION's sources, there could be a new list of items that would attract higher import duty and there could be quantitative restrictions on inward shipments. India's current account deficit widened to 2.4 per cent of GDP in April-June and the rupee is hovering around 74 to a dollar.

PM Modi chairs high-level meeting on economy, finance & oil ministers attend

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said he did not agree with the portion of the historic Supreme Court judgment decriminalising consensual gay sex that called sexuality a part of free speech, as he felt it raises questions on restraining any form of homosexual or bisexual activity in a school hostel, prison or army frontier.

He also differed on a portion of the apex court ruling on adultery, saying it may end up converting the Indian family system into a Western family system.

On the Supreme Court allowing women's entry into the Sabarimala shrine, he said such a ruling cannot happen on select practices as it may have many social consequences.

Speaking at the HT Leadership Summit, Jaitley said the judgment decriminalising gay sex was fine but "the problem comes when writing these historical judgements, you get carried away and want to be part of history and therefore you go a step further".

He said he fairly agreed with the reasoning given by the court in the judgement that sexual activity is part of Article 21 of the Constitution that guarantees right of life and that no discrimination on the basis of sex should be there, but added that he completely disagrees with the reasoning that sexual activity is part of free speech.

"Because I think that's little excessive and consequences of that may not be on decriminalisation. Free speech is entirely a different gambit, it can be restrained on the reasons of sovereignty, security, public order and so on and mind you there is tendency of creating new fundamental rights everyday.

"So when you convert this into a fundamental right and say its free speech then how do you restrain any form of sexual activity, homosexual or bisexual in a school hostel, prison, army frontier," he said.

Stating that this requires further debate, he said this reasoning was not necessary for deciding the case of Section 377 which decriminalised gay sex. 
On the Supreme Court ruling on adultery, he said some of the judges said these are matrimonial offences and personal wrongs and not public wrongs.

"So therefore it is outside the purview of criminal law. Would that cover bigamy or polygamy also which are personal wrong? Would that cover cruelty? Would that cover dowry offences? Now this logic covering them, then it would be a wholly anti-women judgement," he said.

He said he was not in dispute that the "very badly worded section" on adultery needed to be quashed but "the later view may find a reference in some western journals very favourably but it may end up converting Indian family system into Western family system where the fragility of marriage as an institution itself will increase.

"Therefore you probably require to debate the second part of the observation which again was not necessary for deciding this case."

On the Sabarimala ruling, Jaitley said if you want to take a progressive step, then Articles 14 and 21 will apply against all religions.

"It can't happen that you select a practice and apply it because that will have many many social consequences in pluralist society like India. If you start stepping into the religious practices and customs and say (Article) 14 must be tested on... Personal law and (Article) 14 must be tested in Article 21, then will it apply to polygamy? Will it apply to oral divorces? Will it apply to other religions where ladies are not allowed to enter religious places?

"If you have a selective practice and then you use an argument to say well we will decide this issue in some other case every time it arises. If you are being progressive and bold then it must be uniformly so and that does not seem to be happening....If you are willing to proclaim you must be willing to strike," he said.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said he did not agree with the portion of the historic Supreme Court judgment decriminalising consensual gay sex that called sexuality a part of free speech, as he felt it raises questions on restraining any form of homosexual or bisexual activity in a school hostel, prison or army frontier.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said he did not agree with the portion of the historic Supreme Court judgment decriminalising consensual gay sex that called sexuality a part of free speech, as he felt it raises questions on restraining any form of homosexual or bisexual activity in a school hostel, prison or army frontier. He also differed on a portion of the apex court ruling on adultery, saying it may end up converting the Indian family system into a Western family system. On the Supreme Court allowing women's entry into the Sabarimala shrine, he said such a ruling cannot happen on select practices as it may have many social consequences. Speaking at the HT Leadership Summit, Jaitley said the judgment decriminalising gay sex was fine but "the problem comes when writing these historical judgements, you get carried away and want to be part of history and therefore you go a step further". He said he fairly agreed with the reasoning given by the court in the judgement that sexual activity is part of Article 21 of the Constitution that guarantees right of life and that no discrimination on the basis of sex should be there, but added that he completely disagrees with the reasoning that sexual activity is part of free speech. "Because I think that's little excessive and consequences of that may not be on decriminalisation. Free speech is entirely a different gambit, it can be restrained on the reasons of sovereignty, security, public order and so on and mind you there is tendency of creating new fundamental rights everyday. "So when you convert this into a fundamental right and say its free speech then how do you restrain any form of sexual activity, homosexual or bisexual in a school hostel, prison, army frontier," he said. Stating that this requires further debate, he said this reasoning was not necessary for deciding the case of Section 377 which decriminalised gay sex. On the Supreme Court ruling on adultery, he said some of the judges said these are matrimonial offences and personal wrongs and not public wrongs. "So therefore it is outside the purview of criminal law. Would that cover bigamy or polygamy also which are personal wrong? Would that cover cruelty? Would that cover dowry offences? Now this logic covering them, then it would be a wholly anti-women judgement," he said. He said he was not in dispute that the "very badly worded section" on adultery needed to be quashed but "the later view may find a reference in some western journals very favourably but it may end up converting Indian family system into Western family system where the fragility of marriage as an institution itself will increase. "Therefore you probably require to debate the second part of the observation which again was not necessary for deciding this case." On the Sabarimala ruling, Jaitley said if you want to take a progressive step, then Articles 14 and 21 will apply against all religions. "It can't happen that you select a practice and apply it because that will have many many social consequences in pluralist society like India. If you start stepping into the religious practices and customs and say (Article) 14 must be tested on... Personal law and (Article) 14 must be tested in Article 21, then will it apply to polygamy? Will it apply to oral divorces? Will it apply to other religions where ladies are not allowed to enter religious places? "If you have a selective practice and then you use an argument to say well we will decide this issue in some other case every time it arises. If you are being progressive and bold then it must be uniformly so and that does not seem to be happening....If you are willing to proclaim you must be willing to strike," he said.

SC ruling on 377: Disagree with reasoning that sexuality is part of free speech, says Arun Jaitley

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said there are some more steps on the anvil to narrow the current account deficit (CAD) and bolster forex inflows, news agency PTI reported.

The government has taken some steps and some more measures are likely to narrow CAD, Jaitley said at the HT Leadership Summit in Delhi, the report added.

Enunciating some of the steps taken recently, he said the government cut the borrowing target for the current fiscal by Rs 70,000 crore and allowed oil companies to raise USD 10 billion in one year.

(With PTI inputs)&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said there are some more steps on the anvil to narrow the current account deficit (CAD) and bolster forex inflows, news agency PTI reported.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday said there are some more steps on the anvil to narrow the current account deficit (CAD) and bolster forex inflows, news agency PTI reported. The government has taken some steps and some more measures are likely to narrow CAD, Jaitley said at the HT Leadership Summit in Delhi, the report added. Enunciating some of the steps taken recently, he said the government cut the borrowing target for the current fiscal by Rs 70,000 crore and allowed oil companies to raise USD 10 billion in one year. (With PTI inputs)

Some more steps likely to narrow CAD, says Arun Jaitley

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday briefed the media over looming concerns of relentlessly tumbling rupee and the unabated rise in fuel prices.&nbsp;

The minister stated that after intermagisterial discussions and meeting with the revenue department officials, it has been decided that the excise duty will be cut by Rs 1.50 rupee to give relief to the consumers.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Excise duty to be reduced by Rs.1.50 &amp; OMCs will absorb 1 rupee. So, a total of Rs.2.50 will be reduced on both diesel and petrol: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley <a href="https://t.co/sV4eZwmKEw">pic.twitter.com/sV4eZwmKEw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1047786317441114112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to the Finance Minister, while the excise duty has been cut by Rs 1.50, various oil marketing companies will also absorb Rs 1 giving a cumulative relief of Rs 2.50 on fuel prices to the consumers.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
We are writing to the state govts that as the central govt is cutting Rs 2.50 on both petrol &amp; diesel, they do the same: FM Arun Jaitley <a href="https://t.co/7QQ6TFrsnJ">pic.twitter.com/7QQ6TFrsnJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1047786767510896640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"We have decided to cut the excise duty through the revenue department and the oil marketing companies. I would urge state governments to also absorb similar amount to provide relief to the consumer," Jaitley told media.

Jaitley stated the widening Current Account Deficit as the major concern adding that it is "directly linked to global oil prices."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Rs 10,500 Crore will be the impact of excise duty cut this year: FM Arun Jaitley <a href="https://t.co/GChrYo8zlp">pic.twitter.com/GChrYo8zlp</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1047787838308343809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Finance Minister opened his address noting that the world crude prices this year have witnessed an all-time high. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been concerned about the escalating fuel prices in the country.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Several macroeconomic data is indicating stable measures. The first quarterly results have shown an 8.2% growth. Inflation is still moderate less than 4%: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley <a href="https://t.co/Dk5yLDfggX">pic.twitter.com/Dk5yLDfggX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1047788914432532480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Rs 10,500 Crore will be the impact of excise duty cut this year," he noted adding that the overall health of the economy looks healthy and stable.&nbsp;

"Several macroeconomic data is indicating stable measures. The first quarterly results have shown an 8.2% growth. Inflation is still moderate less than 4%," the minister said.&nbsp;

Jaitley also talked about the series of measures that were recently taken by the Central government to check the widening CAD and stem tumbling Indian currency.

