<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (August 23) pressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to engage in talks with Russia to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. Modi assured that India is ready to act as a 'friend' to help end the war during his first visit to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We were not neutral from day one, we have taken a side, and we stand firmly for peace," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>In a joint statement made to the press, Modi said that his visit to Kyiv carried a message of peace. He encouraged both Russia and Ukraine to sit down for talks as soon as possible.</p>

<p>"The road to resolution can only be found through dialogue and diplomacy. And we should move in that direction without wasting any time. Both sides should sit together to find a way out of this crisis," the Indian PM&nbsp;said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-modi-begins-his-one-day-visit-to-war-torn-ukraine-752618">Indian PM Narendra Modi visits war-torn Ukraine, meets Zelensky</a></strong></p>

<p>"I want to assure you that India is ready to play an active role in any efforts towards peace. If I can play any role in this personally, I will do that I want to assure you as a friend," he added.</p>

<p>"Our approach are always people centric- I want to assure to the whole world that we stand for territorial integrity. While I was in Moscow - I told very clear that this is not time for war, any resolution can bring through dialogue, discussion not on war field. Both sides need to sit together and should find way for peace,"&nbsp;PM Modi said.</p>

<p>"This visit is very friendly and important for all Ukrainians,"&nbsp;Zelensky&nbsp;told&nbsp;reporters.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="uk">Ми також обговорювали поточний конфлікт. Надзвичайно важливо зберегти мир. Мирне вирішення конфлікту найкраще для людства. <a href="https://t.co/OwMR0CauxY">pic.twitter.com/OwMR0CauxY</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1826964054012801261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM)&nbsp;Dr S&nbsp;Jaishankar during a press briefing said, "PM Modi has invited Ukraine President Zelenskyy to visit India...We expect that as per his convenience President Zelenskyy will visit India."</p>

<p>"As you know, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kyiv this morning and we've just concluded his official engagements. This is a landmark visit. It's the first time that an Indian PM has visited Ukraine since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992," EAM said.</p>

<p>"PM arrived by a special train in the morning and he was received by the First Deputy Foreign Minister at the Kyiv railway station. He met the Indian community...His last engagement is going on right now, which is that he's meeting Ukrainian students who are studying Hindi," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (August 23) pressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to engage in talks with Russia to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (August 23) pressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to engage in talks with Russia to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine war. Modi assured that India is ready to act as a 'friend' to help end the war during his first visit to Ukraine. "We were not neutral from day one, we have taken a side, and we stand firmly for peace," PM Modi said. In a joint statement made to the press, Modi said that his visit to Kyiv carried a message of peace. He encouraged both Russia and Ukraine to sit down for talks as soon as possible. "The road to resolution can only be found through dialogue and diplomacy. And we should move in that direction without wasting any time. Both sides should sit together to find a way out of this crisis," the Indian PM said. Also read: Indian PM Narendra Modi visits war-torn Ukraine, meets Zelensky "I want to assure you that India is ready to play an active role in any efforts towards peace. If I can play any role in this personally, I will do that I want to assure you as a friend," he added. "Our approach are always people centric- I want to assure to the whole world that we stand for territorial integrity. While I was in Moscow - I told very clear that this is not time for war, any resolution can bring through dialogue, discussion not on war field. Both sides need to sit together and should find way for peace," PM Modi said. "This visit is very friendly and important for all Ukrainians," Zelensky told reporters. Ми також обговорювали поточний конфлікт. Надзвичайно важливо зберегти мир. Мирне вирішення конфлікту найкраще для людства. pic.twitter.com/OwMR0CauxY — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 23, 2024 × Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar during a press briefing said, "PM Modi has invited Ukraine President Zelenskyy to visit India...We expect that as per his convenience President Zelenskyy will visit India." "As you know, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kyiv this morning and we've just concluded his official engagements. This is a landmark visit. It's the first time that an Indian PM has visited Ukraine since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992," EAM said. "PM arrived by a special train in the morning and he was received by the First Deputy Foreign Minister at the Kyiv railway station. He met the Indian community...His last engagement is going on right now, which is that he's meeting Ukrainian students who are studying Hindi," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi presses Ukraine's Zelensky to pursue peace talks with Russia: 'India is ready to play an active role'

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<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his one-day visit to war-torn Ukraine on Friday (Aug 23).&nbsp;This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Modi's visit also comes as the war between Russia and Ukraine rages on.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Kyiv: PM Modi &amp; Ukraine President Zelenskyy honor the memory of children at Martyrologist Exposition <a href="https://t.co/4Sr5pBP8wD">pic.twitter.com/4Sr5pBP8wD</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1826906806582489503?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Visuals showed Prime Minister Modi's convoy arriving in Kyiv. He was also seen meeting the Indian diaspora in Ukraine amid chants of "Bharat Mata ki Jai."</p>

<h2><strong>Modi's agenda in Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Indian PM Modi's visit (to Ukraine)&nbsp;included a notable stop at the multimedia Martyrologist at the Ukraine National Museum. Here, Modi would honoured the memory of Ukrainian children, whose lives were taken by the full-scale Russian invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenksy was present at the museum.</p>

<p>Following his visit to the museum, Modi will pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi's statue at the A.V. Fomin Botanical Garden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi and Zelensky will be holding a restricted meeting to discuss key issues. High-level delegation meetings will follow, where important discussions on bilateral cooperation are expected.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reached Kyiv earlier this morning. The Indian community accorded a very warm welcome. <a href="https://t.co/oYEV71BTlv">pic.twitter.com/oYEV71BTlv</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1826875038684844205?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Document exchanges will take place to formalise agreements and collaborations between New Delhi and Kyiv.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Ukraine, West Asia conflicts are a deep matter of concern...'</strong></h2>

<p>Before arriving in Ukraine, Modi was in Poland where he said that the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia were "a matter of deep concern for all of us."</p>

<p>"India firmly believes that no problem can be solved on the battlefield. The loss of innocent lives in any crisis has become the biggest challenge for the entire humanity. We support dialogue and diplomacy for the early restoration of peace and stability," Modi said during a press joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his one-day visit to war-torn Ukraine on Friday (Aug 23). This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his one-day visit to war-torn Ukraine on Friday (Aug 23). This is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine since its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Modi's visit also comes as the war between Russia and Ukraine rages on. Kyiv: PM Modi & Ukraine President Zelenskyy honor the memory of children at Martyrologist Exposition pic.twitter.com/4Sr5pBP8wD — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 23, 2024 × Visuals showed Prime Minister Modi's convoy arriving in Kyiv. He was also seen meeting the Indian diaspora in Ukraine amid chants of "Bharat Mata ki Jai." Modi's agenda in Ukraine Indian PM Modi's visit (to Ukraine) included a notable stop at the multimedia Martyrologist at the Ukraine National Museum. Here, Modi would honoured the memory of Ukrainian children, whose lives were taken by the full-scale Russian invasion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenksy was present at the museum. Following his visit to the museum, Modi will pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi's statue at the A.V. Fomin Botanical Garden. Modi and Zelensky will be holding a restricted meeting to discuss key issues. High-level delegation meetings will follow, where important discussions on bilateral cooperation are expected. Reached Kyiv earlier this morning. The Indian community accorded a very warm welcome. pic.twitter.com/oYEV71BTlv — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 23, 2024 × Document exchanges will take place to formalise agreements and collaborations between New Delhi and Kyiv. 'Ukraine, West Asia conflicts are a deep matter of concern...' Before arriving in Ukraine, Modi was in Poland where he said that the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia were "a matter of deep concern for all of us." "India firmly believes that no problem can be solved on the battlefield. The loss of innocent lives in any crisis has become the biggest challenge for the entire humanity. We support dialogue and diplomacy for the early restoration of peace and stability," Modi said during a press joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

Indian PM Narendra Modi visits war-torn Ukraine, meets Zelensky

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated this is 'not an era of war' peace pitch for Ukraine while addressing a gathering of the members of the Indian diaspora in the Polish capital Warsaw.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bomb threat on an Air India flight triggered an emergency at Thiruvananthapuram airport.</p>

<p><strong>Click here to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-an-era-of-war-pm-modi-sets-ukraine-peace-pitch-from-polands-warsaw-752083"><strong>'Not an era of war': PM Modi repeats Ukraine peace pitch from Poland's Warsaw</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/22/450590-modiwarsaw.png?imwidth=400" /><br />
Ahead of his much-awaited and equally anticipated visit to Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (August 21) said that New Delhi is a supporter of peace in the region. The Indian leader reiterated his comment from the Samarkand SCO summit that "this is not an era of war" with a purported reference to the ongoing Russian offensive in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bomb-threat-on-air-india-flight-triggers-emergency-at-thiruvananthapuram-airport-752102"><strong>Bomb threat on Air India flight triggers emergency at Thiruvananthapuram airport</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/22/439354-air-india.png?imwidth=400" /><br />
A state of emergency was declared at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in southern India on Thursday (Aug 22) after a bomb threat was received on an Air India flight from Mumbai, news agency Press Trust of India reported while citing sources at the airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/millions-to-be-affected-as-delhi-ncr-auto-taxi-operators-launch-two-day-strike-752091"><strong>Millions to be affected as Delhi-NCR auto, taxi operators launch two-day strike</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/22/450594-delhiauto.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Millions of people in Delhi and the adjoining National Capital Region are set to face major transportation issues on August 22 and August 23 after autorickshaw and taxi driver unions announced they were going on strike in protest against app-based cab services, such as Ola and Uber.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Tim Walz formally accepted his nomination to be the Democratic Party's vice presidential candidate in a keynote address Wednesday (Aug 21), professing his love for his country.</p>

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Dalai Lama on Wednesday (Aug 21) met a Biden administration official in New York City as the India-based Tibetan spiritual leader continues with&nbsp;his effort for Tibetan self-rule decades after China took territorial control over 1.2 million sq km of landmass neighbouring India.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-need-to-rahul-dravid-reveals-odi-wc-chat-with-support-staff-before-indias-t20-wcs-triumph-752107"><strong>We need to...: Rahul Dravid reveals 'ODI WC' chat with support staff before India's T20 WC's triumph</strong></a></p>

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<p>Rahul Dravid opened up on the importance of creating and maintaining a vibrant team atmosphere that helped India during the home ODI World Cup last year. While Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue lost in the final, to Australia on Nov 19, the Dravid-led coaching staff continued to work tirelessly to carry&nbsp;forward the same energy during the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA, which resulted in Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s historic win.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hema-malini-gets-uncomfortable-as-woman-tries-to-hold-her-for-pics-watch-viral-clip-752094"><strong>Hema Malini gets uncomfortable as woman tries to hold her for pics; watch viral clip</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/22/450596-horizons-2024-08-22t084353937.jpg?imwidth=400" /><br />
It’s never easy being a public figure especially as a woman. Hema Malini encountered a rather uncomfortable situation when at an event, a woman came too close for comfort. While posing for pictures, Hema Malini was seen getting visibly disturbed as the&nbsp;woman placed a hand on her without her consent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated this is 'not an era of war' peace pitch for Ukraine while addressing a gathering of the members of the Indian diaspora in the Polish capital Warsaw.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated this is 'not an era of war' peace pitch for Ukraine while addressing a gathering of the members of the Indian diaspora in the Polish capital Warsaw. Bomb threat on an Air India flight triggered an emergency at Thiruvananthapuram airport. Click here to read more: 'Not an era of war': PM Modi repeats Ukraine peace pitch from Poland's Warsaw Ahead of his much-awaited and equally anticipated visit to Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (August 21) said that New Delhi is a supporter of peace in the region. The Indian leader reiterated his comment from the Samarkand SCO summit that "this is not an era of war" with a purported reference to the ongoing Russian offensive in Ukraine. Bomb threat on Air India flight triggers emergency at Thiruvananthapuram airport A state of emergency was declared at the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in southern India on Thursday (Aug 22) after a bomb threat was received on an Air India flight from Mumbai, news agency Press Trust of India reported while citing sources at the airport. Millions to be affected as Delhi-NCR auto, taxi operators launch two-day strike Millions of people in Delhi and the adjoining National Capital Region are set to face major transportation issues on August 22 and August 23 after autorickshaw and taxi driver unions announced they were going on strike in protest against app-based cab services, such as Ola and Uber. Tim Walz officially accepts nomination as VP at Democratic National Convention Tim Walz formally accepted his nomination to be the Democratic Party's vice presidential candidate in a keynote address Wednesday (Aug 21), professing his love for his country. US official meets Dalai Lama to discuss Chinese 'human rights abuses inside Tibet' Dalai Lama on Wednesday (Aug 21) met a Biden administration official in New York City as the India-based Tibetan spiritual leader continues with his effort for Tibetan self-rule decades after China took territorial control over 1.2 million sq km of landmass neighbouring India. Kolkata rape-murder case: SC set to resume hearing pleas, CBI to submit investigation report today × We need to...: Rahul Dravid reveals 'ODI WC' chat with support staff before India's T20 WC's triumph Rahul Dravid opened up on the importance of creating and maintaining a vibrant team atmosphere that helped India during the home ODI World Cup last year. While Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue lost in the final, to Australia on Nov 19, the Dravid-led coaching staff continued to work tirelessly to carry forward the same energy during the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA, which resulted in Rohit Sharma & Co.'s historic win. Hema Malini gets uncomfortable as woman tries to hold her for pics; watch viral clip It’s never easy being a public figure especially as a woman. Hema Malini encountered a rather uncomfortable situation when at an event, a woman came too close for comfort. While posing for pictures, Hema Malini was seen getting visibly disturbed as the woman placed a hand on her without her consent.

