<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday shared yet another video featuring peacocks -- an assortment of shots where he is feeding the birds at his residence during his morning routine of exercises -- on his Instagram.</p>

<p>The post has an accompanying video that has a few glimpses from his daily walk from his home to office in the 7, Lok Kalyan Marg (LKM) complex -- topped with&nbsp;soothing music.</p>

<p>The caption is built by a few Hindi lines dedicated to the fauna of the LKM complex.</p>

<p>At his residence, the prime minister has also placed Chabootras -- tower like structures found in rural India where birds can make their nests.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CEONMDnpjAo/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">भोर भयो, बिन शोर, मन मोर, भयो विभोर, रग-रग है रंगा, नीला भूरा श्याम सुहाना, मनमोहक, मोर निराला। रंग है, पर राग नहीं, विराग का विश्वास यही, न चाह, न वाह, न आह, गूँजे घर-घर आज भी गान, जिये तो मुरली के साथ जाये तो मुरलीधर के ताज। जीवात्मा ही शिवात्मा, अंतर्मन की अनंत धारा मन मंदिर में उजियारा सारा, बिन वाद-विवाद, संवाद बिन सुर-स्वर, संदेश मोर चहकता मौन महकता।</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/narendramodi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Narendra Modi</a> (@narendramodi) on <time datetime="2020-08-23T06:37:37+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Aug 22, 2020 at 11:37pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>The peacocks are often a regular companion during the prime minister's routine of exercises. Before leaving for a visit to Gujarat and Maharashtra on January 17, 2020, PM Modi put up an Instagram story of peacocks at his official residence. “Will see these friends at 7 LKM (Lok Kalyan Marg) after three days," he wrote in the accompanying message.</p>

<p>Also, Instagram stories from PM Modi's handle on January 21 placed him in the “Lush green lawns” and corridors of “7, LKM” on a “Rainy Winter Day”.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday shared yet another video featuring peacocks -- an assortment of shots where he is feeding the birds at his residence during his morning routine of exercises -- on his Instagram.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday shared yet another video featuring peacocks -- an assortment of shots where he is feeding the birds at his residence during his morning routine of exercises -- on his Instagram. The post has an accompanying video that has a few glimpses from his daily walk from his home to office in the 7, Lok Kalyan Marg (LKM) complex -- topped with soothing music. The caption is built by a few Hindi lines dedicated to the fauna of the LKM complex. At his residence, the prime minister has also placed Chabootras -- tower like structures found in rural India where birds can make their nests. View this post on Instagram भोर भयो, बिन शोर, मन मोर, भयो विभोर, रग-रग है रंगा, नीला भूरा श्याम सुहाना, मनमोहक, मोर निराला। रंग है, पर राग नहीं, विराग का विश्वास यही, न चाह, न वाह, न आह, गूँजे घर-घर आज भी गान, जिये तो मुरली के साथ जाये तो मुरलीधर के ताज। जीवात्मा ही शिवात्मा, अंतर्मन की अनंत धारा मन मंदिर में उजियारा सारा, बिन वाद-विवाद, संवाद बिन सुर-स्वर, संदेश मोर चहकता मौन महकता। A post shared by Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) on Aug 22, 2020 at 11:37pm PDT × The peacocks are often a regular companion during the prime minister's routine of exercises. Before leaving for a visit to Gujarat and Maharashtra on January 17, 2020, PM Modi put up an Instagram story of peacocks at his official residence. “Will see these friends at 7 LKM (Lok Kalyan Marg) after three days," he wrote in the accompanying message. Also, Instagram stories from PM Modi's handle on January 21 placed him in the “Lush green lawns” and corridors of “7, LKM” on a “Rainy Winter Day”.

Of poetry and friendship: PM Modi posts another video featuring peacocks

<p>The National Recruitment Agency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday stressing that through the Common Eligibility Test it will eliminate multiple tests and save precious time as well as resources.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/welcome-supreme-courts-decision-to-order-cbi-probe-in-sushants-case-says-bihar-deputy-cm-321630" hreflang="en">Welcome Supreme Court's decision to order CBI probe in Sushant's case, says Bihar Deputy CM</a></p>

<p>"The #NationalRecruitmentAgency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters. Through the Common Eligibility Test, it will eliminate multiple tests and save precious time as well as resources. This will also be a big boost to transparency," the Prime Minister said in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalRecruitmentAgency?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalRecruitmentAgency</a> will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters. Through the Common Eligibility Test, it will eliminate multiple tests and save precious time as well as resources. This will also be a big boost to transparency. <a href="https://t.co/FbCLAUrYmX">https://t.co/FbCLAUrYmX</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1296044829550370816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>A government release said the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister has given its approval for creation of National Recruitment Agency (NRA), paving the way for a "transformational reform in the recruitment process for central government jobs."</p>

<p>"A multi-agency body called the National Recruitment Agency (NRA) will conduct a Common Eligibility Test (CET) to screen/shortlist candidates for the Group B and C (non-technical) posts. NRA will have representatives of Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Finance/Department of Financial Services, the SSC, RRB &amp; IBPS. It is envisioned that the NRA would be a specialist body bringing the state-of-the-art technology and best practices to the field of Central Government recruitment," the release said.</p>

<p>It highlighted that NRA shall conduct a separate CET each for the three levels of graduate, higher secondary (12th pass) and the matriculate (10th pass) candidates for those non-technical posts to which recruitment is presently carried out by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) and by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS).</p>

<p>"Based on the screening done at the CET score level, final selection for recruitment shall be made through separate specialised Tiers (II, III etc) of examination which shall be conducted by the respective recruitment agencies. The curriculum for this test would be common as would be the standard. This would greatly ease the burden of candidates who are at present required to prepare for each of the examinations separately as per different curriculum," the release stated.</p>

<p>According to the release, candidates would have the facility of registering on a common portal and give a choice of Centres. "Based on availability, they would be allotted Centres. The ultimate aim is to reach a stage wherein candidates can schedule their own tests at Centres of their choice."</p>

<p>The CET would be available in a number of languages, it said while adding that this would greatly facilitate people from different parts of the country to take the exam and have an equal opportunity of being selected.</p>

<p>The release emphasised that a single eligibility test would significantly reduce the recruitment cycle. "Some departments have indicated their intention to do away with any second level test and go ahead with recruitment on the basis of CET scores, Physical Tests and Medical examination. This would greatly reduce the cycle and benefit a large section of youth."</p>

<p>"The government has sanctioned a sum of Rs 1517.57 crore for the National Recruitment Agency. The expenditure will be undertaken over a period of three years. Apart from setting up the NRA, costs will be incurred for setting up examination infrastructure in the 117 Aspirational Districts," it said.</p>


The National Recruitment Agency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday stressing that through the Common Eligibility Test it will eliminate multiple tests and save precious time as well as resources.

The National Recruitment Agency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday stressing that through the Common Eligibility Test it will eliminate multiple tests and save precious time as well as resources. Also read: Welcome Supreme Court's decision to order CBI probe in Sushant's case, says Bihar Deputy CM "The #NationalRecruitmentAgency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters. Through the Common Eligibility Test, it will eliminate multiple tests and save precious time as well as resources. This will also be a big boost to transparency," the Prime Minister said in a tweet. The #NationalRecruitmentAgency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters. Through the Common Eligibility Test, it will eliminate multiple tests and save precious time as well as resources. This will also be a big boost to transparency. https://t.co/FbCLAUrYmX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 19, 2020 × A government release said the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister has given its approval for creation of National Recruitment Agency (NRA), paving the way for a "transformational reform in the recruitment process for central government jobs." "A multi-agency body called the National Recruitment Agency (NRA) will conduct a Common Eligibility Test (CET) to screen/shortlist candidates for the Group B and C (non-technical) posts. NRA will have representatives of Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Finance/Department of Financial Services, the SSC, RRB & IBPS. It is envisioned that the NRA would be a specialist body bringing the state-of-the-art technology and best practices to the field of Central Government recruitment," the release said. It highlighted that NRA shall conduct a separate CET each for the three levels of graduate, higher secondary (12th pass) and the matriculate (10th pass) candidates for those non-technical posts to which recruitment is presently carried out by the Staff Selection Commission (SSC), the Railway Recruitment Boards (RRBs) and by the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS). "Based on the screening done at the CET score level, final selection for recruitment shall be made through separate specialised Tiers (II, III etc) of examination which shall be conducted by the respective recruitment agencies. The curriculum for this test would be common as would be the standard. This would greatly ease the burden of candidates who are at present required to prepare for each of the examinations separately as per different curriculum," the release stated. According to the release, candidates would have the facility of registering on a common portal and give a choice of Centres. "Based on availability, they would be allotted Centres. The ultimate aim is to reach a stage wherein candidates can schedule their own tests at Centres of their choice." The CET would be available in a number of languages, it said while adding that this would greatly facilitate people from different parts of the country to take the exam and have an equal opportunity of being selected. The release emphasised that a single eligibility test would significantly reduce the recruitment cycle. "Some departments have indicated their intention to do away with any second level test and go ahead with recruitment on the basis of CET scores, Physical Tests and Medical examination. This would greatly reduce the cycle and benefit a large section of youth." "The government has sanctioned a sum of Rs 1517.57 crore for the National Recruitment Agency. The expenditure will be undertaken over a period of three years. Apart from setting up the NRA, costs will be incurred for setting up examination infrastructure in the 117 Aspirational Districts," it said.

