India has dished out to Pakistan what it had been asking for years. Pakistan had been testing India’s patience by carrying out dastardly attacks through its band of home-grown terrorists in Kashmir and other parts of the country. But for how long? It had to happen. India needed to give a strong reply to Pakistan to stop it in its tracks.&nbsp;

For how long could Pakistan expect India to sit quietly as it went about continuing with its state policy of terror? A loud and clear message has been delivered to Pakistan that India will not hesitate in going inside the Pakistani territory to hunt out terrorists and their camps. &nbsp;

Here are the key takeaways:&nbsp; 
 
Meticulous planning: The air strike was well-timed and carefully planned. It is not easy to carry out aerial attacks during the hours of darkness when operations get hampered due to lower visibility. But Indian Air Force chose 3.30 am local time to exploit the advantages to maximum effect when its Mirage 2000 fighter jets dropped bombs on JeM terrorist camp in Pakistan's Balakot. In less than 30 minutes, 12 Mirage 2000 fighter jets completed the job with precision by eliminating the terror camp, which had taken the responsibility for the Pulwama suicide attack in which at least 40 CRPF personnel were martyred. Though exact figures are not readily available, a large number of militants and their leaders and handlers (some reports put the figure between 200 and 300) were killed. &nbsp; 
 
Pakistan caught napping: Pakistan least expected India to cross the Line of Control and conduct airstrikes inside its territory. Pakistan knew of impending response from India in the wake of the outrage following the Pulwama terror attack. Expecting India to carry out another surgical attack following the Uri attack last year, it had moved away several terror launch pads and training facilities from the line of control dividing Kashmir. But the least it had expected that India will dare to launch air strikes on its soil. This is the first time India has resorted to aerial bombing over the disputed border since the 1971 war. Indian warplanes had not crossed the Line of Control even during the brief Kargil conflict in 1999. &nbsp;

Zero tolerance towards terrorism: A hard and decisive message has been delivered to Pakistan that India will not hesitate in taking punitive measures if the former continued with its malicious designs. India had earlier indicated a change of its approach when it carried out surgical strikes in Pakistan occupied Kashmir inflicting heavy casualties on terrorists 10 days after the Uri attack in which 18 Indian soldiers were killed. &nbsp;With Pakistan disregarding all calls from India and the world leaders to close terror camps operating from its soil and prevent infiltration of terrorists into Kashmir, such a reply was long overdue. &nbsp;

Prepared for escalation: The air strike also conveys Indian leadership’s readiness for an all-out confrontation if Pakistan chooses to escalate the situation. Thus far, New Delhi had been held hostage to Islamabad’s manipulation and the threat of use of nuclear weapons if India dared any limited strikes on Pakistan. It resisted the military response, despite the massive outcry back home, for fear of escalation of hostilities. But New Delhi has decided to bite the bullet by extracting revenge on both the occasions. This marks a tectonic shift from India’s earlier stand when it used to share information of terror attacks with Pakistan in the hope that the latter will live up to its promise and take any concrete action against the terrorist groups operating from its soil. &nbsp;

Message to the world: With the world leaders baulking at India’s repeated requests for concerted and timely action against terrorism, New Delhi has decided to walk the talk. India has also sent out a strong signal to the global community that enough is enough and it reserves the right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. India is unlikely to face any resistance given the global community’s strong condemnation of the Pulwama terror attacks and support to New Delhi. In fact, the US national security advisor John Bolton had gone on to say that Washington supported India's right to 'self-defence' from 'cross-border terrorism'.&nbsp;

What does it augur: There is no doubt that India’s military action has upped the ante and the world is concerned about the escalation of hostilities. The Indo-Pakistan relations have taken a severe hit and there does not seem a ray of hope of any betterment in the situation in the very near future. Any miscalculation by either of the two countries can bring them to the brink of a full-fledged war which does not augur well. Both countries should practice restraint and bide time to give peace another chance.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

India has dished out to Pakistan what it had been asking for years. Pakistan had been testing India’s patience by carrying out dastardly attacks through its band of home-grown terrorists in Kashmir and other parts of the country.

India has dished out to Pakistan what it had been asking for years. Pakistan had been testing India’s patience by carrying out dastardly attacks through its band of home-grown terrorists in Kashmir and other parts of the country. But for how long? It had to happen. India needed to give a strong reply to Pakistan to stop it in its tracks. For how long could Pakistan expect India to sit quietly as it went about continuing with its state policy of terror? A loud and clear message has been delivered to Pakistan that India will not hesitate in going inside the Pakistani territory to hunt out terrorists and their camps. Here are the key takeaways: Meticulous planning: The air strike was well-timed and carefully planned. It is not easy to carry out aerial attacks during the hours of darkness when operations get hampered due to lower visibility. But Indian Air Force chose 3.30 am local time to exploit the advantages to maximum effect when its Mirage 2000 fighter jets dropped bombs on JeM terrorist camp in Pakistan's Balakot. In less than 30 minutes, 12 Mirage 2000 fighter jets completed the job with precision by eliminating the terror camp, which had taken the responsibility for the Pulwama suicide attack in which at least 40 CRPF personnel were martyred. Though exact figures are not readily available, a large number of militants and their leaders and handlers (some reports put the figure between 200 and 300) were killed. Pakistan caught napping: Pakistan least expected India to cross the Line of Control and conduct airstrikes inside its territory. Pakistan knew of impending response from India in the wake of the outrage following the Pulwama terror attack. Expecting India to carry out another surgical attack following the Uri attack last year, it had moved away several terror launch pads and training facilities from the line of control dividing Kashmir. But the least it had expected that India will dare to launch air strikes on its soil. This is the first time India has resorted to aerial bombing over the disputed border since the 1971 war. Indian warplanes had not crossed the Line of Control even during the brief Kargil conflict in 1999. Zero tolerance towards terrorism: A hard and decisive message has been delivered to Pakistan that India will not hesitate in taking punitive measures if the former continued with its malicious designs. India had earlier indicated a change of its approach when it carried out surgical strikes in Pakistan occupied Kashmir inflicting heavy casualties on terrorists 10 days after the Uri attack in which 18 Indian soldiers were killed. With Pakistan disregarding all calls from India and the world leaders to close terror camps operating from its soil and prevent infiltration of terrorists into Kashmir, such a reply was long overdue. Prepared for escalation: The air strike also conveys Indian leadership’s readiness for an all-out confrontation if Pakistan chooses to escalate the situation. Thus far, New Delhi had been held hostage to Islamabad’s manipulation and the threat of use of nuclear weapons if India dared any limited strikes on Pakistan. It resisted the military response, despite the massive outcry back home, for fear of escalation of hostilities. But New Delhi has decided to bite the bullet by extracting revenge on both the occasions. This marks a tectonic shift from India’s earlier stand when it used to share information of terror attacks with Pakistan in the hope that the latter will live up to its promise and take any concrete action against the terrorist groups operating from its soil. Message to the world: With the world leaders baulking at India’s repeated requests for concerted and timely action against terrorism, New Delhi has decided to walk the talk. India has also sent out a strong signal to the global community that enough is enough and it reserves the right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. India is unlikely to face any resistance given the global community’s strong condemnation of the Pulwama terror attacks and support to New Delhi. In fact, the US national security advisor John Bolton had gone on to say that Washington supported India's right to 'self-defence' from 'cross-border terrorism'. What does it augur: There is no doubt that India’s military action has upped the ante and the world is concerned about the escalation of hostilities. The Indo-Pakistan relations have taken a severe hit and there does not seem a ray of hope of any betterment in the situation in the very near future. Any miscalculation by either of the two countries can bring them to the brink of a full-fledged war which does not augur well. Both countries should practice restraint and bide time to give peace another chance. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Balakot operation: India serves it right and tight to Pakistan

India has avenged the martyrdom of CRPF personnel in the Pulwama attack with its decisive and highly successful intelligence-led operation.

In a pre-dawn air strike, Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 jets flew inside the Pak territory and bombed the biggest training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot in Pakistan.

According to Vijay Gokhale, India’s Foreign Secretary, in the precise air strike that destroyed the terrorist training camp, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and jihadis who were being trained for fidayeen action were eliminated. This facility at Balakot was headed by Maulana Yousuf Azhar (alias Ustad Ghouri), the brother-in-law of JeM chief and India’s most wanted terrorist in Pakistan, Masood Azhar.

On February 14, CRPF personnel were martyred when a terrorist smashed a car-borne IED vehicle into a CRPF convoy on the Srinagar-Jammu highway in Pulwama district. JeM was quick to take responsibility for this attack.

In a major encounter the next day, security forces in Kashmir zeroed in and eliminated three terrorists, including the mastermind of this attack. In the gun battle that ensued, four army personnel were martyred.

Opposition leaders had started talking of the “timing” and were even accusing the Narendra Modi government and the ruling BJP of politicising the Pulwama attack ahead of the parliamentary election. The West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had taken the lead by launching a tirade against Modi on this count.

The scenario after Tuesday’s air strike has changed diametrically and leaders, who were briefed by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at an all-party meet about the blasting of JeM terror infrastructure in Pakistan, have congratulated the IAF. The main opposition Congress party has also said that it will support security forces in their effort to finish terrorism being exported from across the border.&nbsp;

Without directly mentioning the air strike and the bombing of the JeM terror camps in Pakistan, Prime Minister Modi, while addressing a BJP rally at Churu in Rajasthan on Tuesday said it is a day to celebrate. He was cheered and applauded by the people when he was emphatic in assuring the citizens that the country is in safe hands.

While giving Pakistan every chance to act against terror, Prime Minister Modi has continued to handle the problem with an iron fist. Two-and-half years ago, on 18 September 2016, four heavily armed Pakistani Islamic terrorists had attacked the Uri Army camp killing 19 soldiers. Within days of this attack, India had conducted surgical strikes and demolished a number of terrorist launch pads in Pak Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Coinciding with the punitive action by India after the Uri incident, Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the BJP National Council at Kozhikode in Kerala, had cautioned the people of Pakistan against their leaders saying they were reading the text prepared by those running terrorist outfits. While accepting the challenge of war, Modi had also underscored his priority stating that he would instead like the two countries to wage a war against poverty and illiteracy.

During the 33rd Session of the Human Rights Council in the second fortnight of September 2016, India had focussed global attention on Pakistan and its role in spreading terror by stating that the fundamental reason for disturbances in Kashmir is cross-border terrorism promoted by Pakistan.

Over the years, Indian soldiers were laying down their life and casualties have continued to mount in Jammu and Kashmir. Besides the Pak sponsored terror or the low-intensity war waged by Pakistan, the Kashmir valley also has been reeling under the impact of violence perpetuated by the large-scale radicalisation of the Kashmiri youth. The pattern is clear, while the terrorists operating from bases in Pakistan have been infiltrating into Jammu and Kashmir to strike targets in the trouble-torn state, the separatists have been working in tandem with their ISI handlers in Pakistan to radicalise the local youth being used to attack the security forces.

As there was a spurt in violent incidents and efforts had failed to ensure steps by Mehbooba Mufti, as chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, to stop the radicalisation of Kashmiri youth, Governor's rule was imposed in the trouble-torn state in June 2018 following the withdrawal of support to the then Mehbooba Mufti-led coalition government by the BJP.

JeM chief, Masood Azhar’s involvement in the 2001 Parliament attack, 2016 Pathankot attack, 2008 Mumbai attack and now the Pulwama attack has been established by the Indian authorities with evidence handed over to Pakistan to act appropriately in the war against terror. Masood Azhar was released by India in exchange for passengers of Indian Airlines flight 814 hijacked in December 1999.

Between 2004 and 2014, under the Congress-led UPA I and UPA II, the situation in Kashmir were allowed to drift and the proposals to strike targets inside Pakistan were swept under the carpet. The Modi-led NDA government’s decision to give a free hand to the defence forces and take direct action to demolish the terror infrastructure in Pakistan has led to an upsurge of support for Narendra Modi across India. Major countries are also on the same page with Modi when it comes to fighting terror.

India’s stand vis-a-vis war against terror has been underscored precisely by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at Beijing. In her opening remarks at the Foreign Ministers Meeting of Russia-India-China (RIC), she emphasised that Pakistan is a terror haven and went on to point out that the air strike in Pakistan was aimed against the JeM infrastructure and not against military installations. 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India has avenged the martyrdom of CRPF personnel in the Pulwama attack with its decisive and highly successful intelligence-led operation. In a pre-dawn air strike, Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 jets flew inside the Pak territory and bombed the biggest training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot in Pakistan.

India has avenged the martyrdom of CRPF personnel in the Pulwama attack with its decisive and highly successful intelligence-led operation. In a pre-dawn air strike, Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 jets flew inside the Pak territory and bombed the biggest training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Balakot in Pakistan. According to Vijay Gokhale, India’s Foreign Secretary, in the precise air strike that destroyed the terrorist training camp, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and jihadis who were being trained for fidayeen action were eliminated. This facility at Balakot was headed by Maulana Yousuf Azhar (alias Ustad Ghouri), the brother-in-law of JeM chief and India’s most wanted terrorist in Pakistan, Masood Azhar. On February 14, CRPF personnel were martyred when a terrorist smashed a car-borne IED vehicle into a CRPF convoy on the Srinagar-Jammu highway in Pulwama district. JeM was quick to take responsibility for this attack. In a major encounter the next day, security forces in Kashmir zeroed in and eliminated three terrorists, including the mastermind of this attack. In the gun battle that ensued, four army personnel were martyred. Opposition leaders had started talking of the “timing” and were even accusing the Narendra Modi government and the ruling BJP of politicising the Pulwama attack ahead of the parliamentary election. The West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had taken the lead by launching a tirade against Modi on this count. The scenario after Tuesday’s air strike has changed diametrically and leaders, who were briefed by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at an all-party meet about the blasting of JeM terror infrastructure in Pakistan, have congratulated the IAF. The main opposition Congress party has also said that it will support security forces in their effort to finish terrorism being exported from across the border. Without directly mentioning the air strike and the bombing of the JeM terror camps in Pakistan, Prime Minister Modi, while addressing a BJP rally at Churu in Rajasthan on Tuesday said it is a day to celebrate. He was cheered and applauded by the people when he was emphatic in assuring the citizens that the country is in safe hands. While giving Pakistan every chance to act against terror, Prime Minister Modi has continued to handle the problem with an iron fist. Two-and-half years ago, on 18 September 2016, four heavily armed Pakistani Islamic terrorists had attacked the Uri Army camp killing 19 soldiers. Within days of this attack, India had conducted surgical strikes and demolished a number of terrorist launch pads in Pak Occupied Kashmir (PoK). Coinciding with the punitive action by India after the Uri incident, Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the BJP National Council at Kozhikode in Kerala, had cautioned the people of Pakistan against their leaders saying they were reading the text prepared by those running terrorist outfits. While accepting the challenge of war, Modi had also underscored his priority stating that he would instead like the two countries to wage a war against poverty and illiteracy. During the 33rd Session of the Human Rights Council in the second fortnight of September 2016, India had focussed global attention on Pakistan and its role in spreading terror by stating that the fundamental reason for disturbances in Kashmir is cross-border terrorism promoted by Pakistan. Over the years, Indian soldiers were laying down their life and casualties have continued to mount in Jammu and Kashmir. Besides the Pak sponsored terror or the low-intensity war waged by Pakistan, the Kashmir valley also has been reeling under the impact of violence perpetuated by the large-scale radicalisation of the Kashmiri youth. The pattern is clear, while the terrorists operating from bases in Pakistan have been infiltrating into Jammu and Kashmir to strike targets in the trouble-torn state, the separatists have been working in tandem with their ISI handlers in Pakistan to radicalise the local youth being used to attack the security forces. As there was a spurt in violent incidents and efforts had failed to ensure steps by Mehbooba Mufti, as chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, to stop the radicalisation of Kashmiri youth, Governor's rule was imposed in the trouble-torn state in June 2018 following the withdrawal of support to the then Mehbooba Mufti-led coalition government by the BJP. JeM chief, Masood Azhar’s involvement in the 2001 Parliament attack, 2016 Pathankot attack, 2008 Mumbai attack and now the Pulwama attack has been established by the Indian authorities with evidence handed over to Pakistan to act appropriately in the war against terror. Masood Azhar was released by India in exchange for passengers of Indian Airlines flight 814 hijacked in December 1999. Between 2004 and 2014, under the Congress-led UPA I and UPA II, the situation in Kashmir were allowed to drift and the proposals to strike targets inside Pakistan were swept under the carpet. The Modi-led NDA government’s decision to give a free hand to the defence forces and take direct action to demolish the terror infrastructure in Pakistan has led to an upsurge of support for Narendra Modi across India. Major countries are also on the same page with Modi when it comes to fighting terror. India’s stand vis-a-vis war against terror has been underscored precisely by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at Beijing. In her opening remarks at the Foreign Ministers Meeting of Russia-India-China (RIC), she emphasised that Pakistan is a terror haven and went on to point out that the air strike in Pakistan was aimed against the JeM infrastructure and not against military installations. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

IAF's Balakot operation against JeM is proof of Narendra Modi government's decisiveness

As a political commentator, most discussions with people hover around General Election 2019. And, the million-dollar question which comes up is inevitably this &nbsp;— ‘kiski sarkar banegi’ (who will form the next government).

Elections are difficult to predict in a country as vast and unique as India. Opinion polls are predicting a hung house with NDA as the single, largest pre-poll coalition. Under the circumstances, five factors, which put BJP in a pole position to form the next government at the Centre, need to be highlighted. The General Election in India is increasingly becoming Presidential style. Though Rahul has been catching up with Modi on the popularity ratings, the Prime Minister is still comfortably ahead with a 10 per cent to 14 per cent lead.

With just a couple of months to go for election, this lead is substantial. Even in opinion polls, which predict a hung house situation, 60 per cent respondents want to give the NDA another chance to form the government.