"We had taken import restraining steps which had nearly 15 billion dollar impact. Money raised from masala bonds was exempted from tax," Jaitley shared.&nbsp;

The government's fuel-price cut move comes after petrol in Mumbai on Thursday reached Rs 91.34 per litre, while <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/petrol-price-rises-rs-9134litre-mumbai-rs-84litre-delhi-169288">diesel rose to Rs 80.10 per litre</a>. In Delhi, prices of petrol and diesel were hiked by 0.15 paise and 0.20 paise, respectively at Rs 84 per litre and Rs 75.45 per litre, respectively.&nbsp;

Indian stock markets today witnessed&nbsp;a tumult with the BSE benchmark Sensex cracking over 850 points in early session as the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rupee-continues-slide-against-dollar-hits-new-low-7377-169314">rupee hit another low</a> amid weak global cues and fears of widening current account deficit.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday briefed the media over looming concerns of relentlessly tumbling rupee and the unabated rise in fuel prices. The minister stated that after intermagisterial discussions and meeting with the revenue department officials, it has been decided that the excise duty will be cut by Rs 1.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday briefed the media over looming concerns of relentlessly tumbling rupee and the unabated rise in fuel prices. The minister stated that after intermagisterial discussions and meeting with the revenue department officials, it has been decided that the excise duty will be cut by Rs 1.50 rupee to give relief to the consumers. Excise duty to be reduced by Rs.1.50 & OMCs will absorb 1 rupee. So, a total of Rs.2.50 will be reduced on both diesel and petrol: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley pic.twitter.com/sV4eZwmKEw — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2018 × According to the Finance Minister, while the excise duty has been cut by Rs 1.50, various oil marketing companies will also absorb Rs 1 giving a cumulative relief of Rs 2.50 on fuel prices to the consumers. We are writing to the state govts that as the central govt is cutting Rs 2.50 on both petrol & diesel, they do the same: FM Arun Jaitley pic.twitter.com/7QQ6TFrsnJ — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2018 × "We have decided to cut the excise duty through the revenue department and the oil marketing companies. I would urge state governments to also absorb similar amount to provide relief to the consumer," Jaitley told media. Jaitley stated the widening Current Account Deficit as the major concern adding that it is "directly linked to global oil prices." Rs 10,500 Crore will be the impact of excise duty cut this year: FM Arun Jaitley pic.twitter.com/GChrYo8zlp — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2018 × The Finance Minister opened his address noting that the world crude prices this year have witnessed an all-time high. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been concerned about the escalating fuel prices in the country. Several macroeconomic data is indicating stable measures. The first quarterly results have shown an 8.2% growth. Inflation is still moderate less than 4%: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley pic.twitter.com/Dk5yLDfggX — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2018 × "Rs 10,500 Crore will be the impact of excise duty cut this year," he noted adding that the overall health of the economy looks healthy and stable. "Several macroeconomic data is indicating stable measures. The first quarterly results have shown an 8.2% growth. Inflation is still moderate less than 4%," the minister said. Jaitley also talked about the series of measures that were recently taken by the Central government to check the widening CAD and stem tumbling Indian currency. "We had taken import restraining steps which had nearly 15 billion dollar impact. Money raised from masala bonds was exempted from tax," Jaitley shared. The government's fuel-price cut move comes after petrol in Mumbai on Thursday reached Rs 91.34 per litre, while diesel rose to Rs 80.10 per litre. In Delhi, prices of petrol and diesel were hiked by 0.15 paise and 0.20 paise, respectively at Rs 84 per litre and Rs 75.45 per litre, respectively. Indian stock markets today witnessed a tumult with the BSE benchmark Sensex cracking over 850 points in early session as the rupee hit another low amid weak global cues and fears of widening current account deficit.

Centre has decided to cut fuel prices by Rs 2.50 with immediate effect: Jaitley

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday said the government is determined to contain the crisis at the IL&amp;FS at the earliest so that it does not leave any adverse impact.

The government earlier this week superseded the board of IL&amp;FS, which has a debt burden of Rs 91,000 crore and has defaulted on a series of loan repayments. The crisis at the IL&amp;FS has triggered concerns of a liquidity squeeze in the NBFCs and mutual funds.

The government has put in place a new board led by eminent banker Uday Kotak. The new board held its first meeting on Thursday.

"The government is determined to make sure that since this is an internal factor to India this should be contained quickly so that no adverse impact of it is left," Jaitley told reporters here.

He said there has been a "significant impact" on the markets in last few days on account of the contagion effect that took place on account of uncertainties over IL&amp;FS.

"The government has taken a decisive step in that regard, replaced the board and of course under the new board now it would take various decisions," he said.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday said the government is determined to contain the crisis at the IL&FS at the earliest so that it does not leave any adverse impact.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday said the government is determined to contain the crisis at the IL&FS at the earliest so that it does not leave any adverse impact. The government earlier this week superseded the board of IL&FS, which has a debt burden of Rs 91,000 crore and has defaulted on a series of loan repayments. The crisis at the IL&FS has triggered concerns of a liquidity squeeze in the NBFCs and mutual funds. The government has put in place a new board led by eminent banker Uday Kotak. The new board held its first meeting on Thursday. "The government is determined to make sure that since this is an internal factor to India this should be contained quickly so that no adverse impact of it is left," Jaitley told reporters here. He said there has been a "significant impact" on the markets in last few days on account of the contagion effect that took place on account of uncertainties over IL&FS. "The government has taken a decisive step in that regard, replaced the board and of course under the new board now it would take various decisions," he said.

Government determined to contain IL&FS crisis so that there is no adverse impact: Jaitley

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/centre-has-decided-to-cut-fuel-prices-by-rs-25-with-immediate-effect-state">Centre has decided to cut fuel prices by Rs 2.5 with immediate effect: Jaitley</a>

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday briefed the media over looming concerns of relentlessly tumbling rupee and the unabated rise in fuel prices.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-deports-7-rohingya-immigrants-to-myanmar-169424">Government deports 7 Rohingya immigrants to Myanmar</a>

The government today deported seven Rohingya immigrants, who were staying in Assam illegally, to their country of origin Myanmar, in a first such move.

The illegal immigrants were detained in 2012 and since then they had been lodged in Cachar Central Jail in Assam's Silchar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-indian-companies-barred-by-world-bank-in-2018-169408">Several Indian companies barred by World Bank in 2018</a>

Several Indian companies and some Indians have been barred by the World Bank from its various projects across the globe, the multilateral lending agency said in its first report on its efforts to fight corruption and safeguard donor resources.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-left-out-of-portugal-squad-169438">Cristiano Ronaldo left out of Portugal squad</a>

Cristiano Ronaldo on Thursday was left out of the Portugal squad for upcoming fixtures against Poland and Scotland.

However, it is still unclear if his omission is related to the rape allegations against him.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/four-russians-agents-expelled-on-cyber-attack-dutch-intelligence-169413">Four Russians agents expelled for cyber attack: Dutch intelligence</a>

Dutch intelligence thwarted a Russian cyber attack targeting the global chemical weapons watchdog in April and expelled four Russian agents, the government said Thursday.

Centre has decided to cut fuel prices by Rs 2.5 with immediate effect: Jaitley Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday briefed the media over looming concerns of relentlessly tumbling rupee and the unabated rise in fuel prices.

Centre has decided to cut fuel prices by Rs 2.5 with immediate effect: Jaitley Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday briefed the media over looming concerns of relentlessly tumbling rupee and the unabated rise in fuel prices. Government deports 7 Rohingya immigrants to Myanmar The government today deported seven Rohingya immigrants, who were staying in Assam illegally, to their country of origin Myanmar, in a first such move. The illegal immigrants were detained in 2012 and since then they had been lodged in Cachar Central Jail in Assam's Silchar. Several Indian companies barred by World Bank in 2018 Several Indian companies and some Indians have been barred by the World Bank from its various projects across the globe, the multilateral lending agency said in its first report on its efforts to fight corruption and safeguard donor resources. Cristiano Ronaldo left out of Portugal squad Cristiano Ronaldo on Thursday was left out of the Portugal squad for upcoming fixtures against Poland and Scotland. However, it is still unclear if his omission is related to the rape allegations against him. Four Russians agents expelled for cyber attack: Dutch intelligence Dutch intelligence thwarted a Russian cyber attack targeting the global chemical weapons watchdog in April and expelled four Russian agents, the government said Thursday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Monday defended loan write-offs by public sector banks, saying they do not lead to loan waivers and the exercise helps lenders clean up their balance sheets and achieve taxation efficiency.

He said public sector banks have recovered Rs 36,551 crore of bad loans or NPAs during April-June quarter of the current financial year as compared to Rs 74,562 crore recoveries made in the full 2017-18 fiscal.

Commenting on reports that the country's 21 state-owned banks wrote-off Rs 3.16 lakh crore of loans in four years of the BJP government and made recoveries of Rs 44,900 crore of written off loans, Jaitley in a Facebook blog said "technical write-offs" are resorted to by banks as per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines.

"This, however, does not lead to any loan waiver. Recovery of loans continues rigorously by banks," he said. "In fact, the defaulting management of most insolvent companies have been removed under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)."

Congress President Rahul Gandhi used the report to attack the government, saying demonetisation converted black money into white and Rs 3.16 lakh crore of loans were written off.

"Modi's India - For Common Man: Notebandi-line up and put your money in banks. All your details into Aadhar. You can't use your own money. For Crony capitalists: Notebandi-convert all your black money to white. Let's write off 3.16 lakh crore using common man's money," Gandhi said in a tweet.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Monday defended loan write-offs by public sector banks, saying they do not lead to loan waivers and the exercise helps lenders clean up their balance sheets and achieve taxation efficiency.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Monday defended loan write-offs by public sector banks, saying they do not lead to loan waivers and the exercise helps lenders clean up their balance sheets and achieve taxation efficiency. He said public sector banks have recovered Rs 36,551 crore of bad loans or NPAs during April-June quarter of the current financial year as compared to Rs 74,562 crore recoveries made in the full 2017-18 fiscal. Commenting on reports that the country's 21 state-owned banks wrote-off Rs 3.16 lakh crore of loans in four years of the BJP government and made recoveries of Rs 44,900 crore of written off loans, Jaitley in a Facebook blog said "technical write-offs" are resorted to by banks as per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines. "This, however, does not lead to any loan waiver. Recovery of loans continues rigorously by banks," he said. "In fact, the defaulting management of most insolvent companies have been removed under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)." Congress President Rahul Gandhi used the report to attack the government, saying demonetisation converted black money into white and Rs 3.16 lakh crore of loans were written off. "Modi's India - For Common Man: Notebandi-line up and put your money in banks. All your details into Aadhar. You can't use your own money. For Crony capitalists: Notebandi-convert all your black money to white. Let's write off 3.16 lakh crore using common man's money," Gandhi said in a tweet.

