<p>Leader of Maldives Jumhooree Party (JP), Qasim Ibrahim has appealed to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to formally apologise to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the citizens of the country.</p>

<p>This comes as the main opposition of Maldives, MDP, which has a majority in the Maldivian Parliament, said that it has been planning to submit a motion for the impeachment of the president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This decision was followed by clashes which broke out between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers in the House following differences over the approval of four members of his cabinet.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="Maldives government files case over rules changes simplifying opposition’s impeachment bid">Maldives government files case over rules changes simplifying opposition’s impeachment bid</a></p>

<p>"Regarding any country, especially a neighbouring one, we shouldn't speak in a way that affects the relationship. We have an obligation to our state that must be considered. President Solih did consider this obligation and issued a Presidential Decree banning the 'India Out'&nbsp;campaign. Now, Yameen (former president Abdulla Yameen) is questioning why Muizzu, who participated with him in the India Out Campaign, has not nullified the Presidential Decree," Ibrahim said, as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The decree should not be nullified, as it would only result in a loss to the nation. That cannot be done. I would tell Muizzu that it shouldn't be done. Also, I call on President Muizzu to formally apologise to the Indian government and Prime Minister Modi regarding his remarks after the China trip," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Maldives' decree over 'India Out' campaign</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, last year, a decree was signed by the then-Maldives President Ibrahim Solih which stated that the opposition's 'India Out' campaign is a "threat to national security".&nbsp;</p>

<p>This permits security agencies to pull down campaign banners and provide constitutional cover for taking action against opposition parties.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar speaks on Maldives' 'India out' campaign</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-foreign-minister-s-jaishankar-speaks-on-maldives-india-out-campaign-685210/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The opposition, headed by former president Abdulla Yameen of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), had spearheaded an 'India Out' campaign last year, propagating that the stationing of the Indian military officers in the Indian Ocean island nation is a violation of the sovereignty of Maldives, a claim which has not been proven.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The implicit target of the campaign was then-Maldivian President Solih and the Maldivian Democratic Party, who were seen as being close to India.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Leader of Maldives Jumhooree Party (JP), Qasim Ibrahim has appealed to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to formally apologise to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the citizens of the country.

Leader of Maldives Jumhooree Party (JP), Qasim Ibrahim has appealed to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to formally apologise to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the citizens of the country. This comes as the main opposition of Maldives, MDP, which has a majority in the Maldivian Parliament, said that it has been planning to submit a motion for the impeachment of the president. This decision was followed by clashes which broke out between pro-government MPs and opposition lawmakers in the House following differences over the approval of four members of his cabinet. Also read: Maldives government files case over rules changes simplifying opposition’s impeachment bid "Regarding any country, especially a neighbouring one, we shouldn't speak in a way that affects the relationship. We have an obligation to our state that must be considered. President Solih did consider this obligation and issued a Presidential Decree banning the 'India Out' campaign. Now, Yameen (former president Abdulla Yameen) is questioning why Muizzu, who participated with him in the India Out Campaign, has not nullified the Presidential Decree," Ibrahim said, as reported by news agency ANI. "The decree should not be nullified, as it would only result in a loss to the nation. That cannot be done. I would tell Muizzu that it shouldn't be done. Also, I call on President Muizzu to formally apologise to the Indian government and Prime Minister Modi regarding his remarks after the China trip," he said. Maldives' decree over 'India Out' campaign Meanwhile, last year, a decree was signed by the then-Maldives President Ibrahim Solih which stated that the opposition's 'India Out' campaign is a "threat to national security". This permits security agencies to pull down campaign banners and provide constitutional cover for taking action against opposition parties. Watch: Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar speaks on Maldives' 'India out' campaign The opposition, headed by former president Abdulla Yameen of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), had spearheaded an 'India Out' campaign last year, propagating that the stationing of the Indian military officers in the Indian Ocean island nation is a violation of the sovereignty of Maldives, a claim which has not been proven. The implicit target of the campaign was then-Maldivian President Solih and the Maldivian Democratic Party, who were seen as being close to India. (With inputs from agencies)

'Formally apologise to Indian PM Modi': Opposition asks Maldives President Muizzu

<p>Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday in a veiled attack on Bihar Chief Minister Kumar stated that the latter walked out of the INDIA bloc in the wake of the central probe agencies serving notice to opposition leaders. Continuing his attack, Kharge said, "If such cowardly people remain (in politics), how will the constitution and democracy survive?</p>

<p>Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said this while addressing the Workers' Convention in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha.</p>

<p>"They are giving (ED) notice to each and everyone, to scare them, to threaten them; if they do not leave their friendship, then we will see, out of fear, that someone is leaving their friendship, someone is leaving their party, someone is leaving their alliance. If such cowardly people remain, then will this country survive, will this constitution survive, and will this democracy survive? That is why this is your last chance to give your vote; after this, there will be no voting," Kharge said.</p>

<p>Kharge went ahead to warn the people of the country that this year will be the last opportunity for them to save democracy.</p>

<p>The Congress chief claimed that PM Modi will declare a dictatorship after this year's general elections.</p>

<p>"If Modi comes to power after the Lok Sabha polls, there will be dictatorship, no democracy and no elections," he said.</p>

<p>He further asserted that the 2024 general elections will be the last chance for the people of the country to vote.</p>

<p>Earlier on Sunday, the Congress chief launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party, asserting that the BJP made every effort to stop the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Assam,&nbsp;adding that "we are not afraid of them".</p>

<p>Addressing the Workers Convention in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Kharge said that Rahul Gandhi had taken out 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, but such an incident did not happen anywhere, as has happened in BJP-ruled Assam.</p>

<p>"Ever since our 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' started, the BJP has made every effort to stop and scare it. 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' was stopped in Assam; stones were thrown at vehicles; and posters were torn. But we are not afraid," Kharge said, addressing the Workers Convention in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.</p>


Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday in a veiled attack on Bihar Chief Minister Kumar stated that the latter walked out of the INDIA bloc in the wake of the central probe agencies serving notice to opposition leaders.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday in a veiled attack on Bihar Chief Minister Kumar stated that the latter walked out of the INDIA bloc in the wake of the central probe agencies serving notice to opposition leaders. Continuing his attack, Kharge said, "If such cowardly people remain (in politics), how will the constitution and democracy survive? Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said this while addressing the Workers' Convention in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha. "They are giving (ED) notice to each and everyone, to scare them, to threaten them; if they do not leave their friendship, then we will see, out of fear, that someone is leaving their friendship, someone is leaving their party, someone is leaving their alliance. If such cowardly people remain, then will this country survive, will this constitution survive, and will this democracy survive? That is why this is your last chance to give your vote; after this, there will be no voting," Kharge said. Kharge went ahead to warn the people of the country that this year will be the last opportunity for them to save democracy. The Congress chief claimed that PM Modi will declare a dictatorship after this year's general elections. "If Modi comes to power after the Lok Sabha polls, there will be dictatorship, no democracy and no elections," he said. He further asserted that the 2024 general elections will be the last chance for the people of the country to vote. Earlier on Sunday, the Congress chief launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party, asserting that the BJP made every effort to stop the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' in Assam, adding that "we are not afraid of them". Addressing the Workers Convention in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Kharge said that Rahul Gandhi had taken out 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, but such an incident did not happen anywhere, as has happened in BJP-ruled Assam. "Ever since our 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' started, the BJP has made every effort to stop and scare it. 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' was stopped in Assam; stones were thrown at vehicles; and posters were torn. But we are not afraid," Kharge said, addressing the Workers Convention in Dehradun, Uttarakhand.

If Modi comes to power 'there will be dictatorship,' says Congress chief Kharge

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (Jan 26) announced the goal of&nbsp;welcoming 30,000 Indian students by 2030 in his country. Terming it an "ambitious&nbsp;target", Macron said he was "determined" to make it happen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron, who is currently in India as chief guest at the Republic Day parade, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to outline how the plan would boost academic ties between the two historic allies.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are launching new pathways in order to learn French in public schools with the initiative "French for All, French for a Better Future". We are developing the network of Alliances françaises, with new centres to learn French," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are creating international classes which will allow students, who do not necessarily speak French, to join our universities. Last, but not least, we will facilitate the visa process for any former Indian students who studied in France," it added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">30,000 Indian students in France in 2030.<br />
<br />
It’s a very ambitious target, but I am determined to make it happen.<br />
<br />
Here’s how: <a href="https://t.co/QDpOl4ujWb">pic.twitter.com/QDpOl4ujWb</a></p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1750705399550902544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The French president highlighted that the visa process would also be streamlined for students who had previously studied in the European nation, making it easier for them to return.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India and France have so much to do together, now and in the future. We will achieve this with you, our young people, in exchange and cooperation, in trust, in friendship!" he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-president-emmanuel-macron-reaches-india-as-chief-guest-for-75th-republic-day-683464"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron reaches India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Macron lands in India</strong></h2>

<p>Macron arrived in India on Thursday (Jan 25) afternoon and landed in the northern Indian city of Jaipur where he, alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took part in a roadshow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron, the sixth French leader to attend India's Republic Day parade, has been a trusted ally of New Delhi. After India extended the invitation for the parade, following the alleged refusal by the US president, Macron immediately accepted the request.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cast-from-the-past-indians-who-died-protecting-france-615813">Cast From The Past: Indians who died protecting France during first World War</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>India-France ties: Defence remains top focus</strong></h2>

<p>President Macron’s visit is also aimed at strengthening the France-India strategic partnership that the two leaders signed up in Paris on July 14 through the Horizon 2047 Roadmap.</p>

<p>India had ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in 2015 and&nbsp;the Indian Air Force received the last of these fighter aircraft in December 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In July 2023, during PM Modi's Paris visit, the two countries signed up to "extend their ground-breaking defence cooperation in advanced aeronautical technologies by supporting the joint development of a combat aircraft engine".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two countries are also key partners in&nbsp;the Indo-Pacific region, where they remain "open to inviting strategic partner countries in the region to participate in Indo-French [naval] exercises".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (Jan 26) announced the goal of welcoming 30,000 Indian students by 2030 in his country. Terming it an "ambitious target", Macron said he was "determined" to make it happen.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (Jan 26) announced the goal of welcoming 30,000 Indian students by 2030 in his country. Terming it an "ambitious target", Macron said he was "determined" to make it happen. Macron, who is currently in India as chief guest at the Republic Day parade, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to outline how the plan would boost academic ties between the two historic allies. "We are launching new pathways in order to learn French in public schools with the initiative "French for All, French for a Better Future". We are developing the network of Alliances françaises, with new centres to learn French," read the statement. "We are creating international classes which will allow students, who do not necessarily speak French, to join our universities. Last, but not least, we will facilitate the visa process for any former Indian students who studied in France," it added. 30,000 Indian students in France in 2030. It’s a very ambitious target, but I am determined to make it happen. Here’s how: pic.twitter.com/QDpOl4ujWb — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2024 × The French president highlighted that the visa process would also be streamlined for students who had previously studied in the European nation, making it easier for them to return. "India and France have so much to do together, now and in the future. We will achieve this with you, our young people, in exchange and cooperation, in trust, in friendship!" he added. Watch | French President Emmanuel Macron reaches India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day × Macron lands in India Macron arrived in India on Thursday (Jan 25) afternoon and landed in the northern Indian city of Jaipur where he, alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took part in a roadshow. Macron, the sixth French leader to attend India's Republic Day parade, has been a trusted ally of New Delhi. After India extended the invitation for the parade, following the alleged refusal by the US president, Macron immediately accepted the request. Also read | Cast From The Past: Indians who died protecting France during first World War India-France ties: Defence remains top focus President Macron’s visit is also aimed at strengthening the France-India strategic partnership that the two leaders signed up in Paris on July 14 through the Horizon 2047 Roadmap. India had ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in 2015 and the Indian Air Force received the last of these fighter aircraft in December 2022. In July 2023, during PM Modi's Paris visit, the two countries signed up to "extend their ground-breaking defence cooperation in advanced aeronautical technologies by supporting the joint development of a combat aircraft engine". The two countries are also key partners in the Indo-Pacific region, where they remain "open to inviting strategic partner countries in the region to participate in Indo-French [naval] exercises". (With inputs from agencies)

France will welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, President Macron announces

<p lang="en-US">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, ahead of India's 75th Republic Day.<br />
<br />
Macron, who is on a two-day official visit to India, will be the chief guest at the 75th Republic Day celebrations to be held in New Delhi on Friday.<br />
<br />
During the roadshow, citizens in large numbers gathered on the streets of the pink city to welcome Macron and Modi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | People in large numbers welcome PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron during their roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan <a href="https://t.co/JyhT8GgMhl">pic.twitter.com/JyhT8GgMhl</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750506873546322330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, PM Modi explained how the UPI digital payments system has been implemented in the cities to French President Macron.</p>

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<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 explains the UPI digital payments system to French President Emmanuel Macron during their visit to Jaipur, Rajasthan <a href="https://t.co/98SbDN8D3e">pic.twitter.com/98SbDN8D3e</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750511992698515951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Macron also visited Hawa Mahal in Jaipur along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in between the roadshow. During his India visit, Macron first met Modi at Jantar Mantar - the famous solar observatory established by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="et"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron visit Hawa Mahal in Jaipur <a href="https://t.co/SLnupFX0yT">pic.twitter.com/SLnupFX0yT</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750510356232077335?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron at Jantar Mantar, the famous solar observatory, in Rajasthan's Jaipur <a href="https://t.co/vdslirAiJd">pic.twitter.com/vdslirAiJd</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750502717443977244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>UNESCO listed Jantar Mantar as a World Heritage Site in July 2010.&nbsp;It consists of a set of eighteen instruments and is the world's biggest stone observatory.</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Indian PM Modi gifted&nbsp;a replica of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir to French President Emmanuel Macron.&nbsp;PM Modi and French President Macron also relished masala tea from Jaipur’s Sahu chaiwala and made the payment via UPI.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian PM Narendra Modi gifts a replica of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir to French President Emmanuel Macron in Jaipur.<br />
<br />
Macron is the chief guest at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDayParade?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDayParade</a> in New Delhi on January 26.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/9h1dQLf6nj">pic.twitter.com/9h1dQLf6nj</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1750525866503987504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/macron-in-india-focus-on-defence-deals-with-indo-french-trust-based-cooperation-683473">Macron lands in India with focus on defence deals and 'trust-based cooperation'</a></p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Macron's India visit</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Macron&nbsp;arrived at Jaipur's international airport earlier in the day. He was received by Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma.<br />
<br />
The French president then visited the Amer Fort&nbsp;where he interacted with artists, appreciated Rajasthani painting art and interacted with school students who had gathered to welcome him.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | French President Emmanuel Macron visits Amber Fort in Rajasthan's Jaipur during his two-day state visit to India<br />
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EAM Dr S Jaishankar and Rajasthan Deputy CM Diya Kumari also present <a href="https://t.co/giB38FZRzy">pic.twitter.com/giB38FZRzy</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750466175530840506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, Indian PM Modi, after visiting Jantar Mantar, wrote on X, "Visited Jantar Mantar in Jaipur with President @EmmanuelMacron. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to India's rich heritage in astronomy. It also symbolises the blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, a shared value that both India and France appreciate."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Visited Jantar Mantar in Jaipur with President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to India's rich heritage in astronomy. It also symbolises the blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, a shared value that both India and France appreciate. <a href="https://t.co/2d0Se6bg3h">pic.twitter.com/2d0Se6bg3h</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1750560110466777314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In another tweet, PM Modi said, "It is a matter of great pride that he (Macron) will be taking part in our Republic Day celebrations".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome to India, my friend President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>.<br />
<br />
I am happy that President Macron begins his India visit from Jaipur in Rajasthan, a land with rich culture, heritage and talented people. It is a matter of great pride that he will be taking part in our Republic Day… <a href="https://t.co/Q7JGuZpJJP">pic.twitter.com/Q7JGuZpJJP</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1750559852722618400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Macron's visit to India comes on the heels of expanded bilateral cooperation between New Delhi and Paris in major areas, including defence.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron reaches India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day</strong></p>

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<p>In a statement, the French embassy said that the talks between Modi and Macron will cover defence cooperation, collaboration in the vast Indo-Pacific region and the course on responses to challenges such as terrorism, climate crisis, biodiversity loss, poverty eradication, strengthening business ties, and cross-investments.<br />
<br />
As part of expanded defence cooperation, India and France also plan to build three more Scorpene-class submarines with technology from France.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, ahead of India's 75th Republic Day. Macron, who is on a two-day official visit to India, will be the chief guest at the 75th Republic Day celebrations to be held in New Delhi on Friday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron held a roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan, ahead of India's 75th Republic Day. Macron, who is on a two-day official visit to India, will be the chief guest at the 75th Republic Day celebrations to be held in New Delhi on Friday. During the roadshow, citizens in large numbers gathered on the streets of the pink city to welcome Macron and Modi. #WATCH | People in large numbers welcome PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron during their roadshow in Jaipur, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/JyhT8GgMhl — ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2024 × Meanwhile, PM Modi explained how the UPI digital payments system has been implemented in the cities to French President Macron. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi explains the UPI digital payments system to French President Emmanuel Macron during their visit to Jaipur, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/98SbDN8D3e — ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2024 × Macron also visited Hawa Mahal in Jaipur along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in between the roadshow. During his India visit, Macron first met Modi at Jantar Mantar - the famous solar observatory established by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron visit Hawa Mahal in Jaipur pic.twitter.com/SLnupFX0yT — ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2024 × #WATCH | PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron at Jantar Mantar, the famous solar observatory, in Rajasthan's Jaipur pic.twitter.com/vdslirAiJd — ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2024 × UNESCO listed Jantar Mantar as a World Heritage Site in July 2010. It consists of a set of eighteen instruments and is the world's biggest stone observatory. Meanwhile, Indian PM Modi gifted a replica of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir to French President Emmanuel Macron. PM Modi and French President Macron also relished masala tea from Jaipur’s Sahu chaiwala and made the payment via UPI. Indian PM Narendra Modi gifts a replica of Ayodhya's Ram Mandir to French President Emmanuel Macron in Jaipur. Macron is the chief guest at the #RepublicDayParade in New Delhi on January 26.#RepublicDay2024 pic.twitter.com/9h1dQLf6nj — WION (@WIONews) January 25, 2024 × Also read: Macron lands in India with focus on defence deals and 'trust-based cooperation' Macron's India visit Macron arrived at Jaipur's international airport earlier in the day. He was received by Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. The French president then visited the Amer Fort where he interacted with artists, appreciated Rajasthani painting art and interacted with school students who had gathered to welcome him. #WATCH | French President Emmanuel Macron visits Amber Fort in Rajasthan's Jaipur during his two-day state visit to India EAM Dr S Jaishankar and Rajasthan Deputy CM Diya Kumari also present pic.twitter.com/giB38FZRzy — ANI (@ANI) January 25, 2024 × Meanwhile, Indian PM Modi, after visiting Jantar Mantar, wrote on X, "Visited Jantar Mantar in Jaipur with President @EmmanuelMacron. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to India's rich heritage in astronomy. It also symbolises the blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, a shared value that both India and France appreciate." Visited Jantar Mantar in Jaipur with President @EmmanuelMacron. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to India's rich heritage in astronomy. It also symbolises the blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, a shared value that both India and France appreciate. pic.twitter.com/2d0Se6bg3h — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2024 × In another tweet, PM Modi said, "It is a matter of great pride that he (Macron) will be taking part in our Republic Day celebrations". Welcome to India, my friend President @EmmanuelMacron. I am happy that President Macron begins his India visit from Jaipur in Rajasthan, a land with rich culture, heritage and talented people. It is a matter of great pride that he will be taking part in our Republic Day… pic.twitter.com/Q7JGuZpJJP — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2024 × Macron's visit to India comes on the heels of expanded bilateral cooperation between New Delhi and Paris in major areas, including defence. Watch: French President Emmanuel Macron reaches India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day In a statement, the French embassy said that the talks between Modi and Macron will cover defence cooperation, collaboration in the vast Indo-Pacific region and the course on responses to challenges such as terrorism, climate crisis, biodiversity loss, poverty eradication, strengthening business ties, and cross-investments. As part of expanded defence cooperation, India and France also plan to build three more Scorpene-class submarines with technology from France. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French President Macron hold roadshow in Jaipur

