Inaugurating a slew of projects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday the NDA government has taken several development initiatives in Jharkhand in the past four-and-a-half years for the uplift of all sections of society.&nbsp;

The Hazaribag visit was another occasion to continue the development work, he said. “Three medical colleges have been inaugurated in Dumka, Palamu and Hazaribag. The state had just three such colleges so far.&nbsp;

Now with the addition of three more, students won’t have to travel far to study medicine. Also, people can avail medical facilities at ease,” he said.&nbsp;

Talking about the gift milk scheme, which he inaugurated here prior to his speech, Modi said the initiative will improve the nutritional standards of children in government schools. The prime minister also congratulated the farmers on receiving financial assistance to buy smartphones.&nbsp;

“The farmers can now get regular updates on climate, learn about modern farming techniques and find out about government initiatives,” he said.&nbsp;

Modi also said that health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY of the central government has benefitted more than 57,000 people in the state.&nbsp;

“Jharkhand has witnessed the launch of Ayushman Bharat health scheme last year. Lakhs of families across the country have benefitted from the scheme, including 57,000 people in Jharkhand,” he stated.

Modi asserted that the central government has been taking initiatives to supply clean drinking water to all homes in Jharkhand.&nbsp;

“Health is directly related to cleanliness and sanitation. In the last four-and-a-half years, the Centre has spent thousands of crores (of rupees) to launch 350 projects for supplying clean drinking water. Today, I have laid the foundation of 11 such projects to ensure that people receive clean water,” he maintained.&nbsp;

The prime minister, who inaugurated a women’s engineering college in Ramgarh, said the institute was the first-of-its-kind in Jharkhand. He also launched a centre of tribal studies at Acharya Vinoba Bhave University here.&nbsp;

Jharkhand has two dozen Eklavya schools, a modern residential school for tribal students, and work was on to set up 70 more, he said.&nbsp;

Modi also paid tribute to Vijay Soreng, the CRPF personnel from the state who was killed along with 39 others in the Pulwama terrorist attack last week, and said that the Centre would look after the families of the slain jawans. Jharkhand has seen many revolutions over the years and grown from strength to strength, he added.

Inaugurating a slew of projects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday the NDA government has taken several development initiatives in Jharkhand in the past four-and-a-half years for the uplift of all sections of society.

Inaugurating a slew of projects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday the NDA government has taken several development initiatives in Jharkhand in the past four-and-a-half years for the uplift of all sections of society. The Hazaribag visit was another occasion to continue the development work, he said. “Three medical colleges have been inaugurated in Dumka, Palamu and Hazaribag. The state had just three such colleges so far. Now with the addition of three more, students won’t have to travel far to study medicine. Also, people can avail medical facilities at ease,” he said. Talking about the gift milk scheme, which he inaugurated here prior to his speech, Modi said the initiative will improve the nutritional standards of children in government schools. The prime minister also congratulated the farmers on receiving financial assistance to buy smartphones. “The farmers can now get regular updates on climate, learn about modern farming techniques and find out about government initiatives,” he said. Modi also said that health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY of the central government has benefitted more than 57,000 people in the state. “Jharkhand has witnessed the launch of Ayushman Bharat health scheme last year. Lakhs of families across the country have benefitted from the scheme, including 57,000 people in Jharkhand,” he stated. Modi asserted that the central government has been taking initiatives to supply clean drinking water to all homes in Jharkhand. “Health is directly related to cleanliness and sanitation. In the last four-and-a-half years, the Centre has spent thousands of crores (of rupees) to launch 350 projects for supplying clean drinking water. Today, I have laid the foundation of 11 such projects to ensure that people receive clean water,” he maintained. The prime minister, who inaugurated a women’s engineering college in Ramgarh, said the institute was the first-of-its-kind in Jharkhand. He also launched a centre of tribal studies at Acharya Vinoba Bhave University here. Jharkhand has two dozen Eklavya schools, a modern residential school for tribal students, and work was on to set up 70 more, he said. Modi also paid tribute to Vijay Soreng, the CRPF personnel from the state who was killed along with 39 others in the Pulwama terrorist attack last week, and said that the Centre would look after the families of the slain jawans. Jharkhand has seen many revolutions over the years and grown from strength to strength, he added.

Centre working to uplift all sections of people in Jharkhand, says PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday in Barauni, Bihar that the anger in the hears of the Indian people <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-government-withdraws-security-cover-of-5-separatist-leaders-including-mirwaiz-umar-farooq-197880">after the Pulwama attack</a> is in his heart too.&nbsp;

Modi was in Barauni to inaugurate the Patna metro rail project. He was accompanied by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;

"I can feel how much anger there is in your hearts," Modi said Sunday. "The anger in your heart is in mine too," he added.&nbsp;

Over 40 jawans died in the Pulwama attack on Thursday after a local youth, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Adil Ahmad Dar</a>, rammed a car filled with explosives into a bus carrying CRPF personnel. The bus was part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar.&nbsp;

The attack was later claimed by the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed which is headed by Masood Azhar who is based out of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Azhar is one of the three terrorists released by India after the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 in Kathmandu.&nbsp;

"I pay my tributes to martyr Constable Sanjay Kumar Sinha from Patna and Bhagalpur's martyr Ratan Kumar Thakur who sacrificed their lives for the country. I express my sympathies with their families," Modi said on Sunday.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Barauni, Bihar: I pay my tributes to martyr Constable Sanjay Kumar Sinha from Patna and Bhagalpur's martyr Ratan Kumar Thakur who sacrificed their lives for the country. I express my sympathies with their families. <a href="https://t.co/Wa8Fruh9fM">pic.twitter.com/Wa8Fruh9fM</a>
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The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-outpouring-of-grief-anger-as-india-says-final-goodbye-to-slain-crpf-jawans-197851">Pulwama attack</a> has baffled Indian intelligence agencies considering the losses Jaish has suffered recently in Kashmir.&nbsp;

Since the attack, India has raised customs duties on Pakistani imports by 200 per cent, making trade with its neighbour virtually impossible.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced that he has given Indian security forces a free hand to respond to the Pulwama attack at a time and place of their choosing. Home Minister Rajnath Singh has promised India will give a "muh-tod" (befitting) reply to the attack.&nbsp;

Modi is also expected to inaugurate a slew of development projects today in Jharkhand.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday in Barauni, Bihar that the anger in the hears of the Indian people after the Pulwama attack is in his heart too. Modi was in Barauni to inaugurate the Patna metro rail project.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday in Barauni, Bihar that the anger in the hears of the Indian people after the Pulwama attack is in his heart too. Modi was in Barauni to inaugurate the Patna metro rail project. He was accompanied by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. "I can feel how much anger there is in your hearts," Modi said Sunday. "The anger in your heart is in mine too," he added. Over 40 jawans died in the Pulwama attack on Thursday after a local youth, Adil Ahmad Dar, rammed a car filled with explosives into a bus carrying CRPF personnel. The bus was part of a convoy of 78 vehicles transporting 2,500 CRPF personnel from Jammu to Srinagar. The attack was later claimed by the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed which is headed by Masood Azhar who is based out of Pakistan. Azhar is one of the three terrorists released by India after the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 in Kathmandu. "I pay my tributes to martyr Constable Sanjay Kumar Sinha from Patna and Bhagalpur's martyr Ratan Kumar Thakur who sacrificed their lives for the country. I express my sympathies with their families," Modi said on Sunday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Barauni, Bihar: I pay my tributes to martyr Constable Sanjay Kumar Sinha from Patna and Bhagalpur's martyr Ratan Kumar Thakur who sacrificed their lives for the country. I express my sympathies with their families. pic.twitter.com/Wa8Fruh9fM — ANI (@ANI) February 17, 2019 × The Pulwama attack has baffled Indian intelligence agencies considering the losses Jaish has suffered recently in Kashmir. Since the attack, India has raised customs duties on Pakistani imports by 200 per cent, making trade with its neighbour virtually impossible. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced that he has given Indian security forces a free hand to respond to the Pulwama attack at a time and place of their choosing. Home Minister Rajnath Singh has promised India will give a "muh-tod" (befitting) reply to the attack. Modi is also expected to inaugurate a slew of development projects today in Jharkhand.

Anger in your hearts after Pulwama attack is in mine too: PM Narendra Modi in Bihar

Minutes after India withdrew 'Most Favoured Nation' status accorded to Pakistan, Congress President Rahul Gandhi came out in support of the government and termed the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-summons-pakistan-high-commission-lodges-strong-protest-197574">Pulwama terror attack</a> on the CRPF convoy as ''terrible tragedy'' and said ''no force can divide or break India''.&nbsp;

&nbsp;''This type of violence done against our soldiers is absolutely disgusting. We are all standing together with our jawans. No force can divide or break this country,'' he said.&nbsp;

Congress president also full support for the government and the security forces in the matter.&nbsp;

Gandhi said ''This is a time of mourning, sadness and respect. We are fully supporting the government of India and our security forces. We are not going to get into any other conversation apart from this''.

The former prime minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh also expressed his condolences.&nbsp;

''Today is the day of mourning. Our country has lost close to 40 armed forces jawans and our foremost duty is to convey to their families that we are with them. We shall never compromise with the terrorist forces,'' Singh said.

A suicide bomber from the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group had rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF bus in Pulwama district&nbsp;on Thursday evening killing around 40 personnel and leaving many critically wounded.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly&nbsp;condemned&nbsp;the incident today and held a meeting with top members of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).

PM Modi said all Indians are angry right now after the terror attack at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday evening.

In the CCS meeting, India decided to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-withdraws-most-favoured-nation-status-accorded-to-pakistan-after-pulwama-attack-197539">withdraw Most Favoured Nation(MFN)</a>&nbsp;status to Pakistan.

Minutes after India withdrew 'Most Favoured Nation' status accorded to Pakistan, Congress President Rahul Gandhi came out in support of the government and termed the Pulwama terror attack on the CRPF convoy as ''terrible tragedy'' and said ''no force can divide or break India''.

Minutes after India withdrew 'Most Favoured Nation' status accorded to Pakistan, Congress President Rahul Gandhi came out in support of the government and termed the Pulwama terror attack on the CRPF convoy as ''terrible tragedy'' and said ''no force can divide or break India''. ''This type of violence done against our soldiers is absolutely disgusting. We are all standing together with our jawans. No force can divide or break this country,'' he said. Congress president also full support for the government and the security forces in the matter. Gandhi said ''This is a time of mourning, sadness and respect. We are fully supporting the government of India and our security forces. We are not going to get into any other conversation apart from this''. The former prime minister and Congress leader Manmohan Singh also expressed his condolences. ''Today is the day of mourning. Our country has lost close to 40 armed forces jawans and our foremost duty is to convey to their families that we are with them. We shall never compromise with the terrorist forces,'' Singh said. A suicide bomber from the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group had rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF bus in Pulwama district on Thursday evening killing around 40 personnel and leaving many critically wounded. Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the incident today and held a meeting with top members of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). PM Modi said all Indians are angry right now after the terror attack at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday evening. In the CCS meeting, India decided to withdraw Most Favoured Nation(MFN) status to Pakistan.

We stand by govt and our jawans, no force can divide India: Rahul on Pulwama attack

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday announced that customs duty on all goods imported from Pakistan will be hiked to 200 per cent with immediate effect.

The move comes a day after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mfn-status-to-pakistan-what-it-means-how-it-impacts-trade-197569">India scrapped MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan</a> in the wake of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi has also decided to give a dossier to FATF, an international terror financing watchdog, to expose the neighbouring country's links with terrorism and seeking its blacklisting, news agency PTI reported.

According to reports, security agencies are preparing the dossier with the evidence gathered so far related to the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad and the help being provided to the outfit by the country.

This will be a dossier on Pakistani agencies' links with the JeM and how the terror group is being aided by them, a security official said. The details of the terror attacks carried out by the JeM in the past will be mentioned in the document, PTI reported.

The Paris-headquartered Financial Action Task Force (FATF) will also be told through the dossier how the Pakistani agencies are providing funds to the JeM, an official told PTI.

In the next meeting of the FATF, India will also press for the blacklisting of Pakistan so that that action can be taken against the country, another official said. The FATF plenary and working group meetings will be held in Paris next week.

Earlier in the day, an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-at-all-party-meeting-strongly-condemn-dastardly-terror-act-of-14th-february-197746">all-party meeting called by Centre</a> to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''.&nbsp;

The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&amp;K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost".

The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country.

Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist</a> rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar.

The Central government has also stepped up <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-india-continues-its-diplomatic-campaign-for-second-day-briefs-gulf-asean-and-african-envoys-197780">diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan</a> to take action against those who have been indulging in exporting terror to India.

(With inputs from PTI)

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday announced that customs duty on all goods imported from Pakistan will be hiked to 200 per cent with immediate effect. The move comes a day after India scrapped MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan in the wake of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday announced that customs duty on all goods imported from Pakistan will be hiked to 200 per cent with immediate effect. The move comes a day after India scrapped MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan in the wake of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. New Delhi has also decided to give a dossier to FATF, an international terror financing watchdog, to expose the neighbouring country's links with terrorism and seeking its blacklisting, news agency PTI reported. According to reports, security agencies are preparing the dossier with the evidence gathered so far related to the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad and the help being provided to the outfit by the country. This will be a dossier on Pakistani agencies' links with the JeM and how the terror group is being aided by them, a security official said. The details of the terror attacks carried out by the JeM in the past will be mentioned in the document, PTI reported. The Paris-headquartered Financial Action Task Force (FATF) will also be told through the dossier how the Pakistani agencies are providing funds to the JeM, an official told PTI. In the next meeting of the FATF, India will also press for the blacklisting of Pakistan so that that action can be taken against the country, another official said. The FATF plenary and working group meetings will be held in Paris next week. Earlier in the day, an all-party meeting called by Centre to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir passed a resolution strongly condemning the ''dastardly terror act''. The meeting chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh released the resolution which read, "We strongly condemn the dastardly terror act of 14th February at Pulwama in J&K in which lives of 40 brave jawans of CRPF were lost". The resolution did not name Pakistan but asserted that India has been facing the menace of the cross-border terrorism which of late, it added, is being actively encouraged by forces from the neighbouring country. Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist rammed a vehicle carrying over massive explosives into their bus on Srinagar-Jammu national highway on Thursday at around 3.15 pm at Ladhu Modi Lethpora. The convoy consisted of 78 buses in which around 2,500 CRPF personnel were travelling from Jammu to Srinagar. The Central government has also stepped up diplomatic efforts to mount pressure on the Government of Pakistan to take action against those who have been indulging in exporting terror to India. (With inputs from PTI)

Pulwama attack: After scrapping MNF status, Government hikes customs duty on all Pak imports to 200%

Noting that the entire country is angry over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-commanders-responsible-for-pulwama-terror-attack-identified-traced-in-tral-sources-197758">Pulwama terror attack</a>, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said "all tears will be avenged"&nbsp;as India’s armed forces "do not forgive any culprit".

"Today, I have come here at a time when the entire nation is angry over the terrorist attack on our jawans in Pulwama. On one side the country is angry, on the other, all eyes are numb,"&nbsp;he said while addressing a rally here.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/customs-duty-on-all-goods-imported-from-pakistan-hiked-to-200-arun-jaitley-197808">Also read: After scrapping MNF status, Government hikes customs duty on all Pak imports to 200%</a>

"This is the time for restraint and mourning. But I want to assure all the families of slain soldiers that all their tears will be avenged,"&nbsp;the Prime Minister asserted.

Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed on Thursday when their convoy was targeted by a suicide bomber of Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Pulwama district on Srinagar-Jammu national highway.

He noted that Maharashtra also lost a few of its children in the attack.

