Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that "neither Darbari nor Maharaj, Madhya Pradesh would vote for Shivraj" again. Urging the people to vote for the BJP in the Assembly polls, he said, "Na Darbari, Na Raja, Na Maharaj, Is Baar Fir Se Shivraj."

Addressing an election rally here, Prime Minister Modi said that the Congress misruled Madhya Pradesh for more than 55 years while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has given good governance to the state in the last 15 years.

"Now you tell me whom you should vote for-Cong`s misrule or the BJP`s good governance," he asked the gathering.

Lauding Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for various schemes and policies for the benefit of the people of the state, Prime Minister Modi said, "People of Madhya Pradesh are determined to bring back Shivraj led BJP government in the state."

From the Panchayat to the Parliament, each and every state was once ruled by the Congress party. But today people across the country are rejecting the Congress.

The reason is corruption and their policy of dividing people on the basis of caste," he said.

Further sharpening his attack on Rahul Gandhi led Congress party, PM Modi asserted that the party does not trust the people of the state and therefore has not revealed the name of its chief ministerial candidate.

"Shouldn`t the Congress tell you who their Chief Ministerial candidate is? When they don`t trust you, should you trust them and cast vote for them on November 28," asked Prime Minister Modi.

He also claimed that the Congress party has become a burden on the country while his government both in states and center is working for the welfare of the country.

"We are ensuring affordable and quality healthcare for all, through Jan Aushadhi Kendras. The poor and middle-class people have been immensely benefited by our schemes. Rahul Gandhi talks about Made in Mandsaur, Made in Jabalpur, Made in Indore mobile phones, but he does not know that today India exports mobile phones," he said.

Madhya Pradesh will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. The results will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that "neither Darbari nor Maharaj, Madhya Pradesh would vote for Shivraj" again. Urging the people to vote for the BJP in the Assembly polls, he said, "Na Darbari, Na Raja, Na Maharaj, Is Baar Fir Se Shivraj.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that "neither Darbari nor Maharaj, Madhya Pradesh would vote for Shivraj" again. Urging the people to vote for the BJP in the Assembly polls, he said, "Na Darbari, Na Raja, Na Maharaj, Is Baar Fir Se Shivraj." Addressing an election rally here, Prime Minister Modi said that the Congress misruled Madhya Pradesh for more than 55 years while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has given good governance to the state in the last 15 years. "Now you tell me whom you should vote for-Cong`s misrule or the BJP`s good governance," he asked the gathering. Lauding Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan for various schemes and policies for the benefit of the people of the state, Prime Minister Modi said, "People of Madhya Pradesh are determined to bring back Shivraj led BJP government in the state." From the Panchayat to the Parliament, each and every state was once ruled by the Congress party. But today people across the country are rejecting the Congress. The reason is corruption and their policy of dividing people on the basis of caste," he said. Further sharpening his attack on Rahul Gandhi led Congress party, PM Modi asserted that the party does not trust the people of the state and therefore has not revealed the name of its chief ministerial candidate. "Shouldn`t the Congress tell you who their Chief Ministerial candidate is? When they don`t trust you, should you trust them and cast vote for them on November 28," asked Prime Minister Modi. He also claimed that the Congress party has become a burden on the country while his government both in states and center is working for the welfare of the country. "We are ensuring affordable and quality healthcare for all, through Jan Aushadhi Kendras. The poor and middle-class people have been immensely benefited by our schemes. Rahul Gandhi talks about Made in Mandsaur, Made in Jabalpur, Made in Indore mobile phones, but he does not know that today India exports mobile phones," he said. Madhya Pradesh will go to polls to elect legislators for its 230 constituencies on November 28. The results will be declared on December 11.

Na darbari, na maharaj, is baar fir se shivraj: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the 50th edition of his monthly radio programme, Mann ki Baat today.

Prime Minister's address can be heard by tuning in to the All India Radio broadcast at 11am. The broadcast can also be streamed live on YouTube channels of the Prime Minsiter's Office, Information and Broadcasting Ministry.&nbsp;

During his last radio address, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-49th-edition-of-man-ki-baat-pm-modi-urges-nation-to-run-for-unity-173961">which was aired on October 28</a> -- the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, the Prime Minister urged the country to "Run for Unity."

PM Modi also recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel in uniting the country. He said the leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India".

Further hailing the victory of the athletes in Asian Para Games PM Modi said, "India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals. I was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary and inspiring."

He also praised the country's soldier saying that "our soldiers showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war."

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 will be addressing the 50th edition of his monthly radio programme, Mann ki Baat today. Prime Minister's address can be heard by tuning in to the All India Radio broadcast at 11am.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing the 50th edition of his monthly radio programme, Mann ki Baat today. Prime Minister's address can be heard by tuning in to the All India Radio broadcast at 11am. The broadcast can also be streamed live on YouTube channels of the Prime Minsiter's Office, Information and Broadcasting Ministry. During his last radio address, which was aired on October 28 -- the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, the Prime Minister urged the country to "Run for Unity." PM Modi also recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel in uniting the country. He said the leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India". Further hailing the victory of the athletes in Asian Para Games PM Modi said, "India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals. I was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary and inspiring." He also praised the country's soldier saying that "our soldiers showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war." 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.

PM Modi to deliver 50th episode of his Mann ki Baat radio programme today

Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) has accused Sonia Gandhi of ignoring Telangana in her election speech in Medchal on Saturday.

K Kavitha, the daughter of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, said, "Sonia Gandhi visited Telangana and spoke about other states rather than speaking on Telangana state."

The TRS MP from Nizamabad also called Sonia a mouthpiece of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.

"Sonia's worlds seem to be like Chandrababu Naidu's version. Congress party is trying to implement Andhra Pradesh state agenda in Telangana," Kavitha said.

It was under the Manmohan Singh government under Sonia Gandhi-led United Progressive Alliance that Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated in 2014 and Telangana was created with K Chandrasekhar Rao as its chief minister.

Further training guns at the Congress, Kavitha accused the party of practising double standards and said, "Sonia Gandhi claims one thing and speak quite the opposite of that in Telangana. But the TRS will always speak about the Telangana's rights and development."

The southern state will go to polls on December 7 to elect 119 members of the state assembly.

Kavitha urged people to attend the public meeting of Chief Minister Rao on November 26 and make it a grand success.

Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) has accused Sonia Gandhi of ignoring Telangana in her election speech in Medchal on Saturday. K Kavitha, the daughter of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, said, "Sonia Gandhi visited Telangana and spoke about other states rather than speaking on Telangana state.

Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) has accused Sonia Gandhi of ignoring Telangana in her election speech in Medchal on Saturday. K Kavitha, the daughter of Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, said, "Sonia Gandhi visited Telangana and spoke about other states rather than speaking on Telangana state." The TRS MP from Nizamabad also called Sonia a mouthpiece of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. "Sonia's worlds seem to be like Chandrababu Naidu's version. Congress party is trying to implement Andhra Pradesh state agenda in Telangana," Kavitha said. It was under the Manmohan Singh government under Sonia Gandhi-led United Progressive Alliance that Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated in 2014 and Telangana was created with K Chandrasekhar Rao as its chief minister. Further training guns at the Congress, Kavitha accused the party of practising double standards and said, "Sonia Gandhi claims one thing and speak quite the opposite of that in Telangana. But the TRS will always speak about the Telangana's rights and development." The southern state will go to polls on December 7 to elect 119 members of the state assembly. Kavitha urged people to attend the public meeting of Chief Minister Rao on November 26 and make it a grand success.

TRS MP K Kavitha hits out at Sonia Gandhi, Congress

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister.

Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, he accused the Congress of "making false promises" and asked the opposition party whether late Indira Gandhi's "Garibi Hatao" (remove poverty) slogan a was a "lie" or not.

The prime minister's comments came in the wake of Congress president Rahul Gandhi accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "making false promises" to people during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

Modi also referred to a video clip purportedly showing Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath, saying the Congress leader seeking votes only from a "particular community" was an insult to democracy.

A video clip surfaced last week, purportedly showing Nath telling Muslim leaders to ensure "90 per cent voting" in Muslim-dominated areas.

Modi also ridiculed "namdaar" Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress chief was not being taken seriously by his own party.

"Farmers are suffering due to the wrong policies of the Congress governments...The result is that farmers are suffering...Now, they (the Congress) are defaming us.

"But the farmers would not have been ruined during the Congress's 55-year-rule had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister," he said.

The government "remote-controlled by Madam" gave loans to farmers at an interest rate of 15-16 per cent, while the BJP government was giving them interest-free loans, Modi said, in a veiled swipe at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi.

Mandsaur had witnessed intense farmers' protests last year, leading to the death of six protesters in police firing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again targeted the Nehru-Gandhi family Saturday, saying farmers would not have been "ruined" had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister. Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls, he accused the Congress of "making false promises" and asked the opposition party whether late Indira Gandhi's "Garibi Hatao" (remove poverty) slogan a was a "lie" or not. The prime minister's comments came in the wake of Congress president Rahul Gandhi accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of "making false promises" to people during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Modi also referred to a video clip purportedly showing Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath, saying the Congress leader seeking votes only from a "particular community" was an insult to democracy. A video clip surfaced last week, purportedly showing Nath telling Muslim leaders to ensure "90 per cent voting" in Muslim-dominated areas. Modi also ridiculed "namdaar" Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress chief was not being taken seriously by his own party. "Farmers are suffering due to the wrong policies of the Congress governments...The result is that farmers are suffering...Now, they (the Congress) are defaming us. "But the farmers would not have been ruined during the Congress's 55-year-rule had Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel been the country's first prime minister," he said. The government "remote-controlled by Madam" gave loans to farmers at an interest rate of 15-16 per cent, while the BJP government was giving them interest-free loans, Modi said, in a veiled swipe at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. Mandsaur had witnessed intense farmers' protests last year, leading to the death of six protesters in police firing.

Had Vallabhbhai Patel been PM, farmers would not have been ruined: PM Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/mary-kom-wins-record-sixth-gold-medal-in-womens-world-championships-179144">Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships</a>

Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday.

She scripted history by clinching a record sixth World Championship gold medal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154">Modi </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154">linkens</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-linkens-farmers-woes-to-55-60-years-of-congress-misrule-179154"> farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule&nbsp;</a>

This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday.&nbsp;

Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-congress-lacks-a-stand-on-ayodhya-dispute-bjp-pitches-a-political-narrative-on-it-179142">As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it</a>

After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-fire-tear-gas-at-fuel-price-protesters-179140">French police fire tear gas at fuel price protesters</a>

Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters in Paris who are angry over rising fuel costs and President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies, the second weekend of "yellow vest" protests that have caused disruption across France.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157">Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157">United</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/irans-rouhani-calls-for-muslims-to-unite-against-united-states-179157"> States</a>

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals".

Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday.

Mary Kom clinches record sixth gold medal in Women's World Boxing Championships Mary Kom defeated Ukraine's Hanna Okhota 5-0 in 48kg light flyweight category to win gold in Women's World Boxing Championships on Saturday. She scripted history by clinching a record sixth World Championship gold medal. Modi linkens farmers' woes to 55-60 years of Congress misrule This generation of farmers are suffering due to the wrongdoings and wrong policies of the Congress, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a public rally in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday. Modi said that his government is bearing the brunt of Congress misrule. As Congress lacks a stand on Ayodhya dispute, BJP pitches a political narrative on it After 25 years, Ayodhya is back as the main poll agenda for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party. VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena have lend muscle to the 'Dharma Sabha' which will take place on Sunday on the banks of Sarayu river in Ayodhya. It will be followed by a holy ceremony (yagna) which will take place between December 1 and 6. French police fire tear gas at fuel price protesters Police fired tear gas and used water cannon to disperse protesters in Paris who are angry over rising fuel costs and President Emmanuel Macron's economic policies, the second weekend of "yellow vest" protests that have caused disruption across France. Iran President Hassan Rouhani calls for Muslims to unite against United States Iranian President Hassan Rouhani called on Muslims worldwide on Saturday to unite against the United States, instead of "rolling out red carpets for criminals". Washington in May reimposed sanctions on Tehran, after President Donald Trump pulled out of a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran under which they had been lifted.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at the Congress today, days after its leader Raj Babbar compared the rupee's slide with the age of his mother, saying those who did not have issues to talk about, resort to abusing someone else's mother.

Hitting out at the Congress on Mr Babbar's remarks, he said, "When one doesn't have real issues to talk about, he resorts to abusing somebody else's mother."

The Congress leader had kicked up a row in Indore on Thursday when he compared the falling value of rupee against US dollar with the age of the prime minister's mother.

Addressing a rally Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur, PM Modi, in an apparent dig at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, said 125 crore people of the country were the "high-command" of his government, which was "not remote-controlled by a madam".

PM Modi claimed that "coffers of banks were emptied for the rich during the madam's government". "However, our government opened doors of banks for the needy youth," he said.

The prime minister asked why Congress was abusing Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who people fondly refer to as "maama".

Unlike Shivraj Chouhan, who is called 'maama' out of people's appreciation, Congress on the other hand "should worry about your own 'Maamas'. Ottavio Quattrocchai 'maama' and Warren Anderson 'maama' who were sent to America in a special airplane," he said, referring to the Bofors scandal and the 1984 Bhopal Gas tragedy.