Arun Jaitley defends loan write-offs; says they don't lead to waiver

Terming Congress a "national saboteur", Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday claimed that the party has been busy spreading false information about the Centre's possible moves in relation to the private sector company Infrastructure Leasing &amp; Financial Services Limited (IL&amp;FS).

"The Congress Party, for the last few days, has been busy spreading disinformation about the Government's possible moves in relation to the private sector company IL&amp;FS. The Congress is a national saboteur. It party wants to sabotage India's economy by allowing a situation in relation to a company to persist, expand and become unmanageable. It lacks statesmanship and vision."Furthermore, Jaitley published a letter written by Congress leader KV Thomas, which highlighted ways for the government to bail out IL&amp;FS, and suggested assistance using entities like State Bank of India (SBI) and the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)."

A senior Congress leader, Prof. K.V. Thomas, who is a former Union Minister and has been the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, has written to me on 20th September 2018 making such a request.

I am enclosing his letter. It demolishes every word that Rahul Gandhi and his coterie have been spreading. It may be advisable for Rahul Gandhi to get some 'words of wisdom'&nbsp;from Prof&nbsp;KV&nbsp;Thomas," he said.

Continuing his tirade against the Gandhi scion, Jaitley asked, "The financial institutions'&nbsp;investment in any company - 'is it a scam'&nbsp;as Rahul Gandhi and his coterie are spreading? Was it a scam in 1987 when the IL&amp;FS was promoted with the Central Bank of India has 50.5 per cent shares and the UTI having 30.5 per cent shares? Was it a scam in 2005 when LIC acquired 15 per cent stake in IL&amp;FS and in March 2006 when it acquired another 11.10 per cent stake in the IL&amp;FS? In fact, LIC further bought 19.34 lakh shares in IL&amp;FS in 2010. Do I start calling all these investments today 'a scam'&nbsp;as per 'the perverted Rahul Gandhi school of thinking?'&nbsp;From where has he invented a proposal of Rs.91, 000 crores investment likely to take place by LIC and SBI in the IL&amp;FS? In fact, it is the section of the Congress leadership which has been urging me to enable investments in the IL&amp;FS and save the company."Concluding his blog, Jaitley said that the Congress must remember that 'the days of crony capitalism are over.' "The Congress Party must remember that 'the days of crony capitalism are over.'&nbsp;The NDA Government deals with such challenges objectively and professionally," he said.

The fresh attack from Jaitley came after the Congress President accused the Prime Minister of bailing out the debt-ridden IL&amp;FS using funds from the SBI and LIC. He had also accused the Prime Minister of working for select "crony capitalists".

 
&nbsp;

Terming Congress a "national saboteur", Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday claimed that the party has been busy spreading false information about the Centre's possible moves in relation to the private sector company Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Limited (IL&FS).

Terming Congress a "national saboteur", Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday claimed that the party has been busy spreading false information about the Centre's possible moves in relation to the private sector company Infrastructure Leasing & Financial Services Limited (IL&FS). "The Congress Party, for the last few days, has been busy spreading disinformation about the Government's possible moves in relation to the private sector company IL&FS. The Congress is a national saboteur. It party wants to sabotage India's economy by allowing a situation in relation to a company to persist, expand and become unmanageable. It lacks statesmanship and vision."Furthermore, Jaitley published a letter written by Congress leader KV Thomas, which highlighted ways for the government to bail out IL&FS, and suggested assistance using entities like State Bank of India (SBI) and the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC)." A senior Congress leader, Prof. K.V. Thomas, who is a former Union Minister and has been the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, has written to me on 20th September 2018 making such a request. I am enclosing his letter. It demolishes every word that Rahul Gandhi and his coterie have been spreading. It may be advisable for Rahul Gandhi to get some 'words of wisdom' from Prof KV Thomas," he said. Continuing his tirade against the Gandhi scion, Jaitley asked, "The financial institutions' investment in any company - 'is it a scam' as Rahul Gandhi and his coterie are spreading? Was it a scam in 1987 when the IL&FS was promoted with the Central Bank of India has 50.5 per cent shares and the UTI having 30.5 per cent shares? Was it a scam in 2005 when LIC acquired 15 per cent stake in IL&FS and in March 2006 when it acquired another 11.10 per cent stake in the IL&FS? In fact, LIC further bought 19.34 lakh shares in IL&FS in 2010. Do I start calling all these investments today 'a scam' as per 'the perverted Rahul Gandhi school of thinking?' From where has he invented a proposal of Rs.91, 000 crores investment likely to take place by LIC and SBI in the IL&FS? In fact, it is the section of the Congress leadership which has been urging me to enable investments in the IL&FS and save the company."Concluding his blog, Jaitley said that the Congress must remember that 'the days of crony capitalism are over.' "The Congress Party must remember that 'the days of crony capitalism are over.' The NDA Government deals with such challenges objectively and professionally," he said. The fresh attack from Jaitley came after the Congress President accused the Prime Minister of bailing out the debt-ridden IL&FS using funds from the SBI and LIC. He had also accused the Prime Minister of working for select "crony capitalists".

Arun Jaitley calls Congress 'national saboteur'

Finance minister Arun Jaitley welcomed Supreme Court's decision of upholding the constitutionality of the Aadhaar scheme as he called the verdict "historic" and said that its concept has been accepted after judicial review.

"It is a historic order, Aadhaar's concept has been accepted after judicial review, we welcome this decision of Supreme Court," Jaitley said in a press briefing after he chaired a cabinet meeting in the capital.

Taking a dig at Congress, Jaitley said, "Everyone who has been criticizing Aadhaar should understand that they cannot defy technology. Mainstream should accept changes, one can understand the fringe being against".

He continued his attack by saying that the "Congress cuts a very sorry figure here, they introduced the idea but they did not know what to do with it." &nbsp;

Elaborating on the importance of Aadhaar for proper distribution of welfare scheme and its benefits, he said&nbsp;the government is saving over Rs 90,000 crore due to Aadhaar.

The top court pronounced its crucial verdict on a batch of pleas challenging the constitutional validity of Centre's flagship Aadhaar scheme and its enabling 2016 law today where it <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-upholds-validity-aadhaar-says-cant-be-insisted-education-and-banking">upheld the validity of the Unique Identification number</a>.

"Aadhaar cannot be insisted upon in schools and private companies. CBSE, UGC and NEET making Adhaar making mandatory are bad," said Supreme Court.

The court's judgement means that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/complete-list-services-exempted-aadhaar-supreme-court-directive-167758">private bodies like mobile telecom operator companies</a>, e-commerce firms, private banks cannot mandatorily ask for Aadhaar details of their customers.

Finance minister Arun Jaitley welcomed Supreme Court's decision of upholding the constitutionality of the Aadhaar scheme as he called the verdict "historic" and said that its concept has been accepted after judicial review.

Finance minister Arun Jaitley welcomed Supreme Court's decision of upholding the constitutionality of the Aadhaar scheme as he called the verdict "historic" and said that its concept has been accepted after judicial review. "It is a historic order, Aadhaar's concept has been accepted after judicial review, we welcome this decision of Supreme Court," Jaitley said in a press briefing after he chaired a cabinet meeting in the capital. Taking a dig at Congress, Jaitley said, "Everyone who has been criticizing Aadhaar should understand that they cannot defy technology. Mainstream should accept changes, one can understand the fringe being against". He continued his attack by saying that the "Congress cuts a very sorry figure here, they introduced the idea but they did not know what to do with it." Elaborating on the importance of Aadhaar for proper distribution of welfare scheme and its benefits, he said the government is saving over Rs 90,000 crore due to Aadhaar. The top court pronounced its crucial verdict on a batch of pleas challenging the constitutional validity of Centre's flagship Aadhaar scheme and its enabling 2016 law today where it upheld the validity of the Unique Identification number. "Aadhaar cannot be insisted upon in schools and private companies. CBSE, UGC and NEET making Adhaar making mandatory are bad," said Supreme Court. The court's judgement means that private bodies like mobile telecom operator companies, e-commerce firms, private banks cannot mandatorily ask for Aadhaar details of their customers.

'It is a historic order', says Jaitley after Supreme Court's Aadhaar verdict

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is expected to hold a meeting with Public Sector Banks today, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Officials from Debt Recovery Tribunal, Bank Board Bureau, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will attend the meeting.

The Finance Minister is expected to hold discussions on the review of recovery, bank performance and reforms, financial inclusion, digitalisation, housing loans, MSME lending and new initiatives during the meeting.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rupee-sinks-new-low-over-trumps-iran-oil-sanctions-fear-spike-crude-167524">Indian currency tumbled to a new low on Tuesday</a> to 72.96 falling 33 paisa in early trade.

The rupee had closed at 72.63, down 43 paisa on Monday ahead of impending US sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The meeting chaired by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will hold discussions on the review of recovery, bank performance and reforms, financial inclusion, digitalisation, housing loans, MSME lending and new initiatives.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1044439762453622785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The government had earlier this month announced an easing of overseas borrowing norms for manufacturing companies, removal of restrictions on foreign portfolio investors (FPI) investment in corporate bonds and tax benefits on Masala bonds to shore up rupee and check to the widening of current account deficit.

