Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now.

Addressing a press conference here, Puri said, "I have never been as hopeful and confident on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment whatever you choose, as I am now. I have always said that Air India is a first-class asset. It has excellent engineers, excellent pilots, covering various destinations be it the evacuation of people from Wuhan, Air India has been at the heart of it."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-crew-stranded-on-cruise-ships-in-uk-appeal-for-repatriation-307303">Also read:&nbsp;Indian crew stranded on cruise ships in UK appeal for repatriation</a>

"And I think, we need to make some decisions on nationalisation. We may have lost two or three months because of the pandemic, but we have gained a lot of experience in terms of the value and how to take this forward," he added.

Commenting upon the resumption of international flights, Puri said, "The notion that international traffic has opened up and we are the only one not to open up, needs a reality check. The exact time when international flights will be resumed depends on whether other countries are open to receive flights."

"In absence of a decision on resumption of international civil aviation which will depend on other countries opening up, we are left with no option but to continue what I call evacuation and repatriation flights under managed and controlled conditions," he added.&nbsp;

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Saturday said that he has never been as "hopeful and confident" on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment as he is now. Addressing a press conference here, Puri said, "I have never been as hopeful and confident on Air India`s divestment or disinvestment whatever you choose, as I am now. I have always said that Air India is a first-class asset. It has excellent engineers, excellent pilots, covering various destinations be it the evacuation of people from Wuhan, Air India has been at the heart of it." Also read: Indian crew stranded on cruise ships in UK appeal for repatriation "And I think, we need to make some decisions on nationalisation. We may have lost two or three months because of the pandemic, but we have gained a lot of experience in terms of the value and how to take this forward," he added. Commenting upon the resumption of international flights, Puri said, "The notion that international traffic has opened up and we are the only one not to open up, needs a reality check. The exact time when international flights will be resumed depends on whether other countries are open to receive flights." "In absence of a decision on resumption of international civil aviation which will depend on other countries opening up, we are left with no option but to continue what I call evacuation and repatriation flights under managed and controlled conditions," he added.

Hardeep Singh Puri 'confident and hopeful' about Air India's divestment, disinvestment plans

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to allow incoming domestic flights from Monday, 25th March, in line with the Aviation Ministry’s decision to re-start limited flights across India. The arrival and departure of flights will be based on a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)laid down by the state government. However, Tamil Nadu was among the states with rising Covid-19 cases that had requested the Aviation Ministry to resume flight operations after 31st May.&nbsp;

Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said that there would be a maximum of 25 flights arriving in Chennai, while there won’t be a cap on departure. Tamil Nadu government’s SOP for domestic air travel mentions that “all incoming travelers coming into Tamil nadu shall register themselves in the TNePass portal and (if asymptomatic) shall undergo 14 day home quarantine.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-guidelines-issued-for-domestic-travel-aarogya-setu-app-compulsory-300740">Also read:&nbsp;New guidelines issued for domestic travel; Aarogya Setu app compulsory</a>

While there would be only 25 incoming flights to Chennai, there will not be a cap on the flights coming to Trichy, Madurai or Coimbatore.&nbsp;

The Tamil Nadu Government has also decided to keep the flights coming in from Maharashtra and Gujarat at bare minimum, however there is no issue for operating any number of flights out of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Passengers seeking the TNePass would be required to declare that they are not residing in a containment zone, don't have symptoms, are not under quarantine and also must agree to report to the authorities if they develop symptoms. The persons traveling into the state should not have tested COVID-19 positive in the last two months. The declaration also includes the condition that if a passenger embarks on the journey based on false information, he/she is liable for punishment.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-tn-west-bengal-seek-delay-in-restarting-flights-as-coronavirus-cases-rise-300734">Also read:&nbsp;Maha, TN, West Bengal seek delay in restarting flights as coronavirus cases rise</a>

All the passengers flying into Tamil Nadu will be stamped with quarantine seal with date and indelible ink before they are are allowed to move out of the airport.&nbsp;

On arrival, passengers would be required tp shaw the E-Pass at the airport exit. While passengers without E-Pass would not be permitted to exit the airport, for the first few days, arrangements would be made at the airport for E-Pass registration as a transitional arrangement.

For those taking a flight out of Tamil Nadu, all passengers would undergo medical screening as stipulated by the Airport Authority and persons with symptoms will be set to health facility for testing and quarantine. Only asymptomatic persons will be allowed to board the flight.&nbsp;

The nationwide-lockdown, which was imposed in March, had meant the suspension of regular flights to and from Chennai. However, repatriation flights for foreign citizens have been operating with government approvals.&nbsp;

“Since lockdown was implemented on 25th March, 63 non-scheduled relief flights carrying nearly 10000 passengers have operated at Chennai International Airport till 24th May. Out of these, 51 flights took off from Chennai carrying over 7500 foreign passengers and 12 flights brought over 1800 Indians stranded in foreign countries. We had deployed adequate teams with necessary precautions in place to provide smooth clearance fro all of them” Rajan Choudhary, Commissioner Customs, Chennai International Airport told WION.

During the first phase (8th -13th May) of Vande Bharat Mission aimed at bringing back Indians stranded in various countries. 11 flights arrived in Tamil Nadu and 9 flights landed in Chennai. Of the nine, two flights arrived from Dubai and one each from Kuwait, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Muscat (Oman), Chicago (USA), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Manila (Philippines) and London (UK). In total, 1,691 passengers landed at the Chennai Airport.

Currently, Tamil Nadu has breached the 16,000 mark in Covid-19 cases, with over 5,000 cases over the last one week alone. The state has recorded a total of 16,277 cases, of which 7,839 are active cases. Chennai alone has recorded over 10,000 total cases and has 5,653 active cases. The death toll in the state stands at 111. So far, Tamil Nadu has tested over 3.91 lakh people and 4.09 lakh samples.

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to allow incoming domestic flights from Monday, 25th March, in line with the Aviation Ministry’s decision to re-start limited flights across India.

