Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said innovation, integrity and inclusion have emerged as the key mantras in the field of management which can help the country achieve the goal of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.

Laying the foundation stone for the permanent campus of IIM-Sambalpur through video conference, the prime minister said the goal of a self-reliant India will be achieved with the help of collaborative, innovative and transformative concepts in management.

Noting that technology is reducing distances between regions, Modi said India has brought speedy reforms in the digital connectivity sector in order to cope with changes taking places all over the world.

"Technologly management is as important as human management," he said, adding the country has been able to build substantial capacity over the last decade which was evident during the COVID-19 crisis.

Emphasising that the young generation should take along those lagging behind to ensure inclusive growth, Modi said local products will have global reach with the help of new management concepts and technology.

"Today's start-ups in India are tomorrow's Multi- national Corporations," he said, and asked young managers to align their career goals to the aspirations of the country.

The prime minister said IIM Sambalpur will go a long way in giving Odisha a new identity in the field of management education apart from creating tremendous opportunities for the handloom and other sectors in the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said innovation, integrity and inclusion have emerged as the key mantras in the field of management which can help the country achieve the goal of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said innovation, integrity and inclusion have emerged as the key mantras in the field of management which can help the country achieve the goal of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'. Laying the foundation stone for the permanent campus of IIM-Sambalpur through video conference, the prime minister said the goal of a self-reliant India will be achieved with the help of collaborative, innovative and transformative concepts in management. Noting that technology is reducing distances between regions, Modi said India has brought speedy reforms in the digital connectivity sector in order to cope with changes taking places all over the world. "Technologly management is as important as human management," he said, adding the country has been able to build substantial capacity over the last decade which was evident during the COVID-19 crisis. Emphasising that the young generation should take along those lagging behind to ensure inclusive growth, Modi said local products will have global reach with the help of new management concepts and technology. "Today's start-ups in India are tomorrow's Multi- national Corporations," he said, and asked young managers to align their career goals to the aspirations of the country. The prime minister said IIM Sambalpur will go a long way in giving Odisha a new identity in the field of management education apart from creating tremendous opportunities for the handloom and other sectors in the region.

Innovation, integrity, inclusion will help build 'Atmanirbhar Bharat': PM Modi

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 96th birth anniversary, stating that his thoughts and dedication to the progress of the country will always give us the strength to serve the nation.

He paid floral tributes to the BJP stalwart at the `Sadaiv Atal` Samadhi in the national capital. Taking to Twitter, Shah said: "Offered floral tributes at Sadaiva Atal on the birth anniversary of the most revered Bharat Ratna Atal ji. Atal ji's thoughts and his dedication to the progress of the country will always give us strength to serve the nation."

"Salutations to the revered Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who started the era of development, the welfare of the poor and good governance in India, and a life devoted to the nation. Atal ji`s duty and national service will always be the focus of inspiration for us. Atal ji`s commitment to work and service to the nation will always be the center of inspiration for us," he added.

Vajpayee's birthday is celebrated as the 'Good Governance Day'.The later leader, who led the National Democratic Alliance government from 1998-2004, was the first-ever leader from the BJP to have become the nation`s Prime Minister.

Vajpayee served as Prime Minister thrice -- briefly in 1996, and then for two terms between 1998 and 2004. One of the prominent leaders of the country and founder members of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Vajpayee died on August 16, 2018, at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) after a prolonged illness. He was 93. The late leader was conferred Bharat Ratna in 2015. He had also been awarded Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant Award for Best Parliamentarian in 1994.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 96th birth anniversary, stating that his thoughts and dedication to the progress of the country will always give us the strength to serve the nation.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 96th birth anniversary, stating that his thoughts and dedication to the progress of the country will always give us the strength to serve the nation. He paid floral tributes to the BJP stalwart at the `Sadaiv Atal` Samadhi in the national capital. Taking to Twitter, Shah said: "Offered floral tributes at Sadaiva Atal on the birth anniversary of the most revered Bharat Ratna Atal ji. Atal ji's thoughts and his dedication to the progress of the country will always give us strength to serve the nation." "Salutations to the revered Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who started the era of development, the welfare of the poor and good governance in India, and a life devoted to the nation. Atal ji`s duty and national service will always be the focus of inspiration for us. Atal ji`s commitment to work and service to the nation will always be the center of inspiration for us," he added. Vajpayee's birthday is celebrated as the 'Good Governance Day'.The later leader, who led the National Democratic Alliance government from 1998-2004, was the first-ever leader from the BJP to have become the nation`s Prime Minister. Vajpayee served as Prime Minister thrice -- briefly in 1996, and then for two terms between 1998 and 2004. One of the prominent leaders of the country and founder members of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Vajpayee died on August 16, 2018, at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) after a prolonged illness. He was 93. The late leader was conferred Bharat Ratna in 2015. He had also been awarded Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant Award for Best Parliamentarian in 1994.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee's national service will always be focus of inspiration for us, says Amit Shah

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc. This is the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country.

The announcements will be on a range of issues from defence to energy, to development partnership to healthcare. On defence, a key focus will be on implementation of India’s Defence Line of Credit for high-speed guard boats for Vietnam. New Delhi has in the past extended defence Lines of Credit worth US $600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-senior-officials-meet-second-time-this-year-india-says-focus-on-covid-vaccine-asean-centrality-350845" hreflang="en">Quad senior officials meet second time this year; India says focus on COVID vaccine, ASEAN centrality</a>

Both countries will discuss projects in water resource management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region, digital connectivity, PhD fellowships, and heritage conservation. They are already engaging under Mekong–Ganga Cooperation, which is a two-decade-old mechanism involving India and five ASEAN countries including Vietnam. They will explore new opportunities in renewable energy cooperation.

This is the ninth such virtual summit of PM Modi. So far, he has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh counterparts.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-vietnam-virtual-summit-on-monday-350783" hreflang="en">India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday</a>

Speaking to WION last month, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "Vietnam has been able to establish direct air link between the two countries, it adds to physical connectivity. Now, on infrastructure connectivity, we hope one day we will have highway connecting various countries crossing Thailand, Cambodia, Laos in order to reach Vietnam."

New Delhi and Hanoi will also issue joint vision on the future development of the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and explore cooperation potential on India’s IPOI (Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative) and ASEAN’s AOIP (ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific) that Vietnam subscribes to.

The virtual summit, a new form of digital diplomacy, comes amidst COVID-19 pandemic and both leaders are expectedly going to take stock of the regional and global situation and explore convergences on new and resilient supply chains. ​India and Vietnam will concurrently serve at the UN Security Council in 2021 as non-permanent members and will use this for a stronger voice for reforms at the 75-year-old body.

Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year, and the last few years have seen a number of high-level visits and engagement between the two countries. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019 and PM Modi in 2016 during which ties were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership". President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018.

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc.

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc. This is the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country. The announcements will be on a range of issues from defence to energy, to development partnership to healthcare. On defence, a key focus will be on implementation of India’s Defence Line of Credit for high-speed guard boats for Vietnam. New Delhi has in the past extended defence Lines of Credit worth US $600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. Also read| Quad senior officials meet second time this year; India says focus on COVID vaccine, ASEAN centrality Both countries will discuss projects in water resource management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region, digital connectivity, PhD fellowships, and heritage conservation. They are already engaging under Mekong–Ganga Cooperation, which is a two-decade-old mechanism involving India and five ASEAN countries including Vietnam. They will explore new opportunities in renewable energy cooperation. This is the ninth such virtual summit of PM Modi. So far, he has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh counterparts. Also read| India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday Speaking to WION last month, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "Vietnam has been able to establish direct air link between the two countries, it adds to physical connectivity. Now, on infrastructure connectivity, we hope one day we will have highway connecting various countries crossing Thailand, Cambodia, Laos in order to reach Vietnam." New Delhi and Hanoi will also issue joint vision on the future development of the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and explore cooperation potential on India’s IPOI (Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative) and ASEAN’s AOIP (ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific) that Vietnam subscribes to. The virtual summit, a new form of digital diplomacy, comes amidst COVID-19 pandemic and both leaders are expectedly going to take stock of the regional and global situation and explore convergences on new and resilient supply chains. India and Vietnam will concurrently serve at the UN Security Council in 2021 as non-permanent members and will use this for a stronger voice for reforms at the 75-year-old body. Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year, and the last few years have seen a number of high-level visits and engagement between the two countries. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019 and PM Modi in 2016 during which ties were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership". President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018.

India, Vietnam virtual summit to see around 27 key outcomes

Describing Vietnam as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy, PM Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the importance of the relationship between New Delhi and Hanoi. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/your-story-indian-pm-modi-and-vietnams-pm-nguyen-xuan-phuc-hold-virtual-meeting-351436/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In his opening remarks for the India-Vietnam virtual bilateral summit, he also expressed sympathy with the loss Vietnam faced due to floods and landslides.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/understand-indian-concept-on-indo-pacific-but-quad-detrimental-to-inclusivity-russia-351345">Understand Indian concept on Indo-Pacific, but Quad detrimental to inclusivity: Russia</a>

The Indian prime minister also said that Vietnam is an "important pillar of India's Act East Policy" and a "big partner" of India's Indo-Pacific vision.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-vietnam-virtual-summit-to-see-around-27-key-outcomes-351235">India, Vietnam virtual summit to see around 27 key outcomes</a>

"The scope of our comprehensive strategic partnership is very wide," Modi said, adding that New Delhi looks at relations with Hanoi with a "long term" and "strategic" view.

"For Indo-Pacific region, peace, stability and progress are our shared objectives," Modi said.

"To establish peace and stability in the region, our partnership can give important contributions."

Modi also said that in this summit, both countries will evaluate the various aspects of cooperation in their comprehensive strategic partnership.

He also said the summit will also give an opportunity to discuss their common issues at the regional and international level.&nbsp;

"Next year, we both will collectively participate as members of United Nations Security Council and that is why our cooperation at a global stage is important," he added.

He also expressed delight that with the summit, they will be able to unveil the Plan of Action of their bilateral engagement in Joint Vision Document 2021-2023.&nbsp;

"With this, the world will get a strong message of our deepening ties," Modi added.

He also said that both countries have signed seven important agreements on security, petrochemicals, renewable energy, cancer treatment, among others.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Describing Vietnam as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy, PM Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the importance of the relationship between New Delhi and Hanoi.

Describing Vietnam as an "important pillar" of India's Act East Policy, PM Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the importance of the relationship between New Delhi and Hanoi. Watch | In his opening remarks for the India-Vietnam virtual bilateral summit, he also expressed sympathy with the loss Vietnam faced due to floods and landslides. Also read | Understand Indian concept on Indo-Pacific, but Quad detrimental to inclusivity: Russia The Indian prime minister also said that Vietnam is an "important pillar of India's Act East Policy" and a "big partner" of India's Indo-Pacific vision. Also read | India, Vietnam virtual summit to see around 27 key outcomes "The scope of our comprehensive strategic partnership is very wide," Modi said, adding that New Delhi looks at relations with Hanoi with a "long term" and "strategic" view. "For Indo-Pacific region, peace, stability and progress are our shared objectives," Modi said. "To establish peace and stability in the region, our partnership can give important contributions." Modi also said that in this summit, both countries will evaluate the various aspects of cooperation in their comprehensive strategic partnership. He also said the summit will also give an opportunity to discuss their common issues at the regional and international level. "Next year, we both will collectively participate as members of United Nations Security Council and that is why our cooperation at a global stage is important," he added. He also expressed delight that with the summit, they will be able to unveil the Plan of Action of their bilateral engagement in Joint Vision Document 2021-2023. "With this, the world will get a strong message of our deepening ties," Modi added. He also said that both countries have signed seven important agreements on security, petrochemicals, renewable energy, cancer treatment, among others.

Vietnam 'important pillar' of India's Act East Policy: PM Narendra Modi

India on Monday handed over the first of 12 High-Speed Guard Boat to Vietnam under the $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi.

The handing over happened at the virtual summit, between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyễn Xuân Phúc during which both sides also launched manufacturing of High-speed Guard Boats and keel laying of 7 such boats which will be manufactured in Vietnam.

While listing out the outcomes on defense at the summit, secretary east, Riva Ganguly Das said, "Both sides agreed to further intensify their defense industry collaboration building on the Indian defense credit lines extended to Viet Nam. An Implementing Arrangement on Defence Industry Cooperation was also signed to this effect."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vietnam-important-pillar-of-indias-act-east-policy-pm-narendra-modi-351386">Vietnam 'important pillar' of India's Act East Policy: PM Narendra Modi</a>

Key focus areas were also on development projects and culture. India handed over seven development projects built with Indian ‘Grant-in-Aid’ Assistance of US$ 1.5 million for the local community in Vietnam's southeast Ninh Thuan province. Additionally, New Delhi has increased the number of Quick Impact Projects to 10, from the current 5 starting FY 2021-2022.