“India is a country of new customs and new policies. The world is experiencing this. Our security forces do not forgive any culprit. This has been the policy of India that we do not tease anybody. But I want to make it clear that we don't forgive anyone also if someone tries to tease us,” Modi said.

He lauded the security forces, saying they work for the nation selflessly.

Earlier today, the all-party meeting was called by the Central Government to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack. The meeting was chaired by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.&nbsp;

Several political parties including TMC, BJP and the Congress even protested against the Pulwama attack across various places. (ANI)

Noting that the entire country is angry over the Pulwama terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said "all tears will be avenged" as India’s armed forces "do not forgive any culprit".

Noting that the entire country is angry over the Pulwama terror attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said "all tears will be avenged" as India’s armed forces "do not forgive any culprit". "Today, I have come here at a time when the entire nation is angry over the terrorist attack on our jawans in Pulwama. On one side the country is angry, on the other, all eyes are numb," he said while addressing a rally here. Also read: After scrapping MNF status, Government hikes customs duty on all Pak imports to 200% "This is the time for restraint and mourning. But I want to assure all the families of slain soldiers that all their tears will be avenged," the Prime Minister asserted. Over 40 CRPF personnel were killed on Thursday when their convoy was targeted by a suicide bomber of Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in Pulwama district on Srinagar-Jammu national highway. He noted that Maharashtra also lost a few of its children in the attack. “India is a country of new customs and new policies. The world is experiencing this. Our security forces do not forgive any culprit. This has been the policy of India that we do not tease anybody. But I want to make it clear that we don't forgive anyone also if someone tries to tease us,” Modi said. He lauded the security forces, saying they work for the nation selflessly. Earlier today, the all-party meeting was called by the Central Government to deliberate upon the situations arising out of Pulwama terror attack. The meeting was chaired by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. Several political parties including TMC, BJP and the Congress even protested against the Pulwama attack across various places. (ANI)

All tears will be avenged, our armed forces do not forgive any culprit: PM Narendra Modi on Pulwama attack

Argentina's President Mauricio Macri will be in India from Sunday on a 3-day visit that will end on Tuesday. The Argentine President will be accompanied by Argentina's First Lady Juliana Awada, Chamber of Deputies Speaker, Emilio Monzo and Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie, among other officials.&nbsp;

The visit comes at a time when both the countries are celebrating the 70th year of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Argentina.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "This visit will provide an opportunity to both sides to review progress in bilateral ties and to explore new avenues of cooperation".

Ahead of the visit, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-will-do-pretty-well-in-hosting-g20-summit-2022-argentine-envoy-to-wion-197766">Argentina's envoy to India Daniel Chuburu spoke to WION</a> and said, "We are good friends with India and have worked politically for many many years in a lot of different places, we firmly believe, the potential our relations can achieve is not being done."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Argentina's President in 2018 in Buenos Aires on the sidelines of G20 summit from November 30 to December 1. India will be hosting G20 summit in 2022. Argentina, which became the first Latin American country to host G20 last year, assured full support to New Delhi.

"We are at the disposal of India to share any kind of and all the experience we have. It's the job you do in the whole year, the summit is just last expression. India will do it pretty well, you have a lot of experience. There will be no problem", Chuburu said.

The visit comes amid the Venezuelan crisis which has been the focus in South America. Argentina has recognised the opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the Venezuelan president. New Delhi has taken a cautious stand on the Venezuelan crisis since Caracas is a crucial oil exporter to India.&nbsp;

There may be some special declaration on Pulwama attacks by the Argentine President during his India visit.

On Sunday, he will visit Agra while Monday will be the main day of engagement when he will meet Prime Minister Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind. He will end his visit in Mumbai on February 19. &nbsp;

Bilateral trade between both the countries at present is around $3 billion with India exporting two-wheelers, iron and steel, agrochemicals, yarn, organic chemicals, bulk drugs and drug intermediates and motor vehicles to the South American country. Argentina's exports to India has been mainly vegetable oils, finished leather, cereals, residual chemicals and allied products and pulses.

Several Indian companies have invested in IT, agro-chemical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors in Argentina; total Indian investments stand at $1 billion.

Argentina's President Mauricio Macri will be in India from Sunday on a 3-day visit that will end on Tuesday. The Argentine President will be accompanied by Argentina's First Lady Juliana Awada, Chamber of Deputies Speaker, Emilio Monzo and Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie, among other officials.

Argentina's President Mauricio Macri will be in India from Sunday on a 3-day visit that will end on Tuesday. The Argentine President will be accompanied by Argentina's First Lady Juliana Awada, Chamber of Deputies Speaker, Emilio Monzo and Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie, among other officials. The visit comes at a time when both the countries are celebrating the 70th year of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Argentina. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "This visit will provide an opportunity to both sides to review progress in bilateral ties and to explore new avenues of cooperation". Ahead of the visit, Argentina's envoy to India Daniel Chuburu spoke to WION and said, "We are good friends with India and have worked politically for many many years in a lot of different places, we firmly believe, the potential our relations can achieve is not being done." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Argentina's President in 2018 in Buenos Aires on the sidelines of G20 summit from November 30 to December 1. India will be hosting G20 summit in 2022. Argentina, which became the first Latin American country to host G20 last year, assured full support to New Delhi. "We are at the disposal of India to share any kind of and all the experience we have. It's the job you do in the whole year, the summit is just last expression. India will do it pretty well, you have a lot of experience. There will be no problem", Chuburu said. The visit comes amid the Venezuelan crisis which has been the focus in South America. Argentina has recognised the opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the Venezuelan president. New Delhi has taken a cautious stand on the Venezuelan crisis since Caracas is a crucial oil exporter to India. There may be some special declaration on Pulwama attacks by the Argentine President during his India visit. On Sunday, he will visit Agra while Monday will be the main day of engagement when he will meet Prime Minister Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind. He will end his visit in Mumbai on February 19. Bilateral trade between both the countries at present is around $3 billion with India exporting two-wheelers, iron and steel, agrochemicals, yarn, organic chemicals, bulk drugs and drug intermediates and motor vehicles to the South American country. Argentina's exports to India has been mainly vegetable oils, finished leather, cereals, residual chemicals and allied products and pulses. Several Indian companies have invested in IT, agro-chemical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors in Argentina; total Indian investments stand at $1 billion.

Argentine President Macri to visit India from February 17 to 19

Nation will not forget: PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi pay homage to Pulwama martyrs at Delhi's Palam

India gets its fastest train Vande Bharat Express

We stand united with India: World leaders extend solidarity over Pulwama terror attack

New Delhi on Friday summoned Pakistan's High commissioner Sohail Mehmood and lodged a strong protest against the Pulwama attacked that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel on Thursday. Pakistan based <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-calls-on-pakistan-to-immediately-end-support-to-all-terrorist-groups-white-house-197523">terrorist group</a> <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/jem-has-been-included-in-security-council-counter-terrorism-list-we-have-dealt-with-masood-azhar-issue-professionally-china-197566">Jaish-e-Mohammad</a> (JEM) had claimed responsibility for the attack.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale summoned Pakistan High Commissioner today afternoon and issued a "very strong demarche" in connection to the Pulwama terror attack.

Sources tell WION that India conveyed that Pakistan must take "immediate and verifiable action" against the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">JEM</a>. New Delhi asked Islamabad that "it must immediately stop any groups or individuals associated with terrorism operating from its territories".&nbsp;

India also rejected the statement made by the Pak foreign ministry on Thursday. Pakistan had said it, "strongly rejects any insinuation by elements in the Indian government and media circles that seek to link the attack to the State of Pakistan without investigations".

Islamabad had even made flip-flops while issuing the release by first issuing it, later withdrawing it to issue another one with minor changes.

This is the second time this year when the Pak envoy has been summoned. He was summoned in January after Pakistan Foreign Minister SM Qureshi had made a phone call to pro-Pakistan Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

In all, as many as 7 times a Pakistan High Commissioner has been summoned under the Modi-government since 2014.

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Sources: Foreign Secretary summoned the Pakistan High Commissioner to the Ministry of External Affairs today and issued a very strong demarche in connection with the terrorist attack in Pulwama <a href="https://t.co/aQnu5zIHNL">https://t.co/aQnu5zIHNL</a>
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A suicide bomber from the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group had rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF bus in Pulwama district&nbsp;on Thursday evening killing around 40 personnel and leaving many critically wounded.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly&nbsp;condemned&nbsp;the incident today and held a meeting with top members of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).

PM Modi said all Indians are angry right now after the terror attack at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday evening.

"I pay tribute to soldiers who lost their lives at Pulwama. Our security forces have been given full freedom. We have full faith in their bravery," PM Modi said.

"I understand sentiments of those criticising us but I want to urge them, it is an emotional time, stay away from political one-upmanship,"&nbsp;the prime minister insisted.

In the CCS meeting, India decided to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-mfn-status-to-pakistan-what-it-means-how-it-impacts-trade-197569">withdraw Most Favoured Nation(MFN)</a>&nbsp;status to Pakistan.

New Delhi on Friday summoned Pakistan's High commissioner Sohail Mehmood and lodged a strong protest against the Pulwama attacked that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel on Thursday.

New Delhi on Friday summoned Pakistan's High commissioner Sohail Mehmood and lodged a strong protest against the Pulwama attacked that killed more than 40 CRPF personnel on Thursday. Pakistan based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammad (JEM) had claimed responsibility for the attack. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale summoned Pakistan High Commissioner today afternoon and issued a "very strong demarche" in connection to the Pulwama terror attack. Sources tell WION that India conveyed that Pakistan must take "immediate and verifiable action" against the JEM. New Delhi asked Islamabad that "it must immediately stop any groups or individuals associated with terrorism operating from its territories". India also rejected the statement made by the Pak foreign ministry on Thursday. Pakistan had said it, "strongly rejects any insinuation by elements in the Indian government and media circles that seek to link the attack to the State of Pakistan without investigations". Islamabad had even made flip-flops while issuing the release by first issuing it, later withdrawing it to issue another one with minor changes. This is the second time this year when the Pak envoy has been summoned. He was summoned in January after Pakistan Foreign Minister SM Qureshi had made a phone call to pro-Pakistan Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. In all, as many as 7 times a Pakistan High Commissioner has been summoned under the Modi-government since 2014. Sources: Foreign Secretary summoned the Pakistan High Commissioner to the Ministry of External Affairs today and issued a very strong demarche in connection with the terrorist attack in Pulwama https://t.co/aQnu5zIHNL — ANI (@ANI) February 15, 2019 × A suicide bomber from the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group had rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a CRPF bus in Pulwama district on Thursday evening killing around 40 personnel and leaving many critically wounded. Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly condemned the incident today and held a meeting with top members of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). PM Modi said all Indians are angry right now after the terror attack at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday evening. "I pay tribute to soldiers who lost their lives at Pulwama. Our security forces have been given full freedom. We have full faith in their bravery," PM Modi said. "I understand sentiments of those criticising us but I want to urge them, it is an emotional time, stay away from political one-upmanship," the prime minister insisted. In the CCS meeting, India decided to withdraw Most Favoured Nation(MFN) status to Pakistan.

Pulwama terror attack: India summons Pakistan High Commissioner, lodges strong protest

When people ask me if the NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done anything wrong in the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France's Dassault, my typical answer is: "I don't think so, but...."

You may ask why the "but' -- and thereby hangs the tale of how to understand the purchase of military jets which has turned controversial with Congress president Rahul Gandhi accusing the BJP of corruption in the deal, though there is no evidence of payoffs at all. Compared to what happened in the Bofors arms purchase scandal in the late 1980s, the Rafale deal allegations look like a picnic. 
 
In the well-documented Bofors case, the very same Narasimhan Ram, the journalist at The Hindu who is now writing articles critical of the NDA government because it overruled dissent by defence ministry officials, was speaking of Swiss bank accounts and secret payoffs that pointed at the very least to a cover-up by the then Congress government under Rahul's father, the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

But then, the problem is that the Rafale deal is a colourful one with circumstantial evidence pointing to unusual procedures that can be questioned on grounds of transparency. This is where we need a "But." The fact is that confidentiality is required in defence deals. The fact is that no less than the chief justice of the Supreme Court of India said he found nothing amiss in the confidential details of pricing involving the Rafale jets. The fact is also that the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (the institution that in the Bofors case criticised the Rajiv Gandhi government) has also said the Rafale deal value was cheaper than that negotiated by the UPA government led by the Congress.

But there are 'buts' still hanging in the air of New Delhi because the CAG is yet to pronounce its views on the controversial offset deal in which Dassault was left to choose its partner, which turned out to be the Anil Ambani-led Reliance ADAG group. The key point is that the government says it did not intervene in Dassault's choice of partner in which public sector HAL was pushed to the sidelines. The public sector is a holy cow in India and I do not rule out questions continuing to pour out on the issue. It is perfectly normal and acceptable for political bosses to overrule bureaucratic recommendations, as it has happened in the Rafale case, but in a politically charged atmosphere, questions do not go away.

The big questions: Is not intervening in the choice of offset partners by a government a good practice or not when the money in question goes out of the Indian taxpayer's pocket? In politics, sometimes, "not doing" is perceived as a form of doing (an error of omission) and this is what leaves Congress with one more round of ammunition that leads to a "but" being left open in the game.

Also, there is the nagging question of whether the rules of confidentiality applied by the NDA government will be employed by a future government formed by some other party or coalition to cloak things. In the Bofors case, there was a lot of attempted secrecy. The Rafale case sets a precedent that may worry long-term thinkers. How does one establish a technical difference between desirable confidentiality and undesirable secrecy? That is the source of another "But" on my part.

There is also the issue of whether there has been any "influence peddling" and "undue advantage" which are not exactly bribery in the conventional sense of the term but falls within the international lexicon of corruption.

The Anti Bribery Guidance website says 'influence peddling' occurs "when an undue payment or benefit in kind is promised or given to a person who has a real or apparent influence on the decision-making of a public official with the intent that the person persuades the decision maker to act in a desired manner. The emphasis here is on 'undue' to distinguish it from legitimate influence seeking such as lobbying or advocacy."

In the coming days, some of the issues related to the Rafale deal will be examined from this point of view. You can say the deal is nowhere near the murkiness of Bofors, but then, this is not same India. New era decisions will face newer questions. 
 
(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="https://zeenews.india.com/blogs/narendra-modi-emerges-from-rafale-in-better-shape-than-rajiv-gandhi-from-bofors-2180524.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;

When people ask me if the NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done anything wrong in the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France's Dassault, my typical answer is: "I don't think so, but.

