Union Minister of Railways, Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that the government is targeting to become one of the top 25 countries in ease of doing business by the year 2024.

"Our target is to first come among the top 50 countries and then eventually find a spot among the top 25 countries in the list. Only developed countries, who have advanced economies, are among the top 25. India's target is to become a part of that club," Piyush Goyal told ANI.

The union minister said that when Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in 2014, he felt the need to reform the economic policies so as to attract investment on a large scale.

"There was not much development in the first few years of our government. After the year 2016, we started taking landmark decisions regarding the economy. Once the World Bank started assessing the impact of those decisions, India rose on the ease of doing business list," he said.

Goyal said that India ranked 142 in ease of doing business in the year 2014 but has moved up to 63 this year.

"Probably no other country would have made such growth in this short period of time. We had picked up from a declining trend in 2014 and have reached at 63 now. India is one of the countries who have been rising on the list for the past three years," he said.

"It is also important that India has moved to 52nd rank from 108 earlier in insolvency list. We were also at 27th rank in construction permits list from 52 earlier," Goyal added.

The union minister is in Sweden, where he had participated in the 19th Indo-Swedish Joint Commission for Economic, Industrial and Scientific Cooperation (JCEC).

Union Minister of Railways, Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that the government is targeting to become one of the top 25 countries in ease of doing business by the year 2024.

Union Minister of Railways, Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that the government is targeting to become one of the top 25 countries in ease of doing business by the year 2024. "Our target is to first come among the top 50 countries and then eventually find a spot among the top 25 countries in the list. Only developed countries, who have advanced economies, are among the top 25. India's target is to become a part of that club," Piyush Goyal told ANI. The union minister said that when Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in 2014, he felt the need to reform the economic policies so as to attract investment on a large scale. "There was not much development in the first few years of our government. After the year 2016, we started taking landmark decisions regarding the economy. Once the World Bank started assessing the impact of those decisions, India rose on the ease of doing business list," he said. Goyal said that India ranked 142 in ease of doing business in the year 2014 but has moved up to 63 this year. "Probably no other country would have made such growth in this short period of time. We had picked up from a declining trend in 2014 and have reached at 63 now. India is one of the countries who have been rising on the list for the past three years," he said. "It is also important that India has moved to 52nd rank from 108 earlier in insolvency list. We were also at 27th rank in construction permits list from 52 earlier," Goyal added. The union minister is in Sweden, where he had participated in the 19th Indo-Swedish Joint Commission for Economic, Industrial and Scientific Cooperation (JCEC).

India aims to feature among top 25 countries in ease of doing business by 2024: Piyush Goyal

After India jumped 14 positions to be ranked 63rd in the World Bank's ease of doing business, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "path-breaking improvements" in the country's business environment.

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India has jumped from 77th to 63rd rank in the Ease of Doing Business Rankings released just now by the World Bank. 
 
Congratulations to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> ji for the path breaking improvements in India's business environment for nation's prosperity and job creation. <a href="https://t.co/67TwARmssS">pic.twitter.com/67TwARmssS</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1187196279085862912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has remarkably improved in ease of doing business, reported World Bank in its ease of doing business 2020 survey. The country is placed in 63rd position among 190 countries.

According to the report issued by World Bank on Thursday, India appeared among the top 10 improvers for the third time in a row. The Bank lauded New Delhi for a "remarkable reform effort".

"In economies on the list of 10 top improvers, leaders of India and China adopted the Doing Business indicators as a core component of their reform strategies," said the World Bank.

It also praised Modi's 'Make in India' campaign which focused on attracting foreign investment, boosting the private sector, manufacturing in particular, and enhancing the country's overall competitiveness.

In India, the report said, the importing and exporting also became easier for companies with the creation of a single electronic platform for trade stakeholders, upgrades to port infrastructure and improvements to electronic submission of documents.

Last year, India was ranked 77th. In six years of the Modi government, India's ranking improved 79 places from 142nd in 2014 to 63th in 2019, a record for a major economy.

After India jumped 14 positions to be ranked 63rd in the World Bank's ease of doing business, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "path-breaking improvements" in the country's business environment.

After India jumped 14 positions to be ranked 63rd in the World Bank's ease of doing business, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "path-breaking improvements" in the country's business environment. India has jumped from 77th to 63rd rank in the Ease of Doing Business Rankings released just now by the World Bank. Congratulations to PM @NarendraModi ji for the path breaking improvements in India's business environment for nation's prosperity and job creation. pic.twitter.com/67TwARmssS — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) October 24, 2019 × India has remarkably improved in ease of doing business, reported World Bank in its ease of doing business 2020 survey. The country is placed in 63rd position among 190 countries. According to the report issued by World Bank on Thursday, India appeared among the top 10 improvers for the third time in a row. The Bank lauded New Delhi for a "remarkable reform effort". "In economies on the list of 10 top improvers, leaders of India and China adopted the Doing Business indicators as a core component of their reform strategies," said the World Bank. It also praised Modi's 'Make in India' campaign which focused on attracting foreign investment, boosting the private sector, manufacturing in particular, and enhancing the country's overall competitiveness. In India, the report said, the importing and exporting also became easier for companies with the creation of a single electronic platform for trade stakeholders, upgrades to port infrastructure and improvements to electronic submission of documents. Last year, India was ranked 77th. In six years of the Modi government, India's ranking improved 79 places from 142nd in 2014 to 63th in 2019, a record for a major economy.

Piyush Goyal lauds PM for path breaking improvements in India's business environment

Union Minister for Railways Piyush Goyal said that the central government is planning to provide WiFi service inside trains in the next four to four-and-a-half years.

Goyal, who is currently in Sweden, said that WiFi service is available at around 5150 railway stations in India.

"We are trying to provide WiFi services at all 6,500 stations by end of next year," Goyal said.

When asked about providing WiFi service inside trains, Goyal said, "It is a more complicated technology subject. Giving WiFi in running trains requires investment... Towers need to be put and there has to be equipment inside trains. In this, we might have to bring in foreign technology and investors."

He added, "But it will help a lot in terms of security as CCTVs would be there in every train compartment and its live feed will go to a police station. The signalling system will work in a better manner through WiFi facility. In the next four or four-and-a-half years, we will start this facility."

Meanwhile, Goyal told media here, "We are doing station modernisation with the help of private players like we did in Bhopal for instance where a private company has modernised the entire station and it is near in completion. NBCC is working in 12-13 location to modernise the station and simultaneously to develop the complexes for housing, commercial activity, shopping malls in a cross-subsidy model, once this model becomes successful there will be faster rollout across the country."

Goyal said that the government is planning to segregate the station modernisation with the monetisation of land.

"There are lots of possibilities to involve the private sector in these activities. There are several locations across the country where there will be a huge demand of Railway land. We have planned to use the Railway land for solar installation in a big way. Under the leadership of our Prime Minister, we want to make Railways the world's first zero-emission Railway," he said.

The Union Minister said that in another four-five years, Railways will be 100 per cent electric.

"We are also planning for industrial parks on Railway lands. It's a new area and we are trying to locate certain parcels of land that the Railways owns, but does not need requirement which can be at some stage become industrial parks and become generators of a number of jobs and working opportunities while adding to the economic activity of India," he said.

Union Minister for Railways Piyush Goyal said that the central government is planning to provide WiFi service inside trains in the next four to four-and-a-half years.

Union Minister for Railways Piyush Goyal said that the central government is planning to provide WiFi service inside trains in the next four to four-and-a-half years. Goyal, who is currently in Sweden, said that WiFi service is available at around 5150 railway stations in India. "We are trying to provide WiFi services at all 6,500 stations by end of next year," Goyal said. When asked about providing WiFi service inside trains, Goyal said, "It is a more complicated technology subject. Giving WiFi in running trains requires investment... Towers need to be put and there has to be equipment inside trains. In this, we might have to bring in foreign technology and investors." He added, "But it will help a lot in terms of security as CCTVs would be there in every train compartment and its live feed will go to a police station. The signalling system will work in a better manner through WiFi facility. In the next four or four-and-a-half years, we will start this facility." Meanwhile, Goyal told media here, "We are doing station modernisation with the help of private players like we did in Bhopal for instance where a private company has modernised the entire station and it is near in completion. NBCC is working in 12-13 location to modernise the station and simultaneously to develop the complexes for housing, commercial activity, shopping malls in a cross-subsidy model, once this model becomes successful there will be faster rollout across the country." Goyal said that the government is planning to segregate the station modernisation with the monetisation of land. "There are lots of possibilities to involve the private sector in these activities. There are several locations across the country where there will be a huge demand of Railway land. We have planned to use the Railway land for solar installation in a big way. Under the leadership of our Prime Minister, we want to make Railways the world's first zero-emission Railway," he said. The Union Minister said that in another four-five years, Railways will be 100 per cent electric. "We are also planning for industrial parks on Railway lands. It's a new area and we are trying to locate certain parcels of land that the Railways owns, but does not need requirement which can be at some stage become industrial parks and become generators of a number of jobs and working opportunities while adding to the economic activity of India," he said.

Trains to get WiFi service, says Piyush Goyal

India's Trade Minister Piyush Goyal said on Monday that the broad outline of a trade deal with the United States has been worked out and suggested there could be an announcement soon.

India's Trade Minister Piyush Goyal said on Monday that the broad outline of a trade deal with the United States has been worked out and suggested there could be an announcement soon. The two countries have been locked in trade disputes for months, slapping higher tariffs on each other's products and the US withdrawing a key concession to India. The collateral damage of the United States' trade wars is being felt around the world as President Donald Trump renegotiates relationships with many of Washington’s top trading partners. Washington has been concerned about Indian policies that mandate foreign firms to store more data locally and restrict the way US e-commerce giants such as Walmart-owned Flipkart and Amazon.com operate. Goyal told a business conference that he was hoping to meet United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer soon. "We have almost resolved the broad contours of what we are going to announce. I don't see any great difficulty in closing the gap on the first announcement," Goyal said at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF). The deal under discussion includes lowering tariffs on U.S. farm produce while giving Indian pharmaceuticals faster approval to enter the US market. India dominates the world’s generic drugs market and the United States is among its top importers. "With regards to the trade talks between India and the US, Commerce and Industry Minister said that things are on the right track and India is looking to the U.S. for technology, innovation, skills and quality education," a government statement quoted Goyal as saying. According to USISPF estimates, India-US bilateral trade is projected to grow to $238 billon by 2025 from $142.1 billion in 2018. US trade and investments are expected to grow in sectors such as defence, commercial aircrafts, oil and LNG, coal, machinery and electronics. India is aiming to promote automotive, pharmaceuticals, seafood, IT and travel services to the US market. Goyal said India and the US must look at a larger trade agreement, the government statement said. It did not elaborate.

Trade pact differences with US broadly resolved: Piyush Goyal

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra will win around 225 seats.

As polling is underway in Maharashtra and Haryana for Assembly elections, Goyal has expressed confidence and said that both Manohar Lal Khattar-led government in Haryana and Devendra Fadnavis-led government in Maharashtra will come to power again.

"I am confident that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will win around 225 seats, opposition has lost all credibility and is nowhere in the contest. People are with Modi and Fadnavis. In Haryana, we are getting to see our target of 75-plus seats," Goyal told media here.

