PM Modi Meets Tulsi Gabbard: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in the United States on Wednesday as he began his visit, during which he will meet with US President Donald Trump. After landing, PM Modi posted on X that he is looking forward to meeting Trump and building upon the India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-us-visit-indian-premier-to-meet-dear-friend-us-president-donald-trump-amid-tariff-threats-and-mass-deportations-8715277" aria-label="PM Modi&rsquo;s US visit: Indian premier to meet &lsquo;dear friend&rsquo; Trump amid tariff threats, mass&nbsp;deportations">PM Modi&rsquo;s US visit: Indian premier to meet &lsquo;dear friend&rsquo; Trump amid tariff threats, mass&nbsp;deportations</a>
Vinay Mohan Kwatra, India's Ambassador to the US, and other officials welcomed PM Modi at the airport. He was also received by the Indian diaspora in Washington DC. People of the Indian community were gathered outside Blair House to welcome PM Modi.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/modi-led-indian-govt-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-to-introduce-new-income-tax-bill-2025-in-parliament-what-to-expect-8714586" aria-label="Indian govt to introduce new Income Tax Bill 2025 in Parliament - What to expect?">Indian govt to introduce new Income Tax Bill 2025 in Parliament - What to expect?</a>&nbsp;
"Despite the cold weather, the Indian diaspora in Washington DC has welcomed me with a very special welcome. My gratitude to them," PM Modi said.&nbsp;
This is PM Modi's first visit to the US after Trump assumed office for the second term. The visit aims to strengthen ties between the two nations. "Our nations will keep working closely for the benefit of our people and for a better future for our planet," the India PM said.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-criticises-freebies-says-people-not-willing-to-work-8715261" aria-label="Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work">Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work</a>&nbsp;
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Landed in Washington DC a short while ago. Looking forward to meeting <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> Donald Trump and building upon the India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Our nations will keep working closely for the benefit of our people and for a better future for our planet.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/dDMun17fPq">pic.twitter.com/dDMun17fPq</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1889827328647372915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
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A warm reception in the winter chill! Despite the cold weather, the Indian diaspora in Washington DC has welcomed me with a very special welcome. My gratitude to them. <a href="https://t.co/H1LXWafTC2">pic.twitter.com/H1LXWafTC2</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1889835452850643077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>PM Modi meets Tulsi Gabbard&nbsp;</h2>
PM Modi held one-on-one interaction with Tulsi Gabbard, who was appointed the director of national intelligence. The Republican-controlled US Senate voted 52 to 48 to confirm Gabbard on Wednesday as Trump's choice to lead the country's intelligence services.&nbsp;
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oman-to-host-indian-ocean-conference-from-feb-16-17th-8714733" aria-label="Oman to host Indian Ocean Conference from Feb 16-17th">Oman to host Indian Ocean Conference from Feb 16-17th</a>
PM Modi wrote, "Met USA&rsquo;s Director of National Intelligence, @TulsiGabbard in Washington DC. Congratulated her on her confirmation. Discussed various aspects of the India-USA friendship, of which she&rsquo;s always been a strong votary."&nbsp;
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Met USA&rsquo;s Director of National Intelligence, <a href="https://twitter.com/TulsiGabbard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TulsiGabbard</a> in Washington DC. Congratulated her on her confirmation. Discussed various aspects of the India-USA friendship, of which she&rsquo;s always been a strong votary. <a href="https://t.co/w2bhsh8CKF">pic.twitter.com/w2bhsh8CKF</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1889846510726283412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World | India News | Modi's visit includes a meeting with Tulsi Gabbard, newly confirmed as the Director of National Intelligence, to discuss strengthening the India-USA friendship.

PM Modi Meets Tulsi Gabbard: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in the United States on Wednesday as he began his visit, during which he will meet with US President Donald Trump. After landing, PM Modi posted on X that he is looking forward to meeting Trump and building upon the India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Also read: PM Modi’s US visit: Indian premier to meet ‘dear friend’ Trump amid tariff threats, mass deportations Vinay Mohan Kwatra, India's Ambassador to the US, and other officials welcomed PM Modi at the airport. He was also received by the Indian diaspora in Washington DC. People of the Indian community were gathered outside Blair House to welcome PM Modi. Also read: Indian govt to introduce new Income Tax Bill 2025 in Parliament - What to expect? "Despite the cold weather, the Indian diaspora in Washington DC has welcomed me with a very special welcome. My gratitude to them," PM Modi said. This is PM Modi's first visit to the US after Trump assumed office for the second term. The visit aims to strengthen ties between the two nations. "Our nations will keep working closely for the benefit of our people and for a better future for our planet," the India PM said. Also read: Supreme court criticises freebies, says people not willing to work Landed in Washington DC a short while ago. Looking forward to meeting @POTUS Donald Trump and building upon the India-USA Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Our nations will keep working closely for the benefit of our people and for a better future for our planet.… pic.twitter.com/dDMun17fPq — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2025 A warm reception in the winter chill! Despite the cold weather, the Indian diaspora in Washington DC has welcomed me with a very special welcome. My gratitude to them. pic.twitter.com/H1LXWafTC2 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2025 PM Modi meets Tulsi Gabbard PM Modi held one-on-one interaction with Tulsi Gabbard, who was appointed the director of national intelligence. The Republican-controlled US Senate voted 52 to 48 to confirm Gabbard on Wednesday as Trump's choice to lead the country's intelligence services. Also read: Oman to host Indian Ocean Conference from Feb 16-17th PM Modi wrote, "Met USA’s Director of National Intelligence, @TulsiGabbard in Washington DC. Congratulated her on her confirmation. Discussed various aspects of the India-USA friendship, of which she’s always been a strong votary." Met USA’s Director of National Intelligence, @TulsiGabbard in Washington DC. Congratulated her on her confirmation. Discussed various aspects of the India-USA friendship, of which she’s always been a strong votary. pic.twitter.com/w2bhsh8CKF — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 13, 2025 (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi lands in US, meets US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is gearing up for a high-stakes meeting with US President Donald Trump and his agenda is likely to be packed with a range of issues that have unfolded recently such as trade tariffs, the Chabahar port, and the deportations of Indians.

PM Modi’s US Agenda: Tariffs, deportations, NRIs, Iran

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Paris, and extended a friendly greeting, expressing his enthusiasm for the AI Action Summit, which he is going to co-chair with him.
Macron also welcomed United States Vice President JD Vance to the AI Summit.
Sharing a post on X, Macron wrote, "Welcome to Paris, my friend @NarendraModi! Nice to meet you dear @VP Vance! Welcome to all our partners for the AI Action Summit. Let's get to work!"
Earlier, PM Modi had posted on X, "Delighted to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-president-emmanuel-macron-uses-his-deepfakes-to-promote-ai-summit-8706626">French President Emmanuel Macron uses his deepfakes to promote AI summit</a>
In another post, PM Modi shared the highlights of his welcome in Paris. "Here are highlights from the memorable welcome in Paris yesterday," PM Modi wrote on X.
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Delighted to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris. <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZxyziqUHGn">pic.twitter.com/ZxyziqUHGn</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1889043310695641450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
Upon his arrival to Paris, PM Modi had received a warm welcome from the members of the Indian diaspora. Members of the Indian community also sang 'Hare Krishna' while they awaited the arrival of PM Modi in Paris.
After welcoming PM Modi at a hotel in Paris, a member of the Indian community said, "Today is my birthday, it's a big day for me and he (PM Modi) blessed me."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-french-president-macron-to-jointly-inaugurate-indian-consulate-in-marseille-8691162">PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille</a>
Another member of the Indian community had said, "It is such a good moment that PM Modi has come here for the AI summit. With every visit of PM Modi, we achieve a lot. This time a new consulate will be opening. We have one request if there can be a cultural centre here."
The Prime Minister is set to co-chair the AI Action Summit alongside the French President, engaging with global leaders and tech industry executives to explore AI-driven advancements for the public good. The visit also holds historical significance, as the two leaders will jointly inaugurate India's first consulate in Marseille, marking a milestone in diplomatic outreach.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-pm-modis-us-visit-trumps-top-economic-adviser-calls-indias-tariffs-enormously-high-8708633">Ahead of PM Modi&rsquo;s US visit, Trump&rsquo;s top economic adviser calls India&rsquo;s tariffs &lsquo;enormously high&rsquo;</a>
The visit aligns with ongoing efforts to deepen the India-France strategic partnership, including reviewing progress on the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, an initiative focused on long-term cooperation in key sectors.
During his stay, PM Modi will travel to Marseille with Macron, where they will visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, a significant international collaboration in nuclear fusion research. In a tribute to historical ties, the Prime Minister will also visit the Mazargues War Cemetery to honour Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars.
Following his visit to France, PM Modi will travel to the United States for a two-day visit at the invitation of President Donald Trump.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-in-paris-french-band-performs-indias-national-anthem-to-honour-pms-visit-watch-8708728">Modi in Paris: French band performs India&rsquo;s National Anthem to honour PM&rsquo;s&nbsp;visit&nbsp;|&nbsp;Watch</a>
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Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

India news | World | In another post, PM Modi shared the highlights of his welcome in Paris. "Here are highlights from the memorable welcome in Paris yesterday," PM Modi wrote on X.

French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Paris, and extended a friendly greeting, expressing his enthusiasm for the AI Action Summit, which he is going to co-chair with him. Macron also welcomed United States Vice President JD Vance to the AI Summit. Sharing a post on X, Macron wrote, "Welcome to Paris, my friend @NarendraModi! Nice to meet you dear @VP Vance! Welcome to all our partners for the AI Action Summit. Let's get to work!" Earlier, PM Modi had posted on X, "Delighted to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris." Also read: French President Emmanuel Macron uses his deepfakes to promote AI summit In another post, PM Modi shared the highlights of his welcome in Paris. "Here are highlights from the memorable welcome in Paris yesterday," PM Modi wrote on X. Delighted to meet my friend, President Macron in Paris. @EmmanuelMacron pic.twitter.com/ZxyziqUHGn — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 10, 2025 Upon his arrival to Paris, PM Modi had received a warm welcome from the members of the Indian diaspora. Members of the Indian community also sang 'Hare Krishna' while they awaited the arrival of PM Modi in Paris. After welcoming PM Modi at a hotel in Paris, a member of the Indian community said, "Today is my birthday, it's a big day for me and he (PM Modi) blessed me." Also read: PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille Another member of the Indian community had said, "It is such a good moment that PM Modi has come here for the AI summit. With every visit of PM Modi, we achieve a lot. This time a new consulate will be opening. We have one request if there can be a cultural centre here." The Prime Minister is set to co-chair the AI Action Summit alongside the French President, engaging with global leaders and tech industry executives to explore AI-driven advancements for the public good. The visit also holds historical significance, as the two leaders will jointly inaugurate India's first consulate in Marseille, marking a milestone in diplomatic outreach. Also read: Ahead of PM Modi’s US visit, Trump’s top economic adviser calls India’s tariffs ‘enormously high’ The visit aligns with ongoing efforts to deepen the India-France strategic partnership, including reviewing progress on the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, an initiative focused on long-term cooperation in key sectors. During his stay, PM Modi will travel to Marseille with Macron, where they will visit the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project, a significant international collaboration in nuclear fusion research. In a tribute to historical ties, the Prime Minister will also visit the Mazargues War Cemetery to honour Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars. Following his visit to France, PM Modi will travel to the United States for a two-day visit at the invitation of President Donald Trump. Also read: Modi in Paris: French band performs India’s National Anthem to honour PM’s visit | Watch Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian PM Narendra Modi meets 'friend' Emmanuel Macron ahead of AI Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 8), while addressing party workers at BJP headquarters said that there is excitement and relief in the minds of the people for making 'Delhi AAP-da' free."&nbsp;
He said the people of Delhi were filled with both "enthusiasm and relief" after "freeing Delhi from AAPda", a wordplay used for linking AAP with disaster (aapda).&nbsp;
Modi further gave credit for his victory to the people's trust in BJP's governance and his vision for Delhi's future.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biggest-losers-of-delhi-election-ex-cm-kejriwal-sisodia-and-other-heavyweights-suffer-defeats-8702614" rel="dofollow">Biggest losers of Delhi election: Ex-CM Kejriwal, Sisodia, and other heavyweights suffer defeats</a>
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) headquarters in Delhi to celebrate the party's historic victory in the Delhi Assembly Election. Union Minister and BJP National President JP Nadda welcomed Modi.&nbsp;
The people of Delhi have handed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) a historic win in the assembly elections, ending a 27-year-long wait. The results, announced on Saturday (Feb 08), saw the BJP win 47 seats, while the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was reduced to just 21.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reasons-why-aap-swiped-out-from-delhi-after-ruling-for-10-years-8702516" rel="dofollow">Delhi Election Results: Reasons why AAP is swept out of power after ruling for 10 years</a>
<h2>'We'll return Delhi's love with development'</h2>
PM Modi thanked the voters saying that Delhi has given us love wholeheartedly and "I once again assure the people that will return you double the love in the form of development."&nbsp;
He further said that the people of Delhi have never disappointed him in the Lok Sabha polls. "In 2014, 2019, and 2024, they ensured BJP&rsquo;s victory in all seven seats," he added.&nbsp;
PM Modi stressed that this mandate reflects the people's trust in "Modi's guarantee".&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-election-results-2025-full-list-of-winners-from-bjp-aap-8702617" rel="dofollow">Delhi Election Results 2025: Who won which seat? Check list.</a>
<h2>'Delhi people real owners of city'</h2>
PM Modi said that people have freed Delhi of a decade of AAP-da (disaster), adding that the mandate to BJP is for development, vision, and trust.
&ldquo;The people of Delhi have made it clear they are the real owners of the city. They have rejected those who treated it as their property," he continued.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-election-result-2025-sandeep-dixit-loses-seat-but-challenges-kejriwals-longstanding-hold-8702594" rel="dofollow">Delhi Election Result 2025: Sandeep Dixit loses seat but challenges Kejriwal's longstanding hold</a>
<h2>"A new chapter of governance"</h2>
PM Modi, while addressing the party workers said, "I was seeing that BJP workers across the country had a pain in their hearts. It was about not being able to serve Delhi fully. But today, Delhi has accepted our request.&rdquo;
He added that the youth born in the 21st century will not witness BJP's good governance in Delhi for the first time.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Today's results show how much trust the country has in BJP's double-engine government," he said.&nbsp;
<h2>'Every section of society has voted for BJP'</h2>
Modi while especially thanking Delhi voters from "Poorvanchal", said, &ldquo;Every section of society has voted for BJP in Delhi. Today, the country has rejected appeasement and accepted the BJP's policy of 'santushtikaran'.&rdquo;
&ldquo;A huge roadblock has now been removed from Delhi's path of development," he added.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: PM Modi said the people of Delhi were filled with both "enthusiasm and relief" after "freeing Delhi from AAPda", a wordplay used for linking AAP with disaster (aapda). 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Feb 8), while addressing party workers at BJP headquarters said that there is excitement and relief in the minds of the people for making 'Delhi AAP-da' free." He said the people of Delhi were filled with both "enthusiasm and relief" after "freeing Delhi from AAPda", a wordplay used for linking AAP with disaster (aapda). Modi further gave credit for his victory to the people's trust in BJP's governance and his vision for Delhi's future. Also read: Biggest losers of Delhi election: Ex-CM Kejriwal, Sisodia, and other heavyweights suffer defeats Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) headquarters in Delhi to celebrate the party's historic victory in the Delhi Assembly Election. Union Minister and BJP National President JP Nadda welcomed Modi. The people of Delhi have handed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) a historic win in the assembly elections, ending a 27-year-long wait. The results, announced on Saturday (Feb 08), saw the BJP win 47 seats, while the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) was reduced to just 21. Also read: Delhi Election Results: Reasons why AAP is swept out of power after ruling for 10 years 'We'll return Delhi's love with development' PM Modi thanked the voters saying that Delhi has given us love wholeheartedly and "I once again assure the people that will return you double the love in the form of development." He further said that the people of Delhi have never disappointed him in the Lok Sabha polls. "In 2014, 2019, and 2024, they ensured BJP’s victory in all seven seats," he added. PM Modi stressed that this mandate reflects the people's trust in "Modi's guarantee". Also read: Delhi Election Results 2025: Who won which seat? Check list. 'Delhi people real owners of city' PM Modi said that people have freed Delhi of a decade of AAP-da (disaster), adding that the mandate to BJP is for development, vision, and trust. “The people of Delhi have made it clear they are the real owners of the city. They have rejected those who treated it as their property," he continued. Also read: Delhi Election Result 2025: Sandeep Dixit loses seat but challenges Kejriwal's longstanding hold "A new chapter of governance" PM Modi, while addressing the party workers said, "I was seeing that BJP workers across the country had a pain in their hearts. It was about not being able to serve Delhi fully. But today, Delhi has accepted our request.” He added that the youth born in the 21st century will not witness BJP's good governance in Delhi for the first time. “Today's results show how much trust the country has in BJP's double-engine government," he said. 'Every section of society has voted for BJP' Modi while especially thanking Delhi voters from "Poorvanchal", said, “Every section of society has voted for BJP in Delhi. Today, the country has rejected appeasement and accepted the BJP's policy of 'santushtikaran'.” “A huge roadblock has now been removed from Delhi's path of development," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Excitement for victory, relief from AAP-da’: PM Modi thanks people of Delhi for BJP's historic comeback

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is heading to the US next week. What golden gift will he take for US President Donald Trump?

What golden gift should Modi take for Trump?

A joint India-France roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), talks on India Middle East Europe corridor, &amp; an announcement on a Small Modular Reactor in the Nuclear domain will be among the key focus areas during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's France visit next week. The Indian prime minister will be in the country from February 10-12, during which he will attend the AI summit in which India is the co-host along with France.
This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. Diplomatic sources said, "One of the results of the visit will be a bilateral roadmap on AI between India and France." US will be represented by Vice President JD Vance &amp; China by one of its vice premiers.
<h2>Indian consulate in Marseille</h2>
PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will attend the CEO business forum and also travel to Marseille for the inauguration of the Indian consulate in the Mediterranean city in the south of France.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-french-president-macron-to-jointly-inaugurate-indian-consulate-in-marseille-8691162" rel="dofollow">PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille</a>
The announcement of the consulate was made during PM Modi's s 2022 France visit. The city could play a key role in the India Middle East Europe (IMEE) corridor, which was announced during the Delhi 2023 G20 summit.&nbsp;
Sources pointed, "Mumbai and Marseille will be the two ends of the corridor. IMEE will be high on the agenda." France has appointed G&eacute;rard Mestrallet as its Special Envoy for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), who visited India in November of last year to hold discussions. In fact, France is the only country so far to announce a special envoy for the mega economic connectivity project. &nbsp;
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/0402_WION_MODI_VISIT_11AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/0402_WION_MODI_VISIT_11AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=270&amp;tags=india, pm modi, usa" title="India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit USA after concluding France trip" id="PL_iframe_block-m6ugl3k7-4jxjq3ia-8oaoa4a1"></iframe>
The overall focus will be on defence &amp; security, economic ties &amp; people to people relationships with a focus on the French side keen to host more Indian students.
<h2>Defence deals</h2>
Regarding any announcement in the defence area, including the Rafale-M &amp; Scorpene deal, sources said, "Important discussion underway...let us wait and see, can't confirm, but long tradition of contract signing."
The visit to France comes just days ahead of an expected visit of the President of the European Commission, Ursala von Der Leyen to India along with her Cabinet during which many issues will be in focus, including giving a push to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).&nbsp;
Sources pointed out that on India EU FTA we "need to sit around the table. Von Der Leyen's India visit will focus on a common objective. India EU relationship is a priority within the France-India relationship."
PM Modi has visited France several times, with his last trip coming in 2022. French President Macron was in India in 2024 as the chief guest on India's Republic Day. He could also visit India next year, for the India-France Innovation Year.

