A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nyay-will-revive-economy-create-jobs-says-rahul-211805">Nyuntam Aay Yojana</a>` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto.

Under the NYAY scheme or the minimum income guarantee scheme, Congress has promised that it will give Rs 72,000 per year to 20 per cent of India`s poorest if the party emerged victorious in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.

The petitioners have contended that such a poll promise amounted to bribery and that it violated the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

The court has issued a notice to the Congress party seeking a reply within 10 days.

The next hearing has been scheduled for May 13.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi had said that the NYAY scheme would be a "surgical strike" against poverty and that it would not harm the country`s economy.&nbsp;

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `Nyuntam Aay Yojana` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto.

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `Nyuntam Aay Yojana` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto. Under the NYAY scheme or the minimum income guarantee scheme, Congress has promised that it will give Rs 72,000 per year to 20 per cent of India`s poorest if the party emerged victorious in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. The petitioners have contended that such a poll promise amounted to bribery and that it violated the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The court has issued a notice to the Congress party seeking a reply within 10 days. The next hearing has been scheduled for May 13. Congress president Rahul Gandhi had said that the NYAY scheme would be a "surgical strike" against poverty and that it would not harm the country`s economy.

Petition filed in Allahabad High Court against Congress' NYAY scheme

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/middle-class-has-always-suffered-under-congress-pm-modi-in-tripura-208537">Congress</a>, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India.

Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to.

"Congress is helping spread the propaganda of Pakistan across the world... Congress' hypocrisy document (manifesto) seems to blow the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India," he said.

Article 370 grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state.

"The Congress stands with those who want separate prime ministers for India and Jammu and Kashmir," Modi said.

The prime minister slammed the Rahul Gandhi-led party for having failed to bring any development in the north east, including in Manipur, despite years of its rule in the region.

"The BJP is working to correct the damages inflicted by the Congress towards the north east... The region is finally coming into the mainstream," Modi said.

The central government has strengthened the expansion of the all-women market in the state, and generated employment for the youth, the PM said.

The Congress did not fulfil its pre-election promise to make the region a manufacturing hub, Modi said, adding, the grand old party is actually an "expert in manufacturing lies and false assurances".

Hailing Manipur for producing a number of talented sports-persons over the years, he said the BJP government has decided to make the state a sports hub and set up a national sports university.

Acknowledging the state's football prowess, the prime minister took a dig at the Congress, saying, "The party has made a foul, and just as in football, it should be shown a red card."

Polling for the two Lok Sabha seats in Manipur will be held on April 11 and April 18.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the Congress, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India. Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday alleged that the Congress, through its manifesto, is blowing the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India. Addressing a rally at Hapta Kangjeibung ground here, Modi also noted that Congress had claimed no one could tamper with Article 370 of the Constitution, an assertion which Pakistan agreed to. "Congress is helping spread the propaganda of Pakistan across the world... Congress' hypocrisy document (manifesto) seems to blow the trumpet of Pakistan more than that of India," he said. Article 370 grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir and limits Parliament's power to make laws concerning the state. "The Congress stands with those who want separate prime ministers for India and Jammu and Kashmir," Modi said. The prime minister slammed the Rahul Gandhi-led party for having failed to bring any development in the north east, including in Manipur, despite years of its rule in the region. "The BJP is working to correct the damages inflicted by the Congress towards the north east... The region is finally coming into the mainstream," Modi said. The central government has strengthened the expansion of the all-women market in the state, and generated employment for the youth, the PM said. The Congress did not fulfil its pre-election promise to make the region a manufacturing hub, Modi said, adding, the grand old party is actually an "expert in manufacturing lies and false assurances". Hailing Manipur for producing a number of talented sports-persons over the years, he said the BJP government has decided to make the state a sports hub and set up a national sports university. Acknowledging the state's football prowess, the prime minister took a dig at the Congress, saying, "The party has made a foul, and just as in football, it should be shown a red card." Polling for the two Lok Sabha seats in Manipur will be held on April 11 and April 18.

Congress blowing Pakistan's trumpet more than India's: Modi in Manipur

The BJP’s vision document for the 2019 elections is a cocktail of the old and the new, as well as an assertion of certain narratives related to national security that have resonated with the people in recent months. The old has, among other things, its commitment to the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya in a lawful and harmonious manner. The new has a roadmap to make India a five-trillion-dollar economy, a massive push to infrastructure, further booster shots for the Make in India campaign, employment generation ideas and a more simplified Goods and Services Tax regime. But it is the party’s position on national security which stands out, primarily because both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his senior party colleagues have made it a key election issue. The other reason is that the BJP’s commitment in the 'Sankalp Patra' on this subject contrasts sharply with that of the Congress’s promise in its manifesto.&nbsp;

The BJP’s stand on Article 370 and Article 35A, which are exclusive to Jammu &amp; Kashmir, have been known for long. But the underlining of its commitment to scrap the two provisions becomes especially important in an election season. The party seems to have come around to the view that one of the ways to effectively tackle the problems that the state keeps throwing up at regular intervals is to divest it of the special provisions which were supposed to have helped integrate it better with the rest of India. &nbsp;

The other reason for the BJP to give the issue prominence in its vision document was to put the Congress on the defensive. The Congress had in its manifesto promised to retain Article 370. It’s position on Article 35A too is that of maintaining the status quo. However, the popular perception nationwide seems to be veering towards a rethink on these provisions, and that fits well with the BJP’s overall nationalist agenda. &nbsp;

The BJP would be pleased with the response after it set the cat among the pigeons. Both the state’s leading parties, the National Conference and the Peoples Democratic Party have reacted strongly against the promise and warned that any tinkering with the two provisions would result in India losing hold over Kashmir. This is playing straight into the BJP’s hand since the party has for long been maintaining that these parties promote soft separatism and are not just reluctant to act against separatists but also back them when the Centre acts against them. There is more than a grain of truth in the BJP’s allegation, and taking the matter to the people helps the party burnish its nationalist credentials.&nbsp;

One may wonder if such strong statements do not harm the BJP’s prospects in Kashmir valley. The first fact is that the BJP has little electoral prospects in that region. The second fact is that there is a constituency beyond Kashmir in the state — Jammu, for instance, where the BJP has a strong presence and which would be more than satisfied with the party’s position on the issue. But even more importantly, there is the larger constituency beyond the state itself which aligns with the BJP’s thoughts on the matter and can help the party garner more seats nationally.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 'Sankalp Patra' also promises to strengthen the country’s Armed Forces, have zero tolerance to terror, and continue to give a free hand to the forces to deal with terror. Read alongside the Congress manifesto which has spoken about reviewing the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, the BJP’s vision document virtually endorses AFSPA and leaves the issue to be decided in consultation with the Armed Forces. &nbsp;

In confirmation of its belligerent stand on anti-national activities, the vision document does not, as the Congress manifesto does, speak of scrapping the sedition law. Here it’s important to note that the vision document commits the party to “taking necessary and effective steps against Left-wing extremism to eliminate this menace in the next five years”. The connection cannot be missed, given that many Maoist sympathisers have been in recent months facing the heat for their support to Left-wing extremism, and the cry for charges of sedition to be slapped against them have grown from Right-wing elements.&nbsp;

The BJP’s aggressive stance, which has been reflected in the Sankalp Patra, should not surprise those who have been following the party’s election campaign. Led by Prime Minister Modi, it has made nationalism and national security, apart from development, the fulcrum of its poll narrative. The Congress has willy nilly extended a helping hand by its soft attitude, with senior Union Minister Arun Jaitely quipping that the BJP’s vision document had not been crafted by any 'tukde-tukde' group. The party clearly believes that it has the upper hand when it comes to keeping the focus on national security and nationalism.&nbsp;

&nbsp; (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The BJP’s vision document for the 2019 elections is a cocktail of the old and the new, as well as an assertion of certain narratives related to national security that have resonated with the people in recent months.

