Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Saturday as the two sides signed five agreements including a historic pact awarding a consortium of Indian oil companies a 10 per cent stake in offshore oil concession.

Modi, who arrived here from Jordan on the second leg of his three-nation tour, was received by Mohammed Bin Zayed and other members of the Royal family at the airport. The two leaders hugged each other and exchanged pleasantries.

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India and UAE sign five key agreements. <a href="https://t.co/Lhe5TsfNOr">https://t.co/Lhe5TsfNOr</a> 
 
via NMApp <a href="https://t.co/n9LF1UUQsQ">pic.twitter.com/n9LF1UUQsQ</a>
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The Prime Minister thanked the Crown Prince for the special gesture of receiving him at the airport and said his visit will have a positive impact on India-UAE ties.

&quot;We warmly welcome our state guest and valued friend, the Indian Prime Minister H.E.@narendramodi to the UAE. His visit reflects our longstanding historical ties and is testament to our friendly bilateral relationship,&quot; Mohammed Bin Zayed, also the Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, tweeted.

Prime Minister Modi, who is here on his second visit to the UAE, held wide-ranging talks with Mohammed Bin Zayed at the Royal Palace.

Modi is the first foreign leader to be invited to the palace by the Crown Prince, who appreciated the role played by Indian workers in the development of UAE as a modern nation, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Modi had first visited the UAE as prime minister in August, 2015.

After their talks, the two sides signed five agreements related to energy sector, railways, manpower and financial services.

An MOU between Indian Consortium (OVL, BPRL &amp; IOCL) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) was signed for the acquisition of a 10 per cent participating interest in the Abu Dhabi&#39;s offshore Lower Zakum Concession, a statement issued by the Indian embassy here said.

The concession will be for 40 years from 2018 to 2057. Sixty per cent of the participating interest will be retained by ADNOC and remaining 30 per cent will be awarded to other international oil companies, the statement said. 
&quot;This is the first Indian Investment in upstream oil sector of UAE, transforming the traditional buyer-seller relationship to a long-term investor relationship,&quot; it added.

To cooperate in the field of manpower, India and the UAE signed an MoU that aims to institutionalise the collaborative administration of contractual employment of Indian workers in the Gulf country.

Under the MoU, both the sides will work to integrate their labour related e-platforms for ending the existing malpractices, combat trafficking and organise collaborative programs for education and awareness of contractual workers. 
An MoU for technical cooperation in railways was also signed between the two sides. The MoU aims at cooperation in infrastructure sector especially railways.

&quot;The MoU will facilitate development of joint projects, knowledge sharing, joint research and technology transfer. The MoU envisages formation of a Joint Working Group for institutionalising the cooperation mechanism,&quot; the statement said.

To deepen bilateral cooperation in the field of finance, an MoU between Bombay Stock Exchange and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange was also signed. It aims at enhancing cooperation between both the countries in financial services industry.

The MoU would facilitate investment in financial markets by investors from both the countries.

An MoU between Government of Jammu and Kashmir and DP World was also signed to establish multi-modal logistics park and hub in Jammu comprising warehouses and specialised storage solutions.

Various buildings in Abu Dhabi were lit in the Indian tricolor as the city was decked up to welcome Prime Minister Modi, who also attended a state banquet hosted by the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince.

The Prime Minister will visit Wahat Al Karama, the UAE martyr&#39;s war memorial here, tomorrow before travelling to Dubai where he will interact with the Indian community at an event at the Dubai Opera House and will witness the groundbreaking ceremony of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. The ceremony will be live-streamed to the Opera House.

Prime Minister Modi will also deliver a keynote address at the World Government Summit in Dubai where India is a guest of honour this year. He will make inaugural address on the theme: &#39;Technology for development&#39;. 
On the first led of his trip, Modi earlier in the day travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to make an official visit to Palestine.

In Ramallah, Prime Minister Modi met Mahmoud Abbas during which the Palestinian President sought India&#39;s support for a multi-country mechanism to achieve a &quot;just and desired peace&quot; with Israel in accordance with the two-state solution.

They discussed the full range of India-Palestine ties following which the two sides signed six agreements worth around USD 50 million that includes setting up of a USD 30 million super speciality hospital in Beit Sahur. 
From the UAE, Modi will travel to Oman.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi, who is here on his second visit to the UAE, held wide-ranging talks with Mohammed Bin Zayed at the Royal Palace.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Saturday as the two sides signed five agreements including a historic pact awarding a consortium of Indian oil companies a 10 per cent stake in offshore oil concession. Modi, who arrived here from Jordan on the second leg of his three-nation tour, was received by Mohammed Bin Zayed and other members of the Royal family at the airport. The two leaders hugged each other and exchanged pleasantries. India and UAE sign five key agreements. https://t.co/Lhe5TsfNOr via NMApp pic.twitter.com/n9LF1UUQsQ — PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 10, 2018 × The Prime Minister thanked the Crown Prince for the special gesture of receiving him at the airport and said his visit will have a positive impact on India-UAE ties. "We warmly welcome our state guest and valued friend, the Indian Prime Minister H.E.@narendramodi to the UAE. His visit reflects our longstanding historical ties and is testament to our friendly bilateral relationship," Mohammed Bin Zayed, also the Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, tweeted. Prime Minister Modi, who is here on his second visit to the UAE, held wide-ranging talks with Mohammed Bin Zayed at the Royal Palace. Modi is the first foreign leader to be invited to the palace by the Crown Prince, who appreciated the role played by Indian workers in the development of UAE as a modern nation, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Modi had first visited the UAE as prime minister in August, 2015. After their talks, the two sides signed five agreements related to energy sector, railways, manpower and financial services. An MOU between Indian Consortium (OVL, BPRL & IOCL) and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) was signed for the acquisition of a 10 per cent participating interest in the Abu Dhabi's offshore Lower Zakum Concession, a statement issued by the Indian embassy here said. The concession will be for 40 years from 2018 to 2057. Sixty per cent of the participating interest will be retained by ADNOC and remaining 30 per cent will be awarded to other international oil companies, the statement said. "This is the first Indian Investment in upstream oil sector of UAE, transforming the traditional buyer-seller relationship to a long-term investor relationship," it added. To cooperate in the field of manpower, India and the UAE signed an MoU that aims to institutionalise the collaborative administration of contractual employment of Indian workers in the Gulf country. Under the MoU, both the sides will work to integrate their labour related e-platforms for ending the existing malpractices, combat trafficking and organise collaborative programs for education and awareness of contractual workers. An MoU for technical cooperation in railways was also signed between the two sides. The MoU aims at cooperation in infrastructure sector especially railways. "The MoU will facilitate development of joint projects, knowledge sharing, joint research and technology transfer. The MoU envisages formation of a Joint Working Group for institutionalising the cooperation mechanism," the statement said. To deepen bilateral cooperation in the field of finance, an MoU between Bombay Stock Exchange and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange was also signed. It aims at enhancing cooperation between both the countries in financial services industry. The MoU would facilitate investment in financial markets by investors from both the countries. An MoU between Government of Jammu and Kashmir and DP World was also signed to establish multi-modal logistics park and hub in Jammu comprising warehouses and specialised storage solutions. Various buildings in Abu Dhabi were lit in the Indian tricolor as the city was decked up to welcome Prime Minister Modi, who also attended a state banquet hosted by the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince. The Prime Minister will visit Wahat Al Karama, the UAE martyr's war memorial here, tomorrow before travelling to Dubai where he will interact with the Indian community at an event at the Dubai Opera House and will witness the groundbreaking ceremony of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi. The ceremony will be live-streamed to the Opera House. Prime Minister Modi will also deliver a keynote address at the World Government Summit in Dubai where India is a guest of honour this year. He will make inaugural address on the theme: 'Technology for development'. On the first led of his trip, Modi earlier in the day travelled to Ramallah, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to make an official visit to Palestine. In Ramallah, Prime Minister Modi met Mahmoud Abbas during which the Palestinian President sought India's support for a multi-country mechanism to achieve a "just and desired peace" with Israel in accordance with the two-state solution. They discussed the full range of India-Palestine ties following which the two sides signed six agreements worth around USD 50 million that includes setting up of a USD 30 million super speciality hospital in Beit Sahur. From the UAE, Modi will travel to Oman.

PM meets Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; India, UAE sign 5 agreements

Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s visit to Jordan is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in three decades, said Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

Gokhale further said this is first ever to visit after former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi`s visit to the country in 1988.

On February 9, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Jordan, which was his transit to Palestine.

The Prime Minister`s office expressed gratitude to King Abdullah II of Jordan for facilitating the transit.

On his arrival in Amman, Modi was received by Jordan Prime Minister Hani Al-Mulki.&quot;Jordan`s King Abdullah II described it [the visit] as the beginning of the new chapter in our [India and Jordan] ties,&quot; Gokhale said, in a media briefing.

The Prime Minister has invited the King of Jordon to make a state visit to India in late February for three days.

&quot;Prime Minister Narendra Modi is looking forward to the visit. During the visit we [India and Jordan] will discuss several issues and also how to take the bilateral relationship forward,&quot; the foreign secretary added.

India and Jordan enjoy friendly ties since diplomatic relations were established in 1950. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Vijay Gokhale said this is first ever to visit after former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi`s visit to the country in 1988

Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s visit to Jordan is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in three decades, said Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. Gokhale further said this is first ever to visit after former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi`s visit to the country in 1988. On February 9, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Jordan, which was his transit to Palestine. The Prime Minister`s office expressed gratitude to King Abdullah II of Jordan for facilitating the transit. On his arrival in Amman, Modi was received by Jordan Prime Minister Hani Al-Mulki."Jordan`s King Abdullah II described it [the visit] as the beginning of the new chapter in our [India and Jordan] ties," Gokhale said, in a media briefing. The Prime Minister has invited the King of Jordon to make a state visit to India in late February for three days. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is looking forward to the visit. During the visit we [India and Jordan] will discuss several issues and also how to take the bilateral relationship forward," the foreign secretary added. India and Jordan enjoy friendly ties since diplomatic relations were established in 1950.

Modi's Jordan visit, first in three decades by Indian PM: Vijay Gokhale

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, in a media briefing in Abu Dhabi, told reporters that Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a friend.

According to Gokhale, the prince also stated that Abu Dhabi is PM Modi&#39;s second home.&nbsp;

The Prince also noted that &quot;the contribution of Indians in building the UAE is what every citizen of Abu Dhabi appreciates&quot;.

Prince Al Nahyan also shared that the &quot;Indians with their hard work and trustworthiness have built this country. The Indian community can be trusted. Trust was the word used&quot;.

PM Modi was received by the Prince and the members of the royal family at the Abu Dhabi airport.&nbsp;

&quot;The Prince of Abu Dhabi along with the members of the royal family were present at the airport to receive Prime Minister Modi. This is an exceptional honour, &quot; noted Gokhale.&nbsp;

India and the UAE have also signed five Memorandums of Understanding (MoU)s in total.&nbsp;

PM Modi was received by the Prince and the members of the royal family at the Abu Dhabi airport

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, in a media briefing in Abu Dhabi, told reporters that Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a friend. According to Gokhale, the prince also stated that Abu Dhabi is PM Modi's second home. The Prince also noted that "the contribution of Indians in building the UAE is what every citizen of Abu Dhabi appreciates". Prince Al Nahyan also shared that the "Indians with their hard work and trustworthiness have built this country. The Indian community can be trusted. Trust was the word used". PM Modi was received by the Prince and the members of the royal family at the Abu Dhabi airport. "The Prince of Abu Dhabi along with the members of the royal family were present at the airport to receive Prime Minister Modi. This is an exceptional honour, " noted Gokhale. India and the UAE have also signed five Memorandums of Understanding (MoU)s in total.

'PM Modi is a friend,' says Abu Dhabi Prince Mohammed bin Zayed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday arrived in Ramallah on the first leg of his three-nation tour.&nbsp;

Soon after his arrival, the prime minister tweeted that the &quot;historic visit&quot; would improve bilateral ties between the two countries.

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Reached Palestine. This is a historic visit that will lead to stronger bilateral cooperation. <a href="https://t.co/PpzN1JaBYO">pic.twitter.com/PpzN1JaBYO</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/962249781614608384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi was escorted by Royal Jordanian choppers by the King and Israeli choppers on his way to Palestine.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Earlier visuals from Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s journey to Palestine&#39;s Ramallah via a chopper, which was escorted by Royal Jordanian choppers by the King and Israeli choppers <a href="https://t.co/ginxPzBTnV">pic.twitter.com/ginxPzBTnV</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/962250396180844544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and conferred him with the Grand Collar of the state of Palestine.&nbsp;The commendation of the Grand Collar read, &quot;In recognition of his wise leadership, lofty national and international stature, in appreciation of his efforts to promote historic relations between Palestine and India; in acknowledgement of his support to our people&#39;s right to freedom so peace prevails in region.&quot;

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Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas met Prime Minister Narendra Modi &amp; conferred him with the Grand Collar of the state of Palestine <a href="https://t.co/AgjFin8Vje">pic.twitter.com/AgjFin8Vje</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/962262014008659968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Modi and Abbas had discussions, signed six memorandum of understanding (MOUs), and held a joint press conference. They will have lunch before Modi leaves for Amman in a chopper.

While welcoming PM Modi, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said Indian leadership had always stood by peace in Palestine.

&quot;It is my honour to welcome you as a great guest, on your first historic visit to Palestine which holds, to you personally and to the people of India, sentiments of love and appreciation. Indian leadership has always stood by peace in Palestine,&quot; said President Mahmoud Abbas.

Modi was received by President Abbas before the ceremonial welcome at the Muqata&#39;a.

Modi began his engagement by laying a wreath at the Mausoleum of iconic Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. He was accompanied by his Palestinian counterpart Rami Hamdallah.

He was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at Al-Muqata&#39;a, compound of the presidential headquarters in Ramallah.

&nbsp;

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From the ceremonial welcome for PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> in Palestine. <a href="https://t.co/XbTPAab8Ih">pic.twitter.com/XbTPAab8Ih</a>
&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/962262064474542080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

After paying homage to Arafat, the prime minister will take a short tour accompanied by Hamdallah of the Yasser Arafat Museum located adjacent to the Mausoleum.

During his maiden visit to Israel last year, Modi did not travel to Ramallah, the Palestinian seat of government. His standalone visit to Israel had led to many analysts questioning the future of the Indo-Palestine ties.

This time Modi skipped Israel in a clear message that India is de-hyphenating its ties with Israel and Palestine.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Palestine&#39;s Ramallah. <a href="https://t.co/ePZO7tmEGn">pic.twitter.com/ePZO7tmEGn</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/962237815517007872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Modi and President Abbas discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations as well as discuss the regional and international situations of common concern.

&quot;We will discuss the recent updates with Prime Minister Modi, and the recent developments in the peace process, the bilateral relations, and the regional situations. And the possible role India can play in enhancing peace in the region, as well as discussing different economical aspects beyond the existing ties we already possess,&quot; Abbas had said.

Describing India as a &quot;very respected country in the international arena&quot;, the 82-year-old Palestinian President had said that India can have a possible role in creating a multilateral forum of negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis to reach a final agreement.

According to Abbas, Modi&#39;s visit to the region reflects India&#39;s long-held position of supporting peace and stability in the region.

Modi&#39;s visit to Palestine comes amid heightened tensions in the region after US President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

The unilateral US decision to declare Jerusalem as the capital of Israel was challenged at the UN General Assembly where 128 nations, including India, voted to turn down the move as &quot;null and void&quot;.

Trump&#39;s decision to declare Jerusalem as Israel&#39;s capital angered the Palestinians, sparked protests in the Middle East and raised concern that it could further destabilise the region.

Though India has shied away from becoming a party in the Israel-Palestinian conflict, the Palestinian leader on several occasions has stressed on a possible role for New Delhi in the Middle East peace process.

India believes in a two-state solution in which both Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist peacefully.

The two-state solution envisions independent Israeli and Palestinian states coexisting side by side peacefully. The Palestinians see east Jerusalem as their future capital.&nbsp;

Modi, the first Indian prime minister to visit Ramallah, arrived here on the first leg of his three-nation tour.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday arrived in Ramallah on the first leg of his three-nation tour. Soon after his arrival, the prime minister tweeted that the "historic visit" would improve bilateral ties between the two countries. Reached Palestine. This is a historic visit that will lead to stronger bilateral cooperation. pic.twitter.com/PpzN1JaBYO — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 10, 2018 × PM Modi was escorted by Royal Jordanian choppers by the King and Israeli choppers on his way to Palestine. #WATCH Earlier visuals from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's journey to Palestine's Ramallah via a chopper, which was escorted by Royal Jordanian choppers by the King and Israeli choppers pic.twitter.com/ginxPzBTnV — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2018 × Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and conferred him with the Grand Collar of the state of Palestine. The commendation of the Grand Collar read, "In recognition of his wise leadership, lofty national and international stature, in appreciation of his efforts to promote historic relations between Palestine and India; in acknowledgement of his support to our people's right to freedom so peace prevails in region." Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas met Prime Minister Narendra Modi & conferred him with the Grand Collar of the state of Palestine pic.twitter.com/AgjFin8Vje — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2018 × Modi and Abbas had discussions, signed six memorandum of understanding (MOUs), and held a joint press conference. They will have lunch before Modi leaves for Amman in a chopper. While welcoming PM Modi, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said Indian leadership had always stood by peace in Palestine. "It is my honour to welcome you as a great guest, on your first historic visit to Palestine which holds, to you personally and to the people of India, sentiments of love and appreciation. Indian leadership has always stood by peace in Palestine," said President Mahmoud Abbas. Modi was received by President Abbas before the ceremonial welcome at the Muqata'a. Modi began his engagement by laying a wreath at the Mausoleum of iconic Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. He was accompanied by his Palestinian counterpart Rami Hamdallah. He was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at Al-Muqata'a, compound of the presidential headquarters in Ramallah. From the ceremonial welcome for PM @narendramodi in Palestine. pic.twitter.com/XbTPAab8Ih — PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 10, 2018 × After paying homage to Arafat, the prime minister will take a short tour accompanied by Hamdallah of the Yasser Arafat Museum located adjacent to the Mausoleum. During his maiden visit to Israel last year, Modi did not travel to Ramallah, the Palestinian seat of government. His standalone visit to Israel had led to many analysts questioning the future of the Indo-Palestine ties. This time Modi skipped Israel in a clear message that India is de-hyphenating its ties with Israel and Palestine. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Palestine's Ramallah. pic.twitter.com/ePZO7tmEGn — ANI (@ANI) February 10, 2018 × Prime Minister Modi and President Abbas discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations as well as discuss the regional and international situations of common concern. "We will discuss the recent updates with Prime Minister Modi, and the recent developments in the peace process, the bilateral relations, and the regional situations. And the possible role India can play in enhancing peace in the region, as well as discussing different economical aspects beyond the existing ties we already possess," Abbas had said. Describing India as a "very respected country in the international arena", the 82-year-old Palestinian President had said that India can have a possible role in creating a multilateral forum of negotiations between the Palestinians and Israelis to reach a final agreement. According to Abbas, Modi's visit to the region reflects India's long-held position of supporting peace and stability in the region. Modi's visit to Palestine comes amid heightened tensions in the region after US President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The unilateral US decision to declare Jerusalem as the capital of Israel was challenged at the UN General Assembly where 128 nations, including India, voted to turn down the move as "null and void". Trump's decision to declare Jerusalem as Israel's capital angered the Palestinians, sparked protests in the Middle East and raised concern that it could further destabilise the region. Though India has shied away from becoming a party in the Israel-Palestinian conflict, the Palestinian leader on several occasions has stressed on a possible role for New Delhi in the Middle East peace process. India believes in a two-state solution in which both Israel and a future Palestinian state coexist peacefully. The two-state solution envisions independent Israeli and Palestinian states coexisting side by side peacefully. The Palestinians see east Jerusalem as their future capital.

