Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited veteran lawyer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jethmalanis-demise-marks-the-end-of-an-era-rajya-sabha-deputy-chairman-248476">Ram Jethmalani</a>'s residence in Delhi to pay his last respect to him on Sunday.

Jethmalani was a veteran lawyer and former Union Minister who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/veteran-lawyer-ram-jethmalani-passes-at-95-248351">passed away at age 95</a> in Delhi on Sunday morning.

Earlier in the day, Narendra Modi tweeted, "In the passing away of Ram Jethmalani Ji, India has lost an exceptional lawyer and iconic public figure who made rich contributions both in the court and parliament. He was witty, courageous and never shied away from boldly expressing himself on any subject."

"One of the best aspects of Ram Jethmalani Ji was the ability to speak his mind. And, he did so without any fear. During the dark days of the Emergency, his fortitude and fight for public liberties will be remembered. Helping the needy was an integral part of his persona," the tweet added.&nbsp;

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I consider myself fortunate to have got numerous opportunities to interact with Shri Ram Jethmalani Ji. In these sad moments, my condolences to his family, friends and many admirers. He may not be here but his pioneering work will live on! Om Shanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1170552268246011904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Jethmalani was one of the highest-paid lawyers in the Supreme Court and was considered as a doyen of criminal law.

Jethmalani became a member of Rajya Sabha in 1988 and later served as the law minister and urban development minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet. He was also appointed as the Chairman of Bar Council of India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited veteran lawyer Ram Jethmalani's residence in Delhi to pay his last respect to him on Sunday. Jethmalani was a veteran lawyer and former Union Minister who passed away at age 95 in Delhi on Sunday morning.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited veteran lawyer Ram Jethmalani's residence in Delhi to pay his last respect to him on Sunday. Jethmalani was a veteran lawyer and former Union Minister who passed away at age 95 in Delhi on Sunday morning. Earlier in the day, Narendra Modi tweeted, "In the passing away of Ram Jethmalani Ji, India has lost an exceptional lawyer and iconic public figure who made rich contributions both in the court and parliament. He was witty, courageous and never shied away from boldly expressing himself on any subject." "One of the best aspects of Ram Jethmalani Ji was the ability to speak his mind. And, he did so without any fear. During the dark days of the Emergency, his fortitude and fight for public liberties will be remembered. Helping the needy was an integral part of his persona," the tweet added. I consider myself fortunate to have got numerous opportunities to interact with Shri Ram Jethmalani Ji. In these sad moments, my condolences to his family, friends and many admirers. He may not be here but his pioneering work will live on! Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 8, 2019 × Jethmalani was one of the highest-paid lawyers in the Supreme Court and was considered as a doyen of criminal law. Jethmalani became a member of Rajya Sabha in 1988 and later served as the law minister and urban development minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet. He was also appointed as the Chairman of Bar Council of India.

PM Narendra Modi visits Ram Jethmalani's residence to pay his last respect

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that past 100 days of his government were defined by change, determination, improvement, and good intention.

While addressing a mega rally in Rohtak marking the culmination of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's Jan Ashirwad Yatra, Prime Minister Modi thanked the public for electing BJP on all 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Talking about the first 100 days of his second term, Narendra Modi said that the days were of 'change, determination, improvement and good intention'.

"In the past 100 days, all the big decisions we took, their inspiration was derived from 130 crore Indians. It is only through your trust that government was able to take decisions ranging decisions in agriculture to national security," Modi said.

"Be it the matter of Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh or of the worsening water crisis, 130 crore citizens of India have started looking for new solutions to the problems," he added,

Prime Minister Modi also thanked all political parties for their role in the passage of the highest number of bills ever passed in a parliament session.

"The amount of bills passed in the recent parliament session has been unprecedented. Till late night, MPs debated and discussed new laws. Even though this stage is of BJP but I would like to thank all the political parties," he said.

Narendra Modi also touched upon various initiatives coined by the government in the agriculture sector and announced that in addition to a pension scheme for farmers, the government will soon introduce a pension scheme for medium and small businessmen as well.

Talking about the Jan Ashirwad rally, Prime Minister Modi again thanked the public of Haryana.

"Whatever I have asked from Haryana, I have always got more in return and I thank you with all my heart," Modi said.

Thanking people for turning out in huge number, the Prime Minister said, "The Jan Ashirwad Yatra may be ending at Rohtak today but it is clear that which party will be getting the blessing of Haryana's public," Modi.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar embarked on 'Jan Ashirwad Yatra' on August 18 covering all the 90 assembly constituencies of Haryana ahead of the upcoming assembly polls. (ANI

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that past 100 days of his government were defined by change, determination, improvement, and good intention. While addressing a mega rally in Rohtak marking the culmination of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's Jan Ashirwad Yatra, Prime Minister Modi thanked the public for electing BJP on all 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that past 100 days of his government were defined by change, determination, improvement, and good intention. While addressing a mega rally in Rohtak marking the culmination of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's Jan Ashirwad Yatra, Prime Minister Modi thanked the public for electing BJP on all 10 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Talking about the first 100 days of his second term, Narendra Modi said that the days were of 'change, determination, improvement and good intention'. "In the past 100 days, all the big decisions we took, their inspiration was derived from 130 crore Indians. It is only through your trust that government was able to take decisions ranging decisions in agriculture to national security," Modi said. "Be it the matter of Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh or of the worsening water crisis, 130 crore citizens of India have started looking for new solutions to the problems," he added, Prime Minister Modi also thanked all political parties for their role in the passage of the highest number of bills ever passed in a parliament session. "The amount of bills passed in the recent parliament session has been unprecedented. Till late night, MPs debated and discussed new laws. Even though this stage is of BJP but I would like to thank all the political parties," he said. Narendra Modi also touched upon various initiatives coined by the government in the agriculture sector and announced that in addition to a pension scheme for farmers, the government will soon introduce a pension scheme for medium and small businessmen as well. Talking about the Jan Ashirwad rally, Prime Minister Modi again thanked the public of Haryana. "Whatever I have asked from Haryana, I have always got more in return and I thank you with all my heart," Modi said. Thanking people for turning out in huge number, the Prime Minister said, "The Jan Ashirwad Yatra may be ending at Rohtak today but it is clear that which party will be getting the blessing of Haryana's public," Modi. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar embarked on 'Jan Ashirwad Yatra' on August 18 covering all the 90 assembly constituencies of Haryana ahead of the upcoming assembly polls. (ANI

Last 100 days were defined by change: PM Modi sounds poll bugle in Haryana

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that by 2023-24 the capacity of metro network in Mumbai will be as much as the local trains in the city at present.

According to a press release by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), informing citizens about the expansion plan for Mumbai Metro, the Prime Minister said,&nbsp;&nbsp;"From 11 km today, the metro network of the city will increase to 325 km by 2023-24. The capacity of the metro will become as much as that of the volume of people carried by Mumbai local today. The coaches which run on the metro lines will also be manufactured in India."

The press note said Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various Mumbai Metro projects, in line with the vision of 'Mumbai in Minutes'.

"The projects will provide a boost to the metro infrastructure of the city and will contribute to a safer, faster and better commute for every Mumbaikar," the press note said.

It further said, the Prime Minister stated that projects worth Rs 20,000 crore have been initiated in Mumbai today, while Rs 1.5 lakh crore have already been invested in Mumbai Metro.

Modi said that new metro lines, Metro Bhavan and new facilities at metro stations will give a new dimension to Mumbai and make life easier for Mumbaikars.

"The connection between Bandra and expressway will make life easier for professionals. With these projects, Mumbai can be reached in minutes," he said. 
The Prime Minister also stated that 10,000 engineers and 40,000 skilled and unskilled workers will get job opportunities due to the metro projects, according to the press release.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that by 2023-24 the capacity of metro network in Mumbai will be as much as the local trains in the city at present.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that by 2023-24 the capacity of metro network in Mumbai will be as much as the local trains in the city at present. According to a press release by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), informing citizens about the expansion plan for Mumbai Metro, the Prime Minister said, "From 11 km today, the metro network of the city will increase to 325 km by 2023-24. The capacity of the metro will become as much as that of the volume of people carried by Mumbai local today. The coaches which run on the metro lines will also be manufactured in India." The press note said Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various Mumbai Metro projects, in line with the vision of 'Mumbai in Minutes'. "The projects will provide a boost to the metro infrastructure of the city and will contribute to a safer, faster and better commute for every Mumbaikar," the press note said. It further said, the Prime Minister stated that projects worth Rs 20,000 crore have been initiated in Mumbai today, while Rs 1.5 lakh crore have already been invested in Mumbai Metro. Modi said that new metro lines, Metro Bhavan and new facilities at metro stations will give a new dimension to Mumbai and make life easier for Mumbaikars. "The connection between Bandra and expressway will make life easier for professionals. With these projects, Mumbai can be reached in minutes," he said. The Prime Minister also stated that 10,000 engineers and 40,000 skilled and unskilled workers will get job opportunities due to the metro projects, according to the press release.

Mumbai Metro will carry as many passengers by 2024 as by local trains now: PM Modi

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-keeps-brisk-pace-of-work-addresses-three-gatherings-on-saturday-248292">Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday urged people to avoid throwing plastic and other waste materials into the seawater while immersing the idols of the Lord Ganesha.

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lays-foundation-stone-for-three-metro-lines-in-mumbai-248239">laying the foundation stone for metro projects</a>, Prime Minister Modi said that during immersion of Lord Ganesha idols "a lot of plastic and other waste goes into the sea."

"This time we have to try that these materials which increase pollution are not immersed in water."

He also urged people of Mumbai to make the Mithi river and other water bodies plastic-free.

"In the last five years, we have made sincere efforts to improve the infrastructure of 'Amchi Mumbai'," Modi said in the presence of newly-appointed Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray.

The Prime Minister started his one-day tour by offering prayers to Lord Ganesh at Vile Parle here.

"Ganpati Bappa Morya! Today I got the privilege of worshipping at the same place in Mumbai, where Ganpati was established a hundred years ago with the inspiration of Lokmanya Tilak," he tweeted.

He also said the metro network is being expanded in the region at a cost of about Rs 1.5 lakh crore.

"Till 2014, the metro was running in a few cities only. Today the metro in 27 cities in the country has either started or is about to start," Modi said.

"Today, about 750 km of metro lines are operational across the country, out of which 400 km were started in the last five years. More than half of the metro lines were added in last five years," he added.

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.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urged people to avoid throwing plastic and other waste materials into the seawater while immersing the idols of the Lord Ganesha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urged people to avoid throwing plastic and other waste materials into the seawater while immersing the idols of the Lord Ganesha. After laying the foundation stone for metro projects, Prime Minister Modi said that during immersion of Lord Ganesha idols "a lot of plastic and other waste goes into the sea." "This time we have to try that these materials which increase pollution are not immersed in water." He also urged people of Mumbai to make the Mithi river and other water bodies plastic-free. "In the last five years, we have made sincere efforts to improve the infrastructure of 'Amchi Mumbai'," Modi said in the presence of newly-appointed Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. The Prime Minister started his one-day tour by offering prayers to Lord Ganesh at Vile Parle here. "Ganpati Bappa Morya! Today I got the privilege of worshipping at the same place in Mumbai, where Ganpati was established a hundred years ago with the inspiration of Lokmanya Tilak," he tweeted. He also said the metro network is being expanded in the region at a cost of about Rs 1.5 lakh crore. "Till 2014, the metro was running in a few cities only. Today the metro in 27 cities in the country has either started or is about to start," Modi said. "Today, about 750 km of metro lines are operational across the country, out of which 400 km were started in the last five years. More than half of the metro lines were added in last five years," he added. 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.

PM Modi urges people not to immerse plastic in sea during Ganpati immersion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday declined a sprawling sofa kept specially for him at a photo session here and instead chose to sit on a chair along with others.

In a video posted by Railways Minister Piyush Goyal, Modi is being welcomed by officials at the photo session. The Prime Minister was seen opting for the chair over the sofa.

Following this, the officials replaced the comfortable sofa with a simple chair and he took his place for the picture.

