Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week.

India is yet to formally announce the dates of the meeting.

Meanwhile, according to reports, China will host Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on October 8, which comes ahead of the summit between Modi and Jinping.

This will be Khan's third visit to China after assuming office.

From early this year, India and China were in touch for the second informal summit between Modi and Xi.

In August, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had also visited China to prepare the ground for the second informal summit between the two leaders.

Modi and Xi had met last year in Wuhan, China, for an informal summit in order to deepen bilateral cooperation.

That meeting came following the 73-day standoff in Bhutan's Doklam plateau in 2017, which strained bilateral ties between the two countries.

At Wuhan, Modi had expressed hope that such informal summits would become a tradition between the two countries. 
&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit the historic city of Mahabalipuram in Chennai for his second informal summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week. India is yet to formally announce the dates of the meeting. Meanwhile, according to reports, China will host Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on October 8, which comes ahead of the summit between Modi and Jinping. This will be Khan's third visit to China after assuming office. From early this year, India and China were in touch for the second informal summit between Modi and Xi. In August, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had also visited China to prepare the ground for the second informal summit between the two leaders. Modi and Xi had met last year in Wuhan, China, for an informal summit in order to deepen bilateral cooperation. That meeting came following the 73-day standoff in Bhutan's Doklam plateau in 2017, which strained bilateral ties between the two countries. At Wuhan, Modi had expressed hope that such informal summits would become a tradition between the two countries.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Chennai for second informal summit with PM Modi

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will embark on a four-day visit to India beginning from Thursday with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries.

Hasina will visit India from October 3 to 6 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During the visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and hold bilateral discussions with Modi on October 5.

This will be Hasina's first visit to India since the completion of the elections in Bangladesh and India, a press statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

"Apart from a number of agreements that are to be exchanged between the sides during the visit, the two Prime Ministers will also jointly inaugurate three bilateral projects via video link," the statement said.

Hasina will also participate as the chief guest at the India Economic Summit organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on October 3 and 4.

On September 28, Hasina and Modi had met on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York where the two leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries.

During Hasina's visit to India, both countries are expected to review the Rohingya and Teesta river water sharing issues, apart from inking agreements in various sectors.

"Prime Minister Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi may definitely discuss different issues, including the Teesta as well as Rohingyas," The Dhaka Tribune quoted Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Syed Muazzem Ali, as saying.

On the sidelines of the India Economic Forum meet, the two countries are likely to sign a number of MoUs in different areas, including connectivity, culture, technical cooperation and trade and investment, Muazzem said.

"It is so far confirmed that seven to eight MoUs are to be signed, mostly on connectivity, cultural and technical cooperation, and trade and investment after the bilateral meeting of the two prime ministers on October 5," he said.

However, the High Commissioner also stated that the number of MoUs could be as high as 10.Muazzem further remarked that the Bangladesh Prime Minister would also seek more investments from major Indian investors.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will embark on a four-day visit to India beginning from Thursday with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will embark on a four-day visit to India beginning from Thursday with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries. Hasina will visit India from October 3 to 6 at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and hold bilateral discussions with Modi on October 5. This will be Hasina's first visit to India since the completion of the elections in Bangladesh and India, a press statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. "Apart from a number of agreements that are to be exchanged between the sides during the visit, the two Prime Ministers will also jointly inaugurate three bilateral projects via video link," the statement said. Hasina will also participate as the chief guest at the India Economic Summit organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on October 3 and 4. On September 28, Hasina and Modi had met on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York where the two leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries. During Hasina's visit to India, both countries are expected to review the Rohingya and Teesta river water sharing issues, apart from inking agreements in various sectors. "Prime Minister Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi may definitely discuss different issues, including the Teesta as well as Rohingyas," The Dhaka Tribune quoted Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Syed Muazzem Ali, as saying. On the sidelines of the India Economic Forum meet, the two countries are likely to sign a number of MoUs in different areas, including connectivity, culture, technical cooperation and trade and investment, Muazzem said. "It is so far confirmed that seven to eight MoUs are to be signed, mostly on connectivity, cultural and technical cooperation, and trade and investment after the bilateral meeting of the two prime ministers on October 5," he said. However, the High Commissioner also stated that the number of MoUs could be as high as 10.Muazzem further remarked that the Bangladesh Prime Minister would also seek more investments from major Indian investors.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina to arrive in India on 4-day visit on Thursday

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events.&nbsp;

In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. Deputy Chairman of State Duma Sergey Neverov along with Indian Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma were present on the occasion.

Bala Venkatesh Varma thanked the State Duma for the opportunity to hold such an exhibition, saying ''Leo Tolstoy had a huge influence on Mahatma Gandhi, and their friendship became a symbol of friendship between the two great peoples of India and Russia.”

Mahatma Gandhi considered Leo Tolstoy as one of the most important people who influenced his life.

In Jeddah, Consul General Noor Rahman Sheikh led the celebrations by paying tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi. Padmashree Nouf Marwaai, the first female yoga practitioner of Saudi Arabia was also present during the occasion.

A big event was organised by the Indian mission in Guyana involving the prime minister, two ex-presidents of the country by the Indian mission led by envoy Dr K J Srinivasa.

The iconic Burj Khalifa was lit up with a special LED projection for one hour to pay tribute to the father of the nation.

In the neighbourhood, celebrations happened in all capitals.&nbsp;

On the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian Embassy in Kabul organised a ''Swachhta Hi Seva'' campaign. Ambassador Vinay Kumar and Embassy Officials did Shramdaan to promote Gandhiji’s idea of cleanliness and environmental protection. Afghan Post in collaboration with the Indian Embassy issued a commemorative stamp. Afghan Minister for Communication and Information Technology Fahim Hashimy and Ambassador Kumar jointly unveiled the stamp in the Embassy.

In Sri Lanka, a special programme was held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo in which Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena and High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu participated. Gandhi Bust made of bronze was unveiled at Temple Tree, the official residence of Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe.

In Bangladesh, Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni was the chief guest at the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at the High Commission in Dhaka. Indian high commissioner Riva Ganguly Das handed over the book ''Vaishnav Jan Toh Tene Kahiye'' to Rabindra Sangeet singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya.

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Indian envoy to Nepal Manjeev Puri led the Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary celebrations.

A “Padd Yatra” was organised in Yangon, Myanmar on Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti. The event was inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Saurabh Kumar and Yangon Cheif Minister U Phyo Min Thein.

Celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's birthday was organized at the Sari Mutiara University by the Indian mission in Indonesia. Indian envoy to Indonesia Pradeep Kumar Rawat inaugurated a bronze bust of Mahatma Gandhi which is placed prominently in the middle of this renowned University.

Central Asia also saw celebrations. Indian envoy to Kyrgyzstan Amitabh Dimri led the celebrations in capital Bishkek. A special programme was organised at the University of Central Asia in Bishkek. Indian mission in Kazakhstan organised an innovative way of remembering Gandhi by organising a painting competition in schools in which themes were Mahatma Gandhi, World Peace, India etc. Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Prabhat Kumar distributed prizes to winners of Painting Competition and led the celebrations.

In South Africa, from where Gandhi began his journey as a mass leader program was organised at the constitution hill in Johannesburg. The area houses the prison complex were Gandhi was jailed but now houses the supreme constitutional court of South Africa.

Europe was abuzz with several activities.

London saw the celebration at Tavistock Place. Indian envoy Ruchi Ghanashyam along with Indian diaspora participated in full strength. Senior Deputy Speaker of UK House of Lords Lord McFall, Baroness Blackstone paid tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at parliament square in front of the British Parliament. The event was organised by Lord Meghnad Desai.

Indian Ambassador to Netherlands Venu Rajamony led the Gandhi March for Non-Violence through capital The Hague to highlight the importance of the message of non-violence. Around 300 school children and 150 adults took part in the march.

In Geneva, a ‘Gandhi Room’ has been set up in the Permanent Mission of India with an exhibit of photographs and documentaries depicting the life and journey of Mahatma Gandhi.

New Zealand was one of the first countries to celebrate Gandhi's birth anniversary. Indian envoy Muktesh Pardeshi led the celebration and said, "the presence of people from all walks of life at events held in Wellington underline the relevance of Gandhi Ji's philosophy and values".

In the United States, a major programme on Mahatma Gandhi will be celebrated in the historic Library of Congress with the speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar taking part in the ceremony.

Palestine, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Russia and Turkey issued a commemorative stamp on Mahatma Gandhi.

October 2 is the international day of non-violence and at the United Nations headquarters an event took place on "climate action: Gandhian way".

''His vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the United Nations for mutual understanding, equality, sustainable development, the empowerment of young people, and the peaceful resolution of disputes”, Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message commemorating the day.

Last week at the united nations PM Modi inaugurated Gandhi Solar Park on the roof of the world body and delivered a lecture on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World.

PM Modi in his address talked about the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to the cause of greater human freedom in the 20th century.

The prime minister said, "Mahatma Gandhi never held positions of power. Yet, he motivates people around the world. Millions of people, several nations drew strength from his ideals and attained freedom."

Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, Jamaica's PM Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern participated in the event.

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events. In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy.

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events. In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. Deputy Chairman of State Duma Sergey Neverov along with Indian Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma were present on the occasion. Bala Venkatesh Varma thanked the State Duma for the opportunity to hold such an exhibition, saying ''Leo Tolstoy had a huge influence on Mahatma Gandhi, and their friendship became a symbol of friendship between the two great peoples of India and Russia.” Mahatma Gandhi considered Leo Tolstoy as one of the most important people who influenced his life. In Jeddah, Consul General Noor Rahman Sheikh led the celebrations by paying tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi. Padmashree Nouf Marwaai, the first female yoga practitioner of Saudi Arabia was also present during the occasion. A big event was organised by the Indian mission in Guyana involving the prime minister, two ex-presidents of the country by the Indian mission led by envoy Dr K J Srinivasa. The iconic Burj Khalifa was lit up with a special LED projection for one hour to pay tribute to the father of the nation. In the neighbourhood, celebrations happened in all capitals. On the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian Embassy in Kabul organised a ''Swachhta Hi Seva'' campaign. Ambassador Vinay Kumar and Embassy Officials did Shramdaan to promote Gandhiji’s idea of cleanliness and environmental protection. Afghan Post in collaboration with the Indian Embassy issued a commemorative stamp. Afghan Minister for Communication and Information Technology Fahim Hashimy and Ambassador Kumar jointly unveiled the stamp in the Embassy. In Sri Lanka, a special programme was held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo in which Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena and High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu participated. Gandhi Bust made of bronze was unveiled at Temple Tree, the official residence of Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. In Bangladesh, Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni was the chief guest at the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at the High Commission in Dhaka. Indian high commissioner Riva Ganguly Das handed over the book ''Vaishnav Jan Toh Tene Kahiye'' to Rabindra Sangeet singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya. Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Indian envoy to Nepal Manjeev Puri led the Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary celebrations. A “Padd Yatra” was organised in Yangon, Myanmar on Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti. The event was inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Saurabh Kumar and Yangon Cheif Minister U Phyo Min Thein. Celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's birthday was organized at the Sari Mutiara University by the Indian mission in Indonesia. Indian envoy to Indonesia Pradeep Kumar Rawat inaugurated a bronze bust of Mahatma Gandhi which is placed prominently in the middle of this renowned University. Central Asia also saw celebrations. Indian envoy to Kyrgyzstan Amitabh Dimri led the celebrations in capital Bishkek. A special programme was organised at the University of Central Asia in Bishkek. Indian mission in Kazakhstan organised an innovative way of remembering Gandhi by organising a painting competition in schools in which themes were Mahatma Gandhi, World Peace, India etc. Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Prabhat Kumar distributed prizes to winners of Painting Competition and led the celebrations. In South Africa, from where Gandhi began his journey as a mass leader program was organised at the constitution hill in Johannesburg. The area houses the prison complex were Gandhi was jailed but now houses the supreme constitutional court of South Africa. Europe was abuzz with several activities. London saw the celebration at Tavistock Place. Indian envoy Ruchi Ghanashyam along with Indian diaspora participated in full strength. Senior Deputy Speaker of UK House of Lords Lord McFall, Baroness Blackstone paid tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at parliament square in front of the British Parliament. The event was organised by Lord Meghnad Desai. Indian Ambassador to Netherlands Venu Rajamony led the Gandhi March for Non-Violence through capital The Hague to highlight the importance of the message of non-violence. Around 300 school children and 150 adults took part in the march. In Geneva, a ‘Gandhi Room’ has been set up in the Permanent Mission of India with an exhibit of photographs and documentaries depicting the life and journey of Mahatma Gandhi. New Zealand was one of the first countries to celebrate Gandhi's birth anniversary. Indian envoy Muktesh Pardeshi led the celebration and said, "the presence of people from all walks of life at events held in Wellington underline the relevance of Gandhi Ji's philosophy and values". In the United States, a major programme on Mahatma Gandhi will be celebrated in the historic Library of Congress with the speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar taking part in the ceremony. Palestine, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Russia and Turkey issued a commemorative stamp on Mahatma Gandhi. October 2 is the international day of non-violence and at the United Nations headquarters an event took place on "climate action: Gandhian way". ''His vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the United Nations for mutual understanding, equality, sustainable development, the empowerment of young people, and the peaceful resolution of disputes”, Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message commemorating the day. Last week at the united nations PM Modi inaugurated Gandhi Solar Park on the roof of the world body and delivered a lecture on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World. PM Modi in his address talked about the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to the cause of greater human freedom in the 20th century. The prime minister said, "Mahatma Gandhi never held positions of power. Yet, he motivates people around the world. Millions of people, several nations drew strength from his ideals and attained freedom." Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, Jamaica's PM Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern participated in the event.

