Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to unveil measures to boost economic growth, which slipped to a six-year low of 5% in the April-June quarter, two government sources said on Thursday.

The measures include a review of import tariffs on certain items ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the United States, the sources said.

"We are waiting for the approval from the prime minister's office, and the measures could be announced on Friday," one of the government sources told Reuters.

The sources declined to be named as they were not authorized to speak to the media.

Any relaxation of tariffs on US&nbsp;imports would be seen as a step in easing a trade row between the two countries that has accelerated in Modi's second term.

The trade row has prompted both countries to raise tariffs and created unease over the depth of their security alliance.

The federal government is also urging the Goods and Services Tax (GST) council to cut tax rates on items including auto sector products and tourism, said one of the sources, who attended a meeting of state and federal officials in Panaji on Thursday to discuss the impact of the economic slowdown and implications of possible tax cuts.

Some states oppose tax cuts as they fear it would impact their revenue collections, and may not boost sales, he said.

Finance ministry officials have warned that the economic slowdown has led to lower tax collections, and they may have to utilize an extra dividend of nearly 580 billion rupees&nbsp;this year from the central bank to fund budgeted spending.

"We were planning to spend RBI money (the extra dividend) for new investments. It does not seem possible now," said one of the sources.

The government would have to resort to spending cuts in the January-March quarter because of a fall in tax collections and stiff fiscal deficit target for this year, the sources said.

As the government seeks to keep liquidity flowing, Sitharaman urged banks on Thursday to increase lending to small businesses and retail borrowers to spur spending ahead of the final quarter festive season.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to unveil measures to boost economic growth, which slipped to a six-year low of 5% in the April-June quarter, two government sources said on Thursday.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is likely to unveil measures to boost economic growth, which slipped to a six-year low of 5% in the April-June quarter, two government sources said on Thursday. The measures include a review of import tariffs on certain items ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the United States, the sources said. "We are waiting for the approval from the prime minister's office, and the measures could be announced on Friday," one of the government sources told Reuters. The sources declined to be named as they were not authorized to speak to the media. Any relaxation of tariffs on US imports would be seen as a step in easing a trade row between the two countries that has accelerated in Modi's second term. The trade row has prompted both countries to raise tariffs and created unease over the depth of their security alliance. The federal government is also urging the Goods and Services Tax (GST) council to cut tax rates on items including auto sector products and tourism, said one of the sources, who attended a meeting of state and federal officials in Panaji on Thursday to discuss the impact of the economic slowdown and implications of possible tax cuts. Some states oppose tax cuts as they fear it would impact their revenue collections, and may not boost sales, he said. Finance ministry officials have warned that the economic slowdown has led to lower tax collections, and they may have to utilize an extra dividend of nearly 580 billion rupees this year from the central bank to fund budgeted spending. "We were planning to spend RBI money (the extra dividend) for new investments. It does not seem possible now," said one of the sources. The government would have to resort to spending cuts in the January-March quarter because of a fall in tax collections and stiff fiscal deficit target for this year, the sources said. As the government seeks to keep liquidity flowing, Sitharaman urged banks on Thursday to increase lending to small businesses and retail borrowers to spur spending ahead of the final quarter festive season.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman likely to unveil measures to boost economic growth: Sources

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced big-ticket reforms in the economy by slashing corporate tax.

"Rationalisation of corporate tax had been a long-pending demand, which is now a reality. This move will make our corporates globally competitive and our markets much more exciting for potential investors," tweeted Shah.

"Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub and this decision along with previous announcements on relaxing FDI will go a long way in realising this objective. I congratulate PM @narendramodi and FM @nsitharaman for announcing these bold measures," he tweeted.

Bringing in tax cuts and fiscal reliefs through an Ordinance, the government on Friday slashed domestic corporate tax to an effective 25.17 per cent, inclusive of all surcharges and cess, in a bid to promote growth and investments amid an economic slowdown that would cost the exchequer Rs 1.45 lakh crore.

"A new provision has been inserted in the Income Tax Act from financial year 2019-20 (beginning April 1) which allows any domestic company an option to pay income tax at the rate of 22 per cent subject to the condition that they will not avail any exemption or incentive," Sitharaman told the media ahead of a GST Council meeting.

Today's announcements top a series of measures the finance minister has announced in the last one month to perk up the economy.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced big-ticket reforms in the economy by slashing corporate tax.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced big-ticket reforms in the economy by slashing corporate tax. "Rationalisation of corporate tax had been a long-pending demand, which is now a reality. This move will make our corporates globally competitive and our markets much more exciting for potential investors," tweeted Shah. "Modi government is committed to making India a big manufacturing hub and this decision along with previous announcements on relaxing FDI will go a long way in realising this objective. I congratulate PM @narendramodi and FM @nsitharaman for announcing these bold measures," he tweeted. Bringing in tax cuts and fiscal reliefs through an Ordinance, the government on Friday slashed domestic corporate tax to an effective 25.17 per cent, inclusive of all surcharges and cess, in a bid to promote growth and investments amid an economic slowdown that would cost the exchequer Rs 1.45 lakh crore. "A new provision has been inserted in the Income Tax Act from financial year 2019-20 (beginning April 1) which allows any domestic company an option to pay income tax at the rate of 22 per cent subject to the condition that they will not avail any exemption or incentive," Sitharaman told the media ahead of a GST Council meeting. Today's announcements top a series of measures the finance minister has announced in the last one month to perk up the economy.

Modi government committed to making India a big manufacturing hub: Amit Shah

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-surges-over-2000-points-after-finance-ministers-corporate-tax-cut-announcement-250789">announcement to slash corporate tax rates</a> and called it "historic".&nbsp;

The prime minister said that the move will attract private investment from all across the world.&nbsp;

"It will give a great stimulus to #MakeInIndia, attract private investment from across the globe, improve the competitiveness of our private sector, create more jobs and result in a win-win for 130 crore Indians," the prime minister tweeted out.&nbsp;

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The announcements in the last few weeks clearly demonstrate that our government is leaving no stone unturned to make India a better place to do business, improve opportunities for all sections of society and increase prosperity to make India a $5 Trillion economy.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1174963369234747392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi added that the decisions taken in the last few weeks exhibit that the "government is leaving no stone unturned to make India a better place to do business, improve opportunities for all sections of society and increase prosperity to make India a $5 trillion economy".

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The step to cut corporate tax is historic. It will give a great stimulus to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MakeInIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MakeInIndia</a>, attract private investment from across the globe, improve competitiveness of our private sector, create more jobs and result in a win-win for 130 crore Indians. <a href="https://t.co/4yNwqyzImE">https://t.co/4yNwqyzImE</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1174963190091771904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The domestic stock markets indices Sensex and Nifty registered their biggest single-day gain in more than a decade after the government announced deep cuts in corporate taxes to revive flagging growth in Asia's third-largest economy.

At 2:00 pm, the Sensex was at 38,313.65, higher by 2,220.18 points from the previous close of 36,093.47 points.

The NSE Nifty50 was trading at 11,379.60, higher by 674.80 points from the previous close.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the effective corporate tax rate would be lowered to 25.17 per cent from 30 per cent and scrapped the minimum alternative tax for domestic companies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's announcement to slash corporate tax rates and called it "historic". The prime minister said that the move will attract private investment from all across the world.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's announcement to slash corporate tax rates and called it "historic". The prime minister said that the move will attract private investment from all across the world. "It will give a great stimulus to #MakeInIndia, attract private investment from across the globe, improve the competitiveness of our private sector, create more jobs and result in a win-win for 130 crore Indians," the prime minister tweeted out. The announcements in the last few weeks clearly demonstrate that our government is leaving no stone unturned to make India a better place to do business, improve opportunities for all sections of society and increase prosperity to make India a $5 Trillion economy. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 20, 2019 × PM Modi added that the decisions taken in the last few weeks exhibit that the "government is leaving no stone unturned to make India a better place to do business, improve opportunities for all sections of society and increase prosperity to make India a $5 trillion economy". The step to cut corporate tax is historic. It will give a great stimulus to #MakeInIndia, attract private investment from across the globe, improve competitiveness of our private sector, create more jobs and result in a win-win for 130 crore Indians. https://t.co/4yNwqyzImE — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 20, 2019 × The domestic stock markets indices Sensex and Nifty registered their biggest single-day gain in more than a decade after the government announced deep cuts in corporate taxes to revive flagging growth in Asia's third-largest economy. At 2:00 pm, the Sensex was at 38,313.65, higher by 2,220.18 points from the previous close of 36,093.47 points. The NSE Nifty50 was trading at 11,379.60, higher by 674.80 points from the previous close. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the effective corporate tax rate would be lowered to 25.17 per cent from 30 per cent and scrapped the minimum alternative tax for domestic companies.

It's a win-win for 130 crore Indians: PM Modi on corporate tax rate cut

India has expressed confidence that United States authorities will make sure Pakistan backed protestors create no disruption to any scheduled event or there is no threat to Prime Minister's security.

The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "We have seen such reports in Media. I have no doubt, those who handle the matter have discussed the matter with US Side. I am confident the US, within the laws that prevail in the country, will take care to see there is no disruption of the event or threat to the security of prime minister."

Pakistan is planning large scale protest in New York during PM Narendra Modi's US visit next week.&nbsp;

Two major protests are expected to happen next week which are reportedly sponsored by Pakistan.&nbsp;

Advisor to Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Zulfi Bukhari has held several meetings with the leaders of Pakistani diaspora foundation.&nbsp;

Since August 5, New Delhi's decision to remove a special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan has been organising violent protest globally especially in front of Indian missions.

Earlier this month violent protestors from the Pakistan community in the UK vandalised the property of the Indian mission.&nbsp;

India had strongly raised the matter with London back then.&nbsp;

India has expressed confidence that United States authorities will make sure Pakistan backed protestors create no disruption to any scheduled event or there is no threat to Prime Minister's security.

India has expressed confidence that United States authorities will make sure Pakistan backed protestors create no disruption to any scheduled event or there is no threat to Prime Minister's security. The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "We have seen such reports in Media. I have no doubt, those who handle the matter have discussed the matter with US Side. I am confident the US, within the laws that prevail in the country, will take care to see there is no disruption of the event or threat to the security of prime minister." Pakistan is planning large scale protest in New York during PM Narendra Modi's US visit next week. Two major protests are expected to happen next week which are reportedly sponsored by Pakistan. Advisor to Pakistani PM Imran Khan, Zulfi Bukhari has held several meetings with the leaders of Pakistani diaspora foundation. Since August 5, New Delhi's decision to remove a special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan has been organising violent protest globally especially in front of Indian missions. Earlier this month violent protestors from the Pakistan community in the UK vandalised the property of the Indian mission. India had strongly raised the matter with London back then.

India expresses confidence in US authorities as Pakistan plans major protests

Populism of&nbsp;late has acquired a bad meaning globally. Populism is being associated with majoritarian politics which does not respect the minority and treats smaller communities with disrespect.

It has also come to represent unitary, uniform and homogenous idea of a nation which does not accommodate ethnicities, regional languages and ideological aspirations of small communities.&nbsp;

Populism instead of being understood as a critique of the previous arrangement of power internationally is being demonised as a religion of illiterate people who believe in half-baked truths.

The attitude is self-defeating. It only creates a sense of disdain without any concerted effort to understand what propels communities merge small differences of culture, community, and language to achieve big goals.&nbsp;

The first thing which populism does is to break the politics of political correctness. The sham of what can and what cannot be addressed in public is broken in the public domain. In India, it related to matter of faith, worship, civil code, Article 370 and anxiety of being overrun by immigrants.

Populism in politics also reflects social disconnect with the system of power and not with individuals. A populist government coming to power does not reflect a mere change of power. It leads to change in the way people are governed and policies are made and implemented. It is for this reason Narendra Modi’s government is populist in nature and Vajpayee despite being a popular politician, did not lead a populist government. His government did not change the intellectual consensus on national issues. A populist government comes to power when people at large want change to be reflected not only through decisions but also through the process of decision-making.

It is for this reason, what is construed by many as singular, authoritarian or undemocratic is seen by people as decisive, strong and path-breaking. And thus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received unending support from people across India on the abrogation of Article 370. It has not just created a new normal in the Valley but also changed the way Indians approach the Kashmir issue permanently.

Populist governments can become reactionary but in a democratic system, they help channel deep anxieties and frustration felt by common men and women in the context of decision making. It is for this reason, populism has seeped into many countries in Europe. Populist politics is challenging limits of European integration which has been born as a consequence of the disastrous World War II. Indian populism is also challenging the political consensus born immediately after the partition.&nbsp;

The old power order is only trying it grasp fundamental shift in Indian political order through the prism of constitutional morality. Constitutions are a reflection of social morality. Laws are supposed to meet the requirements of the social order. The only thing permanent in the Constitution are human values. The values like liberty, fraternity and equality are eternal in nature. To see populism as a counterpoint to fundamental values is&nbsp;wrong. Populist politics, populist movements or popular participation have always changed the course of history or impacted the future of the existing power relations in a country. India is also undergoing similar changes. Indian populism is not anti-minority. It represents deep anxiety within the majority community which wants to express its cultural and religious history of the land in an unapologetic way.&nbsp;

Patriotism or nationalism is an important input in modern nation-state but nowhere it can exist in a vacuum. It is for this reason, the constitution begins with the word, India i.e.- Bharat. European and American populism may rest on anti-immigrant feeling but Indian populism rests on new political consensus emerging from a new middle class.

