Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his announcement about India's successful demonstration of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-important-message-to-nation-modi-says-india-shot-down-low-earth-orbit-satellite-with-anti-satellite-missile-pm-modi-205973">anti-satellite missile capability</a>, saying it was "yet another limitless drama" to "reap political benefits" ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Terming it a gross violation of the model code of conduct, Banerjee said there was "no great urgency" of announcing the mission by a government "past its expiry date" and asserted that it seems to be the "desperate oxygen to save the imminent sinking of the BJP boat".

She said she will lodge a complaint with the Election Commission.

"India's Mission Programme is world-class for many many years. We are always proud of our scientists, @DRDO_India, other research &amp; space organisations," she said adding research, space management and development are a continuous process over the years and "Modi, as usual likes to take the credit for everything".

She said, "credit to those who really deserve it, our scientists &amp; researchers."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers.

"Today's announcement is yet another limitless drama and publicity mongering by Modi desperately trying to reap political benefits at the time of the election. This is a gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

"There is no great urgency in conducting and announcing the mission now by a government past its expiry date. It seems desperate oxygen to save the imminent sinking of the BJP boat. We are lodging a complaint with the Election Commission," the West Bengal chief minister said in a series of tweets.

Senior TMC leader and West Bengal minister Firhad Hakim said that Narendra Modi should stop taking credit for the achievement or job done by others.

"Shooting down a satellite is the credit of our scientists. The Modi government in the last five years has failed to provide any relief to the people of the country," senior the TMC leader.

"So ahead of the elections, the BJP and Modi should stop these tricks to fool the masses. It won't have any impact on the poll prospects of the BJP in the upcoming elections," Hakim said.

Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and the entire scientific community for achieving yet another milestone by successfully testing ASAT technology.

"Congratulations once again to DRDO &amp; entire scientific community in achieving yet another milestone by successfully testing ASAT technology," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his announcement about India's successful demonstration of anti-satellite missile capability, saying it was "yet another limitless drama" to "reap political benefits" ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee Wednesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his announcement about India's successful demonstration of anti-satellite missile capability, saying it was "yet another limitless drama" to "reap political benefits" ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. Terming it a gross violation of the model code of conduct, Banerjee said there was "no great urgency" of announcing the mission by a government "past its expiry date" and asserted that it seems to be the "desperate oxygen to save the imminent sinking of the BJP boat". She said she will lodge a complaint with the Election Commission. "India's Mission Programme is world-class for many many years. We are always proud of our scientists, @DRDO_India, other research & space organisations," she said adding research, space management and development are a continuous process over the years and "Modi, as usual likes to take the credit for everything". She said, "credit to those who really deserve it, our scientists & researchers." Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers. "Today's announcement is yet another limitless drama and publicity mongering by Modi desperately trying to reap political benefits at the time of the election. This is a gross violation of the Model Code of Conduct. "There is no great urgency in conducting and announcing the mission now by a government past its expiry date. It seems desperate oxygen to save the imminent sinking of the BJP boat. We are lodging a complaint with the Election Commission," the West Bengal chief minister said in a series of tweets. Senior TMC leader and West Bengal minister Firhad Hakim said that Narendra Modi should stop taking credit for the achievement or job done by others. "Shooting down a satellite is the credit of our scientists. The Modi government in the last five years has failed to provide any relief to the people of the country," senior the TMC leader. "So ahead of the elections, the BJP and Modi should stop these tricks to fool the masses. It won't have any impact on the poll prospects of the BJP in the upcoming elections," Hakim said. Meanwhile, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and the entire scientific community for achieving yet another milestone by successfully testing ASAT technology. "Congratulations once again to DRDO & entire scientific community in achieving yet another milestone by successfully testing ASAT technology," he tweeted.

Limitless drama to reap political benefits: Mamata Banerjee on Mission Shakti

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Wednesday that India had shot down a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-low-earth-orbit-satellite-against-which-india-launched-a-surgical-strike-in-space-205974">low earth orbit satellite</a> with an A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile.&nbsp;

With that, Modi added, India had become an "elite space power".&nbsp;

Only three countries — America, Russia and China — the prime minister said, have this capability. India is the fourth to join the club.&nbsp;

The operation had been called "Mission Shakti", and consisted of the A-Sat missile shooting down a live satellite in low earth orbit.&nbsp;

The entire operation, Modi said, had taken three minutes.&nbsp;

Modi added that India's A-Sat missile was not meant to be used for offence, but for defence.&nbsp;

Modi said he wanted to clarify to the world's powers that this new technology was not meant to be used against any country, but that it was for India's defence.&nbsp;

He added India is against a space race, and that "we still follow this policy".&nbsp;

"We did not violate any international treaty," he added.&nbsp;

"We want to use our technology for the safety and betterment of our 130 crore people," he said. "We need a strong India".&nbsp;

Modi added that India's new anti-satellite missile will help the country "emerge as a safe, progressive and strong country".&nbsp;And that "we should be ready to counter all threats in the future".&nbsp;

Modi had said earlier on Wednesday that he had an "important message" to give to the country.&nbsp;

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An important message to the nation. Watch. <a href="https://t.co/0LEOATgOOQ">https://t.co/0LEOATgOOQ</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1110797218703761408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MissionShakti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MissionShakti</a> is special for 2 reasons: 
(1) India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised &amp; modern capability. 
(2) Entire effort is indigenous. 
India stands tall as a space power! 
It will make India stronger, even more secure and will further peace and harmony.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1110801488559759360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"#MissionShakti is special for 2 reasons," Modi tweeted after making his announcement.&nbsp;

"India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised &amp; modern capability" and "entire effort is indigenous" he elaborated.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Wednesday that India had shot down a low earth orbit satellite with an A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile. With that, Modi added, India had become an "elite space power".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Wednesday that India had shot down a low earth orbit satellite with an A-Sat (anti-satellite) missile. With that, Modi added, India had become an "elite space power". Only three countries — America, Russia and China — the prime minister said, have this capability. India is the fourth to join the club. The operation had been called "Mission Shakti", and consisted of the A-Sat missile shooting down a live satellite in low earth orbit. The entire operation, Modi said, had taken three minutes. Modi added that India's A-Sat missile was not meant to be used for offence, but for defence. Modi said he wanted to clarify to the world's powers that this new technology was not meant to be used against any country, but that it was for India's defence. He added India is against a space race, and that "we still follow this policy". "We did not violate any international treaty," he added. "We want to use our technology for the safety and betterment of our 130 crore people," he said. "We need a strong India". Modi added that India's new anti-satellite missile will help the country "emerge as a safe, progressive and strong country". And that "we should be ready to counter all threats in the future". Modi had said earlier on Wednesday that he had an "important message" to give to the country. An important message to the nation. Watch. https://t.co/0LEOATgOOQ — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 27, 2019 × #MissionShakti is special for 2 reasons: (1) India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised & modern capability. (2) Entire effort is indigenous. India stands tall as a space power! It will make India stronger, even more secure and will further peace and harmony. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 27, 2019 × "#MissionShakti is special for 2 reasons," Modi tweeted after making his announcement. "India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised & modern capability" and "entire effort is indigenous" he elaborated.

In 'important message' to nation, Modi says India shot down satellite in space

The original deal to procure 126 fighter jet could not go through during the UPA rule despite reaching the final stage as the then Defence Minister A K Antony felt there was something wrong in the process and asked for a review, defence ministry sources claimed.

The sources talked about Antony's intervention while asserting that there was no deal arrived at during the UPA regime to procure 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA).

The Congress has been ramping up attack on the government over the Rafale issue, claiming that the deal negotiated under its rule was much cheaper then the contract signed by the Modi government to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France at a cost of Rs 58,000 crore.

The sources said Antony's apprehensions may have been genuine and he may have had bonafide reasons for such an intervention. The price negotiating committee was at that time examining the deal after initially getting approval for it from the then defence minister.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-cabinet-approves-purchase-of-36-rafale-fighter-jets-source-6629">&nbsp;Indian cabinet approves purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets: Source</a>

The sources also said that the Eurofighter Typhoon had offered to bring down their prices by 25 per cent after Rafale was declared L1 vendor.

"Such a proposal after declaring the winning bidder was not at all acceptable as per laid down procedure. You cannot do that," said a source.

Alleging a "scam", the opposition Congress has been asking the government whether the per aircraft price of Rafale, according to international bids opened on December 12, 2012, comes to USD 80.95 million (Rs 526.1 crore) as against the Modi government's per aircraft negotiated price of USD 241.66 Million (Rs 1,570.8 crore) as per current exchange rates.

The UPA government floated a tender in 2007 for purchase of 126 MMRCA for the Air Force and, post negotiations, two of them--Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon -- remained in the reckoning.

However, the deal could not be finalised by the UPA regime.

Asked why NDA government did not go for Eurofighter Typhoon as it had offered a 25 per cent price cut, the sources said several European countries were involved in manufacturing of Eurofighter and France was preferred for the inter- governmental deal.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-attacks-jaitley-sitaraman-with-facts-over-rafale-deal-32340">Congress president</a>, on Friday, called out Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Twitter and said: "You said the UPA never released prices of Defence purchases? To nail your lie, here are 3 Parliamentary replies by the UPA with full transparency on pricing. Now do ask our Raksha Mantri to tell India how much each RAFALE jet cost."&nbsp;

With that, he attached screenshots of documents - one dated 9 August 2010 titled "Aircraft Carrier Admiral Gorshkov" and another 4 March 2013 titled "Upgradation of Aircraft" - by the Ministry of Defence.&nbsp;

The sources said the rates cannot be compared as price depended on the weapons package.

In a detailed statement, the defence ministry had on Wednesday termed as "unfounded" allegations made by the Congress about the Rs 58,000-crore deal, asserting that the demand to disclose details such as its value was "unrealistic" as doing so might compromise India's national security.

It had said giving an item-wise cost and other information would reveal details about weapons systems and customisation of the jet.

The ministry had said that in 2012, the then defence&nbsp;minister exercised an unprecedented personal veto on the laid down institutional process then underway for the procurement of 126 jets.

The sources talked about Antony's intervention while asserting that there was no deal arrived at during the UPA regime to procure 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA)

The original deal to procure 126 fighter jet could not go through during the UPA rule despite reaching the final stage as the then Defence Minister A K Antony felt there was something wrong in the process and asked for a review, defence ministry sources claimed. The sources talked about Antony's intervention while asserting that there was no deal arrived at during the UPA regime to procure 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA). The Congress has been ramping up attack on the government over the Rafale issue, claiming that the deal negotiated under its rule was much cheaper then the contract signed by the Modi government to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France at a cost of Rs 58,000 crore. The sources said Antony's apprehensions may have been genuine and he may have had bonafide reasons for such an intervention. The price negotiating committee was at that time examining the deal after initially getting approval for it from the then defence minister. Also read: Indian cabinet approves purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets: Source The sources also said that the Eurofighter Typhoon had offered to bring down their prices by 25 per cent after Rafale was declared L1 vendor. "Such a proposal after declaring the winning bidder was not at all acceptable as per laid down procedure. You cannot do that," said a source. Alleging a "scam", the opposition Congress has been asking the government whether the per aircraft price of Rafale, according to international bids opened on December 12, 2012, comes to USD 80.95 million (Rs 526.1 crore) as against the Modi government's per aircraft negotiated price of USD 241.66 Million (Rs 1,570.8 crore) as per current exchange rates. The UPA government floated a tender in 2007 for purchase of 126 MMRCA for the Air Force and, post negotiations, two of them--Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon -- remained in the reckoning. However, the deal could not be finalised by the UPA regime. Asked why NDA government did not go for Eurofighter Typhoon as it had offered a 25 per cent price cut, the sources said several European countries were involved in manufacturing of Eurofighter and France was preferred for the inter- governmental deal. The Congress president, on Friday, called out Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Twitter and said: "You said the UPA never released prices of Defence purchases? To nail your lie, here are 3 Parliamentary replies by the UPA with full transparency on pricing. Now do ask our Raksha Mantri to tell India how much each RAFALE jet cost." With that, he attached screenshots of documents - one dated 9 August 2010 titled "Aircraft Carrier Admiral Gorshkov" and another 4 March 2013 titled "Upgradation of Aircraft" - by the Ministry of Defence. The sources said the rates cannot be compared as price depended on the weapons package. In a detailed statement, the defence ministry had on Wednesday termed as "unfounded" allegations made by the Congress about the Rs 58,000-crore deal, asserting that the demand to disclose details such as its value was "unrealistic" as doing so might compromise India's national security. It had said giving an item-wise cost and other information would reveal details about weapons systems and customisation of the jet. The ministry had said that in 2012, the then defence minister exercised an unprecedented personal veto on the laid down institutional process then underway for the procurement of 126 jets.

There was no Rafale deal under UPA: Defence ministry sources

Days after Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar expressed his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/javed-akhtar-denies-writing-songs-for-pm-narendra-modi-biopic-tweets-shocked-204911">disappointment over the inclusion of his name</a> on the poster of the 'Narendra Modi' movie, producer of the movie Sandip Singh, clarified on Sunday that he was given approval from T-series Bhushan Kumar.

"I grew up hearing Javed Akhtar sir's songs, I wanted to keep one of his songs in the movie; I spoke to T-series' Bhushan Kumar ji, he agreed to it. I don't know if he (Akhtar) was informed about it, it's the music company's job, "Sandip Singh said.

Javed Akhtar had earlier tweeted the poster of the film and said, “Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it."

Akhtar was mentioned in the poster of the movie "Narendra Modi" which is set to release on April 5. &nbsp;

Directed by Omung Kumar, the movie is starring Vivek Oberoi who is playing the role of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On being cast for the role, Vivek in an interview said, "I consider Modiji as an inspiration. Modiji is one of those personalities... if he decides something, if he is clear with his vision, he doesn't fear to achieve his goal. It is very inspirational."

