Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Congress Sunday for dragging his parents into a political slugfest, alleging that it was being done at the behest of party chief Rahul Gandhi.

He also justified his own tirade against the Nehru-Gandhi family, pointing out that unlike his parents, they occupied top positions in politics and the government.

Congress leaders have kicked up a controversy recently by first comparing the falling value of the rupee to the advanced age of Modi's mother and then claiming that the father of the prime minister was not someone illustrious.

"What has happened to the Congress party? Naamdar (referring to Rahul Gandhi) is tacitly supporting it, and therefore, its leaders are dragging the name of my father, who passed away 30 years ago," Modi said, addressing a rally here in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh.

"The Congress is running out of steam in this election, so they have started dragging my parents into politics,'' Modi said.

"No Congressman would make such a statement against me or my family without the consent of the party president (Rahul Gandhi). It is the 'naamdar' (dynast) who is making his leaders speak against me," he added.

"My mother sits in her house, performing religious rites, confining herself to a room, and has never visited Madhya Pradesh. She does not even know the 'R' of 'rajneeti' (politics)," Modi said.

"Yesterday, they took the name of my mother and now my father. The Congress chief is behind this....Naamdar alleges that the prime minister takes the names of his family members. Yes, I have to take their names as they were in politics, unlike my family members who sit quietly in their home and do their job," he added.

"Had my parents held any public post, they should also have been criticised," the prime minister said.

"Your family has occupied top positions at the national level. The more you ask me about my performance, the onus is more on your family as well," he added.

The opposition party was left with no issues and was, therefore, indulging in this kind of an abusive rhetoric, Modi said.

"The Congress should compare its 55 years of rule with my four years (at the Centre) and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's 15 years (in the state).

"The Congress is lying so much to people that the people of Madhya Pradesh should wake up and ensure that not a single Congress candidate wins," he added.

The previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government had introduced a crop loan waiver scheme in 2008, but of the Rs 6-lakh crore agricultural debt in the country, loans of only Rs 60,000 crore were waived, the prime minister claimed.

Former Union minister Vilas Muttemwar made a controversial statement at a Congress meeting in Rajasthan Saturday.

"Who knew you (Modi) before you became the prime minister? Even now, nobody knows the name of your father, but everyone knows the name of Rahul Gandhi's father," Muttemwar was purportedly heard saying in a video that went viral.

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar had compared the falling value of the rupee to the advanced age of Modi's mother.

In his speech in Vidisha Sunday, Modi also mentioned his cabinet colleague and local MP Sushma Swaraj.

Despite health issues, Swaraj had ensured the development of the constituency, the prime minister said.

The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the results will be announced on December 11. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Congress Sunday for dragging his parents into a political slugfest, alleging that it was being done at the behest of party chief Rahul Gandhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Congress Sunday for dragging his parents into a political slugfest, alleging that it was being done at the behest of party chief Rahul Gandhi. He also justified his own tirade against the Nehru-Gandhi family, pointing out that unlike his parents, they occupied top positions in politics and the government. Congress leaders have kicked up a controversy recently by first comparing the falling value of the rupee to the advanced age of Modi's mother and then claiming that the father of the prime minister was not someone illustrious. "What has happened to the Congress party? Naamdar (referring to Rahul Gandhi) is tacitly supporting it, and therefore, its leaders are dragging the name of my father, who passed away 30 years ago," Modi said, addressing a rally here in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh. "The Congress is running out of steam in this election, so they have started dragging my parents into politics,'' Modi said. "No Congressman would make such a statement against me or my family without the consent of the party president (Rahul Gandhi). It is the 'naamdar' (dynast) who is making his leaders speak against me," he added. "My mother sits in her house, performing religious rites, confining herself to a room, and has never visited Madhya Pradesh. She does not even know the 'R' of 'rajneeti' (politics)," Modi said. "Yesterday, they took the name of my mother and now my father. The Congress chief is behind this....Naamdar alleges that the prime minister takes the names of his family members. Yes, I have to take their names as they were in politics, unlike my family members who sit quietly in their home and do their job," he added. "Had my parents held any public post, they should also have been criticised," the prime minister said. "Your family has occupied top positions at the national level. The more you ask me about my performance, the onus is more on your family as well," he added. The opposition party was left with no issues and was, therefore, indulging in this kind of an abusive rhetoric, Modi said. "The Congress should compare its 55 years of rule with my four years (at the Centre) and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's 15 years (in the state). "The Congress is lying so much to people that the people of Madhya Pradesh should wake up and ensure that not a single Congress candidate wins," he added. The previous Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government had introduced a crop loan waiver scheme in 2008, but of the Rs 6-lakh crore agricultural debt in the country, loans of only Rs 60,000 crore were waived, the prime minister claimed. Former Union minister Vilas Muttemwar made a controversial statement at a Congress meeting in Rajasthan Saturday. "Who knew you (Modi) before you became the prime minister? Even now, nobody knows the name of your father, but everyone knows the name of Rahul Gandhi's father," Muttemwar was purportedly heard saying in a video that went viral. Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar had compared the falling value of the rupee to the advanced age of Modi's mother. In his speech in Vidisha Sunday, Modi also mentioned his cabinet colleague and local MP Sushma Swaraj. Despite health issues, Swaraj had ensured the development of the constituency, the prime minister said. The 230-member Madhya Pradesh Assembly will go to the polls on November 28 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Congress dragging my parents into politics at Rahul's behest: PM Modi

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts.

The Congress chief was addressing a rally at Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, where assembly polls will be held on November 28.

"Modiji has betrayed the people on the issue of providing jobs to two crore people every year and depositing Rs 15 lakh cash into their accounts by bringing (back) black money stashed abroad," Gandhi said.

Modi, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, had prominently highlighted the issue of black money and had promised to bring it back.&nbsp;

The fear of losing the 2019 general elections has created "hatred" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mind against the Congress, Gandhi said addressing another rally at Damoh later.

The Congress chief said while Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaks with decency, Modi lacks it whenever he attacks the Congress and his family members.

"When you hear Modi's speech, he uses wrong words and speaks with hatred... And also speaks lies. The faith reposed by the people and youths in them has broken. Now, when Modi comes, people say he will speak lies," Gandhi said.

"He (Modi) speaks with hatred about me and my family, but Shivraj uses decent language. Modi doesn't know how to speak decently, but Rahul Gandhi will always maintain decency while speaking," he said.

"Though Chouhan has indulged in corruption, whenever he says anything against us, he speaks with decency," Gandhi added.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi said Saturday Prime Minister Narendra Modi has betrayed the people, claiming that he had not fulfilled promises of providing two crore jobs every year and "depositing" Rs 15 lakh in their bank accounts. The Congress chief was addressing a rally at Sagar in Madhya Pradesh, where assembly polls will be held on November 28. "Modiji has betrayed the people on the issue of providing jobs to two crore people every year and depositing Rs 15 lakh cash into their accounts by bringing (back) black money stashed abroad," Gandhi said. Modi, during the 2014 Lok Sabha election campaign, had prominently highlighted the issue of black money and had promised to bring it back. The fear of losing the 2019 general elections has created "hatred" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mind against the Congress, Gandhi said addressing another rally at Damoh later. The Congress chief said while Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan speaks with decency, Modi lacks it whenever he attacks the Congress and his family members. "When you hear Modi's speech, he uses wrong words and speaks with hatred... And also speaks lies. The faith reposed by the people and youths in them has broken. Now, when Modi comes, people say he will speak lies," Gandhi said. "He (Modi) speaks with hatred about me and my family, but Shivraj uses decent language. Modi doesn't know how to speak decently, but Rahul Gandhi will always maintain decency while speaking," he said. "Though Chouhan has indulged in corruption, whenever he says anything against us, he speaks with decency," Gandhi added.

Modi 'betrayed' people on promises of jobs, 'depositing' Rs 15 lakh in accounts: Rahul Gandhi

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's&nbsp;Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country.

"The opposition is suffering from Narendra Modi-phobia. They just want to get rid of (PM) Modi from the prime minister's post while we want to get rid of poverty, insecurity and air pollution among others," Shah said.

The BJP chief&nbsp;said the Narendra Modi government launched 129 developmental schemes in four years. "Give an account of what the four generations (of Nehru-Gandhi family) did when they ruled the country," he said.

"In a recent rally, Rahul Gandhi uttered (PM) Modi's name 44 times in his 22-minute speech. I am wondering whether he is campaigning for the BJP or the Congress," Shah said, in remarks laced with sarcasm.

He also lauded the centre for the army's surgical strike on terror launchpads across the border post the Uri attack in 2016.

"When the Uri terror attack took place, the entire country was angry. (PM) Modi ordered surgical strikes and made India the third country in the world after the US and Israel who have avenged killings of its soldiers," he said.

Shah alleged that former prime minister Manmohan Singh had left the Indian economy at ninth position in the world in 2014, which, he said, the BJP raised to sixth position.

"By the time counting of these polls is done, India would have surpassed the UK to become the fifth-largest economy in the world," he added.

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country.

The opposition is suffering from the "Narendra Modi-phobia", BJP president Amit Shah said today. Addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur ahead of the November 28 assembly election, Shah asked the Congress to give an account of what the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family did when they ruled the country. "The opposition is suffering from Narendra Modi-phobia. They just want to get rid of (PM) Modi from the prime minister's post while we want to get rid of poverty, insecurity and air pollution among others," Shah said. The BJP chief said the Narendra Modi government launched 129 developmental schemes in four years. "Give an account of what the four generations (of Nehru-Gandhi family) did when they ruled the country," he said. "In a recent rally, Rahul Gandhi uttered (PM) Modi's name 44 times in his 22-minute speech. I am wondering whether he is campaigning for the BJP or the Congress," Shah said, in remarks laced with sarcasm. He also lauded the centre for the army's surgical strike on terror launchpads across the border post the Uri attack in 2016. "When the Uri terror attack took place, the entire country was angry. (PM) Modi ordered surgical strikes and made India the third country in the world after the US and Israel who have avenged killings of its soldiers," he said. Shah alleged that former prime minister Manmohan Singh had left the Indian economy at ninth position in the world in 2014, which, he said, the BJP raised to sixth position. "By the time counting of these polls is done, India would have surpassed the UK to become the fifth-largest economy in the world," he added.

Rahul Gandhi has 'Modi-Phobia', named him 44 times in speech: Amit Shah

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the Kundli-Manesar section of the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) western peripheral expressway.

He also inaugurated the 3.2 km-long Ballabhgarh-Mujesar Metro rail link, which would facilitate travel for people of Delhi and Faridabad, and laid the foundation stone of the Shri Vishwakarma Skill University, which will come up at Dudhola in Palwal district.

The inaugurations and foundation laying stone ceremonies were done through remote from Sultanpur village of this district.

The prime minister, on his arrival at Sultanpur village in this district, went around visual art exhibition pertaining to the KMP project.

Modi was briefed by the officials about the project.

He was accompanied by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Union ministers Rao Inderjit Singh, who is a Gurgaon MP, and Birender Singh.

Haryana Governor Satyadev Narayan Arya was also present on the occasion.

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This western peripheral expressway had to be completed during commonwealth games, but we all know what was done back then, this expressway was also a victim of that: PM Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/yZbPHCdTK9">pic.twitter.com/yZbPHCdTK9</a>
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Earlier this year, Manesar to Palwal stretch of the KMP, whose entire length is 135.65 km, was opened for public, Khattar said on the occasion.

A sum of Rs 6,400 crore has been spent on the expressway project and 3,846 acres of land was acquired at a cost of Rs 2,788 crore, a Haryana government spokesperson said.

The length of the stretch from Kundli to Manesar is over 83 km. This stretch would have 14 major or minor bridges, 56 underpass or agricultural vehicular underpasses, seven intersections and seven toll plazas.

The expressway will decongest the road traffic from Delhi, especially reducing the number of trucks entering the national capital, thus helping in reducing pollution.

Besides, the project will also provide a high-speed link between northern Haryana and southern districts and give an uninterrupted high-speed link for traffic, especially commercial traffic, from Haryana to neighbouring states.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Haryana has blamed the previous Congress regime of delay in the KMP project.

The prime minister inaugurated the Rs 580 crore Metro link in Sultanpur village in the district.

Ballabhgarh becomes the fourth city in Haryana to get metro connectivity after Gurgaon, Faridabad and Bahadurgarh.

