<p>Chinese leader Xi Jinping was seen doing away with his pursed lips and feigned smile twice this year. First in July, when a 100-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/dubious-strategist-ruthless-diplomat-south-asian-loser-kissingers-bull-run-was-stopped-by-indian-defiance-664604">Henry Kissinger</a>, the controversial US foreign policy wizard and architect of US-China ties visited Beijing. Secondly, in October during a summit in Beijing to celebrate 10 years of the Belt and Road Initiative, China's ambitious transcontinental trade project mired in accusations of exploitative practices.</p>

<p>Xi frequently broke into an uncharacteristic chuckle and threw expressions of diplomatic affection with Kissinger, who is credited with bringing China out of isolation in the 1970s.&nbsp;<img alt="China's President Xi Jinping (R) speaks with former US secretary of state Henry Kissinger" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2728c580-b473-483f-90a5-855ee278e27a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-29T213550.658.png" /></p>

<p><em>China's President Xi Jinping with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger during a meeting in Beijing on July 20, 2023 | AFP</em></p>

<p>But while a smiling Xi was "very glad to see" Kissinger in July 2023, the visit came in the backdrop of the 21st-century contest between Washington and Beijing for semiconductors,&nbsp;dubbed the 'Chip Wars'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weeks before Kissinger's Beijing visit, in June, the United States along with the Netherlands gave China's chipmaking capabilities a setback by imposing more restrictions on the sales of chipmaking equipment to the Chinese market. The measures were part of a broader strategy to prevent China from leveraging foreign technology to enhance its military capabilities.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chip-war-intensifies-us-and-netherlands-impose-stricter-controls-on-chipmaking-equipment-sales-to-china-610417">Chip War Intensifies: U.S. and Netherlands impose stricter controls on chipmaking equipment sales to China</a></strong></p>

<p>Then in July, just two days after Kissinger's Beijing visit, the Biden administration gave another blow to China's chipmaking ambitions as a consensus emerged on the need for '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-chip-war-intensify-amid-calls-for-small-yard-high-fence-approach-to-contain-china-618392">small yard, high fence</a>' restrictions on chip exports.</p>

<p>Beijing's chipmaking ambitions are intricately linked with a wish to enmesh the world in Chinese-built infrastructure that includes not just roads and bridges but network equipment as well.</p>

<p>"We must march out, deepen international internet exchange and collaboration, and vigorously participate in the construction of 'One Belt, One Road'," Xi had declared in April 2016, three years after the Belt and Road Initiative was first launched.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The project originally devised to link East Asia and Europe through physical infrastructure, &nbsp;has since expanded to Africa, Oceania, and Latin America. But across continents, skepticism has replaced initial euphoria as there remains minimal accrual of benefits that Beijing initially promised.&nbsp;<img alt="Chinese leader Xi Jinping" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f5860f0b-c8b3-4628-a3b7-2b28179f9609" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-29T214253.154.png" /></p>

<p><em>Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the opening ceremony of a summit in Beijing to celebrate the Belt and Road Initiative on October 18, 2023 | Reuters</em></p>

<p>"The opaque nature of contracts did not allow for public scrutiny," Commodore R.S. Vasan (Retd.), Director General of Chennai Centre of China Studies told WION.</p>

<p>And this &nbsp;December, Italy under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni notified Beijing that it was ceasing its participation in the BRI ahead of a deadline at the year's end.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Losing Momentum: China’s belt &amp; road initiative</strong></p>

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<p>Italy was the only major Western nation to sign up for the BRI in 2019, a move heavily criticised by the West at the time.</p>

<p>Washington calls BRI an example of Beijing's "debt-trap diplomacy", as it involves unsustainably large projects that countries are unable to finance, giving Beijing leverage for its aims. India has denounced the project as it passes through parts of Jammu and Kashmir currently under illegal occupation by Pakistan and China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, only a fraction of the over&nbsp;$22 billion worth of investment in Italy promised by Xi in 2019 has materialised, according to an official readout from Italy's government.</p>

<p>Italian exports to China were worth $18.13bn last year, compared to $14.37bn in 2019. By contrast, Chinese exports to Italy rose to $63.57bn from $35bn over the same period, which European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen cited as an example of "clear imbalances and differences" that must be addressed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From all counts it is a reality check for China as well as the countries who are part of the BRI," Commodore Vasan added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The realisation that the funding benefited only the Chinese companies and hardly contributed to job generation in the destination countries is out there as the year closes," he said.</p>

<p>Italy under Meloni was wise to see the pitfalls of BRI and pulled out this year. But several countries are already indebted to China, possibly at a point of no return.</p>

<p>Did 2023 mark&nbsp;the beginning of the end of Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative? The world will know soon enough.&nbsp;</p>


Chinese leader Xi Jinping was seen doing away with his pursed lips and feigned smile twice this year. First in July, when a 100-year-old Henry Kissinger, the controversial US foreign policy wizard and architect of US-China ties visited Beijing.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping was seen doing away with his pursed lips and feigned smile twice this year. First in July, when a 100-year-old Henry Kissinger, the controversial US foreign policy wizard and architect of US-China ties visited Beijing. Secondly, in October during a summit in Beijing to celebrate 10 years of the Belt and Road Initiative, China's ambitious transcontinental trade project mired in accusations of exploitative practices. Xi frequently broke into an uncharacteristic chuckle and threw expressions of diplomatic affection with Kissinger, who is credited with bringing China out of isolation in the 1970s. China's President Xi Jinping with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger during a meeting in Beijing on July 20, 2023 | AFP But while a smiling Xi was "very glad to see" Kissinger in July 2023, the visit came in the backdrop of the 21st-century contest between Washington and Beijing for semiconductors, dubbed the 'Chip Wars'. Weeks before Kissinger's Beijing visit, in June, the United States along with the Netherlands gave China's chipmaking capabilities a setback by imposing more restrictions on the sales of chipmaking equipment to the Chinese market. The measures were part of a broader strategy to prevent China from leveraging foreign technology to enhance its military capabilities. Also read | Chip War Intensifies: U.S. and Netherlands impose stricter controls on chipmaking equipment sales to China Then in July, just two days after Kissinger's Beijing visit, the Biden administration gave another blow to China's chipmaking ambitions as a consensus emerged on the need for 'small yard, high fence' restrictions on chip exports. Beijing's chipmaking ambitions are intricately linked with a wish to enmesh the world in Chinese-built infrastructure that includes not just roads and bridges but network equipment as well. "We must march out, deepen international internet exchange and collaboration, and vigorously participate in the construction of 'One Belt, One Road'," Xi had declared in April 2016, three years after the Belt and Road Initiative was first launched. The project originally devised to link East Asia and Europe through physical infrastructure, has since expanded to Africa, Oceania, and Latin America. But across continents, skepticism has replaced initial euphoria as there remains minimal accrual of benefits that Beijing initially promised. Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the opening ceremony of a summit in Beijing to celebrate the Belt and Road Initiative on October 18, 2023 | Reuters "The opaque nature of contracts did not allow for public scrutiny," Commodore R.S. Vasan (Retd.), Director General of Chennai Centre of China Studies told WION. And this December, Italy under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni notified Beijing that it was ceasing its participation in the BRI ahead of a deadline at the year's end. Also watch | Losing Momentum: China’s belt & road initiative × Italy was the only major Western nation to sign up for the BRI in 2019, a move heavily criticised by the West at the time. Washington calls BRI an example of Beijing's "debt-trap diplomacy", as it involves unsustainably large projects that countries are unable to finance, giving Beijing leverage for its aims. India has denounced the project as it passes through parts of Jammu and Kashmir currently under illegal occupation by Pakistan and China. Besides, only a fraction of the over $22 billion worth of investment in Italy promised by Xi in 2019 has materialised, according to an official readout from Italy's government. Italian exports to China were worth $18.13bn last year, compared to $14.37bn in 2019. By contrast, Chinese exports to Italy rose to $63.57bn from $35bn over the same period, which European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen cited as an example of "clear imbalances and differences" that must be addressed. "From all counts it is a reality check for China as well as the countries who are part of the BRI," Commodore Vasan added. "The realisation that the funding benefited only the Chinese companies and hardly contributed to job generation in the destination countries is out there as the year closes," he said. Italy under Meloni was wise to see the pitfalls of BRI and pulled out this year. But several countries are already indebted to China, possibly at a point of no return. Did 2023 mark the beginning of the end of Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative? The world will know soon enough.

Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check'

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the temple town of Ayodhya in northern India and inaugurated an airport and a revamped railway station. Russia claimed a major strike by Ukraine that stoked Moscow to call for a UN Security Council meeting. Besides, today was Rudyard Kipling's 158th birth anniversary.</p>

<p><strong>Click here to read more:</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-in-ayodhya-pitches-indias-cultural-heritage-as-base-for-economic-prosperity-675097"><strong>Modi in Ayodhya pitches India’s rich cultural heritage as foundation for economic prosperity</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402671-untitled-design-2023-12-30t200031925.png?imwidth=3840" /><br />
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited&nbsp;the holy town of Ayodhya on&nbsp;Saturday (Dec 30) to open fresh transport links in a 'historic'&nbsp;massive revamp of Hinduism's major pilgrimage centre.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-strike-kills-at-least-14-in-city-of-belgorod-says-russia-675107"><strong>Ukrainian strike kills at least 14 in city of Belgorod, says Russia</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402679-succession-2023-12-30t215052985.jpg?imwidth=3840" /><br />
A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30).</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khans-election-nomination-rejected-from-two-constituencies-675068">Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies</a></strong></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/09/21/381162-new-wion-2023-09-21t234055239.jpg?imwidth=3840" /><br />
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's nomination was rejected from the two National Assembly constituencies in Mianwali and Lahore. The elections in Pakistan are scheduled to be held in February.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-eam-jaishankar-to-represent-india-at-uganda-nam-summit-in-january-2024-675103"><strong>Exclusive: EAM Jaishankar to represent India at Uganda NAM Summit in January 2024</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402677-untitled-design-2023-12-30t214815181.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar is set to represent India at the upcoming Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda's capital Kampala next month. Scheduled from January 17th to 20th, 2024, the 19th edition of the NAM summit will be preceded by a crucial foreign ministerial meeting from 15th January.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-new-year-greetings-to-prez-murmu-pm-modi-putin-lauds-indias-g20-sco-presidency-675101"><strong>In New Year greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi, Putin lauds India’s G20, SCO presidency</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402676-untitled-design-2023-12-30t205015238.png?imwidth=3840" /><br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-first-flight-to-indias-temple-city-of-ayodhya-indigo-captains-welcome-passengers-cut-cake-675072"><strong>On first flight to India’s temple city of Ayodhya, IndiGo captain greets passengers with ‘Jai Shree Ram’</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402658-untitled-design-2023-12-30t182920936.png?imwidth=3840" /><br />
On the first flight which was bound for Ayodhya's newly-inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport from India's capital New Delhi, a special announcement was made by the captain for the passengers.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flooded-tunnel-near-london-disrupts-eurostar-train-services-675095"><strong>Flooded tunnels near London disrupt Eurostar train services, thousands of passengers stranded</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402672-succession-2023-12-30t200225178.jpg?imwidth=3840" /><br />
<br />
Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-all-rounder-shardul-thakur-injures-shoulder-during-net-session-675082"><strong>India all-rounder Shardul Thakur</strong></a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-all-rounder-shardul-thakur-injures-shoulder-during-net-session-675082"><strong> injures shoulder during net session</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402666-untitled-design-2023-12-30t192040658.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>India all-rounder Shardul Thakur was injured on Saturday, December 30 while batting during a net session. Thakur was hit on shoulder when he was taking throwdowns and the extent of seriousness of the injury is yet to be determined. The all-rounder will undergo scans if required. The developments were first reported by the news agency PTI.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-rudyard-kipling-a-literary-colossus-built-on-colonial-sand-674974"><strong>Rudyard Kipling, a literary colossus built on colonial sand</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/30/402594-rudyard-kipling.png?imwidth=3840" /><br />
Today marks the 158th&nbsp;anniversary of Rudyard Kipling's birth. The occasion prompts a comprehensive reflection on his complex legacy, particularly for those who, like me, grew up enchanted by his stories and discovered the disturbing undercurrents of his beliefs much later. Born on December 30, 1865, in Bombay, British India, Kipling's literary contributions are undeniably significant, yet the shadows of his colonial-era prejudices cast a disquieting pall over his work.</p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the temple town of Ayodhya in northern India and inaugurated an airport and a revamped railway station. Russia claimed a major strike by Ukraine that stoked Moscow to call for a UN Security Council meeting.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the temple town of Ayodhya in northern India and inaugurated an airport and a revamped railway station. Russia claimed a major strike by Ukraine that stoked Moscow to call for a UN Security Council meeting. Besides, today was Rudyard Kipling's 158th birth anniversary. Click here to read more: Modi in Ayodhya pitches India’s rich cultural heritage as foundation for economic prosperity Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the holy town of Ayodhya on Saturday (Dec 30) to open fresh transport links in a 'historic' massive revamp of Hinduism's major pilgrimage centre. Ukrainian strike kills at least 14 in city of Belgorod, says Russia A deadly missile strike by Ukraine on the Russian city of Belgorod claimed the lives of at least 14 people and wounded 108 others, Russia's emergencies ministry said Saturday (Dec 30). Pakistan: Imran Khan’s election nomination rejected from two constituencies Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's nomination was rejected from the two National Assembly constituencies in Mianwali and Lahore. The elections in Pakistan are scheduled to be held in February. Exclusive: EAM Jaishankar to represent India at Uganda NAM Summit in January 2024 India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar is set to represent India at the upcoming Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda's capital Kampala next month. Scheduled from January 17th to 20th, 2024, the 19th edition of the NAM summit will be preceded by a crucial foreign ministerial meeting from 15th January. In New Year greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi, Putin lauds India’s G20, SCO presidency 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. On first flight to India’s temple city of Ayodhya, IndiGo captain greets passengers with ‘Jai Shree Ram’ On the first flight which was bound for Ayodhya's newly-inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport from India's capital New Delhi, a special announcement was made by the captain for the passengers. Flooded tunnels near London disrupt Eurostar train services, thousands of passengers stranded Flooding in a railway tunnel near London forced the cancellation of more than a dozen trains linking Britain with the European mainland early on Saturday, international rail operator Eurostar said. India all-rounder Shardul Thakur injures shoulder during net session India all-rounder Shardul Thakur was injured on Saturday, December 30 while batting during a net session. Thakur was hit on shoulder when he was taking throwdowns and the extent of seriousness of the injury is yet to be determined. The all-rounder will undergo scans if required. The developments were first reported by the news agency PTI. Rudyard Kipling, a literary colossus built on colonial sand Today marks the 158th anniversary of Rudyard Kipling's birth. The occasion prompts a comprehensive reflection on his complex legacy, particularly for those who, like me, grew up enchanted by his stories and discovered the disturbing undercurrents of his beliefs much later. Born on December 30, 1865, in Bombay, British India, Kipling's literary contributions are undeniably significant, yet the shadows of his colonial-era prejudices cast a disquieting pall over his work.

Top 10 world news: Modi in Ayodhya ahead of temple consecration, Russia shaken by Belogrod strike, and more

<p lang="en-US">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 30) reached the house of a woman, identified as Meera Manjhi, who is the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana's tenth-crore beneficiary in the Indian city of Ayodhya in the state of Uttar Pradesh.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The prime minister was offered tea by the beneficiary of the flagship scheme when he stopped at her home. Under the scheme, rural and deprived households – which have been using firewood, coal, and cow-dung cakes for cooking – are provided clean cooking fuel such as LPG cylinders.</p>

<p lang="en-US">During his visit to Meera's house, the prime minister asked her when the cylinder was delivered to her and also inquired about the electricity and water supply in the house. He also asked her how she was provided money under the government scheme for the construction of the house and whether they had to bribe anyone to get any work done.</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 Narendra Modi visited the house of a Ujjwala beneficiary Meera and had tea at her residence, during his Ayodhya visit, earlier today.<br />
<br />
Meera is the 10 crore beneficiary of PM Ujjwala Yojana. <a href="https://t.co/rJKiUFPGHF">pic.twitter.com/rJKiUFPGHF</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1741071711242719583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The family expressed their happiness at the visit of the prime minister and said that they had never expected him to visit their house.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-first-flight-to-indias-temple-city-of-ayodhya-indigo-captains-welcome-passengers-cut-cake-675072">On first flight to India's temple city of Ayodhya, IndiGo captain's welcome passengers, cut cake</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">When he walked outside the house, the prime minister was greeted by a large crowd on the narrow streets of Ayodhya who shouted slogans of “Jai Shree Ram”. The prime minister also signed a painting which was presented to him by a boy.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>PM Modi's Ayodhya visit</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">The prime minister visited Ayodhya on Saturday (Dec 30). His visit started with the commencement of an 8 km-long road show during which enthusiastic people made a bee-line on the two sides of the streets and showered flowers on him while chanting "Jai Shree Ram".</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi in Ayodhya: India's ancient town in focus ahead of Ram Mandir inauguration</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-in-ayodhya-indias-ancient-town-in-focus-ahead-of-ram-mandir-inauguration-675050/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p lang="en-US">The official proceedings of PM Modi included the newly constructed Ayodhya Dham Junction railway station's inauguration. After this, the prime minister inspected the trains and held discussions with schoolchildren.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The prime minister officially flagged off both the Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains. He further inaugurated the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport which will further improve connectivity and infrastructure of the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 30) reached the house of a woman, identified as Meera Manjhi, who is the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana's tenth-crore beneficiary in the Indian city of Ayodhya in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 30) reached the house of a woman, identified as Meera Manjhi, who is the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana's tenth-crore beneficiary in the Indian city of Ayodhya in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The prime minister was offered tea by the beneficiary of the flagship scheme when he stopped at her home. Under the scheme, rural and deprived households – which have been using firewood, coal, and cow-dung cakes for cooking – are provided clean cooking fuel such as LPG cylinders. During his visit to Meera's house, the prime minister asked her when the cylinder was delivered to her and also inquired about the electricity and water supply in the house. He also asked her how she was provided money under the government scheme for the construction of the house and whether they had to bribe anyone to get any work done. #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi visited the house of a Ujjwala beneficiary Meera and had tea at her residence, during his Ayodhya visit, earlier today. Meera is the 10 crore beneficiary of PM Ujjwala Yojana. pic.twitter.com/rJKiUFPGHF — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2023 × The family expressed their happiness at the visit of the prime minister and said that they had never expected him to visit their house. Also read: On first flight to India's temple city of Ayodhya, IndiGo captain's welcome passengers, cut cake When he walked outside the house, the prime minister was greeted by a large crowd on the narrow streets of Ayodhya who shouted slogans of “Jai Shree Ram”. The prime minister also signed a painting which was presented to him by a boy. PM Modi's Ayodhya visit The prime minister visited Ayodhya on Saturday (Dec 30). His visit started with the commencement of an 8 km-long road show during which enthusiastic people made a bee-line on the two sides of the streets and showered flowers on him while chanting "Jai Shree Ram". Watch: PM Modi in Ayodhya: India's ancient town in focus ahead of Ram Mandir inauguration The official proceedings of PM Modi included the newly constructed Ayodhya Dham Junction railway station's inauguration. After this, the prime minister inspected the trains and held discussions with schoolchildren. The prime minister officially flagged off both the Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains. He further inaugurated the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport which will further improve connectivity and infrastructure of the city. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Indian PM takes detour, stops for tea at welfare scheme beneficiary’s home in Ayodhya

