Ahead of the inauguration of Kartarpur Corridor on November 9, India has reiterated its concerns over looming terror threats and possible use of the corridor for anti-India activity.

"Our security is very conscious of pitfalls, we made sure there is no compromise on the security of corridor," government sources told ANI.

India is concerned that Sikhs for Justice, Lashkar-e-Taiba and other terror outfits may use the corridor for propagating and orchestrating anti-India activities and may run nefarious campaigns like Referendum 2020.

New Delhi is miffed to see the use of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwala poster in official Kartarpur video produced by the Government of Pakistan and has raised the issue with Islamabad through diplomatic channels.

The government sources here believe that Kartarpur Corridor is promoted by Pakistan Army. Its construction affiliate, Frontier Works, took over the project and has completed the work at zipping speed of less than a year, a source explained and added that the underlying motive of the project for Pakistan is to promote Khalistani movement, to have some leverage over Punjab and propagate Referendum 2020 agenda.

On the face, the stated objective is to present a softer, secular image of Pakistan.

Govt sources said this fake mask of Pakistan has often slipped when they referred project as 'Chess game'&nbsp;and 'Googlie'. Pulwama attack happened and abrogation of Article 370 happened after which Pakistan stoked up anti-India rhetoric, but it did not let Karatarpur get derailed and it survived.

This shows the strategy and resolve of the Pakistan Army about the project, a source said.

However, according to the government sources, India believes this initiative is a positive step and it has entered into it with open eyes as the decision is driven keeping in mind the sentiments of Sikhs in India, despite concerns.

India is well equipped to handle the situation and will be able to fight big propaganda machine of Pakistan which is trying to create a wedge in Indian society and also between the Centre and state, government sources said.

While Pakistan has assured safety and security of Indians at Kartarpur Corridor, government sources said they will wait and watch.

Kartarpur Corridor will be opened on November 9.

India has given the list of dignitaries who will be crossing over to Kartarpur. The 'Jatha'&nbsp;includes former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, former chief minister Sukhbir Badal, Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and more than 150 Members of Parliament and prominent Indians.

No confirmation of the approved list has come from Pakistan yet. Islamabad has also not allowed Indian advance security and protocol team to visit the site as this is a normal practice and well-known procedure before VVIP visits.

Pakistan has also not shared minute details of programme and is not following the Kartarpur agreement spirit.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, without mutually consulting India, tweeted that pilgrims don't require a passport. This has created confusion here and clarification has been sought which has not come till date.

Kartarpur Corridor will connect Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district with Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the corridor on the Indian side.

India and Pakistan had on October 24 signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, paving the way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of the Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the inauguration of Kartarpur Corridor on November 9, India has reiterated its concerns over looming terror threats and possible use of the corridor for anti-India activity.

Ahead of the inauguration of Kartarpur Corridor on November 9, India has reiterated its concerns over looming terror threats and possible use of the corridor for anti-India activity. "Our security is very conscious of pitfalls, we made sure there is no compromise on the security of corridor," government sources told ANI. India is concerned that Sikhs for Justice, Lashkar-e-Taiba and other terror outfits may use the corridor for propagating and orchestrating anti-India activities and may run nefarious campaigns like Referendum 2020. New Delhi is miffed to see the use of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwala poster in official Kartarpur video produced by the Government of Pakistan and has raised the issue with Islamabad through diplomatic channels. The government sources here believe that Kartarpur Corridor is promoted by Pakistan Army. Its construction affiliate, Frontier Works, took over the project and has completed the work at zipping speed of less than a year, a source explained and added that the underlying motive of the project for Pakistan is to promote Khalistani movement, to have some leverage over Punjab and propagate Referendum 2020 agenda. On the face, the stated objective is to present a softer, secular image of Pakistan. Govt sources said this fake mask of Pakistan has often slipped when they referred project as 'Chess game' and 'Googlie'. Pulwama attack happened and abrogation of Article 370 happened after which Pakistan stoked up anti-India rhetoric, but it did not let Karatarpur get derailed and it survived. This shows the strategy and resolve of the Pakistan Army about the project, a source said. However, according to the government sources, India believes this initiative is a positive step and it has entered into it with open eyes as the decision is driven keeping in mind the sentiments of Sikhs in India, despite concerns. India is well equipped to handle the situation and will be able to fight big propaganda machine of Pakistan which is trying to create a wedge in Indian society and also between the Centre and state, government sources said. While Pakistan has assured safety and security of Indians at Kartarpur Corridor, government sources said they will wait and watch. Kartarpur Corridor will be opened on November 9. India has given the list of dignitaries who will be crossing over to Kartarpur. The 'Jatha' includes former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, former chief minister Sukhbir Badal, Union Ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Harsimrat Kaur Badal, and more than 150 Members of Parliament and prominent Indians. No confirmation of the approved list has come from Pakistan yet. Islamabad has also not allowed Indian advance security and protocol team to visit the site as this is a normal practice and well-known procedure before VVIP visits. Pakistan has also not shared minute details of programme and is not following the Kartarpur agreement spirit. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, without mutually consulting India, tweeted that pilgrims don't require a passport. This has created confusion here and clarification has been sought which has not come till date. Kartarpur Corridor will connect Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district with Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the corridor on the Indian side. India and Pakistan had on October 24 signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, paving the way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of the Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev. The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.

India concerned about Kartarpur Corridor security, Pakistan's underlying designs

Pak cabinet approves Kartarpur waivers; No service fee on 9th & 12th Nov. Watch video to know more.

Pak cabinet approves Kartarpur waivers; No service fee on 9th & 12th Nov

Before the inauguration ceremony of the Kartarpur Gurudwara corridor, a fresh controversy has erupted after Pakistan released a video welcoming Sikh pilgrims to Kartarpur in which pictures of three slain Khalistani separatists are to be seen.&nbsp;

In the video, posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, Major General Shabeg Singh and Amrik Singh Khalsa, all of whom were involved in the failed attempt to separate Indian state Punjab, can be seen. The separatists demanded a separate land for Sikhs by the name of Khalistan. All three separatists were killed by Indian forces in Operation Blue Star in Golden Temple in June 1984.&nbsp;

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"All this is what I have been warning about since day one, that Pakistan has a hidden agenda here," Punjab CM Amarinder Singh said on the video from Pakistan. However, officials from Pakistan are yet to respond&nbsp;to the video.

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Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Khalistani separatist Jarnail Bhindranwale featured in Pakistan Govt's official video on Kartarpur corridor: All this is what I have been warning about since day one, that Pakistan has a hidden agenda here. <a href="https://t.co/xh5v4jsGle">pic.twitter.com/xh5v4jsGle</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1191985150818578433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The video was released by Pakistan's information and broadcasting ministry.

The video has surfaced days before both India and Pakistan will inaugurate the Kartarpur gurudwara corridor. The Indian side of the corridor will be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on November 8 while the Pakistan PM will open the Pakistani side of the route the very next day.&nbsp;

The Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan holds a special significance in the hearts of Sikh pilgrims as their first religious leader, Guru Nanak Dev spent his last 18 years here. The Kartarpur corridor connects Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur (Pakistan) and Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur (India). Last year, both sides agreed to inaugurate this corridor on the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Before the inauguration ceremony of the Kartarpur Gurudwara corridor, a fresh controversy has erupted after Pakistan released a video welcoming Sikh pilgrims to Kartarpur in which pictures of three slain Khalistani separatists are to be seen.

Before the inauguration ceremony of the Kartarpur Gurudwara corridor, a fresh controversy has erupted after Pakistan released a video welcoming Sikh pilgrims to Kartarpur in which pictures of three slain Khalistani separatists are to be seen. In the video, posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, Major General Shabeg Singh and Amrik Singh Khalsa, all of whom were involved in the failed attempt to separate Indian state Punjab, can be seen. The separatists demanded a separate land for Sikhs by the name of Khalistan. All three separatists were killed by Indian forces in Operation Blue Star in Golden Temple in June 1984. "All this is what I have been warning about since day one, that Pakistan has a hidden agenda here," Punjab CM Amarinder Singh said on the video from Pakistan. However, officials from Pakistan are yet to respond to the video. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Khalistani separatist Jarnail Bhindranwale featured in Pakistan Govt's official video on Kartarpur corridor: All this is what I have been warning about since day one, that Pakistan has a hidden agenda here. pic.twitter.com/xh5v4jsGle — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2019 × The video was released by Pakistan's information and broadcasting ministry. The video has surfaced days before both India and Pakistan will inaugurate the Kartarpur gurudwara corridor. The Indian side of the corridor will be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on November 8 while the Pakistan PM will open the Pakistani side of the route the very next day. The Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan holds a special significance in the hearts of Sikh pilgrims as their first religious leader, Guru Nanak Dev spent his last 18 years here. The Kartarpur corridor connects Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur (Pakistan) and Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur (India). Last year, both sides agreed to inaugurate this corridor on the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Pakistan releases Kartarpur corridor video featuring Khalistani separatists

India is yet to receive a confirmation from Pakistan on a list of prominent Sikh leaders and other dignitaries who are part of the inaugural 'jatha'&nbsp;visiting Gurudwara Darbar Sahib through the Kartarpur corridor on November 9, government sources said on Tuesday.

Sources added that Pakistan has not yet allowed any team from India to visit Kartarpur Sahib in advance to confirm the arrangements made for the inaugural jatha. In addition, the country has unilaterally decided the programme and timing of the pilgrims without taking into account India's inputs in the matter.

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said last week that India has shared the list of people visiting the Gurudwara with Pakistan so as to seek visas for them."Pakistan tries to project that it is trying to facilitate Sikh pilgrimage, and we have not heard from them. In fact, we hear that the visas will not be granted. We feel that it is disrespect to the sentiments of Sikh pilgrims, especially on this pious occasion of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak," Kumar had said.

Sources added that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's tweet stating that no passports will be required to undertake the pilgrimage has created confusion among the pilgrims as to what documents they should carry as the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in this regard mentions the requirement of carrying passports.

In addition, no offer has been made by Pakistan to amend the MoU in light of Khan's tweet.

Critical information such as medical facilities available and security arrangements for the pilgrims have also not been shared with India yet. India has all along remained strongly committed to expeditiously realize the Kartarpur corridor on time, keeping in mind the sentiments of the pilgrims.

The construction work on India's side has been completed on time, and New Delhi even agreed to go ahead with the MoU despite Pakistan's insistence on levying a $20 service fee on the pilgrims.

Pakistan's refusal to extend full cooperation with India in the matter is against the spirit of pilgrimage, sources said.

India and Pakistan had signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising Kartarpur Sahib corridor on October 24, paving the way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

India is yet to receive a confirmation from Pakistan on a list of prominent Sikh leaders and other dignitaries who are part of the inaugural 'jatha' visiting Gurudwara Darbar Sahib through the Kartarpur corridor on November 9, government sources said on Tuesday.