The rupee has been battered for over a month now amid sell-offs sweeping emerging markets following a rout in the currencies of Argentina and Turkey.

The Indian currency has set a string of record lows, dampening some of the optimism about India’s world-beating economic growth.

The rupee on last Friday closed at 72.20 to the US dollar, higher than the record low of 72.91 it had hit earlier this month, PTI reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is expected to hold a meeting with Public Sector Banks today, news agency ANI reported. Officials from Debt Recovery Tribunal, Bank Board Bureau, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will attend the meeting.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is expected to hold a meeting with Public Sector Banks today, news agency ANI reported. Officials from Debt Recovery Tribunal, Bank Board Bureau, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will attend the meeting. The Finance Minister is expected to hold discussions on the review of recovery, bank performance and reforms, financial inclusion, digitalisation, housing loans, MSME lending and new initiatives during the meeting. Meanwhile, the Indian currency tumbled to a new low on Tuesday to 72.96 falling 33 paisa in early trade. The rupee had closed at 72.63, down 43 paisa on Monday ahead of impending US sanctions on Iran. The meeting chaired by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will hold discussions on the review of recovery, bank performance and reforms, financial inclusion, digitalisation, housing loans, MSME lending and new initiatives. — ANI (@ANI) September 25, 2018 × The government had earlier this month announced an easing of overseas borrowing norms for manufacturing companies, removal of restrictions on foreign portfolio investors (FPI) investment in corporate bonds and tax benefits on Masala bonds to shore up rupee and check to the widening of current account deficit. The rupee has been battered for over a month now amid sell-offs sweeping emerging markets following a rout in the currencies of Argentina and Turkey. The Indian currency has set a string of record lows, dampening some of the optimism about India’s world-beating economic growth. The rupee on last Friday closed at 72.20 to the US dollar, higher than the record low of 72.91 it had hit earlier this month, PTI reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Finance Minister Jaitley to hold meeting over bank performance, housing loans today 

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/despite-requests-no-plans-meet-iran-president-trump-167606">Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President'</a>

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bad-debts-decline-loan-recovery-picking-psu-banks-says-arun-jaitley-167633">Bad debts on a decline, loan recovery of PSU banks picking up, says Arun Jaitley</a>

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said bad debts or NPAs in the banking system are on the decline as recoveries of unpaid loans have picked up.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-mirabai-chanu-conferred-rajiv-gandhi-khel-ratna-award-167619">Virat Kohli, Mirabai Chanu conferred Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award</a>

Indian Cricket team captain Virat Kohli and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu were conferred with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-pronounce-judgment-aadhaar-validity-tomorrow-167609">Can Aadhaar be made mandatory? Supreme Court judgement tomorrow</a>

The Supreme Court will likely pronounce the crucial judgment on petitions challenging the validity of Aadhaar on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/merkel-says-still-unclear-what-britain-wants-brexit-talks-167599">German Chancellor Angela Merkel says still unclear what Britain wants in Brexit talks</a>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Britain had still not expressed a clear position on its post-Brexit relations with the EU, warning that only "six to eight weeks" remained to reach an agreement.

&nbsp;

Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other.

Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Bad debts on a decline, loan recovery of PSU banks picking up, says Arun Jaitley Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said bad debts or NPAs in the banking system are on the decline as recoveries of unpaid loans have picked up. Virat Kohli, Mirabai Chanu conferred Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award Indian Cricket team captain Virat Kohli and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu were conferred with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday. Can Aadhaar be made mandatory? Supreme Court judgement tomorrow The Supreme Court will likely pronounce the crucial judgment on petitions challenging the validity of Aadhaar on Wednesday. German Chancellor Angela Merkel says still unclear what Britain wants in Brexit talks German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Britain had still not expressed a clear position on its post-Brexit relations with the EU, warning that only "six to eight weeks" remained to reach an agreement.

A day after calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi ''thief'', Rahul Gandhi on Sunday took a swipe at Finance Minister Arun Jaitley with a cryptic tweet and accused him of defending the ''indefensible''.&nbsp;

Punning on the union minister's surname that he is a lier, Rahul tweeted, ''Mr Jetlie’s speciality is his ability to spin &nbsp;“2 truths”, or lies, with fake self-righteousness &amp; indignation to defend the indefensible.'' &nbsp;

''It’s high time he (Jaitley), the RM &amp; our PM stop lying and call a JPC to establish the full, uncorrupted truth about the #RafaleScam,'' he further said in the tweet.

Congress and BJP are locked in a war of words over the ongoing Rafale deal with both accusing each other of corruption.&nbsp;

Yesterday, Rahul Gandhi taking a swipe at BJP's much-touted surgical strikes on said PM &nbsp;Modi and Anil Ambani carried out a &nbsp;one hundred &amp; thirty thousand crore, surgical strike on the Indian Defence forces.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Jaitley on Sunday responded to Raul's thief remark.

Finance Minister talking to news agency ANI, on Sunday attacked Congress President Rahul Gandhi over lowering the public discourse. Jaitley said; "Public discourse is not a laughter challenge, you go and hug someone, wink at someone, then keep giving wrong statements. In a democracy, you have the right to criticise but the choice of words should be such that it shows some semblance of intelligence"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Mr Jetlie’s speciality is his ability to spin “2 truths”, or lies, with fake self righteousness &amp; indignation to defend the indefensible. It’s high time he, the RM &amp; our PM stop lying and call a JPC to establish the full, uncorrupted truth about the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleScam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleScam</a>. <a href="https://t.co/iQxrV5ooN5">pic.twitter.com/iQxrV5ooN5</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1043822025234677761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A day after calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi ''thief'', Rahul Gandhi on Sunday took a swipe at Finance Minister Arun Jaitley with a cryptic tweet and accused him of defending the ''indefensible''.

A day after calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi ''thief'', Rahul Gandhi on Sunday took a swipe at Finance Minister Arun Jaitley with a cryptic tweet and accused him of defending the ''indefensible''. Punning on the union minister's surname that he is a lier, Rahul tweeted, ''Mr Jetlie’s speciality is his ability to spin “2 truths”, or lies, with fake self-righteousness & indignation to defend the indefensible.'' ''It’s high time he (Jaitley), the RM & our PM stop lying and call a JPC to establish the full, uncorrupted truth about the #RafaleScam,'' he further said in the tweet. Congress and BJP are locked in a war of words over the ongoing Rafale deal with both accusing each other of corruption. Yesterday, Rahul Gandhi taking a swipe at BJP's much-touted surgical strikes on said PM Modi and Anil Ambani carried out a one hundred & thirty thousand crore, surgical strike on the Indian Defence forces. Meanwhile, Jaitley on Sunday responded to Raul's thief remark. Finance Minister talking to news agency ANI, on Sunday attacked Congress President Rahul Gandhi over lowering the public discourse. Jaitley said; "Public discourse is not a laughter challenge, you go and hug someone, wink at someone, then keep giving wrong statements. In a democracy, you have the right to criticise but the choice of words should be such that it shows some semblance of intelligence" Mr Jetlie’s speciality is his ability to spin “2 truths”, or lies, with fake self righteousness & indignation to defend the indefensible. It’s high time he, the RM & our PM stop lying and call a JPC to establish the full, uncorrupted truth about the #RafaleScam. pic.twitter.com/iQxrV5ooN5 — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) September 23, 2018 ×

Rahul Gandhi calls for JPC to establish 'uncorrupted' truth in Rafale deal

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday called Congress president Rahul Gandhi a "Clown Prince" and the opposition party hit back to dub the senior BJP leader as a "court jester" in bitter personal attacks over Rafale deal, NPAs and waiving loans of industrialists.

As the rival parties accused each other of resorting to falsehood and lies, the Congress also demanded Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's resignation for allegedly "misleading" the people on the Rafale deal. Gandhi accusing the minister of "lying" on HAL's capability to build the jet fighters, saying her position is untenable. 
In a hard hitting Facebook blog titled "Falsehood of a 'Clown Prince'" to reply to&nbsp; 
Gandhi's charges made during his political rallies, Jaitley accused him of "lying" about Modi government waiving Rs 2.5 lakh crore of loans of 15 industrialists. He asserted not a single rupee of any debtor has been waived by the BJP government.

Loans to the country's 12 defaulters were given out prior to 2014 and it was only the present government which was making recoveries, he said, adding defaulters are losing their companies and assets as they are being auctioned to recover dues.

"You lied on the Rafale deal, you lied on the Non Performing Assets(NPAs). Your temperament to concoct facts raises a legitimate question ? do people whose natural preference is falsehood deserve to be a part of the public discourse," he said.

"The world's largest democracy must seriously introspect whether public discourse should be allowed to be polluted by the falsehood of a 'Clown Prince'." 
Jaitley alleged the previous Congress-led UPA government "concealed" the loans despite default by rolling them over and NPAs or bad loans were hidden under the carpet.

"The truth, Mr Rahul Gandhi, is that your Government allowed the banks to be looted. The loans were inadequately securitized. Your Government was in complicity," he wrote.

Jaitley accused Gandhi of "concocting a lie" and repeating it as many times and went on to cite previous arguments he had made to counter the charges on Rafale deal.

"In mature democracies, those who rely on falsehood are considered unfit for public life. Many have been banished from political activity because they were caught lying.&nbsp; 
But this rule obviously can't apply to a dynastic organisation like Congress party," he said.

"If the 'Rafale concoctions' were the first big lie, the second one stated repeatedly is that Mr Modi waived off Rs 2.50 lakh crores of 15 industrialists. Every word of that sentence repeatedly uttered by Rahul Gandhi is false."