National Recruitment Agency will prove to be a boon for crores of youngsters, says PM Narendra Modi

On August 17, India and Nepal are all set to hold formal talks to review New Delhi's development projects in the country. Watch report.

India-Nepal talks today part of regular interaction: Border row will not be discussed

Nepal-India talks today: First normal engagement since border row

India and Nepal have concluded bilateral talks. The first official engagement between the two sides since the border dispute. Talks focused on India's developmental projects in Nepal. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: India and Nepal look to reboot ties; Conclude bilateral talks

India-Nepal bilateral talks: Focus on India's developmental projects

<p>Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi on Saturday announced the launch of National Digital Health Mission which aims to supply every Indian with a novel health ID that will store every individual's medical records.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister in his Independence Day speech said the mission will help every Indian in getting treatment in health facilities spread across the country.</p>

<p>"From today, a big campaign is being launched in which technology will play a big role. The National Digital Health Mission is being launched today. This will bring a new revolution in India's health sector and it will help reduce problems in getting treatment with the help of technology," he said.</p>

<p>"Every Indian will be given a health ID. This health ID will work as each Indian's health account," Modi said.</p>

<p>The Indian Prime Minister while announcing the scheme also said the citizen's health ID will contain every single record of the individual's medical record. The National Digital Health Mission is aimed to be the one-stop healthcare solution for each citizen of the country. The health ID would contain every test, disease and diagnosis, and medical reports together with medicine details in it.</p>

<p>The mission has been rolled out on pilot mode in six Union Territories.</p>

<p>The six union territories where the mission was unrolled through a pilot launch are Chandigarh, Ladakh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, the NHA said in a very statement.</p>

<p><strong>What is the National Digital Health Mission?</strong></p>

<p>The National Digital Health Mission is an ambitious mission which aims to equip quite more than 1.3 billion citizens of the country with a one-stop solution for each citizen’s healthcare. It'll come under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). The mission is expected to enhance the efficiency of health services within the country. The NDHM is going to be a digital infrastructure aimed at delivering the health care needs for anyone and everyone. The mission will focus to empower every Indian with high-quality healthcare, which may be accessed from any a part of the country.</p>

<p><strong>What is a health ID?</strong></p>

<p>The health IDs will be similar to that of Aadhar-like unique IDs. It will store every single information of a human case healthcare history. The details will be mapped with the citizen's unique ID. The govt aims to make a digital ecosystem linked with the Health ID which can later become a necessary need for any health-related queries.</p>

<p><strong>Where do get the Health ID from?</strong></p>

<p>Anyone can get the Health ID made sitting at home. All one has to do is to create their health ID on their own linking it with their Aadhar Card or mobile number. The ID once created will allow data sharing between hospitals and doctors digitally.</p>

<p><strong>Why do I need to link my Aadhar with the Health ID?</strong></p>

<p>If a person is looking to gain from government welfare schemes related to health, then they'll be required to link their ID to their Aadhaar.</p>

<p><strong>How safe is one's data?</strong></p>

<p>The Health ID is created by employing a person’s basic details and mobile number or Aadhaar number. This will make it unique to the person, who will have the choice to link all of their health records to the current ID.</p>

<p><strong>Which agency has been mandated to roll-out the ambitious scheme?</strong></p>

<p>The National Health Authority (NHA), the apex agency responsible for the implementation of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), has been given the mandate by the govt. to style, build, and roll-out and implement the NDHM within the country.</p>


Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi on Saturday announced the launch of National Digital Health Mission which aims to supply every Indian with a novel health ID that will store every individual's medical records.

Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi on Saturday announced the launch of National Digital Health Mission which aims to supply every Indian with a novel health ID that will store every individual's medical records. The Prime Minister in his Independence Day speech said the mission will help every Indian in getting treatment in health facilities spread across the country. "From today, a big campaign is being launched in which technology will play a big role. The National Digital Health Mission is being launched today. This will bring a new revolution in India's health sector and it will help reduce problems in getting treatment with the help of technology," he said. "Every Indian will be given a health ID. This health ID will work as each Indian's health account," Modi said. The Indian Prime Minister while announcing the scheme also said the citizen's health ID will contain every single record of the individual's medical record. The National Digital Health Mission is aimed to be the one-stop healthcare solution for each citizen of the country. The health ID would contain every test, disease and diagnosis, and medical reports together with medicine details in it. The mission has been rolled out on pilot mode in six Union Territories. The six union territories where the mission was unrolled through a pilot launch are Chandigarh, Ladakh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, the NHA said in a very statement. What is the National Digital Health Mission? The National Digital Health Mission is an ambitious mission which aims to equip quite more than 1.3 billion citizens of the country with a one-stop solution for each citizen’s healthcare. It'll come under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). The mission is expected to enhance the efficiency of health services within the country. The NDHM is going to be a digital infrastructure aimed at delivering the health care needs for anyone and everyone. The mission will focus to empower every Indian with high-quality healthcare, which may be accessed from any a part of the country. What is a health ID? The health IDs will be similar to that of Aadhar-like unique IDs. It will store every single information of a human case healthcare history. The details will be mapped with the citizen's unique ID. The govt aims to make a digital ecosystem linked with the Health ID which can later become a necessary need for any health-related queries. Where do get the Health ID from? Anyone can get the Health ID made sitting at home. All one has to do is to create their health ID on their own linking it with their Aadhar Card or mobile number. The ID once created will allow data sharing between hospitals and doctors digitally. Why do I need to link my Aadhar with the Health ID? If a person is looking to gain from government welfare schemes related to health, then they'll be required to link their ID to their Aadhaar. How safe is one's data? The Health ID is created by employing a person’s basic details and mobile number or Aadhaar number. This will make it unique to the person, who will have the choice to link all of their health records to the current ID. Which agency has been mandated to roll-out the ambitious scheme? The National Health Authority (NHA), the apex agency responsible for the implementation of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), has been given the mandate by the govt. to style, build, and roll-out and implement the NDHM within the country.

How National Digital Health Mission and Health ID card will benefit people: Everything you want to know

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a National Digital Health Mission that would be conceptualised soon -- according to which every Indian citizen would get a health identity card.</p>

<p>In his address to the nation on the 74th Independence Day, PM Modi also said three coronavirus vaccines were at different stages of trials and a roadmap was ready for production and distribution to every Indian.</p>

<p>"Three vaccines are in different stages of testing. When scientists give the go-ahead, we are ready with a plan for production. How the vaccine will reach every Indian in the least amount of time - we have a roadmap ready for that," the prime minister said.</p>

<p>On the national digital health mission, PM Modi said, "From today, a big campaign is being launched in which technology will play a big role. The National Digital Health Mission is being launched today. This will bring a new revolution in India's health sector and it will help reduce problems in getting treatment with the help of technology."</p>

<p>"Every Indian will be given a health ID. This health ID will work as each Indian's health account," he added.</p>

<p>The prime minister said the Mission will help reduce problems in getting treatment in various health facilities in the country and herald a new revolution in the sector.</p>

<p>Every test, disease and diagnosis, and medical reports along with medicines will be stored in every citizen's health ID. These health issues will be resolved through this National Digital Health Mission, PM Modi said while announcing the scheme.</p>

<p>PM Modi on Saturday delivered his seventh consecutive Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort.</p>

<p>He began his speech with a tribute to corona warriors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are passing through strange times. Today, I don't see children here at the Red Fort because of the pandemic we are facing. On behalf of the entire nation, I want to thank the efforts of all corona-warriors. All those healthcare workers, doctors and nurses, who have worked tirelessly to serve the nation," he said.</p>

<p>"In this corona crisis, many families have been affected, many have lost their lives. I know, with the resolve of 130 crore Indians, we will defeat this crisis," PM Modi said.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a National Digital Health Mission that would be conceptualised soon -- according to which every Indian citizen would get a health identity card.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced a National Digital Health Mission that would be conceptualised soon -- according to which every Indian citizen would get a health identity card. In his address to the nation on the 74th Independence Day, PM Modi also said three coronavirus vaccines were at different stages of trials and a roadmap was ready for production and distribution to every Indian. "Three vaccines are in different stages of testing. When scientists give the go-ahead, we are ready with a plan for production. How the vaccine will reach every Indian in the least amount of time - we have a roadmap ready for that," the prime minister said. On the national digital health mission, PM Modi said, "From today, a big campaign is being launched in which technology will play a big role. The National Digital Health Mission is being launched today. This will bring a new revolution in India's health sector and it will help reduce problems in getting treatment with the help of technology." "Every Indian will be given a health ID. This health ID will work as each Indian's health account," he added. The prime minister said the Mission will help reduce problems in getting treatment in various health facilities in the country and herald a new revolution in the sector. Every test, disease and diagnosis, and medical reports along with medicines will be stored in every citizen's health ID. These health issues will be resolved through this National Digital Health Mission, PM Modi said while announcing the scheme. PM Modi on Saturday delivered his seventh consecutive Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort. He began his speech with a tribute to corona warriors. "We are passing through strange times. Today, I don't see children here at the Red Fort because of the pandemic we are facing. On behalf of the entire nation, I want to thank the efforts of all corona-warriors. All those healthcare workers, doctors and nurses, who have worked tirelessly to serve the nation," he said. "In this corona crisis, many families have been affected, many have lost their lives. I know, with the resolve of 130 crore Indians, we will defeat this crisis," PM Modi said.