The skill university will come up over an area of 82.5 acres at a cost of Rs 989 crore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the Kundli-Manesar section of the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) western peripheral expressway. He also inaugurated the 3.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the Kundli-Manesar section of the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) western peripheral expressway. He also inaugurated the 3.2 km-long Ballabhgarh-Mujesar Metro rail link, which would facilitate travel for people of Delhi and Faridabad, and laid the foundation stone of the Shri Vishwakarma Skill University, which will come up at Dudhola in Palwal district. The inaugurations and foundation laying stone ceremonies were done through remote from Sultanpur village of this district. The prime minister, on his arrival at Sultanpur village in this district, went around visual art exhibition pertaining to the KMP project. Modi was briefed by the officials about the project. He was accompanied by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Union ministers Rao Inderjit Singh, who is a Gurgaon MP, and Birender Singh. Haryana Governor Satyadev Narayan Arya was also present on the occasion. This western peripheral expressway had to be completed during commonwealth games, but we all know what was done back then, this expressway was also a victim of that: PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/yZbPHCdTK9 — ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2018 × Earlier this year, Manesar to Palwal stretch of the KMP, whose entire length is 135.65 km, was opened for public, Khattar said on the occasion. A sum of Rs 6,400 crore has been spent on the expressway project and 3,846 acres of land was acquired at a cost of Rs 2,788 crore, a Haryana government spokesperson said. The length of the stretch from Kundli to Manesar is over 83 km. This stretch would have 14 major or minor bridges, 56 underpass or agricultural vehicular underpasses, seven intersections and seven toll plazas. The expressway will decongest the road traffic from Delhi, especially reducing the number of trucks entering the national capital, thus helping in reducing pollution. Besides, the project will also provide a high-speed link between northern Haryana and southern districts and give an uninterrupted high-speed link for traffic, especially commercial traffic, from Haryana to neighbouring states. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Haryana has blamed the previous Congress regime of delay in the KMP project. The prime minister inaugurated the Rs 580 crore Metro link in Sultanpur village in the district. Ballabhgarh becomes the fourth city in Haryana to get metro connectivity after Gurgaon, Faridabad and Bahadurgarh. The skill university will come up over an area of 82.5 acres at a cost of Rs 989 crore.

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates KMP expressway, Ballabhgarh-Mujesar Metro rail link

Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was inaugurated Saturday as the new president of the Maldives after the opposition united to dislodge pro-China strongman leader Abdulla Yameen in September elections.

Solih, 54, emerged as common opposition candidate as all key dissidents were either jailed or forced into exile by Yameen who took power following a controversial run-off in 2013.

At a special session of parliament held at the National Football Stadium in the capital Male, Solih was sworn in with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi among those in attendance.

The Maldives foreign ministry said China's culture minister Luo Shugang was also an invitee.

The United States and the European Union had threatened sanctions if the vote had not been free and fair.

Both neighbouring India and Western nations watched with concern as Yameen moved closer to Beijing which loaned the strategically placed archipelago millions of dollars for infrastructure.

"I am confident that my visit will herald a new era of even closer exchanges and cooperation between our two countries," Modi said on Facebook, especially in "infrastructure, health care, connectivity and human resource development."

Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has pledged to end what it called "China's colonialism" and to resist a "land grab" in the country which straddles key East-West shipping routes.

MDP leader and former president Mohamed Nasheed has vowed his party would reduce reliance on China and renegotiate millions of dollars in loans taken from Beijing.

Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was inaugurated Saturday as the new president of the Maldives after the opposition united to dislodge pro-China strongman leader Abdulla Yameen in September elections.

Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was inaugurated Saturday as the new president of the Maldives after the opposition united to dislodge pro-China strongman leader Abdulla Yameen in September elections. Solih, 54, emerged as common opposition candidate as all key dissidents were either jailed or forced into exile by Yameen who took power following a controversial run-off in 2013. At a special session of parliament held at the National Football Stadium in the capital Male, Solih was sworn in with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi among those in attendance. The Maldives foreign ministry said China's culture minister Luo Shugang was also an invitee. The United States and the European Union had threatened sanctions if the vote had not been free and fair. Both neighbouring India and Western nations watched with concern as Yameen moved closer to Beijing which loaned the strategically placed archipelago millions of dollars for infrastructure. "I am confident that my visit will herald a new era of even closer exchanges and cooperation between our two countries," Modi said on Facebook, especially in "infrastructure, health care, connectivity and human resource development." Solih's Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has pledged to end what it called "China's colonialism" and to resist a "land grab" in the country which straddles key East-West shipping routes. MDP leader and former president Mohamed Nasheed has vowed his party would reduce reliance on China and renegotiate millions of dollars in loans taken from Beijing.

Solih sworn in as Maldives president, replacing pro-China leader

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule.&nbsp;

Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 polls in Madhya Pradesh, Modi said the Congress, which was seeking an account of the BJP government's performance, should explain what it did for the state during its over five-decade rule.

"It is clear before you, 15 years (of the BJP rule in Madhya Pradesh) versus 55 years (of the Congress rule). And I am surprised! You should also seek an account of (the performance of) Modi. I insist on it.&nbsp;

"What have the governments of four generations of a family given to the nation and what has a chaiwala given in four years. Come on, let there be a contest," he added.

Modi said his government has ensured that every poor in the country has a bank account and it was done in just four years, while the Congress gave the slogan of 'garibi hatao' (eradicate poverty) in early 1970s, but did nothing.

"Indira Gandhi had carried out nationalisation of banks with an aim to ensure that all have access to the banking facilities. But the poor did not benefit.

"Now this government has ensured that all poor have bank accounts and we did it in just four years," he said.

"What they were unable to do in 55 years, we have done in four years including in (providing) electricity, LPG and roads, among other things," he said, listing the achievements of his government.

Calling Congress leaders "jhooth ke shehanshah" (king of lies), he alleged that their actions belie their words and it was "part of the Congress' character".

Without naming anyone, Modi said, "In Parliament, too, Congress leaders talk of love, but express anger in Madhya Pradesh."

Speaking on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20 this year, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had targeted Modi and projected the RSS, BJP and its top leaders as agents of "anger and hatred" and "thanked" them for making him understand the meaning of being a Congressman, an Indian and a Hindu and enabling him to have only "love" for them. Gandhi had reated a flutter when he went across to the treasury benches and embraced the Prime Minister.

Accusing the Congress of spreading lies, Modi on Friday said he was surprised as to how the country's oldest political party could get elected "for so many years". Modi said it was because the opposition was less powerful then and the media was not as vibrant as it is now.

"Hence, whatever lies they would serve, those would percolate down. And people would buy the lies as being truths. Now, we learn how much lies the 'shehanshah of lies' speaks, how many times and where. They must be blabbering lies when asleep," he quipped.

Hitting back at Gandhi, who termed demonetisation as the biggest scam in the history of independent India during a rally in the state, Modi said "only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying" over the note ban and not the common man.

Modi said that the common man was no longer hassled due to the note-ban exercise announced by him on November 8, 2016.

"They did face problems earlier and even we have said so, but not now," he said.

He asked the audience whether they were still facing problems due to the scrapping of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and they replied in the negative. Modi also asked whether or not it was not right to bring the money "lying under the pillows and elsewhere" into the banking system.

"Post-demonetisation only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying and not the common man," he said.

Modi hailed the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state for building roads, hospitals and other public infrastructure facilities.

The PM said the Centre was working towards achieving the goal of housing for all by 2022, when India completes 75 years of its independence.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule. Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 polls in Madhya Pradesh, Modi said the Congress, which was seeking an account of the BJP government's performance, should explain what it did for the state during its over five-decade rule. "It is clear before you, 15 years (of the BJP rule in Madhya Pradesh) versus 55 years (of the Congress rule). And I am surprised! You should also seek an account of (the performance of) Modi. I insist on it. "What have the governments of four generations of a family given to the nation and what has a chaiwala given in four years. Come on, let there be a contest," he added. Modi said his government has ensured that every poor in the country has a bank account and it was done in just four years, while the Congress gave the slogan of 'garibi hatao' (eradicate poverty) in early 1970s, but did nothing. "Indira Gandhi had carried out nationalisation of banks with an aim to ensure that all have access to the banking facilities. But the poor did not benefit. "Now this government has ensured that all poor have bank accounts and we did it in just four years," he said. "What they were unable to do in 55 years, we have done in four years including in (providing) electricity, LPG and roads, among other things," he said, listing the achievements of his government. Calling Congress leaders "jhooth ke shehanshah" (king of lies), he alleged that their actions belie their words and it was "part of the Congress' character". Without naming anyone, Modi said, "In Parliament, too, Congress leaders talk of love, but express anger in Madhya Pradesh." Speaking on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20 this year, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had targeted Modi and projected the RSS, BJP and its top leaders as agents of "anger and hatred" and "thanked" them for making him understand the meaning of being a Congressman, an Indian and a Hindu and enabling him to have only "love" for them. Gandhi had reated a flutter when he went across to the treasury benches and embraced the Prime Minister. Accusing the Congress of spreading lies, Modi on Friday said he was surprised as to how the country's oldest political party could get elected "for so many years". Modi said it was because the opposition was less powerful then and the media was not as vibrant as it is now. "Hence, whatever lies they would serve, those would percolate down. And people would buy the lies as being truths. Now, we learn how much lies the 'shehanshah of lies' speaks, how many times and where. They must be blabbering lies when asleep," he quipped. Hitting back at Gandhi, who termed demonetisation as the biggest scam in the history of independent India during a rally in the state, Modi said "only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying" over the note ban and not the common man. Modi said that the common man was no longer hassled due to the note-ban exercise announced by him on November 8, 2016. "They did face problems earlier and even we have said so, but not now," he said. He asked the audience whether they were still facing problems due to the scrapping of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and they replied in the negative. Modi also asked whether or not it was not right to bring the money "lying under the pillows and elsewhere" into the banking system. "Post-demonetisation only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying and not the common man," he said. Modi hailed the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state for building roads, hospitals and other public infrastructure facilities. The PM said the Centre was working towards achieving the goal of housing for all by 2022, when India completes 75 years of its independence.

Let there be contest to assess performance of 'family' and 'chaiwala': PM Modi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees".&nbsp;

Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University.

Taking to Twitter, he launched a tirade against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying," Shri chappan aur unke mantriyon ne chatron ko dikhaya hai ki BJP mai mantrimandal ka shighra dwar farzi degree dikha kar khulta hai. ('Mr 56' and his ministers have shown students that under the BJP fast entry gates of ministries open for those who possess fake degrees)."&nbsp;

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श्री छप्पन और उनके मंत्रियों ने छात्रों को दिखाया है कि भाजपा में मंत्रीमंडल का शीघ्र द्वार फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री दिखा कर खुलता है| 
 
शैक्षिक संस्थानों पर प्रहार और फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री वालों को सत्ता पर बिठाना RSS का पुराना सिद्धांत है| 
 
इसीलिए DU पर RSS का फ़र्जिकल स्ट्राइक जारी है| <a href="https://t.co/VrKBLtzeDF">pic.twitter.com/VrKBLtzeDF</a>
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There was no immediate comment from the Prime Minister's Office or the BJP.&nbsp;

"The RSS' has an old tradition of attacking educational institutions and helping those with fake degrees attain power.

"That is why the 'farjical strikes' of RSS continue on Delhi University," he tweeted in Hindi.

The Congress chief also tweeted a picture of Modi, Union minister Smriti Irani and ABVP's Delhi University president Ankiv Baisoya, alleging "Fake degree is in BJP's DNA".

Baisoya has stepped down from his post after reports of him possessing a fake degree.

The ABVP said Thursday DUSU president Baisoya has resigned from his post after it asked him to do so, and has also been suspended from the students outfit till an inquiry into allegations that he gained admission to the Delhi University on the basis of a fake degree.

While the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) said the decision was taken to maintain the "genuineness" of the Delhi University Students

Union (DUSU), the move drew criticism from the NSUI and AISA, which claimed it was done under pressure ahead of the high court hearing on November 20.