"PM Narendra Modi's simplicity was seen today as he got the special arrangement for him removed and opted to sit on a chair along with others in Russia," Goyal tweeted along with the video.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> जी की सरलता का उदाहरण आज पुनः देखने को मिला, उन्होंने रूस में अपने लिए की गई विशेष व्यवस्था को हटवा कर अन्य लोगों के साथ सामान्य कुर्सी पर बैठने की इच्छा जाहिर की। <a href="https://t.co/6Rn7eHid6N">pic.twitter.com/6Rn7eHid6N</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1169617884835803137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The video was widely shared on social media and netizens hailed Modi's gesture.

"What a lovely gesture. There are no words. See the simplicity," a Twitter user said.

"We have a humble and sober Prime Minister who is down to earth," another Twitterer said.

"Modiji's simplicity makes him the most respected n powerful leader in the world fraternity. The conviction, clarity with which he talks n conveys his message. He knows what's best 4 the nation. He's soft 4 good people but very hard 4 those who try to harm the nation. He's truly our PM," a user tweeted.

The Prime Minister was on a two-day visit to Vladivostok to attend the fifth Eastern Economic Forum and participate in the 20th India-Russia annual bilateral summit. 
He arrived back in New Delhi on early Friday morning.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday declined a sprawling sofa kept specially for him at a photo session here and instead chose to sit on a chair along with others.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday declined a sprawling sofa kept specially for him at a photo session here and instead chose to sit on a chair along with others. In a video posted by Railways Minister Piyush Goyal, Modi is being welcomed by officials at the photo session. The Prime Minister was seen opting for the chair over the sofa. Following this, the officials replaced the comfortable sofa with a simple chair and he took his place for the picture. "PM Narendra Modi's simplicity was seen today as he got the special arrangement for him removed and opted to sit on a chair along with others in Russia," Goyal tweeted along with the video. PM @NarendraModi जी की सरलता का उदाहरण आज पुनः देखने को मिला, उन्होंने रूस में अपने लिए की गई विशेष व्यवस्था को हटवा कर अन्य लोगों के साथ सामान्य कुर्सी पर बैठने की इच्छा जाहिर की। pic.twitter.com/6Rn7eHid6N — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) September 5, 2019 × The video was widely shared on social media and netizens hailed Modi's gesture. "What a lovely gesture. There are no words. See the simplicity," a Twitter user said. "We have a humble and sober Prime Minister who is down to earth," another Twitterer said. "Modiji's simplicity makes him the most respected n powerful leader in the world fraternity. The conviction, clarity with which he talks n conveys his message. He knows what's best 4 the nation. He's soft 4 good people but very hard 4 those who try to harm the nation. He's truly our PM," a user tweeted. The Prime Minister was on a two-day visit to Vladivostok to attend the fifth Eastern Economic Forum and participate in the 20th India-Russia annual bilateral summit. He arrived back in New Delhi on early Friday morning.

Vladivostok: PM Modi refuses sofa, opts for chair during photo session

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-to-day-2-of-packed-russia-visit-pm-modi-holds-talks-with-japanese-malaysian-counterparts-247669">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> continues with his Russia trip with the focus on strengthening bilateral partnership, WION's Kartikeya Sharma spoke with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak.

In an exclusive conversation, Novak described the Asia Pacific region as the global driver of the economy and&nbsp;hailed Modi-Putin talks as "very positive".

WION: What sort of energy trends are being witnessed in the Asia Pacific and other parts of the world?

Novak: The Asia Pacific region is the global driver of the economy. It is the driver for the demand of energy sources like carbons and other resources. It is also a driving force behind the investment of new technologies. Russia is ready in partnership with all other countries to invest in large scale projects. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What trends do you see between Russia and India on energy security?

Novak: India and Russia are strategic longstanding partners. Right, now we are in at a new stage of the relationship between the two countries because the leaders of the two countries have set forth new ambitious goals. Both Prime Minister Modi and President Putin are committed to promoting close relationship in the energy field which is the backbone of our interaction. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is, energy the new bulwark between India Russia relationship?

Novak: Energy is the backbone of trade, economic and investment relations between the two countries including the participation and implementation of Sakhalin 1 project. In the last couple of years, a large number of big projects have been implemented including investments of the Indian companies into the production of oil in Russia. I'm referring to one core field Tassurik field besides Rosneft which invested 12 billion dollars in the acquisition of Essar company in India. New large-scale projects have been implemented as well. India is involved in the production and marketing of gas. 
&nbsp; 
WION: India is looking forward to cooperation IN nuclear field and gas. Do you think gas production has also become one of the driving forces between THE two countries?

Novak: India is already a big consumer of Russian gas. There is joint participation with Gasprom. Last year, it supplied 1 million tons of LNG to India. This year Novatek has signed a memorandum of cooperation for the marketing of LNG with two Indian companies. We are always happy to see Indian companies participate in the development of LNG in Russia in the context of the construction of energy plants since it is the strategic goal of the Russian federation. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Can India-Russia relationship be taken to the next level now?

Novak: I'm in close contact with my colleague Dharmendra Pradhan in India. On August 29 he was in Moscow and we had an opportunity to compare the implementation of key and large-scale projects in Russia so that we can achieve goals put forward by the leaders of both countries. On the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, three documents were signed between the ministries of both the countries. The first document to be signed was a programme of cooperation in the area of oil and gas. The second one was on the promotion of gas motor fuel in India and the third was the cooperation of two countries in the power sector. These are mainstream directions in which we are going to move forward. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Do you feel that chemistry between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin has redefined Russia-India relationship?

Novak: Indeed, the relations between the two countries have reached high-level thanks to the personal touch established by Prime Minister Modi and President Putin. In this economic forum, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is our main guest. On Wednesday, both the leaders had a productive meeting. It was very positive. It will give new impetus to the promotion of bilateral ties between both the countries.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues with his Russia trip with the focus on strengthening bilateral partnership, WION's Kartikeya Sharma spoke with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues with his Russia trip with the focus on strengthening bilateral partnership, WION's Kartikeya Sharma spoke with Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak. In an exclusive conversation, Novak described the Asia Pacific region as the global driver of the economy and hailed Modi-Putin talks as "very positive". WION: What sort of energy trends are being witnessed in the Asia Pacific and other parts of the world? Novak: The Asia Pacific region is the global driver of the economy. It is the driver for the demand of energy sources like carbons and other resources. It is also a driving force behind the investment of new technologies. Russia is ready in partnership with all other countries to invest in large scale projects. WION: What trends do you see between Russia and India on energy security? Novak: India and Russia are strategic longstanding partners. Right, now we are in at a new stage of the relationship between the two countries because the leaders of the two countries have set forth new ambitious goals. Both Prime Minister Modi and President Putin are committed to promoting close relationship in the energy field which is the backbone of our interaction. WION: Is, energy the new bulwark between India Russia relationship? Novak: Energy is the backbone of trade, economic and investment relations between the two countries including the participation and implementation of Sakhalin 1 project. In the last couple of years, a large number of big projects have been implemented including investments of the Indian companies into the production of oil in Russia. I'm referring to one core field Tassurik field besides Rosneft which invested 12 billion dollars in the acquisition of Essar company in India. New large-scale projects have been implemented as well. India is involved in the production and marketing of gas. WION: India is looking forward to cooperation IN nuclear field and gas. Do you think gas production has also become one of the driving forces between THE two countries? Novak: India is already a big consumer of Russian gas. There is joint participation with Gasprom. Last year, it supplied 1 million tons of LNG to India. This year Novatek has signed a memorandum of cooperation for the marketing of LNG with two Indian companies. We are always happy to see Indian companies participate in the development of LNG in Russia in the context of the construction of energy plants since it is the strategic goal of the Russian federation. WION: Can India-Russia relationship be taken to the next level now? Novak: I'm in close contact with my colleague Dharmendra Pradhan in India. On August 29 he was in Moscow and we had an opportunity to compare the implementation of key and large-scale projects in Russia so that we can achieve goals put forward by the leaders of both countries. On the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, three documents were signed between the ministries of both the countries. The first document to be signed was a programme of cooperation in the area of oil and gas. The second one was on the promotion of gas motor fuel in India and the third was the cooperation of two countries in the power sector. These are mainstream directions in which we are going to move forward. WION: Do you feel that chemistry between Prime Minister Modi and President Putin has redefined Russia-India relationship? Novak: Indeed, the relations between the two countries have reached high-level thanks to the personal touch established by Prime Minister Modi and President Putin. In this economic forum, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is our main guest. On Wednesday, both the leaders had a productive meeting. It was very positive. It will give new impetus to the promotion of bilateral ties between both the countries.

'Energy cooperation is backbone of Indo-Russian relationship,' Russian Energy Minister tells WION 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar.

The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "President of Mongolia spoke of the success India is having in mitigating the pollution due to stubble burning of wheat in the winter months."

According to Indian Council of Agricultural Research, there have been 41% decline in burning of crop stubble in 2018 as compared to 2016 in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCR region due to central government measures.

Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be visiting India later this month. During his tour, Battulga will visit Delhi, Bodh Gaya and Bengaluru. India is helping the landlocked country build an oil refinery through a line of credit announced during PM Modi's visit to the country.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;

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 in June 2018 and former minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju in July 2018

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar. The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "President of Mongolia spoke of the success India is having in mitigating the pollution due to stubble burning of wheat in the winter months." According to Indian Council of Agricultural Research, there have been 41% decline in burning of crop stubble in 2018 as compared to 2016 in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCR region due to central government measures. Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be visiting India later this month. During his tour, Battulga will visit Delhi, Bodh Gaya and Bengaluru. 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 in June 2018 and former minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju in July 2018

On sidelines of EEF, PM Modi meets Mongolian President; offers help on mitigating smog

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-an-aim-to-attract-business-investment-opportunities-pm-modi-to-embark-on-russia-visit-tomorrow-247344">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday met Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders left for a visit to&nbsp;Zvezda ship-building complex.

PM Modi arrived in Russia's Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok on Wednesday to participate in the 20th India-Russia annual summit and the fifth meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF).

PM Modi received a guard of honour at the Vladivostok International Airport in the presence of Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov.

During the three-day visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in which the two leaders will discuss bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest.

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Vladivostok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for Zvezda ship-building complex along with Russian President Vladimir Putin. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/02Dqbjzo0r">pic.twitter.com/02Dqbjzo0r</a>
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Following this, the two sides will sign agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors.

In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Russia, the prime minister said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries should cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space.&nbsp;

The prime minister was welcomed by the Indian diaspora at Russia's Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) in Vladivostok on Wednesday.

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders left for a visit to Zvezda ship-building complex. PM Modi arrived in Russia's Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok on Wednesday to participate in the 20th India-Russia annual summit and the fifth meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders left for a visit to Zvezda ship-building complex. PM Modi arrived in Russia's Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok on Wednesday to participate in the 20th India-Russia annual summit and the fifth meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF). PM Modi received a guard of honour at the Vladivostok International Airport in the presence of Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov. During the three-day visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in which the two leaders will discuss bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. Vladivostok: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for Zvezda ship-building complex along with Russian President Vladimir Putin. #Russia pic.twitter.com/02Dqbjzo0r — ANI (@ANI) September 4, 2019 × Following this, the two sides will sign agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors. In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Russia, the prime minister said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries should cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space. The prime minister was welcomed by the Indian diaspora at Russia's Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) in Vladivostok on Wednesday.

PM Modi meets Russian President Vladimir Putin, departs for Zvezda ship-building complex

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-russia-on-three-day-visit-247476">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday said that India and Russia need to take advantage of the low production cost in India to produce military equipment under joint venture framework at cheaper rates for the third-world nations.

"Today, provided that technologies are transferred, the production of military equipment can be cheap in India. And we will be able to supply these weapons to third countries at very low prices. India and Russia need to take advantage of this opportunity," Modi said in an interview to TASS.

The Prime Minister said that Indo-Russian partnership has extended beyond the framework of military and technical cooperation, as manifested in the help extended by Moscow to train Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan project.

"Information technologies are developing well in India and we are making success in the space sphere. Now, as we are cultivating the Gaganyaan project ("Sky Vehicle" - India's first manned spacecraft), Russia will help us train our astronauts. This cooperation is not limited to just military and technical and related fields. It goes beyond this framework," the Indian premier said.