<p><strong>India-Republic Day Parade 2024:</strong> The sun was up on the&nbsp;morning of January 26 as the world's biggest democracy began its march as a free Republic for the 75th year since its constitution was first implemented in 1950. With French President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest, the nation began its show of might on Kartavya Path in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a focus on the themes of 'Nari Shakti' (women power) and 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India), the Kartavya Path witnessed the might of the All-women Tri-Services contingent comprising Agniveer troops.</p>

<p>This was the first time a women soldiers contingent representing all three services&nbsp;marched&nbsp;in the Republic Day with pride. The motto of the Tri-Service women contingent is 'Seva Tatha Sahayata'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-macron-says-france-will-welcome-30000-indian-students-by-2030-683750">France will welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, President Macron announces</a></strong></p>

<p>The contingent comprised of women soldiers from the Corps of Military Police of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, President Droupadi Murmu commenced the celebrations of the 75th Republic Day&nbsp;by unfurling the national flag at Kartavya Path.</p>

<h2><strong>Lord Ram and Uttar Pradesh tableau</strong></h2>

<p>A child depicted as&nbsp;Lord Ram was showcased in Uttar Pradesh's tableau on Friday on Kartavya Path in New Delhi.</p>

<p>The front of the tableau showed the <em>pran pratishtha (</em>consecration) ceremony that took place in Ayodhya on Jan 22,&nbsp;with an artistic model depicting a young Lord Ram holding a bow and arrow.</p>

<p>The tableau symbolised Ayodhya as a city that shows a "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) with "Samriddh Virasat" (rich heritage).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2024</a> tableau of Uttar Pradesh takes part in the parade.<br />
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The theme of the tableau is based on 'Ayodhya: Viksit Bharat-Samradh Virasat'. The front of the tableau symbolises the Pranpratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla, showcasing his childhood form. <a href="https://t.co/VHdsaiVMvo">pic.twitter.com/VHdsaiVMvo</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750765474839949782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The frill surrounding the tableau portrays 'Deepotsav - the festival of lights initiated by the state government to commemorate Bhagwan Shri Ram's arrival in Ayodhya," read a description of the tableau provided in an official booklet on the 75th Republic Day celebrations.</p>

<h2><strong>Republic Day 2024: Rafale jets roared through&nbsp;Delhi's skies&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The French contingent with Rafale fighter jets was flanked by a multi-role tanker transport aircraft roaring through Delhi's skies. On the ground, it was complemented&nbsp;with a 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band on Kartavya Path on Friday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Six Rafale aircraft fly over Kartavya Path in 'Marut' formation during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RepublicDay2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RepublicDay2024</a> celebrations. <a href="https://t.co/iBwwxWnfpm">pic.twitter.com/iBwwxWnfpm</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750776385835262425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The French president also shared the visuals of the march past on his X platform thanking India for the opportunity. "A great honor for France. Thank you, India," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A great honor for France.<br />
Thank you, India. <a href="https://t.co/fXfp4hdCsb">pic.twitter.com/fXfp4hdCsb</a></p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1750757564281766236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Republic Day Parade: Six Rafale aircraft fly over Kartavya Path in 'Marut' formation</strong></p>

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<p>For the first time, the 75th Republic Day parade was heralded by 100 women artists playing Indian musical instruments. The parade commenced with the music of Sankh, Naadswaram, Nagada, etc. played by women artists.</p>

<p>The Republic Day Parade at New Delhi's Kartavya Path began after President Droupadi Murmu along with French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron arrived at Kartavya Path in a 'traditional buggy'.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India-Republic Day Parade 2024: The sun was up on the morning of January 26 as the world's biggest democracy began its march as a free Republic for the 75th year since its constitution was first implemented in 1950.

India-Republic Day Parade 2024: The sun was up on the morning of January 26 as the world's biggest democracy began its march as a free Republic for the 75th year since its constitution was first implemented in 1950. With French President Emmanuel Macron as the chief guest, the nation began its show of might on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. With a focus on the themes of 'Nari Shakti' (women power) and 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India), the Kartavya Path witnessed the might of the All-women Tri-Services contingent comprising Agniveer troops. This was the first time a women soldiers contingent representing all three services marched in the Republic Day with pride. The motto of the Tri-Service women contingent is 'Seva Tatha Sahayata'. Also read | France will welcome 30,000 Indian students by 2030, President Macron announces The contingent comprised of women soldiers from the Corps of Military Police of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Earlier on Friday, President Droupadi Murmu commenced the celebrations of the 75th Republic Day by unfurling the national flag at Kartavya Path. Lord Ram and Uttar Pradesh tableau A child depicted as Lord Ram was showcased in Uttar Pradesh's tableau on Friday on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The front of the tableau showed the pran pratishtha (consecration) ceremony that took place in Ayodhya on Jan 22, with an artistic model depicting a young Lord Ram holding a bow and arrow. The tableau symbolised Ayodhya as a city that shows a "Viksit Bharat" (developed India) with "Samriddh Virasat" (rich heritage). #WATCH | The #RepublicDay2024 tableau of Uttar Pradesh takes part in the parade. The theme of the tableau is based on 'Ayodhya: Viksit Bharat-Samradh Virasat'. The front of the tableau symbolises the Pranpratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla, showcasing his childhood form. pic.twitter.com/VHdsaiVMvo — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2024 × "The frill surrounding the tableau portrays 'Deepotsav - the festival of lights initiated by the state government to commemorate Bhagwan Shri Ram's arrival in Ayodhya," read a description of the tableau provided in an official booklet on the 75th Republic Day celebrations. Republic Day 2024: Rafale jets roared through Delhi's skies The French contingent with Rafale fighter jets was flanked by a multi-role tanker transport aircraft roaring through Delhi's skies. On the ground, it was complemented with a 95-member marching contingent and a 33-member band on Kartavya Path on Friday. #WATCH | Six Rafale aircraft fly over Kartavya Path in 'Marut' formation during #RepublicDay2024 celebrations. pic.twitter.com/iBwwxWnfpm — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2024 × The French president also shared the visuals of the march past on his X platform thanking India for the opportunity. "A great honor for France. Thank you, India," he said. A great honor for France. Thank you, India. pic.twitter.com/fXfp4hdCsb — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2024 × Also watch | Republic Day Parade: Six Rafale aircraft fly over Kartavya Path in 'Marut' formation For the first time, the 75th Republic Day parade was heralded by 100 women artists playing Indian musical instruments. The parade commenced with the music of Sankh, Naadswaram, Nagada, etc. played by women artists. The Republic Day Parade at New Delhi's Kartavya Path began after President Droupadi Murmu along with French President Emmanuel Macron arrived at Kartavya Path in a 'traditional buggy'. (With inputs from agencies)

Republic Day 2024 Parade: Women-led spectacle with Ram, Rafale, G20 success and Indo-French bonhomie

<p lang="en-US">Russian President Vladimir Putin showered praises on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his leadership and appreciated India for following an 'independent' foreign policy which is not easy to pursue in the current scenario, reported Russia-based media network Russia Today (RT).<br />
<br />
The Russian president was interacting with university students in Kaliningrad Region on Thursday (Jan 25), which marked the 'Russian Student Day'.<br />
<br />
"India has one of the highest rates of economic development and growth in the world, and that too is due to the leadership qualities of incumbent Prime Minister. It was during his leadership that India reached such a pace," said President Putin, while interacting with students, reported RT.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-accuses-russia-of-playing-with-lives-in-deadly-plane-crash-calls-for-international-inquiry-683529">Russia starts 'terrorism' investigation into military plane crash</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">He added, "Russia can rely on India and its leadership because it is assured that New Delhi won't play 'games' against them at the international stage".<br />
<br />
"India is pursuing an independent foreign policy, which is not easy in today's world. But, India with a population of 1.5 billion has the right to do so. And under the leadership of the Prime Minister, that right is being realised. This is not just statement, it is important from the point of organising joint work because it gives us the opportunity to forecast the actions of our partners in medium and long terms," the President further said<br />
<br />
"This is important in practical work. Can we rely on a country and its leadership to co-operate or will it take decisions that do not even correspond to its national interest. With India, such games don't exist,” said Putin while interacting with the students.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin appreciates India's 'Make in India' initiative</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The Russian president further appreciated India's 'Make in India' initiative and said that Moscow is one of the highest investors in the country and is also looking forward to making major investments there.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India-Russia unlock shipping route with $50bn trade potential | WION Newspoint</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-russia-unlock-shipping-route-with-50bn-trade-potential-wion-newspoint-683439/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">"India has made huge steps in development, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His campaign 'Make in India' has been heard by many including Russia. And we are trying with our Indian friends to bring to life all these plans...the largest foreign investment in India has come from Russia. USD 23 billion was invested by our company Roseneft, acquisition of an oil refinery, a network of gas stations, a port and so on," said President Putin.<br />
<br />
He further spoke about the diverse culture of India and how popular Indian movies are in the country. "India is a great culture. It's diverse and colourful. Russia is probably the few places around the world where Indian movies are broadcast on national television," said Putin.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin showered praises on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his leadership and appreciated India for following an 'independent' foreign policy which is not easy to pursue in the current scenario, reported Russia-based media network Russia Today (RT).

Russian President Vladimir Putin showered praises on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his leadership and appreciated India for following an 'independent' foreign policy which is not easy to pursue in the current scenario, reported Russia-based media network Russia Today (RT). The Russian president was interacting with university students in Kaliningrad Region on Thursday (Jan 25), which marked the 'Russian Student Day'. "India has one of the highest rates of economic development and growth in the world, and that too is due to the leadership qualities of incumbent Prime Minister. It was during his leadership that India reached such a pace," said President Putin, while interacting with students, reported RT. Also read: Russia starts 'terrorism' investigation into military plane crash He added, "Russia can rely on India and its leadership because it is assured that New Delhi won't play 'games' against them at the international stage". "India is pursuing an independent foreign policy, which is not easy in today's world. But, India with a population of 1.5 billion has the right to do so. And under the leadership of the Prime Minister, that right is being realised. This is not just statement, it is important from the point of organising joint work because it gives us the opportunity to forecast the actions of our partners in medium and long terms," the President further said "This is important in practical work. Can we rely on a country and its leadership to co-operate or will it take decisions that do not even correspond to its national interest. With India, such games don't exist,” said Putin while interacting with the students. Putin appreciates India's 'Make in India' initiative The Russian president further appreciated India's 'Make in India' initiative and said that Moscow is one of the highest investors in the country and is also looking forward to making major investments there. Watch: India-Russia unlock shipping route with $50bn trade potential | WION Newspoint "India has made huge steps in development, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His campaign 'Make in India' has been heard by many including Russia. And we are trying with our Indian friends to bring to life all these plans...the largest foreign investment in India has come from Russia. USD 23 billion was invested by our company Roseneft, acquisition of an oil refinery, a network of gas stations, a port and so on," said President Putin. He further spoke about the diverse culture of India and how popular Indian movies are in the country. "India is a great culture. It's diverse and colourful. Russia is probably the few places around the world where Indian movies are broadcast on national television," said Putin. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia's Putin heaps praise on PM Modi, says 'can rely on India because...'

<p lang="en-US">The BJP launched its new election campaign song 'Modi ko chunte hain' on Thursday (Jan 24) as the Indian prime minister prepares to sound the 2024 Lok Sabha election's bugle<br />
<br />
“Sapne Nahi Haqeeqat Bunte Hai, Tabhi Toh Sab Modi Ko Chunte Hain ((Not dreams, but (we) weave reality, That’s why everyone chooses Modi)", is the name of the campaign song.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ahead-of-republic-day-pm-modi-and-french-president-macron-hold-roadshow-in-jaipur-683610">India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French President Macron hold roadshow in Jaipur</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The&nbsp;song narrates how&nbsp;the situation in the country was deplorable, after which the nation voted for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Campaign song video shows Modi prostrating in front of Ram Lalla&nbsp;idol</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The song added that the Indian prime minister kept his promise and the country's dream of development. The lyrics further says&nbsp;that Narendra Modi has chosen the right paths and turned everyone's dreams into reality, which is why everyone chooses him.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">सपने नहीं हकीकत बुनते हैं,<br />
तभी तो सब मोदी को चुनते हैं...<br />
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Today, BJP National President Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPNadda</a> launched BJP's official campaign for the 2024 general elections in the virtual presence of Honourable Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/cqpcekKWEV">pic.twitter.com/cqpcekKWEV</a></p>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1750409275716055144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The campaign song video ends&nbsp;with the prime minister prostrating in front of the Ram Lalla idol after the Pran Pratistha (ceremony) in Ayodhya's Ram Temple on January 22.<br />
<br />
"He considers Bharat his mother and the countrymen as God. He chooses work before name (fame). That's why everyone (every country) listens to him. Indian women emerged as leaders while corrupt people are scared...he remained close to the grounds but reached the sky (a reference to Chandrayaan)", said the theme song.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron reaches India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day</strong></p>

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<p><br />
The campaign song further talked about projects introduced by the prime minister for different sections of the society&nbsp;and the success achieved by the government's foreign policy.<br />
<br />
The political party had launched a different version of the same song ‘Tabhi toh sab Modi ko chunte’ before the state elections in 2023.<br />
<br />
Another campaign song-video, which asserted 'Phir aayega Modi' (Modi will come again), was launched by BJP in December 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The BJP launched its new election campaign song 'Modi ko chunte hain' on Thursday (Jan 24) as the Indian prime minister prepares to sound the 2024 Lok Sabha election's bugle “Sapne Nahi Haqeeqat Bunte Hai, Tabhi Toh Sab Modi Ko Chunte Hain ((Not dreams, but (we) weave reality, That’s why everyone chooses Modi)", is the name of the campaign song.

The BJP launched its new election campaign song 'Modi ko chunte hain' on Thursday (Jan 24) as the Indian prime minister prepares to sound the 2024 Lok Sabha election's bugle “Sapne Nahi Haqeeqat Bunte Hai, Tabhi Toh Sab Modi Ko Chunte Hain ((Not dreams, but (we) weave reality, That’s why everyone chooses Modi)", is the name of the campaign song. Also read: India: Ahead of Republic Day, PM Modi and French President Macron hold roadshow in Jaipur The song narrates how the situation in the country was deplorable, after which the nation voted for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Campaign song video shows Modi prostrating in front of Ram Lalla idol The song added that the Indian prime minister kept his promise and the country's dream of development. The lyrics further says that Narendra Modi has chosen the right paths and turned everyone's dreams into reality, which is why everyone chooses him. सपने नहीं हकीकत बुनते हैं, तभी तो सब मोदी को चुनते हैं... Today, BJP National President Shri @JPNadda launched BJP's official campaign for the 2024 general elections in the virtual presence of Honourable Prime Minister @narendramodi. pic.twitter.com/cqpcekKWEV — BJP (@BJP4India) January 25, 2024 × The campaign song video ends with the prime minister prostrating in front of the Ram Lalla idol after the Pran Pratistha (ceremony) in Ayodhya's Ram Temple on January 22. "He considers Bharat his mother and the countrymen as God. He chooses work before name (fame). That's why everyone (every country) listens to him. Indian women emerged as leaders while corrupt people are scared...he remained close to the grounds but reached the sky (a reference to Chandrayaan)", said the theme song. Watch: French President Emmanuel Macron reaches India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day The campaign song further talked about projects introduced by the prime minister for different sections of the society and the success achieved by the government's foreign policy. The political party had launched a different version of the same song ‘Tabhi toh sab Modi ko chunte’ before the state elections in 2023. Another campaign song-video, which asserted 'Phir aayega Modi' (Modi will come again), was launched by BJP in December 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024: BJP launches campaign song, evokes PM Modi's popularity. Watch

<p>India-Maldives ties: In the wake of escalating diplomatic tussle between India and the Maldives, the latter's two major Opposition parties, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats, jointly expressed apprehension about President Muizzu's government's 'anti-India stance' during a press conference on Wednesday (Jan 24).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both parties hailed India's role as the 'most long-standing ally' of the Maldives.</p>

<p>The development unfolded following an announcement by the Maldives government that a Chinese research and survey vessel would be docking at a Maldivian port.</p>

<p>New Delhi has been closely monitoring the movement of the Chinese ship.</p>

<p>At the joint press conference, representatives from the MDP and the Democrats voiced their concerns, stating, "The current administration seems to be taking a clear pivot towards an anti-India stance. Both the MDP and the Democrats believe that distancing from any development partner, particularly the country's most long-standing ally, will be highly detrimental to the long-term development of the Maldives."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India-Maldives tensions: Maldives government confirms arrival of Chinese ship</strong></p>

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<p>They brought&nbsp;focus on the importance of maintaining stable relations with all development partners.</p>

<p>"Stability and security in the Indian Ocean are vital to the stability and security of the Maldives," they added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Breaking: Joint press statement by Maldives Opposition MDP &amp; the Democrats say, "the current administration appears to be making a stark pivot towards an anti India stance.. will be extremely detrimental" <a href="https://t.co/Lt523EUcqq">pic.twitter.com/Lt523EUcqq</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1750191399243591730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The ongoing tension was ignited when three deputy ministers of the Maldives posted derogatory comments against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and against Indians in general during the Indian prime minister's visit to Lakshadweep.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-14-year-old-dies-after-president-muizzu-denies-approval-to-use-indian-plane-for-airlift-681975">Maldives:14-year-old dies after President Muizzu 'denies approval' to use Indian plane for airlift</a></strong></p>

<p>President Muizzu subsequently suspended the ministers while responding to concerns from India. But the damage was done as Indians on social media led boycott calls against visiting Maldives.</p>

<p>Adding to the strain, President Muizzu has requested India to withdraw its military personnel from the Maldives by March 15. Currently, there are 88 Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives, involved in operating a Dornier aircraft and two helicopters provided by India.</p>

<p>In a departure from tradition, President Muizzu made Beijing his first port of call earlier this month after assuming office, marking a shift from the customary practice of the Maldivian President's first visit being to New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India-Maldives ties: In the wake of escalating diplomatic tussle between India and the Maldives, the latter's two major Opposition parties, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats, jointly expressed apprehension about President Muizzu's government's 'anti-India stance' during a press conference on Wednesday (Jan 24).