Days after Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar expressed his disappointment over the inclusion of his name on the poster of the 'Narendra Modi' movie, producer of the movie Sandip Singh, clarified on Sunday that he was given approval from T-series Bhushan Kumar.

Days after Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar expressed his disappointment over the inclusion of his name on the poster of the 'Narendra Modi' movie, producer of the movie Sandip Singh, clarified on Sunday that he was given approval from T-series Bhushan Kumar. "I grew up hearing Javed Akhtar sir's songs, I wanted to keep one of his songs in the movie; I spoke to T-series' Bhushan Kumar ji, he agreed to it. I don't know if he (Akhtar) was informed about it, it's the music company's job, "Sandip Singh said. Javed Akhtar had earlier tweeted the poster of the film and said, “Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it." Akhtar was mentioned in the poster of the movie "Narendra Modi" which is set to release on April 5. Directed by Omung Kumar, the movie is starring Vivek Oberoi who is playing the role of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On being cast for the role, Vivek in an interview said, "I consider Modiji as an inspiration. Modiji is one of those personalities... if he decides something, if he is clear with his vision, he doesn't fear to achieve his goal. It is very inspirational."

T-series Bhushan Kumar agreed to include Javed Akhtar's song in 'Narendra Modi' movie: Producer Sandip Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their death anniversary and said their story of supreme sacrifice will continue to inspire generations.

"I bow to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on their martyrdom day. The tale of their courage and valour will continue to inspire generations," Prime Minister Tweeted.

On March 23, 1931, the three revolutionary freedom fighters were hanged to death, a few hours ahead of schedule, in the Lahore conspiracy case.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also paid tributes to the three freedom fighters and wrote on the micro-blogging site, "On Martyrdom day of Shaeed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, we, remember their supreme sacrifice for the motherland and pay them our respectful tributes. The great martyrs have always been the inspiration for every Indian."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their death anniversary and said their story of supreme sacrifice will continue to inspire generations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on their death anniversary and said their story of supreme sacrifice will continue to inspire generations. "I bow to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on their martyrdom day. The tale of their courage and valour will continue to inspire generations," Prime Minister Tweeted. On March 23, 1931, the three revolutionary freedom fighters were hanged to death, a few hours ahead of schedule, in the Lahore conspiracy case. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also paid tributes to the three freedom fighters and wrote on the micro-blogging site, "On Martyrdom day of Shaeed-E-Azam Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev, we, remember their supreme sacrifice for the motherland and pay them our respectful tributes. The great martyrs have always been the inspiration for every Indian."

PM Modi pays tribute to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on their martyrdom day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi writes in a blog on Saturday that Dr Lohia would be "proud" of the NDA government led by the BJP for following his ideas.

"Today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic 'maha-milawat' or adulteration alliances with the same Congress (which Lohia opposed). It is both ironical and reprehensible," wrote PM Modi in a blog to mark the 109th birth anniversary of Lohia.

The Samajwadi Party, Janata Dal-Secular, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Sharad Yadav's Loktantrik Janata Dal, which will merge with the RJD after the Lok Sabha polls, were some of the parties formed on socialist ideology.

"Dr Lohia's thoughts inspire us. He wrote about modernising agriculture and empowering farmers, which the NDA government is effectively doing through efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and more," he said in the blog shared on Twitter.

Referring to gender inequality, the prime minister said nothing pained Lohia more than the caste hierarchy and inequality between women and men.

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Today they are betraying the principles of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India. 
 
My thoughts on why those who claim to follow Dr. Lohia have let him down. Do read. <a href="https://t.co/gq1srcXwkx">https://t.co/gq1srcXwkx</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1109306402395377665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"But neck deep in vote bank politics, it was parties that dishonestly claim to be Dr Lohia's followers that opposed the NDA government's move to abolish the inhuman practice of triple talaq," he alleged.

Hitting out at the Congress, Modi said whenever Lohia spoke, the Congress "trembled with fear".

He said Lohia had once claimed that during the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the Army improved.

"These words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, the industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored," the PM wrote.

(With inputs from PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi writes in a blog on Saturday that Dr Lohia would be "proud" of the NDA government led by the BJP for following his ideas. "Today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic 'maha-milawat' or adulteration alliances with the same Congress (which Lohia opposed).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi writes in a blog on Saturday that Dr Lohia would be "proud" of the NDA government led by the BJP for following his ideas. "Today those parties that falsely claim to be Dr Lohia's followers are desperate to form an opportunistic 'maha-milawat' or adulteration alliances with the same Congress (which Lohia opposed). It is both ironical and reprehensible," wrote PM Modi in a blog to mark the 109th birth anniversary of Lohia. The Samajwadi Party, Janata Dal-Secular, Rashtriya Janata Dal and Sharad Yadav's Loktantrik Janata Dal, which will merge with the RJD after the Lok Sabha polls, were some of the parties formed on socialist ideology. "Dr Lohia's thoughts inspire us. He wrote about modernising agriculture and empowering farmers, which the NDA government is effectively doing through efforts such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Krishi Sinchai Yojana, e-Nam, Soil Health Cards and more," he said in the blog shared on Twitter. Referring to gender inequality, the prime minister said nothing pained Lohia more than the caste hierarchy and inequality between women and men. Today they are betraying the principles of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia, tomorrow they will also betray the people of India. My thoughts on why those who claim to follow Dr. Lohia have let him down. Do read. https://t.co/gq1srcXwkx — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 23, 2019 × "But neck deep in vote bank politics, it was parties that dishonestly claim to be Dr Lohia's followers that opposed the NDA government's move to abolish the inhuman practice of triple talaq," he alleged. Hitting out at the Congress, Modi said whenever Lohia spoke, the Congress "trembled with fear". He said Lohia had once claimed that during the Congress regime neither agriculture and industry nor the Army improved. "These words can accurately describe even subsequent Congress regimes, where farmers were harassed, the industry was discouraged (except if they belonged to friends and relatives of Congress leaders) and national security was ignored," the PM wrote. (With inputs from PTI)

Ram Manohar Lohia would have been proud of NDA government: PM Modi

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi&nbsp;gets re-elected in the country".

Also calling PM Modi as a "good actor", Gehlot&nbsp;said the prime minister would do a better job in Bollywood.&nbsp;

"If people re-elect Modi, there will be no certainty on whether elections will be held again in the country or not. Elections will be held in the country and yet not held like it happens in China and Russia, " Gehlot said in an interview to PTI.

"If Modiji was in Bollywood, he would probably have left a different mark in the country and abroad with his mastery in acting, oratory skills and antics,"&nbsp;he said.

Gehlot further attacked PM Modi saying&nbsp;that nobody (including Amit Shah) knows "what's on his mind".&nbsp;

"This man can do anything to win elections...People felt he could even go to war with Pakistan, which is not a good thing....The personality of Modi ji that has emerged before the country is that he can go to any extent before and after elections...To win elections," Gehlot said while attacking Modi and added that "none including Amit Shah knows what is in his mind".

"Modi ji has done very good marketing," he also said, alleging the prime minister is creating a misconception in the minds of people about the Congress.

(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi gets re-elected in the country".

Ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader and Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that, "free and fair elections may become a thing of the past if Modi gets re-elected in the country". Also calling PM Modi as a "good actor", Gehlot said the prime minister would do a better job in Bollywood. "If people re-elect Modi, there will be no certainty on whether elections will be held again in the country or not. Elections will be held in the country and yet not held like it happens in China and Russia, " Gehlot said in an interview to PTI. "If Modiji was in Bollywood, he would probably have left a different mark in the country and abroad with his mastery in acting, oratory skills and antics," he said. Gehlot further attacked PM Modi saying that nobody (including Amit Shah) knows "what's on his mind". "This man can do anything to win elections...People felt he could even go to war with Pakistan, which is not a good thing....The personality of Modi ji that has emerged before the country is that he can go to any extent before and after elections...To win elections," Gehlot said while attacking Modi and added that "none including Amit Shah knows what is in his mind". "Modi ji has done very good marketing," he also said, alleging the prime minister is creating a misconception in the minds of people about the Congress. (With inputs from PTI)

Elections may become thing of past if Modi gets re-elected as prime minister: Ashok Gehlot

Life and times of Manohar Parrikar

NCP chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said the BJP may emerge as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term in office. He was talking to reporters on the sidelines of a function here.

"BJP may emerge as the single largest party post parliamentary elections and will have to seek the support of allies (to form the government). In that scenario, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term," Pawar said.

The former Union minister said he will meet some regional parties across the country on March 14 and 15 in New Delhi, where the further strategy of 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) will be discussed.

When asked about some regional parties going away from the Congress and NCP alliance in Maharashtra, Pawar said, "I appreciate the PWP for extending support to the NCP in the Lok Sabha election.

NCP has also held talks with the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna (SSS) for seat-sharing, but the farmers' front has some expectations from the Congress as well. It will be decided by these two parties."

On Monday, Pawar had said he will not contest next month's Lok Sabha election. The 78-year-old veteran politician had said as two members of his family are going to contest the polls, "somebody had to step back."

However, Pawar had earlier announced that his party workers wanted him to contest from Madha constituency in Solapur district, currently represented by NCP leader Vijaysinh Mohite Patil.

Reacting to Pawar's announcement of not contesting the Lok Sabha polls, Fadnavis had said the NCP leader "sensed the change in the air", and decided to rethink on plans to contest Lok Sabha poll from Madha LS seat.

On the chief minister's remarks, Pawar said, "It is childish to call my decision as a defeat as I have won elections 14 times, including the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections that I contested so far. On the other hand, late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and (BJP veteran) L K Advani had tasted defeat."&nbsp;

NCP chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said the BJP may emerge as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term in office.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar Tuesday said the BJP may emerge as the single largest party in the Lok Sabha elections, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term in office. He was talking to reporters on the sidelines of a function here. "BJP may emerge as the single largest party post parliamentary elections and will have to seek the support of allies (to form the government). In that scenario, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to get a second term," Pawar said. The former Union minister said he will meet some regional parties across the country on March 14 and 15 in New Delhi, where the further strategy of 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) will be discussed. When asked about some regional parties going away from the Congress and NCP alliance in Maharashtra, Pawar said, "I appreciate the PWP for extending support to the NCP in the Lok Sabha election. NCP has also held talks with the Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatna (SSS) for seat-sharing, but the farmers' front has some expectations from the Congress as well. It will be decided by these two parties." On Monday, Pawar had said he will not contest next month's Lok Sabha election. The 78-year-old veteran politician had said as two members of his family are going to contest the polls, "somebody had to step back." However, Pawar had earlier announced that his party workers wanted him to contest from Madha constituency in Solapur district, currently represented by NCP leader Vijaysinh Mohite Patil. Reacting to Pawar's announcement of not contesting the Lok Sabha polls, Fadnavis had said the NCP leader "sensed the change in the air", and decided to rethink on plans to contest Lok Sabha poll from Madha LS seat. On the chief minister's remarks, Pawar said, "It is childish to call my decision as a defeat as I have won elections 14 times, including the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections that I contested so far. On the other hand, late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and (BJP veteran) L K Advani had tasted defeat."

BJP may emerge as single largest party, but second term for PM Modi unlikely: Sharad Pawar

Defence Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-not-believe-in-people-who-spread-rumours-nirmala-sitharaman-to-ex-servicemen-201119">Nirmala Sitharaman </a>on Monday alleged that the UPA denied benefits to the "martyrs" of paramilitary forces for years and it was the Modi government which ultimately conferred these benefits.

In a Facebook post, she said that on March 3, 2011, under the UPA II government, a Cabinet note was moved by the Home Ministry for a declaration of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) persons, who died on active duty, as martyrs.

Subsequently, the then prime minister Manmohan Singh's office referred the matter to a Committee of Secretaries (CoS) on March 14 2011.

"Further on, in the CoS meeting which was held on 14th September 2011, the committee could not reach a common consensus on giving shaheed/martyr status to CAPF personnel who died on active duty. Thereafter, the matter was shelved altogether by Government of India and not taken up further," Sitharaman said.

She said after the Pulwama terror attack, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi added a "new dimension" to the public discourse for the paramilitary personnel, who lay down their lives in the line of duty, by demanding that they are given the martyr status which is given to those belonging to the armed forces.

"Mr Gandhi doesn't come from a school of thought wherein it is believed that those who sacrifice their lives for the cause of the nation are indeed martyrs in everyone's eyes, mind, heart and soul," she said.

Sitharaman said the Modi government in 2016 increased the ex-gratia lump sum compensation to families of deceased CAPF jawans from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 35 lakh in case of deaths occurring in border skirmishes and action against militants.

Further, in cases of death attributed to acts of violence, the compensation was increased to Rs 25 lakh. This was in addition to their all other allowances, the minister said.

In 2017, the government further issued guidelines for issuance of 'Operational Casualty Certificate' to the Next of Kin (NoK) of CAPFs, Assam Rifles and CPOs personnel confirming another set of benefits to them.

"They, along with lump sum ex-gratia pension to NoK, now get a liberalised family compensation and death gratuity as per rules. Presently, the compensation payable to our martyrs who have the 'Battle Casualty' status in the case of Indian Armed Forces and those who have the 'Operational Casualty' status in the case of CAPFs is identical," she said.

"The Congress president was expected to be in the aware and informed of these facts and information. The UPA government denied these benefits to the martyrs for years and it was the Modi-led NDA government which ultimately conferred these benefits," she added.

