<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend'&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin made the comments at an annual forum 'Strong ideas of our time'&nbsp;held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives&nbsp;in Moscow wherein he&nbsp;drew on India's experience to promote the development of domestic products and brands.</p>

<p>"Our friends in India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a great friend of Russia, a few years ago presented a concept 'Make in India' and it had a very visible effect on the Indian economy," said Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It would do no harm to emulate what is working well, even if it was not us but our friends who created it,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier,&nbsp;Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov in New Delhi remarked that the special "Russia-India partnership" was growing "stronger as ever".</p>

<p>"There have been lies about Russia on a daily basis and on a global scale. Efforts are being made to disrupt Russia-India relations,"&nbsp;said Alipov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The indispensable truth however is — the special Russia-India strategic partnership has shown strength and we keep growing stronger than ever," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vladimir-putin-hails-indias-prime-minister-narendra-modi-610275"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Vladimir Putin hails India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Make-in-India paying dividends?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the much-popularised 'Make in India'&nbsp;initiative was launched by the Indian PM in September 2014, soon after taking the reins of the country for the first time. Though ridiculed by armchair economists at the time, the initiative has managed to change the direction of the Indian manufacturing sector, especially in the defence sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a government report released last month,&nbsp;India recorded&nbsp;an extraordinary 23 times rise in military exports during the nine years of the Modi government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high, surging from Rs 686 crore ($82 million) in FY 2013-14 to nearly Rs 16,000 crore ($1.9 billion) in FY 2022-23. This remarkable 23-fold increase reflects India’s progress in the global defence manufacturing sector," read the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-defence-exports-grew-23-times-in-9-years-surpasses-19-billion-in-fy-22-23-598660"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India's defence exports grew 23 times in 9 years, surpassed $1.9 billion in FY 22-23</strong></a></p>

<p>For a country that has been heavily reliant on military imports since its independence, the meteoric rise in exports suggests that a defence manufacturing setup (still in its relative infancy)&nbsp;has&nbsp;already started to pay dividends.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While India's exports grew, its defence imports declined by 11 per cent between 2013-17 and 2018-22. The decline has been linked to a complex procurement process, efforts to diversify arms suppliers and attempts to replace imports with local designs. India’s domestic procurement climbed to 68 per cent in FY22.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT. Putin made the comments at an annual forum 'Strong ideas of our time' held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives in Moscow wherein he drew on India's experience to promote the development of domestic products and brands. "Our friends in India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a great friend of Russia, a few years ago presented a concept 'Make in India' and it had a very visible effect on the Indian economy," said Putin. "It would do no harm to emulate what is working well, even if it was not us but our friends who created it,” he added. Earlier, Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov in New Delhi remarked that the special "Russia-India partnership" was growing "stronger as ever". "There have been lies about Russia on a daily basis and on a global scale. Efforts are being made to disrupt Russia-India relations," said Alipov. "The indispensable truth however is — the special Russia-India strategic partnership has shown strength and we keep growing stronger than ever," he added. Watch | Vladimir Putin hails India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi × Make-in-India paying dividends? Notably, the much-popularised 'Make in India' initiative was launched by the Indian PM in September 2014, soon after taking the reins of the country for the first time. Though ridiculed by armchair economists at the time, the initiative has managed to change the direction of the Indian manufacturing sector, especially in the defence sector. According to a government report released last month, India recorded an extraordinary 23 times rise in military exports during the nine years of the Modi government. “India’s defence exports have reached an all-time high, surging from Rs 686 crore ($82 million) in FY 2013-14 to nearly Rs 16,000 crore ($1.9 billion) in FY 2022-23. This remarkable 23-fold increase reflects India’s progress in the global defence manufacturing sector," read the report. Also read | India's defence exports grew 23 times in 9 years, surpassed $1.9 billion in FY 22-23 For a country that has been heavily reliant on military imports since its independence, the meteoric rise in exports suggests that a defence manufacturing setup (still in its relative infancy) has already started to pay dividends. While India's exports grew, its defence imports declined by 11 per cent between 2013-17 and 2018-22. The decline has been linked to a complex procurement process, efforts to diversify arms suppliers and attempts to replace imports with local designs. India’s domestic procurement climbed to 68 per cent in FY22. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin lauds PM Modi for 'Make in India' initiative, says no harm if Russia adopts ‘friend's’ template

<p>At a time when Russia is falling short of friends due to its armed aggression in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin called upon a 'friend of Russia' in Narendra Modi, prime minister of India, a country with which Moscow shares a historic relationship. Meanwhile, protests in France continued to rage for third consecutive night in reaction to the fatal shooting of a teenager by cops.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-lauds-modi-for-make-in-india-initiative-says-no-harm-in-emulating-similar-exercise-in-russia-610334"><strong>Putin lauds Modi for 'Make in India' initiative, says no harm in emulating similar exercise in Russia</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/10/05/71730-putin-modi-reuters.jpg?imwidth=1920" /><br />
Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend'&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin made the comments at an annual forum&nbsp;"Strong ideas of our time" held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives&nbsp;in Moscow wherein he&nbsp;drew on India's experience to promote the development of domestic products and brands.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-emmanuel-macron-seen-partying-with-elton-john-as-france-descends-into-chaos-destruction-610346"><strong>President Emmanuel Macron seen partying with Elton John as France descends into chaos, destruction</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/30/363371-frace.png?imwidth=1920" /><br />
At a time when France is seething with rage in the wake of violent protests sparked by the fatal shooting of a teenager by cops, President Emmanuel Macron was seen partying with British singer Elton John.&nbsp;On Wednesday evening, Macron was filmed at Paris's Accor Arena, watching the singer on his farewell tour.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gets-last-minute-relief-from-imf-to-avoid-sovereign-default-610325"><strong>Pakistan secures initial relief from IMF in its bid to avoid sovereign default</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/30/363359-untitled-design-68.jpg?imwidth=1920" /><br />
Pakistan has managed to clinch a last-minute relief from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as it secured an initial program from the IMF&nbsp;for a $3 billion loan program. The development lowers the risk of a sovereign default as the South Asian nation continues to grapple with sky-high inflation and staggeringly low exchange reserves.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starting-july-1-this-nation-will-allow-psychedelics-for-ptsd-depression-610317"><strong>Starting July 1, THIS nation will allow psychedelics for PTSD, depression</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/03/330061-000g48h7.jpg?imwidth=1920" /><br />
Starting Saturday (July 1), Australia will become the world's first country to allow doctors to prescribe MDMA and magic mushrooms to treat psychiatric conditions such as depression and Post Trauma Stress Disorder (PTSD). Although the decision was taken in February earlier this year, it remains a controversial move.&nbsp;</p>


At a time when Russia is falling short of friends due to its armed aggression in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin called upon a 'friend of Russia' in Narendra Modi, prime minister of India, a country with which Moscow shares a historic relationship.

At a time when Russia is falling short of friends due to its armed aggression in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin called upon a 'friend of Russia' in Narendra Modi, prime minister of India, a country with which Moscow shares a historic relationship. Meanwhile, protests in France continued to rage for third consecutive night in reaction to the fatal shooting of a teenager by cops. Click on the headlines to read more: Putin lauds Modi for 'Make in India' initiative, says no harm in emulating similar exercise in Russia Russian President Vladimir Putin has lauded his 'friend' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' initiative to take the economy to new heights, according to state-controlled news channel RT. Putin made the comments at an annual forum "Strong ideas of our time" held by the state Agency for Strategic Initiatives in Moscow wherein he drew on India's experience to promote the development of domestic products and brands. President Emmanuel Macron seen partying with Elton John as France descends into chaos, destruction At a time when France is seething with rage in the wake of violent protests sparked by the fatal shooting of a teenager by cops, President Emmanuel Macron was seen partying with British singer Elton John. On Wednesday evening, Macron was filmed at Paris's Accor Arena, watching the singer on his farewell tour. Pakistan secures initial relief from IMF in its bid to avoid sovereign default Pakistan has managed to clinch a last-minute relief from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as it secured an initial program from the IMF for a $3 billion loan program. The development lowers the risk of a sovereign default as the South Asian nation continues to grapple with sky-high inflation and staggeringly low exchange reserves. Starting July 1, THIS nation will allow psychedelics for PTSD, depression Starting Saturday (July 1), Australia will become the world's first country to allow doctors to prescribe MDMA and magic mushrooms to treat psychiatric conditions such as depression and Post Trauma Stress Disorder (PTSD). Although the decision was taken in February earlier this year, it remains a controversial move.

Morning brief: Putin hails 'friend of Russia' in Modi, French protests rage on, and more

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is likely to introduce a bill on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the upcoming session of Indian Parliament which is set to begin next month.</p>

<p>India Today reported quoting sources that the bill might be sent to the parliamentary standing committee which will hear the views of various stakeholders on the Uniform Civil Code.</p>

<p>PTI news agency quoting sources said that the monsoon session of the parliament may begin in the third week of July.</p>

<p>The report on UCC comes hours after Rajya Sabha (upper house) Secretariat issued a public notice stating that a parliamentary panel will hear views of the Department of Legal Affairs, the Legislative Department and the Law Commission on UCC on July 3.</p>

<p>“Members are reminded that the next meeting of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice will be held at 3 pm on Monday, 3rd July 2023, to hear the views of representatives of the following organisations on public notice issued by the Law Commission of India on the Uniform Civil Code,” the notice read.</p>

<h2><strong>Uniform Civil Code</strong></h2>

<p>UCC is a comprehensive set of common laws for all religions governing personal matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, custody, alimony and others. It aims at ensuring equality among all religions.</p>

<p>Although the complete form of UCC is under debate, a fair idea finds a mention in the Indian Constitution’s Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).</p>

<p>Part IV of the DPSP, which is not justiciable or enforceable before the courts of the country, plays a ‘fundamental’ role in the governance.</p>

<p>Article 44 mentions the "state shall endeavour to secure a Uniform Civil Code for the citizens throughout the territory of India".</p>

<h2><strong>Modi’s push </strong></h2>

<p>Implementing UCC has been one of the poll planks of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Though it has come up for a debate often, the push from the central government wasn’t visible until PM Modi talked about implementing the rule in a recent gathering.</p>

<p>Addressing workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the election-bound Madhya Pradesh state’s Bhopal city, Modi said that it was high time that serious discussions begin around the topic.</p>

<p>He also singled out the opposition parties who supported the outlawed triple talaq practice—which allowed a Muslim man to divorce his wife in minutes just by saying "talaq" (divorce) three times—while making a fervent pitch for UCC.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-makes-fervent-pitch-for-uniform-civil-code-609210">Indian PM Narendra Modi makes fervent pitch for Uniform Civil Code</a></p>

<p>“Today people are being instigated in the name of UCC. How can the country run on two (laws)? The Constitution also talks of equal rights...Supreme Court has also asked to implement UCC. These (opposition) people are playing vote bank politics,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-is-the-contentious-issue-of-indias-uniform-civil-code-610086">What is so contentious about India's Uniform Civil Code that aims to annul personal laws</a></p>

<p>"I feel we should study this subject. I feel those who support triple talaq are doing vote bank politics of appeasement,” Modi said, setting the tone for the upcoming elections in the state and the impending general elections in 2024.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</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>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is likely to introduce a bill on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the upcoming session of Indian Parliament which is set to begin next month.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is likely to introduce a bill on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the upcoming session of Indian Parliament which is set to begin next month. India Today reported quoting sources that the bill might be sent to the parliamentary standing committee which will hear the views of various stakeholders on the Uniform Civil Code. PTI news agency quoting sources said that the monsoon session of the parliament may begin in the third week of July. The report on UCC comes hours after Rajya Sabha (upper house) Secretariat issued a public notice stating that a parliamentary panel will hear views of the Department of Legal Affairs, the Legislative Department and the Law Commission on UCC on July 3. “Members are reminded that the next meeting of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice will be held at 3 pm on Monday, 3rd July 2023, to hear the views of representatives of the following organisations on public notice issued by the Law Commission of India on the Uniform Civil Code,” the notice read. Uniform Civil Code UCC is a comprehensive set of common laws for all religions governing personal matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, custody, alimony and others. It aims at ensuring equality among all religions. Although the complete form of UCC is under debate, a fair idea finds a mention in the Indian Constitution’s Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP). Part IV of the DPSP, which is not justiciable or enforceable before the courts of the country, plays a ‘fundamental’ role in the governance. Article 44 mentions the "state shall endeavour to secure a Uniform Civil Code for the citizens throughout the territory of India". Modi’s push Implementing UCC has been one of the poll planks of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Though it has come up for a debate often, the push from the central government wasn’t visible until PM Modi talked about implementing the rule in a recent gathering. Addressing workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the election-bound Madhya Pradesh state’s Bhopal city, Modi said that it was high time that serious discussions begin around the topic. He also singled out the opposition parties who supported the outlawed triple talaq practice—which allowed a Muslim man to divorce his wife in minutes just by saying "talaq" (divorce) three times—while making a fervent pitch for UCC. Also read | Indian PM Narendra Modi makes fervent pitch for Uniform Civil Code “Today people are being instigated in the name of UCC. How can the country run on two (laws)? The Constitution also talks of equal rights...Supreme Court has also asked to implement UCC. These (opposition) people are playing vote bank politics,” he said. Also read | What is so contentious about India's Uniform Civil Code that aims to annul personal laws "I feel we should study this subject. I feel those who support triple talaq are doing vote bank politics of appeasement,” Modi said, setting the tone for the upcoming elections in the state and the impending general elections in 2024. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Uniform Civil Code bill likely to be tabled in upcoming monsoon session of parliament, says report

<p>A senior White House official has reportedly said that the Biden administration had no role in former president Barack Obama’s remarks about the state of Muslims in India, which were made during Prime Ministered Narendra Modi’s recently concluded trip to the United States.</p>

<p>The official, who has not been named, told the New Delhi-based Hindustan Times newspaper that Obama made these comments in his private capacity as a citizen and had no coordination from the White House.</p>

<p>The official, however, added that President Joe Biden raised “every kind of issue” with Modi, as the Indian PM did with the US president "in a dignified and respectful way."</p>

<p>Speaking about the online vitriol a Wall Street Journal reporter had to face as a consequence of asking Modi&nbsp;questions about human rights, the official said that the US government believed in a free and open press, and didn’t support any kind of online harassment.</p>

<p>He pointed out that the vast majority of the commentary around the visit was positive and that’s what officials would like to focus on.</p>

<h2><strong>Controversy over Barack Obama's remarks on Indian Muslims</strong></h2>

<p>A rather successful US trip by Modi was marred by an interview Obama gave to CNN during which he mentioned Modi and talked about the protection of the rights of ethnic minorities in India.</p>

<p>&nbsp;Obama said the issue of the “protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India” would be worth raising in Modi’s meeting with Biden.</p>

<p>These “large internal conflicts”, Obama had said, would be contrary to the interests of both “Muslim India” and “Hindu India”, he said.</p>

<p>The former president said that without such protection there was “a strong possibility that India at some point starts pulling apart”.</p>

<p>The remarks were severely condemned in India, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh leading the charge.</p>

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<h2>&nbsp;</h2>

<h2><strong>Backlash in India</strong> against Obama's remarks</h2>

<p>Sitharaman said she was shocked Obama had made such remarks when Modi was visiting the US aiming to deepen relations.</p>

<p>“He was commenting on Indian Muslims … having bombed Muslim-majority countries from Syria to Yemen … during his presidency,” Sitharaman told a press conference. “Why would anyone listen to any allegations from such people?”</p>

<p>The chief minister of northeastern Assam state, Himanta Biswa Sarma, tweeted that there were many “Hussain Obama in India itself”, and Assam Police would act according to its own priorities.</p>

<p>At the press conference with Biden, Modi denied any discrimination against minorities under his government.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p id="6"><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A senior White House official has reportedly said that the Biden administration had no role in former president Barack Obama’s remarks about the state of Muslims in India, which were made during Prime Ministered Narendra Modi’s recently concluded trip to the United States.

A senior White House official has reportedly said that the Biden administration had no role in former president Barack Obama’s remarks about the state of Muslims in India, which were made during Prime Ministered Narendra Modi’s recently concluded trip to the United States. The official, who has not been named, told the New Delhi-based Hindustan Times newspaper that Obama made these comments in his private capacity as a citizen and had no coordination from the White House. The official, however, added that President Joe Biden raised “every kind of issue” with Modi, as the Indian PM did with the US president "in a dignified and respectful way." Speaking about the online vitriol a Wall Street Journal reporter had to face as a consequence of asking Modi questions about human rights, the official said that the US government believed in a free and open press, and didn’t support any kind of online harassment. He pointed out that the vast majority of the commentary around the visit was positive and that’s what officials would like to focus on. Controversy over Barack Obama's remarks on Indian Muslims A rather successful US trip by Modi was marred by an interview Obama gave to CNN during which he mentioned Modi and talked about the protection of the rights of ethnic minorities in India. Obama said the issue of the “protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India” would be worth raising in Modi’s meeting with Biden. These “large internal conflicts”, Obama had said, would be contrary to the interests of both “Muslim India” and “Hindu India”, he said. The former president said that without such protection there was “a strong possibility that India at some point starts pulling apart”. The remarks were severely condemned in India, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh leading the charge. Backlash in India against Obama's remarks Sitharaman said she was shocked Obama had made such remarks when Modi was visiting the US aiming to deepen relations. “He was commenting on Indian Muslims … having bombed Muslim-majority countries from Syria to Yemen … during his presidency,” Sitharaman told a press conference. “Why would anyone listen to any allegations from such people?” The chief minister of northeastern Assam state, Himanta Biswa Sarma, tweeted that there were many “Hussain Obama in India itself”, and Assam Police would act according to its own priorities. At the press conference with Biden, Modi denied any discrimination against minorities under his government. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Barack Obama’s remarks on India, PM Modi not coordinated with White House: US official

<p>On the auspicious occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of State of Kuwait, Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait and to the people of State of Kuwait, through a letter on his own behalf and the people of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In his personal letter, Prime Minister Modi conveyed that the sacred festival of Eid al-Adha is celebrated by millions of Muslims across the length and breadth of India. It reminds us of the values of sacrifice, compassion and brotherhood, which are essential in building a peaceful and inclusive world that we all aspire for," stated the Indian embassy in Kuwait.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-he-hobnobbing-bjp-targets-rahul-gandhi-for-alleged-george-soros-link-609925"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Why is he hobnobbing...': BJP targets Rahul Gandhi for alleged George Soros link</strong></a></p>

<p>On Wednesday, PM Modi conveyed greetings to his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on the occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha.&nbsp;He expressed confidence that the sacred festival will bring the people of India and Bangladesh even closer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"PM @narendramodi conveyed his warmest greetings to PM Sheikh Hasina and to the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha. In his message, the PM expressed confidence that the sacred festival will bring the people of India and Bangladesh even closer. @MEAIndia," the High Commission of India in Bangladesh said in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/openais-chatgpt-now-speaks-hindi-assamese-and-bangla-609916"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;OpenAI's ChatGPT now speaks Hindi, Assamese and Bangla</strong></a></p>

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<p>Eid-al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, holds significant religious and cultural importance for Muslims worldwide. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu'l-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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On the auspicious occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of State of Kuwait, Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait and to the people of State of Kuwait, through a letter on his own behalf and the people of India.