World News | This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. 

A joint India-France roadmap on Artificial Intelligence (AI), talks on India Middle East Europe corridor, & an announcement on a Small Modular Reactor in the Nuclear domain will be among the key focus areas during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's France visit next week. The Indian prime minister will be in the country from February 10-12, during which he will attend the AI summit in which India is the co-host along with France. This summit will include discussions on creating a new AI Foundation that promotes an open-source approach to AI technology, with significant investments being planned. Diplomatic sources said, "One of the results of the visit will be a bilateral roadmap on AI between India and France." US will be represented by Vice President JD Vance & China by one of its vice premiers. Indian consulate in Marseille PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron will attend the CEO business forum and also travel to Marseille for the inauguration of the Indian consulate in the Mediterranean city in the south of France. Also Read: PM Modi, French President Macron to jointly inaugurate Indian consulate in Marseille The announcement of the consulate was made during PM Modi's s 2022 France visit. The city could play a key role in the India Middle East Europe (IMEE) corridor, which was announced during the Delhi 2023 G20 summit. Sources pointed, "Mumbai and Marseille will be the two ends of the corridor. IMEE will be high on the agenda." France has appointed Gérard Mestrallet as its Special Envoy for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), who visited India in November of last year to hold discussions. In fact, France is the only country so far to announce a special envoy for the mega economic connectivity project. The overall focus will be on defence & security, economic ties & people to people relationships with a focus on the French side keen to host more Indian students. Defence deals Regarding any announcement in the defence area, including the Rafale-M & Scorpene deal, sources said, "Important discussion underway...let us wait and see, can't confirm, but long tradition of contract signing." The visit to France comes just days ahead of an expected visit of the President of the European Commission, Ursala von Der Leyen to India along with her Cabinet during which many issues will be in focus, including giving a push to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Sources pointed out that on India EU FTA we "need to sit around the table. Von Der Leyen's India visit will focus on a common objective. India EU relationship is a priority within the France-India relationship." PM Modi has visited France several times, with his last trip coming in 2022. French President Macron was in India in 2024 as the chief guest on India's Republic Day. He could also visit India next year, for the India-France Innovation Year.

AI roadmap, small modular reactor, IMEE key focus during PM Modi's France visit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (Feb 6), replied to the Motion of Thanks debate in the Rajya Sabha, saying that President Droupadi Murmu's speech was inspiring and effective and a guide for the future of all people.
&ldquo;The president discussed in detail all the topics like India's achievements, the world's expectations from India, the self-confidence of the common man, and the resolve for a developed India. She has also shown the future direction of the country. The speech of the President was inspiring, effective and a guide for the future for all of us,&rdquo; PM Modi said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-opposition-stages-protest-demanding-discussion-in-parliament-over-deportation-of-indian-nationals-from-us-8696267">India: Opposition stages protest demanding discussion in Parliament over deportation of Indian nationals from US</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'</h2>
Attacking the Congress party over &ldquo;dynasty politics&rdquo;, the Prime Minister said that the entire party is dedicated to just one family thus, the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' will not work for them.
&ldquo;A lot has been said about 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' here. I don't understand why people are fretting over this. It is a shared responsibility of everyone and the people of India have chosen us for exactly this. However, to expect Congress to understand this slogan and how it works would be a major mistake. The entire party is dedicated to just one family, and thus, for it to work with the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' is impossible,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;Congress prepared such a model of politics in which there was a blend of lies, fraud, corruption, nepotism and appeasement. Where there is a blend of all these things, there can be no 'Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas'. The supreme in Congress' model is 'family first', and that is why their policies, their tone have been involved in managing that,&rdquo; the Prime Minister added.
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<h2 dir="ltr">'Nation First'</h2>
PM Narendra Modi said that his party has constantly worked with the idea of &lsquo;Nation First&rsquo; and the countrymen have seen them deliver their promises.
&ldquo;Family first is the primary concern for Congress' model. Thus, their policies, functioning, and speeches - have all been focussed on ensuring this. I'm grateful to the nation for choosing us to serve for the third time. The people of India have tested our policy of progress and have seen us deliver on our promises. We've constantly worked with the idea of 'Nation First',&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;During Congress tenure, there was appeasement in everything. It was their way of doing politics. After 2014, India got an alternate model of governance. This model is not focused on appeasement but on satisfaction,&rdquo; PM Modi added.
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<h2>BR Ambedkar</h2>
The Prime Minister accused the Congress of insulting Bharat Ratna BR Ambedkar saying that the party made all efforts to defeat him twice in the Lok Sabha polls.
&ldquo;Congress had hatred and anger towards B R Ambedkar. They made all efforts to defeat him twice in Lok Sabha polls. They never considered him for the Bharat Ratna. The people of this country have respected Baba Saheb's contributions to the nation and today, Congress is being forced to say 'Jai Bhim', albeit unhappily,&rdquo; he said.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: Indian PM Narendra Modi praised President Murmu's speech in the Rajya Sabha, highlighting its inspiring and effective guidance for India's future progress.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (Feb 6), replied to the Motion of Thanks debate in the Rajya Sabha, saying that President Droupadi Murmu's speech was inspiring and effective and a guide for the future of all people. “The president discussed in detail all the topics like India's achievements, the world's expectations from India, the self-confidence of the common man, and the resolve for a developed India. She has also shown the future direction of the country. The speech of the President was inspiring, effective and a guide for the future for all of us,” PM Modi said. Also read | India: Opposition stages protest demanding discussion in Parliament over deportation of Indian nationals from US 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' Attacking the Congress party over “dynasty politics”, the Prime Minister said that the entire party is dedicated to just one family thus, the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' will not work for them. “A lot has been said about 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' here. I don't understand why people are fretting over this. It is a shared responsibility of everyone and the people of India have chosen us for exactly this. However, to expect Congress to understand this slogan and how it works would be a major mistake. The entire party is dedicated to just one family, and thus, for it to work with the motto of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' is impossible,” he said. “Congress prepared such a model of politics in which there was a blend of lies, fraud, corruption, nepotism and appeasement. Where there is a blend of all these things, there can be no 'Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas'. The supreme in Congress' model is 'family first', and that is why their policies, their tone have been involved in managing that,” the Prime Minister added. Also read | Indian Air Force's Mirage 2000 aircraft crashes near Shivpuri in Madhya Pradesh 'Nation First' PM Narendra Modi said that his party has constantly worked with the idea of ‘Nation First’ and the countrymen have seen them deliver their promises. “Family first is the primary concern for Congress' model. Thus, their policies, functioning, and speeches - have all been focussed on ensuring this. I'm grateful to the nation for choosing us to serve for the third time. The people of India have tested our policy of progress and have seen us deliver on our promises. We've constantly worked with the idea of 'Nation First',” he said. “During Congress tenure, there was appeasement in everything. It was their way of doing politics. After 2014, India got an alternate model of governance. This model is not focused on appeasement but on satisfaction,” PM Modi added. Also read | 'Engaging with US to ensure deportees are not mistreated,' says Jaishankar as US deports 104 Indians BR Ambedkar The Prime Minister accused the Congress of insulting Bharat Ratna BR Ambedkar saying that the party made all efforts to defeat him twice in the Lok Sabha polls. “Congress had hatred and anger towards B R Ambedkar. They made all efforts to defeat him twice in Lok Sabha polls. They never considered him for the Bharat Ratna. The people of this country have respected Baba Saheb's contributions to the nation and today, Congress is being forced to say 'Jai Bhim', albeit unhappily,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress party’s priority is ‘family first’, for us its ‘Nation First, Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’: PM Modi

The campaign for the Delhi Assembly election came to an end, with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) coming into effect after 5 pm on Monday. The city will go to the polls on 5 February, bringing months of intense electioneering to a close.
This election cycle has been marked by aggressive campaigning, AI-generated memes, and sharp political exchanges. Parties have competed to win over voters with promises, including freebies for women and young people.
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<h2>Heavyweight campaigners and star power</h2>
The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress deployed their top leaders to lead the charge. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with senior ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Piyush Goyal, spearheaded the BJP&rsquo;s electioneering. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also played a key role, as did former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, and other chief ministers from BJP- and Congress-ruled states.
Celebrities also joined the fray, with cricketer Harbhajan Singh and Bollywood actor Shatrughan Sinha adding star power to AAP&rsquo;s campaign.
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Key issues dominating the election discourse included financial assistance for women, corruption allegations linked to the liquor policy and &lsquo;Sheesh Mahal&rsquo; controversy, unemployment, water supply and sewage issues, air pollution, the Yamuna&rsquo;s condition, and free health insurance.
<h2>Final day of campaigning</h2>
The final day saw a flurry of activities. The BJP organised 22 roadshows and rallies across Delhi, while PM Modi released a video of his interaction with students.
BJP&rsquo;s New Delhi candidate, Parvesh Verma, announced that if his party wins, Talkatora Stadium would be renamed after &ldquo;Maharishi Valmiki.&rdquo; He further stated that all major airports, stadiums, and significant buildings should be named after a &ldquo;Bhagwan or a martyr&rdquo; who sacrificed their life for the nation.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brooms-bristles-are-scattering-pm-modi-takes-dig-at-kejriwals-aap-ahead-of-delhi-assembly-polls-8683574">'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls</a>
Amit Shah also took a swipe at AAP, claiming that states with a &ldquo;double-engine BJP government&rdquo; have seen progress in the last ten years, whereas Delhi has fallen behind due to AAP&rsquo;s confrontations with the central government.
Meanwhile, AAP&rsquo;s campaign ended with Arvind Kejriwal holding public meetings in Chhatarpur and Kalkaji and releasing a video alleging attempts to manipulate Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). AAP&rsquo;s Jangpura candidate, Manish Sisodia, accused the BJP of using &ldquo;threats&rdquo; and &ldquo;hooliganism&rdquo; before the election. &ldquo;The public will respond through their votes and re-elect Kejriwal as chief minister,&rdquo; he stated.
The Congress, which ruled Delhi for 15 years between 1998 and 2013, appeared reinvigorated in its campaign efforts.
With just hours left before voting, the Delhi election office has enforced restrictions, prohibiting the public display of election material through films, television, or other electronic media, as well as public meetings, in the 48-hour period before polling ends.
Delhi&rsquo;s 70-member Assembly will be decided on 5 February, with results set to be announced on 8 February. In the outgoing House, AAP holds 62 seats, while BJP has eight.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-elections-2025-arvind-kejriwal-appeals-to-bjp-supporters-to-vote-for-aap-regardless-of-their-party-affiliation-8679837">Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign</a>
According to the Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), 1.56 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots at 13,766 polling stations. Among them, 83.76 lakh are men, 72.36 lakh are women, and 1,267 are third-gender voters. This year, 699 candidates are contesting, compared to 672 in 2020.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: This election cycle has been marked by aggressive campaigning, AI-generated memes, and sharp political exchanges between AAP, BJP, and Congress leaders.

The campaign for the Delhi Assembly election came to an end, with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) coming into effect after 5 pm on Monday. The city will go to the polls on 5 February, bringing months of intense electioneering to a close. This election cycle has been marked by aggressive campaigning, AI-generated memes, and sharp political exchanges. Parties have competed to win over voters with promises, including freebies for women and young people. Also read: EU should do all to avert ‘totally unnecessary and stupid tariff wars’, says Polish PM Donald Tusk Heavyweight campaigners and star power The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Congress deployed their top leaders to lead the charge. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with senior ministers Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, and Piyush Goyal, spearheaded the BJP’s electioneering. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also played a key role, as did former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, and other chief ministers from BJP- and Congress-ruled states. Celebrities also joined the fray, with cricketer Harbhajan Singh and Bollywood actor Shatrughan Sinha adding star power to AAP’s campaign. Also read: Kejriwal accuses BJP of trying to deceive slum residents in Delhi by offering them money Key issues dominating the election discourse included financial assistance for women, corruption allegations linked to the liquor policy and ‘Sheesh Mahal’ controversy, unemployment, water supply and sewage issues, air pollution, the Yamuna’s condition, and free health insurance. Final day of campaigning The final day saw a flurry of activities. The BJP organised 22 roadshows and rallies across Delhi, while PM Modi released a video of his interaction with students. BJP’s New Delhi candidate, Parvesh Verma, announced that if his party wins, Talkatora Stadium would be renamed after “Maharishi Valmiki.” He further stated that all major airports, stadiums, and significant buildings should be named after a “Bhagwan or a martyr” who sacrificed their life for the nation. Also read: 'Parts of broomstick splintering': PM Modi takes dig at Kejriwal's AAP ahead of Delhi assembly polls Amit Shah also took a swipe at AAP, claiming that states with a “double-engine BJP government” have seen progress in the last ten years, whereas Delhi has fallen behind due to AAP’s confrontations with the central government. Meanwhile, AAP’s campaign ended with Arvind Kejriwal holding public meetings in Chhatarpur and Kalkaji and releasing a video alleging attempts to manipulate Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). AAP’s Jangpura candidate, Manish Sisodia, accused the BJP of using “threats” and “hooliganism” before the election. “The public will respond through their votes and re-elect Kejriwal as chief minister,” he stated. The Congress, which ruled Delhi for 15 years between 1998 and 2013, appeared reinvigorated in its campaign efforts. With just hours left before voting, the Delhi election office has enforced restrictions, prohibiting the public display of election material through films, television, or other electronic media, as well as public meetings, in the 48-hour period before polling ends. Delhi’s 70-member Assembly will be decided on 5 February, with results set to be announced on 8 February. In the outgoing House, AAP holds 62 seats, while BJP has eight. Also read: Delhi Elections 2025: Arvind Kejriwal urges BJP supporters to vote for AAP even as 8 of his party MLAs resign According to the Delhi Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), 1.56 crore voters are eligible to cast their ballots at 13,766 polling stations. Among them, 83.76 lakh are men, 72.36 lakh are women, and 1,267 are third-gender voters. This year, 699 candidates are contesting, compared to 672 in 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi election campaign ends: AAP, BJP, Congress make final push before Feb 5 vote

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India is using all of its resources to secure the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 38th National Games in Dehradun on Tuesday (Jan 28), PM Modi said hosting the Games in the country will boost the profile of Indian sports.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has submitted a Letter of Intent to the Future Host Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), formally expressing India's interest in hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036.
"We are pushing for hosting rights of 2036 Olympics, it will take Indian sports to new heights," PM Modi said.
"Wherever Olympics happen, all sectors gain. It creates better facilities for athletes," he added.
Modi announced India's intention to host the 2036 Games during the 2023 International Olympic Committee Session. The IOA has filed an official expression of interest with the IOC.
"It is our endeavour to enhance your capabilities, and we are focussed on supporting you. We consider sports an essential aspect in the development of country," Modi said, while addressing the gathered athletes at the ceremony.
"It is a beautiful portrait of 'Ek Bharat, Sreshth Bharat'," Modi said, referring to the Games.
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Los Angeles is scheduled to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, and Brisbane, Australia, will host the 2032 Games.
Meanwhile, the 38th National Games began on Tuesday in Uttarakhand with a vibrant ceremony celebrating the state's religious heritage and biodiversity. Around 10,000 athletes will compete across 32 disciplines until February 14, with events held in seven cities, Dehradun being the main venue.
Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Games, attended by 25,000 spectators despite chilly weather, alongside Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and other dignitaries. PM Modi received traditional gifts and replicas of the mascot 'Mauli,' inspired by the state bird Monal. The Games coincide with Uttarakhand's 25th anniversary.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Olympics Sports: PM announced India's intention to host 2036 Games during the 2023 International Olympic Committee Session. The Indian Olympic Association has filed an official expression of interest with IOC

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India is using all of its resources to secure the hosting rights for the 2036 Olympics. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 38th National Games in Dehradun on Tuesday (Jan 28), PM Modi said hosting the Games in the country will boost the profile of Indian sports. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has submitted a Letter of Intent to the Future Host Commission of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), formally expressing India's interest in hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2036. "We are pushing for hosting rights of 2036 Olympics, it will take Indian sports to new heights," PM Modi said. "Wherever Olympics happen, all sectors gain. It creates better facilities for athletes," he added. Modi announced India's intention to host the 2036 Games during the 2023 International Olympic Committee Session. The IOA has filed an official expression of interest with the IOC. "It is our endeavour to enhance your capabilities, and we are focussed on supporting you. We consider sports an essential aspect in the development of country," Modi said, while addressing the gathered athletes at the ceremony. "It is a beautiful portrait of 'Ek Bharat, Sreshth Bharat'," Modi said, referring to the Games. Also Read: IND vs ENG 3rd T20I: WATCH | Varun Chakravarthy takes five-wicket haul Los Angeles is scheduled to host the 2028 Summer Olympics, and Brisbane, Australia, will host the 2032 Games. Meanwhile, the 38th National Games began on Tuesday in Uttarakhand with a vibrant ceremony celebrating the state's religious heritage and biodiversity. Around 10,000 athletes will compete across 32 disciplines until February 14, with events held in seven cities, Dehradun being the main venue. Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the Games, attended by 25,000 spectators despite chilly weather, alongside Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami and other dignitaries. PM Modi received traditional gifts and replicas of the mascot 'Mauli,' inspired by the state bird Monal. The Games coincide with Uttarakhand's 25th anniversary. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi reiterates India's bid to host 2036 Olympics, says 'it will take Indian sports to new heights'

Citing the success of recent high-profile concerts like British rock band Coldplay&rsquo;s shows in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Jan 28) highlighted the vast potential for concert economy in India.
While addressing a conclave in the eastern state of India, Odisha, PM Modi said he expected the state governments and the private sector to focus on infrastructure and skills to give a boost to the 'concert economy' sector.
"In a country with such a rich heritage in music, dance, and storytelling, with such a large pool of youth and a massive consumer base for concerts, there are vast opportunities for the concert economy. In the past decade, both the trend and demand for live events have grown. You must have seen the incredible images from the Coldplay concerts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad in recent days. This is proof of how much scope live concerts have in India," PM Modi highlighted.
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He said that the 'concert economy' sector was growing in the country and the trend of live shows and concerts has increased in India in the past decade.
"Today, the concert economy sector is also growing in India. A country which has such a huge legacy of music, dance and storytelling, India is a huge consumer of concerts. There are many possibilities for the concert economy. The trend of live events and concerts has increased in the last 10 years," he said.
<h2 dir="ltr">India to host first-ever World Audio-Visual Summit</h2>
The Prime Minister also announced that India will host the first-ever World Audio-Visual Summit next month, showcasing the country's creative power globally.
&ldquo;Next month, India will host the first-ever World Audio-Visual Summit, a major event that will give the country's creative power a new identity globally. The revenue generated from such events in the states also contributes to advancing the economy," he said.
PM Modi's remarks came after Coldplay held five concerts in India as part of the Music of The Spheres World Tour. The British rock band's tour to India was a huge success, with all of its shows sold out. The concerts were widely praised for their seamless organisation and vibrant crowd.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarakhand-makes-history-as-indias-first-state-to-implement-uniform-civil-code-8659429">Uttarakhand makes history as India&rsquo;s first state to implement Uniform Civil Code</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Coldplay in India</h2>
Coldplay held three shows in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai earlier this month, before heading to Ahmedabad for two concerts on January 25 and 26.
The band's frontman, Chris Martin, was the talk of the town for interacting with the audience in Hindi, Marathi and Gujarati. He also gave shoutouts to actor Shah Rukh Khan and cricketer Jasprit Bumrah, who attended the Ahmedabad event on Sunday.
As Sunday's concert coincided with Republic Day, the Grammy-winning rock band also tapped into patriotic fervour with soulful piano renditions of 'Vande Mataram', followed by 'Maa Tujhe Salaam'.
The British rock band also includes guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman, drummer and percussionist Will Champion, and manager Phil Harvey.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

PM Modi praises Coldplay's concerts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, emphasizing India's booming concert economy and its potential for future cultural events.