India-Maldives ties: In the wake of escalating diplomatic tussle between India and the Maldives, the latter's two major Opposition parties, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats, jointly expressed apprehension about President Muizzu's government's 'anti-India stance' during a press conference on Wednesday (Jan 24). Both parties hailed India's role as the 'most long-standing ally' of the Maldives. The development unfolded following an announcement by the Maldives government that a Chinese research and survey vessel would be docking at a Maldivian port. New Delhi has been closely monitoring the movement of the Chinese ship. At the joint press conference, representatives from the MDP and the Democrats voiced their concerns, stating, "The current administration seems to be taking a clear pivot towards an anti-India stance. Both the MDP and the Democrats believe that distancing from any development partner, particularly the country's most long-standing ally, will be highly detrimental to the long-term development of the Maldives." Also watch | India-Maldives tensions: Maldives government confirms arrival of Chinese ship × They brought focus on the importance of maintaining stable relations with all development partners. "Stability and security in the Indian Ocean are vital to the stability and security of the Maldives," they added. Breaking: Joint press statement by Maldives Opposition MDP & the Democrats say, "the current administration appears to be making a stark pivot towards an anti India stance.. will be extremely detrimental" pic.twitter.com/Lt523EUcqq — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 24, 2024 × The ongoing tension was ignited when three deputy ministers of the Maldives posted derogatory comments against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and against Indians in general during the Indian prime minister's visit to Lakshadweep. Also read | Maldives:14-year-old dies after President Muizzu 'denies approval' to use Indian plane for airlift President Muizzu subsequently suspended the ministers while responding to concerns from India. But the damage was done as Indians on social media led boycott calls against visiting Maldives. Adding to the strain, President Muizzu has requested India to withdraw its military personnel from the Maldives by March 15. Currently, there are 88 Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives, involved in operating a Dornier aircraft and two helicopters provided by India. In a departure from tradition, President Muizzu made Beijing his first port of call earlier this month after assuming office, marking a shift from the customary practice of the Maldivian President's first visit being to New Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives: India hailed as 'most long-standing ally' by Opposition amid Muizzu's pro-China stance

<p>India-France ties: French President Emmanuel Macron's began his official visit to India on Thursday (Jan 25) as Republic Day chief guest. The trip comes on the heels of expanded bilateral cooperation between New Delhi and Paris in key areas including defence.</p>

<p>Macron landed in the northern Jaipur city at 2:30 pm local time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The talks between Macron and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jaipur will cover defence cooperation, collaboration in the vast Indo-Pacific region and the course on responses to challenges such as terrorism, climate crisis, biodiversity loss, poverty eradication, strengthening business ties, and cross-investments, the French embassy said in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>India-France ties: Defence remains top focus</strong></h2>

<p>India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in 2015 and&nbsp;the Indian Air Force received the last of these fighter aircraft in December 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In July 2023, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Paris visit, the two countries signed up to "extend their ground-breaking defence cooperation in advanced aeronautical technologies by supporting the joint development of a combat aircraft engine", according to an <a href="https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/36806/Horizon_2047_25th_Anniversary_of_the_IndiaFrance_Strategic_Partnership_Towards_A_Century_of_IndiaFrance_Relations">official</a> readout.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cast-from-the-past-indians-who-died-protecting-france-615813">Cast From The Past: Indians who died protecting France during first World War</a></strong></p>

<p>Macron's visit comes at a time when India is looking at buying 26 Rafale M fighters for the Indian Navy's&nbsp;first indigenous aircraft carrier, the INS Vikrant.</p>

<p>As part of expanded defence cooperation, New Delhi and Paris&nbsp;also plan to build three more Scorpene-class submarines with technology from France.</p>

<p>President Macron’s visit is also aimed at strengthening the France-India strategic partnership that the two leaders signed up in Paris on July 14 through the <a href="https://www.mea.gov.in/bilateral-documents.htm?dtl/36806/Horizon_2047_25th_Anniversary_of_the_IndiaFrance_Strategic_Partnership_Towards_A_Century_of_IndiaFrance_Relations">Horizon 2047</a> Roadmap.</p>

<p><strong>India-France ties |&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron to visit India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day</strong></p>

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<p>"Twenty-five years after the launch of their Strategic Partnership, France and India have embarked on new common goals for the next 25 years. Accordingly, President Macron’s talks with Prime Minister Modi will seek to advance our cooperation and finalise new initiatives under the three pillars of the road map," the French embassy said in an official readout.</p>

<p>The three pillars are "partnership for security and sovereignty, partnership for the planet, and partnership for the people".</p>

<h2><strong>India-France ties: Where do they stand?</strong></h2>

<p>France and India in recent years have developed a "trust-based cooperation" aimed at strengthening strategic autonomy.</p>

<p>The two countries are also key partners in&nbsp;the Indo-Pacific region, where they remain "open to inviting strategic partner countries in the region to participate in Indo-French [naval] exercises".</p>


India-France ties: French President Emmanuel Macron's began his official visit to India on Thursday (Jan 25) as Republic Day chief guest. The trip comes on the heels of expanded bilateral cooperation between New Delhi and Paris in key areas including defence.

India-France ties: French President Emmanuel Macron's began his official visit to India on Thursday (Jan 25) as Republic Day chief guest. The trip comes on the heels of expanded bilateral cooperation between New Delhi and Paris in key areas including defence. Macron landed in the northern Jaipur city at 2:30 pm local time. The talks between Macron and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Jaipur will cover defence cooperation, collaboration in the vast Indo-Pacific region and the course on responses to challenges such as terrorism, climate crisis, biodiversity loss, poverty eradication, strengthening business ties, and cross-investments, the French embassy said in a statement. India-France ties: Defence remains top focus India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in 2015 and the Indian Air Force received the last of these fighter aircraft in December 2022. In July 2023, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Paris visit, the two countries signed up to "extend their ground-breaking defence cooperation in advanced aeronautical technologies by supporting the joint development of a combat aircraft engine", according to an official readout. Also read | Cast From The Past: Indians who died protecting France during first World War Macron's visit comes at a time when India is looking at buying 26 Rafale M fighters for the Indian Navy's first indigenous aircraft carrier, the INS Vikrant. As part of expanded defence cooperation, New Delhi and Paris also plan to build three more Scorpene-class submarines with technology from France. President Macron’s visit is also aimed at strengthening the France-India strategic partnership that the two leaders signed up in Paris on July 14 through the Horizon 2047 Roadmap. India-France ties | French President Emmanuel Macron to visit India as Chief Guest for 75th Republic Day × "Twenty-five years after the launch of their Strategic Partnership, France and India have embarked on new common goals for the next 25 years. Accordingly, President Macron’s talks with Prime Minister Modi will seek to advance our cooperation and finalise new initiatives under the three pillars of the road map," the French embassy said in an official readout. The three pillars are "partnership for security and sovereignty, partnership for the planet, and partnership for the people". India-France ties: Where do they stand? France and India in recent years have developed a "trust-based cooperation" aimed at strengthening strategic autonomy. The two countries are also key partners in the Indo-Pacific region, where they remain "open to inviting strategic partner countries in the region to participate in Indo-French [naval] exercises".

Macron lands in India with focus on defence deals and 'trust-based cooperation'

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to the Indian state of Bihar's two-time chief minister Karpoori Thakur on his 100th birth anniversary and spoke about the leader's significant contributions in the field of social justice and his unwavering commitment to ensuring people's welfare.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Karpoori Thakur was awarded India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, on Tuesday (Jan 23), one day before his birth anniversary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his blog post, Indian PM Modi spoke about the legacy of Thakur and how he implemented quotas in jobs for other backward classes (OBCs) while ensuring equitable distribution of reservation benefits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today is the birth centenary of Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji, whose relentless pursuit of social justice created a positive impact in the lives of crores of people," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-karpoori-thakur-the-jan-nayak-honoured-with-bharat-ratna-posthumously-682918">Who was Karpoori Thakur? The ‘Jan Nayak’ honoured with Bharat Ratna posthumously</a></p>

<p>He emphasised the humble beginnings of Thakur and the resilience he showed by overcoming various obstacles to work for societal betterment.</p>

<p>PM Modi also remembered anecdotes from the life of Karpoori Thakur which illustrated his simplicity and cited instances of him spending his own money on personal issues, which included his daughter's wedding.</p>

<p>“During his tenure as Chief Minister of Bihar, a decision was taken to build a colony for political leaders but he himself did not take any land or money for the same. When he passed away in 1988, several leaders went to his village to pay tributes. When they saw the condition of his house, they were moved to tears- how can someone so towering have a house so simple!” PM Modi wrote.</p>

<h2><strong>Thakur in Congress Party's omnipresent era&nbsp;took distinctly anti-Congress line: PM&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Recalling an incident from 1977 when he had become the chief minister of Bihar, PM Modi said that Thakur attended an event with a torn kurta. He added that even though the then-chief minister received monetary help to purchase a new one, he donated the money collected to the CM Relief Fund, which showed his selfless nature.</p>

<p>"His political journey was marked by monumental efforts to create a society where resources were distributed fairly, and everyone, regardless of their social standing, had access to opportunities," PM Modi said, emphasising the commitment of Thakur to addressing systemic inequalities.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India's gold reserves now larger than Saudi Arabia &amp; UK</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-gold-reserves-now-larger-than-saudi-arabia-uk-681266/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Such was his commitment to his ideals that despite living in an era where the Congress Party was omnipresent, he took a distinctly anti-Congress line because he was convinced very early on that the Congress had deviated from its founding principles,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to the Indian state of Bihar's two-time chief minister Karpoori Thakur on his 100th birth anniversary and spoke about the leader's significant contributions in the field of social justice and his unwavering commitment to ensuring people's welfare.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to the Indian state of Bihar's two-time chief minister Karpoori Thakur on his 100th birth anniversary and spoke about the leader's significant contributions in the field of social justice and his unwavering commitment to ensuring people's welfare. Karpoori Thakur was awarded India’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, on Tuesday (Jan 23), one day before his birth anniversary. In his blog post, Indian PM Modi spoke about the legacy of Thakur and how he implemented quotas in jobs for other backward classes (OBCs) while ensuring equitable distribution of reservation benefits. "Today is the birth centenary of Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji, whose relentless pursuit of social justice created a positive impact in the lives of crores of people," PM Modi said. Also read: Who was Karpoori Thakur? The ‘Jan Nayak’ honoured with Bharat Ratna posthumously He emphasised the humble beginnings of Thakur and the resilience he showed by overcoming various obstacles to work for societal betterment. PM Modi also remembered anecdotes from the life of Karpoori Thakur which illustrated his simplicity and cited instances of him spending his own money on personal issues, which included his daughter's wedding. “During his tenure as Chief Minister of Bihar, a decision was taken to build a colony for political leaders but he himself did not take any land or money for the same. When he passed away in 1988, several leaders went to his village to pay tributes. When they saw the condition of his house, they were moved to tears- how can someone so towering have a house so simple!” PM Modi wrote. Thakur in Congress Party's omnipresent era took distinctly anti-Congress line: PM Recalling an incident from 1977 when he had become the chief minister of Bihar, PM Modi said that Thakur attended an event with a torn kurta. He added that even though the then-chief minister received monetary help to purchase a new one, he donated the money collected to the CM Relief Fund, which showed his selfless nature. "His political journey was marked by monumental efforts to create a society where resources were distributed fairly, and everyone, regardless of their social standing, had access to opportunities," PM Modi said, emphasising the commitment of Thakur to addressing systemic inequalities. Watch: India's gold reserves now larger than Saudi Arabia & UK “Such was his commitment to his ideals that despite living in an era where the Congress Party was omnipresent, he took a distinctly anti-Congress line because he was convinced very early on that the Congress had deviated from its founding principles,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM recounts anecdotes illustrating simplicity of Karpoori Thakur on his birth centenary

<p>A fresh controversy has erupted after Veerappa Moily, Indian National Congress leader and former chief minister of the southern state of Karnataka, cast doubt on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's eleven-day fast leading up to the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moily claimed to have consulted a doctor who questioned the feasibility of sustaining on coconut water alone for such an extended period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the veteran Congress leader went on to say, "If he (PM Modi) is alive, then&nbsp;is it a miracle?&nbsp;I doubt if he fasted."</p>

<p>In response, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Lahar Singh Siroya said that not everyone is "fake like him (Veerappa Moily)."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the 11 days leading up to the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, PM Modi engaged in worshipping and feeding cows as per Hindu tradition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His diet was reported to be minimal, consisting mainly of coconut water and fruits.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Inauguration: PM Modi takes 'Panchamrit', breaks fast after 'Pran Pratishtha' ritual</strong></p>

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<p>Additionally, the Prime Minister also embarked on a spiritual tour, visiting various temples linked to the Ramayana era.</p>

<p>A day before the consecration ceremony, PM Modi visited Arichalmunai, believed to be the location where Ram Setu was built.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On January 22, following the Pran Pratishtha (consecration), he broke his fast by having charanamrit (holy water)&nbsp;from Govind Dev Giri Maharaj, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Khestra.</p>

<p>Moily, however, suggested that if PM Modi had not observed the fast, the sanctum sanctorum might have become impure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ram-mandir-in-ayodhya-isros-satellite-view-of-ram-temple-shows-holy-town-in-all-its-glory-682327">Ram Mandir in Ayodhya: ISRO's satellite view of Ram temple shows holy town in all its glory</a></strong></p>

<p>"If he (Modi) had done Pooja in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple without observing fast, then that place would become impure and will (sic) not generate (supernatural) power," Moily remarked.</p>

<p>Responding to Moily's doubts, Lahar Singh Siroya said: "You can fast and survive if you have faith in Lord Ram, not if you are pleasing the Gandhi family."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also predicted that despite Moily's efforts to please the family, he would not secure a Congress ticket to contest from Chikkaballapur in Karnataka.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A fresh controversy has erupted after Veerappa Moily, Indian National Congress leader and former chief minister of the southern state of Karnataka, cast doubt on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's eleven-day fast leading up to the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

A fresh controversy has erupted after Veerappa Moily, Indian National Congress leader and former chief minister of the southern state of Karnataka, cast doubt on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's eleven-day fast leading up to the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Moily claimed to have consulted a doctor who questioned the feasibility of sustaining on coconut water alone for such an extended period. On Tuesday, the veteran Congress leader went on to say, "If he (PM Modi) is alive, then is it a miracle? I doubt if he fasted." In response, BJP Rajya Sabha MP Lahar Singh Siroya said that not everyone is "fake like him (Veerappa Moily)." During the 11 days leading up to the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, PM Modi engaged in worshipping and feeding cows as per Hindu tradition. His diet was reported to be minimal, consisting mainly of coconut water and fruits. Also watch | Ram Mandir Inauguration: PM Modi takes 'Panchamrit', breaks fast after 'Pran Pratishtha' ritual × Additionally, the Prime Minister also embarked on a spiritual tour, visiting various temples linked to the Ramayana era. A day before the consecration ceremony, PM Modi visited Arichalmunai, believed to be the location where Ram Setu was built. On January 22, following the Pran Pratishtha (consecration), he broke his fast by having charanamrit (holy water) from Govind Dev Giri Maharaj, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Khestra. Moily, however, suggested that if PM Modi had not observed the fast, the sanctum sanctorum might have become impure. Also read | Ram Mandir in Ayodhya: ISRO's satellite view of Ram temple shows holy town in all its glory "If he (Modi) had done Pooja in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple without observing fast, then that place would become impure and will (sic) not generate (supernatural) power," Moily remarked. Responding to Moily's doubts, Lahar Singh Siroya said: "You can fast and survive if you have faith in Lord Ram, not if you are pleasing the Gandhi family." He also predicted that despite Moily's efforts to please the family, he would not secure a Congress ticket to contest from Chikkaballapur in Karnataka. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya consecration: 'Miracle' that Modi is alive, says Congress leader Moily on PM's 11-day ritual

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Jan 23) commemorated the birth anniversary of legendary freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, which is also observed as Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour).</p>

<p>PM Modi along with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh and others paid floral tributes to Netaji at Samvidhan Sadan (Old Parliament Building).</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister then highlighted Netaji's contribution to India's freedom.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and other leaders paid floral tributes to Netaji at Samvidhan Sadan. <a href="https://t.co/62klyEI0sb">pic.twitter.com/62klyEI0sb</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1749669365426147589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas. Today on his Jayanti, we honour the life and courage of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His unwavering dedication to our nation's freedom continues to inspire," wrote PM Modi on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas. Today on his Jayanti, we honour the life and courage of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His unwavering dedication to our nation's freedom continues to inspire. <a href="https://t.co/OZP6cJBgeC">pic.twitter.com/OZP6cJBgeC</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1749632292111413706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's President Droupadi Murmu also paid her respects to the freedom fighter underlining his extraordinary commitment to the cause of India's independence.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-sarma-directs-police-to-register-case-against-rahul-gandhi-as-his-supporters-break-barricades-in-guwahati-682797">CM Sarma directs police to register case against Rahul Gandhi</a></p>

<p>"I pay my tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary, observed as Parakram Diwas! Netaji demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the cause of India's freedom. His unparalleled courage and charisma inspired Indians to fight fearlessly against colonial rule. His powerful personality had a profound impact on our freedom struggle. The nation will always remember Netaji with utmost gratitude." President Droupadi Murmu posted on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">President Droupadi Murmu paid floral tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at Rashtrapati Bhavan on his birth anniversary observed as Parakram Diwas. <a href="https://t.co/NPXXy264Ty">pic.twitter.com/NPXXy264Ty</a></p>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1749707993229488358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also remembered Netaji on his birth anniversary and in a post on X wrote, "Remembering the fearless leader, #Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, on his birth anniversary, celebrated as Parakram Diwas. His indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to India's independence continue to inspire us all."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Remembering the fearless leader, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Netaji?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Netaji</a> Subhas Chandra Bose, on his birth anniversary, celebrated as Parakram Diwas.<br />
<br />
His indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to India's independence continue to inspire us all. Netaji’s clarion call for freedom, encapsulated in the…</p>
— Vice President of India (@VPIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1749634406388818246?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further quoting Netaji's iconic words, "Give me blood and I shall give you freedom," Dhankhar laid stress on how these words reverberate through history as a rallying cry for liberty.</p>