The 88,000 CRPF personnel who are deployed in the Left Wing Extremism-hit areas and Jammu and Kashmir had their 'risk and hardship' allowance increased by 48 per cent in the case of officers and 78 per cent in the case of other ranks.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday alleged that the UPA denied benefits to the "martyrs" of paramilitary forces for years and it was the Modi government which ultimately conferred these benefits.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday alleged that the UPA denied benefits to the "martyrs" of paramilitary forces for years and it was the Modi government which ultimately conferred these benefits. In a Facebook post, she said that on March 3, 2011, under the UPA II government, a Cabinet note was moved by the Home Ministry for a declaration of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) persons, who died on active duty, as martyrs. Subsequently, the then prime minister Manmohan Singh's office referred the matter to a Committee of Secretaries (CoS) on March 14 2011. "Further on, in the CoS meeting which was held on 14th September 2011, the committee could not reach a common consensus on giving shaheed/martyr status to CAPF personnel who died on active duty. Thereafter, the matter was shelved altogether by Government of India and not taken up further," Sitharaman said. She said after the Pulwama terror attack, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi added a "new dimension" to the public discourse for the paramilitary personnel, who lay down their lives in the line of duty, by demanding that they are given the martyr status which is given to those belonging to the armed forces. "Mr Gandhi doesn't come from a school of thought wherein it is believed that those who sacrifice their lives for the cause of the nation are indeed martyrs in everyone's eyes, mind, heart and soul," she said. Sitharaman said the Modi government in 2016 increased the ex-gratia lump sum compensation to families of deceased CAPF jawans from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 35 lakh in case of deaths occurring in border skirmishes and action against militants. Further, in cases of death attributed to acts of violence, the compensation was increased to Rs 25 lakh. This was in addition to their all other allowances, the minister said. In 2017, the government further issued guidelines for issuance of 'Operational Casualty Certificate' to the Next of Kin (NoK) of CAPFs, Assam Rifles and CPOs personnel confirming another set of benefits to them. "They, along with lump sum ex-gratia pension to NoK, now get a liberalised family compensation and death gratuity as per rules. Presently, the compensation payable to our martyrs who have the 'Battle Casualty' status in the case of Indian Armed Forces and those who have the 'Operational Casualty' status in the case of CAPFs is identical," she said. "The Congress president was expected to be in the aware and informed of these facts and information. The UPA government denied these benefits to the martyrs for years and it was the Modi-led NDA government which ultimately conferred these benefits," she added. The 88,000 CRPF personnel who are deployed in the Left Wing Extremism-hit areas and Jammu and Kashmir had their 'risk and hardship' allowance increased by 48 per cent in the case of officers and 78 per cent in the case of other ranks.

UPA denied martyr benefits to paramilitary forces, Modi govt conferred it: Nirmala Sitharaman

With the release of the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2019-lok-sabha-elections-to-be-held-in-seven-phases-starting-april-11-202362"> election dates for the 2019 Lok Sabha</a> on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi extended best wishes to all political parties and candidates for the upcoming polls.

In a tweet, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/enough-is-enough-india-cannot-suffer-terrorism-till-eternity-pm-modi-202353">PM Modi</a> said, "Wishing all political parties and candidates the very best for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. We may belong to different parties but our aim must be the same- the development of India and empowerment of every Indian!".

He also urged the citizens of the country to come out in large numbers and mark their active participation in the polls.

"The festival of democracy, Elections are here. I urge my fellow Indians to enrich the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with their active participation. I hope this election witnesses a historic turnout. I particularly call upon first time voters to vote in record numbers".

He further praised the Election Commission of the country and extended wishes to the officials and the security personnel who will be on the field.

"Best wishes to the Election Commission, all those officials and security personnel who will be on the field, across the length and breadth of India assuring smooth elections. India is very proud of the EC for assiduously organising elections for several years".

PM Modi also sought blessings for his government and asked the countrymen to contribute to "#PhirEkBaarModiSarkar".

He said, "Guided by ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, NDA seeks your blessings again. We spent the last five years fulfilling basic necessities that were left unfulfilled for 70 long years. Now, time has come to build on that and create a strong, prosperous &amp; secure India. #PhirEkBaarModiSarkar".

Hitting out at the Congress he said, "In 2014, the people comprehensively rejected the UPA. There was unprecedented anger over the UPA’s corruption, nepotism and policy paralysis. India’s self-confidence was at an all-time low and the people of India wanted to rid the nation of such decay and pessimism".

"The last five years have shown that with the blessings and participation of 130 crore Indians, what was earlier deemed impossible has now become possible," he added.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Today, the people of India know that it is possible to: 
 
Become the fastest growing economy. 
 
Give a befitting reply to terror. 
 
Eliminate poverty at a record pace. 
 
Make India Swachh. 
 
Remove corruption and punish the corrupt. 
 
Ensure inclusive and extensive development.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1104723568661651461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
India is proud that: 
 
2.5 crore families have electricity for the first time. 
 
7 crore households have smoke-free kitchens. 
 
1.5 crore Indians got their own homes. 
 
These, and many other instances show that with the right approach and futuristic policies, nothing is impossible!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1104723912867241984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are to be held in seven phases starting April from April 11.&nbsp;

The polling dates over the seven phases are April 11, April 18, April 23, May 6, May 12, and May 19. All votes will be counted on May 23.&nbsp;

The announcement was made Sunday by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora.&nbsp;

With the release of the election dates for the 2019 Lok Sabha on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi extended best wishes to all political parties and candidates for the upcoming polls.

With the release of the election dates for the 2019 Lok Sabha on Sunday, Prime Minister Modi extended best wishes to all political parties and candidates for the upcoming polls. In a tweet, PM Modi said, "Wishing all political parties and candidates the very best for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. We may belong to different parties but our aim must be the same- the development of India and empowerment of every Indian!". He also urged the citizens of the country to come out in large numbers and mark their active participation in the polls. "The festival of democracy, Elections are here. I urge my fellow Indians to enrich the 2019 Lok Sabha elections with their active participation. I hope this election witnesses a historic turnout. I particularly call upon first time voters to vote in record numbers". He further praised the Election Commission of the country and extended wishes to the officials and the security personnel who will be on the field. "Best wishes to the Election Commission, all those officials and security personnel who will be on the field, across the length and breadth of India assuring smooth elections. India is very proud of the EC for assiduously organising elections for several years". PM Modi also sought blessings for his government and asked the countrymen to contribute to "#PhirEkBaarModiSarkar". He said, "Guided by ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, NDA seeks your blessings again. We spent the last five years fulfilling basic necessities that were left unfulfilled for 70 long years. Now, time has come to build on that and create a strong, prosperous & secure India. #PhirEkBaarModiSarkar". Hitting out at the Congress he said, "In 2014, the people comprehensively rejected the UPA. There was unprecedented anger over the UPA’s corruption, nepotism and policy paralysis. India’s self-confidence was at an all-time low and the people of India wanted to rid the nation of such decay and pessimism". "The last five years have shown that with the blessings and participation of 130 crore Indians, what was earlier deemed impossible has now become possible," he added. Today, the people of India know that it is possible to: Become the fastest growing economy. Give a befitting reply to terror. Eliminate poverty at a record pace. Make India Swachh. Remove corruption and punish the corrupt. Ensure inclusive and extensive development. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 10, 2019 × India is proud that: 2.5 crore families have electricity for the first time. 7 crore households have smoke-free kitchens. 1.5 crore Indians got their own homes. These, and many other instances show that with the right approach and futuristic policies, nothing is impossible! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 10, 2019 × The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are to be held in seven phases starting April from April 11. The polling dates over the seven phases are April 11, April 18, April 23, May 6, May 12, and May 19. All votes will be counted on May 23. The announcement was made Sunday by Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora.

Urge fellow Indians to enrich 2019 Lok Sabha elections with active participation: PM Modi

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-sends-nirav-modi-extradition-request-to-court-enforcement-directorate-202187">Nirav Modi in London</a>, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday.

“The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London. It, however, does not know that the Indian government’s efforts are on to bring him back to India,” Javadekar told ANI.

He said that Indian government’s requests for the extradition of economic offenders have been acted upon earlier as well, and gave the example of Rajiv Saxena, Christian Michel, and Deepak Talwar to bring home his point.

“All these economic offenders ran away as soon as the BJP came to power at the Centre under the leadership of Narendra Modi. They knew that they won’t be spared by the BJP government. Till the time Congress was in power, they knew that their loot will continue,” he said.

“I want to ask the Congress leaders—What is their relationship with Nirav Modi? One day Rahul Gandhi goes to a programme organised by Nirav Modi, and next day he gets a loan from the Allahabad Bank,” Javadekar said.

Union Minister Javadekar’s reaction comes in response to the reports in British media that Nirav Modi is living in London.

The British newspaper story reveals that Modi has also started a new diamond business in Soho.

The newspaper headlined its piece—‘Exclusive: India’s most wanted man Nirav Modi—accused of £1.5 billion fraud—living openly in London.’

The video shows Nirav Modi sporting a handle-bar moustache and wearing an expensive jacket, repeatedly saying “no comments” to a series of questions put to him by the newspaper’s reporter, including whether he has sought asylum in the United Kingdom.

Modi is the subject of an extradition request by India, along with an Interpol Red Corner Notice issued for the PNB scam accused.

He is the prime accused in Rs 13,000 crore PNB fraud, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, who has got the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda.

Modi and Choksi left India in January last year before the PNB scam was exposed.The duo has not returned to India despite repeated summons from the probe agencies and courts to be put on trial.

“Journalists of The Telegraph managed to track down Nirav Modi. Why was the Modi Govt unable to do so? Who is Modi trying to protect? Himself, Nirav Modi or the people who let him escape?" the Congress tweeted on its official handle.

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire Nirav Modi in London, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday. “The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London.

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire Nirav Modi in London, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday. “The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London. It, however, does not know that the Indian government’s efforts are on to bring him back to India,” Javadekar told ANI. He said that Indian government’s requests for the extradition of economic offenders have been acted upon earlier as well, and gave the example of Rajiv Saxena, Christian Michel, and Deepak Talwar to bring home his point. “All these economic offenders ran away as soon as the BJP came to power at the Centre under the leadership of Narendra Modi. They knew that they won’t be spared by the BJP government. Till the time Congress was in power, they knew that their loot will continue,” he said. “I want to ask the Congress leaders—What is their relationship with Nirav Modi? One day Rahul Gandhi goes to a programme organised by Nirav Modi, and next day he gets a loan from the Allahabad Bank,” Javadekar said. Union Minister Javadekar’s reaction comes in response to the reports in British media that Nirav Modi is living in London. The British newspaper story reveals that Modi has also started a new diamond business in Soho. The newspaper headlined its piece—‘Exclusive: India’s most wanted man Nirav Modi—accused of £1.5 billion fraud—living openly in London.’ The video shows Nirav Modi sporting a handle-bar moustache and wearing an expensive jacket, repeatedly saying “no comments” to a series of questions put to him by the newspaper’s reporter, including whether he has sought asylum in the United Kingdom. Modi is the subject of an extradition request by India, along with an Interpol Red Corner Notice issued for the PNB scam accused. He is the prime accused in Rs 13,000 crore PNB fraud, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, who has got the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda. Modi and Choksi left India in January last year before the PNB scam was exposed.The duo has not returned to India despite repeated summons from the probe agencies and courts to be put on trial. “Journalists of The Telegraph managed to track down Nirav Modi. Why was the Modi Govt unable to do so? Who is Modi trying to protect? Himself, Nirav Modi or the people who let him escape?" the Congress tweeted on its official handle.

Congress is happy seeing Nirav Modi in London: Prakash Javadekar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the “daddy” of India as well as of the AIADMK and “we have accepted his leadership,” said Tamil Nadu Minister KT Rajendra Balaji in Tamil Nadu on Saturday.

“When Amma (Jayalalithaa) was alive, she was in full control of the party. Her decisions were her own. So, it was a different time. But in today`s context due to the absence of Amma, Modi is our daddy. He is India’s daddy. So, we have accepted his leadership,” he said.

Balaji’s made this observation when the reporters asked him the reason for AIADMK to forge an alliance with the BJP when late party supremo Jayalalithaa did not do so in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. &nbsp;

The minister further said, “In 2014, Jayalalithaa contest alone to show the strength of Tamil Nadu. Otherwise, she did not have any issue (with Modi). She respected Modi.”

Last month, the BJP and the AIADMK stitched a deal to fight the coming Lok Sabha polls together in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

Under the arrangement, the BJP will contest five out of 39 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Tamil Nadu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the “daddy” of India as well as of the AIADMK and “we have accepted his leadership,” said Tamil Nadu Minister KT Rajendra Balaji in Tamil Nadu on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the “daddy” of India as well as of the AIADMK and “we have accepted his leadership,” said Tamil Nadu Minister KT Rajendra Balaji in Tamil Nadu on Saturday. “When Amma (Jayalalithaa) was alive, she was in full control of the party. Her decisions were her own. So, it was a different time. But in today`s context due to the absence of Amma, Modi is our daddy. He is India’s daddy. So, we have accepted his leadership,” he said. Balaji’s made this observation when the reporters asked him the reason for AIADMK to forge an alliance with the BJP when late party supremo Jayalalithaa did not do so in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. The minister further said, “In 2014, Jayalalithaa contest alone to show the strength of Tamil Nadu. Otherwise, she did not have any issue (with Modi). She respected Modi.” Last month, the BJP and the AIADMK stitched a deal to fight the coming Lok Sabha polls together in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Under the arrangement, the BJP will contest five out of 39 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Tamil Nadu.

