Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh,&nbsp;on his birth anniversary.

"My heartfelt homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a champion of human rights and freedom, on his birth anniversary. He is a hero for all Indians too. It will be my honour to visit Bangladesh later this month for the historic MujibBorsho celebrations," the prime minister tweeted.

PM Modi is scheduled to visit Dhaka on March 26 to attend celebrations of the golden jubilee of Bangladesh`s independence and the birth centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

The Bangladesh government will organi se a 10-day programme from March 17 to March 26 on the occasion.PM Modi was scheduled to attend the birth centenary celebrations of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman last year.

But his visit was called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Rahman was the first President and later the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. He was assassinated on August 15, 1975. Rahman is known as the "Father of the Nation" or simply "Mujib" in Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh, on his birth anniversary. "My heartfelt homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a champion of human rights and freedom, on his birth anniversary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh, on his birth anniversary. "My heartfelt homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a champion of human rights and freedom, on his birth anniversary. He is a hero for all Indians too. It will be my honour to visit Bangladesh later this month for the historic MujibBorsho celebrations," the prime minister tweeted. PM Modi is scheduled to visit Dhaka on March 26 to attend celebrations of the golden jubilee of Bangladesh`s independence and the birth centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The Bangladesh government will organi se a 10-day programme from March 17 to March 26 on the occasion.PM Modi was scheduled to attend the birth centenary celebrations of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman last year. But his visit was called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Rahman was the first President and later the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. He was assassinated on August 15, 1975. Rahman is known as the "Father of the Nation" or simply "Mujib" in Bangladesh.

PM Modi pays homage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on his birth anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-homage-to-bangabandhu-sheikh-mujibur-rahman-on-his-birth-anniversary-371043">Modi</a> on Wednesday chaired a meeting with all state chief ministers as India witnesses a sudden spike in coronavirus cases.

"Most of the COVID-affected countries in the world had to face several waves of the virus. In our country too, cases have suddenly started increasing in some states," PM Modi said.

"CMs have also expressed concern...test positivity rate in Maharashtra &amp; MP is very high &amp; the number of cases are also rising," India's prime minister said.

In the last 24 hours, India reported 28,903 new coronavirus cases, according to the health ministry, out of these&nbsp;nearly 17,864 new cases have been reported in Maharashtra alone.

The recent spike in cases has taken India's overall case count to over 11.43 million.

"Today in India more than 96 per cent of the cases have recovered. India is one of those countries where the fatality rate is one of the lowest," the Indian PM said during the meeting.

"Increase is being seen in many districts that had protected themselves so far and were kind of safe zones. Seventy districts have seen an increase of more than 150 per cent in the last few weeks. If we don't stop it, a situation of nationwide outbreak can come up," the PM told the CMs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired a meeting with all state chief ministers as India witnesses a sudden spike in coronavirus cases. "Most of the COVID-affected countries in the world had to face several waves of the virus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday chaired a meeting with all state chief ministers as India witnesses a sudden spike in coronavirus cases. "Most of the COVID-affected countries in the world had to face several waves of the virus. In our country too, cases have suddenly started increasing in some states," PM Modi said. "CMs have also expressed concern...test positivity rate in Maharashtra & MP is very high & the number of cases are also rising," India's prime minister said. In the last 24 hours, India reported 28,903 new coronavirus cases, according to the health ministry, out of these nearly 17,864 new cases have been reported in Maharashtra alone. The recent spike in cases has taken India's overall case count to over 11.43 million. "Today in India more than 96 per cent of the cases have recovered. India is one of those countries where the fatality rate is one of the lowest," the Indian PM said during the meeting. "Increase is being seen in many districts that had protected themselves so far and were kind of safe zones. Seventy districts have seen an increase of more than 150 per cent in the last few weeks. If we don't stop it, a situation of nationwide outbreak can come up," the PM told the CMs.

PM Modi addresses CMs on COVID-19 amid spike in cases

The leaders of the Quad countries -- India, Australia, Japan and the United States -- have pledged to work with other countries who share the same goals, and to ensure that Covid vaccines are administered throughout the region till 2022. They also reiterated their commitment to a free and secure Indo-Pacific region.

The Quad, a strategic forum comprising India, Japan, Australia and the United States of America, held its first-ever head of states meet virtually on Friday.

In a jointly-authored opinion article for The Washington Post, US President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, wrote that "the Quad" was born in crisis. It became a diplomatic dialogue in 2007 and was reborn in 2017.

“Over the course of these past months, each of us has grieved the suffering that our people and the world have endured. But in this dark hour, our partnership offers a spark of hope to light the path ahead,” the leaders wrote in the joint Op-Ed published in the Washington Post.

"Against this backdrop, we are recommitting to a shared vision for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, resilient and inclusive. We are striving to ensure that the Indo-Pacific is accessible and dynamic, governed by international law and bedrock principles such as freedom of navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes and that all countries are able to make their own political choices, free from coercion. In recent years, that vision has increasingly been tested," they added.

The article listed the announcements made on Friday, and much of what appeared in the joint statement and the fact sheet that were released after the summit.&nbsp;

The group also recalled the history of the grouping from being founded in the aftermath of the 2004 Tsunami and being turned into a dialogue in 2007 to being reborn in 2017.

The four leaders said that the trials have only strengthened "our resolve" to reckon with the most urgent of global challenges together.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g7-meet-in-uk-could-witness-first-in-person-quad-meet-370276">Also read |&nbsp;G7 meet in UK could witness first in-person Quad meet</a>

"To strengthen our quest for a region that is open and free, we have agreed to partner to address the challenges presented by new technologies and collaborate to set the norms and standards that govern the innovations of the future. It is clear that climate change is both a strategic priority and an urgent global challenge, including for the Indo-Pacific region," the leaders' op-ed read further adding that the four countries would work together and with others to strengthen the Paris agreement and enhance the climate actions of all nations.

Launching the "ambitious efforts" to help end the Covid pandemic, the countries pledged "to expand and accelerate production" in India of safe, accessible and effective vaccines.

"We will partner at each stage to ensure that vaccines are administered throughout the Indo-Pacific region into 2022. We will combine our scientific ingenuity, financing, formidable productive capacity and long history of global-health partnership to surge the supply of life-saving vaccines, in close collaboration with multilateral organisations including the World Health Organisation and Covax Facility," the leaders wrote."We will renew and strengthen our partnerships in Southeast Asia, starting with the Association for Southeast Asian Nations, work with the Pacific Islands, and engage the Indian Ocean region to meet this moment.&nbsp;

"The Quad is a flexible group of like-minded partners dedicated to advancing a common vision and to ensuring peace and prosperity. We welcome and will seek opportunities to work with all of those who share in those goals," the article read.

The leaders stated that the four countries' foundations of democracy and a commitment to engagement "unite us".

"We know we can provide for the safety and prosperity of our people at home by confronting global crises together, with purpose and resolve. We summon from tragedy the strength and resilience to unify and overcome. And we recommit ourselves, once again, to an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, secure and prosperous," the leaders wrote.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-member-countries-to-be-part-of-france-led-joint-exercises-370267">Also read |&nbsp;QUAD member countries to be part of France-led joint exercises</a>

Indo-Pacific region is largely viewed as an area comprising the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean, including the South China Sea.China`s territorial claims in the South China Sea and its efforts to advance into the Indian Ocean are seen to have challenged the established rules-based system.

China claims much of the South China Sea, but there are also overlapping claims by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam.

China has built bases and other outposts on shoals, reefs and rock outcroppings to deepen its claim over 80 per cent of the 3.6 sq km waterway, with Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan claim parts of the same area. 
&nbsp;

The leaders of the Quad countries -- India, Australia, Japan and the United States -- have pledged to work with other countries who share the same goals, and to ensure that Covid vaccines are administered throughout the region till 2022.

The leaders of the Quad countries -- India, Australia, Japan and the United States -- have pledged to work with other countries who share the same goals, and to ensure that Covid vaccines are administered throughout the region till 2022. They also reiterated their commitment to a free and secure Indo-Pacific region. The Quad, a strategic forum comprising India, Japan, Australia and the United States of America, held its first-ever head of states meet virtually on Friday. In a jointly-authored opinion article for The Washington Post, US President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, wrote that "the Quad" was born in crisis. It became a diplomatic dialogue in 2007 and was reborn in 2017. “Over the course of these past months, each of us has grieved the suffering that our people and the world have endured. But in this dark hour, our partnership offers a spark of hope to light the path ahead,” the leaders wrote in the joint Op-Ed published in the Washington Post. "Against this backdrop, we are recommitting to a shared vision for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, resilient and inclusive. We are striving to ensure that the Indo-Pacific is accessible and dynamic, governed by international law and bedrock principles such as freedom of navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes and that all countries are able to make their own political choices, free from coercion. In recent years, that vision has increasingly been tested," they added. The article listed the announcements made on Friday, and much of what appeared in the joint statement and the fact sheet that were released after the summit. The group also recalled the history of the grouping from being founded in the aftermath of the 2004 Tsunami and being turned into a dialogue in 2007 to being reborn in 2017. The four leaders said that the trials have only strengthened "our resolve" to reckon with the most urgent of global challenges together. Also read | G7 meet in UK could witness first in-person Quad meet "To strengthen our quest for a region that is open and free, we have agreed to partner to address the challenges presented by new technologies and collaborate to set the norms and standards that govern the innovations of the future. It is clear that climate change is both a strategic priority and an urgent global challenge, including for the Indo-Pacific region," the leaders' op-ed read further adding that the four countries would work together and with others to strengthen the Paris agreement and enhance the climate actions of all nations. Launching the "ambitious efforts" to help end the Covid pandemic, the countries pledged "to expand and accelerate production" in India of safe, accessible and effective vaccines. "We will partner at each stage to ensure that vaccines are administered throughout the Indo-Pacific region into 2022. We will combine our scientific ingenuity, financing, formidable productive capacity and long history of global-health partnership to surge the supply of life-saving vaccines, in close collaboration with multilateral organisations including the World Health Organisation and Covax Facility," the leaders wrote."We will renew and strengthen our partnerships in Southeast Asia, starting with the Association for Southeast Asian Nations, work with the Pacific Islands, and engage the Indian Ocean region to meet this moment. "The Quad is a flexible group of like-minded partners dedicated to advancing a common vision and to ensuring peace and prosperity. We welcome and will seek opportunities to work with all of those who share in those goals," the article read. The leaders stated that the four countries' foundations of democracy and a commitment to engagement "unite us". "We know we can provide for the safety and prosperity of our people at home by confronting global crises together, with purpose and resolve. We summon from tragedy the strength and resilience to unify and overcome. And we recommit ourselves, once again, to an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, secure and prosperous," the leaders wrote. Also read | QUAD member countries to be part of France-led joint exercises Indo-Pacific region is largely viewed as an area comprising the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean, including the South China Sea.China`s territorial claims in the South China Sea and its efforts to advance into the Indian Ocean are seen to have challenged the established rules-based system. China claims much of the South China Sea, but there are also overlapping claims by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam. China has built bases and other outposts on shoals, reefs and rock outcroppings to deepen its claim over 80 per cent of the 3.6 sq km waterway, with Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan claim parts of the same area.

Biden, Modi, Morrison and Suga pen joint op-ed, say Quad offers 'spark of hope'

The first Quad in-person meeting could happen on the sidelines of the G7 summit that will take place in the United Kingdom&nbsp;from 11th-13th June 2021. The Quad has US President Joe Biden, India's PM Narendra Modi, Australian PM Scott Morrison and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga as its members. The group met last week at the leaders level for the first time, but the meet was virtual amid the covid pandemic.

The G7 summit will happen in Carbis Bay, Cornwall and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson who is the chair of the grouping for 2021 has invited Indian PM Narendra Modi and Australian PM Scott Morrison to attend it. G7 will be for the first-time leaders of all these countries will be together physically. While the UK could oversee the Quad meet, the US is keen on hosting the first in-person meet as well.&nbsp;

Last week's leadership summit saw a major announcement with the Quad Covid Vaccine initiative, seen as major practical cooperation between the members of the grouping. Basically, American vaccines will be produced by India, financed by the US and Japan, and provided logistical support by Australia. These vaccines will be given to countries in the Indo-Pacific, the first being the countries in South East Asia.&nbsp;

Japan, through JICA, is in discussions to provide concessional yen loans for the Indian govt to expand manufacturing for COVID-19 vaccines for export. The US&nbsp;International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) will work with Hyderabad-based Indian manufacturer Biological E to increase its capacity to produce at least 1 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of 2022.

The group comes together at a time of increased Chinese aggressiveness from Line of Actual Control row with India, issues with Japan over Senkaku Island, trade tiff with Australia and the US. While China obviously wasn't mentioned in the first-ever joint statement, it did call for "a region that is free, open, inclusive, healthy, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion."

The statement mentioned&nbsp;prioritising the "role of international law in the maritime domain, particularly as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)" and ".. to meet challenges to the rules-based maritime order in the East and South China Seas". China has been known to not only violate UNCLOS but also based on its nine-dash line policy claiming the entire south china sea, much to the dismay of the members of ASEAN grouping.&nbsp;

The first Quad in-person meeting could happen on the sidelines of the G7 summit that will take place in the United Kingdom from 11th-13th June 2021. The Quad has US President Joe Biden, India's PM Narendra Modi, Australian PM Scott Morrison and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga as its members.

The first Quad in-person meeting could happen on the sidelines of the G7 summit that will take place in the United Kingdom from 11th-13th June 2021. The Quad has US President Joe Biden, India's PM Narendra Modi, Australian PM Scott Morrison and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga as its members. The group met last week at the leaders level for the first time, but the meet was virtual amid the covid pandemic. The G7 summit will happen in Carbis Bay, Cornwall and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson who is the chair of the grouping for 2021 has invited Indian PM Narendra Modi and Australian PM Scott Morrison to attend it. G7 will be for the first-time leaders of all these countries will be together physically. While the UK could oversee the Quad meet, the US is keen on hosting the first in-person meet as well. Last week's leadership summit saw a major announcement with the Quad Covid Vaccine initiative, seen as major practical cooperation between the members of the grouping. Basically, American vaccines will be produced by India, financed by the US and Japan, and provided logistical support by Australia. These vaccines will be given to countries in the Indo-Pacific, the first being the countries in South East Asia. Japan, through JICA, is in discussions to provide concessional yen loans for the Indian govt to expand manufacturing for COVID-19 vaccines for export. The US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) will work with Hyderabad-based Indian manufacturer Biological E to increase its capacity to produce at least 1 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of 2022. The group comes together at a time of increased Chinese aggressiveness from Line of Actual Control row with India, issues with Japan over Senkaku Island, trade tiff with Australia and the US. While China obviously wasn't mentioned in the first-ever joint statement, it did call for "a region that is free, open, inclusive, healthy, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion." The statement mentioned prioritising the "role of international law in the maritime domain, particularly as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)" and ".. to meet challenges to the rules-based maritime order in the East and South China Seas". China has been known to not only violate UNCLOS but also based on its nine-dash line policy claiming the entire south china sea, much to the dismay of the members of ASEAN grouping.