The BJP’s vision document for the 2019 elections is a cocktail of the old and the new, as well as an assertion of certain narratives related to national security that have resonated with the people in recent months. The old has, among other things, its commitment to the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya in a lawful and harmonious manner. The new has a roadmap to make India a five-trillion-dollar economy, a massive push to infrastructure, further booster shots for the Make in India campaign, employment generation ideas and a more simplified Goods and Services Tax regime. But it is the party’s position on national security which stands out, primarily because both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his senior party colleagues have made it a key election issue. The other reason is that the BJP’s commitment in the 'Sankalp Patra' on this subject contrasts sharply with that of the Congress’s promise in its manifesto. The BJP’s stand on Article 370 and Article 35A, which are exclusive to Jammu & Kashmir, have been known for long. But the underlining of its commitment to scrap the two provisions becomes especially important in an election season. The party seems to have come around to the view that one of the ways to effectively tackle the problems that the state keeps throwing up at regular intervals is to divest it of the special provisions which were supposed to have helped integrate it better with the rest of India. The other reason for the BJP to give the issue prominence in its vision document was to put the Congress on the defensive. The Congress had in its manifesto promised to retain Article 370. It’s position on Article 35A too is that of maintaining the status quo. However, the popular perception nationwide seems to be veering towards a rethink on these provisions, and that fits well with the BJP’s overall nationalist agenda. The BJP would be pleased with the response after it set the cat among the pigeons. Both the state’s leading parties, the National Conference and the Peoples Democratic Party have reacted strongly against the promise and warned that any tinkering with the two provisions would result in India losing hold over Kashmir. This is playing straight into the BJP’s hand since the party has for long been maintaining that these parties promote soft separatism and are not just reluctant to act against separatists but also back them when the Centre acts against them. There is more than a grain of truth in the BJP’s allegation, and taking the matter to the people helps the party burnish its nationalist credentials. One may wonder if such strong statements do not harm the BJP’s prospects in Kashmir valley. The first fact is that the BJP has little electoral prospects in that region. The second fact is that there is a constituency beyond Kashmir in the state — Jammu, for instance, where the BJP has a strong presence and which would be more than satisfied with the party’s position on the issue. But even more importantly, there is the larger constituency beyond the state itself which aligns with the BJP’s thoughts on the matter and can help the party garner more seats nationally. The 'Sankalp Patra' also promises to strengthen the country’s Armed Forces, have zero tolerance to terror, and continue to give a free hand to the forces to deal with terror. Read alongside the Congress manifesto which has spoken about reviewing the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, the BJP’s vision document virtually endorses AFSPA and leaves the issue to be decided in consultation with the Armed Forces. In confirmation of its belligerent stand on anti-national activities, the vision document does not, as the Congress manifesto does, speak of scrapping the sedition law. Here it’s important to note that the vision document commits the party to “taking necessary and effective steps against Left-wing extremism to eliminate this menace in the next five years”. The connection cannot be missed, given that many Maoist sympathisers have been in recent months facing the heat for their support to Left-wing extremism, and the cry for charges of sedition to be slapped against them have grown from Right-wing elements. The BJP’s aggressive stance, which has been reflected in the Sankalp Patra, should not surprise those who have been following the party’s election campaign. Led by Prime Minister Modi, it has made nationalism and national security, apart from development, the fulcrum of its poll narrative. The Congress has willy nilly extended a helping hand by its soft attitude, with senior Union Minister Arun Jaitely quipping that the BJP’s vision document had not been crafted by any 'tukde-tukde' group. The party clearly believes that it has the upper hand when it comes to keeping the focus on national security and nationalism. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

National security BJP's 'sankalp' as party manifesto vows to repeal Articles 370 & 35A, end left-wing extremism

BJP’s manifesto was nationalism unplugged. The manifesto reflected the core agenda of RSS, which has been promoting cultural nationalism since its inception. The coming of age could only happen during Narendra Modi’s tenure as he allowed the vision to be incorporated and propagated unapologetically during his tenure as the Prime Minister.

At the launch ceremony, speaker after speaker spoke about national unity and how BJP was committed to the idea of national renewal, tough security response and enhanced prestige abroad. This theme was visible after 2014 but very few understood the intent of BJP that it wanted to contest 2019 Lok Sabha elections on it.&nbsp;

If it would not have been the failure of BJP in Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, BJP would not have introduced direct subsidy to distressed farmers and neither state BJP governments would have waived electricity bills and loans taken by the farmer nor taken such a populist turn.

This particular event brought both BJP and Congress together barring the issue of nationalism. Both parties have committed themselves to a large welfare architecture which is going to trouble middle class even more. Both have become very loud in their commitment towards popular politics. For the PM to say Antyodaya is the philosophy reflects strong pro-poor sentiments. NYAY is also one such arrow from the quiver of populist politics. The only difference is that Congress manifesto is restrained when it comes to national security and nationalism-based politics and that of BJP is very aggressive and does not refrain from taking on strong regional sentiments of North East and Kashmir. It helps BJP in rest of India.

BJP’s manifesto looks more in tune with the India of 1970 under former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. A famous leader who taught a lesson to Pakistan but held the promise of keeping the nation together. She ran the country with an iron hand and the party was subservient to her. Her strength bordered on being dictatorial and ran a left-leaning economy. Congress, on the other hand, barring the model of a strong leader is also committing itself to running a left-leaning economy which would be high on welfare schemes.

Both BJP and Congress of today are a strong departure from the turn India took in 1991. Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh were reformers and committed to economic liberalisation. All three Prime Ministers fought the populist narrative that business is a bad word and capitalism cannot do good for the poor. Even if they failed in parts, they did not create a subsidy monster.

It was Sonia Gandhi who forced Manmohan Singh’s hand after 2008 that Congress started to reflect party sensibilities of the 1970s. Even Modi who started with a promise of reform and minimum governance gave in to the populism which continues to wreak Indian politics. Till today, there exists no consensus on land acquisition bill which continues to lie in cold storage after suit boot kee sarkar jibe.

The only differentiator which BJP has with Congress is on national security and aggressive politics against internal insurgencies and Pakistan. It is for this reason, BJP has made nationalism a pivotal issue against Congress.

Not only it blunts the charge of Congress that RSS never participated in the freedom struggle, but it also helps BJP bridge the caste politics. It is for this reason that Ram Temple, Article 370, 35 A, Pakistan and internal insurgencies have all come together as one issue.&nbsp;

Both manifestos claim that they have presented a competing vision of India but remain similar when it comes to promoting statism. The lines have also blurred on Hinduism. Both parties compete for the same space. BJP’s vision is hard nationalism laced with Hindutva married to a welfare state whereas Congress vision is that of soft Hindutva married to a vigorous welfare state. We will know only on May 23 as to which brand sold well.

