Conservative Party leader, Pierre Poilievre, on Wednesday said that PM Justin Trudeau needs to provide all the facts on his allegations connecting Indian government agents with the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India tells citizens to exercise caution as ties with Canada worsens

As per a senior Canadian government source, Canada worked "very closely" with the U.S. on Nijjar case. "We've been working with the U.S. very closely, including on the public disclosure yesterday," the source said. Watch this video for all details.

What's the role of US in Canada investigating India's possible link to Nijjar's killing?

The Union Cabinet on Monday cleared the women's reservation bill in a key meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announced Union Minister Prahlad Patel.

Women's reservation quota bill tabled: Implementation unlikely till 2029

Women's Reservation Bill has been tabled in the Lower House of the Parliament. It will now be deliberated on by the members of parliament. What does the bill actually propose? Will it finally be passed? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Historic bill for Indian women in politics | Explained

India's Congress party has raised&nbsp;concerns about the omission of the words "socialist" and "secular" from the new copies of the Indian Constitution distributed to Members of Parliament in the new Parliament building.

Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a prominent Congress leader and the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, pointed out that the Preamble of the new Constitution copies lacked the two words which were incorporated into the Constitution through the 42nd Amendment in 1976 during the Emergency imposed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

These words were added by the Congress regime at the time apparently to guarantee&nbsp;the protection of minority rights and to prevent economic dominance by the wealthy.

Chowdhury insinuated that the absence of "socialist" and "secular" from the copies may be a deliberate act.

However, he lamented that he had not been given the opportunity to address this issue in Parliament.

To counter this allegation, Arjun Ram Meghwal, the minister of law and justice from the ruling BJP said, "when the Constitution was drafted, it was like this. An amendment was made later."

"This is the original copy. Our spokesperson has replied to the same," he&nbsp;told reporters outside the new parliament building.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | MoS Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal says, "...When the Constitution was drafted, it was like this. An amendment was made later. This is the original copy. Our spokesperson has replied to the same." <a href="https://t.co/a9xEzFlXoG">https://t.co/a9xEzFlXoG</a> <a href="https://t.co/EoZVaoxlWX">pic.twitter.com/EoZVaoxlWX</a>
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Watch Sonia Gandhi's (former INC president) comments here:&nbsp;

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CPP Chairperson Smt Sonia Gandhi ji raises a crucial issue. 
 
English copies of the Constitution given by the govt yesterday had two key words missing from the preamble 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐑 and 𝐒𝐎𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 
 
These were added to the preamble by the 42nd Amendment, 1976 - one of… <a href="https://t.co/F8yOopmenf">pic.twitter.com/F8yOopmenf</a>
— Supriya Shrinate (@SupriyaShrinate) <a href="https://twitter.com/SupriyaShrinate/status/1704372582949216583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Historical context</h2>

The ideal of secularism was deeply cherished by India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, and the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, BR&nbsp;Ambedkar.

However, when it came to including "secular" in the preamble, both leaders were cautious.

Ambedkar believed that the specifics of state policy and societal organisation should be determined by the people themselves, not enshrined in the Constitution.

Nehru acknowledged that communalism existed in the hearts and minds of individuals and should be fought&nbsp;against.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-other-allies-refused-to-join-canada-in-condemning-india-over-hardeep-singh-nijjars-death-report-637744">US, other allies refused to join Canada in condemning India over Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s death: Report</a>

Although the term "secularism" was not explicitly inserted into the Constitution, its principles were woven into India's constitutional philosophy.

Articles 25, 26 and 27 guarantee religious freedom and equality before the law for all citizens, laying the foundation for a secular state.

During the Emergency in 1975, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi introduced a 20-page document that granted unprecedented powers to the Parliament, resulting in significant changes to the Constitution, including in the Preamble.

India's description shifted from a "sovereign, democratic republic" to a "sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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India's Congress party has raised concerns about the omission of the words "socialist" and "secular" from the new copies of the Indian Constitution distributed to Members of Parliament in the new Parliament building.