The Congress on its part accused Jaitley of "lying" on the issue of NPAs and dubbed him as a "court jester" writing "wasteful" blogs,

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala accused Jaitley of making desperate attempts at spreading "fake agenda to stay relevant as a court jester" and asked him why he is hiding behind abuse to the opposition and demanded answers from him on the issue of NPAs as well as the Rafale jet fighter deal with France.

He said Jaitley and the Modi government have been "trapped" on the Rafale issue and that is why they are resorting to abuse against the opposition instead of replying to questions asked.

"Arun Jaitley is desperate in his attempt to stay relevant as a ?Court Jester' to ?Modi Sultanate'. 'Abuse, diversion' and deception' are the desperate tools of a 'Lying -Jait-LIE'.

"Instead of hiding behind the cloak of expletives for the opposition, let FM coherently answer politically relevant issues," Surjewala told reporters.

Attacking the government on the issue of NPAs, the Congress leader alleged collusion between NPA's, bank looters and the Modi government.

"Political amnesia and chest thumping cannot obliterate your dismal record of dismantling India's economic progress or as also the surging NPA's resulting out of ?bankruptcy of economic vision' of Modi Government," he alleged.

Gandhi took to Twitter to attack Sitharaman, alleging that her position as the defence minister has become untenable as a former chief of the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has "nailed her lie".

"The RM (Rafale Minister) tasked with defending corruption has been caught lying again. The former HAL Chief, T S Raju, has nailed her lie, that HAL didn't have the capability to build the RAFALE. Her position is untenable &amp; she must resign," he tweeted and tagged a media report on the former HAL chief's assertion.

Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari cited the remarks of former HAL chief T Suvarna Raju to attack Sitharaman over the issue of HAL's capability to build the Rafale aircraft.

Tewari hit out at Sitharaman for alleging that the UPA did not extend support to HAL when the state-run company was engaged in talks with French firm Dassault Aviation for the manufacturer of Rafale jets in India under the offset agreement.

He said the former HAL chief had made certain "extremely pertinent points" that "absolutely demolish" the entire case that the NDA government has been trying to build on the Rafale issue.

Tewari said Raju had made it clear in his statement that HAL and Dassault had signed the mutual workshare contract and given it to the government.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday called Congress president Rahul Gandhi a "Clown Prince" and the opposition party hit back to dub the senior BJP leader as a "court jester" in bitter personal attacks over Rafale deal, NPAs and waiving loans of industrialists.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Thursday called Congress president Rahul Gandhi a "Clown Prince" and the opposition party hit back to dub the senior BJP leader as a "court jester" in bitter personal attacks over Rafale deal, NPAs and waiving loans of industrialists. As the rival parties accused each other of resorting to falsehood and lies, the Congress also demanded Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's resignation for allegedly "misleading" the people on the Rafale deal. Gandhi accusing the minister of "lying" on HAL's capability to build the jet fighters, saying her position is untenable. In a hard hitting Facebook blog titled "Falsehood of a 'Clown Prince'" to reply to Gandhi's charges made during his political rallies, Jaitley accused him of "lying" about Modi government waiving Rs 2.5 lakh crore of loans of 15 industrialists. He asserted not a single rupee of any debtor has been waived by the BJP government. Loans to the country's 12 defaulters were given out prior to 2014 and it was only the present government which was making recoveries, he said, adding defaulters are losing their companies and assets as they are being auctioned to recover dues. "You lied on the Rafale deal, you lied on the Non Performing Assets(NPAs). Your temperament to concoct facts raises a legitimate question ? do people whose natural preference is falsehood deserve to be a part of the public discourse," he said. "The world's largest democracy must seriously introspect whether public discourse should be allowed to be polluted by the falsehood of a 'Clown Prince'." Jaitley alleged the previous Congress-led UPA government "concealed" the loans despite default by rolling them over and NPAs or bad loans were hidden under the carpet. "The truth, Mr Rahul Gandhi, is that your Government allowed the banks to be looted. The loans were inadequately securitized. Your Government was in complicity," he wrote. Jaitley accused Gandhi of "concocting a lie" and repeating it as many times and went on to cite previous arguments he had made to counter the charges on Rafale deal. "In mature democracies, those who rely on falsehood are considered unfit for public life. Many have been banished from political activity because they were caught lying. But this rule obviously can't apply to a dynastic organisation like Congress party," he said. "If the 'Rafale concoctions' were the first big lie, the second one stated repeatedly is that Mr Modi waived off Rs 2.50 lakh crores of 15 industrialists. Every word of that sentence repeatedly uttered by Rahul Gandhi is false." The Congress on its part accused Jaitley of "lying" on the issue of NPAs and dubbed him as a "court jester" writing "wasteful" blogs, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala accused Jaitley of making desperate attempts at spreading "fake agenda to stay relevant as a court jester" and asked him why he is hiding behind abuse to the opposition and demanded answers from him on the issue of NPAs as well as the Rafale jet fighter deal with France. He said Jaitley and the Modi government have been "trapped" on the Rafale issue and that is why they are resorting to abuse against the opposition instead of replying to questions asked. "Arun Jaitley is desperate in his attempt to stay relevant as a ?Court Jester' to ?Modi Sultanate'. 'Abuse, diversion' and deception' are the desperate tools of a 'Lying -Jait-LIE'. "Instead of hiding behind the cloak of expletives for the opposition, let FM coherently answer politically relevant issues," Surjewala told reporters. Attacking the government on the issue of NPAs, the Congress leader alleged collusion between NPA's, bank looters and the Modi government. "Political amnesia and chest thumping cannot obliterate your dismal record of dismantling India's economic progress or as also the surging NPA's resulting out of ?bankruptcy of economic vision' of Modi Government," he alleged. Gandhi took to Twitter to attack Sitharaman, alleging that her position as the defence minister has become untenable as a former chief of the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has "nailed her lie". "The RM (Rafale Minister) tasked with defending corruption has been caught lying again. The former HAL Chief, T S Raju, has nailed her lie, that HAL didn't have the capability to build the RAFALE. Her position is untenable & she must resign," he tweeted and tagged a media report on the former HAL chief's assertion. Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari cited the remarks of former HAL chief T Suvarna Raju to attack Sitharaman over the issue of HAL's capability to build the Rafale aircraft. Tewari hit out at Sitharaman for alleging that the UPA did not extend support to HAL when the state-run company was engaged in talks with French firm Dassault Aviation for the manufacturer of Rafale jets in India under the offset agreement. He said the former HAL chief had made certain "extremely pertinent points" that "absolutely demolish" the entire case that the NDA government has been trying to build on the Rafale issue. Tewari said Raju had made it clear in his statement that HAL and Dassault had signed the mutual workshare contract and given it to the government.

Jaitley calls Rahul 'Clown Prince', Congress hits back with 'court jester'

"The great-grandson of the man who authored 'The Discovery of India'&nbsp;could with his customary inaccuracies one day give to this country his monumental work on 'The Rediscovery of Coca-Cola,'" Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley published a blog on Wednesday targetting Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, harping on his factual "customary inaccuracies" and his "inability to understand basic procedure of bank functioning".&nbsp;

In a scathing attack on the Congress, Jaitley questioned if the party has no ideology left at its core and if its Anti-Modi stance is the only way to steer the ship forward.&nbsp;

Jaitley eulogised NDA's Mudra Yojana describing it as an imperative tool in job creation and generating self-employment opportunities to various weaker sections.

"Two days ago, while addressing a gathering of what they claimed were their OBC supporters, Rahul Gandhi spoke on the entrepreneurial skills of Shikanjiwalas, dabbawalas and mechanics. Though factually what he stated was incorrect, the larger point is that he saw virtues in these professions which can act as a launch pad for many start-ups," Jaitley wrote.

"It is the NDA Government under Prime Minister Modi which realised the importance of millions of such self-employment opportunities for which in the year 2015 Mudra Yojana was launched... The UPA never did so," he further added.&nbsp;

The piece continued to attack Rahul Gandhi stating that while political positions are heritable, "unfortunately wisdom is not. It has to be acquired through learning".

Jaitley, in his verbal attack, questioned the Congress' new-found love for the OBC community adding that "the OBCs deserted Congress Party in the early 1990s. The Congress was always anti-OBC".&nbsp;

Later in the piece, Jaitley enumerates instances where he thinks the Congress chief gave away his weaknesses. "Interacting with his interviewer in Singapore a few weeks ago, Rahul Gandhi left his audience stunned by suggesting if MRI machines in India were connected, this would lead to a Medical Revolution. How? Except breaching a patient’s privacy by sharing his details with other hospitals what would this achieve?" Jaitley questioned.&nbsp;

"In all the above statements, there is no ideological pattern. Ignorance with anti-Modism is a common thread," the piece read.

Jaitley concluded by announcing dynastic political parties as "family and personality dominated" where "ideology takes a back seat".&nbsp;

"The leader’s ill-informed instincts become the ideology. This can only happen to a party which becomes ideologyless," the piece concluded.

