<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended a formal invitation to US Vice President Kamala Harris to visit India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "The people of India are waiting to welcome you. I extend to you an invitation to visit India."</p>

<p>Harris is&nbsp;the first Indian-American woman and person of colour to be elected vice president of the United States.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Tête-à-tête between PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> Kamala Harris before commencing delegation level talks. This is their first in-person meeting. <a href="https://t.co/siKcVe88c3">pic.twitter.com/siKcVe88c3</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1441132734492065792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> "The people of India are waiting to welcome you. I extend to you an invitation to visit India," PM Modi to US Vice President Kamala Harris, in Washington DC <a href="https://t.co/Gtw13sYnZW">pic.twitter.com/Gtw13sYnZW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1441128194686390274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Your election as Vice President of the United States has been an important and historic event," the Indian Prime Minister said of the Indian-origin Democratic leader.</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> Your (Kamala Harris) election as Vice President of USA has been an important &amp; historic event. You're a source of inspiration for many across the world. I'm confident that under Pres Biden &amp; your leadership our bilateral relations will touch new heights: PM Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/zEVruaiAWc">pic.twitter.com/zEVruaiAWc</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1441129684482150401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"You are an inspiration to many people all around the world. I am certain that our bilateral ties will reach new heights under President Biden's and your leadership," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">US: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice-President Kamala Harris seen having a conversation at the premises of the White House after their joint statement <a href="https://t.co/t4VVlK8PkD">pic.twitter.com/t4VVlK8PkD</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1441128383388151814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier in June this year, PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with Harris and discussed the US' strategy for global vaccine sharing and the Quad vaccine initiative to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended a formal invitation to US Vice President Kamala Harris to visit India. He said, "The people of India are waiting to welcome you.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended a formal invitation to US Vice President Kamala Harris to visit India. He said, "The people of India are waiting to welcome you. I extend to you an invitation to visit India." Harris is the first Indian-American woman and person of colour to be elected vice president of the United States. Tête-à-tête between PM @narendramodi and @VP Kamala Harris before commencing delegation level talks. This is their first in-person meeting. pic.twitter.com/siKcVe88c3 — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) September 23, 2021 × #WATCH "The people of India are waiting to welcome you. I extend to you an invitation to visit India," PM Modi to US Vice President Kamala Harris, in Washington DC pic.twitter.com/Gtw13sYnZW — ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2021 × "Your election as Vice President of the United States has been an important and historic event," the Indian Prime Minister said of the Indian-origin Democratic leader. #WATCH Your (Kamala Harris) election as Vice President of USA has been an important & historic event. You're a source of inspiration for many across the world. I'm confident that under Pres Biden & your leadership our bilateral relations will touch new heights: PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/zEVruaiAWc — ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2021 × "You are an inspiration to many people all around the world. I am certain that our bilateral ties will reach new heights under President Biden's and your leadership," he said. US: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice-President Kamala Harris seen having a conversation at the premises of the White House after their joint statement pic.twitter.com/t4VVlK8PkD — ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2021 × Earlier in June this year, PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with Harris and discussed the US' strategy for global vaccine sharing and the Quad vaccine initiative to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India, says her election a historic event

<p>Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Observers expressed doubts about the sincerity of Washington's approach towards Pakistan, wondering if America is changing tone depending on the audience, when formulating its approach towards its now-estranged ally in South Asia. US President Joe Biden, significantly, is yet to call Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.</p>

<p>While Harris brought up the issue of cross-border terrorism on her own during her meeting with Modi, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held his first in-person talks with Pakistani foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch: <strong>Prime Minister Narendra Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two "discussed the way forward in Afghanistan," said a state department readout. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Secretary Blinken reiterated the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement and facilitating the departure of those wishing to leave Afghanistan. The secretary noted that the United States appreciates Pakistan’s support and assistance with both of these efforts," it added.</p>

<p>In his remarks, Blinken said: "I’m very pleased to be meeting with my friend and counterpart from Pakistan, Foreign Minister Qureshi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Appreciate the work that Pakistan has done to facilitate the departure of American citizens who wish to leave as well as others, but a lot to talk about there as well as our own bilateral relationship, including the economic relationship between our countries and working in the region as a whole."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, briefing reporters after the Modi-Harris meeting, said: “When the issue of terrorism came up, the vice president suo moto referred to Pakistan's role in that regard.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-referred-to-pakistans-role-in-terrorism-during-meeting-with-pm-modi-shringla-415387"><strong>US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla</strong></a></p>

<p>Harris agreed that India had been a victim of terrorism for several decades, Shringla said, and there was "a need to rein in, and closely monitor, Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups".</p>

<p>“She&nbsp;asked Pakistan to take action so that this will not impact US security and that of India...She agreed with the prime minister's briefing on the fact of cross-border terrorism, and the fact that India has been a victim of terrorism for several decades now and on the need to rein in, and closely monitor Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India is an important partner: US Vice-President Kamala Harris</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>For his part, Qureshi, during his talks with Blinken, raked up the Kashmir issue and sought legitimisation of the Taliban government in Kabul, warning the US against disengaging with Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Saying that a "new political reality" had emerged in Afghanistan, he pointed out: “While the Taliban should be held to their commitments, the international community has a moral obligation to help the Afghan people deal with the growing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shared w/ <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a> importance of int’l community holding Taliban to their commitments; also for the same community to recognise moral obligation to help the Afghan people with growing humanitarian crisis. The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7">https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7</a></p>
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/SMQureshiPTI/status/1441110737414332417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>“The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with Afghanistan consistently. There is no military solution and Pakistan is committed to facilitating inclusive political settlement,” he wrote later on Twitter.</p>


Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan.

Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan. Observers expressed doubts about the sincerity of Washington's approach towards Pakistan, wondering if America is changing tone depending on the audience, when formulating its approach towards its now-estranged ally in South Asia. US President Joe Biden, significantly, is yet to call Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. While Harris brought up the issue of cross-border terrorism on her own during her meeting with Modi, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held his first in-person talks with Pakistani foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Watch: Prime Minister Narendra Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India × The two "discussed the way forward in Afghanistan," said a state department readout. "Secretary Blinken reiterated the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement and facilitating the departure of those wishing to leave Afghanistan. The secretary noted that the United States appreciates Pakistan’s support and assistance with both of these efforts," it added. In his remarks, Blinken said: "I’m very pleased to be meeting with my friend and counterpart from Pakistan, Foreign Minister Qureshi. "Appreciate the work that Pakistan has done to facilitate the departure of American citizens who wish to leave as well as others, but a lot to talk about there as well as our own bilateral relationship, including the economic relationship between our countries and working in the region as a whole." Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, briefing reporters after the Modi-Harris meeting, said: “When the issue of terrorism came up, the vice president suo moto referred to Pakistan's role in that regard.” Also read: US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla Harris agreed that India had been a victim of terrorism for several decades, Shringla said, and there was "a need to rein in, and closely monitor, Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups". “She asked Pakistan to take action so that this will not impact US security and that of India...She agreed with the prime minister's briefing on the fact of cross-border terrorism, and the fact that India has been a victim of terrorism for several decades now and on the need to rein in, and closely monitor Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups.” Watch: India is an important partner: US Vice-President Kamala Harris × For his part, Qureshi, during his talks with Blinken, raked up the Kashmir issue and sought legitimisation of the Taliban government in Kabul, warning the US against disengaging with Afghanistan. Saying that a "new political reality" had emerged in Afghanistan, he pointed out: “While the Taliban should be held to their commitments, the international community has a moral obligation to help the Afghan people deal with the growing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.” Shared w/ @SecBlinken importance of int’l community holding Taliban to their commitments; also for the same community to recognise moral obligation to help the Afghan people with growing humanitarian crisis. The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with #Afghanistan https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7 — Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) September 23, 2021 × “The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with Afghanistan consistently. There is no military solution and Pakistan is committed to facilitating inclusive political settlement,” he wrote later on Twitter.

Double standards? While Kamala Harris talks of Pak terror role, Blinken 'appreciates' it over Afghanistan

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidvjomuMwBphN6" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>As India is pushing for safe and secure 5G technology and amid a global shortage of semiconductors, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's one-on-one meeting with Cristiano E Amon, the President and CEO of semiconductor maker Qualcomm, is of huge significance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from Qualcomm, PM Modi also met with CEOs of Adobe, First Solar, General Atomics and Blackstone on Thursday (September 23) during his visit to the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official handle of the Prime Minister's office also tweeted that PM Modi has highlighted the vast economic opportunities India has to offer and Amon expressed "keenness to work with India" in areas such as 5G and other Digital India efforts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Qualcomm CEO 'proud' of partnership with India</strong></p>

<p>Sources said Amon expressed enthusiasm to work with India on ambitious digital transformation programmes including in 5G, PM WANI and others. He also expressed interest in partnering with India to work in the field of semiconductors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are so proud of our partnership (with India)," Amon said in the video posted by PMO after his meeting with the prime minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We talked about 5G and the celebration of 5G. We talked about an incredible opportunity to advance the industry not only domestically in India but India as an export of technology," he said in response to a question.</p>

<p>"We talked about semiconductors, which is kind of an important topic of conversation. And we talked about the opportunity to continue to build an incredible mobile ecosystem that is developing in India. We are very pleased with the conversations and we're very, very happy with everything we're doing together with India," he said.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pm-modi-in-usa-quad-unga-joe-biden-415080">UNGA: PM Modi arrives in US, busy days ahead</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is a great meeting…we are so proud of our partnership with India.<br />
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Here is what President and CEO of <a href="https://twitter.com/Qualcomm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Qualcomm</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/cristianoamon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cristianoamon</a> said after the meeting with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> in Washington DC. <a href="https://t.co/ggOrSRoWxn">pic.twitter.com/ggOrSRoWxn</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1441056904306782217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Responding to a question, Amon said Qualcomm would continue to invest in India and he said that India could be an important destination for the semiconductor industry, subject to the availability of infrastructure.</p>

<p>India, he said, is a great place for investors, not only to invest directly, but also to support other companies. For example, Qualcomm has a designing India program that helps several startup companies in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amon said Qualcomm has been very successful to date with all the investments that are made in India and the Prime Minister's approach to drive economic growth in making India a "destination for investment" has been very successful. "We welcome that," he said.</p>

<p>A release from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said they discussed "investment opportunities offered in India’s telecommunications and electronics sector."</p>

<p>This included the recently launched Production Linked Incentive Scheme&nbsp;for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing as well as developments in the semiconductor supply chain in India. Strategies for building the local innovation ecosystem in India were also discussed.</p>

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<p><strong>What is Qualcomm?</strong></p>

<p>Qualcomm is an American multinational corporation with headquarters in San Diego, California. Incorporated in Delaware, it creates semiconductors, software and services related to wireless technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A world leader in 3G, 4G and next-generation wireless technology innovations for more than 30 years, Qualcomm is now pioneering its way to 5G with a new era of intelligent products.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ceos-shower-praise-for-india-as-prime-minister-narendra-modi-meets-them-in-us-415290">CEOs shower praise for India as Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets them in US</a></strong></p>

<p>As India is looking for a major investment from Qualcomm, discussions on strategies for building the local innovation ecosystem will be pivotal for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


As India is pushing for safe and secure 5G technology and amid a global shortage of semiconductors, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's one-on-one meeting with Cristiano E Amon, the President and CEO of semiconductor maker Qualcomm, is of huge significance.

As India is pushing for safe and secure 5G technology and amid a global shortage of semiconductors, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's one-on-one meeting with Cristiano E Amon, the President and CEO of semiconductor maker Qualcomm, is of huge significance. Apart from Qualcomm, PM Modi also met with CEOs of Adobe, First Solar, General Atomics and Blackstone on Thursday (September 23) during his visit to the United States. The official handle of the Prime Minister's office also tweeted that PM Modi has highlighted the vast economic opportunities India has to offer and Amon expressed "keenness to work with India" in areas such as 5G and other Digital India efforts. Qualcomm CEO 'proud' of partnership with India Sources said Amon expressed enthusiasm to work with India on ambitious digital transformation programmes including in 5G, PM WANI and others. He also expressed interest in partnering with India to work in the field of semiconductors. "We are so proud of our partnership (with India)," Amon said in the video posted by PMO after his meeting with the prime minister. "We talked about 5G and the celebration of 5G. We talked about an incredible opportunity to advance the industry not only domestically in India but India as an export of technology," he said in response to a question. "We talked about semiconductors, which is kind of an important topic of conversation. And we talked about the opportunity to continue to build an incredible mobile ecosystem that is developing in India. We are very pleased with the conversations and we're very, very happy with everything we're doing together with India," he said. IN PICS | UNGA: PM Modi arrives in US, busy days ahead It is a great meeting…we are so proud of our partnership with India. Here is what President and CEO of @Qualcomm, @cristianoamon said after the meeting with PM @narendramodi in Washington DC. pic.twitter.com/ggOrSRoWxn — PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 23, 2021 × Responding to a question, Amon said Qualcomm would continue to invest in India and he said that India could be an important destination for the semiconductor industry, subject to the availability of infrastructure. India, he said, is a great place for investors, not only to invest directly, but also to support other companies. For example, Qualcomm has a designing India program that helps several startup companies in India. Amon said Qualcomm has been very successful to date with all the investments that are made in India and the Prime Minister's approach to drive economic growth in making India a "destination for investment" has been very successful. "We welcome that," he said. A release from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said they discussed "investment opportunities offered in India’s telecommunications and electronics sector." This included the recently launched Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing as well as developments in the semiconductor supply chain in India. Strategies for building the local innovation ecosystem in India were also discussed. × What is Qualcomm? Qualcomm is an American multinational corporation with headquarters in San Diego, California. Incorporated in Delaware, it creates semiconductors, software and services related to wireless technology. A world leader in 3G, 4G and next-generation wireless technology innovations for more than 30 years, Qualcomm is now pioneering its way to 5G with a new era of intelligent products. ALSO READ | CEOs shower praise for India as Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets them in US As India is looking for a major investment from Qualcomm, discussions on strategies for building the local innovation ecosystem will be pivotal for India. (With inputs from agencies)

Why PM Narendra Modi's meeting with semiconductor firm Qualcomm's CEO Cristiano E Amon is pivotal for India

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached USA on September 23 (as per Indian time). The PM&nbsp;will be&nbsp;engaged in a number of&nbsp;high-profile meetings. Over the entirety of his US visit, PM Modi will address 76th session of United Nations General Assembly, meet US President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris, attend Quad summit and more. These high-profile meets are happening this year just over a month after Taliban's capture of power in Afghanistan. This and many other issues are likely to feature in talks.</p>

<p>PM Modi has addressed Global Covid-19 Summit. During his address he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/global-covid-19-summit-indian-pm-modi-bats-for-mutual-recognition-of-vaccine-certificates-amid-uk-row-414998">made a case for mutual recognition of vaccine certificates</a>. This has come amid India's row with Britain on the same issue.</p>

<p><strong>Here is PM Modi's schedule on day 1 of his US visit</strong></p>

<p><strong>September 23 (Indian time)</strong></p>

<p><strong>7:15 pm IST: Meet with global CEOs</strong></p>

<p>PM Narendra Modi will meet CEOs of prominent global companies. Two of them are of&nbsp;Indian heritage.</p>

<p>The CEOs PM Modi will meet include Shantanu Narayen from Adobe Vivek Lall from General Atomics, Cristiano E Amon from Qualcomm, Mark Widmar from First Solar, and Stephen A Schwarzman from Blackstone.</p>

<p><strong>In Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pm-modi-in-usa-quad-unga-joe-biden-415080">UNGA: PM Modi arrives in US, busy days ahead</a></strong></p>

<p>The Prime Minister's meeting with American CEOs from five different key areas is reflective of the priorities of his government.</p>

<p>While Narayen reflects the IT and digital priority that the Indian government is pushing for, Modi's meeting with Lall is significant as General Atomics is not only the pioneer in military drone technologies but also the world's top manufacturer of state-of-the-art military drones, which the US shares only with its key allies and partners.</p>