On the cultural front, India will be part of the conservation of 3 historical sites in the ASEAN country--F-block of Temple at My Son, Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery in Quang Nam province, and Nhan Cham Tower in Phu Yen province. India's Archaeological Survey team is already working on the restoration of Cham temples in Central Vietnam where recently a 9th century AD monolithic Shiva Linga was discovered. Both sides also announced the launch of a bilateral project for preparing an Encyclopedia on India - Vietnam Civilizational and Cultural Relations

But perhaps, an outcome that Beijing will keenly note is the mention of UNCLOS in the India Vietnam Joint statement --Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity, and People.&nbsp;

The vision document said, "leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, and freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea" while "pursuing the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), without resorting to threat or use of force."

UNCLOS&nbsp;or United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea was violated by China in 2016 by not accepting the award of the tribunal constituted under it. &nbsp;The tribunal had dismissed the Chinese claim to a large portion of the South China Sea-based on its so-called "nine-dash line".

On the South China Sea which has seen an increased Chinese aggressiveness&nbsp;and attempts to unilaterally stake claims, the statement said, "Both leaders underscored the importance of non-militarisation and self-restraint in the conduct of all activities by claimants and all other states, and avoidance of actions that could further complicate the situation or escalate disputes affecting peace and stability.".

&nbsp;

India on Monday handed over the first of 12 High-Speed Guard Boat to Vietnam under the $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi. The handing over happened at the virtual summit, between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyễn Xuân Phúc during which both sides also launched manufacturing of High-speed Guard Boats and keel laying of 7 such boats which will be manufactured in Vietnam.

India on Monday handed over the first of 12 High-Speed Guard Boat to Vietnam under the $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi. The handing over happened at the virtual summit, between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyễn Xuân Phúc during which both sides also launched manufacturing of High-speed Guard Boats and keel laying of 7 such boats which will be manufactured in Vietnam. While listing out the outcomes on defense at the summit, secretary east, Riva Ganguly Das said, "Both sides agreed to further intensify their defense industry collaboration building on the Indian defense credit lines extended to Viet Nam. An Implementing Arrangement on Defence Industry Cooperation was also signed to this effect." Also read: Vietnam 'important pillar' of India's Act East Policy: PM Narendra Modi Key focus areas were also on development projects and culture. India handed over seven development projects built with Indian ‘Grant-in-Aid’ Assistance of US$ 1.5 million for the local community in Vietnam's southeast Ninh Thuan province. Additionally, New Delhi has increased the number of Quick Impact Projects to 10, from the current 5 starting FY 2021-2022. On the cultural front, India will be part of the conservation of 3 historical sites in the ASEAN country--F-block of Temple at My Son, Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery in Quang Nam province, and Nhan Cham Tower in Phu Yen province. India's Archaeological Survey team is already working on the restoration of Cham temples in Central Vietnam where recently a 9th century AD monolithic Shiva Linga was discovered. Both sides also announced the launch of a bilateral project for preparing an Encyclopedia on India - Vietnam Civilizational and Cultural Relations But perhaps, an outcome that Beijing will keenly note is the mention of UNCLOS in the India Vietnam Joint statement --Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity, and People. The vision document said, "leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, and freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea" while "pursuing the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), without resorting to threat or use of force." UNCLOS or United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea was violated by China in 2016 by not accepting the award of the tribunal constituted under it. The tribunal had dismissed the Chinese claim to a large portion of the South China Sea-based on its so-called "nine-dash line". On the South China Sea which has seen an increased Chinese aggressiveness and attempts to unilaterally stake claims, the statement said, "Both leaders underscored the importance of non-militarisation and self-restraint in the conduct of all activities by claimants and all other states, and avoidance of actions that could further complicate the situation or escalate disputes affecting peace and stability.".

India hands over Vietnam first high-speed boat under $100 million defense credit line

Political audacity combined with a strong organisation storms straight ahead while dominating the flanks. It is the signature action of Narendra Modi, now grown familiar. It does not take anything from the style of politics and governance with its constant self-service of the last many decades.&nbsp;

The unequal Opposition, caught flat-footed, thrown out of the citadels of power, plays old drums and flutes - threats, intimidation, murders, booth-capturing, minority appeasement, arson, riots, lies, embezzlement.&nbsp;

It all worked perfectly well once, the public was none the wiser, beguiled by promises that never seemed to reach their maturity. But now there is the sullen dullness that comes with knowing one has been betrayed. It results however in arrests of the old masters under draconian laws, and attachment of their properties for recompense.

As if on another plane altogether, the Sensex, Nifty, Midcap index and even the Bank Nifty are touching new highs despite an ongoing, though reducing, economic contraction.&nbsp;

There is less panic into gold and silver. Less worry about major bank collapse. Some revival in real estate. New reform for the long-neglected farming sector. There is a great deal of infrastructure building. It is probably the principal driver of the Indian economy through the six years of the Modi administration.&nbsp;

Bold reform, obscured sometimes by strident misinformation spread by the disgraced, in the key areas of labour, land, company law, digitisation, electricity, water, social injustice has been undertaken. More and more transformation is in the offing from this determined government. Our foreign affairs and diplomacy have been completely revamped. India’s position in the world has been rebooted.

Old power brokers and middlemen, rent-seeking bureaucrats, extortionists, commission agents, benami wealth hoarders, runaways, are all under pressure. Promises made again and again in the past are being delivered upon by this government.&nbsp;

The North-East of the country has been drawn into the mainstream. Foreign investors are pouring money into the Indian bourses and into foreign direct investment (FDI). The foreign exchange reserves are at an all-time high, close to USD 500 billion. Contrast this with the near bankruptcy of 1991 before the economy was liberalised.

Now the foreign stock market players are apparently not daunted by steep stock valuations because they are optimistic about the future. It is a liquidity rush yes, but far from mindless speculation.

There is expectation of a global end to Covid with several vaccines to tame it. And a shift of economic attention away from a very badly behaved China. It has become a predatory China, under a misguided CCP, with attitudes better suited to a long-departed age of imperialism. How much time before this 1949 born Red China comes unstuck and on its way to a democracy?

India is and will continue to benefit from standing up to China. The world has taken note. Armaments, organisation and force readiness on land, sea and air, is moving fast. Border area infrastructure is being rapidly completed. If there is a future conflict there is no doubt that India will acquit itself well.&nbsp;

The BJP has recently won decisively in Bihar alongside its ally the JD(U). It is about to repeat the performance in the border state of West Bengal plagued by Islamic aggression, terrorism and infiltration. This is openly supported by the presently ruling TMC, heavily dependent on the nearly 30% Muslim population.&nbsp;

The demographics and the culture of the state have changed alarmingly, much to the quiet annoyance of the Hindu majority. West Bengal has enormous untapped economic potential. It is now firmly looking to the BJP for rescue.&nbsp; 
The chances of it coming to power in the 2021 assembly elections in the state gain ground every day. 
Those who don’t want India to prosper, love the chaos.&nbsp;

The lust to bring down the Modi government at any cost, &nbsp;in spite of it being very popular with the voting masses, is a difficult proposition. Admit it or not, all the brickbats are boomeranging.&nbsp;

There are also substantial chunks of the non-aligned Opposition who vote with and support government initiatives. In parliament, the government’s domination in both houses is now evident. The electoral juggernaut too rolls on from the grassroot elections to panchayats, blocks, districts and city municipalities, all the way through the state assemblies and on towards the national elections.

One narrative is backed by the power of the government. The other by the powerless Opposition and its camp followers determined to trash the whole place if nothing else. The powerful government refuses to retaliate with violence. The powerless Opposition tries even greater provocation.&nbsp;

This has become a familiar see-saw over the last six years, in parliament, in the TV studios, in the speech-making, on the streets. There is arson, rape, murder, false news. There is a desperate scrambling for lost electoral traction, a search for new leadership, even as vested interests refuse to let go.

It is obvious the baton has passed decisively to the BJP and its brand of nationalist, majoritarian politics. The leadership here has dedication honesty and vision. The world can see it.&nbsp;

However, those who have lost after decades in power refuse to do so. The new year 2021 is about to dawn after a most difficult 2020. It will usher in a new decade, the third of the 21st century.&nbsp;

India will prosper like never before, but it will jettison the florid code that hid under the ‘Idea of India’. That made the majority Hindu ashamed of his grand heritage.

Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat is not an inward-looking thing. It is about getting out of the clutches of commission agents and needless imports. It is building a strong domestic military machine for the country’s defence and export. And this government’s ‘New India’ is a very different thing from the false secularism that preceded it. There is room in it for every nationalist of every caste, creed, region and religion, but none for those who want to destroy the country.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Political audacity combined with a strong organisation storms straight ahead while dominating the flanks. It is the signature action of Narendra Modi, now grown familiar.

Political audacity combined with a strong organisation storms straight ahead while dominating the flanks. It is the signature action of Narendra Modi, now grown familiar. It does not take anything from the style of politics and governance with its constant self-service of the last many decades. The unequal Opposition, caught flat-footed, thrown out of the citadels of power, plays old drums and flutes - threats, intimidation, murders, booth-capturing, minority appeasement, arson, riots, lies, embezzlement. It all worked perfectly well once, the public was none the wiser, beguiled by promises that never seemed to reach their maturity. But now there is the sullen dullness that comes with knowing one has been betrayed. It results however in arrests of the old masters under draconian laws, and attachment of their properties for recompense. As if on another plane altogether, the Sensex, Nifty, Midcap index and even the Bank Nifty are touching new highs despite an ongoing, though reducing, economic contraction. There is less panic into gold and silver. Less worry about major bank collapse. Some revival in real estate. New reform for the long-neglected farming sector. There is a great deal of infrastructure building. It is probably the principal driver of the Indian economy through the six years of the Modi administration. Bold reform, obscured sometimes by strident misinformation spread by the disgraced, in the key areas of labour, land, company law, digitisation, electricity, water, social injustice has been undertaken. More and more transformation is in the offing from this determined government. Our foreign affairs and diplomacy have been completely revamped. India’s position in the world has been rebooted. Old power brokers and middlemen, rent-seeking bureaucrats, extortionists, commission agents, benami wealth hoarders, runaways, are all under pressure. Promises made again and again in the past are being delivered upon by this government. The North-East of the country has been drawn into the mainstream. Foreign investors are pouring money into the Indian bourses and into foreign direct investment (FDI). The foreign exchange reserves are at an all-time high, close to USD 500 billion. Contrast this with the near bankruptcy of 1991 before the economy was liberalised. Now the foreign stock market players are apparently not daunted by steep stock valuations because they are optimistic about the future. It is a liquidity rush yes, but far from mindless speculation. There is expectation of a global end to Covid with several vaccines to tame it. And a shift of economic attention away from a very badly behaved China. It has become a predatory China, under a misguided CCP, with attitudes better suited to a long-departed age of imperialism. How much time before this 1949 born Red China comes unstuck and on its way to a democracy? India is and will continue to benefit from standing up to China. The world has taken note. Armaments, organisation and force readiness on land, sea and air, is moving fast. Border area infrastructure is being rapidly completed. If there is a future conflict there is no doubt that India will acquit itself well. The BJP has recently won decisively in Bihar alongside its ally the JD(U). It is about to repeat the performance in the border state of West Bengal plagued by Islamic aggression, terrorism and infiltration. This is openly supported by the presently ruling TMC, heavily dependent on the nearly 30% Muslim population. The demographics and the culture of the state have changed alarmingly, much to the quiet annoyance of the Hindu majority. West Bengal has enormous untapped economic potential. It is now firmly looking to the BJP for rescue. The chances of it coming to power in the 2021 assembly elections in the state gain ground every day. Those who don’t want India to prosper, love the chaos. The lust to bring down the Modi government at any cost, in spite of it being very popular with the voting masses, is a difficult proposition. Admit it or not, all the brickbats are boomeranging. There are also substantial chunks of the non-aligned Opposition who vote with and support government initiatives. In parliament, the government’s domination in both houses is now evident. The electoral juggernaut too rolls on from the grassroot elections to panchayats, blocks, districts and city municipalities, all the way through the state assemblies and on towards the national elections. One narrative is backed by the power of the government. The other by the powerless Opposition and its camp followers determined to trash the whole place if nothing else. The powerful government refuses to retaliate with violence. The powerless Opposition tries even greater provocation. This has become a familiar see-saw over the last six years, in parliament, in the TV studios, in the speech-making, on the streets. There is arson, rape, murder, false news. There is a desperate scrambling for lost electoral traction, a search for new leadership, even as vested interests refuse to let go. It is obvious the baton has passed decisively to the BJP and its brand of nationalist, majoritarian politics. The leadership here has dedication honesty and vision. The world can see it. However, those who have lost after decades in power refuse to do so. The new year 2021 is about to dawn after a most difficult 2020. It will usher in a new decade, the third of the 21st century. India will prosper like never before, but it will jettison the florid code that hid under the ‘Idea of India’. That made the majority Hindu ashamed of his grand heritage. Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat is not an inward-looking thing. It is about getting out of the clutches of commission agents and needless imports. It is building a strong domestic military machine for the country’s defence and export. And this government’s ‘New India’ is a very different thing from the false secularism that preceded it. There is room in it for every nationalist of every caste, creed, region and religion, but none for those who want to destroy the country. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Opinion: Stock market flies banner of new India, Opposition hate rages

India's&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc will hold a virtual summit on Monday, December 21, Vietnam's Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang has announced.