<p>He concluded his tweet by stating, "May this day serve as a reminder to keep Bharat first, and to work tirelessly towards a united, prosperous, and free India."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Jan 23) commemorated the birth anniversary of legendary freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, which is also observed as Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Jan 23) commemorated the birth anniversary of legendary freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, which is also observed as Parakram Diwas (Day of Valour). PM Modi along with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh and others paid floral tributes to Netaji at Samvidhan Sadan (Old Parliament Building). The Indian prime minister then highlighted Netaji's contribution to India's freedom. #WATCH | Delhi: On the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and other leaders paid floral tributes to Netaji at Samvidhan Sadan. pic.twitter.com/62klyEI0sb — ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2024 × "Greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas. Today on his Jayanti, we honour the life and courage of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His unwavering dedication to our nation's freedom continues to inspire," wrote PM Modi on X. Greetings to the people of India on Parakram Diwas. Today on his Jayanti, we honour the life and courage of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. His unwavering dedication to our nation's freedom continues to inspire. pic.twitter.com/OZP6cJBgeC — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 23, 2024 × India's President Droupadi Murmu also paid her respects to the freedom fighter underlining his extraordinary commitment to the cause of India's independence. Also read: CM Sarma directs police to register case against Rahul Gandhi "I pay my tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary, observed as Parakram Diwas! Netaji demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the cause of India's freedom. His unparalleled courage and charisma inspired Indians to fight fearlessly against colonial rule. His powerful personality had a profound impact on our freedom struggle. The nation will always remember Netaji with utmost gratitude." President Droupadi Murmu posted on X. President Droupadi Murmu paid floral tributes to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at Rashtrapati Bhavan on his birth anniversary observed as Parakram Diwas. pic.twitter.com/NPXXy264Ty — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 23, 2024 × Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also remembered Netaji on his birth anniversary and in a post on X wrote, "Remembering the fearless leader, #Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, on his birth anniversary, celebrated as Parakram Diwas. His indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to India's independence continue to inspire us all." Remembering the fearless leader, #Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, on his birth anniversary, celebrated as Parakram Diwas. His indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to India's independence continue to inspire us all. Netaji’s clarion call for freedom, encapsulated in the… — Vice President of India (@VPIndia) January 23, 2024 × Further quoting Netaji's iconic words, "Give me blood and I shall give you freedom," Dhankhar laid stress on how these words reverberate through history as a rallying cry for liberty. He concluded his tweet by stating, "May this day serve as a reminder to keep Bharat first, and to work tirelessly towards a united, prosperous, and free India." (With inputs from agencies)

India: Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays floral tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose

<p>On September 25, 1990, a 63-year-old Lal Krishna Advani addressed a sea of people near Gujarat's Somnath Temple, rebuilt just 39 years ago in 1951 right after India's independence from the British Empire.</p>

<p>A Shiva temple symbolising a <em>jyotirlinga</em> or the most sacred devotional representation of God Shiva stood in Somnath as early as 2,000 years ago. The last demolition of the holy site came at the hands of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1665. It lay in ruins until India's independence in 1947, following which its reconstruction began under the orders of the first Deputy Prime Minister of India&nbsp;Vallabhbhai Patel upon receiving approval for reconstruction from Mahatma Gandhi.</p>

<p>"Why is the government unwilling to rebuild a grand Ram Temple at Ayodhya?" Advani asked the crowd at Somnath as he began his 'rath yatra' or chariot procession on September 25, 1990, pointing towards the Somnath precedent which stood close to that site of address.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani near Gujarat's Somnath Temple on Sept 25, 1990" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c6ebb4d-c042-45fd-882c-e4dd20cad5ee" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-01-22T221359.618.png" /></p>

<p><em>BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani near Gujarat's Somnath Temple on Sept 25, 1990 | via X</em></p>

<p>From Somnath, riding on a DCM Toyota mini-truck designed to look like a chariot, Advani set himself on course to travel on it for 10,000 km from Somnath to Ayodhya. October 30, 1990, was scheduled as the concluding day of the Rath Yatra to "begin building a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya".&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the disputed site in Ayodhya existed a 16th-century mosque which Hindus believed, and archaeological evidence later reportedly confirmed, was built on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On his way, Advani's procession covered 10,000 km across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and later Bihar after a brief halt. Helping him for the Gujarat leg of the yatra was a 40-year-old Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The choice of Somnath as the starting point of the yatra had a powerful symbolic value," Advani later wrote of the Rath Yatra in his 2008 autobiography <em>My Country My Life</em>, adding that the intent was to "seek legitimacy for Mandir movement by drawing a parallel" with the history of Islamic conquests in Indian subcontinent vis-a-vis the destruction of pre-existing places of worship, mostly Hindu and Jain temples.</p>

<h2><strong>How did people respond to Advani's&nbsp;Rath Yatra?</strong></h2>

<p>In the countryside of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, journalists described a lot of womenfolk lining up on either side of the road with a copper plate and with ritual material&nbsp;like lamps, flowers, and coins which were thrown at the DCM Toyota 'Rath.'&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Advani's rath got expensive offerings, like received in temples," writes Vinay Sitapati in his 2020 book <em>Jugalbandi: The BJP Before Modi</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"One young man even stabbed his hand and smeared the blood on Advani's forehead as a Tilak. Advani blanched, his discomfort evident," Sitapati added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the rath rolled on across western and central India, "it became increasingly clear that the question of building a Ram Temple touches an emotional chord," NM Ghatate quoted former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a close Advani contemporary, as saying in his book <em>Atal Bihari Vajpayee: Four Decades in Parliament</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Advani was arrested in Bihar's Samastipur by the then&nbsp;chief minister Lalu Yadav on October 23, 1990.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The procession to Ayodhya continued without him.</p>

<p>In a public statement, Vajpayee said that Advani was going to Ayodhya to do penance, "not fight Ravana".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But many time (sic) the vanara sena (monkey army) that followed Ram did not know where they were going," Vajpayee said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On October 30, 1990, Uttar Pradesh police opened fire on Karsevaks (Hindu volunteers) in Ayodhya. The mosque at the site believed to be Ram's birthplace was damaged but stood nonetheless.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two years later, at 1:55 pm&nbsp;on December 6, 1992, Advani heard a loud thud. A 200,000-strong mob razed one of the domes of the mosque they believed stood at Ram's birthplace. Advani and others were at Ram Katha Kunj, an elevated platform 200 metres from the mosque.</p>

<p>"Rather than witness the final journey he had commenced from Somnath in September 1990, Advani spent the next few hours on the platform. The journalist Chandan Mitra was also on the platform. He remembers that Advani 'went downstairs and just sat silently through the evening. Once or twice when he did come up, he kept repeating that it is unfortunate'," Sitapati writes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After 27&nbsp;years, India's Supreme Court gave its judgment on the title suit for Ayodhya's site of contention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>'Temple gets site, mosque a plot', said the front page of a leading English newspaper on November 10, 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Within the next three months, as per the court's order, a Temple Trust was constituted by the administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the same man who was key to galvanisation of support for Advani's Rath Yatra during its Gujarat leg in 1990.&nbsp;<br />
<img alt="Narendra Modi (first from right) with LK Advani (third from right) during Gujarat leg of Ram Rath Yatra | File" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31cee258-eecf-43b7-8657-567150cfb346" src="//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>About a year later in September 2020, Advani and 31 others were acquitted of charges related to December 6, 1992 violence in Ayodhya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Anti-social elements brought down the structure. The accused leaders tried to stop these people," said the special judge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In January 2024, the Ram Temple was consecrated in Ayodhya by Advani's 1990 disciple, Narendra Modi, elected India's Prime Minister since 2014.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Ram not just belongs to us but everyone, says PM Modi at inauguration</strong></p>

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<p>At 96, as Advani chose to give temple consecration a miss due to "cold weather", Modi announced the arrival of Ram at his birthplace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi is "the devotee chosen by Lord Ram to consecrate his temple", Advani said on January 15. "I was just a charioteer."</p>


On September 25, 1990, a 63-year-old Lal Krishna Advani addressed a sea of people near Gujarat's Somnath Temple, rebuilt just 39 years ago in 1951 right after India's independence from the British Empire.

On September 25, 1990, a 63-year-old Lal Krishna Advani addressed a sea of people near Gujarat's Somnath Temple, rebuilt just 39 years ago in 1951 right after India's independence from the British Empire. A Shiva temple symbolising a jyotirlinga or the most sacred devotional representation of God Shiva stood in Somnath as early as 2,000 years ago. The last demolition of the holy site came at the hands of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1665. It lay in ruins until India's independence in 1947, following which its reconstruction began under the orders of the first Deputy Prime Minister of India Vallabhbhai Patel upon receiving approval for reconstruction from Mahatma Gandhi. "Why is the government unwilling to rebuild a grand Ram Temple at Ayodhya?" Advani asked the crowd at Somnath as he began his 'rath yatra' or chariot procession on September 25, 1990, pointing towards the Somnath precedent which stood close to that site of address. BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani near Gujarat's Somnath Temple on Sept 25, 1990 | via X From Somnath, riding on a DCM Toyota mini-truck designed to look like a chariot, Advani set himself on course to travel on it for 10,000 km from Somnath to Ayodhya. October 30, 1990, was scheduled as the concluding day of the Rath Yatra to "begin building a grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya". At the disputed site in Ayodhya existed a 16th-century mosque which Hindus believed, and archaeological evidence later reportedly confirmed, was built on the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ram. On his way, Advani's procession covered 10,000 km across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and later Bihar after a brief halt. Helping him for the Gujarat leg of the yatra was a 40-year-old Narendra Modi. "The choice of Somnath as the starting point of the yatra had a powerful symbolic value," Advani later wrote of the Rath Yatra in his 2008 autobiography My Country My Life, adding that the intent was to "seek legitimacy for Mandir movement by drawing a parallel" with the history of Islamic conquests in Indian subcontinent vis-a-vis the destruction of pre-existing places of worship, mostly Hindu and Jain temples. How did people respond to Advani's Rath Yatra? In the countryside of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, journalists described a lot of womenfolk lining up on either side of the road with a copper plate and with ritual material like lamps, flowers, and coins which were thrown at the DCM Toyota 'Rath.' "Advani's rath got expensive offerings, like received in temples," writes Vinay Sitapati in his 2020 book Jugalbandi: The BJP Before Modi. "One young man even stabbed his hand and smeared the blood on Advani's forehead as a Tilak. Advani blanched, his discomfort evident," Sitapati added. As the rath rolled on across western and central India, "it became increasingly clear that the question of building a Ram Temple touches an emotional chord," NM Ghatate quoted former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a close Advani contemporary, as saying in his book Atal Bihari Vajpayee: Four Decades in Parliament. Advani was arrested in Bihar's Samastipur by the then chief minister Lalu Yadav on October 23, 1990. The procession to Ayodhya continued without him. In a public statement, Vajpayee said that Advani was going to Ayodhya to do penance, "not fight Ravana". "But many time (sic) the vanara sena (monkey army) that followed Ram did not know where they were going," Vajpayee said. On October 30, 1990, Uttar Pradesh police opened fire on Karsevaks (Hindu volunteers) in Ayodhya. The mosque at the site believed to be Ram's birthplace was damaged but stood nonetheless. Two years later, at 1:55 pm on December 6, 1992, Advani heard a loud thud. A 200,000-strong mob razed one of the domes of the mosque they believed stood at Ram's birthplace. Advani and others were at Ram Katha Kunj, an elevated platform 200 metres from the mosque. "Rather than witness the final journey he had commenced from Somnath in September 1990, Advani spent the next few hours on the platform. The journalist Chandan Mitra was also on the platform. He remembers that Advani 'went downstairs and just sat silently through the evening. Once or twice when he did come up, he kept repeating that it is unfortunate'," Sitapati writes. After 27 years, India's Supreme Court gave its judgment on the title suit for Ayodhya's site of contention. 'Temple gets site, mosque a plot', said the front page of a leading English newspaper on November 10, 2019. Within the next three months, as per the court's order, a Temple Trust was constituted by the administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the same man who was key to galvanisation of support for Advani's Rath Yatra during its Gujarat leg in 1990. Narendra Modi (first from right) with LK Advani (third from right) during Gujarat leg of Ram Rath Yatra in September 1990 | File About a year later in September 2020, Advani and 31 others were acquitted of charges related to December 6, 1992 violence in Ayodhya. "Anti-social elements brought down the structure. The accused leaders tried to stop these people," said the special judge. In January 2024, the Ram Temple was consecrated in Ayodhya by Advani's 1990 disciple, Narendra Modi, elected India's Prime Minister since 2014. Also watch | Ram Mandir Ayodhya: Ram not just belongs to us but everyone, says PM Modi at inauguration × At 96, as Advani chose to give temple consecration a miss due to "cold weather", Modi announced the arrival of Ram at his birthplace. Modi is "the devotee chosen by Lord Ram to consecrate his temple", Advani said on January 15. "I was just a charioteer."

Cast From The Past | Rath Yatra to Ram Mandir: Between Advani of 1990 and Modi of 2024

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after the completion of the Ram Mandir&nbsp;consecration ceremony in India's temple city of Ayodhya, showered flower petals on 'shramiks' (workers) who carried out the temple's construction. Flowers were also showered&nbsp;by the prime minister on the idol of Jatayu which is present in the premises of Ram Temple. He further offered prayers to Lord Shiva in Ayodhya Dham.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian PM Modi, while speaking to the dignitaries who were invited to the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Temple, said that the moment of Ram Lalla idol's unveiling is an occasion not just of triumph but also of humility.</p>

<h2><strong>PM calls consecration ceremony a 'moment of celebration'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"This is a moment of celebration as well as the moment of a reflection of Indian society's maturity. It is an occasion of not merely triumph but humility too. The history of the world is itself proof that many countries get strangled in their own history and such countries faced difficulties when they tried to solve their problems...but the way, our country untied the knots of history, is proof that our future is going to be more beautiful than our past," Modi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | PM Modi showers petals on 'shramiks' (workers) who were involved in the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamMandirPranPratishtha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamMandirPranPratishtha</a> <a href="https://t.co/jsgSWOqJES">pic.twitter.com/jsgSWOqJES</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1749372754833613283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The prime minister called&nbsp;the temple's construction a symbol of harmony, patience, peace, and integration in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-30-years-300-columns-3d-structural-analysis-architect-narrates-journey-of-temple-designing-682206">Ram Mandir | 30 years, 300 columns, 3D structural analysis: Architect narrates journey of temple designing</a></p>

<p>"There was also a time when some people used to say 'Ram Mandir bana toh aag lag jaegi' (the construction of the temple will set off a firestorm). Such people could not understand the purity of India's social spirit. The construction of this temple of Ram Lalla is also a symbol of peace, patience, mutual harmony and coordination of the Indian society. We are seeing that this construction is not giving birth to any fire, but to energy," the PM said.</p>

<p>The prime minister&nbsp;unveiled Ram Lalla idol at the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony after priests carried out hour-long rituals. He also performed multiple rituals at the temple and the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ (consecration) ceremony took place during the 84-second 'Abhijeet muhurta'. After the rituals ended, PM Modi prostrated himself in front of the idol, which is&nbsp;the depiction of child Ram.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Ayodhya Ram Mandir: PM Modi performs aarti in front of Ram Lalla's idol</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-pm-modi-performs-aarti-in-front-of-ram-lallas-idol-682393/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The prime minister walked into the temple premises carrying a silver 'chattar' (umbrella) which was kept on a red folded dupatta. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Governor Anandiben Patel and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat were also present inside the sanctum sanctorum during the ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after the completion of the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in India's temple city of Ayodhya, showered flower petals on 'shramiks' (workers) who carried out the temple's construction.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after the completion of the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in India's temple city of Ayodhya, showered flower petals on 'shramiks' (workers) who carried out the temple's construction. Flowers were also showered by the prime minister on the idol of Jatayu which is present in the premises of Ram Temple. He further offered prayers to Lord Shiva in Ayodhya Dham. Indian PM Modi, while speaking to the dignitaries who were invited to the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Temple, said that the moment of Ram Lalla idol's unveiling is an occasion not just of triumph but also of humility. PM calls consecration ceremony a 'moment of celebration' "This is a moment of celebration as well as the moment of a reflection of Indian society's maturity. It is an occasion of not merely triumph but humility too. The history of the world is itself proof that many countries get strangled in their own history and such countries faced difficulties when they tried to solve their problems...but the way, our country untied the knots of history, is proof that our future is going to be more beautiful than our past," Modi said. VIDEO | PM Modi showers petals on 'shramiks' (workers) who were involved in the construction of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.#RamMandirPranPratishtha pic.twitter.com/jsgSWOqJES — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 22, 2024 × The prime minister called the temple's construction a symbol of harmony, patience, peace, and integration in the country. Also read: Ram Mandir | 30 years, 300 columns, 3D structural analysis: Architect narrates journey of temple designing "There was also a time when some people used to say 'Ram Mandir bana toh aag lag jaegi' (the construction of the temple will set off a firestorm). Such people could not understand the purity of India's social spirit. The construction of this temple of Ram Lalla is also a symbol of peace, patience, mutual harmony and coordination of the Indian society. We are seeing that this construction is not giving birth to any fire, but to energy," the PM said. The prime minister unveiled Ram Lalla idol at the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony after priests carried out hour-long rituals. He also performed multiple rituals at the temple and the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ (consecration) ceremony took place during the 84-second 'Abhijeet muhurta'. After the rituals ended, PM Modi prostrated himself in front of the idol, which is the depiction of child Ram. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: PM Modi performs aarti in front of Ram Lalla's idol The prime minister walked into the temple premises carrying a silver 'chattar' (umbrella) which was kept on a red folded dupatta. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Governor Anandiben Patel and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat were also present inside the sanctum sanctorum during the ceremony. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: PM Modi showers petals on workers who constructed Ram Mandir

<p>Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited southern India's Arichalmunai in Tamil Nadu state as part of his visits to the Ramayana-era places with devotional significance ahead of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. After paying floral tribute at the seashore believed to be the starting point of ancient Ram Setu — also known as Adam's bridge — Modi also offered prayers at Kothandaramaswamy Temple.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The word Kothandarama means lord Ram with the bow.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The temple is located in Dhanushkodi, the place where the demon king Ravana's brother Vibhishana first met Lord Ram and sought refuge. It was in&nbsp;Dhanushkodi where Lord Ram took a vow to defeat Ravana who had abducted Sita, Lord Ram's wife.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Ram Mandir Inauguration: PM Modi offered prayers at Sri Ranganathaswamy temple</strong></p>

