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

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

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

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

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

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

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

News brief: Big stories of the day

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should Congress sacrifice itself to keep Narendra Modi out?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled Sunday the project to manufacture the AK-203 Kalashnikov rifle in UP's Amethi. The AK-203, a successor to the iconic AK-47, will be manufactured along with a Russian firm.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Smriti Irani were also present&nbsp;

"One of the most advanced rifles in world AK-203 will be made in Amethi. It will be made by a joint venture of India and Russia. I express my gratitude to my friend President Vladimir Putin, this venture was made possible in such a short time by his support," Modi said Sunday.&nbsp;

"The factory will provide new opportunities for the youth in Amethi and will also open doors for new country's development and security, " he added.&nbsp;

He also said&nbsp;that though they lost the election in Amethi, their party won the hearts of the people.

"In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for the development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here."&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi is the MP from Amethi.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Amethi: We might have lost election here but we won your hearts. In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here. <a href="https://t.co/IPoaMQWN2Y">pic.twitter.com/IPoaMQWN2Y</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1102181575024734208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Attacking the Congress he said, "The army in 2005 had told the government about their requirement for modern weapons, the MP from Amethi had also inaugurated it in 2007 and the work was expected to start from 2010. Three years since the inauguration, the government could not decide on what type of arms and ammunition to be made".

He further targetted the Congress and said, "Some people have the tendency to forget the public after getting their votes. They want to keep the poor in poverty so they can say 'gareebi hatao' generation after generation. We are giving strength to the poor to bring them out of poverty".

PM Modi was in Amethi to launch several development projects. He was also accompanied with Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Smriti Irani and Nirmala Sitharaman.

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

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

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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday welcomed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wing-commander-abhinandan-varthaman-returns-to-india-from-pakistan-200585">Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman </a>back to India, saying the nation is proud of his exemplary courage.

He said the country's armed forces are an inspiration for the 130 crore Indians.

"Welcome Home Wing Commander Abhinandan! The nation is proud of your exemplary courage. Our armed forces are an inspiration for 130 crore Indians. Vande Mataram," he tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Welcome Home Wing Commander Abhinandan! 
 
The nation is proud of your exemplary courage. 
 
Our armed forces are an inspiration for 130 crore Indians. 
 
Vande Mataram!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1101521097323958272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman returned home from Pakistan on Friday to a hero's welcome, two days after he was captured following a dogfight when his MiG 21 was shot down.

Pakistani officials handed over Varthaman to Indian officials, including from the IAF, at the Attari-Wagah Border.&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi washed the feet of five safai karamcharis at the Kumbh mela on Sunday. Modi posted a video of the incident on Twitter.&nbsp;

Modi met the safai karamcharis (sweepers) to give them the "Swachh Kumbh, Swachh Aabhaar" award, a recognition of their effort at keeping the Kumbh premises clean — a gargantuan undertaking considering a grand total of some 150 million people are expected to attend the religious gathering this year.&nbsp;

In the video posted by Modi, he is seen approaching the karamcharis.&nbsp;

Modi sits on a low stool — the safai karamcharis are seated in chairs — and begins to wash their feet.&nbsp;

These are "Moments I’ll cherish for my entire life!", Modi said on Twitter while posting the video.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Moments I’ll cherish for my entire life! 
 
Honouring remarkable Safai Karamcharis, who have taken the lead when it comes to realising the dream of a Swachh Bharat! 
 