Jaitley, in his verbal attack, questioned the Congress' new-found love for the OBC community adding that 'the OBCs deserted Congress Party in the early 1990s. The Congress was always anti-OBC'

"The great-grandson of the man who authored 'The Discovery of India' could with his customary inaccuracies one day give to this country his monumental work on 'The Rediscovery of Coca-Cola,'" Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley published a blog on Wednesday targetting Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, harping on his factual "customary inaccuracies" and his "inability to understand basic procedure of bank functioning". In a scathing attack on the Congress, Jaitley questioned if the party has no ideology left at its core and if its Anti-Modi stance is the only way to steer the ship forward. Jaitley eulogised NDA's Mudra Yojana describing it as an imperative tool in job creation and generating self-employment opportunities to various weaker sections. "Two days ago, while addressing a gathering of what they claimed were their OBC supporters, Rahul Gandhi spoke on the entrepreneurial skills of Shikanjiwalas, dabbawalas and mechanics. Though factually what he stated was incorrect, the larger point is that he saw virtues in these professions which can act as a launch pad for many start-ups," Jaitley wrote. "It is the NDA Government under Prime Minister Modi which realised the importance of millions of such self-employment opportunities for which in the year 2015 Mudra Yojana was launched... The UPA never did so," he further added. The piece continued to attack Rahul Gandhi stating that while political positions are heritable, "unfortunately wisdom is not. It has to be acquired through learning". Jaitley, in his verbal attack, questioned the Congress' new-found love for the OBC community adding that "the OBCs deserted Congress Party in the early 1990s. The Congress was always anti-OBC". Later in the piece, Jaitley enumerates instances where he thinks the Congress chief gave away his weaknesses. "Interacting with his interviewer in Singapore a few weeks ago, Rahul Gandhi left his audience stunned by suggesting if MRI machines in India were connected, this would lead to a Medical Revolution. How? Except breaching a patient’s privacy by sharing his details with other hospitals what would this achieve?" Jaitley questioned. "In all the above statements, there is no ideological pattern. Ignorance with anti-Modism is a common thread," the piece read. Jaitley concluded by announcing dynastic political parties as "family and personality dominated" where "ideology takes a back seat". "The leader’s ill-informed instincts become the ideology. This can only happen to a party which becomes ideologyless," the piece concluded.

Jaitley attacks Rahul Gandhi in blog post; says ignorance with 'anti-Modism' is common thread

The interim finance minister, Piyush Goyal held his first press meet as a finance minister on Friday after meeting the heads of public sector banks.

During the meet, he said, that the government was committed to support all state-run banks and strengthen their operations after several lenders reported a jump in net losses earlier this month.

"The government stands committed to support all 21 Public sector banks," Piyush Goyal told reporters after a meeting with bank chiefs.

Indian banks, already burdened by a near-record 9.5 trillion rupees ($141 billion) of soured loans as of last year, reported a further rise in bad loans in the March quarter after the Reserve Bank of India withdrew half a dozen loan-restructuring schemes and tightened some rules in February.

Goyal further informed media that they discussed credit flow and other issues&nbspwith PSU bank heads.

He further informed that bankers are looking to put up a mechanism to resolve stressed accounts in transparent and speedy manner and the banks will soon&nbspcreate a mechanism for managing stressed accounts.

"A presentation was made by SBI based on several years of experience and I am given to understand that all the bankers are now wishing to set up such a mechanism which will enable faster resolution of stressed accounts in a very transparent manner," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp

Piyush Goyal is a minister of railways and coal but currently, he has given an additional charge of a finance minister as Arun Jaitley is undergoing a treatment.

(With inputs from news agencies)

The interim finance minister, Piyush Goyal held his first press meet as a finance minister on Friday after meeting the heads of public sector banks

The interim finance minister, Piyush Goyal held his first press meet as a finance minister on Friday after meeting the heads of public sector banks. During the meet, he said, that the government was committed to support all state-run banks and strengthen their operations after several lenders reported a jump in net losses earlier this month. "The government stands committed to support all 21 Public sector banks," Piyush Goyal told reporters after a meeting with bank chiefs. Indian banks, already burdened by a near-record 9.5 trillion rupees ($141 billion) of soured loans as of last year, reported a further rise in bad loans in the March quarter after the Reserve Bank of India withdrew half a dozen loan-restructuring schemes and tightened some rules in February. Goyal further informed media that they discussed credit flow and other issues&nbspwith PSU bank heads. He further informed that bankers are looking to put up a mechanism to resolve stressed accounts in transparent and speedy manner and the banks will soon&nbspcreate a mechanism for managing stressed accounts. "A presentation was made by SBI based on several years of experience and I am given to understand that all the bankers are now wishing to set up such a mechanism which will enable faster resolution of stressed accounts in a very transparent manner," news agency ANI reported. Piyush Goyal is a minister of railways and coal but currently, he has given an additional charge of a finance minister as Arun Jaitley is undergoing a treatment. (With inputs from news agencies)

Government committed to support all state-run banks says, Piyush Goyal

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has slammed — and fact-checked — the speech Rahul Gandhi's gave at Mandsaur today.&nbsp;

"How much does he know? When will he know?" Jaitley said in a Facebook post. He then went on to ask whether Rahul was being "inadequately briefed" or whether he was being a little too "liberal with his facts".&nbsp;

Rahul spoke in Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh today on the first anniversary of the killing of seven farmers by police. The farmers had been agitating for higher remuneration for their crops.&nbsp;

Rahul promised his audience that all farm loans would be waived should the Congress be voted into power in Madhya Pradesh in the forthcoming assembly elections.&nbsp;

He also met the families of the farmers shot dead last year.&nbsp;

Mandsaur killings anniversary: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-waive-farm-loans-in-10-days-if-voted-to-power-in-madhya-pradesh--rahul-gandhi-142593">Rahul promises farm loans waiver, meets families of the dead</a>

 
This is what Jaitley had to say about his speech:&nbsp;

1). He (Rahul Gandhi) accused Prime Minister Modi of waiving of the loans of Rs.2.5 lakh crores of the 15 top industrialists in the country. - Factually this is completely false.&nbsp; 
The Government has not waived of a single rupee due from any industrialist. The facts are to the contrary. Those who owed money to the banks and other creditors have been declared insolvent and removed from their companies by IBC enacted by Prime Minister Modi’s Government. These loans were given largely during the UPA Government.&nbsp;

2). Loans are not available to the kisans but only to the industrialists- Factually false.&nbsp; 
This was during the UPA Government, particularly UPA II, when bulk of amount constitute the NPA’s today were given by the banking system during the period 2008-14. From 2014 we have been systematically taking one step after the other to recover these monies back.&nbsp;

3). Prime Minister has given Rs.35000 crores each to two diamond jewellers who have now escaped out of country – factually false. 
This banking fraud started in the year 2011 when the UPA II was in power. It was only detected during the NDA period.&nbsp;

4). If the Congress comes to power mobile phones, which are made in China, will now be manufactured in India - a case of inadequate knowledge.&nbsp; 
In the year 2014 when UPA went out of power, there were only two mobile phone manufacturing units in India. In 2018, with the result of our electronics policy and the incentives in a four year period, this has increased to 120 units with an investment of Rs.1,32,000 crores.&nbsp;

5). Jobs not being created in India 
The latest GDP date has reemphasised India as the fastest growing economy in the world. There is a double digit growth in construction, expansion in manufacturing, an increased capital formation which indicates investment increase, large investment in physical infrastructure and increased investment in rural India. All these are job creating sectors.&nbsp;

6). We will connect farms and villages to the cities – His impression is of the Digvijay Singh era in Madhya Pradesh. 
Madhya Pradesh had the worst set of roads in India when the Congress was voted out in 2003. Poor quality roads was one key reason for ousting the Congress. Thanks to Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Prime Minister Modi who during the NDA Government, has tripled the investment in rural roads, in comparison to what the UPA spent, there is a revolution in the Gram Sadak Yojana.

Jaitley asked whether Rahul was being 'inadequately briefed' or whether he was being a little too 'liberal with his facts'. He then went on to fact-check Rahul's speech

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has slammed — and fact-checked — the speech Rahul Gandhi's gave at Mandsaur today. "How much does he know? When will he know?" Jaitley said in a Facebook post. He then went on to ask whether Rahul was being "inadequately briefed" or whether he was being a little too "liberal with his facts". Rahul spoke in Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh today on the first anniversary of the killing of seven farmers by police. The farmers had been agitating for higher remuneration for their crops. Rahul promised his audience that all farm loans would be waived should the Congress be voted into power in Madhya Pradesh in the forthcoming assembly elections. He also met the families of the farmers shot dead last year. Mandsaur killings anniversary: Rahul promises farm loans waiver, meets families of the dead This is what Jaitley had to say about his speech: 1). He (Rahul Gandhi) accused Prime Minister Modi of waiving of the loans of Rs.2.5 lakh crores of the 15 top industrialists in the country. - Factually this is completely false. The Government has not waived of a single rupee due from any industrialist. The facts are to the contrary. Those who owed money to the banks and other creditors have been declared insolvent and removed from their companies by IBC enacted by Prime Minister Modi’s Government. These loans were given largely during the UPA Government. 2). Loans are not available to the kisans but only to the industrialists- Factually false. This was during the UPA Government, particularly UPA II, when bulk of amount constitute the NPA’s today were given by the banking system during the period 2008-14. From 2014 we have been systematically taking one step after the other to recover these monies back. 3). Prime Minister has given Rs.35000 crores each to two diamond jewellers who have now escaped out of country – factually false. This banking fraud started in the year 2011 when the UPA II was in power. It was only detected during the NDA period. 4). If the Congress comes to power mobile phones, which are made in China, will now be manufactured in India - a case of inadequate knowledge. In the year 2014 when UPA went out of power, there were only two mobile phone manufacturing units in India. In 2018, with the result of our electronics policy and the incentives in a four year period, this has increased to 120 units with an investment of Rs.1,32,000 crores. 5). Jobs not being created in India The latest GDP date has reemphasised India as the fastest growing economy in the world. There is a double digit growth in construction, expansion in manufacturing, an increased capital formation which indicates investment increase, large investment in physical infrastructure and increased investment in rural India. All these are job creating sectors. 6). We will connect farms and villages to the cities – His impression is of the Digvijay Singh era in Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh had the worst set of roads in India when the Congress was voted out in 2003. Poor quality roads was one key reason for ousting the Congress. Thanks to Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Prime Minister Modi who during the NDA Government, has tripled the investment in rural roads, in comparison to what the UPA spent, there is a revolution in the Gram Sadak Yojana.