<p lang="en-US">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the people to avoid visiting the temple city of Ayodhya on January 22 when the grand Ram temple will be inaugurated in order to prevent rush and crowding.</p>

<p lang="en-US">"As bhakts, we would not like to cause any problems to Lord Ram. You all can come starting January 23 till eternity... Ram Mandir is now there forever and ever," said PM Modi. The prime minister also appealed to every Indian to light a diya in their homes to mark the temple's inauguration on January 22.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The remarks were made by PM Modi while speaking at a public meeting after the inauguration of the newly built airport and renovated railway station in the temple city. He added that the strength of "vikas" (development) and "viraasat" (heritage) will take the nation forward.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The Ram Temple's much-awaited inauguration in Ayodhya is likely to be a grand affair on January 22 and devotees from across the nation have already started gathering to witness the final phase of the temple complex's construction.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-rajasthan-to-telangana-the-ram-temple-in-ayodhya-is-being-constructed-with-materials-from-all-over-india-674335">From Rajasthan to Telangana, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is being constructed with material from all over India</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">The construction activities are being carried out in full swing in Ayodhya and the Ram Temple is likely to be completed in a few days. Thereafter,&nbsp;the decoration work of the temple will start.</p>

<p lang="en-US">At present, the site is filled with mounds of Makrana Marble brought from Rajasthan's Bharatpur district and stones from other places for the construction of the grand temple.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Almost 8,000 dignitaries have been&nbsp;invited to attend the consecration ceremony on January 22 and 15 per cent of the people&nbsp;working at the site of the temple have also received&nbsp;invites.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>PM Modi's Ayodhya visit</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Prime minister's visit to&nbsp;Ayodhya on Saturday (Dec 30) started with the commencement of an 8 km-long road show during which enthusiastic people made a bee-line on the&nbsp;sides of the streets and showered flowers on him while chanting "Jai Shri Ram".</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi in Ayodhya: Indian pilgrim town in focus ahead of Ram Mandir inauguration</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">The official proceedings of PM Modi included the inauguration of the newly constructed Ayodhya Dham Junction railway station and flagging off Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains. After this, the prime minister inspected the trains and held discussions with schoolchildren.</p>

<p lang="en-US">The prime minister He also inaugurated the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport which will further improve connectivity and boost tourism in the&nbsp;city.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the people to avoid visiting the temple city of Ayodhya on January 22 when the grand Ram temple will be inaugurated in order to prevent rush and crowding.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the people to avoid visiting the temple city of Ayodhya on January 22 when the grand Ram temple will be inaugurated in order to prevent rush and crowding. "As bhakts, we would not like to cause any problems to Lord Ram. You all can come starting January 23 till eternity... Ram Mandir is now there forever and ever," said PM Modi. The prime minister also appealed to every Indian to light a diya in their homes to mark the temple's inauguration on January 22. The remarks were made by PM Modi while speaking at a public meeting after the inauguration of the newly built airport and renovated railway station in the temple city. He added that the strength of "vikas" (development) and "viraasat" (heritage) will take the nation forward. The Ram Temple's much-awaited inauguration in Ayodhya is likely to be a grand affair on January 22 and devotees from across the nation have already started gathering to witness the final phase of the temple complex's construction. Also read: From Rajasthan to Telangana, the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is being constructed with material from all over India The construction activities are being carried out in full swing in Ayodhya and the Ram Temple is likely to be completed in a few days. Thereafter, the decoration work of the temple will start. At present, the site is filled with mounds of Makrana Marble brought from Rajasthan's Bharatpur district and stones from other places for the construction of the grand temple. Almost 8,000 dignitaries have been invited to attend the consecration ceremony on January 22 and 15 per cent of the people working at the site of the temple have also received invites. PM Modi's Ayodhya visit Prime minister's visit to Ayodhya on Saturday (Dec 30) started with the commencement of an 8 km-long road show during which enthusiastic people made a bee-line on the sides of the streets and showered flowers on him while chanting "Jai Shri Ram". Watch: PM Modi in Ayodhya: Indian pilgrim town in focus ahead of Ram Mandir inauguration The official proceedings of PM Modi included the inauguration of the newly constructed Ayodhya Dham Junction railway station and flagging off Vande Bharat and Amrit Bharat trains. After this, the prime minister inspected the trains and held discussions with schoolchildren. The prime minister He also inaugurated the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport which will further improve connectivity and boost tourism in the city. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Light diyas, but don’t...’: Here’s how PM Modi wants India to celebrate Ram temple inauguration

<p>Papua New Guinea&nbsp;Prime Minister James Marape has extended his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for India's swift and generous response to the urgent plea for assistance following the recent volcanic eruption of Mt Ulawun in the country's West New Britain province.</p>

<p>Addressing the dire aftermath of the volcanic eruption that forced the evacuation of over 26,000 people, Prime Minister Marape stated, “I thank Prime Minister Modi for the generous help, within a short period of time, as soon as he received my request for assistance. This reflects India’s commitment to supporting relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts in West New Britain, and echoes the sentiments of friendship and partnership.”</p>

<p>India's response included a relief package of US$1 million, comprising essential items such as tents, sleeping mats, hygiene kits, meals ready to eat, and water storage tanks. This aid is aimed at addressing the immediate needs of those displaced by the volcanic eruption.</p>

<p>“In a powerful display of solidarity and a firm commitment to humanitarian aid, India promptly dispatched a dedicated charter flight laden with essential relief supplies to aid the people of West New Britain in coping with the aftermath of the volcanic eruption,” Prime Minister Marape remarked.</p>

<p>The relief, handed over by Indian High Commission First Secretary Ravindra Nath to Oil Palm Minister and Nakanai MP, Francis Maneke, at Jackson International Airport, also includes a medical aid payload with essential medicines, surgical items, sanitary pads, rapid antigen test kits, pregnancy test kits, mosquito repellents, and baby food.</p>

<p>India's assistance marks another instance of unwavering support, as the nation had previously stood by Papua New Guinea during times of crisis, including the earthquake in 2018 and the volcanic eruption in 2019.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi, having visited Papua New Guinea earlier, met Prime Minister Marape at the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) held in Port Moresby. On arrival in the country, Papua New Guinea's PM touched the feet of PM Modi, which was seen as a warm traditional gesture.</p>


Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has extended his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for India's swift and generous response to the urgent plea for assistance following the recent volcanic eruption of Mt Ulawun in the country's West New Britain province.

Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has extended his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for India's swift and generous response to the urgent plea for assistance following the recent volcanic eruption of Mt Ulawun in the country's West New Britain province. Addressing the dire aftermath of the volcanic eruption that forced the evacuation of over 26,000 people, Prime Minister Marape stated, “I thank Prime Minister Modi for the generous help, within a short period of time, as soon as he received my request for assistance. This reflects India’s commitment to supporting relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts in West New Britain, and echoes the sentiments of friendship and partnership.” India's response included a relief package of US$1 million, comprising essential items such as tents, sleeping mats, hygiene kits, meals ready to eat, and water storage tanks. This aid is aimed at addressing the immediate needs of those displaced by the volcanic eruption. “In a powerful display of solidarity and a firm commitment to humanitarian aid, India promptly dispatched a dedicated charter flight laden with essential relief supplies to aid the people of West New Britain in coping with the aftermath of the volcanic eruption,” Prime Minister Marape remarked. The relief, handed over by Indian High Commission First Secretary Ravindra Nath to Oil Palm Minister and Nakanai MP, Francis Maneke, at Jackson International Airport, also includes a medical aid payload with essential medicines, surgical items, sanitary pads, rapid antigen test kits, pregnancy test kits, mosquito repellents, and baby food. India's assistance marks another instance of unwavering support, as the nation had previously stood by Papua New Guinea during times of crisis, including the earthquake in 2018 and the volcanic eruption in 2019. Prime Minister Modi, having visited Papua New Guinea earlier, met Prime Minister Marape at the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) held in Port Moresby. On arrival in the country, Papua New Guinea's PM touched the feet of PM Modi, which was seen as a warm traditional gesture.

Papua New Guinea PM thanks PM Modi for assistance in the aftermath of volcanic eruption

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his meeting with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in Moscow on Wednesday (Dec 27).</p>

<p>Putin, reflecting on the substantial work ahead, conveyed, "We will be glad to see our friend, Mr. Prime Minister Modi in Russia. We will be able to discuss all current issues and talk about the prospects for the development of Russian-Indian relations", adding, "So I ask you to convey to him my best wishes and please pass on our invitation. We are waiting for him in Russia."</p>

<p>Putin acknowledged the "domestic political calendar in India," in relation to the upcoming general elections, and expressed his hope for the continuity of the enduring friendship between the peoples of India and Russia. He emphasised, "We hope that no matter the alignment of political forces, traditional friendly ties between our peoples will remain."</p>

<p>The high-level meeting, attended by key officials on both sides, addressed various facets of the bilateral relationship, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Putin acknowledged Prime Minister Modi's stance on the Ukraine conflict, stating, "I have repeatedly informed him about the situation surrounding this conflict. I know his desire to do everything to resolve this problem through peaceful means."</p>

<p>PM Modi, during his meeting with him on the sidelines of Samarkand SCO summit in 2022 told him that this an not "an era of war", a phrase that was repeated by other world leaders as well.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;'This is not as era of war': Indian PM Modi tells Russian President Putin on sidelines of SCO summit</strong></p>

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<p>President Putin and Minister Jaishankar engaged in detailed discussions on the Ukraine conflict, with Putin affirming Modi's commitment to peaceful resolutions.</p>

<p>The Russian President stated, "Now we will talk about this in more detail and inform you further."</p>

<p>Shifting focus to economic ties, Putin highlighted the robust growth in trade turnover between the two nations.</p>

<p>He emphasised, "Our trade turnover is growing, for the second year in a row and at a steady pace. This year the pace is even greater than last year."</p>

<p>Putin attributed this growth to various sectors, including energy resources such as oil, petroleum products, and coal. He expressed satisfaction over ties, noting, "we are very pleased to note that despite all the turbulence that is happening in the world, relations with our traditional friends in Asia, with India, with the Indian people are developing progressively."</p>

<p>In attendance from the Indian delegation were MEA's Joint Secretary ERS Eurasia division Charanjeet Singh and Indian Envoy to Russia Pavan Kapoor.</p>

<p>Representing the Russian side were Russian FM Sergey Lavrov, Trade Minister Denis Manturov, and Putin's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov.&nbsp;External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's ongoing five-day visit to Russia has been marked by engagements with key Russian counterparts, including Foreign Minister and Trade Minister.</p>

<p>It is rare for Russian President Putin to meet ministers. In last few years, he has made exception only for&nbsp;India's Foreign Minister Jaishankar, National Security Adviser&nbsp;Ajit Doval; Chinese foreign and&nbsp;defence ministers respectively.</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his meeting with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in Moscow on Wednesday (Dec 27).

Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his meeting with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in Moscow on Wednesday (Dec 27). Putin, reflecting on the substantial work ahead, conveyed, "We will be glad to see our friend, Mr. Prime Minister Modi in Russia. We will be able to discuss all current issues and talk about the prospects for the development of Russian-Indian relations", adding, "So I ask you to convey to him my best wishes and please pass on our invitation. We are waiting for him in Russia." Putin acknowledged the "domestic political calendar in India," in relation to the upcoming general elections, and expressed his hope for the continuity of the enduring friendship between the peoples of India and Russia. He emphasised, "We hope that no matter the alignment of political forces, traditional friendly ties between our peoples will remain." The high-level meeting, attended by key officials on both sides, addressed various facets of the bilateral relationship, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Putin acknowledged Prime Minister Modi's stance on the Ukraine conflict, stating, "I have repeatedly informed him about the situation surrounding this conflict. I know his desire to do everything to resolve this problem through peaceful means." PM Modi, during his meeting with him on the sidelines of Samarkand SCO summit in 2022 told him that this an not "an era of war", a phrase that was repeated by other world leaders as well. Also watch | 'This is not as era of war': Indian PM Modi tells Russian President Putin on sidelines of SCO summit × President Putin and Minister Jaishankar engaged in detailed discussions on the Ukraine conflict, with Putin affirming Modi's commitment to peaceful resolutions. The Russian President stated, "Now we will talk about this in more detail and inform you further." Shifting focus to economic ties, Putin highlighted the robust growth in trade turnover between the two nations. He emphasised, "Our trade turnover is growing, for the second year in a row and at a steady pace. This year the pace is even greater than last year." Putin attributed this growth to various sectors, including energy resources such as oil, petroleum products, and coal. He expressed satisfaction over ties, noting, "we are very pleased to note that despite all the turbulence that is happening in the world, relations with our traditional friends in Asia, with India, with the Indian people are developing progressively." In attendance from the Indian delegation were MEA's Joint Secretary ERS Eurasia division Charanjeet Singh and Indian Envoy to Russia Pavan Kapoor. Representing the Russian side were Russian FM Sergey Lavrov, Trade Minister Denis Manturov, and Putin's foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov. External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's ongoing five-day visit to Russia has been marked by engagements with key Russian counterparts, including Foreign Minister and Trade Minister. It is rare for Russian President Putin to meet ministers. In last few years, he has made exception only for India's Foreign Minister Jaishankar, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval; Chinese foreign and defence ministers respectively.

Putin invites PM Modi to Russia during his meeting with EAM Jaishankar

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted the invite to inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir on 14<sup>th</sup>&nbsp;February 2024 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Temple authorities have said.</p>

<p>In a release, they said that the invite was extended on behalf of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi by Pujya Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas, along with the board of directors on Thursday at his official residence and he "graciously accepted the invitation, expressing his enthusiastic support for the historic and iconic temple".</p>

<p>Situated at Abu Mureikha, along the Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway, the forthcoming BAPS Hindu Mandir is the first traditional Hindu stone temple in West Asia. The genesis of this historical project can be&nbsp;traced back to the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, during which the UAE government allocated the land for the temple.</p>

<p>Notably, in 2018, Prime Minister Modi virtually participated in the Shila Pujan, further cementing his connection to this endeavour.</p>

<p>"The inauguration ceremony will be a great event, a millennial moment of celebration for time to come," expressed Swami Brahmaviharidas, emphasising the grandeur and cultural significance of the BAPS Hindu Mandir.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi echoed this sentiment: "It will reflect the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—an ideal spiritual space, not merely rooted in beliefs and traditions, but a confluence of diverse cultures and civilisations. The essence of spiritual harmony, symbolising the path forward."</p>

<p>During the hour-long meeting at the Prime Minister's residential office, the BAPS delegation&nbsp;engaged in discussions with Modi on the temple's global significance and its alignment with his vision for India's spiritual leadership on the global stage.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US' largest Hindu Temple to be formally inaugurated on October 8</strong></p>

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<p>"Discussions revolved around Abu Dhabi temple's significance for global harmony and Modi's vision for India's spiritual leadership on the global stage," as mentioned in the release by temple authorities.</p>

<p>Recalling memories of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his centenary celebrations, Prime Minister Modi expressed prayers for Mahant Swami Maharaj's health, the president of BAPS.</p>

<p>In a heartfelt gesture, Mahant Swami Maharaj's personal invitation was presented to Modi, describing him as "Pramukh Swami na Priya Putra Modi Saheb" or "The most beloved son of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Modiji."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The BAPS delegation prayed for the Prime Minister’s health and acknowledged his exceptional global achievements, notably strengthening relationships with the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries: Temple authorities</p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1740380681338077561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/envoys-from-30-countries-marvel-at-abu-dhabis-baps-hindu-temple-complex-596597">Envoys from 30 countries marvel at Abu Dhabi's BAPS Hindu Temple complex</a></strong></p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi commended key individuals, volunteers, and supporters in his appreciation for the BAPS Hindu Mandir project in Abu Dhabi.</p>

<p>"I appreciate the efforts of key individuals, volunteers, and supporters involved in the BAPS Hindu Mandir project in Abu Dhabi," stated the Prime Minister, specifically recognising Chairman Ashok Kotecha, Vice Chairman Yogesh Mehta, and Director Chirag Patel for their significant contributions, acknowledging them as sources of pride for India.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted the invite to inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir on 14th February 2024 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Temple authorities have said.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted the invite to inaugurate the BAPS Hindu Mandir on 14th February 2024 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Temple authorities have said. In a release, they said that the invite was extended on behalf of BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi by Pujya Swami Ishwarcharandas and Swami Brahmaviharidas, along with the board of directors on Thursday at his official residence and he "graciously accepted the invitation, expressing his enthusiastic support for the historic and iconic temple". Situated at Abu Mureikha, along the Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway, the forthcoming BAPS Hindu Mandir is the first traditional Hindu stone temple in West Asia. The genesis of this historical project can be traced back to the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015, during which the UAE government allocated the land for the temple. Notably, in 2018, Prime Minister Modi virtually participated in the Shila Pujan, further cementing his connection to this endeavour. "The inauguration ceremony will be a great event, a millennial moment of celebration for time to come," expressed Swami Brahmaviharidas, emphasising the grandeur and cultural significance of the BAPS Hindu Mandir. Prime Minister Modi echoed this sentiment: "It will reflect the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—an ideal spiritual space, not merely rooted in beliefs and traditions, but a confluence of diverse cultures and civilisations. The essence of spiritual harmony, symbolising the path forward." During the hour-long meeting at the Prime Minister's residential office, the BAPS delegation engaged in discussions with Modi on the temple's global significance and its alignment with his vision for India's spiritual leadership on the global stage. Also watch | Gravitas: US' largest Hindu Temple to be formally inaugurated on October 8 × "Discussions revolved around Abu Dhabi temple's significance for global harmony and Modi's vision for India's spiritual leadership on the global stage," as mentioned in the release by temple authorities. Recalling memories of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and his centenary celebrations, Prime Minister Modi expressed prayers for Mahant Swami Maharaj's health, the president of BAPS. In a heartfelt gesture, Mahant Swami Maharaj's personal invitation was presented to Modi, describing him as "Pramukh Swami na Priya Putra Modi Saheb" or "The most beloved son of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Modiji." The BAPS delegation prayed for the Prime Minister’s health and acknowledged his exceptional global achievements, notably strengthening relationships with the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries: Temple authorities — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 28, 2023 × Also read | Envoys from 30 countries marvel at Abu Dhabi's BAPS Hindu Temple complex Prime Minister Modi commended key individuals, volunteers, and supporters in his appreciation for the BAPS Hindu Mandir project in Abu Dhabi. "I appreciate the efforts of key individuals, volunteers, and supporters involved in the BAPS Hindu Mandir project in Abu Dhabi," stated the Prime Minister, specifically recognising Chairman Ashok Kotecha, Vice Chairman Yogesh Mehta, and Director Chirag Patel for their significant contributions, acknowledging them as sources of pride for India.