When people ask me if the NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has done anything wrong in the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France's Dassault, my typical answer is: "I don't think so, but...." You may ask why the "but' -- and thereby hangs the tale of how to understand the purchase of military jets which has turned controversial with Congress president Rahul Gandhi accusing the BJP of corruption in the deal, though there is no evidence of payoffs at all. Compared to what happened in the Bofors arms purchase scandal in the late 1980s, the Rafale deal allegations look like a picnic. In the well-documented Bofors case, the very same Narasimhan Ram, the journalist at The Hindu who is now writing articles critical of the NDA government because it overruled dissent by defence ministry officials, was speaking of Swiss bank accounts and secret payoffs that pointed at the very least to a cover-up by the then Congress government under Rahul's father, the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. But then, the problem is that the Rafale deal is a colourful one with circumstantial evidence pointing to unusual procedures that can be questioned on grounds of transparency. This is where we need a "But." The fact is that confidentiality is required in defence deals. The fact is that no less than the chief justice of the Supreme Court of India said he found nothing amiss in the confidential details of pricing involving the Rafale jets. The fact is also that the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (the institution that in the Bofors case criticised the Rajiv Gandhi government) has also said the Rafale deal value was cheaper than that negotiated by the UPA government led by the Congress. But there are 'buts' still hanging in the air of New Delhi because the CAG is yet to pronounce its views on the controversial offset deal in which Dassault was left to choose its partner, which turned out to be the Anil Ambani-led Reliance ADAG group. The key point is that the government says it did not intervene in Dassault's choice of partner in which public sector HAL was pushed to the sidelines. The public sector is a holy cow in India and I do not rule out questions continuing to pour out on the issue. It is perfectly normal and acceptable for political bosses to overrule bureaucratic recommendations, as it has happened in the Rafale case, but in a politically charged atmosphere, questions do not go away. The big questions: Is not intervening in the choice of offset partners by a government a good practice or not when the money in question goes out of the Indian taxpayer's pocket? In politics, sometimes, "not doing" is perceived as a form of doing (an error of omission) and this is what leaves Congress with one more round of ammunition that leads to a "but" being left open in the game. Also, there is the nagging question of whether the rules of confidentiality applied by the NDA government will be employed by a future government formed by some other party or coalition to cloak things. In the Bofors case, there was a lot of attempted secrecy. The Rafale case sets a precedent that may worry long-term thinkers. How does one establish a technical difference between desirable confidentiality and undesirable secrecy? That is the source of another "But" on my part. There is also the issue of whether there has been any "influence peddling" and "undue advantage" which are not exactly bribery in the conventional sense of the term but falls within the international lexicon of corruption. The Anti Bribery Guidance website says 'influence peddling' occurs "when an undue payment or benefit in kind is promised or given to a person who has a real or apparent influence on the decision-making of a public official with the intent that the person persuades the decision maker to act in a desired manner. The emphasis here is on 'undue' to distinguish it from legitimate influence seeking such as lobbying or advocacy." In the coming days, some of the issues related to the Rafale deal will be examined from this point of view. You can say the deal is nowhere near the murkiness of Bofors, but then, this is not same India. New era decisions will face newer questions. (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.)

Narendra Modi emerges from Rafale in better shape than Rajiv Gandhi from Bofors

The worst terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed over 40 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/over-200-kg-of-explosives-was-used-in-pulwamas-terror-attack-197469">Central Reserve Police Force</a> (CRPF) men on Thursday saw immediate global condemnation. The responsibility for the attack in Pulwama district was claimed by Pakistan-based terror group <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/crpf-convoy-attacked-in-jammu-kashmirs-pulwama-death-toll-climbs-to-40-197468">Jaish-e-Mohammad</a>.&nbsp;

US ambassador to India Kenneth Juster tweeted, "US Mission in India strongly condemns today’s terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The United States stands alongside India in confronting terror and defeating it."

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The U.S. Mission in India strongly condemns today’s terrorist attack in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The United States stands alongside India in confronting terror and defeating it. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KashmirTerrorAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KashmirTerrorAttack</a>
— Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/1096049604431351814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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French Ambassador Alexandre Ziegler said, "Our thoughts go out to the families of the fallen soldiers." and "France has always been and always will be by India’s side in the fight against terrorism in all its forms."

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France most firmly condemns the heinous attack perpetrated in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. Our thoughts go out to the families of the fallen soldiers. 
 
France has always been and always will be by India’s side in the fight against terrorism in all its forms.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwama</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KashmirTerrorAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KashmirTerrorAttack</a>
— Alexandre Ziegler (@FranceinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/FranceinIndia/status/1096059616914477058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In an official statement, the Russian Embassy said, it "condemns in the strongest terms the horrific terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pulwama district, &nbsp;which claimed precious lives of more than 40 CRPF personnel and left numerous people injured."

Calling for a strong response to terror, Russian embassy also said on Twitter, "We denounce terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and reiterate the need to combat these inhuman acts with a decisive and collective response without any double standards."

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RusEmbIndia</a> condemns in the strongest terms the horrific terrorist attack in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kashmir</a>’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwama</a> district, which claimed precious lives of more than 40 CRPF personnel and left numerous people injured.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pulwamaterrorattack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pulwamaterrorattack</a><a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mfa_russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndEmbMoscow?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndEmbMoscow</a> <a href="https://t.co/di2JTjQZXx">pic.twitter.com/di2JTjQZXx</a>
— Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1096079381724839936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The response in the neighbourhood was also quick.&nbsp;

Maldives President &nbsp;Ibrahim Mohamed Solih tweeted, "I strongly condemn the deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir today killing at least 40 people. We send our thoughts and prayers to those affected. The Maldives will continue to work with India and the international community to combat terrorism in our region and the world at large."

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I strongly condemn the deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir today killing at least 40 people. We send our thoughts and prayers to those affected. The Maldives will continue to work with India and the international community to combat terrorism in our region and the world at large.
— Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih/status/1096080320560918529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid wrote a message to external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj condemning the terrorist attack and conveying sympathy to the Government and people of the Republic of India.&nbsp;

In a message on Twitter, Shahid said, "The Maldives is fully committed to the fight against terrorism and will continue to work closely with India, and the international community in eliminating this global menace."

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Strongly condemn the suicide terrorist attack on the convoy carrying Indian security forces in Jammu and Kashmir today. I extend my prayers and condolences to the bereaved families of the dead and injured.<a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a>
— Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1096070487095037952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was one of the first foreign leaders to speak to PM Narendra Modi during which he expresses his condolences on the terror attack.&nbsp;

In a statement, Nepal government said, "In line with its principled position, Nepal unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believes that such heinous acts of terrorism cannot be justified on any ground."

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in a tweet also expressed his condolences. He said, "I strongly condemn the brutal terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pulwama district — the worst ever terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir since 1989. I express my condolences to @narendramodi and the families of police officers who lost their lives."

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I strongly condemn the brutal terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pulwama district — the worst ever terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir since 1989. I express my condolences to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and the families of police officers who lost their lives.
— Ranil Wickremesinghe (@RW_UNP) <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP/status/1096066531857858561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa tweeted, "The world should continue to combat terrorism."&nbsp;

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I condemn the terror attack in Jammu &amp; Kashmir that attacked a convoy, killing 44 soldiers. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. The world should continue to combat terrorism.
— Mahinda Rajapaksa (@PresRajapaksa) <a href="https://twitter.com/PresRajapaksa/status/1096076315956981761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Bhutanese foreign minister said, " Shocked and saddened to hear of the dastardly terrorist attack in Kashmir" adding, "Hope the perpetrators will be brought to justice."

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Shocked and saddened to hear of the dastardly terrorist attack in Kashmir, which has resulted in the loss of 30 precious human lives. We strongly condemn this heinous attack and express our solidarity with the families of the victims, and the people and Government of India.
— ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FMBhutan/status/1096067678211469312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist&nbsp;rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus ferrying CRPF jawans&nbsp;on Thursday in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sacrifices-of-our-brave-security-personnel-shall-not-go-in-vain-modi-says-after-pulwama-attack-197456"> Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama</a> killing 40 people.

The attack also left dozens injured — body parts could be seen strewn around the site of the attack — and a steadily-climbing death toll.&nbsp;

Police said they had identified the terrorist who had carried out the attack as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/adil-ahmad-dar-the-man-who-carried-out-the-pulwama-attack-197476">Adil Ahmad Dar</a> from Kakapora in Pulwama, and that he joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2018.&nbsp;

A news agency ANI&nbsp;reported that National Security Adviser Ajit Doval was overseeing the situation in Kashmir and that he was being briefed by senior CRPF officials.&nbsp;

The worst terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men on Thursday saw immediate global condemnation. The responsibility for the attack in Pulwama district was claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad.

The worst terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men on Thursday saw immediate global condemnation. The responsibility for the attack in Pulwama district was claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad. US ambassador to India Kenneth Juster tweeted, "US Mission in India strongly condemns today’s terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The United States stands alongside India in confronting terror and defeating it." The U.S. Mission in India strongly condemns today’s terrorist attack in Jammu & Kashmir. We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. The United States stands alongside India in confronting terror and defeating it. #KashmirTerrorAttack — Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) February 14, 2019 × French Ambassador Alexandre Ziegler said, "Our thoughts go out to the families of the fallen soldiers." and "France has always been and always will be by India’s side in the fight against terrorism in all its forms." France most firmly condemns the heinous attack perpetrated in Jammu & Kashmir. Our thoughts go out to the families of the fallen soldiers. France has always been and always will be by India’s side in the fight against terrorism in all its forms.#Pulwama #KashmirTerrorAttack — Alexandre Ziegler (@FranceinIndia) February 14, 2019 × In an official statement, the Russian Embassy said, it "condemns in the strongest terms the horrific terrorist attack in Kashmir’s Pulwama district, which claimed precious lives of more than 40 CRPF personnel and left numerous people injured." Calling for a strong response to terror, Russian embassy also said on Twitter, "We denounce terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and reiterate the need to combat these inhuman acts with a decisive and collective response without any double standards." .@RusEmbIndia condemns in the strongest terms the horrific terrorist attack in #Kashmir’s #Pulwama district, which claimed precious lives of more than 40 CRPF personnel and left numerous people injured.#pulwamaterrorattack@mfa_russia @MEAIndia @IndEmbMoscow pic.twitter.com/di2JTjQZXx — Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) February 14, 2019 × The response in the neighbourhood was also quick. Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih tweeted, "I strongly condemn the deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir today killing at least 40 people. We send our thoughts and prayers to those affected. The Maldives will continue to work with India and the international community to combat terrorism in our region and the world at large." I strongly condemn the deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir today killing at least 40 people. We send our thoughts and prayers to those affected. The Maldives will continue to work with India and the international community to combat terrorism in our region and the world at large. — Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) February 14, 2019 × Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid wrote a message to external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj condemning the terrorist attack and conveying sympathy to the Government and people of the Republic of India. In a message on Twitter, Shahid said, "The Maldives is fully committed to the fight against terrorism and will continue to work closely with India, and the international community in eliminating this global menace." Strongly condemn the suicide terrorist attack on the convoy carrying Indian security forces in Jammu and Kashmir today. I extend my prayers and condolences to the bereaved families of the dead and injured.@MEAIndia — Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) February 14, 2019 × Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was one of the first foreign leaders to speak to PM Narendra Modi during which he expresses his condolences on the terror attack. In a statement, Nepal government said, "In line with its principled position, Nepal unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and believes that such heinous acts of terrorism cannot be justified on any ground." Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in a tweet also expressed his condolences. He said, "I strongly condemn the brutal terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pulwama district — the worst ever terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir since 1989. I express my condolences to @narendramodi and the families of police officers who lost their lives." I strongly condemn the brutal terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pulwama district — the worst ever terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir since 1989. I express my condolences to @narendramodi and the families of police officers who lost their lives. — Ranil Wickremesinghe (@RW_UNP) February 14, 2019 × Former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa tweeted, "The world should continue to combat terrorism." I condemn the terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir that attacked a convoy, killing 44 soldiers. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. The world should continue to combat terrorism. — Mahinda Rajapaksa (@PresRajapaksa) February 14, 2019 × The Bhutanese foreign minister said, " Shocked and saddened to hear of the dastardly terrorist attack in Kashmir" adding, "Hope the perpetrators will be brought to justice." Shocked and saddened to hear of the dastardly terrorist attack in Kashmir, which has resulted in the loss of 30 precious human lives. We strongly condemn this heinous attack and express our solidarity with the families of the victims, and the people and Government of India. — ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) February 14, 2019 × A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus ferrying CRPF jawans on Thursday in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama killing 40 people. The attack also left dozens injured — body parts could be seen strewn around the site of the attack — and a steadily-climbing death toll. Police said they had identified the terrorist who had carried out the attack as Adil Ahmad Dar from Kakapora in Pulwama, and that he joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2018. A news agency ANI reported that National Security Adviser Ajit Doval was overseeing the situation in Kashmir and that he was being briefed by senior CRPF officials.

US, Russia, France condemn Pulwama terror attack

With the latest report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Air Force, Performance Audit on “Capital Acquisition in Indian Air Force” tabled in Parliament, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Arun Jaitley has gone on the offensive and called the Congress party’s bluff. He has tweeted "CAG report has completely vindicated the stand of NDA Government. It has blasted the big lie which was being spearheaded by the Congress."

The CAG report says that the fly-away price of the Rafale jet is the same as agreed in 2007 by the UPA government for 126 aircraft deal, Compared to that deal, India could manage to save 17.08 per cent money for specific enhancements in the present 36 Rafale contract.&nbsp;

The CAG report comes close on the heels of the huge Congress rally in Lucknow on January 11 to kickstart the party's election campaign for the coming Lok Sabha election. This rally was led by Congress President Rahul Gandhi, along with the two newly appointed general secretaries of the party, Rahul’s sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and the scion of the erstwhile ruling family of Gwalior Jyotiraditya Scindia, both in-charge of Uttar Pradesh.

The Congress President used the Lucknow rally to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi by calling him a thief.&nbsp;

Armed with the 141-page CAG report, Jaitley has lashed out at the Congress President and said in a tweet: "The entire pricing argument was factually wrong. The Rs. 30,000 crore favour to a private company is non-existent. He has also reminded people how in 1989 when the Congress government headed by Rajeev Gandhi was mired in corruption, they had manufactured a Saint Kitts against VP Singh. Because Modi has a clean image they are manufacturing a crisis.... This is exactly the repetition of 1989.”&nbsp;

When the Rafale deal is in focus, one should understand that acquisition by the Air Force has been disturbed for over 15 years.&nbsp;

As a consequence of this, about a dozen Air Force squadrons had suffered depleting strength and there was an emergency-like situation. Hence for the sake of augmenting air power, there were negotiations and renegotiations for 2 squadrons on a priority basis leading to the Rafale deal.

A lot of confusion has been created among the masses by the Congress party and the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance of opposition parties) about Rafale. People need to be told that Rs. 30,000 crore offset has not gone entirely to Reliance. In fact, Reliance, chosen directly by Dassault under the offset clause, is there only for manufacturing the cockpit assembly for Falcon jets and the Dassault Reliance Aerospace Limited (DRAL) has already completed the first cockpit front section for a Falcon 2000 at its Nagpur manufacturing facility.&nbsp;

Also, the Congress leaders have been talking a lot about HAL not being brought in through the offset route for Rafale jets. In this regard, it is important to note that negotiations for Transfer of Technology (ToT) in the case of HAL had collapsed during the previous UPA regime and if negotiations were to start again, it would have taken another 2 to 3 years to arrive at an agreement.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra might be enthused by the huge turnout at Congress party’s Lucknow rally. But in the coming days, she will have to be ready to face a burst of salvos for standing by Robert Vadra, her husband, when he went to the Enforcement Directorate to answer queries during the investigation into the alleged acquisition of properties in London worth millions of British Pound.&nbsp;

Her action by any standard goes against probity in public life. Priyanka would have risen in public esteem if she had detached herself and taken the stand that first her husband should get exonerated just as leaders, cutting across party lines, had done when they were roped in the Hawala scandal in the early ‘90s of the last Century. 
 
By not taking this position it is clear that in the case of the first family of the Congress party the family comes before the nation.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
 
&nbsp;

With the latest report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Air Force, Performance Audit on “Capital Acquisition in Indian Air Force” tabled in Parliament, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Arun Jaitley has gone on the offensive and called the Congress party’s bluff.

