It was an emotional moment for the Ansari family when the parents hugged their son soon after he crossed the Attari-Wagah border and walked onto Indian territory.

Indian national Hamid Nihal Ansari, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hamid-nihal-ansari-in-jail-in-pak-for-6-years-crosses-back-over-into-india-185105">who crossed back over into India on Tuesda</a>y,&nbsp;said a prayer with his family, and hugged his mother as soon as he stepped foot on Indian territory.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The 33-year-old could be seen consoling his mother, Fauzia, who was unable to fight back tears and kept hugging and kissing her son who was being reunited with the family after six years.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Ansari's mother had told reporters that the prayers of the family and of all those who wished for his safe return had been answered. She stated that she didn't have words to describe her feelings.

"I am immensely happy today. I don't have words to describe my feelings."

His father, Nihal Ansari, said, "It is a new dawn for us".

Hamid Ansari was received by Indian officials at the Attari-Wagah route and crossed over into Indian territory after the conclusion of the beating-retreat ceremony. He crossed over to India on the basis of emergency travel certificate issued by the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Indian national Hamid Ansari crosses the Attari-Wagah border to reach India. He was lodged in a jail in Pakistan and was released today. <a href="https://t.co/FYJAlAZGac">pic.twitter.com/FYJAlAZGac</a>
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Ansari, a software engineer from Mumbai, had spent around six years in a Pakistan jail. He was arrested in 2012 for illegally entering Pakistan from Afghanistan, reportedly to meet a girl he had befriended online.

Ansari was first sentenced to three years' imprisonment by a military court in 2015 for possessing a fake Pakistani identity card. The Mumbai resident's term ended on December 15, but he was not able to leave for India as his legal documents were not ready, news agency PTI reported. &nbsp;

Ansari was taken for his medical checkup immediately after his return. The Peshawar High Court, last Thursday, had given the Pakistan government a month's deadline to complete his repatriation process.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday termed it an event of "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/its-a-matter-of-great-relief-mea-on-hamid-ansaris-release-from-pak-jail-184890">great relief</a>" after learning about Ansari's release for Pak jail.&nbsp;

"It's a matter of great relief, especially for family members, that 6 yrs of incarceration is coming to an end. We would like Pakistan to take action to also end the misery of other Indian nationals and fishermen whose nationality has been confirmed and who've completed their sentences, but continue to languish in Pakistan jails." the MEA stated.&nbsp;

"We hope Pakistan would respond and organize an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee so that issues of prisoners can be dealt with in a humanitarian and timely manner," the MEA added.&nbsp;

It was an emotional moment for the Ansari family when the parents hugged their son soon after he crossed the Attari-Wagah border and walked onto Indian territory.

It was an emotional moment for the Ansari family when the parents hugged their son soon after he crossed the Attari-Wagah border and walked onto Indian territory. Indian national Hamid Nihal Ansari, who crossed back over into India on Tuesday, said a prayer with his family, and hugged his mother as soon as he stepped foot on Indian territory. The 33-year-old could be seen consoling his mother, Fauzia, who was unable to fight back tears and kept hugging and kissing her son who was being reunited with the family after six years. Earlier in the day, Ansari's mother had told reporters that the prayers of the family and of all those who wished for his safe return had been answered. She stated that she didn't have words to describe her feelings. "I am immensely happy today. I don't have words to describe my feelings." His father, Nihal Ansari, said, "It is a new dawn for us". Hamid Ansari was received by Indian officials at the Attari-Wagah route and crossed over into Indian territory after the conclusion of the beating-retreat ceremony. He crossed over to India on the basis of emergency travel certificate issued by the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. #WATCH: Indian national Hamid Ansari crosses the Attari-Wagah border to reach India. He was lodged in a jail in Pakistan and was released today. pic.twitter.com/FYJAlAZGac — ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2018 × Ansari, a software engineer from Mumbai, had spent around six years in a Pakistan jail. He was arrested in 2012 for illegally entering Pakistan from Afghanistan, reportedly to meet a girl he had befriended online. Ansari was first sentenced to three years' imprisonment by a military court in 2015 for possessing a fake Pakistani identity card. The Mumbai resident's term ended on December 15, but he was not able to leave for India as his legal documents were not ready, news agency PTI reported. Ansari was taken for his medical checkup immediately after his return. The Peshawar High Court, last Thursday, had given the Pakistan government a month's deadline to complete his repatriation process. The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday termed it an event of "great relief" after learning about Ansari's release for Pak jail. "It's a matter of great relief, especially for family members, that 6 yrs of incarceration is coming to an end. We would like Pakistan to take action to also end the misery of other Indian nationals and fishermen whose nationality has been confirmed and who've completed their sentences, but continue to languish in Pakistan jails." the MEA stated. "We hope Pakistan would respond and organize an early visit of Joint Judicial Committee so that issues of prisoners can be dealt with in a humanitarian and timely manner," the MEA added.

Hamid Nihal Ansari returns home: His mother cried, hugged him, he consoled her

Exclusive visuals of Hamid Ansari post his release

India celebrates Vijay Diwas today to mark victory over Pakistan in 1971 war

Maldives President Ibrahim Solih to arrive in India today

The Bangladesh government on Sunday felicitated Indian soldiers who were killed in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.

The government felicitated the families of 12 Indian soldiers --&nbsp;seven martyrs from the Indian Army, one from the Navy, two from the Air Force and two from the BSF. This is the second time that the Bangladesh government is honouring Indian soldiers.

The Bangladesh government sent a delegation to the Vijay Diwas programme in Kolkata on Sunday. The delegation was led by Member of Parliament, Madam Quazi Rosy and Bangladesh Liberation War Affairs Minister, Mozzamal Haque.

“This is for the first time when a Prime Minister has taken such a step to honour soldiers in their very country. Only Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina can do this. We are indebted towards India for liberating us. We can never forget what they did for us. No other nation can lay down their lives on the line of duty for some other nation,” said Haque. &nbsp;

“This was the second time that the honours were being presented to the families of martyrs of Indian forces who fought the Liberation War. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took the first initiative during her visit to Delhi in April 2017 when she met the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” added Haque.

The&nbsp;event took place in a joint ceremony at Fort William, Kolkata and was hosted by the Indian Army and the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission.

&nbsp;A 72-member delegation from Bangladesh, including 30 Mukti Joddhas and six serving officers of their armed forces, participated in the ceremony. Former Army commanders and the commanding officers of units that participated in the war also attended the programme in Kolkata.

A silver crest, a certificate, a personalized message by Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two books by Bangabandhu Mujibar Rahman were presented to the families of each martyr.&nbsp;

“The Bangladeshi delegation felicitated our soldiers today. It is a great move as this will strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh. This is the second such initiative taken by the Bangladesh government. Our soldiers fought alongside to liberate Bangladesh and this day is observed as Victory Day in Bangladesh and we celebrate it as Vijay Diwas,” said Eastern Army Commander, Lt. Gen MM Naravane. &nbsp;

The Bangladesh government on Sunday felicitated Indian soldiers who were killed in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. The government felicitated the families of 12 Indian soldiers -- seven martyrs from the Indian Army, one from the Navy, two from the Air Force and two from the BSF.

The Bangladesh government on Sunday felicitated Indian soldiers who were killed in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. The government felicitated the families of 12 Indian soldiers -- seven martyrs from the Indian Army, one from the Navy, two from the Air Force and two from the BSF. This is the second time that the Bangladesh government is honouring Indian soldiers. The Bangladesh government sent a delegation to the Vijay Diwas programme in Kolkata on Sunday. The delegation was led by Member of Parliament, Madam Quazi Rosy and Bangladesh Liberation War Affairs Minister, Mozzamal Haque. “This is for the first time when a Prime Minister has taken such a step to honour soldiers in their very country. Only Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina can do this. We are indebted towards India for liberating us. We can never forget what they did for us. No other nation can lay down their lives on the line of duty for some other nation,” said Haque. “This was the second time that the honours were being presented to the families of martyrs of Indian forces who fought the Liberation War. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took the first initiative during her visit to Delhi in April 2017 when she met the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” added Haque. The event took place in a joint ceremony at Fort William, Kolkata and was hosted by the Indian Army and the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission. A 72-member delegation from Bangladesh, including 30 Mukti Joddhas and six serving officers of their armed forces, participated in the ceremony. Former Army commanders and the commanding officers of units that participated in the war also attended the programme in Kolkata. A silver crest, a certificate, a personalized message by Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two books by Bangabandhu Mujibar Rahman were presented to the families of each martyr. “The Bangladeshi delegation felicitated our soldiers today. It is a great move as this will strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh. This is the second such initiative taken by the Bangladesh government. Our soldiers fought alongside to liberate Bangladesh and this day is observed as Victory Day in Bangladesh and we celebrate it as Vijay Diwas,” said Eastern Army Commander, Lt. Gen MM Naravane.

Bangladesh felicitates Indian soldiers who died in 1971 Liberation War

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal.&nbsp;

Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik. He also spoke China's plan to have a polar silk route, Pakistan's status as a Major Non-Nato Ally (Iceland is Nato Country), Climate change, Brexit and future of European Union (EU). He also called on Bollywood (Gerua song from Bollywood movie Dilwale was shot in Iceland) to shoot more movies in Iceland.&nbsp;

WION: What is the focus of your India visit?

Gudlaugur Thor: We want to strengthen ties between India and Iceland. Obviously, we are very different. You are big populated, a superpower in every way. We are a small country but we share many similarities. We share the same values. Relations between India and Iceland always been good with a lot of opportunities.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in the Arctic Council?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, in the Arctic Council, we have Nordic countries like Russia, Canada, US. Other large countries, especially in Asia, are very important. When it comes to research and the scientific method, we are not going alone. We also need to have an international law when it comes to transportation and exploring natural resources. Because what we seeing now is shorting of the distances of sailing routes. Routes between Asia and Europe shorten by 40 per cent when the sailing route is open. Same when we saw Suez and Panama canal was opened. Its very important arctic is the peaceful area, low tension area. The only way is we work with all the stakeholder and India is a large stakeholder.

WION: Gerua song from Dilwale movie was shot in Iceland. Would like more Bollywood movies to be shot in Iceland?&nbsp;

Gudlaugur Thor: Gerua is a very beautiful video, well recognised. We didn't know how famous these actors are. We realized it when they come to Iceland. People who knew them, Indian tourist were very interested. &nbsp;We see a beautiful video. We know that Iceland film industry interested in working with the Indian film industry. Its been very successful. We see a lot of opportunities. Things you see in the video are not far away and it is easy to go.

WION: How popular is yoga in Iceland?

Gudlaugur Thor: It is not only yoga. Indian cuisine very popular. My favourite restaurant in Iceland is an Indian restaurant. Indian spices and Icelandic lamb go hand in hand.

WION: India has been calling for reforms at UN. Do you back India's bid at UNSC seat?

Gudlaugur Thor: We totally agree when it comes to UN reforms. It is good that Secretary-General emphasised on that. We have supported India at the security council. Actually, we find it is important that India has a regular role. We are not optimistic changes will happen. When it comes to value, Iceland and India do agree. That is why we both support UN reforms and support India to UNSC.

WION: But you don't sound optimistic?&nbsp;

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, there is someone who is dragging the reforms. We want UN to be a much more efficient instrument. Security Council should not block things.

WION: Your take on China's Polar Silk Road?

Gudlaugur Thor: In general its good that we are building infrastructure project around the world. But very important that all multilateralism based on values we have built so far. Find it essential, the multilateralism should be based on rule of law, human rights and democratic values.

WION: China says its a near arctic country. Do you think so?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well it is important we work together on multilateralism when it comes to the Arctic. Of course, when we look at the Arctic, we need to look at the people. there are 4 million people in the Arctic. Can't make decisions without them. we also need transportations when it comes to exploiting resources. we need some kind of structure. That is why we supported India, China's observer status at the Arctic Council. Everyone needs to be on the table when you are discussing those topics. Otherwise, we won't succeed. The main thing is that the Arctic remains a low tension and peaceful area.

WION: Your take on Arctic report saying the Arctic faces danger?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, the challenge is there. No doubt about it. &nbsp;I am an optimist. We need to address it and do it together. Iceland can't do alone. Even India can't do alone. I see the positive sign, lot of enthusiasm when it comes to fighting against climate change.

WION: But a Major country has withdrawn from the Paris Climate deal?

Gudlaugur Thor: Yes, but at the same time, both states in the US and huge firms and cities are more enthusiastic than ever when it comes fighting climate change. It is not all bleak. It needs to be discussed and we need to listen to voices who are concerned. We can't ignore that. Because if we do we can do in an open and transparent manner based on scientific knowledge.

WION: Europe is not going through a positive phase?

Gudlaugur Thor: Europe is not about institutions. There are challenges they need to sort out. European nations working together. Europe has layers of cooperation. It's not only EU. there is EFTA, NATO, EEA, EUROZONE. We have layers of cooperation. The best way is to approach is via the a la carte way. &nbsp;If we do that it will lower the tension. It's not me who makes a decision. We are outside EU.

WION:&nbsp;What are the advantages of staying away from EU. You are not part of EU?

Gudlaugur Thor: These are challenges we hope are resolved. Its very important they are resolved. We are not part of EU, these are our friends and allies, we wish them all the best so that they can try to find some solution. Its clear advantage we not part of EU. we have access to European markets. Very important for us. We need free trade all around the world. A perfect example of the importance of free trade. We used to be poor and we would still be poor if we didn't have access to others markets and our markets are not open. Every once in while this idea of protectionism comes up. It is always a bad idea. We are just emphasizing the importance of free trade.

WION: Would you like to sign FTA with India. ?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;Defiantly. The policy is to have a free trade agreement between EFTA and India. It is a good idea. you will only benefit from it. you will never lose by having FTA with EFTA.&nbsp;

WION: What suggestion would you like to give to British PM May?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;From the start, Brexit has been a priority for us. The UK is our 2nd most important trading partner. Fifth largest economy. We are saying do not put any trade restrictions in Europe. Think in a constructive way. If we can be part of the solution. For example, if UK would like to be part of EFTA or EEA we should look in a positive way. It will be awful if we see trade restrictions in Europe in future. It is just, we should try to work in a constructive way and look long term. We should think about people in Europe and not institution.

