Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday delivered his seventh consecutive Independence Day address to the nation. He addressed the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort to mark the 74th Independence Day.&nbsp;

The prime minister arrived at Red Fort at 7.18 am and addressed the nation at 7.30 am after unfurling the national flag.

In the past, his Independence Day speeches have been marked with big announcements, and his government's achievements. But this year, the prime minister focussed on the government's efforts to deal with COVID-19 in a&nbsp;ceremony muted by&nbsp;the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi first visited Rajghat to pay a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, at 7 am. His cavalcade then arrived at Red Fort's Lahore Gate.&nbsp;

He was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar. The prime minister then proceeded to inspect the Guard of Honour, being presented by the three armed forces and the Delhi Police.

At 7.28 am, PM Modi unfurled the national flag, while the Army Grenadiers Regimental Centre Military Band played the national anthem and elite 2233 Field Battery (Ceremonial) gave a 21 Gun Salute. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday delivered his seventh consecutive Independence Day address to the nation. He addressed the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort to mark the 74th Independence Day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday delivered his seventh consecutive Independence Day address to the nation. He addressed the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort to mark the 74th Independence Day. The prime minister arrived at Red Fort at 7.18 am and addressed the nation at 7.30 am after unfurling the national flag. In the past, his Independence Day speeches have been marked with big announcements, and his government's achievements. But this year, the prime minister focussed on the government's efforts to deal with COVID-19 in a ceremony muted by the coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Narendra Modi first visited Rajghat to pay a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, at 7 am. His cavalcade then arrived at Red Fort's Lahore Gate. He was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar. The prime minister then proceeded to inspect the Guard of Honour, being presented by the three armed forces and the Delhi Police. At 7.28 am, PM Modi unfurled the national flag, while the Army Grenadiers Regimental Centre Military Band played the national anthem and elite 2233 Field Battery (Ceremonial) gave a 21 Gun Salute.

PM Modi delivers his seventh consecutive I-Day address to the nation

PM Modi on the occasion of India's 74 Independence Day is addressing the nation from the Red Fort. PM said that the government is constantly working improving towards improving the connectivity in the nation.

Indian PM Narendra Modi: "Our focus is on improving connectivity" | India News

Meanwhile, in a direct reference to China and the recent standoff at the LoC between India and China, Indian PM Narendra Modi in his speech at the Red Fort said that no one can challenge India's sovereignty and if India sovereignty is attacked then India will respond with a befitting reply.

Indian PM Narendra Modi speech at India's 74th Independence Day: "Indian Army showed its might at LoC & LAC"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech on the Red Fort said, “Not one, not two, as many as three coronavirus vaccines are being tested in India.” He added, "India is ready to mass-produce COVID-19 vaccines to distribute across the country when scientists give the go-ahead to do so."

Indian PM Narendra Modi: India is working to develop 3 COVID-19 vaccines

PM Modi on the occasion of India's 74 Independence Day is addressing the nation from the Red Fort. PM launched the "National Digital Health Scheme" and explained that every Indian would get an ID card that would contain all relevant information about a person's medical conditions. This card would also be used to access health services and medicines.

Indian PM Narendra Modi: "Health ID for each Indian" | National Digital Health Scheme

On the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi is addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort. PM Modi hailed the capabilities of the middle class of the country and said that the middle class if given opportunities, come up with great results.

Indian PM Narendra Modi: Middle class an important part of our society | India News

On the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi is addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort. PM hailed the corona warriors and said that the nation will surely win the fight against the coronavirus.

Indian PM Narendra Modi address on India's 74th Independence Day: India will win the battle against COVID-19

Bangladesh envoy to India Muhammad Imran has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking "bilateral ties to higher level", adding at present the relation are in what can be termed as 'Golden Era' or "shonali adhyay".

Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Muhammad Imran highlighted the close ties between India and Bangaldesh's Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and how Indian and Bangaldeshi forces shed blood together for their war of liberation.&nbsp;

On August 15, 1975, he and his family was brutally assassinated by renegade members of the military.

Excerpts from the interview

WION: Today is the death anniversary of your father of the nation.

Muhammad Imran: Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is our father of the nation and he has inspired the whole country to struggle against all types of oppression. He was a leader who guided you towards independence. But unfortunately he was killed in 1975 on this day along with his family. We mourn his death and we pledge the ideals he showed will be carried forward. Especially his dream for Sonar Bangla. We will take it forward and new generation will implement it.

WION: How were the ties between Indian leadership and father of your nation?

Muhammad Imran: He was taken first to London when he was coming back from Pakistani captivity but he decided to stop over in Delhi to pay his respect, to show people of India how much we adore and recognise their support for our Independence. In February, Bangabandu came to Calcutta and Indira Gandhi went to Bangladesh in March 1972 and relations at that time -- it was high point. Now, PM Modi has take a good initiative to take relations to a higher level. The relations are currently going through a golden era.

Bangladesh envoy to India Muhammad Imran has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking "bilateral ties to higher level", adding at present the relation are in what can be termed as 'Golden Era' or "shonali adhyay".

Bangladesh envoy to India Muhammad Imran has said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking "bilateral ties to higher level", adding at present the relation are in what can be termed as 'Golden Era' or "shonali adhyay". Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Muhammad Imran highlighted the close ties between India and Bangaldesh's Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and how Indian and Bangaldeshi forces shed blood together for their war of liberation. On August 15, 1975, he and his family was brutally assassinated by renegade members of the military. Excerpts from the interview WION: Today is the death anniversary of your father of the nation. Muhammad Imran: Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is our father of the nation and he has inspired the whole country to struggle against all types of oppression. He was a leader who guided you towards independence. But unfortunately he was killed in 1975 on this day along with his family. We mourn his death and we pledge the ideals he showed will be carried forward. Especially his dream for Sonar Bangla. We will take it forward and new generation will implement it. WION: How were the ties between Indian leadership and father of your nation? Muhammad Imran: He was taken first to London when he was coming back from Pakistani captivity but he decided to stop over in Delhi to pay his respect, to show people of India how much we adore and recognise their support for our Independence. In February, Bangabandu came to Calcutta and Indira Gandhi went to Bangladesh in March 1972 and relations at that time -- it was high point. Now, PM Modi has take a good initiative to take relations to a higher level. The relations are currently going through a golden era.

PM Modi taking bilateral ties to higher level, says Bangladesh envoy to India

PM Narendra Modi dehyphenated India's relationship with Israel and Palestine, when he became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel in 2017. The UAE is now establishing diplomatic ties with Israel. How does it benefit India? Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Israel-UAE deal: Why the deal is good news for India

PM Modi is delivering his seventh consecutive Independence Day speech at the Red Fort. PM said that Aatma Nirbhar Bharat or self-reliant India has become a mantra for 130 crore Indians and it would become a reality.