PM Modi announces launch of National Digital Health Mission in I-Day address to nation

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the respect for India's sovereignty is supreme and that the Indian Army has responded -- 'from the LoC to the LAC' -- to whoever has attacked it.</p>

<p>In his 87-minute-long address to the nation on India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi hailed the freedom fighters who fought for the country, and the security forces who daily&nbsp;strive to protect it from the enemy nations.</p>

<p>"Respect for India's sovereignty is supreme for us. What our brave soldiers can do for this resolution, what the country can do, the world has seen in Ladakh," PM Modi said, in an apparent reference to a violent clash in the Galwan Valley on June 15 in which as many as 20 Indian soldiers and an unknown number of Chinese People`s Liberation Army (PLA) were killed.</p>

<p>He added, "From LoC (Line of Control) to LAC (Line of Actual Control), whenever India has been challenged, our soldiers have given a fitting response in a language they understand."</p>

<p>The prime minister, however, did not mention either Pakistan or China in his speech.</p>

<p>PM Modi said India is connecting its relations with its neighbours, whether they are connected to it on land or from the sea, with the partnership of security, development and trust.</p>

<p>Noting that one-fourth of the world's population lives in South Asia, the prime minister said we can create untold possibilities of development and prosperity of such a large population with cooperation and participation.</p>

<p>"All the leaders of the countries of this region have an important responsibility towards the development and progress of this huge mass group."</p>

<p>He added the neighbours are not only those who meet our geographical boundaries but also those who meet our hearts. "Where there is harmony in relationships, bonding occurs."</p>

<p>As much as India's efforts are for peace and harmony, PM Modi said the more commitment it has for its security and to make its Army stronger.</p>

<p>"India is also fully equipped for self-sufficiency in defence production," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-dedicates-74th-independence-day-address-to-corona-warriors-security-forces-320685"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi dedicates 74th Independence Day address to corona warriors, security forces</strong></a></p>

<p>Continuing the tradition of sporting bright-coloured turbans for his Independence Day speeches, the prime minister chose an off-white saafa with broad streak of orange for the second I-Day address of his second term, and seventh consecutive address.</p>

<p>The Independence Day function, this year, is relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the respect for India's sovereignty is supreme and that the Indian Army has responded -- 'from the LoC to the LAC' -- to whoever has attacked it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the respect for India's sovereignty is supreme and that the Indian Army has responded -- 'from the LoC to the LAC' -- to whoever has attacked it. In his 87-minute-long address to the nation on India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi hailed the freedom fighters who fought for the country, and the security forces who daily strive to protect it from the enemy nations. "Respect for India's sovereignty is supreme for us. What our brave soldiers can do for this resolution, what the country can do, the world has seen in Ladakh," PM Modi said, in an apparent reference to a violent clash in the Galwan Valley on June 15 in which as many as 20 Indian soldiers and an unknown number of Chinese People`s Liberation Army (PLA) were killed. He added, "From LoC (Line of Control) to LAC (Line of Actual Control), whenever India has been challenged, our soldiers have given a fitting response in a language they understand." The prime minister, however, did not mention either Pakistan or China in his speech. PM Modi said India is connecting its relations with its neighbours, whether they are connected to it on land or from the sea, with the partnership of security, development and trust. Noting that one-fourth of the world's population lives in South Asia, the prime minister said we can create untold possibilities of development and prosperity of such a large population with cooperation and participation. "All the leaders of the countries of this region have an important responsibility towards the development and progress of this huge mass group." He added the neighbours are not only those who meet our geographical boundaries but also those who meet our hearts. "Where there is harmony in relationships, bonding occurs." As much as India's efforts are for peace and harmony, PM Modi said the more commitment it has for its security and to make its Army stronger. "India is also fully equipped for self-sufficiency in defence production," he added. Also read | PM Modi dedicates 74th Independence Day address to corona warriors, security forces Continuing the tradition of sporting bright-coloured turbans for his Independence Day speeches, the prime minister chose an off-white saafa with broad streak of orange for the second I-Day address of his second term, and seventh consecutive address. The Independence Day function, this year, is relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

'From LoC to LAC': PM Modi had a message for Pak, China in his I-Day address

India celebrates its 74th Independence Day at Red Fort; PM thanks frontline warriors

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli spoke to each other over the phone on Saturday – the first time since Kathmandu brought a new political map of the country that showed several Indian territories as its own.

Indian PM Modi speaks to Nepal counterpart

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday -- delivering the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day -- said the call for "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) has captured people's imagination and become a "mantra" for everyone, as he pushed for raising India's share in global economy.</p>

<p>He said India must become self-reliant and use its vast natural resources to produce for the domestic as well as the global market.&nbsp;He said in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, 130 crore Indians have pledged to build a 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'.</p>

<p>"I am confident that India will realise this dream. I am confident of the abilities, confidence and potential of my fellow Indians. Once we decide to do something, we do not rest till we achieve that goal," he said.</p>

<p>The prime minister said the country received record foreign direct investments during the last fiscal and even during the coronavirus pandemic, big global companies are looking towards India.</p>

<p>He said the FDI growth was recorded at 18 per cent last fiscal.</p>

<p>Modi reiterated in his address 'Vocal for Local' call and said that India should strive for meeting needs of the world as well and wondered how long the country would continue to export raw materials and import finished products.</p>

<p>He said India has vast natural resources and need of the hour was value addition.</p>

<p>"Now we have to move ahead with the mantra of make for the world along with Make-in-India," he said.</p>

<p>He further said 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' does not mean only reducing dependence on imports, but strengthening India's capacity, creativity and skills.</p>

<p>Addressing for the seventh time in a row from the Red Fort, he said there are numerous challenges in becoming self-reliant, but there are millions of solutions as well.</p>

<p>"India has always believed that the entire world is one family. While we focus on economic growth and development, humanity must retain a central role in this process and our journey," Modi said.</p>

<p>Citing an example what India can do, Modi said before the COVID-19 panedmic, the country was not making N-95 masks, PPE and ventillators, but now it is in a position to export such items.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday -- delivering the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day -- said the call for "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) has captured people's imagination and become a "mantra" for everyone, as he pushed for raising India's share in global economy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday -- delivering the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day -- said the call for "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) has captured people's imagination and become a "mantra" for everyone, as he pushed for raising India's share in global economy. He said India must become self-reliant and use its vast natural resources to produce for the domestic as well as the global market. He said in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, 130 crore Indians have pledged to build a 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. "I am confident that India will realise this dream. I am confident of the abilities, confidence and potential of my fellow Indians. Once we decide to do something, we do not rest till we achieve that goal," he said. The prime minister said the country received record foreign direct investments during the last fiscal and even during the coronavirus pandemic, big global companies are looking towards India. He said the FDI growth was recorded at 18 per cent last fiscal. Modi reiterated in his address 'Vocal for Local' call and said that India should strive for meeting needs of the world as well and wondered how long the country would continue to export raw materials and import finished products. He said India has vast natural resources and need of the hour was value addition. "Now we have to move ahead with the mantra of make for the world along with Make-in-India," he said. He further said 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' does not mean only reducing dependence on imports, but strengthening India's capacity, creativity and skills. Addressing for the seventh time in a row from the Red Fort, he said there are numerous challenges in becoming self-reliant, but there are millions of solutions as well. "India has always believed that the entire world is one family. While we focus on economic growth and development, humanity must retain a central role in this process and our journey," Modi said. Citing an example what India can do, Modi said before the COVID-19 panedmic, the country was not making N-95 masks, PPE and ventillators, but now it is in a position to export such items.

'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' has become mantra for everyone: PM Modi

PM Modi on the occasion of India's 74 Independence Day is addressing the nation from the Red Fort. PM said that the government is constantly working improving towards improving the connectivity in the nation.

Indian PM Narendra Modi: "Our focus is on improving connectivity" | India News

Meanwhile, in a direct reference to China and the recent standoff at the LoC between India and China, Indian PM Narendra Modi in his speech at the Red Fort said that no one can challenge India's sovereignty and if India sovereignty is attacked then India will respond with a befitting reply.

Indian PM Narendra Modi speech at India's 74th Independence Day: "Indian Army showed its might at LoC & LAC"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech on the Red Fort said, “Not one, not two, as many as three coronavirus vaccines are being tested in India.” He added, "India is ready to mass-produce COVID-19 vaccines to distribute across the country when scientists give the go-ahead to do so."

Indian PM Narendra Modi: India is working to develop 3 COVID-19 vaccines

PM Modi on the occasion of India's 74 Independence Day is addressing the nation from the Red Fort. PM launched the "National Digital Health Scheme" and explained that every Indian would get an ID card that would contain all relevant information about a person's medical conditions. This card would also be used to access health services and medicines.