G7 meet in UK could witness first in-person Quad meet

Ahead of a crucial vote at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Sri Lanka has sought India's support and has dialled PM Narendra Modi. UNHRC vote was one of the key points discussed during the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Saturday. Voting will take place on the 22nd and 23rd of March on a resolution against Sri Lanka at the Human Rights Council.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is facing the heat at UN HRC over human rights violations during the civil war with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The 46th session of the UNHRC is underway and will continue till 23rd March and several times matters related to Sri Lanka have been raised.

Last month after the report of the office of the High commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka was placed, India's envoy to UN in Geneva, Indra Mani Pandey said while, "assessment of the high commissioner...raises important concern" the "Sri Lankan govt has articulated its position" and the "evaluation of both of these, we should be guided by a commitment to find a lasting and effective solution".&nbsp;

During the same statement he called for respecting the "rights of the Tamil community, including through meaningful devolution" and said that this "contributes directly to the unity and integrity of Sri Lanka". This is not for the first time Sri Lanka has requested Indian support on UNHRC.

The telephonic conversation, that took place at the request of Sri Lanka also saw discussions on the COVID crisis. A statement by the Indian Prime Ministers' office said, that the leaders reviewed "topical developments and the ongoing cooperation between both countries in bilateral and multilateral forums". Both sides agreed to "maintain regular contact between relevant officials" which includes in the context of the "continuing COVID-19 challenges."

It further added, that, "Prime Minister reiterated the importance of Sri Lanka to India's Neighbourhood First policy."

India has so far sent Sri Lanka 12.64 doses of India-made COVID vaccines. Of these, 5 lakh doses have been gifted, 5 lakhs sent commercially, and 2.64 lakh via COVAX.

Ahead of a crucial vote at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Sri Lanka has sought India's support and has dialled PM Narendra Modi. UNHRC vote was one of the key points discussed during the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Saturday.

Ahead of a crucial vote at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Sri Lanka has sought India's support and has dialled PM Narendra Modi. UNHRC vote was one of the key points discussed during the telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Saturday. Voting will take place on the 22nd and 23rd of March on a resolution against Sri Lanka at the Human Rights Council. Sri Lanka is facing the heat at UN HRC over human rights violations during the civil war with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The 46th session of the UNHRC is underway and will continue till 23rd March and several times matters related to Sri Lanka have been raised. Last month after the report of the office of the High commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka was placed, India's envoy to UN in Geneva, Indra Mani Pandey said while, "assessment of the high commissioner...raises important concern" the "Sri Lankan govt has articulated its position" and the "evaluation of both of these, we should be guided by a commitment to find a lasting and effective solution". During the same statement he called for respecting the "rights of the Tamil community, including through meaningful devolution" and said that this "contributes directly to the unity and integrity of Sri Lanka". This is not for the first time Sri Lanka has requested Indian support on UNHRC. The telephonic conversation, that took place at the request of Sri Lanka also saw discussions on the COVID crisis. A statement by the Indian Prime Ministers' office said, that the leaders reviewed "topical developments and the ongoing cooperation between both countries in bilateral and multilateral forums". Both sides agreed to "maintain regular contact between relevant officials" which includes in the context of the "continuing COVID-19 challenges." It further added, that, "Prime Minister reiterated the importance of Sri Lanka to India's Neighbourhood First policy." India has so far sent Sri Lanka 12.64 doses of India-made COVID vaccines. Of these, 5 lakh doses have been gifted, 5 lakhs sent commercially, and 2.64 lakh via COVAX.

Ahead of UNHRC vote, Sri Lanka seeks India's support

It was long overdue, and has finally happened. The Quad met today for its first ever summit. 
&nbsp; 
This is an extremely significant geopolitical event. It will shape the strategic alliances of our world.

The Quad has four members: the United States, Australia,&nbsp;Japan and India. Leaders from all four countries came together for a virtual summit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Before this, the highest level engagement was that of ministers. Foreign ministers of all four countries have met thrice in the last three&nbsp;years, twice in person and once virtually.

Each time, they failed to issue a joint statement. They came up with separate statements.&nbsp;And they spoke in different tones. This is the first time&nbsp;the Quad is trying to speak in one voice.

 
We'll decode the first ever Quad summit, what was discussed, what will be done next.

Will the quad become more than a talking shop? And what will this alliance mean for India?

We'll discuss all this and more. First, let's talk about what happened today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The meeting was virtual.&nbsp;For US President Joe Biden, this was the first high level engagement since he assumed office in January. With him was Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;The meeting was initiated by Washington. That should tell you how much importance the US Attaches to the Quad. &nbsp;

Other leaders in attendance were Japan’s Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Quad has potential. What it lacked so far, is political will.

The alliance failed to spell out specific goals.&nbsp;Tonight, that wasn't the case. Even before the summit began, all four countries had a clear agenda.

Securing free and open access to Indo-Pacific, the supply of vaccines--a&nbsp;priority considering the pandemic-and&nbsp;resilient supply and production chains. The opening remarks touched upon these themes. The focus was the Indo-Pacific.

All four leaders made a mention of it, and for obvious reasons.

The last year&nbsp;saw China's military aggression in the region: The border standoff in Ladakh, the provocations in Taiwan and South China Sea and around the Senkaku Islands near Japan.

Earlier this week,&nbsp;we told you about America's military assessment on the Indo-Pacific. America's top commander called China "the greatest long-term strategic threat to security".

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about a free and open Indo-Pacific.&nbsp; And India's commitment to democratic values.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All Quad allies are robust democracies. Upholding a commitment to democracy is a clear message to China. The next issue was vaccines. China is trying to push its vaccines. Even though they're unreliable.&nbsp;&nbsp;

China says it will donate vaccines to 69 developing countries. And it is exporting vaccines to 43 countries. The Quad needs to balance the scales. Reports say it has planned financing agreements to boost manufacturing in India. Meaning they'll pour in money to make in India.

These are deals for drugmakers to make their shots in India. US President Joe Biden said vaccines will drive global growth this year.

The next issue is supply chains. Remember, China controls supply chains. The pandemic taught us why the world must diversify. The Quad today focused on the supply of rare earths. These four countries plan to build a rare earth procurement chain.

Rare earths are crucial elements. They build in practically everything we use today. And will use in the future. From smartphones to computers and batteries, rare earths are used in all. Right now, China produces nearly 60 per cent of the world's rare earths.

It controls the supply. Which means&nbsp;it can also dictate the international rules for future technologies.

The Quad wants to break the monopoly.&nbsp;So the tone is now set.

While the leaders didn't mention China, the three issues they picked up sent a clear message to Beijing:&nbsp;A free and open Indo-Pacific, vaccines, and&nbsp;global supply chains.

The Quad will confront China on all three fronts.

The timing of this Qad summit is significant. Top officials from the United States and China are meeting next week in Alaska. This is the first bilateral engagement of the Biden administration. The Quad has firmed up its alliance, just before those discussions.

And as we discuss the future of the Quad, we must also take some lessons from its past. The Quad has informally existed for 16 long years. But it has failed to go beyond being a talking shop.

Quad member nations have met in the past. They've made promises. Held naval exercises. But done little to achieve their core strategic purpose.&nbsp;Of containing China's influence in the Indo-Pacific.

How will it be different this time?

It emerged in 2004. It was formalised in 2007. It lay dormant for the next 10 years.&nbsp;Then it was revived in 2017. But it was in 2020 that the Quad arrived at a turning point.&nbsp;And in 2021, it assembled for the first time at the leader level. This historic gathering could change Asian geopolitics.

But does it intend to? The Quad has been toiling for the last 16 years. The principle aim of this body was strategic, to maintain the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

But for 16 years,&nbsp;the Quad has failed to go beyond being a talking shop.&nbsp;Its promises did not translate into action on ground.

Will it be the same this time?&nbsp;Not really. Four clear and&nbsp;specific areas of cooperation have been identified this time. They will be at the centre of the Quad's future operations.

The first is maritime security and&nbsp;cooperation. Considerable headway was made in this area during the Trump administration. All four countries took part in the Malabar Exercise last year. This year, expanded cooperation involving the Quad and&nbsp;non-Quad members is on the cards.

Reports already indicate that France and the UAE will be joining hands with the Quad for naval exercises. This is being seen as a signal to China to adhere to international norms.

The second area of collaboration will be on covid-19 related issues. From the beginning of this pandemic, India's approach has been global. From rescuing foreign expats trapped in distant countries&nbsp;to nursing the world through its vaccine diplomacy, India has contributed immensely in the fight against Covid-19.

Reports say the Quad is looking to launch an expansive vaccine programme where vaccines will be developed in the US manufactured in India, financed by Japan and supported by Australia.

The cooperation will be stepped up to counter China's growing influence in countries hit hard by the pandemic.

The third area of cooperation is climate change. It has been gaining momentum in Joe Biden's domestic and&nbsp;foreign policy agenda.

This is one area where the Quad will try to corner China into delivering more. Working groups for climate change are expected to be announced soon.

The last area of economic and&nbsp;technological cooperation is of special significance. It indirectly recognises China as an economic and technological threat.

China, which produces 60% of the world's rare earths will see tough competition.

As the Quad joins hands to build a rare earth procurement chain and counter China's dominance,&nbsp;the Quad will also look to dent China's technological influence.

With investments in emerging and&nbsp;critical defence technologies,&nbsp;the Global Times has reported&nbsp;that the Quad could further contain Chinese tech giant Huawei. 
&nbsp; 
China will be the central theme of all of Quad's initiatives but the references are oblique. The leaders have met.

Will they put their money where their mouth is?&nbsp;

Is it just an anti-china coalition?

What does the quad mean for India?

Five things. One:&nbsp;a strategic win. Two: a boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).&nbsp;Three: a global leadership role. Four: pushing multilateralism.&nbsp;And five:&nbsp;it will help India become a blue economy.

We'll take these one by one.&nbsp;First, it's a step towards India's strategic goals.

India wants a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;India looks at the Indo-Pacific as a single, strategic construct.&nbsp;

What is the Indo-Pacific?&nbsp;The region linking the waters of the Western Pacific and the Indian Ocean.

In the Quad, India gets a grouping of like-minded nations. A group that is ready to defend the laws of high seas.&nbsp;Second, the Quad will help India rebuild its supply chains, reduce the dependence on China.

Consider this: all the Quad members have one thing in common. They disagree with Chinese military aggression. But no Quad member&nbsp;has been able to drag China to court for militarising the South China Sea.

You know who went to court?&nbsp;The Philippines. Not Japan, not even Australia. Neither the US,&nbsp;nor India. &nbsp;

Why?&nbsp;Because all these countries, like the rest of the world, rely heavily on China for trade.

And that's dangerous. China can weaponise trade. The pandemic has shown us how. China can weaponise essential drugs, medical equipment, ventilators. So the world wants to break away from China.

India wants to be self-reliant. The Quad can enable that. Third, the Quad is an opportunity for India to shape the emerging world order. And this can only be done with the help of strategic relations. Quad is India's opportunity for cementing ties with the world's most prominent democracies. The US already acknowledges India as a 'major defence partner'.

In 2016, India and the US signed LE MoA,&nbsp;or the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement.&nbsp;In 2020, an American military aircraft refuelled at India's strategic base in Andaman and Nicobar islands for the first time.

India has also signed an agreement with Australia on mutual logistics support. The Quad takes these strategic ties a step further.

Fourth: the Quad is India's opportunity to push for multilateralism. Quad meetings have recently been attended by three more Indo-Pacific countries.

New Zealand, South Korea and Vietnam.

Countries like New Zealand&nbsp;have long been reluctant to be perceived as anti-China. The pandemic has changed that. The strengthening, expansion and distribution of power works in favour of India.

Fifth:&nbsp;Quad is also a step towards India's dream of becoming a blue economy.

India is accelerating efforts in that direction.&nbsp;Be it cargo, or commerce. India recently hosted a virtual maritime summit. It is improving port facilities at home, developing strategic ports abroad, be it the Chabahar in Iran&nbsp;or the Kaladan project in Myanmar. India is also modernising facilities in the Andaman islands.&nbsp;A plan worth 56.5 billion rupees was finalised in 2019.

It allows for additional warships, troops, aircraft and drones to be stationed in the Andaman and Nicobar islands. India has also commissioned a new naval station- INS&nbsp;Kohassa in the islands.

India wants to be a top maritime economy. But it won't be possible without the cooperation of other maritime powers. This is where the Quad becomes very crucial.

Finally... China.

There is of course, the &nbsp;need to counter China. Its hard and soft powers.

There is no denying it's China's actions that have brought the Quad closer. The militarising of islands in South China Sea, the creating of artificial ones, the exporting of the Wuhan virus, China's muscle flexing in Ladakh, the death of 20 Indian soldiers.

Chinese aggression against Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam and Malaysia,&nbsp;China's quashing of Hong Kong's autonomy.

 
The list is long.&nbsp;It took all of these&nbsp;to finally get the four countries to hold joint military exercises, the 2020 Malabar Exercises. They say nothing makes friends like a common enemy. China is of course the binding factor of the Quad. But for India, the Quad is much more than&nbsp;just China.

It was long overdue, and has finally happened. The Quad met today for its first ever summit. This is an extremely significant geopolitical event. It will shape the strategic alliances of our world.

