Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched into a tirade against the BJP-led central government, alleging Prime Minister Narendra Modi was not following 'raj dharma' by denying the state special status.&nbsp;

Naidu, who began a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-chandrababu-naidu-to-sit-on-hunger-strike-demanding-special-status-for-andhra-pradesh-196485">day-long fast at the Andhra Bhavan in Delhi</a> demanding that the Centre fulfil all promises made during AP's bifurcation in 2014, warned that Modi would be given a befitting answer if he made personal attacks against the people of his state.&nbsp;

"(Former PM) Atal Bihari Vajpayee said 'raj dharma' was not followed in Gujarat (during the 2002 riots). Now, 'raj dharma' is not being followed in the case of Andhra Pradesh. We have been denied what is rightfully ours," Naidu said.&nbsp;

He alleged the central government did grave injustice to Andhra and it would have "repercussions on national unity".&nbsp;

"On behalf of five crore people, I'm warning this government... I came here to remind you of the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act," Naidu said.&nbsp;

"I am warning you. Don't make personal attacks against me and my people. It's unwarranted. I am just doing my duty as the head of my state. We are only demanding what we were promised," he said, adding if somebody "attacks our self respect, we will not tolerate it".&nbsp;

The TDP chief said the party was denied permission to stage a protest in Parliament premises. "So, we came here".&nbsp;

A number of opposition party leaders, including Congress president Rahul Gandhi, National Conference's Farooq Abdullah and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, are expected to extend their support to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief's fast.&nbsp;

Before beginning the fast, Naidu offered tributes to Matama Gandhi at Raj Ghat and to B R Ambedkar at Andhra Pradesh Bhavan.&nbsp;

A TDP delegation led by Naidu will submit a memorandum to President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday, party sources said.&nbsp;

Naidu has been trying to unite opposition parties to take on the BJP in the general elections. Over the last three months, he has held a number of meetings with opposition party leaders on forming an anti-BJP front.&nbsp;

The TDP had in March last year pulled out of the NDA government over its refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

The party has been accusing the Modi government of not releasing enough funds for the Polavaram irrigation project, the Kadapa steel plant and Amravati, the under-construction ultra-modern state capital.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched into a tirade against the BJP-led central government, alleging Prime Minister Narendra Modi was not following 'raj dharma' by denying the state special status.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched into a tirade against the BJP-led central government, alleging Prime Minister Narendra Modi was not following 'raj dharma' by denying the state special status. Naidu, who began a day-long fast at the Andhra Bhavan in Delhi demanding that the Centre fulfil all promises made during AP's bifurcation in 2014, warned that Modi would be given a befitting answer if he made personal attacks against the people of his state. "(Former PM) Atal Bihari Vajpayee said 'raj dharma' was not followed in Gujarat (during the 2002 riots). Now, 'raj dharma' is not being followed in the case of Andhra Pradesh. We have been denied what is rightfully ours," Naidu said. He alleged the central government did grave injustice to Andhra and it would have "repercussions on national unity". "On behalf of five crore people, I'm warning this government... I came here to remind you of the promises made in the AP Reorganisation Act," Naidu said. "I am warning you. Don't make personal attacks against me and my people. It's unwarranted. I am just doing my duty as the head of my state. We are only demanding what we were promised," he said, adding if somebody "attacks our self respect, we will not tolerate it". The TDP chief said the party was denied permission to stage a protest in Parliament premises. "So, we came here". A number of opposition party leaders, including Congress president Rahul Gandhi, National Conference's Farooq Abdullah and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, are expected to extend their support to the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief's fast. Before beginning the fast, Naidu offered tributes to Matama Gandhi at Raj Ghat and to B R Ambedkar at Andhra Pradesh Bhavan. A TDP delegation led by Naidu will submit a memorandum to President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday, party sources said. Naidu has been trying to unite opposition parties to take on the BJP in the general elections. Over the last three months, he has held a number of meetings with opposition party leaders on forming an anti-BJP front. The TDP had in March last year pulled out of the NDA government over its refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh. The party has been accusing the Modi government of not releasing enough funds for the Polavaram irrigation project, the Kadapa steel plant and Amravati, the under-construction ultra-modern state capital.

Modi did not follow raj dharma in Andhra Pradesh's case: Chandrababu Naidu

With an eye on 25 Lok Sabha seats at stake in the northeast region with 14 seats in Assam alone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday not only reiterated his government’s resolve to address the problem of illegal migrants, but also showcased how his four and a half years’ rule at the Centre has accelerated the pace of development across all the eight states.

Prime Minister Modi, who addressed three mega-public-meetings in Guwahati, Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh and Agartala in Tripura after inaugurating a number of development projects and laying the foundation for many others in three states, slammed the previous regime at the Centre for ignoring the development of the northeast region.

At Agartala, he said, “Workers in the unorganised sector were merely used by the previous governments for their vote bank politics. We introduced Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan scheme which will provide an assured monthly pension of Rs 3,000 from the age of 60 years to the workers.”

“All the partners of the 'Mahamilawatwalas’ (opposition parties) have learned that the youth of the country, the poor of the country, the farmers of the country have their own ambitions. The job of the ‘Mahamilawatwalas’ is only to heap abuses and more abuses on me. It is as if an Olympic game is on to deride Modi,” he said.

The BJP had won eight Lok Sabha seats from the region during the last Lok Sabha polls in 2014 out of which seven were from Assam, and one from Arunachal Pradesh—Kiren Rijiju, who is Union Minister of State for Home Affairs.&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah has set the target of winning 21 seats out of 25 in the coming Lok Sabha polls in the region—Assam, Tripura, Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Nagaland.

In a bid to woo the tribal community of Tripura, Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said that his government has not only taken steps to strengthen the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) but would further ensure its self-reliance and adequate staff strength.

“Our government at the Centre has taken a step forward to fulfill the long-pending demand of strengthening the autonomous council (TTAADC). With the amendment in the law, we not only wish to make the council self-dependent but also want to increase the number of officers in the council,” he said after inaugurating Garjee-Belonia railway line.

Talking about development projects in the state, he said, “For the first time in Tripura, paddy was procured as per the minimum support price (MSP). Besides this, the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission were also implemented.”

He said the infrastructure projects inaugurated on Saturday in the state were a reflection of the HIRA model.

“I talked about the HIRA—Highway, I-way, Railway, Airway—model when I visited the state last time during the Assembly elections. All the infrastructure projects inaugurated today are a reflection of the HIRA model.”

In Guwahati, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-is-committed-to-implementing-assam-accord-pm-modi-196215">he promised to implement not only the Assam Accord</a>, which seeks identification and deportation of illegal migrants, but also to ensure the state becomes a hub of oil and natural gas.

Prime Minister Modi, who was speaking after laying the foundation stone for the north-east gas grid, said, “Thirty-six years have passed but the Assam Accord has not been implemented yet and only Modi-led government would fulfill this task.”

Reiterating his government’s resolve to ensure all-round development of northeast region (NER), he said, “Today is a new chapter in the history of the northeast and the fast-paced development of this region has been a top priority for my government.”

“Assam is on the path to progress. Our dedication to the northeast has been proven in the interim budget as allocation to the northeast region has been increased by more than 21 per cent,” he said, assuring the people to protect their culture, resources, and languages.

On the Citizenship Bill, PM Modi urged the people not be carried away by the rumours. He urged the political parties to stop playing with the emotions of the people of Assam for political gain and vote bank.&nbsp;

“Assam will not be harmed through the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill,” he said.

“We have inked Chitmahal agreement and are working towards completely sealing India-Bangladesh border,” he said, adding that his party was committed to freeing the country from infiltrators.&nbsp;

“The National Register of Citizens (NRC) was not being implemented earlier. Now our government is working under the supervision of the Supreme Court to implement the NRC,” he said.

The Assam Accord, a memorandum of settlement (MoS) signed between representatives of the Central government led by then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and the leaders of the Assam Movement in New Delhi on 15 August 1985. The core point of the accord was the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants from Assam, for which the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) had been protesting since 1979.

Prime Minister also inaugurated Hollong modular gas processing plant in Tinsukia which will deliver 15 per cent of the total gas produced in Assam. He also inaugurated LPG capacity augmentation of mounted storage vessel in north Guwahati.

The foundation stone of NRL biorefinery at Numaligarh and a 729-km gas pipeline from Barauni-Guwahati passing through Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Assam was also laid by Prime Minister Modi on this occasion.

He said, “Numaligarh will be the largest among 12 biorefineries to be built across India. These facilities will transform Assam into oil and natural gas hub and boost India’s economy.”&nbsp;

“In the last four-and-half years, projects worth Rs 14,000 crore have been completed in the oil and gas sector alone in Assam,” he said.

He also laid the foundation stone of City Gas Distribution Networks in Kamrup, Cacher, Hailakandi, and Karimganj districts. He said, “In 2014 there were around 25 lakh PNG connections which have now touched the mark of 46 lakh in just four years. The number of CNG refueling stations also increased from 950 to 1,500 during this period.”

In Itanagar, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for Greenfield Airport and Sela Tunnel. He also launched DD Arun Prabha Channel and unveiled several other development projects in the state from IG Park, Itanagar. Modi also inspected Loin Loom operations there.

Speaking on the occasion, he said, “Arunachal is the land of rising sun. It is the confidence of the country. Today I got an opportunity to unveil projects worth more than Rs 4,000 crore. Additional projects worth Rs 13,000 crore are in progress in the state.”

Criticising the previous regime for neglecting the region, Prime Minister Modi said, “Previous government neglected Arunachal Pradesh. We are here to change that. New India can only be built when north-east India is developed. Development is for uniting the regions and people.”&nbsp;

“Our government has allocated Rs 44,000 crore to Arunachal Pradesh, which is double of the amount provided by the previous governments.”&nbsp;

With an eye on 25 Lok Sabha seats at stake in the northeast region with 14 seats in Assam alone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday not only reiterated his government’s resolve to address the problem of illegal migrants, but also showcased how his four and a half years’ rule at the Centre has accelerated the pace of development across all the eight states.

With an eye on 25 Lok Sabha seats at stake in the northeast region with 14 seats in Assam alone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday not only reiterated his government’s resolve to address the problem of illegal migrants, but also showcased how his four and a half years’ rule at the Centre has accelerated the pace of development across all the eight states. Prime Minister Modi, who addressed three mega-public-meetings in Guwahati, Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh and Agartala in Tripura after inaugurating a number of development projects and laying the foundation for many others in three states, slammed the previous regime at the Centre for ignoring the development of the northeast region. At Agartala, he said, “Workers in the unorganised sector were merely used by the previous governments for their vote bank politics. We introduced Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan scheme which will provide an assured monthly pension of Rs 3,000 from the age of 60 years to the workers.” “All the partners of the 'Mahamilawatwalas’ (opposition parties) have learned that the youth of the country, the poor of the country, the farmers of the country have their own ambitions. The job of the ‘Mahamilawatwalas’ is only to heap abuses and more abuses on me. It is as if an Olympic game is on to deride Modi,” he said. The BJP had won eight Lok Sabha seats from the region during the last Lok Sabha polls in 2014 out of which seven were from Assam, and one from Arunachal Pradesh—Kiren Rijiju, who is Union Minister of State for Home Affairs. BJP president Amit Shah has set the target of winning 21 seats out of 25 in the coming Lok Sabha polls in the region—Assam, Tripura, Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Sikkim, and Nagaland. In a bid to woo the tribal community of Tripura, Prime Minister Modi on Saturday said that his government has not only taken steps to strengthen the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) but would further ensure its self-reliance and adequate staff strength. “Our government at the Centre has taken a step forward to fulfill the long-pending demand of strengthening the autonomous council (TTAADC). With the amendment in the law, we not only wish to make the council self-dependent but also want to increase the number of officers in the council,” he said after inaugurating Garjee-Belonia railway line. Talking about development projects in the state, he said, “For the first time in Tripura, paddy was procured as per the minimum support price (MSP). Besides this, the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission were also implemented.” He said the infrastructure projects inaugurated on Saturday in the state were a reflection of the HIRA model. “I talked about the HIRA—Highway, I-way, Railway, Airway—model when I visited the state last time during the Assembly elections. All the infrastructure projects inaugurated today are a reflection of the HIRA model.” In Guwahati, he promised to implement not only the Assam Accord, which seeks identification and deportation of illegal migrants, but also to ensure the state becomes a hub of oil and natural gas. Prime Minister Modi, who was speaking after laying the foundation stone for the north-east gas grid, said, “Thirty-six years have passed but the Assam Accord has not been implemented yet and only Modi-led government would fulfill this task.” Reiterating his government’s resolve to ensure all-round development of northeast region (NER), he said, “Today is a new chapter in the history of the northeast and the fast-paced development of this region has been a top priority for my government.” “Assam is on the path to progress. Our dedication to the northeast has been proven in the interim budget as allocation to the northeast region has been increased by more than 21 per cent,” he said, assuring the people to protect their culture, resources, and languages. On the Citizenship Bill, PM Modi urged the people not be carried away by the rumours. He urged the political parties to stop playing with the emotions of the people of Assam for political gain and vote bank. “Assam will not be harmed through the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill,” he said. “We have inked Chitmahal agreement and are working towards completely sealing India-Bangladesh border,” he said, adding that his party was committed to freeing the country from infiltrators. “The National Register of Citizens (NRC) was not being implemented earlier. Now our government is working under the supervision of the Supreme Court to implement the NRC,” he said. The Assam Accord, a memorandum of settlement (MoS) signed between representatives of the Central government led by then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and the leaders of the Assam Movement in New Delhi on 15 August 1985. The core point of the accord was the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants from Assam, for which the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) had been protesting since 1979. Prime Minister also inaugurated Hollong modular gas processing plant in Tinsukia which will deliver 15 per cent of the total gas produced in Assam. He also inaugurated LPG capacity augmentation of mounted storage vessel in north Guwahati. The foundation stone of NRL biorefinery at Numaligarh and a 729-km gas pipeline from Barauni-Guwahati passing through Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Assam was also laid by Prime Minister Modi on this occasion. He said, “Numaligarh will be the largest among 12 biorefineries to be built across India. These facilities will transform Assam into oil and natural gas hub and boost India’s economy.” “In the last four-and-half years, projects worth Rs 14,000 crore have been completed in the oil and gas sector alone in Assam,” he said. He also laid the foundation stone of City Gas Distribution Networks in Kamrup, Cacher, Hailakandi, and Karimganj districts. He said, “In 2014 there were around 25 lakh PNG connections which have now touched the mark of 46 lakh in just four years. The number of CNG refueling stations also increased from 950 to 1,500 during this period.” In Itanagar, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for Greenfield Airport and Sela Tunnel. He also launched DD Arun Prabha Channel and unveiled several other development projects in the state from IG Park, Itanagar. Modi also inspected Loin Loom operations there. Speaking on the occasion, he said, “Arunachal is the land of rising sun. It is the confidence of the country. Today I got an opportunity to unveil projects worth more than Rs 4,000 crore. Additional projects worth Rs 13,000 crore are in progress in the state.” Criticising the previous regime for neglecting the region, Prime Minister Modi said, “Previous government neglected Arunachal Pradesh. We are here to change that. New India can only be built when north-east India is developed. Development is for uniting the regions and people.” “Our government has allocated Rs 44,000 crore to Arunachal Pradesh, which is double of the amount provided by the previous governments.”