Morning brief: PM Modi's Ukraine peace pitch before Kyiv visit; Thiruvananthapuram airport emergency; and more

<p>Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sang the Indian movie song ''Dost dost na raha''&nbsp;sung by renowned singer Mukesh while bidding farewell in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Author-businessman Suhel Seth shared a post on X, praising the Malaysian PM's voice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"How heart-warming and what an enchanting farewell to @anwaribrahim: who has a lovely voice too! Well done," Suhel Seth stated.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How heart-warming and what an enchanting farewell to <a href="https://twitter.com/anwaribrahim?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anwaribrahim</a> : who has a lovely voice too! Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/TajMahalHotel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TajMahalHotel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TataCompanies?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TataCompanies</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TajHotels?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TajHotels</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/mKE5kkFnOy">pic.twitter.com/mKE5kkFnOy</a></p>
— SUHEL SETH (@Suhelseth) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suhelseth/status/1826593980257071311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Malaysian PM Ibrahim was on a state visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from August 19 to 21. It was his first visit to the South Asian region, where the two leaders discussed several areas that make India-Malaysia relations multi-layered and multi-faceted.</p>

<p>PM Ibrahim was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan; Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz; Minister of Tourism, Art &amp; Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing; Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo and Minister of Human Resources, Steven Sim.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Malaysian PM in India: Malaysian PM Ibrahim, PM Modi to sign several agreements</strong></p>

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<p>Upon arrival, he received a ceremonial welcome at the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 20.</p>

<p>Both noted with great satisfaction the deep routed ties of friendship and social-cultural linkages between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-malaysia-look-forward-to-boost-trade-defence-ties-751673"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India and Malaysia look forward to boost trade, defence ties</strong></a></p>

<p>They held discussions on the entire range of bilateral cooperation, including political, defence and security cooperation. They also signed MoUs on cooperation in the fields of Recruitment, Employment and Repatriation of Workers; Ayurveda and other Traditional Systems of Medicines; Digital Technologies; Culture, Arts and Heritage; Tourism; Public Administration and Governance Reforms; Youth and Sports; and Financial Services between Labuan Financial Services Authority (LFSA) and International Financial Services Centres Authority, India (IFSCA).</p>

<p>Malaysian PM Ibrahim thanked PM Modi for the hospitality and invited him to undertake a visit to Malaysia in the near future,</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sang the Indian movie song ''Dost dost na raha'' sung by renowned singer Mukesh while bidding farewell in Delhi. Author-businessman Suhel Seth shared a post on X, praising the Malaysian PM's voice.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim sang the Indian movie song ''Dost dost na raha'' sung by renowned singer Mukesh while bidding farewell in Delhi. Author-businessman Suhel Seth shared a post on X, praising the Malaysian PM's voice. "How heart-warming and what an enchanting farewell to @anwaribrahim: who has a lovely voice too! Well done," Suhel Seth stated. How heart-warming and what an enchanting farewell to @anwaribrahim : who has a lovely voice too! Well done @TajMahalHotel @TataCompanies @TajHotels @DrSJaishankar @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/mKE5kkFnOy — SUHEL SETH (@Suhelseth) August 22, 2024 × Malaysian PM Ibrahim was on a state visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from August 19 to 21. It was his first visit to the South Asian region, where the two leaders discussed several areas that make India-Malaysia relations multi-layered and multi-faceted. PM Ibrahim was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan; Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz; Minister of Tourism, Art & Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing; Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo and Minister of Human Resources, Steven Sim. Watch | Malaysian PM in India: Malaysian PM Ibrahim, PM Modi to sign several agreements × Upon arrival, he received a ceremonial welcome at the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan on August 20. Both noted with great satisfaction the deep routed ties of friendship and social-cultural linkages between the two nations. Also read: India and Malaysia look forward to boost trade, defence ties They held discussions on the entire range of bilateral cooperation, including political, defence and security cooperation. They also signed MoUs on cooperation in the fields of Recruitment, Employment and Repatriation of Workers; Ayurveda and other Traditional Systems of Medicines; Digital Technologies; Culture, Arts and Heritage; Tourism; Public Administration and Governance Reforms; Youth and Sports; and Financial Services between Labuan Financial Services Authority (LFSA) and International Financial Services Centres Authority, India (IFSCA). Malaysian PM Ibrahim thanked PM Modi for the hospitality and invited him to undertake a visit to Malaysia in the near future, (With inputs from agencies)

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim goes all Indian, sings Hindi song at his farewell in Delhi

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said no conflict could be resolved on a battlefield as he spoke in Poland on the eve of his historic visit to war-torn Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi will be the first Indian premier to make a Ukraine trip and is the first in 45 years to visit Poland, Kyiv's loyal ally that is a key transit for foreign leaders heading to its war-torn neighbour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian government has avoided explicit condemnations of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, instead urging both sides to resolve their differences through dialogue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is India's strong belief that no problem can be resolved on a battlefield," Modi said in Warsaw, adding his country supports "dialogue and diplomacy for restoration of peace and stability as soon as possible".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-an-era-of-war-pm-modi-sets-ukraine-peace-pitch-from-polands-warsaw-752083"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'Not an era of war': PM Modi repeats Ukraine peace pitch from Poland's Warsaw</strong></a></p>

<p>Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk welcomed Modi and his delegation at the seat of government, with flags of both countries hoisted outside the building and their anthems played by the military band.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"History has taught our nations the importance of respecting the rules, respecting borders, territorial integrity," Tusk said as he spoke to reporters alongside the Indian leader.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tusk also added that Modi "reaffirmed his willingness to commit himself personally to a peaceful, just, quick end to the war".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi in Poland: Why the visit is so significant</strong></p>

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<p>After the talks, Modi will lay a wreath at a war memorial in central Warsaw before heading for talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later on Thursday, the Indian leader is expected to leave the Polish capital to travel to neighbouring Ukraine for his first visit to the country fighting to stave off the Russian invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi has trodden a delicate balance between maintaining India's historically warm ties with Russia while courting closer security partnerships with Western nations as a bulwark against regional rival China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As a friend and partner, we hope for an early return of peace and stability in the region," Modi said in a statement published Wednesday before his departure for Poland. In Kyiv, Modi will hold talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and "share perspectives on peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Drastic expansion</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday, Modi commemorated an Indian maharaja who sheltered Polish children during World War II, laying flowers at the marble lotus-crowned monument erected in Warsaw in honour of the maharaja.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a little-known story linking the two nations, the maharaja hosted Polish children in what is now Gujarat, Modi's home state where he was chief minister before launching his national political career.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian leader announced a youth exchange programme named after the maharaja, under which 20 Polish young people would be invited to India each year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are finally starting to have the right level of political and diplomatic relations," Polish deputy foreign minister Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski said about the visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said Warsaw was counting on cooperation with India "in the agricultural sector, in the IT sector, in the security sector, in the new technology sector, especially green technology".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi on Wednesday delivered a speech in Hindi to the Indian community in Warsaw, promising "a drastic expansion of Indian economy in coming years".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He is expected to meet with Leszek Balcerowicz, a former Polish finance minister and free market pioneer who steered Poland's economic transition from communism to capitalism in the early 1990s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Indian Embassy, Modi will also meet captains of kabaddi teams,&nbsp;a tag-meets-rugby contact team sport rooted in Indian mythology and said to date back 5,000 years.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said no conflict could be resolved on a battlefield as he spoke in Poland on the eve of his historic visit to war-torn Ukraine.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said no conflict could be resolved on a battlefield as he spoke in Poland on the eve of his historic visit to war-torn Ukraine. Modi will be the first Indian premier to make a Ukraine trip and is the first in 45 years to visit Poland, Kyiv's loyal ally that is a key transit for foreign leaders heading to its war-torn neighbour. The Indian government has avoided explicit condemnations of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, instead urging both sides to resolve their differences through dialogue. "It is India's strong belief that no problem can be resolved on a battlefield," Modi said in Warsaw, adding his country supports "dialogue and diplomacy for restoration of peace and stability as soon as possible". Also read: 'Not an era of war': PM Modi repeats Ukraine peace pitch from Poland's Warsaw Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk welcomed Modi and his delegation at the seat of government, with flags of both countries hoisted outside the building and their anthems played by the military band. "History has taught our nations the importance of respecting the rules, respecting borders, territorial integrity," Tusk said as he spoke to reporters alongside the Indian leader. Tusk also added that Modi "reaffirmed his willingness to commit himself personally to a peaceful, just, quick end to the war". Watch | PM Modi in Poland: Why the visit is so significant × After the talks, Modi will lay a wreath at a war memorial in central Warsaw before heading for talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda. Later on Thursday, the Indian leader is expected to leave the Polish capital to travel to neighbouring Ukraine for his first visit to the country fighting to stave off the Russian invasion. Modi has trodden a delicate balance between maintaining India's historically warm ties with Russia while courting closer security partnerships with Western nations as a bulwark against regional rival China. "As a friend and partner, we hope for an early return of peace and stability in the region," Modi said in a statement published Wednesday before his departure for Poland. In Kyiv, Modi will hold talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and "share perspectives on peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict," the statement added. Drastic expansion On Wednesday, Modi commemorated an Indian maharaja who sheltered Polish children during World War II, laying flowers at the marble lotus-crowned monument erected in Warsaw in honour of the maharaja. In a little-known story linking the two nations, the maharaja hosted Polish children in what is now Gujarat, Modi's home state where he was chief minister before launching his national political career. The Indian leader announced a youth exchange programme named after the maharaja, under which 20 Polish young people would be invited to India each year. "We are finally starting to have the right level of political and diplomatic relations," Polish deputy foreign minister Wladyslaw Teofil Bartoszewski said about the visit. He said Warsaw was counting on cooperation with India "in the agricultural sector, in the IT sector, in the security sector, in the new technology sector, especially green technology". Modi on Wednesday delivered a speech in Hindi to the Indian community in Warsaw, promising "a drastic expansion of Indian economy in coming years". He is expected to meet with Leszek Balcerowicz, a former Polish finance minister and free market pioneer who steered Poland's economic transition from communism to capitalism in the early 1990s. According to the Indian Embassy, Modi will also meet captains of kabaddi teams, a tag-meets-rugby contact team sport rooted in Indian mythology and said to date back 5,000 years. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'No problem can be resolved on battlefield': PM Modi urges peace ahead of Ukraine visit

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday (Aug 22) in Warsaw that New Delhi was willing to offer any help to end the Ukraine conflict in consultation with friendly nations. He also reiterated that war can't be solution to any conflict and that diplomacy was the only way forward.</p>

<p>"India believes that war cannot be a solution to any conflict. We support dialogue and diplomacy," Modi said during a joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.</p>

<p>Ahead of his much-awaited and equally anticipated visit to Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier on Wednesday (August 21) said that New Delhi is a supporter of peace in the region. The Indian leader reiterated his comment from the Samarkand SCO summit that "this is not an era of war" with a purported reference to the ongoing Russian offensive in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the Indian diaspora in Poland's capital Warsaw, said that under his administration in New Delhi, India's policy preference is to remain close to all the countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-again-says-not-an-era-of-war-different-platform-but-same-plea-to-end-bloodshed-human-suffering-607589">PM Modi again says ‘this is not an era of war’, urges for end to ‘bloodshed, human suffering’</a></strong></p>

<p>"India is the land of Lord Buddha's legacy. Therefore, India is an advocate of permanent peace in this region. India's concept is clear - this is not an era of war... India believes in dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflict," Modi told the gathering.</p>

<p>"For decades, India's policy was to keep equal distance with all the countries but new India's policy is to keep proximity with all the countries," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the occasion to publicly thank the Polish government for coming to New Delhi's aid for the safe evacuation of Indian students in Ukraine during the initial few weeks of war in February-March 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;PM Modi’s Poland Visit: Indian PM Modi pays tributes at Monte Cassino battle monument</strong></p>

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<p>"You people helped the Indian students who were struck in Ukraine...you helped them a lot. Poland's government removed the visa restrictions for Indian students. Poland opened their doors to our students. Today I want to congratulate you all, Poland govt, and the people, on behalf of 140 crore Indians. I salute you all," PM Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reflecting on India's development trajectory during his years in power since 2014, PM Modi said that in the last decade, the number of broadband users has become more than 940 million, "which is the population of Europe and the USA put together". "Within two years, we made the 5G network reach every district in India. Now, we are working on 'Made in India' 6G network," PM Modi added.</p>

<p>"People equal to one-third&nbsp;population of Poland travel in metro every day (in India). India's contribution to global growth in 2023 was more than 16 per cent...India is not far from becoming the third biggest economy in the world.," he further said.</p>

<p>"India believes in Buddha’s tradition, therefore believes in peace not war...India is an advocate of peace in this region and it is clear that this is not time for war. We need to be together to fight challenges...India focuses on diplomacy and dialogue," PM Modi added.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday (Aug 22) in Warsaw that New Delhi was willing to offer any help to end the Ukraine conflict in consultation with friendly nations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Thursday (Aug 22) in Warsaw that New Delhi was willing to offer any help to end the Ukraine conflict in consultation with friendly nations. He also reiterated that war can't be solution to any conflict and that diplomacy was the only way forward. "India believes that war cannot be a solution to any conflict. We support dialogue and diplomacy," Modi said during a joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Ahead of his much-awaited and equally anticipated visit to Ukraine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier on Wednesday (August 21) said that New Delhi is a supporter of peace in the region. The Indian leader reiterated his comment from the Samarkand SCO summit that "this is not an era of war" with a purported reference to the ongoing Russian offensive in Ukraine. Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the Indian diaspora in Poland's capital Warsaw, said that under his administration in New Delhi, India's policy preference is to remain close to all the countries. Also read | PM Modi again says ‘this is not an era of war’, urges for end to ‘bloodshed, human suffering’ "India is the land of Lord Buddha's legacy. Therefore, India is an advocate of permanent peace in this region. India's concept is clear - this is not an era of war... India believes in dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflict," Modi told the gathering. "For decades, India's policy was to keep equal distance with all the countries but new India's policy is to keep proximity with all the countries," PM Modi said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the occasion to publicly thank the Polish government for coming to New Delhi's aid for the safe evacuation of Indian students in Ukraine during the initial few weeks of war in February-March 2022. Also watch | PM Modi’s Poland Visit: Indian PM Modi pays tributes at Monte Cassino battle monument × "You people helped the Indian students who were struck in Ukraine...you helped them a lot. Poland's government removed the visa restrictions for Indian students. Poland opened their doors to our students. Today I want to congratulate you all, Poland govt, and the people, on behalf of 140 crore Indians. I salute you all," PM Modi said. Reflecting on India's development trajectory during his years in power since 2014, PM Modi said that in the last decade, the number of broadband users has become more than 940 million, "which is the population of Europe and the USA put together". "Within two years, we made the 5G network reach every district in India. Now, we are working on 'Made in India' 6G network," PM Modi added. "People equal to one-third population of Poland travel in metro every day (in India). India's contribution to global growth in 2023 was more than 16 per cent...India is not far from becoming the third biggest economy in the world.," he further said. "India believes in Buddha’s tradition, therefore believes in peace not war...India is an advocate of peace in this region and it is clear that this is not time for war. We need to be together to fight challenges...India focuses on diplomacy and dialogue," PM Modi added.