The Tamil Nadu government has decided to allow incoming domestic flights from Monday, 25th March, in line with the Aviation Ministry’s decision to re-start limited flights across India. The arrival and departure of flights will be based on a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)laid down by the state government. However, Tamil Nadu was among the states with rising Covid-19 cases that had requested the Aviation Ministry to resume flight operations after 31st May. Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said that there would be a maximum of 25 flights arriving in Chennai, while there won’t be a cap on departure. Tamil Nadu government’s SOP for domestic air travel mentions that “all incoming travelers coming into Tamil nadu shall register themselves in the TNePass portal and (if asymptomatic) shall undergo 14 day home quarantine. Also read: New guidelines issued for domestic travel; Aarogya Setu app compulsory While there would be only 25 incoming flights to Chennai, there will not be a cap on the flights coming to Trichy, Madurai or Coimbatore. The Tamil Nadu Government has also decided to keep the flights coming in from Maharashtra and Gujarat at bare minimum, however there is no issue for operating any number of flights out of Tamil Nadu. Passengers seeking the TNePass would be required to declare that they are not residing in a containment zone, don't have symptoms, are not under quarantine and also must agree to report to the authorities if they develop symptoms. The persons traveling into the state should not have tested COVID-19 positive in the last two months. The declaration also includes the condition that if a passenger embarks on the journey based on false information, he/she is liable for punishment. Also read: Maha, TN, West Bengal seek delay in restarting flights as coronavirus cases rise All the passengers flying into Tamil Nadu will be stamped with quarantine seal with date and indelible ink before they are are allowed to move out of the airport. On arrival, passengers would be required tp shaw the E-Pass at the airport exit. While passengers without E-Pass would not be permitted to exit the airport, for the first few days, arrangements would be made at the airport for E-Pass registration as a transitional arrangement. For those taking a flight out of Tamil Nadu, all passengers would undergo medical screening as stipulated by the Airport Authority and persons with symptoms will be set to health facility for testing and quarantine. Only asymptomatic persons will be allowed to board the flight. The nationwide-lockdown, which was imposed in March, had meant the suspension of regular flights to and from Chennai. However, repatriation flights for foreign citizens have been operating with government approvals. “Since lockdown was implemented on 25th March, 63 non-scheduled relief flights carrying nearly 10000 passengers have operated at Chennai International Airport till 24th May. Out of these, 51 flights took off from Chennai carrying over 7500 foreign passengers and 12 flights brought over 1800 Indians stranded in foreign countries. We had deployed adequate teams with necessary precautions in place to provide smooth clearance fro all of them” Rajan Choudhary, Commissioner Customs, Chennai International Airport told WION. During the first phase (8th -13th May) of Vande Bharat Mission aimed at bringing back Indians stranded in various countries. 11 flights arrived in Tamil Nadu and 9 flights landed in Chennai. Of the nine, two flights arrived from Dubai and one each from Kuwait, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Muscat (Oman), Chicago (USA), Dhaka (Bangladesh), Manila (Philippines) and London (UK). In total, 1,691 passengers landed at the Chennai Airport. Currently, Tamil Nadu has breached the 16,000 mark in Covid-19 cases, with over 5,000 cases over the last one week alone. The state has recorded a total of 16,277 cases, of which 7,839 are active cases. Chennai alone has recorded over 10,000 total cases and has 5,653 active cases. The death toll in the state stands at 111. So far, Tamil Nadu has tested over 3.91 lakh people and 4.09 lakh samples.

Tamil Nadu government allows domestic air travel; e-pass compulsory

As the aviation industry gears up to get back in air from Monday, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have issued guidelines for international and domestic travel.

As per the guidelines, wearing face masks, or face shields, will be compulsory during the entire journey. All passengers have been advised to wear hand gloves and avoid coming in contact with anything in public spaces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maha-tn-west-bengal-seek-delay-in-restarting-flights-as-coronavirus-cases-rise-300734">Also read:&nbsp;Maha, TN, West Bengal seek delay in restarting flights as coronavirus cases rise</a>

Passengers will go through thermal screening on the airports and will have to follow all rules of social distancing throughout their journey.

All asymptomatic passengers will be allowed to travel, under the strict guidelines to self-quarantine&nbsp;themselves for the next 14 days. They will also have to self-examine their health symptoms&nbsp;for 14 days, and inform the&nbsp;district surveillance officer or the state/national call center if they suspect any symptoms.

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Latest guidelines on domestic &amp; international travel have been issued by <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a>. 
 
I hope travellers strictly follow these self-regulatory norms &amp; strengthen India's hands in this fight against COVID19. Remember, each one of us is a soldier against the pandemic.<a href="https://twitter.com/MoCA_GoI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoCA_GoI</a> <a href="https://t.co/xVbTG1K44n">pic.twitter.com/xVbTG1K44n</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1264479951132209153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It is compulsory for all passengers to be registered on Aarogya Setu app to prove that they are coming from a non-containment zone, or 'green zone'.

A list of dos and don'ts will be provided to the passengers along with tickets by the concerned authorities, said the ministry's guidelines for domestic travel (air/train/inter-state bus travel).

These guidelines have been issued for domestic air, train and road travel.

As majority airlines have booked the tickets for their routes starting tomorrow,&nbsp;Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal&nbsp;have said they are not prepared to open for flights amid rising cases.

As the aviation industry gears up to get back in air from Monday, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have issued guidelines for international and domestic travel.

As the aviation industry gears up to get back in air from Monday, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have issued guidelines for international and domestic travel. As per the guidelines, wearing face masks, or face shields, will be compulsory during the entire journey. All passengers have been advised to wear hand gloves and avoid coming in contact with anything in public spaces. Also read: Maha, TN, West Bengal seek delay in restarting flights as coronavirus cases rise Passengers will go through thermal screening on the airports and will have to follow all rules of social distancing throughout their journey. All asymptomatic passengers will be allowed to travel, under the strict guidelines to self-quarantine themselves for the next 14 days. They will also have to self-examine their health symptoms for 14 days, and inform the district surveillance officer or the state/national call center if they suspect any symptoms. Latest guidelines on domestic & international travel have been issued by @MoHFW_INDIA. I hope travellers strictly follow these self-regulatory norms & strengthen India's hands in this fight against COVID19. Remember, each one of us is a soldier against the pandemic.@MoCA_GoI pic.twitter.com/xVbTG1K44n — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) May 24, 2020 × It is compulsory for all passengers to be registered on Aarogya Setu app to prove that they are coming from a non-containment zone, or 'green zone'. A list of dos and don'ts will be provided to the passengers along with tickets by the concerned authorities, said the ministry's guidelines for domestic travel (air/train/inter-state bus travel). These guidelines have been issued for domestic air, train and road travel. As majority airlines have booked the tickets for their routes starting tomorrow, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal have said they are not prepared to open for flights amid rising cases.

New guidelines issued for domestic travel; Aarogya Setu app compulsory

Air India, under the Vande Bharat mission, has been assigned to operate 64 flights from May 7 to May 13 to bring back as many as 14,800 Indian nationals stranded abroad amid the coronavirus-induced lockdown. To this end, India's Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has termed this operation as the "largest evacuation programme undertaken by any government using civil aviation assets in decades."