In a Facebook post, Baisoya said he was resigning form the post of DUSU president because he respects the mandate of Delhi University students, who voted for him.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees". Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees". Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University. Taking to Twitter, he launched a tirade against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying," Shri chappan aur unke mantriyon ne chatron ko dikhaya hai ki BJP mai mantrimandal ka shighra dwar farzi degree dikha kar khulta hai. ('Mr 56' and his ministers have shown students that under the BJP fast entry gates of ministries open for those who possess fake degrees)." श्री छप्पन और उनके मंत्रियों ने छात्रों को दिखाया है कि भाजपा में मंत्रीमंडल का शीघ्र द्वार फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री दिखा कर खुलता है| शैक्षिक संस्थानों पर प्रहार और फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री वालों को सत्ता पर बिठाना RSS का पुराना सिद्धांत है| इसीलिए DU पर RSS का फ़र्जिकल स्ट्राइक जारी है| pic.twitter.com/VrKBLtzeDF — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 16, 2018 × There was no immediate comment from the Prime Minister's Office or the BJP. "The RSS' has an old tradition of attacking educational institutions and helping those with fake degrees attain power. "That is why the 'farjical strikes' of RSS continue on Delhi University," he tweeted in Hindi. The Congress chief also tweeted a picture of Modi, Union minister Smriti Irani and ABVP's Delhi University president Ankiv Baisoya, alleging "Fake degree is in BJP's DNA". Baisoya has stepped down from his post after reports of him possessing a fake degree. The ABVP said Thursday DUSU president Baisoya has resigned from his post after it asked him to do so, and has also been suspended from the students outfit till an inquiry into allegations that he gained admission to the Delhi University on the basis of a fake degree. While the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) said the decision was taken to maintain the "genuineness" of the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU), the move drew criticism from the NSUI and AISA, which claimed it was done under pressure ahead of the high court hearing on November 20. In a Facebook post, Baisoya said he was resigning form the post of DUSU president because he respects the mandate of Delhi University students, who voted for him.

Under Modi govt, 'fast entry gates' of ministries open for those with 'fake degrees': Rahul

Ministry of External Affairs addresses press conference in Singapore

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ousted-sri-lanka-pm-wickramasinghe-calls-for-alliance-to-save-the-country-177105">Sri Lanka Supreme Court overturns President Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament</a>

The Sri Lankan Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to dissolve the island nation's parliament.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flipkart-ceo-binny-bansal-resigns-after-misconduct-probe-walmart-177091">Flipkart CEO Binny Bansal resigns after allegations of serious personal misconduct: Walmart</a>

Walmart on Tuesday announced that Flipkart CEO Binny Bansal has resigned over allegations of serious personal misconduct.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-doesnt-know-country-run-by-people-not-by-one-man-rahul-177092">Modi doesn't know country run by people, not by one man: Rahul Gandhi</a>

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a diatribe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of "misleading" people on India's development.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulberg-massacre-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-challenging-clean-chit-given-to-pm-modi-177080">Gulberg massacre: On Monday, SC to hear </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulberg-massacre-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-challenging-clean-chit-given-to-pm-modi-177080">plea</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulberg-massacre-supreme-court-to-hear-plea-challenging-clean-chit-given-to-pm-modi-177080"> challenging clean chit given to PM Modi</a>

The Supreme Court will on Monday, November 19 hear Zakia Jafri's plea challenging the clean chit given to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, other top politicians, and bureaucrats in the Gulberg massacre case.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-case-sc-defers-hear-review-petitions-on-january-22-refuses-to-stay-earlier-verdict-177077">Sabarimala case: SC to hear review petitions on January 22, refuses to stay earlier verdict</a>

The Supreme Court on Tuesday stated that it would hear the review petitions against its Sabarimala verdict on January 22, adding that it will be an open court hearing. The apex court refused to stay its earlier verdict in the case.

Sri Lanka Supreme Court overturns President Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament The Sri Lankan Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to dissolve the island nation's parliament.

Sri Lanka Supreme Court overturns President Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament The Sri Lankan Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to dissolve the island nation's parliament. Flipkart CEO Binny Bansal resigns after allegations of serious personal misconduct: Walmart Walmart on Tuesday announced that Flipkart CEO Binny Bansal has resigned over allegations of serious personal misconduct. Modi doesn't know country run by people, not by one man: Rahul Gandhi Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday launched a diatribe against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of "misleading" people on India's development. Gulberg massacre: On Monday, SC to hear plea challenging clean chit given to PM Modi The Supreme Court will on Monday, November 19 hear Zakia Jafri's plea challenging the clean chit given to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, other top politicians, and bureaucrats in the Gulberg massacre case. Sabarimala case: SC to hear review petitions on January 22, refuses to stay earlier verdict The Supreme Court on Tuesday stated that it would hear the review petitions against its Sabarimala verdict on January 22, adding that it will be an open court hearing. The apex court refused to stay its earlier verdict in the case.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to spend the festival of Diwali in Kedarnath, sources said on Monday.

Prime Minister Modi, after assuming office in 2014, has primarily spent the festival every year with soldiers and security personnel at different parts of the country.

Last year, Prime Minister Modi celebrated Diwali with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel posted in Gurez at Jammu and Kashmir`s Bandipora district and a day later he visited Kedarnath to inaugurate various development projects.

In 2016, Prime Minister Modi met jawans of the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITPB), the Indian Army and Dogra Scouts in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh on the day of Diwali.

In 2015, he visited the Dograi War Memorial in Khasa, Amritsar to celebrate Diwali with the troops.

Months after becoming Prime Minister in 2014, he had paid a surprise visit to the Siachen Base Camp to celebrate Diwali with the soldiers deployed at the World`s highest battlefield.

The festival of lights, Diwali, will be celebrated on November 7 this year.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to spend the festival of Diwali in Kedarnath, sources said on Monday. Prime Minister Modi, after assuming office in 2014, has primarily spent the festival every year with soldiers and security personnel at different parts of the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to spend the festival of Diwali in Kedarnath, sources said on Monday. Prime Minister Modi, after assuming office in 2014, has primarily spent the festival every year with soldiers and security personnel at different parts of the country. Last year, Prime Minister Modi celebrated Diwali with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel posted in Gurez at Jammu and Kashmir`s Bandipora district and a day later he visited Kedarnath to inaugurate various development projects. In 2016, Prime Minister Modi met jawans of the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITPB), the Indian Army and Dogra Scouts in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh on the day of Diwali. In 2015, he visited the Dograi War Memorial in Khasa, Amritsar to celebrate Diwali with the troops. Months after becoming Prime Minister in 2014, he had paid a surprise visit to the Siachen Base Camp to celebrate Diwali with the soldiers deployed at the World`s highest battlefield. The festival of lights, Diwali, will be celebrated on November 7 this year.

PM Modi likely to spend Diwali at Kedarnath

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Thursday alleged that the Modi government was "destroying" various institutions, amid reports that Reserve Bank was being forced to resolve differences with the Centre which has cited powers that were never used before.

AAP spokesperson Sanjay Singh also claimed the Centre has "invoked" a rare provision under section 7 of the RBI Act to "pressurise" the apex bank in its bid to benefit some businessmen, who he said is close to Modi government.

"The government is destroying various institutions. Invoking section 7 of RBI Act would end the 83-year-old autonomy of the RBI. Through this step, the Centre will direct the RBI to release funds to the banks so that they could compensate the deficit created due to huge loans given to big businessmen who are close to Modi government. This will push the country towards recession and bankruptcy," Singh alleged.

Questions are being raised over the autonomy of the RBI, with the RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya last week warning that undermining central bank's independence could be "potentially catastrophic."

However, the government Wednesday said the RBI's autonomy is "essential" and will be "nurtured".

The government is believed to have sent at least three letters on different issues under Section 7 of the RBI Act that gives it powers to issue any direction to the central bank governor on matters of public interest.

Singh said, "Those who take small loans of Rs 2-5lakh from banks have to mortgage their entire assets. But as the government fails to recover big loans from industrialists, such bad loans are recovered from people. The NPA of big industrialists has gone up to Rs 10.25 lakh crores and section 7 has been involved to compensate this".

Singh also alleged that the Rafale fighter jet deal is "Rs 36,000-crore scam".

"Government has not been disclosing the price of Rafale fighter jet because they have purchased a plane costing Rs 526 crore at an inflated price of Rs 1670 crore," he alleged.

He said there is a secret understanding between the Congress and the BJP in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, "as Prime Minister Narendra Modi never goes to campaign in the Lok Sabha constituency (Chhindwara) of state Congress president Kamal Nath".&nbsp;

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Thursday alleged that the Modi government was "destroying" various institutions, amid reports that Reserve Bank was being forced to resolve differences with the Centre which has cited powers that were never used before.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Thursday alleged that the Modi government was "destroying" various institutions, amid reports that Reserve Bank was being forced to resolve differences with the Centre which has cited powers that were never used before. AAP spokesperson Sanjay Singh also claimed the Centre has "invoked" a rare provision under section 7 of the RBI Act to "pressurise" the apex bank in its bid to benefit some businessmen, who he said is close to Modi government. "The government is destroying various institutions. Invoking section 7 of RBI Act would end the 83-year-old autonomy of the RBI. Through this step, the Centre will direct the RBI to release funds to the banks so that they could compensate the deficit created due to huge loans given to big businessmen who are close to Modi government. This will push the country towards recession and bankruptcy," Singh alleged. Questions are being raised over the autonomy of the RBI, with the RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya last week warning that undermining central bank's independence could be "potentially catastrophic." However, the government Wednesday said the RBI's autonomy is "essential" and will be "nurtured". The government is believed to have sent at least three letters on different issues under Section 7 of the RBI Act that gives it powers to issue any direction to the central bank governor on matters of public interest. Singh said, "Those who take small loans of Rs 2-5lakh from banks have to mortgage their entire assets. But as the government fails to recover big loans from industrialists, such bad loans are recovered from people. The NPA of big industrialists has gone up to Rs 10.25 lakh crores and section 7 has been involved to compensate this". Singh also alleged that the Rafale fighter jet deal is "Rs 36,000-crore scam". "Government has not been disclosing the price of Rafale fighter jet because they have purchased a plane costing Rs 526 crore at an inflated price of Rs 1670 crore," he alleged. He said there is a secret understanding between the Congress and the BJP in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh, "as Prime Minister Narendra Modi never goes to campaign in the Lok Sabha constituency (Chhindwara) of state Congress president Kamal Nath".

Centre destroying institutions like Reserve Bank of India: Aam Aadmi Party

The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The imposing monument, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/on-statue-of-unity-inaugeration-here-are-top-five-tallest-statues-in-the-world-174352">touted as the world's tallest statue</a>, is twice the height of Statue of Liberty and is built on an islet, Sadhu Bet, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district.&nbsp;

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देश को एकता के सूत्र में पिरोने वाले लौह पुरुष सरदार वल्लभभाई पटेल को उनकी जयंती पर कोटि-कोटि नमन। 
 
We bow to the great Sardar Patel, the stalwart who unified India and served the nation tirelessly, on his Jayanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1057448135960616960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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After Modi unveils the statue, three IAF planes would fly past and create the tricolour in the sky by emitting saffron, white and green colours, said an official release Tuesday.

Modi would also inaugurate the 'Wall of Unity' (a monument defining India's unity) near the statue. At that time, three Jaguar fighter jets would fly past the structure at a low altitude, said the release.

After inaugurating the Wall of Unity, Modi would offer floral tributes to Patel, whose birth anniversary falls on October 31. At the same time, two MI-17 helicopters would shower flowers on the statue, it said.

On the occasion, cultural and musical programmes will be performed by the bands of Gujarat Police, armed and paramilitary forces.

There will be dance and musical performances by artistes drawn from 29 states and two Union Territories.

Some of other major attractions include inauguration of a 17-km-long Valley of Flowers, a tent city for tourists near the statue and a museum dedicated to the life and times of Patel.

A viewing gallery at a height of 135 metres has been created inside the statue to enable tourists to have a view of the dam and nearby mountain ranges.

The statue has been built using over 70,000 tonnes of cement, 18,500 tonnes of reinforcement steel, 6,000 tonnes of structural steel and 1,700 metric tonnes of bronze, which was used for the outer cladding of the structure, according to the government statement.

The statue's construction had received opposition from some tribal groups in Narmada district.

Meanwhile, local tribal leaders have announced a boycott of Wednesday's event claiming "mass destruction" of natural resources due to the project.

In an open letter addressed to Modi, sarpanches of 22 villages situated near the Sardar Sarovar dam on the Narmada river have said villagers will not welcome the prime minister when he arrives for the function.

"We villagers want to tell you with extreme grief that we will not welcome you on October 31. Even if you come here like an unwanted guest, you are not welcome here," said the common letter signed by sarpanches of the villages of Narmada district, located around 200 km from Ahmedabad.

