Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reacted sharply to Raghuram Rajan's views on the slowdown of the Indian economy. Rajan was appointed Governor of Reserve Bank of India in 2013 during UPA 2, headed by Manmohan Singh.

Now, he is going about saying that the Modi Government lacks vision on economic growth.

Addressing a select gathering at the Consulate General of India in New York City recently, the Finance Minister hit back by categorically stating that it was during Raghuram Rajan's time that huge loans were disbursed only on a phone call from crony leaders.

Taking a dig at Manmohan Singh, who was the Prime Minister when all this was happening, Sitharaman said that Manmohan Singh is supposed to have an articulated vision of the Indian economy. She also observed that Indian Public Sector banks did not have the worst phase than when there was this combination of Manmohan Singh as Prime Minister and Raghuram Rajan as Governor of Reserve Bank of India.

On what ails our banks today and what is the genesis of the bad loan crisis. the Finance Minister said Dr Rajan had himself told a Parliamentary Panel that a large number of bad loans could be linked to the period between 2006 and 2008. This is the time when Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister - so where should the buck stop?

After winning the Nobel Prize in Economics, Abhijit Banerjee is reported to have said: "Indian economy is on shaky ground." "In the last five-six years, at least we could witness some growth, but now that assurance is also gone."

According to Banerjee, in the short term, Modi government policies are not highly simulating. Besides Ujjwala, the other flagship schemes of the Modi Government are not putting cash in the hands of anybody.

If the Finance Minister were to take his advice, Banerjee said that he would probably say, "Get some more money in the hands of the poor and they will spend it."

Its all about increasing consumption but we don’t increase consumption by increasing bank accounts. On the consumption front, both Banerjee and Raghuram Rajan perfectly gel and have the same take. But this is looking at the problem - the state of the national economy - through the keyhole.

Running a country with a vision is more important than building a short-term road map only to woo the voters. The pitfalls of short term policies notwithstanding, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has chosen to stick to the same plank crafted by the likes of Banerjee and Rajan.

During campaigning for the Maharashtra and Haryana State Assembly election, Rahul Gandhi again took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Government while taking credit for Mahatma Gandhi Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme that was introduced by the Manmohan Singh Government to ensure money directly reached the poor in the countryside.

Then Rahul had also upped his campaign for the 2019 Parliamentary election by announcing the NYAY scheme, which Abhijit Banerjee had helped conceptualise. After the people of India have rejected this scheme and shown the Congress party its place, Banerjee is again advocating the idea of direct money transfer in a big way. And Rahul is trying to play the game of one-upmanship with Modi on the agenda of neo-patrimonialism.

People appear fully capable of seeing through all this and as far as the outcome of the general election to the State Assemblies of Maharashtra and Haryana is concerned, for the main Opposition Congress, the writing is clear on the wall.

More about Abhijit and his observations about the present state of Indian economy would follow on the basis of analysis of past follies, including the way policies influenced by the Global Research Centre founded by Banerjee and company in the US were tested in a State like Madhya Pradesh - the central Indian State - 1999 onwards and how the people had rejected a popularly elected government moving on this path in the 2003 election, when Madhya Pradesh had the potential but was still devoid of the economic infrastructure and lacked a positive track record in terms of human resource development, which is so essential for economic growth.

1999 was the starting point in Madhya Pradesh when the then State government focused only on imparting training to teachers at the primary school level and totally neglected the issue of schools devoid of basic facilities. There was also a lopsided approach when it came to building the infrastructure and human resource development for the sake of economic growth. In the process, a whole generation has now multiplied in geometric progression, which is barely able to sustain itself and the quality of life for a big section of the population remains a far cry. It is unfortunate that political games are being played over&nbsp;the state of the economy and even acclaimed economists have become a party to political machinations.

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reacted sharply to Raghuram Rajan's views on the slowdown of the Indian economy. Rajan was appointed Governor of Reserve Bank of India in 2013 during UPA 2, headed by Manmohan Singh.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reacted sharply to Raghuram Rajan's views on the slowdown of the Indian economy. Rajan was appointed Governor of Reserve Bank of India in 2013 during UPA 2, headed by Manmohan Singh. Now, he is going about saying that the Modi Government lacks vision on economic growth. Addressing a select gathering at the Consulate General of India in New York City recently, the Finance Minister hit back by categorically stating that it was during Raghuram Rajan's time that huge loans were disbursed only on a phone call from crony leaders. Taking a dig at Manmohan Singh, who was the Prime Minister when all this was happening, Sitharaman said that Manmohan Singh is supposed to have an articulated vision of the Indian economy. She also observed that Indian Public Sector banks did not have the worst phase than when there was this combination of Manmohan Singh as Prime Minister and Raghuram Rajan as Governor of Reserve Bank of India. On what ails our banks today and what is the genesis of the bad loan crisis. the Finance Minister said Dr Rajan had himself told a Parliamentary Panel that a large number of bad loans could be linked to the period between 2006 and 2008. This is the time when Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister - so where should the buck stop? After winning the Nobel Prize in Economics, Abhijit Banerjee is reported to have said: "Indian economy is on shaky ground." "In the last five-six years, at least we could witness some growth, but now that assurance is also gone." According to Banerjee, in the short term, Modi government policies are not highly simulating. Besides Ujjwala, the other flagship schemes of the Modi Government are not putting cash in the hands of anybody. If the Finance Minister were to take his advice, Banerjee said that he would probably say, "Get some more money in the hands of the poor and they will spend it." Its all about increasing consumption but we don’t increase consumption by increasing bank accounts. On the consumption front, both Banerjee and Raghuram Rajan perfectly gel and have the same take. But this is looking at the problem - the state of the national economy - through the keyhole. Running a country with a vision is more important than building a short-term road map only to woo the voters. The pitfalls of short term policies notwithstanding, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has chosen to stick to the same plank crafted by the likes of Banerjee and Rajan. During campaigning for the Maharashtra and Haryana State Assembly election, Rahul Gandhi again took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Government while taking credit for Mahatma Gandhi Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme that was introduced by the Manmohan Singh Government to ensure money directly reached the poor in the countryside. Then Rahul had also upped his campaign for the 2019 Parliamentary election by announcing the NYAY scheme, which Abhijit Banerjee had helped conceptualise. After the people of India have rejected this scheme and shown the Congress party its place, Banerjee is again advocating the idea of direct money transfer in a big way. And Rahul is trying to play the game of one-upmanship with Modi on the agenda of neo-patrimonialism. People appear fully capable of seeing through all this and as far as the outcome of the general election to the State Assemblies of Maharashtra and Haryana is concerned, for the main Opposition Congress, the writing is clear on the wall. More about Abhijit and his observations about the present state of Indian economy would follow on the basis of analysis of past follies, including the way policies influenced by the Global Research Centre founded by Banerjee and company in the US were tested in a State like Madhya Pradesh - the central Indian State - 1999 onwards and how the people had rejected a popularly elected government moving on this path in the 2003 election, when Madhya Pradesh had the potential but was still devoid of the economic infrastructure and lacked a positive track record in terms of human resource development, which is so essential for economic growth. 1999 was the starting point in Madhya Pradesh when the then State government focused only on imparting training to teachers at the primary school level and totally neglected the issue of schools devoid of basic facilities. There was also a lopsided approach when it came to building the infrastructure and human resource development for the sake of economic growth. In the process, a whole generation has now multiplied in geometric progression, which is barely able to sustain itself and the quality of life for a big section of the population remains a far cry. It is unfortunate that political games are being played over the state of the economy and even acclaimed economists have become a party to political machinations. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Indian economy not immune to blemishes of politicisation

'Manmohan Singh to visit Kartarpur Gurdwara as a visitor' says Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Watch video to know more.

'Manmohan Singh to visit Kartarpur Gurdwara as a visitor' says Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday slammed Congress over former prime minister Manmohan Singh`s comment that Congress had voted in favour of the dilution of Article 370 in Parliament and had opposed the manner in which Article 370 was abrogated, saying the opposition party has used a senior leader to deliver such statement which is a "lie".

"I am extremely sad to learn that Congress used such a senior leader to deliver a statement on the matter of abrogation of Article 370. Singh has been defamed for his comment. The senior leader was asked to lie in front of everyone, this is extremely sad," Naqvi told ANI.

Singh had told reporters in Mumbai on Thursday that party had voted in favour of the dilution of Article 370 in Parliament but was opposed to the high-handed manner in which the government had done it.

Naqvi also targeted Singh for his comment about lack of hope about Indian economy reaching the target of five trillion dollars by 2024.

