Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday cautioned the ex-servicemen of the country and requested them to not to believe on rumours.

"I request you to please do not believe in people who spread rumours, please be aware. We need to reject those who use simplicity and sincerity of soldiers to mislead, "she said while addressing to the ex-servicemen in Dehradun.

Praising her government for the war memorial she further said, "For the last 60 years a National War Memorial was pending, we have had four major wars so far, there wasn't a single war memorial at national level dedicated to the martyrs of all those wars. A war memorial was dedicated to the forces this February".

Her comments came amid the rising speculations by the oppositions over the number of deaths caused in Pakistan after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-chief-amit-shah-says-more-than-250-terrorists-killed-in-aerial-strike-against-jem-201061">IAF airstrike</a> on February 26.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26 launched pre-emptive airstrikes at a large Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror training camp in Balakot in Pakistan.&nbsp;

The airstrikes were undertaken in retaliation to the terror attack in Pulwama in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. JeM had claimed responsibility for the attack.

On February 28, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had asked the government to spell out "details" of the exact place where the air raid was carried out and the casualties inflicted, stating that international media claimed that there was no damage in the strike.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday cautioned the ex-servicemen of the country and requested them to not to believe on rumours. "I request you to please do not believe in people who spread rumours, please be aware.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday cautioned the ex-servicemen of the country and requested them to not to believe on rumours. "I request you to please do not believe in people who spread rumours, please be aware. We need to reject those who use simplicity and sincerity of soldiers to mislead, "she said while addressing to the ex-servicemen in Dehradun. Praising her government for the war memorial she further said, "For the last 60 years a National War Memorial was pending, we have had four major wars so far, there wasn't a single war memorial at national level dedicated to the martyrs of all those wars. A war memorial was dedicated to the forces this February". Her comments came amid the rising speculations by the oppositions over the number of deaths caused in Pakistan after the IAF airstrike on February 26. The Indian Air Force (IAF) on February 26 launched pre-emptive airstrikes at a large Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror training camp in Balakot in Pakistan. The airstrikes were undertaken in retaliation to the terror attack in Pulwama in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. JeM had claimed responsibility for the attack. On February 28, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had asked the government to spell out "details" of the exact place where the air raid was carried out and the casualties inflicted, stating that international media claimed that there was no damage in the strike.

Do not believe in people who spread rumours: Nirmala Sitharaman to ex-servicemen

Indian defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman meets IAF pilot Abhinandan

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoygu called his Indian counterpart Nirmala Sitharaman to express condolences for the Pulwama terror attack and further strengthened the military cooperation between the two countries.

“Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoygu called Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to express condolences for the Pulwama attack and emphasized on the determination to strengthen Indo-Russian military cooperation,” the Defence Ministry of India tweeted.

Over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel lost their lives after a suicide bomber rammed his explosive-laden vehicle into the convoy of the security forces in Pulwama in South Kashmir.

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a terror outfit based in Pakistan, claimed the responsibility of orchestrating the attack.

On February 26, India carried out air strike on a JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, following which Jammu and Kashmir saw heightened military activity from February 27 onwards.

Pakistani jets violated the Indian air space and dropped some bombs in Rajouri sector after which one of their fighters was shot down.

Early on February 28, India also claimed it foiled an attempt by Pakistan Air Force to carry out strikes in Jammu and Kashmir by shooting down an F-16 fighter plane.

On the same day, Russian President Vladimir Putin also telephoned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed his condolences on the ghastly terror attack.

He further conveyed solidarity of the people of Russia with the people of India in the fight against terrorism.Both leaders also agreed that the concerned (Pakistan) should stop all support to terrorism.&nbsp;

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoygu called his Indian counterpart Nirmala Sitharaman to express condolences for the Pulwama terror attack and further strengthened the military cooperation between the two countries.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoygu called his Indian counterpart Nirmala Sitharaman to express condolences for the Pulwama terror attack and further strengthened the military cooperation between the two countries. “Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoygu called Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to express condolences for the Pulwama attack and emphasized on the determination to strengthen Indo-Russian military cooperation,” the Defence Ministry of India tweeted. Over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel lost their lives after a suicide bomber rammed his explosive-laden vehicle into the convoy of the security forces in Pulwama in South Kashmir. Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a terror outfit based in Pakistan, claimed the responsibility of orchestrating the attack. On February 26, India carried out air strike on a JeM training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, following which Jammu and Kashmir saw heightened military activity from February 27 onwards. Pakistani jets violated the Indian air space and dropped some bombs in Rajouri sector after which one of their fighters was shot down. Early on February 28, India also claimed it foiled an attempt by Pakistan Air Force to carry out strikes in Jammu and Kashmir by shooting down an F-16 fighter plane. On the same day, Russian President Vladimir Putin also telephoned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and expressed his condolences on the ghastly terror attack. He further conveyed solidarity of the people of Russia with the people of India in the fight against terrorism.Both leaders also agreed that the concerned (Pakistan) should stop all support to terrorism.

Russian defence minister calls up Nirmala Sitharaman, expresses condolence over Pulwama attack

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday.&nbsp;

Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi.&nbsp;

Abhinandan was captured by the Pakistanis on February 27 after his MiG 21 Bison was shot down during a dogfight with Pakistani jets; he was however able to shoot down a Pakistani F-16 before that.&nbsp;

The news agency PTI quoted officials as saying Abhinandan is currently undergoing a series of medical tests as part of a "cooling down" process which is expected to continue till Sunday. Once, the health check up is over, the officials said, Abhinandan will be debriefed.&nbsp;

Abhinandan arrived in the national capital around 11:45 PM Friday and soon after was taken to the Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME), a compact and specialised medical evaluation centre for aircrew of all the three services.

Early Saturday morning, Varthaman met immediate family members as well as several top officials of the Indian Air Force, the officials said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a>: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthman and his family at RR hospital in Delhi earlier today. <a href="https://t.co/BMGKqgLYDA">pic.twitter.com/BMGKqgLYDA</a>
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Videos that appeared on social media after Abhinandan's capture showed him being beaten by Pakistani villagers before he was rescued by Pakistani army personnel. When he crossed over to India Friday night, Abhinandan's right eye above his handlebar moustache appeared swollen.&nbsp;

Ex-servicemen and strategic affairs experts have said the courage and grace Abhinandan showed while in captivity were exemplary.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Abhinandan's return, saying the nation is proud of his courage.

"Welcome Home Wing Commander Abhinandan! <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/nation-is-proud-of-your-exemplary-courage-pm-modi-on-iaf-pilot-abhinandan-200592">The nation is proud of your exemplary courage</a>. Our armed forces are an inspiration for 130 crore Indians," Modi tweeted Friday night.&nbsp;

Tensions between the India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighter jets bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near the town of Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday.&nbsp;

Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Indian strike on the JeM camp came 12 days after the terror group claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">which killed at least 40 soldiers</a>.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday. Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday. Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi. Abhinandan was captured by the Pakistanis on February 27 after his MiG 21 Bison was shot down during a dogfight with Pakistani jets; he was however able to shoot down a Pakistani F-16 before that. The news agency PTI quoted officials as saying Abhinandan is currently undergoing a series of medical tests as part of a "cooling down" process which is expected to continue till Sunday. Once, the health check up is over, the officials said, Abhinandan will be debriefed. Abhinandan arrived in the national capital around 11:45 PM Friday and soon after was taken to the Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME), a compact and specialised medical evaluation centre for aircrew of all the three services. Early Saturday morning, Varthaman met immediate family members as well as several top officials of the Indian Air Force, the officials said. #Visuals: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthman and his family at RR hospital in Delhi earlier today. pic.twitter.com/BMGKqgLYDA — ANI (@ANI) March 2, 2019 × Videos that appeared on social media after Abhinandan's capture showed him being beaten by Pakistani villagers before he was rescued by Pakistani army personnel. When he crossed over to India Friday night, Abhinandan's right eye above his handlebar moustache appeared swollen. Ex-servicemen and strategic affairs experts have said the courage and grace Abhinandan showed while in captivity were exemplary. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Abhinandan's return, saying the nation is proud of his courage. "Welcome Home Wing Commander Abhinandan! The nation is proud of your exemplary courage. Our armed forces are an inspiration for 130 crore Indians," Modi tweeted Friday night. Tensions between the India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighter jets bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near the town of Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations on Wednesday. The Indian strike on the JeM camp came 12 days after the terror group claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir which killed at least 40 soldiers. (With inputs from PTI)

Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling down' process, is met by Nirmala Sitharaman

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/enhance-security-government-issues-alert-to-at-all-airports-airlines-200723">Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines</a>

The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-india-vs-australia-1st-odi-at-rajiv-gandhi-international-stadium-200657">Live updates | INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Dhawan out for nought, India are 4/1 after 2 overs</a>

Nathan Coulter-Nile to Dhawan, caught out by Maxwell.&nbsp;

It's no doubt a big wicket for Australia and it might create pressure on the India side.&nbsp;

Skipper Kohli comes to the crease.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-meets-wing-commander-abhinandan-he-is-currently-undergoing-cooling-process-200730">Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling process', is met by Nirmala Sitharaman</a>

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday.&nbsp;

Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">SpaceX astronaut capsule separates from </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">rocket</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dragon-capsule-successfully-separates-from-rocket-spacex-200705">, is en route to International Space Station</a>

NASA and SpaceX celebrated the successful launch Saturday of a new astronaut capsule on a week-long round trip to the International Space Station -- a key step towards resuming manned space flights from US soil after an eight-year break.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/samjhauta-express-services-restored-train-to-run-from-india-on-sunday-railways-200726">Samjhauta Express services restored; train to run from India to Pak to Sunday</a>

The Samjhauta Express will leave for Pakistan from Delhi on Sunday after the two neighbours agreed to operationalise services at their ends, a senior railway official told PTI.

The announcement came a day after Pakistan released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments.

Enhance security, Indian government issues alert to all airports, airlines The government on Saturday issued an "alert" for all airports and airlines in the country, asking them to "enhance the existing security measures", as it has received intelligence inputs in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack and subsequent developments. Live updates | INDvsAUS, 1st ODI: Dhawan out for nought, India are 4/1 after 2 overs Nathan Coulter-Nile to Dhawan, caught out by Maxwell. It's no doubt a big wicket for Australia and it might create pressure on the India side. Skipper Kohli comes to the crease. Wing Commander Abhinandan undergoing 'cooling process', is met by Nirmala Sitharaman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman on Saturday. Abhinandan was released from Pakistani custody on Friday night and has since then been kept at the Air Force Central Medical Establishment in Delhi. SpaceX astronaut capsule separates from rocket, is en route to International Space Station NASA and SpaceX celebrated the successful launch Saturday of a new astronaut capsule on a week-long round trip to the International Space Station -- a key step towards resuming manned space flights from US soil after an eight-year break. Samjhauta Express services restored; train to run from India to Pak to Sunday The Samjhauta Express will leave for Pakistan from Delhi on Sunday after the two neighbours agreed to operationalise services at their ends, a senior railway official told PTI. The announcement came a day after Pakistan released Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the country would face a setback of 50 years if Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not return to power.

"If we are laid back and if you lose the momentum for having a strong good majority government, we will be facing a setback of 50 years at least," Sitharaman said while speaking at an informal interaction organised by Thinkers Forum in Bengaluru on Sunday.

Sitharaman added that India would be disfavouring first-time voters if the BJP's work is not recognised.

"And for those of us who were born in the 20th century, we will be doing a disservice to those who will be voting for the first time. Are we going to do disfavour for the youth of this country by bringing back forces that have absolutely no delectation to this country and dedication to clean politics and dedication to putting the nation before themselves?" she asked.

Lauding Prime Minister Modi, the Defence Minister said, "In the history of any nation, it's not very often that you get a leadership like what you have got know."

She claimed that there was not even a whisper of corruption from 2014-2019.

"Last five years have been intense working. You see the Prime Minister without a day's break working and all of us from our ministries being pulled up and inspired. One very obvious and noteworthy difference between the previous and current government is that there was not a whisper of corruption under Modi ji's tenure. So that's why the Congress president (Rahul Gandhi) probably feels the need to point out or pick issues," she said.

Stating that the 2019 Lok Sabha elections were essential for India, she said, "2019 elections to the Lok Sabha is certainly not just any other election. And in this election, we really cannot take it lightly. We each will have to be a campaigner. We have to do 10 times more than what we have done in 2013-14. The BJP will fight an election. Particularly, under the leadership of Modi ji, we will definitely give a very good fight and win."

Sitharaman also said that the opposition's allegations were not based on facts and they could stoop to any level to levy allegations on the BJP government.

"All facts checked, it is true that between 2014 and today vis-a-vis 2004 and 2013, except for Kashmir, has there been any terrorist/minor bomb attack anywhere else in the country? Let's talk on facts. Opposition allegations are not based on facts and they could stoop to any level to make allegations."

"There could have been truth in the allegations that India would run out of ammunition if there was a continuous war for 10 days. But in the last five years, things have changed. The problems of the defence sector were so severe that the forces did not have bulletproof jackets, ammunition for tankers and technology upgradation for the Air Force. For the first two years, Mr Manohar Parrikar spent time understanding the problems of the forces. Next, Mr Arun Jaitley prepared a report on that. After I took over, I could take it forward, as the report was ready."

Responding to a question on the dastardly Pulwama terror attack, Sitharaman said that the anger, disappointment and the emotions of the people to strike back are well absorbed by the government and the Prime Minister.

"Pakistan is the fountainhead of terrorism not just against India but many parts of the globe. Pakistan feels very much under stress since it had been economically isolated by the world community. More can be done on this front," she said.

Attacking Congress President Rahul Gandhi over the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said that during 10 years of UPA rule, not even a single aircraft was added to the Air Force, and added that during Prime Minister Modi's tenure, a due process was followed and all the details were given to the Supreme Court and Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) regarding the Rafale deal. "September 19 your first Rafale is coming into this country," said Sitharaman.&nbsp;

Ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the country would face a setback of 50 years if Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not return to power.