From Moscow to London, Washington to Kabul: How global capitals went abuzz on Gandhi Jayanti

India has held off imposing a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-upcoming-plastic-ban-will-bring-cheer-to-many-despair-to-some-252781">blanket ban on single-use plastics to combat pollution</a>, officials said on Tuesday, a measure seen as too disruptive for the industry at a time when it is coping with an economic slowdown and job losses.

The plan was for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to outlaw six items on Wednesday, the 150th anniversary of the birth of independence leader Mahatma&nbsp;Gandhi, as part of a broader campaign to rid India of single-use plastics by 2022.

But two officials said there would be no immediate move to ban plastic bags, cups, plates, small bottles, straws and certain types of sachets and instead the government would try to curb their use.

For now, the government will ask states to enforce existing rules against storing, manufacturing and using some single-use plastic products such as polythene bags and styrofoam, Chandra Kishore Mishra, the top bureaucrat at the ministry of environment, told Reuters.

"There is no new ban order being issued," Mishra said. "Now, it's a question of telling people about the ill-effects of plastic, of collecting and sending for recycling so people don't litter", he added.

The government's proposed countrywide ban had dismayed consumer firms, which use plastic in packaging for everything from sodas and biscuits to ketchup and shampoo.

The Confederation of Indian Industry, a lobby group, said the move had become an existential issue for several economic sectors because alternatives were not immediately available.

It said small-sized plastic bottles used for pharmaceutical or health products should be exempted as there is no alternative available. Sachets made from so-called multi-layered packaging should also not be banned, as that could disrupt supplies of products like biscuits, salt and milk, the confederation said.

"There was a conscious decision within the government not to hit businesses hard for now and discourage the use of plastic only on a voluntary basis," said an official working on policy. He declined to be identified in line with government rules.

Plastic waste is at epidemic proportions in the world's oceans with an estimated 100 million tonnes dumped there to date, according to the United Nations. Scientists have found large amounts of microplastic in the intestines of deep-dwelling ocean mammals like whales.

India, which uses about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-running-a-big-campaign-to-free-the-country-of-single-use-plastic-pm-modi-at-unga-252498">14 million tonnes of plastic annually</a>, lacks an organised system for management of plastic waste, leading to widespread littering.

"The toxins, poisons and persistent pollutants present in some of these plastic products leach and enter human bodies where they cause several diseases, including cancer," said Chitra Mukherjee, head of advocacy and policy at Delhi-based Chintan Environmental Research and Action Group.

India has held off imposing a blanket ban on single-use plastics to combat pollution, officials said on Tuesday, a measure seen as too disruptive for the industry at a time when it is coping with an economic slowdown and job losses.

India has held off imposing a blanket ban on single-use plastics to combat pollution, officials said on Tuesday, a measure seen as too disruptive for the industry at a time when it is coping with an economic slowdown and job losses. The plan was for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to outlaw six items on Wednesday, the 150th anniversary of the birth of independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, as part of a broader campaign to rid India of single-use plastics by 2022. But two officials said there would be no immediate move to ban plastic bags, cups, plates, small bottles, straws and certain types of sachets and instead the government would try to curb their use. For now, the government will ask states to enforce existing rules against storing, manufacturing and using some single-use plastic products such as polythene bags and styrofoam, Chandra Kishore Mishra, the top bureaucrat at the ministry of environment, told Reuters. "There is no new ban order being issued," Mishra said. "Now, it's a question of telling people about the ill-effects of plastic, of collecting and sending for recycling so people don't litter", he added. The government's proposed countrywide ban had dismayed consumer firms, which use plastic in packaging for everything from sodas and biscuits to ketchup and shampoo. The Confederation of Indian Industry, a lobby group, said the move had become an existential issue for several economic sectors because alternatives were not immediately available. It said small-sized plastic bottles used for pharmaceutical or health products should be exempted as there is no alternative available. Sachets made from so-called multi-layered packaging should also not be banned, as that could disrupt supplies of products like biscuits, salt and milk, the confederation said. "There was a conscious decision within the government not to hit businesses hard for now and discourage the use of plastic only on a voluntary basis," said an official working on policy. He declined to be identified in line with government rules. Plastic waste is at epidemic proportions in the world's oceans with an estimated 100 million tonnes dumped there to date, according to the United Nations. Scientists have found large amounts of microplastic in the intestines of deep-dwelling ocean mammals like whales. India, which uses about 14 million tonnes of plastic annually, lacks an organised system for management of plastic waste, leading to widespread littering. "The toxins, poisons and persistent pollutants present in some of these plastic products leach and enter human bodies where they cause several diseases, including cancer," said Chitra Mukherjee, head of advocacy and policy at Delhi-based Chintan Environmental Research and Action Group.

India delays plan to ban single-use plastic countrywide

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-the-champion-of-non-violent-activism-253152">Mahatma Gandhi</a> at Raj Ghat on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary.

Modi was received by BJP working President JP Nadda, Union Minister for Commerce Piyush Goyal and Minister of State (MoS) independent charge, Hardeep Singh Puri at Raj Ghat.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also paid floral tributes to Mahatma at his final resting place.

The Prime Minister then left for Vijay Ghat to pay tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his 115th birth anniversary.

Many other dignitaries including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani also reached Rajghat to pay tribute to Gandhi.

Watch: PM Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat

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Both Congress and BJP are organising a number of events throughout the country to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months.

As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will culminate on January 31, 2020.

Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and October 31.

Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary.

Posters, banners and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. PM Modi is scheduled to kick-off the program from Gujarat. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary. Modi was received by BJP working President JP Nadda, Union Minister for Commerce Piyush Goyal and Minister of State (MoS) independent charge, Hardeep Singh Puri at Raj Ghat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary. Modi was received by BJP working President JP Nadda, Union Minister for Commerce Piyush Goyal and Minister of State (MoS) independent charge, Hardeep Singh Puri at Raj Ghat. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also paid floral tributes to Mahatma at his final resting place. The Prime Minister then left for Vijay Ghat to pay tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his 115th birth anniversary. Many other dignitaries including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani also reached Rajghat to pay tribute to Gandhi. Watch: PM Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat × Both Congress and BJP are organising a number of events throughout the country to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will culminate on January 31, 2020. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and October 31. Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. PM Modi is scheduled to kick-off the program from Gujarat.

PM Narendra Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat

India and Singapore have moved from competition to collaboration, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-has-great-expectations-from-india-tamil-still-resonates-in-the-us-pm-modi-at-iit-madras-252768">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> said at Singapore-India Hackathon&nbsp;at IIT-Madras on Monday. 
 
"Last year during my visit to Singapore, I was told that the focus of the hackathon was competition. This year, the emphasis is on collaboration and complementing each other's efforts. So it can be safely said that we have moved from competition to collaboration," Prime Minister Modi said. 
 
The event, an initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is the first of its kind joint international hackathon between India and any other country. The 36-hour long event, which started on Saturday will conclude today. 
 
This year, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras hosted the hackathon, which focussed on three themes -- good health and well-being, quality education, and affordable and clean energy. 
 
The hackathon had 20 teams of three university students each from India and Singapore for exchange of culture and ideas. 
 
Calling the idea a grand success, the Prime Minister said that such events bring together government departments, industry people and all premier institutes like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). 
 
He also cited various programmes implemented by the central government such as Atal Innovation Mission, which promote innovation and entrepreneurship across the country. 
 
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-can-become-a-major-tourism-destination-by-2022-pm-modi-252678">Prime Minister</a> said India is encouraging innovation and incubation for two big reasons -- one for easy solutions to solve India's problems to make life easier and another to find solutions for the whole world. 
 
He asserted that India's goal is to make "Indian solutions for global application". 
 
Prime Minister Modi further said that his government will propose a similar hackathon to those Asian countries, which are keen to participate to offer innovative solutions for reducing 'global warming and climate change'. 
 
Impressed with projects developed by the students during the hackathon, the Prime Minister said he particularly liked the system that detects the person paying attention. 
"I will talk to my Speaker in the Parliament. I am sure it will be very useful to Parliament", he said. 
 
Congratulating the Singapore Education Minister, organisers and students associated with the hackathon, he said, "today's hackathon is the start-up idea for tomorrow". 
 
Later, the Prime Minister visited the campus and reviewed the innovations and technology developed by the students.

India and Singapore have moved from competition to collaboration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at Singapore-India Hackathon at IIT-Madras on Monday. "Last year during my visit to Singapore, I was told that the focus of the hackathon was competition.

