India continues to be at the forefront of the fight against climate change at the COP26 meet. PM Modi launched the Initiative for the Resilient Island States (IRIS) for developing infrastructure of small island nations, saying it gives new hope, confidence and satisfaction of doing something for the most vulnerable countries.

PM Narendra Modi unveils climate action initiative plan for small islands

PM Narendra Modi speaks on India's fight against climate change, 'Instead of mindless consumption, we need mindful and deliberate utilisation.'

PM Narendra Modi presents India's climate action agenda at COP26 climate summit

On the birth anniversary of India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that India is becoming fully capable of meeting any internal or external challenge. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Modi added that the country will be able to achieve goals only if people stay united. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Be it land, water, air or space, India's capabilities and resolve are now unprecedented on every front, the leader said.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-rome-modi-pitches-one-earth-one-health-vision-says-ready-to-produce-5-billion-covid-vaccines-425443">India ready to produce 5 billion Covid vaccines: PM Modi at G20 Summit</a>

"Sardar Patel always wanted India to be capable, inclusive, sensitive, alert, humble and developed. He always prioritised national interest," the leader said. &nbsp;

Getting inspiration from him, the country is today becoming fully capable of meeting both external and internal challenges, the PM said. &nbsp;

“Today the nation is paying tribute to Sardar Patel, who gave his life for 'Ek Bharat, shreshth Bharat'. Sardar Patel lives not only in history but also the hearts of all Indians,” added&nbsp;Modi. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-attend-supply-chain-resilience-event-hosted-by-us-president-joe-biden-in-rome-425458" hreflang="en">Modi to attend ‘Supply Chain Resilience’ event hosted by US Biden in Rome</a>

The country has been freed of many decades-old unwanted laws in seven years, he noted. &nbsp;

“Ideals that cherish national unity have been given new heights. Be it J&amp;K, Northeast or any village in the Himalayas, today all are on the path of progress. The development of modern infrastructure in the country is reducing the gap between geographical and historic distances,” said Modi. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

On the birth anniversary of India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that India is becoming fully capable of meeting any internal or external challenge.

On the birth anniversary of India’s first deputy prime minister and home minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that India is becoming fully capable of meeting any internal or external challenge. Modi added that the country will be able to achieve goals only if people stay united. Be it land, water, air or space, India's capabilities and resolve are now unprecedented on every front, the leader said. Also Read | India ready to produce 5 billion Covid vaccines: PM Modi at G20 Summit "Sardar Patel always wanted India to be capable, inclusive, sensitive, alert, humble and developed. He always prioritised national interest," the leader said. Getting inspiration from him, the country is today becoming fully capable of meeting both external and internal challenges, the PM said. “Today the nation is paying tribute to Sardar Patel, who gave his life for 'Ek Bharat, shreshth Bharat'. Sardar Patel lives not only in history but also the hearts of all Indians,” added Modi. Also Read: Modi to attend ‘Supply Chain Resilience’ event hosted by US Biden in Rome The country has been freed of many decades-old unwanted laws in seven years, he noted. “Ideals that cherish national unity have been given new heights. Be it J&K, Northeast or any village in the Himalayas, today all are on the path of progress. The development of modern infrastructure in the country is reducing the gap between geographical and historic distances,” said Modi. (With inputs from agencies)

India capable of meeting any challenge, says PM Modi on Vallabhai Patel’s birth anniversary

Stressing on 'One Earth, One Health' vision of collaborative approach in dealing with Covid virus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is ready to produce over 5 billion coronavirus vaccine doses by the end of next year to help the world in the fight against the pandemic.

Speaking in his intervention at the session on “global economy and global health” at G20 Summit session in Rome on Saturday, Modi also flagged the issue of facilitating international travel and talked about the mechanism of mutual recognition of vaccine certification as a means of achieving this, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said, briefing reporters on PM’s engagements.

PM Modi invited G20 countries to make India their partner in economic recovery and supply chain diversification. He also brought out the fact that despite challenges posed by the pandemic, India continued to be a trusted partner in the context of reliable supply chains, Shringla said.

Noting that the WHO approval for the emergency use authorisation for India's indigenous vaccine, Covaxin,&nbsp;is pending, Modi suggested that a nod for the jab will help India assist other countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-interacts-with-french-president-macron-on-the-sidelines-of-g20-425323">PM Modi interacts with French President Macron on the sidelines of G20</a>

A technical advisory group of the UN health agency will meet on November 3 to conduct a final "risk-benefit assessment" for Emergency Use Listing of Covaxin. Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and AstraZeneca and Oxford University's Covishield are the two widely used vaccines in India.

Shringla said that Prime Minister Modi expressed satisfaction over the G20’s decision to come up with a 15 per minimum corporate tax to make the global financial architecture more “just and fair”.

The decision is aimed at ensuring that companies pay a certain amount of tax in the countries they are located in.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-kicks-off-in-rome-with-focus-on-climate-covid-and-economy-425330">Also read |&nbsp;G20 Summit kicks off in Rome with focus on climate, COVID and economy</a>

“It is pertinent to mention that it was in 2014 that the prime minister had first proposed the idea of a minimum corporate tax in order to prevent to some extent evasion of taxes,” he said.

Shringla said that Pope Francis accepted PM Modi's invitation to visit India.

Speaking of the Vatican visit, Shringla said, “The last papal visit to India was in 1999 when Pope John Paul II visited the country. Pope Francis has accepted PM Modi's invitation. In his own words, he said: “You (PM Modi) have given me the greatest gift. I am looking forward to visiting India". Pope Francis has accepted the PM Modi invitation and looking forward to visit India.”

Also read |&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-leaders-agree-on-historic-corporate-tax-deal-425387">G20 leaders agree on historic corporate tax deal</a>

The meeting between PM Modi and Pope Francis which was scheduled for 20 minutes, lasted for around an hour.

Apart from Pope Francis, PM Modi on Saturday also invited French President Emmanuel Macron to visit India, Shringla said.

On the second day of the summit on Sunday, PM Modi is scheduled attend an event hosted by US President Joe Biden in Rome. Other bilateral meetings are scheduled as well.&nbsp;

Modi will attend an event hosted by US President Joe Biden on “Supply China Resilience” and hold other bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rome, said Shringla.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Stressing on 'One Earth, One Health' vision of collaborative approach in dealing with Covid virus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is ready to produce over 5 billion coronavirus vaccine doses by the end of next year to help the world in the fight against the pandemic.

