At the recently held G20 Summit, India’s participation in the Quad meeting and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's informal meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and US Vice President Mike Pence can be seen as an effort to build balanced and cordial relationships with the major global players.

India has a set of convergences and divergences of interests with China, USA and Russia. We have so far been able to keep these relations separate from one another.&nbsp;

India’s differences with China on certain aspects of Sino-Pak nexus, South China Sea row and India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) can also be viewed as a convergence of interests with the US.&nbsp;

Similarly, India’s differences with the US on trade, climate change, and CAATSA, in the context of Russia, can be seen as the convergence of interests with China.

The silver lining is that the US, being our strategic partner, will like to have India's support it in its military operations in case Pakistan does not serve its strategic interest. The US waiver on Chabahar port and import of Iranian oil for the next six months is a welcome step by the US towards India. &nbsp;

After India's suggestion to expand the scope and dimension of QUAD, opening it up to other affected countries, there is a general feeling amongst other QUAD members that India is perhaps getting softer towards China.&nbsp;

The reality is that India has an independent foreign policy. &nbsp;In the Indo-Pacific region, it stands with US, Japan and Australia in checking Chinese encroachment of global commons like the South China Sea. India seeks to enable seamless movement in international water and rule-based order.&nbsp;

India, therefore, has to maintain harmonious relations with all its strategic partners and neighbours to pursue its national interest. Despite such complexities, the silver lining is that the US, as well as China, want better relations with India.

Russia also will not like to lose the largest purchaser of its military hardware and a strategic partnership which stood the test of time even in ‘Heated Cold War’ era.

 The number of bilateral and trilateral meetings attended by India at the G20 Summit clearly explains the balanced diplomatic exercises carried out by India as per its national interest. Indian participation in two significant trilateral meetings - US-Japan-India and China-Russia-India clearly indicates the efforts required to balance relations with two separate groupings.&nbsp;

At G20, India flagged the issue of cooperation in dealing with the fugitive offenders and countering terrorism besides many other issues that represent India’s strategic interest. 
 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

At the recently held G20 Summit, India’s participation in the Quad meeting and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's informal meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and US Vice President Mike Pence can be seen as an effort to build balanced and cordial relationships with the major global players.

At the recently held G20 Summit, India’s participation in the Quad meeting and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's informal meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and US Vice President Mike Pence can be seen as an effort to build balanced and cordial relationships with the major global players. India has a set of convergences and divergences of interests with China, USA and Russia. We have so far been able to keep these relations separate from one another. India’s differences with China on certain aspects of Sino-Pak nexus, South China Sea row and India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) can also be viewed as a convergence of interests with the US. Similarly, India’s differences with the US on trade, climate change, and CAATSA, in the context of Russia, can be seen as the convergence of interests with China. The silver lining is that the US, being our strategic partner, will like to have India's support it in its military operations in case Pakistan does not serve its strategic interest. The US waiver on Chabahar port and import of Iranian oil for the next six months is a welcome step by the US towards India. After India's suggestion to expand the scope and dimension of QUAD, opening it up to other affected countries, there is a general feeling amongst other QUAD members that India is perhaps getting softer towards China. The reality is that India has an independent foreign policy. In the Indo-Pacific region, it stands with US, Japan and Australia in checking Chinese encroachment of global commons like the South China Sea. India seeks to enable seamless movement in international water and rule-based order. India, therefore, has to maintain harmonious relations with all its strategic partners and neighbours to pursue its national interest. Despite such complexities, the silver lining is that the US, as well as China, want better relations with India. Russia also will not like to lose the largest purchaser of its military hardware and a strategic partnership which stood the test of time even in ‘Heated Cold War’ era.  The number of bilateral and trilateral meetings attended by India at the G20 Summit clearly explains the balanced diplomatic exercises carried out by India as per its national interest. Indian participation in two significant trilateral meetings - US-Japan-India and China-Russia-India clearly indicates the efforts required to balance relations with two separate groupings. At G20, India flagged the issue of cooperation in dealing with the fugitive offenders and countering terrorism besides many other issues that represent India’s strategic interest. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India displayed smart diplomacy at G20 Summit

PM Modi hits out at Congress over AgustaWestland scam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today blasted the Congress for giving away Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/all-you-need-to-know-about-kartarpur-corridor-project-180005">Kartarpur</a> to Pakistan.

"The lust for power led to Partition in 1947, the division was also on lines of religion. Congress made these mistakes for the sake of power and their impatience led to this situation. And one of the results of this led to Kartarpur being given to Pakistan. The lack of vision and sensitivity on part of Congress led to this situation. Had they shown a little bit of prudence and maturity, a place just 3km from the border would not have gone to Pakistan," PM Modi said while addressing a rally in Hanumangarh, in poll-bound Rajasthan.

Then Congress leaders had no idea about importance of Guru Nanak Dev, therefore Kartarpur is in Pakistan today, the prime minister added.

He also said, "Even after 70 years, they (Congress) still ignored this. What they ignored for 70 years, we did it in our term and now every pilgrim will be able to visit the gurudwara. Congress should be as asked and be held accountable for this. It is my fate to rectify their mistakes. And my fate was made by the citizens of this country. If we can now go to Kartarpur today - who should be credited for this? Your vote.

Recently, both India and Pakistan announced the construction of the Kartarpur Corridor to connect the Sikh holy shrine in Pakistan to India On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu had laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor at Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan last week held the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/big-hearted-friend-imran-kept-his-promise-sidhu-at-kartarpur-corridor-ceremony-in-pakistan-180010">groundbreaking ceremony</a> for the corridor, after his government reciprocated India's efforts to open the corridor.

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district.

The corridor is expected to be ready before Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary next year.

Captain Amarinder Singh government in Punjab has already announced a slew of development projects to upgrade infrastructure and other facilities for the pilgrims expected to visit the area to mark the Guru Nanak's birth anniversary. The state government has already kicked off year-long celebrations on November 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today blasted the Congress for giving away Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur to Pakistan. "The lust for power led to Partition in 1947, the division was also on lines of religion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today blasted the Congress for giving away Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur to Pakistan. "The lust for power led to Partition in 1947, the division was also on lines of religion. Congress made these mistakes for the sake of power and their impatience led to this situation. And one of the results of this led to Kartarpur being given to Pakistan. The lack of vision and sensitivity on part of Congress led to this situation. Had they shown a little bit of prudence and maturity, a place just 3km from the border would not have gone to Pakistan," PM Modi said while addressing a rally in Hanumangarh, in poll-bound Rajasthan. Then Congress leaders had no idea about importance of Guru Nanak Dev, therefore Kartarpur is in Pakistan today, the prime minister added. He also said, "Even after 70 years, they (Congress) still ignored this. What they ignored for 70 years, we did it in our term and now every pilgrim will be able to visit the gurudwara. Congress should be as asked and be held accountable for this. It is my fate to rectify their mistakes. And my fate was made by the citizens of this country. If we can now go to Kartarpur today - who should be credited for this? Your vote. Recently, both India and Pakistan announced the construction of the Kartarpur Corridor to connect the Sikh holy shrine in Pakistan to India On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu had laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Corridor at Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab's Gurdaspur district. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan last week held the groundbreaking ceremony for the corridor, after his government reciprocated India's efforts to open the corridor. The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district. The corridor is expected to be ready before Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary next year. Captain Amarinder Singh government in Punjab has already announced a slew of development projects to upgrade infrastructure and other facilities for the pilgrims expected to visit the area to mark the Guru Nanak's birth anniversary. The state government has already kicked off year-long celebrations on November 23.

Kartarpur went to Pakistan due to lack of vision of Congress leaders: PM Modi

Mounting a blistering attack on Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday accused the prime minister and the BJP of posing a threat to the country, claiming that they "spread hatred and anger".

Reacting to Gandhi's remark, BJP spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member GVL Narasimha Rao said, "It is the Congress that has resorted to caste and communal politics. The BJP has spoken on issues of development and people's welfare. The Congress, in its desperation to come back to the electoral race, has been appealing to caste and communal considerations."

Addressing rallies in poll-bound Telangana, Gandhi also lambasted caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, calling him "Khao Commission Rao" for alleged corruption and accusing his Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) of being the "B team" of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"Wherever I go, I speak against Narendra Modi, because I know there is a threat to the country from Modi and the BJP. They spread hatred and anger," he said at a rally in Tandur.

The Congress, he asserted, would stand up to it, continue to fight against it and never compromise.

"...In 2019 (Lok Sabha polls), we will see to it that the BJP is defeated and Modi is removed," Gandhi said.

Hitting out at Rao, who is popularly called KCR, he asked the TRS chief why he supported the BJP and wanted to become the "B team" of the saffron party.

"You (KCR) have done so much of corruption that your name is changed. Today, your name KCR stands for 'Khao Commission Rao'.

"Because of this, Modi ran Telangana through a remote control. The fact is that due to your (KCR) corruption, you are not able to stand up to Modi," Gandhi alleged. 
Rao feared Modi as he indulged in corruption, Gandhi claimed, speaking at a rally in Hyderabad in the evening.

"I will tell you the reason. You listen to the speeches of KCRji. In the last five years, (he) did not hurt Narendra Modi, supported him in the Lok Sabha...KCR has indulged in corruption. Modiji has the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate. Because of corruption, KCRji fears Modi," he said.

Telangana's "remote control" was in the hands of Modi, he added.

The Congress chief said in every speech, the prime minister attacked him, made fun of him, talked about his family, but never criticised KCR, adding that the real name of KCR's party (TRS) was "T-RSS".

The TRS and the Asaduddin Owaisi-led All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) were actually the "B" and "C" teams of the BJP, he alleged.

Modi and the TRS had struck a "partnership" to ensure the continuation of the BJP and TRS rule at the Centre and in the state respectively, Gandhi said.

"In this election, we will break this partnership. We will defeat the TRS and the AIMIM...We will ensure the defeat of the TRS in Telangana and Modi's BJP in Delhi (in the 2019 Lok Sabha election)," he said at his first rally of the day in Gadwal.

Gandhi also accused KCR of redesigning the Rs 10,000-crore Palamuru-Ranga Reddy Lift Irrigation Scheme into a Rs 60,000-crore project to benefit his friends and family, adding that the people of the state did not get water.

"Thousands of crores of rupees went to his contractor friends and his family," he alleged.

"KCR has been redesigning one project after another in the last five years and the people have given him a new name...Every child knows his new name. It is Khao Commission Rao," the Congress chief said.

When the state was formed five years ago, people had a dream of a new Telangana and a brighter future - of "neelu" (water), "nidhulu" (funds) and "niyamakalu" (appointments) and of a "Bangaru Telangana" (Golden Telangana) - he said.

"KCR became the chief minister and only one family ruled the state...Your dreams were shattered. KCR betrayed you on (the promise of) water," he said, adding that under the TRS rule, the dream of a "Golden Telangana" had led to a "golden kutumbam" (golden family).

The Congress is contesting the Telangana Assembly polls, leading a four-party People's Front, while the TRS and the BJP are going it alone.

The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Mounting a blistering attack on Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday accused the prime minister and the BJP of posing a threat to the country, claiming that they "spread hatred and anger".

Mounting a blistering attack on Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Monday accused the prime minister and the BJP of posing a threat to the country, claiming that they "spread hatred and anger". Reacting to Gandhi's remark, BJP spokesperson and Rajya Sabha member GVL Narasimha Rao said, "It is the Congress that has resorted to caste and communal politics. The BJP has spoken on issues of development and people's welfare. The Congress, in its desperation to come back to the electoral race, has been appealing to caste and communal considerations." Addressing rallies in poll-bound Telangana, Gandhi also lambasted caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, calling him "Khao Commission Rao" for alleged corruption and accusing his Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) of being the "B team" of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). "Wherever I go, I speak against Narendra Modi, because I know there is a threat to the country from Modi and the BJP. They spread hatred and anger," he said at a rally in Tandur. The Congress, he asserted, would stand up to it, continue to fight against it and never compromise. "...In 2019 (Lok Sabha polls), we will see to it that the BJP is defeated and Modi is removed," Gandhi said. Hitting out at Rao, who is popularly called KCR, he asked the TRS chief why he supported the BJP and wanted to become the "B team" of the saffron party. "You (KCR) have done so much of corruption that your name is changed. Today, your name KCR stands for 'Khao Commission Rao'. "Because of this, Modi ran Telangana through a remote control. The fact is that due to your (KCR) corruption, you are not able to stand up to Modi," Gandhi alleged. Rao feared Modi as he indulged in corruption, Gandhi claimed, speaking at a rally in Hyderabad in the evening. "I will tell you the reason. You listen to the speeches of KCRji. In the last five years, (he) did not hurt Narendra Modi, supported him in the Lok Sabha...KCR has indulged in corruption. Modiji has the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate. Because of corruption, KCRji fears Modi," he said. Telangana's "remote control" was in the hands of Modi, he added. The Congress chief said in every speech, the prime minister attacked him, made fun of him, talked about his family, but never criticised KCR, adding that the real name of KCR's party (TRS) was "T-RSS". The TRS and the Asaduddin Owaisi-led All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) were actually the "B" and "C" teams of the BJP, he alleged. Modi and the TRS had struck a "partnership" to ensure the continuation of the BJP and TRS rule at the Centre and in the state respectively, Gandhi said. "In this election, we will break this partnership. We will defeat the TRS and the AIMIM...We will ensure the defeat of the TRS in Telangana and Modi's BJP in Delhi (in the 2019 Lok Sabha election)," he said at his first rally of the day in Gadwal. Gandhi also accused KCR of redesigning the Rs 10,000-crore Palamuru-Ranga Reddy Lift Irrigation Scheme into a Rs 60,000-crore project to benefit his friends and family, adding that the people of the state did not get water. "Thousands of crores of rupees went to his contractor friends and his family," he alleged. "KCR has been redesigning one project after another in the last five years and the people have given him a new name...Every child knows his new name. It is Khao Commission Rao," the Congress chief said. When the state was formed five years ago, people had a dream of a new Telangana and a brighter future - of "neelu" (water), "nidhulu" (funds) and "niyamakalu" (appointments) and of a "Bangaru Telangana" (Golden Telangana) - he said. "KCR became the chief minister and only one family ruled the state...Your dreams were shattered. KCR betrayed you on (the promise of) water," he said, adding that under the TRS rule, the dream of a "Golden Telangana" had led to a "golden kutumbam" (golden family). The Congress is contesting the Telangana Assembly polls, leading a four-party People's Front, while the TRS and the BJP are going it alone. The 119-member Telangana Assembly will go to polls on December 7 and the results will be announced on December 11.

Modi, BJP posing threat to country, Rahul alleges in poll-bound Telangana

Blaming the previous Congress rules for bank defaults, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday alleged the defaulters used to carry the party's name as "taveej" (amulet) as a shield but his government has acted strongly against such people and even "big crorepatis" have been forced to pay up.

Modi alleged that banks were "looted" by "naamdaar" who used to make telephone calls to the lenders to sanction loans.

Addressing an election rally here, he said those shedding "crocodile tears" for farmers should come to Rajasthan "to see" whether lands of farmers were purchased at a throw away price or not by people allegedly close to the Congress party in Delhi.

"Had the farmers known about the future and potential of solar power park, would they have sold their lands," the prime minister said.

Talking about the 'amulet', Modi said it saved people who looted government money.

"Main aapko samjhana chahta hun. Unhone Congress ke naam ka taveej bana rakha tha. Jo log galat kaam karte hai, bura kaam karte hai, sarkaari khajaane se lootte hai, bankon se paise maar lete hai, unkon kuch karne ki jarurat nahin thi. Congress ka taveej bandhon to unkon ek raksha kawach mil jaata tha (I want to make you (people) understand. They had made an 'amulet' in the name of Congress, which saved the people doing wrong deeds, looted government funds, take huge bank loans. They had to do nothing but to tie Congress amulet which acted as a shield.)," he said.

The prime minister said the credit given to people by banks between 2006 and 2014, when Congress was in power at the Centre, was more than the money given to people since Independence.

"Telephone karke bankon ko loota gaya. Naamdaar ke phone jaate the aur bank se paise diye jaate the. (Banks were looted by making phone calls. Banks used to lend money after calls from 'naamdaar'," Modi said.

The prime minister said the BJP government, which came to power in 2014, enacted a law to recover money from defaulters. He said his government made stringent laws such as the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, under which Rs 3 lakh crore were recovered from loan defaulters.

"We brought big crorepatis on roads and recovered money," he said.

The opposition parties have been accusing the government of being soft on big corporates and of doing nothing to recover unpaid loans.