Puri, in an exclusive conversation with Wion, said the ministry has so far drawn up the programme for only a week, and the further details shall soon be shared.

"This is the largest evacuation programme undertaken by any government using civil aviation assets in decades. We had earlier presumed that the number of people wanting to come back home would be 190,000. But as we started off with the programme, we realised this was on the conservative side," Puri said.

He added, "We have so far drawn up the programme for the first week, that is starting from May 7 till 14. In this phase, we plan to bring home about 14,800 Indians stranded in 12 countries through 64 flights.

"But as I said the number is on the conservative side, this may increase as we go forward."

These 64 flights would be conducted by Air India and its subsidiary Air India Express to repatriate Indians from 12 countries such as the UAE, the UK, the US, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman.

India will conduct 10 flights to the UAE, seven flights each to the US and the UK, five flights to Saudi Arabia, five flights to Singapore and two flights to Qatar to repatriate Indian nationals between May 7 and May 13.

During this time period, India will also conduct seven flights each to Malaysia and Bangladesh, five flights each to Kuwait and Philippines, two flights each to Oman and Bahrain, Puri had earlier announced.

Private airlines may be roped in if need arises, he said.

On arrival from abroad, all passengers will be screened and put under quarantine for a period of 14 days as a COVID-19 precautionary measure.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-flight-part-of-vande-bharat-mission-from-singapore-lands-at-delhi-with-234-passengers-297425">Also read |&nbsp;Air India flight, part of Vande Bharat mission, from Singapore lands at Delhi with 234 passengers</a>

"The challenge is not that the flights are arranged, but that the measures are properly executed. The passengers shall be tested when they board the plane and when they disembark it," he said, adding, "most importantly, at the point of disembarkation, there are arrangements of quarantining all passengers for a mandatory period of a fortnight."

The airports are fully geared to ensure the social distancing guidelines, he said.

When asked about the economic downturn, Puri said this was not a civil aviation industry-specific issue.

"Airlines are not operating. Airports are also not being run; so there's no revenue. Then there are tour operators and hotels that&nbsp;are also not getting their commission. So in short, it's not a civil aviation industry-specific issue. It's a larger issue; a multi-layered intertwined job. And we have to ensure that we try and resume the economic activity as soon as possible to benefit every industry," he said.

About a stimulus package, Puri said, "The finance minister and her team will have to assess the demands and necessities of every industry, and accordingly prioritise in consultation with the prime minister."

The aviation sector has been hit hard due to the suspension of all scheduled commercial passenger flights during the lockdown in the country which began on March 25.&nbsp;

Puri, to this end, also assured that the disinvestment process will soon be started with "full force" -- as soon as the economic activity is resumed in the post-coronavirus phase.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-conversation-with-indias-civil-aviation-minister-hardeep-singh-puri-297455">Also watch | WION exclusive conversation with India's Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri</a>

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Those availing the repatriation flights will be charged, Puri had earlier said.

A passenger on a London-Delhi flight will be charged Rs 50,000 and on a Dhaka-Delhi flight Rs 12,000.

India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. All commercial passenger flights were suspended for this period.

The first and second phase of lockdown in India was from March 25 to April 14 and April 15 to May 3, respectively. The third phase began from May 4 and would end on May 17.

Whenever the government resumes commercial passenger flights, it would be done in a graded manner, Puri had said.

The novel coronavirus has infected more than 46,400 people and killed around 1,560 people in India till now.

Meanwhile, an Air India repatriation flight from Singapore landed at the Delhi airport on Friday morning with 234 passengers.

On Thursday, two special flights from the UAE carrying a total of 363 Indian nationals, including nine infants, landed in Kerala.

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Mission Vande Bharat begins. 
 
First two flights bring home Indian citizens from the UAE. 
 
177 passengers plus 4 infants reach Cochin from Abu Dhabi. 
177 passengers plus 5 infants reach Kozhikode from Dubai. 
 
State govt will now arrange for their mandatory 14 day quarantine. <a href="https://t.co/sVteZkd2Tj">pic.twitter.com/sVteZkd2Tj</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1258447488434012161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Air India, under the Vande Bharat mission, has been assigned to operate 64 flights from May 7 to May 13 to bring back as many as 14,800 Indian nationals stranded abroad amid the coronavirus-induced lockdown.

Air India, under the Vande Bharat mission, has been assigned to operate 64 flights from May 7 to May 13 to bring back as many as 14,800 Indian nationals stranded abroad amid the coronavirus-induced lockdown. To this end, India's Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has termed this operation as the "largest evacuation programme undertaken by any government using civil aviation assets in decades." Puri, in an exclusive conversation with Wion, said the ministry has so far drawn up the programme for only a week, and the further details shall soon be shared. "This is the largest evacuation programme undertaken by any government using civil aviation assets in decades. We had earlier presumed that the number of people wanting to come back home would be 190,000. But as we started off with the programme, we realised this was on the conservative side," Puri said. He added, "We have so far drawn up the programme for the first week, that is starting from May 7 till 14. In this phase, we plan to bring home about 14,800 Indians stranded in 12 countries through 64 flights. "But as I said the number is on the conservative side, this may increase as we go forward." These 64 flights would be conducted by Air India and its subsidiary Air India Express to repatriate Indians from 12 countries such as the UAE, the UK, the US, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman. India will conduct 10 flights to the UAE, seven flights each to the US and the UK, five flights to Saudi Arabia, five flights to Singapore and two flights to Qatar to repatriate Indian nationals between May 7 and May 13. During this time period, India will also conduct seven flights each to Malaysia and Bangladesh, five flights each to Kuwait and Philippines, two flights each to Oman and Bahrain, Puri had earlier announced. Private airlines may be roped in if need arises, he said. On arrival from abroad, all passengers will be screened and put under quarantine for a period of 14 days as a COVID-19 precautionary measure. Also read | Air India flight, part of Vande Bharat mission, from Singapore lands at Delhi with 234 passengers "The challenge is not that the flights are arranged, but that the measures are properly executed. The passengers shall be tested when they board the plane and when they disembark it," he said, adding, "most importantly, at the point of disembarkation, there are arrangements of quarantining all passengers for a mandatory period of a fortnight." The airports are fully geared to ensure the social distancing guidelines, he said. When asked about the economic downturn, Puri said this was not a civil aviation industry-specific issue. "Airlines are not operating. Airports are also not being run; so there's no revenue. Then there are tour operators and hotels that are also not getting their commission. So in short, it's not a civil aviation industry-specific issue. It's a larger issue; a multi-layered intertwined job. And we have to ensure that we try and resume the economic activity as soon as possible to benefit every industry," he said. About a stimulus package, Puri said, "The finance minister and her team will have to assess the demands and necessities of every industry, and accordingly prioritise in consultation with the prime minister." The aviation sector has been hit hard due to the suspension of all scheduled commercial passenger flights during the lockdown in the country which began on March 25. Puri, to this end, also assured that the disinvestment process will soon be started with "full force" -- as soon as the economic activity is resumed in the post-coronavirus phase. Also watch | WION exclusive conversation with India's Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri × Those availing the repatriation flights will be charged, Puri had earlier said. A passenger on a London-Delhi flight will be charged Rs 50,000 and on a Dhaka-Delhi flight Rs 12,000. India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. All commercial passenger flights were suspended for this period. The first and second phase of lockdown in India was from March 25 to April 14 and April 15 to May 3, respectively. The third phase began from May 4 and would end on May 17. Whenever the government resumes commercial passenger flights, it would be done in a graded manner, Puri had said. The novel coronavirus has infected more than 46,400 people and killed around 1,560 people in India till now. Meanwhile, an Air India repatriation flight from Singapore landed at the Delhi airport on Friday morning with 234 passengers. On Thursday, two special flights from the UAE carrying a total of 363 Indian nationals, including nine infants, landed in Kerala. Mission Vande Bharat begins. First two flights bring home Indian citizens from the UAE. 177 passengers plus 4 infants reach Cochin from Abu Dhabi. 177 passengers plus 5 infants reach Kozhikode from Dubai. State govt will now arrange for their mandatory 14 day quarantine. pic.twitter.com/sVteZkd2Tj — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) May 7, 2020 ×

