In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions. It is not influenced by political or commercial considerations."

Highlighting how "India’s approach to development is mainly human-centric", PM said, "History has taught us that in the name of development partnerships, nations were forced into dependence partnerships.&nbsp;It gave rise to colonial and imperial rule. It gave rise to global power blocks. And, Humanity suffered. "

Chinese "debt trap" programmes have been impacting countries, especially small countries with projects at inflated prices.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bans-47-chinese-apps-that-were-clones-of-the-59-apps-banned-in-june-316190">Also read:&nbsp;India bans 47 Chinese apps that were clones of the 59 apps banned in June</a>

He was speaking at a virtual event along with Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth during the inauguration of the new Supreme Court Building in Mauritius. The Mauritius Supreme Court Building has been built by India at the cost of $30 million under India's grant assistance.

Quoting Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of "service of humanity", PM said, "India is making development partnerships that are marked by respect, diversity, care for the future, and sustainable development. For India, the most fundamental principle in development cooperation is respecting our partners. This sharing of development lessons is our only motivation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/names-of-soldiers-killed-in-galwan-clash-to-be-inscribed-on-national-war-memorial-316987">Also read:&nbsp;Names of soldiers killed in Galwan clash to be inscribed on National War Memorial</a>

Giving examples of New Delhi's infrastructure development and capacity building in the region, he pointed out how India helped build Parliament building in Afghanistan, Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in Niger, housing project and emergency ambulance services in Sri Lanka, drinking water and sanitation in thirty-four islands of the Maldives, emergency and trauma hospital in Nepal and "oil pipeline project we are doing with Nepal will help ensure the availability of petroleum products".

He also elaborated on India's cricket diplomacy in the region by making "cricket popular in countries as diverse as Afghanistan and Guyana by helping build stadiums and other facilities."

He said, "We are excited to see the young Afghan cricket team trained in India emerge as a force to reckon with" and "We are now providing similar support to develop the talent of the Maldives cricket players."

In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions.

In what seems to a veiled message on Chinese development cooperation India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said New Delhi's "development cooperation does not come with any conditions. It is not influenced by political or commercial considerations." Highlighting how "India’s approach to development is mainly human-centric", PM said, "History has taught us that in the name of development partnerships, nations were forced into dependence partnerships. It gave rise to colonial and imperial rule. It gave rise to global power blocks. And, Humanity suffered. " Chinese "debt trap" programmes have been impacting countries, especially small countries with projects at inflated prices. Also read: India bans 47 Chinese apps that were clones of the 59 apps banned in June He was speaking at a virtual event along with Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth during the inauguration of the new Supreme Court Building in Mauritius. The Mauritius Supreme Court Building has been built by India at the cost of $30 million under India's grant assistance. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of "service of humanity", PM said, "India is making development partnerships that are marked by respect, diversity, care for the future, and sustainable development. For India, the most fundamental principle in development cooperation is respecting our partners. This sharing of development lessons is our only motivation." Also read: Names of soldiers killed in Galwan clash to be inscribed on National War Memorial Giving examples of New Delhi's infrastructure development and capacity building in the region, he pointed out how India helped build Parliament building in Afghanistan, Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in Niger, housing project and emergency ambulance services in Sri Lanka, drinking water and sanitation in thirty-four islands of the Maldives, emergency and trauma hospital in Nepal and "oil pipeline project we are doing with Nepal will help ensure the availability of petroleum products". He also elaborated on India's cricket diplomacy in the region by making "cricket popular in countries as diverse as Afghanistan and Guyana by helping build stadiums and other facilities." He said, "We are excited to see the young Afghan cricket team trained in India emerge as a force to reckon with" and "We are now providing similar support to develop the talent of the Maldives cricket players."

In veiled message on China, PM Modi says New Delhi's development partnership does not come with conditions

There is no virtue like protecting the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday as welcomed the first batch of five Rafale jets which landed in Ambala with a tweet in Sanskrit.

There is no virtue like protecting the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday as welcomed the first batch of five Rafale jets which landed in Ambala with a tweet in Sanskrit. Also read | First look: Rafale fighter jets receive 'water salute' at Indian Air Force base in Ambala He also shared a brief video of a Rafale fighter aircraft landing at the Ambala Air Force station. Wath | First batch of Rafale fighter jets land at Ambala air station × राष्ट्ररक्षासमं पुण्यं, राष्ट्ररक्षासमं व्रतम्, राष्ट्ररक्षासमं यज्ञो, दृष्टो नैव च नैव च।। नभः स्पृशं दीप्तम्... स्वागतम्! #RafaleInIndia pic.twitter.com/lSrNoJYqZO — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 29, 2020 × Broadly translated, the prime minister said in his tweet that there is no virtue like protecting the nation, there is no vow like defence of the nation. Also read: Rafale jets land in India, will join IAF's 'Golden Arrows' squadron "Swagatam" (welcome), he said with the hash tag "RafaleInIndia". The Rafales were escorted by two Sukhoi 30 MKIs after they entered the Indian air space and were given a water salute when they landed in Ambala.

PM Modi tweets in Sanskrit to welcome Rafale jets, says no virtue like protecting nation

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a "high-tech, state of the art" coronavirus facility for three states across the country in an attempt to increase testing.

"The high-tech, state of the art coronavirus facility that is launched today will give more strength to West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh in the fight against coronavirus," the prime minister said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abducted-sikh-among-other-afghan-citizens-reach-delhi-thank-modi-government-316110#:~:text=expeditiously%20processed%20visas.-,Around%20700%20Afghan%20Sikhs%20and%20Hindus%20have%20registered%20at%20the,to%20come%20and%20beat%20me.&amp;text=India%20is%20a%20great%20country.">Abducted Sikh among other Afghan citizens reach Delhi, thank Modi government</a>

Highlighting that Delhi NCR, Mumbai and Kolkata are big centres of economic activities too, PM Modi said now in these cities coronavirus tests will be faster.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-mann-ki-baat-address-pm-modi-touches-upon-kargil-war-coronavirus-floods-316064">In Mann Ki Baat address, PM Modi touches upon Kargil War, coronavirus, floods</a>

He also said that these labs will also be used to test diseases like hepatitis-b/c, HIV, and dengue.&nbsp;

The prime minister also said that India "took right steps at the right time" and that is why the nation is far better position against the deadly virus as compared to other big countries.&nbsp;

"During coronavirus pandemic, everybody in the nation has one resolution and that is to save each and every Indian. This resolution has given surprising results," PM Modi said.

"Especially what India achieved in things such as PPE, masks and testing kits a very big success story."

PM Modi also said the number of fatalities in India is far less than other big countries and recovery rate is better than those nations.&nbsp;

Stressing that more than 500,000 tests are happening in the country daily, PM Modi said that they are aiming to test 1 million people every day.&nbsp;

"During one time, PPE kits were not manufactured in India, now we have become the second-largest producer of PPE kits," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

He said that there was a time when the country used to import ventilators, but now it has a capacity to produce 300,000 ventilators each year.&nbsp;

PM Modi further said another challenge for the country was to prepare human resources and for that he praised ASHA, Anganwadi, paramedical staff and called their efforts "incredible".

"Today, if the world is surprised with India's response to the coronavirus, big doubts are getting wrong, then, one huge reason is our foot soldiers too," he said.&nbsp;

He also warned the nation of the spread of virus during the upcoming festivals and urged countrymen to take precautions.&nbsp;

"We have reached a positon, when awarenss is not limited, resources are increasing, now we have to ensure that at state, rural, and bloc level, demand and supply are strengthened", he added.

"We have to do this so that in villages, the fight against COVID-19 doesn't get weakened."&nbsp; 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a "high-tech, state of the art" coronavirus facility for three states across the country in an attempt to increase testing.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a "high-tech, state of the art" coronavirus facility for three states across the country in an attempt to increase testing. "The high-tech, state of the art coronavirus facility that is launched today will give more strength to West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh in the fight against coronavirus," the prime minister said. Also read | Abducted Sikh among other Afghan citizens reach Delhi, thank Modi government Highlighting that Delhi NCR, Mumbai and Kolkata are big centres of economic activities too, PM Modi said now in these cities coronavirus tests will be faster. Also read | In Mann Ki Baat address, PM Modi touches upon Kargil War, coronavirus, floods He also said that these labs will also be used to test diseases like hepatitis-b/c, HIV, and dengue. The prime minister also said that India "took right steps at the right time" and that is why the nation is far better position against the deadly virus as compared to other big countries. "During coronavirus pandemic, everybody in the nation has one resolution and that is to save each and every Indian. This resolution has given surprising results," PM Modi said. "Especially what India achieved in things such as PPE, masks and testing kits a very big success story." PM Modi also said the number of fatalities in India is far less than other big countries and recovery rate is better than those nations. Stressing that more than 500,000 tests are happening in the country daily, PM Modi said that they are aiming to test 1 million people every day. "During one time, PPE kits were not manufactured in India, now we have become the second-largest producer of PPE kits," the prime minister said. He said that there was a time when the country used to import ventilators, but now it has a capacity to produce 300,000 ventilators each year. PM Modi further said another challenge for the country was to prepare human resources and for that he praised ASHA, Anganwadi, paramedical staff and called their efforts "incredible". "Today, if the world is surprised with India's response to the coronavirus, big doubts are getting wrong, then, one huge reason is our foot soldiers too," he said. He also warned the nation of the spread of virus during the upcoming festivals and urged countrymen to take precautions. "We have reached a positon, when awarenss is not limited, resources are increasing, now we have to ensure that at state, rural, and bloc level, demand and supply are strengthened", he added. "We have to do this so that in villages, the fight against COVID-19 doesn't get weakened."

PM Narendra Modi launches 'state of the art' coronavirus facility

It’s a phone call that the modest family, from Tamil Nadu’s Namakkal district describes as a surprise of a lifetime. When their daughter Kaniga scored 490/500 in her class XII exams, it a was indeed a wonderful feeling for the family, but never did they expect a call from the Indian Prime Minister Narendra himself, whose conversation with the student was featured on his monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

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Youngsters like Kaniga and her sister personify the spirit of New India, where success is not merely determined by the family one is born in, the school/ college one studied, the big city one lives in. 
 
Hardwork and perseverance gives results. India is changing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> <a href="https://t.co/orEEFzPdfA">pic.twitter.com/orEEFzPdfA</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1287328311748616192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Kaniga who is currently preparing for her NEET (Medical entrance examination) says that it was a sudden phone call, during which the officials did a sound check and thereafter transferred it to the Prime Minister. “It happened all of a sudden and we didn’t know anything about it, nothing less than a complete surprise. The Prime Minister was very friendly and made me feel at ease. He spoke in an encouraging tone and this call has motivated me to work harder and secure admission into a reputed institution for my MBBS” she told WION.&nbsp;

Aspiring to be a Neurosurgeon, Kaniga is from a very humble family, with no background in professional streams, but is the second child in the family to choose the medical stream. Her elder sister Shivani is currently pursuing her MBBS at a college in Trichy. Their father is a heavy vehicles driver and usually drives trucks carrying hazardous petrochemical products and their mother is a homemaker.

Kaniga aspires to secure a top rank in NEET and complete her MBBS from Chennai’s Madras Medical College or the Armed Forces Medical College following which she would specialize in Neurosurgery.&nbsp;

Speaking of her parents, Kaniga is all praise for their love, affection and care. “Our father always wished that both of us must become doctors and encouraged we, our mother would always sit with us while studying and never scolded us. She was constantly helping us in ensuring that we put in maximum efforts and did our best” Kaniga says.&nbsp;

For the high score, she thanks her faculty who guided her correctly and also conducted daily and weekly tests. Having prepared for NEET and CBSE board exams seems to have made the task easier for Kaniga. “I worked hard the entire year and revised towards the end. Initially there were some challenges and tough lessons, but towards the end I was quite well versed. My friends and faculty were of great help in this journey”, she adds.&nbsp;

Her father Nataraj is overwhelmed by the congratulatory calls and messages from people around. He hopes that his daughter will be able to do very well in the NEET exam and secure a seat under the government quota, which would be financially manageable for the family. He adds that the last few months have been quite tough for him with work being scant, but his daughters’ achievements are what make him feel proud.&nbsp;

Following the mention on Mann Ki Baat, the BJP Youth wing members met the family, felicitated the student and assured their family of their support.