Modi also targeted the Congress for allegedly spreading lies.

"Those travelling with a rose on their shirt had knowledge about parks but not farming. Those who are not able to differentiate between mustard and sesame are giving lessons. Had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the first prime minister,farmers of the country would not have faced misery," Modi said.

He also talked about the Swaminathan Commission, saying the final volume of its report came in 2007 but UPA government did not act on its recommendations on the Minimum Support Price to farmers.

Citing contribution of the Bishnoi community, he said members of the community laid their lives to protect the environment and India received the accolade of 'Champions of Earth' due to their efforts.

Blaming the previous Congress rules for bank defaults, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday alleged the defaulters used to carry the party's name as "taveej" (amulet) as a shield but his government has acted strongly against such people and even "big crorepatis" have been forced to pay up.

Blaming the previous Congress rules for bank defaults, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday alleged the defaulters used to carry the party's name as "taveej" (amulet) as a shield but his government has acted strongly against such people and even "big crorepatis" have been forced to pay up. Modi alleged that banks were "looted" by "naamdaar" who used to make telephone calls to the lenders to sanction loans. Addressing an election rally here, he said those shedding "crocodile tears" for farmers should come to Rajasthan "to see" whether lands of farmers were purchased at a throw away price or not by people allegedly close to the Congress party in Delhi. "Had the farmers known about the future and potential of solar power park, would they have sold their lands," the prime minister said. Talking about the 'amulet', Modi said it saved people who looted government money. "Main aapko samjhana chahta hun. Unhone Congress ke naam ka taveej bana rakha tha. Jo log galat kaam karte hai, bura kaam karte hai, sarkaari khajaane se lootte hai, bankon se paise maar lete hai, unkon kuch karne ki jarurat nahin thi. Congress ka taveej bandhon to unkon ek raksha kawach mil jaata tha (I want to make you (people) understand. They had made an 'amulet' in the name of Congress, which saved the people doing wrong deeds, looted government funds, take huge bank loans. They had to do nothing but to tie Congress amulet which acted as a shield.)," he said. The prime minister said the credit given to people by banks between 2006 and 2014, when Congress was in power at the Centre, was more than the money given to people since Independence. "Telephone karke bankon ko loota gaya. Naamdaar ke phone jaate the aur bank se paise diye jaate the. (Banks were looted by making phone calls. Banks used to lend money after calls from 'naamdaar'," Modi said. The prime minister said the BJP government, which came to power in 2014, enacted a law to recover money from defaulters. He said his government made stringent laws such as the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, under which Rs 3 lakh crore were recovered from loan defaulters. "We brought big crorepatis on roads and recovered money," he said. The opposition parties have been accusing the government of being soft on big corporates and of doing nothing to recover unpaid loans. Modi also targeted the Congress for allegedly spreading lies. "Those travelling with a rose on their shirt had knowledge about parks but not farming. Those who are not able to differentiate between mustard and sesame are giving lessons. Had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the first prime minister,farmers of the country would not have faced misery," Modi said. He also talked about the Swaminathan Commission, saying the final volume of its report came in 2007 but UPA government did not act on its recommendations on the Minimum Support Price to farmers. Citing contribution of the Bishnoi community, he said members of the community laid their lives to protect the environment and India received the accolade of 'Champions of Earth' due to their efforts.

Loan defaulters used to carry Congress amulet as shield against law: Modi in Rajasthan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has told UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres the motivation for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/act-now-or-risk-disaster-world-told-at-un-climate-summit-181034">his "strong commitment" to climate action</a> is rooted in the ancient Hindu scriptures, the Vedas.

Modi and Guterres met last week on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where the two held discussions about climate change and India's support for the Paris Climate Agreement.&nbsp;

The UN chief thanked Modi for his commitment to increase India's nationally-determined contributions to the Paris Agreement. Guterres had also held discussions with Modi during his three-day visit to India this year coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary on October 2. During that visit, Guterres had presented the Indian leader with the United Nations Champions of the Earth Award for policy leadership for 2018.&nbsp;

"It's not only Christianity, I was speaking to Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi of India recently and asking him what was his motivation for his very strong commitment to climate action and he said it's in the Vedas, the founding books of Hinduism. I think this is felt in all religions,"Guterres said at a press conference in Poland Monday.&nbsp;

He was responding to a question on whether he thinks religions have a role to play in the field of climate change. The transcript of the Secretary General's joint press conference with Polish President Andrzej Duda was issued by the UN spokesperson's office here.

Guterres is in the Polish city Katowice for the high-level UN COP24 Climate Change Conference. The two-week 24th conference of the parties to the UN Climate Change Convention (UNFCCC) marks the deadline for the 197 parties that signed the Convention, to adopt guidelines for the implementation of the historic 2015 Paris Agreement.&nbsp;

In Paris, three years ago, countries collectively agreed to keep global temperature rises to no more than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and if possible, to limit the rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Now, in Poland, they have to agree on how they will achieve this collectively.&nbsp;

Guterres was asked the question in a reference to Pope Francis' views on climate change.&nbsp;

"I do believe that if one is a believer and one believes that the world is created by God, it must be terrible to see human beings destroying God's creation. So I think it's perfectly normal that a religion that believes in the work of the Creator is totally against the destruction of the work of the Creator that human beings are (carrying out at present). So I think it is perfectly normal that his Holiness the Pope, not only this Pope, it comes from the past, have a very positive position in relation to climate action," he said.&nbsp;

Pope Francis has in the past called for a "revolution" to combat climate change, saying the consensus was clear and "doomsday predictions can no longer be met with irony or disdain".&nbsp;

Kicking off the high-level event in Poland, along with several other high-level representatives, Guterres highlighted key messages for the thousands of representatives of the world's nations, non-profit organisations, UN agencies, and private sector companies gathered in Katowice.&nbsp;

The Secretary-General noted that climate change is already "a matter of life and death" for many people, nations and countries of the world, and that the science is telling us we need to move faster.&nbsp;

Citing various alarming UN reports including one on rising global CO2 emissions and another one on increasing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, he called on nations to pay attention to the science and step up their pace as well as their ambitions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has told UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres the motivation for his "strong commitment" to climate action is rooted in the ancient Hindu scriptures, the Vedas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has told UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres the motivation for his "strong commitment" to climate action is rooted in the ancient Hindu scriptures, the Vedas. Modi and Guterres met last week on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where the two held discussions about climate change and India's support for the Paris Climate Agreement. The UN chief thanked Modi for his commitment to increase India's nationally-determined contributions to the Paris Agreement. Guterres had also held discussions with Modi during his three-day visit to India this year coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary on October 2. During that visit, Guterres had presented the Indian leader with the United Nations Champions of the Earth Award for policy leadership for 2018. "It's not only Christianity, I was speaking to Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi of India recently and asking him what was his motivation for his very strong commitment to climate action and he said it's in the Vedas, the founding books of Hinduism. I think this is felt in all religions,"Guterres said at a press conference in Poland Monday. He was responding to a question on whether he thinks religions have a role to play in the field of climate change. The transcript of the Secretary General's joint press conference with Polish President Andrzej Duda was issued by the UN spokesperson's office here. Guterres is in the Polish city Katowice for the high-level UN COP24 Climate Change Conference. The two-week 24th conference of the parties to the UN Climate Change Convention (UNFCCC) marks the deadline for the 197 parties that signed the Convention, to adopt guidelines for the implementation of the historic 2015 Paris Agreement. In Paris, three years ago, countries collectively agreed to keep global temperature rises to no more than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and if possible, to limit the rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Now, in Poland, they have to agree on how they will achieve this collectively. Guterres was asked the question in a reference to Pope Francis' views on climate change. "I do believe that if one is a believer and one believes that the world is created by God, it must be terrible to see human beings destroying God's creation. So I think it's perfectly normal that a religion that believes in the work of the Creator is totally against the destruction of the work of the Creator that human beings are (carrying out at present). So I think it is perfectly normal that his Holiness the Pope, not only this Pope, it comes from the past, have a very positive position in relation to climate action," he said. Pope Francis has in the past called for a "revolution" to combat climate change, saying the consensus was clear and "doomsday predictions can no longer be met with irony or disdain". Kicking off the high-level event in Poland, along with several other high-level representatives, Guterres highlighted key messages for the thousands of representatives of the world's nations, non-profit organisations, UN agencies, and private sector companies gathered in Katowice. The Secretary-General noted that climate change is already "a matter of life and death" for many people, nations and countries of the world, and that the science is telling us we need to move faster. Citing various alarming UN reports including one on rising global CO2 emissions and another one on increasing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere, he called on nations to pay attention to the science and step up their pace as well as their ambitions.

My 'strong commitment' to climate action rooted in Vedas, Modi tells UN chief

Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-narendra-modi-journey-from-cm-to-pm-139976"> Narendra Modi</a> was once again the top newsmaker in India in the year 2018, according to the Yahoo Year in Review list.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/un-secretary-general-presents-pm-narendra-modi-champions-earth-award-169160">Modi </a>has featured at the top of the list for at least a couple of years now and is followed this year by Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Former Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra wrote his way into the list with third position after landmark verdicts on triple talaq and Article 377, among others, Yahoo said.

M J Akbar, who resigned as Minister of State for External Affairs after allegations of sexual harassment, also featured on the list at number 6, behind alleged economic fraudsters Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi.

The excitement surrounding Bollywood's biggest wedding ensured actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh were 'couple' newsmakers.

At under two years, Taimur Ali Khan was the youngest entrant to this list -- the son of Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan boasts a formidable following online.

Also joining the list was actress Priya Prakash Varrier, whose wink in the Malayalam film Oru Adaar Love "almost broke the Internet", the statement by Yahoo said.

"There was plenty of fake news swirling online in 2018. Did Modi really touch Owaisi's feet? (photoshopped!), Modi hires personal make-up artist for Rs 15 lakh a month (an old photo from when Madame Tussaud's took PM Modi's measurements) and Rahul Gandhi holds woman's hand on stage (taken before a large group lifted hands in solidarity at a Jan andolan rally)," the statement said listing out the top three fake news doing the rounds online during the year.

Year in Review (YIR) chronicles the top choices of Internet users in India, spotlighting the newsmakers, stories and topics that went viral and were trending online during the year, the Yahoo statement said.

It is based on users' search habits and a selection of what they read, recommended and shared most on Yahoo.

"Over the last decade, YIR has documented the growing empowerment of the country's online audience, seen in the expression and sharing of new ideas online. This year, the collective power of India's Internet users fuelled the watershed #MeTooIndia movement. India's #MeToo Survivors, who started a conversation with wide-reaching impact, are YIR's 2018 Personality of the year," it said.

The year saw several women taking to social media to share accounts of sexual harassment by men in positions of power. The movement crossed over to the mainstream, garnering huge support and mobilizing every section of the media, it said.

The Karnataka election -- one of the most important events on this year's political calendar -- was the Most Searched for Term in 2018. A HuffPost India investigation into the hacking of the Aadhaar software came in at No. 2 on this list, sparking a nation-wide debate and trending online, it noted. 
Scam-riddled Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi also bagged spots on the list of Most Searched for Terms in 2018.

RBI Governor Urjit Patel came in at the top of 2018's Finance Newsmakers, holding his own against the government. India's richest man and Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani -- whose wealth reportedly increased by Rs 300 crore per day in 2018 -- came in second on this list. Brother Anil Ambani, Reliance Group Chairman, also features on the list for the Rafale deal controversy, Yahoo said.

"Users bid farewell to Bollywood actress Sridevi with an outpouring of grief and love online, making her one of the Most Searched for Female Celebrities in 2018. They also rooted for Sonali Bendre, who shared her fight against cancer online with #switchonthesunshine, putting her on the list," it said.

Sunny Leone was the Most Searched Female Celebrity yet again, with Priya Prakash Varrier coming in close to the top.

"Salman Khan proved he was the 'biggest boss,' as the Most Searched Male Celebrity of 2018," it said adding that American singer Nick Jonas was a close second as he zoomed up the list with his engagement to actress Priyanka Chopra.

"While staying loyal to Ranveer-Deepika, users also brought in newbies like actor Janhvi Kapoor, and Sara Ali Khan, besides Sprinter Hima Das into India's Top 10 heartthrobs of 2018," Yahoo said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was once again the top newsmaker in India in the year 2018, according to the Yahoo Year in Review list. Modi has featured at the top of the list for at least a couple of years now and is followed this year by Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was once again the top newsmaker in India in the year 2018, according to the Yahoo Year in Review list. Modi has featured at the top of the list for at least a couple of years now and is followed this year by Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Former Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra wrote his way into the list with third position after landmark verdicts on triple talaq and Article 377, among others, Yahoo said. M J Akbar, who resigned as Minister of State for External Affairs after allegations of sexual harassment, also featured on the list at number 6, behind alleged economic fraudsters Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi. The excitement surrounding Bollywood's biggest wedding ensured actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh were 'couple' newsmakers. At under two years, Taimur Ali Khan was the youngest entrant to this list -- the son of Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan boasts a formidable following online. Also joining the list was actress Priya Prakash Varrier, whose wink in the Malayalam film Oru Adaar Love "almost broke the Internet", the statement by Yahoo said. "There was plenty of fake news swirling online in 2018. Did Modi really touch Owaisi's feet? (photoshopped!), Modi hires personal make-up artist for Rs 15 lakh a month (an old photo from when Madame Tussaud's took PM Modi's measurements) and Rahul Gandhi holds woman's hand on stage (taken before a large group lifted hands in solidarity at a Jan andolan rally)," the statement said listing out the top three fake news doing the rounds online during the year. Year in Review (YIR) chronicles the top choices of Internet users in India, spotlighting the newsmakers, stories and topics that went viral and were trending online during the year, the Yahoo statement said. It is based on users' search habits and a selection of what they read, recommended and shared most on Yahoo. "Over the last decade, YIR has documented the growing empowerment of the country's online audience, seen in the expression and sharing of new ideas online. This year, the collective power of India's Internet users fuelled the watershed #MeTooIndia movement. India's #MeToo Survivors, who started a conversation with wide-reaching impact, are YIR's 2018 Personality of the year," it said. The year saw several women taking to social media to share accounts of sexual harassment by men in positions of power. The movement crossed over to the mainstream, garnering huge support and mobilizing every section of the media, it said. The Karnataka election -- one of the most important events on this year's political calendar -- was the Most Searched for Term in 2018. A HuffPost India investigation into the hacking of the Aadhaar software came in at No. 2 on this list, sparking a nation-wide debate and trending online, it noted. Scam-riddled Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi also bagged spots on the list of Most Searched for Terms in 2018. RBI Governor Urjit Patel came in at the top of 2018's Finance Newsmakers, holding his own against the government. India's richest man and Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani -- whose wealth reportedly increased by Rs 300 crore per day in 2018 -- came in second on this list. Brother Anil Ambani, Reliance Group Chairman, also features on the list for the Rafale deal controversy, Yahoo said. "Users bid farewell to Bollywood actress Sridevi with an outpouring of grief and love online, making her one of the Most Searched for Female Celebrities in 2018. They also rooted for Sonali Bendre, who shared her fight against cancer online with #switchonthesunshine, putting her on the list," it said. Sunny Leone was the Most Searched Female Celebrity yet again, with Priya Prakash Varrier coming in close to the top. "Salman Khan proved he was the 'biggest boss,' as the Most Searched Male Celebrity of 2018," it said adding that American singer Nick Jonas was a close second as he zoomed up the list with his engagement to actress Priyanka Chopra. "While staying loyal to Ranveer-Deepika, users also brought in newbies like actor Janhvi Kapoor, and Sara Ali Khan, besides Sprinter Hima Das into India's Top 10 heartthrobs of 2018," Yahoo said.

PM Modi tops list of newsmaker personalities on Yahoo 2018 'year in review'

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims.

The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said.

"The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news.

"The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only," he said.

On November 28, Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone of the Kartarpur corridor.

On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur.

Khan said that his government and the army wanted a "civilised relationship" with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step.

Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people.

Pakistan assured that it will keep improving the Kartarpur corridor and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary.

The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev.

The corridor is expected to be completed within six months.&nbsp;

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims. The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community.