The second reason is that pan-India, the Mahagathbandhan has not shaped up yet. The opposition’s dream of organising one-on-one contests on the 1977 model, has not worked out. Bua and Babua (aunt Mayawati and nephew Akhilesh Yadav) have left out Congress from the UP grand alliance.

Congress has decided it will go alone in West Bengal, Andhra, and Telangana. In Kerala, the Left cannot form an alliance with Congress and neither can Biju ally with the grand old party in Odisha.

In Delhi, AAP and Congress have not been able to sink their differences, while Haryana is likely to see a multi-cornered contest like in the recent by-polls. There is no news of settlement with AIUDF in Assam and neither is PDP expected to join the National Conference-Congress combine in Jammu and Kashmir.

UPA hasn’t expanded much, the only notable inclusion being Janata Dal-Secular in Karnataka. In Bihar and Jharkhand, some small regional parties have joined the UPA, but they are not expected to significantly change the electoral dynamics. If anything, they have increased headaches over seat distribution.

On the other hand, BJP has managed to cool Shiv Sena and added AIADMK into the NDA fold in Tamil Nadu, which may prevent a DMK sweep.

Thirdly, many regional parties have no option, but to back BJP or abstain during the confidence vote, if it comes down to it.

There are several regional parties whose entire politics has been based on anti-Congressism in their home state, as that is the principal opposition party.

These include Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal, KCR’s Telangana Rashtriya Samiti and Jagan Reddy’s YSR Congress, to name a few.

Jagan and Rahul/Sonia share an acrimonious relationship. KCR and Rahul can’t see eye to eye. Some of these parties have been helping NDA pass important legislations and register victories in the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman elections.

These three parties are expected to bag 41, 38 and 43 seats respectively, as per three well-known TV channel surveys conducted in January 2019. This could compensate for some of the losses of BJP in the states where it peaked in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

Fourthly, the Congress party won just 44 seats in 2014, while UPA could muster only 59. Some opinion polls are projecting 166-167 seats for UPA. Their gains are primarily coming from Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Jharkhand.BJP has firmed up alliances in Maharashtra (Shiv Sena) and Bihar (JDU+LJP) and is most likely to retain its 2014 tally, as per polls, with minor losses.

Four states, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, where the Congress put up a good fight or won recently in state elections, will see a direct contest between the BJP and the Grand Old Party.

These states account for 91 seats with BJP sweeping 88 out of these in 2014. Based on extrapolation of state election results, Congress could gain 30-40 seats here.

These states account for another 245 seats (45 per cent) where bulk of the gains are expected.

Still, the UPA is expected to fall 60-70 seats short of NDA. Nobody, even anti-BJP brigade at this point of time, is predicting that UPA will cross NDA.

Lastly, Congress is raising issues, but not providing solutions. It has raised the Rafale issue, but even surveys predicting a hung Parliament, show that this may not be working with the public.

Unless the Congress comes up with specific bribery allegations, this will not work. The party has raised the issue of farmer distress and unemployment but has not come up yet with specific solutions.

To sum up, while there is a lot of hoopla&nbsp;over a hung house, all latest polls show NDA ahead and within striking distance of forming the government. The narrative of “55 years versus 55 months” is likely to propel NDA and Modi back to power.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-55-years-versus-55-months-2724414">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

 
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As a political commentator, most discussions with people hover around General Election 2019. And, the million-dollar question which comes up is inevitably this — ‘kiski sarkar banegi’ (who will form the next government).

As a political commentator, most discussions with people hover around General Election 2019. And, the million-dollar question which comes up is inevitably this — ‘kiski sarkar banegi’ (who will form the next government). Elections are difficult to predict in a country as vast and unique as India. Opinion polls are predicting a hung house with NDA as the single, largest pre-poll coalition. Under the circumstances, five factors, which put BJP in a pole position to form the next government at the Centre, need to be highlighted. The General Election in India is increasingly becoming Presidential style. Though Rahul has been catching up with Modi on the popularity ratings, the Prime Minister is still comfortably ahead with a 10 per cent to 14 per cent lead. With just a couple of months to go for election, this lead is substantial. Even in opinion polls, which predict a hung house situation, 60 per cent respondents want to give the NDA another chance to form the government. The second reason is that pan-India, the Mahagathbandhan has not shaped up yet. The opposition’s dream of organising one-on-one contests on the 1977 model, has not worked out. Bua and Babua (aunt Mayawati and nephew Akhilesh Yadav) have left out Congress from the UP grand alliance. Congress has decided it will go alone in West Bengal, Andhra, and Telangana. In Kerala, the Left cannot form an alliance with Congress and neither can Biju ally with the grand old party in Odisha. In Delhi, AAP and Congress have not been able to sink their differences, while Haryana is likely to see a multi-cornered contest like in the recent by-polls. There is no news of settlement with AIUDF in Assam and neither is PDP expected to join the National Conference-Congress combine in Jammu and Kashmir. UPA hasn’t expanded much, the only notable inclusion being Janata Dal-Secular in Karnataka. In Bihar and Jharkhand, some small regional parties have joined the UPA, but they are not expected to significantly change the electoral dynamics. If anything, they have increased headaches over seat distribution. On the other hand, BJP has managed to cool Shiv Sena and added AIADMK into the NDA fold in Tamil Nadu, which may prevent a DMK sweep. Thirdly, many regional parties have no option, but to back BJP or abstain during the confidence vote, if it comes down to it. There are several regional parties whose entire politics has been based on anti-Congressism in their home state, as that is the principal opposition party. These include Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal, KCR’s Telangana Rashtriya Samiti and Jagan Reddy’s YSR Congress, to name a few. Jagan and Rahul/Sonia share an acrimonious relationship. KCR and Rahul can’t see eye to eye. Some of these parties have been helping NDA pass important legislations and register victories in the Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman elections. These three parties are expected to bag 41, 38 and 43 seats respectively, as per three well-known TV channel surveys conducted in January 2019. This could compensate for some of the losses of BJP in the states where it peaked in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Fourthly, the Congress party won just 44 seats in 2014, while UPA could muster only 59. Some opinion polls are projecting 166-167 seats for UPA. Their gains are primarily coming from Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Jharkhand.BJP has firmed up alliances in Maharashtra (Shiv Sena) and Bihar (JDU+LJP) and is most likely to retain its 2014 tally, as per polls, with minor losses. Four states, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, where the Congress put up a good fight or won recently in state elections, will see a direct contest between the BJP and the Grand Old Party. These states account for 91 seats with BJP sweeping 88 out of these in 2014. Based on extrapolation of state election results, Congress could gain 30-40 seats here. These states account for another 245 seats (45 per cent) where bulk of the gains are expected. Still, the UPA is expected to fall 60-70 seats short of NDA. Nobody, even anti-BJP brigade at this point of time, is predicting that UPA will cross NDA. Lastly, Congress is raising issues, but not providing solutions. It has raised the Rafale issue, but even surveys predicting a hung Parliament, show that this may not be working with the public. Unless the Congress comes up with specific bribery allegations, this will not work. The party has raised the issue of farmer distress and unemployment but has not come up yet with specific solutions. To sum up, while there is a lot of hoopla over a hung house, all latest polls show NDA ahead and within striking distance of forming the government. The narrative of “55 years versus 55 months” is likely to propel NDA and Modi back to power. (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.)

Lok Sabha elections 2019: Differences among opposition parties strengthen NDA's chances of coming back to power

Having played cricket for long, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan knows that delivery is called out for a no-ball only when he crosses the crease at the bowler's end in a certain manner as per the rules of the game. The 'Surgical Strike 2.0' launched in the early hours of this Tuesday are such that an international umpire cannot easily raise his hand horizontally and cry out a 'No', because the territory into which a dozen Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jets flew into is arguably blessed by international diplomatic procedures.

The strike on Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistani territory is controversial no doubt, but it appears that India has a case for hot-pursuit as an extension of its defence of Kashmir, including the portion that India describes as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The details of PoK are often not discussed because most of the attention is usually on the Indian side, thanks to terror attacks and political turmoil. Last week, when Khan went on his country's national television to ask for proof after the Pulwama attack that killed dozens of Central Reserve Police Force soldiers and assert that his nation would retaliate if India attacked Pakistan, he was bowling what in his own paceman's terminology would qualify as an in-swinger from outside the off stump.&nbsp;

Islamabad has long played on the fact that Jammu and Kashmir is a disputed territory to score diplomatic points, and India has traditionally been low-key because it has never felt the need to prove anything by raising that point.

What is often lost in this strange mix of noise and studied silence is that the Pakistani side of Kashmir is as disputed by India as the Indian side of the LoC (Line of Control) is challenged by Pakistan.

Now, what happens when - as it did in Pulwama - a Kashmiri youth launches a suicide bomb attack with a big pile of deadly RDX? We all know that without the support of explicitly Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, he could not have brought in that kind of ammunition. We know that such support in terms of logistics and resources cannot be marshalled without institutional support from a body like the Pakistan Army or its Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).&nbsp;

Yet, given the fact that it was a Kashmiri who fronted the attack, in diplomatic terms, Islamabad would use that card to claim in international forums that the attack was part of an autonomous struggle of Kashmiris for self-determination (conveniently forgetting that such a logic can also apply to Balochistan in Pakistan). Pakistan's ISI-backed attacks typically come from outside India but move in through the disputed territory - making it a diplomatic in-swinger, as it were.

What has happened this Tuesday is an Indian googly to counter Imran's in-swinger. JeM has been operating out of Bahawalpur in Pakistani Punjab - in a proven manner. If India crosses through to Balakot past the LoC in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the follow-through from PoK, as it has, you could say the response is symmetrical. Also, it is pertinent to remember that US Navy Seals attacked Abbottabad well inside Pakistan to kill Osama Bin Laden of al Qaeda. There is therefore not much that Washington can say or do as India can always cite that as a precedent.

There is no doubt that this week's action is pre-emptive, visible, more daring and more open than the 'Surgical Strike 1.0' that took place after the Uri attack in 2016. In diplomatic terms, this means that just like the Pulwama attack, this is happening broadly as an extension of a disputed region in addition to the fact that it is dealing with terrorism and not a conventional army attack.

There is a shrewd move by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in this. You could call it a calculated risk. However, statements from President Donald Trump and support from 48 countries including Germany have clearly signalled support for India to defend its territory and strike against terror.

While glib parallels may be drawn between Israeli attacks on Palestinian territory and India's surgical strikes, it is important to understand that in India's case, there is a much higher legitimacy in international diplomatic terms. It is not surprising therefore that BJP parliamentarian Subramanian Swamy has been quick to claim that "we bombed our own territory."&nbsp;

Ordinary Indians do not know some facts on Kashmir, such as how India "returned" to Pakistan the Haji Pir Pass after their war over the region in 1965. The return is a controversial one for obvious reasons as India's soldiers had captured the pass after a valiant battle to check one of the vital hubs of militant infiltration into Indian territory. Under talks held between Pakistani leaders and then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in January 1966 at Tashkent (just before his sudden and mysterious death), India returned the Haji Pir pass to Pakistan for what military analysts say is a strategic reason, to make the Jammu region safer.

The decision remains controversial as India did not take the pass again in 1971, but the give-and-take pursued by India then gives it a diplomatic lever to show how it did not shy away from talks, except under the shadow of terror.

Events in the 1980s and 1990s, when the territorial war between two armies became restated as a proxy war by Pakistan under military dictator Zia ul-Haq, have totally changed the complexion of the relations between two countries as conventional diplomacy as well as conventional war have less meaning where "non-state" actors like Jaish-e-Mohammed and their movement across the porous LoC are involved.

For India, the military googly bowled on Tuesday remains a calculated risk as Imran Khan is unlikely to take it silently. But this much can be said: in international law and convention, India has a stronger case than some critics think.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The Zee News. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/balakot-airstrike-is-indias-googly-response-to-imran-khans-in-swinger-2183673.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Having played cricket for long, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan knows that delivery is called out for a no-ball only when he crosses the crease at the bowler's end in a certain manner as per the rules of the game.

Having played cricket for long, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan knows that delivery is called out for a no-ball only when he crosses the crease at the bowler's end in a certain manner as per the rules of the game. The 'Surgical Strike 2.0' launched in the early hours of this Tuesday are such that an international umpire cannot easily raise his hand horizontally and cry out a 'No', because the territory into which a dozen Indian Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jets flew into is arguably blessed by international diplomatic procedures. The strike on Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistani territory is controversial no doubt, but it appears that India has a case for hot-pursuit as an extension of its defence of Kashmir, including the portion that India describes as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The details of PoK are often not discussed because most of the attention is usually on the Indian side, thanks to terror attacks and political turmoil. Last week, when Khan went on his country's national television to ask for proof after the Pulwama attack that killed dozens of Central Reserve Police Force soldiers and assert that his nation would retaliate if India attacked Pakistan, he was bowling what in his own paceman's terminology would qualify as an in-swinger from outside the off stump. Islamabad has long played on the fact that Jammu and Kashmir is a disputed territory to score diplomatic points, and India has traditionally been low-key because it has never felt the need to prove anything by raising that point. What is often lost in this strange mix of noise and studied silence is that the Pakistani side of Kashmir is as disputed by India as the Indian side of the LoC (Line of Control) is challenged by Pakistan. Now, what happens when - as it did in Pulwama - a Kashmiri youth launches a suicide bomb attack with a big pile of deadly RDX? We all know that without the support of explicitly Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, he could not have brought in that kind of ammunition. We know that such support in terms of logistics and resources cannot be marshalled without institutional support from a body like the Pakistan Army or its Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Yet, given the fact that it was a Kashmiri who fronted the attack, in diplomatic terms, Islamabad would use that card to claim in international forums that the attack was part of an autonomous struggle of Kashmiris for self-determination (conveniently forgetting that such a logic can also apply to Balochistan in Pakistan). Pakistan's ISI-backed attacks typically come from outside India but move in through the disputed territory - making it a diplomatic in-swinger, as it were. What has happened this Tuesday is an Indian googly to counter Imran's in-swinger. JeM has been operating out of Bahawalpur in Pakistani Punjab - in a proven manner. If India crosses through to Balakot past the LoC in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the follow-through from PoK, as it has, you could say the response is symmetrical. Also, it is pertinent to remember that US Navy Seals attacked Abbottabad well inside Pakistan to kill Osama Bin Laden of al Qaeda. There is therefore not much that Washington can say or do as India can always cite that as a precedent. There is no doubt that this week's action is pre-emptive, visible, more daring and more open than the 'Surgical Strike 1.0' that took place after the Uri attack in 2016. In diplomatic terms, this means that just like the Pulwama attack, this is happening broadly as an extension of a disputed region in addition to the fact that it is dealing with terrorism and not a conventional army attack. There is a shrewd move by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in this. You could call it a calculated risk. However, statements from President Donald Trump and support from 48 countries including Germany have clearly signalled support for India to defend its territory and strike against terror. While glib parallels may be drawn between Israeli attacks on Palestinian territory and India's surgical strikes, it is important to understand that in India's case, there is a much higher legitimacy in international diplomatic terms. It is not surprising therefore that BJP parliamentarian Subramanian Swamy has been quick to claim that "we bombed our own territory." Ordinary Indians do not know some facts on Kashmir, such as how India "returned" to Pakistan the Haji Pir Pass after their war over the region in 1965. The return is a controversial one for obvious reasons as India's soldiers had captured the pass after a valiant battle to check one of the vital hubs of militant infiltration into Indian territory. Under talks held between Pakistani leaders and then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in January 1966 at Tashkent (just before his sudden and mysterious death), India returned the Haji Pir pass to Pakistan for what military analysts say is a strategic reason, to make the Jammu region safer. The decision remains controversial as India did not take the pass again in 1971, but the give-and-take pursued by India then gives it a diplomatic lever to show how it did not shy away from talks, except under the shadow of terror. Events in the 1980s and 1990s, when the territorial war between two armies became restated as a proxy war by Pakistan under military dictator Zia ul-Haq, have totally changed the complexion of the relations between two countries as conventional diplomacy as well as conventional war have less meaning where "non-state" actors like Jaish-e-Mohammed and their movement across the porous LoC are involved. For India, the military googly bowled on Tuesday remains a calculated risk as Imran Khan is unlikely to take it silently. But this much can be said: in international law and convention, India has a stronger case than some critics think. (This article was originally published on The Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Balakot air strike is India's googly response to Imran Khan's in-swinger

The bombing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist pad in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan, has broken India’s reticence to use Air Force in an unconventional war which it has been subjected to by Pakistan.&nbsp;

India did not use Air Force against China in 1962 out of fear of escalating the war. Even during the Kargil war in 1999, Indian fighter jets&nbsp;not once crossed the LoC.&nbsp;

Last time Indian fighters crossed into Pakistan was in 1971 when India won hands down and Bangladesh was born. 
 
By using nuclear capable and upgraded Mirage 2000, India has called the nuclear bluff of Pakistan. These planes have the proven capability of flying below the radars and can target beyond visual ranges. The fighters can automatically track and target moving targets as well. In 2008, after the Mumbai attack, Mirage 2000 squadron was kept on standby to attack posts inside PoK, but the final call was not taken.

Mumbai did not become the inflexion point despite higher casualties but Pulwama attack did.

The nuclear bluff had deterred Indian military establishment for the past three decades from using air assets. The defence world suffered from caginess when it came to using the Air Force as an option to hit Pakistan. The very idea of the use of the Air Force created the fear of escalation which eventually would go beyond India’s control. Balakot operation has ended the debate. 
 
The air strike has also sent the message to Pakistan that lost cost war, being waged by them in Kashmir, will turn into a high-cost affair if terror activities continue.