It was long overdue, and has finally happened. The Quad met today for its first ever summit. This is an extremely significant geopolitical event. It will shape the strategic alliances of our world. The Quad has four members: the United States, Australia, Japan and India. Leaders from all four countries came together for a virtual summit. Before this, the highest level engagement was that of ministers. Foreign ministers of all four countries have met thrice in the last three years, twice in person and once virtually. Each time, they failed to issue a joint statement. They came up with separate statements. And they spoke in different tones. This is the first time the Quad is trying to speak in one voice. We'll decode the first ever Quad summit, what was discussed, what will be done next. Will the quad become more than a talking shop? And what will this alliance mean for India? We'll discuss all this and more. First, let's talk about what happened today. The meeting was virtual. For US President Joe Biden, this was the first high level engagement since he assumed office in January. With him was Vice President Kamala Harris. The meeting was initiated by Washington. That should tell you how much importance the US Attaches to the Quad. Other leaders in attendance were Japan’s Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Quad has potential. What it lacked so far, is political will. The alliance failed to spell out specific goals. Tonight, that wasn't the case. Even before the summit began, all four countries had a clear agenda. Securing free and open access to Indo-Pacific, the supply of vaccines--a priority considering the pandemic-and resilient supply and production chains. The opening remarks touched upon these themes. The focus was the Indo-Pacific. All four leaders made a mention of it, and for obvious reasons. The last year saw China's military aggression in the region: The border standoff in Ladakh, the provocations in Taiwan and South China Sea and around the Senkaku Islands near Japan. Earlier this week, we told you about America's military assessment on the Indo-Pacific. America's top commander called China "the greatest long-term strategic threat to security". India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about a free and open Indo-Pacific. And India's commitment to democratic values. All Quad allies are robust democracies. Upholding a commitment to democracy is a clear message to China. The next issue was vaccines. China is trying to push its vaccines. Even though they're unreliable. China says it will donate vaccines to 69 developing countries. And it is exporting vaccines to 43 countries. The Quad needs to balance the scales. Reports say it has planned financing agreements to boost manufacturing in India. Meaning they'll pour in money to make in India. These are deals for drugmakers to make their shots in India. US President Joe Biden said vaccines will drive global growth this year. The next issue is supply chains. Remember, China controls supply chains. The pandemic taught us why the world must diversify. The Quad today focused on the supply of rare earths. These four countries plan to build a rare earth procurement chain. Rare earths are crucial elements. They build in practically everything we use today. And will use in the future. From smartphones to computers and batteries, rare earths are used in all. Right now, China produces nearly 60 per cent of the world's rare earths. It controls the supply. Which means it can also dictate the international rules for future technologies. The Quad wants to break the monopoly. So the tone is now set. While the leaders didn't mention China, the three issues they picked up sent a clear message to Beijing: A free and open Indo-Pacific, vaccines, and global supply chains. The Quad will confront China on all three fronts. The timing of this Qad summit is significant. Top officials from the United States and China are meeting next week in Alaska. This is the first bilateral engagement of the Biden administration. The Quad has firmed up its alliance, just before those discussions. And as we discuss the future of the Quad, we must also take some lessons from its past. The Quad has informally existed for 16 long years. But it has failed to go beyond being a talking shop. Quad member nations have met in the past. They've made promises. Held naval exercises. But done little to achieve their core strategic purpose. Of containing China's influence in the Indo-Pacific. How will it be different this time? It emerged in 2004. It was formalised in 2007. It lay dormant for the next 10 years. Then it was revived in 2017. But it was in 2020 that the Quad arrived at a turning point. And in 2021, it assembled for the first time at the leader level. This historic gathering could change Asian geopolitics. But does it intend to? The Quad has been toiling for the last 16 years. The principle aim of this body was strategic, to maintain the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. But for 16 years, the Quad has failed to go beyond being a talking shop. Its promises did not translate into action on ground. Will it be the same this time? Not really. Four clear and specific areas of cooperation have been identified this time. They will be at the centre of the Quad's future operations. The first is maritime security and cooperation. Considerable headway was made in this area during the Trump administration. All four countries took part in the Malabar Exercise last year. This year, expanded cooperation involving the Quad and non-Quad members is on the cards. Reports already indicate that France and the UAE will be joining hands with the Quad for naval exercises. This is being seen as a signal to China to adhere to international norms. The second area of collaboration will be on covid-19 related issues. From the beginning of this pandemic, India's approach has been global. From rescuing foreign expats trapped in distant countries to nursing the world through its vaccine diplomacy, India has contributed immensely in the fight against Covid-19. Reports say the Quad is looking to launch an expansive vaccine programme where vaccines will be developed in the US manufactured in India, financed by Japan and supported by Australia. The cooperation will be stepped up to counter China's growing influence in countries hit hard by the pandemic. The third area of cooperation is climate change. It has been gaining momentum in Joe Biden's domestic and foreign policy agenda. This is one area where the Quad will try to corner China into delivering more. Working groups for climate change are expected to be announced soon. The last area of economic and technological cooperation is of special significance. It indirectly recognises China as an economic and technological threat. China, which produces 60% of the world's rare earths will see tough competition. As the Quad joins hands to build a rare earth procurement chain and counter China's dominance, the Quad will also look to dent China's technological influence. With investments in emerging and critical defence technologies, the Global Times has reported that the Quad could further contain Chinese tech giant Huawei. China will be the central theme of all of Quad's initiatives but the references are oblique. The leaders have met. Will they put their money where their mouth is? Is it just an anti-china coalition? What does the quad mean for India? Five things. One: a strategic win. Two: a boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). Three: a global leadership role. Four: pushing multilateralism. And five: it will help India become a blue economy. We'll take these one by one. First, it's a step towards India's strategic goals. India wants a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. India looks at the Indo-Pacific as a single, strategic construct. What is the Indo-Pacific? The region linking the waters of the Western Pacific and the Indian Ocean. In the Quad, India gets a grouping of like-minded nations. A group that is ready to defend the laws of high seas. Second, the Quad will help India rebuild its supply chains, reduce the dependence on China. Consider this: all the Quad members have one thing in common. They disagree with Chinese military aggression. But no Quad member has been able to drag China to court for militarising the South China Sea. You know who went to court? The Philippines. Not Japan, not even Australia. Neither the US, nor India. Why? Because all these countries, like the rest of the world, rely heavily on China for trade. And that's dangerous. China can weaponise trade. The pandemic has shown us how. China can weaponise essential drugs, medical equipment, ventilators. So the world wants to break away from China. India wants to be self-reliant. The Quad can enable that. Third, the Quad is an opportunity for India to shape the emerging world order. And this can only be done with the help of strategic relations. Quad is India's opportunity for cementing ties with the world's most prominent democracies. The US already acknowledges India as a 'major defence partner'. In 2016, India and the US signed LE MoA, or the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement. In 2020, an American military aircraft refuelled at India's strategic base in Andaman and Nicobar islands for the first time. India has also signed an agreement with Australia on mutual logistics support. The Quad takes these strategic ties a step further. Fourth: the Quad is India's opportunity to push for multilateralism. Quad meetings have recently been attended by three more Indo-Pacific countries. New Zealand, South Korea and Vietnam. Countries like New Zealand have long been reluctant to be perceived as anti-China. The pandemic has changed that. The strengthening, expansion and distribution of power works in favour of India. Fifth: Quad is also a step towards India's dream of becoming a blue economy. India is accelerating efforts in that direction. Be it cargo, or commerce. India recently hosted a virtual maritime summit. It is improving port facilities at home, developing strategic ports abroad, be it the Chabahar in Iran or the Kaladan project in Myanmar. India is also modernising facilities in the Andaman islands. A plan worth 56.5 billion rupees was finalised in 2019. It allows for additional warships, troops, aircraft and drones to be stationed in the Andaman and Nicobar islands. India has also commissioned a new naval station- INS Kohassa in the islands. India wants to be a top maritime economy. But it won't be possible without the cooperation of other maritime powers. This is where the Quad becomes very crucial. Finally... China. There is of course, the need to counter China. Its hard and soft powers. There is no denying it's China's actions that have brought the Quad closer. The militarising of islands in South China Sea, the creating of artificial ones, the exporting of the Wuhan virus, China's muscle flexing in Ladakh, the death of 20 Indian soldiers. Chinese aggression against Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam and Malaysia, China's quashing of Hong Kong's autonomy. The list is long. It took all of these to finally get the four countries to hold joint military exercises, the 2020 Malabar Exercises. They say nothing makes friends like a common enemy. China is of course the binding factor of the Quad. But for India, the Quad is much more than just China.

Quad leaders hold much-awaited summit, but what is different now?

With a focus on practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and Covid vaccine supplies, the first-ever Quad summit will take place on Friday. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Australian PM Scott Morrison, and Japanese PM&nbsp;Yoshihide Suga will meet virtually at 7 pm IST.

India's Ministry of External Affairs said the summit "will provide an opportunity to exchange views on contemporary challenges such as resilient supply chains, emerging and critical technologies, maritime security&nbsp;and climate change."

The&nbsp;leaders "will discuss ongoing efforts to combat Covid-19 pandemic and explore opportunities for collaboration in ensuring safe, equitable and affordable vaccines in the Indo-Pacific region," it said in a statement.

Quad, short for Quadrilateral Security Dialogue,&nbsp;first came into existence after the 2004 tsunami and was first formalised in 2007. At that time, Australia had issues&nbsp;with the grouping, which again held a meeting a decade later in 2017 at the official level. Since 2019, Quad has had conversations at the foreign ministers' level, thrice.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said, "That President Biden has made this one of his earliest multilateral engagements speaks to the importance we place on close cooperation with our allies and partners in the Indo- Pacific."&nbsp;

"A range of issues, of course, will be discussed — we expect to be discussed, I should say — facing the global community from the threat of Covid, to economic cooperation, and of course, to the climate crisis," she told reporters.

The Quad meeting comes at a time of increased Chinese aggressiveness, not only in the region but with Quad member countries as well. Beijing has locked horns with Australia and the US on the trade front, Japan over&nbsp;Senkaku islands, and is engaged in a border standoff with India, that has seen disengagement at one area so far.

With a focus on practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and Covid vaccine supplies, the first-ever Quad summit will take place on Friday. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Australian PM Scott Morrison, and Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga will meet virtually at 7 pm IST.

With a focus on practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and Covid vaccine supplies, the first-ever Quad summit will take place on Friday. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Australian PM Scott Morrison, and Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga will meet virtually at 7 pm IST. India's Ministry of External Affairs said the summit "will provide an opportunity to exchange views on contemporary challenges such as resilient supply chains, emerging and critical technologies, maritime security and climate change." The leaders "will discuss ongoing efforts to combat Covid-19 pandemic and explore opportunities for collaboration in ensuring safe, equitable and affordable vaccines in the Indo-Pacific region," it said in a statement. Quad, short for Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, first came into existence after the 2004 tsunami and was first formalised in 2007. At that time, Australia had issues with the grouping, which again held a meeting a decade later in 2017 at the official level. Since 2019, Quad has had conversations at the foreign ministers' level, thrice. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said, "That President Biden has made this one of his earliest multilateral engagements speaks to the importance we place on close cooperation with our allies and partners in the Indo- Pacific." "A range of issues, of course, will be discussed — we expect to be discussed, I should say — facing the global community from the threat of Covid, to economic cooperation, and of course, to the climate crisis," she told reporters. The Quad meeting comes at a time of increased Chinese aggressiveness, not only in the region but with Quad member countries as well. Beijing has locked horns with Australia and the US on the trade front, Japan over Senkaku islands, and is engaged in a border standoff with India, that has seen disengagement at one area so far.

First-ever Quad summit to focus on Indo-Pacific, Covid vaccines

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that his mother Heeraben had received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

"Happy to share that my mother has taken the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine today. I urge everyone to help and motivate people around you who are eligible to take the vaccine," PM Modi tweeted.

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Happy to share that my mother has taken the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine today. I urge everyone to help and motivate people around you who are eligible to take the vaccine.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1369927412373282818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The prime minister himself took the first dose of vaccine on March 1. The vaccine was administered at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at New Delhi.

India has rolled out countrywide vaccination drive on January 16, 2021. Vaccination of frontline workers started on February 2. This is the biggest coronavirus vaccination drive in world.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-core-of-atmanirbhar-bharat-is-to-create-wealth-values-for-humanity-indian-pm-says-369648">At core of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' is to create wealth, values for humanity, Indian PM says</a>

Vaccination drive for frontline workers started on February 2.

The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on March 1 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions.As many as 2,52,89,693 crore doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered so far, the Union Health Ministry informed on Thursday.

(With ANI inputs)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that his mother Heeraben had received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. "Happy to share that my mother has taken the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine today.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that his mother Heeraben had received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. "Happy to share that my mother has taken the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine today. I urge everyone to help and motivate people around you who are eligible to take the vaccine," PM Modi tweeted. Happy to share that my mother has taken the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine today. I urge everyone to help and motivate people around you who are eligible to take the vaccine. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 11, 2021 × The prime minister himself took the first dose of vaccine on March 1. The vaccine was administered at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at New Delhi. India has rolled out countrywide vaccination drive on January 16, 2021. Vaccination of frontline workers started on February 2. This is the biggest coronavirus vaccination drive in world. Also Read | At core of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' is to create wealth, values for humanity, Indian PM says Vaccination drive for frontline workers started on February 2. The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on March 1 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions.As many as 2,52,89,693 crore doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered so far, the Union Health Ministry informed on Thursday. (With ANI inputs)

India PM Narendra Modi's mother receives coronavirus vaccine

Asserting that a self-reliant India is good for the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that at the core of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' is to create wealth and values "not only for ourselves but for the larger humanity".

Speaking at the launch of the Kindle version of Swami Chidbhavananda's 'Bhagavad Gita' via video conferencing, the prime minister said 1.3 billion people of India have decided their course of action which is that they are going to make India 'Atmanirbhar' or self-reliant.

"In the long term, only a self-reliant India is in everyone's interest. At the core of Atmanirbhar Bharat is to create wealth and values not only for ourselves but for the larger humanity. We believe that an Atmanirbhar Bharat is good for the world," he said.

In the recent past, when the world needed medicines, India did whatever it could to provide them, he said

"Our scientists worked in a quick time to come out with vaccines. Now, India is humbled that vaccines made in India are going around the world. We want to heal as well as help humanity. This is exactly what the Bhagavad Gita teaches us," the prime minister stressed.

He said when the Bhagavad Gita was born there was conflict and many feel that humanity is passing through similar conflict and challenges now, Modi said.

"The world is fighting a tough battle against a once-in-a-lifetime global pandemic. The economic and social impacts are also far reaching. In such a time, the path shown in Bhagavad Gita becomes ever relevant," he asserted.

It could provide strength and direction to once again emerge victorious from the challenges humanity faces, he said.

"In India, we saw many instances of this. --our people-powered fight against COVID-19, the outstanding spirit of the people, the courage of citizens, one can say that behind this is a glimpse of what the Gita highlights," he said.

Noting that e-books are becoming very popular specially among the youth, Modi said, therefore, this effort will connect more youngsters with the?noble thoughts of the Gita.

The beauty of the Gita is in its depth, diversity and flexibility, he said.

Asserting that a self-reliant India is good for the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that at the core of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' is to create wealth and values "not only for ourselves but for the larger humanity".

Asserting that a self-reliant India is good for the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that at the core of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' is to create wealth and values "not only for ourselves but for the larger humanity". Speaking at the launch of the Kindle version of Swami Chidbhavananda's 'Bhagavad Gita' via video conferencing, the prime minister said 1.3 billion people of India have decided their course of action which is that they are going to make India 'Atmanirbhar' or self-reliant. "In the long term, only a self-reliant India is in everyone's interest. At the core of Atmanirbhar Bharat is to create wealth and values not only for ourselves but for the larger humanity. We believe that an Atmanirbhar Bharat is good for the world," he said. In the recent past, when the world needed medicines, India did whatever it could to provide them, he said "Our scientists worked in a quick time to come out with vaccines. Now, India is humbled that vaccines made in India are going around the world. We want to heal as well as help humanity. This is exactly what the Bhagavad Gita teaches us," the prime minister stressed. He said when the Bhagavad Gita was born there was conflict and many feel that humanity is passing through similar conflict and challenges now, Modi said. "The world is fighting a tough battle against a once-in-a-lifetime global pandemic. The economic and social impacts are also far reaching. In such a time, the path shown in Bhagavad Gita becomes ever relevant," he asserted. It could provide strength and direction to once again emerge victorious from the challenges humanity faces, he said. "In India, we saw many instances of this. --our people-powered fight against COVID-19, the outstanding spirit of the people, the courage of citizens, one can say that behind this is a glimpse of what the Gita highlights," he said. Noting that e-books are becoming very popular specially among the youth, Modi said, therefore, this effort will connect more youngsters with the?noble thoughts of the Gita. The beauty of the Gita is in its depth, diversity and flexibility, he said.

At core of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' is to create wealth, values for humanity, Indian PM says

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is facing a massive online backlash after a caller on a radio show made controversial remarks about the mother of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

BBC Asian Network's ‘Big Debate’ show roped in callers for discussion&nbsp;about the ongoing farmers' protest in the national capital. During the course of the show, one of the callers, identified only as 'Simon', went on a rant.