On the auspicious occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of State of Kuwait, Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait and to the people of State of Kuwait, through a letter on his own behalf and the people of India. "In his personal letter, Prime Minister Modi conveyed that the sacred festival of Eid al-Adha is celebrated by millions of Muslims across the length and breadth of India. It reminds us of the values of sacrifice, compassion and brotherhood, which are essential in building a peaceful and inclusive world that we all aspire for," stated the Indian embassy in Kuwait. Also read | 'Why is he hobnobbing...': BJP targets Rahul Gandhi for alleged George Soros link On Wednesday, PM Modi conveyed greetings to his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on the occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha. He expressed confidence that the sacred festival will bring the people of India and Bangladesh even closer. "PM @narendramodi conveyed his warmest greetings to PM Sheikh Hasina and to the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of the holy festival of Eid al-Adha. In his message, the PM expressed confidence that the sacred festival will bring the people of India and Bangladesh even closer. @MEAIndia," the High Commission of India in Bangladesh said in a tweet. WATCH | OpenAI's ChatGPT now speaks Hindi, Assamese and Bangla × Eid-al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, holds significant religious and cultural importance for Muslims worldwide. It falls on the 10th day of Dhu'l-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian PM Narendra Modi extends Eid al-Adha wishes to people of Kuwait, its leaders

<p>The All India Muslim Personal Law Board — a non-governmental organisation in India that represents the interests of Muslims in matters of personal law — held a late night emergency meeting hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi batted for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC).</p>

<p>In the virtual meeting, the AIMPLB president Saifullah Rehmani; Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali, chairman of Islamic Centre of India and member of AIMPLB; and other members decided to express their views on the UCC to the Law Commission.</p>

<p>It is learnt that the Islamic Board is opposed to the UCC and is chalking out a strategy to counter the proposed move.</p>

<p>Talking to PTI on Wednesday, Mahli did not divulge details of the meeting, but said that July 14 is the last day for filing of objections and "we have got down to discussing the matter".</p>

<p>"Our stand is that UCC is against the spirit of the Constitution and we will oppose it strongly," the AIMPLB member underlined.</p>

<p>"India is a country where many religions and cultures are followed. So, the UCC is not only going to affect the Muslims, but also the Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Jains, Jews, Parsis and other minuscule minorities," he added.</p>

<p>The Law Commission had sought views from all the stakeholders, including recognised religious institutions, to initiate a fresh consultation process on the UCC.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Modi say?</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the election-bound Madhya Pradesh state’s capital city Bhopal on Tuesday, Modi said that it was high time that serious discussions around the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) begin.</p>

<p>With UCC, the government aims to bring a single personal law for all citizens irrespective of religion, sex, gender and sexual orientation.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-pitches-for-uniform-civil-code-in-poll-bound-madhya-pradesh-609506/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“Today people are being instigated in the name of UCC. How can the country run on two (laws)? The Constitution also talks of equal rights...Supreme Court has also asked to implement UCC. These (opposition) people are playing vote bank politics,” he said.</p>

<p>"I feel we should study this subject. I feel those who support triple talaq are doing vote bank politics of appeasement,” Modi said, setting the tone for the upcoming elections in the state and the impending general elections in 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>What is AIMPLB?</strong></h2>

<p>The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) is a non-governmental organisation that represents the interests of Muslims in matters of personal law. It was formed in 1973 with the objective of protecting and promoting the application of Islamic personal law among Muslims in India.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p id="6"><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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The All India Muslim Personal Law Board — a non-governmental organisation in India that represents the interests of Muslims in matters of personal law — held a late night emergency meeting hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi batted for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC).

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board — a non-governmental organisation in India that represents the interests of Muslims in matters of personal law — held a late night emergency meeting hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi batted for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC). In the virtual meeting, the AIMPLB president Saifullah Rehmani; Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali, chairman of Islamic Centre of India and member of AIMPLB; and other members decided to express their views on the UCC to the Law Commission. It is learnt that the Islamic Board is opposed to the UCC and is chalking out a strategy to counter the proposed move. Talking to PTI on Wednesday, Mahli did not divulge details of the meeting, but said that July 14 is the last day for filing of objections and "we have got down to discussing the matter". "Our stand is that UCC is against the spirit of the Constitution and we will oppose it strongly," the AIMPLB member underlined. "India is a country where many religions and cultures are followed. So, the UCC is not only going to affect the Muslims, but also the Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Jains, Jews, Parsis and other minuscule minorities," he added. The Law Commission had sought views from all the stakeholders, including recognised religious institutions, to initiate a fresh consultation process on the UCC. What did Modi say? Addressing workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the election-bound Madhya Pradesh state’s capital city Bhopal on Tuesday, Modi said that it was high time that serious discussions around the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) begin. With UCC, the government aims to bring a single personal law for all citizens irrespective of religion, sex, gender and sexual orientation. “Today people are being instigated in the name of UCC. How can the country run on two (laws)? The Constitution also talks of equal rights...Supreme Court has also asked to implement UCC. These (opposition) people are playing vote bank politics,” he said. "I feel we should study this subject. I feel those who support triple talaq are doing vote bank politics of appeasement,” Modi said, setting the tone for the upcoming elections in the state and the impending general elections in 2024. What is AIMPLB? The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) is a non-governmental organisation that represents the interests of Muslims in matters of personal law. It was formed in 1973 with the objective of protecting and promoting the application of Islamic personal law among Muslims in India. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Muslim law board to present its views by July first week after PM Modi bats for Uniform Civil Code

<p>Pakistan's foreign ministry on Monday (June 26) summoned the US embassy's deputy chief of mission over a statement made last week during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's meeting. The statement called for Pakistan to ensure that its territory was not used as a base for militant attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former US president Donald Trump has flaunted keeping possession of secret military documents in an audio recording obtained by CNN. The recording was reportedly made on July 21, 2021, at Trump's Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club.</p>

<p>The United Nations (UN) first independent investigator to visit the US detention centre at Guantanamo Bay revealed that the 30 men held there continue to endure ongoing cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment in violation of international law.</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistans-foreign-ministry-summons-us-embassys-deputy-mission-chief-over-us-india-statement-609039"><strong>Pakistan's foreign ministry summons US embassy's deputy mission chief over US-India statement</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/27/362480-succession-2023-06-27t073135304.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Pakistan's foreign ministry summoned the United States embassy's deputy chief of mission, on Monday, over a statement that was made last week during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's meeting.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-us-president-donald-trump-flaunts-about-keeping-classified-documents-in-new-audio-clip-609063"><strong>Ex-US president Donald Trump flaunts about keeping classified documents in new audio clip</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/27/362495-trum.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>CNN has claimed to have obtained an audio recording of former US president Donald Trump flaunting about keeping possession of secret military documents, but cannot de-classify now that he has left the office.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/landmark-visit-reveals-guantanamo-detainees-subjected-to-cruel-treatment-says-first-un-investigator-609058"><strong>Landmark visit reveals: Guantanamo detainees subjected to cruel treatment, says first UN investigator</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/05/22/195801-untitled-design-68.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>In a groundbreaking development, the United Nations' first independent investigator to visit the US&nbsp;detention centre at Guantanamo Bay, Irish law professor Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, has revealed that the 30 men held there continue to endure ongoing cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment in violation of international law.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/conservative-pm-kyriakos-mitsotakis-storms-back-to-power-in-greece-with-landslide-victory-608875"><strong>Conservative PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis storms back to power in Greece with landslide victory</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/26/362362-ap23176707626769.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Conservative Greek leader Kyriakos Mitsotakis has stormed back to power with a landslide victory in June 25 votes. The Greek prime minister and his New Democracy Party are widely credited for bringing economic stability to an EU laggard. Now, after winning the elections, the right-wing leader has promised more economic reforms to the voters.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Alphabet bets on lasers to deliver internet in remote areas</strong></p>

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Pakistan's foreign ministry on Monday (June 26) summoned the US embassy's deputy chief of mission over a statement made last week during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's meeting.

Pakistan's foreign ministry on Monday (June 26) summoned the US embassy's deputy chief of mission over a statement made last week during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's meeting. The statement called for Pakistan to ensure that its territory was not used as a base for militant attacks. Former US president Donald Trump has flaunted keeping possession of secret military documents in an audio recording obtained by CNN. The recording was reportedly made on July 21, 2021, at Trump's Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club. The United Nations (UN) first independent investigator to visit the US detention centre at Guantanamo Bay revealed that the 30 men held there continue to endure ongoing cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment in violation of international law. Click on the headlines to read more: Pakistan's foreign ministry summons US embassy's deputy mission chief over US-India statement Pakistan's foreign ministry summoned the United States embassy's deputy chief of mission, on Monday, over a statement that was made last week during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden's meeting. Ex-US president Donald Trump flaunts about keeping classified documents in new audio clip CNN has claimed to have obtained an audio recording of former US president Donald Trump flaunting about keeping possession of secret military documents, but cannot de-classify now that he has left the office. Landmark visit reveals: Guantanamo detainees subjected to cruel treatment, says first UN investigator In a groundbreaking development, the United Nations' first independent investigator to visit the US detention centre at Guantanamo Bay, Irish law professor Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, has revealed that the 30 men held there continue to endure ongoing cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment in violation of international law. Conservative PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis storms back to power in Greece with landslide victory Conservative Greek leader Kyriakos Mitsotakis has stormed back to power with a landslide victory in June 25 votes. The Greek prime minister and his New Democracy Party are widely credited for bringing economic stability to an EU laggard. Now, after winning the elections, the right-wing leader has promised more economic reforms to the voters. Watch | Alphabet bets on lasers to deliver internet in remote areas ×

Morning brief: Pak summons US embassy's deputy mission chief, and more

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong case for the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC)— a single personal law for all citizens irrespective of religion, sex, gender and sexual orientation—during an event on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Addressing workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the election-bound Madhya Pradesh state’s Bhopal city, Modi said that it was high time that serious discussions begin around the topic.</p>

<p>He also singled out the opposition parties who supported the outlawed triple talaq practice—which allowed a Muslim man to divorce his wife in minutes just by saying "talaq" (divorce) three times—while making a fervent pitch for UCC.</p>

<p>“Today people are being instigated in the name of UCC. How can the country run on two (laws)? The Constitution also talks of equal rights...Supreme Court has also asked to implement UCC. These (opposition) people are playing vote bank politics,” he said.</p>

<p>"I feel we should study this subject. I feel those who support triple talaq are doing vote bank politics of appeasement,” Modi said, setting the tone for the upcoming elections in the state and the impending general elections in 2024.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Narendra Modi speaks on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC)<br />
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"Today people are being instigated in the name of UCC. How can the country run on two (laws)? The Constitution also talks of equal rights...Supreme Court has also asked to implement UCC. These (Opposition) people… <a href="https://t.co/UwOxuSyGvD">pic.twitter.com/UwOxuSyGvD</a></p>
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<p>“They are doing injustice to our Muslim daughters. Triple talaq does not only affect Muslim daughters. Imagine the situation of the family who marries off their daughter and she comes back after 10 years. Triple talaq damages the entire family," Modi added.</p>

<p>He wondered why such practice existed in India when most of the Muslim countries had already abolished it.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“If this was an important aspect of Islam, then why is it not there in Pakistan, Indonesia, Qatar, Jordon, Syria and Bangladesh?”</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alarming-resurgence-malaria-returns-to-the-us-after-20-years-609089">Alarming resurgence: Malaria returns to the US after 20 years</a></p>

<p>He further claimed that Egypt had “removed” the practice “80-90 years ago”, and that “some people want the license to discriminate against Muslim women all the time through the Triple Talaq noose”.</p>

<p><strong>Also read </strong>|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-diwali-to-be-a-school-holiday-in-new-york-city-says-mayor-609094">US: Diwali to be a school holiday in New York City, says mayor</a></p>

<p>Taking potshots at the opposition parties for attempting to forge a united front, he said, “I have never seen the opposition parties squirm like they are doing now. Those who used to abuse, are now bowing down. This is their compulsion,” he said.</p>

<p>“It’s clear from their nervousness that the public has made up its mind to bring the BJP government in the 2024 elections. That’s why these parties are freaking out, and have decided they will mislead the public before the elections, level false allegations and gain power.”</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 made a strong case for the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC)— a single personal law for all citizens irrespective of religion, sex, gender and sexual orientation—during an event on Tuesday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong case for the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC)— a single personal law for all citizens irrespective of religion, sex, gender and sexual orientation—during an event on Tuesday. Addressing workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the election-bound Madhya Pradesh state’s Bhopal city, Modi said that it was high time that serious discussions begin around the topic. He also singled out the opposition parties who supported the outlawed triple talaq practice—which allowed a Muslim man to divorce his wife in minutes just by saying "talaq" (divorce) three times—while making a fervent pitch for UCC. “Today people are being instigated in the name of UCC. How can the country run on two (laws)? The Constitution also talks of equal rights...Supreme Court has also asked to implement UCC. These (opposition) people are playing vote bank politics,” he said. "I feel we should study this subject. I feel those who support triple talaq are doing vote bank politics of appeasement,” Modi said, setting the tone for the upcoming elections in the state and the impending general elections in 2024. #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi speaks on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) "Today people are being instigated in the name of UCC. How can the country run on two (laws)? The Constitution also talks of equal rights...Supreme Court has also asked to implement UCC. These (Opposition) people… pic.twitter.com/UwOxuSyGvD — ANI (@ANI) June 27, 2023 × “They are doing injustice to our Muslim daughters. Triple talaq does not only affect Muslim daughters. Imagine the situation of the family who marries off their daughter and she comes back after 10 years. Triple talaq damages the entire family," Modi added. He wondered why such practice existed in India when most of the Muslim countries had already abolished it. “If this was an important aspect of Islam, then why is it not there in Pakistan, Indonesia, Qatar, Jordon, Syria and Bangladesh?” Also read | Alarming resurgence: Malaria returns to the US after 20 years He further claimed that Egypt had “removed” the practice “80-90 years ago”, and that “some people want the license to discriminate against Muslim women all the time through the Triple Talaq noose”. Also read | US: Diwali to be a school holiday in New York City, says mayor Taking potshots at the opposition parties for attempting to forge a united front, he said, “I have never seen the opposition parties squirm like they are doing now. Those who used to abuse, are now bowing down. This is their compulsion,” he said. “It’s clear from their nervousness that the public has made up its mind to bring the BJP government in the 2024 elections. That’s why these parties are freaking out, and have decided they will mislead the public before the elections, level false allegations and gain power.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian PM Narendra Modi makes fervent pitch for Uniform Civil Code

<p>Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals.</p>

<p>In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, '<em>His Life and Times: Putin</em>' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory.<img alt="Putin Biography" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b47ffe9-ba73-45b3-b31b-618e023bed36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T205019.484.png" /></p>

<p>But over the weekend, after Putin's own former chef-turned-businessman-turned-warlord directed his mercenaries towards Moscow, the shockwaves were felt across global capitals. The people in newsrooms, like this writer, felt they were witnessing history. A coup d'état appeared nearly imminent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But in less than 36 hours, the armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group led by its boss Yevgeny Prigozhin ended as dramatically as it began. Putin's shocking pragmatism prevailed after he deployed one of his vassal states' leaders to diffuse the crisis. Prigozhin is now in Belarus after pulling his men back to their bases.&nbsp;<img alt="Vladimir Putin | Reuters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a95e5c5-8616-4e3e-885b-6a86121c2ccb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T115710.522.png" /></p>

<p>Here is a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">blow-by-blow account</a> of the hours when Putin's former chef served him a dish of 'treason'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More on The Capitals from capitals other than Moscow.</p>

<h2><strong>Washington DC, United States</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcc9d393-df46-4ffc-a0e3-db9197ad3e8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-23T091155.002_0.png" /></p>

<p><em>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour | AFP</em></p>

<p>A State Dinner in the White House. A subtle insertion of democratic values advocated by great Indian Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore — <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-the-mind-is-without-fear-biden-invokes-tagore-in-state-dinner-for-modi-607649">'Where the mind is without fear</a>' — and a mega bilateral convergence on business interests. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State Visit to the United States had everything but lows.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Riding on India's moment of growth, Modi addressed the US Congress, met top business leaders and brought home billions in investments. India announced that it will sign Artemis Accords, a non-binding multilateral arrangement between the US and other governments designed to guide civil space exploration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two nations also hailed 'giant leap' in cooperation on space science, chip development and mineral security.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Paris, France</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f34142b5-3dfd-405d-b12d-eea703dcb655" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T154157.736.png" /></p>

<p><em>Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter</em></p>

<p>In yet another moment of Global South's geo-economic assertion, US dollar’s role as primary reserve currency for global trade was challenged at a finance summit in Paris by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after the US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defended the oversized role of US dollar in global markets.</p>

<p>"Why can’t we trade in our own currencies?" Brazilian President Lula asked an assertive US treasury secretary Janet Yellen.</p>

<p>South African President Ramaphosa said that the "issue of currency" would be discussed at the upcoming meeting of BRICS countries later this year, which South Africa is scheduled to host in August.</p>

<h2><strong>Athens, Greece</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Greece election" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="124177fd-5dbd-4b33-aa29-9c006e70102c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T210732.487.png" /></p>

<p><em>People visit the Areios Pagos hill, with the Acropolis' Propylaea seen in the background, in Athens, Greece | Representative image/Reuters</em></p>

<p>For the corridors of power in one of the world's oldest capitals, voters across Greece headed to a repeat election this weekend. Fomer Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term to form the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitsotakis' New Democratic party won the election on May 21, twenty points clear of rival Alexis Tsipras' Syriza party. However, it fell short of the majority needed to rule without forming a coalition. As election rules this time would accord up to 50 bonus seats to the winner of the vote, the New Democracy party is widely projected to emerge victorious.</p>

<p>That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, 'His Life and Times: Putin' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, 'His Life and Times: Putin' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory. But over the weekend, after Putin's own former chef-turned-businessman-turned-warlord directed his mercenaries towards Moscow, the shockwaves were felt across global capitals. The people in newsrooms, like this writer, felt they were witnessing history. A coup d'état appeared nearly imminent. But in less than 36 hours, the armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group led by its boss Yevgeny Prigozhin ended as dramatically as it began. Putin's shocking pragmatism prevailed after he deployed one of his vassal states' leaders to diffuse the crisis. Prigozhin is now in Belarus after pulling his men back to their bases. Here is a blow-by-blow account of the hours when Putin's former chef served him a dish of 'treason'. More on The Capitals from capitals other than Moscow. Washington DC, United States India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour | AFP A State Dinner in the White House. A subtle insertion of democratic values advocated by great Indian Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore — 'Where the mind is without fear' — and a mega bilateral convergence on business interests. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State Visit to the United States had everything but lows. Riding on India's moment of growth, Modi addressed the US Congress, met top business leaders and brought home billions in investments. India announced that it will sign Artemis Accords, a non-binding multilateral arrangement between the US and other governments designed to guide civil space exploration. The two nations also hailed 'giant leap' in cooperation on space science, chip development and mineral security. Paris, France Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter In yet another moment of Global South's geo-economic assertion, US dollar’s role as primary reserve currency for global trade was challenged at a finance summit in Paris by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after the US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defended the oversized role of US dollar in global markets. "Why can’t we trade in our own currencies?" Brazilian President Lula asked an assertive US treasury secretary Janet Yellen. South African President Ramaphosa said that the "issue of currency" would be discussed at the upcoming meeting of BRICS countries later this year, which South Africa is scheduled to host in August. Athens, Greece People visit the Areios Pagos hill, with the Acropolis' Propylaea seen in the background, in Athens, Greece | Representative image/Reuters For the corridors of power in one of the world's oldest capitals, voters across Greece headed to a repeat election this weekend. Fomer Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term to form the government. Mitsotakis' New Democratic party won the election on May 21, twenty points clear of rival Alexis Tsipras' Syriza party. However, it fell short of the majority needed to rule without forming a coalition. As election rules this time would accord up to 50 bonus seats to the winner of the vote, the New Democracy party is widely projected to emerge victorious. That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