<p>Jakarta-born Vivek Lall, now based out of California, for over a decade has been instrumental in major bilateral defence deals worth around $18 billion, as India and the US take steps to forge a new relationship in which defence trade is a key pillar.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/global-covid-19-summit-indian-pm-modi-bats-for-mutual-recognition-of-vaccine-certificates-amid-uk-row-414998">Global COVID-19 summit: Indian PM Modi bats for mutual recognition of vaccine certificates amid UK row</a></strong></p>

<p>Stephen A Schwarzman is Chairman, CEO and Co-Founder of Blackstone, one of the world's leading investment firms investing capital on behalf of pension funds, large institutions and individuals.</p>

<p>The meeting with Qualcomm's Cristiano Amon assumes significance, given India's push for the 5G technology to be safe and secure.</p>

<p>Meeting with Mark Widmar is important as First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (“PV”) solar solutions</p>

<p><strong>11 pm IST: Meet with Australian PM Scott Morisson</strong></p>

<p>PM Modi will hold a separate meeting with Australian PM Scott Morrison. Both India and Australia are part of Quad grouping that includes USA, Japan additionally.</p>

<p>Australia recently struck a submarine deal with US and UK</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modis-flight-to-us-skips-frankfurt-stopover-courtesy-advanced-aircraft-414962">Indian PM Narendra Modi's flight to US skips Frankfurt stopover, courtesy advanced aircraft </a></strong></p>

<p>PM Modi is scheduled to meet US President Joe Biden on September 24. The day will also be important because of the Quad summit. This will be first in-person summit of the grouping.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached USA on September 23 (as per Indian time). The PM will be engaged in a number of high-profile meetings. Over the entirety of his US visit, PM Modi will address 76th session of United Nations General Assembly, meet US President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris, attend Quad summit and more.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached USA on September 23 (as per Indian time). The PM will be engaged in a number of high-profile meetings. Over the entirety of his US visit, PM Modi will address 76th session of United Nations General Assembly, meet US President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris, attend Quad summit and more. These high-profile meets are happening this year just over a month after Taliban's capture of power in Afghanistan. This and many other issues are likely to feature in talks. PM Modi has addressed Global Covid-19 Summit. During his address he made a case for mutual recognition of vaccine certificates. This has come amid India's row with Britain on the same issue. Here is PM Modi's schedule on day 1 of his US visit September 23 (Indian time) 7:15 pm IST: Meet with global CEOs PM Narendra Modi will meet CEOs of prominent global companies. Two of them are of Indian heritage. The CEOs PM Modi will meet include Shantanu Narayen from Adobe Vivek Lall from General Atomics, Cristiano E Amon from Qualcomm, Mark Widmar from First Solar, and Stephen A Schwarzman from Blackstone. In Pics | UNGA: PM Modi arrives in US, busy days ahead The Prime Minister's meeting with American CEOs from five different key areas is reflective of the priorities of his government. While Narayen reflects the IT and digital priority that the Indian government is pushing for, Modi's meeting with Lall is significant as General Atomics is not only the pioneer in military drone technologies but also the world's top manufacturer of state-of-the-art military drones, which the US shares only with its key allies and partners. Jakarta-born Vivek Lall, now based out of California, for over a decade has been instrumental in major bilateral defence deals worth around $18 billion, as India and the US take steps to forge a new relationship in which defence trade is a key pillar. Also Read | Global COVID-19 summit: Indian PM Modi bats for mutual recognition of vaccine certificates amid UK row Stephen A Schwarzman is Chairman, CEO and Co-Founder of Blackstone, one of the world's leading investment firms investing capital on behalf of pension funds, large institutions and individuals. The meeting with Qualcomm's Cristiano Amon assumes significance, given India's push for the 5G technology to be safe and secure. Meeting with Mark Widmar is important as First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (“PV”) solar solutions 11 pm IST: Meet with Australian PM Scott Morisson PM Modi will hold a separate meeting with Australian PM Scott Morrison. Both India and Australia are part of Quad grouping that includes USA, Japan additionally. Australia recently struck a submarine deal with US and UK Also Read | Indian PM Narendra Modi's flight to US skips Frankfurt stopover, courtesy advanced aircraft PM Modi is scheduled to meet US President Joe Biden on September 24. The day will also be important because of the Quad summit. This will be first in-person summit of the grouping. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi's US visit day 1 schedule: Meet with Australian PM Scott Morrison, global CEOs

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for a three-day visit to the US on Wednesday. Duringhis visit, he will address UN General Assembly, attend the Quad summit and also hold a bilateral meet with US President Joe Biden.</p>

<p>Biden will host PM Modi at the White House on September 24. This will be his first in-person meeting with Modi after he became president of theh US.</p>

<p>As per the statement issued by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, PM Modi and President Biden are expected to discuss ways to stem radicalisation and combat terrorism. They are also expected to discuss ways to bolster defence, trade ties, security collaborations and clean energy partnership among others.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-bilateral-ties-destined-to-move-ahead-says-indias-envoy-to-us-taranjit-singh-sandhu-414790">Exclusive-Bilateral ties destined to move ahead, says India's envoy to US Taranjit Singh Sandhu</a></strong></p>

<p>PM Modi and Biden will discuss the current regional security situation following the recent developments in Afghanistan. PM Modi will also hold business interactions during his US visit from September 22-25. Prime Minister Modi will attend the first in-person summit of the Quad hosted by the US President on Friday, which will be attended by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan and Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia. PM Modi will address the General Debate of the High-Level Segment of 76th Session of UN General Assembly (UNGA) on September 25 in New York. The theme for this year`s general debate is building resilience through hope to recover from COVID-19, rebuild sustainability, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people and revitalise the United Nations.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-unga-sidelines-jaishankar-discusses-afghanistan-indo-pacific-in-bilateral-meetings-414763">On UNGA sidelines, Jaishankar discusses Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific in bilateral meetings&nbsp;</a></strong><br />
<br />
While addressing the UN General Assembly, the Prime Minister will dwell on the important issues, including the regional situation, cross border terrorism, global efforts to combat COVID-19 and climate change and the need to reform multilateral institutions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another element of the Prime Minister`s visit would be bilateral meetings with Japan and Australia. He will hold several bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-biden-pm-modis-meeting-will-strengthen-deep-ties-says-us-ahead-of-unga-414562">President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA</a></strong></p>

<p>PM Modi is accompanied by a high-level delegation consisting of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and senior officials including Shringla. This is Prime Minister Modi`s first visit abroad beyond the neighbourhood since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for a three-day visit to the US on Wednesday. Duringhis visit, he will address UN General Assembly, attend the Quad summit and also hold a bilateral meet with US President Joe Biden.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for a three-day visit to the US on Wednesday. Duringhis visit, he will address UN General Assembly, attend the Quad summit and also hold a bilateral meet with US President Joe Biden. Biden will host PM Modi at the White House on September 24. This will be his first in-person meeting with Modi after he became president of theh US. As per the statement issued by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, PM Modi and President Biden are expected to discuss ways to stem radicalisation and combat terrorism. They are also expected to discuss ways to bolster defence, trade ties, security collaborations and clean energy partnership among others. Also Read: Exclusive-Bilateral ties destined to move ahead, says India's envoy to US Taranjit Singh Sandhu PM Modi and Biden will discuss the current regional security situation following the recent developments in Afghanistan. PM Modi will also hold business interactions during his US visit from September 22-25. Prime Minister Modi will attend the first in-person summit of the Quad hosted by the US President on Friday, which will be attended by Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan and Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia. PM Modi will address the General Debate of the High-Level Segment of 76th Session of UN General Assembly (UNGA) on September 25 in New York. The theme for this year`s general debate is building resilience through hope to recover from COVID-19, rebuild sustainability, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people and revitalise the United Nations. Also Read: On UNGA sidelines, Jaishankar discusses Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific in bilateral meetings While addressing the UN General Assembly, the Prime Minister will dwell on the important issues, including the regional situation, cross border terrorism, global efforts to combat COVID-19 and climate change and the need to reform multilateral institutions. Another element of the Prime Minister`s visit would be bilateral meetings with Japan and Australia. He will hold several bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Also Read: President Biden, PM Modi's meeting will strengthen deep ties, says US ahead of UNGA PM Modi is accompanied by a high-level delegation consisting of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and senior officials including Shringla. This is Prime Minister Modi`s first visit abroad beyond the neighbourhood since the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi leaves for three-day visit to US

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted India's commitment to restore degraded land while speaking at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).</p>

<p>He was speaking in his capacity as the President of the 14th Session of the Conference of Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).</p>

<p>Joining the "UN High-Level Dialogue on Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought” virtually, he said, "We are on track to achieve our national commitment of land degradation neutrality. We are also working towards restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030." Adding, "This would contribute to India’s commitment to achieve an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of Carbon dioxide equivalent."</p>

<p>Desertification and&nbsp;land degradation are key global issues of concern as part of the climate change crisis. India is establishing a Centre of Excellence to promote a scientific approach towards land degradation issues.</p>

<p>The PM pointed out, "In India, over the last 10 years, around three million hectares of forest cover had been added. This has enhanced the combined forest cover to almost one-fourth of the country’s total area."</p>

<p>New Delhi is also assisting fellow developing countries to develop land restoration strategies as part of South-South Cooperation. Land degradation affects over two-thirds of the world today.</p>

<p>During the address, PM pointed out how in the Banni region of the Rann of Kutch in state of Gujarat, land restoration is done by developing grasslands. This has not only helped in "achieving land degradation neutrality" but also supports pastoral activities and livelihood by promoting animal husbandry.</p>

<p>"It is mankind’s collective responsibility to reverse the damage to land caused by human activity", PM said while terming leaving a "health planet for our future generations" a "sacred duty".</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted India's commitment to restore degraded land while speaking at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He was speaking in his capacity as the President of the 14th Session of the Conference of Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted India's commitment to restore degraded land while speaking at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He was speaking in his capacity as the President of the 14th Session of the Conference of Parties of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Joining the "UN High-Level Dialogue on Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought” virtually, he said, "We are on track to achieve our national commitment of land degradation neutrality. We are also working towards restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030." Adding, "This would contribute to India’s commitment to achieve an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of Carbon dioxide equivalent." Desertification and land degradation are key global issues of concern as part of the climate change crisis. India is establishing a Centre of Excellence to promote a scientific approach towards land degradation issues. The PM pointed out, "In India, over the last 10 years, around three million hectares of forest cover had been added. This has enhanced the combined forest cover to almost one-fourth of the country’s total area." New Delhi is also assisting fellow developing countries to develop land restoration strategies as part of South-South Cooperation. Land degradation affects over two-thirds of the world today. During the address, PM pointed out how in the Banni region of the Rann of Kutch in state of Gujarat, land restoration is done by developing grasslands. This has not only helped in "achieving land degradation neutrality" but also supports pastoral activities and livelihood by promoting animal husbandry. "It is mankind’s collective responsibility to reverse the damage to land caused by human activity", PM said while terming leaving a "health planet for our future generations" a "sacred duty".

At UNGA, PM Modi highlights India's commitments to restore degraded land

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (September 16) inaugurated Defence Offices Complexes at Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Africa Avenue in New Delhi.</p>

<p>The new Defence Offices Complexes will accommodate around 7,000 officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy and Air Force. The buildings will provide modern, secure and functional working spaces.</p>

<p>An Integrated Command and Control Centre has been established for managing building operations, while also catering to the end to end safety and surveillance of both the buildings.</p>

<p><img alt="Central Vista" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2810a24e-70ed-4e0a-bb2c-74600cd0d493" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/central%20vista.jpg" /></p>

<p>During his address at the time of inauguration, PM Modi slammed critics of the Central Vista project that involves major overhaul of Indian capital's Lutyens area. Modi said that those criticising the project never mentioned that Defence Offices Complexes are also a part of the project as that would expose their 'falsity', adding that modern infrastructure is pertinent for economic development of the country.</p>

<p>"The people who were criticising the Central Vista project never mentioned the Defence Offices Complexes, which is also part of the Centra Vista... They knew their falsity would be exposed," he said.</p>

<p>"When we are focusing on ease of living and ease of doing business, modern infrastructure plays an equally important role. This is the idea behind the work that is being done in the development of the Central Vista," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>Mentioning the importance of the new complexes, he said: "These new Defence office complexes will now make it feasible for our armies to operate in better working conditions with all modern amenities."</p>

<p>"The construction of the Defence Offices Complexes completed within 12 months amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This provided employment to hundreds of labourers during the challenging pandemic period."</p>

<p>He also hoped that the construction of the new Parliament building will be completed in the time frame given earlier.</p>

<p>Speaking at the same event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: "Previous buildings were in a tattered state, affected working conditions of our officers, optimum utilisation of space was not done, which is why this complex has been brought up. Over 7,000 workers can be accommodated in good working conditions."</p>

<p>The new Defence Office Complexes are state-of-the-art and energy-efficient, with comprehensive security management measures. One of the defining features of these buildings is the use of new and sustainable construction technology called LGSF (Light gauge steel frame), which reduced construction time from 24-30 months in the case of conventional RCC construction. The buildings utilize resource-efficient green technology and promote environment-friendly.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (September 16) inaugurated Defence Offices Complexes at Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Africa Avenue in New Delhi. The new Defence Offices Complexes will accommodate around 7,000 officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy and Air Force.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (September 16) inaugurated Defence Offices Complexes at Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Africa Avenue in New Delhi. The new Defence Offices Complexes will accommodate around 7,000 officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, including the Army, Navy and Air Force. The buildings will provide modern, secure and functional working spaces. An Integrated Command and Control Centre has been established for managing building operations, while also catering to the end to end safety and surveillance of both the buildings. During his address at the time of inauguration, PM Modi slammed critics of the Central Vista project that involves major overhaul of Indian capital's Lutyens area. Modi said that those criticising the project never mentioned that Defence Offices Complexes are also a part of the project as that would expose their 'falsity', adding that modern infrastructure is pertinent for economic development of the country. "The people who were criticising the Central Vista project never mentioned the Defence Offices Complexes, which is also part of the Centra Vista... They knew their falsity would be exposed," he said. "When we are focusing on ease of living and ease of doing business, modern infrastructure plays an equally important role. This is the idea behind the work that is being done in the development of the Central Vista," PM Modi said. Mentioning the importance of the new complexes, he said: "These new Defence office complexes will now make it feasible for our armies to operate in better working conditions with all modern amenities." "The construction of the Defence Offices Complexes completed within 12 months amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This provided employment to hundreds of labourers during the challenging pandemic period." He also hoped that the construction of the new Parliament building will be completed in the time frame given earlier. Speaking at the same event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: "Previous buildings were in a tattered state, affected working conditions of our officers, optimum utilisation of space was not done, which is why this complex has been brought up. Over 7,000 workers can be accommodated in good working conditions." The new Defence Office Complexes are state-of-the-art and energy-efficient, with comprehensive security management measures. One of the defining features of these buildings is the use of new and sustainable construction technology called LGSF (Light gauge steel frame), which reduced construction time from 24-30 months in the case of conventional RCC construction. The buildings utilize resource-efficient green technology and promote environment-friendly. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi inaugurates new defence offices, slams Central Vista critics

<p>&nbsp;India will be holding its first-ever Global Buddhist Conference in November, which is likely to become an annual feature.</p>

<p>The event is being planned by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) from November 19 to 20 at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara campus in India’s northern Bihar’s state of Nalanda.</p>

<p>The conference will be organised under the overall framework of the flagship event of the Ministry of Tourism. Eminent scholars from prominent Buddhist institutions in India and abroad will participate in the event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Making the announcement, Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, president of the ICCR, said, “Buddhism is an essential ingredient of the idea of India. Therefore, the predominance of India in the idea of Buddhism and predominance of Buddhism in the idea of India is being underscored in an academic manner.”</p>

<p>In the run-up to the event, four regional conferences will be organised in Indian states—Telangana, Saranath in northern Uttar Pradesh (UP), Sikkim’s Gangtok and Dharamshala in Dehradun, and abroad—Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Cambodia.</p>

<p>Dinesh K Patnaik, director-general, ICCR, explained, “This is an academic conference. The whole idea is how to make India the centre of Buddhism. It is not about tourism, but about making it the centre of Buddhist activities, like academic, cultural, seminars. We are also going to have a depository of the manuscript.”</p>

<p>The ICCR has also announced an award for the promotion of Buddhist studies which will be given on November 21 in Delhi by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>The award carries a cash reward of $20,000. a plaque and a gold-plated medallion. The award is part of a comprehensive action plan for activities related to Buddhism. India has been presenting awards for the promotion of Sanskrit and Indology.</p>

<p>Buddhism’s India link is a well-known and much-celebrated one. Buddha, the founder of the religion, who has millions of followers across the globe, obtained his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, gave his first sermon in Sarnath, and died in Kushinagar, UP.</p>

<p>India has been the home to the highest aces of learning of Buddhist studies including Nalanda, Vikramshila universities, and the country gets many pilgrims across the globe every year.</p>


India will be holding its first-ever Global Buddhist Conference in November, which is likely to become an annual feature. The event is being planned by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) from November 19 to 20 at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara campus in India’s northern Bihar’s state of Nalanda.

