Moving beyond the hydropower sector, India and Bhutan on Saturday agreed to explore new areas of bilateral cooperation including healthcare, education, science, and technology during Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-wouldnt-want-a-friend-like-bhutan-it-is-an-honour-to-be-part-of-its-development-pm-modi-in-thimpu-243651">Narendra Modi's visit to the Himalayan nation</a>.

"The fundamental basis of our relationship is the hydropower sector. But the two leaders agreed that we move to beyond the traditional sectors of cooperation to look at new areas, such as healthcare, education, science, and technology and therefore it was therefore agreed that we will maintain close contact, close liaison to see how we can encourage bilateral cooperation in these areas," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said.

Modi arrived in Bhutan on Saturday&nbsp;for an official-two-day visit aimed at further enhancing India's relations with its Himalayan neighbour.&nbsp;

The centrepiece of the day was the inauguration of the 720 megawatts (MW) Mangdechhu hydroelectric power project, along with the remote launching of the ISRO-built Ground Station for South Asian Satellite.

Later in the day, Modi held talks with his Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering, during which the entire gamut of bilateral relations between the two countries was discussed. The joint press briefing by the two leaders highlighted the importance India and Bhutan attach to their relations.

Nine Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and one power purchase agreement were exchanged between India and Bhutan in the presence of Modi and his Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering at Semtokha Dzong.

Watch: Prime Minister Modi launches RuPay Card in Bhutan by making purchase

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/prime-minister-modi-launches-rupay-card-in-bhutan-by-making-purchase-243653/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"A number of very important MoUs were signed. Just a short while ago, the Prime Minister also met the fourth King of Bhutan. As you know, the fourth King has steered relations with India for many years, when he was the King of Bhutan. He continues to be interested in the relationship and continues to invest in it. The meeting was cordial and positive," Gokhale said.

Gokhale highlighted the three pillars of the Indo-Bhutanese relations that have emerged during Modi`s meetings with Bhutanese leaders: The enduring nature of Indo-Bhutanese partnership; the expanding cooperation in the areas beyond the traditional sectors; and the cultivation of connection between the youths of India and Bhutan.&nbsp;

Moving beyond the hydropower sector, India and Bhutan on Saturday agreed to explore new areas of bilateral cooperation including healthcare, education, science, and technology during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Himalayan nation.

Moving beyond the hydropower sector, India and Bhutan on Saturday agreed to explore new areas of bilateral cooperation including healthcare, education, science, and technology during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Himalayan nation. "The fundamental basis of our relationship is the hydropower sector. But the two leaders agreed that we move to beyond the traditional sectors of cooperation to look at new areas, such as healthcare, education, science, and technology and therefore it was therefore agreed that we will maintain close contact, close liaison to see how we can encourage bilateral cooperation in these areas," Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said. Modi arrived in Bhutan on Saturday for an official-two-day visit aimed at further enhancing India's relations with its Himalayan neighbour. The centrepiece of the day was the inauguration of the 720 megawatts (MW) Mangdechhu hydroelectric power project, along with the remote launching of the ISRO-built Ground Station for South Asian Satellite. Later in the day, Modi held talks with his Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering, during which the entire gamut of bilateral relations between the two countries was discussed. The joint press briefing by the two leaders highlighted the importance India and Bhutan attach to their relations. Nine Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and one power purchase agreement were exchanged between India and Bhutan in the presence of Modi and his Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering at Semtokha Dzong. Watch: Prime Minister Modi launches RuPay Card in Bhutan by making purchase "A number of very important MoUs were signed. Just a short while ago, the Prime Minister also met the fourth King of Bhutan. As you know, the fourth King has steered relations with India for many years, when he was the King of Bhutan. He continues to be interested in the relationship and continues to invest in it. The meeting was cordial and positive," Gokhale said. Gokhale highlighted the three pillars of the Indo-Bhutanese relations that have emerged during Modi`s meetings with Bhutanese leaders: The enduring nature of Indo-Bhutanese partnership; the expanding cooperation in the areas beyond the traditional sectors; and the cultivation of connection between the youths of India and Bhutan.

PM Modi, Bhutan's Lotay Tshering to look at new areas, such as healthcare & education: Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale

Doklam, RuPay card, Mangdechhu hydropower in focus as Modi lands in Bhutan

Perhaps for the first time, the flag-hoisting on Independence Day at the historic Rashtrapati Nivas, formerly Viceregal Lodge, Shimla, reverberated with cries of not just of “Jai Hind” but also of “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” It was a moving and memorable occasion, especially for me, who hoisted the tricolour as Director of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. It was our second President, Dr S Radhakrishnan who donated part of the presidential estate to start this Institute in 1965. The flag-hoisting this year was even more special because the national anthem was played by the bagpipers of the 22nd Rajputs, stationed in Jutogh Cantonment.&nbsp;

India celebrates many festivals throughout the year. Earlier this week, we observed Eid-ul-Zuha or Eid-ul-Adha, better known as Bakrid. This year, August 15 also coincided with Raksha Bandhan. But of all these festivals, Bharat Parva or Independence Day is perhaps the most important. That is because, after centuries of slavery, we became free. It was one of the greatest struggles in human history against what was possibly the world’s most powerful empire. The deeper significance of birthdays was explained by Mira Alfassa, better known as the Mother in Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Puducherry. “Yes, it is truly a special day,” she remarked to a sadhak (spiritual practitioner) who had gone to receive her blessings on the occasion, “It is one of those days in the year when the Supreme descends into us…when our soul comes in contact with the eternal….” For India, what does August 15, which was our nation’s 73rd birthday, signify?

As it happens, it was also the birthday of Sri Aurobindo. In his famous Independence Day speech, broadcast on &nbsp;August 14, 1947 from All India Radio, Thiruchirapalli, Sri Aurobindo outlined his “five dreams.” Two of these, “a revolutionary movement which would create a free and united India” and “the resurgence and liberation of the peoples of Asia and her return to her great role in the progress of human civilisation” were already accomplished, albeit in part. As Aurobindo himself noted, “India today is free but she has not achieved unity… But by whatever means, in whatever way, the division must go; unity must and will be achieved, for it is necessary for the greatness of India’s future.”&nbsp;

“A world-union forming the outer basis of a fairer, brighter and nobler life for all mankind” was his third dream. Finally, Sri Aurobindo wanted “the spiritual gift of India” to spread all over the world, a process he believed had “already begun.” His final dream “was a step in evolution which would raise man to a higher and larger consciousness and begin the solution of the problems which have perplexed and vexed him since he first began to think and to dream of individual perfection and a perfect society.” This is the most profound, demanding, and testing of the five dreams. We must transform ourselves — or face mass extinction.&nbsp;

When we look at independent India’s report card, it becomes increasingly obvious that a massive and magnificent spiritual resurgence was the moving force behind the country’s freedom struggle that ultimately led to our independence. Writing some 125 years ago, Swami Vivekananda explained this hidden truth quite succinctly: “Here in this blessed land, the foundation, the backbone, the life-centre is religion and religion alone. In India, religious life forms the centre, the keynote of the whole music of the nation.” Similarly, Sri Aurobindo summed up the importance of dharma in our lives: “When it is said that India shall be great, it is the Sanatan Dharma that shall be great.

… It is for the Dharma and by the Dharma that India exists.” Of course, it needs to be stressed that by Sanatan Dharma, Sri Aurobindo meant the eternal, universal religion, not any particular sect or creed: “If a religion is not universal, it cannot be eternal. A narrow religion can live only for a limited time and a limited purpose.” &nbsp;

The “naked fakir,” whose 150th anniversary we are also commemorating, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also said that “the dream of every Indian...should be...to spiritualise the political life of the country and the political institutions of the country.” In today’s times, unity, strength, and integral progress should be our national priorities. Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, India has a unique and unprecedented opportunity to realise its deepest civilisational and spiritual goals, as also play its destined role on the world stage. As Swami Vivekananda reminded us, “The Indian nation cannot be killed. Deathless it stands, and it will stand so long as … her people do not give up their spirituality.” Which is why the flag-hoisting this year concluded with cheers of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.”

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-spiritual-significance-of-independence-day-2782389">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Perhaps for the first time, the flag-hoisting on Independence Day at the historic Rashtrapati Nivas, formerly Viceregal Lodge, Shimla, reverberated with cries of not just of “Jai Hind” but also of “Bharat Mata ki Jai.

Perhaps for the first time, the flag-hoisting on Independence Day at the historic Rashtrapati Nivas, formerly Viceregal Lodge, Shimla, reverberated with cries of not just of “Jai Hind” but also of “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” It was a moving and memorable occasion, especially for me, who hoisted the tricolour as Director of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. It was our second President, Dr S Radhakrishnan who donated part of the presidential estate to start this Institute in 1965. The flag-hoisting this year was even more special because the national anthem was played by the bagpipers of the 22nd Rajputs, stationed in Jutogh Cantonment. India celebrates many festivals throughout the year. Earlier this week, we observed Eid-ul-Zuha or Eid-ul-Adha, better known as Bakrid. This year, August 15 also coincided with Raksha Bandhan. But of all these festivals, Bharat Parva or Independence Day is perhaps the most important. That is because, after centuries of slavery, we became free. It was one of the greatest struggles in human history against what was possibly the world’s most powerful empire. The deeper significance of birthdays was explained by Mira Alfassa, better known as the Mother in Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Puducherry. “Yes, it is truly a special day,” she remarked to a sadhak (spiritual practitioner) who had gone to receive her blessings on the occasion, “It is one of those days in the year when the Supreme descends into us…when our soul comes in contact with the eternal….” For India, what does August 15, which was our nation’s 73rd birthday, signify? As it happens, it was also the birthday of Sri Aurobindo. In his famous Independence Day speech, broadcast on August 14, 1947 from All India Radio, Thiruchirapalli, Sri Aurobindo outlined his “five dreams.” Two of these, “a revolutionary movement which would create a free and united India” and “the resurgence and liberation of the peoples of Asia and her return to her great role in the progress of human civilisation” were already accomplished, albeit in part. As Aurobindo himself noted, “India today is free but she has not achieved unity… But by whatever means, in whatever way, the division must go; unity must and will be achieved, for it is necessary for the greatness of India’s future.” “A world-union forming the outer basis of a fairer, brighter and nobler life for all mankind” was his third dream. Finally, Sri Aurobindo wanted “the spiritual gift of India” to spread all over the world, a process he believed had “already begun.” His final dream “was a step in evolution which would raise man to a higher and larger consciousness and begin the solution of the problems which have perplexed and vexed him since he first began to think and to dream of individual perfection and a perfect society.” This is the most profound, demanding, and testing of the five dreams. We must transform ourselves — or face mass extinction. When we look at independent India’s report card, it becomes increasingly obvious that a massive and magnificent spiritual resurgence was the moving force behind the country’s freedom struggle that ultimately led to our independence. Writing some 125 years ago, Swami Vivekananda explained this hidden truth quite succinctly: “Here in this blessed land, the foundation, the backbone, the life-centre is religion and religion alone. In India, religious life forms the centre, the keynote of the whole music of the nation.” Similarly, Sri Aurobindo summed up the importance of dharma in our lives: “When it is said that India shall be great, it is the Sanatan Dharma that shall be great. … It is for the Dharma and by the Dharma that India exists.” Of course, it needs to be stressed that by Sanatan Dharma, Sri Aurobindo meant the eternal, universal religion, not any particular sect or creed: “If a religion is not universal, it cannot be eternal. A narrow religion can live only for a limited time and a limited purpose.” The “naked fakir,” whose 150th anniversary we are also commemorating, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also said that “the dream of every Indian...should be...to spiritualise the political life of the country and the political institutions of the country.” In today’s times, unity, strength, and integral progress should be our national priorities. Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, India has a unique and unprecedented opportunity to realise its deepest civilisational and spiritual goals, as also play its destined role on the world stage. As Swami Vivekananda reminded us, “The Indian nation cannot be killed. Deathless it stands, and it will stand so long as … her people do not give up their spirituality.” Which is why the flag-hoisting this year concluded with cheers of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” (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.)