Though this strike is no guarantee against a terror attack, but it definitely showcases India’s resolve to use any means including Air Force against Pakistan.&nbsp;

The bottom line is that India has put conventional might back into the game which Pakistan has been dismissing for a long time on a presumption that nuclear nations will not engage in conventional hostility.

The reaction of the Indian government has been restrained so that it doesn't provide anymore provocation to Islamabad.

India categorically stated on Tuesday that it was a preemptive strike to defend itself from the Jihadi elements from across the border. Under the Charter of the United Nations, Article 51 clearly states that countries have the right to self-defence. It is for this reason, India asserted that it was a non-military strike and civilians were not harmed. This time India took a giant leap but silently.

On top of it, lies the importance of Balakot located in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, which is Pakistan and not Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). India by hitting the JeM terrorist camp not only demonstrated its technical capability to hit deep inside Pakistan but also created a new military paradigm whereby terrorist targets deep inside Pakistan from now on would be considered legitimate targets by the Indian military.&nbsp;

Balakot also has a history. In 1831, Maharaja Ranjit Singh eliminated Islamic forces of Syed Ahmed. Maulana Masood Azhar set up his camp in Balakot after his release in 2001. It was here that the conspiracy to bomb Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was hatched. Unlike the last time when India conducted surgical strikes inside POK, this time India has signalled broadening of operations all across Pakistan. 
 
Lastly, by hitting out again, India has shown that it will take unilateral action against Pakistan even if the international community has different views on it. This message has gone all across the world. It was long needed but pending as previous political establishment was strategically lazy in dealing with Pak terror. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The bombing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist pad in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan, has broken India’s reticence to use Air Force in an unconventional war which it has been subjected to by Pakistan.

The bombing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist pad in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan, has broken India’s reticence to use Air Force in an unconventional war which it has been subjected to by Pakistan. India did not use Air Force against China in 1962 out of fear of escalating the war. Even during the Kargil war in 1999, Indian fighter jets not once crossed the LoC. Last time Indian fighters crossed into Pakistan was in 1971 when India won hands down and Bangladesh was born. By using nuclear capable and upgraded Mirage 2000, India has called the nuclear bluff of Pakistan. These planes have the proven capability of flying below the radars and can target beyond visual ranges. The fighters can automatically track and target moving targets as well. In 2008, after the Mumbai attack, Mirage 2000 squadron was kept on standby to attack posts inside PoK, but the final call was not taken. Mumbai did not become the inflexion point despite higher casualties but Pulwama attack did. The nuclear bluff had deterred Indian military establishment for the past three decades from using air assets. The defence world suffered from caginess when it came to using the Air Force as an option to hit Pakistan. The very idea of the use of the Air Force created the fear of escalation which eventually would go beyond India’s control. Balakot operation has ended the debate. The air strike has also sent the message to Pakistan that lost cost war, being waged by them in Kashmir, will turn into a high-cost affair if terror activities continue. Though this strike is no guarantee against a terror attack, but it definitely showcases India’s resolve to use any means including Air Force against Pakistan. The bottom line is that India has put conventional might back into the game which Pakistan has been dismissing for a long time on a presumption that nuclear nations will not engage in conventional hostility. The reaction of the Indian government has been restrained so that it doesn't provide anymore provocation to Islamabad. India categorically stated on Tuesday that it was a preemptive strike to defend itself from the Jihadi elements from across the border. Under the Charter of the United Nations, Article 51 clearly states that countries have the right to self-defence. It is for this reason, India asserted that it was a non-military strike and civilians were not harmed. This time India took a giant leap but silently. On top of it, lies the importance of Balakot located in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, which is Pakistan and not Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK). India by hitting the JeM terrorist camp not only demonstrated its technical capability to hit deep inside Pakistan but also created a new military paradigm whereby terrorist targets deep inside Pakistan from now on would be considered legitimate targets by the Indian military. Balakot also has a history. In 1831, Maharaja Ranjit Singh eliminated Islamic forces of Syed Ahmed. Maulana Masood Azhar set up his camp in Balakot after his release in 2001. It was here that the conspiracy to bomb Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was hatched. Unlike the last time when India conducted surgical strikes inside POK, this time India has signalled broadening of operations all across Pakistan. Lastly, by hitting out again, India has shown that it will take unilateral action against Pakistan even if the international community has different views on it. This message has gone all across the world. It was long needed but pending as previous political establishment was strategically lazy in dealing with Pak terror. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

IAF operation in Balakot: India calls Pakistan’s nuclear bluff

IAF strike on JeM camps: Country is in safe hands, says PM Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-kumbh-modi-washes-feet-of-safai-karamcharis-twitter-is-agog-199537">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> Sunday suspended his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' broadcast for March and April, and said he will be back with the programme on the last Sunday of May, by when results of the Lok Sabha elections are expected to be declared.

In this monthly address through the radio broadcast -- the 53rd since Modi came to power in 2014 -- he said he was doing so keeping in mind healthy democratic traditions.

"Elections are the biggest celebration of democracy. In the next two months, we will be busy in the hurly-burly of the general elections. I myself will also be a candidate. Respecting healthy democratic traditions, the next episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' will be broadcast on the last Sunday (May 26) of May," Modi said.&nbsp;

Opposition parties have in the past demanded stopping the broadcast of Mann ki Baat during elections, saying it violated the model code of conduct as the interaction amounted to the misuse of the prime minister's programme for political purposes. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Sounding confident of his return to power, he said he will begin the series of conversations under the programme from May with the "power of your blessings" and will keep speaking to people through 'Mann ki Baat' for years.

The fate of Modi's 'Mann ki Baat' broadcast will depend on the results of the Lok Sabha elections as the programme will continue only if he is reelected and becomes prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday suspended his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' broadcast for March and April, and said he will be back with the programme on the last Sunday of May, by when results of the Lok Sabha elections are expected to be declared.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday suspended his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' broadcast for March and April, and said he will be back with the programme on the last Sunday of May, by when results of the Lok Sabha elections are expected to be declared. In this monthly address through the radio broadcast -- the 53rd since Modi came to power in 2014 -- he said he was doing so keeping in mind healthy democratic traditions. "Elections are the biggest celebration of democracy. In the next two months, we will be busy in the hurly-burly of the general elections. I myself will also be a candidate. Respecting healthy democratic traditions, the next episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' will be broadcast on the last Sunday (May 26) of May," Modi said. Opposition parties have in the past demanded stopping the broadcast of Mann ki Baat during elections, saying it violated the model code of conduct as the interaction amounted to the misuse of the prime minister's programme for political purposes. Sounding confident of his return to power, he said he will begin the series of conversations under the programme from May with the "power of your blessings" and will keep speaking to people through 'Mann ki Baat' for years. The fate of Modi's 'Mann ki Baat' broadcast will depend on the results of the Lok Sabha elections as the programme will continue only if he is reelected and becomes prime minister.

PM Modi says no 'Mann ki Baat' for 2 months, promises to be back in May

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday asked his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-india-blaming-pakistan-without-evidence-says-imran-khan-198266">give peace a chance</a>" and assured him that he "stands by" his words and will "immediately act" if New Delhi provides Islamabad with "actionable intelligence" on the Pulwama attack.

Khan's remarks came a day after Modi in a rally in Rajasthan said, "There is consensus in the entire world against terrorism. We are moving ahead with strength to punish the perpetrators of terrorism...The scores will be settled this time, settled for good...This is a changed India, this pain will not be tolerated...We know how to crush terrorism."&nbsp;

Recalling his conversation with Khan during a congratulatory call after he became Pakistan's premier, Modi said he told him "let us fight against poverty and illiteracy" and Khan gave his word - saying he is a Pathan's son - but went back on it.

A statement released by the Pakistan Prime Minister's Office said, "PM Imran Khan stand by his words that if India gives us actionable intelligence, we will immediately act."&nbsp;

PM Modi should "give peace a chance", Khan said in the statement.&nbsp;

Earlier on February 19 also, Khan assured India that he would act against the perpetrators of the deadly Pulwama terror attack, carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror group, if it shares "actionable intelligence" with Islamabad, but warned New Delhi against launching any "revenge" retaliatory action.

India said Khan's offer to investigate the attack if provided proof is a "lame excuse".

"It is a well-known fact that Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar are based in Pakistan. These should be sufficient proof for Pakistan to take action," the Ministry of External Affairs said.

"The Prime Minister of Pakistan has offered to investigate the matter if India provides proof. This is a lame excuse. In the horrific attack in Mumbai on 26/11, proof was provided to Pakistan.&nbsp;

Despite this, the case has not progressed for the last more than 10 years. Likewise, on the terror attack on Pathankot airbase, there has been no progress. Promises of 'guaranteed action' ring hollow given the track record of Pakistan," it said.

Khan said during his meeting with Modi in December 2015, "we had agreed that since poverty alleviation is a priority for our region, we would not allow any terrorist incident to derail peace efforts, however, long before Pulwama, these efforts were derailed in September 2018".

 
The Pakistani premier was referring to India calling off the foreign minister-level talks with Pakistan in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in September last year after following the "brutal" killing of three BSF jawans by Pakistani soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir as well as the release of postal stamps "glorifying" Kashmiri militant Burhan Wani by the Pakistan government.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday asked his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to "give peace a chance" and assured him that he "stands by" his words and will "immediately act" if New Delhi provides Islamabad with "actionable intelligence" on the Pulwama attack.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday asked his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to "give peace a chance" and assured him that he "stands by" his words and will "immediately act" if New Delhi provides Islamabad with "actionable intelligence" on the Pulwama attack. Khan's remarks came a day after Modi in a rally in Rajasthan said, "There is consensus in the entire world against terrorism. We are moving ahead with strength to punish the perpetrators of terrorism...The scores will be settled this time, settled for good...This is a changed India, this pain will not be tolerated...We know how to crush terrorism." Recalling his conversation with Khan during a congratulatory call after he became Pakistan's premier, Modi said he told him "let us fight against poverty and illiteracy" and Khan gave his word - saying he is a Pathan's son - but went back on it. A statement released by the Pakistan Prime Minister's Office said, "PM Imran Khan stand by his words that if India gives us actionable intelligence, we will immediately act." PM Modi should "give peace a chance", Khan said in the statement. Earlier on February 19 also, Khan assured India that he would act against the perpetrators of the deadly Pulwama terror attack, carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror group, if it shares "actionable intelligence" with Islamabad, but warned New Delhi against launching any "revenge" retaliatory action. India said Khan's offer to investigate the attack if provided proof is a "lame excuse". "It is a well-known fact that Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader Masood Azhar are based in Pakistan. These should be sufficient proof for Pakistan to take action," the Ministry of External Affairs said. "The Prime Minister of Pakistan has offered to investigate the matter if India provides proof. This is a lame excuse. In the horrific attack in Mumbai on 26/11, proof was provided to Pakistan. Despite this, the case has not progressed for the last more than 10 years. Likewise, on the terror attack on Pathankot airbase, there has been no progress. Promises of 'guaranteed action' ring hollow given the track record of Pakistan," it said. Khan said during his meeting with Modi in December 2015, "we had agreed that since poverty alleviation is a priority for our region, we would not allow any terrorist incident to derail peace efforts, however, long before Pulwama, these efforts were derailed in September 2018". The Pakistani premier was referring to India calling off the foreign minister-level talks with Pakistan in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in September last year after following the "brutal" killing of three BSF jawans by Pakistani soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir as well as the release of postal stamps "glorifying" Kashmiri militant Burhan Wani by the Pakistan government.

Give peace a chance: Pakistan's Imran Khan to PM Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-delay-china-tariff-increase-trump-199444">Trump says he is delaying tariff increase on Chinese goods</a>

The United States is delaying a planned increase of tariffs on more than $200 billion in Chinese exports after both sides hailed "substantial progress" made in trade talks.

US President Donald Trump also said Sunday that he planned to hold a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping at his Florida estate Mar-a-Lago to ink a deal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2019-live-hollywoods-biggest-night-is-here-199432">Oscars 2019, Live: India-based 'Period: End Of Sentence' wins </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2019-live-hollywoods-biggest-night-is-here-199432">best</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2019-live-hollywoods-biggest-night-is-here-199432"> documentary short award</a>

Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga get a standing ovation as they sing a mesmerising version of 'Shallow' from their film 'A Star Is Born'.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/give-peace-a-chance-imran-khan-to-pm-modi-199487">Give peace a chance: Imran Khan to PM Modi</a>

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday asked his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to "give peace a chance" and assured him that he "stands by" his words and will "immediately act" if New Delhi provides Islamabad with "actionable intelligence" on the Pulwama attack.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/popes-vow-to-battle-child-sex-abuse-fails-to-appease-victims-199463">Pope vows to battle child sex abuse by </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/popes-vow-to-battle-child-sex-abuse-fails-to-appease-victims-199463">Catholic</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/popes-vow-to-battle-child-sex-abuse-fails-to-appease-victims-199463"> church but fails to appease victims</a>

Pope Francis on Sunday vowed to tackle every single case of sexual abuse by priests, comparing paedophilia to "human sacrifice", but drew an angry response from victims.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-red-carpet-jennifer-lopez-chadwick-boseman-rami-malek-turn-up-the-heat-199465#rami-malek-and-lucy-boynton-199433">Oscars red carpet: Jennifer Lopez, Chadwick Boseman, Rami Malek turn up the heat</a>

The 91st Academy Awards kickstarted on a glamorous note as Hollywood biggies arrived at the red carpet. From Best Actor nominee Rami Malek to Chadwick Boseman who starred in the hit film 'Black Panther', the boys gave the girls a stiff competition.&nbsp;

Trump says he is delaying tariff increase on Chinese goods The United States is delaying a planned increase of tariffs on more than $200 billion in Chinese exports after both sides hailed "substantial progress" made in trade talks.

Trump says he is delaying tariff increase on Chinese goods The United States is delaying a planned increase of tariffs on more than $200 billion in Chinese exports after both sides hailed "substantial progress" made in trade talks. US President Donald Trump also said Sunday that he planned to hold a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping at his Florida estate Mar-a-Lago to ink a deal. Oscars 2019, Live: India-based 'Period: End Of Sentence' wins best documentary short award Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga get a standing ovation as they sing a mesmerising version of 'Shallow' from their film 'A Star Is Born'. Give peace a chance: Imran Khan to PM Modi Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday asked his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi to "give peace a chance" and assured him that he "stands by" his words and will "immediately act" if New Delhi provides Islamabad with "actionable intelligence" on the Pulwama attack. Pope vows to battle child sex abuse by Catholic church but fails to appease victims Pope Francis on Sunday vowed to tackle every single case of sexual abuse by priests, comparing paedophilia to "human sacrifice", but drew an angry response from victims. Oscars red carpet: Jennifer Lopez, Chadwick Boseman, Rami Malek turn up the heat The 91st Academy Awards kickstarted on a glamorous note as Hollywood biggies arrived at the red carpet. From Best Actor nominee Rami Malek to Chadwick Boseman who starred in the hit film 'Black Panther', the boys gave the girls a stiff competition.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the National War Memorial in New Delhi's India gate circle and dedicated it to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.&nbsp;

While addressing the event, Modi paid tribute to the brave soldiers who lost their lives in Pulwama attack and all those bravehearts who sacrifice themselves for protection of India.

“The demand for a National War Memorial has been there for many decades, in the last decade there were one or two attempts but nothing concrete could happen, with the help of your blessing we started the process in 2014”, he said.

“We are continuously working towards making the Army self-reliant, the decisions which were thought to be impossible earlier have now been made possible”.

The Prime Minister further stated “Contribution from all parts of society is necessary for security of the nation. Because of this ideology, for the first time women are getting the opportunity to become fighter pilots.

<img alt="National war" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="699d1ef1-1a21-406d-9f30-70bcc0c4f271" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202019-02-24%20at%204.20.31%20PM%20%282%29_0.jpeg" />

&nbsp;

<img alt="NWM" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ef11a37-3024-4999-9f3d-3ce22b235b85" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/84930-war-memorial.jpg" />

(The National War Memorial is a state-of-art monument spread over an area of approximately 40 acres and is a tribute to Indian soldiers.)

“Decisions are being taken to strengthen the participation of daughters in the forces," he said.

The memorial has been built in the memory of martyred soldiers who lost their lives protecting the nation during Indo-China War in 1962, Indo-Pak Wars in 1947, 1965 and 1971, Indian Peace Keeping Force Operations in Srilanka and the Kargil Conflict in 1999.

The entire project has been executed at a cost of Rs 176 crore and its design was selected through global competition. The Memorial has been built in the area of over 40 acres near the India Gate complex. Though the plan to construct such a memorial was going on since 1975, it was only on October 7, 2015, that the government approved its construction.

The names of 25,942 battle casualties have been inscribed across 16 walls that consist of granite pieces bearing the name, rank and regiment of the fallen heroes. It was built between February 2018 and February 2019, which is a "record time" to complete such a massive project.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the National War Memorial in New Delhi's India gate circle and dedicated it to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday inaugurated the National War Memorial in New Delhi's India gate circle and dedicated it to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. While addressing the event, Modi paid tribute to the brave soldiers who lost their lives in Pulwama attack and all those bravehearts who sacrifice themselves for protection of India. “The demand for a National War Memorial has been there for many decades, in the last decade there were one or two attempts but nothing concrete could happen, with the help of your blessing we started the process in 2014”, he said. “We are continuously working towards making the Army self-reliant, the decisions which were thought to be impossible earlier have now been made possible”. The Prime Minister further stated “Contribution from all parts of society is necessary for security of the nation. Because of this ideology, for the first time women are getting the opportunity to become fighter pilots. (The National War Memorial is a state-of-art monument spread over an area of approximately 40 acres and is a tribute to Indian soldiers.) “Decisions are being taken to strengthen the participation of daughters in the forces," he said. The memorial has been built in the memory of martyred soldiers who lost their lives protecting the nation during Indo-China War in 1962, Indo-Pak Wars in 1947, 1965 and 1971, Indian Peace Keeping Force Operations in Srilanka and the Kargil Conflict in 1999. The entire project has been executed at a cost of Rs 176 crore and its design was selected through global competition. The Memorial has been built in the area of over 40 acres near the India Gate complex. Though the plan to construct such a memorial was going on since 1975, it was only on October 7, 2015, that the government approved its construction. The names of 25,942 battle casualties have been inscribed across 16 walls that consist of granite pieces bearing the name, rank and regiment of the fallen heroes. It was built between February 2018 and February 2019, which is a "record time" to complete such a massive project.