India and Singapore have moved from competition to collaboration, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at Singapore-India Hackathon at IIT-Madras on Monday. "Last year during my visit to Singapore, I was told that the focus of the hackathon was competition. This year, the emphasis is on collaboration and complementing each other's efforts. So it can be safely said that we have moved from competition to collaboration," Prime Minister Modi said. The event, an initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is the first of its kind joint international hackathon between India and any other country. The 36-hour long event, which started on Saturday will conclude today. This year, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras hosted the hackathon, which focussed on three themes -- good health and well-being, quality education, and affordable and clean energy. The hackathon had 20 teams of three university students each from India and Singapore for exchange of culture and ideas. Calling the idea a grand success, the Prime Minister said that such events bring together government departments, industry people and all premier institutes like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He also cited various programmes implemented by the central government such as Atal Innovation Mission, which promote innovation and entrepreneurship across the country. The Prime Minister said India is encouraging innovation and incubation for two big reasons -- one for easy solutions to solve India's problems to make life easier and another to find solutions for the whole world. He asserted that India's goal is to make "Indian solutions for global application". Prime Minister Modi further said that his government will propose a similar hackathon to those Asian countries, which are keen to participate to offer innovative solutions for reducing 'global warming and climate change'. Impressed with projects developed by the students during the hackathon, the Prime Minister said he particularly liked the system that detects the person paying attention. "I will talk to my Speaker in the Parliament. I am sure it will be very useful to Parliament", he said. Congratulating the Singapore Education Minister, organisers and students associated with the hackathon, he said, "today's hackathon is the start-up idea for tomorrow". Later, the Prime Minister visited the campus and reviewed the innovations and technology developed by the students.

India, Singapore moved from competition to collaboration, says Prime Minister Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the world has great expectations from India, and his government will lead the country to a path of 'greatness' where it will be beneficial to the entire world.

Addressing the 56th annual convocation of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras PM said "I am always delighted to be back in Chennai. After 2019 elections, it is my first visit to the state. I am really thankful to all of you for such a warm welcome."

"During my US tour I saw the world has great expectations from India, which is growing... we will certainly ensure the welfare of India, and swiftly, but we will make it such a great nation that it will be useful for the world," he said.

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Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 56th convocation of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami &amp; Dy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also present. <a href="https://t.co/unSeKofAIr">pic.twitter.com/unSeKofAIr</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> "My young friends here solved many problems today. I specially like the solution about camera to detect who is paying attention. I will talk to my Speaker in the Parliament. I am sure it will be very useful to Parliament", says PM at Singapore-India Hackathon at IIT-Madras <a href="https://t.co/mheXdLaPGo">pic.twitter.com/mheXdLaPGo</a>
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"During my visit to the United States of America, when I said something in Tamil and I told the world that Tamil is one of the world's oldest languages, so even today, the language resonates across the United States," he added.

On Sunday, the PM tweeted seeking ideas for the speech he will deliver at the convocation ceremony.

Appreciating the winners of the Singapore-India Hackathon 2019 PM said that I congratulate the winners of the Hackathon and each and every young friend assembled here. Your willingness to confront challenges &amp; find workable solutions is of much great value than just winning a challenge.

Describing the hackathon a great mix of youth power and innovation, he said it brings together the finest young minds finding long-lasting solutions to the problems India faces.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the world has great expectations from India, and his government will lead the country to a path of 'greatness' where it will be beneficial to the entire world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the world has great expectations from India, and his government will lead the country to a path of 'greatness' where it will be beneficial to the entire world. Addressing the 56th annual convocation of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras PM said "I am always delighted to be back in Chennai. After 2019 elections, it is my first visit to the state. I am really thankful to all of you for such a warm welcome." "During my US tour I saw the world has great expectations from India, which is growing... we will certainly ensure the welfare of India, and swiftly, but we will make it such a great nation that it will be useful for the world," he said. Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 56th convocation of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami & Dy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam also present. pic.twitter.com/unSeKofAIr — ANI (@ANI) September 30, 2019 × #WATCH "My young friends here solved many problems today. I specially like the solution about camera to detect who is paying attention. I will talk to my Speaker in the Parliament. I am sure it will be very useful to Parliament", says PM at Singapore-India Hackathon at IIT-Madras pic.twitter.com/mheXdLaPGo — ANI (@ANI) September 30, 2019 × "During my visit to the United States of America, when I said something in Tamil and I told the world that Tamil is one of the world's oldest languages, so even today, the language resonates across the United States," he added. On Sunday, the PM tweeted seeking ideas for the speech he will deliver at the convocation ceremony. Appreciating the winners of the Singapore-India Hackathon 2019 PM said that I congratulate the winners of the Hackathon and each and every young friend assembled here. Your willingness to confront challenges & find workable solutions is of much great value than just winning a challenge. Describing the hackathon a great mix of youth power and innovation, he said it brings together the finest young minds finding long-lasting solutions to the problems India faces.

World has great expectations from India, Tamil still resonates in the US: PM Modi at IIT Madras

Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 57th radio broadcast address 'Mann Ki Baat', Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday said that Modi has assumed the role of a motivator for the masses of the nation.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi's small act of talking to people via phone on Mann Ki Baat is a great move. He has assumed the role of transforming the society; this is also the first time that I have seen a Prime Minister calling up Lata Mangashekarji on her birthday. She is a Bharat Ratna awardee but nobody else had bothered to inquire about her, these gestures mean a lot," Tiwari said.

The BJP leader added that after listening to the Prime Minister's Mann ki Baat program it felt that the Prime Minister was aware of the needs of the society and was taking them into account.

"After listening to PM Modi's Mann ki Baat it feels that he exactly knows what is going on in the country, his beautiful message for Diwali to help others during the festive season and to honour our daughters is a great move as well," Tiwari said.

Speaking about Modi's speech he added, "The Prime Minister also touched upon Ripudaman's achievement and introduced us to plogging, we will echo these thoughts and this will change the society.

He also talked about the ill-effects of e-cigarettes; even I was unaware of its harms. Narendra Modiji is working as an uplifter of the society, and India is proud of that."

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Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 57th radio broadcast address 'Mann Ki Baat', Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday said that Modi has assumed the role of a motivator for the masses of the nation.

Hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 57th radio broadcast address 'Mann Ki Baat', Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari on Sunday said that Modi has assumed the role of a motivator for the masses of the nation. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi's small act of talking to people via phone on Mann Ki Baat is a great move. He has assumed the role of transforming the society; this is also the first time that I have seen a Prime Minister calling up Lata Mangashekarji on her birthday. She is a Bharat Ratna awardee but nobody else had bothered to inquire about her, these gestures mean a lot," Tiwari said. The BJP leader added that after listening to the Prime Minister's Mann ki Baat program it felt that the Prime Minister was aware of the needs of the society and was taking them into account. "After listening to PM Modi's Mann ki Baat it feels that he exactly knows what is going on in the country, his beautiful message for Diwali to help others during the festive season and to honour our daughters is a great move as well," Tiwari said. Speaking about Modi's speech he added, "The Prime Minister also touched upon Ripudaman's achievement and introduced us to plogging, we will echo these thoughts and this will change the society. He also talked about the ill-effects of e-cigarettes; even I was unaware of its harms. Narendra Modiji is working as an uplifter of the society, and India is proud of that."

PM Modi working hard towards transforming society: Manoj Tiwari

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India`s rank on the Travel and Tourism Competitive Index has jumped to 34 from 65, adding that it could become one of the major tourist destinations by 2022 with the countrymen`s support.

"September 27 was celebrated as #WorldTourismDay and you will be happy to know that certain reputed tourism agencies of the world, which rank standards of travel and tourism have shown that India has displayed a lot of improvement in the Travel and Tourism Competitive Index," Modi said in his 57th episode of monthly radio address 'Mann Ki Baat'.

"Our rank is 34 on this index, whereas, five years ago we were ranked 65th, which in a way is a big jump. If we tried all that harder, then by the 75th year of our independence (2022), we would have carved a place for ourselves amidst the major tourist destinations of the world," he continued.

The Prime Minister also reiterated his appeal to the people to travel at least 15 destinations within the country by 2022. Last month, Modi had made this appeal from the ramparts of Red Fort on Independence Day.

"My dear countrymen, you will remember, that on August 15, I had in my address said from the ramparts of Red Fort that by 2022, you should visit 15 tourist destinations in India," Modi said.

The Prime Minister added that this exercise will help people in understanding and getting a grip on the diversity in the country."At least 15 places and if possible, make a program to stay over there for an overnight, two-night stay. You should observe, understand and experience India. We have so much diversity," he said.&nbsp; 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India`s rank on the Travel and Tourism Competitive Index has jumped to 34 from 65, adding that it could become one of the major tourist destinations by 2022 with the countrymen`s support.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India`s rank on the Travel and Tourism Competitive Index has jumped to 34 from 65, adding that it could become one of the major tourist destinations by 2022 with the countrymen`s support. "September 27 was celebrated as #WorldTourismDay and you will be happy to know that certain reputed tourism agencies of the world, which rank standards of travel and tourism have shown that India has displayed a lot of improvement in the Travel and Tourism Competitive Index," Modi said in his 57th episode of monthly radio address 'Mann Ki Baat'. "Our rank is 34 on this index, whereas, five years ago we were ranked 65th, which in a way is a big jump. If we tried all that harder, then by the 75th year of our independence (2022), we would have carved a place for ourselves amidst the major tourist destinations of the world," he continued. The Prime Minister also reiterated his appeal to the people to travel at least 15 destinations within the country by 2022. Last month, Modi had made this appeal from the ramparts of Red Fort on Independence Day. "My dear countrymen, you will remember, that on August 15, I had in my address said from the ramparts of Red Fort that by 2022, you should visit 15 tourist destinations in India," Modi said. The Prime Minister added that this exercise will help people in understanding and getting a grip on the diversity in the country."At least 15 places and if possible, make a program to stay over there for an overnight, two-night stay. You should observe, understand and experience India. We have so much diversity," he said.

India can become a major tourism destination by 2022: PM Modi

Legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the latest edition of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-gives-call-for-bharatkilaxmi-campain-to-honor-achievements-of-daughters-of-the-nation-252663">Mann Ki Baat radio broadcast</a> on Sunday.

"I have a very special guest joining us today during #MannKiBaat. Do tune in at 11 AM," Modi had tweeted earlier.

Mangeshkar featured on the show with the Prime Minister via call just a day after celebrating her 90th birthday on September 28.

Modi has previously hosted former US President Barack Obama as a special guest on the broadcast in January 2015.

Obama had shared personal stories and gave insights regarding what it takes to achieve life goals.

The first episode of the monthly radio programme was broadcasted in October 2014, after Modi came into power for his first term in office.

The broadcast was temporarily discontinued ahead of 2019 general elections following the implementation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC).

The monthly radio broadcast resumed on June 30 this year after the leader assumed office for a second term.

Toll-free telephone lines were introduced in September 2015 for connecting more people, especially the differently-abled.

The monthly programme broadcast on the entire network of AIR and Doordarshan. It is also live-streamed on official YouTube channels of the Prime Minister's Office, Information and Broadcasting Ministry.&nbsp;

Legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the latest edition of the Mann Ki Baat radio broadcast on Sunday. "I have a very special guest joining us today during #MannKiBaat.

Legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the latest edition of the Mann Ki Baat radio broadcast on Sunday. "I have a very special guest joining us today during #MannKiBaat. Do tune in at 11 AM," Modi had tweeted earlier. Mangeshkar featured on the show with the Prime Minister via call just a day after celebrating her 90th birthday on September 28. Modi has previously hosted former US President Barack Obama as a special guest on the broadcast in January 2015. Obama had shared personal stories and gave insights regarding what it takes to achieve life goals. The first episode of the monthly radio programme was broadcasted in October 2014, after Modi came into power for his first term in office. The broadcast was temporarily discontinued ahead of 2019 general elections following the implementation of Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The monthly radio broadcast resumed on June 30 this year after the leader assumed office for a second term. Toll-free telephone lines were introduced in September 2015 for connecting more people, especially the differently-abled. The monthly programme broadcast on the entire network of AIR and Doordarshan. It is also live-streamed on official YouTube channels of the Prime Minister's Office, Information and Broadcasting Ministry.