This will be the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country. Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year and recent years have seen a number of high-level engagements and visits.

"During the Summit, the two leaders will exchange views on wide-ranging bilateral, regional and global issues and provide guidance for the future development of India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," an official <a href="https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/33317/Virtual_Summit_between_Prime_Minister_Shri_Narendra_Modi_and_Prime_Minister_of_Vietnam_HE_Nguyen_Xuan_Phuc">statement</a> by the&nbsp;Ministry of External Affairs read.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-produce-about-300-mn-doses-of-russian-vaccine-new-deals-signed-350702" hreflang="en">India to produce about 300 mn doses of Russian vaccine; new deals signed</a>

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018 and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019. President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018. During the 2016 visit of PM Modi, ties between India and Vietnam were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership", a status Vietnam shares with only two&nbsp;other countries&nbsp; — Russia and China.&nbsp;

The India Vietnam virtual summit will be the ninth virtual summit of the Indian PM. He has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh so far. Earlier this month, under this new form of digital diplomacy, he had had virtual summits with his Uzbek and Bangladeshi counterpart.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farm-laws-have-not-been-introduced-overnight-pm-modi-slams-opposition-for-misguiding-farmers-350700" hreflang="en">Farm laws have not been introduced overnight, PM Modi slams opposition for 'misguiding' farmers</a>

Last month speaking to WION, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "India is a very important country, it is going to be the global partner for ASEAN and as a global player India will assume responsibility in many many fields. So we need to strengthen further cooperation that has been in existence between ASEAN and India, also between India and Vietnam."

New Delhi sees Vietnam as the vital&nbsp;pillar of its ‘Act East Policy’ and an essential partner in ‘Indo-Pacific Ocean’s Initiative (IPOI)’.

Vietnam is among 11 countries where India under its defense cooperation has deputed Mobile training teams. Defense Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million being oriented towards strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defense manufacturing. Both India and Vietnam will serve concurrently as non-permanent members at the United Nations Security Council in 2021.&nbsp;

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc will hold a virtual summit on Monday, December 21, Vietnam's Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang has announced.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc will hold a virtual summit on Monday, December 21, Vietnam's Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang has announced. This will be the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country. Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year and recent years have seen a number of high-level engagements and visits. "During the Summit, the two leaders will exchange views on wide-ranging bilateral, regional and global issues and provide guidance for the future development of India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs read. Also read| India to produce about 300 mn doses of Russian vaccine; new deals signed Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018 and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019. President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018. During the 2016 visit of PM Modi, ties between India and Vietnam were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership", a status Vietnam shares with only two other countries — Russia and China. The India Vietnam virtual summit will be the ninth virtual summit of the Indian PM. He has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh so far. Earlier this month, under this new form of digital diplomacy, he had had virtual summits with his Uzbek and Bangladeshi counterpart. Also read| Farm laws have not been introduced overnight, PM Modi slams opposition for 'misguiding' farmers Last month speaking to WION, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "India is a very important country, it is going to be the global partner for ASEAN and as a global player India will assume responsibility in many many fields. So we need to strengthen further cooperation that has been in existence between ASEAN and India, also between India and Vietnam." New Delhi sees Vietnam as the vital pillar of its ‘Act East Policy’ and an essential partner in ‘Indo-Pacific Ocean’s Initiative (IPOI)’. Vietnam is among 11 countries where India under its defense cooperation has deputed Mobile training teams. Defense Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million being oriented towards strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defense manufacturing. Both India and Vietnam will serve concurrently as non-permanent members at the United Nations Security Council in 2021.

India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday

Expressing her gratitude to the country and the Indian Army for their support during the 1971 liberation war, Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said that India is Bangladesh's true friend

Addressing a virtual summit with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, Hasina said that she is happy to meet him again, particularly on this month of victory. 
&nbsp;

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Bangladesh is on the verge of celebrating 50 years as an independent nation. Your (PM Modi) visit to Dhaka on 26th March 2021 will be the crowning glory of our joint commemoration of Bangladesh's Liberation War 1971: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina <a href="https://t.co/MNdjUqrYid">pic.twitter.com/MNdjUqrYid</a>
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December evokes in all Bangladeshis the spirit of joy, freedom and celebration as we recall with deep gratitude our 'Father of the Nation' Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Under whose dynamic leadership we earned our great independence,? she said.

'India is our true friend,' the Bangladesh Prime Minister said.

I pay deep homage to the three million martyrs who laid down their lives. I pay tribute to the members of the Indian armed forces martyred in the war and to their families. I pay my gratitude to the government and the people of India who extended their wholehearted support for the cause of our nation, she said.

The war in 1971 broke after the sudden crackdown at midnight past on March 25, 1971, in erstwhile East Pakistan by the Pakistani troops and ended on December 16.&nbsp;

The same year Pakistan conceded defeat and unconditionally surrendered in Dhaka to the allied forces comprising the freedom fighters and the Indian soldiers.

Officially three million people were killed during the nine-month-long war.

Modi and Hasina jointly inaugurated a digital exhibition on Mujibur Rahman and Mahatma Gandhi to celebrate the life and legacies of the iconic leaders.

Hasina and Modi also relaunched a trans-border rail route between Chilahati and West Bengal's Haldibari which has been inoperative for almost 55 years.

The ties between India and Bangladesh have witnessed a significant upswing in the last few years. Both sides have scaled up to trade and economic engagement besides implementing several connectivity and infrastructure projects.

(With inputs from agencies)

Expressing her gratitude to the country and the Indian Army for their support during the 1971 liberation war, Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said that India is Bangladesh's true friend Addressing a virtual summit with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, Hasina said that she is happy to meet him again, particularly on this month of victory.

Expressing her gratitude to the country and the Indian Army for their support during the 1971 liberation war, Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said that India is Bangladesh's true friend Addressing a virtual summit with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, Hasina said that she is happy to meet him again, particularly on this month of victory. Bangladesh is on the verge of celebrating 50 years as an independent nation. Your (PM Modi) visit to Dhaka on 26th March 2021 will be the crowning glory of our joint commemoration of Bangladesh's Liberation War 1971: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina pic.twitter.com/MNdjUqrYid — ANI (@ANI) December 17, 2020 × December evokes in all Bangladeshis the spirit of joy, freedom and celebration as we recall with deep gratitude our 'Father of the Nation' Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Under whose dynamic leadership we earned our great independence,? she said. 'India is our true friend,' the Bangladesh Prime Minister said. I pay deep homage to the three million martyrs who laid down their lives. I pay tribute to the members of the Indian armed forces martyred in the war and to their families. I pay my gratitude to the government and the people of India who extended their wholehearted support for the cause of our nation, she said. The war in 1971 broke after the sudden crackdown at midnight past on March 25, 1971, in erstwhile East Pakistan by the Pakistani troops and ended on December 16. The same year Pakistan conceded defeat and unconditionally surrendered in Dhaka to the allied forces comprising the freedom fighters and the Indian soldiers. Officially three million people were killed during the nine-month-long war. Modi and Hasina jointly inaugurated a digital exhibition on Mujibur Rahman and Mahatma Gandhi to celebrate the life and legacies of the iconic leaders. Hasina and Modi also relaunched a trans-border rail route between Chilahati and West Bengal's Haldibari which has been inoperative for almost 55 years. The ties between India and Bangladesh have witnessed a significant upswing in the last few years. Both sides have scaled up to trade and economic engagement besides implementing several connectivity and infrastructure projects. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina calls India a 'true friend', thanks Indian army for help in 1971 liberation war

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundations Tuesday for what he said would be the world's largest renewable energy park, set to produce a massive 30 gigawatts of electricity.

The vast project in the Kutch region of western Gujarat state spread over&nbsp;an area of 72,600 hectares (180,000 acres) — the size of Singapore&nbsp;— will contain solar panels, solar energy storage units and windmills.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-johnsons-visit-dominic-raab-jaishankar-seek-to-deepen-india-uk-ties-349926" hreflang="en">Ahead of PM Johnson's visit, Dominic Raab, Jaishankar seek to deepen India, UK ties</a>

"The hybrid renewable energy park will be largest in the world and generate 30,000 megawatts of power," Modi said as he inaugurated the energy park as well as an adjacent desalination plant.

"Energy security and water security are vital in the 21st century," Modi said. "The two major projects of the renewable energy park and the desalination plant inaugurated today in Kutch are steps towards achieving the two."

The energy project in Modi's home state will account for a large chunk of India's ambitious target of generating 175 GW in renewable energy by 2022 and 450 GW by 2030.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-sardar-patel-on-his-death-anniversary-349834" hreflang="en">PM Modi pays tribute to Sardar Patel on his death anniversary</a>

Modi, 70, said it would also help the world's second-most populous country reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by up to 50 million tonnes per year.

The desalination plant will be able to process 100 million litres of water a day for 800,000 people living in the arid region bordering Pakistan.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundations Tuesday for what he said would be the world's largest renewable energy park, set to produce a massive 30 gigawatts of electricity.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundations Tuesday for what he said would be the world's largest renewable energy park, set to produce a massive 30 gigawatts of electricity. The vast project in the Kutch region of western Gujarat state spread over an area of 72,600 hectares (180,000 acres) — the size of Singapore — will contain solar panels, solar energy storage units and windmills. Also read| Ahead of PM Johnson's visit, Dominic Raab, Jaishankar seek to deepen India, UK ties "The hybrid renewable energy park will be largest in the world and generate 30,000 megawatts of power," Modi said as he inaugurated the energy park as well as an adjacent desalination plant. "Energy security and water security are vital in the 21st century," Modi said. "The two major projects of the renewable energy park and the desalination plant inaugurated today in Kutch are steps towards achieving the two." The energy project in Modi's home state will account for a large chunk of India's ambitious target of generating 175 GW in renewable energy by 2022 and 450 GW by 2030. Also read| PM Modi pays tribute to Sardar Patel on his death anniversary Modi, 70, said it would also help the world's second-most populous country reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by up to 50 million tonnes per year. The desalination plant will be able to process 100 million litres of water a day for 800,000 people living in the arid region bordering Pakistan.

PM Modi lays foundations for renewable energy megapark

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute&nbsp;to the `Iron Man of India` Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 70th death anniversary on Tuesday. Modi said that the path shown by Sardar Patel will always inspire to protect the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India.

"Tribute to Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel who laid the foundation of a strong and prosperous India on his death anniversary. The path shown by him will always inspire us to protect the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country," the PM wrote on Twitter (roughly translated from Hindi).

Born on October 31, 1875, Sardar Patel, who is credited with uniting all 562 princely states of the pre-independent country to build the Republic of India, passed away on December 15, 1950.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the `Iron Man of India` Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 70th death anniversary on Tuesday. Modi said that the path shown by Sardar Patel will always inspire to protect the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the `Iron Man of India` Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 70th death anniversary on Tuesday. Modi said that the path shown by Sardar Patel will always inspire to protect the unity, integrity, and sovereignty of India. "Tribute to Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel who laid the foundation of a strong and prosperous India on his death anniversary. The path shown by him will always inspire us to protect the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country," the PM wrote on Twitter (roughly translated from Hindi). Born on October 31, 1875, Sardar Patel, who is credited with uniting all 562 princely states of the pre-independent country to build the Republic of India, passed away on December 15, 1950.

PM Modi pays tribute to Sardar Patel on his death anniversary

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday paid tribute to the victims of the terrorist attack on the Parliament building in 2001.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and the leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad also extended their tributes.

In pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-pakistan-backed-terrorists-attacked-the-indian-parliament-19-years-ago-349428" hreflang="en">How Pakistan-backed terrorists attacked the Indian Parliament 19 years ago</a> 
 
"Paid floral tributes to the brave martyrs who laid down their lives while protecting our Parliament in the 2001 terrorist attack. I bow to their exemplary courage and sacrifice," Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted.&nbsp;

“My humble tribute to personnel from police and Parliament who lost their lives on this day in 2001, in a bid to protect the House. Their loyalty and valour will continue to inspire us and further strengthen our resolve to fight against terrorism," Om Birla tweeted in Hindi.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-rajnath-singh-pays-homage-to-victims-of-parliament-attack-349414" hreflang="en">Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pays homage to victims of parliament attack</a>

”We will never forget the cowardly attack on our Parliament on this day in 2001. We recall the valour and sacrifice of those who lost their lives protecting our Parliament. India will always be thankful to them," PM Modi also tweeted. 
 