India is yet to receive a confirmation from Pakistan on a list of prominent Sikh leaders and other dignitaries who are part of the inaugural 'jatha' visiting Gurudwara Darbar Sahib through the Kartarpur corridor on November 9, government sources said on Tuesday. Sources added that Pakistan has not yet allowed any team from India to visit Kartarpur Sahib in advance to confirm the arrangements made for the inaugural jatha. In addition, the country has unilaterally decided the programme and timing of the pilgrims without taking into account India's inputs in the matter. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said last week that India has shared the list of people visiting the Gurudwara with Pakistan so as to seek visas for them."Pakistan tries to project that it is trying to facilitate Sikh pilgrimage, and we have not heard from them. In fact, we hear that the visas will not be granted. We feel that it is disrespect to the sentiments of Sikh pilgrims, especially on this pious occasion of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak," Kumar had said. Sources added that Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's tweet stating that no passports will be required to undertake the pilgrimage has created confusion among the pilgrims as to what documents they should carry as the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in this regard mentions the requirement of carrying passports. In addition, no offer has been made by Pakistan to amend the MoU in light of Khan's tweet. Critical information such as medical facilities available and security arrangements for the pilgrims have also not been shared with India yet. India has all along remained strongly committed to expeditiously realize the Kartarpur corridor on time, keeping in mind the sentiments of the pilgrims. The construction work on India's side has been completed on time, and New Delhi even agreed to go ahead with the MoU despite Pakistan's insistence on levying a $20 service fee on the pilgrims. Pakistan's refusal to extend full cooperation with India in the matter is against the spirit of pilgrimage, sources said. India and Pakistan had signed an agreement on the modalities for operationalising Kartarpur Sahib corridor on October 24, paving the way for its inauguration ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

India yet to receive confirmation from Pakistan on list of inaugural 'jatha' visiting Kartarpur Sahib

With just three days left before the opening of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/siddhant-sibbal-on-terror-camps-spotted-near-kartarpur-259842">Kartarpur corridor</a> on November 9, Pakistan is yet to allow the visit of Indian advance teams to Kartarpur Gurudwara to check the arrangements that have been made and also hasn't given confirmation to the list New Delhi had sent of prominent Indian Sikh leaders who are part of the inaugural jatha.&nbsp;

Sources said Pakistan refused to "extend full cooperation" which is against the "spirit of pilgrimage" and this "despite Pakistan's insistence" on levying $20 service fee on the pilgrims.

India had shared the list of 575 pilgrims which will go in the inaugural jatha to the Kartarpur Sahib and includes former PM Dr Manmohan Singh, Union Ministers Hardeep Puri and Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab Chief Minister Amrinder Singh and several MPs and MLAs from Punjab.

Islamabad has made a number of arrangements for the opening of Kartarpur corridor on its side which will be inaugurated by Pakistan PM Imran Khan but government sources said, "Pakistan has unilaterally decided on the programme and timing of the inaugural jatha" without taking input from the Indian side.

In fact, Islamabad hasn't even shared critical information like availability of medical facilities and security arrangements of pilgrims, Indian government sources said.&nbsp;

This comes even as Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in a tweet last week said Sikh pilgrims coming from India for a pilgrimage to Kartarpur are not required to carry passports but only valid ID and won't be required to register ten days in advance.&nbsp;

Sources said this has created confusion since, in the MOU signed in October, the passport was a necessary requirement and Islamabad hasn't bothered to get back to India after Imran Khan's tweet announcement leading to confusion among the pilgrims.

Last year both India and Pakistan had agreed on the opening of the Kartarpur corridor to the Kartarpur Gurudwara on the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji. Founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Devji, spent the last 18 years of his life in the Gurudwara which is just a few kilometres away from the International border with India.&nbsp;

With just three days left before the opening of the Kartarpur corridor on November 9, Pakistan is yet to allow the visit of Indian advance teams to Kartarpur Gurudwara to check the arrangements that have been made and also hasn't given confirmation to the list New Delhi had sent of prominent Indian Sikh leaders who are part of the inaugural jatha.

With just three days left before the opening of the Kartarpur corridor on November 9, Pakistan is yet to allow the visit of Indian advance teams to Kartarpur Gurudwara to check the arrangements that have been made and also hasn't given confirmation to the list New Delhi had sent of prominent Indian Sikh leaders who are part of the inaugural jatha. Sources said Pakistan refused to "extend full cooperation" which is against the "spirit of pilgrimage" and this "despite Pakistan's insistence" on levying $20 service fee on the pilgrims. India had shared the list of 575 pilgrims which will go in the inaugural jatha to the Kartarpur Sahib and includes former PM Dr Manmohan Singh, Union Ministers Hardeep Puri and Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab Chief Minister Amrinder Singh and several MPs and MLAs from Punjab. Islamabad has made a number of arrangements for the opening of Kartarpur corridor on its side which will be inaugurated by Pakistan PM Imran Khan but government sources said, "Pakistan has unilaterally decided on the programme and timing of the inaugural jatha" without taking input from the Indian side. In fact, Islamabad hasn't even shared critical information like availability of medical facilities and security arrangements of pilgrims, Indian government sources said. This comes even as Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in a tweet last week said Sikh pilgrims coming from India for a pilgrimage to Kartarpur are not required to carry passports but only valid ID and won't be required to register ten days in advance. Sources said this has created confusion since, in the MOU signed in October, the passport was a necessary requirement and Islamabad hasn't bothered to get back to India after Imran Khan's tweet announcement leading to confusion among the pilgrims. Last year both India and Pakistan had agreed on the opening of the Kartarpur corridor to the Kartarpur Gurudwara on the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji. Founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Devji, spent the last 18 years of his life in the Gurudwara which is just a few kilometres away from the International border with India.

Kartarpur corridor: Pakistan fails to allow visit of Indian advance team

Terrorist training activities have spotted by Intelligence agencies in the border district of Narowal in Pakistan’s Punjab province, the same district where Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara is situated.

WION's Siddhant Sibbal on terror camps spotted near Kartarpur village

Pakistan has waived the entry fee for only two days, for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-invitees-to-kartarpur-corridor-inaugural-ceremony-will-have-to-seek-political-clearance-mea-259094">Indian pilgrims travelling to Kartarpur Gurdwara</a> to commemorate 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. No fee will be charged on the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev and on the day of inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor.

In a tweet, Khan said he has waived two requirements for Indian pilgrims visiting Kartarpur---they won't need a passport just a valid ID and no advance booking is required.

"For Sikhs coming for a pilgrimage to Kartarpur from India, I have waived 2 requirements: i) they won't need a passport - just a valid ID; ii) they no longer have to register 10 days in advance. Also, no fee will be charged on the day of inauguration &amp; on Guruji's 550th birthday," Khan tweeted.

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For Sikhs coming for pilgrimage to Kartarpur from India, I have waived off 2 requirements: i) they wont need a passport - just a valid ID; ii) they no longer have to register 10 days in advance. Also, no fee will be charged on day of inauguration &amp; on Guruji's 550th birthday
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1190087955588755456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has repeatedly condemned the $20 service charge proposed by Pakistan on Indian pilgrims travelling to Kartarpur Gurdwara.

Last week, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-invites-navjot-singh-sidhu-to-kartarpur-corridors-inaugural-ceremony-258874">India and Pakistan</a> signed the much-awaited agreement for operationalising Kartarpur Corridor on "zero lines" on the border, just weeks ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Watch: India and Pakistan sign Kartarpur Corridor agreement at 'Zero Point'

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The two sides met on "zero lines" on the border and signed the agreement. The Indian delegation was led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in the Home Ministry and the Pakistani delegation by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mohammed Faisal.

Pakistan did not agree to India's demand to make the Kartapur Gurdwara's visit, charge-free.

Following the low-key ceremony to sign the agreement, New Delhi had expressed disappointment on Pakistan's refusal to waive $20 service charge on Indians visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara and urged Islamabad to reconsider its decision given the "religious and spiritual sentiments" of the pilgrims.

According to the home ministry, the agreement, which lays a formal framework for operationalising the corridor, stated that Indian pilgrims of all faiths and persons of Indian origin can use the corridor.

The travel will be visa-free and pilgrims need to carry only a valid passport. Persons of Indian Origin need to carry OCI card along with the passport of their country.

Addressing the media, Faisal had then announced that under the agreement, the Indian authorities will provide a list of pilgrims 10 days ahead of their visit.

The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev. Both countries will hold events to mark the opening of their sections of the corridor.

The foundation stone for the Kartarpur corridor was laid down on the Indian side on November 26, 2018. Two days later the foundation stone was laid on the Pakistani side.

Pakistan has waived the entry fee for only two days, for Indian pilgrims travelling to Kartarpur Gurdwara to commemorate 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Pakistan has waived the entry fee for only two days, for Indian pilgrims travelling to Kartarpur Gurdwara to commemorate 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. No fee will be charged on the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev and on the day of inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor. In a tweet, Khan said he has waived two requirements for Indian pilgrims visiting Kartarpur---they won't need a passport just a valid ID and no advance booking is required. "For Sikhs coming for a pilgrimage to Kartarpur from India, I have waived 2 requirements: i) they won't need a passport - just a valid ID; ii) they no longer have to register 10 days in advance. Also, no fee will be charged on the day of inauguration & on Guruji's 550th birthday," Khan tweeted. For Sikhs coming for pilgrimage to Kartarpur from India, I have waived off 2 requirements: i) they wont need a passport - just a valid ID; ii) they no longer have to register 10 days in advance. Also, no fee will be charged on day of inauguration & on Guruji's 550th birthday — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 1, 2019 × India has repeatedly condemned the $20 service charge proposed by Pakistan on Indian pilgrims travelling to Kartarpur Gurdwara. Last week, India and Pakistan signed the much-awaited agreement for operationalising Kartarpur Corridor on "zero lines" on the border, just weeks ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. Watch: India and Pakistan sign Kartarpur Corridor agreement at 'Zero Point' × The two sides met on "zero lines" on the border and signed the agreement. The Indian delegation was led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in the Home Ministry and the Pakistani delegation by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mohammed Faisal. Pakistan did not agree to India's demand to make the Kartapur Gurdwara's visit, charge-free. Following the low-key ceremony to sign the agreement, New Delhi had expressed disappointment on Pakistan's refusal to waive $20 service charge on Indians visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara and urged Islamabad to reconsider its decision given the "religious and spiritual sentiments" of the pilgrims. According to the home ministry, the agreement, which lays a formal framework for operationalising the corridor, stated that Indian pilgrims of all faiths and persons of Indian origin can use the corridor. The travel will be visa-free and pilgrims need to carry only a valid passport. Persons of Indian Origin need to carry OCI card along with the passport of their country. Addressing the media, Faisal had then announced that under the agreement, the Indian authorities will provide a list of pilgrims 10 days ahead of their visit. The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev. Both countries will hold events to mark the opening of their sections of the corridor. The foundation stone for the Kartarpur corridor was laid down on the Indian side on November 26, 2018. Two days later the foundation stone was laid on the Pakistani side.

Pakistan waives entry fee for two days on pilgrims visitng Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara

India and Pakistan on Thursday signed the operationalising modalities agreement for the Kartarpur Corridor, paving the way for its&nbsp;inauguration and&nbsp;to allow Indian pilgrims to visit the holy shrine throughout the year.

The agreement was signed by Joint Secretary in the ministry of home affairs SCL Das and Foreign Service official Mohammad Faisal from Pakistan.

The two sides met on "zero line" on the border and signed the agreement.&nbsp;

Officials of the two countries met for a few minutes where Das and Faisal shook hands and signed the agreement.

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The historic moment when India and Pakistan signed the agreement on Kartarpur Corridor <a href="https://t.co/M24VUBpNt1">pic.twitter.com/M24VUBpNt1</a>
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1187276497037361152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

The corridor will also be the first visa-free connectivity between the two neighbours.&nbsp;

However, Indian pilgrims will be required to pay USD 20 for visiting the Karatarpur Sahib Gurdwara through the corridor. India has repeatedly urged Pakistan not to impose the charges.&nbsp;

The corridor connects the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan. Both countries will hold events to mark the opening of their sections of the corridor.

India and Pakistan have held a series of high-level talks for operationalizing the corridor ahead of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev.&nbsp;

The foundation stone for the Kartarpur corridor was laid down on the Indian side on November 26, 2018. Two days later, the foundation stone was laid on the Pakistani side.

(With inputs from ANI)

India and Pakistan on Thursday signed the operationalising modalities agreement for the Kartarpur Corridor, paving the way for its inauguration and to allow Indian pilgrims to visit the holy shrine throughout the year.