Naqvi said people were facing high inflation during the rule of Congress-led UPA and economy too was not doing well. "During Modi-led BJP`s term, the party has made sure that people do not face problems. The foundations of our economy are now strong and people who could not handle the economy well should not give us lessons about it," said Naqvi.&nbsp;

Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday slammed Congress over former prime minister Manmohan Singh`s comment that Congress had voted in favour of the dilution of Article 370 in Parliament and had opposed the manner in which Article 370 was abrogated, saying the opposition party has used a senior leader to deliver such statement which is a "lie".

Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday slammed Congress over former prime minister Manmohan Singh`s comment that Congress had voted in favour of the dilution of Article 370 in Parliament and had opposed the manner in which Article 370 was abrogated, saying the opposition party has used a senior leader to deliver such statement which is a "lie". "I am extremely sad to learn that Congress used such a senior leader to deliver a statement on the matter of abrogation of Article 370. Singh has been defamed for his comment. The senior leader was asked to lie in front of everyone, this is extremely sad," Naqvi told ANI. Singh had told reporters in Mumbai on Thursday that party had voted in favour of the dilution of Article 370 in Parliament but was opposed to the high-handed manner in which the government had done it. Naqvi also targeted Singh for his comment about lack of hope about Indian economy reaching the target of five trillion dollars by 2024. Naqvi said people were facing high inflation during the rule of Congress-led UPA and economy too was not doing well. "During Modi-led BJP`s term, the party has made sure that people do not face problems. The foundations of our economy are now strong and people who could not handle the economy well should not give us lessons about it," said Naqvi.

Naqvi slams Congress over Manmohan Singh's remarks on Article 370

Training guns at the Congress party, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that former prime minister Manmohan Singh-led government had totally failed on all economic parameters.

"When we (BJP) came to power, we inherited an economy with double-digit inflation. During Manmohan Singh government, the fiscal deficit was over 6.1 per cent and the current account deficit was over 2 per cent. In every economic parameter, the Manmohan Singh government had failed completely," he said.

"In spite of being such an eminent economist, Manmohan Singh reflected either some compulsions or complete lack of understanding of economics and business. Of course, it doesn't surprise me because we saw some of the worst scams and governance under the UPA regime," Goyal said.

In view of the impending Assembly elections in Maharashtra, Goyal also took a dig at former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan saying his government was "non-functional" in the state.

"UPA gave a double-engine government at the Centre and in Maharashtra, double-engine of corruption, ineptitude and bad governance, inefficiency and infighting within the alliance," he added.

The Union Minister said, in contrast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government and Devendra Fadnavis' government in Maharashtra have worked together to revive the economy.

Goyal's comments come merely hours after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh slammed the BJP government over a range of issues including economic slowdown, abrogation of Article 370 and PMC Bank crisis.

Training guns at the Congress party, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that former prime minister Manmohan Singh-led government had totally failed on all economic parameters.

Training guns at the Congress party, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that former prime minister Manmohan Singh-led government had totally failed on all economic parameters. "When we (BJP) came to power, we inherited an economy with double-digit inflation. During Manmohan Singh government, the fiscal deficit was over 6.1 per cent and the current account deficit was over 2 per cent. In every economic parameter, the Manmohan Singh government had failed completely," he said. "In spite of being such an eminent economist, Manmohan Singh reflected either some compulsions or complete lack of understanding of economics and business. Of course, it doesn't surprise me because we saw some of the worst scams and governance under the UPA regime," Goyal said. In view of the impending Assembly elections in Maharashtra, Goyal also took a dig at former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan saying his government was "non-functional" in the state. "UPA gave a double-engine government at the Centre and in Maharashtra, double-engine of corruption, ineptitude and bad governance, inefficiency and infighting within the alliance," he added. The Union Minister said, in contrast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government and Devendra Fadnavis' government in Maharashtra have worked together to revive the economy. Goyal's comments come merely hours after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh slammed the BJP government over a range of issues including economic slowdown, abrogation of Article 370 and PMC Bank crisis.

Manmohan Singh government had totally failed on every economic parameter: Piyush Goyal

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Anand Sharma, and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here.

During the meeting, party sources told ANI that the Congress leaders are expected to discuss ways to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Hasina is on a four-day visit to India. She is the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh and returned to power for a second term in 2009 when the Congress-led UPA government was in power. Manmohan Singh had visited Bangladesh as Prime Minister in 2011.

Sheikh Hasina conducted a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Anand Sharma, and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party, including Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Anand Sharma, and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here. During the meeting, party sources told ANI that the Congress leaders are expected to discuss ways to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Hasina is on a four-day visit to India. She is the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh and returned to power for a second term in 2009 when the Congress-led UPA government was in power. Manmohan Singh had visited Bangladesh as Prime Minister in 2011. Sheikh Hasina conducted a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday.

Sheikh Hasina meets Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka, Manmohan Singh

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 Manmohan Singh To Go To Kartarpur Shrine: Former PM Accepts Punjab CM's Visit Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan. Dr Singh has accepted an invitation from Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh. This report decodes the politics and optics of this visit.

Gravitas: Former Pm Manmohan Singh To Visit Kartarpur Shrine

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday ruled out a visit to Pakistan for the Kartarpur Corridor opening, making it clear that he would be only leading the first all-party Jatha to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara to pay obeisance.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Thursday ruled out a visit to Pakistan for the Kartarpur Corridor opening, making it clear that he would be only leading the first all-party Jatha to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara to pay obeisance. Amid reports incorrectly suggesting that Dr. Manmohan Singh had accepted Pakistan’s invitation to go there for the opening of Kartarpur Corridor, the Punjab chief minister told mediapersons that he did not believe the former prime minister had any such plans. “There is no question of me going (to Pakistan for Kartarpur corridor opening) and I feel Dr Manmohan Singh will not go as well,” he said, pointing out that there was a huge difference between visiting Pakistan and going to the gurdwara through the Corridor. The chief minister’s remarks came in response to questions after a section of the media erroneously claimed that Dr Singh had accepted Pakistan invite and would be going across the border for the Kartarpur Corridor inauguration. The fact was that Dr Singh had accepted Captain Amarinder’s invitation to join the Jatha, to be led by the chief minister, through the Kartarpur Corridor, to pay obeisance at the historic gurdwara across the border on the occasion of the 550th birth anniversary celebrations of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji, an official spokesperson pointed out. As far as visiting Pakistan is concerned, the chief minister reiterated that he would not go there till Pakistan stops cross border terrorism. He said Punjab was the worst sufferer of Pakistan’s cross border terrorism and he cannot think of going there till it stops. The Chief Minister had, earlier in the day, called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind and former PM Dr Manmohan Singh to extend a formal invitation to participate in the main events organised by the state government to mark the historic occasion. Both Modi and Kovind had accepted the invite, while Dr. Singh had also agreed to join the Jatha that would go to the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara on the opening day of the Corridor. Asked if Pakistan was playing a dirty game over the Kartarpur Corridor, the Chief Minister told the media persons to put this question to their prime minister Imran Khan. India, on its part, was fully geared to ensure the security and safety of the pilgrims, he added.

Manmohan Singh not going to Pakistan for Kartarpur Corridor opening ceremony, clarifies Amarinder Singh

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

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday administered a cleanliness oath to people at an event organised in Delhi Cantonment on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-the-champion-of-non-violent-activism-253152">150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi</a>.

"I will neither pollute the environment nor let anyone do that. I will spread the message of Swachh Bharat Mission to every corner of every village and street. I will administer this oath to 100 people. The step taken by me towards cleanliness will keep my surroundings clean that would help to maintain India clean," read the oath administered to people by Singh.

Earlier in the morning, the Defence Minister paid tributes to the late leader. "We bow to him (Gandhi) for his tremendous contribution in shaping the destiny of this country. My heartfelt tributes to Bapu on his jayanti," he tweeted.

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महात्मा गांधी की १५०वीं जयंती की सभी देश वासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ। 
 
Greetings to everyone on the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. We bow to him for his tremendous contribution in shaping the destiny of this country. 
 
My heartfelt tributes to Bapu on his jayanti.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1179228560395046917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to the Father of the Nation.

Many other dignitaries including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani also reached Rajghat to pay respects to Gandhi.

Both Congress and BJP are organising a number of events throughout the country to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months.

As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will culminate on January 31, 2020. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and October 31.

Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary.

Posters, banners and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters.