'Not an era of war': PM Modi repeats Ukraine peace pitch from Poland's Warsaw

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who left for a two-nation visit on Wednesday (Aug 21), said he will share perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi has embarked on a visit to Poland and Ukraine&nbsp;signaling India’s efforts to strengthen relations with the two countries.</p>

<p>In a post on X, PM Modi said that his visit to Kyiv will be an opportunity to build on the earlier discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and deepen the India-Ukraine friendship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further emphasising the friendship between the two nations, he said that India hopes for an early return of peace and stability in the region as a friend and partner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his visit, PM Modi is expected to travel from Poland to Ukraine on the overnight train, "Rail Force One". He will be in Kyiv for around seven hours, with nearly 20 hours spent on the train.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, this same train has ferried several world leaders in the past, including US President Joe Biden, and French President Emmanuel Macron.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I will be visiting Ukraine at the invitation of President @ZelenskyyUa. This visit will be an opportunity to build on the earlier discussions with him and deepening the India-Ukraine friendship. We will also share perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. As a friend and partner, we hope for an early return of peace and stability in the region", PM Modi shared on X.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I will be visiting Ukraine at the invitation of President <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZelenskyyUa</a>. This visit will be an opportunity to build on the earlier discussions with him and deepening the India-Ukraine friendship. We will also share perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine…</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1826107039300374751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-pm-modi-to-travel-to-ukraine-to-meet-ukrainian-president-zelensky-on-aug-23-751539"><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: PM Modi to travel to Ukraine to meet Ukrainian President Zelensky on Aug 23</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi embarks visit to Poland</strong></h2>

<p>PM Narendra Modi in his departure statement ahead of his visit to Poland, emphasised that Poland is a key economic partner in Central Europe, adding that he will be meeting Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Andrzej Duda to further advance the India-Poland partnership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Expressing confidence, PM Modi stated that the visit will serve as a natural continuation of extensive contacts with the two countries and help create the foundation for stronger and more vibrant relations in the years ahead.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-to-visit-ukraine-in-august-744593">Also read:&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August</a></strong></p>

<p>In another post on X, PM Modi noted that the Poland visit comes at a special time when we are marking 70 years of diplomatic ties between our nations.</p>

<p>PM Modi will also pay homage to the Indian soldiers at a memorial in Warsaw and is also expected to engage with the members of the vibrant Indian community in Poland.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who left for a two-nation visit on Wednesday (Aug 21), said he will share perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who left for a two-nation visit on Wednesday (Aug 21), said he will share perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. PM Modi has embarked on a visit to Poland and Ukraine signaling India’s efforts to strengthen relations with the two countries. In a post on X, PM Modi said that his visit to Kyiv will be an opportunity to build on the earlier discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and deepen the India-Ukraine friendship. Further emphasising the friendship between the two nations, he said that India hopes for an early return of peace and stability in the region as a friend and partner. During his visit, PM Modi is expected to travel from Poland to Ukraine on the overnight train, "Rail Force One". He will be in Kyiv for around seven hours, with nearly 20 hours spent on the train. Moreover, this same train has ferried several world leaders in the past, including US President Joe Biden, and French President Emmanuel Macron. "I will be visiting Ukraine at the invitation of President @ZelenskyyUa. This visit will be an opportunity to build on the earlier discussions with him and deepening the India-Ukraine friendship. We will also share perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine conflict. As a friend and partner, we hope for an early return of peace and stability in the region", PM Modi shared on X. I will be visiting Ukraine at the invitation of President @ZelenskyyUa. This visit will be an opportunity to build on the earlier discussions with him and deepening the India-Ukraine friendship. We will also share perspectives on the peaceful resolution of the ongoing Ukraine… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 21, 2024 × Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: PM Modi to travel to Ukraine to meet Ukrainian President Zelensky on Aug 23 × PM Modi embarks visit to Poland PM Narendra Modi in his departure statement ahead of his visit to Poland, emphasised that Poland is a key economic partner in Central Europe, adding that he will be meeting Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Andrzej Duda to further advance the India-Poland partnership. Expressing confidence, PM Modi stated that the visit will serve as a natural continuation of extensive contacts with the two countries and help create the foundation for stronger and more vibrant relations in the years ahead. Also read: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August In another post on X, PM Modi noted that the Poland visit comes at a special time when we are marking 70 years of diplomatic ties between our nations. PM Modi will also pay homage to the Indian soldiers at a memorial in Warsaw and is also expected to engage with the members of the vibrant Indian community in Poland. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to discuss peaceful resolution of Russia-Ukraine conflict during Kyiv visit

<p>Prime ministers of India and Malaysia sought to reset relations between the two countries on Tuesday as they agreed to boost trade, movement of workers and the use of their own currencies to settle bilateral transactions.</p>

<p>Malaysia is home to nearly 3 million people of Indian heritage, but relations soured around late 2019 following remarks by largely Muslim Malaysia's then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad against New Delhi removing the autonomy of India's only Muslim-majority region Kashmir.</p>

<p>That had also hit purchases of Malaysian palm oil by India, the world's biggest buyer of edible oils like palm.</p>

<p>But the Malaysian approach has changed under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who took office in 2022 and previously told Reuters he was keen to have good ties with India.</p>

<p>The two countries started settling trade in their own rupee and ringgit currencies in April last year, and India's palm oil imports from Malaysia has also increased.</p>

<p>"With the support of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, there has been a new momentum and energy in our partnership," Modi said, as Anwar stood by his side during his first visit to New Delhi as prime minister.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-governments-cancels-lateral-entry-amid-mass-protest-from-opposition-751572">Indian government's U-turn on lateral entry: Asks UPSC to cancel advertisement</a></strong></p>

<p>"Today we have decided that our partnership will be elevated to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership'. We believe that there is still a lot of potential in economic cooperation. Bilateral trade and investment should be expanded."</p>

<p>Modi noted that Malaysia had invested $5 billion in India in the past year and identified semiconductors, financial technology, the defence industry and artificial intelligence as areas of possible cooperation.</p>

<p>Anwar said his country would reinvigorate relations with India in all fields and that their potential had not been tapped in the past few years.</p>

<p>Indian foreign ministry official Jaideep Mazumdar told a press conference the country would make a one-off export of 200,000 metric tons of non-basmati rice to Malaysia, making an exception to a ban on such shipments.</p>

<p>Mazumdar said India is also keen to sell defence equipment to Malaysia, as well as aircraft manufactured by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.</p>

<p>The two countries also agreed a framework for the welfare of Indian workers going to Malaysia, which sources labour from some 15 countries including India for its palm plantations and other industries.</p>

<p>There are already some 140,000 Indian workers in Malaysia, the highest ever, and this total could rise as India seeks job opportunities for people at home and abroad</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Prime ministers of India and Malaysia sought to reset relations between the two countries on Tuesday as they agreed to boost trade, movement of workers and the use of their own currencies to settle bilateral transactions.

Prime ministers of India and Malaysia sought to reset relations between the two countries on Tuesday as they agreed to boost trade, movement of workers and the use of their own currencies to settle bilateral transactions. Malaysia is home to nearly 3 million people of Indian heritage, but relations soured around late 2019 following remarks by largely Muslim Malaysia's then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad against New Delhi removing the autonomy of India's only Muslim-majority region Kashmir. That had also hit purchases of Malaysian palm oil by India, the world's biggest buyer of edible oils like palm. But the Malaysian approach has changed under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who took office in 2022 and previously told Reuters he was keen to have good ties with India. The two countries started settling trade in their own rupee and ringgit currencies in April last year, and India's palm oil imports from Malaysia has also increased. "With the support of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, there has been a new momentum and energy in our partnership," Modi said, as Anwar stood by his side during his first visit to New Delhi as prime minister. Also Read | Indian government's U-turn on lateral entry: Asks UPSC to cancel advertisement "Today we have decided that our partnership will be elevated to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership'. We believe that there is still a lot of potential in economic cooperation. Bilateral trade and investment should be expanded." Modi noted that Malaysia had invested $5 billion in India in the past year and identified semiconductors, financial technology, the defence industry and artificial intelligence as areas of possible cooperation. Anwar said his country would reinvigorate relations with India in all fields and that their potential had not been tapped in the past few years. Indian foreign ministry official Jaideep Mazumdar told a press conference the country would make a one-off export of 200,000 metric tons of non-basmati rice to Malaysia, making an exception to a ban on such shipments. Mazumdar said India is also keen to sell defence equipment to Malaysia, as well as aircraft manufactured by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. The two countries also agreed a framework for the welfare of Indian workers going to Malaysia, which sources labour from some 15 countries including India for its palm plantations and other industries. There are already some 140,000 Indian workers in Malaysia, the highest ever, and this total could rise as India seeks job opportunities for people at home and abroad Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India and Malaysia look forward to boost trade, defence ties

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted quickly to ace shuttler Lakshya Sen’s remarks on his coach (Prakash Padukone at the Paris Games 2024) during a recent chat with the Paris Olympics-bound Indian contingent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Padukone, a former badminton veteran, was critical of Lakshya and other players for failing to win the clutch moments during the 2024 Summer Games, with the young shuttler also revealing that the coach took away his phone during the Olympics to reduce distraction.</p>

<p>Lakshya was a certain medal hope for India at the Paris Olympics, but after he lost from the positions he was in - in the semis (against the defending champion Viktor Axelsen) and the bronze medal match against Lee Zii Jia, brought sheer disappointment to him and millions watching on TV worldwide.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-%E2%80%98there-is-no-truth%E2%80%99---manu-bhaker-rubbishes-rumours-of-%E2%80%98potential-relationship%E2%80%99-with-neeraj-chopra-750665">‘There is no truth...’ - Manu Bhaker rubbishes rumours of ‘potential relationship’ with Neeraj Chopra</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite his failed campaign, where he returned home empty-handed, Lakshya earned quite a name, with countless fans back home applauding the shuttler for his lion-hearted effort at the Games.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on the same lines, PM Modi first asked Lakshya, “Do you know you have become a celebrity now?”&nbsp;</p>

<p>To which Lakshya replied, “Matches ke time phone Prakash sir ne liya tha aur bola ki matches ke baad hi milega (Prakash sir took away my phone… said won’t get back till matches are done).”&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi quickly replied, “If Prakash sir is so strict, we will send him next time too.”</p>

<p>Meanwhile, speaking on his performance at the Games, Lakshya admitted the results were heartbreaking, but he learned his lessons, and come the next Olympics (LA28), he vows to go one step ahead and win an Olympic medal.</p>

<p>“It was a good learning experience for me. It was heartbreaking as well, I was so close to win a medal. But I will make sure that I will do well in the future,” Lakshya said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Honoured to meet our respected Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji on Independence Day! His words of encouragement fuel our passion to make India proud. Grateful for the opportunity to present my racket from Paris Olympic Games. A day to remember with fellow Olympians who have made… <a href="https://t.co/gCam6DDIXv">pic.twitter.com/gCam6DDIXv</a></p>
— Lakshya Sen (@lakshya_sen) <a href="https://twitter.com/lakshya_sen/status/1824081694732726673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Prakash Padukone critical of players</strong></h2>

<p>Shortly after Lakshya’s bronze medal match, which he lost despite leading the first game, his coach Padukone said the government and the federations are doing enough for the athletes and that it boils down to the players to get the job done on D-day.</p>

<p>“Maybe, you know, the players are not working hard enough. Maybe, it is not enough to get a medal at the Olympics. So you (players) need to work also,” Padukone said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked if pampering has affected the players’ hunger, Prakash said, “Maybe, to some extent. That (pampering) is also required. I hope the players also realise… when you ask for certain things, they also need to deliver. If they don’t deliver, then I think you need to be a little firm. Maybe the federation or the government can be. Let’s be frank.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted quickly to ace shuttler Lakshya Sen’s remarks on his coach (Prakash Padukone at the Paris Games 2024) during a recent chat with the Paris Olympics-bound Indian contingent.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted quickly to ace shuttler Lakshya Sen’s remarks on his coach (Prakash Padukone at the Paris Games 2024) during a recent chat with the Paris Olympics-bound Indian contingent. Padukone, a former badminton veteran, was critical of Lakshya and other players for failing to win the clutch moments during the 2024 Summer Games, with the young shuttler also revealing that the coach took away his phone during the Olympics to reduce distraction. Lakshya was a certain medal hope for India at the Paris Olympics, but after he lost from the positions he was in - in the semis (against the defending champion Viktor Axelsen) and the bronze medal match against Lee Zii Jia, brought sheer disappointment to him and millions watching on TV worldwide. ALSO READ: ‘There is no truth...’ - Manu Bhaker rubbishes rumours of ‘potential relationship’ with Neeraj Chopra Despite his failed campaign, where he returned home empty-handed, Lakshya earned quite a name, with countless fans back home applauding the shuttler for his lion-hearted effort at the Games. Speaking on the same lines, PM Modi first asked Lakshya, “Do you know you have become a celebrity now?” To which Lakshya replied, “Matches ke time phone Prakash sir ne liya tha aur bola ki matches ke baad hi milega (Prakash sir took away my phone… said won’t get back till matches are done).” PM Modi quickly replied, “If Prakash sir is so strict, we will send him next time too.” Meanwhile, speaking on his performance at the Games, Lakshya admitted the results were heartbreaking, but he learned his lessons, and come the next Olympics (LA28), he vows to go one step ahead and win an Olympic medal. “It was a good learning experience for me. It was heartbreaking as well, I was so close to win a medal. But I will make sure that I will do well in the future,” Lakshya said. Honoured to meet our respected Prime Minister @narendramodi ji on Independence Day! His words of encouragement fuel our passion to make India proud. Grateful for the opportunity to present my racket from Paris Olympic Games. A day to remember with fellow Olympians who have made… pic.twitter.com/gCam6DDIXv — Lakshya Sen (@lakshya_sen) August 15, 2024 × Prakash Padukone critical of players Shortly after Lakshya’s bronze medal match, which he lost despite leading the first game, his coach Padukone said the government and the federations are doing enough for the athletes and that it boils down to the players to get the job done on D-day. “Maybe, you know, the players are not working hard enough. Maybe, it is not enough to get a medal at the Olympics. So you (players) need to work also,” Padukone said. When asked if pampering has affected the players’ hunger, Prakash said, “Maybe, to some extent. That (pampering) is also required. I hope the players also realise… when you ask for certain things, they also need to deliver. If they don’t deliver, then I think you need to be a little firm. Maybe the federation or the government can be. Let’s be frank.” (With inputs from agencies)

Paris Olympics: PM Modi’s response to Lakshya Sen’s remarks on his coach - ‘If Prakash sir is so strict...’