India and Pakistan on Thursday signed the operationalising modalities agreement for the Kartarpur Corridor, paving the way for its inauguration and to allow Indian pilgrims to visit the holy shrine throughout the year. The agreement was signed by Joint Secretary in the ministry of home affairs SCL Das and Foreign Service official Mohammad Faisal from Pakistan. The two sides met on "zero line" on the border and signed the agreement. Officials of the two countries met for a few minutes where Das and Faisal shook hands and signed the agreement. The historic moment when India and Pakistan signed the agreement on Kartarpur Corridor pic.twitter.com/M24VUBpNt1 — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) October 24, 2019 × The corridor will facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev. The corridor will also be the first visa-free connectivity between the two neighbours. However, Indian pilgrims will be required to pay USD 20 for visiting the Karatarpur Sahib Gurdwara through the corridor. India has repeatedly urged Pakistan not to impose the charges. The corridor connects the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan. Both countries will hold events to mark the opening of their sections of the corridor. India and Pakistan have held a series of high-level talks for operationalizing the corridor ahead of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev. The foundation stone for the Kartarpur corridor was laid down on the Indian side on November 26, 2018. Two days later, the foundation stone was laid on the Pakistani side. (With inputs from ANI)

India, Pakistan sign agreement to operationalise Kartarpur corridor

Over 90 heads of foreign missions in India embarked on a visit to Amritsar's Golden Temple on Tuesday to take part in celebrations to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe are accompanying the heads of missions.

The group of diplomats includes ambassadors of Australia, Magnolia, Murako, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Myanmar Maldives, Nepal, and Srilanka. Deputy Chief of US Missions is also present.&nbsp;

The visit is being organised by the ICCR in collaboration with the state government of Punjab and the Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee.

It was organised after the union cabinet decided to celebrate the occasion in a grand manner throughout the country and across the globe, according to an official statement.

Over 90 heads of foreign missions in India embarked on a visit to Amritsar's Golden Temple on Tuesday to take part in celebrations to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Over 90 heads of foreign missions in India embarked on a visit to Amritsar's Golden Temple on Tuesday to take part in celebrations to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) president Vinay Sahasrabuddhe are accompanying the heads of missions. The group of diplomats includes ambassadors of Australia, Magnolia, Murako, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Myanmar Maldives, Nepal, and Srilanka. Deputy Chief of US Missions is also present. The visit is being organised by the ICCR in collaboration with the state government of Punjab and the Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee. It was organised after the union cabinet decided to celebrate the occasion in a grand manner throughout the country and across the globe, according to an official statement.

Heads of over 90 foreign missions in India to visit Golden Temple today 

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday urged Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan to take back proposed service charge of US $20 for each visiting pilgrim to Kartarpur Sahib and said if the neighbouring country, which is facing financial crisis, needs the money invested there in the development of the Sikhs shrine, the Sikhs will transfer the amount.

"It is very sad that in the name of pilgrimage services, the Pakistan government is charging `jazia` (a tax on non-Muslims) of US $20 for each devotee visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara. If you calculate together, it will be around Rs 255 crore annually, the amount Pakistani government would be getting through this. I appeal Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan Sahib. Please don`t charge this," BJP National Secretary R P Singh told ANI.

He said the proposed Pakistani service charge of US $20 a visitor was against the basic spirit of Sikh ideology and Imran Khan should understand it.

"I have been told that they invested money in Kartarpur Sahib. Let us know one time the amount you invested there. We would request SGPC to open an escrow account. And Sikhs will send the money to you," Singh, a prominent Sikh face of BJP in Delhi said.

He said the devotees wishing to visit Kartarpur are not only Sikhs but Sindhis and from other religious communities and there are many who can`t even afford $20.

"We know that you need money. We know your government is in financial crisis. Let us know how much money you have invested in Kartarpur Sahib Corridor or how much money you need for its maintenance. Let us know. We would make a request to SGPC. Money can be transferred to Pakistan government," said Singh.

Calling the service charge as "jazia tax", the BJP leader said he will write a letter to Imran Khan requesting "please don`t charge this tax".

Singh also slammed Congress and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for missing the opportunity to barter over 90,000 Pakistani prisoners of war in 1971 for Kartarpur Sahib and said, even Nankana Sahib could have been brought to Indian side on this account.

"Sikhs at large pray that all those places left behind Pakistan should get the opportunity to visit there. But the people who decided demarcation at that time did not think of it. Not only that, in 1971, when over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers were with us, we could have decided to bring Kartarpur Sahib to our side," he said.

"Even Nankana Sahib could have been brought to our side. Indira Gandhi could have taken a call and could have barter that soldiers for Kartarpur Sahib and Nankana Sahib. The rulers that time didn`t think of it. We are thankful to PM Modi who has taken initiative to for Kartarpur Sahib," he added.

In 1971, India won the war against Pakistan that resulted in the birth of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan). On August 2, 1972, India and Pakistan signed the Shimla Agreement under which India agreed to release all the 93,000 Pakistani prisoners of war. It was also the largest military surrender after World War II.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday urged Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan to take back proposed service charge of US $20 for each visiting pilgrim to Kartarpur Sahib and said if the neighbouring country, which is facing financial crisis, needs the money invested there in the development of the Sikhs shrine, the Sikhs will transfer the amount.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday urged Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan to take back proposed service charge of US $20 for each visiting pilgrim to Kartarpur Sahib and said if the neighbouring country, which is facing financial crisis, needs the money invested there in the development of the Sikhs shrine, the Sikhs will transfer the amount. "It is very sad that in the name of pilgrimage services, the Pakistan government is charging `jazia` (a tax on non-Muslims) of US $20 for each devotee visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara. If you calculate together, it will be around Rs 255 crore annually, the amount Pakistani government would be getting through this. I appeal Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan Sahib. Please don`t charge this," BJP National Secretary R P Singh told ANI. He said the proposed Pakistani service charge of US $20 a visitor was against the basic spirit of Sikh ideology and Imran Khan should understand it. "I have been told that they invested money in Kartarpur Sahib. Let us know one time the amount you invested there. We would request SGPC to open an escrow account. And Sikhs will send the money to you," Singh, a prominent Sikh face of BJP in Delhi said. He said the devotees wishing to visit Kartarpur are not only Sikhs but Sindhis and from other religious communities and there are many who can`t even afford $20. "We know that you need money. We know your government is in financial crisis. Let us know how much money you have invested in Kartarpur Sahib Corridor or how much money you need for its maintenance. Let us know. We would make a request to SGPC. Money can be transferred to Pakistan government," said Singh. Calling the service charge as "jazia tax", the BJP leader said he will write a letter to Imran Khan requesting "please don`t charge this tax". Singh also slammed Congress and former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for missing the opportunity to barter over 90,000 Pakistani prisoners of war in 1971 for Kartarpur Sahib and said, even Nankana Sahib could have been brought to Indian side on this account. "Sikhs at large pray that all those places left behind Pakistan should get the opportunity to visit there. But the people who decided demarcation at that time did not think of it. Not only that, in 1971, when over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers were with us, we could have decided to bring Kartarpur Sahib to our side," he said. "Even Nankana Sahib could have been brought to our side. Indira Gandhi could have taken a call and could have barter that soldiers for Kartarpur Sahib and Nankana Sahib. The rulers that time didn`t think of it. We are thankful to PM Modi who has taken initiative to for Kartarpur Sahib," he added. In 1971, India won the war against Pakistan that resulted in the birth of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan). On August 2, 1972, India and Pakistan signed the Shimla Agreement under which India agreed to release all the 93,000 Pakistani prisoners of war. It was also the largest military surrender after World War II.

Don't charge jazia tax, if you need money, Sikhs will send to Pakistan government : BJP leader RP Singh to Imran Khan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the Congress over India not having a corridor connecting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan for seven decades and also over the key pilgrimage centre linked to Guru Nanak Dev being allowed to be in the neighbouring country during partition though it was only about four kilometres away from the international border.

Addressing an election rally at Ellenabad in Sirsa district, Modi said the distance between the holy place and the pilgrims will end through the corridor to be inaugurated next month and it had taken 70 years to do so.

"The distance between us and the holy place of our guru Kartarpur Sahib is going to end. The opportunity has come after seven decades. Seventy years have gone. What can be a bigger misfortune that we had to see the big centre of our faith through binoculars for seven decades," he said.

"Those responsible for deciding the boundary in 1947, did they not think that the devotees and the Guru should not be separated by four kilometres. After this, should Congress not have tried to remove the distance in the last 70 years?" Modi asked.

The Prime Minister stated that the Central government is planning to celebrate this event around the world and a national highway will now be known as Guru Nanak Dev Marg.

"The BJP government is making efforts to familiarise the world with the historic occasion of 550th Prakash Parv. The national highway constructed between Kapurthala and Goindwal Sahib near Tarn Taran will now be known as Guru Nanak Devji Marg," Modi said.

He alleged that the Congress and its allies had not given respect to India`s traditions.

"Congress and its allies have never given respect to the faith, traditions and culture of the Indians. The approach of Congress towards our places of worship, it is their same approach with Jammu-Kashmir. They kept on complicating the problems and did not make an honest attempt to solve them," Modi said.

The rally was held on the last day of campaign for assembly polls in Haryana.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the Congress over India not having a corridor connecting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan for seven decades and also over the key pilgrimage centre linked to Guru Nanak Dev being allowed to be in the neighbouring country during partition though it was only about four kilometres away from the international border.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the Congress over India not having a corridor connecting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan for seven decades and also over the key pilgrimage centre linked to Guru Nanak Dev being allowed to be in the neighbouring country during partition though it was only about four kilometres away from the international border. Addressing an election rally at Ellenabad in Sirsa district, Modi said the distance between the holy place and the pilgrims will end through the corridor to be inaugurated next month and it had taken 70 years to do so. "The distance between us and the holy place of our guru Kartarpur Sahib is going to end. The opportunity has come after seven decades. Seventy years have gone. What can be a bigger misfortune that we had to see the big centre of our faith through binoculars for seven decades," he said. "Those responsible for deciding the boundary in 1947, did they not think that the devotees and the Guru should not be separated by four kilometres. After this, should Congress not have tried to remove the distance in the last 70 years?" Modi asked. The Prime Minister stated that the Central government is planning to celebrate this event around the world and a national highway will now be known as Guru Nanak Dev Marg. "The BJP government is making efforts to familiarise the world with the historic occasion of 550th Prakash Parv. The national highway constructed between Kapurthala and Goindwal Sahib near Tarn Taran will now be known as Guru Nanak Devji Marg," Modi said. He alleged that the Congress and its allies had not given respect to India`s traditions. "Congress and its allies have never given respect to the faith, traditions and culture of the Indians. The approach of Congress towards our places of worship, it is their same approach with Jammu-Kashmir. They kept on complicating the problems and did not make an honest attempt to solve them," Modi said. The rally was held on the last day of campaign for assembly polls in Haryana.

PM Modi targets Congress for letting Kartarpur Sahib stay in Pakistan during partition

After Pakistan insisted on levying $20 per Indian pilgrim visiting the Kartarpur Corridor,&nbsp;Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday urged Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan to withdraw the&nbsp;fee proposed to be levied by the Islamic Republic on pilgrims visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara.

"I appeal to @ImranKhanPTI to withdraw $20 fee imposed by @pid_gov on pilgrims to Kartarpur Sahib to faciliate 'khulle darshan deedar' of the final resting place of SRI Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The world Sikh community will be grateful to you for this gesture," he said in a tweet.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I appeal to <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a> to withdraw $20 fee imposed by <a href="https://twitter.com/pid_gov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pid_gov</a> on pilgrims to Kartarpur Sahib to faciliate ‘khulle darshan deedar’ of the final resting place of SRI Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The world Sikh community will be grateful to you for this gesture.
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1185178908032983041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Singh indicated out that a journey to the memorable gurdwara, which was revered the world over as the last resting spot of Guru Nanak Dev, was the satisfaction of an esteemed dream for the whole Sikh people group.

