<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Nodi, on Saturday, August 5, congratulated the Indian Women’s Compound Team for winning their maiden gold medal in the ongoing World Archery Championships in Berlin. PM Modi lauded the trio of Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Aditi Swami and Parneet Kaur, who, on Friday, finished at the first spot by beating Mexico in the final.</p>

<p>Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote it was a proud moment for the compound team and India and congratulated them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A proud moment for India as our exceptional compound Women's Team brings home India's first-ever gold medal in the World Archery Championship held in Berlin. Congratulations to our champions,” PM Modi wrote on Twitter.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A proud moment for India as our exceptional compound Women's Team brings home India's first-ever gold medal in the World Archery Championship held in Berlin. Congratulations to our champions! Their hard work and dedication have led to this outstanding outcome. <a href="https://t.co/oT8teX1bod">pic.twitter.com/oT8teX1bod</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1687670869160812544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>In the final against the Mexican trio of Dafne Quintero, Ana Sofia Hernandez Jeon, and Andrea Becerra, the Indian came up with their A-Game, and after a pulsating contest, stood tall in the end with a score of 235-229.</p>

<p>Although the conditions were tougher in Berlin, the Indian archers held their nerves and came on top. In the semis against the Colombian Team led by Sara Lopez, who also possessed a challenge to the Indians, the trio beat them in a close match with a score reading 220-216.</p>

<p>Earlier, during the knockouts (in pre-quarters and quarters against Turkey and Chinese Taipei, respectively), the Indian team fought hard for the win. With Paris Games about to begin in less than one year, India’s winning run in this discipline will raise medal expectations at 2024 Olympics.</p>

<p>Also, with this first-ever gold medal win in the World Archery Championship, the medal tally increased to 12 (including nine silvers and two bronze medals earlier).&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Jyothi stands tall among all</h2>

<p>Jyothi Surekha Vennam of the three also unlocked a unique milestone for herself with this gold medal crown. She now has seven medals to her name in this competition (including four bronze and two silver earlier), and with this now completed a Grand Slam of medals in the World Archery Championship.</p>

<p>In the Men’s category, the Indian trio of Abhishek Verma, Ojas Deotale, and Prathamesh Jawkar got knocked out in the Quarters after a 230-235 loss at the hands of the Netherlands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in the recurve category, both Men’s and Women’s teams lost their quarterfinal matches against South Korea (1-5) and the Dutch (2-6), respectively.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Nodi, on Saturday, August 5, congratulated the Indian Women’s Compound Team for winning their maiden gold medal in the ongoing World Archery Championships in Berlin.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Nodi, on Saturday, August 5, congratulated the Indian Women’s Compound Team for winning their maiden gold medal in the ongoing World Archery Championships in Berlin. PM Modi lauded the trio of Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Aditi Swami and Parneet Kaur, who, on Friday, finished at the first spot by beating Mexico in the final. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote it was a proud moment for the compound team and India and congratulated them. "A proud moment for India as our exceptional compound Women's Team brings home India's first-ever gold medal in the World Archery Championship held in Berlin. Congratulations to our champions,” PM Modi wrote on Twitter. A proud moment for India as our exceptional compound Women's Team brings home India's first-ever gold medal in the World Archery Championship held in Berlin. Congratulations to our champions! Their hard work and dedication have led to this outstanding outcome. pic.twitter.com/oT8teX1bod — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 5, 2023 × In the final against the Mexican trio of Dafne Quintero, Ana Sofia Hernandez Jeon, and Andrea Becerra, the Indian came up with their A-Game, and after a pulsating contest, stood tall in the end with a score of 235-229. Although the conditions were tougher in Berlin, the Indian archers held their nerves and came on top. In the semis against the Colombian Team led by Sara Lopez, who also possessed a challenge to the Indians, the trio beat them in a close match with a score reading 220-216. Earlier, during the knockouts (in pre-quarters and quarters against Turkey and Chinese Taipei, respectively), the Indian team fought hard for the win. With Paris Games about to begin in less than one year, India’s winning run in this discipline will raise medal expectations at 2024 Olympics. Also, with this first-ever gold medal win in the World Archery Championship, the medal tally increased to 12 (including nine silvers and two bronze medals earlier). Jyothi stands tall among all Jyothi Surekha Vennam of the three also unlocked a unique milestone for herself with this gold medal crown. She now has seven medals to her name in this competition (including four bronze and two silver earlier), and with this now completed a Grand Slam of medals in the World Archery Championship. In the Men’s category, the Indian trio of Abhishek Verma, Ojas Deotale, and Prathamesh Jawkar got knocked out in the Quarters after a 230-235 loss at the hands of the Netherlands. Meanwhile, in the recurve category, both Men’s and Women’s teams lost their quarterfinal matches against South Korea (1-5) and the Dutch (2-6), respectively. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM Narendra Modi lauds Indian Women's Compound team for historic gold medal at World Archery Championship

<p>In a significant outcome of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Egypt in July, EgyptAir has launched a direct flight connecting the Egyptian capital&nbsp;Cairo&nbsp;with India's national&nbsp;capital New&nbsp;Delhi. The move comes as both nations focus on increasing connectivity and strengthening ties.</p>

<p>Speaking to WION, Egyptian Ambassador to India, Wael Hamed, emphasised the importance of the new flight route, stating, "The Honourable PM was in Cairo just little bit over six weeks ago, and a strategic agreement was signed between India and Egypt... and people-to-people contact is very important; therefore, the opening of this flight between Cairo and New Delhi is extremely important and brings substance to the agreement we signed."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-brutal-heatwave-egyptian-pm-announces-planned-power-cuts-other-measures-620065">Amid brutal heatwave, Egyptian PM announces planned power cuts, other measures</a></p>

<p>Ambassador Hamed also extended a warm invitation to Indian tourists to visit Egypt, highlighting the unique aspects the country has to offer. "Egypt is one of the most beautiful countries, not only is it beautiful but also offers something that no other country can offer in the world. We offer Ancient Egyptian civilisation, which is unique in the world. It is the biggest open museum in the world, so please do come and visit Egypt, and you will enjoy it," he added.</p>

<p>The newly launched Cairo-Delhi route will be served by EgyptAir's newly acquired A320Neo aircraft, offering a two-cabin service with 16 seats in business class and 126 seats in economy class. The flight will operate four times a week, departing from Cairo on Thursdays and Saturdays and departing from Delhi on Fridays and Sundays.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;'Relations between India and Egypt getting diversified', says Aly Houssam in a discussion with WION</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/relations-between-india-and-egypt-getting-diversified-says-aly-houssam-in-a-discussion-with-wion-592139/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>EgyptAir's Chairman and CEO, Capt. Mohamed Moussa expressed his excitement about the new route and its potential to strengthen ties between Egypt and India. He stated, "India indeed is an important nation and market focus. We are delighted to start flights from Cairo to Delhi, the second gateway apart from the existing operations to Mumbai. This will not only offer a new alternative for consumers for travel but further strengthen relations between Egypt and India and stimulate tourism, travel, and business between the two countries."</p>

<p>Amr Ali, EgyptAir's country manager for North and Eastern India, also expressed his enthusiasm for the new responsibility. "I am fortunate that our management has entrusted me with the responsibility to start and make the Cairo-Delhi route successful. India is the world's fastest-growing economy with enormous potential for travel and tourism. My endeavour will be to work along with travel trade partners in India," he said.</p>

<p>The expansion of EgyptAir's network and the opening of new routes, including the Cairo-Delhi flight, align with the directives of the Ministry of Civil Aviation to connect Egypt with various countries around the world through Hub Cairo.</p>

<p>Recently, EgyptAir added Dhaka, New Jersey, and Manchester to its network, further strengthening its global presence and offering improved travel options for passengers.&nbsp;With the launch of this direct flight, both Egypt and India are set to witness an increase in travel, business, and cultural exchanges, fostering even stronger ties between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-18="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-33="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


In a significant outcome of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Egypt in July, EgyptAir has launched a direct flight connecting the Egyptian capital Cairo with India's national capital New Delhi.

In a significant outcome of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Egypt in July, EgyptAir has launched a direct flight connecting the Egyptian capital Cairo with India's national capital New Delhi. The move comes as both nations focus on increasing connectivity and strengthening ties. Speaking to WION, Egyptian Ambassador to India, Wael Hamed, emphasised the importance of the new flight route, stating, "The Honourable PM was in Cairo just little bit over six weeks ago, and a strategic agreement was signed between India and Egypt... and people-to-people contact is very important; therefore, the opening of this flight between Cairo and New Delhi is extremely important and brings substance to the agreement we signed." ALSO READ | Amid brutal heatwave, Egyptian PM announces planned power cuts, other measures Ambassador Hamed also extended a warm invitation to Indian tourists to visit Egypt, highlighting the unique aspects the country has to offer. "Egypt is one of the most beautiful countries, not only is it beautiful but also offers something that no other country can offer in the world. We offer Ancient Egyptian civilisation, which is unique in the world. It is the biggest open museum in the world, so please do come and visit Egypt, and you will enjoy it," he added. The newly launched Cairo-Delhi route will be served by EgyptAir's newly acquired A320Neo aircraft, offering a two-cabin service with 16 seats in business class and 126 seats in economy class. The flight will operate four times a week, departing from Cairo on Thursdays and Saturdays and departing from Delhi on Fridays and Sundays. WATCH | 'Relations between India and Egypt getting diversified', says Aly Houssam in a discussion with WION EgyptAir's Chairman and CEO, Capt. Mohamed Moussa expressed his excitement about the new route and its potential to strengthen ties between Egypt and India. He stated, "India indeed is an important nation and market focus. We are delighted to start flights from Cairo to Delhi, the second gateway apart from the existing operations to Mumbai. This will not only offer a new alternative for consumers for travel but further strengthen relations between Egypt and India and stimulate tourism, travel, and business between the two countries." Amr Ali, EgyptAir's country manager for North and Eastern India, also expressed his enthusiasm for the new responsibility. "I am fortunate that our management has entrusted me with the responsibility to start and make the Cairo-Delhi route successful. India is the world's fastest-growing economy with enormous potential for travel and tourism. My endeavour will be to work along with travel trade partners in India," he said. The expansion of EgyptAir's network and the opening of new routes, including the Cairo-Delhi flight, align with the directives of the Ministry of Civil Aviation to connect Egypt with various countries around the world through Hub Cairo. Recently, EgyptAir added Dhaka, New Jersey, and Manchester to its network, further strengthening its global presence and offering improved travel options for passengers. With the launch of this direct flight, both Egypt and India are set to witness an increase in travel, business, and cultural exchanges, fostering even stronger ties between the two nations. 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

Direct Cairo-Delhi flight launched after PM Modi's Egypt visit

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 3) held a telephone conversation with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and confirmed in-person participation at the BRICS summit, scheduled later this month. Modi and Ramaphosa also spoke about regional and global issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official statement mentioned that the two leaders "positively assessed" the progress in bilateral cooperation, including in the context of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations being celebrated in 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the call, Ramaphosa invited PM Modi to the BRICS Summit, which is being hosted by South Africa on August 22-24 and briefed the Indian prime minister on the preparations for the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-closes-on-to-replace-russia-as-worlds-second-biggest-arms-exporter-621996">France catches up with Russia, set to replace it as world's second biggest arms exporter</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Pleased to speak with President <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CyrilRamaphosa</a>. Reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation as we celebrate 30th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. Look forward to participating in the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg later this month. <a href="https://twitter.com/PresidencyZA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PresidencyZA</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1687115034542182400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The invitation has been accepted by PM Modi, who also conveyed that he is looking forward to his visit to Johannesburg to participate in the summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government statement said that Ramaphosa conveyed his full support to India's initiatives as part of its ongoing G-20 Presidency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The South African president said that he looked forward to visiting India to attend the G-20 Summit. India will host a summit of its leaders in early September.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moroccan-internet-user-sentenced-to-5-years-in-prison-for-criticising-king-on-facebook-622018">Moroccan internet user sentenced to 5 years in prison for criticising the king on Facebook</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why Joe Biden is pushing for Saudi-Israel normalisation&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/why-joe-biden-is-pushing-for-saudi-israel-normalisation-622093/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>15th BRICS summit</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>This will be the fifteenth annual BRICS summit, which is an international relations conference attended by leaders of the five member states: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia recently said that the BRICS group of countries would be strengthened by adding new members, in its most explicit endorsement yet of the idea of expansion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moscow was commenting on a remark by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva that it was "extremely important" for Saudi Arabia to join BRICS, along with Argentina and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov recently told reporters: "Of course, we believe that in one form or another, the expansion of BRICS will contribute to the further development and strengthening of this organisation."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 3) held a telephone conversation with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and confirmed in-person participation at the BRICS summit, scheduled later this month.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (August 3) held a telephone conversation with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and confirmed in-person participation at the BRICS summit, scheduled later this month. Modi and Ramaphosa also spoke about regional and global issues of mutual interest. The official statement mentioned that the two leaders "positively assessed" the progress in bilateral cooperation, including in the context of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations being celebrated in 2023. During the call, Ramaphosa invited PM Modi to the BRICS Summit, which is being hosted by South Africa on August 22-24 and briefed the Indian prime minister on the preparations for the same. Also read: France catches up with Russia, set to replace it as world's second biggest arms exporter Pleased to speak with President @CyrilRamaphosa. Reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation as we celebrate 30th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. Look forward to participating in the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg later this month. @PresidencyZA — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 3, 2023 × The invitation has been accepted by PM Modi, who also conveyed that he is looking forward to his visit to Johannesburg to participate in the summit. The government statement said that Ramaphosa conveyed his full support to India's initiatives as part of its ongoing G-20 Presidency. The South African president said that he looked forward to visiting India to attend the G-20 Summit. India will host a summit of its leaders in early September. Also read: Moroccan internet user sentenced to 5 years in prison for criticising the king on Facebook Watch: Why Joe Biden is pushing for Saudi-Israel normalisation × 15th BRICS summit This will be the fifteenth annual BRICS summit, which is an international relations conference attended by leaders of the five member states: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Russia recently said that the BRICS group of countries would be strengthened by adding new members, in its most explicit endorsement yet of the idea of expansion. Moscow was commenting on a remark by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva that it was "extremely important" for Saudi Arabia to join BRICS, along with Argentina and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov recently told reporters: "Of course, we believe that in one form or another, the expansion of BRICS will contribute to the further development and strengthening of this organisation." (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 confirms PM Modi's in-person attendance at BRICS summit in South Africa

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a visit to Pune on August 1 to lay the foundation stone of various development projects, a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said on Sunday. As per the official statement, the PM will also be conferred with the Lokmanya Tilak National Award after the inauguration of various projects.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and deputy chief ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar will also be present at the function.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-leaves-earths-influence-after-18-days-in-orbit-next-stop-moon-621238">Chandrayaan-3 leaves Earth's influence after 17 days in orbit. Next stop: Moon</a></p>

<p>“At around 11 am, Prime Minister will perform Darshan and Pooja at Dagduesheth Mandir. At 11:45 am, he will be conferred Lokamanya Tilak National Award. Thereafter, at 12:45 pm, Prime Minister will flag off metro trains and inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various development projects,” the statement informed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is Lokmanya Tilak National Award?</strong></h2>

<p>The Lokmanya Tilak National Ward is conferred on people to honour the legacy of Indian independence activist, Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The award was constituted by Tilak Smarak Mandir Trust in 1983. It is given to people who have worked for the progress and development of the nation and whose contribution can only be looked upon as remarkable and extraordinary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-least-16-dead-several-feared-trapped-after-girder-launcher-crane-collapses-in-thane-621231">India: At least 16 dead, several feared trapped after girder launcher crane collapses in Thane</a></p>

<p>The award is presented every year on August 1, which is the death anniversary of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, also known as Lokmanya Tilak.</p>

<p>&nbsp;Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a passionate advocate for Indian self-rule (Swarajya) and played a crucial role in mobilising the masses.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi has been chosen as the 41st recipient of this award, which includes a memento and citation, in recognition of his exceptional leadership and his efforts in fostering a sense of patriotism among citizens, the trust says.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-demands-answers-over-delayed-fir-in-shocking-manipur-viral-video-case-621158">Supreme Court demands answers over delayed FIR in shocking Manipur viral video case</a></p>

<p>This award was previously bestowed to former Presidents Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma and Pranab Mukherjee; former PMs Indira Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Dr Manmohan Singh; businessmen NR Narayana Murthy and Cyrus Poonawala; and engineer E Sreedharan, among others.</p>

<p>Last year, the Lokmanya Tilak National Award was conferred upon senior scientist Tessy Thomas, popularly known as India's "missile woman."</p>

<p>She served as the project director for Agni-4 and Agni-5 missile systems, making significant contributions to the country's defence capabilities.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a visit to Pune on August 1 to lay the foundation stone of various development projects, a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a visit to Pune on August 1 to lay the foundation stone of various development projects, a release from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said on Sunday. As per the official statement, the PM will also be conferred with the Lokmanya Tilak National Award after the inauguration of various projects. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and deputy chief ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar will also be present at the function. Also Read | Chandrayaan-3 leaves Earth's influence after 17 days in orbit. Next stop: Moon “At around 11 am, Prime Minister will perform Darshan and Pooja at Dagduesheth Mandir. At 11:45 am, he will be conferred Lokamanya Tilak National Award. Thereafter, at 12:45 pm, Prime Minister will flag off metro trains and inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various development projects,” the statement informed. What is Lokmanya Tilak National Award? The Lokmanya Tilak National Ward is conferred on people to honour the legacy of Indian independence activist, Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The award was constituted by Tilak Smarak Mandir Trust in 1983. It is given to people who have worked for the progress and development of the nation and whose contribution can only be looked upon as remarkable and extraordinary. Also Read | India: At least 16 dead, several feared trapped after girder launcher crane collapses in Thane The award is presented every year on August 1, which is the death anniversary of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, also known as Lokmanya Tilak. Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a passionate advocate for Indian self-rule (Swarajya) and played a crucial role in mobilising the masses. PM Modi has been chosen as the 41st recipient of this award, which includes a memento and citation, in recognition of his exceptional leadership and his efforts in fostering a sense of patriotism among citizens, the trust says. Also Read | Supreme Court demands answers over delayed FIR in shocking Manipur viral video case This award was previously bestowed to former Presidents Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma and Pranab Mukherjee; former PMs Indira Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Dr Manmohan Singh; businessmen NR Narayana Murthy and Cyrus Poonawala; and engineer E Sreedharan, among others. Last year, the Lokmanya Tilak National Award was conferred upon senior scientist Tessy Thomas, popularly known as India's "missile woman." She served as the project director for Agni-4 and Agni-5 missile systems, making significant contributions to the country's defence capabilities. (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.