The area still lacks basic facilities like schools, hospitals and drinking water, they alleged.&nbsp;

The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Statue of Unity, a 182-metre giant structure built in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, will be dedicated to the nation on Wednesday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The imposing monument, touted as the world's tallest statue, is twice the height of Statue of Liberty and is built on an islet, Sadhu Bet, near the Sardar Sarovar Dam in Narmada district. देश को एकता के सूत्र में पिरोने वाले लौह पुरुष सरदार वल्लभभाई पटेल को उनकी जयंती पर कोटि-कोटि नमन। We bow to the great Sardar Patel, the stalwart who unified India and served the nation tirelessly, on his Jayanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 31, 2018 × After Modi unveils the statue, three IAF planes would fly past and create the tricolour in the sky by emitting saffron, white and green colours, said an official release Tuesday. Modi would also inaugurate the 'Wall of Unity' (a monument defining India's unity) near the statue. At that time, three Jaguar fighter jets would fly past the structure at a low altitude, said the release. After inaugurating the Wall of Unity, Modi would offer floral tributes to Patel, whose birth anniversary falls on October 31. At the same time, two MI-17 helicopters would shower flowers on the statue, it said. On the occasion, cultural and musical programmes will be performed by the bands of Gujarat Police, armed and paramilitary forces. There will be dance and musical performances by artistes drawn from 29 states and two Union Territories. Some of other major attractions include inauguration of a 17-km-long Valley of Flowers, a tent city for tourists near the statue and a museum dedicated to the life and times of Patel. A viewing gallery at a height of 135 metres has been created inside the statue to enable tourists to have a view of the dam and nearby mountain ranges. The statue has been built using over 70,000 tonnes of cement, 18,500 tonnes of reinforcement steel, 6,000 tonnes of structural steel and 1,700 metric tonnes of bronze, which was used for the outer cladding of the structure, according to the government statement. The statue's construction had received opposition from some tribal groups in Narmada district. Meanwhile, local tribal leaders have announced a boycott of Wednesday's event claiming "mass destruction" of natural resources due to the project. In an open letter addressed to Modi, sarpanches of 22 villages situated near the Sardar Sarovar dam on the Narmada river have said villagers will not welcome the prime minister when he arrives for the function. "We villagers want to tell you with extreme grief that we will not welcome you on October 31. Even if you come here like an unwanted guest, you are not welcome here," said the common letter signed by sarpanches of the villages of Narmada district, located around 200 km from Ahmedabad. The area still lacks basic facilities like schools, hospitals and drinking water, they alleged.

Modi to unveil Statue of Unity today on Sardar Patel's 143rd birth anniversary

Breaking News: 'Statue of Unity', world's tallest, unveiled by PM Narendra Modi

Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso said on Tuesday that a currency swap agreement it signed with India was intended to function as a safety net in case of a financial crisis.

Japan&nbsp;and India signed a US $75 billion bilateral currency swap agreement on Monday during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Tokyo.

The agreement will further strengthen and widen the depth and diversity of economic cooperation between the two countries.

Speaking to reporters, Aso also said the US $30 billion currency swap deal&nbsp;Japan&nbsp;signed with China last week would support&nbsp;Japanese companies and banks operating in China if they had trouble exchanging yen for yuan.

“India and Japan agreed to enter into a bilateral swap arrangement of $75 billion. This swap arrangement would be 50% higher than our last swap agreement,” finance minister Arun Jaitley tweeted.&nbsp;

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India and Japan agreed to enter into a bilateral swap arrangement of 75 billion dollars. This Swap arrangement would be 50% higher than our last Swap agreement. This bilateral swap reflects depth of our deeper economic relationship.
— Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) <a href="https://twitter.com/arunjaitley/status/1056861791198867456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is visiting Japan, and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe held delegation-level talks during which the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral, regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso said on Tuesday that a currency swap agreement it signed with India was intended to function as a safety net in case of a financial crisis.

Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso said on Tuesday that a currency swap agreement it signed with India was intended to function as a safety net in case of a financial crisis. Japan and India signed a US $75 billion bilateral currency swap agreement on Monday during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Tokyo. The agreement will further strengthen and widen the depth and diversity of economic cooperation between the two countries. Speaking to reporters, Aso also said the US $30 billion currency swap deal Japan signed with China last week would support Japanese companies and banks operating in China if they had trouble exchanging yen for yuan. “India and Japan agreed to enter into a bilateral swap arrangement of $75 billion. This swap arrangement would be 50% higher than our last swap agreement,” finance minister Arun Jaitley tweeted. India and Japan agreed to enter into a bilateral swap arrangement of 75 billion dollars. This Swap arrangement would be 50% higher than our last Swap agreement. This bilateral swap reflects depth of our deeper economic relationship. — Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) October 29, 2018 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is visiting Japan, and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe held delegation-level talks during which the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral, regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region.

India, Japan sign $75 billion currency swap agreement

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte will be on a day-long maiden visit to India today during which he will hold talks with PM Narendra Modi to boost cooperation in key areas such as trade and investment, besides participating in the India-Italy Technology Summit.

The highlight of the visit will be the Italian prime minister's participation at the 24th edition of the India-Italy Technology Summit which is being organised by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

The summit will focus on a number of areas including healthcare, aerospace, education, clean technology, renewable energy and information and communication technology.

During the Conte-Modi talks, focus is expected to be on discussing ways to boost trade and investment.<iframe data-google-container-id="6" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1068322/NDTV_News_ROS_Native_Outstream_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>

The bilateral trade between the countries increased to US $10.5 billion in 2017-18 from US $8.8 billion in the previous fiscal.

Italy is India's fifth largest trading partner in the European Union and the annual trade turnover between the two countries was USD 10.4 billion in 2017-18. Over 600 Italian companies are operating in India.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte will be on a day-long maiden visit to India today during which he will hold talks with PM Narendra Modi to boost cooperation in key areas such as trade and investment, besides participating in the India-Italy Technology Summit.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte will be on a day-long maiden visit to India today during which he will hold talks with PM Narendra Modi to boost cooperation in key areas such as trade and investment, besides participating in the India-Italy Technology Summit. The highlight of the visit will be the Italian prime minister's participation at the 24th edition of the India-Italy Technology Summit which is being organised by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The summit will focus on a number of areas including healthcare, aerospace, education, clean technology, renewable energy and information and communication technology. During the Conte-Modi talks, focus is expected to be on discussing ways to boost trade and investment. The bilateral trade between the countries increased to US $10.5 billion in 2017-18 from US $8.8 billion in the previous fiscal. Italy is India's fifth largest trading partner in the European Union and the annual trade turnover between the two countries was USD 10.4 billion in 2017-18. Over 600 Italian companies are operating in India.

On Italy prime minister-PM Modi bilateral talks, trade, energy on agenda

Addressing the Make in India event in Tokyo, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-going-through-massive-transformative-phase-today-modi-in-japan-174086">Prime Minister Modi</a> on Monday highlighted the ease of doing business in&nbsp;India and also invited the Japanese to invest in the country.

Prime Minister Modi said in order to promote the "ease of doing business"&nbsp;in the country, the Indian government has started ranking its 36 states and Union territories. The ranking&nbsp;has resulted in a healthy competition between the states and the UTs and has already started giving better results".

PM Modi said, "Some years ago, I spoke about making a mini-Japan in India. It's a matter of great happiness for me that today, you are working in an even larger number in India".

He further said, "When I took over the responsibility of the government in 2014, India was at 140th position in the 'ease of doing business' ranking of the World Bank. Now India has reached 100th position and we are working towards better ranking".

Highlighting the benefits of doing business in India, PM Modi said that low-cost manufacturing and competitive labour cost would further enhance the ease of doing business in the country. Inviting the Japanese businessmen to invest in India, he said Indian software and Japanese hardware&nbsp;will&nbsp;give great results together.

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भारत में व्यापार करने का एक फायदा Low cost manufacturing भी है। उसके पीछे भारत में Competitive Labour Cost एक बहुत बड़ी ताकत है। 
 
उसी तरह से हमारी IT industry एक बहुत बड़ी शक्ति है। मैंने पहले भी यहां आकर कहा है, हमारा Software और आपका Hardware मिल जाए, तो कमाल हो सकता है: PM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1056777368876941312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Referring to the new technological inventions like the AI, IoT, 3D Printing, Robotics in India, PM Modi said that the country was moving towards Industry 4.0. He said India&nbsp;and Japan's collaboration was going to yield better results for the two countries in the field of Electric Mobility.

The Prime Minister finally concluded by inviting Japanese businessmen to invest in the country and said he has always talked about Strong India-Strong Japan.

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मैं हमेशा ही Strong India – Strong Japan की बात करता रहा हूं। 
 
मैं आज इस अवसर पर जापान के उद्यमी वर्ग का भारत पर विशेष विश्वास करने के लिए आभार व्यक्त करता हूं। 
 
मैं आप सभी को भारत में निवेश की गति बढ़ाने के लिए भी आमंत्रित करना चाहूंगा: PM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1056778645585285120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The "Make in India: India-Japan Partnership in Africa and Digital Partnership"&nbsp;seminar held in Tokyo was also attended by&nbsp;National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

Addressing the Make in India event in Tokyo, Prime Minister Modi on Monday highlighted the ease of doing business in India and also invited the Japanese to invest in the country.

Addressing the Make in India event in Tokyo, Prime Minister Modi on Monday highlighted the ease of doing business in India and also invited the Japanese to invest in the country. Prime Minister Modi said in order to promote the "ease of doing business" in the country, the Indian government has started ranking its 36 states and Union territories. The ranking has resulted in a healthy competition between the states and the UTs and has already started giving better results". PM Modi said, "Some years ago, I spoke about making a mini-Japan in India. It's a matter of great happiness for me that today, you are working in an even larger number in India". He further said, "When I took over the responsibility of the government in 2014, India was at 140th position in the 'ease of doing business' ranking of the World Bank. Now India has reached 100th position and we are working towards better ranking". Highlighting the benefits of doing business in India, PM Modi said that low-cost manufacturing and competitive labour cost would further enhance the ease of doing business in the country. Inviting the Japanese businessmen to invest in India, he said Indian software and Japanese hardware will give great results together. भारत में व्यापार करने का एक फायदा Low cost manufacturing भी है। उसके पीछे भारत में Competitive Labour Cost एक बहुत बड़ी ताकत है। उसी तरह से हमारी IT industry एक बहुत बड़ी शक्ति है। मैंने पहले भी यहां आकर कहा है, हमारा Software और आपका Hardware मिल जाए, तो कमाल हो सकता है: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 29, 2018 × Referring to the new technological inventions like the AI, IoT, 3D Printing, Robotics in India, PM Modi said that the country was moving towards Industry 4.0. He said India and Japan's collaboration was going to yield better results for the two countries in the field of Electric Mobility. The Prime Minister finally concluded by inviting Japanese businessmen to invest in the country and said he has always talked about Strong India-Strong Japan. मैं हमेशा ही Strong India – Strong Japan की बात करता रहा हूं। मैं आज इस अवसर पर जापान के उद्यमी वर्ग का भारत पर विशेष विश्वास करने के लिए आभार व्यक्त करता हूं। मैं आप सभी को भारत में निवेश की गति बढ़ाने के लिए भी आमंत्रित करना चाहूंगा: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 29, 2018 × The "Make in India: India-Japan Partnership in Africa and Digital Partnership" seminar held in Tokyo was also attended by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

PM Modi urges Japan to invest in India

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.

PM Modi asked the people to participate in the "Run for Unity" event on October 31 which would be held on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel.

Announcing the&nbsp;unveiling of the "Statue of Unity"&nbsp;on October 31 in Gujarat's Narmada district, PM Modi said that&nbsp;Sardar Patel's birth anniversary will be even more special this year as the country would be dedicating the statue of Unity to him.

"31st October marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel, and like every year, the youth of our nation is geared up to 'Run for Unity'. I appeal each one of you to participate in 'Run for Unity' in largest possible numbers", he said.

"Sardar Patel's Jayanti this year will be even more special as on this day, we'll pay him true homage by dedicating 'Statue of Unity' to the nation. Located by the banks of river Narmada, the height of this idol is twice that of America's renowned 'Statue of Liberty'".

PM&nbsp;Modi also recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel in uniting the country. He said the&nbsp;leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India".

The "Run for Unity" marathon was flagged off by the prime minister on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel last year. He had also&nbsp;announced the day as "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas".

The marathon was introduced with the aim of having every Indian run together in a tribute to Sardar Patel.

Further hailing the victory of the athletes in Asian Para Games PM Modi said, "India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals. I was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary and inspiring."

He also&nbsp;praised the country's soldier saying that "our&nbsp;soldiers showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war".

PM Modi said, "This year November 11 holds special significance as the day when World War-I ended 100 years ago. Our soldiers fought with valour and gave supreme sacrifice and showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war".