Indian PM Narendra Modi: "Health ID for each Indian" | National Digital Health Scheme

On the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi is addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort. PM hailed the corona warriors and said that the nation will surely win the fight against the coronavirus.

Indian PM Narendra Modi address on India's 74th Independence Day: India will win the battle against COVID-19

<p>The coronavirus pandemic, security forces and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' were the centrepiece of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address as he presented a broad outline for spurring India's growth in diverse sectors.</p>

<p>In his seventh straight Independence Day speech from the ramparts of Red Fort, Modi made a host of new announcements on Saturday including the launch of a national digital health mission under which health IDs will be given to everyone, connecting all six lakh villages with optical fibres in 1000 days and promised the holding of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir after the delimitation exercise is over.</p>

<p>PM Modi also chose the occasion to deliver a warning to India's hostile neighbours saying the armed forces have given a befitting reply to those who challenged the country's sovereignty "from LoC to LAC" in their own language.</p>

<p>In a reference to the border row with China in eastern Ladakh, Modi said: "Respect for India's sovereignty is supreme for us and the world has seen in Ladakh what our brave jawans can do to maintain this resolve. I salute all those brave soldiers from the Red Fort."</p>

<p>"Whether it is terrorism or expansionism, India is fighting both with determination," Modi said.</p>

<p>India's freedom struggle, he said, became a challenge to forces of expansionism while attempts were made for hundreds of years by various rulers to root out India's culture and traditions.</p>

<p>Continuing the tradition of sporting bright-coloured turbans for his Independence Day speeches, the prime minister chose an off-white saafa with broad streak of orange for the second I-Day address of his second term, and seventh consecutive address.</p>

<p>In his 87-minute-long speech -- one of his longest addresses, PM Modi also touched upon the much-anticipated issue of vaccine for COVID-19 and said three vaccines are in various phases of trials in the country. He said that a roadmap is ready to innoculate all citizens at the shortest possible time with their mass production after scientists give a green signal.</p>

<p>The Independence Day function, this year, is relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>To this end, PM Modi hailed the fight put up by "Corona Warriors" of the country -- medical professionals, police personnel and providing other essential services -- who have been relentlessly battling the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>PM Modi said, “We can’t even count the number of nameless faces who have worked to fight against the coronavirus pandemic in these months. To these workers and Corona Warriors, I bow my head with humility.”</p>

<p><strong>HEALTH MISSION</strong></p>

<p>PM Modi also announced a National Digital Health Mission that would be conceptualised soon -- according to which every Indian citizen would get a health identity card.</p>

<p>"Every Indian will get a Health ID card. Every time you visit a doctor or a pharmacy, everything will be logged in this health card in your profile on a national scale. From the doctor's appointment to the medication advised, everything will be available in your health profile," he said.</p>

<p><strong>FROM LAC TO LOC</strong></p>

<p>India's soldiers have given a fitting reply to those who challenged the country's sovereignty "from LoC to LAC", PM Modi said.</p>

<p>"From LoC (Line of Control) to LAC (Line of Actual Control), whenever India has been challenged, our soldiers have given a fitting response in a language they understand," said the Prime Minister, in a strong message to both Pakistan and China."</p>

<p>Referring to the clash with China in June at Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, in which 20 soldiers died for the country, PM Modi said: "What our jawans can do, what the country can do, the world has seen in Ladakh. Today, I salute all those brave soldiers from the Red Fort."</p>

<p><strong>AATMANIRBHAR BHARAT</strong></p>

<p>The prime minister&nbsp;said the call for "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) has captured people's imagination and become a "mantra" for everyone, as he pushed for raising India's share in global economy.</p>

<p>He also listed out a number of reform measures undertaken by his government which has resulted in a record Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country last year.</p>

<p>Speaking of self-reliant India, he said many concerns are raised about it and acknowledged challenges ahead but asserted that there are "crores of solutions" offered by the country's citizens to "lakhs of challenges".<br />
Vocal for local should be the mantra of the free India, he said.</p>

<p>He said his government has freed farmers of their contraints, and they can now trade their products freely at their terms.</p>

<p>India's freedom struggle, he said, became a challenge to forces of expansionism while attempts were made for hundreds of years by various rulers to root out India's culture and traditions.</p>

<p><strong>JAMMU AND KASHMIR</strong></p>

<p>The prime minister said the 'delimitation process' is underway in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that polls would be conducted soon in the Union Territory.</p>

<p>"Delimitation process is underway in Jammu and Kashmir. Once it is completed, an election will be held in the Union Territory. Jammu and Kashmir will have its own chief minister and ministers. We are committed to this," he said.</p>

<p>"This one year is a year of the new journey of development for Jammu and Kashmir. This one year is the year of the rights received by the women and the Dalits in Jammu and Kashmir. This one year is also the year of a life of dignity for the refugees in Jammu and Kashmir," the prime minister said.</p>

<p><strong>INTERNET CONNECTIVITY</strong></p>

<p>PM Modi announced that the task to connect India's over six lakh villages with optical fibre network will be completed in the next 1,000 days.</p>

<p>Besides, a high speed internet connectivity via submarine optical fibre cable will be extended to Lakshadweep in this period, he said.</p>

<p>Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on India's 74th Independence Day, he pointed out that only five dozen panchayats in the country were connected with optical fibre cable before 2014.</p>

<p>The prime minister also announced a new policy on cyber security to be unveiled shortly amid threats emanating from cyber space.</p>

<p>He said the country is witnessing expansion of roads and internet at unprecedented and rapid speed, from the peaks of Himalayas to islands in the Indian Ocean.</p>

<p>In the last five years, 1.5 lakh village panchayats have been connected with optical fibre cable, Modi said.</p>

<p>"In the next 1,000 days, all villages in the country will be connected with optical fibre," he said, adding Lakshadweep too would be connected with submarine optical fibre cable in the next 1,000 days.</p>

<p><strong>NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY</strong></p>

<p>The prime minister said the new National Education Policy (NEP) seeks to strengthen research and innovation in the country to help it progress in a competitive world.</p>

<p>"Education has an important role to play in making India self-reliant, happy and prosperous. With this objective, we have been able to give the country a new education policy after over three decades," he said.</p>

<p>"This will shape the India of the 21st century. We will soon have citizens who shape a new India, ones who are global citizens but know and understand their roots. The new education policy also focuses on research and development to make India a key research and development destination for the world."</p>

<p>"The policy lays special emphasis on the National Research Foundation because innovation is important for the country's progress. Only when we strengthen innovation and research will our country remain competitive and move ahead. The more innovation is strengthened in the country the more progress it will make in a competitive world," he added.</p>

<p>Approved by the government last month, the NEP replaces the 34-year-old National Policy on Education framed in 1986. It is aimed at paving the way for transformational reforms in school and higher education systems to make India a global knowledge superpower.</p>

<p>The prime minister also underlined the opportunity presented by the COVID-19 pandemic for the education sector in the form of online classes.</p>

<p>"Did anyone even think that online classes would reach our villages so quickly. Sometimes an opportunity can show itself even during a disaster. Online classes have become a culture during the times of COVID," he said.</p>

<p>PM Modi had, earlier in the day, extended greetings to the people of the nation. "Happy Independence Day to all fellow Indians. Jai Hind!" he tweeted from his official Twitter account.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>


The coronavirus pandemic, security forces and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' were the centrepiece of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address as he presented a broad outline for spurring India's growth in diverse sectors.