Citing the success of recent high-profile concerts like British rock band Coldplay’s shows in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Jan 28) highlighted the vast potential for concert economy in India. While addressing a conclave in the eastern state of India, Odisha, PM Modi said he expected the state governments and the private sector to focus on infrastructure and skills to give a boost to the 'concert economy' sector. "In a country with such a rich heritage in music, dance, and storytelling, with such a large pool of youth and a massive consumer base for concerts, there are vast opportunities for the concert economy. In the past decade, both the trend and demand for live events have grown. You must have seen the incredible images from the Coldplay concerts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad in recent days. This is proof of how much scope live concerts have in India," PM Modi highlighted. Also read | Countdown underway for ISRO's 100th rocket launch He said that the 'concert economy' sector was growing in the country and the trend of live shows and concerts has increased in India in the past decade. "Today, the concert economy sector is also growing in India. A country which has such a huge legacy of music, dance and storytelling, India is a huge consumer of concerts. There are many possibilities for the concert economy. The trend of live events and concerts has increased in the last 10 years," he said. India to host first-ever World Audio-Visual Summit The Prime Minister also announced that India will host the first-ever World Audio-Visual Summit next month, showcasing the country's creative power globally. “Next month, India will host the first-ever World Audio-Visual Summit, a major event that will give the country's creative power a new identity globally. The revenue generated from such events in the states also contributes to advancing the economy," he said. PM Modi's remarks came after Coldplay held five concerts in India as part of the Music of The Spheres World Tour. The British rock band's tour to India was a huge success, with all of its shows sold out. The concerts were widely praised for their seamless organisation and vibrant crowd. Also read | Uttarakhand makes history as India’s first state to implement Uniform Civil Code Coldplay in India Coldplay held three shows in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai earlier this month, before heading to Ahmedabad for two concerts on January 25 and 26. The band's frontman, Chris Martin, was the talk of the town for interacting with the audience in Hindi, Marathi and Gujarati. He also gave shoutouts to actor Shah Rukh Khan and cricketer Jasprit Bumrah, who attended the Ahmedabad event on Sunday. As Sunday's concert coincided with Republic Day, the Grammy-winning rock band also tapped into patriotic fervour with soulful piano renditions of 'Vande Mataram', followed by 'Maa Tujhe Salaam'. The British rock band also includes guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman, drummer and percussionist Will Champion, and manager Phil Harvey. (With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Modi highlights India's growing concert economy, citing Coldplay's tour

ANI | Prime Minister Narendra Modi set a powerful example on India's 76th&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/republic-day-2025" rel="dofollow">Republic Day</a> on Sunday by picking up waste on the Kartavya Path, promoting the concept of plogging and the goal of 'Swacch Bharat' (Clean India).
This gesture, witnessed by thousands, highlighted the importance of cleanliness and community involvement in maintaining public spaces.
PM Modi noticed waste on Kartavya Path and picked it up while receiving Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar. PM Modi has emphasised from time to time to be involved in cleanliness acts to ensure a 'Swacch Bharat'.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-mule-indian-armys-robotic-dog-that-steels-show-at-republic-day-parade-8655647" rel="dofollow">Meet MULE, Indian Army's robotic dog that steals the show at Republic Day parade</a>
This act was particularly significant, given PM Modi's previous emphasis on plogging and community-led initiatives to achieve a cleaner India. In November of last year, he hailed a plogging group in 'Mann Ki Baat' who has been working to clean Ganga ghats in Kanpur.
In December of last year, the Ministry of Defence organised a massive plogging programme at more than 400 locations throughout the country as part of the activities of Swachhta Pakhwada.
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/indian-pm-modi-dons-yet-another-bright-red-and-yellow-turban-for-republic-day-2025-celebrations-8654677" rel="dofollow"> Indian PM Modi dons yet another bright-coloured turban for Republic Day 2025</a>
Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, followed by the national anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto joined the celebration as the chief guest of this year.
This year, Republic Day highlights the 75 years since the enactment of the Constitution and emphasises "Jan Bhagidari" (people's participation).
PM Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, situated at India Gate, and paid tribute to the brave hearts who laid down their lives for the country, following which President Murmu unfurled the national flag, assisted by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worlds-largest-democracy-us-sends-warm-wishes-to-india-on-its-76th-republic-day-8654355" rel="dofollow">'World's largest democracy': US sends warm wishes to India on 76th Republic Day</a>
Around 10,000 special guests were invited to witness the parade, in line with the government's objective to increase 'Jan Bhagidari' in events of national importance. These special guests from different walks of life were the architects of 'Swarnim Bharat'. They include the best performers in various fields and those who have made the best use of the schemes of the government.
Tableaux from 16 state governments and Union Territories and 10 ministries and departments of the Central Government highlighting the theme 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas' participated in the parade this year.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India news: This gesture by PM Modi, witnessed by thousands, highlighted the importance of cleanliness and community involvement in maintaining public spaces.

ANI | Prime Minister Narendra Modi set a powerful example on India's 76th Republic Day on Sunday by picking up waste on the Kartavya Path, promoting the concept of plogging and the goal of 'Swacch Bharat' (Clean India). This gesture, witnessed by thousands, highlighted the importance of cleanliness and community involvement in maintaining public spaces. PM Modi noticed waste on Kartavya Path and picked it up while receiving Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar. PM Modi has emphasised from time to time to be involved in cleanliness acts to ensure a 'Swacch Bharat'. Also read: Meet MULE, Indian Army's robotic dog that steals the show at Republic Day parade This act was particularly significant, given PM Modi's previous emphasis on plogging and community-led initiatives to achieve a cleaner India. In November of last year, he hailed a plogging group in 'Mann Ki Baat' who has been working to clean Ganga ghats in Kanpur. In December of last year, the Ministry of Defence organised a massive plogging programme at more than 400 locations throughout the country as part of the activities of Swachhta Pakhwada. Also read: Indian PM Modi dons yet another bright-coloured turban for Republic Day 2025 Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, followed by the national anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto joined the celebration as the chief guest of this year. This year, Republic Day highlights the 75 years since the enactment of the Constitution and emphasises "Jan Bhagidari" (people's participation). PM Modi laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, situated at India Gate, and paid tribute to the brave hearts who laid down their lives for the country, following which President Murmu unfurled the national flag, assisted by Indian Navy officers Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Lieutenant Yogita Saini. Also read: 'World's largest democracy': US sends warm wishes to India on 76th Republic Day Around 10,000 special guests were invited to witness the parade, in line with the government's objective to increase 'Jan Bhagidari' in events of national importance. These special guests from different walks of life were the architects of 'Swarnim Bharat'. They include the best performers in various fields and those who have made the best use of the schemes of the government. Tableaux from 16 state governments and Union Territories and 10 ministries and departments of the Central Government highlighting the theme 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas' participated in the parade this year. Disclaimer: This story has been published from ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi picks up waste at Kartavya Path during Republic Day celebrations

India may seek to impose additional duties on American imports in response to US tariff hikes, Financial Express has reported, citing a document prepared by the government of PM Narendra Modi. The potential retaliatory steps would be in line with India&rsquo;s standard response to such external threats.
For instance, in 2019, New Delhi had slapped tariffs on apples, almonds and motorcycles from the US after the previous administration of US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Indian steel and aluminium. A total of 28 US products were targeted. India might take a similar approach this time around as well.
<h2>India also exploring lowering tariffs on US products</h2>
Earlier, Bloomberg reported that New Delhi was seeking to lower tariffs on American products. India is willing to narrow the $35.3 billion trade surplus with the US, its largest trading partner. The Bloomberg report said India was looking to boost imports of whiskey, steel and oil.
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2301_Manav_DISCUSS_11AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2301_Manav_DISCUSS_11AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=130&amp;tags=india us jaishnakar" title="'Trump administration prioritising India ties': Indian EAM on us visit" id="PL_iframe_block-m690m2x2-6lftkglo-ryv61fnw"></iframe>
For reduction of import duties, India will target products that are politically crucial for Republic Party, the report said, citing officials.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-donald-trump-right-does-china-control-the-panama-canal-explained-8646334">Is Donald Trump right, does China control the Panama Canal? Explained</a>
India&rsquo;s plan is to get the maximum out of any potential US-China trade war and to avoid confrontation with the Trump administration.
<h2>Trump&rsquo;s tariff threat</h2>
On his very first day in office, Donald Trump declared he would impose a 25 per cent tariff on Mexico and Canada by February 1.
On China, the Trump team is taking a cautious approach.&nbsp;Trump has decided against imposing tariffs immediately on the world&rsquo;s second-largest economy, indicating he is in a negotiating mood. Bloomberg reported that Trump wants to engage with China&rsquo;s Xi Jinping on trade matters.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-ridicules-donald-trumps-500-billion-ai-project-stargate-says-funding-actually-wasnt-there-8646169">Musk ridicules funding viability of Trump's $500 billion AI project Stargate: 'Actually wasn't there'</a>
Additionally, the GOP leader has warned BRICS nations also of massive tariff action if they opt for a new currency in order to challenge the supremacy of US dollar. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World | The potential retaliatory steps by the Indian government would be in line with India’s standard response to such external threats, as per media reports.

India may seek to impose additional duties on American imports in response to US tariff hikes, Financial Express has reported, citing a document prepared by the government of PM Narendra Modi. The potential retaliatory steps would be in line with India’s standard response to such external threats. For instance, in 2019, New Delhi had slapped tariffs on apples, almonds and motorcycles from the US after the previous administration of US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Indian steel and aluminium. A total of 28 US products were targeted. India might take a similar approach this time around as well. India also exploring lowering tariffs on US products Earlier, Bloomberg reported that New Delhi was seeking to lower tariffs on American products. India is willing to narrow the $35.3 billion trade surplus with the US, its largest trading partner. The Bloomberg report said India was looking to boost imports of whiskey, steel and oil. For reduction of import duties, India will target products that are politically crucial for Republic Party, the report said, citing officials. Also read: Is Donald Trump right, does China control the Panama Canal? Explained India’s plan is to get the maximum out of any potential US-China trade war and to avoid confrontation with the Trump administration. Trump’s tariff threat On his very first day in office, Donald Trump declared he would impose a 25 per cent tariff on Mexico and Canada by February 1. On China, the Trump team is taking a cautious approach. Trump has decided against imposing tariffs immediately on the world’s second-largest economy, indicating he is in a negotiating mood. Bloomberg reported that Trump wants to engage with China’s Xi Jinping on trade matters. Also read: Musk ridicules funding viability of Trump's $500 billion AI project Stargate: 'Actually wasn't there' Additionally, the GOP leader has warned BRICS nations also of massive tariff action if they opt for a new currency in order to challenge the supremacy of US dollar. (With inputs from agencies)

Tit for tat? India exploring retaliatory measures as Trump’s tariff threat looms: Report

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<div data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Srinagar: India's&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir is all set to get two big projects inaugurated at the very beginning of 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the key infrastructure Z Morh Tunnel on Monday (Jan 13). Also slated for later this month is the rail connectivity project where Kashmir will be connected to the rest of the country via railways for the first time ever.</div>
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<div>The Z-Morh tunnel will be thrown open to the public on January 13 and with its opening, it will ensure all-year connectivity between Kashmir and Sonamarg. The 6.5-kilometere-long tunnel on the Srinagar-Leh highway in Gagangir area of Ganderbal district has been built at a cost of Rs 24 billion.</div>
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<div>The Z-morh tunnel has been made in an avalanche-prone area that had made the road to Sonamarg inaccessible during snowfall and extreme winters. The tunnel is very important for tourism in the region as Sonamarg used to be cut off during heavy snowfall in the area.</div>
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<div>The tunnel is also of strategic importance to the defence forces and will improve the access between Srinagar to Sonamarg and later to Ladakh when the Zojila tunnel is opened.&nbsp;</div>
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<div>Located at an altitude of over 8,500 feet, this stretch of road is particularly vulnerable to winter weather conditions and this tunnel will help to tackle those challenges.</div>
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<div>The tunnel work was started by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in 2012, with the project being awarded to Tunnelways Limited. However, it was later taken over by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), which re-issued the tender for the project. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-tourism-hits-new-peaks-tourist-arrivals-break-all-previous-records-8605183">Kashmir tourism hits new peak, tourist arrivals break all previous records</a></div>
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<div>The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah in a post on X said Jammu and Kashmir is awaiting the inauguration of the crucial infrastructure project in the coming days. He said the asset would prove to be a gamechanger for the expansion of winter tourism in the valley. "Jammu and Kashmir, particularly central Kashmir, is awaiting the inauguration of a crucial piece of infrastructure in the coming days. The asset will prove to be a game changer for the expansion of winter tourism in the valley," he said.</div>
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<div>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullah-questions-india-alliances-future-dissolve-bloc-if-8604714">Omar Abdullah questions future of INDIA alliance; 'dissolve bloc if..'</a> </div>
<div>The hoteliers of the Sonamarg area are eagerly waiting for the tunnel to open as the winters are here and it will be much easier for the tourists to reach Sonamarg through this tunnel.</div>
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India news, Trending : Z Morh Tunnel: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Inaugrate Z Morh Tunnel in Jammu Kashmir. Know about it. The Z-morh tunnel has been made in an avalanche-prone area

Srinagar: India's Jammu and Kashmir is all set to get two big projects inaugurated at the very beginning of 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the key infrastructure Z Morh Tunnel on Monday (Jan 13). Also slated for later this month is the rail connectivity project where Kashmir will be connected to the rest of the country via railways for the first time ever. The Z-Morh tunnel will be thrown open to the public on January 13 and with its opening, it will ensure all-year connectivity between Kashmir and Sonamarg. The 6.5-kilometere-long tunnel on the Srinagar-Leh highway in Gagangir area of Ganderbal district has been built at a cost of Rs 24 billion. The Z-morh tunnel has been made in an avalanche-prone area that had made the road to Sonamarg inaccessible during snowfall and extreme winters. The tunnel is very important for tourism in the region as Sonamarg used to be cut off during heavy snowfall in the area. The tunnel is also of strategic importance to the defence forces and will improve the access between Srinagar to Sonamarg and later to Ladakh when the Zojila tunnel is opened. Located at an altitude of over 8,500 feet, this stretch of road is particularly vulnerable to winter weather conditions and this tunnel will help to tackle those challenges. The tunnel work was started by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in 2012, with the project being awarded to Tunnelways Limited. However, it was later taken over by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), which re-issued the tender for the project. Also read: Kashmir tourism hits new peak, tourist arrivals break all previous records The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah in a post on X said Jammu and Kashmir is awaiting the inauguration of the crucial infrastructure project in the coming days. He said the asset would prove to be a gamechanger for the expansion of winter tourism in the valley. "Jammu and Kashmir, particularly central Kashmir, is awaiting the inauguration of a crucial piece of infrastructure in the coming days. The asset will prove to be a game changer for the expansion of winter tourism in the valley," he said. Also read: Omar Abdullah questions future of INDIA alliance; 'dissolve bloc if..' The hoteliers of the Sonamarg area are eagerly waiting for the tunnel to open as the winters are here and it will be much easier for the tourists to reach Sonamarg through this tunnel.