Polling for 90 seats of Haryana and 288 constituencies of Maharashtra began at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm in the evening.

The electoral fate of over 4400 candidates- 1169 in Haryana and 3237 in Maharashtra will be sealed in EVMs by the voters who will exercise their democratic franchise in the assembly elections.

In Haryana, 19,578 polling stations have been set up whereas there are 96,661 polling booths in Maharashtra for citizens to cast their votes.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra will win around 225 seats. As polling is underway in Maharashtra and Haryana for Assembly elections, Goyal has expressed confidence and said that both Manohar Lal Khattar-led government in Haryana and Devendra Fadnavis-led government in Maharashtra will come to power again.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday said that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in Maharashtra will win around 225 seats. As polling is underway in Maharashtra and Haryana for Assembly elections, Goyal has expressed confidence and said that both Manohar Lal Khattar-led government in Haryana and Devendra Fadnavis-led government in Maharashtra will come to power again. "I am confident that the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will win around 225 seats, opposition has lost all credibility and is nowhere in the contest. People are with Modi and Fadnavis. In Haryana, we are getting to see our target of 75-plus seats," Goyal told media here. Polling for 90 seats of Haryana and 288 constituencies of Maharashtra began at 7 am and will continue till 6 pm in the evening. The electoral fate of over 4400 candidates- 1169 in Haryana and 3237 in Maharashtra will be sealed in EVMs by the voters who will exercise their democratic franchise in the assembly elections. In Haryana, 19,578 polling stations have been set up whereas there are 96,661 polling booths in Maharashtra for citizens to cast their votes.

BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will win around 225 seats: Piyush Goyal

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that strict action will be taken against multi-brand retailers found violating FDI norms set for the e-commerce companies by the central government.

"The Central government has formed clear guidelines for e-commerce. It has made clear that if anyone makes e-commerce a means for multi-brand retail, stringent action will be taken against them," he said during a presser on Thursday.

He continued, "According to the spirit of the law, in multiband retail, FDI is not permitted above 49 per cent. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stands with the small retailers of the country and will not let anyone's livelihood come under stress. We have made it clear that if anybody tries to use the route of multi-brand retail, then strict action will be taken."

Highlighting one of the guidelines, Goyal said, "E-commerce companies have no right to discount products or sell them on predatory prices and damage the retail market. They also don't have permission to make products and sell it themselves," he said.

Goyal informed that some complaints have been brought to his attention regarding violations by e-commerce companies.

"Commerce Ministry has sent a questionnaire seeking details from the concerned parties in the matter. Another supplementary questionnaire is also being sent. Required action will be taken after the details are received," he added.

The Union Minister said that if the law has been violated, either in the letter or in spirit, strict actions will be taken.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that strict action will be taken against multi-brand retailers found violating FDI norms set for the e-commerce companies by the central government.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal said that strict action will be taken against multi-brand retailers found violating FDI norms set for the e-commerce companies by the central government. "The Central government has formed clear guidelines for e-commerce. It has made clear that if anyone makes e-commerce a means for multi-brand retail, stringent action will be taken against them," he said during a presser on Thursday. He continued, "According to the spirit of the law, in multiband retail, FDI is not permitted above 49 per cent. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stands with the small retailers of the country and will not let anyone's livelihood come under stress. We have made it clear that if anybody tries to use the route of multi-brand retail, then strict action will be taken." Highlighting one of the guidelines, Goyal said, "E-commerce companies have no right to discount products or sell them on predatory prices and damage the retail market. They also don't have permission to make products and sell it themselves," he said. Goyal informed that some complaints have been brought to his attention regarding violations by e-commerce companies. "Commerce Ministry has sent a questionnaire seeking details from the concerned parties in the matter. Another supplementary questionnaire is also being sent. Required action will be taken after the details are received," he added. The Union Minister said that if the law has been violated, either in the letter or in spirit, strict actions will be taken.

Flouting of FDI norms by multi brand retailers will invite strict action: Piyush Goyal

Training guns at the Congress party, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that former prime minister Manmohan Singh-led government had totally failed on all economic parameters.

"When we (BJP) came to power, we inherited an economy with double-digit inflation. During Manmohan Singh government, the fiscal deficit was over 6.1 per cent and the current account deficit was over 2 per cent. In every economic parameter, the Manmohan Singh government had failed completely," he said.

"In spite of being such an eminent economist, Manmohan Singh reflected either some compulsions or complete lack of understanding of economics and business. Of course, it doesn't surprise me because we saw some of the worst scams and governance under the UPA regime," Goyal said.

In view of the impending Assembly elections in Maharashtra, Goyal also took a dig at former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan saying his government was "non-functional" in the state.

"UPA gave a double-engine government at the Centre and in Maharashtra, double-engine of corruption, ineptitude and bad governance, inefficiency and infighting within the alliance," he added.

The Union Minister said, in contrast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government and Devendra Fadnavis' government in Maharashtra have worked together to revive the economy.

Goyal's comments come merely hours after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh slammed the BJP government over a range of issues including economic slowdown, abrogation of Article 370 and PMC Bank crisis.

Training guns at the Congress party, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that former prime minister Manmohan Singh-led government had totally failed on all economic parameters.

Training guns at the Congress party, Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday said that former prime minister Manmohan Singh-led government had totally failed on all economic parameters. "When we (BJP) came to power, we inherited an economy with double-digit inflation. During Manmohan Singh government, the fiscal deficit was over 6.1 per cent and the current account deficit was over 2 per cent. In every economic parameter, the Manmohan Singh government had failed completely," he said. "In spite of being such an eminent economist, Manmohan Singh reflected either some compulsions or complete lack of understanding of economics and business. Of course, it doesn't surprise me because we saw some of the worst scams and governance under the UPA regime," Goyal said. In view of the impending Assembly elections in Maharashtra, Goyal also took a dig at former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan saying his government was "non-functional" in the state. "UPA gave a double-engine government at the Centre and in Maharashtra, double-engine of corruption, ineptitude and bad governance, inefficiency and infighting within the alliance," he added. The Union Minister said, in contrast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government and Devendra Fadnavis' government in Maharashtra have worked together to revive the economy. Goyal's comments come merely hours after former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh slammed the BJP government over a range of issues including economic slowdown, abrogation of Article 370 and PMC Bank crisis.

Manmohan Singh government had totally failed on every economic parameter: Piyush Goyal

UAE entities are expected to invest up to USD 7 billion in India's food sector in the next three years as part of the UAE-India food corridor project that aims to secure the UAE's food security, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal told Emirates News Agency, WAM.

These entities, coordinated by Dubai-based Emaar Group, plan to invest up to US$5 billion in mega food parks and similar facilities in various Indian cities, and up to US$2 billion in contract farming, sourcing of agro commodities and related infrastructure, Piyush Goyal had said on September 24.

Emaar in a statement issued to WAM on Tuesday said, "Emaar Group is coordinating with the Government of India in respect of the investment relating to food security in the UAE. The investment will be made by other UAE entities, the details of which will be declared at a later stage."

It was reported earlier that the idea of the joint food corridor for the UAE's food security was inspired by India's strategic petroleum reserve in Padur in south India, in partnership with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, ADNOC. Likewise, the UAE could have a food reserve in India.

"They [UAE entities] have expressed their interest to invest up to USD 5 billion in mega food parks, logistics and warehouse hubs, fruits and vegetable hubs in various Indian cities, which would create 200,000 jobs across India," said the minister who was in the UAE earlier this week on an official visit.

The proposed projects are in various cities, such as mega food parks in Kutch in the western state of Gujarat and Aurangabad in the western state of Maharashtra, Goyal said.

A food park in Pawarkheda in the central state of Madhya Pradesh, logistics and warehouse hub in Itarsi in Madhya Pradesh, fruits and vegetable hub in Nashik and warehousing hub in Bhiwandi in Maharashtra are other projects, he explained.

The UAE entities plan to make an indicative investment up to USD2 billion in contract farming, sourcing of several agro commodities, setting up of food parks and other related infrastructure for food processing, the minister said.

They are considering western Indian states of Gujarat and Maharashtra for the proposed projects and the possibility of eight food parks is being currently evaluated, Goyal revealed.

The food export possibilities to the UAE and wider region are explored, which will turn into a win-win situation for both India and UAE, he said.

Reports in 2018 said that India had suggested to the UAE leadership it could be a partner in the UAE's food security.

Although India grows enough food for its 1.3 billion people, 30 per cent of that food is wasted for lack of appropriate infrastructure for storage, processing and transportation, which could be built by the UAE's investments.

The UAE can buy the food produced by the project at a cheaper price while Indian farmers will get a comparatively better price for their crops.

UAE entities are expected to invest up to USD 7 billion in India's food sector in the next three years as part of the UAE-India food corridor project that aims to secure the UAE's food security, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal told Emirates News Agency, WAM.

UAE entities are expected to invest up to USD 7 billion in India's food sector in the next three years as part of the UAE-India food corridor project that aims to secure the UAE's food security, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal told Emirates News Agency, WAM. These entities, coordinated by Dubai-based Emaar Group, plan to invest up to US$5 billion in mega food parks and similar facilities in various Indian cities, and up to US$2 billion in contract farming, sourcing of agro commodities and related infrastructure, Piyush Goyal had said on September 24. Emaar in a statement issued to WAM on Tuesday said, "Emaar Group is coordinating with the Government of India in respect of the investment relating to food security in the UAE. The investment will be made by other UAE entities, the details of which will be declared at a later stage." It was reported earlier that the idea of the joint food corridor for the UAE's food security was inspired by India's strategic petroleum reserve in Padur in south India, in partnership with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, ADNOC. Likewise, the UAE could have a food reserve in India. "They [UAE entities] have expressed their interest to invest up to USD 5 billion in mega food parks, logistics and warehouse hubs, fruits and vegetable hubs in various Indian cities, which would create 200,000 jobs across India," said the minister who was in the UAE earlier this week on an official visit. The proposed projects are in various cities, such as mega food parks in Kutch in the western state of Gujarat and Aurangabad in the western state of Maharashtra, Goyal said. A food park in Pawarkheda in the central state of Madhya Pradesh, logistics and warehouse hub in Itarsi in Madhya Pradesh, fruits and vegetable hub in Nashik and warehousing hub in Bhiwandi in Maharashtra are other projects, he explained. The UAE entities plan to make an indicative investment up to USD2 billion in contract farming, sourcing of several agro commodities, setting up of food parks and other related infrastructure for food processing, the minister said. They are considering western Indian states of Gujarat and Maharashtra for the proposed projects and the possibility of eight food parks is being currently evaluated, Goyal revealed. The food export possibilities to the UAE and wider region are explored, which will turn into a win-win situation for both India and UAE, he said. Reports in 2018 said that India had suggested to the UAE leadership it could be a partner in the UAE's food security. Although India grows enough food for its 1.3 billion people, 30 per cent of that food is wasted for lack of appropriate infrastructure for storage, processing and transportation, which could be built by the UAE's investments. The UAE can buy the food produced by the project at a cheaper price while Indian farmers will get a comparatively better price for their crops.