The coronavirus pandemic, security forces and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' were the centrepiece of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address as he presented a broad outline for spurring India's growth in diverse sectors. In his seventh straight Independence Day speech from the ramparts of Red Fort, Modi made a host of new announcements on Saturday including the launch of a national digital health mission under which health IDs will be given to everyone, connecting all six lakh villages with optical fibres in 1000 days and promised the holding of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir after the delimitation exercise is over. PM Modi also chose the occasion to deliver a warning to India's hostile neighbours saying the armed forces have given a befitting reply to those who challenged the country's sovereignty "from LoC to LAC" in their own language. In a reference to the border row with China in eastern Ladakh, Modi said: "Respect for India's sovereignty is supreme for us and the world has seen in Ladakh what our brave jawans can do to maintain this resolve. I salute all those brave soldiers from the Red Fort." "Whether it is terrorism or expansionism, India is fighting both with determination," Modi said. India's freedom struggle, he said, became a challenge to forces of expansionism while attempts were made for hundreds of years by various rulers to root out India's culture and traditions. Continuing the tradition of sporting bright-coloured turbans for his Independence Day speeches, the prime minister chose an off-white saafa with broad streak of orange for the second I-Day address of his second term, and seventh consecutive address. In his 87-minute-long speech -- one of his longest addresses, PM Modi also touched upon the much-anticipated issue of vaccine for COVID-19 and said three vaccines are in various phases of trials in the country. He said that a roadmap is ready to innoculate all citizens at the shortest possible time with their mass production after scientists give a green signal. The Independence Day function, this year, is relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the coronavirus pandemic. To this end, PM Modi hailed the fight put up by "Corona Warriors" of the country -- medical professionals, police personnel and providing other essential services -- who have been relentlessly battling the coronavirus pandemic. PM Modi said, “We can’t even count the number of nameless faces who have worked to fight against the coronavirus pandemic in these months. To these workers and Corona Warriors, I bow my head with humility.” HEALTH MISSION PM Modi also announced a National Digital Health Mission that would be conceptualised soon -- according to which every Indian citizen would get a health identity card. "Every Indian will get a Health ID card. Every time you visit a doctor or a pharmacy, everything will be logged in this health card in your profile on a national scale. From the doctor's appointment to the medication advised, everything will be available in your health profile," he said. FROM LAC TO LOC India's soldiers have given a fitting reply to those who challenged the country's sovereignty "from LoC to LAC", PM Modi said. "From LoC (Line of Control) to LAC (Line of Actual Control), whenever India has been challenged, our soldiers have given a fitting response in a language they understand," said the Prime Minister, in a strong message to both Pakistan and China." Referring to the clash with China in June at Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh, in which 20 soldiers died for the country, PM Modi said: "What our jawans can do, what the country can do, the world has seen in Ladakh. Today, I salute all those brave soldiers from the Red Fort." AATMANIRBHAR BHARAT The prime minister said the call for "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) has captured people's imagination and become a "mantra" for everyone, as he pushed for raising India's share in global economy. He also listed out a number of reform measures undertaken by his government which has resulted in a record Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country last year. Speaking of self-reliant India, he said many concerns are raised about it and acknowledged challenges ahead but asserted that there are "crores of solutions" offered by the country's citizens to "lakhs of challenges". Vocal for local should be the mantra of the free India, he said. He said his government has freed farmers of their contraints, and they can now trade their products freely at their terms. India's freedom struggle, he said, became a challenge to forces of expansionism while attempts were made for hundreds of years by various rulers to root out India's culture and traditions. JAMMU AND KASHMIR The prime minister said the 'delimitation process' is underway in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that polls would be conducted soon in the Union Territory. "Delimitation process is underway in Jammu and Kashmir. Once it is completed, an election will be held in the Union Territory. Jammu and Kashmir will have its own chief minister and ministers. We are committed to this," he said. "This one year is a year of the new journey of development for Jammu and Kashmir. This one year is the year of the rights received by the women and the Dalits in Jammu and Kashmir. This one year is also the year of a life of dignity for the refugees in Jammu and Kashmir," the prime minister said. INTERNET CONNECTIVITY PM Modi announced that the task to connect India's over six lakh villages with optical fibre network will be completed in the next 1,000 days. Besides, a high speed internet connectivity via submarine optical fibre cable will be extended to Lakshadweep in this period, he said. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on India's 74th Independence Day, he pointed out that only five dozen panchayats in the country were connected with optical fibre cable before 2014. The prime minister also announced a new policy on cyber security to be unveiled shortly amid threats emanating from cyber space. He said the country is witnessing expansion of roads and internet at unprecedented and rapid speed, from the peaks of Himalayas to islands in the Indian Ocean. In the last five years, 1.5 lakh village panchayats have been connected with optical fibre cable, Modi said. "In the next 1,000 days, all villages in the country will be connected with optical fibre," he said, adding Lakshadweep too would be connected with submarine optical fibre cable in the next 1,000 days. NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY The prime minister said the new National Education Policy (NEP) seeks to strengthen research and innovation in the country to help it progress in a competitive world. "Education has an important role to play in making India self-reliant, happy and prosperous. With this objective, we have been able to give the country a new education policy after over three decades," he said. "This will shape the India of the 21st century. We will soon have citizens who shape a new India, ones who are global citizens but know and understand their roots. The new education policy also focuses on research and development to make India a key research and development destination for the world." "The policy lays special emphasis on the National Research Foundation because innovation is important for the country's progress. Only when we strengthen innovation and research will our country remain competitive and move ahead. The more innovation is strengthened in the country the more progress it will make in a competitive world," he added. Approved by the government last month, the NEP replaces the 34-year-old National Policy on Education framed in 1986. It is aimed at paving the way for transformational reforms in school and higher education systems to make India a global knowledge superpower. The prime minister also underlined the opportunity presented by the COVID-19 pandemic for the education sector in the form of online classes. "Did anyone even think that online classes would reach our villages so quickly. Sometimes an opportunity can show itself even during a disaster. Online classes have become a culture during the times of COVID," he said. PM Modi had, earlier in the day, extended greetings to the people of the nation. "Happy Independence Day to all fellow Indians. Jai Hind!" he tweeted from his official Twitter account. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Modi dedicates 74th Independence Day address to corona warriors, security forces

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to corona warriors -- those at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus pandemic -- as he delivered his seventh consecutive address to the nation on India's 74th Independence Day.</p>

<p>"We are passing through strange times. Today, I don't see children here at the Red Fort because of the pandemic we are facing. On behalf of the entire nation, I want to thank the efforts of all corona-warriors. All those healthcare workers, doctors and nurses, who have worked tirelessly to serve the nation," he said.</p>

<p>The prime pinister also paid tribute to the armed forces and soldiers who&nbsp;died fighting for the nation.</p>

<p>Leaders from across the world posted congratulatory messages on the social media, wishing India on its 74th Independence Day.</p>

<p>First in the list was US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. He said Washington and New Delhi share close bond of friendship and democratic traditions.</p>

<p>"On behalf of the government of the United States of America and the American people, I extend greetings and best wishes to the people of India on your Independence Day," Pompeo said in his India Independence Day greetings message on Friday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-secy-of-state-greets-india-on-independence-day-says-its-americas-friend-320634"><strong>Read |&nbsp;US Secy of State greets India on Independence Day, says it's America's friend</strong></a></p>

<p>Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison took to Twitter to wish his Indian counterpart and people of India on their 74th Independence Day.</p>

<p>He wrote, "Warm wishes to @narendramodi and the people of India on their Independence Day. The deep friendship and partnership between Australia and India is founded on bharosa (trust), samman (respect) and shared values. Happy Independence Day!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Warm wishes to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and the people of India on their Independence Day. The deep friendship and partnership between Australia and India is founded on bharosa (trust), samman (respect) and shared values. Happy Independence Day!</p>
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1294497163582439424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Russia President Vladimir Putin said the success achieved by India in economic, social and other spheres is widely acknowledged.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Congratulatory Message of the President of the Russian Federation on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaIndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaIndependenceDay</a> ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/2Iv0MiqT59">https://t.co/2Iv0MiqT59</a> <a href="https://t.co/MjgO6Fvk77">pic.twitter.com/MjgO6Fvk77</a></p>
— Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1294509958843621382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Wiedong also tweeted. He said, "Congratulations to the Indian government &amp; people on #IndependenceDay2020. Wish #China &amp; #India, two great nations with ancient civilization prosper together in peace and develop with closer partnership."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to the Indian government &amp; people on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2020</a>. Wish <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>, two great nations with ancient civilization prosper together in peace and develop with closer partnership.</p>
— Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1294518990883049472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who has managed to invite the wrath of Indians by claiming Lord Rama was born in his country, was among the first ones to pour in best wishes for India.</p>

<p>He tweeted, "Congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, the Government and people of India on the happy occasion of the 74th Independence Day. &nbsp;Best wishes for more progress and prosperity of the people of India."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji, the Government and people of India on the happy occasion of the 74th Independence Day. Best wishes for more progress and prosperity of the people of India.</p>
— K P Sharma Oli (@kpsharmaoli) <a href="https://twitter.com/kpsharmaoli/status/1294457891005575169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former deputy prime minister of Nepal Kamal Thapa also wished India.</p>

<p>"Congratulations to Hon. @narendramodi n all Indian friends on the happy occasion of 74th Independence Day of India," he wrote.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulations to Hon. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> n all Indian friends on the happy occasion of 74th Independence Day of India.</p>
— Kamal Thapa (@KTnepal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KTnepal/status/1294450720934998016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said, "I extend my warmest congratulations to PM Shri @narendramodi &amp; the people of India on #74thIndependenceDay. In these challenging times, it is even more important to cherish the freedom &amp; independence of our nations. People of #LKA joins me in wishing you the very best !"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I extend my warmest congratulations to PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; the people of India on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/74thIndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#74thIndependenceDay</a>.<br />
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In these challenging times, it is even more important to cherish the freedom &amp; independence of our nations<br />
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People of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LKA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LKA</a> joins me in wishing you the very best ! <a href="https://t.co/ojsDOU7sCg">pic.twitter.com/ojsDOU7sCg</a></p>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1294517053030891523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Tandi Dorji,&nbsp;Minister for Foreign Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan, also tweeted.</p>

<p>He said, "I take this privilege to wish every Indians, a very #HappyIndependenceDay. I pray for your great country to grow from strength to strength."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I take this privilege to wish every Indians, a very <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyIndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyIndependenceDay</a>. I pray for your great country to grow from strength to strength.</p>
— ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FMBhutan/status/1294466033604890627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>US Ambassador to India Ken Juster also congratulated India.</p>