Modi expressed hope that his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum will give a new impetus to bilateral ties between the two countries.

"I am confident that this visit will give a new vector, new energy and a new impetus to the relations between our countries," he said.

India and Russia are expected to sign numerous agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors at the 20th Annual Summit between the two countries.

In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Russia, Modi had said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space.

The Prime Minister arrived in Russia`s Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok earlier today.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India and Russia need to take advantage of the low production cost in India to produce military equipment under joint venture framework at cheaper rates for the third-world nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India and Russia need to take advantage of the low production cost in India to produce military equipment under joint venture framework at cheaper rates for the third-world nations. "Today, provided that technologies are transferred, the production of military equipment can be cheap in India. And we will be able to supply these weapons to third countries at very low prices. India and Russia need to take advantage of this opportunity," Modi said in an interview to TASS. The Prime Minister said that Indo-Russian partnership has extended beyond the framework of military and technical cooperation, as manifested in the help extended by Moscow to train Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan project. "Information technologies are developing well in India and we are making success in the space sphere. Now, as we are cultivating the Gaganyaan project ("Sky Vehicle" - India's first manned spacecraft), Russia will help us train our astronauts. This cooperation is not limited to just military and technical and related fields. It goes beyond this framework," the Indian premier said. Modi expressed hope that his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum will give a new impetus to bilateral ties between the two countries. "I am confident that this visit will give a new vector, new energy and a new impetus to the relations between our countries," he said. India and Russia are expected to sign numerous agreements in the fields of defence, trade, investments, industrial cooperation, energy and connectivity corridors at the 20th Annual Summit between the two countries. In his departure statement ahead of his visit to Russia, Modi had said that strong bilateral partnership is complemented by a desire to promote a multi-polar world and the two countries cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space. The Prime Minister arrived in Russia`s Far-Eastern city of Vladivostok earlier today.

PM Modi bats for India-Russia collaboration to produce low cost military equipment

India is likely to miss its fiscal deficit target for the current financial year, despite receiving an additional dividend from the the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), five government officials and advisers said, as tax collections have sunk amid a sharp slowdown.

India is likely to miss its fiscal deficit target for the current financial year, despite receiving an additional dividend from the the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), five government officials and advisers said, as tax collections have sunk amid a sharp slowdown. With economic growth falling to a six-year low of 5% in the April-June quarter, the sources said the government could toward the end of 2019 be forced to raise the fiscal deficit target to 3.5% of GDP from 3.3%, amid pressure for additional stimulus measures. The officials asked not to be identified as they have not been authorized to discuss the matter with media. A Finance Ministry spokesman did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Tax collections could fall by as much as 1 trillion rupees ($14 billion), or 4% of $344 billion annual target, two of the officials said, noting that sharp shortfalls are expected both in goods and services tax (GST) and income tax collections. "Overshooting the fiscal deficit target is inevitable this year as the economic slowdown has hit government revenue," a senior adviser said, adding the deficit would rise unless the government resorts to hefty spending cuts. Separately, a finance ministry official said plans to sell minority stakes in some state-run entities including electricity producer NTPC, state insurer General Insurance Corp and construction finance company HUDCO could be deferred, as market sentiment has weakened. Two government advisers said they have also urged the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government to defer the fiscal target to tackle the economic slowdown and outline stimulus steps to help the hard hit sectors such as autos and textiles. Downward revisions Private economists have revised growth forecasts to as low as 5.8% for 2019/20, one percentage point lower than the prior year, saying the slowdown could persist for two or three years while much needed cyclical as well as structural reforms are put in place. The flat manufacturing sector growth of 0.6% during the April-June period, and contraction in the auto sector by nearly 30% in July, has hit GST and corporate tax collections, while consumer spending cuts amid job losses have dented revenue collections. So far, the government has resisted pressure to announce a big bang stimulus package while nudging the RBI to cut its benchmark repo rate, which is already down 110 basis points since February. Another government adviser said despite receiving a bonanza of around $8 billion in extra dividends from the RBI, the fiscal deficit would rise as nominal GDP growth has fallen well below the budgeted estimate for the fiscal year. Policy advisers fear that the government's recently outlined plan to merge 10 state-run banks into four mega banks this year, could also prove to be a distraction for bankers, reducing their focus on credit growth, delaying recoveries on bad loans, and in turn impacting their profits and their dividend payouts to the government. In 2018/19, government revenue receipts fell 11% against the budgeted target, and the government resorted to spending cuts of 1.46 trillion rupees ($20.42 billion), and the deficit rose 3.4% of GDP against initial target of 3.3%.

India likely to miss fiscal deficit target amid pressure for more stimulus: Report

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to Vladivostok on September 4-5 to attend the meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum as the chief guest.

The visit will provide an opportunity for PM Modi and President Vladimir Putin to hold the 20th annual bilateral summit at a time when the international political system has become unpredictable due to several factors, including the ongoing trade war between the US and China and the turbulent ties between Moscow and Washington.&nbsp;

Undoubtedly, Russia has been a time-tested friend of India, with the two sides having transformed their relationship into a strategic partnership.&nbsp;

Yet, in the past few years, the relationship between the two has seen some testing moments. The expanding India-US engagement, the strengthening Russia-China cooperation and also Moscow’s move to engage with Pakistan, have all proved to be hiccups.&nbsp;

However, before this relationship could further roll down the path, India and Russia began to take calibrated steps to address each other’s concerns in order to sustain and boost their time-tested engagement. &nbsp;The first step in this direction was the conclusion of the contract for the Indian purchase of Russian S-400 air defence missile system during Modi’s visit to Russia last year, sending a clear message about the importance that New Delhi accords to Moscow. &nbsp; On the other hand, by extending his full support to India on the abrogation of Article 370, President Putin has indicated Russia’s commitment to protecting India’s interests.&nbsp;

At the same time, in the fast-changing geostrategic and economic environment of the Indo-Pacific, cooperation across a wide spectrum of areas between India and Russia has become all the more compelling, as the two sides wish to see the emergence of a multi-polar order in the region.

Though India welcomed President Donald Trump’s concept of ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’, Modi in Singapore in 2018 made it very clear that the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) is not an exclusive club of the four countries, keeping the door open for others to join it.&nbsp;

For India, China’s assertive posturing against it on the border, Beijing efforts to strengthen its foothold in South Asia and the Indian Ocean and bolstering China-Pakistan ties are other factors to advance cooperation with Russia.&nbsp;

While it is true that the US factor has in recent times cemented the China-Russia bond, Moscow is also closely watching Beijing’s increasing clout in the region and beyond. Consequently, Russia sees India as a natural friend in ensuring that China does not emerge as another hegemon in the Eurasian region. Moscow is also concerned about Beijing’s rising influence in Central Asia. India and Russia are expected to sign a defence logistics pact during Modi’s visit, which will enable the navies of the two countries to access each other’s ports and exclusive economic zones, among other facilities.

While the two sides share strong strategic and military interests, the economic dimension of the relationship is equally important. Bilateral trade between the two was recorded at $7.71 billion in 2016 and the two sides have a long way to go to realise the full potential in this area. Delhi and Moscow have set a target of $30 billion in bilateral trade by 2025.&nbsp;

In this connection, the Russian Far East Region, including Vladivostok, could prove to be instrumental in boosting economic ties, since this area is underdeveloped, but is blessed with huge natural resources.&nbsp;

This is why India and Russia are considering the possibility of a sea route between Chennai and Vladivostok. A delegation led by Minister of Railways and Commerce, Piyush Goyal, recently visited Vladivostok to explore business opportunities.&nbsp;

Modi and Putin are expected to discuss a proposal to establish a free trade zone between India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), a five-nation grouping, comprising Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia and Belarus, formed in 2015 to create conditions for stable economic development of the member states. While India and Russia are members of the BRICS and SCO, Moscow’s support is very vital for India in the UN Security Council and other international organisations.&nbsp;

 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pm-modi-s-russia-visit-crucial-in-unpredictable-global-times-2787277">original article</a>) 
 
(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 on a two-day visit to Vladivostok on September 4-5 to attend the meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum as the chief guest. The visit will provide an opportunity for PM Modi and President Vladimir Putin to hold the 20th annual bilateral summit at a time when the international political system has become unpredictable due to several factors, including the ongoing trade war between the US and China and the turbulent ties between Moscow and Washington.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to Vladivostok on September 4-5 to attend the meeting of the Eastern Economic Forum as the chief guest. The visit will provide an opportunity for PM Modi and President Vladimir Putin to hold the 20th annual bilateral summit at a time when the international political system has become unpredictable due to several factors, including the ongoing trade war between the US and China and the turbulent ties between Moscow and Washington. Undoubtedly, Russia has been a time-tested friend of India, with the two sides having transformed their relationship into a strategic partnership. Yet, in the past few years, the relationship between the two has seen some testing moments. The expanding India-US engagement, the strengthening Russia-China cooperation and also Moscow’s move to engage with Pakistan, have all proved to be hiccups. However, before this relationship could further roll down the path, India and Russia began to take calibrated steps to address each other’s concerns in order to sustain and boost their time-tested engagement. The first step in this direction was the conclusion of the contract for the Indian purchase of Russian S-400 air defence missile system during Modi’s visit to Russia last year, sending a clear message about the importance that New Delhi accords to Moscow. On the other hand, by extending his full support to India on the abrogation of Article 370, President Putin has indicated Russia’s commitment to protecting India’s interests. At the same time, in the fast-changing geostrategic and economic environment of the Indo-Pacific, cooperation across a wide spectrum of areas between India and Russia has become all the more compelling, as the two sides wish to see the emergence of a multi-polar order in the region. Though India welcomed President Donald Trump’s concept of ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’, Modi in Singapore in 2018 made it very clear that the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) is not an exclusive club of the four countries, keeping the door open for others to join it. For India, China’s assertive posturing against it on the border, Beijing efforts to strengthen its foothold in South Asia and the Indian Ocean and bolstering China-Pakistan ties are other factors to advance cooperation with Russia. While it is true that the US factor has in recent times cemented the China-Russia bond, Moscow is also closely watching Beijing’s increasing clout in the region and beyond. Consequently, Russia sees India as a natural friend in ensuring that China does not emerge as another hegemon in the Eurasian region. Moscow is also concerned about Beijing’s rising influence in Central Asia. India and Russia are expected to sign a defence logistics pact during Modi’s visit, which will enable the navies of the two countries to access each other’s ports and exclusive economic zones, among other facilities. While the two sides share strong strategic and military interests, the economic dimension of the relationship is equally important. Bilateral trade between the two was recorded at $7.71 billion in 2016 and the two sides have a long way to go to realise the full potential in this area. Delhi and Moscow have set a target of $30 billion in bilateral trade by 2025. In this connection, the Russian Far East Region, including Vladivostok, could prove to be instrumental in boosting economic ties, since this area is underdeveloped, but is blessed with huge natural resources. This is why India and Russia are considering the possibility of a sea route between Chennai and Vladivostok. A delegation led by Minister of Railways and Commerce, Piyush Goyal, recently visited Vladivostok to explore business opportunities. Modi and Putin are expected to discuss a proposal to establish a free trade zone between India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), a five-nation grouping, comprising Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia and Belarus, formed in 2015 to create conditions for stable economic development of the member states. While India and Russia are members of the BRICS and SCO, Moscow’s support is very vital for India in the UN Security Council and other international organisations. (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)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Russia visit crucial in unpredictable global times

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday said that his country stands shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terror while answering British MPs question on the developments of from the G7 summit that took place last month in France.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday said that his country stands shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terror while answering British MPs question on the developments of from the G7 summit that took place last month in France. Johnson met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the meet. He said,"I indeed have an extremely good conversation with PM Modi and we agreed to strengthen our cooperation not just on the security side where clearly UK and India stand shoulder to shoulder in the fight against terror but also on military cooperation in the Asia Pacific region where we share much interest and of course in free trade as well" Both leaders had a phone conversation in August during which PM Modi raised the violence by Pakistani diaspora, along with Khalistanis in front of the Indian mission in London on Indian Independence day. In his response, the British PM assuring the safety of the mission. The British Parliament also discussed Kashmir with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab reiterating that it is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. Raab said, "dispute over Kashmir between Pakistan and India is for them to resolve" UK Foreign Minister Dominic Raab spoke to EAM S Jaishankar on August 7 during which he raised concerns about the situation in Kashmir. Calling violence in front of Indian mission by Pakistani groups "deplorable" Raab said there is a need to "reduce tension" and allow proper dialogue between India and Pakistan.