I salute each and every person making a contribution towards a Swachh Bharat <a href="https://t.co/IsjuCgjlkn">pic.twitter.com/IsjuCgjlkn</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1099646962901622784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Twitter of course has been agog since then:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I am salute Prime minister Narendra modi . Narendra modi India's most likely prime minister. He was respect safai karmchari
— Pramod Thorat (@PramodT68025074) <a href="https://twitter.com/PramodT68025074/status/1099664054652567552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Salute …… to our PM Narendra Modi who washed to feet of Safai Karmchari at Praygraj to pay gratitude for their whole hearted work at KumbhMela on behalf of whole nation
— INDIA now MODIfied (@sarjukalaria) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarjukalaria/status/1099639722668888065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Do you believe job of a Safai Karmchari is lesser than yours? Modi has achieved big in his sanitation mission. Sanitation workers should be paid well. By the way manual scavenging is banned. Few are still doing it for good money being offered for such job. No compulsion.
— saroj indian (@Saroj_ini) <a href="https://twitter.com/Saroj_ini/status/1099853398717943809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

There has also been criticism:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
दलितों और पिछड़ों को सम्मान भरा रोजगार चाहिए, आपका बाह्मणवाद नहीं। 
Keep your casteism away, Modiji. Give us our land, respect, and jobs! <a href="https://t.co/iU5LdtHgmj">https://t.co/iU5LdtHgmj</a>
— Jignesh Mevani (@jigneshmevani80) <a href="https://twitter.com/jigneshmevani80/status/1099707610423541761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Modi also presented the safai karamcharis with angvastrams.&nbsp;

In a tweet, he said he prayed for the well-being of 130 crore Indians at the Sangam.

He described all those, who have been involved in ensuring the best of arrangements for the devotees gathering at Prayagraj for the Kumbh, as "real karma-yogis".

In this context, he mentioned the NDRF, the boatmen, the local population, and the sanitation workers as well.

"No one can know the labour they (safai karamcharis) have put in the Kumbh. Cleanliness has been the trademark of this Kumbh," Modi said addressing the Swachh Kumbh, Swachh Aabhaar programme.

"It is my wish that your blessings remain with me and I continue to work for you."

He said no stone was left unturned to make this "Divya Kumbh" and "Bhavya (grand) Kumbh", and this Kumbh will also be remembered as "digital Kumbh"

Modi also performed a Ganga aarti on Sunday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BJP's association with the Shiv Sena goes beyond politics and is bound by a desire to see a strong India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Monday after the two parties agreed to contest the Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections together.

He said the decision to contest together strengthens the NDA significantly.

"I am sure our alliance is going to be Maharashtra's first and only choice," the PM tweeted.

"Inspired by the vision of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bal Thackeray, BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will continue working for the well-being of Maharashtra and ensuring the state once again elects representatives who are development oriented, non-corrupt and proud of India's cultural ethos," he wrote.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Inspired by the vision of Atal Ji and Balasaheb Thackeray Ji, BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will continue working for the well-being of Maharashtra and ensuring the state once again elects representatives who are development oriented, non corrupt and proud of India’s cultural ethos.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1097518253751132162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

He also said the BJP's association with the Shiv Sena goes beyond politics.

"We are bound by a desire to see a strong and developed India," Modi said.

Ruling allies BJP and Shiv Sena, whose relations have been strained for quite some time, Monday announced a tie-up for the coming Lok Sabha and Maharashtra Assembly elections.

The BJP will contest 25 seats and Shiv Sena 23 of 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra.

The two parties will contest an equal number of seats, along with their other allies, in elections for the 288-member state Assembly, due this year.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First Rafale aircraft set to be delivered in September in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condoled the loss of lives in a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-9-dead-as-fire-breaks-out-in-karol-baghs-hotel-196800"> massive fire incident</a> in a central <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karol-bagh-fire-delhi-government-cancels-fourth-anniversary-celebrations-announces-5-lakh-compensation-196894">Delhi</a> hotel early Tuesday.

"Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a fire at Karol Bagh in Delhi. I convey my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives," he tweeted.

He wished for speedy recovery of the injured.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to a fire at Karol Bagh in Delhi. 
 
I convey my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. 
 
May the injured recover soon: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1095197717851078657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

At least 17 people were killed in the fire at Arpit Palace Hotel on Gurudwara Road in Karol Bagh.

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

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

PM Modi condoles loss of lives in Delhi hotel fire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mamata government defamed Bengal, left people helpless: PM Modi

modi

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