WION: You are part of NATO. US president is calling for budget cuts. Your take?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;NATO is an extremely important organization. NATO is the cornerstone of our foreign policy, a stronger supporter of NATO and it needs to be strengthened. And we are seeing that, since 2014 increase in the defence budget. It going in the right direction. And we need to have to strong defence, for reasons we all know.&nbsp;

WION: Voices in Washington say Pakistan should be removed from its status of major non-NATO ally. Your thoughts?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;We need to fight terrorism. NATO has emphasised on Europe 360 degree. But also emphasising on the fight against terror &amp; cyber attacks. We can not forget we need to fight terror every way we can, only message we give.

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik.

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik. He also spoke China's plan to have a polar silk route, Pakistan's status as a Major Non-Nato Ally (Iceland is Nato Country), Climate change, Brexit and future of European Union (EU). He also called on Bollywood (Gerua song from Bollywood movie Dilwale was shot in Iceland) to shoot more movies in Iceland. WION: What is the focus of your India visit? Gudlaugur Thor: We want to strengthen ties between India and Iceland. Obviously, we are very different. You are big populated, a superpower in every way. We are a small country but we share many similarities. We share the same values. Relations between India and Iceland always been good with a lot of opportunities. WION: How do you see India's role in the Arctic Council? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, in the Arctic Council, we have Nordic countries like Russia, Canada, US. Other large countries, especially in Asia, are very important. When it comes to research and the scientific method, we are not going alone. We also need to have an international law when it comes to transportation and exploring natural resources. Because what we seeing now is shorting of the distances of sailing routes. Routes between Asia and Europe shorten by 40 per cent when the sailing route is open. Same when we saw Suez and Panama canal was opened. Its very important arctic is the peaceful area, low tension area. The only way is we work with all the stakeholder and India is a large stakeholder. WION: Gerua song from Dilwale movie was shot in Iceland. Would like more Bollywood movies to be shot in Iceland? Gudlaugur Thor: Gerua is a very beautiful video, well recognised. We didn't know how famous these actors are. We realized it when they come to Iceland. People who knew them, Indian tourist were very interested. We see a beautiful video. We know that Iceland film industry interested in working with the Indian film industry. Its been very successful. We see a lot of opportunities. Things you see in the video are not far away and it is easy to go. WION: How popular is yoga in Iceland? Gudlaugur Thor: It is not only yoga. Indian cuisine very popular. My favourite restaurant in Iceland is an Indian restaurant. Indian spices and Icelandic lamb go hand in hand. WION: India has been calling for reforms at UN. Do you back India's bid at UNSC seat? Gudlaugur Thor: We totally agree when it comes to UN reforms. It is good that Secretary-General emphasised on that. We have supported India at the security council. Actually, we find it is important that India has a regular role. We are not optimistic changes will happen. When it comes to value, Iceland and India do agree. That is why we both support UN reforms and support India to UNSC. WION: But you don't sound optimistic? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, there is someone who is dragging the reforms. We want UN to be a much more efficient instrument. Security Council should not block things. WION: Your take on China's Polar Silk Road? Gudlaugur Thor: In general its good that we are building infrastructure project around the world. But very important that all multilateralism based on values we have built so far. Find it essential, the multilateralism should be based on rule of law, human rights and democratic values. WION: China says its a near arctic country. Do you think so? Gudlaugur Thor: Well it is important we work together on multilateralism when it comes to the Arctic. Of course, when we look at the Arctic, we need to look at the people. there are 4 million people in the Arctic. Can't make decisions without them. we also need transportations when it comes to exploiting resources. we need some kind of structure. That is why we supported India, China's observer status at the Arctic Council. Everyone needs to be on the table when you are discussing those topics. Otherwise, we won't succeed. The main thing is that the Arctic remains a low tension and peaceful area. WION: Your take on Arctic report saying the Arctic faces danger? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, the challenge is there. No doubt about it. I am an optimist. We need to address it and do it together. Iceland can't do alone. Even India can't do alone. I see the positive sign, lot of enthusiasm when it comes to fighting against climate change. WION: But a Major country has withdrawn from the Paris Climate deal? Gudlaugur Thor: Yes, but at the same time, both states in the US and huge firms and cities are more enthusiastic than ever when it comes fighting climate change. It is not all bleak. It needs to be discussed and we need to listen to voices who are concerned. We can't ignore that. Because if we do we can do in an open and transparent manner based on scientific knowledge. WION: Europe is not going through a positive phase? Gudlaugur Thor: Europe is not about institutions. There are challenges they need to sort out. European nations working together. Europe has layers of cooperation. It's not only EU. there is EFTA, NATO, EEA, EUROZONE. We have layers of cooperation. The best way is to approach is via the a la carte way. If we do that it will lower the tension. It's not me who makes a decision. We are outside EU. WION: What are the advantages of staying away from EU. You are not part of EU? Gudlaugur Thor: These are challenges we hope are resolved. Its very important they are resolved. We are not part of EU, these are our friends and allies, we wish them all the best so that they can try to find some solution. Its clear advantage we not part of EU. we have access to European markets. Very important for us. We need free trade all around the world. A perfect example of the importance of free trade. We used to be poor and we would still be poor if we didn't have access to others markets and our markets are not open. Every once in while this idea of protectionism comes up. It is always a bad idea. We are just emphasizing the importance of free trade. WION: Would you like to sign FTA with India. ? Gudlaugur Thor: Defiantly. The policy is to have a free trade agreement between EFTA and India. It is a good idea. you will only benefit from it. you will never lose by having FTA with EFTA. WION: What suggestion would you like to give to British PM May? Gudlaugur Thor: From the start, Brexit has been a priority for us. The UK is our 2nd most important trading partner. Fifth largest economy. We are saying do not put any trade restrictions in Europe. Think in a constructive way. If we can be part of the solution. For example, if UK would like to be part of EFTA or EEA we should look in a positive way. It will be awful if we see trade restrictions in Europe in future. It is just, we should try to work in a constructive way and look long term. We should think about people in Europe and not institution. WION: You are part of NATO. US president is calling for budget cuts. Your take? Gudlaugur Thor: NATO is an extremely important organization. NATO is the cornerstone of our foreign policy, a stronger supporter of NATO and it needs to be strengthened. And we are seeing that, since 2014 increase in the defence budget. It going in the right direction. And we need to have to strong defence, for reasons we all know. WION: Voices in Washington say Pakistan should be removed from its status of major non-NATO ally. Your thoughts? Gudlaugur Thor: We need to fight terrorism. NATO has emphasised on Europe 360 degree. But also emphasising on the fight against terror & cyber attacks. We can not forget we need to fight terror every way we can, only message we give.

India is a large stakeholder in Arctic: Iceland FM Gudlaugur Thor to WION

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-myanmar-friendship-driven-by-quest-for-mutual-peace-progress-prosperity-president-ram-nath-kovind-183403">President Ram Nath Kovind</a> on Wednesday launched a mobile app for farmers in Myanmar and dedicated a centre to promote agriculture research and education to the people here.

Kovind is in Myanmar on a two-city visit to continue India's high level bilateral engagements under the rubric of the 'Act East Policy' and the 'Neighbourhood First Policy'.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that the president launched the mobile app on agritech while dedicating the Advanced Centre for Agricultural Research and Education (ACARE) in Yezin Agricultural University to the people of Myanmar.

ACARE, a project assisted by the Indian government, focuses on genetics, post harvest technology, participatory knowledge management and capacity building for farmers in Myanmar, Kumar said.

President Kovind also dedicated the Rice Bio Park in Yezin Agricultural University to the people of Myanmar which was set up under the mentorship of M S Swaminathan Research Foundation, he said.

Later, the President and First Lady Savita arrived at the Yangon International Airport on their second leg of two-city visit to Myanmar. They were welcomed by Phyo Min Thein, Chief Minister of Yangon along with other dignitaries.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday launched a mobile app for farmers in Myanmar and dedicated a centre to promote agriculture research and education to the people here.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday launched a mobile app for farmers in Myanmar and dedicated a centre to promote agriculture research and education to the people here. Kovind is in Myanmar on a two-city visit to continue India's high level bilateral engagements under the rubric of the 'Act East Policy' and the 'Neighbourhood First Policy'. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that the president launched the mobile app on agritech while dedicating the Advanced Centre for Agricultural Research and Education (ACARE) in Yezin Agricultural University to the people of Myanmar. ACARE, a project assisted by the Indian government, focuses on genetics, post harvest technology, participatory knowledge management and capacity building for farmers in Myanmar, Kumar said. President Kovind also dedicated the Rice Bio Park in Yezin Agricultural University to the people of Myanmar which was set up under the mentorship of M S Swaminathan Research Foundation, he said. Later, the President and First Lady Savita arrived at the Yangon International Airport on their second leg of two-city visit to Myanmar. They were welcomed by Phyo Min Thein, Chief Minister of Yangon along with other dignitaries.

President Kovind launches mobile app for farmers in Myanmar

Registering a strong protest at the SAARC charter meeting held in Islamabad Indian diplomat Shubham Singh left the meet after Pakistan invited the PoK minister Chaudhary Muhammad Saeed to speak at the dais.&nbsp;

The diplomat left the SAARC meet when Pakistan gave the platform to Pok minister.

India has not released any official response in the matter.

This is yet another attempt in recent past where Pakistan has tried to push its agenda and propagate it's legitimacy to PoK.

During Imran Khan swearing-in ceremony too, cricketer Sidhu was made to sit next to the PoK prime minister.

 
&nbsp;

Registering a strong protest at the SAARC charter meeting held in Islamabad Indian diplomat Shubham Singh left the meet after Pakistan invited the PoK minister Chaudhary Muhammad Saeed to speak at the dais.

Registering a strong protest at the SAARC charter meeting held in Islamabad Indian diplomat Shubham Singh left the meet after Pakistan invited the PoK minister Chaudhary Muhammad Saeed to speak at the dais. The diplomat left the SAARC meet when Pakistan gave the platform to Pok minister. India has not released any official response in the matter. This is yet another attempt in recent past where Pakistan has tried to push its agenda and propagate it's legitimacy to PoK. During Imran Khan swearing-in ceremony too, cricketer Sidhu was made to sit next to the PoK prime minister.

Indian diplomat walks out of SAARC meet after Pakistan's invitation to PoK minister

India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations General Assembly for destabilizing Afghanistan and continuing to provide assistance to sanctuaries of terror organisation in its territory.

India also said that the terrorists and their supporters have set up industries of narcotics and illegal mining in the territories they control and added that terrorists are also stealing resources of the Afghan people to fund more violence and terrorism.

As per the latest reports on global terrorism index released earlier this week, Afghanistan is now the world’s deadliest country for terrorism.&nbsp;

One-quarter of all worldwide terrorism-related deaths during 2017 occurred in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The country has seen a number of terror attacks in 2018 in which hundreds of people have been killed.

India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations General Assembly for destabilizing Afghanistan and continuing to provide assistance to sanctuaries of terror organisation in its territory.

India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations General Assembly for destabilizing Afghanistan and continuing to provide assistance to sanctuaries of terror organisation in its territory. India also said that the terrorists and their supporters have set up industries of narcotics and illegal mining in the territories they control and added that terrorists are also stealing resources of the Afghan people to fund more violence and terrorism. As per the latest reports on global terrorism index released earlier this week, Afghanistan is now the world’s deadliest country for terrorism. One-quarter of all worldwide terrorism-related deaths during 2017 occurred in Afghanistan. The country has seen a number of terror attacks in 2018 in which hundreds of people have been killed.

Pakistan continues to assist terror groups in Afghanistan: INDIA at UNGA

India and China will resume their joint military drills after a one-year gap on Tuesday in the southwest Chinese city of Chengdu to improve capabilities in fighting terrorism and promote mutual understanding, officials said on Sunday.

The opening ceremony of the drills will be held on December 11, they said.

Each side will send 100 troops to take part in the 7th India and China joint military exercises – ‘Hand in Hand’ – which will focus on counter-terrorism operations, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Col Ren Guoqiang said last month.

The exercises will be held after a gap of one year as both the sides were locked in a 73-day standoff in Doklam in the Sikkim sector of the border in 2017.

The strained relations between the two sides later improved resulting in an informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in the Chinese city of Wuhan in April this year.

“The drill will promote understanding between the two militaries and improving their capabilities in fighting terrorism,” Col Ren said.

The exercises, which will conclude on December 23, will include live shooting and adoptive and basic training, he said, adding that true to its name ‘Hand in Hand’, China and Indian militaries should also work hand in hand for the benefit of people in both the nation.

Top leaders from both the countries met on November 24 at the 21st India-China border talks held at Dujiangyan near Chengdu in southwestern Sichuan province. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and China’s State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who are the designated Special Representatives, took part in the talks.

They called for intensifying efforts to find a solution to the vexed border dispute.

Earlier at the 9th Defence dialogue held here on November 13 between Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and Lt Gen Shao Yuanming, Deputy Chief of Joint Staff Department of Central Military Commission, the two sides discussed bilateral relations, military ties, border control as well as regional and international issues.

India and China will resume their joint military drills after a one-year gap on Tuesday in the southwest Chinese city of Chengdu to improve capabilities in fighting terrorism and promote mutual understanding, officials said on Sunday.

India and China will resume their joint military drills after a one-year gap on Tuesday in the southwest Chinese city of Chengdu to improve capabilities in fighting terrorism and promote mutual understanding, officials said on Sunday. The opening ceremony of the drills will be held on December 11, they said. Each side will send 100 troops to take part in the 7th India and China joint military exercises – ‘Hand in Hand’ – which will focus on counter-terrorism operations, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Col Ren Guoqiang said last month. The exercises will be held after a gap of one year as both the sides were locked in a 73-day standoff in Doklam in the Sikkim sector of the border in 2017. The strained relations between the two sides later improved resulting in an informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping in the Chinese city of Wuhan in April this year. “The drill will promote understanding between the two militaries and improving their capabilities in fighting terrorism,” Col Ren said. The exercises, which will conclude on December 23, will include live shooting and adoptive and basic training, he said, adding that true to its name ‘Hand in Hand’, China and Indian militaries should also work hand in hand for the benefit of people in both the nation. Top leaders from both the countries met on November 24 at the 21st India-China border talks held at Dujiangyan near Chengdu in southwestern Sichuan province. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and China’s State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who are the designated Special Representatives, took part in the talks. They called for intensifying efforts to find a solution to the vexed border dispute. Earlier at the 9th Defence dialogue held here on November 13 between Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and Lt Gen Shao Yuanming, Deputy Chief of Joint Staff Department of Central Military Commission, the two sides discussed bilateral relations, military ties, border control as well as regional and international issues.