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

BJP’s manifesto was nationalism unplugged. The manifesto reflected the core agenda of RSS, which has been promoting cultural nationalism since its inception. The coming of age could only happen during Narendra Modi’s tenure as he allowed the vision to be incorporated and propagated unapologetically during his tenure as the Prime Minister.

BJP’s manifesto was nationalism unplugged. The manifesto reflected the core agenda of RSS, which has been promoting cultural nationalism since its inception. The coming of age could only happen during Narendra Modi’s tenure as he allowed the vision to be incorporated and propagated unapologetically during his tenure as the Prime Minister. At the launch ceremony, speaker after speaker spoke about national unity and how BJP was committed to the idea of national renewal, tough security response and enhanced prestige abroad. This theme was visible after 2014 but very few understood the intent of BJP that it wanted to contest 2019 Lok Sabha elections on it. If it would not have been the failure of BJP in Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, BJP would not have introduced direct subsidy to distressed farmers and neither state BJP governments would have waived electricity bills and loans taken by the farmer nor taken such a populist turn. This particular event brought both BJP and Congress together barring the issue of nationalism. Both parties have committed themselves to a large welfare architecture which is going to trouble middle class even more. Both have become very loud in their commitment towards popular politics. For the PM to say Antyodaya is the philosophy reflects strong pro-poor sentiments. NYAY is also one such arrow from the quiver of populist politics. The only difference is that Congress manifesto is restrained when it comes to national security and nationalism-based politics and that of BJP is very aggressive and does not refrain from taking on strong regional sentiments of North East and Kashmir. It helps BJP in rest of India. BJP’s manifesto looks more in tune with the India of 1970 under former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. A famous leader who taught a lesson to Pakistan but held the promise of keeping the nation together. She ran the country with an iron hand and the party was subservient to her. Her strength bordered on being dictatorial and ran a left-leaning economy. Congress, on the other hand, barring the model of a strong leader is also committing itself to running a left-leaning economy which would be high on welfare schemes. Both BJP and Congress of today are a strong departure from the turn India took in 1991. Narasimha Rao, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh were reformers and committed to economic liberalisation. All three Prime Ministers fought the populist narrative that business is a bad word and capitalism cannot do good for the poor. Even if they failed in parts, they did not create a subsidy monster. It was Sonia Gandhi who forced Manmohan Singh’s hand after 2008 that Congress started to reflect party sensibilities of the 1970s. Even Modi who started with a promise of reform and minimum governance gave in to the populism which continues to wreak Indian politics. Till today, there exists no consensus on land acquisition bill which continues to lie in cold storage after suit boot kee sarkar jibe. The only differentiator which BJP has with Congress is on national security and aggressive politics against internal insurgencies and Pakistan. It is for this reason, BJP has made nationalism a pivotal issue against Congress. Not only it blunts the charge of Congress that RSS never participated in the freedom struggle, but it also helps BJP bridge the caste politics. It is for this reason that Ram Temple, Article 370, 35 A, Pakistan and internal insurgencies have all come together as one issue. Both manifestos claim that they have presented a competing vision of India but remain similar when it comes to promoting statism. The lines have also blurred on Hinduism. Both parties compete for the same space. BJP’s vision is hard nationalism laced with Hindutva married to a welfare state whereas Congress vision is that of soft Hindutva married to a vigorous welfare state. We will know only on May 23 as to which brand sold well. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: High on populism, both BJP and Congress manifestos compete for same space

The middle class has always suffered under Congress rule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Tripura on Sunday. Modi is on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/didi-supporting-those-who-want-two-prime-ministers-pm-modi-208494">having </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/didi-supporting-those-who-want-two-prime-ministers-pm-modi-208494">spoke</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/didi-supporting-those-who-want-two-prime-ministers-pm-modi-208494">n in Bengal earlier in the day</a>, and being scheduled to speak later in Manipur.&nbsp;

"The middle-class has always suffered under the Congress government, the party has said that more taxes should be levied on the middle class," Modi said on Sunday.&nbsp;

He also referred to the Congress's recently-released election manifesto which contains a large dose of what is referred to as "welfarism". Modi called it a "dhakosla patra" (hypocricy document).&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Congress has, among other things, said in its manifesto that it will invest 6% of GDP in health and education, and that it will strengthen government hospitals and provide high-quality healthcare access to the poor if voted to power.

The party has also promised to enact the Right to Healthcare Act and guarantee every citizen free diagnostics, out-patient care, free medicines and hospitalisation, through a network of public hospitals and enlisted private hospitals.&nbsp;

Then of course there is its NYAY (Nyuntam Aay Yojana) scheme which envisages the giving of Rs 72,000 a year to 20% or 5 crore of India's poorest families.&nbsp;

"Congress released their manifesto, their 'dhakosla patra' three days ago, not even once 'dhakosla patra' mentions middle class, such hatred towards middle class," Modi said.&nbsp;

"They think middle class has made Modi win and that's why they're adamant on punishing middle class," he added.&nbsp;

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PM Modi in Udaipur, Tripura: Congress released their manifesto, their 'dhakosla patra' 3 days ago,not even once 'dhakosla patra' mentions middle class,such hatred towards middle class.They think middle class has made Modi win &amp; that's why they're adamant on punishing middle class <a href="https://t.co/TnqVg7DIp3">pic.twitter.com/TnqVg7DIp3</a>
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Modi also added Sunday that "the Congress and the Left are working to oust Modi, even if that means they have to support the interests of Pakistan".&nbsp;

"The Congress and the Left are working together to oust Modi. They have stooped too low, singing paeans to Pakistan even when the NDA government was taking on the terrorists on the soil of the neighbouring country," Modi said.&nbsp;

"Am I not doing the right thing by giving a befitting reply to the enemies of the country?" he asked.

Modi meanwhile heaped praise on Chief Minister Biplab Deb, saying the state government had improved the law and order situation and developed infrastructure in only one year.

Election to two Lok Sabha seats in Tripura will be held on April 11 and 18.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The middle class has always suffered under Congress rule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Tripura on Sunday. Modi is on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs, having spoken in Bengal earlier in the day, and being scheduled to speak later in Manipur.

The middle class has always suffered under Congress rule, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Tripura on Sunday. Modi is on another one of his campaign blitzkriegs, having spoken in Bengal earlier in the day, and being scheduled to speak later in Manipur. "The middle-class has always suffered under the Congress government, the party has said that more taxes should be levied on the middle class," Modi said on Sunday. He also referred to the Congress's recently-released election manifesto which contains a large dose of what is referred to as "welfarism". Modi called it a "dhakosla patra" (hypocricy document). The Congress has, among other things, said in its manifesto that it will invest 6% of GDP in health and education, and that it will strengthen government hospitals and provide high-quality healthcare access to the poor if voted to power. The party has also promised to enact the Right to Healthcare Act and guarantee every citizen free diagnostics, out-patient care, free medicines and hospitalisation, through a network of public hospitals and enlisted private hospitals. Then of course there is its NYAY (Nyuntam Aay Yojana) scheme which envisages the giving of Rs 72,000 a year to 20% or 5 crore of India's poorest families. "Congress released their manifesto, their 'dhakosla patra' three days ago, not even once 'dhakosla patra' mentions middle class, such hatred towards middle class," Modi said. "They think middle class has made Modi win and that's why they're adamant on punishing middle class," he added. PM Modi in Udaipur, Tripura: Congress released their manifesto, their 'dhakosla patra' 3 days ago,not even once 'dhakosla patra' mentions middle class,such hatred towards middle class.They think middle class has made Modi win & that's why they're adamant on punishing middle class pic.twitter.com/TnqVg7DIp3 — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2019 × Modi also added Sunday that "the Congress and the Left are working to oust Modi, even if that means they have to support the interests of Pakistan". "The Congress and the Left are working together to oust Modi. They have stooped too low, singing paeans to Pakistan even when the NDA government was taking on the terrorists on the soil of the neighbouring country," Modi said. "Am I not doing the right thing by giving a befitting reply to the enemies of the country?" he asked. Modi meanwhile heaped praise on Chief Minister Biplab Deb, saying the state government had improved the law and order situation and developed infrastructure in only one year. Election to two Lok Sabha seats in Tripura will be held on April 11 and 18. (With inputs from PTI)