Indian PM Narendra Modi speech at Red Fort: "Self-reliant India is in the minds and heart of every Indian"

India is celebrating its 74th Independence Day with pomp and show. However, the celebrations come mixed with caution due to the novel coronavirus. Fewer guests are invited at the Red Fort and the Security personnel on duty will have to go under a 14-day quarantine.

India's 74th Independence Day celebrations mixed with caution: Fewer guests at Red Fort

On the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi is addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort. PM Modi said that the nation should not forget the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters. Watch video to know more.

Indian PM Narendra Modi addresses the nation at Red Fort: Must remember sacrifices made by our freedom fighters

On the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi is addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort. PM hailed the corona warriors and also said that the youth played an important role in the freedom struggle of our country".

Indian PM Narendra Modi address on India's 74th Independence Day | "Youth played important role in freedom struggle"

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners.&nbsp;New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years. A peace deal between the three countries is good news for India. 
&nbsp; 
India may have had an indirect role to play.&nbsp;In 2014, while most of the world expressed their support for Palestine in the open and had under-the-table deals with Israel, India chose to walk a different path. It adopted a de-hyphenation policy between Israel and Palestine.

The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to balance its ties with Israel and Palestine and keep it independent of one another.

In 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. Just months before that he hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

India's message to the world was: you need not choose between Israel and Palestine,&nbsp;diplomatic ties can be maintained with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause.

It was India pitching itself as a responsible global leader interested in peace. New Delhi never shied from making its point loud and clear. In 2017, India voted against recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital.

At the same time&nbsp;it pulled up Palestine when its ambassador to Pakistan was photographed sharing the&nbsp;stage with Hafiz Saeed.

India has also balanced ties between Israel and the other Gulf nations.&nbsp;New Delhi has steered clear of taking sides in sectarian politics. India's policy of de-hyphenation, and its diplomacy in West Asia as a whole has been balanced and independent. It has allowed global validation of India's diplomacy and the peace deal benefits Indian diaspora in the region.

At least 7 million Indians work in West Asia,&nbsp;they will benefit from regional stability. Flight services between Israel and UAE is a boon. As the two countries work out bilateral trade, it may also open new avenues for India&nbsp;as both UAE and Israel are India's strategic partners.

Also, better diplomatic environment in the Arab world is always good news for New Delhi&nbsp;given that India is home to the world's second-largest Muslim population.

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners. New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years.

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners. New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years. A peace deal between the three countries is good news for India. India may have had an indirect role to play. In 2014, while most of the world expressed their support for Palestine in the open and had under-the-table deals with Israel, India chose to walk a different path. It adopted a de-hyphenation policy between Israel and Palestine. The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to balance its ties with Israel and Palestine and keep it independent of one another. In 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. Just months before that he hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. India's message to the world was: you need not choose between Israel and Palestine, diplomatic ties can be maintained with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause. It was India pitching itself as a responsible global leader interested in peace. New Delhi never shied from making its point loud and clear. In 2017, India voted against recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital. At the same time it pulled up Palestine when its ambassador to Pakistan was photographed sharing the stage with Hafiz Saeed. India has also balanced ties between Israel and the other Gulf nations. New Delhi has steered clear of taking sides in sectarian politics. India's policy of de-hyphenation, and its diplomacy in West Asia as a whole has been balanced and independent. It has allowed global validation of India's diplomacy and the peace deal benefits Indian diaspora in the region. At least 7 million Indians work in West Asia, they will benefit from regional stability. Flight services between Israel and UAE is a boon. As the two countries work out bilateral trade, it may also open new avenues for India as both UAE and Israel are India's strategic partners. Also, better diplomatic environment in the Arab world is always good news for New Delhi given that India is home to the world's second-largest Muslim population.

How India benefits from Israel-UAE peace deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the first ever undersea optical fibre cable project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands which will provide high speed broadband connections in the union territory at par with services in the mainland.

The prime minister&nbsp;laid the foundation for 2,312-kilometer Chennai - Andaman and Nicobar Islands (CANI) connecting submarine optical fibre cable project on December 30, 2018.

"This optical fibre cable project is a gift for the people of Andaman before the Independence Day. This is a symbol of our commitment towards ease of living. Be it online classes, tourism, banking, shopping, or telemedicine, thousands of families in Andaman and Nicobar will now get access," PM Modi said after inaugurating the project.

"From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Big day for Andaman and Nicobar Islands! Watch. <a href="https://t.co/lNwI6KSEOj">https://t.co/lNwI6KSEOj</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1292690839433437187?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The prime minister said that tourists will also reap huge benefits from this facility as better net connectivity is the first priority of any tourist destination. "The problem of mobile and Internet connectivity has now been resolved. Apart from this, physical connectivity through road, air, and water is also being strengthened."

The project is funded by the government of India through the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications.

The submarine OFC link will deliver a bandwidth of 2x200 Gigabits per second between Chennai and Port Blair, and 2x100 Gbps between Port Blair and other islands.

According to official data, internet with speed of 400 gigabyte (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands it will be 200 Gb per second.

Undersea cable linking Andaman Islands with Chennai was laid before time, Modi said while inaugurating the cable link. 
Work of laying undersea cable has been executed by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months.

This project will give a boost to 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, tele-health, e-governance services and tourism on the islands.

(with inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the first ever undersea optical fibre cable project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands which will provide high speed broadband connections in the union territory at par with services in the mainland.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the first ever undersea optical fibre cable project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands which will provide high speed broadband connections in the union territory at par with services in the mainland. The prime minister laid the foundation for 2,312-kilometer Chennai - Andaman and Nicobar Islands (CANI) connecting submarine optical fibre cable project on December 30, 2018. "This optical fibre cable project is a gift for the people of Andaman before the Independence Day. This is a symbol of our commitment towards ease of living. Be it online classes, tourism, banking, shopping, or telemedicine, thousands of families in Andaman and Nicobar will now get access," PM Modi said after inaugurating the project. "From Chennai to Port Blair, Port Blair to Little Andaman and Port Blair to Swaraj Dweep, this service has started in large part of Andaman Nicobar from today." Big day for Andaman and Nicobar Islands! Watch. https://t.co/lNwI6KSEOj — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 10, 2020 × The prime minister said that tourists will also reap huge benefits from this facility as better net connectivity is the first priority of any tourist destination. "The problem of mobile and Internet connectivity has now been resolved. Apart from this, physical connectivity through road, air, and water is also being strengthened." The project is funded by the government of India through the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) under the Department of Telecommunications, Ministry of Communications. The submarine OFC link will deliver a bandwidth of 2x200 Gigabits per second between Chennai and Port Blair, and 2x100 Gbps between Port Blair and other islands. According to official data, internet with speed of 400 gigabyte (Gb) per second will be provided at Port Blair and for other islands it will be 200 Gb per second. Undersea cable linking Andaman Islands with Chennai was laid before time, Modi said while inaugurating the cable link. Work of laying undersea cable has been executed by BSNL in a record time of less than 24 months. This project will give a boost to 4G mobile services and digital services like tele-education, tele-health, e-governance services and tourism on the islands. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Modi inaugurates first ever optical fibre cable project for Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (July 10) inaugurated the submarine Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) connecting Chennai and Port Blair, via video conferencing.

