<p>India's Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar has slammed Gemini, Google's new artificial intelligence (AI) chat product over a response linking Prime Minister Nadrendra Modi to fascism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chandrasekhar said last week that Gemini is violating Indian information technology laws and criminal codes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fuss began when an AI-generated response from Gemini claimed that some experts feel PM Modi's policies are "fascist". The response sparked a conflict between the tech giant and the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/googles-ai-model-gemini-faces-shut-down-calls-after-refusing-to-answer-whether-musk-or-hitler-is-worse-693924">'Who is worse? Musk or Hitler?' Google's AI model Gemini faces shutdown calls for refusing to answer question</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In exact words, the user asked, "Is modi a fascist?".</p>

<p>In response, Gemini AI said that the Indian PM had "been accused of implementing policies that some experts have characterised as fascist".&nbsp;</p>

<p>While further commenting on the "fascist" label,&nbsp;Gemini stated that the reason&nbsp;behind this was the ruling party's "Hindu nationalist ideology, its crackdown on dissent and its use of violence against religious minorities".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports claimed that the IT ministry is in the process of issuing a notice to Google over a "problematic and illegal" response.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chandrasekhar said on X, "These are direct violations of Rule 3(1)(b) of [the IT Rules, 2021] and violations of several provisions of the Criminal code."&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Govt has said this bfr- I repeat for attn of <a href="https://twitter.com/GoogleIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GoogleIndia</a>.<br />
<br />
➡️Our DigitalNagriks are NOT to be experimented on with "unreliable" platforms/algos/model⛔️<br />
<br />
➡️Safety &amp; Trust is platforms legal obligation✅️<br />
<br />
➡️"Sorry Unreliable" does not exempt from law⛔️<a href="https://t.co/LcjJZmZ3Qp">https://t.co/LcjJZmZ3Qp</a></p>
— Rajeev Chandrasekhar 🇮🇳 (@Rajeev_GoI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Rajeev_GoI/status/1761319148485746986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2024</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>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-initiates-testing-phase-for-ask-ai-tool-comparable-to-chatgpt-693434">Apple initiates testing phase for 'Ask', AI tool comparable to ChatGPT</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is Rule 3(1)(b)?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Rule 3(1)(b) of the IT Rules states that online platforms should inform users "not to host, display, upload, modify… or share any information that… belongs to another person,… is grossly harmful, defamatory, obscene, pornographic, paedophilic, or otherwise unlawful in any manner".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Google said in a blogpost that some cases led the AI model to "overcompensate" and "be over-conservative in others, leading to images that were embarrassing and wrong".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Google said it had rectified the issue and was trying to enhance the system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement released on February 23, the firm said, "Gemini is built as a creativity and productivity tool and may not always be reliable, especially when it comes to responding to some prompts about current events, political topics, or evolving news."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


India's Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar has slammed Gemini, Google's new artificial intelligence (AI) chat product over a response linking Prime Minister Nadrendra Modi to fascism.

India's Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar has slammed Gemini, Google's new artificial intelligence (AI) chat product over a response linking Prime Minister Nadrendra Modi to fascism. Chandrasekhar said last week that Gemini is violating Indian information technology laws and criminal codes. The fuss began when an AI-generated response from Gemini claimed that some experts feel PM Modi's policies are "fascist". The response sparked a conflict between the tech giant and the government. Also read: 'Who is worse? Musk or Hitler?' Google's AI model Gemini faces shutdown calls for refusing to answer question In exact words, the user asked, "Is modi a fascist?". In response, Gemini AI said that the Indian PM had "been accused of implementing policies that some experts have characterised as fascist". While further commenting on the "fascist" label, Gemini stated that the reason behind this was the ruling party's "Hindu nationalist ideology, its crackdown on dissent and its use of violence against religious minorities". Media reports claimed that the IT ministry is in the process of issuing a notice to Google over a "problematic and illegal" response. Chandrasekhar said on X, "These are direct violations of Rule 3(1)(b) of [the IT Rules, 2021] and violations of several provisions of the Criminal code." Govt has said this bfr- I repeat for attn of @GoogleIndia. ➡️Our DigitalNagriks are NOT to be experimented on with "unreliable" platforms/algos/model⛔️ ➡️Safety & Trust is platforms legal obligation✅️ ➡️"Sorry Unreliable" does not exempt from law⛔️https://t.co/LcjJZmZ3Qp — Rajeev Chandrasekhar 🇮🇳 (@Rajeev_GoI) February 24, 2024 × Also read: Apple initiates testing phase for 'Ask', AI tool comparable to ChatGPT What is Rule 3(1)(b)? Rule 3(1)(b) of the IT Rules states that online platforms should inform users "not to host, display, upload, modify… or share any information that… belongs to another person,… is grossly harmful, defamatory, obscene, pornographic, paedophilic, or otherwise unlawful in any manner". Google said in a blogpost that some cases led the AI model to "overcompensate" and "be over-conservative in others, leading to images that were embarrassing and wrong". Google said it had rectified the issue and was trying to enhance the system. In a statement released on February 23, the firm said, "Gemini is built as a creativity and productivity tool and may not always be reliable, especially when it comes to responding to some prompts about current events, political topics, or evolving news." (With inputs from agencies)

Google AI tool’s ‘fascist Modi’ response angers India. Here’s what exactly happened

<p>Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who is visiting India, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 29). He said they discussed artificial intelligence (AI) for public good, women-led development and innovation in agriculture and health.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On his official social media platform X, Gates wrote, "It is always inspiring to meet with Narendra Modi and there was a lot to discuss."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We talked about AI for public good; DPI; women-led development; innovation in agriculture, health, and climate adaptation; and how we can take lessons from India to the world," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While replying to his post, PM Modi wrote, "A wonderful meeting indeed! Always a delight to discuss sectors which will make our planet better and empower millions of people across the globe."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eli-lilly-ceo-foresees-launch-of-obesity-medicine-in-india-by-next-year-report-695205">Eli Lilly CEO foresees launch of obesity medicine in India by next year: Report</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A wonderful meeting indeed! Always a delight to discuss sectors which will make our planet better and empower millions of people across the globe. <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BillGates</a> <a href="https://t.co/IKFM7lEMOX">https://t.co/IKFM7lEMOX</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1763258490989027611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 29, 2024</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>

<p>Previously, Gates shared a video on Instagram with Sunil Patil, a popular tea seller in Nagpur. Patil is popularly known as 'Dolly Chaiwalla'. Gates also praised India's innovation culture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In India, you can find innovation everywhere you turn, even in preparation of a simple cup of tea," Gates said in a post shared along with the video, which was shot in Hyderabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-philanthropy-report-2024-hnis-and-affluent-take-the-lead-in-social-sector-spending-695155">'India Philanthropy Report 2024': HNIs and affluent take the lead in social sector spending</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C35OuItrl6h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C35OuItrl6h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C35OuItrl6h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C35OuItrl6h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Bill Gates (@thisisbillgates)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Patil later spoke to the media and shared his experience. While talking to the media at his roadside tea stall near the old VCA stadium in the Sadar area, Patil said he was not aware who the gentleman (Gates) in the video was.</p>

<p>He said that he just made tea for "a person from abroad".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was only the next day after I returned to Nagpur (from Hyderabad) that I realised to whom I had served tea," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who is visiting India, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 29). He said they discussed artificial intelligence (AI) for public good, women-led development and innovation in agriculture and health.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, who is visiting India, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 29). He said they discussed artificial intelligence (AI) for public good, women-led development and innovation in agriculture and health. On his official social media platform X, Gates wrote, "It is always inspiring to meet with Narendra Modi and there was a lot to discuss." "We talked about AI for public good; DPI; women-led development; innovation in agriculture, health, and climate adaptation; and how we can take lessons from India to the world," he added. While replying to his post, PM Modi wrote, "A wonderful meeting indeed! Always a delight to discuss sectors which will make our planet better and empower millions of people across the globe." Also read: Eli Lilly CEO foresees launch of obesity medicine in India by next year: Report A wonderful meeting indeed! Always a delight to discuss sectors which will make our planet better and empower millions of people across the globe. @BillGates https://t.co/IKFM7lEMOX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 29, 2024 × Previously, Gates shared a video on Instagram with Sunil Patil, a popular tea seller in Nagpur. Patil is popularly known as 'Dolly Chaiwalla'. Gates also praised India's innovation culture. "In India, you can find innovation everywhere you turn, even in preparation of a simple cup of tea," Gates said in a post shared along with the video, which was shot in Hyderabad. Also read: 'India Philanthropy Report 2024': HNIs and affluent take the lead in social sector spending View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bill Gates (@thisisbillgates) × Patil later spoke to the media and shared his experience. While talking to the media at his roadside tea stall near the old VCA stadium in the Sadar area, Patil said he was not aware who the gentleman (Gates) in the video was. He said that he just made tea for "a person from abroad". "It was only the next day after I returned to Nagpur (from Hyderabad) that I realised to whom I had served tea," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Bill Gates meets PM Modi in India, talks about AI for 'public good' and 'innovation'

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 28) was seen listening closely to German singer Cassandra Mae Spittmann. PM Modi met the singer and her mother in Palladam, which is in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also provided beats while the singer sang "Achyutam Keshavam" - a devotional song of Hindu religion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, in one of the episodes of his monthly radio broadcast Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi had mentioned Spittmann's name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The German singer often sings&nbsp;devotional songs in many Indian languages. In addition to "Achyutam Keshavam", she also sang a song in the Tamil language when she met with PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Modi today met the German singer Cassandra Mae Spittmann and her mother in Tamil Nadu's Palladam<br />
<br />
Spittmann was mentioned by the PM in one of his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio programs. She sings songs, especially devotional songs in many Indian languages.<br />
<br />
Today, she sang… <a href="https://t.co/1DA9JV2aZw">pic.twitter.com/1DA9JV2aZw</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1762453533075665177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2024</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>

<p>During a Mann Ki Baat address last year in September, PM Modi said, "Indian culture and Indian music are now global. More and more people worldwide are getting attracted to them", and also played an Indian song sung by Mae.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Such a melodious voice...and every word reflects emotions. We can also feel her attachment to God. You would be surprised to know that this voice is of a daughter from Germany," PM Modi said after the song presentation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Her name is CassMae. 21-year-old CassMae on Instagram is quite famous these days. German national CassMae has never visited India. But, she is extremely fond of Indian music," he had added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 28) was seen listening closely to German singer Cassandra Mae Spittmann. PM Modi met the singer and her mother in Palladam, which is in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 28) was seen listening closely to German singer Cassandra Mae Spittmann. PM Modi met the singer and her mother in Palladam, which is in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. PM Modi also provided beats while the singer sang "Achyutam Keshavam" - a devotional song of Hindu religion. Earlier, in one of the episodes of his monthly radio broadcast Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi had mentioned Spittmann's name. The German singer often sings devotional songs in many Indian languages. In addition to "Achyutam Keshavam", she also sang a song in the Tamil language when she met with PM Modi. Watch the video here: #WATCH | PM Modi today met the German singer Cassandra Mae Spittmann and her mother in Tamil Nadu's Palladam Spittmann was mentioned by the PM in one of his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio programs. She sings songs, especially devotional songs in many Indian languages. Today, she sang… pic.twitter.com/1DA9JV2aZw — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2024 × During a Mann Ki Baat address last year in September, PM Modi said, "Indian culture and Indian music are now global. More and more people worldwide are getting attracted to them", and also played an Indian song sung by Mae. "Such a melodious voice...and every word reflects emotions. We can also feel her attachment to God. You would be surprised to know that this voice is of a daughter from Germany," PM Modi said after the song presentation. "Her name is CassMae. 21-year-old CassMae on Instagram is quite famous these days. German national CassMae has never visited India. But, she is extremely fond of Indian music," he had added. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: PM Modi applauds German singer as she sings devotional song 'Achyutam Keshavam'

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 28) slammed the ruling party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu for allegedly using a 'China rocket' picture in a newspaper advertisement aimed at promoting the proposed second launch pad of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a political rally in Tirunelveli city, PM Modi said, "DMK is such a party which doesn't do any work but goes ahead to take false credit. Who doesn't know that these people put their stickers on our schemes?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Now they have crossed the limit, they have pasted stickers of China to take credit for the ISRO launch pad in Tamil Nadu. They are not ready to see the progress of India's space and using the taxes that you pay&nbsp;they give advertisements and do not even include a picture of India's rocket in it," PM Modi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajiv-gandhi-assassination-case-convict-santhan-freed-in-2022-dies-694689">Rajiv Gandhi assassination case convict Santhan, freed in 2022, dies in India's Chennai</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Tamil Nadu: In Tirunelveli, PM Modi says "DMK is such a party which doesn't do any work but goes ahead to take false credit. Who doesn't know that these people put their stickers on our schemes? Now they have crossed the limit, they have pasted stickers of China to take… <a href="https://t.co/5Z9f2INeoO">pic.twitter.com/5Z9f2INeoO</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1762740402191204826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2024</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>

<p>The Indian prime minister also accused DMK of insulting the ISRO scientists who were part of the country's successful space missions, including Chandrayaan-3.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They did not want to share India's space success in front of the world, they insulted our scientists, our space sector, your tax money. Now the time has come to punish the DMK," PM Modi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The advertisement was meant for the new ISRO rocket launch site in Kulasekarapattinam town in Thoothukudi district. PM Modi is also laying the foundation stone there.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the same, a full-page newspaper advertisement was published on Wednesday by DMK Minister Thiru Anita Radhakrishnan. The ad showed pictures of PM Modi, Chief Minister MK Stalin, DMK Lok Sabha MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi and other party leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/himachal-pradesh-political-crisis-after-rajya-sabha-debacle-what-it-means-for-congress-party-694692">Himachal Pradesh political crisis after Rajya Sabha debacle: What it means for Congress party</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This advertisement by DMK Minister Thiru Anita Radhakrishnan to leading Tamil dailies today is a manifestation of DMK’s commitment to China &amp; their total disregard for our country’s sovereignty.<br />
<br />
DMK, a party flighing high on corruption, has been desperate to paste stickers ever… <a href="https://t.co/g6CeTzd9TZ">pic.twitter.com/g6CeTzd9TZ</a></p>
— K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) <a href="https://twitter.com/annamalai_k/status/1762716958146146419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2024</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>

<p>Kanimozhi defended the controversial ad, saying, "Nobody has announced China as an enemy country. Even PM Modi welcomed the Chinese premiere and held a meeting here in Mahabalipuram. Even in several union government ads the national flag was not present."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai also slammed the ad, stating, "This advertisement by DMK Minister Thiru Anita Radhakrishnan to leading Tamil dailies today is a manifestation of DMK’s commitment to China and their total disregard for our country’s sovereignty."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 28) slammed the ruling party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu for allegedly using a 'China rocket' picture in a newspaper advertisement aimed at promoting the proposed second launch pad of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Feb 28) slammed the ruling party, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu for allegedly using a 'China rocket' picture in a newspaper advertisement aimed at promoting the proposed second launch pad of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the state. During a political rally in Tirunelveli city, PM Modi said, "DMK is such a party which doesn't do any work but goes ahead to take false credit. Who doesn't know that these people put their stickers on our schemes?" "Now they have crossed the limit, they have pasted stickers of China to take credit for the ISRO launch pad in Tamil Nadu. They are not ready to see the progress of India's space and using the taxes that you pay they give advertisements and do not even include a picture of India's rocket in it," PM Modi added. Also read: Rajiv Gandhi assassination case convict Santhan, freed in 2022, dies in India's Chennai #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: In Tirunelveli, PM Modi says "DMK is such a party which doesn't do any work but goes ahead to take false credit. Who doesn't know that these people put their stickers on our schemes? Now they have crossed the limit, they have pasted stickers of China to take… pic.twitter.com/5Z9f2INeoO — ANI (@ANI) February 28, 2024 × The Indian prime minister also accused DMK of insulting the ISRO scientists who were part of the country's successful space missions, including Chandrayaan-3. "They did not want to share India's space success in front of the world, they insulted our scientists, our space sector, your tax money. Now the time has come to punish the DMK," PM Modi added. The advertisement was meant for the new ISRO rocket launch site in Kulasekarapattinam town in Thoothukudi district. PM Modi is also laying the foundation stone there. For the same, a full-page newspaper advertisement was published on Wednesday by DMK Minister Thiru Anita Radhakrishnan. The ad showed pictures of PM Modi, Chief Minister MK Stalin, DMK Lok Sabha MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi and other party leaders. Also read: Himachal Pradesh political crisis after Rajya Sabha debacle: What it means for Congress party This advertisement by DMK Minister Thiru Anita Radhakrishnan to leading Tamil dailies today is a manifestation of DMK’s commitment to China & their total disregard for our country’s sovereignty. DMK, a party flighing high on corruption, has been desperate to paste stickers ever… pic.twitter.com/g6CeTzd9TZ — K.Annamalai (@annamalai_k) February 28, 2024 × Kanimozhi defended the controversial ad, saying, "Nobody has announced China as an enemy country. Even PM Modi welcomed the Chinese premiere and held a meeting here in Mahabalipuram. Even in several union government ads the national flag was not present." Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai also slammed the ad, stating, "This advertisement by DMK Minister Thiru Anita Radhakrishnan to leading Tamil dailies today is a manifestation of DMK’s commitment to China and their total disregard for our country’s sovereignty." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi slams DMK government for ‘China rocket’ in newspaper ad, calls it ‘insult’ of ISRO scientists

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing.</p>

<p>The projects are worth over $4.94&nbsp;(Rs 41,000 crores).</p>

<p>During his virtual address, PM Modi called the move a symbol of the work culture of 'New India'.</p>

<p>"Today's programme is symbolic of New India's work ethic. Now, India works with an unprecedented speed at an unprecedented scale. Parting ways with small aspirations, today's India has moved on to dreaming big and realising those dreams at the earliest," the Prime Minister said.</p>

<p>He also affirmed confidence in returning to the third term of the government.</p>

