<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sept 7) declared that the 21st century belongs to Asia and stressed that the ASEAN bloc is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy, and plays a key role in India's&nbsp;Indo-Pacific initiative.</p>

<p>Speaking at the 20th&nbsp;Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India summit in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta, Modi spoke of this year’s theme ‘ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth’, and emphasised&nbsp;that the region plays an important role in global growth.</p>

<p>“This year's theme is ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth. ASEAN matters because here everyone's voice is heard and ASEAN is the epicentre of growth because ASEAN plays an important role in global growth..."</p>

<p>He also highlighted that building a “rule-based world order” after the pandemic was essential going forward.</p>

<h2>'A matter of pride'</h2>

<p>The Indian prime minister said that it was a matter of pride for him to co-chair the ASEAN-India Summit while highlighting India-Indonesia partnership is entering its fourth decade.</p>

<p>“Our history and geography unite India and ASEAN. Along with it, our shared values, regional integration, and our shared belief in peace, prosperity and a multipolar world also unite us. ASEAN is the central pillar of India's Act East Policy. India supports ASEAN's outlook on ASEAN-India centrality and Indo-Pacific,” said the prime minister.</p>

<p>“Even in an environment of global uncertainties, our mutual cooperation is making steady progress. This is a testimony to the strength and resilience of our ties. 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' — One Earth, One Family, One Future — is the theme of India's G20 presidency," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-than-400000-indians-waiting-for-green-card-wont-get-it-before-death-study-633040">More than 400,000 Indians waiting for Green Card won't get it before death: Study</a></p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Jakarta earlier in the day to attend the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits.&nbsp;After the ASEAN summit, Modi will attend the East Asia Summit.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-reacts-to-controversial-sanatana-dharma-remark-by-udhayanidhi-stalin-says-needs-proper-response-632932">PM Modi reacts to controversial 'Sanatana Dharma' remark by Udhayanidhi Stalin, says it needs proper response</a></p>

<p>“After that, I will be attending the 18th East Asia Summit. This forum provides a useful opportunity to deliberate on issues of importance to the region including food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. I look forward to exchanging views with other EAS Leaders on practical cooperation measures to collectively address these global challenges,"&nbsp;Modi posted on social media platform X before leaving for Jakarta.</p>

<p>The Indian leader will&nbsp;return to the Indian capital Delhi tonight ahead of the G20 Summit which is being hosted in the national capital on September 9 and 10.</p>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sept 7) declared that the 21st century belongs to Asia and stressed that the ASEAN bloc is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy, and plays a key role in India's Indo-Pacific initiative.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sept 7) declared that the 21st century belongs to Asia and stressed that the ASEAN bloc is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy, and plays a key role in India's Indo-Pacific initiative. Speaking at the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India summit in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta, Modi spoke of this year’s theme ‘ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth’, and emphasised that the region plays an important role in global growth. “This year's theme is ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth. ASEAN matters because here everyone's voice is heard and ASEAN is the epicentre of growth because ASEAN plays an important role in global growth..." He also highlighted that building a “rule-based world order” after the pandemic was essential going forward. 'A matter of pride' The Indian prime minister said that it was a matter of pride for him to co-chair the ASEAN-India Summit while highlighting India-Indonesia partnership is entering its fourth decade. “Our history and geography unite India and ASEAN. Along with it, our shared values, regional integration, and our shared belief in peace, prosperity and a multipolar world also unite us. ASEAN is the central pillar of India's Act East Policy. India supports ASEAN's outlook on ASEAN-India centrality and Indo-Pacific,” said the prime minister. “Even in an environment of global uncertainties, our mutual cooperation is making steady progress. This is a testimony to the strength and resilience of our ties. 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' — One Earth, One Family, One Future — is the theme of India's G20 presidency," PM Modi said. Also read | More than 400,000 Indians waiting for Green Card won't get it before death: Study Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Jakarta earlier in the day to attend the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits. After the ASEAN summit, Modi will attend the East Asia Summit. Also read | PM Modi reacts to controversial 'Sanatana Dharma' remark by Udhayanidhi Stalin, says it needs proper response “After that, I will be attending the 18th East Asia Summit. This forum provides a useful opportunity to deliberate on issues of importance to the region including food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. I look forward to exchanging views with other EAS Leaders on practical cooperation measures to collectively address these global challenges," Modi posted on social media platform X before leaving for Jakarta. The Indian leader will return to the Indian capital Delhi tonight ahead of the G20 Summit which is being hosted in the national capital on September 9 and 10. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'21st century belongs to Asia', declares PM Modi at ASEAN Summit

<p>India’s G20 presidency strives to bridge divides, dismantle barriers, and sow seeds of collaboration that nourish a world where unity prevails over discord, and where shared destiny eclipses isolation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.</p>

<p>Talking about the upcoming marquee event that is scheduled to begin on Sept 9 in the capital New Delhi, Modi in his opinion piece published in several media outlets wrote that India’s mantra of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (One World, One Family’) will translate into a call for human-centric progress in this year’s summit.</p>

<p>“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — these two words capture a deep philosophy. It means the world is one family. This is an all-embracing outlook that encourages us to progress as one universal family, transcending borders, languages, and ideologies.”</p>

<p>“During India’s G20 presidency, this translated into a call for human-centric progress. As One Earth, we came together to nurture our planet. As One Family, we support each other in the pursuit of growth. And we move together towards a shared future — One Future — which is an undeniable truth in these interconnected times,” he said.</p>

<p>He particularly highlighted that the “Voice of Global South Summit” has found new currency in this year’s G20, and how under India’s presidency the summit will see the largest-ever participation from African countries as India pushed for the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20.</p>

<p>“In December 2022, when we took over the presidency from Indonesia, I wrote that a mindset shift must be catalysed by the G20. This was especially needed in the context of mainstreaming the marginalised aspirations of developing countries, the Global South and Africa.”</p>

<p>“The Voice of Global South Summit, which witnessed participation from 125 countries, was one of the foremost initiatives under our presidency. It was an important exercise to gather inputs and ideas from the Global South.”</p>

<p>“Further, our presidency has not only seen the largest ever participation from African countries but also pushed for the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20.”</p>

<p>Calling on the attention of stakeholders towards climate action, Modi said that ambitions for climate action must be matched with actions on climate finance and the transfer of technology.</p>

<p>“We believe there is a need to move away from a purely restrictive attitude of what should not be done to a more constructive attitude focusing on what can be done to fight climate change.”</p>

<p>“The Chennai HLPs for a Sustainable and Resilient Blue Economy focus on keeping our oceans healthy. A global ecosystem for clean and green hydrogen will emerge from our presidency, along with a Green Hydrogen Innovation Centre. In 2015, we launched the International Solar Alliance. Now, through the Global Biofuels Alliance, we will support the world to enable energy transitions in tune with the benefits of a circular economy.”</p>

<h2><strong>G20 Summit 2023: All eyes on India as New Delhi gears up to welcome world leaders</strong></h2>

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<p>He said that democratising climate action is the best way to impart momentum to the movement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/asean-central-pillar-in-indias-act-east-policy-pm-modi-in-jakarta-633131">ASEAN central pillar of India’s Act East Policy: PM Modi in Jakarta</a></p>

<p>“Just as individuals make daily decisions based on their long-term health, they can make lifestyle decisions based on the impact on the planet’s long-term health. Just like yoga became a global mass movement for wellness, we have also nudged the world with Lifestyles for Sustainable Environment (LiFE).”</p>

<p>He pointed out various initiatives taken by India that can be replicated across the world to safeguard against the vagaries of climate change.</p>

<p>“Due to the impact of climate change, ensuring food and nutritional security will be crucial. Millets, or Shree Anna, can help with this while also boosting climate-smart agriculture. In the International Year of Millets, we have taken millets to global palates. The Deccan High Level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition are also helpful in this direction.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-reacts-to-india-bharat-row-asks-council-of-ministers-to-refrain-from-the-debate-633146">PM Modi reacts to India-Bharat row; asks Council of Ministers to refrain from the debate</a></p>

<p>Underscoring why India attaches the highest of importance to the G20 Summit, Modi said, “For India, the G20 presidency is not merely a high-level diplomatic endeavour. As the mother of democracy and a model of diversity, we opened the doors of this experience to the world.”</p>

<p>He also said that G20 countries can help developing nations adapt and unlock the power of inclusive growth.</p>

<p>“For instance, the billions across the world that remain unbanked, or lack digital identities, can be financially included through digital public infrastructure (DPI). The solutions we have built using our DPI have now been recognised globally. Now, through the G20, we will help developing countries adapt, build, and scale DPI to unlock the power of inclusive growth.”</p>

<p>He said that India under its G20 presidency is working on bridging the gender digital divide, reducing labour force participation gaps and enabling a larger role for women in leadership and decision-making.</p>

<p>“That India is the fastest growing large economy is no accident. Our simple, scalable and sustainable solutions have empowered the vulnerable and the marginalised to lead our development story. From space to sports, economy to entrepreneurship, Indian women have taken the lead in various sectors. They have shifted the narrative from the development of women to women-led development.”</p>

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India’s G20 presidency strives to bridge divides, dismantle barriers, and sow seeds of collaboration that nourish a world where unity prevails over discord, and where shared destiny eclipses isolation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.

India’s G20 presidency strives to bridge divides, dismantle barriers, and sow seeds of collaboration that nourish a world where unity prevails over discord, and where shared destiny eclipses isolation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. Talking about the upcoming marquee event that is scheduled to begin on Sept 9 in the capital New Delhi, Modi in his opinion piece published in several media outlets wrote that India’s mantra of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (One World, One Family’) will translate into a call for human-centric progress in this year’s summit. “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — these two words capture a deep philosophy. It means the world is one family. This is an all-embracing outlook that encourages us to progress as one universal family, transcending borders, languages, and ideologies.” “During India’s G20 presidency, this translated into a call for human-centric progress. As One Earth, we came together to nurture our planet. As One Family, we support each other in the pursuit of growth. And we move together towards a shared future — One Future — which is an undeniable truth in these interconnected times,” he said. He particularly highlighted that the “Voice of Global South Summit” has found new currency in this year’s G20, and how under India’s presidency the summit will see the largest-ever participation from African countries as India pushed for the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20. “In December 2022, when we took over the presidency from Indonesia, I wrote that a mindset shift must be catalysed by the G20. This was especially needed in the context of mainstreaming the marginalised aspirations of developing countries, the Global South and Africa.” “The Voice of Global South Summit, which witnessed participation from 125 countries, was one of the foremost initiatives under our presidency. It was an important exercise to gather inputs and ideas from the Global South.” “Further, our presidency has not only seen the largest ever participation from African countries but also pushed for the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20.” Calling on the attention of stakeholders towards climate action, Modi said that ambitions for climate action must be matched with actions on climate finance and the transfer of technology. “We believe there is a need to move away from a purely restrictive attitude of what should not be done to a more constructive attitude focusing on what can be done to fight climate change.” “The Chennai HLPs for a Sustainable and Resilient Blue Economy focus on keeping our oceans healthy. A global ecosystem for clean and green hydrogen will emerge from our presidency, along with a Green Hydrogen Innovation Centre. In 2015, we launched the International Solar Alliance. Now, through the Global Biofuels Alliance, we will support the world to enable energy transitions in tune with the benefits of a circular economy.” G20 Summit 2023: All eyes on India as New Delhi gears up to welcome world leaders He said that democratising climate action is the best way to impart momentum to the movement. Also read | ASEAN central pillar of India’s Act East Policy: PM Modi in Jakarta “Just as individuals make daily decisions based on their long-term health, they can make lifestyle decisions based on the impact on the planet’s long-term health. Just like yoga became a global mass movement for wellness, we have also nudged the world with Lifestyles for Sustainable Environment (LiFE).” He pointed out various initiatives taken by India that can be replicated across the world to safeguard against the vagaries of climate change. “Due to the impact of climate change, ensuring food and nutritional security will be crucial. Millets, or Shree Anna, can help with this while also boosting climate-smart agriculture. In the International Year of Millets, we have taken millets to global palates. The Deccan High Level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition are also helpful in this direction.” Also read | PM Modi reacts to India-Bharat row; asks Council of Ministers to refrain from the debate Underscoring why India attaches the highest of importance to the G20 Summit, Modi said, “For India, the G20 presidency is not merely a high-level diplomatic endeavour. As the mother of democracy and a model of diversity, we opened the doors of this experience to the world.” He also said that G20 countries can help developing nations adapt and unlock the power of inclusive growth. “For instance, the billions across the world that remain unbanked, or lack digital identities, can be financially included through digital public infrastructure (DPI). The solutions we have built using our DPI have now been recognised globally. Now, through the G20, we will help developing countries adapt, build, and scale DPI to unlock the power of inclusive growth.” He said that India under its G20 presidency is working on bridging the gender digital divide, reducing labour force participation gaps and enabling a larger role for women in leadership and decision-making. “That India is the fastest growing large economy is no accident. Our simple, scalable and sustainable solutions have empowered the vulnerable and the marginalised to lead our development story. From space to sports, economy to entrepreneurship, Indian women have taken the lead in various sectors. They have shifted the narrative from the development of women to women-led development.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India's G20 presidency strives to bridge divides and sow seeds of collaboration: PM Modi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a strong pitch for altering the approach on climate talks, from restrictive to constructive, and urged nations not to focus on “don't do this or that”.</p>

<p>In an interview to PTI ahead of the G20 Leaders' Summit this weekend, the prime minister said there was no “one-size-fits-all” solution to fight climate change. The prime minister said India has left no stone unturned in meeting its climate goals despite accounting for less than five per cent of the cumulative emissions.</p>

<p>“So, we are certainly on track while also tailoring in various factors needed to ensure growth,” he said.</p>

<p>“We are perhaps the first among the G20 countries to have achieved our climate targets nine years ahead of the scheduled date,” the prime minister said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-sets-the-tone-for-un-security-council-reforms-before-hosting-g20-leaders-631947">Modi sets the tone for UN Security Council reforms before hosting G20 leaders</a></strong></p>

<p>He said India's action against single-use plastic has been recognised across the world and has also made great strides in safe sanitation and cleanliness.</p>

<p>The prime minister said India has moved from being just a member of global efforts to playing a leading role in many initiatives.</p>

<p>“Our principle is simple – diversity is our best bet, whether in society or in terms of our energy mix. There are no one-size-fits-all solutions.</p>

<p>"Given the different pathways countries are on, our pathways for energy transition will be different,” he said to a question on progress on climate action targets in the post-Ukraine war era.</p>

<p>The prime minister said he was “extremely positive” about the future of the fight against climate change.</p>

<p>“We are working with other nations to alter the approach from a restrictive to a constructive approach. Rather than focusing purely on the approach of don't do this or that, we want to bring in an attitude that makes people and nations aware of what they can do and help them with that, in terms of finance, technology and other resources,” Modi said.</p>

<p>In response to a separate question, the prime minister said there have been many climate meetings over the decades, but despite the best intentions the discussions would end up revolving around who is to blame.</p>

<p>“But we took a positive and affirmative approach with a ‘can do' spirit. We set up the International Solar Alliance and took the initiative to bring countries together under the vision of ‘One World One Sun One Grid',” he said.</p>

<p>The prime minister said India also started the Coalition for Disaster Resilience so that countries across the world, especially developing countries, learn from each other and build infrastructure that is resilient even during disasters.</p>

<p>“We have also worked with small island nations of the world to further their interests, including under the Forum of India and Pacific Island Countries,” he said.</p>

<p>The prime minister said India has been making great progress in climate-centric initiatives as it had ramped up solar energy capacity 20-fold in just a few years.</p>

<p>“India is among the top four nations in the world in terms of wind energy. In the electric vehicle revolution, India is playing an important role in both innovation and adoption,” he said.</p>

<p>The prime minister said initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure are bringing countries together for the planet.</p>

<p>He said the ISA has got a great response with over 100 countries joining it.</p>

<p>“Our Mission LiFE initiative focuses on Lifestyle for Environment. Today, in each society we have people who are health conscious. What they buy, what they eat, what they do – each decision is based on how it serves their health,” the prime minister said.</p>

<p>Modi said their choices are not only guided by how it will affect them today but also by the long-term impact.</p>

<p>“Similarly, people across the world can come together to become planet-conscious. Each lifestyle decision can be made based on what impact it will have on the planet in the long term,” the prime minister said.</p>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a strong pitch for altering the approach on climate talks, from restrictive to constructive, and urged nations not to focus on “don't do this or that”.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a strong pitch for altering the approach on climate talks, from restrictive to constructive, and urged nations not to focus on “don't do this or that”. In an interview to PTI ahead of the G20 Leaders' Summit this weekend, the prime minister said there was no “one-size-fits-all” solution to fight climate change. The prime minister said India has left no stone unturned in meeting its climate goals despite accounting for less than five per cent of the cumulative emissions. “So, we are certainly on track while also tailoring in various factors needed to ensure growth,” he said. “We are perhaps the first among the G20 countries to have achieved our climate targets nine years ahead of the scheduled date,” the prime minister said. Also read | Modi sets the tone for UN Security Council reforms before hosting G20 leaders He said India's action against single-use plastic has been recognised across the world and has also made great strides in safe sanitation and cleanliness. The prime minister said India has moved from being just a member of global efforts to playing a leading role in many initiatives. “Our principle is simple – diversity is our best bet, whether in society or in terms of our energy mix. There are no one-size-fits-all solutions. "Given the different pathways countries are on, our pathways for energy transition will be different,” he said to a question on progress on climate action targets in the post-Ukraine war era. The prime minister said he was “extremely positive” about the future of the fight against climate change. “We are working with other nations to alter the approach from a restrictive to a constructive approach. Rather than focusing purely on the approach of don't do this or that, we want to bring in an attitude that makes people and nations aware of what they can do and help them with that, in terms of finance, technology and other resources,” Modi said. In response to a separate question, the prime minister said there have been many climate meetings over the decades, but despite the best intentions the discussions would end up revolving around who is to blame. “But we took a positive and affirmative approach with a ‘can do' spirit. We set up the International Solar Alliance and took the initiative to bring countries together under the vision of ‘One World One Sun One Grid',” he said. The prime minister said India also started the Coalition for Disaster Resilience so that countries across the world, especially developing countries, learn from each other and build infrastructure that is resilient even during disasters. “We have also worked with small island nations of the world to further their interests, including under the Forum of India and Pacific Island Countries,” he said. The prime minister said India has been making great progress in climate-centric initiatives as it had ramped up solar energy capacity 20-fold in just a few years. “India is among the top four nations in the world in terms of wind energy. In the electric vehicle revolution, India is playing an important role in both innovation and adoption,” he said. The prime minister said initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure are bringing countries together for the planet. He said the ISA has got a great response with over 100 countries joining it. “Our Mission LiFE initiative focuses on Lifestyle for Environment. Today, in each society we have people who are health conscious. What they buy, what they eat, what they do – each decision is based on how it serves their health,” the prime minister said. Modi said their choices are not only guided by how it will affect them today but also by the long-term impact. “Similarly, people across the world can come together to become planet-conscious. Each lifestyle decision can be made based on what impact it will have on the planet in the long term,” the prime minister said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Need to alter approach on climate action from restrictive to constructive: Indian PM Modi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India's economic growth is a "natural by-product" of his nine-year-old government's political stability, as he expressed optimism that it will be a developed nation by 2047 with "corruption, casteism and communalism" having no place in our national life.</p>

<p>In an exclusive interview with PTI, the prime minister also stressed on the need for timely and clear communication of policy stance by central banks, and policy actions by each country in their fight against inflation so that it can prevent negative repercussions on others countries.<br />
<br />
While most advanced economies are facing an economic slowdown, chronic shortages, high inflation, and ageing populations, the Indian economy is acknowledged to be the fastest-growing large economy with the largest youth population.<br />
<br />
"For a long time in world history, India was one of the top economies of the world. Later, due to the impact of colonisation of various kinds, our global footprint was reduced," he said.<br />
<br />
"But now, India is again on the rise. The speed with which we jumped five spots, from the 10th largest economy to the fifth largest in less than a decade has conveyed the fact that India means business," he noted.<br />
<br />
Adding a fourth 'D' - development - to the 3Ds of democracy, demography and diversity, he said the period till 2047 is one of huge opportunity and "Indians who are living in this era have a great chance to lay a foundation for growth that will be remembered for the next thousand years." India's USD 3.39 trillion GDP overtook that of the UK in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, making it the fifth-largest economy in the world behind the US, China, Japan and Germany.<br />
<br />
In the three decades before 2014, Modi said, the country saw many governments that were unstable and therefore, unable to get much done.<br />
<br />
"But in the last few years, the people have given a decisive mandate [to BJP], which has led to a stable government, predictable policies and clarity in the overall direction," he said.</p>