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates submarine optical fibre cable connecting Port Blair and Chennai

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a financing facility of Rs 1 lakh crore under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, on Sunday to mark the occasion of 'Balram jayanti', 'Hal Chhath' and 'Dau Janmotsav'.

In a series of tweets in Hindi, he extended greetings, especially to the farming community on the occasion.

Hal chhath is a festival dedicated to Balaram, the elder brother of Lord Krishna.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
सभी देशवासियों को, विशेष रूप से किसान भाई-बहनों को बलराम जयंती की, हलछठ, और दाऊ जन्मोत्सव की शुभकामनाएं। इस खास दिन पर सुबह 11 बजे वीडियो कॉन्फ्रेंसिंग के जरिए एग्रीकल्चर इन्फ्रास्ट्रक्चर फंड के तहत एक लाख करोड़ रुपये की वित्तपोषण सुविधा की शुरुआत करूंगा।<a href="https://t.co/3q3tPWk0a4">https://t.co/3q3tPWk0a4</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1292273910524698624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
इस कार्यक्रम में ‘पीएम-किसान योजना’ के अंतर्गत सहायता राशि की छठी किस्त भी जारी की जाएगी। 8.5 करोड़ किसानों के खातों में 17,000 करोड़ रुपये ट्रांसफर किए जाएंगे। कोविड-19 महामारी के दौरान यह योजना किसानों के लिए बहुत मददगार साबित हो रही है।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1292273914400317444?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On Sunday, Modi will also release the sixth instalment of funds of Rs 17,000 crore to 8.5 crore farmers under the PM-KISAN scheme.

The scheme has also been instrumental in supporting farmers during the COVID-19 pandemic, he noted.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a financing facility of Rs 1 lakh crore under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, on Sunday to mark the occasion of 'Balram jayanti', 'Hal Chhath' and 'Dau Janmotsav'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch a financing facility of Rs 1 lakh crore under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, on Sunday to mark the occasion of 'Balram jayanti', 'Hal Chhath' and 'Dau Janmotsav'. In a series of tweets in Hindi, he extended greetings, especially to the farming community on the occasion. Hal chhath is a festival dedicated to Balaram, the elder brother of Lord Krishna. सभी देशवासियों को, विशेष रूप से किसान भाई-बहनों को बलराम जयंती की, हलछठ, और दाऊ जन्मोत्सव की शुभकामनाएं। इस खास दिन पर सुबह 11 बजे वीडियो कॉन्फ्रेंसिंग के जरिए एग्रीकल्चर इन्फ्रास्ट्रक्चर फंड के तहत एक लाख करोड़ रुपये की वित्तपोषण सुविधा की शुरुआत करूंगा।https://t.co/3q3tPWk0a4 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 9, 2020 × इस कार्यक्रम में ‘पीएम-किसान योजना’ के अंतर्गत सहायता राशि की छठी किस्त भी जारी की जाएगी। 8.5 करोड़ किसानों के खातों में 17,000 करोड़ रुपये ट्रांसफर किए जाएंगे। कोविड-19 महामारी के दौरान यह योजना किसानों के लिए बहुत मददगार साबित हो रही है। — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 9, 2020 × On Sunday, Modi will also release the sixth instalment of funds of Rs 17,000 crore to 8.5 crore farmers under the PM-KISAN scheme. The scheme has also been instrumental in supporting farmers during the COVID-19 pandemic, he noted.

PM Modi to launch financing facility under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund

The Air India Express passenger plane crash came as a shared loss for both New Delhi and Abu Dhabi as the flight was repatriating Indians stranded by the COVID-19 pandemic in the UAE.&nbsp;

The Boeing-737 flight from Dubai to Calicut International Airport, carrying 190 passengers and crew, overshot the runway in heavy rain near the southern city of Kozhikode on Friday. Eighteen of the 190 passengers and crew, including both pilots, died, officials said on Saturday.

Kerala is also grappling with rising number of coronavirus cases, and flooding and landslides due to heavy rains.

To this end, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, tweeted to show solidarity with "friend" Prime Minister Narendra Modi in these trying times.

"We share our heartfelt condolences with our friend PM @narendramodi and all the people of India affected by the tragic plane accident, and the recent flooding. You remain in our prayers during these difficult times," he posted on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We share our heartfelt condolences with our friend PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and all the people of India affected by the tragic plane accident, and the recent flooding. You remain in our prayers during these difficult times.
— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedBinZayed/status/1292161051023118337?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It was India’s worst passenger aircraft accident since 2010, when another Air India Express flight from Dubai overshot the table-top runway at Mangalore, a city in the south, and slid down a hill, killing 158 people.

India's relations with the UAE are "at their best ever" as bilateral ties have been elevated from a mere "buyer-seller" to that of a comprehensive strategic partnership in the last four years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said last year as he highlighted the excellent rapport between the leadership of the two countries.

The two nations quite often indulge in exchanging workforce. Many Indians are happily settled in UAE and had been earning well until the coronavirus pandemic struck.

It was only after the lockdown started to wreak havoc on the economy that several firms in UAE dried up, and the Indian nationals had to be repatriated.

India had closed international travel on March 25 as part of the nationwide lockdown.&nbsp;

The Narendra Modi-led government then commenced the world’s largest repatriation operations from May 7, in a bid to help stranded people reach their destinations amid the pandemic.

The Air India Express passenger plane crash came as a shared loss for both New Delhi and Abu Dhabi as the flight was repatriating Indians stranded by the COVID-19 pandemic in the UAE.

