Over 470 million women are eligible to cast their vote in the upcoming General Elections in India, nearly half of the total number of eligible voters. And Indian political parties are pulling out all stops to woo women voters with a range of schemes and programmes tailored to their needs. We focus on women and the vote in this Women's Day special report.

Women power in Indian elections

In honor of International Women's Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced a reduction in cooking gas costs of Rs 100 per cylinder. The price cut, which is expected to assist approximately 33 crore households who use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as cooking fuel, occurs just days before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be announced.

Indian elections 2024: PM Modi announces reduction in LPG prices

An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that&nbsp;both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
India diplomatic team, led by MEA's Joint Secretary PAI division, J.P. Singhmeets Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. As always, quite telling picture, with the presence of women diplomat (<a href="https://twitter.com/deepti_jharwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@deepti_jharwal</a>) on the Indian side. <a href="https://t.co/4cDuy2NyJs">pic.twitter.com/4cDuy2NyJs</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1765773305548542147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

JP Singh, the joint secretary who heads the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran in India's External Affairs Ministry met Muttaqi on Thursday (March 7).&nbsp;

India does not formally recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul. India's External Affairs Ministry has given no official word on the meeting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/unexpected-snowfall-takes-several-lives-in-pakistan-afghanistan-northwest-indian-shivers-in-march-697135">Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March</a>

After the Taliban replaced the US-backed and democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in August 2021 following the complete withdrawal of the Western forces, the Indian embassy in Kabul closed. In June 2022, India sent a "technical team" of officials to be based in Kabul and reopened its Embassy.

India also sent its first consignment of earthquake relief assistance to Afghanistan, where more than 1,000 Afghans were killed in an earthquake outside the city of Khost.&nbsp;

Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Indian diplomats have met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan and at neutral venues such as the Qatari capital Doha.

Also watch |&nbsp;American lies: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan | WION Game Plan

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/american-lies-us-blames-india-for-its-failure-in-afghanistan-wion-game-plan-576235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Taliban spokesperson claimed Muttaqi and Singh discussed Afghanistan-India relations, economic and transit matters, fighting the Islamic State (Khorasan), and tackling corruption.

Muttaqi said that India's humanitarian assistance is in line with the Taliban's "balanced foreign policy", and added that Kabul "seeks to strengthen political [and] economic relations with India as an important actor in the region".

Muttaqi also asked India's representative to facilitate the issuance of visas to Afghan businessmen, medical patients, and students.

The Taliban spokesperson quoted JP Singh as saying that New Delhi is interested in expanding political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan and enhancing trade via Iran’s Chabahar port.

While India's Union Budget this year included an allocation of ₹200 crore for Afghanistan for 2024-25, New Delhi is reportedly concerned about the diversion of funds and the absence of any mechanism to monitor the use of the aid.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group.

An Indian senior diplomat met Afghanistan's Taliban government's 'foreign minister' Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. The Taliban claimed in a statement that both sides discussed ties between the two nations in terms of economic cooperation, connectivity, and the jihadist threat posed to Afghanistan by the Islamic State (Khorasan) group. India diplomatic team, led by MEA's Joint Secretary PAI division, J.P. Singhmeets Taliban's foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Kabul. As always, quite telling picture, with the presence of women diplomat (@deepti_jharwal) on the Indian side. pic.twitter.com/4cDuy2NyJs — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 7, 2024 × JP Singh, the joint secretary who heads the division for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran in India's External Affairs Ministry met Muttaqi on Thursday (March 7). India does not formally recognise the Taliban regime in Kabul. India's External Affairs Ministry has given no official word on the meeting. Also read | Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March After the Taliban replaced the US-backed and democratically-elected Ashraf Ghani government in August 2021 following the complete withdrawal of the Western forces, the Indian embassy in Kabul closed. In June 2022, India sent a "technical team" of officials to be based in Kabul and reopened its Embassy. India also sent its first consignment of earthquake relief assistance to Afghanistan, where more than 1,000 Afghans were killed in an earthquake outside the city of Khost. Since the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, Indian diplomats have met Taliban leaders in Afghanistan and at neutral venues such as the Qatari capital Doha. Also watch | American lies: US blames India for its failure in Afghanistan | WION Game Plan × Taliban spokesperson claimed Muttaqi and Singh discussed Afghanistan-India relations, economic and transit matters, fighting the Islamic State (Khorasan), and tackling corruption. Muttaqi said that India's humanitarian assistance is in line with the Taliban's "balanced foreign policy", and added that Kabul "seeks to strengthen political [and] economic relations with India as an important actor in the region". Muttaqi also asked India's representative to facilitate the issuance of visas to Afghan businessmen, medical patients, and students. The Taliban spokesperson quoted JP Singh as saying that New Delhi is interested in expanding political and economic cooperation with Afghanistan and enhancing trade via Iran’s Chabahar port. While India's Union Budget this year included an allocation of ₹200 crore for Afghanistan for 2024-25, New Delhi is reportedly concerned about the diversion of funds and the absence of any mechanism to monitor the use of the aid. (With inputs from agencies)