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<p>According to ancient Indian scriptures, this is the place where Ram also conducted Vibhishana's coronation after defeating his brother Ravana in the great battle across the sea in Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Arichal Munai point, which is the place from where Ram Setu starts. <a href="https://t.co/Cy86FtwyBB">pic.twitter.com/Cy86FtwyBB</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1748955282754171200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, on Saturday (Jan 20), the Prime Minister visited Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli and Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram.</p>

<p>"Will never forget yesterday's visit to the Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple. There is timeless devotion in every part of the Temple," PM Modi posted from his official X handle.</p>

<p>Modi is now set to wind up his three-day tour of Tamil Nadu.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi's Ramayana tour in temples across India</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an eleven-day 'Anushtaan' (special ritual) ahead of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony on Jan 22. Modi set out on a pilgrimage to shrines associated with Lord Ram across the country.</p>

<p>It took him to Ramkund and Shree Kalaram Temple in Nasik, Veerbhadra Temple in Lepakshi, Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, and Guruvayur Temple and Triprayar Shree Ramaswami Temple in Kerala over the past few days.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/pm-modi-launches-temple-cleanliness-drive-ahead-of-ayodhya-consecration-1705058935000">PM Modi launches temple cleanliness drive ahead of Ram Temple consecration</a></strong></p>

<p>PM Modi also initiated the Swachh Teerth initiative (or a drive to keep temples clean) after he mopped the premises of Shree Kalaram Temple in Nasik on January 12.</p>

<p>The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's temple will take place on Monday, January 22.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited southern India's Arichalmunai in Tamil Nadu state as part of his visits to the Ramayana-era places with devotional significance ahead of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited southern India's Arichalmunai in Tamil Nadu state as part of his visits to the Ramayana-era places with devotional significance ahead of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. After paying floral tribute at the seashore believed to be the starting point of ancient Ram Setu — also known as Adam's bridge — Modi also offered prayers at Kothandaramaswamy Temple. The word Kothandarama means lord Ram with the bow. #InPics | Prime Minister Narendra Modi is at Arichal Munai point, which is the place from where Ram Setu starts.#RamMandirInauguration (Image source: News agency ANI) pic.twitter.com/td9YRijjvN — WION (@WIONews) January 21, 2024 × The temple is located in Dhanushkodi, the place where the demon king Ravana's brother Vibhishana first met Lord Ram and sought refuge. It was in Dhanushkodi where Lord Ram took a vow to defeat Ravana who had abducted Sita, Lord Ram's wife. Also watch | Ram Mandir Inauguration: PM Modi offered prayers at Sri Ranganathaswamy temple × According to ancient Indian scriptures, this is the place where Ram also conducted Vibhishana's coronation after defeating his brother Ravana in the great battle across the sea in Lanka. Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Arichal Munai point, which is the place from where Ram Setu starts. pic.twitter.com/Cy86FtwyBB — ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2024 × Earlier, on Saturday (Jan 20), the Prime Minister visited Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli and Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram. "Will never forget yesterday's visit to the Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple. There is timeless devotion in every part of the Temple," PM Modi posted from his official X handle. Modi is now set to wind up his three-day tour of Tamil Nadu. Modi's Ramayana tour in temples across India Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an eleven-day 'Anushtaan' (special ritual) ahead of the Ram Temple consecration ceremony on Jan 22. Modi set out on a pilgrimage to shrines associated with Lord Ram across the country. It took him to Ramkund and Shree Kalaram Temple in Nasik, Veerbhadra Temple in Lepakshi, Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, and Guruvayur Temple and Triprayar Shree Ramaswami Temple in Kerala over the past few days. Also read | PM Modi launches temple cleanliness drive ahead of Ram Temple consecration PM Modi also initiated the Swachh Teerth initiative (or a drive to keep temples clean) after he mopped the premises of Shree Kalaram Temple in Nasik on January 12. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's temple will take place on Monday, January 22. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi visits Ram Setu's origin point, offers prayers at Rameshwaram temple ahead of Ram Temple inauguration

<p>India will not have to wait too long for a&nbsp;Boeing&nbsp;aircraft that is designed and manufactured in the subcontinent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the inauguration of the planemaker's engineering centre in Bengaluru on Friday.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Boeing&nbsp;India Engineering &amp; Technology Center (BIETC) in the capital city of the southern Indian state of Karnataka is the company's largest facility outside of the United States and will focus on research and development.</p>

<p>The company said it had invested $200 million in the campus, which is spread across 43 acres, but did not provide details on the number of people the facility will employ.&nbsp; Boeing&nbsp;currently employs more than 6,000 people in India across its various centres.</p>

<p>At the event, which was also attended by senior&nbsp;Boeing&nbsp;executives including Chief Operating Officer Stephanie Pope, PM Modi stressed the need to build an aircraft manufacturing ecosystem in India.</p>

<p>"Given that there is so much potential in India, we need to rapidly build an aircraft manufacturing ecosystem in the country," Modi said.</p>

<p>Boeing&nbsp;has witnessed a surge in interest for its jets in India, currently the world's fastest-growing aviation market, with travel demand outstripping the supply of planes.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the aircraft manufacturer received orders for 150 737 MAX narrowbody jets from Akasa Air, India's youngest carrier.</p>

<p>In an exclusive interview with Reuters last year, India's civil aviation minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, said it was time for&nbsp;Boeing&nbsp;and rival Airbus to consider setting up jetliner assembly in the country.</p>

<p>Boeing&nbsp;has an alliance with India's Tata Group to produce AH-64 Apache helicopter fuselages and 737 aircraft vertical fin structures.</p>


India will not have to wait too long for a Boeing aircraft that is designed and manufactured in the subcontinent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the inauguration of the planemaker's engineering centre in Bengaluru on Friday.

India will not have to wait too long for a Boeing aircraft that is designed and manufactured in the subcontinent, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at the inauguration of the planemaker's engineering centre in Bengaluru on Friday. The Boeing India Engineering & Technology Center (BIETC) in the capital city of the southern Indian state of Karnataka is the company's largest facility outside of the United States and will focus on research and development. The company said it had invested $200 million in the campus, which is spread across 43 acres, but did not provide details on the number of people the facility will employ. Boeing currently employs more than 6,000 people in India across its various centres. At the event, which was also attended by senior Boeing executives including Chief Operating Officer Stephanie Pope, PM Modi stressed the need to build an aircraft manufacturing ecosystem in India. "Given that there is so much potential in India, we need to rapidly build an aircraft manufacturing ecosystem in the country," Modi said. Boeing has witnessed a surge in interest for its jets in India, currently the world's fastest-growing aviation market, with travel demand outstripping the supply of planes. On Thursday, the aircraft manufacturer received orders for 150 737 MAX narrowbody jets from Akasa Air, India's youngest carrier. In an exclusive interview with Reuters last year, India's civil aviation minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, said it was time for Boeing and rival Airbus to consider setting up jetliner assembly in the country. Boeing has an alliance with India's Tata Group to produce AH-64 Apache helicopter fuselages and 737 aircraft vertical fin structures.

India PM Modi says won’t be long before Boeing makes aircraft in India

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jan 19) got emotional while inaugurating India's Largest Society under PM Awas Yojana in Solapur in the Indian state of Maharashtra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi handed over the houses to beneficiaries like handloom workers, vendors, power loom workers, rag pickers, Bidi workers, and drivers, among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) is a flagship mission of the Indian government which is being implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/weather-update-no-cold-wave-in-north-india-after-jan-25-dense-fog-to-persist-for-next-three-days-681629">Weather update: No cold wave in North India after Jan 25, dense fog to persist for next three days</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>PM Modi said, "It gives immense satisfaction when the dreams of thousands of families are realised and their blessings become my greatest wealth."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was overwhelmed with emotion when he said, "I went to see it and wished if I had a chance to live in such a house when I was a kid."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I feel content when I see that the dreams of thousands of families have been fulfilled. And their blessings are the biggest asset for me," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/expelled-tmc-mp-mahua-moitra-vacates-government-bungalow-says-no-eviction-681590">Expelled TMC MP Mahua Moitra vacates government bungalow, says 'no eviction'</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Modi gets emotional as he talks about houses completed under PMAY-Urban scheme in Maharashtra, to be handed over to beneficiaries like handloom workers, vendors, power loom workers, rag pickers, Bidi workers, drivers, among others.<br />
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PM is addressing an event in… <a href="https://t.co/KlBnL50ms5">pic.twitter.com/KlBnL50ms5</a></p>
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<p>On Friday, PM Modi dedicated to the nation more than 90,000 houses completed under PMAY-U in Maharashtra and 15,000 houses of Raynagar Housing Society in Solapur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the gathering, PM Modi recalled assuring the people during the foundation stone laying ceremony of this project that Modi himself would come to hand over the keys to their houses upon completion of the project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today Modi has fulfilled his guarantee," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further he mentioned&nbsp;Lord Ram in his speech and said, "Lord Ram taught us to honour commitments made and we are fulfilling all goals we set for the welfare of the poor and their empowerment."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Lord Ram did the work that made his people happy. My government is dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of the poor. We launched schemes to mitigate their hardships," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also highlighted how the PMAY-U scheme has impacted the lives of families.</p>

<p>"This marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing affordable housing to the underprivileged. The completion of these houses is a testament to the government's dedication to uplifting the living standards of those who have historically been on the fringes of society," said the PM.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jan 19) got emotional while inaugurating India's Largest Society under PM Awas Yojana in Solapur in the Indian state of Maharashtra.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jan 19) got emotional while inaugurating India's Largest Society under PM Awas Yojana in Solapur in the Indian state of Maharashtra. PM Modi handed over the houses to beneficiaries like handloom workers, vendors, power loom workers, rag pickers, Bidi workers, and drivers, among others. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) is a flagship mission of the Indian government which is being implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). Also read: Weather update: No cold wave in North India after Jan 25, dense fog to persist for next three days PM Modi said, "It gives immense satisfaction when the dreams of thousands of families are realised and their blessings become my greatest wealth." He was overwhelmed with emotion when he said, "I went to see it and wished if I had a chance to live in such a house when I was a kid." "I feel content when I see that the dreams of thousands of families have been fulfilled. And their blessings are the biggest asset for me," he added. Also read: Expelled TMC MP Mahua Moitra vacates government bungalow, says 'no eviction' Watch the video here: #WATCH | PM Modi gets emotional as he talks about houses completed under PMAY-Urban scheme in Maharashtra, to be handed over to beneficiaries like handloom workers, vendors, power loom workers, rag pickers, Bidi workers, drivers, among others. PM is addressing an event in… pic.twitter.com/KlBnL50ms5 — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2024 × On Friday, PM Modi dedicated to the nation more than 90,000 houses completed under PMAY-U in Maharashtra and 15,000 houses of Raynagar Housing Society in Solapur. During the gathering, PM Modi recalled assuring the people during the foundation stone laying ceremony of this project that Modi himself would come to hand over the keys to their houses upon completion of the project. "Today Modi has fulfilled his guarantee," he said. Further he mentioned Lord Ram in his speech and said, "Lord Ram taught us to honour commitments made and we are fulfilling all goals we set for the welfare of the poor and their empowerment." "Lord Ram did the work that made his people happy. My government is dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of the poor. We launched schemes to mitigate their hardships," he added. PM Modi also highlighted how the PMAY-U scheme has impacted the lives of families. "This marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing affordable housing to the underprivileged. The completion of these houses is a testament to the government's dedication to uplifting the living standards of those who have historically been on the fringes of society," said the PM. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH: PM Modi gets emotional while talking about houses completed under govt scheme

<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (Jan 17) said that the "remarkable achievements" of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government have benefited the relations of many ally countries as he weighed in on India as an "extraordinary success story".&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Blinken highlighted that the relations between India and the United States have been established to a new level, and added that conversation between both nations always underscores the significance of democracy and human rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We see an extraordinary success story and we see the remarkable achievements that Prime Minister Modi has achieved moving forward under his watch that have materially benefited and positively affected so many of the allies," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-pakistan-calls-airspace-violation-by-iran-sad-incident-says-have-taken-measures-680919">Exclusive: Pakistan calls airspace violation by Iran ‘sad incident’, says ‘have taken measures’</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Blinken was asked whether or not the rise of Hindu nationalism in India concerns the US, despite the country's strong economic growth and infrastructure development under the Modi government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We also see our relationship between our countries that is in a new place at a new level. That's been a very deliberate effort by both the Prime Minister and President Biden," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"At the same time, a constant and regular part of our conversation is the conversation about democracy and about human rights," Blinken said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-sea-tensions-why-yemens-houthis-could-become-americas-terrorists-once-again-680920">Red Sea tensions: How Yemen’s Houthis became America’s ‘terrorists’ once again</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Blinken said that when Biden took office, he wanted to make sure that the US put back into our foreign policy, including fundamental concerns about democracy, and human rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Because of the nature of the relationship, we have with the country, with the government, it's part of very sustain, very real conversation and the conversation that we have off course produces positive change," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel military says it targeted head of a terrorist cell</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Blinken on Israel-Hamas war&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While talking about the West Asian crisis, Blinken called on Israel to help the Palestinian Authority, saying that Israel's long-term security was at stake.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He renewed his call for a "pathway to a Palestinian state" despite the fact that Washington backs Israel's Gaza campaign launched in response to the October 7 Hamas attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You're not going to get the genuine security you need absent that. And, of course, to that end as well, a stronger, reformed Palestinian Authority that can more effectively deliver for its own people has to be part of the equation," Blinken said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken flight delayed by 'critical failure'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Blinken was forced to delay his return Wednesday from Switzerland due to aeroplane trouble. He was unable to leave Zurich due to what a US official called a "critical failure" of the aeroplane due to an oxygen leak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A separate plane was sent to retrieve Blinken, who had flown from Davos to Zurich by helicopter, with aides returning to Washington by commercial flight.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (Jan 17) said that the "remarkable achievements" of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government have benefited the relations of many ally countries as he weighed in on India as an "extraordinary success story".

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday (Jan 17) said that the "remarkable achievements" of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his government have benefited the relations of many ally countries as he weighed in on India as an "extraordinary success story". While speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF), Blinken highlighted that the relations between India and the United States have been established to a new level, and added that conversation between both nations always underscores the significance of democracy and human rights. "We see an extraordinary success story and we see the remarkable achievements that Prime Minister Modi has achieved moving forward under his watch that have materially benefited and positively affected so many of the allies," he said. Also read: Exclusive: Pakistan calls airspace violation by Iran ‘sad incident’, says ‘have taken measures’ Blinken was asked whether or not the rise of Hindu nationalism in India concerns the US, despite the country's strong economic growth and infrastructure development under the Modi government. "We also see our relationship between our countries that is in a new place at a new level. That's been a very deliberate effort by both the Prime Minister and President Biden," he added. "At the same time, a constant and regular part of our conversation is the conversation about democracy and about human rights," Blinken said. Also read: Red Sea tensions: How Yemen’s Houthis became America’s ‘terrorists’ once again Blinken said that when Biden took office, he wanted to make sure that the US put back into our foreign policy, including fundamental concerns about democracy, and human rights. "Because of the nature of the relationship, we have with the country, with the government, it's part of very sustain, very real conversation and the conversation that we have off course produces positive change," he added. Watch: Israel military says it targeted head of a terrorist cell × Blinken on Israel-Hamas war While talking about the West Asian crisis, Blinken called on Israel to help the Palestinian Authority, saying that Israel's long-term security was at stake. He renewed his call for a "pathway to a Palestinian state" despite the fact that Washington backs Israel's Gaza campaign launched in response to the October 7 Hamas attack. "You're not going to get the genuine security you need absent that. And, of course, to that end as well, a stronger, reformed Palestinian Authority that can more effectively deliver for its own people has to be part of the equation," Blinken said. Blinken flight delayed by 'critical failure' Meanwhile, Blinken was forced to delay his return Wednesday from Switzerland due to aeroplane trouble. He was unable to leave Zurich due to what a US official called a "critical failure" of the aeroplane due to an oxygen leak. A separate plane was sent to retrieve Blinken, who had flown from Davos to Zurich by helicopter, with aides returning to Washington by commercial flight. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken says US sees India as ‘extraordinary success story’, praises Modi govt

<p>Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) leader and Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Tuesday (Jan 16) reportedly issued fresh threats to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and dared him to attend the Republic Day parade without security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India-based news agency PTI accessed two videos and an email which was sent to some journalists. In one of the purported videos, he was heard saying: "I dare Modi, you come to Delhi without your security."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "If you are a popular leader, come to Delhi on R-Day without security and SFJ is going to avenge the assassination of Shaheed Nijjar by raising the Khalistan flag."&nbsp;Notably, Nijjar was killed by unidentified assailants at a gurdwara in Canada's Surrey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>January 26 is when the entire nation celebrates the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-mandir-inauguration-modis-function-congress-leader-rahul-gandhi-takes-a-dig-at-indian-pm-680512">Ram Mandir inauguration 'Modi's function': Congress leader Rahul Gandhi takes a dig at Indian PM</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Pannun also threatened to kill Bhagwant Mann, who is the chief minister of the Indian state of Punjab. Pannun also issued the same threat for Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.</p>

<p>PTI reported that Pannun asked gangsters in the state to join the banned outfit SFJ and stop top political leaders from attending the Republic Day parade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In one of the videos, Pannun compared Mann with former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh, who was assassinated in a bomb blast on August 31, 1995.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The blast had claimed the lives of 17 others. The banned terror group — Babbar Khalsa International had carried out the blast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While mentioning the Punjab top cop Yadav, Pannun compared him to assassinated police officer Gobind Ram, who was killed in a bomb blast in 1990.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/krishna-janambhoomi-case-sc-stays-allahabad-hc-order-on-shahi-idgah-survey-680436">Krishna Janmabhoomi case: SC stays Allahabad HC order on Shahi Idgah survey</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by the news agency, Punjab Police officials said while on condition of anonymity that Pannun and his organisation have issued threats in the past as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The officials added that the necessary precautions have been taken to ensure "tight security" for all VIPs in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Union Home Ministry labelled Pannun as a terrorist under the anti-terror law Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and SFJ was banned in 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian investigation team to visit UK to meet authorities, to seek details on 3 fugitives</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Pannun issued similar threat in 2023 also&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Last year also, Pannu posted a video on social media asserting to execute a terrorist attack on Republic Day. In the posted video, he claimed to "liberate Punjab from Indian occupation in 2023".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Stay indoors on January 26, or you’ll be thwarted by the SFJ. Delhi will be our target, and we will unfurl the flag of Khalistan," Pannu had said, further offering $5,00,000 to anyone who unfurls Khalistan's flag on the Red Fort.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) leader and Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Tuesday (Jan 16) reportedly issued fresh threats to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and dared him to attend the Republic Day parade without security.