India, China to resume military drills after one year gap

Two years after surgical strikes were carried out by the Indian Army across the Line of Control, Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda on Friday opined that the hype associated with the Surgical Strike was not needed.&nbsp;

Speaking to ANI, Hooda said, "I do think there was too much hype over it. The military operation was important and we had to do it. Now how much should it have been politicised, whether it is right or wrong is something that should be asked to politicians."

Elaborating upon how the forces on the border should react to events that occur on the Line of Control, Hooda said, "I think the way the things are going on the LoC, we must have a pro-active and unpredictable response unless Pakistan does something to ease tensions and stop infiltrations."

However, former Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag in September revealed that the Indian Army" had been preparing for the 2016 surgical strike since June 2015, adding that the troops were told that failure was "not an option".

Moreover, Suhag had claimed that if needed, there can be another strike as well.

"We have exhibited our capability. Our troops are motivated and now having done it once, troops are also confident of doing it again. So, if we can do it once, we can do it again and if necessary again and again," he had said.

Two years after surgical strikes were carried out by the Indian Army across the Line of Control, Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda on Friday opined that the hype associated with the Surgical Strike was not needed.

Two years after surgical strikes were carried out by the Indian Army across the Line of Control, Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda on Friday opined that the hype associated with the Surgical Strike was not needed. Speaking to ANI, Hooda said, "I do think there was too much hype over it. The military operation was important and we had to do it. Now how much should it have been politicised, whether it is right or wrong is something that should be asked to politicians." Elaborating upon how the forces on the border should react to events that occur on the Line of Control, Hooda said, "I think the way the things are going on the LoC, we must have a pro-active and unpredictable response unless Pakistan does something to ease tensions and stop infiltrations." However, former Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag in September revealed that the Indian Army" had been preparing for the 2016 surgical strike since June 2015, adding that the troops were told that failure was "not an option". Moreover, Suhag had claimed that if needed, there can be another strike as well. "We have exhibited our capability. Our troops are motivated and now having done it once, troops are also confident of doing it again. So, if we can do it once, we can do it again and if necessary again and again," he had said.

Surgical strike was overhyped, says Lt Gen (retd) DS Hooda

India slammed Pakistan at United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) for destabilising Afghanistan and continuing to provide sanctuaries to terror organisations in its territory.&nbsp;

"Offensives are planned and launched by those who are harboured in safe havens in the neighbourhood of Afghanistan. These sanctuaries have, for years, provided safety for the dark agendas of ideologically and operationally-fused terror networks like the Taliban, Haqqani network, Daesh, Al- Qaeda and its prescribed affiliates such as the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed," said Indian Diplomat Eenam Gambhir delivering India's statement in UNGA. &nbsp;

Afghanistan has seen a number of terror attacks in 2018 in which hundreds of people have been killed. The Jalalabad suicide attack in July killed the man Sikhs including Atma Singh who was to represent the minorities in the Afghan Parliament.&nbsp;

"It is clear that the terrorists and those who plan such attacks are not interested in peace. The goalposts for them have changed" Gambhir said and added the terrorists and their supporters have now set up industries amongst them of narcotics and illegal mining in the territories they control stealing the resources of the Afghan people and to fund more violence and terrorism.

As per the latest reports on Global Terrorism Index released earlier this week, Afghanistan is now the world’s deadliest country for terrorism. One-quarter of all worldwide terrorism-related deaths during 2017 occurred in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India also slammed Security Council sanctions committee for refusing to designate new leaders of the Taliban or to freeze the assets of the slain leader of Taliban stating that peace in Afghanistan is tied to the peace and security in the entire world.

Dwelling on Pakistan- Afghanistan relationship, Afghanistan's permanent representative to UN Ambassador Mahmoud Saikal said, "No country can benefit more from a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, than Pakistan itself." &nbsp;

Kabul and Islamabad signed the Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity between Afghanistan and Pakistan ( APAPPS) in April this year. The mechanism is aimed for improved cooperation to address outstanding concerns with respect to combating terrorism, and clear measures to advance peace efforts.&nbsp;

The Assembly held its annual debate on the situation in Afghanistan during which it adopted a resolution on the matter by a record 124 vote in favour to none against, with 3 abstentions (Libya, Russian Federation, Zimbabwe).&nbsp;

India has emerged as one of the major development partners of Afghanistan in the last few years. The India-Afghanistan Air-Freight Corridor has helped Afghan products to reach India and via Chabahar port, India has connectivity to the Afghanistan market.&nbsp;

India slammed Pakistan at United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) for destabilising Afghanistan and continuing to provide sanctuaries to terror organisations in its territory.

India slammed Pakistan at United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) for destabilising Afghanistan and continuing to provide sanctuaries to terror organisations in its territory. "Offensives are planned and launched by those who are harboured in safe havens in the neighbourhood of Afghanistan. These sanctuaries have, for years, provided safety for the dark agendas of ideologically and operationally-fused terror networks like the Taliban, Haqqani network, Daesh, Al- Qaeda and its prescribed affiliates such as the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed," said Indian Diplomat Eenam Gambhir delivering India's statement in UNGA. Afghanistan has seen a number of terror attacks in 2018 in which hundreds of people have been killed. The Jalalabad suicide attack in July killed the man Sikhs including Atma Singh who was to represent the minorities in the Afghan Parliament. "It is clear that the terrorists and those who plan such attacks are not interested in peace. The goalposts for them have changed" Gambhir said and added the terrorists and their supporters have now set up industries amongst them of narcotics and illegal mining in the territories they control stealing the resources of the Afghan people and to fund more violence and terrorism. As per the latest reports on Global Terrorism Index released earlier this week, Afghanistan is now the world’s deadliest country for terrorism. One-quarter of all worldwide terrorism-related deaths during 2017 occurred in Afghanistan. India also slammed Security Council sanctions committee for refusing to designate new leaders of the Taliban or to freeze the assets of the slain leader of Taliban stating that peace in Afghanistan is tied to the peace and security in the entire world. Dwelling on Pakistan- Afghanistan relationship, Afghanistan's permanent representative to UN Ambassador Mahmoud Saikal said, "No country can benefit more from a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, than Pakistan itself." Kabul and Islamabad signed the Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity between Afghanistan and Pakistan ( APAPPS) in April this year. The mechanism is aimed for improved cooperation to address outstanding concerns with respect to combating terrorism, and clear measures to advance peace efforts. The Assembly held its annual debate on the situation in Afghanistan during which it adopted a resolution on the matter by a record 124 vote in favour to none against, with 3 abstentions (Libya, Russian Federation, Zimbabwe). India has emerged as one of the major development partners of Afghanistan in the last few years. The India-Afghanistan Air-Freight Corridor has helped Afghan products to reach India and via Chabahar port, India has connectivity to the Afghanistan market.

Terror attacks on Afghanistan planned in neighbourhood safe havens: India at UNGA

The current trade between India and Pakistan is at a little over USD 2 billion, much below than the potential, and can go up to USD 37 billion if the two countries tear down artificial barriers like lack of connectivity, trust deficit and complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, according to a World Bank report.&nbsp;

The report titled 'Glass Half Full: Promise of Regional Trade in South Asia' was released here on Wednesday.

Dawn reported that it says that the current trade between the two countries is much below than full potential. It could only be harnessed if both countries agree to tear down artificial barriers.

The bank also estimated Pakistan's potential trade with South Asia at USD 39.7bn against the actual current trade of USD 5.1bn.

The report also unpacks four of the critical barriers to effective integration.&nbsp;

The four areas are tariff and para-tariff barriers to trade, complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, a disproportionately high cost of trade, and trust deficit.

Talking to a group of journalists on key points of the report at the World Bank office in Islamabad, lead economist and author of the document Sanjay Kathuria said it was his belief that trust promotes trade, and trade fosters trust, interdependency and constituencies for peace.

In this context, he added, the opening of the Kartarpur Corridor by governments of Pakistan and India would help minimise trust deficit.

He said such steps will boost trust between the two countries.&nbsp;

For realising the trade potential between Pakistan and India, he suggested the two countries can start with specific products facilitation in the first phase.&nbsp;

Kathuria said Pakistan had least air connectivity with South Asian countries, especially India. Pakistan has only six weekly flights each with India and Afghanistan, 10 each with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and only one with Nepal, but no flight with the Maldives and Bhutan.

Compared to this, India has 147 weekly flights with Sri Lanka, followed by 67 with Bangladesh, 32 with the Maldives, 71 with Nepal, 22 with Afghanistan and 23 with Bhutan.

The report recommends ending sensitive lists and para tariffs to enable real progress on the South Asia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) and calls for a multi-pronged effort to remove non-tariff barriers, focusing on information flows, procedures, and infrastructure.

The report stated that Pakistan's decision of not granting MFN status or non-discriminatory market access to India was also a barrier to trade.&nbsp;

The preferential access granted by Pakistan on 82.1% of tariff lines under Safta was partially blocked in the case of India because Pakistan maintained a negative list comprising 1,209 items that could not be imported from India, the report noted.

Policy-makers may draw lessons from the India-Sri Lanka air service liberalisation experience. Connectivity is a key enabler for robust regional cooperation in South Asia.

Kathuria said that reducing policy barriers, such as eliminating the restrictions on trade at the Wagah-Attari border or aiming for seamless, electronic data interchange at border crossings, will be major steps towards reducing the very high costs of trade between Pakistan and India.

He argued that the costs of trade are much higher within South Asia compared to other regions. The average tariff in South Asia is more than double the world average. South Asian countries have greater trade barriers for imports from within the region than from the rest of the world.

The World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, Illango Patchamuthu, said Pakistan is sitting on a huge trade potential that remains largely untapped.&nbsp; 
"A favourable trading regime that reduces the high costs and removes barriers can boost investment opportunities that are critically required for accelerating growth in the country," he said.

The World Bank's Director Macroeconomics, Trade and Investment Caroline Freund said Pakistan's frequent use of tariffs to curb imports or protect local firms increases the prices of hundreds of consumer goods, such as eggs, paper and bicycles.

They also raise the cost of production for firms, making it difficult for them to integrate with regional and global value chains, she said. Pakistan needs to promote export promotion policies to ensure sustainable growth.

On the issue of currency devaluation, she said the undervalued currency is an anti-export measure. She suggests the exchange rate should be determined by the real market trend.&nbsp;

The current trade between India and Pakistan is at a little over USD 2 billion, much below than the potential, and can go up to USD 37 billion if the two countries tear down artificial barriers like lack of connectivity, trust deficit and complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, according to a World Bank report.

The current trade between India and Pakistan is at a little over USD 2 billion, much below than the potential, and can go up to USD 37 billion if the two countries tear down artificial barriers like lack of connectivity, trust deficit and complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, according to a World Bank report. The report titled 'Glass Half Full: Promise of Regional Trade in South Asia' was released here on Wednesday. Dawn reported that it says that the current trade between the two countries is much below than full potential. It could only be harnessed if both countries agree to tear down artificial barriers. The bank also estimated Pakistan's potential trade with South Asia at USD 39.7bn against the actual current trade of USD 5.1bn. The report also unpacks four of the critical barriers to effective integration. The four areas are tariff and para-tariff barriers to trade, complicated and non-transparent non-tariff measures, a disproportionately high cost of trade, and trust deficit. Talking to a group of journalists on key points of the report at the World Bank office in Islamabad, lead economist and author of the document Sanjay Kathuria said it was his belief that trust promotes trade, and trade fosters trust, interdependency and constituencies for peace. In this context, he added, the opening of the Kartarpur Corridor by governments of Pakistan and India would help minimise trust deficit. He said such steps will boost trust between the two countries. For realising the trade potential between Pakistan and India, he suggested the two countries can start with specific products facilitation in the first phase. Kathuria said Pakistan had least air connectivity with South Asian countries, especially India. Pakistan has only six weekly flights each with India and Afghanistan, 10 each with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh and only one with Nepal, but no flight with the Maldives and Bhutan. Compared to this, India has 147 weekly flights with Sri Lanka, followed by 67 with Bangladesh, 32 with the Maldives, 71 with Nepal, 22 with Afghanistan and 23 with Bhutan. The report recommends ending sensitive lists and para tariffs to enable real progress on the South Asia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) and calls for a multi-pronged effort to remove non-tariff barriers, focusing on information flows, procedures, and infrastructure. The report stated that Pakistan's decision of not granting MFN status or non-discriminatory market access to India was also a barrier to trade. The preferential access granted by Pakistan on 82.1% of tariff lines under Safta was partially blocked in the case of India because Pakistan maintained a negative list comprising 1,209 items that could not be imported from India, the report noted. Policy-makers may draw lessons from the India-Sri Lanka air service liberalisation experience. Connectivity is a key enabler for robust regional cooperation in South Asia. Kathuria said that reducing policy barriers, such as eliminating the restrictions on trade at the Wagah-Attari border or aiming for seamless, electronic data interchange at border crossings, will be major steps towards reducing the very high costs of trade between Pakistan and India. He argued that the costs of trade are much higher within South Asia compared to other regions. The average tariff in South Asia is more than double the world average. South Asian countries have greater trade barriers for imports from within the region than from the rest of the world. The World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, Illango Patchamuthu, said Pakistan is sitting on a huge trade potential that remains largely untapped. "A favourable trading regime that reduces the high costs and removes barriers can boost investment opportunities that are critically required for accelerating growth in the country," he said. The World Bank's Director Macroeconomics, Trade and Investment Caroline Freund said Pakistan's frequent use of tariffs to curb imports or protect local firms increases the prices of hundreds of consumer goods, such as eggs, paper and bicycles. They also raise the cost of production for firms, making it difficult for them to integrate with regional and global value chains, she said. Pakistan needs to promote export promotion policies to ensure sustainable growth. On the issue of currency devaluation, she said the undervalued currency is an anti-export measure. She suggests the exchange rate should be determined by the real market trend.