Middle class has always suffered under Congress rule: PM Modi in Tripura

Congress releases party manifesto for 2019 Lok Sabha polls

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Sonia Gandhi, after going through the Congress manifesto, suggested that the photograph published on page nine could have been used as the cover picture. The photograph showed Congress president Rahul Gandhi sitting with a group of rural women wearing ghoonghats (veils).&nbsp;

 
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Saina Nehwal Wednesday registered a major upset as she lost to Thailand's Pornpawee Chochuwong 22-20, 15-21, 10-21 in the first round of the Malaysian Open.

Mamata Banerjee a 'speed breaker' in Bengal's development: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Wednesday that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had to go for the betterment of the state.

Mamata Banerjee a 'speed breaker' in Bengal's development: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Wednesday that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had to go for the betterment of the state. He said she was a "speed breaker" in the state's development. Modi was speaking at an election rally in Siliguri in West Bengal. "'Didi' (Mamata Banerjee) is a speed breaker in the path of West Bengal's development," Modi said. Sensex snaps 4-day winning streak, drops 180 points Breaking its four-day rising streak, the BSE Sensex dropped about 180 points Wednesday on profit booking and forecast of below-normal monsoon this year. Despite a strong rally in global equities, Indian market failed to sustain at lifetime highs led by losses in oil and gas, telecom, metal and healthcare stocks. After swinging nearly 450 points, the 30-share Sensex settled 179.53 points, or 0.46 per cent lower at 38,877.12. Former Pakistani IB chief, who reportedly helped Osama bin Laden, sworn in as minister Despite objections from the Opposition, Pakistan's former Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief Ijaz Shah, who reportedly helped Osama bin Laden in Pakistan, was sworn in as Minister for Parliamentary Affairs on Tuesday by President Arif Alvi here. This is the photograph Sonia Gandhi wanted on Congress manifesto cover Sonia Gandhi, after going through the Congress manifesto, suggested that the photograph published on page nine could have been used as the cover picture. The photograph showed Congress president Rahul Gandhi sitting with a group of rural women wearing ghoonghats (veils). Malaysia Open: Saina Nehwal knocked out in first round after losing to Thailand's Chochuwong Saina Nehwal Wednesday registered a major upset as she lost to Thailand's Pornpawee Chochuwong 22-20, 15-21, 10-21 in the first round of the Malaysian Open.

News brief: Big stories of the day

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday termed the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-exactly-does-the-congress-manifesto-promise-207487"> Congress manifesto</a> as a “showoff” and an “illusion” and said there was no credibility of the promises made by the party due to its past. Congress and BJP are no different when it comes to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-scrapping-afspa-sedition-law-to-farmer-budget-key-takeaways-from-congress-manifesto-207507"> non-fulfilment of promises</a>, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said in a tweet.

“Congress election manifesto appears to be a showoff and illusion like its previous promises. Due to continuous working against its promises, there is no credibility left for Congress among the people. Congress and BJP are no different in non-fulfilling promises,” she said in the tweet.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi Tuesday released his party’s manifesto for Lok Sabha polls, making jobs creation, addressing farm distress, bringing a single moderate rate of GST and giving Rs 72,000 per annum to poor families as the key focus if the party comes to power.

Claiming the BJP was afraid of the SP-BSP-RLD alliance, Mayawati said, “They (BJP) are so afraid that instead of talking of issues, they indulge in unnecessary casteist statements on the top leader of (alliance). No one should be provoked by them (statements) and give them befitting reply by showing good results”.

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday termed the Congress manifesto as a “showoff” and an “illusion” and said there was no credibility of the promises made by the party due to its past.

BSP supremo Mayawati Wednesday termed the Congress manifesto as a “showoff” and an “illusion” and said there was no credibility of the promises made by the party due to its past. Congress and BJP are no different when it comes to non-fulfilment of promises, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said in a tweet. “Congress election manifesto appears to be a showoff and illusion like its previous promises. Due to continuous working against its promises, there is no credibility left for Congress among the people. Congress and BJP are no different in non-fulfilling promises,” she said in the tweet. Congress President Rahul Gandhi Tuesday released his party’s manifesto for Lok Sabha polls, making jobs creation, addressing farm distress, bringing a single moderate rate of GST and giving Rs 72,000 per annum to poor families as the key focus if the party comes to power. Claiming the BJP was afraid of the SP-BSP-RLD alliance, Mayawati said, “They (BJP) are so afraid that instead of talking of issues, they indulge in unnecessary casteist statements on the top leader of (alliance). No one should be provoked by them (statements) and give them befitting reply by showing good results”.

Congress manifesto for 2019 polls an illusion, says Mayawati, reminds party of past record

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had an issue with the colour scheme used in the election manifesto released by the Congress on Tuesday. Mrs Gandhi, the former president of the party, spoke to Rajeev Gowda, the head of party's research department right before the function to release the manifesto at Congress headquarters in New Delhi. Sources told WION that she wanted lighter colours on the cover of the manifesto instead of the dark theme used currently.

Gowda, the convener of the manifesto committee of Congress, acknowledged the conversation with Mrs Gandhi. "We did not put leaders' face on the manifesto because we wanted to put people on the cover. This cover is a departure from past and decision was reached after many rounds of meeting which included senior leaders like Sam Pitroda," he said.

Sonia Gandhi, after going through the manifesto, suggested that photograph published on page nine of the party's manifesto could have been used as the cover picture. The photograph showed Congress president Rahul Gandhi sitting with a group of rural women with ghoonghat (veil).

<img alt="Rahul-Congress" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6571a73e-2586-463b-8474-aec4a2d3d050" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/sonia-rahul-congress-manifesto-ANI_0.jpg" />

(The photo which was used as the cover of Congress's manifesto)

Sources said that the said photo was dropped for the wrong messaging it would have done. "The picture looked very good in context of colour scheme but women were in ghooghat and we were against putting this photograph on the front page," sources told WION.

Gowda, meanwhile, clarified that no discussion took place about the size of Rahul Gandhi's photograph on the cover, nor there was any suggestion on part of Sonia Gandhi to add photographs of other leaders. When WION enquired about absence of Mahatma Gandhi on the cover, Gowda said, "It is not easy to use Gandhi's picture during election time for various reasons." Rajeev Gowda said that manifesto signals professionalism and show case a modern approach. When asked whether Sonia Gandhi enquired about absence of other leaders on manifesto, Gowda said, "No conversation of this nature took place." Though it is being said Sonia Gandhi also enquired about the absence of photographs of older leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru.