The Air India Express passenger plane crash came as a shared loss for both New Delhi and Abu Dhabi as the flight was repatriating Indians stranded by the COVID-19 pandemic in the UAE. The Boeing-737 flight from Dubai to Calicut International Airport, carrying 190 passengers and crew, overshot the runway in heavy rain near the southern city of Kozhikode on Friday. Eighteen of the 190 passengers and crew, including both pilots, died, officials said on Saturday. Kerala is also grappling with rising number of coronavirus cases, and flooding and landslides due to heavy rains. To this end, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces, tweeted to show solidarity with "friend" Prime Minister Narendra Modi in these trying times. "We share our heartfelt condolences with our friend PM @narendramodi and all the people of India affected by the tragic plane accident, and the recent flooding. You remain in our prayers during these difficult times," he posted on Twitter. We share our heartfelt condolences with our friend PM @narendramodi and all the people of India affected by the tragic plane accident, and the recent flooding. You remain in our prayers during these difficult times. — محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) August 8, 2020 × It was India’s worst passenger aircraft accident since 2010, when another Air India Express flight from Dubai overshot the table-top runway at Mangalore, a city in the south, and slid down a hill, killing 158 people. India's relations with the UAE are "at their best ever" as bilateral ties have been elevated from a mere "buyer-seller" to that of a comprehensive strategic partnership in the last four years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said last year as he highlighted the excellent rapport between the leadership of the two countries. The two nations quite often indulge in exchanging workforce. Many Indians are happily settled in UAE and had been earning well until the coronavirus pandemic struck. It was only after the lockdown started to wreak havoc on the economy that several firms in UAE dried up, and the Indian nationals had to be repatriated. India had closed international travel on March 25 as part of the nationwide lockdown. The Narendra Modi-led government then commenced the world’s largest repatriation operations from May 7, in a bid to help stranded people reach their destinations amid the pandemic.

UAE's Mohamed bin Zayed sends condolences to 'friend' PM Modi after Air India plane crash

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the new National Education Policy focusses on 'how to think', while the education system till now in the country emphasised on 'what to think'.

He also said that there were no major changes in the country's education system over the years. As a result, instead of promoting values of curiosity and imagination, herd mentality was being encouraged.

The prime minister made these remarks while delivering the inaugural address at the 'Conclave on Transformational Reforms in Higher Education under National Education Policy' via video link.

Modi said it is a matter of happiness that after the introduction of the National Education Policy, no region or section has said that it has any kind of bias, or is leaning towards one side.

There is a lot of emphasis on teacher training in the National Education Policy, he pointed out.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the new National Education Policy focusses on 'how to think', while the education system till now in the country emphasised on 'what to think'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the new National Education Policy focusses on 'how to think', while the education system till now in the country emphasised on 'what to think'. He also said that there were no major changes in the country's education system over the years. As a result, instead of promoting values of curiosity and imagination, herd mentality was being encouraged. The prime minister made these remarks while delivering the inaugural address at the 'Conclave on Transformational Reforms in Higher Education under National Education Policy' via video link. Modi said it is a matter of happiness that after the introduction of the National Education Policy, no region or section has said that it has any kind of bias, or is leaning towards one side. There is a lot of emphasis on teacher training in the National Education Policy, he pointed out.

New Education Policy focusses on how to think: PM Modi

A blaze in the wee hours at a private hospital in Ahmedabad has left eight COVID-19 patients dead.

The victims include five men and three women, who were being treated at the ICU ward of the COVID-19 designated Shrey Hospital in Navrangpura area of Ahmedabad.

Fire broke out around 3.30 am on the fourth floor of the four-storey hospital.

To this end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted in support of the hospital. He said, "Saddened by the tragic hospital fire in Ahmedabad. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon. Spoke to CM&nbsp; 
@vijayrupanibjp Ji and Mayor @ibijalpatel Ji regarding the situation. Administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Saddened by the tragic hospital fire in Ahmedabad. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon. Spoke to CM <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayrupanibjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vijayrupanibjp</a> Ji and Mayor <a href="https://twitter.com/ibijalpatel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ibijalpatel</a> Ji regarding the situation. Administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1291206650930421760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Around 40 other COVID-19 patients at the facility were rescued and shifted to a civic hospital in the city.

Primary investigations revealed that the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit, police said.

Shrey Hospital is among the around 60 private hospitals designated as COVID-19 hospitals by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation.

Municipal Commissioner Mukesh Kumar, who reached the spot soon after the fire broke out, said an electric short circuit led to the blaze, which spread in the ICU ward within minutes.

Principal Health Secretary Jayanti Ravi also reached the spot and assured a thorough probe into the incident. 
Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has ordered an inquiry into the incident.

In a statement, the CMO saidthe probe will be conducted by two IAS officers, Additional Chief Secretary in Home Department Sangeeta Singh and ACS in Urban Development Department Mukesh Puri. They have been asked to submit a report in three days, the statement said.

With 1,073 new coronavirus positive cases, Gujarat's COVID-19 tally reached 66,777 on Wednesday. The number of deceased has gone up to 2,557, an official said.&nbsp;

A blaze in the wee hours at a private hospital in Ahmedabad has left eight COVID-19 patients dead. The victims include five men and three women, who were being treated at the ICU ward of the COVID-19 designated Shrey Hospital in Navrangpura area of Ahmedabad.

A blaze in the wee hours at a private hospital in Ahmedabad has left eight COVID-19 patients dead. The victims include five men and three women, who were being treated at the ICU ward of the COVID-19 designated Shrey Hospital in Navrangpura area of Ahmedabad. Fire broke out around 3.30 am on the fourth floor of the four-storey hospital. To this end, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted in support of the hospital. He said, "Saddened by the tragic hospital fire in Ahmedabad. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon. Spoke to CM @vijayrupanibjp Ji and Mayor @ibijalpatel Ji regarding the situation. Administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected." Saddened by the tragic hospital fire in Ahmedabad. Condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon. Spoke to CM @vijayrupanibjp Ji and Mayor @ibijalpatel Ji regarding the situation. Administration is providing all possible assistance to the affected. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 6, 2020 × Around 40 other COVID-19 patients at the facility were rescued and shifted to a civic hospital in the city. Primary investigations revealed that the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit, police said. Shrey Hospital is among the around 60 private hospitals designated as COVID-19 hospitals by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation. Municipal Commissioner Mukesh Kumar, who reached the spot soon after the fire broke out, said an electric short circuit led to the blaze, which spread in the ICU ward within minutes. Principal Health Secretary Jayanti Ravi also reached the spot and assured a thorough probe into the incident. Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has ordered an inquiry into the incident. In a statement, the CMO saidthe probe will be conducted by two IAS officers, Additional Chief Secretary in Home Department Sangeeta Singh and ACS in Urban Development Department Mukesh Puri. They have been asked to submit a report in three days, the statement said. With 1,073 new coronavirus positive cases, Gujarat's COVID-19 tally reached 66,777 on Wednesday. The number of deceased has gone up to 2,557, an official said.