The Capitals: Moscow dodges mutiny bullet, Global South cements its rise in Washington and Paris

<p lang="en-US">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi during his state visit to Egypt. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the relationship between the two countries during bilateral talks. PM Modi talked about trade and investment, defence and security, renewable energy, culture and people-to-people ties with President Sisi.<br />
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The two countries signed an agreement for elevating the bilateral relationship to a "Strategic Partnership".<br />
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Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted, “PM Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo on 25th June. The leaders discussed ways to further deepen the two countries' partnership, including trade &amp; investment, defence &amp; security, renewable energy, cultural and people-to-people ties. An agreement to elevate the bilateral relationship to a "Strategic Partnership" was signed by the leaders. Three MoUs in the fields of Agriculture, Archaeology &amp; Antiquities and Competition Law were also signed."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Synergising 🇮🇳-🇪🇬 multifaceted ties<br />
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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> held a productive meeting with President <a href="https://twitter.com/AlsisiOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AlsisiOfficial</a> in Cairo on 25 June 2023<br />
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The leaders discussed ways to further deepen the partnership between the two countries, including in trade &amp; investment, defence &amp; security,… <a href="https://t.co/RRAKmIKrho">pic.twitter.com/RRAKmIKrho</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1672910875890528257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>PM visits&nbsp;Al-Hakim Mosque,&nbsp;Pyramids of Giza</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile PM Modi, after visiting the Al-Hakim Mosque, tweeted, “Honored to visit the historic Al-Hakim Mosque in Cairo. It's a profound testament to Egypt's rich heritage and culture.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Honored to visit the historic Al-Hakim Mosque in Cairo. It's a profound testament to Egypt's rich heritage and culture. <a href="https://t.co/4VgzkagHcB">pic.twitter.com/4VgzkagHcB</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1672908491684745217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The prime minister, during his State Visit, also went on a tour of the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, Egypt.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, Egypt. <a href="https://t.co/hX94SGpQDZ">pic.twitter.com/hX94SGpQDZ</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1672928998761050112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>PM Modi conferred with 'Order of Nile'</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, the Indian prime minister was conferred with the 'Order of Nile', which is the highest civilian honour of Egypt, on Sunday. The&nbsp;Indian leader was conferred&nbsp;the rare gesture by Egyptian President&nbsp;El-Sisi&nbsp;as a mark of reflection of deepening India-Egypt ties.</p>

<p>Appreciating the success of the visit, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted, “The epic success of PM Narendra Modi as a statesman of global aura is now adorned with another honour as Egypt bestows its highest state honour, 'The Order of Nile Award,' on PM Modi. Narendra Modi is the only Indian PM to receive a maximum number of such awards from other countries.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The epic success of PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji as a statesman of global aura is now adorned with another honor as Egypt bestows its highest state honor, 'The Order of Nile Award,' on Modi Ji.<br />
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Modi Ji is the only Indian PM to receive a maximum number of such awards from other countries. <a href="https://t.co/a0mtSvv3iY">pic.twitter.com/a0mtSvv3iY</a></p>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1672905724425568258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian prime minister is on a state visit to Egypt from June 24-25. PM Modi on Sunday also went to the Heliopolis War Grave Cemetery in Egypt, where he paid tribute to Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the First World War.</p>

<p>The prime minister's official visit to Egypt comes months after President El-Sisi came to India as the chief guest of Republic Day celebrations in January. On Saturday, PM Modi and his Egyptian counterpart Mostafa Madbouly held a round-table meeting in Cairo.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi during his state visit to Egypt. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the relationship between the two countries during bilateral talks.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi during his state visit to Egypt. The two leaders discussed ways to further deepen the relationship between the two countries during bilateral talks. PM Modi talked about trade and investment, defence and security, renewable energy, culture and people-to-people ties with President Sisi. The two countries signed an agreement for elevating the bilateral relationship to a "Strategic Partnership". Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted, “PM Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo on 25th June. The leaders discussed ways to further deepen the two countries' partnership, including trade & investment, defence & security, renewable energy, cultural and people-to-people ties. An agreement to elevate the bilateral relationship to a "Strategic Partnership" was signed by the leaders. Three MoUs in the fields of Agriculture, Archaeology & Antiquities and Competition Law were also signed." Synergising 🇮🇳-🇪🇬 multifaceted ties PM @narendramodi held a productive meeting with President @AlsisiOfficial in Cairo on 25 June 2023 The leaders discussed ways to further deepen the partnership between the two countries, including in trade & investment, defence & security,… pic.twitter.com/RRAKmIKrho — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) June 25, 2023 × PM visits Al-Hakim Mosque, Pyramids of Giza Meanwhile PM Modi, after visiting the Al-Hakim Mosque, tweeted, “Honored to visit the historic Al-Hakim Mosque in Cairo. It's a profound testament to Egypt's rich heritage and culture.” Honored to visit the historic Al-Hakim Mosque in Cairo. It's a profound testament to Egypt's rich heritage and culture. pic.twitter.com/4VgzkagHcB — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 25, 2023 × The prime minister, during his State Visit, also went on a tour of the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, Egypt. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, Egypt. pic.twitter.com/hX94SGpQDZ — ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2023 × PM Modi conferred with 'Order of Nile' Earlier in the day, the Indian prime minister was conferred with the 'Order of Nile', which is the highest civilian honour of Egypt, on Sunday. The Indian leader was conferred the rare gesture by Egyptian President El-Sisi as a mark of reflection of deepening India-Egypt ties. Appreciating the success of the visit, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted, “The epic success of PM Narendra Modi as a statesman of global aura is now adorned with another honour as Egypt bestows its highest state honour, 'The Order of Nile Award,' on PM Modi. Narendra Modi is the only Indian PM to receive a maximum number of such awards from other countries.” The epic success of PM @narendramodi Ji as a statesman of global aura is now adorned with another honor as Egypt bestows its highest state honor, 'The Order of Nile Award,' on Modi Ji. Modi Ji is the only Indian PM to receive a maximum number of such awards from other countries. pic.twitter.com/a0mtSvv3iY — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) June 25, 2023 × The Indian prime minister is on a state visit to Egypt from June 24-25. PM Modi on Sunday also went to the Heliopolis War Grave Cemetery in Egypt, where he paid tribute to Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the First World War. The prime minister's official visit to Egypt comes months after President El-Sisi came to India as the chief guest of Republic Day celebrations in January. On Saturday, PM Modi and his Egyptian counterpart Mostafa Madbouly held a round-table meeting in Cairo. (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

Indian PM Modi discusses defence, trade with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the 'Order of Nile', Egypt's highest civilian honour on Sunday.&nbsp;Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi conferred the Indian leader with the rare gesture in a mark of reflection of growing India-Egypt ties.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi confers PM Narendra Modi with 'Order of the Nile' award, in Cairo<br />
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'Order of the Nile', is Egypt's highest state honour. <a href="https://t.co/XvY4NFsIpu">pic.twitter.com/XvY4NFsIpu</a></p>
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<p>Prime Minister Modi met Egyptian President&nbsp;Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo earlier on Sunday. Prior to that, Modi visited the historic Al-Hakim Mosque.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Al-Hakim Mosque&nbsp;is an 11th-century historical and cultural site in Egypt's&nbsp;Cairo. The mosque stands as a testament to the cultural heritage shared between the civilisations between the nation of Ganges and nation of Nile.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> visits Al-Hakim Mosque in Egypt<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModiInEgypt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModiInEgypt</a> <a href="https://t.co/SfVkLSpyl5">pic.twitter.com/SfVkLSpyl5</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1672876720159072256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi was on a state visit to Egypt from June 24-25.</p>

<p>On Sunday, the Prime Minister also visited the Heliopolis War Grave Cemetery in Egypt and paid tribute to Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during the first World War.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InPics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InPics</a> | Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> visits Heliopolis War Cemetery in Egypt's Cairo and pays tribute to Indian soldiers.<br />
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(Courtesy: ANI)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMinEgypt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMinEgypt</a> <a href="https://t.co/Oiyv2nvSJK">pic.twitter.com/Oiyv2nvSJK</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1672883270210449408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi's Egypt visit comes months after&nbsp;President El-Sisi's&nbsp;presence as the Chief Guest at India's Republic Day celebrations in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Modi held a roundtable meeting with his Egyptian counterpart Mostafa Madbouly in Cairo on Saturday.</p>

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India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the 'Order of Nile', Egypt's highest civilian honour on Sunday. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi conferred the Indian leader with the rare gesture in a mark of reflection of growing India-Egypt ties.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the 'Order of Nile', Egypt's highest civilian honour on Sunday. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi conferred the Indian leader with the rare gesture in a mark of reflection of growing India-Egypt ties. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi confers PM Narendra Modi with 'Order of the Nile' award, in Cairo 'Order of the Nile', is Egypt's highest state honour. pic.twitter.com/XvY4NFsIpu — WION (@WIONews) June 25, 2023 × Prime Minister Modi met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo earlier on Sunday. Prior to that, Modi visited the historic Al-Hakim Mosque. The Al-Hakim Mosque is an 11th-century historical and cultural site in Egypt's Cairo. The mosque stands as a testament to the cultural heritage shared between the civilisations between the nation of Ganges and nation of Nile. Indian Prime Minister #NarendraModi visits Al-Hakim Mosque in Egypt#PMModiInEgypt pic.twitter.com/SfVkLSpyl5 — WION (@WIONews) June 25, 2023 × PM Modi was on a state visit to Egypt from June 24-25. On Sunday, the Prime Minister also visited the Heliopolis War Grave Cemetery in Egypt and paid tribute to Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during the first World War. #InPics | Indian Prime Minister #NarendraModi visits Heliopolis War Cemetery in Egypt's Cairo and pays tribute to Indian soldiers. (Courtesy: ANI)#PMinEgypt pic.twitter.com/Oiyv2nvSJK — WION (@WIONews) June 25, 2023 × PM Modi's Egypt visit comes months after President El-Sisi's presence as the Chief Guest at India's Republic Day celebrations in January. Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Modi held a roundtable meeting with his Egyptian counterpart Mostafa Madbouly in Cairo on Saturday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | India's PM Modi conferred with Egypt's highest civilian honour ‘Order of Nile’

<p>The tangy and sweet flavours of Indian cuisine dominate the global culinary landscape. With Indian diaspora spread far and wide, the Indian flavours too have become part-and-parcel of local cuisine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese,&nbsp;accompanied by local MP Andrew Charlton, ventured to the vibrant Little India precinct in a Sydney suburb&nbsp;to sample popular Indian street food such as 'chaat' and 'jalebi', as suggested by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Australia visit last month.</p>

<p id="1">Albanese wrote on Twitter, "Great Friday night in Little India, Harris Park with Andrew Charlton. We tried out Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recommendations of chaat at Chatkazz and jalebi at Jaipur Sweets - a winner!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Great Friday night in Little India, Harris Park with <a href="https://twitter.com/Charlton_AB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Charlton_AB</a>. We tried out Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>'s recommendations of chaat at Chatkazz and jalebi at Jaipur Sweets - a winner! <a href="https://t.co/biy3Fo4aKQ">pic.twitter.com/biy3Fo4aKQ</a></p>
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlboMP/status/1672199106335506434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Located in Parramatta in Sydney's western suburbs, Harris Park is renowned for its sizable Indian community and is widely recognised as a hub for Indian cuisine, hosting numerous Indian-owned businesses and shops.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/a-british-chefs-passion-for-snack-famous-in-indian-streets-565438">A British chef's passion for snacks famous in Indian streets</a></strong></p>

<p>During a significant event held at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Modi and Albanese jointly inaugurated the 'Little India' gateway, symbolising the strong cultural ties between Australia and India and elevating bilateral interactions between the two.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi, in his address to the community event in Sydney during his visit, had enthusiastically recommended the delectable "Chaat" and "Jalebi" from Jaipur Sweets at Harris Park, urging everyone to accompany his esteemed friend, Prime Minister Albanese, to savour the Indian flavours at the famous restaurant.</p>

<h2><strong>Prime Minister Narendra Modi responds to Albanese</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to Anthony Albanese on Twitter, Modi wrote: "Sounds like a memorable Friday night, imbibing the best of Indian culture and culinary diversity. A winner indeed, like the India-Australia friendship."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sounds like a memorable Friday night, imbibing the best of Indian culture and culinary diversity. A winner indeed, like the India-Australia friendship. <a href="https://t.co/ySAiGBzgjJ">https://t.co/ySAiGBzgjJ</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1672254828590821377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p id="10">Parramatta’s Harris Park holds a special place for Indian cuisine enthusiasts. This particular&nbsp;neighbourhood is famous for its wide range of culinary offerings at a number of&nbsp;Indian-owned businesses.</p>

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The tangy and sweet flavours of Indian cuisine dominate the global culinary landscape. With Indian diaspora spread far and wide, the Indian flavours too have become part-and-parcel of local cuisine.

The tangy and sweet flavours of Indian cuisine dominate the global culinary landscape. With Indian diaspora spread far and wide, the Indian flavours too have become part-and-parcel of local cuisine. Recently, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, accompanied by local MP Andrew Charlton, ventured to the vibrant Little India precinct in a Sydney suburb to sample popular Indian street food such as 'chaat' and 'jalebi', as suggested by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Australia visit last month. Albanese wrote on Twitter, "Great Friday night in Little India, Harris Park with Andrew Charlton. We tried out Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recommendations of chaat at Chatkazz and jalebi at Jaipur Sweets - a winner!" Great Friday night in Little India, Harris Park with @Charlton_AB. We tried out Prime Minister @narendramodi's recommendations of chaat at Chatkazz and jalebi at Jaipur Sweets - a winner! pic.twitter.com/biy3Fo4aKQ — Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) June 23, 2023 × Located in Parramatta in Sydney's western suburbs, Harris Park is renowned for its sizable Indian community and is widely recognised as a hub for Indian cuisine, hosting numerous Indian-owned businesses and shops. Also read | A British chef's passion for snacks famous in Indian streets During a significant event held at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Modi and Albanese jointly inaugurated the 'Little India' gateway, symbolising the strong cultural ties between Australia and India and elevating bilateral interactions between the two. Modi, in his address to the community event in Sydney during his visit, had enthusiastically recommended the delectable "Chaat" and "Jalebi" from Jaipur Sweets at Harris Park, urging everyone to accompany his esteemed friend, Prime Minister Albanese, to savour the Indian flavours at the famous restaurant. Prime Minister Narendra Modi responds to Albanese Responding to Anthony Albanese on Twitter, Modi wrote: "Sounds like a memorable Friday night, imbibing the best of Indian culture and culinary diversity. A winner indeed, like the India-Australia friendship." Sounds like a memorable Friday night, imbibing the best of Indian culture and culinary diversity. A winner indeed, like the India-Australia friendship. https://t.co/ySAiGBzgjJ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 23, 2023 × Parramatta’s Harris Park holds a special place for Indian cuisine enthusiasts. This particular neighbourhood is famous for its wide range of culinary offerings at a number of Indian-owned businesses. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Modi-Albanese share ‘chaat-jalebi’ bonhomie amid growing India-Australia ties

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the Indian diaspora in Washington DC, made a big announcement for the H1B visa holders.</p>

<p>Giving relief to the professionals, he said that now people will not have to travel abroad to renew their work visas.</p>

<p>"America's new consulates will be opened in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. It has now been decided that the H1B visa renewal can be done in the US itself," PM Modi said while addressing the Indian diaspora at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington DC.</p>

<p>The big move came after a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Modi and US President Joe Biden and was part of a people-to-people initiative.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | America's new consulates will be opened in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. It has now been decided that the H1B visa renewal can be done in the US itself: PM Modi addressing the Indian diaspora at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC <a href="https://t.co/rIilreaJcy">pic.twitter.com/rIilreaJcy</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1672396730720206849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The US authorities released a statement saying that they will introduce &nbsp;'in-country' renewable H-1B visas as part of the people-to-people initiative to smoothen the process of H-1B visa renewal for several Indians who are working in the US on an H-1B visa.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India to open new consulate in Seattle&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>India is all set to open a new consulate in Seattle this year. Apart from this, Indian Consulates will be opened in two&nbsp;more cities in America.</p>

<p>"Together we are not just forming policies and agreements, we are shaping<br />
lives, dreams and destinies," said PM Modi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/right-time-to-invest-grow-with-india-pm-modi-tells-top-american-ceos-608050">‘Right time to invest, grow with India,’ PM Modi tells top American CEOs</a></p>

<p>This move came after both countries welcomed an announcement by the US Department of State of launching a pilot to adjudicate domestic renewals of certain petition-based temporary work visas later this year.</p>

<p>"The leaders welcomed an announcement by the U.S. Department of State that it would launch a pilot to adjudicate domestic renewals of certain petition-based temporary work visas later this year, including for Indian nationals, with the intent to implement this for an expanded pool of H1B and L visa holders in 2024 and eventually broadening the programme to include other eligible categories," the India-US joint statement said.</p>

<p>While acknowledging the important steps taken to augment the processing of visa applications, the leaders noted in the joint statement, "the pressing need to further expedite this process". The leaders also directed officials to identify additional mechanisms to facilitate travel for business, tourism, and professional and technical exchanges between the two countries.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the Indian diaspora in Washington DC, made a big announcement for the H1B visa holders. Giving relief to the professionals, he said that now people will not have to travel abroad to renew their work visas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the Indian diaspora in Washington DC, made a big announcement for the H1B visa holders. Giving relief to the professionals, he said that now people will not have to travel abroad to renew their work visas. "America's new consulates will be opened in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. It has now been decided that the H1B visa renewal can be done in the US itself," PM Modi said while addressing the Indian diaspora at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington DC. The big move came after a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Modi and US President Joe Biden and was part of a people-to-people initiative. #WATCH | America's new consulates will be opened in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. It has now been decided that the H1B visa renewal can be done in the US itself: PM Modi addressing the Indian diaspora at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC pic.twitter.com/rIilreaJcy — ANI (@ANI) June 24, 2023 × The US authorities released a statement saying that they will introduce 'in-country' renewable H-1B visas as part of the people-to-people initiative to smoothen the process of H-1B visa renewal for several Indians who are working in the US on an H-1B visa. India to open new consulate in Seattle India is all set to open a new consulate in Seattle this year. Apart from this, Indian Consulates will be opened in two more cities in America. "Together we are not just forming policies and agreements, we are shaping lives, dreams and destinies," said PM Modi. Also read: ‘Right time to invest, grow with India,’ PM Modi tells top American CEOs This move came after both countries welcomed an announcement by the US Department of State of launching a pilot to adjudicate domestic renewals of certain petition-based temporary work visas later this year. "The leaders welcomed an announcement by the U.S. Department of State that it would launch a pilot to adjudicate domestic renewals of certain petition-based temporary work visas later this year, including for Indian nationals, with the intent to implement this for an expanded pool of H1B and L visa holders in 2024 and eventually broadening the programme to include other eligible categories," the India-US joint statement said. While acknowledging the important steps taken to augment the processing of visa applications, the leaders noted in the joint statement, "the pressing need to further expedite this process". The leaders also directed officials to identify additional mechanisms to facilitate travel for business, tourism, and professional and technical exchanges between the two countries. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi makes big announcement for H1B visa holders in address to Indian diaspora