<p>"Today, the foundation stone for more than 2000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start in June. The scale and speed with which work has started is surprising everyone," he said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "Today, the foundation stone of more than 2,000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start from June but the scale and speed with which work has been started is… <a href="https://t.co/GdxuV493wC">pic.twitter.com/GdxuV493wC</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1762018178274676888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2024</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>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a government release, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 553 railway stations spread across 27 states and Union Territories and the combined cost of all the projects is $2.29 million (Rs 19,000 crore).&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>These stations will act as "City Centres," and will connect both sides of the city.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/divine-experience-pm-modi-goes-underwater-offers-prayers-in-submerged-dwarka-693694"> </a></strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/divine-experience-pm-modi-goes-underwater-offers-prayers-in-submerged-dwarka-693694">‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi inaugurates Bharat Tex 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, the Indian prime minister also inaugurated Bharat Tex 2024, which is one of the largest-ever global textile events held in the country.</p>

<p>While speaking at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of the largest producers of cotton, jute and silk in the world. Lakhs of farmers are engaged in this work. Today the government is supporting lakhs of cotton farmers, purchasing lakhs of quintals of cotton from them. The Kasturi Cotton launched by the government is going to be a big step towards creating India's own identity."</p>

<p>At the inauguration, Union Minister Piyush Goyal also highlighted the growth of Bharat Mandapam in a span of just seven months. He also expressed the need to expand the infrastructure to accommodate the increasing demand.</p>

<p>"It has been only seven months since this Bharat Mandapam was inaugurated by PM Modi on 26th July 2023 and in just seven months, this place and YashoBhoomi have started falling short of space. Now, we need to start Phase 2 at both locations as early as possible which you can inaugurate in your third term," Goyal said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Feb 26) inaugurated more than 2,000 projects dedicated to railways and laid the foundation stone for the re-development of 554 Railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme via video conferencing. The projects are worth over $4.94 (Rs 41,000 crores). During his virtual address, PM Modi called the move a symbol of the work culture of 'New India'. "Today's programme is symbolic of New India's work ethic. Now, India works with an unprecedented speed at an unprecedented scale. Parting ways with small aspirations, today's India has moved on to dreaming big and realising those dreams at the earliest," the Prime Minister said. He also affirmed confidence in returning to the third term of the government. "Today, the foundation stone for more than 2000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start in June. The scale and speed with which work has started is surprising everyone," he said. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says "Today, the foundation stone of more than 2,000 projects related to railways has been laid and inaugurated. The third term of this government is going to start from June but the scale and speed with which work has been started is… pic.twitter.com/GdxuV493wC — ANI (@ANI) February 26, 2024 × As per a government release, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of 553 railway stations spread across 27 states and Union Territories and the combined cost of all the projects is $2.29 million (Rs 19,000 crore). These stations will act as "City Centres," and will connect both sides of the city. Also read: ‘Divine experience’: PM Modi goes underwater in deep sea to offer prayers at submerged Dwarka PM Modi inaugurates Bharat Tex 2024 Earlier in the day, the Indian prime minister also inaugurated Bharat Tex 2024, which is one of the largest-ever global textile events held in the country. While speaking at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of the largest producers of cotton, jute and silk in the world. Lakhs of farmers are engaged in this work. Today the government is supporting lakhs of cotton farmers, purchasing lakhs of quintals of cotton from them. The Kasturi Cotton launched by the government is going to be a big step towards creating India's own identity." At the inauguration, Union Minister Piyush Goyal also highlighted the growth of Bharat Mandapam in a span of just seven months. He also expressed the need to expand the infrastructure to accommodate the increasing demand. "It has been only seven months since this Bharat Mandapam was inaugurated by PM Modi on 26th July 2023 and in just seven months, this place and YashoBhoomi have started falling short of space. Now, we need to start Phase 2 at both locations as early as possible which you can inaugurate in your third term," Goyal said. (With inputs from agencies)

India: PM Modi inaugurates over 2000 railway infrastructure projects

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidK6tOxzz93SzT" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" won't be broadcast for the next three months. The reason- the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the country. Addressing the 110th edition of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday (Feb 25), Prime Minister Modi said, "Mann Ki Baat will not be broadcast for the next three months in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls."</p>

<p>"Even though 'Mann Ki Baat' will stop for three months but, the achievements of the country will not stop therefore, keep posting the achievements of the society and the country on social media with the hashtag Mann Ki Baat," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/today-india-is-the-largest-milk-producing-nation-globally-80-million-associated-with-dairy-sector-pm-modi-692640">Govt leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmers' welfare: Indian PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>The monthly radio programme was launched on October 3, 2014. It aims to connect with various segments of Indian society, encompassing women, the elderly, and the youth. In the 110 episodes done so far, Modi has spoken on subjects ranging from government policies, initiatives, and welfare schemes.</p>

<p>The radio programme is broadcast in 22 Indian languages and 11 foreign languages.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Women's power touching new heights of progress...'</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday, PM Modi said that India's "Nari Shakti" (women's power) was touching new heights of progress in every field. "After a few days on March 8, we will celebrate Women's Day. This special day is an opportunity to salute the contributions of women's power in the developmental journey of the country. The great poet Bharathiyar Ji has said that the world will prosper only when women get equal opportunities. Nari Shakti (women power) is touching new heights of progress in every field," Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Mann Ki Baat 110th Edition: PM Modi speaks to Drone Didi and hails women empowerment</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mann-ki-baat-110th-edition-pm-modi-speaks-to-drone-didi-and-hails-women-empowerment-693656/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The prime minister also talked about the 'NaMo Drone Didi' scheme by saying the initiative brought changes in the lives of women living in rural areas. The scheme was launched last year</p>

<p>"Who would have thought till a few years ago that in our country, women living in villages would also fly drones? But today this is becoming possible. Today, there is so much discussion about Drone Didi in every village, Namo Drone Didi, Namo Drone Didi is on everyone's lips. Everyone is talking about them," he said.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" won't be broadcast for the next three months. The reason- the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" won't be broadcast for the next three months. The reason- the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the country. Addressing the 110th edition of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday (Feb 25), Prime Minister Modi said, "Mann Ki Baat will not be broadcast for the next three months in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls." "Even though 'Mann Ki Baat' will stop for three months but, the achievements of the country will not stop therefore, keep posting the achievements of the society and the country on social media with the hashtag Mann Ki Baat," he added. Also read | Govt leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmers' welfare: Indian PM Modi The monthly radio programme was launched on October 3, 2014. It aims to connect with various segments of Indian society, encompassing women, the elderly, and the youth. In the 110 episodes done so far, Modi has spoken on subjects ranging from government policies, initiatives, and welfare schemes. The radio programme is broadcast in 22 Indian languages and 11 foreign languages. 'Women's power touching new heights of progress...' On Sunday, PM Modi said that India's "Nari Shakti" (women's power) was touching new heights of progress in every field. "After a few days on March 8, we will celebrate Women's Day. This special day is an opportunity to salute the contributions of women's power in the developmental journey of the country. The great poet Bharathiyar Ji has said that the world will prosper only when women get equal opportunities. Nari Shakti (women power) is touching new heights of progress in every field," Modi said. Also watch | Mann Ki Baat 110th Edition: PM Modi speaks to Drone Didi and hails women empowerment × The prime minister also talked about the 'NaMo Drone Didi' scheme by saying the initiative brought changes in the lives of women living in rural areas. The scheme was launched last year "Who would have thought till a few years ago that in our country, women living in villages would also fly drones? But today this is becoming possible. Today, there is so much discussion about Drone Didi in every village, Namo Drone Didi, Namo Drone Didi is on everyone's lips. Everyone is talking about them," he said.

Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an&nbsp;impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult.</p>

<p>As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', about 17 per cent of the respondents expressed disapproval of PM Modi's leadership, while the rest abstained from providing feedback.</p>

<p>Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador secured the second spot with an approval rating of 65 per cent,&nbsp;followed by Argentina President Javier Milei at the third place with an approval rating of 63 per cent.</p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden trailed behind by a huge margin. He grabbed the 11th spot in the list with 37 per cent of people approving his leadership and 55 per cent disapproving. Eight per cent of the respondents chose to give no opinion about the US president.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modis-mann-ki-baat-wont-be-broadcast-for-next-three-months-heres-why-693667">Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why</a></p>

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was ranked even lower down, at 17th on the list with a 29 per cent approval rating, whereas UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was 20th with 25 per cent approving of his leadership and 66 per cent disapproving.</p>

<p>As per the agency's website, the latest approval ratings are based on the data gathered from January 30 to February 5.</p>

<p>In the month of December, the survey showed that PM Modi had an approval rating of 76 per cent.</p>

<h2><strong>A consistent triumph for Modi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi has consistently secured the top position in these global rankings, maintaining an approval rating between 75-80 per cent over the past several years, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These approval ratings also come following big victories for PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh last year. The triumphs are viewed as a boost for PM Modi and his party as they look ahead to the general elections scheduled in the next few months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain at the top spot as the most popular global leader with an impressively high approval rating of 78%, according to a survey conducted by a US-based global decision intelligence agency, Morning Consult. As per the survey's 'Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker', about 17 per cent of the respondents expressed disapproval of PM Modi's leadership, while the rest abstained from providing feedback. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador secured the second spot with an approval rating of 65 per cent, followed by Argentina President Javier Milei at the third place with an approval rating of 63 per cent. United States President Joe Biden trailed behind by a huge margin. He grabbed the 11th spot in the list with 37 per cent of people approving his leadership and 55 per cent disapproving. Eight per cent of the respondents chose to give no opinion about the US president. Also read: Indian PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' won't be broadcast for next three months. Here's why Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was ranked even lower down, at 17th on the list with a 29 per cent approval rating, whereas UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was 20th with 25 per cent approving of his leadership and 66 per cent disapproving. As per the agency's website, the latest approval ratings are based on the data gathered from January 30 to February 5. In the month of December, the survey showed that PM Modi had an approval rating of 76 per cent. A consistent triumph for Modi Prime Minister Modi has consistently secured the top position in these global rankings, maintaining an approval rating between 75-80 per cent over the past several years, reports said. These approval ratings also come following big victories for PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in state elections in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh last year. The triumphs are viewed as a boost for PM Modi and his party as they look ahead to the general elections scheduled in the next few months. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi emerges as most popular global leader, tops the charts with high 78% approval rating

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (Feb 22) that his government was leaving no stone unturned to ensure the welfare of the country's farmers. Prime Minister Modi attended the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) in Ahmedabad. The GCMFF is the producer of Amul's brand of products.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the event, Modi said "We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmer welfare. The government has built 60,000+ Amrit Sarovars across the country. This very initiative will not only benefit farmers but will also strengthen the rural economy. Our goal is to provide modern technology and its know-how even to the small farmers of the country."</p>

<p>He added that for the first time, the government has provided Kisan Credit Card facility to cattle farmers and fish farmers. "Our focus is to improve the life of small farmers, to increase the scope of animal husbandry, to improve the health of animals, to encourage animal husbandry as well as pisciculture and beekeeping in the village," the prime minister further said.</p>

<p>Modi's comments on farmers were his first since the farmers' protests began last week against the central government. Farmers have been attempting to march to New Delhi as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' (Let's Go to Delhi) campaign demanding legally binding higher prices for their crops, among other things.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the farmers' unions said they were pausing their campaign for two days following the death of a protester.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Today India is the largest milk producing nation globally'</strong></h2>

<p>During the event in Ahmedabad, PM Modi also said on Thursday that&nbsp;India is the largest milk-producing country in the world, and 80 million people are associated with the nation's dairy sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last 10 years alone, milk production in India has increased by about 60 per cent. Per capita milk availability has also increased by 40 per cent in the last decade," Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/historic-increase-in-price-pm-modi-lauds-cabinets-hike-in-sugarcane-frp-692599">'Historic increase in price': PM Modi lauds cabinet's hike in sugarcane FRP</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | At the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, PM Narendra Modi says, "Amul is also an example of how the destiny of future generations is changed with the decisions taken with farsightedness...Today, this is… <a href="https://t.co/B2wAJZMu0O">pic.twitter.com/B2wAJZMu0O</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1760548662449488101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</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>

<p>Modi began his two-day visit to Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Apart from attending the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the GCMMF, he will unveil development projects in Gujarat worth over $2.75 billion (Rs 22,850 crore).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The projects will encompass important sectors like road, rail, energy, health, internet connectivity, urban development, water supply, tourism etc., in districts like Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Banaskantha, Anand, Mahesana, Kachchh, Kheda, Bharuch, Tapi, Vadodara, Surat, Navsari, Panchmahal, Valsad, and Narmada.</p>

<p>On Friday, the prime minister will reach Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi to take part in a prize distribution programme at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). He would lay the foundation stone of developmental projects worth over $1.56 billion (Rs 13,000 crore) in the city.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (Feb 22) that his government was leaving no stone unturned to ensure the welfare of the country's farmers. Prime Minister Modi attended the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) in Ahmedabad.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday (Feb 22) that his government was leaving no stone unturned to ensure the welfare of the country's farmers. Prime Minister Modi attended the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) in Ahmedabad. The GCMFF is the producer of Amul's brand of products. Addressing the event, Modi said "We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmer welfare. The government has built 60,000+ Amrit Sarovars across the country. This very initiative will not only benefit farmers but will also strengthen the rural economy. Our goal is to provide modern technology and its know-how even to the small farmers of the country." He added that for the first time, the government has provided Kisan Credit Card facility to cattle farmers and fish farmers. "Our focus is to improve the life of small farmers, to increase the scope of animal husbandry, to improve the health of animals, to encourage animal husbandry as well as pisciculture and beekeeping in the village," the prime minister further said. Modi's comments on farmers were his first since the farmers' protests began last week against the central government. Farmers have been attempting to march to New Delhi as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' (Let's Go to Delhi) campaign demanding legally binding higher prices for their crops, among other things. On Wednesday, the farmers' unions said they were pausing their campaign for two days following the death of a protester. 'Today India is the largest milk producing nation globally' During the event in Ahmedabad, PM Modi also said on Thursday that India is the largest milk-producing country in the world, and 80 million people are associated with the nation's dairy sector. "In the last 10 years alone, milk production in India has increased by about 60 per cent. Per capita milk availability has also increased by 40 per cent in the last decade," Modi said. Also read | 'Historic increase in price': PM Modi lauds cabinet's hike in sugarcane FRP #WATCH | Ahmedabad, Gujarat | At the Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation, PM Narendra Modi says, "Amul is also an example of how the destiny of future generations is changed with the decisions taken with farsightedness...Today, this is… pic.twitter.com/B2wAJZMu0O — ANI (@ANI) February 22, 2024 × Modi began his two-day visit to Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. Apart from attending the golden jubilee celebrations celebrations of the GCMMF, he will unveil development projects in Gujarat worth over $2.75 billion (Rs 22,850 crore). The projects will encompass important sectors like road, rail, energy, health, internet connectivity, urban development, water supply, tourism etc., in districts like Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Banaskantha, Anand, Mahesana, Kachchh, Kheda, Bharuch, Tapi, Vadodara, Surat, Navsari, Panchmahal, Valsad, and Narmada. On Friday, the prime minister will reach Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi to take part in a prize distribution programme at the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). He would lay the foundation stone of developmental projects worth over $1.56 billion (Rs 13,000 crore) in the city.

Govt leaving no stone unturned to ensure farmers' welfare: Indian PM Modi

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated development projects worth Rs&nbsp;320 billion (approx $3.85&nbsp;billion) in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday (Feb 20).</p>

<p>PM Modi also flagged off the first electric train in the Valley and inaugurated a train service between Sangaldan and Baramulla stations.</p>

<p>During his address, he said that since the 'roadblock' of Article 370 was removed now, the union territory was experiencing progress. The Modi government had scrapped Article 370 that had given special status to the region.</p>

<p>During his day-long visit, PM Modi&nbsp;laid the foundation stone for the&nbsp;projects, met the beneficiaries of various government schemes and distributed appointment letters to 1,500 fresh government recruits.</p>

<p>The projects launched by Modi pertain to sectors like health, education, rail, road, civic infrastructure, aviation and more.</p>

<p>"Article 370 was the biggest roadblock in the development of Jammu and Kashmir. However, the BJP government has abrogated it," said PM Modi.</p>

<p>"Jammu and Kashmir is moving towards overall development now. It is because of the abrogation of Article 370, I have urged the people to help BJP win 370 seats and NDA win 400 seats in (2024 Lok Sabha) elections."</p>

<p>"I have full faith in you and we will make 'Viksit Jammu and Kashmir.' Your dreams of 70 years will be fulfilled by Modi in the coming years. Earlier, only disappointing news of bombs, kidnappings and separation used to come from Jammu and Kashmir, but now Jammu and Kashmir is developing and moving forward," he added during his speech.</p>

<p>"Jammu and Kashmir had to bear the brunt of dynastic politics for decades. They are only concerned about their families, not about your interests, your families...I am happy that Jammu and Kashmir is getting freedom from this dynastic politics," said PM Modi.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UP Global Investors Summit: Ahead of Lok Sabha polls, PM Modi's investment push</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/up-global-investors-summit-ahead-of-lok-sabha-polls-pm-modis-investment-push-691748/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>He promised the people that the BJP would fulfil the dream of 'Viksit Jammu and Kashmir' (developed Jammu and Kashmir).</p>

<p>This is the PM's second visit to Jammu during his second term as prime minister. Before this, he had visited in April 2022. This visit comes just months ahead of the April-May Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<p>PM Modi is seeking a third straight term as Prime Minister of India.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-granted-bail-in-2018-defamation-case-after-brief-custody-691926">Rahul Gandhi granted bail in 2018 defamation case after brief custody</a></strong></p>

<p>On the eve of his visit to Jammu, the PM had said that the projects he will dedicate to the nation will be a big boost to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and to India as a whole.</p>