It is also a result of decades of social reformation within Hinduism which has worked to bridge caste cleavage for a desire to have a new pan-Indian Hindu identity. The old liberal politics was&nbsp;based on the division of Hindu society in different communities. It also conceived tribal and Dalit communities as different from caste Hindu communities. This imagination of Hindus as different communities is losing ground to reform movements that wanted a pan- Indian Hindu identity. To understand it as majoritarianism is an intellectual folly. Hinduism does not have a text and it has the ability to redefine itself. It has done so many times in the past. The changes today represent a fundamental shift in&nbsp;Indian society and reflect&nbsp;the consolidation of pan-Hindu opinion on NRC and Article 370.

It is not communal in nature. It is the acknowledgment of the fact that a pan-Hindu opinion can exist, which can be independent of caste and community values.&nbsp;

It is this shift that has provided major thrust for Indian populism which is also a result of many other factors like the desire for strong leadership and settling certain issues that have plagued India since independence.&nbsp;

This assertion should not be mistaken for aggression. Lawlessness should be mistaken for concerted effort. It is a reflection&nbsp;of a new consensus. The Opposition feels that economic woes may help to reverse the tide. This may not be enough as Congress too came back to power a number of times despite slow growth rates in the 50s and 60s.&nbsp;

Populist politics rest on hope and the desired future. It can also become impatient and sometimes violent to achieve the desired end.&nbsp;

To understand populism as an aberration is an intellectual disservice. Modi is a popular leader and his government is populist in nature. The Opposition can only counter it&nbsp;by creating an ideological narrative that is not divisive&nbsp;in nature or based on decisions that emanate from the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

The answer to populism cannot be restricted to arguments in the halls of universities. The answer to populism will need to come after understanding what made the people react the way they did and why.&nbsp;

It will require intense engagement with people on the ground which also includes faith, religion and culture in the discussion. In its absence,&nbsp;the current wave of populism will reign supreme, unless and until disturbed by grave external (war) or internal (economy) issues.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Populism of late has acquired a bad meaning globally. Populism is being associated with majoritarian politics which does not respect the minority and treats smaller communities with disrespect.

Populism of late has acquired a bad meaning globally. Populism is being associated with majoritarian politics which does not respect the minority and treats smaller communities with disrespect. It has also come to represent unitary, uniform and homogenous idea of a nation which does not accommodate ethnicities, regional languages and ideological aspirations of small communities. Populism instead of being understood as a critique of the previous arrangement of power internationally is being demonised as a religion of illiterate people who believe in half-baked truths. The attitude is self-defeating. It only creates a sense of disdain without any concerted effort to understand what propels communities merge small differences of culture, community, and language to achieve big goals. The first thing which populism does is to break the politics of political correctness. The sham of what can and what cannot be addressed in public is broken in the public domain. In India, it related to matter of faith, worship, civil code, Article 370 and anxiety of being overrun by immigrants. Populism in politics also reflects social disconnect with the system of power and not with individuals. A populist government coming to power does not reflect a mere change of power. It leads to change in the way people are governed and policies are made and implemented. It is for this reason Narendra Modi’s government is populist in nature and Vajpayee despite being a popular politician, did not lead a populist government. His government did not change the intellectual consensus on national issues. A populist government comes to power when people at large want change to be reflected not only through decisions but also through the process of decision-making. It is for this reason, what is construed by many as singular, authoritarian or undemocratic is seen by people as decisive, strong and path-breaking. And thus, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received unending support from people across India on the abrogation of Article 370. It has not just created a new normal in the Valley but also changed the way Indians approach the Kashmir issue permanently. Populist governments can become reactionary but in a democratic system, they help channel deep anxieties and frustration felt by common men and women in the context of decision making. It is for this reason, populism has seeped into many countries in Europe. Populist politics is challenging limits of European integration which has been born as a consequence of the disastrous World War II. Indian populism is also challenging the political consensus born immediately after the partition. The old power order is only trying it grasp fundamental shift in Indian political order through the prism of constitutional morality. Constitutions are a reflection of social morality. Laws are supposed to meet the requirements of the social order. The only thing permanent in the Constitution are human values. The values like liberty, fraternity and equality are eternal in nature. To see populism as a counterpoint to fundamental values is wrong. Populist politics, populist movements or popular participation have always changed the course of history or impacted the future of the existing power relations in a country. India is also undergoing similar changes. Indian populism is not anti-minority. It represents deep anxiety within the majority community which wants to express its cultural and religious history of the land in an unapologetic way. Patriotism or nationalism is an important input in modern nation-state but nowhere it can exist in a vacuum. It is for this reason, the constitution begins with the word, India i.e.- Bharat. European and American populism may rest on anti-immigrant feeling but Indian populism rests on new political consensus emerging from a new middle class. It is also a result of decades of social reformation within Hinduism which has worked to bridge caste cleavage for a desire to have a new pan-Indian Hindu identity. The old liberal politics was based on the division of Hindu society in different communities. It also conceived tribal and Dalit communities as different from caste Hindu communities. This imagination of Hindus as different communities is losing ground to reform movements that wanted a pan- Indian Hindu identity. To understand it as majoritarianism is an intellectual folly. Hinduism does not have a text and it has the ability to redefine itself. It has done so many times in the past. The changes today represent a fundamental shift in Indian society and reflect the consolidation of pan-Hindu opinion on NRC and Article 370. It is not communal in nature. It is the acknowledgment of the fact that a pan-Hindu opinion can exist, which can be independent of caste and community values. It is this shift that has provided major thrust for Indian populism which is also a result of many other factors like the desire for strong leadership and settling certain issues that have plagued India since independence. This assertion should not be mistaken for aggression. Lawlessness should be mistaken for concerted effort. It is a reflection of a new consensus. The Opposition feels that economic woes may help to reverse the tide. This may not be enough as Congress too came back to power a number of times despite slow growth rates in the 50s and 60s. Populist politics rest on hope and the desired future. It can also become impatient and sometimes violent to achieve the desired end. To understand populism as an aberration is an intellectual disservice. Modi is a popular leader and his government is populist in nature. The Opposition can only counter it by creating an ideological narrative that is not divisive in nature or based on decisions that emanate from the Supreme Court. The answer to populism cannot be restricted to arguments in the halls of universities. The answer to populism will need to come after understanding what made the people react the way they did and why. It will require intense engagement with people on the ground which also includes faith, religion and culture in the discussion. In its absence, the current wave of populism will reign supreme, unless and until disturbed by grave external (war) or internal (economy) issues. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Understanding populism and Narendra Modi's 2019 mandate

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday outlined <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-didnt-act-alone-on-article-370-it-was-the-disclosure-of-sentiments-of-130-crore-indians-pm-modi-in-nashik-250596">PM Modi</a>'s schedule during his trip to the United States this week.&nbsp;

Gokhale said that on September 22, the prime minister will hold his biggest address ever in the United States. PM Modi will be addressing the Indian diaspora at the 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston, Texas which will see the attendance of over 50,000 people.&nbsp;

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: On the 22nd of September, the highlight would be the Prime Minister's address to the Indian community. We are delighted that President Trump will also be there. <a href="https://t.co/o0VB84kcqL">https://t.co/o0VB84kcqL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1174634710028308481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister's previous addresses in the US were at the Madison Square Garden in 2014 and California in the year 2015.

The prime minister will hold a business event which will be a roundtable of CEOs of the energy sector.

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: On 24th September, in the late afternoon we organise our event to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, in the UN. This event is titled 'Leadership matters: Relevance of Gandhi in contemporary times'. <a href="https://t.co/mcfZ4p4Ow9">pic.twitter.com/mcfZ4p4Ow9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1174635624315285504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"PM Modi will also interact with members of US Congress during his visit," Gokhale added.&nbsp;

"On the 23rd, PM Modi will head to New York wherein he will take part in multilateral events". He will meet with the US president Donald Trump on September 24 in New York.&nbsp;

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: We are delighted that the Prime Minister will be joined by some heads of govt, these include President of the Republic of Korea, PM of Singapore, PM of New Zealand, PM of Bangladesh, PM of Jamaica as well as the UN Secretary General. <a href="https://t.co/AIWPGOcecR">https://t.co/AIWPGOcecR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1174635779378647041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi will take part in an event on climate change wherein he will talk about the efforts taken to combat climate change. "Terrorism is not the focus this time and will only be part of the discussion," Gokhale said adding that India will not raise the matter of Article 370 at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).&nbsp;

The prime minister will hold as many as 20 bilaterals in the United States.

PM Modi visit will also see three launches taking place. One such lauch will be that of Gandhi solar park - installation of solar panels on the rooftop of the UN headquarters in New York - from a grant of $US 1 million that India has given to promote renewable energy and showcase India's commitment to using of solar energy

This year Bill &amp; Melinda Gates Foundation's 'Global Goalkeeper's Award' will be given to PM Modi for his leadership in the field of sanitation through 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan'. Every year, the award is given to a world leader for achievements in a specific sustainable development goal.&nbsp;

India will also be commemorating Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary at the UN.&nbsp;

PM Modi will reach United States on September 21.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday outlined PM Modi's schedule during his trip to the United States this week. Gokhale said that on September 22, the prime minister will hold his biggest address ever in the United States.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Thursday outlined PM Modi's schedule during his trip to the United States this week. Gokhale said that on September 22, the prime minister will hold his biggest address ever in the United States. PM Modi will be addressing the Indian diaspora at the 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston, Texas which will see the attendance of over 50,000 people. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: On the 22nd of September, the highlight would be the Prime Minister's address to the Indian community. We are delighted that President Trump will also be there. https://t.co/o0VB84kcqL — ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2019 × The prime minister's previous addresses in the US were at the Madison Square Garden in 2014 and California in the year 2015. The prime minister will hold a business event which will be a roundtable of CEOs of the energy sector. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: On 24th September, in the late afternoon we organise our event to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, in the UN. This event is titled 'Leadership matters: Relevance of Gandhi in contemporary times'. pic.twitter.com/mcfZ4p4Ow9 — ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2019 × "PM Modi will also interact with members of US Congress during his visit," Gokhale added. "On the 23rd, PM Modi will head to New York wherein he will take part in multilateral events". He will meet with the US president Donald Trump on September 24 in New York. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale: We are delighted that the Prime Minister will be joined by some heads of govt, these include President of the Republic of Korea, PM of Singapore, PM of New Zealand, PM of Bangladesh, PM of Jamaica as well as the UN Secretary General. https://t.co/AIWPGOcecR — ANI (@ANI) September 19, 2019 × PM Modi will take part in an event on climate change wherein he will talk about the efforts taken to combat climate change. "Terrorism is not the focus this time and will only be part of the discussion," Gokhale said adding that India will not raise the matter of Article 370 at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The prime minister will hold as many as 20 bilaterals in the United States. PM Modi visit will also see three launches taking place. One such lauch will be that of Gandhi solar park - installation of solar panels on the rooftop of the UN headquarters in New York - from a grant of $US 1 million that India has given to promote renewable energy and showcase India's commitment to using of solar energy This year Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation's 'Global Goalkeeper's Award' will be given to PM Modi for his leadership in the field of sanitation through 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan'. Every year, the award is given to a world leader for achievements in a specific sustainable development goal. India will also be commemorating Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary at the UN. PM Modi will reach United States on September 21. (With inputs from ANI)

Biggest address, 20 bilaterals and meeting with Trump: PM Modi's jam-packed US schedule 

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah will address his party's MPs on September 21, during which he is likely to announce programs to be taken up to spread the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of the Father of the Nation.

Sources in the party said that Shah will address the MPs, who have been asked to be present at state party headquarters on September 21, through video conferencing. Shah will be present at the BJP headquarters in Delhi.

The party has already asked its MPs to take out 'padyatras' across the country to spread the teachings of the Father of the Nation.

Shah, also the Union Home Minister, is likely to officially announce the initiatives and activities to be taken up by the MPs in their respective constituencies as part of celebrations.

During the course of the yatra, Shah is likely to ask leaders to make cleanliness drive, tree plantation, eliminate single-use plastic and other social initiatives of the Modi government a mass movement.

The government has decided to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at the national and international level to propagate his message. A committee has also been constituted for this purpose.