PM Modi pins hope on development works, Assam Accord to win electoral battle in north west

Union Minister for Home Affairs Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the BJP has made India’s politics bipolar which used to be unipolar earlier, while terming Janata Dal-United (JDU) as a natural ally of his party in Bihar.

“The Congress used to rule the roost in the country. It brought the culture of unipolar politics. Leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the BJP were able to transform India’s unipolar politics into bipolar,” he said while speaking at the BJP’s ‘Bharat Ke Mann Ki Baat Modi Ke Saath’ campaign in Bihar ahead of the general&nbsp;elections.

Praising Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his deputy Sushil Kumar Modi for their dedication towards the state’s development, Singh said, “JDU is a natural ally of the BJP. The state’s gross domestic product (GDP) has witnessed 10 per cent growth. Bihar has become a revenue surplus state.”

Hailing the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in strengthening India’s economy, Singh said that no one can deny the fact that the country’s economy has experienced immense growth under his leadership in the past four and a half years.

Attacking Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his remarks that Bihar, which used to be a centre of knowledge, has now become a centre of poverty, Singh said, “The Congress president should think twice before speaking. He should know that Bihar is the land of Lord Buddha. This state has given us several great scholars and leaders.”

Talking about high profile corruption cases, Singh said, “Whether Vijay Mallya or Nirav Modi, we will bring every loan defaulter back to India. Our efforts have set the ball rolling for the extradition of Vijay Mallya.”

Singh, while talking about the way Indian forces are now tackling terrorism and Naxalism, said, “Our forces are very well countering them. I have given orders to our soldiers that if Pakistan indulges in cross border firing, then they must retaliate strongly.”&nbsp;

Union Minister for Home Affairs Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the BJP has made India’s politics bipolar which used to be unipolar earlier, while terming Janata Dal-United (JDU) as a natural ally of his party in Bihar.

Union Minister for Home Affairs Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the BJP has made India’s politics bipolar which used to be unipolar earlier, while terming Janata Dal-United (JDU) as a natural ally of his party in Bihar. “The Congress used to rule the roost in the country. It brought the culture of unipolar politics. Leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the BJP were able to transform India’s unipolar politics into bipolar,” he said while speaking at the BJP’s ‘Bharat Ke Mann Ki Baat Modi Ke Saath’ campaign in Bihar ahead of the general elections. Praising Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his deputy Sushil Kumar Modi for their dedication towards the state’s development, Singh said, “JDU is a natural ally of the BJP. The state’s gross domestic product (GDP) has witnessed 10 per cent growth. Bihar has become a revenue surplus state.” Hailing the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in strengthening India’s economy, Singh said that no one can deny the fact that the country’s economy has experienced immense growth under his leadership in the past four and a half years. Attacking Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his remarks that Bihar, which used to be a centre of knowledge, has now become a centre of poverty, Singh said, “The Congress president should think twice before speaking. He should know that Bihar is the land of Lord Buddha. This state has given us several great scholars and leaders.” Talking about high profile corruption cases, Singh said, “Whether Vijay Mallya or Nirav Modi, we will bring every loan defaulter back to India. Our efforts have set the ball rolling for the extradition of Vijay Mallya.” Singh, while talking about the way Indian forces are now tackling terrorism and Naxalism, said, “Our forces are very well countering them. I have given orders to our soldiers that if Pakistan indulges in cross border firing, then they must retaliate strongly.”

BJP has made India's unipolar politics bipolar: Rajnath Singh

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-arunachal-visit-irks-china-new-delhi-slams-beijing-saying-the-northeastern-state-is-integral-inalienable-to-india-196228">Arunachal Pradesh is integral, inalienable to India: New Delhi slams Beijing's comments on PM Modi's visit to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-arunachal-visit-irks-china-new-delhi-slams-beijing-saying-the-northeastern-state-is-integral-inalienable-to-india-196228">state</a>

India on Saturday slammed China for its comment on&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, reiterating that the "state of Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-trade-talks-resume-next-week-focus-on-intellectual-property-196249">US-China trade talks resume next week, focus on intellectual property</a>

US&nbsp;negotiators are preparing to press China next week on longstanding demands that it reform how it treats American companies' intellectual property in order to seal a trade deal that could prevent tariffs from rising on Chinese imports.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/twitter-ceo-and-senior-officials-refuse-to-appear-before-parliamentary-committee-196223">Twitter CEO and senior officials refuse to appear before Parliamentary Committee</a>

Twitter CEO and senior officials of the company have refused to appear before the Parliamentary Committee on Information Technology on February 11, citing “short notice” of the hearing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-arunachal-visit-irks-china-new-delhi-slams-beijing-saying-the-northeastern-state-is-integral-inalienable-to-india-196228">Arunachal Pradesh is integral, inalienable to India: New Delhi slams Beijing's comments on PM Modi's visit to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-arunachal-visit-irks-china-new-delhi-slams-beijing-saying-the-northeastern-state-is-integral-inalienable-to-india-196228">state</a>

India on Saturday slammed China for its comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, reiterating that the "state of Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-returns-to-india-after-medical-treatment-from-us-says-delighted-to-be-back-home-196245">Delighted to be back home: Jaitley returns to India after medical treatment in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-returns-to-india-after-medical-treatment-from-us-says-delighted-to-be-back-home-196245">US</a>

BJP leader Arun Jaitley, who had been undergoing medical treatment in the United States, returned to India on Saturday. Upon his return, the minister tweeted, "Delighted to be back home".

Arunachal Pradesh is integral, inalienable to India: New Delhi slams Beijing's comments on PM Modi's visit to state India on Saturday slammed China for its comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, reiterating that the "state of Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India".

Arunachal Pradesh is integral, inalienable to India: New Delhi slams Beijing's comments on PM Modi's visit to state India on Saturday slammed China for its comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, reiterating that the "state of Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India". US-China trade talks resume next week, focus on intellectual property US negotiators are preparing to press China next week on longstanding demands that it reform how it treats American companies' intellectual property in order to seal a trade deal that could prevent tariffs from rising on Chinese imports. Twitter CEO and senior officials refuse to appear before Parliamentary Committee Twitter CEO and senior officials of the company have refused to appear before the Parliamentary Committee on Information Technology on February 11, citing “short notice” of the hearing. Arunachal Pradesh is integral, inalienable to India: New Delhi slams Beijing's comments on PM Modi's visit to state India on Saturday slammed China for its comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, reiterating that the "state of Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India". Delighted to be back home: Jaitley returns to India after medical treatment in US BJP leader Arun Jaitley, who had been undergoing medical treatment in the United States, returned to India on Saturday. Upon his return, the minister tweeted, "Delighted to be back home".

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday launched a scathing attack on the Mamata Banerjee government, claiming it had defamed the soil of West Bengal and rendered its people helpless.

Addressing a well-attended BJP rally in North Bengal's Jalpaiguri district, Modi said it was an "extortionist syndicate" and not 'Didi', as Banerjee is fondly called, that was running the state.

"Those who got power in Bengal in the name of 'Maa, Maati, Manush' after unseating the Left have also adopted the culture of violence. They have defamed the soil of Bengal and rendered its people helpless," Modi said attacking TMC government.

Assailing Banerjee for the sit-in she staged against the attempted questioning of Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar by the CBI in the Saradha chit fund scam case, the prime minister said it was for the first time that a chief minister had staged a dharna to protect the fraudsters who looted lakhs of poor people.

"This chowkidar will spare neither the perpetrators of chit fund scams nor those protecting them," he asserted.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday launched a scathing attack on the Mamata Banerjee government, claiming it had defamed the soil of West Bengal and rendered its people helpless.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday launched a scathing attack on the Mamata Banerjee government, claiming it had defamed the soil of West Bengal and rendered its people helpless. Addressing a well-attended BJP rally in North Bengal's Jalpaiguri district, Modi said it was an "extortionist syndicate" and not 'Didi', as Banerjee is fondly called, that was running the state. "Those who got power in Bengal in the name of 'Maa, Maati, Manush' after unseating the Left have also adopted the culture of violence. They have defamed the soil of Bengal and rendered its people helpless," Modi said attacking TMC government. Assailing Banerjee for the sit-in she staged against the attempted questioning of Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar by the CBI in the Saradha chit fund scam case, the prime minister said it was for the first time that a chief minister had staged a dharna to protect the fraudsters who looted lakhs of poor people. "This chowkidar will spare neither the perpetrators of chit fund scams nor those protecting them," he asserted.

Mamata government defamed Bengal, left people helpless: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/after-rahul-gandhi-announces-loan-waiver-for-all-farmers-across-country-pm-modi-attacks-congress-for-gimmick-194848">Modi attacked the Congress again and again</a>&nbsp;in the Lok Sabha on Thursday — Modi was replying to the motion of thanks on the President's address — so much so that by the end of it, he seemed to talk more about the Congress and less about his own government.&nbsp;

Anything he said seemed to be juxtaposed against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-accuses-congress-of-protecting-1984-riot-culprits-takes-jibe-at-kamal-nath-188104">the previous Congress regime</a>.&nbsp;

"Our friends in the Congress see things in two time periods. BC, which is 'Before Congress', when nothing happened and the other is AD —'After Dynasty' — where everything happened," Modi said.&nbsp;

"You want to know what is my crime for them?" he asked. "That a person born in a poor family is challenging their 'sultanate'. In 55 years of their rule, sanitation coverage was around 38% and in our 55 months, it is nearly 98%."&nbsp;

"In hating Modi, the Opposition has begun to hate the nation," he added. "That is why their leaders go to London and do press conferences to show India in bad light."

He brought up the charge against him that he is guilty of destroying institutions, again saying that it was the Congress and not him that was guilty.&nbsp;

"Congress insults Army, calls the Army chief a 'Gunda' but it is Modi who is destroying institutions? Congress leaders create stories that Indian Army is planning a coup but it is Modi who is destroying institutions?" he said. &nbsp;

"In 1959, Congress Central Govt dismissed the Communist Govt in Kerala, 60 years now, hope my friends from Kerala remember. So, what sanctity? What respect of institutions?"

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PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: People have seen the work a Government with an absolute majority can do. They have seen our work. They do not want a 'Mahamilavat' Government of those who recently gathered in Kolkata <a href="https://t.co/OfdVaCOSLm">pic.twitter.com/OfdVaCOSLm</a>
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PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: Aap keh rahe hain Modi sansthaon ko khatam kar raha hai, ulta chor chowkidaar ko daante. Aapatkal lagaya Congress ne, Sena ka apmaan kiya Congress ne, aur kehte hain Modi barbaad kar raha hai <a href="https://t.co/lvzjATFm54">pic.twitter.com/lvzjATFm54</a>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: Kharge ji ek decent vyakti hai, lekin pata nahi kya majboori hai, kis museebat mein phanse hain ki decent vyakti, har baar dissent, har baar dissent. <a href="https://t.co/u2cK4tj8mt">pic.twitter.com/u2cK4tj8mt</a>
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He spoke of the economy, again comparing the current size of India's economy to its breadth under the Congress. "In last 4 1/2 years India became 6th largest economy from the 10-11th largest. When we reached 11th position then people, who cannot even be seen in opposition now, praised themselves.They felt proud on reaching 11th, why are they saddened when we have reached 6th?"

He mentioned the 2010 Commonwealth Games, but again using it to accuse the Congress of corruption. "In 2010 Commonwealth games, on one hand, our athletes were working hard to win medals for the country, while these people(Congress) were accumulating wealth for themselves."

He talked of gas connections, and yet again compared their number now to their number under the Congress. "Gas connections in their 55 years of rule were 12 crore, it is 13 crore in our 55 months. We have worked at much faster speed in our five years."&nbsp;

"See your(Congress) manifestos of 2004, 2009 and 2014. In all the manifestos you have promised that within three years, every house will have electricity. I am amazed at this," he added.&nbsp;

And on and on it went. He accused the Congress of not wanting a strong Indian Air Force.&nbsp;

"In our neighbourhood, everyone is building war capabilities, why didn't we do it in all these years? This is criminal negligence. Congress doesn't want a strong Indian Air Force," he said.&nbsp;

"Congress doesn't want our air force to be strong. I am levelling a serious allegation here. You want this Rafale deal to be cancelled, on whose behest? For which company?" he added.&nbsp;

He said that Ambedkar had said it would be suicidal to join the Congress, and that Gandhi had recommended the dissolution of the Congress. So when he was calling for a "Congress-mukt Bharat", he was only trying to fulfil Gandhi's wish.&nbsp;

Inflation and Congress, Modi said, have a strong bond.&nbsp;

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PM Modi in Lok Sabha: Two songs became very popular, 'Baaki kuch bacha to mehengayi maar gayi' and 'mehengai dayen khaaye jaat hai' both these songs were in who's tenure? First during Indira ji, and second during remote control Govt. Inflation and Congress have a strong bond <a href="https://t.co/Wpkd2hX7KJ">pic.twitter.com/Wpkd2hX7KJ</a>
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Modi also broached the topic of rising unemployment in the country.&nbsp;