<p lang="en-US">American singer Mary Millben, after singing India's national anthem <em>Jana Gana Mana</em>, touched Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's feet to seek blessing at the concluding event for the prime minister's state visit.<br />
<br />
38-year-old Millben sang the Indian national anthem at an invitation-only programme, which was held at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington DC. The event was hosted by the United States Indian Community Foundation (USICF).</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Mary Millben says ‘deeply honoured’</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Mary Millben, who is a prominent African-American Hollywood actress and singer, enjoys popularity in India for singing National Anthem <em>Jan Gana Mana</em> and <em>Om Jai Jagdish Hare</em>.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">American singer Mary Milliben, after singing India’s national anthem, touches Prime Minister Modi’s feet… Earlier Prime Minister of PNG, in a moving gesture, had bowed down in reverence. The world respects PM Modi’s powerful spiritual aura and rootedness in Indian values and… <a href="https://t.co/qoA7ALLA3U">pic.twitter.com/qoA7ALLA3U</a></p>
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1672427088056578050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before the event, Millben had said that she was "deeply honoured" to get this opportunity of performing the Indian national anthem for Prime Minister Modi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO, READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/modi-biden-exchange-valuable-gifts-during-white-house-dinner-607239">Modi, Biden exchange valuable gifts during White House dinner</a></p>

<p>"Having performed the American national anthem and patriotic music for four consecutive US presidents, I am deeply honoured to perform the Indian national anthem for Prime Minister Modi and in honour of the country and people I have come to call my family," Millben said in a statement.<br />
<br />
"Both the American and Indian anthems speak to the ideals of democracy and freedom, and this is the true essence of the US-India relationship. A free nation is only defined by a free people," she further stated.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“I will rest in the end, knowing that anything I did of great significance is because He (God) did it through me.”<br />
<br />
Tonight as I perform the Indian National Anthem for Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and distinguished guests, India and Indian communities across the world, you are… <a href="https://t.co/RXMVfLsCQg">pic.twitter.com/RXMVfLsCQg</a></p>
— Mary Millben (@MaryMillben) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryMillben/status/1672207293180518401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Leaders appreciate the gesture</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Reacting over the singer's gesture, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma tweeted, "Indian culture possesses a remarkable beauty, as its values transcend boundaries effortlessly. Through the humble act of touching the feet of Hon PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, @MaryMillbenhas exemplified profound respect for our ancient values. It truly represents the idea of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future."</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi in US: PM Modi concludes US State visit with address to Indian diaspora</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US"><br />
Meanwhile, BJP MP Col Rajyavardhan Rathore said, "From Papua New Guinea in the East to the United States in the West, Prime Minister Modi is a charismatic leader who commands respect &amp; admiration that transcends international borders.”</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>PM garners love and respect from around the world</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">Across the world, people have greatly respected the powerful spiritual aura of the prime minister and his rootedness in Indian values and culture.</p>

<p lang="en-US">Last month, during an official visit to Papua New Guinea, the prime minister of the Pacific Island nation touched the feet of PM Modi as a mark of respect. A similar gesture was performed by a man and a woman when the prime minister was departing from the country, as they bowed in front of PM Modi with their heads touching the ground.&nbsp;</p>

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American singer Mary Millben, after singing India's national anthem Jana Gana Mana, touched Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's feet to seek blessing at the concluding event for the prime minister's state visit.

American singer Mary Millben, after singing India's national anthem Jana Gana Mana, touched Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's feet to seek blessing at the concluding event for the prime minister's state visit. 38-year-old Millben sang the Indian national anthem at an invitation-only programme, which was held at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington DC. The event was hosted by the United States Indian Community Foundation (USICF). Mary Millben says ‘deeply honoured’ Mary Millben, who is a prominent African-American Hollywood actress and singer, enjoys popularity in India for singing National Anthem Jan Gana Mana and Om Jai Jagdish Hare. American singer Mary Milliben, after singing India’s national anthem, touches Prime Minister Modi’s feet… Earlier Prime Minister of PNG, in a moving gesture, had bowed down in reverence. The world respects PM Modi’s powerful spiritual aura and rootedness in Indian values and… pic.twitter.com/qoA7ALLA3U — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) June 24, 2023 × Before the event, Millben had said that she was "deeply honoured" to get this opportunity of performing the Indian national anthem for Prime Minister Modi. ALSO, READ | Modi, Biden exchange valuable gifts during White House dinner "Having performed the American national anthem and patriotic music for four consecutive US presidents, I am deeply honoured to perform the Indian national anthem for Prime Minister Modi and in honour of the country and people I have come to call my family," Millben said in a statement. "Both the American and Indian anthems speak to the ideals of democracy and freedom, and this is the true essence of the US-India relationship. A free nation is only defined by a free people," she further stated. “I will rest in the end, knowing that anything I did of great significance is because He (God) did it through me.” Tonight as I perform the Indian National Anthem for Prime Minister @narendramodi and distinguished guests, India and Indian communities across the world, you are… pic.twitter.com/RXMVfLsCQg — Mary Millben (@MaryMillben) June 23, 2023 × Leaders appreciate the gesture Reacting over the singer's gesture, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma tweeted, "Indian culture possesses a remarkable beauty, as its values transcend boundaries effortlessly. Through the humble act of touching the feet of Hon PM Shri @narendramodi Ji, @MaryMillbenhas exemplified profound respect for our ancient values. It truly represents the idea of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future." WATCH | PM Modi in US: PM Modi concludes US State visit with address to Indian diaspora Meanwhile, BJP MP Col Rajyavardhan Rathore said, "From Papua New Guinea in the East to the United States in the West, Prime Minister Modi is a charismatic leader who commands respect & admiration that transcends international borders.” PM garners love and respect from around the world Across the world, people have greatly respected the powerful spiritual aura of the prime minister and his rootedness in Indian values and culture. Last month, during an official visit to Papua New Guinea, the prime minister of the Pacific Island nation touched the feet of PM Modi as a mark of respect. A similar gesture was performed by a man and a woman when the prime minister was departing from the country, as they bowed in front of PM Modi with their heads touching the ground. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH | Singer Mary Millben sings India’s national anthem, touches PM Modi’s feet

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday attended the 'Hi-Tech Handshake' event at the White House where he interacted with the top CEOs of India and the United States.</p>

<p>During the event, he underlined the significance of technology and how it can help a country progress. He further said that talent and technology, if combined together can lead towards a brighter future.</p>

<p>"The coming together of talent and technology guarantees a brighter future," said PM Modi at the Hi-Tech Handshake event with top CEOs of the US and India at the White House.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
PM Modi during the event met with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Apple&nbsp;CEO Tim Cook, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra, Reliance Industries Chairman and MD Mukesh Ambani, Zerodha and True Beacon Co-Founder Nikhil Kamath&nbsp;and several others.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At the White House today, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> and I met top CEOs associated with tech and innovation to explore ways in which technology can fuel India-USA relations. Harnessing tech for societal betterment is a common goal that binds us, promising a brighter future for our people. <a href="https://t.co/lpxCtuxmzq">pic.twitter.com/lpxCtuxmzq</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1672333175710679041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Joe Biden during the event said, "India, US cooperation matters, not just for our own people but quite frankly to the whole world as our partnership is about more than the next breakthrough or the next deal as big as they may be. It is about tackling climate change, about exploring the universe, about lifting people out of poverty, preventing pandemics &amp; giving our citizens real opportunity."</p>

<h2><strong>US State Department along with VP Kamala Harris host PM Modi at luncheon</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, the US State Department along with Vice President Kamala Harris hosted PM Modi at a luncheon where US Secretary of State Antony Blinken underlined how India is a part of their daily lives.</p>

<p>"Here in the US, India is part of our daily lives. We enjoy our Jhumpa Lahiri novels over samosas. We laugh at the comedies of Mindy Kaling. We dance to the beats of Diljit at Coachella. We keep ourselves more or less fit and healthy doing Yoga," said Blinken.</p>

<p>Blinken then raised a toast to the India-US relations at the state kuncheon.</p>

<p>"Whether we call it the American dream or Indian dream...our people believe profoundly in opportunity. No matter who we are or where we come from, we can make something more of ourselves," said Blinken as he raised a toast "to the shared hopes of the US and India."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Attended a luncheon at the <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StateDept</a>, where I had the opportunity to interact with <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a> and several other distinguished people from different walks of life. <a href="https://t.co/0ahdWesS7H">pic.twitter.com/0ahdWesS7H</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1672334600591245319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>US Vice President Kamala Harris on the other hand also reflected upon the impact the Indian Americans have had on the United States in every facet of life.</p>

<p>"I am struck by the extraordinary impact Indian Americans have had on our country in every facet of life. Take for example the historic number of members of the United States Congress with Indian heritage," the US Vice President said at the state luncheon attended by PM Narendra Modi on Friday.</p>

<p>"Prime Minister Modi, we are honoured to welcome you. We also welcome the members of the President's Cabinet who are here and all of the members of Congress who are here," she said.</p>

<p>The US Vice President further said: "We see the impact of Indian Americans from American companies to neighbourhood businesses, from the studios of Hollywood to university research labs across our country."</p>

<p>She said India is an important part of her life. "When my sister Maya and I were growing up, our mother would take us to India pretty much every other year. And the purpose of those trips was that we would well understand where she came from, what produced her, so that we could spend time with our grandparents, with my uncle," Harris said during her address.</p>

<p>"As I travel the world as Vice-President, I've seen the impact of India's global impact. In South East Asia, India-made vaccines saved lives. In the African continent, India's longstanding partnerships support prosperity and security. Through the Indo-Pacific, India helps promote a free and open region," she added.</p>

<p>PM Modi was on his sixth, and maiden&nbsp;state visit to the United States.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday attended the 'Hi-Tech Handshake' event at the White House where he interacted with the top CEOs of India and the United States.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday attended the 'Hi-Tech Handshake' event at the White House where he interacted with the top CEOs of India and the United States. During the event, he underlined the significance of technology and how it can help a country progress. He further said that talent and technology, if combined together can lead towards a brighter future. "The coming together of talent and technology guarantees a brighter future," said PM Modi at the Hi-Tech Handshake event with top CEOs of the US and India at the White House. PM Modi during the event met with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra, Reliance Industries Chairman and MD Mukesh Ambani, Zerodha and True Beacon Co-Founder Nikhil Kamath and several others. At the White House today, @POTUS @JoeBiden and I met top CEOs associated with tech and innovation to explore ways in which technology can fuel India-USA relations. Harnessing tech for societal betterment is a common goal that binds us, promising a brighter future for our people. pic.twitter.com/lpxCtuxmzq — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 23, 2023 × President Joe Biden during the event said, "India, US cooperation matters, not just for our own people but quite frankly to the whole world as our partnership is about more than the next breakthrough or the next deal as big as they may be. It is about tackling climate change, about exploring the universe, about lifting people out of poverty, preventing pandemics & giving our citizens real opportunity." US State Department along with VP Kamala Harris host PM Modi at luncheon On Friday, the US State Department along with Vice President Kamala Harris hosted PM Modi at a luncheon where US Secretary of State Antony Blinken underlined how India is a part of their daily lives. "Here in the US, India is part of our daily lives. We enjoy our Jhumpa Lahiri novels over samosas. We laugh at the comedies of Mindy Kaling. We dance to the beats of Diljit at Coachella. We keep ourselves more or less fit and healthy doing Yoga," said Blinken. Blinken then raised a toast to the India-US relations at the state kuncheon. "Whether we call it the American dream or Indian dream...our people believe profoundly in opportunity. No matter who we are or where we come from, we can make something more of ourselves," said Blinken as he raised a toast "to the shared hopes of the US and India." Attended a luncheon at the @StateDept, where I had the opportunity to interact with @VP @KamalaHarris, @SecBlinken and several other distinguished people from different walks of life. pic.twitter.com/0ahdWesS7H — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 23, 2023 × US Vice President Kamala Harris on the other hand also reflected upon the impact the Indian Americans have had on the United States in every facet of life. "I am struck by the extraordinary impact Indian Americans have had on our country in every facet of life. Take for example the historic number of members of the United States Congress with Indian heritage," the US Vice President said at the state luncheon attended by PM Narendra Modi on Friday. "Prime Minister Modi, we are honoured to welcome you. We also welcome the members of the President's Cabinet who are here and all of the members of Congress who are here," she said. The US Vice President further said: "We see the impact of Indian Americans from American companies to neighbourhood businesses, from the studios of Hollywood to university research labs across our country." She said India is an important part of her life. "When my sister Maya and I were growing up, our mother would take us to India pretty much every other year. And the purpose of those trips was that we would well understand where she came from, what produced her, so that we could spend time with our grandparents, with my uncle," Harris said during her address. "As I travel the world as Vice-President, I've seen the impact of India's global impact. In South East Asia, India-made vaccines saved lives. In the African continent, India's longstanding partnerships support prosperity and security. Through the Indo-Pacific, India helps promote a free and open region," she added. PM Modi was on his sixth, and maiden state visit to the United States. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi meets top CEOs in US, says talent and technology can create brighter future

<p>As he wraps up his state visit to the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a stop in Egypt on June 24 and 25. During his visit to Egypt, the two countries will strengthen the ties and boost co-operation in many fields, including security, trade, investment and more.<br />
<br />
While the diplomatic talks between the two countries go on, PM Modi will visit&nbsp;the Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah mosque on June 24.&nbsp;It is located in the Egyptian capital Cairo. It is the fourth oldest mosque in Egypt and the second largest after the mosque of ibn Tulun.</p>

<p>The Al-Hakim-Amr Allah mosque was constructed under&nbsp;the Fatimid dynasty. The sixth Fatimid Caliph Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah gave orders to build the mosque in 990 AD.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | PM Modi in US: India and US announces strategic and defence deals</strong></p>

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<p>The centuries-old structure has stood the test of time. But the passage of it has not been kind to the structure. When French armed forces were in Egypt, they used the mosque as a barrack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mosque was restored by Dawoodi Bohra community in Cairo with help from Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.</p>

<h2><strong>So why exactly is PM Modi visiting this mosque?</strong></h2>

<p>The mosque is an important religious site for Dawoodi Bohra community. India has a large population of Dawoodi Bohra community. Besides, PM Modi has a connect with the community. His home state of Gujarat has Dawoodi Bohra population. PM Modi has often thanked the community for helping him govern the state of Gujarat.</p>

<p>In 2011, when he was chief minister of Gujarat, he invited the community to celebrate the 100th birthday of their religious head Syedna Burhanuddin. When Syedna passed away in 2014, Modi went to Mumbai to pay his respects and meet the successor Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, who is the current head of the community. PM Modi has always shared cordial relationship with Syedna Saifuddin.</p>

<p>PM Modi has often praised business acumen of the community and their social reforms measures. He has also mentioned how the community helped and hosted Mahatma Gandhi during Dandi March, an iconic event in India's freedom struggle.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-addresses-top-ceos-in-us-underlines-impact-of-indian-americans-at-luncheon-608004">PM Modi addresses top CEOs in US, underlines impact of Indian-Americans at luncheon</a></strong></p>

<p>The community has supported PM Modi as well. In 2014, the community turned up in good numbers for PM Modi's overseas events. These events included one in Madison Square Garden (New York) and Olympic Park Arena in Sydney.</p>

<p>PM Modi's visit to Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah mosque is likely to strengthen his bond with the Dawoodi Bohra community.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As he wraps up his state visit to the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a stop in Egypt on June 24 and 25. During his visit to Egypt, the two countries will strengthen the ties and boost co-operation in many fields, including security, trade, investment and more.

As he wraps up his state visit to the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a stop in Egypt on June 24 and 25. During his visit to Egypt, the two countries will strengthen the ties and boost co-operation in many fields, including security, trade, investment and more. While the diplomatic talks between the two countries go on, PM Modi will visit the Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah mosque on June 24. It is located in the Egyptian capital Cairo. It is the fourth oldest mosque in Egypt and the second largest after the mosque of ibn Tulun. The Al-Hakim-Amr Allah mosque was constructed under the Fatimid dynasty. The sixth Fatimid Caliph Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah gave orders to build the mosque in 990 AD. Watch | PM Modi in US: India and US announces strategic and defence deals × The centuries-old structure has stood the test of time. But the passage of it has not been kind to the structure. When French armed forces were in Egypt, they used the mosque as a barrack. The mosque was restored by Dawoodi Bohra community in Cairo with help from Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. So why exactly is PM Modi visiting this mosque? The mosque is an important religious site for Dawoodi Bohra community. India has a large population of Dawoodi Bohra community. Besides, PM Modi has a connect with the community. His home state of Gujarat has Dawoodi Bohra population. PM Modi has often thanked the community for helping him govern the state of Gujarat. In 2011, when he was chief minister of Gujarat, he invited the community to celebrate the 100th birthday of their religious head Syedna Burhanuddin. When Syedna passed away in 2014, Modi went to Mumbai to pay his respects and meet the successor Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, who is the current head of the community. PM Modi has always shared cordial relationship with Syedna Saifuddin. PM Modi has often praised business acumen of the community and their social reforms measures. He has also mentioned how the community helped and hosted Mahatma Gandhi during Dandi March, an iconic event in India's freedom struggle. Also Read | PM Modi addresses top CEOs in US, underlines impact of Indian-Americans at luncheon The community has supported PM Modi as well. In 2014, the community turned up in good numbers for PM Modi's overseas events. These events included one in Madison Square Garden (New York) and Olympic Park Arena in Sydney. PM Modi's visit to Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah mosque is likely to strengthen his bond with the Dawoodi Bohra community. (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 will visit mosque in Cairo during Egypt trip, here's what's special about it

<p>Barack Obama, the former president of the United States issued concerns about India as he said on Thursday (June 22) that New Delhi risks "pulling apart" if the Muslim minority is not respected. He also called for the matter to be raised with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a US visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Obama said that if he had the chance, he would speak to PM Modi about all the concerns over the protection of the rights of ethnic minorities in India. He admitted that he has worked with PM Modi on climate change and other areas, however, also said that the issues of democracy also need to be discussed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On one side, the White House rolled out the red carpet for PM Modi and US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden welcomed him with pomp and show, on the other hand, Obama spoke about minority issues while speaking in a CNN interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former president said that addressing human rights with allies was always "complicated" on a visit to Greece where he is holding a weeklong session for emerging global leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-us-ties-pm-modi-and-biden-hail-most-defining-relationships-of-21st-century-607492">India-US ties: PM Modi and Biden hail 'most defining relationship of 21st century'</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>In an interview with CNN International anchor Christiane Amanpour, Obama said, "I think it is true that if the president meets with Prime Minister Modi, then the protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India, that's something worth mentioning."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"If I had a conversation with Prime Minister Modi, who I know well, part of my argument would be that if you do not protect the rights of ethnic minorities in India, that there is a strong possibility at some point that India starts pulling apart," Obama said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We've seen what happens when you start getting those kinds of large internal conflicts. So that would be contrary to the interests not just of Muslim India but also of Hindu India," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ge-aerospace-signs-mou-with-hal-for-production-of-fighter-jet-engines-for-iaf-607330">'Historic agreement': GE Aerospace signs MoU with HAL for production of fighter jet engines for IAF</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;The future of India, US defence ties</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>PM Modi's US visit</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi is currently on a State visit to the US, one Thursday he reached the White House and was greeted by around 7,000 Indian Americans when he arrived on the South Lawn, wearing a flowing white kurta with a sky-blue jacket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US delegation, led by Vice President Kamala Harris, was there. The Indian delegation was led by Indian foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, FS Vinay Kwatra and Indian ambassador to the US Taranjit Sandhu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While welcoming PM Modi, Biden said, "I have long believed that the relationship between the US and India will be one of the most defining relationships of the 21st century. The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the United States work and lead together."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Barack Obama, the former president of the United States issued concerns about India as he said on Thursday (June 22) that New Delhi risks "pulling apart" if the Muslim minority is not respected.