India will be holding its first-ever Global Buddhist Conference in November, which is likely to become an annual feature. The event is being planned by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) from November 19 to 20 at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara campus in India’s northern Bihar’s state of Nalanda. The conference will be organised under the overall framework of the flagship event of the Ministry of Tourism. Eminent scholars from prominent Buddhist institutions in India and abroad will participate in the event. Making the announcement, Vinay Sahasrabuddhe, president of the ICCR, said, “Buddhism is an essential ingredient of the idea of India. Therefore, the predominance of India in the idea of Buddhism and predominance of Buddhism in the idea of India is being underscored in an academic manner.” In the run-up to the event, four regional conferences will be organised in Indian states—Telangana, Saranath in northern Uttar Pradesh (UP), Sikkim’s Gangtok and Dharamshala in Dehradun, and abroad—Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Cambodia. Dinesh K Patnaik, director-general, ICCR, explained, “This is an academic conference. The whole idea is how to make India the centre of Buddhism. It is not about tourism, but about making it the centre of Buddhist activities, like academic, cultural, seminars. We are also going to have a depository of the manuscript.” The ICCR has also announced an award for the promotion of Buddhist studies which will be given on November 21 in Delhi by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The award carries a cash reward of $20,000. a plaque and a gold-plated medallion. The award is part of a comprehensive action plan for activities related to Buddhism. India has been presenting awards for the promotion of Sanskrit and Indology. Buddhism’s India link is a well-known and much-celebrated one. Buddha, the founder of the religion, who has millions of followers across the globe, obtained his enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, gave his first sermon in Sarnath, and died in Kushinagar, UP. India has been the home to the highest aces of learning of Buddhist studies including Nalanda, Vikramshila universities, and the country gets many pilgrims across the globe every year.

India to hold Global Buddhist Conference in November; PM to give award on Buddhist studies

<p>India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday named party lawmaker Bhupendra Patel as the next Chief Minister of western Gujarat state— the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>59-year-old Patel was unanimously elected BJP legislature party leader in Gandhinagar city.</p>

<p>His name was proposed by Vijay Rupani who had resigned from the CM post on Saturday, surprising many.</p>

<p>The new leader is expected to meet the state governor, Acharya Devvrat, to stake claim to form the government.</p>

<p>Patel won the 2017 Gujarat Legislative Assembly elections from Ahmedabad`s Ghatlodia constituency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read</strong> |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/western-indian-state-of-gujarats-chief-minister-vijay-rupani-resigns-412357">Western Indian state of Gujarat’s Chief Minister Vijay Rupani resigns</a></p>

<p>He holds a diploma in civil engineering and is considered close to former CM Anandiben Patel, who won from the seat in 2012 polls.</p>

<p>Earlier, he served as a municipal councillor in Ahmedabad. He has been the chairman of Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) and used to head the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation standing committee.&nbsp;Bhupendra Patel belongs to the influential Patel community.</p>

<p><strong>Watch</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/probe-report-on-crash-of-the-air-india-flight-in-keralas-kozhikode-out-412575/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The latest development comes as the elections to the 182-member Gujarat Assembly are due in December 2022.</p>

<p>Rupani, the fourth chief minister to demit office in BJP-ruled states during the coronavirus pandemic, was sworn in as chief minister, his second stint as CM in December 2017.</p>

<p>Rupani, who completed five years in office on August 7 this year, first became the chief minister on August 7, 2016, following the resignation of incumbent Anandiben Patel, and continued in the office after the BJP's victory in the 2017 Assembly elections.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday named party lawmaker Bhupendra Patel as the next Chief Minister of western Gujarat state— the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday named party lawmaker Bhupendra Patel as the next Chief Minister of western Gujarat state— the home state of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 59-year-old Patel was unanimously elected BJP legislature party leader in Gandhinagar city. His name was proposed by Vijay Rupani who had resigned from the CM post on Saturday, surprising many. The new leader is expected to meet the state governor, Acharya Devvrat, to stake claim to form the government. Patel won the 2017 Gujarat Legislative Assembly elections from Ahmedabad`s Ghatlodia constituency. Also read | Western Indian state of Gujarat’s Chief Minister Vijay Rupani resigns He holds a diploma in civil engineering and is considered close to former CM Anandiben Patel, who won from the seat in 2012 polls. Earlier, he served as a municipal councillor in Ahmedabad. He has been the chairman of Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA) and used to head the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation standing committee. Bhupendra Patel belongs to the influential Patel community. Watch The latest development comes as the elections to the 182-member Gujarat Assembly are due in December 2022. Rupani, the fourth chief minister to demit office in BJP-ruled states during the coronavirus pandemic, was sworn in as chief minister, his second stint as CM in December 2017. Rupani, who completed five years in office on August 7 this year, first became the chief minister on August 7, 2016, following the resignation of incumbent Anandiben Patel, and continued in the office after the BJP's victory in the 2017 Assembly elections. (With inputs from agencies)

India’s Gujarat state gets new CM ahead of crucial elections next year

<p>India and Russia will hold consultations in Delhi on Wednesday on the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, a direct outcome of the talks&nbsp;held between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 24.</p>

<p>In the 45-minute-long conversation, both the leaders had decided to form a “permanent bilateral channel” for consultations on Afghanistan.</p>

<p>The Wednesday talks would be led by Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and the visiting Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation General Nikolai&nbsp;Patrushev.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A release by the Ministry of External Affairs said, “At the invitation of National Security Adviser Ajit K Doval, the Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, General Nikolay Patrushev is visiting India for high-level India-Russia inter-governmental consultations on Afghanistan from 7-8 September 2021.”</p>

<p>The meeting comes hours after the Taliban announced the name of new leaders of its government. Mullah Hassan Akhund was named as the Prime Minister and he will have two deputies—Mullah Baradar and Mawlavi Hannafi. Sirajuddin Haqqani was named as the interior minister and Amir Khan Muttaqi was chosen as the foreign minister.</p>

<p>Notably, all of them are on the UN terror list, while Sirajuddin Haqqani carries a bounty of $5 million announced by the FBI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both India and Russia view Afghanistan as a security challenge. India believes that a turmoil in Afghanistan may pave way for Pakistan-based terror groups to emerge, and for&nbsp;Russia, a spillover of the crisis may have an impact on the former Soviet countries like Uzbekistan, Tajikistan.</p>

<p>Moreover, Modi and Putin are also expected to meet during the BRICS virtual summit on Thursday, hosted by New Delhi.</p>

<p>Apart from that, Putin is expected to visit India later this month for the much-awaited annual India-Russia bilateral summit and deliver the first units of the S-400 Air Defence system.</p>


India and Russia will hold consultations in Delhi on Wednesday on the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, a direct outcome of the talks held between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 24.

India and Russia will hold consultations in Delhi on Wednesday on the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, a direct outcome of the talks held between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin on August 24. In the 45-minute-long conversation, both the leaders had decided to form a “permanent bilateral channel” for consultations on Afghanistan. The Wednesday talks would be led by Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and the visiting Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation General Nikolai Patrushev. A release by the Ministry of External Affairs said, “At the invitation of National Security Adviser Ajit K Doval, the Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, General Nikolay Patrushev is visiting India for high-level India-Russia inter-governmental consultations on Afghanistan from 7-8 September 2021.” The meeting comes hours after the Taliban announced the name of new leaders of its government. Mullah Hassan Akhund was named as the Prime Minister and he will have two deputies—Mullah Baradar and Mawlavi Hannafi. Sirajuddin Haqqani was named as the interior minister and Amir Khan Muttaqi was chosen as the foreign minister. Notably, all of them are on the UN terror list, while Sirajuddin Haqqani carries a bounty of $5 million announced by the FBI. Both India and Russia view Afghanistan as a security challenge. India believes that a turmoil in Afghanistan may pave way for Pakistan-based terror groups to emerge, and for Russia, a spillover of the crisis may have an impact on the former Soviet countries like Uzbekistan, Tajikistan. Moreover, Modi and Putin are also expected to meet during the BRICS virtual summit on Thursday, hosted by New Delhi. Apart from that, Putin is expected to visit India later this month for the much-awaited annual India-Russia bilateral summit and deliver the first units of the S-400 Air Defence system.

India, Russia to hold consultations on Afghanistan on Sept 8 in Delhi

<p>Amid still unfolding situation in Afghanistan India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval&nbsp;met his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev on Wednesday (September 8) in New Delhi. The meet had&nbsp;been scheduled just one day&nbsp;the Taliban announced its government on Tuesday. The government has a number of hardliners and does not give representation to any woman</p>

<p>ANI quoted sources to say that Patrushev will also meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.</p>

<p>The high-level consultations will reflect on the situation in Afghanistan after US withdrawal.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-judge-taliban-by-its-actions-says-us-on-new-government-411468">We will judge Taliban by its actions, says US on new government</a></strong></p>

<p>Both NSA`s will also review activities of terrorist groups including Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, threats from drugs, the role of regional countries and details of Indo-Russia cooperation to meet current and future threats and measures to assist Afghanistan, said the sources.</p>

<p>Earlier, Doval hosted the 11th Meeting of the BRICS High Representatives Responsible for National Security through video conferencing on August 31. His Russian counterpart was also present in the meeting.</p>

<p>India raised the issue of cross-border terrorism and activities of groups such as the Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed at the meeting of BRICS representatives responsible for national security and said these groups "enjoy state support" and threaten peace and security.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid still unfolding situation in Afghanistan India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev on Wednesday (September 8) in New Delhi.

Amid still unfolding situation in Afghanistan India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev on Wednesday (September 8) in New Delhi. The meet had been scheduled just one day the Taliban announced its government on Tuesday. The government has a number of hardliners and does not give representation to any woman ANI quoted sources to say that Patrushev will also meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The high-level consultations will reflect on the situation in Afghanistan after US withdrawal. Also Read | We will judge Taliban by its actions, says US on new government Both NSA`s will also review activities of terrorist groups including Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, threats from drugs, the role of regional countries and details of Indo-Russia cooperation to meet current and future threats and measures to assist Afghanistan, said the sources. Earlier, Doval hosted the 11th Meeting of the BRICS High Representatives Responsible for National Security through video conferencing on August 31. His Russian counterpart was also present in the meeting. India raised the issue of cross-border terrorism and activities of groups such as the Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed at the meeting of BRICS representatives responsible for national security and said these groups "enjoy state support" and threaten peace and security. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian NSA Ajit Doval meets Russian counterpart over Afghanistan

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi penned a special note for the Indian contingent at the stereotype-defying Tokyo Paralympic Games 2020 after the spectacular event came to an end with India winning historic 19 medals, including five gold, eight silver, six bronze.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is India's best-ever Paralympics medal haul. With five medals, the shooting contingent emerged as the biggest contributor, followed by high jump and badminton with four each.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi wrote, "In the history of Indian sports, the Tokyo #Paralympics will always have a special place. The games will remain etched in the memory of every Indian and will motivate generations of athletes to pursue sports. Every member of our contingent is a champion and source of inspiration."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-mirabai-chanu-to-avani-lekhara-5-women-olympians-who-have-made-a-lasting-impact-with-glittering-performances-410823">From Mirabai Chanu to Avani Lekhara: 5 women Olympians who have made a lasting impact with glittering performances</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Like I had said earlier, the people of Japan, particularly Tokyo and the Japanese Government, must be lauded for their exceptional hospitality, eye for detail and spreading the much needed message of resilience and togetherness through these Olympics.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1434460555415224322?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The historic number of medals India won has filled our hearts with joy. I would like to appreciate the coaches, support staff and families of our athletes for their constant support to the players. We hope to build on our successes to ensure greater participation in sports," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi further wrote, "Like I had said earlier, the people of Japan, particularly Tokyo and the Japanese Government, must be lauded for their exceptional hospitality, eye for detail and spreading the much needed message of resilience and togetherness through these Olympics."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-neeraj-chopra-to-krishna-nagar-olympic-and-paralympic-gold-diggers-make-india-happy-410895">From Neeraj Chopra to Krishna Nagar: Olympic and Paralympic 'gold diggers' make India happy</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇮🇳 at Tokyo <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Paralympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Paralympics</a><br />
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✅ Highest Haul of 1️⃣9️⃣🏅<br />
✅ Ranked 2️⃣4️⃣th Highest overall ranking<br />
✅ 1️⃣ New 🌏 Record Set &amp; 1️⃣ equalled<br />
✅ 2️⃣ New Paralympics Records Set<br />
✅ 2️⃣ New Asian Records Set<br />
✅ 1st ever 2️⃣🥇in Shooting<br />
✅ 1st ever🥈in Table Tennis<br />
✅ 1st ever🥉in Archery<br />
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1/3 <a href="https://t.co/fhQT3zCT7U">pic.twitter.com/fhQT3zCT7U</a></p>
— SAI Media (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1434448767395119106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>The medal winners and participants were an inspiration but there were some historic firsts. For example, Bhavina Patel became the first Indian table tennis player to win a Paralympic medal, Harvinder Singh's medal in archery was also exemplary, shooter Avani Lekhara stood out as she became the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi penned a special note for the Indian contingent at the stereotype-defying Tokyo Paralympic Games 2020 after the spectacular event came to an end with India winning historic 19 medals, including five gold, eight silver, six bronze.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi penned a special note for the Indian contingent at the stereotype-defying Tokyo Paralympic Games 2020 after the spectacular event came to an end with India winning historic 19 medals, including five gold, eight silver, six bronze. This is India's best-ever Paralympics medal haul. With five medals, the shooting contingent emerged as the biggest contributor, followed by high jump and badminton with four each. Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi wrote, "In the history of Indian sports, the Tokyo #Paralympics will always have a special place. The games will remain etched in the memory of every Indian and will motivate generations of athletes to pursue sports. Every member of our contingent is a champion and source of inspiration." ALSO READ | From Mirabai Chanu to Avani Lekhara: 5 women Olympians who have made a lasting impact with glittering performances Like I had said earlier, the people of Japan, particularly Tokyo and the Japanese Government, must be lauded for their exceptional hospitality, eye for detail and spreading the much needed message of resilience and togetherness through these Olympics. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 5, 2021 × "The historic number of medals India won has filled our hearts with joy. I would like to appreciate the coaches, support staff and families of our athletes for their constant support to the players. We hope to build on our successes to ensure greater participation in sports," he added. PM Modi further wrote, "Like I had said earlier, the people of Japan, particularly Tokyo and the Japanese Government, must be lauded for their exceptional hospitality, eye for detail and spreading the much needed message of resilience and togetherness through these Olympics." ALSO READ | From Neeraj Chopra to Krishna Nagar: Olympic and Paralympic 'gold diggers' make India happy 🇮🇳 at Tokyo #Paralympics ✅ Highest Haul of 1️⃣9️⃣🏅 ✅ Ranked 2️⃣4️⃣th Highest overall ranking ✅ 1️⃣ New 🌏 Record Set & 1️⃣ equalled ✅ 2️⃣ New Paralympics Records Set ✅ 2️⃣ New Asian Records Set ✅ 1st ever 2️⃣🥇in Shooting ✅ 1st ever🥈in Table Tennis ✅ 1st ever🥉in Archery 1/3 pic.twitter.com/fhQT3zCT7U — SAI Media (@Media_SAI) September 5, 2021 × The medal winners and participants were an inspiration but there were some historic firsts. For example, Bhavina Patel became the first Indian table tennis player to win a Paralympic medal, Harvinder Singh's medal in archery was also exemplary, shooter Avani Lekhara stood out as she became the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold medal.