Prime Minister Modi to Inaugrate Z Morh Tunnel in Jammu Kashmir. Why is it important?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appeared on a podcast with Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath on Friday (Jan 10). Apart from serious discussions, a light-hearted moment was captured when the PM reacted to the viral "Melodi" memes on the internet featuring him and the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Kamath asked Modi if he had seen those memes and the PM just smiled and said "Wo toh chalta rahta hai" (That just keeps going on).&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/has-the-iconic-hollywood-sign-damaged-due-to-la-wildfire-heres-what-we-know-8608339" aria-label="LA wildfires: Iconic Hollywood sign damaged? Here's what we know so far">LA wildfires: Iconic Hollywood sign damaged? Here's what we know so far</a>
Kamath started the discussion on the meme saying, "My favourite food is pizza. And pizza is from Italy. And people say you know a lot about Italy." &nbsp;He then asked the PM, "Would you like to say something about that?"
Modi added that he does not "waste time" thinking about memes.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5qv7la9-p97c2498-ruls0s3j">
Hi friends, from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Melodi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Melodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/OslCnWlB86">pic.twitter.com/OslCnWlB86</a>
&mdash; Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/1801865796190134583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
The "Melodi" memes, an acronym of Modi+Meloni, had gone viral after Meloni shared a selfie with Modi in Juden 2023 from &nbsp;the G7 summit on the social media platform X. The caption was, &ldquo;Hello from the Melodi team." Modi replied to the post saying, &ldquo;Long live India-Italy friendship!" after which the internet started shipping them together in playful memes.&nbsp;
Also read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-fact-checking-network-calls-out-meta-ceo-zuckerbergs-censorship-claim-as-false-8608243" aria-label="International Fact-Checking Network calls out Meta CEO Zuckerberg's censorship claim as 'false'">International Fact-Checking Network calls out Meta CEO Zuckerberg's censorship claim as 'false'</a>
<h3>Modi - not a foodie&nbsp;</h3>
<iframe width="600" height="400" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yTMYtcQLLaw?start=6400&amp;feature=oembed" title="People with The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi x Nikhil Kamath | Episode 6 | By WTF" class="publive-iframes-block publive-YouTube-block" id="PL_iframe_block-m5qv76tp-nib7b8wj-jondyhml"></iframe>
PM Modi also said that he is not a foodie.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I&rsquo;m not a foodie, whatever is served in any country I eat happily. It is my bad fortune that if you take me to a restaurant, hand me the menu and ask me to choose, I won&rsquo;t be able to do it," he said.&nbsp;
Also read | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-leader-priyanka-chaturvedi-slams-lt-chiefs-work-90-hrs-a-week-remark-8608139" aria-label="Besides being misogynistic...: Indian leader Priyanka Chaturvedi slams L&amp;T chief's 'work 90 hrs a week' remark">Besides being misogynistic...: Indian leader Priyanka Chaturvedi slams L&amp;T chief's 'work 90 hrs a week' remark</a>
He further said that back in the day, he used to take the help of BJP's senior leader Arun Jaitley to order food from restaurants.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know if the dish that is mentioned on the menu and the food in front of me are the same thing, I do not know, I am ignorant because I have not developed that tendency. So I don&rsquo;t understand much about it, so I always used to ask Arun ji to order food for me, it just needed to be vegetarian," the Indian PM said.&nbsp;
Also read |&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polls-aap-vs-bjp-arvind-kejriwal-voter-manipulation-bjps-cm-face-asks-delhi-cm-8608002" aria-label="Delhi polls: AAP vs BJP heats up as Kejriwal alleges voter manipulation; Who is BJP&rsquo;s CM face? asks Atishi">Delhi polls: AAP vs BJP heats up as Kejriwal alleges voter manipulation; Who is BJP&rsquo;s CM face? asks Atishi</a>
(With inputs from agencies)
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Prime Minister Modi's smile during Kamath's question reflects his approachable demeanor, highlighting his awareness and acceptance of the role digital culture plays today.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appeared on a podcast with Zerodha founder Nikhil Kamath on Friday (Jan 10). Apart from serious discussions, a light-hearted moment was captured when the PM reacted to the viral "Melodi" memes on the internet featuring him and the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Kamath asked Modi if he had seen those memes and the PM just smiled and said "Wo toh chalta rahta hai" (That just keeps going on). Also read | LA wildfires: Iconic Hollywood sign damaged? Here's what we know so far Kamath started the discussion on the meme saying, "My favourite food is pizza. And pizza is from Italy. And people say you know a lot about Italy." He then asked the PM, "Would you like to say something about that?" Modi added that he does not "waste time" thinking about memes. Hi friends, from #Melodi pic.twitter.com/OslCnWlB86 — Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) June 15, 2024 The "Melodi" memes, an acronym of Modi+Meloni, had gone viral after Meloni shared a selfie with Modi in Juden 2023 from the G7 summit on the social media platform X. The caption was, “Hello from the Melodi team." Modi replied to the post saying, “Long live India-Italy friendship!" after which the internet started shipping them together in playful memes. Also read | International Fact-Checking Network calls out Meta CEO Zuckerberg's censorship claim as 'false' Modi - not a foodie PM Modi also said that he is not a foodie. “I’m not a foodie, whatever is served in any country I eat happily. It is my bad fortune that if you take me to a restaurant, hand me the menu and ask me to choose, I won’t be able to do it," he said. Also read | Besides being misogynistic...: Indian leader Priyanka Chaturvedi slams L&T chief's 'work 90 hrs a week' remark He further said that back in the day, he used to take the help of BJP's senior leader Arun Jaitley to order food from restaurants. “I don’t know if the dish that is mentioned on the menu and the food in front of me are the same thing, I do not know, I am ignorant because I have not developed that tendency. So I don’t understand much about it, so I always used to ask Arun ji to order food for me, it just needed to be vegetarian," the Indian PM said. Also read | Delhi polls: AAP vs BJP heats up as Kejriwal alleges voter manipulation; Who is BJP’s CM face? asks Atishi (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Narendra Modi reacts to viral 'Melodi' memes of him and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni

After wrapping up his Dil Luminati India Tour in Ludhiana on December 31, actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on January 1, 2025. The duo had a 'memorable meet' where they discussed music, culture, and India's vibrancy, including yoga. Diljit sings for PM Modi During the meeting, PM Modi praised Diljit for his achievements and said, &ldquo;When a boy from a small village in Hindustan shines on the global stage, it feels amazing. Your family named you Diljit, and you keep on winning people's hearts, just as your name suggests.&rdquo;&nbsp; Diljit responded, &ldquo;We used to read that 'Mera Bharat Mahan' (My India is great), but when I travelled across India, I realised why people say this.&rdquo; PM Modi highlighted India's diversity: "India's vastness is its strength. We are a vibrant society."
"The greatest magic in India is yoga." PM Modi agreed, saying, "Those who have experienced yoga know its power," the singer added.&nbsp;
Diljit also praised PM Modi's personal journey and said, "I had watched your interview, sir. The position of Prime Minister is great, but behind it, there is a mother, a son, and a human being. Many times, this half-truth is much larger when you carry your mother and the sacred Ganga with you. That touches the heart."
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/diljit-dosanjhs-ludhiana-concert-lands-in-trouble-over-songs-mentioning-alcohol-8583632">Diljit Dosanjh's Ludhiana concert lands in trouble over songs mentioning alcohol</a>
Diljit then sang a song on Guru Nanak, as PM Modi listened intently, beating the adjacent table, matching his beats with Diljit's.
Diljit Dosanjh took to social media to share photos of their meeting and called it a "fantastic" way to start the year.&nbsp; He posted on X, &ldquo;A fantastic start to 2025. A very memorable meeting with PM @narendramodi Ji. We talked about many things, including music, of course!&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment-news/punjabi-aa-gaye-oye-beaming-with-desi-pride-2024-was-the-year-of-diljit-dosanjh-8579778">&lsquo;Punjabi Aa Gaye Oye': Beaming with Desi Pride, 2024 was year of Diljit Dosanjh</a> PM Modi responded to Dosanjh's post, describing their meeting as "a great interaction." He said, &ldquo;A great interaction with Diljit Dosanjh! He's truly multifaceted, blending talent and tradition. We connected over music, culture, and more.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A great interaction with Diljit Dosanjh! He&rsquo;s truly multifaceted, blending talent and tradition. We connected over music, culture and more&hellip; <a href="https://twitter.com/diljitdosanjh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@diljitdosanjh</a> <a href="https://t.co/X768l08CY1">https://t.co/X768l08CY1</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1874507862497771967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 Diljit Dosanjh's Dil Luminati Tour Diljit performed in various cities of India with his Dil-Luminati tour which had its grand performance in Ludhiana on December 31. &nbsp;Throughout his concerts at various venues, the singer aimed to address important social issues during his performances and gave reference to local artists and poets. The concert also faced controversy over on-ground mismanagement, only ticketing fraud. Several groups called for a ban on songs that mentioned alcohol.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/diljit-dosanjh-pays-warm-tribute-to-dr-manmohan-singh-at-his-guwahati-concert-watch-8578425">Diljit Dosanjh pays tribute to Manmohan Singh at Guwahati concert, watch</a>&nbsp;

Entertainment | Diljit Dosanjh concluded his Dil Luminati India Tour in Ludhiana, marking New Year's Eve with a high-energy performance before meeting PM Modi in Delhi on Jan 1.

After wrapping up his Dil Luminati India Tour in Ludhiana on December 31, actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on January 1, 2025. The duo had a 'memorable meet' where they discussed music, culture, and India's vibrancy, including yoga. Diljit sings for PM Modi During the meeting, PM Modi praised Diljit for his achievements and said, “When a boy from a small village in Hindustan shines on the global stage, it feels amazing. Your family named you Diljit, and you keep on winning people's hearts, just as your name suggests.” Diljit responded, “We used to read that 'Mera Bharat Mahan' (My India is great), but when I travelled across India, I realised why people say this.” PM Modi highlighted India's diversity: "India's vastness is its strength. We are a vibrant society." "The greatest magic in India is yoga." PM Modi agreed, saying, "Those who have experienced yoga know its power," the singer added. Diljit also praised PM Modi's personal journey and said, "I had watched your interview, sir. The position of Prime Minister is great, but behind it, there is a mother, a son, and a human being. Many times, this half-truth is much larger when you carry your mother and the sacred Ganga with you. That touches the heart." Diljit Dosanjh's Ludhiana concert lands in trouble over songs mentioning alcohol Diljit then sang a song on Guru Nanak, as PM Modi listened intently, beating the adjacent table, matching his beats with Diljit's. Diljit Dosanjh took to social media to share photos of their meeting and called it a "fantastic" way to start the year. He posted on X, “A fantastic start to 2025. A very memorable meeting with PM @narendramodi Ji. We talked about many things, including music, of course!” ‘Punjabi Aa Gaye Oye': Beaming with Desi Pride, 2024 was year of Diljit Dosanjh PM Modi responded to Dosanjh's post, describing their meeting as "a great interaction." He said, “A great interaction with Diljit Dosanjh! He's truly multifaceted, blending talent and tradition. We connected over music, culture, and more.” A great interaction with Diljit Dosanjh! He’s truly multifaceted, blending talent and tradition. We connected over music, culture and more… @diljitdosanjh https://t.co/X768l08CY1 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 1, 2025 Diljit Dosanjh's Dil Luminati Tour Diljit performed in various cities of India with his Dil-Luminati tour which had its grand performance in Ludhiana on December 31. Throughout his concerts at various venues, the singer aimed to address important social issues during his performances and gave reference to local artists and poets. The concert also faced controversy over on-ground mismanagement, only ticketing fraud. Several groups called for a ban on songs that mentioned alcohol. Diljit Dosanjh pays tribute to Manmohan Singh at Guwahati concert, watch

Diljit Dosanjh sings as PM Modi beats table during their meet in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the government's first decision in the New Year is dedicated to farmers, as the Union Cabinet headed by him enhanced allocation to the crop insurance scheme and raised subsidy on a key fertiliser.
PM Modi said on X, "(Govt's) first decision of the New Near is dedicated to crores of farmer brothers and sisters of our country. We have approved increasing the allocation for crop insurance scheme. This will provide more security to farmers' crops and will also mitigate their concerns about any damage."&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/atishi-reiterates-allegations-against-delhi-lg-over-temple-demolition-order-says-have-documentary-proof-8583016">Atishi reiterates allegations against Delhi LG over temple demolition order, says have 'documentary proof</a>
The Cabinet's decision on extending the one-time special package on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) will help farmers by ensuring the fertiliser at affordable prices, he added.
The Cabinet approved continuation of the 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana' and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme till 2025-26 with an overall outlay of Rs 69,515.71 crore for 2021-22 to 2025-26. The decision will help in risk coverage of crops from non-preventable natural calamities for farmers across the country till 2025-26, a statement said.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kejriwal-writes-to-rss-questions-whether-it-supports-bjps-action-8582744">Arvind Kejriwal writes to RSS, questions whether it supports BJP's actions and past wrongdoings</a>
It also approved the proposal of the Department of Fertilisers for extension of One-time Special Package on DAP beyond the NBS subsidy at Rs 3,500 per MT for the period starting from Wednesday till further orders to ensure sustainable availability of DAP at affordable prices to the farmers. The tentative budgetary requirement for this would be approximately up to Rs 3,850 crore, the statement said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from PTI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
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India | The Cabinet's decision on extending the one-time special package on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) will help farmers by ensuring the fertiliser at affordable prices

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday that the government's first decision in the New Year is dedicated to farmers, as the Union Cabinet headed by him enhanced allocation to the crop insurance scheme and raised subsidy on a key fertiliser. PM Modi said on X, "(Govt's) first decision of the New Near is dedicated to crores of farmer brothers and sisters of our country. We have approved increasing the allocation for crop insurance scheme. This will provide more security to farmers' crops and will also mitigate their concerns about any damage." Also Read | Atishi reiterates allegations against Delhi LG over temple demolition order, says have 'documentary proof The Cabinet's decision on extending the one-time special package on Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) will help farmers by ensuring the fertiliser at affordable prices, he added. The Cabinet approved continuation of the 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana' and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme till 2025-26 with an overall outlay of Rs 69,515.71 crore for 2021-22 to 2025-26. The decision will help in risk coverage of crops from non-preventable natural calamities for farmers across the country till 2025-26, a statement said. Also Read | Arvind Kejriwal writes to RSS, questions whether it supports BJP's actions and past wrongdoings It also approved the proposal of the Department of Fertilisers for extension of One-time Special Package on DAP beyond the NBS subsidy at Rs 3,500 per MT for the period starting from Wednesday till further orders to ensure sustainable availability of DAP at affordable prices to the farmers. The tentative budgetary requirement for this would be approximately up to Rs 3,850 crore, the statement said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from PTI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi announces increased crop insurance allocation, fertiliser subsidy for farmers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday remembered four icons of Indian cinema Raj Kapoor, Mohammed Rafi, Akkineni Nageswara Rao and Tapan Sinha in their birth centenary year in his last Mann Ki Baat address of 2024.
Speaking in his monthly radio broadcast, the prime minister said: "In 2024, we are celebrating the birth centenary of several film personalities who were instrumental in bringing global recognition to the country... The lives of these personalities is a source of inspiration for our film industry."
"Through his films, Raj Kapoor ji made the world aware of India's soft power," Modi said.
Mohd Rafi's magical voice would touch the heart of every listener, added the prime minister.
"He had an incredible voice. Be it devotional songs, romantic songs or sad songs, he made every emotion come alive with his voice. The fact that the youth of today also listens to his songs with the same passion is a testament to his greatness as an artist. This is the true meaning of timeless art," he said about the singer.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/why-anupam-kher-called-hansal-mehta-hypocrite-entire-verbal-spat-over-the-accidental-prime-minister-explained-8574755" aria-label="Why Anupam Kher called Hansal Mehta hypocrite? Entire verbal spat over The Accidental Prime Minister explained">Why Anupam Kher called Hansal Mehta hypocrite? Entire verbal spat over The Accidental Prime Minister explained</a>
Modi praised ANR for taking Telugu cinema to "newer heights".
"His films beautifully depicted Indian traditions and values."
"Tapan Sinha ji's films gave a new vision to society. His films conveyed the message of social consciousness and national unity," Modi added in the monthly broadcast.
The birth centenaries of Kapoor, the showman of the Hindi film industry, and Rafi, one of the greatest playback singers in Indian cinema who could paint a rainbow of emotions with his voice, were commemorated recently on December 14 and December 24, respectively.
Also read: <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pushpa-2-box-office-collection-allu-arjuns-film-continues-to-dominate-earns-rs-1141-crore-in-india-8575045" aria-label="Pushpa 2 box office: Allu Arjun's film continues to dominate, earns $133 mn in India">Pushpa 2 box office: Allu Arjun's film continues to dominate, earns $133 mn in India</a>
Akkineni Nageswara Rao, better known as ANR, was one of the most prominent figures in the Telugu industry who in his seven-decade career starred in numerous landmark films. His 100th birth anniversary was marked on September 20.
Sinha, one of the most prominent Bengali cinema directors in the 1970s and 1980s, forming a quartet with Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, and Mrinal Sen, would have turned 100 on October 2. This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Raj Kapoor,  the showman of the Hindi film industry, in 2024's last Mann Ki Baat



Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday remembered four icons of Indian cinema Raj Kapoor, Mohammed Rafi, Akkineni Nageswara Rao and Tapan Sinha in their birth centenary year in his last Mann Ki Baat address of 2024. Speaking in his monthly radio broadcast, the prime minister said: "In 2024, we are celebrating the birth centenary of several film personalities who were instrumental in bringing global recognition to the country... The lives of these personalities is a source of inspiration for our film industry." "Through his films, Raj Kapoor ji made the world aware of India's soft power," Modi said. Mohd Rafi's magical voice would touch the heart of every listener, added the prime minister. "He had an incredible voice. Be it devotional songs, romantic songs or sad songs, he made every emotion come alive with his voice. The fact that the youth of today also listens to his songs with the same passion is a testament to his greatness as an artist. This is the true meaning of timeless art," he said about the singer. Also read: Why Anupam Kher called Hansal Mehta hypocrite? Entire verbal spat over The Accidental Prime Minister explained Modi praised ANR for taking Telugu cinema to "newer heights". "His films beautifully depicted Indian traditions and values." "Tapan Sinha ji's films gave a new vision to society. His films conveyed the message of social consciousness and national unity," Modi added in the monthly broadcast. The birth centenaries of Kapoor, the showman of the Hindi film industry, and Rafi, one of the greatest playback singers in Indian cinema who could paint a rainbow of emotions with his voice, were commemorated recently on December 14 and December 24, respectively. Also read: Pushpa 2 box office: Allu Arjun's film continues to dominate, earns $133 mn in India Akkineni Nageswara Rao, better known as ANR, was one of the most prominent figures in the Telugu industry who in his seven-decade career starred in numerous landmark films. His 100th birth anniversary was marked on September 20. Sinha, one of the most prominent Bengali cinema directors in the 1970s and 1980s, forming a quartet with Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, and Mrinal Sen, would have turned 100 on October 2. This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi remembers Raj Kapoor and Mohd Rafi in 2024's last Mann Ki Baat

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 28) met World Chess Championship (WCC) winner D Gukesh after a successful triumph in Singapore earlier in the month. Gukesh, at 18 became the youngest WCC winner breaking the 40-year-old record of Garry Kasparov. After his triumph, he along with his parents met PM Modi at his New Delhi residence as the latter hailed his determination and dedication in the meeting.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m589vyzq-8o2tciu7-0cwmbquk">
Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India&rsquo;s pride, <a href="https://twitter.com/DGukesh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DGukesh</a>! I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/gkLfUXqHQp">pic.twitter.com/gkLfUXqHQp</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1872988146016633258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">PM Modi meets D Gukesh at his residence<o:p></o:p></h2>
&ldquo;Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India&rsquo;s pride, @DGukesh!I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video of his few years ago where he had said he would become the youngest world champion&mdash; a prediction that has now clearly come true thanks to his own efforts,&rdquo; a statement on PM Modi&rsquo;s X handle read. <o:p></o:p>
Gukesh in a marathon 14-game WCC final, got the better of China&rsquo;s Ding Liren as he beat him 7.5-6.5 to pocket his maiden title. He was seen emotional after the close contest with a video of him going viral. A blunder on the 55th move of game 14 paved the way for Gukesh to win the title despite the match heading for a draw until the 40th move.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-scott-boland-backs-tough-guy-mitchell-starc-for-mcg-cracker-despite-injury-scare-8573327" aria-label="BGT &ndash; Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare">BGT &ndash; Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Gukesh joins Viswanathan Anand<o:p></o:p></h2>
While Gukesh became the youngest champion in WCC history at 18, he also ended India&rsquo;s drought at the prestigious tournament. The teenage grandmaster joined legendary Viswanathan Anand to win the title. Anand won the WCC in 2000 and wrote his name in the history books until Gukesh joined him. <o:p></o:p>
The meeting was also joined by Gukesh&rsquo;s parents - father and ENT surgeon Dr Rajinikanth, and mother and microbiologist Padmavathi with the trio posing with PM Modi at his residence. He had earlier met, South Indian film superstar Rajinikanth.<o:p></o:p>

Sports: D Gukesh in a marathon 14-game World Chess Championship final, got the better of China’s Ding Liren as he beat him 7.5-6.5 to pocket his maiden title. 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Dec 28) met World Chess Championship (WCC) winner D Gukesh after a successful triumph in Singapore earlier in the month. Gukesh, at 18 became the youngest WCC winner breaking the 40-year-old record of Garry Kasparov. After his triumph, he along with his parents met PM Modi at his New Delhi residence as the latter hailed his determination and dedication in the meeting. Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, @DGukesh! I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video… pic.twitter.com/gkLfUXqHQp — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 28, 2024 PM Modi meets D Gukesh at his residence “Had an excellent interaction with chess champion and India’s pride, @DGukesh!I have been closely interacting with him for a few years now, and what strikes me most about him is his determination and dedication. His confidence is truly inspiring. In fact, I recall seeing a video of his few years ago where he had said he would become the youngest world champion— a prediction that has now clearly come true thanks to his own efforts,” a statement on PM Modi’s X handle read. Gukesh in a marathon 14-game WCC final, got the better of China’s Ding Liren as he beat him 7.5-6.5 to pocket his maiden title. He was seen emotional after the close contest with a video of him going viral. A blunder on the 55th move of game 14 paved the way for Gukesh to win the title despite the match heading for a draw until the 40th move. ALSO READ | BGT – Boland backs 'tough guy' Starc for MCG cracker despite injury scare Gukesh joins Viswanathan Anand While Gukesh became the youngest champion in WCC history at 18, he also ended India’s drought at the prestigious tournament. The teenage grandmaster joined legendary Viswanathan Anand to win the title. Anand won the WCC in 2000 and wrote his name in the history books until Gukesh joined him. The meeting was also joined by Gukesh’s parents - father and ENT surgeon Dr Rajinikanth, and mother and microbiologist Padmavathi with the trio posing with PM Modi at his residence. He had earlier met, South Indian film superstar Rajinikanth.