India's senior diplomat meets Taliban representative in Kabul

Customs officials in Thailand arrested six Indian nationals at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport who were allegedly trying to smuggle 87 wild animals, including a red panda and cotton-top tamarin monkey, out of the country.

The suspects, bound for Mumbai, were intercepted with a variety of animals concealed in their checked luggage.&nbsp;

The inventory included 29 black throat monitor lizards, 21 snakes, and 15 birds, among which were parrots. The animals were meticulously hidden inside the luggage, the Customs Department claimed in a statement on Wednesday (March 6).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysia-seizes-illicit-animal-parts-worth-18-million-in-one-of-the-biggest-raids-of-all-time-498773">Malaysia seizes illicit animal parts worth $18 million in one of the biggest raids of all time</a>

Thailand, a major hub for illegal wildlife smuggling, has been a hotspot for the multi-billion-dollar illegal transnational trade due to its rich biodiversity, strategic location, and robust connectivity.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-rare-stunning-electric-blue-coloured-tarantula-species-in-thailands-lush-jungles-640279">Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue-coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles</a>

While the country has often served as a transit point for animals destined for China and Vietnam, recent years have seen a surge in trafficking to India.

<h2>Indians arrested for alleged animal trafficking: Which animals were confiscated?</h2>

The confiscated animals ranged from a red panda, an endangered species with a bear-like body, peering out of a wicker basket to a critically endangered cotton-top tamarin monkey in a plastic box.&nbsp;

A Sulawesi bear cuscus, classified as vulnerable, was found taped inside a basket. Snakes and lizards were cleverly concealed in cloth bags and plastic food tubs.

If proven guilty, the six suspects could face a maximum of 10 years in jail or a fine equivalent to four times the import duties.

Also watch |&nbsp;Thailand wildlife bust: Pangolin scale seizure worth $1.4 million

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-wildlife-bust-pangolin-scale-seizure-worth-14-million-626595/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The incident follows a similar case in February, when a Mongolian man was arrested at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport for attempting to smuggle Komodo dragons, pythons, and two dozen live fish out of Thailand.

The international non-governmental animal conservation organisation TRAFFIC, which focuses on combating illegal wildlife trade, had previously issued warnings about wildlife smuggling incidents between key airports in Malaysia, Thailand, and India.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Customs officials in Thailand arrested six Indian nationals at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport who were allegedly trying to smuggle 87 wild animals, including a red panda and cotton-top tamarin monkey, out of the country.