Pakistan has established an immigration centre at the Kartarpur border following the groundbreaking of the landmark corridor for Sikh pilgrims. The corridor will connect Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev's final resting place in Pakistan's Kartarpur to the Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Punjab's Gurdaspur district in India, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the Sikh community. Since the border crossing could be an easy target for "terrorists, human traffickers and drug dealers", a strong mechanism was required to keep the situation under control on both sides of the border, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Deputy Director (Punjab) Mufakhar Adeel said. "The FIA has set up an immigration office at Kartarpur border in Narowal (some 120 kms from Lahore) in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor," Adeel told Dawn news. "The FIA officers will play the role of boarding officers and check the documents of Sikh pilgrims and identify them through biometric technology. Sikh pilgrims having visas will be allowed to enter the city while those with permits will be given access to Gurudwara Darbar Sahib only," he said. On November 28, Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone of the Kartarpur corridor. On November 26, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh laid the foundation stone for the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in Gurdaspur. Khan said that his government and the army wanted a "civilised relationship" with India, declaring that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step. Khan cited examples of France and Germany which fought many wars but eventually came closer for the welfare of their people. Pakistan assured that it will keep improving the Kartarpur corridor and provide maximum facilities to the pilgrims when they visit in November, 2019 to celebrate Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary. The much-awaited corridor will connect Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district and facilitate visa-free movement of Indian Sikh pilgrims, who will have to just obtain a permit to visit Kartarpur Sahib, which was established in 1522 by Guru Nanak Dev. The corridor is expected to be completed within six months.

Pakistan opens immigration centre at Kartarpur border

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday escalated his attack on the Congress party, which he said, is "a university for spreading lies and falsehood."

"The Congress party has become a university for spreading lies and falsehood. When anyone gets admission to do PhD and those who are more proficient in speaking lies get higher marks, they are given a new position and a degree," the Prime Minister said while addressing an election rally here.

Asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will retain power in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Modi said the Congress party was highly mistaken if they believed that they would win the state Assembly polls "on the basis of lies."

"They were thrown out from other states and they will also face the same fate here," the Prime Minister said. He added that the Congress does not believe in the politics of progress and development, and only concentrates on professing caste-based politics.

Sharpening his attack on Congress president Rahul Gandhi, who had accused him of not knowing anything about Hinduism religion, Prime Minister Modi said, "Now, this 'naamdaar' (Rahul) is saying that I don't have knowledge on Hinduism. Will this topic even determine the voting process in Rajasthan?"

"Hinduism and Hindutva are ancient ideologies that are so rich that I can never know the entire thing. Many learned men and intellectuals also don't claim that they know the entire thing. However, the Congress seems to know what the greatest intellectuals don't," he added.

Taking on the Congress for not prioritising cleanliness drives in the country when they were in power at the Centre, Prime Minister Modi asserted that the party never spoke on the topic before in the last 70 years.

Highlighting the works done by BJP government in Rajasthan under the 'Swachch Bharat Abhiyan', Prime Minister Modi said, "I started the Swachch Bharat Abhiyan, which not only cleaned the country but also generated employment. When I came to power, I didn't promise to construct hotels. Instead, I promised to construct toilets. In Rajasthan alone, 80 lakh toilets have been constructed so far."

Lauding the Bishnoi community in Jodhpur for laying down their lives for the protection of the environment, Prime Minister Modi said, "When the people didn't know about climate change ages back, it was this community who really cared for our environment. It is because of them that India today has won the 'Champion of the Earth' award." He also informed that Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje approved 7000 megawatts of solar energy project in the state.

Prime Minister Modi went on to say that while the Congress harboured loan defaulters, the BJP made stringent laws under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, under which Rs 3 lakh crore have been recovered.

The 200-member Rajasthan Assembly is scheduled to go to polls on December 7. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday escalated his attack on the Congress party, which he said, is "a university for spreading lies and falsehood." "The Congress party has become a university for spreading lies and falsehood.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday escalated his attack on the Congress party, which he said, is "a university for spreading lies and falsehood." "The Congress party has become a university for spreading lies and falsehood. When anyone gets admission to do PhD and those who are more proficient in speaking lies get higher marks, they are given a new position and a degree," the Prime Minister said while addressing an election rally here. Asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will retain power in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Modi said the Congress party was highly mistaken if they believed that they would win the state Assembly polls "on the basis of lies." "They were thrown out from other states and they will also face the same fate here," the Prime Minister said. He added that the Congress does not believe in the politics of progress and development, and only concentrates on professing caste-based politics. Sharpening his attack on Congress president Rahul Gandhi, who had accused him of not knowing anything about Hinduism religion, Prime Minister Modi said, "Now, this 'naamdaar' (Rahul) is saying that I don't have knowledge on Hinduism. Will this topic even determine the voting process in Rajasthan?" "Hinduism and Hindutva are ancient ideologies that are so rich that I can never know the entire thing. Many learned men and intellectuals also don't claim that they know the entire thing. However, the Congress seems to know what the greatest intellectuals don't," he added. Taking on the Congress for not prioritising cleanliness drives in the country when they were in power at the Centre, Prime Minister Modi asserted that the party never spoke on the topic before in the last 70 years. Highlighting the works done by BJP government in Rajasthan under the 'Swachch Bharat Abhiyan', Prime Minister Modi said, "I started the Swachch Bharat Abhiyan, which not only cleaned the country but also generated employment. When I came to power, I didn't promise to construct hotels. Instead, I promised to construct toilets. In Rajasthan alone, 80 lakh toilets have been constructed so far." Lauding the Bishnoi community in Jodhpur for laying down their lives for the protection of the environment, Prime Minister Modi said, "When the people didn't know about climate change ages back, it was this community who really cared for our environment. It is because of them that India today has won the 'Champion of the Earth' award." He also informed that Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje approved 7000 megawatts of solar energy project in the state. Prime Minister Modi went on to say that while the Congress harboured loan defaulters, the BJP made stringent laws under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, under which Rs 3 lakh crore have been recovered. The 200-member Rajasthan Assembly is scheduled to go to polls on December 7. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Congress is university for spreading lies and falsehood: PM Narendra Modi

A Maharashtra farmer has sent the Rs 1,064 he got after selling his year's produce of 750 kgs of onion to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

The farmer added that he had to pay an additional Rs 54 for the money order he sent Modi.&nbsp;

Sanjay Sathe is a resident of Niphad tehsil in Maharashtra's Nashik district.&nbsp;

Speaking to PTI, Sathe said, “I produced 750 kg of onion in this season but was offered a rate of Rs 1 per kg at Niphad wholesale market last week.

“Finally I could negotiate a deal for Rs 1.40 per kg and received Rs 1,064 for 750 kg," he added.&nbsp;

“<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-from-across-india-converging-in-delhi-for-kisan-march-180178">It was painful to see such paltry returns on four months of toil</a>. Hence I have donated Rs 1,064 to Disaster Relief Fund of the PMO as a protest. I had to pay additional Rs 54 for sending it by money order,” Sathe said.

“I do not represent any political party. But I am angry because of the government’s apathy towards our woes,” Sathe added.

Nashik district in north Maharashtra accounts for 50 per cent of onion production in India.

PTI added that Sathe had been among the handful of "progressive farmers" selected by the union agriculture ministry to meet with then US president Barack Obama when he visited India in 2010.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

A Maharashtra farmer has sent the Rs 1,064 he got after selling his year's produce of 750 kgs of onion to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The farmer added that he had to pay an additional Rs 54 for the money order he sent Modi.

A Maharashtra farmer has sent the Rs 1,064 he got after selling his year's produce of 750 kgs of onion to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The farmer added that he had to pay an additional Rs 54 for the money order he sent Modi. Sanjay Sathe is a resident of Niphad tehsil in Maharashtra's Nashik district. Speaking to PTI, Sathe said, “I produced 750 kg of onion in this season but was offered a rate of Rs 1 per kg at Niphad wholesale market last week. “Finally I could negotiate a deal for Rs 1.40 per kg and received Rs 1,064 for 750 kg," he added. “It was painful to see such paltry returns on four months of toil. Hence I have donated Rs 1,064 to Disaster Relief Fund of the PMO as a protest. I had to pay additional Rs 54 for sending it by money order,” Sathe said. “I do not represent any political party. But I am angry because of the government’s apathy towards our woes,” Sathe added. Nashik district in north Maharashtra accounts for 50 per cent of onion production in India. PTI added that Sathe had been among the handful of "progressive farmers" selected by the union agriculture ministry to meet with then US president Barack Obama when he visited India in 2010. (With inputs from PTI)

Farmer gets Rs 1,064 for 750 kg of onions, sends money to Modi

In a big announcement from the 13th G20 summit in Argentina's&nbsp;Buenos Aires, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India will host the&nbsp;G20 Summit in 2022.

India will be hosting the summit in the 75th Independence anniversary year.

Speaking at the G20 summit, PM Modi said, "It's India's 75th Independence Day in 2022 and we had requested Italy if we can get '22 instead of '21 (for hosting G20 summit). They accepted our request, others accepted it too. I am grateful and I invite leadership from across the world to come to India in 2022".

Italy and India swapped year for hosting G20 summit. Italy will be hosting G20 Summit in 2021.

Italian PM Giuseppe Conte said it was "very important for India to celebrate its 75th anniversary of Independence with our presence and therefore I decide to accept the swap".

In Asia, South Korea hosted G20 in 2010, followed by Turkey in 2015 and China in 2016. Next year the summit&nbsp;will take place in Japan followed by Saudi Arabia.

This year's summit, the 13th G20 summit, was hosted by Argentina. This was the first time that the summit had taken place in a country of&nbsp;South American continent.&nbsp;

In a big announcement from the 13th G20 summit in Argentina's Buenos Aires, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India will host the G20 Summit in 2022. India will be hosting the summit in the 75th Independence anniversary year.

In a big announcement from the 13th G20 summit in Argentina's Buenos Aires, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India will host the G20 Summit in 2022. India will be hosting the summit in the 75th Independence anniversary year. Speaking at the G20 summit, PM Modi said, "It's India's 75th Independence Day in 2022 and we had requested Italy if we can get '22 instead of '21 (for hosting G20 summit). They accepted our request, others accepted it too. I am grateful and I invite leadership from across the world to come to India in 2022". Italy and India swapped year for hosting G20 summit. Italy will be hosting G20 Summit in 2021. Italian PM Giuseppe Conte said it was "very important for India to celebrate its 75th anniversary of Independence with our presence and therefore I decide to accept the swap". In Asia, South Korea hosted G20 in 2010, followed by Turkey in 2015 and China in 2016. Next year the summit will take place in Japan followed by Saudi Arabia. This year's summit, the 13th G20 summit, was hosted by Argentina. This was the first time that the summit had taken place in a country of South American continent.

India to host G20 summit in 2022, PM Modi announces in Argentina

Going beyond the slur used by Congress President Rahul Gandhi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Punjab minister Navjot Sidhu Saturday said even the ''watchman’s dog''&nbsp;was into stealing.

Addressing an election rally at Khairthal in Alwar district, Sidhu alleged corruption in the Modi government’s deal with France to purchase 36 Rafale military aircraft, a charge repeatedly denied by the Centre.

He claimed the plane worth Rs 500 crore was being bought for Rs 1,600 crore.

The crowd chanted, ''chowkidar chor hai (the watchman is a thief).''

The slogan was given by Gandhi who had earlier mocked Modi’s claim that he will act like ''watchman'' against graft in the country.

''Even the watchman’s dog is involved,'' Sidhu then said. He claimed the BJP government’s 'Make in India' slogan had not yielded results, saying the government had a deal on Rafale with France and on the bullet train with Japan.

He claimed the Sardar Patel statue recently installed in Gujarat was “bought from China”.

''Will the people of the country fry pakodas?'' he said. Sidhu said he will quit politics if his allegations are proved false.

''You have broken the back of farmers. You do not belong to the poor farmers but to Ambani and Adani. You have become puppet of the industrialists,'' Sidhu charged, targeting Modi.

He also lashed out at Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. ''The maharani is sitting in the fort and ruling the state,'' he said.

He said women are not safe in the state which records a high number of rapes.

Assembly polls will be held in Rajasthan on December 7.

Going beyond the slur used by Congress President Rahul Gandhi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Punjab minister Navjot Sidhu Saturday said even the ''watchman’s dog'' was into stealing.

Going beyond the slur used by Congress President Rahul Gandhi against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Punjab minister Navjot Sidhu Saturday said even the ''watchman’s dog'' was into stealing. Addressing an election rally at Khairthal in Alwar district, Sidhu alleged corruption in the Modi government’s deal with France to purchase 36 Rafale military aircraft, a charge repeatedly denied by the Centre. He claimed the plane worth Rs 500 crore was being bought for Rs 1,600 crore. The crowd chanted, ''chowkidar chor hai (the watchman is a thief).'' The slogan was given by Gandhi who had earlier mocked Modi’s claim that he will act like ''watchman'' against graft in the country. ''Even the watchman’s dog is involved,'' Sidhu then said. He claimed the BJP government’s 'Make in India' slogan had not yielded results, saying the government had a deal on Rafale with France and on the bullet train with Japan. He claimed the Sardar Patel statue recently installed in Gujarat was “bought from China”. ''Will the people of the country fry pakodas?'' he said. Sidhu said he will quit politics if his allegations are proved false. ''You have broken the back of farmers. You do not belong to the poor farmers but to Ambani and Adani. You have become puppet of the industrialists,'' Sidhu charged, targeting Modi. He also lashed out at Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. ''The maharani is sitting in the fort and ruling the state,'' he said. He said women are not safe in the state which records a high number of rapes. Assembly polls will be held in Rajasthan on December 7.

Navjot Singh Sidhu repeats thief slur against PM Modi

By Akash Rai

On the event of 'Yoga for peace' in Argentina, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit,&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/yoga-connecting-india-argentina-pm-modi-180331">described yoga as India's gift to the world</a>.

“It is difficult to find a better name than this for a yoga program. Yoga helps us acquire better mental and physical health. It gives strength to our body and peace to our mind,”&nbsp;said PM Modi.

PM Modi expressed his affection towards yoga, adding that, “When there will be peace in a person's mind, there will be peace in family, society, country and the world. Yoga is India's gift to the world for health, wellness and peace."

In his speech, the Prime Minister further added, "the meaning of yoga is to add, it connects us with wellness, connects to happiness. Today, the distance of thousands of kilometers between India and Argentina is connecting our people, We are locking ourselves in a relation.”

It is well known that PM Modi is one of the biggest supporters&nbsp;and advertisers of yoga all across the world. His constant effort got the United Nations declare June 21 as the International Yoga Day, a move that popularised the ancient art across the world, highlighting its significance in maintaining health and peace of mind.

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The campaign of International Yoga Day was crafted India's Permanent Representative Asoke Mukherji who introduced the draft resolution in UNGA.&nbsp;

On December 11, 2014, the draft text received broad support from 177 Member States who sponsored the text, which was adopted without a vote. This initiative found support from many global leaders. A total of 177 nations co-sponsored the resolution, the highest number of co-sponsors ever for any UNGA resolution of such nature.

The ministry of AYUSH is constantly working toward taking the benefits of yoga to the people of country.

&nbsp;

By Akash Rai On the event of 'Yoga for peace' in Argentina, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described yoga as India's gift to the world.

By Akash Rai On the event of 'Yoga for peace' in Argentina, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described yoga as India's gift to the world. “It is difficult to find a better name than this for a yoga program. Yoga helps us acquire better mental and physical health. It gives strength to our body and peace to our mind,” said PM Modi. PM Modi expressed his affection towards yoga, adding that, “When there will be peace in a person's mind, there will be peace in family, society, country and the world. Yoga is India's gift to the world for health, wellness and peace." In his speech, the Prime Minister further added, "the meaning of yoga is to add, it connects us with wellness, connects to happiness. Today, the distance of thousands of kilometers between India and Argentina is connecting our people, We are locking ourselves in a relation.” It is well known that PM Modi is one of the biggest supporters and advertisers of yoga all across the world. His constant effort got the United Nations declare June 21 as the International Yoga Day, a move that popularised the ancient art across the world, highlighting its significance in maintaining health and peace of mind. When there will be peace in a person's mind there will be peace in family, society, country and the world. Yoga is India's gift to the world for health, wellness and peace: PM Modi at "Yoga For Peace" event in Buenos Aires, Argentina pic.twitter.com/K33uDKKxjf — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2018 × The campaign of International Yoga Day was crafted India's Permanent Representative Asoke Mukherji who introduced the draft resolution in UNGA. On December 11, 2014, the draft text received broad support from 177 Member States who sponsored the text, which was adopted without a vote. This initiative found support from many global leaders. A total of 177 nations co-sponsored the resolution, the highest number of co-sponsors ever for any UNGA resolution of such nature. The ministry of AYUSH is constantly working toward taking the benefits of yoga to the people of country.

Yoga is India's gift to world: PM Modi in Argentina

The BJP Friday alleged that Robert Vadra had put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for revocation of an Income Tax department order penalising a company that gave a loan to another entity to buy his land in Rajasthan.