The host of the show tried to bring the conversation back to the topic under discussion, but it was too late as the remarks had already reached thousands of listeners.

Listeners slammed the radio show host as well as the broadcaster for not objecting to the comment and allowing it to be aired.&nbsp; 
 
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Soon, Twitter was abuzz with the hashtag #BoycottBBC becoming the top trend in India on Wednesday, with more than 100,000 tweets.

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Absolutely abhorrent language 😠
— ajay jobanputra (@jobanputra_ajay) <a href="https://twitter.com/jobanputra_ajay/status/1366842302694580224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Several leaders of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also tweeted, demanding a 'boycott' of BBC.

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Not Only <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottBBC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottBBC</a> . 
 
Its Time To <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BanBBC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BanBBC</a>
— Arun Yadav (@beingarun28) <a href="https://twitter.com/beingarun28/status/1367042626617176065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is facing a massive online backlash after a caller on a radio show made controversial remarks about the mother of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is facing a massive online backlash after a caller on a radio show made controversial remarks about the mother of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. BBC Asian Network's ‘Big Debate’ show roped in callers for discussion about the ongoing farmers' protest in the national capital. During the course of the show, one of the callers, identified only as 'Simon', went on a rant. The host of the show tried to bring the conversation back to the topic under discussion, but it was too late as the remarks had already reached thousands of listeners. Listeners slammed the radio show host as well as the broadcaster for not objecting to the comment and allowing it to be aired. Soon, Twitter was abuzz with the hashtag #BoycottBBC becoming the top trend in India on Wednesday, with more than 100,000 tweets. Absolutely abhorrent language 😠 — ajay jobanputra (@jobanputra_ajay) March 2, 2021 × Several leaders of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also tweeted, demanding a 'boycott' of BBC. Not Only #BoycottBBC . Its Time To #BanBBC — Arun Yadav (@beingarun28) March 3, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

Online backlash over BBC radio show caller’s rant against Indian PM’s mother

India's External Affairs Minister&nbsp;S Jaishankar will fly to Bangladesh on a daylong visit on Thursday to finalise details of the trip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month, as the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations this year.

Bangladesh, which is also set to celebrate the 50th&nbsp;anniversary of Independence, looks forward to Modi's visit, the country's junior foreign minister has said.

Modi's visit, planned for&nbsp;March 26-27, will be his first trip abroad in more than a year.

The Indian prime minister and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, had held a &nbsp;virtual summit on December 17, during which he described the South Asian neighbour a "'pillar of India’s Neighbourhood First&nbsp;policy."

On Thursday, Jaishankar will hold talks with his Bangladeshi counterpart AK Abdul Momen on water sharing, trade, borders, connectivity and other bilateral issues. Multiple sources said the two sides would discuss the necessary steps to further strengthen bilateral ties through Modi's visit.

Jaishankar will also call on Prime Minister Hasina.

The Indian minister is expected to arrive in Dhaka by a special aircraft at 10am on Thursday and will leave the same day.

He will attend a joint media briefing after talks with Momen at the state guesthouse Padma.

"There are always some expectations centering all the visits, or least to take forward the issues through discussions,"' Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs M Shahriar Alam told reporters on Tuesday, adding that they keep deliverables for the big visit.

Asked about the agenda of the meeting, Alam&nbsp;said they will discuss connectivity, trade and regional cooperation.

Noting that the&nbsp;Covid-19 pandemic has not only ‘’created health emergencies&nbsp;but also economic emergency,''&nbsp;Alam said Jaishankar and Momen will discuss ways to remove barriers to export and import activities.

The two prime ministers had decided to conduct a joint feasibility study for a comprehensive economic partnership&nbsp;agreement. Dhaka will urge it to be started soon, said the minister.

‘‘We are not at all worried about what another country might think when we get closer to one country,’’ he said when asked if&nbsp;China would be happy with the economic partnership.

&nbsp;"Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's diplomacy has long since allayed this fear. I don't think anyone should have any doubts. Neither India nor China,’’ he added.

"We want to discuss the Teesta [water sharing], the other six rivers, the Rahimpur canal and other unresolved issues," a Bangladeshi foreign ministry official told WION on condition of anonymity. He said the issue of Teesta would naturally come up for discussion. Bangladesh hopes that the agreement will be signed soon as promised in 2011.

Bangladesh wants to establish itself as a 'connectivity hub' in the region and India can take advantage of it, another Bangladeshi official told&nbsp;WION. He said Bangladesh wants to be connected to the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway. The two sides would also discuss Dhaka's proposal in this regard. Bangladesh has also proposed five new routes for connectivity&nbsp;with Nepal and Bhutan through India, which are under consideration by New Delhi.

There is also a possibility of discussing Rohingya migrants, maritime economy and other issues, he added.

There are still many unresolved issues between Bangladesh and India. Dhaka wants to discuss this issue seriously during PM Modi's visit, the minister said.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will fly to Bangladesh on a daylong visit on Thursday to finalise details of the trip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month, as the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations this year.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will fly to Bangladesh on a daylong visit on Thursday to finalise details of the trip of Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month, as the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations this year. Bangladesh, which is also set to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Independence, looks forward to Modi's visit, the country's junior foreign minister has said. Modi's visit, planned for March 26-27, will be his first trip abroad in more than a year. The Indian prime minister and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, had held a virtual summit on December 17, during which he described the South Asian neighbour a "'pillar of India’s Neighbourhood First policy." On Thursday, Jaishankar will hold talks with his Bangladeshi counterpart AK Abdul Momen on water sharing, trade, borders, connectivity and other bilateral issues. Multiple sources said the two sides would discuss the necessary steps to further strengthen bilateral ties through Modi's visit. Jaishankar will also call on Prime Minister Hasina. The Indian minister is expected to arrive in Dhaka by a special aircraft at 10am on Thursday and will leave the same day. He will attend a joint media briefing after talks with Momen at the state guesthouse Padma. "There are always some expectations centering all the visits, or least to take forward the issues through discussions,"' Bangladesh State Minister for Foreign Affairs M Shahriar Alam told reporters on Tuesday, adding that they keep deliverables for the big visit. Asked about the agenda of the meeting, Alam said they will discuss connectivity, trade and regional cooperation. Noting that the Covid-19 pandemic has not only ‘’created health emergencies but also economic emergency,'' Alam said Jaishankar and Momen will discuss ways to remove barriers to export and import activities. The two prime ministers had decided to conduct a joint feasibility study for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. Dhaka will urge it to be started soon, said the minister. ‘‘We are not at all worried about what another country might think when we get closer to one country,’’ he said when asked if China would be happy with the economic partnership. "Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's diplomacy has long since allayed this fear. I don't think anyone should have any doubts. Neither India nor China,’’ he added. "We want to discuss the Teesta [water sharing], the other six rivers, the Rahimpur canal and other unresolved issues," a Bangladeshi foreign ministry official told WION on condition of anonymity. He said the issue of Teesta would naturally come up for discussion. Bangladesh hopes that the agreement will be signed soon as promised in 2011. Bangladesh wants to establish itself as a 'connectivity hub' in the region and India can take advantage of it, another Bangladeshi official told WION. He said Bangladesh wants to be connected to the India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway. The two sides would also discuss Dhaka's proposal in this regard. Bangladesh has also proposed five new routes for connectivity with Nepal and Bhutan through India, which are under consideration by New Delhi. There is also a possibility of discussing Rohingya migrants, maritime economy and other issues, he added. There are still many unresolved issues between Bangladesh and India. Dhaka wants to discuss this issue seriously during PM Modi's visit, the minister said.

Indian foreign minister to visit Bangladesh to set stage for PM Narendra Modi’s trip

Second phase of coronavirus vaccination is starting in India today (March 1). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the first dose of COVID vaccine. Vaccinating Indian citizens against coronavirus is a giant task given the population of India

In first phase of vaccination, only healthcare and frontline workers were being vaccinated.

<h2>Who will be eligible to get jab in second phase?</h2>

Here's who will be eligible for a COVID shot in the second phase of the vaccination drive

People above 60 years of age of those who will attain the age of 60 on January 1, 2022 
People with co-morbidities who are between 45-59 year-old age group or will attain that age by January 1, 2022

Indian government has listed 20 co-morbidities that would be covered for this vaccination.

<h2>Some of them are,</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Diabetes or hypertension for over 10 years</li>
	<li>HIV infection or any other immunological disease</li>
	<li>Heart failure that resulted in hospitalisation over the last one year</li>
	<li>Those diagnosed with cancer after July 1, 2020, or those currently being treated for cancer</li>
</ul>

There have been more than 11 million reported coronavirus infections in India and over 157,000 deaths

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged everyone who is eligible to take COVID vaccine

"Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free!" he tweeted.

Second phase of coronavirus vaccination is starting in India today (March 1). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the first dose of COVID vaccine. Vaccinating Indian citizens against coronavirus is a giant task given the population of India In first phase of vaccination, only healthcare and frontline workers were being vaccinated.

Second phase of coronavirus vaccination is starting in India today (March 1). Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the first dose of COVID vaccine. Vaccinating Indian citizens against coronavirus is a giant task given the population of India In first phase of vaccination, only healthcare and frontline workers were being vaccinated. Who will be eligible to get jab in second phase? Here's who will be eligible for a COVID shot in the second phase of the vaccination drive People above 60 years of age of those who will attain the age of 60 on January 1, 2022 People with co-morbidities who are between 45-59 year-old age group or will attain that age by January 1, 2022 Indian government has listed 20 co-morbidities that would be covered for this vaccination. Some of them are, Diabetes or hypertension for over 10 years HIV infection or any other immunological disease Heart failure that resulted in hospitalisation over the last one year Those diagnosed with cancer after July 1, 2020, or those currently being treated for cancer There have been more than 11 million reported coronavirus infections in India and over 157,000 deaths Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged everyone who is eligible to take COVID vaccine "Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free!" he tweeted.

COVID vaccination phase 2 India: Check who is eligible

On the occasion of National Science Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday gave a clarion call for `Lab to Land` to move science forward, noting its power in the `Aatmanirbhar Bharat` campaign.

When we talk of science, the Prime Minister said, many a time people restrict it to physics-chemistry or labs, but the spread of science is much more than that.

"And there is a lot of contribution of the power of science in the `Aatmanirbhar Bharat` campaign. We have to move science forward with the mantra of `Lab to Land`," the Prime Minister said while addressing his monthly radio programme `Mann Ki Baat`.

Reminding that Sunday happens to be the National Science Day` too, Modi said the day is dedicated to the discovery of `Raman Effect` by the great scientist Dr C.V. Raman.

The Prime Minister said the way we know of other scientists of the world, in the same way we should also know about the scientists of India.

Speaking about self-reliance, Modi said the first condition for the goal is to have pride in the things of one`s own country, to take pride in the things made by people of one`s own country.

"When every countryman takes pride, every countryman connects. Self-reliant India doesn`t remain just an economic campaign but becomes a national spirit when we see fighter plane `Tejas` made in our own country doing acrobatics in the sky, when Made-in-India tanks, Made-in-India missiles swell our pride, when we see Made-in-India coaches in Metro trains in wealthy and advanced nations, when we see Made-in-India Covid vaccines reaching dozens of countries, then our heads rise higher. And it is not that only bigger things will make India self-reliant."

"Textiles made in India, handicraft goods made by talented artisans of India, electronic appliances of India, mobiles of India, in every field we have to increase this pride. When we move forward with this thought, only then will we become self-reliant in the truest sense. I am happy that this mantra of self-reliant India is reaching the villages of the country. This very thing happened in Bettiah, about which I got to read in the media."

On the occasion of National Science Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday gave a clarion call for `Lab to Land` to move science forward, noting its power in the `Aatmanirbhar Bharat` campaign.

On the occasion of National Science Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday gave a clarion call for `Lab to Land` to move science forward, noting its power in the `Aatmanirbhar Bharat` campaign. When we talk of science, the Prime Minister said, many a time people restrict it to physics-chemistry or labs, but the spread of science is much more than that. "And there is a lot of contribution of the power of science in the `Aatmanirbhar Bharat` campaign. We have to move science forward with the mantra of `Lab to Land`," the Prime Minister said while addressing his monthly radio programme `Mann Ki Baat`. Reminding that Sunday happens to be the National Science Day` too, Modi said the day is dedicated to the discovery of `Raman Effect` by the great scientist Dr C.V. Raman. The Prime Minister said the way we know of other scientists of the world, in the same way we should also know about the scientists of India. Speaking about self-reliance, Modi said the first condition for the goal is to have pride in the things of one`s own country, to take pride in the things made by people of one`s own country. "When every countryman takes pride, every countryman connects. Self-reliant India doesn`t remain just an economic campaign but becomes a national spirit when we see fighter plane `Tejas` made in our own country doing acrobatics in the sky, when Made-in-India tanks, Made-in-India missiles swell our pride, when we see Made-in-India coaches in Metro trains in wealthy and advanced nations, when we see Made-in-India Covid vaccines reaching dozens of countries, then our heads rise higher. And it is not that only bigger things will make India self-reliant." "Textiles made in India, handicraft goods made by talented artisans of India, electronic appliances of India, mobiles of India, in every field we have to increase this pride. When we move forward with this thought, only then will we become self-reliant in the truest sense. I am happy that this mantra of self-reliant India is reaching the villages of the country. This very thing happened in Bettiah, about which I got to read in the media."

Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi calls for 'Lab to Land' to take science ahead

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>on Monday said that India`s growth engine would be further boosted with the development of Assam and the northeastern region.

Addressing a massive public gathering at Silapathar in eastern Assam`s Dhemaji district, the Prime Minister said that the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'&nbsp;vision would be further strengthened with the 'Aatmanirbhar Assam'&nbsp;and northeast.

"To achieve the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision continuous endeavours are going on. Whenever I visit Assam, I get the fresh impetus and inspirations to do more for the northeastern region," Modi said after inaugurating and laying foundation stones of five mega projects worth Rs 3,000 crore in gas, oil and education sectors.

"We are correcting the faults of the previous governments. If the policy is accurate, destiny would be perfect. Connectivity, health, education and infrastructure developments were ignored by the previous governments."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-to-enhance-capabilities-in-defence-manufacturing-pm-modi-365375" hreflang="en">India committed to enhance capabilities in defence manufacturing: PM Modi</a>

The Prime Minister said that the government is trying to give engineering and medical education in local languages so that its benefit could be obtained by the poor students and learners residing in the far-flung areas. Referring to the song of a great singer and composer Bhupen Hazarika and rich Assamese cinema, Modi said that Assam`s all-round development would make the development of India easier.

"The entire world is now respectful of India`s engineering and technological milestones," he pointed out. The Prime Minister said that as the government is working with the mantra of `Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas`, LPG and electricity connections are being given to 100 per cent households in Assam and other parts of India as these were earlier available to less than 40 to 50 per cent families.

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan said that Rs 95,000 crore would be invested in Assam`s gas and oil sector for the projects initiated by the Prime Minister on Monday. He said that the earlier Congress-led UPA government headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh despite him representing Assam in the Parliament did nothing to utilise the gas and oil resources for the benefit of Assam and the country.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in his speech said that Prime Minister Modi with his great vision for the all-round development of the region has won the hearts of every person of the eight northeastern states.

Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi and state Finance and Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also spoke in the gatherings. Monday`s visit and public address is the third in poll-bound Assam by the Prime Minister within 30 days since his visit to Sivasagar on January 23 and at Dhekiajuli in Assam`s Sonitpur district on February 7. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India`s growth engine would be further boosted with the development of Assam and the northeastern region. Addressing a massive public gathering at Silapathar in eastern Assam`s Dhemaji district, the Prime Minister said that the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision would be further strengthened with the 'Aatmanirbhar Assam' and northeast.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that India`s growth engine would be further boosted with the development of Assam and the northeastern region. Addressing a massive public gathering at Silapathar in eastern Assam`s Dhemaji district, the Prime Minister said that the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision would be further strengthened with the 'Aatmanirbhar Assam' and northeast. "To achieve the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision continuous endeavours are going on. Whenever I visit Assam, I get the fresh impetus and inspirations to do more for the northeastern region," Modi said after inaugurating and laying foundation stones of five mega projects worth Rs 3,000 crore in gas, oil and education sectors. "We are correcting the faults of the previous governments. If the policy is accurate, destiny would be perfect. Connectivity, health, education and infrastructure developments were ignored by the previous governments." Also read| India committed to enhance capabilities in defence manufacturing: PM Modi The Prime Minister said that the government is trying to give engineering and medical education in local languages so that its benefit could be obtained by the poor students and learners residing in the far-flung areas. Referring to the song of a great singer and composer Bhupen Hazarika and rich Assamese cinema, Modi said that Assam`s all-round development would make the development of India easier. "The entire world is now respectful of India`s engineering and technological milestones," he pointed out. The Prime Minister said that as the government is working with the mantra of `Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas`, LPG and electricity connections are being given to 100 per cent households in Assam and other parts of India as these were earlier available to less than 40 to 50 per cent families. Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan said that Rs 95,000 crore would be invested in Assam`s gas and oil sector for the projects initiated by the Prime Minister on Monday. He said that the earlier Congress-led UPA government headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh despite him representing Assam in the Parliament did nothing to utilise the gas and oil resources for the benefit of Assam and the country. Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal in his speech said that Prime Minister Modi with his great vision for the all-round development of the region has won the hearts of every person of the eight northeastern states. Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi and state Finance and Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also spoke in the gatherings. Monday`s visit and public address is the third in poll-bound Assam by the Prime Minister within 30 days since his visit to Sivasagar on January 23 and at Dhekiajuli in Assam`s Sonitpur district on February 7.

India's growth engine to be powered by Assam, NE: PM

The Centre and States should work together and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful than in the past, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. Addressing the sixth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog via video conferencing that he chaired, the Prime Minister said that during the COVID-19 pandemic the Centre and states successfully worked together to build a good image of India before the whole world.

"Foundation of India`s development is that the Centre and States work together and head towards a certain direction and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful. Not only this, we have to try to bring competitive, cooperative federalism not only among states but also districts," said the Prime Minister.

"In the COVID period we saw how Centre and States worked together, the nation succeeded and a good image of India was built before the entire world. Today, when we are going to complete 75 years of independence, this Governing Council meet becomes even more significant. I would urge the states to form committees by connecting all the people of the society in their respective states," he added.

PM Modi also said that in the past few years, India saw how the opening of bank accounts, increase in vaccination and health facilities, free electricity connection, and free gas connection to empower the poor, has reflected a phenomenal change in their lives.

"The kind of positive response this year`s budget received shows the mood of the nation. The country has made its mind. It is ready to move forward at a fast pace without wasting time," he said.

The Prime Minister said that the private sector in the country could be seen coming forward with more enthusiasm in the development journey of the country and the government should respect that enthusiasm and energy of the private sector, and give it as much opportunity under the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign.

"Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign is the journey of producing made in India products that not just fulfill the country`s needs but also that of the world, and these products also stand the test of superiority on a global platform," he said.

The PM said that the Central Government has introduced PLI scheme for various sectors as an excellent opportunity to increase manufacturing in the country.&nbsp;

"States should also take full advantage of this scheme and attract maximum investment in themselves," he added.PM Modi added that in the past years the Centre has adopted a holistic approach towards agriculture to animal husbandry and fisheries, and as a result, the country`s agricultural exports increased significantly even during the COVID-19 period.

The Centre and States should work together and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful than in the past, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. Addressing the sixth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog via video conferencing that he chaired, the Prime Minister said that during the COVID-19 pandemic the Centre and states successfully worked together to build a good image of India before the whole world.

The Centre and States should work together and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful than in the past, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. Addressing the sixth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog via video conferencing that he chaired, the Prime Minister said that during the COVID-19 pandemic the Centre and states successfully worked together to build a good image of India before the whole world. "Foundation of India`s development is that the Centre and States work together and head towards a certain direction and make cooperative federalism even more meaningful. Not only this, we have to try to bring competitive, cooperative federalism not only among states but also districts," said the Prime Minister. "In the COVID period we saw how Centre and States worked together, the nation succeeded and a good image of India was built before the entire world. Today, when we are going to complete 75 years of independence, this Governing Council meet becomes even more significant. I would urge the states to form committees by connecting all the people of the society in their respective states," he added. PM Modi also said that in the past few years, India saw how the opening of bank accounts, increase in vaccination and health facilities, free electricity connection, and free gas connection to empower the poor, has reflected a phenomenal change in their lives. "The kind of positive response this year`s budget received shows the mood of the nation. The country has made its mind. It is ready to move forward at a fast pace without wasting time," he said. The Prime Minister said that the private sector in the country could be seen coming forward with more enthusiasm in the development journey of the country and the government should respect that enthusiasm and energy of the private sector, and give it as much opportunity under the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign. "Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign is the journey of producing made in India products that not just fulfill the country`s needs but also that of the world, and these products also stand the test of superiority on a global platform," he said. The PM said that the Central Government has introduced PLI scheme for various sectors as an excellent opportunity to increase manufacturing in the country. "States should also take full advantage of this scheme and attract maximum investment in themselves," he added.PM Modi added that in the past years the Centre has adopted a holistic approach towards agriculture to animal husbandry and fisheries, and as a result, the country`s agricultural exports increased significantly even during the COVID-19 period.

Centre, states need to work closely to boost economic growth: PM Modi

India is committed to bring natural gas into the goods and services tax regime to make prices cheaper and uniform across the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday.

He said India was spending 7.5 trillion rupees ($103.05 billion) over 5 years to build its oil and gas infrastructure.

India is committed to bring natural gas into the goods and services tax regime to make prices cheaper and uniform across the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday.

India is committed to bring natural gas into the goods and services tax regime to make prices cheaper and uniform across the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday. He said India was spending 7.5 trillion rupees ($103.05 billion) over 5 years to build its oil and gas infrastructure.

India committed to bring natural gas under GST, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed his condolences for the loss of lives in a road mishap in Andhra Pradesh`s Kurnool district and wished a speedy recovery for the people injured in the accident.

"The road accident in Andhra Pradesh`s Kurnool district is saddening. In this hour of sadness, my thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones. I hope that the injured recover at the earliest," the Prime Minister tweeted today.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The road accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district is saddening. In this hour of sadness, my thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones. I hope that the injured recover at the earliest: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1360816753140510721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In a major road accident, 13 persons were killed and four were injured in a collision between a bus and a truck in the district on Sunday.

The incident took place at 3.30 am near Madarpur village in Veldurti Mandal of Kurnool district. Earlier today, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy had expressed deep sorrow for the loss of human life in the road mishap.

The Chief Minister instructed the concerned officials to expedite relief work and medical help, conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members, and wished a speedy recovery for the injured.

The injured are undergoing treatment at Kurnool Government General Hospital, the police had said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed his condolences for the loss of lives in a road mishap in Andhra Pradesh`s Kurnool district and wished a speedy recovery for the people injured in the accident.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed his condolences for the loss of lives in a road mishap in Andhra Pradesh`s Kurnool district and wished a speedy recovery for the people injured in the accident. "The road accident in Andhra Pradesh`s Kurnool district is saddening. In this hour of sadness, my thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones. I hope that the injured recover at the earliest," the Prime Minister tweeted today. The road accident in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district is saddening. In this hour of sadness, my thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones. I hope that the injured recover at the earliest: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 14, 2021 × In a major road accident, 13 persons were killed and four were injured in a collision between a bus and a truck in the district on Sunday. The incident took place at 3.30 am near Madarpur village in Veldurti Mandal of Kurnool district. Earlier today, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy had expressed deep sorrow for the loss of human life in the road mishap. The Chief Minister instructed the concerned officials to expedite relief work and medical help, conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members, and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. The injured are undergoing treatment at Kurnool Government General Hospital, the police had said.

PM Modi condoles loss of lives in road accident in Andhra's Kurnool

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday handed over the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank Mark 1A to the Indian Army here and said India believes in peace but will protect its sovereignty at all costs.

Modi handed over the tank to Army Chief General M.M. Naravane.

He accepted a salute by the state-of-the-art tank, indigenously designed, developed and manufactured by the Defence Research and Development Organisation`s Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment here.

Fifteen academic institutions, eight labs and several MSMEs were also involved in the project. The Defence Ministry had recently cleared the induction of 118 Arjun Mark 1A tanks into the Indian Army, costing around Rs 8,400 crore.

Modi said that Tamil Nadu is already a leading manufacturing hub of India and now he sees the state evolving as the tank manufacturing hub.

Stating that one of the two defence corridors is in Tamil Nadu, Modi said it already received an investment commitment of over Rs 8,100 crore.

"A tank made in Tamil Nadu will be used to defend our borders in northern India. This shows the united nature of India," he said. Modi said India believes in peace but it will protect its sovereignty at all costs. He recited Bharatiyar poem in Tamil to highlight the importance of defence projects in the country.

Modi also paid homage to CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the terror attack at Pulwama two years ago. "No Indian can forget this day. We pay homage to all the martyrs we lost in that attack," he said.

He also mentioned about the support provided to displaced Tamils in Sri Lanka and the Tamil fishermen captured by Sri Lanka. He declared that there are currently no fishermen in Sri Lankan custody.

Later, at a programme held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the Prime Minister either inaugurated or laid the foundation stone for a slew of infrastructure projects.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam felicitated Modi, who also paid tributes to late Chief Ministers J. Jayalalithaa and M. Karunanidhi.

Modi, who began his speech in English by greeting people with `Vanakkam Chennai`, praised the enthusiasm of the city.

"Chennai is full of energy and enthusiasm. It is a city of knowledge and creativity. From here, we begin key infrastructure projects. These projects are symbols of innovation and indigenous development," he said.

The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Chennai Metro Rail Phase-I extension completed at a cost of Rs 3,770 crore and flagged off passenger services from Washermenpet to Wimco Nagar. He noted that the work was completed on time despite the Covid-19 pandemic. He said the material for the 9.05-km stretch was procured locally and supports his idea of `Aatmanirbhar Bharat`.

Modi also inaugurated 22-km fourth railway line between Chennai Beach and Attipattu. It will be an additional track to Thiruvallur districts meant to ease traffic from Chennai Port.

Railway Electrification of single line section in Villupuram - Cuddalore - Mayiladuthurai - Thanjavur and Mayiladuthurai-Thiruvarur completed at a cost of Rs 423 crore was launched by Modi. He said this will be a great boon to delta districts. The electrification of this 228-km route will enable free flow of traffic without the need for a change of traction between Chennai Egmore and Kanyakumari.

The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the Discovery Campus of IIT-Madras. The campus is to be built at Thaiyur near Chennai at an estimated cost of Rs 1,000 crore in the first phase, over an area of 2 lakh sqm. He exuded confidence that it will very soon be the leading centre of discovery and draw the best talent from all over India.

The Prime Minister also laid foundation stone for the extension, renovation and modernisation of the Grand Anicut Canal System, which is an important source of irrigation in the delta districts. The modernisation of this canal system will be taken up at a cost of Rs 2,640 crore.

He recited a poem on the importance of conserving water, and said that the aim is to maximise each drop of water available. "Always remember the mantra of per drop, more crop," he said adding that conservation of water is a global issue.

Deputy Chief Minister Panneerselvam welcomed Modi and thanked him for the interest he has taken in the progress of the state. He praised the Prime Minister`s work ethic and referred to his recent emotional speech in the Rajya Sabha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday handed over the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank Mark 1A to the Indian Army here and said India believes in peace but will protect its sovereignty at all costs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday handed over the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank Mark 1A to the Indian Army here and said India believes in peace but will protect its sovereignty at all costs. Modi handed over the tank to Army Chief General M.M. Naravane. He accepted a salute by the state-of-the-art tank, indigenously designed, developed and manufactured by the Defence Research and Development Organisation`s Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment here. Fifteen academic institutions, eight labs and several MSMEs were also involved in the project. The Defence Ministry had recently cleared the induction of 118 Arjun Mark 1A tanks into the Indian Army, costing around Rs 8,400 crore. Modi said that Tamil Nadu is already a leading manufacturing hub of India and now he sees the state evolving as the tank manufacturing hub. Stating that one of the two defence corridors is in Tamil Nadu, Modi said it already received an investment commitment of over Rs 8,100 crore. "A tank made in Tamil Nadu will be used to defend our borders in northern India. This shows the united nature of India," he said. Modi said India believes in peace but it will protect its sovereignty at all costs. He recited Bharatiyar poem in Tamil to highlight the importance of defence projects in the country. Modi also paid homage to CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the terror attack at Pulwama two years ago. "No Indian can forget this day. We pay homage to all the martyrs we lost in that attack," he said. He also mentioned about the support provided to displaced Tamils in Sri Lanka and the Tamil fishermen captured by Sri Lanka. He declared that there are currently no fishermen in Sri Lankan custody. Later, at a programme held at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the Prime Minister either inaugurated or laid the foundation stone for a slew of infrastructure projects. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam felicitated Modi, who also paid tributes to late Chief Ministers J. Jayalalithaa and M. Karunanidhi. Modi, who began his speech in English by greeting people with `Vanakkam Chennai`, praised the enthusiasm of the city. "Chennai is full of energy and enthusiasm. It is a city of knowledge and creativity. From here, we begin key infrastructure projects. These projects are symbols of innovation and indigenous development," he said. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Chennai Metro Rail Phase-I extension completed at a cost of Rs 3,770 crore and flagged off passenger services from Washermenpet to Wimco Nagar. He noted that the work was completed on time despite the Covid-19 pandemic. He said the material for the 9.05-km stretch was procured locally and supports his idea of `Aatmanirbhar Bharat`. Modi also inaugurated 22-km fourth railway line between Chennai Beach and Attipattu. It will be an additional track to Thiruvallur districts meant to ease traffic from Chennai Port. Railway Electrification of single line section in Villupuram - Cuddalore - Mayiladuthurai - Thanjavur and Mayiladuthurai-Thiruvarur completed at a cost of Rs 423 crore was launched by Modi. He said this will be a great boon to delta districts. The electrification of this 228-km route will enable free flow of traffic without the need for a change of traction between Chennai Egmore and Kanyakumari. The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the Discovery Campus of IIT-Madras. The campus is to be built at Thaiyur near Chennai at an estimated cost of Rs 1,000 crore in the first phase, over an area of 2 lakh sqm. He exuded confidence that it will very soon be the leading centre of discovery and draw the best talent from all over India. The Prime Minister also laid foundation stone for the extension, renovation and modernisation of the Grand Anicut Canal System, which is an important source of irrigation in the delta districts. The modernisation of this canal system will be taken up at a cost of Rs 2,640 crore. He recited a poem on the importance of conserving water, and said that the aim is to maximise each drop of water available. "Always remember the mantra of per drop, more crop," he said adding that conservation of water is a global issue. Deputy Chief Minister Panneerselvam welcomed Modi and thanked him for the interest he has taken in the progress of the state. He praised the Prime Minister`s work ethic and referred to his recent emotional speech in the Rajya Sabha.