Indian PM Modi agrees to inaugurate BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, say temple authorities

<p>Weeks after India and Italy signed a mobility pact aimed at enhancing people-to-people contact between the citizens of two countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet on Wednesday (Dec 27) notified the pact.</p>

<p>"The Agreement would enhance people-to-people contacts, foster mobility of students, skilled workers, business people and young professionals and strengthen cooperation on issues related to irregular migration between the two sides," an official readout by the Indian side stated.</p>

<p>The agreement will remain in&nbsp;force for a period of five years and will be automatically renewed for a successive period unless it's terminated by either&nbsp;signatory.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-Italy mobility pact: What does it entail?</strong></h2>

<p>The pact locks-in the present-day Italian visa regime including the mechanism for post-study opportunities, internships and professional trainings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <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>"Cooperation between the two parties in fight against irregular migration has also been formalised through the Agreement," an official readout says.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean for Indians intending to work in Italy?</strong></h2>

<p>Under the now-formalised mobility pact, Indian students wishing to gather initial professional experience, after completing academic or vocational training in Italy may be granted temporary residence in Italy for up to 12 months, according to an official readout.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, the Italian side has detailed provisions related to professional training, extracurricular and curricular internships which allow Indian students/trainees to gain experience in Italian skill/training standards.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India and Italy celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations</strong></p>

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<p>For 2023, Italian side has reserved a quota of 5000 non-seasonal Indian workers. For 2024, this number is 6,000 and for 2025, it stands at 7,000 non-seasonal Indian workers respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The total quota stands at 12,000 for non-seasonal workers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As for the seasonal workers, the Italian side has reserved a quota of 3,000, 4,000 and 5,000 Indian workers respectively, for 2023, 2024 and 2025.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The total quota stands at 8,000 for seasonal workers.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-Italy ties in ‘Melodi’ era</strong></h2>

<p>The show of bilateral bonhomie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, first seen during Meloni's New Delhi visit in March 2023, has not just taken over the internet but also the corridors of power in New Delhi and Rome.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good friends at COP28.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melodi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/g0W6R0RJJo">pic.twitter.com/g0W6R0RJJo</a></p>
— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/1730644622198657314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The India-Italy bilateral relationship between the two countries stands elevated to the level of strategic partnership since March, with Rome's naval experience in Adriatic Sea adding to India's strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An India-Italy summit was held in 2020 in which 15 Memorandums of Understanding covering areas like energy, media, finance, and ship building were signed.</p>


Weeks after India and Italy signed a mobility pact aimed at enhancing people-to-people contact between the citizens of two countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet on Wednesday (Dec 27) notified the pact.

Weeks after India and Italy signed a mobility pact aimed at enhancing people-to-people contact between the citizens of two countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet on Wednesday (Dec 27) notified the pact. "The Agreement would enhance people-to-people contacts, foster mobility of students, skilled workers, business people and young professionals and strengthen cooperation on issues related to irregular migration between the two sides," an official readout by the Indian side stated. The agreement will remain in force for a period of five years and will be automatically renewed for a successive period unless it's terminated by either signatory. India-Italy mobility pact: What does it entail? The pact locks-in the present-day Italian visa regime including the mechanism for post-study opportunities, internships and professional trainings. Also read | Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years "Cooperation between the two parties in fight against irregular migration has also been formalised through the Agreement," an official readout says. What does it mean for Indians intending to work in Italy? Under the now-formalised mobility pact, Indian students wishing to gather initial professional experience, after completing academic or vocational training in Italy may be granted temporary residence in Italy for up to 12 months, according to an official readout. Furthermore, the Italian side has detailed provisions related to professional training, extracurricular and curricular internships which allow Indian students/trainees to gain experience in Italian skill/training standards. Also watch | India and Italy celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations × For 2023, Italian side has reserved a quota of 5000 non-seasonal Indian workers. For 2024, this number is 6,000 and for 2025, it stands at 7,000 non-seasonal Indian workers respectively. The total quota stands at 12,000 for non-seasonal workers. As for the seasonal workers, the Italian side has reserved a quota of 3,000, 4,000 and 5,000 Indian workers respectively, for 2023, 2024 and 2025. The total quota stands at 8,000 for seasonal workers. India-Italy ties in ‘Melodi’ era The show of bilateral bonhomie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, first seen during Meloni's New Delhi visit in March 2023, has not just taken over the internet but also the corridors of power in New Delhi and Rome. Good friends at COP28.#Melodi pic.twitter.com/g0W6R0RJJo — Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) December 1, 2023 × The India-Italy bilateral relationship between the two countries stands elevated to the level of strategic partnership since March, with Rome's naval experience in Adriatic Sea adding to India's strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific. An India-Italy summit was held in 2020 in which 15 Memorandums of Understanding covering areas like energy, media, finance, and ship building were signed.

India-Italy move forward in ‘Melodi’ era with approval of key migration and mobility pact

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (Dec 22) confirmed that he would be the chief guest for the 2024 Indian Republic Day parade in New Delhi. In a post on X, President Macron said, "Thank you for your invitation, my dear friend Narendra Modi. India, on your Republic Day, I’ll be here to celebrate with you!"</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, an invitation was extended to Macron to be a chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. India had initially invited United States President Joe Biden to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations, but the visit did not materialise.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you for your invitation, my dear friend <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a>. India, on your Republic Day, I’ll be here to celebrate with you!</p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1738189685195702298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>This is the sixth time that a French leader would be the chief at the celebrations in India's national capital.&nbsp;Before Macron, then prime minister Jacques Chirac became the first-ever French leader to be invited as the chief guest in 1976.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequent invitations were extended to French President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing in 1980, President Jacques Chirac in 1998, President Nicolas Sarkozy in 2008, and President François Hollande in 2016, <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/french-president-emmanuel-macron-invited-to-be-chief-guest-at-republic-day-2024-672320">WION earlier reported</a></strong>.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the guest of honour at the Bastille Day celebrations in France on July 14. This year also marked 25 years of strategic partnership between New Delhi and Paris.</p>

<p>To mark this anniversary, a 241-member tri-service Indian armed forces contingent led by a military band also took part in the Bastille Day Parade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In September, French President Macron visited India to attend the G20 Summit. On Sept 10, Macron and Modi held a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on the sidelines of the summit. Following the meeting, Modi said he and Macron reaffirmed their commitment to take India-France relations to newer heights of progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and France have been cooperating closely in various sectors including defence, space, trade and education.</p>


French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (Dec 22) confirmed that he would be the chief guest for the 2024 Indian Republic Day parade in New Delhi. In a post on X, President Macron said, "Thank you for your invitation, my dear friend Narendra Modi.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday (Dec 22) confirmed that he would be the chief guest for the 2024 Indian Republic Day parade in New Delhi. In a post on X, President Macron said, "Thank you for your invitation, my dear friend Narendra Modi. India, on your Republic Day, I’ll be here to celebrate with you!" Earlier in the day, an invitation was extended to Macron to be a chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations. India had initially invited United States President Joe Biden to be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations, but the visit did not materialise. Thank you for your invitation, my dear friend @NarendraModi. India, on your Republic Day, I’ll be here to celebrate with you! — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) December 22, 2023 × This is the sixth time that a French leader would be the chief at the celebrations in India's national capital. Before Macron, then prime minister Jacques Chirac became the first-ever French leader to be invited as the chief guest in 1976. Subsequent invitations were extended to French President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing in 1980, President Jacques Chirac in 1998, President Nicolas Sarkozy in 2008, and President François Hollande in 2016, WION earlier reported. Earlier this year, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the guest of honour at the Bastille Day celebrations in France on July 14. This year also marked 25 years of strategic partnership between New Delhi and Paris. To mark this anniversary, a 241-member tri-service Indian armed forces contingent led by a military band also took part in the Bastille Day Parade. In September, French President Macron visited India to attend the G20 Summit. On Sept 10, Macron and Modi held a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on the sidelines of the summit. Following the meeting, Modi said he and Macron reaffirmed their commitment to take India-France relations to newer heights of progress. India and France have been cooperating closely in various sectors including defence, space, trade and education.

Macron thanks 'dear friend' Modi for Republic Day invite, says will 'celebrate with you'

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged the activities of 'extremist groups based overseas' while responding to the alleged assassination plot of an India-designated terrorist&nbsp;in the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If someone gives us any information, we would definitely look into it," Modi said in an interview with the Financial Times. "If a citizen of ours has done anything good or bad, we are ready to look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law."</p>

<p>PM Modi has for the first time responded to allegations of an Indian assassination plot in the US, which the American authorities claim was targeted at&nbsp;Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the general counsel for the separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and designated an&nbsp;'individual terrorist' by India's&nbsp;National Investigation Agency (NIA).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Explained: The Pannun Plot, India's global image &amp; The India-U.S. strategic partnership</strong></p>

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<p>Modi said India was "deeply concerned about the activities of certain extremist groups based overseas".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added: "These elements, under the guise of freedom of expression, have engaged in intimidation and incited violence."</p>

<p>The India-US ties have been described&nbsp;as "among the most consequential in the world".&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Modi said: "There is strong bipartisan support for the strengthening of this relationship, which is a clear indicator of a mature and stable partnership."</p>

<p>"Security and counter-terrorism co-operation has been a key component of our partnership," he added. "I don’t think it is appropriate to link a few incidents with diplomatic relations between the two countries."&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden visited New Delhi for the G20 summit in September.</p>

<p>India’s foreign ministry previously announced that New Delhi had set up a high-level committee to investigate the US allegations and would "take necessary follow-up action".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"When Americans brought up issues, they told us some specific things...we sincerely told Canadians, its up to you, your choice if you would like us to peruse further", EAM Jaishankar <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> at a Bengaluru event on US/Canada murder/attempt to murder case <a href="https://t.co/Y9zNL1eiq6">pic.twitter.com/Y9zNL1eiq6</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1736294878479585290?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Pannun assassination plot&nbsp;followed a statement in September from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that Ottawa was investigating whether "agents" of New Delhi were behind the June killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist, in British Columbia. India denounced the claim as "absurd".</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged the activities of 'extremist groups based overseas' while responding to the alleged assassination plot of an India-designated terrorist in the United States.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged the activities of 'extremist groups based overseas' while responding to the alleged assassination plot of an India-designated terrorist in the United States. "If someone gives us any information, we would definitely look into it," Modi said in an interview with the Financial Times. "If a citizen of ours has done anything good or bad, we are ready to look into it. Our commitment is to the rule of law." PM Modi has for the first time responded to allegations of an Indian assassination plot in the US, which the American authorities claim was targeted at Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the general counsel for the separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and designated an 'individual terrorist' by India's National Investigation Agency (NIA). Also watch | Explained: The Pannun Plot, India's global image & The India-U.S. strategic partnership × Modi said India was "deeply concerned about the activities of certain extremist groups based overseas". He added: "These elements, under the guise of freedom of expression, have engaged in intimidation and incited violence." The India-US ties have been described as "among the most consequential in the world". However, Modi said: "There is strong bipartisan support for the strengthening of this relationship, which is a clear indicator of a mature and stable partnership." "Security and counter-terrorism co-operation has been a key component of our partnership," he added. "I don’t think it is appropriate to link a few incidents with diplomatic relations between the two countries." US President Joe Biden visited New Delhi for the G20 summit in September. India’s foreign ministry previously announced that New Delhi had set up a high-level committee to investigate the US allegations and would "take necessary follow-up action". "When Americans brought up issues, they told us some specific things...we sincerely told Canadians, its up to you, your choice if you would like us to peruse further", EAM Jaishankar @DrSJaishankar at a Bengaluru event on US/Canada murder/attempt to murder case pic.twitter.com/Y9zNL1eiq6 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 17, 2023 × The Pannun assassination plot followed a statement in September from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that Ottawa was investigating whether "agents" of New Delhi were behind the June killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist, in British Columbia. India denounced the claim as "absurd". (With inputs from agencies)

Amid alleged Pannun murder plot, Indian PM Modi flags activities of overseas 'extremist groups'

<p>BJP veterans LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi who were at the forefront of the agitation for the Ram temple in Ayodhya are unlikely to attend next month's consecration ceremony due to their health and age, the temple trust said in Ayodhya on Monday.</p>

<p>"Both are elders of the family and considering their age, they were requested not to come, which was accepted by both," Ram Temple Trust general secretary Champat Rai told reporters.</p>

<p>Mr Rai said preparations are in full swing for the consecration ceremony on January 22, which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;How Ram Mandir is boosting Ayodhya's economy</strong></p>

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<p>The preparations would be completed by January 15 and the puja for 'praan pratistha' will start from January 16 and will continue till January 22, he added.</p>

<p>Giving a detailed list of the invitees, Mr Rai said Mr Advani and Mr Joshi might not attend the consecration ceremony due to health and age-related reasons.</p>

<p>Mr Advani is now 96 and Mr Joshi will turn 90 next month.</p>

<p>A three-member team has been formed to visit former prime minister Deve Gowda and invite him to the ceremony, Rai said.</p>

<p>"Shankaracharyas of six darshanas (ancient schools) and around 150 saints and sages and will participate in the ceremony," Mr Rai said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-mohit-pandey-22-year-old-chosen-among-200-candidates-for-priest-of-ayodhyas-ram-temple-669315">Who is Mohit Pandey? 22-year-old chosen among 200 candidates for priest of Ayodhya's Ram Temple</a></strong></p>

<p>He added that about 4,000 saints and 2,200 other guests have been invited for the ceremony.</p>

<p>Heads of major temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Vaishno Devi, and representatives of religious and constitutional institutions have also been invited, he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Mata Amritanandamayi of Kerala, yoga guru Baba Ramdev, cine stars Rajnikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Madhuri Dixit, Arun Govil, film director Madhur Bhandarkar and prominent industrialists such as Mukesh Ambani, Anil Ambani, famous painter Vasudev Kamat, ISRO Director Nilesh Desai and many other eminent personalities have been invited to the function, Rai said.</p>

<p>After the consecration ceremony, 'mandal puja' will be held from January 24 for 48 days as per ritual traditions. The temple will be opened for devotees on January 23, he added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-to-install-lord-ram-idol-at-ayodhya-temple-in-historic-ceremony-on-jan-22-651242">India: PM Modi to attend installation of Lord Ram's idol at Ayodhya temple in historic ceremony on Jan 22</a></strong></p>

<p>Mr Rai said that proper arrangements have been made for the guests to stay at more than three places in Ayodhya. Apart from this, 600 rooms have been made available by various monasteries, temples and household families.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, authorities of the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation said they have begun preparing for the consecration ceremony.</p>

<p>Speaking to PTI, Municipal Commissioner Vishal Singh said that fibre toilets will be installed for devotees and changing rooms will be set up for women at designated places.</p>

<p>The 'Ram Katha Kunj' corridor will be built in the Ram Janmabhoomi complex which would showcase tableaux displaying 108 events from Lord Ram's life, he said.</p>


BJP veterans LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi who were at the forefront of the agitation for the Ram temple in Ayodhya are unlikely to attend next month's consecration ceremony due to their health and age, the temple trust said in Ayodhya on Monday.

BJP veterans LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi who were at the forefront of the agitation for the Ram temple in Ayodhya are unlikely to attend next month's consecration ceremony due to their health and age, the temple trust said in Ayodhya on Monday. "Both are elders of the family and considering their age, they were requested not to come, which was accepted by both," Ram Temple Trust general secretary Champat Rai told reporters. Mr Rai said preparations are in full swing for the consecration ceremony on January 22, which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. ALSO WATCH | How Ram Mandir is boosting Ayodhya's economy The preparations would be completed by January 15 and the puja for 'praan pratistha' will start from January 16 and will continue till January 22, he added. Giving a detailed list of the invitees, Mr Rai said Mr Advani and Mr Joshi might not attend the consecration ceremony due to health and age-related reasons. Mr Advani is now 96 and Mr Joshi will turn 90 next month. A three-member team has been formed to visit former prime minister Deve Gowda and invite him to the ceremony, Rai said. "Shankaracharyas of six darshanas (ancient schools) and around 150 saints and sages and will participate in the ceremony," Mr Rai said. ALSO READ | Who is Mohit Pandey? 22-year-old chosen among 200 candidates for priest of Ayodhya's Ram Temple He added that about 4,000 saints and 2,200 other guests have been invited for the ceremony. Heads of major temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Vaishno Devi, and representatives of religious and constitutional institutions have also been invited, he said. Spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Mata Amritanandamayi of Kerala, yoga guru Baba Ramdev, cine stars Rajnikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Madhuri Dixit, Arun Govil, film director Madhur Bhandarkar and prominent industrialists such as Mukesh Ambani, Anil Ambani, famous painter Vasudev Kamat, ISRO Director Nilesh Desai and many other eminent personalities have been invited to the function, Rai said. After the consecration ceremony, 'mandal puja' will be held from January 24 for 48 days as per ritual traditions. The temple will be opened for devotees on January 23, he added. ALSO READ | India: PM Modi to attend installation of Lord Ram's idol at Ayodhya temple in historic ceremony on Jan 22 Mr Rai said that proper arrangements have been made for the guests to stay at more than three places in Ayodhya. Apart from this, 600 rooms have been made available by various monasteries, temples and household families. Meanwhile, authorities of the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation said they have begun preparing for the consecration ceremony. Speaking to PTI, Municipal Commissioner Vishal Singh said that fibre toilets will be installed for devotees and changing rooms will be set up for women at designated places. The 'Ram Katha Kunj' corridor will be built in the Ram Janmabhoomi complex which would showcase tableaux displaying 108 events from Lord Ram's life, he said.

India: BJP veterans LK Advani, MM Joshi ‘requested not to come’ for Ram Temple event

<p>Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal. In other news, the death toll due to the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that jolted the northwest part of China had risen to 126, as of the last update.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putin-says-russia-upgrading-nuclear-arsenal-amid-hybrid-war-with-west-671399"><strong>Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid 'hybrid war' with West</strong></a></p>

<p>Vladimir Putin told the conference of senior defence officials on Tuesday (Dec 19) that Russia is upgrading its nuclear arsenal amid its ongoing war against Ukraine and Western fears of nuclear conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/08/398022-russian-president-vladimir-putin.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-speaks-to-israels-netanyahu-urges-for-early-restoration-of-peace-671389"><strong>PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace'</strong></a></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace".</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/12/38535-modi-netanyahu-20180115012736-20180116102434.JPG?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-more-than-110-people-have-been-killed-after-earthquake-in-gansu-province-671082"><strong>China: Death toll rises to at least 126 after earthquake in Gansu province</strong></a></p>

<p>At least 126&nbsp;people have been killed after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county in northwest China, reported the country’s state media, on Tuesday (Dec 19).</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/19/400150-wion-images-2023-12-19t140511683.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

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<p>A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky.&nbsp;The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks.</p>

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<p>Tech giant Google's parent company Alphabet has agreed to pay $700 million to settle an antitrust case with US states and consumers filed in federal court on Monday (Dec 18).</p>

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<p>The air quality in Australia's East Coast city of Sydney plummeted to levels comparable to New Delhi, the Indian capital and one of the world's most polluted metropolises.</p>

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<p>The government of the western Indian state of Maharashtra has given a go-ahead for a broad proposal to create a new city, 'Third Mumbai'. Mumbai, state capital of Maharashtra, has been a major financial centre in the peninsula for over a century.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Marvel Studios has severed ties with Jonathan Majors following his conviction for assaulting and harassing Grace Jabbari, his former girlfriend. The actor, renowned for portraying the supervillain&nbsp;<em>Kang the Conqueror</em>&nbsp;in the Disney+ series&nbsp;<em>Loki</em>, had been a key figure in Marvel's Phase Five plans.</p>

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Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal.