<p>“I look forward to being in Jammu tomorrow to inaugurate key development works which will boost ‘Ease of Living.’ It will also be a landmark day for the education sector as various institutions including IITs and IIMs will get permanent campuses,” he posted on X, on Monday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated development projects worth Rs 320 billion (approx $3.85 billion) in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday (Feb 20). PM Modi also flagged off the first electric train in the Valley and inaugurated a train service between Sangaldan and Baramulla stations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated development projects worth Rs 320 billion (approx $3.85 billion) in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday (Feb 20). PM Modi also flagged off the first electric train in the Valley and inaugurated a train service between Sangaldan and Baramulla stations. During his address, he said that since the 'roadblock' of Article 370 was removed now, the union territory was experiencing progress. The Modi government had scrapped Article 370 that had given special status to the region. During his day-long visit, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the projects, met the beneficiaries of various government schemes and distributed appointment letters to 1,500 fresh government recruits. The projects launched by Modi pertain to sectors like health, education, rail, road, civic infrastructure, aviation and more. "Article 370 was the biggest roadblock in the development of Jammu and Kashmir. However, the BJP government has abrogated it," said PM Modi. "Jammu and Kashmir is moving towards overall development now. It is because of the abrogation of Article 370, I have urged the people to help BJP win 370 seats and NDA win 400 seats in (2024 Lok Sabha) elections." "I have full faith in you and we will make 'Viksit Jammu and Kashmir.' Your dreams of 70 years will be fulfilled by Modi in the coming years. Earlier, only disappointing news of bombs, kidnappings and separation used to come from Jammu and Kashmir, but now Jammu and Kashmir is developing and moving forward," he added during his speech. "Jammu and Kashmir had to bear the brunt of dynastic politics for decades. They are only concerned about their families, not about your interests, your families...I am happy that Jammu and Kashmir is getting freedom from this dynastic politics," said PM Modi. Watch | UP Global Investors Summit: Ahead of Lok Sabha polls, PM Modi's investment push × He promised the people that the BJP would fulfil the dream of 'Viksit Jammu and Kashmir' (developed Jammu and Kashmir). This is the PM's second visit to Jammu during his second term as prime minister. Before this, he had visited in April 2022. This visit comes just months ahead of the April-May Lok Sabha elections. PM Modi is seeking a third straight term as Prime Minister of India. Also Read | Rahul Gandhi granted bail in 2018 defamation case after brief custody On the eve of his visit to Jammu, the PM had said that the projects he will dedicate to the nation will be a big boost to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and to India as a whole. “I look forward to being in Jammu tomorrow to inaugurate key development works which will boost ‘Ease of Living.’ It will also be a landmark day for the education sector as various institutions including IITs and IIMs will get permanent campuses,” he posted on X, on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

Modi in Jammu: Indian PM launches projects worth billions of dollars, says Article 370 was a hurdle

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch more than 14,000 projects in the northern Uttar Pradesh state worth ₹10 trillion ahead of the country's General Election later in the summer. The state of&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh sends&nbsp;80 of the 543 Lok Sabha parliamentarians to New Delhi and the Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party has managed to win 71 and 62 seats in the state in the 2014 and 2019 general elections, respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The projects to be launched are related to sectors such as manufacturing, renewable energy, IT, food processing, housing and real estate, hospitality and entertainment, and education among others.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-world-is-assured-he-is-returning-for-third-term-in-power-top-points-691450">PM Modi says world is assured he is returning for third term in power: Top points</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indian prime minister will also visit Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district, about 162 km east of New Delhi, where he will lay the foundation stone of Shri Kalki Dham Temple.</p>

<p>The event is set to have a remarkable blend of faith and politics as the temple is being constructed by a temple trust whose chairperson is a just-expelled Opposition politician: Acharya Pramod Krishnam of the Indian National Congress.</p>

<p>The projects to be launched also&nbsp;include about 300 proposals of the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the export promotion department worth about&nbsp;₹45,000 Crore.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's PM Modi launches BJP's election campaign in UP's Bulandshahr | WION News</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-pm-modi-launches-bjps-election-campaign-in-ups-bulandshahr-683499/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Besides, about 750 projects of the housing department involving an investment of about ₹57,000 Crore are also going for implementation at the groundbreaking ceremony.</p>

<p>Nearly 40 projects of the excise department involving investment worth about ₹7500 Crore are to be implemented at the groundbreaking ceremony.</p>

<h2><strong>Ashok Leyland's manufacturing unit to be set up; focus on temple towns of Ayodhya, Mathura</strong></h2>

<p>In Uttar Pradesh's capital Lucknow, an electric vehicle manufacturing unit by Chennai-headquartered Ashok Leyland will be set up on the land of Scooters India Limited (SIL).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also launch projects worth ₹10,155.79 crores for the temple town of Ayodhya, while projects worth ₹13486.63 crores will be launched for Mathura.</p>

<p>For his own Lok Sabha constituency of Varanasi, Prime Minister Modi will launch projects worth&nbsp;₹15,313.81 crore.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch more than 14,000 projects in the northern Uttar Pradesh state worth ₹10 trillion ahead of the country's General Election later in the summer.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch more than 14,000 projects in the northern Uttar Pradesh state worth ₹10 trillion ahead of the country's General Election later in the summer. The state of Uttar Pradesh sends 80 of the 543 Lok Sabha parliamentarians to New Delhi and the Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party has managed to win 71 and 62 seats in the state in the 2014 and 2019 general elections, respectively. The projects to be launched are related to sectors such as manufacturing, renewable energy, IT, food processing, housing and real estate, hospitality and entertainment, and education among others. Also read | PM Modi says world is assured he is returning for third term in power: Top points The Indian prime minister will also visit Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal district, about 162 km east of New Delhi, where he will lay the foundation stone of Shri Kalki Dham Temple. The event is set to have a remarkable blend of faith and politics as the temple is being constructed by a temple trust whose chairperson is a just-expelled Opposition politician: Acharya Pramod Krishnam of the Indian National Congress. The projects to be launched also include about 300 proposals of the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the export promotion department worth about ₹45,000 Crore. Also watch | India's PM Modi launches BJP's election campaign in UP's Bulandshahr | WION News × Besides, about 750 projects of the housing department involving an investment of about ₹57,000 Crore are also going for implementation at the groundbreaking ceremony. Nearly 40 projects of the excise department involving investment worth about ₹7500 Crore are to be implemented at the groundbreaking ceremony. Ashok Leyland's manufacturing unit to be set up; focus on temple towns of Ayodhya, Mathura In Uttar Pradesh's capital Lucknow, an electric vehicle manufacturing unit by Chennai-headquartered Ashok Leyland will be set up on the land of Scooters India Limited (SIL). Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also launch projects worth ₹10,155.79 crores for the temple town of Ayodhya, while projects worth ₹13486.63 crores will be launched for Mathura. For his own Lok Sabha constituency of Varanasi, Prime Minister Modi will launch projects worth ₹15,313.81 crore. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi to launch projects worth 10 trillion rupees in Uttar Pradesh state

<p>The private sector firms have been appealed by the authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to take ‘necessary measures’ in the wake of heavy rain and inclement weather, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a two-day visit to the country which will begin on Tuesday (Jan 13). The UAE government also scaled down the ‘Ahlan Modi’ (Hello Modi) event, reducing its&nbsp;strength from 80,000 to 35,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), in a post on X, also appealed to the companies to look after their workers'&nbsp;health and safety.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Heavy downpour in Abu Dhabi, making the BAPS Hindu Mandir look stunning as it glitters at night. Sight looks breathtaking as the architectural marvel shines. <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIONews</a> <a href="https://t.co/Oj9unP1ULo">pic.twitter.com/Oj9unP1ULo</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1757057667619606667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2024</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>

<p>“Necessary measures need to be taken by companies to ensure outdoor work, if necessary to resume, complies with the occupational health and safety requirements, Companies must also ensure the health and safety of workers commuting to and from outdoor work locations,” said the ministry in its statement released on the social media platform.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-inaugurate-first-hindu-temple-in-abu-dhabi-check-full-schedule-details-689738">PM Modi to inaugurate first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi | Check full schedule, details</a></p>

<p>The Emirates Schools Establishment announced that additionally, the schools will continue to hold online classes and distance learning due to the weather.</p>

<h2>How ‘Ahlan Modi’ event has been affected by rains?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The ‘Ahlan Modi’ (Hello Modi) event, which will be addressed by the prime minister later in the day, has been scaled down due to bad weather and the officials have been forced to reduce participation strength from 80,000 to 35,000, as reported by PTI.</p>

<p>“Preparations for one of the biggest diaspora events of Prime Minister Modi at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi were going fine, but the participation was reduced because of the weather,” said community leader Sajeev Purushothaman, while speaking to PTI.</p>

<p>The officials have received around 60,000 registrations for the interaction. However, now 35,000 to 40,000 people, which include those who will present cultural programmes, are likely to attend the interaction.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's UAE visit</strong></h2>

<p>The prime minister's UAE visit will be his seventh visit since 2015, and his third visit in the last eight months.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian PM Modi to attend World Government Summit 2024 as guest of honour in UAE</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-to-attend-world-government-summit-2024-as-guest-of-honour-in-uae-689682/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The leader's engagements include a bilateral meeting&nbsp;with President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He will also meet UAE's vice president, prime minister and defence minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.</p>

<p>The prime minister will also take part in the World Government Summit 2024 as its Guest of Honour. He will inaugurate the BAPS Mandir, which is the first Hindu temple&nbsp;in Abu Dhabi, on Feb 14.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The private sector firms have been appealed by the authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to take ‘necessary measures’ in the wake of heavy rain and inclement weather, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a two-day visit to the country which will begin on Tuesday (Jan 13).

The private sector firms have been appealed by the authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to take ‘necessary measures’ in the wake of heavy rain and inclement weather, as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a two-day visit to the country which will begin on Tuesday (Jan 13). The UAE government also scaled down the ‘Ahlan Modi’ (Hello Modi) event, reducing its strength from 80,000 to 35,000. The UAE's Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), in a post on X, also appealed to the companies to look after their workers' health and safety. Heavy downpour in Abu Dhabi, making the BAPS Hindu Mandir look stunning as it glitters at night. Sight looks breathtaking as the architectural marvel shines. @WIONews pic.twitter.com/Oj9unP1ULo — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 12, 2024 × “Necessary measures need to be taken by companies to ensure outdoor work, if necessary to resume, complies with the occupational health and safety requirements, Companies must also ensure the health and safety of workers commuting to and from outdoor work locations,” said the ministry in its statement released on the social media platform. Also Read: PM Modi to inaugurate first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi | Check full schedule, details The Emirates Schools Establishment announced that additionally, the schools will continue to hold online classes and distance learning due to the weather. How ‘Ahlan Modi’ event has been affected by rains? The ‘Ahlan Modi’ (Hello Modi) event, which will be addressed by the prime minister later in the day, has been scaled down due to bad weather and the officials have been forced to reduce participation strength from 80,000 to 35,000, as reported by PTI. “Preparations for one of the biggest diaspora events of Prime Minister Modi at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi were going fine, but the participation was reduced because of the weather,” said community leader Sajeev Purushothaman, while speaking to PTI. The officials have received around 60,000 registrations for the interaction. However, now 35,000 to 40,000 people, which include those who will present cultural programmes, are likely to attend the interaction. PM Modi's UAE visit The prime minister's UAE visit will be his seventh visit since 2015, and his third visit in the last eight months. Watch: Indian PM Modi to attend World Government Summit 2024 as guest of honour in UAE The leader's engagements include a bilateral meeting with President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He will also meet UAE's vice president, prime minister and defence minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The prime minister will also take part in the World Government Summit 2024 as its Guest of Honour. He will inaugurate the BAPS Mandir, which is the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, on Feb 14. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE scales down Indian PM's 'Ahlan Modi’ event amid heavy downpour

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his closing address at the Bharatiya Janata Party's National Convention on Sunday (Feb 18) called upon his fellow party members to distinguish <em>rajneeti&nbsp;</em>[politics] from <em>rashtra neeti</em> [nation building].&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Hum rajneeti ke liye nahin, rashtra neeti ke liye nikle hain". (We are in power for nation building, not politics)," Modi said in New Delhi in his address to his BJP office bearers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>World is assured that I am returning for third term: PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Pointing towards the global optimism over his return to power after elections this summer, Modi said that he has already received invites to visit foreign nations in July, August and September.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At BJP's national convention meet in Delhi, Indian PM Modi recalls his UAE, Qatar visit; Points to turn around in ties with West Asian Countries which are "at thr best" as "we write new chapters in ties" <a href="https://t.co/kqlDm0VvMT">pic.twitter.com/kqlDm0VvMT</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1759163539808190747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2024</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>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Gave India scam-free governance: PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi, who is seeking a third consecutive term in power in the country's national elections later this year, said that in his decade in power since 2014, India got scam-free governance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Everyone now knows that we freed the country from the scourge of mega scams and terror attacks. We worked sincerely to improve the lives of the poor and the middle class. People keep telling me 'You have achieved so much and fulfilled all major promises. Why are you still working hard?'," Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ram Temple's opening ended wait spanning centuries: PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking about the opening of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Modi said that his government in New Delhi has "demonstrated the courage of conviction and grit to accomplish tasks that had been pending for decades. The construction and opening of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya brought an end to a wait spanning centuries."</p>

<h2><strong>Got back Guru Granth Sahib from Afghanistan: PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Pointing to the tumultuous weeks after the Taliban stormed to power in Afghanistan after a hasty American exit, PM Modi said that his government got back the holy Shri Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh faith's most sacred text, from Afghanistan at the peak of the crisis.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India: 'Our resolve is a developed India,' says PM Modi at BJP National Council meeting in New Delhi</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-our-resolve-is-a-developed-india-says-pm-modi-at-bjp-national-council-meeting-in-new-delhi-691436/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Modi also reflected on the improved quota for Indian Muslim pilgrims who visit Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Got back Guru Granth Sahib back from Afghanistan with all respect, improved Haj visit, especially for women, says PM Modi at BJP's National convention meet in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/JIBMf7FeI0">pic.twitter.com/JIBMf7FeI0</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1759163550075895890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2024</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>

<p>Modi also took a dig at the Opposition and claimed that no one can beat them in making false promises. The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has been&nbsp;in power since 2014 and is seeking a third term in power with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its leadership face.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his closing address at the Bharatiya Janata Party's National Convention on Sunday (Feb 18) called upon his fellow party members to distinguish rajneeti [politics] from rashtra neeti [nation building].

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his closing address at the Bharatiya Janata Party's National Convention on Sunday (Feb 18) called upon his fellow party members to distinguish rajneeti [politics] from rashtra neeti [nation building]. "Hum rajneeti ke liye nahin, rashtra neeti ke liye nikle hain". (We are in power for nation building, not politics)," Modi said in New Delhi in his address to his BJP office bearers. World is assured that I am returning for third term: PM Modi Pointing towards the global optimism over his return to power after elections this summer, Modi said that he has already received invites to visit foreign nations in July, August and September. At BJP's national convention meet in Delhi, Indian PM Modi recalls his UAE, Qatar visit; Points to turn around in ties with West Asian Countries which are "at thr best" as "we write new chapters in ties" pic.twitter.com/kqlDm0VvMT — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 18, 2024 × Gave India scam-free governance: PM Modi Prime Minister Modi, who is seeking a third consecutive term in power in the country's national elections later this year, said that in his decade in power since 2014, India got scam-free governance. "Everyone now knows that we freed the country from the scourge of mega scams and terror attacks. We worked sincerely to improve the lives of the poor and the middle class. People keep telling me 'You have achieved so much and fulfilled all major promises. Why are you still working hard?'," Modi said. Ram Temple's opening ended wait spanning centuries: PM Modi Speaking about the opening of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Modi said that his government in New Delhi has "demonstrated the courage of conviction and grit to accomplish tasks that had been pending for decades. The construction and opening of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya brought an end to a wait spanning centuries." Got back Guru Granth Sahib from Afghanistan: PM Modi Pointing to the tumultuous weeks after the Taliban stormed to power in Afghanistan after a hasty American exit, PM Modi said that his government got back the holy Shri Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh faith's most sacred text, from Afghanistan at the peak of the crisis. Also watch | India: 'Our resolve is a developed India,' says PM Modi at BJP National Council meeting in New Delhi × Modi also reflected on the improved quota for Indian Muslim pilgrims who visit Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Got back Guru Granth Sahib back from Afghanistan with all respect, improved Haj visit, especially for women, says PM Modi at BJP's National convention meet in Delhi pic.twitter.com/JIBMf7FeI0 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) February 18, 2024 × Modi also took a dig at the Opposition and claimed that no one can beat them in making false promises. The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has been in power since 2014 and is seeking a third term in power with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as its leadership face. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi says world is assured he is returning for third term in power: Top points of his speech

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidCmmGNkt6fjIs" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 18) addressed the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) National Convention just months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and exhorted the party workers to work towards making India a developed country. At the convention in New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam, Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence of winning the upcoming elections comfortably and said that&nbsp;today even&nbsp;the opposition leaders are saying that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will win more than 400 seats this time. PM Modi was referring to the gaffe by Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge in the parliament.</p>

<p>"But to take the NDA to 400, the BJP will have to cross the mark of 370 seats," Modi said in the presence of top BJP leaders.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-leads-bjps-370-seat-push-as-tribute-to-leader-who-campaigned-for-ending-jammu-kashmirs-special-status-691288">BJP’s 370 seats will be real tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, his fight for J&amp;K’s integration: Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>Stressing on the importance of the upcoming elections for the country, Modi said the next five years are very crucial for the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our dream and resolution is that we have to make 'Viksit Bharat' and the next 5 years will play an important role in it. In the next 5 years, we have to take a giant leap towards Viksit Bharat,"&nbsp;Modi said while urging BJP leaders and workers&nbsp;to&nbsp;work with renewed vigour and confidence in the next 100 days for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.<br />
<br />
"In the next 100 days, we all have to reach out to every new voter, every beneficiary, every community. We've to win everyone's trust," he said.<br />
<br />
"We are not here to do politics but to serve the country," Modi added. "People keep telling me you have achieved so much, you have fulfilled all major promises, then why are you still working so much? The entire country believes that having a spotless 10-year term and taking 25 crore people out of the poverty line is not a simple task..." he added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: At the BJP National Convention 2024, PM Narendra Modi says, "I am not asking for the third term to enjoy power... If I had thought about my house, I would not have built houses for crores of poor people. I am living for the future of poor children. The dreams of… <a href="https://t.co/dRh3VCiuQK">pic.twitter.com/dRh3VCiuQK</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1759141443505906040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2024</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>