'Historic visit', tweets PM Modi in Palestine

India&#39;s improved relations with Israel could actually benefit Palestine, experts said here, underlining that the Palestinian leadership sees an opportunity in Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s visit in reviving the peace process with Israel.

Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Palestine, is reaching Ramallah amid heightened tensions in the region after US President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

India has consistently voted in favour of resolutions supporting the Palestinian cause at international forums, an issue that has bothered strategic partner Israel.

Ahmad Majdalani, a Palestine Liberation Organisation Executive Committee member, said improved relations between Israel and India could help the Palestinians.

&quot;The growing ties between them could be positive, because now India has more leverage with Israel and can pressure it in our favour,&quot; Majdalani was quoted as saying by The Jerusalem Post. 
In discussions with several officials in Ramallah, who spoke on conditions of anonymity, it appears that the Palestinian leadership sees in the Indian prime minister&#39;s visit an opportunity to seek his assistance in pushing forward the deadlocked peace process.

&quot;India today enjoys wider acceptance in the global community. The recent participation of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) leaders in its Republic Day function is a clear demonstration of its enhanced status. Its membership in the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and visibility at several leading international forums, clearly shows that it is today a global player&quot;, an official said.

Another official pointed at the &quot;moral standing&quot; India enjoys in the international community which can be put to good use.

The hype around India&#39;s strategic ties with Israel and the bonhomie around Modi&#39;s visit to Israel and its prime minister&#39;s visit to India also does not seem to perturb the Palestinians.

&quot;Well even Jordan and Egypt have full diplomatic relations with Israel so why can&#39;t India have,&quot; said Ayman, a university student.

His friends seem to back the same contention displaying a great degree of acquaintance of international politics. Some appreciated India&#39;s support for the Palestinians at the UN despite all the publicity around the personal chemistry between Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netnayahu.

When asked about India&#39;s growing engagement with Israel, President Mahmoud Abbas himself emphaticlally asserted that &quot;any state has the right to establish relations with other countries&quot;.

The Indian prime minister would be skipping Israel during his tour of the Middle East in a clear message that New Delhi is de-hyphenating its ties with Israel and Palestine.

Modi had visited Israel last year in July in a standalone visit that had led to many analysts questioning the future of the Indo-Palestine ties.

The question that arises out of Abbas&#39; effort is if Israel would accept a multilateral forum of the sort being promoted by him to seek negotiated peace. Israel has made it clear that it will only work under a US-led peace process.

India has also consistently voted in favour of the Palestinians at all international forums and Netanyahu clearly expressed his &quot;disappointment&quot; at New Delhi&#39;s recent vote at the UN General Assembly where 128 nations rejected US&#39; unilateral declaration of Jerusalem as Israel&#39;s capital.

As Modi embarks on the three-hour hectic trip to Palestine today, he kickstarts his engagement by laying a wreath at the Mausoleum of iconic Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

The Israeli press has highlighted the event with some reports expressing disappointment over the gesture. Many Israelis see Arafat responsible for th killing of several innocent civilians and stoking violence in the region.

Modi will be accompanied by his Palestinian counterpart Rami Hamdallah during the ceremony.

The Mausoleum of Yasser Arafat was unveiled on November 10, 2007 and is located adjacent to the Palestinian Presidential compound, also known as Muqata&#39;a here.

After paying homage to Arafat, the prime minister will take a short tour accompanied by Hamdallah of the Yasser Arafat Museum located adjacent to the Mausoleum.

He will spend some 20 minutes touring the 15-month-old Yasser Arafat Museum, which chronicles the life of the former Palestinian leader.

According to Muhammad Halayka, the director of the Arafat Museum, Modi will be the first Prime Minister to visit the site.

Modi will then be received by President Abbas before the ceremonial welcome at the Muqata&#39;a.

The two leaders will then have discussions, sign bilateral agreements, hold a joint press conference and share lunch before Modi leaves for Amman in a chopper following a farewell ceremony.

Modi will then leave for the UAE later in the day for a two-day visit.

Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Palestine, is reaching Ramallah amid heightened tensions in the region after US President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel

India's improved relations with Israel could actually benefit Palestine, experts said here, underlining that the Palestinian leadership sees an opportunity in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit in reviving the peace process with Israel. Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Palestine, is reaching Ramallah amid heightened tensions in the region after US President Donald Trump recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. India has consistently voted in favour of resolutions supporting the Palestinian cause at international forums, an issue that has bothered strategic partner Israel. Ahmad Majdalani, a Palestine Liberation Organisation Executive Committee member, said improved relations between Israel and India could help the Palestinians. "The growing ties between them could be positive, because now India has more leverage with Israel and can pressure it in our favour," Majdalani was quoted as saying by The Jerusalem Post. In discussions with several officials in Ramallah, who spoke on conditions of anonymity, it appears that the Palestinian leadership sees in the Indian prime minister's visit an opportunity to seek his assistance in pushing forward the deadlocked peace process. "India today enjoys wider acceptance in the global community. The recent participation of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) leaders in its Republic Day function is a clear demonstration of its enhanced status. Its membership in the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and visibility at several leading international forums, clearly shows that it is today a global player", an official said. Another official pointed at the "moral standing" India enjoys in the international community which can be put to good use. The hype around India's strategic ties with Israel and the bonhomie around Modi's visit to Israel and its prime minister's visit to India also does not seem to perturb the Palestinians. "Well even Jordan and Egypt have full diplomatic relations with Israel so why can't India have," said Ayman, a university student. His friends seem to back the same contention displaying a great degree of acquaintance of international politics. Some appreciated India's support for the Palestinians at the UN despite all the publicity around the personal chemistry between Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netnayahu. When asked about India's growing engagement with Israel, President Mahmoud Abbas himself emphaticlally asserted that "any state has the right to establish relations with other countries". The Indian prime minister would be skipping Israel during his tour of the Middle East in a clear message that New Delhi is de-hyphenating its ties with Israel and Palestine. Modi had visited Israel last year in July in a standalone visit that had led to many analysts questioning the future of the Indo-Palestine ties. The question that arises out of Abbas' effort is if Israel would accept a multilateral forum of the sort being promoted by him to seek negotiated peace. Israel has made it clear that it will only work under a US-led peace process. India has also consistently voted in favour of the Palestinians at all international forums and Netanyahu clearly expressed his "disappointment" at New Delhi's recent vote at the UN General Assembly where 128 nations rejected US' unilateral declaration of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. As Modi embarks on the three-hour hectic trip to Palestine today, he kickstarts his engagement by laying a wreath at the Mausoleum of iconic Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. The Israeli press has highlighted the event with some reports expressing disappointment over the gesture. Many Israelis see Arafat responsible for th killing of several innocent civilians and stoking violence in the region. Modi will be accompanied by his Palestinian counterpart Rami Hamdallah during the ceremony. The Mausoleum of Yasser Arafat was unveiled on November 10, 2007 and is located adjacent to the Palestinian Presidential compound, also known as Muqata'a here. After paying homage to Arafat, the prime minister will take a short tour accompanied by Hamdallah of the Yasser Arafat Museum located adjacent to the Mausoleum. He will spend some 20 minutes touring the 15-month-old Yasser Arafat Museum, which chronicles the life of the former Palestinian leader. According to Muhammad Halayka, the director of the Arafat Museum, Modi will be the first Prime Minister to visit the site. Modi will then be received by President Abbas before the ceremonial welcome at the Muqata'a. The two leaders will then have discussions, sign bilateral agreements, hold a joint press conference and share lunch before Modi leaves for Amman in a chopper following a farewell ceremony. Modi will then leave for the UAE later in the day for a two-day visit.

India's improved ties with Israel could benefit Palestine

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-in-palestine-all-you-need-to-know-32379">Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Palestine: All you need to know</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s first engagement after arriving in Ramallah on Saturday morning will be to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of Late President Yasser Arafat.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-blocks-release-of-russia-memo-drafted-by-democrats-32375">Trump blocks release of Russia memo drafted by Democrats</a>

US President Donald Trump on Friday blocked the release of a classified memo written by congressional Democrats to rebut a Republican document that he allowed to be made public last week that claimed FBI and Justice Department bias against him in the federal probe of Russia and the 2016 U.S. election.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-attack-sunjwan-army-camp-in-jammu-and-kashmir-2-injured-32376">2 injured in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-attack-sunjwan-army-camp-in-jammu-and-kashmir-2-injured-32376">terrorist</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorist-attack-sunjwan-army-camp-in-jammu-and-kashmir-2-injured-32376"> attack at Sunjwan Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir</a>

Terrorist attacked Sunjwan Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday morning. According to Army sources, gunshots were heard early in morning around 4:55 inside Army camp. Two people have sustained injuries in the ongoing operations, according to news agency ANI.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/olympics-awkward-diplomacy-on-show-as-peace-games-begin-32370">Olympics: Awkward diplomacy on show as &#39;peace&#39; Games begin</a>

The Winter Olympics sparked to life in a vivid, colourful ceremony of fire and ice in South Korea on Friday, though the diplomacy was tougher to choreograph in the stadium where leaders from nations that are sworn enemies sat close together.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wishes-disgraced-aide-well-after-domestic-abuse-allegations-32378">Trump wishes disgraced aide well after domestic abuse allegations</a>

President Donald Trump on Friday praised White House aide Rob Porter, who resigned this week after allegations that he abused two former wives, and stressed that Porter has maintained his innocence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Palestine: All you need to know Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first engagement after arriving in Ramallah on Saturday morning will be to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of Late President Yasser Arafat. Trump blocks release of Russia memo drafted by Democrats US President Donald Trump on Friday blocked the release of a classified memo written by congressional Democrats to rebut a Republican document that he allowed to be made public last week that claimed FBI and Justice Department bias against him in the federal probe of Russia and the 2016 U.S. election. 2 injured in terrorist attack at Sunjwan Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir Terrorist attacked Sunjwan Army camp in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday morning. According to Army sources, gunshots were heard early in morning around 4:55 inside Army camp. Two people have sustained injuries in the ongoing operations, according to news agency ANI. Olympics: Awkward diplomacy on show as 'peace' Games begin The Winter Olympics sparked to life in a vivid, colourful ceremony of fire and ice in South Korea on Friday, though the diplomacy was tougher to choreograph in the stadium where leaders from nations that are sworn enemies sat close together. Trump wishes disgraced aide well after domestic abuse allegations President Donald Trump on Friday praised White House aide Rob Porter, who resigned this week after allegations that he abused two former wives, and stressed that Porter has maintained his innocence.

WION Morning News Brief, February 10, 2018

Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s first engagement after arriving in Ramallah on Saturday morning will be to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of Late President Yasser Arafat.

Prime Minister Modi will be accompanied by his Palestinian counterpart Rami Hamdallah.

The Mausoleum of Yasser Arafat was unveiled on November 10, 2007 and is located adjacent to the compound of Presidential Headquarters (Al-Muqata&#39;a).

After paying homage to Yasser Arafat at the Mausoleum, the Prime Minister will take a short tour, accompanied by Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, of the Yasser Arafat Museum located adjacent to the Mausoleum.

Prime Minister Modi, who is on his maiden trip to Palestine, will be received by President Mahmoud Abbas before the ceremonial welcome in the compound of the Presidential Headquarters, also known as Muqata&#39;a.

The Presidential Headquarters in Ramallah is the compound that encompasses the Office of the President, offices of Advisors to President, in addition to the headquarters of the Presidential Guard.

The Prime Minister on his first day of the three-nation tour will hold meetings and exchange agreements with ministers in Ramallah in the West Bank.

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Prime Minister Modi&#39;s visit to Ramallah in Palestine was the first ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister there.

Prime Minister Modi&#39;s visit to Palestine comes a month after India hosted Israel&#39;s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

On February 9, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Jordan, which is his transit to Palestine. The prime minister&#39;s office expressed gratitude to King Abdullah II of Jordan for facilitating the transit.

After Palestine, the Prime Minister would visit United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman.

The Prime Minister will leave for the UAE tomorrow and then on the final leg, to Muscat on February 11, before returning to Delhi the following day.

Prior to Prime Minister Modi, former President Pranab Mukherjee and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had visited Palestine in October 2015 and January 2016 respectively.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first engagement after arriving in Ramallah on Saturday morning will be to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of Late President Yasser Arafat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first engagement after arriving in Ramallah on Saturday morning will be to lay a wreath at the Mausoleum of Late President Yasser Arafat. Prime Minister Modi will be accompanied by his Palestinian counterpart Rami Hamdallah. The Mausoleum of Yasser Arafat was unveiled on November 10, 2007 and is located adjacent to the compound of Presidential Headquarters (Al-Muqata'a). After paying homage to Yasser Arafat at the Mausoleum, the Prime Minister will take a short tour, accompanied by Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, of the Yasser Arafat Museum located adjacent to the Mausoleum. Prime Minister Modi, who is on his maiden trip to Palestine, will be received by President Mahmoud Abbas before the ceremonial welcome in the compound of the Presidential Headquarters, also known as Muqata'a. The Presidential Headquarters in Ramallah is the compound that encompasses the Office of the President, offices of Advisors to President, in addition to the headquarters of the Presidential Guard. The Prime Minister on his first day of the three-nation tour will hold meetings and exchange agreements with ministers in Ramallah in the West Bank. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Prime Minister Modi's visit to Ramallah in Palestine was the first ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister there. Prime Minister Modi's visit to Palestine comes a month after India hosted Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. On February 9, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Jordan, which is his transit to Palestine. The prime minister's office expressed gratitude to King Abdullah II of Jordan for facilitating the transit. After Palestine, the Prime Minister would visit United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman. The Prime Minister will leave for the UAE tomorrow and then on the final leg, to Muscat on February 11, before returning to Delhi the following day. Prior to Prime Minister Modi, former President Pranab Mukherjee and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had visited Palestine in October 2015 and January 2016 respectively.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Palestine: All you need to know

Rahul Gandhi on Saturday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for running the country by looking just in the rear view mirror, &quot;which will cause accidents&quot;.

The Congress president was referring to PM Modi&#39;s criticism of the erstwhile Congress governments.

&quot;...You (Modi) drive the vehicle by just looking in the rear-view mirror, which will cause accidents. This country cannot be run by looking in the rear-view mirror,&quot; Rahul Gandhi said at a rally in Karnataka&#39;s Hosapet ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the state.

The Congress president advised the prime minister &quot;to learn governance&quot; from state chief minister Siddaramaiah &quot;who runs the government looking forward&quot;.

Also read - <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-gave-rafale-contract-to-his-friend-rahul-gandhi-32416">PM Modi gave Rafale contract to his friend: Rahul Gandhi</a> 
 
Rahul Gandhi earlier alleged that in his speech in Parliament this week which lasted for an hour, PM Modi did not speak about the burning issues such as the agrarian problem, unemployment, tribals and Dalits.

Rather, he chose to speak about the past.

&quot;Modiji, this country has not made you prime minister to talk only about the past. This country wants to know your future plans for the country,&quot; the Congress president said.

Gandhi also said Modi spoke about corruption but his party government in Karnataka had set a &quot;world record&quot; in corruption under the rule of BS Yeddyurappa, who was sacked from the post on the charge of corruption.

He promised the people that the Congress would double the amount of work it had done in the last five years if given another opportunity to govern the state.&nbsp;

The Assembly elections in Karnataka are due early this year. 
&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi today said PM Modi is running the country by looking just in the rear-view mirror, 'which will cause accidents'

Rahul Gandhi on Saturday criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for running the country by looking just in the rear view mirror, "which will cause accidents". The Congress president was referring to PM Modi's criticism of the erstwhile Congress governments. "...You (Modi) drive the vehicle by just looking in the rear-view mirror, which will cause accidents. This country cannot be run by looking in the rear-view mirror," Rahul Gandhi said at a rally in Karnataka's Hosapet ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the state. The Congress president advised the prime minister "to learn governance" from state chief minister Siddaramaiah "who runs the government looking forward". Also read - PM Modi gave Rafale contract to his friend: Rahul Gandhi Rahul Gandhi earlier alleged that in his speech in Parliament this week which lasted for an hour, PM Modi did not speak about the burning issues such as the agrarian problem, unemployment, tribals and Dalits. Rather, he chose to speak about the past. "Modiji, this country has not made you prime minister to talk only about the past. This country wants to know your future plans for the country," the Congress president said. Gandhi also said Modi spoke about corruption but his party government in Karnataka had set a "world record" in corruption under the rule of BS Yeddyurappa, who was sacked from the post on the charge of corruption. He promised the people that the Congress would double the amount of work it had done in the last five years if given another opportunity to govern the state. The Assembly elections in Karnataka are due early this year.

Modi drives by just looking in rear-view mirror: Rahul Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a four-day State visit to Palestine, the United Arab Emirates and Oman from today.

This is the first ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Palestine, and Prime Minister Modi&#39;s second visit to UAE and first to Oman. Modi will conclude his three-nation tour on February 12.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on three nation visit to Palestine, Oman and the UAE. <a href="https://t.co/HhTYMAu7Ld">pic.twitter.com/HhTYMAu7Ld</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961854456055738368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&#39;&#39;Prime Minister of India will be on a State visit to Palestine, UAE and Oman from 9-12 February 2018. This will be the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Palestine, and Prime Minister Modi&#39;s second visit to UAE and first to Oman,&#39;&#39;&#39; the MEA said in a statement earlier.&nbsp;

During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold discussions on matters of mutual interest with the leaders of the three countries, apart from participating in other events.

Prime Minister would be addressing the Sixth World Government Summit being held in Dubai at which India has been extended &#39;Guest of Honour&#39; status.

He will also meet the Indian community in UAE and Oman.

During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold discussions on matters of mutual interest with the leaders of the three countries, apart from participating in other events.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a four-day State visit to Palestine, the United Arab Emirates and Oman from today. This is the first ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Palestine, and Prime Minister Modi's second visit to UAE and first to Oman. Modi will conclude his three-nation tour on February 12. Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on three nation visit to Palestine, Oman and the UAE. pic.twitter.com/HhTYMAu7Ld — ANI (@ANI) February 9, 2018 × ''Prime Minister of India will be on a State visit to Palestine, UAE and Oman from 9-12 February 2018. This will be the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Palestine, and Prime Minister Modi's second visit to UAE and first to Oman,''' the MEA said in a statement earlier. During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold discussions on matters of mutual interest with the leaders of the three countries, apart from participating in other events. Prime Minister would be addressing the Sixth World Government Summit being held in Dubai at which India has been extended 'Guest of Honour' status. He will also meet the Indian community in UAE and Oman.

PM Modi begins 4-day visit to Palestine, UAE  and Oman

In order to&nbsp;help students appearing for exams relieve the stress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding a unique &#39;Pariksha Pe Charcha&#39; programme on February 16.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister will connect with lakhs of students from thousands of schools across the country on the occasion&nbsp;and&nbsp;discuss exam-related issues through a video conference from Delhi&#39;s Talkatora Stadium at 11:00am.