"In the last four years, 6.35 lakh new professionals have come up. You think if a doctor opens a clinic or a nursing home then he will employ only one person? Or does a CA only employ one person?" he asked. "No," he answered.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked the Congress again and again in the Lok Sabha on Thursday — Modi was replying to the motion of thanks on the President's address — so much so that by the end of it, he seemed to talk more about the Congress and less about his own government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked the Congress again and again in the Lok Sabha on Thursday — Modi was replying to the motion of thanks on the President's address — so much so that by the end of it, he seemed to talk more about the Congress and less about his own government. Anything he said seemed to be juxtaposed against the previous Congress regime. "Our friends in the Congress see things in two time periods. BC, which is 'Before Congress', when nothing happened and the other is AD —'After Dynasty' — where everything happened," Modi said. "You want to know what is my crime for them?" he asked. "That a person born in a poor family is challenging their 'sultanate'. In 55 years of their rule, sanitation coverage was around 38% and in our 55 months, it is nearly 98%." "In hating Modi, the Opposition has begun to hate the nation," he added. "That is why their leaders go to London and do press conferences to show India in bad light." He brought up the charge against him that he is guilty of destroying institutions, again saying that it was the Congress and not him that was guilty. "Congress insults Army, calls the Army chief a 'Gunda' but it is Modi who is destroying institutions? Congress leaders create stories that Indian Army is planning a coup but it is Modi who is destroying institutions?" he said. "In 1959, Congress Central Govt dismissed the Communist Govt in Kerala, 60 years now, hope my friends from Kerala remember. So, what sanctity? What respect of institutions?" PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: People have seen the work a Government with an absolute majority can do. They have seen our work. They do not want a 'Mahamilavat' Government of those who recently gathered in Kolkata pic.twitter.com/OfdVaCOSLm — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: Aap keh rahe hain Modi sansthaon ko khatam kar raha hai, ulta chor chowkidaar ko daante. Aapatkal lagaya Congress ne, Sena ka apmaan kiya Congress ne, aur kehte hain Modi barbaad kar raha hai pic.twitter.com/lvzjATFm54 — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: Kharge ji ek decent vyakti hai, lekin pata nahi kya majboori hai, kis museebat mein phanse hain ki decent vyakti, har baar dissent, har baar dissent. pic.twitter.com/u2cK4tj8mt — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × He spoke of the economy, again comparing the current size of India's economy to its breadth under the Congress. "In last 4 1/2 years India became 6th largest economy from the 10-11th largest. When we reached 11th position then people, who cannot even be seen in opposition now, praised themselves.They felt proud on reaching 11th, why are they saddened when we have reached 6th?" He mentioned the 2010 Commonwealth Games, but again using it to accuse the Congress of corruption. "In 2010 Commonwealth games, on one hand, our athletes were working hard to win medals for the country, while these people(Congress) were accumulating wealth for themselves." He talked of gas connections, and yet again compared their number now to their number under the Congress. "Gas connections in their 55 years of rule were 12 crore, it is 13 crore in our 55 months. We have worked at much faster speed in our five years." "See your(Congress) manifestos of 2004, 2009 and 2014. In all the manifestos you have promised that within three years, every house will have electricity. I am amazed at this," he added. And on and on it went. He accused the Congress of not wanting a strong Indian Air Force. "In our neighbourhood, everyone is building war capabilities, why didn't we do it in all these years? This is criminal negligence. Congress doesn't want a strong Indian Air Force," he said. "Congress doesn't want our air force to be strong. I am levelling a serious allegation here. You want this Rafale deal to be cancelled, on whose behest? For which company?" he added. He said that Ambedkar had said it would be suicidal to join the Congress, and that Gandhi had recommended the dissolution of the Congress. So when he was calling for a "Congress-mukt Bharat", he was only trying to fulfil Gandhi's wish. Inflation and Congress, Modi said, have a strong bond. PM Modi in Lok Sabha: Two songs became very popular, 'Baaki kuch bacha to mehengayi maar gayi' and 'mehengai dayen khaaye jaat hai' both these songs were in who's tenure? First during Indira ji, and second during remote control Govt. Inflation and Congress have a strong bond pic.twitter.com/Wpkd2hX7KJ — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × Modi also broached the topic of rising unemployment in the country. "In the last four years, 6.35 lakh new professionals have come up. You think if a doctor opens a clinic or a nursing home then he will employ only one person? Or does a CA only employ one person?" he asked. "No," he answered.

In hating me, the opposition has begun to hate the nation: PM Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-hating-modi-the-opposition-has-begun-to-hate-the-nation-pm-modi-195852">In hating Modi, the Opposition has begun to hate the nation: PM</a>

While addressing the Motion of Thanks speech in Parliament on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the developments done by his government during the last four years.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-back-in-brussels-for-latest-brexit-showdown-195815">Theresa May returns to Brussels trying desperately to avoid no-deal Brexit</a>

Britain's&nbsp;Prime Minister Theresa May&nbsp;returned to Brussels on Thursday for a showdown with EU leaders as she bids to avoid a calamitous no-deal Brexit in 50 days' time.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-played-with-order-of-supreme-court-god-help-you-chief-justice-of-india-to-cbi-195801">'You have played with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-played-with-order-of-supreme-court-god-help-you-chief-justice-of-india-to-cbi-195801">order</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-played-with-order-of-supreme-court-god-help-you-chief-justice-of-india-to-cbi-195801"> of Supreme Court... God help you': Chief Justice of India to CBI</a>

The Supreme Court slammed the Central Bureau of Investigation Thursday, telling it that "you have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-may-take-back-kolkata-police-chiefs-medals-mha-sources-195827">Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief's medals: Home ministry sources&nbsp;</a>

The Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar's medals, the news agency ANI quoted sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs as saying on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rbi-cuts-repo-rate-by-25-basis-points-to-625-per-cent-195725">RBI cuts key interest rates; projects GDP growth at 7.4%, limit of collateral-free agriculture loans increased</a>

The Reserve Bank of India(RBI) today cut the&nbsp;repo rate by 25 basis points&nbsp;to 6.25 per cent. Repo rate is the interest at which the banks borrow from the central bank whenever it experiences a funds shortfall.&nbsp;

In hating Modi, the Opposition has begun to hate the nation: PM While addressing the Motion of Thanks speech in Parliament on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the developments done by his government during the last four years.

In hating Modi, the Opposition has begun to hate the nation: PM While addressing the Motion of Thanks speech in Parliament on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the developments done by his government during the last four years. Theresa May returns to Brussels trying desperately to avoid no-deal Brexit Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May returned to Brussels on Thursday for a showdown with EU leaders as she bids to avoid a calamitous no-deal Brexit in 50 days' time. 'You have played with order of Supreme Court... God help you': Chief Justice of India to CBI The Supreme Court slammed the Central Bureau of Investigation Thursday, telling it that "you have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you." Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief's medals: Home ministry sources The Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar's medals, the news agency ANI quoted sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs as saying on Thursday. RBI cuts key interest rates; projects GDP growth at 7.4%, limit of collateral-free agriculture loans increased The Reserve Bank of India(RBI) today cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.25 per cent. Repo rate is the interest at which the banks borrow from the central bank whenever it experiences a funds shortfall.

BJP president Amit Shah said on Wednesday the upcoming Lok Sabha elections will be Prime Minister Narendra Modi versus the rest.

Shah, while addressing a meeting of BJP booth workers in Aligarh, also said the BJP has rid Uttar Pradesh of goons and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has tackled the land mafia problem in the state.&nbsp;

"Upar Modi, neechey Yogi (Modi as prime minister and Adityanath as chief minister). This general election will be Modi versus the rest," he said, adding that this would be the poll scenario in Uttar Pradesh.

"The BJP has rid Uttar Pradesh of goons, of parivaarvad. Yogi has tackled land mafia in Uttar Pradesh. Goons are now scared of cops," the BJP chief said.

Shah said crime was under control in the state after Yogi Adityanath government came to power.

Slamming the alliance between the SP and the BSP for the parliamentary polls, he said, "We will put Aligarh locks on their shop. BJP workers will put Aligarh locks on the shop of Buaa-Bhatija (Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav)."

Aligarh is known for locks, now a dying industry.

Shah said, "Reporters often ask me that when buaa and bhatija have come together, then how 74 seats will be won in UP? I say that if you see the sea of party workers, you will come to know that from where 74 seats will come."

The BJP is different from other parties, as victory is guaranteed by the booth level workers and not by any one leader, he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Amit Shah,BJP President in Aligarh: BJP's stand is clear that Ram Temple will be built in that very place in Ayodhya. SP, BSP and Congress should clear their agenda, whether they want the construction of Ram Mandir or not. <a href="https://t.co/DZSV3mPGLG">pic.twitter.com/DZSV3mPGLG</a>
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&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah said on Wednesday the upcoming Lok Sabha elections will be Prime Minister Narendra Modi versus the rest. Shah, while addressing a meeting of BJP booth workers in Aligarh, also said the BJP has rid Uttar Pradesh of goons and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has tackled the land mafia problem in the state.

BJP president Amit Shah said on Wednesday the upcoming Lok Sabha elections will be Prime Minister Narendra Modi versus the rest. Shah, while addressing a meeting of BJP booth workers in Aligarh, also said the BJP has rid Uttar Pradesh of goons and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has tackled the land mafia problem in the state. "Upar Modi, neechey Yogi (Modi as prime minister and Adityanath as chief minister). This general election will be Modi versus the rest," he said, adding that this would be the poll scenario in Uttar Pradesh. "The BJP has rid Uttar Pradesh of goons, of parivaarvad. Yogi has tackled land mafia in Uttar Pradesh. Goons are now scared of cops," the BJP chief said. Shah said crime was under control in the state after Yogi Adityanath government came to power. Slamming the alliance between the SP and the BSP for the parliamentary polls, he said, "We will put Aligarh locks on their shop. BJP workers will put Aligarh locks on the shop of Buaa-Bhatija (Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav)." Aligarh is known for locks, now a dying industry. Shah said, "Reporters often ask me that when buaa and bhatija have come together, then how 74 seats will be won in UP? I say that if you see the sea of party workers, you will come to know that from where 74 seats will come." The BJP is different from other parties, as victory is guaranteed by the booth level workers and not by any one leader, he said. Amit Shah,BJP President in Aligarh: BJP's stand is clear that Ram Temple will be built in that very place in Ayodhya. SP, BSP and Congress should clear their agenda, whether they want the construction of Ram Mandir or not. pic.twitter.com/DZSV3mPGLG — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 6, 2019 ×

Lok Sabha polls will be Modi vs the rest: BJP chief Shah in Aligarh

Union Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani on Sunday said that she would stay in politics for long, however, she will quit politics the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hang his boots.

Speaking at the Words Count Festival here in a discussion titled `Scripting Her Story, From Star to Star Campaigner`, Irani said: "I will never become the prime minister.I take pride in the fact that I got an opportunity to work with charismatic leaders like late Atal Bihari Bajpayee ji and Modi ji."&nbsp;

"The day `pradhan sevak` Narendra Modi ji decides to retire, I will also leave Indian politics," she added. "People have started presuming that Modi ji won`t be there for long, but I can assure you that he is going to stay here for many years," Irani said when asked whether the BJP will come in power once again in 2019.

The Union Minister further said that whether she would contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from Amethi against Congress president Rahul Gandhi or not, will be decided by BJP president Amit Shah, adding that "People were not able to recognise me in Amethi in 2014 but now they know who I am." Irani fought against Rahul in the 2014 general elections from Amethi.&nbsp;

Talking about the menace of trolling on social media platforms, Irani asserted that she had been trolled not only by celebrated journalists and politicians but also by "anonymous denizens".

The Union Minister further said that she admires Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan."Without any additional support, they both have made a difference in Indian politics. They truly inspire me," she added.&nbsp;

Union Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani on Sunday said that she would stay in politics for long, however, she will quit politics the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hang his boots.

Union Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani on Sunday said that she would stay in politics for long, however, she will quit politics the day Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hang his boots. Speaking at the Words Count Festival here in a discussion titled `Scripting Her Story, From Star to Star Campaigner`, Irani said: "I will never become the prime minister.I take pride in the fact that I got an opportunity to work with charismatic leaders like late Atal Bihari Bajpayee ji and Modi ji." "The day `pradhan sevak` Narendra Modi ji decides to retire, I will also leave Indian politics," she added. "People have started presuming that Modi ji won`t be there for long, but I can assure you that he is going to stay here for many years," Irani said when asked whether the BJP will come in power once again in 2019. The Union Minister further said that whether she would contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from Amethi against Congress president Rahul Gandhi or not, will be decided by BJP president Amit Shah, adding that "People were not able to recognise me in Amethi in 2014 but now they know who I am." Irani fought against Rahul in the 2014 general elections from Amethi. Talking about the menace of trolling on social media platforms, Irani asserted that she had been trolled not only by celebrated journalists and politicians but also by "anonymous denizens". The Union Minister further said that she admires Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan."Without any additional support, they both have made a difference in Indian politics. They truly inspire me," she added.

The day Narendra Modi decides to hang his boots, I will leave politics, says Smriti Irani

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday attacked the Congress for using farm loan waivers as a gimmick ahead of the election to win votes and said the party's previous such initiative benefitted only middlemen and select farmers.

He listed out various measures, including direct income support of Rs 6,000 to farmers cultivating on up to five acres of land, being taken by the central government to ensure welfare of the peasants neglected by the "previous governments".&nbsp;

"Congress always left out 70-80 per cent poor farmers from the benefit of their farm loan waiver scheme. What about these people?" he asked.

Modi laid foundation stones of various development projects worth Rs 6,000 crore which include setting up of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Vijaypur, a bridge over river Chenab, pollution abatement project on rivers Devika and Tawi, a campus of Northern Regional Centre of Indian Institute of Mass Communication and University Institute of Engineering and Technology in Kathua.&nbsp;

Addressing a public rally in Vijaypur, the prime minister cited proposed amendments in the Citizenship Bill saying the country stands with those who faced persecution on the basis of their faith.

"We have brought the matter of change in Citizenship Bill with a commitment. Those (people) who had to part with India due to some condition in 1947, if they face persecution on the basis of their faith then the country has to stand with them," he said.&nbsp;

The Citizenship Bill seeks to grant nationality to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from three neighbouring countries -- Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh and entered India before December 31, 2014.

Protests were witnessed in different parts of the country over the Bill which has been passed by Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

Modi also talked about a "very emotional issue" of Kashmiri Pandits, saying he has been bearing the pain of their exodus.

He said the central government is committed to ensuring respect and dignity of the displaced community.

"The pain that they had to undergo. That they had to leave their homeland. I have never said this before but I have been feeling this pain of their within me," the prime minister said.

Modi said the government is going to build 14,000 bunkers in border areas of Jammu to ensure safety of people.

"The government is dealing strictly with the terrorism (being faced by the state)," he said.

He accused the Congress of lying on the issue of 'one rank, one pension' (OROP) to retired defence personnel.

"How much they (Congress) lie? They talked big on the issue of welfare of ex-servicemen and allocated a meagre Rs 500 crore whereas this government has allocated over Rs 35,000 crore which included arrears worth Rs 11,000 crore," he said.

Modi said that if required attention had been given to the issue of Kartarpur corridor, then the pious land of Guru Nanak Dev would have been part of India.

The corridor, whose foundation stone was laid late last year, will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of the Sikhism founder Guru Nanak - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will only have to obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, established in 1522 by Guru Nanak.&nbsp;

During the address, the prime minister hit out at so-called "wise and big people" in the opposition parties for ridiculing his government's Jan Dhan scheme of financial inclusion, saying the bank accounts opened under it will help in ensuring that the benefits of recently-announced PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi programme reach its right beneficiary.&nbsp;

"Those ridiculing me have now realised what these accounts will be used for," he said.

Referring to upcoming general elections, the Prime Minister said the 'jung (war)' of 2019 is for taking country ahead.&nbsp;

He said the PM-Kisan scheme has been allocated Rs 75,000 crore annually which will mean Rs 7.5 lakh crore will be deposited in farmers' account in the next 10 years.