With the latest report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Air Force, Performance Audit on “Capital Acquisition in Indian Air Force” tabled in Parliament, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, Arun Jaitley has gone on the offensive and called the Congress party’s bluff. He has tweeted "CAG report has completely vindicated the stand of NDA Government. It has blasted the big lie which was being spearheaded by the Congress." The CAG report says that the fly-away price of the Rafale jet is the same as agreed in 2007 by the UPA government for 126 aircraft deal, Compared to that deal, India could manage to save 17.08 per cent money for specific enhancements in the present 36 Rafale contract. The CAG report comes close on the heels of the huge Congress rally in Lucknow on January 11 to kickstart the party's election campaign for the coming Lok Sabha election. This rally was led by Congress President Rahul Gandhi, along with the two newly appointed general secretaries of the party, Rahul’s sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and the scion of the erstwhile ruling family of Gwalior Jyotiraditya Scindia, both in-charge of Uttar Pradesh. The Congress President used the Lucknow rally to target Prime Minister Narendra Modi by calling him a thief. Armed with the 141-page CAG report, Jaitley has lashed out at the Congress President and said in a tweet: "The entire pricing argument was factually wrong. The Rs. 30,000 crore favour to a private company is non-existent. He has also reminded people how in 1989 when the Congress government headed by Rajeev Gandhi was mired in corruption, they had manufactured a Saint Kitts against VP Singh. Because Modi has a clean image they are manufacturing a crisis.... This is exactly the repetition of 1989.” When the Rafale deal is in focus, one should understand that acquisition by the Air Force has been disturbed for over 15 years. As a consequence of this, about a dozen Air Force squadrons had suffered depleting strength and there was an emergency-like situation. Hence for the sake of augmenting air power, there were negotiations and renegotiations for 2 squadrons on a priority basis leading to the Rafale deal. A lot of confusion has been created among the masses by the Congress party and the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance of opposition parties) about Rafale. People need to be told that Rs. 30,000 crore offset has not gone entirely to Reliance. In fact, Reliance, chosen directly by Dassault under the offset clause, is there only for manufacturing the cockpit assembly for Falcon jets and the Dassault Reliance Aerospace Limited (DRAL) has already completed the first cockpit front section for a Falcon 2000 at its Nagpur manufacturing facility. Also, the Congress leaders have been talking a lot about HAL not being brought in through the offset route for Rafale jets. In this regard, it is important to note that negotiations for Transfer of Technology (ToT) in the case of HAL had collapsed during the previous UPA regime and if negotiations were to start again, it would have taken another 2 to 3 years to arrive at an agreement. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra might be enthused by the huge turnout at Congress party’s Lucknow rally. But in the coming days, she will have to be ready to face a burst of salvos for standing by Robert Vadra, her husband, when he went to the Enforcement Directorate to answer queries during the investigation into the alleged acquisition of properties in London worth millions of British Pound. Her action by any standard goes against probity in public life. Priyanka would have risen in public esteem if she had detached herself and taken the stand that first her husband should get exonerated just as leaders, cutting across party lines, had done when they were roped in the Hawala scandal in the early ‘90s of the last Century. By not taking this position it is clear that in the case of the first family of the Congress party the family comes before the nation. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Congress must come clean on corruption charges against Robert Vadra first and then talk about Rafale deal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned Thursday's "despicable" and "dastardly" terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">that left 40 CRPF jawans dead</a>.&nbsp;

A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist had rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus carrying the CRPF jawans. The attack had left dozens of people injured — body parts could be seen strewn around the site of the attack — and a steadily-increasing death toll.&nbsp;

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K Vijay Kumar, Advisor to J&amp;K Govt to ANI: Death toll in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pulwamaattack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pulwamaattack</a> is around 40 <a href="https://t.co/mUPCRcZnhz">pic.twitter.com/mUPCRcZnhz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096051185356820481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The "attack on CRPF personnel in Pulwama is despicable. I strongly condemn this dastardly attack," Modi tweeted.&nbsp;

"The sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain," he said.&nbsp;

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Attack on CRPF personnel in Pulwama is despicable. I strongly condemn this dastardly attack. The sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain. The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of the brave martyrs. May the injured recover quickly.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1096035566670565376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of the brave martyrs. May the injured recover quickly," he added. &nbsp;

The attack on the bus took place at 3.15 pm near Awantipora.&nbsp;

The bus had been part of a convoy of 70 vehicles travelling from Jammu to Srinagar; there were some 2,500 personnel in the convoy.&nbsp;

The toll has continued to climb steadily since the afternoon.&nbsp;

First reports seem to suggest the terrorist who carried out the attack used a 100 kilograms of explosive.&nbsp;

The news agency ANI reported that the Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS.

Police said they had identified the terrorist who had carried out the attack as Adil Ahmad from Kakapora in Pulwama. And that he joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2018.&nbsp;

Modi added Thursday that he had spoken "to Home Minister Rajnath Singh and other top officials regarding the situation in the wake of the attack in Pulwama".&nbsp;

He also spoke with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval who, ANI reported, was overseeing the situation in Kashmir and being briefed by senior CRPF officials.&nbsp;

Singh meanwhile said that "the attack was carried out by the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed".

He added that "a strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this".&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Home Minister Rajnath Singh, says,"The attack was carried out by Pakistan backed Jaish e Mohammed. A strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a> <a href="https://t.co/OdhLUtNK8h">pic.twitter.com/OdhLUtNK8h</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1096070940755148801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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K Vijay Kumar, adviser to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, told ANI that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) would join the investigation into the attack.&nbsp;

Sources meanwhile said the Cabinet Committee on Security would meet at 9:15 am on Friday.&nbsp;

Mobile internet services meanwhile have been suspended in all of south Kashmir — Pulwama is one of the four districts of south Kashmir — and their speed slowed down to 2G in Srinagar district.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned Thursday's "despicable" and "dastardly" terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that left 40 CRPF jawans dead. A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist had rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus carrying the CRPF jawans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned Thursday's "despicable" and "dastardly" terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that left 40 CRPF jawans dead. A Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist had rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into a bus carrying the CRPF jawans. The attack had left dozens of people injured — body parts could be seen strewn around the site of the attack — and a steadily-increasing death toll. K Vijay Kumar, Advisor to J&K Govt to ANI: Death toll in #Pulwamaattack is around 40 pic.twitter.com/mUPCRcZnhz — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × The "attack on CRPF personnel in Pulwama is despicable. I strongly condemn this dastardly attack," Modi tweeted. "The sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain," he said. Attack on CRPF personnel in Pulwama is despicable. I strongly condemn this dastardly attack. The sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain. The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of the brave martyrs. May the injured recover quickly. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 14, 2019 × "The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of the brave martyrs. May the injured recover quickly," he added. The attack on the bus took place at 3.15 pm near Awantipora. The bus had been part of a convoy of 70 vehicles travelling from Jammu to Srinagar; there were some 2,500 personnel in the convoy. The toll has continued to climb steadily since the afternoon. First reports seem to suggest the terrorist who carried out the attack used a 100 kilograms of explosive. The news agency ANI reported that the Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for the attack in a text message sent to the Kashmiri news agency GNS. Police said they had identified the terrorist who had carried out the attack as Adil Ahmad from Kakapora in Pulwama. And that he joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed in 2018. Modi added Thursday that he had spoken "to Home Minister Rajnath Singh and other top officials regarding the situation in the wake of the attack in Pulwama". He also spoke with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval who, ANI reported, was overseeing the situation in Kashmir and being briefed by senior CRPF officials. Singh meanwhile said that "the attack was carried out by the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed". He added that "a strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this". #WATCH: Home Minister Rajnath Singh, says,"The attack was carried out by Pakistan backed Jaish e Mohammed. A strong reply will be given and I assure the people of the country this." #PulwamaAttack pic.twitter.com/OdhLUtNK8h — ANI (@ANI) February 14, 2019 × K Vijay Kumar, adviser to the government of Jammu and Kashmir, told ANI that the National Investigation Agency (NIA) would join the investigation into the attack. Sources meanwhile said the Cabinet Committee on Security would meet at 9:15 am on Friday. Mobile internet services meanwhile have been suspended in all of south Kashmir — Pulwama is one of the four districts of south Kashmir — and their speed slowed down to 2G in Srinagar district.

Sacrifices of our brave security personnel shall not go in vain: Modi after 40 die in Pulwama attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be going to South Korea on a two-day visit from February 21 to 22.

During the visit, he will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize. The award to the PM Narendra Modi was announced last year.

Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel &amp; United Nation chiefs like Ban Ki-moon, Kofi Annan.

PM Modi had visited South Korea in May of 2015. Last year in July, South Korean president Moon Jae In visit India.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;

After President Moon's election victory in 2017, PM Modi was the 4th international leader to congratulate him. In his addition, PM Modi’s congratulatory tweet in the Korean language was well appreciated by President Moon.

Many South Korean companies are household names in India. According to Statistics Korea, Indian exports to Korea accounted for $ 2.91 billion and imports account for $ 8.707 billion during January-July 2017, marking a growth of 26% and 30.1%.&nbsp;

Major Korean companies such as Samsung, Hyundai Motors and LG have made major investments in India, estimated around $4.43 billion (Figures till March 2017).&nbsp;

A Sister company of Hyundai Group, Kia motors recently announced an investment of $ 1.1 billion to set up a manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Samsung Electronics has announced a $ 760 million investment to expand production facilities in India. Indian companies have invested $ 3 billion in South Korea.

About 11000 Indian nationals are living in South Korea with 1000 more pursuing postgraduate and PhD programmes in the country.

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.&nbsp;

They met last year in Singapore for the landmark meeting between the two.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be going to South Korea on a two-day visit from February 21 to 22. During the visit, he will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be going to South Korea on a two-day visit from February 21 to 22. During the visit, he will be honoured with the Seoul Peace Prize. The award to the PM Narendra Modi was announced last year. Previous recipients of the award include German Chancellor Angela Merkel & United Nation chiefs like Ban Ki-moon, Kofi Annan. PM Modi had visited South Korea in May of 2015. Last year in July, South Korean president Moon Jae In visit India. 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. In his addition, PM Modi’s congratulatory tweet in the Korean language was well appreciated by President Moon. Many South Korean companies are household names in India. According to Statistics Korea, Indian exports to Korea accounted for $ 2.91 billion and imports account for $ 8.707 billion during January-July 2017, marking a growth of 26% and 30.1%. Major Korean companies such as Samsung, Hyundai Motors and LG have made major investments in India, estimated around $4.43 billion (Figures till March 2017). A Sister company of Hyundai Group, Kia motors recently announced an investment of $ 1.1 billion to set up a manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh. Samsung Electronics has announced a $ 760 million investment to expand production facilities in India. Indian companies have invested $ 3 billion in South Korea. About 11000 Indian nationals are living in South Korea with 1000 more pursuing postgraduate and PhD programmes in the country. 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 landmark meeting between the two.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit South Korea on February 21, 22

Former Samajwadi Party chief and Akhilesh Yadav's father Mulayam Singh Yadav father has thrown political circles into a slight tizzy with his latest comment. He told Narendra Modi on Wednesday that he wanted him to become prime minister again.&nbsp;

"I want to congratulate the PM for trying to take everybody along," Mulayam said. &nbsp;

"I want all the MPs to win again, and for you to become prime minister again," he added. &nbsp;

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Samajwadi Party's Mulayam Singh Yadav in Lok Sabha: PM ko badhaai dena chahta hun ki PM ne sabko saath lekar chalne ki koshish ki hai. Main kehna chahta hun ki saare sadaysa phir se jeet kar aayen, aur aap (PM) dobara pradhan mantri banein (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/reeyh5H9bB">pic.twitter.com/reeyh5H9bB</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095632564591702017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Samajwadi Party's Mulayam Singh Yadav in Lok Sabha, says, "PM ko badhaai dena chahta hun ki PM ne sabko saath lekar chalne ka pura prayas kiya. Main chahta hun, meri kamna hai ki saare sadsya phir se jeet kar aayen aur aap (PM) dobara pradhan mantri banein." <a href="https://t.co/j6Bnj9Kr3p">pic.twitter.com/j6Bnj9Kr3p</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095655381966163971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Wednesday was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/triple-talaq-citizenship-amendment-bill-lapse-as-rajya-sabha-adjourned-sine-die-197104">the last day of parliament</a> before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Mulayam made his comments with former Congress president Sonia Gandhi sitting next to him. Modi in turn smiled, and folded his hands in a namaste.&nbsp;

Mulayam's son Akhilesh and the current chief of the Samajwadi Party is of course firmly in the opposition camp. He will be fighting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in alliance with BSP chief Mayawati. They will be the main challengers of Uttar Pradesh's ruling BJP.&nbsp;

UP is the country most important state politically, sending 80 MPs to parliament.&nbsp;

All has not seemed to be well between Akhilesh and his father Mulayam since a family feud broke out within the SP with Mulayam placing himself somewhere between the competing factions of Akhilesh and Mulayam's brothers Shivpal and Ram Gopal.&nbsp;

Shivpal has since broken away from the SP, setting up a separate Samajwadi Secular Morcha. Shivpal has also said that the SP's current tie-up the BSP goes against everything Mulayam has fought for.&nbsp;

Former Samajwadi Party chief and Akhilesh Yadav's father Mulayam Singh Yadav father has thrown political circles into a slight tizzy with his latest comment. He told Narendra Modi on Wednesday that he wanted him to become prime minister again.

Former Samajwadi Party chief and Akhilesh Yadav's father Mulayam Singh Yadav father has thrown political circles into a slight tizzy with his latest comment. He told Narendra Modi on Wednesday that he wanted him to become prime minister again. "I want to congratulate the PM for trying to take everybody along," Mulayam said. "I want all the MPs to win again, and for you to become prime minister again," he added. Samajwadi Party's Mulayam Singh Yadav in Lok Sabha: PM ko badhaai dena chahta hun ki PM ne sabko saath lekar chalne ki koshish ki hai. Main kehna chahta hun ki saare sadaysa phir se jeet kar aayen, aur aap (PM) dobara pradhan mantri banein (File pic) pic.twitter.com/reeyh5H9bB — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × #WATCH Samajwadi Party's Mulayam Singh Yadav in Lok Sabha, says, "PM ko badhaai dena chahta hun ki PM ne sabko saath lekar chalne ka pura prayas kiya. Main chahta hun, meri kamna hai ki saare sadsya phir se jeet kar aayen aur aap (PM) dobara pradhan mantri banein." pic.twitter.com/j6Bnj9Kr3p — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × Wednesday was the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Mulayam made his comments with former Congress president Sonia Gandhi sitting next to him. Modi in turn smiled, and folded his hands in a namaste. Mulayam's son Akhilesh and the current chief of the Samajwadi Party is of course firmly in the opposition camp. He will be fighting the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in alliance with BSP chief Mayawati. They will be the main challengers of Uttar Pradesh's ruling BJP. UP is the country most important state politically, sending 80 MPs to parliament. All has not seemed to be well between Akhilesh and his father Mulayam since a family feud broke out within the SP with Mulayam placing himself somewhere between the competing factions of Akhilesh and Mulayam's brothers Shivpal and Ram Gopal. Shivpal has since broken away from the SP, setting up a separate Samajwadi Secular Morcha. Shivpal has also said that the SP's current tie-up the BSP goes against everything Mulayam has fought for.