<p>"This stability is the reason that over the past nine years, several reforms were brought in." These reforms, related to the economy, education, financial sector, banks, digitalisation, welfare, inclusion and social sector, have laid a strong foundation, and “growth is a natural by-product," he said.</p>

<p>The rapid and sustained progress made by India has evoked interest across the world and many countries have been "watching our growth story very closely."</p>

<p>"They are convinced that this progress is not an accident but is happening as a result of a clear, action-oriented roadmap of 'Reform, Perform, Transform'," he said. "For a long time, India was perceived as a nation of over one billion hungry stomachs. But now, India is being seen as a nation of over one billion aspirational minds, more than two billion skilled hands, and hundreds of millions of young people," he said.<br />
<br />
He noted that India is home to more than 100 unicorns, is the third-largest start-up hub and its space sector's achievements are being celebrated the world over. India is also breaking all previous records in almost every global sports event and more universities are entering the top rankings of the world year after year, he said.<br />
<br />
"With such momentum, I am positive that we will be in the top three economies in the near future," he said.<br />
<br />
"By 2047, I am sure that our country will be among the developed countries." Modi said that as a developed nation, the Indian economy will be even more inclusive and innovative, poor people will comprehensively win the battle against poverty, and the nation's health, education and social sector outcomes will be among the best in the world.<br />
<br />
"Corruption, casteism and communalism will have no place in our national life," he said.<br />
<br />
"The quality of life of our people will be on par with the best countries of the world. Most importantly, we will achieve all of this while caring for both nature and culture," he said.<br />
<br />
EY projects India's GDP to cross USD 5 trillion by 2028 to overtake both Japan and Germany. But the US economy is projected to still be nearly six times as large as the Indian economy.<br />
<br />
The prime minister said inflation is a key issue that the world faces.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-sets-the-tone-for-un-security-council-reforms-before-hosting-g20-leaders-631947">Modi sets the tone for UN Security Council reforms before hosting G20 leaders</a></strong><br />
<br />
"Our G-20 Presidency engaged the G-20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors. It was recognised that timely and clear communication of policy stances by Central Banks is crucial. This can ensure that policies taken by each country to combat inflation do not lead to negative repercussions in other countries," he said.<br />
<br />
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has been targeting proposals to reduce incentives for tax planning and avoidance by limiting tax competition and changing where companies pay taxes.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's G20 presidency: what to expect?</strong></p>

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<p>Pillar 1 of the OECD proposal expands a country's authority to tax profits from companies that make sales into their country but don't have a physical location there.</p>

<p>"This convention will allow countries and jurisdictions to move forward with historic, major reform of the international tax system," Modi said. "As you can see, there is substantial progress across many issues.<br />
<br />
This is also a result of the confidence that other partner countries have shown in India's Presidency."</p>

<p>In a recent report, Morgan Stanley called the nine years of Modi government transformational and listed bringing corporate tax at par with peers, infrastructure investment picking pace, rising collection of GST and the increasing share of digital transactions as a percentage of GDP as major initiatives.</p>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India's economic growth is a "natural by-product" of his nine-year-old government's political stability, as he expressed optimism that it will be a developed nation by 2047 with "corruption, casteism and communalism" having no place in our national life.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India's economic growth is a "natural by-product" of his nine-year-old government's political stability, as he expressed optimism that it will be a developed nation by 2047 with "corruption, casteism and communalism" having no place in our national life. In an exclusive interview with PTI, the prime minister also stressed on the need for timely and clear communication of policy stance by central banks, and policy actions by each country in their fight against inflation so that it can prevent negative repercussions on others countries. While most advanced economies are facing an economic slowdown, chronic shortages, high inflation, and ageing populations, the Indian economy is acknowledged to be the fastest-growing large economy with the largest youth population. "For a long time in world history, India was one of the top economies of the world. Later, due to the impact of colonisation of various kinds, our global footprint was reduced," he said. "But now, India is again on the rise. The speed with which we jumped five spots, from the 10th largest economy to the fifth largest in less than a decade has conveyed the fact that India means business," he noted. Adding a fourth 'D' - development - to the 3Ds of democracy, demography and diversity, he said the period till 2047 is one of huge opportunity and "Indians who are living in this era have a great chance to lay a foundation for growth that will be remembered for the next thousand years." India's USD 3.39 trillion GDP overtook that of the UK in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, making it the fifth-largest economy in the world behind the US, China, Japan and Germany. In the three decades before 2014, Modi said, the country saw many governments that were unstable and therefore, unable to get much done. "But in the last few years, the people have given a decisive mandate [to BJP], which has led to a stable government, predictable policies and clarity in the overall direction," he said. "This stability is the reason that over the past nine years, several reforms were brought in." These reforms, related to the economy, education, financial sector, banks, digitalisation, welfare, inclusion and social sector, have laid a strong foundation, and “growth is a natural by-product," he said. The rapid and sustained progress made by India has evoked interest across the world and many countries have been "watching our growth story very closely." "They are convinced that this progress is not an accident but is happening as a result of a clear, action-oriented roadmap of 'Reform, Perform, Transform'," he said. "For a long time, India was perceived as a nation of over one billion hungry stomachs. But now, India is being seen as a nation of over one billion aspirational minds, more than two billion skilled hands, and hundreds of millions of young people," he said. He noted that India is home to more than 100 unicorns, is the third-largest start-up hub and its space sector's achievements are being celebrated the world over. India is also breaking all previous records in almost every global sports event and more universities are entering the top rankings of the world year after year, he said. "With such momentum, I am positive that we will be in the top three economies in the near future," he said. "By 2047, I am sure that our country will be among the developed countries." Modi said that as a developed nation, the Indian economy will be even more inclusive and innovative, poor people will comprehensively win the battle against poverty, and the nation's health, education and social sector outcomes will be among the best in the world. "Corruption, casteism and communalism will have no place in our national life," he said. "The quality of life of our people will be on par with the best countries of the world. Most importantly, we will achieve all of this while caring for both nature and culture," he said. EY projects India's GDP to cross USD 5 trillion by 2028 to overtake both Japan and Germany. But the US economy is projected to still be nearly six times as large as the Indian economy. The prime minister said inflation is a key issue that the world faces. Also read | Modi sets the tone for UN Security Council reforms before hosting G20 leaders "Our G-20 Presidency engaged the G-20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors. It was recognised that timely and clear communication of policy stances by Central Banks is crucial. This can ensure that policies taken by each country to combat inflation do not lead to negative repercussions in other countries," he said. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has been targeting proposals to reduce incentives for tax planning and avoidance by limiting tax competition and changing where companies pay taxes. Also watch | India's G20 presidency: what to expect? × Pillar 1 of the OECD proposal expands a country's authority to tax profits from companies that make sales into their country but don't have a physical location there. "This convention will allow countries and jurisdictions to move forward with historic, major reform of the international tax system," Modi said. "As you can see, there is substantial progress across many issues. This is also a result of the confidence that other partner countries have shown in India's Presidency." In a recent report, Morgan Stanley called the nine years of Modi government transformational and listed bringing corporate tax at par with peers, infrastructure investment picking pace, rising collection of GST and the increasing share of digital transactions as a percentage of GDP as major initiatives. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India will be developed nation by 2047, says PM Modi, hails last 'nine years of stability'

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ahead of G-20 leaders' summit in New Delhi, called for reform of the United Nations to match the changing geo-economic realities of the world and ensure representation of voices that matter.</p>

<p>Modi's call resonates with South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, who during last month's BRICS summit in Johannesburg called for reforms in the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-president-ramaphosa-calls-for-unsc-reform-sets-pitch-for-brics-expansion-ahead-of-summit-627366">South Africa's President Ramaphosa calls for UNSC reform, sets pitch for BRICS expansion</a></strong></p>

<p>In an exclusive interview to the Press Trust of India, Modi said the G20 is one of the institutions that is being looked at with "hope" by many countries as the world is looking for actions and outcomes, "no matter where they come from."</p>

<p>India will host the annual summit of the influential grouping in New Delhi on September 9 and 10.<br />
<br />
"Today's world is a multipolar world where institutions are extremely important for a rules-based order that is fair and sensitive to all concerns. However, institutions can retain relevance only when they change with the times," the prime minister said.<br />
<br />
"A mid-20th century approach cannot serve the world in the 21st century. So, our international institutions need to recognise changing realities, expand their decision-making forums, relook at their priorities and ensure representation of voices that matter," he said.<br />
<br />
"When this is not done on time, then smaller or regional forums begin to attain more importance," Modi said in the 80-minute interview.<br />
<br />
"The G20 is certainly one of the institutions that is being looked at with hope by many countries. Because the world is looking for actions and outcomes, no matter where they come from,"&nbsp;PM Modi said while noting&nbsp;that India's presidency of the G-20 has come at such a juncture.</p>

<h2><strong>India a growth engine of the world: Modi</strong></h2>

<p>"In this context, India's position within the global framework becomes especially pertinent. As a diverse nation, the Mother of Democracy, the home to one of the world's largest populations of youth, and the growth engine of the world, India has a lot to contribute to the shaping of the future of the world," he said.<br />
<br />
"The G20 has provided a platform for India to further its human-centric vision and also collaboratively work towards innovative solutions to problems that are faced by humanity as a whole."</p>

<p>India has been pressing for reform of the United Nations, especially the UN Security Council.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India's G20 presidency: what to expect?</strong></p>

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<p>New Delhi has been particularly upset over lack of any meaningful movement forward in the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on Security Council reform. India, along with Brazil, Germany and Japan is part of the G4 grouping that seeks reforms in the United Nations.</p>

<p>India is a strong contender for a permanent membership at the UN Security Council (UNSC).<br />
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At present, the UNSC comprises five permanent members and 10 non-permanent member countries which are elected for a two-year term by the General Assembly of the UN.<br />
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The five permanent members are Russia, the UK, China, France and the United States and these countries can veto any substantive resolution.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ahead of G-20 leaders' summit in New Delhi, called for reform of the United Nations to match the changing geo-economic realities of the world and ensure representation of voices that matter.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ahead of G-20 leaders' summit in New Delhi, called for reform of the United Nations to match the changing geo-economic realities of the world and ensure representation of voices that matter. Modi's call resonates with South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa, who during last month's BRICS summit in Johannesburg called for reforms in the United Nations Security Council. Also read | South Africa's President Ramaphosa calls for UNSC reform, sets pitch for BRICS expansion In an exclusive interview to the Press Trust of India, Modi said the G20 is one of the institutions that is being looked at with "hope" by many countries as the world is looking for actions and outcomes, "no matter where they come from." India will host the annual summit of the influential grouping in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. "Today's world is a multipolar world where institutions are extremely important for a rules-based order that is fair and sensitive to all concerns. However, institutions can retain relevance only when they change with the times," the prime minister said. "A mid-20th century approach cannot serve the world in the 21st century. So, our international institutions need to recognise changing realities, expand their decision-making forums, relook at their priorities and ensure representation of voices that matter," he said. "When this is not done on time, then smaller or regional forums begin to attain more importance," Modi said in the 80-minute interview. "The G20 is certainly one of the institutions that is being looked at with hope by many countries. Because the world is looking for actions and outcomes, no matter where they come from," PM Modi said while noting that India's presidency of the G-20 has come at such a juncture. India a growth engine of the world: Modi "In this context, India's position within the global framework becomes especially pertinent. As a diverse nation, the Mother of Democracy, the home to one of the world's largest populations of youth, and the growth engine of the world, India has a lot to contribute to the shaping of the future of the world," he said. "The G20 has provided a platform for India to further its human-centric vision and also collaboratively work towards innovative solutions to problems that are faced by humanity as a whole." India has been pressing for reform of the United Nations, especially the UN Security Council. Also read | India's G20 presidency: what to expect? × New Delhi has been particularly upset over lack of any meaningful movement forward in the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on Security Council reform. India, along with Brazil, Germany and Japan is part of the G4 grouping that seeks reforms in the United Nations. India is a strong contender for a permanent membership at the UN Security Council (UNSC). At present, the UNSC comprises five permanent members and 10 non-permanent member countries which are elected for a two-year term by the General Assembly of the UN. The five permanent members are Russia, the UK, China, France and the United States and these countries can veto any substantive resolution. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian PM Modi sets the tone for UN Security Council reforms before hosting G20 leaders

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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his ministers on Saturday (September 2) congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the successful launch of <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aditya-l-1-launch-indian-rocket-lifts-off-to-take-country-closer-to-sun-after-moon-landmark-631652">India's first solar mission </a></strong>Aditya L-1 to study the Sun. Sharing a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Prime Minister Modi said, "After the success of Chandrayaan-3, India continues its space journey. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers at ISRO for the successful launch of India’s first Solar Mission, Aditya -L1."</p>

<p>Modi added that India's tireless scientific efforts will continue to develop a better understanding of the Universe for the welfare of entire humanity.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After the success of Chandrayaan-3, India continues its space journey.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to our scientists and engineers at <a href="https://twitter.com/isro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@isro</a> for the successful launch of India’s first Solar Mission, Aditya -L1.<br />
<br />
Our tireless scientific efforts will continue in order to develop better…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1697873881221231055?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>India's Science Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, who was present at Sriharikota to witness the momentous occasion&nbsp;said the launch of Aditya L-1 was a "sunshine moment" for the country.<br />
<br />
"This remarkable endeavour promises to unlock the secrets of our nearest star, shedding light on its mysteries and enhancing our understanding of space weather," Indian Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari posted on X.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aditya-l1-special-puja-prayers-at-sun-temple-for-indias-maiden-sun-mission-631684">Aditya-L1: Special puja &amp; prayers at 'Sun temple' for India's maiden Sun mission</a></strong></p>

<p>President Droupadi Murmu, meanwhile, said the launch "will help us better understand space and celestial phenomena."</p>

<h2><strong>Launch of Aditya-L1 by PSLV-C57 accomplished successfully: ISRO</strong></h2>

<p>The ISRO said on Saturday that the launch of Aditya-L1 by PSLV-C57 was accomplished successfully. "The vehicle has placed the satellite precisely into its intended orbit. India’s first solar observatory has begun its journey to the destination of Sun-Earth L1 point," ISRO posted on X.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, ISRO chairperson S Somanath said, "The Aditya L1 spacecraft has been injected in an elliptical orbit...which is intended very precisely by the PSLV. I want to congratulate the PSLV for such a different mission approach today to put Aditya L1 in the right orbit."</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> | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches India's first solar mission, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AdityaL1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AdityaL1</a> from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.<br />
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Aditya L1 is carrying seven different payloads to have a detailed study of the Sun. <a href="https://t.co/Eo5bzQi5SO">pic.twitter.com/Eo5bzQi5SO</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1697857372495233078?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Aditya L-1 is destined to travel 1.5 million kilometres over four months, far short of the sun, which is 150 million km from Earth, a report by the news agency Reuters said. It is meant to stop its journey in a kind of parking lot in space, called a Lagrange Point, where objects tend to stay put because of balancing gravitational forces, thereby reducing fuel consumption for the spacecraft.</p>

<p>The spacecraft took flight barely a week after India became the first country to land on the south pole of the Moon. On August 23, ISRO announced the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft at the lunar south pole.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pushed by PM Modi, India has privatised space launches and is looking to open the sector to foreign investment as it targets a five-fold increase in its share of the global launch market within the next decade. Modi is also pushing for India's space missions to play a larger role on a world stage dominated by the United States and China.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his ministers on Saturday (September 2) congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the successful launch of India's first solar mission Aditya L-1 to study the Sun.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his ministers on Saturday (September 2) congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the successful launch of India's first solar mission Aditya L-1 to study the Sun. Sharing a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Prime Minister Modi said, "After the success of Chandrayaan-3, India continues its space journey. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers at ISRO for the successful launch of India’s first Solar Mission, Aditya -L1." Modi added that India's tireless scientific efforts will continue to develop a better understanding of the Universe for the welfare of entire humanity. After the success of Chandrayaan-3, India continues its space journey. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers at @isro for the successful launch of India’s first Solar Mission, Aditya -L1. Our tireless scientific efforts will continue in order to develop better… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 2, 2023 × India's Science Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, who was present at Sriharikota to witness the momentous occasion said the launch of Aditya L-1 was a "sunshine moment" for the country. "This remarkable endeavour promises to unlock the secrets of our nearest star, shedding light on its mysteries and enhancing our understanding of space weather," Indian Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari posted on X. Also read | Aditya-L1: Special puja & prayers at 'Sun temple' for India's maiden Sun mission President Droupadi Murmu, meanwhile, said the launch "will help us better understand space and celestial phenomena." Launch of Aditya-L1 by PSLV-C57 accomplished successfully: ISRO The ISRO said on Saturday that the launch of Aditya-L1 by PSLV-C57 was accomplished successfully. "The vehicle has placed the satellite precisely into its intended orbit. India’s first solar observatory has begun its journey to the destination of Sun-Earth L1 point," ISRO posted on X. Meanwhile, ISRO chairperson S Somanath said, "The Aditya L1 spacecraft has been injected in an elliptical orbit...which is intended very precisely by the PSLV. I want to congratulate the PSLV for such a different mission approach today to put Aditya L1 in the right orbit." #WATCH | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches India's first solar mission, #AdityaL1 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. Aditya L1 is carrying seven different payloads to have a detailed study of the Sun. pic.twitter.com/Eo5bzQi5SO — ANI (@ANI) September 2, 2023 × The Aditya L-1 is destined to travel 1.5 million kilometres over four months, far short of the sun, which is 150 million km from Earth, a report by the news agency Reuters said. It is meant to stop its journey in a kind of parking lot in space, called a Lagrange Point, where objects tend to stay put because of balancing gravitational forces, thereby reducing fuel consumption for the spacecraft. The spacecraft took flight barely a week after India became the first country to land on the south pole of the Moon. On August 23, ISRO announced the successful landing of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft at the lunar south pole. Pushed by PM Modi, India has privatised space launches and is looking to open the sector to foreign investment as it targets a five-fold increase in its share of the global launch market within the next decade. Modi is also pushing for India's space missions to play a larger role on a world stage dominated by the United States and China. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's ‘sunshine moment’: PM Modi, ministers congratulate ISRO for Aditya L-1 launch

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 31) congratulated India's first indigenously developed 700MW nuclear power plant in the western state of Gujarat's Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) to start operations at full capacity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>M Modi said on 'X', formerly known as Twitter: "India achieves another milestone. The first largest indigenous 700 MWe Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 in Gujarat starts operations at full capacity. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reactor at the power project started commercial operations on June 30 but has been operating at 90 per cent of its capacity till now. The officials have said that various commissioning activities were underway at KAPP 4, which had achieved 97.56 per cent progress by July.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India achieves another milestone.<br />
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The first largest indigenous 700 MWe Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 in Gujarat starts operations at full capacity.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to our scientists and engineers.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1697259968775479428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The NPCIL plans to build 16 700 MW PHWRs across the country and has granted financial and administrative sanctions for the same. Construction of 700 MW nuclear power plants is underway at Rawatbhata in Rajasthan (RAPS 7 and 8) and at Gorakhpur in Haryana (GHAVP 1 and 2).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah also congratulated all those who were involved in the project. "India's power acquires a new dimension today as our largest indigenous 700 MWe Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 in Gujarat starts operations at full capacity. It is a firm step towards attaining PM @narendramodi Ji's vision of self-sufficiency in power production. My heartfelt congratulations to the scientists and engineers involved in the project," Shah wrote on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 31) congratulated India's first indigenously developed 700MW nuclear power plant in the western state of Gujarat's Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) to start operations at full capacity.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 31) congratulated India's first indigenously developed 700MW nuclear power plant in the western state of Gujarat's Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) to start operations at full capacity. M Modi said on 'X', formerly known as Twitter: "India achieves another milestone. The first largest indigenous 700 MWe Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 in Gujarat starts operations at full capacity. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers." The reactor at the power project started commercial operations on June 30 but has been operating at 90 per cent of its capacity till now. The officials have said that various commissioning activities were underway at KAPP 4, which had achieved 97.56 per cent progress by July. India achieves another milestone. The first largest indigenous 700 MWe Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 in Gujarat starts operations at full capacity. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 31, 2023 × The NPCIL plans to build 16 700 MW PHWRs across the country and has granted financial and administrative sanctions for the same. Construction of 700 MW nuclear power plants is underway at Rawatbhata in Rajasthan (RAPS 7 and 8) and at Gorakhpur in Haryana (GHAVP 1 and 2). Union Home Minister Amit Shah also congratulated all those who were involved in the project. "India's power acquires a new dimension today as our largest indigenous 700 MWe Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 in Gujarat starts operations at full capacity. It is a firm step towards attaining PM @narendramodi Ji's vision of self-sufficiency in power production. My heartfelt congratulations to the scientists and engineers involved in the project," Shah wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant starts operations at full capacity: PM Modi hails 'another milestone'

<p>The opposition INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) alliance not only intends to fight the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) electorally but wants to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party in the information warfare department as well.</p>

<p>According to the New Delhi-based Hindu newspaper, the opposition parties are mulling forming a common social media team in a bid to reach a wider audience, encompassing the current social media outreach of all the INDIA constituents.</p>

<p>The paper, quoting sources, reported that this social media outreach will not only be limited to microblogging sites like X or Facebook but will also tap into the vast network of WhatsApp groups that each party maintains.</p>

<p>“It is time we have micro-messaging. The voter sitting in the remotest corner of the country should be aware of what our policies are and what we stand for,” the source was quoted as saying.</p>

<h2><strong>Oppn members gather in Mumbai</strong></h2>

<p>As INDIA alliance parties, 28 in total, are set to meet in India’s financial capital Mumbai for their third meeting on Friday (Sept 1), there have been murmurs that they would be focussing on creating a joint apparatus that will include a coordination committee, a secretariat for election management, a common research wing, 10 INDIA spokespersons drawn from different parties, a common media team, and a committee to frame a national agenda, the report stated.</p>

<p>The parties may also finalise their common campaign issues and a joint action schedule for public rallies and other outreach programmes.</p>

<p>The development comes as the ruling dispensation of Narendra Modi has called for a special Parliament session from September 18 to 22.</p>

<h2><strong>Special parliament session</strong></h2>

<p>While it is unclear why this special meeting has been called in, media reports say that the central government would most likely bring several “game-changer” bills ahead of the general elections in May next year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-centre-sets-up-committee-to-explore-one-nation-one-election-proposal-ex-prez-to-head-panel-631087">India: Centre sets up committee to explore 'One Nation, One Election' proposal</a></p>

<p>Among the possible legislations that will be tabled include ‘One Nation, One Election' proposal, reservation for women in parliament, Uniform Civil Code— a comprehensive set of common laws for all religions governing personal matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, custody, alimony and others. It aims at ensuring equality among all religions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/moving-beyond-symbolism-opposition-alliance-india-to-hold-two-day-meeting-in-mumbai-630706">Moving beyond symbolism?: Opposition alliance INDIA to hold two-day meeting in Mumbai</a></p>

<p>'One Nation, One Election' proposal refers to holding the Lok Sabha (Lower House) and state assembly polls simultaneously across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his party leaders have repeatedly spoken on the issue, stating that holding elections every few months costs the exchequer more money while detracting political leaders from performing welfare duties for the public.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The opposition INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) alliance not only intends to fight the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) electorally but wants to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party in the information warfare department as well.