The scheme aims to cover 90 per cent of farmers who have less than five acres of land and Rs 6,000 will be transferred to their accounts annually in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000, Modi said, adding that efforts were being made to ensure the release of the first instalment at the earliest.&nbsp;

Attacking the Congress for promising farm loan waivers, he said that it is a temporary solution for the problem which the Congress uses to win elections only.

The Congress had promised to waive loans of farmers in 2008-09 which were in the range of Rs 6 lakh crore but when it came to power it only gave relief in loans worth Rs 52,000 crore, he said.&nbsp;

"CAG report found that about 30-35 lakh people who received these waivers were not even eligible to get it," Modi said at the rally in Vijaypur near Jammu.

Ridiculing the loan waiver scheme announced by the new Congress dispensation in Madhya Pradesh, the prime minister said some beneficiaries have been given cheques of Rs 13 only.

"People know the track record of country's 'naamdar'. They get 'fever' of loan waivers just before elections...They try to act as 'messiah' of farmers by announcing farm loan waivers once in 10 years," he said referring to the UPA's 10-year rule between 2004 and 2014.&nbsp;

Ironically, the BJP had also announced loan waivers for farmers in Uttar Pradesh ahead of assembly elections in 2017.

After assuming power, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had announced loan waivers of up to Rs 1 lakh for small and marginal farmers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday attacked the Congress for using farm loan waivers as a gimmick ahead of the election to win votes and said the party's previous such initiative benefitted only middlemen and select farmers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday attacked the Congress for using farm loan waivers as a gimmick ahead of the election to win votes and said the party's previous such initiative benefitted only middlemen and select farmers. He listed out various measures, including direct income support of Rs 6,000 to farmers cultivating on up to five acres of land, being taken by the central government to ensure welfare of the peasants neglected by the "previous governments". "Congress always left out 70-80 per cent poor farmers from the benefit of their farm loan waiver scheme. What about these people?" he asked. Modi laid foundation stones of various development projects worth Rs 6,000 crore which include setting up of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Vijaypur, a bridge over river Chenab, pollution abatement project on rivers Devika and Tawi, a campus of Northern Regional Centre of Indian Institute of Mass Communication and University Institute of Engineering and Technology in Kathua. Addressing a public rally in Vijaypur, the prime minister cited proposed amendments in the Citizenship Bill saying the country stands with those who faced persecution on the basis of their faith. "We have brought the matter of change in Citizenship Bill with a commitment. Those (people) who had to part with India due to some condition in 1947, if they face persecution on the basis of their faith then the country has to stand with them," he said. The Citizenship Bill seeks to grant nationality to non-Muslims who fled religious persecution from three neighbouring countries -- Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh and entered India before December 31, 2014. Protests were witnessed in different parts of the country over the Bill which has been passed by Lok Sabha. Modi also talked about a "very emotional issue" of Kashmiri Pandits, saying he has been bearing the pain of their exodus. He said the central government is committed to ensuring respect and dignity of the displaced community. "The pain that they had to undergo. That they had to leave their homeland. I have never said this before but I have been feeling this pain of their within me," the prime minister said. Modi said the government is going to build 14,000 bunkers in border areas of Jammu to ensure safety of people. "The government is dealing strictly with the terrorism (being faced by the state)," he said. He accused the Congress of lying on the issue of 'one rank, one pension' (OROP) to retired defence personnel. "How much they (Congress) lie? They talked big on the issue of welfare of ex-servicemen and allocated a meagre Rs 500 crore whereas this government has allocated over Rs 35,000 crore which included arrears worth Rs 11,000 crore," he said. Modi said that if required attention had been given to the issue of Kartarpur corridor, then the pious land of Guru Nanak Dev would have been part of India. The corridor, whose foundation stone was laid late last year, will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of the Sikhism founder Guru Nanak - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will only have to obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, established in 1522 by Guru Nanak. During the address, the prime minister hit out at so-called "wise and big people" in the opposition parties for ridiculing his government's Jan Dhan scheme of financial inclusion, saying the bank accounts opened under it will help in ensuring that the benefits of recently-announced PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi programme reach its right beneficiary. "Those ridiculing me have now realised what these accounts will be used for," he said. Referring to upcoming general elections, the Prime Minister said the 'jung (war)' of 2019 is for taking country ahead. He said the PM-Kisan scheme has been allocated Rs 75,000 crore annually which will mean Rs 7.5 lakh crore will be deposited in farmers' account in the next 10 years. The scheme aims to cover 90 per cent of farmers who have less than five acres of land and Rs 6,000 will be transferred to their accounts annually in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000, Modi said, adding that efforts were being made to ensure the release of the first instalment at the earliest. Attacking the Congress for promising farm loan waivers, he said that it is a temporary solution for the problem which the Congress uses to win elections only. The Congress had promised to waive loans of farmers in 2008-09 which were in the range of Rs 6 lakh crore but when it came to power it only gave relief in loans worth Rs 52,000 crore, he said. "CAG report found that about 30-35 lakh people who received these waivers were not even eligible to get it," Modi said at the rally in Vijaypur near Jammu. Ridiculing the loan waiver scheme announced by the new Congress dispensation in Madhya Pradesh, the prime minister said some beneficiaries have been given cheques of Rs 13 only. "People know the track record of country's 'naamdar'. They get 'fever' of loan waivers just before elections...They try to act as 'messiah' of farmers by announcing farm loan waivers once in 10 years," he said referring to the UPA's 10-year rule between 2004 and 2014. Ironically, the BJP had also announced loan waivers for farmers in Uttar Pradesh ahead of assembly elections in 2017. After assuming power, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had announced loan waivers of up to Rs 1 lakh for small and marginal farmers.

PM Modi attacks Congress for farm loan waiver 'gimmick'

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/after-rahul-gandhi-announces-loan-waiver-for-all-farmers-across-country-pm-modi-attacks-congress-for-gimmick-194848">Narendra Modi</a> said on Sunday in Srinagar that his government would "break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir".&nbsp;

"We will break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir and fight it with all our might," Modi said.&nbsp;

"We will tackle every terrorist in a befitting way," he added.&nbsp;

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Modi's BJP government has already taken a hard line on terrorism — 2018 saw a massive uptick in the number of terrorist and army deaths in Kashmir, and one of the highest number of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control — but experts have said the overtly military approach has not worked.&nbsp;

In recent times, the army has for example had to deal with the problem of civilian populations pelting stones at the armed forces as they take on terrorists.&nbsp;

Modi on Sunday also harked back to the surgical strike saying that with it, "India has shown to the world its new policies (on terrorism)".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Modi was in Jammu and Kashmir to lay the foundation stone for the University of Ladakh. He also inaugurated two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in the Jammu and Srinagar divisions. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday in Srinagar that his government would "break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir". "We will break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir and fight it with all our might," Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday in Srinagar that his government would "break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir". "We will break the backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir and fight it with all our might," Modi said. "We will tackle every terrorist in a befitting way," he added. #WATCH J&K: Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins his speech at an event in Srinagar, in Kashmiri language. pic.twitter.com/uxpe8hde5P — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2019 × #WATCH Jammu & Kashmir: Prime Minister Narendra Modi tours Dal lake in Srinagar. pic.twitter.com/EwEJFfuowV — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2019 × Modi's BJP government has already taken a hard line on terrorism — 2018 saw a massive uptick in the number of terrorist and army deaths in Kashmir, and one of the highest number of ceasefire violations along the Line of Control — but experts have said the overtly military approach has not worked. In recent times, the army has for example had to deal with the problem of civilian populations pelting stones at the armed forces as they take on terrorists. Modi on Sunday also harked back to the surgical strike saying that with it, "India has shown to the world its new policies (on terrorism)". Modi was in Jammu and Kashmir to lay the foundation stone for the University of Ladakh. He also inaugurated two All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in the Jammu and Srinagar divisions.

Will break backbone of terror in Jammu and Kashmir: PM Narendra Modi

Suspense over the next CBI chief continued on Friday as the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-headed selection committee could not reach a decision during its second meeting in Delhi, officials said.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court said it was "averse" to the arrangement of an interim CBI Director and the Centre should "immediately" appoint a regular chief of the probe agency.

The post of CBI Director is "sensitive" and "important", and it is not good to keep an interim director of the agency for longer period, the top court observed and sought to know as to why the government has not made the appointment yet.

"No decision could be taken during the meeting," a senior government official said, without citing further details on the selection committee's meeting.

The post of the CBI chief has been lying vacant since January 10 after the unceremonious exit of Alok Verma, who had been engaged in a bitter fight with Gujarat-cadre IPS officer Rakesh Asthana over corruption charges.

Both Verma and Asthana had accused each other of corruption.

M Nageswara Rao has been working as the interim CBI chief after Verma's ouster.

Friday's meeting was held at the prime minister's residence -- that lasted for over an hour -- and attended by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge.

The panel's January 24 meeting has also remained inconclusive.

A list of eligible officers along with their dossiers was shared with the panel members in the last meeting.

"The government presented names of 70-80 officers. There was no mention of their career details including relevant experience. We (referring to CJI Gogoi) have asked them to provide all the necessary details. The next meeting will be convened may be by next week," Kharge had told reporters after the January 24 meeting.

Verma, after being removed from the post of CBI director by the PM-led panel, was named as the Director General of Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards -- a less significant portfolio.

Verma did not accept the offer and wrote to the government, saying he should be considered as deemed superannuated as he has completed 60 years age of superannuation on July 31, 2017.

He had taken over as the CBI chief on February 1, 2017 for a fixed two-year tenure that ended Thursday.&nbsp;

Suspense over the next CBI chief continued on Friday as the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-headed selection committee could not reach a decision during its second meeting in Delhi, officials said.

Suspense over the next CBI chief continued on Friday as the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-headed selection committee could not reach a decision during its second meeting in Delhi, officials said. Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court said it was "averse" to the arrangement of an interim CBI Director and the Centre should "immediately" appoint a regular chief of the probe agency. The post of CBI Director is "sensitive" and "important", and it is not good to keep an interim director of the agency for longer period, the top court observed and sought to know as to why the government has not made the appointment yet. "No decision could be taken during the meeting," a senior government official said, without citing further details on the selection committee's meeting. The post of the CBI chief has been lying vacant since January 10 after the unceremonious exit of Alok Verma, who had been engaged in a bitter fight with Gujarat-cadre IPS officer Rakesh Asthana over corruption charges. Both Verma and Asthana had accused each other of corruption. M Nageswara Rao has been working as the interim CBI chief after Verma's ouster. Friday's meeting was held at the prime minister's residence -- that lasted for over an hour -- and attended by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge. The panel's January 24 meeting has also remained inconclusive. A list of eligible officers along with their dossiers was shared with the panel members in the last meeting. "The government presented names of 70-80 officers. There was no mention of their career details including relevant experience. We (referring to CJI Gogoi) have asked them to provide all the necessary details. The next meeting will be convened may be by next week," Kharge had told reporters after the January 24 meeting. Verma, after being removed from the post of CBI director by the PM-led panel, was named as the Director General of Fire Services, Civil Defence and Home Guards -- a less significant portfolio. Verma did not accept the offer and wrote to the government, saying he should be considered as deemed superannuated as he has completed 60 years age of superannuation on July 31, 2017. He had taken over as the CBI chief on February 1, 2017 for a fixed two-year tenure that ended Thursday.

'No decision' on CBI chief in second meeting of PM-led panel

Budget 2019: It is a people's Budget says PM Narendra Modi

The next meeting of the selection committee, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to pick the new CBI director will take place on Friday, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is also member of the panel, said Wednesday.&nbsp;

The last meeting of the panel took place on January 24 but it remained "inconclusive".&nbsp;

"The next meeting of the panel on selection of the CBI chief will take place on February 1 at around 6 PM," Kharge told reporters.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads the three-member panel with Kharge and Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as its members.&nbsp;

In the last meeting, Kharge had sought details of dossiers of all the eligible officers for the post.&nbsp;

The next meeting of the selection committee, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to pick the new CBI director will take place on Friday, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is also member of the panel, said Wednesday.

The next meeting of the selection committee, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to pick the new CBI director will take place on Friday, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is also member of the panel, said Wednesday. The last meeting of the panel took place on January 24 but it remained "inconclusive". "The next meeting of the panel on selection of the CBI chief will take place on February 1 at around 6 PM," Kharge told reporters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads the three-member panel with Kharge and Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as its members. In the last meeting, Kharge had sought details of dossiers of all the eligible officers for the post.

Next meeting of PM-led panel to pick new CBI chief on Friday: Mallikarjun Kharge

Poking fun at the Opposition's ‘mahagathbandhan,’ <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-run-by-a-dynasty-cannot-serve-the-people-amit-shah-193708">BJP president Amit Shah</a> on Wednesday said if the alliance succeeded in forming the government, there will be a different <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/previous-govt-would-have-taken-25-more-years-to-do-the-work-we-have-done-so-far-pm-modi-in-surat-193884">Prime Minister</a> on each day of the week with the country going on leave on Sunday.

Addressing a gathering in Kanpur, Shah said, "If the mahagathbandhan makes the government then we will have different Prime Ministers on each day like Monday it will be Bhenji (Mayawati), on Tuesday Akhilesh, for Wednesday Mamata Didi will take charge, on Thursday it is going to be Sharad Pawar, on Friday Deve Gowda will become the PM and on Saturday Stalin will be the PM. On Sunday the country will be on leave."

Sharpening his attack on the opposition's alliance he said, "For us '4B' means 'Badhta Bharat', 'Banata Bharat' whereas for them '4B' is 'Bua', 'Babua', 'Bhai' and 'Behen. This gathbandhan being formed against BJP is an alliance of crime, corruption and selfish politics. This is basically done to stop our popularity amongst people."

Elaborating that the functioning of the government and the law and order in the state has improved, the BJP president added, "Before we came into power there was no law and order here, but today there is. This government under the leadership of PM Modi and CM Yogi in the state is going to progress further."

He also asserted that the party was committed to building the Ram Temple at the Ram Janmabhoomi spot.

Motivating his party workers he said, "We started the campaign for 2014 from Kanpur and the first meeting with booth president for the 2019 elections also happened here today."&nbsp;

Poking fun at the Opposition's ‘mahagathbandhan,’ BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday said if the alliance succeeded in forming the government, there will be a different Prime Minister on each day of the week with the country going on leave on Sunday.