Former finance minister P Chidambaram is the chairman of the manifesto committee.

The much-talked-about manifesto was released by Rahul Gandhi with a tagline "Congress Will Deliver". The manifesto promised the Congress will create jobs, address farm distress, bring in a single moderate rate of GST and give Rs 72,000 per annum to poor families if it comes to power in the Lok Sabha polls.

In the 55-page document, the Congress also promised to come out with separate budget for farmers, fill up 22 lakh government vacancies, allocate six per cent of GDP to education, assured 50 more days of guaranteed jobs from current 100 under the MNREGA, boosting healthcare infrastructure and enhance safety of women.

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had an issue with the colour scheme used in the election manifesto released by the Congress on Tuesday. Mrs Gandhi, the former president of the party, spoke to Rajeev Gowda, the head of party's research department right before the function to release the manifesto at Congress headquarters in New Delhi.

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had an issue with the colour scheme used in the election manifesto released by the Congress on Tuesday. Mrs Gandhi, the former president of the party, spoke to Rajeev Gowda, the head of party's research department right before the function to release the manifesto at Congress headquarters in New Delhi. Sources told WION that she wanted lighter colours on the cover of the manifesto instead of the dark theme used currently. Gowda, the convener of the manifesto committee of Congress, acknowledged the conversation with Mrs Gandhi. "We did not put leaders' face on the manifesto because we wanted to put people on the cover. This cover is a departure from past and decision was reached after many rounds of meeting which included senior leaders like Sam Pitroda," he said. Sonia Gandhi, after going through the manifesto, suggested that photograph published on page nine of the party's manifesto could have been used as the cover picture. The photograph showed Congress president Rahul Gandhi sitting with a group of rural women with ghoonghat (veil). (The photo which was used as the cover of Congress's manifesto) Sources said that the said photo was dropped for the wrong messaging it would have done. "The picture looked very good in context of colour scheme but women were in ghooghat and we were against putting this photograph on the front page," sources told WION. Gowda, meanwhile, clarified that no discussion took place about the size of Rahul Gandhi's photograph on the cover, nor there was any suggestion on part of Sonia Gandhi to add photographs of other leaders. When WION enquired about absence of Mahatma Gandhi on the cover, Gowda said, "It is not easy to use Gandhi's picture during election time for various reasons." Rajeev Gowda said that manifesto signals professionalism and show case a modern approach. When asked whether Sonia Gandhi enquired about absence of other leaders on manifesto, Gowda said, "No conversation of this nature took place." Though it is being said Sonia Gandhi also enquired about the absence of photographs of older leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru. Former finance minister P Chidambaram is the chairman of the manifesto committee. The much-talked-about manifesto was released by Rahul Gandhi with a tagline "Congress Will Deliver". The manifesto promised the Congress will create jobs, address farm distress, bring in a single moderate rate of GST and give Rs 72,000 per annum to poor families if it comes to power in the Lok Sabha polls. In the 55-page document, the Congress also promised to come out with separate budget for farmers, fill up 22 lakh government vacancies, allocate six per cent of GDP to education, assured 50 more days of guaranteed jobs from current 100 under the MNREGA, boosting healthcare infrastructure and enhance safety of women.

This is the photograph Sonia Gandhi wanted on Congress manifesto cover

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Decoding Congress's manifesto

The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-exactly-does-the-congress-manifesto-promise-207487">Congress manifesto</a> were "positively dangerous".&nbsp;

The pushback — the Congress manifesto had been released earlier on Tuesday — was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who said the ideas were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India".&nbsp;

Jaitley was by and large referring to what the Congress manifesto has said about Kashmir.&nbsp;

The five big promises made by the Congress on Kashmir are:&nbsp;

1. There will be no change to Kashmir's constitutional status &nbsp;— which means there will be no tinkering with Article 370 and Article 35A&nbsp;

2. The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) will be reviewed

3. That fewer soldiers, and more policemen instead, will be stationed in Kashmir&nbsp;

4. That talks in Jammu and Kashmir will be held without preconditions

5. And finally, that three interlocutors will be assigned to hold talks in Kashmir&nbsp;

Jaitley said Tuesday that some of the points in the Congress manifesto seem like they had been drafted by the Congress president's (Rahul Gandhi) "friends in the tukde-tukde gang".&nbsp;

"They're against the unity of India," Jaitley said.&nbsp;

Jaitley added that the Congress had failed to mention the plight of Kashmiri pandits in its manifesto. And that the Congress "does not deserve even a single vote for promises like doing away with the sedition law". &nbsp;

The Congress's 55-page manifesto — it is called "Hum Nibhayenge" or "We Will Deliver" — focuses on addressing the issues of joblessness, farm distress, the&nbsp;safety of women and the boosting of the rural economy, with a stress on building a narrative around the "real issues" faced by the people.

The manifesto was released by party president Rahul Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and senior leader P Chidambaram among others.

For farmers, Congress promised to put them on the path from "Karz Maafi" (loan waiver), to "Karz Mukti" (freedom from loans).

This the party said would be done through remunerative pricing, lower input costs, and assured access to institutional credit, the party said, adding it will present a separate "Kisan Budget" every year, if voted to power.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iGr_HCnZ1UA" width="560"></iframe>

(Watch: WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma breaks down the Congress's election&nbsp;manifesto.)

Speaking on the occasion at Congress headquarters here, Gandhi said the Congress will allocate six per cent of GDP to education, strengthen government hospitals and give high-quality healthcare access to poor if voted to power.

The party also promised to enact the Right to Healthcare Act and guarantee every citizen free diagnostics, out-patient care, free medicines and hospitalisation, through a network of public hospitals and enlisted private hospitals.&nbsp;

The Congress's Nyay scheme meanwhile envisages the giving of Rs 72,000 a year to five crore EWS families each. And it said Tuesday that, if it came to power, it would bring in one single (moderate) GST rate.

&nbsp;Jaitley said the ideas were "unimplementable".&nbsp;

The Congress's P Chidambaram — he and Jairam Ramesh began their press conference even as Jaitley was still speaking — was quick to reply that "every word here (in the manifesto), we heard from the people of India".&nbsp;

"This is what the people want," Chidambaram said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the Congress manifesto were "positively dangerous". The pushback — the Congress manifesto had been released earlier on Tuesday — was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who said the ideas were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India".