Barack Obama, the former president of the United States issued concerns about India as he said on Thursday (June 22) that New Delhi risks "pulling apart" if the Muslim minority is not respected. He also called for the matter to be raised with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a US visit. Obama said that if he had the chance, he would speak to PM Modi about all the concerns over the protection of the rights of ethnic minorities in India. He admitted that he has worked with PM Modi on climate change and other areas, however, also said that the issues of democracy also need to be discussed. On one side, the White House rolled out the red carpet for PM Modi and US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden welcomed him with pomp and show, on the other hand, Obama spoke about minority issues while speaking in a CNN interview. The former president said that addressing human rights with allies was always "complicated" on a visit to Greece where he is holding a weeklong session for emerging global leaders. Also read: India-US ties: PM Modi and Biden hail 'most defining relationship of 21st century' In an interview with CNN International anchor Christiane Amanpour, Obama said, "I think it is true that if the president meets with Prime Minister Modi, then the protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India, that's something worth mentioning." "If I had a conversation with Prime Minister Modi, who I know well, part of my argument would be that if you do not protect the rights of ethnic minorities in India, that there is a strong possibility at some point that India starts pulling apart," Obama said. "We've seen what happens when you start getting those kinds of large internal conflicts. So that would be contrary to the interests not just of Muslim India but also of Hindu India," he added. Also read: 'Historic agreement': GE Aerospace signs MoU with HAL for production of fighter jet engines for IAF Watch: The future of India, US defence ties × PM Modi's US visit PM Modi is currently on a State visit to the US, one Thursday he reached the White House and was greeted by around 7,000 Indian Americans when he arrived on the South Lawn, wearing a flowing white kurta with a sky-blue jacket. The US delegation, led by Vice President Kamala Harris, was there. The Indian delegation was led by Indian foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, FS Vinay Kwatra and Indian ambassador to the US Taranjit Sandhu. While welcoming PM Modi, Biden said, "I have long believed that the relationship between the US and India will be one of the most defining relationships of the 21st century. The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the United States work and lead together." (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.

Obama says India risks 'pulling apart' without minority rights as PM Modi visits US

<p>Looks like the craze around '<em>Naatu Naatu</em>', the Oscars-winning song from <em>RRR</em>, isn't over just yet. On Thursday, the blockbuster song found a mention in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at the state dinner in the White House.&nbsp;<br />
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"With every passing day, Indians and Americans are getting to know each other better. We can pronounce each other's name correctly, we can understand each other's accent better...Children in India become Spider-Man on Halloween and America's youth is dancing to the tunes of '<em>Naatu Naatu</em>', " said PM Modi.&nbsp;<br />
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SS Rajamouli's <em>RRR</em> featuring Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Alia Bhatt and Ajay Devgn was one of the top-grossing films of 2022. The film's iconic song '<em>Naatu Naatu</em>' won Best Song Oscar as well as a Golden Globe award for music composer MM Keeravani and lyricist Chandrabose. The song was also performed live on the Oscar stage in March this year by singers Rahul Sipligunj and Kala Bhairava. The song was presented at the ceremony by Deepika Padukone.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
On Thursday, PM Modi stated that the state dinner evening was made special by the presence of the people of two countries, as he called them, "most precious assets."<br />
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The White House had invited more than 400 guests for the dinner at the specially decorated pavilion on the South Lawn of the White House.&nbsp;</p>

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Looks like the craze around 'Naatu Naatu', the Oscars-winning song from RRR, isn't over just yet. On Thursday, the blockbuster song found a mention in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at the state dinner in the White House.

Looks like the craze around 'Naatu Naatu', the Oscars-winning song from RRR, isn't over just yet. On Thursday, the blockbuster song found a mention in Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech at the state dinner in the White House. "With every passing day, Indians and Americans are getting to know each other better. We can pronounce each other's name correctly, we can understand each other's accent better...Children in India become Spider-Man on Halloween and America's youth is dancing to the tunes of 'Naatu Naatu', " said PM Modi. SS Rajamouli's RRR featuring Ram Charan, Jr NTR, Alia Bhatt and Ajay Devgn was one of the top-grossing films of 2022. The film's iconic song 'Naatu Naatu' won Best Song Oscar as well as a Golden Globe award for music composer MM Keeravani and lyricist Chandrabose. The song was also performed live on the Oscar stage in March this year by singers Rahul Sipligunj and Kala Bhairava. The song was presented at the ceremony by Deepika Padukone. On Thursday, PM Modi stated that the state dinner evening was made special by the presence of the people of two countries, as he called them, "most precious assets." The White House had invited more than 400 guests for the dinner at the specially decorated pavilion on the South Lawn of the White House. 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.

RRR hit song Naatu Naatu finds mention in PM Modi's speech at state dinner in US

<p>On Thursday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the US Congress for the second time. His nearly one-hour-long address&nbsp;was attended by many lawmakers and the Indian-American community.</p>

<p>Modi’s speech, which touched upon various key themes, received 15 standing ovations, 79 applauses.</p>

<p>This time, his speech was longer in duration than last time, which was about 45 minutes in 2016.</p>

<p>As soon as he ended his address, many US lawmakers were seen rushing to Modi to interact with him, and also take his autograph, and click selfies.</p>

<p>During this time, chants of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' ('Long live mother India). and 'Vande Mataram' (praise the motherland) reverberated the premises.</p>

<p>Among those who sought Modi’s autograph was Speaker of the US House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy. The Indian PM autographed McCarthy's joint session address booklet.</p>

<p><img alt="Modi thanked McCarthy for allowing him to address the joint session of the US Congress." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5166bee9-0aee-4d30-b534-fcf22dc15c17" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mccarthy.png" /></p>

<h2><strong>Modi thanked McCarthy</strong></h2>

<p>Modi thanked McCarthy for allowing him to address the joint session of the US Congress.</p>

<p>"It was a privilege to welcome Prime Minister @narendramodi to the US Capitol, one of the greatest symbols of democracy in the world. I look forward to increased economic and national security ties between our two great nations," tweeted McCarthy.</p>

<p>Before the State Dinner, McCarthy said he had a great time with him.</p>

<p>"We had a great time with Prime Minister Modi. We have a very strong relationship, PM Modi continues to make that grow and make both nations stronger," McCarthy said.</p>

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<p>US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti, who also attended the event, said the visit of Modi reflects growing India-US ties.</p>

<p>"It has been wonderful, beyond my wildest dreams. It has grown so strong, this is not just the relationship between two men, or two governments, its really two peoples," said Garcetti.</p>

<p>There were some notable moments during the prime minister's speech.</p>

<p>While talking about Americans with Indian roots, he pointed at US Vice President Kamala Harris, saying, "There are many Americans with Indian roots sitting in our midst. There is one behind me, who has made history."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-at-us-congress-momentous-developments-in-another-al-america-and-india-607562">Modi at US Congress: 'Momentous developments' in another Al - America, India</a></p>

<p>The remarks drew applause as well as laughter in the assembly. But the members couldn’t control their laughter when he said, "I am told that the Samosa Caucus is more the flavour of the House."</p>

<h2><strong>What's the 'Samosa Caucus'?</strong></h2>

<p>Subramanian Raja Krishnamoorthi, the representative for Illinois's 8th Congressional district in the United States, popularised the term 'Samosa Caucus' to describe the growing community of Indian-American lawmakers, commonly referred to as "desi."</p>

<p>This caucus includes notable individuals such as Ro Khanna, Pramila Jaipal, Shri Thanedar, and Ami Bera, all of whom belong to the Democratic Party. While the 'Samosa Caucus' is not an official caucus, the shared cultural identity fosters closer ties and facilitates engagement with the US Congress.</p>

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On Thursday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the US Congress for the second time. His nearly one-hour-long address was attended by many lawmakers and the Indian-American community.

On Thursday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the US Congress for the second time. His nearly one-hour-long address was attended by many lawmakers and the Indian-American community. Modi’s speech, which touched upon various key themes, received 15 standing ovations, 79 applauses. This time, his speech was longer in duration than last time, which was about 45 minutes in 2016. As soon as he ended his address, many US lawmakers were seen rushing to Modi to interact with him, and also take his autograph, and click selfies. During this time, chants of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' ('Long live mother India). and 'Vande Mataram' (praise the motherland) reverberated the premises. Among those who sought Modi’s autograph was Speaker of the US House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy. The Indian PM autographed McCarthy's joint session address booklet. Modi thanked McCarthy Modi thanked McCarthy for allowing him to address the joint session of the US Congress. "It was a privilege to welcome Prime Minister @narendramodi to the US Capitol, one of the greatest symbols of democracy in the world. I look forward to increased economic and national security ties between our two great nations," tweeted McCarthy. Before the State Dinner, McCarthy said he had a great time with him. "We had a great time with Prime Minister Modi. We have a very strong relationship, PM Modi continues to make that grow and make both nations stronger," McCarthy said. US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti, who also attended the event, said the visit of Modi reflects growing India-US ties. "It has been wonderful, beyond my wildest dreams. It has grown so strong, this is not just the relationship between two men, or two governments, its really two peoples," said Garcetti. There were some notable moments during the prime minister's speech. While talking about Americans with Indian roots, he pointed at US Vice President Kamala Harris, saying, "There are many Americans with Indian roots sitting in our midst. There is one behind me, who has made history." Also read | Modi at US Congress: 'Momentous developments' in another Al - America, India The remarks drew applause as well as laughter in the assembly. But the members couldn’t control their laughter when he said, "I am told that the Samosa Caucus is more the flavour of the House." What's the 'Samosa Caucus'? Subramanian Raja Krishnamoorthi, the representative for Illinois's 8th Congressional district in the United States, popularised the term 'Samosa Caucus' to describe the growing community of Indian-American lawmakers, commonly referred to as "desi." This caucus includes notable individuals such as Ro Khanna, Pramila Jaipal, Shri Thanedar, and Ami Bera, all of whom belong to the Democratic Party. While the 'Samosa Caucus' is not an official caucus, the shared cultural identity fosters closer ties and facilitates engagement with the US Congress. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US lawmakers take PM Modi's autographs, click selfies with him after joint address to Congress

<p>The Bidens hosted India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the state dinner in the White House on June 22, in which a roaring democracy-based bilateral convergence of India and the United States was heard in an elite gathering consisting of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani and his wife&nbsp;Nita, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, Adobe’s CEO Shantanu Narayen and close to 100 well-known public figures.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You have&nbsp;gathered a group of exceptional people tonight," Modi said while hailing the vital role played by the Indian-Americans in the United States.</p>

<p>"The Indian-Americans have come a long way here," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-at-us-congress-momentous-developments-in-another-al-america-and-india-607562">PM Modi at US Congress: 'Momentous developments' in another Al - America and India</a></strong></p>

<p>In a moment of display of bonhomie between Biden and Modi, the latter hailed the US president as a soft-spoken individual who is 'very strong' and has the same commitment as he had a decade ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In what emerged as a reminder to South Korean president Yoon Suk-Yeol singing 'American Pie' at White House a month ago, Modi said: "I have seen your hospitality inspired your guests to sing. I wish I could sing then I would have sung for you all."</p>

<h2><strong>'Where the mind is without fear': Joe Biden invokes Rabindranath Tagore</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden, while describing the state dinner as a 'fitting way to celebrate a great bond of friendship between India and the United States', invoked Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's. The US president said that Tagore's work "inspired great American thought".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In 1792, the first US president George Washington established the first consulate in Calcutta at the edge of Bay of Bengal. It has more Nobel laureates than any other Indian city, including Rabindranath Tagore who composed the national anthems of two nations, and influenced the great American thought," Biden said, while referring to Tagore's great literary contribution in the modern democratic frameworks of Indian subcontinent, having composed the national anthems of India and Bangladesh.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi in US | Joe Biden: Our economic partnership is booming</strong></p>

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<p>Biden then quoted Tagore's 'Where the mind is without fear' poem from the poet's Nobel Prize-winning work <em>Gitanjali</em>, often held as a work of literary heritage that puts the idea of democracy at the&nbsp;centre-stage with focus on achieving the potential of a nation by realising the potential of an individual.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India and the United States hear the cry and the call of destiny to take our nations and world forward to a future worthy of our dreams. A future towards greater prosperity, opportunity, liberty, equality and the good of the world — where every person can grasp its fullest potential so that we as nations can achieve our highest purpose," Biden said.&nbsp;</p>

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The Bidens hosted India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the state dinner in the White House on June 22, in which a roaring democracy-based bilateral convergence of India and the United States was heard in an elite gathering consisting of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani and his wife Nita, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, Adobe’s CEO Shantanu Narayen and close to 100 well-known public figures.

The Bidens hosted India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the state dinner in the White House on June 22, in which a roaring democracy-based bilateral convergence of India and the United States was heard in an elite gathering consisting of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani and his wife Nita, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, Adobe’s CEO Shantanu Narayen and close to 100 well-known public figures. "You have gathered a group of exceptional people tonight," Modi said while hailing the vital role played by the Indian-Americans in the United States. "The Indian-Americans have come a long way here," he said. Also read | PM Modi at US Congress: 'Momentous developments' in another Al - America and India In a moment of display of bonhomie between Biden and Modi, the latter hailed the US president as a soft-spoken individual who is 'very strong' and has the same commitment as he had a decade ago. In what emerged as a reminder to South Korean president Yoon Suk-Yeol singing 'American Pie' at White House a month ago, Modi said: "I have seen your hospitality inspired your guests to sing. I wish I could sing then I would have sung for you all." 'Where the mind is without fear': Joe Biden invokes Rabindranath Tagore US President Joe Biden, while describing the state dinner as a 'fitting way to celebrate a great bond of friendship between India and the United States', invoked Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's. The US president said that Tagore's work "inspired great American thought". "In 1792, the first US president George Washington established the first consulate in Calcutta at the edge of Bay of Bengal. It has more Nobel laureates than any other Indian city, including Rabindranath Tagore who composed the national anthems of two nations, and influenced the great American thought," Biden said, while referring to Tagore's great literary contribution in the modern democratic frameworks of Indian subcontinent, having composed the national anthems of India and Bangladesh. Also watch | PM Modi in US | Joe Biden: Our economic partnership is booming × Biden then quoted Tagore's 'Where the mind is without fear' poem from the poet's Nobel Prize-winning work Gitanjali, often held as a work of literary heritage that puts the idea of democracy at the centre-stage with focus on achieving the potential of a nation by realising the potential of an individual. "India and the United States hear the cry and the call of destiny to take our nations and world forward to a future worthy of our dreams. A future towards greater prosperity, opportunity, liberty, equality and the good of the world — where every person can grasp its fullest potential so that we as nations can achieve our highest purpose," Biden said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Where the mind is without fear': Biden invokes Tagore in state dinner for Modi

<p>Last year, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to&nbsp;one of his key allies,&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin, that 'it's not an era of war' while reflecting on the war in Ukraine. He reiterated the same while addressing a joint meeting of the US Congress on Thursday (June 22).&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi spoke about a range of issues, but one of the key takeaways was the mention of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year in February,&nbsp;leading to massive food and fuel crisis globally. &nbsp;</p>

<p>During his address, PM Modi said, "Our knowledge partnership will serve humanity and seek solutions to the global challenges of climate change, hunger and health."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The last few years have seen deeply disruptive developments. With the Ukraine conflict, war has returned to Europe. It is causing great pain in the region," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-at-us-congress-momentous-developments-in-another-al-america-and-india-607562">PM Modi at US Congress: 'Momentous developments' in another Al - America and India</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The Indian prime minister also said that "since it involves major powers, the consequences are severe. Countries of the Global South have been particularly affected".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He mentioned in his speech that the global order is based on respect for the principles of the UN Charter, peaceful resolution of disputes, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As I have said directly and publicly, this is not an era of war. But, it is one of dialogue and diplomacy," he said, further adding that "we all must do what we can to stop the bloodshed and human suffering".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Modi and Biden back Ukraine's 'territorial integrity'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>US President Joe Biden and Modi jointly backed Ukraine's "territorial integrity" as they voiced alarm over the conflict, on which India has taken a neutral stand and New Delhi has refused to join Western sanctions on Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a joint statement as Modi paid a state visit to Washington, the two leaders "called for respect for international law, principles of the UN charter and territorial integrity and sovereignty."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/democracy-is-in-indias-dna-no-space-for-discrimination-says-pm-modi-on-minority-rights-607527">'Democracy is in India's DNA, no space for discrimination', says PM Modi on minority rights</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Amid the Ukraine war, the Biden administration has largely given a pass to India for refusing to join Western sanctions on Russia and instead buying its oil at a discount.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts have said that Washington sees New&nbsp;Delhi as a broader alignment when it comes to the challenge of China and the threat of radical Islamism.&nbsp;</p>

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Last year, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to one of his key allies, Russian President Vladimir Putin, that 'it's not an era of war' while reflecting on the war in Ukraine.