PM Narendra Modi meets D Gukesh after World Chess Championship triumph

Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh died&nbsp;at the age of 92 on Thursday (Dec 26). Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence as he took to the social media platform X and said the nation&nbsp;mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders. Modi said Singh rose&nbsp;from humble origins and became a respected economist.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/clW00Yv6oP">pic.twitter.com/clW00Yv6oP</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1872328464658808947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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Modi further added, "He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people&rsquo;s lives."
<h3>Jagdeep Dhankhar</h3>
Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also mourned the death of the "distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape".&nbsp;
On his X account, Dhankar wrote, "As the Vice-President of India, I had the privilege to engage in meaningful, insightful interactions with Dr. Singh at his residence. His profound understanding of the economy, gentle demeanour and unwavering commitment to India's progress will forever be etched in my memory.".
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Deeply pained to learn about the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, former Prime Minister and a distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape. A Padma Vibhushan awardee and architect of India's economic liberalisation in 1991, he boldly steered our nation&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/28A6pKYjvK">pic.twitter.com/28A6pKYjvK</a>&mdash; Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPIndia/status/1872329137131577582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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&nbsp;
<h3>Mallikarjun Kharge</h3>
Congress president and Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, said in a post on X, "Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji!"
Kharge said&nbsp;with the passing of Singh, the country has lost "a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature".&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji! With the passing of the Former Prime Minister, India has lost a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature. His policy of Economic Liberalisation and&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/BvMZh3MFXS">pic.twitter.com/BvMZh3MFXS</a>&mdash; Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1872329714523877625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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He further wrote, "I mourn the loss of a lifelong senior colleague, a gentle intellectual and a humble soul who embodied the aspirations of India, having risen through the ranks with unwavering dedication." 
<h3>Amit Shah </h3>
India's Home Minister Amit Shah wrote, "From being the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India to the Finance Minister of the country and as the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh played an important role in the governance of the country."&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी के निधन की सूचना अत्यंत दुःखद है। भारतीय रिजर्व बैंक में गवर्नर से लेकर देश के वित्त मंत्री और प्रधानमंत्री के रूप में डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी ने देश की शासन व्यवस्था में महत्त्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई। दुःख की इस घड़ी में उनके परिजनों व समर्थकों के&hellip;
&mdash; Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1872330890002473021?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<h3>Droupadi Murmu</h3>
President Droupadi Murmu paid&nbsp;homage to Singh and wrote, "Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease. In his various roles in public offices, he made critical contributions to reforming Indian economy. He will always be&hellip;
&mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1872335549497032850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<h3>Rahul Gandhi </h3>
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi took to X and wrote, "Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation." 
He further expressed his condolences to Singh's family and wife. 
In his X post, Gandhi further wrote, "I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride." 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/bYT5o1ZN2R">pic.twitter.com/bYT5o1ZN2R</a>
&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1872334963229540738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh died at the age of 91 on Thursday (Dec 26). Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences. 

Former Indian prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh died at the age of 92 on Thursday (Dec 26). Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence as he took to the social media platform X and said the nation mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders. Modi said Singh rose from humble origins and became a respected economist. India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic… pic.twitter.com/clW00Yv6oP— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2024 Modi further added, "He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives." Jagdeep Dhankhar Indian Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also mourned the death of the "distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape". On his X account, Dhankar wrote, "As the Vice-President of India, I had the privilege to engage in meaningful, insightful interactions with Dr. Singh at his residence. His profound understanding of the economy, gentle demeanour and unwavering commitment to India's progress will forever be etched in my memory.". Deeply pained to learn about the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, former Prime Minister and a distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape. A Padma Vibhushan awardee and architect of India's economic liberalisation in 1991, he boldly steered our nation… pic.twitter.com/28A6pKYjvK— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) December 26, 2024 Mallikarjun Kharge Congress president and Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, said in a post on X, "Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji!" Kharge said with the passing of Singh, the country has lost "a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature". Undoubtedly, history shall judge you kindly, Dr. Manmohan Singh ji! With the passing of the Former Prime Minister, India has lost a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature. His policy of Economic Liberalisation and… pic.twitter.com/BvMZh3MFXS— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) December 26, 2024 He further wrote, "I mourn the loss of a lifelong senior colleague, a gentle intellectual and a humble soul who embodied the aspirations of India, having risen through the ranks with unwavering dedication." Amit Shah India's Home Minister Amit Shah wrote, "From being the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India to the Finance Minister of the country and as the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh played an important role in the governance of the country." पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी के निधन की सूचना अत्यंत दुःखद है। भारतीय रिजर्व बैंक में गवर्नर से लेकर देश के वित्त मंत्री और प्रधानमंत्री के रूप में डॉ. मनमोहन सिंह जी ने देश की शासन व्यवस्था में महत्त्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाई। दुःख की इस घड़ी में उनके परिजनों व समर्थकों के… — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 26, 2024 Droupadi Murmu President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to Singh and wrote, "Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease." Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease. In his various roles in public offices, he made critical contributions to reforming Indian economy. He will always be… — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) December 26, 2024 Rahul Gandhi Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi took to X and wrote, "Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation." He further expressed his condolences to Singh's family and wife. In his X post, Gandhi further wrote, "I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride." Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the… pic.twitter.com/bYT5o1ZN2R — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 26, 2024 (With inputs from agencies)

One of most distinguished leaders: PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi condole Manmohan Singh's demise

Legendary writer MT Vasudevan Nair, who was considered the doyen of Malayalam language literature, has died at the age of 91. Nair, who belonged to the south indian state of Kerala, died in a hospital in the state's Kozhikode district, where he was admitted a few days ago with breathing difficulties.
Apart from being a celebrated writer, Nair was also an acclaimed film director and screenwriter. He was popularly known at MT.&nbsp;
<h2>PM Modi pays tribute to MT Vasudevan Nair</h2>
Indian Prime Minister PM Modi led many others in paying rich tribute to the celebrated writer.&nbsp; PM Modi took to X and wrote, "Saddened by the passing away of Shri MT Vasudevan Nair Ji, one of the most respected figures in Malayalam cinema and literature. His works, with their profound exploration of human emotions, have shaped generations and will continue to inspire many more. He also gave voice to the silent and marginalised. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti." <be> </be>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Saddened by the passing away of Shri MT Vasudevan Nair Ji, one of the most respected figures in Malayalam cinema and literature. His works, with their profound exploration of human emotions, have shaped generations and will continue to inspire many more. He also gave voice to the&hellip;
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1872134149479268417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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 Congress leader Shashi Tharoor wrote, "Sadly, it was not to be. The tragic news has sunk Kerala in mourning. A legend has passed into history, leaving behind an immortal legacy in the worlds of fiction and commentary, film &amp; screenplay. #MTVasudevanNair, gone at 91." 
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Sadly, it was not to be. The tragic news has sunk Kerala in mourning. A legend has passed into history, leaving behind an immortal legacy in the worlds of fiction and commentary, film &amp; screenplay. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MTVasudevanNair?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MTVasudevanNair</a>, gone at 91. ॐ शांति। <a href="https://t.co/6n7pb1qQwW">https://t.co/6n7pb1qQwW</a>
&mdash; Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShashiTharoor/status/1871979174824640711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
MT Vasudevan Nair or just MT is one of the literary giants of Kerala. He is a renowned writer, editor and cultural symbol of North Kerala (Malabar). As a child, I grew up reading his novels and stories, many of which have been made as films. End of an era of cultural excellence.. <a href="https://t.co/AqbZdEwIhY">pic.twitter.com/AqbZdEwIhY</a>
&mdash; PS Vijayshankar (വിജയശങ്കർ) (@PsVijayshankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/PsVijayshankar/status/1872196080315814281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>

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<h2>About MT Vasudevan Nair</h2>
 Born in 1933 in Kerala's Palakkad district, Nair was a voracious reader and began writing at a young age and even had his work published in magazines.&nbsp; "Unlike other boys of my age I was not very interested in playing. There was only one game I could play alone - writing," he once told Outlook magazine. Nair studied chemistry and taught math to school students. He later joined the renowned Mathrubhumi weekly magazine and soon made a name for himself as a writer and editor. He has several novels and collections of short stories, newspaper columns, memoirs and travelogues to his credit. Many of his works have been translated into various other Indian languages.&nbsp; Nair's novel "Naalukettu" (Four Blocks), about the decline of a joint family, won one of Kerala's highest literary honours in 1959.&nbsp; Many years later, he adapted the book into a television film for the government-run Doordarshan channel, winning a state award. His novel "Randamoozham" (The Second Turn), a retelling of the Hindu epic "Mahabharata" from the point of view of the Bhima, is considered a classic of Indian literature. He was honoured with India's highest literary honour, the Jnanpith Award, in 1995.&nbsp;
Besides his literary work, Nair had a prolific career as a screenwriter and director in Malayalam cinema, winning several national and state awards.

Celebrated writer MT Vasudevan Nair, a towering figure in Malayalam literature, dies at , remembered for his impactful narratives and literary contributions.

Legendary writer MT Vasudevan Nair, who was considered the doyen of Malayalam language literature, has died at the age of 91. Nair, who belonged to the south indian state of Kerala, died in a hospital in the state's Kozhikode district, where he was admitted a few days ago with breathing difficulties. Apart from being a celebrated writer, Nair was also an acclaimed film director and screenwriter. He was popularly known at MT. PM Modi pays tribute to MT Vasudevan Nair Indian Prime Minister PM Modi led many others in paying rich tribute to the celebrated writer. PM Modi took to X and wrote, "Saddened by the passing away of Shri MT Vasudevan Nair Ji, one of the most respected figures in Malayalam cinema and literature. His works, with their profound exploration of human emotions, have shaped generations and will continue to inspire many more. He also gave voice to the silent and marginalised. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. Om Shanti." Saddened by the passing away of Shri MT Vasudevan Nair Ji, one of the most respected figures in Malayalam cinema and literature. His works, with their profound exploration of human emotions, have shaped generations and will continue to inspire many more. He also gave voice to the… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2024 Congress leader Shashi Tharoor wrote, "Sadly, it was not to be. The tragic news has sunk Kerala in mourning. A legend has passed into history, leaving behind an immortal legacy in the worlds of fiction and commentary, film & screenplay. #MTVasudevanNair, gone at 91." Sadly, it was not to be. The tragic news has sunk Kerala in mourning. A legend has passed into history, leaving behind an immortal legacy in the worlds of fiction and commentary, film & screenplay. #MTVasudevanNair, gone at 91. ॐ शांति। https://t.co/6n7pb1qQwW — Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 25, 2024 MT Vasudevan Nair or just MT is one of the literary giants of Kerala. He is a renowned writer, editor and cultural symbol of North Kerala (Malabar). As a child, I grew up reading his novels and stories, many of which have been made as films. End of an era of cultural excellence.. pic.twitter.com/AqbZdEwIhY — PS Vijayshankar (വിജയശങ്കർ) (@PsVijayshankar) December 26, 2024 About MT Vasudevan Nair Born in 1933 in Kerala's Palakkad district, Nair was a voracious reader and began writing at a young age and even had his work published in magazines. "Unlike other boys of my age I was not very interested in playing. There was only one game I could play alone - writing," he once told Outlook magazine. Nair studied chemistry and taught math to school students. He later joined the renowned Mathrubhumi weekly magazine and soon made a name for himself as a writer and editor. He has several novels and collections of short stories, newspaper columns, memoirs and travelogues to his credit. Many of his works have been translated into various other Indian languages. Nair's novel "Naalukettu" (Four Blocks), about the decline of a joint family, won one of Kerala's highest literary honours in 1959. Many years later, he adapted the book into a television film for the government-run Doordarshan channel, winning a state award. His novel "Randamoozham" (The Second Turn), a retelling of the Hindu epic "Mahabharata" from the point of view of the Bhima, is considered a classic of Indian literature. He was honoured with India's highest literary honour, the Jnanpith Award, in 1995. Besides his literary work, Nair had a prolific career as a screenwriter and director in Malayalam cinema, winning several national and state awards.

Iconic writer MT Vasudevan Nair passes away at 91, PM Modi and others pay tribute

New Delhi, India
Narendra Modi appeared politically invincible since he became India’s prime minister a decade ago. With a drained opposition and dispirited media, Modi managed to form a cult of personality around him, which gave him the confidence to declare before the 2024 elections that “God has sent me” and that “this energy (inside me) could not be from my biological body”. 
For him and his followers, the summer elections seemed a mere formality and results a foregone conclusion: Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed it was on its way to winning a supermajority in Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament. BJP had its eyes set on the 370-mark in the 545-member strong legislature, a target that observers labelled ambitious but doable.
<h2>Voters show Modi the mirror</h2>
On 4th June 2024, as the results started pouring in, Modi and his BJP realised they may have become victims of their overconfidence. The '370 this time' slogan backfired as voters denied even a simple majority to the ruling party. 
The BJP stumbled to just 240 seats, 63 less than what it got five years back. 
Modi now relies on his allies to keep his government up and running. It’s the first time that he has had to face a stronger opposition in the house and also a Leader of Opposition (LOP), in the form of Rahul Gandhi, from India’s main opposition Congress party. Indian voters truly cut Modi down to size as BJP had made him the face of their election campaign.
<h2>Supreme Court ruling setbacks</h2>
But prior to Indian voters, it was India’s Supreme Court that set the stage in February with its landmark ruling on electoral bonds. The apex court ruled as unconstitutional the scheme that the BJP had hailed as a successful tool to curb the use of cash in Indian politics.
In 2018, the BJP brought in the electoral bonds initiative that enabled individuals and companies to donate to political parties anonymously. 
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjzwabMiMCKAxWRb_UHHXi0IxAQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-are-electoral-bonds-why-supreme-court-strikes-down-electoral-bonds-scheme-690460" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-are-electoral-bonds-why-supreme-court-strikes-down-electoral-bonds-scheme-690460&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjzwabMiMCKAxWRb_UHHXi0IxAQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE">Explained: India Supreme Court strikes down electoral bonds. Why are they controversial?</a>
But a bench led by then-Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Chandrachud said the scheme violated the Indian Constitution. 
The scheme did not do much to stop political corruption, it noted. It also discouraged donors from supporting opposition parties because they feared the government might access their details through the state-owned SBI bank. 
The Supreme Court later ruled that this lack of transparency violated citizens’ right to information.
<h2>Economy: A reality different from headlines</h2>
India’s economic slowdown over the last months also threatened Modi’s hitherto unassailable stature in Indian politics.
Since the end of September 2024, global investors have withdrawn about $10 billion from the Indian stock market. 
This marks the biggest outflow of funds in a single quarter since the middle of 2022. 
Money is also flowing out of Indian bonds at a faster rate.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/theyll-soon-regret-it-modi-defends-electoral-bond-scheme-rejects-opposition-allegations-of-ed-misuse-706423">Also read: They'll 'soon regret it': Modi defends electoral bond scheme, rejects opposition allegations of ED misuse</a>
Adding to the troubles, the Indian rupee dropped to record-low levels against the US dollar several times in recent months.
India’s quarterly economic growth rate has slowed to 5.4 per cent, the lowest since 2022. 
This has led many economists to lower their growth predictions for the country. 
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the central bank, now expects the economy to grow by 6.6 per cent in the current fiscal year. This is a drop from its earlier forecast of 7.2 per cent. 
On top of this, the RBI has warned about a significant rise in inflation, which could cause further problems.
<h2>All is not lost for Modi yet</h2>
Despite electoral setbacks that led him to rely on potentially flaky allies, it has not been all bad for Modi in 2024.
The year had some pleasant surprises for the Indian prime minister as well. 
Watch: India: No system is perfect says Indian PM Modi on electoral bonds scheme
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Poll results in Haryana and Maharashtra, two of India’s richest states, somehow helped BJP get back the momentum. 
As we step into 2025, elections in Delhi and Bihar look high on Modi’s agenda. 
It remains to be seen whether Modi repeats a 2024-like rocky start or manages to rebound.
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

As we step into 2025, elections in Delhi and Bihar look high on Narendra Modi’s agenda. It remains to be seen whether the Indian PM repeats a 2024-like rocky start or manages to rebound.