In his last address on his monthly radio program 'Mann ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that mega preparations are underway to mark the birth anniversary.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah will address his party's MPs on September 21, during which he is likely to announce programs to be taken up to spread the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of the Father of the Nation.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah will address his party's MPs on September 21, during which he is likely to announce programs to be taken up to spread the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi as part of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of the Father of the Nation. Sources in the party said that Shah will address the MPs, who have been asked to be present at state party headquarters on September 21, through video conferencing. Shah will be present at the BJP headquarters in Delhi. The party has already asked its MPs to take out 'padyatras' across the country to spread the teachings of the Father of the Nation. Shah, also the Union Home Minister, is likely to officially announce the initiatives and activities to be taken up by the MPs in their respective constituencies as part of celebrations. During the course of the yatra, Shah is likely to ask leaders to make cleanliness drive, tree plantation, eliminate single-use plastic and other social initiatives of the Modi government a mass movement. The government has decided to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi at the national and international level to propagate his message. A committee has also been constituted for this purpose. In his last address on his monthly radio program 'Mann ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that mega preparations are underway to mark the birth anniversary.

Home Minister Amit Shah to addres BJP MPs on September 21

In her first meeting after the general elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here and termed it as "good".

This is also Banerjee's first meeting with the Prime Minister after two years and the first after he was elected to power for the second time in bitterly-fought elections including in West Bengal where the BJP has made spectacular gains.

"We had a good meeting. I had plans to meet the Prime Minister but due to some unwanted incidents the plan could not take shape," she said.

During the meeting, the issue of West Bengal's name change to Bangla was discussed. The Chief Minister made it clear that any suggestion from the Centre will be accepted.

"Bengal is open to any 'addition or alternation'&nbsp;on the name change," Banerjee said.

The Chief Minister specifically mentioned that the meeting was "government to government sans political interferences".

"We need to keep faith in the Constitution and democracy.

Both state government and central government are elected and need to work towards development," Banerjee remarked.

Other issues discussed in the meeting were the merger of public sector banks. Moreover, Banerjee handed over a prepared plan to the Prime Minister on how West Bengal performed in the last eight years.

The TMC supremo arrived in the national capital on Tuesday to pay a courtesy call with the Prime Minister.

Banerjee said she will seek an appointment with Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday.

At present, BJP is the key opponent of TMC after the former performed exceptionally well in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections, where the party won 18 seats.

In her first meeting after the general elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here and termed it as "good".

In her first meeting after the general elections, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi here and termed it as "good". This is also Banerjee's first meeting with the Prime Minister after two years and the first after he was elected to power for the second time in bitterly-fought elections including in West Bengal where the BJP has made spectacular gains. "We had a good meeting. I had plans to meet the Prime Minister but due to some unwanted incidents the plan could not take shape," she said. During the meeting, the issue of West Bengal's name change to Bangla was discussed. The Chief Minister made it clear that any suggestion from the Centre will be accepted. "Bengal is open to any 'addition or alternation' on the name change," Banerjee said. The Chief Minister specifically mentioned that the meeting was "government to government sans political interferences". "We need to keep faith in the Constitution and democracy. Both state government and central government are elected and need to work towards development," Banerjee remarked. Other issues discussed in the meeting were the merger of public sector banks. Moreover, Banerjee handed over a prepared plan to the Prime Minister on how West Bengal performed in the last eight years. The TMC supremo arrived in the national capital on Tuesday to pay a courtesy call with the Prime Minister. Banerjee said she will seek an appointment with Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday. At present, BJP is the key opponent of TMC after the former performed exceptionally well in West Bengal during the Lok Sabha elections, where the party won 18 seats.

Mamata Banerjee meets PM Modi in Delhi, says meeting was 'good'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-views-are-heard-much-more-clearly-today-s-jaishankar-on-100-days-of-mea-250207">External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar</a> on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction.

"I think most of the issues related to Kartarpur Sahib have been resolved. I think they are moving in the right direction and there is an expectation, there is a deadline, which we have to meet so we are confident of doing that," the EAM said during a briefing on the 100-day achievements of the MEA under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term in power.

When asked about the possibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the UNGA, the EAM hinted at no such meeting taking place in the US.

"Regarding UNGA, whether there will be a meeting between the leaders of India and Pakistan, in principle I don't comment on what can happen. However just look at the climate of relations right now, I think that itself should give you an answer", Jaishankar said while replying to a question.

Earlier on Monday, Pakistan's Project Director on the corridor, Atif Majeed had said that Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on November 9, just two days before the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev.

Earlier that day, a team of Union Home Ministry officials inspected the ongoing construction work for Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in the Indian state of Punjab.

India has asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge $20 as service charge from pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan.

The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday said the government was confident of meeting Kartarpur corridor deadline and the work on the same is moving in the right direction. "I think most of the issues related to Kartarpur Sahib have been resolved. I think they are moving in the right direction and there is an expectation, there is a deadline, which we have to meet so we are confident of doing that," the EAM said during a briefing on the 100-day achievements of the MEA under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term in power. When asked about the possibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi meeting his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the UNGA, the EAM hinted at no such meeting taking place in the US. "Regarding UNGA, whether there will be a meeting between the leaders of India and Pakistan, in principle I don't comment on what can happen. However just look at the climate of relations right now, I think that itself should give you an answer", Jaishankar said while replying to a question. Earlier on Monday, Pakistan's Project Director on the corridor, Atif Majeed had said that Pakistan will inaugurate Kartarpur corridor on November 9, just two days before the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev. Earlier that day, a team of Union Home Ministry officials inspected the ongoing construction work for Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side at Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur in the Indian state of Punjab. India has asked Pakistan to "reconsider" its decision to charge $20 as service charge from pilgrims to visit the Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara in Pakistan. The corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Sikh faith founder Guru Nanak Dev.

Work moving in right direction, confident of meeting deadline: Jaishankar on Kartarpur corridor

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing Indian-Americans at Howdy Modi event in Houston, Texas on September 22.&nbsp;

In a major diplomatic development, President Donald Trump will also attend the event which will celebrate&nbsp;the contributions of Indian-Americans.&nbsp;The diaspora summit is being organised by the Texas India Forum.&nbsp;

It is a big diplomatic boost for India and shows the proximity between the two leaders. Trump's participation also symbolises that the ties between India and the US remain intact and strategic partnership continues to grow despite the countries facing some tensions like the trade conflict.

Trump and Modi are expected to discuss ways to deepen the energy and trade ties between the world's oldest and largest democracies

It will also be a good opportunity for Trump to interact with a strong crowd of over 50,000 Indian-Americans who are an influential voter base in the US.

Elections are due in the US in 2020 and Texas is estimated to have more than 2.5 lakh Indian-Americans.&nbsp;

It also means clear support to India on the Kashmir issue. Earlier at G7 Summit in August, Trump had clarified that the US considers Kashmir a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.

This will certainly give jitters to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan who had claimed a victory after Trump on July 22 had announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked him to meditate.&nbsp;

Pakistan stands isolated on the global front. Ignoring Khan's appeal, Islamic countries have also maintained that Kashmir is India's integral issue. Left with no choice, Imran Khan and his ministers have been threatening India with a Nuclear War.

The event will give&nbsp;a clear message to Pakistan ahead of annual UN General Assembly session on September 27 when Modi and Imran are scheduled to address global leaders on Kasmir issue.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing Indian-Americans at Howdy Modi event in Houston, Texas on September 22. In a major diplomatic development, President Donald Trump will also attend the event which will celebrate the contributions of Indian-Americans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing Indian-Americans at Howdy Modi event in Houston, Texas on September 22. In a major diplomatic development, President Donald Trump will also attend the event which will celebrate the contributions of Indian-Americans. The diaspora summit is being organised by the Texas India Forum. It is a big diplomatic boost for India and shows the proximity between the two leaders. Trump's participation also symbolises that the ties between India and the US remain intact and strategic partnership continues to grow despite the countries facing some tensions like the trade conflict. Trump and Modi are expected to discuss ways to deepen the energy and trade ties between the world's oldest and largest democracies It will also be a good opportunity for Trump to interact with a strong crowd of over 50,000 Indian-Americans who are an influential voter base in the US. Elections are due in the US in 2020 and Texas is estimated to have more than 2.5 lakh Indian-Americans. It also means clear support to India on the Kashmir issue. Earlier at G7 Summit in August, Trump had clarified that the US considers Kashmir a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. This will certainly give jitters to Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan who had claimed a victory after Trump on July 22 had announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked him to meditate. Pakistan stands isolated on the global front. Ignoring Khan's appeal, Islamic countries have also maintained that Kashmir is India's integral issue. Left with no choice, Imran Khan and his ministers have been threatening India with a Nuclear War. The event will give a clear message to Pakistan ahead of annual UN General Assembly session on September 27 when Modi and Imran are scheduled to address global leaders on Kasmir issue. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

How 'Howdy, Modi' event benefits Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump - and upsets Imran Khan

India has formally requested Islamabad to permit PM Modi's plane to use Pakistan airspace during his upcoming visit to US. PM Modi will be in United States from September 21 to 27 for big-ticket events like 'Howdy Modi' in Houston and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

India has formally requested Islamabad to permit PM Modi's plane to use Pakistan airspace during his upcoming visit to US. PM Modi will be in United States from September 21 to 27 for big-ticket events like 'Howdy Modi' in Houston and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). New Delhi had sent the request last week. However, Pakistan is yet to respond. Pakistan has to respond before September 20. A rejection this time will be considered a violation of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization charter). Under the charter, unless it's war, denying the use of airspace by singling out cannot be done by any country. New Delhi can take Pakistan to ICOA where the country can be slapped with a heavy fine. Earlier this month, India had requested Islamabad to allow President Ram Nath Kovind's plane to use the Pakistani airspace during his Europe visit but it was rejected. While rejecting the Indian request, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said, "Indian government had asked Pakistan to use its airspace for its president's movement. Given the current situation, we have decided not to give permission to India for this airspace usage" India regretted Pakistan's "futile" decision of not allowing President Ram Nath Kovind's plane to use the country's airspace. Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "To deny overflight clearance for the VVIP special flight which is otherwise granted routinely by any normal country. We call upon Pakistan to recognise the futility of such unilateral actions." Last month India had requested Islamabad to grant the use of airspace for Prime minister Narendra Modi's visit to France which the country allowed despite the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions. This led to considerable political fallout in the country since on one hand, Imran Khan government was castigating India on its August 5 ''internal decision'' to remove a special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and on the other hand allowing the use of airspace by Indian VVIPs. Pakistan government after a cabinet meeting had then announced that it is considering closing its airspace for India but airspace remains open and no decision has been taken regarding the matter yet. Pakistan had closed its airspace on February 27 after India's counter-terror operation in Balakot on February 26 on the back of Pulwama attack that killed more than 40 Indian security personnel. The closure that lasted for more than four months had caused considerable problem globally.

India formally requests Pakistan to allow PM Modi's plane to use its airspace 

“Don’t find fault, find a remedy”, said Henry Ford famously. This quote exemplifies the visionary, problem-solving leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chose to bring in the biggest indirect tax reform in post-independent India by implementing the GST.

The Manmohan Singh government sat lazily on the Kelkar committee recommendations for almost 10 years. The obnoxious attempt by Modi baiters to compare GST execution in India, with say, Singapore, is futile.

Within a year of implementing GST, Singapore witnessed skyrocketing inflation at 8.4 per cent, whereas the average retail inflation in India has consistently been below 4 per cent in the post-GST era.

Post the path-breaking GST, 1,186 goods comprising 97.69 per cent of the 1,214 goods that are widely used and were earlier taxed at almost 28-31 per cent, are now taxed at just 18 per cent or even lower.

In the last 100 days of Modi’s second term, landmark steps were taken that showcased Modinomics at its best. The decision to cut Employees’ State Insurance Act (ESIC) contribution from 6.5 per cent to 4 per cent, which will benefit 3.6 crore employees and 12.85 lakh employers, the step to develop 17 iconic tourist sites as world-famous tourist spots were among them. 
 
Also, the decision to set up 75 new government medical colleges by 2021 to boost medical education, aim to give scholarships in next five years to 5 crore underprivileged students of which 50 per cent are girls, under the “Go Tribal” scheme, removing “angel tax” to boost start-ups, Rs 6,000 per annum income support, which will benefit over 5 crore small and marginal farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana having been the turning points. 
 
Other schemes include a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to small traders and shopkeepers in the unorganised sector after they attain 60 years of age under the PM Shram Yogi MandhanYojana, reducing corporate tax rate to 25 per cent for MSMEs with a turnover up to Rs 400 crore, bill to repeal 58 archaic laws including outdated labour laws and more importantly, passing the Code on Wages Bill 2019, which will benefit over 500 million workers across the country.&nbsp;

Manmohanomics had abdicated all responsibilities to more than 70 GOMs and EGOMs that ruled by proxy as part of Sonia Gandhi’s kitchen cabinet between 2004-2014, compromising both the legitimacy and the credibility of the Prime Minister’s office.