Customs officials in Thailand arrested six Indian nationals at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport who were allegedly trying to smuggle 87 wild animals, including a red panda and cotton-top tamarin monkey, out of the country. The suspects, bound for Mumbai, were intercepted with a variety of animals concealed in their checked luggage. The inventory included 29 black throat monitor lizards, 21 snakes, and 15 birds, among which were parrots. The animals were meticulously hidden inside the luggage, the Customs Department claimed in a statement on Wednesday (March 6). Also read | Malaysia seizes illicit animal parts worth $18 million in one of the biggest raids of all time Thailand, a major hub for illegal wildlife smuggling, has been a hotspot for the multi-billion-dollar illegal transnational trade due to its rich biodiversity, strategic location, and robust connectivity. Also read | Scientists discover rare, stunning electric blue-coloured Tarantula species in Thailand's lush jungles While the country has often served as a transit point for animals destined for China and Vietnam, recent years have seen a surge in trafficking to India. Indians arrested for alleged animal trafficking: Which animals were confiscated? The confiscated animals ranged from a red panda, an endangered species with a bear-like body, peering out of a wicker basket to a critically endangered cotton-top tamarin monkey in a plastic box. A Sulawesi bear cuscus, classified as vulnerable, was found taped inside a basket. Snakes and lizards were cleverly concealed in cloth bags and plastic food tubs. If proven guilty, the six suspects could face a maximum of 10 years in jail or a fine equivalent to four times the import duties. Also watch | Thailand wildlife bust: Pangolin scale seizure worth $1.4 million × The incident follows a similar case in February, when a Mongolian man was arrested at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport for attempting to smuggle Komodo dragons, pythons, and two dozen live fish out of Thailand. The international non-governmental animal conservation organisation TRAFFIC, which focuses on combating illegal wildlife trade, had previously issued warnings about wildlife smuggling incidents between key airports in Malaysia, Thailand, and India. (With inputs from agencies)

Six Indians in Bangkok arrested for allegedly trafficking Red Panda, 86 other wild animals

International Women's Day Special: WION tells you about women who have proven to be pillars in India's architectural prowess these brilliant architects who are Visionaries in building India's future. WION's Nikita Singh brings you this special segment on Women's day 2024. Watch to know more!

International Women's Day 2024: Honouring trailblazing women architects

Panama, the tiny Latin American nation of over four million people, conjures up visuals of the namesake canal, which contributed $3.3 billion to the government's coffers in 2023.&nbsp;

But the country's Foreign Minister, Janaina Tewaney Mencomo, wants the world to envision Panama in a different light. "Panama is not just the canal. It is connectivity. It is a route. It is a bridge linking Latin America and the world," she said.

<img alt="Panam on the map" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="baeffd6b-dea5-464f-9f5e-8a15678fdab5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202024-03-08%20at%2014.52.20.jpeg" />&nbsp;

Speaking at a recent event in New Delhi, Mencomo, who is of Indian descent, defined Panama in the following manner: "Panama is historically South America, culturally Carribean, and geographically Central America."

Batting for greater India-Panama ties, Mencomo stated that the world's fifth-largest economy is at the centre of Panama's foreign policy. "India is an emerging power and important to Panama," she said.

But she also said that the South Asian country needs to engage more politically with Latin America. "Latin Americans love India. That's a big asset for India," she argued.

In an exclusive interaction with wionews.com, Mencomo spoke about Panama's focus on becoming a connectivity hub, the water shortage affecting the canal, and growing India-Panama relations

Edited Excerpts:

What is your country's long-term plans to mitigate the ongoing water crisis and support global free trade?

The drought affecting the Panama Canal is the latest episode of a sort of collective “aha!” moment. We’re in the middle of a re-conceptualisation of our country, one that has historic, demographic, and strategic dimensions. It is what I have called our “Panama 3.0” era.

The Canal was designed and built in a very different world, more than 100 years ago. Its current operating model, built upon the use of freshwater, is increasingly at odds not only with the realities of climate change but also with a world in which freshwater is already more valuable than gold. So, Panama needs to consider and implement bold, creative ambitious solutions. Solutions that, ideally, go beyond depending on rainfall.

Panama administers a major maritime chokepoint, so it needs to coordinate with other chokepoint countries, like Egypt or Singapore, to guarantee world commerce and open supply lines. It also runs a major freshwater waterway, so it needs to assume a leading role in the management of water disruptions in canals, and lake and river routes.

Panama, uniquely, is the bridge connecting the Americas, so it must learn from countries like Kazakhstan and become a seamless connectivity and transit hub between North, Central, South America and the Caribbean.

Panama is India's largest trade partner in Central America. What's your five-year outlook on bilateral trade?

Bilateral trade between our two countries reached an all-time high of $582 million in 2022, but I would like to focus more on the long term. Panama will continue to be an important trade and investment partner for India in the Central American region, as a gateway for Indian companies that want to trade and do business with the Americas. This is only the beginning. We can expect more economic integration between India and Panama in the future as more Indian companies discover the advantages of doing business with one of the most financially stable economies in the Americas. We may also see more Panamanian companies doing business with India, which is soon becoming one of the largest consumer markets in the world.