Ahmedabad COVID-19 hospital fire leaves eight patients dead

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. 
&nbsp; 
He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his speech after laying the foundation stone, said: "Ram temple will become the modern symbol of our traditions. It'll become a symbol of our devotion, our national sentiment. This temple will also symbolise the power of collective resolution of crores of people."

Clad in a gold silk kurta and a dhoti -- Modi had to add a mask to his traditional attire. The venue and the surrounding areas were cordoned off to keep the crowd away and only invitees were allowed to enter the ritual arena.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ram-temple-in-ayodhya-pm-modi-lays-the-first-brick-318449/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 170 spiritual leaders were in attendance and scores of devotees watched on giant screens set-up across the city.

The idol was kept under a tent for more than three decades. It was moved to a make-shift temple earlier this year. The proposed ram temple will be double the size of the original plan.

It will be constructed in the Nagara style of architecture and, will stand over 160 feet in height.

For the foundation of the temple, 200,000 bricks inscribed with lord ram have been sent by devotees over the years.

Soil from 2,000 holy sites around India and water from 100 holy rivers will be used.

It will be a three-storey stone structure with multiple turrets, pillars and domes. The temple will have five domes instead of two to accommodate more devotees. 360 pillars will bear the weight of the domes. The project is expected to be completed in the next three years and, will cost at least 300 crore rupees.

Indians in the United States are in a celebratory mood. They went on a march chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' -- from the Capitol Hill to the White House. Temples in California, Washington, Texas and Florida have planned special rituals to mark the historic event.

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram.

August 5 will is a momentous day in India's history as Prime minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the grand Ram Temple. He placed a 40-kilo silver brick at the very spot, which Hindus believe to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his speech after laying the foundation stone, said: "Ram temple will become the modern symbol of our traditions. It'll become a symbol of our devotion, our national sentiment. This temple will also symbolise the power of collective resolution of crores of people." Clad in a gold silk kurta and a dhoti -- Modi had to add a mask to his traditional attire. The venue and the surrounding areas were cordoned off to keep the crowd away and only invitees were allowed to enter the ritual arena. At least 170 spiritual leaders were in attendance and scores of devotees watched on giant screens set-up across the city. The idol was kept under a tent for more than three decades. It was moved to a make-shift temple earlier this year. The proposed ram temple will be double the size of the original plan. It will be constructed in the Nagara style of architecture and, will stand over 160 feet in height. For the foundation of the temple, 200,000 bricks inscribed with lord ram have been sent by devotees over the years. Soil from 2,000 holy sites around India and water from 100 holy rivers will be used. It will be a three-storey stone structure with multiple turrets, pillars and domes. The temple will have five domes instead of two to accommodate more devotees. 360 pillars will bear the weight of the domes. The project is expected to be completed in the next three years and, will cost at least 300 crore rupees. Indians in the United States are in a celebratory mood. They went on a march chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' -- from the Capitol Hill to the White House. Temples in California, Washington, Texas and Florida have planned special rituals to mark the historic event.

Momentous day in Indian history as PM Modi lays foundation stone for Ram Temple

Prime Minister Narendra Modi July 27 launched coronavirus testing facilities in Noida, Mumbai, and Kolkata via video conferencing. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the high-throughput facilities will ramp up testing capacity in the country and help in strengthening quick detection and treatment of coronavirus which will help to combat the spread of the virus.

Three new COVID-19 testing facilities inaugurated in India

•China-Iran strategic partnership resulting in many deals adding to $400 billion alters strategic balance in Middle East (West Asia) in favor of China.

•India’s unhindered engagement with Iran can be a mitigating factor for India and US in reaching out to West Asia and CAR.

The news about China-Iran strategic partnership resulting in many deals adding to $400bn and consequential influence over Iran, has once again brought to focus, the strategic dilemma of India, which existed when it reduced import of oil from Iran to avoid sanctions due to Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, (CAATSA) from US. The geopolitical and strategic situation from that time has changed significantly but it remains a question, whether the cons of the decision have overplayed the pros or otherwise and where does India go from here in engaging Iran to pursue its strategic and economic interest?&nbsp;

JCPoA and Aftermath &nbsp;

India enjoyed excellent relations with US as well as Iran when Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) of 2015 (commonly known as the Iran Nuclear Deal) in place, It was known that Republicans were against the Iran deal; hence in 2018, President Trump decided to unilaterally withdraw from that deal, despite opposition from European allies, without an alternate arrangement in place.&nbsp;

India was not part of the deal, but the sanctions re-imposed by US on Iran impacted its commercial dealings with Iran adversely. Iran was the third largest supplier of crude oil, and the only country supplying it in convenient rupee terms. The crude oil from Iran could be refined in India, thus lowering the cost, because buying shale oil in processed form from US in dollar terms was a costly alternative, in absence of refineries for shale oil in India. Besides old cultural and historical ties with India, Iran was crucial for Indian connectivity to CAR, through Chahbahar port and International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) through Afghanistan, which is also the shortest route for CAR countries to warm water. India made significant investments in Chahbahar and related connectivity and other projects.&nbsp;

Compulsion for Avoiding CAATSA 
&nbsp; 
While India is a sovereign country and makes its own strategic choices but going against US or Israel at that point of time had many disadvantages against the advantages mentioned above. The biggest threat to India comes from China and Iran has never been in a situation to help India against China. Given the emerging strategic scenario and closeness of China and Russia, going against US did not make strategic sense, because US was and continues to be in a position to provide intelligence, technology, military hardware, maritime support and oil (costly though). Israel is needed to diversify import of military hardware, which was overly dependent on Russia. Considering the fact that Chinese aggressiveness has been increasing with increase of its CNP, and will remain so in future, siding US had more advantages. India has alternative to Iran oil, but no worthwhile alternative to strategic partnership with superpower to mitigate Chinese threat.

Competing National Interests&nbsp;

Indian diplomacy tried to do some strategic balancing and Indian dilemma was understood by US as well as Iran, to the extent that Chahbahar was kept out of the preview of CAATSA and some waivers were given for oil imports. Both countries are bound by their own national interest; hence Iran when pushed to a corner by sanctions looking at China and US not giving waivers beyond a point, need to be seen in that perspective.&nbsp;

With adverse relations with US, China-Iran strategic partnership resulting in many deals adding to $400bn was a predictable outcome. With Iran being part of BRI, there is no doubt that Iran will be in the strategic orbit of China. China-Iran deal will certainly alter the strategic balance in West Asia (Middle East) and more so open another front for US-China competition in Persian Gulf. It will also help China in ensuring part of its energy security.