He said the Congress was voted out of power in Madhya Pradesh 15 years ago because it indulged in dynastic politics and the politics of divisiveness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at the Congress today, days after its leader Raj Babbar compared the rupee's slide with the age of his mother, saying those who did not have issues to talk about, resort to abusing someone else's mother.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at the Congress today, days after its leader Raj Babbar compared the rupee's slide with the age of his mother, saying those who did not have issues to talk about, resort to abusing someone else's mother. Hitting out at the Congress on Mr Babbar's remarks, he said, "When one doesn't have real issues to talk about, he resorts to abusing somebody else's mother." The Congress leader had kicked up a row in Indore on Thursday when he compared the falling value of rupee against US dollar with the age of the prime minister's mother. Addressing a rally Madhya Pradesh's Chhatarpur, PM Modi, in an apparent dig at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, said 125 crore people of the country were the "high-command" of his government, which was "not remote-controlled by a madam". PM Modi claimed that "coffers of banks were emptied for the rich during the madam's government". "However, our government opened doors of banks for the needy youth," he said. The prime minister asked why Congress was abusing Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who people fondly refer to as "maama". Unlike Shivraj Chouhan, who is called 'maama' out of people's appreciation, Congress on the other hand "should worry about your own 'Maamas'. Ottavio Quattrocchai 'maama' and Warren Anderson 'maama' who were sent to America in a special airplane," he said, referring to the Bofors scandal and the 1984 Bhopal Gas tragedy. He said the Congress was voted out of power in Madhya Pradesh 15 years ago because it indulged in dynastic politics and the politics of divisiveness.

He doesn't have real issues to talk about: PM Modi on Babbar's remark for his mother

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday hit out at the Congress Saturday, days after its leader Raj Babbar compared the rupee's slide with the age of his mother, saying those who did not have issues to talk about, resort to abusing someone else's mother.&nbsp;

Addressing a rally here, Modi, in an apparent dig at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, said 125 crore people of the country were the "high-command" of his government, which was "not remote-controlled by a madam".

Hitting out at the Congress on Babbar's remarks, he said, "When one doesn't have issues to talk about, he resorts to abusing somebody else's mother."&nbsp;

The Congress leader had kicked up a row in Indore Thursday when he compared the falling value of rupee against US dollar with the age of the prime minister's mother.

Attacking Gandhi, Modi alleged that "coffers of banks were emptied for the rich during the madam's government". "However, our government opened doors of banks for the needy youth," Modi said.

The prime minister asked why the Congress was worried about Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan being called "mama".

"They are worried Shivraj is called mama...Why, don't you remember (Ottavio) Quattrocchi mama and Warren Anderson (then chairman of the Union Carbide) mama," he said, referring to the Bofors scandal and the 1984 Bhopal Gas tragedy.

He said the Congress was voted out of power in Madhya Pradesh 15 years ago because it indulged in the politics of divisiveness.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday hit out at the Congress Saturday, days after its leader Raj Babbar compared the rupee's slide with the age of his mother, saying those who did not have issues to talk about, resort to abusing someone else's mother.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday hit out at the Congress Saturday, days after its leader Raj Babbar compared the rupee's slide with the age of his mother, saying those who did not have issues to talk about, resort to abusing someone else's mother. Addressing a rally here, Modi, in an apparent dig at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, said 125 crore people of the country were the "high-command" of his government, which was "not remote-controlled by a madam". Hitting out at the Congress on Babbar's remarks, he said, "When one doesn't have issues to talk about, he resorts to abusing somebody else's mother." The Congress leader had kicked up a row in Indore Thursday when he compared the falling value of rupee against US dollar with the age of the prime minister's mother. Attacking Gandhi, Modi alleged that "coffers of banks were emptied for the rich during the madam's government". "However, our government opened doors of banks for the needy youth," Modi said. The prime minister asked why the Congress was worried about Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan being called "mama". "They are worried Shivraj is called mama...Why, don't you remember (Ottavio) Quattrocchi mama and Warren Anderson (then chairman of the Union Carbide) mama," he said, referring to the Bofors scandal and the 1984 Bhopal Gas tragedy. He said the Congress was voted out of power in Madhya Pradesh 15 years ago because it indulged in the politics of divisiveness.

Modi targets Congress, says coffers of banks were emptied for rich during 'madam's' govt

Days after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-mehbooba-mufti-writes-to-governor-stakes-claim-to-form-government-178644">dissolution of the Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir</a>, the Congress demanded&nbsp;that elections be held in the state as early as possible to "restore" democracy, as it termed the Governor's rule in the state as "Modi rule".

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the Governor's rule in the state as a "de facto Modi rule".

"The<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-did-not-act-on-bjps-behest-nobody-gave-me-list-of-mlas-says-jk-governor-satya-pal-malik-after-dissolving-assembly-178721"> Governor's (Satya Pal Malik)</a> rule in Kashmir is (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi rule. It is BJP rule," he told reporters here.

"BJP, in collusion with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ran the show in J&amp;K and Ladakh from behind the curtain. It is all the more important today that democracy is restored there," Surjewala said.

"Only elections can pave the way for formation of people's government in J&amp;K," he said, adding, "So Modi-ji and the Governor should get elections held as soon as possible."

"This is our direct and clear demand," Surjewala said.

The Governor abruptly dissolved the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Wednesday night, hours after the PDP staked claim to form a government with the backing of rival NC and the Congress.

This was followed by another bid from the two-member People's Conference which claimed the support of the BJP and 18 legislators from other parties.

Besides slamming the move, Surjewala also targeted the Modi government for "pushing J&amp;K and Ladakh into deep violence".

Neither the Pakistan-exported terrorism stopped nor did violence cease, Surjewala alleged.

"Neither ceasefire violation by Pakistani Army stopped nor was the prime minister with 56-inch chest able to stop Pakistan from exporting extremists," the Congress leader added. 
&nbsp;

Days after the dissolution of the Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress demanded that elections be held in the state as early as possible to "restore" democracy, as it termed the Governor's rule in the state as "Modi rule".

Days after the dissolution of the Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir, the Congress demanded that elections be held in the state as early as possible to "restore" democracy, as it termed the Governor's rule in the state as "Modi rule". Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed the Governor's rule in the state as a "de facto Modi rule". "The Governor's (Satya Pal Malik) rule in Kashmir is (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi rule. It is BJP rule," he told reporters here. "BJP, in collusion with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), ran the show in J&K and Ladakh from behind the curtain. It is all the more important today that democracy is restored there," Surjewala said. "Only elections can pave the way for formation of people's government in J&K," he said, adding, "So Modi-ji and the Governor should get elections held as soon as possible." "This is our direct and clear demand," Surjewala said. The Governor abruptly dissolved the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Wednesday night, hours after the PDP staked claim to form a government with the backing of rival NC and the Congress. This was followed by another bid from the two-member People's Conference which claimed the support of the BJP and 18 legislators from other parties. Besides slamming the move, Surjewala also targeted the Modi government for "pushing J&K and Ladakh into deep violence". Neither the Pakistan-exported terrorism stopped nor did violence cease, Surjewala alleged. "Neither ceasefire violation by Pakistani Army stopped nor was the prime minister with 56-inch chest able to stop Pakistan from exporting extremists," the Congress leader added.

Governor rule in J&K 'de facto' Modi rule, says Congress as it seeks fresh polls soon

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Friday launched year-long celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, and called upon people to set aside their religious and political differences to join his government in making it memorable.

Addressing a large gathering in Sultanpur Lodhi in Kapurthala district, where Nanak Dev spent over 14 years of his early life, Singh exhorted the people to reconnect with his teachings, principles and ideals.

Greeting people on the occasion of 'Gurpurab', he invited people from across the world to participate in the celebrations.

As part of the celebrations, Punjab Governor V P Singh Badnore inaugurated an exhibition, 'From Rabab to Nagara', curated by historian Mohinder Singh, the director of Delhi-based National Institute of Punjab Studies.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and many senior Congress leaders, including Asha Kumari and Sunil Jakhar, were present on the occasion.

Manmohan Singh, Badnore and the chief minister laid the foundation stones of 26 development projects worth Rs 150 crore on the occasion.

The projects included upgrade of infrastructure in the historic towns of Sultanpur Lodhi, Dera Baba Nanak and Batala.

The chief minister also announced projects and welfare schemes to the tune of Rs 3,312 crore to help pilgrims and to commemorate the historic occasion.

Guru Nanak Dev was born in 1469. His 549th birth anniversary falls on Friday.

Noting that considerations of caste, creed and inequality are again rampant in the society, he said, "We need to rise above these on the path shown by Guru Sahib. If Punjab has to regain its number one position in the country, we need to maintain 'bhai-chara' (brotherhood) and 'saanjh' (amity) and not get divided on different lines."

"The Punjab government will observe the event as a non-political and bi-partisan affair," the chief minister said.

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union government for acceding to various requests of the state government with regard to the celebrations.

He hailed the Centre's decision to develop the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor from Punjab's Gurdaspur district to the International Border to facilitate Indian pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan.

He said a long-pending demand of Punjab was on the verge of fulfilment and on November 26, he would join the President to lay the foundation stone of the corridor.

He also thanked the Government of Pakistan for reciprocating on the issue and said his government would also contribute, as may be required, to ensure timely completion of the project.

Addressing the gathering, former prime minister Manmohan Singh expressed gratitude to Amarinder Singh and his government for giving him the opportunity to be part of this special moment.

He expressed hope that all would rise above petty considerations of communalism and hatred to celebrate the event in a befitting manner. 
The former prime minister exhorted the people to participate in the year-long celebrations with full enthusiasm and gaiety, regardless of caste, colour, creed and religion.

Governor Badnore said it was a matter of pride for him to be part of the auspicious occasion. He called for universal brotherhood as the key message of the commemorative events.

Badnore said the Railway Ministry would run special trains on the religious circuit relating to the life of Guru Nanak Dev for the convenience of the pilgrims.

Former Indian cricketer Kapil Dev, who was also present, presented a book, 'We the Sikhs around the world', relating to 100 Gurdwaras across the globe, to Manmohan Singh, Badnore and Amarinder Singh.

Earlier, Manmohan Singh, along with his wife Gursharan Kaur, Badnore and Amarinder Singh paid obeisance at the historic Gurdwara Ber Sahib here. 
Former Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal also paid obeisance at Gurdwara Ber Sahib.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Friday launched year-long celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, and called upon people to set aside their religious and political differences to join his government in making it memorable.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh Friday launched year-long celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, and called upon people to set aside their religious and political differences to join his government in making it memorable. Addressing a large gathering in Sultanpur Lodhi in Kapurthala district, where Nanak Dev spent over 14 years of his early life, Singh exhorted the people to reconnect with his teachings, principles and ideals. Greeting people on the occasion of 'Gurpurab', he invited people from across the world to participate in the celebrations. As part of the celebrations, Punjab Governor V P Singh Badnore inaugurated an exhibition, 'From Rabab to Nagara', curated by historian Mohinder Singh, the director of Delhi-based National Institute of Punjab Studies. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and many senior Congress leaders, including Asha Kumari and Sunil Jakhar, were present on the occasion. Manmohan Singh, Badnore and the chief minister laid the foundation stones of 26 development projects worth Rs 150 crore on the occasion. The projects included upgrade of infrastructure in the historic towns of Sultanpur Lodhi, Dera Baba Nanak and Batala. The chief minister also announced projects and welfare schemes to the tune of Rs 3,312 crore to help pilgrims and to commemorate the historic occasion. Guru Nanak Dev was born in 1469. His 549th birth anniversary falls on Friday. Noting that considerations of caste, creed and inequality are again rampant in the society, he said, "We need to rise above these on the path shown by Guru Sahib. If Punjab has to regain its number one position in the country, we need to maintain 'bhai-chara' (brotherhood) and 'saanjh' (amity) and not get divided on different lines." "The Punjab government will observe the event as a non-political and bi-partisan affair," the chief minister said. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union government for acceding to various requests of the state government with regard to the celebrations. He hailed the Centre's decision to develop the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor from Punjab's Gurdaspur district to the International Border to facilitate Indian pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan. He said a long-pending demand of Punjab was on the verge of fulfilment and on November 26, he would join the President to lay the foundation stone of the corridor. He also thanked the Government of Pakistan for reciprocating on the issue and said his government would also contribute, as may be required, to ensure timely completion of the project. Addressing the gathering, former prime minister Manmohan Singh expressed gratitude to Amarinder Singh and his government for giving him the opportunity to be part of this special moment. He expressed hope that all would rise above petty considerations of communalism and hatred to celebrate the event in a befitting manner. The former prime minister exhorted the people to participate in the year-long celebrations with full enthusiasm and gaiety, regardless of caste, colour, creed and religion. Governor Badnore said it was a matter of pride for him to be part of the auspicious occasion. He called for universal brotherhood as the key message of the commemorative events. Badnore said the Railway Ministry would run special trains on the religious circuit relating to the life of Guru Nanak Dev for the convenience of the pilgrims. Former Indian cricketer Kapil Dev, who was also present, presented a book, 'We the Sikhs around the world', relating to 100 Gurdwaras across the globe, to Manmohan Singh, Badnore and Amarinder Singh. Earlier, Manmohan Singh, along with his wife Gursharan Kaur, Badnore and Amarinder Singh paid obeisance at the historic Gurdwara Ber Sahib here. Former Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal also paid obeisance at Gurdwara Ber Sahib.

Amarinder launches year-long celebrations of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev

Taking a dig at the Congress for not declaring its chief ministerial face for the November 28 Madhya Pradesh assembly polls, BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday said the opposition party was an army without a commander in the state.

Shah also slammed former prime minister Manmohan Singh over his recent criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and claimed that the latter had enhanced the country's prestige in the world.

"In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP is contesting the election under the leadership of Shivraj Singh Chouhan. But who is the chief ministerial face of the Congress?... It is an army without a commander," the BJP chief said at an election rally in Seoni district's Lakhnadon.

"Who is the commander of the (Congress) army? A king, an emperor and a tired industrialist...Rahul (Gandhi) should tell which of these is the commander of the army," Shah said, in an apparent reference to Congress leaders Digvijaya Singh, Jyotiraditya Scindia and Kamal Nath respectively.

Targeting Manmohan Singh, he claimed that the former prime minister visited more foreign countries than Modi, but the latter's visits get noticed as he is warmly welcomed by the Indian diaspora abroad.