'Special guest' Lata Mangeshkar joins PM Modi for 'Mann Ki Baat'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-gives-call-for-bharatkilaxmi-campain-to-honor-achievements-of-daughters-of-the-nation-252663">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Sunday said that there was a misconception about e-cigarette and the government has banned it to save the "young country" from the "new method of intoxication".

During his monthly "Mann Ki Baat" radio address, Modi said people are not aware of the harms of e-cigarette which contains several harmful chemicals.

"E-cigarette has been banned so that this new method of intoxication cannot destroy our young country. So that it cannot smash the dreams the families and shatter the lives of our youth," Modi said.

He said people are aware of the harms of the tobacco cigarette so they make every bid to save their children from cigarette addiction but they do not pay much heed if their family members use an electronic cigarette as they are not aware of its harms.

Modi said, "Many harmful chemicals are mixed in e-cigarette which harms our health. A misconception has been created about E-cigarette. It is said that there is no harm in e-cigarette use. People are not aware of its dangers."

Stating that the youth often use e-cigarette as a fashion statement, Modi urged people to shun it while outlining the ill effects of tobacco."I request you all to shun tobacco use and stay away from e-cigarette," he said.

On September 18, the Union Cabinet had approved an ordinance for a comprehensive ban on e-cigarettes which covers their production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertisement.

The ban includes e-hookahs and online sale and advertisement of e-cigarettes.

Violations are a cognizable offence punishable with an imprisonment of up to one year or fine up to Rs 1 lakh or both for the first offence and imprisonment of up to three years and fine up to Rs 5 lakh for a subsequent offence.

Storage of electronic-cigarettes shall also be punishable with imprisonment up to 6 months or fine up to Rs 50,000 or both.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that there was a misconception about e-cigarette and the government has banned it to save the "young country" from the "new method of intoxication".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that there was a misconception about e-cigarette and the government has banned it to save the "young country" from the "new method of intoxication". During his monthly "Mann Ki Baat" radio address, Modi said people are not aware of the harms of e-cigarette which contains several harmful chemicals. "E-cigarette has been banned so that this new method of intoxication cannot destroy our young country. So that it cannot smash the dreams the families and shatter the lives of our youth," Modi said. He said people are aware of the harms of the tobacco cigarette so they make every bid to save their children from cigarette addiction but they do not pay much heed if their family members use an electronic cigarette as they are not aware of its harms. Modi said, "Many harmful chemicals are mixed in e-cigarette which harms our health. A misconception has been created about E-cigarette. It is said that there is no harm in e-cigarette use. People are not aware of its dangers." Stating that the youth often use e-cigarette as a fashion statement, Modi urged people to shun it while outlining the ill effects of tobacco."I request you all to shun tobacco use and stay away from e-cigarette," he said. On September 18, the Union Cabinet had approved an ordinance for a comprehensive ban on e-cigarettes which covers their production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage and advertisement. The ban includes e-hookahs and online sale and advertisement of e-cigarettes. Violations are a cognizable offence punishable with an imprisonment of up to one year or fine up to Rs 1 lakh or both for the first offence and imprisonment of up to three years and fine up to Rs 5 lakh for a subsequent offence. Storage of electronic-cigarettes shall also be punishable with imprisonment up to 6 months or fine up to Rs 50,000 or both.

E-cigarette ban aimed at saving youth from 'new form of intoxication': PM Modi

17 minutes of PM Modi speech at UNGA: Key highlights

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Delhi on Saturday after a week-long visit&nbsp;at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-pm-imran-khans-unga-speech-reflection-of-medieval-mindset-abuse-of-opportunity-to-reflect-india-at-un-252555">United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)</a> in New York&nbsp;where he discussed bilateral issues with prominent leaders of the world and spoke extensively about curbing terrorism and decelerating climate change.

The PM was received by the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) working President JP Nadda. &nbsp;Delhi BJP President Manoj Tiwari was also present to receive him.

Before he showed up, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-people-gather-in-large-numbers-outside-airport-to-welcome-pm-modi-252620">people turned up in large numbers</a> outside Palam Technical Airport to welcome the Indian prime minister.

Many were seen chanting slogans "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi" in anticipation of PM's arrival.

"We are here to receive to Modiji. We are very excited to see him," Surya Kumar, a BJP worker told ANI.

The PM arrived in an Air India flight at 8pm (IST) and deboarded thirty minutes later.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Delhi, after concluding his visit to the United States of America. <a href="https://t.co/mjqF4jspn3">pic.twitter.com/mjqF4jspn3</a>
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In the backdrop of the&nbsp;excitement surrounding his return, Delhi Police had put into place elaborate security arrangements for PM Modi's arrival.

"Nine companies of para-military forces have been deployed in the national capital. Anti-terror measures have also been taken. The security arrangements will be in order in coordination with all agencies. Snipers will be deployed on rooftops," MS Randhawa, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Delhi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Delhi on Saturday after a week-long visit at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York where he discussed bilateral issues with prominent leaders of the world and spoke extensively about curbing terrorism and decelerating climate change.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Delhi on Saturday after a week-long visit at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York where he discussed bilateral issues with prominent leaders of the world and spoke extensively about curbing terrorism and decelerating climate change. The PM was received by the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) working President JP Nadda. Delhi BJP President Manoj Tiwari was also present to receive him. Before he showed up, people turned up in large numbers outside Palam Technical Airport to welcome the Indian prime minister. Many were seen chanting slogans "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi" in anticipation of PM's arrival. "We are here to receive to Modiji. We are very excited to see him," Surya Kumar, a BJP worker told ANI. The PM arrived in an Air India flight at 8pm (IST) and deboarded thirty minutes later. #WATCH Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Delhi, after concluding his visit to the United States of America. pic.twitter.com/mjqF4jspn3 — ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2019 × In the backdrop of the excitement surrounding his return, Delhi Police had put into place elaborate security arrangements for PM Modi's arrival. "Nine companies of para-military forces have been deployed in the national capital. Anti-terror measures have also been taken. The security arrangements will be in order in coordination with all agencies. Snipers will be deployed on rooftops," MS Randhawa, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Delhi said.

Prime Minister Modi arrives in India after UNGA in New York

People turned up in large numbers outside Palam Technical Airport to welcome <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-pm-modis-positive-development-driven-unga-address-differed-from-pak-pms-hate-speech-252559">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> who is returning after a week-long visit US visit. 
 
People, some of them who came wearing colourful clothes raised slogans "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi"&nbsp;as they danced to beats of drums at the cultural programme organised by the BJP Delhi unit at the Palam airport. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari was also present in the event. 
 
"We are here to receive to Modi Ji. We are very excited to see him," Surya Kumar, a BJP worker told ANI. 
 
Holding national flags in their hands, people chanted 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and said Modi brought glory to the country. The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive at 8 PM. 
 
However, some commuters <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/buddha-and-not-yudh-pm-modis-message-of-peace-at-unga-252539">faced inconvenience</a> as the programme led to a massive traffic snarl on the Delhi-Gurgaon road. 
 
Delhi Police has put into place elaborate security arrangements for the Prime Minister's return. 
 
"Nine companies of para-military forces have been deployed in the national capital. Anti-terror measures have also been taken. The security arrangements will be in order in coordination with all agencies. Snipers will be deployed on rooftops," MS Randhawa, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Delhi said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-is-the-biggest-global-challenge-for-humanitys-sake-lets-unite-against-terrorism-says-pm-narendra-modi-at-unga-252493">Modi on Friday emplaned for New Delhi from New York</a>, after delivering a speech at the 74th session of the United Nations&nbsp;General Assembly.

People turned up in large numbers outside Palam Technical Airport to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is returning after a week-long visit US visit. People, some of them who came wearing colourful clothes raised slogans "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi" as they danced to beats of drums at the cultural programme organised by the BJP Delhi unit at the Palam airport.

People turned up in large numbers outside Palam Technical Airport to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is returning after a week-long visit US visit. People, some of them who came wearing colourful clothes raised slogans "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi" as they danced to beats of drums at the cultural programme organised by the BJP Delhi unit at the Palam airport. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari was also present in the event. "We are here to receive to Modi Ji. We are very excited to see him," Surya Kumar, a BJP worker told ANI. Holding national flags in their hands, people chanted 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and said Modi brought glory to the country. The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive at 8 PM. However, some commuters faced inconvenience as the programme led to a massive traffic snarl on the Delhi-Gurgaon road. Delhi Police has put into place elaborate security arrangements for the Prime Minister's return. "Nine companies of para-military forces have been deployed in the national capital. Anti-terror measures have also been taken. The security arrangements will be in order in coordination with all agencies. Snipers will be deployed on rooftops," MS Randhawa, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Central Delhi said. Modi on Friday emplaned for New Delhi from New York, after delivering a speech at the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Delhi: People gather in large numbers outside airport to welcome PM Modi

In a scathing attack on Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-endorses-billboards-on-kashmir-at-new-yorks-times-square-252388">Imran Khan</a> over his address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), BJP lawmaker Subramanian Swamy on Saturday said it was a "roadside speech" and made under apparent pressure from the country's Army. 
 
"He was speaking like he is addressing some people on the road. It was a very bad speech and only people sitting in the visitor's gallery were clapping. In the United Nations, you cannot comment on domestic politics (of another country) but should speak on international issues," Swamy said while talking to the media here. 
 
He was answering queries from reporters at the Rouse Avenue Court in New Delhi where he had gone in connection with the National Herald case. 
 
Swamy said that the speech might make some "uneducated people" in Pakistan happy and they may call it a brave speech. 
 
"Maybe he gave such a speech due to the pressure by Pakistan Army," he added. 
 
Swamy said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-pm-modis-positive-development-driven-unga-address-differed-from-pak-pms-hate-speech-252559">his speech at the UNGA</a>, spoke very well and spoke on various relevant issues.

In a scathing attack on Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan over his address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), BJP lawmaker Subramanian Swamy on Saturday said it was a "roadside speech" and made under apparent pressure from the country's Army.

In a scathing attack on Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan over his address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), BJP lawmaker Subramanian Swamy on Saturday said it was a "roadside speech" and made under apparent pressure from the country's Army. "He was speaking like he is addressing some people on the road. It was a very bad speech and only people sitting in the visitor's gallery were clapping. In the United Nations, you cannot comment on domestic politics (of another country) but should speak on international issues," Swamy said while talking to the media here. He was answering queries from reporters at the Rouse Avenue Court in New Delhi where he had gone in connection with the National Herald case. Swamy said that the speech might make some "uneducated people" in Pakistan happy and they may call it a brave speech. "Maybe he gave such a speech due to the pressure by Pakistan Army," he added. Swamy said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his speech at the UNGA, spoke very well and spoke on various relevant issues.

Subramaniam Swamy calls Imran Khan's UNGA address 'roadside speech'

India and Bangladesh on Friday reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries.

The commitment to act tough on terror was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

"The leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and violent extremism, and agreed that a strong partnership in security had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries," a press statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

Hasina extended an invitation to Modi to visit Bangladesh, which was accepted by the Prime Minister.

"Bangladesh Prime Minister extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Bangladesh and suggested that it could be undertaken also in connection with the birth centenary of Bangabandhu, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The invitation was accepted by Prime Minister Modi," the statement said.