Last year, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said to one of his key allies, Russian President Vladimir Putin, that 'it's not an era of war' while reflecting on the war in Ukraine. He reiterated the same while addressing a joint meeting of the US Congress on Thursday (June 22). PM Modi spoke about a range of issues, but one of the key takeaways was the mention of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which started last year in February, leading to massive food and fuel crisis globally. During his address, PM Modi said, "Our knowledge partnership will serve humanity and seek solutions to the global challenges of climate change, hunger and health." "The last few years have seen deeply disruptive developments. With the Ukraine conflict, war has returned to Europe. It is causing great pain in the region," he added. Also read: PM Modi at US Congress: 'Momentous developments' in another Al - America and India The Indian prime minister also said that "since it involves major powers, the consequences are severe. Countries of the Global South have been particularly affected". He mentioned in his speech that the global order is based on respect for the principles of the UN Charter, peaceful resolution of disputes, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. "As I have said directly and publicly, this is not an era of war. But, it is one of dialogue and diplomacy," he said, further adding that "we all must do what we can to stop the bloodshed and human suffering". Watch this report: × Modi and Biden back Ukraine's 'territorial integrity' US President Joe Biden and Modi jointly backed Ukraine's "territorial integrity" as they voiced alarm over the conflict, on which India has taken a neutral stand and New Delhi has refused to join Western sanctions on Russia. In a joint statement as Modi paid a state visit to Washington, the two leaders "called for respect for international law, principles of the UN charter and territorial integrity and sovereignty." Also read: 'Democracy is in India's DNA, no space for discrimination', says PM Modi on minority rights Amid the Ukraine war, the Biden administration has largely given a pass to India for refusing to join Western sanctions on Russia and instead buying its oil at a discount. Experts have said that Washington sees New Delhi as a broader alignment when it comes to the challenge of China and the threat of radical Islamism. 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 again says ‘this is not an era of war’, urges for end to ‘bloodshed, human suffering’

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a state visit to the United States, was questioned in a presser about free speech and religious freedom in India. The US reporter also asked the prime minister about discrimination against minority communities&nbsp; and the measures his government was taking to improve the rights of minorities in the country.</p>

<p>Replying to a reporter’s question at a joint press conference with US President Joe Biden, PM Modi strongly defended India’s record on democracy, his government’s performance and human rights.<br />
<br />
PM Modi dismissed concerns that minority communities were being discriminated against in India. Modi said no Indian citizen is discriminated against on the basis of caste, creed, religion, or gender.<br />
<br />
"We are a democracy...India &amp; America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit &amp; we live it and it's written in our Constitution...So no question of discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed or religion arises. That is why, India believes in sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayaas and walks ahead with it..,"<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "We are a democracy...India &amp; America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit &amp; we live it and it's written in our Constitution...So no question of discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed or religion arises. That is why, India believes in sabka… <a href="https://t.co/orVkCVkLLf">pic.twitter.com/orVkCVkLLf</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1671944920893124609?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><br />
Further denying any discrimination against minority communities, he said, "Regardless of caste, creed, religion, gender, there's absolutely no space for discrimination. That is why, India believes in ‘Sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayaas’ and walks ahead with it."<br />
<br />
The PM emphasised that India's Constitution serves as the bedrock upon which the nation operates and ensures that every citizen is treated with equality and dignity.<br />
<br />
“Our Constitution and our government have always proved that democracy can deliver. And when I say deliver, it is regardless of caste, creed, religion, and gender. There’s absolutely no space for discrimination,” Modi said.<br />
<br />
Our government remains resolute in its commitment to upholding the principles of equality and justice, he added.<br />
<br />
“In India, the benefits that are provided by the government are accessible to all, whoever deserves them, they are available to everyone without any discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, age, or geographic location,” Modi said.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Obama says India risks 'pulling apart' without minority rights</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, former US president Barack Obama, raised concerns about India as he said that New Delhi risks "pulling apart" if the Muslim minority is not respected. He also called for the matter to be raised with PM Narendra Modi, who is currently on a US visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Obama, who is&nbsp;on a visit to Greece where he is holding a weeklong session for emerging global leaders, said that addressing human rights with allies was always "complicated".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think it is true that if the president meets with Prime Minister Modi, then the protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India, that's something worth mentioning," the first African-American president said in an interview with CNN International anchor Christiane Amanpour.</p>

<p>"If I had a conversation with Prime Minister Modi, who I know well, part of my argument would be that if you do not protect the rights of ethnic minorities in India, there is a strong possibility at some point that India starts pulling apart," Obama said.</p>

<p>"We've seen what happens when you start getting those kinds of large internal conflicts. So that would be contrary to the interests not just of Muslim India but also of Hindu India," he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>]</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a state visit to the United States, was questioned in a presser about free speech and religious freedom in India.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a state visit to the United States, was questioned in a presser about free speech and religious freedom in India. The US reporter also asked the prime minister about discrimination against minority communities and the measures his government was taking to improve the rights of minorities in the country. Replying to a reporter’s question at a joint press conference with US President Joe Biden, PM Modi strongly defended India’s record on democracy, his government’s performance and human rights. PM Modi dismissed concerns that minority communities were being discriminated against in India. Modi said no Indian citizen is discriminated against on the basis of caste, creed, religion, or gender. "We are a democracy...India & America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit & we live it and it's written in our Constitution...So no question of discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed or religion arises. That is why, India believes in sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayaas and walks ahead with it..," #WATCH | "We are a democracy...India & America both have democracy in our DNA. Democracy is in our spirit & we live it and it's written in our Constitution...So no question of discrimination on the grounds of caste, creed or religion arises. That is why, India believes in sabka… pic.twitter.com/orVkCVkLLf — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2023 × Further denying any discrimination against minority communities, he said, "Regardless of caste, creed, religion, gender, there's absolutely no space for discrimination. That is why, India believes in ‘Sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayaas’ and walks ahead with it." The PM emphasised that India's Constitution serves as the bedrock upon which the nation operates and ensures that every citizen is treated with equality and dignity. “Our Constitution and our government have always proved that democracy can deliver. And when I say deliver, it is regardless of caste, creed, religion, and gender. There’s absolutely no space for discrimination,” Modi said. Our government remains resolute in its commitment to upholding the principles of equality and justice, he added. “In India, the benefits that are provided by the government are accessible to all, whoever deserves them, they are available to everyone without any discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, age, or geographic location,” Modi said. Obama says India risks 'pulling apart' without minority rights Earlier in the day, former US president Barack Obama, raised concerns about India as he said that New Delhi risks "pulling apart" if the Muslim minority is not respected. He also called for the matter to be raised with PM Narendra Modi, who is currently on a US visit. Obama, who is on a visit to Greece where he is holding a weeklong session for emerging global leaders, said that addressing human rights with allies was always "complicated". "I think it is true that if the president meets with Prime Minister Modi, then the protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India, that's something worth mentioning," the first African-American president said in an interview with CNN International anchor Christiane Amanpour. "If I had a conversation with Prime Minister Modi, who I know well, part of my argument would be that if you do not protect the rights of ethnic minorities in India, there is a strong possibility at some point that India starts pulling apart," Obama said. "We've seen what happens when you start getting those kinds of large internal conflicts. So that would be contrary to the interests not just of Muslim India but also of Hindu India," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ]

‘Democracy is in India’s DNA, no space for discrimination,’ says PM Modi on minority rights

<p>US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday marked a new chapter in the bilateral relationship between their countries. With the White House extending a warm welcome to Modi, both leaders emphasised the significance of their partnership, highlighting defence and commerce agreements aimed at countering China's growing global influence.</p>

<p>Later, the Indian PM addressed a joint session of the US Congress where he flaunted India’s democratic credentials and pitched for stronger political and economic ties between the two nations driven by shared values.</p>

<h2><strong>India-US economic ties ‘booming’&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>President Biden underscored the historical strength of the US-India relationship, emphasising that it is now stronger, closer, and more dynamic than ever before.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at a joint press conference with Modi, Biden lauded the booming economic ties, citing a significant increase in trade between the two countries over the past decade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While India has always cherished its independence and maintained a non-formal alliance status, Washington seeks to position Delhi as a strategic counterweight to China. Both leaders refrained from directly criticising Beijing, yet their remarks indicated the target of their intended assault was none other than China.</p>

<h2><strong>Shared concerns over challenges in Indo-Pacific</strong></h2>

<p>During their private discussions, President Biden and Prime Minister Modi highlighted the escalating tensions and destabilising actions in the East and South China Sea. They emphasised the importance of upholding international law and freedom of navigation in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi, in his address to Congress, referred to the Indo-Pacific region as facing "dark clouds of coercion and confrontation," stressing the need for stability—a concern shared by the US president. Through their joint statement, both leaders aimed to address these challenges and seize the opportunities presented by working together in the 21st century.</p>

<h2><strong>What new deals were signed by the two leaders?</strong></h2>

<p>The United States and India announced several agreements in key sectors such as semiconductors, critical minerals, technology, space cooperation, and defence. These deals serve multiple purposes, including diversifying supply chains to reduce dependence on China and gaining an advantage in advanced technologies that could play a crucial role in future conflicts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi delivers address to joint sitting of Congress</strong></p>

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<p>Additionally, efforts were made in the direction of resolving long-standing disputes at the World Trade Organization. One such effort resulted in India reducing tariffs on certain US goods. Notably, India's agreement to purchase armed MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones from the US and the inclusion of Micron Technology's $2.7 billion semiconductor testing and packaging unit in Gujarat underscored the depth of their cooperation.</p>

<h2><strong>Tough stance on terrorism</strong></h2>

<p>Joe Biden and Narendra Modi came down heavily on Pakistan in a joint statement, directing the Islamic nation to crack down on terrorists targeting New Delhi. The two leaders called for action against terror groups based in Pakistan such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad.</p>

<p>"They strongly condemned cross-border terrorism, the use of terrorist proxies and called on Pakistan to take immediate action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for launching terrorist attacks," the statement said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-in-us-modi-modi-chants-inside-the-us-house-of-congress-607577"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi in US: Modi-Modi chants inside the US house of Congress</strong></a></p>

<p>While delivering his hour-long speech to the US Congressmen, the Indian leader said, “Terrorism is an enemy of humanity and there can be no ifs and buts in dealing with it. We must overcome all such forces sponsoring and exporting terror.”</p>

<h2><strong>‘Not an era of war’</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi during his speech at the US Congress reiterated his stance that today is not an era of war, and the war in Ukraine is having severe consequences for the world since major powers are involved. "The last few years have seen deeply disruptive developments. With the Ukraine conflict, war has returned to Europe," the prime minister said, referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>"As I have said, this is not an era of war. It is of dialogue and diplomacy," he added.</p>

<h2>Liberal lawmakers boycot&nbsp;speech</h2>

<p>Modi's visit to the United States was not without controversy, as some liberal lawmakers boycotted his speech to Congress, citing concerns over the treatment of India's Muslim minority. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tweeted her invitation for colleagues who support pluralism, tolerance, and freedom of the press to join her in the boycott. However, Modi dismissed criticisms regarding India's human rights record, stating that there is no room for discrimination in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The PM said, “Indeed, India is a democracy and as President Biden also mentioned, India and America, (for) both countries, democracy is in our DNA. Democracy is our spirit. Democracy runs in our veins. We live democracy. And our ancestors have actually put words to this concept, and that is in the form of our Constitution. Our government has taken the basic principles of democracy. And on that basis, our Constitution is made and the entire country runs on that…We have always proved that democracy can deliver. And when I say deliver, this is regardless of caste, creed, religion, gender, there’s absolutely no space for discrimination.”</p>

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US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday marked a new chapter in the bilateral relationship between their countries. With the White House extending a warm welcome to Modi, both leaders emphasised the significance of their partnership, highlighting defence and commerce agreements aimed at countering China's growing global influence.

US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday marked a new chapter in the bilateral relationship between their countries. With the White House extending a warm welcome to Modi, both leaders emphasised the significance of their partnership, highlighting defence and commerce agreements aimed at countering China's growing global influence. Later, the Indian PM addressed a joint session of the US Congress where he flaunted India’s democratic credentials and pitched for stronger political and economic ties between the two nations driven by shared values. India-US economic ties ‘booming’ President Biden underscored the historical strength of the US-India relationship, emphasising that it is now stronger, closer, and more dynamic than ever before. Speaking at a joint press conference with Modi, Biden lauded the booming economic ties, citing a significant increase in trade between the two countries over the past decade. While India has always cherished its independence and maintained a non-formal alliance status, Washington seeks to position Delhi as a strategic counterweight to China. Both leaders refrained from directly criticising Beijing, yet their remarks indicated the target of their intended assault was none other than China. Shared concerns over challenges in Indo-Pacific During their private discussions, President Biden and Prime Minister Modi highlighted the escalating tensions and destabilising actions in the East and South China Sea. They emphasised the importance of upholding international law and freedom of navigation in the region. Modi, in his address to Congress, referred to the Indo-Pacific region as facing "dark clouds of coercion and confrontation," stressing the need for stability—a concern shared by the US president. Through their joint statement, both leaders aimed to address these challenges and seize the opportunities presented by working together in the 21st century. What new deals were signed by the two leaders? The United States and India announced several agreements in key sectors such as semiconductors, critical minerals, technology, space cooperation, and defence. These deals serve multiple purposes, including diversifying supply chains to reduce dependence on China and gaining an advantage in advanced technologies that could play a crucial role in future conflicts. Watch: PM Modi delivers address to joint sitting of Congress × Additionally, efforts were made in the direction of resolving long-standing disputes at the World Trade Organization. One such effort resulted in India reducing tariffs on certain US goods. Notably, India's agreement to purchase armed MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones from the US and the inclusion of Micron Technology's $2.7 billion semiconductor testing and packaging unit in Gujarat underscored the depth of their cooperation. Tough stance on terrorism Joe Biden and Narendra Modi came down heavily on Pakistan in a joint statement, directing the Islamic nation to crack down on terrorists targeting New Delhi. The two leaders called for action against terror groups based in Pakistan such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad. "They strongly condemned cross-border terrorism, the use of terrorist proxies and called on Pakistan to take immediate action to ensure that no territory under its control is used for launching terrorist attacks," the statement said. Also read: PM Modi in US: Modi-Modi chants inside the US house of Congress While delivering his hour-long speech to the US Congressmen, the Indian leader said, “Terrorism is an enemy of humanity and there can be no ifs and buts in dealing with it. We must overcome all such forces sponsoring and exporting terror.” ‘Not an era of war’ Prime Minister Modi during his speech at the US Congress reiterated his stance that today is not an era of war, and the war in Ukraine is having severe consequences for the world since major powers are involved. "The last few years have seen deeply disruptive developments. With the Ukraine conflict, war has returned to Europe," the prime minister said, referring to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. "As I have said, this is not an era of war. It is of dialogue and diplomacy," he added. Liberal lawmakers boycot speech Modi's visit to the United States was not without controversy, as some liberal lawmakers boycotted his speech to Congress, citing concerns over the treatment of India's Muslim minority. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tweeted her invitation for colleagues who support pluralism, tolerance, and freedom of the press to join her in the boycott. However, Modi dismissed criticisms regarding India's human rights record, stating that there is no room for discrimination in the country. The PM said, “Indeed, India is a democracy and as President Biden also mentioned, India and America, (for) both countries, democracy is in our DNA. Democracy is our spirit. Democracy runs in our veins. We live democracy. And our ancestors have actually put words to this concept, and that is in the form of our Constitution. Our government has taken the basic principles of democracy. And on that basis, our Constitution is made and the entire country runs on that…We have always proved that democracy can deliver. And when I say deliver, this is regardless of caste, creed, religion, gender, there’s absolutely no space for discrimination.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Explained | From tech, trade to terror, how Modi-Biden meet advances Indo-US ties

<p>An Indian astronaut will be sent to the International Space Station in 2024 as part of India-US collaboration in space science field, US President Joe Biden said on Thursday in the White House after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during latter's state visit to the United States.</p>

<p>Addressing the media after bilateral talks with Modi, Biden said that New Delhi and Washington were collaborating in nearly every human endeavour in delivering progress across a number of fields.</p>

<p>"From designing new ways to diagnosing and treating new illnesses like cancer and diabetes to collaboration on human space flight, including on sending an Indian astronaut to the international space station in 2024," Biden said while standing besides Modi.</p>

<h2><strong>India to sign Artemis Accords: Modi</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi also said that India has decided to sign the Artemis Accords,&nbsp;a non-binding multilateral arrangement between the US and other governments designed to guide civil space exploration and sustainable use and&nbsp;towards&nbsp;a US-led effort to return humans to the Moon by 2025.&nbsp;Artemis programme is NASA's initiative to return humans to the Moon, in which it aims to land the first woman and the first person of colour on the Earth's natural satellite.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-the-mind-is-without-fear-biden-invokes-tagore-in-state-dinner-for-modi-607649">'Where the mind is without fear': Biden invokes Tagore in State Dinner for Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>Artemis Accords also specify 'the ultimate goal' of expanding space exploration to Mars and beyond. By signing the accords, India will become a participant in the US-led space&nbsp; programmes specified within the Artemis framework.</p>

<p>"We have decided to join the Artemis Accords. We have taken a giant leap in our space cooperation. In short, I would say even the sky is not the limit for cooperation with the US," Modi said.<br />
<br />
<strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian PM's address reverberates in the hall of US Congress, sparks enthusiastic 'Modi Modi' chants</strong></p>

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<p>India is already planning to send its maiden human space flight – Gaganyaan – into a low earth orbit by the end of 2024 or early 2025.</p>

<h2><strong>So will an Indian astronaut will be in the ISS before Gaganyaan?</strong></h2>

<p>If an Indian astronaut travels to the international space station, it could be before the Gaganyaan project.</p>

<p>Prior to this, a senior White House official was cited as saying by the Press Trust of India&nbsp;that NASA and ISRO were developing a strategic framework for human spaceflight cooperation this year.</p>

<h2><strong>India-US cooperation: On semiconductors and mineral security</strong></h2>

<p>On semiconductors, US companies are partnering with India to build a semiconductor ecosystem that promotes supply chain diversification away from China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Micron Technology with support from the Indian National Semiconductor Mission announced an investment of more than $800 million which along with additional financial support from Indian authorities will amount to a $2.75 billion semiconductor assembly and test facility in India.</p>

<p>Apart from that, Micron is likely to&nbsp;announce a training programme for 60,000 Indian engineers through its semi-verse solution.</p>

<p>On critical minerals and mineral security, the United States will announce its support for India becoming a member of the Mineral Security Partnership which is led by the US State Department to strengthen critical minerals supply chain, reported&nbsp;PTI.</p>

<p>In advanced telecommunications, the two countries are reportedly working together on 5G and 6G technologies, including Open Radio Access Network (RAN) systems.</p>

<p>"Here we’ll be announcing partnerships on open ran, field trials and rollouts, including scale deployments in both countries with operators and vendors of both markets. This will involve backing from the US International Development Finance, for cooperation and to promote the deployments in India,"&nbsp;the White House official said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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An Indian astronaut will be sent to the International Space Station in 2024 as part of India-US collaboration in space science field, US President Joe Biden said on Thursday in the White House after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during latter's state visit to the United States.