Stressing on 'One Earth, One Health' vision of collaborative approach in dealing with Covid virus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is ready to produce over 5 billion coronavirus vaccine doses by the end of next year to help the world in the fight against the pandemic. Speaking in his intervention at the session on “global economy and global health” at G20 Summit session in Rome on Saturday, Modi also flagged the issue of facilitating international travel and talked about the mechanism of mutual recognition of vaccine certification as a means of achieving this, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said, briefing reporters on PM’s engagements. PM Modi invited G20 countries to make India their partner in economic recovery and supply chain diversification. He also brought out the fact that despite challenges posed by the pandemic, India continued to be a trusted partner in the context of reliable supply chains, Shringla said. Noting that the WHO approval for the emergency use authorisation for India's indigenous vaccine, Covaxin, is pending, Modi suggested that a nod for the jab will help India assist other countries. Also read | PM Modi interacts with French President Macron on the sidelines of G20 A technical advisory group of the UN health agency will meet on November 3 to conduct a final "risk-benefit assessment" for Emergency Use Listing of Covaxin. Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and AstraZeneca and Oxford University's Covishield are the two widely used vaccines in India. Shringla said that Prime Minister Modi expressed satisfaction over the G20’s decision to come up with a 15 per minimum corporate tax to make the global financial architecture more “just and fair”. The decision is aimed at ensuring that companies pay a certain amount of tax in the countries they are located in. Also read | G20 Summit kicks off in Rome with focus on climate, COVID and economy “It is pertinent to mention that it was in 2014 that the prime minister had first proposed the idea of a minimum corporate tax in order to prevent to some extent evasion of taxes,” he said. Shringla said that Pope Francis accepted PM Modi's invitation to visit India. Speaking of the Vatican visit, Shringla said, “The last papal visit to India was in 1999 when Pope John Paul II visited the country. Pope Francis has accepted PM Modi's invitation. In his own words, he said: “You (PM Modi) have given me the greatest gift. I am looking forward to visiting India". Pope Francis has accepted the PM Modi invitation and looking forward to visit India.” Also read | G20 leaders agree on historic corporate tax deal The meeting between PM Modi and Pope Francis which was scheduled for 20 minutes, lasted for around an hour. Apart from Pope Francis, PM Modi on Saturday also invited French President Emmanuel Macron to visit India, Shringla said. On the second day of the summit on Sunday, PM Modi is scheduled attend an event hosted by US President Joe Biden in Rome. Other bilateral meetings are scheduled as well. Modi will attend an event hosted by US President Joe Biden on “Supply China Resilience” and hold other bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rome, said Shringla. (With inputs from agencies)

At Rome, Modi pitches ‘One Earth, One Health’ vision, says ready to produce 5 billion Covid vaccines

En route to Italy for the G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special VVIP flight flew over Pakistani airspace on Friday. &nbsp;

On its return journey, the aircraft will use it again after getting formal permission from Islamabad, a media report said on Sunday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-capable-of-meeting-any-challenge-says-pm-modi-on-vallabhai-patels-birth-anniversary-425481" hreflang="en">India capable of meeting any challenge, says PM Modi on Vallabhai Patel’s birth anniversary</a>

Entering the Pakistani airspace from Bahawalpur, Prime Minister Modi's plane Boeing 777, 300ER, K7066 passed through Turbat and Panjgur. It reached Italy via Iran and Turkey, reported The Express Tribune. &nbsp;

According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) sources, Indian authorities requested Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for permission to use the airspace for the special flight of the prime minister. Pakistan accepted the request and allowed Modi to fly through its airspace. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-gifts-silver-candle-stand-book-on-indias-commitment-on-environment-to-pope-francis-425422" hreflang="en">PM Modi gifts silver candle stand, book on India's commitment on environment to Pope Francis</a>

On Friday, Modi arrived in Italy to participate in the G20 Summit, where the heads of world's 20 biggest economies have gathered in Rome. The leaders are focusing on Covid, economy and climate issues. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The report quoted the CAA spokesperson as saying that the prime minister's plane will use airspace of Pakistan again on its way back to India after the climate summit in Glasgow. &nbsp;

Earlier, a commercial aircraft of India had also used Pakistani airspace after obtaining permission, the newspaper said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

En route to Italy for the G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special VVIP flight flew over Pakistani airspace on Friday. On its return journey, the aircraft will use it again after getting formal permission from Islamabad, a media report said on Sunday.

En route to Italy for the G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special VVIP flight flew over Pakistani airspace on Friday. On its return journey, the aircraft will use it again after getting formal permission from Islamabad, a media report said on Sunday. Also Read: India capable of meeting any challenge, says PM Modi on Vallabhai Patel’s birth anniversary Entering the Pakistani airspace from Bahawalpur, Prime Minister Modi's plane Boeing 777, 300ER, K7066 passed through Turbat and Panjgur. It reached Italy via Iran and Turkey, reported The Express Tribune. According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) sources, Indian authorities requested Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for permission to use the airspace for the special flight of the prime minister. Pakistan accepted the request and allowed Modi to fly through its airspace. Also Read: PM Modi gifts silver candle stand, book on India's commitment on environment to Pope Francis On Friday, Modi arrived in Italy to participate in the G20 Summit, where the heads of world's 20 biggest economies have gathered in Rome. The leaders are focusing on Covid, economy and climate issues. The report quoted the CAA spokesperson as saying that the prime minister's plane will use airspace of Pakistan again on its way back to India after the climate summit in Glasgow. Earlier, a commercial aircraft of India had also used Pakistani airspace after obtaining permission, the newspaper said. (With inputs from agencies)

En route to Italy for G20 Summit, Indian PM Modi’s flight flew over Pakistani airspace

In Pics | PM Modi, along with G20 leaders visit the iconic Trevi fountain in Rome

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a brief interaction with French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G20 summit as they both discussed extensive cooperation on various aspects. "Today’s talks will add momentum to the bilateral ties between the two nations," PM Modi tweeted.

The meeting was conducted in Rome with EAM S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval also present at the table.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Productive discussions between PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> on the sidelines of the <a href="https://twitter.com/g20org?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@g20org</a> Summit. India and France are cooperating extensively in various sectors. Today’s talks will add momentum to the bilateral ties between the two nations. <a href="https://t.co/e8QgT6rkVy">pic.twitter.com/e8QgT6rkVy</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1454429832557776898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This happens to be the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since the AUKUS trilateral security pact was announced. The two spoke last in September over a phone call where they discussed various regional issues including developments in Afghanistan, bilateral collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region and the importance of the India-France partnership.

PM Modi arrived at the venue of the G20 Summit in Rome for the first in-person G20 summit since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-kicks-off-in-rome-with-focus-on-climate-covid-and-economy-425330">Also read |&nbsp;G20 Summit kicks off in Rome with focus on climate, COVID and economy</a>

On reaching, he also met with US President Joe Biden, followed by an interaction with Pope Francis. PM Modi also met his Canadian counterpart, Justin Trudeau, during the interactions.

In the evening, PM Modi will visit Terme di Diocleziano for a cultural event. There is also a dinner planned for various G20 leaders and partner companies.