India's Congress party has raised concerns about the omission of the words "socialist" and "secular" from the new copies of the Indian Constitution distributed to Members of Parliament in the new Parliament building. Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, a prominent Congress leader and the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, pointed out that the Preamble of the new Constitution copies lacked the two words which were incorporated into the Constitution through the 42nd Amendment in 1976 during the Emergency imposed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. These words were added by the Congress regime at the time apparently to guarantee the protection of minority rights and to prevent economic dominance by the wealthy. Chowdhury insinuated that the absence of "socialist" and "secular" from the copies may be a deliberate act. However, he lamented that he had not been given the opportunity to address this issue in Parliament. To counter this allegation, Arjun Ram Meghwal, the minister of law and justice from the ruling BJP said, "when the Constitution was drafted, it was like this. An amendment was made later." "This is the original copy. Our spokesperson has replied to the same," he told reporters outside the new parliament building. #WATCH | MoS Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal says, "...When the Constitution was drafted, it was like this. An amendment was made later. This is the original copy. Our spokesperson has replied to the same." https://t.co/a9xEzFlXoG pic.twitter.com/EoZVaoxlWX — ANI (@ANI) September 20, 2023 × Watch Sonia Gandhi's (former INC president) comments here: CPP Chairperson Smt Sonia Gandhi ji raises a crucial issue. English copies of the Constitution given by the govt yesterday had two key words missing from the preamble 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐑 and 𝐒𝐎𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 These were added to the preamble by the 42nd Amendment, 1976 - one of… pic.twitter.com/F8yOopmenf — Supriya Shrinate (@SupriyaShrinate) September 20, 2023 × Historical context The ideal of secularism was deeply cherished by India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, and the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, BR Ambedkar. However, when it came to including "secular" in the preamble, both leaders were cautious. Ambedkar believed that the specifics of state policy and societal organisation should be determined by the people themselves, not enshrined in the Constitution. Nehru acknowledged that communalism existed in the hearts and minds of individuals and should be fought against. Also read | US, other allies refused to join Canada in condemning India over Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s death: Report Although the term "secularism" was not explicitly inserted into the Constitution, its principles were woven into India's constitutional philosophy. Articles 25, 26 and 27 guarantee religious freedom and equality before the law for all citizens, laying the foundation for a secular state. During the Emergency in 1975, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi introduced a 20-page document that granted unprecedented powers to the Parliament, resulting in significant changes to the Constitution, including in the Preamble. India's description shifted from a "sovereign, democratic republic" to a "sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Congress claims 'socialist and secular' missing from new Constitution copies, BJP responds

With tensions between India and Canada rising PM Justin Trudeau has found himself at the center of another controversy. Here are five of the biggest controversies in his career thus far.

5 biggest controversies in Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's career

While the number of Indian students pursuing international education has been on the rise, it appears that their journey is far from the glamorous image often portrayed on social media.

Indians studying abroad: The unfiltered truth

The Indian cabinet has reportedly approved the women's reservation bill. The bill is expected to bring the number of women to a critical level that will allow them to make a real difference in political decisions in the country.

Indian cabinet likely clears women's quota bill

India summoned Canadian envoy Cameron MacKay on Tuesday to inform him of the government's decision to remove a "senior Canadian diplomat" in response to Ottawa's expulsion of an Indian official for the execution of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Nijjar killing: India rejects Canada's allegations, expels senior Canadian diplomat

India's new Parliament building in New Delhi was unveiled in May this year and today the first Parliament sitting will be held in the new building. A special session of the parliament is currently underway the special session was announced by the the ruling government last month without disclosing much detail on the agenda.

India | Special Parliament Session: 8 bills listed by Indian government

Indian Parliament Special Session: New Parliament building to hold its first session

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- Australia man fined $1,500 for taking pet snake surfing, 150 million-year-old rare dinosaur to be auctioned in Europe, India: Women's Reservation Bill cleared in cabinet, no formal announcement yet.

Australia man fined $1,500 for taking pet snake surfing

India's growth potential, coupled with its relatively lower exposure to geopolitical risks, is positioning it as a rising star in global financial markets while China grapples with challenges that have led to a retreat of foreign funds.