An Indian astronaut will be sent to the International Space Station in 2024 as part of India-US collaboration in space science field, US President Joe Biden said on Thursday in the White House after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during latter's state visit to the United States. Addressing the media after bilateral talks with Modi, Biden said that New Delhi and Washington were collaborating in nearly every human endeavour in delivering progress across a number of fields. "From designing new ways to diagnosing and treating new illnesses like cancer and diabetes to collaboration on human space flight, including on sending an Indian astronaut to the international space station in 2024," Biden said while standing besides Modi. India to sign Artemis Accords: Modi PM Modi also said that India has decided to sign the Artemis Accords, a non-binding multilateral arrangement between the US and other governments designed to guide civil space exploration and sustainable use and towards a US-led effort to return humans to the Moon by 2025. Artemis programme is NASA's initiative to return humans to the Moon, in which it aims to land the first woman and the first person of colour on the Earth's natural satellite. Also read | 'Where the mind is without fear': Biden invokes Tagore in State Dinner for Modi Artemis Accords also specify 'the ultimate goal' of expanding space exploration to Mars and beyond. By signing the accords, India will become a participant in the US-led space programmes specified within the Artemis framework. "We have decided to join the Artemis Accords. We have taken a giant leap in our space cooperation. In short, I would say even the sky is not the limit for cooperation with the US," Modi said. Also watch | Indian PM's address reverberates in the hall of US Congress, sparks enthusiastic 'Modi Modi' chants × India is already planning to send its maiden human space flight – Gaganyaan – into a low earth orbit by the end of 2024 or early 2025. So will an Indian astronaut will be in the ISS before Gaganyaan? If an Indian astronaut travels to the international space station, it could be before the Gaganyaan project. Prior to this, a senior White House official was cited as saying by the Press Trust of India that NASA and ISRO were developing a strategic framework for human spaceflight cooperation this year. India-US cooperation: On semiconductors and mineral security On semiconductors, US companies are partnering with India to build a semiconductor ecosystem that promotes supply chain diversification away from China. Earlier, Micron Technology with support from the Indian National Semiconductor Mission announced an investment of more than $800 million which along with additional financial support from Indian authorities will amount to a $2.75 billion semiconductor assembly and test facility in India. Apart from that, Micron is likely to announce a training programme for 60,000 Indian engineers through its semi-verse solution. On critical minerals and mineral security, the United States will announce its support for India becoming a member of the Mineral Security Partnership which is led by the US State Department to strengthen critical minerals supply chain, reported PTI. In advanced telecommunications, the two countries are reportedly working together on 5G and 6G technologies, including Open Radio Access Network (RAN) systems. "Here we’ll be announcing partnerships on open ran, field trials and rollouts, including scale deployments in both countries with operators and vendors of both markets. This will involve backing from the US International Development Finance, for cooperation and to promote the deployments in India," the White House official said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India, US hail ‘giant leap’ in cooperation on space science, chip development and mineral security

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome at the White House on Thursday (June 22), with a 19-gun salute and the national anthem of both nations being played.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi is currently on a State visit to the United States. He has been to the US five times since taking oath as the prime minister in 2014, but this trip is his first with the full diplomatic status of a state visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi and Biden hailed a "defining partnership" with a focus on both nations to improve and deepen relations with forward-focused future-oriented talks. They sealed major deals in various sectors, including defence, technology, space collaboration, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ge-aerospace-signs-mou-with-hal-for-production-of-fighter-jet-engines-for-iaf-607330">'Historic agreement': GE Aerospace signs MoU with HAL for production of fighter jet engines for IAF</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As he began his address, PM Modi thanked Biden and the First Lady Jill Biden. He said, "I would like to express gratitude for your warm welcome and far-sighted remarks."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also mentioned the gathering of Indian-American people outside the White House, who&nbsp;chanted&nbsp;'Modi, Modi'. He said, "Three decades ago, I came to America as a normal citizen and saw the White House from the outside. Since then I came here so many times, but the White House's gates have been&nbsp;opened for so many Indian Americans for the first time."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>PM Modi was greeted by around 7,000 Indian Americans when he arrived on the South Lawn of the White House, wearing a flowing white kurta with a sky-blue jacket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When PM Modi reached the White House, the US delegation, led by Vice President Kamala Harris, was there. The Indian delegation was led by Indian foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, FS Vinay Kwatra and Indian ambassador to the US Taranjit Sandhu.</p>

<p>While welcoming PM Modi, Biden said, "I have long believed that the relationship between the US and India will be one of the most defining relationships of the 21st century. The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the United States work and lead together."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-pm-modi-sets-techade-agenda-for-2020s-607153">India's PM Modi sets 'techade' agenda for making 2020s a transformative era in technology sector</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Crucial deals inked</strong></h2>

<p>GE Aerospace announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to produce its F414 engines for the Indian Air Force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As mentioned in the report, a US official said India would also buy MQ-9B SeaGuardians, high-precision armed drones. India in 2019 broke precedent with an airstrike in Pakistani territory against an alleged extremist camp.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Washington hopes a tighter defence relationship will help wean India off Russia, New Delhi's primary military supplier during the Cold War.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome at the White House on Thursday (June 22), with a 19-gun salute and the national anthem of both nations being played.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome at the White House on Thursday (June 22), with a 19-gun salute and the national anthem of both nations being played. PM Modi is currently on a State visit to the United States. He has been to the US five times since taking oath as the prime minister in 2014, but this trip is his first with the full diplomatic status of a state visit. PM Modi and Biden hailed a "defining partnership" with a focus on both nations to improve and deepen relations with forward-focused future-oriented talks. They sealed major deals in various sectors, including defence, technology, space collaboration, and more. Also read: 'Historic agreement': GE Aerospace signs MoU with HAL for production of fighter jet engines for IAF As he began his address, PM Modi thanked Biden and the First Lady Jill Biden. He said, "I would like to express gratitude for your warm welcome and far-sighted remarks." He also mentioned the gathering of Indian-American people outside the White House, who chanted 'Modi, Modi'. He said, "Three decades ago, I came to America as a normal citizen and saw the White House from the outside. Since then I came here so many times, but the White House's gates have been opened for so many Indian Americans for the first time." Watch this report: × PM Modi was greeted by around 7,000 Indian Americans when he arrived on the South Lawn of the White House, wearing a flowing white kurta with a sky-blue jacket. When PM Modi reached the White House, the US delegation, led by Vice President Kamala Harris, was there. The Indian delegation was led by Indian foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, FS Vinay Kwatra and Indian ambassador to the US Taranjit Sandhu. While welcoming PM Modi, Biden said, "I have long believed that the relationship between the US and India will be one of the most defining relationships of the 21st century. The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the United States work and lead together." Also read: India's PM Modi sets 'techade' agenda for making 2020s a transformative era in technology sector Crucial deals inked GE Aerospace announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to produce its F414 engines for the Indian Air Force. As mentioned in the report, a US official said India would also buy MQ-9B SeaGuardians, high-precision armed drones. India in 2019 broke precedent with an airstrike in Pakistani territory against an alleged extremist camp. Washington hopes a tighter defence relationship will help wean India off Russia, New Delhi's primary military supplier during the Cold War. 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-US ties: PM Modi and Biden hail 'most defining relationship of 21st century'

<p>In a bid to bolster semiconductor manufacturing in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended invitations to two major American chip makers, Micron Technology and Applied Materials. Earlier,&nbsp;PM Modi had pitched his vision to transform the upcoming years of 2020s into a "tech decade", coining the term "Techade" to encapsulate the idea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am confident that India's dream of techade will be fulfilled by its innovators and their patents," Modi said.</p>

<h2><strong>Micron Tech for&nbsp;boost to Indian semiconductor industry</strong></h2>

<p>As per a statement by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, "The prime minister invited Micron Technology to boost semiconductor manufacturing in India."</p>

<p>Sanjay Mehrotra, the CEO of Micron Technology, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vegetarian-menu-peacock-ey-theme-and-more-all-the-ways-biden-dinner-honours-modi-and-india-607137">Vegetarian menu, peacock theme and more: All the ways Bidens' dinner honours PM Modi and India</a></strong></p>

<p>"We look forward to greater opportunities in India. Micron is a global leader in memory and storage, and we are a supplier for memory and storage in all end markets from data centres, to smartphones to PCs, and today really fuelling the AI engine as well," said Mehrotra, as quoted by PTI.</p>

<h2><strong>Collaboration with Applied Materials</strong></h2>

<p>During a meeting with Gary E. Dickerson, the President and CEO of Applied Materials, Prime Minister Modi reportedly discussed the potential for the company to partner with academic institutions in India to cultivate a skilled workforce in the field of semiconductor manufacturing.</p>

<p>Following their meeting with the Prime Minister, Gary E. Dickerson expressed a strong desire to work alongside Modi and the people of India.</p>

<p>"We are very very much looking forward to working together with the prime minister and everyone of India to achieve tremendous success together."</p>

<h2><strong>General Electric and the Indian aviation sector</strong></h2>

<p>During his meeting with H. Lawrence Culp, the CEO of General Electric (GE), Modi extended an invitation for the company to play a greater role in India's aviation and renewable energy sectors.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-obama-trump-biden-and-more-narendra-modi-in-us-over-the-years-606408">Explained: Modi in USA: How Indian PM's past trips&nbsp;unfolded</a></strong></p>

<p>"Prime minister appreciated GE for its long-term commitment to manufacturing in India. The prime minister and Mr Culp Jr discussed GE's greater technology collaboration to promote manufacturing in India," said the Ministry of External Affairs statement.</p>

<h2><strong>India's semiconductor sector</strong></h2>

<p>As per PTI, India has been actively promoting semiconductor development and has introduced a production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country is gearing to position itself as an appealing investment destination for global semiconductor companies, and one of the most attractive locations in Asia for electronics and semiconductors.</p>

<p>In 2021, the Indian semiconductor market was valued at USD 27.2 billion, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 19 per cent. However, the country does not currently manufacture any chips domestically.</p>

<p>Establishing semiconductor units, also known as fabs, is a highly specialized, complex, and expensive endeavour. These fabs require advanced technology, involve inherent risks, and demand long gestation and payback periods.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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In a bid to bolster semiconductor manufacturing in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended invitations to two major American chip makers, Micron Technology and Applied Materials.

In a bid to bolster semiconductor manufacturing in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended invitations to two major American chip makers, Micron Technology and Applied Materials. Earlier, PM Modi had pitched his vision to transform the upcoming years of 2020s into a "tech decade", coining the term "Techade" to encapsulate the idea. "I am confident that India's dream of techade will be fulfilled by its innovators and their patents," Modi said. Micron Tech for boost to Indian semiconductor industry As per a statement by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, "The prime minister invited Micron Technology to boost semiconductor manufacturing in India." Sanjay Mehrotra, the CEO of Micron Technology, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunities that lie ahead in India. Also read | Vegetarian menu, peacock theme and more: All the ways Bidens' dinner honours PM Modi and India "We look forward to greater opportunities in India. Micron is a global leader in memory and storage, and we are a supplier for memory and storage in all end markets from data centres, to smartphones to PCs, and today really fuelling the AI engine as well," said Mehrotra, as quoted by PTI. Collaboration with Applied Materials During a meeting with Gary E. Dickerson, the President and CEO of Applied Materials, Prime Minister Modi reportedly discussed the potential for the company to partner with academic institutions in India to cultivate a skilled workforce in the field of semiconductor manufacturing. Following their meeting with the Prime Minister, Gary E. Dickerson expressed a strong desire to work alongside Modi and the people of India. "We are very very much looking forward to working together with the prime minister and everyone of India to achieve tremendous success together." General Electric and the Indian aviation sector During his meeting with H. Lawrence Culp, the CEO of General Electric (GE), Modi extended an invitation for the company to play a greater role in India's aviation and renewable energy sectors. Also read | Explained: Modi in USA: How Indian PM's past trips unfolded "Prime minister appreciated GE for its long-term commitment to manufacturing in India. The prime minister and Mr Culp Jr discussed GE's greater technology collaboration to promote manufacturing in India," said the Ministry of External Affairs statement. India's semiconductor sector As per PTI, India has been actively promoting semiconductor development and has introduced a production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for that. The country is gearing to position itself as an appealing investment destination for global semiconductor companies, and one of the most attractive locations in Asia for electronics and semiconductors. In 2021, the Indian semiconductor market was valued at USD 27.2 billion, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 19 per cent. However, the country does not currently manufacture any chips domestically. Establishing semiconductor units, also known as fabs, is a highly specialized, complex, and expensive endeavour. These fabs require advanced technology, involve inherent risks, and demand long gestation and payback periods. (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 invites Micron Technology and Applied Materials to boost semiconductor manufacturing in India

<p>One of the key agendas of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden’s impending bilateral talks would be the closing off some of the mega defence deals.</p>

<p>Apart from the jet engine transfer technology and purchase of high-altitude MQ-9 Reaper drones, there are reports suggesting that the US is also mulling offering the “Stryker” family of eight-wheeled armoured fighting vehicles and upgradation of M777 light weight howitzers to India.</p>

<p>However, there is a rider. The India-based Hindustan newspaper has reported, citing officials from New Delhi and Washington, that the final decision to offer these two equipment is contingent upon the conditions imposed by the Biden administration.</p>

<p>If the deal goes through, it will be one of the significant components of the India-US defence cooperation, which will also likely see the inking of a deal with Micron for a $ 2.7 billion chip plant in India and a pact on quantum computing and artificial intelligence.</p>

<h2><strong>Stryker armoured vehicle</strong></h2>

<p>The Strykers are lighter and faster eight-wheel-drive combat vehicles built for the US Army by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS). It is armed with a 30 mm cannon and a 105 mm mobile gun.</p>

<p>The Stryker was deployed in Afghanistan to counter Taliban, and there are reports indicating that Biden is planning to send them to Ukraine as well.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi US visit: Washington rolls out red carpet&nbsp;</strong></h2>

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<p>According to the newspaper, the US is offering the infantry combat vehicle to India and the Modi government is looking for the local manufacture of the armoured vehicle under its “Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative.</p>

<h2><strong>M777 howitzers&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The report further mentioned that US has also offered to upgrade 155 mm M777 howitzers with precision-guided long-range ammunition to counter the artillery challenge on India’s northern borders.</p>

<p>India already has 145 M777 howitzers, of which 120 were made by Mahindra Defence Systems in a joint venture with BAE systems.</p>

<h2><strong>Other defence procurement</strong></h2>

<p>But by far the biggest deal expected to be inked is the F-414 aircraft engines that will power indigenously manufactured Tejas jet and the purchase of Sea Guardian or ‘Reaper’ drones.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sanders-asks-biden-to-call-out-modi-white-house-says-will-not-lecture-india-on-democracy-607180">Sanders asks Biden to call out Modi, White House says 'will not lecture India'</a></p>

<p>The Indian Army has been looking to upgrade its armoury with killer drones ever since it took some on a lease from the US in 2020,</p>

<p>India needs the armed drones— at a cost of over $3 billion — to bolster its surveillance apparatus along the frontier with China as well as in the Indian Ocean region.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-pm-modi-sets-techade-agenda-for-2020s-607153">PM Modi sets 'techade' agenda for making 2020s a transformative era in tech</a></p>

<p>Since 2020, India and China had been at military standoffs at several points along the 3,488 km-long border, with several reports claiming that both sides have deployed close to two lakh troops each.</p>

<p>India has stepped up surveillance considerably along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), using a fleet of unmanned drones and the addition of these drones would be a big upgrade in India’s monitoring programme.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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One of the key agendas of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden’s impending bilateral talks would be the closing off some of the mega defence deals.

One of the key agendas of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden’s impending bilateral talks would be the closing off some of the mega defence deals. Apart from the jet engine transfer technology and purchase of high-altitude MQ-9 Reaper drones, there are reports suggesting that the US is also mulling offering the “Stryker” family of eight-wheeled armoured fighting vehicles and upgradation of M777 light weight howitzers to India. However, there is a rider. The India-based Hindustan newspaper has reported, citing officials from New Delhi and Washington, that the final decision to offer these two equipment is contingent upon the conditions imposed by the Biden administration. If the deal goes through, it will be one of the significant components of the India-US defence cooperation, which will also likely see the inking of a deal with Micron for a $ 2.7 billion chip plant in India and a pact on quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Stryker armoured vehicle The Strykers are lighter and faster eight-wheel-drive combat vehicles built for the US Army by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS). It is armed with a 30 mm cannon and a 105 mm mobile gun. The Stryker was deployed in Afghanistan to counter Taliban, and there are reports indicating that Biden is planning to send them to Ukraine as well. PM Modi US visit: Washington rolls out red carpet According to the newspaper, the US is offering the infantry combat vehicle to India and the Modi government is looking for the local manufacture of the armoured vehicle under its “Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiative. M777 howitzers The report further mentioned that US has also offered to upgrade 155 mm M777 howitzers with precision-guided long-range ammunition to counter the artillery challenge on India’s northern borders. India already has 145 M777 howitzers, of which 120 were made by Mahindra Defence Systems in a joint venture with BAE systems. Other defence procurement But by far the biggest deal expected to be inked is the F-414 aircraft engines that will power indigenously manufactured Tejas jet and the purchase of Sea Guardian or ‘Reaper’ drones. Also read | Sanders asks Biden to call out Modi, White House says 'will not lecture India' The Indian Army has been looking to upgrade its armoury with killer drones ever since it took some on a lease from the US in 2020, India needs the armed drones— at a cost of over $3 billion — to bolster its surveillance apparatus along the frontier with China as well as in the Indian Ocean region. Also read | PM Modi sets 'techade' agenda for making 2020s a transformative era in tech Since 2020, India and China had been at military standoffs at several points along the 3,488 km-long border, with several reports claiming that both sides have deployed close to two lakh troops each. India has stepped up surveillance considerably along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), using a fleet of unmanned drones and the addition of these drones would be a big upgrade in India’s monitoring programme. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi in US: Biden to offer ‘Stryker’ armoured vehicles, howitzer guns upgrade to India, says report

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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a state visit to the USA. After leading Yoga festivities at the UN headquarters in New York on Wednesday, PM Modi met US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden and exchanged special gifts. While Biden gifted an antique American book gallery from the early 20th century, PM Modi gifted an assortment of different items.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian PM presented a special sandalwood box to his US counterpart. The box with intricate flora and fauna patterns has been handcrafted by a master craftsman from Jaipur, a major city in the Western Indian state of Rajasthan.&nbsp; The sandalwood used to make the box has been sourced from Mysore, Karnataka.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Significance of the gift&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The gift celebrates Biden crossing the threshold of 80 years and eight months. According to ancient Indian text&nbsp;<em>Krishna Yajurveda’s Vaikhanas Grihya Sutram,&nbsp;</em>an individual becomes <em>‘Drishta Sahasrachandro’</em> or the one who has seen one thousand full moons when he completes the age of 80 years and eight months.</p>

<p>Since a person crossing this stage of life is celebrated and honoured, an elaborate set of Vedic rituals are performed. During one of the rituals, there is a custom of donations of 10 different kinds. The box carries those items which are usually donated after the ritual.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The box contains an idol of the Indian deity Ganesha, considered the destroyer of obstacles and one who is worshipped first and foremost amongst all gods.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also has a diya (oil lamp), handcrafted by artisans from the family of fifth-generation silversmiths in Kolkata. A diya is used in every Hindu household. A cotton wick dipped in oil is put inside the lamp and lit up during prayers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The box also has a copper plate, sourced from the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In ancient times, the copper plate, also called 'tamra-patra' was used as a medium of writing and record keeping.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-invites-us-students-to-india-as-he-kicks-off-official-visit-607127"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi invites US students to India as he kicks off official visit</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The symbolic donation pieces&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Inside the box, there are 10 symbolic pieces of donation items, kept in handcrafted delicate silver boxes. From delicately handcrafted silver coconut to fragrant piece of sandalwood to 'Til' or white sesame seeds sourced from Tamil Nadu - the little boxes have myriad items.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="PM Modi gift" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="54ea4244-e655-436d-a73f-bee3289f1f10" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-06-22%20075939.png" /></p>

<p>The other items include&nbsp;24K pure and hallmarked gold coin,&nbsp;Ghee or clarified butter, a&nbsp;handwoven textured tussar silk cloth, long-grained rice, jaggery,&nbsp;99.5 per cent&nbsp;pure and hallmarked silver coin and salt from PM Modi's home&nbsp;state of Gujarat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-in-us-live-updates-indian-pm-interacts-with-indian-and-american-students-607104" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | PM Modi in US LIVE updates: Stage set for state dinner for Indian PM hosted by POTUS and FLOTUS</strong></a></p>

<p>Apart from the traditional Hindu gift, PM Modi presented&nbsp;President Biden with a copy of the first edition print of the book, <em>‘The Ten Principal Upanishads’,&nbsp;</em>published by Faber and Faber of London and printed at the University Press, Glasgow.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Eco-friendly green diamond gifted to FLOTUS</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from the thoughtful gift to President Biden, PM Modi presented a lab-grown 7.5-carat green diamond to US First Lady Dr Jill Biden. Using cutting-edge technology, the eco-friendly diamond has been designed to mimic earth-mined diamonds’ chemical and optical properties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It emits only 0.028gm&nbsp;of carbon per carat and is certified by the Gemological lab, IGI. It bears the hallmarks of excellence through the 4C’s: Cut, Colour, Carat and Clarity.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Diamond" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ffb20790-e91c-48b0-988f-e300b9a87c7c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/8f87811f-007c-431f-b04a-a649774ea28d.jpeg" /></p>