What is Lokmanya Tilak National Award? PM Modi conferred with the honour in Pune

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (July 27) said creating modern infrastructure in the western state of Rajasthan is a priority of the government as he addressed a rally in Sikar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi said that the government has taken decisions in the interest of farmers for nine years, and created new arrangements from seed to market for them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While comparing India with the neighbouring nation, PM Modi said that farmers in the nation get urea sacks for Rs 266 ($3.25), available in Pakistan for about Rs 800 ($9.76), Rs 720 ($8.79) in Bangladesh and Rs 2,100 ($25.63) in China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister said that the government will not allow farmers to suffer due to the price of urea. He said India can only develop when its villages do, and the government is working to provide villages with every facility available in cities.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition slams PM Modi's absence Parliament&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said that PM Modi is not speaking in Parliament and instead making political speeches in Rajasthan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The opposition wants PM Modi to speak on the raging issue of Manipur violence. Kharge said people have now become aware and will fight "this kind of politics".&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to the reporters, Kharge said: "Today, people have become aware and they will fight and continue to do so...This means you do not want to talk in Parliament - the temple of democracy, and want to give a political speech in Rajasthan while opening new medical colleges."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (July 27) said creating modern infrastructure in the western state of Rajasthan is a priority of the government as he addressed a rally in Sikar.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (July 27) said creating modern infrastructure in the western state of Rajasthan is a priority of the government as he addressed a rally in Sikar. PM Modi said that the government has taken decisions in the interest of farmers for nine years, and created new arrangements from seed to market for them. While comparing India with the neighbouring nation, PM Modi said that farmers in the nation get urea sacks for Rs 266 ($3.25), available in Pakistan for about Rs 800 ($9.76), Rs 720 ($8.79) in Bangladesh and Rs 2,100 ($25.63) in China. The Indian prime minister said that the government will not allow farmers to suffer due to the price of urea. He said India can only develop when its villages do, and the government is working to provide villages with every facility available in cities. Opposition slams PM Modi's absence Parliament Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said that PM Modi is not speaking in Parliament and instead making political speeches in Rajasthan. The opposition wants PM Modi to speak on the raging issue of Manipur violence. Kharge said people have now become aware and will fight "this kind of politics". While speaking to the reporters, Kharge said: "Today, people have become aware and they will fight and continue to do so...This means you do not want to talk in Parliament - the temple of democracy, and want to give a political speech in Rajasthan while opening new medical colleges." (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 Modi pats his govt's back for working towards farmer welfare in Rajasthan

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) 'Bharat Mandapam' in Delhi and vowed that in his third term as the leader of the country, India will be among the world's top three economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In my third term, India will be among the top three economies in the world...Yeh Modi ki guarantee hai (its a guarantee by Modi)," the prime minister said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Preparations are in full swing at India's capital New Delhi as the country prepares to host the G20 summit in September. The complex is the venue for the upcoming G20 leaders' meet and has been redeveloped at a cost of about ₹2,700 crore (Rs. 27 billion).</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-urges-india-to-remove-restrictions-on-rice-exports-over-global-inflation-concerns-619573">IMF urges India to remove restrictions on rice exports over global inflation concerns</a></p>

<p>Terming the complex a "gateway to global opportunities," the Indian PM honoured the Shramiks (workers) who "toiled to build the impressive IECC complex" in the Indian capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Seeing the hard work of every labourer brother and sister involved in the construction of 'Bharat Mandapam', the whole of India is amazed, astonished," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/smartphones-should-be-banned-from-classrooms-says-un-619541">Smartphones should be banned from classrooms, says UN report</a></p>

<p>The "modern and futuristic" complex is set to give a push to conference tourism in India as it will serve as an umbrella bringing together people from all over the world. It is reportedly India’s largest MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) complex.</p>

<p>A government release said, "The Convention Centre is developed as the centrepiece of the Pragati Maidan complex. It is a grand architectural marvel, designed to host large-scale international exhibitions, trade fairs, conventions, conferences, and other prestigious events. It is equipped with multiple meeting rooms, lounges, auditoriums, an amphitheatre and a business centre, making it capable of hosting a wide range of events."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Doksuri super typhoon to hit Chinese mainland this week | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/doksuri-super-typhoon-to-hit-chinese-mainland-this-week-wion-climate-tracker-619587/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>During his address at the inauguration event of the International Convention Centre-Bharat Mandapam, PM Modi said that 'Bharat Mandapam' is a moment of pride and happiness for every Indian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As July 26 marks the Kargil Divas, PM Modi also paid his tribute to "each and every hero who sacrificed his life in the Kargil war."</p>

<p>"Today, when we are celebrating Amrit Mahotsav on 75 years of independence, this 'Bharat Mandapam' is a beautiful gift given by us Indians to our democracy," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM takes a dig at opposition&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian PM also took potshots at the opposition saying, "Some people have a tendency to comment and stop good works. When 'Kartavya Path' was being built, many things were running on the front page of newspapers as breaking news. It was raised in courts as well, but when it was constructed, the same people said that it is good. I am sure the 'Toli' (opposition alliance) will also accept 'Bharat Mandapam' and it is also possible that they might come here to deliver a lecture in a seminar."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi to get&nbsp;world's largest museum</strong></h2>

<p>Indian prime minister also promised that the world's largest museum will be constructed in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In the last 5 years, 13.5 crore people have come out of poverty. International agencies are also saying that extreme poverty in India is on the verge of ending. This shows that the decisions and policies that have been made in the last 9 years, are taking the country in the right direction," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) 'Bharat Mandapam' in Delhi and vowed that in his third term as the leader of the country, India will be among the world's top three economies.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC) 'Bharat Mandapam' in Delhi and vowed that in his third term as the leader of the country, India will be among the world's top three economies. "In my third term, India will be among the top three economies in the world...Yeh Modi ki guarantee hai (its a guarantee by Modi)," the prime minister said. Preparations are in full swing at India's capital New Delhi as the country prepares to host the G20 summit in September. The complex is the venue for the upcoming G20 leaders' meet and has been redeveloped at a cost of about ₹2,700 crore (Rs. 27 billion). Also Read | IMF urges India to remove restrictions on rice exports over global inflation concerns Terming the complex a "gateway to global opportunities," the Indian PM honoured the Shramiks (workers) who "toiled to build the impressive IECC complex" in the Indian capital. "Seeing the hard work of every labourer brother and sister involved in the construction of 'Bharat Mandapam', the whole of India is amazed, astonished," PM Modi said. Also Read | Smartphones should be banned from classrooms, says UN report The "modern and futuristic" complex is set to give a push to conference tourism in India as it will serve as an umbrella bringing together people from all over the world. It is reportedly India’s largest MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) complex. A government release said, "The Convention Centre is developed as the centrepiece of the Pragati Maidan complex. It is a grand architectural marvel, designed to host large-scale international exhibitions, trade fairs, conventions, conferences, and other prestigious events. It is equipped with multiple meeting rooms, lounges, auditoriums, an amphitheatre and a business centre, making it capable of hosting a wide range of events." Watch | Doksuri super typhoon to hit Chinese mainland this week | WION Climate Tracker × During his address at the inauguration event of the International Convention Centre-Bharat Mandapam, PM Modi said that 'Bharat Mandapam' is a moment of pride and happiness for every Indian. As July 26 marks the Kargil Divas, PM Modi also paid his tribute to "each and every hero who sacrificed his life in the Kargil war." "Today, when we are celebrating Amrit Mahotsav on 75 years of independence, this 'Bharat Mandapam' is a beautiful gift given by us Indians to our democracy," PM Modi said. PM takes a dig at opposition The Indian PM also took potshots at the opposition saying, "Some people have a tendency to comment and stop good works. When 'Kartavya Path' was being built, many things were running on the front page of newspapers as breaking news. It was raised in courts as well, but when it was constructed, the same people said that it is good. I am sure the 'Toli' (opposition alliance) will also accept 'Bharat Mandapam' and it is also possible that they might come here to deliver a lecture in a seminar." Delhi to get world's largest museum Indian prime minister also promised that the world's largest museum will be constructed in Delhi. "In the last 5 years, 13.5 crore people have come out of poverty. International agencies are also saying that extreme poverty in India is on the verge of ending. This shows that the decisions and policies that have been made in the last 9 years, are taking the country in the right direction," 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. ×

'India to be in world's top 3 economies': PM Modi vows milestone in third term at IECC inauguration

<p>No Confidence Motion against the Indian government, which was moved by the Opposition, has been accepted by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday (July 26) on the ongoing Manipur issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gaurav Gogoi, the Congress's deputy leader in Lok Sabha submitted a notice for the No Confidence Motion and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) floor leader Nageshwar Rao submitted a separate notice to the Speaker.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The speaker of the lower house of parliament said, "I will discuss with the leaders of all parties and inform of you of an appropriate time to take this up for discussion."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modis-2018-prophecy-of-opposition-bringing-no-confidence-motion-goes-viral-619497">PM Modi's 2018 prophecy of opposition bringing no-confidence motion goes viral</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Lok Sabha was also adjourned till 2:00pm (IST) amid sloganeering by the Opposition MPs who were demanding PM Narendra Modi's presence in the House for discussion on Manipur violence. Rajya Sabha was also adjourned briefly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to reporters, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said, "The Prime Minister should make a statement on this (Manipur issue). Whatever is happening in Manipur, the opposition is unitedly raising this issue..."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened in No Confidence Motion?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>No Confidence Motion allows the opposition to challenge the government's majority on the House floor. If the government fails to do so, the administration must resign.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/deadlock-in-parliament-indian-opposition-parties-move-on-no-confidence-motion-619523/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The opposition alliance has been cornering the ruling government on the Manipur ethnic violence. Ever since the monsoon session of parliament began on July 20, the Mampir situation has dominated it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress MP K Suresh said, "I.N.D.I.A partners unanimously decide to move a no-confidence motion against the NDA government. The government, Home Minister and Defence Minister are saying that we're ready for the discussion in the House, but they are not making the atmosphere in the House for discussion."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Suresh also claimed that "we have enough numbers to move a no-confidence motion against the government" as he said PM Modi is not coming to the House and sitting every day in his chamber, meeting media and having BJP parliamentary party meetings.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


No Confidence Motion against the Indian government, which was moved by the Opposition, has been accepted by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday (July 26) on the ongoing Manipur issue.

No Confidence Motion against the Indian government, which was moved by the Opposition, has been accepted by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday (July 26) on the ongoing Manipur issue. Gaurav Gogoi, the Congress's deputy leader in Lok Sabha submitted a notice for the No Confidence Motion and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) floor leader Nageshwar Rao submitted a separate notice to the Speaker. The speaker of the lower house of parliament said, "I will discuss with the leaders of all parties and inform of you of an appropriate time to take this up for discussion." Also read: PM Modi's 2018 prophecy of opposition bringing no-confidence motion goes viral Lok Sabha was also adjourned till 2:00pm (IST) amid sloganeering by the Opposition MPs who were demanding PM Narendra Modi's presence in the House for discussion on Manipur violence. Rajya Sabha was also adjourned briefly. While speaking to reporters, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said, "The Prime Minister should make a statement on this (Manipur issue). Whatever is happening in Manipur, the opposition is unitedly raising this issue..." What happened in No Confidence Motion? No Confidence Motion allows the opposition to challenge the government's majority on the House floor. If the government fails to do so, the administration must resign. Watch this report: × The opposition alliance has been cornering the ruling government on the Manipur ethnic violence. Ever since the monsoon session of parliament began on July 20, the Mampir situation has dominated it. Congress MP K Suresh said, "I.N.D.I.A partners unanimously decide to move a no-confidence motion against the NDA government. The government, Home Minister and Defence Minister are saying that we're ready for the discussion in the House, but they are not making the atmosphere in the House for discussion." Suresh also claimed that "we have enough numbers to move a no-confidence motion against the government" as he said PM Modi is not coming to the House and sitting every day in his chamber, meeting media and having BJP parliamentary party meetings. (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: Trust vote against Modi govt accepted by Lok Sabha speaker

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (July 25) launched a scathing attack on the newly-formed coalition of major opposition parties under the ‘INDIA’ umbrella.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While saying that Indian opposition was “directionless”, PM Modi reportedly cited the Islamist terrorist group ‘Indian Mujahideen’ to attack the name ‘INDIA’ that the country’s 26 major opposition parties gave to their alliance in a key meeting last week.</p>

<p>The so-called INDIA coalition is an acronym for Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance.</p>

<p>"They keep praising themselves for the name INDIA. Indian National Congress,&nbsp;East India Company,&nbsp;Indian Mujahideen,&nbsp;Popular Front of India - these are also INDIA. Just using the name INDIA does not mean anything," top BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad quoted the PM as saying.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Manipur video case: Juvenile among 7 held over Manipur incident, Opposition demands debate</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/manipur-video-case-juvenile-among-7-held-over-manipur-incident-opposition-demands-debate-619141/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"As the Britishers came and named themselves East India Company, in the same way, the opposition is presenting itself in the name of India,” the PM said.</p>

<p>PM Modi gave these remarks at BJP’s parliamentary party meeting held Tuesday amid the raging demand from the opposition to hold a debate over Manipur ethnic violence in parliament.</p>

<p>The PM also added that the people cannot be misled just by using the country’s name.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition ‘defeated, tired and hopeless’</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian prime minister also said that the conduct of the opposition shows they have made up their minds to remain in the opposition. He described the opposition as "defeated, tired, hopeless, with a single-point agenda - opposing Modi".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-violence-in-manipur-over-700-myanmar-nationals-enter-indian-state-in-just-two-days-619129"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Amid violence in Manipur, over 700 Myanmar nationals enter Indian state in just two days</strong></a></p>

<p>PM Modi also expressed confidence that the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) will easily win the 2024 general elections with the people’s immense support.</p>

<h2><strong>Manipur row</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi’s attack on INDIA comes at a time when the monsoon session of the Indian Parliament is underway. Both houses of the Indian parliament have been adjourned repeatedly, halting the government’s plan to push key legislations.</p>

<p>INDIA alliance has been demanding PM Modi issue a detailed statement over Manipur violence in parliament.<br />
Members of Parliament (MPs) from the INDIA alliance said they will hold a meeting on Tuesday at the office of the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, to discuss further strategy over house proceedings.</p>

<p>Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh said their only demand from PM Modi was to release a statement on Manipur inside the parliament, adding that the protest will continue until their demands are met.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (July 25) launched a scathing attack on the newly-formed coalition of major opposition parties under the ‘INDIA’ umbrella.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday (July 25) launched a scathing attack on the newly-formed coalition of major opposition parties under the ‘INDIA’ umbrella. While saying that Indian opposition was “directionless”, PM Modi reportedly cited the Islamist terrorist group ‘Indian Mujahideen’ to attack the name ‘INDIA’ that the country’s 26 major opposition parties gave to their alliance in a key meeting last week. The so-called INDIA coalition is an acronym for Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance. "They keep praising themselves for the name INDIA. Indian National Congress, East India Company, Indian Mujahideen, Popular Front of India - these are also INDIA. Just using the name INDIA does not mean anything," top BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad quoted the PM as saying. Watch: Manipur video case: Juvenile among 7 held over Manipur incident, Opposition demands debate × "As the Britishers came and named themselves East India Company, in the same way, the opposition is presenting itself in the name of India,” the PM said. PM Modi gave these remarks at BJP’s parliamentary party meeting held Tuesday amid the raging demand from the opposition to hold a debate over Manipur ethnic violence in parliament. The PM also added that the people cannot be misled just by using the country’s name. Opposition ‘defeated, tired and hopeless’ The Indian prime minister also said that the conduct of the opposition shows they have made up their minds to remain in the opposition. He described the opposition as "defeated, tired, hopeless, with a single-point agenda - opposing Modi". Also read: Amid violence in Manipur, over 700 Myanmar nationals enter Indian state in just two days PM Modi also expressed confidence that the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) will easily win the 2024 general elections with the people’s immense support. Manipur row PM Modi’s attack on INDIA comes at a time when the monsoon session of the Indian Parliament is underway. Both houses of the Indian parliament have been adjourned repeatedly, halting the government’s plan to push key legislations. INDIA alliance has been demanding PM Modi issue a detailed statement over Manipur violence in parliament. Members of Parliament (MPs) from the INDIA alliance said they will hold a meeting on Tuesday at the office of the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, to discuss further strategy over house proceedings. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh said their only demand from PM Modi was to release a statement on Manipur inside the parliament, adding that the protest will continue until their demands are met. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Indian Mujahideen also has India in its name': PM Modi blasts ‘INDIA’ coalition

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of&nbsp;agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports.</p>

<p>Wickremesinghe, who is on a two-day visit to India, landed in New Delhi on Thursday (July 20). This is the first Indian trip of any senior Sri Lankan leader after the nation faced an unprecedented economic crisis last year.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> warmly welcomes President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> of Sri Lanka at the Hyderabad House ahead of the bilateral talks.<br />
<br />
An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing 🇮🇳-🇱🇰 ties, as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. <a href="https://t.co/Ee6kikEpjZ">pic.twitter.com/Ee6kikEpjZ</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682267009806110721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Financial assistance of USD 4 billion was extended by India to Sri Lanka, which included lines of credit for purchasing fuel and food last year when the country suffered an economic crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-kept-quiet-while-manipur-was-burning-opposition-slams-govt-617849">‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt</a></p>

<p>The Indian government had also provided guarantees to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to assist the country in securing a USD 2.9 billion bailout package.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delegation level talks led by PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> get underway.<br />
<br />
A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence &amp; security cooperation and people to people ties. <a href="https://t.co/x7irs8BPsw">pic.twitter.com/x7irs8BPsw</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682282468072914944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing India-Sri Lanka ties as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year," said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter, just before the two leaders began talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the tweets that followed, Bagchi said, "A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence &amp; security co-operation and people to people ties. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries."&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bolstering our ties with a close maritime partner.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> hold bilateral discussions.<br />
<br />
Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries. <a href="https://t.co/0RZpCXqyHR">pic.twitter.com/0RZpCXqyHR</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682273940763447296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Network-to-network agreements for UPI in Sri Lanka</strong></h2>

<p>India and Sri Lanka exchanged several agreements in the presence of Indian PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe in New Delhi. One of the agreements finalised was for&nbsp;network-to-network agreements for the acceptance of UPI in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the joint conference after the talks, PM Modi said, "We agree on the enhancement of air connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. To increase trade and travel by people, we have taken the decision to start passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanturai in Sri Lanka."</p>

<p>"Sri Lanka also has an important place in both India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision. Today we shared our views on bilateral, regional and international issues. We believe that the security interests and development of India and Sri Lanka are intertwined. The agreement signed to launch UPI in Sri Lanka, will increase Fintech connectivity," he further stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to meet PM Modi, to seek 'innocent passage' for fishermen</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lankan-president-ranil-wickremesinghe-to-meet-pm-modi-to-seek-innocent-passage-for-fishermen-617869/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>PM Modi, while talking about the issue of fishermen being faced by the two countries, said,"Today, we also discussed the issues related to the livelihood of fishermen. We agree that we should go ahead on the matter with a humane approach. We also spoke about reconstruction and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. President Wickremesinghe told me about his inclusive approach. We hope that the Sri Lankan Govt will fulfil the aspirations of Tamils and take forward the process for equality, justice and peace. We hope it will fulfil its commitment to the implementation of the 13th Amendment and Provincial Council Elections."</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said,&nbsp;"I have congratulated Prime Minister Modi on the great strides India continues to make under his leadership in economic infrastructure and technological progress in ensuring growth and prosperity for the people of India. We believe that India's growth will be beneficial to the neighbourhood and the Indian Ocean region."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have also appraised Prime Minister Modi of the extraordinary challenges that Sri Lanka has experienced in economic, social and political terms in the past year and of the reform measures I have spearheaded on a number of fronts in overcoming these challenges. I have conveyed to Prime Minister Modi and to the government and the people of India a profound appreciation for the solidarity and support rendered to Sri Lanka in what was undoubtedly the most challenging period in our modern history," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the high-level talks between the two top leaders, Wickremesinghe was called on by India's NSA Ajit Doval and security cooperation between the two nations was discussed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held talks with Wickremesinghe and discussed various bilateral issues.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-32="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports. Wickremesinghe, who is on a two-day visit to India, landed in New Delhi on Thursday (July 20). This is the first Indian trip of any senior Sri Lankan leader after the nation faced an unprecedented economic crisis last year. PM @narendramodi warmly welcomes President @RW_UNP of Sri Lanka at the Hyderabad House ahead of the bilateral talks. An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing 🇮🇳-🇱🇰 ties, as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. pic.twitter.com/Ee6kikEpjZ — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × Financial assistance of USD 4 billion was extended by India to Sri Lanka, which included lines of credit for purchasing fuel and food last year when the country suffered an economic crisis. ALSO READ | ‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt The Indian government had also provided guarantees to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to assist the country in securing a USD 2.9 billion bailout package. Delegation level talks led by PM @narendramodi and President @RW_UNP get underway. A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence & security cooperation and people to people ties. pic.twitter.com/x7irs8BPsw — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × "An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing India-Sri Lanka ties as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year," said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter, just before the two leaders began talks. In the tweets that followed, Bagchi said, "A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence & security co-operation and people to people ties. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries." Bolstering our ties with a close maritime partner. PM @narendramodi and President @RW_UNP hold bilateral discussions. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries. pic.twitter.com/0RZpCXqyHR — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × Network-to-network agreements for UPI in Sri Lanka India and Sri Lanka exchanged several agreements in the presence of Indian PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe in New Delhi. One of the agreements finalised was for network-to-network agreements for the acceptance of UPI in Sri Lanka. Speaking at the joint conference after the talks, PM Modi said, "We agree on the enhancement of air connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. To increase trade and travel by people, we have taken the decision to start passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanturai in Sri Lanka." "Sri Lanka also has an important place in both India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision. Today we shared our views on bilateral, regional and international issues. We believe that the security interests and development of India and Sri Lanka are intertwined. The agreement signed to launch UPI in Sri Lanka, will increase Fintech connectivity," he further stated. WATCH | Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to meet PM Modi, to seek 'innocent passage' for fishermen PM Modi, while talking about the issue of fishermen being faced by the two countries, said,"Today, we also discussed the issues related to the livelihood of fishermen. We agree that we should go ahead on the matter with a humane approach. We also spoke about reconstruction and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. President Wickremesinghe told me about his inclusive approach. We hope that the Sri Lankan Govt will fulfil the aspirations of Tamils and take forward the process for equality, justice and peace. We hope it will fulfil its commitment to the implementation of the 13th Amendment and Provincial Council Elections." Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said, "I have congratulated Prime Minister Modi on the great strides India continues to make under his leadership in economic infrastructure and technological progress in ensuring growth and prosperity for the people of India. We believe that India's growth will be beneficial to the neighbourhood and the Indian Ocean region." "I have also appraised Prime Minister Modi of the extraordinary challenges that Sri Lanka has experienced in economic, social and political terms in the past year and of the reform measures I have spearheaded on a number of fronts in overcoming these challenges. I have conveyed to Prime Minister Modi and to the government and the people of India a profound appreciation for the solidarity and support rendered to Sri Lanka in what was undoubtedly the most challenging period in our modern history," he added. Before the high-level talks between the two top leaders, Wickremesinghe was called on by India's NSA Ajit Doval and security cooperation between the two nations was discussed. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held talks with Wickremesinghe and discussed various bilateral issues. (With inputs from agencies) 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