'Every member is a champion and source of inspiration': PM Modi hails Indian contingent at Tokyo Paralympics

<p>A visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US later this month is likely to depend on the finality over hosting of the first in-person summit of the Quad leaders by the Biden administration, people familiar with the development said on Saturday.</p>

<p>The tentative schedule explored for the visit was between September 22-27 and the preparations were focused on three segments -- Modi's address at the UN General Assembly in New York, participation at the proposed Quad summit in Washington and a bilateral meeting with President Joe Biden, they said.</p>

<p>However, the sudden decision by Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga to step down by the end of September triggered uncertainty over the US hosting of the in-person Quad summit as</p>

<p>Tokyo is learnt to have requested for a hybrid format for the talks.</p>

<p>The people cited above said there was no final decision yet on the proposed visit to the US by Modi in view of the uncertainty over the holding of the Quad summit among the leaders of the US, India, Japan and Australia in Washington.</p>

<p>Suga, who became prime minister of Japan a year ago after Shinzo Abe stepped down, announced on Friday that he will not seek re-election as leader of the Liberal Democrat Party (LDP) at the end of September.</p>

<p>His announcement and the political turmoil in Tokyo have also thrown into doubt the holding of the in-person India-Japan summit for the third consecutive year.</p>

<p>The annual summit between Modi and his then Japanese counterpart Abe was cancelled in December 2019 in Guwahati in the wake of massive protests rocking the Assam city over the amended citizenship law.</p>

<p>In 2020, the summit could not be held due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>The people cited above said India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US, which if it takes place, will be the first one after Biden took charge of the US in January.</p>

<p>It is learnt that the issue figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent meetings in Washington.</p>

<p>The Biden administration has put cooperation with India a key aspect of its overall foreign policy priorities on the Indo-Pacific, a region that has witnessed growing Chinese military assertiveness.</p>

<p>The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping.</p>

<p>In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending an apparent message to China.</p>

<p>The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston.</p>

<p>If Modi's visit takes place, then it could signal a new phase in the two-way strategic engagement between India and the US.</p>

<p>The Afghan crisis as well as developments in the Indo-Pacific region could be the major focus areas for discussion between the two sides. US Secretary of state Antony Blinken paid a two-day visit to India in July. Before that, US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin had paid a three-day visit to New Delhi in March.&nbsp;</p>


A visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US later this month is likely to depend on the finality over hosting of the first in-person summit of the Quad leaders by the Biden administration, people familiar with the development said on Saturday.

A visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the US later this month is likely to depend on the finality over hosting of the first in-person summit of the Quad leaders by the Biden administration, people familiar with the development said on Saturday. The tentative schedule explored for the visit was between September 22-27 and the preparations were focused on three segments -- Modi's address at the UN General Assembly in New York, participation at the proposed Quad summit in Washington and a bilateral meeting with President Joe Biden, they said. However, the sudden decision by Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga to step down by the end of September triggered uncertainty over the US hosting of the in-person Quad summit as Tokyo is learnt to have requested for a hybrid format for the talks. The people cited above said there was no final decision yet on the proposed visit to the US by Modi in view of the uncertainty over the holding of the Quad summit among the leaders of the US, India, Japan and Australia in Washington. Suga, who became prime minister of Japan a year ago after Shinzo Abe stepped down, announced on Friday that he will not seek re-election as leader of the Liberal Democrat Party (LDP) at the end of September. His announcement and the political turmoil in Tokyo have also thrown into doubt the holding of the in-person India-Japan summit for the third consecutive year. The annual summit between Modi and his then Japanese counterpart Abe was cancelled in December 2019 in Guwahati in the wake of massive protests rocking the Assam city over the amended citizenship law. In 2020, the summit could not be held due to the coronavirus pandemic. The people cited above said India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US, which if it takes place, will be the first one after Biden took charge of the US in January. It is learnt that the issue figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent meetings in Washington. The Biden administration has put cooperation with India a key aspect of its overall foreign policy priorities on the Indo-Pacific, a region that has witnessed growing Chinese military assertiveness. The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping. In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending an apparent message to China. The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston. If Modi's visit takes place, then it could signal a new phase in the two-way strategic engagement between India and the US. The Afghan crisis as well as developments in the Indo-Pacific region could be the major focus areas for discussion between the two sides. US Secretary of state Antony Blinken paid a two-day visit to India in July. Before that, US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin had paid a three-day visit to New Delhi in March.

PM Modi likely to visit the US in late September

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will&nbsp;attend&nbsp;the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO heads of state summit virtually.</p>

<p>The summit will take place from September 16&nbsp;to 17&nbsp;in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe and will be in hybrid mode.</p>

<p>It is expected that&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping will also be present virtually. Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Russian President Putin, and other central Asian countries will be present in person.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tajikistan is chair of the grouping which has eight&nbsp;member states: Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and four&nbsp;central Asian countries, Tajikistan, &nbsp;Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting assumes significance since it happens in the backdrop of the Afghanistan crisis, which saw the American forces leaving the country after 20 years and the return of the Taliban.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last two&nbsp;months have seen a number of meetings of SCO foreign, defence, and National security advisors meeting in Dushanbe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, speaking to Khovar National News Agency, President Rahmon pointing out the key focus areas said, "the main task is to strengthen the potential and international position of our organization" and amid the covid pandemic "it is extremely important to build up trade and economic cooperation within the SCO space."&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if there will be any Afghan participation, given Afghanistan is an observer member country of the grouping, and ideally, if a change of regime had not happened in Kabul, Ashraf Ghani would have represented the country.</p>

<p>Ghani had given confirmation of his presence, sources told WION. Ashraf Ghani, President of Afghanistan had left the country on&nbsp;August 15 after the national capital Kabul fell to the Taliban. A Taliban delegation's presence at the multilateral event could see further movement towards the recognition of the group in Kabul.</p>

<p>SCO as a grouping occupies 60 per cent of the Eurasian continent, which is over 34 million square kilometers on which three&nbsp;billion people,&nbsp;&nbsp;that is almost half of the world's population.</p>

<p>Mongolia, Belarus, Afghanistan, and Iran are its observers in the grouping, while, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Cambodia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka received dialogue partner status.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO heads of state summit virtually. The summit will take place from September 16 to 17 in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe and will be in hybrid mode.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO heads of state summit virtually. The summit will take place from September 16 to 17 in Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe and will be in hybrid mode. It is expected that Chinese President Xi Jinping will also be present virtually. Meanwhile, Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Russian President Putin, and other central Asian countries will be present in person. Tajikistan is chair of the grouping which has eight member states: Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and four central Asian countries, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan. The meeting assumes significance since it happens in the backdrop of the Afghanistan crisis, which saw the American forces leaving the country after 20 years and the return of the Taliban. The last two months have seen a number of meetings of SCO foreign, defence, and National security advisors meeting in Dushanbe. Earlier, speaking to Khovar National News Agency, President Rahmon pointing out the key focus areas said, "the main task is to strengthen the potential and international position of our organization" and amid the covid pandemic "it is extremely important to build up trade and economic cooperation within the SCO space." It will be interesting to see if there will be any Afghan participation, given Afghanistan is an observer member country of the grouping, and ideally, if a change of regime had not happened in Kabul, Ashraf Ghani would have represented the country. Ghani had given confirmation of his presence, sources told WION. Ashraf Ghani, President of Afghanistan had left the country on August 15 after the national capital Kabul fell to the Taliban. A Taliban delegation's presence at the multilateral event could see further movement towards the recognition of the group in Kabul. SCO as a grouping occupies 60 per cent of the Eurasian continent, which is over 34 million square kilometers on which three billion people, that is almost half of the world's population. Mongolia, Belarus, Afghanistan, and Iran are its observers in the grouping, while, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Cambodia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka received dialogue partner status.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend SCO summit virtually

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed India's achievement of reaching a milestone in the Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination drive as the country has administered more than 10 million vaccine doses in a single day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The "momentous feat" was achieved on Friday (August 27) as India crossed&nbsp;its previous daily record of 9.2 million.</p>

<p>Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi wrote, "Record vaccination numbers today! Crossing 1 crore is a momentous feat. Kudos to those getting vaccinated and those making the vaccination drive a success."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-capital-reopens-schools-for-classes-ix-to-xii-from-september-1-408959">Indian Capital reopens schools for classes IX to XII from September 1</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Record vaccination numbers today!<br />
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Crossing 1 crore is a momentous feat. Kudos to those getting vaccinated and those making the vaccination drive a success.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1431297818161909760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Chief of the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation in India (NTAGI) Dr NK Arora also hailed the achievement and said that it is a matter of pride for the Indian health system and it will go down in the history of COVID-19 immunisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking to ANI, Dr NK Arora said: "Almost four months ago, we knew that India has the capacity to deliver anywhere between 10 and 12 million doses in a single day. And today we have achieved that milestone, I think this will go down in the history of COVID immunization that even with 63,000 immunisation centres, we are able to deliver one crore plus doses in a single day."</p>

<p>"There are a large number of countries in this world, which have population less than 10 million, for example, Switzerland, a lot of Scandinavian countries. We have the capacity to immunise a whole country in a day," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/india-records-46759-covid-19-cases-509-deaths-408954" hreflang="en">India records 46,759 COVID-19 cases, 509 deaths</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;World Business Watch: Indian govt notifies new drone rules</strong></p>

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<p>Praising the frontline workers, Arora said, "My compliments to all the frontline workers, vaccinators, nurses, doctors, and healthcare providers across the country, including the private sector for achieving this milestone."</p>

<p>As experts have warned of another COVID-19 wave expected to hit the country in the coming months, India has been working to bolster its defences for the predicted surge in cases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government had aimed to vaccinate about 1.1 billion adults by the end of the year but they have faced some challenges like vaccine shortages in some parts, hesitancy, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is currently administering three vaccines — the Oxford-AstraZeneca jab, known locally as Covishield, Covaxin by Indian firm Bharat Biotech and the Russian-made Sputnik V.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed India's achievement of reaching a milestone in the Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination drive as the country has administered more than 10 million vaccine doses in a single day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed India's achievement of reaching a milestone in the Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination drive as the country has administered more than 10 million vaccine doses in a single day. The "momentous feat" was achieved on Friday (August 27) as India crossed its previous daily record of 9.2 million. Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi wrote, "Record vaccination numbers today! Crossing 1 crore is a momentous feat. Kudos to those getting vaccinated and those making the vaccination drive a success." ALSO READ | Indian Capital reopens schools for classes IX to XII from September 1 Record vaccination numbers today! Crossing 1 crore is a momentous feat. Kudos to those getting vaccinated and those making the vaccination drive a success. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 27, 2021 × Chief of the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation in India (NTAGI) Dr NK Arora also hailed the achievement and said that it is a matter of pride for the Indian health system and it will go down in the history of COVID-19 immunisation. While speaking to ANI, Dr NK Arora said: "Almost four months ago, we knew that India has the capacity to deliver anywhere between 10 and 12 million doses in a single day. And today we have achieved that milestone, I think this will go down in the history of COVID immunization that even with 63,000 immunisation centres, we are able to deliver one crore plus doses in a single day." "There are a large number of countries in this world, which have population less than 10 million, for example, Switzerland, a lot of Scandinavian countries. We have the capacity to immunise a whole country in a day," he added. Also Read: India records 46,759 COVID-19 cases, 509 deaths Watch: World Business Watch: Indian govt notifies new drone rules × Praising the frontline workers, Arora said, "My compliments to all the frontline workers, vaccinators, nurses, doctors, and healthcare providers across the country, including the private sector for achieving this milestone." As experts have warned of another COVID-19 wave expected to hit the country in the coming months, India has been working to bolster its defences for the predicted surge in cases. The government had aimed to vaccinate about 1.1 billion adults by the end of the year but they have faced some challenges like vaccine shortages in some parts, hesitancy, etc. India is currently administering three vaccines — the Oxford-AstraZeneca jab, known locally as Covishield, Covaxin by Indian firm Bharat Biotech and the Russian-made Sputnik V.

'Momentous feat': PM Modi hails India's 10 million COVID-19 vaccine doses in single day

<p>It looks like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled his promise of eating ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu when he hosted some of the Indian athletes at his residence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-time Olympic medallist was spotted with a bowl of ice cream when the Indian Tokyo Olympics contingent went to PM Modi's official residence to have breakfast with him on Monday (August 16).&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Sindhu had won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Games, her father PV Ramana spoke to ANI and apprised them of Sindhu's plans to eat ice cream with the Indian Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sports/olympics-as-pv-sindhu-wins-bronze-for-india-a-look-at-her-outstanding-journey-at-tokyo-2020-bronze-medal-402245">Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>The reference to ice cream came in limelight, as on July 13th, PM Modi had interacted with PV Sindhu and her parents virtually over preparation for Tokyo Olympics and asked them about the shuttler's diet. He also asked whether Sindhu was allowed to have what she wanted to eat including her favourite ice cream.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Sindhu said that she has to control her diet, keeping in mind the preparation, PM Modi promised that he would eat ice cream with the athlete after her competition concluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-75th-independence-day-from-olympics-to-cricket-when-free-india-shined-in-the-world-of-sports-404891" hreflang="en">India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports</a></p>

<p>Now, in the pictures shared by Sindhu, she can be seen interacting with PM Modi with a bowl of ice cream in her hand.</p>

<p>In the caption, Sindhu wrote, "It was an absolute honour to have met with our Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji. I’m so grateful for all the help he has given to all of us athletes. I’m so excited to have finally got the chance to talk over some ice cream and also to have gifted him my racket as a small token of appreciation."</p>

<p><strong>See some of the pictures here:</strong></p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSpMQDooOKq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Sindhu Pv (@pvsindhu1)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Watch PM Modi's interaction with Sindhu and her parents:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Being an athlete requires a rigorous schedule and hardwork. I asked <a href="https://twitter.com/Pvsindhu1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Pvsindhu1</a> about her love for ice-cream and also interacted with her parents. <a href="https://t.co/Hlapc8VJhp">pic.twitter.com/Hlapc8VJhp</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1414966949084209155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-neeraj-chopras-javelin-throw-that-won-india-its-first-ever-athletics-gold-watch-403719">Neeraj Chopra's throw that won India its first-ever athletics gold - WATCH</a></p>

<p>Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was also there. He became India's first-ever gold medallist in track and field, leading India to its best-ever haul in the Olympics with seven medals — a gold, two silvers and four bronze medals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mirabai Chanu, Bajrang Punia, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya and Indian Men's hockey team were also present.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi in his Independence Day speech applauded the Indian Olympic athletes and said the country was proud of them for bringing glory to the nation and that their feat has inspired future generations.</p>

<p>Well, Sindhu said that it's not just ice cream, she wishes to do a lot more. "Not just ice cream, I want to do a lot more. I want to spend time with my family. Maybe go on a holiday. And just relax for a while," said Sindhu in an exclusive chat with WION's&nbsp;Digvijay Singh Deo.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch her exclusive interview here:</strong></p>

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It looks like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled his promise of eating ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu when he hosted some of the Indian athletes at his residence.