India and Panama, both aim to be a major pharma hub. How can both countries collaborate in the pharma sector?

Despite these mutual aspirations, India and Panama have no conflicting interests in the pharma sector. Panama is looking to become a regional hub for international pharma companies, including from India, to set up base in Panama and export to the larger Americas region. Given Panama's free trade agreements with large economies like the United States, this is an interesting proposition for Indian companies that are looking for a safe, reliable nearshoring hub close to their primary export market. After all, nearly one-third of India's total pharma exports are sent to the United States. Already, half a dozen Indian pharma companies already have operations in Panama, and three of them use Panama as their sub-regional headquarters for the Central American region.

How can Panama help India in growing its economic footprint across the world?

India's foreign policy, centered on non-alignment for most of its independent history, has placed the country in the envious position of being a friend to most of the world. India enjoys close relations with Israel and Iran, with Russia and the United States. Yet, India has only recently begun making inroads into the Latin America region. Panama is home to the largest Indian diaspora in Spanish-speaking Latin America. As the gateway to Latin America, Panama can help India position itself in Central America and the wider Latin American region. One example of this is when Panama hosted the India-SICA Ministerial Meeting in April 2023.

Panama, the tiny Latin American nation of over four million people, conjures up visuals of the namesake canal, which contributed $3.3 billion to the government's coffers in 2023.

Panama, the tiny Latin American nation of over four million people, conjures up visuals of the namesake canal, which contributed $3.3 billion to the government's coffers in 2023. But the country's Foreign Minister, Janaina Tewaney Mencomo, wants the world to envision Panama in a different light. "Panama is not just the canal. It is connectivity. It is a route. It is a bridge linking Latin America and the world," she said. Speaking at a recent event in New Delhi, Mencomo, who is of Indian descent, defined Panama in the following manner: "Panama is historically South America, culturally Carribean, and geographically Central America." Batting for greater India-Panama ties, Mencomo stated that the world's fifth-largest economy is at the centre of Panama's foreign policy. "India is an emerging power and important to Panama," she said. But she also said that the South Asian country needs to engage more politically with Latin America. "Latin Americans love India. That's a big asset for India," she argued. In an exclusive interaction with wionews.com, Mencomo spoke about Panama's focus on becoming a connectivity hub, the water shortage affecting the canal, and growing India-Panama relations Edited Excerpts: What is your country's long-term plans to mitigate the ongoing water crisis and support global free trade? The drought affecting the Panama Canal is the latest episode of a sort of collective “aha!” moment. We’re in the middle of a re-conceptualisation of our country, one that has historic, demographic, and strategic dimensions. It is what I have called our “Panama 3.0” era. The Canal was designed and built in a very different world, more than 100 years ago. Its current operating model, built upon the use of freshwater, is increasingly at odds not only with the realities of climate change but also with a world in which freshwater is already more valuable than gold. So, Panama needs to consider and implement bold, creative ambitious solutions. Solutions that, ideally, go beyond depending on rainfall. Panama administers a major maritime chokepoint, so it needs to coordinate with other chokepoint countries, like Egypt or Singapore, to guarantee world commerce and open supply lines. It also runs a major freshwater waterway, so it needs to assume a leading role in the management of water disruptions in canals, and lake and river routes. Panama, uniquely, is the bridge connecting the Americas, so it must learn from countries like Kazakhstan and become a seamless connectivity and transit hub between North, Central, South America and the Caribbean. Panama is India's largest trade partner in Central America. What's your five-year outlook on bilateral trade? Bilateral trade between our two countries reached an all-time high of $582 million in 2022, but I would like to focus more on the long term. Panama will continue to be an important trade and investment partner for India in the Central American region, as a gateway for Indian companies that want to trade and do business with the Americas. This is only the beginning. We can expect more economic integration between India and Panama in the future as more Indian companies discover the advantages of doing business with one of the most financially stable economies in the Americas. We may also see more Panamanian companies doing business with India, which is soon becoming one of the largest consumer markets in the world. India and Panama, both aim to be a major pharma hub. How can both countries collaborate in the pharma sector? Despite these mutual aspirations, India and Panama have no conflicting interests in the pharma sector. Panama is looking to become a regional hub for international pharma companies, including from India, to set up base in Panama and export to the larger Americas region. Given Panama's free trade agreements with large economies like the United States, this is an interesting proposition for Indian companies that are looking for a safe, reliable nearshoring hub close to their primary export market. After all, nearly one-third of India's total pharma exports are sent to the United States. Already, half a dozen Indian pharma companies already have operations in Panama, and three of them use Panama as their sub-regional headquarters for the Central American region. How can Panama help India in growing its economic footprint across the world? India's foreign policy, centered on non-alignment for most of its independent history, has placed the country in the envious position of being a friend to most of the world. India enjoys close relations with Israel and Iran, with Russia and the United States. Yet, India has only recently begun making inroads into the Latin America region. Panama is home to the largest Indian diaspora in Spanish-speaking Latin America. As the gateway to Latin America, Panama can help India position itself in Central America and the wider Latin American region. One example of this is when Panama hosted the India-SICA Ministerial Meeting in April 2023.