Poking fun at the Opposition's ‘mahagathbandhan,’ BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday said if the alliance succeeded in forming the government, there will be a different Prime Minister on each day of the week with the country going on leave on Sunday. Addressing a gathering in Kanpur, Shah said, "If the mahagathbandhan makes the government then we will have different Prime Ministers on each day like Monday it will be Bhenji (Mayawati), on Tuesday Akhilesh, for Wednesday Mamata Didi will take charge, on Thursday it is going to be Sharad Pawar, on Friday Deve Gowda will become the PM and on Saturday Stalin will be the PM. On Sunday the country will be on leave." Sharpening his attack on the opposition's alliance he said, "For us '4B' means 'Badhta Bharat', 'Banata Bharat' whereas for them '4B' is 'Bua', 'Babua', 'Bhai' and 'Behen. This gathbandhan being formed against BJP is an alliance of crime, corruption and selfish politics. This is basically done to stop our popularity amongst people." Elaborating that the functioning of the government and the law and order in the state has improved, the BJP president added, "Before we came into power there was no law and order here, but today there is. This government under the leadership of PM Modi and CM Yogi in the state is going to progress further." He also asserted that the party was committed to building the Ram Temple at the Ram Janmabhoomi spot. Motivating his party workers he said, "We started the campaign for 2014 from Kanpur and the first meeting with booth president for the 2019 elections also happened here today."

If gathbandhan makes government, we'll have new PM each day: Amit Shah

The Shiv Sena Monday said it is "unfortunate" that the icon of the country's freedom struggle Veer Savarkar has been neglected even in the "Modi era" and not honoured with the Bharat Ratna.

It also said that the highest civilian award has been conferred on veteran artiste late Bhupen Hazarika only with an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, which is a "wrong" thing.

The Sena, an ally of the BJP at the Centre and in Maharashtra, has since long been demanding the highest civilian award for Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who spent the prime of his life at the Cellular Jail in Andaman after being sentenced to life.

Sena's Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut had a few years back written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying it was high time that the NDA government honoured Savarkar with the Bharat Ratna so as to rectify the "mistakes" of earlier governments which had "deliberately neglected" him due to his staunch Hindutva views.

"The Congress insulted Savarkar during its regime. But what did the Modi government do after coming to power? The BJP was pitching hard for the Bharat Ratna for Savarkar when it was in opposition. But neither the Ram temple got constructed nor Savarkar got the Bharat Ratna," the Sena said in an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana'.

"It is unfortunate that even in the 'Modi era', Savarkar has not been given the Bharat Ratna," it rued.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led party noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had gone to Andaman last month and visited the cell where Savarkar was once jailed.

"He (Modi) did some mediation but it got washed away in the waves of an ocean," it said in sarcastic remarks.

Patting itself over Pranab Mukherjee being conferred the Bharat Ratna, the Sena said it had backed his candidature for the president's post despite opposition from the BJP.

"If Mukherjee was 'Bharat Ratna', then why was he not given the second term as president. His election would have been unopposed," it opined.

The Shiv Sena Monday said it is "unfortunate" that the icon of the country's freedom struggle Veer Savarkar has been neglected even in the "Modi era" and not honoured with the Bharat Ratna.

The Shiv Sena Monday said it is "unfortunate" that the icon of the country's freedom struggle Veer Savarkar has been neglected even in the "Modi era" and not honoured with the Bharat Ratna. It also said that the highest civilian award has been conferred on veteran artiste late Bhupen Hazarika only with an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, which is a "wrong" thing. The Sena, an ally of the BJP at the Centre and in Maharashtra, has since long been demanding the highest civilian award for Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who spent the prime of his life at the Cellular Jail in Andaman after being sentenced to life. Sena's Rajya Sabha member Sanjay Raut had a few years back written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying it was high time that the NDA government honoured Savarkar with the Bharat Ratna so as to rectify the "mistakes" of earlier governments which had "deliberately neglected" him due to his staunch Hindutva views. "The Congress insulted Savarkar during its regime. But what did the Modi government do after coming to power? The BJP was pitching hard for the Bharat Ratna for Savarkar when it was in opposition. But neither the Ram temple got constructed nor Savarkar got the Bharat Ratna," the Sena said in an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana'. "It is unfortunate that even in the 'Modi era', Savarkar has not been given the Bharat Ratna," it rued. The Uddhav Thackeray-led party noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had gone to Andaman last month and visited the cell where Savarkar was once jailed. "He (Modi) did some mediation but it got washed away in the waves of an ocean," it said in sarcastic remarks. Patting itself over Pranab Mukherjee being conferred the Bharat Ratna, the Sena said it had backed his candidature for the president's post despite opposition from the BJP. "If Mukherjee was 'Bharat Ratna', then why was he not given the second term as president. His election would have been unopposed," it opined.

Shiv Sena hits out at Modi govt for not honouring Savarkar with Bharat Ratna

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year.

During the one-day visit, his fifth since becoming the Prime Minister in 2014, Modi will travel to all the three regions of the state; Ladakh, Kashmir and Jammu, sources told ANI.

He will lay foundation stones for a host of projects during the trip.

The significant projects include laying of foundation stones for the AIIMS - one each in Srinagar and Jammu, the sources said.

In Ladakh, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the work to expand Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh.

He will also inaugurate the Srinagar-Kargil Leh transmission line. He will also address public meetings.

The Prime Minister's visit will take place at a time when there are questions as to when the Assembly elections will be held in the state which doesn't have an elected government since June last year.

The Governor's rule was imposed in the state on June 19 last year after the PDP-BJP coalition government led by Mehbooba Mufti collapsed.

Governor Satya Pal Malik placed the Assembly under suspended animation on June 19 and subsequently dissolved it on November 22, when efforts were being made by different political formations to cobble up a majority in the 87-member House.

On one hand, PDP, National Conference and Congress had joined hands to form the government, on the other hand, People's Conference led by Sajjad Lone also staked a claim to form the government, insisting that he had the requisite support.

Amid criticism, the Governor had justified the dissolution of the House, contending that there were apprehensions of horse trading.

Recently, in Parliament, Opposition parties had slammed the imposition of central rule in the state and questioned when Assembly elections would be held.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, in his reply, said the central government was ready to hold Assembly elections in the state whenever the Election Commission wants.

He had said the Centre will make available the required strength of security forces and other resources whenever the polls are held. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year. During the one-day visit, his fifth since becoming the Prime Minister in 2014, Modi will travel to all the three regions of the state; Ladakh, Kashmir and Jammu, sources told ANI. He will lay foundation stones for a host of projects during the trip. The significant projects include laying of foundation stones for the AIIMS - one each in Srinagar and Jammu, the sources said. In Ladakh, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the work to expand Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh. He will also inaugurate the Srinagar-Kargil Leh transmission line. He will also address public meetings. The Prime Minister's visit will take place at a time when there are questions as to when the Assembly elections will be held in the state which doesn't have an elected government since June last year. The Governor's rule was imposed in the state on June 19 last year after the PDP-BJP coalition government led by Mehbooba Mufti collapsed. Governor Satya Pal Malik placed the Assembly under suspended animation on June 19 and subsequently dissolved it on November 22, when efforts were being made by different political formations to cobble up a majority in the 87-member House. On one hand, PDP, National Conference and Congress had joined hands to form the government, on the other hand, People's Conference led by Sajjad Lone also staked a claim to form the government, insisting that he had the requisite support. Amid criticism, the Governor had justified the dissolution of the House, contending that there were apprehensions of horse trading. Recently, in Parliament, Opposition parties had slammed the imposition of central rule in the state and questioned when Assembly elections would be held. Home Minister Rajnath Singh, in his reply, said the central government was ready to hold Assembly elections in the state whenever the Election Commission wants. He had said the Centre will make available the required strength of security forces and other resources whenever the polls are held.

PM to visit Jammu and Kashmir on February 3 to launch several projects

Arulmozhi Saravanan, a Mudra Yojana beneficiary, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi Narendra Modi in Madurai on Sunday during his visit to the city to lay the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

Saravanan, whose thermo flasks were ordered by the Prime Minister Office (PMO) via Government e-Marketplace, decided to meet the Prime Minister after learning about his visit to the city.

Earlier, when Saravanan learnt about the Central government's Mudra Yojana for small entrepreneurs to get loans without collateral, she had applied for the same and obtained a Mudra loan for her business-to supply simple goods and products to government offices.

When she heard of the GeM, she herself registered on it. In 2017, while browsing the GeM site, Saravanan noticed that the PMO was interested in purchasing a few thermo flasks, which she could supply. She responded, and soon PMO confirmed the order.&nbsp;

The flasks were later supplied, and the payment was made to Saravanan.

Saravanan shared this story with Prime Minister Modi, through a letter. The Prime Minister later mentioned it on his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme in mid-2017. 
It is worth mentioning that in her letters to PM, she addresses PM Modi as her father.

Thereafter, by supplying products to various offices, her business grew. Recently, she wrote to the Prime Minister again, informing him of the updates in her business, and the transformation in her life.

Interestingly, the turnover of her enterprise has crossed Rs 1 crore in the current financial year. It all started with an order of Rs 234 on GeM.

Saravanan, who earlier used firewood for cooking, now has moved over to a gas cylinder.&nbsp;

She is now planning to give up her cooking gas subsidy. Next on her agenda will be a home loan.

She said that her experience using GeM makes her believe that it is a great platform for the government offices to save public money. For her, GeM is now not just a means to a business. She describes it as a service to the nation.

Saravanan also believes that doing business has become easier after the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST).

From Mudra to GeM to GST, Saravanan, undoubtedly, is just one illustration of how the government's reforms are working on the ground to improve the ease the people's life.&nbsp;

Arulmozhi Saravanan, a Mudra Yojana beneficiary, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi Narendra Modi in Madurai on Sunday during his visit to the city to lay the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

Arulmozhi Saravanan, a Mudra Yojana beneficiary, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi Narendra Modi in Madurai on Sunday during his visit to the city to lay the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Saravanan, whose thermo flasks were ordered by the Prime Minister Office (PMO) via Government e-Marketplace, decided to meet the Prime Minister after learning about his visit to the city. Earlier, when Saravanan learnt about the Central government's Mudra Yojana for small entrepreneurs to get loans without collateral, she had applied for the same and obtained a Mudra loan for her business-to supply simple goods and products to government offices. When she heard of the GeM, she herself registered on it. In 2017, while browsing the GeM site, Saravanan noticed that the PMO was interested in purchasing a few thermo flasks, which she could supply. She responded, and soon PMO confirmed the order. The flasks were later supplied, and the payment was made to Saravanan. Saravanan shared this story with Prime Minister Modi, through a letter. The Prime Minister later mentioned it on his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme in mid-2017. It is worth mentioning that in her letters to PM, she addresses PM Modi as her father. Thereafter, by supplying products to various offices, her business grew. Recently, she wrote to the Prime Minister again, informing him of the updates in her business, and the transformation in her life. Interestingly, the turnover of her enterprise has crossed Rs 1 crore in the current financial year. It all started with an order of Rs 234 on GeM. Saravanan, who earlier used firewood for cooking, now has moved over to a gas cylinder. She is now planning to give up her cooking gas subsidy. Next on her agenda will be a home loan. She said that her experience using GeM makes her believe that it is a great platform for the government offices to save public money. For her, GeM is now not just a means to a business. She describes it as a service to the nation. Saravanan also believes that doing business has become easier after the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST). From Mudra to GeM to GST, Saravanan, undoubtedly, is just one illustration of how the government's reforms are working on the ground to improve the ease the people's life.

PM Modi meets Mudra entrepreneur Arulmozhi Saravanan in Madurai

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034">Venezuela military attache to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034"> urges </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034">army</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034"> to back Maduro opponent</a>

Venezuela's military attache to Washington broke ranks with Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, urging his "brothers in the military" to back the head of the National Assembly Juan Guaido as interim president, he told AFP.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-says-church-hasnt-known-how-to-listen-193036">On sex abuse scandals, Pope says Catholic Church 'wounded by sin'</a>

Pope Francis acknowledged Saturday that the Catholic Church was "wounded by sin" in a message addressed to priests and seminarians reeling from sexual abuse scandals and coverups.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-asia-bibis-lawyer-returns-to-pakistan-to-aid-in-appeal-193043">Asia Bibi's lawyer returns to Pakistan to 'hopefully assist client for last time'</a>

The Pakistani lawyer of a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy jetted out of the Netherlands Saturday to "hopefully assist his client for the last time" in a Pakistani court hearing, a Dutch MP said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-address-nation-in-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2019-193050">PM Narendra Modi to address </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-address-nation-in-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2019-193050">nation</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-address-nation-in-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2019-193050"> in first 'Mann Ki Baat' of 2019</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to address the nation in the 52nd episode of his “Mann Ki Baat” radio programme on Sunday.&nbsp;

The radio podcast, his first of 2019, will be broadcast&nbsp;on All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan at 11 am.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/banksy-artwork-stolen-from-bataclan-music-hall-in-paris-193052">Banksy artwork </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/banksy-artwork-stolen-from-bataclan-music-hall-in-paris-193052">stolen</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/banksy-artwork-stolen-from-bataclan-music-hall-in-paris-193052"> from Bataclan music hall in Paris</a>

An artwork by the British artist Banksy has been stolen from the Bataclan music hall in Paris.&nbsp;

The mural — which depicted a young girl with a mournful expression — had been painted onto one of the Bataclan's emergency doors. It was cut out.&nbsp;

Venezuela military attache to US urges army to back Maduro opponent Venezuela's military attache to Washington broke ranks with Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, urging his "brothers in the military" to back the head of the National Assembly Juan Guaido as interim president, he told AFP.

Venezuela military attache to US urges army to back Maduro opponent Venezuela's military attache to Washington broke ranks with Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, urging his "brothers in the military" to back the head of the National Assembly Juan Guaido as interim president, he told AFP. On sex abuse scandals, Pope says Catholic Church 'wounded by sin' Pope Francis acknowledged Saturday that the Catholic Church was "wounded by sin" in a message addressed to priests and seminarians reeling from sexual abuse scandals and coverups. Asia Bibi's lawyer returns to Pakistan to 'hopefully assist client for last time' The Pakistani lawyer of a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy jetted out of the Netherlands Saturday to "hopefully assist his client for the last time" in a Pakistani court hearing, a Dutch MP said. PM Narendra Modi to address nation in first 'Mann Ki Baat' of 2019 Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to address the nation in the 52nd episode of his “Mann Ki Baat” radio programme on Sunday. The radio podcast, his first of 2019, will be broadcast on All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan at 11 am. Banksy artwork stolen from Bataclan music hall in Paris An artwork by the British artist Banksy has been stolen from the Bataclan music hall in Paris. The mural — which depicted a young girl with a mournful expression — had been painted onto one of the Bataclan's emergency doors. It was cut out.

Prime Minister Modi who is on a day visit to southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala&nbsp;dedicated&nbsp;an Integrated Refinery Expansion Complex (IREP) at BPCL Kochi to the nation on Sunday.

Claiming that India was emerging as a refinery hub across the world, PM Modi said, "Indian refinery industry has done well in establishing itself as a major player globally. India, which is the second largest oil refinery in Asia, is emerging as a refinery hub with refining more than its demand. The country’s refining capacity is currently more than 247 million metric tonne per annum. I take this opportunity to congratulate all for the timely completion of IREP. The labourers are the real heroes of this project,” PM Modi said.