The Iranian authorities, however, continue to maintain that its relations with India are normal and these deals will not be impact it. India is not out of Chahbahar and despite certain contractual delays and COVID-19 impact, it would like to work with India. With declining Indian rupee reserves of Tehran and declining demand of oil by India, Iran struggles to import necessaries like medicines and foodstuff from India. Iran is also aware of exploitative policies of China; hence is keen to maintain good relations with India, because of its potential influence and better acceptability in global arena. Surprisingly I find Iranian leaders and press much less critical of India, than Indian critiques in India.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Can India Recover some Missed Opportunities?

India needs some smart diplomacy to make US realize that Indian engagement with Iran is a strategic necessity for both in the current scenario. Better Indo-Iran relations serve US interests better, besides Afghanistan and US initiative of US+5 in context of CAR countries. With decreasing presence of US in West Asia, the Indian footprints in Iran and Afghanistan and connectivity to CAR is important to both to ensure that the entire strategic space is not lost to China, because US will find it difficult to regain it later. Various terror groups are increasingly getting stronger in West Asia, which are inimical to US including IS, al Qaeda and Taliban; hence assuming that entry into this region is no longer required by US, may be a strategic error, giving China an edge towards its dream of global leadership.&nbsp;

India therefore needs to work out a methodology to fulfill its commitment to Iran, continue with Chahbahar and INSTC, and provide an opportunity to Iran to balance relationship between China and India, which may ultimately create a window for US return in the region, should a strategic situation demand so. Despite adversarial relations with US and Israel and being part of BRI, Iran has constructively worked with India in past; hence it may well be possible in future. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

•China-Iran strategic partnership resulting in many deals adding to $400 billion alters strategic balance in Middle East (West Asia) in favor of China. •India’s unhindered engagement with Iran can be a mitigating factor for India and US in reaching out to West Asia and CAR.

•China-Iran strategic partnership resulting in many deals adding to $400 billion alters strategic balance in Middle East (West Asia) in favor of China. •India’s unhindered engagement with Iran can be a mitigating factor for India and US in reaching out to West Asia and CAR. The news about China-Iran strategic partnership resulting in many deals adding to $400bn and consequential influence over Iran, has once again brought to focus, the strategic dilemma of India, which existed when it reduced import of oil from Iran to avoid sanctions due to Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, (CAATSA) from US. The geopolitical and strategic situation from that time has changed significantly but it remains a question, whether the cons of the decision have overplayed the pros or otherwise and where does India go from here in engaging Iran to pursue its strategic and economic interest? JCPoA and Aftermath India enjoyed excellent relations with US as well as Iran when Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA) of 2015 (commonly known as the Iran Nuclear Deal) in place, It was known that Republicans were against the Iran deal; hence in 2018, President Trump decided to unilaterally withdraw from that deal, despite opposition from European allies, without an alternate arrangement in place. India was not part of the deal, but the sanctions re-imposed by US on Iran impacted its commercial dealings with Iran adversely. Iran was the third largest supplier of crude oil, and the only country supplying it in convenient rupee terms. The crude oil from Iran could be refined in India, thus lowering the cost, because buying shale oil in processed form from US in dollar terms was a costly alternative, in absence of refineries for shale oil in India. Besides old cultural and historical ties with India, Iran was crucial for Indian connectivity to CAR, through Chahbahar port and International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC) through Afghanistan, which is also the shortest route for CAR countries to warm water. India made significant investments in Chahbahar and related connectivity and other projects. Compulsion for Avoiding CAATSA While India is a sovereign country and makes its own strategic choices but going against US or Israel at that point of time had many disadvantages against the advantages mentioned above. The biggest threat to India comes from China and Iran has never been in a situation to help India against China. Given the emerging strategic scenario and closeness of China and Russia, going against US did not make strategic sense, because US was and continues to be in a position to provide intelligence, technology, military hardware, maritime support and oil (costly though). Israel is needed to diversify import of military hardware, which was overly dependent on Russia. Considering the fact that Chinese aggressiveness has been increasing with increase of its CNP, and will remain so in future, siding US had more advantages. India has alternative to Iran oil, but no worthwhile alternative to strategic partnership with superpower to mitigate Chinese threat. Competing National Interests Indian diplomacy tried to do some strategic balancing and Indian dilemma was understood by US as well as Iran, to the extent that Chahbahar was kept out of the preview of CAATSA and some waivers were given for oil imports. Both countries are bound by their own national interest; hence Iran when pushed to a corner by sanctions looking at China and US not giving waivers beyond a point, need to be seen in that perspective. With adverse relations with US, China-Iran strategic partnership resulting in many deals adding to $400bn was a predictable outcome. With Iran being part of BRI, there is no doubt that Iran will be in the strategic orbit of China. China-Iran deal will certainly alter the strategic balance in West Asia (Middle East) and more so open another front for US-China competition in Persian Gulf. It will also help China in ensuring part of its energy security. The Iranian authorities, however, continue to maintain that its relations with India are normal and these deals will not be impact it. India is not out of Chahbahar and despite certain contractual delays and COVID-19 impact, it would like to work with India. With declining Indian rupee reserves of Tehran and declining demand of oil by India, Iran struggles to import necessaries like medicines and foodstuff from India. Iran is also aware of exploitative policies of China; hence is keen to maintain good relations with India, because of its potential influence and better acceptability in global arena. Surprisingly I find Iranian leaders and press much less critical of India, than Indian critiques in India. Can India Recover some Missed Opportunities? India needs some smart diplomacy to make US realize that Indian engagement with Iran is a strategic necessity for both in the current scenario. Better Indo-Iran relations serve US interests better, besides Afghanistan and US initiative of US+5 in context of CAR countries. With decreasing presence of US in West Asia, the Indian footprints in Iran and Afghanistan and connectivity to CAR is important to both to ensure that the entire strategic space is not lost to China, because US will find it difficult to regain it later. Various terror groups are increasingly getting stronger in West Asia, which are inimical to US including IS, al Qaeda and Taliban; hence assuming that entry into this region is no longer required by US, may be a strategic error, giving China an edge towards its dream of global leadership. India therefore needs to work out a methodology to fulfill its commitment to Iran, continue with Chahbahar and INSTC, and provide an opportunity to Iran to balance relationship between China and India, which may ultimately create a window for US return in the region, should a strategic situation demand so. Despite adversarial relations with US and Israel and being part of BRI, Iran has constructively worked with India in past; hence it may well be possible in future. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Indo-Iran engagements: Did India pick up right choices?