New Delhi, India Narendra Modi appeared politically invincible since he became India’s prime minister a decade ago. With a drained opposition and dispirited media, Modi managed to form a cult of personality around him, which gave him the confidence to declare before the 2024 elections that “God has sent me” and that “this energy (inside me) could not be from my biological body”. For him and his followers, the summer elections seemed a mere formality and results a foregone conclusion: Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claimed it was on its way to winning a supermajority in Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament. BJP had its eyes set on the 370-mark in the 545-member strong legislature, a target that observers labelled ambitious but doable. Voters show Modi the mirror On 4th June 2024, as the results started pouring in, Modi and his BJP realised they may have become victims of their overconfidence. The '370 this time' slogan backfired as voters denied even a simple majority to the ruling party. The BJP stumbled to just 240 seats, 63 less than what it got five years back. Modi now relies on his allies to keep his government up and running. It’s the first time that he has had to face a stronger opposition in the house and also a Leader of Opposition (LOP), in the form of Rahul Gandhi, from India’s main opposition Congress party. Indian voters truly cut Modi down to size as BJP had made him the face of their election campaign. Supreme Court ruling setbacks But prior to Indian voters, it was India’s Supreme Court that set the stage in February with its landmark ruling on electoral bonds. The apex court ruled as unconstitutional the scheme that the BJP had hailed as a successful tool to curb the use of cash in Indian politics. In 2018, the BJP brought in the electoral bonds initiative that enabled individuals and companies to donate to political parties anonymously. Also read: Explained: India Supreme Court strikes down electoral bonds. Why are they controversial? But a bench led by then-Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Chandrachud said the scheme violated the Indian Constitution. The scheme did not do much to stop political corruption, it noted. It also discouraged donors from supporting opposition parties because they feared the government might access their details through the state-owned SBI bank. The Supreme Court later ruled that this lack of transparency violated citizens’ right to information. Economy: A reality different from headlines India’s economic slowdown over the last months also threatened Modi’s hitherto unassailable stature in Indian politics. Since the end of September 2024, global investors have withdrawn about $10 billion from the Indian stock market. This marks the biggest outflow of funds in a single quarter since the middle of 2022. Money is also flowing out of Indian bonds at a faster rate. Also read: They'll 'soon regret it': Modi defends electoral bond scheme, rejects opposition allegations of ED misuse Adding to the troubles, the Indian rupee dropped to record-low levels against the US dollar several times in recent months. India’s quarterly economic growth rate has slowed to 5.4 per cent, the lowest since 2022. This has led many economists to lower their growth predictions for the country. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the central bank, now expects the economy to grow by 6.6 per cent in the current fiscal year. This is a drop from its earlier forecast of 7.2 per cent. On top of this, the RBI has warned about a significant rise in inflation, which could cause further problems. All is not lost for Modi yet Despite electoral setbacks that led him to rely on potentially flaky allies, it has not been all bad for Modi in 2024. The year had some pleasant surprises for the Indian prime minister as well. Watch: India: No system is perfect says Indian PM Modi on electoral bonds scheme × Poll results in Haryana and Maharashtra, two of India’s richest states, somehow helped BJP get back the momentum. As we step into 2025, elections in Delhi and Bihar look high on Modi’s agenda. It remains to be seen whether Modi repeats a 2024-like rocky start or manages to rebound. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

How 2024 gave a reality check to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

New Delhi, India
For India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the year 2024 was marked by topsy-turvy political developments.
The year started on a high note with the grand opening of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya in a star-studded, high-on-emotions consecration ceremony led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 
Building the temple at Ramjanmabhoomi in Ayodhya had been the BJP’s most prominent promise to its Hindu votebank for decades, and it became true in 2024.
There was euphoria among the masses, and most BJP leaders were sure that it would carry through till the elections a few months ahead.
But that was not to be. 
What some sceptics within the BJP had said in hushed tones—that the ceremony was held a bit too early and should have been timed closer to the polls—turned out to be true.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-accuses-us-deep-state-elements-for-targeting-pm-modi-says-washington-trying-to-destabilise-india-782118">BJP accuses US 'deep state' elements for targeting PM Modi, says Washington trying to 'destabilise India'</a>

Among other things, the Congress party’s election promise of depositing Rs 8,500 in the bank accounts of women each month turned the tide considerably.
Eventually, the Congress-led INDIA alliance won in some crucial states, the most notable being Uttar Pradesh (UP), the state most crucial electorally, as it elects 80 MPs in the 543-member Lok Sabha.
<h2>Overconfidence cost Yogi dearly; the BJP fell short of majority</h2>
It is said that “The way to Delhi goes through UP.” The saying draws proof from the fact that eight former prime ministers have represented Uttar Pradesh. After two huge consecutive victories in 2014 and 2019 general elections and two back-to-back wins in 2017 and 2022 UP assembly polls, the BJP got overconfident, riding on the hope of Ayodhya temple grand opening having a massive influence on voting.
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was BJP’s ‘star campaigner’ and went around the country, possibly unaware that his party was losing ground in his very own backyard.
In 2014, BJP had won 71 Lok Sabha seats in UP and got 62 in 2019, as the state played a crucial role in getting it a majority on its own both times.
In 2024, the Samajwadi Party led the UP tally with 37, while the BJP won just 33 out of the 80 seats.
As a result, the party fell short of winning a majority on its own, and PM Narendra Modi had to depend on the NDA allies to be back in power again after all the hype of the slogan of winning 400+ seats.
<h2>Maharashtra mauling took majority mark further away</h2>
Similarly, in Maharashtra, the BJP won just nine seats while the main opposition party, the Congress won 13. 
BJP’s alliance partners too didn’t fare well: Shiv Sena won seven seats, and the NCP just one.
In 2019, BJP had won 25 seats, and along with the then undivided Shiv Sena’s 18 seats, the NDA had bagged 41 out of the total 48 seats, and quite a difference it proved to be. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-devendra-fadnavis-5-key-insights-into-the-bjp-leaders-political-journey-781484">Who is Devendra Fadnavis? 5 key insights into the BJP leader's political journey</a>
So overall, for the first time since 2014, the BJP failed to get a majority on its own, winning just 240 seats, 63 less than 303 in 2019, and 32 less than a clear majority.
In fact, adding the seats BJP lost in UP and Maharashtra would have again resulted in a clear majority for it on its own.
BJP also lost seven seats in West Bengal as its tally came down from 19 in 2019 to 12 in 2024.
Fortunately, the NDA won 294 seats, more than the 272 seats required for a simple majority.
The INDIA alliance, led by the Congress party, won 232 seats.
<h2>BJP breached its final frontier, Kerala</h2>
The BJP had been struggling to make a mark in Kerala, for long a bastion of the Left, but that changed in 2024 when the party’s Suresh Gopi won the Thrissur constituency by a margin of 74,686 votes and became the party’s first Lok Sabha parliamentarian from Kerala.
In total, the results were a setback for Modi, who had always secured majorities in elections as chief minister of Gujarat and prime minister till now.
<h2>Undaunted Modi declares victory</h2>
Undaunted by the highly unexpected dip in the number of seats, PM Narendra Modi declared victory for his alliance, claiming it was a mandate to move forward with his agenda and pledged to keep his election promise of turning India’s economy into the world’s third biggest.
Modi, however, did succeed in matching one record, becoming only the second PM after Jawaharlal Nehru to retain power for the third time, but now has to depend on the support of TDP, JD(U), Shiv Sena, and NCP.
<h2>Overconfidence and overexposure</h2>
Most analysts blamed the overconfidence of BJP leadership and the ‘Abki baar 400 paar’ (which translates to: This time more than 400 seats) slogan, saying it bred smugness in the party leaders and workers and resulted in the jolt.
Another factor was the overexposure of PM Modi. In branding and marketing, overexposure is defined as an excessive amount of media coverage, resulting in the audience losing interest in the message.
The number of interviews PM Modi gave to media channels during the campaign and polling was a bit too much. 
Almost no news channel was left out: one would switch on the TV and Modi would be there giving an interview, whichever was the channel.
<h2>BJP wrests Odisha from BJD, unseats Naveen Patnaik</h2>
In the simultaneous assembly elections, the BJP won Odisha spectacularly, deposing the three-time CM Naveen Patnaik.
In alliance with TDP, the BJP also won Telangana assembly elections, while Congress won Andhra Pradesh.
<h2>Hat-trick in Haryana</h2>
Once the dust settled on general elections in the summer, it was time for BJP to prove its mettle in some state assembly elections.
In Haryana, BJP got the first relief from the drubbing it faced in general elections.
Also watch | BJP does the impossible, clinches Haryana hattrick
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The party secured a historic third term in the northern state, winning 48 seats and preventing a Congress comeback.
BJP stormed back to power with a clear majority in the 90-member assembly, while the Congress got 37, though their vote share was almost equal at 39.94 per cent and 39.09 per cent respectively.
BJP and Congress almost captured four-fifths of the entire vote base, making the poll a bipolar affair. The Aam Aadmi Party proved dud and drew a blank despite campaigning aggressively.
<h2>Jammu and Kashmir gets an elected govt after Article 370 revocation</h2>
Elections were held in Jammu and Kashmir for the first time after the removal of Articles 370 and 35(A) and witnessed a high turnout.
The results in Jammu and Kashmir were on expected lines, where the BJP did well in the Jammu region. The National Conference won 42 out of the 90 seats, while BJP bagged 29. All other parties, including Congress and PDP, were in single digits.
But as a consolation, BJP had the largest vote share of 25.64 per cent, more than National Conference’s 23.43 per cent despite the big difference in their seats.
<h2>Stunning comeback in Maharashtra</h2>
The Maharashtra assembly elections later in the year saw the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secure a sweeping victory by winning 235 seats. 
The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena at 57 and NCP at 41 seats.
It was a huge turnaround from the parliamentary elections five months ago. 
In the western state, Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackeray had already lost his claim of being the inheritor of Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy after aligning with Congress and the NCP to grab power earlier. 
As for the NCP, the people of Maharashtra chose to side with Ajit Pawar than Sharad Pawar in the family clash over the party reigns.
BJP’s choice of alliance and strategy in Maharashtra worked out to perfection.
As part of the Mahayuti, BJP had contested 148 seats, Shiv Sena 83 and Ajit Pawar's NCP 59 seats.
There doesn’t seem to be even a remote chance of this alliance breaking up anytime soon, since both Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar know that the alliance with the BJP has helped them cement their places in the hearts of Maharashtra voters as the leaders of their parties.
In Jharkhand, the BJP put up a good fight and won 21 out of the 81 seats, far short of the majority mark, but came second behind the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) tally of 34. 
Surprisingly, and in sharp contrast to the results, BJP had got 33.18 per cent of the total polled votes, almost 10 per cent more than JMM, which polled 23.44 per cent. 
This was a consolation for the BJP leadership and kept alive its hope of winning power in next election, perhaps.
<h2>Modi govt sailing smoothly</h2>
The year 2024 saw a return to coalition government at the centre. Even though India has witnessed chaotic coalition governments since the 1990s, Modi 3.0 has so far not seen any hiccups and is sailing unhindered.
One reason may be that the allies have been themselves facing an existential threat. While JD (U) is bothered by RJD in Bihar, TDP was also looking for a revival in Telangana. Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar have to fortify their own bases and their claims to legacy, so it is in the interest of all to be solidly behind the BJP.
<h2>2024: A mixed bag for the saffron party</h2>
In most of the elections in 2024, the BJP either won or bagged the highest vote share. 
The trend proves that BJP is still the preferred choice of most voters and the Lok Sabha poll verdict was just a blip in its trajectory.
As for the year ahead, a lot will depend on how effectively PM Modi is able to steer the economic growth in difficult times as wars continue, threaten to escalate, and an unpredictable administration of Donald Trump takes over the reigns in the US in the new year.
Will 2025 indeed be a happy new year for the BJP?
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The Lok Sabha poll results were a setback for Modi, who had always secured majorities in elections as chief minister of Gujarat and prime minister till now. The year 2024 saw a return to coalition government at the centre. Even though India has witnessed chaotic coalition governments since the 1990s, Modi 3.0 has so far not seen any hiccups and is sailing smoothly.



New Delhi, India For India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the year 2024 was marked by topsy-turvy political developments. The year started on a high note with the grand opening of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya in a star-studded, high-on-emotions consecration ceremony led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Building the temple at Ramjanmabhoomi in Ayodhya had been the BJP’s most prominent promise to its Hindu votebank for decades, and it became true in 2024. There was euphoria among the masses, and most BJP leaders were sure that it would carry through till the elections a few months ahead. But that was not to be. What some sceptics within the BJP had said in hushed tones—that the ceremony was held a bit too early and should have been timed closer to the polls—turned out to be true. Also read | BJP accuses US 'deep state' elements for targeting PM Modi, says Washington trying to 'destabilise India' Among other things, the Congress party’s election promise of depositing Rs 8,500 in the bank accounts of women each month turned the tide considerably. Eventually, the Congress-led INDIA alliance won in some crucial states, the most notable being Uttar Pradesh (UP), the state most crucial electorally, as it elects 80 MPs in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Overconfidence cost Yogi dearly; the BJP fell short of majority It is said that “The way to Delhi goes through UP.” The saying draws proof from the fact that eight former prime ministers have represented Uttar Pradesh. After two huge consecutive victories in 2014 and 2019 general elections and two back-to-back wins in 2017 and 2022 UP assembly polls, the BJP got overconfident, riding on the hope of Ayodhya temple grand opening having a massive influence on voting. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was BJP’s ‘star campaigner’ and went around the country, possibly unaware that his party was losing ground in his very own backyard. In 2014, BJP had won 71 Lok Sabha seats in UP and got 62 in 2019, as the state played a crucial role in getting it a majority on its own both times. In 2024, the Samajwadi Party led the UP tally with 37, while the BJP won just 33 out of the 80 seats. As a result, the party fell short of winning a majority on its own, and PM Narendra Modi had to depend on the NDA allies to be back in power again after all the hype of the slogan of winning 400+ seats. Maharashtra mauling took majority mark further away Similarly, in Maharashtra, the BJP won just nine seats while the main opposition party, the Congress won 13. BJP’s alliance partners too didn’t fare well: Shiv Sena won seven seats, and the NCP just one. In 2019, BJP had won 25 seats, and along with the then undivided Shiv Sena’s 18 seats, the NDA had bagged 41 out of the total 48 seats, and quite a difference it proved to be. Also read | Who is Devendra Fadnavis? 5 key insights into the BJP leader's political journey So overall, for the first time since 2014, the BJP failed to get a majority on its own, winning just 240 seats, 63 less than 303 in 2019, and 32 less than a clear majority. In fact, adding the seats BJP lost in UP and Maharashtra would have again resulted in a clear majority for it on its own. BJP also lost seven seats in West Bengal as its tally came down from 19 in 2019 to 12 in 2024. Fortunately, the NDA won 294 seats, more than the 272 seats required for a simple majority. The INDIA alliance, led by the Congress party, won 232 seats. BJP breached its final frontier, Kerala The BJP had been struggling to make a mark in Kerala, for long a bastion of the Left, but that changed in 2024 when the party’s Suresh Gopi won the Thrissur constituency by a margin of 74,686 votes and became the party’s first Lok Sabha parliamentarian from Kerala. In total, the results were a setback for Modi, who had always secured majorities in elections as chief minister of Gujarat and prime minister till now. Undaunted Modi declares victory Undaunted by the highly unexpected dip in the number of seats, PM Narendra Modi declared victory for his alliance, claiming it was a mandate to move forward with his agenda and pledged to keep his election promise of turning India’s economy into the world’s third biggest. Modi, however, did succeed in matching one record, becoming only the second PM after Jawaharlal Nehru to retain power for the third time, but now has to depend on the support of TDP, JD(U), Shiv Sena, and NCP. Overconfidence and overexposure Most analysts blamed the overconfidence of BJP leadership and the ‘Abki baar 400 paar’ (which translates to: This time more than 400 seats) slogan, saying it bred smugness in the party leaders and workers and resulted in the jolt. Another factor was the overexposure of PM Modi. In branding and marketing, overexposure is defined as an excessive amount of media coverage, resulting in the audience losing interest in the message. The number of interviews PM Modi gave to media channels during the campaign and polling was a bit too much. Almost no news channel was left out: one would switch on the TV and Modi would be there giving an interview, whichever was the channel. BJP wrests Odisha from BJD, unseats Naveen Patnaik In the simultaneous assembly elections, the BJP won Odisha spectacularly, deposing the three-time CM Naveen Patnaik. In alliance with TDP, the BJP also won Telangana assembly elections, while Congress won Andhra Pradesh. Hat-trick in Haryana Once the dust settled on general elections in the summer, it was time for BJP to prove its mettle in some state assembly elections. In Haryana, BJP got the first relief from the drubbing it faced in general elections. Also watch | BJP does the impossible, clinches Haryana hattrick The party secured a historic third term in the northern state, winning 48 seats and preventing a Congress comeback. BJP stormed back to power with a clear majority in the 90-member assembly, while the Congress got 37, though their vote share was almost equal at 39.94 per cent and 39.09 per cent respectively. BJP and Congress almost captured four-fifths of the entire vote base, making the poll a bipolar affair. The Aam Aadmi Party proved dud and drew a blank despite campaigning aggressively. Jammu and Kashmir gets an elected govt after Article 370 revocation Elections were held in Jammu and Kashmir for the first time after the removal of Articles 370 and 35(A) and witnessed a high turnout. The results in Jammu and Kashmir were on expected lines, where the BJP did well in the Jammu region. The National Conference won 42 out of the 90 seats, while BJP bagged 29. All other parties, including Congress and PDP, were in single digits. But as a consolation, BJP had the largest vote share of 25.64 per cent, more than National Conference’s 23.43 per cent despite the big difference in their seats. Stunning comeback in Maharashtra The Maharashtra assembly elections later in the year saw the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance secure a sweeping victory by winning 235 seats. The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 132 seats, followed by Shiv Sena at 57 and NCP at 41 seats. It was a huge turnaround from the parliamentary elections five months ago. In the western state, Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackeray had already lost his claim of being the inheritor of Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy after aligning with Congress and the NCP to grab power earlier. As for the NCP, the people of Maharashtra chose to side with Ajit Pawar than Sharad Pawar in the family clash over the party reigns. BJP’s choice of alliance and strategy in Maharashtra worked out to perfection. As part of the Mahayuti, BJP had contested 148 seats, Shiv Sena 83 and Ajit Pawar's NCP 59 seats. There doesn’t seem to be even a remote chance of this alliance breaking up anytime soon, since both Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar know that the alliance with the BJP has helped them cement their places in the hearts of Maharashtra voters as the leaders of their parties. In Jharkhand, the BJP put up a good fight and won 21 out of the 81 seats, far short of the majority mark, but came second behind the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) tally of 34. Surprisingly, and in sharp contrast to the results, BJP had got 33.18 per cent of the total polled votes, almost 10 per cent more than JMM, which polled 23.44 per cent. This was a consolation for the BJP leadership and kept alive its hope of winning power in next election, perhaps. Modi govt sailing smoothly The year 2024 saw a return to coalition government at the centre. Even though India has witnessed chaotic coalition governments since the 1990s, Modi 3.0 has so far not seen any hiccups and is sailing unhindered. One reason may be that the allies have been themselves facing an existential threat. While JD (U) is bothered by RJD in Bihar, TDP was also looking for a revival in Telangana. Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar have to fortify their own bases and their claims to legacy, so it is in the interest of all to be solidly behind the BJP. 2024: A mixed bag for the saffron party In most of the elections in 2024, the BJP either won or bagged the highest vote share. The trend proves that BJP is still the preferred choice of most voters and the Lok Sabha poll verdict was just a blip in its trajectory. As for the year ahead, a lot will depend on how effectively PM Modi is able to steer the economic growth in difficult times as wars continue, threaten to escalate, and an unpredictable administration of Donald Trump takes over the reigns in the US in the new year. Will 2025 indeed be a happy new year for the BJP? Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