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) leader and Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Tuesday (Jan 16) reportedly issued fresh threats to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and dared him to attend the Republic Day parade without security. India-based news agency PTI accessed two videos and an email which was sent to some journalists. In one of the purported videos, he was heard saying: "I dare Modi, you come to Delhi without your security." He added, "If you are a popular leader, come to Delhi on R-Day without security and SFJ is going to avenge the assassination of Shaheed Nijjar by raising the Khalistan flag." Notably, Nijjar was killed by unidentified assailants at a gurdwara in Canada's Surrey. January 26 is when the entire nation celebrates the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. Also read: Ram Mandir inauguration 'Modi's function': Congress leader Rahul Gandhi takes a dig at Indian PM Pannun also threatened to kill Bhagwant Mann, who is the chief minister of the Indian state of Punjab. Pannun also issued the same threat for Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav. PTI reported that Pannun asked gangsters in the state to join the banned outfit SFJ and stop top political leaders from attending the Republic Day parade. In one of the videos, Pannun compared Mann with former Punjab chief minister Beant Singh, who was assassinated in a bomb blast on August 31, 1995. The blast had claimed the lives of 17 others. The banned terror group — Babbar Khalsa International had carried out the blast. While mentioning the Punjab top cop Yadav, Pannun compared him to assassinated police officer Gobind Ram, who was killed in a bomb blast in 1990. Also read: Krishna Janmabhoomi case: SC stays Allahabad HC order on Shahi Idgah survey As quoted by the news agency, Punjab Police officials said while on condition of anonymity that Pannun and his organisation have issued threats in the past as well. The officials added that the necessary precautions have been taken to ensure "tight security" for all VIPs in the state. The Union Home Ministry labelled Pannun as a terrorist under the anti-terror law Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and SFJ was banned in 2020. Watch: Indian investigation team to visit UK to meet authorities, to seek details on 3 fugitives × Pannun issued similar threat in 2023 also Last year also, Pannu posted a video on social media asserting to execute a terrorist attack on Republic Day. In the posted video, he claimed to "liberate Punjab from Indian occupation in 2023". "Stay indoors on January 26, or you’ll be thwarted by the SFJ. Delhi will be our target, and we will unfurl the flag of Khalistan," Pannu had said, further offering $5,00,000 to anyone who unfurls Khalistan's flag on the Red Fort. (With inputs from agencies)

Khalistani terrorist Pannun issues fresh warning to Indian PM Narendra Modi: ‘I dare Modi...’

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Jan 15) posted on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that he held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and discussed regional and global issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Had a good conversation with President Putin. We discussed various positive developments in our Special &amp; Privileged Strategic Partnership and agreed to chalk out a roadmap for future initiatives," PM Modi posted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We also had a useful exchange of views on various regional and global issues, including Russia’s Presidency of the BRICS," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-maldives-row-cant-guarantee-every-nation-will-support-india-says-foreign-minister-jaishankar-680130">'Can't guarantee every nation will support India', says Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on&nbsp;India-Maldives row</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Kremlin said in a statement that both the leaders discussed Ukraine and also wished each other well in upcoming elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement posted on the Kremlin's website added that the two leaders "expressed interest in further intensifying mutually beneficial bilateral ties" and touched upon "the situation in Ukraine".&nbsp;</p>

<p>It said that the leaders also wished each other success in upcoming parliamentary elections in India and a presidential poll in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-and-india-initiate-talks-on-withdrawal-of-indian-troops-report-679886">After China visit, Maldives president Muizzu asks India to withdraw military personnel before March 15</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Putin's meeting with Jaishankar&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Last month, Putin held a meeting at the Kremlin with visiting Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. Putin also said that Indian-Russian trade is growing and invited PM Modi to visit Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in the visit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia and India had made tangible progress in talks on plans to jointly produce military equipment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Narendra Modi gallery at PMs' museum to open on January 16&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia to host BRICS summit in 2024&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russia is all set to host the BRICS summit, scheduled to take place in 2024. Last month, he said that the summit under Russia's presidency in Kazan will be dedicated to establishing a fair world order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his year-end news conference, Putin had said the summit would influence the current situation to move in the right direction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In October, Russia will host the BRICS summit under the slogan "Strengthening multilateralism for equitable global development and security".&nbsp;</p>

<p>BRICS is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It refers to an association of leading emerging markets. South Africa joined the group in 2010. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates joined the organisation on January 1, 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Jan 15) posted on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that he held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and discussed regional and global issues.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (Jan 15) posted on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that he held a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin and discussed regional and global issues. "Had a good conversation with President Putin. We discussed various positive developments in our Special & Privileged Strategic Partnership and agreed to chalk out a roadmap for future initiatives," PM Modi posted. "We also had a useful exchange of views on various regional and global issues, including Russia’s Presidency of the BRICS," he added. Also read: 'Can't guarantee every nation will support India', says Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on India-Maldives row The Kremlin said in a statement that both the leaders discussed Ukraine and also wished each other well in upcoming elections. The statement posted on the Kremlin's website added that the two leaders "expressed interest in further intensifying mutually beneficial bilateral ties" and touched upon "the situation in Ukraine". It said that the leaders also wished each other success in upcoming parliamentary elections in India and a presidential poll in Russia. Also read: After China visit, Maldives president Muizzu asks India to withdraw military personnel before March 15 Putin's meeting with Jaishankar Last month, Putin held a meeting at the Kremlin with visiting Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. Putin also said that Indian-Russian trade is growing and invited PM Modi to visit Moscow. Earlier in the visit, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia and India had made tangible progress in talks on plans to jointly produce military equipment. Watch: Narendra Modi gallery at PMs' museum to open on January 16 × Russia to host BRICS summit in 2024 Russia is all set to host the BRICS summit, scheduled to take place in 2024. Last month, he said that the summit under Russia's presidency in Kazan will be dedicated to establishing a fair world order. During his year-end news conference, Putin had said the summit would influence the current situation to move in the right direction. In October, Russia will host the BRICS summit under the slogan "Strengthening multilateralism for equitable global development and security". BRICS is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It refers to an association of leading emerging markets. South Africa joined the group in 2010. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates joined the organisation on January 1, 2024. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi holds phone call with Putin, discusses regional and global issues, BRICS’ presidency

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jan 12) inaugurated Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu. The bridge built at a cost of Rs 17,840 crore ($2.15 billion)&nbsp;is the longest in the country and will connect south Mumbai with Nhava-Sheva in Navi Mumbai.</p>

<p>Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Governor Ramesh Bais, and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were also present during the event.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Modi inaugurates Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewari - Nhava Sheva Atal Setu in Maharashtra<br />
<br />
Atal Setu is the longest bridge in India and also the longest sea bridge in the country. It will provide faster connectivity to Mumbai International Airport and Navi Mumbai… <a href="https://t.co/2GT2OUkVnC">pic.twitter.com/2GT2OUkVnC</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1745755162231361905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Named after the late leader of the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the bridge is 21.8 km long and will also&nbsp;provide faster connectivity to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and reduce the travel time between Mumbai and Pune.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will also improve connectivity between the Mumbai Port and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Navi Mumbai.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | The 21.8km long Mumbai Transharbour link (MTHL), now named ‘Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri - Nhava Sheva Atal Setu’, built at a total cost of more than Rs 17,840 crore was inaugurated by PM Modi, today<br />
<br />
Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais, CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM… <a href="https://t.co/3iM75feiqr">pic.twitter.com/3iM75feiqr</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1745756597077574076?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The foundation stone of the bridge was laid by PM Modi in the year 2016.</p>

<p>On Friday, the Indian prime minister also laid the foundation stone of an underground road tunnel that will connect the Eastern Freeway in eastern Mumbai to Marine Drive in south Mumbai.</p>

<p>The 9.2 km tunnel will be built at a cost of more than Rs 8700 crore ($1.05 billion).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-all-set-to-inaugurate-atal-setu-today-here-are-five-key-facts-to-know-679273">Indian PM all set to inaugurate Atal Setu today; here are five key facts to know</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi inaugurates 27th National Youth Festival</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated the 27th National Youth Festival at Tapovan Ground in Maharashtra's Nashik where he encouraged the youth of the country to indulge in activities that would be remembered by&nbsp;future generations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch </strong>|&nbsp;<strong>PM Modi inaugurates India's longest sea bridge 'Atal Setu' in Mumbai</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From the sages, and saints of our country to the common man, everyone has always kept youth power paramount. Sri Aurobindo believed that if India wants to achieve her goals, the youth of India will have to move forward with independent thinking. Swami Vivekananda used to say that India's hopes rest on the<br />
character and commitment of her youth," said the PM.</p>

<p>"The youth have the calibre to create history, do such work that the generation of that time in the next century will remember you," PM Modi further said.</p>

<p>He also&nbsp;expressed his confidence in the&nbsp;ability of the youth to elevate the country and highlighted India's achievements, positioning it as the world's fifth largest economy. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am confident that your strength and your spirit of service will take the country and society to new heights. Your efforts and your hard work will hoist the flag of the power of young India all over the world. I request you to start using products that are locally manufactured, start promoting them and stand for made-in-India products. Together, we can build our country to be the manufacturing hub of the world," PM Modi&nbsp;said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jan 12) inaugurated Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu. The bridge built at a cost of Rs 17,840 crore ($2.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Jan 12) inaugurated Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri-Nhava Sheva Atal Setu. The bridge built at a cost of Rs 17,840 crore ($2.15 billion) is the longest in the country and will connect south Mumbai with Nhava-Sheva in Navi Mumbai. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Governor Ramesh Bais, and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were also present during the event. #WATCH | PM Modi inaugurates Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewari - Nhava Sheva Atal Setu in Maharashtra Atal Setu is the longest bridge in India and also the longest sea bridge in the country. It will provide faster connectivity to Mumbai International Airport and Navi Mumbai… pic.twitter.com/2GT2OUkVnC — ANI (@ANI) January 12, 2024 × Named after the late leader of the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) and former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the bridge is 21.8 km long and will also provide faster connectivity to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and reduce the travel time between Mumbai and Pune. It will also improve connectivity between the Mumbai Port and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Navi Mumbai. #WATCH | The 21.8km long Mumbai Transharbour link (MTHL), now named ‘Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sewri - Nhava Sheva Atal Setu’, built at a total cost of more than Rs 17,840 crore was inaugurated by PM Modi, today Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais, CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM… pic.twitter.com/3iM75feiqr — ANI (@ANI) January 12, 2024 × The foundation stone of the bridge was laid by PM Modi in the year 2016. On Friday, the Indian prime minister also laid the foundation stone of an underground road tunnel that will connect the Eastern Freeway in eastern Mumbai to Marine Drive in south Mumbai. The 9.2 km tunnel will be built at a cost of more than Rs 8700 crore ($1.05 billion). Also read: Indian PM all set to inaugurate Atal Setu today; here are five key facts to know PM Modi inaugurates 27th National Youth Festival Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated the 27th National Youth Festival at Tapovan Ground in Maharashtra's Nashik where he encouraged the youth of the country to indulge in activities that would be remembered by future generations. Watch | PM Modi inaugurates India's longest sea bridge 'Atal Setu' in Mumbai × "From the sages, and saints of our country to the common man, everyone has always kept youth power paramount. Sri Aurobindo believed that if India wants to achieve her goals, the youth of India will have to move forward with independent thinking. Swami Vivekananda used to say that India's hopes rest on the character and commitment of her youth," said the PM. "The youth have the calibre to create history, do such work that the generation of that time in the next century will remember you," PM Modi further said. He also expressed his confidence in the ability of the youth to elevate the country and highlighted India's achievements, positioning it as the world's fifth largest economy. "I am confident that your strength and your spirit of service will take the country and society to new heights. Your efforts and your hard work will hoist the flag of the power of young India all over the world. I request you to start using products that are locally manufactured, start promoting them and stand for made-in-India products. Together, we can build our country to be the manufacturing hub of the world," PM Modi said. (With inputs from agencies)

Atal Setu: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates country's longest sea bridge in Mumbai

<p lang="en-US">“I am still in awe of the stunning beauty of its islands and the incredible warmth of its people. For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list,” these were some of the words posted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Instagram along with the image of him enjoying the weather on the beach in the country's union territory of Lakshadweep on January 5.<br />
<br />
What appeared to the world just some images from an official visit made by the Indian prime minister soon led to a controversy and unexpected diplomatic row between India and Maldives.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>How did the social media war begin?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The social media war started after PM Modi shared images of walking along a beach and snorkelling in Lakshadweep, which is a southern Indian island chain in the Laccadive Sea, near the coast of Kerala.<br />
<br />
No mention or references to Maldives or any other island nation which is popular among tourists was made in the post, however, still, the archipelago's beautiful scenery appeared to offend the Maldivian politicians and government officials in some way and started a war on social media with Indian users.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Recently, I had the opportunity to be among the people of Lakshadweep. I am still in awe of the stunning beauty of its islands and the incredible warmth of its people. I had the opportunity to interact with people in Agatti, Bangaram and Kavaratti. I thank the people of the… <a href="https://t.co/tYW5Cvgi8N">pic.twitter.com/tYW5Cvgi8N</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1742831481775632552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>One apparent reason can also be that Maldives saw the posts as a threat to its own tourism, to which Indians are a massive contributor.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-jittery-as-lakshadweep-remains-top-trend-in-india-for-second-consecutive-day-677193">Maldives jittery as ‘Lakshadweep’ remains top trend in India for second consecutive day</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The Indian prime minister's post received some offensive, racist, xenophobic and derogatory comments from some important Maldivian social media users, in which Indians were targeted at large, as well as Modi.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Which Maldivian ministers took a dig at Modi?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Among the hate comments shared on social media&nbsp;was one by Maldives’ Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts Mariyam Shiuna, who wrote: “What a clown. The puppet of Israel Mr. Narendra diver with life jacket. #VisitMaldives #SunnySideOfLife”. Shiuna, in the now-deleted post, also compared India to cow dung.<br />
<br />
Shiuna's fellow deputy minister Malsha Shareef also posted similar derogatory comments against&nbsp;the tourism campaign for Lakshadweep and India.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, a member of Maldives' ruling Progressive Party Abdulla Mahzoom Majid also shared an image which was reported to be of Bora Bora islands in French Polynesia and claimed it to be an image of an island resort in the Maldives.<br />
<br />
“Sun set in Maldives. You won’t see this in Lakshadweep. #Visit Maldives. CC: @narendramodi (sic),” he wrote.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>How did Maldives react to the social media war?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The government of Maldives quickly distanced itself from their comments and the three ministers were immediately suspended. The Maldives government, in a statement, said that it was aware of “derogatory” comments made on social media but stressed the “opinions are personal” and do not represent its views.<br />
<br />
“The government believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners,” it added.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>How heavily does tourism in Maldives rely on India?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">As per the media reports, tourism in Maldives is heavily reliant on India and a major part of their income comes from the nation. In 2023, more than 209,000 trips were made by Indian tourists to Maldives which covers 11 per cent of its tourism market, as per the statistics released recently.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>How did Indians react to the hate remarks for Lakshadweep?</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">However, the derogatory remarks made by the Maldivian officials have angered many Indian holidaymakers, some of whom also shared screenshots of their cancellation of trips to Maldives on social media with the hashtag #BoycottMaldives.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Israel's desalination project to help India's Lakshadweep Islands</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israels-desalination-project-to-help-indias-lakshadweep-islands-678277/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">India's famous personalities, from Bollywood actors to cricket players, also appealed to fans to travel to local destinations instead with the hashtag #ChaloLakshadweep, which means&nbsp;“Let’s go to Lakshadweep”. Such social media campaigns led to a sudden inquiry about&nbsp;vacation visits to the archipelago.<br />
<br />
Bollywood actors like Akshay Kumar further called the remarks made by Maldivian officials “hateful and racist.” “We are good to our neighbours but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? I’ve visited the Maldives many times and always praised it, but dignity first. Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism,” he said.<br />
<br />
Indian travel sites, which included EaseMyTrip, also decided to boycott Maldives amid the growing tension. EaseMyTrip announced that it has suspended bookings for flights to Maldives.<br />
<br />
Taking to X, CEO and co-founder of EaseMyTrip Nishant Pitti said, “In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings.”<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, The Confederation of All India Traders, which is the country's one of the biggest trade bodies, also appealed to members to suspend their business with Maldives.<br />
<br />
In a statement, the group's Secretary-General Praveen Khandelwal said, “Until the Maldives tender an apology or ensure remedial measures, the trading community in India will refrain from doing business with them.”<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, in a post on X, called the remarks by officials “unacceptable” and added that the archipelago is committed to “fostering a positive and constructive dialogue with our partners.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


“I am still in awe of the stunning beauty of its islands and the incredible warmth of its people. For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list,” these were some of the words posted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Instagram along with the image of him enjoying the weather on the beach in the country's union territory of Lakshadweep on January 5.