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates National War Memorial, dedicates to India's martyrs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his ambitious PM Kisan Yojna on Sunday from Gorakhpur — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also in attendance — which aims to give <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/the-small-and-marginal-farmers-are-caught-in-a-double-bind-17791">the country's small and marginal farmers</a> income support of Rs 6,000 a year.&nbsp;

Modi said in Gorakhpur that the first installment of the money — there will be three a year of Rs 2,000 each — had been paid into the accounts of 1.01 crore farmers. "Today is a historic day," Modi said.&nbsp;

He added that farmers who had not got the first payment would get it in the coming days.&nbsp;

He added added that "for us also loan waivers would have been easy and convenient" but "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/loan-waiver-not-a-solution-to-farm-distress-niti-aayog-185407">we cannot commit such a crime</a>". The loan waivers have been given by the opposition Congress under Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

"This is your money and no one will be able to take it from you," Modi told the country's farmers.&nbsp;He said the scheme had been made foolproof so that no one can snatch away their rights and he added that middlemen will play no role in the scheme.&nbsp;

Modi warned "state governments who are looking to play politics with PM Kisan Yojna" that "if you indulge in this, then curse of farmers will destroy your politics".&nbsp;

To the farmers, he appealed that they not be "misled by anyone".&nbsp;

And that "Mahamilavti logon ke moonh utre huye thhe Parliament mein jab scheme batayi gyi".&nbsp;

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PM:Warn those state govts who are looking to play politics with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMKisan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMKisan</a> Yojna, if you indulge in this then curse of farmers will destroy your politics.I appeal to farmers, don't be misled by anyone. 'Mahamilavti' logon ke moonh utre huye the Parliament mein jab scheme batayi gyi <a href="https://t.co/zIyHCjj3Qb">pic.twitter.com/zIyHCjj3Qb</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1099571635450007552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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UP CM Yogi Adityanath at launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in Gorakhpur: We would like to wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi as after gaining respect of the world as 'champion of earth', he was honoured with Seoul peace prize last week. <a href="https://t.co/xSxleAw4by">pic.twitter.com/xSxleAw4by</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1099564015435595776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The PM Kisan Yojna was announced in this year's interim budget and envisions the payment of the Rs 6,000 a year to 12 crore farmers who own less than 5 acres of land. The scheme&nbsp;is expected to cost the exchequer Rs 75,000 crore a year.&nbsp;

The aid was a response to the massive levels of farmer distress reported from the country's rural areas.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his ambitious PM Kisan Yojna on Sunday from Gorakhpur — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also in attendance — which aims to give the country's small and marginal farmers income support of Rs 6,000 a year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched his ambitious PM Kisan Yojna on Sunday from Gorakhpur — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was also in attendance — which aims to give the country's small and marginal farmers income support of Rs 6,000 a year. Modi said in Gorakhpur that the first installment of the money — there will be three a year of Rs 2,000 each — had been paid into the accounts of 1.01 crore farmers. "Today is a historic day," Modi said. He added that farmers who had not got the first payment would get it in the coming days. He added added that "for us also loan waivers would have been easy and convenient" but "we cannot commit such a crime". The loan waivers have been given by the opposition Congress under Rahul Gandhi. "This is your money and no one will be able to take it from you," Modi told the country's farmers. He said the scheme had been made foolproof so that no one can snatch away their rights and he added that middlemen will play no role in the scheme. Modi warned "state governments who are looking to play politics with PM Kisan Yojna" that "if you indulge in this, then curse of farmers will destroy your politics". To the farmers, he appealed that they not be "misled by anyone". And that "Mahamilavti logon ke moonh utre huye thhe Parliament mein jab scheme batayi gyi". PM:Warn those state govts who are looking to play politics with #PMKisan Yojna, if you indulge in this then curse of farmers will destroy your politics.I appeal to farmers, don't be misled by anyone. 'Mahamilavti' logon ke moonh utre huye the Parliament mein jab scheme batayi gyi pic.twitter.com/zIyHCjj3Qb — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 24, 2019 × UP CM Yogi Adityanath at launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in Gorakhpur: We would like to wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi as after gaining respect of the world as 'champion of earth', he was honoured with Seoul peace prize last week. pic.twitter.com/xSxleAw4by — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) February 24, 2019 × The PM Kisan Yojna was announced in this year's interim budget and envisions the payment of the Rs 6,000 a year to 12 crore farmers who own less than 5 acres of land. The scheme is expected to cost the exchequer Rs 75,000 crore a year. The aid was a response to the massive levels of farmer distress reported from the country's rural areas.

Modi launches PM Kisan Yojna, says first installment of Rs 2,000 paid to 1.01 crore farmers

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state. &nbsp;

The recent terrorist act in Pulwama, causing the death of 40 CRPF jawans travelling in a bus and not engaged in battle, makes it the turning point. It is “now or never” for ending terrorism in these parts of J&amp;K.&nbsp;

Violence to overawe a civilian population to attain political goals is terrorism. This type of violence is also a tool for dismembering a nation. The concern today is how, we as Indians, deter this terror and safeguard national integrity?&nbsp;

In Tamil Nadu, I was in charge in the Chandrashekar government [1990-91] and the process began by dismissing the Karunanidhi government. Tamils fully cooperated and we were able to decimate the LTTE without any civilian death. In the ensuing Assembly elections, the DMK won only two seats in the 224-seat House. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The dismemberment of Kashmir and the religious cleansing of Hindus from the state are the goals of J&amp;K Islamic terrorism.

In a cassette distributed in a mosque in Srinagar on June 8, 2007, Al Qaeda [now morphed into ISIS] confirmed that for Islam, India as presently constituted, is the target for terrorist acts and religious cleansing. The forced exodus of five lakh Hindu Kashmiris, principally the Pandit community, was beginning of religious cleansing in the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

In J&amp;K, terrorism today is a premeditated, politically motivated and Jehadi Islamic religion-inspired violence perpetrated against the non-combatant target population, primarily those of Hindu faith, by clandestine agents to secure compliance by intimidation, to overawe the Hindu civilian population. &nbsp;

Terrorism in the state,&nbsp;thus, is a strategy of violence to generate fear and disruption, with the ultimate aim to secure the balkanisation of the Indian nation, the rubbishing of its ancient Hindu civilisation, secured through capitulation of law-abiding civilian citizens.&nbsp;

J&amp;K is thus today a terrorist-challenged state, which has profound national security implications.&nbsp;

Combating such terrorism has, however, become extremely complicated and multi-dimensional. Hence, we need to understand it’s nature and scope clearly before an effective strategy to deter terrorism can be formulated. There has been a paradigm change in terrorism’s character since 1968, caused by three specific innovations of the 20th century.&nbsp;

First, the invention of television with instant satellite relay, which has suddenly given small unknown groups the possibility of worldwide publicity. &nbsp;

Internet has raised that publicity potential manifold. The fact that most terrorist incidents take place in democratic states, may in part, be due to its availability.&nbsp;

Under an authoritarian regime like China, terrorists can be cut off from their media audience in the target country, thereby reducing to a minimum all the expected impact of their actions.

With freely available media, small groups of terrorists can attain heavy leverage against powerful opponents by getting wide publicity on small political events. The impact is mostly psychological and meant for media coverage. But it has the desired effect of promoting fear, shock and awe in the civilian population.

Hence, democratic India now need&nbsp;to formulate their counter-terrorist strategy keeping this in view, by imposing reasonable restrictions permitted in the Constitution on democratic freedom without destroying the basic structure of democratic practice itself.

Second is the incredible sophistication of hand-held weapons, especially it’s miniaturisation and proliferation that have enabled a small number of criminally-minded persons to do great harm.&nbsp;

Third, easy communication through internet and cell/satellite phones-enabled networking between various disparate terrorist groups. The ISI of Pakistan is engaged in assisting this enterprise to unravel India, and push it toward balkanisation. Hence, a terror cartel and networking has emerged in India.&nbsp;

A counter-terror strategy for India thus requires a paradigm shift from the traditional law &amp; order approach of providing more personnel and sophisticated weapons.&nbsp;

What then are the elements of this counter-terror strategy? &nbsp;In my view, there are three steps for an effective strategy to eliminate terror in J&amp;K.

First, all remaining traces of so-called “disputed status” of Jammu and Kashmir must be erased. For that, India must write to the United Nations withdrawing the illegal application filed by then Prime Minister Nehru.&nbsp;

It is illegal because it violated the 1935 British Indian Constitution on the Instrument of Accession Clause, which the J&amp;K Maharaja had signed merging the state into India. &nbsp;Also Nehru never took Cabinet approval for the application. Hence, it is illegal and not binding on successive Indian governments since the Cabinet had not cleared it.

Second, Article 370 of the Constitution labelled as “temporary” by the Constituent Assembly, should be deleted as per procedure laid out in the Constitution itself, which is that a notification prepared by the Cabinet for its abolition is issued by the President of India. With that, Article 35 A will also fade away.&nbsp;

Third, 10 lakh former servicemen should be liberally provided with funds and weapons and requested to go to the Valley and settle down there with their families. After five years, they can return and the houses they acquire can be occupied by the expelled Hindu Kashmiris.&nbsp;

Fourth, liberally help the Kashmiri Muslim youth with clean credentials, and even surrendered extremists, to get education and jobs anywhere in India.&nbsp;

I know many who are today more patriotic and able than the average citizen.

Finally, for five years, impose AFSPA all over the state, introduce POTA and have no election for the first two years. The success of these proposals will be obtained only in the next two years. Pakistan, which is ripe for dismemberment, needs to be broken into four — Baluchistan, Pakhtoonistan, Sindh, and residual West Punjab.&nbsp;

For this, India has to obtain the tacit support of China and US by their non-interference. For doubting Thomases remember, China did not interfere in 1965, 1971 and 1999 Indo-Pak wars.

(This article was originally published on the DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-india-s-moment-to-act-is-here-2722269">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state.

Terrorist activities of Jehadi Islamic organisations in a part of Jammu and Kashmir has reached a new and crucial stage that calls for decisive and conclusive response from the Indian state. The recent terrorist act in Pulwama, causing the death of 40 CRPF jawans travelling in a bus and not engaged in battle, makes it the turning point. It is “now or never” for ending terrorism in these parts of J&K. Violence to overawe a civilian population to attain political goals is terrorism. This type of violence is also a tool for dismembering a nation. The concern today is how, we as Indians, deter this terror and safeguard national integrity? In Tamil Nadu, I was in charge in the Chandrashekar government [1990-91] and the process began by dismissing the Karunanidhi government. Tamils fully cooperated and we were able to decimate the LTTE without any civilian death. In the ensuing Assembly elections, the DMK won only two seats in the 224-seat House. The dismemberment of Kashmir and the religious cleansing of Hindus from the state are the goals of J&K Islamic terrorism. In a cassette distributed in a mosque in Srinagar on June 8, 2007, Al Qaeda [now morphed into ISIS] confirmed that for Islam, India as presently constituted, is the target for terrorist acts and religious cleansing. The forced exodus of five lakh Hindu Kashmiris, principally the Pandit community, was beginning of religious cleansing in the Kashmir Valley. In J&K, terrorism today is a premeditated, politically motivated and Jehadi Islamic religion-inspired violence perpetrated against the non-combatant target population, primarily those of Hindu faith, by clandestine agents to secure compliance by intimidation, to overawe the Hindu civilian population. Terrorism in the state, thus, is a strategy of violence to generate fear and disruption, with the ultimate aim to secure the balkanisation of the Indian nation, the rubbishing of its ancient Hindu civilisation, secured through capitulation of law-abiding civilian citizens. J&K is thus today a terrorist-challenged state, which has profound national security implications. Combating such terrorism has, however, become extremely complicated and multi-dimensional. Hence, we need to understand it’s nature and scope clearly before an effective strategy to deter terrorism can be formulated. There has been a paradigm change in terrorism’s character since 1968, caused by three specific innovations of the 20th century. First, the invention of television with instant satellite relay, which has suddenly given small unknown groups the possibility of worldwide publicity. Internet has raised that publicity potential manifold. The fact that most terrorist incidents take place in democratic states, may in part, be due to its availability. Under an authoritarian regime like China, terrorists can be cut off from their media audience in the target country, thereby reducing to a minimum all the expected impact of their actions. With freely available media, small groups of terrorists can attain heavy leverage against powerful opponents by getting wide publicity on small political events. The impact is mostly psychological and meant for media coverage. But it has the desired effect of promoting fear, shock and awe in the civilian population. Hence, democratic India now need to formulate their counter-terrorist strategy keeping this in view, by imposing reasonable restrictions permitted in the Constitution on democratic freedom without destroying the basic structure of democratic practice itself. Second is the incredible sophistication of hand-held weapons, especially it’s miniaturisation and proliferation that have enabled a small number of criminally-minded persons to do great harm. Third, easy communication through internet and cell/satellite phones-enabled networking between various disparate terrorist groups. The ISI of Pakistan is engaged in assisting this enterprise to unravel India, and push it toward balkanisation. Hence, a terror cartel and networking has emerged in India. A counter-terror strategy for India thus requires a paradigm shift from the traditional law & order approach of providing more personnel and sophisticated weapons. What then are the elements of this counter-terror strategy? In my view, there are three steps for an effective strategy to eliminate terror in J&K. First, all remaining traces of so-called “disputed status” of Jammu and Kashmir must be erased. For that, India must write to the United Nations withdrawing the illegal application filed by then Prime Minister Nehru. It is illegal because it violated the 1935 British Indian Constitution on the Instrument of Accession Clause, which the J&K Maharaja had signed merging the state into India. Also Nehru never took Cabinet approval for the application. Hence, it is illegal and not binding on successive Indian governments since the Cabinet had not cleared it. Second, Article 370 of the Constitution labelled as “temporary” by the Constituent Assembly, should be deleted as per procedure laid out in the Constitution itself, which is that a notification prepared by the Cabinet for its abolition is issued by the President of India. With that, Article 35 A will also fade away. Third, 10 lakh former servicemen should be liberally provided with funds and weapons and requested to go to the Valley and settle down there with their families. After five years, they can return and the houses they acquire can be occupied by the expelled Hindu Kashmiris. Fourth, liberally help the Kashmiri Muslim youth with clean credentials, and even surrendered extremists, to get education and jobs anywhere in India. I know many who are today more patriotic and able than the average citizen. Finally, for five years, impose AFSPA all over the state, introduce POTA and have no election for the first two years. The success of these proposals will be obtained only in the next two years. Pakistan, which is ripe for dismemberment, needs to be broken into four — Baluchistan, Pakhtoonistan, Sindh, and residual West Punjab. For this, India has to obtain the tacit support of China and US by their non-interference. For doubting Thomases remember, China did not interfere in 1965, 1971 and 1999 Indo-Pak wars. (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.)

Pulwama attack: India's moment to act is here

Dispatch: PM Modi addresses gathering in South Korea

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-chairs-nsc-meeting-again-asks-for-actionable-proof-on-pulwama-attack-sources-to-wion-198779">Pak PM Imran Khan chairs NSC meeting, again asks for 'actionable proof' on Pulwama attack: Sources to WION</a>

Amid growing tensions with India over the Pulwama attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a key meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss the security situation.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-reason-to-ratchet-up-confrontation-to-level-of-cuban-missile-crisis-we-can-put-submarines-in-neutral-waters-warns-putin-198765">No reason to ratchet up </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-reason-to-ratchet-up-confrontation-to-level-of-cuban-missile-crisis-we-can-put-submarines-in-neutral-waters-warns-putin-198765">confrontation</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-reason-to-ratchet-up-confrontation-to-level-of-cuban-missile-crisis-we-can-put-submarines-in-neutral-waters-warns-putin-198765"> to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-reason-to-ratchet-up-confrontation-to-level-of-cuban-missile-crisis-we-can-put-submarines-in-neutral-waters-warns-putin-198765">level</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-reason-to-ratchet-up-confrontation-to-level-of-cuban-missile-crisis-we-can-put-submarines-in-neutral-waters-warns-putin-198765"> of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-reason-to-ratchet-up-confrontation-to-level-of-cuban-missile-crisis-we-can-put-submarines-in-neutral-waters-warns-putin-198765">Cuban</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-reason-to-ratchet-up-confrontation-to-level-of-cuban-missile-crisis-we-can-put-submarines-in-neutral-waters-warns-putin-198765"> missile crisis, we can put submarines in neutral waters, warns Putin</a>

President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia is militarily ready for a Cuban Missile-style crisis if the United States is foolish enough to want one and that his country currently has the edge when it comes to a first nuclear strike.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/81-killed-as-massive-fire-spreads-at-lightning-speed-through-chemical-warehouses-in-bangladesh-198773">Bangladesh: 81 killed as </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/81-killed-as-massive-fire-spreads-at-lightning-speed-through-chemical-warehouses-in-bangladesh-198773">massive</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/81-killed-as-massive-fire-spreads-at-lightning-speed-through-chemical-warehouses-in-bangladesh-198773"> fire spreads through chemical warehouses in Dhaka</a>

A fast-moving fire swept through adjoining apartment buildings and chemical warehouses in a historic part of the Bangladesh capital Dhaka, killing at least 81 people and injuring several others, the latest such deadly blaze in the country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-lose-by-not-playing-pak-in-world-cup-says-gavaskar-urges-imran-khan-to-act-198739">India lose by not playing Pak in World Cup, says Gavaskar; urges Imran Khan to act</a>

India stand to lose by boycotting Pakistan in the upcoming World Cup, feels former captain Sunil Gavaskar, who said the country can continue to "hurt them" by shunning bilateral ties.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/president-xi-jinping-says-ties-with-iran-unchanged-as-saudi-crown-prince-arrives-in-china-198743">President Xi Jinping says ties with Iran unchanged as Saudi crown prince arrives in China</a>

China remains determined to maintain strategic ties with Iran regardless of regional tensions in the Middle East, its president has said, ahead of Saudi Arabia crown prince's two-day China trip that began Thursday.