'How much does he know?' Jaitley slams Rahul Gandhi's Mandsaur speech

The Congress today hit back at Union minister Arun Jaitley over his jibe at Rahul Gandhi, alleging that arrogance of the BJP has touched its zenith as it turned "blind" to farm distress.

Congress communications in-charge Randeep Surjewala accused the Modi government of writing off loans worth Rs 2.41 lakh crore of a handful of crony friends citing a reply given in Parliament by the finance ministry on April 3.

"Loot and scoot had become a norm with scamsters fleeing the country after decamping with public money, he claimed in statement.

"How much does Arun Jaitley know? Has arrogance of power reached such a zenith where the BJP is blind to farmers' distress'? How are empty-worded blogs an answer to betrayal of farmers by the Modi government?" he asked.

Attacking Gandhi for his speech in Madhya Pradesh today, Jaitley wondered 'how much does he know? When will he know?'

On the Congress chief's accusation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi waived the loans of 15 top industrialists, Jaitley said this was factually and completely false.&nbsp;

The banking fraud started in 2011 when the UPA II was in power and it was only detected during the NDA period, he said in a Facebook post in response to Gandhi's speech in Mandsaur.

In his statement, Surjewala reminded the Union minister of former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's words that "facts are facts, and will not disappear on account of your likes".

He said contrary to Jaitley's "lies", the government was actually the 'NPA sarkar' and alleged that the gross non-performing assets have gone up from over Rs 2.51 lakh crore in March 2014 to more than Rs 8.31 lakh crore in December 2017, a whopping rise of 230 per cent as per an April 6 reply in Parliament.

"Fleece the banks and fly away to foreign lands are the facility for fraudsters under the Modi Government's watch. Perhaps, Arun Jaitley forgets the recent bank loot scams worth over Rs 61,036 crore," he alleged.

The Congress leader said over 130 farmers organisations were protesting across India through an unprecedented rural bandh and rural distress, agricultural indebtedness, farmer suicides and distress sale of crops much below MSP was the new order.

"Arun Jaitley, Union minister without portfolio, with zero knowledge of agriculture is giving ?gyan' (wisdom) to the nation again today, with his usual travesty of facts and trivialization of farmers' issues," he alleged.

Surjewala also alleged that ?Make in India' has become an empty slogan of the government and the BJP and its 'minister without portfolio' forgot that industrial growth has declined from 7.4 per cent in 2016 to 4.45 per cent in 2018.&nbsp;

He alleged that between 2014 and 2018, India's revenue from exports was zero.

"Arun Jaitley waxes eloquent about jobs. The BJP promised two crore jobs per year, but the stark reality that it has only betrayed our youth. The Modi government created only 4.16 lakh jobs in 2016-17 and 77 per cent of Indian workers will have vulnerable employment by 2019 as per ILO.

"Let us not forget that there is 'lowest-ever' agriculture growth under the Modi government - 1.9 per cent (2014-18) as compared to 4.2 per cent under Congress (2004-14)

"The prime minister's promise of MSP equal to cost plus 50 per cent profit for farmers is a white lie. Rural wage growth has dipped from 38 per cent in 2014 to zero per cent in 2018 (RBI report). Tragically, 35 farmers are driven to suicide every 24 hours (NCRB data)," he said.

He said sugarcane arrears surge to over Rs 20,000 crore as an "insensitive" government "floundered".

The PM Fasal Bima Yojana benefited insurance companies, not farmers and companies earned a profit of Rs 14,828 crore but farmers got paid only Rs 5,650 crore, he claimed.

The Congress leader alleged that there was 'double jeopardy' for farmers as agriculture exports declined by USD 9.4 billion and agriculture imports rose by USD 10.06 billion.&nbsp;

Attacking Gandhi for his speech in Madhya Pradesh today, Jaitley wondered 'how much does he know? When will he know?'

The Congress today hit back at Union minister Arun Jaitley over his jibe at Rahul Gandhi, alleging that arrogance of the BJP has touched its zenith as it turned "blind" to farm distress. Congress communications in-charge Randeep Surjewala accused the Modi government of writing off loans worth Rs 2.41 lakh crore of a handful of crony friends citing a reply given in Parliament by the finance ministry on April 3. "Loot and scoot had become a norm with scamsters fleeing the country after decamping with public money, he claimed in statement. "How much does Arun Jaitley know? Has arrogance of power reached such a zenith where the BJP is blind to farmers' distress'? How are empty-worded blogs an answer to betrayal of farmers by the Modi government?" he asked. Attacking Gandhi for his speech in Madhya Pradesh today, Jaitley wondered 'how much does he know? When will he know?' On the Congress chief's accusation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi waived the loans of 15 top industrialists, Jaitley said this was factually and completely false. The banking fraud started in 2011 when the UPA II was in power and it was only detected during the NDA period, he said in a Facebook post in response to Gandhi's speech in Mandsaur. In his statement, Surjewala reminded the Union minister of former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru's words that "facts are facts, and will not disappear on account of your likes". He said contrary to Jaitley's "lies", the government was actually the 'NPA sarkar' and alleged that the gross non-performing assets have gone up from over Rs 2.51 lakh crore in March 2014 to more than Rs 8.31 lakh crore in December 2017, a whopping rise of 230 per cent as per an April 6 reply in Parliament. "Fleece the banks and fly away to foreign lands are the facility for fraudsters under the Modi Government's watch. Perhaps, Arun Jaitley forgets the recent bank loot scams worth over Rs 61,036 crore," he alleged. The Congress leader said over 130 farmers organisations were protesting across India through an unprecedented rural bandh and rural distress, agricultural indebtedness, farmer suicides and distress sale of crops much below MSP was the new order. "Arun Jaitley, Union minister without portfolio, with zero knowledge of agriculture is giving ?gyan' (wisdom) to the nation again today, with his usual travesty of facts and trivialization of farmers' issues," he alleged. Surjewala also alleged that ?Make in India' has become an empty slogan of the government and the BJP and its 'minister without portfolio' forgot that industrial growth has declined from 7.4 per cent in 2016 to 4.45 per cent in 2018. He alleged that between 2014 and 2018, India's revenue from exports was zero. "Arun Jaitley waxes eloquent about jobs. The BJP promised two crore jobs per year, but the stark reality that it has only betrayed our youth. The Modi government created only 4.16 lakh jobs in 2016-17 and 77 per cent of Indian workers will have vulnerable employment by 2019 as per ILO. "Let us not forget that there is 'lowest-ever' agriculture growth under the Modi government - 1.9 per cent (2014-18) as compared to 4.2 per cent under Congress (2004-14) "The prime minister's promise of MSP equal to cost plus 50 per cent profit for farmers is a white lie. Rural wage growth has dipped from 38 per cent in 2014 to zero per cent in 2018 (RBI report). Tragically, 35 farmers are driven to suicide every 24 hours (NCRB data)," he said. He said sugarcane arrears surge to over Rs 20,000 crore as an "insensitive" government "floundered". The PM Fasal Bima Yojana benefited insurance companies, not farmers and companies earned a profit of Rs 14,828 crore but farmers got paid only Rs 5,650 crore, he claimed. The Congress leader alleged that there was 'double jeopardy' for farmers as agriculture exports declined by USD 9.4 billion and agriculture imports rose by USD 10.06 billion.

Congress attacks Arun Jaitley over jibe at Rahul Gandhi

Union Minister Arun Jaitley held a meeting with the officials of Finance Ministry on Monday after he returned home post&nbsp;successful&nbsp;kidney transplant surgery.

The meeting which lasted for around half an hour was attended by Finance Secretary Hasmukh Adhia, Department of Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg and Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian.

In the meeting, the officials briefed Jaitley on various issues related to the Ministry.

A senior official told ANI on the condition of anonymity, "The meeting was held today in the evening through Video Conferencing. It was a stock-taking exercise by Arun Jaitley as he was admitted in AIIMS for past three weeks. Currently, he is under the supervision of doctors and is in a controlled environment".

Jaitley, who had undergone a kidney transplant last month, announced his well being on Twitter today.

He took to Twitter to thank the doctors, nurses and paramedics who assisted him during his treatment.

His twitter read, "Delighted to be back at Home. My gratitude to the Doctors, Nursing officers and the paramedics who looked after me for over the past three weeks. I wish to thank all well-wishers, colleagues and friends who were very concerned and continued to wish me for my recovery".

Jaitley underwent a successful kidney transplant at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on May 14.

Before the treatment, the 65-year-old minister was put on a dialysis for one month.

In September 2014, Jaitley underwent a bariatric surgery to treat weight gain because of a long-standing diabetic condition. The surgery was first performed at Max Hospital, but he had to be later shifted to AIIMS because of complications.

Jaitley had a heart surgery several years ago.

 
(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Jaitley underwent a successful kidney transplant at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on May 14

Union Minister Arun Jaitley held a meeting with the officials of Finance Ministry on Monday after he returned home post successful kidney transplant surgery. The meeting which lasted for around half an hour was attended by Finance Secretary Hasmukh Adhia, Department of Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg and Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian. In the meeting, the officials briefed Jaitley on various issues related to the Ministry. A senior official told ANI on the condition of anonymity, "The meeting was held today in the evening through Video Conferencing. It was a stock-taking exercise by Arun Jaitley as he was admitted in AIIMS for past three weeks. Currently, he is under the supervision of doctors and is in a controlled environment". Jaitley, who had undergone a kidney transplant last month, announced his well being on Twitter today. He took to Twitter to thank the doctors, nurses and paramedics who assisted him during his treatment. His twitter read, "Delighted to be back at Home. My gratitude to the Doctors, Nursing officers and the paramedics who looked after me for over the past three weeks. I wish to thank all well-wishers, colleagues and friends who were very concerned and continued to wish me for my recovery". Jaitley underwent a successful kidney transplant at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on May 14. Before the treatment, the 65-year-old minister was put on a dialysis for one month. In September 2014, Jaitley underwent a bariatric surgery to treat weight gain because of a long-standing diabetic condition. The surgery was first performed at Max Hospital, but he had to be later shifted to AIIMS because of complications. Jaitley had a heart surgery several years ago. (With inputs from PTI)

Arun Jaitley returns after kidney transplant, holds meeting with Finance Ministry

The Delhi High Court and Arun Jaitley today accepted the apology tendered by dissident Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kumar Vishwas for levelling allegations against the finance minister.

