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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Education Policy focusses on how to think: PM Modi

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

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

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

Ahmedabad COVID-19 hospital fire leaves eight patients dead

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

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

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

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

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

Three new COVID-19 testing facilities inaugurated in India

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gravitas: Is China driving India out of Iran?

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

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

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

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

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

PM Modi's keynote address at the UN ECOSOC segment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Ladakh highlights the strong contrast between him and Chinese President Xi Jinping. WION's Palki Sharma brings you the tale of the two leaders.

Gravitas: The stark contrast between Xi Jinping & Narendra Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaches Ladakh to review the situation of the ongoing face-off between Indian and Chinese forces. The prime minister was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and Army chief MM Naravane. Sources said 14 Corps Commander briefed them about the situation on the ground.

Indian PM Narendra Modi reaches Ladakh to review situation

Amid the India-China standoff along the Line of Control(LAC), India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi today made a surprise visit to Ladakh to meets troops. Addressing troops at Ladakh amid the India-China standoff at LAC after the Galwan Valley clash with Chinese troops, PM Modi said: "The era of expansion has ended, now is the era of development, the idea of expansionism always destroys the world."

Indian PM Modi to soldiers: Your courage is higher than the mountains where you are posted

Indian PM Modi addresses soldiers in Ladakh amid India-China standoff

Any kind of escalation from either side should be avoided on the border, China said on Friday (July 3), after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise visit to Leh and Ladakh and was briefed by senior officers in Nimu amid ongoing tensions with China.

China reacts to Indian PM Modi's Ladakh visit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Leh in Ladakh to review the situation of the ongoing face-off between Indian and Chinese forces. The prime minister was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and Army chief MM Naravane. Sources said 14 Corps Commander briefed them about the situation on the ground.

Indian PM Modi interacts with troops in Ladakh amid standoff with China

In this segment, watch press briefing by Chinese foreign ministry. The briefing focussed on protests in Hong Kong against new security law and the ongoing India-China tensions.

China: 'Western countries trying to smear us will not succeed'

On Thursday morning, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched&nbsp;"Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan" through a video conference, along with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;

The programme has been launched with the aim of helping 1.25 crore migrant workers who have lost their jobs due to the nationwide lockdown that was initiated to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttar-pradesh-yogi-adityanath-signs-mou-to-generate-11-lakh-jobs-301814">Also read|&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Adityanath signs MoU to generate 11 lakh jobs</a>

"During the COVID-19 crisis, the way the Prime Minister has shown the direction to the country and gave the message of 'Jaan bhi aur Jahaan bhi'&nbsp;is highly appreciable. Following a similar direction, Uttar Pradesh is working for the welfare of its labourers by providing them employment," said Yogi Adityanath.

"Over 35 lakh migrants returned to Uttar Pradesh and over 30 lakh migrant workers were also covered under skill mapping," he added.

The programme will create jobs for the displaced and unemployed migrants labourers, and also aims at establishing&nbsp;partnerships with industry and other organisations.

In order to generate employment with a thrust towards creating infrastructure in backward regions of the country, Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan was launched on June 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

On Thursday morning, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched "Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan" through a video conference, along with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

On Thursday morning, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched "Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan" through a video conference, along with the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The programme has been launched with the aim of helping 1.25 crore migrant workers who have lost their jobs due to the nationwide lockdown that was initiated to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. Also read| Uttar Pradesh: Yogi Adityanath signs MoU to generate 11 lakh jobs "During the COVID-19 crisis, the way the Prime Minister has shown the direction to the country and gave the message of 'Jaan bhi aur Jahaan bhi' is highly appreciable. Following a similar direction, Uttar Pradesh is working for the welfare of its labourers by providing them employment," said Yogi Adityanath. "Over 35 lakh migrants returned to Uttar Pradesh and over 30 lakh migrant workers were also covered under skill mapping," he added. The programme will create jobs for the displaced and unemployed migrants labourers, and also aims at establishing partnerships with industry and other organisations. In order to generate employment with a thrust towards creating infrastructure in backward regions of the country, Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan was launched on June 20. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi launches 'Atma Nirbhar UP Rojgar Abhiyan'

Indian embassy officials in Beijing have said the speech of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to chief ministers on June 18 as well as the comments by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been deleted from two Chinese social media accounts, including Weibo.