<p>"On behalf of the U.S. Mission, we wish everyone in India a healthy and happy #IndependenceDay! #USIndiaDost," he wrote.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On behalf of the U.S. Mission, we wish everyone in India a healthy and happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USIndiaDosti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USIndiaDosti</a> <a href="https://t.co/tnwBTLzEZI">pic.twitter.com/tnwBTLzEZI</a></p>
— Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/1294476408417386496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Chargé d'Affaires for&nbsp;Afghanistan in India, Tahir Qadiry tweeted, "Sending the great Indian nation the best of salutations for the 74th #IndependenceDayIndia. India has been a vital, veracious, solid &amp; very significant ally of #Afghanistan through thick &amp; thin. We’ll strive to further strengthen our everlasting bilateral ties. आजादी मुबारक"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sending the great Indian nation the best of salutations for the 74th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDayIndia</a>. India has been a vital, veracious, solid &amp; very significant ally of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> through thick &amp; thin. We’ll strive to further strengthen our everlasting bilateral ties. आजादी मुबारक 🇦🇫|🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/plsfLvnd0j">pic.twitter.com/plsfLvnd0j</a></p>
— Tahir Qadiry طاهر قادرى (@tahirqadiry) <a href="https://twitter.com/tahirqadiry/status/1294479893812527104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Dr Ron Malka, Ambassador of Israel to India, posted, "From all of us in @Israel Flag of Israel &amp; @IsraelinIndia, I wish India a very #HappyIndependenceDay2020 Flag of India Jai Hind!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">From all of us in <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Israel</a> 🇮🇱 &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsraelinIndia</a>, I wish India a very <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyIndependenceDay2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyIndependenceDay2020</a> 🇮🇳 Jai Hind! 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/uQjAwv0gkL">pic.twitter.com/uQjAwv0gkL</a></p>
— Ron Malka 🇮🇱 (@DrRonMalka) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrRonMalka/status/1294492264643743744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Barry O’Farrell, Australia's High Commissioner to India, tweeted, "Happy Independence Day! #IndependenceDayIndia #15August2020"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Independence Day! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDayIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/15August2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#15August2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/z42O8sVWo3">pic.twitter.com/z42O8sVWo3</a></p>
— Barry O’Farrell AO (@AusHCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AusHCIndia/status/1294481821623697409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Israel President Reuven Rivlin also congratulated India.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Congratulatory message from the President of the State of Israel HE <a href="https://twitter.com/PresidentRuvi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PresidentRuvi</a> on India's 74th Independence Day. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AatmaNirbharBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AatmaNirbharBharat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDayIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelMFA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsraelMFA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsraelinIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/CjSH14ABmc">pic.twitter.com/CjSH14ABmc</a></p>
— India in Israel (@indemtel) <a href="https://twitter.com/indemtel/status/1294506110121136128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia also wished India and its citizens.</p>

<p>"Our sincere congratulations to the people of India, @narendramodi, @PMOIndia, @DrSJaishankar &amp; colleagues at @IndianDiplomacy, @IndEmbMoscow &amp; @cgivladivostok on Independence Day! #IndependenceDay #IndependenceDay2020 #India #Russia" it wrote.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🤝🇷🇺🇮🇳Our sincere congratulations to the people of India, <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> &amp; colleagues at <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/IndEmbMoscow?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndEmbMoscow</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/cgivladivostok?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cgivladivostok</a> on Independence Day! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/14iq9VTr14">pic.twitter.com/14iq9VTr14</a></p>
— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia/status/1294532507011026949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Independence Day function, this year, is relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to corona warriors -- those at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus pandemic -- as he delivered his seventh consecutive address to the nation on India's 74th Independence Day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to corona warriors -- those at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus pandemic -- as he delivered his seventh consecutive address to the nation on India's 74th Independence Day. "We are passing through strange times. Today, I don't see children here at the Red Fort because of the pandemic we are facing. On behalf of the entire nation, I want to thank the efforts of all corona-warriors. All those healthcare workers, doctors and nurses, who have worked tirelessly to serve the nation," he said. The prime pinister also paid tribute to the armed forces and soldiers who died fighting for the nation. Leaders from across the world posted congratulatory messages on the social media, wishing India on its 74th Independence Day. First in the list was US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. He said Washington and New Delhi share close bond of friendship and democratic traditions. "On behalf of the government of the United States of America and the American people, I extend greetings and best wishes to the people of India on your Independence Day," Pompeo said in his India Independence Day greetings message on Friday. Read | US Secy of State greets India on Independence Day, says it's America's friend Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison took to Twitter to wish his Indian counterpart and people of India on their 74th Independence Day. He wrote, "Warm wishes to @narendramodi and the people of India on their Independence Day. The deep friendship and partnership between Australia and India is founded on bharosa (trust), samman (respect) and shared values. Happy Independence Day!" Warm wishes to @narendramodi and the people of India on their Independence Day. The deep friendship and partnership between Australia and India is founded on bharosa (trust), samman (respect) and shared values. Happy Independence Day! — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) August 15, 2020 × Russia President Vladimir Putin said the success achieved by India in economic, social and other spheres is widely acknowledged. The Congratulatory Message of the President of the Russian Federation on the occasion of #IndiaIndependenceDay ➡️ https://t.co/2Iv0MiqT59 pic.twitter.com/MjgO6Fvk77 — Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) August 15, 2020 × Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Wiedong also tweeted. He said, "Congratulations to the Indian government & people on #IndependenceDay2020. Wish #China & #India, two great nations with ancient civilization prosper together in peace and develop with closer partnership." Congratulations to the Indian government & people on #IndependenceDay2020. Wish #China & #India, two great nations with ancient civilization prosper together in peace and develop with closer partnership. — Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) August 15, 2020 × Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who has managed to invite the wrath of Indians by claiming Lord Rama was born in his country, was among the first ones to pour in best wishes for India. He tweeted, "Congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, the Government and people of India on the happy occasion of the 74th Independence Day. Best wishes for more progress and prosperity of the people of India." Congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, the Government and people of India on the happy occasion of the 74th Independence Day. Best wishes for more progress and prosperity of the people of India. — K P Sharma Oli (@kpsharmaoli) August 15, 2020 × Former deputy prime minister of Nepal Kamal Thapa also wished India. "Congratulations to Hon. @narendramodi n all Indian friends on the happy occasion of 74th Independence Day of India," he wrote. Congratulations to Hon. @narendramodi n all Indian friends on the happy occasion of 74th Independence Day of India. — Kamal Thapa (@KTnepal) August 15, 2020 × Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said, "I extend my warmest congratulations to PM Shri @narendramodi & the people of India on #74thIndependenceDay. In these challenging times, it is even more important to cherish the freedom & independence of our nations. People of #LKA joins me in wishing you the very best !" I extend my warmest congratulations to PM Shri @narendramodi & the people of India on #74thIndependenceDay. In these challenging times, it is even more important to cherish the freedom & independence of our nations People of #LKA joins me in wishing you the very best ! pic.twitter.com/ojsDOU7sCg — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) August 15, 2020 × Tandi Dorji, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan, also tweeted. He said, "I take this privilege to wish every Indians, a very #HappyIndependenceDay. I pray for your great country to grow from strength to strength." I take this privilege to wish every Indians, a very #HappyIndependenceDay. I pray for your great country to grow from strength to strength. — ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) August 15, 2020 × US Ambassador to India Ken Juster also congratulated India. "On behalf of the U.S. Mission, we wish everyone in India a healthy and happy #IndependenceDay! #USIndiaDost," he wrote. On behalf of the U.S. Mission, we wish everyone in India a healthy and happy #IndependenceDay! #USIndiaDosti pic.twitter.com/tnwBTLzEZI — Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) August 15, 2020 × Chargé d'Affaires for Afghanistan in India, Tahir Qadiry tweeted, "Sending the great Indian nation the best of salutations for the 74th #IndependenceDayIndia. India has been a vital, veracious, solid & very significant ally of #Afghanistan through thick & thin. We’ll strive to further strengthen our everlasting bilateral ties. आजादी मुबारक" Sending the great Indian nation the best of salutations for the 74th #IndependenceDayIndia. India has been a vital, veracious, solid & very significant ally of #Afghanistan through thick & thin. We’ll strive to further strengthen our everlasting bilateral ties. आजादी मुबारक 🇦🇫|🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/plsfLvnd0j — Tahir Qadiry طاهر قادرى (@tahirqadiry) August 15, 2020 × Dr Ron Malka, Ambassador of Israel to India, posted, "From all of us in @Israel Flag of Israel & @IsraelinIndia, I wish India a very #HappyIndependenceDay2020 Flag of India Jai Hind!" From all of us in @Israel 🇮🇱 & @IsraelinIndia, I wish India a very #HappyIndependenceDay2020 🇮🇳 Jai Hind! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/uQjAwv0gkL — Ron Malka 🇮🇱 (@DrRonMalka) August 15, 2020 × Barry O’Farrell, Australia's High Commissioner to India, tweeted, "Happy Independence Day! #IndependenceDayIndia #15August2020" Happy Independence Day! #IndependenceDayIndia #15August2020 pic.twitter.com/z42O8sVWo3 — Barry O’Farrell AO (@AusHCIndia) August 15, 2020 × Israel President Reuven Rivlin also congratulated India. Congratulatory message from the President of the State of Israel HE @PresidentRuvi on India's 74th Independence Day. #AatmaNirbharBharat #IndependenceDayIndia @rashtrapatibhvn @PMOIndia @MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy @PIB_India @IsraelMFA @IsraelinIndia pic.twitter.com/CjSH14ABmc — India in Israel (@indemtel) August 15, 2020 × Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia also wished India and its citizens. "Our sincere congratulations to the people of India, @narendramodi, @PMOIndia, @DrSJaishankar & colleagues at @IndianDiplomacy, @IndEmbMoscow & @cgivladivostok on Independence Day! #IndependenceDay #IndependenceDay2020 #India #Russia" it wrote. 🤝🇷🇺🇮🇳Our sincere congratulations to the people of India, @narendramodi, @PMOIndia, @DrSJaishankar & colleagues at @IndianDiplomacy, @IndEmbMoscow & @cgivladivostok on Independence Day! #IndependenceDay #IndependenceDay2020 #India #Russia pic.twitter.com/14iq9VTr14 — MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) August 15, 2020 × The Independence Day function, this year, is relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