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<p>India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on Thursday (August 15), and as per tradition, the nation's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed&nbsp;the country from the ramparts of the famous Red Fort. This marked&nbsp;his 11th consecutive Independence Day address.</p>

<p>In his speech, he touched on various topics of national importance, including the Bangladesh crisis, frequent natural disasters, Viksit Bharat, and women's safety. Here are some highlights from the Prime Minister's address:</p>

<h2><strong>Natural disasters</strong></h2>

<p>"This year and for the past few years, due to natural calamity, our concerns have been mounting. Several people have lost their family members, and property in natural calamity; the nation too has suffered losses. Today, I express my sympathy to all of them and assure them that this nation stands with them in this hour of crisis," PM Modi said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-2024-live-pm-modi-hoists-the-tiranga-at-red-fort-750244">Independence Day 2024: PM Modi expresses concern over Bangladesh unrest</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Women&nbsp;empowerment and safety</strong></h2>

<p>"In last 10 years, 10 crore women joined women self-help groups. 10 crore women are becoming financially independent. When women become financially independent they become part of the decision-making system in a household leading to social change...Till now, 9 lakh crores have been given to self-help groups in the country," PM said.</p>

<p>"For working women, maternity leave has been increased from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. We not only just respect women, we not only take decisions for her sensitively, we make decisions to ensure that the government does not become a hindrance in the requirements of the mother to make her child a quality citizen," he continued.</p>

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<p>PM Modi also spoke on the matter of women&nbsp;safety amid the ongoing Kolkata rape case. "...I would like to express my pain once again, from the Red Fort today. As a society, we will have to think seriously about the atrocities against women that are happening - there is outrage against this in the country. I can feel this outrage. The country, society, and State Governments will have to take this seriously. Speedy investigation of crimes against women, those executing these monstrous deeds be awarded strict punishment at the earliest - this is important to instil confidence in society," he said.</p>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-it-is-indias-dream-to-host-2036-olympics-says-pm-modi-during-independence-day-speech-750294">It is India's dream to host 2036 Olympics: PM Modi during I-Day speech</a></strong></p>

<p>"I would also like to say that when rapes and incidents of atrocities on women occur, it is widely discussed. But when a person of such monstrous tendency is punished, it is not seen in news but restricted to a corner. It is the need of the hour, that extensive discussion on those receiving punishment be held so that those committing this sin understand that this leads to hanging. I think it is very important to instil this fear," the PM added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Space is important'</strong></h2>

<p>"The space sector is an important aspect. We have done many reforms in this sector. Today, many startups are entering this sector. The space sector which is becoming vibrant is an essential element towards making India a powerful nation. We are focusing and giving strength to this sector with a long-term idea."</p>

<h2><strong>Idea of 'Viksit Bharat'</strong></h2>

<p>"For Viksit Bharat 2047, we invited suggestions from the countrymen. The many suggestions we received reflect the dreams and aspirations of our citizens. Some people suggested making India the skill capital, some others said that India should be made a manufacturing hub and the country must become self-reliant," said PM Modi.</p>

<p>"Reforms in governance and justice system, creation of greenfield cities, capacity building, India’s space station - these are the aspirations of the citizens….When the people of the nation have such big dreams, it takes our self-confidence to newer heights and we become more resolute," the Indian Prime Minister added.</p>

<h2><strong>Bangladesh unrest</strong></h2>

<p>"As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. The concerns of 140 crore countrymen to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities there - India always wants our neighbouring countries to walk the path of prosperity and peace. We are committed to peace...In the days to come, we will continue to wish well for Bangladesh in its 'Vikas Yatra' because we think about the welfare of humankind."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/current-civil-code-is-discriminatory-pm-modi-bats-for-secular-ucc-from-red-fort-750280">'Current civil code is...': PM Modi bats for secular UCC from Red Fort</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Need for a Secular Civil Code in the country</strong></h2>

<p>PM Narendra Modi said, "Supreme Court has held discussions regarding the Uniform Civil Code again and again, it has given orders several times. A large section of the country believes - and it is true, that the Civil Code that we are living with is a Communal Civil Code in a way...I would say that it is the need of the hour that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country...only then would we be free of discrimination based on religion..."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on Thursday (August 15), and as per tradition, the nation's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the country from the ramparts of the famous Red Fort.

India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on Thursday (August 15), and as per tradition, the nation's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the country from the ramparts of the famous Red Fort. This marked his 11th consecutive Independence Day address. In his speech, he touched on various topics of national importance, including the Bangladesh crisis, frequent natural disasters, Viksit Bharat, and women's safety. Here are some highlights from the Prime Minister's address: Natural disasters "This year and for the past few years, due to natural calamity, our concerns have been mounting. Several people have lost their family members, and property in natural calamity; the nation too has suffered losses. Today, I express my sympathy to all of them and assure them that this nation stands with them in this hour of crisis," PM Modi said. Also read: Independence Day 2024: PM Modi expresses concern over Bangladesh unrest Women empowerment and safety "In last 10 years, 10 crore women joined women self-help groups. 10 crore women are becoming financially independent. When women become financially independent they become part of the decision-making system in a household leading to social change...Till now, 9 lakh crores have been given to self-help groups in the country," PM said. "For working women, maternity leave has been increased from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. We not only just respect women, we not only take decisions for her sensitively, we make decisions to ensure that the government does not become a hindrance in the requirements of the mother to make her child a quality citizen," he continued. × PM Modi also spoke on the matter of women safety amid the ongoing Kolkata rape case. "...I would like to express my pain once again, from the Red Fort today. As a society, we will have to think seriously about the atrocities against women that are happening - there is outrage against this in the country. I can feel this outrage. The country, society, and State Governments will have to take this seriously. Speedy investigation of crimes against women, those executing these monstrous deeds be awarded strict punishment at the earliest - this is important to instil confidence in society," he said. Also read: It is India's dream to host 2036 Olympics: PM Modi during I-Day speech "I would also like to say that when rapes and incidents of atrocities on women occur, it is widely discussed. But when a person of such monstrous tendency is punished, it is not seen in news but restricted to a corner. It is the need of the hour, that extensive discussion on those receiving punishment be held so that those committing this sin understand that this leads to hanging. I think it is very important to instil this fear," the PM added. 'Space is important' "The space sector is an important aspect. We have done many reforms in this sector. Today, many startups are entering this sector. The space sector which is becoming vibrant is an essential element towards making India a powerful nation. We are focusing and giving strength to this sector with a long-term idea." Idea of 'Viksit Bharat' "For Viksit Bharat 2047, we invited suggestions from the countrymen. The many suggestions we received reflect the dreams and aspirations of our citizens. Some people suggested making India the skill capital, some others said that India should be made a manufacturing hub and the country must become self-reliant," said PM Modi. "Reforms in governance and justice system, creation of greenfield cities, capacity building, India’s space station - these are the aspirations of the citizens….When the people of the nation have such big dreams, it takes our self-confidence to newer heights and we become more resolute," the Indian Prime Minister added. Bangladesh unrest "As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. The concerns of 140 crore countrymen to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities there - India always wants our neighbouring countries to walk the path of prosperity and peace. We are committed to peace...In the days to come, we will continue to wish well for Bangladesh in its 'Vikas Yatra' because we think about the welfare of humankind." Also read: 'Current civil code is...': PM Modi bats for secular UCC from Red Fort Need for a Secular Civil Code in the country PM Narendra Modi said, "Supreme Court has held discussions regarding the Uniform Civil Code again and again, it has given orders several times. A large section of the country believes - and it is true, that the Civil Code that we are living with is a Communal Civil Code in a way...I would say that it is the need of the hour that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country...only then would we be free of discrimination based on religion..." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi's Independence day speech highlights: Women's safety, Bangladesh crisis, and more

<p><strong>Independence Day 2024:</strong> India is marking its 78th Independence Day, and as part of the annual tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and gave his 11th consecutive address to the nation from the Red Fort on Thursday (August 15).</p>

<p>Congratulations are pouring in from around the world, with leaders congratulating&nbsp;the people of India and looking to strengthen diplomatic ties with the South Asian nation. Here are the world leaders who joined in India's 78th Independence Day celebrations by sending their best wishes.</p>

<h2><strong>1. Nepal: KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal</strong></h2>

<p>Nepali PM wrote on X, "Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Shri&nbsp;@narendramodi&nbsp;ji and the people of India on 78th Independence Day!&nbsp;May this day strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations. Looking forward to advancing Nepal-India relations. #IndependenceDayIndia"</p>

<h2>2. Maldives: President&nbsp;Mohamed Muizzu</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a>, Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, and the people of 🇮🇳. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the… <a href="https://t.co/HCtYMG0VLa">pic.twitter.com/HCtYMG0VLa</a></p>
— Dr Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu) <a href="https://twitter.com/MMuizzu/status/1823922349781213666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President&nbsp;@rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister&nbsp;@narendramodi, and the people of India. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the region. As we look to the future, I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen, driving mutual prosperity and shared goals,"&nbsp;Maldivian President&nbsp;Mohamed Muizzu wrote on X.</p>

<h2>3. Maldives:&nbsp;Maldivian Democratic Party President Abdullah Shahid</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Independence Day <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> 🇮🇳!<br />
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I wish Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a>, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion.<br />
<br />
India has proved to be an “all weather” friend of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maldives</a>. Our first and… <a href="https://t.co/4UkkSS9G6h">pic.twitter.com/4UkkSS9G6h</a></p>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1823908114464432536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Happy Independence Day India! I wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi, EAM Dr S Jaishankar, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion. &nbsp;India has proved to be an “all-weather” friend of the Maldives. Our first and best responder for any crisis we have faced. An invaluable partner in our development journey. The people of Maldives continue to benefit from the generous development assistance and human resource development, and deeply cherish this relationship,"&nbsp;Former Foreign Minsiter of Maldives Abdullah Shahid&nbsp;wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>4. Bhutan: Prime Minister&nbsp;Tshering Tobgay</strong></h2>

<p>"Wishing the government and people of India a very happy Independence Day! May the special friendship between Bhutan and India grow ever stronger.&nbsp;@narendramodi @PMOIndia,"&nbsp;Tobgay wrote on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you for the Independence Day wishes, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/tsheringtobgay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tsheringtobgay</a>. <a href="https://t.co/OvMI09Vwj1">https://t.co/OvMI09Vwj1</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1823961833725665772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>5. France: French&nbsp;President&nbsp;Emmanuel Macron</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I thank my good friend, President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> for the wishes on our Independence Day. I too fondly recall not only his India visit but also our various interactions, which have added great strength to the India-France partnership. We will keep working together to further… <a href="https://t.co/mPLwNQRkOZ">https://t.co/mPLwNQRkOZ</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1823977886673469455?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Congratulations to the Indian people on your 78th Independence Day! I remember your warm welcome during my visit to India in January and look forward to working with my friend @NarendraModi on achieving the ambitious goals we have set for our strategic partnership," Macron wrote on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Independence Day 2024: India is marking its 78th Independence Day, and as part of the annual tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and gave his 11th consecutive address to the nation from the Red Fort on Thursday (August 15).

Independence Day 2024: India is marking its 78th Independence Day, and as part of the annual tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and gave his 11th consecutive address to the nation from the Red Fort on Thursday (August 15). Congratulations are pouring in from around the world, with leaders congratulating the people of India and looking to strengthen diplomatic ties with the South Asian nation. Here are the world leaders who joined in India's 78th Independence Day celebrations by sending their best wishes. 1. Nepal: KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal Nepali PM wrote on X, "Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji and the people of India on 78th Independence Day! May this day strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations. Looking forward to advancing Nepal-India relations. #IndependenceDayIndia" 2. Maldives: President Mohamed Muizzu On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President @rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister @narendramodi, and the people of 🇮🇳. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the… pic.twitter.com/HCtYMG0VLa — Dr Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu) August 15, 2024 × "On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President @rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister @narendramodi, and the people of India. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the region. As we look to the future, I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen, driving mutual prosperity and shared goals," Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu wrote on X. 3. Maldives: Maldivian Democratic Party President Abdullah Shahid Happy Independence Day #India 🇮🇳! I wish Prime Minister @narendramodi, EAM @DrSJaishankar, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion. India has proved to be an “all weather” friend of the #Maldives. Our first and… pic.twitter.com/4UkkSS9G6h — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) August 15, 2024 × "Happy Independence Day India! I wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi, EAM Dr S Jaishankar, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion. India has proved to be an “all-weather” friend of the Maldives. Our first and best responder for any crisis we have faced. An invaluable partner in our development journey. The people of Maldives continue to benefit from the generous development assistance and human resource development, and deeply cherish this relationship," Former Foreign Minsiter of Maldives Abdullah Shahid wrote on X. 4. Bhutan: Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay "Wishing the government and people of India a very happy Independence Day! May the special friendship between Bhutan and India grow ever stronger. @narendramodi @PMOIndia," Tobgay wrote on X. Thank you for the Independence Day wishes, PM @tsheringtobgay. https://t.co/OvMI09Vwj1 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2024 × 5. France: French President Emmanuel Macron I thank my good friend, President @EmmanuelMacron for the wishes on our Independence Day. I too fondly recall not only his India visit but also our various interactions, which have added great strength to the India-France partnership. We will keep working together to further… https://t.co/mPLwNQRkOZ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2024 × "Congratulations to the Indian people on your 78th Independence Day! I remember your warm welcome during my visit to India in January and look forward to working with my friend @NarendraModi on achieving the ambitious goals we have set for our strategic partnership," Macron wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Independence Day 2024: World leaders send I-day wishes to PM Modi

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Foxconn Chairman Young Liu to discuss the latter's investment plans on Wednesday, weeks after New Delhi started investigating possible discriminatory hiring practices at a Foxconn plant following a Reuters report.</p>