After Rome, PM Modi is expected to leave for Glasgow where he is attending the global COP26 summit. "I will be participating in the high-level segment of COP-26 titled 'World Leaders' Summit' (WLS) on 1-2 November, 2021 along with 120 Heads of States/Governments from around the world," he had earlier said in a press release.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a brief interaction with French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G20 summit as they both discussed extensive cooperation on various aspects.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a brief interaction with French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G20 summit as they both discussed extensive cooperation on various aspects. "Today’s talks will add momentum to the bilateral ties between the two nations," PM Modi tweeted. The meeting was conducted in Rome with EAM S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval also present at the table. Productive discussions between PM @narendramodi and President @EmmanuelMacron on the sidelines of the @g20org Summit. India and France are cooperating extensively in various sectors. Today’s talks will add momentum to the bilateral ties between the two nations. pic.twitter.com/e8QgT6rkVy — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 30, 2021 × This happens to be the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since the AUKUS trilateral security pact was announced. The two spoke last in September over a phone call where they discussed various regional issues including developments in Afghanistan, bilateral collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region and the importance of the India-France partnership. PM Modi arrived at the venue of the G20 Summit in Rome for the first in-person G20 summit since the coronavirus pandemic took over the world. Also read | G20 Summit kicks off in Rome with focus on climate, COVID and economy On reaching, he also met with US President Joe Biden, followed by an interaction with Pope Francis. PM Modi also met his Canadian counterpart, Justin Trudeau, during the interactions. In the evening, PM Modi will visit Terme di Diocleziano for a cultural event. There is also a dinner planned for various G20 leaders and partner companies. After Rome, PM Modi is expected to leave for Glasgow where he is attending the global COP26 summit. "I will be participating in the high-level segment of COP-26 titled 'World Leaders' Summit' (WLS) on 1-2 November, 2021 along with 120 Heads of States/Governments from around the world," he had earlier said in a press release.

PM Modi interacts with French President Macron on the sidelines of G20

Prime Minister arrived at the venue to participate in the two-day G20 Summit. This summit will be the eighth G20 Summit attended by the Prime Minister. This is the first in-person summit since the coronavirus pandemic began.

G20 summit kicks-off: Indian PM Modi arrives at venue

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Italy to attend the 16th G-20 Summit and the World Leaders’ Summit of COP-26 respectively. He will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his first day of arrival in Rome.

Prime Minister Modi arrives in Italy to attend the 16th G-20 Summit

India's PM Narendra Modi is in Italy for the G20 summit. In a message to world leaders ahead of the summit, PM Modi stated that the focus must be on pandemic recovery, climate change and tackling cross-border terrorism.

G20 summit in Rome: India to raise issues related to cross border terrorism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend this weekend’s international climate negotiations that will take place in Glasgow, Scotland. It’s the first time he’s attending this since the Paris climate accord was reached in 2015 and promises to have an impact on the conversation around developing economies and reducing carbon emissions; VOA brings in more.

Indian PM Narendra Modi to attend COP26 Summit in Glasgow

India's PM Narendra Modi is in Italy for the G20 summit. In a message to world leaders, PM Modi stated that the focus must be on pandemic recovery, climate change and tackling cross-border terrorism. PM Modi's visit comes at a time when the world is looking to India to set an example in sustainability and speedy recovery post-covid-19 crisis.

G20 Summit in Rome: PM Narendra Modi meets EU leaders

India's PM Narendra Modi is in Italy for the G20 summit. In a message to world leaders, PM Modi stated that the focus must be on pandemic recovery, climate change and tackling cross-border terrorism.

'Covid Pandemic, climate change, tackling cross-border terrorism,' PM Modi's message to G20 leaders

Indian PM Narendra Modi has reached Rome and is currently paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, here are the live visuals coming in.

Indian PM Narendra Modi Reaches Rome for G20 summit, pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi

Prime minister Narendra Modi will be representing India at the 16th G20 summit in Rome, it will be the eight summit that PM Modi will be attending, he will be discussing a range of issues from combating China, climate change to pitching for a global approach for dealing with the situation in Afghanistan.

PM Narendra Modi to attend 8th G20 summit in Rome

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific.

Addressing the leaders via video conferencing, Modi said, “In 2022, our partnership would complete 30 years. India will also complete 75 years of its Independence. I am delighted that we will celebrate this important milestone as ASEAN-India Friendship Year.”

Modi stressed that the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India.

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Addressing the India-ASEAN Summit. <a href="https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A">https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1453614830187794436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“History is a witness that India and ASEAN have had lively relations for thousands of years. It is reflected in our shared values, traditions, languages, scriptures, architecture, culture, food. That is why the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-participates-in-16th-east-asia-summit-reaffirms-indias-focus-on-a-free-open-inclusive-indo-pacific-424538">PM Modi participates in 16th East Asia Summit, reaffirms India's focus on a free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific</a>

Commenting on the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, “Due to COVID19, all of us had to face a lot of challenges. This challenging time was also a test of the India-ASEAN friendship. Our mutual cooperation in COVID-19 era will keep strengthening our relations in the future and form a base for goodwill between our people.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vietnam-invites-india-for-asean-virtual-summit-in-november-336723">Vietnam invites India for ASEAN virtual summit in November</a>

Later in a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Riva Ganguly Das said PM Modi has invited the ASEAN members to join the Indo Pacific Initiative (IPOI).

“The adoption of the joint statement on ASEAN outlook on Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific oceans initiative is one of the very major highlights of this summit. We have built upon the convergences that exist between the AOIP as the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and our own Indo-Pacific initiative IPOI,” she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-asean-increase-people-to-people-engagement-with-1st-ever-hackathon-362978">India, ASEAN increase people to people engagement with 1st ever Hackathon</a>

“We have the leaders adopted the joint statement and this joint statement charts the way forward for practical implementation of the convergence in a vision of Indo-Pacific. This is the objective to of course to ensure peace, prosperity and stability in the region.”

When she was asked whether issues like the South China Sea and Afghanistan were discussed, Das said, “The East Asia summit exchanged views on the regional and international seas. Highlighting the Afghanistan situation, PM (Modi) talked about the terrorism issue and called for a zero-tolerance to terrorism.”

She said a series of activities will be conducted to commemorate the 30 years of the ASEAN-India partnership.

“The leaders of India and ASEAN have declared the year 2022 as ASEAN-India Friendship Year as it marks 30 years of ASEAN-India partnership. A series of activities will be conducted around the year to commemorate this,” Das said.

(With inputs from agencies)

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the 18th ASEAN-India Summit where he touched upon a range of key issues, including COVID-19 pandemic, South China Sea issue, and stressed how ASEAN members play an important role in India’s vision for the Indo-Pacific. Addressing the leaders via video conferencing, Modi said, “In 2022, our partnership would complete 30 years. India will also complete 75 years of its Independence. I am delighted that we will celebrate this important milestone as ASEAN-India Friendship Year.” Modi stressed that the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India. Addressing the India-ASEAN Summit. https://t.co/OaQazNtC2A — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 28, 2021 × “History is a witness that India and ASEAN have had lively relations for thousands of years. It is reflected in our shared values, traditions, languages, scriptures, architecture, culture, food. That is why the unity and centrality of ASEAN has always been a priority for India,” he said. Also read | PM Modi participates in 16th East Asia Summit, reaffirms India's focus on a free, open, inclusive Indo-Pacific Commenting on the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, “Due to COVID19, all of us had to face a lot of challenges. This challenging time was also a test of the India-ASEAN friendship. Our mutual cooperation in COVID-19 era will keep strengthening our relations in the future and form a base for goodwill between our people.” Also read | Vietnam invites India for ASEAN virtual summit in November Later in a press briefing, Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East) Riva Ganguly Das said PM Modi has invited the ASEAN members to join the Indo Pacific Initiative (IPOI). “The adoption of the joint statement on ASEAN outlook on Indo-Pacific and India's Indo-Pacific oceans initiative is one of the very major highlights of this summit. We have built upon the convergences that exist between the AOIP as the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and our own Indo-Pacific initiative IPOI,” she said. Also read | India, ASEAN increase people to people engagement with 1st ever Hackathon “We have the leaders adopted the joint statement and this joint statement charts the way forward for practical implementation of the convergence in a vision of Indo-Pacific. This is the objective to of course to ensure peace, prosperity and stability in the region.” When she was asked whether issues like the South China Sea and Afghanistan were discussed, Das said, “The East Asia summit exchanged views on the regional and international seas. Highlighting the Afghanistan situation, PM (Modi) talked about the terrorism issue and called for a zero-tolerance to terrorism.” She said a series of activities will be conducted to commemorate the 30 years of the ASEAN-India partnership. “The leaders of India and ASEAN have declared the year 2022 as ASEAN-India Friendship Year as it marks 30 years of ASEAN-India partnership. A series of activities will be conducted around the year to commemorate this,” Das said. (With inputs from agencies)