<p>Speaking further he said,&nbsp;"If I had thought about my house, I would not have built houses for crores of poor people. I am living for the future of poor children. The dreams of crores of women, poor, and youth are Modi's resolve...".<br />
<br />
“We rid country of mega scams, terror attacks; made efforts to improve living standards of poor, middle class. I have received invites from foreign countries to visit them in July, August, September; they also know ‘Aayega to Modi hi’. I am the first PM who raised the issue of toilets from the Red Fort,” PM Modi said.<br />
<br />
“Several historic and courageous decisions were taken in the last 10 years. We found the solutions of decades-old problems. Wait of five centuries was ended by the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Temple; after seven decades, the Kartarpur Corridor was inaugurated and Article 370 was abrogated. After four decades, the OROP demand was fulfilled. The country got its new education policy and women’s reservation bill was passed. We also brought a law against triple talaq,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>BJP passes political resolution</strong></h2>

<p>The two-day national convention got underway on Saturday. On the first day of the BJP's convention, the party passed a significant political resolution titled 'Viksit Bharat' (advanced India) - highlighting the achievements of the Modi government.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: At the BJP National Convention 2024, PM Narendra Modi says, "...We ensured the death penalty for crimes like rape. To deal with it quickly, special arrangements were also made. I am the first Prime Minister who raised the issue of toilets from Red Fort...I am… <a href="https://t.co/elKSbVDKz8">pic.twitter.com/elKSbVDKz8</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1759144264594772191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2024</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>

<p><br />
The national convention also passed a resolution on the Ram temple in Ayodhya, asserting that this heralds the establishment of "Ram Rajya" in the country for the next 1,000 years.<br />
<br />
The BJP said that the Modi government would return to power for a third straight term with a roadmap for expanding its welfare and development programmes. BJP National President JP Nadda urged party workers to surpass the 370 seats-mark in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.</p>

<h2><strong>NDA would win a 'thumping' mandate in polls: Shah</strong></h2>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who was present at the national convention, said on Sunday that the NDA would win a thumping mandate in the elections and Narendra Modi would return as prime minister for a third straight term in office.</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Shah said that Modi not only gave citizens the courage to dream of a "Shrestha Bharat" (great India) but also made a collective effort to realise that dream.</p>

<p>Hitting out at the opposition INDIA alliance, Shah said that the bloc was out to defame India and was inflicting&nbsp;wounds upon the country's democratic soul and framework.</p>

<p>"They (INDIA alliance) tainted our democracy with corruption, nepotism, appeasement and casteism. Such nepotistic parties worked to stifle public opinion when in power," said the&nbsp;home minister.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 18) addressed the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) National Convention just months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and exhorted the party workers to work towards making India a developed country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 18) addressed the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) National Convention just months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and exhorted the party workers to work towards making India a developed country. At the convention in New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam, Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence of winning the upcoming elections comfortably and said that today even the opposition leaders are saying that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) will win more than 400 seats this time. PM Modi was referring to the gaffe by Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge in the parliament. "But to take the NDA to 400, the BJP will have to cross the mark of 370 seats," Modi said in the presence of top BJP leaders. Also read | BJP’s 370 seats will be real tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, his fight for J&K’s integration: Modi Stressing on the importance of the upcoming elections for the country, Modi said the next five years are very crucial for the nation. "Our dream and resolution is that we have to make 'Viksit Bharat' and the next 5 years will play an important role in it. In the next 5 years, we have to take a giant leap towards Viksit Bharat," Modi said while urging BJP leaders and workers to work with renewed vigour and confidence in the next 100 days for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "In the next 100 days, we all have to reach out to every new voter, every beneficiary, every community. We've to win everyone's trust," he said. "We are not here to do politics but to serve the country," Modi added. "People keep telling me you have achieved so much, you have fulfilled all major promises, then why are you still working so much? The entire country believes that having a spotless 10-year term and taking 25 crore people out of the poverty line is not a simple task..." he added. #WATCH | Delhi: At the BJP National Convention 2024, PM Narendra Modi says, "I am not asking for the third term to enjoy power... If I had thought about my house, I would not have built houses for crores of poor people. I am living for the future of poor children. The dreams of… pic.twitter.com/dRh3VCiuQK — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2024 × Speaking further he said, "If I had thought about my house, I would not have built houses for crores of poor people. I am living for the future of poor children. The dreams of crores of women, poor, and youth are Modi's resolve...". “We rid country of mega scams, terror attacks; made efforts to improve living standards of poor, middle class. I have received invites from foreign countries to visit them in July, August, September; they also know ‘Aayega to Modi hi’. I am the first PM who raised the issue of toilets from the Red Fort,” PM Modi said. “Several historic and courageous decisions were taken in the last 10 years. We found the solutions of decades-old problems. Wait of five centuries was ended by the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Temple; after seven decades, the Kartarpur Corridor was inaugurated and Article 370 was abrogated. After four decades, the OROP demand was fulfilled. The country got its new education policy and women’s reservation bill was passed. We also brought a law against triple talaq,” he added. BJP passes political resolution The two-day national convention got underway on Saturday. On the first day of the BJP's convention, the party passed a significant political resolution titled 'Viksit Bharat' (advanced India) - highlighting the achievements of the Modi government. #WATCH | Delhi: At the BJP National Convention 2024, PM Narendra Modi says, "...We ensured the death penalty for crimes like rape. To deal with it quickly, special arrangements were also made. I am the first Prime Minister who raised the issue of toilets from Red Fort...I am… pic.twitter.com/elKSbVDKz8 — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2024 × The national convention also passed a resolution on the Ram temple in Ayodhya, asserting that this heralds the establishment of "Ram Rajya" in the country for the next 1,000 years. The BJP said that the Modi government would return to power for a third straight term with a roadmap for expanding its welfare and development programmes. BJP National President JP Nadda urged party workers to surpass the 370 seats-mark in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. NDA would win a 'thumping' mandate in polls: Shah Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who was present at the national convention, said on Sunday that the NDA would win a thumping mandate in the elections and Narendra Modi would return as prime minister for a third straight term in office. Union Home Minister Shah said that Modi not only gave citizens the courage to dream of a "Shrestha Bharat" (great India) but also made a collective effort to realise that dream. Hitting out at the opposition INDIA alliance, Shah said that the bloc was out to defame India and was inflicting wounds upon the country's democratic soul and framework. "They (INDIA alliance) tainted our democracy with corruption, nepotism, appeasement and casteism. Such nepotistic parties worked to stifle public opinion when in power," said the home minister.

At BJP National Convention, PM Modi says, ‘Oppn also raising slogan of NDA winning over 400 seats’

<p>Plans are in motion for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan later this month, marking what is expected to be his final foreign trip of his current term. This visit, plans for which are still underway, holds significance against the backdrop of strengthening ties with the new government in Thimphu and ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity between India and Bhutan.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi's last visit to Bhutan took place in August 2019, marking one of the early foreign engagements of his second term. The timing of this visit is noteworthy, coinciding with the recent assumption of office by the new Bhutanese government under Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, who took charge last month. Additionally, Bhutan is set to celebrate the birthday of Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on 21st February, adding a symbolic dimension to the visit.</p>

<h2><strong>India-Bhutan ties: Focus on regional connectivity, economic cooperation</strong></h2>

<p>The visit comes at a time when India and Bhutan are intensifying efforts to bolster connectivity and economic cooperation. Notably, during his national day address in December, Bhutan's King highlighted the groundbreaking railway project aimed at establishing the first-ever rail connection between Bhutan and India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bhutans-king-highlights-railway-project-with-india-in-national-day-speech-670464">Bhutan's King highlights railway project with India in National Day speech</a></strong></p>

<p>This ambitious initiative seeks to link Bhutan's Gelephu with Assam's Kokrajhar via a rail link, underscoring the deepening economic ties between the two neighboring nations. The project, discussed during King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck's visit to Delhi in November, has seen significant progress with the completion of the Preliminary Engineering-cum-Traffic (PET) survey by Indian Railways, paving the way for its implementation. Bhutan is also planning to develop mega city in Gelephu to attract investment and create employment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Efforts are underway to upgrade infrastructure on both sides of the border, with plans to enhance facilities at the Land Customs station in Dadgiri, Assam, and Gelephu in Bhutan, ensuring a seamless cross-border trade environment. Additionally, both countries are exploring the possibility of establishing a rail link between Banarhat in West Bengal and Samtse in Bhutan, underscoring their commitment to regional connectivity and cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India-Bhutan railway link: Over $10 million allocated for railway project</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-bhutan-railway-link-over-10-million-allocated-for-railway-project-632237/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Financial connectivity has also been a focal point of bilateral cooperation, with the successful launch of the RuPay Card in Bhutan. The initiative, launched in two phases in 2019 and 2020, enables payments in both countries using RuPay cards issued by respective banks, facilitating smoother financial transactions and enhancing economic ties.</p>

<p>Furthermore, the special relationship between India and Bhutan extends to developmental cooperation, with significant collaborations in hydro-power. The 2022 handover of the 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Power Project from the Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project Authority to Bhutan Govt underscores the shared commitment to sustainable energy development and mutual prosperity.</p>


Plans are in motion for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan later this month, marking what is expected to be his final foreign trip of his current term.

Plans are in motion for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan later this month, marking what is expected to be his final foreign trip of his current term. This visit, plans for which are still underway, holds significance against the backdrop of strengthening ties with the new government in Thimphu and ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity between India and Bhutan. Prime Minister Modi's last visit to Bhutan took place in August 2019, marking one of the early foreign engagements of his second term. The timing of this visit is noteworthy, coinciding with the recent assumption of office by the new Bhutanese government under Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, who took charge last month. Additionally, Bhutan is set to celebrate the birthday of Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on 21st February, adding a symbolic dimension to the visit. India-Bhutan ties: Focus on regional connectivity, economic cooperation The visit comes at a time when India and Bhutan are intensifying efforts to bolster connectivity and economic cooperation. Notably, during his national day address in December, Bhutan's King highlighted the groundbreaking railway project aimed at establishing the first-ever rail connection between Bhutan and India. Also read | Bhutan's King highlights railway project with India in National Day speech This ambitious initiative seeks to link Bhutan's Gelephu with Assam's Kokrajhar via a rail link, underscoring the deepening economic ties between the two neighboring nations. The project, discussed during King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck's visit to Delhi in November, has seen significant progress with the completion of the Preliminary Engineering-cum-Traffic (PET) survey by Indian Railways, paving the way for its implementation. Bhutan is also planning to develop mega city in Gelephu to attract investment and create employment. Efforts are underway to upgrade infrastructure on both sides of the border, with plans to enhance facilities at the Land Customs station in Dadgiri, Assam, and Gelephu in Bhutan, ensuring a seamless cross-border trade environment. Additionally, both countries are exploring the possibility of establishing a rail link between Banarhat in West Bengal and Samtse in Bhutan, underscoring their commitment to regional connectivity and cooperation. Also watch | India-Bhutan railway link: Over $10 million allocated for railway project × Financial connectivity has also been a focal point of bilateral cooperation, with the successful launch of the RuPay Card in Bhutan. The initiative, launched in two phases in 2019 and 2020, enables payments in both countries using RuPay cards issued by respective banks, facilitating smoother financial transactions and enhancing economic ties. Furthermore, the special relationship between India and Bhutan extends to developmental cooperation, with significant collaborations in hydro-power. The 2022 handover of the 720 MW Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Power Project from the Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project Authority to Bhutan Govt underscores the shared commitment to sustainable energy development and mutual prosperity.

Indian PM Modi likely to visit Bhutan later this month

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 17) addressed more than 11,000 delegates of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in one of its biggest organisational get-togethers. The meeting focussed on deciding the campaign theme ahead of the upcoming general elections.</p>

<p>Addressing the party workers, PM Modi said they should set the target of winning 370 seats as a tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of Jana Sangh. Jana Sangh was the political arm of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Jana Sangh underwent several transformations before eventually becoming what the world today knows as the BJP, the world’s largest political party.</p>

<p>Syama Prasad Mookerjee campaigned against Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. In August 2019, the Modi government scrapped Article 370, fulfilling a decades-old promise.</p>

<p>Speaking at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, Modi said each party worker should focus on his or her polling booth now, promote the welfare measures and development work of the BJP government among the voters, and ensure that he or she gets 370 more votes than the last time for the party in his or her booth.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | First Hindu temple in UAE: PM Modi to inaugurate BAPS temple</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-first-hindu-temple-in-uae-pm-modi-to-inaugurate-baps-temple-690010/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In the 2019 general elections, PM Modi’s BJP won 303 seats in the lower house of the parliament, surpassing expectations and also the majority mark of 272.</p>

<p>Addressing the media at the BJP National Council meeting, party National General Secretary Vinod Tawde said that PM Modi talked about their party’s Mission 370 for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0Krt074PxHNPWlmbzt_fGr" data-ved="2ahUKEwi_9rTN67KEAxXfqVYBHRn8AFIQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-calls-congress-corrupt-with-polls-just-months-away-690944" jsname="YKoRaf">Indian PM Modi calls Congress `corrupt`, with polls just months away</a></strong></p>

<p>“In today’s meeting, while guiding all the party workers, PM Modi said that BJP will get 370 and NDA 400 (seats), where 370 is not just a number but a tribute from us to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Our campaign will be centred around development, the welfare of the poor and putting the nation at a place of pride in the world, we need to take these things to the people,” Tawde said.</p>

<p>Later, BJP chief JP Nadda told the delegates that BJP was the only party that had maintained the same ideological stand from 1951 to the present day.</p>

<p>He emphasised that despite having a tough, busy schedule, PM Modi gives priority to the party and always thinks about taking it to new heights.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 17) addressed more than 11,000 delegates of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in one of its biggest organisational get-togethers.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 17) addressed more than 11,000 delegates of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in one of its biggest organisational get-togethers. The meeting focussed on deciding the campaign theme ahead of the upcoming general elections. Addressing the party workers, PM Modi said they should set the target of winning 370 seats as a tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the founder of Jana Sangh. Jana Sangh was the political arm of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Jana Sangh underwent several transformations before eventually becoming what the world today knows as the BJP, the world’s largest political party. Syama Prasad Mookerjee campaigned against Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. In August 2019, the Modi government scrapped Article 370, fulfilling a decades-old promise. Speaking at the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, Modi said each party worker should focus on his or her polling booth now, promote the welfare measures and development work of the BJP government among the voters, and ensure that he or she gets 370 more votes than the last time for the party in his or her booth. Watch: Gravitas | First Hindu temple in UAE: PM Modi to inaugurate BAPS temple × In the 2019 general elections, PM Modi’s BJP won 303 seats in the lower house of the parliament, surpassing expectations and also the majority mark of 272. Addressing the media at the BJP National Council meeting, party National General Secretary Vinod Tawde said that PM Modi talked about their party’s Mission 370 for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. Also read: Indian PM Modi calls Congress `corrupt`, with polls just months away “In today’s meeting, while guiding all the party workers, PM Modi said that BJP will get 370 and NDA 400 (seats), where 370 is not just a number but a tribute from us to Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Our campaign will be centred around development, the welfare of the poor and putting the nation at a place of pride in the world, we need to take these things to the people,” Tawde said. Later, BJP chief JP Nadda told the delegates that BJP was the only party that had maintained the same ideological stand from 1951 to the present day. He emphasised that despite having a tough, busy schedule, PM Modi gives priority to the party and always thinks about taking it to new heights. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP’s 370 seats will be real tribute to Syama Prasad Mookerjee, his fight for J&K’s integration: Modi

<p>Indian Agriculture&nbsp;Minister Arjun Munda on Friday (Feb 16) said that the efforts to find a solution continue and the next round of talks between the protesting farmers and the representatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will take place on Sunday (Feb 18).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The third round of talks between farmers, who have been protesting for enactment of a law over Minimum Support Price (MSP) on the borders of Delhi, and the representatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government&nbsp;ended on Thursday (Feb 15) inconclusively.</p>

<p>"This was the third meeting between the farmers and the government. Several issues and topics were raised and discussed. We will surely reach a conclusion if we will carry forward the talks peacefully. I am hopeful that we will soon find a solution. Another meeting with the farmers will be held on Sunday. We will discuss things in that meeting and will find a solution," the Union Minister was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI.</p>

<p>Munda asserted that while making the decision, they have to keep in mind all the aspects of it.</p>

<p>"The decision cannot be taken in such a way that people criticize the situation without thinking and understanding in the coming days. Rather, we should try to keep in mind all the aspects of it and discuss it. The common life of the people should not be troubled in any way," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Indian agriculture minister slams Congress party</strong></h2>

<p>Arjun Munda, the lawmaker from the eastern state of Jharkhand who holds the portfolio of agriculture&nbsp;in the Modi cabinet said that it would be better if the talks that are being held between farmers and the government are not seen from a political viewpoint.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heres-how-farmer-protest-20-differs-from-the-2020-stir-five-points-689883">Here’s how farmers' protest 2.0 differs from the 2020 agitation: Six points</a></strong></p>

<p>"We are trying to hold talks with farmers and farmer organizations. It is better if this is not seen from a political point of view. If Congress is looking at this from a political point of view, then they should keep in mind that why did they not make decisions then on the issues that are coming up today?" the Union Minister said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Farmers Protest: Punjab government sounds alert in hospitals near Haryana border areas</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/farmers-protest-punjab-government-sounds-alert-in-hospitals-near-haryana-border-areas-690201/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Meanwhile, the agitating farmers continued with their effort to enter the national capital amid&nbsp;security forces deployed at the Shambhu Border on the fourth day on Friday (Feb 16).</p>

<p>The police fired tear gas to disperse the farmers while the protestors were seen pelting stones towards the police.</p>

<p>The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have given a "Delhi Chalo" call to press the BJP-led Centre to accept their demands.</p>

<p>Farmers from Punjab began their march to the national capital on Tuesday (Feb 13) but were stopped by security personnel at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda on Friday (Feb 16) said that the efforts to find a solution continue and the next round of talks between the protesting farmers and the representatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will take place on Sunday (Feb 18).