World leaders, diplomats wish India on its 74th Independence Day

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli&nbsp;had a conversation on Saturday -- in a first since Kathmandu brought about a new map of the country that showed Indian territories as their own.</p>

<p>During the talks, Oli&nbsp;greeted PM Modi on India's Independence day and congratulated him&nbsp;for India’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council" Indian readout said.</p>

<p>The Indian readout by the Ministry of External Affairs said, "Leaders expressed mutual solidarity" on the COVID-19 pandemic with Indian Prime Minister offering "continued support to Nepal in this regard.</p>

<p>Civilisational and cultural links that India and Nepal share were also highlighted by PM Modi. No talks on boder developments came during the conversation.</p>

<p>Earlier in this year, both leaders had spoken on the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p>The development comes two days before India and Nepal sit for talk on the New Delhi's development projects in the country. The "scheduled oversight mechanism" will see India being represented by its envoy in Kathmandu Vinay Mohan Kwatra and Nepal being represented by Foreign Secretary Shankar Das Bairagi.</p>

<p>Indian government sources said the meet is "part of regular interaction between India and Nepal" and the mechanism was set up in 2016 to "review ongoing bilateral economic and development projects, and meets on a periodic basis".</p>

<p>India has been assisting Nepal in development of border infrastructure through up-gradation of 10 roads in the Terai area, developing cross-border rail links at Jogbani-Biratnagar, Jaynagar-Bardibas and establishment of Integrated Check Posts at Birgunj, Biratnagar, Bhairahawa, and Nepalgunj.</p>

<p>The total economic assistance earmarked under ‘Aid to Nepal’ budget in FY 2019-20 was Rs 1,200 crore.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli had a conversation on Saturday -- in a first since Kathmandu brought about a new map of the country that showed Indian territories as their own.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli had a conversation on Saturday -- in a first since Kathmandu brought about a new map of the country that showed Indian territories as their own. During the talks, Oli greeted PM Modi on India's Independence day and congratulated him for India’s recent election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council" Indian readout said. The Indian readout by the Ministry of External Affairs said, "Leaders expressed mutual solidarity" on the COVID-19 pandemic with Indian Prime Minister offering "continued support to Nepal in this regard. Civilisational and cultural links that India and Nepal share were also highlighted by PM Modi. No talks on boder developments came during the conversation. Earlier in this year, both leaders had spoken on the coronavirus pandemic. The development comes two days before India and Nepal sit for talk on the New Delhi's development projects in the country. The "scheduled oversight mechanism" will see India being represented by its envoy in Kathmandu Vinay Mohan Kwatra and Nepal being represented by Foreign Secretary Shankar Das Bairagi. Indian government sources said the meet is "part of regular interaction between India and Nepal" and the mechanism was set up in 2016 to "review ongoing bilateral economic and development projects, and meets on a periodic basis". India has been assisting Nepal in development of border infrastructure through up-gradation of 10 roads in the Terai area, developing cross-border rail links at Jogbani-Biratnagar, Jaynagar-Bardibas and establishment of Integrated Check Posts at Birgunj, Biratnagar, Bhairahawa, and Nepalgunj. The total economic assistance earmarked under ‘Aid to Nepal’ budget in FY 2019-20 was Rs 1,200 crore.

PM Modi, Nepal prime minister talk for the first time since map controversy

PM Modi is delivering his seventh consecutive Independence Day speech at the Red Fort. PM said that Aatma Nirbhar Bharat or self-reliant India has become a mantra for 130 crore Indians and it would become a reality.

Indian PM Narendra Modi speech at Red Fort: "Self-reliant India is in the minds and heart of every Indian"

India is celebrating its 74th Independence Day with pomp and show. However, the celebrations come mixed with caution due to the novel coronavirus. Fewer guests are invited at the Red Fort and the Security personnel on duty will have to go under a 14-day quarantine.

India's 74th Independence Day celebrations mixed with caution: Fewer guests at Red Fort

On the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi is addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort. PM Modi said that the nation should not forget the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters. Watch video to know more.

Indian PM Narendra Modi addresses the nation at Red Fort: Must remember sacrifices made by our freedom fighters

On the occasion of India's 74th Independence Day, PM Modi is addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort. PM hailed the corona warriors and also said that the youth played an important role in the freedom struggle of our country".

Indian PM Narendra Modi address on India's 74th Independence Day | "Youth played important role in freedom struggle"

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday continued with the tradition of sporting bright-coloured turbans for his Independence Day speeches, and chose a saffron and cream headgear for the second I-Day address of his second term, and seventh consecutive address from the ramparts of the Red Fort.</p>

<p>The off-white saafa with broad streak of orange had a long tail, imparting the prime minister a royal look for the I-Day ceremony.</p>

<p>The prime minister paired the 'saafa' with a half-sleeve kurta and a fitted churidar. He also wore a white scarf with a saffron border that he used to cover his mouth and nose in view of the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-dedicates-74th-independence-day-address-to-corona-warriors-security-forces-320685"><strong>Also read | PM Modi dedicates 74th Independence Day address to corona warriors, security forces</strong></a></p>

<p>Last year, PM Modi sported a multi-coloured turban as he gave his sixth Independence Day speech after returning to power for a second term with a thumping majority.</p>

<p>For his maiden Independence Day in 2014, he had opted for a bright red Jodhpuri bandhej turban with green at the tail. In 2015, he chose a yellow turban covered with multi-coloured criss-cross lines, and a tie and dye turban in hues of pink and yellow in 2016.</p>

<p>The prime minister's turban for 2017 was a mix of bright red and yellow with criss-crossed golden lines all over. He donned a saffron turban for his appearance at the Red Fort in 2018.</p>

<p>From a bright red bandhani turban from Kutch to a mustard Rajasthani 'safa', Modi's eye-catching turbans have been a highlight of his Republic Day appearances too.</p>

<p>Known otherwise to witness a bustling crowd, the annual grand Independence Day event at the Red Fort was scaled down this year in keeping with prescribed safety protocols to contain the spread of COVID-19 that has wreaked havoc across the world.</p>

<p><em><strong>(with inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday continued with the tradition of sporting bright-coloured turbans for his Independence Day speeches, and chose a saffron and cream headgear for the second I-Day address of his second term, and seventh consecutive address from the ramparts of the Red Fort.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday continued with the tradition of sporting bright-coloured turbans for his Independence Day speeches, and chose a saffron and cream headgear for the second I-Day address of his second term, and seventh consecutive address from the ramparts of the Red Fort. The off-white saafa with broad streak of orange had a long tail, imparting the prime minister a royal look for the I-Day ceremony. The prime minister paired the 'saafa' with a half-sleeve kurta and a fitted churidar. He also wore a white scarf with a saffron border that he used to cover his mouth and nose in view of the coronavirus pandemic. Also read | PM Modi dedicates 74th Independence Day address to corona warriors, security forces Last year, PM Modi sported a multi-coloured turban as he gave his sixth Independence Day speech after returning to power for a second term with a thumping majority. For his maiden Independence Day in 2014, he had opted for a bright red Jodhpuri bandhej turban with green at the tail. In 2015, he chose a yellow turban covered with multi-coloured criss-cross lines, and a tie and dye turban in hues of pink and yellow in 2016. The prime minister's turban for 2017 was a mix of bright red and yellow with criss-crossed golden lines all over. He donned a saffron turban for his appearance at the Red Fort in 2018. From a bright red bandhani turban from Kutch to a mustard Rajasthani 'safa', Modi's eye-catching turbans have been a highlight of his Republic Day appearances too. Known otherwise to witness a bustling crowd, the annual grand Independence Day event at the Red Fort was scaled down this year in keeping with prescribed safety protocols to contain the spread of COVID-19 that has wreaked havoc across the world. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Modi continues 'saafa' tradition; sports a saffron and off-white headgear during I-Day address

<p>All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners.&nbsp;New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years. A peace deal between the three countries is good news for India.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
India may have had an indirect role to play.&nbsp;In 2014, while most of the world expressed their support for Palestine in the open and had under-the-table deals with Israel, India chose to walk a different path. It adopted a de-hyphenation policy between Israel and Palestine.</p>