Dubbing Vadra a "tained son-in-law", BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra claimed that in 2010, Vadra's Skylight Hospitality Pvt Ltd had bought 70 hectares of land for nearly Rs 70 lakh and sold it to another entity, Allegeny Finlease Pvt Ltd, in 2012 for Rs 5.15 crore, "seven times the original cost".

Bhushan Power and Steel Limited (BSPL) gave an unsecured loan of Rs 5.64 crore to Allegeny Finlease for buying the same land, he claimed.

During the same time, BSPL had got a tax notice that cited anomalies in its returns from 2004-2005 to 2011-12, and was asked to pay Rs 500 crore for the difference, Patra claimed.

"BSPL wrote to the Settlement Commission of the IT (Income Tax) department appealing against the order, which said the company has to pay Rs 500 crore. The commission also granted no immunity to BSPL against prosecution and penalty," the BJP spokesperson told reporters here.

The Settlement Commission reconstituted a bench that rescinded the earlier order and had asked the company to pay Rs 500 crore, he claimed.&nbsp;

"As Bhushan Steel had given money for buying a plot of land from Robert Vadra, he put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to ask the Income Tax department to waive the penalty and save BSPL from punishment. It is a clear case of corruption," Patra said.&nbsp;

"This is case of quid pro quo between Skylight Hospitality, Allegeny Finlease and Bhushan Steel," Patra said, alleging that unaccounted money has been by misusing the powers.&nbsp;

Patra also targeted former prime minister Manmohan Singh and dubbed him a "puppet PM" for overlooking the "corruption" during his time.

He also asked, "How much did the Gandhis benefit (from this deal)?"

Targeting Vadra, the BJP leader said his modus operandi is to buy land at a cheaper price, change the utility of the land and then sell it at a rate several times the original cost.

When asked what his party did as it was in power both in Rajasthan as well as the Centre, Patra said, the BJP governments investigated the case.&nbsp;

"We came to power in 2013-2014. We investigated it. The whole ball started moving since 2015. In early 2015, we had an FIR registered in Rajasthan against the Bikaner land allotment of Mr Robert Vadra.&nbsp;

"Thereafter, the whole thing is moving smoothly according to the law. The ED (Enforcement Directorate) had talked about the whole thing in 2016. In 2017, notices were issued and people were arrested in 2017. In 2018, the settlement commission issue had been taken up and yet again you see how the ED is moving ahead," Patra said.&nbsp;

The ED has summoned Vadra in connection with its money laundering probe in the land scam case in Rajasthan's Bikaner city, agency officials said Friday.&nbsp;

The BJP Friday alleged that Robert Vadra had put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for revocation of an Income Tax department order penalising a company that gave a loan to another entity to buy his land in Rajasthan.

The BJP Friday alleged that Robert Vadra had put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for revocation of an Income Tax department order penalising a company that gave a loan to another entity to buy his land in Rajasthan. Dubbing Vadra a "tained son-in-law", BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra claimed that in 2010, Vadra's Skylight Hospitality Pvt Ltd had bought 70 hectares of land for nearly Rs 70 lakh and sold it to another entity, Allegeny Finlease Pvt Ltd, in 2012 for Rs 5.15 crore, "seven times the original cost". Bhushan Power and Steel Limited (BSPL) gave an unsecured loan of Rs 5.64 crore to Allegeny Finlease for buying the same land, he claimed. During the same time, BSPL had got a tax notice that cited anomalies in its returns from 2004-2005 to 2011-12, and was asked to pay Rs 500 crore for the difference, Patra claimed. "BSPL wrote to the Settlement Commission of the IT (Income Tax) department appealing against the order, which said the company has to pay Rs 500 crore. The commission also granted no immunity to BSPL against prosecution and penalty," the BJP spokesperson told reporters here. The Settlement Commission reconstituted a bench that rescinded the earlier order and had asked the company to pay Rs 500 crore, he claimed. "As Bhushan Steel had given money for buying a plot of land from Robert Vadra, he put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to ask the Income Tax department to waive the penalty and save BSPL from punishment. It is a clear case of corruption," Patra said. "This is case of quid pro quo between Skylight Hospitality, Allegeny Finlease and Bhushan Steel," Patra said, alleging that unaccounted money has been by misusing the powers. Patra also targeted former prime minister Manmohan Singh and dubbed him a "puppet PM" for overlooking the "corruption" during his time. He also asked, "How much did the Gandhis benefit (from this deal)?" Targeting Vadra, the BJP leader said his modus operandi is to buy land at a cheaper price, change the utility of the land and then sell it at a rate several times the original cost. When asked what his party did as it was in power both in Rajasthan as well as the Centre, Patra said, the BJP governments investigated the case. "We came to power in 2013-2014. We investigated it. The whole ball started moving since 2015. In early 2015, we had an FIR registered in Rajasthan against the Bikaner land allotment of Mr Robert Vadra. "Thereafter, the whole thing is moving smoothly according to the law. The ED (Enforcement Directorate) had talked about the whole thing in 2016. In 2017, notices were issued and people were arrested in 2017. In 2018, the settlement commission issue had been taken up and yet again you see how the ED is moving ahead," Patra said. The ED has summoned Vadra in connection with its money laundering probe in the land scam case in Rajasthan's Bikaner city, agency officials said Friday.

Vadra put pressure on Rahul, Sonia to revoke I-T order to benefit him: BJP

Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi on the first day of G20 Summit in Argentina took part in BRICS informal meet<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-pm-modi-discusses-global-climate-change-with-un-secretary-general-180330"> and met </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/g20-pm-modi-invites-president-xi-to-india-for-next-informal-summit-180529">Chinese&nbsp;President Xi Jinping</a>.

At the BRICS informal meet, which has become a tradition on the sidelines of G20, PM Modi raised the issue of terror and radicalisation. He said, "Terrorism and radicalism are a threat to the world, those who commit financial crimes are also a big threat. We have to work together against black money."

India has already been raising the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating&nbsp;from Pakistan from the various global forum.&nbsp;

Lauding <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/yoga-connecting-india-argentina-pm-modi-180331">BRICS as a grouping</a>, PM said, "We have to talk in one voice for the interest of developing nations in the United Nations and other multilateral organisations. This is the reason we have come together for BRICS".

Last year, informal BRICS meet on the sidelines of 12th G20 summit in Hamburg helped India and China break the ice on the Doklam issue. Indian PM and Chinese president had met on the sidelines of that BRICS informal meet.

Later, PM Modi met the&nbsp;Chinese president - the fourth meeting between the two leaders in this&nbsp;year. PM said,&nbsp;"This has been a good year for bilateral ties".&nbsp;

Recalling the Wuhan informal summit, PM Modi said, "it was&nbsp;a&nbsp;milestone and&nbsp;engagement&nbsp;between the two countries got new&nbsp;momentum".

He also invited Chinese&nbsp;President Xi Jinping to India for the 2019 informal meet.&nbsp;

Recalling his meet with Chinese&nbsp;president on the sidelines of SCO summit in China and BRICS summit in South Africa, PM hoped the momentum in ties continued.

Later briefing the media, foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "fourth meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi made progress on the economic side. On the political side as well both leaders&nbsp;felt that there has been a&nbsp;progress on border management, counter-terrorism agenda and people to people issues".

China is willing to exchange more on the hydrological issue. Remember India was alerted on Brahmaputra flow issue earlier this year. Both sides are also training Afghan diplomats as part of a first joint project between India and China agreed during the Wuhan summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the first day of G20 Summit in Argentina took part in BRICS informal meet and met Chinese President Xi Jinping. At the BRICS informal meet, which has become a tradition on the sidelines of G20, PM Modi raised the issue of terror and radicalisation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the first day of G20 Summit in Argentina took part in BRICS informal meet and met Chinese President Xi Jinping. At the BRICS informal meet, which has become a tradition on the sidelines of G20, PM Modi raised the issue of terror and radicalisation. He said, "Terrorism and radicalism are a threat to the world, those who commit financial crimes are also a big threat. We have to work together against black money." India has already been raising the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan from the various global forum. Lauding BRICS as a grouping, PM said, "We have to talk in one voice for the interest of developing nations in the United Nations and other multilateral organisations. This is the reason we have come together for BRICS". Last year, informal BRICS meet on the sidelines of 12th G20 summit in Hamburg helped India and China break the ice on the Doklam issue. Indian PM and Chinese president had met on the sidelines of that BRICS informal meet. Later, PM Modi met the Chinese president - the fourth meeting between the two leaders in this year. PM said, "This has been a good year for bilateral ties". Recalling the Wuhan informal summit, PM Modi said, "it was a milestone and engagement between the two countries got new momentum". He also invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to India for the 2019 informal meet. Recalling his meet with Chinese president on the sidelines of SCO summit in China and BRICS summit in South Africa, PM hoped the momentum in ties continued. Later briefing the media, foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "fourth meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi made progress on the economic side. On the political side as well both leaders felt that there has been a progress on border management, counter-terrorism agenda and people to people issues". China is willing to exchange more on the hydrological issue. Remember India was alerted on Brahmaputra flow issue earlier this year. Both sides are also training Afghan diplomats as part of a first joint project between India and China agreed during the Wuhan summit.

PM Modi meets President Xi, takes part in BRICS meet as G20 summit begins

G20 Summit: World leaders arrive for G20 Summit

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-argentina-from-nov-28-dec-2-for-g20-summit-to-meet-chinese-president-twice-179827">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> reached Buenos Aires, Argentina to attend the G20 summit.

PM Modi will have a trilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires on November 30 and December 1.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaches Buenos Aires, Argentina to attend the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit</a>. <a href="https://t.co/9YhletLRay">pic.twitter.com/9YhletLRay</a>
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Modi will also highlight the risks posed by oil price volatility and raise the issue of combating terror financing and money laundering, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said.

One of the issues that will be discussed is strengthening of the WTO, he told reporters.

Prime Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet twice during the G20 summit in Argentina, said a foreign ministry official on November 27 as the two Asian powerhouses seek warmer ties.

Modi will also meet United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Mauricio Macri, the President of Argentina; Chilean President Sebastian Pinera, German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Buenos Aires, Argentina to attend the G20 summit. PM Modi will have a trilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires on November 30 and December 1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Buenos Aires, Argentina to attend the G20 summit. PM Modi will have a trilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires on November 30 and December 1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaches Buenos Aires, Argentina to attend the #G20Summit. pic.twitter.com/9YhletLRay — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2018 × Modi will also highlight the risks posed by oil price volatility and raise the issue of combating terror financing and money laundering, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said. One of the issues that will be discussed is strengthening of the WTO, he told reporters. Prime Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet twice during the G20 summit in Argentina, said a foreign ministry official on November 27 as the two Asian powerhouses seek warmer ties. Modi will also meet United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Mauricio Macri, the President of Argentina; Chilean President Sebastian Pinera, German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

PM Modi arrives at Argentina ahead of G20 summit

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao of "diluting the Tribal Rights Act to the detriment of forest dwellers.

Addressing an election meeting at Bhoopalpally in the tribal belt of Telangana, he promised reservations in government jobs and admissions to state-run educational institutions for Scheduled Tribe candidates proportionate to their population in the state.

"Prime Minister Modi weakened Adivasi Bill (Tribal Bill) at the centre and KCR diluted it at the state. As soon as we form our government in Telangana we will ensure that you (tribals) get back your land. We have mentioned this in our manifesto also.

"We will give reservations too that will be proportionate to your population," Gandhi told the rally.

The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act was passed in 2006 when the UPA was in power. It is variously referred to as Forest Rights Act, Tribal Rights Act, Tribal Bill, and Tribal Land Act. The law concerns the rights of forest-dwelling communities.

The opposition has been alleging that the Modi dispensation diluted various provisions of the law including the condition of "free informed consent" from gram sabhas for any government plans to remove tribals from forests and for resettlement or rehabilitation packages. It is alleged that the law was diluted to favour mining companies and industrialists.

Gandhi said the previous UPA government brought the law which gave immense benefits to tribals.

The Telangana government has been accused of diluting the Act by outlawing traditional methods of forest land cultivation.

The Congress president said tribals could not reap full benefit of the law in Telangana because of dilution of its provisions.

Gandhi assured that contract workers of Singareni Collieries would be regularised if the Congress-led alliance came to power in Telangana and the cases of employees who lost their jobs for various reasons would be sympathetically examined.

He also slammed the prime minister for his "habit" of privatising public sector undertakings.

Punning on chief minister KCR's initials, Gandhi called him "Khao Commission Rao" who promised that he would "redesign" the state but instead redesigned irrigation projects, which resulted in cost escalation and burdened the people, only to benefit members of his family and contractors.

Taking a jibe at the TRS chief's comment that he will go home and take rest if he loses the polls, Gandhi said, "KCR will definitely take rest in a Rs 300 crore palatial bungalow after the elections. You take rest and the Congress party will fulfil the aspirations and dreams of Telangana with the help of its people."

Addressing another rally at Armoor, he said, if the Congress came to power at the Centre, it would simplify the GST and sympathetically examine taxes on the beedi industry.

He also promised that a corpus fund of Rs 500 crore would be raised to help migrant workers in the Persian Gulf.

Targeting the prime minister over his signature mass outreach programme 'Mann Ki Baat' on All India Radio, Gandhi said, "Modi ji tells you his 'Mann ki Baat' (speaks his mind) every month. But we will listen to your (people's) Mann Ki Baat and run Telangana according to your wishes."

The Congress president said while Modi and KCR always kept the doors of banks open for the rich, the Congress-led government in Telangana will waive agricultural loans of farmers up to Rs 2 lakh and raise the Minimum Support Price for as many as 17 varieties of farm produce.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao of "diluting the Tribal Rights Act to the detriment of forest dwellers.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao of "diluting the Tribal Rights Act to the detriment of forest dwellers. Addressing an election meeting at Bhoopalpally in the tribal belt of Telangana, he promised reservations in government jobs and admissions to state-run educational institutions for Scheduled Tribe candidates proportionate to their population in the state. "Prime Minister Modi weakened Adivasi Bill (Tribal Bill) at the centre and KCR diluted it at the state. As soon as we form our government in Telangana we will ensure that you (tribals) get back your land. We have mentioned this in our manifesto also. "We will give reservations too that will be proportionate to your population," Gandhi told the rally. The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act was passed in 2006 when the UPA was in power. It is variously referred to as Forest Rights Act, Tribal Rights Act, Tribal Bill, and Tribal Land Act. The law concerns the rights of forest-dwelling communities. The opposition has been alleging that the Modi dispensation diluted various provisions of the law including the condition of "free informed consent" from gram sabhas for any government plans to remove tribals from forests and for resettlement or rehabilitation packages. It is alleged that the law was diluted to favour mining companies and industrialists. Gandhi said the previous UPA government brought the law which gave immense benefits to tribals. The Telangana government has been accused of diluting the Act by outlawing traditional methods of forest land cultivation. The Congress president said tribals could not reap full benefit of the law in Telangana because of dilution of its provisions. Gandhi assured that contract workers of Singareni Collieries would be regularised if the Congress-led alliance came to power in Telangana and the cases of employees who lost their jobs for various reasons would be sympathetically examined. He also slammed the prime minister for his "habit" of privatising public sector undertakings. Punning on chief minister KCR's initials, Gandhi called him "Khao Commission Rao" who promised that he would "redesign" the state but instead redesigned irrigation projects, which resulted in cost escalation and burdened the people, only to benefit members of his family and contractors. Taking a jibe at the TRS chief's comment that he will go home and take rest if he loses the polls, Gandhi said, "KCR will definitely take rest in a Rs 300 crore palatial bungalow after the elections. You take rest and the Congress party will fulfil the aspirations and dreams of Telangana with the help of its people." Addressing another rally at Armoor, he said, if the Congress came to power at the Centre, it would simplify the GST and sympathetically examine taxes on the beedi industry. He also promised that a corpus fund of Rs 500 crore would be raised to help migrant workers in the Persian Gulf. Targeting the prime minister over his signature mass outreach programme 'Mann Ki Baat' on All India Radio, Gandhi said, "Modi ji tells you his 'Mann ki Baat' (speaks his mind) every month. But we will listen to your (people's) Mann Ki Baat and run Telangana according to your wishes." The Congress president said while Modi and KCR always kept the doors of banks open for the rich, the Congress-led government in Telangana will waive agricultural loans of farmers up to Rs 2 lakh and raise the Minimum Support Price for as many as 17 varieties of farm produce.