&nbsp;

Pak PM Imran Khan chairs NSC meeting, again asks for 'actionable proof' on Pulwama attack: Sources to WION Amid growing tensions with India over the Pulwama attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a key meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss the security situation.

Pak PM Imran Khan chairs NSC meeting, again asks for 'actionable proof' on Pulwama attack: Sources to WION Amid growing tensions with India over the Pulwama attack, Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a key meeting of the National Security Council (NSC) to discuss the security situation. No reason to ratchet up confrontation to level of Cuban missile crisis, we can put submarines in neutral waters, warns Putin President Vladimir Putin has said that Russia is militarily ready for a Cuban Missile-style crisis if the United States is foolish enough to want one and that his country currently has the edge when it comes to a first nuclear strike. Bangladesh: 81 killed as massive fire spreads through chemical warehouses in Dhaka A fast-moving fire swept through adjoining apartment buildings and chemical warehouses in a historic part of the Bangladesh capital Dhaka, killing at least 81 people and injuring several others, the latest such deadly blaze in the country. India lose by not playing Pak in World Cup, says Gavaskar; urges Imran Khan to act India stand to lose by boycotting Pakistan in the upcoming World Cup, feels former captain Sunil Gavaskar, who said the country can continue to "hurt them" by shunning bilateral ties. President Xi Jinping says ties with Iran unchanged as Saudi crown prince arrives in China China remains determined to maintain strategic ties with Iran regardless of regional tensions in the Middle East, its president has said, ahead of Saudi Arabia crown prince's two-day China trip that began Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the Indian diaspora in Seoul, South Korea. During the address, PM Modi hailed South Korea-India relations and said that both are "natural partners."

He also said that "India aims to be among world's top three economies in the next one-and-half decade."

"South Korea-India will continue to promote peace," PM Modi also said.

PM Modi who&nbsp;will be <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/seoul-peace-prize-to-pm-is-recognition-of-modinomics-amit-shah-173205">honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize </a>on Friday, said that the prize is not his and he will "only be receiving it on behalf of 130 crore Indians."

"Tomorrow, I will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize. This prize is not mine, I will only be receiving it on behalf of 130 crore Indians and the 3 crore Indians living abroad. This prize is a recognition of the hard work of all Indians, " PM Modi said during the address.&nbsp;

PM Modi is on a two-day visit to South Korea from Thursday during which he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Friday. The two leaders are expected to discuss the issue of denuclearisation of North Korea, ahead of the Trump-Kim summit.&nbsp;

Modi will be also honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize on Friday. The Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation had announced in October of 2018 the decision to award Prime Minister Modi with the Seoul Peace Prize for 2018 in recognition of his dedication to international cooperation, global growth and human development.

Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel and United Nation chiefs like Ban Ki-moon and Kofi Annan.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gandhis-ideals-have-power-to-overcome-terrorism-and-climate-change-pm-in-south-korea-198746">PM Modi unveiled the bust of Gandhi </a>at the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University in the presence of South Korean President Moon Jae-in. Established in 1885, its one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country.

After the unveiling ceremony, PM Modi said values of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi can show the way in dealing with issues like climate change and terror.&nbsp;

"The thoughts and ideals of Bapu have the power to help us overcome the menace of terrorism and climate change, two challenges humanity faces in these times".

South Korea President also voiced hope that the great spirit of Mahatma Gandhi can usher in peace and prosperity in Asia and beyond.

Moon on Wednesday thanked India for supporting South Korea's efforts to denuclearise North Korea and establish peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Launching "India-Korea Startup Hub" PM Modi said it will provide a hub for South Koreans and Indians to "freely communicate"

Prime minister had visited South Korea in May of 2015. Moon Jae-in, during a visit to India in July 2018, inaugurated the new manufacturing facility of South Korean major Samsung in Noida which is the largest mobile phone manufacturing plant of the company anywhere in the world.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the Indian diaspora in Seoul, South Korea. During the address, PM Modi hailed South Korea-India relations and said that both are "natural partners.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday addressed the Indian diaspora in Seoul, South Korea. During the address, PM Modi hailed South Korea-India relations and said that both are "natural partners." He also said that "India aims to be among world's top three economies in the next one-and-half decade." "South Korea-India will continue to promote peace," PM Modi also said. PM Modi who will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize on Friday, said that the prize is not his and he will "only be receiving it on behalf of 130 crore Indians." "Tomorrow, I will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize. This prize is not mine, I will only be receiving it on behalf of 130 crore Indians and the 3 crore Indians living abroad. This prize is a recognition of the hard work of all Indians, " PM Modi said during the address. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to South Korea from Thursday during which he is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on Friday. The two leaders are expected to discuss the issue of denuclearisation of North Korea, ahead of the Trump-Kim summit. Modi will be also honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize on Friday. The Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation had announced in October of 2018 the decision to award Prime Minister Modi with the Seoul Peace Prize for 2018 in recognition of his dedication to international cooperation, global growth and human development. Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel and United Nation chiefs like Ban Ki-moon and Kofi Annan. Earlier in the day, PM Modi unveiled the bust of Gandhi at the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University in the presence of South Korean President Moon Jae-in. Established in 1885, its one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country. After the unveiling ceremony, PM Modi said values of Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi can show the way in dealing with issues like climate change and terror. "The thoughts and ideals of Bapu have the power to help us overcome the menace of terrorism and climate change, two challenges humanity faces in these times". South Korea President also voiced hope that the great spirit of Mahatma Gandhi can usher in peace and prosperity in Asia and beyond. Moon on Wednesday thanked India for supporting South Korea's efforts to denuclearise North Korea and establish peace on the Korean Peninsula. Launching "India-Korea Startup Hub" PM Modi said it will provide a hub for South Koreans and Indians to "freely communicate" Prime minister had visited South Korea in May of 2015. Moon Jae-in, during a visit to India in July 2018, inaugurated the new manufacturing facility of South Korean major Samsung in Noida which is the largest mobile phone manufacturing plant of the company anywhere in the world. (With inputs from agencies)

India aims to be among world's top 3 economies in next 15 years: Modi address Indian diaspora in Seoul

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, who is in India on a two-day visit, has said India-Saudi ties are "in our DNA" and lauded the role played by Indians in building the West Asian country.&nbsp;

Speaking after the ceremonial reception at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhawan, Salman said, "The relationship between India and the Arabian peninsula, which Saudi Arabia represents, about 80%, goes back thousands of years. Even before history is written. The relationship between India and the Arabian peninsula is in our DNA."

Standing alongside President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he added, "Today we want to be sure this relation is maintained and improved for the sake of both countries. With the leadership of president and PM, I am are sure we can create good things for India and Saudi Arabia."

Highlighting the role of the Indian diaspora in building the country, the crown prince said, ''Since we remember ourselves, Indian people are friends and part of building Saudi Arabia in past 70 years. Lot of Saudis work and develop a lot of things in India for hundreds of years."

Salman will be meeting PM Modi at Hyderabad House for bilateral talks. This will be the second meeting between them in the last 3 months.&nbsp;

They met last on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on November 30. Both sides are expected to sign Five MoUs/ Agreements in areas of investment, tourism, housing and information and broadcasting.

Mohammed bin Salman, known famously by his initials MBS arrived in India on Tuesday evening with Modi breaking the protocol to receive him.

Indian prime minister has in the past broken protocol for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2018), Jordan's King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein(2018), United Arab Emirates’ Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (2017) and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina (2015).

The focus will be on terror in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack last week in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. New Delhi will be keen that Riyadh mounts pressure on its traditional ally Pakistan. With Pakistan backed terror group Jaish e Mohammad claiming responsibility for the attack, India will be hoping that Saudi Arabia comes hard on Pakistan especially by way of tightening the purse strings.&nbsp;

MBS comes to India, a day after his 2-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

During Crown Prince's Pakistan visit, he announced&nbsp;$20 billion dollar investment. Reacting to the development, sources in Delhi said, "When they invest in India, they invest in a robust economy, in Pakistan they bailout."

India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Both countries are finalizing the setting up of ‘Strategic Partnership Council’ at the Ministerial level. &nbsp;Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at $27.48 billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's 4th largest trading partner with New Delhi get 17% of its oil imports from the country. Oil prices are something that India has been consistently raising with Saudi Arabia, an OPEC country. Saudi ARAMCO along with ADNOC of UAE in 2018 agreed to partner in Ratnagiri Refinery.

Saudi Arabia will soon be joining the International Solar Alliance initiative. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over $11 billion annually. Last year, Saudi Arabia increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year. India is also in touch with the west Asian country when it comes to Afghan Peace process.

Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country.&nbsp;

Crown Prince Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor. Saudi Arabia is one of the world's largest oil producers.

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, who is in India on a two-day visit, has said India-Saudi ties are "in our DNA" and lauded the role played by Indians in building the West Asian country.

Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, who is in India on a two-day visit, has said India-Saudi ties are "in our DNA" and lauded the role played by Indians in building the West Asian country. Speaking after the ceremonial reception at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhawan, Salman said, "The relationship between India and the Arabian peninsula, which Saudi Arabia represents, about 80%, goes back thousands of years. Even before history is written. The relationship between India and the Arabian peninsula is in our DNA." Standing alongside President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he added, "Today we want to be sure this relation is maintained and improved for the sake of both countries. With the leadership of president and PM, I am are sure we can create good things for India and Saudi Arabia." Highlighting the role of the Indian diaspora in building the country, the crown prince said, ''Since we remember ourselves, Indian people are friends and part of building Saudi Arabia in past 70 years. Lot of Saudis work and develop a lot of things in India for hundreds of years." Salman will be meeting PM Modi at Hyderabad House for bilateral talks. This will be the second meeting between them in the last 3 months. They met last on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on November 30. Both sides are expected to sign Five MoUs/ Agreements in areas of investment, tourism, housing and information and broadcasting. Mohammed bin Salman, known famously by his initials MBS arrived in India on Tuesday evening with Modi breaking the protocol to receive him. Indian prime minister has in the past broken protocol for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2018), Jordan's King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein(2018), United Arab Emirates’ Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (2017) and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina (2015). The focus will be on terror in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack last week in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. New Delhi will be keen that Riyadh mounts pressure on its traditional ally Pakistan. With Pakistan backed terror group Jaish e Mohammad claiming responsibility for the attack, India will be hoping that Saudi Arabia comes hard on Pakistan especially by way of tightening the purse strings. MBS comes to India, a day after his 2-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack. During Crown Prince's Pakistan visit, he announced $20 billion dollar investment. Reacting to the development, sources in Delhi said, "When they invest in India, they invest in a robust economy, in Pakistan they bailout." India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Both countries are finalizing the setting up of ‘Strategic Partnership Council’ at the Ministerial level. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at $27.48 billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's 4th largest trading partner with New Delhi get 17% of its oil imports from the country. Oil prices are something that India has been consistently raising with Saudi Arabia, an OPEC country. Saudi ARAMCO along with ADNOC of UAE in 2018 agreed to partner in Ratnagiri Refinery. Saudi Arabia will soon be joining the International Solar Alliance initiative. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over $11 billion annually. Last year, Saudi Arabia increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year. India is also in touch with the west Asian country when it comes to Afghan Peace process. Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country. Crown Prince Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor. Saudi Arabia is one of the world's largest oil producers.

In India, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman says India-Saudi ties 'in our DNA'

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's "development book" has improved much since 2014 and he and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's support, but they cannot be compared with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Shiv Sena said on Wednesday.

The remarks by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agreed-for-alliance-as-bjps-way-of-treating-allies-has-changed-uddhav-thackeray-198407">Uddhav Thackeray</a>-led party came two days after it sealed a pre-poll alliance with the BJP after years of bickering and criticism of its policies and leaders.

Responding to opposition criticism of the seat-sharing pact, the Sena, in an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana', said questions on tie-up are less in the minds of people but much more among political opponents as these "insects" will be crushed due to the alliance.

Referring to Modi's stewardship, it said, "Rahul Gandhi's book of development has improved much since 2014 and he has Priyanka's help.&nbsp;However, they can't be compared with Modi's leadership."

Asserting that the party is not helpless for power, the editorial said there are several questions - like why did it ally with the BJP despite differences in 2014, will the Ram Temple be constructed, will there be Sena's chief minister - and their answers are "positive".

Instead of replying to questions on the alliance, it is better that the "arrangement" made for the benefit of Maharashtra is taken ahead, it said.

The Marathi daily said BJP president Amit Shah himself came to Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray's suburban residence 'Matoshree'. Thackeray told him what he had to and it was finally decided to give the alliance another chance.

Maintaining that there was no enmity between the Sena and the BJP, it said if (Bihar chief minister and JD-U head) Nitish Kumar could join the NDA despite differences of opinion with Modi and if the Congress could forge a "mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance), then the Sena has always been a part of the BJP-led coalition.

The Sena said there was resentment in 2014 against the Congress and its allies and there was a "wave" in favour of Modi.

However, in 2019, the wave has receded and elections have to be fought not on the back of the "wave", but on ideology, development works and future, it added.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's "development book" has improved much since 2014 and he and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's support, but they cannot be compared with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Shiv Sena said on Wednesday.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's "development book" has improved much since 2014 and he and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's support, but they cannot be compared with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Shiv Sena said on Wednesday. The remarks by the Uddhav Thackeray-led party came two days after it sealed a pre-poll alliance with the BJP after years of bickering and criticism of its policies and leaders. Responding to opposition criticism of the seat-sharing pact, the Sena, in an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana', said questions on tie-up are less in the minds of people but much more among political opponents as these "insects" will be crushed due to the alliance. Referring to Modi's stewardship, it said, "Rahul Gandhi's book of development has improved much since 2014 and he has Priyanka's help. However, they can't be compared with Modi's leadership." Asserting that the party is not helpless for power, the editorial said there are several questions - like why did it ally with the BJP despite differences in 2014, will the Ram Temple be constructed, will there be Sena's chief minister - and their answers are "positive". Instead of replying to questions on the alliance, it is better that the "arrangement" made for the benefit of Maharashtra is taken ahead, it said. The Marathi daily said BJP president Amit Shah himself came to Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray's suburban residence 'Matoshree'. Thackeray told him what he had to and it was finally decided to give the alliance another chance. Maintaining that there was no enmity between the Sena and the BJP, it said if (Bihar chief minister and JD-U head) Nitish Kumar could join the NDA despite differences of opinion with Modi and if the Congress could forge a "mahagathbandhan" (grand alliance), then the Sena has always been a part of the BJP-led coalition. The Sena said there was resentment in 2014 against the Congress and its allies and there was a "wave" in favour of Modi. However, in 2019, the wave has receded and elections have to be fought not on the back of the "wave", but on ideology, development works and future, it added.

Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi no match for Modi's leadership: Shiv Sena

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be South Korea from 21st to 22nd. Before the visit, PM in a statement said, "the growing depth and variety in our relationship has been accentuated by the harmony between our Act East Policy and ROK’s New Southern Policy."

Adding, "My visit to the Republic of Korea is reflective of the importance we both attach to our relationship"

During the visit, other than bilateral meet with President Moon Jae In at the blue house, the official residence of the South Korean president, PM will address India-Korea Business Symposium, launch India-Korea Startup Hub, unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University, pay respects at the National Cemetery in Seoul and interact with the Indian community in the country.

Briefing the media ahead of the visit, secretary east in the Ministry of External Affairs Vijay Thakur Singh said, "We expect a substantive agenda for discussion which would cover areas of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues of mutual interest."&nbsp;

PM to be honoured with Seoul Peace Prize &nbsp;

He will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize during the visit. Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation last year announced the decision to award Prime Minister Modi with the Seoul Peace Prize for 2018 in recognition of his dedication to international cooperation, global growth and human development. Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel &amp; United Nation chiefs like Ban Ki-moon, Kofi Annan. 4 recipients of Seoul Peace Prize later got Noble Peace Prize.