India, Pakistan trade much below than potential: World Bank report

Ratan Kumar once battled India's brutal summers with damp bedsheets and midnight baths. Now he is among millions upon millions of Indians using air conditioning helping make the world hotter still.

With India's AC market expected to explode from 30 million to a billion units by 2050, the world's second-most populous country could become <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/my-strong-commitment-to-climate-action-rooted-in-vedas-modi-tells-un-chief-181344">the planet's top user of electricity for cooling</a>.

India is already the number-three spewer of greenhouse gases, burning through 800 million tonnes of coal every year and the predicted AC boom could mean the country would have to triple its electricity production to meet demand, experts say.

But for the hundreds of millions of Indians enduring scorching, even deadly, summers, the air conditioners are a godsend.&nbsp;

"Summers make our life miserable," said Kumar, a 48-year-old laundryman earning $225 a month who this year installed an AC unit in his two-room house in the town of Behror in the baking-hot desert state of Rajasthan.

"Sleeping for few hours is a struggle after a day's hard work," the father-of-two told AFP, running a hot iron over crumpled clothes. "I am not rich but we all aspire to a comfortable life."

Vast swathes of India endure a gruelling four-month long summer, and the mercury has been inching ever higher in recent years.

In 2016, the Earth's hottest on record, temperatures in the Indian town of Phalodi soared to 51 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit), the highest recorded in India.

The brutal heat can melt tarmac on the roads and puts millions of people at risk, with nearly 2,500 victims perishing from sunstroke in 2015.

'Everyone deserves an AC'&nbsp; 
Currently, just five per cent of Indian households are equipped with ACs compared to 90 per cent in the United States and 60 per cent in China, up from virtually zero 30 years ago.

But India's AC market is catching up fast, seeing double-digit growth in the last decade as incomes rise and electricity supplies become more reliable.&nbsp;

"It's no longer a luxury product but a necessity," said Kanwal Jeet Jawa, India head of Japanese manufacturer Daikin, whose factory in Rajasthan churns out 1.2 million AC units per year.

"ACs increase productivity and life expectancy. Everyone deserves an AC," he told AFP.

Vicious circle&nbsp;

The irony is that as humans try to stay cool, the refrigerants inside AC units and the generation of electricity needed to power the appliances are exacerbating global warming.

In addition, studies including by the World Health Organisation and UN-Habitat show that the heat-generating motors inside AC units can themselves push up temperatures in urban areas, where the appliances are widely used, by a degree or more.

As demand grows, the amount of energy consumed globally by AC units could triple by 2050, requiring new electricity capacity equivalent to the combined current capacity of the US, the EU and Japan, the International Energy Agency says.

India currently generates about two-thirds of its electricity with coal and gas, and despite ambitious plans for renewable energy the country is set to remain highly dependent on hydrocarbons for decades to come.

One possible source of hope is if Indians buy more energy-efficient AC units, and manufacturers like Daikin are promoting these over older technologies.

But they are pricier, and Indian consumers that have AC are slow to upgrade, partly due to an ingrained culture of repairing devices rather than buying new ones.

In June the Indian government issued an "advisory" to AC makers to keep the default setting at 24 degrees Celsius to save billions of units of electricity and reduce emissions.

But for now the measure is not mandatory, and with many people expressing outrage, it is unclear how effective it will be.

Bigger worries&nbsp;

As the latest international climate change powwow <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/emphasis-on-urgency-as-climate-talks-begin-in-polish-coal-city-katowice-181146">COP24</a> gets underway in Poland this week, Behror electronics store owner Ram Vikas Yadav says his customers have bigger worries than global warming.&nbsp;

"People want ACs to keep their homes cool," Yadav, who says his sales have rocket 150 per cent every year, told AFP. "This year I sold 300 ACs."

Yadav said rural families, in particular, attracted by aggressive marketing by manufacturers, are ditching traditional ways to cool their homes.

These include ceiling fans or air coolers -- a fan-run device that blows cool air off water-soaked pads, which are often a haven for disease-carrying mosquitoes.

Laundryman Kumar too feels the summers have become hotter than usual in recent years, pushing him to invest in AC.

"Scientists keep on saying such things but I can at least have some sound sleep now."

Ratan Kumar once battled India's brutal summers with damp bedsheets and midnight baths. Now he is among millions upon millions of Indians using air conditioning helping make the world hotter still.

Ratan Kumar once battled India's brutal summers with damp bedsheets and midnight baths. Now he is among millions upon millions of Indians using air conditioning helping make the world hotter still. With India's AC market expected to explode from 30 million to a billion units by 2050, the world's second-most populous country could become the planet's top user of electricity for cooling. India is already the number-three spewer of greenhouse gases, burning through 800 million tonnes of coal every year and the predicted AC boom could mean the country would have to triple its electricity production to meet demand, experts say. But for the hundreds of millions of Indians enduring scorching, even deadly, summers, the air conditioners are a godsend. "Summers make our life miserable," said Kumar, a 48-year-old laundryman earning $225 a month who this year installed an AC unit in his two-room house in the town of Behror in the baking-hot desert state of Rajasthan. "Sleeping for few hours is a struggle after a day's hard work," the father-of-two told AFP, running a hot iron over crumpled clothes. "I am not rich but we all aspire to a comfortable life." Vast swathes of India endure a gruelling four-month long summer, and the mercury has been inching ever higher in recent years. In 2016, the Earth's hottest on record, temperatures in the Indian town of Phalodi soared to 51 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit), the highest recorded in India. The brutal heat can melt tarmac on the roads and puts millions of people at risk, with nearly 2,500 victims perishing from sunstroke in 2015. 'Everyone deserves an AC' Currently, just five per cent of Indian households are equipped with ACs compared to 90 per cent in the United States and 60 per cent in China, up from virtually zero 30 years ago. But India's AC market is catching up fast, seeing double-digit growth in the last decade as incomes rise and electricity supplies become more reliable. "It's no longer a luxury product but a necessity," said Kanwal Jeet Jawa, India head of Japanese manufacturer Daikin, whose factory in Rajasthan churns out 1.2 million AC units per year. "ACs increase productivity and life expectancy. Everyone deserves an AC," he told AFP. Vicious circle The irony is that as humans try to stay cool, the refrigerants inside AC units and the generation of electricity needed to power the appliances are exacerbating global warming. In addition, studies including by the World Health Organisation and UN-Habitat show that the heat-generating motors inside AC units can themselves push up temperatures in urban areas, where the appliances are widely used, by a degree or more. As demand grows, the amount of energy consumed globally by AC units could triple by 2050, requiring new electricity capacity equivalent to the combined current capacity of the US, the EU and Japan, the International Energy Agency says. India currently generates about two-thirds of its electricity with coal and gas, and despite ambitious plans for renewable energy the country is set to remain highly dependent on hydrocarbons for decades to come. One possible source of hope is if Indians buy more energy-efficient AC units, and manufacturers like Daikin are promoting these over older technologies. But they are pricier, and Indian consumers that have AC are slow to upgrade, partly due to an ingrained culture of repairing devices rather than buying new ones. In June the Indian government issued an "advisory" to AC makers to keep the default setting at 24 degrees Celsius to save billions of units of electricity and reduce emissions. But for now the measure is not mandatory, and with many people expressing outrage, it is unclear how effective it will be. Bigger worries As the latest international climate change powwow COP24 gets underway in Poland this week, Behror electronics store owner Ram Vikas Yadav says his customers have bigger worries than global warming. "People want ACs to keep their homes cool," Yadav, who says his sales have rocket 150 per cent every year, told AFP. "This year I sold 300 ACs." Yadav said rural families, in particular, attracted by aggressive marketing by manufacturers, are ditching traditional ways to cool their homes. These include ceiling fans or air coolers -- a fan-run device that blows cool air off water-soaked pads, which are often a haven for disease-carrying mosquitoes. Laundryman Kumar too feels the summers have become hotter than usual in recent years, pushing him to invest in AC. "Scientists keep on saying such things but I can at least have some sound sleep now."

What's making the world hotter? India's AC explosion

Three Punjab ministers Saturday called for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/navjot-singh-sidhu-repeats-thief-slur-against-pm-modi-180763">Navjot Singh Sidhu</a>'s resignation from the state cabinet over his jibe at Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, a fallout of the controversial politician's recent trip to Kartarpur in Pakistan.

The row over the trip escalated in the state even as Sidhu backtracked on his claim that Congress president Rahul Gandhi was involved in his decision to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kartarpur corridor.

"Get your facts right before you distort them, Rahul Gandhi Ji never asked me to go to Pakistan. The whole world knows I went to Pakistan on Prime Minister Imran Khan's personal invite," Sidhu tweeted.

A day earlier in Hyderabad, Sidhu had mocked Capt Amarinder Singh, when reporters asked him about going to Pakistan despite his disapproval.

"Rahul Gandhi is my captain. It is he who sent me to Pakistan. Rahul Gandhi is the captain of the captain (Amarinder Singh) also," Sidhu had then said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
If he doesn't recognize Capt sahab as his captain then he should resign. Ofcourse,Rahul ji is our India captain but Punjab captain is Amarinder Singh. Sidhu sahab is an extraordinary person and has a long career ahead,he must choose words carefully:TR Bajwa,Punjab Minister (1.11) <a href="https://t.co/eVIFcku3ue">pic.twitter.com/eVIFcku3ue</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1069074796107976704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Reacting to this, the Punjab ministers said if Sidhu, who holds the local bodies and tourism portfolios, didn't consider Amarinder Singh to be his captain, he should quit the chief minister's team.

Sidhu was attacked over his Hyderabad remark by Rural Development and Panchayat minister Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, Revenue and Rehabilitation minister Sukhbinder Singh Sarkaria and Sports Minister Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi. Sodhi said other ministers too are backing Amarinder Singh on this.

"Among the ministers I spoke with are Aruna Chaudhary and Sadhu Singh Dharamsot. We are all solidly behind Capt Amarinder Singh," Sodhi said.

Sources said the issue is likely to be raised in the state cabinet meeting on Monday

"If he does not consider Capt Amarinder as his captain then he should resign on moral grounds from the cabinet and do whatever work is assigned to him by Rahul Gandhi," Bajwa said.

He said Sidhu should apologise to the chief minister.

"He will have to accept Captain sahib as his leader in Punjab," Bajwa said.

"My advice to the younger brother is to speak less and concentrate on work," he added. Sarkaria said Sidhu's language while referring to the chief minister was "objectionable."

"Rahul Gandhi is our leader, he is our party's national president. In Punjab, the government is headed by Capt Amarinder Singh, who is our captain in the state and we all work like a team under his leadership,"&nbsp;he said.

"If Sidhu or anyone else has a problem with this and cannot work under his leadership, he must resign," the minister said. Sodhi called the ex-cricketer's jibe "distasteful".

"While Rahul ji heads our party, Capt Amarinder is the captain of Punjab government. It is Captain sahib who helped bring back Congress to power in Punjab,"&nbsp;he said.

"If Mr Sidhu thinks that Amarinder ji is not the captain in the state, or if anybody else doesn't accept him as the captain of the team, they can follow their own course," Sodhi told PTI.

Congress MLA Raj Kumar Verka said, "The party does not agree with Navjot Singh Sidhu's statement, which is objectionable."

Sidhu's wife and former BJP MLA Navjot Kaur Sidhu asserted that everyone in the Congress is Rahul Gandhi's soldier.

"We are individual soldiers of the Indian National Congress. We are not the soldiers of the CM sahib or the ministers here," she said Saturday.

Even while taking a dig at Amarinder Singh in Hyderabad, Sidhu had said he is a "father figure"&nbsp;for him.

The Kartarpur corridor will connect the shrine in Pakistan to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Gurdaspur, across the border between the two countries.

The planned corridor will give visa-free access to Indian pilgrims to the place where Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, spent the last years of his life.

Sidhu's visit to Pakistan had riled Amarinder Singh, who said he tried to dissuade Sidhu, following a grenade attack in Amritsar that left three people dead.

Since his return from Kartarpur, Sidhu has been criticised for lavishing praise on Imran Khan, who too showered special attention on him.

He was also targeted over a photograph which showed him posing with Gopal Singh Chawla, the Pakistan Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee head who is considered pro-Khalistan.

But Sidhu claimed "tens of thousands"&nbsp;of people wanted to take pictures with him in Kartarpur and he didn't know Chawla.&nbsp;

Three Punjab ministers Saturday called for Navjot Singh Sidhu's resignation from the state cabinet over his jibe at Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, a fallout of the controversial politician's recent trip to Kartarpur in Pakistan.

