A total of 67,377 cases of dengue and 48 deaths due to the vector-borne disease have been reported from across the country till October 13 this year, according to a report released by the Directorate of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme.

According to the data, Karnataka saw 12,756 dengue cases till October 13, which is the highest. Eight deaths have been reported due to dengue.

Bihar, which is grappling with flash floods triggered by torrential rains, saw 1,588 dengue cases.

The state capital, Patna, reported 1,135 dengue cases during the stipulated period. Poll-bound Maharashtra reported 7,863 dengue cases with four people losing their lives due to the disease.

According to the report, Uttarakhand saw 7,513 cases and eight deaths were reported. Kerala, on the other hand, saw 13 dengue deaths, and 3,075 cases being reported.Gujarat reported 5,819 dengue cases and six people had lost their lives till October 13, the report said.

National capital Delhi saw 1,431 cases of dengue but no deaths have been reported so far.

&nbsp;

A total of 67,377 cases of dengue and 48 deaths due to the vector-borne disease have been reported from across the country till October 13 this year, according to a report released by the Directorate of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme.

A total of 67,377 cases of dengue and 48 deaths due to the vector-borne disease have been reported from across the country till October 13 this year, according to a report released by the Directorate of National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme. According to the data, Karnataka saw 12,756 dengue cases till October 13, which is the highest. Eight deaths have been reported due to dengue. Bihar, which is grappling with flash floods triggered by torrential rains, saw 1,588 dengue cases. The state capital, Patna, reported 1,135 dengue cases during the stipulated period. Poll-bound Maharashtra reported 7,863 dengue cases with four people losing their lives due to the disease. According to the report, Uttarakhand saw 7,513 cases and eight deaths were reported. Kerala, on the other hand, saw 13 dengue deaths, and 3,075 cases being reported.Gujarat reported 5,819 dengue cases and six people had lost their lives till October 13, the report said. National capital Delhi saw 1,431 cases of dengue but no deaths have been reported so far.

67,377 dengue cases, 48 deaths reported across India till October this year

Malaysia said on Tuesday it would look to increase imports of crude sugar and buffalo meat from India, after reports that New Delhi was considering restricting imports of palm oil from Malaysia following the criticism of its actions in Kashmir.

Malaysia is the world's second-largest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia, and the edible oil contributed to 2.8 per cent&nbsp;of its gross domestic product last year. Malaysian palm oil futures fell for a third straight session on Tuesday, hitting their lowest in nearly two weeks.

"These steps will be taken in light of India's importance as our third-largest export destination in 2018 for palm oil and palm-based products worth $1.63 billion," Teresa Kok, the Malaysian minister in charge of the palm oil portfolio, said in a statement.

India is one of the biggest producers of sugar and buffalo meat in the world.

Reuters reported last week that India was considering restricting imports of some products from Malaysia, including palm oil after Kuala Lumpur criticised New Delhi for its actions in Kashmir.

India stripped its portion of the Kashmir valley of statehood and autonomy on August&nbsp;5, cutting internet and phone lines and arresting thousands in an attempt to dampen dissent.

Kok said she was aware of the news on "issues that threaten the good ties between Malaysia and India" and that Malaysia was open to negotiations with New Delhi on narrowing the trade deficit between the two countries.

Malaysia's exports to India stood at $10.8 billion in the fiscal year that ended on March 31, while imports totalled $6.4 billion.

Some Indian traders said refiners had already stopped buying Malaysian palm oil for shipment in November and December, fearing New Delhi could raise import taxes or enforce other measures to curb imports from the Southeast Asian country.

Twitter users in India and Malaysia have already sparred with each other - a #BoycottMalaysia call recently trended on social media in India - after Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said at the U.N. general assembly last month that India had "invaded and occupied" Kashmir, a disputed Muslim-majority region also claimed by Pakistan.

India's foreign ministry rebuked the Malaysian government after that, asking it to "bear in mind the friendly relations between the two countries and desist from making such comments".

Malaysia said on Tuesday it would look to increase imports of crude sugar and buffalo meat from India, after reports that New Delhi was considering restricting imports of palm oil from Malaysia following the criticism of its actions in Kashmir.

Malaysia said on Tuesday it would look to increase imports of crude sugar and buffalo meat from India, after reports that New Delhi was considering restricting imports of palm oil from Malaysia following the criticism of its actions in Kashmir. Malaysia is the world's second-largest producer and exporter of palm oil after Indonesia, and the edible oil contributed to 2.8 per cent of its gross domestic product last year. Malaysian palm oil futures fell for a third straight session on Tuesday, hitting their lowest in nearly two weeks. "These steps will be taken in light of India's importance as our third-largest export destination in 2018 for palm oil and palm-based products worth $1.63 billion," Teresa Kok, the Malaysian minister in charge of the palm oil portfolio, said in a statement. India is one of the biggest producers of sugar and buffalo meat in the world. Reuters reported last week that India was considering restricting imports of some products from Malaysia, including palm oil after Kuala Lumpur criticised New Delhi for its actions in Kashmir. India stripped its portion of the Kashmir valley of statehood and autonomy on August 5, cutting internet and phone lines and arresting thousands in an attempt to dampen dissent. Kok said she was aware of the news on "issues that threaten the good ties between Malaysia and India" and that Malaysia was open to negotiations with New Delhi on narrowing the trade deficit between the two countries. Malaysia's exports to India stood at $10.8 billion in the fiscal year that ended on March 31, while imports totalled $6.4 billion. Some Indian traders said refiners had already stopped buying Malaysian palm oil for shipment in November and December, fearing New Delhi could raise import taxes or enforce other measures to curb imports from the Southeast Asian country. Twitter users in India and Malaysia have already sparred with each other - a #BoycottMalaysia call recently trended on social media in India - after Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad said at the U.N. general assembly last month that India had "invaded and occupied" Kashmir, a disputed Muslim-majority region also claimed by Pakistan. India's foreign ministry rebuked the Malaysian government after that, asking it to "bear in mind the friendly relations between the two countries and desist from making such comments".

Malaysia offers to buy more imports from India after threat of palm oil curbs

The Indian government is looking into whether hefty discounts offered on Walmart-owned Flipkart and Amazon.com during their online festive sales violate foreign investment rules, a commerce ministry official told Reuters.

India introduced new rules in February aimed at protecting the 130 million people dependent on small-scale retail by deterring big online discounts. The rules forced e-commerce firms to tweak their business structures and drew criticism from the United States, straining trade ties between New Delhi and Washington.

While Amazon and Flipkart say they've complied with the federal rules, local trader groups say the two companies are violating them by burning money to offer discounts - of more than 50% in some cases - during the ongoing festive sales.

Reuters reviewed emails and internal training material from Flipkart showing the company is in some cases offering to reduce, or forfeit, its sales commission from sellers that offer discounts.

The commerce ministry official told Reuters the government was reviewing complaints and evidence filed by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), a group representing some 70 million brick-and-mortar retailers, alleging Amazon and Flipkart were violating the foreign investment rules.

The official declined to comment on possible action, but executives from Amazon and Flipkart were summoned to meet commerce ministry officials last week to discuss the matter.

Flipkart in a statement said it had a "good meeting" with government officials and it was "deeply committed to doing business the right way in India".

Amazon said it had an "open &amp; transparent discussion" with officials and has a high bar for compliance.

Seeking to attract shoppers around the key Hindu festival of Diwali, both retailers have placed full-page advertisements in top national daily the Times of India to showcase discount offerings stretching from Samsung and Apple phones to clothing and diapers.

"Customers are going online because of the unbelievable discounts. Because of these sales at offline businesses are down 30% to 40% this month," CAIT's secretary general Praveen Khandelwal said.

Flipkart&nbsp;Incentives

Two emails received by Flipkart sellers in September, just days ahead of the inaugural phase of the festive sales, showed it offering to partly fund discounts.

The company would "burn" 3% of the discount if a seller lowered a product price by 15%, or 9% if the seller discounted by 30%, said one of the emails.

In training material posted on Flipkart's restricted website for its sellers, seen by Reuters, the company asks them to prepare for the festive season by saying "nothing is bigger than this" and explaining how they can benefit by discounting products for Flipkart's premium customers.

"We want to ensure that you fetch as much profit from it as possible ... whatever the discount you are offering, half of that will be reimbursed to you by Flipkart," a post said.

A Flipkart source said the incentives were compliant with Indian regulations and were aimed at promoting sellers'&nbsp;earnings by effectively reducing the commission they pay.

All India Online Vendors Association, whose 3,500 members sell products on various online platforms including Flipkart, in a statement said fewer than 100 of its members benefitted from Flipkart`s partial discount funding, giving some sellers an unfair advantage.

The Indian government is looking into whether hefty discounts offered on Walmart-owned Flipkart and Amazon.com during their online festive sales violate foreign investment rules, a commerce ministry official told Reuters.

The Indian government is looking into whether hefty discounts offered on Walmart-owned Flipkart and Amazon.com during their online festive sales violate foreign investment rules, a commerce ministry official told Reuters. India introduced new rules in February aimed at protecting the 130 million people dependent on small-scale retail by deterring big online discounts. The rules forced e-commerce firms to tweak their business structures and drew criticism from the United States, straining trade ties between New Delhi and Washington. While Amazon and Flipkart say they've complied with the federal rules, local trader groups say the two companies are violating them by burning money to offer discounts - of more than 50% in some cases - during the ongoing festive sales. Reuters reviewed emails and internal training material from Flipkart showing the company is in some cases offering to reduce, or forfeit, its sales commission from sellers that offer discounts. The commerce ministry official told Reuters the government was reviewing complaints and evidence filed by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), a group representing some 70 million brick-and-mortar retailers, alleging Amazon and Flipkart were violating the foreign investment rules. The official declined to comment on possible action, but executives from Amazon and Flipkart were summoned to meet commerce ministry officials last week to discuss the matter. Flipkart in a statement said it had a "good meeting" with government officials and it was "deeply committed to doing business the right way in India". Amazon said it had an "open & transparent discussion" with officials and has a high bar for compliance. Seeking to attract shoppers around the key Hindu festival of Diwali, both retailers have placed full-page advertisements in top national daily the Times of India to showcase discount offerings stretching from Samsung and Apple phones to clothing and diapers. "Customers are going online because of the unbelievable discounts. Because of these sales at offline businesses are down 30% to 40% this month," CAIT's secretary general Praveen Khandelwal said. Flipkart Incentives Two emails received by Flipkart sellers in September, just days ahead of the inaugural phase of the festive sales, showed it offering to partly fund discounts. The company would "burn" 3% of the discount if a seller lowered a product price by 15%, or 9% if the seller discounted by 30%, said one of the emails. In training material posted on Flipkart's restricted website for its sellers, seen by Reuters, the company asks them to prepare for the festive season by saying "nothing is bigger than this" and explaining how they can benefit by discounting products for Flipkart's premium customers. "We want to ensure that you fetch as much profit from it as possible ... whatever the discount you are offering, half of that will be reimbursed to you by Flipkart," a post said. A Flipkart source said the incentives were compliant with Indian regulations and were aimed at promoting sellers' earnings by effectively reducing the commission they pay. All India Online Vendors Association, whose 3,500 members sell products on various online platforms including Flipkart, in a statement said fewer than 100 of its members benefitted from Flipkart`s partial discount funding, giving some sellers an unfair advantage.

Government looks into Flipkart, Amazon festive discounts after retailer complaints

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship.

"Building upon the strategic trust EAM @DrSJaishankar called upon HM King Willem-Alexander &amp; HM Queen Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the Netherlands and had fruitful discussions on expanding our relationship," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

The royal couple is on a five-day visit to India. Earlier in the day, they met President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon their arrival on Sunday night, Willem-Alexander and Maxima were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them.

Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala.

The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi.

The Netherlands is the partner country for the event. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019).

TheNetherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017.

The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday met King of The Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima and held "fruitful discussions" on expanding India and Dutch relationship. "Building upon the strategic trust EAM @DrSJaishankar called upon HM King Willem-Alexander & HM Queen Maxima @koninklijkhuis of the Netherlands and had fruitful discussions on expanding our relationship," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. The royal couple is on a five-day visit to India. Earlier in the day, they met President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Upon their arrival on Sunday night, Willem-Alexander and Maxima were given a traditional welcome at the airport where several officials lined up to receive them. Apart from the official programme in Delhi, the King and the Queen will also visit Mumbai and Kerala. The royal couple will attend the inaugural session of 25th Technology Summit in New Delhi. The Netherlands is the partner country for the event. India and The Netherlands have a bilateral trade turnover of $12.87 billion (2018-2019). TheNetherlands is the 5th largest investor in India with a cumulative investment of $23 billion between 2000 and 2017. The Netherlands is home to a 235,000 strong Indian diaspora, the largest in mainland Europe. The visit is expected to boost economic and political cooperation between the two countries.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar meets Dutch King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima

In a significant achievement, the world's largest fully government-funded health insurance scheme Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)&nbsp;has given benefit to over 50 lakh patients in their treatment so far.