Modi, KCR diluted tribal rights law: Rahul Gandhi

The "kamdar" is in a fight against the "naamdar" in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-assembly-elections-bjp-releases-manifesto-179698">Rajasthan</a>, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Nagaur on Wednesday, making a distinction between the one who works and the dynast in a jibe against Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Driving home the difference between himself and the Congress leader, who he has often referred to as 'naamdar' (dynast), he said he was like the people and was not born with a golden spoon.

"We are not seeking votes for our grandsons or granddaughters but for your welfare and to help fulfil your dreams," the prime minister said at a rally here ahead of elections in the state on December 7.

Hitting out at the Congress, he said those whose four generations have had no connect with the public cannot understand the pain of the common people.

"Our only mantra is 'sabka saath, sabka vikas', inspired by social reformist Jyotiba Phule and B R Ambedkar," the prime minister said.

Asking people to elect the Vasundhara Raje government for another term in the state, he said water is a big problem in the desert state. The Raje government has provided irrigation facilities in 1.5 lakh hectare area, he told the gathering.

The "kamdar" is in a fight against the "naamdar" in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Nagaur on Wednesday, making a distinction between the one who works and the dynast in a jibe against Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

The "kamdar" is in a fight against the "naamdar" in Rajasthan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in Nagaur on Wednesday, making a distinction between the one who works and the dynast in a jibe against Congress president Rahul Gandhi. Driving home the difference between himself and the Congress leader, who he has often referred to as 'naamdar' (dynast), he said he was like the people and was not born with a golden spoon. "We are not seeking votes for our grandsons or granddaughters but for your welfare and to help fulfil your dreams," the prime minister said at a rally here ahead of elections in the state on December 7. Hitting out at the Congress, he said those whose four generations have had no connect with the public cannot understand the pain of the common people. "Our only mantra is 'sabka saath, sabka vikas', inspired by social reformist Jyotiba Phule and B R Ambedkar," the prime minister said. Asking people to elect the Vasundhara Raje government for another term in the state, he said water is a big problem in the desert state. The Raje government has provided irrigation facilities in 1.5 lakh hectare area, he told the gathering.

'Kamdar' in fight against 'naamdar' in this election: PM Modi attacks Rahul Gandhi in Rajasthan

This election campaign has set a new low for political discourse, and it was evident from the following statements for the Prime Minister of the country. Congress MP Raj Babbar had mocked PM’s mother and said that the value of the Rupee has reached her age. Another Congress leader Vilasrao Muttemwar had said: “Nobody knows the name of Modi’s father.”

Earlier, barbs like ‘Maut ka Saudagar’, ‘50 crore ki Girlfriend’, ‘Chor Chowkidar’, ‘Clown Prince’ were among the many vitriolic attacks that had done the rounds from all sides of the political spectrum. In a mature and a progressive democracy, such statements are uncalled for and senior leaders should avoid the temptation to make such derogatory statements. Both sides will enter the assemblies or Parliament and will have to work together. Then why create such bitterness during elections?

From a voter standpoint, we don’t feel it is right and neither do we approve of such statements. As a voter, it is easy for us to judge the events and decide why one is making such a statement. Either, the person making a statement does not have worthy things to talk about or/and have a poor track record of delivery, or the oratory is weak enough to get covered in the media or heard by the voter. Or he lacks the vision for his electorate. 
 
Whatever the reason may be, the statement brings down the decorum of the position one is holding or fighting for and also makes it appear cheap before the listeners. Media headlines will last for a day or a few days, but the wrong impression and a bad precedent created will last for a lifetime. Who has forgotten Mani Shankar Iyer’s “Neech Aadmi” statement or Sonia Gandhi’s “Maut ka Saudagar” jibe. Still the public voted Narendra Modi to power with a massive majority. Why waste time and opportunity to bring down someone with such cheap tactics? Rather, get down to real issues, list your achievements and leave your voters spellbound with your articulation of the vision for their prosperity.

Here is the transcript of what transpired between Senator John McCain and a voter during the US Presidential Campaign

Voter: “I gonna ask you a question. I don’t know, and I can’t even trust Obama. I have read about him… he is… he is not … he is an Arab..

Senator McCain: “No, no, Ma’am. He is a decent, family man, a citizen, that I happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues, that what this campaign is all about. He is not &nbsp;(meaning, he is not an Arab)! &nbsp;Thank you!&nbsp;

And the public responded with a loud applause.

Senator McCain could have used the opportunity to side with the lady for the sake of creating a doubt in the minds of the people about his opponent, more so, when it was an opportunity served on the platter. But he chose not to stoop so low, &nbsp;and this speaks of his ideas and his firmness to not compromise with his conscience. Elections will be won or lost but conscience should never be compromised.

Senator John McCain is no more but he will remain a role model for politicians. Politics is a platform to serve the society, and people who make derogatory statements and vilify with raucous public statements certainly are not there to serve the public but perhaps serve themselves or pump up their ego. Such people should have no place in public life.

Elections must be fought on issues of public interest, on the achievements of the candidate, on his vision for his/her electorate and not deriding or chiding the competitor. People should be able to choose who has the best track record or a great vision for his electorate. Perhaps the lack of which forces the candidates to fall low and make personal attacks.

This reminds me of a quote attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt: Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.&nbsp;

We are looking for great minds in politics!

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-political-discourse-desperately-needs-a-course-correction-2689959">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

This election campaign has set a new low for political discourse, and it was evident from the following statements for the Prime Minister of the country. Congress MP Raj Babbar had mocked PM’s mother and said that the value of the Rupee has reached her age.

This election campaign has set a new low for political discourse, and it was evident from the following statements for the Prime Minister of the country. Congress MP Raj Babbar had mocked PM’s mother and said that the value of the Rupee has reached her age. Another Congress leader Vilasrao Muttemwar had said: “Nobody knows the name of Modi’s father.” Earlier, barbs like ‘Maut ka Saudagar’, ‘50 crore ki Girlfriend’, ‘Chor Chowkidar’, ‘Clown Prince’ were among the many vitriolic attacks that had done the rounds from all sides of the political spectrum. In a mature and a progressive democracy, such statements are uncalled for and senior leaders should avoid the temptation to make such derogatory statements. Both sides will enter the assemblies or Parliament and will have to work together. Then why create such bitterness during elections? From a voter standpoint, we don’t feel it is right and neither do we approve of such statements. As a voter, it is easy for us to judge the events and decide why one is making such a statement. Either, the person making a statement does not have worthy things to talk about or/and have a poor track record of delivery, or the oratory is weak enough to get covered in the media or heard by the voter. Or he lacks the vision for his electorate. Whatever the reason may be, the statement brings down the decorum of the position one is holding or fighting for and also makes it appear cheap before the listeners. Media headlines will last for a day or a few days, but the wrong impression and a bad precedent created will last for a lifetime. Who has forgotten Mani Shankar Iyer’s “Neech Aadmi” statement or Sonia Gandhi’s “Maut ka Saudagar” jibe. Still the public voted Narendra Modi to power with a massive majority. Why waste time and opportunity to bring down someone with such cheap tactics? Rather, get down to real issues, list your achievements and leave your voters spellbound with your articulation of the vision for their prosperity. Here is the transcript of what transpired between Senator John McCain and a voter during the US Presidential Campaign Voter: “I gonna ask you a question. I don’t know, and I can’t even trust Obama. I have read about him… he is… he is not … he is an Arab.. Senator McCain: “No, no, Ma’am. He is a decent, family man, a citizen, that I happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues, that what this campaign is all about. He is not (meaning, he is not an Arab)! Thank you! And the public responded with a loud applause. Senator McCain could have used the opportunity to side with the lady for the sake of creating a doubt in the minds of the people about his opponent, more so, when it was an opportunity served on the platter. But he chose not to stoop so low, and this speaks of his ideas and his firmness to not compromise with his conscience. Elections will be won or lost but conscience should never be compromised. Senator John McCain is no more but he will remain a role model for politicians. Politics is a platform to serve the society, and people who make derogatory statements and vilify with raucous public statements certainly are not there to serve the public but perhaps serve themselves or pump up their ego. Such people should have no place in public life. Elections must be fought on issues of public interest, on the achievements of the candidate, on his vision for his/her electorate and not deriding or chiding the competitor. People should be able to choose who has the best track record or a great vision for his electorate. Perhaps the lack of which forces the candidates to fall low and make personal attacks. This reminds me of a quote attributed to Eleanor Roosevelt: Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people. We are looking for great minds in politics! (This article was originally published on 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)

Assembly elections 2018: Political discourse desperately needs a course correction

O, what a fall, my countrymen! That Shakespearean expression comes to mind this week as Indians go to vote in the heartland states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan amid falling standards in national politics that ironically contrasts the new heights to which ordinary citizens are taking India with their extraordinary feats. Yatha raja, thatha praja (as is the king, so are the subjects), goes the old saying. If the opposite, yatha praja, thatha raja (as are the citizens, so is the king) is to be a true saying in a modern democracy, we seem to be in a schizophrenic phase in India's public life, where the sayings of the leaders do not tally with the actions of its exemplary citizens.

Mary Kom has just done India proud again by winning her sixth gold in world boxing. India's women cricketers are showing that both as a winnable game and a commercially viable one, the sport has broken the gender barrier in the country. We have sent a rocket to Mars and are planning to send one to the moon. Satellite launches have become mainstream. World class universities and international schools are mushrooming. Billion-dollar 'unicorns' are commonspeak among India's 20-something technology entrepreneurs.&nbsp;

Now, look at the low-level name-calling by political leaders on the election trail, and contrast this with the plight of farmers in key areas, and we know something is rotten, in the state of Denmark,...er, India. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh deserves some brownie points for reminding his successor Narendra Modi that his language to boost the BJP does not fit well with the dignity of the prime minister's chair. Dr Singh even admits that he should not have used a word like "disaster" while talking of what Modi's rule ahead of the 2014 election. But his own party colleagues are not exactly excellent in their name-calling pursuits in a supposed attempt to revive the fortunes of the Indian National Congress.

While Modi invokes the name of 'naamdar' to hit at the Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty, he forgets that the family's leaders have won repeated endorsements from Indian voters, set up IITs and IIMs, won wars and brought in the green and white revolutions to boost grain and milk production in the country. Above all, one from the family went to jail for India's independence and two were killed in political assassinations.&nbsp;

However, Congress leader CP Joshi, instead of underlining such positive factors, says Modi as a low-caste person has no right to talk about Hinduism because he is not a Brahmin. That goes against the Congress party's claims to create an egalitarian social order. Party colleague Raj Babbar compares the falling value of the rupee against the US dollar to the age of Modi's mother, taking his own value lower than that of the currency he is speaking of!&nbsp;

Vilasrao Muttemwar says "nobody knows the name of Modi's father," forgetting that this is a civilisation that venerates Satyakama Jabala from the Chandogya Upanishad, who is considered of high moral character because he was honest enough to admit he did not know who his father was!

Modi has been called 'chaiwala' in a derogatory tone by Congress leaders like Mani Shankar Aiyar, while pro-Congress columnists in defence eagerly point out to references by BJP's Subramanian Swamy and Paresh Rawal describing Sonia Gandhi as a barmaid. About Modi being called Feku and Rahul Gandhi being called Pappu on social media, the less said the better.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu has had its history of saree-pulling and name-calling to prove that down south, the politics of language may be different from that of the north, but the language of politics is not!

Those jibe-filled moments would have been better spent discussing procurement prices or credit for farmers, jobs for youths and why Kashmir continues to burn despite efforts by all parties.&nbsp;

Low-level speeches insult the intelligence of the average Indian citizens, belittle the pride that achievers like scientists, artists, engineers and sportspeople bring to the nation and most important of all, shift the political discourse away from the legitimate differences on ideology and issues to one where the visibly crass lead the assumedly dumb into a democratic dystopia.&nbsp;

Perhaps more significant, abusive language that points towards lineage and personal beliefs goes against the vision of building a meritocratic, egalitarian India where issues and principles are discussed more than cheap references to biological origins of leaders. We are doing badly enough in having to commemorate 26 November as a day of terrorist attacks in Mumbai than the one on which we gave to ourselves our democratic constitution. But that can be blamed on circumstances. Crass political speeches are self-inflicted wounds on the republic that promises freedom, justice and other such noble virtues of public order.

Some commentators say personal jibes end up making heroes of the targets, and Rahul Gandhi may gain votes from BJP's barbs just like Modi gained from Congress insults. In a world of what I call consumer goods politics that thrive on building brands by hook or by crook, one might well agree with that, but I do believe there is a moral case to raise the standard of politics. More important, burning issues such as jobs, health, poverty and education may be more effective in connecting voters with real issues than jibes on lineage. That would bring ideology and policies above name-calling and cheap shots.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/personal-attacks-by-politicians-are-an-insult-to-indian-voters-2159031.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

O, what a fall, my countrymen! That Shakespearean expression comes to mind this week as Indians go to vote in the heartland states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan amid falling standards in national politics that ironically contrasts the new heights to which ordinary citizens are taking India with their extraordinary feats.

O, what a fall, my countrymen! That Shakespearean expression comes to mind this week as Indians go to vote in the heartland states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan amid falling standards in national politics that ironically contrasts the new heights to which ordinary citizens are taking India with their extraordinary feats. Yatha raja, thatha praja (as is the king, so are the subjects), goes the old saying. If the opposite, yatha praja, thatha raja (as are the citizens, so is the king) is to be a true saying in a modern democracy, we seem to be in a schizophrenic phase in India's public life, where the sayings of the leaders do not tally with the actions of its exemplary citizens. Mary Kom has just done India proud again by winning her sixth gold in world boxing. India's women cricketers are showing that both as a winnable game and a commercially viable one, the sport has broken the gender barrier in the country. We have sent a rocket to Mars and are planning to send one to the moon. Satellite launches have become mainstream. World class universities and international schools are mushrooming. Billion-dollar 'unicorns' are commonspeak among India's 20-something technology entrepreneurs. Now, look at the low-level name-calling by political leaders on the election trail, and contrast this with the plight of farmers in key areas, and we know something is rotten, in the state of Denmark,...er, India. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh deserves some brownie points for reminding his successor Narendra Modi that his language to boost the BJP does not fit well with the dignity of the prime minister's chair. Dr Singh even admits that he should not have used a word like "disaster" while talking of what Modi's rule ahead of the 2014 election. But his own party colleagues are not exactly excellent in their name-calling pursuits in a supposed attempt to revive the fortunes of the Indian National Congress. While Modi invokes the name of 'naamdar' to hit at the Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty, he forgets that the family's leaders have won repeated endorsements from Indian voters, set up IITs and IIMs, won wars and brought in the green and white revolutions to boost grain and milk production in the country. Above all, one from the family went to jail for India's independence and two were killed in political assassinations. However, Congress leader CP Joshi, instead of underlining such positive factors, says Modi as a low-caste person has no right to talk about Hinduism because he is not a Brahmin. That goes against the Congress party's claims to create an egalitarian social order. Party colleague Raj Babbar compares the falling value of the rupee against the US dollar to the age of Modi's mother, taking his own value lower than that of the currency he is speaking of! Vilasrao Muttemwar says "nobody knows the name of Modi's father," forgetting that this is a civilisation that venerates Satyakama Jabala from the Chandogya Upanishad, who is considered of high moral character because he was honest enough to admit he did not know who his father was! Modi has been called 'chaiwala' in a derogatory tone by Congress leaders like Mani Shankar Aiyar, while pro-Congress columnists in defence eagerly point out to references by BJP's Subramanian Swamy and Paresh Rawal describing Sonia Gandhi as a barmaid. About Modi being called Feku and Rahul Gandhi being called Pappu on social media, the less said the better. Tamil Nadu has had its history of saree-pulling and name-calling to prove that down south, the politics of language may be different from that of the north, but the language of politics is not! Those jibe-filled moments would have been better spent discussing procurement prices or credit for farmers, jobs for youths and why Kashmir continues to burn despite efforts by all parties. Low-level speeches insult the intelligence of the average Indian citizens, belittle the pride that achievers like scientists, artists, engineers and sportspeople bring to the nation and most important of all, shift the political discourse away from the legitimate differences on ideology and issues to one where the visibly crass lead the assumedly dumb into a democratic dystopia. Perhaps more significant, abusive language that points towards lineage and personal beliefs goes against the vision of building a meritocratic, egalitarian India where issues and principles are discussed more than cheap references to biological origins of leaders. We are doing badly enough in having to commemorate 26 November as a day of terrorist attacks in Mumbai than the one on which we gave to ourselves our democratic constitution. But that can be blamed on circumstances. Crass political speeches are self-inflicted wounds on the republic that promises freedom, justice and other such noble virtues of public order. Some commentators say personal jibes end up making heroes of the targets, and Rahul Gandhi may gain votes from BJP's barbs just like Modi gained from Congress insults. In a world of what I call consumer goods politics that thrive on building brands by hook or by crook, one might well agree with that, but I do believe there is a moral case to raise the standard of politics. More important, burning issues such as jobs, health, poverty and education may be more effective in connecting voters with real issues than jibes on lineage. That would bring ideology and policies above name-calling and cheap shots. (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)

Personal attacks by politicians are an insult to Indian voters

The hectic political campaign in five states has not stopped Prime Minister Modi from keeping a busy schedule on the diplomatic front.