UAE entities to invest up to $7 billion in India-UAE food corridor: Piyush Goyal

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal met Australian Trade Minister Simon Birmingham and held discussions over various trade issues including ways to prevent market-distorting trade practices.

The ministers met on Friday in Bangkok on the sidelines of ninth Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Intersessional Ministerial meeting in Bangkok from October 11 to 12.

"At the 9th RCEP Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok, met with Simon Birmingham, Minister of Trade, Tourism and Investment of Australia. Our discussions centred around preventing market-distorting trade practices and bringing a trade balance between RCEP countries," Goyal tweeted.

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At the 9th RCEP Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok, met with Simon Birmingham, Minister of Trade, Tourism &amp; Investment of Australia. 
 
Our discussions centred around preventing market-distorting trade practices &amp; bringing a trade balance between RCEP countries. <a href="https://t.co/6nPMdzo6RZ">pic.twitter.com/6nPMdzo6RZ</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1182860647412822016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Goyal is also expected to hold many bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Japan, Singapore, China and New Zealand during the Bangkok ministerial meet.

The current RCEP meeting will be the last ministerial meeting before the third Leaders Summit slated to be held on November 4 in Bangkok. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the summit.

RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement between with six partners namely People's Republic of China (ACFTA), Republic of Korea (AKFTA), Japan (AJCEP), India (AIFTA) and Australia and New Zealand (AANZFTA).

The RCEP negotiations were launched by leaders from 10 ASEAN member states (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) and 6 ASEAN FTA partners (Australia, People`s Republic of China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea and New Zealand).

The ministerial guidance will be sought on these issues during the upcoming Bangkok ministerial meeting. The ministers of participating countries will also be discussing preparations for the third Leaders Summit.

In preparation for the crucial Bangkok Ministerial round this month, the Union Minister held several consultations with the Indian industry for firming up India`s position and for taking into consideration industry concerns and sensitivities, the statement said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal met Australian Trade Minister Simon Birmingham and held discussions over various trade issues including ways to prevent market-distorting trade practices.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal met Australian Trade Minister Simon Birmingham and held discussions over various trade issues including ways to prevent market-distorting trade practices. The ministers met on Friday in Bangkok on the sidelines of ninth Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Intersessional Ministerial meeting in Bangkok from October 11 to 12. "At the 9th RCEP Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok, met with Simon Birmingham, Minister of Trade, Tourism and Investment of Australia. Our discussions centred around preventing market-distorting trade practices and bringing a trade balance between RCEP countries," Goyal tweeted. At the 9th RCEP Ministerial Meeting in Bangkok, met with Simon Birmingham, Minister of Trade, Tourism & Investment of Australia. Our discussions centred around preventing market-distorting trade practices & bringing a trade balance between RCEP countries. pic.twitter.com/6nPMdzo6RZ — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) October 12, 2019 × Goyal is also expected to hold many bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Japan, Singapore, China and New Zealand during the Bangkok ministerial meet. The current RCEP meeting will be the last ministerial meeting before the third Leaders Summit slated to be held on November 4 in Bangkok. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the summit. RCEP is a proposed free trade agreement between with six partners namely People's Republic of China (ACFTA), Republic of Korea (AKFTA), Japan (AJCEP), India (AIFTA) and Australia and New Zealand (AANZFTA). The RCEP negotiations were launched by leaders from 10 ASEAN member states (Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) and 6 ASEAN FTA partners (Australia, People`s Republic of China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea and New Zealand). The ministerial guidance will be sought on these issues during the upcoming Bangkok ministerial meeting. The ministers of participating countries will also be discussing preparations for the third Leaders Summit. In preparation for the crucial Bangkok Ministerial round this month, the Union Minister held several consultations with the Indian industry for firming up India`s position and for taking into consideration industry concerns and sensitivities, the statement said.

RCEP meet: Piyush Goyal meets Australian counterpart, holds discussions on trade issues

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the inaugural run of Vande Bharat Express (Train 18) between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shun-single-use-plastic-carry-own-bags-to-market-says-amit-shah-253235/amp">Shah</a> was accompanied by Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Harsh Vardhan, Jitendra Singh, and officials from the Indian Railways at the New Delhi junction for the flagging off event.

Thanking the Indian Railways for the on-time completion of the project, Shah said, "I want to thank the Indian Railways from the core of my heart for giving this gift to Jammu and Kashmir in the auspicious occasion of Navratri. I am proud that this made in India train is being flagged-off from here today. The railways are working towards achieving its targets keeping in mind the principles of speed, scale, and service."

He added that the project will serve as a medium for the development of the region by boosting religious tourism.

"For the development of Jammu and Kashmir religious tourism will play a big part, there cannot be any village in India where people do not want to go to Mata Vaishno Devi temple," he said.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Railways said that the train will start its commercial run between New Delhi and Katra on October 5.

The train will ply throughout the week except for Tuesday.

It will comprise of two Executive AC Chair Car and 12 Chair Car coaches, with stops at Ambala Cantt, Ludhiana, and Jammu Tawi railway stations.

The train journey between New Delhi to Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will cost Rs 1,630 in Chair Car coaches and Rs 3,015 in Executive AC Chair Car coaches. 
&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the inaugural run of Vande Bharat Express (Train 18) between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. Shah was accompanied by Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Harsh Vardhan, Jitendra Singh, and officials from the Indian Railways at the New Delhi junction for the flagging off event.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday flagged off the inaugural run of Vande Bharat Express (Train 18) between New Delhi and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra. Shah was accompanied by Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Harsh Vardhan, Jitendra Singh, and officials from the Indian Railways at the New Delhi junction for the flagging off event. Thanking the Indian Railways for the on-time completion of the project, Shah said, "I want to thank the Indian Railways from the core of my heart for giving this gift to Jammu and Kashmir in the auspicious occasion of Navratri. I am proud that this made in India train is being flagged-off from here today. The railways are working towards achieving its targets keeping in mind the principles of speed, scale, and service." He added that the project will serve as a medium for the development of the region by boosting religious tourism. "For the development of Jammu and Kashmir religious tourism will play a big part, there cannot be any village in India where people do not want to go to Mata Vaishno Devi temple," he said. Earlier on Tuesday, the Railways said that the train will start its commercial run between New Delhi and Katra on October 5. The train will ply throughout the week except for Tuesday. It will comprise of two Executive AC Chair Car and 12 Chair Car coaches, with stops at Ambala Cantt, Ludhiana, and Jammu Tawi railway stations. The train journey between New Delhi to Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra will cost Rs 1,630 in Chair Car coaches and Rs 3,015 in Executive AC Chair Car coaches.

Amit Shah flags off Vande-Bharat Express between New Delhi-Katra

US, India have expressed hope of trade deal very soon, days after it was announced that both sides were in talks to chalk out an agreement. "We are progressing very smoothly" Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said, and added "we sit down in a comfortable and very open-minded way.

US, India have expressed hope of trade deal very soon, days after it was announced that both sides were in talks to chalk out an agreement. "We are progressing very smoothly" Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said, and added "we sit down in a comfortable and very open-minded way...so it more a question of scheduling time but I don't see any big issue holding it back for any reason" US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross on trade said, "neither government said there will be trade deal in five minutes..we both know each other's issues. Now that the election has come and gone, PM Modi has a very clear strong position in the parliament it should be a lot easier to take decisive action" Ross said Washington is only concerned on trade deficit arising from the protectionist barrier. US President has been vocal about trade issues globally including with India, calling New Delhi as "Tariff King" due to high tariff imposed by the country on America goods. Ross is in Delhi to meet Goyal which the former described will be "frank and mature discussions" Asked if New Delhi is being dealt unfairly by Washington, Ross said, "President Trump has gone out of his way to have a good relationship with PM Modi. Whole Howdy Modi event is unprecedented in the entire history of the US. Never has the US sitting President had such a big public event with a foreign leader with any country." Adding, "If there is any doubt, it was a very conscious and overt act to send a clear message to both the Indian American community and to the Indian community. This is a qualitatively different relationship wich previously never existed between India and US and all of our discussions are conducted within that frame of reference" Indian PM Modi and US President Donald Trump met twice last week, first in Houston during the big diaspora event, Howdy, Modi! and then in New York for a bilateral meet with focus on trade and counter-terrorism.

India, US trade talks progressing very smoothly, says Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal

India is among the world's most protectionist countries but the United States is trying to negotiate a limited trade deal with the South Asian nation to resolve their differences, US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said on Thursday.

India is among the world's most protectionist countries but the United States is trying to negotiate a limited trade deal with the South Asian nation to resolve their differences, US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said on Thursday. The United States and India have been locked in trade disputes for months that have led to tit-for-tat tariffs. Washington has been concerned about Indian policies that mandate foreign firms to store more data locally, restrict the way US e-commerce giants operate and impose price caps on medical devices. "All that we are looking for is to level the playing field," Ross said in an interview on the sidelines of the India Economic Summit in New Delhi. "The U.S. is the least protectionist country of the major powers. India is, if not the most protectionist, certainly one of the most protectionist." Citing lack of reciprocal market access, the United States removed India earlier this year from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed duty-free entry for up to $5.6 billion worth of its annual exports to America. New Delhi responded with higher retaliatory tariffs on 28 US products, including almonds, apples and walnuts. Ross said that the United States does not believe India is eligible for the GSP, but the terms were being renegotiated and a resolution would be "a very good step towards free trade". "GSP (reinstatement) could be called a limited trade deal," Ross said. The two countries were expected to resolve their disputes and announce a deal during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to the United States last month. Modi and US President Donald Trump have enjoyed a warm personal rapport - the two leaders walked hand-in-hand at a recent event in Houston - but no trade deal was sealed as negotiators were trying to tie loose ends. A deal between the world's most populous democracies would be a welcome victory for Trump, whose administration has made little headway negotiating an end to its prolonged trade war with China. Ross will hold a one-on-one meeting with his Indian counterpart Piyush Goyal later on Thursday. E-commerce debate The US administration and companies say some of India's regulatory changes in recent years favour domestic firms over foreign ones, and have soured investment plans of American companies. Ross expressed some of the US government's trade concerns, especially in the e-commerce sector, during a panel discussion where he shared the stage with Goyal. In February, India's new investment rules for the e-commerce sector jolted Amazon.com Inc and Walmart's Flipkart as the companies were forced to change their business structures to continue to operate in the country. The rules were aimed at protecting India's brick-and-mortar retailers by deterring big online retailers from giving steep discounts to lure shoppers. Goyal defended India's decision, reiterating the government cannot let "small traders die" and that he had urged e-commerce companies to follow all the rules. Ross said the rules had slowed the expansion of Amazon and Walmart in India, calling it an "unfortunate consequence". He defended the e-commerce companies after Goyal's remarks. "Amazon and the other e-commerce companies didn't get to be the world's biggest by any evil mechanism. They got there because they are extremely efficient," Ross said.

India protectionist, but US negotiating limited trade deal: US Secretary of Commerce 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-the-champion-of-non-violent-activism-253152">Mahatma Gandhi</a> at Raj Ghat on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary.