It’s a phone call that the modest family, from Tamil Nadu’s Namakkal district describes as a surprise of a lifetime. When their daughter Kaniga scored 490/500 in her class XII exams, it a was indeed a wonderful feeling for the family, but never did they expect a call from the Indian Prime Minister Narendra himself, whose conversation with the student was featured on his monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

It’s a phone call that the modest family, from Tamil Nadu’s Namakkal district describes as a surprise of a lifetime. When their daughter Kaniga scored 490/500 in her class XII exams, it a was indeed a wonderful feeling for the family, but never did they expect a call from the Indian Prime Minister Narendra himself, whose conversation with the student was featured on his monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Youngsters like Kaniga and her sister personify the spirit of New India, where success is not merely determined by the family one is born in, the school/ college one studied, the big city one lives in. Hardwork and perseverance gives results. India is changing. #MannKiBaat pic.twitter.com/orEEFzPdfA — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2020 × Kaniga who is currently preparing for her NEET (Medical entrance examination) says that it was a sudden phone call, during which the officials did a sound check and thereafter transferred it to the Prime Minister. “It happened all of a sudden and we didn’t know anything about it, nothing less than a complete surprise. The Prime Minister was very friendly and made me feel at ease. He spoke in an encouraging tone and this call has motivated me to work harder and secure admission into a reputed institution for my MBBS” she told WION. Aspiring to be a Neurosurgeon, Kaniga is from a very humble family, with no background in professional streams, but is the second child in the family to choose the medical stream. Her elder sister Shivani is currently pursuing her MBBS at a college in Trichy. Their father is a heavy vehicles driver and usually drives trucks carrying hazardous petrochemical products and their mother is a homemaker. Kaniga aspires to secure a top rank in NEET and complete her MBBS from Chennai’s Madras Medical College or the Armed Forces Medical College following which she would specialize in Neurosurgery. Speaking of her parents, Kaniga is all praise for their love, affection and care. “Our father always wished that both of us must become doctors and encouraged we, our mother would always sit with us while studying and never scolded us. She was constantly helping us in ensuring that we put in maximum efforts and did our best” Kaniga says. For the high score, she thanks her faculty who guided her correctly and also conducted daily and weekly tests. Having prepared for NEET and CBSE board exams seems to have made the task easier for Kaniga. “I worked hard the entire year and revised towards the end. Initially there were some challenges and tough lessons, but towards the end I was quite well versed. My friends and faculty were of great help in this journey”, she adds. Her father Nataraj is overwhelmed by the congratulatory calls and messages from people around. He hopes that his daughter will be able to do very well in the NEET exam and secure a seat under the government quota, which would be financially manageable for the family. He adds that the last few months have been quite tough for him with work being scant, but his daughters’ achievements are what make him feel proud. Following the mention on Mann Ki Baat, the BJP Youth wing members met the family, felicitated the student and assured their family of their support.

Surprise of a lifetime, says family after high-achiever daughter featured on Man Ki Baat

11 Afghan Sikhs including abducted Delhi based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh, will reach Delhi on Sunday. The remaining 10 are family members of the Afghan Sikhs who were killed in Kabul Gurudwara terror attack earlier this year.

11 Afghan Sikhs including abducted Delhi based Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh, will reach Delhi on Sunday. The remaining 10 are family members of the Afghan Sikhs who were killed in Kabul Gurudwara terror attack earlier this year. More than 25 Afghan Sikhs and One Indian Sikh were killed on the March 25th Gurudwara terror attack in Kabul. Hopes are high among the 11 Sikhs who are hopeful of being granted Indian citizenship. Charan Singh, the brother in law of Nidan Singh who is in Delhi told WION, "I am hopeful on citizenship front." Indian government earlier this month said that it will give Afghan Hindus and Sikhs visas and examine Indian citizenship requests. The spokesperson of India's Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Shrivastava, in response to a WION question at the weekly presser last week said that Indian government has been receiving requests from these communities that "they want to move to India and settle down here" and despite the COVID-19 pandemic, "we are facilitating the requests". Indian mission in Kabul is "providing them necessary visas" to come to India and once they reach here the request for citizenship will be "examined and acted upon" based on "rules and policies", he explained. While no details have been given on the rules, India could give citizenship to these Afghan minorities under the citizenship amendment law passed last year. India's announcement on visa facilitation and citizenship is being lauded globally. Karanjee Gaba, a London based Afghan Sikh currently working as a model told WION, "I am glad that India has taken the initiative to step up and help the Afghan Sikhs and Hindus, by giving them a place in their nation to help them out, as sudden attacks on the minority is a massive action by the Taliban and they need the support." A US congressman, Jim Costa in response to India's offer to help Afghan minorities said, "This marks an important step toward protecting Afghanistan’s Sikh and Hindu communities from imminent destruction at the hands of terrorists." Delhi sees the "recent spurt of attacks on Hindus and Sikh community" in Afghanistan by "terrorists at the behest of external supporters", indicating Pakistan's involvement. The wife of kidnapped Afghan Sikh Nidan Singh, who was kidnapped from Gurdwara Tala Sahib, Chamkani in Afghanistan, had written to Indian Prime Minister Modi requesting for assistance from Indian government for the release of her husband and also grant citizenship. Mahrwanti wrote to PM on 25th June saying, "I request you to kindly repatriate him back to New Delhi immediately after his release and grant us Indian citizenship at the earliest". Singh and his family of six __ wife, 2 sons and 3 daughters -- had moved to India in 1992 due to civil unrest in Afghanistan and have been staying in New Delhi as refugees.

First batch of 'facilitated' Afghan Sikhs to reach India on Sunday, optimistic about citizenship

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the world requires a better future&nbsp;and&nbsp;''it is all of us who have to collectively give shape to the future. I firmly believe that our approach to the future must primarily be a more human-centric one.''&nbsp;

PM Modi was delivering the keynote address at India Ideas Summit hosted by US-India Business Council (USIBC), via video conferencing.

Global economic resilience can be achieved by stronger domestic economic capacities, he said and added, ''This means improved domestic capacity for manufacturing, restoring the health of the financial system and diversification of international trade.''

India was contributing towards a prosperous and resilient world through the clarion call of an Atmanirbhar Bharat, he said.

''During the last six years, we have made many efforts to make our economy more open and reform-oriented. Reforms have ensured increased ‘competitiveness’, enhanced ‘transparency’, expanded ‘digitization’, greater ‘Innovation’ and more ‘Policy stability’,'' Modi noted.

Calling India as a land of opportunities, Modi quoting a recent report said that there are more rural internet users than even urban internet users.

''Today, there is global optimism&nbsp;towards India. This is because India offers a perfect combination of openness, opportunities &amp; technologies,'' he said.

Modi invited other countries to invest in healthcare.&nbsp;

''The Healthcare sector in India is growing faster than 22 per cent every year. Our companies are also progressing in production of medical-technology, telemedicine and diagnostics,'' he said.

Civil Aviation is another area of great potential growth, he said.&nbsp;

The number of air passengers is expected to more than double within the next 8 years. The top private Indian airlines plan to include over a thousand new aircraft over the coming decade.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the world requires a better future and ''it is all of us who have to collectively give shape to the future.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the world requires a better future and ''it is all of us who have to collectively give shape to the future. I firmly believe that our approach to the future must primarily be a more human-centric one.'' PM Modi was delivering the keynote address at India Ideas Summit hosted by US-India Business Council (USIBC), via video conferencing. Global economic resilience can be achieved by stronger domestic economic capacities, he said and added, ''This means improved domestic capacity for manufacturing, restoring the health of the financial system and diversification of international trade.'' India was contributing towards a prosperous and resilient world through the clarion call of an Atmanirbhar Bharat, he said. ''During the last six years, we have made many efforts to make our economy more open and reform-oriented. Reforms have ensured increased ‘competitiveness’, enhanced ‘transparency’, expanded ‘digitization’, greater ‘Innovation’ and more ‘Policy stability’,'' Modi noted. Calling India as a land of opportunities, Modi quoting a recent report said that there are more rural internet users than even urban internet users. ''Today, there is global optimism towards India. This is because India offers a perfect combination of openness, opportunities & technologies,'' he said. Modi invited other countries to invest in healthcare. ''The Healthcare sector in India is growing faster than 22 per cent every year. Our companies are also progressing in production of medical-technology, telemedicine and diagnostics,'' he said. Civil Aviation is another area of great potential growth, he said. The number of air passengers is expected to more than double within the next 8 years. The top private Indian airlines plan to include over a thousand new aircraft over the coming decade.

India offers perfect combination of openness & opportunities: PM Modi at India Ideas Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the keynote address at the India Ideas Summit today, PMO said.

The two-day Summit which began yesterday is being hosted by the US-India Business Council.&nbsp;

"This year marks the 45th anniversary of the formation of the Council. The theme for this year's India Ideas Summit is 'Building a Better Future'," a statement from the PMO said.

"Other key speakers at the summit include Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, Senator of Virginia and co-chair of Senate India Caucus Mark Warner, Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, among others. The Summit will witness discussions on areas including India-US cooperation and future of the relation between the two counties in a post-pandemic world," stated the PMO.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the keynote address at the India Ideas Summit today, PMO said. The two-day Summit which began yesterday is being hosted by the US-India Business Council.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the keynote address at the India Ideas Summit today, PMO said. The two-day Summit which began yesterday is being hosted by the US-India Business Council. "This year marks the 45th anniversary of the formation of the Council. The theme for this year's India Ideas Summit is 'Building a Better Future'," a statement from the PMO said. "Other key speakers at the summit include Minister of External Affairs Dr S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, Senator of Virginia and co-chair of Senate India Caucus Mark Warner, Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, among others. The Summit will witness discussions on areas including India-US cooperation and future of the relation between the two counties in a post-pandemic world," stated the PMO.

PM Modi to deliver keynote address at India Ideas Summit today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke with the chief ministers of seven states over phone regarding "situation" in their states.

These Chief Ministers are Nitish Kumar (Bihar), Sarbananda Sonowal (Assam), Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy (Andhra Pradesh), K. Chandrasekhar Rao (Telangana), O. Pareerselvam (Tamil Nadu), Jai Ram Thakur (Himachal Pradesh) and Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand).

The Prime Minister, it`s believed, discussed about coronavirus and its handling, flood situation and other issues with them. He talked about state-specific concerns with them, according to sources.

As of today, India has 3,73,379 active Covid-19 cases. Tamil Nadu is one of the key states where Covid-19 is spreading rapidly.

While Assam has been inundated by rivers, Bihar is facing flooding. 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke with the chief ministers of seven states over phone regarding "situation" in their states. These Chief Ministers are Nitish Kumar (Bihar), Sarbananda Sonowal (Assam), Y.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke with the chief ministers of seven states over phone regarding "situation" in their states. These Chief Ministers are Nitish Kumar (Bihar), Sarbananda Sonowal (Assam), Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy (Andhra Pradesh), K. Chandrasekhar Rao (Telangana), O. Pareerselvam (Tamil Nadu), Jai Ram Thakur (Himachal Pradesh) and Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand). The Prime Minister, it`s believed, discussed about coronavirus and its handling, flood situation and other issues with them. He talked about state-specific concerns with them, according to sources. As of today, India has 3,73,379 active Covid-19 cases. Tamil Nadu is one of the key states where Covid-19 is spreading rapidly. While Assam has been inundated by rivers, Bihar is facing flooding.

COVID-19: PM dials 7 chief ministers to know 'situation' in their states

Highlighting the initiatives taken by the government towards the path of development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the country has not forgotten its "responsibility" towards this planet.&nbsp;

"While marching forward on the path of development, we are not forgetting our responsibility towards our planet," PM Modi said in a virtual address to the High-Level Segment of UN's Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-eu-partnership-is-significant-for-peace-and-stability-of-world-pm-modi-313477">India-EU partnership is significant for peace and stability of world: PM Modi</a>

"Over the past few years, we have reduced 38 millon tonnes of carbon emisssions annually," adding that electrification of villages, providing clean fuels to poor households and energy efficiency initiatives helped the country in achieving this.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-shares-details-of-conversation-with-sundar-pichai-313008">PM Narendra Modi shares details of conversation with Sundar Pichai</a>

He lauded India's initiative to set up International Solar Alliance and called it a "practical manifestation of climate action".&nbsp;

The Indian prime minister also lauded his government's Ayushman&nbsp;Bharat scheme, world's largest health protection programme.&nbsp;

"In the fight against COVID, our grassroots health systems is helping India ensure one of the best recovery rates in the world," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

Highlighting the initiatives taken by the government towards the path of development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the country has not forgotten its "responsibility" towards this planet.

Highlighting the initiatives taken by the government towards the path of development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the country has not forgotten its "responsibility" towards this planet. "While marching forward on the path of development, we are not forgetting our responsibility towards our planet," PM Modi said in a virtual address to the High-Level Segment of UN's Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Also read | India-EU partnership is significant for peace and stability of world: PM Modi "Over the past few years, we have reduced 38 millon tonnes of carbon emisssions annually," adding that electrification of villages, providing clean fuels to poor households and energy efficiency initiatives helped the country in achieving this. Also read | PM Narendra Modi shares details of conversation with Sundar Pichai He lauded India's initiative to set up International Solar Alliance and called it a "practical manifestation of climate action". The Indian prime minister also lauded his government's Ayushman Bharat scheme, world's largest health protection programme. "In the fight against COVID, our grassroots health systems is helping India ensure one of the best recovery rates in the world," PM Modi said.