Three Punjab ministers Saturday called for Navjot Singh Sidhu's resignation from the state cabinet over his jibe at Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, a fallout of the controversial politician's recent trip to Kartarpur in Pakistan. The row over the trip escalated in the state even as Sidhu backtracked on his claim that Congress president Rahul Gandhi was involved in his decision to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kartarpur corridor. "Get your facts right before you distort them, Rahul Gandhi Ji never asked me to go to Pakistan. The whole world knows I went to Pakistan on Prime Minister Imran Khan's personal invite," Sidhu tweeted. A day earlier in Hyderabad, Sidhu had mocked Capt Amarinder Singh, when reporters asked him about going to Pakistan despite his disapproval. "Rahul Gandhi is my captain. It is he who sent me to Pakistan. Rahul Gandhi is the captain of the captain (Amarinder Singh) also," Sidhu had then said. If he doesn't recognize Capt sahab as his captain then he should resign. Ofcourse,Rahul ji is our India captain but Punjab captain is Amarinder Singh. Sidhu sahab is an extraordinary person and has a long career ahead,he must choose words carefully:TR Bajwa,Punjab Minister (1.11) pic.twitter.com/eVIFcku3ue — ANI (@ANI) December 2, 2018 × Reacting to this, the Punjab ministers said if Sidhu, who holds the local bodies and tourism portfolios, didn't consider Amarinder Singh to be his captain, he should quit the chief minister's team. Sidhu was attacked over his Hyderabad remark by Rural Development and Panchayat minister Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, Revenue and Rehabilitation minister Sukhbinder Singh Sarkaria and Sports Minister Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi. Sodhi said other ministers too are backing Amarinder Singh on this. "Among the ministers I spoke with are Aruna Chaudhary and Sadhu Singh Dharamsot. We are all solidly behind Capt Amarinder Singh," Sodhi said. Sources said the issue is likely to be raised in the state cabinet meeting on Monday "If he does not consider Capt Amarinder as his captain then he should resign on moral grounds from the cabinet and do whatever work is assigned to him by Rahul Gandhi," Bajwa said. He said Sidhu should apologise to the chief minister. "He will have to accept Captain sahib as his leader in Punjab," Bajwa said. "My advice to the younger brother is to speak less and concentrate on work," he added. Sarkaria said Sidhu's language while referring to the chief minister was "objectionable." "Rahul Gandhi is our leader, he is our party's national president. In Punjab, the government is headed by Capt Amarinder Singh, who is our captain in the state and we all work like a team under his leadership," he said. "If Sidhu or anyone else has a problem with this and cannot work under his leadership, he must resign," the minister said. Sodhi called the ex-cricketer's jibe "distasteful". "While Rahul ji heads our party, Capt Amarinder is the captain of Punjab government. It is Captain sahib who helped bring back Congress to power in Punjab," he said. "If Mr Sidhu thinks that Amarinder ji is not the captain in the state, or if anybody else doesn't accept him as the captain of the team, they can follow their own course," Sodhi told PTI. Congress MLA Raj Kumar Verka said, "The party does not agree with Navjot Singh Sidhu's statement, which is objectionable." Sidhu's wife and former BJP MLA Navjot Kaur Sidhu asserted that everyone in the Congress is Rahul Gandhi's soldier. "We are individual soldiers of the Indian National Congress. We are not the soldiers of the CM sahib or the ministers here," she said Saturday. Even while taking a dig at Amarinder Singh in Hyderabad, Sidhu had said he is a "father figure" for him. The Kartarpur corridor will connect the shrine in Pakistan to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Gurdaspur, across the border between the two countries. The planned corridor will give visa-free access to Indian pilgrims to the place where Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, spent the last years of his life. Sidhu's visit to Pakistan had riled Amarinder Singh, who said he tried to dissuade Sidhu, following a grenade attack in Amritsar that left three people dead. Since his return from Kartarpur, Sidhu has been criticised for lavishing praise on Imran Khan, who too showered special attention on him. He was also targeted over a photograph which showed him posing with Gopal Singh Chawla, the Pakistan Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee head who is considered pro-Khalistan. But Sidhu claimed "tens of thousands" of people wanted to take pictures with him in Kartarpur and he didn't know Chawla.

Sidhu's resignation called for after he says 'Rahul Gandhi is captain' of CM Amarinder Singh

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in his home country India, said he has not broken any law and was being targeted by the "enemies of Islam," <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/zakir-naik-thanks-malaysian-pm-for-not-deporting-him-vows-not-to-break-laws-150864?amp">in a rare public speech in Malaysia</a> where he has sought refuge.

Naik, 53, is facing charges of money laundering and hate speech in India, where authorities last year said he has been "promoting enmity and hatred between different religious groups in India through public speeches and lectures".

Naik has been living in Malaysia, where he has permanent residency since India started investigating him, but he has kept a low profile over the past year amid criticism that he is a threat to peace in multi-ethnic Malaysia.

Naik said in a late Saturday speech in Kangar, capital of the north Malaysian state of Perlis, that he had never broken any Indian law.

"But because I was spreading peace, I was giving solution for humanity, all the people who don't like peace to prevail, they don't like me," he said, adding he was being targeted because of his work to spread Islam.

"This doesn't go down (well with) the enemies of Islam. Be it western countries or the country I was born in, India."

Naik has been controversial because of his puritan brand of Islam - recommending the death penalty for homosexuals and those who abandon Islam as their faith, according to media reports.

In a clip on Youtube, Naik says that if Osama bin Laden "is terrorizing America the terrorist, the biggest terrorist, I am with him".

Bangladesh suspended a television channel that featured his preachings after media reported that militants who attacked a Dhaka cafe killing 22 people last year were admirers of him. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack. Britain banned Naik from entering in 2010.

About 1,000 people turned up for Naik's speech, along with the state's chief minister, crown prince and religious officials.

The preacher was known to be close to officials in the previous Malaysian administration, which was unexpectedly defeated in a May general election.

New Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad in July said as long as Naik was not creating any problems in Malaysia, he would not be deported. Indian media has reported that India has sought his extradition.

In Kangar, Naik described himself as a fundamentalist for following the fundamental teachings of Islam.

"I am proud to be a fundamentalist Muslim," he said

A doctor by training, Naik will be delivering more lectures at universities and a mosque on the speaking tour. His wife, Farhat Naik, will address women in separate speeches.

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in his home country India, said he has not broken any law and was being targeted by the "enemies of Islam," in a rare public speech in Malaysia where he has sought refuge.

Controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, wanted in his home country India, said he has not broken any law and was being targeted by the "enemies of Islam," in a rare public speech in Malaysia where he has sought refuge. Naik, 53, is facing charges of money laundering and hate speech in India, where authorities last year said he has been "promoting enmity and hatred between different religious groups in India through public speeches and lectures". Naik has been living in Malaysia, where he has permanent residency since India started investigating him, but he has kept a low profile over the past year amid criticism that he is a threat to peace in multi-ethnic Malaysia. Naik said in a late Saturday speech in Kangar, capital of the north Malaysian state of Perlis, that he had never broken any Indian law. "But because I was spreading peace, I was giving solution for humanity, all the people who don't like peace to prevail, they don't like me," he said, adding he was being targeted because of his work to spread Islam. "This doesn't go down (well with) the enemies of Islam. Be it western countries or the country I was born in, India." Naik has been controversial because of his puritan brand of Islam - recommending the death penalty for homosexuals and those who abandon Islam as their faith, according to media reports. In a clip on Youtube, Naik says that if Osama bin Laden "is terrorizing America the terrorist, the biggest terrorist, I am with him". Bangladesh suspended a television channel that featured his preachings after media reported that militants who attacked a Dhaka cafe killing 22 people last year were admirers of him. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack. Britain banned Naik from entering in 2010. About 1,000 people turned up for Naik's speech, along with the state's chief minister, crown prince and religious officials. The preacher was known to be close to officials in the previous Malaysian administration, which was unexpectedly defeated in a May general election. New Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad in July said as long as Naik was not creating any problems in Malaysia, he would not be deported. Indian media has reported that India has sought his extradition. In Kangar, Naik described himself as a fundamentalist for following the fundamental teachings of Islam. "I am proud to be a fundamentalist Muslim," he said A doctor by training, Naik will be delivering more lectures at universities and a mosque on the speaking tour. His wife, Farhat Naik, will address women in separate speeches.

I was spreading peace, have not broken any Indian law: Zakir Naik in Malaysia

China has not accepted India's proposal to carry out bilateral trade in local currencies which was aimed at bridging the ballooning trade deficit with the neighbouring country, an official said.

India's exports to China stood at only $13.4 billion, imports aggregated to $76.4 billion in 2017-18, leaving a trade deficit of $63 billion. It was $51.11 billion in 2016-17.

India had suggested China for renminbi-rupee trade to boost its exports and tackle the widening trade deficit concern.

'They have not accepted the proposal,'&nbsp;the official said.

The issue was discussed in an inter-ministerial meeting in October. In the meeting, it was suggested to the Reserve Bank of India and the Department of Economic Affairs would look at the possibility of exploring renminbi-rupee trade with China.

India has also proposed trade in national currencies with some other countries, including Russia, Iran and Venezuela. New Delhi has trade deficit with these three countries, too.

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) President Ganesh Kumar Gupta said that the government should promote exports from India in the domestic currency.

'This will help in bridging trade deficit with countries like China,'&nbsp;Gupta said.

Trade experts have stated that bilateral trade in domestic currencies will help India only in the case of those countries with which it has a trade balance.

"Trade imbalance should not be there with the country with which we want to do trade in rupee. It will not help in bridging the deficit. The partner country should have an opportunity to invest in India to use the rupee," said Biswajit Dhar, a professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University.

The Indian industry and exporters have time and again raised the issue of increasing trade deficit with China and have asked the government to seek greater market access for domestic goods in the Chinese market.

Recently, China has permitted exports of rice and sugar. But India wants to increase exports of several other items, including pharmaceuticals, engineering and services.&nbsp;

China has not accepted India's proposal to carry out bilateral trade in local currencies which was aimed at bridging the ballooning trade deficit with the neighbouring country, an official said.

China has not accepted India's proposal to carry out bilateral trade in local currencies which was aimed at bridging the ballooning trade deficit with the neighbouring country, an official said. India's exports to China stood at only $13.4 billion, imports aggregated to $76.4 billion in 2017-18, leaving a trade deficit of $63 billion. It was $51.11 billion in 2016-17. India had suggested China for renminbi-rupee trade to boost its exports and tackle the widening trade deficit concern. 'They have not accepted the proposal,' the official said. The issue was discussed in an inter-ministerial meeting in October. In the meeting, it was suggested to the Reserve Bank of India and the Department of Economic Affairs would look at the possibility of exploring renminbi-rupee trade with China. India has also proposed trade in national currencies with some other countries, including Russia, Iran and Venezuela. New Delhi has trade deficit with these three countries, too. The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) President Ganesh Kumar Gupta said that the government should promote exports from India in the domestic currency. 'This will help in bridging trade deficit with countries like China,' Gupta said. Trade experts have stated that bilateral trade in domestic currencies will help India only in the case of those countries with which it has a trade balance. "Trade imbalance should not be there with the country with which we want to do trade in rupee. It will not help in bridging the deficit. The partner country should have an opportunity to invest in India to use the rupee," said Biswajit Dhar, a professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University. The Indian industry and exporters have time and again raised the issue of increasing trade deficit with China and have asked the government to seek greater market access for domestic goods in the Chinese market. Recently, China has permitted exports of rice and sugar. But India wants to increase exports of several other items, including pharmaceuticals, engineering and services.

China says no to India's proposal for bilateral trade in domestic currencies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday participated in a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the 13th G20 Summit in Argentina.&nbsp;

Speaking during the meeting, the Prime Minister stated that the world today is going through extraordinary changes and uncertainty. "The increase in geopolitical tension is affecting global governance," he noted.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi while speaking at trilateral meeting with Chinese President and Russian President: There is no doubt that the world today is going through extraordinary changes&amp;uncertainty.The increase in geopolitical tension is affecting global governance. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Argentina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Argentina</a> <a href="https://t.co/tTxe0C7kwc">pic.twitter.com/tTxe0C7kwc</a>
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"WTO's Doha Development Agenda has been stalled, we haven't seen a financial commitment for developing countries from developed countries at an expected level since the Paris Accord. In this way, climate justice is being weakened," the Prime Minister stated.

Indian foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale shared further information about PM Modi's interaction with the Russian and the Chinese leader at the trilateral meet, adding that the leaders felt that the three countries "should coordinate in various areas to contribute to global peace."

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Foreign Secy: They all felt that we should work together to steer global economic governance. They felt that 3 countries should work together in areas where we could promote peace and stability in regional crisis. We should work together on terrorism, disaster relief&amp;assistance <a href="https://t.co/vp09ZDwq1e">pic.twitter.com/vp09ZDwq1e</a>
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"They all felt that we should work together to steer global economic governance. They felt that the three countries should work together in areas where we could promote peace and stability in the regional crisis. We should work together on terrorism, disaster relief and assistance," Gokhale added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-g20-india-suggests-ftaf-should-define-fugitive-economic-offenders-180588">Prime Minister Modi at the Summit suggested</a> that the&nbsp;Financial Action Task Force or FATF should formulate a standard definition of fugitive economic offenders.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday participated in a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the 13th G20 Summit in Argentina.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday participated in a trilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the 13th G20 Summit in Argentina. Speaking during the meeting, the Prime Minister stated that the world today is going through extraordinary changes and uncertainty. "The increase in geopolitical tension is affecting global governance," he noted. PM Narendra Modi while speaking at trilateral meeting with Chinese President and Russian President: There is no doubt that the world today is going through extraordinary changes&uncertainty.The increase in geopolitical tension is affecting global governance. #G20Summit #Argentina pic.twitter.com/tTxe0C7kwc — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × "WTO's Doha Development Agenda has been stalled, we haven't seen a financial commitment for developing countries from developed countries at an expected level since the Paris Accord. In this way, climate justice is being weakened," the Prime Minister stated. Indian foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale shared further information about PM Modi's interaction with the Russian and the Chinese leader at the trilateral meet, adding that the leaders felt that the three countries "should coordinate in various areas to contribute to global peace." Foreign Secy: They all felt that we should work together to steer global economic governance. They felt that 3 countries should work together in areas where we could promote peace and stability in regional crisis. We should work together on terrorism, disaster relief&assistance pic.twitter.com/vp09ZDwq1e — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × "They all felt that we should work together to steer global economic governance. They felt that the three countries should work together in areas where we could promote peace and stability in the regional crisis. We should work together on terrorism, disaster relief and assistance," Gokhale added. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi at the Summit suggested that the Financial Action Task Force or FATF should formulate a standard definition of fugitive economic offenders.

G20 Summit: Russia, India, China agree to work on terrorism, disaster relief, global peace

China was looking to boost agricultural exports to India while increasing imports of rapeseed and soymeal from the country, President Xi Jinping told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of a G20 meeting on Friday.

China's Xi also indicated greater trade in the pharmaceuticals sector between the two nations, India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale, who was travelling with Modi, said, detailing the deliberations between the two leaders.

"On the economic side, President Xi Jinping referred to enhanced imports of rice and sugar from India and spoke of&nbsp;possibility of greater imports of soymeal and rapeseed," he said.