In sharp contrast, good governance under Narendra Modi has taken a whole new dimension with 30 new bills being cleared in the just-concluded monsoon session of the Parliament.

India moving up by a good 65 places at rank 77 in the World Bank’s global Ease of Doing Business (EODB) rankings in the first four years of Modi’s first term is a case in point.&nbsp;

Apart from this, be it launching Rupay cards in Abu Dhabi and Bhutan or powering the India story at G20, G7, SCO, BRICS or more recently at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Modinomics has mastered the subtle art of marrying international diplomacy, soft power and economic linkages. Besides the world’s biggest healthcare scheme like Ayushman Bharat covering over 17,000 hospitals — which have till date benef Undoubtedly, if there is one scheme that has revolutionalised the lives of millions of women, it is the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) with the number of beneficiaries touching the 8-crore mark recently.&nbsp;

The gas sector is an excellent example of Modi government’s governance motto of “Reform, Perform, Transform”. What a pity that despite ruling India for the better part of the last 70 plus years, neither the Congress, nor its family retainers did anything to strengthen the gas ecosystem or to reduce India’s dependence on traditional fuel sources. Realising the vulnerabilities of India’s fuel economy, the Modi government put in place various initiatives to empower India’s gas based-economy, including plans to set up 5,000 compressed bio-gas plants by 2022-23, to convert agri-waste into bio-CNG.

All these efforts will help fulfil India’s global commitment of reducing emission intensity by 33-35 per cent and producing minimum 40 per cent electricity from non-conventional sources by 2030.

By early 2019, the Modi government had achieved all of these — electrification of over 2.5 crore households under the Saubhagya Yojana; over 1.9 lakh km of roads built under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, vaccination of well over 3.28 crore people under the Indradhanush scheme, building 9.56 crore toilets under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, commissioning of over 33 crore LED bulbs that saved over Rs 17,000 crore; making 5,36,724 villages Open Defecation Free (ODF); distribution of over Rs 5.37 lakh crore via DBT to the rural and urban poor; covering 5,441 schools under Atal Tinkering Labs; due recognition to 14,706 start-ups; 23.66 lakh registered users under the Swayam scheme; benefits to 2.38 crore pensioners under the Jeevan Pramaan scheme and 1.24 crore people under the Atal Pension Yojana; extending paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for pregnant women.&nbsp;

It has also established over 13,000 Kaushal Vikas Kendras; disbursed over Rs 35,000 crore to Indian armed forces and veterans under the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme; extended accident insurance to over 13.98 crore people under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha BimaYojana (PMSBY), life cover to over 5.47 crore Indians under the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and insurance to over 14.39 crore farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana ( PMFBY); distributed over 17.17 crore Soil Health Cards (SHCs); distributed over Rs. 1.69 lakh crore as subsidies via Aadhaar; over 1.35 crore farmers covered under e-NAM for better pricing of farm produce, set up of over 3.8 lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs), versus just 84,000 that existed in 2014. The government also opened over 36 crore Jan Dhan accounts, of which more than 50 per cent&nbsp;belong to women, to ensure universal financial inclusion. Modinomics is endearingly Glocal-Global in its approach without losing its local flavour and that is precisely what makes it so relevant in contemporary times.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-modinomics-cogently-unplugged-2790290">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;

“Don’t find fault, find a remedy”, said Henry Ford famously. This quote exemplifies the visionary, problem-solving leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chose to bring in the biggest indirect tax reform in post-independent India by implementing the GST.

“Don’t find fault, find a remedy”, said Henry Ford famously. This quote exemplifies the visionary, problem-solving leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who chose to bring in the biggest indirect tax reform in post-independent India by implementing the GST. The Manmohan Singh government sat lazily on the Kelkar committee recommendations for almost 10 years. The obnoxious attempt by Modi baiters to compare GST execution in India, with say, Singapore, is futile. Within a year of implementing GST, Singapore witnessed skyrocketing inflation at 8.4 per cent, whereas the average retail inflation in India has consistently been below 4 per cent in the post-GST era. Post the path-breaking GST, 1,186 goods comprising 97.69 per cent of the 1,214 goods that are widely used and were earlier taxed at almost 28-31 per cent, are now taxed at just 18 per cent or even lower. In the last 100 days of Modi’s second term, landmark steps were taken that showcased Modinomics at its best. The decision to cut Employees’ State Insurance Act (ESIC) contribution from 6.5 per cent to 4 per cent, which will benefit 3.6 crore employees and 12.85 lakh employers, the step to develop 17 iconic tourist sites as world-famous tourist spots were among them. Also, the decision to set up 75 new government medical colleges by 2021 to boost medical education, aim to give scholarships in next five years to 5 crore underprivileged students of which 50 per cent are girls, under the “Go Tribal” scheme, removing “angel tax” to boost start-ups, Rs 6,000 per annum income support, which will benefit over 5 crore small and marginal farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana having been the turning points. Other schemes include a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 to small traders and shopkeepers in the unorganised sector after they attain 60 years of age under the PM Shram Yogi MandhanYojana, reducing corporate tax rate to 25 per cent for MSMEs with a turnover up to Rs 400 crore, bill to repeal 58 archaic laws including outdated labour laws and more importantly, passing the Code on Wages Bill 2019, which will benefit over 500 million workers across the country. Manmohanomics had abdicated all responsibilities to more than 70 GOMs and EGOMs that ruled by proxy as part of Sonia Gandhi’s kitchen cabinet between 2004-2014, compromising both the legitimacy and the credibility of the Prime Minister’s office. In sharp contrast, good governance under Narendra Modi has taken a whole new dimension with 30 new bills being cleared in the just-concluded monsoon session of the Parliament. India moving up by a good 65 places at rank 77 in the World Bank’s global Ease of Doing Business (EODB) rankings in the first four years of Modi’s first term is a case in point. Apart from this, be it launching Rupay cards in Abu Dhabi and Bhutan or powering the India story at G20, G7, SCO, BRICS or more recently at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Modinomics has mastered the subtle art of marrying international diplomacy, soft power and economic linkages. Besides the world’s biggest healthcare scheme like Ayushman Bharat covering over 17,000 hospitals — which have till date benef Undoubtedly, if there is one scheme that has revolutionalised the lives of millions of women, it is the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) with the number of beneficiaries touching the 8-crore mark recently. The gas sector is an excellent example of Modi government’s governance motto of “Reform, Perform, Transform”. What a pity that despite ruling India for the better part of the last 70 plus years, neither the Congress, nor its family retainers did anything to strengthen the gas ecosystem or to reduce India’s dependence on traditional fuel sources. Realising the vulnerabilities of India’s fuel economy, the Modi government put in place various initiatives to empower India’s gas based-economy, including plans to set up 5,000 compressed bio-gas plants by 2022-23, to convert agri-waste into bio-CNG. All these efforts will help fulfil India’s global commitment of reducing emission intensity by 33-35 per cent and producing minimum 40 per cent electricity from non-conventional sources by 2030. By early 2019, the Modi government had achieved all of these — electrification of over 2.5 crore households under the Saubhagya Yojana; over 1.9 lakh km of roads built under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, vaccination of well over 3.28 crore people under the Indradhanush scheme, building 9.56 crore toilets under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan, commissioning of over 33 crore LED bulbs that saved over Rs 17,000 crore; making 5,36,724 villages Open Defecation Free (ODF); distribution of over Rs 5.37 lakh crore via DBT to the rural and urban poor; covering 5,441 schools under Atal Tinkering Labs; due recognition to 14,706 start-ups; 23.66 lakh registered users under the Swayam scheme; benefits to 2.38 crore pensioners under the Jeevan Pramaan scheme and 1.24 crore people under the Atal Pension Yojana; extending paid maternity leave from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for pregnant women. It has also established over 13,000 Kaushal Vikas Kendras; disbursed over Rs 35,000 crore to Indian armed forces and veterans under the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme; extended accident insurance to over 13.98 crore people under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha BimaYojana (PMSBY), life cover to over 5.47 crore Indians under the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and insurance to over 14.39 crore farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana ( PMFBY); distributed over 17.17 crore Soil Health Cards (SHCs); distributed over Rs. 1.69 lakh crore as subsidies via Aadhaar; over 1.35 crore farmers covered under e-NAM for better pricing of farm produce, set up of over 3.8 lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs), versus just 84,000 that existed in 2014. The government also opened over 36 crore Jan Dhan accounts, of which more than 50 per cent belong to women, to ensure universal financial inclusion. Modinomics is endearingly Glocal-Global in its approach without losing its local flavour and that is precisely what makes it so relevant in contemporary times. (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)

In its second term, government has taken landmark steps that showcased Modinomics at its best

Forty-four members of the US Congress have urged President Donald Trump's trade representative to restore trade concessions to India, saying the withdrawal of the privilege had led to retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi which were hurting US industry.

In June, the United States ended its preferential trade treatment for India, removing it from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed duty-free entry for up to $5.6 billion worth of its annual exports to the United States.

The elimination of GSP brought higher retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi on 28 US products including almonds, apples and walnuts.

In the letter addressed to United State Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and dated September 17, the members of Congress said, "Just as US industries are harmed by lack of fair and reciprocal access to India's market, American companies and workers also are harmed by new tariffs due to the GSP termination."

A lot of American jobs depend on the trade between India and the United States, the US lawmakers said in the letter seen by Reuters.

The letter comes days ahead of a meeting between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

After the Trump administration’s decision to remove trade privileges from Indian products under the GSP, US and Indian trade negotiators met in July. But they failed to make any major progress on the issue of tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by both sides.

The two sides had resumed trade talks after Trump and Modi met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in June and agreed to seek to deepen the two countries’ relationship.

Other than seeking the rollback of Indian tariffs imposed on agricultural products like almonds and apples, Washington has also expressed its concerns over India’s tightening of regulations that have undermined major US e-commerce companies like Walmart’s Flipkart and Amazon.

India is by far the largest buyer of US almonds, paying $543 million for more than half of US almond exports in 2018, according to US Department of Agriculture. It is the second-largest buyer of US apples, taking $156 million worth in 2018.

On September 22, Trump, who has repeatedly called out India for its high tariffs, will travel to Houston, Texas, to participate in an event with Modi and to "discuss ways to deepen their energy and trade relationship."

Modi will visit Houston to participate in an event called "Howdy Modi! Shared Dreams, Bright Futures," at the NRG Stadium which is expected to draw tens of thousands of people.

Forty-four members of the US Congress have urged President Donald Trump's trade representative to restore trade concessions to India, saying the withdrawal of the privilege had led to retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi which were hurting US industry.

Forty-four members of the US Congress have urged President Donald Trump's trade representative to restore trade concessions to India, saying the withdrawal of the privilege had led to retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi which were hurting US industry. In June, the United States ended its preferential trade treatment for India, removing it from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed duty-free entry for up to $5.6 billion worth of its annual exports to the United States. The elimination of GSP brought higher retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi on 28 US products including almonds, apples and walnuts. In the letter addressed to United State Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and dated September 17, the members of Congress said, "Just as US industries are harmed by lack of fair and reciprocal access to India's market, American companies and workers also are harmed by new tariffs due to the GSP termination." A lot of American jobs depend on the trade between India and the United States, the US lawmakers said in the letter seen by Reuters. The letter comes days ahead of a meeting between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the Trump administration’s decision to remove trade privileges from Indian products under the GSP, US and Indian trade negotiators met in July. But they failed to make any major progress on the issue of tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by both sides. The two sides had resumed trade talks after Trump and Modi met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in June and agreed to seek to deepen the two countries’ relationship. Other than seeking the rollback of Indian tariffs imposed on agricultural products like almonds and apples, Washington has also expressed its concerns over India’s tightening of regulations that have undermined major US e-commerce companies like Walmart’s Flipkart and Amazon. India is by far the largest buyer of US almonds, paying $543 million for more than half of US almond exports in 2018, according to US Department of Agriculture. It is the second-largest buyer of US apples, taking $156 million worth in 2018. On September 22, Trump, who has repeatedly called out India for its high tariffs, will travel to Houston, Texas, to participate in an event with Modi and to "discuss ways to deepen their energy and trade relationship." Modi will visit Houston to participate in an event called "Howdy Modi! Shared Dreams, Bright Futures," at the NRG Stadium which is expected to draw tens of thousands of people.

US lawmakers urge Trump administration to restore India's trade privileges

Highlighting the achievements of the first 100 days of his government on his 69th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that Article 370 was abrogated to solve a decades-long problem and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the inspiration behind the decision.

He also said that his government has taken several steps in the first 100 days of its second tenure to double the income of farmers'&nbsp;families.

"The country is realising Sardar's dream of Ek Bharat, Shreshta Bharat (One India, Great India). Today, the country is trying to complete the tasks which were left incomplete during Independence and years thereafter," he said."People of Jammu and Kashmir had to face discrimination for 70 years.

The entire nation suffered the ill-effects and violence, unfulfilled hopes and aspirations. The country has taken an important decision with the inspiration of Sardar Saheb," he said while addressing a public meeting here at the site of Sardar Sarovar Dam.