Highlighting the initiatives taken by the government towards the path of development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the country has not forgotten its "responsibility" towards this planet. "While marching forward on the path of development, we are not forgetting our responsibility towards our planet," PM Modi said in a virtual address to the High-Level Segment of UN's Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

Watch: Indian PM Modi's address at UN's Economic and Social Council

An Iranian official has claimed that India was never part of the Chabahar-Zahedan railway line project. India said today that an MoU was signed in 2016, and Iran is yet to take things forward. Will Iran dump Indian projects for Chinese cash? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: Is China driving India out of Iran?

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West".&nbsp;Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one&nbsp;but&nbsp;Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace.

The United States of America made it happen. It slapped crippling sanctions on Iran and bullied allies to keep distance from Tehran and&nbsp;India was one of the countries that complied.

Last year, when the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a visit to India, he had a clear message on Iran while sitting right next to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Pompeo said: "We also know that Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, and we know the Indian people, how they have suffered from terror around the world."

That statement was a sign of things to come.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-us-policy-soured-india-iran-ties-313865/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Donald Trump's&nbsp;administration is on a collision course with Iran. Trump walked out of the nuclear deal, slapped sanctions on Tehran and swept allies into confrontation, whether they liked it or not.

India was one of them,&nbsp;it chose to side with the US and stopped buying oil from Iran,&nbsp;and put its investment in the Chabahar project in cold storage. India chose to comply with American sanctions.

Close ties with America is a priority for the Modi government. Prime Minister Modi has invested personal political capital in the&nbsp;relationship. First with the 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston — an event that was attended by 50,000 people. Trump used the opportunity to attract more Indian-Americans to his corner.

A few months later, the US President repeated this pitch in Ahmedabad. He received a king's welcome in Modi's home state. Trump was greeted by locals in a 22-kilometer roadshow and thrown a grand reception at the world's largest cricket stadium.

However, New Delhi's list of complaints with Washington is growing. The biggest pinch that India has felt after siding with the US is on its oil bills. India is the world's third-biggest oil consumer. India imports almost 80 per cent of its oil requirements&nbsp;and Iran was the third-largest supplier&nbsp;mainly because of the easy transaction terms.

Iran reportedly used to offer India a longer credit period of 60 days and the cargo insurance was free but&nbsp;American sanctions have forced India to buy from other West Asian nations.&nbsp;Other bilateral issues with the US have also been hurting India. The US terminated the preferential trade status for India — a move that led to duties on exports of nearly two thousand Indian products.

Trump’s tone and tenor hasn’t helped the relationship. In April, the US&nbsp;President had warned of retaliation over the curbs on exports of hydroxychloroquine.

Trump’s tough stand has driven Tehran towards Beijing. China and Iran are on the cusp of signing a $400 billion strategic partnership.

America gets its way and&nbsp;China gets a new partner&nbsp;but&nbsp;India has lost a strategic ally and an oil supplier. Delhi's policy of strategic autonomy is yet to show in the case of Iran.

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West". Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one but Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace.

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West". Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one but Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace. The United States of America made it happen. It slapped crippling sanctions on Iran and bullied allies to keep distance from Tehran and India was one of the countries that complied. Last year, when the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a visit to India, he had a clear message on Iran while sitting right next to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Pompeo said: "We also know that Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, and we know the Indian people, how they have suffered from terror around the world." That statement was a sign of things to come. Donald Trump's administration is on a collision course with Iran. Trump walked out of the nuclear deal, slapped sanctions on Tehran and swept allies into confrontation, whether they liked it or not. India was one of them, it chose to side with the US and stopped buying oil from Iran, and put its investment in the Chabahar project in cold storage. India chose to comply with American sanctions. Close ties with America is a priority for the Modi government. Prime Minister Modi has invested personal political capital in the relationship. First with the 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston — an event that was attended by 50,000 people. Trump used the opportunity to attract more Indian-Americans to his corner. A few months later, the US President repeated this pitch in Ahmedabad. He received a king's welcome in Modi's home state. Trump was greeted by locals in a 22-kilometer roadshow and thrown a grand reception at the world's largest cricket stadium. However, New Delhi's list of complaints with Washington is growing. The biggest pinch that India has felt after siding with the US is on its oil bills. India is the world's third-biggest oil consumer. India imports almost 80 per cent of its oil requirements and Iran was the third-largest supplier mainly because of the easy transaction terms. Iran reportedly used to offer India a longer credit period of 60 days and the cargo insurance was free but American sanctions have forced India to buy from other West Asian nations. Other bilateral issues with the US have also been hurting India. The US terminated the preferential trade status for India — a move that led to duties on exports of nearly two thousand Indian products. Trump’s tone and tenor hasn’t helped the relationship. In April, the US President had warned of retaliation over the curbs on exports of hydroxychloroquine. Trump’s tough stand has driven Tehran towards Beijing. China and Iran are on the cusp of signing a $400 billion strategic partnership. America gets its way and China gets a new partner but India has lost a strategic ally and an oil supplier. Delhi's policy of strategic autonomy is yet to show in the case of Iran.

India suffers as Trump's tough line allows Iran to embrace China

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a virtual keynote address at the valedictory session along with the PM of Norway Erna Solberg and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

PM Modi's keynote address at the UN ECOSOC segment

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated a 750-MW solar project at Rewa in Madhya Pradesh through video-conferencing from New Delhi. It's said to be Asia's biggest solar power project.

Union Power Minister RK Singh and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan were among the dignitaries present on the occasion.

The Rs 4,000-crore project has three units of 250 MW each at a solar park spread over 1,500 hectares developed by Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Limited (RUMSL), a joint venture company of Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited and Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), a central PSU.

PM Modi also addressed the nation through video-conferencing, and said that the solar power project would give a new identity to Rewa. He said the solar power produced by the project will be "pure, sure and secure".

The project is a step towards India's commitment to set up 175GW solar power capacity by 2022. Twenty-four per cent of the solar power produced by the project will be used in the Delhi Metro and the remaining 76 per cent by discoms of Madhya Pradesh.

The Centre gave Rs 138 crore to RUMSL for the project for which Mahindra Renewables, ACME Solar Holdings, and Solengeri Power were shortlisted through reverse bidding for the three units at tariffs of Rs 2.979, Rs 2.970 and Rs 2.974 for the first year.