India's BJP in 2024: After a tough general election, party resumes winning streak

Kuwait
Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his two-day official visit to Kuwait and emplaned for New Delhi on Sunday. In a special gesture, Kuwaiti Prime Minister Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah came to see off PM Modi at the airport as he left for India.
Visiting Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait, PM Modi held multiple engagements and held discussions to further deepen the India-Kuwait ties.
PM Modi also interacted with Kuwaitian social media influencers who promote Yoga in the Gulf nation.
The Prime Minister discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech and security with the Emir of Kuwait, Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. 
Both the leaders agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship to a 'Strategic Partnership'.In a special gesture, the PM of Kuwait came to see off PM Modi at the airport as he left for India.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kuwait-among-indias-top-trading-partners-says-indian-foreign-ministry-ahead-of-pm-modis-historic-visit-785570">Also read: Kuwait among India's 'top trading partners,' says Indian foreign ministry ahead of PM Modi's historic visit</a>
Ahead of his talks with Kuwait's top leadership, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour at the Bayan Palace. On the second day of his two-day Kuwait visit, PM Modi was received by Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of Kuwait.
The leaders recalled the strong historical and friendly ties between the two countries and reaffirmed their full commitment to further expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation. In this context, they agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship to a 'Strategic Partnership', the statement said.
Later, PM Modi also said in a post on X, "Excellent meeting with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. We discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, Infrastructure and security. In line with the close ties between our nations, we have elevated our partnership to a strategic one and I am optimistic that our friendship will flourish even more in the times to come."
PM Modi during his Kuwait visit, discussed the roadmap to further deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations, and affirmed confidence that the relationship between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) would be further strengthened under Kuwait's presidency, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Sunday.
Watch | PM Modi's Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Meets Emir Of Kuwait, Thanks Indian Diaspora
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PM Modi was on a two-day visit to the Gulf nation of Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait. Notably, this is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years.
PM Modi thanked the Emir for ensuring the well-being of the over one million-strong Indian community in Kuwait. Al-Sabah also expressed appreciation for the contribution of the large and vibrant Indian community to Kuwait's development.
PM Modi appreciated the new initiatives being undertaken by Kuwait to fulfill its Vision 2035 and congratulated Al-Sabah for the successful holding of the GCC Summit earlier this month. PM Modi also expressed his gratitude for inviting him yesterday as a 'Guest of Honour' at the opening ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup, the MEA statement said.
Al Sabah reciprocated the Prime Minister's sentiments and expressed appreciation for India's role as a valued partner in Kuwait and the Gulf region. 
The Kuwaiti Emir looked forward to the greater role and contribution of India towards the realisation of Kuwait Vision 2035.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi also interacted with Kuwaitian social media influencers who promote Yoga in the Gulf nation.



Kuwait Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his two-day official visit to Kuwait and emplaned for New Delhi on Sunday. In a special gesture, Kuwaiti Prime Minister Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah came to see off PM Modi at the airport as he left for India. Visiting Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait, PM Modi held multiple engagements and held discussions to further deepen the India-Kuwait ties. PM Modi also interacted with Kuwaitian social media influencers who promote Yoga in the Gulf nation. The Prime Minister discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech and security with the Emir of Kuwait, Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Both the leaders agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship to a 'Strategic Partnership'.In a special gesture, the PM of Kuwait came to see off PM Modi at the airport as he left for India. Also read: Kuwait among India's 'top trading partners,' says Indian foreign ministry ahead of PM Modi's historic visit Ahead of his talks with Kuwait's top leadership, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome and Guard of Honour at the Bayan Palace. On the second day of his two-day Kuwait visit, PM Modi was received by Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of Kuwait. The leaders recalled the strong historical and friendly ties between the two countries and reaffirmed their full commitment to further expanding and deepening bilateral cooperation. In this context, they agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship to a 'Strategic Partnership', the statement said. Later, PM Modi also said in a post on X, "Excellent meeting with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. We discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, Infrastructure and security. In line with the close ties between our nations, we have elevated our partnership to a strategic one and I am optimistic that our friendship will flourish even more in the times to come." PM Modi during his Kuwait visit, discussed the roadmap to further deepen the strategic partnership between the two nations, and affirmed confidence that the relationship between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) would be further strengthened under Kuwait's presidency, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Sunday. Watch | PM Modi's Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Meets Emir Of Kuwait, Thanks Indian Diaspora × PM Modi was on a two-day visit to the Gulf nation of Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Emir of the State of Kuwait. Notably, this is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years. PM Modi thanked the Emir for ensuring the well-being of the over one million-strong Indian community in Kuwait. Al-Sabah also expressed appreciation for the contribution of the large and vibrant Indian community to Kuwait's development. PM Modi appreciated the new initiatives being undertaken by Kuwait to fulfill its Vision 2035 and congratulated Al-Sabah for the successful holding of the GCC Summit earlier this month. PM Modi also expressed his gratitude for inviting him yesterday as a 'Guest of Honour' at the opening ceremony of the Arabian Gulf Cup, the MEA statement said. Al Sabah reciprocated the Prime Minister's sentiments and expressed appreciation for India's role as a valued partner in Kuwait and the Gulf region. The Kuwaiti Emir looked forward to the greater role and contribution of India towards the realisation of Kuwait Vision 2035. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Kuwait PM, in a special gesture, sees off PM Modi at airport as he concludes visit

New Delhi, India
The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is the highest civilian honour given by Kuwait to Heads of State, foreign monarchs, and royal family members as a symbol of friendship and diplomatic ties. It was founded on July 16, 1974, to commemorate Mubarak Al-Sabah, the sheikh of Kuwait from 1896 to 1915, who played a key role in securing Kuwait’s independence from the Ottoman Empire.
<h2>International recognition</h2>
The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer has been awarded to several international leaders over the years, including US Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush, as well as Prince Charles of the United Kingdom. The award is a sign of Kuwait's respect and strong diplomatic relations with these countries.
Also read | <a href=" ">Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer</a>
<h2>PM Modi receives the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer</h2>
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer on Sunday (Dec 22), marking his 20th international honour. This recognition highlights his growing global influence and the strong ties between India and Kuwait. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, called the award “a testament to the long-standing India-Kuwait friendship.”
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A testament to the long standing ??-?? friendship.
HH Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait conferred PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> with The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, highest national award of Kuwait, today at the Bayan Palace.
PM dedicated this honour to… <a href="https://t.co/WGNNCwnPjt">pic.twitter.com/WGNNCwnPjt</a>
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1870786480248881416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>PM Modi's message of gratitude</h2>
Prime Minister Modi expressed his appreciation for the award, dedicating it to the relationship between India and Kuwait, the Indian community in Kuwait, and the people of India. He also reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening the bond between the two countries.
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Excellent meeting with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah.
We discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, Infrastructure and security.
In line with the close ties between our nations, we have elevated our… <a href="https://t.co/yjBXjZk7gd">pic.twitter.com/yjBXjZk7gd</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1870779268172783971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Strengthening India-Kuwait ties</h2>
PM Modi met with the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. They discussed key areas of cooperation, including pharmaceuticals, IT, fintech, infrastructure, and security. Modi emphasised the growing strategic partnership between the two nations and expressed optimism about the future of their relationship.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/american-delta-airlines-passenger-shares-ruff-story-after-getting-bumped-for-a-dog-heres-what-happened-785968">American Delta Airlines passenger shares 'ruff' story after getting bumped for a dog. Here's what happened</a>
<h2>A bright future for India-Kuwait relations</h2>
PM Modi’s visit and the awarding of the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer highlight the growing friendship and strategic partnership between India and Kuwait. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer award was founded on July 16, 1974, to commemorate Mubarak Al-Sabah, the sheikh of Kuwait from 1896 to 1915.



New Delhi, India The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is the highest civilian honour given by Kuwait to Heads of State, foreign monarchs, and royal family members as a symbol of friendship and diplomatic ties. It was founded on July 16, 1974, to commemorate Mubarak Al-Sabah, the sheikh of Kuwait from 1896 to 1915, who played a key role in securing Kuwait’s independence from the Ottoman Empire. International recognition The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer has been awarded to several international leaders over the years, including US Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush, as well as Prince Charles of the United Kingdom. The award is a sign of Kuwait's respect and strong diplomatic relations with these countries. Also read | Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer PM Modi receives the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer on Sunday (Dec 22), marking his 20th international honour. This recognition highlights his growing global influence and the strong ties between India and Kuwait. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, called the award “a testament to the long-standing India-Kuwait friendship.” A testament to the long standing ??-?? friendship. HH Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait conferred PM @narendramodi with The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer, highest national award of Kuwait, today at the Bayan Palace. PM dedicated this honour to… pic.twitter.com/WGNNCwnPjt — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 22, 2024 × PM Modi's message of gratitude Prime Minister Modi expressed his appreciation for the award, dedicating it to the relationship between India and Kuwait, the Indian community in Kuwait, and the people of India. He also reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening the bond between the two countries. Excellent meeting with His Highness the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. We discussed cooperation in key sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, FinTech, Infrastructure and security. In line with the close ties between our nations, we have elevated our… pic.twitter.com/yjBXjZk7gd — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 22, 2024 × Strengthening India-Kuwait ties PM Modi met with the Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah. They discussed key areas of cooperation, including pharmaceuticals, IT, fintech, infrastructure, and security. Modi emphasised the growing strategic partnership between the two nations and expressed optimism about the future of their relationship. Also read | American Delta Airlines passenger shares 'ruff' story after getting bumped for a dog. Here's what happened A bright future for India-Kuwait relations PM Modi’s visit and the awarding of the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer highlight the growing friendship and strategic partnership between India and Kuwait. (With inputs from agencies)

What is the Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer award given to PM Modi ?

New Delhi, India 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer". 
Notably, it is the 20th international award received by PM Modi. The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is awarded to Heads of State and foreign Sovereigns and members of foreign royal families as a sign of friendship. 
PM Modi also received a grand ceremonial welcome in Kuwait during his two-day visit and was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. 
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Kuwait's highest civilian award 'The Order of Mubarak the Great', from the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah
Video: news agency ANI<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> <a href="https://t.co/vsUOU7Tmle">pic.twitter.com/vsUOU7Tmle</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1870774864929566948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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This visit comes with the intent to make the ties strong between India and Kuwait, which is an important partner for India’s energy, security, and trade. 
Memoranda of understanding (MoUs) will be undertaken for signing as the PM will meet Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, strengthening bilateral relations. Before his departure, he will also meet his Kuwaiti counterpart, Dr Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, and hold a joint press conference with him.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mini-hindustan-in-kuwait-pm-addresses-indian-diaspora-during-hala-modi-event-785859">Also Read: ‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Key highlights of the Kuwait visit</h2>
<ul dir="ltr">
<li>As the visit began, the PM attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, where he joined the Emir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister of Kuwait.
</li>
<li>He talked to the Indian crowd at the "Hala Modi" event in the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex and praised their contributions to the development of Kuwait. 
</li>
<li>The PM shed light on the overseas Indian workers by saying, "The aspirations of Indian workers, whether building airports in their villages or striving for a developed India by 2047, inspire me to work harder every day."
</li>
<li>Modi expressed his gratitude for their efforts and dedication, stating, "If you work 10 hours, I must work 11; if you work 11, I must work 12."
</li>
<li>Addressing the diaspora, Modi called India the "growth engine of the world," highlighting advancements in fintech, start-ups, and mobile manufacturing.
</li>
<li>He asserted a strong stance on India’s technological achievements, like optical fiber networks spanning distances equivalent to eight times the Earth-Moon distance.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Gulf Spic Labour Camp and meets Indian workers, in Kuwait
	PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian Prime… <a href="https://t.co/FMlwSIQkif">pic.twitter.com/FMlwSIQkif</a>
	— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1870453942813159890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2 dir="ltr">Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics 'Ramayana and Mahabharata'</h2>
The PM met two Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, into Arabic, and a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer. He expressed gratitude to Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for the warm hospitality extended to him and the Indian community.
The visit highlights India's and Kuwait’s historical connection and importance to India’s economy, as more than a million Indians live in Kuwait, making up 21% of its population and 30% of its workforce.
Watch | PM Modi Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Reaches Kuwait For A Two-day Visit
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(With inputs taken from agencies)

The two-day trip kickstarted on Saturday (Dec 21) after PM Modi had received an invite from the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.



New Delhi, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a two-day visit to Kuwait, was on Sunday (Dec 22) awarded with the country's highest honour, "The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer". Notably, it is the 20th international award received by PM Modi. The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer is awarded to Heads of State and foreign Sovereigns and members of foreign royal families as a sign of friendship. PM Modi also received a grand ceremonial welcome in Kuwait during his two-day visit and was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives Kuwait's highest civilian award 'The Order of Mubarak the Great', from the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah Video: news agency ANI#NarendraModi pic.twitter.com/vsUOU7Tmle — WION (@WIONews) December 22, 2024 × This visit comes with the intent to make the ties strong between India and Kuwait, which is an important partner for India’s energy, security, and trade. Memoranda of understanding (MoUs) will be undertaken for signing as the PM will meet Kuwaiti Crown Prince Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, strengthening bilateral relations. Before his departure, he will also meet his Kuwaiti counterpart, Dr Mohammed Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, and hold a joint press conference with him. Also Read: ‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event Key highlights of the Kuwait visit As the visit began, the PM attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, where he joined the Emir, Crown Prince, and Prime Minister of Kuwait. He talked to the Indian crowd at the "Hala Modi" event in the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex and praised their contributions to the development of Kuwait. The PM shed light on the overseas Indian workers by saying, "The aspirations of Indian workers, whether building airports in their villages or striving for a developed India by 2047, inspire me to work harder every day." Modi expressed his gratitude for their efforts and dedication, stating, "If you work 10 hours, I must work 11; if you work 11, I must work 12." Addressing the diaspora, Modi called India the "growth engine of the world," highlighting advancements in fintech, start-ups, and mobile manufacturing. He asserted a strong stance on India’s technological achievements, like optical fiber networks spanning distances equivalent to eight times the Earth-Moon distance. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Gulf Spic Labour Camp and meets Indian workers, in Kuwait PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian Prime… pic.twitter.com/FMlwSIQkif — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2024 × Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics 'Ramayana and Mahabharata' The PM met two Kuwaiti nationals who translated Indian epics, the Ramayana and Mahabharata, into Arabic, and a 101-year-old former Indian Foreign Service officer. He expressed gratitude to Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah for the warm hospitality extended to him and the Indian community. The visit highlights India's and Kuwait’s historical connection and importance to India’s economy, as more than a million Indians live in Kuwait, making up 21% of its population and 30% of its workforce. Watch | PM Modi Kuwait Visit: Indian PM Modi Reaches Kuwait For A Two-day Visit (With inputs taken from agencies)

Indian PM Modi conferred with Kuwait's highest honour, The Order of Mubarak Al Kabeer

Kuwait City
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kuwait on Saturday (December 21) for a two-day visit, during which he will meet the Indian community and engage in talks with Kuwaiti leaders.
The visit, made at the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, marks the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years.
Sharing on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi wrote, “Landed in Kuwait to a warm welcome. This is the first visit by an Indian PM in 43 years, and it will undoubtedly strengthen the India-Kuwait friendship across various sectors. I look forward to the programmes scheduled for later today and tomorrow."
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Landed in Kuwait to a warm welcome. This is the first visit by an Indian PM in 43 years, and it will undoubtedly strengthen the India-Kuwait friendship across various sectors. I look forward to the programmes scheduled for later today and tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/nF67yTHS1f">pic.twitter.com/nF67yTHS1f</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1870407660790849919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Interior.
The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, “A new chapter in the making! PM @narendramodi arrives in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by H.E Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy PM, Minister of Defence &amp; Interior of Kuwait, H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, FM of Kuwait &amp; several other Ministers &amp; dignitaries at the airport."
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is set to hold discussions with the Kuwaiti leadership and meet members of the Indian diaspora.

Sharing on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi wrote, “Landed in Kuwait to a warm welcome. This is the first visit by an Indian PM in 43 years, and it will undoubtedly strengthen the India-Kuwait friendship across various sectors. I look forward to the programmes scheduled for later today and tomorrow."



Kuwait City Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kuwait on Saturday (December 21) for a two-day visit, during which he will meet the Indian community and engage in talks with Kuwaiti leaders. The visit, made at the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, marks the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Kuwait in 43 years. Sharing on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi wrote, “Landed in Kuwait to a warm welcome. This is the first visit by an Indian PM in 43 years, and it will undoubtedly strengthen the India-Kuwait friendship across various sectors. I look forward to the programmes scheduled for later today and tomorrow." Landed in Kuwait to a warm welcome. This is the first visit by an Indian PM in 43 years, and it will undoubtedly strengthen the India-Kuwait friendship across various sectors. I look forward to the programmes scheduled for later today and tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/nF67yTHS1f — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 21, 2024 × Also read: Multiple idols vandalised in fresh attacks on Hindu temples in Bangladesh Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Interior. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, “A new chapter in the making! PM @narendramodi arrives in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by H.E Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy PM, Minister of Defence & Interior of Kuwait, H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, FM of Kuwait & several other Ministers & dignitaries at the airport." During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is set to hold discussions with the Kuwaiti leadership and meet members of the Indian diaspora.

'New chapter in making': Modi, first Indian PM to visit Kuwait in 43 years, receives warm welcome

New Delhi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a heart-felt letter to spinner Ravi Ashwin, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket in a surprise move. The bowler quit after the end of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18).
<h2>Here's what PM Modi said in letter to Ashwin</h2>
The announcement of your retirement from international cricket surprised fans in India and across the world. At a time when everyone was looking forward to many more off-breaks, you bowled a carrom ball that bowled everyone. However, everyone understands that this must have been a hard decision for you as well, especially after the outstanding career you have had playing for India.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/explained-the-complex-and-strained-cricketing-ties-between-india-and-pakistan-785829">Explained: The complex and strained cricketing ties between India and Pakistan</a>
Please accept my heartiest congratulations on a career that has been full of brilliance, hard work and putting the team above everything else.
You have showcased your all-round prowess by scoring a century and taking five wickets in the same match, many times. With the bat in hand, too, you have given our nation many memories including the brave match-saving innings in Sydney in 2021.
Often people are remembered for some wonderful shot that they played. But you have the unique distinction of being remembered for both a shot and a leave in the legendary match of the WT20 in 2022. Your winning shot elicited great cheers. The way you left the ball before it, allowing it on its way to becoming a wide ball, showed your presence of mind.
Even during moments of adversity, your sincerity and commitment came to the fore. We all remember the way you flew back to contribute to the team even when your mother was hospitalised and the time you kept playing against South Africa even when you couldn't get in touch with your family during the floods in Chennai.
The wit and warmth that you bring to your conversations have been appreciated by fans. I hope that you will continue to post 'Kutti Stories' on cricket, sports and life in general.
May you find ways to continue contributing to the game that you dearly love.
Once again, heartiest congratulations on an illustrious career an wishes for the future.
Ashwin sent shockwaves across the cricketing world with his sudden retirement announcement.
He retired as one of India's greats, having taken 537 Test wickets, which are second only to Anil Kumble's 619, and 765 wickets in all internationals, again second only to Kumble's 953.