South China Sea, Indo-Pacific find mention during Indian PM Modi’s meet with ASEAN leaders

The Indian government has defended in the Delhi High Court the legal validity of its new IT rule requiring messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, to trace&nbsp;the first originator of the information, saying that the law empowers it to expect such entities to create safe cyberspace and counter illegal content either themselves or by assisting the law enforcement agencies.

The government said that Section 87 of the Information Technology Act gave it the power to formulate Rule 4(2) of the Intermediary Rules -- which mandates a significant social media intermediary to enable the identification of the first originator of information in legitimate state interest&nbsp;of curbing the menace of fake news and offences concerning national security and public order as well as women and children.

In its affidavit filed in response to WhatsApp's challenge to the rule on the ground that breaking the encryption invades its users&nbsp;privacy, the Centre has claimed that platforms monetise users&nbsp;information for business/ commercial purposes are not legally entitled to claim that it protects privacy.

Also Read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-pay-french-publishers-for-news-content-422671">Facebook to pay French publishers for news content</a>

Petitioners (WhatsApp and Facebook), being multi-billion dollar enterprises, almost singularly on the basis of mining, owning and storing the private data of natural persons across the world and thereafter monetizing the same, cannot claim any representative privacy right on behalf of the natural persons using the platform,&nbsp;said the affidavit filed by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

WhatsApp collects users&nbsp;personal information and shares it with Facebook and third-party entities for business/commercial purposes (WhatsApp's privacy policy of 2016 and its 2021 update). In fact, the regulators of various countries dearly hold that Facebook should be fixed with accountability for its services and data management practices,&nbsp;it added.

The government&nbsp;said reasons regarding 'technical difficulties cannot be an excuse to refuse compliance to the law of the land and if a platform does not have the means to trace the first originator&nbsp;without breaking the encryption then it is the platform which ought to develop such mechanism&nbsp;in larger public duty.

The Rule does not contemplate the platforms breaking the end-to-end encryption. The Rule only contemplates the platform to provide the details of the first originator by any means or mechanism available with the platform. If the platform does not have such means, the platform ought to develop such mechanism considering the platforms widespread prevalence and the larger public duty, the affidavit said.

The government said if the intermediary is not able to prevent or detect the criminal activities happening on its platform, then the problem lies in the platform's architecture and the platform must rectify their architecture and not expect the change of legislation. Reasons regarding 'technical difficulties' cannot be an excuse to refuse compliance to the law of the land.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/facebook-planning-to-change-its-name-announcement-likely-in-a-week-report-422190">Facebook planning to change its name, announcement likely in a week: Report</a>

In August, a bench headed by Chief Justice DN Patel had sought the Centre's stand on WhatsApp petition challenging new rule on the ground it violates the right to privacy and is unconstitutional.

WhatsApp's parent company Facebook has also mounted a similar challenge to the rule.

In its plea, WhatsApp had said that the traceability requirement forced it break end-to-end encryption&nbsp;and thus infringe upon the fundamental rights to privacy and free speech of the hundreds of millions of citizens using its platform to communicate privately and securely.

The Centre, in its response, has said that the petition by WhatsApp is not maintainable as a challenge to the constitutionality of any Indian law is not maintainable at the instance of a foreign commercial entity. 
It further claimed that Rule 4(2) is an embodiment of competing rights of citizens of India&nbsp;and aims to preserve the rights of vulnerable citizens within the cyberspace who can be or are victims of cyber-crime.

The government said there are checks and balances to ensure that the rule is not misused or invoked in cases where other less intrusive means are effective in identifying the originator of the information. 
The identification of the first originator pertains only to viral content relating to heinous crimes, as specified in the rule, and not identifying all users or citizens, it said.

If the IT Rules 2021 are not implemented the law enforcement agencies will have difficulty in tracing the origin of fake messages and such messages will percolate in other platforms thereby disturbing peace and harmony in the society further leading to public order issues,&nbsp;the affidavit said.

The government has also said that in case of any legal proceeding having any message on the platform as evidence, WhatsApp would lose the defence of 'intermediary protection' but it does not mean that WhatsApp will be held guilty and its officials would be legally responsible.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/whatsapp-adds-indian-rupee-symbol-to-chat-box-for-digital-payments-417405">WhatsApp adds Indian Rupee symbol to chat box for digital payments&nbsp;</a>

The courts can include WhatsApp as a respondent and consider 'Contributory Negligence' and 'Vicarious liability on WhatsApp and its executives' (under Section 85). Such liabilities will fructify only when such a case comes up and WhatsApp is named as an entity that it is sufficiently proved that it has contributed to the commission of the crime,&nbsp;it added.

The government also said that the Supreme Court itself had asked the Central government to take all the steps necessary to identify persons who create and circulate electronic information&nbsp;about certain offences such as sexual abuse.&nbsp;

The Indian government has defended in the Delhi High Court the legal validity of its new IT rule requiring messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, to trace the first originator of the information, saying that the law empowers it to expect such entities to create safe cyberspace and counter illegal content either themselves or by assisting the law enforcement agencies.