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which is the flagship health assurance scheme of the central government, has now given half a crore hospital treatments in just a year.

According to the government, so far free secondary and tertiary treatment worth nearly Rs&nbsp;7,901 crores have been availed and states such as Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh have emerged as the top-beneficiary states.

Lauding the progress of the scheme, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/harsh-vardhan-launches-digital-platform-for-oral-health-information-254297">Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan</a> said: "The Ayushman Bharat family is growing by leaps and bounds. In just over one year, under PM-JAY more than 50 lakh treatments have been availed by beneficiaries across the country. But, this is just the beginning for this path-breaking scheme."

"The successful implementation of this scheme will help us take forward Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay's vision of "Antyodaya" - the upliftment of the last man, such that this deprived man gets the benefits of development. The aim of our government is to make Bharat 'Rog mukt and Ayushmaan!'," Vardhan said.

National Health Authority (NHA) chief executive officer (CEO) Dr Indu Bhushan also termed the development as a significant milestone.

"The scheme will continue to focus on reducing catastrophic out-of-pocket health expenditure, improving access to quality health care and meeting the unmet need of the population for hospitalization care so that we move towards the vision of Universal Health Coverage," he said.

Bhushan also said that empowering the poorest people in the country with the assurance of scheme is a major area of focus.

There were nine hospital admissions every minute across the country in the first year, said the government data.

More than 60 per cent of the amount spent has been on tertiary care. Cardiology, Orthopaedics, Radiation Oncology, Cardio-thoracic and Vascular Surgery, and Urology have emerged as the top tertiary specialities.

The scheme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 23 last year.

In a significant achievement, the world's largest fully government-funded health insurance scheme Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) has given benefit to over 50 lakh patients in their treatment so far.

In a significant achievement, the world's largest fully government-funded health insurance scheme Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) has given benefit to over 50 lakh patients in their treatment so far. Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, which is the flagship health assurance scheme of the central government, has now given half a crore hospital treatments in just a year. According to the government, so far free secondary and tertiary treatment worth nearly Rs 7,901 crores have been availed and states such as Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh have emerged as the top-beneficiary states. Lauding the progress of the scheme, Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said: "The Ayushman Bharat family is growing by leaps and bounds. In just over one year, under PM-JAY more than 50 lakh treatments have been availed by beneficiaries across the country. But, this is just the beginning for this path-breaking scheme." "The successful implementation of this scheme will help us take forward Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay's vision of "Antyodaya" - the upliftment of the last man, such that this deprived man gets the benefits of development. The aim of our government is to make Bharat 'Rog mukt and Ayushmaan!'," Vardhan said. National Health Authority (NHA) chief executive officer (CEO) Dr Indu Bhushan also termed the development as a significant milestone. "The scheme will continue to focus on reducing catastrophic out-of-pocket health expenditure, improving access to quality health care and meeting the unmet need of the population for hospitalization care so that we move towards the vision of Universal Health Coverage," he said. Bhushan also said that empowering the poorest people in the country with the assurance of scheme is a major area of focus. There were nine hospital admissions every minute across the country in the first year, said the government data. More than 60 per cent of the amount spent has been on tertiary care. Cardiology, Orthopaedics, Radiation Oncology, Cardio-thoracic and Vascular Surgery, and Urology have emerged as the top tertiary specialities. The scheme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 23 last year.

Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana has benefited 50 lakh patients across country, says Dr Harsh Vardhan

Pakistan has reverted on the Indian draft on Kartarpur Corridor by sending its own proposal but refused to budge on the thorny issue of $20 fee per pilgrim, against which New Delhi had voiced its concern in the last India-Pakistan officials meet in early September.

Pakistan has reverted on the Indian draft on Kartarpur Corridor by sending its own proposal but refused to budge on the thorny issue of $20 fee per pilgrim, against which New Delhi had voiced its concern in the last India-Pakistan officials meet in early September. India has confirmed receiving the proposal from Pakistan to WION. The proposal was sent on Friday by the Pakistan government to Indian high commission, according to sources in Islamabad to WION. The draft agreement says the two countries will exchange of list of pilgrims 10 days prior to they crossing over through the corridor with Islamabad then vetting the names at least four days prior to these pilgrims coming to Pakistan through the corridor. In case of agreement on the draft, both sides are expected to sign a deal at a ceremony which could take place at the Wagah – Attari border or at the Zero Point of Dera Baba Nanak. Pakistan and India have held three rounds of formal talks on the Kartarpur Corridor’s draft agreement whereas the at-least four times technical level experts have met to discuss the nitty-gritty of the project. The Kartarpur Corridor remained a long-standing demand of the Sikh community in India. Both Pakistan and Indian side began working on their respective sides for the Kartarpur Corridor. The corridor will be visa-free for Indian pilgrims entering from India into Pakistan, first of its kind between the two countries. Both sides plan to open the corridor, which was agreed upon last year in early November. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Indian side of the corridor on November 8.

Pakistan firm on $20 fee per pilgrim as it sends draft Kartarpur proposal to India 

Eight months after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-airstrike-was-our-leaderships-resolve-to-punish-perpetrators-of-terrorism-iaf-chief-on-air-force-day-254373">Indian Air Force (IAF) bombed the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist camp in Pakistan's Balakot</a>, intelligence agencies have received inputs that 45-50 terrorists including suicide bombers are being trained there.

"Around 45-50 suicide bombers are training inside the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in the Balakot town of Pakistan," top government sources told ANI.

Indian intelligence agencies are keeping a constant watch on the facility including technical surveillance to keep a track of the developments there.

A few of the terrorists, who have trained there, have even been sent to Kashmir for carrying out terror attacks on Indian security bases, the sources said.

Sources said the facility had remained closed for six months after the Indian Air Force attacked it in February this year.

Last month, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had revealed that Pakistan very recently "reactivated" the terror camp in Balakot.

On February 26 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb the JeM facility at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-releases-promotional-video-on-balakot-airstrike-253772">Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province</a>.

The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

Eight months after Indian Air Force (IAF) bombed the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist camp in Pakistan's Balakot, intelligence agencies have received inputs that 45-50 terrorists including suicide bombers are being trained there.

Eight months after Indian Air Force (IAF) bombed the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist camp in Pakistan's Balakot, intelligence agencies have received inputs that 45-50 terrorists including suicide bombers are being trained there. "Around 45-50 suicide bombers are training inside the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in the Balakot town of Pakistan," top government sources told ANI. Indian intelligence agencies are keeping a constant watch on the facility including technical surveillance to keep a track of the developments there. A few of the terrorists, who have trained there, have even been sent to Kashmir for carrying out terror attacks on Indian security bases, the sources said. Sources said the facility had remained closed for six months after the Indian Air Force attacked it in February this year. Last month, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had revealed that Pakistan very recently "reactivated" the terror camp in Balakot. On February 26 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb the JeM facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

More than 45 terrorists being trained at Jaish-e-Mohammed's Balakot facility

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday said that investment worth $58 billion is expected in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-investing-60-billion-on-gas-grid-to-link-up-nation-by-2024-255711">India's oil exploration and production sector</a> in the next two years, while $60 billion have&nbsp;already been invested to create gas-based infrastructure in the country. 
 
"We have invested around US dollar 60 billion to create a gas-based infrastructure in India. US dollar 58 billion investment is expected in two years in the oil exploration and production sector. New refineries and terminals, expanding the market size, bio-fuel are the priority areas," said Pradhan while addressing the third "India Energy Forum" in the national capital. 
 
He said that the centre is committed to making India a low carbon economy while stating that India's per capita carbon emission is far less than the world average. 
 
"The Central government is committed to making India a low carbon economy, although our per capita carbon emission is far less than the world average, particularly the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries," said Pradhan. 
 
The Union Minister also stressed the need for expediting gas exploration and developing import and distribution infrastructure. 
 
"The oil sector can play a major role in realising the dream of making India a five trillion dollar economy by 2024. Schemes like 'Ujjwala' and 'Saubhagya' have transformed the lives of the people of the country," he said. 
 
Pradhan also batted for bringing the aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and natural gas under the ambit of the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday said that investment worth $58 billion is expected in India's oil exploration and production sector in the next two years, while $60 billion have already been invested to create gas-based infrastructure in the country.

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday said that investment worth $58 billion is expected in India's oil exploration and production sector in the next two years, while $60 billion have already been invested to create gas-based infrastructure in the country. "We have invested around US dollar 60 billion to create a gas-based infrastructure in India. US dollar 58 billion investment is expected in two years in the oil exploration and production sector. New refineries and terminals, expanding the market size, bio-fuel are the priority areas," said Pradhan while addressing the third "India Energy Forum" in the national capital. He said that the centre is committed to making India a low carbon economy while stating that India's per capita carbon emission is far less than the world average. "The Central government is committed to making India a low carbon economy, although our per capita carbon emission is far less than the world average, particularly the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries," said Pradhan. The Union Minister also stressed the need for expediting gas exploration and developing import and distribution infrastructure. "The oil sector can play a major role in realising the dream of making India a five trillion dollar economy by 2024. Schemes like 'Ujjwala' and 'Saubhagya' have transformed the lives of the people of the country," he said. Pradhan also batted for bringing the aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and natural gas under the ambit of the Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Investment worth $58 billion expected in India's oil exploration, production sector: Dharmendra Pradhan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-encouraging-e-vehicles-by-reducing-gst-says-nitin-gadkari-at-wions-emobility-summit-253008">Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari</a> will inaugurate a conference on 'One Nation One Fastag' in the national capital on Monday. 
 
The conference will see the signing of Memorandums of Understanding&nbsp;(MoUs) with state departments and other agencies for bringing in a unified electronic tolling solution across the country. 
 
"This would mean enabling the use of the same Fastag affixed on the windscreen of a vehicle at every toll plaza in the country under the jurisdiction of different states and agencies and other entities. This will help provide seamless services to consumers across the country," an official statement said. 
 
Another MoU is expected to be signed tomorrow, between the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) and Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) for the integration of Fastag with GST E-Way Bill System. 
 
The GST Council has already accorded 'in-principle' approval for this integration. 
 
"The integration of EWB system with Fastag will help revenue authorities <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/looking-for-integrated-approach-to-solve-problems-says-nitin-gadkari-at-wions-emobility-summit-253033">track the movement of vehicles</a> and ensure that they are travelling to the same destination that the transporter or the trader had specified while generating the e-way bill," said the statement. 
 
MoS in the Road Transport and Highways Ministry General (Retd) VK Singh will also be present on the occasion, along with ministers and senior officials from state governments.

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari will inaugurate a conference on 'One Nation One Fastag' in the national capital on Monday. The conference will see the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with state departments and other agencies for bringing in a unified electronic tolling solution across the country.

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari will inaugurate a conference on 'One Nation One Fastag' in the national capital on Monday. The conference will see the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with state departments and other agencies for bringing in a unified electronic tolling solution across the country. "This would mean enabling the use of the same Fastag affixed on the windscreen of a vehicle at every toll plaza in the country under the jurisdiction of different states and agencies and other entities. This will help provide seamless services to consumers across the country," an official statement said. Another MoU is expected to be signed tomorrow, between the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL) and Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) for the integration of Fastag with GST E-Way Bill System. The GST Council has already accorded 'in-principle' approval for this integration. "The integration of EWB system with Fastag will help revenue authorities track the movement of vehicles and ensure that they are travelling to the same destination that the transporter or the trader had specified while generating the e-way bill," said the statement. MoS in the Road Transport and Highways Ministry General (Retd) VK Singh will also be present on the occasion, along with ministers and senior officials from state governments.

Nitin Gadkari to inaugurate conference on 'one nation, one fastag' tomorrow

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-rs-25-lakh-crore-will-be-spent-on-infrastructure-development-in-rural-areas-255651">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, who is known for his ability to connect with the masses through social media,&nbsp;now has 30 million followers on Instagram, in just over a month after the tech-savvy leader had crossed the 50 million follower mark on Twitter. 
 
With this, Modi is now the most followed world leader on the photo-sharing app.

US President Donald Trump currently has 14.9 million followers while his predecessor Barack Obama has 24.8 million followers on Instagram. 
"PM @NarendraModi crosses 30 million followers on Instagram*. He is the most followed world leader on Instagram ahead of US President Trump as well as former US President Obama. This is yet another testament to his popularity and connection with the youth," BJP working president JP Nadda said in a tweet. 
&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> crosses 30 million followers on Instagram* 
 
He is the *most followed* world leader on Instagram ahead of US President Trump as well as former US President Obama. 
 