PM Modi is scheduled to kick-off the program from Gujarat.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday administered a cleanliness oath to people at an event organised in Delhi Cantonment on the occasion of 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday administered a cleanliness oath to people at an event organised in Delhi Cantonment on the occasion of 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. "I will neither pollute the environment nor let anyone do that. I will spread the message of Swachh Bharat Mission to every corner of every village and street. I will administer this oath to 100 people. The step taken by me towards cleanliness will keep my surroundings clean that would help to maintain India clean," read the oath administered to people by Singh. Earlier in the morning, the Defence Minister paid tributes to the late leader. "We bow to him (Gandhi) for his tremendous contribution in shaping the destiny of this country. My heartfelt tributes to Bapu on his jayanti," he tweeted. महात्मा गांधी की १५०वीं जयंती की सभी देश वासियों को हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ। Greetings to everyone on the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. We bow to him for his tremendous contribution in shaping the destiny of this country. My heartfelt tributes to Bapu on his jayanti. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 2, 2019 × President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to the Father of the Nation. Many other dignitaries including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani also reached Rajghat to pay respects to Gandhi. Both Congress and BJP are organising a number of events throughout the country to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will culminate on January 31, 2020. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and October 31. Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. PM Modi is scheduled to kick-off the program from Gujarat.

Gandhi Jayanti: Rajnath administers cleanliness oath to people at Delhi Cantonment

&nbsp;

India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday&nbsp;refused Pakistan's invite to attend the inauguration ceremony of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kartarpur-corridor-construction-in-full-swing-will-open-in-november-201710">Kartarpur corridor</a> in November.

Newswire ANI quoting Congress sources reported that the former Indian prime minister had rejected Pakistan's invite.

Earlier, cricketer-turned-politician BJP MP Gautam Gambhir had termed Pakistan's invite to Manmohan Singh as a "political move".

"It is up to the Congress to decide whether they want to send Dr Singh or not. Navjot Singh Sidhu went and hugged General Bajwa and only one person opposed that move - Captain Amarinder Singh," Gambhir had said earlier.

On Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's recent tirade against India at the UNGA, Gambhir tweeted, saying: "Sportspeople are supposed to be role models. Of good behavior. Of Team spirit. Of ethics. Of strength of character. Recently in the UN, we also saw a former sportsperson speak up. As a role model for terrorists. Imran Khan should be excommunicated from the sports community."

Punjab minister Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa had said earlier that Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, along with his cabinet and several other MLAs and central government representatives would be visiting the Kartarpur Corridor on the day of its opening.

Pakistan has said it would be opening the Kartarpur corridor for pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan on November 9.

The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and 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.

India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday refused Pakistan's invite to attend the inauguration ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor in November. Newswire ANI quoting Congress sources reported that the former Indian prime minister had rejected Pakistan's invite.

India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday refused Pakistan's invite to attend the inauguration ceremony of the Kartarpur corridor in November. Newswire ANI quoting Congress sources reported that the former Indian prime minister had rejected Pakistan's invite. Earlier, cricketer-turned-politician BJP MP Gautam Gambhir had termed Pakistan's invite to Manmohan Singh as a "political move". "It is up to the Congress to decide whether they want to send Dr Singh or not. Navjot Singh Sidhu went and hugged General Bajwa and only one person opposed that move - Captain Amarinder Singh," Gambhir had said earlier. On Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's recent tirade against India at the UNGA, Gambhir tweeted, saying: "Sportspeople are supposed to be role models. Of good behavior. Of Team spirit. Of ethics. Of strength of character. Recently in the UN, we also saw a former sportsperson speak up. As a role model for terrorists. Imran Khan should be excommunicated from the sports community." Punjab minister Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa had said earlier that Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, along with his cabinet and several other MLAs and central government representatives would be visiting the Kartarpur Corridor on the day of its opening. Pakistan has said it would be opening the Kartarpur corridor for pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan on November 9. The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and 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.

Former PM Manmohan Singh declines Pak invite to attend Kartarupur inauguration ceremony

Wishes pour in on social media for former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh as he turned 87 on Thursday.

A couple of hashtags related to the senior Congress leader's birthday started making in the top India trends on Twitter as his well-wishers flooded the microblogging site with their best wishes.

Several political party leaders came forward to extend their wishes to the former prime minister. Many hailed him for his achievements.

Taking to Twitter, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi acknowledged Singh's "selfless service, dedication and incredible contribution" in developing the country and prayed for his good health.

"On his birthday, let us acknowledge Dr Manmohan Singh Ji's selfless service, dedication and incredible contribution to the cause of nation-building. My best wishes to him on his birthday. I pray for his good health and happiness in the years to come," Gandhi said.

Former JD(U) president and NDA convener Sharad Yadav wished the former prime minister on his birthday and tweeted, "Wishing a happy birthday to #ManmohanSingh. Persons like Dr. Manmohan Singh are rarely born. Pray for his good health and long life."

Janata Dal (United) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in a press statement prayed for Singh's long life and extended warm wishes to him on the occasion.

P. Chidambaram, the former finance minister under Dr. Manmohan Singh's regime, also wished him birthday on the micro-blogging site and said, "I have asked my family to tweet on my behalf the following: Happy birthday to Dr Manmohan Singh. May he live for a 100 years and more!"

Singh, who was the Prime Minister for the two consecutive terms (from 2004-2014) has turned 87 today.

He is a renowned economist, credited for introducing sweeping reforms in the 1990s.

Singh was born on September 26, 1932, in Punjab's village of Gah before partition. He studied at the Panjab University, Cambridge and Oxford.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Wishes pour in on social media for former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh as he turned 87 on Thursday. A couple of hashtags related to the senior Congress leader's birthday started making in the top India trends on Twitter as his well-wishers flooded the microblogging site with their best wishes.

Wishes pour in on social media for former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh as he turned 87 on Thursday. A couple of hashtags related to the senior Congress leader's birthday started making in the top India trends on Twitter as his well-wishers flooded the microblogging site with their best wishes. Several political party leaders came forward to extend their wishes to the former prime minister. Many hailed him for his achievements. Taking to Twitter, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi acknowledged Singh's "selfless service, dedication and incredible contribution" in developing the country and prayed for his good health. "On his birthday, let us acknowledge Dr Manmohan Singh Ji's selfless service, dedication and incredible contribution to the cause of nation-building. My best wishes to him on his birthday. I pray for his good health and happiness in the years to come," Gandhi said. Former JD(U) president and NDA convener Sharad Yadav wished the former prime minister on his birthday and tweeted, "Wishing a happy birthday to #ManmohanSingh. Persons like Dr. Manmohan Singh are rarely born. Pray for his good health and long life." Janata Dal (United) president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in a press statement prayed for Singh's long life and extended warm wishes to him on the occasion. P. Chidambaram, the former finance minister under Dr. Manmohan Singh's regime, also wished him birthday on the micro-blogging site and said, "I have asked my family to tweet on my behalf the following: Happy birthday to Dr Manmohan Singh. May he live for a 100 years and more!" Singh, who was the Prime Minister for the two consecutive terms (from 2004-2014) has turned 87 today. He is a renowned economist, credited for introducing sweeping reforms in the 1990s. Singh was born on September 26, 1932, in Punjab's village of Gah before partition. He studied at the Panjab University, Cambridge and Oxford.

Wishes pour in for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as he turns 87

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Saturday that the Centre should have taken suggestions from state chief ministers before amending the terms of reference for the 15th Finance Commission.

He further stated that unilateralism is not good for the cooperative federalism and federal policy.

In July, the government had changed the terms of reference for the commission and mandated the panel to give suggestions for allocation of non-lapsable funds for defence and internal security.

"The best course would have been for the Central government that if it wants to tailor the terms of reference, it should be backed by a chief ministers'&nbsp;conference under the auspices of NITI Aayog. Otherwise, there would be a strong feeling that the government is trying to rob the states of due resource allotment," he said.

"I think that it is not good for the federal polity of our country and cooperative federalism we all swear by these days," Singh added while addressing the gathering at National Seminar on Additional Terms of Reference of the 15th Finance Commission: Implication for the States.

"The commission's report goes to the Finance Ministry, and then it goes to the Cabinet. Therefore the government of the day can take a view that whatever the mandate of Parliament, the government would abide by that, rather than imposing its view unilaterally on the reluctant state commissions," he said.

"I respectfully request to the authorities to still take this view that they will go by the advice of the Chief Ministers if there is new controversy with regard to additional terms of reference of the commission," said Singh.

The senior Congress leader also talked about the role of commission.

"There are certain basic issues like allocations for health, education and other important subjects like environment protection where all states have a legitimate interest. What should be done by the government is to evolve a broad national consensus in dealing with all these issues, otherwise, there would be bickering and dissatisfaction. This is not good for the federal polity of our country."