WION Exclusive | Panama's Foreign Minister on drought affecting the canal and growing ties with India

US President Joe Biden delivered his annual State of the Union address to US Congress. Biden started his State of the Union Address with a focus on defending democracy economic recovery and Reproductive Rights but before any of this was brought up he attacked Russian President Putin for the Ukraine war. Biden warned Putin that he will not back down. Biden said that the US is standing up against China's unfair economic practice, standing up for peace and stability across the Taiwan state and revitalizing its partnership with allies like India. Watch to know more!

Biden says US to revitalise partnership with allies like India | US State of Union Address

India's Home Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah held talks with Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday (March 7) and discussed the chances of an alliance between the regional party and BJP for the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The two elections are slated to be held simultaneously in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Telugu Desam Party President N Chandrababu Naidu met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda in Delhi (07/03) <a href="https://t.co/C3LWe3sNjo">pic.twitter.com/C3LWe3sNjo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1765861321147404370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The TDP was earlier a part of the National Democratic Alliance, headed by the ruling Bhartiya Janta Party. However, it exited in 2018 when Naidu was the chief minister of the state.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-to-contest-lok-sabha-polls-from-amethi-up-congress-leader-confirms-697201">Lok Sabha polls: Rahul Gandhi to contest from Amethi and Wayanad, Priyanka to debut from Rae Bareli</a>

BJP President JP Nadda also participated in the deliberations, as per some media reports which further hinted that the two parties are open to an alliance. However, the final decision depends on whether they are able to successfully finalise an agreeable seat-sharing arrangement.

However, the scope of an alliance has increased in the wake of a second meeting between the two leaders.

<h2>TDP leaders push for alliance with BJP&nbsp;</h2>

TDP leaders said that any further delay in the formation of an alliance would not be beneficial as the elections are just months away, and any kind of ambiguity will only confuse party workers and supporters.

Another Jana Sena Party, led by actor Pawan Kalyan, is a member of the NDA and has joined hands with the TDP already. The party is now appealing BJP to follow similar steps.

Kalyan also participated in the meeting with Amit Shah. Naidu earlier held talks with leaders, which included MPs of the TDP.

Watch:&nbsp;India Elections 2024: War of words from Modi to Mamata on Sandeshkhali

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-war-of-words-from-modi-to-mamata-on-sandeshkhali-697750/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The talks of the alliance are taking place amid reports that the BJP and the Biju Janata Dal, which is in power in the Indian state of Odisha, are in the final stage of entering an alliance.&nbsp;

The reports emerged as the senior leaders of the two parties held separate meetings on Wednesday (Mar 6) and gave hints of such a possibility.

In February, Naidu held talks with Shah and BJP President JP Nadda which ignited speculations regarding them entering an alliance.&nbsp;

According to the reports, the parties have been differing over the number of seats on which the BJP will fight in the state.

There are 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state and the BJP is willing to contest eight to 10 parliamentary constituencies.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Home Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah held talks with Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday (March 7) and discussed the chances of an alliance between the regional party and BJP for the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections.