<p><img alt="Biden gift" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="292fedeb-71fb-4e78-b06f-a1c5f2b7d15a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/5f49b43d-04d0-462f-b1d1-19921a6827c6.jpeg" /></p>

<p>The beautiful diamond is placed in a papier mâché box known as&nbsp;<em>kar-e-kalamdani.&nbsp;</em>Kashmir’s exquisite papier mâché involves <em>sakthsazi </em>or meticulous preparation of paper pulp and <em>naqqashi</em>, where skilled artisans paint elaborate designs.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a state visit to the USA. After leading Yoga festivities at the UN headquarters in New York on Wednesday, PM Modi met US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden and exchanged special gifts.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently on a state visit to the USA. After leading Yoga festivities at the UN headquarters in New York on Wednesday, PM Modi met US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden and exchanged special gifts. While Biden gifted an antique American book gallery from the early 20th century, PM Modi gifted an assortment of different items. The Indian PM presented a special sandalwood box to his US counterpart. The box with intricate flora and fauna patterns has been handcrafted by a master craftsman from Jaipur, a major city in the Western Indian state of Rajasthan. The sandalwood used to make the box has been sourced from Mysore, Karnataka. Significance of the gift The gift celebrates Biden crossing the threshold of 80 years and eight months. According to ancient Indian text Krishna Yajurveda’s Vaikhanas Grihya Sutram, an individual becomes ‘Drishta Sahasrachandro’ or the one who has seen one thousand full moons when he completes the age of 80 years and eight months. Since a person crossing this stage of life is celebrated and honoured, an elaborate set of Vedic rituals are performed. During one of the rituals, there is a custom of donations of 10 different kinds. The box carries those items which are usually donated after the ritual. PM Modi gives gifts to President Biden, first Lady at the White House pic.twitter.com/ldsiKXCjtd — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 22, 2023 × The box contains an idol of the Indian deity Ganesha, considered the destroyer of obstacles and one who is worshipped first and foremost amongst all gods. It also has a diya (oil lamp), handcrafted by artisans from the family of fifth-generation silversmiths in Kolkata. A diya is used in every Hindu household. A cotton wick dipped in oil is put inside the lamp and lit up during prayers. The box also has a copper plate, sourced from the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In ancient times, the copper plate, also called 'tamra-patra' was used as a medium of writing and record keeping. WATCH | Indian PM Modi invites US students to India as he kicks off official visit × The symbolic donation pieces Inside the box, there are 10 symbolic pieces of donation items, kept in handcrafted delicate silver boxes. From delicately handcrafted silver coconut to fragrant piece of sandalwood to 'Til' or white sesame seeds sourced from Tamil Nadu - the little boxes have myriad items. The other items include 24K pure and hallmarked gold coin, Ghee or clarified butter, a handwoven textured tussar silk cloth, long-grained rice, jaggery, 99.5 per cent pure and hallmarked silver coin and salt from PM Modi's home state of Gujarat. Also read | PM Modi in US LIVE updates: Stage set for state dinner for Indian PM hosted by POTUS and FLOTUS Apart from the traditional Hindu gift, PM Modi presented President Biden with a copy of the first edition print of the book, ‘The Ten Principal Upanishads’, published by Faber and Faber of London and printed at the University Press, Glasgow. Eco-friendly green diamond gifted to FLOTUS Apart from the thoughtful gift to President Biden, PM Modi presented a lab-grown 7.5-carat green diamond to US First Lady Dr Jill Biden. Using cutting-edge technology, the eco-friendly diamond has been designed to mimic earth-mined diamonds’ chemical and optical properties. It emits only 0.028gm of carbon per carat and is certified by the Gemological lab, IGI. It bears the hallmarks of excellence through the 4C’s: Cut, Colour, Carat and Clarity. The beautiful diamond is placed in a papier mâché box known as kar-e-kalamdani. Kashmir’s exquisite papier mâché involves sakthsazi or meticulous preparation of paper pulp and naqqashi, where skilled artisans paint elaborate designs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

What gifts did Indian PM present to US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden?

<p>The Yoga session led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Yoga Day event held at the United Nations headquarters in New York created a Guinness world record for seeing participation from most nationalities. The event was organised to mark the 9th annual International Yoga Day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The world celebrates the International Day of Yoga annually on June 21 since 2015, after the United Nations General Assembly declared the day in 2014.</p>

<p>People from the highest number of nationalities participated this year in the Yoga session held at the United Nations headquarters, making a Guinness world record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Confirming the world record, Guinness World Records official adjudicator Michael Empric said, "Today there was a Guinness World Records title attempt for most nationalities in a Yoga lesson. The mark to be was 140 nationalities. Today in New York, at the UN, they have 135. It is a new Guinness world records title."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Guinness world record for most nationalities in a Yoga session created at the Yoga Day event led by PM Narendra Modi, at the UN headquarters in New York. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalDayofYoga2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalDayofYoga2023</a> <a href="https://t.co/1uClPB1led">pic.twitter.com/1uClPB1led</a></p>
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<p>Many prominent personalities also participated in the Yoga event which was led by PM Modi. The list of personalities included award-winning Indian chef and restaurateur Vikas Khanna, famous Hollywood actor Richard Gere, award-winning storyteller Jay Shetty, American singer Falguni Shah and more. Gere, who reached the UN headquarters ahead of the event, said, "It is a very nice feeling here today."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/modi-in-the-us-marks-a-new-high-in-india-ties-but-engagement-with-pakistan-is-the-real-test-606835">Modi in the US marks a new high in India ties but engagement with Pakistan is the real test</a></p>

<h2><strong>Yoga comes from India, says PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing the event, ahead of the Yoga session, PM Modi said, "We've gathered here at the meeting point of entire humanity. I am delighted to see you all and thank you all for coming. I am told that almost every nationality is represented here today. Yoga means to unite, so you are coming together is an expression of another form of Yoga."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Yoga comes from India, it is an old tradition. Yoga is free from copyright, free from patents, and free from royalty," the prime minister said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Surat's Yoga&nbsp;Day event sets new Guinness World Record&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A Yoga Day event held in Surat city of the Indian state &nbsp;Gujarat on Wednesday created a new Guinness World Record for the largest congregation of people in a yoga session with the participation of 1.53 lakh people in the programme, said officials.</p>

<p>"The Yoga Day event in Surat has set a new Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people for a yoga session in one place. More than one lakh people took part in the event and broke the previous record," stated Gujarat Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi in US: Indian PM Modi to lead Yoga Day celebrations at UNHQ</strong></p>

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<p>"While the state government had set a target of 1.25 lakh people for the Yoga session in Surat, officials of the Guinness World Records have confirmed that more than 1.50 lakh people gathered at the venue," stated Shalini Agarwal, Commissioner, Surat Municipal Corporation.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the state-level International Day of Yoga celebration saw the participation of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in the Dumas area of Surat.</p>

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The Yoga session led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Yoga Day event held at the United Nations headquarters in New York created a Guinness world record for seeing participation from most nationalities.

The Yoga session led by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Yoga Day event held at the United Nations headquarters in New York created a Guinness world record for seeing participation from most nationalities. The event was organised to mark the 9th annual International Yoga Day. The world celebrates the International Day of Yoga annually on June 21 since 2015, after the United Nations General Assembly declared the day in 2014. People from the highest number of nationalities participated this year in the Yoga session held at the United Nations headquarters, making a Guinness world record. Confirming the world record, Guinness World Records official adjudicator Michael Empric said, "Today there was a Guinness World Records title attempt for most nationalities in a Yoga lesson. The mark to be was 140 nationalities. Today in New York, at the UN, they have 135. It is a new Guinness world records title." #WATCH | Guinness world record for most nationalities in a Yoga session created at the Yoga Day event led by PM Narendra Modi, at the UN headquarters in New York. #InternationalDayofYoga2023 pic.twitter.com/1uClPB1led — ANI (@ANI) June 21, 2023 × Many prominent personalities also participated in the Yoga event which was led by PM Modi. The list of personalities included award-winning Indian chef and restaurateur Vikas Khanna, famous Hollywood actor Richard Gere, award-winning storyteller Jay Shetty, American singer Falguni Shah and more. Gere, who reached the UN headquarters ahead of the event, said, "It is a very nice feeling here today." ALSO READ | Modi in the US marks a new high in India ties but engagement with Pakistan is the real test Yoga comes from India, says PM Modi Addressing the event, ahead of the Yoga session, PM Modi said, "We've gathered here at the meeting point of entire humanity. I am delighted to see you all and thank you all for coming. I am told that almost every nationality is represented here today. Yoga means to unite, so you are coming together is an expression of another form of Yoga." "Yoga comes from India, it is an old tradition. Yoga is free from copyright, free from patents, and free from royalty," the prime minister said. Surat's Yoga Day event sets new Guinness World Record A Yoga Day event held in Surat city of the Indian state Gujarat on Wednesday created a new Guinness World Record for the largest congregation of people in a yoga session with the participation of 1.53 lakh people in the programme, said officials. "The Yoga Day event in Surat has set a new Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people for a yoga session in one place. More than one lakh people took part in the event and broke the previous record," stated Gujarat Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi. WATCH | PM Modi in US: Indian PM Modi to lead Yoga Day celebrations at UNHQ "While the state government had set a target of 1.25 lakh people for the Yoga session in Surat, officials of the Guinness World Records have confirmed that more than 1.50 lakh people gathered at the venue," stated Shalini Agarwal, Commissioner, Surat Municipal Corporation. Meanwhile, the state-level International Day of Yoga celebration saw the participation of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in the Dumas area of Surat. 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

Guinness world record created at PM Modi's Yoga event in US for most nationalities

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the United States for a state visit. Amid the much-awaited visit, the White House, in a statement, said that India, like the United States, is a vibrant democracy and that the two nations are going to continue to work on their bilateral relations.</p>

<h2><strong>The world and democracies</strong></h2>

<p>Addressing a press conference, on Tuesday, National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said: "Democracy is tough. We know that. We have seen it firsthand here in this country. It is tough. You have got to work at it."</p>

<p>"India has a vibrant democracy, and they, too, work at it. No democracy at any given point in time reaches perfection," he added, as reported by PTI news agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-obama-trump-biden-and-more-narendra-modi-in-us-over-the-years-606408">Explained: Modi in USA: How Indian PM's past trips&nbsp;unfolded</a></strong></p>

<p>Further describing what the idea of democracy entails, he said: "You try to become more perfect... So we are going to continue to work on this bilateral relationship between these two vibrant, relevant, strong, and influential democracies in the world to improve the relationship."</p>

<h2><strong>I</strong>mproving relations&nbsp;between 'influential democracies'</h2>

<p>As per Kirby, improving the relationship between the "influential democracies" means, "We are also going to have conversations, we can have and we need to have somewhat uncomfortable conversations with our partners and our friends and our allies."</p>

<p>"That is what you can do when you have, when you are partners and friends and allies, is have conversations about uncomfortable issues," said the US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications.</p>

<h2><strong>US and human rights</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to a question about human rights, Kirby said President Joe Biden raises concerns over human rights wherever he goes around the world and with whatever world leader he is in communication with.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-in-us-indian-prime-minister-arrives-in-new-york-for-state-visit-606630">PM Modi lands in New York, begins landmark State visit to US</a></strong></p>

<p>"Human rights are a foundational element of this (Biden) administration's foreign policy, and you can certainly expect that the president will, as he always does and as you can do with friends and partners like Prime Minister Modi in India, raise our concerns about that," he added.</p>

<p>Kirby said that the US routinely raises human rights concerns with its friends, allies, partners and even nations that it is not so friendly with.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are not bashful about raising those concerns, and we will continue to do that," he remarked.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi in USA</strong></h2>

<p>Indian PM Narendra Modi is visiting the US from June 21-24 at the invitation of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. The two will also&nbsp;host Modi at a State Dinner on June 22. On the same day, Modi is also scheduled to address the joint session of the US Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the United States for a state visit. Amid the much-awaited visit, the White House, in a statement, said that India, like the United States, is a vibrant democracy and that the two nations are going to continue to work on their bilateral relations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in the United States for a state visit. Amid the much-awaited visit, the White House, in a statement, said that India, like the United States, is a vibrant democracy and that the two nations are going to continue to work on their bilateral relations. The world and democracies Addressing a press conference, on Tuesday, National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby said: "Democracy is tough. We know that. We have seen it firsthand here in this country. It is tough. You have got to work at it." "India has a vibrant democracy, and they, too, work at it. No democracy at any given point in time reaches perfection," he added, as reported by PTI news agency. Also read | Explained: Modi in USA: How Indian PM's past trips unfolded Further describing what the idea of democracy entails, he said: "You try to become more perfect... So we are going to continue to work on this bilateral relationship between these two vibrant, relevant, strong, and influential democracies in the world to improve the relationship." Improving relations between 'influential democracies' As per Kirby, improving the relationship between the "influential democracies" means, "We are also going to have conversations, we can have and we need to have somewhat uncomfortable conversations with our partners and our friends and our allies." "That is what you can do when you have, when you are partners and friends and allies, is have conversations about uncomfortable issues," said the US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications. US and human rights Responding to a question about human rights, Kirby said President Joe Biden raises concerns over human rights wherever he goes around the world and with whatever world leader he is in communication with. Also read | PM Modi lands in New York, begins landmark State visit to US "Human rights are a foundational element of this (Biden) administration's foreign policy, and you can certainly expect that the president will, as he always does and as you can do with friends and partners like Prime Minister Modi in India, raise our concerns about that," he added. Kirby said that the US routinely raises human rights concerns with its friends, allies, partners and even nations that it is not so friendly with. "We are not bashful about raising those concerns, and we will continue to do that," he remarked. Modi in USA Indian PM Narendra Modi is visiting the US from June 21-24 at the invitation of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. The two will also host Modi at a State Dinner on June 22. On the same day, Modi is also scheduled to address the joint session of the US Congress. (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.

US says 'India has vibrant democracy,' both nations will continue to work on bilateral relations

<p>Twitter boss Elon Musk after meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the&nbsp;New York Palace Hotel in New York City on Tuesday commented on the recent statements made by his predecessor Jack Dorsey. Twitter founder and&nbsp;former CEO Dorsey had recently claimed that the social media platform received threats of being booted out of India&nbsp;after not accepting the request to block certain accounts at the peak of the farmers' protest by the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Twitter doesn't have a choice but to obey local governments. If we don't obey local government laws then we will get shut down," Musk told the reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The best we can do is to follow the laws in any given country," the billionaire said, adding that it is impossible for "us to do more than that".<br />
<br />
"We will do the best to revive the freest speech possible under the law," he concluded.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modis-us-visit-i-am-a-fan-of-modi-says-elon-musk-after-meeting-pm-in-new-york-606705"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi’s US visit: ‘I am a fan of Modi’, says Elon Musk after meeting PM in New York</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What did Dorsey say?</strong></h2>

<p>“India for example, India is one of the countries which had many requests around farmers protests, around particular journalists which were critical of the government, and it manifested in ways such as ‘we will shut Twitter down in India’… ‘we would raid the homes of your employees', which they did; ‘we will shut down your offices if you don't follow suit’. And this is India, a democratic country," said Dorsey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dorsey, who left Twitter last year after&nbsp;Musk took over the company, added that Turkey under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan behaved in a similar way to India. Ankara reportedly threatened to shut down Twitter and later got embroiled in a legal battle with the microblogging platform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Turkey is very similar (to India), like we had so many requests from Turkey. We fought Turkey in their courts and often won, but they threatened to shut us down constantly,”&nbsp;said Dorsey.</p>

<p>He added that Twitter could not put its employees on the ground in Nigeria, out of fear what the government might do to them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-govt-calls-dorseys-claims-about-farmers-protests-outright-lies-603694"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Indian govt calls Dorsey's claims about 'pressure' during farmers' protest 'outright lies'</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>How did India respond?</strong></h2>

<p>Union Minister of State for&nbsp;Electronics &amp; Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar posted a rebuttal where he said Dorsey was attempting to "brush out a very dubious period of Twitter's history".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Twitter under Dorsey and&nbsp;his team were in repeated and continuous violations of Indian laws. As a matter of fact, they were in non-compliance with law repeatedly from 2020 to 2022 and it was only June 2022 when they finally complied," said Chandrasekhar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"During the protests in January 2021, there was a lot of misinformation and even reports of genocide which were definitely fake. GoI was obligated to remove misinformation from the platform because it had the potential to further inflame the situation based on fake news," the minister added.</p>

<p>The farmers' protests started after the Modi government brought three controversial farm laws. Thousands of farmers from across the country camped in and around the capital city of Delhi for nearly a year, forcing the government to repeal the laws in November 2021.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Twitter boss Elon Musk after meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the New York Palace Hotel in New York City on Tuesday commented on the recent statements made by his predecessor Jack Dorsey.

Twitter boss Elon Musk after meeting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the New York Palace Hotel in New York City on Tuesday commented on the recent statements made by his predecessor Jack Dorsey. Twitter founder and former CEO Dorsey had recently claimed that the social media platform received threats of being booted out of India after not accepting the request to block certain accounts at the peak of the farmers' protest by the government. “Twitter doesn't have a choice but to obey local governments. If we don't obey local government laws then we will get shut down," Musk told the reporters. "The best we can do is to follow the laws in any given country," the billionaire said, adding that it is impossible for "us to do more than that". "We will do the best to revive the freest speech possible under the law," he concluded. WATCH | PM Modi’s US visit: ‘I am a fan of Modi’, says Elon Musk after meeting PM in New York × What did Dorsey say? “India for example, India is one of the countries which had many requests around farmers protests, around particular journalists which were critical of the government, and it manifested in ways such as ‘we will shut Twitter down in India’… ‘we would raid the homes of your employees', which they did; ‘we will shut down your offices if you don't follow suit’. And this is India, a democratic country," said Dorsey. Dorsey, who left Twitter last year after Musk took over the company, added that Turkey under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan behaved in a similar way to India. Ankara reportedly threatened to shut down Twitter and later got embroiled in a legal battle with the microblogging platform. “Turkey is very similar (to India), like we had so many requests from Turkey. We fought Turkey in their courts and often won, but they threatened to shut us down constantly,” said Dorsey. He added that Twitter could not put its employees on the ground in Nigeria, out of fear what the government might do to them. Also read | Indian govt calls Dorsey's claims about 'pressure' during farmers' protest 'outright lies' How did India respond? Union Minister of State for Electronics & Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar posted a rebuttal where he said Dorsey was attempting to "brush out a very dubious period of Twitter's history". "Twitter under Dorsey and his team were in repeated and continuous violations of Indian laws. As a matter of fact, they were in non-compliance with law repeatedly from 2020 to 2022 and it was only June 2022 when they finally complied," said Chandrasekhar. "During the protests in January 2021, there was a lot of misinformation and even reports of genocide which were definitely fake. GoI was obligated to remove misinformation from the platform because it had the potential to further inflame the situation based on fake news," the minister added. The farmers' protests started after the Modi government brought three controversial farm laws. Thousands of farmers from across the country camped in and around the capital city of Delhi for nearly a year, forcing the government to repeal the laws in November 2021. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Elon Musk responds to Jack Dorsey’s claim that India threatened to boot out Twitter

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