Modi was received by BJP working President JP Nadda, Union Minister for Commerce Piyush Goyal and Minister of State (MoS) independent charge, Hardeep Singh Puri at Raj Ghat.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also paid floral tributes to Mahatma at his final resting place.

The Prime Minister then left for Vijay Ghat to pay tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his 115th birth anniversary.

Many other dignitaries including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani also reached Rajghat to pay tribute to Gandhi.

Watch: PM Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat

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Both Congress and BJP are organising a number of events throughout the country to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months.

As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will culminate on January 31, 2020.

Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and October 31.

Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary.

Posters, banners and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. PM Modi is scheduled to kick-off the program from Gujarat. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary. Modi was received by BJP working President JP Nadda, Union Minister for Commerce Piyush Goyal and Minister of State (MoS) independent charge, Hardeep Singh Puri at Raj Ghat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary. Modi was received by BJP working President JP Nadda, Union Minister for Commerce Piyush Goyal and Minister of State (MoS) independent charge, Hardeep Singh Puri at Raj Ghat. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also paid floral tributes to Mahatma at his final resting place. The Prime Minister then left for Vijay Ghat to pay tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his 115th birth anniversary. Many other dignitaries including Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and senior BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani also reached Rajghat to pay tribute to Gandhi. Watch: PM Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat × Both Congress and BJP are organising a number of events throughout the country to mark Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has extended its Gandhi Sankalp Yatra by a period of three months. As per the circular sent to the leaders, the Yatra will now be a 120-day exercise and will culminate on January 31, 2020. Earlier, it was scheduled to be held between October 2 and October 31. Under this, the BJP is planning to propagate Gandhi's ideals and principles of non-violence, Swaraj and simplicity to mark his 150th birth anniversary. Posters, banners and kits for the programs to be held during the yatra will be directly sent to the state units from the party headquarters. PM Modi is scheduled to kick-off the program from Gujarat.

PM Narendra Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat

Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said that the largest growth is coming from the Asia-Pacific and the countries of this region also face challenges that are "quite common".

Speaking at the Ninth Asia-Pacific Trade Facilitation Forum (APTFF) organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and Ministry of Commerce, Goyal said,&nbsp;"This region holds 60 per cent of the world's population. The largest growth is coming from this region. We are very large economies and there are also small economies in the region".

"Many of the challenges are quite common. Environment, poverty, etc, are our prime challenges. All the countries in the region are looking together to engage with each other. We have several Sustainable Development Goals set up by the United Nations. We will achieve faster results on some goals like poverty, zero hunger, clean water and sanitation, and affordable and sustainable energy," he added.

Goyal further said that this forum will help those countries which are developing economies.

Speaking on the initiatives taken at the national level, Goyal said, "Jal shakti mission will help masses with clean water.

"Our clean energy programme is the most ambitious program in the world. I am confident that we will achieve our ambitious target of five trillion-dollar economy," he added.

Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said that the largest growth is coming from the Asia-Pacific and the countries of this region also face challenges that are "quite common".

Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said that the largest growth is coming from the Asia-Pacific and the countries of this region also face challenges that are "quite common". Speaking at the Ninth Asia-Pacific Trade Facilitation Forum (APTFF) organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and Ministry of Commerce, Goyal said, "This region holds 60 per cent of the world's population. The largest growth is coming from this region. We are very large economies and there are also small economies in the region". "Many of the challenges are quite common. Environment, poverty, etc, are our prime challenges. All the countries in the region are looking together to engage with each other. We have several Sustainable Development Goals set up by the United Nations. We will achieve faster results on some goals like poverty, zero hunger, clean water and sanitation, and affordable and sustainable energy," he added. Goyal further said that this forum will help those countries which are developing economies. Speaking on the initiatives taken at the national level, Goyal said, "Jal shakti mission will help masses with clean water. "Our clean energy programme is the most ambitious program in the world. I am confident that we will achieve our ambitious target of five trillion-dollar economy," he added.

Largest growth coming from the Asia-Pacific region: Piyush Goyal

India will protect its national interest while signing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Wednesday.

The RCEP is an economic cooperation agreement that is being negotiated by 16 countries including the ten countries of ASEAN.

India has some issues of interest both in trade in goods and trade in service.

"Not every industrial sector is opposed to RCEP Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Pharmaceutical and textiles sector have supported RCEP FTA. We will take care of concerns of certain sectors related to China in RCEP FTA," he told reporters&nbsp;after meeting with trade representatives.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked me to participate in the RCEP talks and also directed me to keep national interest in mind to protect the domestic industry. I can assure you that the Prime Minister has always kept the national interest at the centre of every negotiation," Goyal underlined.

The minister said that the Industrial Policy is close to finalisation and the Foreign Trade Policy is still being discussed with the stakeholders.

"We will certainly balance those industries which feel there could be an unfair advantage to Chinese companies and ensure that all agreements are a win-win for India," said Goyal while urging Indian industries to take the benefits of FDI.

"We can also use the FDIs extensively well for which the government is looking at measures we need to do domestically so that our Indian industry can be competitive," he said.

Goyal informed that the National Logistics Policy 2019 and Multimodal Transportation of Goods Bill 2019 are finalised and will be sent to the Cabinet soon for its approval in order to reduce logistics cost for domestic industry.

The minister said that the India-ASEAN FTA, which was signed in 2009, will be reviewed in order to give a thrust in economic ties.

"It has been decided after the 1st ASEAN Economic Ministers'&nbsp;meeting in Bangkok that India-ASEAN FTA will be reviewed. We have also requested Japan and South Korea to review FTAs with India," Goyal said.

An invitation has been extended to the RCEP FTA nations to New Delhi for a dialogue on September 14 and 15 on the proposed trade deal, the minister remarked.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India will protect its national interest while signing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Wednesday.

India will protect its national interest while signing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Wednesday. The RCEP is an economic cooperation agreement that is being negotiated by 16 countries including the ten countries of ASEAN. India has some issues of interest both in trade in goods and trade in service. "Not every industrial sector is opposed to RCEP Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Pharmaceutical and textiles sector have supported RCEP FTA. We will take care of concerns of certain sectors related to China in RCEP FTA," he told reporters after meeting with trade representatives. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked me to participate in the RCEP talks and also directed me to keep national interest in mind to protect the domestic industry. I can assure you that the Prime Minister has always kept the national interest at the centre of every negotiation," Goyal underlined. The minister said that the Industrial Policy is close to finalisation and the Foreign Trade Policy is still being discussed with the stakeholders. "We will certainly balance those industries which feel there could be an unfair advantage to Chinese companies and ensure that all agreements are a win-win for India," said Goyal while urging Indian industries to take the benefits of FDI. "We can also use the FDIs extensively well for which the government is looking at measures we need to do domestically so that our Indian industry can be competitive," he said. Goyal informed that the National Logistics Policy 2019 and Multimodal Transportation of Goods Bill 2019 are finalised and will be sent to the Cabinet soon for its approval in order to reduce logistics cost for domestic industry. The minister said that the India-ASEAN FTA, which was signed in 2009, will be reviewed in order to give a thrust in economic ties. "It has been decided after the 1st ASEAN Economic Ministers' meeting in Bangkok that India-ASEAN FTA will be reviewed. We have also requested Japan and South Korea to review FTAs with India," Goyal said. An invitation has been extended to the RCEP FTA nations to New Delhi for a dialogue on September 14 and 15 on the proposed trade deal, the minister remarked.

India will sign RCEP deal keeping national interest in mind: Piyush Goyal

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal said on Thursday that the ongoing trade disputes between the United States and China offer a window of opportunity for Indian manufacturers to make a mark in export markets.

"We have a trade surplus of 17 billion dollars with the United States and a trade deficit of 53 billion dollars with China. India needs to work on its strengths by exploring market access for agriculture and pharma products in different regions," he said while addressing the second meeting of the Board of Trade.

Goyal said there has not been much growth in exports this year and this is not satisfactory. There is a need for transforming each district of India into an export hub, he said while urging policymakers from states to identify and take adequate measures.

Total exports out of India crossed the half-trillion-dollar mark at 537 billion dollars in 2018-19 with goods exports at an all-time high of 331 billion dollars and services exports at 205 billion dollars.

"India will have to achieve one trillion dollars of exports in the next five years. For this, we need to increase domestic production and improve our competitiveness," said Goyal.

Simultaneously, both the Centre and the state governments will have to take measures for further improving ease of doing business, decrease logistics cost and simplify regulatory procedures, he said.

The government will soon come up with a credit scheme for exporters with enhanced insurance cover up to 90 per cent instead of the present 60 per cent, said the minister.

Goyal said the proposed merger of 10 public sector banks (PSBs) will enable them to disburse enhanced credit, increase their risk appetite and raise resources from the market.

He said about Rs 70,000 crore will be released to PSBs upfront and additional lending and liquidity to the tune of Rs 5 lakh crore that will benefit corporate, retail borrowers, MSMEs, small traders, and exporters.

Goyal was accompanied by junior ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Som Parkash at the meeting in which the Board of Trade and the Council for Trade Development and Promotion were merged.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal said on Thursday that the ongoing trade disputes between the United States and China offer a window of opportunity for Indian manufacturers to make a mark in export markets.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal said on Thursday that the ongoing trade disputes between the United States and China offer a window of opportunity for Indian manufacturers to make a mark in export markets. "We have a trade surplus of 17 billion dollars with the United States and a trade deficit of 53 billion dollars with China. India needs to work on its strengths by exploring market access for agriculture and pharma products in different regions," he said while addressing the second meeting of the Board of Trade. Goyal said there has not been much growth in exports this year and this is not satisfactory. There is a need for transforming each district of India into an export hub, he said while urging policymakers from states to identify and take adequate measures. Total exports out of India crossed the half-trillion-dollar mark at 537 billion dollars in 2018-19 with goods exports at an all-time high of 331 billion dollars and services exports at 205 billion dollars. "India will have to achieve one trillion dollars of exports in the next five years. For this, we need to increase domestic production and improve our competitiveness," said Goyal. Simultaneously, both the Centre and the state governments will have to take measures for further improving ease of doing business, decrease logistics cost and simplify regulatory procedures, he said. The government will soon come up with a credit scheme for exporters with enhanced insurance cover up to 90 per cent instead of the present 60 per cent, said the minister. Goyal said the proposed merger of 10 public sector banks (PSBs) will enable them to disburse enhanced credit, increase their risk appetite and raise resources from the market. He said about Rs 70,000 crore will be released to PSBs upfront and additional lending and liquidity to the tune of Rs 5 lakh crore that will benefit corporate, retail borrowers, MSMEs, small traders, and exporters. Goyal was accompanied by junior ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Som Parkash at the meeting in which the Board of Trade and the Council for Trade Development and Promotion were merged.

US-China trade war offers opportunity for Indian manufacturers in export markets: Piyush Goyal

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has hailed the Cabinet decision to liberalise sourcing norms for single-brand retail.

"The big companies of single-brand retail have put up small factories in India. They are not able to get economies of scale. They cannot get contract manufacturing done from third parties. Their domestic sourcing too remains limited," he said.

India has integrated itself to the laws prevailing at an international level. The new norms will give India a certain place in the global value chain, he said.