This is yet another testament to his popularity and connect with the youth. <a href="https://t.co/Kd66uBAgyg">pic.twitter.com/Kd66uBAgyg</a>
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda/status/1183344957672706053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Twitter, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/valmiki-community-in-jk-was-deprived-of-basic-rights-until-abrogation-of-article-370-pm-modi-255632">the Prime Minister</a> currently has 50.7 million followers and now stands tall among the world leaders on the micro-blogging site, with his handle @narendramodi a little behind that of Trump, who has 65.7 million followers. 
 
Obama remains on the first spot with over 109 million accounts following him. 
 
Modi is very active on social media, including Instagram and Twitter and regularly puts out texts on everything - from his speeches at various platforms to the places he went to and the people he met. 
 
Last year, an international survey ranked PM Modi among the top three leaders of the world. 
 
An annual survey by Gallup International put the Prime Minister at number three among the global leaders. 
 
The respondents in the survey, which was conducted among people across 50 countries, rated Modi ahead of China's Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, former British Prime Minister Theresa May, and Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu amongst others. 
 
The top ranking in the survey went to the German Chancellor Angela Merkel, followed by the French President Emmanuel Macron.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is known for his ability to connect with the masses through social media, now has 30 million followers on Instagram, in just over a month after the tech-savvy leader had crossed the 50 million follower mark on Twitter.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is known for his ability to connect with the masses through social media, now has 30 million followers on Instagram, in just over a month after the tech-savvy leader had crossed the 50 million follower mark on Twitter. With this, Modi is now the most followed world leader on the photo-sharing app. US President Donald Trump currently has 14.9 million followers while his predecessor Barack Obama has 24.8 million followers on Instagram. "PM @NarendraModi crosses 30 million followers on Instagram*. He is the most followed world leader on Instagram ahead of US President Trump as well as former US President Obama. This is yet another testament to his popularity and connection with the youth," BJP working president JP Nadda said in a tweet. PM @NarendraModi crosses 30 million followers on Instagram* He is the *most followed* world leader on Instagram ahead of US President Trump as well as former US President Obama. This is yet another testament to his popularity and connect with the youth. pic.twitter.com/Kd66uBAgyg — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) October 13, 2019 × On Twitter, the Prime Minister currently has 50.7 million followers and now stands tall among the world leaders on the micro-blogging site, with his handle @narendramodi a little behind that of Trump, who has 65.7 million followers. Obama remains on the first spot with over 109 million accounts following him. Modi is very active on social media, including Instagram and Twitter and regularly puts out texts on everything - from his speeches at various platforms to the places he went to and the people he met. Last year, an international survey ranked PM Modi among the top three leaders of the world. An annual survey by Gallup International put the Prime Minister at number three among the global leaders. The respondents in the survey, which was conducted among people across 50 countries, rated Modi ahead of China's Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, former British Prime Minister Theresa May, and Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu amongst others. The top ranking in the survey went to the German Chancellor Angela Merkel, followed by the French President Emmanuel Macron.

PM Modi crosses 30 million followers on Instagram, becomes world's most followed leader

As the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-tourism-department-to-double-promotions-after-tourist-advisory-withdrawal-254966">mobile phone connections will be restored in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday</a> from 12 noon, the police and security forces deployed in the region are taking all precautionary measures. 
 
According to sources, there will be strict monitoring of&nbsp;hate mongers and deployment of extra forces will be done at strategic locations to avoid any unlawful gathering called to disturb law and order situation in the valley. 
 
When asked about the precautionary measures for Monday as the mobile phone connections in the Valley will be restored after over two months, Director General of Police (DGP), Jammu and Kashmir, Dilbagh Singh told ANI, "All precautions shall be taken." 
 
As mobile phones are the most preferred way for hate mongers to spread lies, local police will also keep an eye on fake news, messages created to ignite any kind of unlawful activity in the region. 
 
There have been inputs that Pakistan-backed groups will try to create a ruckus in the&nbsp;law and order situation by spreading rumours. 
 
The government fully restored landlines&nbsp;six weeks ago. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-opens-to-tourists-as-government-lifts-security-advisory-on-travel-254898">The Jammu and Kashmir administration</a> on Saturday said in a statement, "Having reviewed the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, a decision has been taken to restore mobile phone facilities in all the remaining areas of Jammu and Kashmir. More specifically, all post-paid mobile phones, irrespective of the telecom service provider, will stand restored and be functional from 12 noon on Monday, October 14, 2019. This will cover all 10 districts of Kashmir province." 
 
The administration also stated that with this step, tourists will be able to visit the state without being handicapped by the lack of phone connectivity, students can be in touch with parents while attending schools, businessmen can be in touch with customers, transporters can contact clients, and contractors can be in touch with staff. 
 
Phones connectivity in the valley was suspended by the central government as a precautionary measure keeping in view the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, which granted special status to the region. 
 
The Centre also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories -&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31.

As the mobile phone connections will be restored in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday from 12 noon, the police and security forces deployed in the region are taking all precautionary measures.

As the mobile phone connections will be restored in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday from 12 noon, the police and security forces deployed in the region are taking all precautionary measures. According to sources, there will be strict monitoring of hate mongers and deployment of extra forces will be done at strategic locations to avoid any unlawful gathering called to disturb law and order situation in the valley. When asked about the precautionary measures for Monday as the mobile phone connections in the Valley will be restored after over two months, Director General of Police (DGP), Jammu and Kashmir, Dilbagh Singh told ANI, "All precautions shall be taken." As mobile phones are the most preferred way for hate mongers to spread lies, local police will also keep an eye on fake news, messages created to ignite any kind of unlawful activity in the region. There have been inputs that Pakistan-backed groups will try to create a ruckus in the law and order situation by spreading rumours. The government fully restored landlines six weeks ago. The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Saturday said in a statement, "Having reviewed the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, a decision has been taken to restore mobile phone facilities in all the remaining areas of Jammu and Kashmir. More specifically, all post-paid mobile phones, irrespective of the telecom service provider, will stand restored and be functional from 12 noon on Monday, October 14, 2019. This will cover all 10 districts of Kashmir province." The administration also stated that with this step, tourists will be able to visit the state without being handicapped by the lack of phone connectivity, students can be in touch with parents while attending schools, businessmen can be in touch with customers, transporters can contact clients, and contractors can be in touch with staff. Phones connectivity in the valley was suspended by the central government as a precautionary measure keeping in view the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, which granted special status to the region. The Centre also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31.

J&K Director General of Police says all precautions will be taken during restoration of mobile services

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to discuss&nbsp;ways to improve people-to-people contact, enhance trade and on how to maintain peace and tranquillity along the 3, 500-kilometre long India-China border during their talks on the second day of the India-China informal summit.&nbsp;

The talks will be followed by delegation-level talks.

The two leaders met at the Tanjo Hall at Taj Fisherman's Cove for the second round of their informal talks today. Today's meeting will focus on international and regional issues, announced foreign secretary Vijay K Gokhale. The two sides will also issue separate statements of the outcomes of the two-day informal summit.

Xi's short visit to India will come to an end this afternoon after attending the lunch hosted by PM Modi. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rolls-out-red-carpet-to-welcome-xi-in-chennai-255256">President Xi</a> will leave for Nepal this afternoon.&nbsp;

The Chinese President arrived at the Chennai airport on Friday amid a rousing welcome. Shortly after his arrival, he left for Mamallapuram where the two leaders visited three UNESCO heritage sites and soaked in the cultural diversity of South India.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamallapuram-modi-xi-enjoy-carnatic-music-kathakali-at-sea-facing-shore-temple-255335">PM Modi received President Xi</a> at the Arjuna's Penance in traditional south Indian attire--veshti and angavastram, a south Indian garment draped over the shoulder. Both leaders were seen immersed in a friendly chat with PM Modi explaining to Xi the historical importance of the sites.&nbsp;

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Trade and terror were the focus of the first day of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-jinping-soak-in-cultural-extravaganza-as-second-informal-summit-gets-underway-in-mamallapuram-255338">2nd India-China informal summit</a> in Mamallapuram. The two leaders spent around five hours of "quality time" with each other on Friday.&nbsp;

The one-on-one dinner lasted over two hours wherein both the leaders discussed their national vision and governance priorities. Terror and trade was the top focus during the first day of Xi's India visit.

"There were discussions on trade-related issues and on economic issues and trying to identify areas for investment which two countries can encourage and how to enhance trade volume and trade value which include the issue of trade deficit and unbalance trade," foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said. &nbsp;

India and China also discussed the "challenges both countries face on account of terrorism. Both leaders said that these are large countries and radicalisation is a matter of concern for both and that both will work together to see that radicalisation and terrorism did not impact the fabric of our multicultural, multiethnic and multi-religious societies and a general sense that this was a common challenge and we will work together," Gokhale added.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to discuss ways to improve people-to-people contact, enhance trade and on how to maintain peace and tranquillity along the 3, 500-kilometre long India-China border during their talks on the second day of the India-China informal summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to discuss ways to improve people-to-people contact, enhance trade and on how to maintain peace and tranquillity along the 3, 500-kilometre long India-China border during their talks on the second day of the India-China informal summit. The talks will be followed by delegation-level talks. The two leaders met at the Tanjo Hall at Taj Fisherman's Cove for the second round of their informal talks today. Today's meeting will focus on international and regional issues, announced foreign secretary Vijay K Gokhale. The two sides will also issue separate statements of the outcomes of the two-day informal summit. Xi's short visit to India will come to an end this afternoon after attending the lunch hosted by PM Modi. President Xi will leave for Nepal this afternoon. The Chinese President arrived at the Chennai airport on Friday amid a rousing welcome. Shortly after his arrival, he left for Mamallapuram where the two leaders visited three UNESCO heritage sites and soaked in the cultural diversity of South India. PM Modi received President Xi at the Arjuna's Penance in traditional south Indian attire--veshti and angavastram, a south Indian garment draped over the shoulder. Both leaders were seen immersed in a friendly chat with PM Modi explaining to Xi the historical importance of the sites. × Trade and terror were the focus of the first day of 2nd India-China informal summit in Mamallapuram. The two leaders spent around five hours of "quality time" with each other on Friday. The one-on-one dinner lasted over two hours wherein both the leaders discussed their national vision and governance priorities. Terror and trade was the top focus during the first day of Xi's India visit. "There were discussions on trade-related issues and on economic issues and trying to identify areas for investment which two countries can encourage and how to enhance trade volume and trade value which include the issue of trade deficit and unbalance trade," foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said. India and China also discussed the "challenges both countries face on account of terrorism. Both leaders said that these are large countries and radicalisation is a matter of concern for both and that both will work together to see that radicalisation and terrorism did not impact the fabric of our multicultural, multiethnic and multi-religious societies and a general sense that this was a common challenge and we will work together," Gokhale added.

Modi-Xi summit: Day-2 to focus on boosting people-to-people contact and trade, maintaining peace

Foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale on Saturday briefed the media on the second India-China informal summit between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping.&nbsp;

Gokhale said that the one-on-one meeting between the leaders today lasted around 90 minutes wherein they endorsed the idea of an informal summit.

"The leaders held a good discussion on trade and terror," Gokhale stated adding that a new mechanism on trade will be established.&nbsp;The foreign secretary informed that the leaders did not discuss the Kashmir issue. "The issue was not raised," he said.&nbsp;

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: This(Kashmir) issue was not raised and not discussed. Our position is anyways very clear that this is an internal matter of India. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Modixijinping?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Modixijinping</a> <a href="https://t.co/6tULNNCLRA">pic.twitter.com/6tULNNCLRA</a>
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The prime minister, Gokhale said, stressed on boosting tourism between India and China and encouraged people-to-people contact.&nbsp;

"Both leaders agreed that it was important to deal with challenges of terrorism and radicalisation in an increasingly complex world. Both are leaders of the countries which are not only large in terms of areas and population but also in terms of diversity," Gokhale said.

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Foreign Secy Vijay Gokhale: A new mechanism will be established to discuss trade,investment and services,at an elevated level. From China it will be the Vice Premier, Hu Chunhua and from India it will be FM Nirmala Sitharaman <a href="https://t.co/msz6pwgU2I">pic.twitter.com/msz6pwgU2I</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1182930784849547264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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President Xi Jinping invited PM Modi to China for the next summit. "PM Modi has accepted the invitation. Dates will be worked out later," the foreign secretary stated.&nbsp;

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The second informal summit between India and China ended on Saturday afternoon after PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held one-on-one talks and delegation-level talks. President Xi left for his Nepal visit from Chennai airport.&nbsp;

During the delegation-level talks, PM Modi said&nbsp;that last year's informal summit in Wuhan, China "instilled a new momentum and trust in our relations and today's 'Chennai connect' is the start of a new era in India-China relations".&nbsp;

"The first informal summit between India and China last year in Wuhan led to fresh stability in our relations and gave a fresh momentum." he said.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping said that on Friday he engaged in candid conversations "like friends" with PM Modi. We held "heart to heart discussions on bilateral relations," Xi said.