Indian Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda on Friday (Feb 16) said that the efforts to find a solution continue and the next round of talks between the protesting farmers and the representatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government will take place on Sunday (Feb 18). The third round of talks between farmers, who have been protesting for enactment of a law over Minimum Support Price (MSP) on the borders of Delhi, and the representatives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government ended on Thursday (Feb 15) inconclusively. "This was the third meeting between the farmers and the government. Several issues and topics were raised and discussed. We will surely reach a conclusion if we will carry forward the talks peacefully. I am hopeful that we will soon find a solution. Another meeting with the farmers will be held on Sunday. We will discuss things in that meeting and will find a solution," the Union Minister was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI. Munda asserted that while making the decision, they have to keep in mind all the aspects of it. "The decision cannot be taken in such a way that people criticize the situation without thinking and understanding in the coming days. Rather, we should try to keep in mind all the aspects of it and discuss it. The common life of the people should not be troubled in any way," he said. Indian agriculture minister slams Congress party Arjun Munda, the lawmaker from the eastern state of Jharkhand who holds the portfolio of agriculture in the Modi cabinet said that it would be better if the talks that are being held between farmers and the government are not seen from a political viewpoint. Also read | Here’s how farmers' protest 2.0 differs from the 2020 agitation: Six points "We are trying to hold talks with farmers and farmer organizations. It is better if this is not seen from a political point of view. If Congress is looking at this from a political point of view, then they should keep in mind that why did they not make decisions then on the issues that are coming up today?" the Union Minister said. Also watch | Farmers Protest: Punjab government sounds alert in hospitals near Haryana border areas × Meanwhile, the agitating farmers continued with their effort to enter the national capital amid security forces deployed at the Shambhu Border on the fourth day on Friday (Feb 16). The police fired tear gas to disperse the farmers while the protestors were seen pelting stones towards the police. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have given a "Delhi Chalo" call to press the BJP-led Centre to accept their demands. Farmers from Punjab began their march to the national capital on Tuesday (Feb 13) but were stopped by security personnel at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana. (With inputs from agencies)

Farmers' protest: Indian government to enter fourth round of talks with protestors on Feb 18

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a&nbsp;visit to the northern state of Haryana, laid the foundation stone of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rewari on Friday (Feb 16).</p>

<p>He also laid the&nbsp;foundation stones of other multiple development projects related to urban transport, health, rail and tourism sectors&nbsp;worth more than 11,76,857 USD.</p>

<p>AIIMS-Rewari will be built at a cost of over 1,98,752.73 USD on 203 acres of land in Majra Bhalkhi village.</p>

<p>The officials said that the residents of Haryana and the adjoining states will&nbsp;greatly benefit from the opening of the medical institute because of the healthcare facilities it will provide.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Rewari AIIMS, various Railway Projects in North Western Railway/Northern Railway and others, in Rewari. <a href="https://t.co/KsOCKEFSRc">pic.twitter.com/KsOCKEFSRc</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1758410420040130736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</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>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Established under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), the project, with a total length of 28.5 km, is set to create a passage between Millennium City Centre and Udyog Vihar Phase-5 and also connect it with the existing metro network of Rapid Metro Rail Gurugram at Moulsari Avenue station near Cyber City.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-congress-claims-its-bank-accounts-have-been-frozen-ahead-of-lok-sabha-polls-690844">India: Congress' 'frozen' bank accounts now operational</a></p>

<p>The Indian prime minister also inaugurated a newly constructed Anubhav Kendra Jyotisar in Kurukshetra, which is designed to bring the narrative of the Mahabharata and the teachings of the Gita to life.</p>

<p>PM Modi also flagged off a new train service between Rohtak-Meham-Hansi, in Rewari which is set to cut down&nbsp;the travel time between Rohtak and Hisar.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="et"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off new train service between Rohtak-Meham-Hansi, in Rewari <a href="https://t.co/aMrLPWlsqW">pic.twitter.com/aMrLPWlsqW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1758410130788438292?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</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>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar felicitated PM Modi and said, "This is a special occasion when PM Modi is amongst us... When you (PM Modi) were the CM in Gujarat in 2013 and people were seeing you as the PM, you started your campaign from Rewari...Today, you are fulfilling the aspiration and dream of the people of Rewari by giving AIIMS to them..."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">2013 में 272 पार<br />
2024 में 400 पार...<br />
<br />
AIIMS रेवाड़ी, गुरुग्राम मेट्रो विस्तारीकरण, रोहतक-हांसी नई रेलवे लाइन जैसी बड़ी परियोजनाओं के लिए आभार मोदी जी !<br />
<br />
रेवाड़ी से प्रधानमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> जी का पुराना रिश्ता रहा है और आज उनके स्वागत में उमड़े जनसमूह ने जो आशीर्वाद… <a href="https://t.co/kz40dIHYf5">pic.twitter.com/kz40dIHYf5</a></p>
— Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) <a href="https://twitter.com/mlkhattar/status/1758441233834217903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</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>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Metro station project in Gurugram will not only help people from Gurugram or the country but also those foreign companies who are here to invest... In the last 10 years, the way you have guided us, especially after the Pran Pratistha (Ram Mandir), has increased trust in our leadership...," CM Khattar added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a visit to the northern state of Haryana, laid the foundation stone of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rewari on Friday (Feb 16).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on a visit to the northern state of Haryana, laid the foundation stone of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rewari on Friday (Feb 16). He also laid the foundation stones of other multiple development projects related to urban transport, health, rail and tourism sectors worth more than 11,76,857 USD. AIIMS-Rewari will be built at a cost of over 1,98,752.73 USD on 203 acres of land in Majra Bhalkhi village. The officials said that the residents of Haryana and the adjoining states will greatly benefit from the opening of the medical institute because of the healthcare facilities it will provide. #WATCH | Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates Rewari AIIMS, various Railway Projects in North Western Railway/Northern Railway and others, in Rewari. pic.twitter.com/KsOCKEFSRc — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2024 × Established under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), the project, with a total length of 28.5 km, is set to create a passage between Millennium City Centre and Udyog Vihar Phase-5 and also connect it with the existing metro network of Rapid Metro Rail Gurugram at Moulsari Avenue station near Cyber City. Also read: India: Congress' 'frozen' bank accounts now operational The Indian prime minister also inaugurated a newly constructed Anubhav Kendra Jyotisar in Kurukshetra, which is designed to bring the narrative of the Mahabharata and the teachings of the Gita to life. PM Modi also flagged off a new train service between Rohtak-Meham-Hansi, in Rewari which is set to cut down the travel time between Rohtak and Hisar. #WATCH | Haryana: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off new train service between Rohtak-Meham-Hansi, in Rewari pic.twitter.com/aMrLPWlsqW — ANI (@ANI) February 16, 2024 × Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar felicitated PM Modi and said, "This is a special occasion when PM Modi is amongst us... When you (PM Modi) were the CM in Gujarat in 2013 and people were seeing you as the PM, you started your campaign from Rewari...Today, you are fulfilling the aspiration and dream of the people of Rewari by giving AIIMS to them..." 2013 में 272 पार 2024 में 400 पार... AIIMS रेवाड़ी, गुरुग्राम मेट्रो विस्तारीकरण, रोहतक-हांसी नई रेलवे लाइन जैसी बड़ी परियोजनाओं के लिए आभार मोदी जी ! रेवाड़ी से प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी का पुराना रिश्ता रहा है और आज उनके स्वागत में उमड़े जनसमूह ने जो आशीर्वाद… pic.twitter.com/kz40dIHYf5 — Manohar Lal (@mlkhattar) February 16, 2024 × "The Metro station project in Gurugram will not only help people from Gurugram or the country but also those foreign companies who are here to invest... In the last 10 years, the way you have guided us, especially after the Pran Pratistha (Ram Mandir), has increased trust in our leadership...," CM Khattar added. (With inputs from agencies)

India: PM Modi lays foundation stone of AIIMS in Haryana's Rewari

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 13) addressed the Indian diaspora in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), at the 'Ahlan Modi' event. He said that the goal of every Indian is to make the nation&nbsp;developed by 2047.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his address, he hailed recent achievements by India. He said: "Which country has the world's third-largest start-up ecosystem? Our India. Which country reached Mars in its very first attempt? Our India. Which country reached the lunar south pole? Our India. Which country made the record of launching 100 satellites simultaneously? Our India. Which country developed 5G technology on its own and rolled it out the quickest? Our India."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He called the people his "family members" and told them that he brought the fragrance of the soil where they were born and brought the message of 140 crore people. "The message is that Bharat is proud of you," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-launches-rooftop-solar-scheme-pm-surya-ghar-muft-bijli-yojana-to-provide-free-electricity-689968">PM Modi launches rooftop solar scheme 'PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana' to provide free electricity</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Overwhelmed by the affection at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AhlanModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AhlanModi</a> community programme in Abu Dhabi.<a href="https://t.co/dZJ5oPz73R">https://t.co/dZJ5oPz73R</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1757421616508678547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2024</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>

<h2><strong>PM Modi hails India-UAE ties&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi told the audience that they have created history as they have come from all corners of the UAE and different states of India.&nbsp;Hailing the India-UAE ties, the Indian prime minister said that everyone's heart is connected and at that "historic stadium, every heartbeat, every breath, every voice says - Long live India-UAE friendship".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi said that it was his seventh visit to the UAE in the last 10 years. He also highlighted the strong bond with UAE leadership by recounting that Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed came to receive him at the airport during the ongoing visit, similar to 2015. PM Modi said that this "makes him special".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch video as&nbsp;PM Modi greeted&nbsp;people gathered at the Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi, UAE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets people gathered at the Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi, UAE<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AhlanModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AhlanModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/b56JxS0RVY">pic.twitter.com/b56JxS0RVY</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1757433270453612963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2024</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>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uae-agree-to-link-their-instant-payment-platforms-domestic-cards-rupay-and-jaywan-689950">India-UAE agree to link their instant payment platforms, domestic cards RuPay and JAYWAN</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Indian PM also said that he feels "fortunate" that the UAE has awarded him with its highest civilian award - The Order of Zayed. He said, "This honour is not just mine but that of the crores of Indians, of all of you."&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi said, "Our relation is that of talent, innovation and culture. In the past, we have re-energised our relations, in every direction. The two countries have walked together and have gone ahead together."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, UAE is India's third largest trade partner. Today, UAE is the seventh largest investor. Both the countries are cooperating a lot in Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Even today, the MoUs that were signed between us are taking forward this commitment. We are integrating our financial system. In the field of technology and innovation, India and UAE partnership is strengthening continuously. In the area of community and culture, what India-UAE have achieved is a model for the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 13) addressed the Indian diaspora in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), at the 'Ahlan Modi' event. He said that the goal of every Indian is to make the nation developed by 2047.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 13) addressed the Indian diaspora in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), at the 'Ahlan Modi' event. He said that the goal of every Indian is to make the nation developed by 2047. During his address, he hailed recent achievements by India. He said: "Which country has the world's third-largest start-up ecosystem? Our India. Which country reached Mars in its very first attempt? Our India. Which country reached the lunar south pole? Our India. Which country made the record of launching 100 satellites simultaneously? Our India. Which country developed 5G technology on its own and rolled it out the quickest? Our India." He called the people his "family members" and told them that he brought the fragrance of the soil where they were born and brought the message of 140 crore people. "The message is that Bharat is proud of you," he said. Also read: PM Modi launches rooftop solar scheme 'PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana' to provide free electricity Overwhelmed by the affection at the #AhlanModi community programme in Abu Dhabi.https://t.co/dZJ5oPz73R — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2024 × PM Modi hails India-UAE ties PM Modi told the audience that they have created history as they have come from all corners of the UAE and different states of India. Hailing the India-UAE ties, the Indian prime minister said that everyone's heart is connected and at that "historic stadium, every heartbeat, every breath, every voice says - Long live India-UAE friendship". Modi said that it was his seventh visit to the UAE in the last 10 years. He also highlighted the strong bond with UAE leadership by recounting that Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed came to receive him at the airport during the ongoing visit, similar to 2015. PM Modi said that this "makes him special". Watch video as PM Modi greeted people gathered at the Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi, UAE: #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets people gathered at the Zayed Sports Stadium in Abu Dhabi, UAE #AhlanModi pic.twitter.com/b56JxS0RVY — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2024 × Also read: India-UAE agree to link their instant payment platforms, domestic cards RuPay and JAYWAN The Indian PM also said that he feels "fortunate" that the UAE has awarded him with its highest civilian award - The Order of Zayed. He said, "This honour is not just mine but that of the crores of Indians, of all of you." PM Modi said, "Our relation is that of talent, innovation and culture. In the past, we have re-energised our relations, in every direction. The two countries have walked together and have gone ahead together." "Today, UAE is India's third largest trade partner. Today, UAE is the seventh largest investor. Both the countries are cooperating a lot in Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business," he added. He said, "Even today, the MoUs that were signed between us are taking forward this commitment. We are integrating our financial system. In the field of technology and innovation, India and UAE partnership is strengthening continuously. In the area of community and culture, what India-UAE have achieved is a model for the world." (With inputs from agencies)

India aims to become developed by 2047, PM Modi tells diaspora in Abu Dhabi

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 13) launched a million-dollar project of rooftop solar scheme to provide free electricity to consumers across the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The central government is aiming to provide 300 units of free electricity per month to the beneficiaries of the scheme by investing worth ₹75,000 crores ($9.02 billion).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The scheme was announced by the Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman when she presented the interim budget on February 1.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uae-agree-to-link-their-instant-payment-platforms-domestic-cards-rupay-and-jaywan-689950">India-UAE agree to link their instant payment platforms, domestic cards RuPay and JAYWAN</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>PM Modi said, "In order to further sustainable development and people's well-being, we are launching the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This project, with an investment of over Rs 75,000 crores, aims to light up 1 crore households by providing up to 300 units of free electricity every month," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From substantive subsidies, which will be given directly to people's bank accounts, to heavily concessional bank loans, the Central Government will ensure that there is no cost burden on the people. All stakeholders will be integrated to a National Online Portal which will further convenience," Modi said in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister further said that local bodies, such as panchayats, will be incentivised to promote rooftop solar systems in their jurisdictions in order to popularise this scheme at the grassroots level.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-claims-farmers-to-get-legal-guarantees-for-msp-after-india-alliance-forms-govt-689951">Rahul Gandhi claims farmers to get legal guarantees for MSP after INDIA alliance forms govt</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Farmers protest India: Protesting farmers march to Delhi, what are their demands?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/farmers-protest-india-protesting-farmers-march-to-delhi-what-are-their-demands-689960/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The Indian leader will lead to more income, lesser power bills and employment generation for people besides providing free electricity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Let's boost solar power and sustainable progress. I urge all residential consumers, especially youngsters, to strengthen the PM - Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana by applying at -- pmsuryaghar.gov.in," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government expects that the benefits from the scheme will help in savings of up to Rs 15,000-18,000 crore annually for households from free solar electricity. The government is also selling the surplus to the distribution companies; charging electric vehicles; entrepreneurship opportunities for a large number of vendors for supply and installation; and employment opportunities for the youth with technical skills in manufacturing, installation and maintenance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 13) launched a million-dollar project of rooftop solar scheme to provide free electricity to consumers across the nation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Feb 13) launched a million-dollar project of rooftop solar scheme to provide free electricity to consumers across the nation. The central government is aiming to provide 300 units of free electricity per month to the beneficiaries of the scheme by investing worth ₹75,000 crores ($9.02 billion). The scheme was announced by the Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman when she presented the interim budget on February 1. Also read: India-UAE agree to link their instant payment platforms, domestic cards RuPay and JAYWAN PM Modi said, "In order to further sustainable development and people's well-being, we are launching the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana." "This project, with an investment of over Rs 75,000 crores, aims to light up 1 crore households by providing up to 300 units of free electricity every month," he added. "From substantive subsidies, which will be given directly to people's bank accounts, to heavily concessional bank loans, the Central Government will ensure that there is no cost burden on the people. All stakeholders will be integrated to a National Online Portal which will further convenience," Modi said in a post on X. The Indian prime minister further said that local bodies, such as panchayats, will be incentivised to promote rooftop solar systems in their jurisdictions in order to popularise this scheme at the grassroots level. Also read: Rahul Gandhi claims farmers to get legal guarantees for MSP after INDIA alliance forms govt Watch: Farmers protest India: Protesting farmers march to Delhi, what are their demands? × The Indian leader will lead to more income, lesser power bills and employment generation for people besides providing free electricity. "Let's boost solar power and sustainable progress. I urge all residential consumers, especially youngsters, to strengthen the PM - Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana by applying at -- pmsuryaghar.gov.in," PM Modi said. The government expects that the benefits from the scheme will help in savings of up to Rs 15,000-18,000 crore annually for households from free solar electricity. The government is also selling the surplus to the distribution companies; charging electric vehicles; entrepreneurship opportunities for a large number of vendors for supply and installation; and employment opportunities for the youth with technical skills in manufacturing, installation and maintenance. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi launches rooftop solar scheme ‘PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana’ for 10mn households

<p>The famous Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with the Indian Tricolour hours before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's keynote address to the 2024 World Governments Summit on Wednesday (Feb 14).&nbsp;</p>

<p>On his two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the prime minister is also set to inaugurate the BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi on February 14, which is the first Hindu temple in the Emirates and has stunning architecture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in a post on X, said, "We extend a warm welcome to the Republic of India, the guest of honour at this year’s World Governments Summit, and to His Excellency Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. The strong ties between our nations serve as a model for international co-operation."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We extend a warm welcome to the Republic of India, the guest of honour at this year’s World Governments Summit, and to His Excellency Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. The strong ties between our nations serve as a model for international cooperation.<br />
The… <a href="https://t.co/enMaunw4oT">pic.twitter.com/enMaunw4oT</a></p>
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) <a href="https://twitter.com/HamdanMohammed/status/1757468540326531464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2024</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>

<p>"The @WorldGovSummit has evolved into one of the world’s leading platforms for sharing governance best practices, success stories and initiatives, and envisioning the future of government. It is a pleasure to have India as a distinguished guest at this international event, where it will showcase its innovations, initiatives and projects across diverse sectors that are a model for accelerating development for government service delivery," stated the Crown Prince, in his post.</p>

<p>He further shared an image of the Burj Khalifa with the Indian flag emblazoned on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-leaves-to-visit-uae-and-qatar-two-busy-days-ahead-689767">PM Modi reaches UAE, meets President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan</a></p>

<h2><strong>UAE makes me feel at home, says Modi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Modi reached Abu Dhabi on Tuesday (Feb 13),&nbsp;marking his&nbsp;seventh visit to the UAE&nbsp;since he assumed office in 2014.</p>

<p>After landing, the Indian prime minister said that coming to the UAE made him "feel at home."</p>

<p>UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan greeted PM Modi after which he was accorded the Guard of Honour. A bilateral meeting was also held by the two leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday (Feb 13), PM Modi also held interactions with the Indian community in Abu Dhabi and spoke at the 'Ahlan Modi' cultural event.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi UAE Visit: PM Modi to inaugurate Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple BAPS today</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-uae-visit-pm-modi-to-inaugurate-abu-dhabis-first-hindu-temple-baps-today-690061/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>On Wednesday, the prime minister will inaugurate Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple - the BAPS Mandir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The BAPS temple will be an enduring tribute to the values of harmony, peace and tolerance, which both India and the UAE share," Modi said.</p>

<p>After completing his visit to UAE, Modi will be travelling to Qatar, his second trip to the Gulf nation since 2014.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The famous Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with the Indian Tricolour hours before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's keynote address to the 2024 World Governments Summit on Wednesday (Feb 14).