India not forgotten 'responsibility' towards our planet: PM Modi at UN ECOSOC

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West".&nbsp;Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one&nbsp;but&nbsp;Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace.

The United States of America made it happen. It slapped crippling sanctions on Iran and bullied allies to keep distance from Tehran and&nbsp;India was one of the countries that complied.

Last year, when the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a visit to India, he had a clear message on Iran while sitting right next to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Pompeo said: "We also know that Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, and we know the Indian people, how they have suffered from terror around the world."

That statement was a sign of things to come.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-us-policy-soured-india-iran-ties-313865/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Donald Trump's&nbsp;administration is on a collision course with Iran. Trump walked out of the nuclear deal, slapped sanctions on Tehran and swept allies into confrontation, whether they liked it or not.

India was one of them,&nbsp;it chose to side with the US and stopped buying oil from Iran,&nbsp;and put its investment in the Chabahar project in cold storage. India chose to comply with American sanctions.

Close ties with America is a priority for the Modi government. Prime Minister Modi has invested personal political capital in the&nbsp;relationship. First with the 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston — an event that was attended by 50,000 people. Trump used the opportunity to attract more Indian-Americans to his corner.

A few months later, the US President repeated this pitch in Ahmedabad. He received a king's welcome in Modi's home state. Trump was greeted by locals in a 22-kilometer roadshow and thrown a grand reception at the world's largest cricket stadium.

However, New Delhi's list of complaints with Washington is growing. The biggest pinch that India has felt after siding with the US is on its oil bills. India is the world's third-biggest oil consumer. India imports almost 80 per cent of its oil requirements&nbsp;and Iran was the third-largest supplier&nbsp;mainly because of the easy transaction terms.

Iran reportedly used to offer India a longer credit period of 60 days and the cargo insurance was free but&nbsp;American sanctions have forced India to buy from other West Asian nations.&nbsp;Other bilateral issues with the US have also been hurting India. The US terminated the preferential trade status for India — a move that led to duties on exports of nearly two thousand Indian products.

Trump’s tone and tenor hasn’t helped the relationship. In April, the US&nbsp;President had warned of retaliation over the curbs on exports of hydroxychloroquine.

Trump’s tough stand has driven Tehran towards Beijing. China and Iran are on the cusp of signing a $400 billion strategic partnership.

America gets its way and&nbsp;China gets a new partner&nbsp;but&nbsp;India has lost a strategic ally and an oil supplier. Delhi's policy of strategic autonomy is yet to show in the case of Iran.

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West". Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one but Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace.

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West". Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one but Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace. The United States of America made it happen. It slapped crippling sanctions on Iran and bullied allies to keep distance from Tehran and India was one of the countries that complied. Last year, when the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a visit to India, he had a clear message on Iran while sitting right next to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Pompeo said: "We also know that Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, and we know the Indian people, how they have suffered from terror around the world." That statement was a sign of things to come. Donald Trump's administration is on a collision course with Iran. Trump walked out of the nuclear deal, slapped sanctions on Tehran and swept allies into confrontation, whether they liked it or not. India was one of them, it chose to side with the US and stopped buying oil from Iran, and put its investment in the Chabahar project in cold storage. India chose to comply with American sanctions. Close ties with America is a priority for the Modi government. Prime Minister Modi has invested personal political capital in the relationship. First with the 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston — an event that was attended by 50,000 people. Trump used the opportunity to attract more Indian-Americans to his corner. A few months later, the US President repeated this pitch in Ahmedabad. He received a king's welcome in Modi's home state. Trump was greeted by locals in a 22-kilometer roadshow and thrown a grand reception at the world's largest cricket stadium. However, New Delhi's list of complaints with Washington is growing. The biggest pinch that India has felt after siding with the US is on its oil bills. India is the world's third-biggest oil consumer. India imports almost 80 per cent of its oil requirements and Iran was the third-largest supplier mainly because of the easy transaction terms. Iran reportedly used to offer India a longer credit period of 60 days and the cargo insurance was free but American sanctions have forced India to buy from other West Asian nations. Other bilateral issues with the US have also been hurting India. The US terminated the preferential trade status for India — a move that led to duties on exports of nearly two thousand Indian products. Trump’s tone and tenor hasn’t helped the relationship. In April, the US President had warned of retaliation over the curbs on exports of hydroxychloroquine. Trump’s tough stand has driven Tehran towards Beijing. China and Iran are on the cusp of signing a $400 billion strategic partnership. America gets its way and China gets a new partner but India has lost a strategic ally and an oil supplier. Delhi's policy of strategic autonomy is yet to show in the case of Iran.

India suffers as Trump's tough line allows Iran to embrace China

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a five-minute video address on the occasion of World Youth Skills Day on Wednesday.

The day also marks the fifth anniversary of the launch of the Skill India Mission which was introduced&nbsp;in 2015.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-buy-israeli-heron-surveillance-drone-spike-anti-tank-missiles-report-313245" hreflang="en">India set to buy Israeli Heron drone, Spike anti-tank missiles: Report</a>

In his address, Modi said ''People ask me that in these times when businesses &amp; markets are changing so fast how to stay relevant. This question is even more important during this COVID-19 pandemic. Mantra to be relevant is to skill, reskill&nbsp;and upskill.''

''I extend my best wishes to youngsters on World Youth Skill Day today. During this time of #CoronaPandemic, along with work culture, the nature of the job has also changed and the ever-changing new technology has also been affected, but youth is gaining new skills in the changing times,'' he added.

The conclave was&nbsp;organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, according to an official statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-dilution-in-india-iran-commitment-to-jointly-develop-chabahar-zahedan-rail-project-313394" hreflang="en">No dilution in India-Iran commitment to develop Chabahar-Zahedan rail project</a>

Skill India is an initiative of the Centre which was launched to empower the youth with skills to help them get jobs and also give more productive in their work environment.

It offers courses in several sectors that are aligned to the standards recognised by both, the industry and the government under the National Skill Qualification Framework.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a five-minute video address on the occasion of World Youth Skills Day on Wednesday. The day also marks the fifth anniversary of the launch of the Skill India Mission which was introduced in 2015.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a five-minute video address on the occasion of World Youth Skills Day on Wednesday. The day also marks the fifth anniversary of the launch of the Skill India Mission which was introduced in 2015. Also read: India set to buy Israeli Heron drone, Spike anti-tank missiles: Report In his address, Modi said ''People ask me that in these times when businesses & markets are changing so fast how to stay relevant. This question is even more important during this COVID-19 pandemic. Mantra to be relevant is to skill, reskill and upskill.'' ''I extend my best wishes to youngsters on World Youth Skill Day today. During this time of #CoronaPandemic, along with work culture, the nature of the job has also changed and the ever-changing new technology has also been affected, but youth is gaining new skills in the changing times,'' he added. The conclave was organised by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, according to an official statement. Also read: No dilution in India-Iran commitment to develop Chabahar-Zahedan rail project Skill India is an initiative of the Centre which was launched to empower the youth with skills to help them get jobs and also give more productive in their work environment. It offers courses in several sectors that are aligned to the standards recognised by both, the industry and the government under the National Skill Qualification Framework.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishes Indian youngsters on World Youth Skills Day

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Responding to a WION's question, Charles Michel, president, European Council, said, "yes we discussed this topic. PM Modi informed us about the latest development regarding this incident with China and we support all the efforts to maintain a channel of dialogue and find peace full solution"

The Ministry of External Affairs in a post-summit press conference also confirmed that the issue was discussed.&nbsp;

Vikas Swarup, Secretary west, MEA &nbsp;said," PM shared our views on India-China relations in general and the current situation at the border areas."

Increased Chinese aggressiveness has been a cause of worry for many of its neighbours including India, Japan.&nbsp;

Violent clashes broke out last month between Indian and Chinese forces at the LAC &nbsp;in Eastern Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers died. The face-off took place after Chinese build-up in the area which hindered Indian patroling pattern.

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Chinese aggression was discussed at the 15th India EU (virtual) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefing the European leaders about the situation at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Responding to a WION's question, Charles Michel, president, European Council, said, "yes we discussed this topic. PM Modi informed us about the latest development regarding this incident with China and we support all the efforts to maintain a channel of dialogue and find peace full solution" The Ministry of External Affairs in a post-summit press conference also confirmed that the issue was discussed. Vikas Swarup, Secretary west, MEA said," PM shared our views on India-China relations in general and the current situation at the border areas." Increased Chinese aggressiveness has been a cause of worry for many of its neighbours including India, Japan. Violent clashes broke out last month between Indian and Chinese forces at the LAC in Eastern Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers died. The face-off took place after Chinese build-up in the area which hindered Indian patroling pattern.

Chinese aggression discussed at India-EU Summit: European Council president

India and European Union partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday.

Speaking at the 15th India- European Union (virtual)&nbsp;summit,&nbsp;Indian PM called India and EU natural partners.

''Our partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world. This reality has become even more clear in the global situation today,'' PM said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/brussels-bats-for-india-eu-fta-but-highlights-new-delhis-protectionist-policies-313299">Brussels bats for India-EU FTA, but highlights New Delhi's protectionist policies</a>

''We both believe in democracy, freedom, transparencies, respect for international institutions,'' Modi noted.

On the pandemic that is gripping the world,&nbsp;PM said democracies should come together to deal with COVID crisis.&nbsp;

Modi stressed that long-term challenges like climate change was&nbsp;a priority for India and the EU.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/european-union-briefed-by-india-china-on-border-face-off-313251">Also read:&nbsp;European Union briefed by India, China on border face-off</a>

''Apart from current challenges, long-term challenges like climate change also a priority for India and the EU. In our efforts to increase the use of renewable energy in India, we invite investment and technology from Europe,'' &nbsp;Modis said.

Speaking on the occasion,&nbsp;European Council President Charles Michel thanked India for its cooperation.&nbsp;

''I would like to thank India for the cooperation your country has shown with the EU. I would like to pay tribute to your role nationally and internationally, multilaterally in combating COVID19 pandemic,'' said Michel.

India and European Union partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday. Speaking at the 15th India- European Union (virtual) summit, Indian PM called India and EU natural partners.

India and European Union partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday. Speaking at the 15th India- European Union (virtual) summit, Indian PM called India and EU natural partners. ''Our partnership is significant for peace and stability of the world. This reality has become even more clear in the global situation today,'' PM said. Also read: Brussels bats for India-EU FTA, but highlights New Delhi's protectionist policies ''We both believe in democracy, freedom, transparencies, respect for international institutions,'' Modi noted. On the pandemic that is gripping the world, PM said democracies should come together to deal with COVID crisis. Modi stressed that long-term challenges like climate change was a priority for India and the EU. Also read: European Union briefed by India, China on border face-off ''Apart from current challenges, long-term challenges like climate change also a priority for India and the EU. In our efforts to increase the use of renewable energy in India, we invite investment and technology from Europe,'' Modis said. Speaking on the occasion, European Council President Charles Michel thanked India for its cooperation. ''I would like to thank India for the cooperation your country has shown with the EU. I would like to pay tribute to your role nationally and internationally, multilaterally in combating COVID19 pandemic,'' said Michel.

India-EU partnership is significant for peace and stability of world: PM Modi

India has been at the receiving end in its relationship with China during the last seven decades. Looking back at Indo-China relationship, it would become clear that China, all the time, viewed India as a weak country.

In the 1950s, the then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru went out of the way to placate China and he did his level best to keep China in good humour. In spite of being a historian himself, Nehru could not anticipate the aggressive behaviour of China. He thought that China would be an all-weather friend of India.

In the year 1962, when China launched a war against India, Nehru realised his folly and said that China has stabbed India in the back. An unprepared Indian defence crumbled against China’s aggression and till today, China occupies thousands of acres of Indian territory in the Ladakh region that is gained due to the one-sided war.

Even after several years, it was clear that India has not learnt any lesson, as Prime Minister Vajpayee signed a treaty with China accepting the division of Tibet into four parts and merging three with neighbouring Chinese states.

In spite of several provocations of China like claiming Indian state Arunachal Pradesh as its own and so many other anti-India postures, it appears Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been hoping against hope that he can win China’s friendship. Modi visited China several times and received the Chinese President &nbsp;Xi Jinping in India two times, extending&nbsp;a very warm and fabulous welcome to him. Modi probably thought that he could please Xi Jinping with such gestures and can get constructive cooperation from China.&nbsp;

Certainly, in the coming days, China would play hot and cold with India, as it appears&nbsp;that Prime Minister Modi would not confront China beyond a level.&nbsp;

The question remains now as to whether Modi would pay back China in the same coin after his bitter recent experience or he would go back to the old policy for the sake of maintaining peaceful relations with this aggressive China, that has no ethical values in its approach to the issues while dealing with other countries.