India benefits from investor exodus in China

On Monday, Canada said that it was actively pursuing credible allegations linking the Indian government agents to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia in June.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar killing: India rejects Canadian allegations

Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar have been included in India's squad for the Australia ODI series. Both of them are not a part of India's squad for the ODI World Cup but changes can be made to the squad till September 28.

India announce squad for Australia ODI series | World DNA

On Monday, Canada said that it was actively pursuing credible allegations linking the Indian government agents to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in British Columbia in June. Meanwhile, Canada has expelled the senior Indian diplomat as it investigates the killing of Nijjar.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar killing: Canada PM Trudeau says, 'Credible allegations of India's involvement'

S&amp;P Global Market Intelligence announced on Monday that India’s growth prediction for FY24 was raised upward to 6.6 per cent on the strength of strong growth in the April-June quarter, according to a report by The Economic Times.

This represents a significant change from the 5.9 per cent growth the analytics company predicted in August. However, compared to 5.1 per cent in August, the inflation rate was forecast to grow sharply to 6 per cent in 2023, touching the upper band goal range set by the RBI.

The Economic Times quoted Rajiv Biswas, APAC Chief Economist at S&amp;P Global Market Intelligence as saying, “India's economic growth momentum was buoyant in the April-June quarter, growing at a pace of 7.8 per cent year-on-year, supported by robust growth in domestic demand.”

S&amp;P is less pessimistic about inflation but in contrast is more positive than the Reserve Bank of India, which expects the economy to grow by 6.5 per cent this fiscal year.

Biswas noted a risk to the prognosis from the recent recovery in global oil prices, noting that there is still a chance of a major El Nino weather event forming in late 2023 and into 2024, which may cause drought conditions and raise prices for important agricultural commodities.

S&amp;P highlighted that due to concerns about global economic development, India's economy is likely to increase at a rate of 6.2 per cent in FY25 as opposed to the 6.1 per cent projected in August. While the company increased its growth projection for 2023 to 2.6 per cent because it was confident about the world's prospects, it decreased its growth forecast for 2024 to 2.3 per cent in its September update.

The paper said that "downside risks include inflation persistence, tighter financial conditions, and escalating geopolitical tensions" and claimed that "the 2024 global growth forecast has been lowered again."

The company noted that while the US is expected to see a marked slowdown with threats to China's growth, the recession in Europe was the baseline scenario for the second half of 2023.

India's exports are anticipated to suffer from slower global growth.

Concerns over inflation

India's inflation rate is anticipated to be high, at 5.3 per cent, in 2024.

The global analytics company raised its worldwide inflation forecast for 2023 and 2024 in response to its prediction of worsening inflation trends across nations.

The Economic Times quoted S&amp;P stating that “the near-term outlook for inflation has deteriorated,” citing increased crude oil prices and a rise in the cost of some industrial non-energy goods.

Given the generally tight labour market circumstances, increased wage and unit labour cost rise, and persistent core inflation rates, particularly for services, the report added.

According to the group, global inflation will reach a high of 5.7 per cent in 2023 and stay over 4 per cent in 2024.

India's inflation somewhat decreased in August from 7.4 per cent to 6.8 per cent, and it is anticipated to continue to reduce as a result of lower tomato prices and a Rs 200 ($2.4) reduction in the cost of LPG cylinders.

High inflation, according to experts, will accelerate the trajectory of rate cuts. At its meeting in early October, the Monetary Policy Committee of the RBI is anticipated to maintain the policy rate at 6.5 per cent.

A similar trajectory for advanced economies may be predicted, according to S&amp;P Global Market Intelligence.

“Central bank rate cuts in advanced economies remain some way off. Our forecast remains that policy rate cuts in advanced economies are unlikely until mid-2024 given the challenging inflationary environment,” The Economic Times quoted S&amp;P as saying.

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S&P Global Market Intelligence announced on Monday that India’s growth prediction for FY24 was raised upward to 6.6 per cent on the strength of strong growth in the April-June quarter, according to a report by The Economic Times.