The famous Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with the Indian Tricolour hours before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's keynote address to the 2024 World Governments Summit on Wednesday (Feb 14). On his two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the prime minister is also set to inaugurate the BAPS Mandir in Abu Dhabi on February 14, which is the first Hindu temple in the Emirates and has stunning architecture. Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in a post on X, said, "We extend a warm welcome to the Republic of India, the guest of honour at this year’s World Governments Summit, and to His Excellency Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. The strong ties between our nations serve as a model for international co-operation." We extend a warm welcome to the Republic of India, the guest of honour at this year’s World Governments Summit, and to His Excellency Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India. The strong ties between our nations serve as a model for international cooperation. The… pic.twitter.com/enMaunw4oT — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 13, 2024 × "The @WorldGovSummit has evolved into one of the world’s leading platforms for sharing governance best practices, success stories and initiatives, and envisioning the future of government. It is a pleasure to have India as a distinguished guest at this international event, where it will showcase its innovations, initiatives and projects across diverse sectors that are a model for accelerating development for government service delivery," stated the Crown Prince, in his post. He further shared an image of the Burj Khalifa with the Indian flag emblazoned on it. Also Read: PM Modi reaches UAE, meets President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan UAE makes me feel at home, says Modi Indian Prime Minister Modi reached Abu Dhabi on Tuesday (Feb 13), marking his seventh visit to the UAE since he assumed office in 2014. After landing, the Indian prime minister said that coming to the UAE made him "feel at home." UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan greeted PM Modi after which he was accorded the Guard of Honour. A bilateral meeting was also held by the two leaders. On Tuesday (Feb 13), PM Modi also held interactions with the Indian community in Abu Dhabi and spoke at the 'Ahlan Modi' cultural event. Watch: PM Modi UAE Visit: PM Modi to inaugurate Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple BAPS today On Wednesday, the prime minister will inaugurate Abu Dhabi's first Hindu temple - the BAPS Mandir. "The BAPS temple will be an enduring tribute to the values of harmony, peace and tolerance, which both India and the UAE share," Modi said. After completing his visit to UAE, Modi will be travelling to Qatar, his second trip to the Gulf nation since 2014. (With inputs from agencies)

Dubai's Burj Khalifa lit up with Indian flag colours amid PM Modi's visit

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid887Tc44ERDKQ" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid887Tc44ERDKQ" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Jhabua district on Sunday (Feb 11). During the rally, Prime Minister Modi lashed out at the Congress party by saying that it did not care about the tribal youth and children despite being in power for many years. "Congress ruled for so many years, and they got a chance to work, but only 100 Ekalavya schools were opened...The BJP government has opened four times more Ekalavya schools in the past ten years," Modi said.</p>

<p>"It is not acceptable to Modi if even a single tribal child is left behind due to a lack of education. Our tribal society has been earning its living from forest wealth for thousands of years," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reform-perform-transform-with-97-pc-efficiency-pm-modi-on-his-2nd-term-in-power-688957">PM Modi dubs his second term in power as ‘gamechanger’ for the country, economy</a></strong></p>

<p>Modi also pointed out that during the Congress rule, legal safeguards were put on the rights of the tribals.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Cong dividing people over caste'</strong></h2>

<p>During the rally in Jhabua, PM Modi also said that the Congress was trying to create a divide among people in the name of caste, language and region. Modi said that when the party was in power, it would loot and when out of power, it would divide and get people to fight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prime minister further asserted confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would win the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Modi said that while the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was sure to get 400 seats in the elections, the BJP would alone cross the 370-mark.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: PM Modi set to win third term, survey says</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pm-modi-set-to-win-third-term-survey-says-key-regional-leaders-woo-bjp-688796/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Before the rally, Modi held a roadshow in Jhabua. People gathered on both sides of the road, showered petals on the PM, and chanted slogans as the Prime Minister greeted them on his way to the venue of his public rally, a report by the news agency ANI said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also laid the foundation stone of various developmental projects in the district which would benefit the tribal population of the region.&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Jhabua district on Sunday (Feb 11). During the rally, Prime Minister Modi lashed out at the Congress party by saying that it did not care about the tribal youth and children despite being in power for many years.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a rally in Madhya Pradesh's Jhabua district on Sunday (Feb 11). During the rally, Prime Minister Modi lashed out at the Congress party by saying that it did not care about the tribal youth and children despite being in power for many years. "Congress ruled for so many years, and they got a chance to work, but only 100 Ekalavya schools were opened...The BJP government has opened four times more Ekalavya schools in the past ten years," Modi said. "It is not acceptable to Modi if even a single tribal child is left behind due to a lack of education. Our tribal society has been earning its living from forest wealth for thousands of years," he added. Also read | PM Modi dubs his second term in power as ‘gamechanger’ for the country, economy Modi also pointed out that during the Congress rule, legal safeguards were put on the rights of the tribals. 'Cong dividing people over caste' During the rally in Jhabua, PM Modi also said that the Congress was trying to create a divide among people in the name of caste, language and region. Modi said that when the party was in power, it would loot and when out of power, it would divide and get people to fight. The prime minister further asserted confidence that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) would win the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Modi said that while the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was sure to get 400 seats in the elections, the BJP would alone cross the 370-mark. Also watch | Gravitas: PM Modi set to win third term, survey says × Before the rally, Modi held a roadshow in Jhabua. People gathered on both sides of the road, showered petals on the PM, and chanted slogans as the Prime Minister greeted them on his way to the venue of his public rally, a report by the news agency ANI said. He also laid the foundation stone of various developmental projects in the district which would benefit the tribal population of the region.

In India's MP, PM Modi lashes out at Cong for neglecting tribals

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 11) called for the urgent need to ensure the rootedness of the country's education system in Indian values.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a virtual address commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Arya Samaj founder Swami Dayanand Saraswati in Gujarat's Tankara, about 1,180km west of New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the significance of the DAV (Dayanand Anglo Vedic) institution as a living memory. PM Modi hailed Maharshi Dayanand as a revered figure whose contribution to women's rights remains exemplary.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Key education budget milestones in the Modi era</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/key-education-budget-milestones-in-the-modi-era-680435/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"An education system based on Indian values is the need of the hour. Arya Samaj schools have been a centre for this. The country is now expanding it through the National Education Policy. It is our responsibility to connect society with these efforts," Modi said.</p>

<p>Swami Dayanand, during his time (1824-1883), advocated for equal rights for women in society. PM Modi also mentioned the recent enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, a law that facilitated women's reservation in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-new-education-policy-focuses-on-learning-than-studying-pm-modi-325703">India's new education policy focuses on 'learning' than 'studying': PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>Encouraging students within the DAV educational network, Prime Minister Modi urged them to connect with 'Mera Yuva Bharat,' an autonomous body established by the Ministry of Youth Affairs &amp; Sports, Government of India, dedicated to the country's youth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also pitched this collaboration as a powerful means to link the new generation with the life and teachings of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati.</p>

<p>Swami Dayanand was born in Gujarat and was deeply active in Haryana in northern India. The Prime Minister spoke about his connection with both regions and acknowledged the profound influence of Swami Dayananda on his life and said that "his teachings have shaped my perspective, and his legacy remains an integral part of my journey."</p>

<p>"Our social evils were used as a means by the British government to portray us as inferior. Some justified the British rule by referencing social changes. Swami Dayananda’s advent dealt a severe blow to these conspiracies."</p>

<p>The Arya Samaj founder also propagated a logical explanation of the Vedas and took on the stereotypes of orthodoxy while explaining the real nature of Indian philosophy.</p>

<p>"The result was that confidence started returning in society. People started knowing the Vedic religion and started connecting with its teachings," PM Modi said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 11) called for the urgent need to ensure the rootedness of the country's education system in Indian values. In a virtual address commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Arya Samaj founder Swami Dayanand Saraswati in Gujarat's Tankara, about 1,180km west of New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the significance of the DAV (Dayanand Anglo Vedic) institution as a living memory.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (Feb 11) called for the urgent need to ensure the rootedness of the country's education system in Indian values. In a virtual address commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Arya Samaj founder Swami Dayanand Saraswati in Gujarat's Tankara, about 1,180km west of New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the significance of the DAV (Dayanand Anglo Vedic) institution as a living memory. PM Modi hailed Maharshi Dayanand as a revered figure whose contribution to women's rights remains exemplary. Also watch | Key education budget milestones in the Modi era × "An education system based on Indian values is the need of the hour. Arya Samaj schools have been a centre for this. The country is now expanding it through the National Education Policy. It is our responsibility to connect society with these efforts," Modi said. Swami Dayanand, during his time (1824-1883), advocated for equal rights for women in society. PM Modi also mentioned the recent enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, a law that facilitated women's reservation in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. Also read | India's new education policy focuses on 'learning' than 'studying': PM Modi Encouraging students within the DAV educational network, Prime Minister Modi urged them to connect with 'Mera Yuva Bharat,' an autonomous body established by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, dedicated to the country's youth. He also pitched this collaboration as a powerful means to link the new generation with the life and teachings of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati. Swami Dayanand was born in Gujarat and was deeply active in Haryana in northern India. The Prime Minister spoke about his connection with both regions and acknowledged the profound influence of Swami Dayananda on his life and said that "his teachings have shaped my perspective, and his legacy remains an integral part of my journey." "Our social evils were used as a means by the British government to portray us as inferior. Some justified the British rule by referencing social changes. Swami Dayananda’s advent dealt a severe blow to these conspiracies." The Arya Samaj founder also propagated a logical explanation of the Vedas and took on the stereotypes of orthodoxy while explaining the real nature of Indian philosophy. "The result was that confidence started returning in society. People started knowing the Vedic religion and started connecting with its teachings," PM Modi said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi holds DAV in high regard, says education system must be rooted in Indian values

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his third address to the parliament in less than a week, dubbed his second term in power as 'gamechanger' for the world's fifth largest economy which was world's 11th biggest when he was first elected to power in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Lok Sabha, Prime Minister&nbsp;Narendra Modi said, "These five years were about reform, perform and transform in the country. It is very rare that both reform and perform take place and we can see transformation right in front of our eyes...The country is experiencing this through the 17th Lok Sabha and I firmly believe that the country will continue to bless the 17th Lok Sabha."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-pray-that-you-keep-40-seats-with-you-pm-modis-jibe-at-congress-687851">I pray that you keep 40 seats with you: Indian PM Modi’s jibe at Congress</a></strong></p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the past five years of BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government were about "reform, perform and transform" in the country. Modi, who represents the holy town of Varanasi in the Lok Sabha, said that&nbsp;it is rare that transformation due to these measures could also be experienced in the same period.</p>

<p>Addressing the 17 Lok Sabha on the last day of its last session, PM Modi also lauded the role of Speaker Om Birla in running the House&nbsp;since he&nbsp;succeeded Sumitra Mahajan in 2019 as the chairperson of the lower house of Indian parliament.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi's Parliament speech: 'India will become third largest economy, this is Modi's guarantee'</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modis-parliament-speech-india-will-become-third-largest-economy-this-is-modis-guarantee-687242/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"In five years of the 17th Lok Sabha, several important decisions have been taken and facing several challenges everyone according to their capability tried to give right direction to the country," Modi said.</p>

<p>"In a way, it is a day to rededicate ourselves to the country after five years of ideological journey and time devoted to the service of the country," he added.</p>

<p>The Indian Prime Minister said that 17th Lok Sabha had 97 per cent productivity.</p>

<p>The budget session of Indian Parliament began on January 31 and was extended by a day till February 10.</p>

<p>This is also the last session of Indian parliament before the general elections in the spring later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his third address to the parliament in less than a week, dubbed his second term in power as 'gamechanger' for the world's fifth largest economy which was world's 11th biggest when he was first elected to power in 2014.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his third address to the parliament in less than a week, dubbed his second term in power as 'gamechanger' for the world's fifth largest economy which was world's 11th biggest when he was first elected to power in 2014. In Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "These five years were about reform, perform and transform in the country. It is very rare that both reform and perform take place and we can see transformation right in front of our eyes...The country is experiencing this through the 17th Lok Sabha and I firmly believe that the country will continue to bless the 17th Lok Sabha." Also read | I pray that you keep 40 seats with you: Indian PM Modi’s jibe at Congress Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the past five years of BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government were about "reform, perform and transform" in the country. Modi, who represents the holy town of Varanasi in the Lok Sabha, said that it is rare that transformation due to these measures could also be experienced in the same period. Addressing the 17 Lok Sabha on the last day of its last session, PM Modi also lauded the role of Speaker Om Birla in running the House since he succeeded Sumitra Mahajan in 2019 as the chairperson of the lower house of Indian parliament. Also watch | PM Modi's Parliament speech: 'India will become third largest economy, this is Modi's guarantee' × "In five years of the 17th Lok Sabha, several important decisions have been taken and facing several challenges everyone according to their capability tried to give right direction to the country," Modi said. "In a way, it is a day to rededicate ourselves to the country after five years of ideological journey and time devoted to the service of the country," he added. The Indian Prime Minister said that 17th Lok Sabha had 97 per cent productivity. The budget session of Indian Parliament began on January 31 and was extended by a day till February 10. This is also the last session of Indian parliament before the general elections in the spring later this year. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi dubs his second term in power as ‘gamechanger’ for the country, economy

<p>Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan aka MS Swaminathan has been announced as one of the recipients of the esteemed Bharat Ratna award. The eminent agronomist and agricultural scientist will be conferred with the prestigious award for his contributions to Indian agriculture and farmer's welfare.</p>

<p>Announcing the award, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X said: "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-former-prime-ministers-pv-narasimha-rao-to-be-awarded-bharat-ratna-688656">India: How PV Narasimha Rao nearly left politics before becoming prime minister</a></strong></p>

<p>"We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs," he further wrote.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is MS Swaminathan?</strong></h2>

<p>Swaminathan was an Indian agronomist, agricultural scientist, plant geneticist, administrator, and humanitarian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is known as the main architect of India's green revolution, due to his leadership and role in introducing and further developing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>A Saviour</strong></h2>

<p>Swaminathan is known for his efforts that saved India and Pakistan from certain famine-like conditions&nbsp;in the 1960s. He did this in collaboration with Norman Borlaug, an economic agronomist.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-ratna-to-chaudhary-charan-singh-a-true-champion-of-farmers-and-staunch-advocate-of-inclusive-growth-688664">Bharat Ratna to Chaudhary Charan Singh, a true 'champion of farmers' and staunch advocate of inclusive growth</a></strong></p>

<p>Swaminathan was called as the "Father of Economic Ecology" by the United Nations Environment Programme and&nbsp;worked as the director general of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Awards and honours</strong></h2>

<p>Swaminathan who is due to be awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumous, has been the recipient of numerous awards and honours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was the president of the Pugwash Conferences and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In 1999, he was one of the&nbsp;three Indians, along with Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, to be featured on Time's list of the 20 most influential Asian people of the 20th century.&nbsp;He was awarded the first World Food Prize, the highest honour in the field of agriculture, in 1987.</p>

<p>His honours include the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, the Ramon Magsaysay Award and the Albert Einstein World Science Award.&nbsp;Swaminathan passed away last year in September at the age&nbsp;of 98.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan aka MS Swaminathan has been announced as one of the recipients of the esteemed Bharat Ratna award. The eminent agronomist and agricultural scientist will be conferred with the prestigious award for his contributions to Indian agriculture and farmer's welfare.

Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan aka MS Swaminathan has been announced as one of the recipients of the esteemed Bharat Ratna award. The eminent agronomist and agricultural scientist will be conferred with the prestigious award for his contributions to Indian agriculture and farmer's welfare. Announcing the award, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on X said: "It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture." Also read | India: How PV Narasimha Rao nearly left politics before becoming prime minister "We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs," he further wrote. Who is MS Swaminathan? Swaminathan was an Indian agronomist, agricultural scientist, plant geneticist, administrator, and humanitarian. He is known as the main architect of India's green revolution, due to his leadership and role in introducing and further developing high-yielding varieties of wheat and rice. A Saviour Swaminathan is known for his efforts that saved India and Pakistan from certain famine-like conditions in the 1960s. He did this in collaboration with Norman Borlaug, an economic agronomist. Also read | Bharat Ratna to Chaudhary Charan Singh, a true 'champion of farmers' and staunch advocate of inclusive growth Swaminathan was called as the "Father of Economic Ecology" by the United Nations Environment Programme and worked as the director general of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines. Awards and honours Swaminathan who is due to be awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumous, has been the recipient of numerous awards and honours. He was the president of the Pugwash Conferences and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. In 1999, he was one of the three Indians, along with Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, to be featured on Time's list of the 20 most influential Asian people of the 20th century. He was awarded the first World Food Prize, the highest honour in the field of agriculture, in 1987. His honours include the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, the Ramon Magsaysay Award and the Albert Einstein World Science Award. Swaminathan passed away last year in September at the age of 98. (With inputs from agencies)

'Father of Economic Ecology': All you need to know about Bharat Ratna recipient MS Swaminathan

<p>Launching a scathing attack on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday alleged that he was not born in an Other Backward Class family and that he has been "misleading" people by identifying himself as belonging to an OBC category.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delivering a brief speech on the third and last day of his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in the India state of Odisha, Rahul Gandhi said that PM Modi "was born in a family that belonged to the general caste".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-congresss-rahul-gandhi-promises-to-remove-50-reservation-cap-if-india-bloc-wins-polls-687295">India: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi promises to remove 50% reservation cap if INDIA bloc wins polls</a></p>

<p>"Modi ji has been misleading the people by saying that he is an OBC. He was born in a family of the Teli caste, which was included in the OBC list during the BJP government's tenure in Gujarat in 2000. Therefore, Modi ji is not an OBC by birth," emphasised the Congress MP.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi avoids shaking hands with OBCs, hugs billionaires: Gandhi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Congress leader further alleged that Prime Minister Modi avoids shaking hands with OBCs, however, he "hugs billionaires".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former Congress president, wearing a white t-shirt, resumed the yatra from the Old Bus Stand on Thursday (Feb 8) and walked towards Kissan Chowk in an open jeep.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He will not allow caste census to be conducted in his entire life because he was not born in OBC, he was born in general caste," said Gandhi.</p>

<p>He was accompanied by OPCC president Sarat Pattnayak and AICC leader Ajoy Kumar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra runs into rough weather in East India</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rahul-gandhis-bharat-jodo-nyay-yatra-runs-into-rough-weather-in-east-india-683644/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will be entering Chhattisgarh from neighbouring Odisha on Thursday (Feb 8).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This will be the first visit of Gandhi to Chhattisgarh after the November 2023 Assembly elections, in which his party was defeated. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The yatra, after a two-day break, started from Manipur on January 14 and is set to cross the Raigarh, Sakti and Korba districts on February 11.</p>

<p>On February 14, the yatra will travel to Jharkhand from Balrampur.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Launching a scathing attack on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday alleged that he was not born in an Other Backward Class family and that he has been "misleading" people by identifying himself as belonging to an OBC category.

Launching a scathing attack on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday alleged that he was not born in an Other Backward Class family and that he has been "misleading" people by identifying himself as belonging to an OBC category. Delivering a brief speech on the third and last day of his 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in the India state of Odisha, Rahul Gandhi said that PM Modi "was born in a family that belonged to the general caste". Also read: India: Congress’ Rahul Gandhi promises to remove 50% reservation cap if INDIA bloc wins polls "Modi ji has been misleading the people by saying that he is an OBC. He was born in a family of the Teli caste, which was included in the OBC list during the BJP government's tenure in Gujarat in 2000. Therefore, Modi ji is not an OBC by birth," emphasised the Congress MP. PM Modi avoids shaking hands with OBCs, hugs billionaires: Gandhi Congress leader further alleged that Prime Minister Modi avoids shaking hands with OBCs, however, he "hugs billionaires". The former Congress president, wearing a white t-shirt, resumed the yatra from the Old Bus Stand on Thursday (Feb 8) and walked towards Kissan Chowk in an open jeep. "He will not allow caste census to be conducted in his entire life because he was not born in OBC, he was born in general caste," said Gandhi. He was accompanied by OPCC president Sarat Pattnayak and AICC leader Ajoy Kumar. Watch: Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra runs into rough weather in East India The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will be entering Chhattisgarh from neighbouring Odisha on Thursday (Feb 8). This will be the first visit of Gandhi to Chhattisgarh after the November 2023 Assembly elections, in which his party was defeated. The yatra, after a two-day break, started from Manipur on January 14 and is set to cross the Raigarh, Sakti and Korba districts on February 11. On February 14, the yatra will travel to Jharkhand from Balrampur. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi not 'OBC' but 'general caste' by birth, alleges Rahul Gandhi

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 8) while bidding farewell to members retiring from the Rajya Sabha, lauded his predecessor Manmohan Singh's "immense contribution" to the House.</p>

<p>"I wish to remember Dr Manmohan Singh today, his contribution in the House, with his invaluable thoughts, both as a leader and in the opposition has been immense. For such a long time, the way he has guided this House and country, Dr Manmohan Singh will always be remembered for it," PM Modi said during his speech in the upper house.</p>

<p>"It doesn't matter who he was supporting, I believe that he was supporting our democracy," he said.</p>

<p>He then recalled how Singh had arrived in a wheelchair to cast his vote on the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023.</p>

<p>"Dr Manmohan Singh ji came to the parliament in a wheelchair. How conscious he is of his responsibilities, not only this, I was watching, whenever committee elections were held, he came to vote, the question is not to whom he came to give strength, I believe, to give strength to democracy," the Indian prime minister said in his speech.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-releases-black-paper-against-modi-government-688128">India: Congress releases 'black paper' against Modi government</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Kaala teeka'</strong></h2>

<p>During his speech, PM Modi also took a sarcastic jibe at the Congress party over the release of the 'Black Paper' which the grand old party claimed would highlight the failures of the ruling BJP government.</p>

<p>Thanking the Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge for coming out with the paper, the Indian prime minister dubbed it as "kaala teeka" (to ward off the evil eye) amid the good work being done by his government.</p>

<p>"When a child gets ready for some good occasion by wearing some nice clothes, then a family member says to go after applying a Kaala Teeka, to ward off an evil eye. Today, as the country is touching new heights of prosperity over the last ten years, an attempt has been made today to put a Kaala Teeka, so that no one can cast an evil eye on it. I thank Kharge Ji a lot for (bringing a Black Paper)," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>Modi also referred to black robes worn by opposition MPs in the House as a mark of protest and said, "We also saw a fashion parade in the Rajya Sabha when some members came in black clothes."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The retiring members of the Rajya Sabha will attend an event at Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar's residence in New Delhi on Thursday evening.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 8) while bidding farewell to members retiring from the Rajya Sabha, lauded his predecessor Manmohan Singh's "immense contribution" to the House.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 8) while bidding farewell to members retiring from the Rajya Sabha, lauded his predecessor Manmohan Singh's "immense contribution" to the House. "I wish to remember Dr Manmohan Singh today, his contribution in the House, with his invaluable thoughts, both as a leader and in the opposition has been immense. For such a long time, the way he has guided this House and country, Dr Manmohan Singh will always be remembered for it," PM Modi said during his speech in the upper house. "It doesn't matter who he was supporting, I believe that he was supporting our democracy," he said. He then recalled how Singh had arrived in a wheelchair to cast his vote on the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2023. "Dr Manmohan Singh ji came to the parliament in a wheelchair. How conscious he is of his responsibilities, not only this, I was watching, whenever committee elections were held, he came to vote, the question is not to whom he came to give strength, I believe, to give strength to democracy," the Indian prime minister said in his speech. Also read: India: Congress releases 'black paper' against Modi government 'Kaala teeka' During his speech, PM Modi also took a sarcastic jibe at the Congress party over the release of the 'Black Paper' which the grand old party claimed would highlight the failures of the ruling BJP government. Thanking the Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge for coming out with the paper, the Indian prime minister dubbed it as "kaala teeka" (to ward off the evil eye) amid the good work being done by his government. "When a child gets ready for some good occasion by wearing some nice clothes, then a family member says to go after applying a Kaala Teeka, to ward off an evil eye. Today, as the country is touching new heights of prosperity over the last ten years, an attempt has been made today to put a Kaala Teeka, so that no one can cast an evil eye on it. I thank Kharge Ji a lot for (bringing a Black Paper)," PM Modi said. Modi also referred to black robes worn by opposition MPs in the House as a mark of protest and said, "We also saw a fashion parade in the Rajya Sabha when some members came in black clothes." The retiring members of the Rajya Sabha will attend an event at Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar's residence in New Delhi on Thursday evening. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi lauds predecessor Manmohan Singh in Rajya Sabha during farewell of retiring members

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday outlined his government's vision for reducing dependence on fossil-based fuels and highlighted the achievements the country made under his administration in the energy domain.</p>

<p>"It is a matter of great pleasure for us that this event of India Energy Week is taking place in Goa which is always full of energy. Goa is known for its hospitality. Tourists coming here from all over the world are impressed by the beauty and culture of this place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Goa is a state which is touching new paradigms of development, so today when we have come together to talk about sensitivity towards the environment and sustainable future, then Goa is a perfect destination for this. All the foreign guests coming to this Summit will take lifetime memories of Goa with them" the Prime Minister said</p>

<p>Inaugurating the second edition of India Energy Week 2024, PM Modi asserted that India's solar installed capacity has risen by over 20 times over the decade. Blending of ethanol has risen from a mere 1.5 per cent to above 12 per cent.</p>

<p>India has already rolled out 20 per cent blended fuel, though, in a phased manner, in April 2023 and widespread availability is expected in days to come. By 2025, a full 20 per cent rollout is expected.</p>

<p>"India is focusing on building infrastructure at an unprecedented pace," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>"Amidst the increasing energy demand, India is also ensuring affordable energy in every corner of the country. India is a country where despite many global factors, the prices of petrol and diesel have come down in the last two years. Apart from this, India has achieved 100% electricity coverage. Electricity has been provided to crores of homes and due to such efforts, today India is progressing so much in the energy sector on the world stage. India is building a modern infrastructure of the 21st century, we are working on the infrastructure-building mission, in this financial year we are investing about Rs 10 lakh crore on infrastructure" the Prime Minister added.</p>

<p>Talking about India's energy demand, PM Modi asserted that it will double to about 38 million barrels by 2045.</p>

<p>"Experts across the world believe that India will soon become the third largest economy in the world. Energy sector is important in this growth story of India. India is already the third-largest energy consumer in the world. India is the third largest oil consumer and the third largest LPG consumer. We are the world's fourth largest importer of LNG, fourth largest refiner and fourth largest automobile market. Today, new records are being made in the sales of two-wheelers and four-wheelers in India. Demand for EVs is continuously increasing, it is also estimated that India's primary energy demand will double by 2045" the PM said.</p>

<p>Speaking about diversification of energy sources, the percentage of natural gas in the overall energy mix is being raised from 6 to 15 per cent. In the next 5 to 6 years, PM Modi said about USD 67 billion investment will be made.</p>

<p>As part of his government's waste-to-wealth management programme, as many as 5,000 compressed biogas plants are being worked upon, he said.</p>

<p>India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and consumer, is dependent on crude oil from various sources in the global market to meet its domestic demand.</p>

<p>"India's carbon emission share is just 4 per cent globally, but still we are improving on our energy mix for a sustainable future. India is emphasising the development of environmentally conscious energy sources to enhance our energy mix. Our goal is to achieve Net Zero Emission by 2070," he said.</p>

<p>In its latest intervention, PM Modi said his government would provide rooftop solar to one crore families.</p>

<p>The central government announced a slew of measures for the promotion of green growth and renewable energy while tabling the Interim Budget 2024-25. Through rooftop solarization, one crore households will be enabled to obtain up to 300 units of free electricity every month.</p>

<p>PM Modi also touched upon his government's Hydrogen Mission and said India will soon become a hub of hydrogen production and exports.</p>

<p>At COP26 held in 2021, India committed to an ambitious five-part "Panchamrit" pledge. They included reaching 500 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity, generating half of all energy requirements from renewables, to reducing emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030.</p>

<p>India as a whole also aims to reduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 45 per cent.Finally, India commits to net-zero emissions by 2070.</p>

<p>India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and consumer, is dependent on crude oil from various sources in the global market to meet its domestic demand.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday outlined his government's vision for reducing dependence on fossil-based fuels and highlighted the achievements the country made under his administration in the energy domain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday outlined his government's vision for reducing dependence on fossil-based fuels and highlighted the achievements the country made under his administration in the energy domain. "It is a matter of great pleasure for us that this event of India Energy Week is taking place in Goa which is always full of energy. Goa is known for its hospitality. Tourists coming here from all over the world are impressed by the beauty and culture of this place. Goa is a state which is touching new paradigms of development, so today when we have come together to talk about sensitivity towards the environment and sustainable future, then Goa is a perfect destination for this. All the foreign guests coming to this Summit will take lifetime memories of Goa with them" the Prime Minister said Inaugurating the second edition of India Energy Week 2024, PM Modi asserted that India's solar installed capacity has risen by over 20 times over the decade. Blending of ethanol has risen from a mere 1.5 per cent to above 12 per cent. India has already rolled out 20 per cent blended fuel, though, in a phased manner, in April 2023 and widespread availability is expected in days to come. By 2025, a full 20 per cent rollout is expected. "India is focusing on building infrastructure at an unprecedented pace," PM Modi said. "Amidst the increasing energy demand, India is also ensuring affordable energy in every corner of the country. India is a country where despite many global factors, the prices of petrol and diesel have come down in the last two years. Apart from this, India has achieved 100% electricity coverage. Electricity has been provided to crores of homes and due to such efforts, today India is progressing so much in the energy sector on the world stage. India is building a modern infrastructure of the 21st century, we are working on the infrastructure-building mission, in this financial year we are investing about Rs 10 lakh crore on infrastructure" the Prime Minister added. Talking about India's energy demand, PM Modi asserted that it will double to about 38 million barrels by 2045. "Experts across the world believe that India will soon become the third largest economy in the world. Energy sector is important in this growth story of India. India is already the third-largest energy consumer in the world. India is the third largest oil consumer and the third largest LPG consumer. We are the world's fourth largest importer of LNG, fourth largest refiner and fourth largest automobile market. Today, new records are being made in the sales of two-wheelers and four-wheelers in India. Demand for EVs is continuously increasing, it is also estimated that India's primary energy demand will double by 2045" the PM said. Speaking about diversification of energy sources, the percentage of natural gas in the overall energy mix is being raised from 6 to 15 per cent. In the next 5 to 6 years, PM Modi said about USD 67 billion investment will be made. As part of his government's waste-to-wealth management programme, as many as 5,000 compressed biogas plants are being worked upon, he said. India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and consumer, is dependent on crude oil from various sources in the global market to meet its domestic demand. "India's carbon emission share is just 4 per cent globally, but still we are improving on our energy mix for a sustainable future. India is emphasising the development of environmentally conscious energy sources to enhance our energy mix. Our goal is to achieve Net Zero Emission by 2070," he said. In its latest intervention, PM Modi said his government would provide rooftop solar to one crore families. The central government announced a slew of measures for the promotion of green growth and renewable energy while tabling the Interim Budget 2024-25. Through rooftop solarization, one crore households will be enabled to obtain up to 300 units of free electricity every month. PM Modi also touched upon his government's Hydrogen Mission and said India will soon become a hub of hydrogen production and exports. At COP26 held in 2021, India committed to an ambitious five-part "Panchamrit" pledge. They included reaching 500 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity, generating half of all energy requirements from renewables, to reducing emissions by 1 billion tonnes by 2030. India as a whole also aims to reduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 45 per cent.Finally, India commits to net-zero emissions by 2070. India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and consumer, is dependent on crude oil from various sources in the global market to meet its domestic demand.