In absence of Amma, Modi is our daddy: AIADMK minister

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-last-5-years-we-have-hit-pakistan-3-times-rajnath-singh-202200">In </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-last-5-years-we-have-hit-pakistan-3-times-rajnath-singh-202200">last</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-last-5-years-we-have-hit-pakistan-3-times-rajnath-singh-202200"> 5 years, we have hit Pakistan 3 times: Rajnath Singh</a>

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Saturday that in the last five years, India has hit Pakistan three times.&nbsp;"Pichle 5 varsho mein, teen baar apni seema ke bahar jaa kar hum logon ne air strike kar kaamyaabi haasil ki hai (We have crossed our borders three times in the last five years and conducted successful air strikes)," Singh said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-may-be-preparing-missile-or-space-launch-npr-202184">North Korea may be preparing missile or space launch: NPR</a>

North Korea&nbsp;may be preparing for a missile or space launch, US news outlet NPR has reported, based on satellite image analysis of a key facility near Pyongyang.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-slams-congresss-handling-of-terror-attacks-says-india-now-follows-new-policy-202209">Modi slams Congress's handling of terror </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-slams-congresss-handling-of-terror-attacks-says-india-now-follows-new-policy-202209">attacks,</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-slams-congresss-handling-of-terror-attacks-says-india-now-follows-new-policy-202209"> says India now follows </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-slams-congresss-handling-of-terror-attacks-says-india-now-follows-new-policy-202209">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-slams-congresss-handling-of-terror-attacks-says-india-now-follows-new-policy-202209"> policy</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday again hit out at those seeking proof of&nbsp;India's air strike at Balakot&nbsp;in Pakistan and slammed the previous Congress government for its handling of terror attacks like the one in Mumbai in 2008.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-sends-nirav-modi-extradition-request-to-court-enforcement-directorate-202187">Britain sends Nirav Modi extradition request to UK court: Enforcement Directorate&nbsp;</a>

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has said the government of United Kingdom has sent an extradition request for fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi to a UK court for further proceeding.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wc-abhinandan-piloted-mig-21-bison-shot-down-pak-f-16-have-electronic-evidence-mea-202214">WC Abhinandan-piloted MiG-21 Bison shot down Pak F-16; have electronic evidence: MEA</a>

An Indian Air Force MiG-21 Bison, piloted by&nbsp;Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, shot down a Pakistan Air Force F-16 fighter aircraft and there are eyewitness accounts as well as electronic evidence for it, the Ministry of External Affairs said Saturday.

&nbsp;

In last 5 years, we have hit Pakistan 3 times: Rajnath Singh Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Saturday that in the last five years, India has hit Pakistan three times.

In last 5 years, we have hit Pakistan 3 times: Rajnath Singh Home Minister Rajnath Singh said Saturday that in the last five years, India has hit Pakistan three times. "Pichle 5 varsho mein, teen baar apni seema ke bahar jaa kar hum logon ne air strike kar kaamyaabi haasil ki hai (We have crossed our borders three times in the last five years and conducted successful air strikes)," Singh said. North Korea may be preparing missile or space launch: NPR North Korea may be preparing for a missile or space launch, US news outlet NPR has reported, based on satellite image analysis of a key facility near Pyongyang. Modi slams Congress's handling of terror attacks, says India now follows new policy Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday again hit out at those seeking proof of India's air strike at Balakot in Pakistan and slammed the previous Congress government for its handling of terror attacks like the one in Mumbai in 2008. Britain sends Nirav Modi extradition request to UK court: Enforcement Directorate The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has said the government of United Kingdom has sent an extradition request for fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi to a UK court for further proceeding. WC Abhinandan-piloted MiG-21 Bison shot down Pak F-16; have electronic evidence: MEA An Indian Air Force MiG-21 Bison, piloted by Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, shot down a Pakistan Air Force F-16 fighter aircraft and there are eyewitness accounts as well as electronic evidence for it, the Ministry of External Affairs said Saturday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday again hit out at those seeking proof of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-last-5-years-we-have-hit-pakistan-3-times-rajnath-singh-202200">India's air strike at Balakot</a>&nbsp;in Pakistan and slammed the previous Congress government for its handling of terror attacks like the one in Mumbai in 2008.

Addressing a public meeting in Greater Noida, Modi said the "corrupt" are opposing and abusing him in order to get votes.

Modi said today India works on 'nayi reeti, nayi neeti' (new methods, new policies), asserting that after the terror attack in Uri (Jammu and Kashmir) in 2016, the country for the first time taught terrorists a lesson "in a language they understand" with surgical strikes.

"Is it okay for you to have a government that does nothing? A chowkidar (referring to himself) who sleeps?" he asked the gathering of thousands, after inaugurating several development projects.

He said the country can never forget the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai. India should have responded then and the whole world would have supported the country, he said.

"But that required courage. All evidence was against terrorist handlers in Pakistan which proved them guilty. But how did India respond? There are reports that our forces were ready to avenge the terror attack even then, but Delhi remained cold. The forces were not allowed to take any action," he said.

Stating that there were repeated terror attacks in India after 2008 whose links were found across the border, Modi questioned the previous government's response. They did not change their policy, they only changed their home ministers, he said.

"Had the previous government shown some courage and taught terrorists a lesson in their own language, terrorism would not have emerged as the menace it is now," he said.

He said after the pre-dawn air strike on February 24, India was quietly monitoring the situation and it was Pakistan which started "crying" around 5.00 am that "Modi has hit us".

"They were thinking they can keep wounding India, wage attacks, proxy wars and India would not respond. The reason the enemies of India could think this was because of the attitude of the 'remote-controlled' government prior to 2014. That is why the enemies could nurture this attitude," the prime minster said.

He said some politicians are making controversial statements which elicit applause in Pakistan and urged the people to decide if they want to trust them or not.

"Aaj har bhrasht ko Modi se kasht hai (Today every corrupt person has a problem with Modi). There is a competition among them to abuse this chowkidar (watchman), they think abusing me will get them votes," Modi said.

Referring to the opposition, he said, "They have turned so hopeless that in their stubbornness to oppose Modi, they have started opposing the nation also."

"After Uri, proof was sought. Our soldiers did something that has never happened before. Our soldiers struck terrorists inside their home. Terrorists and their guardians had not expected such action (this time)," he said.

"They thought if India once did a surgical strike, they would again do something similar. So they had deployed forces along the border, but we went by air this time," Modi added.

While addressing a public meeting in Ghaziabad on Friday, the prime minister had slammed rivals' questioning the air strike and said the "trust of 130 crore people" was his proof to them.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday again hit out at those seeking proof of India's air strike at Balakot in Pakistan and slammed the previous Congress government for its handling of terror attacks like the one in Mumbai in 2008.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday again hit out at those seeking proof of India's air strike at Balakot in Pakistan and slammed the previous Congress government for its handling of terror attacks like the one in Mumbai in 2008. Addressing a public meeting in Greater Noida, Modi said the "corrupt" are opposing and abusing him in order to get votes. Modi said today India works on 'nayi reeti, nayi neeti' (new methods, new policies), asserting that after the terror attack in Uri (Jammu and Kashmir) in 2016, the country for the first time taught terrorists a lesson "in a language they understand" with surgical strikes. "Is it okay for you to have a government that does nothing? A chowkidar (referring to himself) who sleeps?" he asked the gathering of thousands, after inaugurating several development projects. He said the country can never forget the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai. India should have responded then and the whole world would have supported the country, he said. "But that required courage. All evidence was against terrorist handlers in Pakistan which proved them guilty. But how did India respond? There are reports that our forces were ready to avenge the terror attack even then, but Delhi remained cold. The forces were not allowed to take any action," he said. Stating that there were repeated terror attacks in India after 2008 whose links were found across the border, Modi questioned the previous government's response. They did not change their policy, they only changed their home ministers, he said. "Had the previous government shown some courage and taught terrorists a lesson in their own language, terrorism would not have emerged as the menace it is now," he said. He said after the pre-dawn air strike on February 24, India was quietly monitoring the situation and it was Pakistan which started "crying" around 5.00 am that "Modi has hit us". "They were thinking they can keep wounding India, wage attacks, proxy wars and India would not respond. The reason the enemies of India could think this was because of the attitude of the 'remote-controlled' government prior to 2014. That is why the enemies could nurture this attitude," the prime minster said. He said some politicians are making controversial statements which elicit applause in Pakistan and urged the people to decide if they want to trust them or not. "Aaj har bhrasht ko Modi se kasht hai (Today every corrupt person has a problem with Modi). There is a competition among them to abuse this chowkidar (watchman), they think abusing me will get them votes," Modi said. Referring to the opposition, he said, "They have turned so hopeless that in their stubbornness to oppose Modi, they have started opposing the nation also." "After Uri, proof was sought. Our soldiers did something that has never happened before. Our soldiers struck terrorists inside their home. Terrorists and their guardians had not expected such action (this time)," he said. "They thought if India once did a surgical strike, they would again do something similar. So they had deployed forces along the border, but we went by air this time," Modi added. While addressing a public meeting in Ghaziabad on Friday, the prime minister had slammed rivals' questioning the air strike and said the "trust of 130 crore people" was his proof to them.

Modi slams Congress's handling of terror attacks, says India now follows new policy

At what cost the BJP should be stopped is the question which confronts Congress Party today. Should Congress Party sacrifice itself on the altar of secularism to prevent BJP coming to power or should it fight the elections to expand itself both electorally and organisationally?&nbsp;

Ideally, this question should have been settled two years back, but the party continues to vacillate on the issue of alliance and organisation. Congress today stands split between two types of groups. One group wants to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi at any cost, and hence, wants Congress to sacrifice and accommodate regional parties in form of a broader alliance.&nbsp;

The other group wants to contest the Lok Sabha elections with smaller partners who add strength to the Congress. This group has been resenting party’s tryst with SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh and with AAP in Delhi. What is surprising is despite resistance from the local leadership, the idea to stich an alliance continues to flow from the top leaders in the Congress. Even in the case of Uttar Pradesh, a big section within the Congress desires to become the part of the umbrella alliance in Uttar Pradesh.

The desire exists understanding fully well that it would damage the reputation and standing of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. With an alliance in place, the question would arise,” Why did you get Priyanka when Congress only wanted to fight on 10 odd seats.”

Where does this fear stems from? Does it stem from the fact that Congress has accepted that it cannot match vote consolidation of the BJP all across India? The answer lies somewhere else. It lies within the culture of Congress post 1970s.

Over a period of time, ideological debate on issues and individuals died in the Congress. This is not to say that great debates are taking place under Modi’s BJP, but RSS makes up for it by pursuing dialogues internally. Lack of this exercise creates an atmosphere which subsequently reduces idealism in the party. Idealism is a glue which kept Left and Right alive during lean times. Congress on the other hand either falls back on charisma of the Gandhi’s or power to stay together. With reduced charisma of Gandhis in national politics, the glue which holds the Congress together today is power hence the pressure from senior leadership to ensure Modi loses at any cost, even at the cost of the Congress Party?

This thinking needs to be seriously reversed for the health of democracy. Congress is the only national party after BJP. It is down but not out. It needs to get into a smart alliance with smaller parties and ensure that narrative remains around jobs and economy. Congress mishandled Pulwama terror attack and BJP stole the thunder right under its nose. Congress needs to reset the narrative which it had after winning three Hindi heartland states. If it fails, Congress will again be reduced to two digits in Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Congress needs to regain the lost confidence too with the message that it will remain in business for the next 100 years. RSS was banned thrice and faced the stigma of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination but still survived to ensure that it had its government with a simple majority in power in 2014. This tenacity to stay relevant should be a learning curve for Congress.&nbsp;

This tenacity can be reached if Congress recreates a robust ideological culture inside the party which would recreate new ideals for the Congress.&nbsp;

Side by side, it should be ensured that the organisation is not compromised for the sake of keeping Modi out of power. It never worked for the Socialists. There rabid anti-Congress attitude was devoid of ideology and ultimately led to their own demise. Their governments were short lived. Same should not happen to Congress as it cannot afford to become Rishi Dadhichi who gave up his life so that his bones could be used to make an Astra to kill a demon.&nbsp;

In today’s context, Congress as a national party is required as a bulwark against hegemonic BJP. In the interest of democracy, it should focus on its own health rather than following the single point agenda of keeping Modi out.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

At what cost the BJP should be stopped is the question which confronts Congress Party today. Should Congress Party sacrifice itself on the altar of secularism to prevent BJP coming to power or should it fight the elections to expand itself both electorally and organisationally?

At what cost the BJP should be stopped is the question which confronts Congress Party today. Should Congress Party sacrifice itself on the altar of secularism to prevent BJP coming to power or should it fight the elections to expand itself both electorally and organisationally? Ideally, this question should have been settled two years back, but the party continues to vacillate on the issue of alliance and organisation. Congress today stands split between two types of groups. One group wants to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi at any cost, and hence, wants Congress to sacrifice and accommodate regional parties in form of a broader alliance. The other group wants to contest the Lok Sabha elections with smaller partners who add strength to the Congress. This group has been resenting party’s tryst with SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh and with AAP in Delhi. What is surprising is despite resistance from the local leadership, the idea to stich an alliance continues to flow from the top leaders in the Congress. Even in the case of Uttar Pradesh, a big section within the Congress desires to become the part of the umbrella alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The desire exists understanding fully well that it would damage the reputation and standing of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. With an alliance in place, the question would arise,” Why did you get Priyanka when Congress only wanted to fight on 10 odd seats.” Where does this fear stems from? Does it stem from the fact that Congress has accepted that it cannot match vote consolidation of the BJP all across India? The answer lies somewhere else. It lies within the culture of Congress post 1970s. Over a period of time, ideological debate on issues and individuals died in the Congress. This is not to say that great debates are taking place under Modi’s BJP, but RSS makes up for it by pursuing dialogues internally. Lack of this exercise creates an atmosphere which subsequently reduces idealism in the party. Idealism is a glue which kept Left and Right alive during lean times. Congress on the other hand either falls back on charisma of the Gandhi’s or power to stay together. With reduced charisma of Gandhis in national politics, the glue which holds the Congress together today is power hence the pressure from senior leadership to ensure Modi loses at any cost, even at the cost of the Congress Party? This thinking needs to be seriously reversed for the health of democracy. Congress is the only national party after BJP. It is down but not out. It needs to get into a smart alliance with smaller parties and ensure that narrative remains around jobs and economy. Congress mishandled Pulwama terror attack and BJP stole the thunder right under its nose. Congress needs to reset the narrative which it had after winning three Hindi heartland states. If it fails, Congress will again be reduced to two digits in Lok Sabha. Congress needs to regain the lost confidence too with the message that it will remain in business for the next 100 years. RSS was banned thrice and faced the stigma of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination but still survived to ensure that it had its government with a simple majority in power in 2014. This tenacity to stay relevant should be a learning curve for Congress. This tenacity can be reached if Congress recreates a robust ideological culture inside the party which would recreate new ideals for the Congress. Side by side, it should be ensured that the organisation is not compromised for the sake of keeping Modi out of power. It never worked for the Socialists. There rabid anti-Congress attitude was devoid of ideology and ultimately led to their own demise. Their governments were short lived. Same should not happen to Congress as it cannot afford to become Rishi Dadhichi who gave up his life so that his bones could be used to make an Astra to kill a demon. In today’s context, Congress as a national party is required as a bulwark against hegemonic BJP. In the interest of democracy, it should focus on its own health rather than following the single point agenda of keeping Modi out. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Should Congress sacrifice itself to keep Narendra Modi out?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him.