The meeting at the G20 summit was the fourth between Xi and Modi this year as the leaders looked to build on a thaw in ties between the two countries after a military standoff on their disputed border last year, officials told&nbsp;on Thursday.

India's commerce ministry and a six-member Chinese delegation signed an agreement on Wednesday allowing Beijing to inspect imports of Indian fish meal and fish oil in an effort to ease market access for exports of various farm products.

China was looking to boost agricultural exports to India while increasing imports of rapeseed and soymeal from the country, President Xi Jinping told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of a G20 meeting on Friday.

China was looking to boost agricultural exports to India while increasing imports of rapeseed and soymeal from the country, President Xi Jinping told Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of a G20 meeting on Friday. China's Xi also indicated greater trade in the pharmaceuticals sector between the two nations, India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale, who was travelling with Modi, said, detailing the deliberations between the two leaders. "On the economic side, President Xi Jinping referred to enhanced imports of rice and sugar from India and spoke of possibility of greater imports of soymeal and rapeseed," he said. The meeting at the G20 summit was the fourth between Xi and Modi this year as the leaders looked to build on a thaw in ties between the two countries after a military standoff on their disputed border last year, officials told on Thursday. India's commerce ministry and a six-member Chinese delegation signed an agreement on Wednesday allowing Beijing to inspect imports of Indian fish meal and fish oil in an effort to ease market access for exports of various farm products.

China looking to boost agricultural exports to India, President Xi tells PM Modi

India has asked Ethiopian authorities to investigate a report that employees of an Indian company, Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&amp;FS), have been taken hostage by staff in Ethiopia, an Indian government source said on Saturday.

Seven Indian employees of the debt-laden IL&amp;FS company have been held hostage by Ethiopian staff because of non-payment of salaries, according to messages posted on Twitter by those saying they were being held.

An Indian foreign ministry official said India was discussing the matter "on priority" with Ethiopian authorities and the management of IL&amp;FS.

"We are doing our best to ensure a settlement of this matter," said the official, who declined to be identified. An IL&amp;FS spokesman in India declined to comment.

The Indian government took control of IL&amp;FS last month after it defaulted on some of its debt, triggering wider concerns about risk in the country's financial system.&nbsp;

The infrastructure financing and development company had over the years developed road, township and water-treatment projects in India and abroad.

Neeraj Raghuwanshi, who said he was one of the seven employees held hostage, has been calling for help on Twitter since November 27.

"Situations are beyond our control, please #help before mishappening," Raghuwanshi said late on Friday in a tweet, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the foreign minister to intervene.

Raghuwanshi said the seven IL&amp;FS employees were held in three different locations in Ethiopia, following delayed salaries to staff and non-payment of local government taxes.

Another IL&amp;FS member of staff who said he was being hostage, Khurram Imam, wrote on Twitter they were facing "lots of problems like foods, water, electricity".

Reuters could not independently verify the authenticity of the tweets or claims made by people saying they were held hostage.&nbsp;

Raghuwanshi did not respond to an email seeking comment while Imam could not be reached for a comment. 
&nbsp;

India has asked Ethiopian authorities to investigate a report that employees of an Indian company, Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS), have been taken hostage by staff in Ethiopia, an Indian government source said on Saturday.

India has asked Ethiopian authorities to investigate a report that employees of an Indian company, Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS), have been taken hostage by staff in Ethiopia, an Indian government source said on Saturday. Seven Indian employees of the debt-laden IL&FS company have been held hostage by Ethiopian staff because of non-payment of salaries, according to messages posted on Twitter by those saying they were being held. An Indian foreign ministry official said India was discussing the matter "on priority" with Ethiopian authorities and the management of IL&FS. "We are doing our best to ensure a settlement of this matter," said the official, who declined to be identified. An IL&FS spokesman in India declined to comment. The Indian government took control of IL&FS last month after it defaulted on some of its debt, triggering wider concerns about risk in the country's financial system. The infrastructure financing and development company had over the years developed road, township and water-treatment projects in India and abroad. Neeraj Raghuwanshi, who said he was one of the seven employees held hostage, has been calling for help on Twitter since November 27. "Situations are beyond our control, please #help before mishappening," Raghuwanshi said late on Friday in a tweet, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the foreign minister to intervene. Raghuwanshi said the seven IL&FS employees were held in three different locations in Ethiopia, following delayed salaries to staff and non-payment of local government taxes. Another IL&FS member of staff who said he was being hostage, Khurram Imam, wrote on Twitter they were facing "lots of problems like foods, water, electricity". Reuters could not independently verify the authenticity of the tweets or claims made by people saying they were held hostage. Raghuwanshi did not respond to an email seeking comment while Imam could not be reached for a comment.

India checking report IL&FS employees held hostage by staff in Ethiopia

In a major step towards bolstering its defence power, India has approved defence purchase of 3,000 crore rupees with Russia, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The Defence Acquisition Council has approved the defence procurement deal which includes BrahMos missiles and the construction of two Indian ships, to be built in Russia, as primary weapons.

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Defence Acquisition Council approves defence procurement of about Rs 3000 cr including Brahmos Missiles for two Indian ships to be built in Russia as primary weapon on board. DRDO designed &amp; developed Armoured Recovery Vehicles also approved for procurement for Army's MBT Arjun. <a href="https://t.co/WLgyQ5gfdB">pic.twitter.com/WLgyQ5gfdB</a>
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The approval has also been made for the procurement of DRDO-developed Armoured Recovery Vehicles for Army's MBT Arjun.

India and Russia concluded the $ 5 billion S-400 air defence system deal early in October this year.

More than 80 per cent of India's military equipment was of Soviet origin during the days of the Cold War, but since its breakup, New Delhi has diversified its weaponry.

In a major step towards bolstering its defence power, India has approved defence purchase of 3,000 crore rupees with Russia, news agency ANI reported. The Defence Acquisition Council has approved the defence procurement deal which includes BrahMos missiles and the construction of two Indian ships, to be built in Russia, as primary weapons.

In a major step towards bolstering its defence power, India has approved defence purchase of 3,000 crore rupees with Russia, news agency ANI reported. The Defence Acquisition Council has approved the defence procurement deal which includes BrahMos missiles and the construction of two Indian ships, to be built in Russia, as primary weapons. Defence Acquisition Council approves defence procurement of about Rs 3000 cr including Brahmos Missiles for two Indian ships to be built in Russia as primary weapon on board. DRDO designed & developed Armoured Recovery Vehicles also approved for procurement for Army's MBT Arjun. pic.twitter.com/WLgyQ5gfdB — ANI (@ANI) December 1, 2018 × The approval has also been made for the procurement of DRDO-developed Armoured Recovery Vehicles for Army's MBT Arjun. India and Russia concluded the $ 5 billion S-400 air defence system deal early in October this year. More than 80 per cent of India's military equipment was of Soviet origin during the days of the Cold War, but since its breakup, New Delhi has diversified its weaponry.

India bolsters defence power, approves purchase of Rs 3,000 crore with Russia

Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday state Pakistan has made its state an Islamic one and if the country wants to "stay together with India" they will need to "develop as a secular state."

"We are a secular state. If they're willing to become secular like us, then they seem to have an opportunity," General Rawat noted, adding that India has a clear policy on terrorism and that terror and talks can't go together.&nbsp;

"They're (Pakistan) saying you take one step, we'll take two. There is a contradiction in what they're saying. One step from there should come in a positive manner, we'll see if the step has an effect on the ground. Till then, our nation has a clear policy-- terror and talks can't go together," the Army Chief stated.&nbsp;

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Army Chief General Bipin Rawat: Pakistan has made its state an Islamic State. If they have to stay together with India, then they've to develop as a secular state. We are a secular state. If they're willing to become secular like us, then they seem to have an opportunity <a href="https://t.co/1Os8jBzfRh">pic.twitter.com/1Os8jBzfRh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1068361799999868928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Wednesday General Rawat said that&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-has-changed-the-demography-of-pok-army-chief-general-bipin-rawat-180110">Pakistan has altered the demography of PoK</a> and the identity of Kashmiris on that side has been systematically eroded, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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Army Chief: They're (Pak) saying you take one step, we'll take 2. There is contraditcion in what they're saying. 1 step from there should come in a positive manner,we'll see if the step has effect on ground.Till then our nation has a clear policy- terror &amp; talks can't go together <a href="https://t.co/QzhbsNQQLu">pic.twitter.com/QzhbsNQQLu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1068364010028969986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He disapproved of suggestions about sending back security forces "to barracks" whenever there is "a little bit of peace" in Kashmir, saying it will give terrorists time to revamp their networks and asserted that there was a need to maintain sustained pressure "to control the situation".

Rawat said the situation needs to be brought to a level where the terror groups are not able to revamp.

"You have to bring them to a level where they (terrorists) are not able to revamp, get the leadership out and make sure they have very few weapons left with them and they do not have opportunities to carry out conglomeration and get together wherever they want to," the Army chief said.

Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday state Pakistan has made its state an Islamic one and if the country wants to "stay together with India" they will need to "develop as a secular state.

Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday state Pakistan has made its state an Islamic one and if the country wants to "stay together with India" they will need to "develop as a secular state." "We are a secular state. If they're willing to become secular like us, then they seem to have an opportunity," General Rawat noted, adding that India has a clear policy on terrorism and that terror and talks can't go together. "They're (Pakistan) saying you take one step, we'll take two. There is a contradiction in what they're saying. One step from there should come in a positive manner, we'll see if the step has an effect on the ground. Till then, our nation has a clear policy-- terror and talks can't go together," the Army Chief stated. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat: Pakistan has made its state an Islamic State. If they have to stay together with India, then they've to develop as a secular state. We are a secular state. If they're willing to become secular like us, then they seem to have an opportunity pic.twitter.com/1Os8jBzfRh — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × On Wednesday General Rawat said that Pakistan has altered the demography of PoK and the identity of Kashmiris on that side has been systematically eroded, news agency PTI reported. Army Chief: They're (Pak) saying you take one step, we'll take 2. There is contraditcion in what they're saying. 1 step from there should come in a positive manner,we'll see if the step has effect on ground.Till then our nation has a clear policy- terror & talks can't go together pic.twitter.com/QzhbsNQQLu — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × He disapproved of suggestions about sending back security forces "to barracks" whenever there is "a little bit of peace" in Kashmir, saying it will give terrorists time to revamp their networks and asserted that there was a need to maintain sustained pressure "to control the situation". Rawat said the situation needs to be brought to a level where the terror groups are not able to revamp. "You have to bring them to a level where they (terrorists) are not able to revamp, get the leadership out and make sure they have very few weapons left with them and they do not have opportunities to carry out conglomeration and get together wherever they want to," the Army chief said.

Terror and talks can't go together, Pak needs to develop as secular state: General Rawat 

India will be taking part in two major trilaterals on Friday. One with Japan and US, another with China and Russia. The very first trilateral with Japan, America will take place on Friday. It was United States National Security Advisor Ambassador John Bolton who announced it and said," (Trump will be meeting)...Prime Minister Abe of Japan. That will transform at some point during that meeting into a trilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi."

This is an important trilateral coming on the background of Indo-Pacific concept gaining currency and quad meeting--India, Japan, Australia and the US-- taking place earlier this year in Singapore.

The second meeting with Russia and China (RIC) will take place after an interval of twelve years.

The timing of the&nbsp;meetings is directly related to the&nbsp;period of major global developments from trade wars to climate change issue. Sources told WION that, "It is indicative of India's growing diplomatic and economic profile in the world."

Sources added that it is "recognition of India assuming the leadership role on global issues of people's concerns such as climate change, renewable energy, corruption and disaster resilient infrastructure. Reflection of our willingness to contribute in a positive and a constructive way in strengthening multilateral institutions like WTO and trying to build a consensus on new ideas like Indo-Pacific."

BRICS informal summit will also take place which has been a permanent fixture on the sidelines of G20 summits.

Last year in 2017 the BRICS Informal summit took place on the sidelines of the 12th G20 summit during which the Indian PM met Chinese President Xi Jinping which helped in brokering peace at a time when the Doklam crisis was looming large on Sino-India ties. 
&nbsp;

India will be taking part in two major trilaterals on Friday. One with Japan and US, another with China and Russia. The very first trilateral with Japan, America will take place on Friday.

India will be taking part in two major trilaterals on Friday. One with Japan and US, another with China and Russia. The very first trilateral with Japan, America will take place on Friday. It was United States National Security Advisor Ambassador John Bolton who announced it and said," (Trump will be meeting)...Prime Minister Abe of Japan. That will transform at some point during that meeting into a trilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi." This is an important trilateral coming on the background of Indo-Pacific concept gaining currency and quad meeting--India, Japan, Australia and the US-- taking place earlier this year in Singapore. The second meeting with Russia and China (RIC) will take place after an interval of twelve years. The timing of the meetings is directly related to the period of major global developments from trade wars to climate change issue. Sources told WION that, "It is indicative of India's growing diplomatic and economic profile in the world." Sources added that it is "recognition of India assuming the leadership role on global issues of people's concerns such as climate change, renewable energy, corruption and disaster resilient infrastructure. Reflection of our willingness to contribute in a positive and a constructive way in strengthening multilateral institutions like WTO and trying to build a consensus on new ideas like Indo-Pacific." BRICS informal summit will also take place which has been a permanent fixture on the sidelines of G20 summits. Last year in 2017 the BRICS Informal summit took place on the sidelines of the 12th G20 summit during which the Indian PM met Chinese President Xi Jinping which helped in brokering peace at a time when the Doklam crisis was looming large on Sino-India ties.

G20 Summit: A day of trilaterals for India 

Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday conceded that it was not in the interest of Pakistan to allow its territories to be used for terror activities in other countries and said he was ready to hold talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to bring peace between the two neighbours.

Khan's remarks came a day after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj categorically ruled out the possibility of holding talks with Pakistan unless it stops cross-border terror activities in India.

Referring to his call for improving ties with India, Khan at the same time said the one-sided initiative will not last long and that Pakistan was willing to wait for reciprocity from India till general elections are held there.

"It is not in our interest to allow use of Pakistan's territory for terror outside our country," Khan, who completed 100 days in office Thursday, told a group of Indian journalists.&nbsp;

After a spate of terror attacks by Pakistan-based terror groups including on the Pathankot air force base, India refused to engage with Pakistan till it contains cross-border terrorism.