Over 190,000 Indians will be brought home: Civil aviation minister to Wion

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday.

"Any incoming flights to bring Indians back home will have to await the lifting of the lockdown," he told reporters at a press conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/operation-sanjeevani-india-sends-62-tonnes-of-medical-assistance-to-maldives-amidst-covid-crisis-290128" hreflang="en">Operation Sanjeevani: India sends 6.2 tonnes of medical assistance to Maldives amidst COVID crisis</a>

"The lockdown is till April 15. And, we can start considering the resumption of flights on a case-by-case basis depending on where they are coming from after that," Puri said.

India is under a 21-day lockdown till April 14 and therefore, all domestic and international commercial passenger flights have been suspended for this time period.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-three-indian-americans-infected-with-coronavirus-in-critical-condition-290119" hreflang="en">US: Three Indian-Americans infected with coronavirus in critical condition</a>

However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights, offshore helicopter operations and flights specially permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA can operate during this time period.

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday.

Resumption of international flights will be considered on a case-by-case basis after India's lockdown ends and will depend on which countries they are coming from, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Thursday. "Any incoming flights to bring Indians back home will have to await the lifting of the lockdown," he told reporters at a press conference. Also read: Operation Sanjeevani: India sends 6.2 tonnes of medical assistance to Maldives amidst COVID crisis "The lockdown is till April 15. And, we can start considering the resumption of flights on a case-by-case basis depending on where they are coming from after that," Puri said. India is under a 21-day lockdown till April 14 and therefore, all domestic and international commercial passenger flights have been suspended for this time period. Also read: US: Three Indian-Americans infected with coronavirus in critical condition However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights, offshore helicopter operations and flights specially permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA can operate during this time period.

International flights resumption after April 15 subject to from where they are coming: Aviation minister

India on Wednesday condemned in "strongest terms" the "heinous" terrorist attack at a Sikh Gurdwara in Kabul which led to the death of twelve people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terrorists-failed-to-attack-indian-mission-in-kabul-killed-11-in-gurudwara-288408">Also read: Terrorists failed to attack Indian mission in Kabul, killed 11&nbsp;in Gurudwara</a> 
 
In a statement, the government said that " We convey our sincerest condolences to the immediate family members of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance to the affected families of the Hindu and Sikh community of Afghanistan."

Describing the incident as a “cowardly attack”, &nbsp;the MEA said in its statement that "such cowardly attacks on the places of religious worship of the minority community, &nbsp;especially at this time of COVID 19 pandemic, is reflective of the diabolical mindset of the perpetrators and their backers".

"India stands in solidarity with the people, &nbsp;the Government and the security forces of Afghanistan in their efforts for bringing peace and security to the country,” the MEA said in its statement.

Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri also “strongly condemned” the attack.

“These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries &amp; the urgency with which their lives &amp; religious freedom have to be safeguarded,” he tweeted.

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Suicide attack on a Gurudwara Sahib in Kabul needs to be strongly condemned. These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries &amp; the urgency with which their lives &amp; religious freedom have to be safeguarded. <a href="https://t.co/yQM3u41dVI">pic.twitter.com/yQM3u41dVI</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1242705849019027456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

India on Wednesday condemned in "strongest terms" the "heinous" terrorist attack at a Sikh Gurdwara in Kabul which led to the death of twelve people. Also read: Terrorists failed to attack Indian mission in Kabul, killed 11 in Gurudwara In a statement, the government said that " We convey our sincerest condolences to the immediate family members of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.

India on Wednesday condemned in "strongest terms" the "heinous" terrorist attack at a Sikh Gurdwara in Kabul which led to the death of twelve people. Also read: Terrorists failed to attack Indian mission in Kabul, killed 11 in Gurudwara In a statement, the government said that " We convey our sincerest condolences to the immediate family members of the deceased and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. India stands ready to extend all possible assistance to the affected families of the Hindu and Sikh community of Afghanistan." Describing the incident as a “cowardly attack”, the MEA said in its statement that "such cowardly attacks on the places of religious worship of the minority community, especially at this time of COVID 19 pandemic, is reflective of the diabolical mindset of the perpetrators and their backers". "India stands in solidarity with the people, the Government and the security forces of Afghanistan in their efforts for bringing peace and security to the country,” the MEA said in its statement. Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri also “strongly condemned” the attack. “These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries & the urgency with which their lives & religious freedom have to be safeguarded,” he tweeted. Suicide attack on a Gurudwara Sahib in Kabul needs to be strongly condemned. These killings are a grim reminder of atrocities that continue to be inflicted upon religious minorities in some countries & the urgency with which their lives & religious freedom have to be safeguarded. pic.twitter.com/yQM3u41dVI — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) March 25, 2020 ×

India strongly condemns 'heinous' terror attack on Sikh Gurdwara in Kabul

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../trapped-indians-in-wuhan-seek-help-from- indian-govt-276752">Government of India</a> is planning to completely privatize the flag carrier airline of the country, as PM Modi administration is going all out in its another attempt to sell Air India and inviting bids to divest its entire stake in it.