The opposition INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) alliance not only intends to fight the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) electorally but wants to take on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party in the information warfare department as well. According to the New Delhi-based Hindu newspaper, the opposition parties are mulling forming a common social media team in a bid to reach a wider audience, encompassing the current social media outreach of all the INDIA constituents. The paper, quoting sources, reported that this social media outreach will not only be limited to microblogging sites like X or Facebook but will also tap into the vast network of WhatsApp groups that each party maintains. “It is time we have micro-messaging. The voter sitting in the remotest corner of the country should be aware of what our policies are and what we stand for,” the source was quoted as saying. Oppn members gather in Mumbai As INDIA alliance parties, 28 in total, are set to meet in India’s financial capital Mumbai for their third meeting on Friday (Sept 1), there have been murmurs that they would be focussing on creating a joint apparatus that will include a coordination committee, a secretariat for election management, a common research wing, 10 INDIA spokespersons drawn from different parties, a common media team, and a committee to frame a national agenda, the report stated. The parties may also finalise their common campaign issues and a joint action schedule for public rallies and other outreach programmes. The development comes as the ruling dispensation of Narendra Modi has called for a special Parliament session from September 18 to 22. Special parliament session While it is unclear why this special meeting has been called in, media reports say that the central government would most likely bring several “game-changer” bills ahead of the general elections in May next year. Also read | India: Centre sets up committee to explore 'One Nation, One Election' proposal Among the possible legislations that will be tabled include ‘One Nation, One Election' proposal, reservation for women in parliament, Uniform Civil Code— a comprehensive set of common laws for all religions governing personal matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, custody, alimony and others. It aims at ensuring equality among all religions. Also read | Moving beyond symbolism?: Opposition alliance INDIA to hold two-day meeting in Mumbai 'One Nation, One Election' proposal refers to holding the Lok Sabha (Lower House) and state assembly polls simultaneously across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his party leaders have repeatedly spoken on the issue, stating that holding elections every few months costs the exchequer more money while detracting political leaders from performing welfare duties for the public. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Opposition INDIA alliance may form common social media team to take on BJP: Report

<p>The latest survey conducted by the Pew Research Centre has revealed that about 80 per cent of Indians hold positive views about Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The survey engaged more than 30,000 adults worldwide, which also gave insights into how the world perceives India ahead of its inevitable rise as a great power.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi still wildly popular among Indians</strong></h2>

<p>Ahead of the general elections slated to be held in 2024, the majority of Indians still show support for PM Modi’s nine-year-old government.</p>

<p>While 79 per cent of Indians held a positive opinion of him, 55 per cent expressed a “very favourable” view.</p>

<p>On the flip side, a mere 20 per cent of Indians said they viewed Modi’s government negatively.</p>

<h2><strong>About India’s geopolitical status</strong></h2>

<p>According to the Pew Research Survey, 68 per cent of Indians believe India’s geopolitical status has risen over the past years. On the other hand, only 19 per cent of Indians think India has witnessed a decline in terms of global prestige.</p>

<p>The study also offers trends regarding how people from different countries view India, especially those from G20 nations.</p>

<p>While the majority of the people view India in a positive light, the survey indicates that India’s favourability has taken a hit in European nations.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;The India Story | Vikram Chandra explains Israel's growing partnership with India</strong></p>

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<p>For example, in France, the number of people holding positive views about India fell from 70 per cent 15 years ago to a mere 39 per cent in 2023.</p>

<p>The Pew survey unveiled a median of 46 per cent favourability towards India worldwide, with 34 per cent holding an unfavourable opinion.</p>

<h2><strong>Israelis highly positive about India</strong></h2>

<p>When it comes to bilateral relations with India, Israel stood out remarkably. Among all the countries surveyed, a significant 71 per cent of Israeli respondents held a favourable opinion of India, marking the highest percentage.</p>

<p>Likewise, 41 per cent of Indian participants observed an increase in Russia's influence, while 21 per cent believed it had decreased. Of all the public surveyed, Indians are the ones who are most likely to believe that Russian President Vladimir Putin will do the right thing in regard to international affairs.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-israel-to-share-expertise-and-tech-in-water-management-at-new-facility-in-iit-madras-593234"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India, Israel to share expertise and tech in water management at new facility in IIT-Madras</strong></a></p>

<p>On the other hand, India's perception of China remained largely negative, with 67 per cent expressing an unfavourable view, the highest proportion among all the surveyed nations. This sentiment reflects the continuous border tensions between the two countries since 2020.</p>

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The latest survey conducted by the Pew Research Centre has revealed that about 80 per cent of Indians hold positive views about Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The survey engaged more than 30,000 adults worldwide, which also gave insights into how the world perceives India ahead of its inevitable rise as a great power.

The latest survey conducted by the Pew Research Centre has revealed that about 80 per cent of Indians hold positive views about Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The survey engaged more than 30,000 adults worldwide, which also gave insights into how the world perceives India ahead of its inevitable rise as a great power. PM Modi still wildly popular among Indians Ahead of the general elections slated to be held in 2024, the majority of Indians still show support for PM Modi’s nine-year-old government. While 79 per cent of Indians held a positive opinion of him, 55 per cent expressed a “very favourable” view. On the flip side, a mere 20 per cent of Indians said they viewed Modi’s government negatively. About India’s geopolitical status According to the Pew Research Survey, 68 per cent of Indians believe India’s geopolitical status has risen over the past years. On the other hand, only 19 per cent of Indians think India has witnessed a decline in terms of global prestige. The study also offers trends regarding how people from different countries view India, especially those from G20 nations. While the majority of the people view India in a positive light, the survey indicates that India’s favourability has taken a hit in European nations. WATCH: The India Story | Vikram Chandra explains Israel's growing partnership with India × For example, in France, the number of people holding positive views about India fell from 70 per cent 15 years ago to a mere 39 per cent in 2023. The Pew survey unveiled a median of 46 per cent favourability towards India worldwide, with 34 per cent holding an unfavourable opinion. Israelis highly positive about India When it comes to bilateral relations with India, Israel stood out remarkably. Among all the countries surveyed, a significant 71 per cent of Israeli respondents held a favourable opinion of India, marking the highest percentage. Likewise, 41 per cent of Indian participants observed an increase in Russia's influence, while 21 per cent believed it had decreased. Of all the public surveyed, Indians are the ones who are most likely to believe that Russian President Vladimir Putin will do the right thing in regard to international affairs. Also read: India, Israel to share expertise and tech in water management at new facility in IIT-Madras On the other hand, India's perception of China remained largely negative, with 67 per cent expressing an unfavourable view, the highest proportion among all the surveyed nations. This sentiment reflects the continuous border tensions between the two countries since 2020. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

PM Modi widely popular, India’s favourability takes a hit in Europe: Survey

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<p>South Korean entrepreneur Zena Chung, who is president of the Indo-Korea Business Culture Center, has been awarded the Grand Prize for the 100 most proud Koreans for this year. Chung received the award on August 16 at the Baek Beom Kim Koo Memorial Hall in Seoul for "contributing to publicising the excellence of Korean culture and art at home and abroad," a statement said.</p>

<p>Chung said, "I am very honoured to receive such a great award. After graduating from Hadong Girls’ Middle School and Jinju Girls’ High School, and living abroad for a long time in the United States, Canada, and India, I always missed Korea and my alma mater."</p>

<p><img alt="Zena Chung photographed with the Grand Prize for the 100 most proud Koreans for this year. " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a6c7eea4-6d47-48d7-8303-8d24d9c372b2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-08-29%20at%2011.04.38.jpeg" /></p>

<p><em><strong>(Photograph: Zena Chung is seen with the&nbsp;Grand Prize for the 100 most proud Koreans for this year.)</strong></em></p>

<p>She added that she wants to promote South Korea's excellent cultural and artistic qualities in other countries around the world through cultural and art exchanges and cooperation between the federal, local and provincial governments, and overseas companies.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Zena Chung?</strong></h2>

<p>Chung is a Korean-Canadian entrepreneur who currently lives in Seoul. She operates a trading company called Eva Global Holdings and has plans to operate Indo-Korea Business Culture Centers across India.</p>

<p>As per <strong><a href="http://zenachung.com/">her website</a></strong>, Chung also works with the Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO), a state-funded trade promotion organisation under the Indian government. She was appointed as the board’s director of the South Korea Committee and also Foreign Investors Council in June 2020.</p>

<p><img alt="Chung photographed with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the upcoming G20 summit." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="69fe6902-5a16-4da8-892e-d1944b27610c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-08-29%20at%2011.11.19.jpeg" /></p>

<p><em><strong>(Photograph: Zena Chung is seen with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who will be meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi)</strong></em></p>

<p>She was awarded for making it to the “100 Successful Women in Business” list hosted by the Global Trade Chamber in the United States, the website says.</p>

<p><img alt="Chung photographed with former South Korean president Moon Jae-in who is known to be a good friend of Indian PM Modi." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="95ca93c2-942b-4f41-86e1-d280f72cb50f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-08-29%20at%2011.08.14.jpeg" /></p>

<p><strong><em>(Photograph: Chung is seen with former South Korean president&nbsp;Moon Jae-in, who is known to be good friends with PM Modi.)</em></strong></p>

<p>On August 16, Chung had a meeting with the governor of the North Gyungsang Province for India-South Korea cooperation. And a day later, she met the mayor of Gimhae City for India-South Korea ties.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Chung seeks support to build Ram temple in South Korea</strong></h2>

<p>Chung has been in talks for several months to garner support for her proposal to build a Lord Ram temple in the Korean city of Gimhae. This comes on the lines of the Ram temple being built in Ayodhya in India's Uttar Pradesh state.</p>

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South Korean entrepreneur Zena Chung, who is president of the Indo-Korea Business Culture Center, has been awarded the Grand Prize for the 100 most proud Koreans for this year.

South Korean entrepreneur Zena Chung, who is president of the Indo-Korea Business Culture Center, has been awarded the Grand Prize for the 100 most proud Koreans for this year. Chung received the award on August 16 at the Baek Beom Kim Koo Memorial Hall in Seoul for "contributing to publicising the excellence of Korean culture and art at home and abroad," a statement said. Chung said, "I am very honoured to receive such a great award. After graduating from Hadong Girls’ Middle School and Jinju Girls’ High School, and living abroad for a long time in the United States, Canada, and India, I always missed Korea and my alma mater." (Photograph: Zena Chung is seen with the Grand Prize for the 100 most proud Koreans for this year.) She added that she wants to promote South Korea's excellent cultural and artistic qualities in other countries around the world through cultural and art exchanges and cooperation between the federal, local and provincial governments, and overseas companies. Who is Zena Chung? Chung is a Korean-Canadian entrepreneur who currently lives in Seoul. She operates a trading company called Eva Global Holdings and has plans to operate Indo-Korea Business Culture Centers across India. As per her website, Chung also works with the Indian Economic Trade Organization (IETO), a state-funded trade promotion organisation under the Indian government. She was appointed as the board’s director of the South Korea Committee and also Foreign Investors Council in June 2020. (Photograph: Zena Chung is seen with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who will be meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi) She was awarded for making it to the “100 Successful Women in Business” list hosted by the Global Trade Chamber in the United States, the website says. (Photograph: Chung is seen with former South Korean president Moon Jae-in, who is known to be good friends with PM Modi.) On August 16, Chung had a meeting with the governor of the North Gyungsang Province for India-South Korea cooperation. And a day later, she met the mayor of Gimhae City for India-South Korea ties. Chung seeks support to build Ram temple in South Korea Chung has been in talks for several months to garner support for her proposal to build a Lord Ram temple in the Korean city of Gimhae. This comes on the lines of the Ram temple being built in Ayodhya in India's Uttar Pradesh state. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korean entrepreneur Zena Chung awarded with country's prestigious Grand Prize

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October, Bloomberg reported while citing three people with knowledge of the matter. The visit would be Putin's first since an arrest warrant was issued against the Russian president for alleged war crimes, which the Kremlin has vehemently denied.</p>

<p>Preparations are now underway in Moscow for Putin's visit as Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly accepted Chinese leader Xi Jinping's invitation for the top flagship project of his presidency.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><b>Putin will not visit India for G-20 but will visit China for BRI forum?</b></h2>

<p>That's pretty much it. Vladimir Putin, in a telephonic conversation with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 28, cited his "busy schedule" and said that his main focus is still the "special military operation" in Ukraine for his inability to attend the G-20 summit in New Delhi in September.</p>

<p>Another facet of the discourse remains that New Delhi has vehemently opposed the G20 summit to emerge as a forum for focus on war in Ukraine, saying that it's a "geo-economic" platform and that the "(UN) Security Council" exists for conflict resolutions.</p>

<p>Putin in the New Delhi G-20 summit would have made him and by extension the war in Ukraine the top focus of a crucial multilateral meeting.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India</strong></p>

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<p>Secondly, Putin is reportedly willing to visit countries where his security service can completely guarantee his safety, and China is one of those places, according to two people cited by Bloomberg.</p>

<p>Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov said in July that Putin planned to visit China for the forum, while Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev said that China had invited the Russian leader as the "main guest" at the event, the state-run TASS news service reported in May.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-likely-to-visit-china-in-october-to-attend-bri-forum-615082">Vladimir Putin likely to visit China in October to attend BRI Summit</a></strong></p>

<p>In March 2023, The Hague-based International Criminal Court issued a warrant against Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Globally, a total of 123 nations are signatories to the Rome Statute of International Criminal Court which makes them bound to act on the orders passed by the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China and India are not signatories to the Rome Statute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In last week's BRICS summit, Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov instead of Vladimir Putin. Pretoria is a signatory to the Rome Statute, meaning that it was supposed to comply with the order to arrest Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin has only visited neighbouring countries and Iran.</p>

<p>Putin last visited China right before the beginning of the war in Ukraine when he attended the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing and held talks with Xi Jinping at which the two sides declared a "no limits" partnership.</p>

<p>Xi, however, travelled to Moscow for a state visit in March.</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October, Bloomberg reported while citing three people with knowledge of the matter.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October, Bloomberg reported while citing three people with knowledge of the matter. The visit would be Putin's first since an arrest warrant was issued against the Russian president for alleged war crimes, which the Kremlin has vehemently denied. Preparations are now underway in Moscow for Putin's visit as Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly accepted Chinese leader Xi Jinping's invitation for the top flagship project of his presidency. Putin will not visit India for G-20 but will visit China for BRI forum? That's pretty much it. Vladimir Putin, in a telephonic conversation with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 28, cited his "busy schedule" and said that his main focus is still the "special military operation" in Ukraine for his inability to attend the G-20 summit in New Delhi in September. Another facet of the discourse remains that New Delhi has vehemently opposed the G20 summit to emerge as a forum for focus on war in Ukraine, saying that it's a "geo-economic" platform and that the "(UN) Security Council" exists for conflict resolutions. Putin in the New Delhi G-20 summit would have made him and by extension the war in Ukraine the top focus of a crucial multilateral meeting. Also read | Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India × Secondly, Putin is reportedly willing to visit countries where his security service can completely guarantee his safety, and China is one of those places, according to two people cited by Bloomberg. Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov said in July that Putin planned to visit China for the forum, while Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev said that China had invited the Russian leader as the "main guest" at the event, the state-run TASS news service reported in May. Also read | Vladimir Putin likely to visit China in October to attend BRI Summit In March 2023, The Hague-based International Criminal Court issued a warrant against Vladimir Putin for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Globally, a total of 123 nations are signatories to the Rome Statute of International Criminal Court which makes them bound to act on the orders passed by the court. China and India are not signatories to the Rome Statute. In last week's BRICS summit, Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov instead of Vladimir Putin. Pretoria is a signatory to the Rome Statute, meaning that it was supposed to comply with the order to arrest Putin. Since Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin has only visited neighbouring countries and Iran. Putin last visited China right before the beginning of the war in Ukraine when he attended the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing and held talks with Xi Jinping at which the two sides declared a "no limits" partnership. Xi, however, travelled to Moscow for a state visit in March. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed developing bilateral cooperation in the space sector, the expansion of BRICS membership, and the upcoming G20 Summit that will take place in the capital New Delhi in September, an official statement from India Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday (Aug 28).</p>

<p>During the phone call, the two leaders discussed the results of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg.</p>

<p>“The two leaders reviewed progress on a number of issues of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern, including the recently concluded BRICS Summit in Johannesburg," the statement said.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi thanks Putin for supporting India's presidency&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Putin also told Modi that he would be unable to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi on 9-10 September and that Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.</p>

<p>“While expressing an understanding for Russia’s decision, PM (Modi) thanked President Putin for Russia’s consistent support to all initiatives under India’s G20 Presidency,” it said.</p>

<p>Putin once again congratulated the prime minister on the successful landing of the Indian space mission Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon near its south pole.</p>

<p>“Readiness was reaffirmed to further develop bilateral cooperation in the space sector,” the TASS news agency reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Vladimir Putin skips G20 summit for second consecutive year</strong></h2>

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<h2><strong>Other aspects of Indo-Russia ties discussed&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Other aspects of Russian-Indian relations, like the strategic partnership, were also discussed.</p>

<p>“The positive dynamics of trade and economic cooperation was stated. A mutual disposition was expressed for the consistent implementation of large-scale projects in the energy sector and joint work to expand the international transport and logistics&nbsp;infrastructure.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-not-to-attend-g20-summit-in-india-629120">Russian President Vladimir Putin not to attend G20 summit in India in person</a></p>

<p>On Friday (Aug 25), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Putin has decided to skip the G20 summit due to a special focus on the “special military operation” in Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-school-shaves-heads-of-14-girls-for-wearing-islamic-head-scarves-incorrectly-faces-backlash-629933">Indonesian school shaves heads of 14 girls for improper Islamic head scarves</a></p>

<p>"No, the president has no such plans,” the official Tass news agency quoted the Kremlin spokesman as saying.</p>

<p>He said that the format of the Russian leader's participation would be determined later.</p>

<p>The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan.</p>

<p>During the summits in 2020 (Riyadh) and 2021 (Rome), both held during the COVID-19 pandemic, Putin was present virtually.</p>

<p>He missed the 2022 Bali summit, where he was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.</p>

<p>He had also decided to skip the just-concluded first in-person BRICS summit in&nbsp;Johannesburg as the&nbsp;International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March over war crimes in the war on Ukraine.</p>

<p>South Africa, the BRICS summit host country, is an ICC signatory and was expected to help in Putin's arrest if he was present in the country.&nbsp;</p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed developing bilateral cooperation in the space sector, the expansion of BRICS membership, and the upcoming G20 Summit that will take place in the capital New Delhi in September, an official statement from India Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday (Aug 28).