PM Modi hands over Arjun battle tank to Indian Army

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday took to Twitter to share a sky-view image of the Chepauk Stadium where the Test match between India and England is on.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravi-ashwin-overtakes-harbhajan-singh-in-elite-list-after-dismissing-ben-stokes-363543" hreflang="en">Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes</a>

PM Modi arrived in Chennai to launch various government programmes in Tamil Nadu, including the hand over of the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank (Mark 1A) tanks to Army Chief General MM Naravane.&nbsp;

After the event, Narendra Modi shared an image on social media which showed the aerial view of the Chepauk Stadium to which the Indian PM wrote: "Caught a fleeting view of an interesting test match in Chennai."&nbsp;

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Caught a fleeting view of an interesting test match in Chennai. 🏏 🇮🇳 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 <a href="https://t.co/3fqWCgywhk">pic.twitter.com/3fqWCgywhk</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1360872166175113217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/probably-in-the-next-tier-alastair-cook-lauds-rohit-sharmas-aggressive-knock-363524" hreflang="en">'Probably in the next tier': Alastair Cook lauds Rohit Sharma's aggressive knock</a>

India are on top in the match against England as the visitors are down to 106 for 8 before Tea on Day 2. England trails by 223 runs to India. Ravichandran Ashwin scalped four wickets, with Axar removing two and Siraj, Ishant sharing a man each.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday took to Twitter to share a sky-view image of the Chepauk Stadium where the Test match between India and England is on.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday took to Twitter to share a sky-view image of the Chepauk Stadium where the Test match between India and England is on. ALSO READ: Ravi Ashwin overtakes Harbhajan Singh in elite list after dismissing Ben Stokes PM Modi arrived in Chennai to launch various government programmes in Tamil Nadu, including the hand over of the indigenously developed Arjun Main Battle Tank (Mark 1A) tanks to Army Chief General MM Naravane. After the event, Narendra Modi shared an image on social media which showed the aerial view of the Chepauk Stadium to which the Indian PM wrote: "Caught a fleeting view of an interesting test match in Chennai." Caught a fleeting view of an interesting test match in Chennai. 🏏 🇮🇳 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/3fqWCgywhk — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 14, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'Probably in the next tier': Alastair Cook lauds Rohit Sharma's aggressive knock India are on top in the match against England as the visitors are down to 106 for 8 before Tea on Day 2. England trails by 223 runs to India. Ravichandran Ashwin scalped four wickets, with Axar removing two and Siraj, Ishant sharing a man each.

'Fleeting view': Prime Minister Narendra Modi cheers for Team India from the skies

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday he has a dream of setting up at least one medical college and a technical institution in each state that will impart education in the local language.

He was addressing a gathering after launching 'Assam Mala' scheme to upgrade state highways and laying the foundation for two medical colleges.

"There is no dearth of talent in the villages and far-flung areas. I have a daring dream of each state having at least one medical college and a technical institution imparting education in the local language," he said, promising setting up such institutions in Assam after the assembly elections.

He said this will improve medical services in remote areas as more and more doctors will be able to reach out to people in their mother tongue and understand their problems.

The two medical college and hospitals will come up in Biswanath and Charaideo districts.

He claimed Assam has witnessed unprecedented development in the last five years with increased health and infrastructure development.

Until 2016 there were only six medical colleges in the state but six more were added in just five years. The number of seats in medical colleges have gone up from 725 to 1,600 now, he said.

The prime minister said the 'Asom Mala' scheme will lead to the creation of new opportunities. Under the scheme, the Public Works Department (PWD) will upgrade the state highways.

Modi said he always linked the condition of tea garden workers to the development of Assam.

"But documents have emerged to show that a conspiracy has been hatched outside the country to defame Indian tea. I am sure the tea workers from Assam will give a befitting reply to these forces," he said without elaborating.

The Asom Mala scheme, with an outlay of Rs 8,210 crore, will provide inter-linkage between highways and rural roads and high-speed corridors.

The Medical College and Hospital at Biswanath will be set up at an estimated cost of Rs 565 crore and Rs 557 crore will be spent on the facility at Charaideo. They will have 100 seats each and serve as the hub of medical education and also improve doctor to patient ratio.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday he has a dream of setting up at least one medical college and a technical institution in each state that will impart education in the local language.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday he has a dream of setting up at least one medical college and a technical institution in each state that will impart education in the local language. He was addressing a gathering after launching 'Assam Mala' scheme to upgrade state highways and laying the foundation for two medical colleges. "There is no dearth of talent in the villages and far-flung areas. I have a daring dream of each state having at least one medical college and a technical institution imparting education in the local language," he said, promising setting up such institutions in Assam after the assembly elections. He said this will improve medical services in remote areas as more and more doctors will be able to reach out to people in their mother tongue and understand their problems. The two medical college and hospitals will come up in Biswanath and Charaideo districts. He claimed Assam has witnessed unprecedented development in the last five years with increased health and infrastructure development. Until 2016 there were only six medical colleges in the state but six more were added in just five years. The number of seats in medical colleges have gone up from 725 to 1,600 now, he said. The prime minister said the 'Asom Mala' scheme will lead to the creation of new opportunities. Under the scheme, the Public Works Department (PWD) will upgrade the state highways. Modi said he always linked the condition of tea garden workers to the development of Assam. "But documents have emerged to show that a conspiracy has been hatched outside the country to defame Indian tea. I am sure the tea workers from Assam will give a befitting reply to these forces," he said without elaborating. The Asom Mala scheme, with an outlay of Rs 8,210 crore, will provide inter-linkage between highways and rural roads and high-speed corridors. The Medical College and Hospital at Biswanath will be set up at an estimated cost of Rs 565 crore and Rs 557 crore will be spent on the facility at Charaideo. They will have 100 seats each and serve as the hub of medical education and also improve doctor to patient ratio.

PM Modi launches key projects in Assam, promotes using local language for studies

What do Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have in common?&nbsp;

Growing Chinese influence

Chinese President Xi Jinping has visited two of these countries and has infused billions of dollars into all of them. Additionally, all three countries are a part of China's Belt and Road Initiative.

All three countries are India's immediate neighbours

How India responds to the developments across the border is crucial for its diplomatic goals and its role in the post-pandemic world. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently told his party that India has a big role to play in the emerging new world order. The prime minister drew parallels between this decade and the one following World War 2. He reportedly said that unlike earlier, India is not going to be a mute spectator this time.

India is expanding its global footprint by becoming more vocal at global forums. India recently paid its UN Regular budget assessment in full. Also, New Delhi has entered the UNSC as a non-permanent member. India will stay on the council for 2 years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/japan-regrets-sri-lanka-scrapping-2019-deal-with-new-delhi-tokyo-361069" hreflang="en">Japan regrets Sri Lanka scrapping 2019 deal with New Delhi, Tokyo</a>

India has plans and a list of issues it wants to raise. The expansion of the security council, to begin within both permanent and non-permanent categories. The biggest challenge is coming from China. Beijing heads at least six UN organisations. It has previously shielded Pakistani terrorists, raised Kashmir at the UNSC at Pakistan's behest.

China is now blocking a resolution on the Myanmar coup. It is trading its veto power at global forums for support, land and business in the neighbourhood.If India wants to emerge as a global leader in the post-pandemic world, it must build strategic alliances, expand its outreach programmes and begin all of this by concentrating on its neighbourhood first.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/vaccine-diplomacy-intensifies-as-china-donates-sinovac-to-sri-lanka-after-india-supplies-covishield-359974" hreflang="en">Vaccine diplomacy intensifies as China donates Sinovac to Sri Lanka after India supplies Covishield</a>

South Asia is evolving -Experimenting with democracy, being threatened by dictatorship, and witnessing changing geopolitics. India must respond to all of this with seasoned diplomacy. 30 years ago, India condemned military rule in Myanmar. Today, India should not feel compelled to follow the west because that would only push Myanmar closer to China.

India must maintain diplomatic ties with Myanmar and at the same time, it must be careful to not legitimise dictatorship. The situation in Sri Lanka too calls for an innovative approach. It is a turf where India and China are fighting for greater influence. India must counter China by supporting the neighbourhood - by using programmes like Vaccine Maitri to steer the region away from dependence on Chinese chequebooks.

India must shift the balance away from Beijing by relying on history, people-to-people connect, culture. India must win the trust and support of its neighbours as it eyes a global leadership role. 
&nbsp;

What do Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have in common? Growing Chinese influence Chinese President Xi Jinping has visited two of these countries and has infused billions of dollars into all of them.

What do Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have in common? Growing Chinese influence Chinese President Xi Jinping has visited two of these countries and has infused billions of dollars into all of them. Additionally, all three countries are a part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. All three countries are India's immediate neighbours How India responds to the developments across the border is crucial for its diplomatic goals and its role in the post-pandemic world. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently told his party that India has a big role to play in the emerging new world order. The prime minister drew parallels between this decade and the one following World War 2. He reportedly said that unlike earlier, India is not going to be a mute spectator this time. India is expanding its global footprint by becoming more vocal at global forums. India recently paid its UN Regular budget assessment in full. Also, New Delhi has entered the UNSC as a non-permanent member. India will stay on the council for 2 years. Also read: Japan regrets Sri Lanka scrapping 2019 deal with New Delhi, Tokyo India has plans and a list of issues it wants to raise. The expansion of the security council, to begin within both permanent and non-permanent categories. The biggest challenge is coming from China. Beijing heads at least six UN organisations. It has previously shielded Pakistani terrorists, raised Kashmir at the UNSC at Pakistan's behest. China is now blocking a resolution on the Myanmar coup. It is trading its veto power at global forums for support, land and business in the neighbourhood.If India wants to emerge as a global leader in the post-pandemic world, it must build strategic alliances, expand its outreach programmes and begin all of this by concentrating on its neighbourhood first. Also read: Vaccine diplomacy intensifies as China donates Sinovac to Sri Lanka after India supplies Covishield South Asia is evolving -Experimenting with democracy, being threatened by dictatorship, and witnessing changing geopolitics. India must respond to all of this with seasoned diplomacy. 30 years ago, India condemned military rule in Myanmar. Today, India should not feel compelled to follow the west because that would only push Myanmar closer to China. India must maintain diplomatic ties with Myanmar and at the same time, it must be careful to not legitimise dictatorship. The situation in Sri Lanka too calls for an innovative approach. It is a turf where India and China are fighting for greater influence. India must counter China by supporting the neighbourhood - by using programmes like Vaccine Maitri to steer the region away from dependence on Chinese chequebooks. India must shift the balance away from Beijing by relying on history, people-to-people connect, culture. India must win the trust and support of its neighbours as it eyes a global leadership role.

Why India should continue focusing on neighbourhood first

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lets-remain-united-sachin-tendulkar-urges-people-to-not-fall-for-propaganda-amid-farmers-protest-361115" hreflang="en">Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest</a>

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took to Twitter to announce that the vaccines have arrived in Johannesburg. He said: "In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. &nbsp;#VaccineMaitri"

Pietersen took to social media and thanked India for the gesture and said: "Indian generosity and kindness grows more and more every single day. The beloved country!"

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In it together. 
Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaccineMaitri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaccineMaitri</a> <a href="https://t.co/O9kWj6qVV9">pic.twitter.com/O9kWj6qVV9</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1356234844850819073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another tweet, the English batsman said: "India has taught me so much and also given me so much, throughout my career. I’ve felt the love, passion, energy and hospitality that not many other countries can compare with. The world is seeing its care with the delivery of the vaccine to SA this week."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the English batsman and said: "Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19."

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Glad to see your affection towards India. :) 
 
We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19. <a href="https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG">https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1356980689531400192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As per ‘Vaccine Maitri‘ (vaccine friendship) initiative, India will be delivering doses of COVID-19 vaccine to its neighbours. The country has so far provided vaccines to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Seychelles, Algeria and Mauritius.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa. ALSO READ: Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest India's External Affairs Minister S.

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen on Tuesday praised India for its gesture of providing vaccine doses to South Africa. ALSO READ: Let's remain united: Sachin Tendulkar urges people to not fall for propaganda amid farmers protest India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took to Twitter to announce that the vaccines have arrived in Johannesburg. He said: "In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. #VaccineMaitri" Pietersen took to social media and thanked India for the gesture and said: "Indian generosity and kindness grows more and more every single day. The beloved country!" In it together. Made in India vaccines land in Johannesburg, South Africa. #VaccineMaitri pic.twitter.com/O9kWj6qVV9 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) February 1, 2021 × In another tweet, the English batsman said: "India has taught me so much and also given me so much, throughout my career. I’ve felt the love, passion, energy and hospitality that not many other countries can compare with. The world is seeing its care with the delivery of the vaccine to SA this week." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the English batsman and said: "Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19." Glad to see your affection towards India. :) We believe that the world is our family and want to play our role in strengthening the fight against COVID-19. https://t.co/zwpB3CNxLG — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 3, 2021 × As per ‘Vaccine Maitri‘ (vaccine friendship) initiative, India will be delivering doses of COVID-19 vaccine to its neighbours. The country has so far provided vaccines to Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Seychelles, Algeria and Mauritius.

Kevin Pietersen expresses his gratitude towards India; PM Modi replies

India, which is running the world`s biggest COVID-19 vaccination drive, is the fastest in vaccinating its citizens, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. He said that the Made in India vaccines are only a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat but is also a symbol of self-pride.&nbsp;

"Just as India`s war against coronavirus became an example to the world, similarly our vaccination programme is also becoming an example to the world. India is conducting the biggest vaccination drive in the world. Do you know what is an even better matter of pride? We are not only running the world`s biggest vaccination drive but we are also the fastest in vaccinating our citizens," Prime Minister Modi said in his 73rd episode of `Mann Ki Baat`.&nbsp;

"In merely 15 days, India has vaccinated more than 30 lakhs COVID-19 warrior, while a rich country like the US has completed the same target in 18 days and the UK in 36 days. The Made in India vaccines is only a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat but is also a symbol of self-pride," he added.

The number of healthcare workers vaccinated against COVID-19 has crossed the 37 lakh mark on the fifteenth day of the countrywide COVID-19 vaccination program, according to Health Ministry.

Highlighting that India is helping the world during the COVID-19 crisis, he said: "These days, I receive messages for India from Presidents and Prime Ministers of different countries of the world. You must also have seen recently how the President of Brazil, in a tweet thanked India - every Indian was proud of it. You must have noticed about the vaccination programme that India is able to help others because India today is self-reliant in the field of medicines and vaccines."

"In times of crisis, India is able to serve the world because India, today, is capable of medicines and vaccine, is self-sufficient. This is also the idea of a self-reliant India campaign. The more capable India is, the more it will serve humanity, the more the world will benefit," he added.