"We are really overwhelmed by your hospitality. My colleagues and I have felt that very strongly. This will be a memorable experience for us," President Xi said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale on Saturday briefed the media on the second India-China informal summit between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Gokhale said that the one-on-one meeting between the leaders today lasted around 90 minutes wherein they endorsed the idea of an informal summit.

Foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale on Saturday briefed the media on the second India-China informal summit between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Gokhale said that the one-on-one meeting between the leaders today lasted around 90 minutes wherein they endorsed the idea of an informal summit. "The leaders held a good discussion on trade and terror," Gokhale stated adding that a new mechanism on trade will be established. The foreign secretary informed that the leaders did not discuss the Kashmir issue. "The issue was not raised," he said. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: This(Kashmir) issue was not raised and not discussed. Our position is anyways very clear that this is an internal matter of India. #Modixijinping pic.twitter.com/6tULNNCLRA — ANI (@ANI) October 12, 2019 × The prime minister, Gokhale said, stressed on boosting tourism between India and China and encouraged people-to-people contact. "Both leaders agreed that it was important to deal with challenges of terrorism and radicalisation in an increasingly complex world. Both are leaders of the countries which are not only large in terms of areas and population but also in terms of diversity," Gokhale said. Foreign Secy Vijay Gokhale: A new mechanism will be established to discuss trade,investment and services,at an elevated level. From China it will be the Vice Premier, Hu Chunhua and from India it will be FM Nirmala Sitharaman pic.twitter.com/msz6pwgU2I — ANI (@ANI) October 12, 2019 × President Xi Jinping invited PM Modi to China for the next summit. "PM Modi has accepted the invitation. Dates will be worked out later," the foreign secretary stated. × The second informal summit between India and China ended on Saturday afternoon after PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held one-on-one talks and delegation-level talks. President Xi left for his Nepal visit from Chennai airport. During the delegation-level talks, PM Modi said that last year's informal summit in Wuhan, China "instilled a new momentum and trust in our relations and today's 'Chennai connect' is the start of a new era in India-China relations". "The first informal summit between India and China last year in Wuhan led to fresh stability in our relations and gave a fresh momentum." he said. Chinese President Xi Jinping said that on Friday he engaged in candid conversations "like friends" with PM Modi. We held "heart to heart discussions on bilateral relations," Xi said. "We are really overwhelmed by your hospitality. My colleagues and I have felt that very strongly. This will be a memorable experience for us," President Xi said.

Good discussion on trade, terror; Kashmir issue wasn't raised: Foreign secretary sums up Modi-Xi summit

The stage is set for the second <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamallapuram-decked-up-for-second-india-china-informal-summit-255062">India-China informal summit</a> between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram/Mamallapuram.&nbsp;

President Xi will be arriving at the Chennai International Airport on Friday afternoon.&nbsp;He will be arriving at Tamil Nadu's scenic coastal town of Mamallapuram today accompanied by China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Politburo members. From the Indian side, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will accompany the Prime Minister.&nbsp;

The Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard are on alert and have deployed warships, at some distance from the shore in Mamallapuram, to provide security from any seaborne threat.

On the first day of Jinping's visit, he will meet PM Modi in Mamallapuram and visit some UNESCO world heritage sites in the evening.

The leaders will get a guided tour of three monuments - Arjuna's penance, an intricately carved ancient sculpture; Krishna's Butter Ball - a big round boulder perched on a slope; and Pancha Rathas - a five chariots monument complex.

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A cultural programme will be organised in honour of the visiting leader at the Shore Temple on Friday evening. Modi will then host the Chinese President for dinner. On Saturday, Modi and Xi will have one-to-one meeting followed by delegation-level talks.

At the informal summit, President Xi and PM Modi are expected to hold discussions on bilateral, regional and global importance and exchange views on deepening India-China Closer Development Partnership, the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, no Memorandum&nbsp;of Understanding (MoU) will be signed between India and China. The nature of the summit will essentially be similar to the first summit that took place in China's Wuhan last year.

The leaders will discuss regional, global and bilateral issues and ways to boost bilateral ties and trade. Shortly before Xi's departure for Nepal, PM Modi will host lunch for Xi on Saturday afternoon.

The historical city of Mamallapuram holds significance for the Xi-Modi meet. The town enjoys a China connection and has had ancient maritime links with the country during the Pallava dynasty.

Xi-Modi meet comes in the backdrop of Beijing supporting Islamabad in raising the matter of abrogation of Article 370. China had criticised New Delhi's move on Kashmir. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi raised the matter at the UN General Assembly last month.

India continues to maintain that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-internal-matter-india-reaffirms-on-eve-of-second-india-china-informal-summit-254806">abrogation of Article 370 is an internal matter</a>.

After a meeting between Xi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Beijing in a joint statement on Wednesday stated that China is "paying close attention to the current situation in Jammu &amp; Kashmir" and that the matter should be "properly and peacefully resolved based on the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements."

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The stage is set for the second India-China informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram/Mamallapuram.

The stage is set for the second India-China informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram/Mamallapuram. President Xi will be arriving at the Chennai International Airport on Friday afternoon. He will be arriving at Tamil Nadu's scenic coastal town of Mamallapuram today accompanied by China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Politburo members. From the Indian side, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will accompany the Prime Minister. The Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard are on alert and have deployed warships, at some distance from the shore in Mamallapuram, to provide security from any seaborne threat. On the first day of Jinping's visit, he will meet PM Modi in Mamallapuram and visit some UNESCO world heritage sites in the evening. The leaders will get a guided tour of three monuments - Arjuna's penance, an intricately carved ancient sculpture; Krishna's Butter Ball - a big round boulder perched on a slope; and Pancha Rathas - a five chariots monument complex. × A cultural programme will be organised in honour of the visiting leader at the Shore Temple on Friday evening. Modi will then host the Chinese President for dinner. On Saturday, Modi and Xi will have one-to-one meeting followed by delegation-level talks. At the informal summit, President Xi and PM Modi are expected to hold discussions on bilateral, regional and global importance and exchange views on deepening India-China Closer Development Partnership, the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, no Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed between India and China. The nature of the summit will essentially be similar to the first summit that took place in China's Wuhan last year. The leaders will discuss regional, global and bilateral issues and ways to boost bilateral ties and trade. Shortly before Xi's departure for Nepal, PM Modi will host lunch for Xi on Saturday afternoon. The historical city of Mamallapuram holds significance for the Xi-Modi meet. The town enjoys a China connection and has had ancient maritime links with the country during the Pallava dynasty. Xi-Modi meet comes in the backdrop of Beijing supporting Islamabad in raising the matter of abrogation of Article 370. China had criticised New Delhi's move on Kashmir. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi raised the matter at the UN General Assembly last month. India continues to maintain that the abrogation of Article 370 is an internal matter. After a meeting between Xi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, Beijing in a joint statement on Wednesday stated that China is "paying close attention to the current situation in Jammu & Kashmir" and that the matter should be "properly and peacefully resolved based on the UN Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions and bilateral agreements." (With inputs from ANI)

Second India-China informal summit: Xi Jinping to meet PM Modi in Mamallapuram today 

The agenda for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-president-xi-jinping-to-arrive-in-chennai-for-second-india-china-informal-summit-will-meet-pm-modi-in-mamallapuram-today-255091">second India-China informal summit</a> seems definite - talks on boosting bilateral ties, trade, connectivity, border security and resolving regional and global issues. The informal summit between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-mamallapuram-ahead-of-informal-summit-with-president-xi-255157">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and Chinese President Xi Jinping will take place in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram/Mamallapuram.

On the first day of Jinping's visit on Friday, he will meet PM Modi in Mamallapuram and visit some UNESCO world heritage sites in the evening. On Saturday, Modi and Xi will have one-to-one meeting followed by delegation-level talks.

Bilateral, regional issues

During the informal summit, President Xi and PM Modi are expected to hold discussions on bilateral, regional and global importance and exchange views on deepening India-China Closer Development Partnership, the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

No MoUs

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, no Memorandum&nbsp;of Understanding (MoU) will be signed between India and China. The nature of the summit will essentially be similar to the first summit that took place in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-xi-summit-in-wuhan-removed-several-misconceptions-between-india-and-china-indian-envoy-177673">Wuhan, China last year</a>.

Border security, confidence-building&nbsp;

The leaders are expected to agree on new security measures along the unsettled border, officials said, in an effort to smooth ties ruffled by differences over Kashmir, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The two sides will move forward on a set of confidence-building measures, an Indian source briefed on the discussions told Reuters.

"Priority will be given to enhancing confidence-building measures and people-to-people exchanges," Reuters quoted a second government source.

Territorial disputes, trade deficit, 5G

The prime minister will also hold one-to-one talks designed for a free exchange of ideas on issues ranging from territorial disputes to India's ballooning trade deficit with China and the question of allowing Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei into India's 5G network.

"Xi will have in-depth communication with Modi on issues that have overall, long-term and strategic significance on bilateral relations, set the tune and guide the direction for the future development of the ties," Chinese state media quoted Vice Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui as saying.

Differences remain

The meet comes in the backdrop of Beijing supporting Islamabad in raising the matter of abrogation of Article 370.&nbsp;

China had criticised New Delhi's move on Kashmir. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi raised the matter at the UN General Assembly last month.

India continues to maintain that the abrogation of Article 370 is an internal matter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/post-wuhan-india-china-decide-to-set-up-militaryhotline-report-134118">Wuhan</a> - a milestone!

Last year, PM Modi visited Wuhan in China for the first informal summit. Former External Affairs Minister late Sushma Swaraj had termed the meeting a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-was-a-milestone-pm-modi-president-xi-have-personal-connect-sushma-swaraj-185698">milestone in bilateral relations</a>".&nbsp;

She added, "the armies of both countries are making effort to strengthen contacts and implement confidence-building measures. This will help to promote peace and tranquillity at India-China border which is an important prerequisite for the smooth development of bilateral relations."

The prime minister had said that the Wuhan summit provided "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-provided-stability-and-momentum-to-india-china-ties-pm-modi-to-xi-226895">stability and momentum</a>" to India-China ties.&nbsp;

The decision to establish the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges was taken during the Wuhan informal summit.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The agenda for the second India-China informal summit seems definite - talks on boosting bilateral ties, trade, connectivity, border security and resolving regional and global issues.

The agenda for the second India-China informal summit seems definite - talks on boosting bilateral ties, trade, connectivity, border security and resolving regional and global issues. The informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will take place in Tamil Nadu's Mahabalipuram/Mamallapuram. On the first day of Jinping's visit on Friday, he will meet PM Modi in Mamallapuram and visit some UNESCO world heritage sites in the evening. On Saturday, Modi and Xi will have one-to-one meeting followed by delegation-level talks. Bilateral, regional issues During the informal summit, President Xi and PM Modi are expected to hold discussions on bilateral, regional and global importance and exchange views on deepening India-China Closer Development Partnership, the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement. No MoUs According to the Ministry of External Affairs, no Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed between India and China. The nature of the summit will essentially be similar to the first summit that took place in Wuhan, China last year. Border security, confidence-building The leaders are expected to agree on new security measures along the unsettled border, officials said, in an effort to smooth ties ruffled by differences over Kashmir, news agency Reuters reported. The two sides will move forward on a set of confidence-building measures, an Indian source briefed on the discussions told Reuters. "Priority will be given to enhancing confidence-building measures and people-to-people exchanges," Reuters quoted a second government source. Territorial disputes, trade deficit, 5G The prime minister will also hold one-to-one talks designed for a free exchange of ideas on issues ranging from territorial disputes to India's ballooning trade deficit with China and the question of allowing Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei into India's 5G network. "Xi will have in-depth communication with Modi on issues that have overall, long-term and strategic significance on bilateral relations, set the tune and guide the direction for the future development of the ties," Chinese state media quoted Vice Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui as saying. Differences remain The meet comes in the backdrop of Beijing supporting Islamabad in raising the matter of abrogation of Article 370. China had criticised New Delhi's move on Kashmir. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi raised the matter at the UN General Assembly last month. India continues to maintain that the abrogation of Article 370 is an internal matter. Wuhan - a milestone! Last year, PM Modi visited Wuhan in China for the first informal summit. Former External Affairs Minister late Sushma Swaraj had termed the meeting a "milestone in bilateral relations". She added, "the armies of both countries are making effort to strengthen contacts and implement confidence-building measures. This will help to promote peace and tranquillity at India-China border which is an important prerequisite for the smooth development of bilateral relations." The prime minister had said that the Wuhan summit provided "stability and momentum" to India-China ties. The decision to establish the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges was taken during the Wuhan informal summit. (With inputs from agencies)

Modi-Xi second informal summit: Focus on border security, boosting trade and bilateral ties 

Goods from India's northeast can now be transported through Bangladeshi territory providing a major boost to connectivity and cutting down the cost and time of travel.&nbsp;

Under the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) signed between Bangladesh and India during PM Sheikh Hasina's India visit, Dhaka has allowed a couple of its major ports - the Chattogram and Mongla Ports - for the movement of goods to and from India through its territory.