On December 13, 2001, terrorists belonging to Pakistani terror outfits - Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed attacked the Indian Parliament, leading to the deaths of 14 people, including 5 terrorists. In addition, 18 people were injured.&nbsp;

Five terrorists with fake Indian Home Ministry and Parliament labels entered the premises. At that time, 100 major politicians including the Home Minister during that time - LK Advani were inside the building.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday paid tribute to the victims of the terrorist attack on the Parliament building in 2001.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday paid tribute to the victims of the terrorist attack on the Parliament building in 2001. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, and the leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad also extended their tributes. In pics: How Pakistan-backed terrorists attacked the Indian Parliament 19 years ago "Paid floral tributes to the brave martyrs who laid down their lives while protecting our Parliament in the 2001 terrorist attack. I bow to their exemplary courage and sacrifice," Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted. “My humble tribute to personnel from police and Parliament who lost their lives on this day in 2001, in a bid to protect the House. Their loyalty and valour will continue to inspire us and further strengthen our resolve to fight against terrorism," Om Birla tweeted in Hindi. Also read: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pays homage to victims of parliament attack ”We will never forget the cowardly attack on our Parliament on this day in 2001. We recall the valour and sacrifice of those who lost their lives protecting our Parliament. India will always be thankful to them," PM Modi also tweeted. On December 13, 2001, terrorists belonging to Pakistani terror outfits - Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed attacked the Indian Parliament, leading to the deaths of 14 people, including 5 terrorists. In addition, 18 people were injured. Five terrorists with fake Indian Home Ministry and Parliament labels entered the premises. At that time, 100 major politicians including the Home Minister during that time - LK Advani were inside the building.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to the victims of 2001 Parliament attack

The Afghan peace process must be "led, owned and controlled"&nbsp;by Afghanistan and it is necessary to preserve the achievements of the past two decades, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday.

In his opening remarks at a virtual summit with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Modi also said India and Uzbekistan are standing together firmly against terrorism and have similar concerns over extremism, fundamentalism and separatism.

"We have similar concerns about extremism, fundamentalism and separatism. We both stand firmly together against terrorism. We also have a similar approach on regional security issues," the prime minister said.

"We agree that the restoration of peace in Afghanistan requires a process that itself is led, owned and controlled by Afghanistan. It is also necessary to preserve the achievements of the last two decades," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/race-is-on-for-strategic-bases-in-indian-ocean-region-says-cds-bipin-rawat-349038">Race is on for strategic bases in Indian Ocean Region, says CDS Bipin Rawat</a>

The prime minister's comments on Afghanistan come in the midst of renewed momentum in the Afghan peace process.&nbsp; 
Top Afghan peace negotiator Abdullah Abdullah and several other senior leaders from the country visited India in the last few months to apprise about the peace process.

In his remarks, Modi also said that India wants to further intensify its development partnership with Uzbekistan and expressed happiness that many projects are being considered in that country under the Indian Line of Credit.

Uzbekistan is a key country in Central Asia which India considers as its 'extended neighbourhood'. The bilateral ties now encompass a wider canvas of cooperation including in areas of defence and security, trade and investment, energy, agriculture, education and science and technology.

Both countries are currently negotiating a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) and a preferential trade agreement. Last year, a pact was sealed providing for long-term purchase of uranium by India from Uzbekistan.

In his remarks, the prime minister also referred to cooperation between the two countries in key areas of defence, space and atomic energy sectors.

"Our security partnership is becoming a strong pillar of bilateral relations. Last year, the first joint military exercise between our armed forces took place. Our joint efforts are also increasing in the areas of space and atomic energy," he said.

Modi also said India was ready to share its expertise and experience with Uzbekistan as per its development priorities.

"India has great potential in areas such as infrastructure, IT, education, health, training and capacity building, which can be useful for Uzbekistan. The establishment of a joint working group on agriculture among us is an important and positive step," he said.

"With this we can find opportunities to increase our agricultural trade which will help the farmers of both countries," he added.

Modi also talked about cooperation between the two countries during the coronavirus pandemic.

"It is also a matter of satisfaction that during this difficult time of the COVID-19 epidemic, both countries have fully supported each other, whether to supply medicines or to ensure return of each other's citizens to home," he said.

The Afghan peace process must be "led, owned and controlled" by Afghanistan and it is necessary to preserve the achievements of the past two decades, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday.

The Afghan peace process must be "led, owned and controlled" by Afghanistan and it is necessary to preserve the achievements of the past two decades, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday. In his opening remarks at a virtual summit with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Modi also said India and Uzbekistan are standing together firmly against terrorism and have similar concerns over extremism, fundamentalism and separatism. "We have similar concerns about extremism, fundamentalism and separatism. We both stand firmly together against terrorism. We also have a similar approach on regional security issues," the prime minister said. "We agree that the restoration of peace in Afghanistan requires a process that itself is led, owned and controlled by Afghanistan. It is also necessary to preserve the achievements of the last two decades," he said. Also Read | Race is on for strategic bases in Indian Ocean Region, says CDS Bipin Rawat The prime minister's comments on Afghanistan come in the midst of renewed momentum in the Afghan peace process. Top Afghan peace negotiator Abdullah Abdullah and several other senior leaders from the country visited India in the last few months to apprise about the peace process. In his remarks, Modi also said that India wants to further intensify its development partnership with Uzbekistan and expressed happiness that many projects are being considered in that country under the Indian Line of Credit. Uzbekistan is a key country in Central Asia which India considers as its 'extended neighbourhood'. The bilateral ties now encompass a wider canvas of cooperation including in areas of defence and security, trade and investment, energy, agriculture, education and science and technology. Both countries are currently negotiating a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) and a preferential trade agreement. Last year, a pact was sealed providing for long-term purchase of uranium by India from Uzbekistan. In his remarks, the prime minister also referred to cooperation between the two countries in key areas of defence, space and atomic energy sectors. "Our security partnership is becoming a strong pillar of bilateral relations. Last year, the first joint military exercise between our armed forces took place. Our joint efforts are also increasing in the areas of space and atomic energy," he said. Modi also said India was ready to share its expertise and experience with Uzbekistan as per its development priorities. "India has great potential in areas such as infrastructure, IT, education, health, training and capacity building, which can be useful for Uzbekistan. The establishment of a joint working group on agriculture among us is an important and positive step," he said. "With this we can find opportunities to increase our agricultural trade which will help the farmers of both countries," he added. Modi also talked about cooperation between the two countries during the coronavirus pandemic. "It is also a matter of satisfaction that during this difficult time of the COVID-19 epidemic, both countries have fully supported each other, whether to supply medicines or to ensure return of each other's citizens to home," he said.

Gains of past two decades need to be preserved: PM Modi on Afghan peace process

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that the previous Parliament house - which was constructed 100 years ago - fulfilled the needs of the country, and the new building will fulfil the country’s aspirations and ambitions.

He said that the new Parliament building will be a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat and that the aspirations of 21st century India will be fulfilled in the new building.

The Prime Minister expressed his views while laying the foundation stone of new Parliament building which is proposed to be completed in 2022 when the country will celebrate the 75th year of Independence.

"If the old Parliament House gave direction to post-independence India, the new building would become a witness to the creation of a self-reliant India. The new Parliament building will be the symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat," said the Prime Minister while addressing members of Parliament and other dignitaries present in the event at the Parliament House premises.

"If work is done to fulfil the needs of the country in the old Parliament House, then the aspirations of 21st century India will be fulfilled in the new building."

Continuing his speech with a vision of making "India as the mother of democracy" for the world, the Prime Minister said the world has been witnessing India in achieving success in the 21st Century.

The Prime Minister appealed to citizens to give their best to make India gain the highest honours in the 21st Century.

Noting that the existing Parliament building was constructed 93 years ago, the Prime Minister

said that the new Parliament building is the mixture of the new and the old.

"This is the need of the 21st Century India to construct a new Parliament building. The new building will improve the efficiency of parliamentarians as it will be equipped with modern infrastructure."

He also said that every parliamentarian will have to be more dedicated to service to make the new Parliament building a temple with their conduct, thought and behaviour.

The new Parliament building will be built in an area of 64,500 sq metre at an estimated cost of Rs 971 crore.

The new Parliament building has been designed by HCP Design and Management Pvt Ltd Ahmedabad and the construction would be carried out by Tata Projects Ltd, keeping the needs and requirements for the next 100 years in mind.

The building is to be equipped with all modern audiovisual communication facilities and data network systems.

Each Member of Parliament would also be provided with a 40 square metre office space in the redeveloped Shram Shakti Bhawan, construction for which is slated to be completed by 2024.

The building will have a seating capacity for 888 members in the Lok Sabha chamber with an option to increase to 1,224 members during Joint Sessions. Similarly, the Rajya Sabha Chamber would have a seating capacity of 384 members.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that the previous Parliament house - which was constructed 100 years ago - fulfilled the needs of the country, and the new building will fulfil the country’s aspirations and ambitions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said that the previous Parliament house - which was constructed 100 years ago - fulfilled the needs of the country, and the new building will fulfil the country’s aspirations and ambitions. He said that the new Parliament building will be a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat and that the aspirations of 21st century India will be fulfilled in the new building. The Prime Minister expressed his views while laying the foundation stone of new Parliament building which is proposed to be completed in 2022 when the country will celebrate the 75th year of Independence. "If the old Parliament House gave direction to post-independence India, the new building would become a witness to the creation of a self-reliant India. The new Parliament building will be the symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat," said the Prime Minister while addressing members of Parliament and other dignitaries present in the event at the Parliament House premises. "If work is done to fulfil the needs of the country in the old Parliament House, then the aspirations of 21st century India will be fulfilled in the new building." Continuing his speech with a vision of making "India as the mother of democracy" for the world, the Prime Minister said the world has been witnessing India in achieving success in the 21st Century. The Prime Minister appealed to citizens to give their best to make India gain the highest honours in the 21st Century. Noting that the existing Parliament building was constructed 93 years ago, the Prime Minister said that the new Parliament building is the mixture of the new and the old. "This is the need of the 21st Century India to construct a new Parliament building. The new building will improve the efficiency of parliamentarians as it will be equipped with modern infrastructure." He also said that every parliamentarian will have to be more dedicated to service to make the new Parliament building a temple with their conduct, thought and behaviour. The new Parliament building will be built in an area of 64,500 sq metre at an estimated cost of Rs 971 crore. The new Parliament building has been designed by HCP Design and Management Pvt Ltd Ahmedabad and the construction would be carried out by Tata Projects Ltd, keeping the needs and requirements for the next 100 years in mind. The building is to be equipped with all modern audiovisual communication facilities and data network systems. Each Member of Parliament would also be provided with a 40 square metre office space in the redeveloped Shram Shakti Bhawan, construction for which is slated to be completed by 2024. The building will have a seating capacity for 888 members in the Lok Sabha chamber with an option to increase to 1,224 members during Joint Sessions. Similarly, the Rajya Sabha Chamber would have a seating capacity of 384 members. (With inputs from agencies)

Old Parliament building fulfilled needs of India, new will fulfil aspirations: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the new Parliament building, which is expected to be completed by 2022.

Priests from the Sringeri Math Karnataka did the rituals for the 'bhoomi pujan' at the new Parliament building site and it was followed by a 'sarva dharma prarthana' (inter-faith prayer).

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh also offered prayers during the ceremony.

The new building will have an area of 64,500 square metres.

It will also have a grand Constitution Hall to showcase India's democratic heritage, a lounge for members of Parliament, a library, multiple committee rooms, dining areas and ample parking space.

In the new building, the Lok Sabha chamber will have a seating capacity for 888 members, while the Rajya Sabha will have 384 seats for members. The Lok Sabha chamber will have an option to increase its sitting capacity to 1,224 members during joint sessions. 
&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils a plaque to mark the foundation stone laying ceremony of New Parliament Building in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/k7eYzd0cey">pic.twitter.com/k7eYzd0cey</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1336941560194338816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This has been done keeping in mind the future increase in the number of members for the two houses.

At present, Lok Sabha has a sanctioned strength of 543 members and Rajya Sabha 245.

In September this year, Tata Projects Limited won the bid to construct the new Parliament building. The new building will be constructed close to the existing one under the Central Vista redevelopment project.

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पीएम श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> नई दिल्ली में संसद के नए भवन का शिलान्यास करते हुए। <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewParliament4NewIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewParliament4NewIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/GKIQAUaeee">pic.twitter.com/GKIQAUaeee</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1336939894531186690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The existing Parliament House building will be suitably retro-fitted to provide more functional spaces for parliamentary events, to ensure its usage along with the new building.