Khan said that people in Pakistan want peace with India and he will be happy to meet Modi and talk to him on any issue, adding the mindset of Pakistani people have changed and they want peace.

"I am ready for talks on any issue. There can't be a military solution for Kashmir," he said, adding "nothing is impossible" when asked whether it is possible to resolve the vexed Kashmir issue.

Asked whether his government will take action against India's 'Most Wanted' terrorist Dawood Ibrahim, Khan evaded a direct reply saying, "We can't live in the past. We should leave behind the past and look forward. We also have a list of wanted people in India."

On whether Pakistan will show some "grand gesture" like taking action against Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed to make the ground for normalisation of relations with India, Khan skipped a direct response, but suggested that India's response to peace overtures was important for any possible grand gesture.

"There are UN sanctions against Hafiz Saeed and his organisation. The sanctions are severe. There is already a clampdown on him," he said.&nbsp; 
Saeed's Jamat-ud Dawah (JuD) was declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The group is a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit.

Saeed is the co-founder of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, which was responsible for the attacks in which 166 people were killed in November 2008. He was put under house arrest after the 26/11 attack, but was freed by a court in 2009.

On trail of the 26/11 accused, Khan said he inherited the issue and that the case is sub judice.

"I canot take responsibility for the past," he said.

Elaborating on the Kashmir issue, Khan said, "India should look at the Kashmir issue differently and not as a territorial issue. If nothing else, we want the government of India to o something for people of Kashmir."

On India taking objection to his mentioning of the Kashmir issue during his address at the ground-breaking ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor on Wednesday, Khan said he was only trying to explain that a solution to the issue is not impossible if both sides sit together and talk.

The Pakistan Prime Minister emphasised that Kashmir was a major issue between the two countries and said even former prime minister Manmohan Singh few years back had commented that the Kashmir issue was holding both India and Pakistan back.

Khan also referred to meeting with Atal Bihari Vajpayee and quoted the former prime minister as saying that if the BJP had not lost 2004 elections, there was a possibility of resolution of the Kashmir issue.

"I said nothing is impossible. In that context, I mentioned Kashmir (at Kartarpur event)," said Khan.

"From the very first day I have been saying that we want to improve ties with India? Why would anyone be scared of dialogue," he said.

Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday conceded that it was not in the interest of Pakistan to allow its territories to be used for terror activities in other countries and said he was ready to hold talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to bring peace between the two neighbours.

Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday conceded that it was not in the interest of Pakistan to allow its territories to be used for terror activities in other countries and said he was ready to hold talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to bring peace between the two neighbours. Khan's remarks came a day after External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj categorically ruled out the possibility of holding talks with Pakistan unless it stops cross-border terror activities in India. Referring to his call for improving ties with India, Khan at the same time said the one-sided initiative will not last long and that Pakistan was willing to wait for reciprocity from India till general elections are held there. "It is not in our interest to allow use of Pakistan's territory for terror outside our country," Khan, who completed 100 days in office Thursday, told a group of Indian journalists. After a spate of terror attacks by Pakistan-based terror groups including on the Pathankot air force base, India refused to engage with Pakistan till it contains cross-border terrorism. Khan said that people in Pakistan want peace with India and he will be happy to meet Modi and talk to him on any issue, adding the mindset of Pakistani people have changed and they want peace. "I am ready for talks on any issue. There can't be a military solution for Kashmir," he said, adding "nothing is impossible" when asked whether it is possible to resolve the vexed Kashmir issue. Asked whether his government will take action against India's 'Most Wanted' terrorist Dawood Ibrahim, Khan evaded a direct reply saying, "We can't live in the past. We should leave behind the past and look forward. We also have a list of wanted people in India." On whether Pakistan will show some "grand gesture" like taking action against Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed to make the ground for normalisation of relations with India, Khan skipped a direct response, but suggested that India's response to peace overtures was important for any possible grand gesture. "There are UN sanctions against Hafiz Saeed and his organisation. The sanctions are severe. There is already a clampdown on him," he said. Saeed's Jamat-ud Dawah (JuD) was declared as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US in June 2014. The group is a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror outfit. Saeed is the co-founder of the Lashkar-e-Taiba, which was responsible for the attacks in which 166 people were killed in November 2008. He was put under house arrest after the 26/11 attack, but was freed by a court in 2009. On trail of the 26/11 accused, Khan said he inherited the issue and that the case is sub judice. "I canot take responsibility for the past," he said. Elaborating on the Kashmir issue, Khan said, "India should look at the Kashmir issue differently and not as a territorial issue. If nothing else, we want the government of India to o something for people of Kashmir." On India taking objection to his mentioning of the Kashmir issue during his address at the ground-breaking ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor on Wednesday, Khan said he was only trying to explain that a solution to the issue is not impossible if both sides sit together and talk. The Pakistan Prime Minister emphasised that Kashmir was a major issue between the two countries and said even former prime minister Manmohan Singh few years back had commented that the Kashmir issue was holding both India and Pakistan back. Khan also referred to meeting with Atal Bihari Vajpayee and quoted the former prime minister as saying that if the BJP had not lost 2004 elections, there was a possibility of resolution of the Kashmir issue. "I said nothing is impossible. In that context, I mentioned Kashmir (at Kartarpur event)," said Khan. "From the very first day I have been saying that we want to improve ties with India? Why would anyone be scared of dialogue," he said.

Not in our interest to allow territories to be used for terror activities in other countries: Khan

Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday expressed dissatisfaction over the current economic growth of the country and stated that India should have been a five to six trillion US dollar economy.

"Today, the Indian economy is worth 2.268 trillion US dollar. I am not satisfied. As a former Finance Minister, I think we should have done much more progress. It should have been five to six trillion US dollar economy," Mukherjee said while addressing a seminar at the Greenwood High International School here.

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Former President Pranab Mukherjee in Bengaluru: Today Indian economy is worth 2.268 trillion US dollar. I am not satisfied. As a former finance minister, I think we should have done much more progress. It should have been five to six trillion US dollar economy. (28.11.2018) <a href="https://t.co/tLrtrK5sYu">pic.twitter.com/tLrtrK5sYu</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1067876357559017472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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However, the former President appreciated the country`s achievements in the field of science and technology.

"We are the only country till today out of 184 members of the United Nations, who succeeded in sending its orbiter to Mars in its very first attempt," Mukherjee said."We are the third military power of the world," he said.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday expressed dissatisfaction over the current economic growth of the country and stated that India should have been a five to six trillion US dollar economy.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday expressed dissatisfaction over the current economic growth of the country and stated that India should have been a five to six trillion US dollar economy. "Today, the Indian economy is worth 2.268 trillion US dollar. I am not satisfied. As a former Finance Minister, I think we should have done much more progress. It should have been five to six trillion US dollar economy," Mukherjee said while addressing a seminar at the Greenwood High International School here. Former President Pranab Mukherjee in Bengaluru: Today Indian economy is worth 2.268 trillion US dollar. I am not satisfied. As a former finance minister, I think we should have done much more progress. It should have been five to six trillion US dollar economy. (28.11.2018) pic.twitter.com/tLrtrK5sYu — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × However, the former President appreciated the country`s achievements in the field of science and technology. "We are the only country till today out of 184 members of the United Nations, who succeeded in sending its orbiter to Mars in its very first attempt," Mukherjee said."We are the third military power of the world," he said.

India should have been a $5-6 trillion economy by now: Pranab Mukherjee

US President Donald Trump on Monday expressed support for India's fight against terrorism and remembered those who lost their lives in the ghastly Mumbai terror attacks on November 26, 2008.&nbsp;

In a tweet, the US President noted that the "US stands with the people of India in their quest for justice," adding that terrorists will never "come close to winning."

"On the ten-year anniversary of the Mumbai terror attack, the US&nbsp;stands with the people of India in their quest for justice. The attack killed 166 innocents, including six Americans. We will never let terrorists win, or even come close to winning!," his tweet read.&nbsp;

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On the ten-year anniversary of the Mumbai terror attack, the U.S. stands with the people of India in their quest for justice. The attack killed 166 innocents, including six Americans. We will never let terrorists win, or even come close to winning!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1067142262545674240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The United States Monday announced <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2611-attacks-us-announces-5-million-reward-for-information-on-perpetrators-179416">a $5 million reward</a> for information leading to the arrest or conviction in any country of any individual who committed, conspired, aided or abetted the 2008 Mumbai attack.

The Trump Administration announced this major reward (of more than Rs 35 crore) on the 10th anniversary of the terror attack in which 10-Pakistan based LeT terrorists went on a shooting rampage in India's financial hub killing 166 people, including six Americans.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Monday welcomed the statement made by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the 10th anniversary of &nbsp;Mumbai terror attacks and called upon Pakistan to bring to justice perpetrators of the crime.

''I welcome the statement made by US Secretary of State Mr Mike Pompeo on the 10th anniversary of Mumbai terror attacks calling upon Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of the attack. I urge Pakistan to heed the call of international community and fulfil it's its international obligations by implementing sanctions against those responsible for this historic act of terror,'' said the statement tweeted by EAM spokesperson Raveesh Kumar attributed to the external affairs minister.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Monday expressed support for India's fight against terrorism and remembered those who lost their lives in the ghastly Mumbai terror attacks on November 26, 2008.

US President Donald Trump on Monday expressed support for India's fight against terrorism and remembered those who lost their lives in the ghastly Mumbai terror attacks on November 26, 2008. In a tweet, the US President noted that the "US stands with the people of India in their quest for justice," adding that terrorists will never "come close to winning." "On the ten-year anniversary of the Mumbai terror attack, the US stands with the people of India in their quest for justice. The attack killed 166 innocents, including six Americans. We will never let terrorists win, or even come close to winning!," his tweet read. On the ten-year anniversary of the Mumbai terror attack, the U.S. stands with the people of India in their quest for justice. The attack killed 166 innocents, including six Americans. We will never let terrorists win, or even come close to winning! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 26, 2018 × The United States Monday announced a $5 million reward for information leading to the arrest or conviction in any country of any individual who committed, conspired, aided or abetted the 2008 Mumbai attack. The Trump Administration announced this major reward (of more than Rs 35 crore) on the 10th anniversary of the terror attack in which 10-Pakistan based LeT terrorists went on a shooting rampage in India's financial hub killing 166 people, including six Americans. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Monday welcomed the statement made by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the 10th anniversary of Mumbai terror attacks and called upon Pakistan to bring to justice perpetrators of the crime. ''I welcome the statement made by US Secretary of State Mr Mike Pompeo on the 10th anniversary of Mumbai terror attacks calling upon Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of the attack. I urge Pakistan to heed the call of international community and fulfil it's its international obligations by implementing sanctions against those responsible for this historic act of terror,'' said the statement tweeted by EAM spokesperson Raveesh Kumar attributed to the external affairs minister.

US stands with India in its quest for justice: Trump on 26/11

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday will lay the foundation stone for the construction of Dera Baba Nanak-Karatarpur Sahib road corridor.

The corridor will reach up to the international border with Pakistan. The foundation stone laying ceremony will be performed in the Mann village of Gurdaspur district in Punjab. Vice President Naidu will be accompanied by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has also announced that the party leadership and workers would take part in the ground-breaking ceremony of the proposed corridor to Shri Kartarpur Sahib on the Indian soil while singing hymns of Gurbani on November 26.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pak-agree-to-build-kartarpur-corridor-imran-khan-to-break-ground-on-november-28-178837">The decision to build the corridor</a> from Dera Baba Nanak to the International Border was taken on November 22 by the Union Cabinet. On the same day Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, had announced that Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan would be breaking ground for the Kartarpur corridor on November 28.

The development of the corridor will facilitate lakhs of pilgrims from India to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur on the banks of river Ravi, in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev spent 18 years.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had issued a Note Verbale to the Pakistani Government, urging it to develop a corridor with suitable facilities in its territory from the International Border to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib to facilitate the easy access and passage of Indian pilgrims throughout the year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while participating in the Gurpurab celebrations on November 23 had said that Kartarpur Corridor could be a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-will-act-as-a-bridge-for-people-of-india-and-pakistan-pm-modi-179055">reason to connect people</a>, adding that the incidents of 1947 should be left behind.

He had also added that if the Berlin Wall, which restricted the relationship between the people of East and West Germany could be pulled down, then the Kartarpur Corridor between India and Pakistan can also promote people to people contact.

The Pakistan Government on November 23, extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab cabinet minister and former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor on November 28.

The invitation was, however, declined by Swaraj citing her prior commitments pertaining to election campaigns. Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri would be representing the Indian government in the groundbreaking ceremony.

A day later, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also declined Pakistan's invitation to attend the Kartarpur Corridor foundation-laying ceremony to be held on November 28, citing continued terrorist attacks in his state and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan armed forces as the reason.

Interestingly, Punjab Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu has accepted the invitation and will be attending the opening ceremony of Kartarpur corridor. 
&nbsp;

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday will lay the foundation stone for the construction of Dera Baba Nanak-Karatarpur Sahib road corridor. The corridor will reach up to the international border with Pakistan.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday will lay the foundation stone for the construction of Dera Baba Nanak-Karatarpur Sahib road corridor. The corridor will reach up to the international border with Pakistan. The foundation stone laying ceremony will be performed in the Mann village of Gurdaspur district in Punjab. Vice President Naidu will be accompanied by Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh. The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has also announced that the party leadership and workers would take part in the ground-breaking ceremony of the proposed corridor to Shri Kartarpur Sahib on the Indian soil while singing hymns of Gurbani on November 26. The decision to build the corridor from Dera Baba Nanak to the International Border was taken on November 22 by the Union Cabinet. On the same day Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, had announced that Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan would be breaking ground for the Kartarpur corridor on November 28. The development of the corridor will facilitate lakhs of pilgrims from India to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur on the banks of river Ravi, in Pakistan, where Guru Nanak Dev spent 18 years. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had issued a Note Verbale to the Pakistani Government, urging it to develop a corridor with suitable facilities in its territory from the International Border to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib to facilitate the easy access and passage of Indian pilgrims throughout the year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while participating in the Gurpurab celebrations on November 23 had said that Kartarpur Corridor could be a reason to connect people, adding that the incidents of 1947 should be left behind. He had also added that if the Berlin Wall, which restricted the relationship between the people of East and West Germany could be pulled down, then the Kartarpur Corridor between India and Pakistan can also promote people to people contact. The Pakistan Government on November 23, extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab cabinet minister and former cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor on November 28. The invitation was, however, declined by Swaraj citing her prior commitments pertaining to election campaigns. Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri would be representing the Indian government in the groundbreaking ceremony. A day later, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also declined Pakistan's invitation to attend the Kartarpur Corridor foundation-laying ceremony to be held on November 28, citing continued terrorist attacks in his state and killings of Indian soldiers by Pakistan armed forces as the reason. Interestingly, Punjab Cabinet Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu has accepted the invitation and will be attending the opening ceremony of Kartarpur corridor.