The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the Congress manifesto were "positively dangerous". The pushback — the Congress manifesto had been released earlier on Tuesday — was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who said the ideas were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India". Jaitley was by and large referring to what the Congress manifesto has said about Kashmir. The five big promises made by the Congress on Kashmir are: 1. There will be no change to Kashmir's constitutional status — which means there will be no tinkering with Article 370 and Article 35A 2. The Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) will be reviewed 3. That fewer soldiers, and more policemen instead, will be stationed in Kashmir 4. That talks in Jammu and Kashmir will be held without preconditions 5. And finally, that three interlocutors will be assigned to hold talks in Kashmir Jaitley said Tuesday that some of the points in the Congress manifesto seem like they had been drafted by the Congress president's (Rahul Gandhi) "friends in the tukde-tukde gang". "They're against the unity of India," Jaitley said. Jaitley added that the Congress had failed to mention the plight of Kashmiri pandits in its manifesto. And that the Congress "does not deserve even a single vote for promises like doing away with the sedition law". The Congress's 55-page manifesto — it is called "Hum Nibhayenge" or "We Will Deliver" — focuses on addressing the issues of joblessness, farm distress, the safety of women and the boosting of the rural economy, with a stress on building a narrative around the "real issues" faced by the people. The manifesto was released by party president Rahul Gandhi, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and senior leader P Chidambaram among others. For farmers, Congress promised to put them on the path from "Karz Maafi" (loan waiver), to "Karz Mukti" (freedom from loans). This the party said would be done through remunerative pricing, lower input costs, and assured access to institutional credit, the party said, adding it will present a separate "Kisan Budget" every year, if voted to power. (Watch: WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma breaks down the Congress's election manifesto.) Speaking on the occasion at Congress headquarters here, Gandhi said the Congress will allocate six per cent of GDP to education, strengthen government hospitals and give high-quality healthcare access to poor if voted to power. The party also promised to enact the Right to Healthcare Act and guarantee every citizen free diagnostics, out-patient care, free medicines and hospitalisation, through a network of public hospitals and enlisted private hospitals. The Congress's Nyay scheme meanwhile envisages the giving of Rs 72,000 a year to five crore EWS families each. And it said Tuesday that, if it came to power, it would bring in one single (moderate) GST rate. Jaitley said the ideas were "unimplementable". The Congress's P Chidambaram — he and Jairam Ramesh began their press conference even as Jaitley was still speaking — was quick to reply that "every word here (in the manifesto), we heard from the people of India". "This is what the people want," Chidambaram said. (With inputs from PTI)

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Congress releases manifesto, BJP says some of its ideas 'positively dangerous'

The Congress released its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday, and the BJP was quick to say some of the ideas in it were "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-manifesto-some-ideas-positively-dangerous-says-bjp-207472">positively dangerous</a>".&nbsp;

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley went so far as to say some of the ideas in the manifesto were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India" and that they looked like the had been written by Congress president Rahul Gandhi's "friends in the tukde-tukde gang".&nbsp;

Jaitley was by and larger referring to what the Congress manifesto says about &nbsp;Kashmir — that there will be no tinkering with its constitutional status, that AFSPA will be reviewed, and that there will be fewer soldiers — and more policemen instead — deployed in the Valley.&nbsp;

This was expected. The BJP has been focusing tremendous amounts of attention on national security ever since the Pulwama suicide attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead and the consequent Indian Air Force air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakote.&nbsp;

But what else does the 55-page long Congress manifesto called "Hum Nibhayenge" or "We Will Deliver" say?&nbsp;

Here are the salient points:&nbsp;

The big Congress scheme of course is NYAY which envisages the giving of Rs 72,000 a year to 20% or 5 crore of India's poorest families.&nbsp;

On Tuesday the Congress said it would also present a separate budget for farmers. The Congress would like to keep the focus on rural distress and joblessness. It therefore announced Tuesday that it would fill up 22 lakh government vacancies.&nbsp;

The Congress Tuesday promised to put farmers on the path from "karz maafi" (loan waiver) to "karz mukti" (freedom from loans).

This the party said would be done through remunerative pricing, lower input costs, and assured access to institutional credit.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iGr_HCnZ1UA" width="560"></iframe>

(Watch: WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma breaks down the Congress's election&nbsp;manifesto.)

Rahul Gandhi, speaking at the release of the manifesto at Congress headquarters in Delhi, said his party would allocate 6 per cent of GDP to education, strengthening government hospitals and providing high-quality healthcare access to the poor if voted to power.

The party also promised to enact the Right to Healthcare Act and guarantee every citizen free diagnostics, out-patient care, free medicines and hospitalisation, through a network of public hospitals and enlisted private hospitals.&nbsp;

To the youth of India, the Congress pledged to make jobs its top priority, saying it would ensure 34 lakh jobs in the public sector by filling all 4 lakh central government vacancies before March 2020, persuading state governments to fill 20 lakh vacancies and creating an estimated 10 lakh new Seva Mitra positions in every gram panchayat and urban local bodies.

The party said it will also provide a fillip to the private sector by incentivising businesses for jobs creation and employing more women.

The Congress added Tuesday that would radically simplify the GST regime with a single moderate rate of tax, zero rating of exports, and an exemption for all essential goods and services.&nbsp;

It also promised panchayats and municipalities a share of GST revenues.

The Congress added that it would reverse the trend of declining defence spending under the NDA government, and increase it to meet the requirements of the armed forces.&nbsp;

On education, the Congress promised that school education from Class I to Class XII in all public schools would be compulsory and free.&nbsp;

And finally, the party promised to pass in the first session of the 17th Lok Sabha the Women's Reservation Bill reserving 33 percent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and the State Legislative Assemblies.&nbsp;

"Congress will also reserve 33 percent of all posts/vacancies in the Central government for women," the party's manifesto added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

The Congress released its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday, and the BJP was quick to say some of the ideas in it were "positively dangerous".

The Congress released its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday, and the BJP was quick to say some of the ideas in it were "positively dangerous". Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley went so far as to say some of the ideas in the manifesto were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India" and that they looked like the had been written by Congress president Rahul Gandhi's "friends in the tukde-tukde gang". Jaitley was by and larger referring to what the Congress manifesto says about Kashmir — that there will be no tinkering with its constitutional status, that AFSPA will be reviewed, and that there will be fewer soldiers — and more policemen instead — deployed in the Valley. This was expected. The BJP has been focusing tremendous amounts of attention on national security ever since the Pulwama suicide attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead and the consequent Indian Air Force air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakote. But what else does the 55-page long Congress manifesto called "Hum Nibhayenge" or "We Will Deliver" say? Here are the salient points: The big Congress scheme of course is NYAY which envisages the giving of Rs 72,000 a year to 20% or 5 crore of India's poorest families. On Tuesday the Congress said it would also present a separate budget for farmers. The Congress would like to keep the focus on rural distress and joblessness. It therefore announced Tuesday that it would fill up 22 lakh government vacancies. The Congress Tuesday promised to put farmers on the path from "karz maafi" (loan waiver) to "karz mukti" (freedom from loans). This the party said would be done through remunerative pricing, lower input costs, and assured access to institutional credit. (Watch: WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma breaks down the Congress's election manifesto.) Rahul Gandhi, speaking at the release of the manifesto at Congress headquarters in Delhi, said his party would allocate 6 per cent of GDP to education, strengthening government hospitals and providing high-quality healthcare access to the poor if voted to power. The party also promised to enact the Right to Healthcare Act and guarantee every citizen free diagnostics, out-patient care, free medicines and hospitalisation, through a network of public hospitals and enlisted private hospitals. To the youth of India, the Congress pledged to make jobs its top priority, saying it would ensure 34 lakh jobs in the public sector by filling all 4 lakh central government vacancies before March 2020, persuading state governments to fill 20 lakh vacancies and creating an estimated 10 lakh new Seva Mitra positions in every gram panchayat and urban local bodies. The party said it will also provide a fillip to the private sector by incentivising businesses for jobs creation and employing more women. The Congress added Tuesday that would radically simplify the GST regime with a single moderate rate of tax, zero rating of exports, and an exemption for all essential goods and services. It also promised panchayats and municipalities a share of GST revenues. The Congress added that it would reverse the trend of declining defence spending under the NDA government, and increase it to meet the requirements of the armed forces. On education, the Congress promised that school education from Class I to Class XII in all public schools would be compulsory and free. And finally, the party promised to pass in the first session of the 17th Lok Sabha the Women's Reservation Bill reserving 33 percent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and the State Legislative Assemblies. "Congress will also reserve 33 percent of all posts/vacancies in the Central government for women," the party's manifesto added. (With inputs from PTI)

What exactly does the Congress manifesto say? 

