Is it time for India to think about capital account convertibility? Watch Vikram Chandra in conversation with two of the biggest experts on the topic, economist Dr. Surjit Bhalla and former deputy governor of RBI, Rama Subramaniam Gandhi.

'Full convertibility is a process' says Ex-Deputy Governor of RBI Rama Gandhi

Roadmap to capital account convertibility

Amid tight security and boycott from some countries including China, India successfully hosted the G20 meeting in Srinagar. What are the key takeaways from the event? Vikram Chandra finds out from former raw chief A.S Dulat on The India Story.

'Kashmiris don't want to join Pakistan' says Ex-Raw Chief A.S Dulat

Implications of G20 Srinagar meet

<p>Decades after inspiring a best-selling novel that brought readers into slums near Kolkata, 86-year-old ascetic Gaston Dayanand is still working for India's poorest.</p>

<p>His life helping people in the mega-slums of Pilkhana formed the plot of Dominique Lapierre's 1985 book "The City of Joy", which was later turned into a Patrick Swayze movie.</p>

<p>Born in 1937 to a Swiss working-class family in Geneva, Brother Gaston said he remembered deciding at six years of age to dedicate his life "to Christ and the poor".</p>

<p>"I never wanted to be a priest," the brother of the Prado congregation told AFP at the Inter-Religious Centre of Development (ICOD), an NGO he co-founded in Gohalopata, a village 75 kilometres (45 miles) southwest of Kolkata.</p>

<p>"The church would never have let me live in a slum with the poor, but my life was about sharing with the poorest."</p>

<p>A trained nurse, Brother Gaston arrived in India in 1972 to work with a French priest in a small self-help centre in Pilkhana.</p>

<p>"It was the biggest slum in India at the time, they said in the world!"</p>

<p>Having arrived on a tuk-tuk, he surprised the local residents by entering on foot.</p>

<p>"I didn't want to enter a place where there are so many poor people, on a rickshaw, like a rich person," he said.</p>

<p>"I went to places where there were no doctors, no non-governmental organisations, no Christians. That is to say, places that were completely abandoned."</p>

<h2><strong>'Chicago on the Ganges'</strong></h2>

<p>One day in 1981, Brother Gaston said he received a visit from Dominique Lapierre, who was "sent by Mother Teresa".</p>

<p>The well-known French author, who wanted to write a novel "about the poor", convinced the ascetic of his sincerity.</p>

<p>The two men became friends.</p>

<p>Lapierre, who died last December, described Brother Gaston as "one of the 'Lights of the World' whose epic of love and sharing I had the honour of recounting in my book 'The City of Joy'."</p>

<p>Translated throughout the world, Lapierre's novel, published in 1985, sold several million copies.</p>

<p>"He financed all my organisations at a rate of $3 million a year, almost all his royalties, for almost 30 years," Brother Gaston said.</p>

<p>But the film adaptation of the novel, in which Swayze plays a fictional doctor, displeased him: "I frankly hated this film. 'The City of Joy' has become 'Chicago on the Ganges'."</p>

<h2><strong>Surrounded by leprosy</strong></h2>

<p>At the time of Lapierre's visit, Mother Teresa was receiving medicine from all over the world.</p>

<p>She donated large quantities to the self-help centre, which Brother Gaston was able to use.</p>

<p>He trained nurses and established a dispensary.</p>

<p>"I had the medicine, I didn't need anything else," he said.</p>

<p>"We quickly had more than 60,000 patients the first year, 100,000 the second. Three years later, we had a small hospital."</p>

<p>As soon as he arrived in India, he decided to adopt the nationality.</p>

<p>"It took 20 years, of course," he said.</p>

<p>Brother Gaston was born with the surname Grandjean.</p>

<p>In India, he chose the surname "Dayanand", meaning "blessed (ananda) of mercy (daya)".</p>

<p>He worked for a long time with Mother Teresa's brothers caring for people suffering from leprosy in Pilkhana.</p>

<p>"I stayed for 18 years, surrounded by 500 lepers, in a very small room," he said.</p>

<p>Abdul Wohab, a 74-year-old social worker, said: "Gaston is a saint."</p>

<h2><strong>'A board to sleep on'</strong></h2>

<p>Now white-haired and confined to a wheelchair, Brother Gaston is still trying to help those in need in the northeastern province of West Bengal.</p>

<p>Of the 12 NGOs he founded since moving to India, six are still active, including the ICOD, which has taken in 81 people of all faiths, including orphans and the elderly, as well as those suffering from disabilities and mental health problems.</p>

<p>Brother Gaston said he spends "three-quarters of (his) days meditating" on his bed, facing Christ.</p>

<p>"I had never had anything else but a board to sleep on. Now I live like a bourgeois in a big bed," he said.</p>

<p>"But it's not me who wanted it," he added with a laugh.</p>

<p>"The worst part is that I accept it."</p>

<p>The ICOD's co-founder and director, Mamata Gosh, nicknamed "Gopa", watches over the man who taught her to be a nurse 25 years ago.</p>

<p>"Before him, I didn't know anything," the 43-year-old told AFP.</p>

<p>"He is my spiritual father."</p>

<p>Brother Gaston's day begins at 5:00 am with three hours of prayer, in front of a reproduction of the Shroud of Turin overhanging an Aum, the symbol of Hinduism, in his tiny oratory adjoining his room.</p>

<p>Dressed all in white and barefoot, he sits in his electric wheelchair and visits each of the residents of the thatched hamlet, then returns to his room in the late morning.</p>

<p>On his bedside table sits a Bible, a crucifix, his glasses and an old laptop that he uses to keep in touch with his NGO's donors.</p>

<p>"I will earn my bread until the last day of my life," he said.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Decades after inspiring a best-selling novel that brought readers into slums near Kolkata, 86-year-old ascetic Gaston Dayanand is still working for India's poorest.