Spiritual significance of Independence Day

PM Modi continues turban tradition for his Independence Day address

India celebrates 73rd Independence Day

Pakistan has made yet another desperate attempt to internationalise the scrapping of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bringing-down-article-370-wall-the-battle-to-contain-jihad-in-jammu-kashmir-has-just-begun-242339">Article 370</a> in Jammu and Kashmir by India. In his Independence Day address to the nation, Pakistan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/a-look-at-pakistans-new-president-arif-alvis-india-connect-163703">Arif-ur-Rehman Alvi </a>has called for waging<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/dont-talk-to-pakistan-until-it-dismantles-terror-facilities-236028"> jihad against India.</a> 
&nbsp; 
"We are a peace-loving country, we don't war. But if war is imposed on us by India then it will not be limited between the two countries. The whole world will get affected by it and then only Jihad and akhirat (doomsday) will be left as an option for us," Alvi said. 
&nbsp; 
He also appealed to his countrymen to use social media to raise the Kashmir issue. 
&nbsp; 
This comes a day after Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday asked Pakistanis to not live in a "fool's paradise" by expecting United Nations Security Council to "wait with garlands" to support Islamabad's contentions regarding India's decision to abrogate Kashmir's special status. 
&nbsp; 
Pakistan has been desperately trying to internationalise the issue but United Nations Security Council (UNSC) asked Pakistan and India to address the issue bilaterally. 
&nbsp; 
On August 5, the Narendra Modi-led government ended the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir by scrapping Articles 370 and 35A of the Indian Constitution. Home Minister Amit Shah presented the bill to this regard in the Upper House of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), which easily sailed through, and subsequently got the nod from the Lower House of Lok Sabha too. 
&nbsp; 
The international community has stood behind India after the decision. The Maldives, United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Bhutan have called it an internal matter of India. 
&nbsp; 
Pakistan, on its part, has downgraded bilateral ties with India and suspended all bilateral trade activities, communication, and railways, which facilitated people-to-people ties between each other.

Pakistan has made yet another desperate attempt to internationalise the scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir by India. In his Independence Day address to the nation, Pakistan President Arif-ur-Rehman Alvi has called for waging jihad against India.

Pakistan has made yet another desperate attempt to internationalise the scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir by India. In his Independence Day address to the nation, Pakistan President Arif-ur-Rehman Alvi has called for waging jihad against India. "We are a peace-loving country, we don't war. But if war is imposed on us by India then it will not be limited between the two countries. The whole world will get affected by it and then only Jihad and akhirat (doomsday) will be left as an option for us," Alvi said. He also appealed to his countrymen to use social media to raise the Kashmir issue. This comes a day after Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday asked Pakistanis to not live in a "fool's paradise" by expecting United Nations Security Council to "wait with garlands" to support Islamabad's contentions regarding India's decision to abrogate Kashmir's special status. Pakistan has been desperately trying to internationalise the issue but United Nations Security Council (UNSC) asked Pakistan and India to address the issue bilaterally. On August 5, the Narendra Modi-led government ended the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir by scrapping Articles 370 and 35A of the Indian Constitution. Home Minister Amit Shah presented the bill to this regard in the Upper House of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), which easily sailed through, and subsequently got the nod from the Lower House of Lok Sabha too. The international community has stood behind India after the decision. The Maldives, United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Bhutan have called it an internal matter of India. Pakistan, on its part, has downgraded bilateral ties with India and suspended all bilateral trade activities, communication, and railways, which facilitated people-to-people ties between each other.

Pakistan's warmongering over scrapping of Article 370, President Alvi calls for jihad against India

While scrapping Article 370 means different things to different people, there’s no denying that things will never be the same again. The status quo has been changed.&nbsp;

A strong government has called Pakistan’s nuclear bluff while launching surgical strikes in Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) in 2016 and aerial strikes in Balakot this year.&nbsp;

It is important to see these developments from the prism of security. Despite barriers created by Article 370, some provisions did exist for investment from companies from outside the state, but when India’s growth story was taking a leap in the 1990s, the security situation in J&amp;K was bad enough to scare away the most stout-hearted.&nbsp;

Meeting the growth aspirations of the youth needs private sector participation as the government and public sector are not enough. Any number of incentives cannot help bring in investment if there is no peace in the Kashmir Valley. Therefore, it does boil down to providing a safe and secure environment to foster development. &nbsp;

Purely from a security perspective, whittling down of Article 370 in J&amp;K is a welcome step. Security concerns can be addressed better than before, without local pressures.

What are the security implications now? The UN response has been cautious, while making expected diplomatic observations. The US and most other countries have, by and large, taken a stand that it is an internal matter and differences, if any, must be resolved through dialogue peacefully.&nbsp;

What is more important here is the response and attitude of our immediate neighbours, whose territories run contiguous with J&amp;K and Ladakh.

China has somewhat diplomatically, asked India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, saying they should avoid actions that “unilaterally” change the status quo and exacerbate tensions between them, even as it voiced “serious concern” over the situation in Kashmir.&nbsp;

Beijing has, however, expressed its opposition to India’s move to create a separate Union Territory of Ladakh. There has been an exchange of statements and counter statements, but their attitude stops short of being belligerent.&nbsp;

De-hyphenating Ladakh from J&amp;K has its parallel in change of status of Gilgit-Baltistan vis-à-vis Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK). Sino-Indian dialogues that include Tibet, Taiwan and Xinjiang will now have Ladakh added on.&nbsp;

The moves seem to have taken Pakistan completely by surprise, putting it at a loss for a suitable response. But Islamabad has no choice. It has to express solidarity with Kashmir as it’s the glue that binds their country together and enshrines the importance of the Pakistan Army. &nbsp;

Despite an encouraging dole from the US last month, Pakistan is in a tight spot at this point of time to consider the option of an all-out war. The FATF re-categorisation comes up for renewal in October and its economy is precariously placed for any misadventure. The world reaction, too, &nbsp;has been muted.&nbsp;

So, what other options do Pakistan have after diplomatic steps have been taken, air flights and train services suspended and trade sanctions imposed? &nbsp;

First, Pakistan can increase the heat on the LoC in both genres - cross-border firing and attempt pushing in more terrorists into the valley. Second, they can engineer an increase in terrorist activities in the hinterland. Third, they can encourage local stone-pelters to step up their agitational dynamics to protest against this reorganisation of the state.&nbsp;

The Indian Army grid on the LoC and security forces deployment in the hinterland is fully geared to meet these contingencies, more so with recent reinforcements. A unified command structure without any interference from local pressures will strengthen the Indian hand greatly.&nbsp;

Political resentment is likely to lead to spilling of anger on the streets in the form of protests and agitations. Some of these may turn violent and lead to stone-pelting. The security forces have to handle this firmly, yet with the sensitivity that it deserves. It cannot be allowed to spin out of control.

However strong our posture on the LoC and comprehensive security grid in the hinterland is, there could always be that small chance of a lone-wolf attack, or one fanatic suicidal terrorist who can create a ‘Pulwama’, pushing India into operational brinkmanship again.&nbsp;

It is, therefore, necessary to retain a stated and bold offensive punitive response option to deter any misadventure, as Pakistan has started appealing to terrorist groups to express solidarity with their Kashmiri brethren.&nbsp;

Information and psychological warfare is another dimension of security that merits mention here. We have had our shortcomings in building up a good narrative so far, a space which has ben quickly filled up by the other side, with its hate narrative.&nbsp;

This is our chance to reverse it. Since there has been no explicit consultative process before scrapping Article 370, the state must build a good, robust, factual narrative and take it to the people in every way possible. This strategic communication is needed to dispel uncertainty and the fear of the future in the minds of the people, creating hope instead. It is important to use the narrative to counter alienation and radicalisation as well. We must get back into the mind space of the youth, as they are the key to integration.

Now that J&amp;K is a Union territory, to be administered in significant part by the Centre, the central government must ensure that this change leads to a better state in all aspects, taking the people together. This will not be easy, but is not insurmountable.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-hobson-s-choice-for-pakistan-2781549">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

While scrapping Article 370 means different things to different people, there’s no denying that things will never be the same again. The status quo has been changed.

While scrapping Article 370 means different things to different people, there’s no denying that things will never be the same again. The status quo has been changed. A strong government has called Pakistan’s nuclear bluff while launching surgical strikes in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in 2016 and aerial strikes in Balakot this year. It is important to see these developments from the prism of security. Despite barriers created by Article 370, some provisions did exist for investment from companies from outside the state, but when India’s growth story was taking a leap in the 1990s, the security situation in J&K was bad enough to scare away the most stout-hearted. Meeting the growth aspirations of the youth needs private sector participation as the government and public sector are not enough. Any number of incentives cannot help bring in investment if there is no peace in the Kashmir Valley. Therefore, it does boil down to providing a safe and secure environment to foster development. Purely from a security perspective, whittling down of Article 370 in J&K is a welcome step. Security concerns can be addressed better than before, without local pressures. What are the security implications now? The UN response has been cautious, while making expected diplomatic observations. The US and most other countries have, by and large, taken a stand that it is an internal matter and differences, if any, must be resolved through dialogue peacefully. What is more important here is the response and attitude of our immediate neighbours, whose territories run contiguous with J&K and Ladakh. China has somewhat diplomatically, asked India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, saying they should avoid actions that “unilaterally” change the status quo and exacerbate tensions between them, even as it voiced “serious concern” over the situation in Kashmir. Beijing has, however, expressed its opposition to India’s move to create a separate Union Territory of Ladakh. There has been an exchange of statements and counter statements, but their attitude stops short of being belligerent. De-hyphenating Ladakh from J&K has its parallel in change of status of Gilgit-Baltistan vis-à-vis Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK). Sino-Indian dialogues that include Tibet, Taiwan and Xinjiang will now have Ladakh added on. The moves seem to have taken Pakistan completely by surprise, putting it at a loss for a suitable response. But Islamabad has no choice. It has to express solidarity with Kashmir as it’s the glue that binds their country together and enshrines the importance of the Pakistan Army. Despite an encouraging dole from the US last month, Pakistan is in a tight spot at this point of time to consider the option of an all-out war. The FATF re-categorisation comes up for renewal in October and its economy is precariously placed for any misadventure. The world reaction, too, has been muted. So, what other options do Pakistan have after diplomatic steps have been taken, air flights and train services suspended and trade sanctions imposed? First, Pakistan can increase the heat on the LoC in both genres - cross-border firing and attempt pushing in more terrorists into the valley. Second, they can engineer an increase in terrorist activities in the hinterland. Third, they can encourage local stone-pelters to step up their agitational dynamics to protest against this reorganisation of the state. The Indian Army grid on the LoC and security forces deployment in the hinterland is fully geared to meet these contingencies, more so with recent reinforcements. A unified command structure without any interference from local pressures will strengthen the Indian hand greatly. Political resentment is likely to lead to spilling of anger on the streets in the form of protests and agitations. Some of these may turn violent and lead to stone-pelting. The security forces have to handle this firmly, yet with the sensitivity that it deserves. It cannot be allowed to spin out of control. However strong our posture on the LoC and comprehensive security grid in the hinterland is, there could always be that small chance of a lone-wolf attack, or one fanatic suicidal terrorist who can create a ‘Pulwama’, pushing India into operational brinkmanship again. It is, therefore, necessary to retain a stated and bold offensive punitive response option to deter any misadventure, as Pakistan has started appealing to terrorist groups to express solidarity with their Kashmiri brethren. Information and psychological warfare is another dimension of security that merits mention here. We have had our shortcomings in building up a good narrative so far, a space which has ben quickly filled up by the other side, with its hate narrative. This is our chance to reverse it. Since there has been no explicit consultative process before scrapping Article 370, the state must build a good, robust, factual narrative and take it to the people in every way possible. This strategic communication is needed to dispel uncertainty and the fear of the future in the minds of the people, creating hope instead. It is important to use the narrative to counter alienation and radicalisation as well. We must get back into the mind space of the youth, as they are the key to integration. Now that J&K is a Union territory, to be administered in significant part by the Centre, the central government must ensure that this change leads to a better state in all aspects, taking the people together. This will not be easy, but is not insurmountable. (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.)

Article 370 abrogation in Jammu and Kashmir puts Pakistan in a tight spot

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that there cannot be a bigger inspiration for the young Bharatiya Janata Party workers than the late Sushma Swaraj.

Modi was speaking at a condolence meeting in memory of the late Union Minister Swaraj who passed away on August 6.