<p>Modi "highlighted the wonderful opportunities India offers in futuristic sectors" to Liu at the meeting, he said in a post on X that included photos of the pair.</p>

<p>"We also had excellent discussions on their investment plans in India in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh," Modi wrote.</p>

<p>Modi sees Foxconn's iPhone factory in India and Apple's expansion of its supply chain in the South Asian nation, beyond China, as potentially helping the world's most populous country move up the economic-value chain.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foxconn-factory-in-india-accused-of-denying-jobs-to-married-women-735256">Foxconn factory in India accused of denying jobs to married women: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>A Reuters investigation published in June found that Foxconn excluded married women from assembly jobs at its main Indian iPhone plant in Tamil Nadu state. Foxconn acknowledged some lapses in hiring practices in 2022 and said it had worked to address the issues, but said it "vigorously refutes allegations of employment discrimination."</p>

<p>Taiwan's Foxconn in recent years has expanded in India, where it makes iPhones and products for other smartphone brands, and has plans to move into AirPods and chipmaking.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Foxconn discriminating against married women in India?</strong></p>

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<p>Still, Foxconn withdrew in July last year from a $19.5 billion semiconductor joint venture with Indian conglomerate Vedanta, in a setback to Modi's chipmaking plans for India.</p>

<p>Modi's government ordered Tamil Nadu to provide a "detailed report" and government officials visited the Foxconn factory to question executives about hiring practices, but New Delhi has not yet released any findings.</p>

<p>Modi's post on X on Wednesday did not address any of those issues and the prime minister's office did not immediately respond to an email seeking details about the talks.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Foxconn Chairman Young Liu to discuss the latter's investment plans on Wednesday, weeks after New Delhi started investigating possible discriminatory hiring practices at a Foxconn plant following a Reuters report.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Foxconn Chairman Young Liu to discuss the latter's investment plans on Wednesday, weeks after New Delhi started investigating possible discriminatory hiring practices at a Foxconn plant following a Reuters report. Modi "highlighted the wonderful opportunities India offers in futuristic sectors" to Liu at the meeting, he said in a post on X that included photos of the pair. "We also had excellent discussions on their investment plans in India in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh," Modi wrote. Modi sees Foxconn's iPhone factory in India and Apple's expansion of its supply chain in the South Asian nation, beyond China, as potentially helping the world's most populous country move up the economic-value chain. Also read | Foxconn factory in India accused of denying jobs to married women: Report A Reuters investigation published in June found that Foxconn excluded married women from assembly jobs at its main Indian iPhone plant in Tamil Nadu state. Foxconn acknowledged some lapses in hiring practices in 2022 and said it had worked to address the issues, but said it "vigorously refutes allegations of employment discrimination." Taiwan's Foxconn in recent years has expanded in India, where it makes iPhones and products for other smartphone brands, and has plans to move into AirPods and chipmaking. Also watch | Foxconn discriminating against married women in India? × Still, Foxconn withdrew in July last year from a $19.5 billion semiconductor joint venture with Indian conglomerate Vedanta, in a setback to Modi's chipmaking plans for India. Modi's government ordered Tamil Nadu to provide a "detailed report" and government officials visited the Foxconn factory to question executives about hiring practices, but New Delhi has not yet released any findings. Modi's post on X on Wednesday did not address any of those issues and the prime minister's office did not immediately respond to an email seeking details about the talks. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi shows Foxconn chairman India's 'wonderful opportunities' after hiring malpractice report

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the successful Paris Olympics contingent on Thursday (Aug 15) as the nation celebrated its 78th Independence Day. The contingent led by PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker was greeted by the Indian PM with other athletes also joining. The contingent also consisted of Swpanil Kusale, Aman Sehrawat and Sarabjot Singh who were spotted during the felicitation at the PM’s residence.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi meets Indian contingent</strong></h2>

<p>With India celebrating its 78th Independence Day just days after the culmination of the Paris Olympics 2024, India’s prime minister seized the occasion to meet the athletes. India won six medals at the Paris Games and got deprived of a seventh after Manu Bhaker was disqualified. The six medals include&nbsp;one silver and five bronze medals.</p>

<p>India won bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol event in the form of Manu Bhaker while she would later pair with Sarabjot Singh to win a bronze medal in the team’s 10m air pistol. Manu missed a third medal when&nbsp;she finished fourth in the 25m air pistol event. India’s third medal was clinched by Swapnil Kusale who won bronze in 50 metre rifle three positions.</p>

<p>India added three medals in the final week when the men’s hockey team won bronze and Aman Sehrawat added the same colour. The nation’s finest achievement at the Paris Games was the silver medal with Neeraj Chopra finishing on the podium.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bccis-jay-shah-says-no-to-iccs-offer-of-hosting-2024-womens-t20-world-cup-750372">BCCI's Jay Shah says ‘no’ to ICC’s offer of hosting 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>During the felicitation, PM Modi posed with the hockey team with a stick while shooter Manu had a gun in hand.</p>

<h2><strong>Neeraj Chopra skips event</strong></h2>

<p>Interestingly, Neeraj Chopra was absent during the felicitation and skipped the event as he is away in Germany. The Indian star traveled to Germany after the Paris Olympics to undergo surgery for an injury. He was the notable absentee from the Indian contingent.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the successful Paris Olympics contingent on Thursday (Aug 15) as the nation celebrated its 78th Independence Day. The contingent led by PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker was greeted by the Indian PM with other athletes also joining.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the successful Paris Olympics contingent on Thursday (Aug 15) as the nation celebrated its 78th Independence Day. The contingent led by PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker was greeted by the Indian PM with other athletes also joining. The contingent also consisted of Swpanil Kusale, Aman Sehrawat and Sarabjot Singh who were spotted during the felicitation at the PM’s residence. PM Modi meets Indian contingent With India celebrating its 78th Independence Day just days after the culmination of the Paris Olympics 2024, India’s prime minister seized the occasion to meet the athletes. India won six medals at the Paris Games and got deprived of a seventh after Manu Bhaker was disqualified. The six medals include one silver and five bronze medals. India won bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol event in the form of Manu Bhaker while she would later pair with Sarabjot Singh to win a bronze medal in the team’s 10m air pistol. Manu missed a third medal when she finished fourth in the 25m air pistol event. India’s third medal was clinched by Swapnil Kusale who won bronze in 50 metre rifle three positions. India added three medals in the final week when the men’s hockey team won bronze and Aman Sehrawat added the same colour. The nation’s finest achievement at the Paris Games was the silver medal with Neeraj Chopra finishing on the podium. ALSO READ | BCCI's Jay Shah says ‘no’ to ICC’s offer of hosting 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup During the felicitation, PM Modi posed with the hockey team with a stick while shooter Manu had a gun in hand. Neeraj Chopra skips event Interestingly, Neeraj Chopra was absent during the felicitation and skipped the event as he is away in Germany. The Indian star traveled to Germany after the Paris Olympics to undergo surgery for an injury. He was the notable absentee from the Indian contingent.

PM Narendra Modi meets Indian Olympic athletes on Independence Day; greets Manu Bhaker, PR Sreejesh

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation at the Red Fort, New Delhi on the occasion of India's 78th Independence Day, on Thursday (Aug 15). During his speech, Modi touched upon various aspects and even congratulated the Indian contingent, with some of them&nbsp;in attendance, for their performance in the just-concluded Paris Olympics 2024 edition. In the showpiece event, India ended with six medals. While PM Modi lauded the overall run and wished the paralympic athletes for the upcoming Paralympic Games, he also revealed that it is India's dream to host the 2036 Olympics.</p>

<p>Talking to the nation, PM Modi said, "Today, we also have with us the youth who made the Indian flag fly high in the Olympics. On behalf of 140 crore countrymen, I congratulate all our athletes and players. In the next few days, a huge contingent of India will leave for Paris to participate in the Paralympics. I extend best wishes to all our Paralympians."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-cas-dismisses-vinesh-phogats-appeal-can-indian-wrestler-challenge-the-decision-all-you-need-to-know-750269">CAS dismisses Vinesh Phogat's appeal: Can Indian wrestler challenge the decision? All you need to know</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'India has the ability to organise big events'</strong></h2>

<p>He further added, "India organised the G20 Summit in India and hosted over 200 events across the nation. It proved that India has the ability to organise big events. As this has been proven, it is now India's dream to host the 2036 Olympics in India, and we are preparing for that."</p>

<p>It will take a huge task for India to host the marquee tournament in 2036. However, the nation's top leaders have time and again pointed out their desire to aim for hosting the Olympics after 12 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking about Paris 2024, India ended with just six medals -- one less than their overall tally in Tokyo 2020 (their best-ever). Neeraj Chopra earned silver in men's javelin whereas Manu Bhaker-led shooting squad impressed with three medals (bronze), Aman Sehrawat settled for bronze in men's freestyle 57kg event whereas the Harmanpreet Singh-led Indian hockey team also ended with bronze.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation at the Red Fort, New Delhi on the occasion of India's 78th Independence Day, on Thursday (Aug 15). During his speech, Modi touched upon various aspects and even congratulated the Indian contingent, with some of them in attendance, for their performance in the just-concluded Paris Olympics 2024 edition.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation at the Red Fort, New Delhi on the occasion of India's 78th Independence Day, on Thursday (Aug 15). During his speech, Modi touched upon various aspects and even congratulated the Indian contingent, with some of them in attendance, for their performance in the just-concluded Paris Olympics 2024 edition. In the showpiece event, India ended with six medals. While PM Modi lauded the overall run and wished the paralympic athletes for the upcoming Paralympic Games, he also revealed that it is India's dream to host the 2036 Olympics. Talking to the nation, PM Modi said, "Today, we also have with us the youth who made the Indian flag fly high in the Olympics. On behalf of 140 crore countrymen, I congratulate all our athletes and players. In the next few days, a huge contingent of India will leave for Paris to participate in the Paralympics. I extend best wishes to all our Paralympians." Also read: CAS dismisses Vinesh Phogat's appeal: Can Indian wrestler challenge the decision? All you need to know 'India has the ability to organise big events' He further added, "India organised the G20 Summit in India and hosted over 200 events across the nation. It proved that India has the ability to organise big events. As this has been proven, it is now India's dream to host the 2036 Olympics in India, and we are preparing for that." It will take a huge task for India to host the marquee tournament in 2036. However, the nation's top leaders have time and again pointed out their desire to aim for hosting the Olympics after 12 years. Talking about Paris 2024, India ended with just six medals -- one less than their overall tally in Tokyo 2020 (their best-ever). Neeraj Chopra earned silver in men's javelin whereas Manu Bhaker-led shooting squad impressed with three medals (bronze), Aman Sehrawat settled for bronze in men's freestyle 57kg event whereas the Harmanpreet Singh-led Indian hockey team also ended with bronze.

It is India's dream to host 2036 Olympics, says PM Modi during Independence Day speech

<p>India and Singapore are working on high-level engagement with the upcoming visit of PM Narendra&nbsp;Modi and the ministerial level 3+3 dialogue. PM Modi is expected to visit the prosperous Southeast Asian country in the first week of September, along with his visit to Thailand for the BIMSTEC summit.</p>

<p>While the BIMSTEC summit is scheduled on 4th September, the PM could visit Singapore after that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last visit of PM Modi to Singapore was a bilateral&nbsp;in 2018 visit and later to attend the 13th East Asia Summit. During his visit that year, he also addressed the Shangri La Dialogue, becoming the first Indian prime minister to do so.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/singapore-approves-air-india-vistara-merger-with-conditions-report-697049">Singapore approves Air India-Vistara merger with conditions: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable or the 3+3 dialogue is scheduled to take place around 25th August. This will be the 2nd edition of the meetings that take place at the level of foreign, finance and trade ministers. More Indian ministers could join the key meeting as well as focus on signing pacts on several areas, from food safety to digitalisation, to semiconductors.</p>

<p>The first such meeting took place in Delhi in September of 2022.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Foreign investments in India remains promising</strong></p>

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<p>The India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) was established to deepen existing cooperation and identify opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration in new and emerging areas. These areas include digital connectivity, Fintech, green economy, green hydrogen, skill development and food productivity. For the inaugural meeting in Delhi, the then Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had visited India, and also travelled to Gujarat. Wong took over as the 4th Prime Minister of Singapore earlier this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Singapore have several areas of cooperation, even as both sides share broad convergence on a range of international issues. India had invited Singapore as a guest country during its presidency of the G20 grouping last year. Singapore is India’s largest trade partner in ASEAN and the leading source of FDI. Ethnic Indians constitute about 9.1 per cent&nbsp;or around 3.5 lakh&nbsp;of the resident population of 3.9 million in Singapore.</p>


India and Singapore are working on high-level engagement with the upcoming visit of PM Narendra Modi and the ministerial level 3+3 dialogue. PM Modi is expected to visit the prosperous Southeast Asian country in the first week of September, along with his visit to Thailand for the BIMSTEC summit.

India and Singapore are working on high-level engagement with the upcoming visit of PM Narendra Modi and the ministerial level 3+3 dialogue. PM Modi is expected to visit the prosperous Southeast Asian country in the first week of September, along with his visit to Thailand for the BIMSTEC summit. While the BIMSTEC summit is scheduled on 4th September, the PM could visit Singapore after that. The last visit of PM Modi to Singapore was a bilateral in 2018 visit and later to attend the 13th East Asia Summit. During his visit that year, he also addressed the Shangri La Dialogue, becoming the first Indian prime minister to do so. Also read | Singapore approves Air India-Vistara merger with conditions: Report The India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable or the 3+3 dialogue is scheduled to take place around 25th August. This will be the 2nd edition of the meetings that take place at the level of foreign, finance and trade ministers. More Indian ministers could join the key meeting as well as focus on signing pacts on several areas, from food safety to digitalisation, to semiconductors. The first such meeting took place in Delhi in September of 2022. Also watch | Foreign investments in India remains promising × The India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) was established to deepen existing cooperation and identify opportunities for mutually beneficial collaboration in new and emerging areas. These areas include digital connectivity, Fintech, green economy, green hydrogen, skill development and food productivity. For the inaugural meeting in Delhi, the then Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had visited India, and also travelled to Gujarat. Wong took over as the 4th Prime Minister of Singapore earlier this year. India and Singapore have several areas of cooperation, even as both sides share broad convergence on a range of international issues. India had invited Singapore as a guest country during its presidency of the G20 grouping last year. Singapore is India’s largest trade partner in ASEAN and the leading source of FDI. Ethnic Indians constitute about 9.1 per cent or around 3.5 lakh of the resident population of 3.9 million in Singapore.