The Indian government has defended in the Delhi High Court the legal validity of its new IT rule requiring messaging apps, such as WhatsApp, to trace the first originator of the information, saying that the law empowers it to expect such entities to create safe cyberspace and counter illegal content either themselves or by assisting the law enforcement agencies. The government said that Section 87 of the Information Technology Act gave it the power to formulate Rule 4(2) of the Intermediary Rules -- which mandates a significant social media intermediary to enable the identification of the first originator of information in legitimate state interest of curbing the menace of fake news and offences concerning national security and public order as well as women and children. In its affidavit filed in response to WhatsApp's challenge to the rule on the ground that breaking the encryption invades its users privacy, the Centre has claimed that platforms monetise users information for business/ commercial purposes are not legally entitled to claim that it protects privacy. Also Read | Facebook to pay French publishers for news content Petitioners (WhatsApp and Facebook), being multi-billion dollar enterprises, almost singularly on the basis of mining, owning and storing the private data of natural persons across the world and thereafter monetizing the same, cannot claim any representative privacy right on behalf of the natural persons using the platform, said the affidavit filed by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. WhatsApp collects users personal information and shares it with Facebook and third-party entities for business/commercial purposes (WhatsApp's privacy policy of 2016 and its 2021 update). In fact, the regulators of various countries dearly hold that Facebook should be fixed with accountability for its services and data management practices, it added. The government said reasons regarding 'technical difficulties cannot be an excuse to refuse compliance to the law of the land and if a platform does not have the means to trace the first originator without breaking the encryption then it is the platform which ought to develop such mechanism in larger public duty. The Rule does not contemplate the platforms breaking the end-to-end encryption. The Rule only contemplates the platform to provide the details of the first originator by any means or mechanism available with the platform. If the platform does not have such means, the platform ought to develop such mechanism considering the platforms widespread prevalence and the larger public duty, the affidavit said. The government said if the intermediary is not able to prevent or detect the criminal activities happening on its platform, then the problem lies in the platform's architecture and the platform must rectify their architecture and not expect the change of legislation. Reasons regarding 'technical difficulties' cannot be an excuse to refuse compliance to the law of the land. Also read | Facebook planning to change its name, announcement likely in a week: Report In August, a bench headed by Chief Justice DN Patel had sought the Centre's stand on WhatsApp petition challenging new rule on the ground it violates the right to privacy and is unconstitutional. WhatsApp's parent company Facebook has also mounted a similar challenge to the rule. In its plea, WhatsApp had said that the traceability requirement forced it break end-to-end encryption and thus infringe upon the fundamental rights to privacy and free speech of the hundreds of millions of citizens using its platform to communicate privately and securely. The Centre, in its response, has said that the petition by WhatsApp is not maintainable as a challenge to the constitutionality of any Indian law is not maintainable at the instance of a foreign commercial entity. It further claimed that Rule 4(2) is an embodiment of competing rights of citizens of India and aims to preserve the rights of vulnerable citizens within the cyberspace who can be or are victims of cyber-crime. The government said there are checks and balances to ensure that the rule is not misused or invoked in cases where other less intrusive means are effective in identifying the originator of the information. The identification of the first originator pertains only to viral content relating to heinous crimes, as specified in the rule, and not identifying all users or citizens, it said. If the IT Rules 2021 are not implemented the law enforcement agencies will have difficulty in tracing the origin of fake messages and such messages will percolate in other platforms thereby disturbing peace and harmony in the society further leading to public order issues, the affidavit said. The government has also said that in case of any legal proceeding having any message on the platform as evidence, WhatsApp would lose the defence of 'intermediary protection' but it does not mean that WhatsApp will be held guilty and its officials would be legally responsible. Also Read | WhatsApp adds Indian Rupee symbol to chat box for digital payments The courts can include WhatsApp as a respondent and consider 'Contributory Negligence' and 'Vicarious liability on WhatsApp and its executives' (under Section 85). Such liabilities will fructify only when such a case comes up and WhatsApp is named as an entity that it is sufficiently proved that it has contributed to the commission of the crime, it added. The government also said that the Supreme Court itself had asked the Central government to take all the steps necessary to identify persons who create and circulate electronic information about certain offences such as sexual abuse.

Indian govt in high court defends IT rule requiring WhatsApp to trace originator of message

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation a day after India achieved the major milestone after delivering 100 crore vaccine doses across India, at least 31% are fully vaccinated with two doses.

PM Narendra Modi addresses nation after India achieves milestone of 1 billion Covid vaccines doses

A day after India scripted history by administering one billion COVID-19 doses in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that it was a “beginning of a new chapter of a new India.”

In a televised address, Prime Minister Modi said that economic growth was getting a boost from rising vaccinations across the country and urged citizens to purchase locally manufactured products over the upcoming festive season.

“There was a time when we would hear ‘Made in this nation’, ‘Made in that country’, but now all Indians understand the significance of ‘Made in India’,” Modi said.

“Urge all Indians to support Indian producers by purchasing ‘Made in India’ items and to advocate for ‘Vocal for Local’.”

Modi also called for vigilance against COVID-19 and recommended wearing masks during festivals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/one-billion-doses-india-showed-faith-in-science-innovations-pm-modi-422824">One billion doses:&nbsp;India showed faith in science, innovations, says&nbsp;PM Modi</a>

The Prime Minister said that India’s vaccination programme was “science-born, science-driven and science-based”.

“Yesterday, Oct 21, India achieved the difficult but extraordinary target of one billion, COVID-19 vaccine doses. This success is the success of India, success of every citizen,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-crosses-historic-one-billion-covid-19-vaccine-milestone-422530">India crosses historic one billion COVID-19 vaccine milestone</a>

“It is a matter of pride for us that India’s vaccination programme has been science-born, science-driven and science-based," Modi said.

The country, he said, had only one mantra —that if the disease does not discriminate, then there cannot be any discrimination in the vaccination.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-vaccination-in-india-crosses-1-billion-what-about-its-neighbours-422545">COVID-19 vaccination in India crosses 1 billion. What about its neighbours?</a>

"That's why it was ensured that VIP culture was not allowed," he said.

He pointed towards apprehensions from several quarters that it would be very difficult to fight this epidemic in a democracy like India.

“It was also being said for India, for the people of India that how will so much restraint, how so much discipline work here? But for us, democracy means everyone`s cooperation,” he said

Modi said leaders from across the world congratulated India on crossing the milestone of 100 crore vaccinations, terming it a huge and extraordinary accomplishment.

“Today many people are comparing India’s vaccination programme with other countries of the world,” he said.

He further said that the speed with which India crossed the 100-crore mark is also being appreciated but we often forget that from where we have started this.

Meanwhile, more than 1.59 billion vaccine doses have been administered so far to the eligible beneficiaries, according to India’s health ministry.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after India scripted history by administering one billion COVID-19 doses in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that it was a “beginning of a new chapter of a new India.