The existing building is a massive circular edifice of 560 feet in diameter. The Parliament House Estate is enclosed by an ornamental red sandstone wall or iron grills with iron gates that can be closed when occasions demand. The building has 12 gates.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the new Parliament building, which is expected to be completed by 2022. Priests from the Sringeri Math Karnataka did the rituals for the 'bhoomi pujan' at the new Parliament building site and it was followed by a 'sarva dharma prarthana' (inter-faith prayer).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the new Parliament building, which is expected to be completed by 2022. Priests from the Sringeri Math Karnataka did the rituals for the 'bhoomi pujan' at the new Parliament building site and it was followed by a 'sarva dharma prarthana' (inter-faith prayer). Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, Urban Development Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh also offered prayers during the ceremony. The new building will have an area of 64,500 square metres. It will also have a grand Constitution Hall to showcase India's democratic heritage, a lounge for members of Parliament, a library, multiple committee rooms, dining areas and ample parking space. In the new building, the Lok Sabha chamber will have a seating capacity for 888 members, while the Rajya Sabha will have 384 seats for members. The Lok Sabha chamber will have an option to increase its sitting capacity to 1,224 members during joint sessions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils a plaque to mark the foundation stone laying ceremony of New Parliament Building in Delhi pic.twitter.com/k7eYzd0cey — ANI (@ANI) December 10, 2020 × This has been done keeping in mind the future increase in the number of members for the two houses. At present, Lok Sabha has a sanctioned strength of 543 members and Rajya Sabha 245. In September this year, Tata Projects Limited won the bid to construct the new Parliament building. The new building will be constructed close to the existing one under the Central Vista redevelopment project. पीएम श्री @narendramodi नई दिल्ली में संसद के नए भवन का शिलान्यास करते हुए। #NewParliament4NewIndia pic.twitter.com/GKIQAUaeee — BJP (@BJP4India) December 10, 2020 × The existing Parliament House building will be suitably retro-fitted to provide more functional spaces for parliamentary events, to ensure its usage along with the new building. The existing building is a massive circular edifice of 560 feet in diameter. The Parliament House Estate is enclosed by an ornamental red sandstone wall or iron grills with iron gates that can be closed when occasions demand. The building has 12 gates. (With inputs from agencies)

Central Vista project: PM Modi lays foundation stone for new Parliament building

Twitter India's annual report, #ThisHappened2020, has been formally released and the Indian&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the only Asian to feature in the top 10 list of the 'people most tweeted about' in the year 2020. Cricketers Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni,&nbsp;Tamil actor Vijay and Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, too, have made to top trends.

<img alt="The Most Talked About People on Twitter in 2020" src="https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/XRWoiakmwC4MoSX64iGnz4-320-80.png" />

This Twitter list has been compiled on the basis of tweets, quote retweets, likes and retweets from&nbsp;the Twitter users from the start of the year till November 15.&nbsp;With Indian Twitter having third most users in the world (close to&nbsp;19 million), the Indian Prime Minister Modi became the seventh most tweeted about person in the world, with US President Donald Trump leading the list, despite losing the US elections.

"From the fight against this global pandemic, rejoicing in celebratory moments, standing up for those communities impacted by the pandemic, to bonding over rediscovered shows, interests and memes, India came together beautifully on Twitter this year," said&nbsp;Twitter India managing director Manish Maheshwari.

Modi's tweet about '9 minutes on 9pm' became one of the most retweeted tweet of the year with nearly&nbsp;106.5k retweets.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9pm9minute?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9pm9minute</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1246666853415407617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Showing the power of regional cinema, Tamil actor Vijay topped the list of most retweeted tweet from the entertainment industry with nearly&nbsp;145.8k retweets on his selfie with fans in&nbsp;Neyveli, Tamil Nadu in February.

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Thank you Neyveli <a href="https://t.co/cXQC8iPukl">pic.twitter.com/cXQC8iPukl</a>
— Vijay (@actorvijay) <a href="https://twitter.com/actorvijay/status/1226863840513515520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, Amitabh Bachchan, also known as 'Big B' topped the list of most-liked&nbsp;and quoted tweet of the year for the tweet informing about him testing positive for COVID-19.

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T 3590 -I have tested CoviD positive .. shifted to Hospital .. hospital informing authorities .. family and staff undergone tests , results awaited .. 
All that have been in close proximity to me in the last 10 days are requested to please get themselves tested !
— Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) <a href="https://twitter.com/SrBachchan/status/1282002456063295490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Other popular mentions were #SushantSinghRajput, whose name and movie 'Dil Bechara' trended sadly after his unfortunate death and the controversy around it.

In sports, the Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli topped the list of most popular personality for the tweet announcing the pregnancy of his wife and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma with the caption, "And then, we were three! Arriving Jan 2021".

Next in line was the former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni whose tweet about his retirement sent shock waves around the country and international borders, making&nbsp;it one of the most popular tweets of the year.

Twitter India's annual report, #ThisHappened2020, has been formally released and the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the only Asian to feature in the top 10 list of the 'people most tweeted about' in the year 2020.

Twitter India's annual report, #ThisHappened2020, has been formally released and the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the only Asian to feature in the top 10 list of the 'people most tweeted about' in the year 2020. Cricketers Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Tamil actor Vijay and Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, too, have made to top trends. This Twitter list has been compiled on the basis of tweets, quote retweets, likes and retweets from the Twitter users from the start of the year till November 15. With Indian Twitter having third most users in the world (close to 19 million), the Indian Prime Minister Modi became the seventh most tweeted about person in the world, with US President Donald Trump leading the list, despite losing the US elections. "From the fight against this global pandemic, rejoicing in celebratory moments, standing up for those communities impacted by the pandemic, to bonding over rediscovered shows, interests and memes, India came together beautifully on Twitter this year," said Twitter India managing director Manish Maheshwari. Modi's tweet about '9 minutes on 9pm' became one of the most retweeted tweet of the year with nearly 106.5k retweets. #9pm9minute — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 5, 2020 × Showing the power of regional cinema, Tamil actor Vijay topped the list of most retweeted tweet from the entertainment industry with nearly 145.8k retweets on his selfie with fans in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu in February. Thank you Neyveli pic.twitter.com/cXQC8iPukl — Vijay (@actorvijay) February 10, 2020 × However, Amitabh Bachchan, also known as 'Big B' topped the list of most-liked and quoted tweet of the year for the tweet informing about him testing positive for COVID-19. T 3590 -I have tested CoviD positive .. shifted to Hospital .. hospital informing authorities .. family and staff undergone tests , results awaited .. All that have been in close proximity to me in the last 10 days are requested to please get themselves tested ! — Amitabh Bachchan (@SrBachchan) July 11, 2020 × Other popular mentions were #SushantSinghRajput, whose name and movie 'Dil Bechara' trended sadly after his unfortunate death and the controversy around it. In sports, the Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli topped the list of most popular personality for the tweet announcing the pregnancy of his wife and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma with the caption, "And then, we were three! Arriving Jan 2021". Next in line was the former Indian cricket team captain MS Dhoni whose tweet about his retirement sent shock waves around the country and international borders, making it one of the most popular tweets of the year.

#ThisHappened2020: Modi features in top 10 Twitter mentions; Kohli and Dhoni top trending charts

PM Modi to lay foundation stone for new Parliament building on December 10

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay foundation stone for new Parliament building and will carry out 'Bhoomi Poojan' or ground-breaking ceremony on December 10. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla last week took round of the building to assess the site for foundation laying ceremony.

"On December 10, the Prime Minister will perform Bhumi Pujan for the new state-of-the-art Parliament building," he told ANI.

The construction is due to begin this month. Lok Sabha chamber in the new Parliament building will have seating capacity of 888 against present strength of 543 members. Rajya Sabha will be able to accommodate 384 seats as compared to current strength of 245 members. The maximum capacity for Lok Sabha chamber is expected to be 1272 seats for joint sittings.

ecretary-general Utpal Kumar Singh while taking charge of his new office informed that the agencies will try and finish the construction within less than two years so that 75th year of Indian independence can be commemorated in the new Parliament. The proposed built-up area of the new building is estimated to be 64500 square metres.&nbsp;

HCP Design, Planning and Management Private Limited has won the contract of building new Central vista and Parliament building that will have four floors with separate access for President, Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, Rajya Sabha chairperson, Members of Parliament and public. With construction expected to start this month and Parliament session expected next month, the secretariat stated that all measures have been taken after consultations with agencies to ensure there would be no air or noise pollution.

The new building will be equipped with digital interfaces to create a paperless office.Apart from the offices of MPs and ministries, the new building will have a Constitution hall to showcase the original Constitution. The officials inform that big statues that adorn the space between house and entry of Parliament will also get relocated as per the design.&nbsp;

(With ANI inputs)

PM Modi to lay foundation stone for new Parliament building on December 10 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay foundation stone for new Parliament building and will carry out 'Bhoomi Poojan' or ground-breaking ceremony on December 10.

PM Modi to lay foundation stone for new Parliament building on December 10 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay foundation stone for new Parliament building and will carry out 'Bhoomi Poojan' or ground-breaking ceremony on December 10. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla last week took round of the building to assess the site for foundation laying ceremony. "On December 10, the Prime Minister will perform Bhumi Pujan for the new state-of-the-art Parliament building," he told ANI. The construction is due to begin this month. Lok Sabha chamber in the new Parliament building will have seating capacity of 888 against present strength of 543 members. Rajya Sabha will be able to accommodate 384 seats as compared to current strength of 245 members. The maximum capacity for Lok Sabha chamber is expected to be 1272 seats for joint sittings. ecretary-general Utpal Kumar Singh while taking charge of his new office informed that the agencies will try and finish the construction within less than two years so that 75th year of Indian independence can be commemorated in the new Parliament. The proposed built-up area of the new building is estimated to be 64500 square metres. HCP Design, Planning and Management Private Limited has won the contract of building new Central vista and Parliament building that will have four floors with separate access for President, Prime Minister, Lok Sabha Speaker, Rajya Sabha chairperson, Members of Parliament and public. With construction expected to start this month and Parliament session expected next month, the secretariat stated that all measures have been taken after consultations with agencies to ensure there would be no air or noise pollution. The new building will be equipped with digital interfaces to create a paperless office.Apart from the offices of MPs and ministries, the new building will have a Constitution hall to showcase the original Constitution. The officials inform that big statues that adorn the space between house and entry of Parliament will also get relocated as per the design. (With ANI inputs)

PM Modi to lay foundation stone for new Parliament building on December 10

Administrator of Lakshadweep Dineshwar Sharma passed away on Friday at the age of 66 at a Chennai hospital due to a lung-related ailment, Lakshadweep Resident Commissioner Asarpal Singh said.

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of Sharma and recognised his contributions in strengthening the security of the country during his policing career.

"Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma Ji made long-lasting contributions to India`s policing and security apparatus. He handled many sensitive counter-terror and insurgency ops during his policing career. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti," PM Modi tweeted.

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Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma Ji made long lasting contributions to India’s policing and security apparatus. He handled many sensitive counter terror and insurgency ops during his policing career. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1334812703089573888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condoled Sharma`s demise. He tweeted: "Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma ji. He served the nation with utmost devotion as a dedicated officer of the Indian Police Service. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti."

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Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma ji. He served the nation with utmost devotion as a dedicated officer of the Indian Police Service. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1334819433743695872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had on October 23, 2020 appointed former interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma as the Administrator of Lakshadweep.

A 1976-batch retired IPS officer of Kerala cadre, Sharma served as chief of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) from December 31, 2014 to May 2017.

He was appointed as the interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir in 2017 during the first term of the Narendra Modi-led government.

Administrator of Lakshadweep Dineshwar Sharma passed away on Friday at the age of 66 at a Chennai hospital due to a lung-related ailment, Lakshadweep Resident Commissioner Asarpal Singh said.

Administrator of Lakshadweep Dineshwar Sharma passed away on Friday at the age of 66 at a Chennai hospital due to a lung-related ailment, Lakshadweep Resident Commissioner Asarpal Singh said. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of Sharma and recognised his contributions in strengthening the security of the country during his policing career. "Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma Ji made long-lasting contributions to India`s policing and security apparatus. He handled many sensitive counter-terror and insurgency ops during his policing career. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti," PM Modi tweeted. Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma Ji made long lasting contributions to India’s policing and security apparatus. He handled many sensitive counter terror and insurgency ops during his policing career. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family. Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2020 × Union Home Minister Amit Shah also condoled Sharma`s demise. He tweeted: "Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma ji. He served the nation with utmost devotion as a dedicated officer of the Indian Police Service. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti." Deeply anguished to learn about the passing away of Administrator of Lakshadweep Shri Dineshwar Sharma ji. He served the nation with utmost devotion as a dedicated officer of the Indian Police Service. My heartfelt condolences to his family in this hour of grief. Om Shanti. — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 4, 2020 × The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had on October 23, 2020 appointed former interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir Dineshwar Sharma as the Administrator of Lakshadweep. A 1976-batch retired IPS officer of Kerala cadre, Sharma served as chief of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) from December 31, 2014 to May 2017. He was appointed as the interlocutor for Jammu and Kashmir in 2017 during the first term of the Narendra Modi-led government.