Decades after inspiring a best-selling novel that brought readers into slums near Kolkata, 86-year-old ascetic Gaston Dayanand is still working for India's poorest. His life helping people in the mega-slums of Pilkhana formed the plot of Dominique Lapierre's 1985 book "The City of Joy", which was later turned into a Patrick Swayze movie. Born in 1937 to a Swiss working-class family in Geneva, Brother Gaston said he remembered deciding at six years of age to dedicate his life "to Christ and the poor". "I never wanted to be a priest," the brother of the Prado congregation told AFP at the Inter-Religious Centre of Development (ICOD), an NGO he co-founded in Gohalopata, a village 75 kilometres (45 miles) southwest of Kolkata. "The church would never have let me live in a slum with the poor, but my life was about sharing with the poorest." A trained nurse, Brother Gaston arrived in India in 1972 to work with a French priest in a small self-help centre in Pilkhana. "It was the biggest slum in India at the time, they said in the world!" Having arrived on a tuk-tuk, he surprised the local residents by entering on foot. "I didn't want to enter a place where there are so many poor people, on a rickshaw, like a rich person," he said. "I went to places where there were no doctors, no non-governmental organisations, no Christians. That is to say, places that were completely abandoned." 'Chicago on the Ganges' One day in 1981, Brother Gaston said he received a visit from Dominique Lapierre, who was "sent by Mother Teresa". The well-known French author, who wanted to write a novel "about the poor", convinced the ascetic of his sincerity. The two men became friends. Lapierre, who died last December, described Brother Gaston as "one of the 'Lights of the World' whose epic of love and sharing I had the honour of recounting in my book 'The City of Joy'." Translated throughout the world, Lapierre's novel, published in 1985, sold several million copies. "He financed all my organisations at a rate of $3 million a year, almost all his royalties, for almost 30 years," Brother Gaston said. But the film adaptation of the novel, in which Swayze plays a fictional doctor, displeased him: "I frankly hated this film. 'The City of Joy' has become 'Chicago on the Ganges'." Surrounded by leprosy At the time of Lapierre's visit, Mother Teresa was receiving medicine from all over the world. She donated large quantities to the self-help centre, which Brother Gaston was able to use. He trained nurses and established a dispensary. "I had the medicine, I didn't need anything else," he said. "We quickly had more than 60,000 patients the first year, 100,000 the second. Three years later, we had a small hospital." As soon as he arrived in India, he decided to adopt the nationality. "It took 20 years, of course," he said. Brother Gaston was born with the surname Grandjean. In India, he chose the surname "Dayanand", meaning "blessed (ananda) of mercy (daya)". He worked for a long time with Mother Teresa's brothers caring for people suffering from leprosy in Pilkhana. "I stayed for 18 years, surrounded by 500 lepers, in a very small room," he said. Abdul Wohab, a 74-year-old social worker, said: "Gaston is a saint." 'A board to sleep on' Now white-haired and confined to a wheelchair, Brother Gaston is still trying to help those in need in the northeastern province of West Bengal. Of the 12 NGOs he founded since moving to India, six are still active, including the ICOD, which has taken in 81 people of all faiths, including orphans and the elderly, as well as those suffering from disabilities and mental health problems. Brother Gaston said he spends "three-quarters of (his) days meditating" on his bed, facing Christ. "I had never had anything else but a board to sleep on. Now I live like a bourgeois in a big bed," he said. "But it's not me who wanted it," he added with a laugh. "The worst part is that I accept it." The ICOD's co-founder and director, Mamata Gosh, nicknamed "Gopa", watches over the man who taught her to be a nurse 25 years ago. "Before him, I didn't know anything," the 43-year-old told AFP. "He is my spiritual father." Brother Gaston's day begins at 5:00 am with three hours of prayer, in front of a reproduction of the Shroud of Turin overhanging an Aum, the symbol of Hinduism, in his tiny oratory adjoining his room. Dressed all in white and barefoot, he sits in his electric wheelchair and visits each of the residents of the thatched hamlet, then returns to his room in the late morning. On his bedside table sits a Bible, a crucifix, his glasses and an old laptop that he uses to keep in touch with his NGO's donors. "I will earn my bread until the last day of my life," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Brother Gaston, inspiration for Dominique Lapierre's 'City of Joy', still working for India's poor

When the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, James Marape, touched Indian PM Narendra Modi’s feet, the unique gesture of respect created a stir across the world. His humility and the warm welcome he gave to visiting Indian PM. WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal had a conversation with James Marape on the Indian PM Modi's visit and the geostrategic significance of Pacific nations.

Papua New Guinea PM James Marape speaks on defense pact with India

<p>Since his re-election in 2022, President Macron of France has been facing severe protests. The primary reason for these continued protests is the change he has brought in the French Pension System that require people to work for two more years, before they can start earning their state pension. While there is an economic argument for these reforms, it seems to have disturbed an inherent social contract across the generations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Current social security frameworks in many of the developed nations are built on a social contract where those of working age pay their dues so that retired people can receive their retirement benefits (including pension and healthcare). This system seems to have been working till now, but not more. With development, life expectancy has increased across the world, and so have the costs of social security.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/another-71-earthquake-rocks-east-of-new-caledonia-in-pacific-ocean-594298">Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued</a></p>

<p>Coupled with an aging population, this has created a giant mismatch in the pension fund and its future liabilities. Two obvious options include either increase in funds for pension, and the other being cut in benefits. Without a significant rise in productivity and real incomes, taxing more for pension pots is extremely difficult. And thus, governments across the developing world are contemplating real cuts to the benefits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Like many other countries, France has attempted to approach this issue by primarily cutting the benefits by making people work for more years, and hence reduction in actual pension benefits. The issue of inadequacy of pension has played out even earlier in Japan, where most people are forced to work till their late sixties or early seventies, or look for alternative/part-time employment after retirement, as the pension payments are simply inadequate to survive.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-japans-kishida-hold-talks-on-sidelines-of-g7-594288">PM Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7, unveils Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima</a></p>

<p>However, perceived lower productivity and thus lesser acceptance of older people into the workforce further the struggle of retirees. On the other side, Spain plans to reduce its pension shortfall by raising additional funds, rather than cutting benefits. And, it plans to fund this by making younger people pay more, along with companies. This solution has also the potential to create tension in an intergenerational contract.</p>

<p>Watch | Who was behind the 2022 clashes in Leicester?</p>

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<p>This is an important cautionary tale for India and points to the need for more responsible and prudent financial decisions. This is despite the fact that most Indians don’t have any or enough social security provisions from the government. The Indian government, quite prudently, shifted away from a defined benefit pension for public sector workers, to a defined contribution framework in 2004. However, we have seen recent instances where many of the state governments have started going back to a defined benefit structure, and that raises alarm bells regarding a potential pension crisis later.</p>

<p>This month, Himachal Pradesh is going back to the defined contribution scheme, while Punjab, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand have already reverted to it. While, unlike OECD countries, India has a relatively younger population along with a growing economy, these pension commitments still put a very large burden on our economy, and more importantly on future generations.</p>

<p>While governments across the world continue to struggle with various ways of ensuring stable and reasonable social security provisions, there is also a note of caution for individuals. For centuries, families have remained the strongest unit in terms of individual social security. However, with rising incomes along with welfare states, increasingly more and more people started relying on governments for their education, healthcare, and post-retirement incomes. This is particularly the case in much of the developed world. However, global uncertainties and market volatilities have once again revealed the cost of such dependence, let alone the intergenerational tensions, as we see in much of the Western world.</p>

<p>Traditional responsibilities of families have been gradually taken over by ‘excessive’ welfare states. However, the challenges in doing so are monumental as many of those states now realise. For instance, last year, the Confederation of German Employers’ Association warned the government about the dire state of the country’s pension system and argued it to be “on the verge of collapse” without bold reforms. The case is not very much different in far richer Switzerland, where even after reforms, the pension shortfall was estimated at USD 734 Billion in 2022, which is around 90% of Switzerland’s GDP.</p>

<p>For India, the government’s ability to raise additional funds is often limited by its continued fiscal deficit as well as current account deficits and thus committing the money in the future, without prudent management, could become a monumental mistake. While a vocal and powerful, but very small section, primarily public sector employees, might be seeking to turn the state towards defined contribution pensions, governments across the board must resist.<br />
<br />
<strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></p>

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Since his re-election in 2022, President Macron of France has been facing severe protests. The primary reason for these continued protests is the change he has brought in the French Pension System that require people to work for two more years, before they can start earning their state pension.