Calling the development an outcome of PM Modi's "successful foreign policy", Union Minister of State Shipping (Independent charge) Mansukh Mandaviya said, "shorter distance and coastal shipping benefits will make northeast states' products competitive in the market."

The agreement allows the use of Bangladeshi waterways, rail, road and other means of transport. Eight routes have been provided under the agreement and will connect landlocked Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya.&nbsp;

These routes are Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala in Tripura via Akhura in Bangladesh; Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki in Meghalaya via Tamabil in Bangladesh; Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola in Bangladesh and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur in Tripura via Bibirbazar in Bangladesh.

Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will be directly connected to the sea via Chattogram and Mongla ports and by consequence other Indian ports. 
&nbsp; 
Distance between Kolkata and Agartala by road is 2,000 kilometres, this will reduce to just 810 kilometres since the port of Chattogram is 600 kilometres and the port is 201 kilometres away from Agartala. The second busiest port of Bangladesh, Mongla port is even closer to Kolkata.

Goods from India's northeast can now be transported through Bangladeshi territory providing a major boost to connectivity and cutting down the cost and time of travel.

Goods from India's northeast can now be transported through Bangladeshi territory providing a major boost to connectivity and cutting down the cost and time of travel. Under the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) signed between Bangladesh and India during PM Sheikh Hasina's India visit, Dhaka has allowed a couple of its major ports - the Chattogram and Mongla Ports - for the movement of goods to and from India through its territory. Calling the development an outcome of PM Modi's "successful foreign policy", Union Minister of State Shipping (Independent charge) Mansukh Mandaviya said, "shorter distance and coastal shipping benefits will make northeast states' products competitive in the market." The agreement allows the use of Bangladeshi waterways, rail, road and other means of transport. Eight routes have been provided under the agreement and will connect landlocked Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya. These routes are Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala in Tripura via Akhura in Bangladesh; Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki in Meghalaya via Tamabil in Bangladesh; Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola in Bangladesh and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur in Tripura via Bibirbazar in Bangladesh. Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will be directly connected to the sea via Chattogram and Mongla ports and by consequence other Indian ports. Distance between Kolkata and Agartala by road is 2,000 kilometres, this will reduce to just 810 kilometres since the port of Chattogram is 600 kilometres and the port is 201 kilometres away from Agartala. The second busiest port of Bangladesh, Mongla port is even closer to Kolkata.

Bangladesh allows India to use its territory for movement of goods

<div style="border:0px; margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:start; -webkit-text-stroke-width:0px">
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamallapuram-gets-a-facelift-ahead-of-modi-xi-informal-summit-254322">Ahead of the second Indo-China informal summit</a> that will happen in Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu over the weekend, China has said that ties have seen "sound momentum" and has suggested a dialogue between India and Pakistan to solve the Kashmir issue.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang said, "China and India are important neighbours to each other. Both are large developing countries as well as major emerging markets. Since the Wuhan Informal Summit last year, China-India relations have shown sound momentum of development."

"The two sides have steadily advanced cooperation in various fields and properly manage differences and sensitive issues", Shuang added.&nbsp;

"Both sides are also in communication on the next stage of bilateral high-level exchanges. The two sides should jointly create a favourable atmosphere and environment for high-level exchanges", Shuang said.

The first India China informal summit took place in Wuhan in April of 2018.

On Kashmir, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said that both India and Pakistan must "strengthen dialogue". The Pakistani Prime Minister is currently in China and to hold talks with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

India has always maintained that New Delhi and Islamabad have to bilaterally resolve all matters in accordance with the Simla and Lahore agreements.

China, along with Pakistan has been very vocal at the international stage on Kashmir since New Delhi revoked the special status for the region.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Chinese envoy to India, Sun Weidong in a series of tweets highlighted how China's imports from India have increased by five per cent. Trade deficit has been a major issue for India. The country has asked China many times to open its market for Indian goods especially the pharma sector.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahabalipuram-preparations-in-full-swing-for-informal-summit-between-modi-jinping-254576">Other than trade, both sides will discuss multiple issues.&nbsp;</a>

During last year's Wuhan informal summit, leaders of both India and China gave strategic guidance to forces of both the countries to avoid the repetition of the Doklam crisis.&nbsp;

Other key outcomes of the Wuhan summit included the establishment of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM). The second meet of the mechanism happened earlier this year during External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's China visit. Both sides have also decided to jointly train Afghan diplomats, with the first batch trained last year, and the second due this year.
</div>

Ahead of the second Indo-China informal summit that will happen in Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu over the weekend, China has said that ties have seen "sound momentum" and has suggested a dialogue between India and Pakistan to solve the Kashmir issue.

Ahead of the second Indo-China informal summit that will happen in Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu over the weekend, China has said that ties have seen "sound momentum" and has suggested a dialogue between India and Pakistan to solve the Kashmir issue. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang said, "China and India are important neighbours to each other. Both are large developing countries as well as major emerging markets. Since the Wuhan Informal Summit last year, China-India relations have shown sound momentum of development." "The two sides have steadily advanced cooperation in various fields and properly manage differences and sensitive issues", Shuang added. "Both sides are also in communication on the next stage of bilateral high-level exchanges. The two sides should jointly create a favourable atmosphere and environment for high-level exchanges", Shuang said. The first India China informal summit took place in Wuhan in April of 2018. On Kashmir, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said that both India and Pakistan must "strengthen dialogue". The Pakistani Prime Minister is currently in China and to hold talks with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang. India has always maintained that New Delhi and Islamabad have to bilaterally resolve all matters in accordance with the Simla and Lahore agreements. China, along with Pakistan has been very vocal at the international stage on Kashmir since New Delhi revoked the special status for the region. Meanwhile, Chinese envoy to India, Sun Weidong in a series of tweets highlighted how China's imports from India have increased by five per cent. Trade deficit has been a major issue for India. The country has asked China many times to open its market for Indian goods especially the pharma sector. Other than trade, both sides will discuss multiple issues. During last year's Wuhan informal summit, leaders of both India and China gave strategic guidance to forces of both the countries to avoid the repetition of the Doklam crisis. Other key outcomes of the Wuhan summit included the establishment of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM). The second meet of the mechanism happened earlier this year during External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's China visit. Both sides have also decided to jointly train Afghan diplomats, with the first batch trained last year, and the second due this year.

Chinese foreign ministry says Indo-China ties have shown 'sound momentum' ahead of second informal summit

In two days, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahabalipuram-preparations-in-full-swing-for-informal-summit-between-modi-jinping-254576">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping</a> in the seaside <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamallapuram-gets-a-facelift-ahead-of-modi-xi-informal-summit-254322">heritage town Mamallapuram for an informal summit</a>. While the upcoming visit has been much talked about, there remains a lesser-known visit to Mamallapuram - that of the first Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai in December 1956.&nbsp;

According to the Hindu Newspaper archives, “Prime Minister Zhou Enlai arrived in the then Madras on December 5, 1956 on a two-day visit. He was received at the Meenambakkam airport by Madras Governor Sri Prakasa and others. Later he was accorded a Civic Reception at the Corporation Stadium (now Nehru Stadium) the same day.”

Additionally, “Enlai also visited Mamallapuram and toured the monuments and sculptures on December 6, 1956; while also speaking to the news media on the international situation. During his visit, he also toured the famed Gemini Studio and the Integral Coach Factory (ICF). Governor Sri Prakasa hosted at a banquet at the Raj Bhavan during Zhou’s only visit to Madras”.

After visiting the Integral Coach Factory on December 6, Enlai had written on its guest register, “This is a modern coach factory. It is worthwhile for the Chinese to come and learn. This factory is well-built and well-organised. The technology and training given are very good. It is worthwhile for the Orients to take pride in it.”
<img alt="Images from the magazine" data-caption="&lt;em&gt;Picture credit: Ananda Vikatan&amp;nbsp;&lt;/em&gt;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ee93312-c781-4185-b019-abf1662e4fa1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_32.jpg" />
Photographs from the iconic Ananda Vikatan&nbsp;magazine (above)&nbsp;depict the gathering of thousands that had congregated to welcome Zhou at the then Corporation Stadium. SS&nbsp;Vasan (owner of Gemini Studios), joined by hundreds of his employees had greeted Enlai and taken him on a tour of the property.&nbsp;

Enlai and his delegation witnessed a film shooting in-progress at the studio and also a dance programme by actress Padmini.&nbsp;

The visit concluded after Prime Minister Enlai Departed for Asansol from Meenambakkam airport on December 7, 1956.

The Pallava rulers of Mamallapuram are known to have had defence and trade ties with the Chinese and other South East Asian nations from the early 8th century.&nbsp;

In two days, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping in the seaside heritage town Mamallapuram for an informal summit. While the upcoming visit has been much talked about, there remains a lesser-known visit to Mamallapuram - that of the first Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai in December 1956.

In two days, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping in the seaside heritage town Mamallapuram for an informal summit. While the upcoming visit has been much talked about, there remains a lesser-known visit to Mamallapuram - that of the first Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai in December 1956. According to the Hindu Newspaper archives, “Prime Minister Zhou Enlai arrived in the then Madras on December 5, 1956 on a two-day visit. He was received at the Meenambakkam airport by Madras Governor Sri Prakasa and others. Later he was accorded a Civic Reception at the Corporation Stadium (now Nehru Stadium) the same day.” Additionally, “Enlai also visited Mamallapuram and toured the monuments and sculptures on December 6, 1956; while also speaking to the news media on the international situation. During his visit, he also toured the famed Gemini Studio and the Integral Coach Factory (ICF). Governor Sri Prakasa hosted at a banquet at the Raj Bhavan during Zhou’s only visit to Madras”. After visiting the Integral Coach Factory on December 6, Enlai had written on its guest register, “This is a modern coach factory. It is worthwhile for the Chinese to come and learn. This factory is well-built and well-organised. The technology and training given are very good. It is worthwhile for the Orients to take pride in it.” Photographs from the iconic Ananda Vikatan magazine (above) depict the gathering of thousands that had congregated to welcome Zhou at the then Corporation Stadium. SS Vasan (owner of Gemini Studios), joined by hundreds of his employees had greeted Enlai and taken him on a tour of the property. Enlai and his delegation witnessed a film shooting in-progress at the studio and also a dance programme by actress Padmini. The visit concluded after Prime Minister Enlai Departed for Asansol from Meenambakkam airport on December 7, 1956. The Pallava rulers of Mamallapuram are known to have had defence and trade ties with the Chinese and other South East Asian nations from the early 8th century.

Mamallapuram: Zhou Enlai in 1956 and Modi-Xi in 2019 

The historic town of Mahabalipuram <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-president-to-visit-chennai-for-second-informal-summit-with-pm-modi-253244">is all set to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping</a> for the second informal summit in Tamil Nadu. 
 
The arrangements are in full swing with administration working round the clock to ensure adequate security and cleanliness across the city for the summit. 
 
"We are happy that our area got cleaned as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to visit soon. This is a historic place and now with the expected visit of the two leaders, the city has got cleaner, roads have been repaired and security arrangements have been made," a sculptor told ANI. 
 
"We are happy that our Mahabalipuram will be known globally and tourism will increase because of this visit," he added. 
 
Xi is expected to visit Mahabalipuram for his second informal summit with PM Modi in the coming days. 
 
Earlier in the day, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin expressed happiness over the upcoming visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu for an informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modiam comprising BJP president Amit Shah in both the states.

The historic town of Mahabalipuram is all set to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping for the second informal summit in Tamil Nadu.

The historic town of Mahabalipuram is all set to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping for the second informal summit in Tamil Nadu. The arrangements are in full swing with administration working round the clock to ensure adequate security and cleanliness across the city for the summit. "We are happy that our area got cleaned as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to visit soon. This is a historic place and now with the expected visit of the two leaders, the city has got cleaner, roads have been repaired and security arrangements have been made," a sculptor told ANI. "We are happy that our Mahabalipuram will be known globally and tourism will increase because of this visit," he added. Xi is expected to visit Mahabalipuram for his second informal summit with PM Modi in the coming days. Earlier in the day, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin expressed happiness over the upcoming visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu for an informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modiam comprising BJP president Amit Shah in both the states.

Mahabalipuram: Preparations in full swing for informal summit between Modi, Jinping

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-continues-to-serve-india-with-utmost-dedication-excellence-pm-modi-on-87th-air-force-day-254363">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> is slated to address election rallies in Haryana and Maharashtra, the two states which will go to polls shortly. 
 
Assembly polls in both Haryana and Maharashtra will be held on October 21 and the results will be announced on October 24. 
 
In Maharashtra, Modi will carry out nine rallies from October 14 and is slated to address four rallies in Haryana from October 17. 
 