India's UPI to power Sri Lanka's fintech connectivity amid island nation's economic revival

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while hitting out at the previous UPA government on Saturday (July 22), said that the banking sector was destroyed by them with “scams”, however, in his regime, it has restored its good financial health, and now the country is known for its strong banking sector.<br />
<br />
Speaking at a Rozgar Mela after distributing more than 70,000 appointment letters to newly inducted recruits virtually, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of those countries where the banking sector is considered to be the strongest but this was not the situation 9 years ago. Our banking sector has seen massive destruction during the previous government.”</p>

<h2><strong>'Phone banking scam broke the backbone of banking system'</strong></h2>

<p>He said that although the banking sector was “destroyed” by the previous regime, his government took corrective measures. He called the "phone banking" scam one of the biggest scams in the regime of the previou government which broke the banking system's back.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-kept-quiet-while-manipur-was-burning-opposition-slams-govt-617849">‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt</a></p>

<p>“Today, we are able to make digital transactions but 9 years ago, phone banking was not for 140 crore people. People who were close to a specific family used to call Banks and provided them loans worth thousands of crores and these loans were never repaid. This 'phone banking scam' was one of the biggest scams during the previous government,” he said.<br />
<br />
"Because of this 'phone banking scam' the backbone of the banking sector was broken. In 2014, we started reviving our banking sector. We strengthened the management of government banks in the country. We combined several small banks and created large banks. The government made a 'Bankruptcy Code' law so that if any bank is shut, they have the minimum loss possible,” the prime minister stated.</p>

<h2><strong>India to emerge as world's top three economies in few years: PM</strong></h2>

<p>Emphasising the importance of the next 25 years for the country, PM Modi said, “During the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav', when the country is working on the path of development, it is a great honour to get the opportunity to work as a government employee. The people of this country have taken the resolution to make India a developed country. The next 25 years are very important for India."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lankan President's Wickremesinghe visits India holds talks with India PM Modi</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lankan-presidents-wickremesinghe-visits-india-holds-talks-with-india-pm-modi-618203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"Today every expert is saying that in a few years, India will be in the world's top three economies. This means employment opportunities and citizen's per capita income will increase," he added.<br />
<br />
The government organised the Rozgar Mela in 44 locations across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<main>
<section>
<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-32="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>
</section>
</main>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while hitting out at the previous UPA government on Saturday (July 22), said that the banking sector was destroyed by them with “scams”, however, in his regime, it has restored its good financial health, and now the country is known for its strong banking sector.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while hitting out at the previous UPA government on Saturday (July 22), said that the banking sector was destroyed by them with “scams”, however, in his regime, it has restored its good financial health, and now the country is known for its strong banking sector. Speaking at a Rozgar Mela after distributing more than 70,000 appointment letters to newly inducted recruits virtually, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of those countries where the banking sector is considered to be the strongest but this was not the situation 9 years ago. Our banking sector has seen massive destruction during the previous government.” 'Phone banking scam broke the backbone of banking system' He said that although the banking sector was “destroyed” by the previous regime, his government took corrective measures. He called the "phone banking" scam one of the biggest scams in the regime of the previou government which broke the banking system's back. ALSO READ | ‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt “Today, we are able to make digital transactions but 9 years ago, phone banking was not for 140 crore people. People who were close to a specific family used to call Banks and provided them loans worth thousands of crores and these loans were never repaid. This 'phone banking scam' was one of the biggest scams during the previous government,” he said. "Because of this 'phone banking scam' the backbone of the banking sector was broken. In 2014, we started reviving our banking sector. We strengthened the management of government banks in the country. We combined several small banks and created large banks. The government made a 'Bankruptcy Code' law so that if any bank is shut, they have the minimum loss possible,” the prime minister stated. India to emerge as world's top three economies in few years: PM Emphasising the importance of the next 25 years for the country, PM Modi said, “During the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav', when the country is working on the path of development, it is a great honour to get the opportunity to work as a government employee. The people of this country have taken the resolution to make India a developed country. The next 25 years are very important for India." WATCH | Sri Lankan President's Wickremesinghe visits India holds talks with India PM Modi "Today every expert is saying that in a few years, India will be in the world's top three economies. This means employment opportunities and citizen's per capita income will increase," he added. The government organised the Rozgar Mela in 44 locations across the country. (With inputs from agencies) 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

PM Modi hails India's banking sector as among strongest in world

<p>There was pandemonium during the opening session of the Parliament’s monsoon session on Thursday (July 20) when the debate opened about the Manipur crisis.</p>

<p>Minutes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first remarks over the violence, condemning the horrific incident of two women from Kuki tribe being paraded naked, the opposition tore into the government, with the Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge leading the charge.</p>

<p>Kharge questioned Modi’s “silence” on the violence that gripped India’s northeastern state since the last two months, saying that the prime minister was busy campaigning for elections and completely forgot the northeastern state.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi kept mum: Kharge&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>“The prime minister is silent and he has visited several countries including France, Egypt and others. He is silent on Manipur, he could have called a meeting on Manipur but it seems he has forgotten it," Kharge said.</p>

<p>“Manipur is burning, women are raped, naked, paraded, and horrific violence is taking place. But the PM kept quiet for so long until today (July 20)…he only gave a statement outside the Parliament,” Kharge said while addressing the Rajya Sabha.</p>

<p>The Congress leader said that while people were being robbed and women being gang-raped, Modi forgot Manipur.</p>

<p>"He has time for calling meeting of 38 parties. He could have gone to Manipur as he has adequate security arrangements, whereas Rahul Gandhi has gone without any such facilities."</p>

<p>"He (Modi) is roaming for election campaigning for last 80 days. Do campaigning but he is ignoring the Manipur. He should have sorted out the issue but he is not interested in that and he wants such situation to prevail," the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha said</p>

<h2><strong>Parliament adjourned</strong></h2>

<p>The session began with a ruckus, forcing both the Houses of the Parliament to be adjourned for the day.</p>

<p>Several opposition leaders were shouting slogans like ‘Manipur Manipur’ and ‘Manipur is burning’ as the Lok Sabha assembled at 2 pm.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cannot-be-forgiven-modi-reacts-to-video-of-manipur-women-paraded-naked-two-arrested-617684">'Cannot be forgiven': Modi reacts to video of Manipur women paraded naked, two arrested; top court takes note</a></p>

<p>On Wednesday, the video of the two women being paraded naked went viral on social media, sparking massive criticism.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-women-paraded-naked-sexually-assaulted-in-violence-hit-manipur-state-video-sparks-outrage-617602">India: Two women paraded naked, sexually assaulted in violence-hit Manipur, video sparks outrage</a></p>

<p>While the government assured that the accused would be punished, the Indian Supreme Court warned that if the state and central governments fail to uphold law and order, then it would be forced to take action.</p>

<h2><strong>Take action otherwise we'll step in: CJI tells government</strong></h2>

<p>India's Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance of the matter and sought response&nbsp;from the state and Centre. Terming the incident as "grossest of constitutional abuse", Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud&nbsp;said that if the government does not act then the court will.<br />
<br />
"We will give a little time for government to take action otherwise we will step in," the CJI said.<br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


There was pandemonium during the opening session of the Parliament’s monsoon session on Thursday (July 20) when the debate opened about the Manipur crisis. Minutes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first remarks over the violence, condemning the horrific incident of two women from Kuki tribe being paraded naked, the opposition tore into the government, with the Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge leading the charge.

There was pandemonium during the opening session of the Parliament’s monsoon session on Thursday (July 20) when the debate opened about the Manipur crisis. Minutes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first remarks over the violence, condemning the horrific incident of two women from Kuki tribe being paraded naked, the opposition tore into the government, with the Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge leading the charge. Kharge questioned Modi’s “silence” on the violence that gripped India’s northeastern state since the last two months, saying that the prime minister was busy campaigning for elections and completely forgot the northeastern state. Modi kept mum: Kharge “The prime minister is silent and he has visited several countries including France, Egypt and others. He is silent on Manipur, he could have called a meeting on Manipur but it seems he has forgotten it," Kharge said. “Manipur is burning, women are raped, naked, paraded, and horrific violence is taking place. But the PM kept quiet for so long until today (July 20)…he only gave a statement outside the Parliament,” Kharge said while addressing the Rajya Sabha. The Congress leader said that while people were being robbed and women being gang-raped, Modi forgot Manipur. "He has time for calling meeting of 38 parties. He could have gone to Manipur as he has adequate security arrangements, whereas Rahul Gandhi has gone without any such facilities." "He (Modi) is roaming for election campaigning for last 80 days. Do campaigning but he is ignoring the Manipur. He should have sorted out the issue but he is not interested in that and he wants such situation to prevail," the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha said Parliament adjourned The session began with a ruckus, forcing both the Houses of the Parliament to be adjourned for the day. Several opposition leaders were shouting slogans like ‘Manipur Manipur’ and ‘Manipur is burning’ as the Lok Sabha assembled at 2 pm. Also read | 'Cannot be forgiven': Modi reacts to video of Manipur women paraded naked, two arrested; top court takes note On Wednesday, the video of the two women being paraded naked went viral on social media, sparking massive criticism. Also read | India: Two women paraded naked, sexually assaulted in violence-hit Manipur, video sparks outrage While the government assured that the accused would be punished, the Indian Supreme Court warned that if the state and central governments fail to uphold law and order, then it would be forced to take action. Take action otherwise we'll step in: CJI tells government India's Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance of the matter and sought response from the state and Centre. Terming the incident as "grossest of constitutional abuse", Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said that if the government does not act then the court will. "We will give a little time for government to take action otherwise we will step in," the CJI said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt

<p>Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting feels South African pacer Anrich Nortje is just a couple of spells away from being match ready and expressed optimism over his availability for their next IPL game against Lucknow Super Giants on April 7.</p>

<p>Nortje has been out of competitive cricket since last November's T20 World Cup due to a back and hip injury.</p>

<p>"Nortje bowled 100% this morning (Saturday) in the warm-ups. He has to get through another maybe four or five-over spell at 100% capacity and then I think if he gets clearance from Cricket South Africa, he should be right to go.</p>

<p>"We have got a few more days before our next game, so hopefully he is available for selection for that one," Ponting said at the virtual post-match press conference after losing by 14 runs against Gujarat Titans here on Saturday night.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-ms-dhoni-three-sixes-away-from-joining-virat-kohi-in-t20-elite-list-467956">IPL 2022: MS Dhoni three sixes away from joining Virat Kohi in T20 elite list</a></p>

<p>Asked about the availability of Australian duo of David Warner and Mitchell Marsh, who is nursing a hip injury, Ponting said: "David Warner has arrived in Mumbai. He left early yesterday morning I believe, so he should be there when we get back to Mumbai tonight.<br />
<br />
"Mitchell Marsh has been in Mumbai for a few days, obviously getting his quarantine done. I think he might be out of quarantine tomorrow actually," he said.</p>

<p>"We are hoping that he (Marsh) is going to be available for the game on 10th (against Kolkata Knight Riders). He picked up that slight hip flexor strain in Pakistan. So we need to get a lot of treatment work into him and obviously a few good training sessions before he is available for selection.</p>

<p>"But fingers crossed, Davey should be there for the next game and Mitch Marsh for the game after."</p>

<p>DC coach said the 172-run target was a chaseable one but early wickets hurt their cause against Titans.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-chris-jordan-rajvardhan-hangargekar-to-feature-csks-predicted-playing-xi-for-punjab-kings-clash-467936">IPL 2022: Chris Jordan, Rajvardhan Hangargekar to feature? CSK's predicted playing XI for Punjab Kings clash</a></p>

<p>Chasing, DC were reduced to 34 for three inside five overs by Titans at the MCA Stadium.</p>

<p>"On this wicket, on this ground, we thought it was a very, very chaseable total," Ponting said.</p>

<p>"Unfortunately for us, for the second game in succession we were behind the eight-ball early. There were a few too many quite soft dismissals from our batsmen tonight.</p>

<p>"If you are losing three wickets in the powerplay, it's really hard to win games from there. We know that, the stats say that, they have said that right through the history of T20 cricket. That's certainly one area that we got to get better at, getting through that powerplay. None or one down would be a nice start to a run chase."</p>

<p>The loss of early wickets, notwithstanding, DC were in great position to chase down the target, needing 54 runs off the last six overs with skipper Rishabh Pant and Rovman Powell at the crease.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-chennai-super-kings-vs-punjab-kings-head-to-head-record-trivia-stats-and-squads-467942">IPL 2022, Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings: Head-to-head record, trivia, stats and squads</a></p>

<p>"There probably was a little bit of panic. At no stage did the run rate go out of hand and that's what probably makes it a more disappointing loss than it probably looks on the scoreboard," Ponting said.</p>

<p>"We had Rishabh in the middle of a really good innings. Rovman Powell had just gone out. If those two had been out to bat together for two-three more overs, I think we would have won the game. But we were not good enough to do it."</p>

<p>Titans fast bowler Lockie Ferguson, who returned with match-winning figures of 4 for 28, said his focus was only on bowling in the right areas.</p>

<p>"There was little bit of nip in the pitch. My job was pretty simple to bowl in the right areas and try to find the nip off the pitch," he said.</p>


Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting feels South African pacer Anrich Nortje is just a couple of spells away from being match ready and expressed optimism over his availability for their next IPL game against Lucknow Super Giants on April 7.

Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting feels South African pacer Anrich Nortje is just a couple of spells away from being match ready and expressed optimism over his availability for their next IPL game against Lucknow Super Giants on April 7. Nortje has been out of competitive cricket since last November's T20 World Cup due to a back and hip injury. "Nortje bowled 100% this morning (Saturday) in the warm-ups. He has to get through another maybe four or five-over spell at 100% capacity and then I think if he gets clearance from Cricket South Africa, he should be right to go. "We have got a few more days before our next game, so hopefully he is available for selection for that one," Ponting said at the virtual post-match press conference after losing by 14 runs against Gujarat Titans here on Saturday night. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: MS Dhoni three sixes away from joining Virat Kohi in T20 elite list Asked about the availability of Australian duo of David Warner and Mitchell Marsh, who is nursing a hip injury, Ponting said: "David Warner has arrived in Mumbai. He left early yesterday morning I believe, so he should be there when we get back to Mumbai tonight. "Mitchell Marsh has been in Mumbai for a few days, obviously getting his quarantine done. I think he might be out of quarantine tomorrow actually," he said. "We are hoping that he (Marsh) is going to be available for the game on 10th (against Kolkata Knight Riders). He picked up that slight hip flexor strain in Pakistan. So we need to get a lot of treatment work into him and obviously a few good training sessions before he is available for selection. "But fingers crossed, Davey should be there for the next game and Mitch Marsh for the game after." DC coach said the 172-run target was a chaseable one but early wickets hurt their cause against Titans. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Chris Jordan, Rajvardhan Hangargekar to feature? CSK's predicted playing XI for Punjab Kings clash Chasing, DC were reduced to 34 for three inside five overs by Titans at the MCA Stadium. "On this wicket, on this ground, we thought it was a very, very chaseable total," Ponting said. "Unfortunately for us, for the second game in succession we were behind the eight-ball early. There were a few too many quite soft dismissals from our batsmen tonight. "If you are losing three wickets in the powerplay, it's really hard to win games from there. We know that, the stats say that, they have said that right through the history of T20 cricket. That's certainly one area that we got to get better at, getting through that powerplay. None or one down would be a nice start to a run chase." The loss of early wickets, notwithstanding, DC were in great position to chase down the target, needing 54 runs off the last six overs with skipper Rishabh Pant and Rovman Powell at the crease. ALSO READ: IPL 2022, Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings: Head-to-head record, trivia, stats and squads "There probably was a little bit of panic. At no stage did the run rate go out of hand and that's what probably makes it a more disappointing loss than it probably looks on the scoreboard," Ponting said. "We had Rishabh in the middle of a really good innings. Rovman Powell had just gone out. If those two had been out to bat together for two-three more overs, I think we would have won the game. But we were not good enough to do it." Titans fast bowler Lockie Ferguson, who returned with match-winning figures of 4 for 28, said his focus was only on bowling in the right areas. "There was little bit of nip in the pitch. My job was pretty simple to bowl in the right areas and try to find the nip off the pitch," he said.

'Cannot be forgiven': Modi reacts to video of Manipur women paraded naked, two arrested; top court takes note

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid5z5b3I82XhoH" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid5z5b3I82XhoH" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>With less than a year to go for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the battle lines have been drawn between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition parties. On Tuesday (July 18), during the mega gathering of 26 parties in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru, the opposition leaders decided to name their new coalition as Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, a clever play on the acronym that reads INDIA.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Earlier, we were UPA and now all the 26 parties have given a name to the opposition and that is – Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Everybody has agreed upon this, and the resolution for the name was passed unanimously," said Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, adding that "well begun" was "half done".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Alliance borne out of political conveniences</strong></h2>

<p>The alliance, borne out of political conveniences as well as desperation is possibly the last-ditch attempt by the opposition to cobble together a grouping that can halt the charging juggernaut of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the last two general elections, the NDA, led by PM Modi has decimated the opposition, rendering the Indian parliament devoid of a challenger that can put the government in dock or disrupt proceedings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alliance experiment is delicate — one that will require extreme precision from all opposition parties to pull through. The joint opposition, in its draft agenda, has talked about setting up a committee for drafting the common minimum programme and&nbsp; communication&nbsp; points - the foundation to build upon. Additionally, the alliance is set to discuss seat sharing on a state-to-state basis during its next gathering, set to take place in Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Can opposition get over the seat-sharing hurdle?</strong></h2>

<p>The seat-sharing formula is the decisive point where most experts feel the alliance will be tested to the hilt. Would West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee be on board with Congress and Left parties contesting elections in the state? Would Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal allow Congress to compete in the capital once again and divide the votes? These are a few of the burning questions that most political pundits and voters are actively seeking answers to.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If a consensus is not found on the issue, the alliance might be dead-on-arrival. However, in the fortunate circumstance that middle ground is found, another challenge quickly stares down the barrel - who will be the prime ministerial candidate?</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nda-vs-india-bjp-opposition-parties-names-their-alliance-india-617061" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Who will spar against PM Modi?</strong></h2>

<p>If the opposition believes that it will be able to win against PM Narendra Modi without a credible and powerful face squaring up against him, the battle could be over before it begins. No matter how the narrative is turned, India and Bharat, still vote for a face and Modi has been a darling of the middle class of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The truth of the matter is that PM Modi and his gargantuan stature dwarfs most political leaders in India. There are a handful of leaders in the opposition that can go toe-to-toe against him. Kharge has pointed out Congress is not interested in “either power or the prime ministerial post" but if the push comes to shove, will Rahul Gandhi be projected as the alternative? And if Congress has its way, how will the other partners react to it?&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/we-have-decided-to-fight-elections-together-says-nitish-kumar-after-opposition-meet-608017"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;We have decided to fight elections together', says Nitish Kumar after opposition meet</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/we-have-decided-to-fight-elections-together-says-nitish-kumar-after-opposition-meet-608017/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/here-to-save-democracy-opposition-parties-convene-in-bengaluru-for-mega-meeting-616402#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>Foreshadowing the fissures?</strong></h2>

<p>Despite Kharge claiming that the opposition front was off to a solid start after rechristening itself, statements that might foreshadow the end of the alliance have started doing the rounds of the internet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Congress claimed it was Rahul Gandhi who coined the&nbsp;name of the&nbsp;new alliance, TMC leaders said it was their supremo Mamata Banerjee who engineered the name. Similarly, AAP and other coalition partners went ahead and attempted to quietly gobble up the credit pie.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the hunger for credit is so evident at the first achievement, it looks highly improbable how the coalition will function when it will be up against the well-oiled election machinery of BJP-led NDA led by the astute Amit Shah.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/38-vs-26-ruling-nda-and-opposition-parties-hold-meetings-to-assert-dominance-616974" target="_blank"><strong>Also read: 38 vs 26: India's ruling NDA and opposition parties hold meetings to assert dominance</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>The quest for alternative&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>It is not the first instance when the opposition has posited banding together to take on the ruling power. Ever since the emergence of coalition governments in the late 90s and early 2000s, the opposition parties, bar Congress and BJP have tried to come up with the idea of a strong 'Third Front'. The idea was to band all the regional parties in one big basket and go hammer and tongs against the established players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The idea looked decent, some might say, brilliant on paper but never materialised in reality. The 'Third Front' propped up before every election but the final outline always remained blurry, disjointed and in the end, a failed exercise.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


With less than a year to go for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the battle lines have been drawn between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition parties.