In a relief to the poet-turned politician, Jaitley's lawyer Manik Dogra said, "We have accepted it (apology)." 
 
Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw noted that Vishwas, in a letter submitted in the court today, has without any reservation, unequivocally withdrawn all the allegations levelled against the BJP leader.

The court disposed of the suit in which Vishwas was the only one against whom the defamation suit remained after Arvind Kejriwal and four other AAP leaders -- Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Ashutosh and Deepak Bajpai-- had tendered unequivocal apology to Arun Jaitley in the Rs 10 crore defamation suit filed against them by the union minister.

Vishwas, through his advocate Amit Yadav, tendered sincere apology to Jaitley and his family members for causing any harm to them.

Senior advocate Rajiv Nayar and advocate Manik Dogra, who appeared for Jaitley, said they have accepted Vishwas's apology.

The court said, "apology has been accepted by the plaintiff and this court and decree is passed in favour of Arun Jaitley and against Kumar Vishwas in terms of letter handed over today..."

Vishwas had earlier told the court that before making any statement or apology to Jaitley, he wanted to know if Kejriwal lied when he said his allegations against the union minister were based on documents.

The dissident AAP leader had told the court that he needed more time to decide what statement he will make so that the suit can be disposed of as he was personally not interested in taking the matter forward.&nbsp;

Jaitley had lodged the Rs 10 crore defamation suit in December 2015 against Kejriwal and the five AAP leaders after they had alleged financial irregularities in the Delhi and District Cricket Association when the union minister was its president. The BJP leader had denied all the allegations.&nbsp;

Arun Jaitley had lodged the Rs 10 crore defamation suit in December 2015 against Kejriwal and the five AAP leaders after they had alleged financial irregularities in the Delhi and District Cricket Association when the finance minister was its president

The Delhi High Court and Arun Jaitley today accepted the apology tendered by dissident Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kumar Vishwas for levelling allegations against the finance minister. In a relief to the poet-turned politician, Jaitley's lawyer Manik Dogra said, "We have accepted it (apology)." Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw noted that Vishwas, in a letter submitted in the court today, has without any reservation, unequivocally withdrawn all the allegations levelled against the BJP leader. The court disposed of the suit in which Vishwas was the only one against whom the defamation suit remained after Arvind Kejriwal and four other AAP leaders -- Raghav Chadha, Sanjay Singh, Ashutosh and Deepak Bajpai-- had tendered unequivocal apology to Arun Jaitley in the Rs 10 crore defamation suit filed against them by the union minister. Vishwas, through his advocate Amit Yadav, tendered sincere apology to Jaitley and his family members for causing any harm to them. Senior advocate Rajiv Nayar and advocate Manik Dogra, who appeared for Jaitley, said they have accepted Vishwas's apology. The court said, "apology has been accepted by the plaintiff and this court and decree is passed in favour of Arun Jaitley and against Kumar Vishwas in terms of letter handed over today..." Vishwas had earlier told the court that before making any statement or apology to Jaitley, he wanted to know if Kejriwal lied when he said his allegations against the union minister were based on documents. The dissident AAP leader had told the court that he needed more time to decide what statement he will make so that the suit can be disposed of as he was personally not interested in taking the matter forward. Jaitley had lodged the Rs 10 crore defamation suit in December 2015 against Kejriwal and the five AAP leaders after they had alleged financial irregularities in the Delhi and District Cricket Association when the union minister was its president. The BJP leader had denied all the allegations.

Arun Jaitley accepts  Kumar Vishwas' apology in defamation case

Union Minister Arun Jaitley today said aspirational India will reject the "anarchist" formation of "disparate political parties" which are promising to come together to fight the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the next general elections.

He said the political agenda for the debate this year appropriately will be Prime Minister Narendra Modi versus an "anarchist combination" of such parties.

"A group of disparate political parties are promising to come together. Some of their leaders are temperamental, the others occasionally change ideological positions. With many of them, such as TMC, DMK, TDP, BSP and the JD(S), the BJP has had an opportunity to share power. They frequently change political positions," Jaitley wrote in a Facebook post.

Aspirational societies with vibrant democracies do not invite anarchy, the minister said, adding that a strong nation and the requirements of good governance abhor anarchy.

Several opposition parties including the Congress are trying to forge an alliance to take on the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Prime Minister Modi has given 'scam-free' government and his fifth year will focus on consolidation of policies and programmes, he wrote.

Jaitley, who had a renal transplant earlier this month and has yesterday been shifted out of ICU, said the country's mood has transformed from despair to hope and aspirations in last four years.

"Good governance and good economics have been blended with good politics. The result of this has been that the BJP is more confident, its geographical base has become much bigger, its social base has expanded and its winnability has hugely increased," he said.

Attacking Congress, Jaitley said the party "is in desperation without the perks of office".

"From the dominant party of Indian politics, it is moving towards the 'fringe', its political positions are not of a mainstream party but one usually adopted by 'fringe' organisations. Fringe organisations can never hope to come in power," the minister's Facebook post noted.

"Its best hope lies in becoming a supporter of regional political parties. State level regional political parties have realised that the marginalised Congress can at best be either a junior partner or a marginal supporter," he said.

 
&nbsp;

Several opposition parties including the Congress are trying to forge an alliance to take on the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Union Minister Arun Jaitley today said aspirational India will reject the "anarchist" formation of "disparate political parties" which are promising to come together to fight the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the next general elections. He said the political agenda for the debate this year appropriately will be Prime Minister Narendra Modi versus an "anarchist combination" of such parties. "A group of disparate political parties are promising to come together. Some of their leaders are temperamental, the others occasionally change ideological positions. With many of them, such as TMC, DMK, TDP, BSP and the JD(S), the BJP has had an opportunity to share power. They frequently change political positions," Jaitley wrote in a Facebook post. Aspirational societies with vibrant democracies do not invite anarchy, the minister said, adding that a strong nation and the requirements of good governance abhor anarchy. Several opposition parties including the Congress are trying to forge an alliance to take on the BJP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Prime Minister Modi has given 'scam-free' government and his fifth year will focus on consolidation of policies and programmes, he wrote. Jaitley, who had a renal transplant earlier this month and has yesterday been shifted out of ICU, said the country's mood has transformed from despair to hope and aspirations in last four years. "Good governance and good economics have been blended with good politics. The result of this has been that the BJP is more confident, its geographical base has become much bigger, its social base has expanded and its winnability has hugely increased," he said. Attacking Congress, Jaitley said the party "is in desperation without the perks of office". "From the dominant party of Indian politics, it is moving towards the 'fringe', its political positions are not of a mainstream party but one usually adopted by 'fringe' organisations. Fringe organisations can never hope to come in power," the minister's Facebook post noted. "Its best hope lies in becoming a supporter of regional political parties. State level regional political parties have realised that the marginalised Congress can at best be either a junior partner or a marginal supporter," he said.

Political debate to focus on Modi versus 'anarchist combination': Jaitley

arun-jaitley

Arun Jaitley, News on Arun Jaitley, stories on Arun Jaitley, articles on Arun Jaitley, Arun Jaitley stories at Wion, Arun Jaitley news, Arun Jaitley latest news

arun jaitley

GST is a 'monumental reform', hit growth for only 2 quarters: Jaitley

Government trying to capture RBI ahead of Lok Sabha polls: P Chidambaram

Demonetisation led to formalisation of economy, expanded tax base: Arun Jaitley

India under UPA most difficult to do business with, says Arun Jaitley

Kashmiri people should stand with Government, not with separatists in fight against terrorism: Arun Jaitley

Alok Verma was collecting documents related to Rafale 'scam': Rahul Gandhi

Government action intended to restore credibility of CBI: Arun Jaitley

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's daughter was on Mehul Choksi's 'payroll': Rahul Gandhi

India needs strong, decisive government to take swift decision, maintain high growth: Jaitley

Fuel prices rise yet again, petrol sells at Rs 88.12 in Mumbai

Fuel prices continue to rise, petrol sells at Rs 87.94 a litre in Mumbai

PM Modi chairs high-level meeting on economy, finance & oil ministers attend

SC ruling on 377: Disagree with reasoning that sexuality is part of free speech, says Arun Jaitley

Some more steps likely to narrow CAD, says Arun Jaitley

Centre has decided to cut fuel prices by Rs 2.50 with immediate effect: Jaitley

Government determined to contain IL&FS crisis so that there is no adverse impact: Jaitley

News brief: Big stories of the day

Arun Jaitley defends loan write-offs; says they don't lead to waiver

Arun Jaitley calls Congress 'national saboteur'

'It is a historic order', says Jaitley after Supreme Court's Aadhaar verdict

Finance Minister Jaitley to hold meeting over bank performance, housing loans today

News brief: Big stories of the day

Rahul Gandhi calls for JPC to establish 'uncorrupted' truth in Rafale deal

Jaitley calls Rahul 'Clown Prince', Congress hits back with 'court jester'

Jaitley attacks Rahul Gandhi in blog post; says ignorance with 'anti-Modism' is common thread

Government committed to support all state-run banks says, Piyush Goyal