After visiting Singapore and Maldives during the Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh campaign, the Prime Minister today is travelling to Argentina to attend the G20 summit, in the midst of campaigning for the Rajasthan and Telangana elections.

In fact, from November 23, the Prime Minister has been on the campaign trail every day. Beginning with Mizoram on the 23rd, the Prime Minister has campaigned across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Telangana in the last six days.

November 28 saw him address two election rallies in Rajasthan, in the course of a seven-hour journey. Barely 90 minutes after landing in Delhi, the Prime Minister emplaned for Argentina.

The journey from Delhi to Buenos Aires involves two legs of nearly 12-hour duration each, with a short technical halt in Cape Town, South Africa. The total travel time to Buenos Aires is 25 hours, and consequently, the to and fro trips will involve a combined journey time of nearly 50 hours.

In between these two trips, the Prime Minister will be in Buenos Aires for just over 50 hours. This time period includes two nights. In the space of these 50 hours, the Prime Minister has over 25 scheduled engagements. These include the various sessions of the G20 summit, sideline meetings including the BRICS informal meeting, and bilateral meetings with various world leaders. Besides these scheduled engagements, the Prime Minister may engage informally with other leaders as well.

An important item on his itinerary is to attend and address a "Yoga for Peace" event in Buenos Aires.

The Prime Minister will return to India in the wee hours of December 3, only to take off again within 12 hours to resume his political campaigning in Rajasthan and Telangana for the next two days. On December 3, PM Modi will campaign in Jodhpur and Hyderabad.

The hectic political campaign in five states has not stopped Prime Minister Modi from keeping a busy schedule on the diplomatic front. After visiting Singapore and Maldives during the Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh campaign, the Prime Minister today is travelling to Argentina to attend the G20 summit, in the midst of campaigning for the Rajasthan and Telangana elections.

The hectic political campaign in five states has not stopped Prime Minister Modi from keeping a busy schedule on the diplomatic front. After visiting Singapore and Maldives during the Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh campaign, the Prime Minister today is travelling to Argentina to attend the G20 summit, in the midst of campaigning for the Rajasthan and Telangana elections. In fact, from November 23, the Prime Minister has been on the campaign trail every day. Beginning with Mizoram on the 23rd, the Prime Minister has campaigned across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Telangana in the last six days. November 28 saw him address two election rallies in Rajasthan, in the course of a seven-hour journey. Barely 90 minutes after landing in Delhi, the Prime Minister emplaned for Argentina. The journey from Delhi to Buenos Aires involves two legs of nearly 12-hour duration each, with a short technical halt in Cape Town, South Africa. The total travel time to Buenos Aires is 25 hours, and consequently, the to and fro trips will involve a combined journey time of nearly 50 hours. In between these two trips, the Prime Minister will be in Buenos Aires for just over 50 hours. This time period includes two nights. In the space of these 50 hours, the Prime Minister has over 25 scheduled engagements. These include the various sessions of the G20 summit, sideline meetings including the BRICS informal meeting, and bilateral meetings with various world leaders. Besides these scheduled engagements, the Prime Minister may engage informally with other leaders as well. An important item on his itinerary is to attend and address a "Yoga for Peace" event in Buenos Aires. The Prime Minister will return to India in the wee hours of December 3, only to take off again within 12 hours to resume his political campaigning in Rajasthan and Telangana for the next two days. On December 3, PM Modi will campaign in Jodhpur and Hyderabad.

From Assembly polls to G20 summit, tracking PM Modi's schedule

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned down Pakistan's invite to the SAARC summit which is to be held in Islamabad.&nbsp;

The announcement was made by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.&nbsp;

"We are not responding to it (Pakistan's invitation to Modi to the SAARC summit) positively because as I said unless and until Pakistan stops terror activities in India, there will be no dialogue. So we will not participate in SAARC," ANI quoted Swaraj as saying.&nbsp;

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EAM Sushma Swaraj: We are not responding to it( invitation by Pakistan for SAARC summit) positively because as I said unless and until Pakistan stops terror activities in India, there will be no dialogue, so we will not participate in SAARC <a href="https://t.co/ufb2H9UDuD">pic.twitter.com/ufb2H9UDuD</a>
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Swaraj had earlier said that India and Pakistan were not going to start talking just becuase they are in the process of opening the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-paks-imran-khan-to-lay-foundation-stone-for-kartarpur-corridor-today-179875">Kartarpur Corridor</a>.&nbsp;

The foundation stone-laying ceremony fo the corridor is taking place today in Kartarpur, Pakistan.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-not-connected-with-dialogue-process-with-pak-sushma-swaraj-179919">Terror and talks cannot go together</a>, Swaraj said.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal had on Tuesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be invited for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Faisal recalled that Prime Minister Imran Khan had said in his victory speech that if India takes one step forward, Pakistan would take two.

The 2016 SAARC summit was also supposed to have been held in Islamabad.&nbsp;

But after a deadly terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir in September that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances".

The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet. Maldives and Sri Lanka are the seventh and eighth members of the initiative.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned down Pakistan's invite to the SAARC summit which is to be held in Islamabad. The announcement was made by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned down Pakistan's invite to the SAARC summit which is to be held in Islamabad. The announcement was made by India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. "We are not responding to it (Pakistan's invitation to Modi to the SAARC summit) positively because as I said unless and until Pakistan stops terror activities in India, there will be no dialogue. So we will not participate in SAARC," ANI quoted Swaraj as saying. EAM Sushma Swaraj: We are not responding to it( invitation by Pakistan for SAARC summit) positively because as I said unless and until Pakistan stops terror activities in India, there will be no dialogue, so we will not participate in SAARC pic.twitter.com/ufb2H9UDuD — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2018 × Swaraj had earlier said that India and Pakistan were not going to start talking just becuase they are in the process of opening the Kartarpur Corridor. The foundation stone-laying ceremony fo the corridor is taking place today in Kartarpur, Pakistan. Terror and talks cannot go together, Swaraj said. Pakistan Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal had on Tuesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be invited for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Faisal recalled that Prime Minister Imran Khan had said in his victory speech that if India takes one step forward, Pakistan would take two. The 2016 SAARC summit was also supposed to have been held in Islamabad. But after a deadly terrorist attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri in Jammu and Kashmir in September that year, India expressed its inability to participate in the summit due to "prevailing circumstances". The summit was called off after Bangladesh, Bhutan and Afghanistan also declined to participate in the Islamabad meet. Maldives and Sri Lanka are the seventh and eighth members of the initiative. (With inputs from PTI)

Modi turns down Pakistan invite to SAARC summit

After Mamata Banerjee, another Opposition's warrior has stepped up&nbsp;efforts to unite anti-BJP forces ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019.

Over the past few weeks, Naidu met several opposition leaders and gave some brazen statements against the ruling party. He said that it's the responsibility of opposition leaders to defeat the BJP in 2019 Lok Sabha elections and save the democracy.

Most importantly, Naidu dropped his 'non-Congress Third Front' plank and met party president Rahul Gandhi. Both the leaders stressed on the need for Opposition unity to save the nation. They maintained it's a democratic compulsion for the TDP and Congress to come together setting aside their differences.

Furthermore, Naidu also met West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, his son and chief minister of Karnataka HD Kumaraswamy and DMK chief MK Stalin to put up united face against the BJP.

Asserting that the nation is under threat, the TDP chief has convened a meeting of the Opposition leaders in December to discuss future strategies to defeat the BJP in 2019 elections.

Naidu had pulled out of the NDA in March this year over the Centre's refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh.

A few days ago, Mamata Banerjee was running from pillar to post to unite the opposition, but now Chandrababu Naidu is racing ahead of her. However, they both are in sync with each other to achieve their common goal - demolishing BJP.

The two interlocutors - Naidu and Mamata, have been trying to stitch an anti-BJP alliance for quite some time now. They have made communalism, attack on institutions like RBI, CBI and economic crisis under the NDA-rule as main grounds to garner the support of the Opposition parties.&nbsp;

The 'Third Front' could be a definite possibility in 2019 Lok Sabha elections and several state elections prove it quite clearly. In Uttar Pradesh bypolls, Samajwadi Party, backed by the BSP, defeated the BJP in Phulpur and Gorakhpur constituency. &nbsp;

In 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections, the Saffron party met a similar fate when Congress and JD(S) formed a coalition government in the state despite BJP emerging as the single largest party.&nbsp;

Moreover, in the recent Karnataka bypolls, the ruling coalition - JDS-Congress stunned BJP by winning both the Assembly seats and two of the three Lok Sabha seats. This came as a morale booster for the Opposition in the run-up to 2019 Assembly elections.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in another significant development, PDP, with the support of Congress and National Conference, has staked claim to form the government in Jammu and Kashmir. This is an important realignment of political forces in the state wherein NC and PDP have set aside their rivalry to take on the BJP.

It seems there is no competition among the opposition leaders for declaring the face of Opposition (at least for now). Acting wisely, Naidu has chosen to go along with Mamata Banerjee on this, and after a round of talks both the leaders announced - "Everyone will be the face of Mahagathbandhan."

Senior Opposition leaders like Sharad Pawar, Farooq Abdullah have authorised Naidu to speak to various state leaders to bring all anti-BJP forces together. The TDP chief has reportedly assured them of convincing Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to become part of the 'Grand Secular Alliance' against the saffron party.

Currently, there is no credible alternative leader to lead the pack of anti-BJP forces. With major Opposition parties singing in chorus against the BJP, 'Third Front' is no more a distant dream.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

After Mamata Banerjee, another Opposition's warrior has stepped up efforts to unite anti-BJP forces ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019. Over the past few weeks, Naidu met several opposition leaders and gave some brazen statements against the ruling party.

After Mamata Banerjee, another Opposition's warrior has stepped up efforts to unite anti-BJP forces ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019. Over the past few weeks, Naidu met several opposition leaders and gave some brazen statements against the ruling party. He said that it's the responsibility of opposition leaders to defeat the BJP in 2019 Lok Sabha elections and save the democracy. Most importantly, Naidu dropped his 'non-Congress Third Front' plank and met party president Rahul Gandhi. Both the leaders stressed on the need for Opposition unity to save the nation. They maintained it's a democratic compulsion for the TDP and Congress to come together setting aside their differences. Furthermore, Naidu also met West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee, National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, his son and chief minister of Karnataka HD Kumaraswamy and DMK chief MK Stalin to put up united face against the BJP. Asserting that the nation is under threat, the TDP chief has convened a meeting of the Opposition leaders in December to discuss future strategies to defeat the BJP in 2019 elections. Naidu had pulled out of the NDA in March this year over the Centre's refusal to grant special status to Andhra Pradesh. A few days ago, Mamata Banerjee was running from pillar to post to unite the opposition, but now Chandrababu Naidu is racing ahead of her. However, they both are in sync with each other to achieve their common goal - demolishing BJP. The two interlocutors - Naidu and Mamata, have been trying to stitch an anti-BJP alliance for quite some time now. They have made communalism, attack on institutions like RBI, CBI and economic crisis under the NDA-rule as main grounds to garner the support of the Opposition parties. The 'Third Front' could be a definite possibility in 2019 Lok Sabha elections and several state elections prove it quite clearly. In Uttar Pradesh bypolls, Samajwadi Party, backed by the BSP, defeated the BJP in Phulpur and Gorakhpur constituency. In 2018 Karnataka Assembly elections, the Saffron party met a similar fate when Congress and JD(S) formed a coalition government in the state despite BJP emerging as the single largest party. Moreover, in the recent Karnataka bypolls, the ruling coalition - JDS-Congress stunned BJP by winning both the Assembly seats and two of the three Lok Sabha seats. This came as a morale booster for the Opposition in the run-up to 2019 Assembly elections. Meanwhile, in another significant development, PDP, with the support of Congress and National Conference, has staked claim to form the government in Jammu and Kashmir. This is an important realignment of political forces in the state wherein NC and PDP have set aside their rivalry to take on the BJP. It seems there is no competition among the opposition leaders for declaring the face of Opposition (at least for now). Acting wisely, Naidu has chosen to go along with Mamata Banerjee on this, and after a round of talks both the leaders announced - "Everyone will be the face of Mahagathbandhan." Senior Opposition leaders like Sharad Pawar, Farooq Abdullah have authorised Naidu to speak to various state leaders to bring all anti-BJP forces together. The TDP chief has reportedly assured them of convincing Akhilesh Yadav and Mayawati to become part of the 'Grand Secular Alliance' against the saffron party. Currently, there is no credible alternative leader to lead the pack of anti-BJP forces. With major Opposition parties singing in chorus against the BJP, 'Third Front' is no more a distant dream. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Chandrababu Naidu - Opposition's trump card to unite anti-BJP forces

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-have-replied-to-terrorists-naxals-in-their-own-language-pm-modi-at-rajasthan-poll-rally-179564">Narendra Modi </a>Monday accused the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/from-strong-to-sticky-wicket-why-retaining-power-in-telangana-wont-be-a-cakewalk-for-kcr-179734">TRS </a>and Congress of perpetuating family rule and said the two parties were playing a "friendly match" in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/chandrababu-naidu-oppositions-trump-card-to-unite-anti-bjp-forces-179678">Telangana elections</a>.

Reaffirming the BJP's commitment to inclusive growth, Modi, addressing his first election rally in the state, said vote bank politics has harmed development like "termites".

"The chief minister of Telangana and his family think they can get away with doing no work like the Congress.... They have adopted the style of the Congress which ruled for 50-52 years without doing anything. But that cannot happen now," he told an election rally in Nizamabad, as he took the poll battle to caretaker CM K Chandrasekhar Rao's turf.

Nizamabad is represented by Rao's daughter K Kavitha in the Lok Sabha.

Recalling that Rao had served as a minister in the UPA government, Modi said the TRS chief did his "apprenticeship" under the Congress.

"Congress and TRS are two faces of the same coin. Both parties are competing against each other on who tells more lies.

"TRS and Congress are family-ruled parties playing a friendly match in Telangana polls," he said, adding it was a "big joke" that UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi assailed the TRS for being a "family party" at an election rally last week.

The prime minister said Rao's decision to go for early elections could give people an opportunity to "get rid of him before time".

He said Rao did not join Ayushman Bharat scheme under which the Centre would bear medical expenses of the poor to the extent of Rs five lakh a year because of his feeling of insecurity.

"This chief minister feels so insecure...He trusts astrologers, does puja, ties nimbu-mirchi (to ward of evil). So when we introduced Ayushman Bharat Yojana, he decided not to join it. He feared people will reject him if Modicare comes into force. He did injustice to the poor people of the state," Modi said.

Amid reports that the Congress was preparing a manifesto that would envisage separate schools and hospitals for Muslims, Modi said the only Mantra that the BJP followed was "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" and was against vote bank politics.

"BJP has just one Mantra- Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. We believe in inclusive growth. Vote bank politics has damaged development like a termite," he said.

Development, he said, was a casualty wherever vote bank politics and politics of casteism, communalism and nepotism have flourished. 
He said those who believe in development, building new India and new Telangana trust BJP most.

Accusing the TRS government of not keeping its promises made to youth, farmers, Dalits, tribals and backward classes, Modi asked the voters to teach the party a lesson.

Modi said the chief minister had once asserted he would transform Nizamabad into a smart city like London but the place was still grappling with shortage of water, electricity and proper roads.