Vice President Naidu to lay foundation of Kartarpur corridor today

Pakistan on Sunday welcomed India's decision to send its two Union ministers to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor next week, terming it a "positive response".

Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan is located across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. It was established by the Sikh Guru in 1522. The first Gurdwara, Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib, was built here, where Guru Nanak Dev is said to have died.

Both India and Pakistan have announced that stretches would be developed in their respective areas, linking Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district with the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan.

Pak Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi welcomed India's decision to send Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, Radio Pakistan reported. Qureshi termed India's decision as a "positive response to Pakistan's move", it said.

"India has responded well to Pakistan's initiative in its bid to bring the Sikh community closer," he told the Associated Press of Pakistan during his visit to the stall of Indian High Commission at the Pakistan Foreign Office Women's Association charity bazar here.

India's High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria received Foreign Minister Qureshi at the stall.

Qureshi said Pakistan has won the hearts of millions of Sikhs with a single but significant step and expressed confidence that the Kartarpur corridor would attract members of the Sikh community to Pakistan from across the globe including the United States and the United Kingdom.

He said that the Sikh community will be greeted here amid sentiments of love and would take back positive image about Pakistan and its people.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said that the opening of the Kartarpur border showed that Pakistan stands with peace in the region.

"Pakistan through its conduct has once again shown who stands for peace in South Asia and which force is not sincere. PM Imran Khan has clearly shown Pakistan stands for peace.&nbsp;

Kartarpur border opening is history in the making, history will judge those who stood on the wrong side," he tweeted.

On Saturday, Qureshi extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and state minister Navjot Singh Sidhu to attend the ceremony at Kartarpur on November 28.

Swaraj thanked him for the invite and said that India will send Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri to Pakistan next week to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor.

Amarinder declined Pakistan's invite while Sidhu accepted the request with "with unalloyed joy".

The corridor, once built, will give Indian pilgrims easy access to the shrine.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will inaugurate the groundbreaking ceremony of the corridor on the Pakistani side on November 28.

The India-Pakistan ties nose-dived in recent years with no bilateral talks taking place. The ties between the two countries had strained after the terror attacks by Pakistan-based groups in 201

Pakistan on Sunday welcomed India's decision to send its two Union ministers to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor next week, terming it a "positive response".

Pakistan on Sunday welcomed India's decision to send its two Union ministers to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor next week, terming it a "positive response". Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan is located across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. It was established by the Sikh Guru in 1522. The first Gurdwara, Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib, was built here, where Guru Nanak Dev is said to have died. Both India and Pakistan have announced that stretches would be developed in their respective areas, linking Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district with the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan. Pak Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi welcomed India's decision to send Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri, Radio Pakistan reported. Qureshi termed India's decision as a "positive response to Pakistan's move", it said. "India has responded well to Pakistan's initiative in its bid to bring the Sikh community closer," he told the Associated Press of Pakistan during his visit to the stall of Indian High Commission at the Pakistan Foreign Office Women's Association charity bazar here. India's High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria received Foreign Minister Qureshi at the stall. Qureshi said Pakistan has won the hearts of millions of Sikhs with a single but significant step and expressed confidence that the Kartarpur corridor would attract members of the Sikh community to Pakistan from across the globe including the United States and the United Kingdom. He said that the Sikh community will be greeted here amid sentiments of love and would take back positive image about Pakistan and its people. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said that the opening of the Kartarpur border showed that Pakistan stands with peace in the region. "Pakistan through its conduct has once again shown who stands for peace in South Asia and which force is not sincere. PM Imran Khan has clearly shown Pakistan stands for peace. Kartarpur border opening is history in the making, history will judge those who stood on the wrong side," he tweeted. On Saturday, Qureshi extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and state minister Navjot Singh Sidhu to attend the ceremony at Kartarpur on November 28. Swaraj thanked him for the invite and said that India will send Union ministers Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Hardeep Singh Puri to Pakistan next week to attend the groundbreaking ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor. Amarinder declined Pakistan's invite while Sidhu accepted the request with "with unalloyed joy". The corridor, once built, will give Indian pilgrims easy access to the shrine. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will inaugurate the groundbreaking ceremony of the corridor on the Pakistani side on November 28. The India-Pakistan ties nose-dived in recent years with no bilateral talks taking place. The ties between the two countries had strained after the terror attacks by Pakistan-based groups in 201

Pak welcomes India's move to send ministers for Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony 

India has decided to fast-track three projects, including construction of two dams, to arrest the unutilised water of its share under the bilateral Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, government officials said.

The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir, they said.

"These (three) projects were stuck in red tape and inter-state disputes. But it has been decided to expedite the execution of these projects," one of them added.

Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries -- the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi -- have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

Of the total 168 million acre-feet, India's share of water from the three allotted rivers is 33 million acre-feet, which constitutes nearly 20 per cent.

"India uses nearly 93-94 per cent of its share under the Indus Waters Treaty. The rest of the water remains unutilised and goes to Pakistan," an official added.

The Ujh dam is a proposed hydroelectricity and irrigation multipurpose project in the Kathua district of Jammu over the Ravi river with a capacity to generate 196 MW of electricity.

The total water utilisation from this project is 172.8 million cusec metre (mc), but it has the capacity to store 925 mcm of water, the officials said. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 5,950 crore.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has forwarded the Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the Centre for its appraisal, which is expected to be okayed by the Advisory Committee of the Ministry of Water Resources for clearance, they said.

After the Uri attack in Kashmir in September 2016, the government had sought to use the Indus Waters Treaty to put pressure on Pakistan. The measures included effectively using India's share of waters that flow into Pakistan. This also included fast-tracking irrigation and hydropower projects by resolving the inter-state disputes.

The Centre has also asked the Punjab government to prepare a feasibility report of the second Ravi-Beas link that is expected to further help in increasing utilisation of India's share of water under the treaty.

In September, the Punjab and the Jammu and Kashmir governments signed an agreement to resume works on the Rs 2,793-crore Shahpur Kandi project.

Though the work on the project began in 2013, it was halted due to certain issues raised by the J&amp;K.&nbsp;

The Punjab government also submitted a revised cost estimate of Rs 2,793.54 crore and requested the Centre to include the project in the prioritised list of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)/Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) projects.

The project, when implemented, will enable the up-stream Ranjit Sagar Dam project power station to act as a peaking station, besides having its own generation capacity of 206 MW and irrigation benefit of 37,173-hectare to Punjab and J&amp;K.

India has decided to fast-track three projects, including construction of two dams, to arrest the unutilised water of its share under the bilateral Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, government officials said.

India has decided to fast-track three projects, including construction of two dams, to arrest the unutilised water of its share under the bilateral Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, government officials said. The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir, they said. "These (three) projects were stuck in red tape and inter-state disputes. But it has been decided to expedite the execution of these projects," one of them added. Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries -- the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi -- have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan. Of the total 168 million acre-feet, India's share of water from the three allotted rivers is 33 million acre-feet, which constitutes nearly 20 per cent. "India uses nearly 93-94 per cent of its share under the Indus Waters Treaty. The rest of the water remains unutilised and goes to Pakistan," an official added. The Ujh dam is a proposed hydroelectricity and irrigation multipurpose project in the Kathua district of Jammu over the Ravi river with a capacity to generate 196 MW of electricity. The total water utilisation from this project is 172.8 million cusec metre (mc), but it has the capacity to store 925 mcm of water, the officials said. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 5,950 crore. The Jammu and Kashmir government has forwarded the Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the Centre for its appraisal, which is expected to be okayed by the Advisory Committee of the Ministry of Water Resources for clearance, they said. After the Uri attack in Kashmir in September 2016, the government had sought to use the Indus Waters Treaty to put pressure on Pakistan. The measures included effectively using India's share of waters that flow into Pakistan. This also included fast-tracking irrigation and hydropower projects by resolving the inter-state disputes. The Centre has also asked the Punjab government to prepare a feasibility report of the second Ravi-Beas link that is expected to further help in increasing utilisation of India's share of water under the treaty. In September, the Punjab and the Jammu and Kashmir governments signed an agreement to resume works on the Rs 2,793-crore Shahpur Kandi project. Though the work on the project began in 2013, it was halted due to certain issues raised by the J&K. The Punjab government also submitted a revised cost estimate of Rs 2,793.54 crore and requested the Centre to include the project in the prioritised list of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)/Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) projects. The project, when implemented, will enable the up-stream Ranjit Sagar Dam project power station to act as a peaking station, besides having its own generation capacity of 206 MW and irrigation benefit of 37,173-hectare to Punjab and J&K.

India to expedite 3 projects to stop its share of Indus waters from flowing into Pakistan 

In what can be seen as a step forward in India-Pakistan relations, India will be sending two ministers to take part in Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony on November 28, which will be done by Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. India will be represented by Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing &amp; Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri.&nbsp;

In a tweet, External Affairs Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/swaraj-invited-to-pakistan-to-attend-ceremony-of-kartarpur-corridor-qureshi-179200">Sushma Swaraj</a> said, "We welcome this proposal and we are sending two Ministers to represent Government of India"&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Please do not spread disinformation. We welcome this proposal and we are sending two Ministers to represent Government of India. <a href="https://t.co/Xiciu74ljy">https://t.co/Xiciu74ljy</a>
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1066385488267755522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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She also hoped that the Government of Pakistan will "expedite the construction of the corridor" in order to ensure that "our citizens can pay their respects at the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor as soon as possible."

This comes after Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, along with Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab tourism minister Navjot Singh Sidhu. Navjot Singh Sidhu has already confirmed that he will be going for the ceremony on November 28.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
On behalf of Pakistan I have extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> ,Capt Amarinder Singh <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a> &amp; Navjot Singh Sidhu <a href="https://twitter.com/sherryontopp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sherryontopp</a> to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kartarpura?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kartarpura</a> on 28 Nov, 2018.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanKartarpuraSpirit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanKartarpuraSpirit</a>
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/SMQureshiPTI/status/1066336238129618944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Senator Faisal Javed Khan telephoned Navjot Singh Sidhu to extend the invitation.

The Indian cabinet announced that India will be building the corridor till the international border on Thursday and urged Islamabad to build it soon. Citing the fall of the Berlin wall, PM Modi also backed the building of the corridor and said, "Kisne socha that ki Berlin ki deewar gir sakti hai, shayad Guru Nanak Dev Ji ke aashirwad se, Kartarpur ka corridor sirf corridor nahi, Jan Jan ko jodne ka bahut bada karan ban sakta hai" (Who would have thought that Berlin wall would fall. With the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev ji, Kartarpur corridor will not be just a corridor but will act as a bridge to connect people).

President Ram Nath Kovind along with Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh will be laying the foundation for the corridor on November 26 while Pakistan's PM Imran Khan will be laying the foundation on November 28. It was a long-standing demand of the Sikh community in India and New Delhi had been pursuing it for many years.&nbsp;

The corridor issue was again highlighted during Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu's visit to the swearing-in ceremony of Pak PM Imran Khan in which according to Sidhu, Pakistan army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa told him that the corridor should be open.

In what can be seen as a step forward in India-Pakistan relations, India will be sending two ministers to take part in Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony on November 28, which will be done by Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan.

In what can be seen as a step forward in India-Pakistan relations, India will be sending two ministers to take part in Kartarpur corridor's groundbreaking ceremony on November 28, which will be done by Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. India will be represented by Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing & Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri. In a tweet, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "We welcome this proposal and we are sending two Ministers to represent Government of India" Please do not spread disinformation. We welcome this proposal and we are sending two Ministers to represent Government of India. https://t.co/Xiciu74ljy — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) November 24, 2018 × She also hoped that the Government of Pakistan will "expedite the construction of the corridor" in order to ensure that "our citizens can pay their respects at the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor as soon as possible." This comes after Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, along with Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab tourism minister Navjot Singh Sidhu. Navjot Singh Sidhu has already confirmed that he will be going for the ceremony on November 28. On behalf of Pakistan I have extended an invitation to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj @SushmaSwaraj ,Capt Amarinder Singh @capt_amarinder & Navjot Singh Sidhu @sherryontopp to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at #Kartarpura on 28 Nov, 2018.#PakistanKartarpuraSpirit — Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) November 24, 2018 × Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Senator Faisal Javed Khan telephoned Navjot Singh Sidhu to extend the invitation. The Indian cabinet announced that India will be building the corridor till the international border on Thursday and urged Islamabad to build it soon. Citing the fall of the Berlin wall, PM Modi also backed the building of the corridor and said, "Kisne socha that ki Berlin ki deewar gir sakti hai, shayad Guru Nanak Dev Ji ke aashirwad se, Kartarpur ka corridor sirf corridor nahi, Jan Jan ko jodne ka bahut bada karan ban sakta hai" (Who would have thought that Berlin wall would fall. With the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev ji, Kartarpur corridor will not be just a corridor but will act as a bridge to connect people). President Ram Nath Kovind along with Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh will be laying the foundation for the corridor on November 26 while Pakistan's PM Imran Khan will be laying the foundation on November 28. It was a long-standing demand of the Sikh community in India and New Delhi had been pursuing it for many years. The corridor issue was again highlighted during Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu's visit to the swearing-in ceremony of Pak PM Imran Khan in which according to Sidhu, Pakistan army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa told him that the corridor should be open.

Kartarpur corridor: India to send 2 ministers to breaking ground ceremony in Pakistan

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