"She gave her all in whatever work she was assigned despite having accomplished so much in her personal life. There cannot be a bigger inspiration in life for the young BJP workers," Modi said.

Praising her work as the External Affairs Minister, PM Modi said that Swaraj transformed the Ministry`s protocols into "people`s call".

"She showed how "Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam" can be actualised by the External Affairs Ministry. She considered problems of Indians in foreign countries as her own. She brought a complete change in the character of the foreign ministry," he said.&nbsp;

"In the last 70 years, we had 77 passport offices in the country. And in her 5 years as EAM, we now have 505 passport offices, which shows the magnitude of her work," Modi added.

The Prime Minister also said that though he was older to Swaraj, he learnt a great deal from her.

Recounting an anecdote from the time he had just taken up as Prime Minister, Modi revealed how Swaraj did not let him speak extempore at the United Nations.

He said, "Before I was about to give my first speech at the UN, she asked me where my speech was and I said I`ll speak without writing it down. She strongly opposed the idea!"&nbsp;

"We prepared the speech overnight with her and the team. Later, she told me that no matter how great an orator you are, there are forums that have some decorums and practices which are important. This was the first lesson I learnt from her," Prime Minister Modi added.

Concluding his speech, Modi said, "We are all with her at this moment, may God give us the strength to walk on the same ideals that she did."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid his condolence to Swaraj, saying, "We will never forget her contribution till the day we die. Her voice will continue to reverberate inside the Parliament."

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP working President Jagat Prakash Nadda and other senior BJP leaders also paid their tributes to Swaraj at the condolence meet. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that there cannot be a bigger inspiration for the young Bharatiya Janata Party workers than the late Sushma Swaraj. Modi was speaking at a condolence meeting in memory of the late Union Minister Swaraj who passed away on August 6.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that there cannot be a bigger inspiration for the young Bharatiya Janata Party workers than the late Sushma Swaraj. Modi was speaking at a condolence meeting in memory of the late Union Minister Swaraj who passed away on August 6. "She gave her all in whatever work she was assigned despite having accomplished so much in her personal life. There cannot be a bigger inspiration in life for the young BJP workers," Modi said. Praising her work as the External Affairs Minister, PM Modi said that Swaraj transformed the Ministry`s protocols into "people`s call". "She showed how "Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam" can be actualised by the External Affairs Ministry. She considered problems of Indians in foreign countries as her own. She brought a complete change in the character of the foreign ministry," he said. "In the last 70 years, we had 77 passport offices in the country. And in her 5 years as EAM, we now have 505 passport offices, which shows the magnitude of her work," Modi added. The Prime Minister also said that though he was older to Swaraj, he learnt a great deal from her. Recounting an anecdote from the time he had just taken up as Prime Minister, Modi revealed how Swaraj did not let him speak extempore at the United Nations. He said, "Before I was about to give my first speech at the UN, she asked me where my speech was and I said I`ll speak without writing it down. She strongly opposed the idea!" "We prepared the speech overnight with her and the team. Later, she told me that no matter how great an orator you are, there are forums that have some decorums and practices which are important. This was the first lesson I learnt from her," Prime Minister Modi added. Concluding his speech, Modi said, "We are all with her at this moment, may God give us the strength to walk on the same ideals that she did." Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid his condolence to Swaraj, saying, "We will never forget her contribution till the day we die. Her voice will continue to reverberate inside the Parliament." Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP working President Jagat Prakash Nadda and other senior BJP leaders also paid their tributes to Swaraj at the condolence meet.

No bigger inspiration than Sushma Swaraj for young party workers: PM Modi

India's domestic passenger vehicle sales in July dived at the steepest pace in nearly two decades, an auto industry body said on Tuesday, as a financing crunch deepened a crisis in the country's autos sector and triggered large-scale job losses.

Sales of passenger vehicles to car dealers plunged 30.9% to 200,790 in July, the ninth straight month of declines, data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) showed.

The drop in sales is the worst since December 2000, when the industry sold a fifth of the vehicles it sells currently.

The crisis in the autos sector presents a major problem for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, just as he begins his second term in office, as the sector accounts for nearly half of India's manufacturing output.&nbsp;

The auto industry employs over 35 million people directly and indirectly.

"If this industry goes down, then everything gets hurt. Manufacturing, jobs and revenue to the government," Vishnu Mathur, director general, SIAM, told reporters on Tuesday, adding that car and motorcycle manufacturers have already slashed about 15,000 jobs.

The pace of decline has accelerated in recent months, as a liquidity crunch in India's shadow banking sector has dried up lines of credit to both auto dealers and potential car buyers.

Reuters reported last week that companies in the sector - which includes manufacturers, auto parts makers and dealerships - have so far cut as many as 350,000 jobs.

The Indian unit of German auto parts maker Bosch Ltd told Indian exchanges on Tuesday it would restructure its operations and adjust workforce in the light of a sector slowdown.

India's jobless rate climbed to 7.51% in July from 5.66% a year earlier, according to private data group CMIE.

The latest auto sales figures imply that India's GDP growth that has already slid to a near five-year low, is likely to show signs of further erosion for April-June when fresh data will be released later this month.

The downturn - regarded by industry executives as the worst ever suffered by the Indian auto industry - has already sent the S&amp;P BSE auto sector index tumbling more than 23% this year, while shares of the country's top carmaker Maruti Suzuki have slumped more than 20% since the beginning of 2019.

The domestic autos industry asked for tax breaks and easier access to finance for dealers and buyers at a meet with Indian government officials last week.

"The data shows an urgent need for a revival package from the government. The industry is doing everything possible to increase sales, but it needs government support to prevent the crisis from worsening," Mathur told reporters in New Delhi.

Motorcycle and scooters sales fell 16.8% to about 1.51 million units, while passenger car sales dived 36% to 122,956 units, the data showed.&nbsp;

Commercial vehicles sales plunged 25.7% to 56,866 units, SIAM said.

The data also showed that domestic passenger vehicle production was down nearly 17% in the month.

"We are hopeful of a revival package soon," Mathur said.

India's domestic passenger vehicle sales in July dived at the steepest pace in nearly two decades, an auto industry body said on Tuesday, as a financing crunch deepened a crisis in the country's autos sector and triggered large-scale job losses.

India's domestic passenger vehicle sales in July dived at the steepest pace in nearly two decades, an auto industry body said on Tuesday, as a financing crunch deepened a crisis in the country's autos sector and triggered large-scale job losses. Sales of passenger vehicles to car dealers plunged 30.9% to 200,790 in July, the ninth straight month of declines, data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) showed. The drop in sales is the worst since December 2000, when the industry sold a fifth of the vehicles it sells currently. The crisis in the autos sector presents a major problem for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government, just as he begins his second term in office, as the sector accounts for nearly half of India's manufacturing output. The auto industry employs over 35 million people directly and indirectly. "If this industry goes down, then everything gets hurt. Manufacturing, jobs and revenue to the government," Vishnu Mathur, director general, SIAM, told reporters on Tuesday, adding that car and motorcycle manufacturers have already slashed about 15,000 jobs. The pace of decline has accelerated in recent months, as a liquidity crunch in India's shadow banking sector has dried up lines of credit to both auto dealers and potential car buyers. Reuters reported last week that companies in the sector - which includes manufacturers, auto parts makers and dealerships - have so far cut as many as 350,000 jobs. The Indian unit of German auto parts maker Bosch Ltd told Indian exchanges on Tuesday it would restructure its operations and adjust workforce in the light of a sector slowdown. India's jobless rate climbed to 7.51% in July from 5.66% a year earlier, according to private data group CMIE. The latest auto sales figures imply that India's GDP growth that has already slid to a near five-year low, is likely to show signs of further erosion for April-June when fresh data will be released later this month. The downturn - regarded by industry executives as the worst ever suffered by the Indian auto industry - has already sent the S&P BSE auto sector index tumbling more than 23% this year, while shares of the country's top carmaker Maruti Suzuki have slumped more than 20% since the beginning of 2019. The domestic autos industry asked for tax breaks and easier access to finance for dealers and buyers at a meet with Indian government officials last week. "The data shows an urgent need for a revival package from the government. The industry is doing everything possible to increase sales, but it needs government support to prevent the crisis from worsening," Mathur told reporters in New Delhi. Motorcycle and scooters sales fell 16.8% to about 1.51 million units, while passenger car sales dived 36% to 122,956 units, the data showed. Commercial vehicles sales plunged 25.7% to 56,866 units, SIAM said. The data also showed that domestic passenger vehicle production was down nearly 17% in the month. "We are hopeful of a revival package soon," Mathur said.

India's passenger vehicle sales drop at steepest pace in nearly two decades

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday organised a condolence meet to pay tribute to former External Affair Minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-final-rites-sushma-swarajs-mortal-remains-moved-to-bjp-headquarters-241315">BJP leader Sushma Swaraj</a>.

The meet was organised at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-pm-modi-bids-emotional-farewell-to-sushma-swaraj-241293">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and many other senior cabinet ministers and BJP leaders arrived to pay their respects.

Several other diplomats and leaders across the political spectrum are also expected to attend the event.

Watch:&nbsp;The remarkable political journey of Sushma Swaraj

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-remarkable-political-journey-of-sushma-swaraj-241414/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-former-external-affairs-minister-passes-away-at-age-67-241220">Swaraj passed away</a> on the night of August 6 following a cardiac arrest.

Thousands bid adieu to their beloved leader as she was cremated with full state honours.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday organised a condolence meet to pay tribute to former External Affair Minister and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj. The meet was organised at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday organised a condolence meet to pay tribute to former External Affair Minister and BJP leader Sushma Swaraj. The meet was organised at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and many other senior cabinet ministers and BJP leaders arrived to pay their respects. Several other diplomats and leaders across the political spectrum are also expected to attend the event. Watch: The remarkable political journey of Sushma Swaraj Swaraj passed away on the night of August 6 following a cardiac arrest. Thousands bid adieu to their beloved leader as she was cremated with full state honours.

BJP organises condolence meet for former foreign minister Sushma Swaraj

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Tuesday downplayed Pakistan ramping up&nbsp;troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of abrogation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772">Article 370</a>.

General Rawat said that&nbsp;India was prepared to deal with any provocation by Islamabad. "If the adversary wants to activate the LoC, that's his choice. Everybody does precautionary deployment, we should not get too concerned about it. As far as the Army and other services are concerned, we have to be always prepared," he said.

He further said that the Army is committed to maintain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-government-needs-time-to-bring-back-normalcy-in-jammu-and-kashmir-says-supreme-court-242715">cordial relations </a>with the general public in the Union Territory. "One should know how the Army and the common public used to live together in Jammu and Kashmir in the 70s and 80s. We used to meet without guns and if everything stays normal we will once again go back to having that relationship," news agency ANI quoted General Bipin Rawat.

Centre last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

<a href="We used to meet without guns and if everything stays normal we will once again go back to having that relationship,&quot; Rawat said. ">Pakistan</a> has downgraded diplomatic ties and suspended bilateral trade with India in the wake of revocation of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, calling its steps in Jammu and Kashmir an 'entirely internal affair', India has rejected Pakistan's unilateral move to downgrade diplomatic ties and asked Islamabad to review the decision so that normal channels for diplomatic communications are preserved.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Tuesday downplayed Pakistan ramping up troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of abrogation of Article 370.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Tuesday downplayed Pakistan ramping up troops along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of abrogation of Article 370. General Rawat said that India was prepared to deal with any provocation by Islamabad. "If the adversary wants to activate the LoC, that's his choice. Everybody does precautionary deployment, we should not get too concerned about it. As far as the Army and other services are concerned, we have to be always prepared," he said. He further said that the Army is committed to maintain cordial relations with the general public in the Union Territory. "One should know how the Army and the common public used to live together in Jammu and Kashmir in the 70s and 80s. We used to meet without guns and if everything stays normal we will once again go back to having that relationship," news agency ANI quoted General Bipin Rawat. Centre last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Pakistan has downgraded diplomatic ties and suspended bilateral trade with India in the wake of revocation of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Meanwhile, calling its steps in Jammu and Kashmir an 'entirely internal affair', India has rejected Pakistan's unilateral move to downgrade diplomatic ties and asked Islamabad to review the decision so that normal channels for diplomatic communications are preserved. (With inputs from agencies)

If everything stays normal, we will meet people of Jammu and Kashmir without guns, says Army Chief General Bipin Rawat

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday expressed honour and pleasure to people of his Lok Sabha constituency for displaying 'bravery and dignity' when Kerala is facing the wrath of nature.