Lakshadweep administrator Dineshwar Sharma passes away, PM recalls his contribution to policing

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers.&nbsp;

Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-protests-pm-modi-backs-farm-laws-in-mann-ki-baat-address-346207">Amid protests, PM Modi backs farm laws in Mann Ki Baat address</a>

"The farmers are being misled on these historic agriculture reform laws by the same people who for decades have misled them," referring to the opposition parties in a veiled attack in Varanasi.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-appreciates-scientists-efforts-to-come-out-with-vaccine-solution-to-combat-covid-19-346419">PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19</a>

"These same people have in the past played tricks with farmers in the name of MSP, loan waiver and fertiliser subsidy." 
&nbsp; 
He also asked that since the Indian farmers' products are famous across the world so should not they be allowed to get a bigger market, higher prices to see their produce. &nbsp;

"We will see and experience benefits of these new laws in the coming days," Modi said.&nbsp;

He also said that the new laws will not force farmers to use the new system. &nbsp;

"Earlier, any sale outside Mandi was considered illegal and small farmers were cheated as they were not able to reach Mandi," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

Farmers now are protected by law against cheating and fraud."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers. Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday slammed the opposition over the farmers' protests and underscored that the new farm laws will benefit farmers. Modi's comments came when thousands of farmers are protesting at the national capital over the recently-passed farm laws and are demanding a withdrawal of these acts. Also read | Amid protests, PM Modi backs farm laws in Mann Ki Baat address "The farmers are being misled on these historic agriculture reform laws by the same people who for decades have misled them," referring to the opposition parties in a veiled attack in Varanasi. Also read | PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19 "These same people have in the past played tricks with farmers in the name of MSP, loan waiver and fertiliser subsidy." He also asked that since the Indian farmers' products are famous across the world so should not they be allowed to get a bigger market, higher prices to see their produce. "We will see and experience benefits of these new laws in the coming days," Modi said. He also said that the new laws will not force farmers to use the new system. "Earlier, any sale outside Mandi was considered illegal and small farmers were cheated as they were not able to reach Mandi," the prime minister said. Farmers now are protected by law against cheating and fraud."

PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'

After his visit to three vaccine development centres, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on Monday scheduled to speak to three other teams involved in developing a Covid-19 vaccine. 
 
The PMO, in a tweet, said: "Tomorrow, on 30th November 2020, PM Narendra Modi will interact, via video conferencing, with three teams that are involved in developing a COVID-19 vaccine. The teams he will interact with are from Gennova Biopharma, Biological E and Dr Reddy`s." 
 
The first two are proceeding with developing their own vaccines, while Dr Reddy`s has tied up with Russia to conduct trials of its Sputnik vaccine. 
 
The Prime Minister had visited three cities on Saturday to conduct an extensive review of the vaccine development and manufacturing process, going to the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, the Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad and the Serum Institute of India in Pune. 
 
Expressing pride in the fact that India`s indigenous vaccine development has progressed at such a rapid pace so far, he had stressed that India considers vaccines as not only vital to good health but also as a global good, and it is India`s duty to assist other countries, including the nations in the neighbourhood, in the collective fight against the virus. 
 
Modi asked the scientists to express their free and frank opinion on how the country could further improve its regulatory process. The scientists also presented an overview of how they are also developing various new and repurposed drugs to better fight Covid-19. 
 
After visiting Pune, the Prime Minister had tweeted, "Had a good interaction with the team at Serum Institute of India. They shared details about their progress so far on how they plan to further ramp up vaccine manufacturing. Also took a look at their manufacturing facility." 
 
The Covidshield vaccine is being developed jointly by the Oxford University, AstraZeneca and the SII, which is the world`s largest vaccine manufacturer. 
 
Currently, the SII is producing around 50-60 million doses which would be scaled up to to 100 million by January 2021, SII CEO Adar Poonawalla told the media.

After his visit to three vaccine development centres, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on Monday scheduled to speak to three other teams involved in developing a Covid-19 vaccine.

After his visit to three vaccine development centres, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on Monday scheduled to speak to three other teams involved in developing a Covid-19 vaccine. The PMO, in a tweet, said: "Tomorrow, on 30th November 2020, PM Narendra Modi will interact, via video conferencing, with three teams that are involved in developing a COVID-19 vaccine. The teams he will interact with are from Gennova Biopharma, Biological E and Dr Reddy`s." The first two are proceeding with developing their own vaccines, while Dr Reddy`s has tied up with Russia to conduct trials of its Sputnik vaccine. The Prime Minister had visited three cities on Saturday to conduct an extensive review of the vaccine development and manufacturing process, going to the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, the Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad and the Serum Institute of India in Pune. Expressing pride in the fact that India`s indigenous vaccine development has progressed at such a rapid pace so far, he had stressed that India considers vaccines as not only vital to good health but also as a global good, and it is India`s duty to assist other countries, including the nations in the neighbourhood, in the collective fight against the virus. Modi asked the scientists to express their free and frank opinion on how the country could further improve its regulatory process. The scientists also presented an overview of how they are also developing various new and repurposed drugs to better fight Covid-19. After visiting Pune, the Prime Minister had tweeted, "Had a good interaction with the team at Serum Institute of India. They shared details about their progress so far on how they plan to further ramp up vaccine manufacturing. Also took a look at their manufacturing facility." The Covidshield vaccine is being developed jointly by the Oxford University, AstraZeneca and the SII, which is the world`s largest vaccine manufacturer. Currently, the SII is producing around 50-60 million doses which would be scaled up to to 100 million by January 2021, SII CEO Adar Poonawalla told the media.

PM Modi to interact with more teams of Covid-19 vaccine developers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D. This visit was the first of his three-city tour to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process in the country. Prime Minister Modi will now fly to Hyderabad to visit the Bharat Biotech facility.

During his visit to the Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, PM Modi interacted with the scientists at the Biotech Park and also greeted a crowd which gathered outside the plant.

The prime minister is now scheduled to visit vaccine maker Bharat Biotech`s facility next. Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin is undergoing phase-3 trials.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-vaccine-making-units-in-ahmedabad-hyderabad-and-pune-346004">PM Modi to visit vaccine making units in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune</a>

Biotech has partnered with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for a country-made COVID-19 vaccine using the virus strain isolated by ICMR`s National Institute of Virology (NIV) based in Pune.

Post Bharat Biotech facility visit, PM Modi will head towards the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune. SII has partnered with global pharma giant AstraZeneca and Oxford University for the vaccine.

The SII is the largest producer of vaccines in the world by volume.

"As India enters a decisive phase of the fight against COVID-19, PM Narendra Modi`s visit to these facilities and discussions with the scientists will help him get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges and roadmap in India`s endeavour to vaccinate its citizens," the Prime Minister`s Office had said on Friday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D. This visit was the first of his three-city tour to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process in the country. Prime Minister Modi will now fly to Hyderabad to visit the Bharat Biotech facility. During his visit to the Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, PM Modi interacted with the scientists at the Biotech Park and also greeted a crowd which gathered outside the plant. The prime minister is now scheduled to visit vaccine maker Bharat Biotech`s facility next. Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin is undergoing phase-3 trials. Also read| PM Modi to visit vaccine making units in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune Biotech has partnered with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for a country-made COVID-19 vaccine using the virus strain isolated by ICMR`s National Institute of Virology (NIV) based in Pune. Post Bharat Biotech facility visit, PM Modi will head towards the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune. SII has partnered with global pharma giant AstraZeneca and Oxford University for the vaccine. The SII is the largest producer of vaccines in the world by volume. "As India enters a decisive phase of the fight against COVID-19, PM Narendra Modi`s visit to these facilities and discussions with the scientists will help him get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges and roadmap in India`s endeavour to vaccinate its citizens," the Prime Minister`s Office had said on Friday.

PM Modi concludes Zydus Biotech Park visit, next stop Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad

At least five coronavirus patients were killed in a fire that erupted at the ICU of a Covid-19 hospital in the western Indian city of Rajkot early on Friday.&nbsp;

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said five patients and have lost their lives, while 26 others who were undergoing treatment were rescued and shifted to other hospitals.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-vaccine-tracker-pm-modi-to-visit-serum-institute-of-india-on-november-28-345653">Coronavirus vaccine tracker: PM Modi to visit Serum Institute of India on November 28</a>

He added that the fire broke out midnight at around 12:30 am in the ICU section on the first floor of the four-storey Uday Shivanand Hospital, where about 31 people were hospitalised.&nbsp;

"...it was brought under control within half an hour by the fire brigade. While three coronavirus patients died on the spot, two others succumbed to the injuries while they were being shifted to another hospital," he told reporters as quoted by news agency PTI.&nbsp;

"Nobody else was injured in the incident. Twenty-six other patients, including those who were undergoing treatment on the upper floors, were shifted to other hospitals."&nbsp;

Rajkot Police Commissioner Manoj Agarwal also confirmed the casualties and said that the blazes were brought under control before it could spread to other floors.&nbsp;

Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani ordered a probe into the accident and announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh (USD 5,423.54) to the kin of those who lost their lives.&nbsp;

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CM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/vijayrupanibjp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vijayrupanibjp</a> has expressed grief over the incident of fire at Shivanand COVID Hospital in Rajkot. CM has ordered a probe into the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs.4 lakh each to the family of deceased.
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The deputy CM added that preliminary probe suggested a short circuit in one of the ventilators. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his "pain" for the ones who lost their lives in the fire and said the administration is ensuring all possible assistance to&nbsp;the ones affected.&nbsp;

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Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to a hospital fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. Praying for a quick recovery of the injured. The administration is ensuring all possible assistance to those affected: PM
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"Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to a hospital fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. Praying for a quick recovery of the injured. The administration is ensuring all possible assistance to those affected," the Prime Minister Office said in a tweet. &nbsp;

This is the second major fire accident in a hospital in the state of Gujarat recently.&nbsp;

Earlier, eight coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out at a private hospital in Ahmedabad.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

At least five coronavirus patients were killed in a fire that erupted at the ICU of a Covid-19 hospital in the western Indian city of Rajkot early on Friday. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said five patients and have lost their lives, while 26 others who were undergoing treatment were rescued and shifted to other hospitals.

At least five coronavirus patients were killed in a fire that erupted at the ICU of a Covid-19 hospital in the western Indian city of Rajkot early on Friday. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said five patients and have lost their lives, while 26 others who were undergoing treatment were rescued and shifted to other hospitals. Also read | Coronavirus vaccine tracker: PM Modi to visit Serum Institute of India on November 28 He added that the fire broke out midnight at around 12:30 am in the ICU section on the first floor of the four-storey Uday Shivanand Hospital, where about 31 people were hospitalised. "...it was brought under control within half an hour by the fire brigade. While three coronavirus patients died on the spot, two others succumbed to the injuries while they were being shifted to another hospital," he told reporters as quoted by news agency PTI. "Nobody else was injured in the incident. Twenty-six other patients, including those who were undergoing treatment on the upper floors, were shifted to other hospitals." Rajkot Police Commissioner Manoj Agarwal also confirmed the casualties and said that the blazes were brought under control before it could spread to other floors. Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani ordered a probe into the accident and announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh (USD 5,423.54) to the kin of those who lost their lives. CM Shri @vijayrupanibjp has expressed grief over the incident of fire at Shivanand COVID Hospital in Rajkot. CM has ordered a probe into the incident and announced an ex-gratia of Rs.4 lakh each to the family of deceased. — CMO Gujarat (@CMOGuj) November 27, 2020 × The deputy CM added that preliminary probe suggested a short circuit in one of the ventilators. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his "pain" for the ones who lost their lives in the fire and said the administration is ensuring all possible assistance to the ones affected. Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to a hospital fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. Praying for a quick recovery of the injured. The administration is ensuring all possible assistance to those affected: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 27, 2020 × "Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to a hospital fire in Rajkot. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate tragedy. Praying for a quick recovery of the injured. The administration is ensuring all possible assistance to those affected," the Prime Minister Office said in a tweet. This is the second major fire accident in a hospital in the state of Gujarat recently. Earlier, eight coronavirus patients were killed after a fire broke out at a private hospital in Ahmedabad.

At least five Covid-19 patients killed in Rajkot hospital fire; PM Modi expresses anguish

India is racing ahead with work on its coronavirus vaccine. Serum Institute has said that Oxford COVID-19 vaccine should be available for the general public by April 2021. US President-elect Joe Biden on Thursday accused Donald Trump of brazenly damaging democracy. And on Thursday, a man attacked several people with a knife in Oberhausen, German authorities said, leaving five injured.

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US President-elect Joe Biden on Thursday accused Donald Trump of brazenly damaging democracy as the incumbent pressed on with a campaign to reverse his election loss through fraud claims and personal outreach to election authorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-stabbing-attack-five-injured-in-oberhausen-suspect-arrested-344208">Germany stabbing attack: Five injured in Oberhausen, suspect arrested</a> 
 
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A man attacked several people with a knife in Oberhausen on Thursday evening, German authorities said, leaving five injured. 
 
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India is racing ahead with work on its coronavirus vaccine. Serum Institute has said that Oxford COVID-19 vaccine should be available for the general public by April 2021.