It looks like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has fulfilled his promise of eating ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu when he hosted some of the Indian athletes at his residence. The two-time Olympic medallist was spotted with a bowl of ice cream when the Indian Tokyo Olympics contingent went to PM Modi's official residence to have breakfast with him on Monday (August 16). After Sindhu had won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Games, her father PV Ramana spoke to ANI and apprised them of Sindhu's plans to eat ice cream with the Indian Prime Minister. IN PICS | Olympics: As PV Sindhu wins bronze for India, a look at her outstanding journey at Tokyo 2020 The reference to ice cream came in limelight, as on July 13th, PM Modi had interacted with PV Sindhu and her parents virtually over preparation for Tokyo Olympics and asked them about the shuttler's diet. He also asked whether Sindhu was allowed to have what she wanted to eat including her favourite ice cream. When Sindhu said that she has to control her diet, keeping in mind the preparation, PM Modi promised that he would eat ice cream with the athlete after her competition concluded. IN PICS: India Independence - From Olympics to Cricket: When 'free India' shined in the world of Sports Now, in the pictures shared by Sindhu, she can be seen interacting with PM Modi with a bowl of ice cream in her hand. In the caption, Sindhu wrote, "It was an absolute honour to have met with our Hon’ble PM @narendramodi ji. I’m so grateful for all the help he has given to all of us athletes. I’m so excited to have finally got the chance to talk over some ice cream and also to have gifted him my racket as a small token of appreciation." See some of the pictures here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sindhu Pv (@pvsindhu1) × Watch PM Modi's interaction with Sindhu and her parents: Being an athlete requires a rigorous schedule and hardwork. I asked @Pvsindhu1 about her love for ice-cream and also interacted with her parents. pic.twitter.com/Hlapc8VJhp — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2021 × ALSO READ: Neeraj Chopra's throw that won India its first-ever athletics gold - WATCH Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was also there. He became India's first-ever gold medallist in track and field, leading India to its best-ever haul in the Olympics with seven medals — a gold, two silvers and four bronze medals. Mirabai Chanu, Bajrang Punia, boxer Lovlina Borgohain, wrestler Ravi Kumar Dahiya and Indian Men's hockey team were also present. PM Modi in his Independence Day speech applauded the Indian Olympic athletes and said the country was proud of them for bringing glory to the nation and that their feat has inspired future generations. Well, Sindhu said that it's not just ice cream, she wishes to do a lot more. "Not just ice cream, I want to do a lot more. I want to spend time with my family. Maybe go on a holiday. And just relax for a while," said Sindhu in an exclusive chat with WION's Digvijay Singh Deo. Watch her exclusive interview here: ×

PM Narendra Modi fulfils promise, has ice cream with badminton star PV Sindhu - see pics

<p>United States President Joe Biden hailed the India-US partnership as India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). Biden said that partnership between the nations is "more important than ever" and added that together the countries must show the world that "two great and diverse democracies" can deliver for people everywhere.</p>

<p>"In this moment of great challenges and opportunities, the partnership between India and the United States is more important than ever. Together, we must show the world that our two great and diverse democracies can deliver for people everywhere," read a statement published by the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-necessary-to-make-full-use-of-indias-potential-says-pm-modi-405470">Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day. He remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The White House's statement added, "On this day, August 15, 1947, India achieved its long journey toward independence, guided by Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth and non-violence."</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pm-narendra-modi-remembers-freedom-fighters-honours-covid-19-warriors-and-olympians-during-independence-day-address-405485">PM Narendra Modi remembers freedom fighters, honours COVID-19 warriors and Olympians during Independence Day address</a></strong></p>

<p>"Today, that foundational commitment to respecting the will of the people through democracy continues to inspire the world and is the basis of the special bond between our two nations," it further added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Over the decades, the ties between our people, including a vibrant community of more than four million Indian-Americans, have sustained and strengthened our partnership," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch PM Modi's address here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. <a href="https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs">https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1426728344867860485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"The friendship between our nations will continue to flourish and grow. I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day," the statement by White House oncluded.&nbsp;</p>


United States President Joe Biden hailed the India-US partnership as India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). Biden said that partnership between the nations is "more important than ever" and added that together the countries must show the world that "two great and diverse democracies" can deliver for people everywhere.

United States President Joe Biden hailed the India-US partnership as India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). Biden said that partnership between the nations is "more important than ever" and added that together the countries must show the world that "two great and diverse democracies" can deliver for people everywhere. "In this moment of great challenges and opportunities, the partnership between India and the United States is more important than ever. Together, we must show the world that our two great and diverse democracies can deliver for people everywhere," read a statement published by the White House. ALSO READ | Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day. He remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors. The White House's statement added, "On this day, August 15, 1947, India achieved its long journey toward independence, guided by Mahatma Gandhi’s message of truth and non-violence." IN PICS | PM Narendra Modi remembers freedom fighters, honours COVID-19 warriors and Olympians during Independence Day address "Today, that foundational commitment to respecting the will of the people through democracy continues to inspire the world and is the basis of the special bond between our two nations," it further added. "Over the decades, the ties between our people, including a vibrant community of more than four million Indian-Americans, have sustained and strengthened our partnership," the statement added. Watch PM Modi's address here: Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2021 × "The friendship between our nations will continue to flourish and grow. I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day," the statement by White House oncluded.

'Together, we must show the world...': US President Joe Biden's message on India's 75th Independence Day

PM Narendra Modi remembers freedom fighters, honours COVID-19 warriors and Olympians during Independence Day address

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-independence-why-was-august-15-chosen-as-independence-day-404571">Independence Day</a> on Sunday (August 15). From agriculture to infrastructure, from health to sports, PM Modi touched upon a range of topics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the highlights of his address was a poem, he&nbsp;recited enthusiastically before ending his speech. With the help of the poem, which was in Hindi, PM Modi&nbsp;encouraged the countrymen to take charge by saying, "this is the moment, the right moment, the priceless moment of India".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Laying a roadmap for 25 years, when India will celebrate 100 years of freedom, PM Modi mentioned that "there's nothing people can't do" and there's nothing that can't be achieved. He motivated the countrymen by saying that just get up and recognise abilities and understand responsibilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-congratulate-india-on-independence-day-405490">World leaders congratulate India on Independence Day</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Here's the poem (Hindi):</strong><br />
यही समय है, सही समय है,&nbsp;<br />
भारत का अनमोल समय है।&nbsp;<br />
असंख्य भुजाओं की शक्ति है,<br />
हर तरफ़ देश की भक्ति है,&nbsp;<br />
तुम उठो तिरंगा लहरा दो,&nbsp;<br />
भारत के भाग्य को फहरा दो।</p>

<p>यही समय है, सही समय है,&nbsp;<br />
भारत का अनमोल समय है।&nbsp;<br />
कुछ ऐसा नहीं जो कर ना सको,&nbsp;<br />
कुछ ऐसा नहीं जो पा ना सको,<br />
तुम उठ जाओ, तुम जुट जाओ,&nbsp;<br />
सामर्थ्य को अपने पहचानो,&nbsp;<br />
कर्तव्य को अपने सब जानो,&nbsp;<br />
भारत का ये अनमोल समय है,&nbsp;<br />
यही समय है, सही समय है ।</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-necessary-to-make-full-use-of-indias-potential-says-pm-modi-405470">Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>The poem loosely translated in English as, "This is the moment, the right moment. India's priceless moment. Power of innumerable arms and love for the nation. Pick up the National Flag and unfurl India's future."</p>

<p>"This is the moment, the right moment. India's priceless moment. There's nothing you can't do. There's nothing you can't get. Get up and get going, recognise your abilities and responsibilities.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">यही समय है, सही समय है,<br />
<br />
भारत का अनमोल समय है।<br />
<br />
असंख्य भुजाओं की शक्ति है,<br />
<br />
हर तरफ़ देश की भक्ति है,<br />
<br />
तुम उठो तिरंगा लहरा दो,<br />
<br />
भारत के भाग्य को फहरा दो: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1426748682892808197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/happy-independence-day-google-honours-multicultural-spirit-of-india-with-unique-a-doodle-405533">Happy Independence Day: Google honours multicultural spirit of India with unique a Doodle</a></strong></p>

<p>During his address, PM Modi also remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors and stars of the Tokyo Olympics, who brought glory to the nation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch his address here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. <a href="https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs">https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1426728344867860485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). From agriculture to infrastructure, from health to sports, PM Modi touched upon a range of topics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). From agriculture to infrastructure, from health to sports, PM Modi touched upon a range of topics. One of the highlights of his address was a poem, he recited enthusiastically before ending his speech. With the help of the poem, which was in Hindi, PM Modi encouraged the countrymen to take charge by saying, "this is the moment, the right moment, the priceless moment of India". Laying a roadmap for 25 years, when India will celebrate 100 years of freedom, PM Modi mentioned that "there's nothing people can't do" and there's nothing that can't be achieved. He motivated the countrymen by saying that just get up and recognise abilities and understand responsibilities. ALSO READ | World leaders congratulate India on Independence Day Here's the poem (Hindi): यही समय है, सही समय है, भारत का अनमोल समय है। असंख्य भुजाओं की शक्ति है, हर तरफ़ देश की भक्ति है, तुम उठो तिरंगा लहरा दो, भारत के भाग्य को फहरा दो। यही समय है, सही समय है, भारत का अनमोल समय है। कुछ ऐसा नहीं जो कर ना सको, कुछ ऐसा नहीं जो पा ना सको, तुम उठ जाओ, तुम जुट जाओ, सामर्थ्य को अपने पहचानो, कर्तव्य को अपने सब जानो, भारत का ये अनमोल समय है, यही समय है, सही समय है । ALSO READ | Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi The poem loosely translated in English as, "This is the moment, the right moment. India's priceless moment. Power of innumerable arms and love for the nation. Pick up the National Flag and unfurl India's future." "This is the moment, the right moment. India's priceless moment. There's nothing you can't do. There's nothing you can't get. Get up and get going, recognise your abilities and responsibilities. यही समय है, सही समय है, भारत का अनमोल समय है। असंख्य भुजाओं की शक्ति है, हर तरफ़ देश की भक्ति है, तुम उठो तिरंगा लहरा दो, भारत के भाग्य को फहरा दो: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 15, 2021 × × ALSO READ | Happy Independence Day: Google honours multicultural spirit of India with unique a Doodle During his address, PM Modi also remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors and stars of the Tokyo Olympics, who brought glory to the nation. Watch his address here: Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2021 ×

'This is the moment, the right moment': PM Modi recites poem for youth during Independence Day address - Watch

<p>India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has opened up on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped her to reach the Tokyo Games 2020 and&nbsp;in recovering from an injury.</p>

<p>Chanu revealed that PM Modi "helped" with a ticket for the US flight in one day to train there and undergo rehabilitation. The 26-year-old won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at Tokyo Games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's true that Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped me reach Tokyo 2020 Olympics after my injury. They booked the ticket for the flight in one day for the US to help me train there and undergo rehabilitation," Mirabai Chanu told ANI. "Sir has given me huge support for the training," added Chanu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-womens-hockey-team-captures-nations-imagination-heres-a-look-at-their-fairytale-run-at-tokyo-2020-403368">Indian women's hockey team captures nation's imagination, here's a look at their fairytale run at Tokyo 2020</a></strong></p>

<p>After winning a medal in Tokyo, Mirabai became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh revealed that PM Modi had intervened to help two of the athletes to get better medical care and training in the US before the Tokyo Olympics.</p>

<p>Speaking to ANI, the Manipur CM said when he had met the Prime Minister this week, he thanked him for helping weightlifter Mirabai Chanu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-hockey-belgium-claim-first-gold-after-shootout-win-over-australia-403167">Tokyo Olympics hockey: Belgium claim first gold after shootout win over Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just after winning silver, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION, where she had mentioned a call from PM Modi, who tweeted moments after she had won the medal. He wrote, "Congratulations to her for winning the Silver medal in weightlifting. Her success motivates every Indian." He also added that he couldn't have asked for a happier start to the Olympics 2020 and mentioned that India is elated by Chanu's "stupendous performance".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the exclusive chat with WION, Chanu had also opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." <strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has opened up on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped her to reach the Tokyo Games 2020 and in recovering from an injury.

India's star weightlifter Mirabai Chanu has opened up on how Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped her to reach the Tokyo Games 2020 and in recovering from an injury. Chanu revealed that PM Modi "helped" with a ticket for the US flight in one day to train there and undergo rehabilitation. The 26-year-old won a silver medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category at Tokyo Games. "It's true that Prime Minister Narendra Modi helped me reach Tokyo 2020 Olympics after my injury. They booked the ticket for the flight in one day for the US to help me train there and undergo rehabilitation," Mirabai Chanu told ANI. "Sir has given me huge support for the training," added Chanu. IN PICS | Indian women's hockey team captures nation's imagination, here's a look at their fairytale run at Tokyo 2020 After winning a medal in Tokyo, Mirabai became the second Indian weightlifter to win an Olympic medal after Karnam Malleswari, who had won the Olympic medal (Bronze) while competing at the 2000 Sydney Games in the women’s 69kg weight category. Earlier on Friday, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh revealed that PM Modi had intervened to help two of the athletes to get better medical care and training in the US before the Tokyo Olympics. Speaking to ANI, the Manipur CM said when he had met the Prime Minister this week, he thanked him for helping weightlifter Mirabai Chanu. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics hockey: Belgium claim first gold after shootout win over Australia Chanu managed a total lift of 202 kgs (87kgs in snatch + 115 kgs in clean and jerk) to claim the silver medal. She finished behind Hou Zhihui of China, who set an Olympic record with a lift of 210 kgs (94+116). Indonesia’s Aisah Windy Cantika took the bronze medal with an effort of 194kg (84+110). Just after winning silver, Chanu spoke exclusively to WION, where she had mentioned a call from PM Modi, who tweeted moments after she had won the medal. He wrote, "Congratulations to her for winning the Silver medal in weightlifting. Her success motivates every Indian." He also added that he couldn't have asked for a happier start to the Olympics 2020 and mentioned that India is elated by Chanu's "stupendous performance". In the exclusive chat with WION, Chanu had also opened up about the moment when she stood at the podium with her silver medal. She said, "I came here after years of hard work and when I stood on the podium, I forgot about the fatigue for some time as it's like a dream come true." Watch the video here: × (with inputs from agencies)

Tokyo Olympics: PM Modi gave me 'huge support' to train in the US, says Mirabai Chanu

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi said wins and losses are a "part of life" after the Indian men's hockey team <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-india-lose-2-5-to-belgium-in-mens-hockey-semi-final-will-compete-for-bronze-next-402499">lost the semi-final</a> clash against&nbsp;Belgium at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. PM Modi also wished the team for the next match and said, "India is proud of our players".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Manpreet Singh-led team's dreams of entering the Olympics final after 41-years were shattered after they lost 2-5 to world champions Belgium in semis. However, they will now fight for a bronze in the Tokyo Games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Wins and losses are a part of life. Our Men’s Hockey Team at #Tokyo2020 gave their best and that is what counts. Wishing the Team the very best for the next match and their future endeavours. India is proud of our players," PM Modi tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-winning-for-my-country-was-important-says-indian-badminton-star-pv-sindhu-on-her-olympics-bronze-402342">EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Wins and losses are a part of life. Our Men’s Hockey Team at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> gave their best and that is what counts. Wishing the Team the very best for the next match and their future endeavours. India is proud of our players.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1422396362172162052?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While the match was underway, PM Modi tweeted that he was watching, He wrote, "I'm watching the India vs Belgium Hockey Men's Semi Final at #Tokyo2020. Proud of our team and their skills. Wishing them the very best!"</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-gymnastics-simone-biles-to-compete-in-balance-beam-final-402369" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics gymnastics: Simone Biles to compete in balance beam final</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I’m watching the India vs Belgium Hockey Men’s Semi Final at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a>. Proud of our team and their skills. Wishing them the very best!</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1422377993410813953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Both the teams were off to a thrilling start to the first quarter as India scored two goals back-to-back to take a 2-1 lead after the Men in Blue conceded an early goal with Loick Luyaert scoring through a penalty corner. For India, Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh were on the score sheet in Q1.</p>