With less than a year to go for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the battle lines have been drawn between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition parties. On Tuesday (July 18), during the mega gathering of 26 parties in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru, the opposition leaders decided to name their new coalition as Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, a clever play on the acronym that reads INDIA. "Earlier, we were UPA and now all the 26 parties have given a name to the opposition and that is – Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Everybody has agreed upon this, and the resolution for the name was passed unanimously," said Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, adding that "well begun" was "half done". Alliance borne out of political conveniences The alliance, borne out of political conveniences as well as desperation is possibly the last-ditch attempt by the opposition to cobble together a grouping that can halt the charging juggernaut of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the last two general elections, the NDA, led by PM Modi has decimated the opposition, rendering the Indian parliament devoid of a challenger that can put the government in dock or disrupt proceedings. The alliance experiment is delicate — one that will require extreme precision from all opposition parties to pull through. The joint opposition, in its draft agenda, has talked about setting up a committee for drafting the common minimum programme and communication points - the foundation to build upon. Additionally, the alliance is set to discuss seat sharing on a state-to-state basis during its next gathering, set to take place in Mumbai. Can opposition get over the seat-sharing hurdle? The seat-sharing formula is the decisive point where most experts feel the alliance will be tested to the hilt. Would West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee be on board with Congress and Left parties contesting elections in the state? Would Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal allow Congress to compete in the capital once again and divide the votes? These are a few of the burning questions that most political pundits and voters are actively seeking answers to. If a consensus is not found on the issue, the alliance might be dead-on-arrival. However, in the fortunate circumstance that middle ground is found, another challenge quickly stares down the barrel - who will be the prime ministerial candidate? Also read | NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls Who will spar against PM Modi? If the opposition believes that it will be able to win against PM Narendra Modi without a credible and powerful face squaring up against him, the battle could be over before it begins. No matter how the narrative is turned, India and Bharat, still vote for a face and Modi has been a darling of the middle class of India. The truth of the matter is that PM Modi and his gargantuan stature dwarfs most political leaders in India. There are a handful of leaders in the opposition that can go toe-to-toe against him. Kharge has pointed out Congress is not interested in “either power or the prime ministerial post" but if the push comes to shove, will Rahul Gandhi be projected as the alternative? And if Congress has its way, how will the other partners react to it? Watch | We have decided to fight elections together', says Nitish Kumar after opposition meet × Foreshadowing the fissures? Despite Kharge claiming that the opposition front was off to a solid start after rechristening itself, statements that might foreshadow the end of the alliance have started doing the rounds of the internet. While Congress claimed it was Rahul Gandhi who coined the name of the new alliance, TMC leaders said it was their supremo Mamata Banerjee who engineered the name. Similarly, AAP and other coalition partners went ahead and attempted to quietly gobble up the credit pie. If the hunger for credit is so evident at the first achievement, it looks highly improbable how the coalition will function when it will be up against the well-oiled election machinery of BJP-led NDA led by the astute Amit Shah. Also read: 38 vs 26: India's ruling NDA and opposition parties hold meetings to assert dominance The quest for alternative It is not the first instance when the opposition has posited banding together to take on the ruling power. Ever since the emergence of coalition governments in the late 90s and early 2000s, the opposition parties, bar Congress and BJP have tried to come up with the idea of a strong 'Third Front'. The idea was to band all the regional parties in one big basket and go hammer and tongs against the established players. The idea looked decent, some might say, brilliant on paper but never materialised in reality. The 'Third Front' propped up before every election but the final outline always remained blurry, disjointed and in the end, a failed exercise. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | Will the new opposition alliance INDIA be able to topple the Modi juggernaut?

<p>Hours after the opposition parties announced the formation of their new coalition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took potshots at them saying that their alliance was formed out of compulsion for grabbing power, and based on dynastic politics, whereas the NDA alliance headed by the ruling BJP reflects the aspirations of people and states.</p>

<p>Addressing the members of the 38-party National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Tuesday (July 18), Modi said that while their coalition works to unite the people of the country, the opposition divides them.</p>

<p>“NDA is a beautiful rainbow of regional aspirations... So nation's development through the development of states... At a time when we are working for a developed India, NDA is taking the lead in showing the spirit of 'sabka prayas’ (everyone’s effort)," he said.</p>

<p>Taking a swipe at the newly named coalition I.N.D.I.A, Modi said that NDA represents New India, a Developed Nation and the Aspiration of People and Region.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Opposition alliance born&nbsp;out of compulsion’ </strong></h2>

<p>He said that, unlike the opposition, BJP’s coalition with other parties is not of compulsion but of contribution.</p>

<p>"When an alliance is formed due to compulsion of power, when an alliance is with the intention of corruption, when an alliance is based on dynastic politics, when an alliance is formed keeping in mind casteism and regionalism, then that alliance is very harmful to the country," Modi said.</p>

<p>"Today people are seeing who all are a part of NDA. They work for the exploited and deprived, tribals and backwards... It is dedicated to the people of the country. Its motto is ‘Nation First, Progress First, Empowerment of the people first’... NDA is working towards delivering social justice as envisioned by (founding fathers) Gandhi and Ambedkar," he said.</p>

<p>Highlighting India’s history of political alliances, Modi said that a coalition formed on the basis of negativity would never succeed.</p>

<p>"In the 1990s, the Congress in order to bring instability in the country used alliances. They formed governments and pulled down governments. The NDA was formed in this period in 1998...It was not formed against anybody or to remove anyone from power, but it was formed to bring stability to the country," the prime minister said.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition-ruled states create roadblocks for central schemes</strong></h2>

<p>He asserted that when there is a stable government, decisions that change the direction of the nation are taken.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nda-vs-india-bjp-opposition-parties-names-their-alliance-india-617061">NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of ’24 polls</a></p>

<p>"We saw it during former PM Atal (Bihari Vajpayee) ji's tenure and we are seeing this in the last nine years. Due to a stable government, the confidence of the world in India has increased," he said.</p>

<p>The PM said that the states ruled by the opposition governments do not allow central schemes to be implemented, and if implemented, they are not allowed to gather pace.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-issues-takedown-notices-to-15-websites-for-selling-e-cigarettes-617015">India issues takedown notices to 15 websites for selling e-cigarettes&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>Modi was confident of the BJP-led NDA alliance securing more than 50 per cent vote share in the 2024 Lok Sabha&nbsp;polls.</p>

<p>“NDA had about 38 per cent vote share in 2014, and 45 per cent in 2019. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, NDA’s vote share will be over 50 per cent because of its allies who are working hard,” he said.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Hours after the opposition parties announced the formation of their new coalition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took potshots at them saying that their alliance was formed out of compulsion for grabbing power, and based on dynastic politics, whereas the NDA alliance headed by the ruling BJP reflects the aspirations of people and states.

Hours after the opposition parties announced the formation of their new coalition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took potshots at them saying that their alliance was formed out of compulsion for grabbing power, and based on dynastic politics, whereas the NDA alliance headed by the ruling BJP reflects the aspirations of people and states. Addressing the members of the 38-party National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Tuesday (July 18), Modi said that while their coalition works to unite the people of the country, the opposition divides them. “NDA is a beautiful rainbow of regional aspirations... So nation's development through the development of states... At a time when we are working for a developed India, NDA is taking the lead in showing the spirit of 'sabka prayas’ (everyone’s effort)," he said. Taking a swipe at the newly named coalition I.N.D.I.A, Modi said that NDA represents New India, a Developed Nation and the Aspiration of People and Region. ‘Opposition alliance born out of compulsion’ He said that, unlike the opposition, BJP’s coalition with other parties is not of compulsion but of contribution. "When an alliance is formed due to compulsion of power, when an alliance is with the intention of corruption, when an alliance is based on dynastic politics, when an alliance is formed keeping in mind casteism and regionalism, then that alliance is very harmful to the country," Modi said. "Today people are seeing who all are a part of NDA. They work for the exploited and deprived, tribals and backwards... It is dedicated to the people of the country. Its motto is ‘Nation First, Progress First, Empowerment of the people first’... NDA is working towards delivering social justice as envisioned by (founding fathers) Gandhi and Ambedkar," he said. Highlighting India’s history of political alliances, Modi said that a coalition formed on the basis of negativity would never succeed. "In the 1990s, the Congress in order to bring instability in the country used alliances. They formed governments and pulled down governments. The NDA was formed in this period in 1998...It was not formed against anybody or to remove anyone from power, but it was formed to bring stability to the country," the prime minister said. Opposition-ruled states create roadblocks for central schemes He asserted that when there is a stable government, decisions that change the direction of the nation are taken. Also read | NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of ’24 polls "We saw it during former PM Atal (Bihari Vajpayee) ji's tenure and we are seeing this in the last nine years. Due to a stable government, the confidence of the world in India has increased," he said. The PM said that the states ruled by the opposition governments do not allow central schemes to be implemented, and if implemented, they are not allowed to gather pace. Also read | India issues takedown notices to 15 websites for selling e-cigarettes Modi was confident of the BJP-led NDA alliance securing more than 50 per cent vote share in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. “NDA had about 38 per cent vote share in 2014, and 45 per cent in 2019. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, NDA’s vote share will be over 50 per cent because of its allies who are working hard,” he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Oppn alliance born out of compulsion for grabbing power’: PM Modi blasts new front named ‘INDIA’

<p>Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, the Indian government had approved plans to buy 26 more Rafale jets and another three Scorpene-class submarines. But there was no mention of either of the deals in the joint statement issued last week post the bilateral talks.</p>

<p>Now, the Indian government sources have clarified to WION that the reason why it wasn’t mentioned in the joint statement is because “contracts aren’t put in vision statements”.</p>

<p>The sources on Tuesday (July 18) said that India and France would soon begin negotiations in many areas like price and date of delivery.</p>

<p>“India has made it clear that it wants Rafale fighter jets for the Navy and negotiations in this regard will take place to finalise it,” sources told WION.</p>

<p>The sources&nbsp;said that Rafale wasn’t included in the roadmap because it was for the next 25 years.</p>

<p>Since the Rafale contract would be completed long before 25 years, hence both countries felt that it didn't have to be mentioned in the statement, the sources said.</p>

<p>On the Scorpene deal, the sources said the agreement wasn’t finalised as key aspects of the deal still need to be discussed.</p>

<h2><strong>India-France defence deals on track: France shares details</strong></h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-france-defence-deals-on-track-france-shares-details-617024/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Scorpene deal still not concluded but both sides don't expect any difficulty,” they said.</p>

<p>On July 15, the Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved the proposal to acquire 26 Naval variant Rafale jets and three French-designed Scorpene class submarines. Out of the 26 jets, four will be used as trainer aircraft for the naval platform.</p>

<p>The delivery of the aircraft will start within three years after the contract is signed. However, it may take around a year to finalize the deal as detailed price negotiations need to take place.</p>

<p>After the Indian government announced the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets for the Navy, Dassault Aviation had issued a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/its-official-indian-govt-announces-selection-of-26-navy-rafale-to-boost-indian-navy-615831">It's official, Indian govt announces selection of 26 Navy Rafale to boost Indian Navy</a></p>

<p>“Following an international competition launched by the Indian authorities, this decision comes after a successful trial campaign held in India, during which the Navy Rafale demonstrated that it fully met the Indian Navy's operational requirements and was perfectly suited to the specificities of its aircraft carrier.”</p>

<p>“The Indian Navy's 26 Rafale will eventually join the 36 Rafale already in service, which are giving full satisfaction to the Indian Air Force, making India the first country to make the same military choice as France by operating both versions of the aircraft to help consolidate its superiority in the air and on the seas and guarantee its sovereignty," Dassault said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-france-sign-key-defence-pacts-set-to-co-develop-new-combat-aircraft-engine-615791">India, France sign key defence pacts, set to co-develop new combat aircraft engine</a></p>

<p>According to reports from AFP, India stands as one of the largest purchasers of French arms. Back in 2015, during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Paris, a significant agreement was unveiled for the acquisition of 36 Rafale fighter jets, valued at approximately 4.0 billion euros at that time.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, the Indian government had approved plans to buy 26 more Rafale jets and another three Scorpene-class submarines.

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, the Indian government had approved plans to buy 26 more Rafale jets and another three Scorpene-class submarines. But there was no mention of either of the deals in the joint statement issued last week post the bilateral talks. Now, the Indian government sources have clarified to WION that the reason why it wasn’t mentioned in the joint statement is because “contracts aren’t put in vision statements”. The sources on Tuesday (July 18) said that India and France would soon begin negotiations in many areas like price and date of delivery. “India has made it clear that it wants Rafale fighter jets for the Navy and negotiations in this regard will take place to finalise it,” sources told WION. The sources said that Rafale wasn’t included in the roadmap because it was for the next 25 years. Since the Rafale contract would be completed long before 25 years, hence both countries felt that it didn't have to be mentioned in the statement, the sources said. On the Scorpene deal, the sources said the agreement wasn’t finalised as key aspects of the deal still need to be discussed. India-France defence deals on track: France shares details “Scorpene deal still not concluded but both sides don't expect any difficulty,” they said. On July 15, the Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved the proposal to acquire 26 Naval variant Rafale jets and three French-designed Scorpene class submarines. Out of the 26 jets, four will be used as trainer aircraft for the naval platform. The delivery of the aircraft will start within three years after the contract is signed. However, it may take around a year to finalize the deal as detailed price negotiations need to take place. After the Indian government announced the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets for the Navy, Dassault Aviation had issued a statement. Also read | It's official, Indian govt announces selection of 26 Navy Rafale to boost Indian Navy “Following an international competition launched by the Indian authorities, this decision comes after a successful trial campaign held in India, during which the Navy Rafale demonstrated that it fully met the Indian Navy's operational requirements and was perfectly suited to the specificities of its aircraft carrier.” “The Indian Navy's 26 Rafale will eventually join the 36 Rafale already in service, which are giving full satisfaction to the Indian Air Force, making India the first country to make the same military choice as France by operating both versions of the aircraft to help consolidate its superiority in the air and on the seas and guarantee its sovereignty," Dassault said. Also read | India, France sign key defence pacts, set to co-develop new combat aircraft engine According to reports from AFP, India stands as one of the largest purchasers of French arms. Back in 2015, during Prime Minister Modi's visit to Paris, a significant agreement was unveiled for the acquisition of 36 Rafale fighter jets, valued at approximately 4.0 billion euros at that time. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Rafale and Scorpene submarine deals didn’t figure in Indo-French joint statement. Here’s why

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushed the de-dollarisation movement in the United Arab Emirates on Saturday as the central banks of the two nations agreed to 'establish a framework to promote the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions'. The two sides also agreed to cooperate for the interlinking of their payment and messaging systems, reflecting New Delhi's lead in prioritising the move away from the US-dominated SWIFT payments interface.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/brazils-president-lula-assents-to-common-brics-currency-to-counter-us-dollars-dominance-582289">Brazil's President Lula seeks common BRICS currency to counter US dollar's dominance</a></strong></p>

<p>The agreement was signed during a one-day visit to the UAE by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which he described as the one aimed towards"making our planet better."</p>

<h2><strong>India-UAE local currency framework: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The Memorandum of Understanding signed by&nbsp;the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, Shaktikanta Das and the Governor of the Central Bank of UAE, H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, aims to&nbsp;put in place a Local Currency Settlement System (LCSS) to promote the use of Indian Rupee and Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) for bilateral trade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The MoU covers all current account transactions and permitted capital account transactions," an official readout by the Reserve Bank of India said.</p>

<p>The agreement would enable exporters and importers to invoice and pay in their respective domestic currencies, which in turn would enable the development of an INR-AED foreign exchange market.</p>

<p>"The use of local currencies would optimise transaction costs and settlement time for transactions, including for remittances from Indians residing in UAE," Reserve Bank of India added.</p>

<h2><strong>India's UPI, and UAE's IPP to be interlinked</strong></h2>

<p>The two countries also agreed to cooperate on linking their Fast Payment Systems (FPSs) — India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and UAE's Instant Payment Platform&nbsp;— as well as their respective Card Switches (Rupay switch and UAESWITCH). India and UAE will also explore the&nbsp;linking of payments messaging systems i.e., Structured Financial Messaging System (SFMS) of India with the messaging system in the UAE.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;De-dollarisation: 10 ASEAN countries agree to ditch the US Dollar</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/de-dollarisation-10-asean-countries-agree-to-ditch-the-us-dollar-593824/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"The UPI-IPP linkage will enable the users in either country to make fast, convenient, safe, and cost-effective cross-border funds transfers. The linking of Card Switches will facilitate the mutual acceptance of domestic cards and the processing of card transactions. The linkage of messaging systems is aimed to facilitate bilateral financial messaging between the two countries," the RBI said.</p>

<p>Bilateral trade&nbsp;between India and the UAE has increased from US$ 72.9 billion (Apr 21-Mar 2022) to US$ 84.5 billion (Apr 22-Mar 2023) registering a year-on-year increase of 16 per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushed the de-dollarisation movement in the United Arab Emirates on Saturday as the central banks of the two nations agreed to 'establish a framework to promote the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions'.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushed the de-dollarisation movement in the United Arab Emirates on Saturday as the central banks of the two nations agreed to 'establish a framework to promote the use of local currencies for cross-border transactions'. The two sides also agreed to cooperate for the interlinking of their payment and messaging systems, reflecting New Delhi's lead in prioritising the move away from the US-dominated SWIFT payments interface. Also read | Brazil's President Lula seeks common BRICS currency to counter US dollar's dominance The agreement was signed during a one-day visit to the UAE by India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which he described as the one aimed towards"making our planet better." India-UAE local currency framework: What does it mean? The Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, Shaktikanta Das and the Governor of the Central Bank of UAE, H.E. Khaled Mohamed Balama, aims to put in place a Local Currency Settlement System (LCSS) to promote the use of Indian Rupee and Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) for bilateral trade. "The MoU covers all current account transactions and permitted capital account transactions," an official readout by the Reserve Bank of India said. The agreement would enable exporters and importers to invoice and pay in their respective domestic currencies, which in turn would enable the development of an INR-AED foreign exchange market. "The use of local currencies would optimise transaction costs and settlement time for transactions, including for remittances from Indians residing in UAE," Reserve Bank of India added. India's UPI, and UAE's IPP to be interlinked The two countries also agreed to cooperate on linking their Fast Payment Systems (FPSs) — India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and UAE's Instant Payment Platform — as well as their respective Card Switches (Rupay switch and UAESWITCH). India and UAE will also explore the linking of payments messaging systems i.e., Structured Financial Messaging System (SFMS) of India with the messaging system in the UAE. Also watch | De-dollarisation: 10 ASEAN countries agree to ditch the US Dollar × "The UPI-IPP linkage will enable the users in either country to make fast, convenient, safe, and cost-effective cross-border funds transfers. The linking of Card Switches will facilitate the mutual acceptance of domestic cards and the processing of card transactions. The linkage of messaging systems is aimed to facilitate bilateral financial messaging between the two countries," the RBI said. Bilateral trade between India and the UAE has increased from US$ 72.9 billion (Apr 21-Mar 2022) to US$ 84.5 billion (Apr 22-Mar 2023) registering a year-on-year increase of 16 per cent. 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 brings home de-dollarisation bonanza with rupee-dirham framework

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday (July 15) and met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "Grateful to Crown Prince HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for welcoming me at the airport today," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi was given a ceremonial welcome, following which several bilateral talks with a focus on areas of energy and defence&nbsp;and other events were organised in honour of his visit.&nbsp;Modi's visit to the UAE comes after he concluded a two-day visit to France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference on Thursday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said, "He (Modi) will meet the President of UAE Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. We have all seen significant transformation taking place in the India-UAE relationship. The bilateral trade is currently very strong, $85 billion dollars between India and UAE."</p>

<p>Modi and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan had last met in June in Abu Dhabi when the Indian PM visited the UAE while on his return from the G7 summit in Munich. In February, both countries held a virtual summit. During the summit, Modi and Mohammed expressed deep satisfaction at the continuous growth in bilateral relations in all sectors.</p>

<p>One of the major highlights of this summit was the signing and exchange of the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The agreement would provide significant benefits to Indian and UAE businesses, including enhanced market access and reduced tariffs. Two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were also signed between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Modi concludes France visit, calls it memorable</strong></h2>

<p>Modi emplaned for the UAE after concluding his two-day visit to France. "This France visit was a memorable one. It was made even more special because I got the opportunity to take part in the Bastille Day celebrations. Seeing the Indian contingent get a pride of place in the parade was wonderful. I am grateful to President Emmanuel Macron and the French people for the exceptional warmth and hospitality," he tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi was the guest of honour&nbsp;at the Bastille Day military parade. On Friday, Modi and Macron&nbsp;watched French and Indian soldiers march down the tree-lined Champs-Elysees avenue in Paris, while French-made Rafale fighter jets India bought in 2015 took part in a fly-past over the Arc de Triomphe.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday (July 15) and met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday (July 15) and met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. "Grateful to Crown Prince HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for welcoming me at the airport today," Prime Minister Modi tweeted. Modi was given a ceremonial welcome, following which several bilateral talks with a focus on areas of energy and defence and other events were organised in honour of his visit. Modi's visit to the UAE comes after he concluded a two-day visit to France. Addressing a press conference on Thursday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said, "He (Modi) will meet the President of UAE Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. We have all seen significant transformation taking place in the India-UAE relationship. The bilateral trade is currently very strong, $85 billion dollars between India and UAE." Modi and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan had last met in June in Abu Dhabi when the Indian PM visited the UAE while on his return from the G7 summit in Munich. In February, both countries held a virtual summit. During the summit, Modi and Mohammed expressed deep satisfaction at the continuous growth in bilateral relations in all sectors. One of the major highlights of this summit was the signing and exchange of the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The agreement would provide significant benefits to Indian and UAE businesses, including enhanced market access and reduced tariffs. Two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) were also signed between the two countries. Modi concludes France visit, calls it memorable Modi emplaned for the UAE after concluding his two-day visit to France. "This France visit was a memorable one. It was made even more special because I got the opportunity to take part in the Bastille Day celebrations. Seeing the Indian contingent get a pride of place in the parade was wonderful. I am grateful to President Emmanuel Macron and the French people for the exceptional warmth and hospitality," he tweeted. Modi was the guest of honour at the Bastille Day military parade. On Friday, Modi and Macron watched French and Indian soldiers march down the tree-lined Champs-Elysees avenue in Paris, while French-made Rafale fighter jets India bought in 2015 took part in a fly-past over the Arc de Triomphe. 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 arrives in UAE, holds bilateral talks with President Mohamed