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed developing bilateral cooperation in the space sector, the expansion of BRICS membership, and the upcoming G20 Summit that will take place in the capital New Delhi in September, an official statement from India Ministry of External Affairs said on Monday (Aug 28). During the phone call, the two leaders discussed the results of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg. “The two leaders reviewed progress on a number of issues of bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual concern, including the recently concluded BRICS Summit in Johannesburg," the statement said. Modi thanks Putin for supporting India's presidency Putin also told Modi that he would be unable to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi on 9-10 September and that Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. “While expressing an understanding for Russia’s decision, PM (Modi) thanked President Putin for Russia’s consistent support to all initiatives under India’s G20 Presidency,” it said. Putin once again congratulated the prime minister on the successful landing of the Indian space mission Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon near its south pole. “Readiness was reaffirmed to further develop bilateral cooperation in the space sector,” the TASS news agency reported. Vladimir Putin skips G20 summit for second consecutive year Other aspects of Indo-Russia ties discussed Other aspects of Russian-Indian relations, like the strategic partnership, were also discussed. “The positive dynamics of trade and economic cooperation was stated. A mutual disposition was expressed for the consistent implementation of large-scale projects in the energy sector and joint work to expand the international transport and logistics infrastructure.” Also read | Russian President Vladimir Putin not to attend G20 summit in India in person On Friday (Aug 25), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that Putin has decided to skip the G20 summit due to a special focus on the “special military operation” in Ukraine. Also read | Indonesian school shaves heads of 14 girls for improper Islamic head scarves "No, the president has no such plans,” the official Tass news agency quoted the Kremlin spokesman as saying. He said that the format of the Russian leader's participation would be determined later. The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan. During the summits in 2020 (Riyadh) and 2021 (Rome), both held during the COVID-19 pandemic, Putin was present virtually. He missed the 2022 Bali summit, where he was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. He had also decided to skip the just-concluded first in-person BRICS summit in Johannesburg as the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March over war crimes in the war on Ukraine. South Africa, the BRICS summit host country, is an ICC signatory and was expected to help in Putin's arrest if he was present in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sergey Lavrov to represent Russia in G20 meet: Vladimir Putin tells PM Modi in phone call

<p>India's ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra scripted history in World Athletics Championships on Sunday, August 27&nbsp;after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/neeraj-chopra-clinches-historic-gold-in-javelin-throw-with-8817m-in-world-athletics-championship-final-629777">winning the gold medal</a> with a distance of 88.17 metres. The reigning Olympic champion is now the World Champion as well.&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a congratulatory message for the athlete.</p>

<p>"The talented @Neeraj_chopra1 exemplifies excellence. His dedication, precision and passion make him not just a champion in athletics but a symbol of unparalleled excellence in the entire sports world. Congrats to him for winning the Gold at the World Athletics Championships," wrote the Indian PM on his official X, formerly Twitter, account. Have a look at the tweet here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The talented <a href="https://twitter.com/Neeraj_chopra1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Neeraj_chopra1</a> exemplifies excellence. His dedication, precision and passion make him not just a champion in athletics but a symbol of unparalleled excellence in the entire sports world. Congrats to him for winning the Gold at the World Athletics Championships. <a href="https://t.co/KsOsGmScER">pic.twitter.com/KsOsGmScER</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1695979426163700082?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking on his win at a late-night press conference from Budapest, Hungary, Chopra said he has many more throws left in him and he will push himself more in the future.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-2023-shreyas-iyer-opens-up-on-injury-layoff-says-hes-thrilled-to-be-back-watch-629737">Asia Cup 2023: Shreyas Iyer opens up on injury layoff, says he’s ‘thrilled to be back’ - WATCH</a></p>

<p>“The biggest thing is I still have many more throws in me and the saying goes that ‘throwers don’t have a finishing line’. So I can push myself, it is motivation to see how many medals one can win. Winning medals does not mean we have done everything. There are so many athletes who have won multiple medals. So I will push myself much more and work harder,” said Chopra.</p>

<p>The athlete was also asked if he thinks he's the greatest athlete now, to which he replied 'he's to improve more for the same.'</p>

<p>“I won’t say I am the greatest of all time. I have to improve more. The greatest of all time is Jan Zelezny when it comes to the javelin,” Chopra said.</p>

<p>The World champ was also thrilled to have fans from around for the medal ceremony, something he missed during the Tokyo Olympics when he won the gold. The COVID-19 restrictions at the time did not allow fans to be there.</p>

<p>“It was a special moment. Crowds were missing in Tokyo. There also Adille sir (Athletics Federation of India president) was there. Today he was there too. There was a big crowd here, Indians too and there were shouts of Jai Hind. So many people came to support and watch athletics and it felt great,” concluded Chopra.</p>

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India's ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra scripted history in World Athletics Championships on Sunday, August 27 after winning the gold medal with a distance of 88.

India's ace javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra scripted history in World Athletics Championships on Sunday, August 27 after winning the gold medal with a distance of 88.17 metres. The reigning Olympic champion is now the World Champion as well. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a congratulatory message for the athlete. "The talented @Neeraj_chopra1 exemplifies excellence. His dedication, precision and passion make him not just a champion in athletics but a symbol of unparalleled excellence in the entire sports world. Congrats to him for winning the Gold at the World Athletics Championships," wrote the Indian PM on his official X, formerly Twitter, account. Have a look at the tweet here: The talented @Neeraj_chopra1 exemplifies excellence. His dedication, precision and passion make him not just a champion in athletics but a symbol of unparalleled excellence in the entire sports world. Congrats to him for winning the Gold at the World Athletics Championships. pic.twitter.com/KsOsGmScER — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 28, 2023 × Speaking on his win at a late-night press conference from Budapest, Hungary, Chopra said he has many more throws left in him and he will push himself more in the future. Also Read: Asia Cup 2023: Shreyas Iyer opens up on injury layoff, says he’s ‘thrilled to be back’ - WATCH “The biggest thing is I still have many more throws in me and the saying goes that ‘throwers don’t have a finishing line’. So I can push myself, it is motivation to see how many medals one can win. Winning medals does not mean we have done everything. There are so many athletes who have won multiple medals. So I will push myself much more and work harder,” said Chopra. The athlete was also asked if he thinks he's the greatest athlete now, to which he replied 'he's to improve more for the same.' “I won’t say I am the greatest of all time. I have to improve more. The greatest of all time is Jan Zelezny when it comes to the javelin,” Chopra said. The World champ was also thrilled to have fans from around for the medal ceremony, something he missed during the Tokyo Olympics when he won the gold. The COVID-19 restrictions at the time did not allow fans to be there. “It was a special moment. Crowds were missing in Tokyo. There also Adille sir (Athletics Federation of India president) was there. Today he was there too. There was a big crowd here, Indians too and there were shouts of Jai Hind. So many people came to support and watch athletics and it felt great,” concluded Chopra. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Athletics Championships: 'Symbol of unparalleled excellence,' says PM Modi on Neeraj Chopra's gold medal

<p>Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is set to embark on a state visit to India next month, coinciding with his participation in the Delhi G20 Summit.</p>

<p>While the summit is scheduled for the 9th and 10th of September, the Saudi crown prince's state visit will take place on September 11th.</p>

<p>The visit holds significant diplomatic importance, as it involves the highest honours extended by the Indian government, including a guard of honor at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of President of India in New Delhi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-attends-saudi-hosted-ukraine-peace-talks-without-russia-622630">India attends Saudi-hosted Ukraine peace talks, without Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>This won't be Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's first visit to India.</p>

<p>His previous state visit was in February 2019 when he was the First Deputy Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>However, this time he comes to India in his capacity as the Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In preparation for his visit, a high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia conducted discussions in Delhi last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian PM speaks with Saudi Prince, thanks him for support during evacuation of Indians from Sudan</strong></p>

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<p>The year 2019 also saw India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the country, his second visit to the Kingdom after 2016.</p>

<p>The 2019 visit of PM Modi resulted in the establishment of the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) between Saudi Arabia and India, a significant milestone. This initiative comprises two parallel tracks: the first focusing on political, security, cultural, and societal aspects, headed by both nations' foreign ministers; the second concentrating on economic and investment matters, led by India's Commerce and Industry Minister and the Saudi Energy Minister.</p>

<p>Saudi Arabia has become a key partner for India, particularly in the West Asian region.</p>

<p>The announcement of Saudi Arabia's inclusion as a member of the BRICS grouping further solidifies its importance on the global stage.</p>

<p>In terms of trade, Saudi Arabia ranks as India's fourth-largest trading partner. Energy security is a critical facet of this engagement, with over 18 per cent&nbsp;of India's crude oil imports originating from Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p>In the fiscal year 2022 (April-December), bilateral trade between the two countries was valued at US$29.28 billion.</p>

<p>India imported goods worth US$22.65 billion from Saudi Arabia and exported goods worth US$6.63 billion during this period.</p>

<p>Another vital aspect of the bilateral relationship is the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia, particularly the large number of blue-collar workers.</p>

<p>The Indian community, comprising approximately 2.2 million individuals, is the largest expatriate group in the kingdom.</p>

<p>Moreover, the annual Hajj pilgrimage plays a crucial role in Indo-Saudi bilateral relations.</p>

<p>During the Crown Prince's earlier visit to New Delhi in February 2019, it was announced that India's Hajj quota would be increased by 24,975 in 2019, allowing 200,000 Indians to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage in August of that year.</p>

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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is set to embark on a state visit to India next month, coinciding with his participation in the Delhi G20 Summit. While the summit is scheduled for the 9th and 10th of September, the Saudi crown prince's state visit will take place on September 11th.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is set to embark on a state visit to India next month, coinciding with his participation in the Delhi G20 Summit. While the summit is scheduled for the 9th and 10th of September, the Saudi crown prince's state visit will take place on September 11th. The visit holds significant diplomatic importance, as it involves the highest honours extended by the Indian government, including a guard of honor at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of President of India in New Delhi. Also read | India attends Saudi-hosted Ukraine peace talks, without Russia This won't be Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's first visit to India. His previous state visit was in February 2019 when he was the First Deputy Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. However, this time he comes to India in his capacity as the Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. In preparation for his visit, a high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia conducted discussions in Delhi last week. Also watch | Indian PM speaks with Saudi Prince, thanks him for support during evacuation of Indians from Sudan × The year 2019 also saw India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the country, his second visit to the Kingdom after 2016. The 2019 visit of PM Modi resulted in the establishment of the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) between Saudi Arabia and India, a significant milestone. This initiative comprises two parallel tracks: the first focusing on political, security, cultural, and societal aspects, headed by both nations' foreign ministers; the second concentrating on economic and investment matters, led by India's Commerce and Industry Minister and the Saudi Energy Minister. Saudi Arabia has become a key partner for India, particularly in the West Asian region. The announcement of Saudi Arabia's inclusion as a member of the BRICS grouping further solidifies its importance on the global stage. In terms of trade, Saudi Arabia ranks as India's fourth-largest trading partner. Energy security is a critical facet of this engagement, with over 18 per cent of India's crude oil imports originating from Saudi Arabia. In the fiscal year 2022 (April-December), bilateral trade between the two countries was valued at US$29.28 billion. India imported goods worth US$22.65 billion from Saudi Arabia and exported goods worth US$6.63 billion during this period. Another vital aspect of the bilateral relationship is the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia, particularly the large number of blue-collar workers. The Indian community, comprising approximately 2.2 million individuals, is the largest expatriate group in the kingdom. Moreover, the annual Hajj pilgrimage plays a crucial role in Indo-Saudi bilateral relations. During the Crown Prince's earlier visit to New Delhi in February 2019, it was announced that India's Hajj quota would be increased by 24,975 in 2019, allowing 200,000 Indians to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage in August of that year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to arrive on state visit soon after G20 Summit in India

<p>India’s successful Chandrayan-3 mission drew widespread applause from across the world as it became the first country to achieve soft-landing in the southern pole of the Moon.</p>

<p>Foreign media extensively covered India’s historic feat as the whole mission was considered to be extremely difficult to execute.</p>

<p>The fact that no other country was able to put its satellite on the dark side of the Moon and that Russia’s Luna-25 mission failed to achieve a similar goal just days before had millions of people on the edge of their seats.</p>

<p>The mission was also much talked about at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, which is being attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>On Thursday (Aug 25), India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar shared a photo on X of PM Modi reading an article on local newspaper along with Brazilian President Lula da Silva about the Chandrayaan-3 mission.</p>

<p>“India's Modi out of this world”, the headline of South Africa's 'The Star' newspaper read.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This morning at the BRICS Summit. <a href="https://t.co/14r0ZmiHCx">pic.twitter.com/14r0ZmiHCx</a></p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1694614079103439354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Wednesday, Chandrayaan-3 touched down on the lunar south pole, making it the first country to land on the uncharted surface.</p>

<p>India also became the fourth country after the US, China, and the erstwhile Soviet Union to land a rover on the Moon.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-breaks-silence-on-prigozhin-says-he-made-some-mistakes-628863">Putin condoles Wagner chief's death, says 'he made some mistakes'</a></p>

<p>The mission is not only important for India, but also for the rest of the world because the purpose of Chandrayaan-3 is to analyse important reserves of frozen water and precious elements.</p>

<h2><strong>Objectives of Pragyan rover </strong></h2>

<p>The Pragyan rover will carry out a series of experiments on the surface of the Moon.</p>

<p>It will check the chemical composition of the lunar surface, and examine the lunar soil and rocks.</p>

<p>It will measure the ions and electrons density and the thermal properties of the lunar surface near the polar region. This will be the first of its kind study as no other country has ever ventured to the Moon's south pole.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-independence-day-ukraine-claims-it-carried-out-special-operation-in-russia-occupied-crimea-628778">Ukraine claims it carried out ‘special operation’ in Russian-occupied Crimea</a></p>

<p>The rover will stay on the lunar surface for one&nbsp;Lunar day or 14 Earth days.</p>

<p>Though Vikram and Pragyan have a planned mission life of one&nbsp;lunar day, there is a possibility that the duo could live longer.</p>

<p>ISRO has designed its lander and rover to harness solar power and charge its onboard batteries, but that would be possible only during the lunar day.</p>

<p>After lunar day, comes lunar night for 14 days when temperatures drop severely and go well below -150ºC. If the lander and rover survive the lunar night (14.75 Earth days), it might be possible for them to get revived when the lunar day breaks and solar power is available.</p>

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India’s successful Chandrayan-3 mission drew widespread applause from across the world as it became the first country to achieve soft-landing in the southern pole of the Moon.

India’s successful Chandrayan-3 mission drew widespread applause from across the world as it became the first country to achieve soft-landing in the southern pole of the Moon. Foreign media extensively covered India’s historic feat as the whole mission was considered to be extremely difficult to execute. The fact that no other country was able to put its satellite on the dark side of the Moon and that Russia’s Luna-25 mission failed to achieve a similar goal just days before had millions of people on the edge of their seats. The mission was also much talked about at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, which is being attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Thursday (Aug 25), India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar shared a photo on X of PM Modi reading an article on local newspaper along with Brazilian President Lula da Silva about the Chandrayaan-3 mission. “India's Modi out of this world”, the headline of South Africa's 'The Star' newspaper read. This morning at the BRICS Summit. pic.twitter.com/14r0ZmiHCx — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 24, 2023 × On Wednesday, Chandrayaan-3 touched down on the lunar south pole, making it the first country to land on the uncharted surface. India also became the fourth country after the US, China, and the erstwhile Soviet Union to land a rover on the Moon. Also read | Putin condoles Wagner chief's death, says 'he made some mistakes' The mission is not only important for India, but also for the rest of the world because the purpose of Chandrayaan-3 is to analyse important reserves of frozen water and precious elements. Objectives of Pragyan rover The Pragyan rover will carry out a series of experiments on the surface of the Moon. It will check the chemical composition of the lunar surface, and examine the lunar soil and rocks. It will measure the ions and electrons density and the thermal properties of the lunar surface near the polar region. This will be the first of its kind study as no other country has ever ventured to the Moon's south pole. Also read | Ukraine claims it carried out ‘special operation’ in Russian-occupied Crimea The rover will stay on the lunar surface for one Lunar day or 14 Earth days. Though Vikram and Pragyan have a planned mission life of one lunar day, there is a possibility that the duo could live longer. ISRO has designed its lander and rover to harness solar power and charge its onboard batteries, but that would be possible only during the lunar day. After lunar day, comes lunar night for 14 days when temperatures drop severely and go well below -150ºC. If the lander and rover survive the lunar night (14.75 Earth days), it might be possible for them to get revived when the lunar day breaks and solar power is available. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘India's Modi out of this world’: PM, Brazil’s Lula read South African paper on Chandrayaan-3

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">India is working on a new electric vehicle policy that would slash import taxes for automakers that commit to some local manufacturing, following a proposal by Tesla&nbsp;which is considering entering the domestic market, people with direct knowledge said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">The policy being considered could allow automakers to import fully-built EVs into India at a reduced tax as low as 15 per cent, compared to the current 100 per cent that applies to cars which cost above $40,000 and 70 per cent for the rest, said two of the sources, including a senior Indian government official.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">Tesla's best-selling Model Y, for example, starts at $47,740 in the U.S. before tax credits.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">"There is an understanding with Tesla's proposal and government is showing interest," said the official, who is familiar with the issue.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">India's commerce and finance ministries, and Tesla, did not respond to requests for comment.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-5">If such a policy is adopted, it could amount to a drastic reduction in the cost of imported EVs that local carmakers have been keen to avoid. It could also open the door for global automakers, beyond Tesla, to tap the world's third-largest car market where sales of EVs are less than 2 per cent of total car sales, but growing rapidly.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6">The lower import taxes could help Tesla sell its full range of models in India, and not just the new car it wants to make locally, said a third source.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-7">Shares of Tata Motors, India's largest electric car manufacturer, fell nearly 3 per cent on the Reuters report, while rival Mahindra and Mahindra&nbsp;dropped over 2 per cent, dragging the benchmark auto index to an intra-day low with losses of 1.1 per&nbsp;cent.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-8">New Delhi is going to move slowly in considering the policy proposal as any lowering of taxes on imported EVs could disrupt the market and upset local players like Tata and Mahindra that are investing to build electric cars at home, the Indian official said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-9">"This is going to go through a lot of deliberations even though government is keen on getting Tesla. That's because of the impact on domestic players," said the official.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-10">The policy is still in the initial stages of deliberation and the final tax rate could change, the sources said.</p>

<h2 data-testid="Heading">Tesla's new EV</h2>

<p data-testid="paragraph-11">Other countries have taken similar measures to spur EV manufacturing commitments.&nbsp; Indonesia, for example, has offered to reduce import duties from 50% to zero for EV makers planning investments, a move seen aimed at attracting Chinese players and Tesla.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-12">Tesla first tried to enter India in 2021 by pushing officials to lower the 100 per cent&nbsp;import tax for EVs. Last year, the talks between Tesla and the Indian government collapsed when officials conveyed the company would have to first commit to local manufacturing.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-13">More recently, Tesla has told Indian officials it is keen to set up a local factory and make a&nbsp;new EV&nbsp;priced around $24,000, roughly 25% cheaper than its current entry model, for both the Indian market and export.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-14">Tesla's senior public policy and business development executive Rohan Patel has in recent weeks&nbsp;met top officials&nbsp;privately. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who held&nbsp;talks with CEO Elon Musk&nbsp;in June, has been tracking progress closely, Reuters has reported.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-15">Indian officials conveyed there will be no special incentives for Tesla's market entry, and the proposal for a low import tax, conditional on a manufacturing commitment, was touted by Tesla to keep both sides happy, the sources said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-16">One of the sources said Tesla told Indian officials a potential India factory could operate at full capacity by 2030.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-17">Outside the United States, Tesla currently has a plant in Shanghai — its largest factory worldwide — and one outside Berlin. It is building a new plant in Mexico that will focus on a new mass-market EV platform Musk has said will slash costs for consumers.</p>

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India is working on a new electric vehicle policy that would slash import taxes for automakers that commit to some local manufacturing, following a proposal by Tesla which is considering entering the domestic market, people with direct knowledge said.