“I am still in awe of the stunning beauty of its islands and the incredible warmth of its people. For those who wish to embrace the adventurer in them, Lakshadweep has to be on your list,” these were some of the words posted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Instagram along with the image of him enjoying the weather on the beach in the country's union territory of Lakshadweep on January 5. What appeared to the world just some images from an official visit made by the Indian prime minister soon led to a controversy and unexpected diplomatic row between India and Maldives. How did the social media war begin? The social media war started after PM Modi shared images of walking along a beach and snorkelling in Lakshadweep, which is a southern Indian island chain in the Laccadive Sea, near the coast of Kerala. No mention or references to Maldives or any other island nation which is popular among tourists was made in the post, however, still, the archipelago's beautiful scenery appeared to offend the Maldivian politicians and government officials in some way and started a war on social media with Indian users. Recently, I had the opportunity to be among the people of Lakshadweep. I am still in awe of the stunning beauty of its islands and the incredible warmth of its people. I had the opportunity to interact with people in Agatti, Bangaram and Kavaratti. I thank the people of the… pic.twitter.com/tYW5Cvgi8N — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 4, 2024 × One apparent reason can also be that Maldives saw the posts as a threat to its own tourism, to which Indians are a massive contributor. Also read: Maldives jittery as ‘Lakshadweep’ remains top trend in India for second consecutive day The Indian prime minister's post received some offensive, racist, xenophobic and derogatory comments from some important Maldivian social media users, in which Indians were targeted at large, as well as Modi. Which Maldivian ministers took a dig at Modi? Among the hate comments shared on social media was one by Maldives’ Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts Mariyam Shiuna, who wrote: “What a clown. The puppet of Israel Mr. Narendra diver with life jacket. #VisitMaldives #SunnySideOfLife”. Shiuna, in the now-deleted post, also compared India to cow dung. Shiuna's fellow deputy minister Malsha Shareef also posted similar derogatory comments against the tourism campaign for Lakshadweep and India. Meanwhile, a member of Maldives' ruling Progressive Party Abdulla Mahzoom Majid also shared an image which was reported to be of Bora Bora islands in French Polynesia and claimed it to be an image of an island resort in the Maldives. “Sun set in Maldives. You won’t see this in Lakshadweep. #Visit Maldives. CC: @narendramodi (sic),” he wrote. How did Maldives react to the social media war? The government of Maldives quickly distanced itself from their comments and the three ministers were immediately suspended. The Maldives government, in a statement, said that it was aware of “derogatory” comments made on social media but stressed the “opinions are personal” and do not represent its views. “The government believes that the freedom of expression should be exercised in a democratic and responsible manner, and in ways that do not spread hatred, negativity, and hinder close relationships between the Maldives and its international partners,” it added. How heavily does tourism in Maldives rely on India? As per the media reports, tourism in Maldives is heavily reliant on India and a major part of their income comes from the nation. In 2023, more than 209,000 trips were made by Indian tourists to Maldives which covers 11 per cent of its tourism market, as per the statistics released recently. How did Indians react to the hate remarks for Lakshadweep? However, the derogatory remarks made by the Maldivian officials have angered many Indian holidaymakers, some of whom also shared screenshots of their cancellation of trips to Maldives on social media with the hashtag #BoycottMaldives. Watch: Israel's desalination project to help India's Lakshadweep Islands India's famous personalities, from Bollywood actors to cricket players, also appealed to fans to travel to local destinations instead with the hashtag #ChaloLakshadweep, which means “Let’s go to Lakshadweep”. Such social media campaigns led to a sudden inquiry about vacation visits to the archipelago. Bollywood actors like Akshay Kumar further called the remarks made by Maldivian officials “hateful and racist.” “We are good to our neighbours but why should we tolerate such unprovoked hate? I’ve visited the Maldives many times and always praised it, but dignity first. Let us decide to #ExploreIndianIslands and support our own tourism,” he said. Indian travel sites, which included EaseMyTrip, also decided to boycott Maldives amid the growing tension. EaseMyTrip announced that it has suspended bookings for flights to Maldives. Taking to X, CEO and co-founder of EaseMyTrip Nishant Pitti said, “In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings.” Meanwhile, The Confederation of All India Traders, which is the country's one of the biggest trade bodies, also appealed to members to suspend their business with Maldives. In a statement, the group's Secretary-General Praveen Khandelwal said, “Until the Maldives tender an apology or ensure remedial measures, the trading community in India will refrain from doing business with them.” Meanwhile, Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, in a post on X, called the remarks by officials “unacceptable” and added that the archipelago is committed to “fostering a positive and constructive dialogue with our partners.” (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Why was Maldives triggered by Indian PM Modi snorkelling in Lakshadweep?

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan embarked on a roadshow in Ahmedabad this evening.</p>

<p>Before their roadshow, PM Modi welcomed the United Arab Emirates president on the latter's arrival at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport here.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome to India my brother, HH <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedBinZayed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MohamedBinZayed</a>. It’s an honour to have you visit us. <a href="https://t.co/Oj7zslR5oq">pic.twitter.com/Oj7zslR5oq</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1744709831976784035?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>After that, the two leaders began their roadshow on a three-kilometre-long route starting from the airport. It will culminate at the Indira Bridge, which connects Ahmedabad with Gandhinagar. From the bridge circle, both of them will head to their respective destinations in Gandhinagar, officials have said.</p>

<p>Watch it here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hold a roadshow in Ahmedabad, ahead of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit <a href="https://t.co/a6w27umeTJ">pic.twitter.com/a6w27umeTJ</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1744698490087960888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place and stages have been set up for cultural performances on the route that the two leaders will jointly cover.</p>

<p>PM Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre in Gandhinagar on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with the President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta and Mozambique President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, followed by a meeting with CEOs of top global corporations Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Around 3 pm, he inaugurated the Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show.</p>

<p>The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit is a global forum for business collaboration, knowledge sharing and strategic partnerships for inclusive growth and sustainable development, a statement issued by the PMO said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan embarked on a roadshow in Ahmedabad this evening. Before their roadshow, PM Modi welcomed the United Arab Emirates president on the latter's arrival at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport here.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan embarked on a roadshow in Ahmedabad this evening. Before their roadshow, PM Modi welcomed the United Arab Emirates president on the latter's arrival at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport here. Welcome to India my brother, HH @MohamedBinZayed. It’s an honour to have you visit us. pic.twitter.com/Oj7zslR5oq — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 9, 2024 × After that, the two leaders began their roadshow on a three-kilometre-long route starting from the airport. It will culminate at the Indira Bridge, which connects Ahmedabad with Gandhinagar. From the bridge circle, both of them will head to their respective destinations in Gandhinagar, officials have said. Watch it here: #WATCH | PM Modi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan hold a roadshow in Ahmedabad, ahead of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit pic.twitter.com/a6w27umeTJ — ANI (@ANI) January 9, 2024 × Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place and stages have been set up for cultural performances on the route that the two leaders will jointly cover. PM Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) at the Mahatma Mandir Convention Centre in Gandhinagar on Wednesday. Earlier in the day, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with the President of Timor-Leste Jose Ramos-Horta and Mozambique President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, followed by a meeting with CEOs of top global corporations Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Around 3 pm, he inaugurated the Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show. The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit is a global forum for business collaboration, knowledge sharing and strategic partnerships for inclusive growth and sustainable development, a statement issued by the PMO said.

Watch | Indian PM Modi holds roadshow with UAE President in Ahmedabad

Indian PM Modi and UAE President MBZ's grand roadshow dazzles Ahmedabad

<p>In the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that saw 40 Indian security personnel&nbsp;killed in 2019, then Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan tried having conversation with Indian PM Narendra Modi at midnight, but the latter refused, says a book written by former Indian high commissioner Ajay Bisaria, as reported by The Times of India.</p>

<p>The report, which describes Pakistan as "spooked" due to tough Indian stance, says that Pakistan's then-high commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood, who was in Islamabad at the time, rang up Bisaria at midnight on February 27, 2019. This was the first of the two nights Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was in Pakistani custody after a clash between Indian and Pakistani fighter jets. The Pakistani high commissioner was trying to diffuse the situation by trying to facilitate a conversation between Imran Khan and PM Modi. The latter reportedly 'declined' to have any such conversation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | PM Modi to inaugurate vibrant Gujarat Summit</strong></p>

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<p>What happened that night and in the following days has now been penned by Bisaria in his upcoming book <em>Anger Management: The Troubled Diplomatic Relationship Between India and Pakistan</em>.</p>

<p>"India's coercive diplomacy had been effective, India's expectations of Pakistan and world had been clear, backed by credible resolve to escalate the crisis," says Bisaria in his book as quoted by The Times Of India.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-see-india-as-a-powerful-it-centre-says-estonias-it-minister-to-wion-677937">'We see India as a powerful IT centre,' says Estonia's IT minister to WION</a></strong></p>

<p>In the book, Bisaria reportedly also says that India had missiles aimed at Pakistan after the horrific Pulwama terror attack. India had not said officially that such a situation was indeed present at the time.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/global-search-interest-for-indias-lakshadweep-skyrocket-after-pm-modis-visit-677924">Global search interest for India’s Lakshadweep witnesses record surge after PM Modi’s visit</a></strong></p>

<p>In his book, Bisaria has reportedly also said that India's deft political manoeuvres appeared to have such an effect that they stoked a rethink in Pakistani military and diplomatic apparatus about how effective is the decades-old policy of supporting proxy terror groups against India.</p>

<p>The strategy was developed by Pakistan after it realised that it could not win a straight military fight against India.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that saw 40 Indian security personnel killed in 2019, then Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan tried having conversation with Indian PM Narendra Modi at midnight, but the latter refused, says a book written by former Indian high commissioner Ajay Bisaria, as reported by The Times of India.

In the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack that saw 40 Indian security personnel killed in 2019, then Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan tried having conversation with Indian PM Narendra Modi at midnight, but the latter refused, says a book written by former Indian high commissioner Ajay Bisaria, as reported by The Times of India. The report, which describes Pakistan as "spooked" due to tough Indian stance, says that Pakistan's then-high commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood, who was in Islamabad at the time, rang up Bisaria at midnight on February 27, 2019. This was the first of the two nights Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman was in Pakistani custody after a clash between Indian and Pakistani fighter jets. The Pakistani high commissioner was trying to diffuse the situation by trying to facilitate a conversation between Imran Khan and PM Modi. The latter reportedly 'declined' to have any such conversation. Watch | PM Modi to inaugurate vibrant Gujarat Summit × What happened that night and in the following days has now been penned by Bisaria in his upcoming book Anger Management: The Troubled Diplomatic Relationship Between India and Pakistan. "India's coercive diplomacy had been effective, India's expectations of Pakistan and world had been clear, backed by credible resolve to escalate the crisis," says Bisaria in his book as quoted by The Times Of India. Also Read | 'We see India as a powerful IT centre,' says Estonia's IT minister to WION In the book, Bisaria reportedly also says that India had missiles aimed at Pakistan after the horrific Pulwama terror attack. India had not said officially that such a situation was indeed present at the time. Also Read | Global search interest for India’s Lakshadweep witnesses record surge after PM Modi’s visit In his book, Bisaria has reportedly also said that India's deft political manoeuvres appeared to have such an effect that they stoked a rethink in Pakistani military and diplomatic apparatus about how effective is the decades-old policy of supporting proxy terror groups against India. The strategy was developed by Pakistan after it realised that it could not win a straight military fight against India. (With inputs from agencies)

Imran Khan tried to talk to Modi post-Pulwama terror attack but Indian PM refused: Ex-envoy

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Wednesday (Jan 10) inaugurate the tenth edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit – 2024 at the Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Prime Minister Modi arrived in Ahmedabad on Monday and was received by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendera Patel along with Governor Acharya Devvrat, and state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President CR Patil.</p>

<p>The summit will take place from Wednesday to Friday and has 34 partner countries and 16 partner organisations. The theme of the summit is "Gateway to the future" to celebrate "20 years of Vibrant Gujarat as the summit of success."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It has been 20 years since the beginning of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. In these two decades, this initiative has been a trailblazer and trendsetter. It showed that thinking big is the first step to making a big impact. It showed how the state of India could institutionalize a way to connect Indian and international investors with the aspirations of our youth. It also set a national benchmark which many States successfully emulated, thus strengthening the Indian economy," Modi said, according to the <strong><a href="https://www.vibrantgujarat.com/">summit's website</a></strong>.</p>

<p>"As always, Vibrant Gujarat Summit continues to achieve new heights with the vision of a prosperous Gujarat for a self-reliant India," he added.</p>

<p>The summit will be attended by world leaders, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Indian PM Modi will hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, followed by a meeting with CEOs of top global corporations.</p>

<p>"On 10th January, at around 9.45 AM, the Prime Minister will inaugurate Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. Thereafter, he will hold a meeting with CEOs of top global corporations. Prime Minister will then travel to GIFT City where, at around 5.15 PM, he will interact with prominent business leaders in the Global FinTech Leadership Forum," a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said.</p>

<p>"The summit will host various events including seminars and conferences on globally relevant topics such as Industry 4.0, Technology and Innovation, Sustainable Manufacturing, Green Hydrogen, Electric Mobility and Renewable Energy and Transition towards Sustainability," the statement added.</p>

<p>"Companies will display products made from world-class state-of-the-art technology," it read.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Modi inaugurated the Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show.&nbsp;Many industries and business sectors will be showcased under one umbrella at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show, one of the largest trade shows in the world.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Wednesday (Jan 10) inaugurate the tenth edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit – 2024 at the Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Wednesday (Jan 10) inaugurate the tenth edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit – 2024 at the Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar. Prime Minister Modi arrived in Ahmedabad on Monday and was received by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendera Patel along with Governor Acharya Devvrat, and state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President CR Patil. The summit will take place from Wednesday to Friday and has 34 partner countries and 16 partner organisations. The theme of the summit is "Gateway to the future" to celebrate "20 years of Vibrant Gujarat as the summit of success." "It has been 20 years since the beginning of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit. In these two decades, this initiative has been a trailblazer and trendsetter. It showed that thinking big is the first step to making a big impact. It showed how the state of India could institutionalize a way to connect Indian and international investors with the aspirations of our youth. It also set a national benchmark which many States successfully emulated, thus strengthening the Indian economy," Modi said, according to the summit's website. "As always, Vibrant Gujarat Summit continues to achieve new heights with the vision of a prosperous Gujarat for a self-reliant India," he added. The summit will be attended by world leaders, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Indian PM Modi will hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, followed by a meeting with CEOs of top global corporations. "On 10th January, at around 9.45 AM, the Prime Minister will inaugurate Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. Thereafter, he will hold a meeting with CEOs of top global corporations. Prime Minister will then travel to GIFT City where, at around 5.15 PM, he will interact with prominent business leaders in the Global FinTech Leadership Forum," a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said. "The summit will host various events including seminars and conferences on globally relevant topics such as Industry 4.0, Technology and Innovation, Sustainable Manufacturing, Green Hydrogen, Electric Mobility and Renewable Energy and Transition towards Sustainability," the statement added. "Companies will display products made from world-class state-of-the-art technology," it read. On Tuesday, Modi inaugurated the Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show. Many industries and business sectors will be showcased under one umbrella at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show, one of the largest trade shows in the world.

Indian PM Modi to inaugurate 10th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit

<p>Amid the online campaign of boycott Maldives, flight and trip booking company EaseMyTrip in a significant step decided to suspend all Maldives flight bookings after derogatory remarks were made by some of Maldives' now suspended ministers against India following the recent visit to Lakshadweep by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>Indian online travel company EaseMyTrip's&nbsp;co-founder and chief executive officer (CEO) Nishant Pitti, standing in support of India, took to social media X and said, “In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings.”</p>

<p>The travel company, EaseMyTrip, went one step further and started a visit Lakshadweep campaign with the hashtag #ChaloLakshadweep.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In solidarity with our nation, <a href="https://twitter.com/EaseMyTrip?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EaseMyTrip</a> has suspended all Maldives flight bookings ✈️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TravelUpdate?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TravelUpdate</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SupportingNation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SupportingNation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LakshadweepTourism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LakshadweepTourism</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ExploreIndianlslands?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ExploreIndianlslands</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lakshadweep?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lakshadweep</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ExploreIndianIslands?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ExploreIndianIslands</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/kishanreddybjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kishanreddybjp</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JM_Scindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JM_Scindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/tourismgoi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tourismgoi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/incredibleindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@incredibleindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/wIyWGzyAZY">https://t.co/wIyWGzyAZY</a></p>
— Nishant Pitti (@nishantpitti) <a href="https://twitter.com/nishantpitti/status/1744080855100744082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>EaseMyTrip, which has its headquarters in New Delhi, was founded by Rikant Pitti, Prashant Pitti and Nishant Pitti in 2008.</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI, Prashant Pitti said, "Our company has recently taken the decision to not accept bookings for Maldives. The reason for this is the row over Maldives MP's post on PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep. We have taken this decision to establish 'nation first and business later'."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-president-departs-for-china-amid-diplomatic-row-with-india-677741">Maldives president departs for China amid diplomatic row with India</a><br />
<br />
Prashant Pitti, in his post dated January 4, wrote, "Water &amp; beaches of Lakshadweep are as good as Maldives/Seychelles We at @EaseMyTrip will come up with crazy special-offers to promote this pristine destination that our PM @narendramodi has recently visited!"</p>

<h2><strong>India-Maldives row and debate over tourism&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Amid row over tourism between Maldives and India, hashtag #BoycottMaldives started trending on social media platforms as many tourists began cancelling their scheduled vacations to the island nation.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, three deputy ministers of Maldives were suspended by the government on Sunday (Jan 7) for posting derogatory comments on social media against India's Prime Minister Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Maldives sacks 3 ministers for insulting comments on PM Modi&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>"The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives," stated the Maldives Foreign Ministry, while responding to the controversial social media posts.</p>

<p>Many prominent Indian personalities, including cricketer Hardik Pandya and actor Akshay Kumar, expressed dismay at the comments posted by the Maldivian officials. In an online campaign aimed at promoting local tourism, former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, actor Salman Khan and others appealed to people to visit their own islands and not to travel abroad.</p>

<h2><strong>Indian </strong>Chamber of Commerce, other&nbsp;<strong>travel companies call for boycott of Maldives</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Indian Chamber of Commerce on Monday (Jan 8), issued an “appeal to boycott Maldives”. Head of ICC’s aviation and tourism committee Subhash Goyal appealed to all Indian trade associations to “stop promoting Maldives in view of the anti-India feelings expressed by ministers of Maldives.”</p>

<p>“Please divert all such queries to Lakshadweep and Andaman &amp; Nicobar Islands which are even better than Maldives in many ways.. other destinations that can be promoted in the Indian Ocean region are Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Bali, Phuket etc,” he said. Goyal further “appealed” Indian carriers to suspend the flights towards Maldives and appealed Indian hotel companies to make more investment in Lakshadweep “for better returns.” Goyal’s STC Travels also stopped selling tickets and packages for Maldives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid the online campaign of boycott Maldives, flight and trip booking company EaseMyTrip in a significant step decided to suspend all Maldives flight bookings after derogatory remarks were made by some of Maldives' now suspended ministers against India following the recent visit to Lakshadweep by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Amid the online campaign of boycott Maldives, flight and trip booking company EaseMyTrip in a significant step decided to suspend all Maldives flight bookings after derogatory remarks were made by some of Maldives' now suspended ministers against India following the recent visit to Lakshadweep by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Indian online travel company EaseMyTrip's co-founder and chief executive officer (CEO) Nishant Pitti, standing in support of India, took to social media X and said, “In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings.” The travel company, EaseMyTrip, went one step further and started a visit Lakshadweep campaign with the hashtag #ChaloLakshadweep. In solidarity with our nation, @EaseMyTrip has suspended all Maldives flight bookings ✈️ #TravelUpdate #SupportingNation #LakshadweepTourism #ExploreIndianlslands #Lakshadweep#ExploreIndianIslands @kishanreddybjp @JM_Scindia @PMOIndia @tourismgoi @narendramodi @incredibleindia https://t.co/wIyWGzyAZY — Nishant Pitti (@nishantpitti) January 7, 2024 × EaseMyTrip, which has its headquarters in New Delhi, was founded by Rikant Pitti, Prashant Pitti and Nishant Pitti in 2008. Speaking to ANI, Prashant Pitti said, "Our company has recently taken the decision to not accept bookings for Maldives. The reason for this is the row over Maldives MP's post on PM Modi's visit to Lakshadweep. We have taken this decision to establish 'nation first and business later'." Also read: Maldives president departs for China amid diplomatic row with India Prashant Pitti, in his post dated January 4, wrote, "Water & beaches of Lakshadweep are as good as Maldives/Seychelles We at @EaseMyTrip will come up with crazy special-offers to promote this pristine destination that our PM @narendramodi has recently visited!" India-Maldives row and debate over tourism Amid row over tourism between Maldives and India, hashtag #BoycottMaldives started trending on social media platforms as many tourists began cancelling their scheduled vacations to the island nation. Meanwhile, three deputy ministers of Maldives were suspended by the government on Sunday (Jan 7) for posting derogatory comments on social media against India's Prime Minister Modi. Watch: Maldives sacks 3 ministers for insulting comments on PM Modi "The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives," stated the Maldives Foreign Ministry, while responding to the controversial social media posts. Many prominent Indian personalities, including cricketer Hardik Pandya and actor Akshay Kumar, expressed dismay at the comments posted by the Maldivian officials. In an online campaign aimed at promoting local tourism, former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, actor Salman Khan and others appealed to people to visit their own islands and not to travel abroad. Indian Chamber of Commerce, other travel companies call for boycott of Maldives Meanwhile, the Indian Chamber of Commerce on Monday (Jan 8), issued an “appeal to boycott Maldives”. Head of ICC’s aviation and tourism committee Subhash Goyal appealed to all Indian trade associations to “stop promoting Maldives in view of the anti-India feelings expressed by ministers of Maldives.” “Please divert all such queries to Lakshadweep and Andaman & Nicobar Islands which are even better than Maldives in many ways.. other destinations that can be promoted in the Indian Ocean region are Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Bali, Phuket etc,” he said. Goyal further “appealed” Indian carriers to suspend the flights towards Maldives and appealed Indian hotel companies to make more investment in Lakshadweep “for better returns.” Goyal’s STC Travels also stopped selling tickets and packages for Maldives. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian travel companies call for boycott of Maldives after row over scornful remarks on PM Modi