In August, Parliament had scrapped Article 370 which gave special rights to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Modi said the decision has been taken to follow a new path to solve the decades-long problem.

"I am confident that with the active support of millions of colleagues from Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Kargil, we will be able to create a new stream of development and trust. I am fully committed to the unity and greatness of India. We have strengthened this commitment in the last 100 days," he added.

The Prime Minister, who was on a visit to his home state, outlined the benefits of PM Kisan scheme and pension scheme for farmers and small traders.

"Continuous efforts are on to double the income of every farming family of the country including Gujarat by 2022. After the formation of the new government, several steps have been taken in this direction in the last 100 days. Farmers are getting benefits of PM Kisan scheme. Pension scheme for farmers and small traders has also been started," he said.

The National Pension Scheme for traders and self-employed aims at providing a minimum assured pension of Rs 3000 to small traders and self-employed after attaining the age of 60.

Around three crore small traders are expected to benefit from the scheme.

Modi said that the Statue of Unity brought Kevadia and state of Gujarat on the tourism map of the world.

The Prime Minister highlighted that more than 23 lakh people have come to see the tallest statue of the world since it was unveiled last year.

"The discussion of the Statue of Unity is natural when it comes to tourism. Due to this, Kevadia and Gujarat have figured prominently on the tourism map of the whole world. It was unveiled only 11 months ago, but so far more than 23 lakh tourists have come here from within the country and around the world," he said.

"An average of 8,500 tourists are coming every day to the Statue of Unity. I am told that on the day of Janmashtami last month, more than 34,000 tourists reached here. Only 10,000 visit Statue of Liberty in America every day. It was constructed 133 years ago," he added.

Modi had announced to build the statue when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat in memory of India`s first Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Patel who is credited with uniting all 562 princely states of pre-independent India.

The 182-metre statue is located on Sadhu Bet Island on Narmada river in Gujarat.

The Prime Minister said that when all projects related to Statue of Unity will be completed it will pave way for new employment opportunities for local people."Statue of Unity is also becoming a new medium of employment for the tribal sisters, brothers and youth of this place.

In the coming days when the roads and other projects related to tourism here will get completed, it will generate new employment opportunities," he said.

Highlighting the achievements of the first 100 days of his government on his 69th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that Article 370 was abrogated to solve a decades-long problem and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the inspiration behind the decision.

Highlighting the achievements of the first 100 days of his government on his 69th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that Article 370 was abrogated to solve a decades-long problem and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the inspiration behind the decision. He also said that his government has taken several steps in the first 100 days of its second tenure to double the income of farmers' families. "The country is realising Sardar's dream of Ek Bharat, Shreshta Bharat (One India, Great India). Today, the country is trying to complete the tasks which were left incomplete during Independence and years thereafter," he said."People of Jammu and Kashmir had to face discrimination for 70 years. The entire nation suffered the ill-effects and violence, unfulfilled hopes and aspirations. The country has taken an important decision with the inspiration of Sardar Saheb," he said while addressing a public meeting here at the site of Sardar Sarovar Dam. In August, Parliament had scrapped Article 370 which gave special rights to Jammu and Kashmir and also bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Modi said the decision has been taken to follow a new path to solve the decades-long problem. "I am confident that with the active support of millions of colleagues from Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Kargil, we will be able to create a new stream of development and trust. I am fully committed to the unity and greatness of India. We have strengthened this commitment in the last 100 days," he added. The Prime Minister, who was on a visit to his home state, outlined the benefits of PM Kisan scheme and pension scheme for farmers and small traders. "Continuous efforts are on to double the income of every farming family of the country including Gujarat by 2022. After the formation of the new government, several steps have been taken in this direction in the last 100 days. Farmers are getting benefits of PM Kisan scheme. Pension scheme for farmers and small traders has also been started," he said. The National Pension Scheme for traders and self-employed aims at providing a minimum assured pension of Rs 3000 to small traders and self-employed after attaining the age of 60. Around three crore small traders are expected to benefit from the scheme. Modi said that the Statue of Unity brought Kevadia and state of Gujarat on the tourism map of the world. The Prime Minister highlighted that more than 23 lakh people have come to see the tallest statue of the world since it was unveiled last year. "The discussion of the Statue of Unity is natural when it comes to tourism. Due to this, Kevadia and Gujarat have figured prominently on the tourism map of the whole world. It was unveiled only 11 months ago, but so far more than 23 lakh tourists have come here from within the country and around the world," he said. "An average of 8,500 tourists are coming every day to the Statue of Unity. I am told that on the day of Janmashtami last month, more than 34,000 tourists reached here. Only 10,000 visit Statue of Liberty in America every day. It was constructed 133 years ago," he added. Modi had announced to build the statue when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat in memory of India`s first Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Patel who is credited with uniting all 562 princely states of pre-independent India. The 182-metre statue is located on Sadhu Bet Island on Narmada river in Gujarat. The Prime Minister said that when all projects related to Statue of Unity will be completed it will pave way for new employment opportunities for local people."Statue of Unity is also becoming a new medium of employment for the tribal sisters, brothers and youth of this place. In the coming days when the roads and other projects related to tourism here will get completed, it will generate new employment opportunities," he said.

Patel inspired decision on J&K; took multiple steps to double farmers' income by 2022: PM in Gujarat

Companies in India will seek exemptions from the government's planned ban on certain plastic items, fearing the move will disrupt supply chains and raise costs ahead of a festive season, according to sources and an industry document seen by Reuters.

India is likely to impose a nationwide ban on plastic bags, cups, small bottles, straws and some types of sachets next month as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to reduce use of pollution-causing, single-use plastic.

But the plans have stoked fears among consumer firms, which, use plastic in packaging for everything from sodas and biscuits to ketchup and shampoo.

"This has created an existential issue for multiple sectors," said the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), a lobby group, in a two-page draft note, seen by Reuters, which is likely to be finalised and sent to the government in the coming days.

The CII will ask the government to consult industry executives and define what will be categorised as single-use plastics, while also pitching for some exemptions, according to the note.

It says small-sized plastic bottles used for pharmaceutical or health products should be exempted as there is no alternate available. Sachets made from so-called multi-layered packaging should also not be banned, as that could disrupt supplies of key products such as biscuits, salt and milk, the CII draft says.

A senior Indian government official said several industry representations were being reviewed, but the aim was to "get rid of the menace of plastic pollution" without causing disruption.

In an Independence Day speech on August 15, Modi urged people and government agencies to "take the first big step" on October&nbsp;2 towards freeing India of single-use plastic.

India lacks a system for management of plastic waste, but environmentalists have hailed Modi's move, saying it will help combat plastic waste that chokes rivers and drains.

A ban on certain plastics from October&nbsp;2, however, will come just weeks ahead of big Hindu festivals for which business plans are laid out far in advance because they typically see a sharp rise in consumer purchases.

Two industry sources said Amazon.com Inc, which uses plastics in its packaging, has been concerned that a possible ban could disrupt its operations ahead of festivities, and during its mega annual discount sale that starts September 29.

In recent weeks, executives from Coca-Cola Co, PepsiCo and consumer goods seller Hindustan Unilever have been part of industry delegations that met government officials to express concerns and discuss alternate packaging solutions, according to a person with direct knowledge.

Coca-Cola said in a statement that all its primary packaging does not consist of single-use plastic. Pepsi said its target was to make 100 per cent of its packaging recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable by 2025. Hindustan Unilever did not respond to a request for comment.

Amazon did not respond but has previously said that it plans to replace single-use plastic in its packaging by June 2020.

"The ban has ramifications for all sectors like food processing, dairy, garments, toys," said Jayesh Rambhia of All India Plastic Manufacturers Association, which has 22,000 companies as members. "People, and companies are pulling their hair today." 
&nbsp;

Companies in India will seek exemptions from the government's planned ban on certain plastic items, fearing the move will disrupt supply chains and raise costs ahead of a festive season, according to sources and an industry document seen by Reuters.

Companies in India will seek exemptions from the government's planned ban on certain plastic items, fearing the move will disrupt supply chains and raise costs ahead of a festive season, according to sources and an industry document seen by Reuters. India is likely to impose a nationwide ban on plastic bags, cups, small bottles, straws and some types of sachets next month as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to reduce use of pollution-causing, single-use plastic. But the plans have stoked fears among consumer firms, which, use plastic in packaging for everything from sodas and biscuits to ketchup and shampoo. "This has created an existential issue for multiple sectors," said the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), a lobby group, in a two-page draft note, seen by Reuters, which is likely to be finalised and sent to the government in the coming days. The CII will ask the government to consult industry executives and define what will be categorised as single-use plastics, while also pitching for some exemptions, according to the note. It says small-sized plastic bottles used for pharmaceutical or health products should be exempted as there is no alternate available. Sachets made from so-called multi-layered packaging should also not be banned, as that could disrupt supplies of key products such as biscuits, salt and milk, the CII draft says. A senior Indian government official said several industry representations were being reviewed, but the aim was to "get rid of the menace of plastic pollution" without causing disruption. In an Independence Day speech on August 15, Modi urged people and government agencies to "take the first big step" on October 2 towards freeing India of single-use plastic. India lacks a system for management of plastic waste, but environmentalists have hailed Modi's move, saying it will help combat plastic waste that chokes rivers and drains. A ban on certain plastics from October 2, however, will come just weeks ahead of big Hindu festivals for which business plans are laid out far in advance because they typically see a sharp rise in consumer purchases. Two industry sources said Amazon.com Inc, which uses plastics in its packaging, has been concerned that a possible ban could disrupt its operations ahead of festivities, and during its mega annual discount sale that starts September 29. In recent weeks, executives from Coca-Cola Co, PepsiCo and consumer goods seller Hindustan Unilever have been part of industry delegations that met government officials to express concerns and discuss alternate packaging solutions, according to a person with direct knowledge. Coca-Cola said in a statement that all its primary packaging does not consist of single-use plastic. Pepsi said its target was to make 100 per cent of its packaging recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable by 2025. Hindustan Unilever did not respond to a request for comment. Amazon did not respond but has previously said that it plans to replace single-use plastic in its packaging by June 2020. "The ban has ramifications for all sectors like food processing, dairy, garments, toys," said Jayesh Rambhia of All India Plastic Manufacturers Association, which has 22,000 companies as members. "People, and companies are pulling their hair today."

Spooked by Narendra Modi's plastics ban, companies seek clarity, exemptions

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar on Tuesday addressed a press conference in Delhi during&nbsp;which he highlighted achievements of the foreign ministry in first 100 days of Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/last-100-days-were-defined-by-change-pm-modi-sounds-poll-bugle-in-haryana-248422">Narendra Modi government</a>.&nbsp;

Talking about India-US relations, Jaishankar said that it has&nbsp;"come a long way,"&nbsp;and assured that it is in "very good health."&nbsp;

"India-US relations have come a long way, I assure you that relations are in very good health. As the relationship grows there will be issues. We've been talking to the US, my expectation is that the sharper edges will be addressed in the not too distant future."

On India's&nbsp;relations with its neighbouring countries, Jaishankar said,&nbsp;"We hope to build a better, stronger neighbourhood but recognising that we have a unique challenge from one neighbour (Pakistan) until the issue of cross border terrorism is successfully addressed."

"There is a strong link between domestic and foreign policy, " Jaishankar said, adding, "The co-relation between our national policy goals and foreign policy goals has become stronger."

"I think today if you look at the big debates at multilateral forums - G20, BRICS, you will see that the Indian voice, Indian views are today heard much more clearly," the foreign minister added.

Referring to PM Modi's&nbsp;upcoming US visit, Jaishankar said, "The diaspora is, of course, the forte and in many ways somewhat unique aspect of our foreign policy and that is underlined by what is going to be coming up very soon in the United States which is a big diaspora event in partnership with our Indian-American community."

PM Modi will address the largest Indian diaspora event in Houston, Texas on September 22, which will see the participation of 50,000 people, mostly Indian Americans.

The event will also be attended by US President Donald Trump.

The event, bigger than the Madison Square Garden diaspora event in New York in 2014, is being hosted by Texas India Forum.

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in the US between September 21 and 27 during which he will also address the United Nations General Assembly, meet US CEOs and hold several bilaterals with many world leaders. This is the second Modi will be addressing the UNGA.

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar on Tuesday addressed a press conference in Delhi during which he highlighted achievements of the foreign ministry in first 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi government.