Students can also interact with Prime Minister Modi via the Narendra Modi app, the MyGov website, or through social media by using the hashtag #ExamWarriors.

In order to reach out to the students and prepare them to face the difficulties ahead of their exams, PM Modi has also penned a book, &#39;Exam Warriors&#39; that is available in bookstores for Rs 100.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Prime Minister will connect with lakhs of students and thousands of schools across the country, and discuss exam-related issues through a video conference from Delhi's Talkatora Stadium at 11:00 am.

In order to help students appearing for exams relieve the stress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding a unique 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' programme on February 16. The Prime Minister will connect with lakhs of students from thousands of schools across the country on the occasion and discuss exam-related issues through a video conference from Delhi's Talkatora Stadium at 11:00am. Students can also interact with Prime Minister Modi via the Narendra Modi app, the MyGov website, or through social media by using the hashtag #ExamWarriors. In order to reach out to the students and prepare them to face the difficulties ahead of their exams, PM Modi has also penned a book, 'Exam Warriors' that is available in bookstores for Rs 100.

PM Modi to hold 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' on Feb 16

Sonia Gandhi has said that his son Rahul, who took over ar Congress president in December, is her boss too.

&quot;We have a new Congress president and on your behalf and my own I wish him all the best. He is now my boss too. Let there be no doubt about that,&quot; she said at the party&#39;s parliamentary party meeting on Thursday.

Sounding an upbeat note, Sonia told party MPs to work with dedication, loyalty and enthusiasm with Rahul Gandhi to strengthen the party.

Seventy-one-year-old Sonia served as Congress president for nearly two decades, but has taken a backseat now.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-meets-party-delegation-at-aicc-headqurters-32079">Also Read: Rahul Gandhi meets party delegation at AICC headquarters</a>

She also said that the process to revive the party&#39;s fortunes had begun and she would work with &quot;like-minded parties&quot; to ensure the BJP&#39;s defeat in the next elections.

&quot;We performed very creditably under tough circumstances in Gujarat and recent by-election results in Rajasthan were huge. This shows winds of change are coming. I am sure Karnataka too will underline resurgence of Congress,&quot; Sonia Gandhi said lauding party workers&#39; efforts in the recently-held Gujarat assembly elections.

Attacking the Centre, Sonia said that government indulges in &#39;maximum publicity, minimum government&#39; and &#39;maximum marketing, minimum delivery&#39;.

&quot;It has been almost 4 years since this government came to power. This has been a period in which institutions like Parliament, judiciary, media and civil society have come under assault. Investigative agencies have been let loose against political opponents,&quot; she said.

She had slammed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-continues-attack-on-opposition-says-congress-mukt-bharat-was-gandhis-idea-32115">PM Modi&#39;s hard hitting speech</a> in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday asserting there was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-has-not-said-anything-new-says-sonia-gandhi-32088">&quot;nothing new&quot; in what he said</a>.

&quot;People of India want to know what the PM will do about jobs,&quot; she said while taking a dig at PM Modi.

PM Modi <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-takes-on-opposition-during-parliament-speech-highlights-32083">during an address to Parliament</a> on the motion of thanks to the President on the Budget had said his government was faster than the UPA in implementing infrastructure projects.

The PM repeatedly attacked the Congress saying the party should rise above &quot;chest-thumping&quot;, adding that the Congress takes &quot;credit&quot; for NDA&#39;s projects.

Seventy-one-year-old Sonia served as Congress president for nearly two decades, but has taken a backseat now.

Sonia Gandhi has said that his son Rahul, who took over ar Congress president in December, is her boss too. "We have a new Congress president and on your behalf and my own I wish him all the best. He is now my boss too. Let there be no doubt about that," she said at the party's parliamentary party meeting on Thursday. Sounding an upbeat note, Sonia told party MPs to work with dedication, loyalty and enthusiasm with Rahul Gandhi to strengthen the party. Seventy-one-year-old Sonia served as Congress president for nearly two decades, but has taken a backseat now. Also Read: Rahul Gandhi meets party delegation at AICC headquarters She also said that the process to revive the party's fortunes had begun and she would work with "like-minded parties" to ensure the BJP's defeat in the next elections. "We performed very creditably under tough circumstances in Gujarat and recent by-election results in Rajasthan were huge. This shows winds of change are coming. I am sure Karnataka too will underline resurgence of Congress," Sonia Gandhi said lauding party workers' efforts in the recently-held Gujarat assembly elections. Attacking the Centre, Sonia said that government indulges in 'maximum publicity, minimum government' and 'maximum marketing, minimum delivery'. "It has been almost 4 years since this government came to power. This has been a period in which institutions like Parliament, judiciary, media and civil society have come under assault. Investigative agencies have been let loose against political opponents," she said. She had slammed PM Modi's hard hitting speech in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday asserting there was "nothing new" in what he said. "People of India want to know what the PM will do about jobs," she said while taking a dig at PM Modi. PM Modi during an address to Parliament on the motion of thanks to the President on the Budget had said his government was faster than the UPA in implementing infrastructure projects. The PM repeatedly attacked the Congress saying the party should rise above "chest-thumping", adding that the Congress takes "credit" for NDA's projects.

Rahul now my boss too, let there be no doubt: Sonia Gandhi

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi today saying that he would be thankful if the PM followed 12th-century social reformer Basavanna&#39;s teachings rather than just remembering him.

&quot;PM Narendra Modi, it was good of you to have remembered me in the Parliament today. I am glad you also remembered Basavanna,&quot; Siddaramaiah tweeted.

&quot;Basava said &quot;those with wealth will build temples; what do I do, a poor man? Kannadigas will thank you&nbsp;sir, if you could follow Basavanna&#39;s teachings,&quot; read Siddaramaiah&#39;s tweet.&nbsp;

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ರವರೆ 
It was good of you to have remembered me in the Parliament today. I am glad you also remembered Basavanna. 
 
Basava said &ldquo;those with wealth will build temples; what do I do a poor man?&rdquo; 
 
Kannadigas will thank you sir if you could follow Basavanna&rsquo;s teachings.
&mdash; Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/961208107324993539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi targetted the Congress earlier today in Lok Sabha. He lashed out at the Congress for claiming credit to Jawaharlal Nehru for establishing democracy in the country.

PM Modi delivered his motion of thanks to President today. He noted that in the 12th century, during Jagadguru Basaveshwara&#39;s time, work had begun in the country to establish democracy.

&quot;Kharge Ji, you come from Karnataka, at the most, you may get a place to sit here by showing devotion towards one&#39;s family after Karnataka elections, but don&#39;t insult Jagadguru? Basaveshwara,&quot; he addressed Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Mallikarjuna Kharge in the parliament today.

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I am glad PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> is talking about corruption. I now invite him to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WalktheTalk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WalktheTalk</a> . For a start can you 
1. Appoint Lok Pal 
2. Investigate <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JudgeLoya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JudgeLoya</a> &lsquo;s death 
3. Investigate the astronomical rise of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jayshah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jayshah</a> 
4. Appoint an untainted person as your CM candidate ?
&mdash; Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) <a href="https://twitter.com/siddaramaiah/status/960740273151250432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While speaking at a conference in the poll-bound state, Karnataka, the state chief minister Siddaramaiah recently noted that Prime minister Narendra Modi has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-has-hurt-pride-of-kannadigas-siddaramaiah-31853">hurt the pride of Kannadigas</a>.

He said, &quot; PM has hurt pride of Kannadigas by uttering lies about the state&quot;.

Siddaramaiah has often taken to Twitter and engaged in a&nbsp;war of words with PM Modi and leaders like Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi targetted the Congress earlier today in Lok Sabha

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi today saying that he would be thankful if the PM followed 12th-century social reformer Basavanna's teachings rather than just remembering him. "PM Narendra Modi, it was good of you to have remembered me in the Parliament today. I am glad you also remembered Basavanna," Siddaramaiah tweeted. "Basava said "those with wealth will build temples; what do I do, a poor man? Kannadigas will thank you sir, if you could follow Basavanna's teachings," read Siddaramaiah's tweet. PM @narendramodi ರವರೆ It was good of you to have remembered me in the Parliament today. I am glad you also remembered Basavanna. Basava said “those with wealth will build temples; what do I do a poor man?” Kannadigas will thank you sir if you could follow Basavanna’s teachings. — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) February 7, 2018 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi targetted the Congress earlier today in Lok Sabha. He lashed out at the Congress for claiming credit to Jawaharlal Nehru for establishing democracy in the country. PM Modi delivered his motion of thanks to President today. He noted that in the 12th century, during Jagadguru Basaveshwara's time, work had begun in the country to establish democracy. "Kharge Ji, you come from Karnataka, at the most, you may get a place to sit here by showing devotion towards one's family after Karnataka elections, but don't insult Jagadguru? Basaveshwara," he addressed Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha, Mallikarjuna Kharge in the parliament today. I am glad PM @narendramodi is talking about corruption. I now invite him to #WalktheTalk . For a start can you 1. Appoint Lok Pal 2. Investigate #JudgeLoya ‘s death 3. Investigate the astronomical rise of #Jayshah 4. Appoint an untainted person as your CM candidate ? — Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) February 6, 2018 × While speaking at a conference in the poll-bound state, Karnataka, the state chief minister Siddaramaiah recently noted that Prime minister Narendra Modi has hurt the pride of Kannadigas. He said, " PM has hurt pride of Kannadigas by uttering lies about the state". Siddaramaiah has often taken to Twitter and engaged in a war of words with PM Modi and leaders like Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Don't only recite but also follow Basavanna's teachings: Siddaramaiah to PM Modi 

The Government of India on Wednesday gave detailed clarification on the Rafale deal controversy and said the opposition is misleading the country.

On Tuesday, the Congress posed eight questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the deal.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Prime Minister personally went to Paris and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-alleges-scam-in-rafale-deal-32007" target="_blank">changed the deal</a>.

The Centre said it was issuing clarification over the 2016 Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) to procure 36 Rafale aircraft in fly-away condition from France because the opposition was misleading nation on a serious matter of national security.

&quot;In another effort to twist facts, the Government is asked why it did not conduct negotiations with a particular company representing a competing fighter aircraft. It seems to have been conveniently forgotten that the then Government itself had rejected that company&#39;s unsolicited offer made days after closure of the bid process, declared Rafale (DA) as the L1 bidder and had commenced negotiations with it in February 2012,&quot; the Centre said in a statement.

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<h5>In another effort to twist facts, the Government is asked why it did not conduct negotiations with a particular company representing a competing fighter aircraft. It seems to have been conveniently forgotten that the then Government itself had rejected that company&#39;s unsolicited offer made days after closure of the bid process, declared Rafale (DA) as the L1 bidder and had commenced negotiations with it in February 2012,&#39; the Centre said in a statement</h5>
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<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=In another effort to twist facts, the Government is asked why it did not conduct negotiations with a particular company representing a competing fighter aircraft. It seems to have been conveniently forgotten that the then Government itself had rejected that company's unsolicited offer made days after closure of the bid process, declared Rafale (DA) as the L1 bidder and had commenced negotiations with it in February 2012,' the Centre said in a statement" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
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The Government of India further termed the demand to disclose details and value of the Rafale aircraft as &quot;unrealistic&quot;.

&quot;The demand that the Government disclose the details and value of the contract for the Rafale aircraft contracted in 2016 is unrealistic. [In keeping with confidentiality requirements, the UPA Government had also expressed its inability to disclose the price of various defence procurements, including in its responses to Parliament Questions],&quot; the statement said.

The Centre also said the Opposition&#39;s demand to disclose exact item-wise cost and other information will impact military preparedness and compromise national security.

&quot;The approximate acquisition cost of the Rafale aircraft has already been provided to the Parliament. Provision of exact item-wise cost and other information will reveal, inter alia, details regarding the various customizations and weapons systems specially designed to augment the effectiveness and lethality of the assets, impact our military preparedness and compromise our national security,&quot; said the Union Government.

It added that &quot;such details would also come under the ambit of the security agreement signed in 2008. Thus, in not revealing the item-wise details of the contract, the Government is merely following in letter and spirit the confidentiality provisions of a bilateral India-France Agreement of 2008 signed by the previous Government&quot;.

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government also said its deal is much better than that of previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government.

&quot;The deal secured by the Government is better in terms of capability, price, equipment, delivery, maintenance, training, etc., than that notionally negotiated by the then Government in a process it could not conclude in ten years. Moreover, the present Government completed these negotiations in just about one year,&quot; said the NDA government.

The government also stressed that 36 Rafale aircrafts were procured to meet the urgent need of the Indian Air Force strictly in accordance with the Defence Procurement Procedure.

&quot;The procurement of 36 Rafale aircraft to meet the urgent need of the IAF is strictly in accordance with the Defence Procurement Procedure in all aspects including mandating, conducting and monitoring of negotiations and seeking all necessary approvals, including that of the Cabinet Committee on Security, before entering into the IGA. The aircraft had already been evaluated successfully by IAF during 2009-10,&quot; said the statement.

On the issue of transfer of technology, the government said, &quot;It may also be noted that contrary to the impression sought, to be created by the Opposition, in the earlier proposal to procure Rafale, which ended in a stalemate, there was no provision for transfer of technology but only to manufacture under licence. The Government was unable to agree on the terms for even that in its negotiations with the vendor, resulting in the long-drawn exercise under the earlier Government ultimately turning futile.&quot;

Reacting to the Congress allegation on why an Indian private company with zero experience in aviation was chosen as an offset partner to manufacture Rafale jets, the MoD said no offset partners has been selected so far.

&quot;Further, no Indian Offset Partner for the 2016 deal for 36 Rafale Aircraft has been so far selected by the vendor (DA) because as per the applicable guidelines, DA is free to select the Indian Offset Partners and provide their details at the time of seeking offset credits, or one year prior to discharge of offset obligation,&quot; it said. (ANI)

Congress President Rahul Gandhi had on Tuesday alleged a 'scam' in the deal

The Government of India on Wednesday gave detailed clarification on the Rafale deal controversy and said the opposition is misleading the country. On Tuesday, the Congress posed eight questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the deal. Congress President Rahul Gandhi alleged that the Prime Minister personally went to Paris and changed the deal. The Centre said it was issuing clarification over the 2016 Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) to procure 36 Rafale aircraft in fly-away condition from France because the opposition was misleading nation on a serious matter of national security. "In another effort to twist facts, the Government is asked why it did not conduct negotiations with a particular company representing a competing fighter aircraft. It seems to have been conveniently forgotten that the then Government itself had rejected that company's unsolicited offer made days after closure of the bid process, declared Rafale (DA) as the L1 bidder and had commenced negotiations with it in February 2012," the Centre said in a statement. In another effort to twist facts, the Government is asked why it did not conduct negotiations with a particular company representing a competing fighter aircraft. It seems to have been conveniently forgotten that the then Government itself had rejected that company's unsolicited offer made days after closure of the bid process, declared Rafale (DA) as the L1 bidder and had commenced negotiations with it in February 2012,' the Centre said in a statement × The Government of India further termed the demand to disclose details and value of the Rafale aircraft as "unrealistic". "The demand that the Government disclose the details and value of the contract for the Rafale aircraft contracted in 2016 is unrealistic. [In keeping with confidentiality requirements, the UPA Government had also expressed its inability to disclose the price of various defence procurements, including in its responses to Parliament Questions]," the statement said. The Centre also said the Opposition's demand to disclose exact item-wise cost and other information will impact military preparedness and compromise national security. "The approximate acquisition cost of the Rafale aircraft has already been provided to the Parliament. Provision of exact item-wise cost and other information will reveal, inter alia, details regarding the various customizations and weapons systems specially designed to augment the effectiveness and lethality of the assets, impact our military preparedness and compromise our national security," said the Union Government. It added that "such details would also come under the ambit of the security agreement signed in 2008. Thus, in not revealing the item-wise details of the contract, the Government is merely following in letter and spirit the confidentiality provisions of a bilateral India-France Agreement of 2008 signed by the previous Government". The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government also said its deal is much better than that of previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. "The deal secured by the Government is better in terms of capability, price, equipment, delivery, maintenance, training, etc., than that notionally negotiated by the then Government in a process it could not conclude in ten years. Moreover, the present Government completed these negotiations in just about one year," said the NDA government. The government also stressed that 36 Rafale aircrafts were procured to meet the urgent need of the Indian Air Force strictly in accordance with the Defence Procurement Procedure. "The procurement of 36 Rafale aircraft to meet the urgent need of the IAF is strictly in accordance with the Defence Procurement Procedure in all aspects including mandating, conducting and monitoring of negotiations and seeking all necessary approvals, including that of the Cabinet Committee on Security, before entering into the IGA. The aircraft had already been evaluated successfully by IAF during 2009-10," said the statement. On the issue of transfer of technology, the government said, "It may also be noted that contrary to the impression sought, to be created by the Opposition, in the earlier proposal to procure Rafale, which ended in a stalemate, there was no provision for transfer of technology but only to manufacture under licence. The Government was unable to agree on the terms for even that in its negotiations with the vendor, resulting in the long-drawn exercise under the earlier Government ultimately turning futile." Reacting to the Congress allegation on why an Indian private company with zero experience in aviation was chosen as an offset partner to manufacture Rafale jets, the MoD said no offset partners has been selected so far. "Further, no Indian Offset Partner for the 2016 deal for 36 Rafale Aircraft has been so far selected by the vendor (DA) because as per the applicable guidelines, DA is free to select the Indian Offset Partners and provide their details at the time of seeking offset credits, or one year prior to discharge of offset obligation," it said. (ANI)

Opposition misleading country over Rafale deal: Government

In a second mammoth talk in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi continued his attack on the Congress.&nbsp;

Modi, who had earlier spoken in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-heckles-pm-modi-as-he-speaks-in-lok-sabha-32078" target="_blank">Lok Sabha for over two hours</a>, spoke in the Rajya Sabha this time for over an hour. The first speech too had been vitriolic in content -- and was interrupted again --&nbsp;with Modi saying it was not Nehru who had won India its independence (like the Congress likes to keep reminding us).&nbsp;

This time Modi said the idea of a Congress-mukt Bharat was Gandhiji&#39;s:&nbsp;

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Aapko Gandhi Ji wala Bharat chahaiye mujhe bhi Gandhi Ji wala Bharat chahiye. Gandhi Ji ne kaha tha ab aazaadi mil gayi ab Congress ki zaroorat nahi hai: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha <a href="https://t.co/Qw1jj8DY2P">pic.twitter.com/Qw1jj8DY2P</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961187854566207488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Look at what all you mocked- Swachh Bharat, Make in India, surgical strikes, Yoga Day. You are free to mock as you please but why are you blocking the bill for OBC Commission? Why are you blocking Triple Talaq Bill. Are you not sensitive to the aspirations of OBCs?: PM Modi <a href="https://t.co/rG169fwcdQ">pic.twitter.com/rG169fwcdQ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961197451519684608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Modi took on the Congress for their opposition to the triple talaq bill.