Ahead of the crucial Lok Sabha elections, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the country would face a setback of 50 years if Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not return to power. "If we are laid back and if you lose the momentum for having a strong good majority government, we will be facing a setback of 50 years at least," Sitharaman said while speaking at an informal interaction organised by Thinkers Forum in Bengaluru on Sunday. Sitharaman added that India would be disfavouring first-time voters if the BJP's work is not recognised. "And for those of us who were born in the 20th century, we will be doing a disservice to those who will be voting for the first time. Are we going to do disfavour for the youth of this country by bringing back forces that have absolutely no delectation to this country and dedication to clean politics and dedication to putting the nation before themselves?" she asked. Lauding Prime Minister Modi, the Defence Minister said, "In the history of any nation, it's not very often that you get a leadership like what you have got know." She claimed that there was not even a whisper of corruption from 2014-2019. "Last five years have been intense working. You see the Prime Minister without a day's break working and all of us from our ministries being pulled up and inspired. One very obvious and noteworthy difference between the previous and current government is that there was not a whisper of corruption under Modi ji's tenure. So that's why the Congress president (Rahul Gandhi) probably feels the need to point out or pick issues," she said. Stating that the 2019 Lok Sabha elections were essential for India, she said, "2019 elections to the Lok Sabha is certainly not just any other election. And in this election, we really cannot take it lightly. We each will have to be a campaigner. We have to do 10 times more than what we have done in 2013-14. The BJP will fight an election. Particularly, under the leadership of Modi ji, we will definitely give a very good fight and win." Sitharaman also said that the opposition's allegations were not based on facts and they could stoop to any level to levy allegations on the BJP government. "All facts checked, it is true that between 2014 and today vis-a-vis 2004 and 2013, except for Kashmir, has there been any terrorist/minor bomb attack anywhere else in the country? Let's talk on facts. Opposition allegations are not based on facts and they could stoop to any level to make allegations." "There could have been truth in the allegations that India would run out of ammunition if there was a continuous war for 10 days. But in the last five years, things have changed. The problems of the defence sector were so severe that the forces did not have bulletproof jackets, ammunition for tankers and technology upgradation for the Air Force. For the first two years, Mr Manohar Parrikar spent time understanding the problems of the forces. Next, Mr Arun Jaitley prepared a report on that. After I took over, I could take it forward, as the report was ready." Responding to a question on the dastardly Pulwama terror attack, Sitharaman said that the anger, disappointment and the emotions of the people to strike back are well absorbed by the government and the Prime Minister. "Pakistan is the fountainhead of terrorism not just against India but many parts of the globe. Pakistan feels very much under stress since it had been economically isolated by the world community. More can be done on this front," she said. Attacking Congress President Rahul Gandhi over the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said that during 10 years of UPA rule, not even a single aircraft was added to the Air Force, and added that during Prime Minister Modi's tenure, a due process was followed and all the details were given to the Supreme Court and Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) regarding the Rafale deal. "September 19 your first Rafale is coming into this country," said Sitharaman.

Country will face setback of 50 years if Modi not voted to power: Sitharaman

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

Indian Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Swedish Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist on Wednesday signed a security protection agreement in Stockholm. &nbsp;

The pact will provide a facilitating framework for greater cooperation on the high end and cutting edge technology and manufacturing.

The signing of the security protection agreement by both countries will enable them to share classified information with each other on defence and security. Sweden has had similar agreements with over 30 countries around the world, as well as with the EU and NATO.

Later at a joint press conference, Hultqvist said, "The agreement that I and Shrimati Nirmala Sitharaman signed today is an important step in implementing the action plan on deeper cooperation with India".

Explaining the agreement, Swedish defence ministry told WION that it "regulates how sensitive information is to be handled, processed and protected. One good example when such an agreement is needed is when a company from one nation offers i.e.high tech weapons systems to another nation."

Asked if two sides discussed reported deal for Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, Swedish defence ministry said no such discussions happened.&nbsp;

Asked on how the agreement will boost "Make in India" in Defence sector, Sitharaman said, "I think it gives a very good framework which the two countries have agreed upon -- to have greater collaboration on technical and innovation which will lead to joint activities with direct bearing on the make in India."&nbsp;

India has also proposed a dialogue to enable a greater understanding of the successful model of collaboration between government, industry and academia in building technologically advance ecosystem.&nbsp;

Sitharaman also met Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Löfven and thanked his country support for India's bid United Nation Security Council and multilateral export control regime--Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).

Since 2009 when Sweden and India had signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the area of defence, seven bilateral meetings have been taken place under the MoU, the last in December 2018 in Delhi.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited Stockholm and took part in the first India Nordic summit in April 2018. He also held a bilateral meet with PM Löfven during which both sides jointly signed an action plan for future cooperation. 
&nbsp;

Indian Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Swedish Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist on Wednesday signed a security protection agreement in Stockholm. The pact will provide a facilitating framework for greater cooperation on the high end and cutting edge technology and manufacturing.

Indian Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Swedish Defence Minister Peter Hultqvist on Wednesday signed a security protection agreement in Stockholm. The pact will provide a facilitating framework for greater cooperation on the high end and cutting edge technology and manufacturing. The signing of the security protection agreement by both countries will enable them to share classified information with each other on defence and security. Sweden has had similar agreements with over 30 countries around the world, as well as with the EU and NATO. Later at a joint press conference, Hultqvist said, "The agreement that I and Shrimati Nirmala Sitharaman signed today is an important step in implementing the action plan on deeper cooperation with India". Explaining the agreement, Swedish defence ministry told WION that it "regulates how sensitive information is to be handled, processed and protected. One good example when such an agreement is needed is when a company from one nation offers i.e.high tech weapons systems to another nation." Asked if two sides discussed reported deal for Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets, Swedish defence ministry said no such discussions happened. Asked on how the agreement will boost "Make in India" in Defence sector, Sitharaman said, "I think it gives a very good framework which the two countries have agreed upon -- to have greater collaboration on technical and innovation which will lead to joint activities with direct bearing on the make in India." India has also proposed a dialogue to enable a greater understanding of the successful model of collaboration between government, industry and academia in building technologically advance ecosystem. Sitharaman also met Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Löfven and thanked his country support for India's bid United Nation Security Council and multilateral export control regime--Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). Since 2009 when Sweden and India had signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the area of defence, seven bilateral meetings have been taken place under the MoU, the last in December 2018 in Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited Stockholm and took part in the first India Nordic summit in April 2018. He also held a bilateral meet with PM Löfven during which both sides jointly signed an action plan for future cooperation.

India, Sweden sign key pacts on technology, manufacturing

India's defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman rubbishes newspaper report; hits back at Rahul Gandhi

Defence Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-flogging-a-dead-horse-says-sitharaman-after-uproar-in-parliament-over-rafale-196013">Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday</a> described a media report on Rafale deal as "slanderous". The report published by a leading Indian daily stated that the defence ministry objected to the "parallel negotiations" by the Prime Minister's Office into the deal.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Sitharaman brought to notice the comments made by the then defence minister Manohar Parrikar on the MoD dissent note. She alleged that the publication "conveniently" decided not to report Parrikar's comments.&nbsp;

In a copy of the Ministry of Defence' dissent note on Rafale negotiations accessed by news agency ANI, Parrikar noted, "It appears PMO and French President office are monitoring the progress of the issue which was an outcome of the summit meeting. Para 5 appears to be an over-reaction".

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ANI accesses the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar’s reply to MoD dissent note on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> negotiations. "Defence Secretary (G Mohan) may resolve the matter in consultation with Principal Secretary to PM" <a href="https://t.co/yXGQJNiDvB">pic.twitter.com/yXGQJNiDvB</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093768778448556032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In a written remark on the note Parrikar further added, "remain calm, nothing to worry, everything is going alright".

Ex-defence secretary G Mohan Kumar, who at the time handled negotiations on Rafale, told ANI that whatever has been brought out by media reports had nothing to do with the pricing issue.

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“It was incumbent on the newspaper, the Hindu to put the reply of then Raksha Mantri Shri Parrikar on record too in its story but they omitted it.” 
 
Watch full statement by Raksha Mantri Smt. <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> in Lok Sabha today on a malicious news report published on the Rafale deal. <a href="https://t.co/MwecghzTY7">pic.twitter.com/MwecghzTY7</a>
— BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India/status/1093780089525817344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It was about sovereign guarantees and general terms and conditions," G Mohan Kumar said.

Meanwhile, Air Marshal SBP Sinha, who headed Rafale negotiations from the Indian side, expressed dissatisfaction over the media report and claimed that "the remarks of the Defence Minister are not there".

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Air Marshal SBP Sinha: Note has nothing to do with Indian team's negotiation on Rafale procurement as this note wasn't initiated by Indian negotiating team. It has been initiated by SK Sharma, who was not part of Indian negotiation team. On whose behest he initiated this note? <a href="https://t.co/ufx5q2xGOK">https://t.co/ufx5q2xGOK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093805121794949120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It was very surprising for me to know that in the article printed today a note within MoD has been used to malign this procurement by concealing facts, the remarks of the Defence Minister are not there," Sinha told news agency ANI.&nbsp;

"The note has nothing to do with Indian team's negotiation on Rafale procurement as this note wasn't initiated by Indian negotiating team. It has been initiated by SK Sharma, who was not part of Indian negotiation team. On whose behest he initiated this note?" Sinha added.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday accused PM Modi of robbing the Indian Air Force of more than four billion dollars.

Gandhi cited a newspaper report that alleged that the Prime Minister's Office held parallel negotiations with France, which the defence ministry had objected to.

The Congress-led Opposition had disrupted the lower house of Parliament after a report claimed the then defence secretary had objected to the PMO allegedly conducting price negotiations with the French company.

Sitharaman said the Opposition was playing into the hands of multinational companies and vested interests and not working in the interests of the Indian Air Force.

India's upper house of Parliament the Rajya Sabha was also disrupted after Congress sought to raise the Rafale issue.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday described a media report on Rafale deal as "slanderous". The report published by a leading Indian daily stated that the defence ministry objected to the "parallel negotiations" by the Prime Minister's Office into the deal.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday described a media report on Rafale deal as "slanderous". The report published by a leading Indian daily stated that the defence ministry objected to the "parallel negotiations" by the Prime Minister's Office into the deal. Sitharaman brought to notice the comments made by the then defence minister Manohar Parrikar on the MoD dissent note. She alleged that the publication "conveniently" decided not to report Parrikar's comments. In a copy of the Ministry of Defence' dissent note on Rafale negotiations accessed by news agency ANI, Parrikar noted, "It appears PMO and French President office are monitoring the progress of the issue which was an outcome of the summit meeting. Para 5 appears to be an over-reaction". ANI accesses the then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar’s reply to MoD dissent note on #Rafale negotiations. "Defence Secretary (G Mohan) may resolve the matter in consultation with Principal Secretary to PM" pic.twitter.com/yXGQJNiDvB — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2019 × In a written remark on the note Parrikar further added, "remain calm, nothing to worry, everything is going alright". Ex-defence secretary G Mohan Kumar, who at the time handled negotiations on Rafale, told ANI that whatever has been brought out by media reports had nothing to do with the pricing issue. “It was incumbent on the newspaper, the Hindu to put the reply of then Raksha Mantri Shri Parrikar on record too in its story but they omitted it.” Watch full statement by Raksha Mantri Smt. @nsitharaman in Lok Sabha today on a malicious news report published on the Rafale deal. pic.twitter.com/MwecghzTY7 — BJP (@BJP4India) February 8, 2019 × "It was about sovereign guarantees and general terms and conditions," G Mohan Kumar said. Meanwhile, Air Marshal SBP Sinha, who headed Rafale negotiations from the Indian side, expressed dissatisfaction over the media report and claimed that "the remarks of the Defence Minister are not there". Air Marshal SBP Sinha: Note has nothing to do with Indian team's negotiation on Rafale procurement as this note wasn't initiated by Indian negotiating team. It has been initiated by SK Sharma, who was not part of Indian negotiation team. On whose behest he initiated this note? https://t.co/ufx5q2xGOK — ANI (@ANI) February 8, 2019 × "It was very surprising for me to know that in the article printed today a note within MoD has been used to malign this procurement by concealing facts, the remarks of the Defence Minister are not there," Sinha told news agency ANI. "The note has nothing to do with Indian team's negotiation on Rafale procurement as this note wasn't initiated by Indian negotiating team. It has been initiated by SK Sharma, who was not part of Indian negotiation team. On whose behest he initiated this note?" Sinha added. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday accused PM Modi of robbing the Indian Air Force of more than four billion dollars. Gandhi cited a newspaper report that alleged that the Prime Minister's Office held parallel negotiations with France, which the defence ministry had objected to. The Congress-led Opposition had disrupted the lower house of Parliament after a report claimed the then defence secretary had objected to the PMO allegedly conducting price negotiations with the French company. Sitharaman said the Opposition was playing into the hands of multinational companies and vested interests and not working in the interests of the Indian Air Force. India's upper house of Parliament the Rajya Sabha was also disrupted after Congress sought to raise the Rafale issue.

'Over reaction... nothing to worry,' said Manohar Parrikar on defence ministry's dissent note on Rafale deal

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and acting Defence Secretary of the United States Patrick M Shanahan has discussed bilateral ties between the two countries in a telephonic conversation, said Defence sources. According to the Defence sources, the discussion between the two leaders took place a couple of days ago.

Shanahan, who was earlier holding the office of the Deputy Secretary of Defence, took charge as Acting US Secretary of Defence from January 1.

Recently in the second week of January, a 2+2 Inter-Sessional meeting was held between the US and India, focusing on the progress of defence and foreign policy issues between the two countries.