S&P Global Market Intelligence announced on Monday that India’s growth prediction for FY24 was raised upward to 6.6 per cent on the strength of strong growth in the April-June quarter, according to a report by The Economic Times. This represents a significant change from the 5.9 per cent growth the analytics company predicted in August. However, compared to 5.1 per cent in August, the inflation rate was forecast to grow sharply to 6 per cent in 2023, touching the upper band goal range set by the RBI. The Economic Times quoted Rajiv Biswas, APAC Chief Economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence as saying, “India's economic growth momentum was buoyant in the April-June quarter, growing at a pace of 7.8 per cent year-on-year, supported by robust growth in domestic demand.” S&P is less pessimistic about inflation but in contrast is more positive than the Reserve Bank of India, which expects the economy to grow by 6.5 per cent this fiscal year. Biswas noted a risk to the prognosis from the recent recovery in global oil prices, noting that there is still a chance of a major El Nino weather event forming in late 2023 and into 2024, which may cause drought conditions and raise prices for important agricultural commodities. S&P highlighted that due to concerns about global economic development, India's economy is likely to increase at a rate of 6.2 per cent in FY25 as opposed to the 6.1 per cent projected in August. While the company increased its growth projection for 2023 to 2.6 per cent because it was confident about the world's prospects, it decreased its growth forecast for 2024 to 2.3 per cent in its September update. The paper said that "downside risks include inflation persistence, tighter financial conditions, and escalating geopolitical tensions" and claimed that "the 2024 global growth forecast has been lowered again." The company noted that while the US is expected to see a marked slowdown with threats to China's growth, the recession in Europe was the baseline scenario for the second half of 2023. India's exports are anticipated to suffer from slower global growth. Concerns over inflation India's inflation rate is anticipated to be high, at 5.3 per cent, in 2024. The global analytics company raised its worldwide inflation forecast for 2023 and 2024 in response to its prediction of worsening inflation trends across nations. The Economic Times quoted S&P stating that “the near-term outlook for inflation has deteriorated,” citing increased crude oil prices and a rise in the cost of some industrial non-energy goods. Given the generally tight labour market circumstances, increased wage and unit labour cost rise, and persistent core inflation rates, particularly for services, the report added. According to the group, global inflation will reach a high of 5.7 per cent in 2023 and stay over 4 per cent in 2024. India's inflation somewhat decreased in August from 7.4 per cent to 6.8 per cent, and it is anticipated to continue to reduce as a result of lower tomato prices and a Rs 200 ($2.4) reduction in the cost of LPG cylinders. High inflation, according to experts, will accelerate the trajectory of rate cuts. At its meeting in early October, the Monetary Policy Committee of the RBI is anticipated to maintain the policy rate at 6.5 per cent. A similar trajectory for advanced economies may be predicted, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. “Central bank rate cuts in advanced economies remain some way off. Our forecast remains that policy rate cuts in advanced economies are unlikely until mid-2024 given the challenging inflationary environment,” The Economic Times quoted S&P as saying. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

 S&P Global raises India’s FY24 growth projection to 6.6 pc amid inflation worries

After taking the extreme step of expelling a top Indian diplomat,&nbsp;Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is attempting to clarify his diplomatic tone by saying that Canada is not looking to provoke India in connection with the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.&nbsp;

"Canada is not trying to provoke India by suggesting its agents were linked to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader but Ottawa wants New Delhi to address the issue properly," Reuters quoted him as saying on Tuesday (September 19).

"The government of India needs to take this matter with the utmost seriousness. We are doing that, we are not looking to provoke or escalate," he reportedly said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-vs-india-over-nijjar-death-uk-australia-pms-appear-cold-to-trudeaus-claims-heres-how-637583">Nijjar death: Did UK, Australia PMs dismiss Canada's claims against India?</a>

Trudeau tried to put diplomatic pressure on India by engaging with UK, US, France and its other so-called “close allies”.

He reportedly gave a briefing of the case to these countries. Reactions also started to pour in from different world leaders over the row.