A day after India scripted history by administering one billion COVID-19 doses in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that it was a “beginning of a new chapter of a new India.” In a televised address, Prime Minister Modi said that economic growth was getting a boost from rising vaccinations across the country and urged citizens to purchase locally manufactured products over the upcoming festive season. “There was a time when we would hear ‘Made in this nation’, ‘Made in that country’, but now all Indians understand the significance of ‘Made in India’,” Modi said. “Urge all Indians to support Indian producers by purchasing ‘Made in India’ items and to advocate for ‘Vocal for Local’.” Modi also called for vigilance against COVID-19 and recommended wearing masks during festivals. Also read | One billion doses: India showed faith in science, innovations, says PM Modi The Prime Minister said that India’s vaccination programme was “science-born, science-driven and science-based”. “Yesterday, Oct 21, India achieved the difficult but extraordinary target of one billion, COVID-19 vaccine doses. This success is the success of India, success of every citizen,” he said. Also read | India crosses historic one billion COVID-19 vaccine milestone “It is a matter of pride for us that India’s vaccination programme has been science-born, science-driven and science-based," Modi said. The country, he said, had only one mantra —that if the disease does not discriminate, then there cannot be any discrimination in the vaccination. Also read | COVID-19 vaccination in India crosses 1 billion. What about its neighbours? "That's why it was ensured that VIP culture was not allowed," he said. He pointed towards apprehensions from several quarters that it would be very difficult to fight this epidemic in a democracy like India. “It was also being said for India, for the people of India that how will so much restraint, how so much discipline work here? But for us, democracy means everyone`s cooperation,” he said Modi said leaders from across the world congratulated India on crossing the milestone of 100 crore vaccinations, terming it a huge and extraordinary accomplishment. “Today many people are comparing India’s vaccination programme with other countries of the world,” he said. He further said that the speed with which India crossed the 100-crore mark is also being appreciated but we often forget that from where we have started this. Meanwhile, more than 1.59 billion vaccine doses have been administered so far to the eligible beneficiaries, according to India’s health ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Vocal for local’: PM Modi urges people to buy ‘Made in India’ products on Diwali

It is a big day for India as today it achieved the historic milestone of completing 1 billion (100 crores) doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, nine months after it launched “the world’s biggest vaccination drive”. WION's principal correspondent Siddhant Sibal brings all the latest developments.

'India scripted history,' PM Narendra Modi hails India's COVID-19 vaccine drive

In a big win for India's Buddhist diplomacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated an International airport in Kushinagar to encourage Buddhist pilgrimage in India. The inaugural flight landed from Sri Lanka with a 120-member delegation. In attendance were representatives from 12 Asian countries. Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: PM Modi inaugurates International airport at Kushinagar

As India scripted history on Thursday for administering a billion COVID-19 doses, prominent leaders and key personalities in India and the world congratulated the country for reaching the significant milestone.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first to congratulate the “collective spirit of 1.3 billion people" and express gratitude to the medical practitioners for their effort.

"India scripts history. We are witnessing the triumph of Indian science, enterprise and collective spirit of 130 crore Indians. Congrats India on crossing 100 crore vaccinations. Gratitude to our doctors, nurses and all those who worked to achieve this feat. #VaccineCentury," he tweeted.

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India scripts history. 
 
We are witnessing the triumph of Indian science, enterprise and collective spirit of 130 crore Indians. 
 
Congrats India on crossing 100 crore vaccinations. Gratitude to our doctors, nurses and all those who worked to achieve this feat. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineCentury?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineCentury</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1451051712387731458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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WHO’s regional director of South Asia Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh also congratulated the Indian people for the historic feat.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/WHOSEARO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHOSEARO</a>’s Regional Director Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh congratulates <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> for crossing <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/100CroreVaccination?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#100CroreVaccination</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineCentury?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineCentury</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> <a href="https://t.co/AcPhv5u3o8">pic.twitter.com/AcPhv5u3o8</a>
— WHO South-East Asia (@WHOSEARO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHOSEARO/status/1451052218660966401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Among the first foreign dignitaries to laud India was Bhutan’s foreign minister Tandi Dorji,&nbsp;along with country's Prime Minister Lotay Tshering.&nbsp;

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In what is a huge accomplishment not just for your country but the world, India hit the one billion mark of COVID-19 vaccination doses. On behalf of the people of Bhutan, I congratulate India! <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/1Af27xKOOF">https://t.co/1Af27xKOOF</a> <a href="https://t.co/zVcRRECc6S">pic.twitter.com/zVcRRECc6S</a>
— PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBhutan/status/1451055499701489669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations India 🇮🇳 for administering 1 billion COVID-19 vaccinations - a historic milestone!
— ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FMBhutan/status/1451046204704313354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Israeli Prime Minister Neftali Bennett&nbsp;also extended his wishes to the Indian people.

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Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> on leading India's successful COVID-19 vaccination campaign that has now administered more than 1 billion vaccines to the Indian people. 
 
These life-saving vaccines are helping us all defeat the global pandemic. 
🇮🇱💉🇮🇳
— Naftali Bennett בנט (@naftalibennett) <a href="https://twitter.com/naftalibennett/status/1451119609843752963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India’s health minister Mansukh Mandaviya visited the COVID-19 War Room in national capital Delhi and interacted with staff to mark the historic achievement.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya visits COVID19 War Room in Delhi, interacts with staff and distributes sweets to mark India achieving one billion COVID19 vaccinations. Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan also present <a href="https://t.co/WlaTi76dJJ">pic.twitter.com/WlaTi76dJJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1451051452458160128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India’s home minister Amit Shah also joined his peers and tweeted in Hindi saying, "I thank all the scientists, researchers and health workers who have contributed in this Mahayagya (feat) by overcoming many challenges and congratulate Modi ji who is determined for the safety and health of every person. Jai Hind!"

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इस ऐतिहासिक उपलब्धि पर पूरे देश को बधाई देता हूँ। 
 
अनेकों चुनौतियों को पार कर इस महायज्ञ में अपना योगदान देने वाले सभी वैज्ञानिकों, शोधकर्ताओं व स्वास्थ्यकर्मियों का आभार व हर व्यक्ति की सुरक्षा व स्वास्थ्य हेतु संकल्पित मोदी जी का अभिनन्दन करता हूँ। 
 
जय हिन्द! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineCentury?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineCentury</a> <a href="https://t.co/YDB0fxlTJN">pic.twitter.com/YDB0fxlTJN</a>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1451053676009639941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

As India scripted history on Thursday for administering a billion COVID-19 doses, prominent leaders and key personalities in India and the world congratulated the country for reaching the significant milestone.