The Cultural Connect&nbsp;

PM Modi will be gifting a sapling of &nbsp;Holy Bodhi Tree to the people of Kimhae. Kimhae city has a historic connect with India since Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya had gone there in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro and started a dynasty. Princess Suriratna is known as Heo Hwang-ok in South Korea. The First Lady of South Korea, Kim Jung-Sook visited Ayodhya in November of 2018 to participate in the ground-breaking ceremony of Queen Suriratna Memorial in the city.&nbsp;

North Korean in the focus&nbsp;

The visit comes even as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is all set to met US President Donald Trump for the 2nd US-North Korea summit in Vietnam on 27th and 28th February. They met last year in Singapore for the 1st summit.&nbsp;

Asked about if North Korea be discussed, Secretary East said, "We have a very multifaceted relationship with Korea. We discuss issues of mutual interest, regional and global issues. The conversation which is going on with the DPRK (North Korea) is an important conversation. India welcomes discussions and dialogues which will help in reducing tensions and paving the way for peace and reconciliation in the Korean Peninsula."&nbsp;

Without naming Pakistan secretary said, we "hope that the resolution of the Korean Peninsula will take into account and address our concerns about proliferation linkages in India’s neighbourhood."&nbsp;

It is widely believed that Pakistani physicist AQ Khan had given sensitive information on uranium enrichment to North Korea in exchange of missile technology with approval from former Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto.&nbsp;

PM Modi had visited South Korea in May of 2015. South Korean president Moon Jae In visit India in July 2018. During his visit, he along with PM Modi inaugurated the new manufacturing facility of South Korean major Samsung in Noida which is the largest mobile phone manufacturing plant of the company anywhere in the world. After President Moon's election victory in 2017, PM Modi was the 4th international leader to congratulate him.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be South Korea from 21st to 22nd. Before the visit, PM in a statement said, "the growing depth and variety in our relationship has been accentuated by the harmony between our Act East Policy and ROK’s New Southern Policy.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be South Korea from 21st to 22nd. Before the visit, PM in a statement said, "the growing depth and variety in our relationship has been accentuated by the harmony between our Act East Policy and ROK’s New Southern Policy." Adding, "My visit to the Republic of Korea is reflective of the importance we both attach to our relationship" During the visit, other than bilateral meet with President Moon Jae In at the blue house, the official residence of the South Korean president, PM will address India-Korea Business Symposium, launch India-Korea Startup Hub, unveil a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Seoul Campus of the Yonsei University, pay respects at the National Cemetery in Seoul and interact with the Indian community in the country. Briefing the media ahead of the visit, secretary east in the Ministry of External Affairs Vijay Thakur Singh said, "We expect a substantive agenda for discussion which would cover areas of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues of mutual interest." PM to be honoured with Seoul Peace Prize He will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize during the visit. Seoul Peace Prize Cultural Foundation last year announced the decision to award Prime Minister Modi with the Seoul Peace Prize for 2018 in recognition of his dedication to international cooperation, global growth and human development. Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel & United Nation chiefs like Ban Ki-moon, Kofi Annan. 4 recipients of Seoul Peace Prize later got Noble Peace Prize. The Cultural Connect PM Modi will be gifting a sapling of Holy Bodhi Tree to the people of Kimhae. Kimhae city has a historic connect with India since Princess Suriratna of Ayodhya had gone there in 48 CE and married Korean King Suro and started a dynasty. Princess Suriratna is known as Heo Hwang-ok in South Korea. The First Lady of South Korea, Kim Jung-Sook visited Ayodhya in November of 2018 to participate in the ground-breaking ceremony of Queen Suriratna Memorial in the city. North Korean in the focus The visit comes even as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is all set to met US President Donald Trump for the 2nd US-North Korea summit in Vietnam on 27th and 28th February. They met last year in Singapore for the 1st summit. Asked about if North Korea be discussed, Secretary East said, "We have a very multifaceted relationship with Korea. We discuss issues of mutual interest, regional and global issues. The conversation which is going on with the DPRK (North Korea) is an important conversation. India welcomes discussions and dialogues which will help in reducing tensions and paving the way for peace and reconciliation in the Korean Peninsula." Without naming Pakistan secretary said, we "hope that the resolution of the Korean Peninsula will take into account and address our concerns about proliferation linkages in India’s neighbourhood." It is widely believed that Pakistani physicist AQ Khan had given sensitive information on uranium enrichment to North Korea in exchange of missile technology with approval from former Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto. PM Modi had visited South Korea in May of 2015. South Korean president Moon Jae In visit India in July 2018. During his visit, he along with PM Modi inaugurated the new manufacturing facility of South Korean major Samsung in Noida which is the largest mobile phone manufacturing plant of the company anywhere in the world. After President Moon's election victory in 2017, PM Modi was the 4th international leader to congratulate him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in South Korea for two days; to be honoured with Seoul Peace Prize 

Saudi Crown Prince Arrives In India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade with Saudi Arabia's crown prince who is on a two-day India visit.&nbsp;The complicity of Pakistan in Pulwama attack was also underlined by both sides when Indian PM sat with Saudi Prince at Hyderabad House. Both the leaders condemned the Pulwama terror attack in strongest term and called on states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries.

Speaking at the joint press conference, PM Modi called for countries who support terror to be put under pressure. Recalling the last week's Pulwama terror attack, PM said, "attack shows the inhumane face of this scourge and threat to the world. To act effectively against terror, both agree, pressure needs to be put on countries who support terror. &nbsp;Need to destroy the infrastructure of terror, those who support terror. Need a common action plan against extremism."

This is the second&nbsp;meeting between the Indian Prime minister and Saudi Prince in the last 3 months. The last met on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on 30th November.

Saudi Crown speaking about the common concerns on terror and extremism, said, "We would like every kind of cooperation with India, especially on intelligence sharing. Not only India, we will also work with countries in the region to act against the scourge to have a better future."

Briefing the reporters later Secretary ER TS Tirumurti said, "both leaders underlined the importance of comprehensive sanctioning of terrorist and their organisations by United Nations" and emphasised the early adoption of a comprehensive convention on international terrorism (CCIT) that calls for a common definition of terrorism.

Saudi Prince Laud's PM's peace efforts&nbsp; 
Saudi crown prince appreciated PM Modi's "consistent efforts" since May 2014 including PM's "personal initiative to have friendly relations with Pakistan". Both sides agreed for the need for the "creation of conditions necessary" for the resumption of comprehensive dialogue between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

100 Billion dollar investment in India 
5 MoU were exchanged, which were, investment in India's National Investment and Infrastructure, tourism, housing, Framework Cooperation Program between Invest India and Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority &amp; public broadcaster of both the countries. Saudi Arabia has also joined the International solar alliance, becoming the 73rd country to do so. Saudi Arabia announced an investment of &nbsp;$100 billion in a range of areas including energy, refining, petrochemical, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing which was welcomed by India.&nbsp;

People to people contact focus 
Earlier in the day, the prince was given a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan and lauded role by played by Indians in building the kingdom. He said, "Since we remember ourselves, Indian people are friends and part of building Saudi Arabia in the past 70 years. A lot of Saudis work and develop a lot of things in India for hundreds of years."

PM Modi also lauded the positive role played by the Indian community in the country during press statements. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over US$ 11 billion annually. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has agreed to increase Haj Quota for Indians to 2 lac. India's E visa programme for Saudi Citizens is being expanded by New Delhi.

Both Riyadh and Delhi have agreed on a 2 yearly summit level meet and establishment of strategic partnership council at ministerial level between both the countries. The issue of oil prices and Indian prisoners languishing in Indian jails was also discussed.

Breaking the protocol 
The Saudi Arabia's crown Mohammed bin Salman, known famously by his initials MBS arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who broke the protocol to receive him. This was his 1st state visit to India as the Crown Prince.

Indian prime minister has in the past broken protocol for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2018), Jordan's King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein(2018), United Arab Emirates’ Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (2017) and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina (2015).

MBS came to India, a day after his 2-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something which New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Both countries are finalizing the setting up of ‘Strategic PartnershipCouncil’ at the Ministerial level. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at US$ 27.48billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's 4th largest trading partner with New Delhi get 17% of its oil imports from the country. Oil prices are something that India has been consistently raising with Saudi Arabia, an OPEC country. Saudi ARAMCO along with ADNOC of UAE in 2018 agreed to partner in Ratnagiri Refinery.India is also in touch with the west Asian country when it comes to Afghan Peace process.

Prime Minister Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016.Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country.&nbsp;

Crown Prince Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor. Saudi Arabia of course in one of the world's largest oil producers.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade with Saudi Arabia's crown prince who is on a two-day India visit. The complicity of Pakistan in Pulwama attack was also underlined by both sides when Indian PM sat with Saudi Prince at Hyderabad House.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade with Saudi Arabia's crown prince who is on a two-day India visit. The complicity of Pakistan in Pulwama attack was also underlined by both sides when Indian PM sat with Saudi Prince at Hyderabad House. Both the leaders condemned the Pulwama terror attack in strongest term and called on states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries. Speaking at the joint press conference, PM Modi called for countries who support terror to be put under pressure. Recalling the last week's Pulwama terror attack, PM said, "attack shows the inhumane face of this scourge and threat to the world. To act effectively against terror, both agree, pressure needs to be put on countries who support terror. Need to destroy the infrastructure of terror, those who support terror. Need a common action plan against extremism." This is the second meeting between the Indian Prime minister and Saudi Prince in the last 3 months. The last met on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on 30th November. Saudi Crown speaking about the common concerns on terror and extremism, said, "We would like every kind of cooperation with India, especially on intelligence sharing. Not only India, we will also work with countries in the region to act against the scourge to have a better future." Briefing the reporters later Secretary ER TS Tirumurti said, "both leaders underlined the importance of comprehensive sanctioning of terrorist and their organisations by United Nations" and emphasised the early adoption of a comprehensive convention on international terrorism (CCIT) that calls for a common definition of terrorism. Saudi Prince Laud's PM's peace efforts Saudi crown prince appreciated PM Modi's "consistent efforts" since May 2014 including PM's "personal initiative to have friendly relations with Pakistan". Both sides agreed for the need for the "creation of conditions necessary" for the resumption of comprehensive dialogue between India and Pakistan. 100 Billion dollar investment in India 5 MoU were exchanged, which were, investment in India's National Investment and Infrastructure, tourism, housing, Framework Cooperation Program between Invest India and Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority & public broadcaster of both the countries. Saudi Arabia has also joined the International solar alliance, becoming the 73rd country to do so. Saudi Arabia announced an investment of $100 billion in a range of areas including energy, refining, petrochemical, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing which was welcomed by India. People to people contact focus Earlier in the day, the prince was given a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan and lauded role by played by Indians in building the kingdom. He said, "Since we remember ourselves, Indian people are friends and part of building Saudi Arabia in the past 70 years. A lot of Saudis work and develop a lot of things in India for hundreds of years." PM Modi also lauded the positive role played by the Indian community in the country during press statements. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over US$ 11 billion annually. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has agreed to increase Haj Quota for Indians to 2 lac. India's E visa programme for Saudi Citizens is being expanded by New Delhi. Both Riyadh and Delhi have agreed on a 2 yearly summit level meet and establishment of strategic partnership council at ministerial level between both the countries. The issue of oil prices and Indian prisoners languishing in Indian jails was also discussed. Breaking the protocol The Saudi Arabia's crown Mohammed bin Salman, known famously by his initials MBS arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who broke the protocol to receive him. This was his 1st state visit to India as the Crown Prince. Indian prime minister has in the past broken protocol for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2018), Jordan's King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein(2018), United Arab Emirates’ Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (2017) and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina (2015). MBS came to India, a day after his 2-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something which New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack. India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Both countries are finalizing the setting up of ‘Strategic PartnershipCouncil’ at the Ministerial level. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at US$ 27.48billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's 4th largest trading partner with New Delhi get 17% of its oil imports from the country. Oil prices are something that India has been consistently raising with Saudi Arabia, an OPEC country. Saudi ARAMCO along with ADNOC of UAE in 2018 agreed to partner in Ratnagiri Refinery.India is also in touch with the west Asian country when it comes to Afghan Peace process. Prime Minister Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016.Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country. Crown Prince Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor. Saudi Arabia of course in one of the world's largest oil producers.

Saudi announces $100 bn investment; complicity of Pakistan in Pulwama strike underlined: MEA 

Drugs are "not cool" and its use is not a style statement, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-breaks-protocol-to-receive-saudi-arabias-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-198391">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> said Tuesday.

In a video message played out to mark the Drug Free India Campaign, he also said narcotics trade is a big threat to the safety and security of India.

Terming, drugs as a great menace to society, the prime minister said, as per WHO estimates, over three crore people around the world are suffering from drug addiction.

It is alarming, he said, to see so many youngsters indulging in substance abuse.

Drugs are not cool. It is a big misconception that drugs are a style statement, Modi said according to a statement from his office.

The prime minister said in addition, to health problems and destruction of families due to substance abuse, narcotics trade is a great threat to the safety and security of the country.

Modi pointed out that narcotics trade is one of the biggest sources of income for terrorists and anti-national elements, and the money sourced by these elements through drug trade is used to destabilize the nation.

He said those having self-confidence and self-belief will not easily fall prey to drugs use, and also asked the young generation to support and help those suffering from drug addiction.&nbsp;

The prime minister highlighted the various initiatives taken by the government to curb the menace of drug addiction.

Students from colleges all across the country, listened to the Prime Minister's address through video conference, the statement said.&nbsp;

Drugs are "not cool" and its use is not a style statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday. In a video message played out to mark the Drug Free India Campaign, he also said narcotics trade is a big threat to the safety and security of India.

Drugs are "not cool" and its use is not a style statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Tuesday. In a video message played out to mark the Drug Free India Campaign, he also said narcotics trade is a big threat to the safety and security of India. Terming, drugs as a great menace to society, the prime minister said, as per WHO estimates, over three crore people around the world are suffering from drug addiction. It is alarming, he said, to see so many youngsters indulging in substance abuse. Drugs are not cool. It is a big misconception that drugs are a style statement, Modi said according to a statement from his office. The prime minister said in addition, to health problems and destruction of families due to substance abuse, narcotics trade is a great threat to the safety and security of the country. Modi pointed out that narcotics trade is one of the biggest sources of income for terrorists and anti-national elements, and the money sourced by these elements through drug trade is used to destabilize the nation. He said those having self-confidence and self-belief will not easily fall prey to drugs use, and also asked the young generation to support and help those suffering from drug addiction. The prime minister highlighted the various initiatives taken by the government to curb the menace of drug addiction. Students from colleges all across the country, listened to the Prime Minister's address through video conference, the statement said.

Drugs are 'not cool', narcotics trade threat to safety and security of country: PM Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade ties with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who is on a two-day India visit.

Addressing a joint press conference, PM Modi called for countries who support terror to be put under pressure.

Recalling the last week's Pulwama terror attack, PM said, "attack shows the inhumane face of this scourge and threat to the world. To act effectively against terror, both agreed, pressure needs to be put on countries who support terror. &nbsp;Need to destroy the infrastructure of terror, those who support terror. Need a common action plan against extremism."

This is the second meeting between the Indian PM and the Saudi prince in the last three months. They last met on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on November 30.

Speaking about the common concerns on terror and extremism, the Saudi prince said, "We would like every kind of cooperation with India, especially on intelligence sharing. Not only India, but we will also work with countries in the region to act against the scourge to have a better future."

Both countries signed five MoUs on India's National Investment and Infrastructure, tourism, housing, Framework Cooperation Program between Invest India and Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority and public broadcaster of both the countries.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia has also joined the International solar alliance, becoming the 73rd country to do so. India's E visa programme for Saudi Citizens is also being expanded.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, he was given a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan. He also lauded role by played by Indians in building the kingdom.

"Since we remember ourselves, Indian people are friends and part of building Saudi Arabia in the past 70 years. A lot of Saudis work and develop a lot of things in India for hundreds of years," Modi said.

PM Modi also lauded the positive role played by the Indian community in the country. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over US$ 11 billion annually.&nbsp;

Last year, Saudi Arabia increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year.

Both Riyadh and New Delhi have agreed on a two yearly summit-level meet and establishment of strategic partnership council at ministerial level between both the countries.

Crown prince arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

MBS arrived in India a day after his two-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something which New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at US$ 27.48billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's fourth largest trading partner with New Delhi getting 17 per cent of its oil imports from the country.&nbsp;

Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country.&nbsp;

Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade ties with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who is on a two-day India visit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday discussed terror and trade ties with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman who is on a two-day India visit. Addressing a joint press conference, PM Modi called for countries who support terror to be put under pressure. Recalling the last week's Pulwama terror attack, PM said, "attack shows the inhumane face of this scourge and threat to the world. To act effectively against terror, both agreed, pressure needs to be put on countries who support terror. Need to destroy the infrastructure of terror, those who support terror. Need a common action plan against extremism." This is the second meeting between the Indian PM and the Saudi prince in the last three months. They last met on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on November 30. Speaking about the common concerns on terror and extremism, the Saudi prince said, "We would like every kind of cooperation with India, especially on intelligence sharing. Not only India, but we will also work with countries in the region to act against the scourge to have a better future." Both countries signed five MoUs on India's National Investment and Infrastructure, tourism, housing, Framework Cooperation Program between Invest India and Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority and public broadcaster of both the countries. Saudi Arabia has also joined the International solar alliance, becoming the 73rd country to do so. India's E visa programme for Saudi Citizens is also being expanded. Earlier in the day, he was given a ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan. He also lauded role by played by Indians in building the kingdom. "Since we remember ourselves, Indian people are friends and part of building Saudi Arabia in the past 70 years. A lot of Saudis work and develop a lot of things in India for hundreds of years," Modi said. PM Modi also lauded the positive role played by the Indian community in the country. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over US$ 11 billion annually. Last year, Saudi Arabia increased the Indian Haj quota by 5,000, enabling 1,75,025 Indians to undertake the pilgrimage last year. Both Riyadh and New Delhi have agreed on a two yearly summit-level meet and establishment of strategic partnership council at ministerial level between both the countries. Crown prince arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. MBS arrived in India a day after his two-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something which New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack. India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at US$ 27.48billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's fourth largest trading partner with New Delhi getting 17 per cent of its oil imports from the country. Modi had visited Riyadh in April 2016. Saudi Arabia's King Salman had honoured him then with the "Sash of King Abdulaziz", the highest civilian decoration awarded by the West Asian country. Salman is Saudi Arabia's second-most important person after the king and his designated successor.