I want you to become PM again: Mulayam Singh Yadav to Narendra Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/countrys-confidence-at-all-time-high-modi-says-on-last-day-of-parliament-before-elections-197183">Country's confidence at&nbsp;</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/countrys-confidence-at-all-time-high-modi-says-on-last-day-of-parliament-before-elections-197183">all-time</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/countrys-confidence-at-all-time-high-modi-says-on-last-day-of-parliament-before-elections-197183"> high, Modi says on last day of parliament before elections</a>

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/10-students-injured-in-an-explosion-in-at-a-school-in-jk-pulwama-197138">Jammu and Kashmir: 16 schoolchildren injured after&nbsp;explosion</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/10-students-injured-in-an-explosion-in-at-a-school-in-jk-pulwama-197138"> inside </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/10-students-injured-in-an-explosion-in-at-a-school-in-jk-pulwama-197138">classroom</a>

Sixteen school students were injured in a blast inside the classroom of a private school Falai-e-Millat in the Narbal area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hardline-islamists-injure-dozens-in-attack-on-minority-muslims-in-bangladesh-197179">Bangladesh: 25 people injured after hardline Islamists attack minority Muslims</a>

Police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at hundreds of hardline Islamists who attacked minority Muslims in northern Bangladesh, leaving at least 25 people injured, officials said Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-arrests-president-duterte-critic-journalist-maria-ressa-on-libel-charge-197186">Philippines</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-arrests-president-duterte-critic-journalist-maria-ressa-on-libel-charge-197186"> arrests President Duterte critic journalist Maria Ressa on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-arrests-president-duterte-critic-journalist-maria-ressa-on-libel-charge-197186">libel</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-arrests-president-duterte-critic-journalist-maria-ressa-on-libel-charge-197186"> charge</a>

Philippine journalist Maria Ressa, who has repeatedly clashed with President Rodrigo Duterte, was arrested in her Manila office on Wednesday in what rights advocates called an act of "persecution".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/its-mays-deal-or-long-brexit-delay-uks-chief-negotiator-overheard-saying-in-bar-197142">It's May's deal or long Brexit delay, UK's chief negotiator overheard saying in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/its-mays-deal-or-long-brexit-delay-uks-chief-negotiator-overheard-saying-in-bar-197142">bar</a>

British lawmakers will face a stark choice between Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal a long extension to the March 29 deadline for leaving the bloc, the UK's chief Brexit negotiator was overheard saying in a Brussels bar.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Country's confidence at all-time high, Modi says on last day of parliament before elections Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high.

Country's confidence at all-time high, Modi says on last day of parliament before elections Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high. Jammu and Kashmir: 16 schoolchildren injured after explosion inside classroom Sixteen school students were injured in a blast inside the classroom of a private school Falai-e-Millat in the Narbal area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district on Wednesday. Bangladesh: 25 people injured after hardline Islamists attack minority Muslims Police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at hundreds of hardline Islamists who attacked minority Muslims in northern Bangladesh, leaving at least 25 people injured, officials said Wednesday. Philippines arrests President Duterte critic journalist Maria Ressa on libel charge Philippine journalist Maria Ressa, who has repeatedly clashed with President Rodrigo Duterte, was arrested in her Manila office on Wednesday in what rights advocates called an act of "persecution". It's May's deal or long Brexit delay, UK's chief negotiator overheard saying in bar British lawmakers will face a stark choice between Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal a long extension to the March 29 deadline for leaving the bloc, the UK's chief Brexit negotiator was overheard saying in a Brussels bar.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high.&nbsp;

"I think this is a very good sign because such confidence gives a&nbsp;boost to development," Modi said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

He went on to tell his fellow parliamentarians that we "will be proud of this sixteenth Lok Sabha, as it saw the highest number of women members (44) elected to the house."&nbsp;

Modi added that this Lok Sabha also "passed laws to fight the menace of black money and corruption" and the GST bill.

On the other hand, he said, this Lok Sabha "has also put an end to over 1,400 laws, it had become a jungle-like situation with too many laws. This is a good beginning but more work needs to be done... <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-want-you-to-become-pm-again-mulayam-singh-yadav-to-narendra-modi-197166">for which Mulayam Singh Yadav has given me his blessing</a>".&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: 3 dashak ke baad ek purn bahumat wali sarkaar bani aur azaadi ke baad pehli baar Congress gotra ki nahi hai aisi sarkaar bani hai. Congress gotra nahi aisi milijuli pehli sarkaar Atal ji ki thi aur aisi purn bahumat wali sarkaar 2014 mein bani <a href="https://t.co/Nh0Ss62fZY">pic.twitter.com/Nh0Ss62fZY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095638215501979649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On the last day of parliament, Modi referred back to when he had first entered the house, saying he had learnt so much in parliament. "Pehli baar mujhe pata chala ki gale milne aur gale padne mein kya antar hai (For the first time I understood that there is a difference between hugging someone and going for his throat.")

And he once again lashed out at his favourite target of attack — Congress president Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

He harked back to when Rahul had said he would make such a big announcement that there would be an earthquake. None came, Modi said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

He also referred to when Congress MPs had flown paper planes in parliament to protest against the Rafale deal. The dignity of democracy is so high, Modi said Wednesday, that no plane could touch it.&nbsp;

And of course he brought up Rahul's wink in parliament.

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PM Modi: Mein pehli baar yahan aya, bahut si cheezein jaanne ko mili. Pehli baar mujhe pata chala ki gale milne aur gale padne mein kya antar hai. Pehli baar dekh raha hun ki sadan mein aankhon se gustakhiyaan hoti hain. <a href="https://t.co/tuSHdq5bHn">pic.twitter.com/tuSHdq5bHn</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1095645833591177217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Pehli baar dekh raha hun ki sadan mein aankhon se gustakhiyaan hoti hain," Modi said.&nbsp;

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high.

Speaking in the Lok Sabha on the last day of parliament before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country's confidence is at an all-time high. "I think this is a very good sign because such confidence gives a boost to development," Modi said on Wednesday. He went on to tell his fellow parliamentarians that we "will be proud of this sixteenth Lok Sabha, as it saw the highest number of women members (44) elected to the house." Modi added that this Lok Sabha also "passed laws to fight the menace of black money and corruption" and the GST bill. On the other hand, he said, this Lok Sabha "has also put an end to over 1,400 laws, it had become a jungle-like situation with too many laws. This is a good beginning but more work needs to be done... for which Mulayam Singh Yadav has given me his blessing". PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha: 3 dashak ke baad ek purn bahumat wali sarkaar bani aur azaadi ke baad pehli baar Congress gotra ki nahi hai aisi sarkaar bani hai. Congress gotra nahi aisi milijuli pehli sarkaar Atal ji ki thi aur aisi purn bahumat wali sarkaar 2014 mein bani pic.twitter.com/Nh0Ss62fZY — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × On the last day of parliament, Modi referred back to when he had first entered the house, saying he had learnt so much in parliament. "Pehli baar mujhe pata chala ki gale milne aur gale padne mein kya antar hai (For the first time I understood that there is a difference between hugging someone and going for his throat.") And he once again lashed out at his favourite target of attack — Congress president Rahul Gandhi. He harked back to when Rahul had said he would make such a big announcement that there would be an earthquake. None came, Modi said on Wednesday. He also referred to when Congress MPs had flown paper planes in parliament to protest against the Rafale deal. The dignity of democracy is so high, Modi said Wednesday, that no plane could touch it. And of course he brought up Rahul's wink in parliament. PM Modi: Mein pehli baar yahan aya, bahut si cheezein jaanne ko mili. Pehli baar mujhe pata chala ki gale milne aur gale padne mein kya antar hai. Pehli baar dekh raha hun ki sadan mein aankhon se gustakhiyaan hoti hain. pic.twitter.com/tuSHdq5bHn — ANI (@ANI) February 13, 2019 × "Pehli baar dekh raha hun ki sadan mein aankhon se gustakhiyaan hoti hain," Modi said.

Country's confidence at all-time high, Modi says on last day of parliament before elections

South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa was the chief guest at the 70th Republic Day Parade during his first state visit to India on January 25-26 this year.&nbsp;

President Matamela and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extensive discussions on a wide range of issues of bilateral, regional and global importance.

In the post-Cold War era, the relationship between the two countries has improved significantly with India and South Africa having fostered a strategic partnership through the Red Fort Declaration of 1997 and the Tshwane Declaration of 2006.&nbsp;

The formation of the India-Africa Summit in 2008 has further underscored the desire of the two sides to deepen the engagement to fulfil their interests in an unpredictable regional and global order.&nbsp;

Over the last four years, the Modi government’s efforts have truly elevated the relationship between India and South Africa to a new height.&nbsp;

One highlight of this intense bilateral engagement was the participation of 41 African countries in the third India-Africa Forum Summit, held in Delhi in 2016. During these four years, several ministers of the Union cabinet, including Prime Minister Modi, have visited South Africa.&nbsp;

The recent visit of Ramaphosa was the latest development towards re-energising the ties.

Indeed, it gave a big boost to security and defence cooperation, with the two sides having agreed to enter into a three-year strategic engagement. &nbsp;

This, in turn, will serve the two countries’ interests. India and South Africa are two major regional powers in the Indian Ocean, both are strategically located and feel that cooperation between them is indispensable to maintain peace and security in the region. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It is in this context that the South African National Defence Force will participate in the first Multinational India-Africa Field Training Exercise at Pune in March this year, enabling the two forces to understand each others’ functioning. &nbsp;

The South African defence industry has reaffirmed its desire to work with India in the manufacturing of defence hardware under the Make in India Initiative, which is a significant step towards meeting India’s defence requirements and turning this country into an arms-manufacturing hub.&nbsp;

It is precisely in this light that the Ministry of Defence has lifted the ban on South Africa’s state-owned defence company, Denel SOC Ltd.&nbsp;

To boost ties with South Africa and other African countries, the aim is effectively developing a counter-balance against Beijing, especially when China has focused on expanding its influence in the Indian Ocean and beyond.&nbsp;

Another aspect of India-South Africa relations are their expanding economies, with bilateral trade reaching to rise to $10.65 billion in 2018-19 from $9.38 billion in 2017-18.&nbsp;

In 2016, the two countries set a target of doubling bilateral trade and investment to $20-billion by 2021.Over 150 Indian companies have invested in South Africa, with India having emerged as one of the top five trading partners of South Africa.&nbsp;

While these investments have fuelled developmental initiatives in South Africa, New Delhi sees this continent as a big market for Indian investment, goods, expertise, technology and services.&nbsp;

Conversely, over 29 South African companies have invested in different sectors of the Indian economy, accounting for $790 million.&nbsp;

The formation of the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment and President Ramaphosa’s assurance to simplify and reform the South African business visa regime, will further strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties.&nbsp;

At a time when China has made huge investments in Africa and is trying to engage this continent in its Belt Road Initiative, India feels that expanding economic ties with South Africa and other African countries, would enable it to contain China’s growing clout. &nbsp;

Energy shortage is an important reason for India to aggressively pursue its foreign policy towards Africa. This continent has huge energy reserves, while India is an energy deficient country, importing 70 per cent of its oil needs.&nbsp;

Thus South Africa, which has a huge uranium reserve, can play an important role in providing sustained supply to help India’s nuclear plants.&nbsp;

Close ties will also enable the two sides to exert combined force for the reform of the Security Council, WTO, thereby making the global institutions reflect the reality of the present international scenario. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-matamela-cyril-ramaphosa-s-r-day-visit-puts-india-on-african-radar-2718831">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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South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa was the chief guest at the 70th Republic Day Parade during his first state visit to India on January 25-26 this year.

South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa was the chief guest at the 70th Republic Day Parade during his first state visit to India on January 25-26 this year. President Matamela and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extensive discussions on a wide range of issues of bilateral, regional and global importance. In the post-Cold War era, the relationship between the two countries has improved significantly with India and South Africa having fostered a strategic partnership through the Red Fort Declaration of 1997 and the Tshwane Declaration of 2006. The formation of the India-Africa Summit in 2008 has further underscored the desire of the two sides to deepen the engagement to fulfil their interests in an unpredictable regional and global order. Over the last four years, the Modi government’s efforts have truly elevated the relationship between India and South Africa to a new height. One highlight of this intense bilateral engagement was the participation of 41 African countries in the third India-Africa Forum Summit, held in Delhi in 2016. During these four years, several ministers of the Union cabinet, including Prime Minister Modi, have visited South Africa. The recent visit of Ramaphosa was the latest development towards re-energising the ties. Indeed, it gave a big boost to security and defence cooperation, with the two sides having agreed to enter into a three-year strategic engagement. This, in turn, will serve the two countries’ interests. India and South Africa are two major regional powers in the Indian Ocean, both are strategically located and feel that cooperation between them is indispensable to maintain peace and security in the region. It is in this context that the South African National Defence Force will participate in the first Multinational India-Africa Field Training Exercise at Pune in March this year, enabling the two forces to understand each others’ functioning. The South African defence industry has reaffirmed its desire to work with India in the manufacturing of defence hardware under the Make in India Initiative, which is a significant step towards meeting India’s defence requirements and turning this country into an arms-manufacturing hub. It is precisely in this light that the Ministry of Defence has lifted the ban on South Africa’s state-owned defence company, Denel SOC Ltd. To boost ties with South Africa and other African countries, the aim is effectively developing a counter-balance against Beijing, especially when China has focused on expanding its influence in the Indian Ocean and beyond. Another aspect of India-South Africa relations are their expanding economies, with bilateral trade reaching to rise to $10.65 billion in 2018-19 from $9.38 billion in 2017-18. In 2016, the two countries set a target of doubling bilateral trade and investment to $20-billion by 2021.Over 150 Indian companies have invested in South Africa, with India having emerged as one of the top five trading partners of South Africa. While these investments have fuelled developmental initiatives in South Africa, New Delhi sees this continent as a big market for Indian investment, goods, expertise, technology and services. Conversely, over 29 South African companies have invested in different sectors of the Indian economy, accounting for $790 million. The formation of the Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment and President Ramaphosa’s assurance to simplify and reform the South African business visa regime, will further strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties. At a time when China has made huge investments in Africa and is trying to engage this continent in its Belt Road Initiative, India feels that expanding economic ties with South Africa and other African countries, would enable it to contain China’s growing clout. Energy shortage is an important reason for India to aggressively pursue its foreign policy towards Africa. This continent has huge energy reserves, while India is an energy deficient country, importing 70 per cent of its oil needs. Thus South Africa, which has a huge uranium reserve, can play an important role in providing sustained supply to help India’s nuclear plants. Close ties will also enable the two sides to exert combined force for the reform of the Security Council, WTO, thereby making the global institutions reflect the reality of the present international scenario. (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.)

South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa’s R-Day visit puts India on African radar

Laurence Tubiana, former French ambassador to COP 21 negotiations or the Paris climate negotiations spoke exclusively to WION diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal on climate change, India's solar agenda and the&nbsp;relationship between health and pollution policy.&nbsp;

Wion: What has changed since the Paris Climate accord?

Laurence Tubiana: I think what has changed in Paris is that in every country, government, city mayors they consider climate change as a major risk. We see the impact already and all countries thinking about how they can contribute to fighting against climate change. That is an achievement from Paris.

Of course, at the same time, we see some government, in particular, the US govt that has decided to withdraw from Paris agreement. That is a concern and it is really important that all countries stick together.

Even if Washington agreement has said no to Paris, you see, an enormous evolution within the US society, at state, business, the investor just want to go in another direction. Climate change is not a problem of government, or diplomacy but of every citizen. We live in a totally different world for the last three years.

Wion: How was it being a woman at the Paris Climate negotiations?

Laurence Tubiana: It was not always easy, but in a way, I learnt and they learnt to listen to me seriously. I could contribute that I wasn't partisan of a top-down approach. I was partisan of a where countries are, where the governments were. Finally, they respected me and now I have many friends all over the world to support that agreement.

Wion: How do you see India's policy on climate change?&nbsp;

Laurence Tubiana: India can do a lot. India can bet on good technology and need to provide clean air to everyone. And in a way, India is looking at future and future is low carbon economy. I'm comforted by the fact that climate is now part of many policies in India.

I was with Niti Aayog and climate is embedded in the sustainable development mission of India. India can do much more, like India's role in the deployment of renewable energy especially rural areas can play a massive role. India has enormous potential. India is showing how to leapfrog.

PM Modi sent a strong political message when he spoke on electric cars. India can be an example for the world.

Wion: How do you see India's International Solar Alliance(ISA) project?