India's Home Minister and BJP leader Amit Shah held talks with Telugu Desam Party president N Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday (March 7) and discussed the chances of an alliance between the regional party and BJP for the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections. The two elections are slated to be held simultaneously in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Telugu Desam Party President N Chandrababu Naidu met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda in Delhi (07/03) pic.twitter.com/C3LWe3sNjo — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2024 × The TDP was earlier a part of the National Democratic Alliance, headed by the ruling Bhartiya Janta Party. However, it exited in 2018 when Naidu was the chief minister of the state. Also Read: Lok Sabha polls: Rahul Gandhi to contest from Amethi and Wayanad, Priyanka to debut from Rae Bareli BJP President JP Nadda also participated in the deliberations, as per some media reports which further hinted that the two parties are open to an alliance. However, the final decision depends on whether they are able to successfully finalise an agreeable seat-sharing arrangement. However, the scope of an alliance has increased in the wake of a second meeting between the two leaders. TDP leaders push for alliance with BJP TDP leaders said that any further delay in the formation of an alliance would not be beneficial as the elections are just months away, and any kind of ambiguity will only confuse party workers and supporters. Another Jana Sena Party, led by actor Pawan Kalyan, is a member of the NDA and has joined hands with the TDP already. The party is now appealing BJP to follow similar steps. Kalyan also participated in the meeting with Amit Shah. Naidu earlier held talks with leaders, which included MPs of the TDP. Watch: India Elections 2024: War of words from Modi to Mamata on Sandeshkhali The talks of the alliance are taking place amid reports that the BJP and the Biju Janata Dal, which is in power in the Indian state of Odisha, are in the final stage of entering an alliance. The reports emerged as the senior leaders of the two parties held separate meetings on Wednesday (Mar 6) and gave hints of such a possibility. In February, Naidu held talks with Shah and BJP President JP Nadda which ignited speculations regarding them entering an alliance. According to the reports, the parties have been differing over the number of seats on which the BJP will fight in the state. There are 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha seats in the state and the BJP is willing to contest eight to 10 parliamentary constituencies. (With inputs from agencies)

India elections: BJP's Amit Shah meets TDP's Chandrababu Naidu, discuss possibility of alliance

Today its Mahashivratri, on this Festival devotes offer their prayers to Lord shiva. Prayers are being observed at temples across India. Watch to know more!

Mahashivratri Festival 2024: Devotees offer prayer to Lord Shiva in temples across India

India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) busted a people trafficking network on Thursday which was allegedly sending young people to the Russia-Ukraine war zone under the guise of lucrative jobs. Watch to know more!

India: CBI busts Human Trafficking racket taking Indians to Russia-Ukraine conflict zone

In a move towards strengthening economic integration, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Bank Indonesia (BI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday, to establish a framework promoting the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions.

As per a press release by the Indian Embassy in Jakarta, the MoU, inked during the visit of a high-level delegation from BI to Mumbai, aims to enhance business ties between India and Indonesia by facilitating transactions in Indian Rupees (INR) and Indonesian Rupiahs (IDR).

The framework, the second of its kind for India with a foreign country after the UAE, encourages the use of INR and IDR in current account transactions, permissible capital account transactions, and other economic and financial dealings as agreed upon by both nations.

With bilateral trade between India and Indonesia reaching USD 40 billion in 2022, the MoU is expected to streamline trade processes, reduce settlement time and costs, and minimise foreign exchange volatility for exporters and importers.

The MoU lays the groundwork for more profound financial market integration, including opening the door for future payment system linkages.

This closer cooperation is set to benefit professionals working in each other's countries, fostering an environment conducive to financial growth.

Additionally, it holds promise for about half a million Indian tourists who visit Indonesia annually.

In a move towards strengthening economic integration, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Bank Indonesia (BI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday, to establish a framework promoting the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions.