At present, PM Modi appears to be maintaining care and caution while dealing with China. Confronting China is&nbsp;necessary for India as the present Chinese government continues to remain in power as a ruthless and self-centred entity.&nbsp;Or else, the dragon would have the last laugh.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India has been at the receiving end in its relationship with China during the last seven decades. Looking back at Indo-China relationship, it would become clear that China, all the time, viewed India as a weak country.

India has been at the receiving end in its relationship with China during the last seven decades. Looking back at Indo-China relationship, it would become clear that China, all the time, viewed India as a weak country. In the 1950s, the then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru went out of the way to placate China and he did his level best to keep China in good humour. In spite of being a historian himself, Nehru could not anticipate the aggressive behaviour of China. He thought that China would be an all-weather friend of India. In the year 1962, when China launched a war against India, Nehru realised his folly and said that China has stabbed India in the back. An unprepared Indian defence crumbled against China’s aggression and till today, China occupies thousands of acres of Indian territory in the Ladakh region that is gained due to the one-sided war. Even after several years, it was clear that India has not learnt any lesson, as Prime Minister Vajpayee signed a treaty with China accepting the division of Tibet into four parts and merging three with neighbouring Chinese states. In spite of several provocations of China like claiming Indian state Arunachal Pradesh as its own and so many other anti-India postures, it appears Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been hoping against hope that he can win China’s friendship. Modi visited China several times and received the Chinese President Xi Jinping in India two times, extending a very warm and fabulous welcome to him. Modi probably thought that he could please Xi Jinping with such gestures and can get constructive cooperation from China. Certainly, in the coming days, China would play hot and cold with India, as it appears that Prime Minister Modi would not confront China beyond a level. The question remains now as to whether Modi would pay back China in the same coin after his bitter recent experience or he would go back to the old policy for the sake of maintaining peaceful relations with this aggressive China, that has no ethical values in its approach to the issues while dealing with other countries. At present, PM Modi appears to be maintaining care and caution while dealing with China. Confronting China is necessary for India as the present Chinese government continues to remain in power as a ruthless and self-centred entity. Or else, the dragon would have the last laugh. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Let's not allow China to have the last laugh

Recognising Google's efforts in various sectors, including Digital India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted about the details of his video interaction with Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai.&nbsp;

PM Modi tweeted that he had an "extremely fruitful interaction" with Pichai, where they talked on a wide range of subjects, "particularly leveraging the power of technology to transform the lives of India’s farmers, youngsters and entrepreneurs".

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This morning, had an extremely fruitful interaction with <a href="https://twitter.com/sundarpichai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sundarpichai</a>. We spoke on a wide range of subjects, particularly leveraging the power of technology to transform the lives of India’s farmers, youngsters and entrepreneurs. <a href="https://t.co/IS9W24zZxs">pic.twitter.com/IS9W24zZxs</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1282582190061047808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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During our interaction, <a href="https://twitter.com/sundarpichai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sundarpichai</a> and I spoke about the new work culture that is emerging in the times of COVID-19. We discussed the challenges the global pandemic has brought to areas such as sports. We also talked about the importance of data security and cyber safety.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1282582191910744065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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I was delighted to know more about the efforts of <a href="https://twitter.com/Google?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Google</a> in several sectors, be it in education, learning, <a href="https://twitter.com/_DigitalIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_DigitalIndia</a>, furthering digital payments and more. <a href="https://twitter.com/sundarpichai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sundarpichai</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1282582193496186880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He also said they also spoke on the change in the work culture "emerging in the times of COVID-19".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-to-invest-rs75000-crore-in-india-sets-up-india-digitisation-fund-312981">Google to invest ₹75,000 crore in India, sets up India Digitisation Fund</a>

"We discussed the challenges the global pandemic has brought to areas such as sports. We also talked about the importance of data security and cyber safety."

The Indian prime minister recognised Google's efforts in various sectors, be it education, learning, Digital India, Digital Payments, among others.&nbsp;

Earlier Pichai announced that the tech giant would be investing nearly $10 billion in India for developing infrastructure and funding digital innovation in the next five to seven years.&nbsp;

The announcements came at the sixth edition of Google for India event, which was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

In the event, Google also said it would expand the scope of digital payments using Google Pay and develop affordable smartphones to encourage feature phone users to make a transition of using smartphones.&nbsp;

Recognising Google's efforts in various sectors, including Digital India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted about the details of his video interaction with Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai.

Recognising Google's efforts in various sectors, including Digital India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted about the details of his video interaction with Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai. PM Modi tweeted that he had an "extremely fruitful interaction" with Pichai, where they talked on a wide range of subjects, "particularly leveraging the power of technology to transform the lives of India’s farmers, youngsters and entrepreneurs". This morning, had an extremely fruitful interaction with @sundarpichai. We spoke on a wide range of subjects, particularly leveraging the power of technology to transform the lives of India’s farmers, youngsters and entrepreneurs. pic.twitter.com/IS9W24zZxs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2020 × During our interaction, @sundarpichai and I spoke about the new work culture that is emerging in the times of COVID-19. We discussed the challenges the global pandemic has brought to areas such as sports. We also talked about the importance of data security and cyber safety. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2020 × I was delighted to know more about the efforts of @Google in several sectors, be it in education, learning, @_DigitalIndia, furthering digital payments and more. @sundarpichai — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 13, 2020 × He also said they also spoke on the change in the work culture "emerging in the times of COVID-19". Also read | Google to invest ₹75,000 crore in India, sets up India Digitisation Fund "We discussed the challenges the global pandemic has brought to areas such as sports. We also talked about the importance of data security and cyber safety." The Indian prime minister recognised Google's efforts in various sectors, be it education, learning, Digital India, Digital Payments, among others. Earlier Pichai announced that the tech giant would be investing nearly $10 billion in India for developing infrastructure and funding digital innovation in the next five to seven years. The announcements came at the sixth edition of Google for India event, which was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. In the event, Google also said it would expand the scope of digital payments using Google Pay and develop affordable smartphones to encourage feature phone users to make a transition of using smartphones.

PM Narendra Modi shares details of conversation with Sundar Pichai

Tech giant Google on Monday announced that it will be setting up an India digitisation fund worth $10 billion (approximately ₹ 75,000 crores), which it will be deploying over the next 5-7 years to help India go digital. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/now-sundar-pichai-led-alphabet-joins-trillion-dollar-club-274895">Also read: Now, Sundar Pichai-led Alphabet joins a trillion-dollar club</a> 
 
"We will do this through a mix of equity investment, partnerships and an operational infrastructure ecosystem in India. This is a reflection of our confidence in the future of India and its digital economy," Google CEO Sundar Pichai said during the Google for India virtual conference.

"Second, building new products and services that are deeply relevant to India`s unique needs. Third, empowering businesses to continue or embark on digital transformation. And fourth, leveraging technology and Artificial Intelligence for social good in areas like health, agriculture and education," the Google CEO said.

"This is a reflection of our confidence in the future of India and its digital economy," Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet, said on a webcast during the annual ‘Google for India’ event.

Remembering the old Doordarshan days Pichai said that "Every evening we were drawn to the television by Doordarshan’s special rendition of “Sare Jahan Se Accha.” I tried to explain this to my colleagues the other day, but I eventually gave up and just showed it to them on YouTube."

Union IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad was also present during the conference.

“The way this new fund is going to be used from creating digital infrastructure and creating startups to further enhance their potential is something I would like to watch closely and personally. Our PM has already announced AtmaNirbhar Bharat where Indian entrepreneurs are being asked to create new digital products which are made in India. India's app economy is also growing,” said Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Tech giant Google on Monday announced that it will be setting up an India digitisation fund worth $10 billion (approximately ₹ 75,000 crores), which it will be deploying over the next 5-7 years to help India go digital.

Tech giant Google on Monday announced that it will be setting up an India digitisation fund worth $10 billion (approximately ₹ 75,000 crores), which it will be deploying over the next 5-7 years to help India go digital. Also read: Now, Sundar Pichai-led Alphabet joins a trillion-dollar club "We will do this through a mix of equity investment, partnerships and an operational infrastructure ecosystem in India. This is a reflection of our confidence in the future of India and its digital economy," Google CEO Sundar Pichai said during the Google for India virtual conference. "Second, building new products and services that are deeply relevant to India`s unique needs. Third, empowering businesses to continue or embark on digital transformation. And fourth, leveraging technology and Artificial Intelligence for social good in areas like health, agriculture and education," the Google CEO said. "This is a reflection of our confidence in the future of India and its digital economy," Sundar Pichai, CEO of Alphabet, said on a webcast during the annual ‘Google for India’ event. Remembering the old Doordarshan days Pichai said that "Every evening we were drawn to the television by Doordarshan’s special rendition of “Sare Jahan Se Accha.” I tried to explain this to my colleagues the other day, but I eventually gave up and just showed it to them on YouTube." Union IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad was also present during the conference. “The way this new fund is going to be used from creating digital infrastructure and creating startups to further enhance their potential is something I would like to watch closely and personally. Our PM has already announced AtmaNirbhar Bharat where Indian entrepreneurs are being asked to create new digital products which are made in India. India's app economy is also growing,” said Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. (With inputs from agencies)

Google to invest ₹75,000 crore in India, sets up India Digitisation Fund

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday sought the intervention of&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi in cancelling final year exams of Delhi University and other Central universities in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Kejriwal said "unprecedented decisions" need to be taken during the prevalence of a pandemic such as COVID-19. 
 
"For the sake of our youth, I urge Hon'ble PM to personally intervene and cancel final year exams of DU and other central government universities and save the future," Kejriwal tweeted while sharing his letter to Modi.

The chief minister said there is much anger among lakhs of students, teachers and parents due to the University Grants Commission (UGC) direction to the universities and colleges for conducting written offline or online exams for the final semester.

'"All believe this decision is wrong and should be immediately withdrawn," Kejriwal said in the letter.

Prominent universities like Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and National Law Universities (NLUs) have already awarded degrees to the final semester students on the basis on internal assessment. Then why can't other universities do so, he questioned.

"Worldover, the prominent universities in big countries have awarded degrees on the basis of internal assessment in this time of coronavirus," he said.

The Centre has to take a decision in this regard in case of Central Universities including Delhi University (DU), Kejriwal's letter stated.&nbsp;"But, the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) and UGC are not ready to change their decision. It seems only your intervention can solve this problem," Kejriwal wrote to Modi.

He requested the Prime Minister that the Central government and the UGC should amend their directions and cancel last semester exams in the wider interest of the students.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in cancelling final year exams of Delhi University and other Central universities in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in cancelling final year exams of Delhi University and other Central universities in view of the coronavirus pandemic. In a letter to the Prime Minister, Kejriwal said "unprecedented decisions" need to be taken during the prevalence of a pandemic such as COVID-19. "For the sake of our youth, I urge Hon'ble PM to personally intervene and cancel final year exams of DU and other central government universities and save the future," Kejriwal tweeted while sharing his letter to Modi. The chief minister said there is much anger among lakhs of students, teachers and parents due to the University Grants Commission (UGC) direction to the universities and colleges for conducting written offline or online exams for the final semester. '"All believe this decision is wrong and should be immediately withdrawn," Kejriwal said in the letter. Prominent universities like Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and National Law Universities (NLUs) have already awarded degrees to the final semester students on the basis on internal assessment. Then why can't other universities do so, he questioned. "Worldover, the prominent universities in big countries have awarded degrees on the basis of internal assessment in this time of coronavirus," he said. The Centre has to take a decision in this regard in case of Central Universities including Delhi University (DU), Kejriwal's letter stated. "But, the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) and UGC are not ready to change their decision. It seems only your intervention can solve this problem," Kejriwal wrote to Modi. He requested the Prime Minister that the Central government and the UGC should amend their directions and cancel last semester exams in the wider interest of the students. (With inputs from PTI)

Kejriwal writes to PM seeking cancellation of Delhi University exams

US President Donald Trump thanked "friend" Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings on the 244th anniversary of the American Independence Day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-wishes-donald-trump-on-us-independence-day-310762" hreflang="en">PM Modi wishes Donald Trump on US Independence Day</a>

Trump tweeted: “Thank you my friend. America loves India!”

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Thank you my friend. America loves India! <a href="https://t.co/mlvJ51l8XJ">https://t.co/mlvJ51l8XJ</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1279469749567655936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, PM Modi tweeted: "I congratulate US President Donald Trump and the people of the USA on the 244th Independence Day of the USA."

"As the world's largest democracies, we cherish freedom and human enterprise that this day celebrates."

Independence Day is annually celebrated in the United States on July 4 and is often known as "the Fourth of July".&nbsp;

This year the day is marred by a couple of factors -- the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country, the Black Lives Matter movement and Trump's Mt Rushmore speech.