&nbsp;Gandhi, who was on a two-day visit to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rain-fury-in-kerala-over-20-dead-in-two-days-wayanad-district-worst-hit-241641">state affected by torrential rainfall,</a> floods and landslides, tweeted, "I left Wayanad with nothing but pride for the people I represent. The display of bravery and dignity in the face of immense tragedy is truly humbling. It is such an honour and pleasure to be your MP. Thank you Kerala."

During his two-day visit in the district, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-around-30000-evacuated-to-relief-camps-in-wayanad-242076">Gandhi took stock of areas</a> affected by the deluge.

He also asked the District Collector to expedite efforts to recover the bodies of those missing in the landslide in Puthumala.

The Congress leader also apprised Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the flood situation and sought the Centre's support to deal with the situations.

Eighty-eight people have died across 14 districts of flood-battered Kerala while 40 are missing, authorities said on Tuesday.

As per official data recorded till 9 am today, 34 people have sustained injuries in the natural calamity.

Torrential rains over the last few days in the state have led to many deaths and caused landslides in some districts.

Malappuram is the worst hit with the highest death toll of 29. As many as 1,332 relief camps are currently operational in the state.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted 'cloudy sky with a few spells of rain or thundershowers' for the next five days in the state. 
Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in several areas across the state in past few days with daily lives of residents taking a hit.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday expressed honour and pleasure to people of his Lok Sabha constituency for displaying 'bravery and dignity' when Kerala is facing the wrath of nature.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday expressed honour and pleasure to people of his Lok Sabha constituency for displaying 'bravery and dignity' when Kerala is facing the wrath of nature. Gandhi, who was on a two-day visit to the state affected by torrential rainfall, floods and landslides, tweeted, "I left Wayanad with nothing but pride for the people I represent. The display of bravery and dignity in the face of immense tragedy is truly humbling. It is such an honour and pleasure to be your MP. Thank you Kerala." During his two-day visit in the district, Gandhi took stock of areas affected by the deluge. He also asked the District Collector to expedite efforts to recover the bodies of those missing in the landslide in Puthumala. The Congress leader also apprised Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the flood situation and sought the Centre's support to deal with the situations. Eighty-eight people have died across 14 districts of flood-battered Kerala while 40 are missing, authorities said on Tuesday. As per official data recorded till 9 am today, 34 people have sustained injuries in the natural calamity. Torrential rains over the last few days in the state have led to many deaths and caused landslides in some districts. Malappuram is the worst hit with the highest death toll of 29. As many as 1,332 relief camps are currently operational in the state. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted 'cloudy sky with a few spells of rain or thundershowers' for the next five days in the state. Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in several areas across the state in past few days with daily lives of residents taking a hit.

Honoured to be Wayanad MP, Thank you Kerala: Rahul Gandhi

India's Reliance Industries Ltd is set to sell a 20% stake in its oil to chemicals business to Saudi Aramco in one of the largest foreign investments in the country, Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani said on Monday.

"(This is) the biggest foreign investment in the history of Reliance," Ambani said at the company's annual general meeting in India's financial capital Mumbai.

"It is also amongst the largest foreign investments ever in India."

The deal valued the business at $75 billion including debt, he said.

Saudi Aramco, the world's biggest oil producer, has been in talks with Reliance on the stake sale as it plans to secure new markets for its crude.

Saudi Aramco will also supply 500,000 barrels a day of crude oil on a long-term basis to RIL's Jamnagar refinery, Ambani said.

"This signifies perfect synergy between the world's largest oil producer and the world's largest integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex," he added.

The partnership will cover all of Reliance's refining and petrochemical assets, including its 51% stake in the petroleum retail joint venture, he said.

Last week, Reliance announced that it was forming a fuel retailing joint venture with global oil major BP in which Reliance would own a 51% stake.

India's Reliance Industries Ltd is set to sell a 20% stake in its oil to chemicals business to Saudi Aramco in one of the largest foreign investments in the country, Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani said on Monday.

India's Reliance Industries Ltd is set to sell a 20% stake in its oil to chemicals business to Saudi Aramco in one of the largest foreign investments in the country, Reliance Chairman Mukesh Ambani said on Monday. "(This is) the biggest foreign investment in the history of Reliance," Ambani said at the company's annual general meeting in India's financial capital Mumbai. "It is also amongst the largest foreign investments ever in India." The deal valued the business at $75 billion including debt, he said. Saudi Aramco, the world's biggest oil producer, has been in talks with Reliance on the stake sale as it plans to secure new markets for its crude. Saudi Aramco will also supply 500,000 barrels a day of crude oil on a long-term basis to RIL's Jamnagar refinery, Ambani said. "This signifies perfect synergy between the world's largest oil producer and the world's largest integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex," he added. The partnership will cover all of Reliance's refining and petrochemical assets, including its 51% stake in the petroleum retail joint venture, he said. Last week, Reliance announced that it was forming a fuel retailing joint venture with global oil major BP in which Reliance would own a 51% stake.

Reliance to sell 20% stake in oil to chemicals business to Saudi Aramco

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Bejing. The meeting took place at Diaoyutai guest house, which was once the residence of Chairman Mao Zedong but now used to receive foreign dignitaries.&nbsp;

Jaishankar is on a pre-scheduled visit to Beijing from August 11 to 13 and left for China on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The&nbsp;focus during the visit is on the second informal summit between&nbsp;PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year.&nbsp;

Post lunch, both the foreign ministers will later inaugurate the India China Media forum and make press statements as well.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
External Affairs Minister will co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM) along with his counterpart. The HLM aims to increase people-to-people ties and enhance engagement in areas such&nbsp;as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports.

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China: External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar meets Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi in Beijing. <a href="https://t.co/6RHgad285b">pic.twitter.com/6RHgad285b</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1160766401101144065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries", MEA in a statement said. 
&nbsp; 
The HLC was one of the key outcomes of the Wuhan informal meet and the first meet happened in Delhi in&nbsp;2018&nbsp;between Wang Yi and former external affairs minister S Jaishankar. 
&nbsp; 
Earlier in the day,&nbsp;External Affairs Minister called on Vice President of China&nbsp;Wang&nbsp;Qishan.

Ahead of the visit, India called China an important partner. Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said,&nbsp;"China is a very important partner. There are many channels available to us to discuss all bilateral&nbsp;issues"

Adding, "it is expected bilateral issues will come up for discussion. We will discuss the informal summit. We will also discuss how to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties."

India's prime minister met the Chinese President in Kyrgyzstan earlier this year on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation summit and last year both met each other four times starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan in April.

&nbsp;The visit of Indian foreign minister comes even as Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi went on an emergency visit to China to meet the Chinese FM in the backdrop of India's internal decision to change the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir.&nbsp;

Pakistani FM met Chinese FM on Friday and in a release, the Chinese foreign ministry said, "Pakistan and India are both China’s friendly neighbours and major developing countries that are in a crucial stage of development", and called on the "two sides to proceed&nbsp;from their national development and peace in South Asia".

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Bejing. The meeting took place at Diaoyutai guest house, which was once the residence of Chairman Mao Zedong but now used to receive foreign dignitaries.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday met Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Bejing. The meeting took place at Diaoyutai guest house, which was once the residence of Chairman Mao Zedong but now used to receive foreign dignitaries. Jaishankar is on a pre-scheduled visit to Beijing from August 11 to 13 and left for China on Sunday. The focus during the visit is on the second informal summit between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this year. Post lunch, both the foreign ministers will later inaugurate the India China Media forum and make press statements as well. External Affairs Minister will co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM) along with his counterpart. The HLM aims to increase people-to-people ties and enhance engagement in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports. China: External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar meets Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi in Beijing. pic.twitter.com/6RHgad285b — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2019 × "The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries", MEA in a statement said. The HLC was one of the key outcomes of the Wuhan informal meet and the first meet happened in Delhi in 2018 between Wang Yi and former external affairs minister S Jaishankar. Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister called on Vice President of China Wang Qishan. Ahead of the visit, India called China an important partner. Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said, "China is a very important partner. There are many channels available to us to discuss all bilateral issues" Adding, "it is expected bilateral issues will come up for discussion. We will discuss the informal summit. We will also discuss how to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties." India's prime minister met the Chinese President in Kyrgyzstan earlier this year on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation summit and last year both met each other four times starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan in April. The visit of Indian foreign minister comes even as Pakistani foreign minister SM Qureshi went on an emergency visit to China to meet the Chinese FM in the backdrop of India's internal decision to change the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani FM met Chinese FM on Friday and in a release, the Chinese foreign ministry said, "Pakistan and India are both China’s friendly neighbours and major developing countries that are in a crucial stage of development", and called on the "two sides to proceed from their national development and peace in South Asia".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in Beijing amid Article 370 row

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday met Deputy Prime Minister of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../russia-supported-india-on-jk-said-indias- decision-is-constitutional-241933"> Russia </a>Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with President Vladimir Putin next month.

"Met Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation in Russia's Far East Region, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji's&nbsp;meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin next month," Goyal said in a tweet.

Goyal also met Russia's Far East Minister Alexander Kozlov and the Governor of Primorye Oleg Kozhemyako to discuss investment, economic opportunities and trade.

"Attended the reception ceremony hosted by Russia's Far East Minister Mr Alexander Kozlov and the Governor of Primorye Mr Oleg Kozhemyako today. We discussed about investment in the Far East region leading to greater economic opportunities and trade between the two countries," he said in another tweet.

The Union Minister is leading a delegation of Chief Ministers - including Chief Ministers of Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh - an official from Assam and some business representatives to Vladivostok in Russian Far East from August 11 to August 13.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday met Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation between the two countries.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday met Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation between the two countries. The meeting comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with President Vladimir Putin next month. "Met Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation in Russia's Far East Region, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin next month," Goyal said in a tweet. Goyal also met Russia's Far East Minister Alexander Kozlov and the Governor of Primorye Oleg Kozhemyako to discuss investment, economic opportunities and trade. "Attended the reception ceremony hosted by Russia's Far East Minister Mr Alexander Kozlov and the Governor of Primorye Mr Oleg Kozhemyako today. We discussed about investment in the Far East region leading to greater economic opportunities and trade between the two countries," he said in another tweet. The Union Minister is leading a delegation of Chief Ministers - including Chief Ministers of Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh - an official from Assam and some business representatives to Vladivostok in Russian Far East from August 11 to August 13.

India's industry minister Piyush Goyal meets Russian Deputy PM to discuss areas of cooperation

Wrestler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-olympic-medal-my-ultimate-goal-wrestler-babita-phogat-133797">Babita Phogat</a> on Monday joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the presence of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju at party headquarters in Delhi.

Along with Babita, her father Mahavir Phogat, a Dronacharya Awardee, too joined the BJP. He was chief of the Jannayak Janata Party's sports cell, which was floated by former Hisar MP Dushyant Chautala.&nbsp;

Ace wrestler Babita Phogat won Silver medal at 21st edition of the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast. It was Phogat's third Commonwealth Games medal after winning silver and gold in Delhi (51kg) and Glasgow (55kg), respectively. 
 
Sisters Babita, Geeta and their father Mahavir Phogat inspired critically&nbsp;acclaimed movie <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-aamir-khan-didnt-want-to-play-older-character-post-dangal-rajkumar-hirani-141019">'Dangal'</a> starring Aamir Khan.

Phogats said that they are impressed with the policies and programmes of Narendra Modi-led BJP government and also praised Manohar Lal Khattar-led government in Haryana. 
 
Babita recently came out in support of the Haryana chief minister&nbsp;over his remark on Kashmiri women, saying there was nothing offensive in what he said. "Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has not made any such statement that is offensive to our sisters and daughters. I urge the media to not misinterpret his statement," she tweeted. 
&nbsp;

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हरियाणा के मुख्यमंत्री मनोहर लाल खट्टर जी ने ऐसा कोई बयान नहीं दिया है जिससे हमारी बहन बेटियों के बारे में गलत बोला गया हो मेरी मीडिया से प्रार्थना है कि उनके बयान को गलत तरीके से जनता के सामने पेश ना करें <a href="https://twitter.com/mlkhattar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mlkhattar</a> <a href="https://t.co/9nsSYPGRJd">https://t.co/9nsSYPGRJd</a>
— Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) <a href="https://twitter.com/BabitaPhogat/status/1160151060587040769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Assembly elections will be held in Haryana later this year.