"Going forward, this holistic and comprehensive approach will encourage exports, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) will come in bigger numbers, and big manufacturing opportunities which is the need of the hour will come," said Goyal on Wednesday.

The new norms will give a boost to the Make in India initiative. "For that, this is an important decision," he said.

The Union Cabinet liberalised sourcing norms for single-brand retail and allowed 26 per cent FDI in the digital media. It also decided that single-brand retail trading entities can do retail online trade prior to the opening of brick-and-mortar stores.

Goyal had said the decisions have been taken to make the country an attractive destination for FDI. Referring to the decision to ease local sourcing norms for FDI in Single Brand Retail Trading (SBRT), he said that it had been announced in the Union Budget.

"This will lead to greater flexibility and ease of operations for SBRT entities besides creating a level-playing field for companies with higher exports in a base year," he had said.

The minister said that extant FDI Policy provides that 30 per cent of the value of goods has to be procured from India if SBRT entity has FDI more than 51 per cent. As regards local sourcing requirement, the same can be met as an average during the first five years and thereafter annually towards its India operations.

"It has been decided that all procurements made from India by the SBRT entity for that single brand shall be counted towards local sourcing, irrespective of whether the goods procured are sold in India or exported. The current cap of considering exports for five years only is proposed to be removed, to give an impetus to exports."

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has hailed the Cabinet decision to liberalise sourcing norms for single-brand retail. "The big companies of single-brand retail have put up small factories in India.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has hailed the Cabinet decision to liberalise sourcing norms for single-brand retail. "The big companies of single-brand retail have put up small factories in India. They are not able to get economies of scale. They cannot get contract manufacturing done from third parties. Their domestic sourcing too remains limited," he said. India has integrated itself to the laws prevailing at an international level. The new norms will give India a certain place in the global value chain, he said. "Going forward, this holistic and comprehensive approach will encourage exports, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) will come in bigger numbers, and big manufacturing opportunities which is the need of the hour will come," said Goyal on Wednesday. The new norms will give a boost to the Make in India initiative. "For that, this is an important decision," he said. The Union Cabinet liberalised sourcing norms for single-brand retail and allowed 26 per cent FDI in the digital media. It also decided that single-brand retail trading entities can do retail online trade prior to the opening of brick-and-mortar stores. Goyal had said the decisions have been taken to make the country an attractive destination for FDI. Referring to the decision to ease local sourcing norms for FDI in Single Brand Retail Trading (SBRT), he said that it had been announced in the Union Budget. "This will lead to greater flexibility and ease of operations for SBRT entities besides creating a level-playing field for companies with higher exports in a base year," he had said. The minister said that extant FDI Policy provides that 30 per cent of the value of goods has to be procured from India if SBRT entity has FDI more than 51 per cent. As regards local sourcing requirement, the same can be met as an average during the first five years and thereafter annually towards its India operations. "It has been decided that all procurements made from India by the SBRT entity for that single brand shall be counted towards local sourcing, irrespective of whether the goods procured are sold in India or exported. The current cap of considering exports for five years only is proposed to be removed, to give an impetus to exports."

India integrated itself to laws prevailing at international level, new norms to give certain place in global value chain: Piyush Goyal

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday met Deputy Prime Minister of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../russia-supported-india-on-jk-said-indias- decision-is-constitutional-241933"> Russia </a>Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with President Vladimir Putin next month.

"Met Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation in Russia's Far East Region, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji's&nbsp;meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin next month," Goyal said in a tweet.

Goyal also met Russia's Far East Minister Alexander Kozlov and the Governor of Primorye Oleg Kozhemyako to discuss investment, economic opportunities and trade.

"Attended the reception ceremony hosted by Russia's Far East Minister Mr Alexander Kozlov and the Governor of Primorye Mr Oleg Kozhemyako today. We discussed about investment in the Far East region leading to greater economic opportunities and trade between the two countries," he said in another tweet.

The Union Minister is leading a delegation of Chief Ministers - including Chief Ministers of Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh - an official from Assam and some business representatives to Vladivostok in Russian Far East from August 11 to August 13.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday met Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation between the two countries.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday met Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation between the two countries. The meeting comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with President Vladimir Putin next month. "Met Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Yury Trutnev to discuss potential areas of cooperation in Russia's Far East Region, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin next month," Goyal said in a tweet. Goyal also met Russia's Far East Minister Alexander Kozlov and the Governor of Primorye Oleg Kozhemyako to discuss investment, economic opportunities and trade. "Attended the reception ceremony hosted by Russia's Far East Minister Mr Alexander Kozlov and the Governor of Primorye Mr Oleg Kozhemyako today. We discussed about investment in the Far East region leading to greater economic opportunities and trade between the two countries," he said in another tweet. The Union Minister is leading a delegation of Chief Ministers - including Chief Ministers of Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh - an official from Assam and some business representatives to Vladivostok in Russian Far East from August 11 to August 13.

India's industry minister Piyush Goyal meets Russian Deputy PM to discuss areas of cooperation

Indian Railways is planning to lay off at least 3 lakh employees who are above 55, according to a ministry letter.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/railways-needs-investment-of-rs-50-lakh-crore-by-2030-to-make-it-worlds-best-piyush-goyal-233681">Railway ministry has</a> written to all zonal heads including&nbsp;zonal managers to prepare a list of employees who are above 55 years. An order for performance review has also been put forth.

Not only this, according to the ministry's order, it has asked the heads to prepare a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-railways-minister-piyush-goyal-says-no-privatisation-of-railways-targets-congress-235451">list of employees </a>who are completing 30 years in the Railways till the first quarter of 2020.

Meanwhile, Indian Railways clarified saying that had recruited approximately 1,84,262 employees in various categories during the&nbsp;2014-19 period.

Recruitment exercise for 2,83,637 posts is underway, out of which tests have already been conducted for 1,41,060 posts and the process shall be completed within the next two months, it added.

Recently, the railway ministry which is headed by Piyush Goyal had said that it is studying profiles of corrupt officials to see if some action can be taken against them. However, the minister had ruled out privatisation of the national railway declaring there was "no question and no meaning".

UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had earlier opposed corporatisation of the modern coach factory in Rae Bareli and said it was the first step towards privatisation. 
&nbsp; 
Goyal had claimed that the NDA government had completed 1,900 kilometres of track-linking in the last five years. The Railway minister had said track kilometre grew slowly in 64 years, while in the past five years it grew by 7,000 kilometres.

As part of modernisation plan, the Railway minister had said before the general elections that the all-mountain&nbsp;Railways in India will now have vista dome coaches, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic beauty of hilly terrains.

The latest addition of vista dome or glass-enclosed coaches has been made to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

Indian Railways is planning to lay off at least 3 lakh employees who are above 55, according to a ministry letter. The Railway ministry has written to all zonal heads including zonal managers to prepare a list of employees who are above 55 years.

Indian Railways is planning to lay off at least 3 lakh employees who are above 55, according to a ministry letter. The Railway ministry has written to all zonal heads including zonal managers to prepare a list of employees who are above 55 years. An order for performance review has also been put forth. Not only this, according to the ministry's order, it has asked the heads to prepare a list of employees who are completing 30 years in the Railways till the first quarter of 2020. Meanwhile, Indian Railways clarified saying that had recruited approximately 1,84,262 employees in various categories during the 2014-19 period. Recruitment exercise for 2,83,637 posts is underway, out of which tests have already been conducted for 1,41,060 posts and the process shall be completed within the next two months, it added. Recently, the railway ministry which is headed by Piyush Goyal had said that it is studying profiles of corrupt officials to see if some action can be taken against them. However, the minister had ruled out privatisation of the national railway declaring there was "no question and no meaning". UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi had earlier opposed corporatisation of the modern coach factory in Rae Bareli and said it was the first step towards privatisation. Goyal had claimed that the NDA government had completed 1,900 kilometres of track-linking in the last five years. The Railway minister had said track kilometre grew slowly in 64 years, while in the past five years it grew by 7,000 kilometres. As part of modernisation plan, the Railway minister had said before the general elections that the all-mountain Railways in India will now have vista dome coaches, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic beauty of hilly terrains. The latest addition of vista dome or glass-enclosed coaches has been made to the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

Indian Railways may lay off at least 3 lakh employees

Union Minister Piyush Goyal has voiced his confidence by saying that India will be a US$5 trillion economy by 2025 and the Centre is well poised towards achieving the target.

"I am very confident that by 2025 we will be a US$5 trillion economy. We are well poised towards achieving that, focused on different aspects of the economy which will take us there," the Union Minister said on Monday at UK-India Joint Economic and Trade Committee meeting in London.

He added, "We have opened up opportunities for single-brand retail and are easing some detrimental clauses of our policy in next few weeks which will help single brand retail come in a bigger way to our country."

Commerce and Industry and Railways Minister Goyal further said that the Centre has restrictions on multi-brand retail and have requested companies around the world to respect Indian sensitivities on restrictions of foreign investment and multi-brand retail.

"Particularly e-commerce companies coming to India would have to ensure that they stay within the letter and spirit of the law when it comes to multi-brand retail and our policies around that," he said.

Goyal is on a three-day visit to the UK to attend the India Day conclave.&nbsp;

Union Minister Piyush Goyal has voiced his confidence by saying that India will be a US$5 trillion economy by 2025 and the Centre is well poised towards achieving the target.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal has voiced his confidence by saying that India will be a US$5 trillion economy by 2025 and the Centre is well poised towards achieving the target. "I am very confident that by 2025 we will be a US$5 trillion economy. We are well poised towards achieving that, focused on different aspects of the economy which will take us there," the Union Minister said on Monday at UK-India Joint Economic and Trade Committee meeting in London. He added, "We have opened up opportunities for single-brand retail and are easing some detrimental clauses of our policy in next few weeks which will help single brand retail come in a bigger way to our country." Commerce and Industry and Railways Minister Goyal further said that the Centre has restrictions on multi-brand retail and have requested companies around the world to respect Indian sensitivities on restrictions of foreign investment and multi-brand retail. "Particularly e-commerce companies coming to India would have to ensure that they stay within the letter and spirit of the law when it comes to multi-brand retail and our policies around that," he said. Goyal is on a three-day visit to the UK to attend the India Day conclave.

India will be $5 trillion economy by 2025: Piyush Goyal

In a bid to send the right message to people against corruption, the Railway Ministry is studying profiles of corrupt officials to see if some action can be taken against them.

"With the action being taken against some officers who have integrity issues, the right message is going to the people. Even in Railways, we are now studying profiles of many officers to see if some action can be initiated against them to send the right message," said Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal.

Goyal, who is on a three-day visit to the UK, said during an interaction with representatives from the Indian diaspora in Britain, also said that the Narendra Modi government has taken various steps to address the issue of transparency in his ministry. 
 
Earlier on Friday, Goyal ruled out privatisation of Railways.

"There is no question of the privatisation of railways. Railways cannot be privatised. However, if we have to increase the facilities in railways then obviously we need investments for it.&nbsp;We have taken a decision to encourage public-private partnerships and we will also corporatise some units," the minister told the Lok Sabha. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In a bid to send the right message to people against corruption, the Railway Ministry is studying profiles of corrupt officials to see if some action can be taken against them.