India is working on a new electric vehicle policy that would slash import taxes for automakers that commit to some local manufacturing, following a proposal by Tesla which is considering entering the domestic market, people with direct knowledge said. The policy being considered could allow automakers to import fully-built EVs into India at a reduced tax as low as 15 per cent, compared to the current 100 per cent that applies to cars which cost above $40,000 and 70 per cent for the rest, said two of the sources, including a senior Indian government official. Tesla's best-selling Model Y, for example, starts at $47,740 in the U.S. before tax credits. "There is an understanding with Tesla's proposal and government is showing interest," said the official, who is familiar with the issue. India's commerce and finance ministries, and Tesla, did not respond to requests for comment. If such a policy is adopted, it could amount to a drastic reduction in the cost of imported EVs that local carmakers have been keen to avoid. It could also open the door for global automakers, beyond Tesla, to tap the world's third-largest car market where sales of EVs are less than 2 per cent of total car sales, but growing rapidly. The lower import taxes could help Tesla sell its full range of models in India, and not just the new car it wants to make locally, said a third source. Shares of Tata Motors, India's largest electric car manufacturer, fell nearly 3 per cent on the Reuters report, while rival Mahindra and Mahindra dropped over 2 per cent, dragging the benchmark auto index to an intra-day low with losses of 1.1 per cent. New Delhi is going to move slowly in considering the policy proposal as any lowering of taxes on imported EVs could disrupt the market and upset local players like Tata and Mahindra that are investing to build electric cars at home, the Indian official said. "This is going to go through a lot of deliberations even though government is keen on getting Tesla. That's because of the impact on domestic players," said the official. The policy is still in the initial stages of deliberation and the final tax rate could change, the sources said. Tesla's new EV Other countries have taken similar measures to spur EV manufacturing commitments. Indonesia, for example, has offered to reduce import duties from 50% to zero for EV makers planning investments, a move seen aimed at attracting Chinese players and Tesla. Tesla first tried to enter India in 2021 by pushing officials to lower the 100 per cent import tax for EVs. Last year, the talks between Tesla and the Indian government collapsed when officials conveyed the company would have to first commit to local manufacturing. More recently, Tesla has told Indian officials it is keen to set up a local factory and make a new EV priced around $24,000, roughly 25% cheaper than its current entry model, for both the Indian market and export. Tesla's senior public policy and business development executive Rohan Patel has in recent weeks met top officials privately. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who held talks with CEO Elon Musk in June, has been tracking progress closely, Reuters has reported. Indian officials conveyed there will be no special incentives for Tesla's market entry, and the proposal for a low import tax, conditional on a manufacturing commitment, was touted by Tesla to keep both sides happy, the sources said. One of the sources said Tesla told Indian officials a potential India factory could operate at full capacity by 2030. Outside the United States, Tesla currently has a plant in Shanghai — its largest factory worldwide — and one outside Berlin. It is building a new plant in Mexico that will focus on a new mass-market EV platform Musk has said will slash costs for consumers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

With Tesla push, India mulls import tax cut if EV makers build locally

<p>The Indian government has dismissed China's claim that the request for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping came from New Delhi. Speaking to WION, sources said on Friday (August 25) there was a pending request from China for a bilateral meeting, adding, that Modi and Xi had an informal conversation at the leaders lounge on the sidelines of the BRICS summit.</p>

<p>Relations between India and China have been sour for over three years after soldiers&nbsp;from both sides clashed in the Himalayan frontier in June 2020,&nbsp;resulting in 24 deaths.</p>

<p>The dismissal from the Indian side came after Modi and Xi had a similar interaction during the G20 summit in Indonesia's Bali in November last year. According to an official statement, the two leaders had reached an important consensus to stabilise relations between the two countries. Here too, China said the meeting was requested by India but New Delhi denied the claim.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi highlights concerns with Xi on border issue</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said that Prime Minister Modi highlighted concerns with Chinese President Xi on border issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).&nbsp;Modi&nbsp;and Xi agreed "to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation,"&nbsp;Foreign Secretary Kwatra said.</p>

<p>Modi "underlined that the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas, and observing and respecting the LAC are essential for the normalisation of the India-China relationship".</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a report by the Xinhua news agency said Xi told Modi that improving relations China-India relations served the interests of both countries and was conducive to peace, stability and development.</p>

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The Indian government has dismissed China's claim that the request for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping came from New Delhi.

The Indian government has dismissed China's claim that the request for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping came from New Delhi. Speaking to WION, sources said on Friday (August 25) there was a pending request from China for a bilateral meeting, adding, that Modi and Xi had an informal conversation at the leaders lounge on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. Relations between India and China have been sour for over three years after soldiers from both sides clashed in the Himalayan frontier in June 2020, resulting in 24 deaths. The dismissal from the Indian side came after Modi and Xi had a similar interaction during the G20 summit in Indonesia's Bali in November last year. According to an official statement, the two leaders had reached an important consensus to stabilise relations between the two countries. Here too, China said the meeting was requested by India but New Delhi denied the claim. Modi highlights concerns with Xi on border issue Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said that Prime Minister Modi highlighted concerns with Chinese President Xi on border issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Modi and Xi agreed "to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation," Foreign Secretary Kwatra said. Modi "underlined that the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas, and observing and respecting the LAC are essential for the normalisation of the India-China relationship". Meanwhile, a report by the Xinhua news agency said Xi told Modi that improving relations China-India relations served the interests of both countries and was conducive to peace, stability and development. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BRICS summit: India dismisses China's claim that New Delhi made a request for Modi-Xi meet

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-officials-expands-as-ramaphosa-announces-six-new-members-628689">new members of BRICS</a> as he addressed a media briefing along with other leaders on Thursday (August 24) during the summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that Argentina, Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and UAE will become full members of BRICS and their&nbsp;membership will come into force from January 1, 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of BRICS, we have taken the decision to expand this forum. India has always fully supported this expansion. Such an expansion will make BRICS stronger and more effective."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In that spirit, India welcomes Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE into the BRICS family," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-pm-modis-attendance-underscores-aseans-indo-pacific-importance-says-indonesian-ambassador-628738">PM Modi's attendance underscores ASEAN's Indo-Pacific importance, says Indonesian ambassador</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Modi said that the modernisation and expansion of the grouping is a message that all global institutions need to transform considering the changing times.&nbsp;He said that the decision to expand the grouping will also further strengthen the belief of many countries in a multipolar world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said:&nbsp;"I am happy that our teams have agreed on guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedures for the expansion of BRICS.&nbsp;I am happy that many positive outcomes came out of three days of deliberations."&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi&nbsp;said he was confident that "we would be able to give new dynamism to BRICS by working with new member countries of the grouping" as referred to countries being admitted as new BRICS members.</p>

<p>He noted that India has had very deep and historic relations with all of them.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | “I believe that BRICS and all the nations present here can help strengthen the multi-polar world,” says PM Modi while addressing a session during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRICSSummit2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRICSSummit2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/w8XK6cPCvJ">pic.twitter.com/w8XK6cPCvJ</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1694642430442651949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-african-government-refutes-allegations-of-pm-modi-snub-amid-brics-summit-628477">South African govt refutes media report of snub to PM Narendra Modi amid BRICS summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's bilateral with Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed Ali</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with the Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed Ali on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit as both leaders had a brief conversation with each other. The meeting was held in the presence of envoys from both countries. The Indian PM said on X: "We discussed ways to boost ties in sectors like trade, defence and people to people relations."&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also held talks with Senegal President Macky Sall. "India considers Senegal to be a valued developmental partner. We discussed sectors like energy, infrastructure, defence and more in our meeting," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all the new members of BRICS as he addressed a media briefing along with other leaders on Thursday (August 24) during the summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated all the new members of BRICS as he addressed a media briefing along with other leaders on Thursday (August 24) during the summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that Argentina, Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and UAE will become full members of BRICS and their membership will come into force from January 1, 2024. In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of BRICS, we have taken the decision to expand this forum. India has always fully supported this expansion. Such an expansion will make BRICS stronger and more effective." "In that spirit, India welcomes Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE into the BRICS family," he added. Also read: PM Modi's attendance underscores ASEAN's Indo-Pacific importance, says Indonesian ambassador Modi said that the modernisation and expansion of the grouping is a message that all global institutions need to transform considering the changing times. He said that the decision to expand the grouping will also further strengthen the belief of many countries in a multipolar world. He said: "I am happy that our teams have agreed on guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedures for the expansion of BRICS. I am happy that many positive outcomes came out of three days of deliberations." PM Modi said he was confident that "we would be able to give new dynamism to BRICS by working with new member countries of the grouping" as referred to countries being admitted as new BRICS members. He noted that India has had very deep and historic relations with all of them. VIDEO | “I believe that BRICS and all the nations present here can help strengthen the multi-polar world,” says PM Modi while addressing a session during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.#BRICSSummit2023 pic.twitter.com/w8XK6cPCvJ — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 24, 2023 × Also read: South African govt refutes media report of snub to PM Narendra Modi amid BRICS summit PM Modi's bilateral with Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed Ali PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with the Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed Ali on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit as both leaders had a brief conversation with each other. The meeting was held in the presence of envoys from both countries. The Indian PM said on X: "We discussed ways to boost ties in sectors like trade, defence and people to people relations." PM Modi also held talks with Senegal President Macky Sall. "India considers Senegal to be a valued developmental partner. We discussed sectors like energy, infrastructure, defence and more in our meeting," PM Modi said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi says BRICS expansion is message to all global institutions

<p>With the eagerly anticipated ASEAN summit just around the corner, all eyes are on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's impending attendance from September 6 to 7 in Jakarta.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indonesian Ambassador to India&nbsp;Ina Krisnamurthi&nbsp;exuded optimism as she articulated the significance of India's participation in the summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, she emphatically stated, "The attendance hopefully by the Prime Minister will show how India sees ASEAN as an important player in the Indo-Pacific region."</p>

<p>Ambassador Krisnamurthi went on to underline the profound implications of this engagement, underscoring India's deep-rooted commitment to the ASEAN nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She elaborated, "The plan of action between ASEAN and India five years from now is also very significant to both to implement the declaration of the comprehensive strategic plan."</p>

<p>On his country hosting the ASEAN summit meetings, she pointed out that the focus will be on issues like food and energy security, climate change, disaster issues, digitalization</p>

<p>Turning her attention to India's forthcoming G20 presidency, Ambassador Krisnamurthi did not mince words in lauding India's astute leadership and innovative approach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She said, "Well, I have to say this and then I said it many times that your presidency needs some praise because it's done in more than 60 cities. So your leadership needs praise and on top of it, you introduce some issues that maybe some G20 members are not used to discussing, like for example, the start-up."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here's the whole interview.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> Your country is going to host the ASEAN summit meetings, which will see a number of world leaders attending not only from the grouping, but outside the grouping as well. In fact, Indian prime minister is also expected to travel to Jakarta. So what kind of preparations your country is doing to welcome or roll out the red carpet for the world leaders.<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> First, thank you so much for having me, again, once again. On ASEAN chairmanship, Indonesia focus on two main issues, one is of course logistics. When you have more than 10-15 leaders coming to the country which logistically we need to be prepared in the detailed arrangement of it. The meeting started with Senior Official Level and then continued with the foreign ministers meeting as preparation for the summit from fifth to seventh of September. Of course, a number of issues under the big theme of ASEAN matters, focus is on growth. Substantively also, we as the chair, we prepare the issues in a very thoughtful manner. If you notice, the issue is a continuation of our presidency of the G20 last year on health, on food and energy security, on climate change. So many issues that we have carried on during our presidency of G20, It's carried over once again in ASEAN since the beginning of our chairmanship in January. For growth, we are focusing on what the core issue that we are experiencing globally, not only regionally not only nationally but globally. It is the food and energy security, the climate change, the disaster issues, digitalization and whatnot. So I think the ASEAN chairmanship of Indonesia and G20 chairmanship of India is in line in thoughts and in views. It is important to make discussion on common concerns, Global common concern to be led by emerging economies or developing countries such as India and Indonesia. So, it is important that we have seen the convergence of issues between the two, between G 20 And ASEAN.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> And how do you see India ASEAN relationship going forward with Indonesia as the host. The Indian prime minister is expected to travel, and last year we saw Indian vice president traveling where there was an elevation in the relationship...<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> But last year, we elevate, you mentioned about the elevation to comprehensive strategic partnership, but this year is very important for both sides to put down, to concretize ties, the implementation of such partnership. It's the elevation as a document as the leaders declaration needs to be implemented in real terms. So the attendance hopefully by the Prime Minister will show how India sees ASEAN as an important player in the Indo Pacific region, and therefore the plan of action between ASEAN and India five years on from now it's also very significant to both to implement the declaration of the comprehensive strategic plan</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> The White House has announced that President Biden will not be attending ASEAN meetings and it will be the Vice President to have who will be attending the meeting. So do you see a disappointment or is it part and parcel of hosting summits because at the end of the day, India also last year was also present at the level of vice president and also hosting a summit is a difficult task. We of course are hosting the G 20. Logistically, it is something that requires a lot of planning. So when it comes to Jakarta, there are concerns about pollution. Do you think that is a worrisome factor?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> I think Indonesia manage many of the summits pretty well in the past, so hopefully this one, hopefully will also be successful and smooth. But your concern has a merit. Therefore, we already implement steps. For example, this week, the government of Jakarta started 50% working from home for the staff of the government of Jakarta. And second we also like what we have done in G20, Bali. We also tried very best, learning from India using the electric vehicles for example, to just reduce the pollution. If you mentioned about the non attendance of some leaders, we do understand that next year or even this year, the global dynamics are a challenge. There are challenges not only in the US but also in some other parts of the world. So, for us, Indonesia, the most important thing that our discussion, deliberations need to be inclusive, means in the inclusivity is that all attendance, all parties attend the meeting. So if the vice president of the US coming, thank God because then US will be represented at the highest level. So for us inclusivity in the any time of diplomatic engagement is very important, rather than when we say ASEAN 10, ASEAN 11 but you know, many not attended that we are at a loss.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> Now coming to India, but India is going to host the G 20 Summit. What's your expectation? You're part of the Troika any suggestion to the Indian presidency because it's a very difficult process, not only logistically but also in terms of putting the joint statement.<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> Well, I have to say this and then I said in many times that your presidency needs some praise, because it's, it's done in more than 60 cities. So your leadership needs a praise and on top of it, you introduce some issues that maybe some G 20 members are not used to discuss, like for example, the start up, it's a very relevant current issue to be discussed. But in the past, no one talks about the start up. And also women led development, there is none in the agenda. So, this is what I said in many occasions. And now I said it again. What India has done in G20 is to introduce new issues, but actually it's not new because we already all experience it from the grassroot. So, I think India has done tremendously and we wish India all the best in the summit, with all countries represented at the highest level. And hopefully the deliberation and discussion will be fruitful</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> And hopefully we will see your president, he has a packed schedule that week. India has been saying that when it comes to his presidency, the focus will be the voice for the Global South. And also India has proposed the inclusion of African Union as a permanent member of the grouping. What do you have to say about this?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> So, Indonesia, commends the efforts of India to invite Africa because like last year, Indonesia also invited Pacific as we see they are in the neighborhood and they are underrepresented, but at the same time, they're facing the same challenges like us. What India has done with inviting Africa is to show that what happened in Africa is actually also happening to us in a different level, kind of thing. So, we commend India for that effort. Secondly, we need to understand that the 20 is informal gathering. There is no set of rules of who to be invited, who are there, who should be sitting as observer as invited or whatever. However, when you when you give the concept of expansion, you need to also bear in mind to what extent the expansion is, as such Indonesia sees the criteria, modalities of expansion needs to be discussed and be agreed upon by all.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> Hosting a summit also focuses on a joint statement. Indonesia had to struggle through it since the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict. Are you hopeful this time around?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> So last year when we were president of G20. We did not have joint communique through out the year, But we are happy that at last at the leaders summit, statement is there, the agreement is there. We see the effort of India bridging all differences and we also support the idea that India always pushed forward saying that we need to focus on the common concerns rather than focusing on one single issues that only happen or impacted to only some countries not global. Conflicts and tensions are very important to be dealt with by peaceful means, by dialogue, but it should not jeopardize or hampering the effort to find a conclusion on common concerns. Many common concerns like post pandemic, economic reform recovery, disaster management, climate change many common concerns that needs to be a prioritized by G20, in the discussion not only one issues, which impact few countries.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> Now talking about another grouping, that's the BRICS grouping. Now, the big summit is happening today. Your president has been invited by host South Africa. How do you see BRICS as a grouping and there is a talk of expansion there as well. Would Indonesia be keen to be part of this grouping? Has Indonesia spoken about it with BRICS member countries including India?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> Well, My President is there for this summit as the invitees as the Friends of BRICS as they say, it shows the interest is there. But again, on the principle of expansion, we maintain that position that criteria, modalities needs to be discussed and be agreed upon. And secondly, we see BRICS as an important in engagement.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> And you're hopeful that when it comes to expansion, there can be some positive news?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> Some positive news on the modalities and criteria. Yes.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> Ma'am. Now coming to India bit, Indonesia relationship, but before I can ask that question, I would like to ask about a very important development today. That's the Chandrayaan 3. The entire country is very happy about it. What's your view? What's your take?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> All the best because we are so looking forward, we work with ISRO, because they have the satellite on grounding in Indonesia as well. So we hope for the best for India to make to the moon, so it's very proud moments for everyone to see the progress to understand the efforts that you know. Hopefully, inshallah. We're happy for India. So wishing India the best all the best. All the best.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> Now, coming to the relationship bit, how do you see the trajectory of this relationship? Now, the Indian Prime Minister travels to Indonesia second time in less than one year now. So essentially, focus has been on connectivity. I believe a direct flight has also started if you can shed some light on this relationship.<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> The connectivity literally has take off, hopefully in the near future from Delhi. We already have Chennai, Mumbai, and hopefully in Delhi. I hope that our relations are also taking off because next year, we will celebrate 75 years of anniversary of the bilateral relations. And we see that the visit of Prime Minister Modi in the near future hopefully for ASEAN India relationship, also a sign of hope that India and Indonesia relationship also taking off. Most importantly, for the connectivity bit. I think what we need to do is to make sure that the traffic is there, the people to people contact needs to be enhanced and strengthened not only through tourism, the embassy, myself and my team focused on health sector, education sector, business, for sure. So the connectivity itself, establishing direct flight is easy may be, but most importantly, to make sure there are traffics for this connectivity to be successful.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> I believe there was a conversation between connectivity between Ache and Andaman connectivity.<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> Up until now, feasibility studies done. We need to see, in the feasibility study, it needs to have another project proposal by 2024 and then the project hopefully will be done in since 2025. But so the feasibility study is done already and I thank you the government of India for making it happen for the study to finish and complete. So we do hope that next year something will happen for the project</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> What kind of cooperation are you looking at in terms of defense area as well. They're having murmurs and rumors, as you all know about Brahmos as well, but talking about this component of the relationship. Where do you see it going forward?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> In the defence sector, I think we are in the very good relations, not so much of buying or trading part but the Defense Dialogue is their, visit of ships are there. For the first time in so many years we had a warship coming to Andaman Nicobar for training between them, so now we are in a good position. But for the trading part, maybe we need to discuss more with India on how to make it happen.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> India recently banned the export of rice as well. Has this impacted your country and have you raised the matter with the Indian side?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> Diplomatically we have raised, not so much of the ban because in the past also Indonesia did the same thing and then the impact is very negative, not only for those who import the products, but also for maintaining the stability of price in the world. The world price. So our hope is that Indian Government will consider to review this policy. So that the fluctuation, the stability of world price for commodities, any commodities will happen, because currently, as you may see, because the climate change, the rains, the heats everywhere in the world, the wildfire we need to ensure that the commodity price is secure, and a challenge in fluctuation, we'll need some solutions and that is why we do humbly request the government of India to review this policy.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> My final question and no conversation can be complete when it comes to Indonesia is the cultural similarities between the two sides. Last year I was in Bali and it was very pleasantly surprising to see the place had so many rituals, which was similar here in India. So what kind of cultural connect or shared cultural heritage both countries have and plan to progress on it?<br />
<strong>Ina Krisnamurthi:</strong> We need to focus on religion, the culture and social and history. And I think what we need to understand is the historical background between the two nations because sometimes we forgot about the importance of the past to what ever happens in the present and the future. So the every you ask plans, many plans because like I said, we at the embassy, my team and I focus on cooperation between universities, cooperation between think tanks, just to find out what sort of past experience between two nations that we can go beyond the past to the future.</p>

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With the eagerly anticipated ASEAN summit just around the corner, all eyes are on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's impending attendance from September 6 to 7 in Jakarta.