Watch: The contrasting tales of two prime ministers

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Earlier, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted, "Concluding the #UNGA week by meeting a close neighbour. PM @narendramodi had an excellent meeting with Bangladeshi PM #SheikhHasina. The leaders took stock of the rapidly expanding multifaceted bilateral relationship."

Modi has now departed for India, capping off a hectic week-long visit in the US where he held back-to-back meetings with world leaders, including his counterparts from Italy, Greece and Iran to name a few.

He also met US President Donald Trump twice during his visit, jointly addressing the mega 'Howdy Modi' event with the former business mogul on Sunday and holding a bilateral meet on Tuesday.

The Prime Minister was also honoured with the Global Gatekeeper Award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for his contributions to the cleanliness drive and efforts to improve access to sanitation in India through Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

Modi also gave his maiden address at the 74th session of the UNGA on Friday after coming to power for a second five-year term. He also participated in several multilateral meetings and addressed the UN Climate Action Summit on Monday, where he reaffirmed India's support to the fight against climate change. (ANI)

India and Bangladesh on Friday reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries.

India and Bangladesh on Friday reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries. The commitment to act tough on terror was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. "The leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and violent extremism, and agreed that a strong partnership in security had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries," a press statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. Hasina extended an invitation to Modi to visit Bangladesh, which was accepted by the Prime Minister. "Bangladesh Prime Minister extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Bangladesh and suggested that it could be undertaken also in connection with the birth centenary of Bangabandhu, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The invitation was accepted by Prime Minister Modi," the statement said. Watch: The contrasting tales of two prime ministers × Earlier, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted, "Concluding the #UNGA week by meeting a close neighbour. PM @narendramodi had an excellent meeting with Bangladeshi PM #SheikhHasina. The leaders took stock of the rapidly expanding multifaceted bilateral relationship." Modi has now departed for India, capping off a hectic week-long visit in the US where he held back-to-back meetings with world leaders, including his counterparts from Italy, Greece and Iran to name a few. He also met US President Donald Trump twice during his visit, jointly addressing the mega 'Howdy Modi' event with the former business mogul on Sunday and holding a bilateral meet on Tuesday. The Prime Minister was also honoured with the Global Gatekeeper Award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for his contributions to the cleanliness drive and efforts to improve access to sanitation in India through Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Modi also gave his maiden address at the 74th session of the UNGA on Friday after coming to power for a second five-year term. He also participated in several multilateral meetings and addressed the UN Climate Action Summit on Monday, where he reaffirmed India's support to the fight against climate change. (ANI)

India, Bangladesh reiterate zero-tolerance approach against terrorism

Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-is-the-biggest-global-challenge-for-humanitys-sake-lets-unite-against-terrorism-says-pm-narendra-modi-at-unga-252493">Imran Khan</a> on Friday committed an embarrassing gaffe, as he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'President'&nbsp;during his maiden address to the UN General Assembly in New York.

As Khan continued his anti-India rhetoric in his speech that exceeded beyond the stipulated time-limit of between 15-20 minutes, the cricketer-turned-politician referred to his Indian counterpart as "President Modi".

Watch: Pakistan PM Imran Khan ignores WION's question

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This is not the first time that Khan goofed up.

During his visit to Iran earlier this year, Khan made a faux pas and said that Germany and Japan "shared a border", while speaking on boosting trade ties, when he actually wanted to refer to the "border region" of Germany and France.

The comments drew massive flak from netizens on social media.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday committed an embarrassing gaffe, as he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'President' during his maiden address to the UN General Assembly in New York.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday committed an embarrassing gaffe, as he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as 'President' during his maiden address to the UN General Assembly in New York. As Khan continued his anti-India rhetoric in his speech that exceeded beyond the stipulated time-limit of between 15-20 minutes, the cricketer-turned-politician referred to his Indian counterpart as "President Modi". Watch: Pakistan PM Imran Khan ignores WION's question × This is not the first time that Khan goofed up. During his visit to Iran earlier this year, Khan made a faux pas and said that Germany and Japan "shared a border", while speaking on boosting trade ties, when he actually wanted to refer to the "border region" of Germany and France. The comments drew massive flak from netizens on social media.

Imran Khan goofs up at UNGA; calls PM Modi Indian president

A tale of two speeches: Here's how Modi changed the tone this year at UNGA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his UNGA speech said that the country is committed to eradicating Tuberculosis by 2025 while noting that the dateline is five years ahead of that set by the United Nations under its sustainable development goals.

PM Modi said that his government is running a major campaign to free the country from the single-use plastic.

"While I was coming here, I read on the walls of the United Nations "No more single-use plastic". I am delighted to inform you that we are running a big campaign in India to free the country of single-use plastic," Modi said during his address at the United Nations General Assembly session.

Modi said that it is an honour for him to address the UN General Assembly once again.

"The world's largest democracy voted for my govt &amp; me. We came back to power with a bigger majority and because of this mandate I am here today," Modi said.

This was the Prime Minister's maiden speech at the UN General Assembly after assuming office for the second term. He had last addressed the gathering four years ago, with former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj representing India at the world body during the interim years.

The 69th session of the UNGA had witnessed the Indian Prime Minister calling for the early adaptation of the Comprehensive Convention on Global Terrorism, highlighting that it was a matter that had been pending for long. He had made it clear that India wanted to pursue bilateral talks with Pakistan in an environment of peace, free from the shadow of terror.

Modi's address at the UN comes on the final day of his week-long visit to the US. The leader had a packed agenda of bilaterals amongst other engagements, beginning with the mega "Howdy, Modi!" event in Houston event that witnessed him sharing the stage with US President Donald Trump before a crowd of more than 50,000 Indian-Americans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his UNGA speech said that the country is committed to eradicating Tuberculosis by 2025 while noting that the dateline is five years ahead of that set by the United Nations under its sustainable development goals.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his UNGA speech said that the country is committed to eradicating Tuberculosis by 2025 while noting that the dateline is five years ahead of that set by the United Nations under its sustainable development goals. PM Modi said that his government is running a major campaign to free the country from the single-use plastic. "While I was coming here, I read on the walls of the United Nations "No more single-use plastic". I am delighted to inform you that we are running a big campaign in India to free the country of single-use plastic," Modi said during his address at the United Nations General Assembly session. Modi said that it is an honour for him to address the UN General Assembly once again. "The world's largest democracy voted for my govt & me. We came back to power with a bigger majority and because of this mandate I am here today," Modi said. This was the Prime Minister's maiden speech at the UN General Assembly after assuming office for the second term. He had last addressed the gathering four years ago, with former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj representing India at the world body during the interim years. The 69th session of the UNGA had witnessed the Indian Prime Minister calling for the early adaptation of the Comprehensive Convention on Global Terrorism, highlighting that it was a matter that had been pending for long. He had made it clear that India wanted to pursue bilateral talks with Pakistan in an environment of peace, free from the shadow of terror. Modi's address at the UN comes on the final day of his week-long visit to the US. The leader had a packed agenda of bilaterals amongst other engagements, beginning with the mega "Howdy, Modi!" event in Houston event that witnessed him sharing the stage with US President Donald Trump before a crowd of more than 50,000 Indian-Americans.

Modi at UNGA: PM recounts India's achievements in health sector, says country committed to eradicating Tuberculosis

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-new-york-pm-modi-tells-american-investors-a-golden-opportunity-awaits-in-india-252042">Narendra Modi</a> held separate meetings with CEOs of various companies including Boeing Defence, Shell, Bank of America, CocaCola on Wednesday&nbsp;on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly session in New York.

"Showcasing India as an attractive destination for doing business. PM @narendramodi had separate meetings with President &amp; CEO @Marriott Arne Sorenson, CEO @IBM @GinniRometty, President &amp; CEA @Walmart Douglas McMillon &amp; Chairman &amp; CEO of @CocaCola James Quincey," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar.

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Also met with CEO of <a href="https://twitter.com/Shell?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Shell</a> Ben van Beurden, CEO of <a href="https://twitter.com/BankofAmerica?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BankofAmerica</a> Brian T. Moynihan, <a href="https://twitter.com/BoeingDefense?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BoeingDefense</a> CEO Leanne Caret. <a href="https://t.co/1CIEBncr4V">pic.twitter.com/1CIEBncr4V</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1176933796869861376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Also met with CEO of @Shell Ben van Beurden, CEO of @BankofAmerica Brian T. Moynihan, @BoeingDefense CEO Leanne Caret," he added.

The CEO of Lockheed Martin, Marillyn Hewson, also met the Prime Minister on Wednesday.

"The meeting with PM Modi was excellent. I congratulate India on their pro-growth policies," Hewson said in a video tweeted by the Prime Minister's office.

Modi had a tight schedule packed with back-to-back engagements in New York today.

He started his day with an address at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum in the morning, following which he held a roundtable with 42 CEOs of top global companies.&nbsp;

He also held a bilateral with his Belgian counterpart Charles Michel.

Modi is currently in the United States on a week-long visit, during which he is slated to speak at the UN General Assembly on Friday.&nbsp;

He has already held a string of engagements, including meeting US President Donald Trump twice -- once during their joint address at the mega Howdy Modi! event in Houston on Sunday and during a bilateral on Tuesday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held separate meetings with CEOs of various companies including Boeing Defence, Shell, Bank of America, CocaCola on Wednesday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly session in New York.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held separate meetings with CEOs of various companies including Boeing Defence, Shell, Bank of America, CocaCola on Wednesday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly session in New York. "Showcasing India as an attractive destination for doing business. PM @narendramodi had separate meetings with President & CEO @Marriott Arne Sorenson, CEO @IBM @GinniRometty, President & CEA @Walmart Douglas McMillon & Chairman & CEO of @CocaCola James Quincey," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar. Also met with CEO of @Shell Ben van Beurden, CEO of @BankofAmerica Brian T. Moynihan, @BoeingDefense CEO Leanne Caret. pic.twitter.com/1CIEBncr4V — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) September 25, 2019 × "Also met with CEO of @Shell Ben van Beurden, CEO of @BankofAmerica Brian T. Moynihan, @BoeingDefense CEO Leanne Caret," he added. The CEO of Lockheed Martin, Marillyn Hewson, also met the Prime Minister on Wednesday. "The meeting with PM Modi was excellent. I congratulate India on their pro-growth policies," Hewson said in a video tweeted by the Prime Minister's office. Modi had a tight schedule packed with back-to-back engagements in New York today. He started his day with an address at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum in the morning, following which he held a roundtable with 42 CEOs of top global companies. He also held a bilateral with his Belgian counterpart Charles Michel. Modi is currently in the United States on a week-long visit, during which he is slated to speak at the UN General Assembly on Friday. He has already held a string of engagements, including meeting US President Donald Trump twice -- once during their joint address at the mega Howdy Modi! event in Houston on Sunday and during a bilateral on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Narendra Modi holds meetings with business leaders in New York

India on Wednesday announced $14 million grant for community development projects for Caribbean or CARICOM group of countries.&nbsp;

Along with this, New Delhi also announced a $150 million line of credit for solar, renewable energy and projects related to&nbsp;climate- change.

&nbsp;The announcement came during the first India-CARICOM summit that took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.&nbsp;

CARICOM is a 15-member Caribbean nations grouping.

"Our countries face the challenge of climate change.. our focus is to increase ties with Caricom countries," PM said during the summit.

Leaders of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, vice-president of Suriname, and foreign ministers of Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Haiti and Guyana were present at the meet.&nbsp;

The development comes a day after India announced $12 million grant to Pacific nations towards the implementation of development projects in areas of their choice.