"BJP is confident about its report card. The work done by the party like abrogation of article 370, triple talaq, NRC, an airstrike is still in people's mind, so we have no tension," said a source. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamallapuram-gets-a-facelift-ahead-of-modi-xi-informal-summit-254322">The Prime Minister will start the rallies</a> just four days before the last date of election campaigning - October 19. 
 
Scores of BJP star campaigners like Piyush Goyal, Prakash Javadekar, Nitin Gadkari, Smriti Irani, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Yogi Adityanath and others will also carry out rallies and election programs, the source revealed. 
 
"Apart from this, around 10,000 BJP workers are working on this platform", the source revealed. 
 
In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had bagged 23 seats in Maharashtra, while the Sena emerged victorious in 18 constituencies. 
 
Whereas in Haryana, the BJP has set a target of bagging over 75 seats in the 90-member Assembly. 
 
"PM will not do any campaigning this week. He will start it after meeting and greeting the President of China," a source privy to the development said. 
 
Xi Jinping is slated to visit the country for an informal summit with Prime Minister Modi in the coming days. 
 
Unlike the last time, both the chief ministers -&nbsp;Devendra Fadnavis and Manohar Lal Khattar -&nbsp;have a good image among the people, the source added. 
 
Unhappy leaders, who did not get the tickets, will be sorted by the team comprising BJP president Amit Shah in both the states.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to address election rallies in Haryana and Maharashtra, the two states which will go to polls shortly. Assembly polls in both Haryana and Maharashtra will be held on October 21 and the results will be announced on October 24.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to address election rallies in Haryana and Maharashtra, the two states which will go to polls shortly. Assembly polls in both Haryana and Maharashtra will be held on October 21 and the results will be announced on October 24. In Maharashtra, Modi will carry out nine rallies from October 14 and is slated to address four rallies in Haryana from October 17. "BJP is confident about its report card. The work done by the party like abrogation of article 370, triple talaq, NRC, an airstrike is still in people's mind, so we have no tension," said a source. The Prime Minister will start the rallies just four days before the last date of election campaigning - October 19. Scores of BJP star campaigners like Piyush Goyal, Prakash Javadekar, Nitin Gadkari, Smriti Irani, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Yogi Adityanath and others will also carry out rallies and election programs, the source revealed. "Apart from this, around 10,000 BJP workers are working on this platform", the source revealed. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had bagged 23 seats in Maharashtra, while the Sena emerged victorious in 18 constituencies. Whereas in Haryana, the BJP has set a target of bagging over 75 seats in the 90-member Assembly. "PM will not do any campaigning this week. He will start it after meeting and greeting the President of China," a source privy to the development said. Xi Jinping is slated to visit the country for an informal summit with Prime Minister Modi in the coming days. Unlike the last time, both the chief ministers - Devendra Fadnavis and Manohar Lal Khattar - have a good image among the people, the source added. Unhappy leaders, who did not get the tickets, will be sorted by the team comprising BJP president Amit Shah in both the states.

PM Modi to address nine election rallies in Maharashtra, four in Haryana

The recruitment drive for a Territorial Army (TA) Battalion in this Jammu and Kashmir town has drawn overwhelming response with youth from forward&nbsp;areas also coming to join the force. 
 
Colonel Ashish Rikhey, CO, 160 TA Battalion, said the recruitment drive was being held for Territorial Army Battalion based in Kupwara. 
 
"This rally is for recruitment to 160 TA battalion. This is the second day of the four-day drive and 4000-5000 youth are expected to participate," he said. 
 
"The response is overwhelming. Quite a large number of youth are from the forward areas like Kandhar, Machil, Gurez and other areas," he said. 
 
Raja Khan, a youth who took part in the rally, said unemployment was very high among the valley youth and Army was a good option. 
 
"I have participated in the race followed by a physical test. I want to say to the youth that they should join the Army as it is a very good force and what they say outside about it is not true," he said. 
 
Naseem Ahmed Khan, another youth who had come to take part in the recruitment process, said they were being treated with respect. "All (the youth) must come here to join the Army. The discipline of the Army is praiseworthy," he said.

The recruitment drive for a Territorial Army (TA) Battalion in this Jammu and Kashmir town has drawn overwhelming response with youth from forward areas also coming to join the force.

The recruitment drive for a Territorial Army (TA) Battalion in this Jammu and Kashmir town has drawn overwhelming response with youth from forward areas also coming to join the force. Colonel Ashish Rikhey, CO, 160 TA Battalion, said the recruitment drive was being held for Territorial Army Battalion based in Kupwara. "This rally is for recruitment to 160 TA battalion. This is the second day of the four-day drive and 4000-5000 youth are expected to participate," he said. "The response is overwhelming. Quite a large number of youth are from the forward areas like Kandhar, Machil, Gurez and other areas," he said. Raja Khan, a youth who took part in the rally, said unemployment was very high among the valley youth and Army was a good option. "I have participated in the race followed by a physical test. I want to say to the youth that they should join the Army as it is a very good force and what they say outside about it is not true," he said. Naseem Ahmed Khan, another youth who had come to take part in the recruitment process, said they were being treated with respect. "All (the youth) must come here to join the Army. The discipline of the Army is praiseworthy," he said.

Youth from J&K border areas take part in Territorial Army recruitment drive

The first-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held at Pragati Maidan here from October 11.

Speaking to ANI, Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said, "The ministries of Agriculture and Commerce and Industry have organised a three-day India International Cooperative trade fair from October 11 to 13. In addition to many co-operatives, more than 35 countries will be taking part in the fair." 
 
The fair has been jointly organised by National Cooperative Development Corporation in association with the Bangkok-based international organisation NEDAC and leading organisations in India like NAFED, APEDA and ITPO. 
 
In addition, six state governments and Union Territories are partners of IICTF. 
 
Bangladesh is also a partner country in the event. 
 
Tomar further said that the joint initiative is getting a good response. During the trade fair, a seminar will also be held in which representatives from different countries will share their experiences and opinions. 
 
In a statement, the Agriculture Ministry said that the event has received an overwhelming response both domestically and abroad. 
 
More than 150 Indian cooperatives, 20 organisations from the Centre, States and Union Territories and 35 countries have purchased exhibition booths so far for participation. 
 
"The trade fair is expected to evolve a conducive environment for cooperative trade in the global arena, help in expansion and diversification of business, technology transfer, help lay international quality benchmark for cooperative products," an official statement read.&nbsp;

The first-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held at Pragati Maidan here from October 11. Speaking to ANI, Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said, "The ministries of Agriculture and Commerce and Industry have organised a three-day India International Cooperative trade fair from October 11 to 13.

The first-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held at Pragati Maidan here from October 11. Speaking to ANI, Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said, "The ministries of Agriculture and Commerce and Industry have organised a three-day India International Cooperative trade fair from October 11 to 13. In addition to many co-operatives, more than 35 countries will be taking part in the fair." The fair has been jointly organised by National Cooperative Development Corporation in association with the Bangkok-based international organisation NEDAC and leading organisations in India like NAFED, APEDA and ITPO. In addition, six state governments and Union Territories are partners of IICTF. Bangladesh is also a partner country in the event. Tomar further said that the joint initiative is getting a good response. During the trade fair, a seminar will also be held in which representatives from different countries will share their experiences and opinions. In a statement, the Agriculture Ministry said that the event has received an overwhelming response both domestically and abroad. More than 150 Indian cooperatives, 20 organisations from the Centre, States and Union Territories and 35 countries have purchased exhibition booths so far for participation. "The trade fair is expected to evolve a conducive environment for cooperative trade in the global arena, help in expansion and diversification of business, technology transfer, help lay international quality benchmark for cooperative products," an official statement read.

First ever India International Cooperative Trade Fair to be held in Delhi

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, and said the effort will come to fruition when justice denied under its influence is restored and Kashmiri Pandits are brought back and rehabilitated. 
 
In his address at the Vijayadashami function of RSS, Bhagwat said the move of the BJP-led regime to nullify Article 370 has once again proved that it has the courage to fulfil&nbsp;expectations and respect people's sentiments and wishes in the interest of the country. 
 
He said the repeal of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, has been on the agenda of the ruling party. The Article was repealed in August this year almost two months after the BJP-led coalition returned to power at the Centre with a greater majority. 
 
"But this time by skilfully garnering the support of other parties in both Houses, with strong logic and plea in consonance with public sentiment, the work was accomplished, for which the members of the ruling party, including the Prime Minister and Home Minister, and other political parties who upheld the public sentiments in Parliament deserve congratulations," he said. 
 
"This effort will come to fruition only when justice denied under the influence of Article 370 is restored, injustices occurred are brought to an end. It will happen when our Kashmiri Pandits who were unjustly driven away are brought back and rehabilitated and allowed to remain secure, fearless, patriotic and Hindu," he added. 
 
Bhagwat said there is also a need to restore the rights of residents which were denied to them. 
 
"Many a right of residents of Kashmir which were denied to them so far will be restored, and false fears instilled in the minds of brothers of the Valley that there is a threat to their property and jobs due to the nullification of Article 370, will be removed and having done away with those fears, they will be able to perform their duties towards the country's development with brotherly affinity and concord with the people of rest of Bharat," he said.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, and said the effort will come to fruition when justice denied under its influence is restored and Kashmiri Pandits are brought back and rehabilitated.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, and said the effort will come to fruition when justice denied under its influence is restored and Kashmiri Pandits are brought back and rehabilitated. In his address at the Vijayadashami function of RSS, Bhagwat said the move of the BJP-led regime to nullify Article 370 has once again proved that it has the courage to fulfil expectations and respect people's sentiments and wishes in the interest of the country. He said the repeal of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, has been on the agenda of the ruling party. The Article was repealed in August this year almost two months after the BJP-led coalition returned to power at the Centre with a greater majority. "But this time by skilfully garnering the support of other parties in both Houses, with strong logic and plea in consonance with public sentiment, the work was accomplished, for which the members of the ruling party, including the Prime Minister and Home Minister, and other political parties who upheld the public sentiments in Parliament deserve congratulations," he said. "This effort will come to fruition only when justice denied under the influence of Article 370 is restored, injustices occurred are brought to an end. It will happen when our Kashmiri Pandits who were unjustly driven away are brought back and rehabilitated and allowed to remain secure, fearless, patriotic and Hindu," he added. Bhagwat said there is also a need to restore the rights of residents which were denied to them. "Many a right of residents of Kashmir which were denied to them so far will be restored, and false fears instilled in the minds of brothers of the Valley that there is a threat to their property and jobs due to the nullification of Article 370, will be removed and having done away with those fears, they will be able to perform their duties towards the country's development with brotherly affinity and concord with the people of rest of Bharat," he said.

Article 370 repeal will come to fruition when Kashmiri pundits return, says RSS chief Bhagwat

India seeks to be a leader in the Climate Change Action, as manifested by its initiatives towards reducing fossil fuel dependency and emissions, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nationalism-is-not-a-negative-sentiment-says-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-253719">External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar</a> said here on Monday, adding that New Delhi would not limit these efforts to its own soil only. 
 
Delivering a keynote address on the occasion of the completion of 55 years of Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, Jaishankar said: "India seeks to be the leader in Climate Change Action. India's initiative of the International Solar Alliance led by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a testimony to the fact that we are committed to a clean and sustainable future for the children of tomorrow. We are fast moving towards the use of clean technologies and e-vehicles for the reduction of fossil fuel dependency and emissions." 
 
Jaishankar noted that the country has the fastest-growing solar energy programme in the world, and has set a target of production of 175 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy as part of the Solar Alliance Initiative and its integration in the main power grid, which are "well on its way to be achieved." 
 
He said that the significance of these achievements lies in the fact that India does not limit its efforts towards climate change action to its soil. 
 
"Much of our development assistance, particularly capacity building through ITEC is geared around training and projects in solar technologies and other renewables in Africa, Caribbean and Pacific island countries." 
 
The Minister noted that&nbsp;developmental cooperation has always played a central role in India's foreign policy and its relations with partner countries are based on the principles of equality, mutual respect for sovereignty and freedom of action and choice. 
 
"It is not based on competition, conditionalities or prescriptions. It stems from the spirit of solidarity to enhance mutual learning for shared and sustainable growth. These are also the cornerstones in our capacity building initiatives which span from Latin American countries to Pacific Island countries, as we traverse similar paths of development," he said. 
 
Recounting the challenges of population resource imbalances, rising inequities, and climate change, among others faced by the developing countries today, the minister said that India is committed to facing these challenges by expanding its "partnership choices in foreign cooperation and (by) resolving to collaborate more closely to press ahead with our SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)." 
 
"Thus, in its own modest way, India has also tried to step-up the material resources and enabling mechanisms, especially in the past one decade in sharing of our development experience with the rest of the world," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-s-jaishankar-meets-us-national-security-advisor-robert-obrien-253610">Some of the steps taken by the MEA</a> in this regard include the setting up of the Development Partnership Administration Division as a dedicated agency within MEA, enhancement of budget allocations for partner countries, increase in the size of the Foreign Service, including the hiring of subject matter experts, increasing number of scholarships. 
 