"I heard Kamal Nath was saying that Modiji goes abroad quite often. Even I felt that he goes very often. But then I thought I must check the record of the prime minister's visits abroad and I found that he has visited fewer countries than Singh," Shah said.

"A journalist then informed me that when Singh used to go abroad, he used to carry two typed speeches in English and sometimes he used to read in Malaysia the speech meant to be read in Thailand and the one meant for Malaysia in Thailand. Neither the people of that country nor the people here would get to know about it," he added.

The BJP president said when Modi visited countries like the US, China, Japan, France, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, among others, he was welcomed amidst chants of 'Modi, Modi'.

"This is neither to welcome Modi, nor a BJP leader, but it is meant for the people of Madhya Pradesh and the country's 125 crore people. Modi has raised the country's prestige in the world," Shah said.&nbsp;

Taking a dig at the Congress for not declaring its chief ministerial face for the November 28 Madhya Pradesh assembly polls, BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday said the opposition party was an army without a commander in the state.

Taking a dig at the Congress for not declaring its chief ministerial face for the November 28 Madhya Pradesh assembly polls, BJP chief Amit Shah on Friday said the opposition party was an army without a commander in the state. Shah also slammed former prime minister Manmohan Singh over his recent criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and claimed that the latter had enhanced the country's prestige in the world. "In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP is contesting the election under the leadership of Shivraj Singh Chouhan. But who is the chief ministerial face of the Congress?... It is an army without a commander," the BJP chief said at an election rally in Seoni district's Lakhnadon. "Who is the commander of the (Congress) army? A king, an emperor and a tired industrialist...Rahul (Gandhi) should tell which of these is the commander of the army," Shah said, in an apparent reference to Congress leaders Digvijaya Singh, Jyotiraditya Scindia and Kamal Nath respectively. Targeting Manmohan Singh, he claimed that the former prime minister visited more foreign countries than Modi, but the latter's visits get noticed as he is warmly welcomed by the Indian diaspora abroad. "I heard Kamal Nath was saying that Modiji goes abroad quite often. Even I felt that he goes very often. But then I thought I must check the record of the prime minister's visits abroad and I found that he has visited fewer countries than Singh," Shah said. "A journalist then informed me that when Singh used to go abroad, he used to carry two typed speeches in English and sometimes he used to read in Malaysia the speech meant to be read in Thailand and the one meant for Malaysia in Thailand. Neither the people of that country nor the people here would get to know about it," he added. The BJP president said when Modi visited countries like the US, China, Japan, France, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, among others, he was welcomed amidst chants of 'Modi, Modi'. "This is neither to welcome Modi, nor a BJP leader, but it is meant for the people of Madhya Pradesh and the country's 125 crore people. Modi has raised the country's prestige in the world," Shah said.

Congress is an army without commander in MP: BJP chief Amit Shah

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi.

Babbar made the controversial remark while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh's Indore city on Thursday. Madhya Pradesh goes to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11.

"(Before becoming the prime minister) Modi used to say that compared to the (US) dollar, the value of the rupee has fallen to a level where it is almost the same as the age of the then Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh)," Babbar, the Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, said.

"Mr Prime Minister, at that time, you had not taken his (Manmohan Singh) name out of respect. Although our tradition does not allow this, we wish to say that now the value of the rupee has fallen to the age of your respected mother," he added.

Modi's mother, Hiraba, is a nonagenarian.

The rupee has seen a continued fall against the US dollar this year, hovering a little over the 70-mark on Friday.

The BJP condemned Babbar's remark.

The party's national spokesperson Sambit Patra said it was not proper to use unparliamentary words or drag any person's mother into politics.

"But the Congress' attitude against the Prime Minister's mother has been improper from the beginning and such language was used even against the Prime Minister," Patra claimed.

"Rahul Gandhi should apologise and he should clarify whether he endorses such controversial statements," he said.&nbsp;

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi.

Congress leader Raj Babbar's remark comparing the rupee's falling value against the US dollar with the age of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mother kicked up a controversy on Friday, with the BJP demanding an apology from the opposition party's president Rahul Gandhi. Babbar made the controversial remark while addressing a rally in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh's Indore city on Thursday. Madhya Pradesh goes to polls on November 28 and results will be declared on December 11. "(Before becoming the prime minister) Modi used to say that compared to the (US) dollar, the value of the rupee has fallen to a level where it is almost the same as the age of the then Prime Minister (Manmohan Singh)," Babbar, the Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, said. "Mr Prime Minister, at that time, you had not taken his (Manmohan Singh) name out of respect. Although our tradition does not allow this, we wish to say that now the value of the rupee has fallen to the age of your respected mother," he added. Modi's mother, Hiraba, is a nonagenarian. The rupee has seen a continued fall against the US dollar this year, hovering a little over the 70-mark on Friday. The BJP condemned Babbar's remark. The party's national spokesperson Sambit Patra said it was not proper to use unparliamentary words or drag any person's mother into politics. "But the Congress' attitude against the Prime Minister's mother has been improper from the beginning and such language was used even against the Prime Minister," Patra claimed. "Rahul Gandhi should apologise and he should clarify whether he endorses such controversial statements," he said.

Babbar compares rupee's falling value with age of Modi's mother, BJP demands apology

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are afflicted with a "disease" that has caused "communal madness" and prompted them to block enhanced job quotas for Muslims in Telangana, TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao said Friday, as poll-time rhetoric got shriller and nastier.

Rao, the caretaker chief minister, slammed the Centre for keeping on hold a decision on raising reservations for Muslims and Scheduled Tribes from 4 to 12 per cent and 6 to 10 per cent in state government jobs and educational institutions despite the state assembly passing a resolution.

"Narendra Modi and the BJP have a disease...In everything they see, they see Hindu-Muslim (divide). They don't see anything else and so they did not do it (raise the quotas)...They have kept it pending," he told an election rally at Narsampet.

Addressing another election meeting in Mahabubabad, the TRS president repeated his charge and accused the Centre of "religious madness".

"Narendra Modi government has a disease. That is minorities (versus) Hindus...They are in that state of 'mataparamaina pichi' (communal madness)). It is because of this they blocked reservations for STs and Muslims," he said.

Rao said he will ensure that the demand for raising the quotas was accepted if people elected TRS candidates from all the 17 Lok Sabha seats of Telangana next year.

"Not only the Assembly elections...With kindness, help us win all 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana. Only if we win can we make Delhi bend its neck.&nbsp;We will get our ST reservation, we will get our Muslim reservation," he said.

The TRS leader claimed both the BJP and the Congress wanted to exercise complete control over the states.

"It doesn't matter which of the two parties forms the government at the Centre. Their attitude is the same. Both Congress and the BJP want to concentrate all powers over states into their hands. This is their culture," he said.

Rao once again batted for a non-Congress, non-BJP "federal front" government at the Centre to end that culture.

The TRS chief, who has been assailing the Congress-led opposition coalition that includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's TDP, asked people at his Narasampet rally whether Telangana needed Naidu. He has been accusing Naidu of stalling the development of&nbsp;Telangana when it was part of undivided Andhra Pradesh.

He hit out at the Congress for merging the Telangana region with Andhra against the wishes of the people of Telangana. He also accused the Congress government of suppressing the agitation for a separate Telangana in 1969.

Rao said Congress leaders were silent when "injustice" was being done to Telangana region in undivided Andhra Pradesh and were trying to bring Naidu back to Telangana now.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are afflicted with a "disease" that has caused "communal madness" and prompted them to block enhanced job quotas for Muslims in Telangana, TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao said Friday, as poll-time rhetoric got shriller and nastier.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are afflicted with a "disease" that has caused "communal madness" and prompted them to block enhanced job quotas for Muslims in Telangana, TRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao said Friday, as poll-time rhetoric got shriller and nastier. Rao, the caretaker chief minister, slammed the Centre for keeping on hold a decision on raising reservations for Muslims and Scheduled Tribes from 4 to 12 per cent and 6 to 10 per cent in state government jobs and educational institutions despite the state assembly passing a resolution. "Narendra Modi and the BJP have a disease...In everything they see, they see Hindu-Muslim (divide). They don't see anything else and so they did not do it (raise the quotas)...They have kept it pending," he told an election rally at Narsampet. Addressing another election meeting in Mahabubabad, the TRS president repeated his charge and accused the Centre of "religious madness". "Narendra Modi government has a disease. That is minorities (versus) Hindus...They are in that state of 'mataparamaina pichi' (communal madness)). It is because of this they blocked reservations for STs and Muslims," he said. Rao said he will ensure that the demand for raising the quotas was accepted if people elected TRS candidates from all the 17 Lok Sabha seats of Telangana next year. "Not only the Assembly elections...With kindness, help us win all 17 Lok Sabha seats in Telangana. Only if we win can we make Delhi bend its neck. We will get our ST reservation, we will get our Muslim reservation," he said. The TRS leader claimed both the BJP and the Congress wanted to exercise complete control over the states. "It doesn't matter which of the two parties forms the government at the Centre. Their attitude is the same. Both Congress and the BJP want to concentrate all powers over states into their hands. This is their culture," he said. Rao once again batted for a non-Congress, non-BJP "federal front" government at the Centre to end that culture. The TRS chief, who has been assailing the Congress-led opposition coalition that includes Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's TDP, asked people at his Narasampet rally whether Telangana needed Naidu. He has been accusing Naidu of stalling the development of Telangana when it was part of undivided Andhra Pradesh. He hit out at the Congress for merging the Telangana region with Andhra against the wishes of the people of Telangana. He also accused the Congress government of suppressing the agitation for a separate Telangana in 1969. Rao said Congress leaders were silent when "injustice" was being done to Telangana region in undivided Andhra Pradesh and were trying to bring Naidu back to Telangana now.

Modi has the 'disease' that causes 'communal madness': Rao

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections.

Addressing a campaign rally in Madhya Pradesh for the November 28 upcoming&nbsp;Assembly polls, Gandhi said Modi's speeches used to be about corruption, farmers and unemployment.

"Today, he doesn't say anything on these issues. People of the country have realised that there is no substance in what Modi speaks. All his assurances are false," Gandhi said.

"Before 2014, Narendra Modi promised loan waiver, bonus and better price for farmers' produce; I want to ask him why were the assurances not fulfilled," he said.

When the Congress forms the next government in Madhya Pradesh, the chief minister will work for 18 hours a day to provide employment to youth, Gandhi said.

"Unemployment and farm crisis are rampant in all the poll-bound states," he said, adding the government has told Parliament that only 450 youth get jobs per day in India, as against 50,000 in China in the same period.

Gandhi promised loan waiver to farmers "within 10 days of coming to power" in Madhya Pradesh and making the state an "agriculture hub" of the country.

The Congress leader said the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state destroyed the education sector with Vyapam, the entrance examination, admission and recruitment scam unearthed in Madhya Pradesh in 2013.

On the Rafale deal, Gandhi said Modi gave Rs 30,000 crore benefit to industrialist Anil Ambani by taking away the contract from the state-owned aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

"Even BJP leaders Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie have said due processes were not followed in the Rafale deal. The CBI director was about to start a probe into the Rafale scam but he was removed from his post at 2 am," Gandhi said.

"If a probe is carried out, only two names, that of Modi and Anil Ambani, would figure in it," he said.

Gandhi said,"Modi speaks of surgical strikes. The fighter aircraft used in the strikes were manufactured at HAL, while Ambani doesn't have any experience of making aircraft".

"Ambani has a debt of Rs 45,000 crore and is yet to repay the money given to him by public sector banks, he said.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday said Indians have realised that there is no substance in what Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks, adding the latter is mum on the issues he spoke about before the 2014 elections. Addressing a campaign rally in Madhya Pradesh for the November 28 upcoming Assembly polls, Gandhi said Modi's speeches used to be about corruption, farmers and unemployment. "Today, he doesn't say anything on these issues. People of the country have realised that there is no substance in what Modi speaks. All his assurances are false," Gandhi said. "Before 2014, Narendra Modi promised loan waiver, bonus and better price for farmers' produce; I want to ask him why were the assurances not fulfilled," he said. When the Congress forms the next government in Madhya Pradesh, the chief minister will work for 18 hours a day to provide employment to youth, Gandhi said. "Unemployment and farm crisis are rampant in all the poll-bound states," he said, adding the government has told Parliament that only 450 youth get jobs per day in India, as against 50,000 in China in the same period. Gandhi promised loan waiver to farmers "within 10 days of coming to power" in Madhya Pradesh and making the state an "agriculture hub" of the country. The Congress leader said the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state destroyed the education sector with Vyapam, the entrance examination, admission and recruitment scam unearthed in Madhya Pradesh in 2013. On the Rafale deal, Gandhi said Modi gave Rs 30,000 crore benefit to industrialist Anil Ambani by taking away the contract from the state-owned aerospace company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). "Even BJP leaders Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie have said due processes were not followed in the Rafale deal. The CBI director was about to start a probe into the Rafale scam but he was removed from his post at 2 am," Gandhi said. "If a probe is carried out, only two names, that of Modi and Anil Ambani, would figure in it," he said. Gandhi said,"Modi speaks of surgical strikes. The fighter aircraft used in the strikes were manufactured at HAL, while Ambani doesn't have any experience of making aircraft". "Ambani has a debt of Rs 45,000 crore and is yet to repay the money given to him by public sector banks, he said.

No substance in what Modi speaks, says Rahul Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed Congress party on Friday as he said that he feels a deep sense of anguish when he sees the leaders of opposition party "abusing" northeast culture by calling its dress outlandish.&nbsp;

PM Modi was speaking at a campaign rally at Lunglei in poll-bound state Mizoram.

He said, "In the last four years the BJP Government at the Centre has worked for greater recognition and spread of Indian culture and traditions, far and wide. But I feel a deep sense of anguish when I see the leaders of Congress abuse the same traditions."