 
(With inputs from agencies)

Wrestler Babita Phogat on Monday joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the presence of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju at party headquarters in Delhi. Along with Babita, her father Mahavir Phogat, a Dronacharya Awardee, too joined the BJP.

Wrestler Babita Phogat on Monday joined Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the presence of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju at party headquarters in Delhi. Along with Babita, her father Mahavir Phogat, a Dronacharya Awardee, too joined the BJP. He was chief of the Jannayak Janata Party's sports cell, which was floated by former Hisar MP Dushyant Chautala. Ace wrestler Babita Phogat won Silver medal at 21st edition of the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast. It was Phogat's third Commonwealth Games medal after winning silver and gold in Delhi (51kg) and Glasgow (55kg), respectively. Sisters Babita, Geeta and their father Mahavir Phogat inspired critically acclaimed movie 'Dangal' starring Aamir Khan. Phogats said that they are impressed with the policies and programmes of Narendra Modi-led BJP government and also praised Manohar Lal Khattar-led government in Haryana. Babita recently came out in support of the Haryana chief minister over his remark on Kashmiri women, saying there was nothing offensive in what he said. "Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has not made any such statement that is offensive to our sisters and daughters. I urge the media to not misinterpret his statement," she tweeted. हरियाणा के मुख्यमंत्री मनोहर लाल खट्टर जी ने ऐसा कोई बयान नहीं दिया है जिससे हमारी बहन बेटियों के बारे में गलत बोला गया हो मेरी मीडिया से प्रार्थना है कि उनके बयान को गलत तरीके से जनता के सामने पेश ना करें @mlkhattar https://t.co/9nsSYPGRJd — Babita Phogat (@BabitaPhogat) August 10, 2019 × Assembly elections will be held in Haryana later this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Wrestler Babita Phogat, father Mahavir join Bharatiya Janata Party ahead of Haryana Assembly elections

Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Saturday assured that Section 144 will be lifted soon in Jammu and Kashmir where it was in place after the abrogation of Article 370.&nbsp;

"There was peace in Jammu and Kashmir post the abrogation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-responsible-for-corruption-poverty-underdevelopment-in-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-240865">Article 370 and 35A</a>. Section 144 will be lifted within a week to ten days and that there will be normalcy in the Valley soon. For the past 70 years, Indians were like aliens in their own country and now the abrogation of Article 370 has led to an extension of the Indian Constitution in totality to Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;In many places, Section 144 has been relaxed in Jammu and Kashmir," Reddy said at National Seminar on Cyber Security at the Institute of Engineers here.&nbsp;

"Pakistan was trying to mislead people by giving false reports. Similarly, some political parties in the country also misled people for their own vested interests," he said.

Communication was also being restored in some places and will be done soon in many places. There are no signs of havoc in Jammu and Kashmir. We are just taking precautions, if provoked then things will be settled as soon as possible. After the abrogation of Article 370, we can see that people are much happier than before.

"The minister said that Jammu and Kashmir will have developed in the industrial sector and the culture of the state will be recognized."

Parliament recently withdrew special status to the Jammu and Kashmir and also passed Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Act 2019, reorganising the state in two Union Territories Jammu and Kashmir with Assembly and Ladakh without Assembly.&nbsp;

Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Saturday assured that Section 144 will be lifted soon in Jammu and Kashmir where it was in place after the abrogation of Article 370.

Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Saturday assured that Section 144 will be lifted soon in Jammu and Kashmir where it was in place after the abrogation of Article 370. "There was peace in Jammu and Kashmir post the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A. Section 144 will be lifted within a week to ten days and that there will be normalcy in the Valley soon. For the past 70 years, Indians were like aliens in their own country and now the abrogation of Article 370 has led to an extension of the Indian Constitution in totality to Jammu and Kashmir. In many places, Section 144 has been relaxed in Jammu and Kashmir," Reddy said at National Seminar on Cyber Security at the Institute of Engineers here. "Pakistan was trying to mislead people by giving false reports. Similarly, some political parties in the country also misled people for their own vested interests," he said. Communication was also being restored in some places and will be done soon in many places. There are no signs of havoc in Jammu and Kashmir. We are just taking precautions, if provoked then things will be settled as soon as possible. After the abrogation of Article 370, we can see that people are much happier than before. "The minister said that Jammu and Kashmir will have developed in the industrial sector and the culture of the state will be recognized." Parliament recently withdrew special status to the Jammu and Kashmir and also passed Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Act 2019, reorganising the state in two Union Territories Jammu and Kashmir with Assembly and Ladakh without Assembly.

Section 144 to be lifted in Valley within week: Minister of State Home Kishan Reddy

With focus on the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday.&nbsp;

Jaishankar is on a pre-scheduled visit to Beijing from August 11-13 and left for China on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ahead of the visit, India called China an important partner. Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said,&nbsp;"China is a very important partner. There are many channels available to us to discuss all bilateral issues."

Further adding Raveesh Kumar said, "It is expected that bilateral issues will come up for discussion. We will discuss the informal summit. We will also discuss how to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties."

PM Modi met the Chinese President in Kyrgyzstan earlier this year on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Summit and last year both met each other four times starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan in April.

External Affairs Minister will co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM) along with his counterpart.&nbsp;

The HLM aims to increase&nbsp;people-to-people ties and enhance engagement in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports.

"The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries", MEA said in a statement.

The HLC was one of the key outcomes of the Wuhan informal meet and the first meet happened in Delhi in 2018 between Wang Yi and former external affairs minister S Jaishankar.

The visit of Indian foreign minister comes even as Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi went on an emergency visit to China to meet Wang Yi in the backdrop of India's internal decision to change the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Qureshi met Wang Yi on Friday and in a release, the Chinese foreign ministry said, "Pakistan and India are both China’s friendly neighbours and major developing countries that are in a crucial stage of development", and called on the "two sides to proceed from their national development and peace in South Asia."

China has reacted negatively to New Delhi's decision on Jammu and Kashmir evoking a strong reaction New Delhi and said, "India&nbsp;does not comment on the internal affairs of other countries and similarly expects other countries to do likewise."

With focus on the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday.

With focus on the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on Monday. Jaishankar is on a pre-scheduled visit to Beijing from August 11-13 and left for China on Sunday. Ahead of the visit, India called China an important partner. Raveesh Kumar, spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs said, "China is a very important partner. There are many channels available to us to discuss all bilateral issues." Further adding Raveesh Kumar said, "It is expected that bilateral issues will come up for discussion. We will discuss the informal summit. We will also discuss how to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties." PM Modi met the Chinese President in Kyrgyzstan earlier this year on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Summit and last year both met each other four times starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan in April. External Affairs Minister will co-chair the second meeting of the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges (HLM) along with his counterpart. The HLM aims to increase people-to-people ties and enhance engagement in areas such as tourism, art, films, media, culture, sports. "The second HLM meeting will provide an opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the first HLM meeting and discuss new initiatives for enhancing people-to-people exchanges between our two countries", MEA said in a statement. The HLC was one of the key outcomes of the Wuhan informal meet and the first meet happened in Delhi in 2018 between Wang Yi and former external affairs minister S Jaishankar. The visit of Indian foreign minister comes even as Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi went on an emergency visit to China to meet Wang Yi in the backdrop of India's internal decision to change the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Qureshi met Wang Yi on Friday and in a release, the Chinese foreign ministry said, "Pakistan and India are both China’s friendly neighbours and major developing countries that are in a crucial stage of development", and called on the "two sides to proceed from their national development and peace in South Asia." China has reacted negatively to New Delhi's decision on Jammu and Kashmir evoking a strong reaction New Delhi and said, "India does not comment on the internal affairs of other countries and similarly expects other countries to do likewise."

India's foreign minister Jaishankar leaves for China ahead of second informal summit

Recalling one of the moments experienced with Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-feature-in-man-vs-wild-episode-with-bear-grylls-239186">Narendra Modi </a>while filming an episode of the wilderness survival television series <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-man-vs-wild-episode-with-pm-bear-grylls-reflects-on-his-experiences-with-modi-obama-241978">'Man Vs Wild'</a>, adventurer Edward Michael Grylls, popularly known as Bear Grylls, praised Modi's thought of not to harm any animals as his 'upbringing does not allow me to take a life'.

Ever since the promos of Discovery's exclusive show featuring Modi and adventure junkie Grylls riding through the wilderness of Uttarakhand went viral, the special edition has been highly anticipated. In a four minutes promo video, Grylls, was seen teaching Modi how to make a spear that he can use to protect himself in case they encounter a tiger in the woods.

"You are the most important man in India and my job is to keep you alive. If a tiger comes, so this is your protection," Grylls said while teaching Modi how to use a spear as a safeguard against potential attack from a tiger. To which, the Prime Minister replies, "My upbringing does not allow me to take a life. However, I will hold on it (the spear) since you insist!".

Meanwhile, in an exclusive interview to ANI, Grylls was asked whether the audience will get to see him and Prime Minister eating any unpalatable food in their survival quests as the show which goes by name Man Vs Wild is known for it.

To this Grylls refuted the possibility by saying that the 'Prime Minister is vegetarian'.

"Prime Minister is a vegetarian, so there was going to be no eating of grubs or anything like that. But in the wild, you can survive very well off berries, roots, plants and certainly, Prime Minister spent his younger years in the wild, so he was very comfortable with that. We ended up very cold and very wet but shared some beautiful Indian tea together in the end; that was a very special moment for me," the adventurer shared.

Modi also stressed on important issues like the need to preserve and embrace nature. Responding to Grylls, when he pointed out evident dangers lurking in their vicinity (on account of wild animals), Modi fearlessly said, "We should not take this place as a danger zone. When we go against nature then everything becomes dangerous; human beings to become dangerous. On the other hand, if we co-operate with nature, then she also co-operates with us.

In a first, Modi will feature in Discovery Channel's show 'Man Vs Wild' alongside Grylls.

Shot in Jim Corbett National Park, the special episode will be broadcast on August 12 at 9 pm and will be showcased in 180 countries around the world. Elated about the association, the Prime Minister had earlier said he was both intrigued and inclined to take part in the show.

"For years, I have lived among nature, in the mountains and the forests. These years have a lasting impact on my life. So when I was asked about a special programme focusing on life beyond politics and that too amid nature I was both intrigued and inclined to take part in it,"&nbsp;Modi had said.

The show will be a frank and freewheeling journey that will throw light on wildlife conservation, highlighting issues related to environmental change.

The Prime Minister said he took this as an opportunity to showcase India's rich flora and fauna and to emphasise on environmental conservation.

Modi and host Grylls will also be seen building a raft to cross a jungle river together in the episode.

In India, Man Vs Wild with Bear Grylls and Prime Minister Modi will premiere simultaneously on 12 Discovery channels in five languages - English, Bengali, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.&nbsp;

Recalling one of the moments experienced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi while filming an episode of the wilderness survival television series 'Man Vs Wild', adventurer Edward Michael Grylls, popularly known as Bear Grylls, praised Modi's thought of not to harm any animals as his 'upbringing does not allow me to take a life'.