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar on Tuesday addressed a press conference in Delhi during which he highlighted achievements of the foreign ministry in first 100 days of Prime Minister Narendra Modi government. Talking about India-US relations, Jaishankar said that it has "come a long way," and assured that it is in "very good health." "India-US relations have come a long way, I assure you that relations are in very good health. As the relationship grows there will be issues. We've been talking to the US, my expectation is that the sharper edges will be addressed in the not too distant future." On India's relations with its neighbouring countries, Jaishankar said, "We hope to build a better, stronger neighbourhood but recognising that we have a unique challenge from one neighbour (Pakistan) until the issue of cross border terrorism is successfully addressed." "There is a strong link between domestic and foreign policy, " Jaishankar said, adding, "The co-relation between our national policy goals and foreign policy goals has become stronger." "I think today if you look at the big debates at multilateral forums - G20, BRICS, you will see that the Indian voice, Indian views are today heard much more clearly," the foreign minister added. Referring to PM Modi's upcoming US visit, Jaishankar said, "The diaspora is, of course, the forte and in many ways somewhat unique aspect of our foreign policy and that is underlined by what is going to be coming up very soon in the United States which is a big diaspora event in partnership with our Indian-American community." PM Modi will address the largest Indian diaspora event in Houston, Texas on September 22, which will see the participation of 50,000 people, mostly Indian Americans. The event will also be attended by US President Donald Trump. The event, bigger than the Madison Square Garden diaspora event in New York in 2014, is being hosted by Texas India Forum. India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in the US between September 21 and 27 during which he will also address the United Nations General Assembly, meet US CEOs and hold several bilaterals with many world leaders. This is the second Modi will be addressing the UNGA.

India-US relations in very good health, says foreign minister S Jaishankar

Mongolia's President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be on a five-day state visit to India from September 19-23. The last time a Mongolian President visited India was in 2009 when the then Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj visited India.

Mongolia's President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be on a five-day state visit to India from September 19-23. The last time a Mongolian President visited India was in 2009 when the then Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj visited India. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "During the visit, the two sides will hold in-depth discussions on a range of bilateral, regional and global issues and will also review ongoing cooperation in fields of infrastructure, energy, disaster management, defence, security, culture and capacity building." "India-Mongolia Strategic Partnership is based on the ideals of freedom and democracy and on a strong foundation of our shared Buddhist heritage," the statement said. Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Battulga had met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia. India is helping the landlocked country build an oil refinery through a line of credit announced during PM Modi's visit to the country. In 2015, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country. Mongolia, which is landlocked between Russia and China considers India as its "third neighbour" with which it has a spiritual connection. Last few years have seen a number of high-level visits from India to Mongolia, including the visit of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in April 2018, former home minister Rajnath Singh on June 2018 and former minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju in July 2018.

First time in a decade, Mongolian President to visit India

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state.

Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said.

The proposed meeting comes at a time when former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar is being questioned by the CBI in connection with the multi-crore Saradha chit fund scam.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state. Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state. Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said. The proposed meeting comes at a time when former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar is being questioned by the CBI in connection with the multi-crore Saradha chit fund scam.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee likely to meet PM Modi on Wednesday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy and assured him of government's support as the US state seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with states in India.

A release from the PMO said that the Prime Minister received Murphy on Monday morning on his first visit to India in his present official capacity.

The governor is visiting Agra, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad apart from Delhi."Prime Minister Modi welcomed the Governor's desire to promote closer commercial and people-to-people relations between New Jersey and India and assured him of the Government of India's support as New Jersey seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with the Indian States," the release said.

It added that the Governor briefed the Prime Minister of his priorities for building his state`s relations with India and committed to working towards a robust partnership between India and the US.

Noting the commonalities between India and New Jersey, he mentioned the celebration of diversity and respect for plurality in India which he had&nbsp;witnessed since his arrival.

Modi noted with satisfaction that state of New Jersey, which hosts the highest concentration of Indian-American population in the US, has emerged as a top destination for India`s trade and investment.

Both dignitaries agreed to the significance of cooperation in STEM and higher education.

The release said that Prime Minister appreciated the personal attention paid by the Governor for the well-being of the Indian American community in New Jersey and stressed their importance as a bridge between India and their host country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy and assured him of government's support as the US state seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with states in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy and assured him of government's support as the US state seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with states in India. A release from the PMO said that the Prime Minister received Murphy on Monday morning on his first visit to India in his present official capacity. The governor is visiting Agra, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad apart from Delhi."Prime Minister Modi welcomed the Governor's desire to promote closer commercial and people-to-people relations between New Jersey and India and assured him of the Government of India's support as New Jersey seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with the Indian States," the release said. It added that the Governor briefed the Prime Minister of his priorities for building his state`s relations with India and committed to working towards a robust partnership between India and the US. Noting the commonalities between India and New Jersey, he mentioned the celebration of diversity and respect for plurality in India which he had witnessed since his arrival. Modi noted with satisfaction that state of New Jersey, which hosts the highest concentration of Indian-American population in the US, has emerged as a top destination for India`s trade and investment. Both dignitaries agreed to the significance of cooperation in STEM and higher education. The release said that Prime Minister appreciated the personal attention paid by the Governor for the well-being of the Indian American community in New Jersey and stressed their importance as a bridge between India and their host country.

Narendra Modi meets New Jersey Governor, assures support to boost cooperation with Indian states

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday condoled the demise of 11 people who died after a boat capsized in the Godavari River near Devipatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

"Extremely pained by the capsizing of a boat in Andhra Pradesh's East Godavari. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Rescue operations are currently underway at the site of the tragedy," Modi said in a tweet.

Singh also expressed his condolences on Twitter.

"Deeply anguished at the loss of precious lives due to capsizing of a boat in East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased," Singh tweeted.

Earlier today, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) had informed that 11 people lost their lives when a tourist boat ferrying 61 persons on board capsized in the river.

Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced Rs 10 lakh ex-gratia for bereaved families and asked for a complete report on the incident.

All the boating services in the region have been suspended.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday condoled the demise of 11 people who died after a boat capsized in the Godavari River near Devipatnam in Andhra Pradesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday condoled the demise of 11 people who died after a boat capsized in the Godavari River near Devipatnam in Andhra Pradesh. "Extremely pained by the capsizing of a boat in Andhra Pradesh's East Godavari. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. Rescue operations are currently underway at the site of the tragedy," Modi said in a tweet. Singh also expressed his condolences on Twitter. "Deeply anguished at the loss of precious lives due to capsizing of a boat in East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased," Singh tweeted. Earlier today, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) had informed that 11 people lost their lives when a tourist boat ferrying 61 persons on board capsized in the river. Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced Rs 10 lakh ex-gratia for bereaved families and asked for a complete report on the incident. All the boating services in the region have been suspended.

PM Narendra Modi, Rajnath Singh condole deaths after boat capsizes in Godavari River

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday.

"When I came to take charge of Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister told me that make Jammu and Kashmir shine so much that people of PoK would want to cross the border over to our side and say proudly, this is our Kashmir," Malik said addressing the audience at an event here.

Malik was speaking at the electronic foundation stone laying ceremony for the upcoming 100 bedded State Cancer Institute at Government Medical College hospital here.

The Jammu and Kashmir Governor said that the Centre was eager to help the people of the region and urged them to come forward with their demands.

"The Central government has given us 8 medical colleges this year alone, which is more than what has been given to any other state in the country. We are soon going to have 4,500 doctors in the state. This is the perfect time for development in the region, I would request the people to keep the pressure on their politicians. Union Home Minister Amit Shahji meeting sarpanch of the villages from the state is a sign that the Centre is standing there with open arms," Malik said.

He said that the upcoming cancer institute will prove to be very beneficial for the state's residents and recounted his own battle with the deadly disease.

"I did not want to come here, because I have personally battled cancer, although I think having a cancer institute is a big thing. But the reason I did not want to come here was because I lost my wife to cancer eight years ago, and I was with her at every step during the 11 years of her fight against the disease. I finally decided to come because this institute would give the people an opportunity to get cured," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told me to make Jammu and Kashmir so prosperous that the people of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) would want to come and settle here, said Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday. "When I came to take charge of Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister told me that make Jammu and Kashmir shine so much that people of PoK would want to cross the border over to our side and say proudly, this is our Kashmir," Malik said addressing the audience at an event here. Malik was speaking at the electronic foundation stone laying ceremony for the upcoming 100 bedded State Cancer Institute at Government Medical College hospital here. The Jammu and Kashmir Governor said that the Centre was eager to help the people of the region and urged them to come forward with their demands. "The Central government has given us 8 medical colleges this year alone, which is more than what has been given to any other state in the country. We are soon going to have 4,500 doctors in the state. This is the perfect time for development in the region, I would request the people to keep the pressure on their politicians. Union Home Minister Amit Shahji meeting sarpanch of the villages from the state is a sign that the Centre is standing there with open arms," Malik said. He said that the upcoming cancer institute will prove to be very beneficial for the state's residents and recounted his own battle with the deadly disease. "I did not want to come here, because I have personally battled cancer, although I think having a cancer institute is a big thing. But the reason I did not want to come here was because I lost my wife to cancer eight years ago, and I was with her at every step during the 11 years of her fight against the disease. I finally decided to come because this institute would give the people an opportunity to get cured," he said.

PM asked me to make J&K shine so that people of PoK want to come here: Governor Satya Pal Malik

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Houston, Texas on September 22 to address the Indian diaspora in the region. According to reports, US President Donald Trump is likely to attend the 'Howdy Modi' event.&nbsp;

According to reports, as many as 60 US lawmakers will be present at the mega event including Tulsi Gabbard.&nbsp;

The event comes before Trump and Modi attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York.&nbsp;

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13 days to go!!! Preparation for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HowdyModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HowdyModi</a> is at its peak and our A-Team is all set for this historic event! Are you ready? <a href="https://t.co/z048O5VpFD">pic.twitter.com/z048O5VpFD</a>
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The event is being organised by Texas India Forum.

'Howdy Modi' is a community summit that will take place on September 22 at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas at 10 am.

According to Texas India Forum, more than 50,000 people have already registered for the event which now stands sold-out.&nbsp;

"The live audience will be the largest gathering for an invited foreign leader visiting the United States other than the Pope," as mentioned on the website of Texas India Forum.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Houston, Texas on September 22 to address the Indian diaspora in the region. According to reports, US President Donald Trump is likely to attend the 'Howdy Modi' event.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Houston, Texas on September 22 to address the Indian diaspora in the region. According to reports, US President Donald Trump is likely to attend the 'Howdy Modi' event. According to reports, as many as 60 US lawmakers will be present at the mega event including Tulsi Gabbard. The event comes before Trump and Modi attend the United Nations General Assembly in New York. 13 days to go!!! Preparation for #HowdyModi is at its peak and our A-Team is all set for this historic event! Are you ready? pic.twitter.com/z048O5VpFD — Texas India Forum (@howdymodi) September 8, 2019 × The event is being organised by Texas India Forum. 'Howdy Modi' is a community summit that will take place on September 22 at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas at 10 am. According to Texas India Forum, more than 50,000 people have already registered for the event which now stands sold-out. "The live audience will be the largest gathering for an invited foreign leader visiting the United States other than the Pope," as mentioned on the website of Texas India Forum.

PM Modi to address Indian diaspora in Texas at 'Howdy Modi' event, likely to share stage with Trump

On August 5, by revoking the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) by Article 370, India scored a major victory against cross-border terrorism as well as separatism in the Valley. Hailed by many as a constitutional coup, the move paves the way to for the full integration of J&amp;K into the Union of India. This should have happened way back in 1947, after the signing of the instrument of accession on October 26. However, better late than never. Even if turning the former state into two union territories is unprecedented in the history of independent India, national interest as well as the good of the people of the region, is paramount.

Ladakh, which is also a separate Union Territory, will now have a much better chance to protect its unique religious and cultural heritage. The fragile Himalayan ecology of one of India’s most beautiful, rugged, and inaccessible parts must be preserved by regulating the pace and quantum of both development and access to the region. What is more the overt and covert Islamisation of the largely Buddhist area will also be checked. In a few more decades, the entire state, not just the Valley, faced the very real danger of not just being alienated, but lost to India, both culturally and politically. That most Indians understood this instinctively and emotionally even if not intellectually or rationally, is evident in the overwhelming public support for the government surgical strike on Article 370.

But what we might have perhaps failed fully to grasp is that though the constitutional battle has been won, the war over Kashmir is still being waged, but on other fronts. We have very carefully to monitor as well as manage the global narrative on Kashmir. This has been stacked, by and large, against India in the past. Both in the media and only marginally less so in international multilateral or bilateral fora, the United Nations (UN) being the key example of the former, as the United States is of the latter. Luckily, Pakistan has not made much headway in either so far. After getting US President Trump to offer to mediate, Pakistan’s Imran Khan had to eat humble pie after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi got Trump to retract. While US meddling, given their own troubles in Afghanistan, cannot be ruled out, India has managed to make its position loud and clear.

As to the UN, it has several platforms where Pakistan is likely to mount its Kashmir offensive. The latest skirmish, at the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC), is only one instance. India came out on top. On Tuesday, Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, denounced Pakistan’s “state sponsored terrorism” and underscored India’s right to revoke J&amp;K’s special status. Highlighting Pakistan’s shoddy and shameful human rights record, she sarcastically questioned our neighbour right to point fingers at us when “trampling upon them [human rights] at will in their own country.” She accused Pakistan’s of pushing a “malicious political agenda under the garb of human rights.”