India had on Thursday urged Pakistan to not levy the proposed $20 fee on pilgrims visiting the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the interest of devotees.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to a query that an agreement on all other issues, except the matter of service fee, has been reached with Pakistan after several rounds of discussions.

He said Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was an important people-to-people initiative taken by India to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji.

"Pakistan insists on levying a fee of $20 (approximately&nbsp;Rs 1420) on all pilgrims. We have urged Pakistan not to do so in the interests of devotees and also because this is a P2P initiative. We hope that the agreement can be concluded and signed in time for the great event," he added.

India has repeatedly asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge $20 as fee from pilgrims visiting the gurdwara. However, Pakistan has remained adamant on the issue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the corridor connecting the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan on November 8.

(With inputs from agencies)

After Pakistan insisted on levying $20 per Indian pilgrim visiting the Kartarpur Corridor, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday urged Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan to withdraw the fee proposed to be levied by the Islamic Republic on pilgrims visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara.

After Pakistan insisted on levying $20 per Indian pilgrim visiting the Kartarpur Corridor, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday urged Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan to withdraw the fee proposed to be levied by the Islamic Republic on pilgrims visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara. "I appeal to @ImranKhanPTI to withdraw $20 fee imposed by @pid_gov on pilgrims to Kartarpur Sahib to faciliate 'khulle darshan deedar' of the final resting place of SRI Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The world Sikh community will be grateful to you for this gesture," he said in a tweet. I appeal to @ImranKhanPTI to withdraw $20 fee imposed by @pid_gov on pilgrims to Kartarpur Sahib to faciliate ‘khulle darshan deedar’ of the final resting place of SRI Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The world Sikh community will be grateful to you for this gesture. — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) October 18, 2019 × Singh indicated out that a journey to the memorable gurdwara, which was revered the world over as the last resting spot of Guru Nanak Dev, was the satisfaction of an esteemed dream for the whole Sikh people group. India had on Thursday urged Pakistan to not levy the proposed $20 fee on pilgrims visiting the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the interest of devotees. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to a query that an agreement on all other issues, except the matter of service fee, has been reached with Pakistan after several rounds of discussions. He said Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was an important people-to-people initiative taken by India to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji. "Pakistan insists on levying a fee of $20 (approximately Rs 1420) on all pilgrims. We have urged Pakistan not to do so in the interests of devotees and also because this is a P2P initiative. We hope that the agreement can be concluded and signed in time for the great event," he added. India has repeatedly asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge $20 as fee from pilgrims visiting the gurdwara. However, Pakistan has remained adamant on the issue. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the corridor connecting the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan on November 8. (With inputs from agencies)

Amarinder Singh appeals to Pakistan PM to withdraw $20 fee imposed on pilgrims visiting Kartarpur Sahib

India on Thursday urged Pakistan to not levy the proposed $20 fee on pilgrims visiting the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the interest of devotees and hoped that the agreement will be signed in the time ahead of the corridor opening to mark the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to a query that an agreement on all other issues, except the matter of service fee, has been reached with Pakistan after several rounds of discussion.

He said Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was an important people-to-people initiative taken by India to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji.

"Pakistan insists on levying a fee of USD 20 (approx. Rs. 1420) on all pilgrims. We have urged Pakistan not to do so in the interests of devotees and also because this is a P2P initiative. We hope that the agreement can be concluded and signed in time for the great event," he added.

India has repeatedly asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge USD 20 as a fee from pilgrims visiting the gurdwara. However, Pakistan has remained adamant on the issue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the corridor, connecting the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan on November 8.

India on Thursday urged Pakistan to not levy the proposed $20 fee on pilgrims visiting the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the interest of devotees and hoped that the agreement will be signed in the time ahead of the corridor opening to mark the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev.

India on Thursday urged Pakistan to not levy the proposed $20 fee on pilgrims visiting the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara in the interest of devotees and hoped that the agreement will be signed in the time ahead of the corridor opening to mark the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in response to a query that an agreement on all other issues, except the matter of service fee, has been reached with Pakistan after several rounds of discussion. He said Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was an important people-to-people initiative taken by India to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji. "Pakistan insists on levying a fee of USD 20 (approx. Rs. 1420) on all pilgrims. We have urged Pakistan not to do so in the interests of devotees and also because this is a P2P initiative. We hope that the agreement can be concluded and signed in time for the great event," he added. India has repeatedly asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge USD 20 as a fee from pilgrims visiting the gurdwara. However, Pakistan has remained adamant on the issue. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the corridor, connecting the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan on November 8.

Kartarpur corridor: India urges Pakistan not to levy $20 service fee, hopes for timely signing of agreement

India and Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on their respective sides in the first week of November while New Delhi will start the registration of batches going to visit the shrine from October 20.

While India has already announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Indian side of the corridor on November 8, the Pakistani side will be inaugurated on November 9.&nbsp;

More than 2500 Indian citizens are expected to witness the inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor. While no visa will be required, they have to carry the passport.&nbsp;

But even as both sides prepare for the inauguration, there is no resolution to the $20 fee Islamabad has proposed to charge for Indian pilgrims as "service fee".&nbsp;

Pakistan last week reverted on the Indian draft on Kartarpur corridor by sending its proposal which included the fee, something which New Delhi had voiced its concern against in the last India-Pakistan official meeting in early September.&nbsp;

Pakistan and India have held three rounds of formal talks on the Kartarpur corridor’s draft agreement whereas the technical level experts have met at least four times to discuss the nitty-gritty of the project.&nbsp;

The Kartarpur Corridor was a long-standing demand of the Sikh community and both New Delhi and Islamabad agreed to it last November. Work on the Indian side of the corridor is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

India and Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on their respective sides in the first week of November while New Delhi will start the registration of batches going to visit the shrine from October 20.

India and Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on their respective sides in the first week of November while New Delhi will start the registration of batches going to visit the shrine from October 20. While India has already announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Indian side of the corridor on November 8, the Pakistani side will be inaugurated on November 9. More than 2500 Indian citizens are expected to witness the inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor. While no visa will be required, they have to carry the passport. But even as both sides prepare for the inauguration, there is no resolution to the $20 fee Islamabad has proposed to charge for Indian pilgrims as "service fee". Pakistan last week reverted on the Indian draft on Kartarpur corridor by sending its proposal which included the fee, something which New Delhi had voiced its concern against in the last India-Pakistan official meeting in early September. Pakistan and India have held three rounds of formal talks on the Kartarpur corridor’s draft agreement whereas the technical level experts have met at least four times to discuss the nitty-gritty of the project. The Kartarpur Corridor was a long-standing demand of the Sikh community and both New Delhi and Islamabad agreed to it last November. Work on the Indian side of the corridor is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

Registration to visit Kartarpur Corridor to start from October 20, set for inauguration in November

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the much-awaited <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kartarpur-corridor-construction-in-full-swing-will-open-in-november-201710">Kartarpur corridor</a>, connecting the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan, on November 8.

Taking to Twitter, Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday said, "With the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Sikh Panth's ardaas for 'khule darshan deedar' of Sri Kartarpur Sahib to finally become reality! On Nov 8th, history will be created with PM @narendramodi ji inaugurating the #kartarpurcorridor (ICP)."

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With the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev ji, Sikh Panth’s ardaas for ‘khule darshan deedar’ of Sri Kartarpur Sahib to finally become reality ! 
On Nov 8th, history will be created with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji inaugurating the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kartarpurcorridor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kartarpurcorridor</a> (ICP). 1/2 <a href="https://t.co/wBHeTRZcma">pic.twitter.com/wBHeTRZcma</a>
— Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) <a href="https://twitter.com/HarsimratBadal_/status/1182885190667911169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Speaking to media, Badal said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Kartarpur corridor on November 8. After the inauguration, he will pay his obeisance at Sultanpur Lodhi. On November 11, Home Minister Amit Shah will visit the SGPC (Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee) stage. On November 12, President Ram Nath Kovind will visit the SGPC stage."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/whosoever-comes-to-kartarpur-is-our-guest-says-pakistan-prime-ministers-special-adviser-253969">Pakistan</a> on October 10 said that no date has been fixed so far for the inauguration of the corridor, albeit it assured that the work on the same is expected to be completed on time.

"Kartarpur Saheb project is expected to be completed on time and the opening will take place as committed by the Prime Minister of Pakistan," Pakistan Foreign Minister spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said during the media briefing, adding that the "Dates have not been finalised as yet."

The corridor will connect Kartarpur Sahib with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims.&nbsp;
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the much-awaited Kartarpur corridor, connecting the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan, on November 8.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the much-awaited Kartarpur corridor, connecting the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur with Darbar Sahib Gurdwara in Pakistan, on November 8. Taking to Twitter, Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Saturday said, "With the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Sikh Panth's ardaas for 'khule darshan deedar' of Sri Kartarpur Sahib to finally become reality! On Nov 8th, history will be created with PM @narendramodi ji inaugurating the #kartarpurcorridor (ICP)." With the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev ji, Sikh Panth’s ardaas for ‘khule darshan deedar’ of Sri Kartarpur Sahib to finally become reality ! On Nov 8th, history will be created with PM @narendramodi ji inaugurating the #kartarpurcorridor (ICP). 1/2 pic.twitter.com/wBHeTRZcma — Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) October 12, 2019 × Speaking to media, Badal said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Kartarpur corridor on November 8. After the inauguration, he will pay his obeisance at Sultanpur Lodhi. On November 11, Home Minister Amit Shah will visit the SGPC (Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee) stage. On November 12, President Ram Nath Kovind will visit the SGPC stage." Pakistan on October 10 said that no date has been fixed so far for the inauguration of the corridor, albeit it assured that the work on the same is expected to be completed on time. "Kartarpur Saheb project is expected to be completed on time and the opening will take place as committed by the Prime Minister of Pakistan," Pakistan Foreign Minister spokesperson Mohammad Faisal said during the media briefing, adding that the "Dates have not been finalised as yet." The corridor will connect Kartarpur Sahib with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims.

PM Modi to inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on November 8: Harsimrat Kaur Badal

With the 550th birth anniversary of Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev approaching next month, Pakistan on Thursday said no date has been fixed so far for the inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor. Watch this video to know more.

Pakistan's U-Turn on Kartarpur Corridor

Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, special adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan for Information and Broadcasting, on Saturday said that Kartarpur is a religious issue and whosoever comes there will be felicitated. 
 
Responding to a question whether former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will be welcome&nbsp;to Kartarpur, Awan said, "Pakistan believes whosoever comes in Kartarpur will be our guest. This is not a political but a religious issue." 
 
"So...on religious issue, whosoever comes will be our guest and felicitating him is our responsibility," she said. 
 
On October 3, Captain Amarinder Singh, the Chief Minister of Punjab, India, had said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manmohan-singh-not-going-to-pakistan-for-kartarpur-corridor-opening-ceremony-clarifies-amarinder-singh-253534">he will not go to Pakistan for the opening of Kartarpur corridor</a> and indicated that former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will also not attend the event. 
 
"There is no question of me going (to Pakistan for the opening of Kartarpur corridor) and I feel Dr Manmohan Singh will not go as well," Captain Amarinder said. 
 
Captain Amarinder had invited the former Prime Minister to attend the main event at Sultanpur Lodhi to mark Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Prakash Purab next month. 
 
Pakistan government had extended an invitation to Manmohan Singh for the inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor to be held on November 9. 
 
Congress sources had said he is not likely to accept the invitation. 
 
The corridor will connect Kartarpur Sahib with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims.

Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, special adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan for Information and Broadcasting, on Saturday said that Kartarpur is a religious issue and whosoever comes there will be felicitated.

Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, special adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan for Information and Broadcasting, on Saturday said that Kartarpur is a religious issue and whosoever comes there will be felicitated. Responding to a question whether former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will be welcome to Kartarpur, Awan said, "Pakistan believes whosoever comes in Kartarpur will be our guest. This is not a political but a religious issue." "So...on religious issue, whosoever comes will be our guest and felicitating him is our responsibility," she said. On October 3, Captain Amarinder Singh, the Chief Minister of Punjab, India, had said that he will not go to Pakistan for the opening of Kartarpur corridor and indicated that former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will also not attend the event. "There is no question of me going (to Pakistan for the opening of Kartarpur corridor) and I feel Dr Manmohan Singh will not go as well," Captain Amarinder said. Captain Amarinder had invited the former Prime Minister to attend the main event at Sultanpur Lodhi to mark Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Prakash Purab next month. Pakistan government had extended an invitation to Manmohan Singh for the inauguration of the Kartarpur corridor to be held on November 9. Congress sources had said he is not likely to accept the invitation. The corridor will connect Kartarpur Sahib with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims.

Whosoever comes to Kartarpur is our guest, says Pakistan prime minister's special adviser

Former Prime Minister of India Dr Mammohan Singh on Thursday accepted an invitation extended by the Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh to join the first Jatha (religious group) to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on November 9 for attending the inaugural ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor.

Dr Manmohan Singh will also attend the main event of Guru Nanak’s 550th birth anniversary celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi on November 12.

It is interesting to know that former Indian PM Singh never visited Pakistan during 10 years of his prime ministership. Manmohan Singh was born in Gah which is in now in Pakistan's Punjab Province but after partition, his family shifted to Amritsar.

On Monday, Pakistani FM Qureshi announced that they would invite Dr Manmohan Singh for the opening of Kartarpur corridor, though no official reply has come from the former PM.

Earlier in the day, Punjab CM met PM Modi to invite him for Kartarpur corridor opening. He also sought, "clearance for special delegation to visit Gurdwara Nankana Sahib &amp; bring back Nagar Kirtan to mark the historic occasion", a tweet by the media advisor of Punjab CM, Raveen Thukral said.

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Former PM Dr Manmohan Singh accepts <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@capt_amarinder</a>’s invite to join 1st Jatha to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on Nov 9, will also attend Sultanpur Lodhi main event <a href="https://twitter.com/550yrsGuruNanak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@550yrsGuruNanak</a> <a href="https://t.co/cD9rJoZUBT">pic.twitter.com/cD9rJoZUBT</a>
— Raveen Thukral (@RT_MediaAdvPbCM) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_MediaAdvPbCM/status/1179657297947066368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Happy to meet former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh ji at his residence today. Have invited him to join us on the 1st Jatha to Sri Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara &amp; attend the main event at Sultanpur Lodhi to mark Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/550thPrakashPurab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#550thPrakashPurab</a>. <a href="https://t.co/CZw5bbeUDj">pic.twitter.com/CZw5bbeUDj</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1179661269613174784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Both President Kovind and PM Modi have accepted Punjab CM’s invite to attend 550th Guru Nanak Prakash Purab celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in November.

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Met President Ram Nath Kovind ji and invited him to grace the celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/550PrakashPurab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#550PrakashPurab</a> of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. <a href="https://twitter.com/PunjabGovtIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PunjabGovtIndia</a> is making all necessary arrangements to observe this historic occasion in a befitting manner. <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> <a href="https://t.co/FoQRGMG7t1">pic.twitter.com/FoQRGMG7t1</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1179688424506187777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Met PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; apprised him of the State Government’s preparations for the grand celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi &amp; Dera Baba Nanak on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/550PrakashPurab?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#550PrakashPurab</a> of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Invited him to visit Punjab for the celebrations and preside over same. <a href="https://t.co/3nFAap9OOo">pic.twitter.com/3nFAap9OOo</a>
— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) <a href="https://twitter.com/capt_amarinder/status/1179636487765147649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The corridor is expected to be open by November 2019 during the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev Ji by both India and Pakistan though there hasn't been any official announcement.

The Gurudwara is built on the location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the last 18 years of his life and is located in Pakistan's Narowal district, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak on the Indian side.

Former Prime Minister of India Dr Mammohan Singh on Thursday accepted an invitation extended by the Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh to join the first Jatha (religious group) to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on November 9 for attending the inaugural ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor.

Former Prime Minister of India Dr Mammohan Singh on Thursday accepted an invitation extended by the Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh to join the first Jatha (religious group) to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on November 9 for attending the inaugural ceremony of the Kartarpur Corridor. Dr Manmohan Singh will also attend the main event of Guru Nanak’s 550th birth anniversary celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi on November 12. It is interesting to know that former Indian PM Singh never visited Pakistan during 10 years of his prime ministership. Manmohan Singh was born in Gah which is in now in Pakistan's Punjab Province but after partition, his family shifted to Amritsar. On Monday, Pakistani FM Qureshi announced that they would invite Dr Manmohan Singh for the opening of Kartarpur corridor, though no official reply has come from the former PM. Earlier in the day, Punjab CM met PM Modi to invite him for Kartarpur corridor opening. He also sought, "clearance for special delegation to visit Gurdwara Nankana Sahib & bring back Nagar Kirtan to mark the historic occasion", a tweet by the media advisor of Punjab CM, Raveen Thukral said. Former PM Dr Manmohan Singh accepts @capt_amarinder’s invite to join 1st Jatha to Sri Kartarpur Gurdwara on Nov 9, will also attend Sultanpur Lodhi main event @550yrsGuruNanak pic.twitter.com/cD9rJoZUBT — Raveen Thukral (@RT_MediaAdvPbCM) October 3, 2019 × Happy to meet former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh ji at his residence today. Have invited him to join us on the 1st Jatha to Sri Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara & attend the main event at Sultanpur Lodhi to mark Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's #550thPrakashPurab. pic.twitter.com/CZw5bbeUDj — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) October 3, 2019 × Both President Kovind and PM Modi have accepted Punjab CM’s invite to attend 550th Guru Nanak Prakash Purab celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in November. Met President Ram Nath Kovind ji and invited him to grace the celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi on the occasion of #550PrakashPurab of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. @PunjabGovtIndia is making all necessary arrangements to observe this historic occasion in a befitting manner. @rashtrapatibhvn pic.twitter.com/FoQRGMG7t1 — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) October 3, 2019 × Met PM Shri @narendramodi & apprised him of the State Government’s preparations for the grand celebrations at Sultanpur Lodhi & Dera Baba Nanak on the occasion of #550PrakashPurab of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Invited him to visit Punjab for the celebrations and preside over same. pic.twitter.com/3nFAap9OOo — Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) October 3, 2019 × The corridor is expected to be open by November 2019 during the 550th birth anniversary of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev Ji by both India and Pakistan though there hasn't been any official announcement. The Gurudwara is built on the location where Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent the last 18 years of his life and is located in Pakistan's Narowal district, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak on the Indian side.

Former PM Manmohan Singh to visit Kartarpur Gurdwara in Pakistan in November

The Kartarpur Sahib corridor will be inaugurated&nbsp;on&nbsp;November&nbsp;9, Pakistani project director Atif Majeed said on Monday.

The movement of pilgrims will, however, begin by&nbsp;November 11,&nbsp;Govind Mohan, Additional Secretary of Home Ministry informed.

The corridor will be inaugurated just ahead of the 550th birthday of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak and will help&nbsp;millions of Indian pilgrims, particularly of Sikh faith.&nbsp;

India is building a passenger terminal for Sikh pilgrims and a highway till international border which will be completed by October 31. Six companies of BSF will also be deployed.&nbsp;

On Monday, the Pakistani government also took a group of journalist to showcase developments in the corridor on its side.

Earlier this month, India and Pakistan held the third round of talks on the corridor but it ended in a deadlock with Pakistani side saying it will charge $20 as a "service charge" from the pilgrims.

India has asked Pakistan to be flexible on it saying $20 so-called "service charge" is against the spirit of the smooth functioning of the Corridor.

Both sides have said they are committed to the project which was agreed in November 2018.

The Kartarpur Sahib corridor will be inaugurated on November 9, Pakistani project director Atif Majeed said on Monday. The movement of pilgrims will, however, begin by November 11, Govind Mohan, Additional Secretary of Home Ministry informed.

The Kartarpur Sahib corridor will be inaugurated on November 9, Pakistani project director Atif Majeed said on Monday. The movement of pilgrims will, however, begin by November 11, Govind Mohan, Additional Secretary of Home Ministry informed. The corridor will be inaugurated just ahead of the 550th birthday of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak and will help millions of Indian pilgrims, particularly of Sikh faith. India is building a passenger terminal for Sikh pilgrims and a highway till international border which will be completed by October 31. Six companies of BSF will also be deployed. On Monday, the Pakistani government also took a group of journalist to showcase developments in the corridor on its side. Earlier this month, India and Pakistan held the third round of talks on the corridor but it ended in a deadlock with Pakistani side saying it will charge $20 as a "service charge" from the pilgrims. India has asked Pakistan to be flexible on it saying $20 so-called "service charge" is against the spirit of the smooth functioning of the Corridor. Both sides have said they are committed to the project which was agreed in November 2018.

Kartarpur corridor to be inaugurated on November 9: Official

India and Pakistan talks <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-pakistan-india-fail-to-reach-an-agreement-on-key-issues-247573">on Kartarpur corridor</a> on Wednesday ended in a deadlock as Islamabad proposed $20(Rs 1,400) as the price to use the corridor and also showed inflexibility on the presence of Indian diplomats to facilitate the visit of Indian pilgrims.&nbsp;

While Pakistan insisted on charging a "service fee" of $20 for allowing pilgrims to visit Kartarpur Gurdwara, the Indian officials refused. A source said that charging a fee was not in the spirit of "smooth and easy access through the corridor."&nbsp;

The Pakistani side told Indian officials during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kartarpur-corridor-indian-pakistan-officials-to-meet-wednesday-to-thrash-out-an-agreement-247409">Kartarpur corridor talks</a> that "there is no free pilgrimage to Vatican or Mekkah", adding, "Saudi Arabia charges double the amount for a second visit".&nbsp;

Though it is unlikely India will agree to the fee, Pakistan could earn upto Rs 15,700,00 per day if&nbsp;the demand is implemented. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Among other issues was the presence of Indian protocol and consular officers. New Delhi requested Islamabad to allow Indian protocol officers to accompany pilgrims in every visit, however, Pakistan wasn't keen on it. &nbsp;

Pakistan showed unwillingness to allow the presence of Indian consular or protocol officials at the Gurdwara premises as part of New Delhi's consular responsibility. India asked Pakistan to reconsider its position.&nbsp;

The Pakistani side told Indian officials that, "when there is no visa process involved, what is the point of having a consular then?"&nbsp;

SCL Das, joint secretary, internal security in the ministry of home affairs who headed the Indian delegation at the talks said: "We were hopeful that this would be the last and final meeting. We are disappointed over two points. This is a people's project, no fee should be charged and they should be flexible on that."&nbsp;

Both sides have already agreed that 5,000 pilgrims can visit Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor every day and additional pilgrims, over and above the figure of 5,000, can visit on special occasions.

"There is an agreement on visa-free travel of Indian pilgrims, without any restrictions based on their faith. Persons of Indian origin holding OCI card too can visit the Holy Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib using this corridor", SCL Das said.&nbsp;

A source told WION, "Pakistan wanted to indulge in propaganda than pursue serious talks."