Boris Johnson says India, UK stand shoulder to shoulder in fight against terror 

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi to embark on a two-day visit to Russia's Vladivostok tomorrow, India is looking forward to attract more business and investment opportunities.

Modi with this visit aims to strengthen beneficial cooperation between India and Russia.

"The objective of my visit is two-fold- to participate as the Chief Guest at the 5th Eastern Economic Forum at the invitation of President of the Russian Federation Mr Vladimir Putin and to hold the 20th India-Russia Annual Summit with him," the Prime Minister said in a departure statement prior to his visit to Vladivostok.

"The Forum focuses on the development of business and investment opportunities in the Russian Far East Region, and presents enormous potential for developing close and mutually beneficial cooperation between India and Russia in this region," the statement read.

Notably, Modi will be the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Russian Far East Region, Vladivostok.

"Our two countries enjoy excellent relations, based on the strong foundation of our special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both countries cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space. We have robust and growing trade and investment relations," Modi said.

"I look forward to discussing with my friend President Putin the entire gamut of our bilateral partnership as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. I also look forward to meeting other global leaders attending the Eastern Economic Forum, and interacting with Indian Industry and business representatives participating in it," the Prime Minister added.

Divulging a few pointers from his itinerary in Russia, Modi said that he would be paying a visit to the Zvezda shipbuilding complex that would provide a great opportunity to learn about Russia's exemplary capabilities in the shipbuilding sector as well as explore possibilities of cooperation in this area.

As a part of efforts to boost cultural cooperation, the Prime Minister said that a special stamp to commemorate Gandhi Ji's 150th Jayanti would be released during his trip.

"An innovative App to popularise Yoga would also be inaugurated. I hope more Russian sisters and brothers make Yoga an integral part of their routine," he tweeted.

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As a part of efforts to boost cultural cooperation, a special stamp to commemorate Gandhi Ji’s 150th Jayanti would be released. An innovative App to popularise Yoga would also be inaugurated. I hope more Russian sisters and brothers make Yoga an integral part of their routine.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1168791294560391170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the Russian Embassy in New Delhi said that India will have its own pavilion called the 'India Lounge' at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi to embark on a two-day visit to Russia's Vladivostok tomorrow, India is looking forward to attract more business and investment opportunities.

With Prime Minister Narendra Modi to embark on a two-day visit to Russia's Vladivostok tomorrow, India is looking forward to attract more business and investment opportunities. Modi with this visit aims to strengthen beneficial cooperation between India and Russia. "The objective of my visit is two-fold- to participate as the Chief Guest at the 5th Eastern Economic Forum at the invitation of President of the Russian Federation Mr Vladimir Putin and to hold the 20th India-Russia Annual Summit with him," the Prime Minister said in a departure statement prior to his visit to Vladivostok. "The Forum focuses on the development of business and investment opportunities in the Russian Far East Region, and presents enormous potential for developing close and mutually beneficial cooperation between India and Russia in this region," the statement read. Notably, Modi will be the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Russian Far East Region, Vladivostok. "Our two countries enjoy excellent relations, based on the strong foundation of our special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. Both countries cooperate extensively in the strategic fields of defence, civil nuclear energy and peaceful uses of space. We have robust and growing trade and investment relations," Modi said. "I look forward to discussing with my friend President Putin the entire gamut of our bilateral partnership as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. I also look forward to meeting other global leaders attending the Eastern Economic Forum, and interacting with Indian Industry and business representatives participating in it," the Prime Minister added. Divulging a few pointers from his itinerary in Russia, Modi said that he would be paying a visit to the Zvezda shipbuilding complex that would provide a great opportunity to learn about Russia's exemplary capabilities in the shipbuilding sector as well as explore possibilities of cooperation in this area. As a part of efforts to boost cultural cooperation, the Prime Minister said that a special stamp to commemorate Gandhi Ji's 150th Jayanti would be released during his trip. "An innovative App to popularise Yoga would also be inaugurated. I hope more Russian sisters and brothers make Yoga an integral part of their routine," he tweeted. As a part of efforts to boost cultural cooperation, a special stamp to commemorate Gandhi Ji’s 150th Jayanti would be released. An innovative App to popularise Yoga would also be inaugurated. I hope more Russian sisters and brothers make Yoga an integral part of their routine. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 3, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Russian Embassy in New Delhi said that India will have its own pavilion called the 'India Lounge' at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok.

With an aim to attract business, investment opportunities, PM Modi to embark on Russia visit Wednesday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be undertaking a two-day visit to Russia from September 4 during which he will take part in the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) meeting and will also hold a bilateral summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Talking to reporters about the visit, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said that two countries have a "special relationship" and the Prime Minister has emphasised on broadening relations with Russia beyond civil nuclear energy and defence to other areas of the economy.

He said oil and gas were among major areas of interest for India and one of the objectives did not have a dependence on any one country or region for imports.

Gokhale said Modi's visit to Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum meeting as one of the chief guests was a signal of the importance that India attaches to the Russian Far East, an area about which India has had few links in the past.

He said India was also looking at the possibility of manpower exports.

"We are exploring the possibility of sending people with some skills in areas wherever there is manpower shortage. That is not limited to just Far East of Russia. This is an effort we are making in a number of countries. This is one area where we feel there is good potential," he said.

Gokhale said the proposal was at an early stage and there has been an encouraging response from Russia.

Noting that most of Russian Far East are either minerals sector or agricultural sector, he said, "We are not yet at the stage of implementing it immediately."

"We will proceed to explore it once the visit is over. It is important for us and we will give it a priority to this," he said.

Answering a query about the proposal to build a shipping link between Chennai and Vladivostok, he said there will be no immediate announcement of a shipping service between the two cities.

"There is a recognition that alternative route to Europe through the northern route is now a possibility and we should look at in terms of economic benefits it might bring us with the northeast of Asia and beyond," he said, adding that a lot of oil and gas finds were in the region.

"It is the start of a process. It will take a while," he said.

Gokhale said Modi will arrive at Vladivostok on September 4 morning and depart on September 5 evening.

Answering a query, he said Modi and Putin will discuss defence ties between the two countries but no announcements were expected.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be undertaking a two-day visit to Russia from September 4 during which he will take part in the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) meeting and will also hold a bilateral summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be undertaking a two-day visit to Russia from September 4 during which he will take part in the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) meeting and will also hold a bilateral summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Talking to reporters about the visit, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said that two countries have a "special relationship" and the Prime Minister has emphasised on broadening relations with Russia beyond civil nuclear energy and defence to other areas of the economy. He said oil and gas were among major areas of interest for India and one of the objectives did not have a dependence on any one country or region for imports. Gokhale said Modi's visit to Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum meeting as one of the chief guests was a signal of the importance that India attaches to the Russian Far East, an area about which India has had few links in the past. He said India was also looking at the possibility of manpower exports. "We are exploring the possibility of sending people with some skills in areas wherever there is manpower shortage. That is not limited to just Far East of Russia. This is an effort we are making in a number of countries. This is one area where we feel there is good potential," he said. Gokhale said the proposal was at an early stage and there has been an encouraging response from Russia. Noting that most of Russian Far East are either minerals sector or agricultural sector, he said, "We are not yet at the stage of implementing it immediately." "We will proceed to explore it once the visit is over. It is important for us and we will give it a priority to this," he said. Answering a query about the proposal to build a shipping link between Chennai and Vladivostok, he said there will be no immediate announcement of a shipping service between the two cities. "There is a recognition that alternative route to Europe through the northern route is now a possibility and we should look at in terms of economic benefits it might bring us with the northeast of Asia and beyond," he said, adding that a lot of oil and gas finds were in the region. "It is the start of a process. It will take a while," he said. Gokhale said Modi will arrive at Vladivostok on September 4 morning and depart on September 5 evening. Answering a query, he said Modi and Putin will discuss defence ties between the two countries but no announcements were expected.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Russia visit to strengthen economic ties

Flagging off development schemes worth over Rs 290 crore, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-slams-rahul-gandhi-for-objecting-to-article-370-abrogation-246996">Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday</a> said that Silvassa has been neglected long enough and the people were awaiting development in the region.

"Today I have received the honour of flagging off development schemes worth over Rs 290 crore. The people of Silvassa have been neglected long enough and they were awaiting development in the region," Shah said.

The Home Minister was here to inaugurate a health and wellness centre.

He said that development started in the region after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in the year 2014.

"The pace of the development further increased after Praful Patel became the administrator of the union territory. I can say with confidence that in terms of development, the region will soon become one of the best in the country," Shah said.

"Silvassa is amid a beautiful landscape with rivers and mountains all around it," he added.

He said that the health and wellness centre inaugurated here will come as a blessing for the people and will improve the quality of healthcare.

Flagging off development schemes worth over Rs 290 crore, Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that Silvassa has been neglected long enough and the people were awaiting development in the region.

Flagging off development schemes worth over Rs 290 crore, Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that Silvassa has been neglected long enough and the people were awaiting development in the region. "Today I have received the honour of flagging off development schemes worth over Rs 290 crore. The people of Silvassa have been neglected long enough and they were awaiting development in the region," Shah said. The Home Minister was here to inaugurate a health and wellness centre. He said that development started in the region after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in the year 2014. "The pace of the development further increased after Praful Patel became the administrator of the union territory. I can say with confidence that in terms of development, the region will soon become one of the best in the country," Shah said. "Silvassa is amid a beautiful landscape with rivers and mountains all around it," he added. He said that the health and wellness centre inaugurated here will come as a blessing for the people and will improve the quality of healthcare.

Amit Shah flags off development schemes worth Rs 290 crore in Silvassa

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over. In the meanwhile, its top leaders such as P Chidambaram and, now, Karnataka’s DK Shivakumar, are in serious legal trouble. The former, despite his formidable financial and political clout, not to speak of legendry legal acumen, has spent days in detention. More recently, Shivakumar is facing the heat from the Enforcement Directorate, with the Karnataka High Court refusing to grant him protection from arrest.&nbsp;

Earlier in the week, Rahul Gandhi scored another self-goal. After his failed visit to Srinagar on August 24, when he was not allowed to leave the airport and forced to return politically empty-handed, Gandhi tweeted against the government for unleashing draconian measures and brute force on the people of our newest Union Territory. “Things in Jammu and Kashmir are going very wrong,” Gandhi said, “There are reports of violence. There are reports of people dying in Jammu and Kashmir.”&nbsp;

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Human Rights, Shireen Mazari, was quick to take advantage of Gandhi’s alarmist remarks, quite in consonance with its own strategy to internationalise the Kashmir issue. In her letter to officials of the United Nations, Mazari quoted Gandhi’s comment that people were dying in J&amp;K. Attacked by senior BJP ministers, Gandhi had to hastily beat a retreat by calling out Pakistan as a terror-sponsoring state on social media: “I disagree with this government on many issues,” he tweeted, “But, let me make this absolutely clear: Kashmir is India’s internal issue and there is no room for Pakistan or any other foreign country to interfere in it… There is violence in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. There is violence because it is instigated and supported by Pakistan which is known to be the prime supporter of terrorism across the world.”&nbsp;

Randeep Singh Surjewala, Congress communications chief, had to jump in to defend his former party president. Accusing Pakistan of mischievously trying to use Gandhi to peddle a “pack of lies”, he said, “Let no one in the world be in doubt that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and shall always remain integral parts of India. No amount of diabolical deception by Pakistan shall change this truth.” But the damage was done. Information and Broadcasting Minister and BJP political veteran, Prakash Javadekar accused Gandhi of helping Pakistan against India on the international stage. He rightly pointed out that Gandhi had been forced to make “a complete U-turn…due to circumstances and public pressure”. Earlier, during the 2019 election campaign, Gandhi had also failed to tarnish Modi’s incorruptible image with his “chowkidar chor hai” campaign.