With the eagerly anticipated ASEAN summit just around the corner, all eyes are on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's impending attendance from September 6 to 7 in Jakarta. Indonesian Ambassador to India Ina Krisnamurthi exuded optimism as she articulated the significance of India's participation in the summit. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, she emphatically stated, "The attendance hopefully by the Prime Minister will show how India sees ASEAN as an important player in the Indo-Pacific region." Ambassador Krisnamurthi went on to underline the profound implications of this engagement, underscoring India's deep-rooted commitment to the ASEAN nations. She elaborated, "The plan of action between ASEAN and India five years from now is also very significant to both to implement the declaration of the comprehensive strategic plan." On his country hosting the ASEAN summit meetings, she pointed out that the focus will be on issues like food and energy security, climate change, disaster issues, digitalization Turning her attention to India's forthcoming G20 presidency, Ambassador Krisnamurthi did not mince words in lauding India's astute leadership and innovative approach. She said, "Well, I have to say this and then I said it many times that your presidency needs some praise because it's done in more than 60 cities. So your leadership needs praise and on top of it, you introduce some issues that maybe some G20 members are not used to discussing, like for example, the start-up." Here's the whole interview. WION: Your country is going to host the ASEAN summit meetings, which will see a number of world leaders attending not only from the grouping, but outside the grouping as well. In fact, Indian prime minister is also expected to travel to Jakarta. So what kind of preparations your country is doing to welcome or roll out the red carpet for the world leaders. Ina Krisnamurthi: First, thank you so much for having me, again, once again. On ASEAN chairmanship, Indonesia focus on two main issues, one is of course logistics. When you have more than 10-15 leaders coming to the country which logistically we need to be prepared in the detailed arrangement of it. The meeting started with Senior Official Level and then continued with the foreign ministers meeting as preparation for the summit from fifth to seventh of September. Of course, a number of issues under the big theme of ASEAN matters, focus is on growth. Substantively also, we as the chair, we prepare the issues in a very thoughtful manner. If you notice, the issue is a continuation of our presidency of the G20 last year on health, on food and energy security, on climate change. So many issues that we have carried on during our presidency of G20, It's carried over once again in ASEAN since the beginning of our chairmanship in January. For growth, we are focusing on what the core issue that we are experiencing globally, not only regionally not only nationally but globally. It is the food and energy security, the climate change, the disaster issues, digitalization and whatnot. So I think the ASEAN chairmanship of Indonesia and G20 chairmanship of India is in line in thoughts and in views. It is important to make discussion on common concerns, Global common concern to be led by emerging economies or developing countries such as India and Indonesia. So, it is important that we have seen the convergence of issues between the two, between G 20 And ASEAN. WION: And how do you see India ASEAN relationship going forward with Indonesia as the host. The Indian prime minister is expected to travel, and last year we saw Indian vice president traveling where there was an elevation in the relationship... Ina Krisnamurthi: But last year, we elevate, you mentioned about the elevation to comprehensive strategic partnership, but this year is very important for both sides to put down, to concretize ties, the implementation of such partnership. It's the elevation as a document as the leaders declaration needs to be implemented in real terms. So the attendance hopefully by the Prime Minister will show how India sees ASEAN as an important player in the Indo Pacific region, and therefore the plan of action between ASEAN and India five years on from now it's also very significant to both to implement the declaration of the comprehensive strategic plan WION: The White House has announced that President Biden will not be attending ASEAN meetings and it will be the Vice President to have who will be attending the meeting. So do you see a disappointment or is it part and parcel of hosting summits because at the end of the day, India also last year was also present at the level of vice president and also hosting a summit is a difficult task. We of course are hosting the G 20. Logistically, it is something that requires a lot of planning. So when it comes to Jakarta, there are concerns about pollution. Do you think that is a worrisome factor? Ina Krisnamurthi: I think Indonesia manage many of the summits pretty well in the past, so hopefully this one, hopefully will also be successful and smooth. But your concern has a merit. Therefore, we already implement steps. For example, this week, the government of Jakarta started 50% working from home for the staff of the government of Jakarta. And second we also like what we have done in G20, Bali. We also tried very best, learning from India using the electric vehicles for example, to just reduce the pollution. If you mentioned about the non attendance of some leaders, we do understand that next year or even this year, the global dynamics are a challenge. There are challenges not only in the US but also in some other parts of the world. So, for us, Indonesia, the most important thing that our discussion, deliberations need to be inclusive, means in the inclusivity is that all attendance, all parties attend the meeting. So if the vice president of the US coming, thank God because then US will be represented at the highest level. So for us inclusivity in the any time of diplomatic engagement is very important, rather than when we say ASEAN 10, ASEAN 11 but you know, many not attended that we are at a loss. WION: Now coming to India, but India is going to host the G 20 Summit. What's your expectation? You're part of the Troika any suggestion to the Indian presidency because it's a very difficult process, not only logistically but also in terms of putting the joint statement. Ina Krisnamurthi: Well, I have to say this and then I said in many times that your presidency needs some praise, because it's, it's done in more than 60 cities. So your leadership needs a praise and on top of it, you introduce some issues that maybe some G 20 members are not used to discuss, like for example, the start up, it's a very relevant current issue to be discussed. But in the past, no one talks about the start up. And also women led development, there is none in the agenda. So, this is what I said in many occasions. And now I said it again. What India has done in G20 is to introduce new issues, but actually it's not new because we already all experience it from the grassroot. So, I think India has done tremendously and we wish India all the best in the summit, with all countries represented at the highest level. And hopefully the deliberation and discussion will be fruitful WION: And hopefully we will see your president, he has a packed schedule that week. India has been saying that when it comes to his presidency, the focus will be the voice for the Global South. And also India has proposed the inclusion of African Union as a permanent member of the grouping. What do you have to say about this? Ina Krisnamurthi: So, Indonesia, commends the efforts of India to invite Africa because like last year, Indonesia also invited Pacific as we see they are in the neighborhood and they are underrepresented, but at the same time, they're facing the same challenges like us. What India has done with inviting Africa is to show that what happened in Africa is actually also happening to us in a different level, kind of thing. So, we commend India for that effort. Secondly, we need to understand that the 20 is informal gathering. There is no set of rules of who to be invited, who are there, who should be sitting as observer as invited or whatever. However, when you when you give the concept of expansion, you need to also bear in mind to what extent the expansion is, as such Indonesia sees the criteria, modalities of expansion needs to be discussed and be agreed upon by all. WION: Hosting a summit also focuses on a joint statement. Indonesia had to struggle through it since the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict. Are you hopeful this time around? Ina Krisnamurthi: So last year when we were president of G20. We did not have joint communique through out the year, But we are happy that at last at the leaders summit, statement is there, the agreement is there. We see the effort of India bridging all differences and we also support the idea that India always pushed forward saying that we need to focus on the common concerns rather than focusing on one single issues that only happen or impacted to only some countries not global. Conflicts and tensions are very important to be dealt with by peaceful means, by dialogue, but it should not jeopardize or hampering the effort to find a conclusion on common concerns. Many common concerns like post pandemic, economic reform recovery, disaster management, climate change many common concerns that needs to be a prioritized by G20, in the discussion not only one issues, which impact few countries. WION: Now talking about another grouping, that's the BRICS grouping. Now, the big summit is happening today. Your president has been invited by host South Africa. How do you see BRICS as a grouping and there is a talk of expansion there as well. Would Indonesia be keen to be part of this grouping? Has Indonesia spoken about it with BRICS member countries including India? Ina Krisnamurthi: Well, My President is there for this summit as the invitees as the Friends of BRICS as they say, it shows the interest is there. But again, on the principle of expansion, we maintain that position that criteria, modalities needs to be discussed and be agreed upon. And secondly, we see BRICS as an important in engagement. WION: And you're hopeful that when it comes to expansion, there can be some positive news? Ina Krisnamurthi: Some positive news on the modalities and criteria. Yes. WION: Ma'am. Now coming to India bit, Indonesia relationship, but before I can ask that question, I would like to ask about a very important development today. That's the Chandrayaan 3. The entire country is very happy about it. What's your view? What's your take? Ina Krisnamurthi: All the best because we are so looking forward, we work with ISRO, because they have the satellite on grounding in Indonesia as well. So we hope for the best for India to make to the moon, so it's very proud moments for everyone to see the progress to understand the efforts that you know. Hopefully, inshallah. We're happy for India. So wishing India the best all the best. All the best. WION: Now, coming to the relationship bit, how do you see the trajectory of this relationship? Now, the Indian Prime Minister travels to Indonesia second time in less than one year now. So essentially, focus has been on connectivity. I believe a direct flight has also started if you can shed some light on this relationship. Ina Krisnamurthi: The connectivity literally has take off, hopefully in the near future from Delhi. We already have Chennai, Mumbai, and hopefully in Delhi. I hope that our relations are also taking off because next year, we will celebrate 75 years of anniversary of the bilateral relations. And we see that the visit of Prime Minister Modi in the near future hopefully for ASEAN India relationship, also a sign of hope that India and Indonesia relationship also taking off. Most importantly, for the connectivity bit. I think what we need to do is to make sure that the traffic is there, the people to people contact needs to be enhanced and strengthened not only through tourism, the embassy, myself and my team focused on health sector, education sector, business, for sure. So the connectivity itself, establishing direct flight is easy may be, but most importantly, to make sure there are traffics for this connectivity to be successful. WION: I believe there was a conversation between connectivity between Ache and Andaman connectivity. Ina Krisnamurthi: Up until now, feasibility studies done. We need to see, in the feasibility study, it needs to have another project proposal by 2024 and then the project hopefully will be done in since 2025. But so the feasibility study is done already and I thank you the government of India for making it happen for the study to finish and complete. So we do hope that next year something will happen for the project WION: What kind of cooperation are you looking at in terms of defense area as well. They're having murmurs and rumors, as you all know about Brahmos as well, but talking about this component of the relationship. Where do you see it going forward? Ina Krisnamurthi: In the defence sector, I think we are in the very good relations, not so much of buying or trading part but the Defense Dialogue is their, visit of ships are there. For the first time in so many years we had a warship coming to Andaman Nicobar for training between them, so now we are in a good position. But for the trading part, maybe we need to discuss more with India on how to make it happen. WION: India recently banned the export of rice as well. Has this impacted your country and have you raised the matter with the Indian side? Ina Krisnamurthi: Diplomatically we have raised, not so much of the ban because in the past also Indonesia did the same thing and then the impact is very negative, not only for those who import the products, but also for maintaining the stability of price in the world. The world price. So our hope is that Indian Government will consider to review this policy. So that the fluctuation, the stability of world price for commodities, any commodities will happen, because currently, as you may see, because the climate change, the rains, the heats everywhere in the world, the wildfire we need to ensure that the commodity price is secure, and a challenge in fluctuation, we'll need some solutions and that is why we do humbly request the government of India to review this policy. WION: My final question and no conversation can be complete when it comes to Indonesia is the cultural similarities between the two sides. Last year I was in Bali and it was very pleasantly surprising to see the place had so many rituals, which was similar here in India. So what kind of cultural connect or shared cultural heritage both countries have and plan to progress on it? Ina Krisnamurthi: We need to focus on religion, the culture and social and history. And I think what we need to understand is the historical background between the two nations because sometimes we forgot about the importance of the past to what ever happens in the present and the future. So the every you ask plans, many plans because like I said, we at the embassy, my team and I focus on cooperation between universities, cooperation between think tanks, just to find out what sort of past experience between two nations that we can go beyond the past to the future. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Exclusive: PM Modi's attendance underscores ASEAN's Indo-Pacific importance, says Indonesian ambassador

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen engaging in a brief conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday (August 24).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video posted by news agency ANI, the Indian prime minister is seen walking a little ahead of the Chinese president and slowly speaking to him as the two leaders are headed for the media briefing by BRICS leaders.</p>

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1694628404916781377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi and Jinping attended the plenary session together on Wednesday but stood apart in the photograph session.</p>

<p>Last November, the prime minister shook hands with the Chinese president and briefly interacted with him at the formal dinner for G20 leaders in Bali which marked their first face-to-face meeting in public after the military standoff in Ladakh in 2020.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-officials-expands-as-ramaphosa-announces-six-new-members-628689">BRICS officially expands: Six new members to join bloc next year</a></p>

<p>The relations between the two nations have been strained since the armies of India and China clashed in the Galwan Valley in June 2020. In order to resolve the situation, both countries have till now held 19 rounds of military-level talks.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi welcomes expansion of BRICS</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi, earlier in the day, welcomed the expansion of BRICS with which other nations were added to the group — Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India has always supported the expansion of BRICS. India has always believed that adding new members will strengthen BRICS as an organisation,”&nbsp;said Modi, while speaking at a press briefing of BRICS leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the second day, at the open plenary session of the BRICS Summit 2022, the prime minister said that India, under its G20 presidency, gave a lot of importance to the countries of the Global South and appreciated South Africa for chairing the BRICS summit.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;BRICS Summit: Major announcement on expansion expected</strong></p>

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<p>"We welcome the move to give special importance to the countries of the Global South in BRICS under the chairmanship of South Africa. This is not just the aspiration, but also the need of the present times. India has also given importance to this subject under its G20 presidency. One Earth One Family One Future — we are trying to move forward with all countries on this mantra. In the Voice of Global South summit in January this year, 125 countries participated and shared their concerns and priorities," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen engaging in a brief conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday (August 24).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen engaging in a brief conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday (August 24). In the video posted by news agency ANI, the Indian prime minister is seen walking a little ahead of the Chinese president and slowly speaking to him as the two leaders are headed for the media briefing by BRICS leaders. #WATCH | PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping engage in a brief interaction at the 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg pic.twitter.com/1yE3jstVfx — ANI (@ANI) August 24, 2023 × PM Modi and Jinping attended the plenary session together on Wednesday but stood apart in the photograph session. Last November, the prime minister shook hands with the Chinese president and briefly interacted with him at the formal dinner for G20 leaders in Bali which marked their first face-to-face meeting in public after the military standoff in Ladakh in 2020. ALSO READ | BRICS officially expands: Six new members to join bloc next year The relations between the two nations have been strained since the armies of India and China clashed in the Galwan Valley in June 2020. In order to resolve the situation, both countries have till now held 19 rounds of military-level talks. PM Modi welcomes expansion of BRICS Prime Minister Modi, earlier in the day, welcomed the expansion of BRICS with which other nations were added to the group — Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). “India has always supported the expansion of BRICS. India has always believed that adding new members will strengthen BRICS as an organisation,” said Modi, while speaking at a press briefing of BRICS leaders. On the second day, at the open plenary session of the BRICS Summit 2022, the prime minister said that India, under its G20 presidency, gave a lot of importance to the countries of the Global South and appreciated South Africa for chairing the BRICS summit. WATCH | BRICS Summit: Major announcement on expansion expected "We welcome the move to give special importance to the countries of the Global South in BRICS under the chairmanship of South Africa. This is not just the aspiration, but also the need of the present times. India has also given importance to this subject under its G20 presidency. One Earth One Family One Future — we are trying to move forward with all countries on this mantra. In the Voice of Global South summit in January this year, 125 countries participated and shared their concerns and priorities," he stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | India's PM Modi engages in brief interaction with China's Xi Jinping at BRICS Summit

<p>During a group photo session at the 15th BRICS Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated a remarkable show of respect for his country's flag. As he noticed the Indian tricolour on the ground, symbolising his standing position, he carefully avoided stepping on it. Instead, he picked it up and kept it with him. His act of reverence did not go unnoticed, as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa promptly followed suit.</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1694281671489859872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Bilateral meeting between Modi, Ramaphosa</strong></h2>

<p>On the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a bilateral meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This meeting served as an opportunity for both leaders to assess the progress achieved in bilateral relations and to exchange perspectives of their countries&nbsp;on a range of regional and multilateral issues. They also explored avenues for strengthening the collective voice of the Global South.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-balancing-act-or-anti-west-pivot-indias-choices-at-the-brics-summit-628267">Explained: Balancing act or anti-West pivot? India’s choices at the BRICS summit</a></p>

<h2><strong>Satisfaction over bilateral progress</strong></h2>

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that Prime Minister Modi and President Ramaphosa expressed their contentment with the advancements made across various domains, encompassing defence, agriculture, trade and investment, health, conservation, and people-to-people ties. This signified the positive trajectory of the India-South Africa relationship.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;BRICS Summit 2023: Dissatisfaction with the global order among developing nations</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Continued multilateral cooperation</strong></h2>

<p>In addition to the bilateral discussions, Modi and Ramaphosa deliberated on sustained collaboration within multilateral forums and mutual interests in regional and global affairs. President Ramaphosa voiced his full support for India's presidency of the G20 and commended India for extending full membership to the African Union in the G20. He also expressed eagerness to visit New Delhi for the upcoming G-20 Summit.</p>

<p>This meeting underscored the commitment of India and South Africa to furthering their partnership, fostering regional stability, and advancing the interests of the Global South on the international stage.</p>

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During a group photo session at the 15th BRICS Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated a remarkable show of respect for his country's flag. As he noticed the Indian tricolour on the ground, symbolising his standing position, he carefully avoided stepping on it.

During a group photo session at the 15th BRICS Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi demonstrated a remarkable show of respect for his country's flag. As he noticed the Indian tricolour on the ground, symbolising his standing position, he carefully avoided stepping on it. Instead, he picked it up and kept it with him. His act of reverence did not go unnoticed, as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa promptly followed suit. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Johannesburg, South Africa | PM Narendra Modi notices Indian Tricolour on the ground (to denote standing position) during the group photo at BRICS, makes sure to not step on it, picks it up and keeps it with him. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa follows suit. pic.twitter.com/vf5pAkgPQo — ANI (@ANI) August 23, 2023 × Bilateral meeting between Modi, Ramaphosa On the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a bilateral meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This meeting served as an opportunity for both leaders to assess the progress achieved in bilateral relations and to exchange perspectives of their countries on a range of regional and multilateral issues. They also explored avenues for strengthening the collective voice of the Global South. Also read | Explained: Balancing act or anti-West pivot? India’s choices at the BRICS summit Satisfaction over bilateral progress The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that Prime Minister Modi and President Ramaphosa expressed their contentment with the advancements made across various domains, encompassing defence, agriculture, trade and investment, health, conservation, and people-to-people ties. This signified the positive trajectory of the India-South Africa relationship. Also watch | BRICS Summit 2023: Dissatisfaction with the global order among developing nations Continued multilateral cooperation In addition to the bilateral discussions, Modi and Ramaphosa deliberated on sustained collaboration within multilateral forums and mutual interests in regional and global affairs. President Ramaphosa voiced his full support for India's presidency of the G20 and commended India for extending full membership to the African Union in the G20. He also expressed eagerness to visit New Delhi for the upcoming G-20 Summit. This meeting underscored the commitment of India and South Africa to furthering their partnership, fostering regional stability, and advancing the interests of the Global South on the international stage. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM Modi notices Indian flag on podium at BRICS 2023, this is what he does next | WATCH

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2023-pm-modi-departs-for-south-africa-xi-reaches-johannesburg-627730">BRICS group</a> will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg between August 22 and August 24. Leaders of member nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are gathering in South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are speculations that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping will hold a bilateral meeting. While there are reports about the same doing the rounds, there's no official confirmation yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the first in-person BRICS summit after 2019 as in the last three years, the summits were held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While departing for the South African city, PM Modi said that he values that BRICS has become a platform for discussing and deliberating on issues of concern for the entire Global South, including development imperatives and reform of the multilateral system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that the summit will provide an opportunity for BRICS to identify future areas of cooperation and review institutional development.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-departs-for-johannesburg-south-africa-to-attend-15th-brics-summit-627706">PM Modi departs for South Africa to attend 15th BRICS Summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>But will he meet Xi? Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra was also asked about the same and he replied that it is "still being developed".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have a positive intent and an open mind when it comes to BRICS expansion," Kwatra said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be PM Modi and Xi's first meeting since the India-China border crisis started in May 2020 if the bilateral meeting happens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last November, at the G20 dinner in Bali that was hosted by Indonesian President Joko Widodo, the two leaders had a fleeting encounter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: At least 40 nations have shown interest in becoming BRICS members&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Inclusion of new members</strong></h2>

<p>The foreign secretary said the modalities for the inclusion of new members into the BRICS are being discussed among the Sherpas of the grouping. "I would not want to prejudge the outcome of the discussions," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kwatra said there is considerable interest in joining the grouping by various countries. Twenty-three countries have submitted their applications to join the BRICS and Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Argentina have emerged as strong contenders for the grouping's membership.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The BRICS group will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg between August 22 and August 24. Leaders of member nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are gathering in South Africa.