Both world leaders share a strong bond and often call each other "friend".&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump thanked "friend" Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings on the 244th anniversary of the American Independence Day. Also read: PM Modi wishes Donald Trump on US Independence Day Trump tweeted: “Thank you my friend.

US President Donald Trump thanked "friend" Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his greetings on the 244th anniversary of the American Independence Day. Also read: PM Modi wishes Donald Trump on US Independence Day Trump tweeted: “Thank you my friend. America loves India!” Thank you my friend. America loves India! https://t.co/mlvJ51l8XJ — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 4, 2020 × Earlier, PM Modi tweeted: "I congratulate US President Donald Trump and the people of the USA on the 244th Independence Day of the USA." "As the world's largest democracies, we cherish freedom and human enterprise that this day celebrates." Independence Day is annually celebrated in the United States on July 4 and is often known as "the Fourth of July". This year the day is marred by a couple of factors -- the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country, the Black Lives Matter movement and Trump's Mt Rushmore speech. Both world leaders share a strong bond and often call each other "friend".

America loves India!: Trump thanks 'friend' PM Modi for Independence Day wish

Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a surprise visit to eastern Ladakh on Friday to meet troops amid a Sino-India military standoff.

PM Modi, who was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief M M Naravane, interacted with personnel of the Army, Air Force and ITBP.

PM Modi told the soldiers injured in the violent face-off with Chinese troops in Ladakh's Galwan Valley last month that they gave a befitting reply. Interacting with the injured personnel at an Army hospital in Leh, he said their bravery will be a source of inspiration for times to come.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-modi-in-ladakh-prime-minister-makes-clash-a-personal-battle-310585/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Today's visit sent out a clear message to China that India is prepared to take on any threat. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-face-off-your-courage-is-higher-than-the-mountains-pm-modi-to-indian-troops-at-ladakh-310351">Also Read: Your courage is higher than the mountains, PM Modi to Indian troops at Ladakh</a>

Launching a firm and veiled swipe at Beijing, PM Modi said that the country has neither bowed before any power of the world nor will it ever do so.

The Indian Prime Minister is facing China challenge head-on. After India imposed a ban on 59 Chinese apps. Modi exited Chinese social media websites by deleting his accounts. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-no-party-should-escalate-tensions-says-china-as-pm-modi-visits-ladakh-310408">Also Read: No party should escalate tensions, says China as PM Modi visits Ladakh</a>

The sudden Ladakh visit caught Beijing by surprise. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters that, "China and India are in communication with each other through military and diplomatic channels. Neither side should make any move that may complicate the border situation."

The standoff against China is not ending soon, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit shows that India is ready to dig in for a long haul.

(With inputs from PTI)

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a surprise visit to eastern Ladakh on Friday to meet troops amid a Sino-India military standoff. PM Modi, who was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief M M Naravane, interacted with personnel of the Army, Air Force and ITBP.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a surprise visit to eastern Ladakh on Friday to meet troops amid a Sino-India military standoff. PM Modi, who was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief M M Naravane, interacted with personnel of the Army, Air Force and ITBP. PM Modi told the soldiers injured in the violent face-off with Chinese troops in Ladakh's Galwan Valley last month that they gave a befitting reply. Interacting with the injured personnel at an Army hospital in Leh, he said their bravery will be a source of inspiration for times to come. Today's visit sent out a clear message to China that India is prepared to take on any threat. Also Read: Your courage is higher than the mountains, PM Modi to Indian troops at Ladakh Launching a firm and veiled swipe at Beijing, PM Modi said that the country has neither bowed before any power of the world nor will it ever do so. The Indian Prime Minister is facing China challenge head-on. After India imposed a ban on 59 Chinese apps. Modi exited Chinese social media websites by deleting his accounts. Also Read: No party should escalate tensions, says China as PM Modi visits Ladakh The sudden Ladakh visit caught Beijing by surprise. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told reporters that, "China and India are in communication with each other through military and diplomatic channels. Neither side should make any move that may complicate the border situation." The standoff against China is not ending soon, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit shows that India is ready to dig in for a long haul. (With inputs from PTI)

India-China standoff: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing

The coronavirus pandemic has triggered global uncertainly and China is looking to benefit from that. Chinese president Xi Jinping has betrayed allies to push his expansionist plans and is using money to buy global influence.&nbsp;

On the other hand, India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is building alliances helping the world with medical supplies.&nbsp;

The Chinese president tackled the worst health crisis in a century by staying out of the public eye, wherein Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed the country at least five times since the Wuhan virus reached India.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-do-leaders-visit-warzones-310528">Also Read:&nbsp;Why do leaders visit warzones?</a> 
 
From the announcement of the lockdown to the unveiling of the economic package, Prime Minister Modi has been at the front and centre of India's response.&nbsp;

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India stood by China as a friend at a time when the coronavirus crisis was at its peak and even provided them with 15 tonnes of medical supplies. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-pm-narendra-modis-ladakh-visit-gives-a-clear-message-to-beijing-310522">Also Read: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing</a>

In return, Chinese forces clashed with Indian Army personnel along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladhak.&nbsp;20 Indian soldiers were killed in action in a 'violent faceoff' with Chinese troops.

At a time when there is a trust deficit in global leadership, Narendra Modi has tried to shape India's position as a global consensus builder.&nbsp;Between March and May, PM Modi spoke to several world leaders.&nbsp;He convened the SAARC leaders’ video conference and also participated in the G20 Leaders’ Summit virtually.

While Xi Jinping has used the pandemic to embark on a global campaign to amass more power, India’s PM Narendra Modi approach to COVID-19 has reaffirmed India's position as a steady partner in an hour of crisis.&nbsp;

&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The coronavirus pandemic has triggered global uncertainly and China is looking to benefit from that. Chinese president Xi Jinping has betrayed allies to push his expansionist plans and is using money to buy global influence.

The coronavirus pandemic has triggered global uncertainly and China is looking to benefit from that. Chinese president Xi Jinping has betrayed allies to push his expansionist plans and is using money to buy global influence. On the other hand, India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is building alliances helping the world with medical supplies. The Chinese president tackled the worst health crisis in a century by staying out of the public eye, wherein Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed the country at least five times since the Wuhan virus reached India. Also Read: Why do leaders visit warzones? From the announcement of the lockdown to the unveiling of the economic package, Prime Minister Modi has been at the front and centre of India's response. India stood by China as a friend at a time when the coronavirus crisis was at its peak and even provided them with 15 tonnes of medical supplies. Also Read: PM Narendra Modi's Ladakh visit gives a clear message to Beijing In return, Chinese forces clashed with Indian Army personnel along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladhak. 20 Indian soldiers were killed in action in a 'violent faceoff' with Chinese troops. At a time when there is a trust deficit in global leadership, Narendra Modi has tried to shape India's position as a global consensus builder. Between March and May, PM Modi spoke to several world leaders. He convened the SAARC leaders’ video conference and also participated in the G20 Leaders’ Summit virtually. While Xi Jinping has used the pandemic to embark on a global campaign to amass more power, India’s PM Narendra Modi approach to COVID-19 has reaffirmed India's position as a steady partner in an hour of crisis.

PM Narendra Modi vs Xi Jinping: How are they different in dealing with challenges?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched `Aatmanirbhar Bharat App Innovation Challenge` to facilitate the techies and start-up community to create world-class Made in India Apps.

The challenge is an endeavour of Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Atal Innovation Mission. Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister said that there is immense enthusiasm among the tech and start-up community to create world class Made in India Apps.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinablockswion-readers-stand-in-solidarity-with-us-310490">Also read|&nbsp;#ChinaBlocksWION: Readers stand in solidarity with us</a>

"Today there is immense enthusiasm among the tech &amp; start-up community to create world class Made in India Apps. To facilitate their ideas and products @GoI_MeitY and @AIMtoInnovate are launching the Aatmanirbhar Bharat App Innovation Challenge," he tweeted.

In another tweet, Prime Minister Modi urged tech community to participate. "This challenge is for you if you have such a working product or if you feel you have the vision and expertise to create such products. I urge all my friends in the tech community to participate. Sharing my thoughts in my @LinkedIn post," he tweeted attaching LinkedIn post.

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This challenge is for you if you have such a working product or if you feel you have the vision and expertise to create such products. I urge all my friends in the tech community to participate. 
 
Sharing my thoughts in my <a href="https://twitter.com/LinkedIn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LinkedIn</a> post. <a href="https://t.co/aO5cMYi4SH">https://t.co/aO5cMYi4SH</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1279353810897387520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In his LinkedIn post, PM Modi wrote, "Nowadays, we are seeing huge interest and enthusiasm among the start-up and tech ecosystem to innovate, develop and promote homegrown apps. Today, when the entire nation is working towards creating an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, it is a good opportunity to give direction to their efforts, momentum to their hard-work and mentorship to their talent to evolve Apps which can satisfy our market as well as compete with the world."

He wrote that this challenge will run in two tracks--Promotion of existing apps and development of new apps.

"Track-01 will work in mission mode for identifying good quality Apps for the leader-board and shall be completed in around a month. Track-02 initiative will work to help create new champions in India by providing support in ideation, incubation, prototyping and roll out along with market access," he wrote in the post.

The outcome of this challenge will be to give better visibility and clarity to existing Apps to achieve their goals, and to create tech products to find solutions to tech conundrums with the help of mentorship, tech support and guidance during the entire life-cycle, he wrote.

Prime Minister Modi in his post said that there is tremendous scope among these sectors for new Apps that solve specific issues for India and the world."Can we think of making traditional Indian games more popular via Apps? Can we develop Apps with targeted and smart access to the right age group for learning, gaming, etc? Can we develop gaming apps for people in rehabilitation or getting counselling to help them in their journey? There are many such questions and technology alone can give answers in a creative manner," said PM Modi.

Recently, the government has banned 59 mobile apps linked to China including Tik Tok, UC Browser, Helo, YouCam makeup and Mi Community in view of the information available that they are engaged in activities which are "prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity and defence" of the country.

Almost all the apps banned on Monday have some preferential Chinese interest and the majority have parent Chinese companies.The ban came amid border tensions with China in Eastern Ladakh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched `Aatmanirbhar Bharat App Innovation Challenge` to facilitate the techies and start-up community to create world-class Made in India Apps.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched `Aatmanirbhar Bharat App Innovation Challenge` to facilitate the techies and start-up community to create world-class Made in India Apps. The challenge is an endeavour of Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Atal Innovation Mission. Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister said that there is immense enthusiasm among the tech and start-up community to create world class Made in India Apps. Also read| #ChinaBlocksWION: Readers stand in solidarity with us "Today there is immense enthusiasm among the tech & start-up community to create world class Made in India Apps. To facilitate their ideas and products @GoI_MeitY and @AIMtoInnovate are launching the Aatmanirbhar Bharat App Innovation Challenge," he tweeted. In another tweet, Prime Minister Modi urged tech community to participate. "This challenge is for you if you have such a working product or if you feel you have the vision and expertise to create such products. I urge all my friends in the tech community to participate. Sharing my thoughts in my @LinkedIn post," he tweeted attaching LinkedIn post. This challenge is for you if you have such a working product or if you feel you have the vision and expertise to create such products. I urge all my friends in the tech community to participate. Sharing my thoughts in my @LinkedIn post. https://t.co/aO5cMYi4SH — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 4, 2020 × In his LinkedIn post, PM Modi wrote, "Nowadays, we are seeing huge interest and enthusiasm among the start-up and tech ecosystem to innovate, develop and promote homegrown apps. Today, when the entire nation is working towards creating an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, it is a good opportunity to give direction to their efforts, momentum to their hard-work and mentorship to their talent to evolve Apps which can satisfy our market as well as compete with the world." He wrote that this challenge will run in two tracks--Promotion of existing apps and development of new apps. "Track-01 will work in mission mode for identifying good quality Apps for the leader-board and shall be completed in around a month. Track-02 initiative will work to help create new champions in India by providing support in ideation, incubation, prototyping and roll out along with market access," he wrote in the post. The outcome of this challenge will be to give better visibility and clarity to existing Apps to achieve their goals, and to create tech products to find solutions to tech conundrums with the help of mentorship, tech support and guidance during the entire life-cycle, he wrote. Prime Minister Modi in his post said that there is tremendous scope among these sectors for new Apps that solve specific issues for India and the world."Can we think of making traditional Indian games more popular via Apps? Can we develop Apps with targeted and smart access to the right age group for learning, gaming, etc? Can we develop gaming apps for people in rehabilitation or getting counselling to help them in their journey? There are many such questions and technology alone can give answers in a creative manner," said PM Modi. Recently, the government has banned 59 mobile apps linked to China including Tik Tok, UC Browser, Helo, YouCam makeup and Mi Community in view of the information available that they are engaged in activities which are "prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity and defence" of the country. Almost all the apps banned on Monday have some preferential Chinese interest and the majority have parent Chinese companies.The ban came amid border tensions with China in Eastern Ladakh.