Singh said that cooperative federalism demands give-and-take, and which is why it is important for the Central Government to make efforts to consult the states and take their suggestions.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Saturday that the Centre should have taken suggestions from state chief ministers before amending the terms of reference for the 15th Finance Commission.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Saturday that the Centre should have taken suggestions from state chief ministers before amending the terms of reference for the 15th Finance Commission. He further stated that unilateralism is not good for the cooperative federalism and federal policy. In July, the government had changed the terms of reference for the commission and mandated the panel to give suggestions for allocation of non-lapsable funds for defence and internal security. "The best course would have been for the Central government that if it wants to tailor the terms of reference, it should be backed by a chief ministers' conference under the auspices of NITI Aayog. Otherwise, there would be a strong feeling that the government is trying to rob the states of due resource allotment," he said. "I think that it is not good for the federal polity of our country and cooperative federalism we all swear by these days," Singh added while addressing the gathering at National Seminar on Additional Terms of Reference of the 15th Finance Commission: Implication for the States. "The commission's report goes to the Finance Ministry, and then it goes to the Cabinet. Therefore the government of the day can take a view that whatever the mandate of Parliament, the government would abide by that, rather than imposing its view unilaterally on the reluctant state commissions," he said. "I respectfully request to the authorities to still take this view that they will go by the advice of the Chief Ministers if there is new controversy with regard to additional terms of reference of the commission," said Singh. The senior Congress leader also talked about the role of commission. "There are certain basic issues like allocations for health, education and other important subjects like environment protection where all states have a legitimate interest. What should be done by the government is to evolve a broad national consensus in dealing with all these issues, otherwise, there would be bickering and dissatisfaction. This is not good for the federal polity of our country." Singh said that cooperative federalism demands give-and-take, and which is why it is important for the Central Government to make efforts to consult the states and take their suggestions.

Centre should take CMs' views on changing Finance Commission's terms of reference: Manmohan Singh

Former Comptroller and Auditor General of India Vinod Rai has finally broken his silence on the 2G spectrum case. In an exclusive interview to WION, Vinod Rai spoke about Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh policy paralysis and much more. Vinod Rai is a former Indian IAS officer who served as the 11th Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

Former CAG Vinod Rai on EX-PM Manmohan Singh | WION Exclusive

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday said the Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India, the CBI and other such institutions are expected to function independently within the framework of the Constitution.

"To strengthen, our democracy we need principle, knowledgeable and visionary leaders. It needs political parties committed to safeguarding values enshrined in our Constitution. For our continued unity, the government has to deliver justice, liberty, equality, and environment that respect the contrary opinion," said Singh while addressing the students at Laxmipat University here.

"We have to respect the supremacy of Parliament and its procedures, the rules of the government and presidents. Serving the federal structures like the Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India, the Controller and Auditor General of India, the CBI, Vigilance Commission, the Information Commission and various other commissions constituted by the government from time to time are expected to function independently within the framework of the Constitution. We have to ensure that they do so," he added.

Major Opposition parties including the Congress have been accusing the central government of misusing institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday said the Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India, the CBI and other such institutions are expected to function independently within the framework of the Constitution.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday said the Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India, the CBI and other such institutions are expected to function independently within the framework of the Constitution. "To strengthen, our democracy we need principle, knowledgeable and visionary leaders. It needs political parties committed to safeguarding values enshrined in our Constitution. For our continued unity, the government has to deliver justice, liberty, equality, and environment that respect the contrary opinion," said Singh while addressing the students at Laxmipat University here. "We have to respect the supremacy of Parliament and its procedures, the rules of the government and presidents. Serving the federal structures like the Supreme Court, the Election Commission of India, the Controller and Auditor General of India, the CBI, Vigilance Commission, the Information Commission and various other commissions constituted by the government from time to time are expected to function independently within the framework of the Constitution. We have to ensure that they do so," he added. Major Opposition parties including the Congress have been accusing the central government of misusing institutions like the Election Commission and the CBI.

Supreme Court, Election Commission, CBI expected to function independently: Manmohan Singh

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday said that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continues to have a 'Z+' security cover.

MHA's clarification came amidst reports claiming that the government is likely to withdraw the Special Protection Group (SPG) from former Prime Minister's security detail.

&nbsp;"The current security cover review is a periodical and professional exercise based on threat perception that is purely based on a professional assessment by security agencies. Dr Manmohan Singh continues to have a Z+ security cover," read a statement from MHA.

Singh, who was the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, was last week<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manmohan-singh-elected-unopposed-as-member-of-rajya-sabha-rajasthan-chief-minister-ashok-gehlot-tweets-244110"> elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan</a>.

The BJP did not field any candidate against the senior Congress leader.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday said that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continues to have a 'Z+' security cover. MHA's clarification came amidst reports claiming that the government is likely to withdraw the Special Protection Group (SPG) from former Prime Minister's security detail.

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Monday said that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh continues to have a 'Z+' security cover. MHA's clarification came amidst reports claiming that the government is likely to withdraw the Special Protection Group (SPG) from former Prime Minister's security detail. "The current security cover review is a periodical and professional exercise based on threat perception that is purely based on a professional assessment by security agencies. Dr Manmohan Singh continues to have a Z+ security cover," read a statement from MHA. Singh, who was the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, was last week elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. The BJP did not field any candidate against the senior Congress leader.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh continues to have Z+ security cover: Home Ministry

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday congratulated former prime minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh for being elected as a member of Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan.

"I congratulate former PM Dr Manmohan Singh ji on being elected unopposed as a member of Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan," Gehlot said on Twitter.

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I congratulate former PM Dr <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManmohanSingh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManmohanSingh</a> ji on being elected unopposed as a member of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajyaSabha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajyaSabha</a> from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a>. Dr Singh’s election is a matter of pride for entire state. His vast knowledge and rich experience would benefit the people of Rajasthan a lot. <a href="https://t.co/YfkDQTxzpk">pic.twitter.com/YfkDQTxzpk</a>
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1163388220144414720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Singh, a veteran Congress leader had <a href="&lt;blockquote class=&quot;twitter-tweet&quot; data-lang=&quot;en&quot;&gt;&lt;p lang=&quot;en&quot; dir=&quot;ltr&quot;&gt;I congratulate former PM Dr &lt;a href=&quot;https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManmohanSingh?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&quot;&gt;#ManmohanSingh&lt;/a&gt; ji on being elected unopposed as a member of &lt;a href=&quot;https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajyaSabha?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&quot;&gt;#RajyaSabha&lt;/a&gt; from &lt;a href=&quot;https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&quot;&gt;#Rajasthan&lt;/a&gt;. Dr Singh’s election is a matter of pride for entire state. His vast knowledge and rich experience would benefit the people of Rajasthan a lot. &lt;a href=&quot;https://t.co/YfkDQTxzpk&quot;&gt;pic.twitter.com/YfkDQTxzpk&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) &lt;a href=&quot;https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1163388220144414720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&quot;&gt;August 19, 2019&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src=&quot;https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js&quot; charset=&quot;utf-8&quot;&gt;&lt;/script&gt;">filed his nomination papers in Rajya Sabha</a> for the by-poll from Rajasthan on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state.

Now, the Congress party is in majority in the legislative assembly.

Earlier, the former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended earlier this year.

Singh has promised that he will work hard to ensure the interests fo the people of the state are protected.

The polling will be held on August 26 and the results will be declared on the same day, Election Commission has said in a notification issued on August 7.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday congratulated former prime minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh for being elected as a member of Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday congratulated former prime minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh for being elected as a member of Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. "I congratulate former PM Dr Manmohan Singh ji on being elected unopposed as a member of Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan," Gehlot said on Twitter. I congratulate former PM Dr #ManmohanSingh ji on being elected unopposed as a member of #RajyaSabha from #Rajasthan. Dr Singh’s election is a matter of pride for entire state. His vast knowledge and rich experience would benefit the people of Rajasthan a lot. pic.twitter.com/YfkDQTxzpk — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) August 19, 2019 × Singh, a veteran Congress leader had filed his nomination papers in Rajya Sabha for the by-poll from Rajasthan on Tuesday. The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state. Now, the Congress party is in majority in the legislative assembly. Earlier, the former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended earlier this year. Singh has promised that he will work hard to ensure the interests fo the people of the state are protected. The polling will be held on August 26 and the results will be declared on the same day, Election Commission has said in a notification issued on August 7.

Manmohan Singh elected unopposed as member of Rajya Sabha: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot tweets

Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh on Tuesday filed his nomination papers in Rajya Sabha for the by-poll from Rajasthan.