The Indian delegation was led jointly by Joint Secretary (AMS) from the Ministry of External Affairs Gourangalal Das, and Joint Secretary (PIC) from the Ministry of Defence, Shambhu S Kumaran.

The US delegation was led jointly by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Alice Wells and Assistant Secretary of Defence Randall Schriver.

The Inter-Sessional meeting was set up to follow up on the decisions taken during the India-US Ministerial 2+2 Dialogue, the first round of which was held in New Delhi in September 2018, and to make continued progress on bilateral cooperation on cross-cutting defence and foreign policy issues of interest to both sides.

Both India and the US also exchanged views on regional developments as partners and stakeholders for a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and acting Defence Secretary of the United States Patrick M Shanahan has discussed bilateral ties between the two countries in a telephonic conversation, said Defence sources.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and acting Defence Secretary of the United States Patrick M Shanahan has discussed bilateral ties between the two countries in a telephonic conversation, said Defence sources. According to the Defence sources, the discussion between the two leaders took place a couple of days ago. Shanahan, who was earlier holding the office of the Deputy Secretary of Defence, took charge as Acting US Secretary of Defence from January 1. Recently in the second week of January, a 2+2 Inter-Sessional meeting was held between the US and India, focusing on the progress of defence and foreign policy issues between the two countries. The Indian delegation was led jointly by Joint Secretary (AMS) from the Ministry of External Affairs Gourangalal Das, and Joint Secretary (PIC) from the Ministry of Defence, Shambhu S Kumaran. The US delegation was led jointly by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Alice Wells and Assistant Secretary of Defence Randall Schriver. The Inter-Sessional meeting was set up to follow up on the decisions taken during the India-US Ministerial 2+2 Dialogue, the first round of which was held in New Delhi in September 2018, and to make continued progress on bilateral cooperation on cross-cutting defence and foreign policy issues of interest to both sides. Both India and the US also exchanged views on regional developments as partners and stakeholders for a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Sitharaman, US Acting Defence Minister discuss bilateral ties over phone: Report

The josh is still high in the country for Vicky Kaushal starrer 'Uri The Surgical Strike'. Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman watched the film at a theatre in Bengaluru on Sunday.

“What a power-packed movie @AdityaDharFilms and @RonnieScrewvala. Brilliant performances @yamigautam @vickykaushal09 @SirPareshRawal ji, @mohituraina. Recharged also by the energy in the cinema hall! #HighJosh,” Sitharaman tweeted after watching the film.

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What a power-packed movie <a href="https://twitter.com/AdityaDharFilms?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AdityaDharFilms</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/RonnieScrewvala?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RonnieScrewvala</a>. Brilliant performances <a href="https://twitter.com/yamigautam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@yamigautam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vickykaushal09?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vickykaushal09</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SirPareshRawal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SirPareshRawal</a> ji, <a href="https://twitter.com/mohituraina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mohituraina</a>. Recharged also by the energy in the cinema hall! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HighJosh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HighJosh</a> <a href="https://t.co/NPtfmRkD8i">pic.twitter.com/NPtfmRkD8i</a>
— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman/status/1089487024795590656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In a video shared by the Defence Minister, she can be seen encouraging the audience in the theatre while saying the popular catchphrase “How’s the josh” from the film.

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How’s the josh?! <a href="https://t.co/8hxuCxt0P5">pic.twitter.com/8hxuCxt0P5</a>
— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman/status/1089498614995521536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The film, which released on January 11, has impressed the audience and collected Rs 148.18 crore till Saturday.&nbsp;

The film is based on the 2016 Indian Army`s surgical strikes in Pakistan following the attacks in Jammu and Kashmir`s Uri town.

While the numbers speak for themselves, the success of the film is evident as the film`s catchphrase 'How`s the Josh' has managed to take the internet by storm.

The trend is being followed by everybody from children to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Sunday, during the inauguration of third bridge on the Mandovi river in Panaji, Goa, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar began his speech with the catchphrase.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar asks, "How's the Josh", at the inauguration function of the new Mandovi bridge "Atal Setu" in Panaji. <a href="https://t.co/53KL0qEcaI">pic.twitter.com/53KL0qEcaI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1089557989260972032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Parrikar was the defence minister at the time of the surgical strike conducted by the Army in September 2016.

The josh is still high in the country for Vicky Kaushal starrer 'Uri The Surgical Strike'. Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman watched the film at a theatre in Bengaluru on Sunday.

The josh is still high in the country for Vicky Kaushal starrer 'Uri The Surgical Strike'. Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman watched the film at a theatre in Bengaluru on Sunday. “What a power-packed movie @AdityaDharFilms and @RonnieScrewvala. Brilliant performances @yamigautam @vickykaushal09 @SirPareshRawal ji, @mohituraina. Recharged also by the energy in the cinema hall! #HighJosh,” Sitharaman tweeted after watching the film. What a power-packed movie @AdityaDharFilms and @RonnieScrewvala. Brilliant performances @yamigautam @vickykaushal09 @SirPareshRawal ji, @mohituraina. Recharged also by the energy in the cinema hall! #HighJosh pic.twitter.com/NPtfmRkD8i — Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) January 27, 2019 × In a video shared by the Defence Minister, she can be seen encouraging the audience in the theatre while saying the popular catchphrase “How’s the josh” from the film. How’s the josh?! pic.twitter.com/8hxuCxt0P5 — Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) January 27, 2019 × The film, which released on January 11, has impressed the audience and collected Rs 148.18 crore till Saturday. The film is based on the 2016 Indian Army`s surgical strikes in Pakistan following the attacks in Jammu and Kashmir`s Uri town. While the numbers speak for themselves, the success of the film is evident as the film`s catchphrase 'How`s the Josh' has managed to take the internet by storm. The trend is being followed by everybody from children to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Sunday, during the inauguration of third bridge on the Mandovi river in Panaji, Goa, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar began his speech with the catchphrase. #WATCH: Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar asks, "How's the Josh", at the inauguration function of the new Mandovi bridge "Atal Setu" in Panaji. pic.twitter.com/53KL0qEcaI — ANI (@ANI) January 27, 2019 × Parrikar was the defence minister at the time of the surgical strike conducted by the Army in September 2016.

‘How’s the josh?' asks Nirmala Sitharaman as she watches ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike'

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has termed it unfortunate that some states have chosen to opt out of the Centre's ambitious Ayushman Bharat scheme for "political expediency".

In a Facebook post dated January 23, Sitharaman said, "It (Ayushman Bharat) has already achieved a paradigm shift in healthcare within 3 months of its launch and has managed to provide succour to the poorest of the poor and the middle class...It is very unfortunate that some states have chosen to opt out of the scheme for reasons of political expediency."

She added that once fully implemented, Ayushman Bharat - which is also known as PM-JAY or Pradhanmantri Jan Aarogya Yojana - will become world's largest fully government-financed health protection scheme.

On January 10, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had announced that the state was pulling out of the scheme, accusing the Narendra Modi-led NDA government of "playing dirty politics" under the garb of the health coverage programme. 
 
"You(Narendra Modi) are sending letters with your photograph on them to every household in the state, making tall claims to take credit for the scheme. Then why should I bear 40 per cent? The NDA government should take the entire responsibility," she had said.&nbsp; 
 
The Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi has also given a cold shoulder to the scheme.

The scheme plans to cover over 10.74 crore poor and vulnerable families as per the socio-economic caste census (SECC). It provides a cover of up to Rs 5 lakhs per family per year which includes 1,400 pre-defined packages spread over 23 specialities.

The expenses incurred are shared between the Centre and the state in 60:40 ratio.

"More than 8 lakh beneficiaries have been admitted to empanelled hospitals and claims worth Rs 662 Cr have been settled. Within 100 days of its launch, it has been lauded by organisations like WHO and independent philanthropists like Bill Gates," Sitharaman wrote on Facebook.&nbsp;

Before the launch of Ayushman Bharat, around 62.58 per cent of our population had to pay for their own health and hospitalisation expenses and were not covered by any form of health protection, she said.&nbsp;

She pointed out that each year, 4.6 per cent of the population is pushed below the poverty line as people meet their healthcare needs spending large proportion of their income and savings, borrowing money or selling their assets.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has termed it unfortunate that some states have chosen to opt out of the Centre's ambitious Ayushman Bharat scheme for "political expediency".

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has termed it unfortunate that some states have chosen to opt out of the Centre's ambitious Ayushman Bharat scheme for "political expediency". In a Facebook post dated January 23, Sitharaman said, "It (Ayushman Bharat) has already achieved a paradigm shift in healthcare within 3 months of its launch and has managed to provide succour to the poorest of the poor and the middle class...It is very unfortunate that some states have chosen to opt out of the scheme for reasons of political expediency." She added that once fully implemented, Ayushman Bharat - which is also known as PM-JAY or Pradhanmantri Jan Aarogya Yojana - will become world's largest fully government-financed health protection scheme. On January 10, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had announced that the state was pulling out of the scheme, accusing the Narendra Modi-led NDA government of "playing dirty politics" under the garb of the health coverage programme. "You(Narendra Modi) are sending letters with your photograph on them to every household in the state, making tall claims to take credit for the scheme. Then why should I bear 40 per cent? The NDA government should take the entire responsibility," she had said. The Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in Delhi has also given a cold shoulder to the scheme. The scheme plans to cover over 10.74 crore poor and vulnerable families as per the socio-economic caste census (SECC). It provides a cover of up to Rs 5 lakhs per family per year which includes 1,400 pre-defined packages spread over 23 specialities. The expenses incurred are shared between the Centre and the state in 60:40 ratio. "More than 8 lakh beneficiaries have been admitted to empanelled hospitals and claims worth Rs 662 Cr have been settled. Within 100 days of its launch, it has been lauded by organisations like WHO and independent philanthropists like Bill Gates," Sitharaman wrote on Facebook. Before the launch of Ayushman Bharat, around 62.58 per cent of our population had to pay for their own health and hospitalisation expenses and were not covered by any form of health protection, she said. She pointed out that each year, 4.6 per cent of the population is pushed below the poverty line as people meet their healthcare needs spending large proportion of their income and savings, borrowing money or selling their assets.

Unfortunate that some states opted out of Ayushman Bharat for 'political expediency': Sitharaman

Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Wednesday termed the NDA government’s 2017 rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as the “biggest reform” taken as part of a “systemic reform” and pitched India as a bright spot for investors.

In her address at the Tamil Nadu government’s second Global Investors’ Meet (GIM), the Defence Minister said the government has ensured that systemic reforms were taken up with ‘courage.’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it a point that systemic reforms were done in such a way that India’s growth potential was realised fully, she said.

“We maintain the growth well above 6.5 (per cent), sometimes touching seven and IMF’s prediction is that we are likely to be over seven per cent in the coming years too.”

She said it was possible because the Modi government had made sure that that the systemic reforms were taken up “with courage,’ GST being the biggest of them.

“The biggest reform in the last 60 years was to make India as one market and that was achieved under Prime Minister Modi,” she said.

Together with many steps taken by the government, the country has now climbed the World Bank’s Ease of Doing business index also, she added.

“India is seen as the brightest spark..and the shining spot globally. Only two days ago, the IMF came up with the forecast that India’s growth will be the highest globally, being sustained for the last five years in that fashion.

This, along with fiscal prudence (and) the way in which the economy is being managed,” Sitharaman added.

Whether food inflation or the overall inflation, they have been kept well under control, she said.

“So, for somebody who wants to set up an industry, somebody who wants to do business, what more ideal situation can you have?” she asked.

Sitharaman also released the ‘Tamil Nadu Aerospace and Defence Industrial Policy 2019’ on the occasion.

Speaking at the summit, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami strongly pitched for his state as a favourable investment destination, among a group of investors and diplomatic officials, including Ambassadors and High Commissioners of various countries.

“With a population of 7.2 crores, of which 80 per cent is literate, and nearly 50 per cent urbanised, Tamil Nadu is an innovation-based economy, with a strong performance in manufacturing and services,” he said.

High quality skilled human resources, besides infrastructure, have made it a very attractive investment destination, he said, adding that the state attracts the third highest Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country.

Palaniswami said Tamil Nadu’s industrial base was diversified and it holds the leading position in textiles, leather, automobiles and auto components.

It also leads in heavy and Light engineering, an electronics manufacturer, Information Technology and Information Technology Enabled Services, and health care, he added.

The two-day GIM 2019 will see the participation of investors from a number of countries.

Palaniswami is scheduled to give an account of the MoUs signed during the event on its concluding day Thursday.

Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Wednesday termed the NDA government’s 2017 rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as the “biggest reform” taken as part of a “systemic reform” and pitched India as a bright spot for investors.

Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Wednesday termed the NDA government’s 2017 rollout of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as the “biggest reform” taken as part of a “systemic reform” and pitched India as a bright spot for investors. In her address at the Tamil Nadu government’s second Global Investors’ Meet (GIM), the Defence Minister said the government has ensured that systemic reforms were taken up with ‘courage.’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it a point that systemic reforms were done in such a way that India’s growth potential was realised fully, she said. “We maintain the growth well above 6.5 (per cent), sometimes touching seven and IMF’s prediction is that we are likely to be over seven per cent in the coming years too.” She said it was possible because the Modi government had made sure that that the systemic reforms were taken up “with courage,’ GST being the biggest of them. “The biggest reform in the last 60 years was to make India as one market and that was achieved under Prime Minister Modi,” she said. Together with many steps taken by the government, the country has now climbed the World Bank’s Ease of Doing business index also, she added. “India is seen as the brightest spark..and the shining spot globally. Only two days ago, the IMF came up with the forecast that India’s growth will be the highest globally, being sustained for the last five years in that fashion. This, along with fiscal prudence (and) the way in which the economy is being managed,” Sitharaman added. Whether food inflation or the overall inflation, they have been kept well under control, she said. “So, for somebody who wants to set up an industry, somebody who wants to do business, what more ideal situation can you have?” she asked. Sitharaman also released the ‘Tamil Nadu Aerospace and Defence Industrial Policy 2019’ on the occasion. Speaking at the summit, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami strongly pitched for his state as a favourable investment destination, among a group of investors and diplomatic officials, including Ambassadors and High Commissioners of various countries. “With a population of 7.2 crores, of which 80 per cent is literate, and nearly 50 per cent urbanised, Tamil Nadu is an innovation-based economy, with a strong performance in manufacturing and services,” he said. High quality skilled human resources, besides infrastructure, have made it a very attractive investment destination, he said, adding that the state attracts the third highest Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country. Palaniswami said Tamil Nadu’s industrial base was diversified and it holds the leading position in textiles, leather, automobiles and auto components. It also leads in heavy and Light engineering, an electronics manufacturer, Information Technology and Information Technology Enabled Services, and health care, he added. The two-day GIM 2019 will see the participation of investors from a number of countries. Palaniswami is scheduled to give an account of the MoUs signed during the event on its concluding day Thursday.