The move comes in the backdrop of the violent face-off between the Indian and Chinese armies in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on Monday in which 20 Indian military personnel were killed, significantly escalating the already volatile situation in the region.

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Indian Embassy officials said the transcript of the remarks of the MEA spokesman Anurag Srivastava were found to have been removed from the Embassy's account of Sina Weibo on June 18.

After that the Indian officials re-published the screen shots of Srivastava's comments on June 19.

Sina Weibo which is similar to Twitter in China has millions of users and all embassies in Beijing besides several world leaders including Prime Minister Modi have opened their accounts to interact with the Chinese people.

The MEA spokesperson's remarks have also been removed from the official WeChat account. A note on WeChat says, "unable to view this content because it violates regulations."

In his comments, Srivastava had asked China to confine its activities to its side of the Line of Actual Control and that it must not take any unilateral action to alter it.

Prime Minister Modi's remarks of June 18 about the Indian soldiers killed in the Galwan Valley clash has also become inaccessible on WeChat. The page says that the "content has been deleted by the author," whereas the Embassy officials said they have not removed it.

Emphasising that the sacrifice of Indian soldiers killed in the Galwan Valley clash in Ladakh will not go in vain, Modi said that India wants peace but is capable of giving a befitting reply, if instigated.

Both the Weibo pages of the Indian embassy and its WeChat group have thousands of followers.

While the Weibo page was opened earlier, the WeChat group started in January this year.

Modi opened an account in Weibo during his visit here in 2015 and continued to make use of it to interact with the Chinese people. No posts related to the recent military confrontation were posted on his page.

Twenty Indian Army personnel, including a Colonel, were killed in the clashes with the Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on Monday night.

While China has acknowledged casualties on their side, it has not specified the numbers. Beijing has not made any official statement on the casualties suffered by the People's Liberation Army during the face-off with the Indian Army.&nbsp;

Indian embassy officials in Beijing have said the speech of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to chief ministers on June 18 as well as the comments by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been deleted from two Chinese social media accounts, including Weibo.

Indian embassy officials in Beijing have said the speech of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to chief ministers on June 18 as well as the comments by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been deleted from two Chinese social media accounts, including Weibo. The move comes in the backdrop of the violent face-off between the Indian and Chinese armies in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on Monday in which 20 Indian military personnel were killed, significantly escalating the already volatile situation in the region. Indian Embassy officials said the transcript of the remarks of the MEA spokesman Anurag Srivastava were found to have been removed from the Embassy's account of Sina Weibo on June 18. After that the Indian officials re-published the screen shots of Srivastava's comments on June 19. Sina Weibo which is similar to Twitter in China has millions of users and all embassies in Beijing besides several world leaders including Prime Minister Modi have opened their accounts to interact with the Chinese people. The MEA spokesperson's remarks have also been removed from the official WeChat account. A note on WeChat says, "unable to view this content because it violates regulations." In his comments, Srivastava had asked China to confine its activities to its side of the Line of Actual Control and that it must not take any unilateral action to alter it. Prime Minister Modi's remarks of June 18 about the Indian soldiers killed in the Galwan Valley clash has also become inaccessible on WeChat. The page says that the "content has been deleted by the author," whereas the Embassy officials said they have not removed it. Emphasising that the sacrifice of Indian soldiers killed in the Galwan Valley clash in Ladakh will not go in vain, Modi said that India wants peace but is capable of giving a befitting reply, if instigated. Both the Weibo pages of the Indian embassy and its WeChat group have thousands of followers. While the Weibo page was opened earlier, the WeChat group started in January this year. Modi opened an account in Weibo during his visit here in 2015 and continued to make use of it to interact with the Chinese people. No posts related to the recent military confrontation were posted on his page. Twenty Indian Army personnel, including a Colonel, were killed in the clashes with the Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on Monday night. While China has acknowledged casualties on their side, it has not specified the numbers. Beijing has not made any official statement on the casualties suffered by the People's Liberation Army during the face-off with the Indian Army.

Chinese social media sites delete PM Modi's speech, MEA spokesman's remarks on border crisis

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the all-party meeting on the situation at the Ladakh border amid clashes with Chinese troops.

PM Modi chairs all-party meet today | India-China standoff

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