Terror, trade ties in focus in talks between PM Modi and Saudi Crown Prince Salman 

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror.&nbsp;

"Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said.&nbsp;

"We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations," he added.&nbsp;

Salman made his comments in a joint statement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after delegation-level talks between them.&nbsp;

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Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman: Extremism &amp; terrorism are our common concerns.We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations. <a href="https://t.co/io5oIvFzTX">pic.twitter.com/io5oIvFzTX</a>
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PM Modi: Pulwama mein hua barbar hamla duniya par chhai khatre ki nishani hai, hum is baat par sahmat hain ki atankwaad ko samarthan dene waale deshon pe sambhav dabav banane ki avyashkata hai <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaSaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaSaudiArabia</a> <a href="https://t.co/MmSprEgg1J">pic.twitter.com/MmSprEgg1J</a>
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"We agreed that there is a need to increase pressure on the countries which support terrorism," Modi said, adding that the two had also discussed greater defence cooperation.&nbsp;

He added that the attacks in Pulwama cast their shadow not only on India but also on the world.&nbsp;

Modi also said that Saudi Arabia is one of India's "most valuable strategic partners".&nbsp;

He added that "our relations have grown stronger" and that he welcomed "Saudi investment in Indian infrastructure".&nbsp;

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror. "Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman told India on Wednesday that his country would "cooperate on all fronts" with India against terror. "Extremism and terrorism are our common concerns," Salman said. "We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations," he added. Salman made his comments in a joint statement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after delegation-level talks between them. Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman: Extremism & terrorism are our common concerns.We would like to tell our friend India that we'll cooperate on all fronts, be it intelligence sharing. We'll work with everyone to ensure a brighter future for our upcoming generations. pic.twitter.com/io5oIvFzTX — ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2019 × PM Modi: Pulwama mein hua barbar hamla duniya par chhai khatre ki nishani hai, hum is baat par sahmat hain ki atankwaad ko samarthan dene waale deshon pe sambhav dabav banane ki avyashkata hai #IndiaSaudiArabia pic.twitter.com/MmSprEgg1J — ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2019 × "We agreed that there is a need to increase pressure on the countries which support terrorism," Modi said, adding that the two had also discussed greater defence cooperation. He added that the attacks in Pulwama cast their shadow not only on India but also on the world. Modi also said that Saudi Arabia is one of India's "most valuable strategic partners". He added that "our relations have grown stronger" and that he welcomed "Saudi investment in Indian infrastructure".

Will 'cooperate on all fronts' against terror: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday flagged off an electric locomotive converted from a diesel engine at the Diesel Locomotives Works (DLW) in his constituency here.

In a first, the Indian Railways has converted a diesel locomotive into an electric one, as part of efforts to completely electrify the broad gauge network.&nbsp;

Immediately after landing here, the prime minister reached DLW and flagged off the electric locomotive. He also inspected the engine from inside.

The work on the project began on December 22, 2017 and from concept to execution of the conversion of the diesel locomotive to electric was carried out in just 69 days, railway officials said.

In keeping with the Indian Railways' Mission 100 per cent electrification and de-carbonization agenda, DLW has developed a new prototype electric locomotive converted from diesel locomotive.

The prime minister will also visit the Sant Ravidas Temple to participate in the birth anniversary celebrations of the mystic poet of the Bhakti Movement and attend several other programmes besides laying the foundation stone of projects worth several hundred crores.

He will also address a public meeting later in the day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday flagged off an electric locomotive converted from a diesel engine at the Diesel Locomotives Works (DLW) in his constituency here.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday flagged off an electric locomotive converted from a diesel engine at the Diesel Locomotives Works (DLW) in his constituency here. In a first, the Indian Railways has converted a diesel locomotive into an electric one, as part of efforts to completely electrify the broad gauge network. Immediately after landing here, the prime minister reached DLW and flagged off the electric locomotive. He also inspected the engine from inside. The work on the project began on December 22, 2017 and from concept to execution of the conversion of the diesel locomotive to electric was carried out in just 69 days, railway officials said. In keeping with the Indian Railways' Mission 100 per cent electrification and de-carbonization agenda, DLW has developed a new prototype electric locomotive converted from diesel locomotive. The prime minister will also visit the Sant Ravidas Temple to participate in the birth anniversary celebrations of the mystic poet of the Bhakti Movement and attend several other programmes besides laying the foundation stone of projects worth several hundred crores. He will also address a public meeting later in the day.

PM Modi unveils diesel-turned-electric locomotive in Varanasi

Saudi Arabia's crown Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud arrived in India on Tuesday evening with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi breaking the protocol to receive him. With a hug by Prime Minister to the Mohammed bin Salman, known famously by his initials MBS he was welcomed amid the bhangra and a show of Indian culture.&nbsp;

Indian prime minister has in the past broken protocol for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2018), Jordan's King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein(2018), United Arab Emirates’ Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (2017) and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina (2015).

This is the second meeting between the Indian Prime minister and Saudi Prince in the last 3 months. The last met on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on 30th November. Wednesday will be the main day of engagement when he will be welcomed at Rashtrapati Bhawan, followed by bilateral and delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House.

The focus will be on terror in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack last week in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. New Delhi will be keen that Riyadh mounts pressure on its traditional ally Pakistan. With Pakistan backed terror group Jaish e Mohammad claiming responsibility for the attack, India will be hoping that Saudi Arabia comes hard on Pakistan especially by way of tightening the purse strings.

MBS comes to India, a day after his 2-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

Sources have told WION,"a strong statement on terror is expect" since Saudi does not now &nbsp;"accept Pakistani narrative on terror" and the West Asian country's narrative on terror has "evolved over the year."

India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Both countries are finalizing the setting up of ‘Strategic Partnership Council’ at the Ministerial level. &nbsp;Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at US$ 27.48 billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's 4th largest trading partner with New Delhi get 17% of its oil imports from the country. Oil prices are something that India has been consistently raising with Saudi Arabia, an OPEC country. Saudi ARAMCO along with ADNOC of UAE in 2018 agreed to partner in Ratnagiri Refinery.

Saudi Arabia will soon be joining the International Solar Alliance initiative.

The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over US$ 11 billion annually. Last year the kingdom increased India's Haj quota by 5000.

Saudi Arabia's crown Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud arrived in India on Tuesday evening with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi breaking the protocol to receive him.

Saudi Arabia's crown Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud arrived in India on Tuesday evening with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi breaking the protocol to receive him. With a hug by Prime Minister to the Mohammed bin Salman, known famously by his initials MBS he was welcomed amid the bhangra and a show of Indian culture. Indian prime minister has in the past broken protocol for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (2018), Jordan's King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein(2018), United Arab Emirates’ Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (2017) and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina (2015). This is the second meeting between the Indian Prime minister and Saudi Prince in the last 3 months. The last met on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina on 30th November. Wednesday will be the main day of engagement when he will be welcomed at Rashtrapati Bhawan, followed by bilateral and delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House. The focus will be on terror in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack last week in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed. New Delhi will be keen that Riyadh mounts pressure on its traditional ally Pakistan. With Pakistan backed terror group Jaish e Mohammad claiming responsibility for the attack, India will be hoping that Saudi Arabia comes hard on Pakistan especially by way of tightening the purse strings. MBS comes to India, a day after his 2-day visit to Pakistan. It is interesting to note that the Saudi prince went back to Riyadh after his Pakistan visit, and came back again to New Delhi, a development which many will see de-hyphenation by Saudi Arabia between Pakistan and India and something New Delhi will prefer in the aftermath of Pulwama terror attack. Sources have told WION,"a strong statement on terror is expect" since Saudi does not now "accept Pakistani narrative on terror" and the West Asian country's narrative on terror has "evolved over the year." India is one of the eight strategic partners of Saudi Arabia with which the West Asian country intends to deepen partnership in areas of political, security, trade and investment and culture. Both countries are finalizing the setting up of ‘Strategic Partnership Council’ at the Ministerial level. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at US$ 27.48 billion in the financial year 2017-18. Saudi Arabia is India's 4th largest trading partner with New Delhi get 17% of its oil imports from the country. Oil prices are something that India has been consistently raising with Saudi Arabia, an OPEC country. Saudi ARAMCO along with ADNOC of UAE in 2018 agreed to partner in Ratnagiri Refinery. Saudi Arabia will soon be joining the International Solar Alliance initiative. The country hosts 2.7 million strong Indian community, one of the largest in west Asia, sending remittance of over US$ 11 billion annually. Last year the kingdom increased India's Haj quota by 5000.

PM Narendra Modi breaks protocol to receive Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed bin Salman

Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has claimed responsibility for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Thursday, which left at least 40 CRPF soldiers dead and five others critically wounded.

This heinous act has outraged the collective conscience of the Indian nation.&nbsp;

India’s relations with Pakistan have been defined by the Partition of British India in 1947, the Kashmir conundrum and military conflicts fought between the two countries. 
 
The relations have always been plagued by conflicts, hostilities and mutual suspicion, despite the fact that the two South Asian nations share common linguistic, cultural, geographical and economic linkages.

Pakistan’s use of terrorist groups as part of its security and foreign policy is a function of its obsession with India, which it perceives as an existential threat.

The ideology of Pakistan is built on the twin pillars of Islam and antagonism towards India. It has never realised that as a nation state, it needs to create a history of its own and move forward. It has preferred to live with historical appropriation and distortions of the past.

Pakistan could acknowledge its Indian heritage, as well as the Muslimness of a majority of its population. Instead, successive Pakistani leaders and its intelligentsia have preferred to build the idea of Pakistan on the pillars of Islam and antagonism towards India.

Pakistan’s paranoia regarding India is unfounded. There have been military engagements, an ongoing undeclared war, numerous skirmishes and stand-offs.

Many successful attempts to improve relations through the Shimla agreement, Agra and Lahore summits, among others, have fallen apart.

Relations soured after the Siachen conflict of 1980, the Kashmir insurgency of 1989 and the Kargil war of 1999.

The terror attack on the Indian Parliament in 2001 almost brought the two nuclear nations to the brink of war.

The Mumbai attack of 2008 by Pakistan-based terrorists and killing of hundreds and continuing support to terrorists in Kashmir to delegitimise the idea of India, continues.&nbsp;

Pakistan is on notice from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and China has removed its objections to put Islamabad on the ‘grey list’ by FATF.

Pakistan, on the global terrorist financing list from June 2018 onwards, risks endangering its handful of remaining banking links with the outside world, causing financial distress to its economy. Saudi Arabia, too, also removed its objection and now only Turkey stands in support of Pakistan.

President Donald Trump has said it is the time to expose and hold responsible those countries who breed, support and finance terror groups.

The Trump administration has charted out its South Asia policy in which it has accorded a larger role for India in Afghanistan and in South Asia and has put Pakistan on notice.

Pakistan’s temper tantrums and petulant responses are not convincing. Islamabad has to take a hard look at its options. It has to effectively shutdown terror factories being nurtured in its backyard.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received unconditional support from the opposition parties and the citizenry to deal with Pakistan sternly and flush out terrorists from Kashmir and elsewhere in the country.

The country is resolutely standing behind India and the Prime Minister in this critical hour.

India does not buy any formula on Kashmir, as it firmly believes terror and talks cannot go together until Pakistan brings to book the perpetrators of 26/11 Mumbai attack and accounts for other terror acts executed. The territorial status of Kashmir is clearly not negotiable.

The country expects the government and Prime Minister Modi to act now. It is examining various options, including the military option.

As part of its comprehensive strategy, India is resorting to an aggressive diplomatic offensive against Pakistan by mobilising its resources and pressuring the world to declare Pakistan as ‘terroristan’.

The Modi government is required to act decisively, keeping in view that the US needs Pakistan’s help to negotiate with the Taliban in Afghanistan, strike its defence deals with Russia, with China on the side of Russians.

Therefore India needs an appropriate and calibrated modus operandi to deal boldly with Pakistan. The nation and the global community is anxiously waiting and watching.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-world-watching-india-pm-for-response-to-pulwama-2721138">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has claimed responsibility for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Thursday, which left at least 40 CRPF soldiers dead and five others critically wounded.

Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has claimed responsibility for the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Thursday, which left at least 40 CRPF soldiers dead and five others critically wounded. This heinous act has outraged the collective conscience of the Indian nation. India’s relations with Pakistan have been defined by the Partition of British India in 1947, the Kashmir conundrum and military conflicts fought between the two countries. The relations have always been plagued by conflicts, hostilities and mutual suspicion, despite the fact that the two South Asian nations share common linguistic, cultural, geographical and economic linkages. Pakistan’s use of terrorist groups as part of its security and foreign policy is a function of its obsession with India, which it perceives as an existential threat. The ideology of Pakistan is built on the twin pillars of Islam and antagonism towards India. It has never realised that as a nation state, it needs to create a history of its own and move forward. It has preferred to live with historical appropriation and distortions of the past. Pakistan could acknowledge its Indian heritage, as well as the Muslimness of a majority of its population. Instead, successive Pakistani leaders and its intelligentsia have preferred to build the idea of Pakistan on the pillars of Islam and antagonism towards India. Pakistan’s paranoia regarding India is unfounded. There have been military engagements, an ongoing undeclared war, numerous skirmishes and stand-offs. Many successful attempts to improve relations through the Shimla agreement, Agra and Lahore summits, among others, have fallen apart. Relations soured after the Siachen conflict of 1980, the Kashmir insurgency of 1989 and the Kargil war of 1999. The terror attack on the Indian Parliament in 2001 almost brought the two nuclear nations to the brink of war. The Mumbai attack of 2008 by Pakistan-based terrorists and killing of hundreds and continuing support to terrorists in Kashmir to delegitimise the idea of India, continues. Pakistan is on notice from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and China has removed its objections to put Islamabad on the ‘grey list’ by FATF. Pakistan, on the global terrorist financing list from June 2018 onwards, risks endangering its handful of remaining banking links with the outside world, causing financial distress to its economy. Saudi Arabia, too, also removed its objection and now only Turkey stands in support of Pakistan. President Donald Trump has said it is the time to expose and hold responsible those countries who breed, support and finance terror groups. The Trump administration has charted out its South Asia policy in which it has accorded a larger role for India in Afghanistan and in South Asia and has put Pakistan on notice. Pakistan’s temper tantrums and petulant responses are not convincing. Islamabad has to take a hard look at its options. It has to effectively shutdown terror factories being nurtured in its backyard. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has received unconditional support from the opposition parties and the citizenry to deal with Pakistan sternly and flush out terrorists from Kashmir and elsewhere in the country. The country is resolutely standing behind India and the Prime Minister in this critical hour. India does not buy any formula on Kashmir, as it firmly believes terror and talks cannot go together until Pakistan brings to book the perpetrators of 26/11 Mumbai attack and accounts for other terror acts executed. The territorial status of Kashmir is clearly not negotiable. The country expects the government and Prime Minister Modi to act now. It is examining various options, including the military option. As part of its comprehensive strategy, India is resorting to an aggressive diplomatic offensive against Pakistan by mobilising its resources and pressuring the world to declare Pakistan as ‘terroristan’. The Modi government is required to act decisively, keeping in view that the US needs Pakistan’s help to negotiate with the Taliban in Afghanistan, strike its defence deals with Russia, with China on the side of Russians. Therefore India needs an appropriate and calibrated modus operandi to deal boldly with Pakistan. The nation and the global community is anxiously waiting and watching. (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.)

Pulwama attack: India needs calibrated modus operandi to deal boldly with Pakistan

Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday said that the priority of the country's leadership should be to ensure that bulletproof jackets are provided to its soldiers, rather than focussing on bullet trains.

Addressing a press conference in Lucknow, Mr Yadav took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government's ambitious bullet train project and said, "Today, the country does not require a bullet train, it is more important that our soldiers get bulletproof jackets."

Akhilesh Yadav's comment comes in the wake of the terror on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama last week, in which over 40 soldiers were killed.

The Samajwadi Party leader also raised questions over intelligence agencies and called on the centre to formulate a long-term strategy for securing the country's borders.

"Why is our Intelligence failing? You can't compensate for the loss of lives. The nation stands by its security forces and jawans. If all political parties have put their political events on hold, the ruling party should do the same and form a long-term strategy to secure our borders," Mr Yadav said.

Earlier on Monday, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court seeking direction from the central government to constitute a commission headed by a retired Supreme Court judge along with Army, intelligence and local administration to conduct an investigation into the Uri attack in 2016 and the Pulwama terror attack.

Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday said that the priority of the country's leadership should be to ensure that bulletproof jackets are provided to its soldiers, rather than focussing on bullet trains.

Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday said that the priority of the country's leadership should be to ensure that bulletproof jackets are provided to its soldiers, rather than focussing on bullet trains. Addressing a press conference in Lucknow, Mr Yadav took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government's ambitious bullet train project and said, "Today, the country does not require a bullet train, it is more important that our soldiers get bulletproof jackets." Akhilesh Yadav's comment comes in the wake of the terror on a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama last week, in which over 40 soldiers were killed. The Samajwadi Party leader also raised questions over intelligence agencies and called on the centre to formulate a long-term strategy for securing the country's borders. "Why is our Intelligence failing? You can't compensate for the loss of lives. The nation stands by its security forces and jawans. If all political parties have put their political events on hold, the ruling party should do the same and form a long-term strategy to secure our borders," Mr Yadav said. Earlier on Monday, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court seeking direction from the central government to constitute a commission headed by a retired Supreme Court judge along with Army, intelligence and local administration to conduct an investigation into the Uri attack in 2016 and the Pulwama terror attack.

Don't need bullet train, soldiers should get bulletproof jackets: Akhilesh Yadav

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sixteen-us-states-sue-trump-over-border-wall-emergency-198197">Sixteen US states sue Trump after he declares emergency to fund border wall</a>

Sixteen US states sued President Donald Trump's administration on Monday over his decision to declare a national emergency to fund a wall on the southern border with Mexico, saying the move violated the constitution.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/saudi-crown-prince-salman-to-arrive-in-india-today-198189">Saudi Crown Prince Salman to land in India today</a>

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad-bin Salman will arrive in New Delhi on Tuesday on his maiden visit to the country.