Laurence Tubiana: This programme, ISA is interesting, it shows every country thinks together in this big problem. How we really deploy massively on solar energy. India is trying to find a financial solution to climate change. The solar alliance is having a productive effect since it has raised the profile of solar energy.&nbsp;

Wion: But are you disappointed that the world is not speaking in one voice on climate change?

Laurence Tubiana: I think, it's too slow, we are lagging behind on what we need to do. The IPCC report, an Indian scientist view is to accelerate all over the world. It is not about global threats but actual damage to everyone's life.

Climate policy can go hand in hand with health policy. Delhi is a polluted city, Paris is a polluted city. We have to take into citizens well being. We have to change the mindset. India can show the lead.

Laurence Tubiana, former French ambassador to COP 21 negotiations or the Paris climate negotiations spoke exclusively to WION diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal on climate change, India's solar agenda and the relationship between health and pollution policy.

Laurence Tubiana, former French ambassador to COP 21 negotiations or the Paris climate negotiations spoke exclusively to WION diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibal on climate change, India's solar agenda and the relationship between health and pollution policy. Wion: What has changed since the Paris Climate accord? Laurence Tubiana: I think what has changed in Paris is that in every country, government, city mayors they consider climate change as a major risk. We see the impact already and all countries thinking about how they can contribute to fighting against climate change. That is an achievement from Paris. Of course, at the same time, we see some government, in particular, the US govt that has decided to withdraw from Paris agreement. That is a concern and it is really important that all countries stick together. Even if Washington agreement has said no to Paris, you see, an enormous evolution within the US society, at state, business, the investor just want to go in another direction. Climate change is not a problem of government, or diplomacy but of every citizen. We live in a totally different world for the last three years. Wion: How was it being a woman at the Paris Climate negotiations? Laurence Tubiana: It was not always easy, but in a way, I learnt and they learnt to listen to me seriously. I could contribute that I wasn't partisan of a top-down approach. I was partisan of a where countries are, where the governments were. Finally, they respected me and now I have many friends all over the world to support that agreement. Wion: How do you see India's policy on climate change? Laurence Tubiana: India can do a lot. India can bet on good technology and need to provide clean air to everyone. And in a way, India is looking at future and future is low carbon economy. I'm comforted by the fact that climate is now part of many policies in India. I was with Niti Aayog and climate is embedded in the sustainable development mission of India. India can do much more, like India's role in the deployment of renewable energy especially rural areas can play a massive role. India has enormous potential. India is showing how to leapfrog. PM Modi sent a strong political message when he spoke on electric cars. India can be an example for the world. Wion: How do you see India's International Solar Alliance(ISA) project? Laurence Tubiana: This programme, ISA is interesting, it shows every country thinks together in this big problem. How we really deploy massively on solar energy. India is trying to find a financial solution to climate change. The solar alliance is having a productive effect since it has raised the profile of solar energy. Wion: But are you disappointed that the world is not speaking in one voice on climate change? Laurence Tubiana: I think, it's too slow, we are lagging behind on what we need to do. The IPCC report, an Indian scientist view is to accelerate all over the world. It is not about global threats but actual damage to everyone's life. Climate policy can go hand in hand with health policy. Delhi is a polluted city, Paris is a polluted city. We have to take into citizens well being. We have to change the mindset. India can show the lead.

India can show the lead, says French diplomat Tubiana who led Paris climate change negotiations

The Supreme Court on Monday slammed those states which had not appointed state Lokayuktas yet in the appointment of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anna-hazare-calls-off-indefinite-hunger-strike-after-maharashtra-cm-accepts-his-demand-195426">Lokpal</a> Lokayuktas petition.

Nagaland government will file an affidavit explaining the delay in appointment of Lokayukta till next hearing while the Tamil Nadu Government was directed to complete the process of Lokayukta appointment within four months.

Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi said, "We want to be harsh but are refraining from saying anything at this stage."The petition was filed by advocate and BJP leader, Ashwini Upadhyay, seeking a direction to expeditiously appoint Lokpal at the Centre, Lokayukta in states and provide a citizen charter in every department to ensure time-bound delivery of goods and services.

As per provisions of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, a Lokpal as anti-corruption authority or ombudsman would be set up at the Central level, while a Lokayukta will be set up in each state.

In July last year, the Supreme Court had expressed its displeasure over non-appointment of Lokpal by the central government.

In September, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government had appointed a Search Committee to nominate the chairperson and members of the Lokpal.&nbsp;

Supreme Court judge Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai was nominated as chairperson of the committee.

Earlier this month, the Supreme Court asked the Lokpal Search Committee to complete its task of short-listing names for a Lokpal by February-end and submit the list for consideration to the Selection Committee. The apex court will hear the plea on March 7.

The Supreme Court on Monday slammed those states which had not appointed state Lokayuktas yet in the appointment of Lokpal Lokayuktas petition. Nagaland government will file an affidavit explaining the delay in appointment of Lokayukta till next hearing while the Tamil Nadu Government was directed to complete the process of Lokayukta appointment within four months.

The Supreme Court on Monday slammed those states which had not appointed state Lokayuktas yet in the appointment of Lokpal Lokayuktas petition. Nagaland government will file an affidavit explaining the delay in appointment of Lokayukta till next hearing while the Tamil Nadu Government was directed to complete the process of Lokayukta appointment within four months. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi said, "We want to be harsh but are refraining from saying anything at this stage."The petition was filed by advocate and BJP leader, Ashwini Upadhyay, seeking a direction to expeditiously appoint Lokpal at the Centre, Lokayukta in states and provide a citizen charter in every department to ensure time-bound delivery of goods and services. As per provisions of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013, a Lokpal as anti-corruption authority or ombudsman would be set up at the Central level, while a Lokayukta will be set up in each state. In July last year, the Supreme Court had expressed its displeasure over non-appointment of Lokpal by the central government. In September, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government had appointed a Search Committee to nominate the chairperson and members of the Lokpal. Supreme Court judge Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai was nominated as chairperson of the committee. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court asked the Lokpal Search Committee to complete its task of short-listing names for a Lokpal by February-end and submit the list for consideration to the Selection Committee. The apex court will hear the plea on March 7.

Supreme Court slams states who failed to appoint state Lokayuktas yet

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday pitched for unity among BJP workers, saying that they should forget all differences and work together to ensure Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s victory in the coming Lok Sabha elections.

With a tube in his nose, Parrikar, who is battling pancreatic ailment, slammed the Congress, saying that it will never come to power in Goa.

"I will not give a big speech today. I will reserve it for elections. All I will say today is that 25,000-30,000 workers should come together. Forget small differences and let us fight to make Modi ji as the Prime Minister again. There will be rumours spread, but our motive should be one, that this time it should be Modi ji. If we go with this spirit, we will achieve our goals," he said at the Atal booth-level workers convention in Bambolim.

The Goa chief minister also claimed that Congress will meet the fate of Sri Lanka if BJP workers come together and fight the Lok Sabha elections.

Parrikar has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, and New York since February 2018.&nbsp;

He was reportedly admitted to the cancer department of AIIMS, Delhi on February 1.

A visibly frail-looking Parrikar on January 30 presented the Goa Budget in the state Assembly, asserting that he was "high on Josh" (enthusiasm).

The Goa Chief Minister also inspected an under-construction bridge on Mandovi river, the first time he was seen in public since returning to the state on October 14 last year post hospitalisation in AIIMS in the national capital.

For long, the Congress has been demanding that it should be allowed to form the government in the state, claiming that Parrikar`s prolonged illness and inability to attend office was taking a toll on administration and governance.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday pitched for unity among BJP workers, saying that they should forget all differences and work together to ensure Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s victory in the coming Lok Sabha elections.

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Saturday pitched for unity among BJP workers, saying that they should forget all differences and work together to ensure Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s victory in the coming Lok Sabha elections. With a tube in his nose, Parrikar, who is battling pancreatic ailment, slammed the Congress, saying that it will never come to power in Goa. "I will not give a big speech today. I will reserve it for elections. All I will say today is that 25,000-30,000 workers should come together. Forget small differences and let us fight to make Modi ji as the Prime Minister again. There will be rumours spread, but our motive should be one, that this time it should be Modi ji. If we go with this spirit, we will achieve our goals," he said at the Atal booth-level workers convention in Bambolim. The Goa chief minister also claimed that Congress will meet the fate of Sri Lanka if BJP workers come together and fight the Lok Sabha elections. Parrikar has been in and out of hospitals in Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, and New York since February 2018. He was reportedly admitted to the cancer department of AIIMS, Delhi on February 1. A visibly frail-looking Parrikar on January 30 presented the Goa Budget in the state Assembly, asserting that he was "high on Josh" (enthusiasm). The Goa Chief Minister also inspected an under-construction bridge on Mandovi river, the first time he was seen in public since returning to the state on October 14 last year post hospitalisation in AIIMS in the national capital. For long, the Congress has been demanding that it should be allowed to form the government in the state, claiming that Parrikar`s prolonged illness and inability to attend office was taking a toll on administration and governance.

Let's fight together to make Narendra Modi PM again: Parrikar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12.

"A few days ago, the nation showed its utter disgust at a story of how a top UPA Minister kept pushing a narrative that our army will do a coup.

Every Indian knows that our army can do no such thing, but look at the Congress attitude," Modi said addressing a public rally here.

The Prime Minister's comments come days after Union minister and former Army chief V K Singh said he had written to Modi seeking a probe into the alleged planting of false stories about an attempted coup during the UPA-II government in 2012.

Singh had said, "Indian Army loves the country and can never go against it."

Modi also mentioned about the government fulfilling the four decades old demand for One Rank One Pension, and said: "Congress also leaves no opportunity to belittle our Army."

He said one of the Congress leaders used unpardonable language for the army chief, at a time when the Indian army went across the border to do a surgical strike.

The Prime Minister said the NDA government "is a government for each and every Indian. We are leaving no stone unturned for future-proofing India."

His comments assume significance in the wake of repeated attacks from main opposition DMK and its friendly parties in Tamil Nadu that the BJP government at the Centre was working against the interests of the minorities.

Explaining what he meant by future-proofing India, the Prime Minister said it was a reference to a holistic approach to development that safeguards the well-being of our "coming generations."

He cited the 'speed doubling' seen in the pace of road constructions, Bharat Mala project that connected the remotest corners of the nation and 'Sagarmala' that harnessed the power of ports, among other things, while referring to the holistic approach to development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said an army coup would never happen in India apparently referring to alleged planting of false stories that the army under the then chief V K Singh had planned such a move in 2011-12. "A few days ago, the nation showed its utter disgust at a story of how a top UPA Minister kept pushing a narrative that our army will do a coup. Every Indian knows that our army can do no such thing, but look at the Congress attitude," Modi said addressing a public rally here. The Prime Minister's comments come days after Union minister and former Army chief V K Singh said he had written to Modi seeking a probe into the alleged planting of false stories about an attempted coup during the UPA-II government in 2012. Singh had said, "Indian Army loves the country and can never go against it." Modi also mentioned about the government fulfilling the four decades old demand for One Rank One Pension, and said: "Congress also leaves no opportunity to belittle our Army." He said one of the Congress leaders used unpardonable language for the army chief, at a time when the Indian army went across the border to do a surgical strike. The Prime Minister said the NDA government "is a government for each and every Indian. We are leaving no stone unturned for future-proofing India." His comments assume significance in the wake of repeated attacks from main opposition DMK and its friendly parties in Tamil Nadu that the BJP government at the Centre was working against the interests of the minorities. Explaining what he meant by future-proofing India, the Prime Minister said it was a reference to a holistic approach to development that safeguards the well-being of our "coming generations." He cited the 'speed doubling' seen in the pace of road constructions, Bharat Mala project that connected the remotest corners of the nation and 'Sagarmala' that harnessed the power of ports, among other things, while referring to the holistic approach to development.

Every Indian knows that our Army will never attempt a coup: PM Narendra Modi

Bangladesh is hopeful over the assurance that was given by India over the contentious dispute on the water-sharing issue of Teesta river, flowing on the India-Bangladesh border.

The Dhaka Tribune quoted Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen while briefing the media at the VIP lounge of the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport upon his return from India on Saturday, as saying, “I am always hopeful. India and Bangladesh have solved many big problems. Based on this hope we have developed a sense of confidence and sense of mutual trust. I believe in that. And, they have assured us and I very much believe in that.”

“Not only Teesta; we have many rivers. Why are we only talking about this river? 54 (common) rivers are in our discussions. Slowly, we’ll solve (issues related to) all of them. In terms of a solution, we have advanced a lot. Time is passing, but it will be done. There is no cause for worry,” he added.

The Foreign Minister, however, did not confirm any specific date for the Teesta agreement, stating that Bangladesh is only hopeful that the two neighbouring countries would successfully sign the deal very soon.

“I cannot give any date. We are only hoping,” Momen said.

“We discussed all the common rivers, including Teesta, and we are hopeful,” he told another questioner,” the Foreign Minister added.

Previously, the Teesta water agreement was slated to be inked between the two countries on September 6, 2011, during the visit of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to Dhaka. But the proposed deal was called off after repeated objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

The water-sharing issue was once again discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Dhaka in June 2015. Prime Minister Modi had assured Shiekh Hasina of Bangladesh that the waters of the River would be shared while looking forward to achieving a quick resolution on the issue.

India and Bangladesh share 54 common streams with the Teesta being a major one and the water sharing dispute between the two neighbours is not something new.

The Teesta River is a 309 km long river flowing through Sikkim.

It carves a way for itself through the verdant Himalayas in temperate and tropical river valleys and forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal.

The flow of the river is crucial for Bangladesh from December to March for that they require 50 per cent of the river's water supply.

While India claims a share of 55 per cent.

The dispute would take back to the time when Independent India was formed which reduced most of its northern rivers into 'shared water bodies.'&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Bangladesh is hopeful over the assurance that was given by India over the contentious dispute on the water-sharing issue of Teesta river, flowing on the India-Bangladesh border.

Bangladesh is hopeful over the assurance that was given by India over the contentious dispute on the water-sharing issue of Teesta river, flowing on the India-Bangladesh border. The Dhaka Tribune quoted Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen while briefing the media at the VIP lounge of the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport upon his return from India on Saturday, as saying, “I am always hopeful. India and Bangladesh have solved many big problems. Based on this hope we have developed a sense of confidence and sense of mutual trust. I believe in that. And, they have assured us and I very much believe in that.” “Not only Teesta; we have many rivers. Why are we only talking about this river? 54 (common) rivers are in our discussions. Slowly, we’ll solve (issues related to) all of them. In terms of a solution, we have advanced a lot. Time is passing, but it will be done. There is no cause for worry,” he added. The Foreign Minister, however, did not confirm any specific date for the Teesta agreement, stating that Bangladesh is only hopeful that the two neighbouring countries would successfully sign the deal very soon. “I cannot give any date. We are only hoping,” Momen said. “We discussed all the common rivers, including Teesta, and we are hopeful,” he told another questioner,” the Foreign Minister added. Previously, the Teesta water agreement was slated to be inked between the two countries on September 6, 2011, during the visit of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to Dhaka. But the proposed deal was called off after repeated objections by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The water-sharing issue was once again discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Dhaka in June 2015. Prime Minister Modi had assured Shiekh Hasina of Bangladesh that the waters of the River would be shared while looking forward to achieving a quick resolution on the issue. India and Bangladesh share 54 common streams with the Teesta being a major one and the water sharing dispute between the two neighbours is not something new. The Teesta River is a 309 km long river flowing through Sikkim. It carves a way for itself through the verdant Himalayas in temperate and tropical river valleys and forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal. The flow of the river is crucial for Bangladesh from December to March for that they require 50 per cent of the river's water supply. While India claims a share of 55 per cent. The dispute would take back to the time when Independent India was formed which reduced most of its northern rivers into 'shared water bodies.'