PM Modi launches 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat App Innovation Challenge' for techies, start-up community

PM Modi in Ladakh : A glance at the visit meant to review situation, boost troop morale

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached&nbsp;Ladakh in a surprise visit to review the situation amid the ongoing face-off between Indian and Chinese forces.&nbsp;

The prime minister was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and Army chief MM Naravane. Sources said 14 Corps Commander briefed them about the situation on the ground.&nbsp;

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PM&nbsp;Modi met soldiers after addressing them in Nimmoo, Ladakh.

"Your valour, respect and sacrifice towards mother earth cannot be compared," the Indian prime minister told the troops at the border, adding: "your courage is higher than the mountains where you are posted."

"The whole country has faith on you," PM Modi said. "Self-reliant India becomes stronger because of you," PM Modi asserted.

"The bravery that you and your compatriots showed, a message has gone to the world about India's strength," the PM said.

"I pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in Galwan Valley, from Leh, Ladakh to Kargil and Siachen and to Galwan Valley, everyone is a witness to the valour of Galwan soldiers."

"The enemies had seen the fury of the soldiers," he said. "This land in Ladakh is India's crown, it has given several Bravehearts to the nation," he said.

"Those who are weak can never initiate peace," he said. The Indian prime minister invoked poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, saying: " Whose battle cry, the earth is still drooling. The pen writes about his glory today. I speak your words with my voice today."

"Those who are weak can never initiate peace," he said.

Referring to Lord Krishna, the PM said: "If we worship Krisna with a flute, the chakradhari bows his head in front of Krishna."

"We are the saame people who pray to the flue playing Lord Krishna but we are also the same people who idolise and follow the same lord Krishna who carries the Sudarshana chakra.

"The era of expansion has ended, now is the era of development, the idea of expansionism always destroys the world," he said.

"If India is buying modern warfare equipment the message is the same and&nbsp;if India is building modern infrastructure the message is also the same," he stressed. "The Indian defence forces have always shown their heroic deeds since World War-II."

"History is witness that expansionist forces have either lost or were forced to turn back," he said, adding." whenever I think of a decision based on national security, I think of the two mothers - the first is our Mother India and the second is our mothers who have given birth to the Bravehearts such as you."

PM Modi's visit to Ladakh is his second outside national capital Delhi since the outbreak of coronavirus. Earlier, he visited the eastern Indian city of Kolkata post destruction due to Cyclone Amphan.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/befitting-reply-has-been-given-to-those-coveting-our-territories-pm-modi-309126">Befitting reply has been given to those coveting our territories: PM Modi</a>

Earlier Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was supposed to visit Ladakh on Friday, but his visit got deferred.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinese-social-media-sites-delete-pm-modis-speech-mea-spokesmans-remarks-on-border-crisis-307322">Chinese social media sites delete PM Modi's speech, MEA spokesman's remarks on border crisis</a>

Tensions between the Asian giants escalated following a violent face-off in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh on June 15, in which 20 Indian troops were martyred.&nbsp;

A number of commander-level talks between India and China have taken place to de-escalate the situation along the border. However, there has not been any reduction in troop deployment by the Chinese.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Ladakh in a surprise visit to review the situation amid the ongoing face-off between Indian and Chinese forces. The prime minister was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and Army chief MM Naravane.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Ladakh in a surprise visit to review the situation amid the ongoing face-off between Indian and Chinese forces. The prime minister was accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and Army chief MM Naravane. Sources said 14 Corps Commander briefed them about the situation on the ground. PM Modi met soldiers after addressing them in Nimmoo, Ladakh. "Your valour, respect and sacrifice towards mother earth cannot be compared," the Indian prime minister told the troops at the border, adding: "your courage is higher than the mountains where you are posted." "The whole country has faith on you," PM Modi said. "Self-reliant India becomes stronger because of you," PM Modi asserted. "The bravery that you and your compatriots showed, a message has gone to the world about India's strength," the PM said. "I pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in Galwan Valley, from Leh, Ladakh to Kargil and Siachen and to Galwan Valley, everyone is a witness to the valour of Galwan soldiers." "The enemies had seen the fury of the soldiers," he said. "This land in Ladakh is India's crown, it has given several Bravehearts to the nation," he said. "Those who are weak can never initiate peace," he said. The Indian prime minister invoked poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, saying: " Whose battle cry, the earth is still drooling. The pen writes about his glory today. I speak your words with my voice today." "Those who are weak can never initiate peace," he said. Referring to Lord Krishna, the PM said: "If we worship Krisna with a flute, the chakradhari bows his head in front of Krishna." "We are the saame people who pray to the flue playing Lord Krishna but we are also the same people who idolise and follow the same lord Krishna who carries the Sudarshana chakra. "The era of expansion has ended, now is the era of development, the idea of expansionism always destroys the world," he said. "If India is buying modern warfare equipment the message is the same and if India is building modern infrastructure the message is also the same," he stressed. "The Indian defence forces have always shown their heroic deeds since World War-II." "History is witness that expansionist forces have either lost or were forced to turn back," he said, adding." whenever I think of a decision based on national security, I think of the two mothers - the first is our Mother India and the second is our mothers who have given birth to the Bravehearts such as you." PM Modi's visit to Ladakh is his second outside national capital Delhi since the outbreak of coronavirus. Earlier, he visited the eastern Indian city of Kolkata post destruction due to Cyclone Amphan. Also read | Befitting reply has been given to those coveting our territories: PM Modi Earlier Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was supposed to visit Ladakh on Friday, but his visit got deferred. Also read | Chinese social media sites delete PM Modi's speech, MEA spokesman's remarks on border crisis Tensions between the Asian giants escalated following a violent face-off in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh on June 15, in which 20 Indian troops were martyred. A number of commander-level talks between India and China have taken place to de-escalate the situation along the border. However, there has not been any reduction in troop deployment by the Chinese.

India-China face-off: Your courage is higher than the mountains, PM Modi to Indian troops at Ladakh

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-congratulates-putin-on-constitutional-vote-310246">PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote</a>

Russia has passed a referendum that gives him another 12 years as president. His current term ends in 2024. Add 12 years to that, and &nbsp;Putin be Russia's leader till 2036. The longest-serving leader of Russia. Longer than Stalin who ruled for 29 years.

Putin grew up in the Soviet Union, was part of the Soviet machinery, takes pride in the Soviet glory and yet, manages to distance himself from the decay that marked USSR.

He's often been called the new age Tsar of Russia. A leader who has destroyed all political opposition and wins elections with landslides.

Putin was born to working-class parents, in a house that was said to be infested with rats and smelled of cabbage stew. He was rebellious. Children carried flowers for teachers, Putin took a potted plant. He was caught with a knife in school and denied membership to the youth wing of the Soviet communist party.&nbsp;

He called himself a hooligan. Played the guitar, listened to contraband Beatles records. His father pushed him to take up boxing. A punch broke his nose and he gave up.

Then he took up judo. It suited him better because he was short and thin. Putin says martial arts transformed his life, gave him a means of asserting himself.

Putin's first leadership role came in middle school. He was his school's leader for the communist party. His dream was to become a soviet secret agent. A dream he could never fulfil, even though he joined the kgb in 1975. He was evaluated as mediocre, withdrawn and uncommunicative.&nbsp;

Putin got one foreign posting in Dresden in East Germany. His only act of heroism came after the fall of the Berlin wall. There were protests.&nbsp;

An angry mob surrounded the KGB office. They had one guard and four officers. Lieutenant Colonel Putin was the seniormost. He called Moscow but received no help. So he wore his uniform, stepped out at midnight and bluffed. He told the protestors his guards had weapons and they would shoot. The crowd dispersed.

In March 1989, the Soviet Union had its first elections. Putin's introduction to politics was through his former law professor Anatoly Sobchak. It was because of him that Putin landed on the right side of the collapse of the Soviet Union. &nbsp;

Putin rose through the ranks and went on to become the right-hand man of President Boris Yeltsin.&nbsp;

December 14, 1999, Yeltsin held a secret meeting with Putin. He was stepping down and wanted Putin to take over.

Putin described the presidency as a "difficult destiny." For 16 days, Putin kept the news to himself. On December 30, Yeltsin shared it in a televised address. Putin's wife learned about it only when people called to congratulate. &nbsp;He did not tell her he was going to be president.

Putin mastered the use of media to his advantage. As a young member of the mayor's team in St Petersberg, he commissioned a television documentary to introduce himself to Russia.&nbsp;

A documentary hosted by the top television face of the time. He did not expunge his KGB past. He distanced himself from their crimes. And said his experience in dealing with foreign forces would come in handy to lead a new Russia. To this day, propaganda movies remain a hallmark of Putin's political journey.

His initial years in power saw the economy steady. He was seen as a reformer, cutting taxes and expanding property rights. But soon he unleashed a new kind of authoritarianism.&nbsp;

He used national security as an excuse to tighten his grip on power. Two terms as President from 2000 to 2008. Then one term as Prime Minister till 2012, because the constitution did not allow him more than two terms. In 2012, when his trusted deputy stepped aside, Putin took the presidential office again, this time for two 6-year terms and now he'll rule practically as long as he wants.&nbsp;

Already at 67 with another 16 years secured, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected path to power, brutally crushing revolts and silencing critics, to keep the crown of Russia.

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him.

Vladimir Putin will be President for life and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the first foreign leader to have called the Russian President to congratulate him. Also read: PM Modi congratulates Putin on constitutional vote Russia has passed a referendum that gives him another 12 years as president. His current term ends in 2024. Add 12 years to that, and Putin be Russia's leader till 2036. The longest-serving leader of Russia. Longer than Stalin who ruled for 29 years. Putin grew up in the Soviet Union, was part of the Soviet machinery, takes pride in the Soviet glory and yet, manages to distance himself from the decay that marked USSR. He's often been called the new age Tsar of Russia. A leader who has destroyed all political opposition and wins elections with landslides. Putin was born to working-class parents, in a house that was said to be infested with rats and smelled of cabbage stew. He was rebellious. Children carried flowers for teachers, Putin took a potted plant. He was caught with a knife in school and denied membership to the youth wing of the Soviet communist party. He called himself a hooligan. Played the guitar, listened to contraband Beatles records. His father pushed him to take up boxing. A punch broke his nose and he gave up. Then he took up judo. It suited him better because he was short and thin. Putin says martial arts transformed his life, gave him a means of asserting himself. Putin's first leadership role came in middle school. He was his school's leader for the communist party. His dream was to become a soviet secret agent. A dream he could never fulfil, even though he joined the kgb in 1975. He was evaluated as mediocre, withdrawn and uncommunicative. Putin got one foreign posting in Dresden in East Germany. His only act of heroism came after the fall of the Berlin wall. There were protests. An angry mob surrounded the KGB office. They had one guard and four officers. Lieutenant Colonel Putin was the seniormost. He called Moscow but received no help. So he wore his uniform, stepped out at midnight and bluffed. He told the protestors his guards had weapons and they would shoot. The crowd dispersed. In March 1989, the Soviet Union had its first elections. Putin's introduction to politics was through his former law professor Anatoly Sobchak. It was because of him that Putin landed on the right side of the collapse of the Soviet Union. Putin rose through the ranks and went on to become the right-hand man of President Boris Yeltsin. December 14, 1999, Yeltsin held a secret meeting with Putin. He was stepping down and wanted Putin to take over. Putin described the presidency as a "difficult destiny." For 16 days, Putin kept the news to himself. On December 30, Yeltsin shared it in a televised address. Putin's wife learned about it only when people called to congratulate. He did not tell her he was going to be president. Putin mastered the use of media to his advantage. As a young member of the mayor's team in St Petersberg, he commissioned a television documentary to introduce himself to Russia. A documentary hosted by the top television face of the time. He did not expunge his KGB past. He distanced himself from their crimes. And said his experience in dealing with foreign forces would come in handy to lead a new Russia. To this day, propaganda movies remain a hallmark of Putin's political journey. His initial years in power saw the economy steady. He was seen as a reformer, cutting taxes and expanding property rights. But soon he unleashed a new kind of authoritarianism. He used national security as an excuse to tighten his grip on power. Two terms as President from 2000 to 2008. Then one term as Prime Minister till 2012, because the constitution did not allow him more than two terms. In 2012, when his trusted deputy stepped aside, Putin took the presidential office again, this time for two 6-year terms and now he'll rule practically as long as he wants. Already at 67 with another 16 years secured, Vladimir Putin took an unexpected path to power, brutally crushing revolts and silencing critics, to keep the crown of Russia.