It seems from all this that Jairam Ramesh certainly has a point. Demonising Narendra Modi isn’t helping the Congress. Rather, it shows the deep division, bordering on disarray, that afflicts India’s oldest political party. This was evident in the manner in which its high-profile and loquacious leader, three-times Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor, was targeted by his own state leadership. Pulled up by the Kerala Congress president, Mullapally Ramachandran, he was issued a show-cause notice.&nbsp;

The “original sinner”, as a report dubbed him, was not Tharoor, but Ramesh. The latter’s comments at a book launch in the national capital were also supported by party spokesman and lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi. But only Tharoor was targeted. It was the following remark that probably earned Tharoor his party’s ire: “As you know, I have argued for six years now that Narendra Modi should be praised whenever he says or does the right thing, which would add credibility to our criticism and whenever he errs. I welcome others in Opposition coming around to a view for which I was excoriated at the time.” Tharoor was forced to clarify that he was no admirer of Modi and the Kerala Congress had to be “satisfied” with his explanation. The party only earned itself some needless embarrassment and discomfiture in the process.

After the Modi Sarkar’s surgical strike against Article 370, several Congress leaders came out in support of the government. These included Jyotraditya Scindia, Deepender Hooda, RPN Singh and Jitin Prasada, in addition to the son of the former Maharaja of Kashmir and first regent of the state, Dr Karan Singh. Bhuvaneshwar Kalita, the Congress chief whip, went to the extent of resigning. With considerable difficulty, if not force, the CWC eventually passed a resolution opposing the government’s abrogation of Article 370’s key provisions. The Congress is now a divided house. Not only does it lack credible leadership, but a plan of action. As if this were not bad enough, it has also shown itself utterly unsuccessful in denting, leave alone destroying, Narendra Modi’s popularity and appeal.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-discomfiture-and-disarray-in-congress-2786246">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over.

What is happening to India’s oldest political formation, the Indian National Congress? Not only is it apparently headless but also in complete disarray. While Sonia Gandhi has reluctantly reassumed its reigns as its interim acting president, its leadership crisis is far from over. In the meanwhile, its top leaders such as P Chidambaram and, now, Karnataka’s DK Shivakumar, are in serious legal trouble. The former, despite his formidable financial and political clout, not to speak of legendry legal acumen, has spent days in detention. More recently, Shivakumar is facing the heat from the Enforcement Directorate, with the Karnataka High Court refusing to grant him protection from arrest. Earlier in the week, Rahul Gandhi scored another self-goal. After his failed visit to Srinagar on August 24, when he was not allowed to leave the airport and forced to return politically empty-handed, Gandhi tweeted against the government for unleashing draconian measures and brute force on the people of our newest Union Territory. “Things in Jammu and Kashmir are going very wrong,” Gandhi said, “There are reports of violence. There are reports of people dying in Jammu and Kashmir.” Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Human Rights, Shireen Mazari, was quick to take advantage of Gandhi’s alarmist remarks, quite in consonance with its own strategy to internationalise the Kashmir issue. In her letter to officials of the United Nations, Mazari quoted Gandhi’s comment that people were dying in J&K. Attacked by senior BJP ministers, Gandhi had to hastily beat a retreat by calling out Pakistan as a terror-sponsoring state on social media: “I disagree with this government on many issues,” he tweeted, “But, let me make this absolutely clear: Kashmir is India’s internal issue and there is no room for Pakistan or any other foreign country to interfere in it… There is violence in Jammu & Kashmir. There is violence because it is instigated and supported by Pakistan which is known to be the prime supporter of terrorism across the world.” Randeep Singh Surjewala, Congress communications chief, had to jump in to defend his former party president. Accusing Pakistan of mischievously trying to use Gandhi to peddle a “pack of lies”, he said, “Let no one in the world be in doubt that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were, are and shall always remain integral parts of India. No amount of diabolical deception by Pakistan shall change this truth.” But the damage was done. Information and Broadcasting Minister and BJP political veteran, Prakash Javadekar accused Gandhi of helping Pakistan against India on the international stage. He rightly pointed out that Gandhi had been forced to make “a complete U-turn…due to circumstances and public pressure”. Earlier, during the 2019 election campaign, Gandhi had also failed to tarnish Modi’s incorruptible image with his “chowkidar chor hai” campaign. It seems from all this that Jairam Ramesh certainly has a point. Demonising Narendra Modi isn’t helping the Congress. Rather, it shows the deep division, bordering on disarray, that afflicts India’s oldest political party. This was evident in the manner in which its high-profile and loquacious leader, three-times Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Shashi Tharoor, was targeted by his own state leadership. Pulled up by the Kerala Congress president, Mullapally Ramachandran, he was issued a show-cause notice. The “original sinner”, as a report dubbed him, was not Tharoor, but Ramesh. The latter’s comments at a book launch in the national capital were also supported by party spokesman and lawyer, Abhishek Manu Singhvi. But only Tharoor was targeted. It was the following remark that probably earned Tharoor his party’s ire: “As you know, I have argued for six years now that Narendra Modi should be praised whenever he says or does the right thing, which would add credibility to our criticism and whenever he errs. I welcome others in Opposition coming around to a view for which I was excoriated at the time.” Tharoor was forced to clarify that he was no admirer of Modi and the Kerala Congress had to be “satisfied” with his explanation. The party only earned itself some needless embarrassment and discomfiture in the process. After the Modi Sarkar’s surgical strike against Article 370, several Congress leaders came out in support of the government. These included Jyotraditya Scindia, Deepender Hooda, RPN Singh and Jitin Prasada, in addition to the son of the former Maharaja of Kashmir and first regent of the state, Dr Karan Singh. Bhuvaneshwar Kalita, the Congress chief whip, went to the extent of resigning. With considerable difficulty, if not force, the CWC eventually passed a resolution opposing the government’s abrogation of Article 370’s key provisions. The Congress is now a divided house. Not only does it lack credible leadership, but a plan of action. As if this were not bad enough, it has also shown itself utterly unsuccessful in denting, leave alone destroying, Narendra Modi’s popularity and appeal. (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)

Discomfiture and disarray in Congress

A meeting of the Executive Committee (EC) under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi was held on Friday during which several&nbsp;commemoration activities were planned to celebrate the150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

The meeting was attended by the&nbsp;senior ministers of various ministries&nbsp;including Home, Defence,&nbsp;Finance, HRD, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution and Culture Ministers as well as the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad. In addition, eight eminent Gandhians, who are members of the organising committee, were also present.

Among the grand plans for the 150th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation are, an international conference at the United Nations on September 24,&nbsp;the unveiling of Mahatma Gandhi's busts in 54 countries and an elaborate function on the Sabarmati Riverfront&nbsp;in Ahmedabad on October 2, in which commemorative coin and postage stamp will be released, illumination of iconic buildings across India and light and sound shows at India Gate in the national capital.&nbsp;

The grand celebration will kick off from September 11 and last till October 27.&nbsp;

The celebration activities also include awareness program across 4000 towns and 6 lakh villages in the country which will begin from September 11 and continue till October 1.

On October 2, various ministries will conduct a nationwide 'shramdaan' (voluntary work) for plastic waste in all the gram panchayats, urban local bodies, schools etc.

In the meeting, achievements under commemoration during the last one year were also reviewed.&nbsp;

Some of the major achievements that were reviewed include, International Sanitation Convention where 55 Ministers from 70 countries had gathered to learn from India’s sanitation experience, a large number of 'pad yatras', youth exchange programmes, seminars, workshops, Gandhi Katha, health camps etc. to propagate his life and message were organised, national Salt Satyagraha Memorial at Dandi inaugurated was also organised on January 30 this year, videos of ‘Vaishnav Jan’ sung by famous singers at iconic places from 155 countries prepared and publicised, 24,173 manual scavengers rehabilitated and 6792 skilled.&nbsp;

A national handicrafts fair will also be held between October 1 and October 15.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A meeting of the Executive Committee (EC) under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi was held on Friday during which several commemoration activities were planned to celebrate the150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

A meeting of the Executive Committee (EC) under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi was held on Friday during which several commemoration activities were planned to celebrate the150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The meeting was attended by the senior ministers of various ministries including Home, Defence, Finance, HRD, Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution and Culture Ministers as well as the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad. In addition, eight eminent Gandhians, who are members of the organising committee, were also present. Among the grand plans for the 150th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation are, an international conference at the United Nations on September 24, the unveiling of Mahatma Gandhi's busts in 54 countries and an elaborate function on the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad on October 2, in which commemorative coin and postage stamp will be released, illumination of iconic buildings across India and light and sound shows at India Gate in the national capital. The grand celebration will kick off from September 11 and last till October 27. The celebration activities also include awareness program across 4000 towns and 6 lakh villages in the country which will begin from September 11 and continue till October 1. On October 2, various ministries will conduct a nationwide 'shramdaan' (voluntary work) for plastic waste in all the gram panchayats, urban local bodies, schools etc. In the meeting, achievements under commemoration during the last one year were also reviewed. Some of the major achievements that were reviewed include, International Sanitation Convention where 55 Ministers from 70 countries had gathered to learn from India’s sanitation experience, a large number of 'pad yatras', youth exchange programmes, seminars, workshops, Gandhi Katha, health camps etc. to propagate his life and message were organised, national Salt Satyagraha Memorial at Dandi inaugurated was also organised on January 30 this year, videos of ‘Vaishnav Jan’ sung by famous singers at iconic places from 155 countries prepared and publicised, 24,173 manual scavengers rehabilitated and 6792 skilled. A national handicrafts fair will also be held between October 1 and October 15.

PM Modi chairs executive committee meeting on commemoration of Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described his outgoing Principal Secretary Nripendra Misra as "among the most outstanding officers who has a great grasp of public policy and administration" and said Misra taught him a lot when he was new to Delhi in 2014 and the "guidance remains extremely valuable".

In a series of tweets, he said he had accepted Misra's request to relieve him from duties.

Praising Misra, Modi said he served the PMO assiduously and diligently for five years and made an indelible contribution to country's growth.

"After serving the PMO assiduously and diligently for over five years and making an indelible contribution to India's growth trajectory, Nripendra Misraji will be embarking on a new phase of his life. My best wishes to him for his future endeavours," he tweeted.

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Shri Nripendra Misra is among the most outstanding officers, who has a great grasp of public policy and administration. When I was new to Delhi in 2014, he taught me a lot and his guidance remains extremely valuable.
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"Nripendra Misra is among the most outstanding officers, who has a great grasp of public policy and administration. When I was new to Delhi in 2014, he taught me a lot and his guidance remains extremely valuable," Modi said.

He said Misra had requested to be relieved after the 2019 Lok Sabha elections - in which BJP-led NDA won a bigger mandate than in 2014. Modi said he requested Misra to continue till an alternative arrangement had been made.

Modi also spoke of Misra's role in government's policies and programmes winning trust of poeple.

He said Misra always gave him support as a colleague. "When I took over as Prime Minister in 2014, Delhi was also new to me and Nripendra Mishra was also new. But he was well acquainted with the governance of Delhi. In that situation, he gave his valuable services as Principal Secretary," Modi said.

"At that time, he not only helped me personally but also played an important role in taking the country forward for 5 years and winning the trust of the people. As a colleague, he always gave me support".

Modi said Misra will be relieved from the second week of September according to his wish.

"Misra's request to relieve him from duties has been accepted. My best wishes for him in his future endeavours," Modi said.