<p>Over a century ago, <a href="https://www.cwgc.org/find-records/find-war-dead/casualty-details/539693/kapur-singh/">Sepoy Kapur Singh</a> of 69th Punjabis regiment of erstwhile British Indian Army left his home in Ambala town in&nbsp;northern India. Sepoy Kapur, husband of Asa Dai, did not return home. Like Sepoy Kapur Singh, <a href="https://www.cwgc.org/find-records/find-war-dead/casualty-details/2913500/deb-sing-bisht/">Rifleman Deb Sing Bisht</a> of 39th Garhwal Rifles from Chamoli town of present-day Uttarakhand did not return home either.</p>

<p><img alt="Indian soldiers who died in France" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e42a004-957f-46a9-9328-3d279b5e4dff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-15T015429.610.png" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Rifleman Deb Sing Bisht's memorial stone at Neuville-Sous-Montreuil Indian Cemetery,&nbsp;in Pas-de-Calais, France | Commonwealth War Grave Commission</em></p>

<p>Sepoy Kapur Singh and&nbsp;Rifleman Deb Singh Bisht themselves lived under colonial rule. But on French land during the first world war, they fought to keep democratic values of Equality, Liberty and Fraternity alive — laying their lives for the modern democratic values alien to their homeland at the time.&nbsp;<img alt="First World War | Paris | Indian troops" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e424f8e2-571b-41a5-90ab-6a0743b26f3a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-15T020347.011.png" /></p>

<p><em>One of the seminal pictures of World War-I&nbsp;is that of a French woman greeting Indian Sikh soldiers in Paris in 1916 at a site not far from Bastille Day's Celebrations on July 14, 2023 where India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the guest of honour | Toor Collection</em></p>

<p>About 1.4 million Indian soldiers served during World War-I, of which 1,40,000 battled in the north of France and Belgium. Over 74,000 soldiers from the Indian subcontinent laid their lives during the five-year period between 1914 to 1919, of which 7,000 were killed on their line of duties in France and Belgium – paying the ultimate price in a foreign, unknown land.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1916 to 2023<br />
<br />
Solidarity, Friendship &amp; Spirit endure.....<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BastilleDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BastilleDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFranceFriendship?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFranceFriendship</a> <a href="https://t.co/sH2OkozhjV">pic.twitter.com/sH2OkozhjV</a></p>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1679843217553121280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>After India’s freedom from the British, while the centre of power in New Delhi came to be symbolised by the monumental sandstone arch built by the British in the memory of troops who died in the first world war, in France – until recently – the mainstream awareness about Indians who died protecting French lands during the first world war was scarce.</p>

<p>This has changed in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="India Gate" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d4190d1-e54b-445e-a038-3da95d78ed59" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-15T021035.226.png" /></p>

<p><em>India Gate,&nbsp;originally called All-India War Memorial, is a sandstone arch in New Delhi, dedicated to the troops of British India who laid their lives during first world war | AFP</em></p>

<p>At a war memorial of Neuve-Chapelle, in the north of France, the names of fallen soldiers hint upon their Indian origins – just like the ones whose names are engraved on India Gate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Commemorative ceremonies are now held to honour the sacrifices made by the Indians who died while saving France from falling into German hands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the last three decades, Ramesh Chander Vohra, 75, founder and president of Interfaith Shaheedi Commemoration Association (IFSC) has been spending his savings and later his pension funds to commemorate the sacrifices of Indians who died protecting France in the twentieth century.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the 2010s, the governments of France, the United States and various European countries planned numerous military ceremonies to celebrate the centenary of victory in the former battlefields of first world war. The Indian soldiers were the great forgotten in these ceremonies, Vohra noted.</p>

<p>On August 30, 2015, Vohra organised an interfaith prayer at the Neuve-Chapelle Indian Memorial site, attended by over a dozen local mayors.</p>

<p>Vedic mantras, verses from the Koran, Shabads of Shri Granth Sahib and Christian psalms were&nbsp;chanted in for the peace of departed souls of the Indian soldiers of diverse religious backgrounds.&nbsp;<img alt="Vohra image" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="836441ee-f55c-4132-9512-4b43eefd1b2b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-15T031510.573.png" /></p>

<p><em>Ramesh Chandra Vohra (Centre) during the interfaith prayer at the Neuve-Chapelle Indian Memorial site on August 30, 2015 | By special arrangement</em></p>

<p>"The French culture as a whole recognises and respects their contributions, fostering a sense of gratitude and remembrance," Vohra told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have even purchased land next to the Neuve Chapelle monument and aim to put up a statue in the memory of their gallant contribution," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, 107 years after they first marched on French streets during a victory parade after saving France from falling into German hands, the Indian troops marched into Paris again.</p>

<p>The Indian tri-services contingent added spectacle to Bastille Day Parade, marching down the tree-lined Champs-Elysee avenue, wowing the crowd in the French capital — Ramesh Chandra Vohra one among them.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Marching together towards a forever friendship…<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmedForces?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmedForces</a> contingent displayed immaculate and synchronised drill movements at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BastilleDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BastilleDay</a> celebrations in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a>. The participation of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> contingent in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FrenchNationalDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FrenchNationalDay</a> celebrations reinforces the… <a href="https://t.co/3vv6jRt1Qx">pic.twitter.com/3vv6jRt1Qx</a></p>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1679862966886502400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>According to historian-filmmaker Vijay Singh's 2016-film 'Farewell My Indian Soldier', the letters sent home by Indian soldiers were full of praises for the French.&nbsp;For the French people in Somme region, the Indian battalions were perceived as liberators who had left their tropical country to face the cold for&nbsp;their aid.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian soldiers at Champs-Élysées at the military parade of July 14, 1916. At the time this snapshot, the Battle of the Somme, in which the Indian Expeditionary Force (IEF) were fighting, had already begun. This was given as a gift by Prez Macron to PM Modi. <a href="https://t.co/FQbcGvIccv">https://t.co/FQbcGvIccv</a> <a href="https://t.co/26ZtPty9s6">pic.twitter.com/26ZtPty9s6</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1679801790156374017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>A soldier's letter was quoted as saying by an article authored by Singh for The Indian Express in 2019: "Over here, marriage is never under 18 and by consent of both the parties. No man can beat his wife. This injustice happens only in India! Man and woman live together in harmony."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another soldier noted that French girls came out on streets when Indian cavalrymen were trasferred out of a village. A placard read: "Indian soldiers are departing. <em>Mademoiselle France pleure!</em> Miss France is in tears!"</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Over a century ago, Sepoy Kapur Singh of 69th Punjabis regiment of erstwhile British Indian Army left his home in Ambala town in northern India. Sepoy Kapur, husband of Asa Dai, did not return home.

Over a century ago, Sepoy Kapur Singh of 69th Punjabis regiment of erstwhile British Indian Army left his home in Ambala town in northern India. Sepoy Kapur, husband of Asa Dai, did not return home. Like Sepoy Kapur Singh, Rifleman Deb Sing Bisht of 39th Garhwal Rifles from Chamoli town of present-day Uttarakhand did not return home either. Rifleman Deb Sing Bisht's memorial stone at Neuville-Sous-Montreuil Indian Cemetery, in Pas-de-Calais, France | Commonwealth War Grave Commission Sepoy Kapur Singh and Rifleman Deb Singh Bisht themselves lived under colonial rule. But on French land during the first world war, they fought to keep democratic values of Equality, Liberty and Fraternity alive — laying their lives for the modern democratic values alien to their homeland at the time. One of the seminal pictures of World War-I is that of a French woman greeting Indian Sikh soldiers in Paris in 1916 at a site not far from Bastille Day's Celebrations on July 14, 2023 where India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the guest of honour | Toor Collection About 1.4 million Indian soldiers served during World War-I, of which 1,40,000 battled in the north of France and Belgium. Over 74,000 soldiers from the Indian subcontinent laid their lives during the five-year period between 1914 to 1919, of which 7,000 were killed on their line of duties in France and Belgium – paying the ultimate price in a foreign, unknown land. 1916 to 2023 Solidarity, Friendship & Spirit endure.....#BastilleDay #IndiaFranceFriendship pic.twitter.com/sH2OkozhjV — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) July 14, 2023 × After India’s freedom from the British, while the centre of power in New Delhi came to be symbolised by the monumental sandstone arch built by the British in the memory of troops who died in the first world war, in France – until recently – the mainstream awareness about Indians who died protecting French lands during the first world war was scarce. This has changed in recent years. India Gate, originally called All-India War Memorial, is a sandstone arch in New Delhi, dedicated to the troops of British India who laid their lives during first world war | AFP At a war memorial of Neuve-Chapelle, in the north of France, the names of fallen soldiers hint upon their Indian origins – just like the ones whose names are engraved on India Gate. Commemorative ceremonies are now held to honour the sacrifices made by the Indians who died while saving France from falling into German hands. For the last three decades, Ramesh Chander Vohra, 75, founder and president of Interfaith Shaheedi Commemoration Association (IFSC) has been spending his savings and later his pension funds to commemorate the sacrifices of Indians who died protecting France in the twentieth century. In the 2010s, the governments of France, the United States and various European countries planned numerous military ceremonies to celebrate the centenary of victory in the former battlefields of first world war. The Indian soldiers were the great forgotten in these ceremonies, Vohra noted. On August 30, 2015, Vohra organised an interfaith prayer at the Neuve-Chapelle Indian Memorial site, attended by over a dozen local mayors. Vedic mantras, verses from the Koran, Shabads of Shri Granth Sahib and Christian psalms were chanted in for the peace of departed souls of the Indian soldiers of diverse religious backgrounds. Ramesh Chandra Vohra (Centre) during the interfaith prayer at the Neuve-Chapelle Indian Memorial site on August 30, 2015 | By special arrangement "The French culture as a whole recognises and respects their contributions, fostering a sense of gratitude and remembrance," Vohra told WION. "I have even purchased land next to the Neuve Chapelle monument and aim to put up a statue in the memory of their gallant contribution," he added. On Friday, 107 years after they first marched on French streets during a victory parade after saving France from falling into German hands, the Indian troops marched into Paris again. The Indian tri-services contingent added spectacle to Bastille Day Parade, marching down the tree-lined Champs-Elysee avenue, wowing the crowd in the French capital — Ramesh Chandra Vohra one among them. Marching together towards a forever friendship…#IndianArmedForces contingent displayed immaculate and synchronised drill movements at the #BastilleDay celebrations in #France. The participation of the #IndianArmy contingent in the #FrenchNationalDay celebrations reinforces the… pic.twitter.com/3vv6jRt1Qx — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) July 14, 2023 × According to historian-filmmaker Vijay Singh's 2016-film 'Farewell My Indian Soldier', the letters sent home by Indian soldiers were full of praises for the French. For the French people in Somme region, the Indian battalions were perceived as liberators who had left their tropical country to face the cold for their aid. Indian soldiers at Champs-Élysées at the military parade of July 14, 1916. At the time this snapshot, the Battle of the Somme, in which the Indian Expeditionary Force (IEF) were fighting, had already begun. This was given as a gift by Prez Macron to PM Modi. https://t.co/FQbcGvIccv pic.twitter.com/26ZtPty9s6 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) July 14, 2023 × A soldier's letter was quoted as saying by an article authored by Singh for The Indian Express in 2019: "Over here, marriage is never under 18 and by consent of both the parties. No man can beat his wife. This injustice happens only in India! Man and woman live together in harmony." Another soldier noted that French girls came out on streets when Indian cavalrymen were trasferred out of a village. A placard read: "Indian soldiers are departing. Mademoiselle France pleure! Miss France is in tears!" 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.

Cast From The Past: Indians who died protecting France during first World War

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood beside French President Emmanuel Macron at Elysee Palace in Paris and repeated Global South's call for dialogue and diplomacy to end war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The effects of Covid pandemic and war in Ukraine have been felt all around the world. These two issues have negatively impacted the countries of Global South in particular. To sort these issues, all countries must come together. All disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. India is ready to contribute towards a stable form of peace," Modi said.</p>

<p>"India and France have cooperated in their fight against terrorism. We believe in opting tough measures&nbsp;to end cross-border terrorism," Modi added, while indirectly hinting at cross-border terrorism perpetrated into the Indian side from Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Defence an important pillar of India-France ties: Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Modi said that defence is an important pillar of India-France ties. "We will now focus on co-production &amp; co-development for fighter jets and submarines, not just for India but also for other friendly countries," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-in-france-live-updates-prime-minister-arrives-for-bastille-day-parade-615473">Indian PM in Paris: We have agreed to launch India's Unified Payment Interface in France, says Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>Modi said that the people of India have taken the resolve to make the country a developed nation and France is a natural partner in this journey.</p>

<p>"Bold and ambitious goals are being set for this. The people of India have taken the resolve to make ourselves a developed nation. In this journey, we see France as a natural partner," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi invites French universities to open campuses in India</strong></h2>

<p>Modi invited French universities to open campuses in India and conveyed Delhi's regards to Paris for upcoming Olympics.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;World moving towards a new world order: PM Modi to Indian diaspora in France</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-moving-towards-a-new-world-order-pm-modi-to-indian-diaspora-in-france-615290/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"We will open a new Indian Consulate in the city of Marseille. We welcome the decision to grant long-term visas to people of Indian origin studying in France. I invite French universities to set up their campuses in India. Indian athletes are excited to participate in next year's Paris Olympics."</p>

<p>"Yesterday, French President Emmanuel Macron conferred me with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France. It is not my honour but the honour of 140 crore people of the country," Modi added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood beside French President Emmanuel Macron at Elysee Palace in Paris and repeated Global South's call for dialogue and diplomacy to end war in Ukraine.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood beside French President Emmanuel Macron at Elysee Palace in Paris and repeated Global South's call for dialogue and diplomacy to end war in Ukraine. "The effects of Covid pandemic and war in Ukraine have been felt all around the world. These two issues have negatively impacted the countries of Global South in particular. To sort these issues, all countries must come together. All disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. India is ready to contribute towards a stable form of peace," Modi said. "India and France have cooperated in their fight against terrorism. We believe in opting tough measures to end cross-border terrorism," Modi added, while indirectly hinting at cross-border terrorism perpetrated into the Indian side from Pakistan. Defence an important pillar of India-France ties: Modi Modi said that defence is an important pillar of India-France ties. "We will now focus on co-production & co-development for fighter jets and submarines, not just for India but also for other friendly countries," he said. Also read | Indian PM in Paris: We have agreed to launch India's Unified Payment Interface in France, says Modi Modi said that the people of India have taken the resolve to make the country a developed nation and France is a natural partner in this journey. "Bold and ambitious goals are being set for this. The people of India have taken the resolve to make ourselves a developed nation. In this journey, we see France as a natural partner," he added. Modi invites French universities to open campuses in India Modi invited French universities to open campuses in India and conveyed Delhi's regards to Paris for upcoming Olympics. Watch | World moving towards a new world order: PM Modi to Indian diaspora in France × "We will open a new Indian Consulate in the city of Marseille. We welcome the decision to grant long-term visas to people of Indian origin studying in France. I invite French universities to set up their campuses in India. Indian athletes are excited to participate in next year's Paris Olympics." "Yesterday, French President Emmanuel Macron conferred me with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France. It is not my honour but the honour of 140 crore people of the country," Modi added. 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.

Modi in France: India flags cross-border terrorism, repeats call for dialogue to end Ukraine war

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a high-level visit to France. During the second day of his visit, the Indian leader met thought leaders and some distinguished business people, engaging in fruitful discussions on various topics. Among the big names he met are a prominent aerospace engineer and an almost hundred-year-old yoga practitioner.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi's meetings and engagements in Paris underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange between the two nations.</p>

<h2><strong>Great minds and great discussions</strong></h2>

<p>One of the notable individuals Modi met was Thomas Pesquet, an esteemed aerospace engineer and pilot. PM Modi expressed his admiration for Pesquet's dedication to motivating young people in the fields of science and space. As per the Indian leader, they had an enlightening conversation covering a wide range of subjects.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-conferred-with-frances-highest-civilian-award-by-emmanuel-macron-615333">India's PM Modi conferred with France’s highest civilian award by Macron</a></strong></p>

<p>In a tweet, Modi talked of his meeting with the engineer and wrote: “When it comes to motivating youngsters towards science and space, Thomas Pesquet's name figures prominently. It was a delight to meet him and exchange views on a wide range of subjects. His energy and insights are very valuable.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When it comes to motivating youngsters towards science and space, Thomas Pesquet’s name figures prominently. It was a delight to meet him and exchange views on a wide range of subjects. His energy and insights are very valuable. <a href="https://twitter.com/Thom_astro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Thom_astro</a> <a href="https://t.co/QGgFHLcJCo">pic.twitter.com/QGgFHLcJCo</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1679862573817004032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Another significant meeting was with Leena Nair, the CEO of Chanel. PM Modi highlighted the importance of skill development and explored ways to further enhance it, particularly among artisans. They also discussed strategies to popularise Khadi, an Indian handcrafted fabric, on the global stage.</p>

<p>PM Modi commended Nair, who is of Indian origin, for her achievements and wrote on Twitter: “It's always a delight to meet a person of Indian origin who has made a mark at the world stage. We had a great conversation about ways to further boost skill development among artisans and to make Khadi more popular.”</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Met the Global CEO of <a href="https://twitter.com/CHANEL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CHANEL</a>, Mrs. Leena Nair. It’s always a delight to meet a person of Indian origin who has made a mark at the world stage. We had a great conversation about ways to further boost skill development among artisans and to make Khadi more popular. <a href="https://t.co/m75c75Ex1B">pic.twitter.com/m75c75Ex1B</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1679857678393266177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>PM Modi also met with Charlotte Chopin, a remarkable yoga practitioner who will soon celebrate her 100th birthday.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In Paris, I had the opportunity to meet the remarkable Charlotte Chopin. She began practising Yoga at the age of 50. She’s going to turn hundred soon but her passion towards Yoga and fitness has only increased over the years. <a href="https://t.co/zrWkMMTck9">pic.twitter.com/zrWkMMTck9</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1679857244106547205?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Talking about his meeting with Chopin, PM Modi said, “She's (Chopin) going to turn hundred soon but her passion towards Yoga and fitness has only increased over the years.”</p>

<h2><strong>25 years of India-Paris strategic relations</strong></h2>

<p>During his visit, the Indian PM also attended a lunch hosted by Yaël Braun-Pivet, the President of France's National Assembly.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-narendra-modi-lauds-superhit-french-striker-kylian-mbappe-says-hes-more-popular-in-india-than-in-france-615369">PM Narendra Modi lauds 'Superhit' French striker Kylian Mbappe, says he's more popular in India than in France</a></strong></p>

<p>The visit coincided with Bastille Day, France's National Day, where PM Modi was the guest of honour at the Bastille Day Parade.</p>