"You might remember how a few months back, Congress leaders insulted the traditional attire of northeast. The attire given to me at different places in the northeast, is termed outlandish by them," PM Modi added.

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You might remember how a few months back, Congress leaders insulted the traditional attire of north east. The attire given to me at different places in north east, is termed outlandish by them. They speak a lot when they come here but this is their reality: PM in Lunglei, Mizoram <a href="https://t.co/XDNtVWUz8o">pic.twitter.com/XDNtVWUz8o</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1065854775500161027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"They speak a lot when they come here but this is their reality."&nbsp;

Addressing the gathering he also said that the country has understood Congress's "divide and rule" policy and that is why now they are confined to few states.

PM Modi further said that his government is focused on connectivity and "Transformation through transportation" is their agenda for Mizoram's development.

"India's development is possible when this region is developed. BJP is dedicated to the development of the northeast. We're focussing on connectivity, highway, railway, airway and waterway. 'Transformation through Transportation' our agenda for this region's development," said PM Modi.

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India's development is possible when this region is developed.BJP is dedicated to development of north east.We're focussing on connectivity, highway, railway, airway&amp;waterway. 'Transformation through Transportation' our agenda for this region's development: PM in Lunglei, Mizoram <a href="https://t.co/3E07Sc506y">pic.twitter.com/3E07Sc506y</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1065857766873579520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Election to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly will be held on November 28.&nbsp;

Mizoram is the only state in the northeastern region where the Congress is in power.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed Congress party on Friday as he said that he feels a deep sense of anguish when he sees the leaders of opposition party "abusing" northeast culture by calling its dress outlandish.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed Congress party on Friday as he said that he feels a deep sense of anguish when he sees the leaders of opposition party "abusing" northeast culture by calling its dress outlandish. PM Modi was speaking at a campaign rally at Lunglei in poll-bound state Mizoram. He said, "In the last four years the BJP Government at the Centre has worked for greater recognition and spread of Indian culture and traditions, far and wide. But I feel a deep sense of anguish when I see the leaders of Congress abuse the same traditions." "You might remember how a few months back, Congress leaders insulted the traditional attire of northeast. The attire given to me at different places in the northeast, is termed outlandish by them," PM Modi added. You might remember how a few months back, Congress leaders insulted the traditional attire of north east. The attire given to me at different places in north east, is termed outlandish by them. They speak a lot when they come here but this is their reality: PM in Lunglei, Mizoram pic.twitter.com/XDNtVWUz8o — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2018 × "They speak a lot when they come here but this is their reality." Addressing the gathering he also said that the country has understood Congress's "divide and rule" policy and that is why now they are confined to few states. PM Modi further said that his government is focused on connectivity and "Transformation through transportation" is their agenda for Mizoram's development. "India's development is possible when this region is developed. BJP is dedicated to the development of the northeast. We're focussing on connectivity, highway, railway, airway and waterway. 'Transformation through Transportation' our agenda for this region's development," said PM Modi. India's development is possible when this region is developed.BJP is dedicated to development of north east.We're focussing on connectivity, highway, railway, airway&waterway. 'Transformation through Transportation' our agenda for this region's development: PM in Lunglei, Mizoram pic.twitter.com/3E07Sc506y — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2018 × Election to the 40-member Mizoram Assembly will be held on November 28. Mizoram is the only state in the northeastern region where the Congress is in power.

Congress leaders insulted traditional attire of northeast, says PM Modi in Mizoram poll rally

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday 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 <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-govt-refusal-to-order-a-jpc-probe-on-rafale-deal-means-there-is-something-wrong-manmohan-singh-178583">the allegation</a> at a news conference in Indore ahead of the Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh on November 28.

The BJP rejected Singh's charge while the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) did not react.

The BJP alleged that Singh's Congress-led government in its 10-year rule had always put pressure on institutions like the CBI while the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi "respects" institutions and does not interfere in their functioning.

"Nobody is harming or weakening any institution. It is our government that is giving them independence to express their views and in economic policy. Singh should know that there are always difference of opinion and there are multiple options in research allocation," BJP spokesperson Gopal Krishna Agarwal said in New Delhi.

In a veiled reference to developments in the RBI and CBI, Singh said the Modi government is trying to prevail over big institutions, adding this was detrimental to democracy and the law of the land.

"The country has witnessed credibility of institutions like Parliament and CBI systematically denigrated. There is a careful, well-thought-out and calibrated effort to weaken democracy," he said.

"The rule of law is under attack. History shall never forgive our present generation if the situation is not changed," he added.

Alleging that the relationship between the RBI and the Finance Ministry has hit a low, the former Union finance minister said there is a need for "harmony and coordination".

"The RBI governor and finance minister have a delicate relationship. Both have to work together. Even though the job of running the country rests with the government, specific responsibility is given to the RBI governor by the RBI Act. There is a need to recognise inter-dependence of the two entities and work in harmony," he said.

"I am happy with the efforts being made to bring reconciliation. Both need to work in harmony with each other."

Singh termed demonetisation as "organised loot and legalised plunder". "This is a done act and can't be reverted. It is up to the people to get rid of the government which brought them on this disastrous path," he said.

The note ban and the "flawed" Goods and Services Tax (GST) of the NDA government have caused a "great damage" to the unorganised sector, Singh said. "The note ban failed to achieve its goal."

Singh also alleged that corruption was peaking in the Modi government.

Asked about his 2014 comments that Modi as prime minister would be a disaster to the country, he said he did not want to comment on his earlier remarks. "I used harsh words which I should not have. Now people will make the decision," he added.

Singh accused Modi of misusing the prime minister's post. "It does not befit the PM to abuse political opponents," he said, adding Modi was using "unparliamentary words" against the opposition.

On the controversial Rafale deal, he said it needs a thorough investigation through a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe. "Modi is not going in for the constitution of the JPC, which gives an impression that something is amiss", he said, adding this has given rise to a "great deal of suspicion" in the minds of people.

On steps needed to improve the economy, Singh said infrastructure investment should increase and national savings rate should be encouraged.

"In our (Congress-led regime) time, the national saving rate was 35 to 36 per cent. Now it is 28 per cent," he said. If the GDP rate needs to grow to 10 per cent, the national savings rate and infrastructure investment needs to grow, he added.

Asked if the Congress will be able to revive itself, Singh said the party faced problems since the 2014 elections.

"The reason was the ability of the opposition to mislead the media and the general public about the so-called corruption and we were not able to carry the conviction to convey our point of view," he said.

Singh denied Modi's claim that the UPA government led by him was a "remote-controlled" one.

"The success of my government was because the party and government were on one page. There was no difference of opinion," he said.

The BJP promised to bring back money stashed in banks abroad but this turned out to be a hollow claim, he said.

The Modi government's "Make in India" programme has proved to be just a jumla (stunt), he said.

The BJP-led government promised to generate two crore jobs annually but this has turned out to a gimmick, he said.

He also rubbished Modi's claim that the UPA government discriminated against Madhya Pradesh. "Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should stand a witness to it," he said.

"Vyapam (an entrance examination, admission and recruitment scam unearthed in Madhya Pradesh in 2013) marred the future of the state's youth, while Narmada river has been plundered by the sand mafia," Singh added.&nbsp;

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday 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".

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh Wednesday 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. The BJP rejected Singh's charge while the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) did not react. The BJP alleged that Singh's Congress-led government in its 10-year rule had always put pressure on institutions like the CBI while the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi "respects" institutions and does not interfere in their functioning. "Nobody is harming or weakening any institution. It is our government that is giving them independence to express their views and in economic policy. Singh should know that there are always difference of opinion and there are multiple options in research allocation," BJP spokesperson Gopal Krishna Agarwal said in New Delhi. In a veiled reference to developments in the RBI and CBI, Singh said the Modi government is trying to prevail over big institutions, adding this was detrimental to democracy and the law of the land. "The country has witnessed credibility of institutions like Parliament and CBI systematically denigrated. There is a careful, well-thought-out and calibrated effort to weaken democracy," he said. "The rule of law is under attack. History shall never forgive our present generation if the situation is not changed," he added. Alleging that the relationship between the RBI and the Finance Ministry has hit a low, the former Union finance minister said there is a need for "harmony and coordination". "The RBI governor and finance minister have a delicate relationship. Both have to work together. Even though the job of running the country rests with the government, specific responsibility is given to the RBI governor by the RBI Act. There is a need to recognise inter-dependence of the two entities and work in harmony," he said. "I am happy with the efforts being made to bring reconciliation. Both need to work in harmony with each other." Singh termed demonetisation as "organised loot and legalised plunder". "This is a done act and can't be reverted. It is up to the people to get rid of the government which brought them on this disastrous path," he said. The note ban and the "flawed" Goods and Services Tax (GST) of the NDA government have caused a "great damage" to the unorganised sector, Singh said. "The note ban failed to achieve its goal." Singh also alleged that corruption was peaking in the Modi government. Asked about his 2014 comments that Modi as prime minister would be a disaster to the country, he said he did not want to comment on his earlier remarks. "I used harsh words which I should not have. Now people will make the decision," he added. Singh accused Modi of misusing the prime minister's post. "It does not befit the PM to abuse political opponents," he said, adding Modi was using "unparliamentary words" against the opposition. On the controversial Rafale deal, he said it needs a thorough investigation through a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe. "Modi is not going in for the constitution of the JPC, which gives an impression that something is amiss", he said, adding this has given rise to a "great deal of suspicion" in the minds of people. On steps needed to improve the economy, Singh said infrastructure investment should increase and national savings rate should be encouraged. "In our (Congress-led regime) time, the national saving rate was 35 to 36 per cent. Now it is 28 per cent," he said. If the GDP rate needs to grow to 10 per cent, the national savings rate and infrastructure investment needs to grow, he added. Asked if the Congress will be able to revive itself, Singh said the party faced problems since the 2014 elections. "The reason was the ability of the opposition to mislead the media and the general public about the so-called corruption and we were not able to carry the conviction to convey our point of view," he said. Singh denied Modi's claim that the UPA government led by him was a "remote-controlled" one. "The success of my government was because the party and government were on one page. There was no difference of opinion," he said. The BJP promised to bring back money stashed in banks abroad but this turned out to be a hollow claim, he said. The Modi government's "Make in India" programme has proved to be just a jumla (stunt), he said. The BJP-led government promised to generate two crore jobs annually but this has turned out to a gimmick, he said. He also rubbished Modi's claim that the UPA government discriminated against Madhya Pradesh. "Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should stand a witness to it," he said. "Vyapam (an entrance examination, admission and recruitment scam unearthed in Madhya Pradesh in 2013) marred the future of the state's youth, while Narmada river has been plundered by the sand mafia," Singh added.

Modi govt making 'calibrated effort' to weaken democracy: Manmohan Singh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected.

Addressing a poll rally in Rewa, PM Modi reminded voters that Madhya Pradesh has a "double-engine" as BJP is in power in the state and the centre.

Targeting the Nehru-Gandhi family, PM Modi said, "History proves that no dynasty prevails after its fourth generation rule in Delhi and Congress will also meet the same fate".

PM Modi urged people to think for a moment before voting about what Congress has done for them compared to 15 years of BJP rule in the state.

Asking people to be active participants in the development process, PM Modi said, "If people work for 10 hours, then I will work for 11 hours for the country's progress".

PM Modi credited Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan with developing the state. "He is in power for the last 15 years but effectively got only four and a half years as, during rest of the period, the state always fought with the Centre for its rights in the UPA-led regime at the Centre, he said.

"In 55 years (of Congress rule), only 30 MW green energy was generated (in the state) while in our 15-year rule, 4,000 MW renewable energy is being generated," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asked people to vote intelligently in the November 28 Assembly poll, asking them to ensure that "not even a single Congress candidate" is elected. Addressing a poll rally in Rewa, PM Modi reminded voters that Madhya Pradesh has a "double-engine" as BJP is in power in the state and the centre. Targeting the Nehru-Gandhi family, PM Modi said, "History proves that no dynasty prevails after its fourth generation rule in Delhi and Congress will also meet the same fate". PM Modi urged people to think for a moment before voting about what Congress has done for them compared to 15 years of BJP rule in the state. Asking people to be active participants in the development process, PM Modi said, "If people work for 10 hours, then I will work for 11 hours for the country's progress". PM Modi credited Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan with developing the state. "He is in power for the last 15 years but effectively got only four and a half years as, during rest of the period, the state always fought with the Centre for its rights in the UPA-led regime at the Centre, he said. "In 55 years (of Congress rule), only 30 MW green energy was generated (in the state) while in our 15-year rule, 4,000 MW renewable energy is being generated," he said.

Make sure no Congress candidate is elected: PM Narendra Modi to Madhya Pradesh voters

Contrary to conventional notions of a harmonious diplomatic relationship, there is a sharp difference in the way Nepal and India view each other. Following Independence, India emulated Britain’s approach in having a treaty-based relationship with Nepal, which led to Nepal’s grudging acceptance of India’s dominion.&nbsp;

To be sure, China’s engagement in Nepal is not new. More importantly—and contrary to how it is portrayed in Nepal—it is not entirely positive. However, the engagement is crucial, since China’s newfound economic power is as yet unmatched.

This challenges India’s privileged position in Nepal. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken various initiatives and has indicated that he intends to address Nepal’s concerns regarding India.

Nepal’s eagerness to engage with China has been of interest to observers and largely misinterpreted as Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli’s strategy to acquire more from India.&nbsp;

However, the current approach fits perfectly in Nepal’s long tradition of pursuing a diversified foreign policy and partners, taking advantage of its key geostrategic position. Oli’s government aims to keep Nepal’s relationship with China independent of the one it shares with India. The question to ask is whether Nepal will be able to achieve this, given India’s discomfort with the increasing Chinese proximity.