Former Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha has been appointed Officer on Special Duty in the Prime Minister's Office. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described his outgoing Principal Secretary Nripendra Misra as "among the most outstanding officers who has a great grasp of public policy and administration" and said Misra taught him a lot when he was new to Delhi in 2014 and the "guidance remains extremely valuable".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday described his outgoing Principal Secretary Nripendra Misra as "among the most outstanding officers who has a great grasp of public policy and administration" and said Misra taught him a lot when he was new to Delhi in 2014 and the "guidance remains extremely valuable". In a series of tweets, he said he had accepted Misra's request to relieve him from duties. Praising Misra, Modi said he served the PMO assiduously and diligently for five years and made an indelible contribution to country's growth. "After serving the PMO assiduously and diligently for over five years and making an indelible contribution to India's growth trajectory, Nripendra Misraji will be embarking on a new phase of his life. My best wishes to him for his future endeavours," he tweeted. Shri Nripendra Misra is among the most outstanding officers, who has a great grasp of public policy and administration. When I was new to Delhi in 2014, he taught me a lot and his guidance remains extremely valuable. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 30, 2019 × "Nripendra Misra is among the most outstanding officers, who has a great grasp of public policy and administration. When I was new to Delhi in 2014, he taught me a lot and his guidance remains extremely valuable," Modi said. He said Misra had requested to be relieved after the 2019 Lok Sabha elections - in which BJP-led NDA won a bigger mandate than in 2014. Modi said he requested Misra to continue till an alternative arrangement had been made. Modi also spoke of Misra's role in government's policies and programmes winning trust of poeple. He said Misra always gave him support as a colleague. "When I took over as Prime Minister in 2014, Delhi was also new to me and Nripendra Mishra was also new. But he was well acquainted with the governance of Delhi. In that situation, he gave his valuable services as Principal Secretary," Modi said. "At that time, he not only helped me personally but also played an important role in taking the country forward for 5 years and winning the trust of the people. As a colleague, he always gave me support". Modi said Misra will be relieved from the second week of September according to his wish. "Misra's request to relieve him from duties has been accepted. My best wishes for him in his future endeavours," Modi said. Former Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha has been appointed Officer on Special Duty in the Prime Minister's Office.

Nripendra Misra taught a lot when I was new to Delhi: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that New India is about participative democracy, a citizen-centric government, and proactive citizenry.

Speaking at an event organised by a Kerala based media organisation today via video conferencing, Prime Minister Modi said, "The core of new India's spirit is individual aspirations, collective endeavours and a spirit of ownership for national progress. New India is about participative democracy, a citizen-centric government and proactive citizenry. New India is the era of responsible people and responsive government."

Speaking about how India is changing, the Prime Minister said that for many years a culture was perpetrated in which aspiration had become a bad word, doors were open depending upon your contacts, success depended on whether or not you belonged to an old boys club.

Big cities, institutions, and big families were all that mattered. The economic culture of licence raj and permit raj had struck at the heart of individual ambition. But today things are changing for the better.

"We see the spirit of new India in the vibrant startup ecosystem. Thousands of talented youngsters are creating a fantastic platform showcasing a spirit of enterprise. We also see this spirt in the sports field. India is now excelling in arenas where we were hardly present earlier," Modi said.

"Be it startup or sports, who is powering this vibrancy? It is courageous youngsters from small towns and villages, most people not even had heard of. They did not have big bank balances but they have, in plenty, dedication and aspiration. They are converting that aspiration into excellence and making India proud. This for me is the new India spirit," he said.

PM Modi further said that "competence" is going to be the only norm now and not "surnames".

"This is an India where the surnames of the youth do not matter. What matters is their ability to make their own name. This is an India where corruption is never an option, whoever the person is. Only competence is the norm."

Speaking about the massive changes India has been witnessing, Modi said, "Now, it is common to see people using Wi-Fi facilities in railway stations. Who would have ever thought this would be a reality. The system is the same, the people are the same yet, massive changes have taken place on the ground."

Elaborating on changing India, Prime Minister Modi said, "How the spirit has changed in India can be summed up using just two words. Five years ago, people would ask -will we? Will we ever be free from dirt? Will we ever remove policy paralysis? Will we ever eliminate corruption?"

"Today people say - we will! We will be a Swachh Bharat. We will be a nation free from corruption. We will make good governance a mass movement. The word `will`, which earlier denoted a pessimistic question now reflects the optimistic spirit of a youthful nation," he added.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that New India is about participative democracy, a citizen-centric government, and proactive citizenry. Speaking at an event organised by a Kerala based media organisation today via video conferencing, Prime Minister Modi said, "The core of new India's spirit is individual aspirations, collective endeavours and a spirit of ownership for national progress.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that New India is about participative democracy, a citizen-centric government, and proactive citizenry. Speaking at an event organised by a Kerala based media organisation today via video conferencing, Prime Minister Modi said, "The core of new India's spirit is individual aspirations, collective endeavours and a spirit of ownership for national progress. New India is about participative democracy, a citizen-centric government and proactive citizenry. New India is the era of responsible people and responsive government." Speaking about how India is changing, the Prime Minister said that for many years a culture was perpetrated in which aspiration had become a bad word, doors were open depending upon your contacts, success depended on whether or not you belonged to an old boys club. Big cities, institutions, and big families were all that mattered. The economic culture of licence raj and permit raj had struck at the heart of individual ambition. But today things are changing for the better. "We see the spirit of new India in the vibrant startup ecosystem. Thousands of talented youngsters are creating a fantastic platform showcasing a spirit of enterprise. We also see this spirt in the sports field. India is now excelling in arenas where we were hardly present earlier," Modi said. "Be it startup or sports, who is powering this vibrancy? It is courageous youngsters from small towns and villages, most people not even had heard of. They did not have big bank balances but they have, in plenty, dedication and aspiration. They are converting that aspiration into excellence and making India proud. This for me is the new India spirit," he said. PM Modi further said that "competence" is going to be the only norm now and not "surnames". "This is an India where the surnames of the youth do not matter. What matters is their ability to make their own name. This is an India where corruption is never an option, whoever the person is. Only competence is the norm." Speaking about the massive changes India has been witnessing, Modi said, "Now, it is common to see people using Wi-Fi facilities in railway stations. Who would have ever thought this would be a reality. The system is the same, the people are the same yet, massive changes have taken place on the ground." Elaborating on changing India, Prime Minister Modi said, "How the spirit has changed in India can be summed up using just two words. Five years ago, people would ask -will we? Will we ever be free from dirt? Will we ever remove policy paralysis? Will we ever eliminate corruption?" "Today people say - we will! We will be a Swachh Bharat. We will be a nation free from corruption. We will make good governance a mass movement. The word `will`, which earlier denoted a pessimistic question now reflects the optimistic spirit of a youthful nation," he added.

New India is about participative democracy, citizen centric government: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched a nation-wide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sports-minister-rijiju-expresses-happiness-over-fit-india-movements-launch-on-dhyan-chands-birth-anniversary-246358">'Fit India Movement'</a> at Indira Gandhi Stadium complex in the national capital.

The Prime Minister also administered a fitness pledge on the occasion.

'Fit India movement', was launched on the occasion of the National Sports Day -- the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, which aims to encourage people to inculcate physical activity and sports in their everyday lives.

"On this day a great sportsperson was born, Major Dhyan Chand. He amazed the world with his fitness, stamina, and hockey stick," Modi said at the event.

Ahead of the launch, students from different schools presented a stellar performance before the Prime Minister and other attendees.

All educational institutes have been instructed to prepare and implement a fitness plan incorporating sports, exercises or other physical activities for fitness, into the daily routine.

Ahead of the event launch, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju tweeted, "As PM Narendra Modi ji is launching Fit India Movement, I'm extremely excited to see Chief Ministers making clarion call to citizens in their respective States for fitness. Here is the message of the CM of Tripura Biplab Deb Kumar ji."

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his happiness over fitness movement launch. He tweeted, "I am also happy to know that the Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi himself is going to launch the #FitIndiaMovement today to mark the National Sports Day. I appeal to everyone to join this fitness movement and make a 'Fitter &amp; Better India'."

During his latest 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address, Modi had asked people to take part in the 'Fit India Movement'.

"During today's Mann Ki Baat, I have made some requests to my fellow Indians: Visit iconic places relating to Bapu as a part of his 150th Jayanti. Travel to places related to nature and wildlife. Strengthen Poshan Abhiyan. Be a part of Fit India movement," he had said.

This is not the first time that the Modi government has launched a fitness campaign. It was Prime Minister who, through the United Nations as a forum, urged the world to observe International Yoga Day on June 21 every year. The government last year had come up with #HumFitTohIndiaFit campaign in which people from all walks of life participated by sharing their exercise regimes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched a nation-wide 'Fit India Movement' at Indira Gandhi Stadium complex in the national capital. The Prime Minister also administered a fitness pledge on the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched a nation-wide 'Fit India Movement' at Indira Gandhi Stadium complex in the national capital. The Prime Minister also administered a fitness pledge on the occasion. 'Fit India movement', was launched on the occasion of the National Sports Day -- the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, which aims to encourage people to inculcate physical activity and sports in their everyday lives. "On this day a great sportsperson was born, Major Dhyan Chand. He amazed the world with his fitness, stamina, and hockey stick," Modi said at the event. Ahead of the launch, students from different schools presented a stellar performance before the Prime Minister and other attendees. All educational institutes have been instructed to prepare and implement a fitness plan incorporating sports, exercises or other physical activities for fitness, into the daily routine. Ahead of the event launch, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju tweeted, "As PM Narendra Modi ji is launching Fit India Movement, I'm extremely excited to see Chief Ministers making clarion call to citizens in their respective States for fitness. Here is the message of the CM of Tripura Biplab Deb Kumar ji." Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his happiness over fitness movement launch. He tweeted, "I am also happy to know that the Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi himself is going to launch the #FitIndiaMovement today to mark the National Sports Day. I appeal to everyone to join this fitness movement and make a 'Fitter & Better India'." During his latest 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address, Modi had asked people to take part in the 'Fit India Movement'. "During today's Mann Ki Baat, I have made some requests to my fellow Indians: Visit iconic places relating to Bapu as a part of his 150th Jayanti. Travel to places related to nature and wildlife. Strengthen Poshan Abhiyan. Be a part of Fit India movement," he had said. This is not the first time that the Modi government has launched a fitness campaign. It was Prime Minister who, through the United Nations as a forum, urged the world to observe International Yoga Day on June 21 every year. The government last year had come up with #HumFitTohIndiaFit campaign in which people from all walks of life participated by sharing their exercise regimes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launches 'Fit India Movement' on National Sports Day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-launches-fit-india-movement-on-national-sports-day-246360">Fit India movement as part of the National Sports Day celebrations</a>. But the question remains, how fit the country is?&nbsp;

While India's obesity rate has been on the rise, cases of cancer are also growing at an alarming rate. Here's a report on India's health index as we break down the numbers for you.&nbsp;

India's health

A report on India's health situation shows an increasingly obese population, especially in the cities. The number of overweight men and women in the cities has grown in the last decade, also indicating that the richest have the poorest health whereas the middle-aged are the worst hit.&nbsp;

It is also revealed that women are more likely to be overweight or obese than men after the age of 30.&nbsp;

Not surprisingly, the metros have a higher share of overweight men and women than the national average. Mumbai comes out as the worst performer on the national health index, followed by Chennai, Delhi, and Bengaluru.

Globally, India ranks 120th in a list of 169 nations as per a 2019 healthiest country index.

Our neighbours China, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal continue to be healthier. Spain has emerged as the world’s healthiest nation.&nbsp;

What's ailing India?&nbsp;

Diabetes, hypertension, cancer, cardiovascular diseases are some of the leading lifestyle diseases plaguing the Indian population. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, more Indians are now dying due of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). &nbsp;

National Family Health survey reveals 11 per cent Indian women and 15 per cent Indian men have high blood pressure with over 60 per cent of those surveyed who had never got their blood pressure tested.&nbsp;

The number of cancer patients and deaths due to cancer have increased in the last 5 years. Over 7 crore people in India are likely to suffer from cancer by 2021.

Central government's Fit India movement is a multi-ministry effort introducing basic fitness practices in the daily lives of Indians - a majority of who lack access to sports or fitness infrastructure in their neighbourhoods.