Since his re-election in 2022, President Macron of France has been facing severe protests. The primary reason for these continued protests is the change he has brought in the French Pension System that require people to work for two more years, before they can start earning their state pension. While there is an economic argument for these reforms, it seems to have disturbed an inherent social contract across the generations. Current social security frameworks in many of the developed nations are built on a social contract where those of working age pay their dues so that retired people can receive their retirement benefits (including pension and healthcare). This system seems to have been working till now, but not more. With development, life expectancy has increased across the world, and so have the costs of social security. Also Read | Another 7.1 earthquake rocks east of New Caledonia in Pacific Ocean, tsunami warning issued Coupled with an aging population, this has created a giant mismatch in the pension fund and its future liabilities. Two obvious options include either increase in funds for pension, and the other being cut in benefits. Without a significant rise in productivity and real incomes, taxing more for pension pots is extremely difficult. And thus, governments across the developing world are contemplating real cuts to the benefits. Like many other countries, France has attempted to approach this issue by primarily cutting the benefits by making people work for more years, and hence reduction in actual pension benefits. The issue of inadequacy of pension has played out even earlier in Japan, where most people are forced to work till their late sixties or early seventies, or look for alternative/part-time employment after retirement, as the pension payments are simply inadequate to survive. Also Read | PM Modi meets Japan's Kishida on sidelines of G7, unveils Mahatma Gandhi's bust in Hiroshima However, perceived lower productivity and thus lesser acceptance of older people into the workforce further the struggle of retirees. On the other side, Spain plans to reduce its pension shortfall by raising additional funds, rather than cutting benefits. And, it plans to fund this by making younger people pay more, along with companies. This solution has also the potential to create tension in an intergenerational contract. Watch | Who was behind the 2022 clashes in Leicester? × This is an important cautionary tale for India and points to the need for more responsible and prudent financial decisions. This is despite the fact that most Indians don’t have any or enough social security provisions from the government. The Indian government, quite prudently, shifted away from a defined benefit pension for public sector workers, to a defined contribution framework in 2004. However, we have seen recent instances where many of the state governments have started going back to a defined benefit structure, and that raises alarm bells regarding a potential pension crisis later. This month, Himachal Pradesh is going back to the defined contribution scheme, while Punjab, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand have already reverted to it. While, unlike OECD countries, India has a relatively younger population along with a growing economy, these pension commitments still put a very large burden on our economy, and more importantly on future generations. While governments across the world continue to struggle with various ways of ensuring stable and reasonable social security provisions, there is also a note of caution for individuals. For centuries, families have remained the strongest unit in terms of individual social security. However, with rising incomes along with welfare states, increasingly more and more people started relying on governments for their education, healthcare, and post-retirement incomes. This is particularly the case in much of the developed world. However, global uncertainties and market volatilities have once again revealed the cost of such dependence, let alone the intergenerational tensions, as we see in much of the Western world. Traditional responsibilities of families have been gradually taken over by ‘excessive’ welfare states. However, the challenges in doing so are monumental as many of those states now realise. For instance, last year, the Confederation of German Employers’ Association warned the government about the dire state of the country’s pension system and argued it to be “on the verge of collapse” without bold reforms. The case is not very much different in far richer Switzerland, where even after reforms, the pension shortfall was estimated at USD 734 Billion in 2022, which is around 90% of Switzerland’s GDP. For India, the government’s ability to raise additional funds is often limited by its continued fiscal deficit as well as current account deficits and thus committing the money in the future, without prudent management, could become a monumental mistake. While a vocal and powerful, but very small section, primarily public sector employees, might be seeking to turn the state towards defined contribution pensions, governments across the board must resist. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. 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. ×

Ticking crisis of pension: India needs to show extreme caution

The monsoon season in India is expected to generate 96% of average rainfall, according to the weather department's forecast. This is encouraging for the agrarian economy, which is experiencing a hot summer and the potential advent of El Nino weather conditions.

IMD retains 'normal monsoon' forecast despite El Nino threat

<p>In another major setback to&nbsp;the ambitious&nbsp;Project Cheetah, two more cubs lost their lives&nbsp;inside&nbsp;Kuno National Park&nbsp;in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh in central India. The cubs died just two days after another cub had lost his life.</p>

<p>The increasing deaths of cheetahs in the Kuno National Park have escalated worries over Project Cheetah's future in India. The cubs were found to be weak, underweight and poorly hydrated, said officials.<br />
<br />
Speaking about their deaths, South African wildlife expert Vincent van der Merwe said that there will be an increase in the mortality rate of these cheetahs in the coming months amid their reintroduction, PTI reported.<br />
<br />
The expert added that there are chances of cheetahs' mortality rate increasing by 50 per cent in the first year. “We anticipate a 50 per cent mortality in the first year, we know that only 10 are going to survive the initial release period. There's going to be more than enough prey for them,” he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-another-cheetah-dies-at-kuno-national-park-third-death-in-40-days-590668">India: Another cheetah dies at Kuno National Park, third death in 40 days</a></p>

<p>According to the expert, there will be more deaths as the big cats will make attempts to establish territories and in these efforts, they will encounter tigers and leopards inside the national park.<br />
<br />
He further added that the recent deaths of cheetahs have occurred within the acceptable range. However, he added that the killing of female cheetahs by males during mating was uncalled for.</p>

<h2><strong>What can India do to save cheetahs?</strong></h2>

<p>The wildlife expert stated that the habitats should be fenced so that access to resources by other animals can be controlled and the overall threat to these cheetahs can be reduced.<br />
<br />
He added that the reintroduction of cheetahs has never been successful in an unfenced reserve. Merwe further said that at least two to three cheetahs should be brought to Mukundra Hills where they can breed.<br />
<br />
"Mukundra Hills is fully fenced. We know that cheetahs will do very well there. The only problem is that it's not fully stocked at the moment. So you'll have to bring in some black buck and chinkara. And when the fencing is completed at Nauradehi and Gandhisagar, we will have three fenced reserves and then we are absolutely winning," he added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India to receive South Africa's Cheetah; 12 Cheetahs to come to India | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>'Death is normal after relocation'</strong></h2>

<p>The wildlife expert stated that the death of cheetahs is normal after relocation.<br />
<br />
"That's where you can expect mortality due to hunting injury. The cheetahs, of course, will continue to establish territories and fight with each other and kill each other for territories and for access to females. They're going to encounter leopards. There are now tigers moving around in Kuno. The worst mortalities are still to come," he stated.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In another major setback to the ambitious Project Cheetah, two more cubs lost their lives inside Kuno National Park in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh in central India.

In another major setback to the ambitious Project Cheetah, two more cubs lost their lives inside Kuno National Park in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh in central India. The cubs died just two days after another cub had lost his life. The increasing deaths of cheetahs in the Kuno National Park have escalated worries over Project Cheetah's future in India. The cubs were found to be weak, underweight and poorly hydrated, said officials. Speaking about their deaths, South African wildlife expert Vincent van der Merwe said that there will be an increase in the mortality rate of these cheetahs in the coming months amid their reintroduction, PTI reported. The expert added that there are chances of cheetahs' mortality rate increasing by 50 per cent in the first year. “We anticipate a 50 per cent mortality in the first year, we know that only 10 are going to survive the initial release period. There's going to be more than enough prey for them,” he added. ALSO READ | India: Another cheetah dies at Kuno National Park, third death in 40 days According to the expert, there will be more deaths as the big cats will make attempts to establish territories and in these efforts, they will encounter tigers and leopards inside the national park. He further added that the recent deaths of cheetahs have occurred within the acceptable range. However, he added that the killing of female cheetahs by males during mating was uncalled for. What can India do to save cheetahs? The wildlife expert stated that the habitats should be fenced so that access to resources by other animals can be controlled and the overall threat to these cheetahs can be reduced. He added that the reintroduction of cheetahs has never been successful in an unfenced reserve. Merwe further said that at least two to three cheetahs should be brought to Mukundra Hills where they can breed. "Mukundra Hills is fully fenced. We know that cheetahs will do very well there. The only problem is that it's not fully stocked at the moment. So you'll have to bring in some black buck and chinkara. And when the fencing is completed at Nauradehi and Gandhisagar, we will have three fenced reserves and then we are absolutely winning," he added. WATCH | India to receive South Africa's Cheetah; 12 Cheetahs to come to India | WION Climate Tracker 'Death is normal after relocation' The wildlife expert stated that the death of cheetahs is normal after relocation. "That's where you can expect mortality due to hunting injury. The cheetahs, of course, will continue to establish territories and fight with each other and kill each other for territories and for access to females. They're going to encounter leopards. There are now tigers moving around in Kuno. The worst mortalities are still to come," he stated. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Three cheetah cubs dead in India’s Kuno National Park, expert warns of higher mortality