As India scripted history on Thursday for administering a billion COVID-19 doses, prominent leaders and key personalities in India and the world congratulated the country for reaching the significant milestone. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first to congratulate the “collective spirit of 1.3 billion people" and express gratitude to the medical practitioners for their effort. "India scripts history. We are witnessing the triumph of Indian science, enterprise and collective spirit of 130 crore Indians. Congrats India on crossing 100 crore vaccinations. Gratitude to our doctors, nurses and all those who worked to achieve this feat. #VaccineCentury," he tweeted. India scripts history. We are witnessing the triumph of Indian science, enterprise and collective spirit of 130 crore Indians. Congrats India on crossing 100 crore vaccinations. Gratitude to our doctors, nurses and all those who worked to achieve this feat. #VaccineCentury — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 21, 2021 × WHO’s regional director of South Asia Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh also congratulated the Indian people for the historic feat. .@WHOSEARO’s Regional Director Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh congratulates #India for crossing #100CroreVaccination.#VaccineCentury #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/AcPhv5u3o8 — WHO South-East Asia (@WHOSEARO) October 21, 2021 × Among the first foreign dignitaries to laud India was Bhutan’s foreign minister Tandi Dorji, along with country's Prime Minister Lotay Tshering. In what is a huge accomplishment not just for your country but the world, India hit the one billion mark of COVID-19 vaccination doses. On behalf of the people of Bhutan, I congratulate India! @narendramodi @PMOIndia https://t.co/1Af27xKOOF pic.twitter.com/zVcRRECc6S — PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) October 21, 2021 × Congratulations India 🇮🇳 for administering 1 billion COVID-19 vaccinations - a historic milestone! — ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) October 21, 2021 × Israeli Prime Minister Neftali Bennett also extended his wishes to the Indian people. Congratulations to @narendramodi on leading India's successful COVID-19 vaccination campaign that has now administered more than 1 billion vaccines to the Indian people. These life-saving vaccines are helping us all defeat the global pandemic. 🇮🇱💉🇮🇳 — Naftali Bennett בנט (@naftalibennett) October 21, 2021 × India’s health minister Mansukh Mandaviya visited the COVID-19 War Room in national capital Delhi and interacted with staff to mark the historic achievement. #WATCH Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya visits COVID19 War Room in Delhi, interacts with staff and distributes sweets to mark India achieving one billion COVID19 vaccinations. Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan also present pic.twitter.com/WlaTi76dJJ — ANI (@ANI) October 21, 2021 × India’s home minister Amit Shah also joined his peers and tweeted in Hindi saying, "I thank all the scientists, researchers and health workers who have contributed in this Mahayagya (feat) by overcoming many challenges and congratulate Modi ji who is determined for the safety and health of every person. Jai Hind!" इस ऐतिहासिक उपलब्धि पर पूरे देश को बधाई देता हूँ। अनेकों चुनौतियों को पार कर इस महायज्ञ में अपना योगदान देने वाले सभी वैज्ञानिकों, शोधकर्ताओं व स्वास्थ्यकर्मियों का आभार व हर व्यक्ति की सुरक्षा व स्वास्थ्य हेतु संकल्पित मोदी जी का अभिनन्दन करता हूँ। जय हिन्द! #VaccineCentury pic.twitter.com/YDB0fxlTJN — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) October 21, 2021 ×

‘Historic milestone’: PM Modi, world leaders congratulate India for administering one billion COVID-19 doses

Russia announced fresh talks on the crisis unfolding in Afghanistan. Moscow, Washington DC, Beijing ad Islamabad were all set to meet, however, United States decided to skip it citing logistical reasons. For more analysis on the Indian PM's speech, Dilip Sinha, a former envoy to UN joins for an exclusive conversation.

Dilip Sinha, former envoy to UN in conversation with WION on PM Modi's message to the Taliban & more

PM Modi has launched the Indian Space Association. Will the public-private partnership be a quantum leap for space exploration? We look at the most iconic moments of India's space odyssey.

WION Wideangle: India in the Space Age

Dr Manmohan Singh was Wednesday admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi owing to weakness and exhaustion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh a fast recovery on Thursday, a day after he was taken to hospital.

"I pray for the good health and speedy recovery of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji," PM Modi said on Twitter.

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I pray for the good health and speedy recovery of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1448504747426672647?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Singh was taken to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Wednesday due to fatigue and weakness.

The senior Congress politician, who turned 89 this month, had been receiving fever medication at home for the last several days.

He was taken to the All India Institute Of Medical Sciences last year after experiencing chest congestion.

He had bypass surgery in 2009, which he had successfully completed.

Dr Manmohan Singh, the Reserve Bank of India's Governor from 1982 to 1985, was India's 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014.

He is widely recognised as the architect of India's economic reforms programme, which liberalised the country's economy in 1991.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Dr Manmohan Singh was Wednesday admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi owing to weakness and exhaustion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh a fast recovery on Thursday, a day after he was taken to hospital.

Dr Manmohan Singh was Wednesday admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi owing to weakness and exhaustion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh a fast recovery on Thursday, a day after he was taken to hospital. "I pray for the good health and speedy recovery of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji," PM Modi said on Twitter. I pray for the good health and speedy recovery of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 14, 2021 × Singh was taken to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Wednesday due to fatigue and weakness. The senior Congress politician, who turned 89 this month, had been receiving fever medication at home for the last several days. He was taken to the All India Institute Of Medical Sciences last year after experiencing chest congestion. He had bypass surgery in 2009, which he had successfully completed. Dr Manmohan Singh, the Reserve Bank of India's Governor from 1982 to 1985, was India's 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. He is widely recognised as the architect of India's economic reforms programme, which liberalised the country's economy in 1991. (With inputs from agencies)

Dr Manmohan Singh in hospital, PM Modi prays for his ‘good health, speedy recovery’

Indian ambassador to the United States Tranjit Singh Sandhu speaks exclusively to WION's principal correspondent Siddhant Sibbal on Indian PM Narendra Modi's US visit.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised "excellent" performance at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Junior World Championship on Sunday, saying that the Indian contingent's victory will inspire a new generation of shooters. On the last day of events, India earned three additional gold medals, securing a first-place finish.

"Outstanding performance by our shooters! India emerges on top of the medal tally at the Shooting Junior World Championships with 40 medals including 16 Golds. Congratulations to the team and best wishes for the future. This success will inspire several budding shooters," PM Modi tweeted.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/issf-junior-shooting-world-championship-india-confirm-top-place-finish-with-30-medals-419374">ISSF Junior Shooting World Championship: India confirm top place finish with 30 medals</a>

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Outstanding performance by our shooters! India emerges on top of the medal tally at the Shooting Junior World Championships with 40 medals including 16 Golds. Congratulations to the team and best wishes for the future. This success will inspire several budding shooters. <a href="https://t.co/htz9e0SeqG">pic.twitter.com/htz9e0SeqG</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1447196443463217152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Vinay Pratap Singh Chandrawat of India won gold in the Junior Men's Double Trap with a score of 120, while teammate Sehajpreet Singh secured silver with a score of 114.

Manvi Soni won gold with a score of 105, Yshaya Contractor took silver with a score of 90, and Hitasha won bronze with a score of 76 in the women's event.

According to the Medal Standing table, Indian athletes comfortably took first place, winning 40 medals, 16 of which were gold. Athletes from the United States came in second with a total of 21 medals, seven of which were gold. The Italian team is in third place with ten medals, three of which are gold. Athletes from 16 countries won medals in total.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised "excellent" performance at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Junior World Championship on Sunday, saying that the Indian contingent's victory will inspire a new generation of shooters.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised "excellent" performance at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Junior World Championship on Sunday, saying that the Indian contingent's victory will inspire a new generation of shooters. On the last day of events, India earned three additional gold medals, securing a first-place finish. "Outstanding performance by our shooters! India emerges on top of the medal tally at the Shooting Junior World Championships with 40 medals including 16 Golds. Congratulations to the team and best wishes for the future. This success will inspire several budding shooters," PM Modi tweeted. ALSO READ: ISSF Junior Shooting World Championship: India confirm top place finish with 30 medals Outstanding performance by our shooters! India emerges on top of the medal tally at the Shooting Junior World Championships with 40 medals including 16 Golds. Congratulations to the team and best wishes for the future. This success will inspire several budding shooters. pic.twitter.com/htz9e0SeqG — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 10, 2021 × Vinay Pratap Singh Chandrawat of India won gold in the Junior Men's Double Trap with a score of 120, while teammate Sehajpreet Singh secured silver with a score of 114. Manvi Soni won gold with a score of 105, Yshaya Contractor took silver with a score of 90, and Hitasha won bronze with a score of 76 in the women's event. According to the Medal Standing table, Indian athletes comfortably took first place, winning 40 medals, 16 of which were gold. Athletes from the United States came in second with a total of 21 medals, seven of which were gold. The Italian team is in third place with ten medals, three of which are gold. Athletes from 16 countries won medals in total.