Days after announcing that Russia was expanding its troops size, President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Dec 19) said the country was also upgrading its nuclear arsenal. In other news, the death toll due to the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that jolted the northwest part of China had risen to 126, as of the last update. Click on headlines to read more: Vladimir Putin says Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal amid 'hybrid war' with West Vladimir Putin told the conference of senior defence officials on Tuesday (Dec 19) that Russia is upgrading its nuclear arsenal amid its ongoing war against Ukraine and Western fears of nuclear conflict. PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace". China: Death toll rises to at least 126 after earthquake in Gansu province At least 126 people have been killed after a 6.2 magnitude earthquake jolted a remote and mountainous county in northwest China, reported the country’s state media, on Tuesday (Dec 19). Iceland volcano is ejecting enough lava to fill olympic swimming pool in 20 seconds A volcano in Iceland erupted on Tuesday (Dec 19) sending molten lava in the sky. The eruption in southwest Iceland took place after the region rumbled due to earthquakes for weeks. Teachers in UK don't have to address students by their preferred pronouns under new guidance Under the new guidance released by the UK Department of Education, teachers in the country have been told they do not have to address students by their chosen pronouns. Google to cough up $700mn as part of Play Store antitrust settlement, week after defeat against Epic Games Tech giant Google's parent company Alphabet has agreed to pay $700 million to settle an antitrust case with US states and consumers filed in federal court on Monday (Dec 18). Sydney and Delhi’s air quality on par after Duck Creek, Pilliga Forest bushfire The air quality in Australia's East Coast city of Sydney plummeted to levels comparable to New Delhi, the Indian capital and one of the world's most polluted metropolises. India: Maharashtra greenlights new city called 'Third Mumbai': Report The government of the western Indian state of Maharashtra has given a go-ahead for a broad proposal to create a new city, 'Third Mumbai'. Mumbai, state capital of Maharashtra, has been a major financial centre in the peninsula for over a century. IPL 2024 Auction: UNIMAGINABLE! Australia pacer Mitchell Starc goes to KKR for a MAMMOTH INR 24.75 crore After Pat Cummins broke the bank and went for a whopping INR 20.50 crore in IPL 2024 auction, in Dubai on Tuesday (Dec 19), his compatriot Mitchell Starc bettered the record as he was swooped up by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Marvel at crossroads: What's the future plans after Jonathan Majors' exit Marvel Studios has severed ties with Jonathan Majors following his conviction for assaulting and harassing Grace Jabbari, his former girlfriend. The actor, renowned for portraying the supervillain Kang the Conqueror in the Disney+ series Loki, had been a key figure in Marvel's Phase Five plans. Watch | US judge criticises Trump's expert witness, charged $1350 per hour on the case ×

Top 10 world news: Russia upgrading nuclear arsenal, China earthquake death toll mounts, and more

<p>The crisis in the Red Sea with continuing Houthi attacks, and the need for more Indian workers in Israel topped the focus during Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu's talks on Tuesday (Dec 19). The Red Sea shipping route has been disrupted due to attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, with fears of it leading to an escalation in global crude oil prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The two leaders discussed the importance of securing freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb, which is threatened by the aggression of the Houthis, instigated by Iran, and the global interest in preventing attacks on the global economy and trade, as well as the Indian and Israeli economies," the Israeli prime minister's office said in a readout.</p>

<p>The Indian readout mirrored these concerns, saying that "the two leaders shared concerns regarding the safety of maritime traffic," underscoring the critical nature of maintaining secure sea routes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to addressing the Red Sea crisis, the Israeli PM briefed the Indian side about the ongoing situation, concerning the&nbsp;Israel-Hamas conflict.</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Modi reiterated the need for continued humanitarian aid for the "affected population", which in this case is the people in Gaza and emphasized an "early and peaceful resolution of the conflict, including the release of all hostages, through dialogue and diplomacy".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-speaks-to-israels-netanyahu-urges-for-early-restoration-of-peace-671389"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace'</strong></a><br />
<br />
Following the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, Israel initiated a large-scale counteroffensive resulting in numerous casualties among Palestinians in Gaza. This has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in the strip. India sent humanitarian aid to people of Gaza via Egypt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli readout further revealed that the leaders "also discussed advancing the arrival of foreign workers from India to the State of Israel". &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indians-stand-firmly-with-israel-pm-modi-receives-update-from-netanyahu-amid-hamas-conflict-645101"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas 'Indians stand firmly with Israel': PM Modi receives update from Netanyahu amid Hamas conflict</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="lazy" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indians-stand-firmly-with-israel-pm-modi-receives-update-from-netanyahu-amid-hamas-conflict-645101/embed?autoplay=0" title="live tv" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>Israel aims to facilitate the entry of more Indian workers through government-to-government programmes, focussing on sectors such as caregiving, construction, and agriculture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a previous visit by the Israeli foreign minister to India, a framework agreement was signed with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to facilitate the recruitment of workers from India to Israel. In a move to address labour shortages, Israel has temporarily permitted its private sector a limited quota for foreign workers, including 5,000 in agriculture and 10,000 in construction over a three-month period.</p>


The crisis in the Red Sea with continuing Houthi attacks, and the need for more Indian workers in Israel topped the focus during Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu's talks on Tuesday (Dec 19).

The crisis in the Red Sea with continuing Houthi attacks, and the need for more Indian workers in Israel topped the focus during Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu's talks on Tuesday (Dec 19). The Red Sea shipping route has been disrupted due to attacks by Yemen-based Houthis, with fears of it leading to an escalation in global crude oil prices. "The two leaders discussed the importance of securing freedom of navigation in the Bab-el-Mandeb, which is threatened by the aggression of the Houthis, instigated by Iran, and the global interest in preventing attacks on the global economy and trade, as well as the Indian and Israeli economies," the Israeli prime minister's office said in a readout. The Indian readout mirrored these concerns, saying that "the two leaders shared concerns regarding the safety of maritime traffic," underscoring the critical nature of maintaining secure sea routes. In addition to addressing the Red Sea crisis, the Israeli PM briefed the Indian side about the ongoing situation, concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict. Indian Prime Minister Modi reiterated the need for continued humanitarian aid for the "affected population", which in this case is the people in Gaza and emphasized an "early and peaceful resolution of the conflict, including the release of all hostages, through dialogue and diplomacy". Also read | PM Modi speaks to Israel's Netanyahu, urges for 'early restoration of peace' Following the October 7 terrorist attack by Hamas, Israel initiated a large-scale counteroffensive resulting in numerous casualties among Palestinians in Gaza. This has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in the strip. India sent humanitarian aid to people of Gaza via Egypt. The Israeli readout further revealed that the leaders "also discussed advancing the arrival of foreign workers from India to the State of Israel". Watch | Gravitas 'Indians stand firmly with Israel': PM Modi receives update from Netanyahu amid Hamas conflict Israel aims to facilitate the entry of more Indian workers through government-to-government programmes, focussing on sectors such as caregiving, construction, and agriculture. During a previous visit by the Israeli foreign minister to India, a framework agreement was signed with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to facilitate the recruitment of workers from India to Israel. In a move to address labour shortages, Israel has temporarily permitted its private sector a limited quota for foreign workers, including 5,000 in agriculture and 10,000 in construction over a three-month period.

Red Sea shipping crisis, Indian workers top agenda in Modi-Netanyahu talks

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace". The war between Israel-Hamas has intensified after the second truce deal expired earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to inform about the conversation with Netanyahu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Had a productive exchange of views with PM @netanyahu on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, including shared concerns on the safety of maritime traffic," posted PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Highlighted India’s consistent stand in favour of early restoration of peace &amp; stability in the region with continued humanitarian assistance for the affected," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Had a productive exchange of views with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@netanyahu</a> on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, including shared concerns on the safety of maritime traffic. Highlighted India’s consistent stand in favour of early restoration of peace &amp; stability in the region with continued…</p>
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<p>PM Modi's conversation with Netanyahu comes less than a week after India voted in favour of a United Nations resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.</p>

<p>During the explanation of vote (EoV), India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj said India “welcomes” the fact that the international community had been able to find a “common ground” to address the situation in West Asia.</p>

<p>“Our challenge in this extraordinarily difficult time is to strike the right balance,” Kamboj added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, she stopped short of clarifying the reason for India’s decision to go against the US and Israel-backed resolution.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indians-stand-firmly-with-israel-pm-modi-receives-update-from-netanyahu-amid-hamas-conflict-645101"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas 'Indians stand firmly with Israel': PM Modi receives update from Netanyahu amid Hamas conflict</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>PM Modi's previous interaction with Netanyahu</strong></h2>

<p>Prior to Tuesday, PM Modi talked to Netanyahu in October, a couple of days after the dastardly October 7 attacks on Israeli soil by Hamas terrorists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi, who is known to share&nbsp;great camaraderie with Netanyahu, said that India stands “firmly with Israel in this difficult hour”, and condemned the terrorist attack.</p>

<p>“I thank Prime Minister @netanyahu for his phone call and providing an update on the ongoing situation. People of India stand firmly with Israel in this difficult hour. India strongly and unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations," PM Modi posted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-even-allies-ditch-us-as-153-nations-including-india-vote-in-favour-of-ceasefire-669206"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Israel-Gaza war: Even allies ditch US as 153 nations including India vote in favour of ceasefire</strong></a></p>

<p>While New Delhi bats for a ceasefire, Tel Aviv has vowed to finish the job by cleansing Gaza Strip of Hamas. Netanyahu, on multiple occasions, has claimed that the war would not end until Hamas is wiped out.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Dec 19) spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and highlighted New Delhi's stand in favour of ceasefire and "early restoration of peace". The war between Israel-Hamas has intensified after the second truce deal expired earlier this month. PM Modi took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to inform about the conversation with Netanyahu. "Had a productive exchange of views with PM @netanyahu on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, including shared concerns on the safety of maritime traffic," posted PM Modi. "Highlighted India’s consistent stand in favour of early restoration of peace & stability in the region with continued humanitarian assistance for the affected," he added. Had a productive exchange of views with PM @netanyahu on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, including shared concerns on the safety of maritime traffic. Highlighted India’s consistent stand in favour of early restoration of peace & stability in the region with continued… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 19, 2023 × PM Modi's conversation with Netanyahu comes less than a week after India voted in favour of a United Nations resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. During the explanation of vote (EoV), India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ruchira Kamboj said India “welcomes” the fact that the international community had been able to find a “common ground” to address the situation in West Asia. “Our challenge in this extraordinarily difficult time is to strike the right balance,” Kamboj added. However, she stopped short of clarifying the reason for India’s decision to go against the US and Israel-backed resolution. Watch | Gravitas 'Indians stand firmly with Israel': PM Modi receives update from Netanyahu amid Hamas conflict × PM Modi's previous interaction with Netanyahu Prior to Tuesday, PM Modi talked to Netanyahu in October, a couple of days after the dastardly October 7 attacks on Israeli soil by Hamas terrorists. Modi, who is known to share great camaraderie with Netanyahu, said that India stands “firmly with Israel in this difficult hour”, and condemned the terrorist attack. “I thank Prime Minister @netanyahu for his phone call and providing an update on the ongoing situation. People of India stand firmly with Israel in this difficult hour. India strongly and unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations," PM Modi posted. Also read | Israel-Gaza war: Even allies ditch US as 153 nations including India vote in favour of ceasefire While New Delhi bats for a ceasefire, Tel Aviv has vowed to finish the job by cleansing Gaza Strip of Hamas. Netanyahu, on multiple occasions, has claimed that the war would not end until Hamas is wiped out. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi speaks to Israel’s Netanyahu, urges for ‘early restoration of peace’

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the Opposition has been giving a "political spin" to the Parliament security breach — an event which should have been unequivocally condemned by everyone.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi's remarks came in the aftermath of unprecedented scenes of protests and bulk suspensions in Parliament over the security breach incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On December 13, two men disrupted the Indian Parliament when they set off a smoke canister inside the legislature in a major security breach after jumping onto the floor of the Lower House of the Parliament from an overhead visitors' gallery. They were carrying canisters which started emitting yellow smoke, which led to chaos in the House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspension-spree-continues-another-50-mps-booted-out-from-indian-parliament-671231">Indian Parliament suspension spree continues: 49 more MPs ejected, total rises to 141</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Quoting party sources, news agency ANI reported that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership said while addressing the Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday that the ongoing protests both inside and outside the Parliament were the Opposition's way of venting out its frustration&nbsp;after being routed in three of the five states that went to polls last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the last BJP's Parliamentary Party meeting, PM Modi said: "Whatever happened in Parliament recently, those who believe in democracy will not accept such an act. This act should have been condemned."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "However, unfortunately, what I have been witnessing is that the Opposition is letting out its frustration of losing in the election and giving a political spin to the entire act."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India's opposition bloc key meet underway amidst the mass suspension of MPs from Parliament&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>BJP's Parliamentary Party includes all its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members, and usually meets every week during sessions. The one that happened on Tuesday was probably the last of the year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi said the act of the Opposition of giving "muted and indirect support" to the Parliament security breach is worrisome.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bjp-veterans-lk-advani-mm-joshi-requested-not-to-come-for-ram-temple-event-671185">BJP veterans LK Advani, MM Joshi ‘requested not to come’ for Ram Temple event</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Opposition lawmakers have been disrupting the proceedings in both Houses demanding a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath, a total of 141 Members of Parliament, 95 from Lok Sabha and 46 from Rajya Sabha, were suspended since December 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Opposition members coming out in defence of the accused in the Parliament breach incident and making statements such as 'what else could they have done' is worrisome and condemnable," the sources quoted PM Modi as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the Opposition has been giving a "political spin" to the Parliament security breach — an event which should have been unequivocally condemned by everyone.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday (Dec 19) that the Opposition has been giving a "political spin" to the Parliament security breach — an event which should have been unequivocally condemned by everyone. PM Modi's remarks came in the aftermath of unprecedented scenes of protests and bulk suspensions in Parliament over the security breach incident. On December 13, two men disrupted the Indian Parliament when they set off a smoke canister inside the legislature in a major security breach after jumping onto the floor of the Lower House of the Parliament from an overhead visitors' gallery. They were carrying canisters which started emitting yellow smoke, which led to chaos in the House. Also read: Indian Parliament suspension spree continues: 49 more MPs ejected, total rises to 141 Quoting party sources, news agency ANI reported that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership said while addressing the Parliamentary Party meeting on Tuesday that the ongoing protests both inside and outside the Parliament were the Opposition's way of venting out its frustration after being routed in three of the five states that went to polls last month. At the last BJP's Parliamentary Party meeting, PM Modi said: "Whatever happened in Parliament recently, those who believe in democracy will not accept such an act. This act should have been condemned." He added, "However, unfortunately, what I have been witnessing is that the Opposition is letting out its frustration of losing in the election and giving a political spin to the entire act." Watch: India's opposition bloc key meet underway amidst the mass suspension of MPs from Parliament × BJP's Parliamentary Party includes all its Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members, and usually meets every week during sessions. The one that happened on Tuesday was probably the last of the year. PM Modi said the act of the Opposition of giving "muted and indirect support" to the Parliament security breach is worrisome. Also read: BJP veterans LK Advani, MM Joshi ‘requested not to come’ for Ram Temple event The Opposition lawmakers have been disrupting the proceedings in both Houses demanding a statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the incident. In the aftermath, a total of 141 Members of Parliament, 95 from Lok Sabha and 46 from Rajya Sabha, were suspended since December 14. "The Opposition members coming out in defence of the accused in the Parliament breach incident and making statements such as 'what else could they have done' is worrisome and condemnable," the sources quoted PM Modi as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi says Oppn frustrated after polls rout, hence giving ‘political spin’ to parliament security breach

<p>In a significant move, a real-time AI-based translation tool was used during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi on Sunday (Dec 18).</p>

<p>PM Modi, during his address, welcomed the participants at Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi and called them his family.</p>

<p>"Today, the use of new technology has taken place here through Artificial Intelligence (AI). This is a new beginning and hopefully, it makes it easier for me to reach you," PM Modi said at Kashi Tamil Sangamam.</p>

<p>The speech by the Indian prime minister was translated through 'Bhashini' for the ones who in the audience understood the Tamil language.</p>

<p>'Bhashini' is an AI-led language translation system that enables people to speak in their own language while talking to speakers of other Indian languages.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-clears-the-air-on-diplomatic-rows-in-us-canada-slams-un-security-council-as-old-club-670623">Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada, slams UNSC</a></p>

<p>The Indian Prime Minister further said that the Sengol, which was installed in the new Parliament building was brought from Tamil Nadu.</p>

<p>"This feeling of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' was also visible when we entered the new building of Parliament. The Sengol has been installed in the new Parliament building. Under the guidance of the saints of Adheenam, this same Sengol became the symbol of the transfer of power in 1947," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If you look at any civilization of the world, you will hardly find such a simple and superior form of intimacy in diversity anywhere. Even recently, during the G-20 Summit, the world was amazed to see this diversity of India," PM Modi added.</p>

<p>Calling India a nation of spiritual beliefs, he said the country is united by saints like Adi Shankaracharya and Ramanujacharya, "who awakened the national consciousness of India through their travels."</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2.0 at Namo Ghat. He also flagged off the Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express train that is bound to run between Kanyakumari and Varanasi.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


In a significant move, a real-time AI-based translation tool was used during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi on Sunday (Dec 18).