The corridor will be open 365 days and pilgrims have a choice to visit as individuals or in groups, and on foot. Both sides also agreed on &nbsp;emergency evacuation procedures, especially medical emergencies and for this, a direct line of communication between border the security force and Pakistan Rangers will be established. Pakistan will also make sufficient provision for preparation and distribution of ‘Langar’ and ‘Prasad’ for the pilgrims.&nbsp;

This was the third round of India-Pakistan talks on the corridor and is expected to be followed by the fifth round of technical talks. The fourth round of India-Pak talks will take place at Wagah, Pakistan.&nbsp;

Work is on full swing on both Pakistani and Indian side of the &nbsp;Kartarpur corridor with officials monitoring daily progress. India has been building a bus passenger terminal and a four-lane highway up to the International Boundary. &nbsp;

In November 2018, India and Pakistan had announced the establishment of a direct border-crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, the final resting place of Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak, to Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.

It is expected to be opened by November 2019, 550th birth anniversary of &nbsp;Guru Nanak. Kartarpur is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the Ravi river, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak.

India and Pakistan talks on Kartarpur corridor on Wednesday ended in a deadlock as Islamabad proposed $20(Rs 1,400) as the price to use the corridor and also showed inflexibility on the presence of Indian diplomats to facilitate the visit of Indian pilgrims.

India and Pakistan talks on Kartarpur corridor on Wednesday ended in a deadlock as Islamabad proposed $20(Rs 1,400) as the price to use the corridor and also showed inflexibility on the presence of Indian diplomats to facilitate the visit of Indian pilgrims. While Pakistan insisted on charging a "service fee" of $20 for allowing pilgrims to visit Kartarpur Gurdwara, the Indian officials refused. A source said that charging a fee was not in the spirit of "smooth and easy access through the corridor." The Pakistani side told Indian officials during the Kartarpur corridor talks that "there is no free pilgrimage to Vatican or Mekkah", adding, "Saudi Arabia charges double the amount for a second visit". Though it is unlikely India will agree to the fee, Pakistan could earn upto Rs 15,700,00 per day if the demand is implemented. Among other issues was the presence of Indian protocol and consular officers. New Delhi requested Islamabad to allow Indian protocol officers to accompany pilgrims in every visit, however, Pakistan wasn't keen on it. Pakistan showed unwillingness to allow the presence of Indian consular or protocol officials at the Gurdwara premises as part of New Delhi's consular responsibility. India asked Pakistan to reconsider its position. The Pakistani side told Indian officials that, "when there is no visa process involved, what is the point of having a consular then?" SCL Das, joint secretary, internal security in the ministry of home affairs who headed the Indian delegation at the talks said: "We were hopeful that this would be the last and final meeting. We are disappointed over two points. This is a people's project, no fee should be charged and they should be flexible on that." Both sides have already agreed that 5,000 pilgrims can visit Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor every day and additional pilgrims, over and above the figure of 5,000, can visit on special occasions. "There is an agreement on visa-free travel of Indian pilgrims, without any restrictions based on their faith. Persons of Indian origin holding OCI card too can visit the Holy Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib using this corridor", SCL Das said. A source told WION, "Pakistan wanted to indulge in propaganda than pursue serious talks." The corridor will be open 365 days and pilgrims have a choice to visit as individuals or in groups, and on foot. Both sides also agreed on emergency evacuation procedures, especially medical emergencies and for this, a direct line of communication between border the security force and Pakistan Rangers will be established. Pakistan will also make sufficient provision for preparation and distribution of ‘Langar’ and ‘Prasad’ for the pilgrims. This was the third round of India-Pakistan talks on the corridor and is expected to be followed by the fifth round of technical talks. The fourth round of India-Pak talks will take place at Wagah, Pakistan. Work is on full swing on both Pakistani and Indian side of the Kartarpur corridor with officials monitoring daily progress. India has been building a bus passenger terminal and a four-lane highway up to the International Boundary. In November 2018, India and Pakistan had announced the establishment of a direct border-crossing linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, the final resting place of Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak, to Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. It is expected to be opened by November 2019, 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. Kartarpur is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the Ravi river, about four km from Dera Baba Nanak.

Pakistan demands $20 to use corridor during visit as Kartarpur talks end in deadlock

On the occasion of Sri Guru Granth Sahib first Prakash Purb celebrations, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi government will complete the work on Kartarpur Sahib Corridor within the time frame.

"May the light of Holy Guru Granth Sahib Ji continue to guide us and provide us with the strength to serve our nation better. I also reiterate the commitment of the Modi government to complete the work on the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor within the time frame. Waheguru Ji Da Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh," tweeted Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Yesterday, a technical meeting was held at Zero Point between officials of India and Pakistan amid tight security. India and Pakistan had held the second round of talks on July 14 to narrow down their differences on the corridor for visa-free travel of Sikh pilgrims. Both the sides had said that they agreed to a majority of modalities for the smooth passage of the pilgrims.

Pakistan, which had made a unilateral decision to downgrade diplomatic ties with India following India`s decision on J-K, has said that the work on the corridor will continue as planned.

Last week, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Firdous Ashiq Awan said that the opening of the route will remain on track irrespective of Pakistan`s ties with India over the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

The first Prakash Purb of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib was celebrated in the year 1604 at Golden temple and the holy book was then carried to Darbar Sahib from Ramsar Gurdwara.

The corridor is scheduled to become operational in November this year.

On the occasion of Sri Guru Granth Sahib first Prakash Purb celebrations, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi government will complete the work on Kartarpur Sahib Corridor within the time frame.

On the occasion of Sri Guru Granth Sahib first Prakash Purb celebrations, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi government will complete the work on Kartarpur Sahib Corridor within the time frame. "May the light of Holy Guru Granth Sahib Ji continue to guide us and provide us with the strength to serve our nation better. I also reiterate the commitment of the Modi government to complete the work on the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor within the time frame. Waheguru Ji Da Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh," tweeted Amit Shah. Yesterday, a technical meeting was held at Zero Point between officials of India and Pakistan amid tight security. India and Pakistan had held the second round of talks on July 14 to narrow down their differences on the corridor for visa-free travel of Sikh pilgrims. Both the sides had said that they agreed to a majority of modalities for the smooth passage of the pilgrims. Pakistan, which had made a unilateral decision to downgrade diplomatic ties with India following India`s decision on J-K, has said that the work on the corridor will continue as planned. Last week, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Firdous Ashiq Awan said that the opening of the route will remain on track irrespective of Pakistan`s ties with India over the Kashmir issue. The first Prakash Purb of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib was celebrated in the year 1604 at Golden temple and the holy book was then carried to Darbar Sahib from Ramsar Gurdwara. The corridor is scheduled to become operational in November this year.

Kartarpur Corridor will be completed within time frame: Amit Shah

Work on the Kartarpur Corridor, which got halted for a while overpayment issues between contractors and labourers, has resumed.

Workers were seen laying asphalt on the route that will connect Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Narowal district of Punjab province in Pakistan.

"Some issues occurred recently between the contractors and labourers overpayment. That has been sorted out now. Work will be completed on time," construction official Joginder Singh said on Thursday.

Meanwhile, India and Pakistan are scheduled to hold technical-level talks on the corridor on Friday at Zero Point, despite tensions between two countries in the wake of New Delhi's move to abrogate Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

"The technical meeting on Kartarpur Sahib Corridor is being held on August 30 at Zero Point. Pakistan remains committed to completing and inaugurating the corridor as announced by our Prime Minister and as planned," Pakistan's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had told reporters at a weekly media briefing on Thursday, Dawn reported.

India and Pakistan had held the second round of talks on July 14 to narrow down their differences on the corridor for visa-free travel of Sikh pilgrims. Both sides had said that they agreed to a majority of modalities for the smooth passage of the pilgrims.

Pakistan, which had made a unilateral decision to downgrade diplomatic ties with India following India's decision on J-K, has said that the work on the corridor will continue as planned.

Last week, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Firdous Ashiq Awan said that the opening of the route will remain on track irrespective of Pakistan's ties with India over the Kashmir issue.

The corridor is scheduled to become operational in November this year.

Work on the Kartarpur Corridor, which got halted for a while overpayment issues between contractors and labourers, has resumed. Workers were seen laying asphalt on the route that will connect Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Narowal district of Punjab province in Pakistan.

Work on the Kartarpur Corridor, which got halted for a while overpayment issues between contractors and labourers, has resumed. Workers were seen laying asphalt on the route that will connect Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Narowal district of Punjab province in Pakistan. "Some issues occurred recently between the contractors and labourers overpayment. That has been sorted out now. Work will be completed on time," construction official Joginder Singh said on Thursday. Meanwhile, India and Pakistan are scheduled to hold technical-level talks on the corridor on Friday at Zero Point, despite tensions between two countries in the wake of New Delhi's move to abrogate Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. "The technical meeting on Kartarpur Sahib Corridor is being held on August 30 at Zero Point. Pakistan remains committed to completing and inaugurating the corridor as announced by our Prime Minister and as planned," Pakistan's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Faisal had told reporters at a weekly media briefing on Thursday, Dawn reported. India and Pakistan had held the second round of talks on July 14 to narrow down their differences on the corridor for visa-free travel of Sikh pilgrims. Both sides had said that they agreed to a majority of modalities for the smooth passage of the pilgrims. Pakistan, which had made a unilateral decision to downgrade diplomatic ties with India following India's decision on J-K, has said that the work on the corridor will continue as planned. Last week, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Firdous Ashiq Awan said that the opening of the route will remain on track irrespective of Pakistan's ties with India over the Kashmir issue. The corridor is scheduled to become operational in November this year.

Construction work on Kartarpur Corridor resumes

India has proposed a meeting between Indian and Pakistan's officials in the first week of September at Attari on the Indian side to discuss Kartarpur Corridor. If Pakistan agrees, this will be the third such meet, the first was held in March while the second took place in July.

The meeting will focus on finalising the agreement on the modalities for the Kartarpur corridor and will follow a technical-level meeting to finalise the alignment of the temporary road, as agreed by Pakistan in July for the corridor.&nbsp;

During the second round of talks between India and Pakistan, that took place on July 14, Islamabad agreed to construct a bridge over the old Ravi creek that will allow all-weather pilgrimage to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib throughout the year.

Another focus point will be the modalities on the exchange of information about using the corridor and modalities to deal with the emergencies such as medical cases, during the operation of the corridor.

The development comes ahead of the fourth round of technical meet on Kartarpur that will happen on the 30th of this month at the 'zero-point' on India, Pakistan border in Punjab.&nbsp;

Pakistan, despite stated commitments, was delaying its confirmation on the meet which India had proposed in the first week of August. Despite repeated reminders, it took almost one month for Pakistan to decide on the meeting.

Work is on in full swing on the Indian side of the Kartarpur corridor with Indian officials monitoring daily progress. India is building a 4-lane highway and a passenger bus terminal.

Both the sides are keen to open the corridor, which was agreed upon last year ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in November 2019.

India has proposed a meeting between Indian and Pakistan's officials in the first week of September at Attari on the Indian side to discuss Kartarpur Corridor. If Pakistan agrees, this will be the third such meet, the first was held in March while the second took place in July.

India has proposed a meeting between Indian and Pakistan's officials in the first week of September at Attari on the Indian side to discuss Kartarpur Corridor. If Pakistan agrees, this will be the third such meet, the first was held in March while the second took place in July. The meeting will focus on finalising the agreement on the modalities for the Kartarpur corridor and will follow a technical-level meeting to finalise the alignment of the temporary road, as agreed by Pakistan in July for the corridor. During the second round of talks between India and Pakistan, that took place on July 14, Islamabad agreed to construct a bridge over the old Ravi creek that will allow all-weather pilgrimage to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib throughout the year. Another focus point will be the modalities on the exchange of information about using the corridor and modalities to deal with the emergencies such as medical cases, during the operation of the corridor. The development comes ahead of the fourth round of technical meet on Kartarpur that will happen on the 30th of this month at the 'zero-point' on India, Pakistan border in Punjab. Pakistan, despite stated commitments, was delaying its confirmation on the meet which India had proposed in the first week of August. Despite repeated reminders, it took almost one month for Pakistan to decide on the meeting. Work is on in full swing on the Indian side of the Kartarpur corridor with Indian officials monitoring daily progress. India is building a 4-lane highway and a passenger bus terminal. Both the sides are keen to open the corridor, which was agreed upon last year ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in November 2019.