But Trudeau, who is looking for greener diplomatic pastures, failed to secure backing from its “closest allies” because, unsurprisingly, they declined to rebuke New Delhi over the death of the Khalistani terrorist.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese refrained from making any negative statements towards India. "Seriously, you should chill out a bit. You know, we were at a venue where Bruce Springsteen played the last time I was there," he told a reporter who pressed him on the matter.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/banned-separatist-group-sfj-threatens-to-shut-down-indian-consulates-next-week-637580">Banned separatist group SFJ threatens to shut down Indian consulates</a>

"And I made the point that the reception he got from the community... the Indian diaspora welcomed him very strongly, it's as simple as that," he added.&nbsp;

UK PM Rishi Sunak also refrained from engaging in any kind of preaching to India, with his spokesperson saying&nbsp;that his top priority is to secure a trade deal with India.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-canada-row-india-expels-senior-canadian-diplomat-over-anti-india-activities-637612">India-Canada Row: India expels senior Canadian diplomat over anti-India activities</a>

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Earlier, the banned Indian separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) said that it will hold protests and will shut down Indian consulate offices in Canada in the upcoming week, a Canadian media outlet Global News reported.&nbsp;

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After taking the extreme step of expelling a top Indian diplomat, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is attempting to clarify his diplomatic tone by saying that Canada is not looking to provoke India in connection with the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

After taking the extreme step of expelling a top Indian diplomat, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is attempting to clarify his diplomatic tone by saying that Canada is not looking to provoke India in connection with the killing of Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. "Canada is not trying to provoke India by suggesting its agents were linked to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader but Ottawa wants New Delhi to address the issue properly," Reuters quoted him as saying on Tuesday (September 19). "The government of India needs to take this matter with the utmost seriousness. We are doing that, we are not looking to provoke or escalate," he reportedly said. Also Read | Nijjar death: Did UK, Australia PMs dismiss Canada's claims against India? Trudeau tried to put diplomatic pressure on India by engaging with UK, US, France and its other so-called “close allies”. He reportedly gave a briefing of the case to these countries. Reactions also started to pour in from different world leaders over the row. But Trudeau, who is looking for greener diplomatic pastures, failed to secure backing from its “closest allies” because, unsurprisingly, they declined to rebuke New Delhi over the death of the Khalistani terrorist. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese refrained from making any negative statements towards India. "Seriously, you should chill out a bit. You know, we were at a venue where Bruce Springsteen played the last time I was there," he told a reporter who pressed him on the matter. Also Read | Banned separatist group SFJ threatens to shut down Indian consulates "And I made the point that the reception he got from the community... the Indian diaspora welcomed him very strongly, it's as simple as that," he added. UK PM Rishi Sunak also refrained from engaging in any kind of preaching to India, with his spokesperson saying that his top priority is to secure a trade deal with India. Watch | India-Canada Row: India expels senior Canadian diplomat over anti-India activities × Earlier, the banned Indian separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) said that it will hold protests and will shut down Indian consulate offices in Canada in the upcoming week, a Canadian media outlet Global News reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Not trying to provoke...' : Trudeau attempts to pacify row over Hardeep Singh Nijjar death

India's first solar mission Aditya L-1 has begun collecting scientific data. The milestone marks another significant step forward for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and as it prepares to study the sun like never before.

India sun mission Aditya-L1 begins collecting data from distance of 50,000 kms | World DNA

Indian government has rubbished Canada's claim of having links in killing of Khalistani terrorist, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. After Justin Trudeau's government expelled an Indian diplomat, in a tit-for-tat move, India has a senior Canadian diplomat to leave the country. The flaring tensions between the two nations have also put a pause on trade deal agreement. Many are claiming that the Canadian prime minister is diverting from key issue of inflation, ahead of Canada's parliament session.

India-Canada Row: India and Canada expel senior diplomats

According to a study by Future Crime Research Foundation, an IIT Kanpur incubated startup, financial fraud is the number one form of cybercrime in India. Right, and the study shows that between January 2020 and June 2023 financial frauds accounted for over 75 per cent of the Cybercrimes in India.

Study: Financial fraud top cybercrime in India

On Monday, Canada said that it was actively pursuing credible allegations linking the Indian government agents to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in British Columbia in June.