In a significant move, a real-time AI-based translation tool was used during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi on Sunday (Dec 18). PM Modi, during his address, welcomed the participants at Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi and called them his family. "Today, the use of new technology has taken place here through Artificial Intelligence (AI). This is a new beginning and hopefully, it makes it easier for me to reach you," PM Modi said at Kashi Tamil Sangamam. The speech by the Indian prime minister was translated through 'Bhashini' for the ones who in the audience understood the Tamil language. 'Bhashini' is an AI-led language translation system that enables people to speak in their own language while talking to speakers of other Indian languages. Also read: Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada, slams UNSC The Indian Prime Minister further said that the Sengol, which was installed in the new Parliament building was brought from Tamil Nadu. "This feeling of 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' was also visible when we entered the new building of Parliament. The Sengol has been installed in the new Parliament building. Under the guidance of the saints of Adheenam, this same Sengol became the symbol of the transfer of power in 1947," he added. "If you look at any civilization of the world, you will hardly find such a simple and superior form of intimacy in diversity anywhere. Even recently, during the G-20 Summit, the world was amazed to see this diversity of India," PM Modi added. Calling India a nation of spiritual beliefs, he said the country is united by saints like Adi Shankaracharya and Ramanujacharya, "who awakened the national consciousness of India through their travels." Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated Kashi Tamil Sangamam 2.0 at Namo Ghat. He also flagged off the Kashi Tamil Sangamam Express train that is bound to run between Kanyakumari and Varanasi. (With inputs from agencies)

AI-based translation tool used during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Varanasi

<p>Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries.</p>

<p>While speaking to the Canadian Press in a year-end interview, Trudeau said that the statement he made on September&nbsp;18 in the House of Commons was meant to place an extra 'level of deterrence' for India to refrain from carrying out such acts in the future.</p>

<p>He further said that he wanted the Canadians to know that the government was on top of the situation and proactively taking measures.</p>

<p>"Too many Canadians were worried that they were vulnerable," Trudeau said in the interview, adding that the Sikh community in British Columbia had been raising concerns since shortly after Nijjar was killed.</p>

<p>"We felt that all the quiet diplomacy and all the measures that we put in -- and ensured that our security services put in to keep people safe in the community, needed a further level of deterrence, perhaps of saying publicly and loudly that we know, or we have credible reasons to believe, that the Indian government was behind this," he said.</p>

<p>"And therefore put a chill on them continuing or considering doing anything like this," he added.</p>

<p>He also went on to claim that the Indian government chose to attack and undermine them with misinformation after he had made the allegations public and accused New Delhi of launching an information war.</p>

<p>"They chose to attack us and undermine us with a scale of misinformation and disinformation in their media that was comical," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fbi-aggressively-investigating-attack-on-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco-director-wray-tells-nia-668995">FBI 'aggressively investigating' attack on Indian Consulate in San Francisco: Director Wray</a></p>

<p>"(It) would have been more comical had it not had real implications for people's lives and relations between our two countries that are so deep in terms of people-to-people ties, and people depending on the flow of connections between us," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Difficult conversations'</strong></h2>

<p>Trudeau also stated that he raised the issue of Nijjar's killing with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi during his bilateral talks in September at the time of G20 in New Delhi and was hoping for the conversation to be constructive.</p>

<p>However, on being asked if the discussion with Modi on the issue was helpful, the Canadian Prime Minister replied with a "No".</p>

<p>"We knew it would be difficult conversation, but we also knew that this was an important moment for India to be demonstrating its leadership on the world stage with the G20," Trudeau said.</p>

<p>"And we felt that we could use that as a constructive opportunity to work together."</p>

<p>India's Ministry of External Affairs, which has recently constituted a high-level inquiry committee to probe the alleged murder plot against Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, maintains that Canada had given no evidence about its allegations and so the question of equitable treatment for the two countries does not arise.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a recent interview, has claimed that the allegations he levelled against India over its involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar were intended to "put a chill" on New Delhi amid strained diplomatic ties between the two countries. While speaking to the Canadian Press in a year-end interview, Trudeau said that the statement he made on September 18 in the House of Commons was meant to place an extra 'level of deterrence' for India to refrain from carrying out such acts in the future. He further said that he wanted the Canadians to know that the government was on top of the situation and proactively taking measures. "Too many Canadians were worried that they were vulnerable," Trudeau said in the interview, adding that the Sikh community in British Columbia had been raising concerns since shortly after Nijjar was killed. "We felt that all the quiet diplomacy and all the measures that we put in -- and ensured that our security services put in to keep people safe in the community, needed a further level of deterrence, perhaps of saying publicly and loudly that we know, or we have credible reasons to believe, that the Indian government was behind this," he said. "And therefore put a chill on them continuing or considering doing anything like this," he added. He also went on to claim that the Indian government chose to attack and undermine them with misinformation after he had made the allegations public and accused New Delhi of launching an information war. "They chose to attack us and undermine us with a scale of misinformation and disinformation in their media that was comical," he said. Also read: FBI 'aggressively investigating' attack on Indian Consulate in San Francisco: Director Wray "(It) would have been more comical had it not had real implications for people's lives and relations between our two countries that are so deep in terms of people-to-people ties, and people depending on the flow of connections between us," he added. 'Difficult conversations' Trudeau also stated that he raised the issue of Nijjar's killing with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi during his bilateral talks in September at the time of G20 in New Delhi and was hoping for the conversation to be constructive. However, on being asked if the discussion with Modi on the issue was helpful, the Canadian Prime Minister replied with a "No". "We knew it would be difficult conversation, but we also knew that this was an important moment for India to be demonstrating its leadership on the world stage with the G20," Trudeau said. "And we felt that we could use that as a constructive opportunity to work together." India's Ministry of External Affairs, which has recently constituted a high-level inquiry committee to probe the alleged murder plot against Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, maintains that Canada had given no evidence about its allegations and so the question of equitable treatment for the two countries does not arise. (With inputs from agencies)

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau claims he made allegations over Nijjar killing public to 'put a chill' on India

<p>A reference to the popular Netflix series Money Heist to slam alleged corruption by a Congress lawmaker.</p>

<p>Pictographs showing faces with tears of joy, and so many 'warning' emojis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These are passé if they appear on an influencer's social media feed. But the person here is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>The tone, tenor and colourful language in the recent social media outreach deployed by Modi ahead of the 2024 parliamentary elections haven't gone unnoticed.</p>

<p>The season of elections in South Asia will conclude in New Delhi's corridors of power in the summer of 2024. Bangladesh is voting in January, Pakistan in February and India by all tentative estimates, in April and&nbsp;May. The calendar is packed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the old-school election campaigns with chest-thumping rallies are expected to dominate the news cycle in the coming weeks, much of the electoral fate of the South Asian capitals remains deeply connected to the use of social media by the leaders in power and their principal challengers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-elections-2024-pm-sheikh-hasina-led-14-party-alliance-to-head-to-polls-667359">Bangladesh elections 2024: PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-nawaz-sharifs-pmln-faces-online-embarrassment-over-deleted-poll-656595">Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif's PML(N) faces online embarrassment over deleted poll</a></strong></p>

<p>Over 600 million eligible voters in India are aged between 18 to 35. The politicians are now adapting to the way youngsters — a massive voting block India — interact, and their methods of communication are partly redefining the politician-voter outreach in the world's biggest democracy.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-hails-four-state-election-results-as-victory-of-politics-of-development-665751">Indian PM Modi hails three-state election win as potential sign of third term in 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>Just within last week, the Indian Prime Minister Modi has stirred the pot on social media. First by posting a banner headline of a Hindi daily with a blend of tears of joy and 'warning emojis'.</p>

<p>"The countrymen should look at the pile of these notes and then listen to the honest 'speeches' of their leaders...," Modi wrote on X, formerly Twitter, while slamming the ₹350 Crore ($42mn) cash howl at the premises linked to opposition Congress party's&nbsp;lawmaker Dhiraj Sahu.</p>

<p>"Whatever has been looted from the public, every penny will have to be returned, this is Modi's guarantee," Modi posted on X.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">देशवासी इन नोटों के ढेर को देखें और फिर इनके नेताओं के ईमानदारी के 'भाषणों' को सुनें... 😂😂😂<br />
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जनता से जो लूटा है, उसकी पाई-पाई लौटानी पड़ेगी, यह मोदी की गारंटी है।<br />
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❌❌❌💵 💵 💵❌❌❌ <a href="https://t.co/O2pEA4QTOj">pic.twitter.com/O2pEA4QTOj</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1733040901457322300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>On December 12, Modi reposted a video published by the X handle of Bharatiya Janata Party which drew parallels between Sahu's cash howl with Spanish Netflix crime drama Money Heist. "In India, who needs 'Money Heist' fiction, when you have the Congress Party, whose heists are legendary for 70 years and counting!," Modi wrote.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In India, who needs 'Money Heist' fiction, when you have the Congress Party, whose heists are legendary for 70 years and counting! <a href="https://t.co/J70MCA5lcG">https://t.co/J70MCA5lcG</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1734477685865488725?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"He (Modi) is keeping it funny," said Adarsh Pandit, a New Delhi-based political strategist, when asked about the revamped social media outreach from Modi's account on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is how the people in their 20s or early 30s talk over social media. Most of our messages are just the emojis. Modi is simply bringing down his social media handles to the youth in the language they understand without being undignified."</p>

<p>Pandit, who was one of the key political strategists behind the BJP's win in the recently concluded state elections in central India's Chhattisgarh, added&nbsp;that taking on opposition through social media is not exclusively a Modi construct. "So many leaders in the West, be it Boris Johnson or Hillary Clinton use the social media to attack opposition black-and-white."</p>

<p>Pandit contends that Modi's revamped social media messaging is an attempt to ensure that the focus of national discussions ahead of 2024 polls "remains entirely on him."</p>

<p>But it's not just Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party who have deployed social media to target the younger demographics. The Opposition parties have blended viral trends and memes to attack Modi administration.</p>

<p>"Congress and Aam Aadmi Party have done quite well in their social media outreach," Pandit said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;"The BJP has frontrunner advantage," he added, noting&nbsp;that it's the distribution part of the social media outreach where the BJP has an edge over opposition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the early 2010s when the access to social media was beginning to shape up the public sphere in India, the BJP has created social media channels to distribute its messaging at "each and every polling booth".</p>

<p>"While the opposition can match the BJP on the content part. They have not been able to match against the distribution angle," Pandit said.</p>

<p>"That party structure is not there with any other party but the BJP. It is one thing to create good content but it is completely different to disseminate it to the basic of all levels. That's where the BJP wins," he added.&nbsp;</p>


A reference to the popular Netflix series Money Heist to slam alleged corruption by a Congress lawmaker. Pictographs showing faces with tears of joy, and so many 'warning' emojis.

A reference to the popular Netflix series Money Heist to slam alleged corruption by a Congress lawmaker. Pictographs showing faces with tears of joy, and so many 'warning' emojis. These are passé if they appear on an influencer's social media feed. But the person here is Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The tone, tenor and colourful language in the recent social media outreach deployed by Modi ahead of the 2024 parliamentary elections haven't gone unnoticed. The season of elections in South Asia will conclude in New Delhi's corridors of power in the summer of 2024. Bangladesh is voting in January, Pakistan in February and India by all tentative estimates, in April and May. The calendar is packed. While the old-school election campaigns with chest-thumping rallies are expected to dominate the news cycle in the coming weeks, much of the electoral fate of the South Asian capitals remains deeply connected to the use of social media by the leaders in power and their principal challengers. Also read | Bangladesh elections 2024: PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls Also read | Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif's PML(N) faces online embarrassment over deleted poll Over 600 million eligible voters in India are aged between 18 to 35. The politicians are now adapting to the way youngsters — a massive voting block India — interact, and their methods of communication are partly redefining the politician-voter outreach in the world's biggest democracy. Also read | Indian PM Modi hails three-state election win as potential sign of third term in 2024 Just within last week, the Indian Prime Minister Modi has stirred the pot on social media. First by posting a banner headline of a Hindi daily with a blend of tears of joy and 'warning emojis'. "The countrymen should look at the pile of these notes and then listen to the honest 'speeches' of their leaders...," Modi wrote on X, formerly Twitter, while slamming the ₹350 Crore ($42mn) cash howl at the premises linked to opposition Congress party's lawmaker Dhiraj Sahu. "Whatever has been looted from the public, every penny will have to be returned, this is Modi's guarantee," Modi posted on X. देशवासी इन नोटों के ढेर को देखें और फिर इनके नेताओं के ईमानदारी के 'भाषणों' को सुनें... 😂😂😂 जनता से जो लूटा है, उसकी पाई-पाई लौटानी पड़ेगी, यह मोदी की गारंटी है। ❌❌❌💵 💵 💵❌❌❌ pic.twitter.com/O2pEA4QTOj — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 8, 2023 × On December 12, Modi reposted a video published by the X handle of Bharatiya Janata Party which drew parallels between Sahu's cash howl with Spanish Netflix crime drama Money Heist. "In India, who needs 'Money Heist' fiction, when you have the Congress Party, whose heists are legendary for 70 years and counting!," Modi wrote. In India, who needs 'Money Heist' fiction, when you have the Congress Party, whose heists are legendary for 70 years and counting! https://t.co/J70MCA5lcG — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 12, 2023 × "He (Modi) is keeping it funny," said Adarsh Pandit, a New Delhi-based political strategist, when asked about the revamped social media outreach from Modi's account on X, formerly Twitter. "This is how the people in their 20s or early 30s talk over social media. Most of our messages are just the emojis. Modi is simply bringing down his social media handles to the youth in the language they understand without being undignified." Pandit, who was one of the key political strategists behind the BJP's win in the recently concluded state elections in central India's Chhattisgarh, added that taking on opposition through social media is not exclusively a Modi construct. "So many leaders in the West, be it Boris Johnson or Hillary Clinton use the social media to attack opposition black-and-white." Pandit contends that Modi's revamped social media messaging is an attempt to ensure that the focus of national discussions ahead of 2024 polls "remains entirely on him." But it's not just Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party who have deployed social media to target the younger demographics. The Opposition parties have blended viral trends and memes to attack Modi administration. "Congress and Aam Aadmi Party have done quite well in their social media outreach," Pandit said. "The BJP has frontrunner advantage," he added, noting that it's the distribution part of the social media outreach where the BJP has an edge over opposition. Since the early 2010s when the access to social media was beginning to shape up the public sphere in India, the BJP has created social media channels to distribute its messaging at "each and every polling booth". "While the opposition can match the BJP on the content part. They have not been able to match against the distribution angle," Pandit said. "That party structure is not there with any other party but the BJP. It is one thing to create good content but it is completely different to disseminate it to the basic of all levels. That's where the BJP wins," he added.

Indian PM Modi's new social media strategy: Emojis, elections, 'Money Heist'

<p>US President Joe Biden will not be coming to India for the Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest in January next year, according to multiple reports. The Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited the US leader to partake in the Republic Day celebrations, as part of New Delhi's plans to host the Quad leaders' summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi had invited Biden during their bilateral meeting on September 8 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti at the time confirmed that PM Modi had indeed extended the invitation.</p>

<p>With Biden expected to miss the event, it is highly unlikely that Quad Summit will go ahead&nbsp; in January.&nbsp;Earlier, New Delhi was looking to schedule the&nbsp;Quad Summit, which groups India, Australia, Japan and the US, on January 27.</p>

<p>According to sources, the&nbsp;Quad Summit is proposed to be held later in 2024 as the current dates do not work with all the Quad partners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-invites-us-president-biden-to-indias-2024-republic-day-celebrations-reveals-eric-garcetti-637970"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi invited President Biden to India's 2024 Republic Day, reveals US envoy Eric Garcetti</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Why is Biden not travelling to India?</strong></h2>

<p>Biden skipping the trip to India encapsulates the current relationship between the two nations. Ever since Washington called out New Delhi for attempting to kill Khalistani terrorist&nbsp;Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on US soil, the relations have taken a hit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US Justice Department has claimed that an Indian man,&nbsp;identified as Nikhil Gupta, arrested by Czech authorities in June, was behind the plot to kill Pannun. Consequently, the department opened an investigation against him while informing New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The insinuation that New Delhi was involved, came hot on the heels of Canada's PM Justin Trudeau making similar claims that India was involved in the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-pannun-plot-the-india-us-strategic-partnership-665515"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;The Pannun Plot: The India-U.S. strategic partnership</strong></a></p>

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<p>While the frosty relations over Pannun might be the reason for Biden's reluctance to travel to New Delhi, the White House is expected to use the State of the Union address that US presidents usually deliver in January, as an excuse for missing the trip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last US president to visit India for the January 26 celebrations was Barack Obama who visited in 2015. Speculations are rife that New Delhi might extend the chief guest invitation to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida or Australian PM Anthony Albanese - the other two Quad partners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden will not be coming to India for the Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest in January next year, according to multiple reports. The Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited the US leader to partake in the Republic Day celebrations, as part of New Delhi's plans to host the Quad leaders' summit.

US President Joe Biden will not be coming to India for the Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest in January next year, according to multiple reports. The Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited the US leader to partake in the Republic Day celebrations, as part of New Delhi's plans to host the Quad leaders' summit. Modi had invited Biden during their bilateral meeting on September 8 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti at the time confirmed that PM Modi had indeed extended the invitation. With Biden expected to miss the event, it is highly unlikely that Quad Summit will go ahead in January. Earlier, New Delhi was looking to schedule the Quad Summit, which groups India, Australia, Japan and the US, on January 27. According to sources, the Quad Summit is proposed to be held later in 2024 as the current dates do not work with all the Quad partners. Also read | PM Modi invited President Biden to India's 2024 Republic Day, reveals US envoy Eric Garcetti Why is Biden not travelling to India? Biden skipping the trip to India encapsulates the current relationship between the two nations. Ever since Washington called out New Delhi for attempting to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on US soil, the relations have taken a hit. The US Justice Department has claimed that an Indian man, identified as Nikhil Gupta, arrested by Czech authorities in June, was behind the plot to kill Pannun. Consequently, the department opened an investigation against him while informing New Delhi. The insinuation that New Delhi was involved, came hot on the heels of Canada's PM Justin Trudeau making similar claims that India was involved in the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Watch | The Pannun Plot: The India-U.S. strategic partnership × While the frosty relations over Pannun might be the reason for Biden's reluctance to travel to New Delhi, the White House is expected to use the State of the Union address that US presidents usually deliver in January, as an excuse for missing the trip. The last US president to visit India for the January 26 celebrations was Barack Obama who visited in 2015. Speculations are rife that New Delhi might extend the chief guest invitation to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida or Australian PM Anthony Albanese - the other two Quad partners. (With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden to not attend Republic Day celebrations in India; Quad meet postponed

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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the Supreme Court's verdict on the abrogation of Article 370 (which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir) by saying the court upheld the sovereignty and integrity of India. In <strong><a href="https://www.narendramodi.in/sc-verdict-on-article-370-has-strengthened-the-spirit-of-ek-bharat-shreshtha-bharat-576881">his blog published on Tuesday</a></strong> (Dec 12), Prime Minister Modi said that the Supreme Court rightly observed that his government's decision taken on August 5, 2019, was done with the purpose of enhancing constitutional integration and not disintegration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday, the Supreme Court said that Article 370 was only temporary. A five-judge constitution bench of the court unanimously upheld the validity of the Modi government's 2019 decision to abrogate the article. "It can be garnered from the historical context for the inclusion of Article 370 and the placement of Article 370 in Part XXI of the Constitution that it is a temporary provision," the bench said.</p>

<p>Modi said that the court's verdict strengthened the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’.</p>