Incumbent Governor of West New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, Sasindran Muthuvel, speaks to WION correspondent Sidhant Sibal on the significance of Sengol in Indian Parliament.

First Indian-origin Governor, Sasindran Muthuvel, on the significance of Sengol in Indian Parliament

<p>The United States and Germany are set to bolster their defence partnerships with India through high-level visits by US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin III and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, respectively.<br />
<br />
Secretary Austin's visit, scheduled for June 4-5, comes as the United States and India seek to enhance their strategic collaboration under the framework of the US-India Major Defence Partnership.</p>

<p>During his stay in New Delhi, Secretary Austin will engage in discussions with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other prominent leaders.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-jaishankar-flags-need-for-adherence-respect-for-constitution-of-the-oceans-unclos-591885">EXCLUSIVE: Jaishankar flags need for adherence to, respect for ‘constitution of the oceans’ UNCLOS</a></p>

<p>The Pentagon's statement emphasised that this visit presents an opportunity to expedite defence innovation and promote industrial co-operation, further strengthening the operational collaboration between the US and Indian militaries.<br />
<br />
Parallel to this visit, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is scheduled to arrive in India on June 6. While specific details about his visit remain undisclosed, it is believed that the primary focus will be on promoting a submarine deal between the two nations.</p>

<p>This visit underscores Germany's keen interest in deepening its defence co-operation with India, an emerging global power.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Ambassador Sibi George speaks to Wion ahead of PM's Japan visit</strong></p>

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<p>The visits by Secretary Austin and Defence Minister Pistorius underscore the increasing global recognition of India's strategic importance and its rising role in maintaining regional stability.</p>

<p>As major economies and democracies, the United States and Germany's initiatives to bolster their defence ties with India demonstrate the shared commitment to advancing security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.</p>

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The United States and Germany are set to bolster their defence partnerships with India through high-level visits by US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin III and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, respectively.

The United States and Germany are set to bolster their defence partnerships with India through high-level visits by US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin III and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, respectively. Secretary Austin's visit, scheduled for June 4-5, comes as the United States and India seek to enhance their strategic collaboration under the framework of the US-India Major Defence Partnership. During his stay in New Delhi, Secretary Austin will engage in discussions with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other prominent leaders. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Jaishankar flags need for adherence to, respect for ‘constitution of the oceans’ UNCLOS The Pentagon's statement emphasised that this visit presents an opportunity to expedite defence innovation and promote industrial co-operation, further strengthening the operational collaboration between the US and Indian militaries. Parallel to this visit, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is scheduled to arrive in India on June 6. While specific details about his visit remain undisclosed, it is believed that the primary focus will be on promoting a submarine deal between the two nations. This visit underscores Germany's keen interest in deepening its defence co-operation with India, an emerging global power. WATCH | Indian Ambassador Sibi George speaks to Wion ahead of PM's Japan visit The visits by Secretary Austin and Defence Minister Pistorius underscore the increasing global recognition of India's strategic importance and its rising role in maintaining regional stability. As major economies and democracies, the United States and Germany's initiatives to bolster their defence ties with India demonstrate the shared commitment to advancing security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US Defence Secretary Austin and German Defence Minister Pistorius to visit India

<p>India's Supreme Court on Friday quashed a plea that sought directions from the top court that the inauguration of the new Indian Parliament building should be done by the President of India Draupadi Murmu instead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The bench consisting of Justices JK Maheshwari and PS Narasimha declined to entertain the Public Interest Litigation which was filed by petitioner Advocate CR Jaya Sukin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What is your interest?", the bench questioned. "The head of the executive is the President... President is my president", the petitioner said.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/11-year-old-black-boy-shot-in-chest-by-mississippi-police-he-called-for-help-596673">11-year-old black boy shot in chest by Mississippi police he called for help</a></p>

<p>Giving argument to the petitioner, Justice Narasimha said "We don't understand why you come with such petitions...we're not interested in entertaining it under Article 32".</p>

<p>The petitioner referred to Article 79 of the Indian Constitution, according to which, the Parliament of India comprises President and the two houses, Lok Sabha (lower house) and Rajya Sabha (upper house).</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-his-loyalists-orchestrated-may-9-violence-intel-report-596659">Imran, his loyalists orchestrated May 9 violence: Intel report</a></p>

<p>"How is Article 79 related to the inauguration?", Justice Maheshwari raised question. "President is the head of the parliament, he should open the building. Executive head is the only head who should open....", the petitioner submitted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bench was not convinced by the arguments put forth by the petitioner and just as it was about to decline the pleas, the petitioner requested permission to withdraw it.</p>

<p>However, Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta said that the pleas must not be allowed to withdraw as doing that will lead to the petitioner filing the same petition in the High Court.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle</strong></p>

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<p>Mehta insisted that the apex court should conclusively declare that the matter is not justiciable, reported Live Law.</p>

<p>Upon this, the petitioner said that he has no plans to go to the High Court. Giving reasoning for the same, he said he was withdrawing the plea so that the dismissal will not become a "certificate to the executive." The plea was later withdrawn upon the court's disinterest to entertain the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu is not being invited to the inauguration of the new Parliament Building. Indian President enjoys certain powers and performs a variety of ceremonial functions. The powers of the President include Executive, Legislative, Judiciary, emergency, and military powers...", the petition said.</p>

<h2><strong>19 opposition parties boycott new Parliament building inauguration</strong></h2>