The former prime minister was accompanied by chief minister Ashok Gehlot and deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot.

The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state.

Now, the Congress party is in majority in the legislative assembly.

Earlier, the former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended earlier this year.

Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh on Tuesday filed his nomination papers in Rajya Sabha for the by-poll from Rajasthan. The former prime minister was accompanied by chief minister Ashok Gehlot and deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot.

Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh on Tuesday filed his nomination papers in Rajya Sabha for the by-poll from Rajasthan. The former prime minister was accompanied by chief minister Ashok Gehlot and deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot. The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state. Now, the Congress party is in majority in the legislative assembly. Earlier, the former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended earlier this year.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh files nomination for Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan

Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting is underway&nbsp;at the party headquarters to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cwc-to-meet-again-at-830pm-today-to-choose-new-party-chief-as-rahul-refuses-to-budge-242011">choose next party president</a>&nbsp;after Rahul Gandhi refused to reconsider his resignation following poll debacle.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress leaders AK Antony, Mallikarjun Kharge and Jyotiraditya Scindia arrived at All India Congress Committee (AICC) office for Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting a little while ago.

Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and her daughter and party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also reached the party headquarters for the meeting.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>: UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra arrive at All India Congress Committee (AICC) office for Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting. <a href="https://t.co/iTKsqHtTaP">pic.twitter.com/iTKsqHtTaP</a>
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Earlier, Sonia Gandhi told reporters she and Rahul Gandhi were not a part of the five regionwise groups formed in the CWC to elect the new party chief.

"Rahul and I cannot participate in the election of the new party chief. Putting our names is not good," she said.

According to sources, the front runners for the position are party's general secretary Mukul Wasnik and Karnataka stalwart Mallikarjun Kharge.

Wasnik is the senior-most general secretary acceptable to most of the factions. Kharge, on the other hand, is a veteran leader from South India who lost Lok Sabha elections in 2019.&nbsp;

Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting is underway at the party headquarters to choose next party president after Rahul Gandhi refused to reconsider his resignation following poll debacle.

Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting is underway at the party headquarters to choose next party president after Rahul Gandhi refused to reconsider his resignation following poll debacle. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Congress leaders AK Antony, Mallikarjun Kharge and Jyotiraditya Scindia arrived at All India Congress Committee (AICC) office for Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting a little while ago. Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and her daughter and party's general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also reached the party headquarters for the meeting. #Delhi: UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra arrive at All India Congress Committee (AICC) office for Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting. pic.twitter.com/iTKsqHtTaP — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2019 × Earlier, Sonia Gandhi told reporters she and Rahul Gandhi were not a part of the five regionwise groups formed in the CWC to elect the new party chief. "Rahul and I cannot participate in the election of the new party chief. Putting our names is not good," she said. According to sources, the front runners for the position are party's general secretary Mukul Wasnik and Karnataka stalwart Mallikarjun Kharge. Wasnik is the senior-most general secretary acceptable to most of the factions. Kharge, on the other hand, is a veteran leader from South India who lost Lok Sabha elections in 2019.

Congress Working Committee meeting underway to choose next party president

Congress Working Committee (CWC) on Saturday constituted five regional groups to be headed by Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gan Priyanka Gandhi, and Ahmed Patel to carry out wider consultations and decide on a name for the President's post, but the Gandhis refused to be part of it.&nbsp;

Under the decision was taken by the party's highest decision-making body, Sonia Gandhi will the eastern region group, Singh the southern group, Rahul the western region, Priyanka the north region and Patel the northeast region. However, Sonia told reporters that to put their (Sonia and Rahul) names was not right. "We cannot be part of this consultation committees. That is why we are leaving" she said.

&nbsp;Rahul also left the deliberations. Many names are doing rounds for the post of Congress president but no consensus has been achieved yet. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has batted for a young leader to head the party, while Mumbai Congress leader Milind Deora suggested the names of Jyotiraditya Scindia and Sachin Pilot to take up the responsibility.

A few leaders like Shashi Tharoor have suggested that an interim president be appointed at the earliest. A lawmaker from Wayanad constituency, Gandhi offered to step down from the post of Congress president at the CWC meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for the party's drubbing in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

However, his offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC with several top leaders rallying behind him asking him to continue to lead the party. Almost two months after that not only did the 49-year-old leader make his resignation public but also removed the tag of 'Congress President' from the bio of his twitter handle.

Many protests and scores of resignations have come to the fore to stop Rahul Gandhi from resigning. Chief Ministers of all Congress-ruled states had met with Gandhi in Delhi to advice him to reconsider his decision to resign but of no avail.

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than its 2014 Lok Sabha results.&nbsp;

Congress Working Committee (CWC) on Saturday constituted five regional groups to be headed by Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gan Priyanka Gandhi, and Ahmed Patel to carry out wider consultations and decide on a name for the President's post, but the Gandhis refused to be part of it.

Congress Working Committee (CWC) on Saturday constituted five regional groups to be headed by Sonia Gandhi, Manmohan Singh, Rahul Gan Priyanka Gandhi, and Ahmed Patel to carry out wider consultations and decide on a name for the President's post, but the Gandhis refused to be part of it. Under the decision was taken by the party's highest decision-making body, Sonia Gandhi will the eastern region group, Singh the southern group, Rahul the western region, Priyanka the north region and Patel the northeast region. However, Sonia told reporters that to put their (Sonia and Rahul) names was not right. "We cannot be part of this consultation committees. That is why we are leaving" she said. Rahul also left the deliberations. Many names are doing rounds for the post of Congress president but no consensus has been achieved yet. Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh has batted for a young leader to head the party, while Mumbai Congress leader Milind Deora suggested the names of Jyotiraditya Scindia and Sachin Pilot to take up the responsibility. A few leaders like Shashi Tharoor have suggested that an interim president be appointed at the earliest. A lawmaker from Wayanad constituency, Gandhi offered to step down from the post of Congress president at the CWC meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for the party's drubbing in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC with several top leaders rallying behind him asking him to continue to lead the party. Almost two months after that not only did the 49-year-old leader make his resignation public but also removed the tag of 'Congress President' from the bio of his twitter handle. Many protests and scores of resignations have come to the fore to stop Rahul Gandhi from resigning. Chief Ministers of all Congress-ruled states had met with Gandhi in Delhi to advice him to reconsider his decision to resign but of no avail. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than its 2014 Lok Sabha results.

CWC constitutes groups to carry out wider consultations to choose new Congress chief

Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh will file nomination for the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan.

He will file his nomination on August 13.

The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state.

Now, the Congress party is in majority in the legislative assembly.

Earlier, the former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended earlier this year.

Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh will file nomination for the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. He will file his nomination on August 13.

Former Prime Minister and senior Congress leader Manmohan Singh will file nomination for the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan. He will file his nomination on August 13. The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state. Now, the Congress party is in majority in the legislative assembly. Earlier, the former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended earlier this year.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh to file nomination for Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan

Former prime minister and veteran Congress leader Manmohan Singh on Saturday paid rich tribute to former Delhi chief minister and Congress stalwart Sheila Dikshit and said ''country has lost a great administrator and an outstanding leader who contributed enormously to the all-round development of Delhi''.

In a letter written to Dikshit`s son and Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit, Singh said, "I have learnt with profound sorrow about the sad and shocking news of the untimely demise of our beloved Sheila Dikshit ji. The people of Delhi had a deep affection of Sheila ji and that is why she holds the distinction of being the only woman Chief Minister in India who has led her Party to three consecutive victories in Assembly Elections. In her death, our country has lost a great administrator and an outstanding leader who contributed enormously to the all-round development of Delhi."

He continued, "I take this opportunity to convey to you and other members of your family my heartfelt condolences on this bereavement. We pray to the Almighty to give all of you the strength to bear this great loss with courage and fortitude."

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said that the people of Delhi will always remember her as a distinguished Chief Minister who led them for 15 years and transformed the national capital into a world-class capital city.

"The people of Delhi will always remember her as a popular leader and distinguished Chief Minister who led them for 15 years and transformed New Delhi into a world-class capital city. She will always be remembered for her contributions towards the development and growth of New Delhi. Everyone who knew her across party lines will always remember her grace, generosity and warmth," he said.

Echoing similar sentiments, AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal described Dikshit as a "noble-minded politician".&nbsp;

"Under her 15 year-long administration, she undertook exceptional steps to develop the socio-economic infrastructure of the national capital, and that was the golden days of development in Delhi. She was a noble-minded politician and she upheld this quality throughout her life," Venugopal said in a condolence message written to Sandeep Dikshit.