"Moreover, in all the recent development co-operation initiatives, capacity building has been a central theme. Several announcements for enhancement of ITEC training slots have been made during the recent bilateral visits and also at the various multilateral engagements such as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), IAFS-III, Caribbean Community (CARICOM), FIPIC- to name a few," he said. 
 
He said that such capacity-building efforts by India are in line with the country's neighbourhood first policy. "This is of course not to undermine our efforts of co-operation with our other regional partners which are equally valuable and unique," he said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-s-jaishankar-meets-pompeo-in-washington-253141">Jaishankar said that India is acutely aware</a> of the role of affordable and quality healthcare, professional skills and higher education as determinants of human development. 
 
The minister said he is "delighted to have launched" the e-Vidya Bharti and e-Arogya Bharti, teleeducation and telemedicine project for Africa, "which is one of the largest projects being executed by the Ministry. 
 
"This project will enable African students to access premier Indian education through the comforts of their homes and offer Indian medical expertise to African doctors and patients alike," added Jaishankar

India seeks to be a leader in the Climate Change Action, as manifested by its initiatives towards reducing fossil fuel dependency and emissions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said here on Monday, adding that New Delhi would not limit these efforts to its own soil only.

India seeks to be a leader in the Climate Change Action, as manifested by its initiatives towards reducing fossil fuel dependency and emissions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said here on Monday, adding that New Delhi would not limit these efforts to its own soil only. Delivering a keynote address on the occasion of the completion of 55 years of Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, Jaishankar said: "India seeks to be the leader in Climate Change Action. India's initiative of the International Solar Alliance led by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a testimony to the fact that we are committed to a clean and sustainable future for the children of tomorrow. We are fast moving towards the use of clean technologies and e-vehicles for the reduction of fossil fuel dependency and emissions." Jaishankar noted that the country has the fastest-growing solar energy programme in the world, and has set a target of production of 175 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy as part of the Solar Alliance Initiative and its integration in the main power grid, which are "well on its way to be achieved." He said that the significance of these achievements lies in the fact that India does not limit its efforts towards climate change action to its soil. "Much of our development assistance, particularly capacity building through ITEC is geared around training and projects in solar technologies and other renewables in Africa, Caribbean and Pacific island countries." The Minister noted that developmental cooperation has always played a central role in India's foreign policy and its relations with partner countries are based on the principles of equality, mutual respect for sovereignty and freedom of action and choice. "It is not based on competition, conditionalities or prescriptions. It stems from the spirit of solidarity to enhance mutual learning for shared and sustainable growth. These are also the cornerstones in our capacity building initiatives which span from Latin American countries to Pacific Island countries, as we traverse similar paths of development," he said. Recounting the challenges of population resource imbalances, rising inequities, and climate change, among others faced by the developing countries today, the minister said that India is committed to facing these challenges by expanding its "partnership choices in foreign cooperation and (by) resolving to collaborate more closely to press ahead with our SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)." "Thus, in its own modest way, India has also tried to step-up the material resources and enabling mechanisms, especially in the past one decade in sharing of our development experience with the rest of the world," he said. Some of the steps taken by the MEA in this regard include the setting up of the Development Partnership Administration Division as a dedicated agency within MEA, enhancement of budget allocations for partner countries, increase in the size of the Foreign Service, including the hiring of subject matter experts, increasing number of scholarships. "Moreover, in all the recent development co-operation initiatives, capacity building has been a central theme. Several announcements for enhancement of ITEC training slots have been made during the recent bilateral visits and also at the various multilateral engagements such as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), IAFS-III, Caribbean Community (CARICOM), FIPIC- to name a few," he said. He said that such capacity-building efforts by India are in line with the country's neighbourhood first policy. "This is of course not to undermine our efforts of co-operation with our other regional partners which are equally valuable and unique," he said. Jaishankar said that India is acutely aware of the role of affordable and quality healthcare, professional skills and higher education as determinants of human development. The minister said he is "delighted to have launched" the e-Vidya Bharti and e-Arogya Bharti, teleeducation and telemedicine project for Africa, "which is one of the largest projects being executed by the Ministry. "This project will enable African students to access premier Indian education through the comforts of their homes and offer Indian medical expertise to African doctors and patients alike," added Jaishankar

India seeks to be leader in climate change action, says Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. 
This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5. 
 
"During the official visit of Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of People's Republic of Bangladesh to India, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) wherein Bangladesh allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh before the Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh on October 5, 2019," an official release said. 
 
"The SOP on use of Chattogram and Mongla ports has been finalised after the two countries signed an MoU on June 6, 2015, and an Agreement on October 25, 2018," it said. 
 
The agreement and SOP permit the movement of goods in Bangladesh through waterways, rail, road or multi-modal transport. 
 
Eight routes are provided under the Agreement which would enable access of North East Region (NER) via Bangladesh. 
 
The routes identified comprise Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala (Tripura) via Akhura, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki (Meghalaya) via Tamabil, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur (Tripura) via Bibirbazar and vice versa. 
 
Union Minister of State Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya said that the decision will pave way for the development of the North East region. 
 
"On October 5, an SOP was exchanged between Indian and Bangladesh. It will open gates for development of North East. We would use Mangla and Chatogram ports for connectivity of North East. Logistics cost will decrease. Cargo used to reach North East by rail and road. Now, cargo will go there by inland waterways and sea route from any part of the country," Mandaviya told ANI. 
 
After the SOP, three landlocked states of India viz&nbsp;Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will get access to open sea trade routes from Chattogram and Mongla ports via Indian ports. 
 
Tripura will be connected to Chattogram Port through the Maitree Setu on Feni river at Sabroom in South Tripura and Ramgarh in Bangladesh. While Agartala is 135 kilometres from Sabroom, Chattogram port is 75 kilometres from Sabroom. 
 
"Cargo transportation through IBP waterway route from Kolkata/ Haldia to North East is limited to 2000 ton vessels. Now, larger ships carrying cargo destined for North East can call at Chattogram and Mongla ports thereby increasing trade volumes and reducing logistic costs," an official release said. 
On shipping and maritime affairs, India and Bangladesh have had very close cooperation in the last few years. 
 
"Under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, in addition to the five Ports of Call (POC), Dhubri (India) and Pangaon (Bangladesh) have been added and both countries have agreed to add for more POCs in each country," read the release. 
 
"Dredging has commenced under an MOU signed by the two countries on the development of fairway in selected stretches of Bangladesh waterways with Government of India bearing 80 per cent of the project expenditure and the balance by Government of Bangladesh. Cruise services have also commenced between the two countries promoting people to people contact after an MOU and SOP were signed," it said.

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5.

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5. "During the official visit of Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of People's Republic of Bangladesh to India, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) wherein Bangladesh allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh before the Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh on October 5, 2019," an official release said. "The SOP on use of Chattogram and Mongla ports has been finalised after the two countries signed an MoU on June 6, 2015, and an Agreement on October 25, 2018," it said. The agreement and SOP permit the movement of goods in Bangladesh through waterways, rail, road or multi-modal transport. Eight routes are provided under the Agreement which would enable access of North East Region (NER) via Bangladesh. The routes identified comprise Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala (Tripura) via Akhura, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki (Meghalaya) via Tamabil, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur (Tripura) via Bibirbazar and vice versa. Union Minister of State Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya said that the decision will pave way for the development of the North East region. "On October 5, an SOP was exchanged between Indian and Bangladesh. It will open gates for development of North East. We would use Mangla and Chatogram ports for connectivity of North East. Logistics cost will decrease. Cargo used to reach North East by rail and road. Now, cargo will go there by inland waterways and sea route from any part of the country," Mandaviya told ANI. After the SOP, three landlocked states of India viz Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will get access to open sea trade routes from Chattogram and Mongla ports via Indian ports. Tripura will be connected to Chattogram Port through the Maitree Setu on Feni river at Sabroom in South Tripura and Ramgarh in Bangladesh. While Agartala is 135 kilometres from Sabroom, Chattogram port is 75 kilometres from Sabroom. "Cargo transportation through IBP waterway route from Kolkata/ Haldia to North East is limited to 2000 ton vessels. Now, larger ships carrying cargo destined for North East can call at Chattogram and Mongla ports thereby increasing trade volumes and reducing logistic costs," an official release said. On shipping and maritime affairs, India and Bangladesh have had very close cooperation in the last few years. "Under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, in addition to the five Ports of Call (POC), Dhubri (India) and Pangaon (Bangladesh) have been added and both countries have agreed to add for more POCs in each country," read the release. "Dredging has commenced under an MOU signed by the two countries on the development of fairway in selected stretches of Bangladesh waterways with Government of India bearing 80 per cent of the project expenditure and the balance by Government of Bangladesh. Cruise services have also commenced between the two countries promoting people to people contact after an MOU and SOP were signed," it said.

Bangladesh allows use of Chattogram, Mongla ports for movement of goods to and from India

The troops of Assam Rifles&nbsp;have seized drugs worth Rs 1.23 crore in Khudengthabi area of Assam's Tengnoupal district. 
 
The search teams, after receiving specific inputs regarding the transportation of drugs, increased vigilance in the area. They tracked two persons and chased them. 
 
The men evaded the teams by running into the nearby forest area. However, a bag containing brown sugar was recovered from the spot. The incident happened on October 5. 
 
"The recovered items have been handed over to the Moreh police station for further investigation," Assam Rifles said in an official statement.

The troops of Assam Rifles have seized drugs worth Rs 1.23 crore in Khudengthabi area of Assam's Tengnoupal district. The search teams, after receiving specific inputs regarding the transportation of drugs, increased vigilance in the area.

The troops of Assam Rifles have seized drugs worth Rs 1.23 crore in Khudengthabi area of Assam's Tengnoupal district. The search teams, after receiving specific inputs regarding the transportation of drugs, increased vigilance in the area. They tracked two persons and chased them. The men evaded the teams by running into the nearby forest area. However, a bag containing brown sugar was recovered from the spot. The incident happened on October 5. "The recovered items have been handed over to the Moreh police station for further investigation," Assam Rifles said in an official statement.

Assam Rifles seizes drugs worth Rs 1.2 crore

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Monday demanded that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rbi-credit-policy-central-bank-cuts-rate-by-25-bps-to-515-253663">Reserve Bank of India (RBI)</a> should take over the operations of the Punjab and Maharashtra Co-operative Bank (PMCB) and the money of account holders should be given back to them.

While talking to media persons here, SAD leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa said: "We have three demands: The operations of PMC Bank should be taken over by the RBI.

''The account holders should be informed about their money. There should be no sanctions on the withdrawal of money from the accounts", he said. He also demanded that all assets of the promoters of HDIL - Rakesh and Sarang Wadhawan - should be frozen.

"The money in PMC Bank belonged to the people. Rolls Royce and Bentley cars were purchased by Wadhawan. We request that our demands should be met and money is returned", he said.

Sirsa said that the people have not given money to a chit fund or a finance company but to the PMC Bank, which is governed by the RBI.

He said that 74 per cent of the money of the bank was given to one company HDIL as loans.

"Wadhawan and his son used that money for purchasing jets, and luxury cars. We want our money bank," he said.

Commenting about the PMC Bank, Sirsa said: "It is a cooperative bank but is governed by the RBI. All its formats are decided by the RBI. Therefore, the responsibility lies with the RBI."&nbsp;

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Monday demanded that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should take over the operations of the Punjab and Maharashtra Co-operative Bank (PMCB) and the money of account holders should be given back to them.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Monday demanded that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should take over the operations of the Punjab and Maharashtra Co-operative Bank (PMCB) and the money of account holders should be given back to them. While talking to media persons here, SAD leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa said: "We have three demands: The operations of PMC Bank should be taken over by the RBI. ''The account holders should be informed about their money. There should be no sanctions on the withdrawal of money from the accounts", he said. He also demanded that all assets of the promoters of HDIL - Rakesh and Sarang Wadhawan - should be frozen. "The money in PMC Bank belonged to the people. Rolls Royce and Bentley cars were purchased by Wadhawan. We request that our demands should be met and money is returned", he said. Sirsa said that the people have not given money to a chit fund or a finance company but to the PMC Bank, which is governed by the RBI. He said that 74 per cent of the money of the bank was given to one company HDIL as loans. "Wadhawan and his son used that money for purchasing jets, and luxury cars. We want our money bank," he said. Commenting about the PMC Bank, Sirsa said: "It is a cooperative bank but is governed by the RBI. All its formats are decided by the RBI. Therefore, the responsibility lies with the RBI."