<p>The tournament's top scorer and Belgium's star Alexander Hendrickx levelled the score 2-2 in the second quarter. He went on to score two more goals in the final quarter to complete his hat-trick, taking his team to the gold-medal match.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Are you ready to cheer for 🇮🇳 Men's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hockey</a> team as they take on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bel</a> in their semi-final match today?<br />
<br />
It's going to be a thrilling game, so stay tuned for updates and keep sending in your <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> messages.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://t.co/Fp8RFSOk1a">pic.twitter.com/Fp8RFSOk1a</a></p>
— SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1422364431548260352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Previously, India had booked a place in the semi-final through a 3-1 win against Great Britain in the quarterfinals This was their first semis since 1972. On the other hand, Belgium defeated Spain 3-1 to enter the semi-final of the event.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi said wins and losses are a "part of life" after the Indian men's hockey team lost the semi-final clash against Belgium at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said wins and losses are a "part of life" after the Indian men's hockey team lost the semi-final clash against Belgium at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. PM Modi also wished the team for the next match and said, "India is proud of our players". The Manpreet Singh-led team's dreams of entering the Olympics final after 41-years were shattered after they lost 2-5 to world champions Belgium in semis. However, they will now fight for a bronze in the Tokyo Games. "Wins and losses are a part of life. Our Men’s Hockey Team at #Tokyo2020 gave their best and that is what counts. Wishing the Team the very best for the next match and their future endeavours. India is proud of our players," PM Modi tweeted. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE: Winning for my country was important, says Indian badminton star PV Sindhu on her Olympics bronze Wins and losses are a part of life. Our Men’s Hockey Team at #Tokyo2020 gave their best and that is what counts. Wishing the Team the very best for the next match and their future endeavours. India is proud of our players. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 3, 2021 × While the match was underway, PM Modi tweeted that he was watching, He wrote, "I'm watching the India vs Belgium Hockey Men's Semi Final at #Tokyo2020. Proud of our team and their skills. Wishing them the very best!" ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics gymnastics: Simone Biles to compete in balance beam final I’m watching the India vs Belgium Hockey Men’s Semi Final at #Tokyo2020. Proud of our team and their skills. Wishing them the very best! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 3, 2021 × Both the teams were off to a thrilling start to the first quarter as India scored two goals back-to-back to take a 2-1 lead after the Men in Blue conceded an early goal with Loick Luyaert scoring through a penalty corner. For India, Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh were on the score sheet in Q1. The tournament's top scorer and Belgium's star Alexander Hendrickx levelled the score 2-2 in the second quarter. He went on to score two more goals in the final quarter to complete his hat-trick, taking his team to the gold-medal match. Are you ready to cheer for 🇮🇳 Men's #Hockey team as they take on #Bel in their semi-final match today? It's going to be a thrilling game, so stay tuned for updates and keep sending in your #Cheer4India messages.#Tokyo2020 #Olympics pic.twitter.com/Fp8RFSOk1a — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 3, 2021 × Previously, India had booked a place in the semi-final through a 3-1 win against Great Britain in the quarterfinals This was their first semis since 1972. On the other hand, Belgium defeated Spain 3-1 to enter the semi-final of the event.

Tokyo Olympics: 'Wins and losses are part of life,' says PM Modi after India lose men's hockey semifinal

<p>Saudi Arabia has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Middle East Green Initiative Summit, which will take place in October. Through the initiative, the country aims to lead regional efforts in combating climate change. The invite by the Saudis shows India's centrality on climate issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Middle East Green Initiative, along with the Saudi Green Initiative, was announced in March of this year by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He said, "The Saudi and Middle East Green Initiatives are only a start. The Kingdom, the region and the world need to go much further and faster in combating climate change".</p>

<p>Under the Middle East Green Initiative, Saudi Arabia will work with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Middle Eastern countries to plant 40 billion trees in that part of the world. The project is expected to restore an area equivalent to 200 million hectares of degraded land.</p>

<p>Under the Saudi green initiative targets, the country aims to plant 10 billion trees on its territory, reduce carbon emissions by more than 4% of global contributions, raise protected areas to more than 30% of total land area, and put renewables at 50% of the Kingdom's energy mix by 2030.</p>

<p>According to Saudi government estimates, due to climate challenges like desertification, the country faces huge risks, especially in economic aspects. The region loses $13 billion annually because of dust storms. Air pollution from greenhouse gases is also estimated to have shortened life expectancy in Saudi Arabia by 1.5 years.</p>

<p>PM Modi last visited Saudi Arabia in October of 2019, during which a Strategic Partnership Council Agreement was signed. Riyadh identifies India as one of the Kingdom’s Strategic Partner Countries under ‘Vision 2030’. The visit also saw the launch of the Rupay card, which especially benefits the large Indian expat community in the country.</p>

<p>Other leaders have also been invited to the Saudi Arabia climate summit, which includes Pakistan PM Imran Khan. Remember, Khan was not invited to the US climate summit even as Bangladesh and Bhutan from the region were present at the mega summit.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, PM Modi took part in the Climate Leaders’ virtual Summit chaired by President Biden. During that summit, PM Narendra Modi and President Joseph Biden launched the India-US Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 Partnership. The two elements of the partnership are the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership and the Climate Action and Finance Mobilization Dialogue. US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry has also visited Delhi.</p>


Saudi Arabia has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Middle East Green Initiative Summit, which will take place in October. Through the initiative, the country aims to lead regional efforts in combating climate change.

Saudi Arabia has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Middle East Green Initiative Summit, which will take place in October. Through the initiative, the country aims to lead regional efforts in combating climate change. The invite by the Saudis shows India's centrality on climate issues. The Middle East Green Initiative, along with the Saudi Green Initiative, was announced in March of this year by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He said, "The Saudi and Middle East Green Initiatives are only a start. The Kingdom, the region and the world need to go much further and faster in combating climate change". Under the Middle East Green Initiative, Saudi Arabia will work with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Middle Eastern countries to plant 40 billion trees in that part of the world. The project is expected to restore an area equivalent to 200 million hectares of degraded land. Under the Saudi green initiative targets, the country aims to plant 10 billion trees on its territory, reduce carbon emissions by more than 4% of global contributions, raise protected areas to more than 30% of total land area, and put renewables at 50% of the Kingdom's energy mix by 2030. According to Saudi government estimates, due to climate challenges like desertification, the country faces huge risks, especially in economic aspects. The region loses $13 billion annually because of dust storms. Air pollution from greenhouse gases is also estimated to have shortened life expectancy in Saudi Arabia by 1.5 years. PM Modi last visited Saudi Arabia in October of 2019, during which a Strategic Partnership Council Agreement was signed. Riyadh identifies India as one of the Kingdom’s Strategic Partner Countries under ‘Vision 2030’. The visit also saw the launch of the Rupay card, which especially benefits the large Indian expat community in the country. Other leaders have also been invited to the Saudi Arabia climate summit, which includes Pakistan PM Imran Khan. Remember, Khan was not invited to the US climate summit even as Bangladesh and Bhutan from the region were present at the mega summit. Earlier this year, PM Modi took part in the Climate Leaders’ virtual Summit chaired by President Biden. During that summit, PM Narendra Modi and President Joseph Biden launched the India-US Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 Partnership. The two elements of the partnership are the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership and the Climate Action and Finance Mobilization Dialogue. US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry has also visited Delhi.

Saudi Arabia invites PM Narendra Modi for climate summit

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address policy makers in the domain of education and skill development, students and teachers across the country on Thursday via video conferencing to mark the completion of one year of reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.</p>

<p>He will also launch multiple initiatives in the education sector.According to Prime Minister`s Office (PMO), Prime Minister will launch the Academic Bank of Credit that will provide multiple entry and exit options for students in Higher education; first Year Engineering Programmes in Regional Languages and Guidelines for the Internationalization of Higher Education.</p>

<p>The initiatives to be launched also include Vidya Pravesh, a three-month play-based school preparation module for Grade 1 students; Indian Sign Language as a Subject at secondary level; NISHTHA 2.0, an integrated programme of teacher training designed by NCERT; SAFAL (Structured Assessment For Analyzing Learning Levels), a competency-based assessment framework for Grades 3, 5 and 8 in CBSE schools; and a website dedicated to Artificial Intelligence.</p>

<p>Further, the event will witness the launch of the National Digital Education Architecture (NDEAR) and the National Education Technology Forum (NETF).These initiatives will mark a significant step towards the realization of the goals of NEP 2020 and will make the education sector more vibrant and accessible.</p>

<p>The NEP, 2020 is the guiding philosophy for changing the learning landscape, making education holistic and building strong foundations for an Atmanirbhar Bharat.This is the first education policy of the 21st Century and replaced the thirty-four-year-old National Policy on Education (NPE), 1986.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Built on the foundational pillars of Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability and Accountability, this policy is aligned to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and aims to transform India into a vibrant knowledge society and global knowledge superpower by making both school and college education more holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary, suited to 21st century needs and aimed at bringing out the unique capabilities of each student.The Union Education Minister will also be present on the occasion.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address policy makers in the domain of education and skill development, students and teachers across the country on Thursday via video conferencing to mark the completion of one year of reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address policy makers in the domain of education and skill development, students and teachers across the country on Thursday via video conferencing to mark the completion of one year of reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He will also launch multiple initiatives in the education sector.According to Prime Minister`s Office (PMO), Prime Minister will launch the Academic Bank of Credit that will provide multiple entry and exit options for students in Higher education; first Year Engineering Programmes in Regional Languages and Guidelines for the Internationalization of Higher Education. The initiatives to be launched also include Vidya Pravesh, a three-month play-based school preparation module for Grade 1 students; Indian Sign Language as a Subject at secondary level; NISHTHA 2.0, an integrated programme of teacher training designed by NCERT; SAFAL (Structured Assessment For Analyzing Learning Levels), a competency-based assessment framework for Grades 3, 5 and 8 in CBSE schools; and a website dedicated to Artificial Intelligence. Further, the event will witness the launch of the National Digital Education Architecture (NDEAR) and the National Education Technology Forum (NETF).These initiatives will mark a significant step towards the realization of the goals of NEP 2020 and will make the education sector more vibrant and accessible. The NEP, 2020 is the guiding philosophy for changing the learning landscape, making education holistic and building strong foundations for an Atmanirbhar Bharat.This is the first education policy of the 21st Century and replaced the thirty-four-year-old National Policy on Education (NPE), 1986. Built on the foundational pillars of Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability and Accountability, this policy is aligned to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and aims to transform India into a vibrant knowledge society and global knowledge superpower by making both school and college education more holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary, suited to 21st century needs and aimed at bringing out the unique capabilities of each student.The Union Education Minister will also be present on the occasion.

PM Modi to address education community on July 29 to mark one year of NEP 2020

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Saber fencer Bhavani Devi for her splendid performance at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Devi scripted history by turning into the first Indian to win a bout in Fencing at the Olympics. A 9-time national champion entered the Round of 32 fixtures. Her strength against her Tunisian rival was incredible to watch.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-gymnasts-from-germany-opt-for-full-body-suits-to-promote-freedom-of-choice-400810" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Gymnasts from Germany opt for full-body suits to promote freedom of choice</a></p>

<p>But, she could not go past the round of 32. She was beaten by the World No. 3 Manon Brunet. She set up a bold presentation and dazzled numerous with her forceful gameplay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She easily won her initially round game 15-3 however staggered in the following.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bhavani Devi tweeted an emotional post for avid supporters after she was knocked out following a battle in her second match. She wrote, “Big day. It was upbeat and emotional. I won the first match 15/3 against Nadia Ajizi and became the first Indian fencing player to win a match at the Olympics, but I lost the second match 7/15 against Manon Brunet, the world’s top 3 player. I did my best but could not win. I apologise.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You gave your best and that is all that counts.<br />
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Wins and losses are a part of life.<br />
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India is very proud of your contributions. You are an inspiration for our citizens. <a href="https://t.co/iGta4a3sbz">https://t.co/iGta4a3sbz</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1419685651415396355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian Prime Minister retweeted the tweet and wrote: "You gave your best and that is all that counts. Wins and losses are a part of life. India is very proud of your contributions. You are an inspiration for our citizens."</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Saber fencer Bhavani Devi for her splendid performance at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Devi scripted history by turning into the first Indian to win a bout in Fencing at the Olympics.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Saber fencer Bhavani Devi for her splendid performance at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Devi scripted history by turning into the first Indian to win a bout in Fencing at the Olympics. A 9-time national champion entered the Round of 32 fixtures. Her strength against her Tunisian rival was incredible to watch. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Gymnasts from Germany opt for full-body suits to promote freedom of choice But, she could not go past the round of 32. She was beaten by the World No. 3 Manon Brunet. She set up a bold presentation and dazzled numerous with her forceful gameplay. She easily won her initially round game 15-3 however staggered in the following. Bhavani Devi tweeted an emotional post for avid supporters after she was knocked out following a battle in her second match. She wrote, “Big day. It was upbeat and emotional. I won the first match 15/3 against Nadia Ajizi and became the first Indian fencing player to win a match at the Olympics, but I lost the second match 7/15 against Manon Brunet, the world’s top 3 player. I did my best but could not win. I apologise.” You gave your best and that is all that counts. Wins and losses are a part of life. India is very proud of your contributions. You are an inspiration for our citizens. https://t.co/iGta4a3sbz — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2021 × Indian Prime Minister retweeted the tweet and wrote: "You gave your best and that is all that counts. Wins and losses are a part of life. India is very proud of your contributions. You are an inspiration for our citizens."

Tokyo Olympics: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulates Bhavani Devi for her performance

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to Georgia's Saint Queen Ketevan during his monthly Mann ki Baat programme, pointing out how "extremely emotional" the people of the country are for her.</p>

<p>External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited the country earlier this month and handed over the relics of St Ketevan who was martyred in Iran in 1624.</p>

<p>Recalling the "very interesting and very emotional event" of handing over the relics, Modi said the development imparts "new strength to India-Georgia friendship" and the "words that were said in praise of India in this ceremony are indeed very memorable."</p>

<p>The ceremony that took place at the Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral saw the participation of Georgia's top political and religious leaders including the President, PM, and His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia.</p>

<p>St Queen Ketevan's relics were found in St. Augustine Convent in Old Goa, India in 2005. DNA analysis by the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad at the instance of the Archaeological Survey of India confirmed its authenticity. It is believed her relics were brought to Goa in 1627.</p>

<p>Modi said the "ceremony has not only strengthened the relations between the two nations but as well as between Goa and Georgia."</p>

<p>He explained that "this is an extremely emotional topic for the people of Georgia. That is why keeping in mind their historical, religious, and spiritual sentiments, the Government of India decided to gift a part of these relics to the people of Georgia."</p>

<p>The relics have reached Georgia back after more than 390 years. In the past, in September 2017, relics were sent to Georgia for almost a year and were returned to India in September 2018.</p>

<p>Lauding Goa, the PM said, "I would like to thank the people of Goa for preserving this unique side of the shared history of India and Georgia. Goa has been the land of many a great spiritual heritage. Saint Augustine Church is a UNESCO's World Heritage Site – a part of the Churches and Convents of Goa."</p>

<p>EAM's visit was the first visit by an Indian external affairs minister to the country since it became independent in 1991. Georgian Foreign Minister Irakli Menagarishvili and External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh had met in New Delhi on 11 May 2000.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to Georgia's Saint Queen Ketevan during his monthly Mann ki Baat programme, pointing out how "extremely emotional" the people of the country are for her.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to Georgia's Saint Queen Ketevan during his monthly Mann ki Baat programme, pointing out how "extremely emotional" the people of the country are for her. External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited the country earlier this month and handed over the relics of St Ketevan who was martyred in Iran in 1624. Recalling the "very interesting and very emotional event" of handing over the relics, Modi said the development imparts "new strength to India-Georgia friendship" and the "words that were said in praise of India in this ceremony are indeed very memorable." The ceremony that took place at the Sameba Holy Trinity Cathedral saw the participation of Georgia's top political and religious leaders including the President, PM, and His Holiness and Beatitude Ilia II, the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia. St Queen Ketevan's relics were found in St. Augustine Convent in Old Goa, India in 2005. DNA analysis by the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad at the instance of the Archaeological Survey of India confirmed its authenticity. It is believed her relics were brought to Goa in 1627. Modi said the "ceremony has not only strengthened the relations between the two nations but as well as between Goa and Georgia." He explained that "this is an extremely emotional topic for the people of Georgia. That is why keeping in mind their historical, religious, and spiritual sentiments, the Government of India decided to gift a part of these relics to the people of Georgia." The relics have reached Georgia back after more than 390 years. In the past, in September 2017, relics were sent to Georgia for almost a year and were returned to India in September 2018. Lauding Goa, the PM said, "I would like to thank the people of Goa for preserving this unique side of the shared history of India and Georgia. Goa has been the land of many a great spiritual heritage. Saint Augustine Church is a UNESCO's World Heritage Site – a part of the Churches and Convents of Goa." EAM's visit was the first visit by an Indian external affairs minister to the country since it became independent in 1991. Georgian Foreign Minister Irakli Menagarishvili and External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh had met in New Delhi on 11 May 2000.