<p>As many as 19 opposition political parties have decided to boycott the&nbsp;inauguration ceremony of the new Parliament building.&nbsp;“In short, the Parliament cannot function without the President. Yet, the Prime Minister has decided to inaugurate the new Parliament building without her. This undignified act insults the high office of the President, and violates the letter and spirit of the Constitution. It undermines the spirit of inclusion which saw the nation celebrate its first woman adivasi President,” a joint statement by the parties said.<br />
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India's Supreme Court on Friday quashed a plea that sought directions from the top court that the inauguration of the new Indian Parliament building should be done by the President of India Draupadi Murmu instead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India's Supreme Court on Friday quashed a plea that sought directions from the top court that the inauguration of the new Indian Parliament building should be done by the President of India Draupadi Murmu instead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The bench consisting of Justices JK Maheshwari and PS Narasimha declined to entertain the Public Interest Litigation which was filed by petitioner Advocate CR Jaya Sukin. "What is your interest?", the bench questioned. "The head of the executive is the President... President is my president", the petitioner said. Also Read | 11-year-old black boy shot in chest by Mississippi police he called for help Giving argument to the petitioner, Justice Narasimha said "We don't understand why you come with such petitions...we're not interested in entertaining it under Article 32". The petitioner referred to Article 79 of the Indian Constitution, according to which, the Parliament of India comprises President and the two houses, Lok Sabha (lower house) and Rajya Sabha (upper house). Also Read | Imran, his loyalists orchestrated May 9 violence: Intel report "How is Article 79 related to the inauguration?", Justice Maheshwari raised question. "President is the head of the parliament, he should open the building. Executive head is the only head who should open....", the petitioner submitted. The bench was not convinced by the arguments put forth by the petitioner and just as it was about to decline the pleas, the petitioner requested permission to withdraw it. However, Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta said that the pleas must not be allowed to withdraw as doing that will lead to the petitioner filing the same petition in the High Court. Watch | Battleground Bakhmut: Russia vs Ukraine | WION Wideangle × Mehta insisted that the apex court should conclusively declare that the matter is not justiciable, reported Live Law. Upon this, the petitioner said that he has no plans to go to the High Court. Giving reasoning for the same, he said he was withdrawing the plea so that the dismissal will not become a "certificate to the executive." The plea was later withdrawn upon the court's disinterest to entertain the matter. "President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu is not being invited to the inauguration of the new Parliament Building. Indian President enjoys certain powers and performs a variety of ceremonial functions. The powers of the President include Executive, Legislative, Judiciary, emergency, and military powers...", the petition said. 19 opposition parties boycott new Parliament building inauguration As many as 19 opposition political parties have decided to boycott the inauguration ceremony of the new Parliament building. “In short, the Parliament cannot function without the President. Yet, the Prime Minister has decided to inaugurate the new Parliament building without her. This undignified act insults the high office of the President, and violates the letter and spirit of the Constitution. It undermines the spirit of inclusion which saw the nation celebrate its first woman adivasi President,” a joint statement by the parties said. 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. ×

Indian SC quashes plea seeking inauguration of new Parliament building by President instead of PM

India's new Parliament building will be inaugurated by prime minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. A historic Chola-era inspired Relic will be placed in the new Parliament, this was announced by Home Minister Amit Shah. The Relic is a Sengol a replica of a golden scepter from Tamil Nadu dating back to 600 BC. Releasing a video India's Home Minister Amit Shah noted the historical importance of the Golden Sengol while the video also explained the use of symbolism at the time of India's Independence movement from the British Rule.

PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate new Indian Parliament on Sunday

'We see India as a strong, good partner', says Papua New Guinea PM James Marape

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (May 24) wrapped up his two-day visit to Australia. The trip's highlight was the 20,000-strong diaspora crowd that PM Modi addressed in Sydney alongside Australian PM Anthony Albanese and other politicians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite US President Joe Biden cancelling his Australia visit which led to the shelving of the Quad summit, PM Modi was the only leader that did not alter his plans. He visited Australia after a short trip to Papua New Guinea and managed to strengthen relations between the two countries. <strong>Here are the five key takeaways from the visit:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>India talks straight on Hindu temple vandalism in Australia</strong></h2>

<p>The recent incidents of attacks on Hindu temples in Australia had raised quite a few eyebrows in India. PM Modi, during wide-ranging talks with his Australian counterpart, raised the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Prime Minister Albanese and I have in the past discussed the issue of attacks on temples in Australia and activities of separatist elements. We discussed the matter today as well," said PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is not acceptable to us that anyone hurt the friendly and cordial ties between India and Australia by their actions or ideology," he said.</p>

<p>In a presser,&nbsp;Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, responding to WION's question about the attacks, reiterated that the Indian government had made its case clearly.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The attack on the temples and activities of the other separatist elements were discussed by the two Prime Ministers earlier, and today also. From the discussions last time till this time, the progress is clearly reflected in the fact that PM Modi thanked PM Albanese for the action that the Govt of Australia has taken against these elements," said Kwatra.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Quad and China</h2>

<p>Quad, an informal alliance between India, USA, Japan and Australia, was primarily formed to keep China in check in the Indo-Pacific. Despite Japan and USA missing from the action, India and Australia managed to hold a serious discussion on the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"PM Albanese and I have discussed in Quad Summit, about the peace in the region. We have discussed issues in the Indo-Pacific region," said PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kwatra added that the two leaders "spoke about free, open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific"&nbsp;and how India and Australia could work together.&nbsp;The two sides signed off saying they wanted to amplify and harness the opportunities but also to take active steps to mitigate the challenges that arise in the region.</p>

<h2><strong>Trade relations</strong></h2>

<p>To significantly expand bilateral trade ties, the two PMs decided to focus on a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).</p>

<p>"We are building a resilient and reliable supply chain. This will strengthen the business of both countries," said PM Modi.</p>

<p>The countries have already signed&nbsp;India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). PM Modi added that a&nbsp;"Migration and Mobility partnership" agreement had&nbsp;been reached between Australia and India&nbsp;which will facilitate the movement of skilled professionals.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indian-pm-narendra-modi-in-australia-595698"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Indian PM Narendra Modi in Australia</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Defence ties</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi in his speech pointed out the increased military relations between the two nations. He referred to&nbsp;“AUSTRA HIND 22” - a bilateral training exercise that took place last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The high degree of mutual trust between us has naturally translated into greater cooperation on defence and security matters. Our navies are participating in joint naval exercises. I am confident that there is merit in working together to realise the true potential in closer defence and security cooperation,” said Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Opening of consulates in Bengaluru, Brisbane</strong></h2>

<p>The PM on Tuesday announced that New Delhi will soon open its consulate in Brisbane, fulfilling a long-pending demand by the Indian diaspora.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“A new Indian consulate will be opened soon in Brisbane,” he said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modis-speech-in-australia-india-to-open-consulate-in-brisbane-harris-park-declared-as-little-india-595501"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;PM Modi’s speech in Australia: India to open consulate in Brisbane, Harris Park declared as ‘little India’</strong></a></p>