New Delhi proposes third round of India-Pakistan talks on Kartarpur 

Pakistan continues to drag its feet for the fourth round of Kartarpur technical meet which was requested by New Delhi earlier this month. India had requested Pakistan in early August to hold another round of technical meeting on Kartarpur corridor but did not receive any response so far.

Pakistan continues to drag its feet for the fourth round of Kartarpur technical meet which was requested by New Delhi earlier this month. India had requested Pakistan in early August to hold another round of technical meeting on Kartarpur corridor but did not receive any response so far. This week again India sent a reminder requesting Pakistan to hold the technical meet. The development comes despite Islamabad's public statements that it is committed to the initiative in the backdrop of it cutting diplomatic and trade ties with India due to New Delhi removing a special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. "Kartarpur initiative will continue," Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said. WION had first reported that New Delhi has requested for the meet in the first week of August, for which "A reminder was also issued", a source said. On the agenda will be three things, till the time bridge on Ravi river is not constructed, Pakistan should build a service road, provision to help pilgrims if an emergency arises and mechanism to share details of pilgrims. If the meet materialises, this will be the fourth round of technical talks between the two countries in 2019. So far three rounds of India-Pakistan technical meetings have taken place, March, April and May 2019, during which both sides endorsed the crossing point coordinates. When the second round of talks between Indian-Pakistan officials took place on July 14, Islamabad agreed to construct a bridge over the old Ravi creek that will allow all-weather pilgrimage to the Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib, throughout the year. Both sides are keen to open the corridor, which was agreed by both sides last year ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in November 2019.

Pakistan drags its feet on India's request on technical meeting on Kartarpur

A special 'jatha' of around 500 Sikh pilgrims crossed over to Pakistan for Nankana Sahib on Tuesday to begin celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev from his birthplace on August 1.

The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi issued visas to the pilgrims who are partaking in the special 'jatha'.

"These visas have been granted over and above the issuance of thousands of visas every year under the framework of Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974," the high commission said in a statement.

"Government of Pakistan also believes in the policy of promoting visits to religious shrines and people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and India," it said.

On July 14, India and Pakistan had held the second round of bilateral talks to narrow down their differences on the corridor for travel of Sikh pilgrims from Dera Baba Nanak Sahib in Punjab to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan.

Both sides said that they had agreed to a majority of modalities for the smooth passage of the pilgrims.

Once opened, the three-kilometres corridor will allow Sikh pilgrims direct access to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, where Guru Nanak Dev passed away in 1539.

The route is expected to be completed by September-end.&nbsp;

A special 'jatha' of around 500 Sikh pilgrims crossed over to Pakistan for Nankana Sahib on Tuesday to begin celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev from his birthplace on August 1.

A special 'jatha' of around 500 Sikh pilgrims crossed over to Pakistan for Nankana Sahib on Tuesday to begin celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev from his birthplace on August 1. The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi issued visas to the pilgrims who are partaking in the special 'jatha'. "These visas have been granted over and above the issuance of thousands of visas every year under the framework of Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974," the high commission said in a statement. "Government of Pakistan also believes in the policy of promoting visits to religious shrines and people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and India," it said. On July 14, India and Pakistan had held the second round of bilateral talks to narrow down their differences on the corridor for travel of Sikh pilgrims from Dera Baba Nanak Sahib in Punjab to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan. Both sides said that they had agreed to a majority of modalities for the smooth passage of the pilgrims. Once opened, the three-kilometres corridor will allow Sikh pilgrims direct access to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, where Guru Nanak Dev passed away in 1539. The route is expected to be completed by September-end.

500 Sikh pilgrims cross Pakistan for Guru Nanak Dev's 550th birth celebrations

Pakistan delegation in Wagah on Sunday agreed to allow visa-free, year-long travel to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card holders.

Pakistan has also agreed to allow 5,000 pilgrims, every day, &nbsp;to visit the Gurdwara on foot, both as individuals or in groups, Home Ministry's Joint Secretary (Internal Security) SCL Das told reporters in a press conference.

Pakistan has also agreed&nbsp;to build a bridge on its side.

The Indian side had told the Pakistani delegation that due to the high demand expected, at least 5,000 pilgrims should be allowed to visit Kartarpur Sahib each day.

The Indian delegation was led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in Ministry of Home Affairs and Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary (PAI--Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) in Ministry of External Affairs.&nbsp;

"Pakistan side has assured our delegation in response to the request made that no anti-India activity will be allowed by them," SCL Das said.

"The Government is fully confident that India would be ready to commence the pilgrimage through <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kartarpur-talks-pakistan-removes-khalistani-radical-gopal-singh-chawala-from-top-pakistan-sikh-body-under-pressure-from-india-235410">Kartarpur corridor </a>on the auspicious occasion of the 550th birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji," he added.

The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

Watch: India-Pak hold meet on Kartarpur corridor

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The first round of talks was held in Attari on March 14 in the shadow of escalating bilateral tensions following the Pulwama terror attack by a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed on February 14.

India had urged Pakistan to take into consideration the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-talks-india-to-focus-on-facilities-for-pilgrims-234441">sentiments of the pilgrims</a> to have smooth, easy, unrestricted access throughout the year to be able to visit the Holy Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib. In this context, the following requests were reiterated:

1: 5,000 pilgrims be allowed to visit Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor every day given the expected high demand on our side. 
2: 10,000 additional pilgrims be allowed to visit on special occasions. 
3: There should be no restrictions on the pilgrims in terms of their faith. 
4: Not only Indian nationals but also the Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) holding OCI cards be allowed to use the Kartarpur Corridor facility. 
5: The movement should be visa-free and Pakistan should reconsider charging any fee or introducing any permit system. 
6: Pilgrims should be allowed to visit throughout the year, seven days a week. 
7: Pilgrims should have the choice to visit as individuals or in a group. 
8: Pilgrims should have the choice to visit on-foot on pilgrimage to the holy shrine. 
9: Provisions should be made for the preparation and distribution of langar and prasad for the pilgrims.

Pakistan delegation in Wagah on Sunday agreed to allow visa-free, year-long travel to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card holders.

Pakistan delegation in Wagah on Sunday agreed to allow visa-free, year-long travel to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card holders. Pakistan has also agreed to allow 5,000 pilgrims, every day, to visit the Gurdwara on foot, both as individuals or in groups, Home Ministry's Joint Secretary (Internal Security) SCL Das told reporters in a press conference. Pakistan has also agreed to build a bridge on its side. The Indian side had told the Pakistani delegation that due to the high demand expected, at least 5,000 pilgrims should be allowed to visit Kartarpur Sahib each day. The Indian delegation was led by SCL Das, Joint Secretary (Internal Security) in Ministry of Home Affairs and Deepak Mittal, Joint Secretary (PAI--Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran) in Ministry of External Affairs. "Pakistan side has assured our delegation in response to the request made that no anti-India activity will be allowed by them," SCL Das said. "The Government is fully confident that India would be ready to commence the pilgrimage through Kartarpur corridor on the auspicious occasion of the 550th birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji," he added. The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev. Watch: India-Pak hold meet on Kartarpur corridor × The first round of talks was held in Attari on March 14 in the shadow of escalating bilateral tensions following the Pulwama terror attack by a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed on February 14. India had urged Pakistan to take into consideration the sentiments of the pilgrims to have smooth, easy, unrestricted access throughout the year to be able to visit the Holy Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib. In this context, the following requests were reiterated: 1: 5,000 pilgrims be allowed to visit Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib using the corridor every day given the expected high demand on our side. 2: 10,000 additional pilgrims be allowed to visit on special occasions. 3: There should be no restrictions on the pilgrims in terms of their faith. 4: Not only Indian nationals but also the Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) holding OCI cards be allowed to use the Kartarpur Corridor facility. 5: The movement should be visa-free and Pakistan should reconsider charging any fee or introducing any permit system. 6: Pilgrims should be allowed to visit throughout the year, seven days a week. 7: Pilgrims should have the choice to visit as individuals or in a group. 8: Pilgrims should have the choice to visit on-foot on pilgrimage to the holy shrine. 9: Provisions should be made for the preparation and distribution of langar and prasad for the pilgrims.

Kartarpur corridor talks round two ends; Pakistan agrees to 5000 pilgrims daily

India will be raising the issues related to providing facilities for pilgrims which includes allowing a large number of pilgrims access to the Kartarpur gurudwara through the corridor in the upcoming India-Pakistan officials meet in Wagah, Pakistan.

India had&nbsp;proposed 5000 pilgrims per day which Pakistan is not keen on saying it can allow only 700 people on designated days with a permit.

This is the second meet of the officials that will take place, the first happened in March on the Indian side of the Wagah Attari border. Three rounds of technical meetings have already taken place between both sides.&nbsp;

India has also asked Islamabad to build a bridge on its side that will provide safe movement of pilgrims but also address the issue regarding flooding. New Delhi is concerned about possible flooding of Dera Baba Nanak due to the construction of an embankment filled road on the Pakistan side that may cause flooding on the Indian side. This issue has been raised by New Delhi in the three technical meetings.

India is currently engaged in building a bridge on its side to provide for all weather connectivity for the Kartarpur corridor.&nbsp;

Work on the Indian side of the corridor is going on a fast pace with India building a passenger terminal building which is expected to be completed by 31 October 2019 and a four-lane highway connecting zero points at India-Pakistan border of the corridor with national highway 354.

The deadline for completion of the highway is September 30 2019, and as of now, 45% of work has been completed.

The total cost of the bus terminal and road is Rs 297.5 crore.

India will be raising the issues related to providing facilities for pilgrims which includes allowing a large number of pilgrims access to the Kartarpur gurudwara through the corridor in the upcoming India-Pakistan officials meet in Wagah, Pakistan.

India will be raising the issues related to providing facilities for pilgrims which includes allowing a large number of pilgrims access to the Kartarpur gurudwara through the corridor in the upcoming India-Pakistan officials meet in Wagah, Pakistan. India had proposed 5000 pilgrims per day which Pakistan is not keen on saying it can allow only 700 people on designated days with a permit. This is the second meet of the officials that will take place, the first happened in March on the Indian side of the Wagah Attari border. Three rounds of technical meetings have already taken place between both sides. India has also asked Islamabad to build a bridge on its side that will provide safe movement of pilgrims but also address the issue regarding flooding. New Delhi is concerned about possible flooding of Dera Baba Nanak due to the construction of an embankment filled road on the Pakistan side that may cause flooding on the Indian side. This issue has been raised by New Delhi in the three technical meetings. India is currently engaged in building a bridge on its side to provide for all weather connectivity for the Kartarpur corridor. Work on the Indian side of the corridor is going on a fast pace with India building a passenger terminal building which is expected to be completed by 31 October 2019 and a four-lane highway connecting zero points at India-Pakistan border of the corridor with national highway 354. The deadline for completion of the highway is September 30 2019, and as of now, 45% of work has been completed. The total cost of the bus terminal and road is Rs 297.5 crore.

Kartarpur corridor talks: India to focus on facilities for pilgrims

The second India-Pakistan talk on the modalities of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-sahib-corridor-will-be-completed-by-september-punjab-minister-223528">Kartarpur Corridor</a> will take place on July 14 at Wagah, Pakistan.

New Delhi, last week, had proposed to Islamabad <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-talks-india-proposes-meeting-with-pakistan-officials-in-july-231586">any date between July 11 and 14 for the talks</a>.

Remember, the second round of talks was originally expected to happen on April 2 but India had postponed the talks as Pakistan had appointed Khalistani elements on a committee associated with the corridor.

The focus of the upcoming meeting would be to discuss the draft agreement on the corridor which includes the movement of pilgrims, the alignment and the infrastructure along the corridor.