From scrapping AFSPA, sedition law to farmer Budget: Key Takeaways from Congress manifesto

Terror emanating from Pakistan, India's bid for UNSC and NSG Membership and working with SAARC are foreign policy focus areas in the manifesto released by Indian National Congress for the 2019 General Election on Tuesday.

On terror emanating from Pakistan, the Congress manifesto said, "Congress will take determined steps to persuade other countries to compel Pakistan to verifiably end its support to the terrorist groups that it shelters."

It is important to note that the 2014 manifesto of Congress focused on dialogue with Islamabad depending on its action on terror infrastructure. The 2014 manifesto said Congress will "calibrate the dialogue consistent with delivery on accountability for 26/11 as well as dismantling of the infrastructure of terrorism" when it comes to ties with Pakistan.

On efforts to combat the scourge, the grand old party in the 2019 manifesto said it "will persuade the United Nations to constantly review the list of terrorists and to expand the scope of sanctions."

It has also proposed to establish "effective mechanisms" with Sri Lanka and Pakistan to resolve the problems faced by fishermen.

503 Indian fishermen are in Pakistan’s custody. The Modi Government has been able to secure the release of 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats from Pakistan’s custody since 2014.

While announcing "re-doubling" of efforts for India's United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and Nuclear Suppliers Group membership, the Congress manifesto said, it "will work with SAARC &amp; ASEAN".

SAARC is on a standstill after India along with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives boycotted the 19th SAARC summit in Islamabad in the aftermath of the 2016 Uri terror attack perpetrated by Pakistan based United Nations listed terror organisation — Jaish-e-Mohammed.

The Congress has also announced that it will establish a national council on foreign policy consisting of members of the cabinet committee on security, scholars, diplomats to advise the govt.&nbsp;

Other than this the party in the manifesto said that it will increase the size of Indian foreign service, "induct domain experts" and open more missions abroad.

There wasn't any direct mention of China in the foreign policy section of the manifesto but under the border security section, the party said, if voted to power it will accelerate the construction of border roads "especially, the India-China border."

Congress president Rahul Gandhi had a few weeks ago met 30 envoys of foreign countries which included G20 countries and neighbourhood (barring Pakistan) and discussed regional and global issues.

Terror emanating from Pakistan, India's bid for UNSC and NSG Membership and working with SAARC are foreign policy focus areas in the manifesto released by Indian National Congress for the 2019 General Election on Tuesday.

Terror emanating from Pakistan, India's bid for UNSC and NSG Membership and working with SAARC are foreign policy focus areas in the manifesto released by Indian National Congress for the 2019 General Election on Tuesday. On terror emanating from Pakistan, the Congress manifesto said, "Congress will take determined steps to persuade other countries to compel Pakistan to verifiably end its support to the terrorist groups that it shelters." It is important to note that the 2014 manifesto of Congress focused on dialogue with Islamabad depending on its action on terror infrastructure. The 2014 manifesto said Congress will "calibrate the dialogue consistent with delivery on accountability for 26/11 as well as dismantling of the infrastructure of terrorism" when it comes to ties with Pakistan. On efforts to combat the scourge, the grand old party in the 2019 manifesto said it "will persuade the United Nations to constantly review the list of terrorists and to expand the scope of sanctions." It has also proposed to establish "effective mechanisms" with Sri Lanka and Pakistan to resolve the problems faced by fishermen. 503 Indian fishermen are in Pakistan’s custody. The Modi Government has been able to secure the release of 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats from Pakistan’s custody since 2014. While announcing "re-doubling" of efforts for India's United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and Nuclear Suppliers Group membership, the Congress manifesto said, it "will work with SAARC & ASEAN". SAARC is on a standstill after India along with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and the Maldives boycotted the 19th SAARC summit in Islamabad in the aftermath of the 2016 Uri terror attack perpetrated by Pakistan based United Nations listed terror organisation — Jaish-e-Mohammed. The Congress has also announced that it will establish a national council on foreign policy consisting of members of the cabinet committee on security, scholars, diplomats to advise the govt. Other than this the party in the manifesto said that it will increase the size of Indian foreign service, "induct domain experts" and open more missions abroad. There wasn't any direct mention of China in the foreign policy section of the manifesto but under the border security section, the party said, if voted to power it will accelerate the construction of border roads "especially, the India-China border." Congress president Rahul Gandhi had a few weeks ago met 30 envoys of foreign countries which included G20 countries and neighbourhood (barring Pakistan) and discussed regional and global issues.

Foreign policy in Congress manifesto focuses on terror emanating from Pakistan, working with SAARC

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-manifesto-some-ideas-positively-dangerous-says-bjp-207472">Lok Sabha polls 2019: Congress releases manifesto, BJP says some of its ideas 'positively dangerous'</a>

The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the Congress manifesto were "positively dangerous".&nbsp;

The pushback — the Congress manifesto had been released earlier on Tuesday — was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who said the ideas were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India".&nbsp;

Jaitley was by and large referring to what the Congress manifesto has said about Kashmir.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/avoiding-temptation-rbi-likely-to-cut-key-rate-by-just-25-basis-points-207455">Reserve Bank of India likely to cut interest rate by 0.25%: Analysts</a>

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to cut its policy interest rate by 25 basis points on Thursday, despite some analysts believing the country's weakening economic growth and subdued inflation outlook warrant a larger reduction.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-exactly-does-the-congress-manifesto-promise-207487">What exactly does the Congress manifesto say?&nbsp;</a>

The Congress released its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday, and the BJP was quick to say some of the ideas in it were "positively dangerous".&nbsp;

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley went so far as to say some of the ideas in the manifesto were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India". But what else does the 55-page long Congress manifesto called "Hum Nibhayenge" or "We Will Deliver" say?&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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UN chief Antonio Guterres warned Tuesday against growing hatred of Muslims, less than a month after a deadly attack on mosques in New Zealand killed at least 50 people.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-lawmakers-to-try-to-force-pm-may-to-seek-further-brexit-delay-207516">British MPs to try to force PM May to ask for another Brexit delay</a>

A group of British lawmakers said on Tuesday they would try to pass a law which would force Prime Minister Theresa May to seek a delay to Britain's departure from the European Union and thus prevent a chaotic no-deal Brexit on April 12.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Congress releases manifesto, BJP says some of its ideas 'positively dangerous' The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the Congress manifesto were "positively dangerous".