PM Modi said that due to advancing technology, physical activity has reduced, hence, this movement was the need of the hour.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched the Fit India movement as part of the National Sports Day celebrations. But the question remains, how fit the country is?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched the Fit India movement as part of the National Sports Day celebrations. But the question remains, how fit the country is? While India's obesity rate has been on the rise, cases of cancer are also growing at an alarming rate. Here's a report on India's health index as we break down the numbers for you. India's health A report on India's health situation shows an increasingly obese population, especially in the cities. The number of overweight men and women in the cities has grown in the last decade, also indicating that the richest have the poorest health whereas the middle-aged are the worst hit. It is also revealed that women are more likely to be overweight or obese than men after the age of 30. Not surprisingly, the metros have a higher share of overweight men and women than the national average. Mumbai comes out as the worst performer on the national health index, followed by Chennai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Globally, India ranks 120th in a list of 169 nations as per a 2019 healthiest country index. Our neighbours China, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal continue to be healthier. Spain has emerged as the world’s healthiest nation. What's ailing India? Diabetes, hypertension, cancer, cardiovascular diseases are some of the leading lifestyle diseases plaguing the Indian population. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, more Indians are now dying due of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). National Family Health survey reveals 11 per cent Indian women and 15 per cent Indian men have high blood pressure with over 60 per cent of those surveyed who had never got their blood pressure tested. The number of cancer patients and deaths due to cancer have increased in the last 5 years. Over 7 crore people in India are likely to suffer from cancer by 2021. Central government's Fit India movement is a multi-ministry effort introducing basic fitness practices in the daily lives of Indians - a majority of who lack access to sports or fitness infrastructure in their neighbourhoods. PM Modi said that due to advancing technology, physical activity has reduced, hence, this movement was the need of the hour.

Fit India movement: Where does India stand on health index? 

Bharatiya Janata Party will be organising a week-long 'Seva Saptah'&nbsp;or Service Week in mid-September to mark the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday on September 17.

The campaign will be held from September 14 to September 20 across the country and different programmes related to cleanliness and social service will be organised by the party workers.

To make the initiative a grand success, BJP has constituted a central committee with party leader Avinash Rai Khanna being appointed as its convenor.

Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and national secretaries Sudha Yadav and Sunil Deodhar are also part of the committee.

As part of the campaign, BJP workers will also organise blood donation camps, health camps and eye check-up.

They will also visit hospitals and orphanages to provide help and relief to patients and underprivileged.

BJP leaders will also facilitate education assistance for hundreds of specially-abled people during the campaign.

During the week-long campaign, books inspired by the life and achievements of Prime Minister Modi will be sent to state unites, where senior leaders of the party will distribute them personally during different events.

Exhibitions highlighting life and achievements of the prime minister will be organised across the country.

Keeping in mind Prime Minister's call for launching a mass movement against single-use plastic, all party leaders including MPs, MLAs will run a campaign against the use of single-use plastic in different universities.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party will be organising a week-long 'Seva Saptah' or Service Week in mid-September to mark the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday on September 17.

Bharatiya Janata Party will be organising a week-long 'Seva Saptah' or Service Week in mid-September to mark the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday on September 17. The campaign will be held from September 14 to September 20 across the country and different programmes related to cleanliness and social service will be organised by the party workers. To make the initiative a grand success, BJP has constituted a central committee with party leader Avinash Rai Khanna being appointed as its convenor. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal and national secretaries Sudha Yadav and Sunil Deodhar are also part of the committee. As part of the campaign, BJP workers will also organise blood donation camps, health camps and eye check-up. They will also visit hospitals and orphanages to provide help and relief to patients and underprivileged. BJP leaders will also facilitate education assistance for hundreds of specially-abled people during the campaign. During the week-long campaign, books inspired by the life and achievements of Prime Minister Modi will be sent to state unites, where senior leaders of the party will distribute them personally during different events. Exhibitions highlighting life and achievements of the prime minister will be organised across the country. Keeping in mind Prime Minister's call for launching a mass movement against single-use plastic, all party leaders including MPs, MLAs will run a campaign against the use of single-use plastic in different universities.

BJP to organise 'Seva Saptah' next month to mark PM Modi's birthday

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf.&nbsp;

Both sides after holding talks starting 1:00pm on Wednesday and will hold a press conference in which important things are likely to be announced especially in convergences on regional developments.

"They will discuss... efforts to preserve the joint comprehensive plan of action on Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the Persian Gulf area and situation in Afghanistan", Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of Russian foreign ministry said.

The visit comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia in the first week of September to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum.

"They will focus on the preparations for the Indian delegation's participation in the 5th eastern economic forum and the annual summit. Important thematic sections include trade, investment, military, science and technology cooperation, the use of national currencies for mutual payments and prospective projects in space exploration and energy", Zakharova added.

Moscow has supported India on Kashmir. It was&nbsp;the first member of the permanent five of the United Nations Security Council to back New Delhi's decision to remove the special status&nbsp;for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;ministry of foreign affairs, in response to a question, said, "Change in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its division into two union territories are carried out within the&nbsp;framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India."

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf. Both sides after holding talks starting 1:00pm on Wednesday and will hold a press conference in which important things are likely to be announced especially in convergences on regional developments. "They will discuss... efforts to preserve the joint comprehensive plan of action on Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the Persian Gulf area and situation in Afghanistan", Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of Russian foreign ministry said. The visit comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia in the first week of September to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum. "They will focus on the preparations for the Indian delegation's participation in the 5th eastern economic forum and the annual summit. Important thematic sections include trade, investment, military, science and technology cooperation, the use of national currencies for mutual payments and prospective projects in space exploration and energy", Zakharova added. Moscow has supported India on Kashmir. It was the first member of the permanent five of the United Nations Security Council to back New Delhi's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Russia ministry of foreign affairs, in response to a question, said, "Change in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its division into two union territories are carried out within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India."

Foreign minister Jaishankar on two-day visit to Russia from today

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed star shuttler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/whenever-i-lose-he-is-like-its-okay-well-try-next-time-pv-sindhu-on-coach-pullela-gopichand-245912">PV Sindhu</a> as 'India's&nbsp;pride' after she returned with the gold medal from the&nbsp;BWF World Championships.&nbsp;

Sindu defeated&nbsp;Japan's Nozomi Okuhara 21-7, 21-7 in the finals of the tournament to win the elusive medal on Sunday.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old badminton player brought glory to the nation as she became the first Indian to win gold at BWF World Championships.&nbsp;

"India's pride, a champion who has brought home a Gold and lots of glory! Happy to have met @Pvsindhu1. Congratulated her and wished her the very best for her future endeavours," PM Modi tweeted.&nbsp;

After her win, Sindhu arrived in India early Tuesday morning and was seen thanking fans for their support and said that she wished to win "many more medals for the country."

Sindhu also met Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju.

The minister presented the shuttler with a cheque of Rs 10 lakhs for winning a gold medal in BWF World Championships.

Watch: WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo talks about Sindhu's win

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Watch: Sindhu's exclusive chat with WION

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This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, two of them silvers and two of them bronze.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed star shuttler PV Sindhu as 'India's pride' after she returned with the gold medal from the BWF World Championships. Sindu defeated Japan's Nozomi Okuhara 21-7, 21-7 in the finals of the tournament to win the elusive medal on Sunday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed star shuttler PV Sindhu as 'India's pride' after she returned with the gold medal from the BWF World Championships. Sindu defeated Japan's Nozomi Okuhara 21-7, 21-7 in the finals of the tournament to win the elusive medal on Sunday. The 24-year-old badminton player brought glory to the nation as she became the first Indian to win gold at BWF World Championships. "India's pride, a champion who has brought home a Gold and lots of glory! Happy to have met @Pvsindhu1. Congratulated her and wished her the very best for her future endeavours," PM Modi tweeted. After her win, Sindhu arrived in India early Tuesday morning and was seen thanking fans for their support and said that she wished to win "many more medals for the country." Sindhu also met Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju. The minister presented the shuttler with a cheque of Rs 10 lakhs for winning a gold medal in BWF World Championships. Watch: WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo talks about Sindhu's win × Watch: Sindhu's exclusive chat with WION × This is Sindhu's fifth world championship medal, two of them silvers and two of them bronze.

PM Modi meets PV Sindhu, calls her India's pride

From climate change to tender for e-rickshaws to India's membership for the Nuclear Suppliers' groups were among the topics that dominated the talks when Prime Minister Narendra Modi sat with world leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

Climate Change was the focus when PM held talks with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday evening.

United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) understood India's position on its bid for Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and said that he is willing to help on the matter when Guterres raised concerns over India's thermal power plants in the context of climate change. New Delhi has been focusing on renewable and nuclear energy in a bid to curtail pollution.

"PM referred to UNSG that nuclear power is investment intensive industry and membership to NSG is crucial to building investor confidence", Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said in a press conference.

PM will address the United Nations General assembly in September and will be a keynote speaker at UN Climate Change summit.&nbsp;

With the UK, PM Modi began by congratulating his counterpart Johnson on England’s spectacular win in the third Test of the Ashes. Overall economics dominated the agenda in the wake of Britain's exit from the European Union.

Johnson specifically talked about the need to develop a partnership between the two countries and he understood that it is important for access to be given for talented Indians to the UK

With a focus on developing a partnership in the post-Brexit scenario, both leaders agreed to form a small team to enhance the economic alliance between India and the UK.&nbsp;

The UK plans to leave the European Union by the end of October this year.

PM Modi also met President of Senegal Macky Sall. India has given 250 solar-powered e-rickshaws to the West African country.&nbsp;

President of Senegal told PM a substantial tender will be placed in this regard soon.&nbsp;

PM also attended a dedicated session of G7 Biarritz summit on ‘Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate’ and underlined India’s contribution to reducing biodiversity, climate change, water stress and ocean pollution.

PM Modi was on a three-nation visit --France, UAE and Bahrain.

From climate change to tender for e-rickshaws to India's membership for the Nuclear Suppliers' groups were among the topics that dominated the talks when Prime Minister Narendra Modi sat with world leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

From climate change to tender for e-rickshaws to India's membership for the Nuclear Suppliers' groups were among the topics that dominated the talks when Prime Minister Narendra Modi sat with world leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit. Climate Change was the focus when PM held talks with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday evening. United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) understood India's position on its bid for Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and said that he is willing to help on the matter when Guterres raised concerns over India's thermal power plants in the context of climate change. New Delhi has been focusing on renewable and nuclear energy in a bid to curtail pollution. "PM referred to UNSG that nuclear power is investment intensive industry and membership to NSG is crucial to building investor confidence", Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said in a press conference. PM will address the United Nations General assembly in September and will be a keynote speaker at UN Climate Change summit. With the UK, PM Modi began by congratulating his counterpart Johnson on England’s spectacular win in the third Test of the Ashes. Overall economics dominated the agenda in the wake of Britain's exit from the European Union. Johnson specifically talked about the need to develop a partnership between the two countries and he understood that it is important for access to be given for talented Indians to the UK With a focus on developing a partnership in the post-Brexit scenario, both leaders agreed to form a small team to enhance the economic alliance between India and the UK. The UK plans to leave the European Union by the end of October this year. PM Modi also met President of Senegal Macky Sall. India has given 250 solar-powered e-rickshaws to the West African country. President of Senegal told PM a substantial tender will be placed in this regard soon. PM also attended a dedicated session of G7 Biarritz summit on ‘Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate’ and underlined India’s contribution to reducing biodiversity, climate change, water stress and ocean pollution. PM Modi was on a three-nation visit --France, UAE and Bahrain.

Talks on climate change to NSG membership, big takeaways from PM Modi's participation at G7 summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, on the sidelines of the G7 summit hosted by the southwestern French city of Biarritz on Sunday and had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects.

"PM @narendramodi met @UN Secretary General Mr. @antonioguterres on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects," the Prime Minister's Office announced in a tweet.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> met <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Secretary General Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@antonioguterres</a> on the sidelines of the <a href="https://twitter.com/G7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@G7</a> Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects. <a href="https://t.co/JuGsftQKRT">pic.twitter.com/JuGsftQKRT</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1165670577685876740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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At the G7 summit, Modi is expected to speak during sessions on the environment, climate, oceans, and digital transformation, besides also holding bilaterals with leaders of other countries participating in the two-day summit being held here.

The summit holds significance from India's perspective particularly for the fact that the Kashmir issue is expected to come up during Modi's interaction with the leaders of the member countries, particularly US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The same was also conveyed recently by a senior official from the Trump administration.