India has been reaching out to the Caribbean lately.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, India announced financial assistance of one million dollars to the Bahamas after it was hit by hurricane Dorian.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister has also invited CARICOM countries to join International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.&nbsp;

New Delhi will also set up a Regional Center for Excellence in Information Technology in Georgetown, Guyana and the Regional Vocational Training Center in Belize by upgrading the existing India-funded centres in these countries. 
&nbsp;

India on Wednesday announced $14 million grant for community development projects for Caribbean or CARICOM group of countries. Along with this, New Delhi also announced a $150 million line of credit for solar, renewable energy and projects related to climate- change.

India on Wednesday announced $14 million grant for community development projects for Caribbean or CARICOM group of countries. Along with this, New Delhi also announced a $150 million line of credit for solar, renewable energy and projects related to climate- change. The announcement came during the first India-CARICOM summit that took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. CARICOM is a 15-member Caribbean nations grouping. "Our countries face the challenge of climate change.. our focus is to increase ties with Caricom countries," PM said during the summit. Leaders of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, vice-president of Suriname, and foreign ministers of Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Haiti and Guyana were present at the meet. The development comes a day after India announced $12 million grant to Pacific nations towards the implementation of development projects in areas of their choice. India has been reaching out to the Caribbean lately. Earlier this month, India announced financial assistance of one million dollars to the Bahamas after it was hit by hurricane Dorian. Indian Prime Minister has also invited CARICOM countries to join International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. New Delhi will also set up a Regional Center for Excellence in Information Technology in Georgetown, Guyana and the Regional Vocational Training Center in Belize by upgrading the existing India-funded centres in these countries.

PM Modi announces $14 million grant for community development projects in CARICOM

The ninth India-China Financial Dialogue held here on Wednesday saw the two countries exchanged views on macroeconomic situation and policy, cooperation in multilateral framework and discussed bilateral investment and financial cooperation.

An official release said the two sides expressed commitment to promote a favorable environment to enable continuous growth of bilateral trade and investment and strengthen their efforts to promote a more balanced and healthier development of trade and economic cooperation.

A high-level Chinese delegation led by Zou Jiayi, Vice Minister, Ministry of Finance, People's Republic of China interacted with the Indian delegation led by Atanu Chakraborty, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs.

The release said that India and China's bilateral relationship has entered into a new era after the historic informal summit between Prime Minister of India and China's President held in Wuhan in April 2018.

The India-China Financial Dialogue is a mechanism between the two countries to promote cooperation in the financial sector.

&nbsp;A joint statement was issued at the conclusion of the dialogue reflecting the mutual understanding and shared vision of both the countries to further strengthen cooperation in the financial sector.

The next round of India-China Financial Dialogue will be held in China.

The ninth India-China Financial Dialogue held here on Wednesday saw the two countries exchanged views on macroeconomic situation and policy, cooperation in multilateral framework and discussed bilateral investment and financial cooperation.

The ninth India-China Financial Dialogue held here on Wednesday saw the two countries exchanged views on macroeconomic situation and policy, cooperation in multilateral framework and discussed bilateral investment and financial cooperation. An official release said the two sides expressed commitment to promote a favorable environment to enable continuous growth of bilateral trade and investment and strengthen their efforts to promote a more balanced and healthier development of trade and economic cooperation. A high-level Chinese delegation led by Zou Jiayi, Vice Minister, Ministry of Finance, People's Republic of China interacted with the Indian delegation led by Atanu Chakraborty, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs. The release said that India and China's bilateral relationship has entered into a new era after the historic informal summit between Prime Minister of India and China's President held in Wuhan in April 2018. The India-China Financial Dialogue is a mechanism between the two countries to promote cooperation in the financial sector. A joint statement was issued at the conclusion of the dialogue reflecting the mutual understanding and shared vision of both the countries to further strengthen cooperation in the financial sector. The next round of India-China Financial Dialogue will be held in China.

India, China discuss bilateral investment at financial dialogue meeting

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to speak at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, the focus has swung back on the BJP’s core philosophy: nationalism. How valid is it today?&nbsp;

Mahatma Gandhi was a nationalist. So were Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Why then has nationalism acquired such odium in recent years? The short answer: the meaning of nationalism has been subverted.

This subversion leads even “public intellectuals” — a term that has fallen into some disrepute — like Pratap Bhanu Mehta and Ramachandra Guha to miss the finer nuances of nationalism.&nbsp;

Why do Indian Opposition leaders, historians and academics misinterpret the true meaning of nationalism? A part of the reason is ideological. They despise Prime Minister Narendra Modi and imbue him with their false interpretation of nationalism. They constantly seek a problem for every solution, not a solution for every problem. Their prognostications for India are invariably grim. The references to Kashmir in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), and the UNGA, is played up by this cabal of India denigrators. The references these international bodies make are merely proforma. They carry no weight. The denigrators know this, but wilfully subvert the narrative.&nbsp;

The government deserves criticism across a host of issues. But such criticism — which should spare nobody, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi — loses credibility if it is built on prejudice. India doesn’t suffer from too much nationalism. It suffers from too little.&nbsp;

At a recent event, sociologist Ashish Nandy told the audience: “I’ve worked on nationalism, so I am telling you with some confidence. You read all the nationalist texts and you tell me if this nationalism is different from our nationalism, or that nationalism is distinct from other kinds of nationalism. You cannot find it, all nationalisms are the same, the texts are the same, only the names, only the minor, trivial details differ. There is no difference between nationalism anywhere. Psychologically speaking they are absolutely the same profile.”&nbsp;

Thus, in Nandy’s view, Mahatma Gandhi’s nationalism in the 1930s was the same as Adolf Hitler’s nationalism in the 1930s. Read the key part of Nandy’s comment again: “All nationalisms are the same. There is no difference between nationalism anywhere.”&nbsp;

But, of course, there is a difference — in both historical and contemporary terms. This is how, as I wrote elsewhere, the finer nuances of nationalism need to be understood: “One reason why the Congress and the Left have a poor understanding of nationalism is that they use European reference points. It is fashionable in the West and among India’s nouveau elite to say that patriots spread ‘love’ and nationalists spread ‘hate’. But that is a Western post-colonial construct based on European nationalism that led to World War II. Indian nationalism is very different.

“German nationalism in the 1930s, for example, sought to invade and conquer. Indian nationalism under Mahatma Gandhi, in sharp contrast, was non-violent and sought to free India from British colonial occupation which, like German ‘nationalism’, was invasive, violent and expansionary. German and British nationalism was not nationalism at all but jingoism. Employing a deliberate sleight of hand, the Left attempts to discredit Indian nationalism today by conflating it with European ‘nationalism’.

“In India, ideologues on the Right, too, make a fatal error: they conflate nationalism with Hindu nationalism. It is not. In its truest form, nationalism is inclusive. To protect national interest means protecting every Indian’s national interest: Hindu, Muslim, Christian or Parsi, rich or poor, Brahmin or Dalit, Sunni or Shia, male, female or transgender. Nationalism seeks national advancement, but not at the cost of other nations, races or creeds. Real nationalism is fair, open and embraces diversity. It seeks to guard India from terror, promote the country’s economic interests by globalising the Indian economy and protect the rights of minorities by empowering them.”

Meanwhile, patriotism, we are told, is the antithesis of nationalism. In short, patriotism is selfless and good. Nationalism is selfish and bad. This is how Nandy frames it: “Old-fashioned patriotism was good enough for even Europe at one time, and in India today, it is by blurring old-style patriotism and love for the country — which is natural and biological — that we have tried to strengthen nationalism. Nationalism by itself does not make that much sense as old-fashioned patriotism. Every Indian, I should say, is patriotic by nature. You don’t have to teach them to be patriotic, but nationalism is an ideology. Nationalism is not only defined by the love of the country territorially where you were born, nationalism is defined by specific enemies and specific allies. Nationalism is built on that; patriotism doesn’t have that kind of responsibility, it doesn’t define your enemies or friends.” &nbsp;

To Nandy, therefore, “nationalism is defined by specific enemies” while “patriotism doesn’t define enemies or friends.”&nbsp;

He makes the same classical mistake others of his ilk do, conflating nationalism with aggressive intent.&nbsp;

Gandhiji, a consummate nationalist throughout his life, used ahimsa, non-violence, as his central credo. The enemy was specific — the British — but he advocated non-violent means to confront and defeat it. He was a patriot and a nationalist and showed how they were two sides of the same coin.&nbsp;

Left-leaning historians and academics strive to drive an artificial wedge between nationalism and patriotism. There isn’t one.&nbsp; 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-subversion-of-nationalism-2792388">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

&nbsp;

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to speak at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, the focus has swung back on the BJP’s core philosophy: nationalism.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to speak at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, the focus has swung back on the BJP’s core philosophy: nationalism. How valid is it today? Mahatma Gandhi was a nationalist. So were Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Why then has nationalism acquired such odium in recent years? The short answer: the meaning of nationalism has been subverted. This subversion leads even “public intellectuals” — a term that has fallen into some disrepute — like Pratap Bhanu Mehta and Ramachandra Guha to miss the finer nuances of nationalism. Why do Indian Opposition leaders, historians and academics misinterpret the true meaning of nationalism? A part of the reason is ideological. They despise Prime Minister Narendra Modi and imbue him with their false interpretation of nationalism. They constantly seek a problem for every solution, not a solution for every problem. Their prognostications for India are invariably grim. The references to Kashmir in the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), and the UNGA, is played up by this cabal of India denigrators. The references these international bodies make are merely proforma. They carry no weight. The denigrators know this, but wilfully subvert the narrative. The government deserves criticism across a host of issues. But such criticism — which should spare nobody, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi — loses credibility if it is built on prejudice. India doesn’t suffer from too much nationalism. It suffers from too little. At a recent event, sociologist Ashish Nandy told the audience: “I’ve worked on nationalism, so I am telling you with some confidence. You read all the nationalist texts and you tell me if this nationalism is different from our nationalism, or that nationalism is distinct from other kinds of nationalism. You cannot find it, all nationalisms are the same, the texts are the same, only the names, only the minor, trivial details differ. There is no difference between nationalism anywhere. Psychologically speaking they are absolutely the same profile.” Thus, in Nandy’s view, Mahatma Gandhi’s nationalism in the 1930s was the same as Adolf Hitler’s nationalism in the 1930s. Read the key part of Nandy’s comment again: “All nationalisms are the same. There is no difference between nationalism anywhere.” But, of course, there is a difference — in both historical and contemporary terms. This is how, as I wrote elsewhere, the finer nuances of nationalism need to be understood: “One reason why the Congress and the Left have a poor understanding of nationalism is that they use European reference points. It is fashionable in the West and among India’s nouveau elite to say that patriots spread ‘love’ and nationalists spread ‘hate’. But that is a Western post-colonial construct based on European nationalism that led to World War II. Indian nationalism is very different. “German nationalism in the 1930s, for example, sought to invade and conquer. Indian nationalism under Mahatma Gandhi, in sharp contrast, was non-violent and sought to free India from British colonial occupation which, like German ‘nationalism’, was invasive, violent and expansionary. German and British nationalism was not nationalism at all but jingoism. Employing a deliberate sleight of hand, the Left attempts to discredit Indian nationalism today by conflating it with European ‘nationalism’. “In India, ideologues on the Right, too, make a fatal error: they conflate nationalism with Hindu nationalism. It is not. In its truest form, nationalism is inclusive. To protect national interest means protecting every Indian’s national interest: Hindu, Muslim, Christian or Parsi, rich or poor, Brahmin or Dalit, Sunni or Shia, male, female or transgender. Nationalism seeks national advancement, but not at the cost of other nations, races or creeds. Real nationalism is fair, open and embraces diversity. It seeks to guard India from terror, promote the country’s economic interests by globalising the Indian economy and protect the rights of minorities by empowering them.” Meanwhile, patriotism, we are told, is the antithesis of nationalism. In short, patriotism is selfless and good. Nationalism is selfish and bad. This is how Nandy frames it: “Old-fashioned patriotism was good enough for even Europe at one time, and in India today, it is by blurring old-style patriotism and love for the country — which is natural and biological — that we have tried to strengthen nationalism. Nationalism by itself does not make that much sense as old-fashioned patriotism. Every Indian, I should say, is patriotic by nature. You don’t have to teach them to be patriotic, but nationalism is an ideology. Nationalism is not only defined by the love of the country territorially where you were born, nationalism is defined by specific enemies and specific allies. Nationalism is built on that; patriotism doesn’t have that kind of responsibility, it doesn’t define your enemies or friends.” To Nandy, therefore, “nationalism is defined by specific enemies” while “patriotism doesn’t define enemies or friends.” He makes the same classical mistake others of his ilk do, conflating nationalism with aggressive intent. Gandhiji, a consummate nationalist throughout his life, used ahimsa, non-violence, as his central credo. The enemy was specific — the British — but he advocated non-violent means to confront and defeat it. He was a patriot and a nationalist and showed how they were two sides of the same coin. Left-leaning historians and academics strive to drive an artificial wedge between nationalism and patriotism. There isn’t one. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The meaning of nationalism has been subverted