"They (opposition) want to strike Modi, but I want to strike on terror," Modi said. "They want to remove this `chowkidar but I want to fight poverty," he added.

"The honesty of your 'chowkidar' is troubling those in opposition. That is the reason they are saying Modi hatao, (remove Modi) while I am saying that I want to fight poverty and dishonesty. I am standing firm due to your support", Modi said.

Taking potshots at the attempts to cobble up a mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) against the BJP, Modi said the opposition parties are forming a 'mahamilavat' (highly adulterated) combine to remove him.

"But I am working to safeguard the interest of workers and farmers. I am also working to provide security", he said.

Modi, who launched the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Mandhan Yojana pension scheme, targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi over poverty, saying only those oblivious to sleeping hungry at night can think that it is a "state of mind".

For some, poverty is just an opportunity to click photos, Modi said, sharpening his attack on the Congress chief.

"This scheme is aimed at uplift of the section of society which has been ignored and left at the mercy of God. They (Congress) gave slogans of garibi hatao (end poverty). Some projected themselves as messiah of workers. But during their tenure they did not launch such a scheme, he said. "They ruled the country for 55 years and collected votes in the name of poor," he said.

"They thought that poverty is a mental state. See how is this neta who says that there is nothing like poverty but a mental state," Modi said, targeting the Congress president.

"For them poverty is just an opportunity to click pictures. Only those oblivious to sleeping hungry even for one night can think that it is a state of mind", Modi said, in an obvious reference to Gandhi's 2013 statement that poverty is a state of mind.

"What they could not do in 55 years, this 'chaiwala' did in 55 months by bringing such a scheme," Modi said.

The communists got the opportunity to form a government in many states but could not bring such a pension scheme for the unorganised workers, Modi said.

Such a scheme has been launched for the first time for unorganised sector workers in India, he said.

"This scheme has been launched by our government as a tribute to the unorganised sector workers, who can earn some money till their body is fit but are worried about what will happen to them when they get old, Modi said.

Under this scheme, unorganised workers will get a pension of Rs 3000. I am told that over 14 lakh workers have been enrolled under the scheme, Modi said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him. "They (opposition) want to strike Modi, but I want to strike on terror," Modi said. "They want to remove this `chowkidar but I want to fight poverty," he added. "The honesty of your 'chowkidar' is troubling those in opposition. That is the reason they are saying Modi hatao, (remove Modi) while I am saying that I want to fight poverty and dishonesty. I am standing firm due to your support", Modi said. Taking potshots at the attempts to cobble up a mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) against the BJP, Modi said the opposition parties are forming a 'mahamilavat' (highly adulterated) combine to remove him. "But I am working to safeguard the interest of workers and farmers. I am also working to provide security", he said. Modi, who launched the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Mandhan Yojana pension scheme, targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi over poverty, saying only those oblivious to sleeping hungry at night can think that it is a "state of mind". For some, poverty is just an opportunity to click photos, Modi said, sharpening his attack on the Congress chief. "This scheme is aimed at uplift of the section of society which has been ignored and left at the mercy of God. They (Congress) gave slogans of garibi hatao (end poverty). Some projected themselves as messiah of workers. But during their tenure they did not launch such a scheme, he said. "They ruled the country for 55 years and collected votes in the name of poor," he said. "They thought that poverty is a mental state. See how is this neta who says that there is nothing like poverty but a mental state," Modi said, targeting the Congress president. "For them poverty is just an opportunity to click pictures. Only those oblivious to sleeping hungry even for one night can think that it is a state of mind", Modi said, in an obvious reference to Gandhi's 2013 statement that poverty is a state of mind. "What they could not do in 55 years, this 'chaiwala' did in 55 months by bringing such a scheme," Modi said. The communists got the opportunity to form a government in many states but could not bring such a pension scheme for the unorganised workers, Modi said. Such a scheme has been launched for the first time for unorganised sector workers in India, he said. "This scheme has been launched by our government as a tribute to the unorganised sector workers, who can earn some money till their body is fit but are worried about what will happen to them when they get old, Modi said. Under this scheme, unorganised workers will get a pension of Rs 3000. I am told that over 14 lakh workers have been enrolled under the scheme, Modi said.

Opposition wants to strike Modi, I want to strike terror: PM

In view of the heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday chaired the meeting of National Security Council (NSC) in Delhi, which was attended by the members of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).

Among those present in the meeting were National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, and Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

The NSC meeting, which comes two days after Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was detained by the Pakistani Army, returned home on March 1, took stock of the prevailing security situation.

Wing Commander Abhinandan, flying the MiG 21 Bison, was chasing Pakistani F-16 fighters which had transgressed into the Indian airspace. In the process, his plane crossed over to Pakistani side and was shot down. Although he ejected safely, the pilot was taken into custody by the Pakistan Army upon landing.

On February 28, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan announced the release of Abhinandan on March 1, calling his decision a “peace gesture.”

However, India used diplomatic and military pressure to ensure that Pakistan releases Abhinandan unconditionally, top sources in New Delhi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made no compromises on the Pakistani proposal for holding talks, sources said.

India mounted pressure on Pakistan through the international community, with NSA Doval holding talks with the US and other P-5 countries, the sources said. The External Affairs Ministry also exerted pressure on Pakistan through the Arab world to ensure smooth release of Abhinandan, they said.&nbsp;

In view of the heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday chaired the meeting of National Security Council (NSC) in Delhi, which was attended by the members of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).

In view of the heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday chaired the meeting of National Security Council (NSC) in Delhi, which was attended by the members of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). Among those present in the meeting were National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, and Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The NSC meeting, which comes two days after Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was detained by the Pakistani Army, returned home on March 1, took stock of the prevailing security situation. Wing Commander Abhinandan, flying the MiG 21 Bison, was chasing Pakistani F-16 fighters which had transgressed into the Indian airspace. In the process, his plane crossed over to Pakistani side and was shot down. Although he ejected safely, the pilot was taken into custody by the Pakistan Army upon landing. On February 28, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan announced the release of Abhinandan on March 1, calling his decision a “peace gesture.” However, India used diplomatic and military pressure to ensure that Pakistan releases Abhinandan unconditionally, top sources in New Delhi said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made no compromises on the Pakistani proposal for holding talks, sources said. India mounted pressure on Pakistan through the international community, with NSA Doval holding talks with the US and other P-5 countries, the sources said. The External Affairs Ministry also exerted pressure on Pakistan through the Arab world to ensure smooth release of Abhinandan, they said.

Amid high tensions between India and Pakistan, PM Modi calls National Security Council meeting

RJD chief Lalu Prasad Sunday likened the turnout at the BJP-led coalition's rally in Patna, which was addressed among others by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to the gatherings that he attracted whenever he stopped by at a betel shop on the roadside.

The characteristic swagger of the jailed RJD supremo evoked an angry response from Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, who taunted Prasad over allegations of corruption and patronage to criminals.

Prasad whose Twitter handle is operated by his close aides, while he is himself at Ranchi serving sentences in fodder scam cases, came out with a couple of tweets on the Sankalp Rally which served as the first occasion for the prime minister to share the stage with the RJD supremo's arch-rival Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

The NDA in Bihar at present constitutes the BJP, Kumar's Janata Dal (United) and Ram Vilas Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party.

"Narendra Modi, Nitish and Paswan exerted themselves for months, even used the government machinery to ensure a handsome turnout at Gandhi Maidan. The number of people who gathered there was about the same that I get flanked by whenever I stop my car at a paan ki gumti (betel shop). Try harder gentlemen, get the cameras zoomed (in) a bit more," Yadav said mockingly in his first tweet.

"The great public of Bihar, which always upholds justice, cut them down to size. When a man watches his plan fail, he can utter any type of falsehood, come up with all sorts of jumlas. Possibility of a defeat in Bihar has so badly shaken confidence that a speech teleprompter has been installed even though the address is being made in Hindi," the RJD supremo said in another tweet with the hashtag #BiharRejectsModi.

Sushil Kumar Modi came up with the riposte: "Everybody knows what type of crowds flanked the one whose rule was known for irregularities in purchase of fodder for cattle, B.Ed degrees awarded to young people aspiring for a career in teaching, and bitumen used in construction of roads. Clowns too are known to attract crowds.

"The convicted Lalu Prasad is frustrated over the enthusiastic response that the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister, both enjoying clean images, have received at the rally."

Meanwhile, the RJD's allies in the state -- the Congress, Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samta Party and Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha -- besides other anti-NDA parties like CPI, CPI(ML) and the Aam Aadmi Party also issued statements describing the rally as a "super flop" and accused the BJP-led coalition of misusing government machinery to ensure a satisfactory turnout.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad Sunday likened the turnout at the BJP-led coalition's rally in Patna, which was addressed among others by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to the gatherings that he attracted whenever he stopped by at a betel shop on the roadside.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad Sunday likened the turnout at the BJP-led coalition's rally in Patna, which was addressed among others by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to the gatherings that he attracted whenever he stopped by at a betel shop on the roadside. The characteristic swagger of the jailed RJD supremo evoked an angry response from Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, who taunted Prasad over allegations of corruption and patronage to criminals. Prasad whose Twitter handle is operated by his close aides, while he is himself at Ranchi serving sentences in fodder scam cases, came out with a couple of tweets on the Sankalp Rally which served as the first occasion for the prime minister to share the stage with the RJD supremo's arch-rival Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The NDA in Bihar at present constitutes the BJP, Kumar's Janata Dal (United) and Ram Vilas Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party. "Narendra Modi, Nitish and Paswan exerted themselves for months, even used the government machinery to ensure a handsome turnout at Gandhi Maidan. The number of people who gathered there was about the same that I get flanked by whenever I stop my car at a paan ki gumti (betel shop). Try harder gentlemen, get the cameras zoomed (in) a bit more," Yadav said mockingly in his first tweet. "The great public of Bihar, which always upholds justice, cut them down to size. When a man watches his plan fail, he can utter any type of falsehood, come up with all sorts of jumlas. Possibility of a defeat in Bihar has so badly shaken confidence that a speech teleprompter has been installed even though the address is being made in Hindi," the RJD supremo said in another tweet with the hashtag #BiharRejectsModi. Sushil Kumar Modi came up with the riposte: "Everybody knows what type of crowds flanked the one whose rule was known for irregularities in purchase of fodder for cattle, B.Ed degrees awarded to young people aspiring for a career in teaching, and bitumen used in construction of roads. Clowns too are known to attract crowds. "The convicted Lalu Prasad is frustrated over the enthusiastic response that the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister, both enjoying clean images, have received at the rally." Meanwhile, the RJD's allies in the state -- the Congress, Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samta Party and Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha -- besides other anti-NDA parties like CPI, CPI(ML) and the Aam Aadmi Party also issued statements describing the rally as a "super flop" and accused the BJP-led coalition of misusing government machinery to ensure a satisfactory turnout.

Lalu Yadav, Sushil Modi cross swords over PM Modi's rally in Patna

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled Sunday the project to manufacture the AK-203 Kalashnikov rifle in UP's Amethi. The AK-203, a successor to the iconic AK-47, will be manufactured along with a Russian firm.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Smriti Irani were also present&nbsp;

"One of the most advanced rifles in world AK-203 will be made in Amethi. It will be made by a joint venture of India and Russia. I express my gratitude to my friend President Vladimir Putin, this venture was made possible in such a short time by his support," Modi said Sunday.&nbsp;

"The factory will provide new opportunities for the youth in Amethi and will also open doors for new country's development and security, " he added.&nbsp;

He also said&nbsp;that though they lost the election in Amethi, their party won the hearts of the people.

"In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for the development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here."&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi is the MP from Amethi.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Amethi: We might have lost election here but we won your hearts. In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here. <a href="https://t.co/IPoaMQWN2Y">pic.twitter.com/IPoaMQWN2Y</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1102181575024734208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Attacking the Congress he said, "The army in 2005 had told the government about their requirement for modern weapons, the MP from Amethi had also inaugurated it in 2007 and the work was expected to start from 2010. Three years since the inauguration, the government could not decide on what type of arms and ammunition to be made".

He further targetted the Congress and said, "Some people have the tendency to forget the public after getting their votes. They want to keep the poor in poverty so they can say 'gareebi hatao' generation after generation. We are giving strength to the poor to bring them out of poverty".