Recalling one of the moments experienced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi while filming an episode of the wilderness survival television series 'Man Vs Wild', adventurer Edward Michael Grylls, popularly known as Bear Grylls, praised Modi's thought of not to harm any animals as his 'upbringing does not allow me to take a life'. Ever since the promos of Discovery's exclusive show featuring Modi and adventure junkie Grylls riding through the wilderness of Uttarakhand went viral, the special edition has been highly anticipated. In a four minutes promo video, Grylls, was seen teaching Modi how to make a spear that he can use to protect himself in case they encounter a tiger in the woods. "You are the most important man in India and my job is to keep you alive. If a tiger comes, so this is your protection," Grylls said while teaching Modi how to use a spear as a safeguard against potential attack from a tiger. To which, the Prime Minister replies, "My upbringing does not allow me to take a life. However, I will hold on it (the spear) since you insist!". Meanwhile, in an exclusive interview to ANI, Grylls was asked whether the audience will get to see him and Prime Minister eating any unpalatable food in their survival quests as the show which goes by name Man Vs Wild is known for it. To this Grylls refuted the possibility by saying that the 'Prime Minister is vegetarian'. "Prime Minister is a vegetarian, so there was going to be no eating of grubs or anything like that. But in the wild, you can survive very well off berries, roots, plants and certainly, Prime Minister spent his younger years in the wild, so he was very comfortable with that. We ended up very cold and very wet but shared some beautiful Indian tea together in the end; that was a very special moment for me," the adventurer shared. Modi also stressed on important issues like the need to preserve and embrace nature. Responding to Grylls, when he pointed out evident dangers lurking in their vicinity (on account of wild animals), Modi fearlessly said, "We should not take this place as a danger zone. When we go against nature then everything becomes dangerous; human beings to become dangerous. On the other hand, if we co-operate with nature, then she also co-operates with us. In a first, Modi will feature in Discovery Channel's show 'Man Vs Wild' alongside Grylls. Shot in Jim Corbett National Park, the special episode will be broadcast on August 12 at 9 pm and will be showcased in 180 countries around the world. Elated about the association, the Prime Minister had earlier said he was both intrigued and inclined to take part in the show. "For years, I have lived among nature, in the mountains and the forests. These years have a lasting impact on my life. So when I was asked about a special programme focusing on life beyond politics and that too amid nature I was both intrigued and inclined to take part in it," Modi had said. The show will be a frank and freewheeling journey that will throw light on wildlife conservation, highlighting issues related to environmental change. The Prime Minister said he took this as an opportunity to showcase India's rich flora and fauna and to emphasise on environmental conservation. Modi and host Grylls will also be seen building a raft to cross a jungle river together in the episode. In India, Man Vs Wild with Bear Grylls and Prime Minister Modi will premiere simultaneously on 12 Discovery channels in five languages - English, Bengali, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.

'My upbringing does not allow me to take a life': PM Narendra Modi to Bear Grylls on fighting a tiger

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-flood-over-2-lakh-people-rescued-43-teams-of-multiple-agencies-deployed-241626">flood situation in the state</a>.

The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

"CM Fadnavis briefs Hon PM Narendra Modi on Maharashtra Floods situation. PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue &amp; relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India," tweeted CMO Maharashtra.

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CM <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dev_Fadnavis</a> briefs Hon PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaharashtraFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaharashtraFloods</a> situation. 
Hon PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue &amp; relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India.<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>
— CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra/status/1159756000339091456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As many as 29&nbsp;people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara in the state.

"29&nbsp;people died due to floods in 5 districts of Pune division in Maharashtra. More than 2 lakh people have been evacuated to safe places till now from 3 districts including Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara," said Deepak Mhaisekar, Divisional Commissioner, Pune Division.

Amid flood-like situation in Maharashtra, 12 rescue teams of Indian Navy have been deployed today in Sangli district in addition to the teams already present in Kolhapur.

The rescue teams left for Sangli last night by road after airlift was aborted due to unfavourable weather conditions in Kolhapur and Sangli districts.

Police escorts were also provided a green corridor till Sangli.

The Chief Minister had on Thursday also conducted an aerial survey of the flood-affected districts of Sangli and Kolhapur to take stock of the situation. 
Ministers Chandrakant Patil, Girish Mahajan, and Eknath Shinde accompanied Fadnavis.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the flood situation in the state. The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the flood situation in the state. The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre. "CM Fadnavis briefs Hon PM Narendra Modi on Maharashtra Floods situation. PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue & relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India," tweeted CMO Maharashtra. CM @Dev_Fadnavis briefs Hon PM @narendramodi on #MaharashtraFloods situation. Hon PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue & relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India.@PMOIndia — CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) August 9, 2019 × As many as 29 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara in the state. "29 people died due to floods in 5 districts of Pune division in Maharashtra. More than 2 lakh people have been evacuated to safe places till now from 3 districts including Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara," said Deepak Mhaisekar, Divisional Commissioner, Pune Division. Amid flood-like situation in Maharashtra, 12 rescue teams of Indian Navy have been deployed today in Sangli district in addition to the teams already present in Kolhapur. The rescue teams left for Sangli last night by road after airlift was aborted due to unfavourable weather conditions in Kolhapur and Sangli districts. Police escorts were also provided a green corridor till Sangli. The Chief Minister had on Thursday also conducted an aerial survey of the flood-affected districts of Sangli and Kolhapur to take stock of the situation. Ministers Chandrakant Patil, Girish Mahajan, and Eknath Shinde accompanied Fadnavis.

PM Modi assures assistance to flood-hit Maharashtra

&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-35a-370-acted-as-a-tool-to-spread-terrorism-and-violence-in-valley-pm-modi-241575">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> will be visiting&nbsp;Bhutan&nbsp;from August 17 to 18.

In a statement, the MEA said, "The visit reflects the high priority that the Government of India attaches to its relations with Bhutan, India’s trusted friend and neighbour. Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Bhutan, very early in his second term, is in line with GoI’s continued emphasis on its ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’."

PM will&nbsp;receive audiences with&nbsp;Bhutanese King&nbsp;Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the&nbsp;fourth King of Bhutan&nbsp;Jigme Singye Wangchuck and hold talks with Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr Lotay Tshering.

The MEA in its release highlighted the ties between the two countries stating, "India and Bhutan share a special and time-tested partnership" which is "anchored in mutual understanding and respect and reinforced by a shared cultural heritage and strong people to people links."

This will be the first visit by PM Modi to&nbsp;Bhutan&nbsp;after&nbsp;the Doklam crisis of 2017. The crisis&nbsp;saw a two-month-long&nbsp;standoff between the Indian Army and Chinese forces in&nbsp;the Bhutanese territory of Doklam which is claimed by Beijing.

Newly-elected Bhutanese&nbsp;Prime Minister Lyonchhen Lotay Tshering was on a state visit to India in&nbsp;December 2018. He was again in Delhi in May to attend Modi's oath-taking ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan along with other BIMSTEC leaders.&nbsp;

Earlier this year,&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Bhutan, his first visit abroad after taking charge.&nbsp;

Hydro-power sector is one of the main pillars of India-Bhutan&nbsp;ties with New Delhi building three power projects in the country.&nbsp;Bhutan&nbsp;exports three fourth of power generated, which is surplus, to India and uses rest for its domestic consumption.

Bhutan&nbsp;was the first country PM Modi visited after taking charge in 2014. During that visit, the prime minister addressed the joint session of&nbsp;Bhutanese Parliament,&nbsp;laid&nbsp;the foundation stone of the 600 MW Kholongchhu Hydropower Project and inaugurated the Supreme Court building which was constructed with the help of the Indian government.

The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting Bhutan from August 17 to 18. In a statement, the MEA said, "The visit reflects the high priority that the Government of India attaches to its relations with Bhutan, India’s trusted friend and neighbour.

The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting Bhutan from August 17 to 18. In a statement, the MEA said, "The visit reflects the high priority that the Government of India attaches to its relations with Bhutan, India’s trusted friend and neighbour. Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Bhutan, very early in his second term, is in line with GoI’s continued emphasis on its ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’." PM will receive audiences with Bhutanese King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the fourth King of Bhutan Jigme Singye Wangchuck and hold talks with Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr Lotay Tshering. The MEA in its release highlighted the ties between the two countries stating, "India and Bhutan share a special and time-tested partnership" which is "anchored in mutual understanding and respect and reinforced by a shared cultural heritage and strong people to people links." This will be the first visit by PM Modi to Bhutan after the Doklam crisis of 2017. The crisis saw a two-month-long standoff between the Indian Army and Chinese forces in the Bhutanese territory of Doklam which is claimed by Beijing. Newly-elected Bhutanese Prime Minister Lyonchhen Lotay Tshering was on a state visit to India in December 2018. He was again in Delhi in May to attend Modi's oath-taking ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan along with other BIMSTEC leaders. Earlier this year, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Bhutan, his first visit abroad after taking charge. Hydro-power sector is one of the main pillars of India-Bhutan ties with New Delhi building three power projects in the country. Bhutan exports three fourth of power generated, which is surplus, to India and uses rest for its domestic consumption. Bhutan was the first country PM Modi visited after taking charge in 2014. During that visit, the prime minister addressed the joint session of Bhutanese Parliament, laid the foundation stone of the 600 MW Kholongchhu Hydropower Project and inaugurated the Supreme Court building which was constructed with the help of the Indian government.

With focus on 'neighbourhood first policy', PM Modi to visit Bhutan on August 17

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir that elections would soon be held in the state for the assembly in a transparent manner, two days after government's decision to end special status for the state and split it into two union territories.

In a televised address to the nation, Modi said a large parts of Jammu and Kashmir was bereft of democratic practices and electoral culture which exists elsewhere in the country, he said.&nbsp;

''You will be shocked, in J&amp;K for decades, lakhs and thousands of perople had right to vote in Lok Sabha polls but neither they could vote nor contest in assembly/local polls. These are those who came to India after partition in 1947. Should injustice have continued with them?'' he said.

Terming the changes in Jammu and Kashmir the beginning of "new era", he said that people across the country now have the same rights.&nbsp;

Modi said that he wanted the local young leaders of the region to enter politics and participate in the polls.

The Prime Minister urged the J&amp;K Governor to complete at the earliest formation of the block development councils, pending for the last two-three decades.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir that elections would soon be held in the state for the assembly in a transparent manner, two days after government's decision to end special status for the state and split it into two union territories.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured the people of Jammu and Kashmir that elections would soon be held in the state for the assembly in a transparent manner, two days after government's decision to end special status for the state and split it into two union territories. In a televised address to the nation, Modi said a large parts of Jammu and Kashmir was bereft of democratic practices and electoral culture which exists elsewhere in the country, he said. ''You will be shocked, in J&K for decades, lakhs and thousands of perople had right to vote in Lok Sabha polls but neither they could vote nor contest in assembly/local polls. These are those who came to India after partition in 1947. Should injustice have continued with them?'' he said. Terming the changes in Jammu and Kashmir the beginning of "new era", he said that people across the country now have the same rights. Modi said that he wanted the local young leaders of the region to enter politics and participate in the polls. The Prime Minister urged the J&K Governor to complete at the earliest formation of the block development councils, pending for the last two-three decades.

Assembly elections in Jammu & Kashmir will be held soon in transparent manner: PM Modi

In the last one year, Delhi has lost three of its former chief ministers – Madan Lal Khurana, Sheila Dikshit and Sushma Swaraj.

Khurana, a veteran BJP&nbsp;leader and third chief minister of Delhi, died on October 27, 2018.

Khurana had breathed his last at the age of 82 at his residence in Kirti Nagar area of the national capital. He had served as the chief minister of Delhi from 1993 to 1996.&nbsp;He had suffered a brain haemorrhage five years before his demise and died after a prolonged illness.

Congress leader Sheila Dikshit who served as Delhi CM&nbsp;for three times passed away on July 20 at a private hospital&nbsp;in New Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest.

She was 81.

Dikshit was president of Delhi Congress. She served as Delhi's chief minister for 15 years from 1998 to 2013.

Known as a warm and affable politician, Dikshit carried out massive infrastructure development of Delhi during her tenure. She also launched several social welfare schemes with the involvement of resident welfare associations as part of her participatory model of governance.

Two of Delhi's only women Chief Ministers passed away within weeks of each other.&nbsp;

Now, the death of Sushma Swaraj has shocked the nation.

Political leaders from various states condoled the death of former external affairs minister. The veteran leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who breathed her last at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Tuesday night following a massive cardiac arrest, was 67.

In the last one year, Delhi has lost three of its former chief ministers – Madan Lal Khurana, Sheila Dikshit and Sushma Swaraj. Khurana, a veteran BJP leader and third chief minister of Delhi, died on October 27, 2018.