GST rollout biggest reform taken as part of systemic reform: Nirmala Sitharaman

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/women-to-be-recruited-in-military-police-nirmala-sitharaman-191296">Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman</a> Sunday said the ministry was willing to part with a portion of its land for the construction a Road Over Bridge at Mannarpuram here, provided the Tamil Nadu government "allotted a prime land of same value" at another other place in the state.

Addressing the "Tamil Nadu Defence Corridor-Launch of Projects" meeting here, she said, "If the Tamil Nadu government land of "equal value" within two days the army land will be handed to you."

"I will take efforts for the same... I assure you this," she said.

Sitharaman was responding to a representation made by AIADMK MP P Kumar.

To this, the MP intervened and said the state government had already allottedland in Kancheepuram district. However, the defence minister said it has not come to her knowledge.

Noting that defence lands were lying vacant because they were required for emergency purpose, she said, "It is not as if defence lands are lying waste without being used for any purpose. They are used in case of emergency and they will remain like that."

A portion of the ROB remained incomplete as the defence ministry's land was required for the completion here.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday said the ministry was willing to part with a portion of its land for the construction a Road Over Bridge at Mannarpuram here, provided the Tamil Nadu government "allotted a prime land of same value" at another other place in the state.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday said the ministry was willing to part with a portion of its land for the construction a Road Over Bridge at Mannarpuram here, provided the Tamil Nadu government "allotted a prime land of same value" at another other place in the state. Addressing the "Tamil Nadu Defence Corridor-Launch of Projects" meeting here, she said, "If the Tamil Nadu government land of "equal value" within two days the army land will be handed to you." "I will take efforts for the same... I assure you this," she said. Sitharaman was responding to a representation made by AIADMK MP P Kumar. To this, the MP intervened and said the state government had already allottedland in Kancheepuram district. However, the defence minister said it has not come to her knowledge. Noting that defence lands were lying vacant because they were required for emergency purpose, she said, "It is not as if defence lands are lying waste without being used for any purpose. They are used in case of emergency and they will remain like that." A portion of the ROB remained incomplete as the defence ministry's land was required for the completion here.

Defence Ministry willing to part with land for ROB in Tiruchirapalli: Nirmala Sitharaman

Accusing the opposition of spreading misinformation in the Rafale deal, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Saturday wondered whether they were becoming pawns in corporate rivalry and whether the procurement of 36 fighter jets was being "sabotaged."

During her address at an event here, Sitharaman said ever since the Modi government came to power, there was a conscious effort to keep middlemen at bay from the corridors of the Defence Ministry.

"I want every strand of this debate to be explained, as much as it can be, without any of us playing into the hands of international corporate warfare. None of us should play party to any corporate warfare.

"We cannot become pawns in the hands of the corporate giants to constantly bully the government, to constantly throw misinformation at the public, to misinform the public," she said.

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Nirmala Sitharaman: If their intention is to sabotage even this procurement (Rafale), to stop the purchase even now, that's the icing on the cake as regards disservice to the nation. Icing on the cake is a wrong expression but just the cruel last hit towards serving this nation. <a href="https://t.co/I9MCNptrrJ">pic.twitter.com/I9MCNptrrJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1086648776893386752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Her attack on the opposition parties comes a day after a newspaper report claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to buy 36 Rafale jets, instead of 126 as negotiated by the previous UPA government, was taken while bypassing mandated procedures, pushing the price of each aircraft by 41.42 per cent. The Congress has launched a fresh salvo at the government on the Rafale deal citing this report.

Sitharaman was addressing a seminar on 'India's Strategic Interest in Context of the Rafale Deal'. She accused the opposition of doing a "disservice" to the nation by misinforming the public on the fighter jet deal.

"You (opposition) are misinforming the public and doing disservice to the country if you are becoming pawns in corporate rivalry. Is India's interest at the top of your agenda or are you becoming a partner to some kind of corporate rivalry," she asked.

"Is your intention to sabotage this procurement? If the intention is to stop the purchase, (then) that's disservice to the nation," she said.

Accusing the opposition of spreading misinformation in the Rafale deal, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Saturday wondered whether they were becoming pawns in corporate rivalry and whether the procurement of 36 fighter jets was being "sabotaged.

Accusing the opposition of spreading misinformation in the Rafale deal, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Saturday wondered whether they were becoming pawns in corporate rivalry and whether the procurement of 36 fighter jets was being "sabotaged." During her address at an event here, Sitharaman said ever since the Modi government came to power, there was a conscious effort to keep middlemen at bay from the corridors of the Defence Ministry. "I want every strand of this debate to be explained, as much as it can be, without any of us playing into the hands of international corporate warfare. None of us should play party to any corporate warfare. "We cannot become pawns in the hands of the corporate giants to constantly bully the government, to constantly throw misinformation at the public, to misinform the public," she said. Nirmala Sitharaman: If their intention is to sabotage even this procurement (Rafale), to stop the purchase even now, that's the icing on the cake as regards disservice to the nation. Icing on the cake is a wrong expression but just the cruel last hit towards serving this nation. pic.twitter.com/I9MCNptrrJ — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × Her attack on the opposition parties comes a day after a newspaper report claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to buy 36 Rafale jets, instead of 126 as negotiated by the previous UPA government, was taken while bypassing mandated procedures, pushing the price of each aircraft by 41.42 per cent. The Congress has launched a fresh salvo at the government on the Rafale deal citing this report. Sitharaman was addressing a seminar on 'India's Strategic Interest in Context of the Rafale Deal'. She accused the opposition of doing a "disservice" to the nation by misinforming the public on the fighter jet deal. "You (opposition) are misinforming the public and doing disservice to the country if you are becoming pawns in corporate rivalry. Is India's interest at the top of your agenda or are you becoming a partner to some kind of corporate rivalry," she asked. "Is your intention to sabotage this procurement? If the intention is to stop the purchase, (then) that's disservice to the nation," she said.

Rafale deal: Sitharaman asks whether opposition being used in game of corporate rivalry

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said the government has taken a "historic" decision to induct women in the military police with an aim to enhance their representation in the armed forces.&nbsp;

Women will be inducted in a graded manner to eventually comprise 20 per cent of total Corps of Military Police, the official handle of the defence minister tweeted.

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The women will be inducted in graded manner to eventually comprise 20% of total Corps of Military Police 2/2
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Their role would range from probing rape and molestation cases to assisting the Army wherever required.

"To improve representation of women in our armed forces Smt @nsitharaman takes a historic decision to induct women for the first time in PBOR (Personnel Below Officer Rank) role in Corps of Military Police. The women will be inducted in graded manner to eventually comprise 20% of total Corps of Military Police," the handle tweeted.

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To improve representation of women in our armed forces Smt <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> takes a historic decision to induct women for the first time in PBOR role in Corps of Military Police 1/2 <a href="https://t.co/PmEVEZ9h03">pic.twitter.com/PmEVEZ9h03</a>
— Raksha Mantri (@DefenceMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia/status/1086173505589108738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Last year, Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat said the process to allow women in combat role, currently, an exclusive domain of men, was moving fast and initially women will be recruited for positions in military police.

Accordingly, the Army chalked out induction of approximately 800 women in military police with a yearly intake of 52 personnel per year.

Currently, women are allowed in select areas such as medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings of the Army.&nbsp;

The role of the military police includes policing cantonments and Army establishments, preventing breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to civil police whenever required.

Earlier this month, in a written response to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State in the Defence Ministry Subhash Bhamre the Army has 3.80 per cent of its workforce as women, the Air Force has 13.09 per cent and the Navy six per cent.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said the government has taken a "historic" decision to induct women in the military police with an aim to enhance their representation in the armed forces.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said the government has taken a "historic" decision to induct women in the military police with an aim to enhance their representation in the armed forces. Women will be inducted in a graded manner to eventually comprise 20 per cent of total Corps of Military Police, the official handle of the defence minister tweeted. The women will be inducted in graded manner to eventually comprise 20% of total Corps of Military Police 2/2 — Raksha Mantri (@DefenceMinIndia) January 18, 2019 × Their role would range from probing rape and molestation cases to assisting the Army wherever required. "To improve representation of women in our armed forces Smt @nsitharaman takes a historic decision to induct women for the first time in PBOR (Personnel Below Officer Rank) role in Corps of Military Police. The women will be inducted in graded manner to eventually comprise 20% of total Corps of Military Police," the handle tweeted. To improve representation of women in our armed forces Smt @nsitharaman takes a historic decision to induct women for the first time in PBOR role in Corps of Military Police 1/2 pic.twitter.com/PmEVEZ9h03 — Raksha Mantri (@DefenceMinIndia) January 18, 2019 × Last year, Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat said the process to allow women in combat role, currently, an exclusive domain of men, was moving fast and initially women will be recruited for positions in military police. Accordingly, the Army chalked out induction of approximately 800 women in military police with a yearly intake of 52 personnel per year. Currently, women are allowed in select areas such as medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings of the Army. The role of the military police includes policing cantonments and Army establishments, preventing breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to civil police whenever required. Earlier this month, in a written response to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State in the Defence Ministry Subhash Bhamre the Army has 3.80 per cent of its workforce as women, the Air Force has 13.09 per cent and the Navy six per cent.

Women to be recruited in military police: Nirmala Sitharaman

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under&nbsp;Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018.

Speaking exclusively to WION from Male she said, "It is my first trip to India as the Maldivian Minister for Defence and I look forward to fruitful discussions with my Indian counterpart Hon Nirmala Sitharaman. As someone who believes in gender equality, I am excited. I understand this is the first time in the history of the region that there is going to be a meeting between two female defence ministers.”

On security cooperation, she said, “From time immemorial we have traditionally enjoyed close ties with India. I believe it is in our respective self-interest to continue to do so. Our security co-operation helps to keep us safe and combats a variety of problems from fish poaching to piracy and smuggling."

Her visit comes a month after Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih visited India, making her trip the third&nbsp;high-level visit from the new Maldivian government.

During President Solih's India visit in December, India had announced financial assistance up to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-president-solihs-visit-maldives-resets-india-first-policy-india-reciprocates-with-14-bn-aid-package-184877">$1.4 billion to the island nation</a>.

Relations under former president Abdulla Yameen's administration and New Delhi had suffered, especially since Yameen junked 'Ïndia First'&nbsp;policy for a pro-Beijing policy. Yameen even wanted New Delhi to take back 2 helicopters it had gifted. Speaking to WION, immediately after taking charge, Mariya had said the helicopters will not be given back and "It’s not in our culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give."

PM Modi had visited the&nbsp;Maldives in November 2018 to take part in the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih. During the bilateral meeting, both the leaders agreed on the "importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean" and "being mindful of each other’s concerns and aspirations for the stability of the region."

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018.

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018. Speaking exclusively to WION from Male she said, "It is my first trip to India as the Maldivian Minister for Defence and I look forward to fruitful discussions with my Indian counterpart Hon Nirmala Sitharaman. As someone who believes in gender equality, I am excited. I understand this is the first time in the history of the region that there is going to be a meeting between two female defence ministers.” On security cooperation, she said, “From time immemorial we have traditionally enjoyed close ties with India. I believe it is in our respective self-interest to continue to do so. Our security co-operation helps to keep us safe and combats a variety of problems from fish poaching to piracy and smuggling." Her visit comes a month after Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih visited India, making her trip the third high-level visit from the new Maldivian government. During President Solih's India visit in December, India had announced financial assistance up to $1.4 billion to the island nation. Relations under former president Abdulla Yameen's administration and New Delhi had suffered, especially since Yameen junked 'Ïndia First' policy for a pro-Beijing policy. Yameen even wanted New Delhi to take back 2 helicopters it had gifted. Speaking to WION, immediately after taking charge, Mariya had said the helicopters will not be given back and "It’s not in our culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give." PM Modi had visited the Maldives in November 2018 to take part in the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih. During the bilateral meeting, both the leaders agreed on the "importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean" and "being mindful of each other’s concerns and aspirations for the stability of the region."

India-Maldives security cooperation keeps us safe: Maldivian defence minister to WION

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday reached Portblair on a two-day visit to Andaman and Nicobar Islands where she will witness a joint military drill involving the Army, the Air Force, the Navy and the Coast Guard, officials said.

Sitharaman will witness three exercises -- general survival exercise, amphibious drill and a joint drill, an official said.

Andaman and Nicobar is also the armed forces' tri-service command.

At least two drills will see the participation of the three armed forces, the official added.

"Smt @nsitharaman arrives in Port Blair to oversee a major joint exercise involving the @adgpi , @indiannavy , @IAF_MCC and @IndiaCoastGuard during her 2-day visit," the defence minister's official handle tweeted.