New Delhi was for long perceived in Kathmandu as “hawkish” in dealing with sensitive matters.&nbsp;

The most notable instances of this include different river treaties, reluctance to respond to regular border-encroachment complaints, high-structure build-up along the border, inundation complaints, trade and transit crises and embargoes.

There are historical reasons that explain the dynamics of the Indo-Nepal bilateral relationship. To maintain a sphere of influence, India needs sufficient soft power, as well as hard power, along with the confidence to act.&nbsp;

Indeed, the nature of India-Nepal relations has always been a mixed bag. Due to its provisions and protocols, the 1950 treaty quickly became controversial and set the conflictive tone of the bilateral relationship. The provisions of the 1950 Indo-Nepal Peace and Friendship Treaty constrained Nepal as an ally and a state under India’s security umbrella.&nbsp;

Given the asymmetrical size of the two countries, and Nepal’s reservations towards India due to the treaty-based unequal treatment, the open border has always been a crucial area of contention, except for communities and business groups that benefit from it directly.

Nepal’s largest trading partner is India (the total trade accounting for 65 per cent), with whom Nepal runs the largest trade deficit. There was an improvement following the amendment of the trade commerce treaty with India in 1996, as exports increased and the deficit dropped.&nbsp;

While, on paper, Nepal remains an ally of India, it has constitutionally asserted that its foreign policy is “based on the Charter of the United Nations, non-alignment, principles of Panchsheel (and) international law.”

Despite Oli’s “ultranationalist” election rhetoric, he has responded positively to Modi’s and Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj’s overtures. Modi and Oli have established a relationship of trust, negotiating some important agreements during their visits. The agreement on the controversial Arun III hydel project, and their cooperation in revitalising the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation or BIMSTEC, are some of these indicators.&nbsp;

The recent joint communiqués between India and Nepal seem to have all the right words and tone for a constructive move forward in their bilateral relations. Immediately after the successive visits of Modi and Oli to Nepal, there has been unprecedented progress in several areas.&nbsp;

Regarding China’s inroads into Nepal, an option for India would be to defend the status quo by attempting to block Nepal’s options to diversify its cooperation with neighbours, through projects such as the infrastructure development by Chinese investment.&nbsp;

India must introduce new economic, developmental and infrastructure initiatives with Nepal that will not only bring tangible benefits to Nepali citizens, but also address the vulnerabilities that will emerge in Nepal as the country engages with China.&nbsp;

As things are, Nepal cannot dispense with its reliance on India. India is and will remain vital for the country in many ways. However, Nepal is now a member of China’s massive BRI, which puts India in a difficult position.&nbsp;

Disregarding India’s traditional muscular diplomacy, PM Modi seems to have been following this line of cooperative diplomacy. The results are evident: the rapport between Modi and Oli, and Nepal’s increasing cooperation in Modi’s initiatives, which would have been impossible just a year ago. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pm-modi-has-changed-tack-cooperated-closely-with-nepal-2687307">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Contrary to conventional notions of a harmonious diplomatic relationship, there is a sharp difference in the way Nepal and India view each other. Following Independence, India emulated Britain’s approach in having a treaty-based relationship with Nepal, which led to Nepal’s grudging acceptance of India’s dominion.

Contrary to conventional notions of a harmonious diplomatic relationship, there is a sharp difference in the way Nepal and India view each other. Following Independence, India emulated Britain’s approach in having a treaty-based relationship with Nepal, which led to Nepal’s grudging acceptance of India’s dominion. To be sure, China’s engagement in Nepal is not new. More importantly—and contrary to how it is portrayed in Nepal—it is not entirely positive. However, the engagement is crucial, since China’s newfound economic power is as yet unmatched. This challenges India’s privileged position in Nepal. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken various initiatives and has indicated that he intends to address Nepal’s concerns regarding India. Nepal’s eagerness to engage with China has been of interest to observers and largely misinterpreted as Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli’s strategy to acquire more from India. However, the current approach fits perfectly in Nepal’s long tradition of pursuing a diversified foreign policy and partners, taking advantage of its key geostrategic position. Oli’s government aims to keep Nepal’s relationship with China independent of the one it shares with India. The question to ask is whether Nepal will be able to achieve this, given India’s discomfort with the increasing Chinese proximity. New Delhi was for long perceived in Kathmandu as “hawkish” in dealing with sensitive matters. The most notable instances of this include different river treaties, reluctance to respond to regular border-encroachment complaints, high-structure build-up along the border, inundation complaints, trade and transit crises and embargoes. There are historical reasons that explain the dynamics of the Indo-Nepal bilateral relationship. To maintain a sphere of influence, India needs sufficient soft power, as well as hard power, along with the confidence to act. Indeed, the nature of India-Nepal relations has always been a mixed bag. Due to its provisions and protocols, the 1950 treaty quickly became controversial and set the conflictive tone of the bilateral relationship. The provisions of the 1950 Indo-Nepal Peace and Friendship Treaty constrained Nepal as an ally and a state under India’s security umbrella. Given the asymmetrical size of the two countries, and Nepal’s reservations towards India due to the treaty-based unequal treatment, the open border has always been a crucial area of contention, except for communities and business groups that benefit from it directly. Nepal’s largest trading partner is India (the total trade accounting for 65 per cent), with whom Nepal runs the largest trade deficit. There was an improvement following the amendment of the trade commerce treaty with India in 1996, as exports increased and the deficit dropped. While, on paper, Nepal remains an ally of India, it has constitutionally asserted that its foreign policy is “based on the Charter of the United Nations, non-alignment, principles of Panchsheel (and) international law.” Despite Oli’s “ultranationalist” election rhetoric, he has responded positively to Modi’s and Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj’s overtures. Modi and Oli have established a relationship of trust, negotiating some important agreements during their visits. The agreement on the controversial Arun III hydel project, and their cooperation in revitalising the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation or BIMSTEC, are some of these indicators. The recent joint communiqués between India and Nepal seem to have all the right words and tone for a constructive move forward in their bilateral relations. Immediately after the successive visits of Modi and Oli to Nepal, there has been unprecedented progress in several areas. Regarding China’s inroads into Nepal, an option for India would be to defend the status quo by attempting to block Nepal’s options to diversify its cooperation with neighbours, through projects such as the infrastructure development by Chinese investment. India must introduce new economic, developmental and infrastructure initiatives with Nepal that will not only bring tangible benefits to Nepali citizens, but also address the vulnerabilities that will emerge in Nepal as the country engages with China. As things are, Nepal cannot dispense with its reliance on India. India is and will remain vital for the country in many ways. However, Nepal is now a member of China’s massive BRI, which puts India in a difficult position. Disregarding India’s traditional muscular diplomacy, PM Modi seems to have been following this line of cooperative diplomacy. The results are evident: the rapport between Modi and Oli, and Nepal’s increasing cooperation in Modi’s initiatives, which would have been impossible just a year ago. (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)

PM Modi has changed tack, cooperated closely with Nepal

In an apparent reference to Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that one of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign for the upcoming assembly elections in the state as the party fears that people will recall the failure of their tenure if Singh campaigns.

Earlier, Singh had said that "his party loses votes if he campaigns."

Addressing a rally in Indore on Sunday, the Prime Minister said, "One of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign during these elections. The reason is that the Congress fears that if he campaigns, the party will lose as people will recall what the fate of Madhya Pradesh was during the time they were in power."

The Prime Minister also accused the Congress of playing divisive politics and said, "Congress neither has any policy, intention, nor a leader... its leader is confused. Let the naamdar (apparently Congress chief Rahul Gandhi) write down on a piece of paper how many zeroes are there in Rs. 23,000 crore. He will get confused."

He further asserted that these elections are not about who would win or who won`t win but about rejecting the "negative forces who have always focused on the 'divide and rule'&nbsp;approach."

Talking about the development work in Indore city, the Prime Minister announced that as part of the Smart City project, Rs. 23,000 crore will be spent on development of seven cities in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh including Indore over five years. He added, "In last two years, the foreign tourists` influx has increased."

Madhya Pradesh will go to polls on November 28 to elect 230 members of the legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11.

The single-phase election in the state is seen as a direct political battle between the BJP and the Congress. While Chouhan is eyeing to secure his fourth consecutive term as chief minister, the Congress is looking to regain power after 2003.

In an apparent reference to Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that one of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign for the upcoming assembly elections in the state as the party fears that people will recall the failure of their tenure if Singh campaigns.

In an apparent reference to Congress leader and former Madhya Pradesh chief minister Digvijaya Singh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that one of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign for the upcoming assembly elections in the state as the party fears that people will recall the failure of their tenure if Singh campaigns. Earlier, Singh had said that "his party loses votes if he campaigns." Addressing a rally in Indore on Sunday, the Prime Minister said, "One of the senior Congress leaders is not being allowed to campaign during these elections. The reason is that the Congress fears that if he campaigns, the party will lose as people will recall what the fate of Madhya Pradesh was during the time they were in power." The Prime Minister also accused the Congress of playing divisive politics and said, "Congress neither has any policy, intention, nor a leader... its leader is confused. Let the naamdar (apparently Congress chief Rahul Gandhi) write down on a piece of paper how many zeroes are there in Rs. 23,000 crore. He will get confused." He further asserted that these elections are not about who would win or who won`t win but about rejecting the "negative forces who have always focused on the 'divide and rule' approach." Talking about the development work in Indore city, the Prime Minister announced that as part of the Smart City project, Rs. 23,000 crore will be spent on development of seven cities in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh including Indore over five years. He added, "In last two years, the foreign tourists` influx has increased." Madhya Pradesh will go to polls on November 28 to elect 230 members of the legislative assembly. The results will be declared on December 11. The single-phase election in the state is seen as a direct political battle between the BJP and the Congress. While Chouhan is eyeing to secure his fourth consecutive term as chief minister, the Congress is looking to regain power after 2003.

Congress not allowing senior leader to campaign to hide failure: PM Modi

Union minister Piyush Goyal Monday denied any confrontation between the Centre and country's central bank - Reserve Bank Of India (RBI).

Goyal also said that there was nothing objectionable in discussions among the members of RBI's board of directors (BOD) about the central bank's responsibilities towards the country.

In reply to a question amid the important meeting of RBI's BOD, Goyal said, "We are not seeing any tension between government and the RBI. Only Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and you people (media) are showing the signs of tension."

He said, "The government has already clarified that it has not asked for even a single rupee from RBI's reserve fund."

However, Goyal said that as an important national institution, the RBI has some responsibilities towards the country. No person should have any objection, if the central bank's board discusses these responsibilities in the national interest.

The minister refused the Congress chief's allegations that the Narendra Modi government has been making efforts to ruin the RBI.

Goyal alleged, "The previous Congress governments have insulted every constitutional institution of the country. Everyone knows how these governments have shunted out RBI governors in the past."

He said, "The meeting of the RBI's BOD holds time-to- time meetings, why is Rahul getting such a problem with this? Maybe Rahul has little knowledge of corporate governance."

Asked about ongoing CBI fiasco, he said, "The government had to take strict action following the statements of some CBI officers against each-other."

Railway minister said that a fund to the tune of Rs 21,000 crore has been allocated to the state for railways under NDA government.

This amount is six-times more than the fund allocated between 2009 and 2014 to the state during previous UPA government.

Union minister Piyush Goyal Monday denied any confrontation between the Centre and country's central bank - Reserve Bank Of India (RBI). Goyal also said that there was nothing objectionable in discussions among the members of RBI's board of directors (BOD) about the central bank's responsibilities towards the country.

Union minister Piyush Goyal Monday denied any confrontation between the Centre and country's central bank - Reserve Bank Of India (RBI). Goyal also said that there was nothing objectionable in discussions among the members of RBI's board of directors (BOD) about the central bank's responsibilities towards the country. In reply to a question amid the important meeting of RBI's BOD, Goyal said, "We are not seeing any tension between government and the RBI. Only Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and you people (media) are showing the signs of tension." He said, "The government has already clarified that it has not asked for even a single rupee from RBI's reserve fund." However, Goyal said that as an important national institution, the RBI has some responsibilities towards the country. No person should have any objection, if the central bank's board discusses these responsibilities in the national interest. The minister refused the Congress chief's allegations that the Narendra Modi government has been making efforts to ruin the RBI. Goyal alleged, "The previous Congress governments have insulted every constitutional institution of the country. Everyone knows how these governments have shunted out RBI governors in the past." He said, "The meeting of the RBI's BOD holds time-to- time meetings, why is Rahul getting such a problem with this? Maybe Rahul has little knowledge of corporate governance." Asked about ongoing CBI fiasco, he said, "The government had to take strict action following the statements of some CBI officers against each-other." Railway minister said that a fund to the tune of Rs 21,000 crore has been allocated to the state for railways under NDA government. This amount is six-times more than the fund allocated between 2009 and 2014 to the state during previous UPA government.

No confrontation between Centre and RBI: Piyush Goyal

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he and his party coterie is destroying every institution they can get their hands on.&nbsp;

Gandhi took to social media platform Twitter and said that even in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/govt-pressure-on-rbi-will-become-abundantly-clear-in-monday-meeting-board-members-178018">RBI meet</a>, Narendra Modi's puppets will attempt to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rbi-board-members-meet-as-government-seeks-credit-liquidity-178115">destroy the RBI</a>.&nbsp;

"Mr Modi and his coterie of cronies, continue to destroy every institution they can get their hands on. Today, through his puppets at the RBI Board Meet he will attempt to destroy the RBI. I hope Mr Patel and his team have a spine and show him his place", Gandhi tweeted amid the ongoing rift with the government and the Reserve Bank of India.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Mr Modi and his coterie of cronies, continue to destroy every institution they can get their hands on. Today, through his puppets at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RBIBoardMeet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RBIBoardMeet</a> he will attempt to destroy the RBI. I hope Mr Patel and his team have a spine and show him his place.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1064387123158093825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Congress has accused the Modi government of destroying every institution in the country and the latest one being the Reserve Bank of India.