<h2><strong>Here are the top points from PM's blog:</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> Prime Minister Modi said on Tuesday that Article 370 and Article 35 (A) (which empowered the J&amp;K legislature to define Kashmir's permanent residents and their special rights and privileges) were major obstacles. Both these articles ensured that the people of Jammu and Kashmir never got the rights and development that the rest of their fellow Indians got, Modi said.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> "Due to these Articles, a distance was created between people belonging to the same nation. Due to this distance, many people from our nation who wanted to work to solve the problems of Jammu and Kashmir were unable to do so even if they clearly felt the pain of the people there," Modi said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-how-supreme-court-dealt-with-article-370-by-answering-three-key-questions-668485">Explained: Article 370 - How India Supreme Court answered key questions on Kashmir special status</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> Modi said he had observed the Kashmir issue closely over the last several decades. "I had a nuanced understanding of the specifics and the complexities of the issue. Yet, I was crystal clear about one thing- that the people of Jammu and Kashmir want development and they want to contribute to the development of India based on their strengths and skills. They also want a better quality of life for their children, a life free from violence and uncertainty," he said.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> The Modi government gave primacy to three pillars while serving the Union Territory- understanding the citizens' concerns, building trust through supportive actions, and prioritising development, development and more development.</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> The prime minister further said that to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir's development journey, "our Government ministers would frequently go there and interact with people directly." Modi pointed out that these frequent visits played a crucial role in building goodwill in the Union Territory.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-does-justice-sk-kauls-separate-sentimental-ruling-on-article-370-means-668573">What does Justice SK Kaul's separate 'sentimental' ruling on Article 370 intend to achieve?</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> "From May 2014 to March 2019, over 150 ministerial visits took place. This is a record in itself. The special package of 2015 was a significant step in addressing the developmental needs of Jammu and Kashmir. It contained initiatives for infrastructure development, job creation, tourism promotion and support to the handicraft industry," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>&gt;</strong> "The historical day of 5th August is etched in the hearts and minds of every Indian. Our Parliament passed the historic decision to abrogate Article 370. Since then, much has changed in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. The judicial court verdict came in December 2023 but seeing the wave of development across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, the people’s court have given a resounding thumbs up to the Parliament’s decision of abolishing Articles 370 and 35(A) for four years now," he further said.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the Supreme Court's verdict on the abrogation of Article 370 (which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir) by saying the court upheld the sovereignty and integrity of India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the Supreme Court's verdict on the abrogation of Article 370 (which conferred special status to Jammu and Kashmir) by saying the court upheld the sovereignty and integrity of India. In his blog published on Tuesday (Dec 12), Prime Minister Modi said that the Supreme Court rightly observed that his government's decision taken on August 5, 2019, was done with the purpose of enhancing constitutional integration and not disintegration. On Monday, the Supreme Court said that Article 370 was only temporary. A five-judge constitution bench of the court unanimously upheld the validity of the Modi government's 2019 decision to abrogate the article. "It can be garnered from the historical context for the inclusion of Article 370 and the placement of Article 370 in Part XXI of the Constitution that it is a temporary provision," the bench said. Modi said that the court's verdict strengthened the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. Here are the top points from PM's blog: > Prime Minister Modi said on Tuesday that Article 370 and Article 35 (A) (which empowered the J&K legislature to define Kashmir's permanent residents and their special rights and privileges) were major obstacles. Both these articles ensured that the people of Jammu and Kashmir never got the rights and development that the rest of their fellow Indians got, Modi said. > "Due to these Articles, a distance was created between people belonging to the same nation. Due to this distance, many people from our nation who wanted to work to solve the problems of Jammu and Kashmir were unable to do so even if they clearly felt the pain of the people there," Modi said. Also read | Explained: Article 370 - How India Supreme Court answered key questions on Kashmir special status > Modi said he had observed the Kashmir issue closely over the last several decades. "I had a nuanced understanding of the specifics and the complexities of the issue. Yet, I was crystal clear about one thing- that the people of Jammu and Kashmir want development and they want to contribute to the development of India based on their strengths and skills. They also want a better quality of life for their children, a life free from violence and uncertainty," he said. > The Modi government gave primacy to three pillars while serving the Union Territory- understanding the citizens' concerns, building trust through supportive actions, and prioritising development, development and more development. > The prime minister further said that to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir's development journey, "our Government ministers would frequently go there and interact with people directly." Modi pointed out that these frequent visits played a crucial role in building goodwill in the Union Territory. Also read: What does Justice SK Kaul's separate 'sentimental' ruling on Article 370 intend to achieve? > "From May 2014 to March 2019, over 150 ministerial visits took place. This is a record in itself. The special package of 2015 was a significant step in addressing the developmental needs of Jammu and Kashmir. It contained initiatives for infrastructure development, job creation, tourism promotion and support to the handicraft industry," he said. > "The historical day of 5th August is etched in the hearts and minds of every Indian. Our Parliament passed the historic decision to abrogate Article 370. Since then, much has changed in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. The judicial court verdict came in December 2023 but seeing the wave of development across Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, the people’s court have given a resounding thumbs up to the Parliament’s decision of abolishing Articles 370 and 35(A) for four years now," he further said.

Supreme Court verdict on Article 370 upholds India's sovereignty and integrity: PM Modi

<p>India’s national ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has declared Vishnu Deo Sai as the new chief minister of&nbsp;Chhattisgarh, a central Indian state that recently went into polls.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP emerged victorious in the polls, winning 54 seats out of 90. The incumbent Congress party was reduced to just 35 seats while the regional party Gondwana Gantantra Party (GGP) managed to win just one seat.</p>

<h2><strong>Decision taken in Sunday meeting</strong></h2>

<p>The decision to elect Vishnu Deo Sai as the next CM was made in the BJP's legislative party meeting held on Sunday (Dec 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the party had selected Union ministers Arjun Munda, Sarbananda Sonowal and BJP general secretary Dushyant Gautam as observers for the state, entrusted with the responsibility of selecting the new CM.</p>

<p>According to sources, the elected legislators jointly agreed to make Vishnu Deo Sai, a tribal leader, the state’s new chief minister.</p>

<p>All three observers, elected MLAs and former chief minister of the state Raman Singh were present in the meeting.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Vishnu Deo Sai?</strong></h2>

<p>Vishnu Deo Sai, a tribal leader, is BJP's former state chief and a former Union minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He held the position of State President of the BJP for Chhattisgarh from 2020 to 2022. He is also known to have close links with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), an Indian nationalist movement and the ideological&nbsp;fountainhead&nbsp;of BJP.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/who-will-be-chhattisgarh-cm-bjps-5-probable-candidates-1701618706905"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Who Will Be Chhattisgarh CM? BJP’s 5 Probable Candidates</strong></a></p>

<p>He was also the Minister of State (MoS) for Steel, Mines, Labour and Employment in&nbsp;the first Narendra Modi Cabinet.</p>

<p>Deo won four consecutive Lok Sabha elections from the Raigarh constituency in 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi at BJP headquarters: 'People of Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and MP have shown their love'</strong></p>

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<p>It is to be noted that BJP had contested the 2023 Chhattisgarh Assembly polls without declaring any CM face.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India’s national ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has declared Vishnu Deo Sai as the new chief minister of Chhattisgarh, a central Indian state that recently went into polls.

India’s national ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has declared Vishnu Deo Sai as the new chief minister of Chhattisgarh, a central Indian state that recently went into polls. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP emerged victorious in the polls, winning 54 seats out of 90. The incumbent Congress party was reduced to just 35 seats while the regional party Gondwana Gantantra Party (GGP) managed to win just one seat. Decision taken in Sunday meeting The decision to elect Vishnu Deo Sai as the next CM was made in the BJP's legislative party meeting held on Sunday (Dec 10). Earlier, the party had selected Union ministers Arjun Munda, Sarbananda Sonowal and BJP general secretary Dushyant Gautam as observers for the state, entrusted with the responsibility of selecting the new CM. According to sources, the elected legislators jointly agreed to make Vishnu Deo Sai, a tribal leader, the state’s new chief minister. All three observers, elected MLAs and former chief minister of the state Raman Singh were present in the meeting. Who is Vishnu Deo Sai? Vishnu Deo Sai, a tribal leader, is BJP's former state chief and a former Union minister. He held the position of State President of the BJP for Chhattisgarh from 2020 to 2022. He is also known to have close links with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), an Indian nationalist movement and the ideological fountainhead of BJP. Also read: Who Will Be Chhattisgarh CM? BJP’s 5 Probable Candidates He was also the Minister of State (MoS) for Steel, Mines, Labour and Employment in the first Narendra Modi Cabinet. Deo won four consecutive Lok Sabha elections from the Raigarh constituency in 1999, 2004, 2009 and 2014. Watch: PM Modi at BJP headquarters: 'People of Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and MP have shown their love' × It is to be noted that BJP had contested the 2023 Chhattisgarh Assembly polls without declaring any CM face. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Vishnu Deo Sai? BJP’s newly-picked chief minister for Chhattisgarh state

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dominated the Global Leader Approval ratings, topping at 76 per cent. The second-highest approval rating is held by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at 66 per cent, followed by Switzerland President Alain Berset at 58 per cent.</p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Dec 8) &nbsp;unveiled a $3 billion investment for a high-speed rail project to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles. This rail project would reduce the trip (from LA to Las Vegas and Las Vegas to LA) time from seven hours to just three hours.</p>

<p>In other news from around the world, North Korea warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches soon to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-dominates-global-leader-approval-ratings-tops-the-chart-with-impressive-76-percent-667794"><strong>Indian PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, tops the chart with impressive 76 percent</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/18/373908-pm-modi.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain a global frontrunner in global leadership approval, boasting an impressive 76 per cent rating, as revealed by the latest survey conducted by Morning Consult.&nbsp;This commanding approval rating placed Prime Minister Modi ahead of other world leaders, who are trailing behind by a huge margin.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-biden-unveils-3-billion-investment-for-la-las-vegas-high-speed-rail-project-667792"><strong>US President Biden unveils $3 billion investment for LA-Las Vegas high-speed rail project</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398140-untitled-design.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Dec 8) unveiled a $3 billion investment for a high-speed rail project to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles.&nbsp;He pointed out that the new rail project will reduce the trip (from LA to Las Vegas and Las Vegas to LA) time from seven hours to just three hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-boasts-of-satellite-capability-warns-to-launch-more-soon-667790"><strong>North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/09/398139-succession-2023-12-09t074906804.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>North Korea has warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches in the coming months in order to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies, a commentary carried by state news agency KCNA said on Saturday (Dec 9).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-michigan-shool-shooter-sentenced-to-life-in-prison-without-parole-667787"><strong>Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole​​​​​​​</strong></a></p>

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<p>An American teenager, who shot dead four of his classmates in 2021 at a high school outside Detroit, was on Friday (Dec 8) sentenced to life imprisonment without parole.&nbsp;Ethan Crumbley had opened fire on Nov 30 2021 with a semi-automatic handgun that his father bought as a Christmas gift days before the incident occurred.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;US bars imports from 3 more Chinese companies over Uyghur forced labour</strong></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dominated the Global Leader Approval ratings, topping at 76 per cent. The second-highest approval rating is held by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at 66 per cent, followed by Switzerland President Alain Berset at 58 per cent.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dominated the Global Leader Approval ratings, topping at 76 per cent. The second-highest approval rating is held by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador at 66 per cent, followed by Switzerland President Alain Berset at 58 per cent. United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Dec 8) unveiled a $3 billion investment for a high-speed rail project to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles. This rail project would reduce the trip (from LA to Las Vegas and Las Vegas to LA) time from seven hours to just three hours. In other news from around the world, North Korea warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches soon to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies. Click on the headlines to read more: Indian PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, tops the chart with impressive 76 percent Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to remain a global frontrunner in global leadership approval, boasting an impressive 76 per cent rating, as revealed by the latest survey conducted by Morning Consult. This commanding approval rating placed Prime Minister Modi ahead of other world leaders, who are trailing behind by a huge margin. US President Biden unveils $3 billion investment for LA-Las Vegas high-speed rail project United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Dec 8) unveiled a $3 billion investment for a high-speed rail project to connect Las Vegas and Los Angeles. He pointed out that the new rail project will reduce the trip (from LA to Las Vegas and Las Vegas to LA) time from seven hours to just three hours. North Korea boasts of satellite capability, warns to launch more soon North Korea has warned that it would carry more spy satellite launches in the coming months in order to gather more information about the military activities of its enemies, a commentary carried by state news agency KCNA said on Saturday (Dec 9). Michigan school shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole An American teenager, who shot dead four of his classmates in 2021 at a high school outside Detroit, was on Friday (Dec 8) sentenced to life imprisonment without parole. Ethan Crumbley had opened fire on Nov 30 2021 with a semi-automatic handgun that his father bought as a Christmas gift days before the incident occurred. Watch | US bars imports from 3 more Chinese companies over Uyghur forced labour ×

Morning brief: Indian PM Modi dominates Global Leader Approval ratings, and more

<p>The show of bilateral bonhomie between Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, first seen during Meloni's New Delhi visit in March 2023, has not just <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-pm-giorgia-melonis-melodi-selfie-with-indian-pm-narendra-modi-breaks-internet-665269">taken over the internet</a> but also the corridors of power in New Delhi and Rome. The bilateral relationship between the two countries stands elevated to the level of strategic partnership since March, with Rome's naval experience in Adriatic Sea adding to India's strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But all was not well between India and Italy.</p>

<p>While the two countries have shared warmer ties since India achieved freedom from the British Empire in 1947, the bilateral frost came in 2012 when two Italian marines were accused of killing two Indian fishermen near the coast line of southern state of Kerala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The marines claimed they mistook the fishermen for pirates, and Italy argued the fishermen failed to heed warnings to stay away from the MV Enrica Lexie tanker. The two were arrested and charged with murder.</p>

<p>The case was moved from Kerala to New Delhi. It blew up. The marines stayed on at the Italian embassy complex while the trial went on.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With a pending trial, the two marines were allowed to return to Italy.</p>

<p>In 2015, New Delhi and Rome took the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Netherlands' Hague.</p>

<p>The PCA ordered Italy to pay ₹100mn in compensation to India "for loss of life".</p>

<p>Finally, the case was closed in 2021.</p>

<h2><strong>India-Italy relations: Effort to repair ties before 'Melodi' bonhomie</strong></h2>

<p>In September 2016, India's then foreign minister Sushma Swaraj led an official delegation for the canonisation ceremony of Albanian-Indian social reformer Mother Teresa at the Vatican City. While the Catholic mass at St Peter's square presided over by Pope Francis had an obvious religious fervour, the corridors of diplomacy witnessed a crucial bilateral breakthrough between India's foreign minister Sushma Swaraj and her Italian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni.&nbsp;<img alt="Former Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj (centre) along with former minister for food processing industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal in Vatican City" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d6ee272-fe9c-42f1-bb69-2b021d87125a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-08T200257.568.png" /></p>

<p><em>Former Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj (centre) along with former minister for food processing industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal in Vatican City | Agencies</em></p>

<p>Swaraj and Gentiloni decided that their countries will celebrate the 70th year of India-Italy diplomatic ties. In 2018, the India-Italy ties were celebrated with cultural events in both India and Italy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In December 2019, during the second tenure of Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the current foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Rome and met the predecessor of Giorgia Meloni, the then Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar's Italy visit in December 2019 took place months after Italy -- in March 2019 -- became the only G7 nation to join China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is a transcontinental Chinese connectivity project India has opposed since it passes through a part of India's Jammu and Kashmir under Pakistani and Chinese occupation respectively.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The foundation was laid for an upcoming India-Italy summit in 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid Covid pandemic, a virtual India-Italy summit was held in November 2020. The summit saw the adoption of 2020-2025 Action Plan which further established the ambitious agenda for an enhanced partnership between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 15 Memorandums of Understanding covering areas like energy, media, finance, and ship building were signed.</p>

<p>The two sides "underscored the need to further expand defence engagement through greater two-way collaboration and technology cooperation, co-development and co-production, by expediting discussions through the Joint Defence Committee and Military Cooperation Group".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-Italy ties: The 'melodi' bonhomie</strong></h2>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his first official visit to Italy in October 2021 to attend the G20 leaders’ summit. On the sidelines of the Summit, he held a bilateral meeting with then PM Mario Draghi in which the two leaders "exchanged views on bilateral relations as well as international and regional issues of mutual interest".</p>

<p>In&nbsp;March&nbsp;2023, the newly elected Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid a state visit to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meloni and Modi held discussions on promoting green economy, energy security and transition, defence co-production and co-innovation, and the blue economy.</p>

<p>The top outcome of Meloni's state visit was the elevation of the bilateral relationship to the level of Strategic Partnership. A startup bridge between Indian and Italian startup companies was also established.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides, it was was during her March visit to India when&nbsp;Meloni praised Modi as "the most loved leader" of the world. The netizens then held on to that snippet and 'Melodi' (the fusion of the last names of two prime ministers) came into vogue.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-pm-giorgia-melonis-melodi-selfie-with-indian-pm-narendra-modi-breaks-internet-665269">Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's 'Melodi' selfie with Indian PM Narendra Modi breaks internet</a></strong></p>

<p>The 'Melodi' continued to be a social media catchphrase during G20 summit which India hosted in September 2023 and achieved a new height of popularity last week when Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni posted a selfie of herself with Modi by using the hashtag: #Melodi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The selfie, clicked on the sidelines of the COP28 meet in Dubai, was captioned by Meloni: "Good friends at COP28. #Melodi".</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Melodi Selfie | Indian PM Modi reacts to 'Melodi' selfie</strong></p>

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<p>Modi reposted the picture, writing: “Meeting friends is always a delight.”</p>

<h2><strong>India-Italy relations: The China factor</strong></h2>

<p>India and Italy were on the same page when a consensus was reached on India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor, widely hailed as a response to China's Belt and Road Initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/delhi-g20-modi-biden-mbs-launch-inter-continent-economic-corridor-to-outfox-chinas-bri-634176">G20 Delhi summit: Why India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor is a 'real big deal'</a></strong></p>

<p>Italy's move to pull itself out of the Belt and Road Initiative this month has brought a specific bilateral convergence in terms of Rome and New Delhi's shared interests on global connectivity.</p>


The show of bilateral bonhomie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, first seen during Meloni's New Delhi visit in March 2023, has not just taken over the internet but also the corridors of power in New Delhi and Rome.

The show of bilateral bonhomie between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, first seen during Meloni's New Delhi visit in March 2023, has not just taken over the internet but also the corridors of power in New Delhi and Rome. The bilateral relationship between the two countries stands elevated to the level of strategic partnership since March, with Rome's naval experience in Adriatic Sea adding to India's strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific. But all was not well between India and Italy. While the two countries have shared warmer ties since India achieved freedom from the British Empire in 1947, the bilateral frost came in 2012 when two Italian marines were accused of killing two Indian fishermen near the coast line of southern state of Kerala. The marines claimed they mistook the fishermen for pirates, and Italy argued the fishermen failed to heed warnings to stay away from the MV Enrica Lexie tanker. The two were arrested and charged with murder. The case was moved from Kerala to New Delhi. It blew up. The marines stayed on at the Italian embassy complex while the trial went on. With a pending trial, the two marines were allowed to return to Italy. In 2015, New Delhi and Rome took the case to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Netherlands' Hague. The PCA ordered Italy to pay ₹100mn in compensation to India "for loss of life". Finally, the case was closed in 2021. India-Italy relations: Effort to repair ties before 'Melodi' bonhomie In September 2016, India's then foreign minister Sushma Swaraj led an official delegation for the canonisation ceremony of Albanian-Indian social reformer Mother Teresa at the Vatican City. While the Catholic mass at St Peter's square presided over by Pope Francis had an obvious religious fervour, the corridors of diplomacy witnessed a crucial bilateral breakthrough between India's foreign minister Sushma Swaraj and her Italian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni. Former Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj (centre) along with former minister for food processing industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal in Vatican City | Agencies Swaraj and Gentiloni decided that their countries will celebrate the 70th year of India-Italy diplomatic ties. In 2018, the India-Italy ties were celebrated with cultural events in both India and Italy. In December 2019, during the second tenure of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the current foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Rome and met the predecessor of Giorgia Meloni, the then Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte. Jaishankar's Italy visit in December 2019 took place months after Italy -- in March 2019 -- became the only G7 nation to join China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is a transcontinental Chinese connectivity project India has opposed since it passes through a part of India's Jammu and Kashmir under Pakistani and Chinese occupation respectively. The foundation was laid for an upcoming India-Italy summit in 2020. Amid Covid pandemic, a virtual India-Italy summit was held in November 2020. The summit saw the adoption of 2020-2025 Action Plan which further established the ambitious agenda for an enhanced partnership between the two countries. A total of 15 Memorandums of Understanding covering areas like energy, media, finance, and ship building were signed. The two sides "underscored the need to further expand defence engagement through greater two-way collaboration and technology cooperation, co-development and co-production, by expediting discussions through the Joint Defence Committee and Military Cooperation Group". India-Italy ties: The 'melodi' bonhomie Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his first official visit to Italy in October 2021 to attend the G20 leaders’ summit. On the sidelines of the Summit, he held a bilateral meeting with then PM Mario Draghi in which the two leaders "exchanged views on bilateral relations as well as international and regional issues of mutual interest". In March 2023, the newly elected Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid a state visit to India. Meloni and Modi held discussions on promoting green economy, energy security and transition, defence co-production and co-innovation, and the blue economy. The top outcome of Meloni's state visit was the elevation of the bilateral relationship to the level of Strategic Partnership. A startup bridge between Indian and Italian startup companies was also established. Besides, it was was during her March visit to India when Meloni praised Modi as "the most loved leader" of the world. The netizens then held on to that snippet and 'Melodi' (the fusion of the last names of two prime ministers) came into vogue. Also read | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's 'Melodi' selfie with Indian PM Narendra Modi breaks internet The 'Melodi' continued to be a social media catchphrase during G20 summit which India hosted in September 2023 and achieved a new height of popularity last week when Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni posted a selfie of herself with Modi by using the hashtag: #Melodi. The selfie, clicked on the sidelines of the COP28 meet in Dubai, was captioned by Meloni: "Good friends at COP28. #Melodi". Also watch | Melodi Selfie | Indian PM Modi reacts to 'Melodi' selfie × Modi reposted the picture, writing: “Meeting friends is always a delight.” India-Italy relations: The China factor India and Italy were on the same page when a consensus was reached on India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor, widely hailed as a response to China's Belt and Road Initiative. Also read | G20 Delhi summit: Why India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor is a 'real big deal' Italy's move to pull itself out of the Belt and Road Initiative this month has brought a specific bilateral convergence in terms of Rome and New Delhi's shared interests on global connectivity.

Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged his party leaders to drop "Ji" from his name while addressing him and just call him as Modi. His candid request to the leaders came as the prime minister is of the view that adding "Ji", a Hindi word commonly added to a person's first or last name to denote respect, will distance him from the common people of India.&nbsp;"Don't distance me from the public by making me 'Modi ji'. I am Modi," PM Modi reportedly said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Modi Ji" is often used by top leaders of the party and other party workers to refer to the prime minister in public discourse, such as news channel debates and party events.&nbsp;PM Modi's request to the leaders came as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was holding its parliamentary party meeting having secured a resounding victory in three out of four state elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Balayogi Auditorium in the Parliament House complex, where the meeting took place, was filled with the&nbsp;chants of "Modi ji ka swagat hai" (translates in English as - We welcome PM Modi) coupled with loud applause.</p>

<p>While the prime minister was given a standing ovation by the leaders present at the meeting, Modi credited all of them for the win saying that it was not anyone's personal victory but was rather a collective win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cash-for-query-ethics-committee-report-against-mp-mahua-moitra-tabled-in-lower-house-667495">India: 'Cash for query' ethics committee report against MP Mahua Moitra tabled in lower house</a></p>

<p>Many senior leaders were present at the party meeting which also saw the presence of BJP president Jagat Prakash Nadda, who felicitated the PM at the meeting.&nbsp;This was the BJP's first Parliamentary party meeting as Parliament's winter session kicked off on December 4 and is scheduled to continue till December 22.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-shifts-focus-from-ethanol-to-sugar-production-amid-supply-concerns-667476">India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns&nbsp;</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Hard work of all party workers': PM Modi&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>While addressing media personnel following the meet, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi said, "During the BJP Parliamentary party meeting today, PM Modi said it was the result of the hard work of all the party workers that the BJP achieved a massive victory in three states."</p>

<p>"The PM appreciated everyone's work. He also said that all BJP MPs and ministers have to participate in Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra from December 22 to 25 January," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-and-australias-bid-to-boost-strategic-cooperation-662556">India and Australia's bid to boost strategic cooperation</a></strong></p>

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<p>While quoting PM Modi, Joshi added that the Congress party faced elections 40 times in states and got success only on seven occasions whereas BJP got a chance to seek a repeat mandate 39 times and got success on 22 occasions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our percentage is 56 per cent and Congress'&nbsp;is 18 per cent. Thus the figures prove that people's biggest choice now is BJP," Joshi added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged his party leaders to drop "Ji" from his name while addressing him and just call him as Modi. His candid request to the leaders came as the prime minister is of the view that adding "Ji", a Hindi word commonly added to a person's first or last name to denote respect, will distance him from the common people of India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged his party leaders to drop "Ji" from his name while addressing him and just call him as Modi. His candid request to the leaders came as the prime minister is of the view that adding "Ji", a Hindi word commonly added to a person's first or last name to denote respect, will distance him from the common people of India. "Don't distance me from the public by making me 'Modi ji'. I am Modi," PM Modi reportedly said. "Modi Ji" is often used by top leaders of the party and other party workers to refer to the prime minister in public discourse, such as news channel debates and party events. PM Modi's request to the leaders came as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was holding its parliamentary party meeting having secured a resounding victory in three out of four state elections. Balayogi Auditorium in the Parliament House complex, where the meeting took place, was filled with the chants of "Modi ji ka swagat hai" (translates in English as - We welcome PM Modi) coupled with loud applause. While the prime minister was given a standing ovation by the leaders present at the meeting, Modi credited all of them for the win saying that it was not anyone's personal victory but was rather a collective win. Also Read | India: 'Cash for query' ethics committee report against MP Mahua Moitra tabled in lower house Many senior leaders were present at the party meeting which also saw the presence of BJP president Jagat Prakash Nadda, who felicitated the PM at the meeting. This was the BJP's first Parliamentary party meeting as Parliament's winter session kicked off on December 4 and is scheduled to continue till December 22. Also Read | India shifts focus from ethanol to sugar production amid supply concerns 'Hard work of all party workers': PM Modi While addressing media personnel following the meet, Union Minister Prahlad Joshi said, "During the BJP Parliamentary party meeting today, PM Modi said it was the result of the hard work of all the party workers that the BJP achieved a massive victory in three states." "The PM appreciated everyone's work. He also said that all BJP MPs and ministers have to participate in Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra from December 22 to 25 January," he added. Watch | India and Australia's bid to boost strategic cooperation × While quoting PM Modi, Joshi added that the Congress party faced elections 40 times in states and got success only on seven occasions whereas BJP got a chance to seek a repeat mandate 39 times and got success on 22 occasions. "Our percentage is 56 per cent and Congress' is 18 per cent. Thus the figures prove that people's biggest choice now is BJP," Joshi added. (With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to bridge gap with common Indians, PM Modi requests party leaders to drop 'Ji' from his name

<p>In yet another show of bilateral bonhomie between Moscow and New Delhi amid war in Ukraine,&nbsp; Russian&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Putin, who had visited India in December 2021 just a few weeks before he announced an offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, said that the relations between Russia and India are "consistently developing in all areas".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"First of all, let me say that the relations between Russia and India are consistently developing in all areas. And the main guarantor for that is the policy led by Prime Minister Modi," Putin said during 'Russia Calling Investment Forum' in St. Petersburg.&nbsp;<img alt="Russian President Vladimir Putin during plenary session of the 'Russia Calling!' | The Kremlin" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e0d69a8-20d9-49f3-b4c6-15fc29b512c9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-07T202429.643.png" /></p>

<p><em>Russian President Vladimir Putin during plenary session of the 'Russia Calling!' | The Kremlin</em></p>

<p>"I cannot imagine His Excellency Modi getting intimidated or being forced to take any steps or actions that would go against the national interests of India and the people of India," Putin said, in an indirect reference to India buying Russian oil despite war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russian President Vladimir Putin praises India. Says, PM Modi despite pressure on him, took action which are in interest of India (buying Russian Oil).<br />
<br />
Vdo ctsy: Sputnik <a href="https://t.co/C6cQ1Eh28Z">pic.twitter.com/C6cQ1Eh28Z</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1732753535534821720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"There is pressure against him. I am aware of that," Putin added.</p>

<h2><strong>India-Russia ties amid war in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Russia's crude oil exports to India have gone above 60 million barrels per month as of August 2023, about 18 months into war in Ukraine. India&nbsp;accounts for nearly a quarter of Russia’s crude and refined oil exports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-crude-oil-exports-to-india-gave-moscow-far-more-money-than-previously-recognised-625387">Russia's crude oil exports to India gave Moscow far more money than previously recognised</a></strong></p>

<p>The Russian custom records <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-crude-oil-exports-to-india-gave-moscow-far-more-money-than-previously-recognised-625387">from December 2022 to the end of June 2023</a> put out average price of crude oil shipped to India at around $50 per barrel against the European Union's&nbsp;$60 per barrel price cap.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New Delhi has staunchly defended its purchase of Russian oil when accused by the West of 'funding the war in Ukraine'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia tops India's oil suppliers | World DNA</strong></p>

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<p>"Europe has managed to reduce its imports while doing it in a manner that is comfortable. If at a (per capita income) of €60,000, you are so caring about your population, I have a population of $2,000 per capita income. I also need energy, and I am not in a position to pay high prices for oil," India's foreign minister Dr S. Jaishankar had said in January 2023.</p>

<p>Besides, the defence cooperation is an important pillar of the India-Russia strategic partnership. It is guided by the Agreement on the Programme for Military Technical Cooperation signed between the two countries. The Agreement for 2021-2031 was signed during the inaugural meeting of India-Russia 2+2 Dialogue which was held in Delhi on 6th December 2021.</p>


In yet another show of bilateral bonhomie between Moscow and New Delhi amid war in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In yet another show of bilateral bonhomie between Moscow and New Delhi amid war in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Putin, who had visited India in December 2021 just a few weeks before he announced an offensive on Ukraine in February 2022, said that the relations between Russia and India are "consistently developing in all areas". "First of all, let me say that the relations between Russia and India are consistently developing in all areas. And the main guarantor for that is the policy led by Prime Minister Modi," Putin said during 'Russia Calling Investment Forum' in St. Petersburg. Russian President Vladimir Putin during plenary session of the 'Russia Calling!' | The Kremlin "I cannot imagine His Excellency Modi getting intimidated or being forced to take any steps or actions that would go against the national interests of India and the people of India," Putin said, in an indirect reference to India buying Russian oil despite war in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin praises India. Says, PM Modi despite pressure on him, took action which are in interest of India (buying Russian Oil). Vdo ctsy: Sputnik pic.twitter.com/C6cQ1Eh28Z — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 7, 2023 × "There is pressure against him. I am aware of that," Putin added. India-Russia ties amid war in Ukraine Russia's crude oil exports to India have gone above 60 million barrels per month as of August 2023, about 18 months into war in Ukraine. India accounts for nearly a quarter of Russia’s crude and refined oil exports. Also read | Russia's crude oil exports to India gave Moscow far more money than previously recognised The Russian custom records from December 2022 to the end of June 2023 put out average price of crude oil shipped to India at around $50 per barrel against the European Union's $60 per barrel price cap. New Delhi has staunchly defended its purchase of Russian oil when accused by the West of 'funding the war in Ukraine'. Also watch | Russia tops India's oil suppliers | World DNA × "Europe has managed to reduce its imports while doing it in a manner that is comfortable. If at a (per capita income) of €60,000, you are so caring about your population, I have a population of $2,000 per capita income. I also need energy, and I am not in a position to pay high prices for oil," India's foreign minister Dr S. Jaishankar had said in January 2023. Besides, the defence cooperation is an important pillar of the India-Russia strategic partnership. It is guided by the Agreement on the Programme for Military Technical Cooperation signed between the two countries. The Agreement for 2021-2031 was signed during the inaugural meeting of India-Russia 2+2 Dialogue which was held in Delhi on 6th December 2021.

Watch: Putin praises India, says PM Modi 'guarantor' of stronger Moscow-Delhi ties

<p>Garba, the traditional dance form of western India's Gujarat which is also the home state of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been declared as an Intangible Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, UNESCO said, "New inscription on the Intangible Heritage List: Garba of Gujarat, India. Congratulations!"</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted to the development and hailed Garba as "a celebration of life".</p>

<p>"Garba is a celebration of life, unity and our deep-rooted traditions. Its inscription on the Intangible Heritage List showcases to the world the beauty of Indian culture. This honour inspires us to preserve and promote our heritage for future generations. Congrats for this global acknowledgment," Modi wrote on X.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How India's Garba became world's intangible heritage?</strong></h2>

<p>The decision was reached at the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The meet is currently being held at the Cresta Mowana Resort in Kasane, Botswana.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As the auspicious Navratri dawns upon us, I am delighted to share a Garba penned by me during the past week. Let the festive rhythms embrace everyone!<br />
<br />
I thank <a href="https://twitter.com/meetbros?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MeetBros</a>, Divya Kumar for giving voice and music to this Garba.<a href="https://t.co/WqnlUFJTXm">https://t.co/WqnlUFJTXm</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1713405211027599851?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The ongoing session, initiated on December 4 and set to conclude on December 9, highlights diverse cultural practices worldwide. Garba, a ritualistic and devotional dance integral to the Hindu festival of Navaratri, secured its place on this list.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Garba?</strong></h2>

<p>During Garba performances, participants encircle a perforated earthenware pot illuminated with an oil lamp or an image of the Hindu goddess Amba.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Navratri greetings to everyone. The coming days are about devoting ourselves to the worship of Jagat Janani Maa.<br />
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May Navratri be the bringer of strength, good health and prosperity in everyone’s lives. <a href="https://t.co/f42HyGnUYM">pic.twitter.com/f42HyGnUYM</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1445925962734968835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The dance unfolds with clockwise movements, gradually intensifying to spirited whirling.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-whats-leading-to-heart-attack-deaths-during-navratri-at-garba-events-and-how-to-avoid-it-650600">Explained | What's leading to heart attack deaths during Navratri at garba events and how to avoid it?</a></strong></p>

<p>Practitioners, spanning dancers, musicians, social groups, craftspeople, and religious figures, constitute to the festive atmosphere in a designated <em>pandaal.</em></p>

<h2><strong>UNESCO's citation for Garba</strong></h2>

<p>According to the UNESCO's citation, Garba is not merely a dance but a cultural legacy which has continued through generations in both urban and rural settings. The transfer occurs through dedicated practice, live performances, imitation, and attentive observation.</p>

<p>Garba joins a distinguished roster of cultural elements from around the globe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other recent additions include the rickshaws and rickshaw painting in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Indonesia's Jamu wellness culture, and Thailand's Songkran festival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, various elements of heritage from India, such as the Nawrouz festival, Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja of Kolkata, Ramlila, and Vedic Chants, have also found a place on UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.</p>

<p>As of January 2022, a total of 14 Intangible Cultural Heritage elements are inscribed on UNESCO's list, a show of cultural diversity of our world.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Garba, the traditional dance form of western India's Gujarat which is also the home state of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been declared as an Intangible Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Garba, the traditional dance form of western India's Gujarat which is also the home state of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been declared as an Intangible Heritage by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, UNESCO said, "New inscription on the Intangible Heritage List: Garba of Gujarat, India. Congratulations!" Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted to the development and hailed Garba as "a celebration of life". "Garba is a celebration of life, unity and our deep-rooted traditions. Its inscription on the Intangible Heritage List showcases to the world the beauty of Indian culture. This honour inspires us to preserve and promote our heritage for future generations. Congrats for this global acknowledgment," Modi wrote on X. How India's Garba became world's intangible heritage? The decision was reached at the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The meet is currently being held at the Cresta Mowana Resort in Kasane, Botswana. As the auspicious Navratri dawns upon us, I am delighted to share a Garba penned by me during the past week. Let the festive rhythms embrace everyone! I thank @MeetBros, Divya Kumar for giving voice and music to this Garba.https://t.co/WqnlUFJTXm — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2023 × The ongoing session, initiated on December 4 and set to conclude on December 9, highlights diverse cultural practices worldwide. Garba, a ritualistic and devotional dance integral to the Hindu festival of Navaratri, secured its place on this list. What is Garba? During Garba performances, participants encircle a perforated earthenware pot illuminated with an oil lamp or an image of the Hindu goddess Amba. Navratri greetings to everyone. The coming days are about devoting ourselves to the worship of Jagat Janani Maa. May Navratri be the bringer of strength, good health and prosperity in everyone’s lives. pic.twitter.com/f42HyGnUYM — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 7, 2021 × The dance unfolds with clockwise movements, gradually intensifying to spirited whirling. Also read | Explained | What's leading to heart attack deaths during Navratri at garba events and how to avoid it? Practitioners, spanning dancers, musicians, social groups, craftspeople, and religious figures, constitute to the festive atmosphere in a designated pandaal. UNESCO's citation for Garba According to the UNESCO's citation, Garba is not merely a dance but a cultural legacy which has continued through generations in both urban and rural settings. The transfer occurs through dedicated practice, live performances, imitation, and attentive observation. Garba joins a distinguished roster of cultural elements from around the globe. Other recent additions include the rickshaws and rickshaw painting in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Indonesia's Jamu wellness culture, and Thailand's Songkran festival. Notably, various elements of heritage from India, such as the Nawrouz festival, Kumbh Mela, Durga Puja of Kolkata, Ramlila, and Vedic Chants, have also found a place on UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. As of January 2022, a total of 14 Intangible Cultural Heritage elements are inscribed on UNESCO's list, a show of cultural diversity of our world. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi hails Garba as 'celebration of life' after UNESCO's listing of dance form as 'Intangible Heritage'

<p>A day after securing a resounding win in three state elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at the opposition parties on Monday (Dec 5), the first day of the Winter Session of Lok Sabha, asking them to engage in meaningful discussion inside the parliament instead of venting their anger.</p>

<p>Briefing the reporters outside the parliament, Modi advised the opposition leaders to learn from their defeat and refrain from spreading negativity.</p>

<h2><strong>BJP's track record made anti-incumbency wave 'irrelevant'</strong></h2>

<p>"If I speak on the basis of the recent elections' results, this is a golden opportunity for our colleagues sitting in the Opposition. Instead of taking out your anger of defeat in this session, if you go ahead with positivity and learn from the defeat and leave behind the tendency of negativity of the last 9 years, the country will change their point of view for them," he said.</p>

<p>“I have been urging for your (Opposition) cooperation in the House. Today, I also speak politically - it is beneficial for you too if you give a message of positivity to the country. It is not right for democracy if your image becomes that of hatred and negativity. Opposition is equally important for democracy, it should be equally capable," he added.</p>

<p>He said that the Bhartiya Janata Party‘s (BJP) victory was possible because of its proven track record of good governance, which rendered the anti-incumbency wave “irrelevant”.</p>

<p>"When there is good governance, when there is devotion to public welfare, the word ‘anti-incumbency’ becomes irrelevant. You can call it ‘pro-incumbency’ or ‘good governance’ or ‘transparency’ or ‘concrete plans for public welfare’ - but this has been the experience. After such an excellent public mandate, we are meeting at this new temple of Parliament.”</p>

<h2><strong>Issues to be discussed on first day </strong></h2>

<p>The first day of the session would most likely cause a ruckus as the report of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee recommending Mahua Moitra's expulsion from the Lower House over a "cash-for-query" complaint has been listed for discussion in the House.</p>

<p>Moitra has been accused of receiving cash and expensive gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani for asking questions on his behalf in the parliament.</p>

<p>During this session, the government is expected to clear the bill reforming the Indian criminal laws.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-amit-shah-react-as-bjp-secures-power-in-key-states-ahead-of-2024-elections-665806">Jaishankar, Amit Shah react as BJP secures power in key states ahead of 2024 elections</a></p>

<p>Three laws, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya, have been tabled to replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act respectively.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-bjp-roars-in-mp-scindia-fires-back-at-priyanka-gandhi-over-height-remark-665698">As BJP wins in MP, Scindia hits back at Priyanka Gandhi over her 'height' barb at him</a></p>

<p>The Opposition is expected to unite and attack the government over these Bills. West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee has already written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging him to build consensus on the new criminal-penal laws among stakeholders, rather than rushing them.</p>


A day after securing a resounding win in three state elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at the opposition parties on Monday (Dec 5), the first day of the Winter Session of Lok Sabha, asking them to engage in meaningful discussion inside the parliament instead of venting their anger.