In the last one year, Delhi has lost three of its former chief ministers – Madan Lal Khurana, Sheila Dikshit and Sushma Swaraj. Khurana, a veteran BJP leader and third chief minister of Delhi, died on October 27, 2018. Khurana had breathed his last at the age of 82 at his residence in Kirti Nagar area of the national capital. He had served as the chief minister of Delhi from 1993 to 1996. He had suffered a brain haemorrhage five years before his demise and died after a prolonged illness. Congress leader Sheila Dikshit who served as Delhi CM for three times passed away on July 20 at a private hospital in New Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest. She was 81. Dikshit was president of Delhi Congress. She served as Delhi's chief minister for 15 years from 1998 to 2013. Known as a warm and affable politician, Dikshit carried out massive infrastructure development of Delhi during her tenure. She also launched several social welfare schemes with the involvement of resident welfare associations as part of her participatory model of governance. Two of Delhi's only women Chief Ministers passed away within weeks of each other. Now, the death of Sushma Swaraj has shocked the nation. Political leaders from various states condoled the death of former external affairs minister. The veteran leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who breathed her last at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Tuesday night following a massive cardiac arrest, was 67.

Madan Lal Khurana, Sheila Dikshit and Sushma Swaraj: Delhi lost three of its former chief ministers in less than a year

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday reviewed the law and order in the state following the scrapping of Article 370.

The Governor directed Deputy Commissioners of respective districts in the valley to depute their staff to visit different localities &amp; take stock of requirements of people and address them swiftly, reported news agency ANI.

Malik reiterated his concern for ensuring the safety of the general public. He also asked the authorities to extend all the help to tourists in the state.

Satya Pal Malik was informed that there was sufficient availability of essential supplies and emergency services were functioning in the hospitals. 
&nbsp;

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Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladhak.

The repeal of Article 370 has also led to abrogation of Article 35 A related to "permanent residents". 
Meanwhile, Centre has asked states and Union Territories to keep security forces on "maximum alert" following decisions related to Jammu and Kashmir to "pre-empt" and "prevent any breach of security", a communique issued by Home Ministry said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday reviewed the law and order in the state following the scrapping of Article 370. The Governor directed Deputy Commissioners of respective districts in the valley to depute their staff to visit different localities & take stock of requirements of people and address them swiftly, reported news agency ANI.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday reviewed the law and order in the state following the scrapping of Article 370. The Governor directed Deputy Commissioners of respective districts in the valley to depute their staff to visit different localities & take stock of requirements of people and address them swiftly, reported news agency ANI. Malik reiterated his concern for ensuring the safety of the general public. He also asked the authorities to extend all the help to tourists in the state. Satya Pal Malik was informed that there was sufficient availability of essential supplies and emergency services were functioning in the hospitals. × Parliament on Tuesday approved a resolution abrogating special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution and a bill for splitting the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladhak. The repeal of Article 370 has also led to abrogation of Article 35 A related to "permanent residents". Meanwhile, Centre has asked states and Union Territories to keep security forces on "maximum alert" following decisions related to Jammu and Kashmir to "pre-empt" and "prevent any breach of security", a communique issued by Home Ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik reviews law and order situation, asks authorities to ensure safety of locals

Former external affairs minister and senior BJP leader Sushma Swaraj was cremated with full state honours on Wednesday at Lodhi crematorium in Delhi.

Swaraj died following a massive heart attack on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Bansuri Swaraj, daughter of Sushma Swaraj performed the last rites before the mortal remains of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swarajs-demise-is-a-personal-loss-pm-modi-241253">&nbsp;BJP veteran</a> was laid to rest.

<img alt="Sushma " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f921547-c9eb-4ad5-9ae9-3740eb808573" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/swaraj%20image_0_0.jpg" />

PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP veteran LK Advani and former Bhutan prime miniser Tshering Tobgay among others were present at the at Lodhi crematorium

Earlier, the mortal remains of&nbsp;Swaraj was kept in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-final-rites-sushma-swarajs-mortal-remains-moved-to-bjp-headquarters-241315"> BJP headquarters</a> where President Ram Nath Kovind and BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid an emotional tribute to the veteran BJP leader.&nbsp;

Hours before her demise, Swaraj in a tweet congratulated Modi on Article 370 victory and said '' I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime''.

Former external affairs minister and senior BJP leader Sushma Swaraj was cremated with full state honours on Wednesday at Lodhi crematorium in Delhi. Swaraj died following a massive heart attack on Tuesday.

Former external affairs minister and senior BJP leader Sushma Swaraj was cremated with full state honours on Wednesday at Lodhi crematorium in Delhi. Swaraj died following a massive heart attack on Tuesday. Bansuri Swaraj, daughter of Sushma Swaraj performed the last rites before the mortal remains of the BJP veteran was laid to rest. PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP veteran LK Advani and former Bhutan prime miniser Tshering Tobgay among others were present at the at Lodhi crematorium Earlier, the mortal remains of Swaraj was kept in BJP headquarters where President Ram Nath Kovind and BJP leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid an emotional tribute to the veteran BJP leader. Hours before her demise, Swaraj in a tweet congratulated Modi on Article 370 victory and said '' I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime''.

Former external affairs minister and senior BJP leader Sushma Swaraj cremated with full state honours 

After Central government's announced to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/true-development-and-integration-of-jammu-and-kashmir-will-happen-now-nirmala-sitharaman-240845">bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-responsible-for-corruption-poverty-underdevelopment-in-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-240865">revoke Article 370 and Article 35A</a>, the question arises on the road ahead following the landmark judgement, which, can spell challenges for the PM Modi-led government.&nbsp;

The decision to abrogate Article 370 and Article 35A involves legal, political, diplomatic and security issues, here's a look:

Groundwork

For one, New Delhi needs to win the hearts and minds of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. Some in Kashmir have already made known their opposition to the removal of the special status to the state.&nbsp;

Jobs, development, investment&nbsp;

The government will need to generate much-needed goodwill among the locals by creating jobs for youths. Attract foreign direct investment and encourage the private sector to set up shops.

Good governance will be a key aim as decades of violence has left a void in terms of the development of the state.&nbsp;

Fair polls

Free and fair elections will be on the agenda too - today, the legislature stands dissolved and the state has been pot under governor's rule.

Delimitation of Assembly constituencies to make it more representative is not off the table as well.&nbsp;

On the diplomatic front, New Delhi will need to manage and pre-empt international reaction at once.

Sources have told WION that diplomats would soon fan-out to key world capitals to explain to them the circumstances leading up the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A.

The sources added that India has factored-in Pakistan's reaction at various world forums.&nbsp;

Security&nbsp;

Then there is the security issue, which is another concern. New Delhi has already sent thousands of additional troops to Jammu and Kashmir as a contingency measure.&nbsp;

Steps have also been taken to counter terrorists' designs.

The government is also seized of the need to counter any legal challenge to today's decisions.

After Central government's announced to bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir and revoke Article 370 and Article 35A, the question arises on the road ahead following the landmark judgement, which, can spell challenges for the PM Modi-led government.

After Central government's announced to bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir and revoke Article 370 and Article 35A, the question arises on the road ahead following the landmark judgement, which, can spell challenges for the PM Modi-led government. The decision to abrogate Article 370 and Article 35A involves legal, political, diplomatic and security issues, here's a look: Groundwork For one, New Delhi needs to win the hearts and minds of the people in Jammu and Kashmir. Some in Kashmir have already made known their opposition to the removal of the special status to the state. Jobs, development, investment The government will need to generate much-needed goodwill among the locals by creating jobs for youths. Attract foreign direct investment and encourage the private sector to set up shops. Good governance will be a key aim as decades of violence has left a void in terms of the development of the state. Fair polls Free and fair elections will be on the agenda too - today, the legislature stands dissolved and the state has been pot under governor's rule. Delimitation of Assembly constituencies to make it more representative is not off the table as well. On the diplomatic front, New Delhi will need to manage and pre-empt international reaction at once. Sources have told WION that diplomats would soon fan-out to key world capitals to explain to them the circumstances leading up the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A. The sources added that India has factored-in Pakistan's reaction at various world forums. Security Then there is the security issue, which is another concern. New Delhi has already sent thousands of additional troops to Jammu and Kashmir as a contingency measure. Steps have also been taken to counter terrorists' designs. The government is also seized of the need to counter any legal challenge to today's decisions.

The road ahead: What's next for Jammu and Kashmir after bifurcation, revocation of Articles 370, 35A

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo.

This combination has ended the politics of status quo which afflicted Indian politics and our international positions for a long time. By doing away with Article 370, Narendra Modi has shown that he means business when it comes to the core agenda of the RSS family.

The idea of abrogation of Article 370 was not born yesterday. It has been one of the original demands of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee who founded Jan Sangh and, very famously, coined the phrase, "Ek desh mein do vidhan, do pradhan aur do nishan nahi rah sakte hain."

It is a demand which has been part of BJP’s manifesto that was strongly supported by RSS. And hence, what Modi has done is to commit himself to the core idea of his party by changing the status quo of politics in Kashmir which was considered impossible. There can be reasons for and against the way Article 370 has been repealed, but the fact remains that he has done it. It will be appreciated by most Indians as it cements his image as a strong and committed leader.

Modi is also not the first person to take important decisions after earning landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Indira Gandhi, after winning the war with Pakistan, hammered out an accord with the Kashmiri leader Sheikh Abdullah when the former had to agree that clock cannot be reset and pre-1953 status of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be restored.

Similarly, Narendra Modi after 2019 victory has taken the bold decision to end Kashmiri exceptionalism in Indian politics. Nation making is not cast in stone and laws and norms must reflect the moorings of the society.&nbsp;

Today, Article 370 cannot be seen in isolation as it serves as a deterrent to prevent integration of J&amp;K with India. Article 370 is a debate which has caught the imagination of many Indians who feel confident in a resurgent India wants status quo born out of partition to be changed forever.&nbsp;

The abrogation also ends the debate on what the Indian government can/should do with Kashmir. There will be international repercussion and, maybe, bigger domestic ones but it will not change anything on the ground per se.

We should also not forget that Kashmir also comprises Batalik, Kargil, Turtuk, Ladakh and Jammu region and their aspirations cannot be lost to radicalism which is emanating from Southern Kashmir.&nbsp;

Yes, there will be questions about the detention of state leaders and less time given to Parliament to debate the bill, but no one would argue that status changing step has not been taken. Whether it is demonetisation or triple talaq, BJP has successfully changed the status quo of politics in India. The best example is Balakot strike where Modi used the air platform against Pakistan which was considered impossible some years back.

Lastly, Opposition parties will have to creatively deal with the politics of positive nationalism. Any idea which public would see as going against the national unity would massively boom rang.

Though it does not mean that BJP will not have any hill to climb. The top focus of the BJP will remain to tackle violence in the valley. If BJP is able to control the urban centres and restore the normalcy in Kashmir, it will be a victory, but in case the situation becomes worst, then BJP may have to rue this for a long time.&nbsp;

But there are always big ifs before and after momentous decisions and no one can take away from BJP that it has, indeed, taken a big decision by reorganising the state of Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo.

Whether you like it or not, Narendra Modi-Amit Shah model has unleashed new politics in India. One can call it politics of change which continuously challenges the status quo. This combination has ended the politics of status quo which afflicted Indian politics and our international positions for a long time. By doing away with Article 370, Narendra Modi has shown that he means business when it comes to the core agenda of the RSS family. The idea of abrogation of Article 370 was not born yesterday. It has been one of the original demands of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee who founded Jan Sangh and, very famously, coined the phrase, "Ek desh mein do vidhan, do pradhan aur do nishan nahi rah sakte hain." It is a demand which has been part of BJP’s manifesto that was strongly supported by RSS. And hence, what Modi has done is to commit himself to the core idea of his party by changing the status quo of politics in Kashmir which was considered impossible. There can be reasons for and against the way Article 370 has been repealed, but the fact remains that he has done it. It will be appreciated by most Indians as it cements his image as a strong and committed leader. Modi is also not the first person to take important decisions after earning landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Indira Gandhi, after winning the war with Pakistan, hammered out an accord with the Kashmiri leader Sheikh Abdullah when the former had to agree that clock cannot be reset and pre-1953 status of Jammu and Kashmir cannot be restored. Similarly, Narendra Modi after 2019 victory has taken the bold decision to end Kashmiri exceptionalism in Indian politics. Nation making is not cast in stone and laws and norms must reflect the moorings of the society. Today, Article 370 cannot be seen in isolation as it serves as a deterrent to prevent integration of J&K with India. Article 370 is a debate which has caught the imagination of many Indians who feel confident in a resurgent India wants status quo born out of partition to be changed forever. The abrogation also ends the debate on what the Indian government can/should do with Kashmir. There will be international repercussion and, maybe, bigger domestic ones but it will not change anything on the ground per se. We should also not forget that Kashmir also comprises Batalik, Kargil, Turtuk, Ladakh and Jammu region and their aspirations cannot be lost to radicalism which is emanating from Southern Kashmir. Yes, there will be questions about the detention of state leaders and less time given to Parliament to debate the bill, but no one would argue that status changing step has not been taken. Whether it is demonetisation or triple talaq, BJP has successfully changed the status quo of politics in India. The best example is Balakot strike where Modi used the air platform against Pakistan which was considered impossible some years back. Lastly, Opposition parties will have to creatively deal with the politics of positive nationalism. Any idea which public would see as going against the national unity would massively boom rang. Though it does not mean that BJP will not have any hill to climb. The top focus of the BJP will remain to tackle violence in the valley. If BJP is able to control the urban centres and restore the normalcy in Kashmir, it will be a victory, but in case the situation becomes worst, then BJP may have to rue this for a long time. But there are always big ifs before and after momentous decisions and no one can take away from BJP that it has, indeed, taken a big decision by reorganising the state of Jammu and Kashmir. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

PM Narendra Modi does it again: BJP has achieved the impossible by revoking Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to visit India in October this year during which she will discuss bilateral issues including water sharing in common rivers, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said here on Sunday.