Bids are invited by March 17 with Ernst and Young LLP India as exchange guide. Bidders for Air India Ltd. should assimilate $3.26 billion of its debt.&nbsp;

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The government owns 100% stake in Air India and its subsidiary Air India Express. The whole organization will be sold yet successful control needs to remain with Indian nationals.

Air India, which began its operation in 1932 as a mail bearer before winning business ubiquity, saw its fortunes blur with the development of cutthroat low-cost rivalry among domestic airlines. The state-run aircraft has been unfruitful for over 10 years and is burdened with a debt of more than $8 billion.&nbsp;

Indian guidelines permit a foreign airline to purchase as much as 49% of an Indian air carrier, while abroad financial specialists other than aircraft can purchase a whole transporter. The administration didn't locate a single bidder when it attempted to sell Air India in 2018.

The Government of India is planning to completely privatize the flag carrier airline of the country, as PM Modi administration is going all out in its another attempt to sell Air India and inviting bids to divest its entire stake in it.

The Government of India is planning to completely privatize the flag carrier airline of the country, as PM Modi administration is going all out in its another attempt to sell Air India and inviting bids to divest its entire stake in it. Bids are invited by March 17 with Ernst and Young LLP India as exchange guide. Bidders for Air India Ltd. should assimilate $3.26 billion of its debt. × The government owns 100% stake in Air India and its subsidiary Air India Express. The whole organization will be sold yet successful control needs to remain with Indian nationals. Air India, which began its operation in 1932 as a mail bearer before winning business ubiquity, saw its fortunes blur with the development of cutthroat low-cost rivalry among domestic airlines. The state-run aircraft has been unfruitful for over 10 years and is burdened with a debt of more than $8 billion. Indian guidelines permit a foreign airline to purchase as much as 49% of an Indian air carrier, while abroad financial specialists other than aircraft can purchase a whole transporter. The administration didn't locate a single bidder when it attempted to sell Air India in 2018.

Air India disinvestment begins: Modi govt invites bids for 100 per cent stake sale

Those opposing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) should introspect over their stance on the legislation after the incident of vandalism at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mob-dispersed-from-nankana-gurdwara-after-man-released-who-abducted-sikh-girl-272031">Nankana Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan</a> on Friday, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Saturday.

Speaking to ANI, Puri said that the Friday's incident at one of the holiest Sikh shrines provides yet another proof of the state of minorities in Pakistan.

"This was a wanton act of vandalism, stone-pelting and desecration against one of the holiest Sikh shrines. Those who have taken a stand on the Citizenship Amendment Act clearly either do not realise what they are saying or this is deliberately misleading or treachery," said Puri.

"If any proof were needed about the state of the minorities in Pakistan, this incident after the Friday prayers yesterday provided that proof," Puri said.

"All these people (CAA opposers) should do some series introspection after yesterday's incident."

An angry group of local residents pelted stones at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stone-pelting-at-nankana-sahib-gurdwara-india-calls-it-wanton-acts-of-destruction-271983">Gurdwara Nankana Sahib</a> in Pakistan on Friday evening.

The group was led by the family of a boy who had allegedly abducted Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur from her home in August last year.

India has strongly condemned the incident and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community.

&nbsp;

Those opposing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) should introspect over their stance on the legislation after the incident of vandalism at the Nankana Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan on Friday, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Saturday.

Those opposing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) should introspect over their stance on the legislation after the incident of vandalism at the Nankana Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan on Friday, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Saturday. Speaking to ANI, Puri said that the Friday's incident at one of the holiest Sikh shrines provides yet another proof of the state of minorities in Pakistan. "This was a wanton act of vandalism, stone-pelting and desecration against one of the holiest Sikh shrines. Those who have taken a stand on the Citizenship Amendment Act clearly either do not realise what they are saying or this is deliberately misleading or treachery," said Puri. "If any proof were needed about the state of the minorities in Pakistan, this incident after the Friday prayers yesterday provided that proof," Puri said. "All these people (CAA opposers) should do some series introspection after yesterday's incident." An angry group of local residents pelted stones at Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan on Friday evening. The group was led by the family of a boy who had allegedly abducted Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur from her home in August last year. India has strongly condemned the incident and called upon Pakistan to take immediate steps to ensure the safety and welfare of the members of the Sikh community.

Nankana Sahib incident proof of state of minorities in Pak: Hardeep Singh Puri

MISSION SMART CITIES 2020: MAKING INDIA SMART Guest of Honour Hardeep Singh Puri, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs & Civil Aviation Minister of India outlined smart cities mission and revealed government's 3-level strategy. Watch this Q&A session. WION's latest initiative focuses on the future of smart cities in India and the current real estate outlook. The Smart City initiative was launched in 2015 in India, with the agenda to promote core infrastructure and sustainable life for citizens. #WION #SmartCitiesWithWION #SmartCities

Guest of Honour Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri | Q&A Session

MISSION SMART CITIES 2020: MAKING INDIA SMART Guest of Honour Hardeep Singh Puri, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs & Civil Aviation Minister of India talked about ambitious targets and presented the statistics on The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana or Affordable Housing in Partnership. WION's latest initiative focuses on the future of smart cities in India and the current real estate outlook. The Smart City initiative was launched in 2015 in India, with the agenda to promote core infrastructure and sustainable life for citizens. #WION #SmartCitiesWithWION #SmartCities

Guest of Honour Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri Presents Smart Cities Mission | Session 3

Minister chooses WION event to outline India's Smart Cities Mission via PPT

India's aviation minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-be-difficult-for-air-india-to-function-if-it-is-not-privatised-aviation-minister-264860">Hardeep Singh Puri</a> today said that the government has decided to sell its entire 100 per cent stake in Air India under the proposed disinvestment process.

In a written reply in Lok Sabha, India's aviation minister said that an Air India specific alternative mechanism has been reconstituted after the formation of the new government.&nbsp;

Puri added that following this the strategic disinvestment of Air India has been approved. The national carrier, which has a debt burden of more than Rs 50,000 crore, has been making losses for long and as part of revival efforts, the government has decided on disinvestment. &nbsp;

The Parliament on August 3 had passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable.