You say there will be no one to look after the family of a Muslim man who uses triple talaq to leave his wife and is then jailed, said Modi. But what happens when a Hindu man gets married for a second time is jailed?&nbsp;Who will look after his family? &nbsp;

Modi said the opposition was obsessed with him but that in in criticising him, they cross the line.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-takes-on-opposition-during-parliament-speech-highlights-32083" target="_blank">PM Modi takes on opposition during Parliament speech:</a> Top 20 highlights

Mock me, Modi said, mock the BJP -- but don&#39;t hurt India.&nbsp;

&quot;BJP ki burai karte karte aap Bharat ki burai karne lag jaate hain. Modi par hamla bolte bolte aap Hindustan par hamla bolne lag jaate hain,&quot; Modi said.&nbsp;

Congress culture to take credit, refuse responsibility

It is the Congress&#39; culture to take credit, Modi said.&nbsp;

​&quot;You complain that I don&#39;t give enough credit to your party and its legacy. Well, starting projects and then putting them on the backburner is your legacy and I give you credit for it,&quot; Modi said.&nbsp;

Modi&#39;s speech in the Rajya Sabha was interrupted by Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury.&nbsp;

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Sabhapati Ji meri aapse vinti hai Renuka Ji ko kuch mat kahiye. Ramayan serial ke baad aisi hansi sunne ka saubhagya aaj jaake mila hai: PM Modi on Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury laughing during his speech in Rajya Sabha
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961192558591430657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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We were waiting for the PM to make some serious response to the points raised by the opposition, he said nothing. Only Bhashan, no action, no vision so after 15 minutes TMC staged a walkout from Rajya Sabha while the PM was speaking : Derek O&#39;Brien, Trinamool Congress MP <a href="https://t.co/OAz2BbZuuL">pic.twitter.com/OAz2BbZuuL</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961206886929518598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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बहुत लम्बी थी साहेब की बात 
सदन में दिन को बता दिया रात 
 
अपनी नाकामियों पर डाले पर्दे 
अफसोस भाषण से गायब थे देश के मुद्दे 
 
प्रधानमंत्रीजी चुप्पी कब तोड़ेंगे 
राफेल डील पर आखिर कब बोलेंगे?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PradhanMantriJawabDo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PradhanMantriJawabDo</a>
&mdash; Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfRG/status/961194197683462144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A visibly-angry Modi&#39;s speech in the Lok Sabha had also been interrupted by the Opposition.&nbsp;

Simulatenous elections

Modi again brought up the idea of simulatenous general and state elections. &quot;Let us have a constructive discussion,&quot; he said.&nbsp;

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You said we are Name Changers and not Game Changers but if you notice our mode of operation and working pattern you will realise we are Aim Changers. We plan our action, set the road map so that we take the nation on the path to development: PM Modi <a href="https://t.co/SFyMzRmgee">pic.twitter.com/SFyMzRmgee</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961189054476963841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I have always said that for the nation&#39;s development so far, all the previous govt&#39;s have made a contribution: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha <a href="https://t.co/p5wWy7dyCr">pic.twitter.com/p5wWy7dyCr</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/961189440478728192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He added that the Congress had ignored Sardar Patel&#39; for years, and had invoked his memory only for political gain.&nbsp;&nbsp;

And he added that it was the BJP which first thought up the idea of Aadhaar. &quot;Congress keeps saying we brought Aadhaar. Let me remind them about a debate in the Rajya Sabha in 1998 and what LK Advani Ji said. It is in his speech that you will find the genesis of Aadhaar,&quot; he said.

After having spoken in the Lok Sabha, Modi was speaking in the Rajya Sabha

In a second mammoth talk in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi continued his attack on the Congress. Modi, who had earlier spoken in the Lok Sabha for over two hours, spoke in the Rajya Sabha this time for over an hour. The first speech too had been vitriolic in content -- and was interrupted again -- with Modi saying it was not Nehru who had won India its independence (like the Congress likes to keep reminding us). This time Modi said the idea of a Congress-mukt Bharat was Gandhiji's: Aapko Gandhi Ji wala Bharat chahaiye mujhe bhi Gandhi Ji wala Bharat chahiye. Gandhi Ji ne kaha tha ab aazaadi mil gayi ab Congress ki zaroorat nahi hai: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha pic.twitter.com/Qw1jj8DY2P — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × Look at what all you mocked- Swachh Bharat, Make in India, surgical strikes, Yoga Day. You are free to mock as you please but why are you blocking the bill for OBC Commission? Why are you blocking Triple Talaq Bill. Are you not sensitive to the aspirations of OBCs?: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/rG169fwcdQ — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × Modi took on the Congress for their opposition to the triple talaq bill. You say there will be no one to look after the family of a Muslim man who uses triple talaq to leave his wife and is then jailed, said Modi. But what happens when a Hindu man gets married for a second time is jailed? Who will look after his family? Modi said the opposition was obsessed with him but that in in criticising him, they cross the line. PM Modi takes on opposition during Parliament speech: Top 20 highlights Mock me, Modi said, mock the BJP -- but don't hurt India. "BJP ki burai karte karte aap Bharat ki burai karne lag jaate hain. Modi par hamla bolte bolte aap Hindustan par hamla bolne lag jaate hain," Modi said. Congress culture to take credit, refuse responsibility It is the Congress' culture to take credit, Modi said. "You complain that I don't give enough credit to your party and its legacy. Well, starting projects and then putting them on the backburner is your legacy and I give you credit for it," Modi said. Modi's speech in the Rajya Sabha was interrupted by Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury. Sabhapati Ji meri aapse vinti hai Renuka Ji ko kuch mat kahiye. Ramayan serial ke baad aisi hansi sunne ka saubhagya aaj jaake mila hai: PM Modi on Congress MP Renuka Chowdhury laughing during his speech in Rajya Sabha — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × We were waiting for the PM to make some serious response to the points raised by the opposition, he said nothing. Only Bhashan, no action, no vision so after 15 minutes TMC staged a walkout from Rajya Sabha while the PM was speaking : Derek O'Brien, Trinamool Congress MP pic.twitter.com/OAz2BbZuuL — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × बहुत लम्बी थी साहेब की बात सदन में दिन को बता दिया रात अपनी नाकामियों पर डाले पर्दे अफसोस भाषण से गायब थे देश के मुद्दे प्रधानमंत्रीजी चुप्पी कब तोड़ेंगे राफेल डील पर आखिर कब बोलेंगे?#PradhanMantriJawabDo — Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 7, 2018 × A visibly-angry Modi's speech in the Lok Sabha had also been interrupted by the Opposition. Simulatenous elections Modi again brought up the idea of simulatenous general and state elections. "Let us have a constructive discussion," he said. You said we are Name Changers and not Game Changers but if you notice our mode of operation and working pattern you will realise we are Aim Changers. We plan our action, set the road map so that we take the nation on the path to development: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/SFyMzRmgee — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × I have always said that for the nation's development so far, all the previous govt's have made a contribution: PM Narendra Modi in Rajya Sabha pic.twitter.com/p5wWy7dyCr — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2018 × He added that the Congress had ignored Sardar Patel' for years, and had invoked his memory only for political gain. And he added that it was the BJP which first thought up the idea of Aadhaar. "Congress keeps saying we brought Aadhaar. Let me remind them about a debate in the Rajya Sabha in 1998 and what LK Advani Ji said. It is in his speech that you will find the genesis of Aadhaar," he said.

Modi continues attack on opposition, says Congress-mukt Bharat was Gandhi's idea

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-continues-attack-on-opposition-says-congress-mukt-bharat-was-gandhis-idea-32115">Modi continues attack on opposition, says Congress-</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-continues-attack-on-opposition-says-congress-mukt-bharat-was-gandhis-idea-32115">mukt</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-continues-attack-on-opposition-says-congress-mukt-bharat-was-gandhis-idea-32115"> Bharat was Gandhi&#39;s idea</a>

In a second mammoth talk in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi continued his attack on the Congress.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-warns-against-military-intervention-in-maldives-32108">China warns against military intervention in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-warns-against-military-intervention-in-maldives-32108">Maldives</a>

China today warned against any military intervention in the Maldives, saying such a move would further complicate the situation, amid repeated calls for India&#39;s military intervention by exiled former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed to resolve the political crisis.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sachin-tendulkar-at-auto-expo-2018-my-love-for-cars-began-at-three-32112">Sachin at Auto Expo 2018: My love for cars began at age three</a>

Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar spoke about his another passion other than cricket, cars During an Auto Expo 2018 in Delhi on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-top-parties-reach-deal-on-merkel-coalition-32099">Germany&#39;s top parties &#39;reach deal&#39; on Merkel coalition</a>

Chancellor Angela Merkel&#39;s conservatives and the Social Democrats sealed a deal Wednesday on a new coalition, officials close to the talks said, potentially ending four months of political standstill in Europe&#39;s top economy.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/auto-expo-2018-honda-india-unveils-x-blade-motorcycle-10-new-models-32102">Auto Expo 2018: Honda India unveils X-Blade motorcycle, 10 other new models&nbsp;</a>

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. today unveiled its most extensive product line-up with 11 new models at the ongoing 14th Auto Expo 2018. &nbsp;

Modi continues attack on opposition, says Congress-mukt Bharat was Gandhi's idea In a second mammoth talk in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi continued his attack on the Congress. China warns against military intervention in Maldives China today warned against any military intervention in the Maldives, saying such a move would further complicate the situation, amid repeated calls for India's military intervention by exiled former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed to resolve the political crisis. Sachin at Auto Expo 2018: My love for cars began at age three Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar spoke about his another passion other than cricket, cars During an Auto Expo 2018 in Delhi on Wednesday. Germany's top parties 'reach deal' on Merkel coalition Chancellor Angela Merkel's conservatives and the Social Democrats sealed a deal Wednesday on a new coalition, officials close to the talks said, potentially ending four months of political standstill in Europe's top economy. Auto Expo 2018: Honda India unveils X-Blade motorcycle, 10 other new models Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. today unveiled its most extensive product line-up with 11 new models at the ongoing 14th Auto Expo 2018.

WION Evening News Brief, February 7, 2018

After all its efforts at trying to shout down Prime Minister Narendra Modi while he delivered his speech in Parliament a few hours ago, the Congress had nothing to show but a sore throat. The more its members ranted, the more Modi revelled in tearing its arguments to pieces. And if the Prime Minister, in the immediate analysis, appeared to be the winner, it is because the Congress just did not understand one basic fact: That Modi was not really addressing the Opposition but speaking to constituents across the country, who matter electorally.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Prime Minister&rsquo;s strategy was interesting. He was aggressive in the Lok Sabha where his party had the upper hand, taking swipes across a wide arc &mdash; from Congress&rsquo;s dynasty to that party&rsquo;s failures in governance to the various schemes that his Government had initiated for public welfare. But later in the Rajya Sabha, Modi reached out to his rivals, seeking constructive feedback on issues relating to national projects &mdash; for instance, on the new healthcare insurance scheme. By asking them to form their own task forces which could offer suggestions to the Government as well as identify loopholes, the Prime Minister lobbed the ball into the Opposition&rsquo;s court. The idea was to send the message across to the larger audience outside Parliament that this Government was willing to listen and accommodate positive suggestions.

&nbsp;

But it would have been unrealistic to expect Prime Minister Modi to altogether resist taking swipes at the Congress. In firmly proceeding with the &lsquo;New India&rsquo; narrative which he, and his party and Government, have adopted in recent months, Modi latched on to the Congress&rsquo;s remark that the party wanted not a new India but the old India which it had left behind. Having got an opportunity on a platter, the Prime Minister dug up a slew of distasteful developments &mdash; from the Bofors scam to the Augusta Westland scandal to the massacre of Sikhs in 1980 to the Emergency &mdash; and stingingly added that all that was part of the old India which the Congress has been advocating. But the sting was in the tail: The Prime Minister said he was fully in agreement with the Congress that we must have an India that Mahatma Gandhi wanted, and reminded his rivals that the Mahatma had wanted the Congress disbanded after the country had achieved independence.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Interestingly, unlike in the Lok Sabha, the Congress heard Modi&rsquo;s speech with more attention in the other House, except during the later stage. There were few half-hearted attempts from the Opposition to disrupt the proceedings but nothing came from them. The Prime Minister listed various projects which were initiated but not followed through by the previous Congress regimes, and claimed that such languishing projects had been given a fresh lease of life by his Government. Given his penchant for catchy one-liners, he said that his Government&rsquo;s focus is on the outcome and not just on (funds) outlay.

&nbsp;

It must be understood that the Prime Minister&rsquo;s response, which was on the Motion of Thanks to the President&rsquo;s address to Parliament, was both a formality and an occasion for Modi to push forth his Government&rsquo;s achievements and expose what he believed was the Opposition&rsquo;s failures. Similarly, the opposition parties used the opportunity to put the Government in the dock. A senior Congress leader said Modi&rsquo;s speech in the Lok Sabha was unbecoming of the occasion; that the response to the Motion of Thanks must have sobriety. There can be a debate on this contention, but it was also inappropriate for the Congress to heckle the Prime Minister throughout his address.

&nbsp;

And yet, there is no doubting that both the Prime Minister and his rivals are jostling for electoral advantage. Three northeastern States vote later this year. But the more important election will be in Karnataka three months from now, and later in the year in three States the BJP presently rules &mdash; Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. If Modi has yet again spoken in favour of the anti-instant triple divorce Bill, the Congress has sought to dismiss the Government&rsquo;s claims of achievement as empty talk. If the Prime Minister reminds the people of holistic and time-bound development projects that his Government has initiated, the Congress has emphasised that its regimes had begun most such projects.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

It does appear from the repeated manner in which Modi raised the Bofors controversy in the Rajya Sabha, that the BJP and its allies could possibly revive the matter in electoral campaigns, and even more so when media reports have it that the Central Bureau of Investigation has decided to reopen the case after the court&rsquo;s clearance.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The question now remains: To what extent will the Prime Minister&rsquo;s address in Parliament help the BJP on the ground? The party won by a reduced margin in Gujarat, lost three recent by-polls in Rajasthan, and is facing serious rural discontent. The Union Budget with its emphasis on rural development sought to tackle the last mentioned problem. The Congress&rsquo;s challenge is to effectively discredit the Prime Minister&rsquo;s speech and build upon the momentum it has gained in recent months. Meanwhile, the battle lines are drawn and it would now be futile to expect the ruling dispensation and the Congress-led Opposition to see eye to eye on issues that are of national import.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

PM Modi was not really addressing the Opposition but speaking to constituents across the country, who matter electorally.

After all its efforts at trying to shout down Prime Minister Narendra Modi while he delivered his speech in Parliament a few hours ago, the Congress had nothing to show but a sore throat. The more its members ranted, the more Modi revelled in tearing its arguments to pieces. And if the Prime Minister, in the immediate analysis, appeared to be the winner, it is because the Congress just did not understand one basic fact: That Modi was not really addressing the Opposition but speaking to constituents across the country, who matter electorally. The Prime Minister’s strategy was interesting. He was aggressive in the Lok Sabha where his party had the upper hand, taking swipes across a wide arc — from Congress’s dynasty to that party’s failures in governance to the various schemes that his Government had initiated for public welfare. But later in the Rajya Sabha, Modi reached out to his rivals, seeking constructive feedback on issues relating to national projects — for instance, on the new healthcare insurance scheme. By asking them to form their own task forces which could offer suggestions to the Government as well as identify loopholes, the Prime Minister lobbed the ball into the Opposition’s court. The idea was to send the message across to the larger audience outside Parliament that this Government was willing to listen and accommodate positive suggestions. But it would have been unrealistic to expect Prime Minister Modi to altogether resist taking swipes at the Congress. In firmly proceeding with the ‘New India’ narrative which he, and his party and Government, have adopted in recent months, Modi latched on to the Congress’s remark that the party wanted not a new India but the old India which it had left behind. Having got an opportunity on a platter, the Prime Minister dug up a slew of distasteful developments — from the Bofors scam to the Augusta Westland scandal to the massacre of Sikhs in 1980 to the Emergency — and stingingly added that all that was part of the old India which the Congress has been advocating. But the sting was in the tail: The Prime Minister said he was fully in agreement with the Congress that we must have an India that Mahatma Gandhi wanted, and reminded his rivals that the Mahatma had wanted the Congress disbanded after the country had achieved independence. Interestingly, unlike in the Lok Sabha, the Congress heard Modi’s speech with more attention in the other House, except during the later stage. There were few half-hearted attempts from the Opposition to disrupt the proceedings but nothing came from them. The Prime Minister listed various projects which were initiated but not followed through by the previous Congress regimes, and claimed that such languishing projects had been given a fresh lease of life by his Government. Given his penchant for catchy one-liners, he said that his Government’s focus is on the outcome and not just on (funds) outlay. It must be understood that the Prime Minister’s response, which was on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address to Parliament, was both a formality and an occasion for Modi to push forth his Government’s achievements and expose what he believed was the Opposition’s failures. Similarly, the opposition parties used the opportunity to put the Government in the dock. A senior Congress leader said Modi’s speech in the Lok Sabha was unbecoming of the occasion; that the response to the Motion of Thanks must have sobriety. There can be a debate on this contention, but it was also inappropriate for the Congress to heckle the Prime Minister throughout his address. And yet, there is no doubting that both the Prime Minister and his rivals are jostling for electoral advantage. Three northeastern States vote later this year. But the more important election will be in Karnataka three months from now, and later in the year in three States the BJP presently rules — Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. If Modi has yet again spoken in favour of the anti-instant triple divorce Bill, the Congress has sought to dismiss the Government’s claims of achievement as empty talk. If the Prime Minister reminds the people of holistic and time-bound development projects that his Government has initiated, the Congress has emphasised that its regimes had begun most such projects. It does appear from the repeated manner in which Modi raised the Bofors controversy in the Rajya Sabha, that the BJP and its allies could possibly revive the matter in electoral campaigns, and even more so when media reports have it that the Central Bureau of Investigation has decided to reopen the case after the court’s clearance. The question now remains: To what extent will the Prime Minister’s address in Parliament help the BJP on the ground? The party won by a reduced margin in Gujarat, lost three recent by-polls in Rajasthan, and is facing serious rural discontent. The Union Budget with its emphasis on rural development sought to tackle the last mentioned problem. The Congress’s challenge is to effectively discredit the Prime Minister’s speech and build upon the momentum it has gained in recent months. Meanwhile, the battle lines are drawn and it would now be futile to expect the ruling dispensation and the Congress-led Opposition to see eye to eye on issues that are of national import. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Not the opposition, PM Modi was addressing Indian electorates

As Prime Minister Modi stood up to speak on the motion of thanks to the President&#39;s address on the Budget, the nation, drawing from past precedents, was expecting the prime minister to discuss and reflect on the nation&#39;s economic goals, the path to be taken and the challenges involved in the process. But the prime minister was in no mood for a constructive speech. Rather, he chose to launch a frontal attack on the Congress party.&nbsp;

Modi&#39;s speech was akin to brutal bantering of an election campaign, where the sole goal usually is to tear apart the contesting candidate. But this was on the floor of the parliament and the occasion was rather a customary motion of thanks following one of the most important budgets of the recent years.&nbsp;

Why did the prime minister lose his cool? More importantly, why the entire speech targeted the Congress party by bringing in instances, such as Partition and the Kashmir, for which the blame game is going on for just too long. Hindsight is always 20-20. It is purely an exercise in rhetoric to say that Kashmir would have been all ours if Vallabh Bhai Patel had been the prime minister.&nbsp;

Advocates of strong nationalism, such as Prime Minister Modi, often like to keep faith on &quot;blood and iron&quot; policy of statesman, such as Bismarck. But the prime minister would do well to keep in mind that Bismarck succeeded in putting together a united Germany because of growing force of nationalism on the ground that favoured such a unification measure; the Prussian military could not have put together a bunch of recalcitrant states if they were unwilling. As a practitioner of politics, Modi would do well to ask himself, hand on heart, whether such willingness to join the Indian Union was visible among Kashmiris at the dawn of Indian independence.