Andaman and Nicobar archipelago is straddled strategically near the mouth of the Malacca Straits.

The Malacca Straits is also an important Sea Lane of Communication and used by the navies of several countries, including China which has been stepping up its military infrastructure in the Indian Ocean Region.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday reached Portblair on a two-day visit to Andaman and Nicobar Islands where she will witness a joint military drill involving the Army, the Air Force, the Navy and the Coast Guard, officials said.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday reached Portblair on a two-day visit to Andaman and Nicobar Islands where she will witness a joint military drill involving the Army, the Air Force, the Navy and the Coast Guard, officials said. Sitharaman will witness three exercises -- general survival exercise, amphibious drill and a joint drill, an official said. Andaman and Nicobar is also the armed forces' tri-service command. At least two drills will see the participation of the three armed forces, the official added. "Smt @nsitharaman arrives in Port Blair to oversee a major joint exercise involving the @adgpi , @indiannavy , @IAF_MCC and @IndiaCoastGuard during her 2-day visit," the defence minister's official handle tweeted. Andaman and Nicobar archipelago is straddled strategically near the mouth of the Malacca Straits. The Malacca Straits is also an important Sea Lane of Communication and used by the navies of several countries, including China which has been stepping up its military infrastructure in the Indian Ocean Region.

Nirmala Sitharaman on two-day visit to Andaman and Nicobar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/assembly-election-results-2018-pm-narendra-modi-lost-but-rahul-gandhi-did-not-win-183412">tore into Congress president Rahul Gandhi</a> for saying he made "a woman"&nbsp;defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, a reference to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, terming the remark as an insult to all women in the country.

Mounting a fresh offensive against the Congress as well as the SP and the BSP at rallies in Solapur in Maharashtra and Agra in Uttar Pradesh, Modi also called himself a chowkidar (watchman) who can pick out a wrongdoer even in darkness in his fight against corruption.

Modi said his "safai" (clean-up) mission to uproot corruption has made the opposition parties scared of the chowkidar that even arch-rivals SP and the BSP are coming together to throw him out of power. Modi referred to himself by the term 'chowkidar' Rahul Gandhi often uses while targeting the prime minister.

Calling Modi a prime minister who claimed to have a broad chest, Gandhi said he had "run away" from the debate in Parliament on the Rafale deal last week.

The watchman with a 56-inch chest ran away and told a woman, Sitharaman Ji, defend me. I won't be able to defend myself, defend me, Gandhi said at a farmers' rally in Jaipur.

In his public meeting a few hours later in Agra, Modi accused Congress leaders of insulting all women in the country.

Modi said Sitharaman had floored the Opposition in the Lok Sabha by coming up with "fact after fact" on the Rafale deal.

"They are bent upon insulting a woman defence minister," he said, without naming Gandhi.

"This is not an insult to a woman, but an insult to entire India's women power, for which these irresponsible leaders will have to pay the price."

The prime minister said it was a matter of pride that a woman had become defence minister for the first time in the country.

Targeting the Congress, Modi asked it to clarify what was driving its relentless allegations on the Rafale fighter jet procurement issue.

Modi also latched on to media reports that claimed that alleged middleman Christian Michel, arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case, was lobbying for French manufacturer Rafale's rivals in the multi-role aircraft deal.

"During the earlier (UPA) regime, the middlemen culture had become a part of the system. They had snatched the rights of the poor and also played with the security of the nation," Modi said, adding Michel was lobbying for "some other contender" as well.

"He (Michel) has made a shocking revelation. As per media reports, he was not just involved in the (AgustaWestland) chopper deal but also involved in the deal relating to the fighter planes (Rafale), when the earlier government was in power," Modi said.

"Media says that Michel was also lobbying for some other company. Congress should answer which leader of their party, now shouting about this (Rafale deal), has a connection with Michel. They should give an account of each and every penny spent," he said. Congress did not immediately react to Modi's remark.

He also said that 'Michel mama' the 'confidence' is in the custody of country and that the Congress is worried that he might reveal secrets.

"Do you support the chowkidar," Modi asked the crowd at the Solapur rally.&nbsp;

"Was the deal stopped then because of Michel mama's 'saudebaazi' (deals)," he said, apparently referring to the 126 jet plan that didn't materialise.

Calling himself a chowkidar, Modi said he has undertaken a "safai" (clean-up) mission to uproot corruption and that he cannot be bought or scared and will continue with his work relentlessly.

"Modi is made up of different mettle. He cannot be bought nor can anyone scare him. I will take an account of every single penny. This chowkidar doesn't sleep and can pick a wrongdoer even in darkness. They may continue abusing me but I will not stop my mission to uproot corruption," the prime minister said.

In Agra, Modi hit out at the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party(SP) and the Mayawati-headed Bahujan Samaj Party(BSP), which are in the process of tying up an alliance ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, saying political rivals, who did not even like to look at each other, were now coming together just to oppose the BJP.

"Rivals are coming together just to oppose us. Political rivals, who didn't even like to look at each other, are now coming together just to oppose us," he told a public meeting after launching various projects worth Rs 3,907 crore.

"They fear the chowkidar, which is why they want to throw me out of power," Modi said, citing alleged scams in sand and gravel mining in Uttar Pradesh during the separate regimes of these two parties in the state earlier.

"The investigating agencies are seeking an answer from them of their misdeeds and so they are conspiring against the chowkidar...," Modi said, alleging they have now started a cooperation campaign in corruption,"...To hide their scams and corruption (they) are shaking hands...Those who were not ready to see eye to eye are shaking hands for petty political gains and are (also) ready to forget the shameful guest house case and other incidents," Modi said referring to the infamous state guest house incident in 1995. SP workers manhandled Mayawati in the state guest house in Lucknow on June 2, 1995, in a bid to obtain BSP's support for the party's coalition government.

"This is happening only because the chowkidar is awake and is standing in front of them with full honesty...To remove the chowkidar they are collecting all the 'tinkas' and 'tukdas'(straw and broken pieces)," he said.

Modi defended the introduction of the 10 per cent quota for the general category poor in jobs and education, adding the bill's passage in the Lok Sabha is a strong answer to those "spreading lies".

On the Lok Sabha's approval of the Citizenship(Amendment) Bill, seeking to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Modi assured people of Assam and the North-East their rights will not be curtailed in any way.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday tore into Congress president Rahul Gandhi for saying he made "a woman" defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, a reference to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, terming the remark as an insult to all women in the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday tore into Congress president Rahul Gandhi for saying he made "a woman" defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, a reference to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, terming the remark as an insult to all women in the country. Mounting a fresh offensive against the Congress as well as the SP and the BSP at rallies in Solapur in Maharashtra and Agra in Uttar Pradesh, Modi also called himself a chowkidar (watchman) who can pick out a wrongdoer even in darkness in his fight against corruption. Modi said his "safai" (clean-up) mission to uproot corruption has made the opposition parties scared of the chowkidar that even arch-rivals SP and the BSP are coming together to throw him out of power. Modi referred to himself by the term 'chowkidar' Rahul Gandhi often uses while targeting the prime minister. Calling Modi a prime minister who claimed to have a broad chest, Gandhi said he had "run away" from the debate in Parliament on the Rafale deal last week. The watchman with a 56-inch chest ran away and told a woman, Sitharaman Ji, defend me. I won't be able to defend myself, defend me, Gandhi said at a farmers' rally in Jaipur. In his public meeting a few hours later in Agra, Modi accused Congress leaders of insulting all women in the country. Modi said Sitharaman had floored the Opposition in the Lok Sabha by coming up with "fact after fact" on the Rafale deal. "They are bent upon insulting a woman defence minister," he said, without naming Gandhi. "This is not an insult to a woman, but an insult to entire India's women power, for which these irresponsible leaders will have to pay the price." The prime minister said it was a matter of pride that a woman had become defence minister for the first time in the country. Targeting the Congress, Modi asked it to clarify what was driving its relentless allegations on the Rafale fighter jet procurement issue. Modi also latched on to media reports that claimed that alleged middleman Christian Michel, arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case, was lobbying for French manufacturer Rafale's rivals in the multi-role aircraft deal. "During the earlier (UPA) regime, the middlemen culture had become a part of the system. They had snatched the rights of the poor and also played with the security of the nation," Modi said, adding Michel was lobbying for "some other contender" as well. "He (Michel) has made a shocking revelation. As per media reports, he was not just involved in the (AgustaWestland) chopper deal but also involved in the deal relating to the fighter planes (Rafale), when the earlier government was in power," Modi said. "Media says that Michel was also lobbying for some other company. Congress should answer which leader of their party, now shouting about this (Rafale deal), has a connection with Michel. They should give an account of each and every penny spent," he said. Congress did not immediately react to Modi's remark. He also said that 'Michel mama' the 'confidence' is in the custody of country and that the Congress is worried that he might reveal secrets. "Do you support the chowkidar," Modi asked the crowd at the Solapur rally. "Was the deal stopped then because of Michel mama's 'saudebaazi' (deals)," he said, apparently referring to the 126 jet plan that didn't materialise. Calling himself a chowkidar, Modi said he has undertaken a "safai" (clean-up) mission to uproot corruption and that he cannot be bought or scared and will continue with his work relentlessly. "Modi is made up of different mettle. He cannot be bought nor can anyone scare him. I will take an account of every single penny. This chowkidar doesn't sleep and can pick a wrongdoer even in darkness. They may continue abusing me but I will not stop my mission to uproot corruption," the prime minister said. In Agra, Modi hit out at the Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party(SP) and the Mayawati-headed Bahujan Samaj Party(BSP), which are in the process of tying up an alliance ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, saying political rivals, who did not even like to look at each other, were now coming together just to oppose the BJP. "Rivals are coming together just to oppose us. Political rivals, who didn't even like to look at each other, are now coming together just to oppose us," he told a public meeting after launching various projects worth Rs 3,907 crore. "They fear the chowkidar, which is why they want to throw me out of power," Modi said, citing alleged scams in sand and gravel mining in Uttar Pradesh during the separate regimes of these two parties in the state earlier. "The investigating agencies are seeking an answer from them of their misdeeds and so they are conspiring against the chowkidar...," Modi said, alleging they have now started a cooperation campaign in corruption,"...To hide their scams and corruption (they) are shaking hands...Those who were not ready to see eye to eye are shaking hands for petty political gains and are (also) ready to forget the shameful guest house case and other incidents," Modi said referring to the infamous state guest house incident in 1995. SP workers manhandled Mayawati in the state guest house in Lucknow on June 2, 1995, in a bid to obtain BSP's support for the party's coalition government. "This is happening only because the chowkidar is awake and is standing in front of them with full honesty...To remove the chowkidar they are collecting all the 'tinkas' and 'tukdas'(straw and broken pieces)," he said. Modi defended the introduction of the 10 per cent quota for the general category poor in jobs and education, adding the bill's passage in the Lok Sabha is a strong answer to those "spreading lies". On the Lok Sabha's approval of the Citizenship(Amendment) Bill, seeking to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Modi assured people of Assam and the North-East their rights will not be curtailed in any way.

Modi slams Rahul for saying he made 'a woman' defend him in Parliament

National Commission for Women(NCW) <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafael-deal-was-done-with-national-security-as-a-priority-nirmala-sitharaman-188252">today sent&nbsp;a notice</a> to Congress president Rahul Gandhi after he said&nbsp;at a rally in Jaipur that PM Modi had made a woman defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, referring to defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

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National Commission for Women (NCW) issues notice to Congress President Rahul Gandhi over his statement "PM ran away &amp; asked a 'mahila' (Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman) to defend him" <a href="https://t.co/xTAyqNeXg1">pic.twitter.com/xTAyqNeXg1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1083239622916886529?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi hit back at a rally in Agra over&nbsp;Congress president's statement asserting that it was an "insult to all women in the country."

"They are bent upon insulting a woman defence minister," he said, without naming Rahul Gandhi.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/NCWIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCWIndia</a> will be sending a notice to <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> regarding the statement in question. <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> <a href="https://t.co/tJc6hzsdpF">https://t.co/tJc6hzsdpF</a>
— NCW (@NCWIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/NCWIndia/status/1082982924851527680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This is not an insult to a woman, but an insult to entire India's women power, for which these irresponsible leaders will have to pay the price," the prime minister had said.

Rekha Sharma, chairperson NCW said: What is Rahul Gandhi trying to imply with his misogynistic statement? Does he think women are weak? The irony - calling an accomplished defence minister of the largest democracy a weak person."

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What is <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rahulgandhi</a> trying to imply with his misogynistic statement- “... ek mahila say kaha meri raksha kiijiye."? Does he think women are weak? The irony- calling an accomplished defence minister of the largest democracy a weak person. <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NCWIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ncwindia</a>
— rekha sharma (@sharmarekha) <a href="https://twitter.com/sharmarekha/status/1082981959381471234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had attacked Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha during the Rafael deal declaring that he had lied about meeting French president Macron about the deal.

"We've asked explanation from Rahul Gandhi why he said what he said yesterday in his tweets. The statement was pathetic, sexist and misogynistic. That's why we've sent him a notice. He has to explain what does he mean when he is trying to talk low of women," Rekha Sharma said.

During the debate in Parliament, Sitharaman had said&nbsp;that it was a matter of “shame” that the Congress president was misleading the country on the Rafael issue. Sitharaman asked Rahul to apologise to the country from the floor of the House.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had alleged that the defence minister had “lied” in Parliament that government orders worth Rs one lakh crore were provided to HAL while demanding that she should either place the documents in support of her statement in the House or resign.

Sitharaman told the Lok Sabha in a heated reply that "doubts raised" over her statement on HAL contracts were "incorrect and misleading."