Ashwin retired as one of India's greats, having taken 537 Test wickets, which are second only to Anil Kumble's 619, and 765 wickets in all internationals, again second only to Kumble's 953.



New Delhi Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a heart-felt letter to spinner Ravi Ashwin, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket in a surprise move. The bowler quit after the end of the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test at Gabba in Brisbane on Wednesday (Dec 18). Here's what PM Modi said in letter to Ashwin The announcement of your retirement from international cricket surprised fans in India and across the world. At a time when everyone was looking forward to many more off-breaks, you bowled a carrom ball that bowled everyone. However, everyone understands that this must have been a hard decision for you as well, especially after the outstanding career you have had playing for India. Also Read: Explained: The complex and strained cricketing ties between India and Pakistan Please accept my heartiest congratulations on a career that has been full of brilliance, hard work and putting the team above everything else. You have showcased your all-round prowess by scoring a century and taking five wickets in the same match, many times. With the bat in hand, too, you have given our nation many memories including the brave match-saving innings in Sydney in 2021. Often people are remembered for some wonderful shot that they played. But you have the unique distinction of being remembered for both a shot and a leave in the legendary match of the WT20 in 2022. Your winning shot elicited great cheers. The way you left the ball before it, allowing it on its way to becoming a wide ball, showed your presence of mind. Even during moments of adversity, your sincerity and commitment came to the fore. We all remember the way you flew back to contribute to the team even when your mother was hospitalised and the time you kept playing against South Africa even when you couldn't get in touch with your family during the floods in Chennai. The wit and warmth that you bring to your conversations have been appreciated by fans. I hope that you will continue to post 'Kutti Stories' on cricket, sports and life in general. May you find ways to continue contributing to the game that you dearly love. Once again, heartiest congratulations on an illustrious career an wishes for the future. Ashwin sent shockwaves across the cricketing world with his sudden retirement announcement. He retired as one of India's greats, having taken 537 Test wickets, which are second only to Anil Kumble's 619, and 765 wickets in all internationals, again second only to Kumble's 953.

'Hope that you will continue...,' Indian PM Narendra Modi writes heartfelt letter to R Ashwin on retirement

Kuwait City
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the “Hala Modi" event in Kuwait on Saturday, where he addressed the Indian diaspora, saying, "After 43 years, more than four decades, a PM of India has come to Kuwait. For you all, coming to India takes four hours, but for the PM, it took four decades."
“Just 2–2.5 hours ago, I arrived in Kuwait, and ever since setting foot here, I have felt an extraordinary sense of belonging and warmth all around. You all have come from various states of India, but seeing you here feels like a ‘Mini Hindustan’ has gathered before me," he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pm-modi-meets-101-year-old-ex-ifs-officer-in-kuwait-on-his-granddaughters-request-785813" target="_blank">Watch: PM Modi meets 101-year-old ex-IFS officer in Kuwait on his granddaughter's request</a>
"Every year, hundreds of Indians come to Kuwait; you have added Indian touch to Kuwaiti society," PM Modi said.
The event was held at the Shaikh Saad Al Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex in Kuwait City.
He also praised how the Indian diaspora in Kuwait has blended the rich essence of India’s talent, technology, and tradition, leaving a lasting impact on the nation. "You have filled Kuwait's canvas with the colours of Indian skills and the mixed essence of India's talent, technology, and tradition," said Modi, applauding the diverse and vital contributions of Indians in various sectors.
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The warmth and affection of the Indian diaspora in Kuwait is extraordinary. Addressing a community programme. <a href="https://t.co/XzQDP6seLL">https://t.co/XzQDP6seLL</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1870462202710515819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“Whenever I speak to Kuwait’s leadership, they always praise the Indian community," he further said.
“The citizens of Kuwait hold great respect for you Indians because of your hard work, honesty, and skills. Today, India leads the world in remittances, and a significant part of this credit goes to all of you hardworking companions. The people of India also honour your contributions," Modi said at the event.
"In the past, the relationship that was built by culture and commerce is scaling new heights today. Today, Kuwait is an important energy and trade partner of India. For the Kuwaiti companies too, India is a huge investment destination. His Highness Crown Prince of Kuwait, during our meeting in New York, said, "When you are in need, India is your destination." The citizens of India and Kuwait have always helped each other in times of distress," PM Modi added.
Watch | PM Modi In Kuwait: Indian PM Modi's Historic Two Day Visit To Gulf Nation
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The Prime Minister described the relations between India and Kuwait as one of “civilisations, sea, affection, trade and commerce". “India and Kuwait are located on two opposite shores of the Arabian sea, but it is not diplomacy that has connected us, but the bonds of the heart," he mentioned.
Modi recalled Kuwait’s support in providing liquid oxygen when India needed it the most, lauding Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah for taking responsibility for the task himself. In return, Modi expressed satisfaction that India sent vaccines and medical teams to Kuwait when the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic.
(With inputs from agencies)

“Just 2–2.5 hours ago, I arrived in Kuwait, and ever since setting foot here, I have felt an extraordinary sense of belonging and warmth all around. You all have come from various states of India, but seeing you here feels like a ‘Mini Hindustan’ has gathered before me," Narendra Modi said.



Kuwait City Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the “Hala Modi" event in Kuwait on Saturday, where he addressed the Indian diaspora, saying, "After 43 years, more than four decades, a PM of India has come to Kuwait. For you all, coming to India takes four hours, but for the PM, it took four decades." “Just 2–2.5 hours ago, I arrived in Kuwait, and ever since setting foot here, I have felt an extraordinary sense of belonging and warmth all around. You all have come from various states of India, but seeing you here feels like a ‘Mini Hindustan’ has gathered before me," he added. Also read: Watch: PM Modi meets 101-year-old ex-IFS officer in Kuwait on his granddaughter's request "Every year, hundreds of Indians come to Kuwait; you have added Indian touch to Kuwaiti society," PM Modi said. The event was held at the Shaikh Saad Al Abdullah Indoor Sports Complex in Kuwait City. He also praised how the Indian diaspora in Kuwait has blended the rich essence of India’s talent, technology, and tradition, leaving a lasting impact on the nation. "You have filled Kuwait's canvas with the colours of Indian skills and the mixed essence of India's talent, technology, and tradition," said Modi, applauding the diverse and vital contributions of Indians in various sectors. The warmth and affection of the Indian diaspora in Kuwait is extraordinary. Addressing a community programme. https://t.co/XzQDP6seLL — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 21, 2024 × “Whenever I speak to Kuwait’s leadership, they always praise the Indian community," he further said. “The citizens of Kuwait hold great respect for you Indians because of your hard work, honesty, and skills. Today, India leads the world in remittances, and a significant part of this credit goes to all of you hardworking companions. The people of India also honour your contributions," Modi said at the event. "In the past, the relationship that was built by culture and commerce is scaling new heights today. Today, Kuwait is an important energy and trade partner of India. For the Kuwaiti companies too, India is a huge investment destination. His Highness Crown Prince of Kuwait, during our meeting in New York, said, "When you are in need, India is your destination." The citizens of India and Kuwait have always helped each other in times of distress," PM Modi added. Watch | PM Modi In Kuwait: Indian PM Modi's Historic Two Day Visit To Gulf Nation The Prime Minister described the relations between India and Kuwait as one of “civilisations, sea, affection, trade and commerce". “India and Kuwait are located on two opposite shores of the Arabian sea, but it is not diplomacy that has connected us, but the bonds of the heart," he mentioned. Modi recalled Kuwait’s support in providing liquid oxygen when India needed it the most, lauding Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah for taking responsibility for the task himself. In return, Modi expressed satisfaction that India sent vaccines and medical teams to Kuwait when the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Mini Hindustan in Kuwait’: PM addresses Indian diaspora during 'Hala Modi' event

Kuwait
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Kuwait, met with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa, Kuwait-based retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, on Saturday (Dec 21). 
The two met as Handa's granddaughter requested PM Modi to meet her grandfather. Upon his arrival, he visited a hotel where he met Mangal Sain Handa. 
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 101-year-old Ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait City.
PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian… <a href="https://t.co/T2qpgJm422">pic.twitter.com/T2qpgJm422</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1870403557297619251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw's interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office," Juneja posted on X. 
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Humble request to Hon'ble PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw’s interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana <a href="https://twitter.com/MangalSainHanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MangalSainHanda</a> is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office ?
Cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sjaishankaroffc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sjaishankaroffc</a>
— Shreya Juneja (@_ShreyaJuneja) <a href="https://twitter.com/_ShreyaJuneja/status/1870008417991176448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Following her post, PM Modi responded to her and said that he looks forward to meeting him in Kuwait today. 
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Absolutely! I look forward to meeting <a href="https://twitter.com/MangalSainHanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MangalSainHanda</a> Ji in Kuwait today. <a href="https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY">https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1870335738312561095?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The retired IPS officer's son, Dilip Handa told Indian news agency ANI, "This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (his father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi..."
PM Modi is the first Indian prime minister to visit Kuwait in 43 years following the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. 
Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Interior.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-chapter-in-making-pm-modi-arrives-in-kuwait-to-a-warm-welcome-from-deputy-pm-top-kuwaiti-leaders-785801">Also read: 'New chapter in making': PM Modi receives warm welcome in Kuwait, first Indian PM to visit in 43 years</a>
The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, “A new chapter in the making! PM @narendramodi arrives in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by H.E Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy PM, Minister of Defence &amp; Interior of Kuwait, H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, FM of Kuwait &amp; several other Ministers &amp; dignitaries at the airport."
Watch | Modi's Kuwait Visit Aims to Boost Trade Ties
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Earlier on the 100th birthday of Mangal Sain Handa, PM Modi wished him in a heartfelt personal letter and praised his contributions to India's diplomatic efforts. Handa also took to X, and thanked PM Modi for his gesture. 
Modi will be in Kuwait for two days, till Sunday (Dec 22). During his visit, the PM is expected to interact with the Indian community and hold several key meetings with the Kuwaiti leaders. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The two met as Handa's granddaughter requested PM Modi to meet her grandfather. Upon his arrival, he visited a hotel where he met Mangal Sain Handa. 



Kuwait Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Kuwait, met with 101-year-old Mangal Sain Handa, Kuwait-based retired Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, on Saturday (Dec 21). The two met as Handa's granddaughter requested PM Modi to meet her grandfather. Upon his arrival, he visited a hotel where he met Mangal Sain Handa. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 101-year-old Ex-IFS officer Mangal Sain Handa in Kuwait City. PM Modi is on a 2-day visit to Kuwait at the invitation of Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait. This is the first visit of an Indian… pic.twitter.com/T2qpgJm422 — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2024 × "Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw's interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office," Juneja posted on X. Humble request to Hon'ble PM @narendramodi to meet my 101-year-old Nanaji, ex-IFS officer, in Kuwait during tmrw’s interaction with the Indian Diaspora. Nana @MangalSainHanda is a great admirer of yours. Details have been emailed to your office ? Cc: @PMOIndia @sjaishankaroffc — Shreya Juneja (@_ShreyaJuneja) December 20, 2024 × Following her post, PM Modi responded to her and said that he looks forward to meeting him in Kuwait today. Absolutely! I look forward to meeting @MangalSainHanda Ji in Kuwait today. https://t.co/xswtQ0tfSY — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 21, 2024 × The retired IPS officer's son, Dilip Handa told Indian news agency ANI, "This is an experience of a lifetime. PM Modi said he especially came here to meet him (his father). We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi..." PM Modi is the first Indian prime minister to visit Kuwait in 43 years following the invitation of Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was warmly greeted by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, Kuwait's First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence and Interior. Also read: 'New chapter in making': PM Modi receives warm welcome in Kuwait, first Indian PM to visit in 43 years The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal wrote on X, “A new chapter in the making! PM @narendramodi arrives in Kuwait to a ceremonial welcome. Warmly received by H.E Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, First Deputy PM, Minister of Defence & Interior of Kuwait, H.E. Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya, FM of Kuwait & several other Ministers & dignitaries at the airport." Watch | Modi's Kuwait Visit Aims to Boost Trade Ties × Earlier on the 100th birthday of Mangal Sain Handa, PM Modi wished him in a heartfelt personal letter and praised his contributions to India's diplomatic efforts. Handa also took to X, and thanked PM Modi for his gesture. Modi will be in Kuwait for two days, till Sunday (Dec 22). During his visit, the PM is expected to interact with the Indian community and hold several key meetings with the Kuwaiti leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: PM Modi meets 101-year-old ex-IFS officer in Kuwait on his granddaughter's request

New Delhi, India
As he embarked on a two-day visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India and the Gulf nation have shared an interest in peace, security and stability of the West Asian region.
Modi's visit to Kuwait is taking place two weeks after the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria and the continuing Israeli offensive in Gaza.
In a departure statement, Modi said his talks with top Kuwaiti leadership would be an opportunity to chalk out a roadmap for a futuristic partnership between India and Kuwait.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-pm-modi-joins-christmas-celebrations-at-union-minister-george-kurians-home-785596">Watch: PM Modi joins Christmas celebrations at Union Minister George Kurian's home</a>
"We deeply value the historical connection with Kuwait that has been nurtured over generations. We are not just strong trade and energy partners but also have shared interest in peace, security, stability and prosperity in the West Asia region," he said.
Modi said he was looking forward to his meetings with the Emir, the Crown Prince and the prime minister of Kuwait.
"It would be an opportunity to chalk out a roadmap for a futuristic partnership for the benefit of our people and the region," he said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/be-mindful-of-your-comments-india-slams-bangladesh-over-yunus-aides-social-media-post-785675">Be mindful of your comments: India slams Bangladesh over Yunus aide's social media post</a>
"I eagerly look forward to meeting the Indian diaspora in Kuwait who have immensely contributed to strengthening of bonds of friendship between the two nations," he added.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Modi's visit to Kuwait is taking place two weeks after the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria and the continuing Israeli offensive in Gaza



New Delhi, India As he embarked on a two-day visit to Kuwait, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India and the Gulf nation have shared an interest in peace, security and stability of the West Asian region. Modi's visit to Kuwait is taking place two weeks after the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria and the continuing Israeli offensive in Gaza. In a departure statement, Modi said his talks with top Kuwaiti leadership would be an opportunity to chalk out a roadmap for a futuristic partnership between India and Kuwait. Also read | Watch: PM Modi joins Christmas celebrations at Union Minister George Kurian's home "We deeply value the historical connection with Kuwait that has been nurtured over generations. We are not just strong trade and energy partners but also have shared interest in peace, security, stability and prosperity in the West Asia region," he said. Modi said he was looking forward to his meetings with the Emir, the Crown Prince and the prime minister of Kuwait. "It would be an opportunity to chalk out a roadmap for a futuristic partnership for the benefit of our people and the region," he said. Also read | Be mindful of your comments: India slams Bangladesh over Yunus aide's social media post "I eagerly look forward to meeting the Indian diaspora in Kuwait who have immensely contributed to strengthening of bonds of friendship between the two nations," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Modi embarks on two-day visit to Kuwait; to meet emir, crown prince and the PM

New Delhi, India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Kuwait on 21 and 22 December, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Gulf nation in over four decades. 
Speaking about the visit during the special briefing on Prime Minister’s visit to Kuwait, Secretary (CPV &amp; OIA) Arun Kumar Chatterjee said, "PM Modi will undertake a visit to Kuwait on 21st and 22nd December at the invitation of Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of Kuwait. This marks the first visit by an Indian PM to Kuwait in 43 years...There are excellent political relations between the two countries...India ranks among Kuwait's top trading partners with bilateral trade between the two countries at more than US$ 10 billion during the year 2023-24...Kuwait also remains a reliable energy partner for India."
Prime Minister Modi will be welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. He is scheduled to hold meetings with Kuwait's Emir and Crown Prince, followed by delegation-level talks with the Kuwaiti Prime Minister. The Crown Prince will host a banquet in his honour.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-what-is-the-ambedkar-row-that-disrupted-indian-parliament-785556">Explained: What is the 'Ambedkar row' that disrupted Indian Parliament?</a>
"There has been a major transformation in India's ties with the Gulf region. The honourable PM has given special emphasis to strengthening and deepening relations with the Gulf countries," Chatterjee added.
<h2>MEA on India-China Special Representatives' Talks</h2>
The Ministry of External Affairs also addressed the India-China Special Representatives' Talks held on 18 December in Beijing.
"We have put out the details of issues discussed in our press release. The two sides have reaffirmed their commitment to explore a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable framework for the settlement of the boundary question in accordance with the political parameters and guiding principles agreed in 2005. The 2005 agreement is available on MEA website," the ministry stated.
(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Modi will be welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. He is scheduled to hold meetings with Kuwait's Emir and Crown Prince, followed by delegation-level talks with the Kuwaiti Prime Minister. The Crown Prince will host a banquet in his honour.



New Delhi, India Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Kuwait on 21 and 22 December, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Gulf nation in over four decades. Speaking about the visit during the special briefing on Prime Minister’s visit to Kuwait, Secretary (CPV & OIA) Arun Kumar Chatterjee said, "PM Modi will undertake a visit to Kuwait on 21st and 22nd December at the invitation of Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Emir of Kuwait. This marks the first visit by an Indian PM to Kuwait in 43 years...There are excellent political relations between the two countries...India ranks among Kuwait's top trading partners with bilateral trade between the two countries at more than US$ 10 billion during the year 2023-24...Kuwait also remains a reliable energy partner for India." Prime Minister Modi will be welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour at the Bayan Palace. He is scheduled to hold meetings with Kuwait's Emir and Crown Prince, followed by delegation-level talks with the Kuwaiti Prime Minister. The Crown Prince will host a banquet in his honour. Also read: Explained: What is the 'Ambedkar row' that disrupted Indian Parliament? "There has been a major transformation in India's ties with the Gulf region. The honourable PM has given special emphasis to strengthening and deepening relations with the Gulf countries," Chatterjee added. MEA on India-China Special Representatives' Talks The Ministry of External Affairs also addressed the India-China Special Representatives' Talks held on 18 December in Beijing. "We have put out the details of issues discussed in our press release. The two sides have reaffirmed their commitment to explore a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable framework for the settlement of the boundary question in accordance with the political parameters and guiding principles agreed in 2005. The 2005 agreement is available on MEA website," the ministry stated. (With inputs from agencies)

Kuwait among India's 'top trading partners,' says Indian foreign ministry ahead of PM Modi's historic visit

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