Bangladesh hopeful on India's assurance over Teesta water-sharing issue

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-hating-modi-the-opposition-has-begun-to-hate-the-nation-pm-modi-195852">After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday</a>, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday.&nbsp;

Modi said that Chandrababu had promised to make the "sun rise" in Andhra, but that he is stuck on making his "son rise".

He added that Chandrababu had promised to start new programmes for the poor, but that all he has done is put his sticker on Modi's programmes.&nbsp;

Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to changing alliances. The TDP walked out of the NDA alliance in 2018 after the Centre refused to give Andhra special category status, which had been promised to it by the previous UPA regime when Telangana was carved out of it in 2013.&nbsp;

Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to forging new alliances. Chandrababu had been by Mamata Banerjee's side last week when she called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna. The two had had closed-door talks before she called off her dharna.&nbsp;

Modi was not done with his digs at Chandrababu, telling him again that he is a "senior" when it comes to knifing his father-in-law (NT Rama Rao) in the back, and that he is a senior when it comes to losing election after election.&nbsp;

Modi also brought up the opposition meet slated for Monday in Delhi.&nbsp;

"He (Chandrababu) will go to Delhi tomorrow to get his photo taken. He will go with a lot of people, and will sound his party's bugle (for the 2019 elections)."&nbsp;

Modi then added that the BJP organises meets like this with its workers' money but that Chandrababu, on the other hand, will be taking money from the state treasury."&nbsp;

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Modi was in Andhra to inaugurate development projects and also kick off the BJP's campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabah elections in the state. This was the first time Modi was visiting Andhra after the TDP walked out of the NDA alliance.&nbsp;

After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday.

After attacking the Congress in the Lok Sabha on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in his state on Sunday. Modi said that Chandrababu had promised to make the "sun rise" in Andhra, but that he is stuck on making his "son rise". He added that Chandrababu had promised to start new programmes for the poor, but that all he has done is put his sticker on Modi's programmes. Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to changing alliances. The TDP walked out of the NDA alliance in 2018 after the Centre refused to give Andhra special category status, which had been promised to it by the previous UPA regime when Telangana was carved out of it in 2013. Modi added that Chandrababu is a "senior" when it comes to forging new alliances. Chandrababu had been by Mamata Banerjee's side last week when she called off her "Save the Constitution" dharna. The two had had closed-door talks before she called off her dharna. Modi was not done with his digs at Chandrababu, telling him again that he is a "senior" when it comes to knifing his father-in-law (NT Rama Rao) in the back, and that he is a senior when it comes to losing election after election. Modi also brought up the opposition meet slated for Monday in Delhi. "He (Chandrababu) will go to Delhi tomorrow to get his photo taken. He will go with a lot of people, and will sound his party's bugle (for the 2019 elections)." Modi then added that the BJP organises meets like this with its workers' money but that Chandrababu, on the other hand, will be taking money from the state treasury." PM in Guntur: Ye (Chandrababu Naidu) kal photo khichwane ke liye Delhi jane wale hain, bada hujoom le ke jane wale hain, party ka bigul bajane. Lekin BJP jaise apne karyakartaon ke paiso se karyakram kara rahi hai, vo Andhra ki janta ki tijori se paise nikaal kar ke ja rahe hain. pic.twitter.com/RMkgmhqeJj — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2019 × PM Modi in AP: Unhone (Chandrababu Naidu) Andhra Pradesh ke sun rise ka waada kiya tha, lekin apne ‘son’ ko hi rise karane main jutt gaye hain, unhone Andhra ke gareebon ke liye nayi yojnaein chalane ka wada kiya tha, lekin Modi ki yojanaon par hi apna sticker laga diya hai. pic.twitter.com/gZKntjqf0B — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2019 × Modi was in Andhra to inaugurate development projects and also kick off the BJP's campaign for the 2019 Lok Sabah elections in the state. This was the first time Modi was visiting Andhra after the TDP walked out of the NDA alliance.

Chandrababu Naidu promised 'sun rise' in Andhra, but he is stuck on making 'son rise': Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu. The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-hating-modi-the-opposition-has-begun-to-hate-the-nation-pm-modi-195852">prime minister</a>, while addressing a BJP-organised public meeting in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur district, did not leave any stone unturned to come down strongly on his friend-turned-foe.&nbsp;

"Baap-bete (Chandrababu and son Lokesh) ki sarkaar Andhra Pradesh se jaana tay hain,'' thundered Modi while blowing the poll bugle in the state.&nbsp;

In his one-hour speech which started exactly at 11.40 am and finished at 12.40 pm, the prime minister took 42 minutes to take on Chandrababu Naidu and his son Nara Lokesh point by point.

Calling Chandrababu Naidu a backstabber while referring to the coup Naidu staged against his father-in-law NT Rama Rao way back in 1995, the prime minister shot off what he said were "four truths": &nbsp;

"One, Chandrababu is now scared of losing the 2019 elections. Two, that the Andhra Pradesh chief minister wants to anoint his son Nara Lokesh as his political successor but is unable to do so. Three, Naidu is focusing on wealth creation; not of Andhra Pradesh but his own wealth creation. And four, your chaukidaar is giving Naidu sleepless nights asking him tough questions on where the central money has been spent and how much.''

Modi took a dig at Chandrababu for allegedly using public money to book two trains to New Delhi from Andhra Pradesh to demand special status for the state. "Just for photo opportunity, Babu is using public money for his own political gains and what he is going to do in Delhi... go and bow his head in front of Congress. The TDP was formed by late NTR on self-respect plank against this very Congress Party but today Chandrababu would do anything to please the Congress.''

Reacting sharply to frequent allegations that the Centre has given Andhra Pradesh step-motherly treatment, Modi informed the gathering of all the schemes and money that the Centre has given to Andhra Pradesh. "We will never deprieve any state of what it deserves and in case of Andhra Pradesh, we are fulfilling one by one all the provisions made in Andhra Pradesh state re-organisation act," Modi said.

While taking strong exception to the foul language being used against him by the TDP, Modi said, "There's desperation in TDP and they know quite well that they are going to lose the next elections here."

Interestingly, the prime minister did not make any mention of YSR Congress Party or Pavan Kalyan, who had supported the TDP-BJP combine in the 2014 elections but has now formed a political outfit of its own. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waited for an opportune time and venue to blast Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and Telugu Desam Party president Nara Chandrababu Naidu. The prime minister, while addressing a BJP-organised public meeting in Andhra Pradesh's Guntur district, did not leave any stone unturned to come down strongly on his friend-turned-foe. "Baap-bete (Chandrababu and son Lokesh) ki sarkaar Andhra Pradesh se jaana tay hain,'' thundered Modi while blowing the poll bugle in the state. In his one-hour speech which started exactly at 11.40 am and finished at 12.40 pm, the prime minister took 42 minutes to take on Chandrababu Naidu and his son Nara Lokesh point by point. Calling Chandrababu Naidu a backstabber while referring to the coup Naidu staged against his father-in-law NT Rama Rao way back in 1995, the prime minister shot off what he said were "four truths": "One, Chandrababu is now scared of losing the 2019 elections. Two, that the Andhra Pradesh chief minister wants to anoint his son Nara Lokesh as his political successor but is unable to do so. Three, Naidu is focusing on wealth creation; not of Andhra Pradesh but his own wealth creation. And four, your chaukidaar is giving Naidu sleepless nights asking him tough questions on where the central money has been spent and how much.'' Modi took a dig at Chandrababu for allegedly using public money to book two trains to New Delhi from Andhra Pradesh to demand special status for the state. "Just for photo opportunity, Babu is using public money for his own political gains and what he is going to do in Delhi... go and bow his head in front of Congress. The TDP was formed by late NTR on self-respect plank against this very Congress Party but today Chandrababu would do anything to please the Congress.'' Reacting sharply to frequent allegations that the Centre has given Andhra Pradesh step-motherly treatment, Modi informed the gathering of all the schemes and money that the Centre has given to Andhra Pradesh. "We will never deprieve any state of what it deserves and in case of Andhra Pradesh, we are fulfilling one by one all the provisions made in Andhra Pradesh state re-organisation act," Modi said. While taking strong exception to the foul language being used against him by the TDP, Modi said, "There's desperation in TDP and they know quite well that they are going to lose the next elections here." Interestingly, the prime minister did not make any mention of YSR Congress Party or Pavan Kalyan, who had supported the TDP-BJP combine in the 2014 elections but has now formed a political outfit of its own.

Chandrababu Naidu stabbed his father-in-law in the back: Modi in Andhra

India has slammed Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan for his comments on the situation of minorities in India, calling his remarks an "egregious insult to all citizens of India".

Raveesh Kumar, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, said, "Pakistan’s Prime Minister has yet again demonstrated his lack of understanding about India’s secular polity and ethos. He overlooks the obvious fact that adherents of all faiths choose to live under the democratic polity and the progressive Constitution of India."

"India has eminent leaders of all faiths who occupy its highest Constitutional and official positions," Kumar added.&nbsp;

Pak prime minister Imran Khan was in Nankana Sahib on Saturday where he said, unlike India, his country doesn't treat its minorities as second class citizens.

India also highlighted the incident of the removal of Princeton University economist Atif Mian from Imran Khan-led Economic Advisory Council (EAC) owing to his minority Ahmadiyya background.

MEA said, "Pakistani citizens of non-Islamic faith are barred from occupying high Constitutional offices. The minorities are often turned away from government bodies like the Economic Advisory Council of their Prime Minister, even in ‘naya Pakistan'."

India said Pakistan "would do well to focus on its domestic challenges" and "improve conditions of its citizens rather than try and divert attention".

Pakistan has been trying to get a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to support its ailing economy. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-to-meet-imf-chief-lagarde-for-talks-on-bailout-196271">Imran Khan will be meeting IMF chief Christine Lagarde on Sunday</a> in Dubai for the same.&nbsp;

This is not the first time when Khan has raked the topic of minorities in India. In December, he said he will "show Modi government how to treat minorities".

On December 25, 2018, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Khan tweeted, "Naya Pakistan is Quaid’s Pakistan and will ensure that our minorities are treated as equal citizens, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-ensure-our-minorities-are-treated-as-equals-unlike-what-is-happening-in-india-imran-khan-186352">unlike what is happening in India</a>".

India has slammed Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan for his comments on the situation of minorities in India, calling his remarks an "egregious insult to all citizens of India".

India has slammed Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan for his comments on the situation of minorities in India, calling his remarks an "egregious insult to all citizens of India". Raveesh Kumar, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, said, "Pakistan’s Prime Minister has yet again demonstrated his lack of understanding about India’s secular polity and ethos. He overlooks the obvious fact that adherents of all faiths choose to live under the democratic polity and the progressive Constitution of India." "India has eminent leaders of all faiths who occupy its highest Constitutional and official positions," Kumar added. Pak prime minister Imran Khan was in Nankana Sahib on Saturday where he said, unlike India, his country doesn't treat its minorities as second class citizens. India also highlighted the incident of the removal of Princeton University economist Atif Mian from Imran Khan-led Economic Advisory Council (EAC) owing to his minority Ahmadiyya background. MEA said, "Pakistani citizens of non-Islamic faith are barred from occupying high Constitutional offices. The minorities are often turned away from government bodies like the Economic Advisory Council of their Prime Minister, even in ‘naya Pakistan'." India said Pakistan "would do well to focus on its domestic challenges" and "improve conditions of its citizens rather than try and divert attention". Pakistan has been trying to get a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to support its ailing economy. Imran Khan will be meeting IMF chief Christine Lagarde on Sunday in Dubai for the same. This is not the first time when Khan has raked the topic of minorities in India. In December, he said he will "show Modi government how to treat minorities". On December 25, 2018, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Khan tweeted, "Naya Pakistan is Quaid’s Pakistan and will ensure that our minorities are treated as equal citizens, unlike what is happening in India".

Imran Khan criticises state of minorities in India; New Delhi calls his comments 'egregious insult to all citizens' 

New Delhi is in discussion with Beijing for an early announcement of Chinese import quotas for sugar and rice for 2019. The move will help Indian exporters plan their exports well in time for the current year.

India is also engaging with China for signing protocols for the export of Indian soybean meals, cakes and pomegranates to China in the near future, discussions for the same are advancing.&nbsp;

India's Department of Commerce has signed three protocols with China to ease the environment for Indian businesses in the world's second-largest economy.

In June 2018, a protocol on the export of Indian rice to China was signed during PM Modi's visit for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Qingdao. The agreement paved way for the export of Indian rice to China.

In November 2018, India and China signed a protocol for the export of Indian fishmeal/fish oil to China.

Last month, on January 21 and 22, both the countries renewed and signed the protocol on the export of Indian tobacco, making way for the exports of Indian tobacco to China.&nbsp;

The growth of Indian exports to China has been driven by marine products, organic chemicals, plastics, petroleum products, grapes and rice. Indian exports to China between April-December 2018 stood at $12.7 billion.

China and India have been keen on engaging bilaterally especially on the trade front. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times last year. This year, the Chinese President will be visiting India for the second informal summit between the two countries. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/wuhan-was-a-milestone-pm-modi-president-xi-have-personal-connect-sushma-swaraj-185698">The first informal summit took place in Wuhan</a> in April 2018.

New Delhi is in discussion with Beijing for an early announcement of Chinese import quotas for sugar and rice for 2019. The move will help Indian exporters plan their exports well in time for the current year.

New Delhi is in discussion with Beijing for an early announcement of Chinese import quotas for sugar and rice for 2019. The move will help Indian exporters plan their exports well in time for the current year. India is also engaging with China for signing protocols for the export of Indian soybean meals, cakes and pomegranates to China in the near future, discussions for the same are advancing. India's Department of Commerce has signed three protocols with China to ease the environment for Indian businesses in the world's second-largest economy. In June 2018, a protocol on the export of Indian rice to China was signed during PM Modi's visit for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Qingdao. The agreement paved way for the export of Indian rice to China. In November 2018, India and China signed a protocol for the export of Indian fishmeal/fish oil to China. Last month, on January 21 and 22, both the countries renewed and signed the protocol on the export of Indian tobacco, making way for the exports of Indian tobacco to China. The growth of Indian exports to China has been driven by marine products, organic chemicals, plastics, petroleum products, grapes and rice. Indian exports to China between April-December 2018 stood at $12.7 billion. China and India have been keen on engaging bilaterally especially on the trade front. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times last year. This year, the Chinese President will be visiting India for the second informal summit between the two countries. The first informal summit took place in Wuhan in April 2018.