Air India's net loss in 2018-19 is provisionally estimated to be Rs 8,556.35 crore.&nbsp;

The minister said various measures, including enabling the swift transition of Jet Airways aircraft to other airlines, have been taken to improve the aviation sector.&nbsp;

The full service carrier Jet Airways shuttered operations in April due to cash crunch. Minister Puri last month had said that the first meeting of the group of ministers (GOM) has met and takeN some decisions about Air India.&nbsp;

Puri had reiterated the same point earlier as well. The aviation minister had said that the government was looking a "fair deal" for the national carrier with several trained professionals needed which included engineers.

India's aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri today said that the government has decided to sell its entire 100 per cent stake in Air India under the proposed disinvestment process.

India's aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri today said that the government has decided to sell its entire 100 per cent stake in Air India under the proposed disinvestment process. In a written reply in Lok Sabha, India's aviation minister said that an Air India specific alternative mechanism has been reconstituted after the formation of the new government. Puri added that following this the strategic disinvestment of Air India has been approved. The national carrier, which has a debt burden of more than Rs 50,000 crore, has been making losses for long and as part of revival efforts, the government has decided on disinvestment. The Parliament on August 3 had passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019, which increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable. Air India's net loss in 2018-19 is provisionally estimated to be Rs 8,556.35 crore. The minister said various measures, including enabling the swift transition of Jet Airways aircraft to other airlines, have been taken to improve the aviation sector. The full service carrier Jet Airways shuttered operations in April due to cash crunch. Minister Puri last month had said that the first meeting of the group of ministers (GOM) has met and takeN some decisions about Air India. Puri had reiterated the same point earlier as well. The aviation minister had said that the government was looking a "fair deal" for the national carrier with several trained professionals needed which included engineers.

Government to sell 100% stake in Air India: Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri in Lok Sabha

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fuel-supply-to-air-india-stopped-at-six-domestic-airports-report-244881">Air India</a> is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/appalled-by-uk-mps-statement-on-article-370-union-minister-hardeep-puri-245232">Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri</a> on Wednesday.

"If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function? Earlier we used to go to the finance ministry to make up the operating loss. We are not getting any money from the finance ministry, we have to go to banks," Puri told ANI when asked about Air India disinvestment.

"The condition of Air India today is that it is a first-class asset. If we sell it now then bidders would come. If we take ideological positions that we don't want to sell it then it would be difficult to run it in the future," he said.

When asked people employed by Air India, Puri said: "We are committed to them to get a fair deal. 11,000 and 4,000 on contract include trained engineers. Those who would acquire the airline would also require these trained people."

Earlier in August this year, the Civil Aviation Minister had said that the government is determined to privatise Air India and people are interested in buying it.

The Parliament on August 3 passed the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/monsoon-session-parliament-set-for-yet-another-centre-vs-opposition-battle-152493"> Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India</a> (Amendment) Bill, 2019, that increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable.

The Bill, which seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008, had earlier been passed by Rajya Sabha.

Air India is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday. "If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function?

Air India is not privatised then from where the money would come for it to function?" said Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday. "If it (Air India) is not privatised then from where the money would come to for it to function? Earlier we used to go to the finance ministry to make up the operating loss. We are not getting any money from the finance ministry, we have to go to banks," Puri told ANI when asked about Air India disinvestment. "The condition of Air India today is that it is a first-class asset. If we sell it now then bidders would come. If we take ideological positions that we don't want to sell it then it would be difficult to run it in the future," he said. When asked people employed by Air India, Puri said: "We are committed to them to get a fair deal. 11,000 and 4,000 on contract include trained engineers. Those who would acquire the airline would also require these trained people." Earlier in August this year, the Civil Aviation Minister had said that the government is determined to privatise Air India and people are interested in buying it. The Parliament on August 3 passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019, that increases the threshold of annual passenger traffic for major airports to over 35 lakh with Civil Aviation stating that the government was committed to privatisation of Air India as its debt has become totally unsustainable. The Bill, which seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008, had earlier been passed by Rajya Sabha.

Will be difficult for Air India to function if it not privatised: Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday said he was "appalled" to hear a recent statement made by UK MP Tan Dhesi regarding the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

"My attention has been drawn to a recent statement made by Tan Dhesi, a British MP from Slough about Article 370. I am appalled. If my attention was drawn to this prior to our meeting, there would have been no meeting," Hardeep Singh tweeted.

Puri's remarks were backed by the chairman of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Foreign Affairs Department Vijay Chauthaiwale.

"Thanks a lot Mr @HardeepSPuri. Mr @TanDhesi, you cannot take anti-India stand in UK and then keep it under the wraps while visiting India," Vijay Chauthaiwale said.

Recently, Dhesi had met Puri and Union Minister Som Prakash where he had called for increasing frequency of flights between India and the UK.

Earlier this month, Dhesi had lauded UK's opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn for his comments on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir following the scrapping of special status.

"The situation in Kashmir is deeply disturbing. Human rights abuses taking place are unacceptable. The rights of the Kashmiri people must be respected and UN resolutions implemented," Corbyn had said.

India has made it clear to the international community that its recent decision on Jammu and Kashmir is strictly an "internal matter".

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday said he was "appalled" to hear a recent statement made by UK MP Tan Dhesi regarding the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday said he was "appalled" to hear a recent statement made by UK MP Tan Dhesi regarding the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir. "My attention has been drawn to a recent statement made by Tan Dhesi, a British MP from Slough about Article 370. I am appalled. If my attention was drawn to this prior to our meeting, there would have been no meeting," Hardeep Singh tweeted. Puri's remarks were backed by the chairman of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Foreign Affairs Department Vijay Chauthaiwale. "Thanks a lot Mr @HardeepSPuri. Mr @TanDhesi, you cannot take anti-India stand in UK and then keep it under the wraps while visiting India," Vijay Chauthaiwale said. Recently, Dhesi had met Puri and Union Minister Som Prakash where he had called for increasing frequency of flights between India and the UK. Earlier this month, Dhesi had lauded UK's opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn for his comments on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir following the scrapping of special status. "The situation in Kashmir is deeply disturbing. Human rights abuses taking place are unacceptable. The rights of the Kashmiri people must be respected and UN resolutions implemented," Corbyn had said. India has made it clear to the international community that its recent decision on Jammu and Kashmir is strictly an "internal matter".