India, Singapore working on PM Modi's visit, key 3+3 ministerial dialogue

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent best wishes to Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus who was sworn in as Bangladesh's interim government's chief adviser on Thursday (August 8) evening. PM Modi called upon Yunus to ensure the "safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities", who have come under targeted attacks since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India on August 5.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/deeply-concerned-jaishankar-to-rajya-sabha-on-state-of-bangladesh-minorities-after-sheikh-hasinas-exit-747668">'Deeply concerned': Jaishankar on state of minorities in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s exit</a></strong></p>

<p>"My best wishes to Professor Muhammad Yunus on the assumption of his new responsibilities. We hope for an early return to normalcy, ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities. India remains committed to working with Bangladesh to fulfill the shared aspirations of both our peoples for peace, security and development," Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X on Thursday, less than an hour after Yunus was sworn-in as the leader of Bangladesh's interim government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nobel-laureate-muhammad-yunus-takes-over-as-chief-adviser-of-bangladeshs-interim-government-748510">Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus takes over as chief adviser of Bangladesh's interim government</a></strong></p>

<p>Yunus was sworn in days after a student-led uprising toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India, and is since stationed&nbsp;at a military airbase near New Delhi.</p>

<p>In India's corridors of power, Hasina is credited with having kept Dhaka equidistant from New Delhi and Beijing during her regime.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh Crisis: Muhammad Yunus assures to restore law &amp; order</strong></p>

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<p>India shares a border with Bangladesh of more than 4,000 kilometres (2,485 miles).</p>

<p>Numerous&nbsp;businesses and homes owned by Hindus were attacked following Hasina's ousting, and an unspecified number of Hindus have been killed in targeted mob violence.</p>

<p>From parliament to the External Affairs Ministry, New Delhi has repeatedly expressed concerns about the state of minorities in the South Asian nation after Hasina's exit.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent best wishes to Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus who was sworn in as Bangladesh's interim government's chief adviser on Thursday (August 8) evening.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent best wishes to Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus who was sworn in as Bangladesh's interim government's chief adviser on Thursday (August 8) evening. PM Modi called upon Yunus to ensure the "safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities", who have come under targeted attacks since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India on August 5. Also read | 'Deeply concerned': Jaishankar on state of minorities in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s exit "My best wishes to Professor Muhammad Yunus on the assumption of his new responsibilities. We hope for an early return to normalcy, ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all other minority communities. India remains committed to working with Bangladesh to fulfill the shared aspirations of both our peoples for peace, security and development," Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X on Thursday, less than an hour after Yunus was sworn-in as the leader of Bangladesh's interim government. Also read | Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus takes over as chief adviser of Bangladesh's interim government Yunus was sworn in days after a student-led uprising toppled Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India, and is since stationed at a military airbase near New Delhi. In India's corridors of power, Hasina is credited with having kept Dhaka equidistant from New Delhi and Beijing during her regime. Also watch | Bangladesh Crisis: Muhammad Yunus assures to restore law & order × India shares a border with Bangladesh of more than 4,000 kilometres (2,485 miles). Numerous businesses and homes owned by Hindus were attacked following Hasina's ousting, and an unspecified number of Hindus have been killed in targeted mob violence. From parliament to the External Affairs Ministry, New Delhi has repeatedly expressed concerns about the state of minorities in the South Asian nation after Hasina's exit.

‘Hope for safety and protection of Hindus’: PM Modi to Muhammad Yunus upon inauguration as Bangladesh leader

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit landslide-struck Wayanad in Kerala on August 10 (Saturday) and interact with the survivors of the disaster that hit the southern state last month, a source said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive on a special flight that will land in Kannur.</p>

<p>From Kannur, PM Modi will conduct an aerial survey of the landslide-affected areas on a helicopter. He will then visit a few relief camps where over 10,000 people are currently sheltered.</p>

<p>Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan are expected to accompany PM Modi after his arrival in Kannur.</p>

<p>The Vijayan-led state government as well as the Congress-led Opposition have been demanding that the Central government declare the disaster as a national calamity.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-100-animals-being-cared-for-in-aftermath-of-wayanad-landslides-748062">Over 100 animals being cared for in Wayanad after devastating landslides</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the toll from the disaster on Wednesday rose to 413, with 152 people still missing.</p>

<p>The announcement of PM Modi's visit came hours after Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday urged the Union government to declare the Wayanad landslide as a national disaster given the devastation it has left behind.</p>

<p>"I urge the Union government to support a comprehensive rehabilitation package for Wayanad. This package must include building disaster-resilient infrastructures to help the affected communities. The Union government should also enhance the compensation that people are getting. Importantly, the Union government should declare the Wayanad landslide as a national disaster," LoP Rahul Gandhi said while addressing the Lok Sabha.</p>

<p>He said that there is a need for a comprehensive assistance plan from the Union to rebuild Wayanad.</p>

<p>On August 1, Rahul Gandhi along with his sister -- Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra -- visited the landslide-affected Chooralmala in Kerala's Wayanad.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit landslide-struck Wayanad in Kerala on August 10 (Saturday) and interact with the survivors of the disaster that hit the southern state last month, a source said on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit landslide-struck Wayanad in Kerala on August 10 (Saturday) and interact with the survivors of the disaster that hit the southern state last month, a source said on Wednesday. The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive on a special flight that will land in Kannur. From Kannur, PM Modi will conduct an aerial survey of the landslide-affected areas on a helicopter. He will then visit a few relief camps where over 10,000 people are currently sheltered. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan are expected to accompany PM Modi after his arrival in Kannur. The Vijayan-led state government as well as the Congress-led Opposition have been demanding that the Central government declare the disaster as a national calamity. Also Read | Over 100 animals being cared for in Wayanad after devastating landslides Meanwhile, the toll from the disaster on Wednesday rose to 413, with 152 people still missing. The announcement of PM Modi's visit came hours after Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday urged the Union government to declare the Wayanad landslide as a national disaster given the devastation it has left behind. "I urge the Union government to support a comprehensive rehabilitation package for Wayanad. This package must include building disaster-resilient infrastructures to help the affected communities. The Union government should also enhance the compensation that people are getting. Importantly, the Union government should declare the Wayanad landslide as a national disaster," LoP Rahul Gandhi said while addressing the Lok Sabha. He said that there is a need for a comprehensive assistance plan from the Union to rebuild Wayanad. On August 1, Rahul Gandhi along with his sister -- Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra -- visited the landslide-affected Chooralmala in Kerala's Wayanad. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian PM Narendra Modi to visit landslide stricken Wayanad on Aug 10: Report

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India on August 5, marking the end of an era in South Asian politics. Hasina, who had just won a record fifth term in January, was offered safe passage to India and is expected to seek asylum elsewhere.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/london-or-delhi-what-next-for-bangladeshs-ousted-former-pm-sheikh-hasina-747636">London or Delhi? What next for Bangladesh's ousted former PM Sheikh Hasina</a></strong></p>

<p>This sudden departure has sent shockwaves through the region and poses significant challenges to India's strategic interests.</p>

<h2><strong>Sheikh Hasina's legacy</strong></h2>

<p>Hasina's legacy is complex and consequential. Under her leadership, Bangladesh transformed from a struggling nation to an economic powerhouse, becoming the world's second-largest garment exporter after China. Per capita income tripled in the last decade, and she was seen as a bulwark against extremism and army rule in a region plagued by instability.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-edges-past-china-over-bangladeshs-teesta-water-management-project-734190">India edges past China over Bangladesh's Teesta water management project</a></strong></p>

<p>In India, she was viewed as a trusted strategic partner who shared strong personal chemistry with Prime Minister Modi.</p>

<h2><strong>Sheikh Hasina's downfall: Muzzled Opposition, jailed rivals</strong></h2>

<p>The immediate trigger for Hasina's resignation was her mishandling of student protests demanding quota reforms. Instead of engaging with their concerns, her government resorted to heavy-handed tactics, including internet shutdowns, police brutality, and inflammatory rhetoric.</p>

<p>This approach led to widespread anger and violence, ultimately fueling the movement that forced her from power.</p>

<p>Looking back, Hasina's downfall can be attributed to several factors. Despite being a victim of political persecution herself, she resorted to muzzling opposition, jailing rivals, and creating a de facto one-party state. Her regime was increasingly seen as corrupt and nepotistic, with government jobs filled by party loyalists. The rise of a police state and its associated abuses alienated many citizens.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/the-capitals-dhakas-tryst-with-pm-sheikh-hasina-styled-democracy-677508">The Capitals: Dhaka's tryst with PM Sheikh Hasina-styled democracy</a></strong></p>

<p>Economic challenges, including high unemployment and inflation, exacerbated by post-Covid recovery struggles, fueled discontent. Additionally, Hasina was perceived as too close to India, particularly in countering terrorism and radicalism, which some saw as compromising Bangladesh's interests.</p>

<h2><strong>Hasina's Bangladesh exit: View from India</strong></h2>

<p>For India, Hasina's exit presents multiple challenges. It represents the loss of a trusted partner in a volatile region and potentially destabilises India's eastern border, complicating security issues in the northeast. It also creates opportunities for China and Pakistan to expand their influence in Bangladesh. The coming weeks may see disruptions in bilateral connectivity and tensions in security and counter-terror cooperation. There's also a risk of increased illegal migration into India due to political and economic uncertainty in Bangladesh.</p>

<p>India's foreign policy establishment is understandably concerned. Prime Minister Modi has already convened high-level meetings to address the situation. However, it's crucial to remember that the fundamentals of India-Bangladesh relations remain strong. The logic of geography and shared economic interests should prevent any significant long-term deterioration in ties.</p>

<p>Moving forward, India must tread carefully. New Delhi should reaffirm its commitment to Dhaka's democratic process and economic development while avoiding the appearance of interference. By positioning itself as a stable, trusted partner regardless of who is in power in Dhaka, New Delhi can help ensure that this crisis becomes an opportunity for strengthening democratic institutions in Bangladesh rather than sliding into chaos.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Resigns, Flees the Country as Army Takes Over</strong></p>

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<p>The coming months will be critical. How India navigates this challenge will have profound implications not just for bilateral relations, but for the stability and prosperity of the entire South Asian region.</p>

<p>Despite the current volatility, it is likely that the historic India-Bangladesh ties will endure, and Bangladesh will resume its political and economic progress. India must assert, both publicly and privately, that a democratic, rising India remains a trusted and historic partner in Bangladesh's journey towards power and prosperity.</p>

<p><strong><em>(Disclaimer: The writer's views do not represent those of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;</em></strong></p>


In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India on August 5, marking the end of an era in South Asian politics.

In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India on August 5, marking the end of an era in South Asian politics. Hasina, who had just won a record fifth term in January, was offered safe passage to India and is expected to seek asylum elsewhere. Also read | London or Delhi? What next for Bangladesh's ousted former PM Sheikh Hasina This sudden departure has sent shockwaves through the region and poses significant challenges to India's strategic interests. Sheikh Hasina's legacy Hasina's legacy is complex and consequential. Under her leadership, Bangladesh transformed from a struggling nation to an economic powerhouse, becoming the world's second-largest garment exporter after China. Per capita income tripled in the last decade, and she was seen as a bulwark against extremism and army rule in a region plagued by instability. Also read | India edges past China over Bangladesh's Teesta water management project In India, she was viewed as a trusted strategic partner who shared strong personal chemistry with Prime Minister Modi. Sheikh Hasina's downfall: Muzzled Opposition, jailed rivals The immediate trigger for Hasina's resignation was her mishandling of student protests demanding quota reforms. Instead of engaging with their concerns, her government resorted to heavy-handed tactics, including internet shutdowns, police brutality, and inflammatory rhetoric. This approach led to widespread anger and violence, ultimately fueling the movement that forced her from power. Looking back, Hasina's downfall can be attributed to several factors. Despite being a victim of political persecution herself, she resorted to muzzling opposition, jailing rivals, and creating a de facto one-party state. Her regime was increasingly seen as corrupt and nepotistic, with government jobs filled by party loyalists. The rise of a police state and its associated abuses alienated many citizens. Also read | The Capitals: Dhaka's tryst with PM Sheikh Hasina-styled democracy Economic challenges, including high unemployment and inflation, exacerbated by post-Covid recovery struggles, fueled discontent. Additionally, Hasina was perceived as too close to India, particularly in countering terrorism and radicalism, which some saw as compromising Bangladesh's interests. Hasina's Bangladesh exit: View from India For India, Hasina's exit presents multiple challenges. It represents the loss of a trusted partner in a volatile region and potentially destabilises India's eastern border, complicating security issues in the northeast. It also creates opportunities for China and Pakistan to expand their influence in Bangladesh. The coming weeks may see disruptions in bilateral connectivity and tensions in security and counter-terror cooperation. There's also a risk of increased illegal migration into India due to political and economic uncertainty in Bangladesh. India's foreign policy establishment is understandably concerned. Prime Minister Modi has already convened high-level meetings to address the situation. However, it's crucial to remember that the fundamentals of India-Bangladesh relations remain strong. The logic of geography and shared economic interests should prevent any significant long-term deterioration in ties. Moving forward, India must tread carefully. New Delhi should reaffirm its commitment to Dhaka's democratic process and economic development while avoiding the appearance of interference. By positioning itself as a stable, trusted partner regardless of who is in power in Dhaka, New Delhi can help ensure that this crisis becomes an opportunity for strengthening democratic institutions in Bangladesh rather than sliding into chaos. Also watch | Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina Resigns, Flees the Country as Army Takes Over × The coming months will be critical. How India navigates this challenge will have profound implications not just for bilateral relations, but for the stability and prosperity of the entire South Asian region. Despite the current volatility, it is likely that the historic India-Bangladesh ties will endure, and Bangladesh will resume its political and economic progress. India must assert, both publicly and privately, that a democratic, rising India remains a trusted and historic partner in Bangladesh's journey towards power and prosperity. (Disclaimer: The writer's views do not represent those of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Even without Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka, India must assert itself as Bangladesh's historic partner