Vladimir Putin: From a rebellious kid to Russia's longest-serving leader

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29.&nbsp;Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”.

On June 29, four men carrying grenades attacked the Pakistan Stock Exchange, and killed two guards along with a policeman before they were gunned down by security forces.

India had denied any involvement in the attack on the day of the attack, but Khan went on to say that he had “no doubt” about the country’s involvement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/opposition-lashes-out-at-imran-khan-for-calling-laden-a-martyr-308708" hreflang="en">Opposition lashes out at Imran Khan for calling Laden a 'martyr'</a>

Offering no evidence for his allegation, he claimed that there were intelligence reports of a potential attack in Pakistan, and that his cabinet had been alerted about such threats.

However, the responsibility of the attack was taken by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group from Balochistan.

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According to Khan, his country’s intelligence agencies were able to avoid four major terror attacks, out of which two were aimed at Islamabad. He, however, added that it was “not possible” to stop stop such attacks.

The security officials claimed that the gunmen were carrying a heavy supply of armoury, and were planning to take hostages after storming the building.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/pakistan-eulogizing-terrorism-prime-minister-imran-khan-calls-bin-laden-a-martyr-308622" hreflang="en">Pakistan eulogizing terrorism: Prime Minister Imran Khan calls Bin Laden a 'martyr'</a>

Khan referred to the response of Pakistan security forces as a “big victory”, even though three people had died.

In Balochistan, separatists claim that Pakistan has been exploiting the mineral rich area to improve life in the already rich provinces.

Over the course of the last few years, Pakistan has accused India of supporting separatists multiple times, which has been fervently denied by India.

In 2018, the BLA also attacked a Chinese consulate in Karachi.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29. Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan today accused India of orchestrating the attack on Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi on Monday, June 29. Khan told the parliament today that he “had no doubt that India was behind the attack”. On June 29, four men carrying grenades attacked the Pakistan Stock Exchange, and killed two guards along with a policeman before they were gunned down by security forces. India had denied any involvement in the attack on the day of the attack, but Khan went on to say that he had “no doubt” about the country’s involvement. Also read: Opposition lashes out at Imran Khan for calling Laden a 'martyr' Offering no evidence for his allegation, he claimed that there were intelligence reports of a potential attack in Pakistan, and that his cabinet had been alerted about such threats. However, the responsibility of the attack was taken by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist group from Balochistan. According to Khan, his country’s intelligence agencies were able to avoid four major terror attacks, out of which two were aimed at Islamabad. He, however, added that it was “not possible” to stop stop such attacks. The security officials claimed that the gunmen were carrying a heavy supply of armoury, and were planning to take hostages after storming the building. Also read: Pakistan eulogizing terrorism: Prime Minister Imran Khan calls Bin Laden a 'martyr' Khan referred to the response of Pakistan security forces as a “big victory”, even though three people had died. In Balochistan, separatists claim that Pakistan has been exploiting the mineral rich area to improve life in the already rich provinces. Over the course of the last few years, Pakistan has accused India of supporting separatists multiple times, which has been fervently denied by India. In 2018, the BLA also attacked a Chinese consulate in Karachi. (With inputs from Reuters)

Imran Khan accuses India of attacking Pakistan Stock Exchange, offers no evidence

Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli recently accused India of attempting to destabilise his government.

The PM has blamed Indian officials, including those who work in the Indian embassy in Kathmandu, for plotting his exit.

“Given the ongoing intellectual discussions, media reports from New Delhi, embassy’s activities and meetings at different hotels in Kathmandu, it is not very difficult to understand how people are openly active to oust me. But they won’t succeed”, Oli said.

War within?

However, his own party is revolting against him. Oli is not getting along with his party co-chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the former Nepalese PM.

Known commonly as Prachand, Dahal and Oli had merged their parties in 2018.

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Last week, the standing committee of Nepal's ruling party met to decide on the fate of Prime Ministership. Out of the 45 member standing committee - just 15 are expected to support Oli.

Meanwhile, the rival factions accuse Oli of a virtual takeover of acting unilaterally, for Oli is both prime minister and the party chair. On Friday, he was supposed to attend the party meeting, which he skipped.&nbsp;

Resignation?

Two days ago - the Kathmandu Post reported that the standing committee members are preparing to demand Oli's resignation as prime minister on account of "a poor handling of the covid-19 pandemic."

On Friday, the standing committee discussed Nepal's deteriorating ties with India, and discussed Nepal's decision to redraw the country's maps.

The new maps showed Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura - three disputed territories as part of Nepal. The standing committee was of the view that Oli's government should have held a dialogue with India.

The report says, “Oli has avoided major discussions during the previous standing committee meetings, whenever he feels that he is going to be criticised by his own party members”.

Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli recently accused India of attempting to destabilise his government. The PM has blamed Indian officials, including those who work in the Indian embassy in Kathmandu, for plotting his exit.

Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli recently accused India of attempting to destabilise his government. The PM has blamed Indian officials, including those who work in the Indian embassy in Kathmandu, for plotting his exit. “Given the ongoing intellectual discussions, media reports from New Delhi, embassy’s activities and meetings at different hotels in Kathmandu, it is not very difficult to understand how people are openly active to oust me. But they won’t succeed”, Oli said. War within? However, his own party is revolting against him. Oli is not getting along with his party co-chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal, the former Nepalese PM. Known commonly as Prachand, Dahal and Oli had merged their parties in 2018. Last week, the standing committee of Nepal's ruling party met to decide on the fate of Prime Ministership. Out of the 45 member standing committee - just 15 are expected to support Oli. Meanwhile, the rival factions accuse Oli of a virtual takeover of acting unilaterally, for Oli is both prime minister and the party chair. On Friday, he was supposed to attend the party meeting, which he skipped. Resignation? Two days ago - the Kathmandu Post reported that the standing committee members are preparing to demand Oli's resignation as prime minister on account of "a poor handling of the covid-19 pandemic." On Friday, the standing committee discussed Nepal's deteriorating ties with India, and discussed Nepal's decision to redraw the country's maps. The new maps showed Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura - three disputed territories as part of Nepal. The standing committee was of the view that Oli's government should have held a dialogue with India. The report says, “Oli has avoided major discussions during the previous standing committee meetings, whenever he feels that he is going to be criticised by his own party members”.

While Nepal's Oli accuses India of destabilising his government, a revolt brews within his party

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/garib-kalyan-anna-yojana-extended-till-november-says-pm-narendra-modi-309653">Also read: Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana extended till November, says PM Narendra Modi</a> 
 
"In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role," PM Modi said.

Here are the Highlights of PM Narendra Modi's speech

1: PM urged everyone to observe all the safety precautions: "This is a matter of concern. We had taken all precautions during the lockdown and now we have to take all necessary precautions, particularly those living in containment zones,".

2: In comparison to other countries, India is still in a very stable situation, in the battle against COVID-19. Our death rate is under control. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role.

3: One Nation One Ration Card scheme is being actively worked upon. Such a ration card will help those who travel away from their home states.

4: We announced a package of Rs 1.75 lakh crore under PM Garib Kalyan Yojana. Rs 31,000 crore have been deposited in bank accounts of 20 crore poor families in the last 3 months.

5: PM Gareeb Kalyan Anna Yojana will be extended till the end of November, an extension to cost over Rs 90 thousand crores.

6: Under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, govt will provide free ration to 80 crore poor citizens. Each member of the family will get 5 kg of wheat or rice. Also, every family will get 1 Kg of whole chana per month. This will be free of cost.

7: "Be it central government, state governments, civil society, everyone has ensured that the poor don't go hungry," PM Modi said.

8: We are entering in Unlock 2. The festive season is at hand. Also is the season of cough and fever. We should take care of our health.

9: PM Modi expressed gratitude towards farmers and the honest taxpayers without whom the government would not have been able to provide help to the poor.

10: "Whether village Pradhan or country's Pradhan Mantri, no one is above rules," the Prime Minister emphasized.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. Also read: Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana extended till November, says PM Narendra Modi "In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. Also read: Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana extended till November, says PM Narendra Modi "In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role," PM Modi said. Here are the Highlights of PM Narendra Modi's speech 1: PM urged everyone to observe all the safety precautions: "This is a matter of concern. We had taken all precautions during the lockdown and now we have to take all necessary precautions, particularly those living in containment zones,". 2: In comparison to other countries, India is still in a very stable situation, in the battle against COVID-19. Our death rate is under control. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role. 3: One Nation One Ration Card scheme is being actively worked upon. Such a ration card will help those who travel away from their home states. 4: We announced a package of Rs 1.75 lakh crore under PM Garib Kalyan Yojana. Rs 31,000 crore have been deposited in bank accounts of 20 crore poor families in the last 3 months. 5: PM Gareeb Kalyan Anna Yojana will be extended till the end of November, an extension to cost over Rs 90 thousand crores. 6: Under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, govt will provide free ration to 80 crore poor citizens. Each member of the family will get 5 kg of wheat or rice. Also, every family will get 1 Kg of whole chana per month. This will be free of cost. 7: "Be it central government, state governments, civil society, everyone has ensured that the poor don't go hungry," PM Modi said. 8: We are entering in Unlock 2. The festive season is at hand. Also is the season of cough and fever. We should take care of our health. 9: PM Modi expressed gratitude towards farmers and the honest taxpayers without whom the government would not have been able to provide help to the poor. 10: "Whether village Pradhan or country's Pradhan Mantri, no one is above rules," the Prime Minister emphasized.

From Covid-19 guidelines to Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Anna Yojana: Highlights of PM Modi's speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country.

"In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role," PM Modi said.

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Prime Minister extended the Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojna till November 30 in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the scheme, over 80 crore people are entitled to free five kilos of free wheat or rice, and an additional one kilo of anyone pulse per family. The scheme was launched in March after the imposition of lockdown to ensure that loss of livelihoods and restriction on movement should not compound the issue of hunger amongst India's poorest.

"We are planning to bring 'One Nation, One Ration Card'. Now a ration card is also being arranged for the whole of India. The biggest benefit of this will be to those poor colleagues who leave their village and go elsewhere for employment or other needs," announced PM Modi.&nbsp;

"In the last three months, Rs 31,000&nbsp;crore have been deposited directly into Jan Dhan accounts of 20 crore poor families. During this time, 18 thousand crore rupees have been deposited in the bank accounts of more than 9 crore farmers," the PM said.

India is at a very crucial phase in its fight against COVID-19 and on Tuesday the tally rose to 5, 66,840. The death toll rose to 16,893 with 418 ore persons succumbing to the virus.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. "In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the nation, his sixth such televised address since the outbreak of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. "In comparison to other countries across the globe, India is still in a very stable situation in the battle against Covid-19. Timely decisions and measures have played a great role," PM Modi said. #LIVE | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) addresses the nation https://t.co/2ivFA3jRxR — WION (@WIONews) June 30, 2020 × Prime Minister extended the Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Ann Yojna till November 30 in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the scheme, over 80 crore people are entitled to free five kilos of free wheat or rice, and an additional one kilo of anyone pulse per family. The scheme was launched in March after the imposition of lockdown to ensure that loss of livelihoods and restriction on movement should not compound the issue of hunger amongst India's poorest. "We are planning to bring 'One Nation, One Ration Card'. Now a ration card is also being arranged for the whole of India. The biggest benefit of this will be to those poor colleagues who leave their village and go elsewhere for employment or other needs," announced PM Modi. "In the last three months, Rs 31,000 crore have been deposited directly into Jan Dhan accounts of 20 crore poor families. During this time, 18 thousand crore rupees have been deposited in the bank accounts of more than 9 crore farmers," the PM said. India is at a very crucial phase in its fight against COVID-19 and on Tuesday the tally rose to 5, 66,840. The death toll rose to 16,893 with 418 ore persons succumbing to the virus.

Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana extended till November, says PM Narendra Modi

With India’s coronavirus tally nearing the six lakh mark, the country is taking significant steps to weather the pandemic and its economic impact. From announcing the Atma Nirbhar Abhiyan (self-reliant India Mission) to boost the Indian industry and become less dependent on the global companies, to looking at the global partnership by asking the G20 members to work on policies to ensure flexible access to treatments for COVID-19 across borders, India is trying hard to stay ahead of the virus. This clearly implies we understand the importance of global partnerships to develop as a manufacturing hub for domestic as well as international consumption but are reluctant to provide them with market access. It’s a noble thought at a time when we want to provide impetus to our local industry. However, currently, when we are looking at the world for a vaccine and healthcare solutions to defeat the COVID-19 juggernaut we may want to spare the healthcare sector from the inward policy and look outwards for stronger collaborations to increase India’s access to global solutions.&nbsp;

Why Collaboration is Key &nbsp;

India is called the pharmacy of the world but that does not mean we are self-reliant in manufacturing them; we rely on China for key APIs, vitamins, antibiotics and excipients. There is no doubt that India is capable enough to make finished formulations and key ingredients, however, the country may take a few years to get there. For the production of even ventilators, we are dependent on imports of several components like pressure sensors and solenoid valves. Therefore, we need to provide easy access to global technologies and inputs in our journey to become self-dependent, as a self-sufficient approach alone will prove to be detrimental given the global nature of supply chains. &nbsp;

Government pressure and domestic demand have forced several local manufacturers to throw their hat in the ring and it triggered a wave of ingenuine ventilator production and even after two months of manufacturing, these ventilators remain unsold, according to some media reports. Take, for instance, production of low-cost ventilators in India in a bid to make COVID-19 treatment affordable for all, fell flat. For rendering affordable solutions to all, India tried to take a short cut through ‘jugaad’ system. According to reports, we now have locally manufactured ventilators which are made without any clinical precision, real engineering and most importantly, evaluation. We need more original thinking, and it is felt that more investment and autonomy in research can play a big role in it.&nbsp;

The Gaping Holes in India’s Healthcare Structure&nbsp;

Recently the government’s Make in India push also received a very big jolt recently after Gujarat manufactured Dhaman-1 ventilators’ quality was questioned by the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital doctors who called them artificial manual breathing devices.&nbsp;

A video went viral in which a doctor from a hospital in Vadodara was heard saying that Dhaman-1 ventilators are not of good quality and can only be used if necessary. &nbsp;Amidst the scare of rising COVID-19 cases is it advisable to risk the lives of several Indians only to boost the Indian firms which are still struggling to build capacity? &nbsp;

It becomes crucial to understand how a push was made to sell an ayurvedic combination for the cure of COVID-19 by Patanjali without any permission, at a time when the world is struggling for a vaccine or drug for the disease.&nbsp;

Mumbai, home to more than 20 million people and an epicentre for coronavirus outbreak in India, is on the brink of collapse as now the emergency ward of hospitals have two people on a bed. Corpses of virus victims were also found next to patients in another hospital in the city. The situation has highlighted India’s crumbling health infrastructure burdened by the unprecedented demand and exposed its lack of resources and self-sufficiency. Therefore, this is not the time to turn our back on access to critical medical supplies, technologies and therapies by adopting an inward-looking ecosystem. &nbsp;

The way forward&nbsp;

India stood at 63 in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business 2020 luring international manufacturers to invest in the country. &nbsp;But the question is how will global innovation enter a country that does not offer them an environment to prosper? Therefore, the right policies along with uninterrupted and robust supply chains are the need of the hour to ensure that essential life-saving products can be rendered to patients in time.&nbsp;

Indian healthcare industry is at a developing stage, making global partnerships critical in providing quality healthcare facilities to 1.3 billion citizens. To respond to the coronavirus, the medical device industry is playing a key role in ensuring that hospitals are adequately equipped to protect healthcare workers and save lives. But for global manufacturers to continue supporting India with the necessary technologies, the country needs to build welcoming policies and a conducive environment. Everything said and done, the time is right for the country to learn from counterparts and fix the gaps in its existing healthcare infrastructure. From more beds, ventilators, PPE, and test kits to a stronger global connection for bringing the latest technology and vaccines to patients, the existing medical sector needs a complete structural revamp. Made in India should be the outcome and develop organically rather than acting as a disruptor.&nbsp;

 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

With India’s coronavirus tally nearing the six lakh mark, the country is taking significant steps to weather the pandemic and its economic impact. From announcing the Atma Nirbhar Abhiyan (self-reliant India Mission) to boost the Indian industry and become less dependent on the global companies, to looking at the global partnership by asking the G20 members to work on policies to ensure flexible access to treatments for COVID-19 across borders, India is trying hard to stay ahead of the virus.

With India’s coronavirus tally nearing the six lakh mark, the country is taking significant steps to weather the pandemic and its economic impact. From announcing the Atma Nirbhar Abhiyan (self-reliant India Mission) to boost the Indian industry and become less dependent on the global companies, to looking at the global partnership by asking the G20 members to work on policies to ensure flexible access to treatments for COVID-19 across borders, India is trying hard to stay ahead of the virus. This clearly implies we understand the importance of global partnerships to develop as a manufacturing hub for domestic as well as international consumption but are reluctant to provide them with market access. It’s a noble thought at a time when we want to provide impetus to our local industry. However, currently, when we are looking at the world for a vaccine and healthcare solutions to defeat the COVID-19 juggernaut we may want to spare the healthcare sector from the inward policy and look outwards for stronger collaborations to increase India’s access to global solutions. Why Collaboration is Key India is called the pharmacy of the world but that does not mean we are self-reliant in manufacturing them; we rely on China for key APIs, vitamins, antibiotics and excipients. There is no doubt that India is capable enough to make finished formulations and key ingredients, however, the country may take a few years to get there. For the production of even ventilators, we are dependent on imports of several components like pressure sensors and solenoid valves. Therefore, we need to provide easy access to global technologies and inputs in our journey to become self-dependent, as a self-sufficient approach alone will prove to be detrimental given the global nature of supply chains. Government pressure and domestic demand have forced several local manufacturers to throw their hat in the ring and it triggered a wave of ingenuine ventilator production and even after two months of manufacturing, these ventilators remain unsold, according to some media reports. Take, for instance, production of low-cost ventilators in India in a bid to make COVID-19 treatment affordable for all, fell flat. For rendering affordable solutions to all, India tried to take a short cut through ‘jugaad’ system. According to reports, we now have locally manufactured ventilators which are made without any clinical precision, real engineering and most importantly, evaluation. We need more original thinking, and it is felt that more investment and autonomy in research can play a big role in it. The Gaping Holes in India’s Healthcare Structure Recently the government’s Make in India push also received a very big jolt recently after Gujarat manufactured Dhaman-1 ventilators’ quality was questioned by the Ahmedabad Civil Hospital doctors who called them artificial manual breathing devices. A video went viral in which a doctor from a hospital in Vadodara was heard saying that Dhaman-1 ventilators are not of good quality and can only be used if necessary. Amidst the scare of rising COVID-19 cases is it advisable to risk the lives of several Indians only to boost the Indian firms which are still struggling to build capacity? It becomes crucial to understand how a push was made to sell an ayurvedic combination for the cure of COVID-19 by Patanjali without any permission, at a time when the world is struggling for a vaccine or drug for the disease. Mumbai, home to more than 20 million people and an epicentre for coronavirus outbreak in India, is on the brink of collapse as now the emergency ward of hospitals have two people on a bed. Corpses of virus victims were also found next to patients in another hospital in the city. The situation has highlighted India’s crumbling health infrastructure burdened by the unprecedented demand and exposed its lack of resources and self-sufficiency. Therefore, this is not the time to turn our back on access to critical medical supplies, technologies and therapies by adopting an inward-looking ecosystem. The way forward India stood at 63 in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business 2020 luring international manufacturers to invest in the country. But the question is how will global innovation enter a country that does not offer them an environment to prosper? Therefore, the right policies along with uninterrupted and robust supply chains are the need of the hour to ensure that essential life-saving products can be rendered to patients in time. Indian healthcare industry is at a developing stage, making global partnerships critical in providing quality healthcare facilities to 1.3 billion citizens. To respond to the coronavirus, the medical device industry is playing a key role in ensuring that hospitals are adequately equipped to protect healthcare workers and save lives. But for global manufacturers to continue supporting India with the necessary technologies, the country needs to build welcoming policies and a conducive environment. Everything said and done, the time is right for the country to learn from counterparts and fix the gaps in its existing healthcare infrastructure. From more beds, ventilators, PPE, and test kits to a stronger global connection for bringing the latest technology and vaccines to patients, the existing medical sector needs a complete structural revamp. Made in India should be the outcome and develop organically rather than acting as a disruptor. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Riding on ‘Atma Nirbhar’ wings: Is India ready to take the plunge?

The government will launch a specialised e-marketplace for tribal artisans this Independence Day, connecting them to a larger national and international market.

Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) staff, along with state government officials, will train the artisans and help them register on the website.

"We will launch the website – Tribes India e-Mart – on Independence Day on August 15. It will be similar to selling your products on e-commerce giants Amazon or Flipkart. The difference is just that it will be only for tribals,” Managing Director of TRIFED Praveer Krishna said.

TRIFED, which was set up in 1987, functions under the Union Tribal Affairs Ministry. The campaign is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of an Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant&nbsp;India). 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-makes-it-mandatory-for-sellers-to-mention-country-of-origin-on-products-for-gem-307921">Also Read: Government makes it mandatory for sellers to mention 'country of origin' on products for GeM</a>

The products of tribal sellers will undergo a strict quality check and a committee will fix prices for each item. There will be local collection centres from where the products will be supplied across the country.

Last week, the government procurement portal GeM has made it mandatory for sellers to mention ''country of origin'' on products they wish to sell through the platform, a move aimed at promoting Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India)

Government e-Marketplace (GEM) has also enabled a provision for the indication of the percentage of local content in products with a view to promote Make in India. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

The government will launch a specialised e-marketplace for tribal artisans this Independence Day, connecting them to a larger national and international market. Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) staff, along with state government officials, will train the artisans and help them register on the website.

The government will launch a specialised e-marketplace for tribal artisans this Independence Day, connecting them to a larger national and international market. Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) staff, along with state government officials, will train the artisans and help them register on the website. "We will launch the website – Tribes India e-Mart – on Independence Day on August 15. It will be similar to selling your products on e-commerce giants Amazon or Flipkart. The difference is just that it will be only for tribals,” Managing Director of TRIFED Praveer Krishna said. TRIFED, which was set up in 1987, functions under the Union Tribal Affairs Ministry. The campaign is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of an Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). Also Read: Government makes it mandatory for sellers to mention 'country of origin' on products for GeM The products of tribal sellers will undergo a strict quality check and a committee will fix prices for each item. There will be local collection centres from where the products will be supplied across the country. Last week, the government procurement portal GeM has made it mandatory for sellers to mention ''country of origin'' on products they wish to sell through the platform, a move aimed at promoting Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) Government e-Marketplace (GEM) has also enabled a provision for the indication of the percentage of local content in products with a view to promote Make in India. (With inputs from PTI)

Government to launch an e-marketplace exclusively for tribal sellers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that India fared much better than many other countries&nbsp;in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Delivering the inaugural address to mark the 90th birth anniversary celebrations of Reverend Dr Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Modi said "earlier this year, some people had predicted that the impact of the virus in India would be very severe. Due to lockdown, many initiatives have been taken by the Government and in this people-driven fight, India is much better placed than many other nations. India`s recovery rate is rising," Modi said in his virtual address.

Modi warned that the time was not apt to "let our guard down".

The prime minister greeted the Mar Thoma Metropolitan and wished him "long life and best health."

"Dr Joseph Mar Thoma has devoted his life for the betterment of our society and nation. He has been particularly passionate about the removal of poverty and women empowerment," the prime minister said.

Praising the Mar Thoma Church for its contributions to the country the Prime Minister added that it has worked to bring a positive difference in the lives of people in the country in areas of healthcare and education.

"The Mar Thoma Church is closely linked with the noble ideals of Saint Thomas, the Apostle of Lord Christ. India has always been open to spiritual influences from many sources. It is with this spirit of humility that the Mar Thoma Church has worked to bring a positive difference in the lives of our fellow Indians," Modi said.

Followers of the Mar Thoma Church from India and abroad participated in the programme through video conference.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that India fared much better than many other countries in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Delivering the inaugural address to mark the 90th birth anniversary celebrations of Reverend Dr Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Modi said "earlier this year, some people had predicted that the impact of the virus in India would be very severe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that India fared much better than many other countries in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Delivering the inaugural address to mark the 90th birth anniversary celebrations of Reverend Dr Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Modi said "earlier this year, some people had predicted that the impact of the virus in India would be very severe. Due to lockdown, many initiatives have been taken by the Government and in this people-driven fight, India is much better placed than many other nations. India`s recovery rate is rising," Modi said in his virtual address. Modi warned that the time was not apt to "let our guard down". The prime minister greeted the Mar Thoma Metropolitan and wished him "long life and best health." "Dr Joseph Mar Thoma has devoted his life for the betterment of our society and nation. He has been particularly passionate about the removal of poverty and women empowerment," the prime minister said. Praising the Mar Thoma Church for its contributions to the country the Prime Minister added that it has worked to bring a positive difference in the lives of people in the country in areas of healthcare and education. "The Mar Thoma Church is closely linked with the noble ideals of Saint Thomas, the Apostle of Lord Christ. India has always been open to spiritual influences from many sources. It is with this spirit of humility that the Mar Thoma Church has worked to bring a positive difference in the lives of our fellow Indians," Modi said. Followers of the Mar Thoma Church from India and abroad participated in the programme through video conference.

India much better placed than other countries in fight against COVID-19: PM Modi

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