It will be Hasina's first visit to India after assuming office for the third consecutive term.

The dates will be finalised during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's two-day visit to Dhaka on August 20-21, Dhaka Tribune has reported.

The agenda of Hasina's visit will include discussion on all bilateral, regional and international issues, with a greater focus on the issue of sharing water from 54 trans-boundary rivers between the neighbours.

Previously, the Teesta water agreement was slated to be inked between the two countries on September 6, 2011, during the visit of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Dhaka. But the proposed deal was called off after repeated objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The water-sharing issue was once again discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka in June 2015. Prime Minister Modi had assured Shiekh Hasina that the waters of the river would be shared while looking forward to achieving a quick resolution to the issue.

India and Bangladesh share 54 common streams with the Teesta being a major one and the water sharing dispute between the two neighbours is not something new.

The Teesta River is a 309 km long river flowing through Sikkim.

It carves a way for itself through the verdant Himalayas in temperate and tropical river valleys and forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal.

The flow of the river is crucial for Bangladesh from December to March for that they require 50 per cent of the river's water supply, while India claims a share of 55 per cent.

However, Momen denied media reports that India has sought land from Bangladesh to expand the Agartala airport in Tripura.

"I did not get any letter in this regard... I have no knowledge about it," he was quoted as saying.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to visit India in October this year during which she will discuss bilateral issues including water sharing in common rivers, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said here on Sunday.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to visit India in October this year during which she will discuss bilateral issues including water sharing in common rivers, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said here on Sunday. It will be Hasina's first visit to India after assuming office for the third consecutive term. The dates will be finalised during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's two-day visit to Dhaka on August 20-21, Dhaka Tribune has reported. The agenda of Hasina's visit will include discussion on all bilateral, regional and international issues, with a greater focus on the issue of sharing water from 54 trans-boundary rivers between the neighbours. Previously, the Teesta water agreement was slated to be inked between the two countries on September 6, 2011, during the visit of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Dhaka. But the proposed deal was called off after repeated objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The water-sharing issue was once again discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka in June 2015. Prime Minister Modi had assured Shiekh Hasina that the waters of the river would be shared while looking forward to achieving a quick resolution to the issue. India and Bangladesh share 54 common streams with the Teesta being a major one and the water sharing dispute between the two neighbours is not something new. The Teesta River is a 309 km long river flowing through Sikkim. It carves a way for itself through the verdant Himalayas in temperate and tropical river valleys and forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal. The flow of the river is crucial for Bangladesh from December to March for that they require 50 per cent of the river's water supply, while India claims a share of 55 per cent. However, Momen denied media reports that India has sought land from Bangladesh to expand the Agartala airport in Tripura. "I did not get any letter in this regard... I have no knowledge about it," he was quoted as saying.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina to visit India in October to discuss bilateral issues

When Home Minister Amit Shah announced repealing Articles 370 and 35A which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, it was a result of a carefully crafted strategy by the government of India to avoid any untoward incident.

When Home Minister Amit Shah announced repealing Articles 370 and 35A which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, it was a result of a carefully crafted strategy by the government of India to avoid any untoward incident. The ground was prepared by the elimination of terrorists in the Valley as the Indian security forces launched a massive crackdown against active terror groups. On August 2, Indian Army found a huge cache of arms, including a Pakistani mine and an American sniper rifle, on the route of the Amarnath Yatra. Within a few hours of this arms haul, the Amarnath Yatra was curtailed and the pilgrims were asked to leave the Kashmir valley. Watch: Kashmir is reborn, New era of Jammu & Kashmir On the same day, a group of political leaders including former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti met Governor Satyapal Malik and asked him to clear the sense of uncertainty. The Governor, however, asked the people to remain calm and exaggerate the rumours about the advisory. On August 3, around 6,200 people were taken out of the Kashmir valley through civilian and military aircraft. The 43-day-long Machail Yatra to the shrine in Kishtwar was also suspended. The same day, the Indian Army foiled an attack by Pakistan's Border Action Team (BAT). The UK, Canada and Australia issued travel advisories urging their citizens not to travel to Jammu and Kashmir. The Army said that 5-7 Pakistani BAT regulators were gunned down. On August 4, state carrier Air India reduced fares on the Srinagar-New Delhi route and almost 100 cricketers in the Kashmir valley were asked to leave. Home Minister Amit Shah held a crucial security meeting with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba. Then, late into the night on August 4, two former chief ministers - Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah - were placed under house arrest along with other political leaders. Internet services were also suspended in the Kashmir valley.

Lead-up to the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir: Timeline of recent events

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday addressed&nbsp;Rajya Sabha and replied to the debate in the Upper House on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/true-development-and-integration-of-jammu-and-kashmir-will-happen-now-nirmala-sitharaman-240845">revocation of Article 370</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-article-35a-heres-all-you-need-to-know-240752">Article 35A</a>&nbsp;in Jammu and Kashmir.

Shah opened his address by stating that he has brought a "historic proposal"&nbsp;to the table.

Calling Jammu and Kashmir the "crown jewel of India", Shah said that all efforts must be made to attain normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"I am convinced this move will result in the end of violence in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said.&nbsp;

The Home Minister further added that the reason for corruption, poverty, underdevelopment and lack of investments in Jammu and Kashmir was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772">Article 370</a>.&nbsp;

"I want to tell the people of J&amp;K what damage 370 &amp; 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place," Shah stated.&nbsp;

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Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha: I want to tell the people of J&amp;K what damage 370 &amp; 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place <a href="https://t.co/EtvHHQ6jRO">pic.twitter.com/EtvHHQ6jRO</a>
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"The entire country is on the path of development, it is heartwrenching to see the state of villages in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah noted exuding confidence that scrapping Article 370 will better the situations in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"Tourism could not take place in Jammu and Kashmir because of Article 370," he noted.&nbsp;

"Scrapping Article 370 is also essential to end terrorism," he stated.

"We must all rise from vote bank politics and work for the development of Jammu and Kashmir, we must work as a unified House," Shah wrapping up his address in the Upper House in the presence of&nbsp;&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also resounded similar sentiments on Monday.

Lauding centre's decision of scrapping Article 370 and 35A in Jammu and Kashmir she said that the move will facilitate the development of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"No investment is happening in Jammu and Kashmir," Sitharaman said, adding that "with this move, the true development and integration of Jammu and Kashmir will happen".&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The finance minister said that the entire nation had been waiting for this for the last 70 years.&nbsp;

"Even our manifesto mentioned the need to abrogate Article 370, so it is not something we brought out suddenly like a rabbit from a magic hat," she said.&nbsp;

The government on Monday announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-now-a-union-territory-ladakh-to-be-administered-from-delhi-as-ut-240769">bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir</a>. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi.

 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday addressed Rajya Sabha and replied to the debate in the Upper House on the revocation of Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday addressed Rajya Sabha and replied to the debate in the Upper House on the revocation of Article 370 and Article 35A in Jammu and Kashmir. Shah opened his address by stating that he has brought a "historic proposal" to the table. Calling Jammu and Kashmir the "crown jewel of India", Shah said that all efforts must be made to attain normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. "I am convinced this move will result in the end of violence in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah said. The Home Minister further added that the reason for corruption, poverty, underdevelopment and lack of investments in Jammu and Kashmir was Article 370. "I want to tell the people of J&K what damage 370 & 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place," Shah stated. Amit Shah in Rajya Sabha: I want to tell the people of J&K what damage 370 & 35A did to the state. It's because of these sections that democracy was never fully implemented, corruption increased in the state, that no development could take place pic.twitter.com/EtvHHQ6jRO — ANI (@ANI) August 5, 2019 × "The entire country is on the path of development, it is heartwrenching to see the state of villages in Jammu and Kashmir," Shah noted exuding confidence that scrapping Article 370 will better the situations in Jammu and Kashmir. "Tourism could not take place in Jammu and Kashmir because of Article 370," he noted. "Scrapping Article 370 is also essential to end terrorism," he stated. "We must all rise from vote bank politics and work for the development of Jammu and Kashmir, we must work as a unified House," Shah wrapping up his address in the Upper House in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also resounded similar sentiments on Monday. Lauding centre's decision of scrapping Article 370 and 35A in Jammu and Kashmir she said that the move will facilitate the development of Jammu and Kashmir. "No investment is happening in Jammu and Kashmir," Sitharaman said, adding that "with this move, the true development and integration of Jammu and Kashmir will happen". The finance minister said that the entire nation had been waiting for this for the last 70 years. "Even our manifesto mentioned the need to abrogate Article 370, so it is not something we brought out suddenly like a rabbit from a magic hat," she said. The government on Monday announced the bifurcation of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. While Jammu and Kashmir will be a Union Territory with a legislature, Ladakh has been converted into a separate Union Territory sans legislature. The Union Territory of Ladakh will be administered by Delhi.

Scrapping Article 370 essential to achieve normalcy in country's 'crown jewel', Jammu and Kashmir: Amit Shah

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced the revocation of Article 370 in the Upper House of Parliament, ending 70 years of stated policy on the state. The proposal came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting of Union Cabinet morning.

Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday announced the revocation of Article 370 in the Upper House of Parliament, ending 70 years of stated policy on the state. The proposal came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting of Union Cabinet morning. Government plans a reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir as a Union Territory, Shah informed Rajya Sabha. "I am presenting the resolution to revoke Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir except the first clause 370 (1)," Amit Shah said in the Parliament. The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order 2019 will supersede the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954, which was issued to add Article 35A to the Indian Constitution by then President Rajendra Prasad under Article 370, on the advice of the Jawaharlal Nehru-led Union Government. The constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) order 2019.#JammuAndKashmir #Article370 pic.twitter.com/5jhjwHDAmR — PIB India (@PIB_India) August 5, 2019 × The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order 2019: In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (1) of article 370 of the Constitution, the President, with the concurrence of the Government of State of Jammu and Kashmir, is pleased to make the following Order:- 1. (1) This Order may be called the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019. (2) It shall come into force at once, and shall thereupon supersede the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954 as amended from time to time. 2. All the provisions of the Constitution, as amended from time to time, shall apply in relation to the State of Jammu and Kashmir and the exceptions and modifications subject to which they shall so apply shall be as follows:- To article 367, there shall be added the following clause, namely:- "(4) For the purposes of this Constitution as it applies in relation to the State of Jammu and Kashmir- (a) references to this Constitution or to the provisions thereof shall be construed as references to the Constitution or the provisions thereof as applied in relation to the said State; (b) references to the person for the time being recognized by the President on the recommendation of the Legislative Assembly of the State as the Sadar-i-Riyasat of Jammu and Kashmir, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers of the State for the time being in office, shall be construed as references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir; (c) references to the Government of the said State shall be construed as including references to the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir acting on the advice of his Council of Ministers; and (d) in proviso to clause (3) of article 370 of this Constitution, the expression "Constituent Assembly of the State referred to in clause (2)" shall read "Legislative Assembly of the State". Ram Nath Kovind, President

Full text of President's resolution to revoke Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir

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