<p>The Indian government is set to bring changes to the Waqf Act with the primary aim of curbing the "unfettered" powers of the Muslim body - the country's third largest landowner after the Indian Railways and armed forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per multiple reports, the Cabinet held a meeting on Friday (Aug 2) and discussed 40-odd amendments in the Wakf Act (known as the Waqf Act before 2013). The legislation to amend the Waqf Act is likely to be introduced in the Parliament next week.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does the government want to repeal?</strong></h2>

<p>The amendments are&nbsp;intended to reduce the arbitrary powers currently wielded by Waqf Boards, which allow them to claim any property as waqf without any mandatory verification. Section 3 of the Waqf Act defines what a Waqf property is.</p>

<p>"Waqf means the permanent dedication by any person, of any movable or immovable property for any purpose recognised by the Muslim law as pious, religious or charitable," it says.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under the changes, women's participation in the Central Waqf Council might also be increased by amending Section 9 and Section 14. Additionally, the government is mulling involving district magistrates in monitoring Waqf properties to prevent misuse of the assets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Properties claimed by Waqf Boards will have to undergo fresh verification to resolve disputes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aligarh-muslim-university-bike-riding-attackers-open-fire-at-two-amu-staff-members-wion-originals-744142"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Aligarh Muslim University: Bike-riding attackers open fire at two AMU staff members</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>How much property do the Waqf Boards have?</strong></h2>

<p>Currently, Waqf Boards have almost 870,000 immovable properties, 16,173 moveable properties and 356,031 estates. In 2013, the then UPA government, led by the Indian National Congress (INC) gave more sweeping powers to Waqf Boards, which have since been a point of contention.</p>

<p>There are over 58,000 complaints against the board with more than 18,000 in tribunals while over 150 are in High Courts and Supreme Courts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-man-constructs-a-temple-for-alien-god-claims-he-spoke-to-aliens-who-will-save-world-746980"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Indian man constructs a temple for 'Alien God', claims he spoke to aliens who will save world</strong></a></p>

<p>In September 2022, a huge controversy erupted when the Waqf Board in the southern state of Tamil Nadu claimed ownership of the entire Thiruchendurai village which had a majority Hindu population.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Waqf Board claimed that&nbsp;they hold 389 acres of land that was measured by government-recognised surveyors and registered as Waqf property in 1954.</p>

<p>Notably, the amendments are being planned, keeping in mind the upcoming assembly elections in the states of&nbsp;Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Indian government is set to bring changes to the Waqf Act with the primary aim of curbing the "unfettered" powers of the Muslim body - the country's third largest landowner after the Indian Railways and armed forces.

The Indian government is set to bring changes to the Waqf Act with the primary aim of curbing the "unfettered" powers of the Muslim body - the country's third largest landowner after the Indian Railways and armed forces. As per multiple reports, the Cabinet held a meeting on Friday (Aug 2) and discussed 40-odd amendments in the Wakf Act (known as the Waqf Act before 2013). The legislation to amend the Waqf Act is likely to be introduced in the Parliament next week. What does the government want to repeal? The amendments are intended to reduce the arbitrary powers currently wielded by Waqf Boards, which allow them to claim any property as waqf without any mandatory verification. Section 3 of the Waqf Act defines what a Waqf property is. "Waqf means the permanent dedication by any person, of any movable or immovable property for any purpose recognised by the Muslim law as pious, religious or charitable," it says. Under the changes, women's participation in the Central Waqf Council might also be increased by amending Section 9 and Section 14. Additionally, the government is mulling involving district magistrates in monitoring Waqf properties to prevent misuse of the assets. Properties claimed by Waqf Boards will have to undergo fresh verification to resolve disputes. Watch | Aligarh Muslim University: Bike-riding attackers open fire at two AMU staff members × How much property do the Waqf Boards have? Currently, Waqf Boards have almost 870,000 immovable properties, 16,173 moveable properties and 356,031 estates. In 2013, the then UPA government, led by the Indian National Congress (INC) gave more sweeping powers to Waqf Boards, which have since been a point of contention. There are over 58,000 complaints against the board with more than 18,000 in tribunals while over 150 are in High Courts and Supreme Courts. Also read | Indian man constructs a temple for 'Alien God', claims he spoke to aliens who will save world In September 2022, a huge controversy erupted when the Waqf Board in the southern state of Tamil Nadu claimed ownership of the entire Thiruchendurai village which had a majority Hindu population. The Waqf Board claimed that they hold 389 acres of land that was measured by government-recognised surveyors and registered as Waqf property in 1954. Notably, the amendments are being planned, keeping in mind the upcoming assembly elections in the states of Maharashtra, Haryana, and Jharkhand. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian government set to bring bill to curb ‘unfettered’ powers of Waqf Board

<p>Not just US billionaire Elon Musk, his two kids have also gone viral on the internet as their throwback nine-year-old picture with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi resurfaces. And Elon Musk himself has reacted to the picture.</p>

<p>It all started when famous&nbsp;X user&nbsp;DogeDesigner shared a picture showing PM Modi with the two children. A smiling Elon can also be seen in the frame. The Indian PM also shook hands with the two kids.</p>

<p>"Damian &amp; Kai," Musk wrote in response to the post, referring to the kids' names.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="lt">Damian &amp; Kai</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1819370289047769562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Notably, the Tesla boss has 11 children in total, and he has voiced support for large families in the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Damian and&nbsp;Kaiquot are children from&nbsp;Musk's first wife&nbsp;Justine Musk, who is a Canadian author. The couple had twins in 2004, namely&nbsp;Vivian and Griffin. Two years later,&nbsp;Damian and&nbsp;Kaiquot were born along with a third called&nbsp;Saxon.</p>

<p>Musk has three children with his second wife Grimes and three with&nbsp;Shivon Zilis.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiMk8aW8tiHAxUJUGwGHXj7MIoQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diversity-hire-elon-musk-shares-ai-generated-video-of-kamala-harris-ahead-of-us-elections-watch-745084" jsname="YKoRaf" original_target="https://www.wionews.com/world/diversity-hire-elon-musk-shares-ai-generated-video-of-kamala-harris-ahead-of-us-elections-watch-745084" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/diversity-hire-elon-musk-shares-ai-generated-video-of-kamala-harris-ahead-of-us-elections-watch-745084&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMk8aW8tiHAxUJUGwGHXj7MIoQxfQBKAB6BAgKEAE" saprocessedanchor="true">`Diversity hire?`: Elon Musk shares controversial video of Kamala Harris ahead of US elections. Watch!</a></strong></p>

<p>In July 2022, Musk wrote on X, "Bravo to big families" and expressed his desire to have as many children as possible and become a good father too.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A collapsing birth rate is the biggest danger civilisation faces, by far," Musk warned.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiMk8aW8tiHAxUJUGwGHXj7MIoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-accepts-challenge-to-fight-against-venezuelan-president-says-if-i-win-he-resigns-746135" jsname="YKoRaf" original_target="https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-accepts-challenge-to-fight-against-venezuelan-president-says-if-i-win-he-resigns-746135" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/musk-accepts-challenge-to-fight-against-venezuelan-president-says-if-i-win-he-resigns-746135&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMk8aW8tiHAxUJUGwGHXj7MIoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" saprocessedanchor="true">Musk accepts challenge to fight against Venezuelan president, says `If I win, he resigns`</a></strong></p>

<p>Musk's response to the nine-year-old&nbsp;photo was liked by more than 3,000 users on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Social media meanwhile was left awestruck with the cute photo, with&nbsp;Biologist Nina saying, “How old are the boys? They are very nice and polite!”</p>

<p>A second user praised the fact that both kids had a book in their hands.</p>

<p>“Love how they both have a book...Parenting 101,” the user said.</p>

<p>“Such an amazing education Elon shared/is sharing with his children when possible: I’m sure these two lads are outstanding young adults today: And will continue learning from dear ole dad!" a third user wrote.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Not just US billionaire Elon Musk, his two kids have also gone viral on the internet as their throwback nine-year-old picture with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi resurfaces.

Not just US billionaire Elon Musk, his two kids have also gone viral on the internet as their throwback nine-year-old picture with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi resurfaces. And Elon Musk himself has reacted to the picture. It all started when famous X user DogeDesigner shared a picture showing PM Modi with the two children. A smiling Elon can also be seen in the frame. The Indian PM also shook hands with the two kids. "Damian & Kai," Musk wrote in response to the post, referring to the kids' names. Damian & Kai — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 2, 2024 × Notably, the Tesla boss has 11 children in total, and he has voiced support for large families in the past. Damian and Kaiquot are children from Musk's first wife Justine Musk, who is a Canadian author. The couple had twins in 2004, namely Vivian and Griffin. Two years later, Damian and Kaiquot were born along with a third called Saxon. Musk has three children with his second wife Grimes and three with Shivon Zilis. Also read: `Diversity hire?`: Elon Musk shares controversial video of Kamala Harris ahead of US elections. Watch! In July 2022, Musk wrote on X, "Bravo to big families" and expressed his desire to have as many children as possible and become a good father too. "A collapsing birth rate is the biggest danger civilisation faces, by far," Musk warned. Also read: Musk accepts challenge to fight against Venezuelan president, says `If I win, he resigns` Musk's response to the nine-year-old photo was liked by more than 3,000 users on X. Social media meanwhile was left awestruck with the cute photo, with Biologist Nina saying, “How old are the boys? They are very nice and polite!” A second user praised the fact that both kids had a book in their hands. “Love how they both have a book...Parenting 101,” the user said. “Such an amazing education Elon shared/is sharing with his children when possible: I’m sure these two lads are outstanding young adults today: And will continue learning from dear ole dad!" a third user wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

Nine-year-old photo of PM Modi shaking hands with Elon Musk's kids goes viral, Tesla boss reacts

<p>India will be hosting the third edition of the Global South Summit next month, around August 17. The summit, which will take place in virtual mode, will be chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside the meetings at ministerial level. Currently, New Delhi is sending out invites, with sources in various global capitals confirming that they have received the invites.</p>

<p>The August 2024 edition of the summit will be the first such edition of the summit under Prime Minister Modi's third term in power.</p>

<p>Officially referred to as the 'Summit of the Global South', the first edition of the summit took place in January 2023 in the year of India's G20 presidency. India, by hosting this summit, plans to provide a platform for countries of the Global South to share their perspectives, challenges, and priorities on a common platform.</p>

<p>The second edition of the summit took place in November 2023 after the New Delhi G20 leaders' summit in September.</p>

<p>The theme of the inaugural summit was 'Unity of Voice, Unity of Purpose', and the theme of the second summit was 'Together, for Everyone's Growth, with Everyone's Trust'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/second-global-south-summit-a-holistic-assessment-660338">Second Global South Summit: A holistic assessment</a></strong></p>

<p>The summits have seen participation from over 120 countries and focus on issues such as climate change, sustainable development, global governance, and international cooperation. The ministerial sessions took place at the level of foreign ministers, education ministers, finance ministers, environment ministers, energy ministers, health ministers, and commerce/trade ministers.</p>

<p>The summits have seen key announcements from the Indian side.</p>

<p>These include PM Modi inaugurating the Global South Center of Excellence, known as 'Dakshin'&nbsp;— meaning the South&nbsp;—&nbsp;which will work as an interface for forging stronger collaboration between global south countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Global South Centre of Excellence</strong></p>

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<p>The announcements include the platform of the Global South Science and Technology Initiative, the Global South Scholarship Program, cooperation in the health sector, and the Global South Young Diplomats Forum.</p>

<p>During these summits, talks have also focused on the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the crisis in West Asia. These developments have had significant consequences for the Global South, including increased prices of fuel, food, and fertilisers.</p>


India will be hosting the third edition of the Global South Summit next month, around August 17. The summit, which will take place in virtual mode, will be chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside the meetings at ministerial level.

India will be hosting the third edition of the Global South Summit next month, around August 17. The summit, which will take place in virtual mode, will be chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside the meetings at ministerial level. Currently, New Delhi is sending out invites, with sources in various global capitals confirming that they have received the invites. The August 2024 edition of the summit will be the first such edition of the summit under Prime Minister Modi's third term in power. Officially referred to as the 'Summit of the Global South', the first edition of the summit took place in January 2023 in the year of India's G20 presidency. India, by hosting this summit, plans to provide a platform for countries of the Global South to share their perspectives, challenges, and priorities on a common platform. The second edition of the summit took place in November 2023 after the New Delhi G20 leaders' summit in September. The theme of the inaugural summit was 'Unity of Voice, Unity of Purpose', and the theme of the second summit was 'Together, for Everyone's Growth, with Everyone's Trust'. Also read | Second Global South Summit: A holistic assessment The summits have seen participation from over 120 countries and focus on issues such as climate change, sustainable development, global governance, and international cooperation. The ministerial sessions took place at the level of foreign ministers, education ministers, finance ministers, environment ministers, energy ministers, health ministers, and commerce/trade ministers. The summits have seen key announcements from the Indian side. These include PM Modi inaugurating the Global South Center of Excellence, known as 'Dakshin' — meaning the South — which will work as an interface for forging stronger collaboration between global south countries. Also watch | Indian PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Global South Centre of Excellence × The announcements include the platform of the Global South Science and Technology Initiative, the Global South Scholarship Program, cooperation in the health sector, and the Global South Young Diplomats Forum. During these summits, talks have also focused on the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the crisis in West Asia. These developments have had significant consequences for the Global South, including increased prices of fuel, food, and fertilisers.