Projecting India as a law-abiding, sovereign power, Singh said, “These decisions were taken by our Parliament after a full debate that was televised and enjoyed widespread support. We wish to reiterate that this sovereign decision, like other legislations passed by Parliament, is entirely internal to India. No country can accept interference in its internal affairs, certainly not India.” On Wednesday, first secretary to India’s permanent mission at the UNHRC, Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan, followed up by exposing “Pakistan’s hysterical statements with false, fabricated narratives aimed to politicise and polarize this forum.” Himself from J&amp;K, Aryan excoriated Pakistan for being “the epicentre of global terrorism,” encouraging violence by calling for jihad in J&amp;K and elsewhere.&nbsp;

In addition to trying to foment trouble in the Valley and mounting international pressure on India, Pakistan will also encourage its friends and proxies in foreign media houses to push its case. The leading newspapers and TV channels, not to mention national broadcasters, have often fallen for its victimhood narratives. In India, too, the last vestiges of Lutyens Delhi will also scream day in and day out that things are not normal in Kashmir. But when were they normal, we might ask them. Normalcy is only now returning to the region with the anomalous 370 and 35A being altered. Both India and the world need to accept the new normal in Kashmir. For this the narrative and diplomatic war must supplement the battle-ready formations on the border and the internal law and order machinery in the new Union Territory. Coming back to the UNHRC, let’s be fully prepared for Imran Khan’s tirade on 27th September. &nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-kashmir-the-new-battlefront-2789583">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

On August 5, by revoking the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) by Article 370, India scored a major victory against cross-border terrorism as well as separatism in the Valley.

On August 5, by revoking the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) by Article 370, India scored a major victory against cross-border terrorism as well as separatism in the Valley. Hailed by many as a constitutional coup, the move paves the way to for the full integration of J&K into the Union of India. This should have happened way back in 1947, after the signing of the instrument of accession on October 26. However, better late than never. Even if turning the former state into two union territories is unprecedented in the history of independent India, national interest as well as the good of the people of the region, is paramount. Ladakh, which is also a separate Union Territory, will now have a much better chance to protect its unique religious and cultural heritage. The fragile Himalayan ecology of one of India’s most beautiful, rugged, and inaccessible parts must be preserved by regulating the pace and quantum of both development and access to the region. What is more the overt and covert Islamisation of the largely Buddhist area will also be checked. In a few more decades, the entire state, not just the Valley, faced the very real danger of not just being alienated, but lost to India, both culturally and politically. That most Indians understood this instinctively and emotionally even if not intellectually or rationally, is evident in the overwhelming public support for the government surgical strike on Article 370. But what we might have perhaps failed fully to grasp is that though the constitutional battle has been won, the war over Kashmir is still being waged, but on other fronts. We have very carefully to monitor as well as manage the global narrative on Kashmir. This has been stacked, by and large, against India in the past. Both in the media and only marginally less so in international multilateral or bilateral fora, the United Nations (UN) being the key example of the former, as the United States is of the latter. Luckily, Pakistan has not made much headway in either so far. After getting US President Trump to offer to mediate, Pakistan’s Imran Khan had to eat humble pie after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi got Trump to retract. While US meddling, given their own troubles in Afghanistan, cannot be ruled out, India has managed to make its position loud and clear. As to the UN, it has several platforms where Pakistan is likely to mount its Kashmir offensive. The latest skirmish, at the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC), is only one instance. India came out on top. On Tuesday, Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary (East), Ministry of External Affairs, denounced Pakistan’s “state sponsored terrorism” and underscored India’s right to revoke J&K’s special status. Highlighting Pakistan’s shoddy and shameful human rights record, she sarcastically questioned our neighbour right to point fingers at us when “trampling upon them [human rights] at will in their own country.” She accused Pakistan’s of pushing a “malicious political agenda under the garb of human rights.” Projecting India as a law-abiding, sovereign power, Singh said, “These decisions were taken by our Parliament after a full debate that was televised and enjoyed widespread support. We wish to reiterate that this sovereign decision, like other legislations passed by Parliament, is entirely internal to India. No country can accept interference in its internal affairs, certainly not India.” On Wednesday, first secretary to India’s permanent mission at the UNHRC, Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan, followed up by exposing “Pakistan’s hysterical statements with false, fabricated narratives aimed to politicise and polarize this forum.” Himself from J&K, Aryan excoriated Pakistan for being “the epicentre of global terrorism,” encouraging violence by calling for jihad in J&K and elsewhere. In addition to trying to foment trouble in the Valley and mounting international pressure on India, Pakistan will also encourage its friends and proxies in foreign media houses to push its case. The leading newspapers and TV channels, not to mention national broadcasters, have often fallen for its victimhood narratives. In India, too, the last vestiges of Lutyens Delhi will also scream day in and day out that things are not normal in Kashmir. But when were they normal, we might ask them. Normalcy is only now returning to the region with the anomalous 370 and 35A being altered. Both India and the world need to accept the new normal in Kashmir. For this the narrative and diplomatic war must supplement the battle-ready formations on the border and the internal law and order machinery in the new Union Territory. Coming back to the UNHRC, let’s be fully prepared for Imran Khan’s tirade on 27th September. (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)

Kashmir: The New Battlefront

So there is a global slowdown and it is spilling into India. And the faultlines in the Indian economy could be exposed.&nbsp;

On WION Edit, we raise the question - is economy Narendra Modi government's Achilles heel?

Already, opposition parties have placed the entire blame on the government.&nbsp;

This is not the first time the economy got politicised. It has happened in India before, it happens all over the world.&nbsp;

But surely - &nbsp;this question puts the government in a tight corner? For years, India has had jobless growth. Even during the UPA regime, job creation remained a problem.&nbsp;

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Now, there are no accurate estimates to reflect the state of employment in India. But the reports of job losses are worrying.&nbsp;

The Modi government is facing the twin challenges of reviving growth as well as ensuring job creation.

Politically, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government&nbsp;has proved to be a potent force. The re-election shows that this is a government with&nbsp;enormous popular support.

But economic slowdowns can trip up governments if history has any lessons. Despite the growth fears, the government sits on a huge pile of options to tackle the economic troubles.

First, it has got a record payout from RBI. Second, the Indian economy is still resilient. Lastly, the Indian economy is relatively self-dependent.

If the first term of Narendra Modi was about bringing-in bold reforms like GST, insolvency and bankruptcy code, the second term could be about fixing the holes in the economy.

The good thing is the government has got time on its hands. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

So there is a global slowdown and it is spilling into India. And the faultlines in the Indian economy could be exposed. On WION Edit, we raise the question - is economy Narendra Modi government's Achilles heel?

So there is a global slowdown and it is spilling into India. And the faultlines in the Indian economy could be exposed. On WION Edit, we raise the question - is economy Narendra Modi government's Achilles heel? Already, opposition parties have placed the entire blame on the government. This is not the first time the economy got politicised. It has happened in India before, it happens all over the world. But surely - this question puts the government in a tight corner? For years, India has had jobless growth. Even during the UPA regime, job creation remained a problem. × Now, there are no accurate estimates to reflect the state of employment in India. But the reports of job losses are worrying. The Modi government is facing the twin challenges of reviving growth as well as ensuring job creation. Politically, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has proved to be a potent force. The re-election shows that this is a government with enormous popular support. But economic slowdowns can trip up governments if history has any lessons. Despite the growth fears, the government sits on a huge pile of options to tackle the economic troubles. First, it has got a record payout from RBI. Second, the Indian economy is still resilient. Lastly, the Indian economy is relatively self-dependent. If the first term of Narendra Modi was about bringing-in bold reforms like GST, insolvency and bankruptcy code, the second term could be about fixing the holes in the economy. The good thing is the government has got time on its hands. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Is economy Narendra Modi government's Achilles heel?

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed hope to get a positive response from India over different unresolved issues, including the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-change-in-teesta-water-sharing-agreement-s-jaishankar-244424">Teesta water-sharing</a> one, before her visit to the neighbouring country earlier in October.

'We're optimistic that the unresolved issues between the two countries will be sorted out soon. We hope we'll get positive results over the aforesaid issues before my visit to India,'&nbsp;Hasina told the parliament on Wednesday.

The prime minister is scheduled to visit India on October 3-6, to attend the India Economic Summit of the World Economic Forum scheduled to be held in New Delhi on October 3-4 with the theme 'Innovating for India; Strengthening South Asia, Impacting the World', Dhaka Tribune reported.

Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi will also be holding a bilateral meeting on October 5.

Hasina also said that she will talk to Modi over the water sharing issues between the two countries, including Teesta, during her visit to India.

Noting that Bangladesh has very healthy ties with India, she said new doors have opened in newer areas of mutual cooperation and development.

Hasina said Bangladesh and India have already signed agreements on security, trade, power, energy, communications, development assistance, environment, education, infrastructure development, culture, and health.

Besides, cooperation has enhanced on different other issues, including the blue economy, the peaceful use of nuclear energy, aerospace research, and cybersecurity, she added.

About the Teesta water-sharing deal, she said her government's diplomatic efforts are underway to sign the agreement. "The issue is being placed before the highest political levels of the two countries," she was quoted as saying.

Modi during his previous visit to Bangladesh had assured to resolve the Teesta issue with the assistance of the concerned Indian state governments.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed hope to get a positive response from India over different unresolved issues, including the Teesta water-sharing one, before her visit to the neighbouring country earlier in October.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed hope to get a positive response from India over different unresolved issues, including the Teesta water-sharing one, before her visit to the neighbouring country earlier in October. 'We're optimistic that the unresolved issues between the two countries will be sorted out soon. We hope we'll get positive results over the aforesaid issues before my visit to India,' Hasina told the parliament on Wednesday. The prime minister is scheduled to visit India on October 3-6, to attend the India Economic Summit of the World Economic Forum scheduled to be held in New Delhi on October 3-4 with the theme 'Innovating for India; Strengthening South Asia, Impacting the World', Dhaka Tribune reported. Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi will also be holding a bilateral meeting on October 5. Hasina also said that she will talk to Modi over the water sharing issues between the two countries, including Teesta, during her visit to India. Noting that Bangladesh has very healthy ties with India, she said new doors have opened in newer areas of mutual cooperation and development. Hasina said Bangladesh and India have already signed agreements on security, trade, power, energy, communications, development assistance, environment, education, infrastructure development, culture, and health. Besides, cooperation has enhanced on different other issues, including the blue economy, the peaceful use of nuclear energy, aerospace research, and cybersecurity, she added. About the Teesta water-sharing deal, she said her government's diplomatic efforts are underway to sign the agreement. "The issue is being placed before the highest political levels of the two countries," she was quoted as saying. Modi during his previous visit to Bangladesh had assured to resolve the Teesta issue with the assistance of the concerned Indian state governments.

Sheikh Hasina expects positive response from India over unresolved issues, including Teesta

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday inaugurated first of its kind cross border commercial oil pipeline between India and Nepal in South Asia.&nbsp;

The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc.

Speaking at the inauguration through video conference, PM said, "our bilateral cooperation has increased in the past few years..and India is ready to help Nepal according to country's priority."

Calling the pipeline "One of the best examples of trade and transit between India and Nepal", PM Oli said, "Implementation of various India aided projects in Nepal have gathered momentum in recent years following the understanding between me and PM Modi."

Nepal's KP Oli also said the project will enhance "interconnected and interdependence" between India and Nepal.

The idea of the pipeline was first proposed in 1996 and finalised in 2014 during PM Modi's Nepal visit. It was approved by Indian Oil at a total cost of Rs. 324 crore in September 2015 but the work was delayed following the earthquake of 2015.&nbsp;

The pipeline will replace road transportation and ensure uninterrupted supplies. The pipeline is 69 km long with a capacity of 2 million tonnes per annum. Around 32.7km of the pipeline is in Indian territory and 36.2 km in Nepal's territory.

Inda is engaged in a number of projects in Nepal. Last year Integrated Check Post in Birgunj (Nepal) built with New Delhi's assistance was inaugurated during PM Modi's visit. Both leaders also inaugurated three-storied library for Nepal Academy and Nepal-Bharat Maitri Pashupati Dharmashala in Kathmandu.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday inaugurated first of its kind cross border commercial oil pipeline between India and Nepal in South Asia.