Appalled by UK MP's statement on Article 370: Union minister Hardeep Puri

Not many people know that the first official airmail flight took place in India over a century ago. On February 18, 1911, French pilot Henri Pequet carried 6,000 cards and letters on his Humber biplane, from a polo field in Allahabad to Naini. So the Indian aviation sector started in British India in 1911. In the last 108 years, it has obviously come a very long way. Recently, India's Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that the sector is witnessing phenomenal growth, and the country could be getting 2,000 planes soon. As India celebrates its 73rd Independence Day, Wion Wings will trace the journey of Indian aviation. We will also understand the challenges facing the sector, and speak to experts to get an insight into what the future holds for aviation.

Wion Wings: 108 years of Indian aviation

WION Wings: 108 Years of Indian Aviation - Part 1

WION Wings: 108 Years of Indian Aviation - Part 2

WION Wings: 108 Years of Indian Aviation - Part 3

Air India will begin services on Mumbai-Patna-Amritsar and Mumbai-Nairobi routes from September 27, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Monday.

The minister also said that the national carrier will launch its operation on Delhi-Chennai-Bali route from October 27.

"I am delighted to announce that on the occasion of World Tourism Day on 27th Sept 2019, Air India will begin a direct Mumbai-Nairobi flight (4 days a week) to improve air connectivity between India &amp; Kenya," he said in a tweet.

Last Friday, Puri had said that the national carrier will start Amritsar-Delhi-Toronto flight from September 27.

"To honour another long pending demand of devotees to provide air connectivity between Guru Nagri &amp; Sri Patna Sahib, I am delighted to announce the commencement of a daily Air India flight between Mumbai-Patna-Amritsar from 27th Sept 2019," he had tweeted.

Later in the day, the minister also tweeted, "Delighted to announce the commencement of a four days a week @airindiain flight to connect Delhi-Chennai-Bali from 27th October 2019. This flight will enhance connectivity &amp; push the flow of tourists &amp; travellers between India &amp; Bali."

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Delighted to announce the commencement of a four days a week <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@airindiain</a> flight to connect Delhi-Chennai-Bali from 27th October 2019. This flight will enhance connectivity &amp; push the flow of tourists &amp; travellers between India &amp; Bali. <a href="https://t.co/JJkJa5PuMz">pic.twitter.com/JJkJa5PuMz</a>
— Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/HardeepSPuri/status/1140632365204512768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Puri, who is currently a Rajya Sabha member, had fought the 2019 general elections from the Amritsar Lok Sabha seat, but lost to Congress' Gurjeet Singh Aujla.

Air India will begin services on Mumbai-Patna-Amritsar and Mumbai-Nairobi routes from September 27, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Monday. The minister also said that the national carrier will launch its operation on Delhi-Chennai-Bali route from October 27.

Air India will begin services on Mumbai-Patna-Amritsar and Mumbai-Nairobi routes from September 27, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Monday. The minister also said that the national carrier will launch its operation on Delhi-Chennai-Bali route from October 27. "I am delighted to announce that on the occasion of World Tourism Day on 27th Sept 2019, Air India will begin a direct Mumbai-Nairobi flight (4 days a week) to improve air connectivity between India & Kenya," he said in a tweet. Last Friday, Puri had said that the national carrier will start Amritsar-Delhi-Toronto flight from September 27. "To honour another long pending demand of devotees to provide air connectivity between Guru Nagri & Sri Patna Sahib, I am delighted to announce the commencement of a daily Air India flight between Mumbai-Patna-Amritsar from 27th Sept 2019," he had tweeted. Later in the day, the minister also tweeted, "Delighted to announce the commencement of a four days a week @airindiain flight to connect Delhi-Chennai-Bali from 27th October 2019. This flight will enhance connectivity & push the flow of tourists & travellers between India & Bali." Delighted to announce the commencement of a four days a week @airindiain flight to connect Delhi-Chennai-Bali from 27th October 2019. This flight will enhance connectivity & push the flow of tourists & travellers between India & Bali. pic.twitter.com/JJkJa5PuMz — Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) June 17, 2019 × Puri, who is currently a Rajya Sabha member, had fought the 2019 general elections from the Amritsar Lok Sabha seat, but lost to Congress' Gurjeet Singh Aujla.

Air India to start services on three routes: Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri

New civil aviation minister said on Friday he is confident that problems at grounded Jet Airways Ltd will be solved, in the government's first comments on the debt-laden carrier since it was reelected last month.

"(We are) very confident we can solve the problems at the now defunct carrier," Hardeep Singh Puri said on the sidelines of a conference in New Delhi, in comments widely interpreted as referring to Jet.

Massive debt and suffocating price competition forced what was once India's biggest private-sector airline to halt operations in April at the cost of thousands of jobs, and resulting in higher airfares across the industry.

The airline and its lenders have been searching for new investors, while employee unions have been calling for government intervention. The government, however, has largely been quiet on the issue since its election victory.

Puri has assumed office at a time of distress in areas of Indian aviation. Last year, the government unsuccessfully sought a buyer for money-losing state-owned carrier Air India Ltd.

"We have made mistakes in civil aviation in the past which we need to correct," Puri said.

Jet's share price was 9% lower in early afternoon trade. The stock sunk in the last two trading sessions after India's largest stock exchange limited speculative trading in the firm.

New civil aviation minister said on Friday he is confident that problems at grounded Jet Airways Ltd will be solved, in the government's first comments on the debt-laden carrier since it was reelected last month.

New civil aviation minister said on Friday he is confident that problems at grounded Jet Airways Ltd will be solved, in the government's first comments on the debt-laden carrier since it was reelected last month. "(We are) very confident we can solve the problems at the now defunct carrier," Hardeep Singh Puri said on the sidelines of a conference in New Delhi, in comments widely interpreted as referring to Jet. Massive debt and suffocating price competition forced what was once India's biggest private-sector airline to halt operations in April at the cost of thousands of jobs, and resulting in higher airfares across the industry. The airline and its lenders have been searching for new investors, while employee unions have been calling for government intervention. The government, however, has largely been quiet on the issue since its election victory. Puri has assumed office at a time of distress in areas of Indian aviation. Last year, the government unsuccessfully sought a buyer for money-losing state-owned carrier Air India Ltd. "We have made mistakes in civil aviation in the past which we need to correct," Puri said. Jet's share price was 9% lower in early afternoon trade. The stock sunk in the last two trading sessions after India's largest stock exchange limited speculative trading in the firm.