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday pitched for India's inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) saying that the country faces a challenge in nuclear energy because it is not a member of the group of nuclear supplier countries and faces issue of supply of fuel.

The Prime Minister made the remarks during an interaction session at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum here.

"We have the challenge of nuclear energy because we are not a member of NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group), so we face the issue of supply of fuel. If we get a solution on that front, then we can come out as a model and work in this sector," he said.

Modi talked of India's speedy movement towards its renewable energy targets including generation of power through the sun and wind.

The Prime Minister said he had set new target due to progress achieved so far.

"India had earlier set a target to achieve 175 Gigawatt of renewable energy. I am happy we are way ahead of the time. We have already achieved the work of 120 Gigawatt. While I was speaking in UN yesterday, I have set a new target of 450 Gigawatt of renewable energy," he said answering a question on renewable energy.

Modi had raised the issue of India's membership of NSG with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit last month.

He had said that India is moving towards clean energy including investment-intensive nuclear power for which NSG membership is crucial to building investor confidence.

China has been blocking India's entry into the NSG which regulates the global nuclear commerce and has been insisting that only countries which have signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty be allowed to become members.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday pitched for India's inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) saying that the country faces a challenge in nuclear energy because it is not a member of the group of nuclear supplier countries and faces issue of supply of fuel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday pitched for India's inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) saying that the country faces a challenge in nuclear energy because it is not a member of the group of nuclear supplier countries and faces issue of supply of fuel. The Prime Minister made the remarks during an interaction session at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum here. "We have the challenge of nuclear energy because we are not a member of NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group), so we face the issue of supply of fuel. If we get a solution on that front, then we can come out as a model and work in this sector," he said. Modi talked of India's speedy movement towards its renewable energy targets including generation of power through the sun and wind. The Prime Minister said he had set new target due to progress achieved so far. "India had earlier set a target to achieve 175 Gigawatt of renewable energy. I am happy we are way ahead of the time. We have already achieved the work of 120 Gigawatt. While I was speaking in UN yesterday, I have set a new target of 450 Gigawatt of renewable energy," he said answering a question on renewable energy. Modi had raised the issue of India's membership of NSG with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit last month. He had said that India is moving towards clean energy including investment-intensive nuclear power for which NSG membership is crucial to building investor confidence. China has been blocking India's entry into the NSG which regulates the global nuclear commerce and has been insisting that only countries which have signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty be allowed to become members.

PM Narendra Modi pitches for India's membership of Nuclear Suppliers Group

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that India is going to spend around 1.3 trillion dollars on modern infrastructure.

"In the coming years, we are going to spend around 1.3 trillion dollars on modern infrastructure in India. Also, lakhs of crores of rupees are being spent on the social infrastructure of the country," the Prime Minister said during his address at the Global Business Forum.

Prime Minister Modi also outlined the government's recent decision of slashing corporate tax rates and reiterated his government's commitment to improving the business environment in the country.

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"Today, there is a government in India that is working towards improving the business environment in the country. India's decision to cut corporate tax has sent a positive message", he said.

He also extended an invitation to the global business community to come and invest in the country and said, "If you want to invest in a market where there is scale, come to India. If you want to invest in one of the largest infrastructure ecosystem and urbanisation, then come to India."

He also met former Mayor of New York City, Michael R Bloomberg ahead of his address at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum. He served as the 108th Mayor of New York City, holding office for three consecutive terms.

After the summit, Prime Minister Modi will take part in an investment round table which will see the participation of more than 40 major US companies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that India is going to spend around 1.3 trillion dollars on modern infrastructure. "In the coming years, we are going to spend around 1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that India is going to spend around 1.3 trillion dollars on modern infrastructure. "In the coming years, we are going to spend around 1.3 trillion dollars on modern infrastructure in India. Also, lakhs of crores of rupees are being spent on the social infrastructure of the country," the Prime Minister said during his address at the Global Business Forum. Prime Minister Modi also outlined the government's recent decision of slashing corporate tax rates and reiterated his government's commitment to improving the business environment in the country. Watch | PM @narendramodi's big #Investment pitch in #NewYork Watch his keynote address at the @business Global Business Forum pic.twitter.com/NlJep9oh7s — WION (@WIONews) September 25, 2019 × "Today, there is a government in India that is working towards improving the business environment in the country. India's decision to cut corporate tax has sent a positive message", he said. He also extended an invitation to the global business community to come and invest in the country and said, "If you want to invest in a market where there is scale, come to India. If you want to invest in one of the largest infrastructure ecosystem and urbanisation, then come to India." He also met former Mayor of New York City, Michael R Bloomberg ahead of his address at the Bloomberg Global Business Forum. He served as the 108th Mayor of New York City, holding office for three consecutive terms. After the summit, Prime Minister Modi will take part in an investment round table which will see the participation of more than 40 major US companies.

India to spend 1.3 trillion dollars on modern infrastructure: PM Narendra Modi

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was disappointed with the International community over the Kashmir issue.

He mentioned India's global prominence and economic stature as one of the reasons behind&nbsp;the global community backing India on the matter. Khan admitted that Pakistan has failed to get support from the world leaders on Islamabad's stand on Kashmir issue.

Khan had raised the issue at several forums following the abrogation of Article 370 seeking the intervention of global leaders, but most leaders supported India calling Kashmir a bilateral issue between the two neighbours.

He, however, accepted that Pakistan could never attack India. Khan will speak on the Kashmir issue on September 27 when he addresses UNGA as he hopes to see world leaders come forward.

Earlier on Monday, Imran Khan, at a meeting at the Center for Foreign Relations in New York, admitted that the Pakistan army and ISI trained the Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups to fight in Afghanistan.

US President has again offered mediation between India and Pakistan on Kashmir. But India has maintained that talks between the two countries can't take place until and unless Pakistan stops aiding and abetting terrorists.

At Howdy Modi event, Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a common vision against terrorism. This endorsement for Modi, coming from the world's strongest leader, is a setback for Pakistan.

Pakistan has been crying foul over India's decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Imran Khan and other ministers of Pakistan had even threatened India with a Nuclear war for weeks.

Although, world leaders respect India's decision on Kashmir and acknowledge the strategic importance of India. And this realisation finally reflected in Imran Khan's 'honest' admissions in New York. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was disappointed with the International community over the Kashmir issue. He mentioned India's global prominence and economic stature as one of the reasons behind the global community backing India on the matter.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was disappointed with the International community over the Kashmir issue. He mentioned India's global prominence and economic stature as one of the reasons behind the global community backing India on the matter. Khan admitted that Pakistan has failed to get support from the world leaders on Islamabad's stand on Kashmir issue. Khan had raised the issue at several forums following the abrogation of Article 370 seeking the intervention of global leaders, but most leaders supported India calling Kashmir a bilateral issue between the two neighbours. He, however, accepted that Pakistan could never attack India. Khan will speak on the Kashmir issue on September 27 when he addresses UNGA as he hopes to see world leaders come forward. Earlier on Monday, Imran Khan, at a meeting at the Center for Foreign Relations in New York, admitted that the Pakistan army and ISI trained the Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups to fight in Afghanistan. US President has again offered mediation between India and Pakistan on Kashmir. But India has maintained that talks between the two countries can't take place until and unless Pakistan stops aiding and abetting terrorists. At Howdy Modi event, Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a common vision against terrorism. This endorsement for Modi, coming from the world's strongest leader, is a setback for Pakistan. Pakistan has been crying foul over India's decision to scrap Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Imran Khan and other ministers of Pakistan had even threatened India with a Nuclear war for weeks. Although, world leaders respect India's decision on Kashmir and acknowledge the strategic importance of India. And this realisation finally reflected in Imran Khan's 'honest' admissions in New York. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Imran Khan's moment of truth

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (local time) said that all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-receives-global-goalkeepers-award-for-swachh-bharat-campaign-251855">Pacific Island member</a> states play an "important" role in each other's development while adding that New Delhi will work to take the strategic partnership between the countries to new heights.

The Prime Minister also underlined that India shares "friendly relations with all" of Pacific Island member states.

Addressing the India-Pacific Islands Leaders'&nbsp;Meeting in New York, the Prime Minister said, "It is a matter of happiness that this meet has been organised. India has friendly relations with all, we are important partners in each others` development. I welcome all the leaders and delegations."

"We`ll take the strategic partnership to new heights and looking forward to strengthening it," he added.

The India-Pacific Islands Leaders'&nbsp;Meeting takes place on the sidelines of the 74th session of the UN General Assembly.

It is first of the two plurilateral meets which are scheduled to take place during Modi`s week-long official visit to the United States.

Modi has participated in a string of events, including addressing the mega Howdy Modi! event in Houston, the UN Climate Action Summit in New York and a high-level meeting on the health sector.

He has also held bilaterals with the USA, Italy, Niger and Qatar and met leaders from Bhutan, Germany and Netherlands -- to name a few -- on the sidelines of his UN engagements.

The Prime Minister also held a series of pull-asides with countries like Jordan, Indonesia and Luxembourg on Monday.

Modi is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly session on Friday.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (local time) said that all Pacific Island member states play an "important" role in each other's development while adding that New Delhi will work to take the strategic partnership between the countries to new heights.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (local time) said that all Pacific Island member states play an "important" role in each other's development while adding that New Delhi will work to take the strategic partnership between the countries to new heights. The Prime Minister also underlined that India shares "friendly relations with all" of Pacific Island member states. Addressing the India-Pacific Islands Leaders' Meeting in New York, the Prime Minister said, "It is a matter of happiness that this meet has been organised. India has friendly relations with all, we are important partners in each others` development. I welcome all the leaders and delegations." "We`ll take the strategic partnership to new heights and looking forward to strengthening it," he added. The India-Pacific Islands Leaders' Meeting takes place on the sidelines of the 74th session of the UN General Assembly. It is first of the two plurilateral meets which are scheduled to take place during Modi`s week-long official visit to the United States. Modi has participated in a string of events, including addressing the mega Howdy Modi! event in Houston, the UN Climate Action Summit in New York and a high-level meeting on the health sector. He has also held bilaterals with the USA, Italy, Niger and Qatar and met leaders from Bhutan, Germany and Netherlands -- to name a few -- on the sidelines of his UN engagements. The Prime Minister also held a series of pull-asides with countries like Jordan, Indonesia and Luxembourg on Monday. Modi is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly session on Friday.