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. PM Modi asked the people to participate in the "Run for Unity" event on October 31 which would be held on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel. Announcing the unveiling of the "Statue of Unity" on October 31 in Gujarat's Narmada district, PM Modi said that Sardar Patel's birth anniversary will be even more special this year as the country would be dedicating the statue of Unity to him. "31st October marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel, and like every year, the youth of our nation is geared up to 'Run for Unity'. I appeal each one of you to participate in 'Run for Unity' in largest possible numbers", he said. "Sardar Patel's Jayanti this year will be even more special as on this day, we'll pay him true homage by dedicating 'Statue of Unity' to the nation. Located by the banks of river Narmada, the height of this idol is twice that of America's renowned 'Statue of Liberty'". PM Modi also recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel in uniting the country. He said the leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India". The "Run for Unity" marathon was flagged off by the prime minister on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel last year. He had also announced the day as "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas". The marathon was introduced with the aim of having every Indian run together in a tribute to Sardar Patel. Further hailing the victory of the athletes in Asian Para Games PM Modi said, "India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals. I was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary and inspiring." He also praised the country's soldier saying that "our soldiers showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war". PM Modi said, "This year November 11 holds special significance as the day when World War-I ended 100 years ago. Our soldiers fought with valour and gave supreme sacrifice and showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war". (With inputs from agencies)

On 49th edition of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi hails Patel's contribution to 'united India'

Narendra Modi is the "favourite" prime ministerial candidate of Muslims for next year's Lok Sabha polls as he has dispelled the "fear" that several parties instilled in the community using his name, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said Sunday.

He said the faith in Modi among Muslims had increased, especially among the women.

"The favourite prime ministerial candidate for Muslims in the 2019 polls is Narendra Modi, because he sees all 132 crore people of the country just as Indians. Other parties have seen them as a vote bank," Hussain said.

Muslims account for around 14 per cent of India's 130 crore population and the community plays a key role in the electoral outcome in a sizeable number of Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala and Jammu and Kashmir.

Hussain blamed the Congress for the poverty and backwardness of the Muslims in the country, saying the party had done injustice to the community and Modi had given them justice.

"Some people in 2014 used to scare others using Narendra Modi's name. Today, a large number of people from the Muslim community also feel that he is a man who works day and night. Narendra Modi treats all 132 crore Indians alike," he said.

Other parties used to take votes from Muslims by spreading the "fear" of Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the prime minister had taken out that fear, Hussain said.

Now they see that Modi is in power but there is no problem, the BJP leader added.

Not a single statement was made by Modi against Muslims, he said, adding that the prime minister's "shamshan-kabristan" statement in the run-up to the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls last year was "wrongly interpreted" as he had advocated taking care of both.

"In our party, some people may be making (certain) statements, but Muslims have full faith on the statements made by BJP chief Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the former Union minister said.

"Our party president and our prime minister have never given any statement that would hurt Muslims," he claimed, asserting that the community would back the saffron party big time in the 2019 general election.

Hussain also said Allahabad's name was changed to Prayagraj as "injustice" was done in the past" and now, "justice" had been restored.

"The earlier name was Prayagraj that was changed. To correct that mistake, is it wrong?

"Earlier also, Bangalore's name was changed to Bengaluru, Madras was changed to Chennai. So, how does history come into this," he said, rebutting the Congress's charge that the Modi government was trying to rewrite history.

On the Ram temple issue, Hussain said for the BJP, it was a matter of faith and not a poll plank.

"From October 29, there will be day-to-day hearing (in the Supreme Court). We are hopeful that this issue will be resolved soon and it will be acceptable to all the people in the country.

"Some people are also demanding that a law be made (for the construction of the temple). Everybody has a right to demand, how can anybody stop that? The government has the right to decide and it has not taken any decision in this regard," he said.

Talking about the upcoming Assembly elections in five states, the BJP spokesperson exuded confidence that his party would win in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.

"In Mizoram, the government will not be formed without our support and in Telangana, we will emerge as a big party," he claimed.

Hussain also asserted that the BJP, the Janata Dal (United), the Lok Janshakti Party and the Rashtriya Lok Samta Party will fight the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar together.

He said the alliance with the Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) had boosted the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) prospects in Bihar and the coalition was focussed on "Mission 40" -- to win all the Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Asked if anti-incumbency would be a factor in Bihar, Hussain said, "I had lost from Bhagalpur by 8,000 votes and Nitish Kumarji's candidate was third, getting 1,60,000 votes. Now those votes will be added to the BJP's kitty...We will fight together and this time, it is Mission 40 -- that we win all the 40 seats."

He also claimed that issues such as rising petrol and diesel prices will not hamper the BJP's poll prospects, saying the people were aware that the fuel problem was a global one.

The Modi government will come to power with a bigger mandate in 2019, Hussain asserted.

Narendra Modi is the "favourite" prime ministerial candidate of Muslims for next year's Lok Sabha polls as he has dispelled the "fear" that several parties instilled in the community using his name, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said Sunday.

Narendra Modi is the "favourite" prime ministerial candidate of Muslims for next year's Lok Sabha polls as he has dispelled the "fear" that several parties instilled in the community using his name, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said Sunday. He said the faith in Modi among Muslims had increased, especially among the women. "The favourite prime ministerial candidate for Muslims in the 2019 polls is Narendra Modi, because he sees all 132 crore people of the country just as Indians. Other parties have seen them as a vote bank," Hussain said. Muslims account for around 14 per cent of India's 130 crore population and the community plays a key role in the electoral outcome in a sizeable number of Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala and Jammu and Kashmir. Hussain blamed the Congress for the poverty and backwardness of the Muslims in the country, saying the party had done injustice to the community and Modi had given them justice. "Some people in 2014 used to scare others using Narendra Modi's name. Today, a large number of people from the Muslim community also feel that he is a man who works day and night. Narendra Modi treats all 132 crore Indians alike," he said. Other parties used to take votes from Muslims by spreading the "fear" of Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the prime minister had taken out that fear, Hussain said. Now they see that Modi is in power but there is no problem, the BJP leader added. Not a single statement was made by Modi against Muslims, he said, adding that the prime minister's "shamshan-kabristan" statement in the run-up to the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls last year was "wrongly interpreted" as he had advocated taking care of both. "In our party, some people may be making (certain) statements, but Muslims have full faith on the statements made by BJP chief Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the former Union minister said. "Our party president and our prime minister have never given any statement that would hurt Muslims," he claimed, asserting that the community would back the saffron party big time in the 2019 general election. Hussain also said Allahabad's name was changed to Prayagraj as "injustice" was done in the past" and now, "justice" had been restored. "The earlier name was Prayagraj that was changed. To correct that mistake, is it wrong? "Earlier also, Bangalore's name was changed to Bengaluru, Madras was changed to Chennai. So, how does history come into this," he said, rebutting the Congress's charge that the Modi government was trying to rewrite history. On the Ram temple issue, Hussain said for the BJP, it was a matter of faith and not a poll plank. "From October 29, there will be day-to-day hearing (in the Supreme Court). We are hopeful that this issue will be resolved soon and it will be acceptable to all the people in the country. "Some people are also demanding that a law be made (for the construction of the temple). Everybody has a right to demand, how can anybody stop that? The government has the right to decide and it has not taken any decision in this regard," he said. Talking about the upcoming Assembly elections in five states, the BJP spokesperson exuded confidence that his party would win in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. "In Mizoram, the government will not be formed without our support and in Telangana, we will emerge as a big party," he claimed. Hussain also asserted that the BJP, the Janata Dal (United), the Lok Janshakti Party and the Rashtriya Lok Samta Party will fight the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar together. He said the alliance with the Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) had boosted the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) prospects in Bihar and the coalition was focussed on "Mission 40" -- to win all the Lok Sabha seats in the state. Asked if anti-incumbency would be a factor in Bihar, Hussain said, "I had lost from Bhagalpur by 8,000 votes and Nitish Kumarji's candidate was third, getting 1,60,000 votes. Now those votes will be added to the BJP's kitty...We will fight together and this time, it is Mission 40 -- that we win all the 40 seats." He also claimed that issues such as rising petrol and diesel prices will not hamper the BJP's poll prospects, saying the people were aware that the fuel problem was a global one. The Modi government will come to power with a bigger mandate in 2019, Hussain asserted.

Modi is favourite PM candidate of Muslims for 2019: Shahnawaz Hussain

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe in Yamanashi, Japan on Sunday.

Modi is in Japan on a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-tokyo-for-13th-india-japan-annual-summit-173867">two-day state visit</a> during which he will also attend the 13th India-Japan summit.&nbsp;The two countries have an annual summit.&nbsp;

This will be Modi's twelfth meeting with Abe since the Indian prime minister first Japan in September 2014.

Modi and Abe are expected, over the summit,&nbsp;to discuss a number of issues including defence and regional security.&nbsp;

"Landed in Tokyo. I am confident this visit will add new vigour to the strong friendship between India and Japan," Modi said in a tweet on Saturday.

In a statement on Friday, before leaving for Japan, Modi described India and Japan as a "winning combination" and said the island nation was New Delhi's most trusted partner in its economic and technological modernisation.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Prime Ministers <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AbeShinzo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AbeShinzo</a> meet at Yamanashi. They would be holding talks through the day on deepening India-Japan ties. <a href="https://t.co/T9eGZ3yuVx">pic.twitter.com/T9eGZ3yuVx</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1056401734526918656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe receives PM Narendra Modi at hotel Mount Fuji in Yamanashi <a href="https://t.co/FoablhOqlc">pic.twitter.com/FoablhOqlc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1056393984745095168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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PM Narendra Modi presented Japanese PM Shinzo Abe two handcrafted stone bowls made from rose quartz and yellow quartz stone and hand-woven Dhurries by the weavers of Mirzapur, UP, specially crafted on the occasion of his visit to Japan for India-Japan annual summit: Sources <a href="https://t.co/M9ZDaeQWIC">pic.twitter.com/M9ZDaeQWIC</a>
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On landing in Japan, Modi met with the Indian community at Tokyo's Imperial Hotel.&nbsp;

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I thank Japan's Indian community for their warm welcome. 
 
We are proud of the accomplishments of the Indian diaspora. <a href="https://t.co/N51w7nPJpo">pic.twitter.com/N51w7nPJpo</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1056194743862882304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday afternoon, Prime Minister Modi will join his Japanese counterpart for an informal lunch at a hotel. The two leaders will then visit a company which is a leading manufacturer of factory automation.

Besides bilateral issues, the two leaders are expected to deliberate on a range of regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region.

It is said the prime minister's visit will reaffirm the traditional bonds of friendship between the two countries and strengthen their multi-faceted cooperation in diverse fields.

India is also hoping to have some kind of synergy or integration between Modi's Ayushman Bharat scheme, which is the largest medicare programme of its kind globally, and the Japanese programme which is called Asia Health and Wellbeing Initiative.

Prime Minister in his statement said projects such as Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail and Dedicated Freight Corridors reflected the high level and "strength of our economic engagement".&nbsp;

"Japan is also at the forefront of engaging in our national initiatives, such as 'Make in India', 'Skill India', 'Digital India', 'Start Up India'... Japanese investors have faith in India's economic future, which is marked with myriad opportunities," Modi said. 
Modi will also address the Indian community function in Tokyo and will attend a series of business events and address the business forum.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe in Yamanashi, Japan on Sunday. Modi is in Japan on a two-day state visit during which he will also attend the 13th India-Japan summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe in Yamanashi, Japan on Sunday. Modi is in Japan on a two-day state visit during which he will also attend the 13th India-Japan summit. The two countries have an annual summit. This will be Modi's twelfth meeting with Abe since the Indian prime minister first Japan in September 2014. Modi and Abe are expected, over the summit, to discuss a number of issues including defence and regional security. "Landed in Tokyo. I am confident this visit will add new vigour to the strong friendship between India and Japan," Modi said in a tweet on Saturday. In a statement on Friday, before leaving for Japan, Modi described India and Japan as a "winning combination" and said the island nation was New Delhi's most trusted partner in its economic and technological modernisation. Prime Ministers @narendramodi and @AbeShinzo meet at Yamanashi. They would be holding talks through the day on deepening India-Japan ties. pic.twitter.com/T9eGZ3yuVx — PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 28, 2018 × #WATCH: Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe receives PM Narendra Modi at hotel Mount Fuji in Yamanashi pic.twitter.com/FoablhOqlc — ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2018 × PM Narendra Modi presented Japanese PM Shinzo Abe two handcrafted stone bowls made from rose quartz and yellow quartz stone and hand-woven Dhurries by the weavers of Mirzapur, UP, specially crafted on the occasion of his visit to Japan for India-Japan annual summit: Sources pic.twitter.com/M9ZDaeQWIC — ANI (@ANI) October 28, 2018 × On landing in Japan, Modi met with the Indian community at Tokyo's Imperial Hotel. I thank Japan's Indian community for their warm welcome. We are proud of the accomplishments of the Indian diaspora. pic.twitter.com/N51w7nPJpo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 27, 2018 × On Sunday afternoon, Prime Minister Modi will join his Japanese counterpart for an informal lunch at a hotel. The two leaders will then visit a company which is a leading manufacturer of factory automation. Besides bilateral issues, the two leaders are expected to deliberate on a range of regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region. It is said the prime minister's visit will reaffirm the traditional bonds of friendship between the two countries and strengthen their multi-faceted cooperation in diverse fields. India is also hoping to have some kind of synergy or integration between Modi's Ayushman Bharat scheme, which is the largest medicare programme of its kind globally, and the Japanese programme which is called Asia Health and Wellbeing Initiative. Prime Minister in his statement said projects such as Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail and Dedicated Freight Corridors reflected the high level and "strength of our economic engagement". "Japan is also at the forefront of engaging in our national initiatives, such as 'Make in India', 'Skill India', 'Digital India', 'Start Up India'... Japanese investors have faith in India's economic future, which is marked with myriad opportunities," Modi said. Modi will also address the Indian community function in Tokyo and will attend a series of business events and address the business forum. (With inputs from PTI)

Modi meets Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, they will discuss defence and regional security

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presented his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe two handcrafted stone bowls and dhurries made from rose quartz and yellow quartz stone sourced from Rajasthan.