PM Modi pays tributes to Georgia's Saint Queen Ketevan; lauds Goa for preserving her relics

<p>Singapore's Prime minister Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated a renovated historic Gurudwara. This was also featured in&nbsp;this month's "Mann ki Baat" programme of the Indian PM Narendra Modi, who appreciated the development.</p>

<p>The Silat Road Gurudwara was built in 1924 and is the oldest gurudwara in the country. This Gurudwara is&nbsp;dedicated to Bhai Maharaj Singh, who fought against the British in India and is&nbsp;one of the historic sites of the country.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-worked-closely-with-partners-as-unsc-condemns-turkey-on-varosha-issue-400297" hreflang="en">India worked closely with partners as UNSC condemns Turkey on Varosha issue</a></strong></p>

<p>"The Prime Minister of Singapore and my friend, Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated the recently renovated Silat Road Gurudwara. He also wore the traditional Sikh turban," Modi said. "The people-to-people strength between two countries gets a boost with such initiatives and efforts. These also show how important it is to live in a harmonious environment and understand each other's culture."</p>

<p>Bhai Maharaj Singh was sent by the British to Singapore in the 1850s as a political prisoner. He was seen as a "saint soldier" and was the first Sikh of Singapore. He died in solitary confinement at the Outram Prison in 1856.</p>

<p>"This Gurudwara was built about a hundred years ago and there is also a memorial dedicated to Bhai Maharaj Singh. Bhai Maharaj Singh ji fought for the independence of India and this moment becomes more inspiring when we are celebrating 75 years of independence," Modi said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-critical-partner-in-the-region-says-us-state-dept-ahead-of-blinken-visit-400259" hreflang="en">India critical partner in the region,&nbsp;says&nbsp;US State dept ahead of&nbsp;Blinken&nbsp;visit</a></strong></p>

<p>Silat Road Gurudwara was the first Sikh Gurudwara of the country built in traditional styles, like the&nbsp;Gurudwaras found in India. It was also referred to as Police&nbsp;Gurudwara because it was built with help of Sikhs in the police service. The&nbsp;Gurudwara has been a spiritual haven for Sikhs in Singapore and during the Japanese occupation, it took in the widows and children of Sikhs who gave lives in defending the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian origin people make from 7 to 9 per cent&nbsp;of the multicultural south Asian country which takes pride in its diversity. Being the third largest ethnic group, Indian Singaporeans have contributed a lot the nation-building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two Indian origin people are top Singapore ministers — K. Shanmugam is the current home minister and Vivian Balakrishnan, the current foreign minister of the country.&nbsp;General Ravinder Singh was the chief of the Singapore Army from 2011–2014.</p>


Singapore's Prime minister Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated a renovated historic Gurudwara. This was also featured in this month's "Mann ki Baat" programme of the Indian PM Narendra Modi, who appreciated the development.

Singapore's Prime minister Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated a renovated historic Gurudwara. This was also featured in this month's "Mann ki Baat" programme of the Indian PM Narendra Modi, who appreciated the development. The Silat Road Gurudwara was built in 1924 and is the oldest gurudwara in the country. This Gurudwara is dedicated to Bhai Maharaj Singh, who fought against the British in India and is one of the historic sites of the country. Also read | India worked closely with partners as UNSC condemns Turkey on Varosha issue "The Prime Minister of Singapore and my friend, Lee Hsien Loong inaugurated the recently renovated Silat Road Gurudwara. He also wore the traditional Sikh turban," Modi said. "The people-to-people strength between two countries gets a boost with such initiatives and efforts. These also show how important it is to live in a harmonious environment and understand each other's culture." Bhai Maharaj Singh was sent by the British to Singapore in the 1850s as a political prisoner. He was seen as a "saint soldier" and was the first Sikh of Singapore. He died in solitary confinement at the Outram Prison in 1856. "This Gurudwara was built about a hundred years ago and there is also a memorial dedicated to Bhai Maharaj Singh. Bhai Maharaj Singh ji fought for the independence of India and this moment becomes more inspiring when we are celebrating 75 years of independence," Modi said. Also read | India critical partner in the region, says US State dept ahead of Blinken visit Silat Road Gurudwara was the first Sikh Gurudwara of the country built in traditional styles, like the Gurudwaras found in India. It was also referred to as Police Gurudwara because it was built with help of Sikhs in the police service. The Gurudwara has been a spiritual haven for Sikhs in Singapore and during the Japanese occupation, it took in the widows and children of Sikhs who gave lives in defending the country. Indian origin people make from 7 to 9 per cent of the multicultural south Asian country which takes pride in its diversity. Being the third largest ethnic group, Indian Singaporeans have contributed a lot the nation-building. Two Indian origin people are top Singapore ministers — K. Shanmugam is the current home minister and Vivian Balakrishnan, the current foreign minister of the country. General Ravinder Singh was the chief of the Singapore Army from 2011–2014.

Singapore PM inaugurating historic Gurudwara lauded by Indian PM Modi

<p>On Saturday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/twitter">Twitter</a> was abuzz with tweets about PCA Act, with numerous netizens from the Indian subcontinent tweeting with the hashtag #NoMore50.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With more than 9,100 tweets the keywords PCA Act remained on the trending list. Reportedly this Twitter storm was generated by animal activists of India with a singular motive.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shraddha-kapoor-urges-fans-to-sign-petition-for-strict-actions-against-animal-cruelty-303019">Shraddha Kapoor urges fans to sign petition for strict actions against animal cruelty</a></strong></p>

<p>The social media storm was pushing for an amendment to the decades-old Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act in the upcoming monsoon session of parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among the Indian celebrities who offered their support to this cause were John Abraham, Kiara Advani, Jacqueline Fernandes and Disha Patani.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PCA Act was enacted in 1960 but has not been amended ever since. Animals have suffered for far too long because of weak laws. Heinous crimes need to be made non-bailable. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji <a href="https://twitter.com/PRupala?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PRupala</a> ji pls amend &amp; strengthen PCA Act in this monsoon session of parliament <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoMore50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoMore50</a></p>
— John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJohnAbraham/status/1416377675556425737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>PCA Act</strong></p>

<p>The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act dates back to 1960. The law which commenced in the year 1974 stipulates punishment and/or fine for a multitude of animal cruelties, but animal activists describe the punishments as ‘meagre’ at best.&nbsp;According to this draconian law, the highest fine for a first-time offender is limited to merely fifty rupees.</p>

<p>In an effort to condemn heinous cruelty to animals, animal activists using #NoMore50 seek&nbsp;the amendment of this law.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/police-in-southern-india-arrest-eight-juveniles-for-burning-puppies-alive-2947">Police in southern India arrest eight juveniles for burning puppies alive</a></strong></p>

<p>Almost all of the Nine thousand&nbsp;tweets were addressed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding stronger penalties for animal cruelty.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In February of this year, the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying had proposed some amendments to the sixty-year-old law.</p>

<p>However, despite the proposal's introduction, no action was taken during that&nbsp;session of the legislature. Therefore, in order to push for the passage of these amendments, animal activists are mobilising just before another session of parliament starts.</p>

<p><strong>Past Amendments</strong></p>

<p>To date, no amendments have been made to the law.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-police-arrest-students-who-allegedly-threw-dog-off-roof-1951">Indian police arrest students who allegedly threw dog off roof</a></strong></p>

<p>According to a previous statement by Chinny Krishna, former Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) vice-chairman, in the year 2011, a draft Animal Welfare bill was framed by AWBI and submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (now, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change).</p>

<p>However, no action was taken by the government.</p>

<p><strong>What are the proposed Changes?</strong></p>

<p>Previously, the penalty for any untoward act of cruelty attracted fines ranging from Rs 10 up to Rs 50. This includes beating, kicking, torturing, starving, overloading, overriding, and mutilations done to an animal.</p>

<p>Replacing that, as per&nbsp;the proposed draft, if an act of an individual or an organization causes an animal to die, they could face a penalty of up to 75,000 rupees or triple the cost of the animal.</p>

<p><strong>Why is it needed?</strong></p>

<p>India has witnessed many horrendous cases of animal abuse in the past few years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elephant-killed-after-being-fed-with-pineapple-stuffed-with-crackers-303011">Elephant killed after being fed with pineapple stuffed with crackers</a></strong></p>

<p>Internet is full of cases of animal cruelty ranging from killing and mutilating animals on social media platforms for likes and views to targeting animals for revenge over petty fights between humans.</p>

<p>The most egregious and heartbreaking case of animal cruelty is from Kerela, where a pregnant elephant was fed firecrackers in a pineapple, which exploded in her mouth, killing her as well as the baby inside.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/she-was-harmless-from-sunil-chhetri-to-rohit-sharma-sports-fraternity-reacts-to-the-cruel-killing-of-pregnant-elephant-in-kerala-303225">'She was harmless' - From Sunil Chhetri to Rohit Sharma: Sports fraternity reacts to the cruel killing of pregnant elephant in Kerala</a></strong></p>


On Saturday, Twitter was abuzz with tweets about PCA Act, with numerous netizens from the Indian subcontinent tweeting with the hashtag #NoMore50. With more than 9,100 tweets the keywords PCA Act remained on the trending list.

On Saturday, Twitter was abuzz with tweets about PCA Act, with numerous netizens from the Indian subcontinent tweeting with the hashtag #NoMore50. With more than 9,100 tweets the keywords PCA Act remained on the trending list. Reportedly this Twitter storm was generated by animal activists of India with a singular motive. Also read | Shraddha Kapoor urges fans to sign petition for strict actions against animal cruelty The social media storm was pushing for an amendment to the decades-old Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act in the upcoming monsoon session of parliament. Among the Indian celebrities who offered their support to this cause were John Abraham, Kiara Advani, Jacqueline Fernandes and Disha Patani. PCA Act was enacted in 1960 but has not been amended ever since. Animals have suffered for far too long because of weak laws. Heinous crimes need to be made non-bailable. @narendramodi ji @PRupala ji pls amend & strengthen PCA Act in this monsoon session of parliament #NoMore50 — John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) July 17, 2021 × PCA Act The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act dates back to 1960. The law which commenced in the year 1974 stipulates punishment and/or fine for a multitude of animal cruelties, but animal activists describe the punishments as ‘meagre’ at best. According to this draconian law, the highest fine for a first-time offender is limited to merely fifty rupees. In an effort to condemn heinous cruelty to animals, animal activists using #NoMore50 seek the amendment of this law. Also read | Police in southern India arrest eight juveniles for burning puppies alive Almost all of the Nine thousand tweets were addressed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding stronger penalties for animal cruelty. In February of this year, the Union Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying had proposed some amendments to the sixty-year-old law. However, despite the proposal's introduction, no action was taken during that session of the legislature. Therefore, in order to push for the passage of these amendments, animal activists are mobilising just before another session of parliament starts. Past Amendments To date, no amendments have been made to the law. Also read | Indian police arrest students who allegedly threw dog off roof According to a previous statement by Chinny Krishna, former Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) vice-chairman, in the year 2011, a draft Animal Welfare bill was framed by AWBI and submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Forests (now, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change). However, no action was taken by the government. What are the proposed Changes? Previously, the penalty for any untoward act of cruelty attracted fines ranging from Rs 10 up to Rs 50. This includes beating, kicking, torturing, starving, overloading, overriding, and mutilations done to an animal. Replacing that, as per the proposed draft, if an act of an individual or an organization causes an animal to die, they could face a penalty of up to 75,000 rupees or triple the cost of the animal. Why is it needed? India has witnessed many horrendous cases of animal abuse in the past few years. Also read | Elephant killed after being fed with pineapple stuffed with crackers Internet is full of cases of animal cruelty ranging from killing and mutilating animals on social media platforms for likes and views to targeting animals for revenge over petty fights between humans. The most egregious and heartbreaking case of animal cruelty is from Kerela, where a pregnant elephant was fed firecrackers in a pineapple, which exploded in her mouth, killing her as well as the baby inside. Also read | 'She was harmless' - From Sunil Chhetri to Rohit Sharma: Sports fraternity reacts to the cruel killing of pregnant elephant in Kerala

Explainer: What is PCA Act and why is it trending on Twitter

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that Kashi is emerging as one of the biggest medical hubs of Purvanchal, with facilities being made available for the treatment of those diseases for which people had to go to Delhi and Mumbai earlier.</p>

<p>Addressing the inauguration of various development projects worth over Rs 1500 crores in Varanasi, PM Modi started his speech with the chants of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai'&nbsp;and 'Har Har Mahadev'&nbsp;said, "Kashi is becoming one of the largest medical hubs of Purvanchal.&nbsp;Today facilities are being made available in Kashi too for diseases for the treatment of which one had to go to Delhi and Mumbai earlier."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccines-are-best-defence-against-preventing-covid-19-death-icmr-tn-police-study-397493">Vaccines are best defence against preventing COVID-19 death: ICMR-TN police study</a></strong></p>

<p>The Prime Minister stated that Uttar Pradesh is witnessing unprecedented improvement in medical infrastructure.</p>

<p>"The infrastructure related to cleanliness and health is being prepared in UP. Today, UP is witnessing unprecedented improvement in medical infrastructure, be it health centres in villages, medical colleges, AIIMS," said PM Modi.</p>

<p>He further said that at present, the work of building about 550 oxygen plants is going on in full swing across Uttar Pradesh. Today 14 oxygen plants have also been dedicated here in Banaras, he added.</p>

<p>PM Modi said that various projects inaugurated today shall add to the existing medical infrastructure of Kashi, adding that new hospitals related to the medicine of women and children have been established in the city.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hyderabad-elderly-couple-and-their-mission-to-save-lives-397392">Hyderabad elderly couple and their mission to save lives</a></strong></p>

<p>He further said that 100 beds have been added in the Banaras Hindu University and 50 beds in the district hospital.</p>

<p>"Today some more links are being added to the medical infrastructure of Kashi. Today Kashi is getting new hospitals related to the medicine of women and children. Out of this, 100 beds capacity is being added in BHU and 50 beds in the district hospital," said the Prime Minister.</p>

<p>He stated that Kashi has shown that it doesn't stop or get tired even in difficult times. Stating that the past few months have been very difficult for the entire mankind, PM Modi said that the entire Uttar Pradesh, including Kashi, faced the mutating and dangerous form of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> with all its might.</p>