PM Modi vows to take strategic partnership with Pacific Island states to new heights

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday received a 'Global Goalkeeper Award' for the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The award, presented by philanthropist and the founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, was given in honour of PM Modi's contributions to the cleanliness drive and efforts to "improve access to sanitation in India through Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday received a 'Global Goalkeeper Award' for the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan' at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The award, presented by philanthropist and the founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, was given in honour of PM Modi's contributions to the cleanliness drive and efforts to "improve access to sanitation in India through Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan. "This honour is not mine but of the crores of Indians who not only fulfilled the Swachh Bharat dream but also made it a part of their daily lives," PM Modi said after receiving the honour. "In the last five years, a record more than 11 crore toilets were constructed," PM Modi said, adding, "If this mission has benefited someone the most it is the poor of this country and the women. " "I have been told that in a report of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation it was found that in India due to better rural sanitation, heart problems in children have decreased, and there has been an improvement in Body Mass Index of women," PM Modi also said. The Swachh Bharat Mission was launched by the Modi government in 2014 and its components include the construction of household toilets, community and public toilets and solid waste management. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation's 'Global Goalkeeper's Award' is accorded to a world leader every year for their achievement in a specific sustainable development goal. Prior to the Indian Prime Minister, the previous winners have been Prime Minister Erna Solberg of Norway and President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia. The Award ceremony took place on the sidelines of the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly here.

PM Modi receives 'Global Goalkeepers Award' for 'Swachh Bharat' Campaign

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/memories-from-houston-pm-modi-gifts-framed-photograph-from-howdy-modi-to-trump-251835">Narendra Modi</a> inaugurated a 50 kilowatt 'Gandhi Solar Park'&nbsp;at the Headquarters of the United Nations in New York, US on Tuesday.

Among the leaders who were also present at the inauguration includes, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina,&nbsp;President of South Korea Moon-Jae-in and&nbsp;UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

The leaders also launched a United Nations (UN) postage stamp of Mahatma Gandhi, at the programme 'Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World'&nbsp;at the UN headquarters.

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USA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders also launched a United Nations (UN) postage stamp of Mahatma Gandhi, at the programme 'Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World' at the UN headquarters. <a href="https://t.co/uNJaOBT4oo">https://t.co/uNJaOBT4oo</a> <a href="https://t.co/ns8OZEVMBq">pic.twitter.com/ns8OZEVMBq</a>
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The event was organised&nbsp;to celebrate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, which will underline the continuing relevance of Gandhian thoughts and values in today's world.

"I'm extremely grateful to the United Nations (UN) for this programme and&nbsp;issuing a special commemorative stamp to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi," PM Modi said while speaking at the UN program.

"Gandhi ji inspired the lives of those who never ever met him. Martin Luther King Junior and Nelson Mandela's policies and ideologies were based on Mahatma Gandhi's vision," PM Modi also said, adding, "he never tried to create influence through his life but it became a source of inspiration."&nbsp;

"We are living in the era of 'how to impress' but Gandhi ji's vision was 'how to inspire'," PM added.

Bangladesh's&nbsp;PM Sheikh Hasina also spoke about at the UN programme.

"Gandhi ji was a true patriot, statesman and a saint. He dedicated his life for humankind, he was a beacon of hope and light in darkness," she said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to inaugurate a Gandhi Peace Garden at the State University of New York Campus at Old Westbury in Long Island where 150 trees have been planted in honour of Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary.

Previously, PM Modi has held several bilateral and multilateral meetings with leaders from other countries and UN entities on the margins of the UN General Assembly.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi held a bilateral meet with US President Donald Trump during which both leaders discussed issues ranging from terrorism to trade.

Speaking with reporters after the bilateral meet, US President said India and US will have a trade deal ''very soon''.

During the meet, Trump hailed PM Modi as a great leader and described him as&nbsp;''Elvis of India'', referring to famous American singer and actor while PM Modi gave a framed photo&nbsp;from the mega&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-calls-modi-elvis-of-india-says-modi-will-take-care-of-terrorism-from-pakistan-251819">'Howdy, Modi' event&nbsp;</a>to the US president.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a 50 kilowatt 'Gandhi Solar Park' at the Headquarters of the United Nations in New York, US on Tuesday. Among the leaders who were also present at the inauguration includes, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, President of South Korea Moon-Jae-in and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a 50 kilowatt 'Gandhi Solar Park' at the Headquarters of the United Nations in New York, US on Tuesday. Among the leaders who were also present at the inauguration includes, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, President of South Korea Moon-Jae-in and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The leaders also launched a United Nations (UN) postage stamp of Mahatma Gandhi, at the programme 'Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World' at the UN headquarters. USA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders also launched a United Nations (UN) postage stamp of Mahatma Gandhi, at the programme 'Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World' at the UN headquarters. https://t.co/uNJaOBT4oo pic.twitter.com/ns8OZEVMBq — ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2019 × The event was organised to celebrate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, which will underline the continuing relevance of Gandhian thoughts and values in today's world. "I'm extremely grateful to the United Nations (UN) for this programme and issuing a special commemorative stamp to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi," PM Modi said while speaking at the UN program. "Gandhi ji inspired the lives of those who never ever met him. Martin Luther King Junior and Nelson Mandela's policies and ideologies were based on Mahatma Gandhi's vision," PM Modi also said, adding, "he never tried to create influence through his life but it became a source of inspiration." "We are living in the era of 'how to impress' but Gandhi ji's vision was 'how to inspire'," PM added. Bangladesh's PM Sheikh Hasina also spoke about at the UN programme. "Gandhi ji was a true patriot, statesman and a saint. He dedicated his life for humankind, he was a beacon of hope and light in darkness," she said. Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to inaugurate a Gandhi Peace Garden at the State University of New York Campus at Old Westbury in Long Island where 150 trees have been planted in honour of Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. Previously, PM Modi has held several bilateral and multilateral meetings with leaders from other countries and UN entities on the margins of the UN General Assembly. Earlier in the day, PM Modi held a bilateral meet with US President Donald Trump during which both leaders discussed issues ranging from terrorism to trade. Speaking with reporters after the bilateral meet, US President said India and US will have a trade deal ''very soon''. During the meet, Trump hailed PM Modi as a great leader and described him as ''Elvis of India'', referring to famous American singer and actor while PM Modi gave a framed photo from the mega 'Howdy, Modi' event to the US president.

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Gandhi Solar Park at UN Headquarters; launches commemorative postage stamp

Reaching out to the Pacific nation, India has announced $12 million grant towards the implementation of development projects in areas of their choice. This stands at $1 million for each of the 12 nations of the pacific ocean.

Reaching out to the Pacific nation, India has announced $12 million grant towards the implementation of development projects in areas of their choice. This stands at $1 million for each of the 12 nations of the pacific ocean. This was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with leaders of 12 Pacific Island countries -- Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Independent State of Papua New Guinea, The Independent State of Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu as part India-Pacific Islands Developing States (PSIDS) Leaders’ Meeting on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). "I am happy to meet pacific small island countries. We are partners in developments. Through this meeting we will focus on increasing cooperation" PM Modi said. As part of India's global climate action programmes, concessional Line of Credit of US$150 Million can now be availed by the Pacific Island countries for undertaking solar, renewable energy and climate-related projects. Many of the Pacific Island countries have joined New Delhi lead International Solar Alliance. New Delhi has also offered to organise a Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp in a Pacific regional hub under ‘India for Humanity’ programme. India's outreach to pacific island countries come as part of its act east and Indopacific outreach polices. This led to the establishment of India–Pacific Island Cooperation (FIPIC) forum. The first and second editions of FIPIC took place in Fiji (2015) and Jaipur (2016) and 3rd will take place in Port Moresby in the first half of 2020.

Indian government announces $12 million for 12 Pacific Island small states 

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-not-shying-away-from-talks-with-pakistan-pm-modi-tells-donald-trump-in-new-york-251839">Narendra Modi</a> will take care of it, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, on Pakistan PM Imran Khan's admission that his country's ISI is training Al Qaeda.&nbsp;

"...I know that your Prime Minister (PM Modi) will take care of it" Trump said when asked 'how do you see the statement coming from Pakistani PM admitting that the Pakistani ISI trained Al Qaeda?'.

Trump made the remarks during the press meet after holding bilateral meet with PM Modi on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Speaking at an event at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) think tank in New York on Monday, Imran Khan had acknowledged that his country's army and spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) trained Al Qaeda and other militant groups.

Watch: Indian PM Modi &amp; US President Trump's meet at UN for bilateral talks

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&nbsp;"The Pakistani army ISI trained Al Qaeda and all these groups to fight in Afghanistan, there were always links, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-has-changed-says-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-in-us-251614">there had to be linked because they trained them</a>," Khan had said.

Imran Khan had also said that Pakistan committed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/joining-us-after-911-was-big-blunder-pakistani-pm-imran-khan-in-us-251574">one of the biggest blunders</a> by joining the United States in its war on terrorism in the aftermath of 9/11 terror attack.&nbsp;

PM Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-imran-likely-to-cross-paths-at-united-nations-headquarters-today-251795">expected to cross paths with each other</a> at the United Nations headquarters in New York today.

Both Indian prime minister and his Pakistan counterpart would address the UN general assembly on September 27.

PM Modi and US President sat together in New York on Tuesday for the third time in the last few months and while endorsing each other also announced both working on a trade deal.

The meeting lasted between 30 to 45 minutes, Gokhale said, adding, "India was quite satisfied with the meeting". 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take care of it, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, on Pakistan PM Imran Khan's admission that his country's ISI is training Al Qaeda.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take care of it, US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, on Pakistan PM Imran Khan's admission that his country's ISI is training Al Qaeda. "...I know that your Prime Minister (PM Modi) will take care of it" Trump said when asked 'how do you see the statement coming from Pakistani PM admitting that the Pakistani ISI trained Al Qaeda?'. Trump made the remarks during the press meet after holding bilateral meet with PM Modi on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. Speaking at an event at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) think tank in New York on Monday, Imran Khan had acknowledged that his country's army and spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) trained Al Qaeda and other militant groups. Watch: Indian PM Modi & US President Trump's meet at UN for bilateral talks × "The Pakistani army ISI trained Al Qaeda and all these groups to fight in Afghanistan, there were always links, there had to be linked because they trained them," Khan had said. Imran Khan had also said that Pakistan committed one of the biggest blunders by joining the United States in its war on terrorism in the aftermath of 9/11 terror attack. PM Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan are expected to cross paths with each other at the United Nations headquarters in New York today. Both Indian prime minister and his Pakistan counterpart would address the UN general assembly on September 27. PM Modi and US President sat together in New York on Tuesday for the third time in the last few months and while endorsing each other also announced both working on a trade deal. The meeting lasted between 30 to 45 minutes, Gokhale said, adding, "India was quite satisfied with the meeting".

PM Modi will take care of it: Trump on Imran Khan admitting ISI's role in training Al Qaeda

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