India has gifted the COVID-19 vaccine to several countries including Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bahrain.This was also Prime Minister Modi`s this year`s first Mann Ki Baat at 11. Mann ki Baat is the Prime Minister`s monthly radio programme to the nation, which is broadcasted on the last Sunday of every month.

India, which is running the world`s biggest COVID-19 vaccination drive, is the fastest in vaccinating its citizens, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. He said that the Made in India vaccines are only a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat but is also a symbol of self-pride.

India, which is running the world`s biggest COVID-19 vaccination drive, is the fastest in vaccinating its citizens, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. He said that the Made in India vaccines are only a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat but is also a symbol of self-pride. "Just as India`s war against coronavirus became an example to the world, similarly our vaccination programme is also becoming an example to the world. India is conducting the biggest vaccination drive in the world. Do you know what is an even better matter of pride? We are not only running the world`s biggest vaccination drive but we are also the fastest in vaccinating our citizens," Prime Minister Modi said in his 73rd episode of `Mann Ki Baat`. "In merely 15 days, India has vaccinated more than 30 lakhs COVID-19 warrior, while a rich country like the US has completed the same target in 18 days and the UK in 36 days. The Made in India vaccines is only a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat but is also a symbol of self-pride," he added. The number of healthcare workers vaccinated against COVID-19 has crossed the 37 lakh mark on the fifteenth day of the countrywide COVID-19 vaccination program, according to Health Ministry. Highlighting that India is helping the world during the COVID-19 crisis, he said: "These days, I receive messages for India from Presidents and Prime Ministers of different countries of the world. You must also have seen recently how the President of Brazil, in a tweet thanked India - every Indian was proud of it. You must have noticed about the vaccination programme that India is able to help others because India today is self-reliant in the field of medicines and vaccines." "In times of crisis, India is able to serve the world because India, today, is capable of medicines and vaccine, is self-sufficient. This is also the idea of a self-reliant India campaign. The more capable India is, the more it will serve humanity, the more the world will benefit," he added. India has gifted the COVID-19 vaccine to several countries including Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bahrain.This was also Prime Minister Modi`s this year`s first Mann Ki Baat at 11. Mann ki Baat is the Prime Minister`s monthly radio programme to the nation, which is broadcasted on the last Sunday of every month.

Mann Ki Baat: India fastest in world to vaccinate citizens, says PM Modi

Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday said that 1,65,714 beneficiaries inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines till 5.30 pm across India on the first day.

A total of 16,755 vaccinators were also involved in the process across India, it said, adding that no case of post-vaccination hospitalisation was reported.

"Serum Institute of India produced COVISHIELD was supplied to all States/UTs, while Bharat Biotech's COVAXIN was supplied to 12 States. Total 3351 sessions held across the country with both the vaccines."

The government also said that COVID-19 vaccination drive was successful on Day 1. No case of post-vaccination hospitalisation reported so far.

"Since it was the first day of vaccination, a few issues came up- delay in uploading beneficiary list at some session sites and healthcare workers vaccinated though not scheduled for today's session," the government clarified in its press briefing. Resolutions provided for both the issues, it added.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had earlier this month approved Oxford COVID-19 vaccine Covishield, manufactured by the Serum Institute, and indigenously developed Covaxin of Bharat Biotech for restricted emergency use in the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday said that 1,65,714 beneficiaries inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines till 5.30 pm across India on the first day.

Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday said that 1,65,714 beneficiaries inoculated with COVID-19 vaccines till 5.30 pm across India on the first day. A total of 16,755 vaccinators were also involved in the process across India, it said, adding that no case of post-vaccination hospitalisation was reported. "Serum Institute of India produced COVISHIELD was supplied to all States/UTs, while Bharat Biotech's COVAXIN was supplied to 12 States. Total 3351 sessions held across the country with both the vaccines." The government also said that COVID-19 vaccination drive was successful on Day 1. No case of post-vaccination hospitalisation reported so far. "Since it was the first day of vaccination, a few issues came up- delay in uploading beneficiary list at some session sites and healthcare workers vaccinated though not scheduled for today's session," the government clarified in its press briefing. Resolutions provided for both the issues, it added. The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had earlier this month approved Oxford COVID-19 vaccine Covishield, manufactured by the Serum Institute, and indigenously developed Covaxin of Bharat Biotech for restricted emergency use in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus in India: 165,714 people vaccinated today, says health ministry

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the world's biggest coronavirus vaccine programme on Saturday virtually in New Delhi.

On day one, around 300,000 people will receive the first of two doses of the vaccine.

PM Modi exhorted Indians to keep following the Covid guidelines even though the vaccine roll-out does offer a glimmer of hope.&nbsp;'Dawaai bhi aur kadaai bhi' (vaccine along with the mandatory restrictions and strictness) was the motto of Modi's nationally televised address on Saturday morning.

The prime minister said, "Everyone was waiting for this day with bated breath. Everyone kept asking when the vaccine would come. It’s here and in a short span of time. In some minutes from now, the world’s biggest vaccination drive is to begin. It's a testimony to our scientists' talent and skills."

India, home to 1.3 billion people, has the world's second-largest caseload, and the government has given approvals to two vaccines -- though one is yet to complete clinical trials -- aiming to inoculate around 300 million people by July.

Emphasising the enormity of the vaccination drive, which he launched through a remote control amid chanting of Sanskrit shloka that meant 'let everybody be happy, let everybody be healthy', Modi said never before in history, has this type of a large-scale vaccination campaign been undertaken.

He said, "Such a big vaccination drive hasn’t ever been conducted in history. Look at the figures in the first phase -- 3 crore. We have to take it to 30 crore in the second phase. The United States, China and India are the only three countries in the world with a population of over 30 crore. The vaccination drive in India, by that measure, is so huge."

"India's vaccines enjoy global credibility because of their track record. Scientists and experts are satisfied with the safety of Made in India vaccines. That's why they have approved it. Citizens should hence stay away from propaganda, misinformation and rumours," the prime minister&nbsp;advised his countrymen.

"I want to remind people of the country that two doses of the vaccine are very important. Don't commit the mistake that you take one dose and forget the second one. As experts have been saying, there will be a gap of about one month between the two doses," Modi said.

PM Modi got overwhelmed with emotions as he remembered the ones India lost due to Covid-19, and were not accorded a proper farewell owing to the restrictions on movement.

In a choked voice, the Prime Minister also referred to sacrifices made by healthcare and frontline workers, hundreds of whom lost their lives to the viral infection.

He said, "Covid-19 kept people away from their families. Mothers cried for their children and had to stay away. People could not meet their elderly admitted at hospitals. We could not bid adieu to those with proper rituals who died due to coronavirus."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Narendra Modi gets emotional while talking about the hardships faced by healthcare and frontline workers during the pandemic. <a href="https://t.co/B0YQsqtSgW">pic.twitter.com/B0YQsqtSgW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1350314046235394051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had earlier this month approved Oxford COVID-19 vaccine Covishield, manufactured by the Serum Institute, and indigenously developed Covaxin of Bharat Biotech for restricted emergency use in the country, paving the way for the massive inoculation drive.

On January 30, the first case of coronavirus was found in India, but even more than two weeks before that India had formed a high level committee, he said.

The country had issued its first advisory on January 17 and India was among first few nations that started screening at airports, Modi said emphasising the speed at which India acted to deal with the pandemic.

Modi also talked about evacuation of Indians stuck abroad, saying that at a time when many countries of the world had left their citizens stranded in China, India evacuated not only Indians but citizens of other countries.

The prime minister congratulated the countrymen for passing the challenge of discipline and patience during the 'Janata Curfew' in March.

He pointed out that the exercise prepared the country psychologically for the lockdown. Morale of the country was kept high with the campaigns like 'taali-thali' and lighting of diyas, the prime minister added.

Delhi's Sulochna Kataria, a&nbsp;healthcare worker for 30 years,&nbsp;would be the first person to get vaccinated in India under the massive programme.

Meanwhile, India's Covid&nbsp;caseload on Saturday climbed to 1,05,42,841 with 15,158 more people testing positive for the disease while recoveries surged to 1,01,79,715. The&nbsp;death toll increased to 1,52,093 with 175 more fatalities.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the world's biggest coronavirus vaccine programme on Saturday virtually in New Delhi. On day one, around 300,000 people will receive the first of two doses of the vaccine.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the world's biggest coronavirus vaccine programme on Saturday virtually in New Delhi. On day one, around 300,000 people will receive the first of two doses of the vaccine. PM Modi exhorted Indians to keep following the Covid guidelines even though the vaccine roll-out does offer a glimmer of hope. 'Dawaai bhi aur kadaai bhi' (vaccine along with the mandatory restrictions and strictness) was the motto of Modi's nationally televised address on Saturday morning. The prime minister said, "Everyone was waiting for this day with bated breath. Everyone kept asking when the vaccine would come. It’s here and in a short span of time. In some minutes from now, the world’s biggest vaccination drive is to begin. It's a testimony to our scientists' talent and skills." India, home to 1.3 billion people, has the world's second-largest caseload, and the government has given approvals to two vaccines -- though one is yet to complete clinical trials -- aiming to inoculate around 300 million people by July. Emphasising the enormity of the vaccination drive, which he launched through a remote control amid chanting of Sanskrit shloka that meant 'let everybody be happy, let everybody be healthy', Modi said never before in history, has this type of a large-scale vaccination campaign been undertaken. He said, "Such a big vaccination drive hasn’t ever been conducted in history. Look at the figures in the first phase -- 3 crore. We have to take it to 30 crore in the second phase. The United States, China and India are the only three countries in the world with a population of over 30 crore. The vaccination drive in India, by that measure, is so huge." "India's vaccines enjoy global credibility because of their track record. Scientists and experts are satisfied with the safety of Made in India vaccines. That's why they have approved it. Citizens should hence stay away from propaganda, misinformation and rumours," the prime minister advised his countrymen. "I want to remind people of the country that two doses of the vaccine are very important. Don't commit the mistake that you take one dose and forget the second one. As experts have been saying, there will be a gap of about one month between the two doses," Modi said. PM Modi got overwhelmed with emotions as he remembered the ones India lost due to Covid-19, and were not accorded a proper farewell owing to the restrictions on movement. In a choked voice, the Prime Minister also referred to sacrifices made by healthcare and frontline workers, hundreds of whom lost their lives to the viral infection. He said, "Covid-19 kept people away from their families. Mothers cried for their children and had to stay away. People could not meet their elderly admitted at hospitals. We could not bid adieu to those with proper rituals who died due to coronavirus." #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi gets emotional while talking about the hardships faced by healthcare and frontline workers during the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/B0YQsqtSgW — ANI (@ANI) January 16, 2021 × The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) had earlier this month approved Oxford COVID-19 vaccine Covishield, manufactured by the Serum Institute, and indigenously developed Covaxin of Bharat Biotech for restricted emergency use in the country, paving the way for the massive inoculation drive. On January 30, the first case of coronavirus was found in India, but even more than two weeks before that India had formed a high level committee, he said. The country had issued its first advisory on January 17 and India was among first few nations that started screening at airports, Modi said emphasising the speed at which India acted to deal with the pandemic. Modi also talked about evacuation of Indians stuck abroad, saying that at a time when many countries of the world had left their citizens stranded in China, India evacuated not only Indians but citizens of other countries. The prime minister congratulated the countrymen for passing the challenge of discipline and patience during the 'Janata Curfew' in March. He pointed out that the exercise prepared the country psychologically for the lockdown. Morale of the country was kept high with the campaigns like 'taali-thali' and lighting of diyas, the prime minister added. Delhi's Sulochna Kataria, a healthcare worker for 30 years, would be the first person to get vaccinated in India under the massive programme. Meanwhile, India's Covid caseload on Saturday climbed to 1,05,42,841 with 15,158 more people testing positive for the disease while recoveries surged to 1,01,79,715. The death toll increased to 1,52,093 with 175 more fatalities.

Indian PM Modi launches world's 'largest coronavirus vaccine drive'

Eminent social worker Padma Shri D Prakash Rao passed away at the SCB Medical College and Hospital here on Wednesday after 20 day long battle with Covid-19 and related ailments. He was 63.

Rao was hospitalised in December last year following difficulties in breathing. Later, he tested positive for Covid-19.

He was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2019 by the Government of India for his contribution towards boosting the value of education among slum and orphan kids in Cuttack.

He was under the spotlight again a couple of years ago when PM Modi praised the noble samaritan in his radio address ‘Mann ki Baat’. 
 
"Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," Prime Minister Modi tweeted, along with a photo of his meeting with the humble tea-seller.

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Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/ECZ0NUFush">pic.twitter.com/ECZ0NUFush</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1349334280153956354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also expressed grief at the death Mr D Prakash Rao.

“Deeply saddened to know about the demise of philanthropist Padma Shri D Prakash Rao.The Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children through education. My thoughts &amp; prayers with the bereaved family members. RIP” tweeted Patnaik.

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Deeply saddened to know about the demise of philanthropist Padma Shri D Prakash Rao. The Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children through education. My thoughts &amp; prayers with the bereaved family members. RIP
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) <a href="https://twitter.com/Naveen_Odisha/status/1349328900132724736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Patnaik also announced that Rao will be cremated with full state honours.

(With inputs from agencies)

Eminent social worker Padma Shri D Prakash Rao passed away at the SCB Medical College and Hospital here on Wednesday after 20 day long battle with Covid-19 and related ailments.

Eminent social worker Padma Shri D Prakash Rao passed away at the SCB Medical College and Hospital here on Wednesday after 20 day long battle with Covid-19 and related ailments. He was 63. Rao was hospitalised in December last year following difficulties in breathing. Later, he tested positive for Covid-19. He was conferred with the prestigious Padma Shri award in 2019 by the Government of India for his contribution towards boosting the value of education among slum and orphan kids in Cuttack. He was under the spotlight again a couple of years ago when PM Modi praised the noble samaritan in his radio address ‘Mann ki Baat’. "Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," Prime Minister Modi tweeted, along with a photo of his meeting with the humble tea-seller. Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/ECZ0NUFush — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 13, 2021 × Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also expressed grief at the death Mr D Prakash Rao. “Deeply saddened to know about the demise of philanthropist Padma Shri D Prakash Rao.The Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children through education. My thoughts & prayers with the bereaved family members. RIP” tweeted Patnaik. Deeply saddened to know about the demise of philanthropist Padma Shri D Prakash Rao. The Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children through education. My thoughts & prayers with the bereaved family members. RIP — Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) January 13, 2021 × Patnaik also announced that Rao will be cremated with full state honours. (With inputs from agencies)

Renowned social worker Padma Shri D Prakash Rao passes away at 63

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Monday that the central government will bear the expenses of vaccinating nearly three crore healthcare and frontline workers in the first round and suggested that public representatives, a reference to politicians, should not be part of this initial exercise.

Interacting with chief ministers, PM Modi underscored the enormity of what he described as the world's biggest vaccination exercise, which begins from January 16, saying over 30 crore citizens will get the jabs in the next few months in India against only 2.5 crore people who have received them in over 50 countries in around a month so far.

The two already approved made-in-India COVID-19 vaccines are more cost-effective than any other in the world and have been developed as per the country's needs, he said in his remarks in the meeting called to discuss the COVID-19 situation and the vaccination rollout.