Rather than playing the blame game with Congress over Kashmir, Prime Minister Modi would have done well to reflect on how it plans to resolve the Kashmir question. That would have constituted a constructive speech worthy of a statesman.&nbsp;

To blame Congress for the Partition is not new either. Partition historian Ayesha Jalal has shown through meticulous research, the Congress&#39;s responsibility in the Partition of India. Not agreeing to the Partition would have meant either a civil war or a weak central government. But this kind of academic debates was not what the nation was expecting. And, honestly speaking, Modi was not even logically analysing these issues or contextualising them within the current politics, he was slamming down the Congress for all our national ills.&nbsp;

He wanted to blame Congress for all the ills of the nation-state. But the nation can turn back and ask him why is this blame game necessary because what we want, rather, is a constructive approach to finding solutions to fundamental problems of poverty, security, and corruption.&nbsp;

Maybe the fact that he did not have the answers or a roadmap for these issues that led Modi to take an offensive stance. After all, who does not know, offense is the best defense.

Modi has a lot to worry about. The Budget of 2018 has not pleased anybody. Even launching of the so-called world&#39;s largest healthcare system is raising concerns. Experts are pointing out that this not what an universal healthcare should look like because the government of India, in this case, will be spending public money to pay off&nbsp;insurance agencies, both private and public.&nbsp;&nbsp;

There are doubts pertaining the provisions announced for the agricultural sector. Unemployment continues to be the Damocles&#39; sword hanging over the current government.&nbsp;

On GST, launched with much fanfare, the Modi government has made several compromises. The demonetisation measures have received almost a wholesale flak from experts to the common man.&nbsp;

The sheen of the win in the Uttar Pradesh election has lost much of its lustre, particularly, after the Gujarat election. And new elections are coming up in the North-Eastern states of Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland where BJP is treading very carefully. There are very crucial elections coming up in Karnataka, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Modi, in one sweeping stroke, wanted to completely discredit the Congress. From the Partition to corruption, according to PM Modi, everything marks the failure of the Congress to stand as a plausible political alternative to the BJP.

The vicious reaction of Modi is leading me to wonder if, after all, the &#39;lion chest&#39; prime minister is unsettled by the challenges he foresees in the upcoming elections. Modi&#39;s dismissive attitude towards Rahul, calling him a dynast and, therefore, not a democrat, is actually a tale-telling sign of angst in the BJP camp. Contrary to their expectations, things are not moving as smoothly.

Modi&#39;s speech today at the Lower House of the Indian Parliament did not bear the mark of a confident leader. Rather, it appeared a masked attempt to find legitimacy through discrediting of the opposition party. The Indian electorates may find out the chink developing in the armour, Mr Modi.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Modi, in one sweeping stroke, wanted to completely discredit the Congress. From the Partition to corruption, according to PM Modi, everything marks the failure of the Congress to stand as a plausible political alternative to the BJP.

As Prime Minister Modi stood up to speak on the motion of thanks to the President's address on the Budget, the nation, drawing from past precedents, was expecting the prime minister to discuss and reflect on the nation's economic goals, the path to be taken and the challenges involved in the process. But the prime minister was in no mood for a constructive speech. Rather, he chose to launch a frontal attack on the Congress party. Modi's speech was akin to brutal bantering of an election campaign, where the sole goal usually is to tear apart the contesting candidate. But this was on the floor of the parliament and the occasion was rather a customary motion of thanks following one of the most important budgets of the recent years. Why did the prime minister lose his cool? More importantly, why the entire speech targeted the Congress party by bringing in instances, such as Partition and the Kashmir, for which the blame game is going on for just too long. Hindsight is always 20-20. It is purely an exercise in rhetoric to say that Kashmir would have been all ours if Vallabh Bhai Patel had been the prime minister. Advocates of strong nationalism, such as Prime Minister Modi, often like to keep faith on "blood and iron" policy of statesman, such as Bismarck. But the prime minister would do well to keep in mind that Bismarck succeeded in putting together a united Germany because of growing force of nationalism on the ground that favoured such a unification measure; the Prussian military could not have put together a bunch of recalcitrant states if they were unwilling. As a practitioner of politics, Modi would do well to ask himself, hand on heart, whether such willingness to join the Indian Union was visible among Kashmiris at the dawn of Indian independence. Rather than playing the blame game with Congress over Kashmir, Prime Minister Modi would have done well to reflect on how it plans to resolve the Kashmir question. That would have constituted a constructive speech worthy of a statesman. To blame Congress for the Partition is not new either. Partition historian Ayesha Jalal has shown through meticulous research, the Congress's responsibility in the Partition of India. Not agreeing to the Partition would have meant either a civil war or a weak central government. But this kind of academic debates was not what the nation was expecting. And, honestly speaking, Modi was not even logically analysing these issues or contextualising them within the current politics, he was slamming down the Congress for all our national ills. He wanted to blame Congress for all the ills of the nation-state. But the nation can turn back and ask him why is this blame game necessary because what we want, rather, is a constructive approach to finding solutions to fundamental problems of poverty, security, and corruption. Maybe the fact that he did not have the answers or a roadmap for these issues that led Modi to take an offensive stance. After all, who does not know, offense is the best defense. Modi has a lot to worry about. The Budget of 2018 has not pleased anybody. Even launching of the so-called world's largest healthcare system is raising concerns. Experts are pointing out that this not what an universal healthcare should look like because the government of India, in this case, will be spending public money to pay off insurance agencies, both private and public. There are doubts pertaining the provisions announced for the agricultural sector. Unemployment continues to be the Damocles' sword hanging over the current government. On GST, launched with much fanfare, the Modi government has made several compromises. The demonetisation measures have received almost a wholesale flak from experts to the common man. The sheen of the win in the Uttar Pradesh election has lost much of its lustre, particularly, after the Gujarat election. And new elections are coming up in the North-Eastern states of Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland where BJP is treading very carefully. There are very crucial elections coming up in Karnataka, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Modi, in one sweeping stroke, wanted to completely discredit the Congress. From the Partition to corruption, according to PM Modi, everything marks the failure of the Congress to stand as a plausible political alternative to the BJP. The vicious reaction of Modi is leading me to wonder if, after all, the 'lion chest' prime minister is unsettled by the challenges he foresees in the upcoming elections. Modi's dismissive attitude towards Rahul, calling him a dynast and, therefore, not a democrat, is actually a tale-telling sign of angst in the BJP camp. Contrary to their expectations, things are not moving as smoothly. Modi's speech today at the Lower House of the Indian Parliament did not bear the mark of a confident leader. Rather, it appeared a masked attempt to find legitimacy through discrediting of the opposition party. The Indian electorates may find out the chink developing in the armour, Mr Modi. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why this Kolaveri di, Mr Modi?

India and Canada have much in common &ndash; democracy, cultural and ethnic diversity, complimentary economies, rule of law and the English language, among other attributes. The large Indian diaspora - affluent, educated and industrious - of over 1.25 million (in a country of merely 35 million people) should have, in the normal course, been instrumental in fostering great bilateral bonhomie. But that was not to be!&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There were good reasons why the Indian Prime Ministerial (Narendra Modi) visit to Canada happened after a gap of forty-two years, in April 2015. The first was the sanctions imposed by Ottawa after India&rsquo;s nuclear test in Pokhran in 1974. That issue was finally put to rest in 2010 with the conclusion of a bilateral civil nuclear cooperation agreement. A conservative government led by Stephen Harper was then in power.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The second is the &lsquo;Khalistani&rsquo; issue, which continues to bedevil the ties. Khalistani elements continue to find a safe haven in Canada, from where they engage in anti-India activities unabashedly. Incidentally, the Kanishka bombing in 1985 is still vivid in public memories. Thanks to vote bank politics, Canadian politicians have few qualms about showing up at events, which eulogise Khalistani terrorists. Indian protestations, over the decades, at all levels, have had little impact. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indians, 95 per cent of whom were Sikhs from rural Punjab, started trickling-into Vancouver, Canada in the late 19th century. They took up blue collar jobs in the lumber industry or farms. Canadian preference for highly skilled people, from the 1960s onwards, spurred Indians from across the nation to migrate.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

All the same, the Sikhs moved to Canada in numbers, some feigning political persecution in India, during the late 70s and early 80s, coinciding with the rule of Liberal Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Gradually, they developed dense pockets in Vancouver (Surrey and Abbotsford) and Toronto (Mississauga and Brampton). Consequently, they could tilt the electoral balance, in 4 to 6 federal parliamentary constituencies (called ridings in Canada). And, therein, lies the rub.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Sikhs comprise about 40 per cent of the Indian diaspora, around 350,000 of who are eligible to vote. This constitutes a significant number in Canadian politics, as the ridings are small in size. The community, generally, favours the Liberal party and, hence, is actively wooed. Non-Sikhs, on the other hand, are more widely dispersed, are not so politically active or willing to loosen their purse strings, vote on merit and are inclined more towards the Conservatives.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Sikhs have established many Gurdwaras (temples), particularly, in the Greater Toronto and Vancouver regions. Over time the hardliners have managed to wrest control of a number of them along with the sizeable offerings that they receive annually from the devotees. This has given them financial muscle and influence, which they use with impunity.

&nbsp;

Some Gurdwaras display pictures of terrorists, presented as &lsquo;martyrs&rsquo;. Processions and events are regularly organised where fiery speeches are delivered, objectionable tableaux displayed and even kids made to brandish unsheathed swords. Clearly, an attempt is afoot to radicalise the Sikh (Canadian) youth, while the state looks the other way. Gurdwara funds are being misused with some finding their way into wrong hands in India.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

It goes unsaid that an overwhelming majority of the community does not endorse the outlook or activities of these elements. Recently, Government of India&#39;s initiatives to slash the visa blacklists and reach out to the fence-sitters has helped. Many of them have since visited India and seen through the separatist propaganda.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

However, it is the continuing appearance of Canadian politicians, at radical platforms, which give the latter the oxygen to publicity. It must be said to the credit of Conservatives that they had recalibrated their stance of late. During Prime Minister Modi&rsquo;s visit in April 2015, then Prime Minister Harper had publicly stated that his government was committed to the unity and integrity of India.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The thumping Liberal victory in the October 2015 general elections has boosted the morale of the separatists. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, was present at an event in Toronto, in May last year that featured Khalistani flags and posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Earlier in April 2016, he rightly hailed the contributions of the Sikh community during the Baisakhi Day celebrations at the Parliament, but without mentioning India even once.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The stock response of the Canadian side, whenever the matter is raised, is that freedom of speech is guaranteed by their Constitution. They plead ignorance of the noxious aspects. The disposition of our Canadian friends is not likely to change, till such time as they give due weightage to ties with India and are willing, at worst, to lose a bunch of votes in a few ridings. The ball is squarely in the Canadian court.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Khalistani elements continue to find a safe haven in Canada, from where they engage in anti-India activities unabashedly.

India and Canada have much in common – democracy, cultural and ethnic diversity, complimentary economies, rule of law and the English language, among other attributes. The large Indian diaspora - affluent, educated and industrious - of over 1.25 million (in a country of merely 35 million people) should have, in the normal course, been instrumental in fostering great bilateral bonhomie. But that was not to be! There were good reasons why the Indian Prime Ministerial (Narendra Modi) visit to Canada happened after a gap of forty-two years, in April 2015. The first was the sanctions imposed by Ottawa after India’s nuclear test in Pokhran in 1974. That issue was finally put to rest in 2010 with the conclusion of a bilateral civil nuclear cooperation agreement. A conservative government led by Stephen Harper was then in power. The second is the ‘Khalistani’ issue, which continues to bedevil the ties. Khalistani elements continue to find a safe haven in Canada, from where they engage in anti-India activities unabashedly. Incidentally, the Kanishka bombing in 1985 is still vivid in public memories. Thanks to vote bank politics, Canadian politicians have few qualms about showing up at events, which eulogise Khalistani terrorists. Indian protestations, over the decades, at all levels, have had little impact. Indians, 95 per cent of whom were Sikhs from rural Punjab, started trickling-into Vancouver, Canada in the late 19th century. They took up blue collar jobs in the lumber industry or farms. Canadian preference for highly skilled people, from the 1960s onwards, spurred Indians from across the nation to migrate. All the same, the Sikhs moved to Canada in numbers, some feigning political persecution in India, during the late 70s and early 80s, coinciding with the rule of Liberal Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Gradually, they developed dense pockets in Vancouver (Surrey and Abbotsford) and Toronto (Mississauga and Brampton). Consequently, they could tilt the electoral balance, in 4 to 6 federal parliamentary constituencies (called ridings in Canada). And, therein, lies the rub. The Sikhs comprise about 40 per cent of the Indian diaspora, around 350,000 of who are eligible to vote. This constitutes a significant number in Canadian politics, as the ridings are small in size. The community, generally, favours the Liberal party and, hence, is actively wooed. Non-Sikhs, on the other hand, are more widely dispersed, are not so politically active or willing to loosen their purse strings, vote on merit and are inclined more towards the Conservatives. The Sikhs have established many Gurdwaras (temples), particularly, in the Greater Toronto and Vancouver regions. Over time the hardliners have managed to wrest control of a number of them along with the sizeable offerings that they receive annually from the devotees. This has given them financial muscle and influence, which they use with impunity. Some Gurdwaras display pictures of terrorists, presented as ‘martyrs’. Processions and events are regularly organised where fiery speeches are delivered, objectionable tableaux displayed and even kids made to brandish unsheathed swords. Clearly, an attempt is afoot to radicalise the Sikh (Canadian) youth, while the state looks the other way. Gurdwara funds are being misused with some finding their way into wrong hands in India. It goes unsaid that an overwhelming majority of the community does not endorse the outlook or activities of these elements. Recently, Government of India's initiatives to slash the visa blacklists and reach out to the fence-sitters has helped. Many of them have since visited India and seen through the separatist propaganda. However, it is the continuing appearance of Canadian politicians, at radical platforms, which give the latter the oxygen to publicity. It must be said to the credit of Conservatives that they had recalibrated their stance of late. During Prime Minister Modi’s visit in April 2015, then Prime Minister Harper had publicly stated that his government was committed to the unity and integrity of India. The thumping Liberal victory in the October 2015 general elections has boosted the morale of the separatists. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, was present at an event in Toronto, in May last year that featured Khalistani flags and posters of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. Earlier in April 2016, he rightly hailed the contributions of the Sikh community during the Baisakhi Day celebrations at the Parliament, but without mentioning India even once. The stock response of the Canadian side, whenever the matter is raised, is that freedom of speech is guaranteed by their Constitution. They plead ignorance of the noxious aspects. The disposition of our Canadian friends is not likely to change, till such time as they give due weightage to ties with India and are willing, at worst, to lose a bunch of votes in a few ridings. The ball is squarely in the Canadian court. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Candian PM Trudeau will be in India but 'Khalistani' issue casts a shadow on bilateral ties

Congress President Rahul Gandhi alleged a &quot;scam&quot; Tuesday in the Rafael deal, after Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman refused to disclose details of the deal on Monday.&nbsp;

&quot;For the first time, the defence minister is saying that we will not share details of money spent on buying the aircraft...I spoke during the Gujarat polls that there is a scam (in the Rafale deal). Modi ji has personally got the deal done,&quot; PTI quoted Gandhi as telling reporters outside Parliament.&nbsp;

&quot;Modi ji had personally gone to Paris. Personally the deal was changed. The entire India knows it. And the defence minister is saying she will not inform India, the Indian martyrs and their relatives about the money spent on buying those aircraft. What does this mean? This only means there is some scam,&quot; Gandhi added.&nbsp;

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The Defence Minister says that we will not reveal the amount paid for buying <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafael?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafael</a> aircrafts. What does this mean? This only means there is a scam. Modi ji personally went to Paris, he changed the deal. The whole country knows it: Congress President Rahul Gandhi <a href="https://t.co/C81lszYE9g">pic.twitter.com/C81lszYE9g</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/960838110404849665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sitharaman had told Parliament on Monday that the government cannot disclose details of the fighter jet deal because of a secrecy pact between the governments of India and France.&nbsp;

Her response was to a written question in Rajya Sabha by Samajwadi Party member Naresh Agrawal, who had asked whether the government did not want to disclose in public domain the agreement between India and France for purchasing the aircraft.&nbsp;

Leaders of the Congress and Samajwadi party had sought disclosure of the amount being paid in the present deal.

The Congress has alleged that the price paid for the jets by the NDA government is higher than that finalised by the UPA in the previous deal.

Sitharaman was also asked whether there was any involvement of a private sector company in the deal, to which she clarified that neither any public sector nor private sector company was included in the agreement.

Sitharaman further added that the deal has been finalised at an amount lower than the earlier deal.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

'The defence minister is saying she will not inform India... What does this mean? This only means there is some scam,' said Rahul

Congress President Rahul Gandhi alleged a "scam" Tuesday in the Rafael deal, after Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman refused to disclose details of the deal on Monday. "For the first time, the defence minister is saying that we will not share details of money spent on buying the aircraft...I spoke during the Gujarat polls that there is a scam (in the Rafale deal). Modi ji has personally got the deal done," PTI quoted Gandhi as telling reporters outside Parliament. "Modi ji had personally gone to Paris. Personally the deal was changed. The entire India knows it. And the defence minister is saying she will not inform India, the Indian martyrs and their relatives about the money spent on buying those aircraft. What does this mean? This only means there is some scam," Gandhi added. The Defence Minister says that we will not reveal the amount paid for buying #Rafael aircrafts. What does this mean? This only means there is a scam. Modi ji personally went to Paris, he changed the deal. The whole country knows it: Congress President Rahul Gandhi pic.twitter.com/C81lszYE9g — ANI (@ANI) February 6, 2018 × Sitharaman had told Parliament on Monday that the government cannot disclose details of the fighter jet deal because of a secrecy pact between the governments of India and France. Her response was to a written question in Rajya Sabha by Samajwadi Party member Naresh Agrawal, who had asked whether the government did not want to disclose in public domain the agreement between India and France for purchasing the aircraft. Leaders of the Congress and Samajwadi party had sought disclosure of the amount being paid in the present deal. The Congress has alleged that the price paid for the jets by the NDA government is higher than that finalised by the UPA in the previous deal. Sitharaman was also asked whether there was any involvement of a private sector company in the deal, to which she clarified that neither any public sector nor private sector company was included in the agreement. Sitharaman further added that the deal has been finalised at an amount lower than the earlier deal.

Rahul alleges 'scam' in Rafale deal

Congress is standing at the exit gate in Karnataka. It has caused destruction here and Karnataka doesn&#39;t need a Congress culture, &nbsp;said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a major rally on Sunday in bengaluru ahead of the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections.&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;Your enthusiasm shows that the countdown of Congress to make an exit has begun,&#39;&#39; Modi added.&nbsp;

The recent budget has solved one problem of Karnataka. with an investment of 17,000 crores, construction work of 160 km long sub-urban railway network will be started in Bengaluru, Modi said and added that 15 lakh commuters of the city will be benefited by it.&nbsp;

The government has set a goal to build more than 9,000 kms long National Highway across the nation this year, he said and added that under Bharatmala Pariyojana, 35,000 km of roads will be constructed with an investment of Rs 5,25,000.&nbsp;

There will be chaos in Bengaluru if it doesn&#39;t get electricity for a day. However, there are 7 lakhs homes in Karnataka &amp; 4 crores homes in the nation which lives in dark even after so many years of independence: PM Modi in Bengaluru.