Civil aviation minister says confident Jet Airways' problems will be solved

RK Singh and Hardeep Singh Puri take oath as cabinet minister. To know more watch the video

RK Singh and Hardeep Singh Puri take oath as cabinet minister

India's permanent representative to United Nations in 2009 Hardeep Singh Puri who had first proposed listing of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/masood-azhar-listing-rare-bonhomie-as-unsc-president-says-sanctity-preserved-215300">Masood Azhar</a> as a global terrorist has slammed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/long-awaited-action-victory-for-us-diplomacy-mike-pompeo-on-unsc-listing-azhar-as-terrorist-215231">Congress for not pursuing</a> the listing and having a flawed policy against Pakistan.

Speaking to reporters in Amritsar, Hardeep Singh Puri who is a minister now in Modi government's cabinet said, "I think the Congress is indulging in a false narrative and in a web of lies. You can start anything, you can make an effort, but have to pursue it and get it done."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-says-un-ban-on-masood-azhar-is-a-big-victory-215242/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Asking Congress a counter question, Puri said, "I want to ask them is if you are saying you did it in 2009, then why didn't you pursue it."

India was trying to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist for a decade, starting in 2009. In 2009, it was the lone&nbsp;proposer and did not get any support. &nbsp;In 2016, India again proposed the listing and it was co-sponsored by UK, US, France but&nbsp;it was blocked by China. In 2017, US, UK and France moved&nbsp;the proposal but China blocked the move again.

Slamming the opposition Congress on its Pakistan policy, he said: "Basic approach towards dealing with Pakistan was completely flawed. Pakistan milked you on the nuclear strategic doctrine. When they attacked you in 26/11 and we lost&nbsp;300 people, you should have given a befitting response."

Explaining the current government's policy, Puri said, "Mr Modi made it very clear... we will give you a befitting reply if terror emanates." and the "Modi government has been able to alter that entire reality" by getting global support from a diverse set of countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, China and "US and France in any case".

The move in February&nbsp;saw global support with 14 out of 15 members of UNSC&nbsp;backing the move for the listing of Masood Azhar.

The proposal was moved by US, UK, France and co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan. In fact, after the Chinese hold in March, the French had announced they would put a freeze on the assets of Azhar and will raise the issue with the European Union.&nbsp;

Currently, a text has been circulated among all members of the European Union for listing of Azhar as a terrorist under EU jurisdiction.

India's permanent representative to United Nations in 2009 Hardeep Singh Puri who had first proposed listing of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist has slammed the Congress for not pursuing the listing and having a flawed policy against Pakistan.

India's permanent representative to United Nations in 2009 Hardeep Singh Puri who had first proposed listing of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist has slammed the Congress for not pursuing the listing and having a flawed policy against Pakistan. Speaking to reporters in Amritsar, Hardeep Singh Puri who is a minister now in Modi government's cabinet said, "I think the Congress is indulging in a false narrative and in a web of lies. You can start anything, you can make an effort, but have to pursue it and get it done." Asking Congress a counter question, Puri said, "I want to ask them is if you are saying you did it in 2009, then why didn't you pursue it." India was trying to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist for a decade, starting in 2009. In 2009, it was the lone proposer and did not get any support. In 2016, India again proposed the listing and it was co-sponsored by UK, US, France but it was blocked by China. In 2017, US, UK and France moved the proposal but China blocked the move again. Slamming the opposition Congress on its Pakistan policy, he said: "Basic approach towards dealing with Pakistan was completely flawed. Pakistan milked you on the nuclear strategic doctrine. When they attacked you in 26/11 and we lost 300 people, you should have given a befitting response." Explaining the current government's policy, Puri said, "Mr Modi made it very clear... we will give you a befitting reply if terror emanates." and the "Modi government has been able to alter that entire reality" by getting global support from a diverse set of countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, China and "US and France in any case". The move in February saw global support with 14 out of 15 members of UNSC backing the move for the listing of Masood Azhar. The proposal was moved by US, UK, France and co-sponsored by Australia, Bangladesh, Italy and Japan. In fact, after the Chinese hold in March, the French had announced they would put a freeze on the assets of Azhar and will raise the issue with the European Union. Currently, a text has been circulated among all members of the European Union for listing of Azhar as a terrorist under EU jurisdiction.

India's envoy at UN in 2009 slams Congress for not pursuing Masood Azhar's listing

Success of development goals anchored in India: His Excellency Hardeep Singh Puri at WION Global Summit

India already has a 515-kilometre functional network of metro tracks in various cities and 15 more will soon have over 660 kilometres of tracks for rapid urban transportation, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Monday.

Interacting with the members of the Consultative Committee attached to the Housing and Urban Affairs (HUA) Ministry, Puri spoke about new urban transport initiatives in India.

According to a statement released by the housing and urban affairs minister, the state governments and union territories have been advised to prepare and submit the Detailed Project Report (DPR) in line with the provisions in the Metro Rail Policy 2017.

"Hardeep S Puri, Minister of State (I/C) for Housing and Urban Affairs has stated that more than 664 kms of metro rail projects in 15 cities are presently under various stages of implementation, while more than 515 kms of metro line are already operational in India," the statement said.

He said several new cities are now aspiring to have metro rail systems.

To bring together the technology and service providers, policy makers, officials in urban transport from India and abroad, the 11th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference is planned from November 2-4 at Nagpur, with the theme "Green Mobility" to disseminate up-to-date and best urban transport practices information to the cities, he added.

India already has a 515-kilometre functional network of metro tracks in various cities and 15 more will soon have over 660 kilometres of tracks for rapid urban transportation, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Monday.

India already has a 515-kilometre functional network of metro tracks in various cities and 15 more will soon have over 660 kilometres of tracks for rapid urban transportation, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Monday. Interacting with the members of the Consultative Committee attached to the Housing and Urban Affairs (HUA) Ministry, Puri spoke about new urban transport initiatives in India. According to a statement released by the housing and urban affairs minister, the state governments and union territories have been advised to prepare and submit the Detailed Project Report (DPR) in line with the provisions in the Metro Rail Policy 2017. "Hardeep S Puri, Minister of State (I/C) for Housing and Urban Affairs has stated that more than 664 kms of metro rail projects in 15 cities are presently under various stages of implementation, while more than 515 kms of metro line are already operational in India," the statement said. He said several new cities are now aspiring to have metro rail systems. To bring together the technology and service providers, policy makers, officials in urban transport from India and abroad, the 11th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference is planned from November 2-4 at Nagpur, with the theme "Green Mobility" to disseminate up-to-date and best urban transport practices information to the cities, he added.

Metro network to be extended to 15 new cities: Union minister