“Today is a historic day when the largest industrial unit of Kerala is entering in next phase of development. It is indeed a proud moment not just for Kerala, but for the entire nation. BPCL has played a critical role in popularising the clean fuel LPG among masses in Kerala and neighbouring states for more than 50 years,” he added.

“I would like to recall my childhood when I had seen many mothers struggling with the firewood stove in kitchens. Ever since, I had always thought of improving their situations and providing a healthy kitchen for them. The Ujjwala scheme of the Government of India is a way to realise the dream. I am happy that since May 2016, nearly 6 crore LPG connections have been provided to the poorest of the poor in our country under the Ujjawla scheme. Over 1 crore customers have given up LPG subsidies under 'Give it Up' initiative,” he said.&nbsp;

“To overcome environment pollution, the government is promoting the use of environment-friendly transport fuel i.e. CNG by expanding coverage of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in the country. After successful completion of 10th CGD Bidding Round, more than 400 districts of the country will be connected for providing piped gas supply,” he added.

“I would like to recall my childhood when I had seen many mothers struggling with the firewood stove in kitchens. Ever since, I had always thought of improving their situations and providing a healthy kitchen for them. The Ujjwala scheme of the Government of India is a way to realise the dream. I am happy that since May 2016, nearly 6 crore LPG connections have been provided to the poorest of the poor in our country under the Ujjawla scheme. Over 1 crore customers have given up LPG subsidies under 'Give it Up' initiative,” he said.&nbsp;

“To overcome environment pollution, the government is promoting the use of environment-friendly transport fuel i.e. CNG by expanding coverage of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in the country. After successful completion of 10th CGD Bidding Round, more than 400 districts of the country will be connected for providing piped gas supply,” he added.

Prime Minister Modi said that the central government is “thinking of developing additional 15,000 kilometres of the gas pipeline network".&nbsp;

“To cut down on the import of crude oil, the government has taken decisive steps towards reducing imports by 10 per cent and saving the precious foreign exchange,” he added.&nbsp;

Besides Prime Minister Modi, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor P. Sathasivam was also present at the venue.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Modi who is on a day visit to southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala dedicated an Integrated Refinery Expansion Complex (IREP) at BPCL Kochi to the nation on Sunday.

Prime Minister Modi who is on a day visit to southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala dedicated an Integrated Refinery Expansion Complex (IREP) at BPCL Kochi to the nation on Sunday. Claiming that India was emerging as a refinery hub across the world, PM Modi said, "Indian refinery industry has done well in establishing itself as a major player globally. India, which is the second largest oil refinery in Asia, is emerging as a refinery hub with refining more than its demand. The country’s refining capacity is currently more than 247 million metric tonne per annum. I take this opportunity to congratulate all for the timely completion of IREP. The labourers are the real heroes of this project,” PM Modi said. “Today is a historic day when the largest industrial unit of Kerala is entering in next phase of development. It is indeed a proud moment not just for Kerala, but for the entire nation. BPCL has played a critical role in popularising the clean fuel LPG among masses in Kerala and neighbouring states for more than 50 years,” he added. “I would like to recall my childhood when I had seen many mothers struggling with the firewood stove in kitchens. Ever since, I had always thought of improving their situations and providing a healthy kitchen for them. The Ujjwala scheme of the Government of India is a way to realise the dream. I am happy that since May 2016, nearly 6 crore LPG connections have been provided to the poorest of the poor in our country under the Ujjawla scheme. Over 1 crore customers have given up LPG subsidies under 'Give it Up' initiative,” he said. “To overcome environment pollution, the government is promoting the use of environment-friendly transport fuel i.e. CNG by expanding coverage of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in the country. After successful completion of 10th CGD Bidding Round, more than 400 districts of the country will be connected for providing piped gas supply,” he added. “I would like to recall my childhood when I had seen many mothers struggling with the firewood stove in kitchens. Ever since, I had always thought of improving their situations and providing a healthy kitchen for them. The Ujjwala scheme of the Government of India is a way to realise the dream. I am happy that since May 2016, nearly 6 crore LPG connections have been provided to the poorest of the poor in our country under the Ujjawla scheme. Over 1 crore customers have given up LPG subsidies under 'Give it Up' initiative,” he said. “To overcome environment pollution, the government is promoting the use of environment-friendly transport fuel i.e. CNG by expanding coverage of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in the country. After successful completion of 10th CGD Bidding Round, more than 400 districts of the country will be connected for providing piped gas supply,” he added. Prime Minister Modi said that the central government is “thinking of developing additional 15,000 kilometres of the gas pipeline network". “To cut down on the import of crude oil, the government has taken decisive steps towards reducing imports by 10 per cent and saving the precious foreign exchange,” he added. Besides Prime Minister Modi, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor P. Sathasivam was also present at the venue. (With inputs from agencies)

India emerging refinery hub across world: PM Modi in Kochi

In pics: How world celebrated India's 70th Republic Day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated scientists of ISRO for the launch of PSLV.&nbsp;

He said India has become the first country to use the fourth stage of a space rocket as an orbital platform for microgravity experiments.

"Heartiest congratulations to our space scientists for yet another successful launch of PSLV. This launch has put in orbit Kalamsat, built by India's talented students. With this launch, India also becomes the first country to use the fourth stage of a space rocket as an orbital platform for microgravity experiments," the Prime Minister tweeted early on Friday.

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Heartiest congratulations to our space scientists for yet another successful launch of PSLV. 
 
This launch has put in orbit Kalamsat, built by India's talented students.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1088596416149110784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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With this launch, India also becomes the first country to use the fourth stage of a space rocket as an orbital platform for micro-gravity experiments. <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1088596419286462464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has successfully launched its 46th flight of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C44) carrying Kalamsat, a communication satellite developed by students and India's military satellite Microsat-R from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Addressing media after the successful launch of PSLV-C44 mission, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chief K Sivan said,"The ISRO is open to all students of India. Bring to us your satellites and we will launch it for you. Let's make India into a science-fairing nation."

He added,"PSLV-C44 mission successfully injected into Microsat - R. The mission is not ordinary; C44 is the first mission of PSLV-DL and is a new variant of PSLV. It's the lowest altitude the PSLV flown still now. Kalamsat which was built by space kids, they are here and congratulated them."

The launch which took place at 11:37 pm is said to be unique as PSLV-C44 fourth stage was re-used automatically to launch Kalamsat payload and Microsat-R satellite into space from the First Launch Pad (FLP).&nbsp;

PSLV is a four-stage launch vehicle with alternating solid and liquid stages.

The PSLV with two strap-on configuration was identified for this mission and the configuration is designated as PSLV-DL.

PSLV-C44 is the first mission of PSLV-DL and is a new variant of PSLV.

In PSLV-C44, the fourth stage (PS4) of the vehicle will be moved to a higher circular orbit so as to establish an orbital platform for carrying out experiments.&nbsp;

Kalamsat, a student payload, is the first to use PS4 as an orbital platform. PSLV-C44 also carried Microsat-R, an imaging satellite.

Earlier, ISRO Chairman K. Sivan said India`s second lunar mission, Chandrayaan-2, which was scheduled to be launched in late 2018, is now expected to be launched between March 25 and end of April this year.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated scientists of ISRO for the launch of PSLV. He said India has become the first country to use the fourth stage of a space rocket as an orbital platform for microgravity experiments.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday congratulated scientists of ISRO for the launch of PSLV. He said India has become the first country to use the fourth stage of a space rocket as an orbital platform for microgravity experiments. "Heartiest congratulations to our space scientists for yet another successful launch of PSLV. This launch has put in orbit Kalamsat, built by India's talented students. With this launch, India also becomes the first country to use the fourth stage of a space rocket as an orbital platform for microgravity experiments," the Prime Minister tweeted early on Friday. Heartiest congratulations to our space scientists for yet another successful launch of PSLV. This launch has put in orbit Kalamsat, built by India's talented students. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2019 × With this launch, India also becomes the first country to use the fourth stage of a space rocket as an orbital platform for micro-gravity experiments. @isro — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2019 × India has successfully launched its 46th flight of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C44) carrying Kalamsat, a communication satellite developed by students and India's military satellite Microsat-R from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Addressing media after the successful launch of PSLV-C44 mission, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chief K Sivan said,"The ISRO is open to all students of India. Bring to us your satellites and we will launch it for you. Let's make India into a science-fairing nation." He added,"PSLV-C44 mission successfully injected into Microsat - R. The mission is not ordinary; C44 is the first mission of PSLV-DL and is a new variant of PSLV. It's the lowest altitude the PSLV flown still now. Kalamsat which was built by space kids, they are here and congratulated them." The launch which took place at 11:37 pm is said to be unique as PSLV-C44 fourth stage was re-used automatically to launch Kalamsat payload and Microsat-R satellite into space from the First Launch Pad (FLP). PSLV is a four-stage launch vehicle with alternating solid and liquid stages. The PSLV with two strap-on configuration was identified for this mission and the configuration is designated as PSLV-DL. PSLV-C44 is the first mission of PSLV-DL and is a new variant of PSLV. In PSLV-C44, the fourth stage (PS4) of the vehicle will be moved to a higher circular orbit so as to establish an orbital platform for carrying out experiments. Kalamsat, a student payload, is the first to use PS4 as an orbital platform. PSLV-C44 also carried Microsat-R, an imaging satellite. Earlier, ISRO Chairman K. Sivan said India`s second lunar mission, Chandrayaan-2, which was scheduled to be launched in late 2018, is now expected to be launched between March 25 and end of April this year.

PM Modi lauds ISRO scientists for successful launch of PSLV-C44 mission

A rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was proposed to be held on January 28 in North 24 Parganas district's Thakurnagar area is likely to be rescheduled to February 2, a senior party leader said Wednesday.

"As of now, Prime Minister Narendra Modiji's January 28 rally at Bongoan' Thakurnagar area has been rescheduled to February 2. On February 2 he will address another rally at Durgapur and on February 8 he will address a rally at Siliguri. However, nothing is final as of now," BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha said.

This is the second time in one month that the West Bengal BJP has rescheduled Modi's rallies.

Earlier it was decided that the prime minister will address a rally at Brigade Parade Ground on February 8. It was recently cancelled and the party said he would attend three rallies in the state starting next week.

It was then decided that Modi would address a rally at Thakurnagar on January 28, another at Siliguri in north Bengal on February 2 and the third one at Asansol -- represented by Union Minister Babul Supriyo -- on February 8.

However, on Wednesday evening the state BJP announced that the dates are likely to be altered.

The BJP kick-started its Lok Sabha poll campaign in the state from Tuesday, with party president Amit Shah addressing a rally in Malda district.

Shah has set a target to win more than 23 out of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state.&nbsp;

A rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was proposed to be held on January 28 in North 24 Parganas district's Thakurnagar area is likely to be rescheduled to February 2, a senior party leader said Wednesday.

A rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was proposed to be held on January 28 in North 24 Parganas district's Thakurnagar area is likely to be rescheduled to February 2, a senior party leader said Wednesday. "As of now, Prime Minister Narendra Modiji's January 28 rally at Bongoan' Thakurnagar area has been rescheduled to February 2. On February 2 he will address another rally at Durgapur and on February 8 he will address a rally at Siliguri. However, nothing is final as of now," BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha said. This is the second time in one month that the West Bengal BJP has rescheduled Modi's rallies. Earlier it was decided that the prime minister will address a rally at Brigade Parade Ground on February 8. It was recently cancelled and the party said he would attend three rallies in the state starting next week. It was then decided that Modi would address a rally at Thakurnagar on January 28, another at Siliguri in north Bengal on February 2 and the third one at Asansol -- represented by Union Minister Babul Supriyo -- on February 8. However, on Wednesday evening the state BJP announced that the dates are likely to be altered. The BJP kick-started its Lok Sabha poll campaign in the state from Tuesday, with party president Amit Shah addressing a rally in Malda district. Shah has set a target to win more than 23 out of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

PM Modi's Bengal rally likely to be rescheduled: BJP leader

The fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi has surrendered his Indian passport to the Antiguan government, news reports said Monday morning.&nbsp;

Choksi is one of the main accused — the other being his nephew Nirav Modi — in the over Rs 13,000 crore Punjab and National Bank scam.&nbsp;

Choksi fled to Antigua in January 2018 and has been living there since.&nbsp;

He had in December last year told a Mumbai court that he cannot return to India for questioning.

Choksi said&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cant-travel-41-hours-to-reach-india-mehul-choksi-186331">his "poor health" would not allow him to undertake the 41-hour flight</a> from Antigua to India. He had however consented to being questioned via&nbsp;video&nbsp;conferencing.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said on January 1 this year that defaulters will not be spared and that his government will bring them back to India.&nbsp;

“Those who fled during this government, they will be brought back, today or tomorrow. Diplomatic channels, legal courses, and seizure of properties being done. Those who have stolen India’s money, they will have to compensate for each and every penny,'' Modi said.&nbsp;

News reports said Monday that Choksi had deposited his passport — with the number Z3396732 — and the mandatory $177 required for the giving up Indian citizenship with the Antiguan authorities.&nbsp;

Choksi, it is suspected, is looking to avoid being extradited to India by taking up Antiguan citizenship.&nbsp;A hearing on the issue is scheduled for February 22 in Antigua.&nbsp;

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Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MehulChoksi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MehulChoksi</a> : Our govt has passed Fugitive Economic Offenders bill. Those who have fled, will be brought back. It might take some time but they all will be brought back. <a href="https://t.co/w3IinkbmlC">pic.twitter.com/w3IinkbmlC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1087244568393928704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Home Minister Rajnath Singh reacted to the alleged development, telling ANI that: "Our government has passed Fugitive Economic Offenders bill. Those who have fled will be brought back. It might take some time but they all will be brought back."&nbsp;

The fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi has surrendered his Indian passport to the Antiguan government, news reports said Monday morning. Choksi is one of the main accused — the other being his nephew Nirav Modi — in the over Rs 13,000 crore Punjab and National Bank scam.