Canada expels Indian diplomat amid tensions over killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Nijjar

The Indian Union Cabinet has approved a bill proposing the reservation of 33 per cent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, reports suggest.&nbsp;However, the Indian government has not made an official announcement regarding this decision. This comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier teased that "historic decisions" will be taken&nbsp;during the Special Session of the Indian Parliament, the second day of which will be conducted in the new building.&nbsp;

The government on Monday (September 18) refrained from the customary post-Cabinet meeting briefing. Now, after this big development, anticipation is mounting as to what lies ahead in the Special Session.&nbsp;

The Women's Reservation Bill was introduced for the first time in the parliament on September 12, 1996. The focal point of the deliberation was the introduction of a constitutional amendment bill with the aim of reserving one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women.

Now, after about 27 years, since its initial introduction to parliament, the Women's Reservation Bill has been approved by the Cabinet and will be tabled in Parliament. Different versions of the bill were also introduced in 1998, 1999, and 2008.&nbsp;

A number of crucial discussions were held preceding the Cabinet meeting. It included meetings between Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, and Home Minister Amit Shah, along with the presence of BJP chief JP Nadda.

Amid speculation over the outcome&nbsp;of the Cabinet meeting, Indian media outlet NDTV, citing sources, reported on the approval of the bill.&nbsp;Indian Union Minister Prahlad Singh Patel, in a now-deleted post on X, said,&nbsp;"Only the Modi government had the moral courage to fulfil the demand for women's reservation. Which was proved by the approval of the cabinet. Congratulations PM Narendra Modi and congratulations to the PM Modi government."&nbsp;

Congress leader and former Finance Minister, P&nbsp;Chidambaram touted the potential introduction of the bill as a win for the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government.&nbsp;

In a post on X, P&nbsp;Chidambaram wrote, "If the government introduces the Women's Reservation Bill tomorrow, it will be a victory for the Congress and its allies in the UPA government. Remember, it was during the UPA government that the Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha on 9-3-2010. In its 10th year, the BJP is resurrecting the Bill that it had buried in the hope that the clamour for the Bill will die."

He added, "On the contrary, at every opportunity -- most recently at the CWC at Hyderabad -- the Congress has vociferously pleaded for the Bill to be passed in Parliament. Let's hope that the Bill will be introduced and passed in the ongoing Session."&nbsp;

Prior to the Cabinet meeting, speculations were rife about decisions on reservations&nbsp;for women or Other Backward Classes. Other potential proposals&nbsp;which were keenly looked into by political pundits were regarding "One Nation One Election" and even a change of the country's name from India to Bharat.&nbsp;

<h2>All-party calls for Women's Reservation Bill</h2>

Leading up to the parliament's five-day session which commenced Monday, both ruling and opposition parties voiced strong support for the women's reservation bill.

During an all-party meeting convened by the government on the eve of the session, many leaders called on the urgency of tabling the long-pending bill and expressed hope for its consensus passage. The bill, at the heart of these discussions, is aimed at reserving one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women.

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The Indian Union Cabinet has approved a bill proposing the reservation of 33 per cent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, reports suggest.