India is likely to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two countries are expected to sign ties to enhance cooperation in various fields during the "landmark event in high-level bilateral ties".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-venezuela-military-to-back-opposition-leader-guaido-or-lose-everything-198182">Trump tells Venezuela military to back opposition leader Guaido or 'lose everything'</a>

US President Donald Trump urged Venezuela's military Monday to accept opposition leader Juan Guaido's amnesty offer, or stand to "lose everything," as a crisis deepened over President Nicolas Maduro's refusal to let in desperately needed humanitarian aid.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-readies-to-launch-worlds-first-private-spacecraft-to-moon-198194">Israel readies to launch </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-readies-to-launch-worlds-first-private-spacecraft-to-moon-198194">world's</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-readies-to-launch-worlds-first-private-spacecraft-to-moon-198194"> first private spacecraft to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/israel-readies-to-launch-worlds-first-private-spacecraft-to-moon-198194">moon</a>

Israel was gearing up to launch a spacecraft to the moon that will be the first private initiative of its kind in the world, the non-profit organization responsible for the project announced on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kissing-sailor-in-iconic-new-york-picture-dies-at-95-198199">'Kissing sailor' in iconic New York picture dies at 95</a>

The sailor pictured kissing a woman in Times Square as people celebrated the end of World War II has died at age 95, his daughter told The Providence Journal.

George Mendonsa had a seizure Sunday after falling at an assisted living facility in Middletown, Rhode Island, his daughter Sharon Molleur said.

Sixteen US states sue Trump after he declares emergency to fund border wall Sixteen US states sued President Donald Trump's administration on Monday over his decision to declare a national emergency to fund a wall on the southern border with Mexico, saying the move violated the constitution.

Sixteen US states sue Trump after he declares emergency to fund border wall Sixteen US states sued President Donald Trump's administration on Monday over his decision to declare a national emergency to fund a wall on the southern border with Mexico, saying the move violated the constitution. Saudi Crown Prince Salman to land in India today Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad-bin Salman will arrive in New Delhi on Tuesday on his maiden visit to the country. India is likely to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two countries are expected to sign ties to enhance cooperation in various fields during the "landmark event in high-level bilateral ties". Trump tells Venezuela military to back opposition leader Guaido or 'lose everything' US President Donald Trump urged Venezuela's military Monday to accept opposition leader Juan Guaido's amnesty offer, or stand to "lose everything," as a crisis deepened over President Nicolas Maduro's refusal to let in desperately needed humanitarian aid. Israel readies to launch world's first private spacecraft to moon Israel was gearing up to launch a spacecraft to the moon that will be the first private initiative of its kind in the world, the non-profit organization responsible for the project announced on Monday. 'Kissing sailor' in iconic New York picture dies at 95 The sailor pictured kissing a woman in Times Square as people celebrated the end of World War II has died at age 95, his daughter told The Providence Journal. George Mendonsa had a seizure Sunday after falling at an assisted living facility in Middletown, Rhode Island, his daughter Sharon Molleur said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-honors-saudi-crown-prince-with-highest-civilian-award-198136">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad-bin Salman</a> will arrive in New Delhi on Tuesday on his maiden visit to the country.

India is likely to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two countries are expected to sign ties to enhance cooperation in various fields during the "landmark event in high-level bilateral ties".

"Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman visit to India will be a landmark event in the history of our high-level bilateral engagements and they will certainly take an upward strategic direction,” Arab News quoted Indian ambassador in Riyadh Ahmad Javed as saying.

MBS, as the Saudi Crown Prince is also known, will hold bilateral talks during his two-day visit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a wide range of issues of mutual interest including counter-terrorism, defence and security.&nbsp;

India and Saudi Arabia are also expected to sign five MoUs in fields ranging from defence, healthcare etc.

According to the External Affairs Ministry, the talks on investment of US $44 billion by Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in Ratnagiri Refinery project are also likely to take place.

The Saudi crown prince will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Vice President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, senior officials and leading Saudi businessmen.

The visit by MBS could be considered as important after the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed by Pakistan-backed JeM terrorist group, as India adopted coercive diplomacy against Pakistan.

In addition, there is a big transformation in Saudi understanding of terrorism and Jammu and Kashmir in the last few years. Saudi made a very strong denouncement of Pulwama terror attack and did not accept Pakistan`s narrative.

India and Saudi Arabia are also expected to hold joint Naval exercises in the near future in efforts to deepen the defence ties.

Recently, Saudi Arabia has ranked India as the 8th strategic partner. Bilateral trade between the countries stood at US$ 27.48 billion during the last financial year 2017-18.

During the forthcoming visit, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu. The visit follows the highly successful visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia in April 2016.

India and Saudi Arabia have historically enjoyed close and friendly relations anchored in mutually beneficial partnership and extensive people to people contacts. In recent years, there has been significant progress in bilateral cooperation in key areas of mutual interest, including energy security, trade and investment, infrastructure, defence and security.

About 2.7 million strong and vibrant Indian community forms the largest expatriate group in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia also facilitates Hajj pilgrimage to over 1,75,000 Indians every year.

The Saudi Crown Prince has embarked on a four-country Asian tour that besides India, also includes Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia. He recently concluded his Pakistan visit.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad-bin Salman will arrive in New Delhi on Tuesday on his maiden visit to the country. India is likely to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two countries are expected to sign ties to enhance cooperation in various fields during the "landmark event in high-level bilateral ties".

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad-bin Salman will arrive in New Delhi on Tuesday on his maiden visit to the country. India is likely to raise the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and the two countries are expected to sign ties to enhance cooperation in various fields during the "landmark event in high-level bilateral ties". "Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman visit to India will be a landmark event in the history of our high-level bilateral engagements and they will certainly take an upward strategic direction,” Arab News quoted Indian ambassador in Riyadh Ahmad Javed as saying. MBS, as the Saudi Crown Prince is also known, will hold bilateral talks during his two-day visit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a wide range of issues of mutual interest including counter-terrorism, defence and security. India and Saudi Arabia are also expected to sign five MoUs in fields ranging from defence, healthcare etc. According to the External Affairs Ministry, the talks on investment of US $44 billion by Saudi Aramco and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) in Ratnagiri Refinery project are also likely to take place. The Saudi crown prince will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Vice President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, senior officials and leading Saudi businessmen. The visit by MBS could be considered as important after the Pulwama terror attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed by Pakistan-backed JeM terrorist group, as India adopted coercive diplomacy against Pakistan. In addition, there is a big transformation in Saudi understanding of terrorism and Jammu and Kashmir in the last few years. Saudi made a very strong denouncement of Pulwama terror attack and did not accept Pakistan`s narrative. India and Saudi Arabia are also expected to hold joint Naval exercises in the near future in efforts to deepen the defence ties. Recently, Saudi Arabia has ranked India as the 8th strategic partner. Bilateral trade between the countries stood at US$ 27.48 billion during the last financial year 2017-18. During the forthcoming visit, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President Venkaiah Naidu. The visit follows the highly successful visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Saudi Arabia in April 2016. India and Saudi Arabia have historically enjoyed close and friendly relations anchored in mutually beneficial partnership and extensive people to people contacts. In recent years, there has been significant progress in bilateral cooperation in key areas of mutual interest, including energy security, trade and investment, infrastructure, defence and security. About 2.7 million strong and vibrant Indian community forms the largest expatriate group in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia also facilitates Hajj pilgrimage to over 1,75,000 Indians every year. The Saudi Crown Prince has embarked on a four-country Asian tour that besides India, also includes Pakistan, Malaysia, Indonesia. He recently concluded his Pakistan visit.

Saudi Crown Prince Salman to land in India today

Does it make sense for India to get words of help from a superpower called the United States of America that no longer behaves like one? Does it make sense for India to have hostile neighbours when it has the world's fastest-growing major economy? Should it do something that could exacerbate tensions that affects the mood of investors?&nbsp;

Tough challenges face Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence after last week's horrendous car bomb attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists on a convoy of Central Reserve Police Force jawans at Pulwama in Kashmir, in which at least 40 men were martyred.

It is fine to light candles to mourn the victims and cry out in outrage against Pakistan's help for jihadi terror groups on its soil, and fine for the Army to carry out retaliatory operations as it happened in the aftermath of the attack. But one harsh reality remains: the world has changed so much, that a painstakingly built-up diplomatic advantage that India had in cornering Pakistan after the 9/11 attacks in New York by Al Qaeda in 2001 and then the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai in 2008 has been considerably eroded by the flow of events since then.

What this means is that even as India reserves the right to secure its territory from attackers and terrorists, it is a lonely game in which it has to walk diplomatic tightropes all around.

Pakistan is neither the failed state it is often painted to be, nor isolated in the international community. While Indians lit candles to mourn dead jawans, Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad was playing chauffeur to Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman, whose team pledged $20 billion investments into Pakistan - and that is about Rs 140,000 crore! Contrast that with the fact that the annual export from Pakistan to India affected by New Delhi withdrawing the Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan is less than $ 0.5 billion.

China, which has rejected India's attempts at the United Nations to declare Jaish-e-Mohammed's chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist despite overwhelming evidence is clearly not helping India in containing terrorism. Please also recall that Pakistan's then army chief and later miltary dictator Pervez Musharraf was in Beijing when the Kargil war broke out in 1999 - under his supervision.

Last month, Pakistan and China decided to widen the scope of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), including expansion of activities in the Gwadar Port in Balochistan. CPEC passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and involves investments estimated at $62 billion - and that is worth about Rs 440,000 crore! The Chinese dragon won't spew that kind of money without a quid-pro-quo. Beijing's mandarins now have a clear access to the Arabian Sea through Pakistan.

All this is happening while the US is busy pulling its troops out of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India now has to deal with a new geopolitical reality in which Washington is less interested in policing the planet while China is helping Pakistan. Some of that Saudi money coming into Pakistan may well trickle towards jihadi groups. Islamabad is cleverly hedging its bets by keeping both the Saudis and the Chinese happy. Failed state, did someone say?&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as India warms up to Iran, Saudi Arabia is slamming Tehran for blaming it for an attack last week that killed 27 members of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard. Tehran, after blaming the Saudis, now blames Pakistan. It is all very messy but it is vital to note the attack took place on the Iranian side of Balochistan.

Officially, everybody condemns terrorism but ground realities are different.

India now has the lever of trade to tackle Beijing. China is the leading maker or exporter of smartphones sold in India and its investors are hot in India's digital economy. The RSS-affiliated Swadeshi Jagran Manch has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek a ban on Chinese companies in India. India imported Chinese goods worth $68 billion in 2017 and its exports to China was about $16 billion.&nbsp;

India's best bet could stem from the fact that the US and China are also in the middle of a trade war while Beijing badly needs help to boost its sagging economy. But India also gets investments into India from China, with billion-dollar-valuation startups like PayTm gaining significantly. It is a complicated chessboard, but trade seems to be the best lever India can use to make China see reason.&nbsp;

Indians lighting candles for Pulwama victims may well pause a moment to think of the dragon in the neighbourhood. The government could do with some help.

 
(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/lonely-after-pulwama-indias-diplomatic-challenge-as-saudi-arabia-and-china-embrace-pakistan-2181690.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

Does it make sense for India to get words of help from a superpower called the United States of America that no longer behaves like one? Does it make sense for India to have hostile neighbours when it has the world's fastest-growing major economy?

Does it make sense for India to get words of help from a superpower called the United States of America that no longer behaves like one? Does it make sense for India to have hostile neighbours when it has the world's fastest-growing major economy? Should it do something that could exacerbate tensions that affects the mood of investors? Tough challenges face Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defence after last week's horrendous car bomb attack by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists on a convoy of Central Reserve Police Force jawans at Pulwama in Kashmir, in which at least 40 men were martyred. It is fine to light candles to mourn the victims and cry out in outrage against Pakistan's help for jihadi terror groups on its soil, and fine for the Army to carry out retaliatory operations as it happened in the aftermath of the attack. But one harsh reality remains: the world has changed so much, that a painstakingly built-up diplomatic advantage that India had in cornering Pakistan after the 9/11 attacks in New York by Al Qaeda in 2001 and then the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai in 2008 has been considerably eroded by the flow of events since then. What this means is that even as India reserves the right to secure its territory from attackers and terrorists, it is a lonely game in which it has to walk diplomatic tightropes all around. Pakistan is neither the failed state it is often painted to be, nor isolated in the international community. While Indians lit candles to mourn dead jawans, Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad was playing chauffeur to Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed Bin Salman, whose team pledged $20 billion investments into Pakistan - and that is about Rs 140,000 crore! Contrast that with the fact that the annual export from Pakistan to India affected by New Delhi withdrawing the Most Favoured Nation status to Pakistan is less than $ 0.5 billion. China, which has rejected India's attempts at the United Nations to declare Jaish-e-Mohammed's chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist despite overwhelming evidence is clearly not helping India in containing terrorism. Please also recall that Pakistan's then army chief and later miltary dictator Pervez Musharraf was in Beijing when the Kargil war broke out in 1999 - under his supervision. Last month, Pakistan and China decided to widen the scope of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), including expansion of activities in the Gwadar Port in Balochistan. CPEC passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and involves investments estimated at $62 billion - and that is worth about Rs 440,000 crore! The Chinese dragon won't spew that kind of money without a quid-pro-quo. Beijing's mandarins now have a clear access to the Arabian Sea through Pakistan. All this is happening while the US is busy pulling its troops out of Afghanistan. India now has to deal with a new geopolitical reality in which Washington is less interested in policing the planet while China is helping Pakistan. Some of that Saudi money coming into Pakistan may well trickle towards jihadi groups. Islamabad is cleverly hedging its bets by keeping both the Saudis and the Chinese happy. Failed state, did someone say? Meanwhile, as India warms up to Iran, Saudi Arabia is slamming Tehran for blaming it for an attack last week that killed 27 members of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard. Tehran, after blaming the Saudis, now blames Pakistan. It is all very messy but it is vital to note the attack took place on the Iranian side of Balochistan. Officially, everybody condemns terrorism but ground realities are different. India now has the lever of trade to tackle Beijing. China is the leading maker or exporter of smartphones sold in India and its investors are hot in India's digital economy. The RSS-affiliated Swadeshi Jagran Manch has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek a ban on Chinese companies in India. India imported Chinese goods worth $68 billion in 2017 and its exports to China was about $16 billion. India's best bet could stem from the fact that the US and China are also in the middle of a trade war while Beijing badly needs help to boost its sagging economy. But India also gets investments into India from China, with billion-dollar-valuation startups like PayTm gaining significantly. It is a complicated chessboard, but trade seems to be the best lever India can use to make China see reason. Indians lighting candles for Pulwama victims may well pause a moment to think of the dragon in the neighbourhood. The government could do with some help. (This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

India faces diplomatic challenge as Saudi Arabia and China embrace Pakistan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaish-e-mohammed-commander-army-major-and-five-others-killed-in-pulwama-gun-battle-198095">Pulwama terror attack</a> has shown that time for talks is over and hesitation to take <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-encounter-fierce-gun-battle-underway-dig-south-kashmir-injured-198102">action against terrorism</a> and those who support it is akin to encouraging the menace.

Without naming Pakistan, Modi, after holding delegation-level talks with Argentine President Mauricio Macri here, said the world should unite to take concrete action against terrorism and those who support it.

After the talks, the two sides signed ten agreements in diverse areas like defence, nuclear energy, tourism, information and communication technology, and agriculture.

"I and President Macri agree with the view that terrorism is a serious danger to the world's peace and stability. The cruel attack in Pulwama shows that the time for talks has passed.

"Now, it is required that the world unites against terrorism and those who support it. Hesitation to take action against terrorism and those who support it is akin to encouraging terrorism," Modi said in a press statement in the presence of Marci.

The Argentine President is the first international leader to visit India after the Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Kashmir last week.

Condoling the death of the CRPF personnel, Macri said India and Argentina must work together to fight the menace of terrorism.

Referring to the defence cooperation agreement signed between the two nations, Modi said this will give new a dimension to bilateral ties.

Modi said India and Argentina have been cooperating at different international fora.

Argentina, Modi said, has strongly backed India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), Australia Group, and Wassenaar Arrangement. Of the four groups, India has gained entry in three export control regimes, except the NSG.

Modi also welcomed Argentina's entry into the International Solar Alliance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the Pulwama terror attack has shown that time for talks is over and hesitation to take action against terrorism and those who support it is akin to encouraging the menace.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the Pulwama terror attack has shown that time for talks is over and hesitation to take action against terrorism and those who support it is akin to encouraging the menace. Without naming Pakistan, Modi, after holding delegation-level talks with Argentine President Mauricio Macri here, said the world should unite to take concrete action against terrorism and those who support it. After the talks, the two sides signed ten agreements in diverse areas like defence, nuclear energy, tourism, information and communication technology, and agriculture. "I and President Macri agree with the view that terrorism is a serious danger to the world's peace and stability. The cruel attack in Pulwama shows that the time for talks has passed. "Now, it is required that the world unites against terrorism and those who support it. Hesitation to take action against terrorism and those who support it is akin to encouraging terrorism," Modi said in a press statement in the presence of Marci. The Argentine President is the first international leader to visit India after the Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Kashmir last week. Condoling the death of the CRPF personnel, Macri said India and Argentina must work together to fight the menace of terrorism. Referring to the defence cooperation agreement signed between the two nations, Modi said this will give new a dimension to bilateral ties. Modi said India and Argentina have been cooperating at different international fora. Argentina, Modi said, has strongly backed India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), Australia Group, and Wassenaar Arrangement. Of the four groups, India has gained entry in three export control regimes, except the NSG. Modi also welcomed Argentina's entry into the International Solar Alliance.

Pulwama attack shows time for talks over, now world has to act: PM Narendra Modi

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