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday inaugurated first of its kind cross border commercial oil pipeline between India and Nepal in South Asia. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc. Speaking at the inauguration through video conference, PM said, "our bilateral cooperation has increased in the past few years..and India is ready to help Nepal according to country's priority." Calling the pipeline "One of the best examples of trade and transit between India and Nepal", PM Oli said, "Implementation of various India aided projects in Nepal have gathered momentum in recent years following the understanding between me and PM Modi." Nepal's KP Oli also said the project will enhance "interconnected and interdependence" between India and Nepal. The idea of the pipeline was first proposed in 1996 and finalised in 2014 during PM Modi's Nepal visit. It was approved by Indian Oil at a total cost of Rs. 324 crore in September 2015 but the work was delayed following the earthquake of 2015. The pipeline will replace road transportation and ensure uninterrupted supplies. The pipeline is 69 km long with a capacity of 2 million tonnes per annum. Around 32.7km of the pipeline is in Indian territory and 36.2 km in Nepal's territory. Inda is engaged in a number of projects in Nepal. Last year Integrated Check Post in Birgunj (Nepal) built with New Delhi's assistance was inaugurated during PM Modi's visit. Both leaders also inaugurated three-storied library for Nepal Academy and Nepal-Bharat Maitri Pashupati Dharmashala in Kathmandu.

PM Modi and Nepalese counterpart KP Oli jointly inaugurate South Asia's first cross border pipeline

India looks forward to making an effective contribution as we take over the Conference of Parties Presidency for a two-year term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) on Monday. During his address, PM Modi also urged world to put an end to single-use plastic.

"My government has announced that India will put an end to single-use plastic in the coming years," PM Modi said adding, "I believe the time has come for even the world to say goodbye to single-use plastic."

He also announced to raise "land degradation status, from 21 million hectares to 26 million hectares between now and 2030."

"It would make you happy that India has been able to increase its tree cover. Between 2015 to 2017, India’s tree and forest cover has&nbsp;increased by 0.8 million hectares," PM Modi said.

"I would like to announce that India would raise its ambition of the total area that would be restored from its land degradation status, from 21 million hectares to 26 million hectares between now and 2030," PM Modi said.

This Conference is being held at a time when India has assumed the COP Presidency for two years.&nbsp;

UNCCD was adopted in Paris on June 17, 1994, and was ratified by 196 countries and the European Union. India ratified the UNCCD Convention in 1996.

The other two Rio Conventions that emerged as a major outcome of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit were the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).&nbsp;

Last month, during his monthly radio address to the nation, 'Mann Ki Baat', the Prime Minister had pitched for launching a "new mass movement" against single-use plastic from October 2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

He also spoke about the initiative during the Independence Day address, urging people to join the movement. 
&nbsp;

India looks forward to making an effective contribution as we take over the Conference of Parties Presidency for a two-year term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) on Monday.

India looks forward to making an effective contribution as we take over the Conference of Parties Presidency for a two-year term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said at 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) on Monday. During his address, PM Modi also urged world to put an end to single-use plastic. "My government has announced that India will put an end to single-use plastic in the coming years," PM Modi said adding, "I believe the time has come for even the world to say goodbye to single-use plastic." He also announced to raise "land degradation status, from 21 million hectares to 26 million hectares between now and 2030." "It would make you happy that India has been able to increase its tree cover. Between 2015 to 2017, India’s tree and forest cover has increased by 0.8 million hectares," PM Modi said. "I would like to announce that India would raise its ambition of the total area that would be restored from its land degradation status, from 21 million hectares to 26 million hectares between now and 2030," PM Modi said. This Conference is being held at a time when India has assumed the COP Presidency for two years. UNCCD was adopted in Paris on June 17, 1994, and was ratified by 196 countries and the European Union. India ratified the UNCCD Convention in 1996. The other two Rio Conventions that emerged as a major outcome of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit were the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Last month, during his monthly radio address to the nation, 'Mann Ki Baat', the Prime Minister had pitched for launching a "new mass movement" against single-use plastic from October 2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. He also spoke about the initiative during the Independence Day address, urging people to join the movement.

Time has come for world to say goodbye to single-use plastic: PM Modi at COP 14 address

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) being held in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh on Monday.

Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves and Union Minister Prakash Javadekar were also present at the event.

"This conference will add to the global discourse on issues relating to the environment, especially land management," the Prime Minister's office&nbsp;had tweeted on Sunday.

In another tweet, the PMO had said, "This Conference is being held at a time when India has assumed the COP Presidency for two years. India has had the honour to host the COP of all three Rio conventions on climate change, biodiversity and land."

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This Conference is being held at a time when India has assumed the COP Presidency for two years. 
 
India has had the honour to host the COP of all three Rio conventions on climate change, biodiversity and land.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1170699175182254081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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UNCCD was adopted in Paris on June 17, 1994, and was ratified by 196 countries and the European Union. India ratified the UNCCD Convention in 1996.

The other two Rio Conventions that emerged as a major outcome of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit were the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) being held in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh on Monday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) being held in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh on Monday. Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves and Union Minister Prakash Javadekar were also present at the event. "This conference will add to the global discourse on issues relating to the environment, especially land management," the Prime Minister's office had tweeted on Sunday. In another tweet, the PMO had said, "This Conference is being held at a time when India has assumed the COP Presidency for two years. India has had the honour to host the COP of all three Rio conventions on climate change, biodiversity and land." This Conference is being held at a time when India has assumed the COP Presidency for two years. India has had the honour to host the COP of all three Rio conventions on climate change, biodiversity and land. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 8, 2019 × UNCCD was adopted in Paris on June 17, 1994, and was ratified by 196 countries and the European Union. India ratified the UNCCD Convention in 1996. The other two Rio Conventions that emerged as a major outcome of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit were the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi to address COP 14 to United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for reaching out to masses through social media, continues to be the most followed Indian on Twitter with his followers crossing 50 million mark on the microblogging site.

The Prime Minister now stands tall among the world leaders on Twitter, with his handle @narendramodi a little behind that of US President Donald Trump, who has 64 million followers. Former US President Barack Obama remains on the first spot with over 108 million accounts following him.

No Indian politician is even close to Prime Minister Modi.

Even the number of followers on the official Twitter handle of Prime Minister's Office has crossed 30 million.

Modi, who is quite famous for his oratory skills, is also very active on Twitter and regularly puts out texts on everything- from his speeches at various platforms to the places he went and the people he met.

He started using the platform in 2009 when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat and his popularity grew overwhelmingly as he assumed the office of Prime Minister in 2014.

Last year, an international survey ranked Modi among the top three leaders of the world.

An annual survey by Gallup International put Prime Minister Modi at number three among the global leaders.

The respondents in the survey, which was conducted among the people across 50 countries, rated Modi ahead of China's Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, then British Prime Minister Theresa May, Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu amongst others.

The top ranking in the survey went to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, followed by French President Emmanuel Macron.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for reaching out to masses through social media, continues to be the most followed Indian on Twitter with his followers crossing 50 million mark on the microblogging site.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, known for reaching out to masses through social media, continues to be the most followed Indian on Twitter with his followers crossing 50 million mark on the microblogging site. The Prime Minister now stands tall among the world leaders on Twitter, with his handle @narendramodi a little behind that of US President Donald Trump, who has 64 million followers. Former US President Barack Obama remains on the first spot with over 108 million accounts following him. No Indian politician is even close to Prime Minister Modi. Even the number of followers on the official Twitter handle of Prime Minister's Office has crossed 30 million. Modi, who is quite famous for his oratory skills, is also very active on Twitter and regularly puts out texts on everything- from his speeches at various platforms to the places he went and the people he met. He started using the platform in 2009 when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat and his popularity grew overwhelmingly as he assumed the office of Prime Minister in 2014. Last year, an international survey ranked Modi among the top three leaders of the world. An annual survey by Gallup International put Prime Minister Modi at number three among the global leaders. The respondents in the survey, which was conducted among the people across 50 countries, rated Modi ahead of China's Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, then British Prime Minister Theresa May, Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu amongst others. The top ranking in the survey went to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, followed by French President Emmanuel Macron.

PM Narendra Modi crosses 50 million followers on Twitter

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hugging and consoling Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman K Sivan after the latter broke down following communication with the lander was lost at 2.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hugging and consoling Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman K Sivan after the latter broke down following communication with the lander was lost at 2.1 km from the lunar surface is a great gesture and morale booster, said Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) chief Dr G Satheesh Reddy. ''PM hugged and consoled ISRO Chief K Sivan after he (Sivan) broke down following Chandrayaan 2 landing: It's a great gesture by PM. It's a great morale booster for scientists who saw the last mile glitch in mission,'' said Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Chairman of DRDO. After Modi's gesture, ISRO's scientists have started working on the mission again and could locate the rover, he said. Dr G. Satheesh Reddy,Chairman of DRDO: #Chandrayaan2 is a very complex mission.This type of a complex mission can be appreciated by those people who have also taken up such missions. https://t.co/yNoObf7d15 — ANI (@ANI) September 8, 2019 × ''I think, after that gesture, ISRO scientists again started working on the mission, started looking for what happened and that’s how they could locate the rover,'' he added. Hitting back at Pakistani critics who ridiculed the Indian space mission, Reddy said ''people who haven't done anything of this class can not appreciate and probably cannot understand the complexity of this mission.'' Chandrayaan 2 is a very complex mission and this type of complex mission can be appreciated by those people who have also taken up such missions, he added.

PM hugging and consoling Sivan was a great gesture, morale booster, says DRDO chief 

With Modi 2.0 government completing 100 days at the Centre, 17 Union Ministers will reach out to the people and make them aware of the historic decisions made in the short period.

On September 9 and 10 the cabinet ministers will hold press conferences in various parts of the country including Jammu, Shimla, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Ranchi, among others.

While Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Jairam Gadkari will address the press in Mumbai, Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani will hold a press conference in Kolkata on Monday.

The other 15 Union Ministers who will reach out to the masses include Nirmala Sitaraman (Chennai), Ramvilas Paswan (Patna), Ravi Shankar Prasad (Ahmedabad), Harsimrat Kaur Badal (Chandigarh), Thawarchand Gehlot (Raipur), Arjun Munda (Ranchi), Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi (Allahabad), Pralhad Joshi (Goa), Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Jaipur), Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank'&nbsp;(Dehradun), Jitendra Singh (Jammu), Raj Kumar Singh (Hyderabad), Mansukh L. Mandaviya (Bhubaneswar), Anurag Thakur (Shimla) and Narendra Singh Tomar (Gwalior).

The leaders will carry the message of the government on matters ranging from strong nationalistic and security-related decisions like defanging of Article 370 and acquisition of the United States made Apache helicopters to people-centric decisions like pension for farmers and shopkeepers.

There would be special emphasis on spreading awareness on the triple talaq law which aims to abolish the social evil prevalent in the society.

The party would also highlight the passing of the tough UAPA anti-terror law.

The fact that Parliament enacted several laws and worked overtime during the recently concluded monsoon session would also be highlighted.

Other issues that are likely to be highlighted include the launch of Mission Fit India, the establishment of Jal Shakti Ministry and the National Medical Commission, and merger of banks.

In July, BJP working president JP Nadda had presented 50 days report card of Modi's government 2.0 and listed a number of decisions it took to improve ease of living of the citizens.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government returned to power with a massive mandate on May 23 in the general elections. It's cabinet was sworn-in on May 30.&nbsp; 
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With Modi 2.0 government completing 100 days at the Centre, 17 Union Ministers will reach out to the people and make them aware of the historic decisions made in the short period.

With Modi 2.0 government completing 100 days at the Centre, 17 Union Ministers will reach out to the people and make them aware of the historic decisions made in the short period. On September 9 and 10 the cabinet ministers will hold press conferences in various parts of the country including Jammu, Shimla, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Ranchi, among others. While Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Jairam Gadkari will address the press in Mumbai, Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani will hold a press conference in Kolkata on Monday. The other 15 Union Ministers who will reach out to the masses include Nirmala Sitaraman (Chennai), Ramvilas Paswan (Patna), Ravi Shankar Prasad (Ahmedabad), Harsimrat Kaur Badal (Chandigarh), Thawarchand Gehlot (Raipur), Arjun Munda (Ranchi), Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi (Allahabad), Pralhad Joshi (Goa), Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Jaipur), Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' (Dehradun), Jitendra Singh (Jammu), Raj Kumar Singh (Hyderabad), Mansukh L. Mandaviya (Bhubaneswar), Anurag Thakur (Shimla) and Narendra Singh Tomar (Gwalior). The leaders will carry the message of the government on matters ranging from strong nationalistic and security-related decisions like defanging of Article 370 and acquisition of the United States made Apache helicopters to people-centric decisions like pension for farmers and shopkeepers. There would be special emphasis on spreading awareness on the triple talaq law which aims to abolish the social evil prevalent in the society. The party would also highlight the passing of the tough UAPA anti-terror law. The fact that Parliament enacted several laws and worked overtime during the recently concluded monsoon session would also be highlighted. Other issues that are likely to be highlighted include the launch of Mission Fit India, the establishment of Jal Shakti Ministry and the National Medical Commission, and merger of banks. In July, BJP working president JP Nadda had presented 50 days report card of Modi's government 2.0 and listed a number of decisions it took to improve ease of living of the citizens. Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government returned to power with a massive mandate on May 23 in the general elections. It's cabinet was sworn-in on May 30.

PM Modi's ministers to present 100-day report card

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman likely to unveil measures to boost economic growth: Sources