National Commission for Women(NCW) today sent a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi after he said at a rally in Jaipur that PM Modi had made a woman defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, referring to defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

National Commission for Women(NCW) today sent a notice to Congress president Rahul Gandhi after he said at a rally in Jaipur that PM Modi had made a woman defend him in Parliament over the Rafale deal, referring to defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. National Commission for Women (NCW) issues notice to Congress President Rahul Gandhi over his statement "PM ran away & asked a 'mahila' (Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman) to defend him" pic.twitter.com/xTAyqNeXg1 — ANI (@ANI) January 10, 2019 × PM Modi hit back at a rally in Agra over Congress president's statement asserting that it was an "insult to all women in the country." "They are bent upon insulting a woman defence minister," he said, without naming Rahul Gandhi. .@NCWIndia will be sending a notice to @RahulGandhi regarding the statement in question. @nsitharaman https://t.co/tJc6hzsdpF — NCW (@NCWIndia) January 9, 2019 × "This is not an insult to a woman, but an insult to entire India's women power, for which these irresponsible leaders will have to pay the price," the prime minister had said. Rekha Sharma, chairperson NCW said: What is Rahul Gandhi trying to imply with his misogynistic statement? Does he think women are weak? The irony - calling an accomplished defence minister of the largest democracy a weak person." What is @rahulgandhi trying to imply with his misogynistic statement- “... ek mahila say kaha meri raksha kiijiye."? Does he think women are weak? The irony- calling an accomplished defence minister of the largest democracy a weak person. @nsitharaman @narendramodi @ncwindia — rekha sharma (@sharmarekha) January 9, 2019 × Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman had attacked Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha during the Rafael deal declaring that he had lied about meeting French president Macron about the deal. "We've asked explanation from Rahul Gandhi why he said what he said yesterday in his tweets. The statement was pathetic, sexist and misogynistic. That's why we've sent him a notice. He has to explain what does he mean when he is trying to talk low of women," Rekha Sharma said. During the debate in Parliament, Sitharaman had said that it was a matter of “shame” that the Congress president was misleading the country on the Rafael issue. Sitharaman asked Rahul to apologise to the country from the floor of the House. Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had alleged that the defence minister had “lied” in Parliament that government orders worth Rs one lakh crore were provided to HAL while demanding that she should either place the documents in support of her statement in the House or resign. Sitharaman told the Lok Sabha in a heated reply that "doubts raised" over her statement on HAL contracts were "incorrect and misleading."

NCW sends notice to Rahul Gandhi over Nirmala Sitharaman remark

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Sunday expressed optimism that the public sector entity's financial condition would improve by the end of the current fiscal.

The state-owned aerospace firm has said to have "taken an overdraft of Rs 962 crore but the situation is expected to improve by end of the financial year" thanks to "anticipated collections."

"In view of the various media along with reports on HAL, following is clarified, HAL has taken overdraft of Rs 962 crore. With anticipated collection up to March, the cash position is expected to improve. Orders for LCA Mk1 A (83) &amp; LCH (15) are in advanced stages," Bangalore-based HAL tweeted.

A political controversy erupted after a media report quoted HAL CMD R Madhavan, saying that after many years, the aerospace company had to borrow close to Rs 1,000 crore as an overdraft.

There were other reports as well, suggesting the HAL was yet to get orders from the Central government.

Earlier on Sunday, the war of words erupted between Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, where he accused the Defence Minister of lying in the Parliament about giving orders to HAL and asked her to prove it or resign.

Defence Minister Sitharaman retaliated by showing the documents, which suggested that HAL signed contracts worth Rs 26,570 crore and Rs 73,000 crore worth contracts were in the pipeline for the aerospace firm.&nbsp;

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Sunday expressed optimism that the public sector entity's financial condition would improve by the end of the current fiscal.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on Sunday expressed optimism that the public sector entity's financial condition would improve by the end of the current fiscal. The state-owned aerospace firm has said to have "taken an overdraft of Rs 962 crore but the situation is expected to improve by end of the financial year" thanks to "anticipated collections." "In view of the various media along with reports on HAL, following is clarified, HAL has taken overdraft of Rs 962 crore. With anticipated collection up to March, the cash position is expected to improve. Orders for LCA Mk1 A (83) & LCH (15) are in advanced stages," Bangalore-based HAL tweeted. A political controversy erupted after a media report quoted HAL CMD R Madhavan, saying that after many years, the aerospace company had to borrow close to Rs 1,000 crore as an overdraft. There were other reports as well, suggesting the HAL was yet to get orders from the Central government. Earlier on Sunday, the war of words erupted between Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, where he accused the Defence Minister of lying in the Parliament about giving orders to HAL and asked her to prove it or resign. Defence Minister Sitharaman retaliated by showing the documents, which suggested that HAL signed contracts worth Rs 26,570 crore and Rs 73,000 crore worth contracts were in the pipeline for the aerospace firm.

HAL expects 'cash position' to improve by end of current fiscal

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday told Lok Sabha that "doubts raised" over her statement on HAL contracts are "incorrect and misleading."

The Union Minister added that she had received a&nbsp;confirmation from HAL on contracts signed worth Rs 26,570.80 crore during 2014-18 and other orders in the pipeline worth Rs 73,000 crore.

"I have received confirmation from HAL that contracts during 2014-18 worth Rs 26,570.80 crore have already been signed with HAL. Orders worth Rs 73,000 crore approx are in the pipeline," she noted.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Congress chief took to Twitter on Monday stating that it isn't surprising that HAL doesn't have enough money to pay its own employees.

<img alt="rahul gandhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="013a7172-1a7a-414f-ab93-9ce5a1fa3e78" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/rahul%20gandhi%20tweet.JPG" />

Sitharaman's comments came a day after Congress president <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-nirmala-sitharaman-hits-back-at-congress-president-says-rahul-gandhi-misleading-nation-188560">Rahul Gandhi on Sunday accused her</a> of lying in Parliament about procurement orders worth Rs 1 lakh crore for state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).&nbsp;

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Defence Minister in Lok Sabha: I have received confirmation from HAL that contracts during 2014-18 worth Rs 26,570.80 crore have already been signed with HAL. Orders worth Rs 73,000 Cr approx are in the pipeline <a href="https://t.co/UeWFQ2Gc37">pic.twitter.com/UeWFQ2Gc37</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1082166483139076096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In her counteroffensive, Sitharaman said it was a matter of “shame” that the Congress president was misleading the country on the issue. She also tweeted details of the contract awarded to HAL since 2014 when the BJP came to power.

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Rahul Gandhi: Today Nirmala Sitharaman lied in parliament.I'm again requesting the Defence minister and PM Modi to answer "did Air Force and Defence ministry senior officers object to your interference in Rafale deal?" Please answer in a "Yes or No." <a href="https://t.co/BcbPCucPeS">pic.twitter.com/BcbPCucPeS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1082189673445748736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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“It’s a shame that the president of @INCIndia is misleading the nation. HAL has signed contracts worth Rs 26570.8 Cr (Between 2014 and 2018) and contracts worth Rs 73000 Cr are in the pipeline. Will @RahulGandhi apologise to the country from the floor of the house?” the defence minister tweeted out.

Earlier, Gandhi alleged that she “lied” in Parliament that government orders worth Rs one lakh crore were provided to HAL while demanding that she should either place the documents in support of her statement in the House or resign, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Gandhi’s attack came after a media report claimed that “not a single rupee of the said Rs 1 lakh crore has come to HAL, since not a single order, as claimed, has been signed till now”.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday told Lok Sabha that "doubts raised" over her statement on HAL contracts are "incorrect and misleading." The Union Minister added that she had received a confirmation from HAL on contracts signed worth Rs 26,570.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday told Lok Sabha that "doubts raised" over her statement on HAL contracts are "incorrect and misleading." The Union Minister added that she had received a confirmation from HAL on contracts signed worth Rs 26,570.80 crore during 2014-18 and other orders in the pipeline worth Rs 73,000 crore. "I have received confirmation from HAL that contracts during 2014-18 worth Rs 26,570.80 crore have already been signed with HAL. Orders worth Rs 73,000 crore approx are in the pipeline," she noted. Meanwhile, the Congress chief took to Twitter on Monday stating that it isn't surprising that HAL doesn't have enough money to pay its own employees. Sitharaman's comments came a day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Sunday accused her of lying in Parliament about procurement orders worth Rs 1 lakh crore for state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Defence Minister in Lok Sabha: I have received confirmation from HAL that contracts during 2014-18 worth Rs 26,570.80 crore have already been signed with HAL. Orders worth Rs 73,000 Cr approx are in the pipeline pic.twitter.com/UeWFQ2Gc37 — ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2019 × In her counteroffensive, Sitharaman said it was a matter of “shame” that the Congress president was misleading the country on the issue. She also tweeted details of the contract awarded to HAL since 2014 when the BJP came to power. Rahul Gandhi: Today Nirmala Sitharaman lied in parliament.I'm again requesting the Defence minister and PM Modi to answer "did Air Force and Defence ministry senior officers object to your interference in Rafale deal?" Please answer in a "Yes or No." pic.twitter.com/BcbPCucPeS — ANI (@ANI) January 7, 2019 × “It’s a shame that the president of @INCIndia is misleading the nation. HAL has signed contracts worth Rs 26570.8 Cr (Between 2014 and 2018) and contracts worth Rs 73000 Cr are in the pipeline. Will @RahulGandhi apologise to the country from the floor of the house?” the defence minister tweeted out. Earlier, Gandhi alleged that she “lied” in Parliament that government orders worth Rs one lakh crore were provided to HAL while demanding that she should either place the documents in support of her statement in the House or resign, news agency PTI reported. Gandhi’s attack came after a media report claimed that “not a single rupee of the said Rs 1 lakh crore has come to HAL, since not a single order, as claimed, has been signed till now”. (With inputs from PTI)

Doubts raised incorrect and misleading: Sitharaman over HAL statement in Parliament 

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday hit back at Congress President Rahul Gandhi after he accused her of lying in Parliament about procurement orders worth Rs 1 lakh crore for state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).&nbsp;

In her counteroffensive, Sitharaman said it was a matter of “shame” that the Congress president was misleading the country on the issue. She also tweeted details of the contract awarded to HAL since 2014 when the BJP came to power.

“It’s a shame that the president of @INCIndia is misleading the nation. HAL has signed contracts worth Rs 26570.8 Cr (Between 2014 and 2018) and contracts worth Rs 73000 Cr are in the pipeline. Will @RahulGandhi apologise to the country from the floor of the house?” the defence minister tweeted.

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It's a shame that the president of <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCIndia</a> is misleading the nation. 
 
HAL has signed contracts worth Rs 26570.8 Cr (Between 2014 and 2018) and contracts worth Rs 73000 Cr are in the pipeline. 
 
Will <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> apologise to the country from the floor of the house? <a href="https://t.co/KIQsWikByG">pic.twitter.com/KIQsWikByG</a>
— Raksha Mantri (@DefenceMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia/status/1081866784289026048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, Gandhi alleged that she “lied” in Parliament that government orders worth Rs one lakh crore were provided to HAL while demanding that she should either place the documents in support of her statement in the House or resign.

Gandhi’s attack came after a media report claimed that “not a single rupee of the said Rs 1 lakh crore has come to HAL, since not a single order, as claimed, has been signed till now”.

The media report cited senior HAL management officials in order to back its claim. The Congress has been targeting the government, alleging that it denied the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) an offset contract under the Rafale fighter jets deal with France, a charge the government has denied.

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When you tell one lie, you need to keep spinning out more lies, to cover up the first one. 
 
In her eagerness to defend the PM's Rafale lie, the RM lied to Parliament. 
 
Tomorrow, RM must place before Parliament documents showing 1 Lakh crore of Govt orders to HAL. 
 
Or resign. <a href="https://t.co/dYafyklH9o">pic.twitter.com/dYafyklH9o</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1081828418805813248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has accused the Congress of not supporting HAL during its rule and asserted that the government is now strengthening the defence public sector undertaking.

“When you tell one lie, you need to keep spinning out more lies, to cover up the first one. In her eagerness to defend the PM’s Rafale lie, the RM lied to Parliament,” Gandhi tweeted.

“Tomorrow, RM must place before Parliament documents showing 1 Lakh crore of Govt orders to HAL. Or resign,” he said.

Gandhi had on Saturday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of “weakening” HAL to help his “suit-boot” friend.

His criticism followed a media report which claimed that HAL, grappling with low finances, was forced to borrow Rs 1,000 crore to pay salaries to its employees for the first time in years.

Congress’s chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala tweeted on Sunday: “The Lying Defence Minister’s Lies Get Exposed! Defence Minister claimed that procurement orders worth Rs 1 Lakh Crore provided to HAL! HAL says Not a SINGLE PAISA has come, as Not a SINGLE ORDER has been signed!”