<p>Currently, India has a high commission in Canberra and consultates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. With the third largest diaspora population residing in Brisbane, it was long overdue that a consulate was opened there.&nbsp;According to Australia’s 2016 census, more than 619,000 people were of Indian ancestry. They make up 2.8% of the country’s population.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (May 24) wrapped up his two-day visit to Australia. The trip's highlight was the 20,000-strong diaspora crowd that PM Modi addressed in Sydney alongside Australian PM Anthony Albanese and other politicians.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (May 24) wrapped up his two-day visit to Australia. The trip's highlight was the 20,000-strong diaspora crowd that PM Modi addressed in Sydney alongside Australian PM Anthony Albanese and other politicians. Despite US President Joe Biden cancelling his Australia visit which led to the shelving of the Quad summit, PM Modi was the only leader that did not alter his plans. He visited Australia after a short trip to Papua New Guinea and managed to strengthen relations between the two countries. Here are the five key takeaways from the visit: India talks straight on Hindu temple vandalism in Australia The recent incidents of attacks on Hindu temples in Australia had raised quite a few eyebrows in India. PM Modi, during wide-ranging talks with his Australian counterpart, raised the issue. "Prime Minister Albanese and I have in the past discussed the issue of attacks on temples in Australia and activities of separatist elements. We discussed the matter today as well," said PM Modi. "It is not acceptable to us that anyone hurt the friendly and cordial ties between India and Australia by their actions or ideology," he said. In a presser, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, responding to WION's question about the attacks, reiterated that the Indian government had made its case clearly. "The attack on the temples and activities of the other separatist elements were discussed by the two Prime Ministers earlier, and today also. From the discussions last time till this time, the progress is clearly reflected in the fact that PM Modi thanked PM Albanese for the action that the Govt of Australia has taken against these elements," said Kwatra. Quad and China Quad, an informal alliance between India, USA, Japan and Australia, was primarily formed to keep China in check in the Indo-Pacific. Despite Japan and USA missing from the action, India and Australia managed to hold a serious discussion on the issue. "PM Albanese and I have discussed in Quad Summit, about the peace in the region. We have discussed issues in the Indo-Pacific region," said PM Modi. Kwatra added that the two leaders "spoke about free, open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific" and how India and Australia could work together. The two sides signed off saying they wanted to amplify and harness the opportunities but also to take active steps to mitigate the challenges that arise in the region. Trade relations To significantly expand bilateral trade ties, the two PMs decided to focus on a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA). "We are building a resilient and reliable supply chain. This will strengthen the business of both countries," said PM Modi. The countries have already signed India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). PM Modi added that a "Migration and Mobility partnership" agreement had been reached between Australia and India which will facilitate the movement of skilled professionals. WATCH | Gravitas: Indian PM Narendra Modi in Australia × Defence ties PM Modi in his speech pointed out the increased military relations between the two nations. He referred to “AUSTRA HIND 22” - a bilateral training exercise that took place last year. “The high degree of mutual trust between us has naturally translated into greater cooperation on defence and security matters. Our navies are participating in joint naval exercises. I am confident that there is merit in working together to realise the true potential in closer defence and security cooperation,” said Modi. Opening of consulates in Bengaluru, Brisbane The PM on Tuesday announced that New Delhi will soon open its consulate in Brisbane, fulfilling a long-pending demand by the Indian diaspora. “A new Indian consulate will be opened soon in Brisbane,” he said. ALSO READ | PM Modi’s speech in Australia: India to open consulate in Brisbane, Harris Park declared as ‘little India’ Currently, India has a high commission in Canberra and consultates in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. With the third largest diaspora population residing in Brisbane, it was long overdue that a consulate was opened there. According to Australia’s 2016 census, more than 619,000 people were of Indian ancestry. They make up 2.8% of the country’s population. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian PM Narendra Modi concludes two-day trip to Australia. Five key takeaways

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Monday said the US won’t be able to pay all its bills by early June, and as soon as June 1, if Congress doesn’t raise the debt ceiling.

Treasury Secretary says US won’t be able to pay all bills by June without increase in debt ceiling

<p>The Chinese government convened top tech companies this week and warned them of consequences if they cut off technology sales to the country, US media reported on Saturday.</p>

<p>The meeting followed US President Donald Trump's move last month to blacklist Chinese tech giant Huawei over national security concerns, threatening the firm's global ambitions and ramping up the months-long trade battle between the two countries.</p>

<p>Earlier this week, the Chinese government summoned executives from American firms Dell and Microsoft and South Korea's Samsung, among others, to warn them that any moves to ramp down their businesses in China may lead to retaliation, The New York Times reported.</p>

<p>American companies were told "that the Trump administration's move to cut off Chinese companies from American technology had disrupted the global supply chain, adding that companies that followed the policy could face permanent consequences," the newspaper reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Companies based outside the United States were told that as long as they maintained business as usual, they wouldn't be punished, the newspaper reported.</p>

<p>Last Friday, Facebook announced it would cut Huwaei off from its popular social networking app to comply with the US sanctions, further isolating the company that has become the world's second-largest smartphone vendor.</p>

<p>Google made a similar announcement in May.</p>

<p>Washington and Beijing resumed their trade battle last month when negotiations in the US ended without a deal and US President Donald Trump raised tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods.</p>

<p>Beijing retaliated with its own tariff hike on billions of dollars worth of US goods.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US move to cut Huawei off from American hardware came next, but was delayed by 90 days to prevent economic disruptions.</p>


The Chinese government convened top tech companies this week and warned them of consequences if they cut off technology sales to the country, US media reported on Saturday.

The Chinese government convened top tech companies this week and warned them of consequences if they cut off technology sales to the country, US media reported on Saturday. The meeting followed US President Donald Trump's move last month to blacklist Chinese tech giant Huawei over national security concerns, threatening the firm's global ambitions and ramping up the months-long trade battle between the two countries. Earlier this week, the Chinese government summoned executives from American firms Dell and Microsoft and South Korea's Samsung, among others, to warn them that any moves to ramp down their businesses in China may lead to retaliation, The New York Times reported. American companies were told "that the Trump administration's move to cut off Chinese companies from American technology had disrupted the global supply chain, adding that companies that followed the policy could face permanent consequences," the newspaper reported. Companies based outside the United States were told that as long as they maintained business as usual, they wouldn't be punished, the newspaper reported. Last Friday, Facebook announced it would cut Huwaei off from its popular social networking app to comply with the US sanctions, further isolating the company that has become the world's second-largest smartphone vendor. Google made a similar announcement in May. Washington and Beijing resumed their trade battle last month when negotiations in the US ended without a deal and US President Donald Trump raised tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods. Beijing retaliated with its own tariff hike on billions of dollars worth of US goods. The US move to cut Huawei off from American hardware came next, but was delayed by 90 days to prevent economic disruptions.

Facebook's parent company Meta eliminates jobs, sacks India's top executives

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his successful visit to Australia where he held bilateral discussions with the Australian government over trade, diplomatic and cultural ties.</p>

<p>During a community event at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, he received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora and&nbsp;elaborated on how relations between the two countries have grown stronger over the years.</p>

<p>Speaking exclusively to WION’s correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Indian-origin Deputy Premier Of New South Wales, Prue Car, reflected on PM Modi's visit to the country and the role Indian diaspora plays in strengthening the relations between the two countries.</p>