India is racing ahead with work on its coronavirus vaccine. Serum Institute has said that Oxford COVID-19 vaccine should be available for the general public by April 2021. US President-elect Joe Biden on Thursday accused Donald Trump of brazenly damaging democracy. And on Thursday, a man attacked several people with a knife in Oberhausen, German authorities said, leaving five injured. Here are the latest headlines you must not miss: Coronavirus: US continues to battle huge uptick as it sees over 2,200 new deaths The United States in the last 24 hours confirmed more than 2,200 coronavirus deaths, highest ever since May, according to a tally by the Johns Hopkins University tally on Thursday. Oxford COVID-19 vaccine to be available for Indians by April 2021: Serum Institute Chief India is racing ahead with work on its coronavirus vaccine as countries around the world sought to conquer the pandemic and rescue their economies. ‘I am confident he knows he hasn't won’: Joe Biden on Trump US President-elect Joe Biden on Thursday accused Donald Trump of brazenly damaging democracy as the incumbent pressed on with a campaign to reverse his election loss through fraud claims and personal outreach to election authorities. Germany stabbing attack: Five injured in Oberhausen, suspect arrested A man attacked several people with a knife in Oberhausen on Thursday evening, German authorities said, leaving five injured. In pics: Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps unleashes new warship with drones, helicopters onboard

Morning news brief: Covid vaccine by April, Biden criticizes Trump, and more

The first-ever virtual G20 summit that will take place on&nbsp;November 21 and 22 will see COVID-19 crisis dominating the agenda. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be representing India at the meet whose host is Saudi Arabia for this year. The summit is taking place virtually due to the pandemic.&nbsp;

A release by the ministry of external affairs said, "At the invitation of His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will be attending the 15th G20 Summit chaired by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the theme 'Realising the Opportunities of 21st Century for All'&nbsp;on November 21-22, 2020."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-luxembourg-summit-pm-modi-pitches-for-strengthening-relations-344172" hreflang="en">India-Luxembourg summit: PM Modi pitches for strengthening relations</a>

This is the second G20 summit this year, the first took place in March 2020 to take a coordinated approach by the world's top 20 economies to deal with the pandemic.

The MEA release explained, the focus of the upcoming G20 Summit will be on an "inclusive, resilient, and sustainable recovery from the COVID-19" with leaders discussing "pandemic preparedness and the ways and means to restore jobs."

From December 01, India will enter the G20 Troika, along with Saudi Arabia when Italy will take over the Presidency of the G-20. India will host the summit of the grouping in 2022.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-planning-musical-on-south-koreas-indian-queen-344050" hreflang="en">India planning musical on South Korea's Indian Queen</a>

Earlier this week, speaking to WION, India's Sherpa to the G20, Suresh Prabhu said, "We have started the preparation,&nbsp;in full swing. It is led by PM Modi, he is a very hands-on leader of the country and we are already working on very high-tech, very state-of-the-art efficient secretariat in which there will number of ministries participating."

G20 emerged after the 2008 financial crisis and increasingly growing its weightage as the United Nations is seen as dysfunctional due to lack of reforms to reflect the new geopolitical realities.

The first-ever virtual G20 summit that will take place on November 21 and 22 will see COVID-19 crisis dominating the agenda. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be representing India at the meet whose host is Saudi Arabia for this year.

The first-ever virtual G20 summit that will take place on November 21 and 22 will see COVID-19 crisis dominating the agenda. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be representing India at the meet whose host is Saudi Arabia for this year. The summit is taking place virtually due to the pandemic. A release by the ministry of external affairs said, "At the invitation of His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will be attending the 15th G20 Summit chaired by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the theme 'Realising the Opportunities of 21st Century for All' on November 21-22, 2020." Also read| India-Luxembourg summit: PM Modi pitches for strengthening relations This is the second G20 summit this year, the first took place in March 2020 to take a coordinated approach by the world's top 20 economies to deal with the pandemic. The MEA release explained, the focus of the upcoming G20 Summit will be on an "inclusive, resilient, and sustainable recovery from the COVID-19" with leaders discussing "pandemic preparedness and the ways and means to restore jobs." From December 01, India will enter the G20 Troika, along with Saudi Arabia when Italy will take over the Presidency of the G-20. India will host the summit of the grouping in 2022. Also read| India planning musical on South Korea's Indian Queen Earlier this week, speaking to WION, India's Sherpa to the G20, Suresh Prabhu said, "We have started the preparation, in full swing. It is led by PM Modi, he is a very hands-on leader of the country and we are already working on very high-tech, very state-of-the-art efficient secretariat in which there will number of ministries participating." G20 emerged after the 2008 financial crisis and increasingly growing its weightage as the United Nations is seen as dysfunctional due to lack of reforms to reflect the new geopolitical realities.

COVID-19 crisis to dominate G20 summit

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday said that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will rid Jammu and Kashmir of the "corruption of clan".

He said that the Union territory has been moving forward on the path of inclusive development by demolishing the "web of dynasty".

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi led-government has ended the 'corruption of clan' from the corridors of power of Delhi and now it will make Jammu and Kashmir free from 'corruption of clan'," Naqvi, who is the union minister for minority affairs, said at an election meeting in Balahama area of the city here.

He said that secularism is not a "definition of vote politics" for the BJP.

"It is determination for inclusive development. The Modi era is an era of 'Iqbal' (authority), 'Insaaf' (justice) and 'Imaan' (integrity) where inclusive development, security and prosperity of the country are of the utmost priority," he said.

"After several decades, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have become an equal partner in transparent democratic and development processes," he claimed.

Naqvi alleged that the "dynastic politics" had deliberately deprived the people of Jammu and Kashmir of mainstream development process and their constitutional rights.

"Now, the BJP is committed to take the Union Territory forward on the path of prosperity," he added.

Naqvi reiterated his party's allegation that the "Gupkar Alliance" is a conspiracy against the country.

"The alliance is trying to create confusion among the people of Jammu and Kashmir but they will not succeed in their attempt. The people will never accept any such alliance which wants to throw Kashmir back into the quagmire of separatism and terrorism," he said.

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday said that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will rid Jammu and Kashmir of the "corruption of clan".

Senior BJP leader Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Friday said that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will rid Jammu and Kashmir of the "corruption of clan". He said that the Union territory has been moving forward on the path of inclusive development by demolishing the "web of dynasty". "Prime Minister Narendra Modi led-government has ended the 'corruption of clan' from the corridors of power of Delhi and now it will make Jammu and Kashmir free from 'corruption of clan'," Naqvi, who is the union minister for minority affairs, said at an election meeting in Balahama area of the city here. He said that secularism is not a "definition of vote politics" for the BJP. "It is determination for inclusive development. The Modi era is an era of 'Iqbal' (authority), 'Insaaf' (justice) and 'Imaan' (integrity) where inclusive development, security and prosperity of the country are of the utmost priority," he said. "After several decades, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have become an equal partner in transparent democratic and development processes," he claimed. Naqvi alleged that the "dynastic politics" had deliberately deprived the people of Jammu and Kashmir of mainstream development process and their constitutional rights. "Now, the BJP is committed to take the Union Territory forward on the path of prosperity," he added. Naqvi reiterated his party's allegation that the "Gupkar Alliance" is a conspiracy against the country. "The alliance is trying to create confusion among the people of Jammu and Kashmir but they will not succeed in their attempt. The people will never accept any such alliance which wants to throw Kashmir back into the quagmire of separatism and terrorism," he said.

Modi-led govt will rid Jammu and Kashmir of 'corruption of clan': Naqvi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement.

The summit was held through video conferencing. During his address, PM Modi also talked about common values like democracy, rule of law and freedom which have strengthened the bilateral ties.

"There is a huge potential to expand economic engagement between the two countries. We have good cooperation in areas like steel, financial technology, digital domain, but there is a massive possibility of taking it forward," Modi said at the meeting with his Luxembourg counterpart Xavier Bette.

Luxembourg is one of the most important financial centers globally. Several Indian companies have raised capital by issuing Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.

Several Luxembourg-based investment funds hold substantial banking and asset management market share in portfolio investments in India.

In his remarks, Modi also talked about possible cooperation between the two countries in dealing with the economic and health challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

"When the world is fighting the economic and health challenges of the COVID19 pandemic, the partnership between India and Luxemburg can be beneficial for the two countries as well as both the regions," Modi said.

He also welcomed Luxembourg's announcement to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA, initiated by India, is an alliance of over 120 countries which is focused on working for efficient consumption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Modi also invited Luxembourg to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

Luxembourg is a key country in the European Union (EU), and is also the third largest source of FPI in India after US and Mauritius accounting for approximately 8.5 per cent of these investments.

India and Luxembourg have a longstanding cooperation in the steel sector. Luxembourgish company Paul Wurth has been in India for the last two decades and played an important role in upgrading the steel sector in India in collaboration with SAIL, TISCO and Jindal Steel.

ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel-producing company, is based out of Luxembourg and recently entered into a joint-venture in India, partnering with Nippon Steel.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement. The summit was held through video conferencing. During his address, PM Modi also talked about common values like democracy, rule of law and freedom which have strengthened the bilateral ties. "There is a huge potential to expand economic engagement between the two countries. We have good cooperation in areas like steel, financial technology, digital domain, but there is a massive possibility of taking it forward," Modi said at the meeting with his Luxembourg counterpart Xavier Bette. Luxembourg is one of the most important financial centers globally. Several Indian companies have raised capital by issuing Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Several Luxembourg-based investment funds hold substantial banking and asset management market share in portfolio investments in India. In his remarks, Modi also talked about possible cooperation between the two countries in dealing with the economic and health challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. "When the world is fighting the economic and health challenges of the COVID19 pandemic, the partnership between India and Luxemburg can be beneficial for the two countries as well as both the regions," Modi said. He also welcomed Luxembourg's announcement to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA, initiated by India, is an alliance of over 120 countries which is focused on working for efficient consumption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Modi also invited Luxembourg to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Luxembourg is a key country in the European Union (EU), and is also the third largest source of FPI in India after US and Mauritius accounting for approximately 8.5 per cent of these investments. India and Luxembourg have a longstanding cooperation in the steel sector. Luxembourgish company Paul Wurth has been in India for the last two decades and played an important role in upgrading the steel sector in India in collaboration with SAIL, TISCO and Jindal Steel. ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel-producing company, is based out of Luxembourg and recently entered into a joint-venture in India, partnering with Nippon Steel. (With PTI inputs)

India-Luxembourg summit: PM Modi pitches for strengthening relations

In first-ever talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Joe Biden as the President-elect of the United States, the focus was on cooperation on how to deal with the COVID pandemic, its economic impact, and Indo Pacific.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet said, "Spoke to US President-elect @JoeBiden on phone to congratulate him. We reiterated our firm commitment to the Indo-US strategic partnership and discussed our shared priorities and concerns - Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spent-childhood-listening-to-ramayana-and-mahabharata-barack-obama-in-memoir-343642">Also read|&nbsp;Spent childhood listening to Ramayana and Mahabharata: Barack Obama in memoir&nbsp;</a>

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Spoke to US President-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> on phone to congratulate him. We reiterated our firm commitment to the Indo-US strategic partnership and discussed our shared priorities and concerns - Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1328761821302464517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also conveyed congratulations for VP-elect Kamala Harris to Biden saying her, "success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community, who are a tremendous source of strength for Indo-US relations."

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I also conveyed warm congratulations for VP-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>. Her success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community, who are a tremendous source of strength for Indo-US relations.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1328761973140439041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As vice president under Obama's administration,&nbsp;he had engaged with the Indian PM. In fact, he has chaired a Joint Session of the Congress in June 2016 which was addressed by PM Modi.

A readout from Biden-Harris transition team said, president-elect "expressed his desire to strengthen and expand the US-India strategic partnership" alongside the "first vice president of South Asian descent."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-attend-virtual-summit-of-brics-on-tuesday-343512" hreflang="en">Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend virtual summit of BRICS on Tuesday</a>

The readout highlighted key areas in which the Biden administration "looks forward to working closely" with Prime Minister Modi which include "containing COVID-19 and defending against future health crises, tackling the threat of climate change, launching the global economic recovery, strengthening democracy at home and abroad" and "maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region."

On area which both readout mention is Indo-Pacific, a concept that was the key focus of Trump Admin and New Delhi and shows continuity on the issue. The concept, backed by India, the US, and like-minded partners is seen suspiciously by China.

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Biden has been a supporter of close New Delhi-Washington ties, in his capacity as a senator and the vice president. In August 2001, Joe Biden had written a letter to then-President George W. Bush calling on the new administration to drop U.S. sanctions against India and during his tenure as the Chairman of Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he worked towards the U.S. Senate’s approval of US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement in 2008.

In first-ever talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Joe Biden as the President-elect of the United States, the focus was on cooperation on how to deal with the COVID pandemic, its economic impact, and Indo Pacific.