PM Modi was in Amethi to launch several development projects. He was also accompanied with Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Smriti Irani and Nirmala Sitharaman.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled Sunday the project to manufacture the AK-203 Kalashnikov rifle in UP's Amethi. The AK-203, a successor to the iconic AK-47, will be manufactured along with a Russian firm.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled Sunday the project to manufacture the AK-203 Kalashnikov rifle in UP's Amethi. The AK-203, a successor to the iconic AK-47, will be manufactured along with a Russian firm. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Smriti Irani were also present "One of the most advanced rifles in world AK-203 will be made in Amethi. It will be made by a joint venture of India and Russia. I express my gratitude to my friend President Vladimir Putin, this venture was made possible in such a short time by his support," Modi said Sunday. "The factory will provide new opportunities for the youth in Amethi and will also open doors for new country's development and security, " he added. He also said that though they lost the election in Amethi, their party won the hearts of the people. "In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for the development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here." Congress president Rahul Gandhi is the MP from Amethi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Amethi: We might have lost election here but we won your hearts. In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here. pic.twitter.com/IPoaMQWN2Y — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 3, 2019 × Attacking the Congress he said, "The army in 2005 had told the government about their requirement for modern weapons, the MP from Amethi had also inaugurated it in 2007 and the work was expected to start from 2010. Three years since the inauguration, the government could not decide on what type of arms and ammunition to be made". He further targetted the Congress and said, "Some people have the tendency to forget the public after getting their votes. They want to keep the poor in poverty so they can say 'gareebi hatao' generation after generation. We are giving strength to the poor to bring them out of poverty". PM Modi was in Amethi to launch several development projects. He was also accompanied with Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Smriti Irani and Nirmala Sitharaman.

Smriti Irani has worked harder for Amethi than person who won from here: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday welcomed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wing-commander-abhinandan-varthaman-returns-to-india-from-pakistan-200585">Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman </a>back to India, saying the nation is proud of his exemplary courage.

He said the country's armed forces are an inspiration for the 130 crore Indians.

"Welcome Home Wing Commander Abhinandan! The nation is proud of your exemplary courage. Our armed forces are an inspiration for 130 crore Indians. Vande Mataram," he tweeted.

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Welcome Home Wing Commander Abhinandan! 
 
The nation is proud of your exemplary courage. 
 
Our armed forces are an inspiration for 130 crore Indians. 
 
Vande Mataram!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1101521097323958272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman returned home from Pakistan on Friday to a hero's welcome, two days after he was captured following a dogfight when his MiG 21 was shot down.

Pakistani officials handed over Varthaman to Indian officials, including from the IAF, at the Attari-Wagah Border.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday welcomed Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman back to India, saying the nation is proud of his exemplary courage. He said the country's armed forces are an inspiration for the 130 crore Indians.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday welcomed Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman back to India, saying the nation is proud of his exemplary courage. He said the country's armed forces are an inspiration for the 130 crore Indians. "Welcome Home Wing Commander Abhinandan! The nation is proud of your exemplary courage. Our armed forces are an inspiration for 130 crore Indians. Vande Mataram," he tweeted. Welcome Home Wing Commander Abhinandan! The nation is proud of your exemplary courage. Our armed forces are an inspiration for 130 crore Indians. Vande Mataram! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 1, 2019 × Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman returned home from Pakistan on Friday to a hero's welcome, two days after he was captured following a dogfight when his MiG 21 was shot down. Pakistani officials handed over Varthaman to Indian officials, including from the IAF, at the Attari-Wagah Border.

Nation is proud of your exemplary courage: PM Modi on IAF Pilot Abhinandan's return

While speaking in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari at the inauguration of several projects, Prime Minister Modi on Friday hailed the contribution of the southern state.

Referring to the IAF Pilot held in captive in Pakistan he said every Indian was proud that the brave Wing Commander was from Tamil Nadu. He further added that the country's first woman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is also from Tamil Nadu.

"Every Indian is proud that the brave Wing Commander is from Tamil Nadu. I am proud that India’s first woman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is from Tamil Nadu, " he said.

PM Modi's who was in Kanyakumari to inaugurate the foundation stone for the extension of a railway line from Rameswaram-Dhanushkodi and a new bridge replacing old Pamban bridge said, "The foundation stone of a railway line between Rameshwaram - Dhanushkodi has also been laid today. This line got damaged after the disaster of 1964 but for over fifty years, no attention was paid to this line".

"I have flagged off the fastest train Tejas between Madurai - Chennai and the train is a great example of 'Make in India,' having been manufactured in the Integral Coach factory of Chennai itself," he said.

Referring to the huge mandate of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections which led to the massive victory of his party, PM Modi said,"&nbsp;The great Tiruvalluvar said 'When the rare chance comes, seize it to do the rare deed.'&nbsp;In 2014, it was after thirty years that a Party got a full majority in the Parliament. The people’s message was clear- they wanted a government that takes bold and tough decisions".

The PM also said that the government was "most sensitive" to the safety and well-being of fishermen. "Due to sustained diplomatic efforts, since May 2014, hundreds of fishermen have been released by Sri Lankan authorities".

Talking about terrorism he said the country has been facing the menace of terrorism for years now however it will no longer be "helpless" in the wake of terror now.

"There is a big difference now- India will no longer be helpless in the wake of terror. From 2004 to 2014 there were several terror attacks. The nation expected perpetrators to be punished but nothing happened".

"26/11 happened, India expected action against terrorists but nothing happened. Uri happened and you saw what our brave men did. Pulwama happened and you saw what our brave men did. I salute all those who are serving the nation. Their vigilance keeps our nation secure," he said.

"There was a time when the news reports would read- Air Force wanted to do surgical strike after 26/11 but UPA blocked it. Today, we are in an era where the news reads- Armed forces have full freedom to do what they want".

The prime minister assured that the Influence of terrorists and terrorism has been curtailed and it is going to be curtailed even more.

"This is a New India. This is an India that will return the damage done by terrorists with interest".

While speaking in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari at the inauguration of several projects, Prime Minister Modi on Friday hailed the contribution of the southern state. Referring to the IAF Pilot held in captive in Pakistan he said every Indian was proud that the brave Wing Commander was from Tamil Nadu.

While speaking in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari at the inauguration of several projects, Prime Minister Modi on Friday hailed the contribution of the southern state. Referring to the IAF Pilot held in captive in Pakistan he said every Indian was proud that the brave Wing Commander was from Tamil Nadu. He further added that the country's first woman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is also from Tamil Nadu. "Every Indian is proud that the brave Wing Commander is from Tamil Nadu. I am proud that India’s first woman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is from Tamil Nadu, " he said. PM Modi's who was in Kanyakumari to inaugurate the foundation stone for the extension of a railway line from Rameswaram-Dhanushkodi and a new bridge replacing old Pamban bridge said, "The foundation stone of a railway line between Rameshwaram - Dhanushkodi has also been laid today. This line got damaged after the disaster of 1964 but for over fifty years, no attention was paid to this line". "I have flagged off the fastest train Tejas between Madurai - Chennai and the train is a great example of 'Make in India,' having been manufactured in the Integral Coach factory of Chennai itself," he said. Referring to the huge mandate of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections which led to the massive victory of his party, PM Modi said," The great Tiruvalluvar said 'When the rare chance comes, seize it to do the rare deed.' In 2014, it was after thirty years that a Party got a full majority in the Parliament. The people’s message was clear- they wanted a government that takes bold and tough decisions". The PM also said that the government was "most sensitive" to the safety and well-being of fishermen. "Due to sustained diplomatic efforts, since May 2014, hundreds of fishermen have been released by Sri Lankan authorities". Talking about terrorism he said the country has been facing the menace of terrorism for years now however it will no longer be "helpless" in the wake of terror now. "There is a big difference now- India will no longer be helpless in the wake of terror. From 2004 to 2014 there were several terror attacks. The nation expected perpetrators to be punished but nothing happened". "26/11 happened, India expected action against terrorists but nothing happened. Uri happened and you saw what our brave men did. Pulwama happened and you saw what our brave men did. I salute all those who are serving the nation. Their vigilance keeps our nation secure," he said. "There was a time when the news reports would read- Air Force wanted to do surgical strike after 26/11 but UPA blocked it. Today, we are in an era where the news reads- Armed forces have full freedom to do what they want". The prime minister assured that the Influence of terrorists and terrorism has been curtailed and it is going to be curtailed even more. "This is a New India. This is an India that will return the damage done by terrorists with interest".

Proud that Wing Commander is from Tamil Nadu: PM Modi in Kanyakumari

Prime Minister Narendra Modi washed the feet of five safai karamcharis at the Kumbh mela on Sunday. Modi posted a video of the incident on Twitter.&nbsp;

Modi met the safai karamcharis (sweepers) to give them the "Swachh Kumbh, Swachh Aabhaar" award, a recognition of their effort at keeping the Kumbh premises clean — a gargantuan undertaking considering a grand total of some 150 million people are expected to attend the religious gathering this year.&nbsp;

In the video posted by Modi, he is seen approaching the karamcharis.&nbsp;

Modi sits on a low stool — the safai karamcharis are seated in chairs — and begins to wash their feet.&nbsp;

These are "Moments I’ll cherish for my entire life!", Modi said on Twitter while posting the video.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Moments I’ll cherish for my entire life! 
 
Honouring remarkable Safai Karamcharis, who have taken the lead when it comes to realising the dream of a Swachh Bharat! 
 
I salute each and every person making a contribution towards a Swachh Bharat <a href="https://t.co/IsjuCgjlkn">pic.twitter.com/IsjuCgjlkn</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1099646962901622784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Twitter of course has been agog since then:&nbsp;

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I am salute Prime minister Narendra modi . Narendra modi India's most likely prime minister. He was respect safai karmchari
— Pramod Thorat (@PramodT68025074) <a href="https://twitter.com/PramodT68025074/status/1099664054652567552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Salute …… to our PM Narendra Modi who washed to feet of Safai Karmchari at Praygraj to pay gratitude for their whole hearted work at KumbhMela on behalf of whole nation
— INDIA now MODIfied (@sarjukalaria) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarjukalaria/status/1099639722668888065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Do you believe job of a Safai Karmchari is lesser than yours? Modi has achieved big in his sanitation mission. Sanitation workers should be paid well. By the way manual scavenging is banned. Few are still doing it for good money being offered for such job. No compulsion.
— saroj indian (@Saroj_ini) <a href="https://twitter.com/Saroj_ini/status/1099853398717943809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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There has also been criticism:&nbsp;

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दलितों और पिछड़ों को सम्मान भरा रोजगार चाहिए, आपका बाह्मणवाद नहीं। 
Keep your casteism away, Modiji. Give us our land, respect, and jobs! <a href="https://t.co/iU5LdtHgmj">https://t.co/iU5LdtHgmj</a>
— Jignesh Mevani (@jigneshmevani80) <a href="https://twitter.com/jigneshmevani80/status/1099707610423541761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi also presented the safai karamcharis with angvastrams.&nbsp;

In a tweet, he said he prayed for the well-being of 130 crore Indians at the Sangam.

He described all those, who have been involved in ensuring the best of arrangements for the devotees gathering at Prayagraj for the Kumbh, as "real karma-yogis".

In this context, he mentioned the NDRF, the boatmen, the local population, and the sanitation workers as well.

"No one can know the labour they (safai karamcharis) have put in the Kumbh. Cleanliness has been the trademark of this Kumbh," Modi said addressing the Swachh Kumbh, Swachh Aabhaar programme.

"It is my wish that your blessings remain with me and I continue to work for you."

He said no stone was left unturned to make this "Divya Kumbh" and "Bhavya (grand) Kumbh", and this Kumbh will also be remembered as "digital Kumbh"

Modi also performed a Ganga aarti on Sunday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi washed the feet of five safai karamcharis at the Kumbh mela on Sunday. Modi posted a video of the incident on Twitter. Modi met the safai karamcharis (sweepers) to give them the "Swachh Kumbh, Swachh Aabhaar" award, a recognition of their effort at keeping the Kumbh premises clean — a gargantuan undertaking considering a grand total of some 150 million people are expected to attend the religious gathering this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi washed the feet of five safai karamcharis at the Kumbh mela on Sunday. Modi posted a video of the incident on Twitter. Modi met the safai karamcharis (sweepers) to give them the "Swachh Kumbh, Swachh Aabhaar" award, a recognition of their effort at keeping the Kumbh premises clean — a gargantuan undertaking considering a grand total of some 150 million people are expected to attend the religious gathering this year. In the video posted by Modi, he is seen approaching the karamcharis. Modi sits on a low stool — the safai karamcharis are seated in chairs — and begins to wash their feet. These are "Moments I’ll cherish for my entire life!", Modi said on Twitter while posting the video. Moments I’ll cherish for my entire life! Honouring remarkable Safai Karamcharis, who have taken the lead when it comes to realising the dream of a Swachh Bharat! I salute each and every person making a contribution towards a Swachh Bharat pic.twitter.com/IsjuCgjlkn — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2019 × Twitter of course has been agog since then: I am salute Prime minister Narendra modi . Narendra modi India's most likely prime minister. He was respect safai karmchari — Pramod Thorat (@PramodT68025074) February 24, 2019 × Salute …… to our PM Narendra Modi who washed to feet of Safai Karmchari at Praygraj to pay gratitude for their whole hearted work at KumbhMela on behalf of whole nation — INDIA now MODIfied (@sarjukalaria) February 24, 2019 × Do you believe job of a Safai Karmchari is lesser than yours? Modi has achieved big in his sanitation mission. Sanitation workers should be paid well. By the way manual scavenging is banned. Few are still doing it for good money being offered for such job. No compulsion. — saroj indian (@Saroj_ini) February 25, 2019 × There has also been criticism: दलितों और पिछड़ों को सम्मान भरा रोजगार चाहिए, आपका बाह्मणवाद नहीं। Keep your casteism away, Modiji. Give us our land, respect, and jobs! https://t.co/iU5LdtHgmj — Jignesh Mevani (@jigneshmevani80) February 24, 2019 × Modi also presented the safai karamcharis with angvastrams. In a tweet, he said he prayed for the well-being of 130 crore Indians at the Sangam. He described all those, who have been involved in ensuring the best of arrangements for the devotees gathering at Prayagraj for the Kumbh, as "real karma-yogis". In this context, he mentioned the NDRF, the boatmen, the local population, and the sanitation workers as well. "No one can know the labour they (safai karamcharis) have put in the Kumbh. Cleanliness has been the trademark of this Kumbh," Modi said addressing the Swachh Kumbh, Swachh Aabhaar programme. "It is my wish that your blessings remain with me and I continue to work for you." He said no stone was left unturned to make this "Divya Kumbh" and "Bhavya (grand) Kumbh", and this Kumbh will also be remembered as "digital Kumbh" Modi also performed a Ganga aarti on Sunday. (With inputs from PTI)

At Kumbh, Modi washes feet of safai karamcharis; Twitter is agog

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terror and thanked South Korean President Moon Jae-in for his country's support.