“For the first time, HAL forced to take a loan of Rs1000 Cr to pay salaries!,” he added.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday hit back at Congress President Rahul Gandhi after he accused her of lying in Parliament about procurement orders worth Rs 1 lakh crore for state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Sunday hit back at Congress President Rahul Gandhi after he accused her of lying in Parliament about procurement orders worth Rs 1 lakh crore for state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). In her counteroffensive, Sitharaman said it was a matter of “shame” that the Congress president was misleading the country on the issue. She also tweeted details of the contract awarded to HAL since 2014 when the BJP came to power. “It’s a shame that the president of @INCIndia is misleading the nation. HAL has signed contracts worth Rs 26570.8 Cr (Between 2014 and 2018) and contracts worth Rs 73000 Cr are in the pipeline. Will @RahulGandhi apologise to the country from the floor of the house?” the defence minister tweeted. It's a shame that the president of @INCIndia is misleading the nation. HAL has signed contracts worth Rs 26570.8 Cr (Between 2014 and 2018) and contracts worth Rs 73000 Cr are in the pipeline. Will @RahulGandhi apologise to the country from the floor of the house? pic.twitter.com/KIQsWikByG — Raksha Mantri (@DefenceMinIndia) January 6, 2019 × Earlier, Gandhi alleged that she “lied” in Parliament that government orders worth Rs one lakh crore were provided to HAL while demanding that she should either place the documents in support of her statement in the House or resign. Gandhi’s attack came after a media report claimed that “not a single rupee of the said Rs 1 lakh crore has come to HAL, since not a single order, as claimed, has been signed till now”. The media report cited senior HAL management officials in order to back its claim. The Congress has been targeting the government, alleging that it denied the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) an offset contract under the Rafale fighter jets deal with France, a charge the government has denied. When you tell one lie, you need to keep spinning out more lies, to cover up the first one. In her eagerness to defend the PM's Rafale lie, the RM lied to Parliament. Tomorrow, RM must place before Parliament documents showing 1 Lakh crore of Govt orders to HAL. Or resign. pic.twitter.com/dYafyklH9o — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) January 6, 2019 × The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government has accused the Congress of not supporting HAL during its rule and asserted that the government is now strengthening the defence public sector undertaking. “When you tell one lie, you need to keep spinning out more lies, to cover up the first one. In her eagerness to defend the PM’s Rafale lie, the RM lied to Parliament,” Gandhi tweeted. “Tomorrow, RM must place before Parliament documents showing 1 Lakh crore of Govt orders to HAL. Or resign,” he said. Gandhi had on Saturday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of “weakening” HAL to help his “suit-boot” friend. His criticism followed a media report which claimed that HAL, grappling with low finances, was forced to borrow Rs 1,000 crore to pay salaries to its employees for the first time in years. Congress’s chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala tweeted on Sunday: “The Lying Defence Minister’s Lies Get Exposed! Defence Minister claimed that procurement orders worth Rs 1 Lakh Crore provided to HAL! HAL says Not a SINGLE PAISA has come, as Not a SINGLE ORDER has been signed!” “For the first time, HAL forced to take a loan of Rs1000 Cr to pay salaries!,” he added.

Rafale deal: Nirmala Sitharaman hits back at Rahul Gandhi after his dare, says he is 'misleading the nation'

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed poll in-charges for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Uttar Pradesh, among other states, in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

For Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andaman and Nicobar islands, BJP chief Amit Shah appointed Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, while Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was given charge of Delhi.

Moreover, Health Minister JP Nadda was named the Uttar Pradesh in-charge, while P Murlidhar Rao and Kiran Maheshwari will be responsible for overseeing preparations in Karnataka.

Kalyan Misra and Vishwas Sarang will oversee preparations in Haryana while Avinash Rai Khanna will be responsible for steering campaigning efforts in Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed poll in-charges for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Uttar Pradesh, among other states, in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appointed poll in-charges for Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Uttar Pradesh, among other states, in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. For Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Andaman and Nicobar islands, BJP chief Amit Shah appointed Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, while Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was given charge of Delhi. Moreover, Health Minister JP Nadda was named the Uttar Pradesh in-charge, while P Murlidhar Rao and Kiran Maheshwari will be responsible for overseeing preparations in Karnataka. Kalyan Misra and Vishwas Sarang will oversee preparations in Haryana while Avinash Rai Khanna will be responsible for steering campaigning efforts in Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir.

Piyush Goyal, Nirmala Sitharaman appointed BJP TN, Delhi poll in-charges

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-does-not-have-guts-to-come-to-parliament-to-confront-questions-on-rafale-rahul-gandhi-in-lok-sabha-187882">defended the government's move</a> to buy Rafale&nbsp;fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority.

"You stopped the deal, forgetting the Air Force was suffering because it didn't suit you. The deal didn't get you money,"&nbsp;a defiant Sitharaman told the Congress in Lok Sabha.

"Delivery of first Rafale&nbsp;will happen in 2019, the last aircraft of 36 jets will be delivered in 2022," India's defence minister informed the lower house of Parliament, while adding that "none of the figher aircraft were available "off the shelf".

"Our government got the jets for a lower price," the defence minister told the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;"CAG is conducting a performance audit of capital acquisition of air systems including the 36 Rafale. The complete draft audit report has been received by&nbsp;the&nbsp;Ministry of Defence in December. Response is under preparation," the minister added.

Sitharaman attacked the Congress saying it did not intend to buy the aircraft till something else was done. The defence minister attacked the Congress president Rahul Gandhi declaring that he lied about meeting French president Macron about the deal.

"There is something different between defence deal and deal in defence. We deal with national security as a priority," Nirmala Sitharaman said.

"Congress is shedding crocodile tears over HAL not getting the deal, why didn't it settle issues during its term," she asked.&nbsp;

The defence minister said there was no deal being struck between Dassault and HAL. Sitharaman said one Congress leader even called the Air chief a "liar". The defence minister accused the Congress of dragging its feet on the jet deal.

"Congress does not want to hear facts," she said.&nbsp;

"Have you (Rahul Gandhi) apologised after having winked an eye at the PM, after hugging the PM? This is not the way a House should run," Sitharaman lashed out, adding, "I don't have a khandan(pedigree) to boast on. PM also comes from a poor background. He has come here from hard work. I have my honour intact. PM has his honour intact. We have all come from normal backgrounds."

Replying to Sitharaman, Rahul Gandhi said: "Price is not part of the secrecy pact. My question is Anil Ambani was brought in for the contract. Who was the one to decide on Anil Ambani?"

The Congress president conceded that he had made a mistake by calling French President Macron as an ex-president. "I make mistakes. Yes, he is the current president, Mr&nbsp;Macron," Rahul Gandhi said.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the government's move to buy Rafale fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority.

Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman defended the government's move to buy Rafale fighter jets declaring that the country's "national security" was the government's top priority. "You stopped the deal, forgetting the Air Force was suffering because it didn't suit you. The deal didn't get you money," a defiant Sitharaman told the Congress in Lok Sabha. "Delivery of first Rafale will happen in 2019, the last aircraft of 36 jets will be delivered in 2022," India's defence minister informed the lower house of Parliament, while adding that "none of the figher aircraft were available "off the shelf". "Our government got the jets for a lower price," the defence minister told the Lok Sabha. "CAG is conducting a performance audit of capital acquisition of air systems including the 36 Rafale. The complete draft audit report has been received by the Ministry of Defence in December. Response is under preparation," the minister added. Sitharaman attacked the Congress saying it did not intend to buy the aircraft till something else was done. The defence minister attacked the Congress president Rahul Gandhi declaring that he lied about meeting French president Macron about the deal. "There is something different between defence deal and deal in defence. We deal with national security as a priority," Nirmala Sitharaman said. "Congress is shedding crocodile tears over HAL not getting the deal, why didn't it settle issues during its term," she asked. The defence minister said there was no deal being struck between Dassault and HAL. Sitharaman said one Congress leader even called the Air chief a "liar". The defence minister accused the Congress of dragging its feet on the jet deal. "Congress does not want to hear facts," she said. "Have you (Rahul Gandhi) apologised after having winked an eye at the PM, after hugging the PM? This is not the way a House should run," Sitharaman lashed out, adding, "I don't have a khandan(pedigree) to boast on. PM also comes from a poor background. He has come here from hard work. I have my honour intact. PM has his honour intact. We have all come from normal backgrounds." Replying to Sitharaman, Rahul Gandhi said: "Price is not part of the secrecy pact. My question is Anil Ambani was brought in for the contract. Who was the one to decide on Anil Ambani?" The Congress president conceded that he had made a mistake by calling French President Macron as an ex-president. "I make mistakes. Yes, he is the current president, Mr Macron," Rahul Gandhi said.

Rafale deal was done with national security as a priority, says Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament

The Rafale debate is set to resume in the Parliament today with Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expected to lead with the government's response on the matter.

Following a heated argument that unfolded in the Parliament over the controversial deal on Wednesday, Sitharaman took a jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for posing a list of questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Twitter. Sitharaman called Gandhi 'a student who failed in the classroom.'

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A student who fails in the classroom boasts and challenges from outside. <a href="https://t.co/YOEUIN4JGT">https://t.co/YOEUIN4JGT</a>
— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman/status/1080493227071877120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"A student who fails in the classroom boasts and challenges from outside," she tweeted.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday, tweeted out four questions to PM Modi with respect to the Rafale deal. He asked if the prime minister would show up or send a proxy.

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Tomorrow, the PM faces an Open Book <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleDeal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleDeal</a> Exam in Parliament. 
 
Here are the exam questions in advance: 
 
Q1. Why 36 aircraft, instead of the 126 the IAF needed? 
 
Q2. Why 1,600 Cr instead of 560 Cr per aircraft. 
 
Q4. Why AA instead of HAL? 
 
Will he show up? Or send a proxy?
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1080484355825373184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on Wednesday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-does-not-have-guts-to-come-to-parliament-to-confront-questions-on-rafale-rahul-gandhi-in-lok-sabha-187882">Gandhi opened the debate in the Parliament</a> and hit out at the government over Rafale deal. He attacked PM Modi saying his interview to news agency ANI on the first day of the new year was staged.

Gandhi said the PM does not have the guts to face questions on Rafale deal and is "hiding in his room".

He also sought Speaker's permission to play an audio clip wherein a Goa minister is allegedly heard quoting Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar that the latter has Rafale files in his bedroom. However, the Speaker denied him permission after Jaitley stepped in. Rahul then sought to read the transcript of the purported statement.&nbsp;

The Rafale debate is set to resume in the Parliament today with Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expected to lead with the government's response on the matter.

The Rafale debate is set to resume in the Parliament today with Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expected to lead with the government's response on the matter. Following a heated argument that unfolded in the Parliament over the controversial deal on Wednesday, Sitharaman took a jibe at Congress president Rahul Gandhi for posing a list of questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Twitter. Sitharaman called Gandhi 'a student who failed in the classroom.' A student who fails in the classroom boasts and challenges from outside. https://t.co/YOEUIN4JGT — Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) January 2, 2019 × "A student who fails in the classroom boasts and challenges from outside," she tweeted. Rahul Gandhi, on Wednesday, tweeted out four questions to PM Modi with respect to the Rafale deal. He asked if the prime minister would show up or send a proxy. Tomorrow, the PM faces an Open Book #RafaleDeal Exam in Parliament. Here are the exam questions in advance: Q1. Why 36 aircraft, instead of the 126 the IAF needed? Q2. Why 1,600 Cr instead of 560 Cr per aircraft. Q4. Why AA instead of HAL? Will he show up? Or send a proxy? — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) January 2, 2019 × Earlier on Wednesday, Gandhi opened the debate in the Parliament and hit out at the government over Rafale deal. He attacked PM Modi saying his interview to news agency ANI on the first day of the new year was staged. Gandhi said the PM does not have the guts to face questions on Rafale deal and is "hiding in his room". He also sought Speaker's permission to play an audio clip wherein a Goa minister is allegedly heard quoting Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar that the latter has Rafale files in his bedroom. However, the Speaker denied him permission after Jaitley stepped in. Rahul then sought to read the transcript of the purported statement.

Student who fails in classroom boasts and challenges from outside: Sitharaman on Rahul Gandhi

In pics: War of words over Rafale jet deal - who said what

Notwithstanding irritants on trade issues, India and the US made "landmark" progress in 2018 to bolster their strategic and defence ties from holding the maiden trilateral meeting with Japan to the first-ever 2+2 dialogue during which they signed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-sign-comcasa-agreement-to-deepen-defence-ties-163982">the long-pending </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-sign-comcasa-agreement-to-deepen-defence-ties-163982">COMCASA</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-sign-comcasa-agreement-to-deepen-defence-ties-163982"> agreement </a>that would open the way for sales of more sensitive US military equipment to India.

The trade disputes posed bumps on the road as President Donald Trump called India a "tariff king" in September. However, two months later, he praised Indians as tough negotiators as the two countries started talks on a bilateral trade deal.

India was among the few countries, which received a waiver on Iran sanctions from the Trump administration, which also pressed Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attack and announced a reward of $ 5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction in any country of any individual who committed, conspired to commit, or aided the 26/11 attack.

"This has been a landmark year for US-India ties as we build out stronger relationships across the board," Alice Wells, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, told PTI.

"Last month, President Trump met in Buenos Aires with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the first US-India-Japan or 'JAI' meeting as Prime Minister Modi called it" between the three leaders, and Vice President (Mike) Pence reviewed the rapid development of the strategic partnership during his meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Singapore," said Wells, who has been Trump administration's point person for the South and Central Asia.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo described the first 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in September as "symbolic of our increasingly close partnership," she said.

Pompeo along with Defence Secretary James Mattis were hosted by their Indian counterparts, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi.

"The 2+2 focused on operationalising India's status as a Major Defence Partner of the US, cooperation on global challenges, and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific," Wells said.

"The event culminated with the signing of the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-dialogue-india-us-sign-comcasa-agreement-to-deepen-defence-ties-163982">)</a>, which will facilitate greater interoperability between our forces, enhance information and intelligence sharing, and ensure that India has access to top-tier US military technology," she said.

"The finalisation of this agreement was a historic step and, since then, we have made significant strides toward finalising additional agreements that will enable our militaries and private sectors to work even closer together," she added.

India's strategic partnership with the US and its emergence as a leading global power was on display during other high-level gatherings this year, including two meetings of the quadrilateral partners (Australia, India, Japan, and the US) and at the India-Japan-US trilateral meeting at the G-20 summit last month.

"At these meetings, US and Indian officials discussed our shared commitment to maintaining and strengthening a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific based on respect and partnership, not domination," she said.

On the economic front, India-US trade relationship continues to grow, she said. Bilateral trade grew to $ 126 billion last year, and, parallel with the launch of the Strategic Energy Partnership, US-sourced oil and liquefied natural gas landed on Indian shores. "Still, we can do much more. US companies need better access to India's markets in order for us to realise the full potential of our economic partnership," Wells said.