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Congress releases manifesto, BJP says some of its ideas 'positively dangerous' The BJP said Tuesday that some of the ideas in the Congress manifesto were "positively dangerous". The pushback — the Congress manifesto had been released earlier on Tuesday — was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley who said the ideas were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India". Jaitley was by and large referring to what the Congress manifesto has said about Kashmir. Reserve Bank of India likely to cut interest rate by 0.25%: Analysts The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to cut its policy interest rate by 25 basis points on Thursday, despite some analysts believing the country's weakening economic growth and subdued inflation outlook warrant a larger reduction. What exactly does the Congress manifesto say? The Congress released its manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday, and the BJP was quick to say some of the ideas in it were "positively dangerous". Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley went so far as to say some of the ideas in the manifesto were "an agenda for the Balkanisation of India". But what else does the 55-page long Congress manifesto called "Hum Nibhayenge" or "We Will Deliver" say? UN chief Antonio Guterres warns against rising anti-Muslim hatred UN chief Antonio Guterres warned Tuesday against growing hatred of Muslims, less than a month after a deadly attack on mosques in New Zealand killed at least 50 people. British MPs to try to force PM May to ask for another Brexit delay A group of British lawmakers said on Tuesday they would try to pass a law which would force Prime Minister Theresa May to seek a delay to Britain's departure from the European Union and thus prevent a chaotic no-deal Brexit on April 12.

Lok Sabha election 2019: Congress releases manifesto

5 main themes of Congress manifesto for 2019 Lok Sabha polls

Unemployment, woman safety, education, national security,&nbsp;healthcare, farmers distress and&nbsp;Nyuntam Aay Yojana (NYAY) for poor are the key issues in Congress manifesto, said Congress president&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi as he released party's manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha&nbsp;elections&nbsp;on Tuesday at the party headquarters in New Delhi.&nbsp;

There are five main themes in Congress manifesto, first among them is minimum income scheme NYAY under which Rs 72,000 will be given to poorest, he said.

''Not a single lie has been incorporated in the manifesto,'' Gandhi said.

''Whatever is going to be in this manifesto has to be truthful, I do not want a single thing in this manifesto that is a lie because we have been hearing a large number of lies spoken every day by our PM,'' Rahul Gandhi said.

Congress president also said that there will be a separate budget for farmers and 150 days guaranteed employment under MNREGA.

''PM had spoken about MGNREGA. He mocked and said it is a bogus and useless scheme. Today everyone knows how much it helped the country. So now we want to guarantee jobs for 150 days, instead of 100 days, under the scheme.'' Rahul said.

Congress will allocate six&nbsp;per cent of GDP to education and strengthen government&nbsp;hospitals and give high-quality healthcare access to the poor, he added.

On his decision to contest from Wayanad in Kerala, Rahul said, ''South India feels hostility from Narendra Modi; I wanted to send a message, I am standing with you."

Several heavyweight Congress leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, P Chidambaram and several others were present.&nbsp;

Unemployment, woman safety, education, national security, healthcare, farmers distress and Nyuntam Aay Yojana (NYAY) for poor are the key issues in Congress manifesto, said Congress president Rahul Gandhi as he released party's manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

Unemployment, woman safety, education, national security, healthcare, farmers distress and Nyuntam Aay Yojana (NYAY) for poor are the key issues in Congress manifesto, said Congress president Rahul Gandhi as he released party's manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on Tuesday at the party headquarters in New Delhi. There are five main themes in Congress manifesto, first among them is minimum income scheme NYAY under which Rs 72,000 will be given to poorest, he said. ''Not a single lie has been incorporated in the manifesto,'' Gandhi said. ''Whatever is going to be in this manifesto has to be truthful, I do not want a single thing in this manifesto that is a lie because we have been hearing a large number of lies spoken every day by our PM,'' Rahul Gandhi said. Congress president also said that there will be a separate budget for farmers and 150 days guaranteed employment under MNREGA. ''PM had spoken about MGNREGA. He mocked and said it is a bogus and useless scheme. Today everyone knows how much it helped the country. So now we want to guarantee jobs for 150 days, instead of 100 days, under the scheme.'' Rahul said. Congress will allocate six per cent of GDP to education and strengthen government hospitals and give high-quality healthcare access to the poor, he added. On his decision to contest from Wayanad in Kerala, Rahul said, ''South India feels hostility from Narendra Modi; I wanted to send a message, I am standing with you." Several heavyweight Congress leaders including Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, P Chidambaram and several others were present.

Congress unveils party manifesto titled 'Congress will deliver' 

India elections 2019: Congress to release manifesto today

The Congress on Thursday released its manifesto for the upcoming Mizoram Assembly polls and promised to provide free laptops to students who have cleared Class 10 and above if it returns to power in the state.

In the election manifesto released by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, the party also pledged to continue with its two flagship programmes for farmers and youths.

Mizoram is the only state in the northeast where the Congress has a government and BJP leaders have asserted they would make concerted efforts to oust the opposition party from the eight northeastern states.

Thanhawla, also the party's state unit president, has been the chief minister since 2008.

If voted to power in Mizoram for the third consecutive time, students who clear the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) exam for Class 10 and above will be given laptops every year, the party manifesto said.

Initially, however, they would be distributed among those students above the HSLC without jobs, it said.

The party also promised to continue with its New Land Use Policy (NLUP) for the farmers and New Economic Development Policy (NEDP) for unemployed youths.

The NLUP was launched in January 2011 to end the wasteful practice of shifting or 'jhum' cultivation - process of clearing land by burning its natural vegetation before growing crops.

A beneficiary of the NLUP gets around Rs 1 lakh. The party said the grant would be raised.

It said the NEDP would also be continued with special thrust on entrepreneurship development for the youths.

The Congress manifesto also promised housing for the poor in rural areas and residential quarters for employees of police and education departments.

It also promised to set up more rehabilitation centres for drug addicts and alcoholics across the state.

Polling will be held in Mizoram on November 28.

Results will be declared on December 11 along with four other states.

The Congress on Thursday released its manifesto for the upcoming Mizoram Assembly polls and promised to provide free laptops to students who have cleared Class 10 and above if it returns to power in the state.

The Congress on Thursday released its manifesto for the upcoming Mizoram Assembly polls and promised to provide free laptops to students who have cleared Class 10 and above if it returns to power in the state. In the election manifesto released by Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, the party also pledged to continue with its two flagship programmes for farmers and youths. Mizoram is the only state in the northeast where the Congress has a government and BJP leaders have asserted they would make concerted efforts to oust the opposition party from the eight northeastern states. Thanhawla, also the party's state unit president, has been the chief minister since 2008. If voted to power in Mizoram for the third consecutive time, students who clear the High School Leaving Certificate (HSLC) exam for Class 10 and above will be given laptops every year, the party manifesto said. Initially, however, they would be distributed among those students above the HSLC without jobs, it said. The party also promised to continue with its New Land Use Policy (NLUP) for the farmers and New Economic Development Policy (NEDP) for unemployed youths. The NLUP was launched in January 2011 to end the wasteful practice of shifting or 'jhum' cultivation - process of clearing land by burning its natural vegetation before growing crops. A beneficiary of the NLUP gets around Rs 1 lakh. The party said the grant would be raised. It said the NEDP would also be continued with special thrust on entrepreneurship development for the youths. The Congress manifesto also promised housing for the poor in rural areas and residential quarters for employees of police and education departments. It also promised to set up more rehabilitation centres for drug addicts and alcoholics across the state. Polling will be held in Mizoram on November 28. Results will be declared on December 11 along with four other states.

Mizoram polls: Congress releases manifesto, promises laptops to students

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