Exclusive: India to host third Global South Summit in August 2024

<p>India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar after unveiling the bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Tokyo on Sunday (Jul&nbsp;28) restated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message to Moscow amid war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Gandhiji's message was that solutions do not come from a battlefield, that no era should be an era of war," Jaishankar said in Tokyo, repeating what Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Russia's President Vladimir Putin during SCO meeting in Uzbekistan's Samarkand.</p>

<p>"I know that today’s era is not the era for war," Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Putin in September 2022. "We have spoken to you many times on the phone before on this, that democracy, diplomacy and dialogue — these things help the world," he had said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"Gandhiji's message was that solutions do not come from a battlefield, that no era should be an era of war..." EAM Dr S Jaishankar in Japan, restating PM's message to Moscow <a href="https://t.co/SekyfovLej">pic.twitter.com/SekyfovLej</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1817417808851923068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, while&nbsp;addressing the 14th East Asia Summit's Foreign Ministers Meeting in the capital of the Lao People's Democratic Republic as part of the meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Jaishankar&nbsp;maintained the importance of dialogue and diplomacy.</p>

<p>"Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently engaged (with) President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. India stands ready to contribute in any manner possible," he said earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WION first reported that Prime Minister Modi will visit Ukraine next month for the first time since February 2022, when Putin launched Russia's unprecedented offensive on Ukraine after dubbing it as "special military operations".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-to-visit-ukraine-in-august-744593">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August</a></strong></p>

<p>"Without Mahatma Gandhi, our independence struggle would perhaps have taken much longer...independence of India actually decolonised the entire world, it was the starting point of a very momentous event," Jaishankar said in Japan.</p>

<p>"That when India became free, other parts of Asia became free, Africa became free, Latin America became free. So what Gandhiji started, today when we say India is the fifth largest economy in the world, where the world is changing, it is heading towards multipolarity, that when the G7 becomes the G20. In a way, all this was started as a result of what Gandhiji did in history," Jaishankar added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August</strong></p>

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<p>"I would say today, at a time when we are seeing so much conflict in the world, so much tension, so much polarisation, so much bloodshed, it's very important that Gandhiji's message was that solutions do not come from a battlefield, that no era should be an era of war. And that message applies today as much as it did 80 years ago."</p>


India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar after unveiling the bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Tokyo on Sunday (Jul 28) restated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message to Moscow amid war in Ukraine.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar after unveiling the bust of Mahatma Gandhi in Tokyo on Sunday (Jul 28) restated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message to Moscow amid war in Ukraine. "Gandhiji's message was that solutions do not come from a battlefield, that no era should be an era of war," Jaishankar said in Tokyo, repeating what Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Russia's President Vladimir Putin during SCO meeting in Uzbekistan's Samarkand. "I know that today’s era is not the era for war," Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Putin in September 2022. "We have spoken to you many times on the phone before on this, that democracy, diplomacy and dialogue — these things help the world," he had said. "Gandhiji's message was that solutions do not come from a battlefield, that no era should be an era of war..." EAM Dr S Jaishankar in Japan, restating PM's message to Moscow pic.twitter.com/SekyfovLej — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) July 28, 2024 × Earlier, while addressing the 14th East Asia Summit's Foreign Ministers Meeting in the capital of the Lao People's Democratic Republic as part of the meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Jaishankar maintained the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently engaged (with) President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. India stands ready to contribute in any manner possible," he said earlier. WION first reported that Prime Minister Modi will visit Ukraine next month for the first time since February 2022, when Putin launched Russia's unprecedented offensive on Ukraine after dubbing it as "special military operations". Also read | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August "Without Mahatma Gandhi, our independence struggle would perhaps have taken much longer...independence of India actually decolonised the entire world, it was the starting point of a very momentous event," Jaishankar said in Japan. "That when India became free, other parts of Asia became free, Africa became free, Latin America became free. So what Gandhiji started, today when we say India is the fifth largest economy in the world, where the world is changing, it is heading towards multipolarity, that when the G7 becomes the G20. In a way, all this was started as a result of what Gandhiji did in history," Jaishankar added. Also watch | Indian PM Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August × "I would say today, at a time when we are seeing so much conflict in the world, so much tension, so much polarisation, so much bloodshed, it's very important that Gandhiji's message was that solutions do not come from a battlefield, that no era should be an era of war. And that message applies today as much as it did 80 years ago."

Jaishankar restates Modi's Moscow message after unveiling Gandhi bust in Tokyo

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be travelling&nbsp;to Kyiv in August, which will be his first visit to the war-torn country since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022. The visit, which is still in the works, is expected to take place in the third week of August, most likely on August 23, several sources in Delhi's diplomatic circles have confirmed. Earlier this year, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephone conversation with PM Modi and invited the Indian leader to visit his country.</p>

<p>This month saw high-level exchanges between the two&nbsp;sides. EAM Jaishankar and Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and NSA Ajit Doval and his Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Yermak held telephonic talks.</p>

<p>After the talks, EAM Jaishankar posted on social media that the talks were on "further developing our bilateral relationship".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A good conversation with FM <a href="https://twitter.com/DmytroKuleba?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DmytroKuleba</a> of Ukraine this afternoon.<br />
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Spoke about further developing our bilateral relationship.<br />
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🇮🇳 🇺🇦</p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1814238699305189400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi met Zelensky in June in Italy on the sidelines of the G7 summit. During that meeting, both sides had discussed the ongoing situation in Ukraine, with the Indian PM emphasising "dialogue and diplomacy". The PM "reiterated that India would continue to do everything within its means to support a peaceful solution", according to the handout of the meeting.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
This was the second such in-person meeting between the two leaders since the war -- the first being last year on the sidelines of the G7 meeting in Japan. World leaders who have travelled to Ukraine, have gone via Poland due to the closure of airspace. It is expected that PM Modi could also travel via Poland, and hold a conversation with the Polish leadership, including PM Donald Tusk&nbsp;ahead of his Ukraine visit.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
A whole host of Western world leaders have travelled to Kyiv since the war started, and this includes US President Biden, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asian leaders who have travelled to Ukraine&nbsp;include, Indonesian President Joko Widodo who visited the war-torn country in June 2022 and was the first Asian leader to visit since the war first started.&nbsp;Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visited Kyiv in March of 2023. Kishida had visited Ukraine after his Delhi visit.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-indias-pm-modi-speaks-to-zelensky-reitrates-need-for-dialogue-to-end-war-702496"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: India's PM Modi speaks to Zelensky, reitrates need for dialogue to end</strong></a><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-indias-pm-modi-speaks-to-zelensky-reitrates-need-for-dialogue-to-end-war-702496"> w</a>ar</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's Russia visit</strong></h2>

<p>The visit comes almost two&nbsp;months after PM Modi's Russia visit. The visit to Russia was for the annual Russia summit, which came five years after his last visit. During the visit, among many things, the focus was on the ongoing war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>Speaking to President Putin at the Kremlin, PM Modi said:&nbsp;"Your Excellency, let's take war, any conflict or terrorist acts: any person who believes in humanity feels pain when people die, and especially when innocent children die. When we feel such pain, the heart simply explodes."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-russia-private-dinner-with-putin-rosatom-pavilion-visit-738662"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi in Russia: Private dinner with Putin, Rosatom pavilion visit</strong></a><br />
<br />
India has had a historic relationship with Russia, with the main pillars of ties being defence, space, Indian students pursuing largely medical education in the country, and cooperation at multilateral organisations like the UN, and BRICS. The PM is expected to travel to Russia's Kazan in October for the BRICS summit.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to Kyiv in August, which will be his first visit to the war-torn country since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to Kyiv in August, which will be his first visit to the war-torn country since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022. The visit, which is still in the works, is expected to take place in the third week of August, most likely on August 23, several sources in Delhi's diplomatic circles have confirmed. Earlier this year, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephone conversation with PM Modi and invited the Indian leader to visit his country. This month saw high-level exchanges between the two sides. EAM Jaishankar and Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and NSA Ajit Doval and his Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Yermak held telephonic talks. After the talks, EAM Jaishankar posted on social media that the talks were on "further developing our bilateral relationship". A good conversation with FM @DmytroKuleba of Ukraine this afternoon. Spoke about further developing our bilateral relationship. 🇮🇳 🇺🇦 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 19, 2024 × PM Modi met Zelensky in June in Italy on the sidelines of the G7 summit. During that meeting, both sides had discussed the ongoing situation in Ukraine, with the Indian PM emphasising "dialogue and diplomacy". The PM "reiterated that India would continue to do everything within its means to support a peaceful solution", according to the handout of the meeting. This was the second such in-person meeting between the two leaders since the war -- the first being last year on the sidelines of the G7 meeting in Japan. World leaders who have travelled to Ukraine, have gone via Poland due to the closure of airspace. It is expected that PM Modi could also travel via Poland, and hold a conversation with the Polish leadership, including PM Donald Tusk ahead of his Ukraine visit. A whole host of Western world leaders have travelled to Kyiv since the war started, and this includes US President Biden, Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau. Asian leaders who have travelled to Ukraine include, Indonesian President Joko Widodo who visited the war-torn country in June 2022 and was the first Asian leader to visit since the war first started. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida visited Kyiv in March of 2023. Kishida had visited Ukraine after his Delhi visit. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: India's PM Modi speaks to Zelensky, reitrates need for dialogue to end war × PM Modi's Russia visit The visit comes almost two months after PM Modi's Russia visit. The visit to Russia was for the annual Russia summit, which came five years after his last visit. During the visit, among many things, the focus was on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking to President Putin at the Kremlin, PM Modi said: "Your Excellency, let's take war, any conflict or terrorist acts: any person who believes in humanity feels pain when people die, and especially when innocent children die. When we feel such pain, the heart simply explodes." Also read | PM Modi in Russia: Private dinner with Putin, Rosatom pavilion visit India has had a historic relationship with Russia, with the main pillars of ties being defence, space, Indian students pursuing largely medical education in the country, and cooperation at multilateral organisations like the UN, and BRICS. The PM is expected to travel to Russia's Kazan in October for the BRICS summit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (July 26) carried out the first blast of the Shinkun La tunnel in the Union Territory of Ladakh, which when completed will be the world's highest tunnel. The blast was carried out through a remote switch by Modi on Kargil Vijay Diwas, the day when India won the Kargil war against Pakistan in 1999.&nbsp;It was held at a ceremony in Drass, after an address by the Indian PM to mark the Kargil victory day.</p>

<p>In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: "The Shinkun La Tunnel is a pioneering infrastructure project which will boost connectivity to Leh and enhance tourism as well as commerce".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Shinkun La Tunnel is a pioneering infrastructure project which will boost connectivity to Leh and enhance tourism as well as commerce! <a href="https://t.co/7whyWjliMP">pic.twitter.com/7whyWjliMP</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1816751975616110999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Here are the top unique features of the tunnel:</p>

<h2><strong>What are the unique features of the Shinkun La tunnel?</strong></h2>

<p>Shinkun La is a twin tube tunnel which&nbsp;when completed will run 4.1 kilometres in length. It is expected to provide all-weather transport connectivity between the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and the Union Territory of Ladakh.<br />
<br />
The twin tube tunnel will have cross-passages at every 500 metres. The tunnel will cut down travelling time by around 30 minutes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kargil-vijay-diwas-pakistan-using-terrorism-proxy-war-to-stay-relevant-says-pm-modi-744403"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Kargil Vijay Diwas: 'Pakistan using terrorism, proxy war to stay relevant', says PM Modi</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>World's highest tunnel</strong></h2>

<p>The tunnel will be located at an elevation of 4,800 metres, which will make it the world's highest. Being built by the Border Roads Organisation, the tunnel will enable commuting in an area that usually is buried under snow of up to 20 feet for around five months every year during harsh winter.</p>

<h2><strong>Shinkun La: A strategic tunnel during wartime</strong></h2>

<p>In case of a war in future, the tunnel can be used by the&nbsp;Indian armed forces for quick transport of personnel, armaments&nbsp;and material. It is a region where India has had border clashes with China, as well as Pakistan.</p>

<h2><strong>A boost for Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh</strong></h2>

<p>The tunnel is also expected to add to the infrastructure development of Ladakh and help in its economy. It will also help in tourist inflow to both Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kargil-vijay-diwas-tells-us-sacrifices-made-for-the-nation-are-immortal-indian-pm-modi-744295"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;On Kargil Vijay Diwas, Indian PM Modi calls Pakistan 'patrons of terrorism'; defends Agnipath scheme</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Navigating a tough terrain</strong></h2>

<p>Ladakh, nestled in the Himalayan mountain region, is one of the toughest terrains in India. India has been building several projects that will prepare the region for war time, and provide it much-needed infrastructure development. Border area development is one of the key priorities&nbsp;of the Modi government, which has been building roads, bridges and tunnels in the region.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (July 26) carried out the first blast of the Shinkun La tunnel in the Union Territory of Ladakh, which when completed will be the world's highest tunnel.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (July 26) carried out the first blast of the Shinkun La tunnel in the Union Territory of Ladakh, which when completed will be the world's highest tunnel. The blast was carried out through a remote switch by Modi on Kargil Vijay Diwas, the day when India won the Kargil war against Pakistan in 1999. It was held at a ceremony in Drass, after an address by the Indian PM to mark the Kargil victory day. In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: "The Shinkun La Tunnel is a pioneering infrastructure project which will boost connectivity to Leh and enhance tourism as well as commerce". The Shinkun La Tunnel is a pioneering infrastructure project which will boost connectivity to Leh and enhance tourism as well as commerce! pic.twitter.com/7whyWjliMP — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2024 × Here are the top unique features of the tunnel: What are the unique features of the Shinkun La tunnel? Shinkun La is a twin tube tunnel which when completed will run 4.1 kilometres in length. It is expected to provide all-weather transport connectivity between the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and the Union Territory of Ladakh. The twin tube tunnel will have cross-passages at every 500 metres. The tunnel will cut down travelling time by around 30 minutes. Watch | Kargil Vijay Diwas: 'Pakistan using terrorism, proxy war to stay relevant', says PM Modi × World's highest tunnel The tunnel will be located at an elevation of 4,800 metres, which will make it the world's highest. Being built by the Border Roads Organisation, the tunnel will enable commuting in an area that usually is buried under snow of up to 20 feet for around five months every year during harsh winter. Shinkun La: A strategic tunnel during wartime In case of a war in future, the tunnel can be used by the Indian armed forces for quick transport of personnel, armaments and material. It is a region where India has had border clashes with China, as well as Pakistan. A boost for Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh The tunnel is also expected to add to the infrastructure development of Ladakh and help in its economy. It will also help in tourist inflow to both Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh. Also read | On Kargil Vijay Diwas, Indian PM Modi calls Pakistan 'patrons of terrorism'; defends Agnipath scheme Navigating a tough terrain Ladakh, nestled in the Himalayan mountain region, is one of the toughest terrains in India. India has been building several projects that will prepare the region for war time, and provide it much-needed infrastructure development. Border area development is one of the key priorities of the Modi government, which has been building roads, bridges and tunnels in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Shinkun La tunnel: Indian PM Modi makes 'first blast' of world's highest tunnel in Ladakh - Top features

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