The BRICS group will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg between August 22 and August 24. Leaders of member nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are gathering in South Africa. There are speculations that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping will hold a bilateral meeting. While there are reports about the same doing the rounds, there's no official confirmation yet. This is the first in-person BRICS summit after 2019 as in the last three years, the summits were held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic. While departing for the South African city, PM Modi said that he values that BRICS has become a platform for discussing and deliberating on issues of concern for the entire Global South, including development imperatives and reform of the multilateral system. He added that the summit will provide an opportunity for BRICS to identify future areas of cooperation and review institutional development. Also read: PM Modi departs for South Africa to attend 15th BRICS Summit But will he meet Xi? Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra was also asked about the same and he replied that it is "still being developed". "We have a positive intent and an open mind when it comes to BRICS expansion," Kwatra said. It will be PM Modi and Xi's first meeting since the India-China border crisis started in May 2020 if the bilateral meeting happens. Last November, at the G20 dinner in Bali that was hosted by Indonesian President Joko Widodo, the two leaders had a fleeting encounter. Watch: At least 40 nations have shown interest in becoming BRICS members × Inclusion of new members The foreign secretary said the modalities for the inclusion of new members into the BRICS are being discussed among the Sherpas of the grouping. "I would not want to prejudge the outcome of the discussions," he said. Kwatra said there is considerable interest in joining the grouping by various countries. Twenty-three countries have submitted their applications to join the BRICS and Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Argentina have emerged as strong contenders for the grouping's membership. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BRICS Summit 2023: Will PM Modi and Xi Jinping hold bilateral meeting?

<p>Indian Science Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday unveiled a new Lotus flower variety named "Namoh 108",&nbsp;which has 108 petals and holds a particular religious significance. This unique variety was developed by the scientists of National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI),&nbsp;a constituent institution of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).</p>

<p>The "NBRI Namoh 108" lotus variety is known to blossom from March through December. It is also the first instance where a flower's entire genome has been sequenced to understand its distinctive attributes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During an event in Lucknow, the minister praised the NBRI for naming the lotus variant as "Namoh 108". Singh characterised this botanical creation as a "grand gift to the relentless zeal and innate beauty" of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>It is particularly because the current year coincides with the tenth year of Modi's service as the Prime Minister.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-chief-hails-modis-home-state-gujarat-as-futures-mecca-of-traditional-medicine-627109">WHO chief hails Modi's home state Gujarat as future's 'Mecca of traditional medicine'</a></p>

<p>The minister also inaugurated the Lotus Mission, emphasising its execution as a dedicated endeavor similar to other crucial initiatives such as the National Honey and Bee Mission, National Bamboo Mission, National Food Security Mission, National Mission on Natural Farming, National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture, and Gokul Mission.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ladakh-nine-indian-soldiers-dead-many-injured-after-army-vehicle-plunges-into-gorge-627075">Ladakh: Nine Indian soldiers dead after Army vehicle plunges into gorge</a></p>

<h2><strong>108 petal lotus and its religious significance</strong></h2>

<p>The "Namoh 108"&nbsp;lotus, notable for its unique feature of having 108 petals, was initially discovered several years back in Manipur. The specimen had been part of the CSIR-NBRI's assortment of flora and fauna, which serves as a foundation for their research efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, it was only about four years ago that a scientist noticed the lotus's distinct petal count, a number of great significance in Hinduism.&nbsp;“Considering the religious importance of the ‘lotus flower’ and ‘the digit 108’, this combination gives an important identity to this variety,” Singh reportedly said Saturday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India’s Chandrayaan-3 in faceoff with Russia’s Luna-25 for unchartered lunar south pole</strong></p>

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<p>Though upon initial examination, the flower resembled other ordinary lotus types in India, but a newfound discovery was made.&nbsp;After conducting&nbsp;a comprehensive study of the lotus's traits, it eventually led to the sequencing of its genome.</p>

<p>Significantly, 'Namoh 108' is the sole lotus variety in India to have undergone genome sequencing, Ajit Kumar Shasany, Director, CSIR-NBRI told The Hindu. The only other sequenced lotus variety in the world hails from China and exhibits substantial dissimilarity.</p>

<p>With the revelation of its 108-petal property, CSIR-NBRI embarked on the task of cloning the 'Namoh 108' and refining its germplasm to make it suitable for cultivation beyond Manipur's confines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We will be registering as the official lotus variety out of India. After all, this is our national flower,” Shasany reportedly said and added, “We have plans on facilitating an entire industrial and entrepreneurial ecosystem around this.”</p>

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Indian Science Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday unveiled a new Lotus flower variety named "Namoh 108", which has 108 petals and holds a particular religious significance.

Indian Science Minister Jitendra Singh on Saturday unveiled a new Lotus flower variety named "Namoh 108", which has 108 petals and holds a particular religious significance. This unique variety was developed by the scientists of National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), a constituent institution of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The "NBRI Namoh 108" lotus variety is known to blossom from March through December. It is also the first instance where a flower's entire genome has been sequenced to understand its distinctive attributes. During an event in Lucknow, the minister praised the NBRI for naming the lotus variant as "Namoh 108". Singh characterised this botanical creation as a "grand gift to the relentless zeal and innate beauty" of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is particularly because the current year coincides with the tenth year of Modi's service as the Prime Minister. Also Read | WHO chief hails Modi's home state Gujarat as future's 'Mecca of traditional medicine' The minister also inaugurated the Lotus Mission, emphasising its execution as a dedicated endeavor similar to other crucial initiatives such as the National Honey and Bee Mission, National Bamboo Mission, National Food Security Mission, National Mission on Natural Farming, National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture, and Gokul Mission. Also Read | Ladakh: Nine Indian soldiers dead after Army vehicle plunges into gorge 108 petal lotus and its religious significance The "Namoh 108" lotus, notable for its unique feature of having 108 petals, was initially discovered several years back in Manipur. The specimen had been part of the CSIR-NBRI's assortment of flora and fauna, which serves as a foundation for their research efforts. However, it was only about four years ago that a scientist noticed the lotus's distinct petal count, a number of great significance in Hinduism. “Considering the religious importance of the ‘lotus flower’ and ‘the digit 108’, this combination gives an important identity to this variety,” Singh reportedly said Saturday. Watch | India’s Chandrayaan-3 in faceoff with Russia’s Luna-25 for unchartered lunar south pole × Though upon initial examination, the flower resembled other ordinary lotus types in India, but a newfound discovery was made. After conducting a comprehensive study of the lotus's traits, it eventually led to the sequencing of its genome. Significantly, 'Namoh 108' is the sole lotus variety in India to have undergone genome sequencing, Ajit Kumar Shasany, Director, CSIR-NBRI told The Hindu. The only other sequenced lotus variety in the world hails from China and exhibits substantial dissimilarity. With the revelation of its 108-petal property, CSIR-NBRI embarked on the task of cloning the 'Namoh 108' and refining its germplasm to make it suitable for cultivation beyond Manipur's confines. “We will be registering as the official lotus variety out of India. After all, this is our national flower,” Shasany reportedly said and added, “We have plans on facilitating an entire industrial and entrepreneurial ecosystem around this.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indian science minister unveils 'Namoh 108', a new lotus variety with religious significance

<p>In a bid to fortify India's active involvement in the ASEAN community and to reinforce diplomatic bonds in the Indo-Pacific region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a visit to Indonesia during the first week of September. The visit will see his participation in ASEAN-related summit meetings held in Jakarta, showcasing India's commitment to regional collaboration and dialogue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Scheduled from September 6th to 7th, this visit will be Prime Minister Modi's second trip to Indonesia within a year, his prior presence being in November 2022 at the G20 summit in Bali. Notably, the visit will happen just a day before New Delhi hosts the annual G20 summit from September 9th-10th. &nbsp;During his stay, Prime Minister Modi will participate in several key summits, including the East Asia Summit and the India-ASEAN Summit.</p>

<p>PM Modi's presence underscores the continuity of India's proactive engagement with ASEAN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This engagement holds significant importance within the framework of India's 'Act East Policy,' with the ASEAN partnership standing as a cornerstone of India's foreign policy strategy. The steady growth of trade and investment relations between India and ASEAN underscores the mutually beneficial nature of their collaboration.</p>

<p>Last year, Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar represented the country at the India-ASEAN Summit and other related summit meetings in Cambodia. The summit meetings marked a turning point as they elevated India's association with the bloc to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership (CSP).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indonesian President Joko Widodo will preside over 12 meetings during the 43rd ASEAN Summit, set to take place at the Jakarta Convention Center from September 5th to 7th.</p>

<p>The meetings include the 43rd ASEAN Summit plenary session, the 43rd ASEAN Summit retreat session, the 26th ASEAN-China Summit, the 24th ASEAN-South Korea Summit, the ASEAN-Indo-Pacific Forum and the symbolic transfer of the ASEAN chairmanship to Laos.</p>

<p>The East Asia Summit and the ASEAN Plus Three Summit will take place on September 7. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The ASEAN summit and its parallel summit meetings hold immense significance as they offer a platform for dialogue and cooperation among leaders of Southeast Asian nations, along with the participation of key partner countries.</p>

<p>But overall, the upcoming weeks are poised to see a flurry of high-level diplomatic activities, commencing with the BRICS summit from August 22nd to 24th in Johannesburg, followed by the ASEAN summit meetings in Jakarta from September 5th to 7th, and culminating in the G20 summit in Delhi on September 9th-10th.&nbsp;</p>

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In a bid to fortify India's active involvement in the ASEAN community and to reinforce diplomatic bonds in the Indo-Pacific region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a visit to Indonesia during the first week of September.

In a bid to fortify India's active involvement in the ASEAN community and to reinforce diplomatic bonds in the Indo-Pacific region, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a visit to Indonesia during the first week of September. The visit will see his participation in ASEAN-related summit meetings held in Jakarta, showcasing India's commitment to regional collaboration and dialogue. Scheduled from September 6th to 7th, this visit will be Prime Minister Modi's second trip to Indonesia within a year, his prior presence being in November 2022 at the G20 summit in Bali. Notably, the visit will happen just a day before New Delhi hosts the annual G20 summit from September 9th-10th. During his stay, Prime Minister Modi will participate in several key summits, including the East Asia Summit and the India-ASEAN Summit. PM Modi's presence underscores the continuity of India's proactive engagement with ASEAN. This engagement holds significant importance within the framework of India's 'Act East Policy,' with the ASEAN partnership standing as a cornerstone of India's foreign policy strategy. The steady growth of trade and investment relations between India and ASEAN underscores the mutually beneficial nature of their collaboration. Last year, Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar represented the country at the India-ASEAN Summit and other related summit meetings in Cambodia. The summit meetings marked a turning point as they elevated India's association with the bloc to the level of a comprehensive strategic partnership (CSP). Indonesian President Joko Widodo will preside over 12 meetings during the 43rd ASEAN Summit, set to take place at the Jakarta Convention Center from September 5th to 7th. The meetings include the 43rd ASEAN Summit plenary session, the 43rd ASEAN Summit retreat session, the 26th ASEAN-China Summit, the 24th ASEAN-South Korea Summit, the ASEAN-Indo-Pacific Forum and the symbolic transfer of the ASEAN chairmanship to Laos. The East Asia Summit and the ASEAN Plus Three Summit will take place on September 7. The ASEAN summit and its parallel summit meetings hold immense significance as they offer a platform for dialogue and cooperation among leaders of Southeast Asian nations, along with the participation of key partner countries. But overall, the upcoming weeks are poised to see a flurry of high-level diplomatic activities, commencing with the BRICS summit from August 22nd to 24th in Johannesburg, followed by the ASEAN summit meetings in Jakarta from September 5th to 7th, and culminating in the G20 summit in Delhi on September 9th-10th. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian PM Modi to travel to Indonesia in the first week of September

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (August 15) addressed the nation on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day. While giving his speech at New Delhi's Red Fort, PM Modi called the people of India his 'parivarjan' (my fellow citizens), which was a new thing, as in his earlier speeches, PM Modi had referred to the people of the country as "my beloved brothers and sisters".&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also slammed dynasty politics across the nation. He stated that corruption and appeasement politics have damaged the country and noted that political parties who believe in dynastic politics have one mantra – "party of the family, by the family and for the family". He urged that there is a need to fight corruption, dynasty and appeasement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Targetting the opposition, PM Modi said: "'Parivarvaad' and appeasement have caused immense damage to the country. How can a political party have only one family in charge? For them, their life mantra is 'Party of the family, by the family and for the family'."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-2023-pm-modis-speech-this-year-was-not-the-longest-625614">PM Modi's speech this year was not his longest</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>PM Modi recited a poem to exhort people to fulfil the 2047 aim he set for them to make the country a developed economy&nbsp;by the time 100 years of freedom are celebrated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I firmly believe that when the country will celebrate 100 years of freedom in 2047, the country would be a developed India. I say this on the basis of the capability of my country and available resources. But the need of the hour is to fight three evils - corruption, dynasty and appeasement," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-announces-launch-of-vishwakarma-yojana-for-those-with-traditional-skills-625611">PM Modi announces launch of Vishwakarma Yojana for those with traditional skills</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>This year will culminate the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' celebrations, which were launched by PM Modi from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on March 12, 2021, and will usher the country into the ‘Amrit Kaal’ (golden era).&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also carried forward a custom of wearing colourful turbans. This time he donned a multicolour Rajasthani bandhani print turban with an off-white kurta and churidar for the Independence Day celebrations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why India is a major global trade partner | World Business Watch Special&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>He also asserted that he will return to power in 2024 and will detail the country's achievements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The next five years are for unprecedented development. The biggest golden moment to realise the dream of 2047 is the next five years. The next time, on August 15, I will present before you the achievements and developments of the country from this Red Fort," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (August 15) addressed the nation on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day. While giving his speech at New Delhi's Red Fort, PM Modi called the people of India his 'parivarjan' (my fellow citizens), which was a new thing, as in his earlier speeches, PM Modi had referred to the people of the country as "my beloved brothers and sisters".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (August 15) addressed the nation on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day. While giving his speech at New Delhi's Red Fort, PM Modi called the people of India his 'parivarjan' (my fellow citizens), which was a new thing, as in his earlier speeches, PM Modi had referred to the people of the country as "my beloved brothers and sisters". PM Modi also slammed dynasty politics across the nation. He stated that corruption and appeasement politics have damaged the country and noted that political parties who believe in dynastic politics have one mantra – "party of the family, by the family and for the family". He urged that there is a need to fight corruption, dynasty and appeasement. Targetting the opposition, PM Modi said: "'Parivarvaad' and appeasement have caused immense damage to the country. How can a political party have only one family in charge? For them, their life mantra is 'Party of the family, by the family and for the family'." Also read: PM Modi's speech this year was not his longest PM Modi recited a poem to exhort people to fulfil the 2047 aim he set for them to make the country a developed economy by the time 100 years of freedom are celebrated. "I firmly believe that when the country will celebrate 100 years of freedom in 2047, the country would be a developed India. I say this on the basis of the capability of my country and available resources. But the need of the hour is to fight three evils - corruption, dynasty and appeasement," he added. #WATCH | PM Modi speaks on dynastic politics during his Independence Day speech "Today, 'parivarvaad' and appeasement has destroyed our country. How can a political party have only one family in charge? For them their life mantra is- party of the family, by the family and for… pic.twitter.com/xxmumTCc4Z — ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2023 × Also read: PM Modi announces launch of Vishwakarma Yojana for those with traditional skills This year will culminate the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' celebrations, which were launched by PM Modi from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on March 12, 2021, and will usher the country into the ‘Amrit Kaal’ (golden era). PM Modi also carried forward a custom of wearing colourful turbans. This time he donned a multicolour Rajasthani bandhani print turban with an off-white kurta and churidar for the Independence Day celebrations. Watch: Why India is a major global trade partner | World Business Watch Special × He also asserted that he will return to power in 2024 and will detail the country's achievements. "The next five years are for unprecedented development. The biggest golden moment to realise the dream of 2047 is the next five years. The next time, on August 15, I will present before you the achievements and developments of the country from this Red Fort," PM Modi said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Independence Day: PM Modi calls people of India 'parivarjan' in his speech, slams dynastic politics

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, in his tenth consecutive Independence Day address, highlighted how women have played a significant role in the development of the country, stating that women scientists are the ones leading the Chandrayaan mission.</p>

<p>"The one thing that will take the country forward is women-led development. Today, we can proudly say that India has the maximum number of pilots in civil aviation. Women scientists are leading the Chandrayaan mission," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>"I want to tell the mothers, sisters and daughters that today the country has progressed due to the power of you all," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The G20 countries are also recognising the importance of women-led development," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1691292749713248256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He praised the role of women scientists in India's latest space mission, Chandrayaan-3. The craft is currently orbiting the moon and India is aiming to become&nbsp;the fourth country in the world to achieve a successful soft landing on the Moon after the United States, former Soviet Union, and China.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-announces-launch-of-vishwakarma-yojana-for-those-with-traditional-skills-625611">PM Modi announces launch of Vishwakarma Yojana for those with traditional skills</a></p>

<p>Chandrayaan-3 is India's third lunar mission and the second attempt at achieving a soft landing on the Moon's surface after the unsuccessful 2019 lunar mission, Chandrayaan-2.</p>

<p>The Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft was launched on GSLV Mark 3 (LVM 3) heavy-lift launch vehicle successfully from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota on July 14. It is scheduled to land on the surface of the moon on August 23.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, PM Modi in his address also took the opportunity to thank the farmers for their efforts that helped India progress in the agriculture sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, in his tenth consecutive Independence Day address, highlighted how women have played a significant role in the development of the country, stating that women scientists are the ones leading the Chandrayaan mission.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, in his tenth consecutive Independence Day address, highlighted how women have played a significant role in the development of the country, stating that women scientists are the ones leading the Chandrayaan mission. "The one thing that will take the country forward is women-led development. Today, we can proudly say that India has the maximum number of pilots in civil aviation. Women scientists are leading the Chandrayaan mission," PM Modi said. "I want to tell the mothers, sisters and daughters that today the country has progressed due to the power of you all," he said. "The G20 countries are also recognising the importance of women-led development," he added. VIDEO | "An additional force is going to take India forward and that is women-led development. Today, India can proudly say that it has the most number of women pilots. Whether it is Chandrayaan or Moon mission, women are leading the programmes," says PM Modi in his Independence… pic.twitter.com/2zvb39guwA — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 15, 2023 × He praised the role of women scientists in India's latest space mission, Chandrayaan-3. The craft is currently orbiting the moon and India is aiming to become the fourth country in the world to achieve a successful soft landing on the Moon after the United States, former Soviet Union, and China. Also read: PM Modi announces launch of Vishwakarma Yojana for those with traditional skills Chandrayaan-3 is India's third lunar mission and the second attempt at achieving a soft landing on the Moon's surface after the unsuccessful 2019 lunar mission, Chandrayaan-2. The Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft was launched on GSLV Mark 3 (LVM 3) heavy-lift launch vehicle successfully from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota on July 14. It is scheduled to land on the surface of the moon on August 23. Meanwhile, PM Modi in his address also took the opportunity to thank the farmers for their efforts that helped India progress in the agriculture sector. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Narendra Modi highlights significance of women-led development in Independence Day address