The Indian Union Cabinet has approved a bill proposing the reservation of 33 per cent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, reports suggest. However, the Indian government has not made an official announcement regarding this decision. This comes as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier teased that "historic decisions" will be taken during the Special Session of the Indian Parliament, the second day of which will be conducted in the new building. The government on Monday (September 18) refrained from the customary post-Cabinet meeting briefing. Now, after this big development, anticipation is mounting as to what lies ahead in the Special Session. The Women's Reservation Bill was introduced for the first time in the parliament on September 12, 1996. The focal point of the deliberation was the introduction of a constitutional amendment bill with the aim of reserving one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women. Now, after about 27 years, since its initial introduction to parliament, the Women's Reservation Bill has been approved by the Cabinet and will be tabled in Parliament. Different versions of the bill were also introduced in 1998, 1999, and 2008. A number of crucial discussions were held preceding the Cabinet meeting. It included meetings between Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, and Home Minister Amit Shah, along with the presence of BJP chief JP Nadda. Amid speculation over the outcome of the Cabinet meeting, Indian media outlet NDTV, citing sources, reported on the approval of the bill. Indian Union Minister Prahlad Singh Patel, in a now-deleted post on X, said, "Only the Modi government had the moral courage to fulfil the demand for women's reservation. Which was proved by the approval of the cabinet. Congratulations PM Narendra Modi and congratulations to the PM Modi government." Congress leader and former Finance Minister, P Chidambaram touted the potential introduction of the bill as a win for the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. In a post on X, P Chidambaram wrote, "If the government introduces the Women's Reservation Bill tomorrow, it will be a victory for the Congress and its allies in the UPA government. Remember, it was during the UPA government that the Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha on 9-3-2010. In its 10th year, the BJP is resurrecting the Bill that it had buried in the hope that the clamour for the Bill will die." He added, "On the contrary, at every opportunity -- most recently at the CWC at Hyderabad -- the Congress has vociferously pleaded for the Bill to be passed in Parliament. Let's hope that the Bill will be introduced and passed in the ongoing Session." Prior to the Cabinet meeting, speculations were rife about decisions on reservations for women or Other Backward Classes. Other potential proposals which were keenly looked into by political pundits were regarding "One Nation One Election" and even a change of the country's name from India to Bharat. All-party calls for Women's Reservation Bill Leading up to the parliament's five-day session which commenced Monday, both ruling and opposition parties voiced strong support for the women's reservation bill. During an all-party meeting convened by the government on the eve of the session, many leaders called on the urgency of tabling the long-pending bill and expressed hope for its consensus passage. The bill, at the heart of these discussions, is aimed at reserving one-third of all seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

India: Women's Reservation Bill clears Cabinet meet after Modi teases 'historic decisions', says report

Brazil has offered to share its ethanol manufacturing technology with India, in an attempt to put an end to their long-running disagreements over the sugar industry, the Financial Express reported on Monday.

A ministerial conference and several rounds of formal negotiations between the two parties led to the development.

The offer on ethanol technology might be the deciding factor because India wants to proceed quickly with the use of biofuels for stand-alone usage in transportation as well as for blending with petroleum fuels.

“Brazil is saying they will share with us technology for ethanol production. It is a positive thing. We should be able to get a good outcome (in talks),” the Financial Express quoted an anonymous official as saying. But the representative withheld information on the Indian proposal during the negotiations.

Brazil is a major manufacturer of ethanol and sugarcane. It has attained a 25 per cent level and is a leader in gasoline with ethanol added. In Brazil, a sizable market for flex-fuel vehicles that can run on either gasoline or ethanol has now been cornered, making up 83 per cent of sales of new light vehicles in 2022.

By FY 26, India wants to increase the current 10 per cent ethanol blend to 20 per cent. Diesel and ethanol blends are also being tested. Additionally, it is the Global Alliance's proposer and coordinator, which was established on its idea during the G-20 Summit on September 9. &nbsp;Along with the presidents of the US, Brazil, Argentina, Italy, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Mauritius, and Bangladesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched it.

All major manufacturers currently provide vehicles with flex fuel engines, and late last month Roads and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari unveiled the first electric flex-fuel vehicle produced in India by Toyota.

The Indian government is pushing ethanol in order to increase farm revenue in addition to lowering the cost of importing crude oil for transportation and aiding in the decarbonisation of transportation. Some sources claim that sugarcane farmers' incomes could increase by 15 per cent as a result of ethanol. Sugar price increases are not under much pressure since farmers are earning more money from ethanol. Additionally, it increases the cash flow and profitability of sugarcane processors.

Given that it involves two of the biggest sugar producers in the world, the India-Brazil sugar dispute is critical. The resolution of the conflict could have a significant effect on the world sugar market.

The India-Brazil sugar dispute began in 2005 when India complained to the World Trade Organization (WTO) about Brazil's sugar subsidies, claiming that they were affecting Indian sugar farmers and causing the global sugar market to become distorted. Brazil had to cut back on its sugar subsidies after the WTO decided in favour of India.