<p><strong>Here are a few excerpts</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see the Indian PM's visit to Sydney?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car:</strong> I don't think I have seen anything like this in a lifetime. It was a spectacular event. Celebrating PM's arrival. Also importantly, as a member of parliament, celebrate unique relations between both countries.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> <strong>Being someone of Indian origin yourself, how do you see the role of the Indian diaspora in Australia?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car:</strong> I have the joy of not only being an Indian, my father came here with his family, I have the joy of representing my own community full of people that are migrating from India making Sydney their home. It is growing faster than any other community in this country focused on education and providing for children.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> <strong>Why should they come to New South Wales for education? And what opportunities do they have in this part of Australia?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car:</strong> Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world. We welcome people coming from India, and emerging industries in Sydney. Right opportunities for university studies. Emerging technologies, a lot of jobs, the sky's the limit for migrants coming. Because of all the students who come over to Australia to study, many of them stay and they have their own families, that's part of why the Indian diaspora is so strong here.</p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see the mobility pact pay-way for the legal migration of Indians to Australia? How do you see that?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car</strong>: We will see the results of a productive relationship; we have seen one of the great friendships between PM Albanese and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have seen some deliverable concrete things have come from that. I would love to be a part of a future seeing them flourish and seeing more developments, especially in education and what we can do together in education.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Are we expecting more name change that brings together the Indian Australian diaspora and also in terms of the names of the location being changed?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car:</strong> I'd be very open to that. There are some parts of my own community/ in my own district that I represent in western Sydney where there are very large migrants.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his successful visit to Australia where he held bilateral discussions with the Australian government over trade, diplomatic and cultural ties.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his successful visit to Australia where he held bilateral discussions with the Australian government over trade, diplomatic and cultural ties. During a community event at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, he received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora and elaborated on how relations between the two countries have grown stronger over the years. Speaking exclusively to WION’s correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Indian-origin Deputy Premier Of New South Wales, Prue Car, reflected on PM Modi's visit to the country and the role Indian diaspora plays in strengthening the relations between the two countries. Here are a few excerpts WION: How do you see the Indian PM's visit to Sydney? Prue Car: I don't think I have seen anything like this in a lifetime. It was a spectacular event. Celebrating PM's arrival. Also importantly, as a member of parliament, celebrate unique relations between both countries. WION: Being someone of Indian origin yourself, how do you see the role of the Indian diaspora in Australia? Prue Car: I have the joy of not only being an Indian, my father came here with his family, I have the joy of representing my own community full of people that are migrating from India making Sydney their home. It is growing faster than any other community in this country focused on education and providing for children. WION: Why should they come to New South Wales for education? And what opportunities do they have in this part of Australia? Prue Car: Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world. We welcome people coming from India, and emerging industries in Sydney. Right opportunities for university studies. Emerging technologies, a lot of jobs, the sky's the limit for migrants coming. Because of all the students who come over to Australia to study, many of them stay and they have their own families, that's part of why the Indian diaspora is so strong here. WION: How do you see the mobility pact pay-way for the legal migration of Indians to Australia? How do you see that? Prue Car: We will see the results of a productive relationship; we have seen one of the great friendships between PM Albanese and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have seen some deliverable concrete things have come from that. I would love to be a part of a future seeing them flourish and seeing more developments, especially in education and what we can do together in education. WION: Are we expecting more name change that brings together the Indian Australian diaspora and also in terms of the names of the location being changed? Prue Car: I'd be very open to that. There are some parts of my own community/ in my own district that I represent in western Sydney where there are very large migrants. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Never seen an event like this', says NSW Deputy Premier on PM Modi's grand welcome in Australia

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at Delhi's Palam airport on Thursday morning, capping off a three-nation trip to Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Australia. PM Modi was greeted warmly at the airport, with crowds chanting 'Modi-Modi' upon his arrival in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Modi&nbsp;addresses&nbsp;the gathering&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On his arrival, the Prime Minister also addressed the crowd at the airport. Addressing people at the airport, PM Modi stated that he used his three-day trip to the best of his ability for the benefit of the country and to make the best decisions possible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Whatever time I could avail while my this 3-day travel, I utilised it in the best possible way for the good of the nation, for taking the best possible decisions for the nation. All the leaders I met..all the personalities I talked to have been so mesmerised and appreciative of India's holding the G20 Presidency this much excellently. This is a matter of great pride for all Indians,” he said.</p>

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<p>PM Modi stated that he praised the nation in front of the world without hesitancy, but with confidence and pride.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The reason behind this is the government you all have chosen with an absolute majority. When I talk, the world doesn't only believe in me, but also believes all 140 crore Indians whom I represent,” he added.</p>

<p>“When I talk about the culture of my country, I look into the eyes of the world. This confidence has come because you have formed a government with an absolute majority in the country. Those who have come here are people who love India, not PM Modi,” said PM Modi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/20-opposition-parties-boycott-inauguration-of-indias-new-parliament-amit-shah-issues-statement-596010">India: 20 opposition parties boycott inauguration of new parliament, Amit Shah issues statement</a></p>

<p>He said Tamil language is our language. It is the language of every Indian. It is the oldest language in the world. I had the opportunity to release the Tok Pisin translation of the book 'Thirukkural' in Papua New Guinea, said PM Modi</p>

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<p>PM Modi also lambasted the opposition for challenging his government's decision to distribute Covid vaccine to foreign nations during the peak of the pandemic &nbsp;The Prime Minister stated that he has received gratitude for distributing Covid vaccination to other countries.</p>

<h2><strong>'Received&nbsp;thanks for supplying&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;vaccine'</strong></h2>

<p>“The people here asked me why I gave the vaccines to the world. I want to say that this is the land of Buddha, Gandhi. We care even for our enemies... Today the world wants to know what India is thinking,” he said.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi today took a veiled jab at the Opposition for their decision to skip the opening of the new Parliament building. &nbsp;Referring to his community engagement in Sydney, PM Modi stated that not only was Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, present, but also the country's former PM and the whole Opposition, all of whom were present for the benefit of their country. He stated that this is the strength of democracy.</p>

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<p>"The Indian diaspora event in Sydney was not only attended by the Australian PM but also by former PM, MPs from opposition parties, and the ruling party. This is the strength of democracy. All of them together participated in this program of the Indian community," said PM Modi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;G20 Kashmir: International delegates indulge in market tours, yoga &amp; golfing</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>JP Nadda&nbsp;garlanded PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>On his arrival at the airport, the Prime Minister was garlanded&nbsp;by BJP National President JP Nadda and party members.</p>

<p>"The way the PM of Papua New Guinea touched your feet, it shows how much respect you have there. People of India feel proud when they see that our PM is being welcomed like this," Nadda said.</p>

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<p>“US President Joe Biden asked for your autograph, this shows how the world is seeing India under your leadership," he added.</p>