The fugitive Indian businessman Mehul Choksi has surrendered his Indian passport to the Antiguan government, news reports said Monday morning. Choksi is one of the main accused — the other being his nephew Nirav Modi — in the over Rs 13,000 crore Punjab and National Bank scam. Choksi fled to Antigua in January 2018 and has been living there since. He had in December last year told a Mumbai court that he cannot return to India for questioning. Choksi said his "poor health" would not allow him to undertake the 41-hour flight from Antigua to India. He had however consented to being questioned via video conferencing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said on January 1 this year that defaulters will not be spared and that his government will bring them back to India. “Those who fled during this government, they will be brought back, today or tomorrow. Diplomatic channels, legal courses, and seizure of properties being done. Those who have stolen India’s money, they will have to compensate for each and every penny,'' Modi said. News reports said Monday that Choksi had deposited his passport — with the number Z3396732 — and the mandatory $177 required for the giving up Indian citizenship with the Antiguan authorities. Choksi, it is suspected, is looking to avoid being extradited to India by taking up Antiguan citizenship. A hearing on the issue is scheduled for February 22 in Antigua. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on #MehulChoksi : Our govt has passed Fugitive Economic Offenders bill. Those who have fled, will be brought back. It might take some time but they all will be brought back. pic.twitter.com/w3IinkbmlC — ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2019 × Home Minister Rajnath Singh reacted to the alleged development, telling ANI that: "Our government has passed Fugitive Economic Offenders bill. Those who have fled will be brought back. It might take some time but they all will be brought back."

Trying to avoid extradition, PNB scam-accused Mehul Choksi surrenders Indian passport in Antigua: Reports

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509">Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509">border</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-temporary-protection-to-immigrants-in-return-for-his-wall-democrats-say-no-191509"> wall, Democrats say no</a>

US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pms-office-says-reports-of-parliament-seizing-control-from-govt-over-brexit-extremely-concerning-191516">UK PM's office says reports of parliament seizing control from govt over Brexit 'extremely concerning'</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May's Downing Street office said Sunday that reported plots about parliament seizing control from the government over Brexit were "extremely concerning".

Downing Street blasted reported moves by lawmakers seeking to rewrite the rules of the House of Commons in an attempt to take control of the business of the lower chamber in order to frustrate May's Brexit plans.

Groups of MPs are planning to table such amendments this week, newspapers reported Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">Those stopped from looting public money are forming '</a><a class="gr-progress" href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">mahagathbandhan</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/those-stopped-from-looting-public-money-are-forming-mahagathbandhan-pm-modi-191517">': PM Modi</a>

On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-fuel-pipeline-blast-death-toll-rises-to-73-191521">Mexico fuel pipeline blast: Death toll rises to 73</a>

At least 73 people were killed after a pipeline ruptured by suspected fuel thieves exploded in central Mexico, authorities said on Saturday, as President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended the army despite its failure to clear the site before the blast.

Forensic experts filled body bags with charred human remains in the field where the explosion occurred on Friday evening by the town of Tlahuelilpan in the state of Hidalgo, in one of the deadliest incidents to hit Mexico's troubled oil infrastructure in years.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britains-prince-philip-back-driving-after-car-crash-without-seatbelt-191512">Britain's Prince Philip back to driving after car crash — without </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britains-prince-philip-back-driving-after-car-crash-without-seatbelt-191512">seatbelt</a>

Britain's Prince Philip has been spoken to by the police for driving without a seatbelt — just two days after the 97-year-old survived a car crash.

Images published in newspapers on Sunday appeared to show Queen Elizabeth II's husband behind the wheel of his replacement sport utility vehicle.

The Duke of Edinburgh was pictured driving the new Land Rover Freelander on his wife's private Sandringham estate on Saturday.

Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for border wall, Democrats say no US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on.

Trump offers temporary protection to immigrants in return for border wall, Democrats say no US President Donald Trump on Saturday offered to temporarily shield a million immigrants from deportation if Congress authorizes funding for his Mexican border wall -- an idea Democrats rejected, making the US government shutdown likely to grind on. UK PM's office says reports of parliament seizing control from govt over Brexit 'extremely concerning' British Prime Minister Theresa May's Downing Street office said Sunday that reported plots about parliament seizing control from the government over Brexit were "extremely concerning". Downing Street blasted reported moves by lawmakers seeking to rewrite the rules of the House of Commons in an attempt to take control of the business of the lower chamber in order to frustrate May's Brexit plans. Groups of MPs are planning to table such amendments this week, newspapers reported Sunday. Those stopped from looting public money are forming 'mahagathbandhan': PM Modi On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money. Mexico fuel pipeline blast: Death toll rises to 73 At least 73 people were killed after a pipeline ruptured by suspected fuel thieves exploded in central Mexico, authorities said on Saturday, as President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador defended the army despite its failure to clear the site before the blast. Forensic experts filled body bags with charred human remains in the field where the explosion occurred on Friday evening by the town of Tlahuelilpan in the state of Hidalgo, in one of the deadliest incidents to hit Mexico's troubled oil infrastructure in years. Britain's Prince Philip back to driving after car crash — without seatbelt Britain's Prince Philip has been spoken to by the police for driving without a seatbelt — just two days after the 97-year-old survived a car crash. Images published in newspapers on Sunday appeared to show Queen Elizabeth II's husband behind the wheel of his replacement sport utility vehicle. The Duke of Edinburgh was pictured driving the new Land Rover Freelander on his wife's private Sandringham estate on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance)&nbsp;by opposition parties, calling it a combine of those he prevented from looting India.

Modi said that the ''this 'gathbandhan' is not against Modi but against the people of India. Currently, they are not even properly together and already that have started bargaining for their share.''

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PM Modi in Silvassa: This 'ganthbandhan' is not against Modi but against the people of India. Currently, they are not even properly together and already that have started bargaining for their share. <a href="https://t.co/UbpNULGgHA">pic.twitter.com/UbpNULGgHA</a>
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Modi also took potshots at the TMC's opposition rally in Kolkata while addressing a public function at Silvassa, the capital of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

''My actions against corruption have infuriated some people. It's but natural for them to get angry as I've prevented them from looting public money. Consequently, they have now formed an alliance called Mahagathbandhan,'' Modi said.

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Speaking about his 5-year term, he said, ''The previous government was only able to build 25 lakh houses in five years. However, in the last 5 years, around 1.25 crore houses have been built.

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PM Narendra Modi in Silvassa: The previous govt was only able to build 25 lakh houses in five years. However, in the last 5 years, around 1.25 crore houses have been built. <a href="https://t.co/EDCfu3D2tX">pic.twitter.com/EDCfu3D2tX</a>
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"When those involved in suffocating democracy talk of saving it, then people will say 'wah kya baat hai'," he said.

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Modi also met his mother Hiraba in Raisan village before going to Ahmedabad airport.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) by opposition parties, calling it a combine of those he prevented from looting India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) by opposition parties, calling it a combine of those he prevented from looting India. Modi said that the ''this 'gathbandhan' is not against Modi but against the people of India. Currently, they are not even properly together and already that have started bargaining for their share.'' PM Modi in Silvassa: This 'ganthbandhan' is not against Modi but against the people of India. Currently, they are not even properly together and already that have started bargaining for their share. pic.twitter.com/UbpNULGgHA — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × Modi also took potshots at the TMC's opposition rally in Kolkata while addressing a public function at Silvassa, the capital of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. ''My actions against corruption have infuriated some people. It's but natural for them to get angry as I've prevented them from looting public money. Consequently, they have now formed an alliance called Mahagathbandhan,'' Modi said. PM Modi in Silvassa: My actions against corruption have infuriated some people. It's but natural for them to get angry as I've prevented them from looting public money. Consequently, they have now formed an alliance called Mahagathbandhan pic.twitter.com/3WPyJtKRx5 — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × Speaking about his 5-year term, he said, ''The previous government was only able to build 25 lakh houses in five years. However, in the last 5 years, around 1.25 crore houses have been built. PM Narendra Modi in Silvassa: The previous govt was only able to build 25 lakh houses in five years. However, in the last 5 years, around 1.25 crore houses have been built. pic.twitter.com/EDCfu3D2tX — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × "When those involved in suffocating democracy talk of saving it, then people will say 'wah kya baat hai'," he said. PM Modi in Silvassa: Jab loktantra ka gala ghotne wale loktantra ko bachane ki baat karte toh desh ke munh se nikalta hai 'wah kya baat'. pic.twitter.com/Ac7D0e3tkt — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × Modi also met his mother Hiraba in Raisan village before going to Ahmedabad airport.

'Mahagathbandhan' is not against me but people of India: PM Modi in Gujarat

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/still-time-to-negotiate-germanys-merkel-says-after-may-loses-brexit-vote-190761">'Still time to negotiate,' Germany's Merkel says after UK PM May loses Brexit vote</a>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday that "we still have time to negotiate" after the British Parliament comprehensively rejected the Brexit deal Prime Minister Theresa May had reached with the European Union.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hardik-pandya-has-not-left-the-house-not-taking-any-calls-father-190742">Hardik has not left the house, not taking any calls: Father</a>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has suspended Hardik Pandya and batsman Lokesh Rahul from all formats of cricket over sexist comments made on a TV show. Their return in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the ICC World Cup remains a big talking point.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nairobi-attack-over-after-20-hour-siege-as-jihadists-killed-14-dead-president-kenyatta-190750">Nairobi hotel attack over after 20-hour siege, 14 dead: President Kenyatta</a>

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said Wednesday that Islamists who stormed an upmarket hotel complex, killing 14 people, had been "eliminated" after an almost 20-hour siege in which hundreds of civilians were rescued.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-registers-firs-against-2-shelter-homes-in-bihar-for-abuse-of-children-190771">Bihar: After Muzaffarpur, CBI files FIRs against 2 more shelter homes for abuse of children</a>

CBI on Wednesday registered two fresh FIRs in connection with the alleged abuse of children in shelter homes in Bihar, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-led-selection-panel-to-meet-on-january-24-to-decide-on-new-cbi-director-190766">Modi-led selection panel to meet on January 24 to decide on new CBI director</a>

The selection panel led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet on January 24 to decide on the new Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director, reported news agency ANI.

'Still time to negotiate,' Germany's Merkel says after UK PM May loses Brexit vote German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday that "we still have time to negotiate" after the British Parliament comprehensively rejected the Brexit deal Prime Minister Theresa May had reached with the European Union.

'Still time to negotiate,' Germany's Merkel says after UK PM May loses Brexit vote German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Wednesday that "we still have time to negotiate" after the British Parliament comprehensively rejected the Brexit deal Prime Minister Theresa May had reached with the European Union. Hardik has not left the house, not taking any calls: Father The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has suspended Hardik Pandya and batsman Lokesh Rahul from all formats of cricket over sexist comments made on a TV show. Their return in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the ICC World Cup remains a big talking point. Nairobi hotel attack over after 20-hour siege, 14 dead: President Kenyatta Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said Wednesday that Islamists who stormed an upmarket hotel complex, killing 14 people, had been "eliminated" after an almost 20-hour siege in which hundreds of civilians were rescued. Bihar: After Muzaffarpur, CBI files FIRs against 2 more shelter homes for abuse of children CBI on Wednesday registered two fresh FIRs in connection with the alleged abuse of children in shelter homes in Bihar, news agency PTI reported quoting officials. Modi-led selection panel to meet on January 24 to decide on new CBI director The selection panel led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet on January 24 to decide on the new Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director, reported news agency ANI.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off a new train on Balangir-Bichhupali route&nbsp;at the cost of Rs 115 crore&nbsp;in Odisha on Tuesday.

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Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bolangir-Bichhupali railway line in Odisha today. <a href="https://t.co/vyBaeJQ2an">pic.twitter.com/vyBaeJQ2an</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085052470194253824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In addition to the new train route, PM Modi also laid the foundation for the permanent building of Kendriya Vidyalaya at Sonepur at an investment of Rs 15.81 crore.&nbsp;

He also inaugurated renovation and restoration works of Nilamadhav and Siddheswar Temple in Odisha's Boudh district.&nbsp;

Informing about the event, the Prime Minister had tweeted on Monday: "There is something special about Odisha, that draws me to the state so often! Tomorrow I will be in Balangir to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development works, which will have a transformative impact on Odisha's progress."

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There is something special about Odisha, that draws me to the state so often! 
 
Tomorrow I will be in Balangir to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development works, which will have a transformative impact on Odisha’s progress.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1084850349532311552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off a new train on Balangir-Bichhupali route at the cost of Rs 115 crore in Odisha on Tuesday. Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bolangir-Bichhupali railway line in Odisha today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off a new train on Balangir-Bichhupali route at the cost of Rs 115 crore in Odisha on Tuesday. Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bolangir-Bichhupali railway line in Odisha today. pic.twitter.com/vyBaeJQ2an — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × In addition to the new train route, PM Modi also laid the foundation for the permanent building of Kendriya Vidyalaya at Sonepur at an investment of Rs 15.81 crore. He also inaugurated renovation and restoration works of Nilamadhav and Siddheswar Temple in Odisha's Boudh district. Informing about the event, the Prime Minister had tweeted on Monday: "There is something special about Odisha, that draws me to the state so often! Tomorrow I will be in Balangir to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development works, which will have a transformative impact on Odisha's progress." There is something special about Odisha, that draws me to the state so often! Tomorrow I will be in Balangir to inaugurate and lay the foundation stones for several development works, which will have a transformative impact on Odisha’s progress. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 14, 2019 ×

PM Modi flags off new train on Balangir-Bichhupali route in Odisha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kanaka-durga-one-of-the-women-who-entered-sabarimala-temple-allegedly-thrashed-by-mother-in-law-190500">the Sabarimala issue</a> will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history. Modi was speaking in Kollam, Kerala.&nbsp;

"The conduct of Kerala LDF government on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party and government. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred," Modi said.&nbsp;

Modi added that the Congress was "no better".&nbsp;

"UDF is no better. Congress has multiple stands — they say one thing in Parliament but a different thing in Pathanamthitta," he said.&nbsp;

"Our stand on this issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words," he added.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court decreed in September 2018 that women should be allowed to visit Kerala's Sabarimala temple. The temple had until then been off-limits to women between the ages of 10 and 50.&nbsp;

The reason for the ban is that it is believed that the temple deity, Lord Ayappa, has vowed to stay celibate. And that he will look at a woman only when he is ready to marry her.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court decree was met by massive resistance, with both the BJP and Congress mobilising people against it.&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan on the other hand has said repeatedly that the Supreme Court order has to be enforced.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Modi said the Left and Congress work against gender and social justice.&nbsp;

"Left and Congress make tall claims about respect to gender justice and social justice but their actions are exactly the opposite. NDA Government has been working towards abolishing Triple Talaq," Modi said.&nbsp;

"Who is opposing us on this?" he asked. "Communists and the Congress," he answered.&nbsp;

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PM in Kollam, Kerala: UDF and LDF are different in name but in neglecting Kerala's yuva shakti, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in ignoring the poor, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in cheating the people of Kerala, they are same. <a href="https://t.co/bbNuse17uV">pic.twitter.com/bbNuse17uV</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085159187427065856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi in Kerala: UDF &amp; LDF are two sides of the same old coin. Different in name, but in corruption, casteism &amp; communalism, they are same. Different in name, but in damaging Kerala's cultural fabric, they are same. Different in name, but in political violence, they are same. <a href="https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW">https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085159459301789697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi on Tuesday also referred to his government's recent 10% quota for the upper castes saying his government believed every Indian, irrespective of caste, deserved "equal opportunity".&nbsp;