India in talks with China for early announcement of Chinese import quotas

Nothing is permanent in Indian politics. Right after a triple victory in Assembly elections, Congress lost Jind in Haryana and Mausam Noor shifted her loyalty to TMC from Congress in West Bengal.&nbsp;

In this context, what has happened in Mumbai is also not a small development. It has brought out fissures in the party in open before the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Senior leaders have addressed internal issues in public drawing strong attention of the ruling dispensation to the state of affairs within the Congress. 
&nbsp; 
Today, Mumbai Congress stands split wide open over the issue of leadership and choice of candidates. Ticket distribution has dominated the reportage but the real reason for the tiff lies elsewhere. The fight also brings out the tussle between who started their political career from Congress and those who joined after having a career in regional parties.&nbsp;

In this case, for Mumbai Congress president Sanjay Nirupam - Shiv Sena will always remain a baggage. 
&nbsp; 
A lot of local leaders within the Congress feel that Mumbai Congress is on the verge of becoming a casualty of identity politics. Mumbai’s electorate is primarily divided among Marathi, Gujarati and people from North India.&nbsp;

Leaders like Milind Deora feel that aggressive polarisation between communities has upset Gujarati and Marathi communities in Mumbai. Some local politicians believe that aggressive identity politics done by past party presidents like Kripashankar Singh, Janardan Chandurkar and present chief by Sanjay Nirupam have alienated the Gujarati and Marathi votes from the Congress. This section feels that strong identity politics is Shiv Sena's domain and Congress should not walk the same path as it is a&nbsp;recipient of votes from&nbsp;broad section of the society. 
&nbsp; 
Many leaders in Congress admit that aggressive politics on identity is a departure from the politics of the earlier era. Rajni Patel was a Gujarati who could manage a broad spectrum of communities for the Congress. Murli Deora was a Marwari who stayed as Mumbai Congress president for 22 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Gurudas Kamat was a Kannadiga but avoided hard identity politics. The view is that hard identity politics is Shiv Sena’s domain and Congress would not fetch political results if it tries to walk the same route.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On the other hand, the detractors argue that Marathi votes would get divided between all the parties in the fray in Mumbai, and Gujarati votes are, anyways, predisposed towards Prime minister Narendra Modi, and hence, the strategy to go after the North Indian votes is a good one.&nbsp;

But all these perspectives instead of being discussed behind close room are being debated in public. 
&nbsp; 
Subsequently, the squabble has found expression in ticket distribution in Mumbai. Who gets which seat is a big question. Whether Sanjay Nirupam should get Mumbai North West or Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi or Kripa Shankar Singh is a matter of debate.&nbsp;

Whether Sanjay Nirupam should be replaced and Milind Deora be made the Mumbai Congress chief is again a matter of&nbsp;strategy. 
&nbsp; 
But if Congress does not put its own house in order then it would be in no position to fight BJP-Shiv Sena combine in Maharashtra. It should worry the Congress leadership in Delhi. When Congress beat BJP in 2009 Lok Sabha elections, it did very well in both Mumbai and Delhi. Both cities represent a cosmopolitan idea of India and unfortunately, the party lies in a disarray.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Nothing is permanent in Indian politics. Right after a triple victory in Assembly elections, Congress lost Jind in Haryana and Mausam Noor shifted her loyalty to TMC from Congress in West Bengal.

Nothing is permanent in Indian politics. Right after a triple victory in Assembly elections, Congress lost Jind in Haryana and Mausam Noor shifted her loyalty to TMC from Congress in West Bengal. In this context, what has happened in Mumbai is also not a small development. It has brought out fissures in the party in open before the Lok Sabha elections. Senior leaders have addressed internal issues in public drawing strong attention of the ruling dispensation to the state of affairs within the Congress. Today, Mumbai Congress stands split wide open over the issue of leadership and choice of candidates. Ticket distribution has dominated the reportage but the real reason for the tiff lies elsewhere. The fight also brings out the tussle between who started their political career from Congress and those who joined after having a career in regional parties. In this case, for Mumbai Congress president Sanjay Nirupam - Shiv Sena will always remain a baggage. A lot of local leaders within the Congress feel that Mumbai Congress is on the verge of becoming a casualty of identity politics. Mumbai’s electorate is primarily divided among Marathi, Gujarati and people from North India. Leaders like Milind Deora feel that aggressive polarisation between communities has upset Gujarati and Marathi communities in Mumbai. Some local politicians believe that aggressive identity politics done by past party presidents like Kripashankar Singh, Janardan Chandurkar and present chief by Sanjay Nirupam have alienated the Gujarati and Marathi votes from the Congress. This section feels that strong identity politics is Shiv Sena's domain and Congress should not walk the same path as it is a recipient of votes from broad section of the society. Many leaders in Congress admit that aggressive politics on identity is a departure from the politics of the earlier era. Rajni Patel was a Gujarati who could manage a broad spectrum of communities for the Congress. Murli Deora was a Marwari who stayed as Mumbai Congress president for 22 years. Gurudas Kamat was a Kannadiga but avoided hard identity politics. The view is that hard identity politics is Shiv Sena’s domain and Congress would not fetch political results if it tries to walk the same route. On the other hand, the detractors argue that Marathi votes would get divided between all the parties in the fray in Mumbai, and Gujarati votes are, anyways, predisposed towards Prime minister Narendra Modi, and hence, the strategy to go after the North Indian votes is a good one. But all these perspectives instead of being discussed behind close room are being debated in public. Subsequently, the squabble has found expression in ticket distribution in Mumbai. Who gets which seat is a big question. Whether Sanjay Nirupam should get Mumbai North West or Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi or Kripa Shankar Singh is a matter of debate. Whether Sanjay Nirupam should be replaced and Milind Deora be made the Mumbai Congress chief is again a matter of strategy. But if Congress does not put its own house in order then it would be in no position to fight BJP-Shiv Sena combine in Maharashtra. It should worry the Congress leadership in Delhi. When Congress beat BJP in 2009 Lok Sabha elections, it did very well in both Mumbai and Delhi. Both cities represent a cosmopolitan idea of India and unfortunately, the party lies in a disarray. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Congress's Mumbai blues: Locals vs outsiders at heart of the debate

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate several projects and lay a foundation of many vital schemes in Arunachal Pradesh during his visit to the north-eastern state on Saturday, officials said Thursday.

Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of a green field Airport at Hollongi near here, they said.

The ambitious airport project in the state has been pending for several years due to controversies over site selection. Arunachal Pradesh is the only state in the country without a full-fledged airport.

Initially, Karsingsa was selected as the site for the airport but owing to technicalities, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) had asked the state government to find some other site.

On the request of the state government, a central joint inspection committee visited Itanagar to study the feasibility of the site during 2017 and recommended Hollongi.

The prime minister will also inaugurate a retrofitted airport at Tezu in Lohit district besides a 110 MW hydroelectric project, Arun Prabha channel of Doordarshan and 50 health and wellness centres in the state.

Modi will also lay the foundation stone of a Film and Television Institute at Jote, near here and seven electric substations under Comprehensive Scheme, the officials said.

He would lay the foundation stone of Sella Tunnel and its approach road in Tawang district besides the declaration of a cent per cent household electrification in the state under Saubhagya Scheme.

All the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony would be held from Indira Gandhi Park here, they said.

From Itanagar, Modi is scheduled to visit Assam and Tripura.

Elaborate security arrangements have been made in view of the PMs visit to the state capital. Large contingents of central paramilitary forces besides state police have spread a dragnet across the state capital since Wednesday and thorough checking of visitors at all checking points is going on to prevent entry of unwanted elements, DGP S B K Singh said.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Wednesday took stock of the arrangements at IG Park, the officials added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate several projects and lay a foundation of many vital schemes in Arunachal Pradesh during his visit to the north-eastern state on Saturday, officials said Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate several projects and lay a foundation of many vital schemes in Arunachal Pradesh during his visit to the north-eastern state on Saturday, officials said Thursday. Modi is scheduled to lay the foundation stone of a green field Airport at Hollongi near here, they said. The ambitious airport project in the state has been pending for several years due to controversies over site selection. Arunachal Pradesh is the only state in the country without a full-fledged airport. Initially, Karsingsa was selected as the site for the airport but owing to technicalities, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) had asked the state government to find some other site. On the request of the state government, a central joint inspection committee visited Itanagar to study the feasibility of the site during 2017 and recommended Hollongi. The prime minister will also inaugurate a retrofitted airport at Tezu in Lohit district besides a 110 MW hydroelectric project, Arun Prabha channel of Doordarshan and 50 health and wellness centres in the state. Modi will also lay the foundation stone of a Film and Television Institute at Jote, near here and seven electric substations under Comprehensive Scheme, the officials said. He would lay the foundation stone of Sella Tunnel and its approach road in Tawang district besides the declaration of a cent per cent household electrification in the state under Saubhagya Scheme. All the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony would be held from Indira Gandhi Park here, they said. From Itanagar, Modi is scheduled to visit Assam and Tripura. Elaborate security arrangements have been made in view of the PMs visit to the state capital. Large contingents of central paramilitary forces besides state police have spread a dragnet across the state capital since Wednesday and thorough checking of visitors at all checking points is going on to prevent entry of unwanted elements, DGP S B K Singh said. Chief Minister Pema Khandu accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Wednesday took stock of the arrangements at IG Park, the officials added.

PM to inaugurate several projects in Arunachal Pradesh on Saturday

When the Supreme Court gave its order and Mamata Banerjee declared it a “moral victory”, I was at a tea shop nearby, close to the Metro Cinema.&nbsp;

The discussion there, as is so often the case in Kolkata, was that of politics. Is this really a moral victory for Mamata? Or did the CBI come out on top?

But after returning to Kolkata after a long while and at a time that politics is coursing through the city’s veins, I could not help but wonder about another question: Is this politics, the Chief Minister’s dharna to save democracy, good for Bengal and its people?

Mamata Banerjee stormed to power, catapulted largely by the Singur movement and the politics of bandhs, dharnas and dissent that she inherited from the Left.

But as a Chief Minister, she took a strong stance against such protests, and in September 2016, she reacted to a Left strike in Kolkata and considered passing a law against such bandhs. “It is not the right form of protest,” she had said.

But for Kolkata and Bengal, what is the right form of protest? This is, after all, the city that has seen the maximum number of bandhs since Independence. Former Bengal chief minister Ajoy Mukherjee of the Bangla Congress sat at Dharmatala in protest against his own government, particularly his home minister Jyoti Basu, in the 1960s.

The Left would then go on to convert organised political dissent into an art form, and by the early 2000s, the word ‘bandh’ found itself on the pages of the Oxford English Dictionary (Bandh: Indian, general strike).

It is not accidental that Mamata Banerjee chose Metro Channel for the site of her protest. Steeped with the mythology of ‘Didi’ and ‘Ma Maati Manush’, this is where she had fasted for 25 days to protest land acquisition in Singur in 2006.

I remember that protest. Rajnath Singh had come to show his solidarity. Even the governor, Gopal Krishna Gandhi, came to see the protest. Like then, I am still an onlooker of her politics. The difference is that 13 years have passed in between and the political scenario in both Bengal and the country have changed.

Can the rest of the country accept Mamata Banerjee’s brand of fiery politics? Such a confrontational and aggressive politics is liked, and perhaps even needed, in Bengal. It infuses the party cadre with adrenaline, motivates them and eventually benefits the party. But there are socio-economic reasons for it as well.

What the Oxford Dictionary doesn’t tell you, but many in the state will agree, is that there is a strong socio-economic basis for this: Protests and the politics of bandh are also a livelihood. I spoke to a man in Delhi, who had moved from Midnapore and was running a small taxi company. I asked him,“Tumi kon party koro?” This literally translates into “Which party do you do” — a possibly, more accurate representation of Bengal’s association with its politics.

He replied, “I work through the year and then I vote. The problem here is that there are no jobs, and when you don’t have work, you need the party to survive.”

There is no denying Mamata Banerjee’s success. There were others before her, but it was Banerjee’s relentless politics that dethroned the Left Front regime.

As Chief Minister, she is incredibly active and brings minute attention to detail that has often been missed. No chief minister has held as many meetings in different districts to oversee work being done.

Mamata’s instinctive politics has translated into a form of empathetic governance that has ensured that she continues to be the most popular leader in the state — by a mile.

What impact this protest will have on the 2019 Lok Sabha polls is yet to be seen. But she has managed to swing the spotlight onto her, and away from Rahul Gandhi.

Every non-BJP party has come out in support and allies have turned up in Kolkata to protest with her and her acceptability has increased nationwide.

But Bengal was to host its global business summit this week. With the protest still ongoing, the fate of the summit is anyone’s guess. This year, unlike earlier, there is no participation from the Union government and its ministers, and consequently, participation from the business community is also likely to be less.

Perhaps Mamata Banerjee feels that the dharna is more relevant than global business right now.

As far as moral victories are concerned, it is not important as to who has won between the CBI and Mamata. Banerjee converted this into a standoff over the federal structure, but the fact remains that dissent is important, as is protest — but it can only co-exist alongside debate, and that is what Bengal can’t afford to forget.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-the-politics-of-protest-2716559">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

&nbsp;

When the Supreme Court gave its order and Mamata Banerjee declared it a “moral victory”, I was at a tea shop nearby, close to the Metro Cinema. The discussion there, as is so often the case in Kolkata, was that of politics.

When the Supreme Court gave its order and Mamata Banerjee declared it a “moral victory”, I was at a tea shop nearby, close to the Metro Cinema. The discussion there, as is so often the case in Kolkata, was that of politics. Is this really a moral victory for Mamata? Or did the CBI come out on top? But after returning to Kolkata after a long while and at a time that politics is coursing through the city’s veins, I could not help but wonder about another question: Is this politics, the Chief Minister’s dharna to save democracy, good for Bengal and its people? Mamata Banerjee stormed to power, catapulted largely by the Singur movement and the politics of bandhs, dharnas and dissent that she inherited from the Left. But as a Chief Minister, she took a strong stance against such protests, and in September 2016, she reacted to a Left strike in Kolkata and considered passing a law against such bandhs. “It is not the right form of protest,” she had said. But for Kolkata and Bengal, what is the right form of protest? This is, after all, the city that has seen the maximum number of bandhs since Independence. Former Bengal chief minister Ajoy Mukherjee of the Bangla Congress sat at Dharmatala in protest against his own government, particularly his home minister Jyoti Basu, in the 1960s. The Left would then go on to convert organised political dissent into an art form, and by the early 2000s, the word ‘bandh’ found itself on the pages of the Oxford English Dictionary (Bandh: Indian, general strike). It is not accidental that Mamata Banerjee chose Metro Channel for the site of her protest. Steeped with the mythology of ‘Didi’ and ‘Ma Maati Manush’, this is where she had fasted for 25 days to protest land acquisition in Singur in 2006. I remember that protest. Rajnath Singh had come to show his solidarity. Even the governor, Gopal Krishna Gandhi, came to see the protest. Like then, I am still an onlooker of her politics. The difference is that 13 years have passed in between and the political scenario in both Bengal and the country have changed. Can the rest of the country accept Mamata Banerjee’s brand of fiery politics? Such a confrontational and aggressive politics is liked, and perhaps even needed, in Bengal. It infuses the party cadre with adrenaline, motivates them and eventually benefits the party. But there are socio-economic reasons for it as well. What the Oxford Dictionary doesn’t tell you, but many in the state will agree, is that there is a strong socio-economic basis for this: Protests and the politics of bandh are also a livelihood. I spoke to a man in Delhi, who had moved from Midnapore and was running a small taxi company. I asked him,“Tumi kon party koro?” This literally translates into “Which party do you do” — a possibly, more accurate representation of Bengal’s association with its politics. He replied, “I work through the year and then I vote. The problem here is that there are no jobs, and when you don’t have work, you need the party to survive.” There is no denying Mamata Banerjee’s success. There were others before her, but it was Banerjee’s relentless politics that dethroned the Left Front regime. As Chief Minister, she is incredibly active and brings minute attention to detail that has often been missed. No chief minister has held as many meetings in different districts to oversee work being done. Mamata’s instinctive politics has translated into a form of empathetic governance that has ensured that she continues to be the most popular leader in the state — by a mile. What impact this protest will have on the 2019 Lok Sabha polls is yet to be seen. But she has managed to swing the spotlight onto her, and away from Rahul Gandhi. Every non-BJP party has come out in support and allies have turned up in Kolkata to protest with her and her acceptability has increased nationwide. But Bengal was to host its global business summit this week. With the protest still ongoing, the fate of the summit is anyone’s guess. This year, unlike earlier, there is no participation from the Union government and its ministers, and consequently, participation from the business community is also likely to be less. Perhaps Mamata Banerjee feels that the dharna is more relevant than global business right now. As far as moral victories are concerned, it is not important as to who has won between the CBI and Mamata. Banerjee converted this into a standoff over the federal structure, but the fact remains that dissent is important, as is protest — but it can only co-exist alongside debate, and that is what Bengal can’t afford to forget. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The politics of protest: Is this really a moral victory for Mamata?

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