A Jodhpuri wooden chest from Rajasthan with traditional work was also presented, an official said.

The gifts were specially crafted on the occasion of Modi's visit to Japan for the two-day India-Japan annual summit.&nbsp;

The bowls were crafted by master artisan Shabbirhusen Ibrahimbhai Shaikh of Gujarat's Khambhat region, which is known for its practice of stone craft since generations and is also a leading hub for exports of stone products from India.&nbsp;

"The uniqueness of this craft lies in the fact that the form of the product is scooped out from a block of stone, and then shaped and refined using basic hand tools generally without any lathe machines," the official said.&nbsp;

Hand-woven by the master weavers of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, the dhurrie designs show the diversity of possibilities available -- from a symmetrical repeating geometric tessellation in one, to stylistic floral motifs arranged around the classical medallion pattern in another.&nbsp;

"The dhurries use two distinctive Indian colour palettes. While one uses Indigo blues, reds and sprinkles of turmeric yellows, the identifying colours that have marked Indian textiles for centuries, the other uses the muted earthy tones of the Indian landscape," the official said.&nbsp;

The stone bowls and dhurries were made under the design supervision of the prestigious Ahmedabad-based National Institute of Design. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presented his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe two handcrafted stone bowls and dhurries made from rose quartz and yellow quartz stone sourced from Rajasthan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presented his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe two handcrafted stone bowls and dhurries made from rose quartz and yellow quartz stone sourced from Rajasthan. A Jodhpuri wooden chest from Rajasthan with traditional work was also presented, an official said. The gifts were specially crafted on the occasion of Modi's visit to Japan for the two-day India-Japan annual summit. The bowls were crafted by master artisan Shabbirhusen Ibrahimbhai Shaikh of Gujarat's Khambhat region, which is known for its practice of stone craft since generations and is also a leading hub for exports of stone products from India. "The uniqueness of this craft lies in the fact that the form of the product is scooped out from a block of stone, and then shaped and refined using basic hand tools generally without any lathe machines," the official said. Hand-woven by the master weavers of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, the dhurrie designs show the diversity of possibilities available -- from a symmetrical repeating geometric tessellation in one, to stylistic floral motifs arranged around the classical medallion pattern in another. "The dhurries use two distinctive Indian colour palettes. While one uses Indigo blues, reds and sprinkles of turmeric yellows, the identifying colours that have marked Indian textiles for centuries, the other uses the muted earthy tones of the Indian landscape," the official said. The stone bowls and dhurries were made under the design supervision of the prestigious Ahmedabad-based National Institute of Design.

PM Modi gifts handcrafted stone bowl, dhurries to Japanese premier

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Japan on Saturday to attend the annual summit on October 28 and 29 with his counterpart Shinzo Abe.

In a statement Friday, before leaving for Japan, Modi described India and Japan a "winning combination" and said the island nation is New Delhi's most trusted partner in its economic and technological modernisation.

He said India's partnership with Japan is of great substance and purpose.

"We have a special strategic and global partnership. Our ties with Japan, both economic and strategic, stand completely transformed in recent years. It is today a partnership of great substance and purpose. It rests on the strong pillars of India's Act East Policy, and our shared vision and commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific," he said.

Modi said it will be his 12th meeting with Abe since he first visited Japan as prime minister in September 2014.

He said, as democracies, the two countries have shared values and they seek peace and prosperity for all.

"Our complementarities make India and Japan a winning combination. Japan today is one of the most trusted partners in India's economic and technological modernisations and one of the top investors in India," he pointed out.

The PM said projects such as Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail and Dedicated Freight Corridors reflect the high level and "strength of our economic engagement".

"Japan is also at the forefront of engaging in our national initiatives, such as 'Make in India', 'Skill India', 'Digital India', 'Start-Up India'... Japanese investors have faith in India's economic future, which is marked with myriad opportunities," Modi said.

He said India values Japan's global leadership in innovation, technologies and best practices and during his visit, he will have a chance to see some of Japan's high-tech capabilities in robotics.

"I will have wide-ranging talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and interact with business leaders and captains of industry from both countries. I will also address the Indian community. These interactions will help to further strengthen our trade and investment ties, and cooperation in new areas such as healthcare, digital technologies, agriculture and food processing, disaster risk reduction and disaster resilient infrastructure," he said.&nbsp;

He recalled that last year, he had hosted Prime Minister Abe and his wife Akie Abe in his home state Gujarat.

In a special gesture, Modi will be hosted by his Japanese counterpart for a private dinner at his holiday home in the picturesque Yamanashi prefecture on October 28, which will be, perhaps, the first such reception to be extended to a foreign leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Japan on Saturday to attend the annual summit on October 28 and 29 with his counterpart Shinzo Abe. In a statement Friday, before leaving for Japan, Modi described India and Japan a "winning combination" and said the island nation is New Delhi's most trusted partner in its economic and technological modernisation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Japan on Saturday to attend the annual summit on October 28 and 29 with his counterpart Shinzo Abe. In a statement Friday, before leaving for Japan, Modi described India and Japan a "winning combination" and said the island nation is New Delhi's most trusted partner in its economic and technological modernisation. He said India's partnership with Japan is of great substance and purpose. "We have a special strategic and global partnership. Our ties with Japan, both economic and strategic, stand completely transformed in recent years. It is today a partnership of great substance and purpose. It rests on the strong pillars of India's Act East Policy, and our shared vision and commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific," he said. Modi said it will be his 12th meeting with Abe since he first visited Japan as prime minister in September 2014. He said, as democracies, the two countries have shared values and they seek peace and prosperity for all. "Our complementarities make India and Japan a winning combination. Japan today is one of the most trusted partners in India's economic and technological modernisations and one of the top investors in India," he pointed out. The PM said projects such as Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail and Dedicated Freight Corridors reflect the high level and "strength of our economic engagement". "Japan is also at the forefront of engaging in our national initiatives, such as 'Make in India', 'Skill India', 'Digital India', 'Start-Up India'... Japanese investors have faith in India's economic future, which is marked with myriad opportunities," Modi said. He said India values Japan's global leadership in innovation, technologies and best practices and during his visit, he will have a chance to see some of Japan's high-tech capabilities in robotics. "I will have wide-ranging talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and interact with business leaders and captains of industry from both countries. I will also address the Indian community. These interactions will help to further strengthen our trade and investment ties, and cooperation in new areas such as healthcare, digital technologies, agriculture and food processing, disaster risk reduction and disaster resilient infrastructure," he said. He recalled that last year, he had hosted Prime Minister Abe and his wife Akie Abe in his home state Gujarat. In a special gesture, Modi will be hosted by his Japanese counterpart for a private dinner at his holiday home in the picturesque Yamanashi prefecture on October 28, which will be, perhaps, the first such reception to be extended to a foreign leader.

PM Modi leaves for two-day visit to Japan

Citing disbursal of loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna (PMMY), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said "unprecedented" employment and entrepreneurial opportunities exist in the country today.

PM Modi addressed the employees of Hari Krishna Exports, a prominent Suarat-based diamond processing-exporting firm, through video conference from Delhi.

The company, led by&nbsp;Savji Dholakia, gifted 600 cars&nbsp;to its employees on Thursday as Diwali bonus at an event named as 'Hari Krishna Skill India Incentive Ceremony'.

"Around 14 crore loans were disbursed across the country under this (Mudra) scheme. Out of these, 40 lakh loans were given to the youth of Gujarat. In the last four years, loans worth&nbsp;Rs.&nbsp;7 lakh crore were disbursed under this scheme," PM Modi said in his speech.

"Out of all those who took loans under Mudra, over 3.5 crore youth were first-time entrepreneurs, as they have chosen the path of self-employment for the first time. Today, there exist unprecedented employment as well as entrepreneurial opportunities in the country," the prime minister said.

The prime minister said his government has been taking many steps to strengthen the gems and jewellery sector, as it is a significant generator of employment and a key contributor to the exports.

Referring to the "Main Nahin Hum" portal and app launched on Wednesday, PM Modi urged the company and its employees to dedicate some time for social causes.

He appealed that&nbsp;Dholakia and his company to set themselves a target of making at least 100 villages "digital" by 2022.

The Prime Minister will be visiting Gujarat on October 31 to dedicate the Statue of Unity of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, PM Modi said. "The biggest Diwali for Gujarat will be on October 31, when the Statue of Unity will be dedicated to the nation," he said.

Citing disbursal of loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna (PMMY), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said "unprecedented" employment and entrepreneurial opportunities exist in the country today.

Citing disbursal of loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna (PMMY), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said "unprecedented" employment and entrepreneurial opportunities exist in the country today. PM Modi addressed the employees of Hari Krishna Exports, a prominent Suarat-based diamond processing-exporting firm, through video conference from Delhi. The company, led by Savji Dholakia, gifted 600 cars to its employees on Thursday as Diwali bonus at an event named as 'Hari Krishna Skill India Incentive Ceremony'. "Around 14 crore loans were disbursed across the country under this (Mudra) scheme. Out of these, 40 lakh loans were given to the youth of Gujarat. In the last four years, loans worth Rs. 7 lakh crore were disbursed under this scheme," PM Modi said in his speech. "Out of all those who took loans under Mudra, over 3.5 crore youth were first-time entrepreneurs, as they have chosen the path of self-employment for the first time. Today, there exist unprecedented employment as well as entrepreneurial opportunities in the country," the prime minister said. The prime minister said his government has been taking many steps to strengthen the gems and jewellery sector, as it is a significant generator of employment and a key contributor to the exports. Referring to the "Main Nahin Hum" portal and app launched on Wednesday, PM Modi urged the company and its employees to dedicate some time for social causes. He appealed that Dholakia and his company to set themselves a target of making at least 100 villages "digital" by 2022. The Prime Minister will be visiting Gujarat on October 31 to dedicate the Statue of Unity of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, PM Modi said. "The biggest Diwali for Gujarat will be on October 31, when the Statue of Unity will be dedicated to the nation," he said.

India has unprecedented employment opportunities: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday honoured the survivours of 1959 Ladakh's Hot Spring attack, on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day.

Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani paid tributes to the policemen killed in an ambush by Chinese troops, who had violated Indian Territory in Aksai Chin area, on this day in 1959.

The Prime Minister marking the National Police Commemoration Day also inaugurated a 30-feet-tall and 238-tonne heavy black granite central sculpture honouring the slain troopers, a museum and a wall of valour bearing the names of over 34,800 martyred personnel.

Until the autumn of 1959, the Indian Police personnel were responsible for manning the 2,500-mile long border of India with Tibet. On October 20, 1959, three reconnaissance parties were launched from Hot Springs in preparation for further movement of an Indian expedition which was on its way to Lanak La. Two parties returned to Hot Springs by the afternoon of that day, while the third one comprising of two police constables and a porter did not return.

A party of about 20 personnel of the Intelligence Bureau and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) led by Karam Singh, DCIO proceeded ahead on horseback, while others followed on foot in three Sections.

At about midday, Chinese Army personnel on a hillock opened fire and threw grenades at the party and since there was no cover, most personnel were injured.

10 police personnel died, seven were taken as prisoners by the Chinese and the remaining managed to escape.

Bodies of the 10 personnel were returned by the Chinese only on November 28, 1959, after full five weeks of the incident.