<p>An Indian student from eastern India's Jharkhand state reportedly died in Italy due to reasons that could not be immediately ascertained.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report in India Today, Ram Raut from Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district, about 1500 km east of New Delhi, died on January 2, 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ram Raut's death in Italy: What do we know?</strong></h2>

<p>According to a police statement cited by India Today, Raut was enrolled in a University in Italy for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) course.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India-Italy move forward in ‘Melodi’ era with approval of key migration and mobility pact</strong></p>

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<p>The incident reportedly came to light when Raut's parents called him to extend greetings on New Year's on January 1. Raut reportedly did not pick up the call. When the West Singhbhum-based parents&nbsp;contacted the owner of their son's rented accommodation, they were informed that Ram had been found dead in the washroom of another house.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What next?</strong></h2>

<p>Ram Raut's family has approached senior government officials in Jharkhand to bring their son's body back to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The India Today report cited West Singhbhum's Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal as saying that he had received information about Ram Raut's death. The Home Department as well as the Migration cell of Jharkhand for necessary action.</p>

<p>The developments in the case are currently being monitored by Jharkhand's state authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to government data, a total of 5,897 Indian students were present in Italy in 2022 on study visas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-bittersweet-melodi-in-india-italy-ties-during-swaraj-jaishankar-years-667672">Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years</a></strong></p>

<p>As per an agreement signed between the governments of Italy and India, the Indian students hoping to stay in Italy after the completion of their degrees will now be allowed to stay in the country for an additional 12 months. The India-Italy ties stand elevated to the level of Strategic Partnership.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Indian student from eastern India's Jharkhand state reportedly died in Italy due to reasons that could not be immediately ascertained. According to a report in India Today, Ram Raut from Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district, about 1500 km east of New Delhi, died on January 2, 2024.

An Indian student from eastern India's Jharkhand state reportedly died in Italy due to reasons that could not be immediately ascertained. According to a report in India Today, Ram Raut from Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district, about 1500 km east of New Delhi, died on January 2, 2024. Ram Raut's death in Italy: What do we know? According to a police statement cited by India Today, Raut was enrolled in a University in Italy for a Master of Business Administration (MBA) course. Also watch | India-Italy move forward in ‘Melodi’ era with approval of key migration and mobility pact × The incident reportedly came to light when Raut's parents called him to extend greetings on New Year's on January 1. Raut reportedly did not pick up the call. When the West Singhbhum-based parents contacted the owner of their son's rented accommodation, they were informed that Ram had been found dead in the washroom of another house. What next? Ram Raut's family has approached senior government officials in Jharkhand to bring their son's body back to India. The India Today report cited West Singhbhum's Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal as saying that he had received information about Ram Raut's death. The Home Department as well as the Migration cell of Jharkhand for necessary action. The developments in the case are currently being monitored by Jharkhand's state authorities. According to government data, a total of 5,897 Indian students were present in Italy in 2022 on study visas. Also read | Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years As per an agreement signed between the governments of Italy and India, the Indian students hoping to stay in Italy after the completion of their degrees will now be allowed to stay in the country for an additional 12 months. The India-Italy ties stand elevated to the level of Strategic Partnership. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian student found dead in Italy, parents seek govt help to bring body back home

<p>An article in a prominent state-run Chinese media outlet, Global Times, made a rare admission by praising India and asserting that the nation has become more strategically confident and proactive in creating and developing a "Bharat narrative".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The article, published on Tuesday (Jan 2), highlights India's accomplishments in the past few years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. It is contrary to what Chinese media usually runs - propaganda and fake narratives against India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The article, titled, "What I feel about the ‘Bharat narrative’ in India", is penned by Zhang Jiadong, who is the director of the Center for South Asian Studies at Fudan University, Shanghai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-indians-in-canada-receiving-extortion-calls-to-qatar-case-here-are-key-takeaways-from-mea-briefing-676629">Indians in Canada receiving extortion calls to Qatar case, here are key takeaways from MEA briefing</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The article chalks out India's stunning economic growth, its attitude towards international relations (including China), urban governance, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For example, when discussing the trade imbalance between China and India, Indian representatives earlier used to primarily focus on China's measures to reduce the trade imbalance. But now they are placing more emphasis on India's export potential," Zhang said in the article.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the political and cultural spheres, India has moved from emphasising its democratic consensus with the West to highlighting the 'Indian feature' of democratic politics. Currently, there is even more emphasis on the Indian origins of democratic politics," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-congress-party-launches-bharat-jodo-nyay-yatra-2024-676630">Congress party launches 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra 2024'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The author wrote in the widely circulated article that the shift reflects India's ambition to escape its historical colonial shadow and act as a "world mentor", both politically and culturally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The author hailed India's foreign policy strategy under PM Modi as he emphasised upon the country's multi-alignment approach and strengthening ties with major global powers, including the United States, and Japan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He pointed out India's strong ties&nbsp;with the mention of New Delhi's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict as PM Modi has already said that this is "not the era of war".&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>'India has become a new geopolitical factor that many countries need to consider'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>"Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed power, he has advocated for a multi-alignment strategy, promoting India's relations with the US, Japan, Russia and other countries and regional organisations," Zhang said in the article.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India has always considered itself a world power. However, it has only been less than 10 years since India shifted from multi-balancing to multi-alignment, and now it is rapidly transforming toward a strategy of becoming a pole in the multipolar world. The speed of such changes is rarely seen in the history of international relations," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It appears that a transformed, stronger, and more assertive India has become a new geopolitical factor that many countries need to consider," the article added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


An article in a prominent state-run Chinese media outlet, Global Times, made a rare admission by praising India and asserting that the nation has become more strategically confident and proactive in creating and developing a "Bharat narrative".

An article in a prominent state-run Chinese media outlet, Global Times, made a rare admission by praising India and asserting that the nation has become more strategically confident and proactive in creating and developing a "Bharat narrative". The article, published on Tuesday (Jan 2), highlights India's accomplishments in the past few years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government. It is contrary to what Chinese media usually runs - propaganda and fake narratives against India. The article, titled, "What I feel about the ‘Bharat narrative’ in India", is penned by Zhang Jiadong, who is the director of the Center for South Asian Studies at Fudan University, Shanghai. Also read: Indians in Canada receiving extortion calls to Qatar case, here are key takeaways from MEA briefing The article chalks out India's stunning economic growth, its attitude towards international relations (including China), urban governance, and more. "For example, when discussing the trade imbalance between China and India, Indian representatives earlier used to primarily focus on China's measures to reduce the trade imbalance. But now they are placing more emphasis on India's export potential," Zhang said in the article. "In the political and cultural spheres, India has moved from emphasising its democratic consensus with the West to highlighting the 'Indian feature' of democratic politics. Currently, there is even more emphasis on the Indian origins of democratic politics," he added. Also read: Congress party launches 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra 2024' The author wrote in the widely circulated article that the shift reflects India's ambition to escape its historical colonial shadow and act as a "world mentor", both politically and culturally. The author hailed India's foreign policy strategy under PM Modi as he emphasised upon the country's multi-alignment approach and strengthening ties with major global powers, including the United States, and Japan. He pointed out India's strong ties with the mention of New Delhi's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict as PM Modi has already said that this is "not the era of war". × 'India has become a new geopolitical factor that many countries need to consider' "Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed power, he has advocated for a multi-alignment strategy, promoting India's relations with the US, Japan, Russia and other countries and regional organisations," Zhang said in the article. "India has always considered itself a world power. However, it has only been less than 10 years since India shifted from multi-balancing to multi-alignment, and now it is rapidly transforming toward a strategy of becoming a pole in the multipolar world. The speed of such changes is rarely seen in the history of international relations," he said. "It appears that a transformed, stronger, and more assertive India has become a new geopolitical factor that many countries need to consider," the article added. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese state media praises 'major power' India and its achievements under PM Modi

<p>The year-end pictures released by the office of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had the viral 'Melodi' selfie clicked by Italy&nbsp;Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in the spotlight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The selfie, clicked during the COP28 summit in Dubai, became the most viral political selfie of all time.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Year end pictures by PMO show Italian PM Giorgia Meloni taking a selfie with PM Modi at COP28 Summit. Arguably, the most viral selfie of all time with " <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melodi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melodi</a>".<br />
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PS: Italy hosts G7 next year, &amp; India, a regular invitee, is expected to be included <a href="https://t.co/OeUJZszlrS">pic.twitter.com/OeUJZszlrS</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1741384610716725645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Italy is set to host the G7 summit next year and India, a regular invitee, is most likely to be included.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The 'melodi' selfie: Viral moment of 2023</strong></h2>

<p>On December 2, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Italian counterpart, Georgia Meloni, on the sidelines of the COP28 climate action summit in Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the meeting, Meloni posted a selfie with Modi&nbsp;with the hashtag Melodi, a fusion of the last names of the two leaders.</p>

<p>"Good friends at COP28," the Italian far-right leader captioned the photo. Modi reposted it on X, formerly Twitter, and wrote, "Meeting friends is always a delight." The photo soon went viral and the hashtag Melodi was trending on the internet.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Which other pictures made it to PMO's 'year-end' highlights?</strong></h2>

<p>Among 23 exclusive photos of PM Modi released by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) from the year 2023, four are of his meetings with world leaders including the US President Joe Biden in Delhi, French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, and having 'paan' with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Delhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">More pictures released by PMO as year end 2023 pics: <a href="https://t.co/IVo1AbEM9F">pic.twitter.com/IVo1AbEM9F</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1741396575413526938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Besides, there is a&nbsp;picture&nbsp;of PM Modi at the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi representing Bharat.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Among the 23 pictures released by PMO as key highlights of the year, one is of PM Modi at the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi representing Bharat <a href="https://t.co/piVIm3cyJo">https://t.co/piVIm3cyJo</a> <a href="https://t.co/oMDi47MvxR">pic.twitter.com/oMDi47MvxR</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1741387156395118623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In a year when Moscow dodged an unprecedented mutiny bullet, Washington and Beijing wrangled with a consequential geo-economic confrontation over the development of semiconductors, the Israel-Palestine conflict entered its worst phase in decades — New Delhi's rising economic clout coincided with its presidency of the grouping of world's wealthiest economies: G20.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-in-2023-the-year-when-new-delhi-proved-sceptics-wrong-673185">The Capitals in 2023: The year when New Delhi proved sceptics wrong</a></strong></p>

<p>But throughout 2023, New Delhi continued its emergence as a capital of significance.&nbsp;</p>


The year-end pictures released by the office of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had the viral 'Melodi' selfie clicked by Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in the spotlight.

The year-end pictures released by the office of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had the viral 'Melodi' selfie clicked by Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in the spotlight. The selfie, clicked during the COP28 summit in Dubai, became the most viral political selfie of all time. Year end pictures by PMO show Italian PM Giorgia Meloni taking a selfie with PM Modi at COP28 Summit. Arguably, the most viral selfie of all time with " #Melodi". PS: Italy hosts G7 next year, & India, a regular invitee, is expected to be included pic.twitter.com/OeUJZszlrS — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 31, 2023 × Italy is set to host the G7 summit next year and India, a regular invitee, is most likely to be included. The 'melodi' selfie: Viral moment of 2023 On December 2, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Italian counterpart, Georgia Meloni, on the sidelines of the COP28 climate action summit in Dubai. After the meeting, Meloni posted a selfie with Modi with the hashtag Melodi, a fusion of the last names of the two leaders. "Good friends at COP28," the Italian far-right leader captioned the photo. Modi reposted it on X, formerly Twitter, and wrote, "Meeting friends is always a delight." The photo soon went viral and the hashtag Melodi was trending on the internet. Which other pictures made it to PMO's 'year-end' highlights? Among 23 exclusive photos of PM Modi released by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) from the year 2023, four are of his meetings with world leaders including the US President Joe Biden in Delhi, French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, and having 'paan' with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Delhi. More pictures released by PMO as year end 2023 pics: pic.twitter.com/IVo1AbEM9F — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 31, 2023 × Besides, there is a picture of PM Modi at the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi representing Bharat. Among the 23 pictures released by PMO as key highlights of the year, one is of PM Modi at the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi representing Bharat https://t.co/piVIm3cyJo pic.twitter.com/oMDi47MvxR — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 31, 2023 × In a year when Moscow dodged an unprecedented mutiny bullet, Washington and Beijing wrangled with a consequential geo-economic confrontation over the development of semiconductors, the Israel-Palestine conflict entered its worst phase in decades — New Delhi's rising economic clout coincided with its presidency of the grouping of world's wealthiest economies: G20. Also read | The Capitals in 2023: The year when New Delhi proved sceptics wrong But throughout 2023, New Delhi continued its emergence as a capital of significance.

Narendra Modi's 2023: G20 summit, 'Melodi' selfie feature in year-end highlights of Indian PM

<p>In his annual&nbsp;New Year address to the Indian leadership, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised New Delhi's chairmanship of the G20, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summits this year. India led both groupings and organised the in-person G20 summit in Delhi in September and the virtual SCO summit in July.</p>

<p>A Kremlin statement said Vladimir Putin praised the results of India’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and the G20 and stressed&nbsp;"his conviction that Moscow and New Delhi will continue to develop multifaceted bilateral ties and effectively coordinate efforts to strengthen security and stability at the regional and global levels".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-delhi-delivers-as-the-voice-of-global-south-634649">The Capitals: Delhi delivers as the voice of Global South</a></strong></p>

<p>In the messages addressed to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and PM Narendra Modi, President Putin noted that "despite the difficult international situation" the "special and privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India continues to develop dynamically".</p>

<p>The statement said that the Russian President outlined that in the "outgoing year, trade has been growing at an exceptionally high rate and joint projects in various areas have been successfully implemented."</p>

<p>This year witnessed several high-level exchanges between Moscow and New Delhi.</p>

<p>India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, was on a five-day visit to Russia last week.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;SCO summit 2023: India holds chair of G20 &amp; SCO this year | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>During the visit, he met with the Russian President and conducted discussions with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Trade Minister Denis Manturov. Notably, three pivotal documents concerning the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plants, a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, and a Protocol on Foreign Office Consultations were signed.</p>

<p>President Putin extended an invitation to Indian PM Modi to visit Russia in 2024 during EAM's meeting with him. It is noteworthy that Russia will assume the BRICS Presidency on January 1st, hosting the summit in Kazan. Additionally, 2023 witnessed the visit of Russian FM Lavrov, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, among others, to India.</p>

<p>This is Putin's annual message he sends out to leaders of select countries. The list of countries this year include, Azerbaijan ,Armenia, Belarus, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Cuba, Hungary, India, Lao, Nicaragua, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Serbia, South Africa, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Türkiye, Venezuela, Vietnam, Uzbekistan. He also sent out messages to a few former foreign heads of state and government, which include Armenia's Robert Kocharyan &amp; Serzh Sargsyan, Kazakhstan's Nursultan Nazarbayev, France's Nicolas Sarkozy, Germany's Gerhard Schröder.</p>


In his annual New Year address to the Indian leadership, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised New Delhi's chairmanship of the G20, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summits this year.

In his annual New Year address to the Indian leadership, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised New Delhi's chairmanship of the G20, and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summits this year. India led both groupings and organised the in-person G20 summit in Delhi in September and the virtual SCO summit in July. A Kremlin statement said Vladimir Putin praised the results of India’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and the G20 and stressed "his conviction that Moscow and New Delhi will continue to develop multifaceted bilateral ties and effectively coordinate efforts to strengthen security and stability at the regional and global levels". Also read | The Capitals: Delhi delivers as the voice of Global South In the messages addressed to Indian President Droupadi Murmu and PM Narendra Modi, President Putin noted that "despite the difficult international situation" the "special and privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India continues to develop dynamically". The statement said that the Russian President outlined that in the "outgoing year, trade has been growing at an exceptionally high rate and joint projects in various areas have been successfully implemented." This year witnessed several high-level exchanges between Moscow and New Delhi. India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, was on a five-day visit to Russia last week. Also watch | SCO summit 2023: India holds chair of G20 & SCO this year | World News | WION × During the visit, he met with the Russian President and conducted discussions with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Trade Minister Denis Manturov. Notably, three pivotal documents concerning the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plants, a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in pharmaceuticals and healthcare, and a Protocol on Foreign Office Consultations were signed. President Putin extended an invitation to Indian PM Modi to visit Russia in 2024 during EAM's meeting with him. It is noteworthy that Russia will assume the BRICS Presidency on January 1st, hosting the summit in Kazan. Additionally, 2023 witnessed the visit of Russian FM Lavrov, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, among others, to India. This is Putin's annual message he sends out to leaders of select countries. The list of countries this year include, Azerbaijan ,Armenia, Belarus, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Cuba, Hungary, India, Lao, Nicaragua, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Serbia, South Africa, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Türkiye, Venezuela, Vietnam, Uzbekistan. He also sent out messages to a few former foreign heads of state and government, which include Armenia's Robert Kocharyan & Serzh Sargsyan, Kazakhstan's Nursultan Nazarbayev, France's Nicolas Sarkozy, Germany's Gerhard Schröder.

In New Year greetings to PM Modi, Putin lauds India’s presidency of G20, SCO

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