<p>PM Modi said, "The past few months have been very difficult for all of us. The changed and dangerous form of the coronavirus attacked with full force. But UP, including Kashi, faced such a big crisis with full potential."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-zydus-cadila-covid-vaccine-may-get-approval-says-report-397682">India: Zydus Cadila Covid vaccine may get approval, says report</a></strong></p>

<p>He also lauded UP for conducting the maximum number of tests and vaccinating the largest number of people in the country.</p>

<p>The PM also appreciated Uttar Pradesh's COVID management efforts.</p>

<p>The key projects inaugurated by the Prime Minister today include multi-level parking at Godaulia, Ro-Ro Vessels for tourism development and a three-lane flyover bridge on the Varanasi-Ghazipur Highway.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister was felicitated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on his arrival at BHU ground in Varanasi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/deeply-committed-to-people-of-india-twitter-to-indian-parliamentary-panel-398044">Deeply committed to people of India: Twitter to Indian parliamentary panel</a></strong></p>

<p>"Under PM Modi's governance, Kashi has made a new identity in country and world. New Kashi is reaching new heights in development. This smart Kashi has become a model for the country and the world. PM Modi`s vision and inspiration are pushing people to new heights," said the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister while addressing the inauguration program.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that Kashi is emerging as one of the biggest medical hubs of Purvanchal, with facilities being made available for the treatment of those diseases for which people had to go to Delhi and Mumbai earlier.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that Kashi is emerging as one of the biggest medical hubs of Purvanchal, with facilities being made available for the treatment of those diseases for which people had to go to Delhi and Mumbai earlier. Addressing the inauguration of various development projects worth over Rs 1500 crores in Varanasi, PM Modi started his speech with the chants of 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Har Har Mahadev' said, "Kashi is becoming one of the largest medical hubs of Purvanchal. Today facilities are being made available in Kashi too for diseases for the treatment of which one had to go to Delhi and Mumbai earlier." Also read | Vaccines are best defence against preventing COVID-19 death: ICMR-TN police study The Prime Minister stated that Uttar Pradesh is witnessing unprecedented improvement in medical infrastructure. "The infrastructure related to cleanliness and health is being prepared in UP. Today, UP is witnessing unprecedented improvement in medical infrastructure, be it health centres in villages, medical colleges, AIIMS," said PM Modi. He further said that at present, the work of building about 550 oxygen plants is going on in full swing across Uttar Pradesh. Today 14 oxygen plants have also been dedicated here in Banaras, he added. PM Modi said that various projects inaugurated today shall add to the existing medical infrastructure of Kashi, adding that new hospitals related to the medicine of women and children have been established in the city. Also read | Hyderabad elderly couple and their mission to save lives He further said that 100 beds have been added in the Banaras Hindu University and 50 beds in the district hospital. "Today some more links are being added to the medical infrastructure of Kashi. Today Kashi is getting new hospitals related to the medicine of women and children. Out of this, 100 beds capacity is being added in BHU and 50 beds in the district hospital," said the Prime Minister. He stated that Kashi has shown that it doesn't stop or get tired even in difficult times. Stating that the past few months have been very difficult for the entire mankind, PM Modi said that the entire Uttar Pradesh, including Kashi, faced the mutating and dangerous form of coronavirus with all its might. PM Modi said, "The past few months have been very difficult for all of us. The changed and dangerous form of the coronavirus attacked with full force. But UP, including Kashi, faced such a big crisis with full potential." Also read | India: Zydus Cadila Covid vaccine may get approval, says report He also lauded UP for conducting the maximum number of tests and vaccinating the largest number of people in the country. The PM also appreciated Uttar Pradesh's COVID management efforts. The key projects inaugurated by the Prime Minister today include multi-level parking at Godaulia, Ro-Ro Vessels for tourism development and a three-lane flyover bridge on the Varanasi-Ghazipur Highway. The Prime Minister was felicitated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on his arrival at BHU ground in Varanasi. Also read | Deeply committed to people of India: Twitter to Indian parliamentary panel "Under PM Modi's governance, Kashi has made a new identity in country and world. New Kashi is reaching new heights in development. This smart Kashi has become a model for the country and the world. PM Modi`s vision and inspiration are pushing people to new heights," said the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister while addressing the inauguration program.

Kashi emerging as one of biggest medical hubs of Purvanchal: PM Modi

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Vietnamese counterpart&nbsp;Phạm Minh Chinh will be speaking to each other on Saturday.</p>

<p>The talks will happen around 11:15 am IST and comes as part of growing engagement between the two&nbsp;countries.</p>

<p>This is the first conversation between the two leaders after Pham took charge as the PM of Vietnam.</p>

<p>Phạm Minh Chính took charge in April of the year and has served in various positions of the government.</p>

<p>During the talks, a key focus will be on dealing with the covid crisis, vaccines, engagement in Indo pacific, and other related areas. Amid the 2nd wave of the COVID pandemic, Vietnam had reached out to India with supplies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vietnam's envoy Pham Sanh Chau speaking to WION recently on vaccines said, "We also have the opportunity to purchase Covaxin. Covaxin is not approved yet by WHO for emergency use, that is why we are waiting for this approval by WHO and then we will intensify the discussion and drafting of the contract for the purchase of this COVAXIN for Vietnamese people."</p>

<p>In December of last year, Indian PM Modi and the then PM of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc held a virtual summit. During the summit, India handed over the first of 12 High-Speed Guard boats to Vietnam under the $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Defence in fact has emerged as one of the pillars of the relationship.&nbsp;On first of this month, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Defence Minister of Vietnam, Sr. Lt. Gen. Phan Van Giang.&nbsp;Tweeting after the meet, he said,"India and Vietnam continue to make forward movement in overcoming the challenges posed by COVID-19."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India and Vietnam continue to make forward movement in overcoming the challenges posed by COVID-19.<br />
I thank my Vietnamese counterpart for inviting me on an official visit to his beautiful and amazing country. I look forward to it. 3/3</p>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1410512509547671557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Vietnamese counterpart Phạm Minh Chinh will be speaking to each other on Saturday. The talks will happen around 11:15 am IST and comes as part of growing engagement between the two countries.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Vietnamese counterpart Phạm Minh Chinh will be speaking to each other on Saturday. The talks will happen around 11:15 am IST and comes as part of growing engagement between the two countries. This is the first conversation between the two leaders after Pham took charge as the PM of Vietnam. Phạm Minh Chính took charge in April of the year and has served in various positions of the government. During the talks, a key focus will be on dealing with the covid crisis, vaccines, engagement in Indo pacific, and other related areas. Amid the 2nd wave of the COVID pandemic, Vietnam had reached out to India with supplies. Vietnam's envoy Pham Sanh Chau speaking to WION recently on vaccines said, "We also have the opportunity to purchase Covaxin. Covaxin is not approved yet by WHO for emergency use, that is why we are waiting for this approval by WHO and then we will intensify the discussion and drafting of the contract for the purchase of this COVAXIN for Vietnamese people." In December of last year, Indian PM Modi and the then PM of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc held a virtual summit. During the summit, India handed over the first of 12 High-Speed Guard boats to Vietnam under the $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi. Defence in fact has emerged as one of the pillars of the relationship. On first of this month, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Defence Minister of Vietnam, Sr. Lt. Gen. Phan Van Giang. Tweeting after the meet, he said,"India and Vietnam continue to make forward movement in overcoming the challenges posed by COVID-19." India and Vietnam continue to make forward movement in overcoming the challenges posed by COVID-19. I thank my Vietnamese counterpart for inviting me on an official visit to his beautiful and amazing country. I look forward to it. 3/3 — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) July 1, 2021 ×

PM Modi, New Vietnam PM to speak on Saturday

<p>Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has thanked&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wishing him on his birthday.</p>

<p>Lama posted a&nbsp;video message in which he expressed his gratitude towards everyone wished him saying&nbsp;"Many of my friends expressed&nbsp;happy birthday. Here I want to take this opportunity to express to those people, my thanks."</p>

<p>"I want to thank my long time supporters and friends, and then many other people including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and many ministers and also chief ministers and a number of my Indian friends," he added.</p>

<p>Dalai Lama who had to left Tibet after the Chinese occupation in the 1950s said, "They sincerely expressed their&nbsp;congratulations&nbsp;on my birthday. So I very much appreciate this friendly expression."</p>

<p>On Tuesday, in a departure from the past, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama on his 86th birthday. &nbsp;In a tweet from his handle, he said, "Spoke on phone to His Holiness the @DalaiLama to convey greetings on his 86th birthday" and "We wish him a long and healthy life."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spoke on phone to His Holiness the <a href="https://twitter.com/DalaiLama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DalaiLama</a> to convey greetings on his 86th birthday. We wish him a long and healthy life.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1412310494870913032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While in the past Indian PM Modi has been congratulating Dalai Lama on his birthday, but never an announcement has been made, largely due to Chinese sensitivities. The announcement is seen as a message to Beijing even as China continues with provocative behavior at the Line of actual control in Ladakh.</p>

<p>Other political leaders in India have also wished Dalai Lama on his birthday. These are Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal, from the Indian Cabinet-- Road transport minister Nitin Gadkari, Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri.</p>


Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wishing him on his birthday. Lama posted a video message in which he expressed his gratitude towards everyone wished him saying "Many of my friends expressed happy birthday.

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama has thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for wishing him on his birthday. Lama posted a video message in which he expressed his gratitude towards everyone wished him saying "Many of my friends expressed happy birthday. Here I want to take this opportunity to express to those people, my thanks." "I want to thank my long time supporters and friends, and then many other people including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and many ministers and also chief ministers and a number of my Indian friends," he added. Dalai Lama who had to left Tibet after the Chinese occupation in the 1950s said, "They sincerely expressed their congratulations on my birthday. So I very much appreciate this friendly expression." On Tuesday, in a departure from the past, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama on his 86th birthday. In a tweet from his handle, he said, "Spoke on phone to His Holiness the @DalaiLama to convey greetings on his 86th birthday" and "We wish him a long and healthy life." Spoke on phone to His Holiness the @DalaiLama to convey greetings on his 86th birthday. We wish him a long and healthy life. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2021 × While in the past Indian PM Modi has been congratulating Dalai Lama on his birthday, but never an announcement has been made, largely due to Chinese sensitivities. The announcement is seen as a message to Beijing even as China continues with provocative behavior at the Line of actual control in Ladakh. Other political leaders in India have also wished Dalai Lama on his birthday. These are Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal, from the Indian Cabinet-- Road transport minister Nitin Gadkari, Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri.

Dalai Lama thanks Indian PM Modi for birthday wishes

<p>Have you ever believed that the wish you think of while blowing the candles on your birthday cake might come true? An Indian citizen had a Twitter surprise on Tuesday when Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his wishes as a reply to a playful tweet.</p>

<p>The account with the handle 'Dextro' responded to a birthday wish from a follower saying, "Dextrodiwas par please ask pm to wish me as you follows you both’ (Please ask PM to wish me on Dextrodiwas’).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thankyou ajit. Dextrodiwas par please ask pm to wish me as you follows you both 🤭</p>
— Dextro (@Dextrocardiac1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dextrocardiac1/status/1412330855603736592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>In what can be described as a rare happening, Dextro was soon surprised when Narendra Modi tweeted birthday greetings for Dextro&nbsp;after two hours.</p>

<p>"Happy Birthday...or as you are describing it - Dextrodiwas... :)," Modi tweeted. "Have a great year ahead."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday...or as you are describing it - Dextrodiwas... :)<br />
<br />
Have a great year ahead. <a href="https://t.co/X0Z5DrdMQ1">https://t.co/X0Z5DrdMQ1</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1412365595962580995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Surprised and shocked by these birthday greetings, Dextro returned the excitement and said, "I'm the luckiest human alive guys".</p>

<p>The tweet by the PM soon became viral on the social media platform, Twitter, and people flocked in telling Dextro how they wish they were in Dextro's place.</p>

<p>Twitterati flocked to Dextro's account to congratulate for the wishes extended by the PM and many have even joked about declaring July 6 as 'DextroDiwas'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Birthday...or as you are describing it - Dextrodiwas... :)<br />
<br />
Have a great year ahead. <a href="https://t.co/X0Z5DrdMQ1">https://t.co/X0Z5DrdMQ1</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1412365595962580995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji can you please wish me on 30th July too? It'll be life changing moment for me 😍<br />
<br />
Btw, you're the BEST PM of Bharat!!! Love you Modiji 🥰</p>
— Rohan Ikshvaku (@RohanIkshvaku) <a href="https://twitter.com/RohanIkshvaku/status/1412368925061369860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congrats congrats<br />
Biggest bday gift<br />
Photo frame bana lena didi <a href="https://t.co/NEf6RBA94F">pic.twitter.com/NEf6RBA94F</a></p>
— SenSe_Ex (@MenOfManu) <a href="https://twitter.com/MenOfManu/status/1412374020901593089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Screenshot lena bhoolna nahi 😌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DextroDiwas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DextroDiwas</a></p>
— Bhushan (@bhs7rocks) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhs7rocks/status/1412370957847523330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">💀 bro . Happy birthday 😐 . Modi ji humko bhi future ke liye all the best boldiye 🥺 jai hind</p>
— Ganesh (@Ganesh0000987) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ganesh0000987/status/1412370141023588358?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am so jealous right now😣</p>
— Akhila A (@AkhilaA29386214) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkhilaA29386214/status/1412368719964041217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Have you ever believed that the wish you think of while blowing the candles on your birthday cake might come true? An Indian citizen had a Twitter surprise on Tuesday when Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his wishes as a reply to a playful tweet.

Have you ever believed that the wish you think of while blowing the candles on your birthday cake might come true? An Indian citizen had a Twitter surprise on Tuesday when Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his wishes as a reply to a playful tweet. The account with the handle 'Dextro' responded to a birthday wish from a follower saying, "Dextrodiwas par please ask pm to wish me as you follows you both’ (Please ask PM to wish me on Dextrodiwas’). Thankyou ajit. Dextrodiwas par please ask pm to wish me as you follows you both 🤭 — Dextro (@Dextrocardiac1) July 6, 2021 × In what can be described as a rare happening, Dextro was soon surprised when Narendra Modi tweeted birthday greetings for Dextro after two hours. "Happy Birthday...or as you are describing it - Dextrodiwas... :)," Modi tweeted. "Have a great year ahead." Happy Birthday...or as you are describing it - Dextrodiwas... :) Have a great year ahead. https://t.co/X0Z5DrdMQ1 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2021 × Surprised and shocked by these birthday greetings, Dextro returned the excitement and said, "I'm the luckiest human alive guys". The tweet by the PM soon became viral on the social media platform, Twitter, and people flocked in telling Dextro how they wish they were in Dextro's place. Twitterati flocked to Dextro's account to congratulate for the wishes extended by the PM and many have even joked about declaring July 6 as 'DextroDiwas'. Happy Birthday...or as you are describing it - Dextrodiwas... :) Have a great year ahead. https://t.co/X0Z5DrdMQ1 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2021 × @narendramodi ji can you please wish me on 30th July too? It'll be life changing moment for me 😍 Btw, you're the BEST PM of Bharat!!! Love you Modiji 🥰 — Rohan Ikshvaku (@RohanIkshvaku) July 6, 2021 × Congrats congrats Biggest bday gift Photo frame bana lena didi pic.twitter.com/NEf6RBA94F — SenSe_Ex (@MenOfManu) July 6, 2021 × Screenshot lena bhoolna nahi 😌#DextroDiwas — Bhushan (@bhs7rocks) July 6, 2021 × 💀 bro . Happy birthday 😐 . Modi ji humko bhi future ke liye all the best boldiye 🥺 jai hind — Ganesh (@Ganesh0000987) July 6, 2021 × I am so jealous right now😣 — Akhila A (@AkhilaA29386214) July 6, 2021 ×

DextroDiwas: India's PM Modi tweets birthday wishes for a citizen

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