"The CM once said he would reach water of the Godavari river to each household or else will not seek votes. Has it happened? The man who cannot provide people with even water doesn't deserve to be given power," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday accused the TRS and Congress of perpetuating family rule and said the two parties were playing a "friendly match" in Telangana elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday accused the TRS and Congress of perpetuating family rule and said the two parties were playing a "friendly match" in Telangana elections. Reaffirming the BJP's commitment to inclusive growth, Modi, addressing his first election rally in the state, said vote bank politics has harmed development like "termites". "The chief minister of Telangana and his family think they can get away with doing no work like the Congress.... They have adopted the style of the Congress which ruled for 50-52 years without doing anything. But that cannot happen now," he told an election rally in Nizamabad, as he took the poll battle to caretaker CM K Chandrasekhar Rao's turf. Nizamabad is represented by Rao's daughter K Kavitha in the Lok Sabha. Recalling that Rao had served as a minister in the UPA government, Modi said the TRS chief did his "apprenticeship" under the Congress. "Congress and TRS are two faces of the same coin. Both parties are competing against each other on who tells more lies. "TRS and Congress are family-ruled parties playing a friendly match in Telangana polls," he said, adding it was a "big joke" that UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi assailed the TRS for being a "family party" at an election rally last week. The prime minister said Rao's decision to go for early elections could give people an opportunity to "get rid of him before time". He said Rao did not join Ayushman Bharat scheme under which the Centre would bear medical expenses of the poor to the extent of Rs five lakh a year because of his feeling of insecurity. "This chief minister feels so insecure...He trusts astrologers, does puja, ties nimbu-mirchi (to ward of evil). So when we introduced Ayushman Bharat Yojana, he decided not to join it. He feared people will reject him if Modicare comes into force. He did injustice to the poor people of the state," Modi said. Amid reports that the Congress was preparing a manifesto that would envisage separate schools and hospitals for Muslims, Modi said the only Mantra that the BJP followed was "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" and was against vote bank politics. "BJP has just one Mantra- Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. We believe in inclusive growth. Vote bank politics has damaged development like a termite," he said. Development, he said, was a casualty wherever vote bank politics and politics of casteism, communalism and nepotism have flourished. He said those who believe in development, building new India and new Telangana trust BJP most. Accusing the TRS government of not keeping its promises made to youth, farmers, Dalits, tribals and backward classes, Modi asked the voters to teach the party a lesson. Modi said the chief minister had once asserted he would transform Nizamabad into a smart city like London but the place was still grappling with shortage of water, electricity and proper roads. "The CM once said he would reach water of the Godavari river to each household or else will not seek votes. Has it happened? The man who cannot provide people with even water doesn't deserve to be given power," he said.

TRS, Congress two sides of same coin, are family-ruled parties: PM Modi at Telangana rally

On the eve of Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, the longest-serving chief minister of the state is unfazed by talk of anti-incumbency.

In an interview to PTI on Tuesday, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said pro-incumbency and not ant-incumbency, is at play in the central Indian state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and BJP chief Amit Shah were among the leaders who addressed poll rallies in the state, where voting for all the 230 Assembly seats is scheduled Wednesday.

"What is at work here is pro-incumbency and not anti-incumbency," said the 59-year-old BJP leader, whose party has been in power in the state since 2003.

Chouhan exuded confidence that his party will win the election with a "comfortable majority".

"The difference this time around, compared to the 2008 and 2013 polls is that we drew more crowds, especially the poor, in our public meetings," he said.

Asked if demonetisation and GST will adversely affect the BJP in the state polls, Chouhan said they wont "come in way" of the party's victory. The two initiatives will prove to be a boon for the country in the long run, he said.

Calling Modi as "God's blessing to India", Chouhan said Gandhi has lowered the "standard" of campaigning. "Nobody doubts Modi jis honesty in the country. He is an honest and upright person," he added.

"Rahul wrongly targeted my son in the Panama Papers leaks and levelled baseless allegations against me," Chouhan said.

"He also called Modi ji a chor (thief) in the Rafale deal. He has stooped too low. This is unbecoming of a leader," he said, adding Gandhi has no political understanding."

The prime minister is the pride of the country and there should be decency while referring to him, Chouhan said.

The Congress chief raised Parliament (level) issues in Madhya Pradesh, he said. Nobody knows about them in rural parts of the state, he added.

Chouhan termed as a "bundle of lies" the claim by Randeep Singh Surjewala, in-charge of the AICC communications department, that a whopping 90 per cent residents of his native village Jait in his Budhni constituency are living below the poverty line.

"The Congress has lowered the standard of campaigning in Madhya Pradesh and this is very disturbing and unacceptable in a democracy," Chouhan said.

"The Congress even dragged Modi ji's parents in the elections. This is very bad and highly condemnable," he added.

He said the Congress' poll campaign portrayed Madhya Pradesh in a bad light, especially with regard to women.

Madhya Pradesh was the first state to bring in a law providing for capital punishment to those who rape girls below 12 years, he said. After this, trial courts awarded the death penalty to 15 rapists, he said, adding the High Court upheld the death sentence of a rapist.

Chouhan said his government's decision to launch a slew of welfare schemes has paid off. "We pulled Madhya Pradesh out of the 'BIMARU' tag by making it a developed state," he added.

The acronym BIMARU was coined to refer to the economic condition of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. In recent years, these states have reported progress on many human development indicators.

On the eve of Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, the longest-serving chief minister of the state is unfazed by talk of anti-incumbency. In an interview to PTI on Tuesday, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said pro-incumbency and not ant-incumbency, is at play in the central Indian state.

On the eve of Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, the longest-serving chief minister of the state is unfazed by talk of anti-incumbency. In an interview to PTI on Tuesday, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said pro-incumbency and not ant-incumbency, is at play in the central Indian state. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi and BJP chief Amit Shah were among the leaders who addressed poll rallies in the state, where voting for all the 230 Assembly seats is scheduled Wednesday. "What is at work here is pro-incumbency and not anti-incumbency," said the 59-year-old BJP leader, whose party has been in power in the state since 2003. Chouhan exuded confidence that his party will win the election with a "comfortable majority". "The difference this time around, compared to the 2008 and 2013 polls is that we drew more crowds, especially the poor, in our public meetings," he said. Asked if demonetisation and GST will adversely affect the BJP in the state polls, Chouhan said they wont "come in way" of the party's victory. The two initiatives will prove to be a boon for the country in the long run, he said. Calling Modi as "God's blessing to India", Chouhan said Gandhi has lowered the "standard" of campaigning. "Nobody doubts Modi jis honesty in the country. He is an honest and upright person," he added. "Rahul wrongly targeted my son in the Panama Papers leaks and levelled baseless allegations against me," Chouhan said. "He also called Modi ji a chor (thief) in the Rafale deal. He has stooped too low. This is unbecoming of a leader," he said, adding Gandhi has no political understanding." The prime minister is the pride of the country and there should be decency while referring to him, Chouhan said. The Congress chief raised Parliament (level) issues in Madhya Pradesh, he said. Nobody knows about them in rural parts of the state, he added. Chouhan termed as a "bundle of lies" the claim by Randeep Singh Surjewala, in-charge of the AICC communications department, that a whopping 90 per cent residents of his native village Jait in his Budhni constituency are living below the poverty line. "The Congress has lowered the standard of campaigning in Madhya Pradesh and this is very disturbing and unacceptable in a democracy," Chouhan said. "The Congress even dragged Modi ji's parents in the elections. This is very bad and highly condemnable," he added. He said the Congress' poll campaign portrayed Madhya Pradesh in a bad light, especially with regard to women. Madhya Pradesh was the first state to bring in a law providing for capital punishment to those who rape girls below 12 years, he said. After this, trial courts awarded the death penalty to 15 rapists, he said, adding the High Court upheld the death sentence of a rapist. Chouhan said his government's decision to launch a slew of welfare schemes has paid off. "We pulled Madhya Pradesh out of the 'BIMARU' tag by making it a developed state," he added. The acronym BIMARU was coined to refer to the economic condition of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. In recent years, these states have reported progress on many human development indicators.

Pro-incumbency at work in Madhya Pradesh, says Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday attacked Prime Minister Narendra suggesting that PM Modi must exercise due restraint and not use the "type of language which has now become common practice," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The former PM added that the prime minister of a country must set an example for others.&nbsp;

"He is the prime minister for all the citizens of our country and his conduct must be worthy and consistent with that obligation that he/she has as prime minister," Singh stated at an event in Delhi.&nbsp;

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The prime minister of a country must set an example. He is the prime minister for all the citizens of our country and his conduct must be worthy and consistent with that obligation that he/she has as prime minister: Former PM Manmohan Singh (26.11) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/Q32ut8k4Lz">pic.twitter.com/Q32ut8k4Lz</a>
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"My advice to PM is that he should exercise due restraint becoming of the office of PM," he said, adding that, "When he goes to states which are ruled by parties other than his, I think, has an obligation not to use the type of language which has now become a common practice," the former PM said.&nbsp;<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HKfCnSDuNKU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

On November 21, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-govt-making-calibrated-effort-to-weaken-democracy-manmohan-singh-178643">Manmohan Singh accused the government</a> of making a "careful, well-thought-out calibrated effort" to weaken democracy and lamented that the credibility of institutions like Parliament and the CBI was being "systematically denigrated".

Singh levelled the allegation at a news conference in Indore ahead of the Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh on November 28, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The BJP rejected Singh's charge while the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) did not react. 
&nbsp;

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday attacked Prime Minister Narendra suggesting that PM Modi must exercise due restraint and not use the "type of language which has now become common practice," news agency ANI reported.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh on Monday attacked Prime Minister Narendra suggesting that PM Modi must exercise due restraint and not use the "type of language which has now become common practice," news agency ANI reported. The former PM added that the prime minister of a country must set an example for others. "He is the prime minister for all the citizens of our country and his conduct must be worthy and consistent with that obligation that he/she has as prime minister," Singh stated at an event in Delhi. The prime minister of a country must set an example. He is the prime minister for all the citizens of our country and his conduct must be worthy and consistent with that obligation that he/she has as prime minister: Former PM Manmohan Singh (26.11) #Delhi pic.twitter.com/Q32ut8k4Lz — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2018 × "My advice to PM is that he should exercise due restraint becoming of the office of PM," he said, adding that, "When he goes to states which are ruled by parties other than his, I think, has an obligation not to use the type of language which has now become a common practice," the former PM said. On November 21, Manmohan Singh accused the government of making a "careful, well-thought-out calibrated effort" to weaken democracy and lamented that the credibility of institutions like Parliament and the CBI was being "systematically denigrated". Singh levelled the allegation at a news conference in Indore ahead of the Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh on November 28, news agency PTI reported. The BJP rejected Singh's charge while the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) did not react.

My advice to PM Modi is, exercise due restraint on language: Manmohan Singh

BJP president Amit Shah in an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary defended the Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik and said there is no reason to doubt the intentions of the honourable governor. Accusing the Opposition of lying over the Rafale deal, Shah challenged the Congress president Rahul Gandhi to specify his source of information on the issue.

Shah also discussed CBI row, 2019 elections and other issues. Edited excerpts.&nbsp; &nbsp;

WION: Amid the campaign for the assembly elections, a new issue has emerged. What do you have to say about it? Do you think that dissolving the J&amp;K assembly was the only option?

Amit Shah: I don't think it's a problem. It's a solution. We do not have any reason to doubt the intentions of the honourable governor. Those crying foul also wanted the same. He has taken a political stand and cannot take it back.

WION: You have given an opportunity to the opposition parties in the state to come together. It's never been seen before that the three opposition parties come together to stake claim to form a govt.

Amit Shah: These three parties made claims of horse trading in the last week. These parties can tell you more about the same. I am only picking up from reports in the media. The administration and governor will know the details. From what I am gathering, preparations were on for the last three days. Based on that if someone stakes a claim which is not backed by any official letter either from the Congress or the NC- which to are presented before the media and not before the governor- I don't think that the people of the nation can be fooled by such things.

WION: On the issue of the Rafale deal, the entire opposition, including Rahul Gandhi, has made a huge deal out of it. Some say that it will prove to be what BOFORS became for Rajiv Gandhi. So is this issue being created only for the media, or does it have some truth?

Amit Shah: The Opposition does not have a solid issue hence they have created a fake issue out of this. They are lying. Not an extra penny has been spent and we have put our case in front of the Supreme Court. If the Congress has so much information what's stopping them from going to Supreme Court. Can the Congress President specify his source of information on Rafale? Are political parties the source of this information? Is this how one leads public life? He probably doesn't know that the papers given to him aren't accurate.

WION: What was the govt wary of when it came to the CBI that Alok Verma was asked to leave in the middle of the night?

Amit Shah: Two senior CBI officials accused each other of corruption. Who will investigate this now? Naturally a neutral agency. The CVC is probing the matter and till then officials in question have been sent on leave.

WION: What do you have to say to Rahul Gandhi's allegation that Alok Verma could have filed an FIR in the Rafale case and that is why the govt panicked?

Amit Shah: I don't know who scripts these allegations that Rahul Gandhi makes. If they tell me I would train that person. When Alok Verma was sent on a leave, two PILs were already filed in the top court. It had issued a notice after which a plea could not be registered. Somebody must tell this to Rahul Gandhi.

WION: There is a strong feeling that BJP may do something to create a wave in its favour. It could be the issue of Ram Temple or a war with Pakistan or any other issue which might evoke strong sentiments in favour of BJP. How true is that?

Amit Shah: See, we don't need a war to win an election. There is already a wave in our favour. We have given gas connections to over 5.5 crore poor households, 8 crore toilets have been built for the poor, 2 crore poor families have been given houses, 2 crore houses have been electrified. We are providing subsidised crops to farmers. The centre and state together are providing medical facilities worth Rs 5 lakh to every household. Can you believe the amount of work that this govt has done? A household had to bear smoke while cooking, that has been replaced with gas cylinders. A sixteen-year-old girl who had to relieve herself in the open now has a toilet. Can you imagine the boost in her confidence? A pregnant lady is vaccinated to protect her child and herself from diseases. There were 19000 villages where electricity poles hadn't reached even after 70 years of independence and now those villages are lit with power. We have made education, health and employment accessible. We plan to electrify all homes by 2022. All homes have a bank account. Our borders are more secure. We brought in one rank one pension. The growth rate has increased. Our economy has improved. Inflation has come down, so has the deficit. Foreign reserves are at a peak. The atmosphere of fear and insecurity is no longer there. No concrete allegations have been made against our govt. Do you think that the people of the nation do not know this? We ruled 6 states, now we rule 19. This is because of the faith of the people in our govt. &nbsp;Under the leadership of Modiji, we have worked to boost India's image globally.

WION: What if you come to power in 2019? People think that if you come to power again, there will be bolder decisions. There could be new leaders. Have you thought of an overhaul?

Amit Shah: We have only thought of coming back to power with more seats than we currently have. Our manifesto for the general elections will have all the details of our plans. There is a lot of discussions pending on the issue without which we must not make any claims.

BJP president Amit Shah in an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary defended the Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik and said there is no reason to doubt the intentions of the honourable governor.

BJP president Amit Shah in an exclusive interview with WION Editor-in-chief Sudhir Chaudhary defended the Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik and said there is no reason to doubt the intentions of the honourable governor. Accusing the Opposition of lying over the Rafale deal, Shah challenged the Congress president Rahul Gandhi to specify his source of information on the issue. Shah also discussed CBI row, 2019 elections and other issues. Edited excerpts. WION: Amid the campaign for the assembly elections, a new issue has emerged. What do you have to say about it? Do you think that dissolving the J&K assembly was the only option? Amit Shah: I don't think it's a problem. It's a solution. We do not have any reason to doubt the intentions of the honourable governor. Those crying foul also wanted the same. He has taken a political stand and cannot take it back. WION: You have given an opportunity to the opposition parties in the state to come together. It's never been seen before that the three opposition parties come together to stake claim to form a govt. Amit Shah: These three parties made claims of horse trading in the last week. These parties can tell you more about the same. I am only picking up from reports in the media. The administration and governor will know the details. From what I am gathering, preparations were on for the last three days. Based on that if someone stakes a claim which is not backed by any official letter either from the Congress or the NC- which to are presented before the media and not before the governor- I don't think that the people of the nation can be fooled by such things. WION: On the issue of the Rafale deal, the entire opposition, including Rahul Gandhi, has made a huge deal out of it. Some say that it will prove to be what BOFORS became for Rajiv Gandhi. So is this issue being created only for the media, or does it have some truth? Amit Shah: The Opposition does not have a solid issue hence they have created a fake issue out of this. They are lying. Not an extra penny has been spent and we have put our case in front of the Supreme Court. If the Congress has so much information what's stopping them from going to Supreme Court. Can the Congress President specify his source of information on Rafale? Are political parties the source of this information? Is this how one leads public life? He probably doesn't know that the papers given to him aren't accurate. WION: What was the govt wary of when it came to the CBI that Alok Verma was asked to leave in the middle of the night? Amit Shah: Two senior CBI officials accused each other of corruption. Who will investigate this now? Naturally a neutral agency. The CVC is probing the matter and till then officials in question have been sent on leave. WION: What do you have to say to Rahul Gandhi's allegation that Alok Verma could have filed an FIR in the Rafale case and that is why the govt panicked? Amit Shah: I don't know who scripts these allegations that Rahul Gandhi makes. If they tell me I would train that person. When Alok Verma was sent on a leave, two PILs were already filed in the top court. It had issued a notice after which a plea could not be registered. Somebody must tell this to Rahul Gandhi. WION: There is a strong feeling that BJP may do something to create a wave in its favour. It could be the issue of Ram Temple or a war with Pakistan or any other issue which might evoke strong sentiments in favour of BJP. How true is that? Amit Shah: See, we don't need a war to win an election. There is already a wave in our favour. We have given gas connections to over 5.5 crore poor households, 8 crore toilets have been built for the poor, 2 crore poor families have been given houses, 2 crore houses have been electrified. We are providing subsidised crops to farmers. The centre and state together are providing medical facilities worth Rs 5 lakh to every household. Can you believe the amount of work that this govt has done? A household had to bear smoke while cooking, that has been replaced with gas cylinders. A sixteen-year-old girl who had to relieve herself in the open now has a toilet. Can you imagine the boost in her confidence? A pregnant lady is vaccinated to protect her child and herself from diseases. There were 19000 villages where electricity poles hadn't reached even after 70 years of independence and now those villages are lit with power. We have made education, health and employment accessible. We plan to electrify all homes by 2022. All homes have a bank account. Our borders are more secure. We brought in one rank one pension. The growth rate has increased. Our economy has improved. Inflation has come down, so has the deficit. Foreign reserves are at a peak. The atmosphere of fear and insecurity is no longer there. No concrete allegations have been made against our govt. Do you think that the people of the nation do not know this? We ruled 6 states, now we rule 19. This is because of the faith of the people in our govt. Under the leadership of Modiji, we have worked to boost India's image globally. WION: What if you come to power in 2019? People think that if you come to power again, there will be bolder decisions. There could be new leaders. Have you thought of an overhaul? Amit Shah: We have only thought of coming back to power with more seats than we currently have. Our manifesto for the general elections will have all the details of our plans. There is a lot of discussions pending on the issue without which we must not make any claims.