<p>Indian armed forces contingents participated in the grand parade, which took place along the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris. This year, as per ANI, holds special significance as it marks the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a high-level visit to France. During the second day of his visit, the Indian leader met thought leaders and some distinguished business people, engaging in fruitful discussions on various topics.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a high-level visit to France. During the second day of his visit, the Indian leader met thought leaders and some distinguished business people, engaging in fruitful discussions on various topics. Among the big names he met are a prominent aerospace engineer and an almost hundred-year-old yoga practitioner. Prime Minister Modi's meetings and engagements in Paris underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange between the two nations. Great minds and great discussions One of the notable individuals Modi met was Thomas Pesquet, an esteemed aerospace engineer and pilot. PM Modi expressed his admiration for Pesquet's dedication to motivating young people in the fields of science and space. As per the Indian leader, they had an enlightening conversation covering a wide range of subjects. Also read | India's PM Modi conferred with France’s highest civilian award by Macron In a tweet, Modi talked of his meeting with the engineer and wrote: “When it comes to motivating youngsters towards science and space, Thomas Pesquet's name figures prominently. It was a delight to meet him and exchange views on a wide range of subjects. His energy and insights are very valuable.” When it comes to motivating youngsters towards science and space, Thomas Pesquet’s name figures prominently. It was a delight to meet him and exchange views on a wide range of subjects. His energy and insights are very valuable. @Thom_astro pic.twitter.com/QGgFHLcJCo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2023 × Another significant meeting was with Leena Nair, the CEO of Chanel. PM Modi highlighted the importance of skill development and explored ways to further enhance it, particularly among artisans. They also discussed strategies to popularise Khadi, an Indian handcrafted fabric, on the global stage. PM Modi commended Nair, who is of Indian origin, for her achievements and wrote on Twitter: “It's always a delight to meet a person of Indian origin who has made a mark at the world stage. We had a great conversation about ways to further boost skill development among artisans and to make Khadi more popular.” Met the Global CEO of @CHANEL, Mrs. Leena Nair. It’s always a delight to meet a person of Indian origin who has made a mark at the world stage. We had a great conversation about ways to further boost skill development among artisans and to make Khadi more popular. pic.twitter.com/m75c75Ex1B — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2023 × PM Modi also met with Charlotte Chopin, a remarkable yoga practitioner who will soon celebrate her 100th birthday. In Paris, I had the opportunity to meet the remarkable Charlotte Chopin. She began practising Yoga at the age of 50. She’s going to turn hundred soon but her passion towards Yoga and fitness has only increased over the years. pic.twitter.com/zrWkMMTck9 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2023 × Talking about his meeting with Chopin, PM Modi said, “She's (Chopin) going to turn hundred soon but her passion towards Yoga and fitness has only increased over the years.” 25 years of India-Paris strategic relations During his visit, the Indian PM also attended a lunch hosted by Yaël Braun-Pivet, the President of France's National Assembly. Also read | PM Narendra Modi lauds 'Superhit' French striker Kylian Mbappe, says he's more popular in India than in France The visit coincided with Bastille Day, France's National Day, where PM Modi was the guest of honour at the Bastille Day Parade. Indian armed forces contingents participated in the grand parade, which took place along the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris. This year, as per ANI, holds special significance as it marks the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership between India and France. (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 Modi meets prominent individuals in Paris; discusses yoga, science, skill development

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron conferred Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the country's highest honour, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, during his official visit to France.</p>

<p>Napoleon Bonaparte had established the Legion of Honour which consists of five degrees, among which the Indian prime minister was awarded the highest, the Grand Cross. The colour of the ribbon is red, and a five-armed Maltese asterisk on an oak along with laurel wreath is featured on the badge.</p>

<p>Although the membership remains typically reserved for French nationals, foreign individuals who are either serving France or upholding its ideals can also receive this distinction. Annually, around 300 foreign nationals are awarded this honour, in a total membership of over 79,000.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/modis-visit-to-paris-is-about-repositioning-indian-role-in-european-peace-and-security-615061">Modi’s visit to Paris is about repositioning Indian role in European peace and security</a></p>

<p>“A warm gesture embodying the spirit of Indo-French partnership. PM Narendra Modi conferred with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France by President Emmanuel Macron,” said the Ministry of External Affairs on Twitter.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A warm gesture embodying the spirit of 🇮🇳-🇫🇷 partnership.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> conferred with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France by President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. <a href="https://t.co/OyiHCHMDX2">pic.twitter.com/OyiHCHMDX2</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1679612580740907008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>As stated on the official website, the Legion of Honor is a reward given in France for “outstanding merit acquired in the service of the nation in a civilian or military capacity”.</p>

<p>“Foreigners may be decorated with the Legion of Honor if they have rendered services (e.g. cultural or economic) to France or supported causes defended by France, such as human rights, freedom of the press, or humanitarian action. State visits are also an occasion for conferring the Legion of Honor upon official figures, pursuant to diplomatic reciprocity and thereby supporting the foreign policy of France,” according to the award criteria.</p>

<p>Expressing his gratitude at the honour received, PM Modi tweeted, "It is with great humility that I accept the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor. This is an honour for the 140 crore people of India. I thank President&nbsp;@EmmanuelMacron, the French Government and people for this gesture. It shows their deep affection towards India and resolve for furthering friendship with our nation."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is with great humility that I accept the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor. This is an honour for the 140 crore people of India. I thank President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>, the French Government and people for this gesture. It shows their deep affection towards India and resolve for… <a href="https://t.co/Nw7V1JVgpb">pic.twitter.com/Nw7V1JVgpb</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1679734559477252096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>PM's two-day visit to France</strong></h2>

<p>The prime minister is on a two-day state visit to France. He will be the Guest of Honour French National Day (Bastille Day) celebrations to be held on Friday. On the occasion, Indian Air Force aircraft will perform a fly-past.</p>

<p>After landing in Paris on Thursday, the Indian diaspora met the prime minister in Paris. They gave a warm welcome to PM Modi while raising slogans “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi in France: PM holds talks with French PM, senate president after landing in Paris</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-in-france-pm-holds-talks-with-french-pm-senate-president-after-landing-in-paris-615259/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Modi held talks with his French counterpart Elizabeth Borne and met with France’s Senate leader. He addressed the Indian diaspora gathered at the famed performing arts centre La Seine Musicale. Later, Indian PM attended a private dinner hosted by Macron and his wife Brigette Macron at their official residence of Elysee Palace in Paris.</p>

<p>The prime minister's visit to France coincides with 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership shared between the two nations.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-19="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-30="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


French President Emmanuel Macron conferred Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the country's highest honour, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, during his official visit to France.

French President Emmanuel Macron conferred Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the country's highest honour, the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, during his official visit to France. Napoleon Bonaparte had established the Legion of Honour which consists of five degrees, among which the Indian prime minister was awarded the highest, the Grand Cross. The colour of the ribbon is red, and a five-armed Maltese asterisk on an oak along with laurel wreath is featured on the badge. Although the membership remains typically reserved for French nationals, foreign individuals who are either serving France or upholding its ideals can also receive this distinction. Annually, around 300 foreign nationals are awarded this honour, in a total membership of over 79,000. ALSO READ | Modi’s visit to Paris is about repositioning Indian role in European peace and security “A warm gesture embodying the spirit of Indo-French partnership. PM Narendra Modi conferred with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France by President Emmanuel Macron,” said the Ministry of External Affairs on Twitter. A warm gesture embodying the spirit of 🇮🇳-🇫🇷 partnership. PM @narendramodi conferred with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, the highest award in France by President @EmmanuelMacron. pic.twitter.com/OyiHCHMDX2 — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 13, 2023 × As stated on the official website, the Legion of Honor is a reward given in France for “outstanding merit acquired in the service of the nation in a civilian or military capacity”. “Foreigners may be decorated with the Legion of Honor if they have rendered services (e.g. cultural or economic) to France or supported causes defended by France, such as human rights, freedom of the press, or humanitarian action. State visits are also an occasion for conferring the Legion of Honor upon official figures, pursuant to diplomatic reciprocity and thereby supporting the foreign policy of France,” according to the award criteria. Expressing his gratitude at the honour received, PM Modi tweeted, "It is with great humility that I accept the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor. This is an honour for the 140 crore people of India. I thank President @EmmanuelMacron, the French Government and people for this gesture. It shows their deep affection towards India and resolve for furthering friendship with our nation." It is with great humility that I accept the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honor. This is an honour for the 140 crore people of India. I thank President @EmmanuelMacron, the French Government and people for this gesture. It shows their deep affection towards India and resolve for… pic.twitter.com/Nw7V1JVgpb — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2023 × PM's two-day visit to France The prime minister is on a two-day state visit to France. He will be the Guest of Honour French National Day (Bastille Day) celebrations to be held on Friday. On the occasion, Indian Air Force aircraft will perform a fly-past. After landing in Paris on Thursday, the Indian diaspora met the prime minister in Paris. They gave a warm welcome to PM Modi while raising slogans “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”. WATCH | PM Modi in France: PM holds talks with French PM, senate president after landing in Paris Modi held talks with his French counterpart Elizabeth Borne and met with France’s Senate leader. He addressed the Indian diaspora gathered at the famed performing arts centre La Seine Musicale. Later, Indian PM attended a private dinner hosted by Macron and his wife Brigette Macron at their official residence of Elysee Palace in Paris. The prime minister's visit to France coincides with 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership shared between the two nations. 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

India's PM Modi conferred with France’s highest civilian award by Macron

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on an official two-day visit to France, on Thursday (July 13) lauded French World Cup striker Kylian Mbappe. Talking highly of the young attacker, Modi said Mbappe’s growing presence is felt everywhere and that he is probably more famous among football fans in India than in France.</p>

<p>While addressing the Indian diaspora at the packed La Seine Musicale, Modi called Mbappe a ‘Superhit’ among Indian youth.</p>

<p>"French football player Kylian Mbappe is superhit among the youth in India. Mbappe is probably known to more people in India than in France," said PM Modi during his address.</p>

<p>Following Mbappe’s rise on the international scene since helping his first senior club, AS Monaco, reach the Champions League semis in 2017, rivals Paris Saint Germain (PSG) bought the young French striker on board on loan for a season before sealing his long-term deal for £166 million in 2018.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-winger-christian-pulisic-joins-serie-a-side-ac-milan-on-four-year-contract-615330">Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic joins Serie A side AC Milan on four-year contract</a></p>

<p>The same year, Mbappe became a household name after winning the home World Cup with France at just 18 years old. By that time, the former Barcelona winger and star player Neymar had also joined PSG, while a few years later, in 2021, seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi completed the trio at the French club by joining PSG on a two-year deal.</p>

<p>During the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year, Mbappe starred for France again, helping the side reach the finals on successive occasions. Up against Lionel Messi’s Argentina, Mbappe brought his A-game by scoring a World Cup Final hat-trick, a rare achievement. Though his team fell shy of winning back-to-back WCs, Mbappe won the Golden Boot for his eight goals in the 2022 edition – one ahead of Messi, who scored seven.</p>

<p>With the growing craze of European football in India in the past decade and with millions across the country watching the 2022 World Cup Finale, Mbappe’s amazing feat helped him gain enormous popularity in India.</p>

<h2>Mbappe’s club Future stays in limbo</h2>

<p>The star striker is on the radar of many top clubs across Europe, with Champions League giants Real Madrid the favourite to bag his services. Following the fallout last season when Mbappe was alleged to have agreed to personal terms with the Spanish club but did a u-turn last moment, Madrid is again back in the race to bag his services.</p>

<p>While nothing concrete is out from both end, latest reports suggest a final decision around the same will be made official soon.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on an official two-day visit to France, on Thursday (July 13) lauded French World Cup striker Kylian Mbappe. Talking highly of the young attacker, Modi said Mbappe’s growing presence is felt everywhere and that he is probably more famous among football fans in India than in France.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on an official two-day visit to France, on Thursday (July 13) lauded French World Cup striker Kylian Mbappe. Talking highly of the young attacker, Modi said Mbappe’s growing presence is felt everywhere and that he is probably more famous among football fans in India than in France. While addressing the Indian diaspora at the packed La Seine Musicale, Modi called Mbappe a ‘Superhit’ among Indian youth. "French football player Kylian Mbappe is superhit among the youth in India. Mbappe is probably known to more people in India than in France," said PM Modi during his address. Following Mbappe’s rise on the international scene since helping his first senior club, AS Monaco, reach the Champions League semis in 2017, rivals Paris Saint Germain (PSG) bought the young French striker on board on loan for a season before sealing his long-term deal for £166 million in 2018. ALSO READ: Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic joins Serie A side AC Milan on four-year contract The same year, Mbappe became a household name after winning the home World Cup with France at just 18 years old. By that time, the former Barcelona winger and star player Neymar had also joined PSG, while a few years later, in 2021, seven-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi completed the trio at the French club by joining PSG on a two-year deal. During the FIFA World Cup in Qatar last year, Mbappe starred for France again, helping the side reach the finals on successive occasions. Up against Lionel Messi’s Argentina, Mbappe brought his A-game by scoring a World Cup Final hat-trick, a rare achievement. Though his team fell shy of winning back-to-back WCs, Mbappe won the Golden Boot for his eight goals in the 2022 edition – one ahead of Messi, who scored seven. With the growing craze of European football in India in the past decade and with millions across the country watching the 2022 World Cup Finale, Mbappe’s amazing feat helped him gain enormous popularity in India. Mbappe’s club Future stays in limbo The star striker is on the radar of many top clubs across Europe, with Champions League giants Real Madrid the favourite to bag his services. Following the fallout last season when Mbappe was alleged to have agreed to personal terms with the Spanish club but did a u-turn last moment, Madrid is again back in the race to bag his services. While nothing concrete is out from both end, latest reports suggest a final decision around the same will be made official soon. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

PM Narendra Modi lauds 'Superhit' French striker Kylian Mbappe, says he's more popular in India than in France

<p>On the day Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in France to kick off his two-day visit, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning the ruling government over the Manipur violence and urged them to protect the rights of the minorities.</p>

<p>“MEPs [Members of the European Parliament] call on the Indian authorities to allow independent investigations to look into the violence, to tackle impunity and to lift the internet ban,” the legislators in the resolution stated.</p>

<p>The resolution denounced “in the strongest terms nationalistic rhetoric deployed by leading members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)”.</p>

<p>Hours later, India sharply slammed the European leaders, and asked them not to interfere in its internal matters and added that proper steps are being taken to ensure peace in the northeastern state.</p>

<p>The debate on the Manipur clashes was added to the parliament agenda on Wednesday to discuss about cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law during its ongoing plenary session in Strasbourg, France.</p>

<h2><strong>'India&nbsp;promoting Hindu majoritarianism'</strong></h2>

<p>The resolution highlighted the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’s concern in October 2020 in which it had urged the Indian government to safeguard the rights of human rights defenders, shrinking space for civil society and the accusations made by human rights organisations against the BJP of “divisive ethno-nationalistic policies.”</p>

<p>The resolution said that there have been concerns about “politically motivated, divisive policies that promote Hindu majoritarianism in the area”.</p>

<p>“Whereas violence in India’s Manipur state has erupted along ethnic and religious lines between the mainly Hindu Meitei community and the Christian Kuki tribe, leading to a cycle of violence with over 100 people killed, over 40,000 displaced and the destruction of property and places of worship,” the resolution said.</p>

<p>“Whereas Manipur has previously faced secessionist insurgencies in which serious human rights abuses were committed. Whereas, in the latest round of violence human rights groups have accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led government in Manipur and nationally of implementing divisive ethno-nationalistic policies which oppress in particular religious minorities.”</p>

<h2>India's Manipur state on the boil, Internet snapped since first week of May&nbsp;</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-manipur-state-on-the-boil-internet-has-been-snapped-since-first-week-of-may-details-611233/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>New Delhi's response</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to the resolution, Indian Ministry of External Affair's official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that the debate reflects Europe's "colonial mindset", and told them to stop meddling in India's internal matters.</p>

<p>"We have seen that the European Parliament held a discussion on developments in Manipur and adopted a so-called Urgency Resolution. Such interference in India's internal affairs is unacceptable and reflects a colonial mindset."</p>

<p>"Indian authorities at all levels, including the judiciary, are seized of the situation in Manipur and are taking steps to maintain peace and harmony and law and order.&nbsp;The European Parliament would be well advised to utilize its time more productively on its internal&nbsp;issues,” he said</p>

<h2><strong>Manipur violence</strong></h2>

<p>Violent ethnic clashes between the Kuki and majority Meitei communities since May 3 have paralysed the state, as widespread violence and arson continue to deepen the crisis. At least 150 people have been killed and nearly 60,000 have been displaced.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


On the day Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in France to kick off his two-day visit, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning the ruling government over the Manipur violence and urged them to protect the rights of the minorities.

On the day Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in France to kick off his two-day visit, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning the ruling government over the Manipur violence and urged them to protect the rights of the minorities. “MEPs [Members of the European Parliament] call on the Indian authorities to allow independent investigations to look into the violence, to tackle impunity and to lift the internet ban,” the legislators in the resolution stated. The resolution denounced “in the strongest terms nationalistic rhetoric deployed by leading members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)”. Hours later, India sharply slammed the European leaders, and asked them not to interfere in its internal matters and added that proper steps are being taken to ensure peace in the northeastern state. The debate on the Manipur clashes was added to the parliament agenda on Wednesday to discuss about cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law during its ongoing plenary session in Strasbourg, France. 'India promoting Hindu majoritarianism' The resolution highlighted the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’s concern in October 2020 in which it had urged the Indian government to safeguard the rights of human rights defenders, shrinking space for civil society and the accusations made by human rights organisations against the BJP of “divisive ethno-nationalistic policies.” The resolution said that there have been concerns about “politically motivated, divisive policies that promote Hindu majoritarianism in the area”. “Whereas violence in India’s Manipur state has erupted along ethnic and religious lines between the mainly Hindu Meitei community and the Christian Kuki tribe, leading to a cycle of violence with over 100 people killed, over 40,000 displaced and the destruction of property and places of worship,” the resolution said. “Whereas Manipur has previously faced secessionist insurgencies in which serious human rights abuses were committed. Whereas, in the latest round of violence human rights groups have accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led government in Manipur and nationally of implementing divisive ethno-nationalistic policies which oppress in particular religious minorities.” India's Manipur state on the boil, Internet snapped since first week of May New Delhi's response Responding to the resolution, Indian Ministry of External Affair's official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that the debate reflects Europe's "colonial mindset", and told them to stop meddling in India's internal matters. "We have seen that the European Parliament held a discussion on developments in Manipur and adopted a so-called Urgency Resolution. Such interference in India's internal affairs is unacceptable and reflects a colonial mindset." "Indian authorities at all levels, including the judiciary, are seized of the situation in Manipur and are taking steps to maintain peace and harmony and law and order. The European Parliament would be well advised to utilize its time more productively on its internal issues,” he said Manipur violence Violent ethnic clashes between the Kuki and majority Meitei communities since May 3 have paralysed the state, as widespread violence and arson continue to deepen the crisis. At least 150 people have been killed and nearly 60,000 have been displaced. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

EU Parliament condemns India over Manipur violence, New Delhi slams 'colonial mindset'

<p dir="ltr">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to France to attend the Bastille Day parade marks a significant milestone in the strengthening relationship between India and France. This is the second time that an Indian leader has been invited as the 'Guest of Honour' to the parade, which is a major event in the French national calendar.</p>

<p dir="ltr">While the visit is an opportunity for PM Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss a range of bilateral issues including defence, trade, and investment, it also celebrates the historical and cultural ties shared by the two countries.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The India-France relationship, which has been steadily strengthening in the recent years, has a long and rich history. From defence cooperation to trade ties and climate action, India and France have worked together on a host of global issues.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit also coincides with the celebration of 25 years of the strategic partnership between India and France. In 1998, the then-French president Jacques Chirac visited India, and the two nations agreed to develop their respective strategic independence by drawing on concrete bilateral cooperation.</p>

<p dir="ltr">One of the key things that bind these two democracies together is also their commitment to promote a multipolar world and defend multilateralism and international law.</p>

<p dir="ltr">As the two countries write a new chapter in strategic partnership, here are six reasons that make France India's top partner in Europe:</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>1) Historical ties:</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">The participation of the Indian tri-services contingent at this year's Bastille Day parade is testimony to more than a century-old affiliation and the bond between both the armies. According to India's defence ministry, over 1.3 million Indian soldiers (both from British India and French India) had participated in the World War I. Several of these soldiers fought shoulder-to-shoulder with&nbsp; France's troops in the treacherous trenches on the French soil.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Indian Memorial at the Neuve Chapelle in northern France, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage during his visit in 2015, commemorates over 4,700 Indian soldiers and labourers who lost their lives on the Western Front during Great War.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>2) Defence partnership:</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">Although France became India's second-largest defence supplier from&nbsp;<a id="LPlnk184590">2017-2021</a>, it has been a reliable partner for India in the military aircraft domain since the 1950s. From the procurement of the first-generation the Dassault Ouragan fighter, named 'Toofani' in the Indian Air Force (IAF), to the recent submarine and Rafale-M deal — the defence sector has emerged as a crucial pillar of the India-France relationship.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The Dassault Mirage 2000s, which were received in 1985, continue to be India's go-to aircraft whenever it calls for an air strike. The super fighters proved to be a gamechanger as they pounded Pakistani positions on the Kargil hilltops during the 1999 war. The Mirages were also used to carry out airstrikes in Pakistan's Balakot in 2019.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Moreover, France has also been instrumental in assisting India's defence modernisation efforts through technology transfers, enabling indigenous production capabilities, and joint ventures.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi In France: Indian PM lands in Paris for 2-day visit ahead of Bastille Day</strong></h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-in-france-indian-pm-lands-in-paris-for-2-day-visit-ahead-of-bastille-day-615132/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>3) Supporting India's interests:</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">France was one of the first P5 countries to stand firmly with India while the world turned away in the wake of Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998, conducted under the prime ministership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Defying the US-led sanctions, France was also among the first countries to sign a civil nuclear pact with India.</p>

<p dir="ltr">In August 2019, after Article 370 was repealed in Jammu and Kashmir, France maintained its position that the abrogation of the special status was India's internal matter.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Moreover, France has reiterated its support for India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and for its accession to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), referring to New Delhi as a "major player" in the global arena.</p>