In first-ever talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Joe Biden as the President-elect of the United States, the focus was on cooperation on how to deal with the COVID pandemic, its economic impact, and Indo Pacific. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet said, "Spoke to US President-elect @JoeBiden on phone to congratulate him. We reiterated our firm commitment to the Indo-US strategic partnership and discussed our shared priorities and concerns - Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region." Also read| Spent childhood listening to Ramayana and Mahabharata: Barack Obama in memoir Spoke to US President-elect @JoeBiden on phone to congratulate him. We reiterated our firm commitment to the Indo-US strategic partnership and discussed our shared priorities and concerns - Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2020 × He also conveyed congratulations for VP-elect Kamala Harris to Biden saying her, "success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community, who are a tremendous source of strength for Indo-US relations." I also conveyed warm congratulations for VP-elect @KamalaHarris. Her success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community, who are a tremendous source of strength for Indo-US relations. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2020 × As vice president under Obama's administration, he had engaged with the Indian PM. In fact, he has chaired a Joint Session of the Congress in June 2016 which was addressed by PM Modi. A readout from Biden-Harris transition team said, president-elect "expressed his desire to strengthen and expand the US-India strategic partnership" alongside the "first vice president of South Asian descent." Also read| Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend virtual summit of BRICS on Tuesday The readout highlighted key areas in which the Biden administration "looks forward to working closely" with Prime Minister Modi which include "containing COVID-19 and defending against future health crises, tackling the threat of climate change, launching the global economic recovery, strengthening democracy at home and abroad" and "maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region." On area which both readout mention is Indo-Pacific, a concept that was the key focus of Trump Admin and New Delhi and shows continuity on the issue. The concept, backed by India, the US, and like-minded partners is seen suspiciously by China. × Biden has been a supporter of close New Delhi-Washington ties, in his capacity as a senator and the vice president. In August 2001, Joe Biden had written a letter to then-President George W. Bush calling on the new administration to drop U.S. sanctions against India and during his tenure as the Chairman of Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he worked towards the U.S. Senate’s approval of US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement in 2008.

Modi-Biden speak; discuss cooperation on COVID, Indo-pacific

The US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;has fired the Director of the&nbsp;US Department of Homeland Security Christopher Krebs after he had disputed Trump's claims of electoral fraud and has claimed that the&nbsp;recently-held&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-election">US election 2020</a>&nbsp;were not manipulated. While Trump was firing the top official, his aides in the state of Nevada have asked the court to&nbsp;'halt' President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;win or declare Trump as the winner. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a conversation with the President-elect Joe Biden about COVID-19 response, Indo-pacific talks and more, and also congratulated the Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris, who has Indian roots. While the US is busy in electing a president, the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has decided to ban petrol and diesel cars from 2030 to achieve the aim of 'green Earth'.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-fires-us-election-security-official-who-rejected-fraud-claims-343789" hreflang="en">President Trump fires US election security official who rejected fraud claims</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/11/13/169765-untitled-design-14.jpg?itok=LWTbbzvN" />

The US Department of Homeland Security director Christopher Krebs, who had spearheaded a campaign to counter rumours about voter fraud in 2020 elections, has been fired by President Trump on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-to-ban-petrol-and-diesel-cars-from-2030-343799">UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to ban petrol and diesel cars from 2030</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/05/163160-untitled-design-63.jpg?itok=369vcZop" />

The decision has come as a part of a 10-point plan for a "green industrial revolution", which will be unveiled by the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday, November 18.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-biden-speak-discuss-cooperation-on-covid-indo-pacific-343790">Modi-Biden speak; discuss cooperation on COVID, Indo-pacific</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/11/18/170195-joe-biden-and-narendra-modi.jpg?itok=qYJA-ApX" />

Indian PM&nbsp;also conveyed congratulations for VP-elect Kamala Harris to Biden saying her, "success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community."

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The US President Donald Trump has fired the Director of the US Department of Homeland Security Christopher Krebs after he had disputed Trump's claims of electoral fraud and has claimed that the recently-held US election 2020 were not manipulated.

The US President Donald Trump has fired the Director of the US Department of Homeland Security Christopher Krebs after he had disputed Trump's claims of electoral fraud and has claimed that the recently-held US election 2020 were not manipulated. While Trump was firing the top official, his aides in the state of Nevada have asked the court to 'halt' President-elect Joe Biden's win or declare Trump as the winner. Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a conversation with the President-elect Joe Biden about COVID-19 response, Indo-pacific talks and more, and also congratulated the Vice-President-elect Kamala Harris, who has Indian roots. While the US is busy in electing a president, the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has decided to ban petrol and diesel cars from 2030 to achieve the aim of 'green Earth'. President Trump fires US election security official who rejected fraud claims The US Department of Homeland Security director Christopher Krebs, who had spearheaded a campaign to counter rumours about voter fraud in 2020 elections, has been fired by President Trump on Tuesday. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to ban petrol and diesel cars from 2030 The decision has come as a part of a 10-point plan for a "green industrial revolution", which will be unveiled by the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday, November 18. Modi-Biden speak; discuss cooperation on COVID, Indo-pacific Indian PM also conveyed congratulations for VP-elect Kamala Harris to Biden saying her, "success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community." Gravitas: Ethiopia Tigray conflict × Thailand: 41 people left injured in violent Bangkok protests ×

Morning news brief: Trump fires Christopher Krebs, Biden holds talks with Modi and more

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday exuded confidence that ties between India and the US will expand further under Joe Biden's administration, noting that he was part of the period when bilateral relations underwent a radical transformation.

"As vice president, we dealt with him. I happened to be the ambassador during the last phase of the Obama administration.

"We'd known him earlier when he was in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee as the ranking Democratic member and then as the chairman," Jaishankar said.

The external affairs minister was speaking at an online discussion organised by leading think-tank Gateway House.

"He (Biden) is very much part of this period when Indo-American relations underwent a radical transformation, which I reasonably date back to (Bill) Clinton's visit," Jaishankar said.

Jaishankar said President-elect Biden is "not a stranger" to India or to the relationship between the two countries.

"I am very confident that we will pick up where we left off, we have done that over the last four administrations.

"I think that will be the case as well here and I also say that because within the American politics, it's not just that we deal with the administration of the day, we also tend to deal with the Congress," Jaishankar said.

"American politics by its nature has very strong elements of bipartisanship," he said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday exuded confidence that ties between India and the US will expand further under Joe Biden's administration, noting that he was part of the period when bilateral relations underwent a radical transformation.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday exuded confidence that ties between India and the US will expand further under Joe Biden's administration, noting that he was part of the period when bilateral relations underwent a radical transformation. "As vice president, we dealt with him. I happened to be the ambassador during the last phase of the Obama administration. "We'd known him earlier when he was in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee as the ranking Democratic member and then as the chairman," Jaishankar said. The external affairs minister was speaking at an online discussion organised by leading think-tank Gateway House. "He (Biden) is very much part of this period when Indo-American relations underwent a radical transformation, which I reasonably date back to (Bill) Clinton's visit," Jaishankar said. Jaishankar said President-elect Biden is "not a stranger" to India or to the relationship between the two countries. "I am very confident that we will pick up where we left off, we have done that over the last four administrations. "I think that will be the case as well here and I also say that because within the American politics, it's not just that we deal with the administration of the day, we also tend to deal with the Congress," Jaishankar said. "American politics by its nature has very strong elements of bipartisanship," he said.

We will pick up where we left off: EAM Jaishankar on Indo-US ties under Joe Biden's administration

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a virtual summit of the influential grouping BRICS on Tuesday which will focus on cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy, and ways to offset the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to attend the 12th summit of the Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) grouping.

The BRICS summit is taking place at a time two of the bloc's members, India and China, are locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh for over six months. Both Modi and Xi had come face-to-face virtually at the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on November 10.

"At the invitation of President Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the 12th BRICS Summit hosted by Russia, under the theme 'Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth' on November 17," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

The BRICS is known as an influential bloc that represents over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world's population. The BRICS countries have a combined GDP of USD 16.6 trillion.

The MEA said the leaders would be discussing intra-BRICS cooperation and key issues in the global context, including the reform of the multilateral system, measures to mitigate the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy and people-to-people exchanges.

"India will be taking over the chair of the BRICS, which would be the third BRICS Presidency for India since its inception (after 2012 and 2016) and will host the 13th BRICS summit in 2021," the MEA said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a virtual summit of the influential grouping BRICS on Tuesday which will focus on cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy, and ways to offset the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a virtual summit of the influential grouping BRICS on Tuesday which will focus on cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy, and ways to offset the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to attend the 12th summit of the Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) grouping. The BRICS summit is taking place at a time two of the bloc's members, India and China, are locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh for over six months. Both Modi and Xi had come face-to-face virtually at the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on November 10. "At the invitation of President Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the 12th BRICS Summit hosted by Russia, under the theme 'Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth' on November 17," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. The BRICS is known as an influential bloc that represents over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world's population. The BRICS countries have a combined GDP of USD 16.6 trillion. The MEA said the leaders would be discussing intra-BRICS cooperation and key issues in the global context, including the reform of the multilateral system, measures to mitigate the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, cooperation in counter-terrorism, trade, health, energy and people-to-people exchanges. "India will be taking over the chair of the BRICS, which would be the third BRICS Presidency for India since its inception (after 2012 and 2016) and will host the 13th BRICS summit in 2021," the MEA said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend virtual summit of BRICS on Tuesday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all Indians to pay tribute to Indian soldiers this Diwali. He addressed the nation in a video message that featured soldiers, police officials and health workers. PM thanked them for their service and expressed gratitude for their families. He tweeted his video message.

"This Diwali, let us also light a Diya as a #Salute2Soldiers who fearlessly protect our nation. Words can`t do justice to the sense of gratitude we`ve for our soldiers for their exemplary courage. We`re also grateful to families of those on the borders," read the tweet.

"Friends, we must remember our brave soldiers who are guarding our borders even in this festive time, serving Bharat Mata and providing security. We must celebrate Diwali only after remembering them. We must also light a lamp for these brave sons and daughters of Mother India," the Prime Minister said.&nbsp;

Watch the full address here:

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This Diwali, let us also light a Diya as a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Salute2Soldiers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Salute2Soldiers</a> who fearlessly protect our nation. Words can’t do justice to the sense of gratitude we have for our soldiers for their exemplary courage. We are also grateful to the families of those on the borders. <a href="https://t.co/UAKqPLvKR8">pic.twitter.com/UAKqPLvKR8</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1327225291668852736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Diwali, the festival of lights will be celebrated on November 14 this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all Indians to pay tribute to Indian soldiers this Diwali. He addressed the nation in a video message that featured soldiers, police officials and health workers.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged all Indians to pay tribute to Indian soldiers this Diwali. He addressed the nation in a video message that featured soldiers, police officials and health workers. PM thanked them for their service and expressed gratitude for their families. He tweeted his video message. "This Diwali, let us also light a Diya as a #Salute2Soldiers who fearlessly protect our nation. Words can`t do justice to the sense of gratitude we`ve for our soldiers for their exemplary courage. We`re also grateful to families of those on the borders," read the tweet. "Friends, we must remember our brave soldiers who are guarding our borders even in this festive time, serving Bharat Mata and providing security. We must celebrate Diwali only after remembering them. We must also light a lamp for these brave sons and daughters of Mother India," the Prime Minister said. Watch the full address here: This Diwali, let us also light a Diya as a #Salute2Soldiers who fearlessly protect our nation. Words can’t do justice to the sense of gratitude we have for our soldiers for their exemplary courage. We are also grateful to the families of those on the borders. pic.twitter.com/UAKqPLvKR8 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 13, 2020 × Diwali, the festival of lights will be celebrated on November 14 this year.

Light a Diya for our brave soldiers, says PM Modi in his Diwali message

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus on Thursday, via video conferencing.

Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote: "At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion. The programme will be held via video conferencing. I look forward to the programme this evening."

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At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion. The programme will be held via video conferencing. I look forward to the programme this evening.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1326735652554231808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A statement released by the University earlier read that Prime Minister Modi will through video conferencing unveil the life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda installed on the University campus on November 12, at 6:30 pm.

The unveiling of the statue will be preceded by a programme on Swami Vivekananda from 5:30 pm onwards.

"Swami Vivekananda is one of the most beloved intellectuals and spiritual leaders India has been fortunate to produce. He enthused the youth with his message of freedom, development, harmony and peace in India. He inspired citizens to take pride in Indian civilisation, culture and its industrious spirit," the JNU Vice-Chancellor said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus on Thursday, via video conferencing. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote: "At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus on Thursday, via video conferencing. Taking to Twitter, PM Modi wrote: "At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion. The programme will be held via video conferencing. I look forward to the programme this evening." At 6:30 this evening, will unveil a statue of Swami Vivekananda at the JNU campus and share my thoughts on the occasion. The programme will be held via video conferencing. I look forward to the programme this evening. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 12, 2020 × A statement released by the University earlier read that Prime Minister Modi will through video conferencing unveil the life-size statue of Swami Vivekananda installed on the University campus on November 12, at 6:30 pm. The unveiling of the statue will be preceded by a programme on Swami Vivekananda from 5:30 pm onwards. "Swami Vivekananda is one of the most beloved intellectuals and spiritual leaders India has been fortunate to produce. He enthused the youth with his message of freedom, development, harmony and peace in India. He inspired citizens to take pride in Indian civilisation, culture and its industrious spirit," the JNU Vice-Chancellor said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Swami Vivekananda at JNU: PM Narendra Modi to unveil life-size statue via video conferencing

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