In a bid to send the right message to people against corruption, the Railway Ministry is studying profiles of corrupt officials to see if some action can be taken against them. "With the action being taken against some officers who have integrity issues, the right message is going to the people. Even in Railways, we are now studying profiles of many officers to see if some action can be initiated against them to send the right message," said Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal. Goyal, who is on a three-day visit to the UK, said during an interaction with representatives from the Indian diaspora in Britain, also said that the Narendra Modi government has taken various steps to address the issue of transparency in his ministry. Earlier on Friday, Goyal ruled out privatisation of Railways. "There is no question of the privatisation of railways. Railways cannot be privatised. However, if we have to increase the facilities in railways then obviously we need investments for it. We have taken a decision to encourage public-private partnerships and we will also corporatise some units," the minister told the Lok Sabha. (With inputs from agencies)

Railway ministry studying profiles of officials under anti-corruption drive: Piyush Goyal

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/railways-needs-investment-of-rs-50-lakh-crore-by-2030-to-make-it-worlds-best-piyush-goyal-233681&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi49du-lrHjAhVMpY8KHRJPC_cQFjAGegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2PRa79er7RsPwzDDwByBm6">Railway</a> Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said there is "no question and no meaning" of privatising Railways, but the public-private partnership will be encouraged and there will be corporatisation of some units.

Replying to the debate on the demands for grants of his ministry, in which 99 members participated, Goyal outlined the plans of the government to boost safety and technology and said its performance has been far better compared to that of the UPA government.&nbsp;

He made a veiled attack on UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi over her opposition to the corporatisation of the Modern Coach Factory in Rae Bareli and credited <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-asks-mps-to-take-150-kilometres-march-on-gandhi-jayanti-234213&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjihtD0lrHjAhULUI8KHbPYDVk4ChAWMAN6BAgOEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw2mq2heMNuhNTqHeRsM11JO">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> for its turnaround.

The Minister also accused the UPA government of "inaction" following the July 2006 train blasts and said if the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in power, terrorists would have gotten a befitting reply.

The House passed the demands for grants for railways (2019-20) after cut motions of the opposition were rejected by a voice vote.

Amid desk thumping by MPs of the treasury benches, Goyal said demands raised by members had been compiled overnight over 74 pages and he will individually write to the members.

He said capital expenditure of Railways had increased 2.5 times during the Modi government, adding that the current government had done away with the practice of a separate railway budget as they were mostly "political budgets.

"Slamming the UPA government, Goyal said the work for Dedicated Freight Corridor started in 2007, but not one kilometre of track linking had been done till 2014.&nbsp;

The NDA government completed 1900 kilometres of track linking in five years, he claimed.

The Railway Minister said track kilometre grew slowly in 64 years, while in the past five years it grew by 7,000 kilometres.&nbsp;

He also said railway stations were cleaner and train punctuality improved, as had the safety record of trains.

Goyal accused the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leaders-stage-protest-over-political-crisis-in-karnataka-and-goa-sonia-gandhi-meets-party-mps-234887&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjtr9OMl7HjAhXJL48KHeTlC90QFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2f5YP5GuPo2VEaiA-DDPZt">Congress party</a> of shedding "crocodile tears" over the corporatisation of some units, saying the Modi government was carrying forward a process that had been initiated earlier.&nbsp;

"Sometimes it is said we are going to privatise the railways.&nbsp;

We have spoken loudly so many times that nobody can privatise railways.

There is no meaning, no question of privatising railways," he said.

He said allegations about privatisation had been replied earlier and repeating them will not change the truth.&nbsp;

"The truth is that if you want to increase the facilities of railways, spread them to all parts of the country, we need big investments," he said.

Goyal said passengers want a comfortable journey and the capacity of railways to carry goods should increase.

"The government has decided that in the future it will encourage more public-private partnerships.&nbsp;

To increase route length, to bring foreign investment, we will corporatise some units.&nbsp;

You started it, we will complete the work you left half-finished. Why are you shedding crocodile tears that there is corporatisation?&nbsp;

We have been elected to complete the tasks you did not do," he said.

He said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has proposed an investment of Rs 50 lakh crore in railways and related areas in the next ten-twelve years and has laid a roadmap of how the railways will move forward.&nbsp;

Her budget speech, he said, reflected the "new thinking and new direction" in which the government will work.

He said not a single coach was produced at coach factory in Rae Bareli, the constituency of Sonia Gandhi, during the rule of Congress-led government.&nbsp;

The coach factory produced 1425 coaches in 2018-19 against its capacity of 1,000 due to Modi`s directions and the target was to make it the biggest coach factory in the world which produced 5,000 coaches annually, he added.

Sonia Gandhi had earlier this month opposed corporatisation of Modern Coach Factory and said it was the first step towards privatisation.

Replying to queries, he said some projects in West Bengal were pending for years as the land had not been made available by the state government.&nbsp;

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said there is "no question and no meaning" of privatising Railways, but the public-private partnership will be encouraged and there will be corporatisation of some units.

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said there is "no question and no meaning" of privatising Railways, but the public-private partnership will be encouraged and there will be corporatisation of some units. Replying to the debate on the demands for grants of his ministry, in which 99 members participated, Goyal outlined the plans of the government to boost safety and technology and said its performance has been far better compared to that of the UPA government. He made a veiled attack on UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi over her opposition to the corporatisation of the Modern Coach Factory in Rae Bareli and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for its turnaround. The Minister also accused the UPA government of "inaction" following the July 2006 train blasts and said if the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in power, terrorists would have gotten a befitting reply. The House passed the demands for grants for railways (2019-20) after cut motions of the opposition were rejected by a voice vote. Amid desk thumping by MPs of the treasury benches, Goyal said demands raised by members had been compiled overnight over 74 pages and he will individually write to the members. He said capital expenditure of Railways had increased 2.5 times during the Modi government, adding that the current government had done away with the practice of a separate railway budget as they were mostly "political budgets. "Slamming the UPA government, Goyal said the work for Dedicated Freight Corridor started in 2007, but not one kilometre of track linking had been done till 2014. The NDA government completed 1900 kilometres of track linking in five years, he claimed. The Railway Minister said track kilometre grew slowly in 64 years, while in the past five years it grew by 7,000 kilometres. He also said railway stations were cleaner and train punctuality improved, as had the safety record of trains. Goyal accused the Congress party of shedding "crocodile tears" over the corporatisation of some units, saying the Modi government was carrying forward a process that had been initiated earlier. "Sometimes it is said we are going to privatise the railways. We have spoken loudly so many times that nobody can privatise railways. There is no meaning, no question of privatising railways," he said. He said allegations about privatisation had been replied earlier and repeating them will not change the truth. "The truth is that if you want to increase the facilities of railways, spread them to all parts of the country, we need big investments," he said. Goyal said passengers want a comfortable journey and the capacity of railways to carry goods should increase. "The government has decided that in the future it will encourage more public-private partnerships. To increase route length, to bring foreign investment, we will corporatise some units. You started it, we will complete the work you left half-finished. Why are you shedding crocodile tears that there is corporatisation? We have been elected to complete the tasks you did not do," he said. He said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has proposed an investment of Rs 50 lakh crore in railways and related areas in the next ten-twelve years and has laid a roadmap of how the railways will move forward. Her budget speech, he said, reflected the "new thinking and new direction" in which the government will work. He said not a single coach was produced at coach factory in Rae Bareli, the constituency of Sonia Gandhi, during the rule of Congress-led government. The coach factory produced 1425 coaches in 2018-19 against its capacity of 1,000 due to Modi`s directions and the target was to make it the biggest coach factory in the world which produced 5,000 coaches annually, he added. Sonia Gandhi had earlier this month opposed corporatisation of Modern Coach Factory and said it was the first step towards privatisation. Replying to queries, he said some projects in West Bengal were pending for years as the land had not been made available by the state government.

Railways Minister Piyush Goyal says no privatisation of Railways, targets Congress

U.S trade representatives were in New Delhi for talks. United States is India's largest trading partner. U.S ended India' preferential status then India retaliated. India slapped tariffs on U.S almonds and 27 other U.S products. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will visit U.S soon. Watch this video to know more.

Sources: No breakthrough in India-U.S trade talks

US and Indian trade negotiators ended talks on Friday without making major progress on a range of disputes over tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by both sides that are straining bilateral ties, according to officials with knowledge of the discussions.

Many of the toughest questions on agricultural commodities, e-commerce, and steel and aluminium, have been put off until Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal goes to Washington for talks with United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer next month. The dates for that trip are yet to be settled.

"No breakthrough," said one of the senior Indian officials involved in the talks in New Delhi that went on for a little over three hours. He declined to make any further comment.

Two other Indian officials said they hoped that some of the issues will be resolved when Goyal goes to Washington.

Friday's talks were more about understanding each other's positions in various disputes, they said.

There was no official statement issued by either country by early Friday evening.

The two sides resumed talks after US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in June where they agreed to seek to deepen the two countries' relationship.

Trump said at that summit that there would be a "very big trade deal" with India, though he set no timeline, and has only this week used Twitter to attack what he says are high Indian tariffs on American goods as "unacceptable".

Tit-for-tat moves&nbsp;

The US sought the rollback of Indian tariffs imposed on some agricultural products, such as almonds, when the two sides met on Friday, said one of the Indian government sources.

Those tariffs were imposed by the Indian government in response to the Trump administration's decision to remove trade privileges from Indian products under the Generalized System of Preferences. India has asked for those privileges, effectively zero tariffs on a range of Indian products entering the United States, to be reinstated.

India did not commit to any changes to foreign investment rules for foreign e-commerce firms such as Walmart's Flipkart and Amazon, one of the Indian sources said. The rules have forced the two American companies to rework their business strategies for India.

Walmart told the US government privately in January that India's new investment rules for e-commerce were regressive and had the potential to hurt trade ties, Reuters reported on Thursday.

One concern now among Indian policymakers is that the Trump administration may push for a free trade agreement with India that could dent India's competitiveness, lead to a flurry of imports and hurt Modi's "Make in India" plan.

In a recent meeting, Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told trade ministry officials that "Trump is clearly preparing for a larger game, a larger opening," according to one of the officials aware of the discussions.

US and Indian trade negotiators ended talks on Friday without making major progress on a range of disputes over tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by both sides that are straining bilateral ties, according to officials with knowledge of the discussions.