Modi also slammed the Karnataka government and accused the state government of not using the extra fund provided by the Centre.&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;I want to ask you if you have seen the correct use and impact of extra money provided by the Center to the state government,&#39;&#39; PM said.&nbsp;

Modi also praised BJP&#39;s chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa and said that if he comes to power the projects for farmers will work at its best because he has farmer&#39;s best interest at heart.&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;In this budget, the government has made a significant decision so that correct price of crops is given to farmers. If Yeddyurappa, son of a farmer, becomes CM of Karnataka, the projects for farmers will work at its best because Yeddyurappa has farmer&#39;s best interest at heart,&#39;&#39; Modi said.&nbsp;

Modi also praised BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa and said that if he comes to power the projects for farmers will work at its best because he has farmer's best interest at heart.

Congress is standing at the exit gate in Karnataka. It has caused destruction here and Karnataka doesn't need a Congress culture, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a major rally on Sunday in bengaluru ahead of the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections. ''Your enthusiasm shows that the countdown of Congress to make an exit has begun,'' Modi added. The recent budget has solved one problem of Karnataka. with an investment of 17,000 crores, construction work of 160 km long sub-urban railway network will be started in Bengaluru, Modi said and added that 15 lakh commuters of the city will be benefited by it. The government has set a goal to build more than 9,000 kms long National Highway across the nation this year, he said and added that under Bharatmala Pariyojana, 35,000 km of roads will be constructed with an investment of Rs 5,25,000. There will be chaos in Bengaluru if it doesn't get electricity for a day. However, there are 7 lakhs homes in Karnataka & 4 crores homes in the nation which lives in dark even after so many years of independence: PM Modi in Bengaluru. Modi also slammed the Karnataka government and accused the state government of not using the extra fund provided by the Centre. ''I want to ask you if you have seen the correct use and impact of extra money provided by the Center to the state government,'' PM said. Modi also praised BJP's chief ministerial candidate B S Yeddyurappa and said that if he comes to power the projects for farmers will work at its best because he has farmer's best interest at heart. ''In this budget, the government has made a significant decision so that correct price of crops is given to farmers. If Yeddyurappa, son of a farmer, becomes CM of Karnataka, the projects for farmers will work at its best because Yeddyurappa has farmer's best interest at heart,'' Modi said.

Congress is standing at 'exit gate' in Karnataka: Modi

A group of college students, donning degree robes and selling &#39;pakodas&#39; to passers-by in a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s remarks over job creation, were today whisked away by the police, hours before the PM&#39;s rally here.

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Karnataka: Students of a college seen selling pakora in Bengaluru. <a href="https://t.co/b5qpd1ePbh">pic.twitter.com/b5qpd1ePbh</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/960103977013661696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The students appeared near the Mehkri Circle, a few metres away from Palace Ground where Modi is scheduled to address the rally, in protest against his recent remarks linking pakoda (snack) selling and job creation.

On being asked about inadequate job creation in the last four years in a recent interview to a news channel, the prime minister had said that a person selling pakodas outside their (channel&#39;s) television studio and earning Rs 200 a day should also be perceived as &#39;employed&#39;.

The young students sold &#39;Modi Pakodas&#39;, &#39;Amit Shah Pakoda&#39; and &#39;Dr Yeddy Pakodas&#39;, a reference to Karnataka BJP chief Yeddyurappa, to those passing by, including the BJP workers and visitors on their way to the rally.

The police later removed the degree robes of the protesting students and took them into custody.&nbsp;

The students appeared near the Mehkri Circle, a few metres away from Palace Ground where Modi is scheduled to address the rally, in protest against his recent remarks linking pakoda (snack) selling and job creation

A group of college students, donning degree robes and selling 'pakodas' to passers-by in a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks over job creation, were today whisked away by the police, hours before the PM's rally here. Karnataka: Students of a college seen selling pakora in Bengaluru. pic.twitter.com/b5qpd1ePbh — ANI (@ANI) February 4, 2018 × The students appeared near the Mehkri Circle, a few metres away from Palace Ground where Modi is scheduled to address the rally, in protest against his recent remarks linking pakoda (snack) selling and job creation. On being asked about inadequate job creation in the last four years in a recent interview to a news channel, the prime minister had said that a person selling pakodas outside their (channel's) television studio and earning Rs 200 a day should also be perceived as 'employed'. The young students sold 'Modi Pakodas', 'Amit Shah Pakoda' and 'Dr Yeddy Pakodas', a reference to Karnataka BJP chief Yeddyurappa, to those passing by, including the BJP workers and visitors on their way to the rally. The police later removed the degree robes of the protesting students and took them into custody.

Students donning degree robes sell pakodas near Modi's rally venue

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/2nd-odi-india-romp-home-in-centurion-odi-by-9-wickets-lead-series-2-0-31746">2nd ODI: India romp home in Centurion ODI by 9 wickets, lead series 2-0</a>

Opener Shikhar Dhawan and Skipper Virat Kohli&#39;s 91 partnership helped India defeat South Africa by nine wickets in the 2nd ODI at SuperSport Park, Centurion.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-is-standing-at-the-exit-gate-in-karnataka-modi-31748">Congress is standing at &#39;exit gate&#39; in Karnataka: Modi</a>

Congress is standing at the exit gate in Karnataka. It has caused destruction here and Karnataka doesn&#39;t need a Congress culture, &nbsp;said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a major rally on Sunday in Bengaluru ahead of the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-ksrtc-driver-goes-on-for-70-kilometres-with-body-stuck-to-bus-31742">Karnataka: Bus driven 70 kilometres with body stuck in undercarriage</a>

A driver with the &nbsp;Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) kept on driving for nearly 70 kilometres without realising that a dead body was stuck to the undercarriage of the bus.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/indian-americans-hold-rally-to-support-merit-based-immigration-31737">Indian-Americans stage rare pro-Trump immigration rally to support merit-based system</a>

Several hundred highly-skilled Indian workers, in long agonising green card, wait, from across the US along with their children and spouses held a rally in front of the White House here in support of President Donald Trump&#39;s plan for a merit-based immigration system that among other things ends chain migration and diversity lottery visa.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-get-best-lawyer-to-get-ankit-justice-arvind-kejriwalon-ankit-saxenas-murder-31740">&#39;Will get </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-get-best-lawyer-to-get-ankit-justice-arvind-kejriwalon-ankit-saxenas-murder-31740">best</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-get-best-lawyer-to-get-ankit-justice-arvind-kejriwalon-ankit-saxenas-murder-31740"> lawyer to get Ankit justice,&#39; Arvind Kejriwal on Ankit Saxena&#39;s murder</a>

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed his regret over Ankit Saxena&#39;s murder and met with his kin today.&nbsp;

2nd ODI: India romp home in Centurion ODI by 9 wickets, lead series 2-0 Opener Shikhar Dhawan and Skipper Virat Kohli's 91 partnership helped India defeat South Africa by nine wickets in the 2nd ODI at SuperSport Park, Centurion. Congress is standing at 'exit gate' in Karnataka: Modi Congress is standing at the exit gate in Karnataka. It has caused destruction here and Karnataka doesn't need a Congress culture, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a major rally on Sunday in Bengaluru ahead of the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections. Karnataka: Bus driven 70 kilometres with body stuck in undercarriage A driver with the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) kept on driving for nearly 70 kilometres without realising that a dead body was stuck to the undercarriage of the bus. Indian-Americans stage rare pro-Trump immigration rally to support merit-based system Several hundred highly-skilled Indian workers, in long agonising green card, wait, from across the US along with their children and spouses held a rally in front of the White House here in support of President Donald Trump's plan for a merit-based immigration system that among other things ends chain migration and diversity lottery visa. 'Will get best lawyer to get Ankit justice,' Arvind Kejriwal on Ankit Saxena's murder Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed his regret over Ankit Saxena's murder and met with his kin today.

WION Evening News Brief, February 4, 2018

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the Congress of stalling&nbsp;&#39;Triple Talaq&#39; bill.&nbsp;

Modi was addressing &#39;Parivarthan rally&#39; in Bengaluru ahead of upcoming Karnataka assembly elections.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-is-standing-at-the-exit-gate-in-karnataka-modi-31748">Congress is standing at &#39;exit gate&#39; in Karnataka: Modi</a> 
&nbsp; 
&#39;They are trying to do the same with OBC Bill,&#39; Modi added.

Modi also praised Rahul Dravid as he slammed the&nbsp;Siddaramaiah government in the state.&nbsp;

&quot;Our U19 Cricket Team won World Cup yesterday. Their head coach Rahul Dravid was a significant factor behind this victory and this can&#39;t be denied. He teaches us to work honestly and live for others&quot;

&quot;This is the culture of Karnataka but the present state government&nbsp;is ruining this culture,&quot; he added.

He also accused Congress leaders of corruption. &quot;There are serious allegations of corruption against Congress leaders. Reports are coming about them demanding commission in several projects. &#39;&#39;I have been told that Karnataka government is being recognised as 10 per cent government as no work is possible without 10 per cent&nbsp;commission.&quot;

Triple Talaq bill was cleared in Lok Sabha last year and is expected to pass by Rajya Sabha during this year in a special budget session.

Modi is campaigning for upcoming Karnataka assembly elections in Bengaluru

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday accused the Congress of stalling 'Triple Talaq' bill. Modi was addressing 'Parivarthan rally' in Bengaluru ahead of upcoming Karnataka assembly elections. Also read: Congress is standing at 'exit gate' in Karnataka: Modi 'They are trying to do the same with OBC Bill,' Modi added. Modi also praised Rahul Dravid as he slammed the Siddaramaiah government in the state. "Our U19 Cricket Team won World Cup yesterday. Their head coach Rahul Dravid was a significant factor behind this victory and this can't be denied. He teaches us to work honestly and live for others" "This is the culture of Karnataka but the present state government is ruining this culture," he added. He also accused Congress leaders of corruption. "There are serious allegations of corruption against Congress leaders. Reports are coming about them demanding commission in several projects. ''I have been told that Karnataka government is being recognised as 10 per cent government as no work is possible without 10 per cent commission." Triple Talaq bill was cleared in Lok Sabha last year and is expected to pass by Rajya Sabha during this year in a special budget session.

Congress is trying to stall 'triple talaq': Modi in Karnataka

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind extended their congratulations to Indian U-19 team for their world cup winning effort on Saturday.

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Absolutely thrilled by the stupendous achievement of our young cricketers. Congratulations to them on winning the Under-19 World Cup. This triumph makes every Indian extremely proud.
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/959713422077317120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Congrats to India&#39;s talented young cricket team for winning the Under-19 World Cup. Calmness and composure of our boys embellishes their skills. Proud of captain <a href="https://twitter.com/Shaw_Prithvi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Shaw_Prithvi</a> and his mates, as well as of coach Rahul Dravid and the hard-working support staff <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
&mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/959697626059943936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Many prominent personalities including politicians and cricketer and people from entertainment industry hailed Indian U-19 team for bringing world cup to the country.

Newly-elected Congress president Rahul Gandhi also sent his congratulations on Twitter.

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Congratulations Team India on your resounding U 19 Cricket World Cup win! India takes great pride in the success of its new generation of cricket stars. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19CWCFinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19CWCFinal</a> <a href="https://t.co/DHUaYzhxjL">pic.twitter.com/DHUaYzhxjL</a>
&mdash; Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeOfRG/status/959709436716683264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Rajnath Singh also extended his congratulations to the team.

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Congratulations to the Indian cricket team, captain Prithvi Shaw &amp; coach Rahul Dravid on winning the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19CWC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19CWC</a> . Our boys outplayed the opponents by exhibiting great determination and wonderful cricketing skills. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoysInBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoysInBlue</a> have made the country proud again.
&mdash; Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/959707655743959040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-final-manjot-kalras-ton-takes-india-to-historic-fourth-world-cup-title-31660" target="_blank">India defeated three times World Champions Australia</a>&nbsp;by 8 wickets to register a memorable a memorable World Cup triumph in Mount Maunganui, Bay Oval, on Saturday. &nbsp;

defeated three times World Champions Australia by 8 wickets to register a memorable a memorable World Cup triumph in Mount Maunganui, Bay Oval, on Saturday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind extended their congratulations to Indian U-19 team for their world cup winning effort on Saturday. Absolutely thrilled by the stupendous achievement of our young cricketers. Congratulations to them on winning the Under-19 World Cup. This triumph makes every Indian extremely proud. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 3, 2018 × Congrats to India's talented young cricket team for winning the Under-19 World Cup. Calmness and composure of our boys embellishes their skills. Proud of captain @Shaw_Prithvi and his mates, as well as of coach Rahul Dravid and the hard-working support staff #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) February 3, 2018 × Many prominent personalities including politicians and cricketer and people from entertainment industry hailed Indian U-19 team for bringing world cup to the country. Newly-elected Congress president Rahul Gandhi also sent his congratulations on Twitter. Congratulations Team India on your resounding U 19 Cricket World Cup win! India takes great pride in the success of its new generation of cricket stars. #U19CWCFinal pic.twitter.com/DHUaYzhxjL — Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 3, 2018 × Rajnath Singh also extended his congratulations to the team. Congratulations to the Indian cricket team, captain Prithvi Shaw & coach Rahul Dravid on winning the #U19CWC . Our boys outplayed the opponents by exhibiting great determination and wonderful cricketing skills. The #BoysInBlue have made the country proud again. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) February 3, 2018 × India defeated three times World Champions Australia by 8 wickets to register a memorable a memorable World Cup triumph in Mount Maunganui, Bay Oval, on Saturday.

PM Modi, President Ram Nath Kovind congratulate U-19 team on historic victory

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the&nbsp;inaugural session of the Advantage Assam-Global Investors&#39;&nbsp;Summit in Guwahati.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> PM Modi addresses the inaugural session of Advantage Assam-Global Investors Summit in Guwahati <a href="https://t.co/mjh3hQZnxT">https://t.co/mjh3hQZnxT</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/959692997699883011?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister said that India&#39;s growth story would be expedited once the Northeast developed.

&quot;India&#39;s growth story will pick up more speed when people living in Northeast region will see fast development in a balanced manner,&quot; the prime minister said at the summit which aims at positioning the state as India&#39;s expressway to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries.

&quot;We created the Act East Policy and the Northeast is at the heart of it,&quot; PM Modi said&nbsp;

The prime minister&nbsp;said the tagline of the of the summit, &#39;Advantage Assam: India&rsquo;s Expressway to ASEAN&rsquo;, was very appropriate and gave a big message.

&quot;Advantage Assam: India&rsquo;s Expressway to ASEAN&rsquo; is not just a statement but it is a comprehensive vision,&quot; PM Modi said.

PM Modi praised Assam for ranking first among the Northeast states in the Ease of Doing Business report.

&quot;Assam is ranked first among the Northeastern States in the Ease of Doing Business report. With the present leadership of the state government, Assam is going to further improve its current position to emerge as one of the most sought-after states for investment,&quot; the prime minister said.

PM Modi said his government was restructuring the National Bamboo mission with an amount of Rs 1300 crore. 
 
&quot;We are restructuring the &#39;National Bamboo mission&#39;&nbsp;with the amount of Rs 1300 crore. This will benefit people of Northeast, especially the farmers of this region,&quot; he said.

PM Modi also said the working style of the government had been changed.

&quot;We have changed the working style of govt. We want all programmes to be completed ahead of target,&quot; he said.

The prime minister also spoke about the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme announced in the budget, stating that it would benefit 45-50 crore people. He added that the scheme had enhanced possibilities of setting up hospitals in tier 2 and 3 cities.

&quot;Government in the budget announced Ayushman Bharat Yojana, This is one of its kind, the biggest programme in the World. Someone who has lived in poverty, who had endured pains of poverty and moved forward, that person always realises that the biggest concern of poor is the treatment of diseases,&quot; PM Modi said.

He also spoke about how the development of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector was a priority for the government which had given a &quot;big relief&quot; to the MSMEs in this year&#39;s budget.

&quot;Development of the MSME sector is a priority for us. In this year&#39;s budget we are giving big relief to MSMEs by reducing the rate of income tax to 25% on companies reporting a turnover of up to Rs 250 crore.

Also in attendance was the Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay.

&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi with Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay at Advantage Assam - Global Investors Summit 2018 in Guwahati. <a href="https://t.co/LhWr8v4Bbx">pic.twitter.com/LhWr8v4Bbx</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/959705676695171074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The two-day summit, organised by the Assam Government, in association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), will showcase Assam&#39;s manufacturing opportunities and geostrategic advantages to foreign and domestic investors.

The focus sectors identified by the state include agriculture and food processing, organic farming, bamboo, handloom, textile and handicrafts, inland water transport, riverfront development and logistics.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from&nbsp;agencies) 
&nbsp;

PM Modi said that India's growth story would be expedited once the North East developed

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the inaugural session of the Advantage Assam-Global Investors' Summit in Guwahati. #WATCH PM Modi addresses the inaugural session of Advantage Assam-Global Investors Summit in Guwahati https://t.co/mjh3hQZnxT — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2018 × The prime minister said that India's growth story would be expedited once the Northeast developed. "India's growth story will pick up more speed when people living in Northeast region will see fast development in a balanced manner," the prime minister said at the summit which aims at positioning the state as India's expressway to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries. "We created the Act East Policy and the Northeast is at the heart of it," PM Modi said The prime minister said the tagline of the of the summit, 'Advantage Assam: India’s Expressway to ASEAN’, was very appropriate and gave a big message. "Advantage Assam: India’s Expressway to ASEAN’ is not just a statement but it is a comprehensive vision," PM Modi said. PM Modi praised Assam for ranking first among the Northeast states in the Ease of Doing Business report. "Assam is ranked first among the Northeastern States in the Ease of Doing Business report. With the present leadership of the state government, Assam is going to further improve its current position to emerge as one of the most sought-after states for investment," the prime minister said. PM Modi said his government was restructuring the National Bamboo mission with an amount of Rs 1300 crore. "We are restructuring the 'National Bamboo mission' with the amount of Rs 1300 crore. This will benefit people of Northeast, especially the farmers of this region," he said. PM Modi also said the working style of the government had been changed. "We have changed the working style of govt. We want all programmes to be completed ahead of target," he said. The prime minister also spoke about the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme announced in the budget, stating that it would benefit 45-50 crore people. He added that the scheme had enhanced possibilities of setting up hospitals in tier 2 and 3 cities. "Government in the budget announced Ayushman Bharat Yojana, This is one of its kind, the biggest programme in the World. Someone who has lived in poverty, who had endured pains of poverty and moved forward, that person always realises that the biggest concern of poor is the treatment of diseases," PM Modi said. He also spoke about how the development of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector was a priority for the government which had given a "big relief" to the MSMEs in this year's budget. "Development of the MSME sector is a priority for us. In this year's budget we are giving big relief to MSMEs by reducing the rate of income tax to 25% on companies reporting a turnover of up to Rs 250 crore. Also in attendance was the Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay. PM Narendra Modi with Bhutanese PM Tshering Tobgay at Advantage Assam - Global Investors Summit 2018 in Guwahati. pic.twitter.com/LhWr8v4Bbx — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2018 × The two-day summit, organised by the Assam Government, in association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), will showcase Assam's manufacturing opportunities and geostrategic advantages to foreign and domestic investors. The focus sectors identified by the state include agriculture and food processing, organic farming, bamboo, handloom, textile and handicrafts, inland water transport, riverfront development and logistics. (With inputs from agencies)

Northeast at heart of Act East policy: PM Modi in Assam

The national <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/dont-know-about-obamacare-but-modicare-can-definitely-become-successful-jaitley-31525">health protection scheme announced </a>in the Union Budget 2018 on Thursday will be implemented from October 2, reports said.