India Energy Week: PM Modi draws focus on alternate fuels

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday (Feb 5) took a jibe at the opposition ahead of the upcoming general elections in the country saying that many in the opposition parties have “lost the courage” to contest polls.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Lost the courage’</strong></h2>

<p>“I see that many of you (opposition) have even lost the courage to contest elections. Some seats were changed last time too, I have heard that many people are looking to change their seats this time as well,” said the Indian PM during a speech in Lok Sabha, the lower house of the parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “I have also heard that many people now want to go to Rajya Sabha instead of Lok Sabha. They are looking for their paths by assessing the situation.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India PM Narendra Modi to address World Government Summit in UAE</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-pm-narendra-modi-to-address-world-government-summit-in-uae-687194/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>PM Modi also spoke about how the opposition has “failed to fulfill their responsibility as opposition” and added that India needs a “good opposition”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He went on to list some of the works that his government has done so far. “We built 4 crore (40 million) houses for the poor. For the urban poor, we built 80 lakh (eight million) pucca houses,” the Indian PM said, adding that it would have taken Congress 100 years to do this same work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Five generations would have passed by then,” said PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Family politics’ and cancel culture</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian PM said that the country needs a “strong and healthy” opposition but called out Congress for being stuck in ‘parivaarvad’ (family politics) which has tried to repeatedly launch a “failed product,” in an oblique&nbsp;reference&nbsp;to Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cancel-culture-to-370-seats-key-takeaways-from-pm-modis-parliament-speech-687202">'Cancel culture to 370+ seats': Key takeaways from PM Modi's Parliament speech</a></strong></p>

<p>During his address, PM Modi spoke about how Congress is promoting ‘cancel culture’ in the Parliament and listed government schemes and projects that the opposition had tried to “cancel”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Modi’s guarantee’&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>“On the basis of the experience of 10 years of governance, looking at today’s strong economy and the rapid speed with which India is progressing today, I can confidently say that in our third term, India will be the third largest economic power,” said the Indian PM, while adding that this is “Modi’s guarantee”.</p>

<p>He also confidently said that his government will secure by winning the upcoming elections and said his government will make “very big decisions”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The third term of our government is not very far now. Only 100-125 days remain to go...I don’t go into numbers but I can see the mood of the country,” said the Indian PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It will make the NDA cross 400 and BJP will definitely get 370 seats...The third term will be about taking very big decisions,” PM Modi side while alluding to the Article 370 that was scrapped by his government in a major decision.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-polls-panel-issues-strict-advisory-against-use-of-children-in-any-election-related-activities-687180">&nbsp;India’s election commission issues strict advisory against use of children in any election-related activities</a></strong></p>

<p>The world’s largest democracy, may hold its general elections between April and May 2024 to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha, where PM Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will aim for a third consecutive victory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the upcoming elections, the BJP-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance) will be pitted against the INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance), a group of 28 opposition parties including the Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday (Feb 5) took a jibe at the opposition ahead of the upcoming general elections in the country saying that many in the opposition parties have “lost the courage” to contest polls.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday (Feb 5) took a jibe at the opposition ahead of the upcoming general elections in the country saying that many in the opposition parties have “lost the courage” to contest polls. ‘Lost the courage’ “I see that many of you (opposition) have even lost the courage to contest elections. Some seats were changed last time too, I have heard that many people are looking to change their seats this time as well,” said the Indian PM during a speech in Lok Sabha, the lower house of the parliament. He added, “I have also heard that many people now want to go to Rajya Sabha instead of Lok Sabha. They are looking for their paths by assessing the situation.” WATCH | India PM Narendra Modi to address World Government Summit in UAE PM Modi also spoke about how the opposition has “failed to fulfill their responsibility as opposition” and added that India needs a “good opposition”. He went on to list some of the works that his government has done so far. “We built 4 crore (40 million) houses for the poor. For the urban poor, we built 80 lakh (eight million) pucca houses,” the Indian PM said, adding that it would have taken Congress 100 years to do this same work. “Five generations would have passed by then,” said PM Modi. ‘Family politics’ and cancel culture The Indian PM said that the country needs a “strong and healthy” opposition but called out Congress for being stuck in ‘parivaarvad’ (family politics) which has tried to repeatedly launch a “failed product,” in an oblique reference to Rahul Gandhi. ALSO READ | 'Cancel culture to 370+ seats': Key takeaways from PM Modi's Parliament speech During his address, PM Modi spoke about how Congress is promoting ‘cancel culture’ in the Parliament and listed government schemes and projects that the opposition had tried to “cancel”. ‘Modi’s guarantee’ “On the basis of the experience of 10 years of governance, looking at today’s strong economy and the rapid speed with which India is progressing today, I can confidently say that in our third term, India will be the third largest economic power,” said the Indian PM, while adding that this is “Modi’s guarantee”. He also confidently said that his government will secure by winning the upcoming elections and said his government will make “very big decisions”. “The third term of our government is not very far now. Only 100-125 days remain to go...I don’t go into numbers but I can see the mood of the country,” said the Indian PM. “It will make the NDA cross 400 and BJP will definitely get 370 seats...The third term will be about taking very big decisions,” PM Modi side while alluding to the Article 370 that was scrapped by his government in a major decision. ALSO READ | India’s election commission issues strict advisory against use of children in any election-related activities The world’s largest democracy, may hold its general elections between April and May 2024 to elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha, where PM Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will aim for a third consecutive victory. In the upcoming elections, the BJP-led NDA (National Democratic Alliance) will be pitted against the INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance), a group of 28 opposition parties including the Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Many have lost courage to fight elections’: PM Modi takes a jibe at opposition ahead of polls

<p><strong>Lal Krishna Advani Bharat Ratna:</strong> Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India. The announcement was made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself. Advani has been a key leading figure in the BJP for decades and has served as home minister of India. He has also helmed several other ministries and was deputy prime minister under then-prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in early 2000s.</p>

<p>Hours after Prime Minister Modi, once a disciple of Advani, made the announcement, the 96-year-old veteran expressed gratitude and said he was humbled by the honour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Narendra Modi (first from right) with LK Advani (third from right) during Gujarat leg of Ram Rath Yatra | File" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-01-22T222951.231.png" /></p>

<p><em>Narendra Modi (first from right) with LK Advani (third from right) during Gujarat leg of Ram Rath Yatra in September 1990 | File</em></p>

<p>"With utmost humility and gratitude, I accept the 'Bharat Ratna' that has been conferred on me today. It is not only an honour for me as a person, but also for the ideals and principles that I have strobe to serve throughout my life to the best of my ability...," said Advani.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am very happy to share that Shri LK Advani Ji will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. I also spoke to him and congratulated him on being conferred this honour. One of the most respected statesmen of our times, his contribution to the development of India is monumental. His is a… <a href="https://t.co/Ya78qjJbPK">pic.twitter.com/Ya78qjJbPK</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1753660421809066495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</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>

<p>While making the announcement PM Modi said, "Advani Ji’s decades-long service in public life has been marked by an unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, setting an exemplary standard in political ethics. He has made unparalleled efforts towards furthering national unity and cultural resurgence. The conferring of the Bharat Ratna on him is a very emotional moment for me. I will always consider it my privilege that I got countless opportunities to interact with him and learn from him."</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Lal Krishna Advani?</strong></h2>

<p>Lal Krishna Advani was born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi which is now in present-day Pakistan. After partition, his family migrated to India. Advani joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in&nbsp;1941, when he was just 14 years old.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cast-from-the-past-rath-yatra-to-ram-mandir-between-advani-of-1990-and-modi-of-2024-682579">Cast From The Past | Rath Yatra to Ram Mandir: Between Advani of 1990 and Modi of 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>In 1951, just four years after India gained&nbsp;independence, LK Advani joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. The 'Jana Sangh' as it is commonly called, was political precursor of the BJP. Bharatiya Jana Sangh was founded by Syama Prasad Mookerjee, who later became an iconic BJP leader.</p>

<p>Advani began consolidating his position in India's national-level politics in 1970 when he became a Rajya Sabha - upper house of the Parliament - member for the first time in 1970. He then&nbsp;became the leader of the house in&nbsp;1977.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India: Vijay announces new party 'Tamilaga Vetri Kazhgam'</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-vijay-announces-new-party-tamilaga-vetri-kazhgam-686464/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Advani was a member of the house&nbsp;till 1989, serving four terms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was one of the founding members of the BJP. Advani&nbsp;won a Lok Sabha - lower house of Parliament - seat for the first time in 1989.</p>

<p>Advani has been honoured with India's top civilian award&nbsp;before as well. In 2015, he was conferred Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian honour of the country.</p>


Lal Krishna Advani Bharat Ratna: Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India.

Lal Krishna Advani Bharat Ratna: Veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India. The announcement was made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself. Advani has been a key leading figure in the BJP for decades and has served as home minister of India. He has also helmed several other ministries and was deputy prime minister under then-prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in early 2000s. Hours after Prime Minister Modi, once a disciple of Advani, made the announcement, the 96-year-old veteran expressed gratitude and said he was humbled by the honour. Narendra Modi (first from right) with LK Advani (third from right) during Gujarat leg of Ram Rath Yatra in September 1990 | File "With utmost humility and gratitude, I accept the 'Bharat Ratna' that has been conferred on me today. It is not only an honour for me as a person, but also for the ideals and principles that I have strobe to serve throughout my life to the best of my ability...," said Advani. I am very happy to share that Shri LK Advani Ji will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. I also spoke to him and congratulated him on being conferred this honour. One of the most respected statesmen of our times, his contribution to the development of India is monumental. His is a… pic.twitter.com/Ya78qjJbPK — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 3, 2024 × While making the announcement PM Modi said, "Advani Ji’s decades-long service in public life has been marked by an unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, setting an exemplary standard in political ethics. He has made unparalleled efforts towards furthering national unity and cultural resurgence. The conferring of the Bharat Ratna on him is a very emotional moment for me. I will always consider it my privilege that I got countless opportunities to interact with him and learn from him." Who is Lal Krishna Advani? Lal Krishna Advani was born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi which is now in present-day Pakistan. After partition, his family migrated to India. Advani joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1941, when he was just 14 years old. Also Read | Cast From The Past | Rath Yatra to Ram Mandir: Between Advani of 1990 and Modi of 2024 In 1951, just four years after India gained independence, LK Advani joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. The 'Jana Sangh' as it is commonly called, was political precursor of the BJP. Bharatiya Jana Sangh was founded by Syama Prasad Mookerjee, who later became an iconic BJP leader. Advani began consolidating his position in India's national-level politics in 1970 when he became a Rajya Sabha - upper house of the Parliament - member for the first time in 1970. He then became the leader of the house in 1977. Watch | India: Vijay announces new party 'Tamilaga Vetri Kazhgam' × Advani was a member of the house till 1989, serving four terms. He was one of the founding members of the BJP. Advani won a Lok Sabha - lower house of Parliament - seat for the first time in 1989. Advani has been honoured with India's top civilian award before as well. In 2015, he was conferred Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian honour of the country.

'Honour for my principles': LK Advani reacts as PM Modi announces Bharat Ratna honour

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidS4YPz5VXzllB" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 1) reacted to the interim Budget 2024-2025 presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. "This interim Budget is inclusive and innovative. It has confidence in continuity. It will empower all 4 pillars of Viksit Bharat- Yuva, Garib, Mahila and Kisan. This budget gives the guarantee of making India a developed nation by 2047," Prime Minister Modi said.</p>

<p>"This budget has a reflection of the young aspirations of a young India. Two important decisions were made within the Budget. For research and innovation, a fund of Rs 1 Lakh Crore has been announced...," he added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Modi says, " This Budget stresses on empowerment of the poor and the middle class and creating of new employment opportunities for them. It has been announced to construct 2 crore more houses for the poor. We aim to have 3 crore 'Lakhpati Didis' now. ASHA and Aganwadi workers… <a href="https://t.co/3FEw5iFB8G">pic.twitter.com/3FEw5iFB8G</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1752964415157313905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</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>

<p>Modi further said that the income tax remission scheme announced in the budget will provide relief to 10 million (1 crore people) from the middle class. "In this budget, important decisions have been taken for the farmers," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>FM Sitharaman presents interim Budget 2024-25</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier on Thursday, Finance Minister Sitharaman presented the interim Budget for the financial year 2024-2025. Known for giving long and detailed budget speeches, Sitharaman's speech for this budget was the shortest, lasting&nbsp;a total of 57 minutes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-budget-2024-250-million-people-came-out-of-poverty-in-the-last-10-years-fm-sitharaman-685845">250 million people came out of poverty in the last 10 years: FM Sitharaman</a></strong></p>

<p>"The Indian economy has witnessed a profound positive transformation in the last ten years. The people of India are looking ahead to the future with hope and optimism," Sitharaman said and emphasised the continuity of the Modi government's commitment to the welfare of citizens.</p>

<p>She acknowledged the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic but noted that India successfully overcame them, continuing its stride towards building a self-reliant (Atmanirbhar) country.</p>

<h2><strong>Key takeaways</strong></h2>

<p>Some of <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-interim-budget-key-takeaways-from-nirmala-sitharamans-budget-speech-685817">the key takeaways from Sitharaman's budget </a></strong>speech include&nbsp;no change in the taxation scheme, both in direct and indirect brackets; revised estimate for fiscal deficit being 5.8 per cent of GDP; various schemes under maternal and child health care to be brought under one comprehensive programme and a scheme to help deserving sections of the middle class to buy or build their own houses.</p>

<p>"The exemplary track record of governance, development and performance, effective delivery, and ‘Jan Kalyan’ has given the Government trust, confidence and blessings of the people to realize, whatever it takes, the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’ with good intentions, true dedication and hard work in the coming years and decades," Sitharaman said towards the end of her speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 1) reacted to the interim Budget 2024-2025 presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. "This interim Budget is inclusive and innovative.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Feb 1) reacted to the interim Budget 2024-2025 presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. "This interim Budget is inclusive and innovative. It has confidence in continuity. It will empower all 4 pillars of Viksit Bharat- Yuva, Garib, Mahila and Kisan. This budget gives the guarantee of making India a developed nation by 2047," Prime Minister Modi said. "This budget has a reflection of the young aspirations of a young India. Two important decisions were made within the Budget. For research and innovation, a fund of Rs 1 Lakh Crore has been announced...," he added. PM Modi says, " This Budget stresses on empowerment of the poor and the middle class and creating of new employment opportunities for them. It has been announced to construct 2 crore more houses for the poor. We aim to have 3 crore 'Lakhpati Didis' now. ASHA and Aganwadi workers… pic.twitter.com/3FEw5iFB8G — ANI (@ANI) February 1, 2024 × Modi further said that the income tax remission scheme announced in the budget will provide relief to 10 million (1 crore people) from the middle class. "In this budget, important decisions have been taken for the farmers," he added. FM Sitharaman presents interim Budget 2024-25 Earlier on Thursday, Finance Minister Sitharaman presented the interim Budget for the financial year 2024-2025. Known for giving long and detailed budget speeches, Sitharaman's speech for this budget was the shortest, lasting a total of 57 minutes. Also read | 250 million people came out of poverty in the last 10 years: FM Sitharaman "The Indian economy has witnessed a profound positive transformation in the last ten years. The people of India are looking ahead to the future with hope and optimism," Sitharaman said and emphasised the continuity of the Modi government's commitment to the welfare of citizens. She acknowledged the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic but noted that India successfully overcame them, continuing its stride towards building a self-reliant (Atmanirbhar) country. Key takeaways Some of the key takeaways from Sitharaman's budget speech include no change in the taxation scheme, both in direct and indirect brackets; revised estimate for fiscal deficit being 5.8 per cent of GDP; various schemes under maternal and child health care to be brought under one comprehensive programme and a scheme to help deserving sections of the middle class to buy or build their own houses. "The exemplary track record of governance, development and performance, effective delivery, and ‘Jan Kalyan’ has given the Government trust, confidence and blessings of the people to realize, whatever it takes, the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’ with good intentions, true dedication and hard work in the coming years and decades," Sitharaman said towards the end of her speech.

India Budget 2024: Budget is 'inclusive and innovative,' says PM Modi

<p>Before the beginning of the Budget Session in the Indian Parliament on Wednesday (Jan 31), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the 'unruly MPs' and asked them to introspect.</p>

<p>Speaking against democratic disruptions in the Parliament, PM Modi said that no one will remember those who created a ruckus in the Parliament.</p>

<p>The prime minister, referring to the women's reservation bill which was passed in the new Parliament bill, said, "At the end of the first session that was convened in this new Parliament building, the Parliament took a graceful decision - Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. After that, on January 26 we saw how the country experienced the capability of Nari Shakti, its valour, the strength of its resolve."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-an-interim-budget-how-is-it-different-from-a-regular-budget-685321">Budget 2024: What is an interim budget? How is it different from a regular budget?</a></p>

<p>"Today, when the budget session begins, President Drouapdi Murmu's guidance and tomorrow Nirmala Sitharaman when present the interim budget - in a way this is a festival of the Nari Shakti (women empowerment)," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi calls Opposition 'habitual offenders' of democracy</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing the reporters, PM Narendra Modi took a jibe at MPs who faced accusations of disrupting the proceedings in the parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last 10 years, MPs did what suited them in Parliament. But I must say that those who are 'habitual offenders', those who have the habit of doing 'cheerharan' of democracy should introspect at the last session. They can even ask the people of their constituency whether the people remember them for that," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India Budget 2024: President Murmu to address both houses as budget session set to begin</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-budget-2024-president-murmu-to-address-both-houses-as-budget-session-set-to-begin-685327/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"I hope the MPs who are in the habit of ripping apart democratic values will self-introspect on what they did in their term as members of Parliament. Those who contributed positively to the Parliament will be remembered by all. But those members who caused disruptions will hardly be remembered. This budget session is an opportunity for repentance and to leave positive footprints. I urge all the MPs not to miss this opportunity and perform their best," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are going to follow the tradition of presenting a full budget after the new government is formed," said the prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This time, Finance Minister of the country, Nirmala Sitharaman will present the budget with 'disha-nirdeshak baatein'. I am of the firm belief that the country is going ahead by crossing new heights of progress every day. All-round and inclusive development is taking place. This journey will continue with the blessings of people," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Before the beginning of the Budget Session in the Indian Parliament on Wednesday (Jan 31), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the 'unruly MPs' and asked them to introspect.

Before the beginning of the Budget Session in the Indian Parliament on Wednesday (Jan 31), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the 'unruly MPs' and asked them to introspect. Speaking against democratic disruptions in the Parliament, PM Modi said that no one will remember those who created a ruckus in the Parliament. The prime minister, referring to the women's reservation bill which was passed in the new Parliament bill, said, "At the end of the first session that was convened in this new Parliament building, the Parliament took a graceful decision - Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. After that, on January 26 we saw how the country experienced the capability of Nari Shakti, its valour, the strength of its resolve." Also read: Budget 2024: What is an interim budget? How is it different from a regular budget? "Today, when the budget session begins, President Drouapdi Murmu's guidance and tomorrow Nirmala Sitharaman when present the interim budget - in a way this is a festival of the Nari Shakti (women empowerment)," he added. PM Modi calls Opposition 'habitual offenders' of democracy Addressing the reporters, PM Narendra Modi took a jibe at MPs who faced accusations of disrupting the proceedings in the parliament. "In the last 10 years, MPs did what suited them in Parliament. But I must say that those who are 'habitual offenders', those who have the habit of doing 'cheerharan' of democracy should introspect at the last session. They can even ask the people of their constituency whether the people remember them for that," he said. Watch: India Budget 2024: President Murmu to address both houses as budget session set to begin "I hope the MPs who are in the habit of ripping apart democratic values will self-introspect on what they did in their term as members of Parliament. Those who contributed positively to the Parliament will be remembered by all. But those members who caused disruptions will hardly be remembered. This budget session is an opportunity for repentance and to leave positive footprints. I urge all the MPs not to miss this opportunity and perform their best," PM Modi said. "We are going to follow the tradition of presenting a full budget after the new government is formed," said the prime minister. "This time, Finance Minister of the country, Nirmala Sitharaman will present the budget with 'disha-nirdeshak baatein'. I am of the firm belief that the country is going ahead by crossing new heights of progress every day. All-round and inclusive development is taking place. This journey will continue with the blessings of people," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Budget 2024: PM Modi hails 'Naari Shakti', calls out Opposition's 'unruly' behaviour

narendra-modi-1

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

narendra modi-1