Besides the two vaccines -- Covishield developed by Oxford and British-Swedish company AstraZeneca and manufactured by Serum Institute of India, and Bharat Biotech's Covaxin, four others are being developed, PM Modi said, asserting that India's fight against the pandemic will enter a decisive stage with the vaccination roll-out.

More vaccines may be available when the exercise moves into the second round, he added.

The Prime Minister also sought to dispel concerns expressed by some opposition leaders and experts over the approval given to Covaxin without the availability of efficacy data, asserting that scientists have taken all precautions to provide citizens with effective vaccines.

The Prime Minister said he has been maintaining from the beginning that the scientific community will have the final word on the issue.

India's drug regulator has given approval to Covishield and Covaxin for the emergency use authorisation. It is a matter of pride that both the vaccines are ''made in India'', he said, adding that it can be imagined how much hardship India would have faced if it had to depend on foreign vaccines.

Noting that the first round of vaccination is meant for healthcare and frontline workers, he said, "This is my personal suggestion and no one should take it otherwise. We public representatives are not part of it."

In some countries, including the US and Israel, leading public figures have taken the jabs while top functionaries in a few others have chosen to follow the standard protocol and wait for their turn.

Talking about the COVID-19 situation in India, PM Modi said the country is in a much better place than many others in terms of the pandemic's spread, and added that this is a matter of happiness but should not induce carelessness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Monday that the central government will bear the expenses of vaccinating nearly three crore healthcare and frontline workers in the first round and suggested that public representatives, a reference to politicians, should not be part of this initial exercise.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Monday that the central government will bear the expenses of vaccinating nearly three crore healthcare and frontline workers in the first round and suggested that public representatives, a reference to politicians, should not be part of this initial exercise. Interacting with chief ministers, PM Modi underscored the enormity of what he described as the world's biggest vaccination exercise, which begins from January 16, saying over 30 crore citizens will get the jabs in the next few months in India against only 2.5 crore people who have received them in over 50 countries in around a month so far. The two already approved made-in-India COVID-19 vaccines are more cost-effective than any other in the world and have been developed as per the country's needs, he said in his remarks in the meeting called to discuss the COVID-19 situation and the vaccination rollout. Besides the two vaccines -- Covishield developed by Oxford and British-Swedish company AstraZeneca and manufactured by Serum Institute of India, and Bharat Biotech's Covaxin, four others are being developed, PM Modi said, asserting that India's fight against the pandemic will enter a decisive stage with the vaccination roll-out. More vaccines may be available when the exercise moves into the second round, he added. The Prime Minister also sought to dispel concerns expressed by some opposition leaders and experts over the approval given to Covaxin without the availability of efficacy data, asserting that scientists have taken all precautions to provide citizens with effective vaccines. The Prime Minister said he has been maintaining from the beginning that the scientific community will have the final word on the issue. India's drug regulator has given approval to Covishield and Covaxin for the emergency use authorisation. It is a matter of pride that both the vaccines are ''made in India'', he said, adding that it can be imagined how much hardship India would have faced if it had to depend on foreign vaccines. Noting that the first round of vaccination is meant for healthcare and frontline workers, he said, "This is my personal suggestion and no one should take it otherwise. We public representatives are not part of it." In some countries, including the US and Israel, leading public figures have taken the jabs while top functionaries in a few others have chosen to follow the standard protocol and wait for their turn. Talking about the COVID-19 situation in India, PM Modi said the country is in a much better place than many others in terms of the pandemic's spread, and added that this is a matter of happiness but should not induce carelessness.

Centre to bear vaccination cost of 3 crore health, frontline workers: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that Indian coronavirus vaccines are the most cost effective in the world. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oxford-astrazeneca-vaccine-to-cost-rs200-a-vial-in-india-purchase-order-placed-with-sii-reports-356029">Also read | Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to cost ₹200 a vial in India; purchase order placed with SII: Reports</a> 
 
Interacting with Chief Ministers of several states ahead of the massive COVID-19 vaccination drive, he said that "our vaccines are more affordable than any other vaccine on the globe. If India needed vaccine from other countries, it would've been a big challenge." 
 
Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/myanmar-orders-30-million-coronavirus-vaccines-from-india-355773" hreflang="en">Myanmar orders 30 million coronavirus vaccines from India</a>

"India's vaccination experience will help during COVID vaccination programme," he added.

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Speaking at the interaction with CMs on vaccination rollout. <a href="https://t.co/gbWZ4LsQGB">https://t.co/gbWZ4LsQGB</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1348591718388568066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Around three crore healthcare workers and frontline workers will be vaccinated in the first phase of vaccination. In the second phase, those above 50 years and those under 50 years with co-morbid conditions will be vaccinated, confirmed PM Modi.

The government is planning to vaccinate over 30 crore people in the next few months.

PM Modi then announced, "If you look at the number of health and frontline workers across all states, it stands at around three crore. It has been decided that state governments will not have to bear the expenses of vaccination of these 3 crore people in the first phase. Govt of India will bear these expenses."

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that Indian coronavirus vaccines are the most cost effective in the world. Also read | Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to cost ₹200 a vial in India; purchase order placed with SII: Reports Interacting with Chief Ministers of several states ahead of the massive COVID-19 vaccination drive, he said that "our vaccines are more affordable than any other vaccine on the globe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that Indian coronavirus vaccines are the most cost effective in the world. Also read | Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to cost ₹200 a vial in India; purchase order placed with SII: Reports Interacting with Chief Ministers of several states ahead of the massive COVID-19 vaccination drive, he said that "our vaccines are more affordable than any other vaccine on the globe. If India needed vaccine from other countries, it would've been a big challenge." Also read| Myanmar orders 30 million coronavirus vaccines from India "India's vaccination experience will help during COVID vaccination programme," he added. Speaking at the interaction with CMs on vaccination rollout. https://t.co/gbWZ4LsQGB — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 11, 2021 × Around three crore healthcare workers and frontline workers will be vaccinated in the first phase of vaccination. In the second phase, those above 50 years and those under 50 years with co-morbid conditions will be vaccinated, confirmed PM Modi. The government is planning to vaccinate over 30 crore people in the next few months. PM Modi then announced, "If you look at the number of health and frontline workers across all states, it stands at around three crore. It has been decided that state governments will not have to bear the expenses of vaccination of these 3 crore people in the first phase. Govt of India will bear these expenses." (With inputs from agencies)

Indian vaccines more affordable than any other on the globe: PM Modi

Noting India's image as the world's pharmacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Saturday it is ready with two locally manufactured COVID-19 vaccines to "protect" humanity, and asserted the world is not only waiting for them but also watching as to how the nation runs the globe's biggest vaccination programme.

In his address at the inauguration of the 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, Modi also said that if democracy is most strong, vibrant and lively anywhere in the world, it is in India despite the grim forecasts about its survival in the country at the time of independence. He urged Indian diaspora to use more and more made-in-India products, saying it will inspire confidence among those living around them to use these items as well.

Indian diaspora has a crucial role in boosting 'brand India' as the country advances towards self-reliance, the prime minister said. Talking about India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic, he said the country is among the nations with the lowest fatality rate and the highest recovery rate.

"Being the pharmacy of the world, India has supplied important medicines to all those in need in the world in the past and is also doing so now. The world is not only waiting for Indian vaccines but is also watching how India runs the world's biggest vaccination programme," he said. Solutions prepared by India will benefit the entire world, the prime minister said, adding the country's pharma industry has shown that if the nation is capable in any field, this helps everyone. Lauding the contribution of Indian diaspora to the country they live in, Modi said he spoke to a number of heads of states in recent months, and they especially noted as to how Indians, be it doctors, paramedics or other citizens, have served their society.

Modi said he felt very proud about the praise for Indian diaspora and also lauded them for their contributions to the PM-CARES Fund, which has been used to boost health infrastructure in the country. He also urged Indian missions abroad and the diaspora to work to prepare a portal to feature those members of the immigrant Indians who had an important role in the country's freedom struggle.

He said India is using technology to defeat corruption and crores of rupees are being directly transferred to beneficiaries' bank accounts. India has shown in the field of renewable energy that a developing country can also take the lead, he said, adding the country's mantra of one sun, one world, one grid' is appealing to the world. "When India got Independence it was said that such a poor and under-literate country will disintegrate and democracy was impossible here. Today's truth is that India is united and if democracy is most strong, vibrant and lively anywhere in the world, it is in India," he said. Modi told the Indian diaspora that the country always stands with them and pointed out that over 45 lakh people were rescued under the government's Vande Bharat mission during the pandemic. Earlier, the keynote address at the 16th PBD Convention 2021 was delivered by chief guest Chandrikapersad Santokhi, the President of Suriname. The theme of 16th PBD Convention 2021 is "Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat".

Noting India's image as the world's pharmacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Saturday it is ready with two locally manufactured COVID-19 vaccines to "protect" humanity, and asserted the world is not only waiting for them but also watching as to how the nation runs the globe's biggest vaccination programme.

Noting India's image as the world's pharmacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Saturday it is ready with two locally manufactured COVID-19 vaccines to "protect" humanity, and asserted the world is not only waiting for them but also watching as to how the nation runs the globe's biggest vaccination programme. In his address at the inauguration of the 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, Modi also said that if democracy is most strong, vibrant and lively anywhere in the world, it is in India despite the grim forecasts about its survival in the country at the time of independence. He urged Indian diaspora to use more and more made-in-India products, saying it will inspire confidence among those living around them to use these items as well. Indian diaspora has a crucial role in boosting 'brand India' as the country advances towards self-reliance, the prime minister said. Talking about India's fight against the coronavirus pandemic, he said the country is among the nations with the lowest fatality rate and the highest recovery rate. "Being the pharmacy of the world, India has supplied important medicines to all those in need in the world in the past and is also doing so now. The world is not only waiting for Indian vaccines but is also watching how India runs the world's biggest vaccination programme," he said. Solutions prepared by India will benefit the entire world, the prime minister said, adding the country's pharma industry has shown that if the nation is capable in any field, this helps everyone. Lauding the contribution of Indian diaspora to the country they live in, Modi said he spoke to a number of heads of states in recent months, and they especially noted as to how Indians, be it doctors, paramedics or other citizens, have served their society. Modi said he felt very proud about the praise for Indian diaspora and also lauded them for their contributions to the PM-CARES Fund, which has been used to boost health infrastructure in the country. He also urged Indian missions abroad and the diaspora to work to prepare a portal to feature those members of the immigrant Indians who had an important role in the country's freedom struggle. He said India is using technology to defeat corruption and crores of rupees are being directly transferred to beneficiaries' bank accounts. India has shown in the field of renewable energy that a developing country can also take the lead, he said, adding the country's mantra of one sun, one world, one grid' is appealing to the world. "When India got Independence it was said that such a poor and under-literate country will disintegrate and democracy was impossible here. Today's truth is that India is united and if democracy is most strong, vibrant and lively anywhere in the world, it is in India," he said. Modi told the Indian diaspora that the country always stands with them and pointed out that over 45 lakh people were rescued under the government's Vande Bharat mission during the pandemic. Earlier, the keynote address at the 16th PBD Convention 2021 was delivered by chief guest Chandrikapersad Santokhi, the President of Suriname. The theme of 16th PBD Convention 2021 is "Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat".

India ready to protect humanity with vaccines, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video-teleconference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday and briefed her on COVID-19 vaccine development in India, while also assuring her of the country's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world.

A Prime Minister's Office statement said Modi appreciated the long-standing role of Chancellor Merkel in providing stable and strong leadership at the European and global stage, and thanked her for guiding the growth of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership.

The two leaders discussed key issues of mutual importance including the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, bilateral ties, regional and global issues, particularly India-EU relations.

The prime minister briefed Chancellor Merkel on the developments in India with regard to vaccine development and assured the chancellor of India's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world, the statement said.

"He conveyed his best wishes for early containment of the new wave of infections in Germany and other European countries," it said. 
Prime Minister Modi also welcomed Germany's decision to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA), and expressed his desire to further strengthen cooperation with Germany under the platform of Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

Noting that this year marks the 70th anniversary of setting up of bilateral relations between India and Germany and 20th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership, the two leaders agreed to hold the sixth Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) at an early date in 2021 and to set an ambitious agenda for the same, the statement said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video-teleconference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday and briefed her on COVID-19 vaccine development in India, while also assuring her of the country's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video-teleconference with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Wednesday and briefed her on COVID-19 vaccine development in India, while also assuring her of the country's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world. A Prime Minister's Office statement said Modi appreciated the long-standing role of Chancellor Merkel in providing stable and strong leadership at the European and global stage, and thanked her for guiding the growth of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. The two leaders discussed key issues of mutual importance including the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, bilateral ties, regional and global issues, particularly India-EU relations. The prime minister briefed Chancellor Merkel on the developments in India with regard to vaccine development and assured the chancellor of India's commitment to deploy its capacities for the benefit of the world, the statement said. "He conveyed his best wishes for early containment of the new wave of infections in Germany and other European countries," it said. Prime Minister Modi also welcomed Germany's decision to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA), and expressed his desire to further strengthen cooperation with Germany under the platform of Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Noting that this year marks the 70th anniversary of setting up of bilateral relations between India and Germany and 20th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership, the two leaders agreed to hold the sixth Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) at an early date in 2021 and to set an ambitious agenda for the same, the statement said.

PM Modi-Angela Merkel hold video-teleconference

The Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld the Central Government's plan for construction of the Central Vista project and the government's proposal to construct a new Parliament in Lutyen's Delhi.&nbsp;

"We hold that there are no infirmities in clearances given, change in land use," a three-judge bench of the court said in a majority verdict.

SC directed project proponent of Central Vista project to install smog tower and use anti-smog guns at all construction sites.

Earlier on December 10, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the new Parliament building under the Central Vista project, which is expected to be completed by 2022. 
 
The Central Vista revamp, announced in September, 2019 envisages a new triangular Parliament building, with seating capacity for 900 to 1,200 MPs, which is to be constructed by August, 2022 when the country will be celebrating its 75th Independence Day.

The common Central Secretariat is likely to be built by 2024 under the project against which various pleas have been filed.

The apex court had earlier said that any change at the ground level made by authorities for the Central Vista project will be "at their own risk".

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld the Central Government's plan for construction of the Central Vista project and the government's proposal to construct a new Parliament in Lutyen's Delhi.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld the Central Government's plan for construction of the Central Vista project and the government's proposal to construct a new Parliament in Lutyen's Delhi. "We hold that there are no infirmities in clearances given, change in land use," a three-judge bench of the court said in a majority verdict. SC directed project proponent of Central Vista project to install smog tower and use anti-smog guns at all construction sites. Earlier on December 10, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the new Parliament building under the Central Vista project, which is expected to be completed by 2022. The Central Vista revamp, announced in September, 2019 envisages a new triangular Parliament building, with seating capacity for 900 to 1,200 MPs, which is to be constructed by August, 2022 when the country will be celebrating its 75th Independence Day. The common Central Secretariat is likely to be built by 2024 under the project against which various pleas have been filed. The apex court had earlier said that any change at the ground level made by authorities for the Central Vista project will be "at their own risk". (With inputs from agencies)

Central vista project: Supreme Court gives go-ahead to redevelopment plan

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