She said the Trump administration looks forward to building on this relationship's momentum and working even more closely with the Indian counterparts on a range of shared strategic interests next year.

Nisha Desai Biswal, president of the US-India Business Council, believes 2018 experienced major upheavals impacting longstanding trade agreements and frameworks, with retaliatory tariffs, rising protectionism, and domestic political clashes spilling over into the economic policy of major economies.

"Despite these trade headwinds, the US-India commercial and strategic relationship continues to enjoy strong bipartisan support in the US, underpinned by rapidly expanding bilateral trade," she said.

On the US-India strategic front, proponents of greater interoperability scored some major wins, including the conferring of STA-1 status to India by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. "This puts India on par with America"s closest allies," she said.

Biswal said that on the commercial front, the private sector will be watching closely to see whether the two governments can reach a bilateral trade deal and resolve key trade irritants impacting US business.

"Business community engagement will be particularly critical in 2019, with a challenging political environment in both countries making protectionist policy a significant concern," she said.

The resumption of the US-India Commercial Dialogue next February, a US-India CEO Forum and the potential for a Trade Policy Forum will make 2019 a particularly important year, Biswal said.

All eyes are right now on the upcoming elections and how that will impact the economy and overall investment climate, she noted.

Alyssa Ayres from the Council of Foreign Relations said bilateral ties have made good progress on strategic and defence front, but economic ties are bumpier.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The trade disputes posed bumps on the road as President Donald Trump called India a 'tariff king' in September. However, two months later, he praised Indians as tough negotiators.

Notwithstanding irritants on trade issues, India and the US made "landmark" progress in 2018 to bolster their strategic and defence ties from holding the maiden trilateral meeting with Japan to the first-ever 2+2 dialogue during which they signed the long-pending COMCASA agreement that would open the way for sales of more sensitive US military equipment to India. The trade disputes posed bumps on the road as President Donald Trump called India a "tariff king" in September. However, two months later, he praised Indians as tough negotiators as the two countries started talks on a bilateral trade deal. India was among the few countries, which received a waiver on Iran sanctions from the Trump administration, which also pressed Pakistan to bring to justice the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai attack and announced a reward of $ 5 million for information leading to the arrest or conviction in any country of any individual who committed, conspired to commit, or aided the 26/11 attack. "This has been a landmark year for US-India ties as we build out stronger relationships across the board," Alice Wells, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, told PTI. "Last month, President Trump met in Buenos Aires with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in the first US-India-Japan or 'JAI' meeting as Prime Minister Modi called it" between the three leaders, and Vice President (Mike) Pence reviewed the rapid development of the strategic partnership during his meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Singapore," said Wells, who has been Trump administration's point person for the South and Central Asia. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo described the first 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in September as "symbolic of our increasingly close partnership," she said. Pompeo along with Defence Secretary James Mattis were hosted by their Indian counterparts, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi. "The 2+2 focused on operationalising India's status as a Major Defence Partner of the US, cooperation on global challenges, and our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific," Wells said. "The event culminated with the signing of the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), which will facilitate greater interoperability between our forces, enhance information and intelligence sharing, and ensure that India has access to top-tier US military technology," she said. "The finalisation of this agreement was a historic step and, since then, we have made significant strides toward finalising additional agreements that will enable our militaries and private sectors to work even closer together," she added. India's strategic partnership with the US and its emergence as a leading global power was on display during other high-level gatherings this year, including two meetings of the quadrilateral partners (Australia, India, Japan, and the US) and at the India-Japan-US trilateral meeting at the G-20 summit last month. "At these meetings, US and Indian officials discussed our shared commitment to maintaining and strengthening a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific based on respect and partnership, not domination," she said. On the economic front, India-US trade relationship continues to grow, she said. Bilateral trade grew to $ 126 billion last year, and, parallel with the launch of the Strategic Energy Partnership, US-sourced oil and liquefied natural gas landed on Indian shores. "Still, we can do much more. US companies need better access to India's markets in order for us to realise the full potential of our economic partnership," Wells said. She said the Trump administration looks forward to building on this relationship's momentum and working even more closely with the Indian counterparts on a range of shared strategic interests next year. Nisha Desai Biswal, president of the US-India Business Council, believes 2018 experienced major upheavals impacting longstanding trade agreements and frameworks, with retaliatory tariffs, rising protectionism, and domestic political clashes spilling over into the economic policy of major economies. "Despite these trade headwinds, the US-India commercial and strategic relationship continues to enjoy strong bipartisan support in the US, underpinned by rapidly expanding bilateral trade," she said. On the US-India strategic front, proponents of greater interoperability scored some major wins, including the conferring of STA-1 status to India by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. "This puts India on par with America"s closest allies," she said. Biswal said that on the commercial front, the private sector will be watching closely to see whether the two governments can reach a bilateral trade deal and resolve key trade irritants impacting US business. "Business community engagement will be particularly critical in 2019, with a challenging political environment in both countries making protectionist policy a significant concern," she said. The resumption of the US-India Commercial Dialogue next February, a US-India CEO Forum and the potential for a Trade Policy Forum will make 2019 a particularly important year, Biswal said. All eyes are right now on the upcoming elections and how that will impact the economy and overall investment climate, she noted. Alyssa Ayres from the Council of Foreign Relations said bilateral ties have made good progress on strategic and defence front, but economic ties are bumpier.

2018: A landmark year for India-US strategic relationship

Hours after a&nbsp;three-judge Supreme Court bench said that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-probe-needed-in-rafale-fighter-jet-deal-rules-supreme-court-183957">detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required</a>,&nbsp;Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hit out at the Congress party and said ''falsehood has short life''.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Arun Jaitley addressed a rare joint press conference on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sitharaman said that on all three counts over which concerns were raised, the Supreme Court had today come out with a clear verdict. The matter has been thoroughly through the court and&nbsp;laid to rest, she said.

The Court clearly said "no evidence of commercial favouritism," Sitharaman added.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley: Falsehood has a very short life. In this case, it was a few months. Falsehood lowers the credibility of its creator. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleDeal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleDeal</a> <a href="https://t.co/BBG1F9JBUo">pic.twitter.com/BBG1F9JBUo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073531352048394241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Jaitley&nbsp;stated that the Supreme Court has clearly deemed the purchase of the aircraft as "very important" to the country's defence and added&nbsp;"disrupters have lost."

Arun Jaitley lashed out at the Opposition stating that "Congress' fictional writing compromised national security."
<img alt="Rafale deal" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0aa6f86-b3cd-485a-92e1-a33a7bc5e843" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/RAFALE%20DEAL%20CREATIVE%20%281%29.jpg" />
He added that the deal "protected both security and commercial interest of India."

"Security interest because it increases combat ability of India, commercial interest because the final price was significantly lower both for aircraft and weaponised aircraft than what was negotiated in 2007 and 2012," the Finance Minister noted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
FM: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleDeal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleDeal</a> protected both security&amp;commercial interest of India. Security interest because it increases combat ability of India, commercial interest because the final price was significantly lower both for aircraft&amp;weaponised aircraft than what was negotiated in 2007 &amp; 2012. <a href="https://t.co/ARWkNnsb1m">pic.twitter.com/ARWkNnsb1m</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073533171910762496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"All the figures by the govt are correct and all the figures by Mr Rahul Gandhi are false and I have justified it... The truth has only one version and falsehood has many. That is why Mr Rahul Gandhi quoted several figures," Jaitley said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley: All the figures by the govt are correct and all the figures by Mr Rahul Gandhi are false and I have justified it... The truth has only one version and falsehood has many. That is why Mr Rahul Gandhi quoted several figures. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleDeal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleDeal</a> <a href="https://t.co/fIyD1d13g4">pic.twitter.com/fIyD1d13g4</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073535476634714114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A three-judge Supreme Court bench today said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required.

Chief Justice of India(CJI) Ranjan Gogoi said the need and quality control of the Rafale deal wasn't in question. The top court ruled out probe into the pricing details of the deal.

"There is no occasion to doubt the decision-making process in the Rafale deal," the court said while delivering the verdict.

"We can't compel the government to purchase 126 aircraft&nbsp;and its not proper for the court to examine each aspect of this case. It isn't a job of the court to compare pricing details," it said, adding,"we don't find substantial matter to interfere with the issue of procurement, pricing and offset partner in Rafale jet deal."&nbsp;

The top court dismissed all petitions pertaining to the Rafale fighter jet deal.

"Perception of individuals can't be the basis for roving inquiry in sensitive issue of defence procurement," the apex court added.&nbsp;

Hours after a three-judge Supreme Court bench said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hit out at the Congress party and said ''falsehood has short life''.

Hours after a three-judge Supreme Court bench said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hit out at the Congress party and said ''falsehood has short life''. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Arun Jaitley addressed a rare joint press conference on Friday. Sitharaman said that on all three counts over which concerns were raised, the Supreme Court had today come out with a clear verdict. The matter has been thoroughly through the court and laid to rest, she said. The Court clearly said "no evidence of commercial favouritism," Sitharaman added. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley: Falsehood has a very short life. In this case, it was a few months. Falsehood lowers the credibility of its creator. #RafaleDeal pic.twitter.com/BBG1F9JBUo — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2018 × Jaitley stated that the Supreme Court has clearly deemed the purchase of the aircraft as "very important" to the country's defence and added "disrupters have lost." Arun Jaitley lashed out at the Opposition stating that "Congress' fictional writing compromised national security." He added that the deal "protected both security and commercial interest of India." "Security interest because it increases combat ability of India, commercial interest because the final price was significantly lower both for aircraft and weaponised aircraft than what was negotiated in 2007 and 2012," the Finance Minister noted. FM: #RafaleDeal protected both security&commercial interest of India. Security interest because it increases combat ability of India, commercial interest because the final price was significantly lower both for aircraft&weaponised aircraft than what was negotiated in 2007 & 2012. pic.twitter.com/ARWkNnsb1m — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2018 × "All the figures by the govt are correct and all the figures by Mr Rahul Gandhi are false and I have justified it... The truth has only one version and falsehood has many. That is why Mr Rahul Gandhi quoted several figures," Jaitley said. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley: All the figures by the govt are correct and all the figures by Mr Rahul Gandhi are false and I have justified it... The truth has only one version and falsehood has many. That is why Mr Rahul Gandhi quoted several figures. #RafaleDeal pic.twitter.com/fIyD1d13g4 — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2018 × A three-judge Supreme Court bench today said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required. Chief Justice of India(CJI) Ranjan Gogoi said the need and quality control of the Rafale deal wasn't in question. The top court ruled out probe into the pricing details of the deal. "There is no occasion to doubt the decision-making process in the Rafale deal," the court said while delivering the verdict. "We can't compel the government to purchase 126 aircraft and its not proper for the court to examine each aspect of this case. It isn't a job of the court to compare pricing details," it said, adding,"we don't find substantial matter to interfere with the issue of procurement, pricing and offset partner in Rafale jet deal." The top court dismissed all petitions pertaining to the Rafale fighter jet deal. "Perception of individuals can't be the basis for roving inquiry in sensitive issue of defence procurement," the apex court added.

Falsehood has a short life: Arun Jaitley after Supreme Court's judgement on Rafale deal

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement.

Gandhi has repeatedly alleged a mega scam in the Rafale fighter jet deal and accused the Modi government of favouring a private company in offset contract related to the Rs 58,000-crore defence agreement with Paris.

The government has vehemently denied Gandhi's charges.

"If he contacts and holds discussions with former Defence Minister (and Congress leader) A K Antony on process of procurement in the Rafale deal, he will understand it," she told reporters here.

The BJP leader was replying to a query about Gandhi making the controversial deal a big issue in the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections.

"But his intention was not to understand it. His intention is to misguide people over Rafale deal, so wherever he goes he raises it to misguide people," Sitharaman added.

"The public won't be misguided by him. We have taken the decision (to buy 36 Rafale jets from France) without kickback," the minister said.

She said this level of transparency in the Ministry of Defence was not there during earlier procurements (under the Congress rule).

To another query on the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said she would not comment as the issue is pending before the Supreme Court.

She said the NDA government has been giving clear and correct information about the mega defence deal and it will continue doing so.

Sitharaman said the Congress has no poll issue to talk about in Madhya Pradesh so it is raising the Rafale matter in the state, which goes to the polls on November 28.

"It is not a national issue also," the minister said to another query on the Rafale deal.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Friday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi is "misguiding" people on the Rafale fighter aircraft deal with France and advised him to approach her predecessor A K Antony of the Congress to understand the process of defence procurement. Gandhi has repeatedly alleged a mega scam in the Rafale fighter jet deal and accused the Modi government of favouring a private company in offset contract related to the Rs 58,000-crore defence agreement with Paris. The government has vehemently denied Gandhi's charges. "If he contacts and holds discussions with former Defence Minister (and Congress leader) A K Antony on process of procurement in the Rafale deal, he will understand it," she told reporters here. The BJP leader was replying to a query about Gandhi making the controversial deal a big issue in the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections. "But his intention was not to understand it. His intention is to misguide people over Rafale deal, so wherever he goes he raises it to misguide people," Sitharaman added. "The public won't be misguided by him. We have taken the decision (to buy 36 Rafale jets from France) without kickback," the minister said. She said this level of transparency in the Ministry of Defence was not there during earlier procurements (under the Congress rule). To another query on the Rafale deal, Sitharaman said she would not comment as the issue is pending before the Supreme Court. She said the NDA government has been giving clear and correct information about the mega defence deal and it will continue doing so. Sitharaman said the Congress has no poll issue to talk about in Madhya Pradesh so it is raising the Rafale matter in the state, which goes to the polls on November 28. "It is not a national issue also," the minister said to another query on the Rafale deal.

Sitharaman to Rahul Gandhi: Meet AK Antony to understand Rafale buy process

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