Since then October 21 is observed as Commemoration Day in all Police Lines throughout India to mark the memory of these policemen who were killed in Ladakh and all other police personnel killed on duty during the year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday honoured the survivours of 1959 Ladakh's Hot Spring attack, on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day. Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani paid tributes to the policemen killed in an ambush by Chinese troops, who had violated Indian Territory in Aksai Chin area, on this day in 1959.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday honoured the survivours of 1959 Ladakh's Hot Spring attack, on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day. Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani paid tributes to the policemen killed in an ambush by Chinese troops, who had violated Indian Territory in Aksai Chin area, on this day in 1959. The Prime Minister marking the National Police Commemoration Day also inaugurated a 30-feet-tall and 238-tonne heavy black granite central sculpture honouring the slain troopers, a museum and a wall of valour bearing the names of over 34,800 martyred personnel. Until the autumn of 1959, the Indian Police personnel were responsible for manning the 2,500-mile long border of India with Tibet. On October 20, 1959, three reconnaissance parties were launched from Hot Springs in preparation for further movement of an Indian expedition which was on its way to Lanak La. Two parties returned to Hot Springs by the afternoon of that day, while the third one comprising of two police constables and a porter did not return. A party of about 20 personnel of the Intelligence Bureau and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) led by Karam Singh, DCIO proceeded ahead on horseback, while others followed on foot in three Sections. At about midday, Chinese Army personnel on a hillock opened fire and threw grenades at the party and since there was no cover, most personnel were injured. 10 police personnel died, seven were taken as prisoners by the Chinese and the remaining managed to escape. Bodies of the 10 personnel were returned by the Chinese only on November 28, 1959, after full five weeks of the incident. Since then October 21 is observed as Commemoration Day in all Police Lines throughout India to mark the memory of these policemen who were killed in Ladakh and all other police personnel killed on duty during the year.

PM Modi honours survivors of 1959 Ladakh's Hot Spring attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil Wickremesinghe on Saturday and discussed a range of issues related to bilateral ties, including the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation.

The two leaders held talks at the Hyderabad House here on the third day and final day of the Sri Lankan Prime Minister's India visit.

"Special place in our hearts for Sri Lanka. PM Narendra Modi welcomes the Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe. At the delegation level talks, the leaders took stock of the entire range of our bilateral relations, specially the development projects in Sri Lanka," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted along with pictures of the two leaders at the Hyderabad House.

During the visit, the two sides reviewed the status of the India-assisted housing projects in Jaffna. They were also expected to deliberate on the Tamil issue -- the reconciliation process and devolution of powers in Tamil-dominated areas.

Wickremesinghe's India visit comes in the backdrop of controversial media reports that Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has accused Indian intelligence agency RAW of plotting his assassination, a claim firmly rejected as "false" by Colombo.

Earlier in the day, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj also separately called on the visiting Lankan leader.

Wickremesinghe and Singh discussed issues related to security and anti-terror cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.

In her meeting with the Lankan premier, Swaraj also reviewed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation.

Wickremesinghe arrived here on Thursday on a three-day visit to boost ties in a range of areas, including trade, investment and maritime security.

On Friday, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi met Wickremesinghe and discussed cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil Wickremesinghe on Saturday and discussed a range of issues related to bilateral ties, including the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil Wickremesinghe on Saturday and discussed a range of issues related to bilateral ties, including the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation. The two leaders held talks at the Hyderabad House here on the third day and final day of the Sri Lankan Prime Minister's India visit. "Special place in our hearts for Sri Lanka. PM Narendra Modi welcomes the Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe. At the delegation level talks, the leaders took stock of the entire range of our bilateral relations, specially the development projects in Sri Lanka," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted along with pictures of the two leaders at the Hyderabad House. During the visit, the two sides reviewed the status of the India-assisted housing projects in Jaffna. They were also expected to deliberate on the Tamil issue -- the reconciliation process and devolution of powers in Tamil-dominated areas. Wickremesinghe's India visit comes in the backdrop of controversial media reports that Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has accused Indian intelligence agency RAW of plotting his assassination, a claim firmly rejected as "false" by Colombo. Earlier in the day, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj also separately called on the visiting Lankan leader. Wickremesinghe and Singh discussed issues related to security and anti-terror cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. In her meeting with the Lankan premier, Swaraj also reviewed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation. Wickremesinghe arrived here on Thursday on a three-day visit to boost ties in a range of areas, including trade, investment and maritime security. On Friday, former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi met Wickremesinghe and discussed cooperation between the two countries.

PM Modi holds talk with Sri Lankan counterpart; discusses India-assisted development projects in Lanka

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-30-feared-dead-in-railway-crossing-accident-in-amritsar-172370">Amritsar train accident</a> and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said.

More than 50 people were killed and 72 injured Friday evening after a crowd of Dussehra revellers, who had spilled onto railway tracks while watching burning of a Ravana effigy, was run over by a train in Amritsar.

The train was coming from Jalandhar. The incident happened at Joda Phatak where at least 300 people were watching 'Ravana dahan' at a ground near the railway tracks.

"Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching," Modi tweeted earlier this evening.

"My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," he said.

Railways has issued helpline numbers 0183-2223171, 0183-2564485&nbsp;for information on the incident.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday announced all possible assistance by the Centre to Punjab as a large number of Dussehra revellers standing across railway tracks were mowed down by a passing train near Amritsar.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh separately announced a compensation of Rs five lakh each to the kin of the deceased.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the Amritsar train accident and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the Amritsar train accident and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said. More than 50 people were killed and 72 injured Friday evening after a crowd of Dussehra revellers, who had spilled onto railway tracks while watching burning of a Ravana effigy, was run over by a train in Amritsar. The train was coming from Jalandhar. The incident happened at Joda Phatak where at least 300 people were watching 'Ravana dahan' at a ground near the railway tracks. "Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching," Modi tweeted earlier this evening. "My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," he said. Railways has issued helpline numbers 0183-2223171, 0183-2564485 for information on the incident. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday announced all possible assistance by the Centre to Punjab as a large number of Dussehra revellers standing across railway tracks were mowed down by a passing train near Amritsar. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh separately announced a compensation of Rs five lakh each to the kin of the deceased.

Modi approves financial relief of Rs 2 lakh to kin of dead in Amritsar train accident

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday sought views of IT professionals on how the technology and electronic manufacturing sectors can help in making a "new India".

"Dear professionals associated with the IT sector, technocrats and tech-lovers, I have a request...Have a look at this Open Forum on the 'Narendra Modi Mobile App' and share your views," he tweeted.

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Dear professionals associated with the IT sector, technocrats and tech-lovers, I have a request... 
 
Have a look at this Open Forum on the 'Narendra Modi Mobile App' and share your views! <a href="https://t.co/X1pperOlCR">https://t.co/X1pperOlCR</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1053135290922160128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He gave a link which takes people to the Narendra Modi app.

It says, on October 24, the prime minister will address a huge "townhall" with people associated with IT and electronic manufacturing sector.

Professionals, experts and technocrats from all over India will take part in the event, it says.

They will discuss with the him, ways through which the vibrant IT and electronic manufacturing sector can undertake initiatives and volunteer to contribute in building a "new India".

"Here's urging everyone to share thoughts and views on the subject. You may also share your inspiring stories of those you know are volunteering actively," the write up on the app says.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday sought views of IT professionals on how the technology and electronic manufacturing sectors can help in making a "new India".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday sought views of IT professionals on how the technology and electronic manufacturing sectors can help in making a "new India". "Dear professionals associated with the IT sector, technocrats and tech-lovers, I have a request...Have a look at this Open Forum on the 'Narendra Modi Mobile App' and share your views," he tweeted. Dear professionals associated with the IT sector, technocrats and tech-lovers, I have a request... Have a look at this Open Forum on the 'Narendra Modi Mobile App' and share your views! https://t.co/X1pperOlCR — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 19, 2018 × He gave a link which takes people to the Narendra Modi app. It says, on October 24, the prime minister will address a huge "townhall" with people associated with IT and electronic manufacturing sector. Professionals, experts and technocrats from all over India will take part in the event, it says. They will discuss with the him, ways through which the vibrant IT and electronic manufacturing sector can undertake initiatives and volunteer to contribute in building a "new India". "Here's urging everyone to share thoughts and views on the subject. You may also share your inspiring stories of those you know are volunteering actively," the write up on the app says.

PM Modi seeks views on how IT, electronic sectors can help make 'new India'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join a flag-hoisting ceremony at Red Fort on October 21 to mark the 75th anniversary of the 'Azad Hind government' headed by Subhas Chandra Bose, he announced Wednesday.

PM Modi stated this in a video interaction with Bharatiya Janata Party workers during which he spoke at length about his government's works to celebrate the contributions of many personalities who, he said, were neglected by the Congress in its rule of several decades.

He also hit out at the Congress over its criticism of him and the BJP government in Gujarat over Sardar Patel's statue project, claiming that the opposition party was in fact insulting Patel as it always had contempt for the country's first home minister, credited for uniting hundreds of princely states.

History knows that the Congress had a lot of contempt for Patel and it could never tolerate him being recognised for his works, Modi said, attacking the opposition party for its "Made in China" jibe at the project.&nbsp;

The Statue of Unity, said to be tallest in the world, will help the young generations appreciate Patel's contributions, he added.

While the Congress neglected the likes of Bhim Rao Ambedkar, Bose and Patel, the BJP believed in remembering everybody who contributed to nation-building, he said, citing his government's works, including constructing museums for noted tribal personalities and developing five places linked to Dalit icon Ambedkar.

"We respect everybody who served the country," he said while noting that he recently inaugurated a statue of Sir Chhotu Ram in Haryana.&nbsp;

He was a multi-faceted personality and people should read about him, Modi said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join a flag-hoisting ceremony at Red Fort on October 21 to mark the 75th anniversary of the 'Azad Hind government' headed by Subhas Chandra Bose, he announced Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join a flag-hoisting ceremony at Red Fort on October 21 to mark the 75th anniversary of the 'Azad Hind government' headed by Subhas Chandra Bose, he announced Wednesday. PM Modi stated this in a video interaction with Bharatiya Janata Party workers during which he spoke at length about his government's works to celebrate the contributions of many personalities who, he said, were neglected by the Congress in its rule of several decades. He also hit out at the Congress over its criticism of him and the BJP government in Gujarat over Sardar Patel's statue project, claiming that the opposition party was in fact insulting Patel as it always had contempt for the country's first home minister, credited for uniting hundreds of princely states. History knows that the Congress had a lot of contempt for Patel and it could never tolerate him being recognised for his works, Modi said, attacking the opposition party for its "Made in China" jibe at the project. The Statue of Unity, said to be tallest in the world, will help the young generations appreciate Patel's contributions, he added. While the Congress neglected the likes of Bhim Rao Ambedkar, Bose and Patel, the BJP believed in remembering everybody who contributed to nation-building, he said, citing his government's works, including constructing museums for noted tribal personalities and developing five places linked to Dalit icon Ambedkar. "We respect everybody who served the country," he said while noting that he recently inaugurated a statue of Sir Chhotu Ram in Haryana. He was a multi-faceted personality and people should read about him, Modi said.

Will attend flag hoisting ceremony at Red Fort on October 21: PM Modi

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief Upendra Kushwaha has dismissed speculation he would exit the ruling NDA, asserting his party stands committed to the alliance and is working to ensure a second five-year term for Narendra Modi as prime minister.

Kushwaha emphasized his party will take forward its "Halla Bol, Darwaza Khol" campaign with full determination to ensure representation of every section of society in higher judiciary.

In an interview to PTI-Bhasha, he said, "The NDA alliance is moving forward strongly, we are and we will remain committed to making it even stronger."

Asked about his remark that milk from Yadavs and rice from Kushwahas can help prepare delicious "kheer" (rice pudding), the minister of state for human resource development said, "The remark was taken out of context. The message was for society, this was not a political comment".

He said if every section of society contributes some ingredients to prepare kheer, it will help cement the social fabric and the country will together move ahead.

He said if a Yaduvanshi contributes milk, a Brahmin sends sugar, a person from the backward community gives dry fruits, Tulsi leaves come from the home of a Dalit person, the kheer prepared by this method and savoured on a dastarkhan of a Muslim brother will make the country stronger.

"And this is also the intent of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," Kushwaha said, referring to Prime Minister Modi's slogan about collective effort for inclusive growth. 
The Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief said his previous kheer remark had no political context but people are free to speculate.

Asked about the indication by Tejaswi Yadav and other RJD leaders that he will join the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, Kushwaha said, "They will be disappointed".

On seat-sharing arrangement with the BJP, he said talks are on and all discussions will happen on the right forum.

He said his party's objective is to ensure all-round development, education for all and protecting the interests of the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes.

For social justice, Kushwaha stressed, the biggest issue was ensuring representation of every section of society in higher judiciary which is difficult to achieve through the existing collegium system.

The collegium system of appointing judges is undemocratic and his party has launched the "Halla Bol, Darwaza Khol" campaign to open the doors of higher judiciary to common people, he said.