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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (August 13) urged citizens to participate in the central government's "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign. Taking to Twitter, which has now been rebranded to X, Modi asked citizens to change the profile photograph of their social media accounts to that of 'Tiranga' (India's&nbsp;tricolour).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the spirit of the #HarGharTiranga movement, let us change the DP of our social media accounts and extend support to this unique effort which will deepen the bond between our beloved country and us," Modi said as his profile photograph changed to the national flag.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Tiranga symbolises the spirit of freedom and national unity. Every Indian has an emotional connect with the Tricolour and it inspires us to work harder to further national progress. I urge you all to take part in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HarGharTiranga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HarGharTiranga</a> movement between 13th to 15th August.…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1690010073534197760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The Tiranga symbolises the spirit of freedom and national unity. Every Indian has an emotional connect with the Tricolour and it inspires us to work harder to further national progress. I urge you all to take part in the&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HarGharTiranga?src=hashtag_click" target="_blank">#HarGharTiranga</a>&nbsp;movement between 13th to 15th August. Upload your photos with the Tiranga here...&nbsp;<a href="https://t.co/rdX0SmZa1t" target="_blank">https://harghartiranga.com</a>," the prime minister added.</p>

<p>The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign was launched by the government last year to inspire citizens to hoist the national flag on their premises from August 13-15. On Friday, a Tiranga bike rally was organised in New Delhi wherein members of parliament (MPs) and ministers took part.</p>

<p>"The idea behind the campaign is to instill the feeling of patriotism in the hearts of people and reminisce the journey of India and those who have contributed towards creating this great nation. Last year, this campaign witnessed immense success wherein Crores of households hoisted the Tiranga in their homes physically and six Crore people uploaded selfies on the Har Ghar Tiranga website," according to a government statement.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (August 13) urged citizens to participate in the central government's "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign. Taking to Twitter, which has now been rebranded to X, Modi asked citizens to change the profile photograph of their social media accounts to that of 'Tiranga' (India's tricolour).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (August 13) urged citizens to participate in the central government's "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign. Taking to Twitter, which has now been rebranded to X, Modi asked citizens to change the profile photograph of their social media accounts to that of 'Tiranga' (India's tricolour). "In the spirit of the #HarGharTiranga movement, let us change the DP of our social media accounts and extend support to this unique effort which will deepen the bond between our beloved country and us," Modi said as his profile photograph changed to the national flag. The Tiranga symbolises the spirit of freedom and national unity. Every Indian has an emotional connect with the Tricolour and it inspires us to work harder to further national progress. I urge you all to take part in the #HarGharTiranga movement between 13th to 15th August.… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 11, 2023 × "The Tiranga symbolises the spirit of freedom and national unity. Every Indian has an emotional connect with the Tricolour and it inspires us to work harder to further national progress. I urge you all to take part in the #HarGharTiranga movement between 13th to 15th August. Upload your photos with the Tiranga here... https://harghartiranga.com," the prime minister added. The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign was launched by the government last year to inspire citizens to hoist the national flag on their premises from August 13-15. On Friday, a Tiranga bike rally was organised in New Delhi wherein members of parliament (MPs) and ministers took part. "The idea behind the campaign is to instill the feeling of patriotism in the hearts of people and reminisce the journey of India and those who have contributed towards creating this great nation. Last year, this campaign witnessed immense success wherein Crores of households hoisted the Tiranga in their homes physically and six Crore people uploaded selfies on the Har Ghar Tiranga website," according to a government statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Independence Day: Indian PM urges nation to take part in 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign

<p>On Saturday (August 12), Harmanpreet Singh-led India edged past Malaysia in an epic final to clinch the Asian Champions Trophy title. Having taken the lead in the initial moments, India were on the back foot, in Chennai, as Malaysia made it 3-1 heading into the half-time. However, captain Harmanpreet capitalised on&nbsp;penalty, in the 43rd minute, to bring India back into the contest. Soon,&nbsp;Gurjant Singh scored whereas&nbsp;Akashdeep Singh scored the winner, with four minutes left, to take India to a stunning 4-3 win.</p>

<p>After the win, top dignitaries congratulated India on the stunning win. The Men in Blue remained unbeaten throughout the competition and held their nerves, displayed commendable fighting spirit to come from behind and clinch the title in the marquee finale. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also lauded Harman &amp; Co. for their historic achievement on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.</p>

<p>PM Modi tweeted, "Congratulations to our Men's Hockey Team on the spectacular victory in the Asian Championship! This is India's 4th triumph and it showcases the tireless dedication, rigorous training and unyielding determination of our players. Their extraordinary performance has ignited immense pride across the nation. Best wishes to our players for their future endeavours."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to our Men's Hockey Team on the spectacular victory in the Asian Championship! This is India's 4th triumph and it showcases the tireless dedication, rigorous training and unyielding determination of our players. Their extraordinary performance has ignited immense… <a href="https://t.co/JRY2MSDx7Y">pic.twitter.com/JRY2MSDx7Y</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1690421363608268801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-champions-trophy-india-clinch-record-fourth-title-in-thrilling-4-3-win-against-malaysia-624916">Asian Champions Trophy: India clinch record fourth title in thrilling 4-3 win against Malaysia</a></strong></p>

<p>This became India's fourth title in the Asian Champions Trophy and first-ever since the 2018 edition, where they ended as the joint-winners along with arch-rivals Pakistan. The whole squad was on a roll throughout the tournament. Harmanpreet led from the front, ending with as many as nine goals, whereas Arshdeep also scored on four instances, including the decisive goal in the finale. Above all, India's fitness stood out as the players were upbeat after trailing for long in the summit clash and didn't get bogged down from doing the hard yards.</p>

<p>Earlier, Japan beat South Korea 5-3 to settle for&nbsp;bronze whereas Pakistan finished fifth after their win against China on Friday (August 11).&nbsp;For India, the win is crucial with the Asian Games to be held later this year, commencing next month in China.</p>

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On Saturday (August 12), Harmanpreet Singh-led India edged past Malaysia in an epic final to clinch the Asian Champions Trophy title. Having taken the lead in the initial moments, India were on the back foot, in Chennai, as Malaysia made it 3-1 heading into the half-time.

On Saturday (August 12), Harmanpreet Singh-led India edged past Malaysia in an epic final to clinch the Asian Champions Trophy title. Having taken the lead in the initial moments, India were on the back foot, in Chennai, as Malaysia made it 3-1 heading into the half-time. However, captain Harmanpreet capitalised on penalty, in the 43rd minute, to bring India back into the contest. Soon, Gurjant Singh scored whereas Akashdeep Singh scored the winner, with four minutes left, to take India to a stunning 4-3 win. After the win, top dignitaries congratulated India on the stunning win. The Men in Blue remained unbeaten throughout the competition and held their nerves, displayed commendable fighting spirit to come from behind and clinch the title in the marquee finale. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also lauded Harman & Co. for their historic achievement on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. PM Modi tweeted, "Congratulations to our Men's Hockey Team on the spectacular victory in the Asian Championship! This is India's 4th triumph and it showcases the tireless dedication, rigorous training and unyielding determination of our players. Their extraordinary performance has ignited immense pride across the nation. Best wishes to our players for their future endeavours." Congratulations to our Men's Hockey Team on the spectacular victory in the Asian Championship! This is India's 4th triumph and it showcases the tireless dedication, rigorous training and unyielding determination of our players. Their extraordinary performance has ignited immense… pic.twitter.com/JRY2MSDx7Y — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 12, 2023 × Also read: Asian Champions Trophy: India clinch record fourth title in thrilling 4-3 win against Malaysia This became India's fourth title in the Asian Champions Trophy and first-ever since the 2018 edition, where they ended as the joint-winners along with arch-rivals Pakistan. The whole squad was on a roll throughout the tournament. Harmanpreet led from the front, ending with as many as nine goals, whereas Arshdeep also scored on four instances, including the decisive goal in the finale. Above all, India's fitness stood out as the players were upbeat after trailing for long in the summit clash and didn't get bogged down from doing the hard yards. Earlier, Japan beat South Korea 5-3 to settle for bronze whereas Pakistan finished fifth after their win against China on Friday (August 11). For India, the win is crucial with the Asian Games to be held later this year, commencing next month in China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi lauds Indian team after stunning Asian Champions Trophy win, says 'it has ignited immense pride'

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leader of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance slammed the country's opposition for their walkout from Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament, when Modi was defending his government's record while facing opposition's no-confidence motion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The people of the opposition ran away from the house, the whole country has seen this," Modi said while virtually addressing West Bengal state's&nbsp;BJP workers on Saturday, August 12.</p>

<p>"But it is sad that these people betrayed the people of Manipur so much," he added.</p>

<p><em>More information to be added soon.</em></p>

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India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leader of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance slammed the country's opposition for their walkout from Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament, when Modi was defending his government's record while facing opposition's no-confidence motion.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leader of ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance slammed the country's opposition for their walkout from Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament, when Modi was defending his government's record while facing opposition's no-confidence motion. "The people of the opposition ran away from the house, the whole country has seen this," Modi said while virtually addressing West Bengal state's BJP workers on Saturday, August 12. "But it is sad that these people betrayed the people of Manipur so much," he added. More information to be added soon. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Country has seen this': Modi accuses Opposition of betraying people of Manipur

<p>The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has proposed a bill in the parliament that seeks to remove the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee that appoints the country's top election officers.</p>

<p>Under the new bill, the Chief Election Commissioners and Election Commissioners shall be selected by a panel consisting of the prime minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and a Union Minister nominated by the prime minister.</p>

<p>The legislation&nbsp;titled ‘The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023’, was introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in the Rajya Sabha (upper house) amid din over protests in Manipur.</p>

<p>It will be tabled on Friday (Aug 11) for discussion.</p>

<p>If passed in both Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha, the central government can pick and choose any official as per its wishes and scuttle the judiciary’s chances of having a say in the appointment process.</p>

<h2><strong>Oppn condemns proposed bill</strong></h2>

<p>The opposition pointed out that this will affect the neutrality of the Election Commission (EC) as the selection panel would effectively have two members of the Bhartiya Janata Party —&nbsp;the prime minister and the cabinet minister.</p>

<p>The Congress criticised the bill, terming it as "another attempt to control important institutions".</p>

<p>"The PM will appoint a Union Cabinet Minister to replace the CJI as a member of the selection committee to recommend a Chief Election Commissioner. The Opposition leader will be a member but is bound to be outnumbered. This is yet another way to control an institution that must be independent," Congress MP Sushmita Dev said.</p>

<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also raised the same concern, saying that it will influence the fairness of elections.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-exudes-confidence-during-no-confidence-motion-debate-slams-india-alliance-624273">India: No-confidence motion defeated; PM Modi exudes 'confidence' of 2024 win, slams I.N.D.I.A. alliance</a></p>

<p>"I had already said that the prime minister does not obey the Supreme Court of the country. His message is clear - he will bring a law through the Parliament to overturn whichever Supreme Court order he does not like. It is a very dangerous situation if the prime minister does not follow the Supreme Court," Kejriwal said on X.</p>

<h2><strong>Dilutes SC ruling</strong></h2>

<p>The move comes at a time when the present Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey is all set to vacate the office next year, possibly days before the announcement of dates for the 2024 general election.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-speaks-on-manipur-issue-says-centre-and-state-working-together-to-restore-peace-624288">PM Modi speaks on Manipur issue, says centre and state working together to restore peace</a></p>

<p>Also, the legislation might trigger a fresh face-off between the Supreme Court and the government, as it falls in contravention to the top court's ruling in March that the selection panel should comprise the prime minister, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha and the CJI.</p>

<p>The court had said the order would hold good until a law was made by the parliament.</p>

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The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has proposed a bill in the parliament that seeks to remove the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee that appoints the country's top election officers.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has proposed a bill in the parliament that seeks to remove the Chief Justice of India from the selection committee that appoints the country's top election officers. Under the new bill, the Chief Election Commissioners and Election Commissioners shall be selected by a panel consisting of the prime minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and a Union Minister nominated by the prime minister. The legislation titled ‘The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023’, was introduced by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in the Rajya Sabha (upper house) amid din over protests in Manipur. It will be tabled on Friday (Aug 11) for discussion. If passed in both Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha, the central government can pick and choose any official as per its wishes and scuttle the judiciary’s chances of having a say in the appointment process. Oppn condemns proposed bill The opposition pointed out that this will affect the neutrality of the Election Commission (EC) as the selection panel would effectively have two members of the Bhartiya Janata Party — the prime minister and the cabinet minister. The Congress criticised the bill, terming it as "another attempt to control important institutions". "The PM will appoint a Union Cabinet Minister to replace the CJI as a member of the selection committee to recommend a Chief Election Commissioner. The Opposition leader will be a member but is bound to be outnumbered. This is yet another way to control an institution that must be independent," Congress MP Sushmita Dev said. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also raised the same concern, saying that it will influence the fairness of elections. Also read | India: No-confidence motion defeated; PM Modi exudes 'confidence' of 2024 win, slams I.N.D.I.A. alliance "I had already said that the prime minister does not obey the Supreme Court of the country. His message is clear - he will bring a law through the Parliament to overturn whichever Supreme Court order he does not like. It is a very dangerous situation if the prime minister does not follow the Supreme Court," Kejriwal said on X. Dilutes SC ruling The move comes at a time when the present Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey is all set to vacate the office next year, possibly days before the announcement of dates for the 2024 general election. Also read | PM Modi speaks on Manipur issue, says centre and state working together to restore peace Also, the legislation might trigger a fresh face-off between the Supreme Court and the government, as it falls in contravention to the top court's ruling in March that the selection panel should comprise the prime minister, the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha and the CJI. The court had said the order would hold good until a law was made by the parliament. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi-led govt brings a bill excluding Chief Justice from panel selecting poll officers

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 10) took a harsh dig at the opposition while addressing the Lok Sabha in his reply to the no-trust motion. The no-confidence motion in parliament was defeated as the opposition staged&nbsp;a walkout during a fiery speech by PM Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The PM exuded confidence for the 2024 general elections&nbsp;and said, "The no-confidence motion has been always lucky for us; this one also will ensure that we will return with a record-breaking mandate in next year's general election."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking a dig at the opposition, he said, "The country trusts that when you will bring the no confidence motion in 2028, the country would be among the top three economies of the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the Opposition brought the no-confidence motion in 2018 also, and added&nbsp;that this time, the floor test was more for the I.N.D.I.A. alliance than the government, and was proven right.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While PM Modi spoke,&nbsp;Congress MPs Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi left parliament as the opposition MPs staged a walkout.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-parliament-monsoon-session-live-updates-live-pm-modi-meets-ministers-to-chalk-strategy-624066">Indian Parliament monsoon session | PM Modi says, 'Some trying to tarnish our image, but world knows the truth'</a>&nbsp;</strong><br />
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The prime minister said that the government will continue its hard work with planning and will usher in new reforms as per the need and all the efforts will be made for good performance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will be the third-largest economy," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "Their (I.N.D.I.A. alliance) trouble is such that they had to take the support of NDA to keep themselves alive. But, out of habit, the arrogance of 'I' doesn't leave them alone. That is why, they inserted two 'I's of arrogance in NDA. First 'I' - the arrogance of 26 parties and the second 'I' - the arrogance of one family. They stole NDA too. They also broke up India –&nbsp;into I.N.D.I.A."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi also attacked the opposition parties for not letting discussion take place on a number of bills related to the country's development, saying they have shown that 'dal' (party) is bigger than 'desh' (country) for them. "You have betrayed the people," he said.</p>

<p>Noting that the people of the country have repeatedly reposed their faith in his government, Modi expressed his thanks to them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further noted that he wanted to express his sympathy and offer condolences to the opposition because a few days ago they performed the "last rites of UPA in Bengaluru".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes on I.N.D.I.A. alliance; says, "Their trouble is such that they had to take the support of NDA to keep themselves alive. But, out of habit, the arrogance of 'I' doesn't leave them alone. That is why, they inserted two 'I's of arrogance… <a href="https://t.co/3WP8SfXZ4i">pic.twitter.com/3WP8SfXZ4i</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1689620296129708032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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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 says, "When we say that we will make our economy the third largest economy in the next 5 years, a responsible opposition would have asked questions as to how will we do it but 'Yeh bhi mujhe hi sikhana pada raha hai'. <a href="https://t.co/xaxEocauHN">pic.twitter.com/xaxEocauHN</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1689615038049587200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-independence-the-year-1992-and-how-it-changed-india-624246">India Independence: The year 1992 and how it changed India</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi slams Congress&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Slamming the Congress, he said that the party adopted a flag similar to the national tricolour to add credibility, they also "stole" Gandhi's surname for electoral gains. Nothing is Congress' own, from its poll symbol to ideas, everything has been borrowed from someone else, he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that the Opposition has an 'ostrich-like approach', and he thanks&nbsp;its leaders for wearing black in the House as I see that as '<em>kaala teeka' </em>that saves us from ill omen<em>.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>PM Modi said that the Congress and its friends have a history of doubting India's "capabilities and prowess".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharpening the attack, Modi said that "Congress and its friends used to trust Pakistan when it disowned acts of attacking our borders, sending terrorists into our territory" and added that the Congress party still "takes pride in amplifying false propaganda of any global survey tarnishing India's image".&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No confidence motion defeated</strong></h2>

<p>The motion was defeated in a voice vote called by the speaker of the lower house Om Birla, television images showed, shortly after opposition MPs including Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi walked out of the House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 10) took a harsh dig at the opposition while addressing the Lok Sabha in his reply to the no-trust motion.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 10) took a harsh dig at the opposition while addressing the Lok Sabha in his reply to the no-trust motion. The no-confidence motion in parliament was defeated as the opposition staged a walkout during a fiery speech by PM Modi. The PM exuded confidence for the 2024 general elections and said, "The no-confidence motion has been always lucky for us; this one also will ensure that we will return with a record-breaking mandate in next year's general election." Taking a dig at the opposition, he said, "The country trusts that when you will bring the no confidence motion in 2028, the country would be among the top three economies of the world." He said that the Opposition brought the no-confidence motion in 2018 also, and added that this time, the floor test was more for the I.N.D.I.A. alliance than the government, and was proven right. While PM Modi spoke, Congress MPs Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi left parliament as the opposition MPs staged a walkout. Also read: Indian Parliament monsoon session | PM Modi says, 'Some trying to tarnish our image, but world knows the truth' The prime minister said that the government will continue its hard work with planning and will usher in new reforms as per the need and all the efforts will be made for good performance. "We will be the third-largest economy," he said. He said, "Their (I.N.D.I.A. alliance) trouble is such that they had to take the support of NDA to keep themselves alive. But, out of habit, the arrogance of 'I' doesn't leave them alone. That is why, they inserted two 'I's of arrogance in NDA. First 'I' - the arrogance of 26 parties and the second 'I' - the arrogance of one family. They stole NDA too. They also broke up India – into I.N.D.I.A." Modi also attacked the opposition parties for not letting discussion take place on a number of bills related to the country's development, saying they have shown that 'dal' (party) is bigger than 'desh' (country) for them. "You have betrayed the people," he said. Noting that the people of the country have repeatedly reposed their faith in his government, Modi expressed his thanks to them. He further noted that he wanted to express his sympathy and offer condolences to the opposition because a few days ago they performed the "last rites of UPA in Bengaluru". #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes on I.N.D.I.A. alliance; says, "Their trouble is such that they had to take the support of NDA to keep themselves alive. But, out of habit, the arrogance of 'I' doesn't leave them alone. That is why, they inserted two 'I's of arrogance… pic.twitter.com/3WP8SfXZ4i — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2023 × #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi says, "When we say that we will make our economy the third largest economy in the next 5 years, a responsible opposition would have asked questions as to how will we do it but 'Yeh bhi mujhe hi sikhana pada raha hai'. pic.twitter.com/xaxEocauHN — ANI (@ANI) August 10, 2023 × Also read: India Independence: The year 1992 and how it changed India PM Modi slams Congress Slamming the Congress, he said that the party adopted a flag similar to the national tricolour to add credibility, they also "stole" Gandhi's surname for electoral gains. Nothing is Congress' own, from its poll symbol to ideas, everything has been borrowed from someone else, he added. He said that the Opposition has an 'ostrich-like approach', and he thanks its leaders for wearing black in the House as I see that as 'kaala teeka' that saves us from ill omen. PM Modi said that the Congress and its friends have a history of doubting India's "capabilities and prowess". Sharpening the attack, Modi said that "Congress and its friends used to trust Pakistan when it disowned acts of attacking our borders, sending terrorists into our territory" and added that the Congress party still "takes pride in amplifying false propaganda of any global survey tarnishing India's image". No confidence motion defeated The motion was defeated in a voice vote called by the speaker of the lower house Om Birla, television images showed, shortly after opposition MPs including Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi walked out of the House. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: No-confidence motion defeated; PM Modi exudes 'confidence' of 2024 win, slams I.N.D.I.A. alliance

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