Despite this, the conflict has persisted, with India and Brazil trading charges of breaking WTO regulations. Brazil contested India's support programmes for sugarcane farmers and sugar export subsidies in 2019. Brazil said that these actions were against the WTO's Agriculture Agreement (AoA).

In response to a complaint from Brazil, the WTO's Dispute Settlement Panel stated in a report distributed to members in December 2021 that India's support for sugarcane producers between 2014–15 and 2018–19 exceeded the permissible amount of 10 per cent of the total value of production, in violation of AoA provisions. Costa Rica and Guatemala later asked to join the dispute. Other nations participated in the dispute as third parties.

The panel's decision has been contested by India, but as the WTO's Appellate Body is now inactive, efforts have been made to resolve the dispute bilaterally.

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Brazil has offered to share its ethanol manufacturing technology with India, in an attempt to put an end to their long-running disagreements over the sugar industry, the Financial Express reported on Monday.

Brazil has offered to share its ethanol manufacturing technology with India, in an attempt to put an end to their long-running disagreements over the sugar industry, the Financial Express reported on Monday. A ministerial conference and several rounds of formal negotiations between the two parties led to the development. The offer on ethanol technology might be the deciding factor because India wants to proceed quickly with the use of biofuels for stand-alone usage in transportation as well as for blending with petroleum fuels. “Brazil is saying they will share with us technology for ethanol production. It is a positive thing. We should be able to get a good outcome (in talks),” the Financial Express quoted an anonymous official as saying. But the representative withheld information on the Indian proposal during the negotiations. Brazil is a major manufacturer of ethanol and sugarcane. It has attained a 25 per cent level and is a leader in gasoline with ethanol added. In Brazil, a sizable market for flex-fuel vehicles that can run on either gasoline or ethanol has now been cornered, making up 83 per cent of sales of new light vehicles in 2022. By FY 26, India wants to increase the current 10 per cent ethanol blend to 20 per cent. Diesel and ethanol blends are also being tested. Additionally, it is the Global Alliance's proposer and coordinator, which was established on its idea during the G-20 Summit on September 9. Along with the presidents of the US, Brazil, Argentina, Italy, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Mauritius, and Bangladesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched it. All major manufacturers currently provide vehicles with flex fuel engines, and late last month Roads and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari unveiled the first electric flex-fuel vehicle produced in India by Toyota. The Indian government is pushing ethanol in order to increase farm revenue in addition to lowering the cost of importing crude oil for transportation and aiding in the decarbonisation of transportation. Some sources claim that sugarcane farmers' incomes could increase by 15 per cent as a result of ethanol. Sugar price increases are not under much pressure since farmers are earning more money from ethanol. Additionally, it increases the cash flow and profitability of sugarcane processors. Given that it involves two of the biggest sugar producers in the world, the India-Brazil sugar dispute is critical. The resolution of the conflict could have a significant effect on the world sugar market. The India-Brazil sugar dispute began in 2005 when India complained to the World Trade Organization (WTO) about Brazil's sugar subsidies, claiming that they were affecting Indian sugar farmers and causing the global sugar market to become distorted. Brazil had to cut back on its sugar subsidies after the WTO decided in favour of India. Despite this, the conflict has persisted, with India and Brazil trading charges of breaking WTO regulations. Brazil contested India's support programmes for sugarcane farmers and sugar export subsidies in 2019. Brazil said that these actions were against the WTO's Agriculture Agreement (AoA). In response to a complaint from Brazil, the WTO's Dispute Settlement Panel stated in a report distributed to members in December 2021 that India's support for sugarcane producers between 2014–15 and 2018–19 exceeded the permissible amount of 10 per cent of the total value of production, in violation of AoA provisions. Costa Rica and Guatemala later asked to join the dispute. Other nations participated in the dispute as third parties. The panel's decision has been contested by India, but as the WTO's Appellate Body is now inactive, efforts have been made to resolve the dispute bilaterally. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Brazil to offer India ethanol technology to resolve ongoing sugar dispute: Report

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