A Niti Ayog official said the health insurance scheme proposed in the Budget will cost Rs 10,000-12,000 crore.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/stress-in-farm-sector-is-real-jaitley-says-day-after-budget-31551">Also Read: Stress in farm sector is real, Jaitley says day after Budget</a>

The annual<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/live-union-budget-2018-finance-minister-arun-jaitley-presents-budget-in-parliament-31380"> premium will range between</a> Rs 1,000-1,200 per family, the official added.

The national health care policy announced in the Union Budget by finance minister aims to be the &quot;world&#39;s largest publicly-funded healthcare programme&quot;.

The plan is expected to cover around 50 crore people.

The newly unveiled policy offers Rs 5 lakh cover per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation.

The finance minister had committed Rs 1,200 crore for the National Health Policy which would be used towards bringing up 1.5 lakh health and wellness centres.

&nbsp;

The plan is expected to cover around 50 crore people.

The national health protection scheme announced in the Union Budget 2018 on Thursday will be implemented from October 2, reports said. A Niti Ayog official said the health insurance scheme proposed in the Budget will cost Rs 10,000-12,000 crore. Also Read: Stress in farm sector is real, Jaitley says day after Budget The annual premium will range between Rs 1,000-1,200 per family, the official added. The national health care policy announced in the Union Budget by finance minister aims to be the "world's largest publicly-funded healthcare programme". The plan is expected to cover around 50 crore people. The newly unveiled policy offers Rs 5 lakh cover per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation. The finance minister had committed Rs 1,200 crore for the National Health Policy which would be used towards bringing up 1.5 lakh health and wellness centres.

Budget 2018: Govt's landmark national health scheme to be implemented from October 2

Finance Minister Aruj Jaitley has described this year&#39;s Union Budget as &ldquo;popular, and not populist&rdquo;.&nbsp;

In an exclusive interview to Zee Business, Jaitley said, &ldquo;This Budget was one of the most challenging ones for me. Among the big challenges I had were: How to maintain the fiscal deficit, GDP had slowed down in the past but has now picked up. So how to maintain that growth momentum? Which areas to prioritise etc.&rdquo;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2018-govts-landmark-national-health-scheme-to-be-implemented-from-october-2nd-31610">Budget 2018: Govt&#39;s landmark national health scheme to be implemented from October 2</a>

The interview comes days after Jaitley presented the Union Budget where he announced an ambitious project of providing health insurance to nearly 40 crore population of the country. The government, Jaitley said in Parliament, will provide Rs 5 lakh health insurance to 10 crore poor and vulnerable families in &ldquo;world&rsquo;s largest health care programme&rdquo;.

The Ayushman Bharat Programme, which is being dubbed as &ldquo;Modicare&rdquo;, is being compared with Obamacare, the comprehensive health programme launched by former US president Barack Obama.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-went-from-fragile-five-economies-to-fastest-growing-five-jaitley-31425">India went from fragile five economies to fastest-growing five, says Jaitley</a>

&ldquo;These 40 crore poor people have nothing for them. If they or any of their family members fall ill, they only have government hospitals to go to. By providing this comprehensive healthcare scheme, the government is empowering the poor,&rdquo; Jaitley said.

He added, &ldquo;This year&rsquo;s Budget was different than previous years. Our purpose was to consolidate the gains we made in previous years. And we wanted to analyse the areas where we were lagging behind.&rdquo;

In the Budget, Jaitley emphasised that his government&rsquo;s focus is on the agricultural sector and for the benefit of farmers, it was announced that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for kharif crops will now be 1.5 times of the input cost. When asked about the roadmap, Jaitley today said that the beneficial effects of the MSP will be known in time to come.

In the Budget, Jaitley emphasised that his government’s focus is on the agricultural sector and for the benefit of farmers

Finance Minister Aruj Jaitley has described this year's Union Budget as “popular, and not populist”. In an exclusive interview to Zee Business, Jaitley said, “This Budget was one of the most challenging ones for me. Among the big challenges I had were: How to maintain the fiscal deficit, GDP had slowed down in the past but has now picked up. So how to maintain that growth momentum? Which areas to prioritise etc.” Also read: Budget 2018: Govt's landmark national health scheme to be implemented from October 2 The interview comes days after Jaitley presented the Union Budget where he announced an ambitious project of providing health insurance to nearly 40 crore population of the country. The government, Jaitley said in Parliament, will provide Rs 5 lakh health insurance to 10 crore poor and vulnerable families in “world’s largest health care programme”. The Ayushman Bharat Programme, which is being dubbed as “Modicare”, is being compared with Obamacare, the comprehensive health programme launched by former US president Barack Obama. Also read: India went from fragile five economies to fastest-growing five, says Jaitley “These 40 crore poor people have nothing for them. If they or any of their family members fall ill, they only have government hospitals to go to. By providing this comprehensive healthcare scheme, the government is empowering the poor,” Jaitley said. He added, “This year’s Budget was different than previous years. Our purpose was to consolidate the gains we made in previous years. And we wanted to analyse the areas where we were lagging behind.” In the Budget, Jaitley emphasised that his government’s focus is on the agricultural sector and for the benefit of farmers, it was announced that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for kharif crops will now be 1.5 times of the input cost. When asked about the roadmap, Jaitley today said that the beneficial effects of the MSP will be known in time to come.

This year's budget is 'popular, and not populist':  Arun Jaitley

Different people look at the budget differently. Politicians give their views based on their party&rsquo;s stand and market participants try to discuss it based on the industry they belong to. This causes a lot of information overload for the common man.&nbsp;

Therefore, here are the five aspects of the budget 2018 which could have an impact on your finances in this year:

Corporate Tax Rate

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday proposed to cut the corporate income tax rate to 25 per cent for companies with a turnover of up to Rs 250 crore, meeting a key demand of the corporate world that has been seeking lower tax payouts to enable greater investment and jobs creation.

&ldquo;This will benefit 99 percent of the companies that file taxes&rdquo;, Jaitley said, &ldquo;adding that mini, micro, small and medium enterprises will gain the most&rdquo;.

How it affects you: If you are running an enterprise or planning to start one, then it would be a great news for you because now you will pay 25% instead of 30%.

A lot of things will turn costlier, and few will become cheaper

Finance Minister has reduced the basic excise duty on the Petrol and Diesel by Rs 2 and abolished the additional excise duty of Rs 6, however, he introduced a new road cess of Rs 8 per litre, which means prices of petrol and diesel will remain unchanged.&nbsp;

In this budget, they have also increased the customs duty on the imported cars, bikes, mobile phones, TVs, perfumes, watches and wearables, thus, making all these items expensive to buy. Cigarettes, too, will become costlier.

But tiles, cashew nuts, solar-tempered glass and solar cells will become cheaper.

How it affects you: If you had been planning on buying some electronic item or some accessories to gift to your loved ones, then it would be wiser to buy a product which is &lsquo;Made in India&rsquo;.&nbsp;

LTCG

This move again surprised most of the analyst, including me, as we were expecting either a change of the definition of &quot;Long Term&quot; to 2 or 3 years or else securities transaction tax (STT) to be abolished if LTCG is introduced again.

However, Jaitley introduced the LTCG of 10 percent if the gains exceed Rs 100,000 without allowing the benefit of indexation. He also said that &ldquo;All the gains till the 31st January 2018 will be grandfathered and short-term capital gains remain unchanged at 15 percent&rdquo;.

How it affects you: If you are an investor, you now have to stipulate the LTCG before calculating your returns on the investment. This means, until Jan 2018, if you had kept a stock for a time period longer than one year then there was no tax payable on it.

However, from now onwards whatever gain you have over the 1 lakh for the financial year 2018-2019 you have to pay 10% LTCG on it.

In long run, it can also impediment the entry of new investors, as now their returns would also need to adjust the 10% LTCG before calculating their final returns.

Standard Deduction &amp; Education Cess

Budget 2018 proposes to provide a standard deduction of Rs 40,000 from salary income to employees but also proposes to take away transport allowance, medical reimbursement and other allowances.&nbsp;

Considering the above factors, the net income exempted from tax after setting off the gain and loss is Rs 5800 only.&nbsp;

Moreover, it would also depend upon your tax bracket. The saving in tax would be Rs 290 for those currently paying 5% tax on this income; Rs 1160 for those paying 20% tax on this income; and Rs 1740 for those paying 30% tax on this income.&nbsp;

However, these savings would be nullified in most cases, except in the case of income up to Rs 5 lakh, due to increase in the cess payable from current 3% to 4% on the rest of the income tax payable by the individual. Therefore, individuals with income above Rs 5 lakh would end up shelling out more tax after taking into account the standard deduction, the removal of the allowances and the increase in cess.&nbsp;

However, it would be a big relief for pension people as they were not given the exemptions like the salaried employees.

How it affects you: The impact would be neutral in most cases if you are a salaried employee because while you are not going to get any relief if you earn above 5 lakhs, however, the &lsquo;increase in tax amount&rsquo; is not steep after all. However, it&rsquo;s good news for you if you are a pensioner, as now you will benefit from higher deduction against health insurance premium.

Cryptocurrency

Arun Jaitley clearly stated in the budget speech that this government doesn&rsquo;t consider Bitcoin a legal tender and it will discourage its use. However, he mentioned that the government will look at the utilisation of the blockchain technology.

Therefore, we would suggest staying away from investing in cryptocurrency else invest only with the money which you are ready to lose.

How it affects you: The announcement can have negative impacts as it will become difficult to trade in cryptocurrency, thus, bringing down the prices of them and your investment if you have invested in the same.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Here are the five aspects of the budget 2018 which could have an impact on your finances in this year

Different people look at the budget differently. Politicians give their views based on their party’s stand and market participants try to discuss it based on the industry they belong to. This causes a lot of information overload for the common man. Therefore, here are the five aspects of the budget 2018 which could have an impact on your finances in this year: Corporate Tax Rate Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday proposed to cut the corporate income tax rate to 25 per cent for companies with a turnover of up to Rs 250 crore, meeting a key demand of the corporate world that has been seeking lower tax payouts to enable greater investment and jobs creation. “This will benefit 99 percent of the companies that file taxes”, Jaitley said, “adding that mini, micro, small and medium enterprises will gain the most”. How it affects you: If you are running an enterprise or planning to start one, then it would be a great news for you because now you will pay 25% instead of 30%. A lot of things will turn costlier, and few will become cheaper Finance Minister has reduced the basic excise duty on the Petrol and Diesel by Rs 2 and abolished the additional excise duty of Rs 6, however, he introduced a new road cess of Rs 8 per litre, which means prices of petrol and diesel will remain unchanged. In this budget, they have also increased the customs duty on the imported cars, bikes, mobile phones, TVs, perfumes, watches and wearables, thus, making all these items expensive to buy. Cigarettes, too, will become costlier. But tiles, cashew nuts, solar-tempered glass and solar cells will become cheaper. How it affects you: If you had been planning on buying some electronic item or some accessories to gift to your loved ones, then it would be wiser to buy a product which is ‘Made in India’. LTCG This move again surprised most of the analyst, including me, as we were expecting either a change of the definition of "Long Term" to 2 or 3 years or else securities transaction tax (STT) to be abolished if LTCG is introduced again. However, Jaitley introduced the LTCG of 10 percent if the gains exceed Rs 100,000 without allowing the benefit of indexation. He also said that “All the gains till the 31st January 2018 will be grandfathered and short-term capital gains remain unchanged at 15 percent”. How it affects you: If you are an investor, you now have to stipulate the LTCG before calculating your returns on the investment. This means, until Jan 2018, if you had kept a stock for a time period longer than one year then there was no tax payable on it. However, from now onwards whatever gain you have over the 1 lakh for the financial year 2018-2019 you have to pay 10% LTCG on it. In long run, it can also impediment the entry of new investors, as now their returns would also need to adjust the 10% LTCG before calculating their final returns. Standard Deduction & Education Cess Budget 2018 proposes to provide a standard deduction of Rs 40,000 from salary income to employees but also proposes to take away transport allowance, medical reimbursement and other allowances. Considering the above factors, the net income exempted from tax after setting off the gain and loss is Rs 5800 only. Moreover, it would also depend upon your tax bracket. The saving in tax would be Rs 290 for those currently paying 5% tax on this income; Rs 1160 for those paying 20% tax on this income; and Rs 1740 for those paying 30% tax on this income. However, these savings would be nullified in most cases, except in the case of income up to Rs 5 lakh, due to increase in the cess payable from current 3% to 4% on the rest of the income tax payable by the individual. Therefore, individuals with income above Rs 5 lakh would end up shelling out more tax after taking into account the standard deduction, the removal of the allowances and the increase in cess. However, it would be a big relief for pension people as they were not given the exemptions like the salaried employees. How it affects you: The impact would be neutral in most cases if you are a salaried employee because while you are not going to get any relief if you earn above 5 lakhs, however, the ‘increase in tax amount’ is not steep after all. However, it’s good news for you if you are a pensioner, as now you will benefit from higher deduction against health insurance premium. Cryptocurrency Arun Jaitley clearly stated in the budget speech that this government doesn’t consider Bitcoin a legal tender and it will discourage its use. However, he mentioned that the government will look at the utilisation of the blockchain technology. Therefore, we would suggest staying away from investing in cryptocurrency else invest only with the money which you are ready to lose. How it affects you: The announcement can have negative impacts as it will become difficult to trade in cryptocurrency, thus, bringing down the prices of them and your investment if you have invested in the same. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: How does the Union Budget affect YOU?

The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) budget for 2018-19 is Rs 55,000 crores, the same as that of the past year in money terms. The initial budget of Rs 48,000 crores for 2017-18 was supplemented with Rs 7,000 crores in January 2018. Also, given the trend of rising pending liabilities at the end of every year, a sizable part of the 2018-19 budget will be utilised for clearing previous years&rsquo; payments. Even the 2017-18 budget was grossly inadequate to implement NREGA as per the provisions of the Act. The inadequate budget for NREGA, and also for other rural development programmes, undermines the employment guarantee act in the following ways:&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Long and unpredictable delays in wage payments: The Ministry of Rural Development releases MGNREGA funds only after states meet its requirements, such as submission of various documents and compliance with its instructions. Such checks and balances are required, but withholding of funds due to lapses by state governments unfairly penalises NREGA workers.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the ongoing financial year, the Ministry withheld the processing of Fund Transfer Orders for states till the time they did not meet its requirements for fund release. As a result, workers of many states remained unpaid for weeks, even months in case of Bihar and Jharkhand.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Non-payment of compensation: Workers are not compensated for the delays in wage payments after the Fund Transfer Order is signed by the second signatory. As per the calculations made by independent researchers, compensation calculated by the NREGA Management Information System (MIS) for a sample of wage payments in 2016-17 was only 43% of the full compensation due to workers. This proportion fell to 14% for a sample of wage payments in the first quarter of 2017-18.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A damning report of the Ministry of Finance accepts that workers are compensated only partially. It also notes that compensating workers for the full extent of wage delays &ldquo;would vastly increase the expenditure&rdquo;!&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Low scale of work: To manage the inadequate funds for MGNREGA, government officials informally instruct their juniours to ration the scale of work. Also, the long delays in wage payments discourage workers to seek MGNREGA employment. Since 2012-13, the average number of days of work received by households (those who were able to get any work) has not exceeded 49. If the total rural population is taken into consideration, the annual scale of employment averages only 10 &ndash; 15 days per household.&nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Non-payment of minimum wages: Real NREGA wage rates have stagnated for several years now. In fact, currently, the NREGA wage rates of 17 states are less than the corresponding minimum wages. The government has ignored the recommendations of successive committees to reconcile between MGNREGA wage rates and state minimum wages. It has also not implemented the suggestion of indexing MGNREGA wage rates to the price level by using Consumer Price Index-Rural Labourers. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Prioritising schemes for other programmes: As per the employment guarantee act, Gram Sabhas have the right to select NREGA schemes for their village/Gram Panchayat. In the guise of &ldquo;convergence&rdquo;, the central government is imposing targets for construction of assets for other programmes, such as houses for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Anganwadi Centres for the Integrated Child Development Services. This &ldquo;hidden cross subsidization&rdquo; is done because the budgets for these programmes is also inadequate to meet their infrastructural requirements. As NREGA functionaries are made responsible for ensuring the completion of these assets, they are forced to compromise on their NREGA duties.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

NREGA also suffers from many other serious problems. Local functionaries are unable to cope with the increasing dependence of the programme on technology. Participation of Gram Panchayats in the programmes has decreased substantially due to the excessive centralization of NREGA implementation.&nbsp; This has adversely impacted the scale of work and local oversight.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Many workers are unable to receive their NREGA wages due to the forced integration of the programme with Aadhaar. There are rampant violations of workers&rsquo; rights to worksite facilities, unemployment allowance and time-bound redressal of grievances. Accountability and transparency provisions of the Act are ignored or undermined by central and state governments. Over time, this has created a climate of impunity and immunity around NREGA &ndash; anyone can get away with anything. This completely undermines the idea of enforceable entitlements for NREGA workers.

&nbsp;

After 12 years of implementation of the employment guarantee act, workers should have been celebrating the legal recognition of their right to work. However, they are struggling to save their existing NREGA entitlements.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The inadequate budget for NREGA, and also for other rural development programmes, undermines the employment guarantee act in several ways.