While standing alongside President Moon PM Modi said, "I thank President Moon for his support. On counter terror, we will increase cooperation. The world has to move beyond just talks now."

President Moon condemned the Pulwama terror attack. India's Home Ministry and South Korea's national police signed an MoU on "Transnational crimes and police cooperation" to act tough on terror.&nbsp;

PM Modi emphasised economic cooperation and stated, "the South Korean model is the best for India"

India is among the top 10 trade partners of South Korea and the 6th largest export destination for Korean goods. The trade volume between the two nations reached 21.5 billion dollars for the calendar year 2018 with both aiming to achieve&nbsp;$50 billion trade by 2030. Both sides have also fast-tracked the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

The Prime Minister further said, "India's Act East and Korea's new southern policy is strengthening and giving depth to the strategic partnership between the two countries".&nbsp;

PM Modi reiterated India's policy on the inclusivity and centrality of the Indo-Pacific and the ASEAN. The MoUs between India and South Korea were signed in the field of trade and industry, startup, communication.

The Prime Minister started his day by paying his respects at the National Cemetery in Seoul.&nbsp;

On day one, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-receive-seoul-peace-prize-in-south-korea-today-198843">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> addressed South Korean business leaders, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University and interacted with the Indian community in the country.

Addressing the Indian community in the evening, a permanent fixture in his agenda overseas, he talked about economic reforms brought about by his government and how Goods and Service Tax (GST) united the country economically. He said, "India is the brightest spot for investment in the world".

At the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-a-land-of-opportunities-pm-modi-in-south-korea-198728">Prime Minister</a>, in the presence of the South Korean President, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi. Established in 1885, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country.

Speaking at the unveiling event the PM said, "the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi can show the way in dealing with issues like climate change and terror."&nbsp;

PM Modi also addressed&nbsp;South Korean business leaders at the India-Korea Business Symposium and launched the India-Korea Startup Hub.

The Prime Minister also gifted a sapling of holy Bodhi tree to the people of Kimhae through the mayor of Kimhae Heo Seong Gon. Kimhae city has a historic connect with India, it is believed that Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya had gone there in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro and started a dynasty. Princess Suriratna is known as Heo Hwang-ok in South Korea.&nbsp;

The First Lady of South Korea, Kim Jung-Sook, visited Ayodhya in November 2018 to participate in the ground-breaking ceremony of the Queen Suriratna Memorial in the city. Gimhae and Ayodhya have a sister-city relationship.

PM Modi had visited South Korea in May 2015 while South Korean president Moon Jae-in visited&nbsp;India in July 2018.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terror and thanked South Korean President Moon Jae-in for his country's support.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday called on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terror and thanked South Korean President Moon Jae-in for his country's support. While standing alongside President Moon PM Modi said, "I thank President Moon for his support. On counter terror, we will increase cooperation. The world has to move beyond just talks now." President Moon condemned the Pulwama terror attack. India's Home Ministry and South Korea's national police signed an MoU on "Transnational crimes and police cooperation" to act tough on terror. PM Modi emphasised economic cooperation and stated, "the South Korean model is the best for India" India is among the top 10 trade partners of South Korea and the 6th largest export destination for Korean goods. The trade volume between the two nations reached 21.5 billion dollars for the calendar year 2018 with both aiming to achieve $50 billion trade by 2030. Both sides have also fast-tracked the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The Prime Minister further said, "India's Act East and Korea's new southern policy is strengthening and giving depth to the strategic partnership between the two countries". PM Modi reiterated India's policy on the inclusivity and centrality of the Indo-Pacific and the ASEAN. The MoUs between India and South Korea were signed in the field of trade and industry, startup, communication. The Prime Minister started his day by paying his respects at the National Cemetery in Seoul. On day one, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed South Korean business leaders, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University and interacted with the Indian community in the country. Addressing the Indian community in the evening, a permanent fixture in his agenda overseas, he talked about economic reforms brought about by his government and how Goods and Service Tax (GST) united the country economically. He said, "India is the brightest spot for investment in the world". At the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University the Prime Minister, in the presence of the South Korean President, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi. Established in 1885, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country. Speaking at the unveiling event the PM said, "the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi can show the way in dealing with issues like climate change and terror." PM Modi also addressed South Korean business leaders at the India-Korea Business Symposium and launched the India-Korea Startup Hub. The Prime Minister also gifted a sapling of holy Bodhi tree to the people of Kimhae through the mayor of Kimhae Heo Seong Gon. Kimhae city has a historic connect with India, it is believed that Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya had gone there in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro and started a dynasty. Princess Suriratna is known as Heo Hwang-ok in South Korea. The First Lady of South Korea, Kim Jung-Sook, visited Ayodhya in November 2018 to participate in the ground-breaking ceremony of the Queen Suriratna Memorial in the city. Gimhae and Ayodhya have a sister-city relationship. PM Modi had visited South Korea in May 2015 while South Korean president Moon Jae-in visited India in July 2018.

World has to move beyond talks on terror: PM Modi in South Korea

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Wednesday said the prime minister's post has been booked for the next two general elections.&nbsp;

Fadnavis was replying to a question asked by actor Riteish Deshmukh during an award ceremony in Mumbai.

When Deshmukh asked who from Maharashtra, including Sharad Pawar and Nitin Gadkari, can become the prime minister, Fadnavis said, "Let me tell you, this question does not arise, because the post for prime minister has already been booked... Not only for this year's election, but also for the 2024 polls."

"Though, I would be more than happy if someone from Maharashtra becomes the prime minister after that," he added.

To another query that which party, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2019-bjp-to-contest-25-seats-shiv-sena-23-in-alliance-in-maharashtra-198153">Shiv Sena or the BJP</a>, will stake claim for the chief minister's and deputy chief minister's post if both get equal number of seats in this year's Maharashtra assembly elections, Fadnavis said few things need to remain secret.

"Everything cannot be disclosed at this moment," he added.

He also dismissed reports that BJP workers and leaders were not happy with the alliance as the party would contest only 144 seats in the 288-member House.

"Forging an alliance with our old ally Shiv Sena was necessary and this is the political reality in the present situation when all non-natural allies are ganging up to fight against us. Our workers understand this very well and support the alliance," he said.&nbsp;

Appealing to forget the bitterness, Fadnavis said, "Jo beet gai so baat gai' (Let bygone be bygone).

To another query that what cemented the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, Fadnavis said in a lighter vein, "When we arrived at 'Matoshree' (Thackeray's) home, Uddhav's better half served us few homemade dishes that were so delightful that we forgot everything and sealed the deal."

Overcoming their strained ties and grandiose declarations of going solo, the BJP and the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agreed-for-alliance-as-bjps-way-of-treating-allies-has-changed-uddhav-thackeray-198407">Shiv Sena </a>on Monday had announced a seat-sharing pact for the ensuing Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Maharashtra.

BJP president Amit Shah and Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had jointly announced that the BJP will contest 25 seats and Shiv Sena 23 of 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra.

The two parties will contest an equal number of seats, after allotting allies their due share of segments, in polls for the 288-member state Assembly, due this year.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Wednesday said the prime minister's post has been booked for the next two general elections. Fadnavis was replying to a question asked by actor Riteish Deshmukh during an award ceremony in Mumbai.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Wednesday said the prime minister's post has been booked for the next two general elections. Fadnavis was replying to a question asked by actor Riteish Deshmukh during an award ceremony in Mumbai. When Deshmukh asked who from Maharashtra, including Sharad Pawar and Nitin Gadkari, can become the prime minister, Fadnavis said, "Let me tell you, this question does not arise, because the post for prime minister has already been booked... Not only for this year's election, but also for the 2024 polls." "Though, I would be more than happy if someone from Maharashtra becomes the prime minister after that," he added. To another query that which party, the Shiv Sena or the BJP, will stake claim for the chief minister's and deputy chief minister's post if both get equal number of seats in this year's Maharashtra assembly elections, Fadnavis said few things need to remain secret. "Everything cannot be disclosed at this moment," he added. He also dismissed reports that BJP workers and leaders were not happy with the alliance as the party would contest only 144 seats in the 288-member House. "Forging an alliance with our old ally Shiv Sena was necessary and this is the political reality in the present situation when all non-natural allies are ganging up to fight against us. Our workers understand this very well and support the alliance," he said. Appealing to forget the bitterness, Fadnavis said, "Jo beet gai so baat gai' (Let bygone be bygone). To another query that what cemented the alliance between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, Fadnavis said in a lighter vein, "When we arrived at 'Matoshree' (Thackeray's) home, Uddhav's better half served us few homemade dishes that were so delightful that we forgot everything and sealed the deal." Overcoming their strained ties and grandiose declarations of going solo, the BJP and the Shiv Sena on Monday had announced a seat-sharing pact for the ensuing Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Maharashtra. BJP president Amit Shah and Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray had jointly announced that the BJP will contest 25 seats and Shiv Sena 23 of 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. The two parties will contest an equal number of seats, after allotting allies their due share of segments, in polls for the 288-member state Assembly, due this year.

PM's post booked for next two general elections: Devendra Fadnavis

Indian Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-in-south-korea-for-two-days-to-be-honoured-with-seoul-peace-prize-198648">Narendra Modi</a> invited South Korean business leaders to invest in India Wednesday saying the country's "red tape" has been replaced by a "red carpet". He also launched an "India-Korea Startup Hub" which he said will provide a platfrom for South Koreans and Indians to "freely communicate" on.&nbsp;

Modi is on a two-day visit of South Korea.&nbsp;

Speaking at the India-Korea Business Symposium, he said "India is a land of opportunities. India is among top 10 trading partners of South Korea and six largest export destination for Korean goods". Calling "South Korea a role model" and a "natural partner", Modi said "Hyundai, Samsung are trustworthy brands in India".

Indian exports to Korea totalled up to $ 2.91 billion and imports added up $ 8.707 billion between January-July 2017, marking a growth of 26% and 30.1%. Major Korean companies such as Samsung, Hyundai Motors and LG have made major investments in India. &nbsp;

"Fundamentals of our economy are sound and we will become $5 trillion economy in the future," Modi said.&nbsp;

He talked about how under his government, India jumped 50 places in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business rankings and introduced the Goods and Services Tax.

Both countries initiated negotiations to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to enhance bilateral trade between them.&nbsp;

Modi had visited South Korea in May 2015. South Korean President Moon Jae visited India in July 2018. During his visit, he and Modi inaugurated Samsung's new manufacturing facility in Noida — the company's largest manufacturing plant anywhere in the world.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Modi also unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Seoul campus of Yonsei University and in the evening he will interact with the Indian community in the country.&nbsp;

About 11,000 Indian nationals live in South Korea with about 1,000 more pursuing postgraduate and PhD programmes in the country.&nbsp;

He will also gift a sapling of &nbsp;the bodhi tree to the people of Kimhae which has a historic connect with India since Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya had travelled there in 48 CE to marry Korean King Suro. Princess Suriratna is known as Heo Hwang-ok in South Korea. &nbsp;

South Korean First Lady Kim Jung-Sook visited Ayodhya in November 2018 to participate in the ground-breaking ceremony of the Queen Suriratna Memorial in the city.&nbsp;

On Friday, Modi will meet with South Korean President Moon at the Blue House, the official residence of the South Korean president. (After President Moon's election victory in 2017, PM Modi was the fourth international leader to congratulate him.)&nbsp;

On Friday, Modi will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize.&nbsp;

The Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation had in October 2018 announced its decision to award Modi the prize in recognition of his dedication to international cooperation, global growth and human development. Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel and United Nation chiefs Ban ki Moon and Kofi Annan.&nbsp;

Modi's visit to South Korea comes just before North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's meeting with US President Donald Trump. The two will meet for the second US-North Korea summit in Vietnam over February 27 and 28. They two had met last year in Singapore. 
&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited South Korean business leaders to invest in India Wednesday saying the country's "red tape" has been replaced by a "red carpet".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited South Korean business leaders to invest in India Wednesday saying the country's "red tape" has been replaced by a "red carpet". He also launched an "India-Korea Startup Hub" which he said will provide a platfrom for South Koreans and Indians to "freely communicate" on. Modi is on a two-day visit of South Korea. Speaking at the India-Korea Business Symposium, he said "India is a land of opportunities. India is among top 10 trading partners of South Korea and six largest export destination for Korean goods". Calling "South Korea a role model" and a "natural partner", Modi said "Hyundai, Samsung are trustworthy brands in India". Indian exports to Korea totalled up to $ 2.91 billion and imports added up $ 8.707 billion between January-July 2017, marking a growth of 26% and 30.1%. Major Korean companies such as Samsung, Hyundai Motors and LG have made major investments in India. "Fundamentals of our economy are sound and we will become $5 trillion economy in the future," Modi said. He talked about how under his government, India jumped 50 places in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business rankings and introduced the Goods and Services Tax. Both countries initiated negotiations to upgrade the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to enhance bilateral trade between them. Modi had visited South Korea in May 2015. South Korean President Moon Jae visited India in July 2018. During his visit, he and Modi inaugurated Samsung's new manufacturing facility in Noida — the company's largest manufacturing plant anywhere in the world. On Wednesday, Modi also unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Seoul campus of Yonsei University and in the evening he will interact with the Indian community in the country. About 11,000 Indian nationals live in South Korea with about 1,000 more pursuing postgraduate and PhD programmes in the country. He will also gift a sapling of the bodhi tree to the people of Kimhae which has a historic connect with India since Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya had travelled there in 48 CE to marry Korean King Suro. Princess Suriratna is known as Heo Hwang-ok in South Korea. South Korean First Lady Kim Jung-Sook visited Ayodhya in November 2018 to participate in the ground-breaking ceremony of the Queen Suriratna Memorial in the city. On Friday, Modi will meet with South Korean President Moon at the Blue House, the official residence of the South Korean president. (After President Moon's election victory in 2017, PM Modi was the fourth international leader to congratulate him.) On Friday, Modi will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize. The Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation had in October 2018 announced its decision to award Modi the prize in recognition of his dedication to international cooperation, global growth and human development. Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel and United Nation chiefs Ban ki Moon and Kofi Annan. Modi's visit to South Korea comes just before North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's meeting with US President Donald Trump. The two will meet for the second US-North Korea summit in Vietnam over February 27 and 28. They two had met last year in Singapore.