<p dir="ltr">In addition to publicly condemning terrorism, France and India have also pledged to work with the UN to adopt the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>4) Strategic ties:</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">The relations between New Delhi and Paris is also cherished by a shared desire for strategic autonomy and respect for sovereignty of nations.</p>

<p dir="ltr">In September 2022, India and France agreed to set up an Indo-Pacific trilateral framework to roll out development projects, and expand strategic cooperation, amid challenges posed by Beijing in the region. During the meeting, French foreign minister Catherine Colonna highlighted how both France and India share the same concerns over China's growing influence and their commitment to ensure there was "no imbalance".</p>

<p dir="ltr">Earlier this year, France led a multilateral exercise 'La Pérouse' with the navies of Quad countries - India, US, Australia , Japan- and the UK in the strategic Indian Ocean region, where China is trying to get foothold after wresting control of the strategic Hambantota port in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p dir="ltr">A recent strategic agreement between France and India also allows both countries' warships access to the other's naval stations across the Indian Ocean. The Indian Navy now has access to significant French ports, including one in Djibouti, the location of China's sole overseas military installation.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>5) Economic Cooperation:</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">France is the 11th largest foreign investor in India, with a total FDI stock of USD 10,389 million from April 2000 to September 2022. With over 1,000 French businesses operating in India and doing business to the tune of USD 20 billion, the two nations' bilateral trade is currently valued at EUR 10.7 billion. In France, more than 200 Indian businesses are operating with a EUR 1 billion investment stock.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-eu-parliament-slams-india-over-manipur-violence-new-delhi-retorts-615174">Ahead of PM Modi’s visit, EU Parliament slams India over Manipur Violence</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">According to India Brand Equity Foundation, 39 of 40 companies listed on the French stock exchange are conducting their business operations in India. The signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would significantly give an impetus to trade.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>6) Climate Cooperation:</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">India and France have forged a strong partnership to tackle climate change and promote renewable energy and international cooperation for a sustainable future. The International Solar Alliance, launched jointly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and former French president François Hollande during COP21, marked a key global milestone in scaling up solar energy, and reducing the cost of solar power generation.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |</strong> I<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-approves-purchase-of-26-rafale-jets-3-scorpene-submarines-from-france-615054">ndia approves purchase of 26 Rafale jets, 3 Scorpene submarines from France</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">The treaty-based international intergovernmental organisation, which has its secretariat near New Delhi, now has 114 Member and Signatory countries sharing their best practices and mobilising investments for a carbon-neutral future.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to France to attend the Bastille Day parade marks a significant milestone in the strengthening relationship between India and France.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to France to attend the Bastille Day parade marks a significant milestone in the strengthening relationship between India and France. This is the second time that an Indian leader has been invited as the 'Guest of Honour' to the parade, which is a major event in the French national calendar. While the visit is an opportunity for PM Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss a range of bilateral issues including defence, trade, and investment, it also celebrates the historical and cultural ties shared by the two countries. The India-France relationship, which has been steadily strengthening in the recent years, has a long and rich history. From defence cooperation to trade ties and climate action, India and France have worked together on a host of global issues. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit also coincides with the celebration of 25 years of the strategic partnership between India and France. In 1998, the then-French president Jacques Chirac visited India, and the two nations agreed to develop their respective strategic independence by drawing on concrete bilateral cooperation. One of the key things that bind these two democracies together is also their commitment to promote a multipolar world and defend multilateralism and international law. As the two countries write a new chapter in strategic partnership, here are six reasons that make France India's top partner in Europe: 1) Historical ties: The participation of the Indian tri-services contingent at this year's Bastille Day parade is testimony to more than a century-old affiliation and the bond between both the armies. According to India's defence ministry, over 1.3 million Indian soldiers (both from British India and French India) had participated in the World War I. Several of these soldiers fought shoulder-to-shoulder with France's troops in the treacherous trenches on the French soil. The Indian Memorial at the Neuve Chapelle in northern France, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage during his visit in 2015, commemorates over 4,700 Indian soldiers and labourers who lost their lives on the Western Front during Great War. 2) Defence partnership: Although France became India's second-largest defence supplier from 2017-2021, it has been a reliable partner for India in the military aircraft domain since the 1950s. From the procurement of the first-generation the Dassault Ouragan fighter, named 'Toofani' in the Indian Air Force (IAF), to the recent submarine and Rafale-M deal — the defence sector has emerged as a crucial pillar of the India-France relationship. The Dassault Mirage 2000s, which were received in 1985, continue to be India's go-to aircraft whenever it calls for an air strike. The super fighters proved to be a gamechanger as they pounded Pakistani positions on the Kargil hilltops during the 1999 war. The Mirages were also used to carry out airstrikes in Pakistan's Balakot in 2019. Moreover, France has also been instrumental in assisting India's defence modernisation efforts through technology transfers, enabling indigenous production capabilities, and joint ventures. PM Modi In France: Indian PM lands in Paris for 2-day visit ahead of Bastille Day 3) Supporting India's interests: France was one of the first P5 countries to stand firmly with India while the world turned away in the wake of Pokhran nuclear tests of 1998, conducted under the prime ministership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Defying the US-led sanctions, France was also among the first countries to sign a civil nuclear pact with India. In August 2019, after Article 370 was repealed in Jammu and Kashmir, France maintained its position that the abrogation of the special status was India's internal matter. Moreover, France has reiterated its support for India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and for its accession to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), referring to New Delhi as a "major player" in the global arena. In addition to publicly condemning terrorism, France and India have also pledged to work with the UN to adopt the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT). 4) Strategic ties: The relations between New Delhi and Paris is also cherished by a shared desire for strategic autonomy and respect for sovereignty of nations. In September 2022, India and France agreed to set up an Indo-Pacific trilateral framework to roll out development projects, and expand strategic cooperation, amid challenges posed by Beijing in the region. During the meeting, French foreign minister Catherine Colonna highlighted how both France and India share the same concerns over China's growing influence and their commitment to ensure there was "no imbalance". Earlier this year, France led a multilateral exercise 'La Pérouse' with the navies of Quad countries - India, US, Australia , Japan- and the UK in the strategic Indian Ocean region, where China is trying to get foothold after wresting control of the strategic Hambantota port in Sri Lanka. A recent strategic agreement between France and India also allows both countries' warships access to the other's naval stations across the Indian Ocean. The Indian Navy now has access to significant French ports, including one in Djibouti, the location of China's sole overseas military installation. 5) Economic Cooperation: France is the 11th largest foreign investor in India, with a total FDI stock of USD 10,389 million from April 2000 to September 2022. With over 1,000 French businesses operating in India and doing business to the tune of USD 20 billion, the two nations' bilateral trade is currently valued at EUR 10.7 billion. In France, more than 200 Indian businesses are operating with a EUR 1 billion investment stock. Also read | Ahead of PM Modi’s visit, EU Parliament slams India over Manipur Violence According to India Brand Equity Foundation, 39 of 40 companies listed on the French stock exchange are conducting their business operations in India. The signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would significantly give an impetus to trade. 6) Climate Cooperation: India and France have forged a strong partnership to tackle climate change and promote renewable energy and international cooperation for a sustainable future. The International Solar Alliance, launched jointly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and former French president François Hollande during COP21, marked a key global milestone in scaling up solar energy, and reducing the cost of solar power generation. Also read | India approves purchase of 26 Rafale jets, 3 Scorpene submarines from France The treaty-based international intergovernmental organisation, which has its secretariat near New Delhi, now has 114 Member and Signatory countries sharing their best practices and mobilising investments for a carbon-neutral future. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

French Connection: 6 reasons why France is India's top partner in Europe

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on a crucial visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week as part of his broader diplomatic tour that will see him travel to France.</p>

<p>The PM will be in France on July 13 and will be the chief guest at the Bastille Day parade.</p>

<p>The UAE visit marks PM Modi's fifth trip to the Gulf country since assuming office in 2014 and underscores the growing significance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.</p>

<p>He has been to UAE in June 2022, August 2019, February 2018, and August 2015.</p>

<p>During his previous visit in June 2022, Prime Minister Modi met Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President and ruler of Abu Dhabi, to express condolences on the passing of former President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.</p>

<p>This gesture showcased the deepening personal rapport between the leaders and their commitment to further enhancing ties between India and the UAE.</p>

<p>The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and the UAE last year has played a pivotal role in boosting bilateral trade.</p>

<p>Over the past year, the agreement has had a significant impact on India's exports to the UAE, both in terms of oil and non-oil products. The trade volume between the two nations has reached historic highs, surging from $72.9 billion in the fiscal year 2021-2022 to $84.5 billion in the fiscal year 2022-2023, marking a remarkable year-on-year increase of 16 per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-video-shows-doomsday-shelf-cloud-formation-over-haridwar-what-is-it-614346"><strong>I</strong>ndia: Video shows ‘Doomsday’ shelf cloud formation over Haridwar. What is it?</a></p>

<p>In addition to economic cooperation, defence interaction between India and the UAE has witnessed steady growth. Regular exchanges at the highest levels, including service chiefs, functional-level engagements, and military education exchanges, have further strengthened bilateral defence cooperation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/do-you-know-which-countries-have-worlds-strongest-military-this-is-where-india-stands-614344">Do you know which countries have world’s strongest military? This is where India stands</a></p>

<p>Both countries have regularly conducted joint naval exercises and port calls, fostering mutual trust and camaraderie among their armed forces. An annual defence dialogue provides a platform to discuss and enhance security and defence cooperation between India&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp; UAE.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on a crucial visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week as part of his broader diplomatic tour that will see him travel to France.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to embark on a crucial visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week as part of his broader diplomatic tour that will see him travel to France. The PM will be in France on July 13 and will be the chief guest at the Bastille Day parade. The UAE visit marks PM Modi's fifth trip to the Gulf country since assuming office in 2014 and underscores the growing significance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations. He has been to UAE in June 2022, August 2019, February 2018, and August 2015. During his previous visit in June 2022, Prime Minister Modi met Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President and ruler of Abu Dhabi, to express condolences on the passing of former President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This gesture showcased the deepening personal rapport between the leaders and their commitment to further enhancing ties between India and the UAE. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and the UAE last year has played a pivotal role in boosting bilateral trade. Over the past year, the agreement has had a significant impact on India's exports to the UAE, both in terms of oil and non-oil products. The trade volume between the two nations has reached historic highs, surging from $72.9 billion in the fiscal year 2021-2022 to $84.5 billion in the fiscal year 2022-2023, marking a remarkable year-on-year increase of 16 per cent. Also read | India: Video shows ‘Doomsday’ shelf cloud formation over Haridwar. What is it? In addition to economic cooperation, defence interaction between India and the UAE has witnessed steady growth. Regular exchanges at the highest levels, including service chiefs, functional-level engagements, and military education exchanges, have further strengthened bilateral defence cooperation. Also read | Do you know which countries have world’s strongest military? This is where India stands Both countries have regularly conducted joint naval exercises and port calls, fostering mutual trust and camaraderie among their armed forces. An annual defence dialogue provides a platform to discuss and enhance security and defence cooperation between India and the UAE. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit UAE this week

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to sign a deal to purchase 26 Dassault Rafale-Maritime (M) fighter jets from France for the navy for operations onboard aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. Reportedly, the deal will be finalised during PM &nbsp;Modi's crucial visit to Paris this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deal will also include a repeat order of at least three Scorpene-class diesel-electric 'killer-hunter' conventional submarines, media outlets reported quoting people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports have mentioned that Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will convene a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on July 13, before PM Modi leaves for France.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ins-kirpan-arrives-in-vietnam-to-be-handed-over-to-vietnamese-navy-in-july-end-613588">INS Kirpan arrives in Vietnam, to be handed over to Vietnamese Navy by July end</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The meeting will be aimed at granting Acceptance of Necessity (AON) to the Indian navy to acquire Rafale-M fighters and give a go-ahead to the building of Kalveri class submarines at the Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Details about the terms and conditions and negotiations will be known once the government-to-government deal is done.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>IAF's Rafale jets to take part in France's Bastille Day parade</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Indian prime minister will be in France on July 13-14 and will be the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day Parade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Three Rafale fighter jets of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will take part in the flypast over the Champs Elysees, Paris along with other French Air assets in July, the release revealed. A tri-services contingent is also set to participate in the parade along with their French counterparts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-what-is-soft-landing-will-indias-lunar-mission-achieve-this-feat-this-time-613623">Chandrayaan-3: What is soft landing? Will India's lunar mission achieve this feat this time?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>India and France confirmed in May that PM Modi will join French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris for France's Bastille Day military parade on July 14, the two countries said in a joint statement Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron's Elysee Palace office had said that Modi's presence and the participation of Indian forces in the parade would mark "a new phase in the strategic partnership between France and India".&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that the two nations would "set new objectives for strategic, cultural, scientific, academic and economic cooperation, including in a large number of industrial sectors".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Indian startup funding struggles: VC investments decrease, caution for growth stage firms&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-startup-funding-struggles-vc-investments-decrease-caution-for-growth-stage-firms-613709/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>What is Bastille Day?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Bastille Day is the national day of France, which is marked annually on July 14. It is formally called the Fête nationale française and legally it is known as le 14 juillet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Celebrations are held across the nation on the day observed as the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille in 1789 — a major event of the French Revolution. It is also a day to remember the unity of the French people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to sign a deal to purchase 26 Dassault Rafale-Maritime (M) fighter jets from France for the navy for operations onboard aircraft carrier INS Vikrant.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to sign a deal to purchase 26 Dassault Rafale-Maritime (M) fighter jets from France for the navy for operations onboard aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. Reportedly, the deal will be finalised during PM Modi's crucial visit to Paris this week. The deal will also include a repeat order of at least three Scorpene-class diesel-electric 'killer-hunter' conventional submarines, media outlets reported quoting people familiar with the matter. Reports have mentioned that Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will convene a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on July 13, before PM Modi leaves for France. Also read: INS Kirpan arrives in Vietnam, to be handed over to Vietnamese Navy by July end The meeting will be aimed at granting Acceptance of Necessity (AON) to the Indian navy to acquire Rafale-M fighters and give a go-ahead to the building of Kalveri class submarines at the Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL). Details about the terms and conditions and negotiations will be known once the government-to-government deal is done. IAF's Rafale jets to take part in France's Bastille Day parade The Indian prime minister will be in France on July 13-14 and will be the Guest of Honour at the Bastille Day Parade. Three Rafale fighter jets of the Indian Air Force (IAF) will take part in the flypast over the Champs Elysees, Paris along with other French Air assets in July, the release revealed. A tri-services contingent is also set to participate in the parade along with their French counterparts. Also read: Chandrayaan-3: What is soft landing? Will India's lunar mission achieve this feat this time? India and France confirmed in May that PM Modi will join French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris for France's Bastille Day military parade on July 14, the two countries said in a joint statement Friday. Macron's Elysee Palace office had said that Modi's presence and the participation of Indian forces in the parade would mark "a new phase in the strategic partnership between France and India". It added that the two nations would "set new objectives for strategic, cultural, scientific, academic and economic cooperation, including in a large number of industrial sectors". Watch: Indian startup funding struggles: VC investments decrease, caution for growth stage firms × What is Bastille Day? Bastille Day is the national day of France, which is marked annually on July 14. It is formally called the Fête nationale française and legally it is known as le 14 juillet. Celebrations are held across the nation on the day observed as the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille in 1789 — a major event of the French Revolution. It is also a day to remember the unity of the French people. (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 to get more Rafales? PM Modi likely to sign Rafale-Marine jets deal for navy during France visit

<p>The year was 1984. Nearly half of all Indians lived in poverty. India was still seven years away from being a free-market economy. Internally, simmering tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Assam states were beginning to erupt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Today’s fifth largest economy of the world was not in an aspirational shape about four decades ago. But Mithun Chakraborty-starrer&nbsp;‘Disco Dancer’ (1982) was a big hit in the Soviet Union with <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1272864543056642049">reportedly</a> 120 million tickets sold.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="A poster of Indian actor Mithun Chakraborty-starrer 'Disco Dancer' in Russian | Twitter/@RusEmbIndia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca54529c-0670-41c8-a66d-8f7d36d416a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-09T122027.561.png" /></p>

<p><em>A poster of Indian actor Mithun Chakraborty-starrer 'Disco Dancer' in Russian</em> | <em>Twitter/@RusEmbIndia</em></p>

<p>Then on one remarkable day in the spring of 1984, the then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi appeared on state broadcaster Doordarshan. Over the satellite link emerged Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian person in space, who began speaking from a Soviet spacecraft. Alongside him were five other members of the Soyuz T-11 space mission, all Soviet nationals.</p>

<p>Gandhi asked Sharma: “What does India look like from space?”</p>

<p>Sharma replied by quoting poet Iqbal’s famous composition: “<em>Ji main baghair kisi jhijhak se keh sakta hu, saare jahan se achha…</em>” (Without any doubt, better than the whole world.)<br />
<br />
It was one rare moment of collective national pride which the Indians of 1984 witnessed due to New Delhi’s close ties with Moscow.<br />
<img alt="Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, flight engineer Gennady Strekalov and commander Yury Malyshev alongside screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="99837563-b157-41e6-81b1-b53696c0ce06" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-09T123411.047.png" /></p>

<p><em>Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma (centre), flight engineer Gennady Strekalov (L) and commander Yury Malyshev (R) alongside the screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma |&nbsp;spacefacts.de/YouTube via Indian National Congress</em></p>

<section>
<p>One wonders how the millions of Indians — after they saw five Soviet nationals sitting beside their country’s first person in space — perceived the Soviets back then, if not as genuine friends of their nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The “generous collaboration” between India and Soviet Union — as Prime Minister Indira Gandhi termed the Soyuz T-11 space mission — was one of the most significant milestones in India's space journey. Rakesh Sharma going to space was&nbsp;the initial leap in the&nbsp;remarkable marathon of accomplishments that the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) heralded in upcoming decades.</p>
</section>

<h2><strong>Moscow’s counter to the Washington-Islamabad-Beijing axis in India’s favour</strong></h2>

<p>India and the Soviet Union signed a comprehensive treaty of ‘Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ on&nbsp;August 9,&nbsp;1971, the 29th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi-led ‘Quit India Movement’ for India’s freedom from the British.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Months later in December 1971, at the peak of the Bangladesh Liberation War, the then US President Richard Nixon’s administration deployed Task Force 74 of the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet in the Bay of Bengal to prevent India from overrunning Pakistan. In response, the Soviets deployed two groups of cruisers and destroyers as well as a submarine armed with nuclear warheads in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Moscow-Delhi partnership robustly countered the Washington-Beijing-Islamabad axis.</p>

<p>On December 5, 1971, the United States – sidelining the Pakistani military’s ferocious atrocities against people of present-day Bangladesh – made attempts for a UN-sponsored ceasefire. It was vetoed by the Soviet Union, twice.</p>

<p>A day later on December 6, 1971,&nbsp;India recognised Bangladesh as an independent nation.</p>

<p>Exactly 10 years before in 1961, when New Delhi liberated the Indian state of Goa from the colonial occupation of Portugal — a NATO ally — the erstwhile Soviet Union vetoed a UN security council resolution proposed by Portugal that asked India to withdraw its forces from Goa.</p>

<p>Over the decades India's military cooperation with the Soviet Union and then with Russia evolved from a buyer-seller framework to one involving joint research, development and production of advanced defence technologies and systems, reflecting the economic distance New Delhi travelled since its freedom from the British in 1947.</p>

<h2><strong>India-Russia ties: Generational goodwill cultivated over decades</strong></h2>

<p>In the 1970s, the West led by the United States — especially under US President Richard Nixon’s administration — was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/henry-kissinger-a-crooked-legacy-597010">remarkably anti-India</a> and notoriously pro-Pakistan and consciously fostered an Ivy League of jihadist organisations in India’s neighbourhood.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-tapes-reveal-former-us-president-richard-nixons-hatred-towards-indians-325427">New tapes reveal former US president Richard Nixon's 'hatred' towards Indians</a></strong></p>

<p>Indians carry with them a historical memory of a difficult past when economic growth was stagnant, prosperity was scarce and New Delhi consistently felt geopolitically cornered by the West.</p>

<p>During those moments, Indians found the Soviets beside them just like they saw five Soviet nationals alongside Rakesh Sharma on that spacecraft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indians do not suffer from historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about a time — even as they march on to become the world’s third-largest economy in the next five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Between India and Russia, there is a generational goodwill cultivated over decades that remains least shaken even after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s imposition of the war on Ukraine.</p>

<p>Despite the optics of New Delhi’s opposition to the war in Ukraine, such as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-condemns-bucha-killings-supports-independent-investigation-468799">strongly-worded</a> “support [for] the call for an independent investigation” into alleged Russian atrocities in the Ukrainian town of Bucha early on during the war, a form of anti-Russia sentiment in New Delhi is almost non-existent.</p>

<p>This was best reflected during Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov’s New Delhi visit in March 2023, when a mostly Indian crowd at Raisina dialogues laughed as Lavrov claimed Russia was “trying to stop the war which was launched against us”. They subsequently applauded when Lavrov asked what the US and NATO were doing in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya.</p>

<p><img alt="Sergey Lavrov in New Delhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="67babf3f-c682-4d1a-b10d-a82b98b17c85" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-07-09T131941.720.png" /></p>

<p><em>Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov at Observer Research Foundation's Raisina 2023 dialogue in March 2023 | Mukul Sharma/WION</em></p>

<p>A Russian foreign minister, given Moscow’s scale of offensive in Ukraine, cannot expect such a reception in any other Washington-aligned capital but New Delhi.</p>

<p>(<em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer</strong></em>)</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The year was 1984. Nearly half of all Indians lived in poverty. India was still seven years away from being a free-market economy. Internally, simmering tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Assam states were beginning to erupt.