<p>Additionally, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the PM of Papua New Guinea said that for him PM Modi is 'Vishwa Guru'. “Australian PM called PM Modi 'The Boss'... Today the world is seeing a new India because of the leadership of PM Modi,” said Jaishankar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at Delhi's Palam airport on Thursday morning, capping off a three-nation trip to Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Australia. PM Modi was greeted warmly at the airport, with crowds chanting 'Modi-Modi' upon his arrival in Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at Delhi's Palam airport on Thursday morning, capping off a three-nation trip to Japan, Papua New Guinea, and Australia. PM Modi was greeted warmly at the airport, with crowds chanting 'Modi-Modi' upon his arrival in Delhi. Modi addresses the gathering On his arrival, the Prime Minister also addressed the crowd at the airport. Addressing people at the airport, PM Modi stated that he used his three-day trip to the best of his ability for the benefit of the country and to make the best decisions possible. “Whatever time I could avail while my this 3-day travel, I utilised it in the best possible way for the good of the nation, for taking the best possible decisions for the nation. All the leaders I met..all the personalities I talked to have been so mesmerised and appreciative of India's holding the G20 Presidency this much excellently. This is a matter of great pride for all Indians,” he said. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Palam airport in Delhi after concluding his three-nation visit to Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia pic.twitter.com/WcaLavtyUY — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2023 × PM Modi stated that he praised the nation in front of the world without hesitancy, but with confidence and pride. “The reason behind this is the government you all have chosen with an absolute majority. When I talk, the world doesn't only believe in me, but also believes all 140 crore Indians whom I represent,” he added. “When I talk about the culture of my country, I look into the eyes of the world. This confidence has come because you have formed a government with an absolute majority in the country. Those who have come here are people who love India, not PM Modi,” said PM Modi. ALSO READ | India: 20 opposition parties boycott inauguration of new parliament, Amit Shah issues statement He said Tamil language is our language. It is the language of every Indian. It is the oldest language in the world. I had the opportunity to release the Tok Pisin translation of the book 'Thirukkural' in Papua New Guinea, said PM Modi #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi receives a warm welcome as people chant 'Modi-Modi' upon his arrival in Delhi after concluding his three-nation visit pic.twitter.com/tvONGNW1AO — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2023 × PM Modi also lambasted the opposition for challenging his government's decision to distribute Covid vaccine to foreign nations during the peak of the pandemic The Prime Minister stated that he has received gratitude for distributing Covid vaccination to other countries. 'Received thanks for supplying Covid vaccine' “The people here asked me why I gave the vaccines to the world. I want to say that this is the land of Buddha, Gandhi. We care even for our enemies... Today the world wants to know what India is thinking,” he said. Prime Minister Modi today took a veiled jab at the Opposition for their decision to skip the opening of the new Parliament building. Referring to his community engagement in Sydney, PM Modi stated that not only was Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, present, but also the country's former PM and the whole Opposition, all of whom were present for the benefit of their country. He stated that this is the strength of democracy. #WATCH | The Indian diaspora event in Sydney was not only attended by the Australian PM but also by former PM, MPs from opposition parties, and the ruling party. This is the strength of democracy. All of them together participated in this program of the Indian community: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/S5ebMs6CsT — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2023 × "The Indian diaspora event in Sydney was not only attended by the Australian PM but also by former PM, MPs from opposition parties, and the ruling party. This is the strength of democracy. All of them together participated in this program of the Indian community," said PM Modi. ALSO WATCH | G20 Kashmir: International delegates indulge in market tours, yoga & golfing JP Nadda garlanded PM Modi On his arrival at the airport, the Prime Minister was garlanded by BJP National President JP Nadda and party members. "The way the PM of Papua New Guinea touched your feet, it shows how much respect you have there. People of India feel proud when they see that our PM is being welcomed like this," Nadda said. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi being garlanded by BJP National President JP Nadda and party members on his arrival at Palam airport after concluding his three-nation visit pic.twitter.com/6K7klH2FQR — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2023 × “US President Joe Biden asked for your autograph, this shows how the world is seeing India under your leadership," he added. Additionally, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the PM of Papua New Guinea said that for him PM Modi is 'Vishwa Guru'. “Australian PM called PM Modi 'The Boss'... Today the world is seeing a new India because of the leadership of PM Modi,” said Jaishankar. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Received thanks for supplying Covid vaccine': PM Modi arrives in Delhi after capping off three-nation tour

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<p>A petition has been&nbsp;filed in the Supreme Court asking "direction, observation, or suggestion" to the Lok Sabha Secretariat that the new Parliament building be officially inaugurated by the president of India.&nbsp;The petitioner further alleged that the Lok Sabha Secretariat broke the law by not inviting the president to the inauguration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The petitioner refers to Article 79 of the Constitution which says that Parliament is made up of the president and the two chambers. It is stated that the president, as the nation's first citizen, has the authority to convene and prorogue parliament sessions.&nbsp;The president appoints the prime minister and other ministers, and all executive acts are conducted in the president's name. According to a report by LiveLaw, not inviting the president to the event is a humiliation and a breach of the Constitution.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi to inaugurate the new Parliament building</strong></h2>

<p>This comes just a few days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that the newly built Parliament building would be inaugurated&nbsp;on Sunday. Last Thursday, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and invited him to the inauguration of the new Parliament building.</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;a Lok Sabha release, the new Parliament building in the national capital has been completed and "symbolises the spirit of self-reliance in India".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/received-thanks-for-supplying-covid-vaccine-pm-modi-arrives-in-delhi-after-capping-off-three-nation-tour-596189">'Received&nbsp;thanks for supplying&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;vaccine': PM Modi arrives in Delhi after capping off three-nation tour</a></p>

<p>"The lack of space was being experienced in the current building as per the present requirements. In both the Houses, there was also&nbsp;a lack of convenient arrangements for the sitting of the MPs which was affecting the efficiency of the work of the members," the release said.</p>

<p>The current Parliament building was erected in 1927, making it about 100 years old.</p>

<p>The Centre has invited all present members of both houses of Parliament, as well as ministers, secretaries, chief ministers, and administrators of union territories for the inauguration.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition plans boycott</strong></h2>

<p>However, as many as 20 parties have voiced their intention to boycott the event, including the Congress, CPI, AAP, and Trinamool Congress.</p>

<p>In a joint statement, the opposition parties said, “The inauguration of a new Parliament building is a momentous occasion. Despite our belief that the government is threatening democracy, and our disapproval of the autocratic manner in which the new Parliament was built, we were open to sinking our differences and marking this occasion. However, Prime Minister Modi’s decision to inaugurate the new Parliament building himself, completely sidelining President Murmu, is not only a grave insult but a direct assault on our democracy which demands a commensurate response."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court asking "direction, observation, or suggestion" to the Lok Sabha Secretariat that the new Parliament building be officially inaugurated by the president of India.

A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court asking "direction, observation, or suggestion" to the Lok Sabha Secretariat that the new Parliament building be officially inaugurated by the president of India. The petitioner further alleged that the Lok Sabha Secretariat broke the law by not inviting the president to the inauguration. The petitioner refers to Article 79 of the Constitution which says that Parliament is made up of the president and the two chambers. It is stated that the president, as the nation's first citizen, has the authority to convene and prorogue parliament sessions. The president appoints the prime minister and other ministers, and all executive acts are conducted in the president's name. According to a report by LiveLaw, not inviting the president to the event is a humiliation and a breach of the Constitution. PM Modi to inaugurate the new Parliament building This comes just a few days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that the newly built Parliament building would be inaugurated on Sunday. Last Thursday, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and invited him to the inauguration of the new Parliament building. As per a Lok Sabha release, the new Parliament building in the national capital has been completed and "symbolises the spirit of self-reliance in India". ALSO READ | 'Received thanks for supplying Covid vaccine': PM Modi arrives in Delhi after capping off three-nation tour "The lack of space was being experienced in the current building as per the present requirements. In both the Houses, there was also a lack of convenient arrangements for the sitting of the MPs which was affecting the efficiency of the work of the members," the release said. The current Parliament building was erected in 1927, making it about 100 years old. The Centre has invited all present members of both houses of Parliament, as well as ministers, secretaries, chief ministers, and administrators of union territories for the inauguration. Opposition plans boycott However, as many as 20 parties have voiced their intention to boycott the event, including the Congress, CPI, AAP, and Trinamool Congress. In a joint statement, the opposition parties said, “The inauguration of a new Parliament building is a momentous occasion. Despite our belief that the government is threatening democracy, and our disapproval of the autocratic manner in which the new Parliament was built, we were open to sinking our differences and marking this occasion. However, Prime Minister Modi’s decision to inaugurate the new Parliament building himself, completely sidelining President Murmu, is not only a grave insult but a direct assault on our democracy which demands a commensurate response." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New Parliament row: PIL filed in top court seeking inauguration by President Murmu

India's longest bridge, the under-construction Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, is likely to be open to the public towards the end of this year. Authorities have told that 95 percent of the work has been completed. WION tells you more in this report.

Mumbai Trans Harbour Link: India's longest sea bridge expected to be operational by year end

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