US and Indian trade negotiators ended talks on Friday without making major progress on a range of disputes over tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by both sides that are straining bilateral ties, according to officials with knowledge of the discussions. Many of the toughest questions on agricultural commodities, e-commerce, and steel and aluminium, have been put off until Indian Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal goes to Washington for talks with United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer next month. The dates for that trip are yet to be settled. "No breakthrough," said one of the senior Indian officials involved in the talks in New Delhi that went on for a little over three hours. He declined to make any further comment. Two other Indian officials said they hoped that some of the issues will be resolved when Goyal goes to Washington. Friday's talks were more about understanding each other's positions in various disputes, they said. There was no official statement issued by either country by early Friday evening. The two sides resumed talks after US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in June where they agreed to seek to deepen the two countries' relationship. Trump said at that summit that there would be a "very big trade deal" with India, though he set no timeline, and has only this week used Twitter to attack what he says are high Indian tariffs on American goods as "unacceptable". Tit-for-tat moves The US sought the rollback of Indian tariffs imposed on some agricultural products, such as almonds, when the two sides met on Friday, said one of the Indian government sources. Those tariffs were imposed by the Indian government in response to the Trump administration's decision to remove trade privileges from Indian products under the Generalized System of Preferences. India has asked for those privileges, effectively zero tariffs on a range of Indian products entering the United States, to be reinstated. India did not commit to any changes to foreign investment rules for foreign e-commerce firms such as Walmart's Flipkart and Amazon, one of the Indian sources said. The rules have forced the two American companies to rework their business strategies for India. Walmart told the US government privately in January that India's new investment rules for e-commerce were regressive and had the potential to hurt trade ties, Reuters reported on Thursday. One concern now among Indian policymakers is that the Trump administration may push for a free trade agreement with India that could dent India's competitiveness, lead to a flurry of imports and hurt Modi's "Make in India" plan. In a recent meeting, Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar told trade ministry officials that "Trump is clearly preparing for a larger game, a larger opening," according to one of the officials aware of the discussions.

India-US trade talks end without major progress: Sources

In a major crackdown against spurious mineral water being sold in trains, more than 800 people were arrested on Wednesday.

As many as 48,860 bottles of spurious mineral water were recovered in an operation which was carried out at over 300 places following the complaints filed by passengers.

"A major crackdown on those who sell spurious mineral water was carried out at over 300 places. More than 800 persons, including manager of 4 pantry cars, were arrested and 48,860 bottles recovered," news agency ANI quoted Railway Minister Piyush Goyal.

Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court asked the Railways on Tuesday to file an affidavit detailing the steps it has taken, and proposes to take, to ensure availability of clean and safe drinking water on its trains as well as stations.

The lawyers, representing the Railways, told the HC that it has set up chlorination plants to treat the water. The Railways also told the court that it, occasionally, sends samples of water collected from its stations to laboratories. 
 
Indian Railways has been taking steps to ensure the safety and convenience of passengers. Passengers on board premier trains like Rajdhani and Duronto are provided with free Rail Neer bottles but passengers on many other trains have to rely on either buying bottles or using drinking water taps at stations.&nbsp;

However, several vendors supply spurious water with stickers of well-known brands pasted on bottles.

 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In a major crackdown against spurious mineral water being sold in trains, more than 800 people were arrested on Wednesday. As many as 48,860 bottles of spurious mineral water were recovered in an operation which was carried out at over 300 places following the complaints filed by passengers.

In a major crackdown against spurious mineral water being sold in trains, more than 800 people were arrested on Wednesday. As many as 48,860 bottles of spurious mineral water were recovered in an operation which was carried out at over 300 places following the complaints filed by passengers. "A major crackdown on those who sell spurious mineral water was carried out at over 300 places. More than 800 persons, including manager of 4 pantry cars, were arrested and 48,860 bottles recovered," news agency ANI quoted Railway Minister Piyush Goyal. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court asked the Railways on Tuesday to file an affidavit detailing the steps it has taken, and proposes to take, to ensure availability of clean and safe drinking water on its trains as well as stations. The lawyers, representing the Railways, told the HC that it has set up chlorination plants to treat the water. The Railways also told the court that it, occasionally, sends samples of water collected from its stations to laboratories. Indian Railways has been taking steps to ensure the safety and convenience of passengers. Passengers on board premier trains like Rajdhani and Duronto are provided with free Rail Neer bottles but passengers on many other trains have to rely on either buying bottles or using drinking water taps at stations. However, several vendors supply spurious water with stickers of well-known brands pasted on bottles. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 800 people arrested in crackdown against spurious water sold in trains

Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said that Indian Railways needs an investment of Rs 50 lakh crore by 2030 to make it the "world's best."

"I have never spoken about the privatisation of Railways. What is said in the Budget is Railways are an important mode of transport. And ever since Railways have reached Goa, we have felt that there is a big change and tourism has increased in a big way. When we speak about the future then till 2030, in 11, 12 years, railways will need an investment of Rs. 50 lakh crore, if we have to make it the world's best railway service," Goyal said here at an event.

"This includes aspects like passenger safety, ensuring a comfortable journey, expansion of railway tracks to accommodate more passengers. We have also set an ambitious target for increasing of freight on the Railways which has now shrunk to 30 per cent and when we have seen that in 65 years, before the advent of the Narendra Modi government, investment had reduced in the Indian Railways, as a result of which infrastructure has increased by only 30 per cent and the passenger and freight traffic has increased by 1500 per cent," he added.

Goyal stated that the estimate is that "passengers and freight will face discomfort and safety will be decreased due to overload."

"In the last five years, we have more than doubled capital investment in the Railways. This year too Rs 1.60 lakh crore capital investment we have planned in the Railways. In 2013-14 it was around Rs 40,000 to Rs. 45,000 crore. Such is the change which Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought in Indian Railways. But when you look ahead, the government will not be able to invest Rs. 50 lakh crore alone. Our efforts are to bring technology of international standards, investment or a Public Private Partnership or a TOT model, which yesterday Nirmala Sitharaman referred to toll operate and transfer. There are different models we can follow. We want the Indian Railways to grow," he said.

Goyal said that Railways by itself will not be privatised.

"Railways belong to the government, it will stay with the government. The big investment (in the Railways sector) belongs to the government and it will be in the service of the public," he said.Meanwhile, on the mining issue, Piyush Goyal stated that the central government is "committed to solving the issue."

"The Chief Minister has had several meetings without leadership in Delhi. He has had several meeting with the Prime Minister on this issue. It is a very difficult issue, which has to be resolved within the framework of the law and yet recognising the special situation in Goa. The legal department in Goa and the law ministry in Delhi are working together to see how we can find a solution, given the fact that the Supreme Court had earlier ordered that all natural resources of the country have to be auctioned."

He added, "This was the order in the wake of the massive Coalgate scam, which the Congress and UPA had indulged in which they had given away large amount of mines to select parties. But Goa has a peculiar situation where mining has been going on for so many years. These are no new mines, so we have to find a solution within the ambit of the law, recognising and respecting the Supreme Court judgement and the unique position of Goa. We stand committed to finding a solution. We will work with the Goa government, but we will also need to respect the law of the land."

On the occasion, Piyush Goyal also remembered former Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and called him a "good friend and a big brother."

"He was a tough party worker and an ideal worker of the party. We worked closely with him. He was a patriot and an uncommon leader. He was never a leader, he was a party worker who became a Chief Minister and reached heights of his political career. This is the speciality of the party. I remember whenever Narendra Modi addressed party workers, he has said that the party and the government's strengths is based on the party workers. It is the biggest party in the world. Workers provide a bridge which connects government to the people," Goyal said.

Piyush Goyal said that BJP does not believe in dynasty politics, but banks on its party workers.&nbsp;

Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said that Indian Railways needs an investment of Rs 50 lakh crore by 2030 to make it the "world's best." "I have never spoken about the privatisation of Railways.

Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday said that Indian Railways needs an investment of Rs 50 lakh crore by 2030 to make it the "world's best." "I have never spoken about the privatisation of Railways. What is said in the Budget is Railways are an important mode of transport. And ever since Railways have reached Goa, we have felt that there is a big change and tourism has increased in a big way. When we speak about the future then till 2030, in 11, 12 years, railways will need an investment of Rs. 50 lakh crore, if we have to make it the world's best railway service," Goyal said here at an event. "This includes aspects like passenger safety, ensuring a comfortable journey, expansion of railway tracks to accommodate more passengers. We have also set an ambitious target for increasing of freight on the Railways which has now shrunk to 30 per cent and when we have seen that in 65 years, before the advent of the Narendra Modi government, investment had reduced in the Indian Railways, as a result of which infrastructure has increased by only 30 per cent and the passenger and freight traffic has increased by 1500 per cent," he added. Goyal stated that the estimate is that "passengers and freight will face discomfort and safety will be decreased due to overload." "In the last five years, we have more than doubled capital investment in the Railways. This year too Rs 1.60 lakh crore capital investment we have planned in the Railways. In 2013-14 it was around Rs 40,000 to Rs. 45,000 crore. Such is the change which Prime Minister Narendra Modi has brought in Indian Railways. But when you look ahead, the government will not be able to invest Rs. 50 lakh crore alone. Our efforts are to bring technology of international standards, investment or a Public Private Partnership or a TOT model, which yesterday Nirmala Sitharaman referred to toll operate and transfer. There are different models we can follow. We want the Indian Railways to grow," he said. Goyal said that Railways by itself will not be privatised. "Railways belong to the government, it will stay with the government. The big investment (in the Railways sector) belongs to the government and it will be in the service of the public," he said.Meanwhile, on the mining issue, Piyush Goyal stated that the central government is "committed to solving the issue." "The Chief Minister has had several meetings without leadership in Delhi. He has had several meeting with the Prime Minister on this issue. It is a very difficult issue, which has to be resolved within the framework of the law and yet recognising the special situation in Goa. The legal department in Goa and the law ministry in Delhi are working together to see how we can find a solution, given the fact that the Supreme Court had earlier ordered that all natural resources of the country have to be auctioned." He added, "This was the order in the wake of the massive Coalgate scam, which the Congress and UPA had indulged in which they had given away large amount of mines to select parties. But Goa has a peculiar situation where mining has been going on for so many years. These are no new mines, so we have to find a solution within the ambit of the law, recognising and respecting the Supreme Court judgement and the unique position of Goa. We stand committed to finding a solution. We will work with the Goa government, but we will also need to respect the law of the land." On the occasion, Piyush Goyal also remembered former Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and called him a "good friend and a big brother." "He was a tough party worker and an ideal worker of the party. We worked closely with him. He was a patriot and an uncommon leader. He was never a leader, he was a party worker who became a Chief Minister and reached heights of his political career. This is the speciality of the party. I remember whenever Narendra Modi addressed party workers, he has said that the party and the government's strengths is based on the party workers. It is the biggest party in the world. Workers provide a bridge which connects government to the people," Goyal said. Piyush Goyal said that BJP does not believe in dynasty politics, but banks on its party workers.

Railways needs investment of Rs 50 lakh crore by 2030 to make it world's best: Piyush Goyal

Railways is conducting extensive trials of Tri-Netra technology but it cannot be introduced till it is found to be perfect in detecting any obstruction on tracks during fog, the Rajya Sabha was informed Friday.

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal told members during the Question Hour that the Tri-Netra system is another attempt by the Railways to develop modern technology.

"This is also under extensive trials. This Tri-netra device is making an attempt during fog through ultrasonic waves where it will be able to detect any obstruction on tracks. It is under testing, but without proper testing, it cannot be implemented, as it does not give us the confidence to implement it," the minister said.

Goyal also informed members that Railways is setting up small Reverse Osmosis (RO) water plants at some stations for provisions of drinking water to people.

"In 2002-03 what was developed was tried extensively but was found to be not successful. Unless extensive trials take place, you cannot introduce unless there are extensive trials and that can cause more damage. That project was aborted. Subsequently, we developed another technology of Fog-past devices for seeing in fog," he told the House.