'India is a land of opportunities,' PM Modi says in South Korea

BJP's association with the Shiv Sena goes beyond politics and is bound by a desire to see a strong India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday after the two parties agreed to contest the Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections together.

He said the decision to contest together strengthens the NDA significantly.

"I am sure our alliance is going to be Maharashtra's first and only choice," the PM tweeted.

"Inspired by the vision of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bal Thackeray, BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will continue working for the well-being of Maharashtra and ensuring the state once again elects representatives who are development oriented, non-corrupt and proud of India's cultural ethos," he wrote.

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Inspired by the vision of Atal Ji and Balasaheb Thackeray Ji, BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will continue working for the well-being of Maharashtra and ensuring the state once again elects representatives who are development oriented, non corrupt and proud of India’s cultural ethos.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1097518253751132162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He also said the BJP's association with the Shiv Sena goes beyond politics.

"We are bound by a desire to see a strong and developed India," Modi said.

Ruling allies BJP and Shiv Sena, whose relations have been strained for quite some time, Monday announced a tie-up for the coming Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections.

The BJP will contest 25 seats and Shiv Sena 23 of 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra.

The two parties will contest an equal number of seats, along with their other allies, in elections for the 288-member state Assembly, due this year.

BJP's association with the Shiv Sena goes beyond politics and is bound by a desire to see a strong India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday after the two parties agreed to contest the Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections together.

BJP's association with the Shiv Sena goes beyond politics and is bound by a desire to see a strong India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday after the two parties agreed to contest the Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections together. He said the decision to contest together strengthens the NDA significantly. "I am sure our alliance is going to be Maharashtra's first and only choice," the PM tweeted. "Inspired by the vision of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bal Thackeray, BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will continue working for the well-being of Maharashtra and ensuring the state once again elects representatives who are development oriented, non-corrupt and proud of India's cultural ethos," he wrote. Inspired by the vision of Atal Ji and Balasaheb Thackeray Ji, BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will continue working for the well-being of Maharashtra and ensuring the state once again elects representatives who are development oriented, non corrupt and proud of India’s cultural ethos. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 18, 2019 × He also said the BJP's association with the Shiv Sena goes beyond politics. "We are bound by a desire to see a strong and developed India," Modi said. Ruling allies BJP and Shiv Sena, whose relations have been strained for quite some time, Monday announced a tie-up for the coming Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections. The BJP will contest 25 seats and Shiv Sena 23 of 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra. The two parties will contest an equal number of seats, along with their other allies, in elections for the 288-member state Assembly, due this year.

Inspired by vision of Atal ji and Balasaheb: PM Modi on alliance with Shiv Sena

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-has-made-indias-unipolar-politics-bipolar-says-union-minister-rajnath-singh-196285">Union Minister Rajnath Singh </a>on Monday denounced Congress president Rahul Gandhi's persistent 'chowkidar chor hai'&nbsp;jibe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and coined a rhyming slogan in his defence.

While addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad, Singh said that the Prime Minister is not a "chor" (thief) but "pure and that he is the only "cure" for country.

Addressing a gathering here, he said, “Main kehna chahta hoon chowkidaar chor nahi hai, balki hamara chowkidaar pure hai. Agli baar usko PM banna sure hai, aur yahi Bharat ki samasyaon ka cure hai.” (I want to say that our ‘chowkidaar’ is not a thief but is an honest man. He will be the PM for the next time for sure and that is the cure for all problems in India.)

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-committed-to-complete-nrc-within-stipulated-time-rajnath-singh-195425">Singh</a>’s remark comes after Gandhi on Monday continued his "chowkidar chor hai" barb, in a veiled reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that his party would not sit idle until a government based on Congress ideology is formed in Uttar Pradesh.

Attacking the Prime Minister, Rahul said, "The country's 'chowkidar'&nbsp;looted the people of Uttar Pradesh, the Air Force and others in the country. Chowkidar chor hai!"&nbsp;

Union Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday denounced Congress president Rahul Gandhi's persistent 'chowkidar chor hai' jibe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and coined a rhyming slogan in his defence.

Union Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday denounced Congress president Rahul Gandhi's persistent 'chowkidar chor hai' jibe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and coined a rhyming slogan in his defence. While addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Moradabad, Singh said that the Prime Minister is not a "chor" (thief) but "pure and that he is the only "cure" for country. Addressing a gathering here, he said, “Main kehna chahta hoon chowkidaar chor nahi hai, balki hamara chowkidaar pure hai. Agli baar usko PM banna sure hai, aur yahi Bharat ki samasyaon ka cure hai.” (I want to say that our ‘chowkidaar’ is not a thief but is an honest man. He will be the PM for the next time for sure and that is the cure for all problems in India.) Singh’s remark comes after Gandhi on Monday continued his "chowkidar chor hai" barb, in a veiled reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying that his party would not sit idle until a government based on Congress ideology is formed in Uttar Pradesh. Attacking the Prime Minister, Rahul said, "The country's 'chowkidar' looted the people of Uttar Pradesh, the Air Force and others in the country. Chowkidar chor hai!"

Chowkidar is pure, will become PM for sure: Rajnath Singh

Notwithstanding the controversy, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-table-cag-report-on-rafale-deal-in-parliament-tuesday-196795">the Rafale fighter jet </a>procurement process is on schedule and the first aircraft will be delivered to India in September this year, said an Indian Air Force (IAF) official on Tuesday.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-modi-government-followed-upas-policy-on-inter-governmental-agreements-196598">delivery of the aircraft </a>is slated to take place in France and would be brought to India, the official added.

Earlier in the day, IAF's Deputy Chief Air Marshal VS Chaudhari said that no sovereign guarantees were given by the Russians in the S-400 air missile system deal.

Later while briefing on the Vayu Shakti exercise, IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal Anil Khosla said, “Rafale induction into the Air Force will give a big boost to our combat capabilities”.

Sharing details of the ongoing exercise, he added: “LCA, Akash missile defence systems, ALH Dhruv and Airborne Early Warning and Control System Aircraft to represent the indigenous aircraft capability in the exercise”.

Meanwhile, Congress president Rahul Gandhi today used a fresh media report to allege that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had acted as a “middleman” for industrialist Anil Ambani in the Rafale fighter deal and accused him of violating the Official Secrets Act (OSA) and indulging in “treason” for which “action must be initiated”. However, Ambani has repeatedly refuted all allegations and have termed them baseless.

Earlier on February 11, Air Marshal SBP Sinha who headed Rafale negotiations on behalf of India said that the anti-corruption clause in the Rafale deal was not there in the earlier government to government contracts signed with America and Russia.

The UPA government in 2013 had come up with a new policy which allowed the Defence Ministry not to follow the laid down rules and sign inter-governmental agreements with friendly foreign countries as per mutually agreed provisions between both sides.

Notwithstanding the controversy, the Rafale fighter jet procurement process is on schedule and the first aircraft will be delivered to India in September this year, said an Indian Air Force (IAF) official on Tuesday.

Notwithstanding the controversy, the Rafale fighter jet procurement process is on schedule and the first aircraft will be delivered to India in September this year, said an Indian Air Force (IAF) official on Tuesday. The delivery of the aircraft is slated to take place in France and would be brought to India, the official added. Earlier in the day, IAF's Deputy Chief Air Marshal VS Chaudhari said that no sovereign guarantees were given by the Russians in the S-400 air missile system deal. Later while briefing on the Vayu Shakti exercise, IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal Anil Khosla said, “Rafale induction into the Air Force will give a big boost to our combat capabilities”. Sharing details of the ongoing exercise, he added: “LCA, Akash missile defence systems, ALH Dhruv and Airborne Early Warning and Control System Aircraft to represent the indigenous aircraft capability in the exercise”. Meanwhile, Congress president Rahul Gandhi today used a fresh media report to allege that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had acted as a “middleman” for industrialist Anil Ambani in the Rafale fighter deal and accused him of violating the Official Secrets Act (OSA) and indulging in “treason” for which “action must be initiated”. However, Ambani has repeatedly refuted all allegations and have termed them baseless. Earlier on February 11, Air Marshal SBP Sinha who headed Rafale negotiations on behalf of India said that the anti-corruption clause in the Rafale deal was not there in the earlier government to government contracts signed with America and Russia. The UPA government in 2013 had come up with a new policy which allowed the Defence Ministry not to follow the laid down rules and sign inter-governmental agreements with friendly foreign countries as per mutually agreed provisions between both sides.

First Rafale aircraft set to be delivered in September in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the loss of lives in a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-9-dead-as-fire-breaks-out-in-karol-baghs-hotel-196800"> massive fire incident</a> in a central <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karol-bagh-fire-delhi-government-cancels-fourth-anniversary-celebrations-announces-5-lakh-compensation-196894">Delhi</a> hotel early Tuesday.

"Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a fire at Karol Bagh in Delhi. I convey my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives," he tweeted.

He wished for speedy recovery of the injured.

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Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a fire at Karol Bagh in Delhi. 
 
I convey my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. 
 
May the injured recover soon: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1095197717851078657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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At least 17 people were killed in the fire at Arpit Palace Hotel on Gurudwara Road in Karol Bagh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the loss of lives in a massive fire incident in a central Delhi hotel early Tuesday. "Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a fire at Karol Bagh in Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the loss of lives in a massive fire incident in a central Delhi hotel early Tuesday. "Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a fire at Karol Bagh in Delhi. I convey my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives," he tweeted. He wished for speedy recovery of the injured. Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a fire at Karol Bagh in Delhi. I convey my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. May the injured recover soon: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 12, 2019 × At least 17 people were killed in the fire at Arpit Palace Hotel on Gurudwara Road in Karol Bagh.

PM Modi condoles loss of lives in Delhi hotel fire

At a time when the Narendra Modi government is under attack over the Rafale deal, it is emerging that the policy for signing inter-governmental agreements without "classically" following the Standard Operating Procedure or Standard Contract Document was laid down by the previous Congress-led UPA government in 2013.

The Indian negotiating team, which firmed up the deal for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft from French company Dassault through an inter-governmental agreement, followed that policy of the UPA government, top official sources said in Delhi on Monday.

In 2013, the UPA government came up with a new policy which allows the Defence Ministry to not follow the laid down rules and sign inter-governmental agreements with friendly foreign countries as per mutually agreed provisions between both sides.

"There may be occasions when procurements would have to be done from friendly foreign countries which may be necessitated due to geo-strategic advantages that are likely to accrue to our country. Such procurements would not classically follow the Standard Procurement Procedure and the Standard Contract Document but would be based on mutually agreed provisions by the Governments of both the countries. Such procurements will be done based on an Inter-Governmental Agreement after clearance from CFA (Competent Financial Authority)," the para 71 of the Defence Procurement Procedure, 2013 clarifies.

The sources said the Indian Negotiation Team in the Rafale deal had relied on these provisions of the DPP-2013 while finalising the contract for the combat aircraft.

The DPP-2013 came into force in 2013 when the UPA government was in power and AK Antony was the Defence Minister.

Media reports have targeted the NDA government for deviating from the standard clauses in the defence procurement procedure while signing the Rafale deal including the anti-corruption clauses that are applied to private contractors.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At a time when the Narendra Modi government is under attack over the Rafale deal, it is emerging that the policy for signing inter-governmental agreements without "classically" following the Standard Operating Procedure or Standard Contract Document was laid down by the previous Congress-led UPA government in 2013.

At a time when the Narendra Modi government is under attack over the Rafale deal, it is emerging that the policy for signing inter-governmental agreements without "classically" following the Standard Operating Procedure or Standard Contract Document was laid down by the previous Congress-led UPA government in 2013. The Indian negotiating team, which firmed up the deal for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft from French company Dassault through an inter-governmental agreement, followed that policy of the UPA government, top official sources said in Delhi on Monday. In 2013, the UPA government came up with a new policy which allows the Defence Ministry to not follow the laid down rules and sign inter-governmental agreements with friendly foreign countries as per mutually agreed provisions between both sides. "There may be occasions when procurements would have to be done from friendly foreign countries which may be necessitated due to geo-strategic advantages that are likely to accrue to our country. Such procurements would not classically follow the Standard Procurement Procedure and the Standard Contract Document but would be based on mutually agreed provisions by the Governments of both the countries. Such procurements will be done based on an Inter-Governmental Agreement after clearance from CFA (Competent Financial Authority)," the para 71 of the Defence Procurement Procedure, 2013 clarifies. The sources said the Indian Negotiation Team in the Rafale deal had relied on these provisions of the DPP-2013 while finalising the contract for the combat aircraft. The DPP-2013 came into force in 2013 when the UPA government was in power and AK Antony was the Defence Minister. Media reports have targeted the NDA government for deviating from the standard clauses in the defence procurement procedure while signing the Rafale deal including the anti-corruption clauses that are applied to private contractors.

Modi government followed UPA's policy on inter-governmental agreements: Official sources on Rafale deal

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