Opposition has created a 'fake issue' out of Rafale deal: BJP president Amit Shah to WION

There could be more than meets the eye in senior Congress leader from Rajasthan, CP Joshi’s remark that questioned the competence of backward castes in understanding Hinduism and asserted that only Brahmins knew about the religion. 
 
The Assembly election is due in the state on December 7, and by most accounts, the Congress stands a good chance of displacing the Bharatiya Janata Party regime there. Why did Joshi then offer a comment that has the potential to antagonise the vast majority of voters who are outside the Brahmin fold? He has since expressed regret for his statement after his party chief Rahul Gandhi pulled him up, but the damage has been done.&nbsp;

On the surface, it may appear that Joshi was taking potshots at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders for speaking about Hindutva, when he said, “What is Uma Bharti’s caste? Does anyone know? What is the caste of (Sadhvi) Rithambara? Is it known? If anyone knows about religion in the country, it is the pundit, the vidwan, some say Brahmins… Sadhvi ji belongs to some religion, she talks about Hindu religion. Narendra Modi belongs to some religion, he talks about Hindu religion.” But even he must have known of the silliness of what he was speaking and realised the electoral damage it could cause to the party. Perhaps it’s precisely because of such a realisation that he shot his mouth off. Let’s understand how.&nbsp;

From all accounts, Ashok Gehlot is the frontrunner in the chief ministerial race in case the Congress wins in Rajasthan. The other aspirant, Sachin Pilot, may have party president Rahul Gandhi’s approval, but Gehlot is considered better placed, more so after the list of candidates the Congress has declared comprises a large number of his nominees — and the winners among them are certain to put their weight behind him when the time comes. Quite possibly, it’s not a situation that Joshi relishes, and he could be quite willing to torpedo the Congress’s chances in order to deny Gehlot the chief ministership. His comments were designed to anger the vast majority of voters who belong to the Other Backward Classes, the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, as well as even upper castes such as the Rajputs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One need not go too far back to understand the political rivalry between Gehlot and Joshi. The two leaders were at loggerheads during the 2013 Assembly election. Joshi was then a serious contender for the state’s chief ministership in case the Congress gained power. He was also considered close to Rahul Gandhi who had begun to tentatively explore the possibility of bringing in new (if not young) faces to the forefront. Gehlot, on the other hand, was more senior — indeed, he had once mentored Joshi — and seen to be in the Sonia Gandhi camp. The tussle between the two State leaders was, therefore, natural.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Joshi had become a Cabinet Minister in UPA-II, an elevation that was interpreted in political circles as a stamp of approval from Rahul Gandhi. The import was not lost on anyone: A first-time Member of Parliament had become a Cabinet Minister in the Union Government even as other more senior aspirants had to cool their heels. When Rahul Gandhi assumed greater responsibilities in the party, in fact becoming the de facto chief, Joshi quit the government and assumed organisational responsibilities — as a general secretary and a member of the All India Congress Committee. &nbsp;Despite this endorsement from the highest levels, he must have been dismayed by the fact that he had little role to play in the distribution of tickets in Rajasthan. That was to change soon.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi summoned Gehlot and Joshi for a meeting prior to the Assembly poll. A subtle message was sent with the exclusion of the then state party chief Chandrabhan — a known Gehlot acolyte — from the confabulation. But the reconciliation process went nowhere, with neither of the leaders agreeing to back down on their respective methods for choosing candidates.

Eventually, the tiff became one of the reasons for the Congress losing the election. However, over the last five years, while Gehlot has managed to stage a comeback within the party — even wriggling his way into the Rahul Gandhi camp — CP Joshi has not managed a similar feat. His acts of defiance targeted at Gehlot have also not yielded results, though there have been patches of success. Recall that Joshi had become the president of Rajasthan Cricket Association much against Gehlot’s wishes and designs. In various recent agitations and fire-fighting situations — when Rahul Gandhi led an agitation outside the CBI headquarters in Delhi recently, Gehlot was by his side; when government formation had to be done in Karnataka after a hung Assembly came into being, Rahul Gandhi despatched Gehlot to the State to sort matters out — Gehlot has been the chosen one. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

There could be more than meets the eye in senior Congress leader from Rajasthan, CP Joshi’s remark that questioned the competence of backward castes in understanding Hinduism and asserted that only Brahmins knew about the religion.

There could be more than meets the eye in senior Congress leader from Rajasthan, CP Joshi’s remark that questioned the competence of backward castes in understanding Hinduism and asserted that only Brahmins knew about the religion. The Assembly election is due in the state on December 7, and by most accounts, the Congress stands a good chance of displacing the Bharatiya Janata Party regime there. Why did Joshi then offer a comment that has the potential to antagonise the vast majority of voters who are outside the Brahmin fold? He has since expressed regret for his statement after his party chief Rahul Gandhi pulled him up, but the damage has been done. On the surface, it may appear that Joshi was taking potshots at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders for speaking about Hindutva, when he said, “What is Uma Bharti’s caste? Does anyone know? What is the caste of (Sadhvi) Rithambara? Is it known? If anyone knows about religion in the country, it is the pundit, the vidwan, some say Brahmins… Sadhvi ji belongs to some religion, she talks about Hindu religion. Narendra Modi belongs to some religion, he talks about Hindu religion.” But even he must have known of the silliness of what he was speaking and realised the electoral damage it could cause to the party. Perhaps it’s precisely because of such a realisation that he shot his mouth off. Let’s understand how. From all accounts, Ashok Gehlot is the frontrunner in the chief ministerial race in case the Congress wins in Rajasthan. The other aspirant, Sachin Pilot, may have party president Rahul Gandhi’s approval, but Gehlot is considered better placed, more so after the list of candidates the Congress has declared comprises a large number of his nominees — and the winners among them are certain to put their weight behind him when the time comes. Quite possibly, it’s not a situation that Joshi relishes, and he could be quite willing to torpedo the Congress’s chances in order to deny Gehlot the chief ministership. His comments were designed to anger the vast majority of voters who belong to the Other Backward Classes, the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, as well as even upper castes such as the Rajputs. One need not go too far back to understand the political rivalry between Gehlot and Joshi. The two leaders were at loggerheads during the 2013 Assembly election. Joshi was then a serious contender for the state’s chief ministership in case the Congress gained power. He was also considered close to Rahul Gandhi who had begun to tentatively explore the possibility of bringing in new (if not young) faces to the forefront. Gehlot, on the other hand, was more senior — indeed, he had once mentored Joshi — and seen to be in the Sonia Gandhi camp. The tussle between the two State leaders was, therefore, natural. Joshi had become a Cabinet Minister in UPA-II, an elevation that was interpreted in political circles as a stamp of approval from Rahul Gandhi. The import was not lost on anyone: A first-time Member of Parliament had become a Cabinet Minister in the Union Government even as other more senior aspirants had to cool their heels. When Rahul Gandhi assumed greater responsibilities in the party, in fact becoming the de facto chief, Joshi quit the government and assumed organisational responsibilities — as a general secretary and a member of the All India Congress Committee. Despite this endorsement from the highest levels, he must have been dismayed by the fact that he had little role to play in the distribution of tickets in Rajasthan. That was to change soon. Rahul Gandhi summoned Gehlot and Joshi for a meeting prior to the Assembly poll. A subtle message was sent with the exclusion of the then state party chief Chandrabhan — a known Gehlot acolyte — from the confabulation. But the reconciliation process went nowhere, with neither of the leaders agreeing to back down on their respective methods for choosing candidates. Eventually, the tiff became one of the reasons for the Congress losing the election. However, over the last five years, while Gehlot has managed to stage a comeback within the party — even wriggling his way into the Rahul Gandhi camp — CP Joshi has not managed a similar feat. His acts of defiance targeted at Gehlot have also not yielded results, though there have been patches of success. Recall that Joshi had become the president of Rajasthan Cricket Association much against Gehlot’s wishes and designs. In various recent agitations and fire-fighting situations — when Rahul Gandhi led an agitation outside the CBI headquarters in Delhi recently, Gehlot was by his side; when government formation had to be done in Karnataka after a hung Assembly came into being, Rahul Gandhi despatched Gehlot to the State to sort matters out — Gehlot has been the chosen one. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Rajasthan Assembly elections: With his 'Brahmin' remark, has CP Joshi cut the nose to spite the face?

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The Congress was in power when the Mumbai attacks took place but questioned the BJP government’s surgical strikes in Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here on Monday, hitting out at the opposition party on the issues of terrorism and Naxalism.

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Japanese car firm Mitsubishi Motors today sacked Carlos Ghosn, 64, as chairman over alleged financial misconduct at the Japanese-based car company.

"During today's board meeting, it was decided that he is dismissed as chairman," the company said in a statement.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-university-to-investigate-after-academic-claims-to-have-edited-twins-genes-179563">Chinese university to investigate after academic claims to have edited twins’ genes</a>

A Chinese university said on Monday it will immediately launch an investigation after an associate professor released videos on YouTube claiming to have edited the genes of twins born earlier this month and defending the ethics of his work.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-dead-10-wounded-after-shabaab-militants-attacked-a-sufi-religious-centre-in-somali-179523">Video: At least 15 dead, 10 wounded after Shabaab militants attacked Sufi religious centre in Somalia</a>

At least 15 people were killed and ten others wounded in the central Somalia town of Galkayo on Monday when Shabaab militants attacked a Sufi religious centre, officials said.

Congress calls Naxals revolutionaries, issues them certificates: PM Modi at poll rally in Rajasthan The Congress was in power when the Mumbai attacks took place but questioned the BJP government’s surgical strikes in Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here on Monday, hitting out at the opposition party on the issues of terrorism and Naxalism.

Congress calls Naxals revolutionaries, issues them certificates: PM Modi at poll rally in Rajasthan The Congress was in power when the Mumbai attacks took place but questioned the BJP government’s surgical strikes in Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here on Monday, hitting out at the opposition party on the issues of terrorism and Naxalism. In touch with anthropologists, psychologists to contract Sentinelese tribesman to retrieve American nationals body, says police A week after American national John Allen Chau, 26, was reportedly killed by an arrow by north Sentinelese tribesmen in Andaman islands, police officials are working with anthropologists and psychologists to retrieve his body. Mitsubishi sacks Carlos Ghosn over alleged financial misconduct Japanese car firm Mitsubishi Motors today sacked Carlos Ghosn, 64, as chairman over alleged financial misconduct at the Japanese-based car company. "During today's board meeting, it was decided that he is dismissed as chairman," the company said in a statement. Chinese university to investigate after academic claims to have edited twins’ genes A Chinese university said on Monday it will immediately launch an investigation after an associate professor released videos on YouTube claiming to have edited the genes of twins born earlier this month and defending the ethics of his work. Video: At least 15 dead, 10 wounded after Shabaab militants attacked Sufi religious centre in Somalia At least 15 people were killed and ten others wounded in the central Somalia town of Galkayo on Monday when Shabaab militants attacked a Sufi religious centre, officials said.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 50th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann ki Baat, on Sunday hailed the youth of the country for being catalysts of change.&nbsp;

"The one to bring about the change in the society are the youth. If we are able to materialise their ideas and give them an environment to express themselves, a positive change can be initiated in the country," he stated.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister thanked the national media for highlighting the many issues that were discussed during various editions of Mann Ki Baat.&nbsp;

"No politician has ever been satisfied with media, either he got inadequate coverage or was portrayed negatively, but I thank the media for highlighting the issues discussed in Mann ki Baat," the PM added.&nbsp;

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It is a good thing our youth are asking questions. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat50</a> <a href="https://t.co/jFPRxMImzA">pic.twitter.com/jFPRxMImzA</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1066570439428923393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He said that he didn't decide that politics will not be a part of his radio programme when it first started in October 2014.&nbsp;

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Our youth is all set to scale new heights of glory. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat50</a> <a href="https://t.co/FdDfKwYvHP">pic.twitter.com/FdDfKwYvHP</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1066570581980692481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"I decided that politics will not be a part of it, it’ll neither have the praises of the government nor my name. I got the inspiration and strength to stay true to my resolution from all of you," he noted.&nbsp;

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When it comes to youngsters- accept rather than expect. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat50</a> <a href="https://t.co/Aturec0GE4">pic.twitter.com/Aturec0GE4</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1066570269039448064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Prime Minister went on to praise and thank the many participants who became the callers on the programme or sent their letters from all across the country.&nbsp;

He urged people to continue participating and listen to the programme in regional languages.&nbsp;

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Thank you to friends in the media. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat50?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat50</a> <a href="https://t.co/XsrxHYVlC9">pic.twitter.com/XsrxHYVlC9</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1066569257712934912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi's monthly radio address started months after him taking over as the Prime Minister. The very first edition went on air in October 2014.

Toll-free telephone lines were introduced in September to enable more people, especially the differently abled, to connect with the broadcast.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 50th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann ki Baat, on Sunday hailed the youth of the country for being catalysts of change.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 50th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann ki Baat, on Sunday hailed the youth of the country for being catalysts of change. "The one to bring about the change in the society are the youth. If we are able to materialise their ideas and give them an environment to express themselves, a positive change can be initiated in the country," he stated. The Prime Minister thanked the national media for highlighting the many issues that were discussed during various editions of Mann Ki Baat. "No politician has ever been satisfied with media, either he got inadequate coverage or was portrayed negatively, but I thank the media for highlighting the issues discussed in Mann ki Baat," the PM added. It is a good thing our youth are asking questions. #MannKiBaat50 pic.twitter.com/jFPRxMImzA — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 25, 2018 × He said that he didn't decide that politics will not be a part of his radio programme when it first started in October 2014. Our youth is all set to scale new heights of glory. #MannKiBaat50 pic.twitter.com/FdDfKwYvHP — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 25, 2018 × "I decided that politics will not be a part of it, it’ll neither have the praises of the government nor my name. I got the inspiration and strength to stay true to my resolution from all of you," he noted. When it comes to youngsters- accept rather than expect. #MannKiBaat50 pic.twitter.com/Aturec0GE4 — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 25, 2018 × The Prime Minister went on to praise and thank the many participants who became the callers on the programme or sent their letters from all across the country. He urged people to continue participating and listen to the programme in regional languages. Thank you to friends in the media. #MannKiBaat50 pic.twitter.com/XsrxHYVlC9 — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 25, 2018 × PM Modi's monthly radio address started months after him taking over as the Prime Minister. The very first edition went on air in October 2014. Toll-free telephone lines were introduced in September to enable more people, especially the differently abled, to connect with the broadcast.

In 50th edition, Modi thanks media for highlighting issues he spoke of on Mann ki Baat

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