The RBI's crucial board meeting today is expected to take up the liquidity crisis that has triggered a tiff between the government and the central bank.

The meeting is being held in the background of tension between the Centre and the RBI after Finance Ministry cited the never-used-before Section 7 of the RBI Act which empowers the government to issue directions to the RBI Governor.

The government on November 9 had said it was discussing an "appropriate" size of capital reserves that the central bank must maintain but denied seeking a massive capital transfer from the RBI.

Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg had also clarified that the government wasn't in any dire needs of funds and that there was no proposal to ask the RBI to transfer Rs 3.6 lakh crore.

(With inputs from PTI)

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he and his party coterie is destroying every institution they can get their hands on.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Monday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he and his party coterie is destroying every institution they can get their hands on. Gandhi took to social media platform Twitter and said that even in the RBI meet, Narendra Modi's puppets will attempt to destroy the RBI. "Mr Modi and his coterie of cronies, continue to destroy every institution they can get their hands on. Today, through his puppets at the RBI Board Meet he will attempt to destroy the RBI. I hope Mr Patel and his team have a spine and show him his place", Gandhi tweeted amid the ongoing rift with the government and the Reserve Bank of India. Mr Modi and his coterie of cronies, continue to destroy every institution they can get their hands on. Today, through his puppets at the #RBIBoardMeet he will attempt to destroy the RBI. I hope Mr Patel and his team have a spine and show him his place. — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 19, 2018 × The Congress has accused the Modi government of destroying every institution in the country and the latest one being the Reserve Bank of India. The RBI's crucial board meeting today is expected to take up the liquidity crisis that has triggered a tiff between the government and the central bank. The meeting is being held in the background of tension between the Centre and the RBI after Finance Ministry cited the never-used-before Section 7 of the RBI Act which empowers the government to issue directions to the RBI Governor. The government on November 9 had said it was discussing an "appropriate" size of capital reserves that the central bank must maintain but denied seeking a massive capital transfer from the RBI. Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg had also clarified that the government wasn't in any dire needs of funds and that there was no proposal to ask the RBI to transfer Rs 3.6 lakh crore. (With inputs from PTI)

RBI board meeting: Rahul Gandhi says Urjit Patel and his team 'must show Narendra Modi his place'

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government.

Gandhi claimed that the Prime Minister will not be in a position to answer his questions over the alleged scams in the deal.

"I challenge Modi Ji to come on stage anywhere, anytime and debate over Rafale with me for just 15 minutes. I will talk about Anil Ambani, HAL, French President's statements and the pricing of the jets. I will say that Defence Minister said clearly that it's Prime Minister who did it. The Prime Minister did not follow the procedure. The CBI Director was removed at 2 am. He will not be able to answer my questions," said Mr Gandhi.

Reiterating his claim, the Congress chief said that Prime Minister Modi's demonetisation drive has benefited few of his "businessmen friends" in the country.

Talking about the unemployment crisis in Chhattisgarh, Mr Gandhi said that the incumbent Chief Minister Raman Singh has failed to provide employment in the state despite ruling for 15 years.

"Raman Singh has been in power for the last 15 years and Prime Minister Modi has completed four and a half years in government at the Centre and both the governments have failed to fulfil their promise to generate employment opportunities for the youth," he said.

Mr Gandhi added that once the Congress party comes to power in the state, government job vacancies will be filled. "After Congress government comes to power, government job vacancies will be filled and it will also stop the practice of outsourcing of jobs, which is being done in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh", he added.

He also promised that within 10 days after coming into power, the Congress party will waive off the loans of Chhattisgarh's farmers. "Secondly, you all were told that you will get a bonus. For the last two years, you have not been getting the same. Not only we will resume this practice, but we will also compensate for the bonus of these two years, which BJP failed to do," said the Congress chief.

The first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was held on November 12, while the second phase is due on November 20. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.&nbsp;

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government.

Stepping up attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi on Saturday challenged the former to participate in a debate over the details of the Rafale fighter jets deal signed with the French government. Gandhi claimed that the Prime Minister will not be in a position to answer his questions over the alleged scams in the deal. "I challenge Modi Ji to come on stage anywhere, anytime and debate over Rafale with me for just 15 minutes. I will talk about Anil Ambani, HAL, French President's statements and the pricing of the jets. I will say that Defence Minister said clearly that it's Prime Minister who did it. The Prime Minister did not follow the procedure. The CBI Director was removed at 2 am. He will not be able to answer my questions," said Mr Gandhi. Reiterating his claim, the Congress chief said that Prime Minister Modi's demonetisation drive has benefited few of his "businessmen friends" in the country. Talking about the unemployment crisis in Chhattisgarh, Mr Gandhi said that the incumbent Chief Minister Raman Singh has failed to provide employment in the state despite ruling for 15 years. "Raman Singh has been in power for the last 15 years and Prime Minister Modi has completed four and a half years in government at the Centre and both the governments have failed to fulfil their promise to generate employment opportunities for the youth," he said. Mr Gandhi added that once the Congress party comes to power in the state, government job vacancies will be filled. "After Congress government comes to power, government job vacancies will be filled and it will also stop the practice of outsourcing of jobs, which is being done in BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh", he added. He also promised that within 10 days after coming into power, the Congress party will waive off the loans of Chhattisgarh's farmers. "Secondly, you all were told that you will get a bonus. For the last two years, you have not been getting the same. Not only we will resume this practice, but we will also compensate for the bonus of these two years, which BJP failed to do," said the Congress chief. The first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh was held on November 12, while the second phase is due on November 20. The counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Rahul Gandhi challenges PM Modi for debate on Rafale deal

Union minister Piyush Goyal claimed Saturday a survey, commissioned by him, of over 5.4 lakh respondents across the country revealed the BJP will win between 297-303 seats in the next year's Lok Sabha polls.

The minister said he had conducted out a similar survey in 2013 that had predicted an absolute majority for the BJP in 2014, and it was right.

For the 2019 elections, the survey was conducted out in August-September, he said.

"I'm happy to share that the BJP looks to be between 297-303 seats by itself in the 2019 elections," he said at the annual ET awards here.

He said the survey was not done by the BJP but by a private agency, generally used by media houses.

Goyal said in this year's survey, there were 5.4 lakh respondents, which was unheard of number in any such survey in the world.

Union minister Piyush Goyal claimed Saturday a survey, commissioned by him, of over 5.4 lakh respondents across the country revealed the BJP will win between 297-303 seats in the next year's Lok Sabha polls.

Union minister Piyush Goyal claimed Saturday a survey, commissioned by him, of over 5.4 lakh respondents across the country revealed the BJP will win between 297-303 seats in the next year's Lok Sabha polls. The minister said he had conducted out a similar survey in 2013 that had predicted an absolute majority for the BJP in 2014, and it was right. For the 2019 elections, the survey was conducted out in August-September, he said. "I'm happy to share that the BJP looks to be between 297-303 seats by itself in the 2019 elections," he said at the annual ET awards here. He said the survey was not done by the BJP but by a private agency, generally used by media houses. Goyal said in this year's survey, there were 5.4 lakh respondents, which was unheard of number in any such survey in the world.

Union minister Piyush goyal claims survey commissioned by him predicts about 300 Lok Sabha seats for BJP

Hitting out at the Congress and the Nehru-Gandhi family, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday alleged that Dalit leader Sitaram Kesri was not allowed to complete his term as Congress president, and was "thrown out of office" to make way for Sonia Gandhi as the new party chief.

Addressing a rally on the last day of the campaign for the second and final phase of polling for Chhattisgarh Assembly election, Modi said four generations of a family ruled the country and "benefited from being in power", but the country did not benefit from their rule.

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Four generations of Congress ruled the country. What was the fate of people? They only thought about one family but never gave a thought about welfare of people. How can we trust them that they will fulfill aspirations of people now: PM Modi in Mahasamund <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhattisgarhElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhattisgarhElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/hPRxErkUmE">pic.twitter.com/hPRxErkUmE</a>
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Everyone knows what the Congress did to Sitaram Kesri Ji when he was the Congress party president. I challenge the Congress to appoint some able leader as their party president, who doesn't belong the family: PM Modi in Mahasamund <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhattisgarhElections?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhattisgarhElections</a> <a href="https://t.co/QDMhINRtWp">pic.twitter.com/QDMhINRtWp</a>
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"The country knows that Sitaram Kesri, a Dalit, was not allowed to complete his five-year-term as Congress president; he was thrown out of office and into the footpath to make way for Sonia Gandhi as the new party chief," Modi said.&nbsp;

"Earlier Delhi had a remote-controlled government. The remote was in hands of a family which was afraid of the BJP," he said, targeting the Congress and the Gandhis.

Modi challenged the Congress to select someone "capable" as their party president who doesn't belong to "that one family".&nbsp;

"Remember the days when four generations of a family ruled the country. What was the fate of people? They only thought about welfare of one family but never gave a thought about welfare of people. How can we trust them that they will fulfil aspirations of people now," Modi said.

The prime minister claimed that Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh also faced a lot of challenges from the then Congress government at the Centre.

"For 10 years, the Centre was ruled by a 'remote-control' government which never paid attention towards Chhattisgarh," Modi alleged.&nbsp;

Hitting out at the Congress and the Nehru-Gandhi family, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday alleged that Dalit leader Sitaram Kesri was not allowed to complete his term as Congress president, and was "thrown out of office" to make way for Sonia Gandhi as the new party chief.

Hitting out at the Congress and the Nehru-Gandhi family, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday alleged that Dalit leader Sitaram Kesri was not allowed to complete his term as Congress president, and was "thrown out of office" to make way for Sonia Gandhi as the new party chief. Addressing a rally on the last day of the campaign for the second and final phase of polling for Chhattisgarh Assembly election, Modi said four generations of a family ruled the country and "benefited from being in power", but the country did not benefit from their rule. Four generations of Congress ruled the country. What was the fate of people? They only thought about one family but never gave a thought about welfare of people. How can we trust them that they will fulfill aspirations of people now: PM Modi in Mahasamund #ChhattisgarhElections pic.twitter.com/hPRxErkUmE — ANI (@ANI) November 18, 2018 × Everyone knows what the Congress did to Sitaram Kesri Ji when he was the Congress party president. I challenge the Congress to appoint some able leader as their party president, who doesn't belong the family: PM Modi in Mahasamund #ChhattisgarhElections pic.twitter.com/QDMhINRtWp — ANI (@ANI) November 18, 2018 × "The country knows that Sitaram Kesri, a Dalit, was not allowed to complete his five-year-term as Congress president; he was thrown out of office and into the footpath to make way for Sonia Gandhi as the new party chief," Modi said. "Earlier Delhi had a remote-controlled government. The remote was in hands of a family which was afraid of the BJP," he said, targeting the Congress and the Gandhis. Modi challenged the Congress to select someone "capable" as their party president who doesn't belong to "that one family". "Remember the days when four generations of a family ruled the country. What was the fate of people? They only thought about welfare of one family but never gave a thought about welfare of people. How can we trust them that they will fulfil aspirations of people now," Modi said. The prime minister claimed that Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh also faced a lot of challenges from the then Congress government at the Centre. "For 10 years, the Centre was ruled by a 'remote-control' government which never paid attention towards Chhattisgarh," Modi alleged.

Sitaram Kesri, a Dalit, wasn't allowed to complete term as Congress chief: Modi

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands.

The surprise defeat of pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen has opened a window for India, the strategic outpost's traditional political partner, to regain ground lost to Beijing in their tussle for regional dominance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest ranking visitor at the inauguration at the national soccer stadium in the capital Male. By contrast, China's highest-ranking attendee will be Culture and Tourism Minister Luo Shugang.

"I will convey to the new Maldivian government ... the desire of my government to work closely for realisation of their developmental priorities, especially in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity and human resource development," the Indian prime minister said in a post on Facebook.

Modi's presence signals the end of years of frosty relations because of Yameen's embrace of China, a relationship that had deepened India's anxieties about being encircled by countries leaning towards Beijing.

In Sri Lanka, an island nation to the southeast of India, the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing has been one of the triggers for a political crisis in recent weeks.

"India-first"

The low-key Solih, a veteran lawmaker, has promised an "India first" policy in the Maldives, saying the small nation of a little over 400,000 people needs solid ties with its immediate neighbour.

His team is also reviewing millions of dollars of investments from China, as well as the related debt that the country has run up from Chinese lenders and how to restructure it. Solih has said investigations will be launched to find out what happened and fix accountability, Adam Azim, a member of his transition committee, told reporters on Thursday.

"We were led to believe it's about $1.5 billion, the Chinese debt, but it could be worse," said another member of Solih's top economic team, which has been holding discussions with finance ministry officials during the transition following the election in September.

He said the team had already reached out to India, the United States and Saudi Arabia for financial assistance so it could tackle the debt.

"We straightaway need 200-300 million dollars to kick-start the budgetary support," the adviser said.

Debt of $1.5 billion would be more than a quarter of the country's annual gross domestic product. Another member of the incoming president's economic team said firm proposals for assistance had been discussed with Indian and U.S. officials.

"Friendship"&nbsp;bridge

Signs of the infrastructure boom are everywhere in Male, from where tourists are whisked off in high speed boats to luxury resorts built on atolls in the turquoise waters.

Some 400 Chinese workers this year completed the mile-long China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, which towers over the city connecting the airport on one island to the capital on another.

The airport itself is undergoing expansion, with a second runway to accommodate the thousands of tourists who arrive each day.

The airport development is an especially sore point with India, after the Maldivian government cancelled a $511 million deal with India's GMR Infrastructure and later gave the contract to Beijing Urban Construction Group Company Limited.

The Yameen administration also threw open new islands and lagoons from the 1,192 islands that make up the necklace-shaped archipelago for development of resorts.