The first round of India-Pakistan official talks on the corridor took place on March &nbsp;14, 2019, on the Indian side of the Attari-Wagah border.

India, during the first round of talks, had proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5,000 people should be allowed every day. Pakistan, on the other hand, said it can allow only 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit. The Indian passport will be proof of the identity of the visitors.

While this is the second round of India-Pakistan official meeting, three rounds of technical-level talks between the officials of both the countries have already happened to discuss issues such as the alignment of the corridor &nbsp;- both the sides agreed in November last year.

India has already completed 45 per cent of the corridor on its side of the border and is building a 4-lane highway and a passenger bus terminal.&nbsp;

The deadline for the construction of the entire project is October 2019, just a month ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in November.

The second India-Pakistan talk on the modalities of the Kartarpur Corridor will take place on July 14 at Wagah, Pakistan. New Delhi, last week, had proposed to Islamabad any date between July 11 and 14 for the talks.

The second India-Pakistan talk on the modalities of the Kartarpur Corridor will take place on July 14 at Wagah, Pakistan. New Delhi, last week, had proposed to Islamabad any date between July 11 and 14 for the talks. Remember, the second round of talks was originally expected to happen on April 2 but India had postponed the talks as Pakistan had appointed Khalistani elements on a committee associated with the corridor. The focus of the upcoming meeting would be to discuss the draft agreement on the corridor which includes the movement of pilgrims, the alignment and the infrastructure along the corridor. The first round of India-Pakistan official talks on the corridor took place on March 14, 2019, on the Indian side of the Attari-Wagah border. India, during the first round of talks, had proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5,000 people should be allowed every day. Pakistan, on the other hand, said it can allow only 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit. The Indian passport will be proof of the identity of the visitors. While this is the second round of India-Pakistan official meeting, three rounds of technical-level talks between the officials of both the countries have already happened to discuss issues such as the alignment of the corridor - both the sides agreed in November last year. India has already completed 45 per cent of the corridor on its side of the border and is building a 4-lane highway and a passenger bus terminal. The deadline for the construction of the entire project is October 2019, just a month ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in November.

Kartarpur Corridor talks: Second round of India-Pakistan official meet on July 14

A Sikh leader in Pakistan has lauded the government's decision to allow double entry visa facility to 10,000 pilgrims from the community to visit the historic shrine in Kartarpur on the occasion of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, according to a media report.

Last week, the Pakistan government has earmarked Rs 100 crore in the federal budget 2019-20 for the development of the much-awaited corridor.

Provincial Parliamentary Secretary of Punjab Sardar Mahendar Paal Singh said that Kartarpur Corridor- which was the longstanding desire of the community globally for the last seventy years, especially from India particularly in view of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev would be observed on November 6, Dunya News reported.

The Kartarpur corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-invites-sikh-community-to-invest-in-commercial-projects-along-nankana-kartarpur-corridor-190177">Sikh pilgrims</a>, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.

Talking about government's recent initiatives regarding promotion of religious tourism especially visa facilitation, online visas and visas on arrival, Singh has said that this initiative would benefit tens of thousands of Sikh pilgrims every year and promote interfaith harmony, it added.

He also lauded the government's decision to allow double entry visa facility to 10,000 Sikh pilgrims to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the report added. PTI AMS AKJ&nbsp;

A Sikh leader in Pakistan has lauded the government's decision to allow double entry visa facility to 10,000 pilgrims from the community to visit the historic shrine in Kartarpur on the occasion of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, according to a media report.

A Sikh leader in Pakistan has lauded the government's decision to allow double entry visa facility to 10,000 pilgrims from the community to visit the historic shrine in Kartarpur on the occasion of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, according to a media report. Last week, the Pakistan government has earmarked Rs 100 crore in the federal budget 2019-20 for the development of the much-awaited corridor. Provincial Parliamentary Secretary of Punjab Sardar Mahendar Paal Singh said that Kartarpur Corridor- which was the longstanding desire of the community globally for the last seventy years, especially from India particularly in view of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev would be observed on November 6, Dunya News reported. The Kartarpur corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev. Talking about government's recent initiatives regarding promotion of religious tourism especially visa facilitation, online visas and visas on arrival, Singh has said that this initiative would benefit tens of thousands of Sikh pilgrims every year and promote interfaith harmony, it added. He also lauded the government's decision to allow double entry visa facility to 10,000 Sikh pilgrims to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the report added. PTI AMS AKJ

Pakistan Sikh leader lauds government's decision to allow double entry visa to 10,000 pilgrims to Kartarpur

A 500-year-old well, believed to have been built during the lifetime of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev, has been discovered at the enclosure of a gurdwara on the Kartarpur corridor which will facilitate easy passage of Sikh pilgrims to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan.

The well was discovered while digging the enclosure of Gurdwara Dera Sahib Kartarpur, some 125 kilometres from Lahore, on the Kartarpur corridor, caretaker of gurdwara Sardar Gobind Singh told reporters.

The 20-foot well, made of small red bricks and believed to have been built during the lifetime of Guru Nanak Dev, will be opened to the visitors after its restoration, he said.

"The well (Khu sahib) is a boon for the Sikh pilgrims who would flock to the place on Baisakhi and other occasions and take away its sweet water. The water of the well had healing quality," Singh said.

"It will also be a great attraction for the Indian Sikhs due here on the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak," he said.

<img alt="Kartarpur corridor well" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="45ae9dc6-e069-410b-a866-4650dba64000" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2825%29_0.jpg" />

<img alt="Kartarpur corridor well" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a40f6ad8-a096-40e4-bbcd-85483652dc81" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2824%29_0.jpg" />

<img alt="Kartarpur corridor well" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="351cbc7a-1266-4513-8147-6cef1adc3a9c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2823%29_0.jpg" />

(Picture courtesy: WION)

The year 2019 marks the 550th birth anniversary year of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev, whose birthplace is Sri Nankana Sahib in Pakistan.

Last November, both India and Pakistan agreed to set up the Kartarpur corridor to link the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib - the final resting place of Guru Nanak - in Pakistani town of Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.

Kartarpur Sahib is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine.

The corridor will facilitate visa-free travel of Indian Sikh pilgrims to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur.

Pakistan has committed to open the corridor in November this year on the occasion of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak.

"During the time of Baba Guru Nanak the water of this well was so sweet that the Sikh pilgrims believed that it was the gift of the founding leader and could rid them of ailments," caretaker Singh said.

According to officials, some 50 per cent of the development work on the four-kilometre stretch being built by Pakistan has been completed.

The stretch between the zero line to Baba Nanak's shrine is being built by India.

On November 26 last year, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone of the Dera Baba Nanak - Kartarpur Sahib Corridor (up to the International Border) at an event at Mann village of Gurdaspur district of Punjab.

On November 28, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone for the 4-kilometer corridor which is expected to be completed by 2019.

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.&nbsp;

A 500-year-old well, believed to have been built during the lifetime of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev, has been discovered at the enclosure of a gurdwara on the Kartarpur corridor which will facilitate easy passage of Sikh pilgrims to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan.

A 500-year-old well, believed to have been built during the lifetime of the founder of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev, has been discovered at the enclosure of a gurdwara on the Kartarpur corridor which will facilitate easy passage of Sikh pilgrims to the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan. The well was discovered while digging the enclosure of Gurdwara Dera Sahib Kartarpur, some 125 kilometres from Lahore, on the Kartarpur corridor, caretaker of gurdwara Sardar Gobind Singh told reporters. The 20-foot well, made of small red bricks and believed to have been built during the lifetime of Guru Nanak Dev, will be opened to the visitors after its restoration, he said. "The well (Khu sahib) is a boon for the Sikh pilgrims who would flock to the place on Baisakhi and other occasions and take away its sweet water. The water of the well had healing quality," Singh said. "It will also be a great attraction for the Indian Sikhs due here on the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak," he said. (Picture courtesy: WION) The year 2019 marks the 550th birth anniversary year of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak Dev, whose birthplace is Sri Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. Last November, both India and Pakistan agreed to set up the Kartarpur corridor to link the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib - the final resting place of Guru Nanak - in Pakistani town of Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. Kartarpur Sahib is located in Pakistan's Narowal district across the river Ravi, about four kilometres from the Dera Baba Nanak shrine. The corridor will facilitate visa-free travel of Indian Sikh pilgrims to the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur. Pakistan has committed to open the corridor in November this year on the occasion of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak. "During the time of Baba Guru Nanak the water of this well was so sweet that the Sikh pilgrims believed that it was the gift of the founding leader and could rid them of ailments," caretaker Singh said. According to officials, some 50 per cent of the development work on the four-kilometre stretch being built by Pakistan has been completed. The stretch between the zero line to Baba Nanak's shrine is being built by India. On November 26 last year, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone of the Dera Baba Nanak - Kartarpur Sahib Corridor (up to the International Border) at an event at Mann village of Gurdaspur district of Punjab. On November 28, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone for the 4-kilometer corridor which is expected to be completed by 2019. The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.

500-year-old well discovered near gurdwara on Kartarpur corridor in Pakistan

The second technical level talks on the Kartarpur corridor took place on Tuesday at the 'zero point' at Dera Baba Nanak border. Engineers and other officials were present during the meeting.&nbsp;

India has offered to make a flyover from Darshni Sthal, from where the holy site could be seen from the Indian side, till the 'zero point' where India-Pak corridors meet.

India had proposed Tuesday's meeting to address the outstanding technical issues. Currently, the project is being implemented on the ground with speed.

The first meet took place last month on March 19. During that meeting, which included engineers and surveyors, the survey of the site was done and the alignment of the corridor was also discussed.

Last month, India had postponed the second India-Pakistan official talks on Kartarpur corridor after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-keeps-mum-on-indias-concerns-over-presence-of-khalistani-separatists-on-kartarpur-panel-207936">New Delhi raised concerns over the presence of Khalistanis on Pakistan's committee</a> that will oversee the implementation of the corridor.

The first India-Pak officials' meet took place on March 14. India had then proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5,000 people allowed every day.&nbsp;

Islamabad wasn't keen on the Indian proposal saying they can only allow 700 people, that too only Indian citizens, on designated days with a paid permit.

India has already clarified that the talks do not mean the resumption of a dialogue process. The corridor has been a long-standing demand of Indian citizens of Sikh faith. Pakistan agreed to the demand after India announced last year in November that it will build the corridor.

The second technical level talks on the Kartarpur corridor took place on Tuesday at the 'zero point' at Dera Baba Nanak border. Engineers and other officials were present during the meeting.

The second technical level talks on the Kartarpur corridor took place on Tuesday at the 'zero point' at Dera Baba Nanak border. Engineers and other officials were present during the meeting. India has offered to make a flyover from Darshni Sthal, from where the holy site could be seen from the Indian side, till the 'zero point' where India-Pak corridors meet. India had proposed Tuesday's meeting to address the outstanding technical issues. Currently, the project is being implemented on the ground with speed. The first meet took place last month on March 19. During that meeting, which included engineers and surveyors, the survey of the site was done and the alignment of the corridor was also discussed. Last month, India had postponed the second India-Pakistan official talks on Kartarpur corridor after New Delhi raised concerns over the presence of Khalistanis on Pakistan's committee that will oversee the implementation of the corridor. The first India-Pak officials' meet took place on March 14. India had then proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5,000 people allowed every day. Islamabad wasn't keen on the Indian proposal saying they can only allow 700 people, that too only Indian citizens, on designated days with a paid permit. India has already clarified that the talks do not mean the resumption of a dialogue process. The corridor has been a long-standing demand of Indian citizens of Sikh faith. Pakistan agreed to the demand after India announced last year in November that it will build the corridor.

Second India-Pak technical talks on Kartarpur corridor conclude

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