The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) budget for 2018-19 is Rs 55,000 crores, the same as that of the past year in money terms. The initial budget of Rs 48,000 crores for 2017-18 was supplemented with Rs 7,000 crores in January 2018. Also, given the trend of rising pending liabilities at the end of every year, a sizable part of the 2018-19 budget will be utilised for clearing previous years’ payments. Even the 2017-18 budget was grossly inadequate to implement NREGA as per the provisions of the Act. The inadequate budget for NREGA, and also for other rural development programmes, undermines the employment guarantee act in the following ways: Long and unpredictable delays in wage payments: The Ministry of Rural Development releases MGNREGA funds only after states meet its requirements, such as submission of various documents and compliance with its instructions. Such checks and balances are required, but withholding of funds due to lapses by state governments unfairly penalises NREGA workers. In the ongoing financial year, the Ministry withheld the processing of Fund Transfer Orders for states till the time they did not meet its requirements for fund release. As a result, workers of many states remained unpaid for weeks, even months in case of Bihar and Jharkhand. Non-payment of compensation: Workers are not compensated for the delays in wage payments after the Fund Transfer Order is signed by the second signatory. As per the calculations made by independent researchers, compensation calculated by the NREGA Management Information System (MIS) for a sample of wage payments in 2016-17 was only 43% of the full compensation due to workers. This proportion fell to 14% for a sample of wage payments in the first quarter of 2017-18. A damning report of the Ministry of Finance accepts that workers are compensated only partially. It also notes that compensating workers for the full extent of wage delays “would vastly increase the expenditure”! Low scale of work: To manage the inadequate funds for MGNREGA, government officials informally instruct their juniours to ration the scale of work. Also, the long delays in wage payments discourage workers to seek MGNREGA employment. Since 2012-13, the average number of days of work received by households (those who were able to get any work) has not exceeded 49. If the total rural population is taken into consideration, the annual scale of employment averages only 10 – 15 days per household. Non-payment of minimum wages: Real NREGA wage rates have stagnated for several years now. In fact, currently, the NREGA wage rates of 17 states are less than the corresponding minimum wages. The government has ignored the recommendations of successive committees to reconcile between MGNREGA wage rates and state minimum wages. It has also not implemented the suggestion of indexing MGNREGA wage rates to the price level by using Consumer Price Index-Rural Labourers. Prioritising schemes for other programmes: As per the employment guarantee act, Gram Sabhas have the right to select NREGA schemes for their village/Gram Panchayat. In the guise of “convergence”, the central government is imposing targets for construction of assets for other programmes, such as houses for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Anganwadi Centres for the Integrated Child Development Services. This “hidden cross subsidization” is done because the budgets for these programmes is also inadequate to meet their infrastructural requirements. As NREGA functionaries are made responsible for ensuring the completion of these assets, they are forced to compromise on their NREGA duties. NREGA also suffers from many other serious problems. Local functionaries are unable to cope with the increasing dependence of the programme on technology. Participation of Gram Panchayats in the programmes has decreased substantially due to the excessive centralization of NREGA implementation. This has adversely impacted the scale of work and local oversight. Many workers are unable to receive their NREGA wages due to the forced integration of the programme with Aadhaar. There are rampant violations of workers’ rights to worksite facilities, unemployment allowance and time-bound redressal of grievances. Accountability and transparency provisions of the Act are ignored or undermined by central and state governments. Over time, this has created a climate of impunity and immunity around NREGA – anyone can get away with anything. This completely undermines the idea of enforceable entitlements for NREGA workers. After 12 years of implementation of the employment guarantee act, workers should have been celebrating the legal recognition of their right to work. However, they are struggling to save their existing NREGA entitlements. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion:  Inadequate budget for NREGA threatens rural employment

In my <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-taxing-the-super-rich-is-how-we-can-revive-indian-economy-30732">pre-budget piece written for WION</a>, I had pointed towards at least three sets of challenges faced by the Modi government, on the eve of the budget&mdash;firstly, the issue of a growth and investment slowdown; secondly, the problem of revenue generation and thirdly, the problem of rural distress. It was predicted in the piece that the government will have a tough time in meeting these three challenges simultaneously given the limited elbow room that it is facing in the economic sphere.

&nbsp;

The budget placed by the Finance Minister today has only shown that the government has practically run out of ideas about how to meet the problem faced by the economy. Firstly, there seems to be a sense of denial that the Finance Minister has shown about the growth slowdown in the economy. He has talked about the fact that he &lsquo;hopes to grow at 7.2% to 7.5% in the second half&rsquo;. But the Finance Minister has forgotten to state that the advanced estimates of the Central Statistic Office already pegs the growth rate of the economy at 6.1% (in terms of Gross Value Added) for the whole year. The fact that the FM did not report this in his speech only shows his denial mood.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Since Jaitley is in the denial mode it was easy for him to predict that &ldquo;We are now firmly on course to achieve high growth of 8% plus&rdquo;. This assessment, however, is not shared by the Economic Survey, which rather states that such a turn around &lsquo;cannot be taken for granted&rsquo;. The budget, however, seems to indicate that the government has no well thought out the roadmap towards bringing in such a turnaround. It has relied more on rhetoric than on substance in this budget.

&nbsp;

This reliance on rhetoric is most visible in the case of agriculture and rural development. The FM has spent a significantly large part of his time on discussing agriculture and rural development. He has declared that &ldquo;In the year 2018-19, for creation of livelihood and infrastructure in rural areas, total amount to be spent by the Ministries will be Rs. 14.34 lakh crore&rdquo;.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

This huge sum seems to have bowled the media into characterising this as a major boost for the rural areas. This, however, is nothing but jugglery with numbers. What this number includes is Rs 11 lakh crore as agriculture credit. It must be remembered that credit is not government expenditure. You take credit from banks only to return them back. It does not go out of government budget.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Already, in 2017-18 the target for agriculture credit was set at Rs 10 lakh crore, out of which Rs 5.88 lakh crore credit was disbursed from banks till September 30, 2017. Another Rs 1 lakh crore of agriculture credit is not going to solve the problem. In fact, a large part of the problem is in terms of loans that farmers have taken and are not being able to return them. The government has said nothing about waiving those loans, which has been a major demand of the recent farmer movements.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

However, it has announced that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) paid to the farmers will be 1.5 times their cost of production. This has been done purportedly to increase farmers&rsquo; income. It must, however, be pointed out that in 2016-17 out of the total production of wheat in the country, around 23% was procured by the government, for rice the number was around 34%. In other words, most of the crops are not sold to the government. How far the government is going to procure food grains through MSP remains to be seen.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Going beyond the rhetoric a look at the data suggests that far from increasing the expenditures in agriculture and rural development, the expenditure on agriculture, rural development and irrigation as a share of GDP will remain stagnant at 1.6% of GDP between 2017-18 Revised Estimates (RE)&nbsp; and 2018-19 Budget Estimates (BE). In short, therefore, there is no push being provided to the rural areas or agriculture. The Economic Survey had pointed out that the Gross Capital Formation (or investment) has witnessed a decline as a share of agriculture GVA. The government, however, is not doing much to reverse that decline. Moreover, with all the talk about providing employment in rural areas, the government has not increased the allocation for the MGNREGA even by a rupee!

&nbsp;

The other area where the FM gave significant emphasis was on health and education. In fact, he declared a health scheme which will give Rs 5 lakh cover for hospitalisation to be provided to 10 crore families belonging to the poorer sections. The idea of providing insurance coverage to the poor by paying premiums to the insurance company is not what universal health care is about.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Instead of spending the money on insurance companies and through them to the private healthcare sector, the government should have increased the allocation on health. However, nothing much has been done in this regard. The expenditure on health will only increase from Rs 53198 crore (2017-18RE) to Rs 54667 (2018-19BE) crore or by only Rs 1469 crore, which is not even near the expenditure that is required to go in for the proposed health scheme. Thus, even in this case, the tall words of the FM are not backed by budgetary resources.

&nbsp;

On the fiscal front, as we had predicted earlier, the government has failed to meet the fiscal deficit target of 3.2%, with the final number stated to be 3.5% of GDP. But because the government is committed to its policy of fiscal conservatism it has again decided to reduce the fiscal deficit to 3.3% of GDP in 2018-19.&nbsp; This is being projected on the basis of two factors. Firstly, the budgeted total expenditure of the government as a share of GDP will decline from 13.3% of GDP (2017-18 RE) to 12.9% (2018-19 BE). Secondly, the government is projecting a huge increase in GST collection amounting to more than Rs 6 lakh crore, while the collection in this fiscal was around Rs 2.2 lakh crore.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

This comes on the backdrop of the assumption that the nominal growth rate of GDP will be 11.5%. If this falls short, the GST collections will suffer. Moreover, oil prices are rising in the international market, which will exert downward pressure on the growth rate, since India is a net importer of oil. The excise duties on oil might have to be reduced to give relief to the people. All this can seriously jeopardise the fiscal deficit and revenue projects of the government.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The government, as predicted in my earlier piece, did not go for increasing the direct taxes through wealth tax or increasing the tax rate on the corporates. They have rationalised long term capital gain tax which is estimated to generate revenue worth Rs 20000 crore this fiscal. The budget has also reduced tax rate to 25% for companies with an annual turnover of up to Rs 250 crore. The idea of boosting investment through tax concessions is a time-tested one and evidence shows that such tax concessions have a very limited impact on investment. Rather, the government could have taken definitive steps to solve the bad loan problem. But such decisive steps were clearly lacking in the budget.

&nbsp;

In the ultimate analysis, the budget will do precious little for addressing the serious issues affecting the economy. Being high on rhetoric, however, the propaganda machinery of the ruling party and government will project this as a people-friendly budget in an election year. The politics will play itself out, while the much promised &lsquo;ache din&rsquo; for the economy and common people, will remain elusive.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Finance Minister has relied more on rhetoric than on substance in this budget.

In my pre-budget piece written for WION, I had pointed towards at least three sets of challenges faced by the Modi government, on the eve of the budget—firstly, the issue of a growth and investment slowdown; secondly, the problem of revenue generation and thirdly, the problem of rural distress. It was predicted in the piece that the government will have a tough time in meeting these three challenges simultaneously given the limited elbow room that it is facing in the economic sphere. The budget placed by the Finance Minister today has only shown that the government has practically run out of ideas about how to meet the problem faced by the economy. Firstly, there seems to be a sense of denial that the Finance Minister has shown about the growth slowdown in the economy. He has talked about the fact that he ‘hopes to grow at 7.2% to 7.5% in the second half’. But the Finance Minister has forgotten to state that the advanced estimates of the Central Statistic Office already pegs the growth rate of the economy at 6.1% (in terms of Gross Value Added) for the whole year. The fact that the FM did not report this in his speech only shows his denial mood. Since Jaitley is in the denial mode it was easy for him to predict that “We are now firmly on course to achieve high growth of 8% plus”. This assessment, however, is not shared by the Economic Survey, which rather states that such a turn around ‘cannot be taken for granted’. The budget, however, seems to indicate that the government has no well thought out the roadmap towards bringing in such a turnaround. It has relied more on rhetoric than on substance in this budget. This reliance on rhetoric is most visible in the case of agriculture and rural development. The FM has spent a significantly large part of his time on discussing agriculture and rural development. He has declared that “In the year 2018-19, for creation of livelihood and infrastructure in rural areas, total amount to be spent by the Ministries will be Rs. 14.34 lakh crore”. This huge sum seems to have bowled the media into characterising this as a major boost for the rural areas. This, however, is nothing but jugglery with numbers. What this number includes is Rs 11 lakh crore as agriculture credit. It must be remembered that credit is not government expenditure. You take credit from banks only to return them back. It does not go out of government budget. Already, in 2017-18 the target for agriculture credit was set at Rs 10 lakh crore, out of which Rs 5.88 lakh crore credit was disbursed from banks till September 30, 2017. Another Rs 1 lakh crore of agriculture credit is not going to solve the problem. In fact, a large part of the problem is in terms of loans that farmers have taken and are not being able to return them. The government has said nothing about waiving those loans, which has been a major demand of the recent farmer movements. However, it has announced that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) paid to the farmers will be 1.5 times their cost of production. This has been done purportedly to increase farmers’ income. It must, however, be pointed out that in 2016-17 out of the total production of wheat in the country, around 23% was procured by the government, for rice the number was around 34%. In other words, most of the crops are not sold to the government. How far the government is going to procure food grains through MSP remains to be seen. Going beyond the rhetoric a look at the data suggests that far from increasing the expenditures in agriculture and rural development, the expenditure on agriculture, rural development and irrigation as a share of GDP will remain stagnant at 1.6% of GDP between 2017-18 Revised Estimates (RE) and 2018-19 Budget Estimates (BE). In short, therefore, there is no push being provided to the rural areas or agriculture. The Economic Survey had pointed out that the Gross Capital Formation (or investment) has witnessed a decline as a share of agriculture GVA. The government, however, is not doing much to reverse that decline. Moreover, with all the talk about providing employment in rural areas, the government has not increased the allocation for the MGNREGA even by a rupee! The other area where the FM gave significant emphasis was on health and education. In fact, he declared a health scheme which will give Rs 5 lakh cover for hospitalisation to be provided to 10 crore families belonging to the poorer sections. The idea of providing insurance coverage to the poor by paying premiums to the insurance company is not what universal health care is about. Instead of spending the money on insurance companies and through them to the private healthcare sector, the government should have increased the allocation on health. However, nothing much has been done in this regard. The expenditure on health will only increase from Rs 53198 crore (2017-18RE) to Rs 54667 (2018-19BE) crore or by only Rs 1469 crore, which is not even near the expenditure that is required to go in for the proposed health scheme. Thus, even in this case, the tall words of the FM are not backed by budgetary resources. On the fiscal front, as we had predicted earlier, the government has failed to meet the fiscal deficit target of 3.2%, with the final number stated to be 3.5% of GDP. But because the government is committed to its policy of fiscal conservatism it has again decided to reduce the fiscal deficit to 3.3% of GDP in 2018-19. This is being projected on the basis of two factors. Firstly, the budgeted total expenditure of the government as a share of GDP will decline from 13.3% of GDP (2017-18 RE) to 12.9% (2018-19 BE). Secondly, the government is projecting a huge increase in GST collection amounting to more than Rs 6 lakh crore, while the collection in this fiscal was around Rs 2.2 lakh crore. This comes on the backdrop of the assumption that the nominal growth rate of GDP will be 11.5%. If this falls short, the GST collections will suffer. Moreover, oil prices are rising in the international market, which will exert downward pressure on the growth rate, since India is a net importer of oil. The excise duties on oil might have to be reduced to give relief to the people. All this can seriously jeopardise the fiscal deficit and revenue projects of the government. The government, as predicted in my earlier piece, did not go for increasing the direct taxes through wealth tax or increasing the tax rate on the corporates. They have rationalised long term capital gain tax which is estimated to generate revenue worth Rs 20000 crore this fiscal. The budget has also reduced tax rate to 25% for companies with an annual turnover of up to Rs 250 crore. The idea of boosting investment through tax concessions is a time-tested one and evidence shows that such tax concessions have a very limited impact on investment. Rather, the government could have taken definitive steps to solve the bad loan problem. But such decisive steps were clearly lacking in the budget. In the ultimate analysis, the budget will do precious little for addressing the serious issues affecting the economy. Being high on rhetoric, however, the propaganda machinery of the ruling party and government will project this as a people-friendly budget in an election year. The politics will play itself out, while the much promised ‘ache din’ for the economy and common people, will remain elusive. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Paying premium to insurance companies is not universal health care

Amidst all the &ldquo;last budget&rdquo; euphoria and the high expectations from the general public of it, the budget outlay details for the Indian Railway went relatively unnoticed. And possibly this was the prime reason for merging the Railways budget with the Union budget. Significant reforms are needed in Indian Railways whilst keeping populism at bay.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Railways budget has been bumped up from 1.31 lakh crores in 2017-18 to 1.48 lakh crores in 2018-19, an increase of nearly 13%. This substantial increase went mostly under the radar as no fanfare projects like new train announcements were announced. Much of the outlay is towards upgrading the current infrastructure to achieve higher average speeds. Elimination of unmanned road crossings, old track replacement and track strengthening are much needed as the frequency of infrastructure breakdowns have already resulted in an increase in the number of accidents. The 19th January incident near Murad Nagar would also force Railways to rethink plans for enhancing the safety of the infrastructure. The outlay towards safety has been increasing by 6.3% (73065 Cr from 68725 Cr) over the last year&nbsp;

&nbsp;

A significant portion of the budget has been earmarked for upgrading all the 8500 stations with CCTV cameras and escalators for all stations with footfalls more than 25000. CCTV cameras would also be installed in the entire fleet of rolling stock. Fund allocation for increasing rolling stock procurement emphasizes the commitment to upgrading infrastructure. Modern train sets are expected to roll out from the Integrated Coach Factory in Chennai in 2018-19. Mumbai and Bangalore suburban railway networks have also been highlighted for special focus.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

These investments are likely to kick in private investments as well, especially in the station redevelopment process. With an operating ratio of 96% (94.8% target), Railways still needs to increase overall revenues. A 92.8% operating ratio target for 2018-19 seems too ambitious. On the revenue front, the Railway Fare Review committee is yet to be formed. Though overall revenue is up by 7.3%, freight loading is up only by 4.3% (1216 million tonnes from 1165). A detailed review of fare revenue (passenger and freight) and non-fare revenue should help make a true assessment of customers&rsquo; view of Railways as a freight transporter.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Possibly, the low passenger fares would still continue to crowd out freight share, as the service commitment to the freight customers is still low. Dedicated freight corridors, as mentioned in the budget might help alleviate the situation, but they are still far from completion.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Infrastructure upgrade is also aimed at lessening the delays in train arrivals. Railways could possibly also consider a hub-and-spoke mechanism of travel within the country, but a significant focus would have to be given to punctuality as well as accessibility at interchange stations.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Transportation infrastructure investments have been a key focus of the BJP government since coming to power. Holistically, the Railways future plans must be seen in the overall context of transportation including roads, airways and waterways. A unified system of transportation should ease the issues of traversing this vast country, quickly and inexpensively. Overall, the budget holds steady on the promise of capacity augmentation and infrastructure upgrade. The effectiveness of implementation remains to be seen.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Overall, the Union Budget holds steady on the promise of capacity augmentation and infrastructure upgrade. However, the effectiveness of implementation remains to be seen.

Amidst all the “last budget” euphoria and the high expectations from the general public of it, the budget outlay details for the Indian Railway went relatively unnoticed. And possibly this was the prime reason for merging the Railways budget with the Union budget. Significant reforms are needed in Indian Railways whilst keeping populism at bay. The Railways budget has been bumped up from 1.31 lakh crores in 2017-18 to 1.48 lakh crores in 2018-19, an increase of nearly 13%. This substantial increase went mostly under the radar as no fanfare projects like new train announcements were announced. Much of the outlay is towards upgrading the current infrastructure to achieve higher average speeds. Elimination of unmanned road crossings, old track replacement and track strengthening are much needed as the frequency of infrastructure breakdowns have already resulted in an increase in the number of accidents. The 19th January incident near Murad Nagar would also force Railways to rethink plans for enhancing the safety of the infrastructure. The outlay towards safety has been increasing by 6.3% (73065 Cr from 68725 Cr) over the last year A significant portion of the budget has been earmarked for upgrading all the 8500 stations with CCTV cameras and escalators for all stations with footfalls more than 25000. CCTV cameras would also be installed in the entire fleet of rolling stock. Fund allocation for increasing rolling stock procurement emphasizes the commitment to upgrading infrastructure. Modern train sets are expected to roll out from the Integrated Coach Factory in Chennai in 2018-19. Mumbai and Bangalore suburban railway networks have also been highlighted for special focus. These investments are likely to kick in private investments as well, especially in the station redevelopment process. With an operating ratio of 96% (94.8% target), Railways still needs to increase overall revenues. A 92.8% operating ratio target for 2018-19 seems too ambitious. On the revenue front, the Railway Fare Review committee is yet to be formed. Though overall revenue is up by 7.3%, freight loading is up only by 4.3% (1216 million tonnes from 1165). A detailed review of fare revenue (passenger and freight) and non-fare revenue should help make a true assessment of customers’ view of Railways as a freight transporter. Possibly, the low passenger fares would still continue to crowd out freight share, as the service commitment to the freight customers is still low. Dedicated freight corridors, as mentioned in the budget might help alleviate the situation, but they are still far from completion. Infrastructure upgrade is also aimed at lessening the delays in train arrivals. Railways could possibly also consider a hub-and-spoke mechanism of travel within the country, but a significant focus would have to be given to punctuality as well as accessibility at interchange stations. Transportation infrastructure investments have been a key focus of the BJP government since coming to power. Holistically, the Railways future plans must be seen in the overall context of transportation including roads, airways and waterways. A unified system of transportation should ease the issues of traversing this vast country, quickly and inexpensively. Overall, the budget holds steady on the promise of capacity augmentation and infrastructure upgrade. The effectiveness of implementation remains to be seen. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Union Budget invested in Railways without giving in to populism

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