"There is such secrecy surrounding all these deals that it will take us weeks to figure out what went on," said Mariya Ahmad, an MP and spokeswoman for Solih.

Sensing an opportunity, India has told Solih's team it stands ready to help, Indian government officials in New Delhi and Maldivian authorities in Male said.

India had provided a $75 million credit line some years ago, of which a third had been utilised before the diplomatic chill set in with the previous administration, an Indian government official said.

There is also a currency swap agreement between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority that could help maintain financial stability, the official said.

Modi, making his first visit since taking office in 2014, will hold talks with Solih before the inauguration.

India has had a long-standing defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives, providing coastal security and patrols of its exclusive economic zone. But Yameen saw such co-operation as a cover for surveillance and had asked India to withdraw two military helicopters along with 50 military personnel this year.

The Indians had refused and now officials in Delhi said they expected the visas of the personnel involved in the operations to be renewed.

"In keeping with its neighbourhood first policy, India looks forward to closely working with Maldives in further deepening the partnership," Indian foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said.

A diplomatic source said the United States was also set to increase its engagement with the Maldives. Its relations had also become strained because of Yameen's crackdown on political rivals and supreme court justices.

But China remains a big player, given the investments by its state companies and as Chinese tourists pour in. That means the relationship is unlikely to completely unravel.

Between January to October this year, 247,911 Chinese tourists arrived, accounting for a fifth of all visitors. India, which is much closer geographically, provided just 5 per cent.

China's embassy did not respond to a request for comment about concerns that its projects had pushed the Maldives into financial difficulties. Soon after Solih's victory, Beijing had said it hoped the new government would maintain continuity in its policies and create good conditions for Chinese firms.

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands.

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands. The surprise defeat of pro-China strongman Abdulla Yameen has opened a window for India, the strategic outpost's traditional political partner, to regain ground lost to Beijing in their tussle for regional dominance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the highest ranking visitor at the inauguration at the national soccer stadium in the capital Male. By contrast, China's highest-ranking attendee will be Culture and Tourism Minister Luo Shugang. "I will convey to the new Maldivian government ... the desire of my government to work closely for realisation of their developmental priorities, especially in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity and human resource development," the Indian prime minister said in a post on Facebook. Modi's presence signals the end of years of frosty relations because of Yameen's embrace of China, a relationship that had deepened India's anxieties about being encircled by countries leaning towards Beijing. In Sri Lanka, an island nation to the southeast of India, the rivalry between New Delhi and Beijing has been one of the triggers for a political crisis in recent weeks. "India-first" The low-key Solih, a veteran lawmaker, has promised an "India first" policy in the Maldives, saying the small nation of a little over 400,000 people needs solid ties with its immediate neighbour. His team is also reviewing millions of dollars of investments from China, as well as the related debt that the country has run up from Chinese lenders and how to restructure it. Solih has said investigations will be launched to find out what happened and fix accountability, Adam Azim, a member of his transition committee, told reporters on Thursday. "We were led to believe it's about $1.5 billion, the Chinese debt, but it could be worse," said another member of Solih's top economic team, which has been holding discussions with finance ministry officials during the transition following the election in September. He said the team had already reached out to India, the United States and Saudi Arabia for financial assistance so it could tackle the debt. "We straightaway need 200-300 million dollars to kick-start the budgetary support," the adviser said. Debt of $1.5 billion would be more than a quarter of the country's annual gross domestic product. Another member of the incoming president's economic team said firm proposals for assistance had been discussed with Indian and U.S. officials. "Friendship" bridge Signs of the infrastructure boom are everywhere in Male, from where tourists are whisked off in high speed boats to luxury resorts built on atolls in the turquoise waters. Some 400 Chinese workers this year completed the mile-long China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, which towers over the city connecting the airport on one island to the capital on another. The airport itself is undergoing expansion, with a second runway to accommodate the thousands of tourists who arrive each day. The airport development is an especially sore point with India, after the Maldivian government cancelled a $511 million deal with India's GMR Infrastructure and later gave the contract to Beijing Urban Construction Group Company Limited. The Yameen administration also threw open new islands and lagoons from the 1,192 islands that make up the necklace-shaped archipelago for development of resorts. "There is such secrecy surrounding all these deals that it will take us weeks to figure out what went on," said Mariya Ahmad, an MP and spokeswoman for Solih. Sensing an opportunity, India has told Solih's team it stands ready to help, Indian government officials in New Delhi and Maldivian authorities in Male said. India had provided a $75 million credit line some years ago, of which a third had been utilised before the diplomatic chill set in with the previous administration, an Indian government official said. There is also a currency swap agreement between the Reserve Bank of India and the Maldives Monetary Authority that could help maintain financial stability, the official said. Modi, making his first visit since taking office in 2014, will hold talks with Solih before the inauguration. India has had a long-standing defence cooperation agreement with the Maldives, providing coastal security and patrols of its exclusive economic zone. But Yameen saw such co-operation as a cover for surveillance and had asked India to withdraw two military helicopters along with 50 military personnel this year. The Indians had refused and now officials in Delhi said they expected the visas of the personnel involved in the operations to be renewed. "In keeping with its neighbourhood first policy, India looks forward to closely working with Maldives in further deepening the partnership," Indian foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar said. A diplomatic source said the United States was also set to increase its engagement with the Maldives. Its relations had also become strained because of Yameen's crackdown on political rivals and supreme court justices. But China remains a big player, given the investments by its state companies and as Chinese tourists pour in. That means the relationship is unlikely to completely unravel. Between January to October this year, 247,911 Chinese tourists arrived, accounting for a fifth of all visitors. India, which is much closer geographically, provided just 5 per cent. China's embassy did not respond to a request for comment about concerns that its projects had pushed the Maldives into financial difficulties. Soon after Solih's victory, Beijing had said it hoped the new government would maintain continuity in its policies and create good conditions for Chinese firms.

PM Modi embraces Maldives as new leader Solih takes office

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/cia-has-concluded-saudi-crown-prince-ordered-journalists-killing-report-177782">CIA has concluded Saudi crown prince ordered journalist's killing: Report</a>

The CIA has concluded that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul, the Washington Post reported on Friday, a finding that contradicts Saudi government assertions that he was not involved.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/over-1000-missing-71-dead-in-california-wildfire-177802">Over 1000 missing, 71 dead in California wildfire</a>

The number of people missing in a devastating wildfire in northern California jumped to more than 1,000 on Friday, authorities said, as the remains of eight other victims were found by rescuers.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-explosion-in-karachi-kills-two-injures-eight-177790">Pakistan: Explosion in Karachi kills 2, injures 8</a>

A bomb killed at least two people and wounded eight others in Pakistan's port city of Karachi Friday, police and hospital officials said.

The blast reportedly damaged buildings and triggered panic in the densely populated Malir district.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-embraces-maldives-as-new-leader-mohamed-solih-takes-office-china-out-of-favour-177785">PM Modi embraces </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-embraces-maldives-as-new-leader-mohamed-solih-takes-office-china-out-of-favour-177785">Maldives</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-embraces-maldives-as-new-leader-mohamed-solih-takes-office-china-out-of-favour-177785"> as new leader Mohamed Solih takes office, China out of favour</a>

Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-orders-white-house-to-restore-press-pass-to-cnns-acosta-177783">US judge orders White House to restore press pass to CNN's Acosta</a>

A US judge on Friday ordered the White House to temporarily restore CNN correspondent Jim Acosta's press pass, which was revoked after a contentious news conference last week with President Donald Trump.

The White House withdrew Acosta's credentials on November 7 in an escalation of the Republican president's attacks on news organizations, who he has called enemies of the people.

CIA has concluded Saudi crown prince ordered journalist's killing: Report The CIA has concluded that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul, the Washington Post reported on Friday, a finding that contradicts Saudi government assertions that he was not involved.

CIA has concluded Saudi crown prince ordered journalist's killing: Report The CIA has concluded that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul, the Washington Post reported on Friday, a finding that contradicts Saudi government assertions that he was not involved. Over 1000 missing, 71 dead in California wildfire The number of people missing in a devastating wildfire in northern California jumped to more than 1,000 on Friday, authorities said, as the remains of eight other victims were found by rescuers. Pakistan: Explosion in Karachi kills 2, injures 8 A bomb killed at least two people and wounded eight others in Pakistan's port city of Karachi Friday, police and hospital officials said. The blast reportedly damaged buildings and triggered panic in the densely populated Malir district. PM Modi embraces Maldives as new leader Mohamed Solih takes office, China out of favour Maldives' President-elect Ibrahim Mohamed Solih takes office on Saturday, seeking help from India and the United States to climb out from under a mountain of Chinese debt that his predecessor racked up in a breakneck development of the coral islands. US judge orders White House to restore press pass to CNN's Acosta A US judge on Friday ordered the White House to temporarily restore CNN correspondent Jim Acosta's press pass, which was revoked after a contentious news conference last week with President Donald Trump. The White House withdrew Acosta's credentials on November 7 in an escalation of the Republican president's attacks on news organizations, who he has called enemies of the people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in Male. Solih took oath as the President of Maldives, at National Stadium in Male on Saturday.

India was the only country mentioned in Maldives' President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's speech at his swearing-in ceremony.&nbsp;

According to news agency ANI, a meeting was held between PM Modi and &nbsp;Maldives President Solih immediately after swearing-in.&nbsp;

India was the only country invited at the head of state/government level, sources added.&nbsp;

Modi travelled to Male to attend the oath-taking ceremony in which representatives of more than 40 countries were also present.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in Male. <a href="https://t.co/xkWawPECsW">pic.twitter.com/xkWawPECsW</a>
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Solih, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's candidate who surprisingly emerged victorious over incumbent president Yameen in the election held on September 23, had extended the invitation during a phone call by Modi.

This is Modi's first visit to the Maldives as prime minister. The last visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Indian Ocean island nation was by Manmohan Singh in 2011.&nbsp;

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Male: Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Delhi after attending the swearing-in ceremony of Maldives' President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. <a href="https://t.co/uoqhqnJcBx">pic.twitter.com/uoqhqnJcBx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1063795448035590150?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to the latest report, Modi left for Delhi after attending the swearing-in ceremony.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in Male. Solih took oath as the President of Maldives, at National Stadium in Male on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in Male. Solih took oath as the President of Maldives, at National Stadium in Male on Saturday. India was the only country mentioned in Maldives' President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's speech at his swearing-in ceremony. According to news agency ANI, a meeting was held between PM Modi and Maldives President Solih immediately after swearing-in. India was the only country invited at the head of state/government level, sources added. Modi travelled to Male to attend the oath-taking ceremony in which representatives of more than 40 countries were also present. Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in Male. pic.twitter.com/xkWawPECsW — ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2018 × Solih, the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party's candidate who surprisingly emerged victorious over incumbent president Yameen in the election held on September 23, had extended the invitation during a phone call by Modi. This is Modi's first visit to the Maldives as prime minister. The last visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Indian Ocean island nation was by Manmohan Singh in 2011. Male: Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves for Delhi after attending the swearing-in ceremony of Maldives' President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. pic.twitter.com/uoqhqnJcBx — ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2018 × According to the latest report, Modi left for Delhi after attending the swearing-in ceremony.

PM Modi meets Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in Male

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E&nbsp;Palaniswami regarding the situation in the state raised due to cyclone Gaja and assured all possible help from the Centre.

Taking to his Twitter handle, the Prime Minister tweeted, "Spoke to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru Edappadi K&nbsp;Palaniswami regarding the situation arising due to cyclone conditions in the state. Assured all possible help from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of the people of Tamil Nadu."

"My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives due to cyclonic conditions in parts of Tamil Nadu. I pray for the quick recovery of those injured. Officials are working towards providing all possible assistance in the wake of the cyclone," he added.

Earlier in the day, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister confirmed that 11 people have lost their lives after the landfall of cyclone Gaja.

He also announced that the government will give Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh to those injured severely and Rs 25,000 to people who have suffered minor injuries.

Cyclone Gaja crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam on Thursday evening and unleashed mayhem in several districts of the state including Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami regarding the situation in the state raised due to cyclone Gaja and assured all possible help from the Centre.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday spoke to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister E Palaniswami regarding the situation in the state raised due to cyclone Gaja and assured all possible help from the Centre. Taking to his Twitter handle, the Prime Minister tweeted, "Spoke to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Thiru Edappadi K Palaniswami regarding the situation arising due to cyclone conditions in the state. Assured all possible help from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of the people of Tamil Nadu." "My thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives due to cyclonic conditions in parts of Tamil Nadu. I pray for the quick recovery of those injured. Officials are working towards providing all possible assistance in the wake of the cyclone," he added. Earlier in the day, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister confirmed that 11 people have lost their lives after the landfall of cyclone Gaja. He also announced that the government will give Rs 10 lakh to the kin of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh to those injured severely and Rs 25,000 to people who have suffered minor injuries. Cyclone Gaja crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam on Thursday evening and unleashed mayhem in several districts of the state including Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur, and Thanjavur.

Cyclone Gaja: PM Modi assures all possible help to Tamil Nadu

Former Union minister P Chidambaram Saturday hit back at Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-dares-congress-to-make-a-non-gandhi-party-president-for-at-least-5-years-177780">Narendra Modi for targeting the Congress</a>, reminding him of the party's legacy by listing out the names of its presidents from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family.

He asked the prime minister to now speak on the Rafale aircraft deal, unemployment and suicide of farmers during his rule.

In an election rally in Chhattisgarh on Friday, Modi had asked the Congress to make a Congressman, from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family, president of the party for five years.

In a series of tweets, Chidambaram listed out the names and said the Congress was proud of the humble origins of its post-Independence leaders like Babasaheb Ambedkar, Lal Bahadur Shastri, K Kamaraj and Manmohan Singh and many others besides thousand&nbsp;others during pre-Independence days.