And he mentioned India's upward movement in the ease of doing business rankings.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back did anyone think that India could be the fastest growing economy? In 4 years, we have made the transition from being one of the fragile five nations to the fastest growing economy. <a href="https://t.co/MxAktXE7s0">pic.twitter.com/MxAktXE7s0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085153663214063616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back, did anyone even think of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings? In fact, this term was missing from the dictionary of policymakers. In 4 years, we have moved up from rank 142 to rank 77, one of the fastest improvements in the world. <a href="https://t.co/VlHfXxAp8h">pic.twitter.com/VlHfXxAp8h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1085154379580301312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in the Sabarimala issue will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday that the conduct of the Kerala government in the Sabarimala issue will go down as one of the "most shameful" in history. Modi was speaking in Kollam, Kerala. "The conduct of Kerala LDF government on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as one of the most shameful behaviour by any party and government. We knew that communists do not respect Indian history, culture and spirituality but nobody imagined that they will have such hatred," Modi said. Modi added that the Congress was "no better". "UDF is no better. Congress has multiple stands — they say one thing in Parliament but a different thing in Pathanamthitta," he said. "Our stand on this issue has always been clear. And, the actions of our party match our words," he added. The Supreme Court decreed in September 2018 that women should be allowed to visit Kerala's Sabarimala temple. The temple had until then been off-limits to women between the ages of 10 and 50. The reason for the ban is that it is believed that the temple deity, Lord Ayappa, has vowed to stay celibate. And that he will look at a woman only when he is ready to marry her. The Supreme Court decree was met by massive resistance, with both the BJP and Congress mobilising people against it. Kerala Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan on the other hand has said repeatedly that the Supreme Court order has to be enforced. On Tuesday, Modi said the Left and Congress work against gender and social justice. "Left and Congress make tall claims about respect to gender justice and social justice but their actions are exactly the opposite. NDA Government has been working towards abolishing Triple Talaq," Modi said. "Who is opposing us on this?" he asked. "Communists and the Congress," he answered. PM in Kollam, Kerala: UDF and LDF are different in name but in neglecting Kerala's yuva shakti, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in ignoring the poor, they are same. UDF and LDF are different in name but in cheating the people of Kerala, they are same. pic.twitter.com/bbNuse17uV — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × PM Modi in Kerala: UDF & LDF are two sides of the same old coin. Different in name, but in corruption, casteism & communalism, they are same. Different in name, but in damaging Kerala's cultural fabric, they are same. Different in name, but in political violence, they are same. https://t.co/rAbyxgb3UW — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × Modi on Tuesday also referred to his government's recent 10% quota for the upper castes saying his government believed every Indian, irrespective of caste, deserved "equal opportunity". And he mentioned India's upward movement in the ease of doing business rankings. PM Narendra Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back did anyone think that India could be the fastest growing economy? In 4 years, we have made the transition from being one of the fragile five nations to the fastest growing economy. pic.twitter.com/MxAktXE7s0 — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 × PM Modi in Kollam, Kerala: 4 years back, did anyone even think of improving Ease of Doing Business rankings? In fact, this term was missing from the dictionary of policymakers. In 4 years, we have moved up from rank 142 to rank 77, one of the fastest improvements in the world. pic.twitter.com/VlHfXxAp8h — ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2019 ×

Conduct of Kerala govt on Sabarimala issue will go down in history as 'most shameful': Modi

Describing Modi government as 'kisan hiteshi' (pro-farmers), the BJP on Friday resolved at its national convention that farmers are the top-most priority of the ruling dispensation.

Months ahead of Lok Sabha polls, the convention, the "biggest ever" gathering attended by over 12,000 party members, also passed a resolution on development in rural areas, citing a host of developmental measures taken by Modi government for transforming lives in villages.&nbsp;

It came at the time when the opposition has accused the government of "betraying" farmers and various farm organisations have protested in different parts of the country.

Farm distress has been cited by Congress chief Rahul Gandhi as a key issue for the upcoming parliamentary polls.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh proposed the resolution on agriculture which was seconded by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and BJP farmer wing head Virendra Singh.&nbsp;

While the resolution on poverty alleviation was proposed by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, which was seconded by Bihar BJP chief Nityanand Rai and party's vice-president Dushyant Gautam.

Swaraj at length described the initiatives taken by the Modi government in the last four-and-half-years such as Jan Dhan Yojana under which bank accounts were opened and how these measures brought positive change in the lives of the people.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The convention with the presence of over 12000 party members is the biggest party get-together, a BJP leader said. It is expected to rejuvenate the party cadres ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The agriculture resolution lauded the government for "successfully" dealing with issues of farmers' income. The government will not just be able to reach the goal of doubling of farmers' income but would also be looking forward from there. The vision of the BJP is an independent, able, strong and prosperous farmer as annadata (food giver), who will take the country's economy to great heights, the resolution said.

The resolution described Modi government as 'kisan hiteshi' and farmers its top most priority. All speakers described Modi government as the "well-wisher" of farmer.

"Farmers are likely to get 50 per cent more benefit on their produce whereas on crops like urad and bajra the profit will be 96 per cent," Singh informed.&nbsp; 
The resolution at length compared the overall condition of agriculture sector and the support price given to farmers under the UPA rule and the NDA regime.&nbsp;

Singh said that the total budget allocation in the sector has almost doubled compared to the funds allocated during the UPA regime.

Later, addressing the press conference over the resolution, party's national general secretary Bhupendra Yadav said in case of natural disasters, the agriculture sector has got Rs 32,000 crores from National Disaster Relief Fund which is 2.5 times higher than previous government and the allocations made to states is 82 per cent more than previous government's allotment.

In 2013-14, the UPA government spent Rs 2151 crores on crop insurance which has now increased to 13,000 crores which is six times higher under Modi government, the resolution said.&nbsp;

"Earlier, they (farmers) were getting claims for minimum 50 per cent damage to their crops, whereas now, even if there is 33 per cent damage to crops, they are being benefitted, " Yadav added while briefing on the resolution.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at the Congress, Yadav asked why are farmers in Karnataka getting notices.

Listing the government's achievements, Yadav said the food grain production has increased to 11.4 per cent in 2017-18.

In horticulture, the production has shown 17.55 per cent rise.

The resolution said a total of 17.53 crores soil health cards have been distributed, helping farmers to decide on right fertilizers.&nbsp;

The party also lauded the government for taking some strong measures which include import duty on wheat increased to 20 per cent and on tur dal to 10 per cent.&nbsp;

Budget on agriculture education saw an increase of 55 per cent in 2018-2019 compared to 2013-2014, added Yadav.

Describing Modi government as 'kisan hiteshi' (pro-farmers), the BJP on Friday resolved at its national convention that farmers are the top-most priority of the ruling dispensation.

Describing Modi government as 'kisan hiteshi' (pro-farmers), the BJP on Friday resolved at its national convention that farmers are the top-most priority of the ruling dispensation. Months ahead of Lok Sabha polls, the convention, the "biggest ever" gathering attended by over 12,000 party members, also passed a resolution on development in rural areas, citing a host of developmental measures taken by Modi government for transforming lives in villages. It came at the time when the opposition has accused the government of "betraying" farmers and various farm organisations have protested in different parts of the country. Farm distress has been cited by Congress chief Rahul Gandhi as a key issue for the upcoming parliamentary polls. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh proposed the resolution on agriculture which was seconded by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and BJP farmer wing head Virendra Singh. While the resolution on poverty alleviation was proposed by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, which was seconded by Bihar BJP chief Nityanand Rai and party's vice-president Dushyant Gautam. Swaraj at length described the initiatives taken by the Modi government in the last four-and-half-years such as Jan Dhan Yojana under which bank accounts were opened and how these measures brought positive change in the lives of the people. The convention with the presence of over 12000 party members is the biggest party get-together, a BJP leader said. It is expected to rejuvenate the party cadres ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The agriculture resolution lauded the government for "successfully" dealing with issues of farmers' income. The government will not just be able to reach the goal of doubling of farmers' income but would also be looking forward from there. The vision of the BJP is an independent, able, strong and prosperous farmer as annadata (food giver), who will take the country's economy to great heights, the resolution said. The resolution described Modi government as 'kisan hiteshi' and farmers its top most priority. All speakers described Modi government as the "well-wisher" of farmer. "Farmers are likely to get 50 per cent more benefit on their produce whereas on crops like urad and bajra the profit will be 96 per cent," Singh informed. The resolution at length compared the overall condition of agriculture sector and the support price given to farmers under the UPA rule and the NDA regime. Singh said that the total budget allocation in the sector has almost doubled compared to the funds allocated during the UPA regime. Later, addressing the press conference over the resolution, party's national general secretary Bhupendra Yadav said in case of natural disasters, the agriculture sector has got Rs 32,000 crores from National Disaster Relief Fund which is 2.5 times higher than previous government and the allocations made to states is 82 per cent more than previous government's allotment. In 2013-14, the UPA government spent Rs 2151 crores on crop insurance which has now increased to 13,000 crores which is six times higher under Modi government, the resolution said. "Earlier, they (farmers) were getting claims for minimum 50 per cent damage to their crops, whereas now, even if there is 33 per cent damage to crops, they are being benefitted, " Yadav added while briefing on the resolution. Taking a dig at the Congress, Yadav asked why are farmers in Karnataka getting notices. Listing the government's achievements, Yadav said the food grain production has increased to 11.4 per cent in 2017-18. In horticulture, the production has shown 17.55 per cent rise. The resolution said a total of 17.53 crores soil health cards have been distributed, helping farmers to decide on right fertilizers. The party also lauded the government for taking some strong measures which include import duty on wheat increased to 20 per cent and on tur dal to 10 per cent. Budget on agriculture education saw an increase of 55 per cent in 2018-2019 compared to 2013-2014, added Yadav.

BJP passes resolution, terms Modi govt as pro-farmers

National Commission for Women(NCW) <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafael-deal-was-done-with-national-security-as-a-priority-nirmala-sitharaman-188252">today sent&nbsp;a notice</a> to Congress president Rahul Gandhi after he said&nbsp;at a rally in Jaipur that PM Modi had made a woman defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, referring to defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

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National Commission for Women (NCW) issues notice to Congress President Rahul Gandhi over his statement "PM ran away &amp; asked a 'mahila' (Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman) to defend him" <a href="https://t.co/xTAyqNeXg1">pic.twitter.com/xTAyqNeXg1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1083239622916886529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi hit back at a rally in Agra over&nbsp;Congress president's statement asserting that it was an "insult to all women in the country."

"They are bent upon insulting a woman defence minister," he said, without naming Rahul Gandhi.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/NCWIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCWIndia</a> will be sending a notice to <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> regarding the statement in question. <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> <a href="https://t.co/tJc6hzsdpF">https://t.co/tJc6hzsdpF</a>
— NCW (@NCWIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCWIndia/status/1082982924851527680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This is not an insult to a woman, but an insult to entire India's women power, for which these irresponsible leaders will have to pay the price," the prime minister had said.

Rekha Sharma, chairperson NCW said: What is Rahul Gandhi trying to imply with his misogynistic statement? Does he think women are weak? The irony - calling an accomplished defence minister of the largest democracy a weak person."

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What is <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rahulgandhi</a> trying to imply with his misogynistic statement- “... ek mahila say kaha meri raksha kiijiye."? Does he think women are weak? The irony- calling an accomplished defence minister of the largest democracy a weak person. <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NCWIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ncwindia</a>
— rekha sharma (@sharmarekha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sharmarekha/status/1082981959381471234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had attacked Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha during the Rafael deal declaring that he had lied about meeting French president Macron about the deal.

"We've asked explanation from Rahul Gandhi why he said what he said yesterday in his tweets. The statement was pathetic, sexist and misogynistic. That's why we've sent him a notice. He has to explain what does he mean when he is trying to talk low of women," Rekha Sharma said.

During the debate in Parliament, Sitharaman had said&nbsp;that it was a matter of “shame” that the Congress president was misleading the country on the Rafael issue. Sitharaman asked Rahul to apologise to the country from the floor of the House.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had alleged that the defence minister had “lied” in Parliament that government orders worth Rs one lakh crore were provided to HAL while demanding that she should either place the documents in support of her statement in the House or resign.

Sitharaman told the Lok Sabha in a heated reply that "doubts raised" over her statement on HAL contracts were "incorrect and misleading."

National Commission for Women(NCW) today sent a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi after he said at a rally in Jaipur that PM Modi had made a woman defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, referring to defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

National Commission for Women(NCW) today sent a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi after he said at a rally in Jaipur that PM Modi had made a woman defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, referring to defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. National Commission for Women (NCW) issues notice to Congress President Rahul Gandhi over his statement "PM ran away & asked a 'mahila' (Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman) to defend him" pic.twitter.com/xTAyqNeXg1 — ANI (@ANI) January 10, 2019 × PM Modi hit back at a rally in Agra over Congress president's statement asserting that it was an "insult to all women in the country." "They are bent upon insulting a woman defence minister," he said, without naming Rahul Gandhi. .@NCWIndia will be sending a notice to @RahulGandhi regarding the statement in question. @nsitharaman https://t.co/tJc6hzsdpF — NCW (@NCWIndia) January 9, 2019 × "This is not an insult to a woman, but an insult to entire India's women power, for which these irresponsible leaders will have to pay the price," the prime minister had said. Rekha Sharma, chairperson NCW said: What is Rahul Gandhi trying to imply with his misogynistic statement? Does he think women are weak? The irony - calling an accomplished defence minister of the largest democracy a weak person." What is @rahulgandhi trying to imply with his misogynistic statement- “... ek mahila say kaha meri raksha kiijiye."? Does he think women are weak? The irony- calling an accomplished defence minister of the largest democracy a weak person. @nsitharaman @narendramodi @ncwindia — rekha sharma (@sharmarekha) January 9, 2019 × Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had attacked Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha during the Rafael deal declaring that he had lied about meeting French president Macron about the deal. "We've asked explanation from Rahul Gandhi why he said what he said yesterday in his tweets. The statement was pathetic, sexist and misogynistic. That's why we've sent him a notice. He has to explain what does he mean when he is trying to talk low of women," Rekha Sharma said. During the debate in Parliament, Sitharaman had said that it was a matter of “shame” that the Congress president was misleading the country on the Rafael issue. Sitharaman asked Rahul to apologise to the country from the floor of the House. Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had alleged that the defence minister had “lied” in Parliament that government orders worth Rs one lakh crore were provided to HAL while demanding that she should either place the documents in support of her statement in the House or resign. Sitharaman told the Lok Sabha in a heated reply that "doubts raised" over her statement on HAL contracts were "incorrect and misleading."

NCW sends notice to Rahul Gandhi over Nirmala Sitharaman remark

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