India is not a member country of the G-7, and the invitation to participate in the summit was extended by France.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, on the sidelines of the G7 summit hosted by the southwestern French city of Biarritz on Sunday and had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, on the sidelines of the G7 summit hosted by the southwestern French city of Biarritz on Sunday and had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects. "PM @narendramodi met @UN Secretary General Mr. @antonioguterres on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects," the Prime Minister's Office announced in a tweet. PM @narendramodi met @UN Secretary General Mr. @antonioguterres on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects. pic.twitter.com/JuGsftQKRT — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 25, 2019 × At the G7 summit, Modi is expected to speak during sessions on the environment, climate, oceans, and digital transformation, besides also holding bilaterals with leaders of other countries participating in the two-day summit being held here. The summit holds significance from India's perspective particularly for the fact that the Kashmir issue is expected to come up during Modi's interaction with the leaders of the member countries, particularly US President Donald Trump. The same was also conveyed recently by a senior official from the Trump administration. India is not a member country of the G-7, and the invitation to participate in the summit was extended by France.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on sidelines of G7 in France

The G7 is, perhaps, the world’s most important grouping when it comes to economic management and development. It has been so for the last 44 years. These annual summits were begun to thrash out issues of economic importance. When it was created in 1975, the group was G6 -- with six countries that had the lion's share of the global economy.&nbsp;

Canada was included later. In the early years, the group attempted to strengthen democracy around the world, fight the closed-market the then-Soviet Union and East Bloc. Now its scope is broader. For instance, this year's G7 theme is “Fighting inequality”.

At the same time, over the decades, the group has lost some of its sheen as many key countries are not included. Thus, the G20 emerged as more important than the G7. It is inconceivable that any group aiming to fight inequality should keep India and China out of it.&nbsp;

Today India and China are among the top seven countries in terms of the world’s GDP share. Besides, there is a power shift with India and China demonstrating the potential to drive what is billed as the ‘Asian Century’. Decisions crucial to the global economy cannot be made by keeping India out. 
 
The G7 needs to upgrade both its membership and mindset.&nbsp;

All major economies including the European Union nations and the US are seeking stronger trade ties and economic relations with India, which is now a magnet for rising foreign investment. India should be engaged as an equal partner by these developed nations in the interests of the global economy especially if its self-appointed leaders are serious about avowed objectives like “Fighting Inequality”. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

The G7 is, perhaps, the world’s most important grouping when it comes to economic management and development. It has been so for the last 44 years. These annual summits were begun to thrash out issues of economic importance.

The G7 is, perhaps, the world’s most important grouping when it comes to economic management and development. It has been so for the last 44 years. These annual summits were begun to thrash out issues of economic importance. When it was created in 1975, the group was G6 -- with six countries that had the lion's share of the global economy. Canada was included later. In the early years, the group attempted to strengthen democracy around the world, fight the closed-market the then-Soviet Union and East Bloc. Now its scope is broader. For instance, this year's G7 theme is “Fighting inequality”. At the same time, over the decades, the group has lost some of its sheen as many key countries are not included. Thus, the G20 emerged as more important than the G7. It is inconceivable that any group aiming to fight inequality should keep India and China out of it. Today India and China are among the top seven countries in terms of the world’s GDP share. Besides, there is a power shift with India and China demonstrating the potential to drive what is billed as the ‘Asian Century’. Decisions crucial to the global economy cannot be made by keeping India out. The G7 needs to upgrade both its membership and mindset. All major economies including the European Union nations and the US are seeking stronger trade ties and economic relations with India, which is now a magnet for rising foreign investment. India should be engaged as an equal partner by these developed nations in the interests of the global economy especially if its self-appointed leaders are serious about avowed objectives like “Fighting Inequality”. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: India at G7 Summit - 'Fighting Inequality'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed a session on 'Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate'&nbsp;at G-7 summit here and highlighted India's efforts at eliminating the single-use of plastic, conserving water and harnessing solar energy.

The Prime Minister underlined India's contribution to addressing climate change, water stress, and ocean pollution.

He also spoke about India's efforts at harnessing solar energy and protecting flora and fauna.

"At the @G7 Summit in Biarritz, I addressed the session on 'Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate.'&nbsp;Highlighted India's large scale efforts towards eliminating single-use plastic, conserving water, harnessing solar energy and, protecting flora and fauna for a sustainable future," Modi said in a tweet.

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At the <a href="https://twitter.com/G7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@G7</a> Summit in Biarritz, I addressed the session on ‘Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate.’ Highlighted India’s large scale efforts towards eliminating single use plastic, conserving water, harnessing solar energy and, protecting flora and fauna for a sustainable future. <a href="https://t.co/djS5ksgVEZ">pic.twitter.com/djS5ksgVEZ</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1165933677727092736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The session was attended by several world leaders. India is not a member of G-7 grouping but Prime Minister Modi has been personally invited by French President Emmanuel Macron.

India and France have a shared commitment to effectively combat climate change and loss of biodiversity.

It is worth mentioning that Prime Minister Modi and then French President Francois Hollande had jointly launched the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in November 2015 at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed a session on 'Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate' at G-7 summit here and highlighted India's efforts at eliminating the single-use of plastic, conserving water and harnessing solar energy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed a session on 'Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate' at G-7 summit here and highlighted India's efforts at eliminating the single-use of plastic, conserving water and harnessing solar energy. The Prime Minister underlined India's contribution to addressing climate change, water stress, and ocean pollution. He also spoke about India's efforts at harnessing solar energy and protecting flora and fauna. "At the @G7 Summit in Biarritz, I addressed the session on 'Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate.' Highlighted India's large scale efforts towards eliminating single-use plastic, conserving water, harnessing solar energy and, protecting flora and fauna for a sustainable future," Modi said in a tweet. At the @G7 Summit in Biarritz, I addressed the session on ‘Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate.’ Highlighted India’s large scale efforts towards eliminating single use plastic, conserving water, harnessing solar energy and, protecting flora and fauna for a sustainable future. pic.twitter.com/djS5ksgVEZ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 26, 2019 × The session was attended by several world leaders. India is not a member of G-7 grouping but Prime Minister Modi has been personally invited by French President Emmanuel Macron. India and France have a shared commitment to effectively combat climate change and loss of biodiversity. It is worth mentioning that Prime Minister Modi and then French President Francois Hollande had jointly launched the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in November 2015 at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Paris.

PM Narendra Modi highlights India's efforts for sustainable future at G-7 summit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-honours-pm-modi-with-king-hamad-order-of-the-renaissance-245393">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Sunday departed from Bahrain to France's Biarritz to attend the G7 summit.

PM Modi will participate in the G7 summit as Biarritz partner in sessions on the environment, climate, oceans and on digital transformation on August 25 and 26.

Earlier on August 22, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/climate-change-defence-and-kashmir-in-the-spotlight-as-modi-meets-macron-ahead-of-g7-summit-244916">PM Modi visited France</a> and held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron.

On the bilateral side, Modi and Macron discussed a gamut of issues.

PM&nbsp;Modi is also expected to interact with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-trump-set-to-meet-at-g7-summit-on-august-26-244877">US President Donald Trump</a> and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at G7.

It's after a gap of more than 10 years that India has been invited at the G7 summit, the last time being 2005 when the then British Prime Minister Tony Blair had invited the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Gleneagles summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday departed from Bahrain to France's Biarritz to attend the G7 summit. PM Modi will participate in the G7 summit as Biarritz partner in sessions on the environment, climate, oceans and on digital transformation on August 25 and 26.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday departed from Bahrain to France's Biarritz to attend the G7 summit. PM Modi will participate in the G7 summit as Biarritz partner in sessions on the environment, climate, oceans and on digital transformation on August 25 and 26. Earlier on August 22, PM Modi visited France and held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. On the bilateral side, Modi and Macron discussed a gamut of issues. PM Modi is also expected to interact with US President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at G7. It's after a gap of more than 10 years that India has been invited at the G7 summit, the last time being 2005 when the then British Prime Minister Tony Blair had invited the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Gleneagles summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for France to attend G7 summit

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitley-passes-away-at-66-245276">Arun Jaitley's mortal remains</a> were brought to the BJP's headquarters on Sunday.

Jaitley's remains were&nbsp;brought to the BJP headquarters in Rouse Avenue from his South Delhi house in a vehicle adorned with white flowers with huge life-size portraits of the leader both at the front and back.

Several political leaders arrived at the BJP headquarters to pay their respects to the former union minister.

BJP veteran leader's mortal remains would be kept at the BJP headquarters for people to pay homage and will be cremated at Nigambodh Ghat later in the day.&nbsp;

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released an official statement on Saturday to confirm the sad demise of the former union minister.

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Condoling the demise of Jaitley, Prime Minister Narendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-here-so-far-and-my-friend-has-gone-pm-modis-emotional-tribute-to-jaitley-in-bahrain-245387">Modi described him as a "political giant</a>, towering intellectual and legal luminary".

He was not keeping well for some time. After Modi government retained power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jaitley wrote to Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not take up any responsibility in the government due to his deteriorating health condition.

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley's mortal remains were brought to the BJP's headquarters on Sunday. Jaitley's remains were brought to the BJP headquarters in Rouse Avenue from his South Delhi house in a vehicle adorned with white flowers with huge life-size portraits of the leader both at the front and back.

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley's mortal remains were brought to the BJP's headquarters on Sunday. Jaitley's remains were brought to the BJP headquarters in Rouse Avenue from his South Delhi house in a vehicle adorned with white flowers with huge life-size portraits of the leader both at the front and back. Several political leaders arrived at the BJP headquarters to pay their respects to the former union minister. BJP veteran leader's mortal remains would be kept at the BJP headquarters for people to pay homage and will be cremated at Nigambodh Ghat later in the day. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released an official statement on Saturday to confirm the sad demise of the former union minister. Condoling the demise of Jaitley, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a "political giant, towering intellectual and legal luminary". He was not keeping well for some time. After Modi government retained power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jaitley wrote to Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not take up any responsibility in the government due to his deteriorating health condition.

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley's mortal remains moved to BJP headquarters, several leaders arrive to pay respects

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitley-passes-away-at-66-245276">Arun Jaitley's mortal remains</a> is being taken to BJP headquarters on Sunday.

Several BJP leaders accompanied the convoy carrying Jaitley's mortal remains in a military vehicle decked with flowers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-politicians-arrive-at-jaitleys-residence-to-pay-tribute-last-rites-to-take-place-tomorrow-at-nigambodh-ghat-245311">Jaitley's last rites</a> will be held later today with full state honours at Delhi's Nigambodth Ghat.

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released an official statement on Saturday to confirm the sad demise of the former union minister.

Jaitley's mortal remains were taken to his Kailash Colony residence in Delhi from AIIMS, Delhi.

Leaders, politicians thronged the BJP's veteran's residence to pay their last respects.&nbsp;

Condoling the demise of Jaitley, Prime Minister Narendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-here-so-far-and-my-friend-has-gone-pm-modis-emotional-tribute-to-jaitley-in-bahrain-245387">Modi described him as a "political giant</a>, towering intellectual and legal luminary".

Jaitley held important portfolios during the first tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/last-rites-to-be-performed-today-as-arun-jaitley-aged-66-passes-away-on-saturday-245419/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;He was not keeping well for some time. After Modi government retained power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jaitley wrote to Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not take up any responsibility in the government due to his deteriorating health condition.

&nbsp;

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley's mortal remains is being taken to BJP headquarters on Sunday. Several BJP leaders accompanied the convoy carrying Jaitley's mortal remains in a military vehicle decked with flowers.

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley's mortal remains is being taken to BJP headquarters on Sunday. Several BJP leaders accompanied the convoy carrying Jaitley's mortal remains in a military vehicle decked with flowers. Jaitley's last rites will be held later today with full state honours at Delhi's Nigambodth Ghat. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released an official statement on Saturday to confirm the sad demise of the former union minister. Jaitley's mortal remains were taken to his Kailash Colony residence in Delhi from AIIMS, Delhi. Leaders, politicians thronged the BJP's veteran's residence to pay their last respects. Condoling the demise of Jaitley, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a "political giant, towering intellectual and legal luminary". Jaitley held important portfolios during the first tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government. He was not keeping well for some time. After Modi government retained power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jaitley wrote to Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not take up any responsibility in the government due to his deteriorating health condition.

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley's mortal remains being taken to BJP headquarters

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