"To jog PM Modi's memory: among the Congress Presidents since 1947 were Acharya Kripalani, Pattabhi Sitaramayya, Purushottamdas Tandon, U N Dhebar, Sanjiva Reddy, Sanjivaiah, Kamaraj, Nijalingappa, C Subramanian, Jagjivan Ram, Shankar Dayal Sharma, D K Barooah, Brahmananda Reddy, P V Narasimha Rao and Sitaram Kesri (sic)," he said.

In a dig at Modi, Chidambaram said he was grateful that the prime minister was "concerned" about who is elected as Congress president and he devotes a lot of time talking about it.

"Will he spend half the time and speak about demonetisation, GST, Rafale, CBI and the RBI?

"Will PM Modi speak about farmers' suicides, massive unemployment, lynchings, rape crimes against women and children, anti-Romeo squads, gau rakshak vigilantism and increasing terror attacks?" he said.

At the rally in Ambikapur in north Chhattisgarh, Modi had also attacked Congress president Rahul Gandhi and asked him to give an account on the contributions of the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family to the nation.

Former Union minister P Chidambaram Saturday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for targeting the Congress, reminding him of the party's legacy by listing out the names of its presidents from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family.

Former Union minister P Chidambaram Saturday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for targeting the Congress, reminding him of the party's legacy by listing out the names of its presidents from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family. He asked the prime minister to now speak on the Rafale aircraft deal, unemployment and suicide of farmers during his rule. In an election rally in Chhattisgarh on Friday, Modi had asked the Congress to make a Congressman, from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family, president of the party for five years. In a series of tweets, Chidambaram listed out the names and said the Congress was proud of the humble origins of its post-Independence leaders like Babasaheb Ambedkar, Lal Bahadur Shastri, K Kamaraj and Manmohan Singh and many others besides thousand others during pre-Independence days. "To jog PM Modi's memory: among the Congress Presidents since 1947 were Acharya Kripalani, Pattabhi Sitaramayya, Purushottamdas Tandon, U N Dhebar, Sanjiva Reddy, Sanjivaiah, Kamaraj, Nijalingappa, C Subramanian, Jagjivan Ram, Shankar Dayal Sharma, D K Barooah, Brahmananda Reddy, P V Narasimha Rao and Sitaram Kesri (sic)," he said. In a dig at Modi, Chidambaram said he was grateful that the prime minister was "concerned" about who is elected as Congress president and he devotes a lot of time talking about it. "Will he spend half the time and speak about demonetisation, GST, Rafale, CBI and the RBI? "Will PM Modi speak about farmers' suicides, massive unemployment, lynchings, rape crimes against women and children, anti-Romeo squads, gau rakshak vigilantism and increasing terror attacks?" he said. At the rally in Ambikapur in north Chhattisgarh, Modi had also attacked Congress president Rahul Gandhi and asked him to give an account on the contributions of the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family to the nation.

Chidambaram responds to PM Modi, lists out Presidents outside Nehru-Gandhi family

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah will crisscross poll-bound Madhya Pradesh from Friday starting with a public meeting in Shahdol district, over 500 kilometres from Bhopal, a senior BJP functionary said Thursday.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President Amit Shah and Congress President Rahul Gandhi to hold public rallies in Madhya Pradesh, later in the day. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections2018</a>(File pics) <a href="https://t.co/2cdmRPoeoM">pic.twitter.com/2cdmRPoeoM</a>
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The prime minister will address two public meetings, mostly on alternate days, starting Friday, state BJP chief Rakesh Singh said.

After the rally at Shahdol Friday, Modi will be in Gwalior to address another rally before flying back to Delhi, Singh informed.

He will return and address public meetings in Chhindwara and Indore on Sunday before returning to Delhi, Singh added.

The prime minister will again visit Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday and address public meetings in Jhabua and Rewa districts.

Three days later, on Saturday, Modi will return to the state and address public meetings in Mandsaur and Chhattarpur districts, Singh said.

The next day (November 25), he will deliver speeches in Vidisha and Jabalpur districts, he added.

MP BJP spokesperson Anil Soumitra said PM Modi was a charismatic leader and his visits to MP will immensely benefit the party which he claimed will win over 200 assembly seats out of 230 in the state.

Meanwhile, MP Congress spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi claimed Modi's visit won't have any impact, adding that the state government was facing a strong anti-incumbency wave.

He claimed the Congress was set to sweep the Assembly polls scheduled for November 28.

The results will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah will crisscross poll-bound Madhya Pradesh from Friday starting with a public meeting in Shahdol district, over 500 kilometres from Bhopal, a senior BJP functionary said Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah will crisscross poll-bound Madhya Pradesh from Friday starting with a public meeting in Shahdol district, over 500 kilometres from Bhopal, a senior BJP functionary said Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President Amit Shah and Congress President Rahul Gandhi to hold public rallies in Madhya Pradesh, later in the day. #MadhyaPradeshElections2018(File pics) pic.twitter.com/2cdmRPoeoM — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × The prime minister will address two public meetings, mostly on alternate days, starting Friday, state BJP chief Rakesh Singh said. After the rally at Shahdol Friday, Modi will be in Gwalior to address another rally before flying back to Delhi, Singh informed. He will return and address public meetings in Chhindwara and Indore on Sunday before returning to Delhi, Singh added. The prime minister will again visit Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday and address public meetings in Jhabua and Rewa districts. Three days later, on Saturday, Modi will return to the state and address public meetings in Mandsaur and Chhattarpur districts, Singh said. The next day (November 25), he will deliver speeches in Vidisha and Jabalpur districts, he added. MP BJP spokesperson Anil Soumitra said PM Modi was a charismatic leader and his visits to MP will immensely benefit the party which he claimed will win over 200 assembly seats out of 230 in the state. Meanwhile, MP Congress spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi claimed Modi's visit won't have any impact, adding that the state government was facing a strong anti-incumbency wave. He claimed the Congress was set to sweep the Assembly polls scheduled for November 28. The results will be declared on December 11.

PM Narendra Modi to address rallies today in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh

The Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping has removed several "misconceptions" between the two countries which would enable them to work together on many issues like globalisation, India's envoy here has said.&nbsp;

In Wuhan, Modi and Xi spoke to each other for almost 10 hours, which is characterised as a strategic communication by both sides, Ambassador Gautam Bambawale said.

"Both leaders were very keen to have this kind of (informal) meeting. The reason why we did an informal summit was that we wanted the two leaders to talk to each other for the maximum amount of time," he said on the April 27-28 summit.&nbsp;

"We removed several misconceptions may have about each other. I think a lot of things bring India and China can do together. There are only few things where we differ with each other," Bambawale told the state-run China Global Television Network on Thursday.

He said both the countries are beneficiaries of multilateralism and India is a votary for globalisation like China.

The two countries agree that they are developing countries who are focused on improving the living standards of about 2.4 billion people. 
"India and China have similar view points on global issues. We both want to have an open system where multilateral system works," he said, adding that both the countries can work on many issues like globalisation.&nbsp;

He said the issue that divides the two countries is the unresolved boundary question.

"But even as we work for the resolution of the boundary problem between us, we have agreed that we will maintain peace and tranquillity at our borders and for the last 30 years we have succeeded in that," he said.&nbsp;

The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488 km long Line of Actual Control (LAC). While China claims Arunachal Pradesh as Southern Tibet, India asserts that the dispute covered Aksai Chin area which was occupied by China during the 1962 war.

Bambawale is retiring later this month and will be succeeded by India's current Ambassador to Myanmar, Vikram Misri.&nbsp;

To a question about Japan and China deciding to undertake a joint project in third countries, Bambawale said New Delhi and Beijing are also trying out such a cooperation and pointed to the recent decision to jointly train Afghan diplomats.

"At the Wuhan summit, Xi and Modi have agreed that India and China will do a joint project in Afghanistan. Here is yet another example of two Asian countries working together to help another Asian country. So, I think the future is bright as far as this aspect is concerned," he said.&nbsp;

To a question about India-China trade and investment moving to a fast lane, he said, "Yes, I agree, not just trade but also investments increasing between India and China".

"We are seeing more Chinese companies interested in investing in India and beginning to invest in India," he said and pointed to big strides made by Chinese companies like Xiaomi.&nbsp;

Huawei too has a research base in India employing about 6,000 Indian engineers.

He also spoke about Indian films like Dangal making big inroads in China.&nbsp;

He said film star Aamir Khan has become a "superstar" in China.

He said efforts are being made by both countries to increase people-to-people contacts.

The Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping has removed several "misconceptions" between the two countries which would enable them to work together on many issues like globalisation, India's envoy here has said.

The Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping has removed several "misconceptions" between the two countries which would enable them to work together on many issues like globalisation, India's envoy here has said. In Wuhan, Modi and Xi spoke to each other for almost 10 hours, which is characterised as a strategic communication by both sides, Ambassador Gautam Bambawale said. "Both leaders were very keen to have this kind of (informal) meeting. The reason why we did an informal summit was that we wanted the two leaders to talk to each other for the maximum amount of time," he said on the April 27-28 summit. "We removed several misconceptions may have about each other. I think a lot of things bring India and China can do together. There are only few things where we differ with each other," Bambawale told the state-run China Global Television Network on Thursday. He said both the countries are beneficiaries of multilateralism and India is a votary for globalisation like China. The two countries agree that they are developing countries who are focused on improving the living standards of about 2.4 billion people. "India and China have similar view points on global issues. We both want to have an open system where multilateral system works," he said, adding that both the countries can work on many issues like globalisation. He said the issue that divides the two countries is the unresolved boundary question. "But even as we work for the resolution of the boundary problem between us, we have agreed that we will maintain peace and tranquillity at our borders and for the last 30 years we have succeeded in that," he said. The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488 km long Line of Actual Control (LAC). While China claims Arunachal Pradesh as Southern Tibet, India asserts that the dispute covered Aksai Chin area which was occupied by China during the 1962 war. Bambawale is retiring later this month and will be succeeded by India's current Ambassador to Myanmar, Vikram Misri. To a question about Japan and China deciding to undertake a joint project in third countries, Bambawale said New Delhi and Beijing are also trying out such a cooperation and pointed to the recent decision to jointly train Afghan diplomats. "At the Wuhan summit, Xi and Modi have agreed that India and China will do a joint project in Afghanistan. Here is yet another example of two Asian countries working together to help another Asian country. So, I think the future is bright as far as this aspect is concerned," he said. To a question about India-China trade and investment moving to a fast lane, he said, "Yes, I agree, not just trade but also investments increasing between India and China". "We are seeing more Chinese companies interested in investing in India and beginning to invest in India," he said and pointed to big strides made by Chinese companies like Xiaomi. Huawei too has a research base in India employing about 6,000 Indian engineers. He also spoke about Indian films like Dangal making big inroads in China. He said film star Aamir Khan has become a "superstar" in China. He said efforts are being made by both countries to increase people-to-people contacts.

Modi-Xi summit in Wuhan removed several misconceptions between India and China: Indian envoy

India Thursday handed over to Maldivian Coast Guard one of its ships after carrying out major refit on it, the Indian Navy said.

"Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee successfully completed her refit at Naval Dockyard,&nbsp;Visakhapatnam, and the ship was formally handed over to the island nation,"&nbsp;a Navy spokesperson said&nbsp;

The handing over of the ship comes two days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays a day-long visit to Maldives to attend the swearing-in ceremony of new Maldivian president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Modi's visit is seen as an indication of an attempt by New Delhi to mend bilateral ties, which nosedived during the outgoing Abdulla Yameen government.

India-Maldives ties came under strain under Yameen and the relations deteriorated further after he imposed emergency in the island nation on February 5 this year.&nbsp;

Maldives is an important country for India's maritime security and there have been concerns in India over China's growing influence over the country in the last few years.&nbsp;

The Navy spokesperson said the four-month long refit of Huravee was part of an initiative by the Indian Navy to enhance its outreach to friendly foreign navies in the Indian Ocean Region.

"The ship had arrived at Visakhapatnam on 12 Jul 18 and successfully completed her refit on Nov 14," the official said.&nbsp;

"Major repairs were undertaken on the ship's hull, main propulsion and auxiliaries. In addition number of systems and equipment were upgraded for better performance and reliability," he said.&nbsp;

India Thursday handed over to Maldivian Coast Guard one of its ships after carrying out major refit on it, the Indian Navy said. "Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee successfully completed her refit at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, and the ship was formally handed over to the island nation," a Navy spokesperson said The handing over of the ship comes two days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays a day-long visit to Maldives to attend the swearing-in ceremony of new Maldivian president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

India Thursday handed over to Maldivian Coast Guard one of its ships after carrying out major refit on it, the Indian Navy said. "Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee successfully completed her refit at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam, and the ship was formally handed over to the island nation," a Navy spokesperson said The handing over of the ship comes two days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays a day-long visit to Maldives to attend the swearing-in ceremony of new Maldivian president Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Modi's visit is seen as an indication of an attempt by New Delhi to mend bilateral ties, which nosedived during the outgoing Abdulla Yameen government. India-Maldives ties came under strain under Yameen and the relations deteriorated further after he imposed emergency in the island nation on February 5 this year. Maldives is an important country for India's maritime security and there have been concerns in India over China's growing influence over the country in the last few years. The Navy spokesperson said the four-month long refit of Huravee was part of an initiative by the Indian Navy to enhance its outreach to friendly foreign navies in the Indian Ocean Region. "The ship had arrived at Visakhapatnam on 12 Jul 18 and successfully completed her refit on Nov 14," the official said. "Major repairs were undertaken on the ship's hull, main propulsion and auxiliaries. In addition number of systems and equipment were upgraded for better performance and reliability," he said.

Indian navy refits Maldivian Coast Guard ship

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