In a move towards strengthening economic integration, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Bank Indonesia (BI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday, to establish a framework promoting the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions. As per a press release by the Indian Embassy in Jakarta, the MoU, inked during the visit of a high-level delegation from BI to Mumbai, aims to enhance business ties between India and Indonesia by facilitating transactions in Indian Rupees (INR) and Indonesian Rupiahs (IDR). The framework, the second of its kind for India with a foreign country after the UAE, encourages the use of INR and IDR in current account transactions, permissible capital account transactions, and other economic and financial dealings as agreed upon by both nations. With bilateral trade between India and Indonesia reaching USD 40 billion in 2022, the MoU is expected to streamline trade processes, reduce settlement time and costs, and minimise foreign exchange volatility for exporters and importers. The MoU lays the groundwork for more profound financial market integration, including opening the door for future payment system linkages. This closer cooperation is set to benefit professionals working in each other's countries, fostering an environment conducive to financial growth. Additionally, it holds promise for about half a million Indian tourists who visit Indonesia annually.

RBI and Bank Indonesia ink pact to boost bilateral trade using local currencies

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a significant rally in Srinagar on March 7, marking his first visit since the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

PM Modi Kashmir Visit: Indian PM Narendra Modi to unveil infrastructure projects in Srinagar

India: PM Modi to unveil infrastructure projects, address rally ahead of elections

A Google employee was charged Tuesday with stealing artificial intelligence trade secrets from the tech giant while secretly working with two Chinese-based companies in the AI industry. Linwei Ding, who also goes by Leon Ding, is charged with four counts of theft of trade secrets.

Google employee charged with stealing AI trade secrets

The Reserve Bank of India governor, Shaktikanta Das, raised India's economic growth forecast for 2024, citing strong performances in manufacturing, construction, and rural demand. He expects the economy to grow close to 8% this year, exceeding previous estimates.

RBI Governor buoyant on India's growth

Welfare schemes and freebies are an integral part of India's polity. The line between what constitutes a freebie and a welfare scheme is a hazy one. But they have a huge impact on the political economy of India. We decode more on Pollnomics today.

India's race to power: Decoding India's political economy

Assam gears up for PM Modi's two-day visit, includes inauguration of infrastructure and heritage projects totaling Rs 18,000 crore. Watch in for more updates on India's Lok Sabha Election 2024.

India Election 2024: Assam gears up for PM Modi's visit

Indian Navy rescued the crew members of a Barbados-flagged ship that came under the attack of a Houthi missile. The ship caught fire in the Gulf of Aden, three of its crew members died, and the rest were forced to abandon the ship and take refuge in life rafts. Indian Navy's INS Kolkata reached the scene and rescued 21 crew members, including one Indian national.

Gravitas | Red Sea War: Indian Navy's daring operation saves sailors of missile-hit ship

The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra is entering the western state of Gujarat. The flagship Congress campaign March is now in its final leg the state of Gujarat that has been a stronghold of the Bharatiya Janata Party for decades now.

Aam Aadmi Party to join Rahul's Nyay Yatra in Gujarat

Wednesday Prime Minister Narendra Modi fired bobs at the Trinamool Congress over the raging Sandeshkhali issue. He warns that the storm of Sandeshkhali will reach every part of West Bengal. A day later Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hit back as she led a rally of women supporters in Kolkata today.

India Elections 2024: War of words from Modi to Mamata on Sandeshkhali

In India's race to power, the 'storm of Sandeshkhali' is sweeping the battleground of West Bengal. Sandeshkhali is where the ruling TMC party is facing political heat with party leaders accused of rape, exploitation and loot. After Prime Minister Modi's addressed a public rally in Barasat on Wednesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee called for a huge rally in Kolkata on 10th March.

BJP leaders detained on way to Sandeshkhali, CM Mamata Banerjee calls for huge rally

Special Investigation Team (SIT) finds 13,000 illegal madrasas across Uttar Pradesh. The SIT in its report mentioned, that around 13,000 unauthorised madrasas were functioning. The U.P. government has ordered their closure.

U.P: Special investigation team finds thousands of illegal madrasas

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a significant rally in Srinagar on March 7, marking his first visit since the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

Indian elections 2024 | Modi in Kashmir: Jammu & Kashmir after abrogation of Article 370

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- Customs officials in Thailand arrested six Indian nationals at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport who were allegedly trying to smuggle 87 wild animals, including a red panda and cotton-top tamarin monkey, out of the country.

6 Indians arrested in Bangkok for allegedly trafficking Red Panda

india

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news