Dikshit`s mortal remains are kept at the AICC headquarters on Sunday morning. The last rites will be held at 2:30 pm today.

(With inputs from ANI)

Former prime minister and veteran Congress leader Manmohan Singh on Saturday paid rich tribute to former Delhi chief minister and Congress stalwart Sheila Dikshit and said ''country has lost a great administrator and an outstanding leader who contributed enormously to the all-round development of Delhi''.

Former prime minister and veteran Congress leader Manmohan Singh on Saturday paid rich tribute to former Delhi chief minister and Congress stalwart Sheila Dikshit and said ''country has lost a great administrator and an outstanding leader who contributed enormously to the all-round development of Delhi''. In a letter written to Dikshit`s son and Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit, Singh said, "I have learnt with profound sorrow about the sad and shocking news of the untimely demise of our beloved Sheila Dikshit ji. The people of Delhi had a deep affection of Sheila ji and that is why she holds the distinction of being the only woman Chief Minister in India who has led her Party to three consecutive victories in Assembly Elections. In her death, our country has lost a great administrator and an outstanding leader who contributed enormously to the all-round development of Delhi." He continued, "I take this opportunity to convey to you and other members of your family my heartfelt condolences on this bereavement. We pray to the Almighty to give all of you the strength to bear this great loss with courage and fortitude." Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said that the people of Delhi will always remember her as a distinguished Chief Minister who led them for 15 years and transformed the national capital into a world-class capital city. "The people of Delhi will always remember her as a popular leader and distinguished Chief Minister who led them for 15 years and transformed New Delhi into a world-class capital city. She will always be remembered for her contributions towards the development and growth of New Delhi. Everyone who knew her across party lines will always remember her grace, generosity and warmth," he said. Echoing similar sentiments, AICC General Secretary KC Venugopal described Dikshit as a "noble-minded politician". "Under her 15 year-long administration, she undertook exceptional steps to develop the socio-economic infrastructure of the national capital, and that was the golden days of development in Delhi. She was a noble-minded politician and she upheld this quality throughout her life," Venugopal said in a condolence message written to Sandeep Dikshit. Dikshit`s mortal remains are kept at the AICC headquarters on Sunday morning. The last rites will be held at 2:30 pm today. (With inputs from ANI)

Country lost great administrator and outstanding leader: Manmohan Singh remembers Sheila Dikshit

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he was devastated to hear about the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-delhi-chief-minister-congress-veteran-sheila-dikshit-passes-away-at-81-237286"> death of the former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit</a>.

Gandhi took to Twitter to express his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/she-made-noteworthy-contribution-to-delhis-development-pm-modi-remembers-sheila-dikshit-condolences-pour-in-237288">shock over the sudden demise of Dikshit</a> who breathed her last on Saturday.

"I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond. My condolences to her family &amp; the citizens of Delhi, whom she served selflessly as a 3 term CM, in this time of great grief."

Former PM Manmohan Singh also said he was shocked to hear about the demise of Sheila Dikshit.

"I'm shocked to hear the sudden passing away of Smt Shiela Dixit. In her death the country has lost a dedicated Congress leader of the masses. People of Delhi will always remember her contribution to Delhi's development during her tenure as CM for 3 terms," he said.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said she was deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit.&nbsp;"She loved me, whatever she did for Delhi and the country, people will remember it. She was a big leader of the party, her contribution towards party, politics of nation and especially to Delhi, is immense," Vadra&nbsp;added.

Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted, "Just now got to know about extremely terrible news about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit ji. It's a huge loss for Delhi and her contribution will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to her family members. May her soul rest in peace"

Earlier PM Modi, President Kovind, Union Minister Rajnath Singh and several other leaders also paid homage to the veteran Congress leader.

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I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond. 
 
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Expressing his grief over the death of Dikshit, PM Modi tweeted, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti."

&nbsp;

 
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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he was devastated to hear about the death of the former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit. Gandhi took to Twitter to express his shock over the sudden demise of Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he was devastated to hear about the death of the former Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit. Gandhi took to Twitter to express his shock over the sudden demise of Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday. "I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond. My condolences to her family & the citizens of Delhi, whom she served selflessly as a 3 term CM, in this time of great grief." Former PM Manmohan Singh also said he was shocked to hear about the demise of Sheila Dikshit. "I'm shocked to hear the sudden passing away of Smt Shiela Dixit. In her death the country has lost a dedicated Congress leader of the masses. People of Delhi will always remember her contribution to Delhi's development during her tenure as CM for 3 terms," he said. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said she was deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit. "She loved me, whatever she did for Delhi and the country, people will remember it. She was a big leader of the party, her contribution towards party, politics of nation and especially to Delhi, is immense," Vadra added. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted, "Just now got to know about extremely terrible news about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit ji. It's a huge loss for Delhi and her contribution will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to her family members. May her soul rest in peace" Earlier PM Modi, President Kovind, Union Minister Rajnath Singh and several other leaders also paid homage to the veteran Congress leader. I’m devastated to hear about the passing away of Sheila Dikshit Ji, a beloved daughter of the Congress Party, with whom I shared a close personal bond. My condolences to her family & the citizens of Delhi, whom she served selflessly as a 3 term CM, in this time of great grief. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 20, 2019 × Expressing his grief over the death of Dikshit, PM Modi tweeted, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti."

Rahul Gandhi 'devastated' on Sheila Dikshit's demise, calls her 'beloved daughter of Congress'

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party.

"I strongly urge the Working Committee to meet without delay, perhaps under the chairmanship of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and take necessary decisions. These would include an interim Congress party president until the next party elections," he said in a statement on Monday.

"In my view, four Working Presidents/Vice Presidents, one each for the four zones - North, South, East, and West. This would enable the introduction of younger people into positions of authority," he added in the statement.

"The longer the present uncertainty remains, the more will our workers and voters around the country be demoralised. The negative cycle must be reversed before it is too late," Singh further said the in the statement.

Speaking to ANI exclusively, Singh said he has not suggested any names for the posts.

"I have not suggested any names. I did not want to mention any names as it will be a decision of the party as a whole," he said.

"The Congress party seems to be in disarray after Rahul Gandhi's resignation. Instead of moving forward, we wasted over month pleading him not to resign. He is an intelligent man. If he wants to resign, let him do so," he said.

He said that a lot of people genuinely want Rahul to carry forward the party but one must honour his desire.

Responding to the argument that many people claim the Congress will disintegrate if Rahul steps down from the post of president, he said,&nbsp;"That is a self-fulfilling prophecy. I say the reverse. If you do not do something soon, then the party will disintegrate."

Singh further stressed that there would be no opposition if the Congress party gets disintegrated.

"It is a fact that we are in a difficult situation. It is important the Congress should revive not only for the party itself, which has a very old and distinguished background but also for democracy. In a democracy, you need a strong opposition."

"If the Congress party disintegrates, which party is going to provide strong opposition? If something like this happens, then there will be only regional parties. So, it is important for the Congress to get its act together and move forward," he said.

Replying to a question if the Congress party would move ahead without Gandhi scion, he firmly said,&nbsp;"Why not, I see no reason. We need to bring younger people to the party. It should be a judicious mix."

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party.

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party. "I strongly urge the Working Committee to meet without delay, perhaps under the chairmanship of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and take necessary decisions. These would include an interim Congress party president until the next party elections," he said in a statement on Monday. "In my view, four Working Presidents/Vice Presidents, one each for the four zones - North, South, East, and West. This would enable the introduction of younger people into positions of authority," he added in the statement. "The longer the present uncertainty remains, the more will our workers and voters around the country be demoralised. The negative cycle must be reversed before it is too late," Singh further said the in the statement. Speaking to ANI exclusively, Singh said he has not suggested any names for the posts. "I have not suggested any names. I did not want to mention any names as it will be a decision of the party as a whole," he said. "The Congress party seems to be in disarray after Rahul Gandhi's resignation. Instead of moving forward, we wasted over month pleading him not to resign. He is an intelligent man. If he wants to resign, let him do so," he said. He said that a lot of people genuinely want Rahul to carry forward the party but one must honour his desire. Responding to the argument that many people claim the Congress will disintegrate if Rahul steps down from the post of president, he said, "That is a self-fulfilling prophecy. I say the reverse. If you do not do something soon, then the party will disintegrate." Singh further stressed that there would be no opposition if the Congress party gets disintegrated. "It is a fact that we are in a difficult situation. It is important the Congress should revive not only for the party itself, which has a very old and distinguished background but also for democracy. In a democracy, you need a strong opposition." "If the Congress party disintegrates, which party is going to provide strong opposition? If something like this happens, then there will be only regional parties. So, it is important for the Congress to get its act together and move forward," he said. Replying to a question if the Congress party would move ahead without Gandhi scion, he firmly said, "Why not, I see no reason. We need to bring younger people to the party. It should be a judicious mix."