"The TRI-NETRA (Terrain Imaging for Drivers Infrared, Enhanced, Optical &amp; Radar Assisted) system comprises Infrared Camera, Optical Camera and Radar assisted imaging system to assist Loco pilots to identify obstructions on tracks, especially in foggy conditions. It's testing on all parameters will be done after its procurement and field trials as proof of concept," the minister said in his written reply.

Responding to a query on lack of availability of water on trains, the minister said Railways has gone into the issue and the pressure with which water was loaded on trains was found to be less as the demand of water was much less earlier.

"We have now taken a policy decision that we are changing the system for high-pressure pumping so that water tanks get full and nobody has problems during the journey.

"While we are distributing Rail Neer inside trains, we are also setting up small RO plants at different stations where people can procure water for drinking," he said.&nbsp;

Railways is conducting extensive trials of Tri-Netra technology but it cannot be introduced till it is found to be perfect in detecting any obstruction on tracks during fog, the Rajya Sabha was informed Friday.

Railways is conducting extensive trials of Tri-Netra technology but it cannot be introduced till it is found to be perfect in detecting any obstruction on tracks during fog, the Rajya Sabha was informed Friday. Railway Minister Piyush Goyal told members during the Question Hour that the Tri-Netra system is another attempt by the Railways to develop modern technology. "This is also under extensive trials. This Tri-netra device is making an attempt during fog through ultrasonic waves where it will be able to detect any obstruction on tracks. It is under testing, but without proper testing, it cannot be implemented, as it does not give us the confidence to implement it," the minister said. Goyal also informed members that Railways is setting up small Reverse Osmosis (RO) water plants at some stations for provisions of drinking water to people. "In 2002-03 what was developed was tried extensively but was found to be not successful. Unless extensive trials take place, you cannot introduce unless there are extensive trials and that can cause more damage. That project was aborted. Subsequently, we developed another technology of Fog-past devices for seeing in fog," he told the House. "The TRI-NETRA (Terrain Imaging for Drivers Infrared, Enhanced, Optical & Radar Assisted) system comprises Infrared Camera, Optical Camera and Radar assisted imaging system to assist Loco pilots to identify obstructions on tracks, especially in foggy conditions. It's testing on all parameters will be done after its procurement and field trials as proof of concept," the minister said in his written reply. Responding to a query on lack of availability of water on trains, the minister said Railways has gone into the issue and the pressure with which water was loaded on trains was found to be less as the demand of water was much less earlier. "We have now taken a policy decision that we are changing the system for high-pressure pumping so that water tanks get full and nobody has problems during the journey. "While we are distributing Rail Neer inside trains, we are also setting up small RO plants at different stations where people can procure water for drinking," he said.

Railways conducting trials of Tri-Netra technology to detect obstruction on tracks

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday held a preparatory meeting for the upcoming G20 summit slated to be held in Osaka and Japan on June 28 and 29.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das attended the meeting.

Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Das said,&nbsp;"It was a Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) meeting.

We reviewed the current state of the economy, the overall macro-economic situation and global development.

"The RBI Governor further said that various budget-related suggestions and proposals were also discussed.

"Regulators and concerned secretaries of the government were present during the meeting," said Das.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday held a preparatory meeting for the upcoming G20 summit slated to be held in Osaka and Japan on June 28 and 29. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das attended the meeting.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday held a preparatory meeting for the upcoming G20 summit slated to be held in Osaka and Japan on June 28 and 29. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das attended the meeting. Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Das said, "It was a Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) meeting. We reviewed the current state of the economy, the overall macro-economic situation and global development. "The RBI Governor further said that various budget-related suggestions and proposals were also discussed. "Regulators and concerned secretaries of the government were present during the meeting," said Das.

Nirmala Sitharaman holds preparatory meeting for upcoming G20 summit

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, on Saturday participated in the G20 ministerial meeting on Trade and Digital Economy, held in the Japanese city of Tsukuba.

The meeting focused on the ways to promote trade and cooperation among the G20 countries in order to harness the potential of the digital economy.

Taking to his official Twitter handle after the meeting, Goyal wrote, "Attending the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade &amp; Digital Economy in Japan, graced with presence of Trade &amp; Digital Economy Ministers of member countries. Participated in discussions relating to increasing trade &amp; cooperation to harness the potential of digital economy."

Earlier in the day, the Commerce minister held bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit in order to sensitize India's core interests in trade and investment issues and build a coalition with like-minded countries for defending the interests of developing countries.

In a series of tweets through the day, Goyal informed of holding meetings with US Ambassador to World Trade Organization, Dennis Shea; China's Vice Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen; and Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism, and Investment, Simon Birmingham, among others.

"Met with US Ambassador to World Trade Organization, Dennis Shea and had a forward looking discussion on India-US trade relations and boosting economic cooperation between the two nations," Goyal wrote on Twitter.

Another tweet read, "Met China's Vice-Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen and had a fruitful discussion regarding strengthening mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation between the two countries."

The third tweet read, "Met Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Simon Birmingham and engaged in a dialogue for strengthening economic and trade ties between the two nations @Birmo".

Other than this, Goyal also held bilaterals with Minister of Trade and Industry for Singapore, Chan Chun Sing; Minister of Commerce and Investment for Saudi Arabia, Majid Bin Abdullah Al Qasabi; Minister of Trade and Industry for South Africa, Ebrahim Patel, and Minister for Trade of the Republic of Korea, Yoo Myung-Hee.

The G20 trade ministers'&nbsp;deliberations form part of the G20 summit leaders agenda in the formal discussions and will also be a part of the summit declaration.

Ever since G20 was formed, India has been actively participating in the meetings. Although there are no binding commitments in G20, it sets the agenda for multilateral trade relations.

Over 50 trade and digital economy ministers will discuss how G20 economies can promote trade and investment and maximise benefits from the development of digital technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the global economy.

The Trade and Digital Economy meeting is one of the eight ministerial meetings taking place in Japan alongside the 2019 G20 Summit. The G20 members represent two-thirds of the world's people and 85 per cent of its economy.&nbsp;

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, on Saturday participated in the G20 ministerial meeting on Trade and Digital Economy, held in the Japanese city of Tsukuba.

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, on Saturday participated in the G20 ministerial meeting on Trade and Digital Economy, held in the Japanese city of Tsukuba. The meeting focused on the ways to promote trade and cooperation among the G20 countries in order to harness the potential of the digital economy. Taking to his official Twitter handle after the meeting, Goyal wrote, "Attending the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade & Digital Economy in Japan, graced with presence of Trade & Digital Economy Ministers of member countries. Participated in discussions relating to increasing trade & cooperation to harness the potential of digital economy." Earlier in the day, the Commerce minister held bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit in order to sensitize India's core interests in trade and investment issues and build a coalition with like-minded countries for defending the interests of developing countries. In a series of tweets through the day, Goyal informed of holding meetings with US Ambassador to World Trade Organization, Dennis Shea; China's Vice Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen; and Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism, and Investment, Simon Birmingham, among others. "Met with US Ambassador to World Trade Organization, Dennis Shea and had a forward looking discussion on India-US trade relations and boosting economic cooperation between the two nations," Goyal wrote on Twitter. Another tweet read, "Met China's Vice-Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen and had a fruitful discussion regarding strengthening mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation between the two countries." The third tweet read, "Met Australia's Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Simon Birmingham and engaged in a dialogue for strengthening economic and trade ties between the two nations @Birmo". Other than this, Goyal also held bilaterals with Minister of Trade and Industry for Singapore, Chan Chun Sing; Minister of Commerce and Investment for Saudi Arabia, Majid Bin Abdullah Al Qasabi; Minister of Trade and Industry for South Africa, Ebrahim Patel, and Minister for Trade of the Republic of Korea, Yoo Myung-Hee. The G20 trade ministers' deliberations form part of the G20 summit leaders agenda in the formal discussions and will also be a part of the summit declaration. Ever since G20 was formed, India has been actively participating in the meetings. Although there are no binding commitments in G20, it sets the agenda for multilateral trade relations. Over 50 trade and digital economy ministers will discuss how G20 economies can promote trade and investment and maximise benefits from the development of digital technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the global economy. The Trade and Digital Economy meeting is one of the eight ministerial meetings taking place in Japan alongside the 2019 G20 Summit. The G20 members represent two-thirds of the world's people and 85 per cent of its economy.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal participates in G20 ministerial meeting in Japan

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/piyush-goyal-retains-railways-likely-to-focus-on-safety-non-fare-revenue-223134">Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal</a> will lead the Indian delegation for the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy being held from June 8 to 9 at Tsukuba city along the Ibaraki prefecture in Japan.

He will discuss developments in the global trade situation, WTO matters and digital trade. Goyal will also hold dialogue with other participating trade ministers on current international trade and investments.

For the first time, ministers of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Commerce will participate in a joint session on digital economy, according to a statement issued by the government on Thursday.

The G20 trade ministers deliberations will form part of the G20 summit leaders agenda in the formal discussions and will also be a part of the summit declaration.

Ever since G20 was formed, India has been actively participating in the meetings. Although there are no binding commitments in G20, it sets the agenda for multilateral trade relations.

Over 50 trade and digital economy ministers will discuss how G20 economies can promote trade and investment and maximise benefits from the development of digital technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the global economy.

Digitalisation is expected to continue to create benefits for our economies and societies as a whole and help achieve the inclusive, innovative and human-centred future society 'Society 5.0.'

The Trade and Digital Economy meeting is one of the eight ministerial meetings taking place in Japan alongside the 2019 G20 Summit. The G20 members represent two-thirds of the world's people and 85 per cent of its economy.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal will lead the Indian delegation for the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy being held from June 8 to 9 at Tsukuba city along the Ibaraki prefecture in Japan.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal will lead the Indian delegation for the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy being held from June 8 to 9 at Tsukuba city along the Ibaraki prefecture in Japan. He will discuss developments in the global trade situation, WTO matters and digital trade. Goyal will also hold dialogue with other participating trade ministers on current international trade and investments. For the first time, ministers of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Commerce will participate in a joint session on digital economy, according to a statement issued by the government on Thursday. The G20 trade ministers deliberations will form part of the G20 summit leaders agenda in the formal discussions and will also be a part of the summit declaration. Ever since G20 was formed, India has been actively participating in the meetings. Although there are no binding commitments in G20, it sets the agenda for multilateral trade relations. Over 50 trade and digital economy ministers will discuss how G20 economies can promote trade and investment and maximise benefits from the development of digital technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the global economy. Digitalisation is expected to continue to create benefits for our economies and societies as a whole and help achieve the inclusive, innovative and human-centred future society 'Society 5.0.' The Trade and Digital Economy meeting is one of the eight ministerial meetings taking place in Japan alongside the 2019 G20 Summit. The G20 members represent two-thirds of the world's people and 85 per cent of its economy.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal to lead Indian delegation for G20 ministerial meet in Japan

Today Top ministers of BJP Govt. meet Amit Shah. S. Jaishankar, Piyush Goyal, Sitharaman meet Amit Shah today. Dharmendra Pradhan was also present. This was the meeting to review the internal security. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Know What's on Amit Shah's Agenda

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