Reserve Bank of India should take over Punjab Maharashtra Cooperative Bank, says Shrimoni Akali Dal leader Sirsa

The Asia pacific group (APG) of the Financial Action Task Force in its mutual evaluation report has said Pakistan hasn't taken sufficient action to implement sanctions under the United Nation Security Committee of 1267 on 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed and country "faces significant money laundering and terror financing risks" Releasing the Mutual Evaluation Report of Pakistan adopted during the annual meet in Canberra, Australia in August, APG said, "Pakistan has not taken sufficient measures to fully implement UNSCR 1267 obligations against all listed individuals and entities – especially those associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)/Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), and Falah-i-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) as well as the groups’leader Hafiz Saeed.

The Asia pacific group (APG) of the Financial Action Task Force in its mutual evaluation report has said Pakistan hasn't taken sufficient action to implement sanctions under the United Nation Security Committee of 1267 on 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed and country "faces significant money laundering and terror financing risks" Releasing the Mutual Evaluation Report of Pakistan adopted during the annual meet in Canberra, Australia in August, APG said, "Pakistan has not taken sufficient measures to fully implement UNSCR 1267 obligations against all listed individuals and entities – especially those associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)/Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), and Falah-i-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) as well as the groups’leader Hafiz Saeed." The development comes days after Pakistan approached the United Nations security council (UNSC) to allow Saeed, a UN listed global terrorist, draw up to Pakistani rupees 150,000 from his accounts every month for his "basic expenses". The APG rapped the central bank, State Bank of Pakistan, and said it does not have a "clear understanding of the money laundering and terror financing risks unique to the sectors it supervises" and the market regulator Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan for not implementing "a risk-based supervisory approach." Calling Pakistan to "adequately identify, assess and understand" risks associated with "terrorist groups operating in Pakistan such as Da’esh,AQ, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, HQN', the 41 member grouping said Islamabad should "implement a comprehensive and coordinated risk-based approach" to combat money laundering and terror financing. The report is released just days before the FATF's plenary meet in Paris from October 13-18 which could decide if Pakistan could be blacklisted or removed from the grey list. The mutual evaluation report also highlighted how terrorist groups operating in Pakistan such as ISIS-Khorasan, Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan, Quetta Shura Taliban, Haqqani Network, and Lashkar-e-Taiba (including its affiliates Jamaat-ud-Dawa and Falah-i-Insaniat Foundation) "raise funds through a variety of means including direct support, public fundraising". Pakistan faces significant risks of terror financing both from legitimate and illegitimate sources "as well as weak, regulation/supervision of certain sectors (such as hawala/hundi, NPOs (Non-Profit Organizations) and DNFBPs (Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions) and porous borders." Pakistan was put on greylist by the FATF last year and it's causing a loss of $10 billion to Pakistani economy annually. A blacklist will further have a detrimental impact on a weak Pakistani economy as investors won't be keen to invest in a country that is prone to terror financing.

Pakistan wanting in implementing  UN sanctions on Hafiz Saeed: FATF subgroup findings

In a bid to increase Bangladesh's maritime domain and keep an eye on the shared Indo-Bangla coast, the Indian government to build a coastal surveillance system in the country. This will be the second surveillance system New Delhi will be building in the neighbourhood after the one Maldives.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is on a state visit to India, met her Indian counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday in New Delhi. The&nbsp;duo also inaugurated three projects in energy, skill and social areas through remote control on the occasion.&nbsp;

They also inaugurated e-plaque for Bangladesh-India professional skill development institute at the Institute of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh, Khulna and Vivekananda Bhavan at Ram Krishna mission in Dhaka.

Contentious issues including Teesta were taken up for discussion during the meeting of the two&nbsp;leaders.&nbsp;

Hasina sought to highlight the implementation" of Teesta waters sharing agreement, to which PM Modi said his government was working with all stakeholders in India for the conclusion of the Agreement soonest possible.

Modi also appreciated "Bangladesh’s generosity in sheltering and providing humanitarian assistance" to Rohingya Refugees displaced from Myanmar.&nbsp;

NRC in Assam was raised by the Bangladeshi side with an Indian government source saying "matter did come and we pointed out that it was the ongoing process and we have to wait for the outcome. Its court-mandated and court directed."

To boost people to people ties and connectivity, Bangladesh has decided to remove restrictions on products being traded through Akhaura-Agartala port. Frequency of Maitree Express has been increased from four to five times per week and that of Bandhan Express from one to two per week. Both sides have agreed on the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on the use of Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods from India's northeast to rest to India over Bangladeshi territory.&nbsp;

PM Modi likely to visit Bangladesh in March, 2020.&nbsp;

In a bid to increase Bangladesh's maritime domain and keep an eye on the shared Indo-Bangla coast, the Indian government to build a coastal surveillance system in the country.

In a bid to increase Bangladesh's maritime domain and keep an eye on the shared Indo-Bangla coast, the Indian government to build a coastal surveillance system in the country. This will be the second surveillance system New Delhi will be building in the neighbourhood after the one Maldives. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is on a state visit to India, met her Indian counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday in New Delhi. The duo also inaugurated three projects in energy, skill and social areas through remote control on the occasion. They also inaugurated e-plaque for Bangladesh-India professional skill development institute at the Institute of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh, Khulna and Vivekananda Bhavan at Ram Krishna mission in Dhaka. Contentious issues including Teesta were taken up for discussion during the meeting of the two leaders. Hasina sought to highlight the implementation" of Teesta waters sharing agreement, to which PM Modi said his government was working with all stakeholders in India for the conclusion of the Agreement soonest possible. Modi also appreciated "Bangladesh’s generosity in sheltering and providing humanitarian assistance" to Rohingya Refugees displaced from Myanmar. NRC in Assam was raised by the Bangladeshi side with an Indian government source saying "matter did come and we pointed out that it was the ongoing process and we have to wait for the outcome. Its court-mandated and court directed." To boost people to people ties and connectivity, Bangladesh has decided to remove restrictions on products being traded through Akhaura-Agartala port. Frequency of Maitree Express has been increased from four to five times per week and that of Bandhan Express from one to two per week. Both sides have agreed on the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on the use of Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods from India's northeast to rest to India over Bangladeshi territory. PM Modi likely to visit Bangladesh in March, 2020.

India to build coastal surveillance system in Bangladesh 

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met with PM Modi on Saturday in New Delhi. Both the leaders inaugurated three key bilateral projects and held bilateral talks.&nbsp;

India and Bangladesh signed as many as seven Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) under which India will provide coastal surveillance to Bangladesh.&nbsp;India and Bangladesh also signed an agreement on education.&nbsp;

New Delhi will withdraw water from River Feni for drinking.&nbsp;

PM Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart unveiled a&nbsp; bulk LPG import plan from Bangladesh.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi: I am glad that I got an opportunity to inaugurate 3 more bilateral projects between India &amp; Bangladesh today. In one year, we have inaugurated total 12 joint projects. <a href="https://t.co/0liiNj3keh">pic.twitter.com/0liiNj3keh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1180391632857780224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Within a year, India and Bangladesh have undertaken a dozen projects. We launched nine projects via video link, it is an achievement and a new milestone in our bilateral ties," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

The prime minister said that the three bilateral projects which were inaugurated today are extremely crucial for the India-Bangladesh ties.&nbsp;

"The projects are on LPG import from Bangladesh, vocational training and social facility. The motive of our projects are always to benefit our citizens and improve the quality of their life," Modi stated.&nbsp;

The prime minister added that the projects create a "win-win" situation for both the nations as they will lead to boosting financial situation, employment and income generation.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina hoped that the projects will make bilateral trade relations between India and Bangladesh more dynamic. She added that LPG bulk import from Bangladesh to India will meet the demand for fuel energy in India's northeast region.&nbsp;

PM Modi and Hasina had previously met each other on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York last month.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in a weekly press conference, said that the talks will revolve around trade and connectivity, development cooperation, people to people contact, culture and other issues of mutual interest.

The Bangladeshi Prime Minister is on a four-day visit to India.

Hasina also addressed the World Economic Forum's 33rd India Economic Summit in New Delhi, as the chief guest, on October 3, wherein the Prime Minister sought for more investments in Bangladesh. She met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar this morning.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

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Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met with PM Modi on Saturday in New Delhi. Both the leaders inaugurated three key bilateral projects and held bilateral talks.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met with PM Modi on Saturday in New Delhi. Both the leaders inaugurated three key bilateral projects and held bilateral talks. India and Bangladesh signed as many as seven Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) under which India will provide coastal surveillance to Bangladesh. India and Bangladesh also signed an agreement on education. New Delhi will withdraw water from River Feni for drinking. PM Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart unveiled a bulk LPG import plan from Bangladesh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi: I am glad that I got an opportunity to inaugurate 3 more bilateral projects between India & Bangladesh today. In one year, we have inaugurated total 12 joint projects. pic.twitter.com/0liiNj3keh — ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2019 × "Within a year, India and Bangladesh have undertaken a dozen projects. We launched nine projects via video link, it is an achievement and a new milestone in our bilateral ties," PM Modi said. The prime minister said that the three bilateral projects which were inaugurated today are extremely crucial for the India-Bangladesh ties. "The projects are on LPG import from Bangladesh, vocational training and social facility. The motive of our projects are always to benefit our citizens and improve the quality of their life," Modi stated. The prime minister added that the projects create a "win-win" situation for both the nations as they will lead to boosting financial situation, employment and income generation. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina hoped that the projects will make bilateral trade relations between India and Bangladesh more dynamic. She added that LPG bulk import from Bangladesh to India will meet the demand for fuel energy in India's northeast region. PM Modi and Hasina had previously met each other on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York last month. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in a weekly press conference, said that the talks will revolve around trade and connectivity, development cooperation, people to people contact, culture and other issues of mutual interest. The Bangladeshi Prime Minister is on a four-day visit to India. Hasina also addressed the World Economic Forum's 33rd India Economic Summit in New Delhi, as the chief guest, on October 3, wherein the Prime Minister sought for more investments in Bangladesh. She met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar this morning.

India-Bangladesh friendship aims to benefit citizens, improve their quality of life: PM Modi

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison will visit India in January 2020; his first visit to India after taking charge as the prime minister.

Addressing the Sydney town hall Scott Morrison said, "So I am honoured to accept the invitation of my friend Prime Minister Modi to visit India in January, including to deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue."

"My visit will be another step in cementing India in the top tier of Australia’s partnerships," the Australian PM added.&nbsp;

Morrison will be accompanied by a high-level business delegation that will be led by Ashok Jacob, Chair of the Australia-India Council Board.

Calling India "natural partner for Australia", Morrison said, "India is a great success story of our region. A land of durable institutions and shared values."

Speaking on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Free Trade Agreement (RCEP FTA)- which is being negotiated between 16 countries which including ASEAN, India, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea - Morrison said, "it will draw India more substantially into the Indo-Pacific economy."&nbsp;

RCEP FTA, once concluded, will have a combined population of 3.5 billion and a combined GDP of $25.7 billion.

Last week, the foreign ministers of the US, Australia, India and Japan met for the first time in New York. Both Australia and India are keen on the emerging Indo-Pacific concept which is based on ASEAN centrality.

PM Modi first visited Australia in 2014 for the G20 Summit.

The Australian PM had called PM Modi on May 23 to congratulate him on his victory in 17th Lok Sabha elections. During the same conversation, PM Modi also congratulated "Prime Minister Morrison for guiding his Liberal-National Coalition Party to victory in recently concluded elections in Australia," a Ministry of External Affairs release said.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison will visit India in January 2020; his first visit to India after taking charge as the prime minister. Addressing the Sydney town hall Scott Morrison said, "So I am honoured to accept the invitation of my friend Prime Minister Modi to visit India in January, including to deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison will visit India in January 2020; his first visit to India after taking charge as the prime minister. Addressing the Sydney town hall Scott Morrison said, "So I am honoured to accept the invitation of my friend Prime Minister Modi to visit India in January, including to deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue." "My visit will be another step in cementing India in the top tier of Australia’s partnerships," the Australian PM added. Morrison will be accompanied by a high-level business delegation that will be led by Ashok Jacob, Chair of the Australia-India Council Board. Calling India "natural partner for Australia", Morrison said, "India is a great success story of our region. A land of durable institutions and shared values." Speaking on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Free Trade Agreement (RCEP FTA)- which is being negotiated between 16 countries which including ASEAN, India, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea - Morrison said, "it will draw India more substantially into the Indo-Pacific economy." RCEP FTA, once concluded, will have a combined population of 3.5 billion and a combined GDP of $25.7 billion. Last week, the foreign ministers of the US, Australia, India and Japan met for the first time in New York. Both Australia and India are keen on the emerging Indo-Pacific concept which is based on ASEAN centrality. PM Modi first visited Australia in 2014 for the G20 Summit. The Australian PM had called PM Modi on May 23 to congratulate him on his victory in 17th Lok Sabha elections. During the same conversation, PM Modi also congratulated "Prime Minister Morrison for guiding his Liberal-National Coalition Party to victory in recently concluded elections in Australia," a Ministry of External Affairs release said.

Australian PM to visit India in January; calls India a natural partner

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