Appoint interim Congress president until next party elections: Karan Singh

Finance Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-invoking-divinity-to-pure-poetry-sitharaman-sprinkles-budget-speech-with-couplets-and-quotes-233272">Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled India's Budget</a> for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020, to Parliament on Friday, with that she also gave the longest speech in the budget history by speaking for two hours and seventeen&nbsp;minutes.

The record was previously held by former finance minister Jaswant Singh who took two hours and thirteen minutes to present his budget in 2003.

The longest speech in terms of words, the record is held by former finance minister Manmohan Singh whose speech comprised 18,650 words during his tenure in 1991.

Sitharaman's predecessor, &nbsp;Arun Jaitley holds the record for the second-longest speech, comprising 18,604 words, delivered last year. He is also credited with delivering the second, third and fourth longest budget speeches in 2014, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

The shortest speech comprising 800 words was given by HM Patel in 1977 while delivering the interim Budget.

Country's first full-time woman finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman today announced a slew of measures in the Budget to boost the economy. The budget proposals were welcomed with frequent thumping of desks by the treasury benches with Prime Minister Narendra Modi too joining the members.

She also won hearts while delivering her maiden speech as she quoted multiple proverbs and couplets in Hindi, Urdu and Tamil languages.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled India's Budget for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020, to Parliament on Friday, with that she also gave the longest speech in the budget history by speaking for two hours and seventeen minutes.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled India's Budget for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020, to Parliament on Friday, with that she also gave the longest speech in the budget history by speaking for two hours and seventeen minutes. The record was previously held by former finance minister Jaswant Singh who took two hours and thirteen minutes to present his budget in 2003. The longest speech in terms of words, the record is held by former finance minister Manmohan Singh whose speech comprised 18,650 words during his tenure in 1991. Sitharaman's predecessor, Arun Jaitley holds the record for the second-longest speech, comprising 18,604 words, delivered last year. He is also credited with delivering the second, third and fourth longest budget speeches in 2014, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The shortest speech comprising 800 words was given by HM Patel in 1977 while delivering the interim Budget. Country's first full-time woman finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman today announced a slew of measures in the Budget to boost the economy. The budget proposals were welcomed with frequent thumping of desks by the treasury benches with Prime Minister Narendra Modi too joining the members. She also won hearts while delivering her maiden speech as she quoted multiple proverbs and couplets in Hindi, Urdu and Tamil languages.

Nirmala Sitharaman delivers longest ever Budget speech of 2 hours 17 minutes

Congress party is all set to send former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, highly placed sources in the party told ANI on Tuesday.

The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini. Saini was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state.

However, this time around, the Congress party is in majority in the Legislative Assembly.

Manmohan Singh's name as a candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat has almost been finalised though a final decision in this regard will be taken only after the announcement of elections, a senior Congress leader said.

A minister in Rajasthan government also confirmed that a discussion about sending Manmohan Singh from Rajasthan is on.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot met the former Prime Minister at his residence here on Monday after meeting the party president Rahul Gandhi.

When asked about the development, Singh's office said that no information in this regard has been shared by the party.

Even the elections have not been announced yet, his office said, while terming his meeting with Gehlot as a courtesy call.

The former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended last month. Last month, the Congress had approached the DMK for help in sending Singh to the Upper House of Parliament.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Congress party is all set to send former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, highly placed sources in the party told ANI on Tuesday.

Congress party is all set to send former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to the Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan, highly placed sources in the party told ANI on Tuesday. The seat has been vacant after the death of state BJP president Madan Lal Saini. Saini was elected to the Rajya Sabha last year when the BJP was in power in the state. However, this time around, the Congress party is in majority in the Legislative Assembly. Manmohan Singh's name as a candidate for the Rajya Sabha seat has almost been finalised though a final decision in this regard will be taken only after the announcement of elections, a senior Congress leader said. A minister in Rajasthan government also confirmed that a discussion about sending Manmohan Singh from Rajasthan is on. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot met the former Prime Minister at his residence here on Monday after meeting the party president Rahul Gandhi. When asked about the development, Singh's office said that no information in this regard has been shared by the party. Even the elections have not been announced yet, his office said, while terming his meeting with Gehlot as a courtesy call. The former Prime Minister represented Assam in the Rajya Sabha for 28 years before his tenure ended last month. Last month, the Congress had approached the DMK for help in sending Singh to the Upper House of Parliament.

Congress all set to send Manmohan Singh to Rajya Sabha from Rajasthan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people.

"Some people kept talking about the EVM issue in this House. I want to tell them that there was a time when we were two MPs in the Parliament. People mocked us. But, we worked harder and won the trust of people. We did not make excuses and blame the polling booth," he said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first Rajya Sabha address after re-election&nbsp;said those not ready to introspect and look into their shortcomings blame EVMs for their defeat.

"It is after a long time that a Government with a full majority was elected once again with a full majority. In this mandate, we see the desire of the people for stability. In fact, this trend of stable governments is being seen in various states too," Modi said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"I was saddened when some leaders said- the BJP and allies won the elections but the nation lost, democracy lost. I want to clearly say that such statements are unfortunate. &nbsp;Why question the wisdom of voters," Modi questioned.&nbsp;

He slammed the Congress party stating, "Their arrogance has no limits or what? well, arrogance shouldn't exist in the first place... but what do they mean. Did democracy lose in Wayanad and Raebareilly..?" Modi asked.&nbsp;

Replying to Motion of Thanks on President's Address in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi asked for a collective endeavour from all MPs to make India a strong political economy.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday launched a stinging attack on Opposition parties especially Congress over their allegations on EVM discrepancies, saying it amounted to insulting the vote of the people. "Some people kept talking about the EVM issue in this House. I want to tell them that there was a time when we were two MPs in the Parliament. People mocked us. But, we worked harder and won the trust of people. We did not make excuses and blame the polling booth," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first Rajya Sabha address after re-election said those not ready to introspect and look into their shortcomings blame EVMs for their defeat. "It is after a long time that a Government with a full majority was elected once again with a full majority. In this mandate, we see the desire of the people for stability. In fact, this trend of stable governments is being seen in various states too," Modi said. "I was saddened when some leaders said- the BJP and allies won the elections but the nation lost, democracy lost. I want to clearly say that such statements are unfortunate. Why question the wisdom of voters," Modi questioned. He slammed the Congress party stating, "Their arrogance has no limits or what? well, arrogance shouldn't exist in the first place... but what do they mean. Did democracy lose in Wayanad and Raebareilly..?" Modi asked. Replying to Motion of Thanks on President's Address in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi asked for a collective endeavour from all MPs to make India a strong political economy. (With inputs from agencies)

Don't insult voters' sentiment by blaming EVM: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha

In a stinging attack on the Congress, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-insult-voters-sentiment-pm-narendra-modi-in-rajya-sabha-230575">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>on Wednesday said the Opposition party's arrogance has no limits, they can't accept defeat.

"My friends in Congress have not been able to digest victory, they have not been able to accept defeat. This is not a healthy sign in a democracy," he said.

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My friends in the Congress: 
 
They have not been able to digest victory. 
 
They have not been able to accept defat. 
 
I do not consider this to be a healthy sign in a democracy: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1143805335452303360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Slamming Congress during his speech, PM Modi said that we should appreciate how our electoral processes have improved over the years. In 1950s polling process took a long time to complete. Violence and booth capturing were common in some places. Now, the news is about rising voter turnout. This is a healthy signal.

On one nation, one election issue, PM Modi asked the opposition parties to come forward and present their views. He said that it may not become a reality but spreading negativity even before having a discussion on the matter is not right. He cited examples of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh where Assembly and general elections are held simultaneously.

On Jharkhand lynching incident, PM Modi said that he is too pained by the killing of a youth. He said that the accused should be dealt with a firm hand. Responding to Congress leader Azad's jibe that Jharkhand has become a factory of lynching, he said, "It is wrong to blame entire Jharkhand for the lynching."

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The lynching in Jharkhand has pained me. It has saddened others too. 
 
But, some people in the Rajya Sabha are calling Jharkhand a hub of lynching. Is this fair? Why are they insulting a state. 
 
None of us have the right to insult the state of Jharkhand: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1143809912297807872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Narendra Modi said that the people of the country rejected opposition's negative politics. He said that opposition leaders mocked the government's schemes like clean India, Make in India, toilet etc.