A day after securing a resounding win in three state elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at the opposition parties on Monday (Dec 5), the first day of the Winter Session of Lok Sabha, asking them to engage in meaningful discussion inside the parliament instead of venting their anger. Briefing the reporters outside the parliament, Modi advised the opposition leaders to learn from their defeat and refrain from spreading negativity. BJP's track record made anti-incumbency wave 'irrelevant' "If I speak on the basis of the recent elections' results, this is a golden opportunity for our colleagues sitting in the Opposition. Instead of taking out your anger of defeat in this session, if you go ahead with positivity and learn from the defeat and leave behind the tendency of negativity of the last 9 years, the country will change their point of view for them," he said. “I have been urging for your (Opposition) cooperation in the House. Today, I also speak politically - it is beneficial for you too if you give a message of positivity to the country. It is not right for democracy if your image becomes that of hatred and negativity. Opposition is equally important for democracy, it should be equally capable," he added. He said that the Bhartiya Janata Party‘s (BJP) victory was possible because of its proven track record of good governance, which rendered the anti-incumbency wave “irrelevant”. "When there is good governance, when there is devotion to public welfare, the word ‘anti-incumbency’ becomes irrelevant. You can call it ‘pro-incumbency’ or ‘good governance’ or ‘transparency’ or ‘concrete plans for public welfare’ - but this has been the experience. After such an excellent public mandate, we are meeting at this new temple of Parliament.” Issues to be discussed on first day The first day of the session would most likely cause a ruckus as the report of the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee recommending Mahua Moitra's expulsion from the Lower House over a "cash-for-query" complaint has been listed for discussion in the House. Moitra has been accused of receiving cash and expensive gifts from businessman Darshan Hiranandani for asking questions on his behalf in the parliament. During this session, the government is expected to clear the bill reforming the Indian criminal laws. Also read | Jaishankar, Amit Shah react as BJP secures power in key states ahead of 2024 elections Three laws, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya, have been tabled to replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act respectively. Also read | As BJP wins in MP, Scindia hits back at Priyanka Gandhi over her 'height' barb at him The Opposition is expected to unite and attack the government over these Bills. West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee has already written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging him to build consensus on the new criminal-penal laws among stakeholders, rather than rushing them.

India: Buoyed by assembly poll wins, PM Modi asks oppn not to vent ire on 1st day of parliament winter session

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party won three key states in western and central India ahead of next year's general elections. The BJP, on December 3, unseated the principal opposition party Congress in two states, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, in another sign of the expanding political dominance of the BJP under Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress party was able to win the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-election-results-2023-brs-concedes-defeat-extends-congratulations-to-congress-665743">southern state of Telangana</a>, which had its only third assembly election since its formation in June 2014 after its division from Andhra Pradesh state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In India, the state elections do not decide the formation of government at the Centre in New Delhi's corridors of power. They partly decide the composition of the upper house of parliament or the Rajya Sabha (where members are elected by the members of state assemblies), and whose tenure almost never coincides with the tenure of Lok Sabha, the upper house of parliament directly elected by people during General Elections every five years.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-hails-four-state-election-results-as-victory-of-politics-of-development-665751">Hat-trick in state elections is guarantee of hat-trick in 2024, says Indian PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>The Congress party conceded defeat while hailing its grace-saving win in Telangana.</p>

<p>Here's how the elections looked like in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana, according to the Election Commission of India.<img alt="Courtesy: Election Commission of India" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bda8e0e7-2498-45e5-b061-588898e5e06a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-12-04T023837.200.png" /></p>

<p><em>Courtesy: Election Commission of India</em></p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, where the BJP won,&nbsp;together constitute 65 of 543 seats in Lok Sabha or Lower House of the Indian Parliament directly elected by the people every five years. The BJP currently holds 63 of these 65 seats, and for the Indian National Congress — the principal opposition party run by India's fourth-generation Nehru-Gandhi family — this loss is morale-shattering.</p>

<p>"We bow to the Janata Janardan," Indian PM&nbsp;Modi, wrote on X (formerly Twitter), expressing reverence for the electorate's mandate in these states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Suggesting that the win in three states is a sign of BJP securing a third straight term in New Delhi, Modi, while delivering a speech at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi,&nbsp;said: "Some people are even saying that today's hattrick has guaranteed the hattrick in 2024."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Assembly elections results: Backward castes, women swing the results towards BJP</strong></p>

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<p>In total, elections were held in five states&nbsp;— Rajasthan in western India, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in central India, Telangana in southern India and Mizoram state in the northeast&nbsp;—&nbsp;in November to choose lawmakers for their local legislatures.</p>

<p>The Election Commission of India released the results for four states on Sunday (Dec 3), while counting in Mizoram will be done on Monday (Dec 4).</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party won three key states in western and central India ahead of next year's general elections. The BJP, on December 3, unseated the principal opposition party Congress in two states, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, in another sign of the expanding political dominance of the BJP under Modi.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party won three key states in western and central India ahead of next year's general elections. The BJP, on December 3, unseated the principal opposition party Congress in two states, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, in another sign of the expanding political dominance of the BJP under Modi. The Congress party was able to win the southern state of Telangana, which had its only third assembly election since its formation in June 2014 after its division from Andhra Pradesh state. In India, the state elections do not decide the formation of government at the Centre in New Delhi's corridors of power. They partly decide the composition of the upper house of parliament or the Rajya Sabha (where members are elected by the members of state assemblies), and whose tenure almost never coincides with the tenure of Lok Sabha, the upper house of parliament directly elected by people during General Elections every five years. Also read | Hat-trick in state elections is guarantee of hat-trick in 2024, says Indian PM Modi The Congress party conceded defeat while hailing its grace-saving win in Telangana. Here's how the elections looked like in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Telangana, according to the Election Commission of India. Courtesy: Election Commission of India What does it mean? Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, where the BJP won, together constitute 65 of 543 seats in Lok Sabha or Lower House of the Indian Parliament directly elected by the people every five years. The BJP currently holds 63 of these 65 seats, and for the Indian National Congress — the principal opposition party run by India's fourth-generation Nehru-Gandhi family — this loss is morale-shattering. "We bow to the Janata Janardan," Indian PM Modi, wrote on X (formerly Twitter), expressing reverence for the electorate's mandate in these states. Suggesting that the win in three states is a sign of BJP securing a third straight term in New Delhi, Modi, while delivering a speech at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, said: "Some people are even saying that today's hattrick has guaranteed the hattrick in 2024." Also watch | Assembly elections results: Backward castes, women swing the results towards BJP × In total, elections were held in five states — Rajasthan in western India, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in central India, Telangana in southern India and Mizoram state in the northeast — in November to choose lawmakers for their local legislatures. The Election Commission of India released the results for four states on Sunday (Dec 3), while counting in Mizoram will be done on Monday (Dec 4).

India state election results: PM Modi's BJP scores a sweeping 3/4 in crucial test before 2024 final

<p>Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana election results 2023: The verdict is out. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to form governments in three Hindi-speaking states in western and central India just few months before he will seek a third consecutive term with General Elections in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BJP has taken decisive leads in western Indian state of Rajasthan, and central Indian states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. All of these states together constitute 65 of 543 seats in Lok Sabha or Lower House of the Indian Parliament. The BJP currently holds 63 of these 65 seats, and for the Indian National Congress — the principal opposition party run by India's fourth-generation Nehru-Gandhi family — this loss is morale shattering.<br />
<br />
"We bow to the Janata Janardan," PM Modi, wrote on X (formerly Twitter), expressing reverence for the electorate's mandate in these states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Suggesting that the win in three states is a sign of BJP securing a third straight term in New Delhi, Modi said: "Some people are even saying that today's hattrick has guaranteed the hattrick in 2024."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Assembly elections results | PM Modi: 'Today's win is historic and unprecedented'</strong></p>

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<p>"The results in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan indicate that the people of India are firmly with politics of good governance and development, which the Bharatiya Janata Party stands for," Modi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thank the people of these states for their unwavering support and assure them that we will keep working tirelessly for their well-being," wrote the Prime Minister on X (formerly Twitter), who led the election campaign for the BJP, and was the primary face against whom the opposition contested.</p>

<p>"A special thanks to the hardworking Party Karyakartas. Each of them is exemplary! They have worked tirelessly and highlighted our development agenda among the people," Modi added.</p>

<p>Speaking from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Modi said: "Today, the resolution of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-sufficient India)&nbsp;has won, the idea of preference for the deprived has won, the idea of the development of states for the development of the country has won."</p>

<h2><strong>Congress party's Rahul Gandhi concedes defeat</strong></h2>

<p>Rahul Gandhi, the face of India's principal opposition party Congress, conceded defeat in three of the four states. The fourth-generation dynast of India's Nehru-Gandhi family, however, thanked the electorate for electing Congress to power in the southern Telangana state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We humbly accept the mandate of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan - the battle of ideology will continue. I am very thankful to the people of Telangana - we will definitely fulfill the promise of making Prajalu Telangana. Heartfelt thanks to all the workers for their hard work and support," Rahul Gandhi wrote on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In total, elections were held in five states&nbsp;— Rajasthan in western India, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in central India, Telangana in southern India and Mizoram state in northeast&nbsp;—&nbsp;in November to choose lawmakers for their local legislatures. The Election Commission of India released the results for four states on Sunday (Dec 3), while counting in Mizoram will be done on Monday (Dec 4).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana election results 2023: The verdict is out. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to form governments in three Hindi-speaking states in western and central India just few months before he will seek a third consecutive term with General Elections in 2024.

Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana election results 2023: The verdict is out. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to form governments in three Hindi-speaking states in western and central India just few months before he will seek a third consecutive term with General Elections in 2024. The BJP has taken decisive leads in western Indian state of Rajasthan, and central Indian states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. All of these states together constitute 65 of 543 seats in Lok Sabha or Lower House of the Indian Parliament. The BJP currently holds 63 of these 65 seats, and for the Indian National Congress — the principal opposition party run by India's fourth-generation Nehru-Gandhi family — this loss is morale shattering. "We bow to the Janata Janardan," PM Modi, wrote on X (formerly Twitter), expressing reverence for the electorate's mandate in these states. Suggesting that the win in three states is a sign of BJP securing a third straight term in New Delhi, Modi said: "Some people are even saying that today's hattrick has guaranteed the hattrick in 2024." Also watch | Assembly elections results | PM Modi: 'Today's win is historic and unprecedented' × "The results in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan indicate that the people of India are firmly with politics of good governance and development, which the Bharatiya Janata Party stands for," Modi added. "I thank the people of these states for their unwavering support and assure them that we will keep working tirelessly for their well-being," wrote the Prime Minister on X (formerly Twitter), who led the election campaign for the BJP, and was the primary face against whom the opposition contested. "A special thanks to the hardworking Party Karyakartas. Each of them is exemplary! They have worked tirelessly and highlighted our development agenda among the people," Modi added. Speaking from the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Modi said: "Today, the resolution of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-sufficient India) has won, the idea of preference for the deprived has won, the idea of the development of states for the development of the country has won." Congress party's Rahul Gandhi concedes defeat Rahul Gandhi, the face of India's principal opposition party Congress, conceded defeat in three of the four states. The fourth-generation dynast of India's Nehru-Gandhi family, however, thanked the electorate for electing Congress to power in the southern Telangana state. "We humbly accept the mandate of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan - the battle of ideology will continue. I am very thankful to the people of Telangana - we will definitely fulfill the promise of making Prajalu Telangana. Heartfelt thanks to all the workers for their hard work and support," Rahul Gandhi wrote on X. In total, elections were held in five states — Rajasthan in western India, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in central India, Telangana in southern India and Mizoram state in northeast — in November to choose lawmakers for their local legislatures. The Election Commission of India released the results for four states on Sunday (Dec 3), while counting in Mizoram will be done on Monday (Dec 4). (With inputs from agencies)

Hat-trick in state elections is guarantee of hat-trick in 2024, says Indian PM Modi

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday (Nov 3) and took stock of the preparations done by the state government to handle Cyclone Michaung and assured him of all help from the central government, said officials.<br />
<br />
The top officials were also directed by PM Modi to ensure that all possible help is provided to the state government.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cyclone-brewing-in-bay-of-bengal-could-bring-very-heavy-rainfall-in-chennai-664343">India: Cyclone brewing in Bay of Bengal could bring very heavy rainfall in Chennai</a></p>

<p>On Sunday, a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal slowly intensified into a cyclonic storm named 'Michaung', which is expected to hit the south coast of Andhra Pradesh between Nellore and Machilipatnam in the forenoon on December 5 with an expected maximum sustained wind speed of 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph, said the IMD, in its bulletin.</p>

<h2><strong>IMD issues cyclone alert</strong></h2>

<p>A cyclone alert was issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for Andhra Pradesh and adjoining coasts of North Tamil Nadu for the next 12 hours. In its press release, the IMD said that the deep depression will intensify into a cyclonic storm in the next 12 hours over the southwest Bay of Bengal.<br />
<br />
"Yesterday's Deep Depression over Southwest Bay of Bengal moved northwestwards with a speed of 10 kmph during past 6 hours and lay centred at 2330 hours of December 2, 2023, over the same region," stated the release.<br />
<br />
"It is likely to move northwestwards and intensify into a Cyclonic Storm over Southwest Bay of Bengal during next 12 hours and reach west-central Bay Of Bengal off south Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by December 4 forenoon," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian PM Narendra Modi's selfie with Meloni breaks internet</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-narendra-modis-selfie-with-meloni-breaks-internet-665389/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>As per the release, the cyclonic storm at a maximum sustained speed of 80-90 kmph to 100 kmph will cross the coast of south Andhra Pradesh on December 5.<br />
<br />
"Thereafter, it would move nearly northwards almost parallel and close to the south Andhra Pradesh coast and cross the South Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Machilipatnam during the forenoon of 5th December as a Cyclonic Storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph," the release said.<br />
<br />
After the cyclone warning was issued by the IMD, local cautionary Signal Number III was hoisted in Chennai, Cuddalore and Ennore ports so as to alert people.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday (Nov 3) and took stock of the preparations done by the state government to handle Cyclone Michaung and assured him of all help from the central government, said officials.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Sunday (Nov 3) and took stock of the preparations done by the state government to handle Cyclone Michaung and assured him of all help from the central government, said officials. The top officials were also directed by PM Modi to ensure that all possible help is provided to the state government. Also read: India: Cyclone brewing in Bay of Bengal could bring very heavy rainfall in Chennai On Sunday, a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal slowly intensified into a cyclonic storm named 'Michaung', which is expected to hit the south coast of Andhra Pradesh between Nellore and Machilipatnam in the forenoon on December 5 with an expected maximum sustained wind speed of 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph, said the IMD, in its bulletin. IMD issues cyclone alert A cyclone alert was issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for Andhra Pradesh and adjoining coasts of North Tamil Nadu for the next 12 hours. In its press release, the IMD said that the deep depression will intensify into a cyclonic storm in the next 12 hours over the southwest Bay of Bengal. "Yesterday's Deep Depression over Southwest Bay of Bengal moved northwestwards with a speed of 10 kmph during past 6 hours and lay centred at 2330 hours of December 2, 2023, over the same region," stated the release. "It is likely to move northwestwards and intensify into a Cyclonic Storm over Southwest Bay of Bengal during next 12 hours and reach west-central Bay Of Bengal off south Andhra Pradesh and adjoining north Tamil Nadu coasts by December 4 forenoon," it said. Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi's selfie with Meloni breaks internet As per the release, the cyclonic storm at a maximum sustained speed of 80-90 kmph to 100 kmph will cross the coast of south Andhra Pradesh on December 5. "Thereafter, it would move nearly northwards almost parallel and close to the south Andhra Pradesh coast and cross the South Andhra Pradesh coast between Nellore and Machilipatnam during the forenoon of 5th December as a Cyclonic Storm with a maximum sustained wind speed of 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph," the release said. After the cyclone warning was issued by the IMD, local cautionary Signal Number III was hoisted in Chennai, Cuddalore and Ennore ports so as to alert people. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Michaung: PM Modi speaks to Andhra CM, takes stock of preparations

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to the viral 'Melodi' selfie posted by Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Dec 1) from the sidelines of COP28 summit in Dubai. The selfie, posted by Meloni on Instagram as well as X (formerly Twitter) became the most-talked about trend on internet in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meloni captioned the selfie with hashtag 'Melodi' while describing herself and Modi as 'good friends at COP28'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good friends at COP28.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melodi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/g0W6R0RJJo">pic.twitter.com/g0W6R0RJJo</a></p>
— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/1730644622198657314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The 46-year-old Italian leader&nbsp;captured the attention of netizens with the hashtag 'Melodi', a popular play on the surname of the two leaders created from sarcastic alleys of social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi replied on Dec 2: "Meeting friends is always a delight."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Meeting friends is always a delight. <a href="https://t.co/4PWqZZaDKC">https://t.co/4PWqZZaDKC</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1730886406677881184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(More information will be added soon.)</em></p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to the viral 'Melodi' selfie posted by Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Dec 1) from the sidelines of COP28 summit in Dubai.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted to the viral 'Melodi' selfie posted by Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Dec 1) from the sidelines of COP28 summit in Dubai. The selfie, posted by Meloni on Instagram as well as X (formerly Twitter) became the most-talked about trend on internet in India. Meloni captioned the selfie with hashtag 'Melodi' while describing herself and Modi as 'good friends at COP28'. Good friends at COP28.#Melodi pic.twitter.com/g0W6R0RJJo — Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) December 1, 2023 × The 46-year-old Italian leader captured the attention of netizens with the hashtag 'Melodi', a popular play on the surname of the two leaders created from sarcastic alleys of social media. Modi replied on Dec 2: "Meeting friends is always a delight." Meeting friends is always a delight. https://t.co/4PWqZZaDKC — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 2, 2023 × (More information will be added soon.)

'Always a delight': India's PM Modi reacts to viral 'Melodi' selfie

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