(with inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated a 750-MW solar project at Rewa in Madhya Pradesh through video-conferencing from New Delhi. It's said to be Asia's biggest solar power project.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated a 750-MW solar project at Rewa in Madhya Pradesh through video-conferencing from New Delhi. It's said to be Asia's biggest solar power project. Union Power Minister RK Singh and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan were among the dignitaries present on the occasion. The Rs 4,000-crore project has three units of 250 MW each at a solar park spread over 1,500 hectares developed by Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Limited (RUMSL), a joint venture company of Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited and Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), a central PSU. PM Modi also addressed the nation through video-conferencing, and said that the solar power project would give a new identity to Rewa. He said the solar power produced by the project will be "pure, sure and secure". The project is a step towards India's commitment to set up 175GW solar power capacity by 2022. Twenty-four per cent of the solar power produced by the project will be used in the Delhi Metro and the remaining 76 per cent by discoms of Madhya Pradesh. The Centre gave Rs 138 crore to RUMSL for the project for which Mahindra Renewables, ACME Solar Holdings, and Solengeri Power were shortlisted through reverse bidding for the three units at tariffs of Rs 2.979, Rs 2.970 and Rs 2.974 for the first year. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Modi inaugurates 750-MW solar power project in Madhya Pradesh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said Indian economy has started seeing "green shoots" of recovery, and that it would play a leading role in global recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

He added India remains one of the most open economies in the world.

PM Modi was addressing the India Global Week 2020 --&nbsp;one of the biggest international events on India's globalisation. He also invited the world industry to invest in India.

PM Modi said that in these times when the world is battling the COVID-19 pandemic, it is natural to talk about revival and there is faith that the story of global revival will have India playing a leading role.

"Indians have the spirit to achieve what is believed to be impossible. No wonder that in India, we are already seeing green shoots when it comes to economic recovery," Modi said while addressing the India Global Week 2020.

“In these times, it is natural to talk about revival. It is equally natural to link global revival and India. There is faith that the story of global revival will have India playing a leading role," he said.

"We are laying the red carpet for all global companies to come and establish their presence in India. Very few countries will offer the kind of opportunities India does today."

The prime minister said Indians have been natural reformers, and that historically, the country has managed to overcome every challenge -- be it social or economic.

“On one hand, India is fighting a strong battle against the global pandemic. With an increased focus on people's health, we are equally focussed on the health of the economy,” he said, adding, "when India talks of revival, it's revival with care, with compassion, which is sustainable both for environment and economy. Indians have the spirit to achieve what is believed to be impossible. No wonder that in India, we are already seeing green-shoots of economic recovery."

Modi also said that there are many possibilities and opportunities in various sunrise sectors in India.

"Our reforms in agriculture provide a very attractive investment opportunity to invest in storage and logistics," Modi said.

During the last six years, India has made great gains in areas such as financial inclusion, housing and infra construction, ease of doing business and bold tax reforms like the GST, he said.

"India is ready to do whatever it can to further global good and prosperity. This is an India that is reforming, performing and transforming," he said.

The prime minister also spoke of his government's coronavirus relief package comprising free ration, cooking gas and cash to poor.

"In this time of a pandemic we have provided relief to our citizens and undertaken big structural reforms," he said.

"Our relief package has been smart and targeted to provide the most poor with the most help. Thanks to technology every penny has reached the beneficiaries directly."

The relief package was named Aatmanirbhar Bharat or self-reliant India. "Aatmanirbhar Bharat is not about being self-contained or being closed to the world. It is about being self-sustaining and self-generating," he said.

And when the lockdown restrictions were eased, the government launched one of the world's largest public works programmes to provide employment to millions of workers. "This will not only re-energise the rural economy but also help in the creation of a durable infrastructure in rural areas," he said.

The pandemic has once again shown that India's pharma industry is an asset not just for India but for the entire world, he said adding it has played a leading role in reducing the cost of medicines, especially for developing countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said Indian economy has started seeing "green shoots" of recovery, and that it would play a leading role in global recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said Indian economy has started seeing "green shoots" of recovery, and that it would play a leading role in global recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. He added India remains one of the most open economies in the world. PM Modi was addressing the India Global Week 2020 -- one of the biggest international events on India's globalisation. He also invited the world industry to invest in India. PM Modi said that in these times when the world is battling the COVID-19 pandemic, it is natural to talk about revival and there is faith that the story of global revival will have India playing a leading role. "Indians have the spirit to achieve what is believed to be impossible. No wonder that in India, we are already seeing green shoots when it comes to economic recovery," Modi said while addressing the India Global Week 2020. “In these times, it is natural to talk about revival. It is equally natural to link global revival and India. There is faith that the story of global revival will have India playing a leading role," he said. "We are laying the red carpet for all global companies to come and establish their presence in India. Very few countries will offer the kind of opportunities India does today." The prime minister said Indians have been natural reformers, and that historically, the country has managed to overcome every challenge -- be it social or economic. “On one hand, India is fighting a strong battle against the global pandemic. With an increased focus on people's health, we are equally focussed on the health of the economy,” he said, adding, "when India talks of revival, it's revival with care, with compassion, which is sustainable both for environment and economy. Indians have the spirit to achieve what is believed to be impossible. No wonder that in India, we are already seeing green-shoots of economic recovery." Modi also said that there are many possibilities and opportunities in various sunrise sectors in India. "Our reforms in agriculture provide a very attractive investment opportunity to invest in storage and logistics," Modi said. During the last six years, India has made great gains in areas such as financial inclusion, housing and infra construction, ease of doing business and bold tax reforms like the GST, he said. "India is ready to do whatever it can to further global good and prosperity. This is an India that is reforming, performing and transforming," he said. The prime minister also spoke of his government's coronavirus relief package comprising free ration, cooking gas and cash to poor. "In this time of a pandemic we have provided relief to our citizens and undertaken big structural reforms," he said. "Our relief package has been smart and targeted to provide the most poor with the most help. Thanks to technology every penny has reached the beneficiaries directly." The relief package was named Aatmanirbhar Bharat or self-reliant India. "Aatmanirbhar Bharat is not about being self-contained or being closed to the world. It is about being self-sustaining and self-generating," he said. And when the lockdown restrictions were eased, the government launched one of the world's largest public works programmes to provide employment to millions of workers. "This will not only re-energise the rural economy but also help in the creation of a durable infrastructure in rural areas," he said. The pandemic has once again shown that India's pharma industry is an asset not just for India but for the entire world, he said adding it has played a leading role in reducing the cost of medicines, especially for developing countries.

India will play leading role in global revival, already seeing green shoots of economic recovery: PM Modi

In Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a strong message against China's 'expansionism'. With his visit, the Prime Minister has signaled that he is willing to take a more hands on approach to tackle the China challenge. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how PM Modi has made the fight against China a personal one.

Gravitas: Modi in Ladakh | Prime Minister makes clash a personal battle

It's unusual for Indian leaders to visit a military front. But Prime Minister Modi's visit to an Indian military base in Ladakh amid a standoff with China was a risk worth taking. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why leaders around the world undertake such top-secret visits.

Gravitas: Modi's visit to Ladakh | Why do leaders visit war zones

modi

Modi, News on Modi, stories on Modi, articles on Modi, Modi stories at Wion, Modi news, Modi latest news