In a stinging attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Opposition party's arrogance has no limits, they can't accept defeat. "My friends in Congress have not been able to digest victory, they have not been able to accept defeat.

In a stinging attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Opposition party's arrogance has no limits, they can't accept defeat. "My friends in Congress have not been able to digest victory, they have not been able to accept defeat. This is not a healthy sign in a democracy," he said. My friends in the Congress: They have not been able to digest victory. They have not been able to accept defat. I do not consider this to be a healthy sign in a democracy: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 26, 2019 × Slamming Congress during his speech, PM Modi said that we should appreciate how our electoral processes have improved over the years. In 1950s polling process took a long time to complete. Violence and booth capturing were common in some places. Now, the news is about rising voter turnout. This is a healthy signal. On one nation, one election issue, PM Modi asked the opposition parties to come forward and present their views. He said that it may not become a reality but spreading negativity even before having a discussion on the matter is not right. He cited examples of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh where Assembly and general elections are held simultaneously. On Jharkhand lynching incident, PM Modi said that he is too pained by the killing of a youth. He said that the accused should be dealt with a firm hand. Responding to Congress leader Azad's jibe that Jharkhand has become a factory of lynching, he said, "It is wrong to blame entire Jharkhand for the lynching." The lynching in Jharkhand has pained me. It has saddened others too. But, some people in the Rajya Sabha are calling Jharkhand a hub of lynching. Is this fair? Why are they insulting a state. None of us have the right to insult the state of Jharkhand: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 26, 2019 × PM Narendra Modi said that the people of the country rejected opposition's negative politics. He said that opposition leaders mocked the government's schemes like clean India, Make in India, toilet etc.

Congress can't accept defeats, not a healthy sign in democracy: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-cant-forget-dark-days-of-emergency-indias-soul-was-crushed-pm-modi-in-lok-sabha-230357">We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha</a>

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/navys-marcos-commandos-board-indian-vessels-in-persian-gulf-to-ensure-safety-230339">Navy's MARCOS commandos board Indian vessels in Persian Gulf to ensure safety</a>

After the Indian Navy launched "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-military-intelligence-to-show-us-drone-was-iranian-airspace-russia-230296">Have military intelligence to show US drone was in Iranian airspace: Russia</a>

Russia has military intelligence that shows that a US drone was in Iranian air space when it was shot down by Iran last week, Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Russia's Security Council, said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-complains-of-chest-pain-hospitalised-in-mumbai-230288">Brian Lara complains of chest pain, hospitalised in Mumbai</a>

Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara, 50, has complained of chest pain and has been admitted to Global Hospital in Mumbai. There has been no information on Lara's health but the hospital will issue an official statement shortly to give an update.&nbsp;

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Despite the controversies around him, there is no doubt that man created some incredible music and his work cannot be overshadowed by any single person.&nbsp;

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten. Navy's MARCOS commandos board Indian vessels in Persian Gulf to ensure safety After the Indian Navy launched "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships. Have military intelligence to show US drone was in Iranian airspace: Russia Russia has military intelligence that shows that a US drone was in Iranian air space when it was shot down by Iran last week, Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Russia's Security Council, said on Tuesday. Brian Lara complains of chest pain, hospitalised in Mumbai Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara, 50, has complained of chest pain and has been admitted to Global Hospital in Mumbai. There has been no information on Lara's health but the hospital will issue an official statement shortly to give an update. In pics: The life and legacy of Michael Jackson-Remembering the 'King of Pop' Despite the controversies around him, there is no doubt that man created some incredible music and his work cannot be overshadowed by any single person.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leaders-never-mentioned-narasimha-rao-and-dr-manmohan-singh-centred-only-around-gandhis-pm-modi-in-lok-sabha-230332">PM Narendra Modi</a> said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

In his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-government-will-overcome-all-challenges-received-a-strong-mandate-pm-modi-230320">maiden speech in the 17th Lok Sabha</a>, the prime minister said: “A few people were constantly asking during the debate – Who did it? Who did it? I want to ask them, today is 25th June. Who imposed the Emergency? Who trampled over the spirit of the Constitution, gagged the media and bullied the judiciary? We can’t forget those dark days.”

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Replying to 'Motion Of Thanks On the President's Address' in Lok Sabha <a href="https://t.co/oXpl0TMDOg">https://t.co/oXpl0TMDOg</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1143483751512473601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Prime Minister recalled the "horrors of emergency" while targeting Congress, the prime Opposition party. "Soul of the nation was crushed on this day, June 25, 44 years ago," he said, adding that all castes, groups, religions had fought together to reclaim democracy.

Taking a potshot at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the party never recognised efforts of anyone but only the members from the Gandhi-Nehru family.&nbsp;

Replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha, Modi said the Congress never spoke about the good work of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narasimha Rao.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister said the NDA was given a chance to serve the nation in 2014 as the people thought it was a way of escaping from the UPA regime.

(With inputs from PTI)

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten. In his maiden speech in the 17th Lok Sabha, the prime minister said: “A few people were constantly asking during the debate – Who did it? Who did it? I want to ask them, today is 25th June. Who imposed the Emergency? Who trampled over the spirit of the Constitution, gagged the media and bullied the judiciary? We can’t forget those dark days.” Replying to 'Motion Of Thanks On the President's Address' in Lok Sabha https://t.co/oXpl0TMDOg — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 25, 2019 × The Prime Minister recalled the "horrors of emergency" while targeting Congress, the prime Opposition party. "Soul of the nation was crushed on this day, June 25, 44 years ago," he said, adding that all castes, groups, religions had fought together to reclaim democracy. Taking a potshot at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the party never recognised efforts of anyone but only the members from the Gandhi-Nehru family. Replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha, Modi said the Congress never spoke about the good work of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narasimha Rao. The Prime Minister said the NDA was given a chance to serve the nation in 2014 as the people thought it was a way of escaping from the UPA regime. (With inputs from PTI)

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha

In a sharp attack on the Congress, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-government-will-overcome-all-challenges-received-a-strong-mandate-pm-modi-230320">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was replying in Lok Sabha on Motion of thanks on President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house.

Continuing his attack on the Congress, Narendra Modi said, "Did those in power from 2004 to 2014 ever talk in appreciation of Atal Bihari Vajpayee? Did they ever speak about the good work of Narasimha Rao Ji? In this Lok Sabha debate, they did not even speak of Manmohan Singh."

Taking a dig at the Opposition, Narendra Modi said, "You have gone so up in the air that you can't see the ground, you've lost your roots. It gives me satisfaction to see you rise so much,".

In the next 5 years, Modi claimed, the goal is to further strengthen and secure the nation and giving an impetus to the nation's inclusivity.

PM Modi said a period of five years cannot suffice to cure the malaise of 70 years, but his government strove to bring the nation to the path of peace, prosperity and development.

"I know that it takes time to change things which have been existing for the last 70 years. We did not divert or dilute from our main goal. We have to move forward, be it regarding infrastructure or in space," he added.

The Prime Minister claimed that electoral gains or setback never factored in his governance or policy-making.

"I never think about polls in terms of victory and defeat. The opportunity to serve 130 crore Indians and work to make a positive difference in the lives of our citizens is special to me," he said.&nbsp;

In a sharp attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention.

In a sharp attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was replying in Lok Sabha on Motion of thanks on President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house. Continuing his attack on the Congress, Narendra Modi said, "Did those in power from 2004 to 2014 ever talk in appreciation of Atal Bihari Vajpayee? Did they ever speak about the good work of Narasimha Rao Ji? In this Lok Sabha debate, they did not even speak of Manmohan Singh." Taking a dig at the Opposition, Narendra Modi said, "You have gone so up in the air that you can't see the ground, you've lost your roots. It gives me satisfaction to see you rise so much,". In the next 5 years, Modi claimed, the goal is to further strengthen and secure the nation and giving an impetus to the nation's inclusivity. PM Modi said a period of five years cannot suffice to cure the malaise of 70 years, but his government strove to bring the nation to the path of peace, prosperity and development. "I know that it takes time to change things which have been existing for the last 70 years. We did not divert or dilute from our main goal. We have to move forward, be it regarding infrastructure or in space," he added. The Prime Minister claimed that electoral gains or setback never factored in his governance or policy-making. "I never think about polls in terms of victory and defeat. The opportunity to serve 130 crore Indians and work to make a positive difference in the lives of our citizens is special to me," he said.

Congress leaders never mentioned Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh; centred only around Gandhis: PM Modi in Lok Sabha

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