PM Modi praises India's success in Junior World Championship, says it will inspire budding shooters

In order to address the twin challenges of climate change and malnutrition, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched 35 crop varieties with special traits, saying that science and technology are being used on priority for solutions to tackle the climate change impact on agriculture.

These special traits crop varieties also include those that address the anti-nutritional factors found in some crops that adversely affect human and animal health.

Stating that climate change is adversely impacting agriculture, Modi said, “Due to climate change, new types of pests, new diseases, epidemics are coming. Due to this, there is a big threat to the health of humans and livestock and crops are also being affected.”

“Intensive research on these aspects is necessary continuously. When science, government and society work together, it gets even better results. This nexus of farmers and scientists will further strengthen the nation to face new challenges,” PM Modi said while addressing the nation via video conferencing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-farmers-stage-nationwide-protests-against-reforms-416365">Indian farmers stage nationwide protests against reforms</a>

The prime minister also interacted with farmers from different states to take stock of how government schemes have benefited them.

During the interaction, the farmers also shared how they adopted new farm and processing techniques even in different terrains.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-international-politics-over-indian-farmers-is-a-dangerous-trend-348199">Why international politics over Indian farmers is a dangerous trend</a>

These special varieties of seeds have been developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), an autonomous body responsible for co-ordinating agricultural education and research in India.

It has produced the crop varieties, the body stated, with specific features to meet the twin concerns of climate change and malnutrition.

The 35 such crop varieties with ‘drought-tolerant’ characteristics include chickpea, wilt- and early-maturing soybean, disease-resistant rice varieties, and biofortified wheat, pearl millet, maize, and chickpea, quinoa, buckwheat, winged bean, and faba.

(With inputs from agencies)

In order to address the twin challenges of climate change and malnutrition, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched 35 crop varieties with special traits, saying that science and technology are being used on priority for solutions to tackle the climate change impact on agriculture.

In order to address the twin challenges of climate change and malnutrition, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched 35 crop varieties with special traits, saying that science and technology are being used on priority for solutions to tackle the climate change impact on agriculture. These special traits crop varieties also include those that address the anti-nutritional factors found in some crops that adversely affect human and animal health. Stating that climate change is adversely impacting agriculture, Modi said, “Due to climate change, new types of pests, new diseases, epidemics are coming. Due to this, there is a big threat to the health of humans and livestock and crops are also being affected.” “Intensive research on these aspects is necessary continuously. When science, government and society work together, it gets even better results. This nexus of farmers and scientists will further strengthen the nation to face new challenges,” PM Modi said while addressing the nation via video conferencing. Also read | Indian farmers stage nationwide protests against reforms The prime minister also interacted with farmers from different states to take stock of how government schemes have benefited them. During the interaction, the farmers also shared how they adopted new farm and processing techniques even in different terrains. Also read | Why international politics over Indian farmers is a dangerous trend These special varieties of seeds have been developed by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), an autonomous body responsible for co-ordinating agricultural education and research in India. It has produced the crop varieties, the body stated, with specific features to meet the twin concerns of climate change and malnutrition. The 35 such crop varieties with ‘drought-tolerant’ characteristics include chickpea, wilt- and early-maturing soybean, disease-resistant rice varieties, and biofortified wheat, pearl millet, maize, and chickpea, quinoa, buckwheat, winged bean, and faba. (With inputs from agencies)

India using scientific solutions to tackle climate change impact on agriculture: PM Modi

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday night visited the construction site of the new parliament building which is part of the Central Vista project.

The new parliament building is spread over 64,500 square metres. Reports say India's prime minister spoke to those involved in the construction of the new parliament as he inspected the work.

Watch:

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PM Modi reportedly spent one hour at the site which reports said was a surprise visit as it was not on the prime minister's schedule.

<img alt="PM Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="392827f5-e871-487a-9309-912987af879b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Modi333.JPG" />

Reports say the new Parliament building will be completed in November next year with work going on at full scale.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-of-a-tea-seller-is-addressing-un-for-fourth-time-pm-modi-hails-strength-of-indian-democracy-415903">Also Read:&nbsp;PM Modi hails strength of Indian democracy at UNGA</a>

<img alt="PM Modi at Central Vista" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb3629de-8ad1-49eb-80ee-a774176c37b7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Modi11.JPG" />

India's prime minister reached the site around 8:45 pm on Sunday evening as he inspected the work himself.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-uses-rabindranath-tagores-words-to-end-un-general-assembly-speech-what-it-means-415931">Also Read:&nbsp;PM Modi uses Rabindranath Tagore's words to end UN General Assembly speech</a>

The visit to the grand project came just hours after India's prime minister addressed the nation in his Mann ki Baat radio message.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/immense-potential-indian-pm-modi-urges-start-ups-to-pay-attention-to-herbal-products-416236">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;PM Modi urges start-ups to pay attention to herbal products</a>

PM Modi had arrived from the US after attending the UN General Assembly and had met US President Joe Biden while also taking part in the Quad in-person meeting with Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide&nbsp;Suga along with the US president.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday night visited the construction site of the new parliament building which is part of the Central Vista project. The new parliament building is spread over 64,500 square metres.

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday night visited the construction site of the new parliament building which is part of the Central Vista project. The new parliament building is spread over 64,500 square metres. Reports say India's prime minister spoke to those involved in the construction of the new parliament as he inspected the work. Watch: PM Modi reportedly spent one hour at the site which reports said was a surprise visit as it was not on the prime minister's schedule. Reports say the new Parliament building will be completed in November next year with work going on at full scale. Also Read: PM Modi hails strength of Indian democracy at UNGA India's prime minister reached the site around 8:45 pm on Sunday evening as he inspected the work himself. Also Read: PM Modi uses Rabindranath Tagore's words to end UN General Assembly speech The visit to the grand project came just hours after India's prime minister addressed the nation in his Mann ki Baat radio message. Also Read: PM Modi urges start-ups to pay attention to herbal products PM Modi had arrived from the US after attending the UN General Assembly and had met US President Joe Biden while also taking part in the Quad in-person meeting with Australian PM Scott Morrison, Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga along with the US president. (With inputs from Agencies)

Watch: PM Modi visits Central Vista construction area; inspects new parliament building site

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday went to the construction site of the new parliament building in New Delhi at around 8.45 pm. Watch this report for more details.

Indian PM Modi inspects construction site of new parliament building

'Our shared experience of fighting the pandemic has taught us that we are stronger and better when we are together. We saw glimpses of collective spirit, when our covid-19 warriors, doctors, nurses gave their best in fighting the pandemic,' says Indian PM Narendra Modi.

COVID-19 pandemic has taught us that we are stronger when we are together: PM Narendra Modi

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