In the coming days, he said, his party will take the campaign forward strongly.

The Union minister from Bihar also raised questions on the law and order situation in the state and said he was not the only one worried, but Chief Minister Nitish Kumar too has expressed concern on the matter during a meeting with senior police officers.

The situation is not satisfactory and this cannot be denied, Kushwaha said.

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief Upendra Kushwaha has dismissed speculation he would exit the ruling NDA, asserting his party stands committed to the alliance and is working to ensure a second five-year term for Narendra Modi as prime minister.

Union minister and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief Upendra Kushwaha has dismissed speculation he would exit the ruling NDA, asserting his party stands committed to the alliance and is working to ensure a second five-year term for Narendra Modi as prime minister. Kushwaha emphasized his party will take forward its "Halla Bol, Darwaza Khol" campaign with full determination to ensure representation of every section of society in higher judiciary. In an interview to PTI-Bhasha, he said, "The NDA alliance is moving forward strongly, we are and we will remain committed to making it even stronger." Asked about his remark that milk from Yadavs and rice from Kushwahas can help prepare delicious "kheer" (rice pudding), the minister of state for human resource development said, "The remark was taken out of context. The message was for society, this was not a political comment". He said if every section of society contributes some ingredients to prepare kheer, it will help cement the social fabric and the country will together move ahead. He said if a Yaduvanshi contributes milk, a Brahmin sends sugar, a person from the backward community gives dry fruits, Tulsi leaves come from the home of a Dalit person, the kheer prepared by this method and savoured on a dastarkhan of a Muslim brother will make the country stronger. "And this is also the intent of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," Kushwaha said, referring to Prime Minister Modi's slogan about collective effort for inclusive growth. The Rashtriya Lok Samta Party chief said his previous kheer remark had no political context but people are free to speculate. Asked about the indication by Tejaswi Yadav and other RJD leaders that he will join the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, Kushwaha said, "They will be disappointed". On seat-sharing arrangement with the BJP, he said talks are on and all discussions will happen on the right forum. He said his party's objective is to ensure all-round development, education for all and protecting the interests of the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. For social justice, Kushwaha stressed, the biggest issue was ensuring representation of every section of society in higher judiciary which is difficult to achieve through the existing collegium system. The collegium system of appointing judges is undemocratic and his party has launched the "Halla Bol, Darwaza Khol" campaign to open the doors of higher judiciary to common people, he said. In the coming days, he said, his party will take the campaign forward strongly. The Union minister from Bihar also raised questions on the law and order situation in the state and said he was not the only one worried, but Chief Minister Nitish Kumar too has expressed concern on the matter during a meeting with senior police officers. The situation is not satisfactory and this cannot be denied, Kushwaha said.

RLSP stands with NDA, committed to make Modi PM again: Upendra Kushwaha

Congress president Rahul Gandhi took another potshot at Prime Minister Narendra Modi (and Anil Ambani) in Rajasthan's Dholpur on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"Modiji took out Rs 45,000 crore from pockets of farmers and poor and gave to Anil Ambani," Gandhi said.&nbsp;

"I asked him in Parliament why did he give the contract to him? I looked him in the eye but he looked here and there. Nation saw that he couldn't look youth of India in the eye," Gandhi added.&nbsp;

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Modi ji took out Rs 45,000 Cr from pockets of farmers&amp;poor &amp; gave to Anil Ambani. I asked him in Parliament why did he give the contract to him? I looked him in the eye but he looked here&amp;there. Nation saw that he couldn't look youth of India in the eye: Rahul Gandhi in Rajasthan <a href="https://t.co/kt7051Plxw">pic.twitter.com/kt7051Plxw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049559901826150400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rahul was addressing a campaign rally. Rajasthan will go to the polls on December 7. The results will be out four days later on December 11.&nbsp;

He also said he wanted the ubiquitiuos words "Made in China" replaced by "Made in Dholpur", "Made in Jaipur", or "Made in Rajasthan".&nbsp;

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I want that when someone takes a selfie in China, he would see the words 'Made in Dholpur' written at the back of the phone &amp; wonder where it is. Then we bring him to Rajasthan as a tourist, put his money in your pocket &amp; send him back by flight: Rahul Gandhi in Dholpur,Rajasthan <a href="https://t.co/3mRLrpim6C">pic.twitter.com/3mRLrpim6C</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049564393158189056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"You are taking a selfie, if you turn the phone you will find 'Made in China' written on it. I want 'Made in Dholpur', 'Made in Rajasthan', 'Made in Jaipur' written on it," Gandhi said.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi took another potshot at Prime Minister Narendra Modi (and Anil Ambani) in Rajasthan's Dholpur on Tuesday. "Modiji took out Rs 45,000 crore from pockets of farmers and poor and gave to Anil Ambani," Gandhi said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi took another potshot at Prime Minister Narendra Modi (and Anil Ambani) in Rajasthan's Dholpur on Tuesday. "Modiji took out Rs 45,000 crore from pockets of farmers and poor and gave to Anil Ambani," Gandhi said. "I asked him in Parliament why did he give the contract to him? I looked him in the eye but he looked here and there. Nation saw that he couldn't look youth of India in the eye," Gandhi added. Modi ji took out Rs 45,000 Cr from pockets of farmers&poor & gave to Anil Ambani. I asked him in Parliament why did he give the contract to him? I looked him in the eye but he looked here&there. Nation saw that he couldn't look youth of India in the eye: Rahul Gandhi in Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/kt7051Plxw — ANI (@ANI) October 9, 2018 × Rahul was addressing a campaign rally. Rajasthan will go to the polls on December 7. The results will be out four days later on December 11. He also said he wanted the ubiquitiuos words "Made in China" replaced by "Made in Dholpur", "Made in Jaipur", or "Made in Rajasthan". I want that when someone takes a selfie in China, he would see the words 'Made in Dholpur' written at the back of the phone & wonder where it is. Then we bring him to Rajasthan as a tourist, put his money in your pocket & send him back by flight: Rahul Gandhi in Dholpur,Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/3mRLrpim6C — ANI (@ANI) October 9, 2018 × "You are taking a selfie, if you turn the phone you will find 'Made in China' written on it. I want 'Made in Dholpur', 'Made in Rajasthan', 'Made in Jaipur' written on it," Gandhi said.

Nation saw Modi couldn't look youth of India in the eye: Rahul Gandhi

Karnataka BJP president&nbsp;B S Yeddyurappa Monday rubbished reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the state, terming it "far from the truth".

He said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates for the November 3 assembly and parliamentary by-polls in the state will be finalised at the party's core committee meeting on Wednesday.

"All this is far from the truth, unnecessarily such news is being spread. There is no substance in it," the former chief minister told reporters in response to a question about Modi contesting from Karnataka.

There were reports in certain sections of the local media that with an aim to increase BJP's influence in the South, Modi was likely to contest from one of the southern states, most probably from Karnataka along with Varanasi, the seat that he currently represents.

BJP is presently not in power in any of the south Indian states.

Karnataka is the only state where the party has considerable presence and has had its government in the past.

Yeddyurappa, who has been meeting several party leaders regarding finalising candidates for the Lok Sabha and assembly by-election, ssaid it would be finalised by Wednesday.

"Day after tomorrow (Wednesday) evening, we have called a core committee meeting where we will finalise our candidates for the three Lok Sabha constituencies and two Vidhan Sabha constituencies and send it to our national president for approval," he said.

Discussions have taken place about candidates for almost all constituencies that would go for the by-polls, the BJP leader said, adding, "We will hold further discussions today and tomorrow before finalising the names".&nbsp;

The Election Commission on Saturday had announced the bye-elections in three Lok Sabha constituencies (Shivamogga, Ballari and Mandya) and two assembly constituencies (Ramanagara and Jamkhandi). The elections will be held on November 3 and counting of votes will take place on November 6.

The by-elections had been necessitated after BJPs B S Yeddyurappa (Shivamogga) and B Sriramalu (Ballari), and C S Puttaraju of JD(S) (Mandya) resigned as MPs on their election to the assembly in May last.&nbsp;

Bypolls to Jamkhandi assembly seat was necessitated following the death of Congress MLA Siddu Nyamagouda, while Ramanagara fell vacant as Chief Minister H D

Kumaraswamy gave up the seat and retained Channapatna, the other segment won by him in the assembly elections.&nbsp;

Karnataka BJP president B S Yeddyurappa Monday rubbished reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the state, terming it "far from the truth".

Karnataka BJP president B S Yeddyurappa Monday rubbished reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be contesting the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the state, terming it "far from the truth". He said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates for the November 3 assembly and parliamentary by-polls in the state will be finalised at the party's core committee meeting on Wednesday. "All this is far from the truth, unnecessarily such news is being spread. There is no substance in it," the former chief minister told reporters in response to a question about Modi contesting from Karnataka. There were reports in certain sections of the local media that with an aim to increase BJP's influence in the South, Modi was likely to contest from one of the southern states, most probably from Karnataka along with Varanasi, the seat that he currently represents. BJP is presently not in power in any of the south Indian states. Karnataka is the only state where the party has considerable presence and has had its government in the past. Yeddyurappa, who has been meeting several party leaders regarding finalising candidates for the Lok Sabha and assembly by-election, ssaid it would be finalised by Wednesday. "Day after tomorrow (Wednesday) evening, we have called a core committee meeting where we will finalise our candidates for the three Lok Sabha constituencies and two Vidhan Sabha constituencies and send it to our national president for approval," he said. Discussions have taken place about candidates for almost all constituencies that would go for the by-polls, the BJP leader said, adding, "We will hold further discussions today and tomorrow before finalising the names". The Election Commission on Saturday had announced the bye-elections in three Lok Sabha constituencies (Shivamogga, Ballari and Mandya) and two assembly constituencies (Ramanagara and Jamkhandi). The elections will be held on November 3 and counting of votes will take place on November 6. The by-elections had been necessitated after BJPs B S Yeddyurappa (Shivamogga) and B Sriramalu (Ballari), and C S Puttaraju of JD(S) (Mandya) resigned as MPs on their election to the assembly in May last. Bypolls to Jamkhandi assembly seat was necessitated following the death of Congress MLA Siddu Nyamagouda, while Ramanagara fell vacant as Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy gave up the seat and retained Channapatna, the other segment won by him in the assembly elections.

Yeddyurappa rubbishes reports of Modi contesting LS polls from Karnataka

The US State Department has told WION that it urges all "allies and partners to forego transactions with Russia that would trigger sanctions".&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday signed a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to buy the S-400 Triumf missile defence system from Russia.&nbsp;

India wishes to use the missile defence system, which will cost it over $5 billion, to bolster its defences along its China border. China already has the system.&nbsp;

The deal however could invoke sanctions by the US under CAATSA or Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. CAATSA says sanctions are to be imposed against any country getting a significant portion of its military hardware from Russia. &nbsp;

‎"We urge all of our allies and partners to forego transactions with Russia that would trigger sanctions," the US State Department told WION on Saturday.&nbsp;

US lawmakers have earlier hinted that the possible sanctions against India may be waived but on Saturday the State Department told WION that there are "strict criteria for considering a waiver".&nbsp;

On Friday, the US embassy in Delhi had said the intent of CAATSA was to impose costs on Russia for "its malign behavior, including by stopping the flow of money to Russia’s defence sector".&nbsp;

The embassy had added that "CAATSA is not intended to impose damage to the military capabilities of our allies or partners".

The US State Department has told WION that it urges all "allies and partners to forego transactions with Russia that would trigger sanctions". Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday signed a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to buy the S-400 Triumf missile defence system from Russia.

The US State Department has told WION that it urges all "allies and partners to forego transactions with Russia that would trigger sanctions". Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on Friday signed a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to buy the S-400 Triumf missile defence system from Russia. India wishes to use the missile defence system, which will cost it over $5 billion, to bolster its defences along its China border. China already has the system. The deal however could invoke sanctions by the US under CAATSA or Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. CAATSA says sanctions are to be imposed against any country getting a significant portion of its military hardware from Russia. ‎"We urge all of our allies and partners to forego transactions with Russia that would trigger sanctions," the US State Department told WION on Saturday. US lawmakers have earlier hinted that the possible sanctions against India may be waived but on Saturday the State Department told WION that there are "strict criteria for considering a waiver". On Friday, the US embassy in Delhi had said the intent of CAATSA was to impose costs on Russia for "its malign behavior, including by stopping the flow of money to Russia’s defence sector". The embassy had added that "CAATSA is not intended to impose damage to the military capabilities of our allies or partners".

US State Dept to WION: Urge allies to forego transactions with Russia that will trigger sanctions

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