The year was 1984. Nearly half of all Indians lived in poverty. India was still seven years away from being a free-market economy. Internally, simmering tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Assam states were beginning to erupt. Today’s fifth largest economy of the world was not in an aspirational shape about four decades ago. But Mithun Chakraborty-starrer ‘Disco Dancer’ (1982) was a big hit in the Soviet Union with reportedly 120 million tickets sold. A poster of Indian actor Mithun Chakraborty-starrer 'Disco Dancer' in Russian | Twitter/@RusEmbIndia Then on one remarkable day in the spring of 1984, the then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi appeared on state broadcaster Doordarshan. Over the satellite link emerged Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, the first Indian person in space, who began speaking from a Soviet spacecraft. Alongside him were five other members of the Soyuz T-11 space mission, all Soviet nationals. Gandhi asked Sharma: “What does India look like from space?” Sharma replied by quoting poet Iqbal’s famous composition: “Ji main baghair kisi jhijhak se keh sakta hu, saare jahan se achha…” (Without any doubt, better than the whole world.) It was one rare moment of collective national pride which the Indians of 1984 witnessed due to New Delhi’s close ties with Moscow. Indian Air Force's Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma (centre), flight engineer Gennady Strekalov (L) and commander Yury Malyshev (R) alongside the screengrabs of the-then Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's interaction with Rakesh Sharma | spacefacts.de/YouTube via Indian National Congress One wonders how the millions of Indians — after they saw five Soviet nationals sitting beside their country’s first person in space — perceived the Soviets back then, if not as genuine friends of their nation. The “generous collaboration” between India and Soviet Union — as Prime Minister Indira Gandhi termed the Soyuz T-11 space mission — was one of the most significant milestones in India's space journey. Rakesh Sharma going to space was the initial leap in the remarkable marathon of accomplishments that the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) heralded in upcoming decades. Moscow’s counter to the Washington-Islamabad-Beijing axis in India’s favour India and the Soviet Union signed a comprehensive treaty of ‘Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ on August 9, 1971, the 29th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi-led ‘Quit India Movement’ for India’s freedom from the British. Months later in December 1971, at the peak of the Bangladesh Liberation War, the then US President Richard Nixon’s administration deployed Task Force 74 of the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet in the Bay of Bengal to prevent India from overrunning Pakistan. In response, the Soviets deployed two groups of cruisers and destroyers as well as a submarine armed with nuclear warheads in the region. The Moscow-Delhi partnership robustly countered the Washington-Beijing-Islamabad axis. On December 5, 1971, the United States – sidelining the Pakistani military’s ferocious atrocities against people of present-day Bangladesh – made attempts for a UN-sponsored ceasefire. It was vetoed by the Soviet Union, twice. A day later on December 6, 1971, India recognised Bangladesh as an independent nation. Exactly 10 years before in 1961, when New Delhi liberated the Indian state of Goa from the colonial occupation of Portugal — a NATO ally — the erstwhile Soviet Union vetoed a UN security council resolution proposed by Portugal that asked India to withdraw its forces from Goa. Over the decades India's military cooperation with the Soviet Union and then with Russia evolved from a buyer-seller framework to one involving joint research, development and production of advanced defence technologies and systems, reflecting the economic distance New Delhi travelled since its freedom from the British in 1947. India-Russia ties: Generational goodwill cultivated over decades In the 1970s, the West led by the United States — especially under US President Richard Nixon’s administration — was remarkably anti-India and notoriously pro-Pakistan and consciously fostered an Ivy League of jihadist organisations in India’s neighbourhood. Also read | New tapes reveal former US president Richard Nixon's 'hatred' towards Indians Indians carry with them a historical memory of a difficult past when economic growth was stagnant, prosperity was scarce and New Delhi consistently felt geopolitically cornered by the West. During those moments, Indians found the Soviets beside them just like they saw five Soviet nationals alongside Rakesh Sharma on that spacecraft. Indians do not suffer from historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about a time — even as they march on to become the world’s third-largest economy in the next five years. Between India and Russia, there is a generational goodwill cultivated over decades that remains least shaken even after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s imposition of the war on Ukraine. Despite the optics of New Delhi’s opposition to the war in Ukraine, such as a strongly-worded “support [for] the call for an independent investigation” into alleged Russian atrocities in the Ukrainian town of Bucha early on during the war, a form of anti-Russia sentiment in New Delhi is almost non-existent. This was best reflected during Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov’s New Delhi visit in March 2023, when a mostly Indian crowd at Raisina dialogues laughed as Lavrov claimed Russia was “trying to stop the war which was launched against us”. They subsequently applauded when Lavrov asked what the US and NATO were doing in Iraq, Afghanistan and Libya. Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov at Observer Research Foundation's Raisina 2023 dialogue in March 2023 | Mukul Sharma/WION A Russian foreign minister, given Moscow’s scale of offensive in Ukraine, cannot expect such a reception in any other Washington-aligned capital but New Delhi. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer) 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’s actions in Ukraine do not make Indians anti-Russia. Here’s why

<p>Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra is set to travel to Sri Lanka in the coming week to make arrangements for President Ranil Wickremesinghe's visit to New Delhi on July 20, as reported by the Daily Mirror.</p>

<p>This visit will mark President Wickremesinghe's first official trip to India since assuming office last year. Notable individuals accompanying the president on the visit include Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda, Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera, Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabry, and Chief of President's Staff Sagala Ratnayake.</p>

<p>During the visit, President Wickremesinghe is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka's political situation remains uncertain, as President Wickremesinghe has yet to call for a general election and honour the mandate given to Gotabaya Rajapaksa until November 2024. Meanwhile, the country's economic situation likely needs some more time for improvement, especially with the upcoming release of the second tranche of a USD 2.9 billion loan package from the IMF at the end of this year, reported the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Net debtor status and external liabilities</strong></h2>

<p>Sri Lanka continues to be a net debtor country with substantial external liabilities and depleted external assets.</p>

<p>According to an IMF report, the country's net external liabilities significantly increased from an average of 51 per cent of GDP during 2017-2018 to 74 per cent of GDP in the third quarter of 2022.</p>

<p>This rise was mainly due to a surge in gross external liabilities, which increased from 64 to 86 per cent of GDP, driven by high government borrowing and significant depreciation of the rupee, particularly in 2022.</p>

<p>Gross external assets declined from 15 per cent of GDP in 2019 to 11.7 per cent of GDP in 2022.</p>

<p>Foreign Direct Investment accounted for approximately 25 per cent of the external liabilities, while other investments such as debt portfolios and bank loans accounted for about 60 per cent.</p>

<p>The government holds the majority share of the total external debt liabilities, making up 70 per cent.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chasing-growth-sri-lanka-unleashes-second-round-of-interest-rate-cuts-612536/amp">Chasing Growth: Sri Lanka unleashes second round of interest rate cuts</a></p>

<h2><strong>Debt owed to India, Japan, and China</strong></h2>

<p>During the political and economic crisis last year, India provided emergency aid to Sri Lanka, with a remaining outstanding balance of around USD 3 billion.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Netherlands set to return treasures looted from Sri Lanka &amp; Indonesia</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/netherlands-set-to-return-treasures-looted-from-sri-lanka-indonesia-613172/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Additionally, Sri Lanka owes significant amounts to Japan and China, particularly due to loans for infrastructure projects associated with the Rajapaksa administration, reported the Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>The terms of the agreements were changed in 2017 by Ranil Wickremesinghe, leading to the leasing of the Hambantota deep seaport to China for a duration of 99 years.</p>

<p>Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe is scheduled to travel to China in October to attend the Belt and Road Initiative and meet with President Xi Jinping.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra is set to travel to Sri Lanka in the coming week to make arrangements for President Ranil Wickremesinghe's visit to New Delhi on July 20, as reported by the Daily Mirror.

Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra is set to travel to Sri Lanka in the coming week to make arrangements for President Ranil Wickremesinghe's visit to New Delhi on July 20, as reported by the Daily Mirror. This visit will mark President Wickremesinghe's first official trip to India since assuming office last year. Notable individuals accompanying the president on the visit include Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda, Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera, Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabry, and Chief of President's Staff Sagala Ratnayake. During the visit, President Wickremesinghe is expected to engage in bilateral discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sri Lanka's political situation remains uncertain, as President Wickremesinghe has yet to call for a general election and honour the mandate given to Gotabaya Rajapaksa until November 2024. Meanwhile, the country's economic situation likely needs some more time for improvement, especially with the upcoming release of the second tranche of a USD 2.9 billion loan package from the IMF at the end of this year, reported the Hindustan Times. Net debtor status and external liabilities Sri Lanka continues to be a net debtor country with substantial external liabilities and depleted external assets. According to an IMF report, the country's net external liabilities significantly increased from an average of 51 per cent of GDP during 2017-2018 to 74 per cent of GDP in the third quarter of 2022. This rise was mainly due to a surge in gross external liabilities, which increased from 64 to 86 per cent of GDP, driven by high government borrowing and significant depreciation of the rupee, particularly in 2022. Gross external assets declined from 15 per cent of GDP in 2019 to 11.7 per cent of GDP in 2022. Foreign Direct Investment accounted for approximately 25 per cent of the external liabilities, while other investments such as debt portfolios and bank loans accounted for about 60 per cent. The government holds the majority share of the total external debt liabilities, making up 70 per cent. Also read | Chasing Growth: Sri Lanka unleashes second round of interest rate cuts Debt owed to India, Japan, and China During the political and economic crisis last year, India provided emergency aid to Sri Lanka, with a remaining outstanding balance of around USD 3 billion. Also watch | Netherlands set to return treasures looted from Sri Lanka & Indonesia Additionally, Sri Lanka owes significant amounts to Japan and China, particularly due to loans for infrastructure projects associated with the Rajapaksa administration, reported the Hindustan Times. The terms of the agreements were changed in 2017 by Ranil Wickremesinghe, leading to the leasing of the Hambantota deep seaport to China for a duration of 99 years. Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe is scheduled to travel to China in October to attend the Belt and Road Initiative and meet with President Xi Jinping. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian foreign secretary to visit Sri Lanka soon ahead of President Ranil Wickremesinghe's New Delhi trip

<p>Even as the controversy surrounding Gita Press publication—the world’s largest publisher of Hindu religious books—receiving the coveted Gandhi Peace Prize refuses to die down, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the 100-year-old printing press on Friday saying that it is not only an organisation, but also represents the devotion of millions of people.</p>

<p>Modi’s remarks came at the centenary year celebration of Gita Press in Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur city.</p>

<p>“Gita Press is the only printing press in the world, which is not just an organisation but a living faith. Gita Press is not just a printing press but a temple to crores of people...The press' name also has Gita and the work also has Geeta,” he said.</p>

<p>Asserting that it was his government who honoured the Gita Press by conferring it with the prestigious award, Modi said that one of India’s founding fathers, Mahatma Gandhi, used to write for the publisher.</p>

<h2><strong>Praises Gita Press</strong></h2>

<p>“On the occasion of Gita Press completing its 100 years, our government has conferred Gita Press with Gandhi Peace Prize. Gandhi Ji was emotionally attached to Gita Press. He once used to write for Gita Press through Kalyan Patrika," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>“Gita Press completing 100 years coinciding with the nation’s celebration of 75 years of independence is not merely a coincidence. Our epics and libraries were destroyed by foreign invaders, and then the Britishers arrived, causing our holy books to vanish," he said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Warm welcome for PM Modi in UP's Gorakhpur. Flower petals showered on PM Modi's convoy <a href="https://t.co/8SGSLRShdo">pic.twitter.com/8SGSLRShdo</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1677268152760274944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>“Gita Press receiving Gandhi Peace Prize is a respect of Gita Press by the country and its people," he added.</p>

<p>He also talked about the revamped Gorakhpur railway station, photos of which that had gone viral on social media.</p>

<p>“Ever since I shared the photos of Gorakhpur Railway Station on social media, people are left amused. They never imagined that a railway station could be developed in such a way," Modi said at the closing ceremony of the centenary celebrations of Gita Press.</p>

<h2><strong>Attacks Congress</strong></h2>

<p>Before Gorakhpur, Modi was in eastern Chhattisgarh state where he laid the foundation stone of eight projects over Rs 70 billion in the capital Raipur city.</p>

<p>During the event, Modi slammed Congress and attacked the other opposition parties who have been trying to create a coalition to take on the prime minister in the upcoming general elections.</p>

<p>Modi in a clear reference to Congress said those who are stained in corruption are trying to stitch an Opposition Unity.</p>

<p>"Those stained are trying to come together today. Those who used to curse each other, they have now started finding excuses to come together," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>He then went on to say that if Congress is the guarantee of corruption, then PM Modi is the guarantee of action against corruption.</p>

<p>"Every corrupt person in this country should listen to one thing with open ears. If they Congress is the guarantee of corruption, then Modi is the guarantee of action on corruption."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Even as the controversy surrounding Gita Press publication—the world’s largest publisher of Hindu religious books—receiving the coveted Gandhi Peace Prize refuses to die down, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the 100-year-old printing press on Friday saying that it is not only an organisation, but also represents the devotion of millions of people.

Even as the controversy surrounding Gita Press publication—the world’s largest publisher of Hindu religious books—receiving the coveted Gandhi Peace Prize refuses to die down, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the 100-year-old printing press on Friday saying that it is not only an organisation, but also represents the devotion of millions of people. Modi’s remarks came at the centenary year celebration of Gita Press in Uttar Pradesh’s Gorakhpur city. “Gita Press is the only printing press in the world, which is not just an organisation but a living faith. Gita Press is not just a printing press but a temple to crores of people...The press' name also has Gita and the work also has Geeta,” he said. Asserting that it was his government who honoured the Gita Press by conferring it with the prestigious award, Modi said that one of India’s founding fathers, Mahatma Gandhi, used to write for the publisher. Praises Gita Press “On the occasion of Gita Press completing its 100 years, our government has conferred Gita Press with Gandhi Peace Prize. Gandhi Ji was emotionally attached to Gita Press. He once used to write for Gita Press through Kalyan Patrika," PM Modi said. “Gita Press completing 100 years coinciding with the nation’s celebration of 75 years of independence is not merely a coincidence. Our epics and libraries were destroyed by foreign invaders, and then the Britishers arrived, causing our holy books to vanish," he said. #WATCH | Warm welcome for PM Modi in UP's Gorakhpur. Flower petals showered on PM Modi's convoy pic.twitter.com/8SGSLRShdo — ANI (@ANI) July 7, 2023 × “Gita Press receiving Gandhi Peace Prize is a respect of Gita Press by the country and its people," he added. He also talked about the revamped Gorakhpur railway station, photos of which that had gone viral on social media. “Ever since I shared the photos of Gorakhpur Railway Station on social media, people are left amused. They never imagined that a railway station could be developed in such a way," Modi said at the closing ceremony of the centenary celebrations of Gita Press. Attacks Congress Before Gorakhpur, Modi was in eastern Chhattisgarh state where he laid the foundation stone of eight projects over Rs 70 billion in the capital Raipur city. During the event, Modi slammed Congress and attacked the other opposition parties who have been trying to create a coalition to take on the prime minister in the upcoming general elections. Modi in a clear reference to Congress said those who are stained in corruption are trying to stitch an Opposition Unity. "Those stained are trying to come together today. Those who used to curse each other, they have now started finding excuses to come together," PM Modi said. He then went on to say that if Congress is the guarantee of corruption, then PM Modi is the guarantee of action against corruption. "Every corrupt person in this country should listen to one thing with open ears. If they Congress is the guarantee of corruption, then Modi is the guarantee of action on corruption." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Gita Press symbolises people’s devotion, living faith, says PM Modi in Gorakhpur  

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to resist the Western sanctions imposed on the country and called for trading in local currencies at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.</p>

<p>In his address to his counterparts from China and India and other members of the SCO virtually on Tuesday, Putin pitched for trading in local currencies, arguing that more than 80 per cent of trade between Chinese and Russian people was in roubles and yuan, and urged other SCO members to follow the same process.</p>

<p>"Russia is confidently resisting and will continue to resist external pressure, sanctions and provocations," the Russian leader said during a televised address to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).</p>

<p>Making his first public appearance since the short-lived coup attempt by Wagner forces, Putin said, "I would like to thank my colleagues from the SCO countries who expressed support for the actions of the Russian leadership to protect the constitutional order and the life and security of citizens."</p>

<p>He also welcomed Russian ally Belarus's application to become a permanent member of the SCO next year.</p>

<h2><strong>SCO under India’s presidency</strong></h2>

<p>The summit was hosted by Indian PM Narendra Modi, who called on members to boost trade, connectivity and tech cooperation, among other things.</p>

<p>In his opening remarks, Modi praised the SCO as an “important platform for peace, prosperity and development in the entire Eurasia region.”</p>

<p>“We do not see the SCO as an extended neighbourhood, but an extended family. Security, economic development, connectivity, unity, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and environmental protection are the pillars of our vision for SCO,” he said.</p>

<h2>Virtual Summit chaired by Indian PM Modi as Putin, Xi, Sharif attend&nbsp;</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/virtual-summit-chaired-by-indian-pm-modi-as-putin-xi-sharif-attend-virtually-611839/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>China’s Xi Jinping, on the other hand, called for regional leaders to strengthen their coordination and resist the influence of “external forces in the region”, seemingly referring to American foreign policy.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-president-xi-jinping-calls-for-regional-peace-and-opposes-protectionism-at-sco-summit-611865">China's Xi calls for regional peace, opposes protectionism at SCO Summit</a></p>

<p>“We must be highly vigilant against external forces inciting a ‘new cold war’ in the region and creating a confrontation between camps, (and) resolutely oppose any country’s interference in internal affairs and instigation of ‘colour revolutions,’” Xi said, using a term to refer to government-toppling political movements.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-virtual-sco-meet-modi-mentions-five-pillars-of-organisations-vision-611705">At virtual SCO summit, Modi mentions five pillars of organisation's vision; condemns terrorism in any form</a></p>

<p>At the conclusion of the meeting,&nbsp;the grouping adopted a declaration and two joint statements, one on cooperation countering “radicalisation leading to separatism, extremism and terrorism” and a second on cooperation in the field of digital transformation, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said while addressing the press.</p>

<p id="6"><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to resist the Western sanctions imposed on the country and called for trading in local currencies at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to resist the Western sanctions imposed on the country and called for trading in local currencies at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. In his address to his counterparts from China and India and other members of the SCO virtually on Tuesday, Putin pitched for trading in local currencies, arguing that more than 80 per cent of trade between Chinese and Russian people was in roubles and yuan, and urged other SCO members to follow the same process. "Russia is confidently resisting and will continue to resist external pressure, sanctions and provocations," the Russian leader said during a televised address to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Making his first public appearance since the short-lived coup attempt by Wagner forces, Putin said, "I would like to thank my colleagues from the SCO countries who expressed support for the actions of the Russian leadership to protect the constitutional order and the life and security of citizens." He also welcomed Russian ally Belarus's application to become a permanent member of the SCO next year. SCO under India’s presidency The summit was hosted by Indian PM Narendra Modi, who called on members to boost trade, connectivity and tech cooperation, among other things. In his opening remarks, Modi praised the SCO as an “important platform for peace, prosperity and development in the entire Eurasia region.” “We do not see the SCO as an extended neighbourhood, but an extended family. Security, economic development, connectivity, unity, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and environmental protection are the pillars of our vision for SCO,” he said. Virtual Summit chaired by Indian PM Modi as Putin, Xi, Sharif attend China’s Xi Jinping, on the other hand, called for regional leaders to strengthen their coordination and resist the influence of “external forces in the region”, seemingly referring to American foreign policy. Also read | China's Xi calls for regional peace, opposes protectionism at SCO Summit “We must be highly vigilant against external forces inciting a ‘new cold war’ in the region and creating a confrontation between camps, (and) resolutely oppose any country’s interference in internal affairs and instigation of ‘colour revolutions,’” Xi said, using a term to refer to government-toppling political movements. Also read | At virtual SCO summit, Modi mentions five pillars of organisation's vision; condemns terrorism in any form At the conclusion of the meeting, the grouping adopted a declaration and two joint statements, one on cooperation countering “radicalisation leading to separatism, extremism and terrorism” and a second on cooperation in the field of digital transformation, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said while addressing the press. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At SCO Summit, Vladimir Putin calls for trading in local currencies to blunt western sanctions

Prime Minister Modi takes the metro to Delhi University event

narendra-modi-1

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

narendra modi-1