<p>The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to balance its ties with Israel and Palestine and keep it independent of one another.</p>

<p>In 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. Just months before that he hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.</p>

<p>India's message to the world was: you need not choose between Israel and Palestine,&nbsp;diplomatic ties can be maintained with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause.</p>

<p>It was India pitching itself as a responsible global leader interested in peace. New Delhi never shied from making its point loud and clear. In 2017, India voted against recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital.</p>

<p>At the same time&nbsp;it pulled up Palestine when its ambassador to Pakistan was photographed sharing the&nbsp;stage with Hafiz Saeed.</p>

<p>India has also balanced ties between Israel and the other Gulf nations.&nbsp;New Delhi has steered clear of taking sides in sectarian politics. India's policy of de-hyphenation, and its diplomacy in West Asia as a whole has been balanced and independent. It has allowed global validation of India's diplomacy and the peace deal benefits Indian diaspora in the region.</p>

<p>At least 7 million Indians work in West Asia,&nbsp;they will benefit from regional stability. Flight services between Israel and UAE is a boon. As the two countries work out bilateral trade, it may also open new avenues for India&nbsp;as both UAE and Israel are India's strategic partners.</p>

<p>Also, better diplomatic environment in the Arab world is always good news for New Delhi&nbsp;given that India is home to the world's second-largest Muslim population.</p>


All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners. New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years.

All of the countries involved with Israel-UAE deal are India's strategic partners. New Delhi has grown closer to Israel, UAE and the United States in the last few years. A peace deal between the three countries is good news for India. India may have had an indirect role to play. In 2014, while most of the world expressed their support for Palestine in the open and had under-the-table deals with Israel, India chose to walk a different path. It adopted a de-hyphenation policy between Israel and Palestine. The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi chose to balance its ties with Israel and Palestine and keep it independent of one another. In 2017, PM Modi became the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel. Just months before that he hosted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. India's message to the world was: you need not choose between Israel and Palestine, diplomatic ties can be maintained with Israel while supporting the Palestinian cause. It was India pitching itself as a responsible global leader interested in peace. New Delhi never shied from making its point loud and clear. In 2017, India voted against recognising Jerusalem as Israel's capital. At the same time it pulled up Palestine when its ambassador to Pakistan was photographed sharing the stage with Hafiz Saeed. India has also balanced ties between Israel and the other Gulf nations. New Delhi has steered clear of taking sides in sectarian politics. India's policy of de-hyphenation, and its diplomacy in West Asia as a whole has been balanced and independent. It has allowed global validation of India's diplomacy and the peace deal benefits Indian diaspora in the region. At least 7 million Indians work in West Asia, they will benefit from regional stability. Flight services between Israel and UAE is a boon. As the two countries work out bilateral trade, it may also open new avenues for India as both UAE and Israel are India's strategic partners. Also, better diplomatic environment in the Arab world is always good news for New Delhi given that India is home to the world's second-largest Muslim population.

How India benefits from Israel-UAE peace deal

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi is now India's longest-serving non-Congress prime minister of the country.</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister also has the longest tenure as head of an elected government, amongst all the former PMs, which includes his chief ministerial term of more than 12 years.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-unveils-fundamental-reforms-for-taxpayers-faceless-appeals-to-start-from-september-25-320127">PM Modi unveils 'fundamental reforms' for taxpayers; faceless appeals to start from September 25</a></strong></p>

<p>BJP sources noted on Friday that Modi's total term, including prime ministerial and chief ministerial, is more than 18 years and 306 days. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/faceless-assessment-taxpayer-charter-has-come-into-force-from-today-pm-modi-320130">Faceless assessment, taxpayer charter has come into force from today: PM Modi</a></strong></p>

<p>India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru aces the list of longest tenure as PM as he served for 16 years and 286 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nehru's daughter, Indira Gandi is next in this list with a term of 15 years and 350 days. Both Gandhi and Nehru never became chief ministers of any Indian state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As far as the head of an elected government is concerned, West Bengal's Jyoti Basu and Pawan Kumar Chamling of Sikkim are ahead of Modi in this race.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, since Modi's term second term began last year, it is most likely that his longest-serving record is expected to strengthen.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi is now India's longest-serving non-Congress prime minister of the country. The Indian prime minister also has the longest tenure as head of an elected government, amongst all the former PMs, which includes his chief ministerial term of more than 12 years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is now India's longest-serving non-Congress prime minister of the country. The Indian prime minister also has the longest tenure as head of an elected government, amongst all the former PMs, which includes his chief ministerial term of more than 12 years. Also read | PM Modi unveils 'fundamental reforms' for taxpayers; faceless appeals to start from September 25 BJP sources noted on Friday that Modi's total term, including prime ministerial and chief ministerial, is more than 18 years and 306 days. Also read | Faceless assessment, taxpayer charter has come into force from today: PM Modi India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru aces the list of longest tenure as PM as he served for 16 years and 286 days. Nehru's daughter, Indira Gandi is next in this list with a term of 15 years and 350 days. Both Gandhi and Nehru never became chief ministers of any Indian state. As far as the head of an elected government is concerned, West Bengal's Jyoti Basu and Pawan Kumar Chamling of Sikkim are ahead of Modi in this race. Meanwhile, since Modi's term second term began last year, it is most likely that his longest-serving record is expected to strengthen.

Narendra Modi now longest-serving non-Congress prime minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced a number of Income Tax reforms to further digitise the tax-paying system and add more transparency.

What is Faceless tax assessment? Everything you need to know

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the platform for "Transparent Taxation - Honoring the Honest" via video conferencing on August 13, 2020.<br />
<br />
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has carried out several major tax reforms in direct taxes in recent years. Last year, the Corporate Tax rates were reduced from 30 per cent to 22 per cent and for new manufacturing units, the rates were reduced to 15 per cent.<br />
<br />
Dividend distribution tax was also abolished.The focus of the tax reforms has been on reduction in tax rates and on simplification of direct tax laws.Several initiatives have been taken by the CBDT for bringing in efficiency and transparency in the functioning of the IT Department.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="/india-news/all-those-who-came-in-contact-with-infected-person-should-be-traced-and-tested-within-72-hours-pm-modi-319756" hreflang="en">All those who came in contact with infected person should be traced and tested within 72 hours: PM Modi</a><br />
<br />
This includes bringing more transparency in official communication through the newly introduced Document Identification Number (DIN) wherein every communication of the Department would carry a computer generated unique document identification number.Similarly, to increase the ease of compliance for taxpayers, IT Department has moved forward with prefilling of income tax returns to make compliance more convenient for individual taxpayers.<br />
<br />
Compliance norms for startups have also been simplified.With a view to provide for resolution of pending tax disputes the IT Department also brought out the Direct Tax "Vivad se Vishwas Act, 2020" under which declarations for settling disputes are being filed currently.<br />
<br />
To effectively reduce taxpayer grievances / litigation, the monetary thresholds for filing of departmental appeals in various appellate Courts have been raised.Several measures have been taken to promote digital transactions and electronic modes of payment.<br />
<br />
The IT department is committed to take the initiatives forward and has also made efforts to ease compliances for taxpayers during the Covid times by extending statutory timeliness for filing returns as also releasing refunds expeditiously to increase liquidity in the hands of taxpayers.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="/india-news/covid-19-situation-in-india-pm-modi-holds-meet-with-chief-ministers-of-10-states-319681" hreflang="en">COVID-19 situation in India: PM Modi holds meet with chief ministers of 10 states</a><br />
<br />
The upcoming launch of the platform for " Transparent Taxation - Honoring the Honest " by the Prime Minister will further carry forward the journey of direct tax reforms.<br />
<br />
The event will be witnessed by various Chambers of Commerce, Trade Associations, Chartered Accountants` associations and also eminent taxpayers, apart from the officers and officials of Income Tax Department.<br />
<br />
Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman and Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs Anurag Singh Thakur will also present on the occasion.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the platform for "Transparent Taxation - Honoring the Honest" via video conferencing on August 13, 2020. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has carried out several major tax reforms in direct taxes in recent years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the platform for "Transparent Taxation - Honoring the Honest" via video conferencing on August 13, 2020. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has carried out several major tax reforms in direct taxes in recent years. Last year, the Corporate Tax rates were reduced from 30 per cent to 22 per cent and for new manufacturing units, the rates were reduced to 15 per cent. Dividend distribution tax was also abolished.The focus of the tax reforms has been on reduction in tax rates and on simplification of direct tax laws.Several initiatives have been taken by the CBDT for bringing in efficiency and transparency in the functioning of the IT Department. Also read: All those who came in contact with infected person should be traced and tested within 72 hours: PM Modi This includes bringing more transparency in official communication through the newly introduced Document Identification Number (DIN) wherein every communication of the Department would carry a computer generated unique document identification number.Similarly, to increase the ease of compliance for taxpayers, IT Department has moved forward with prefilling of income tax returns to make compliance more convenient for individual taxpayers. Compliance norms for startups have also been simplified.With a view to provide for resolution of pending tax disputes the IT Department also brought out the Direct Tax "Vivad se Vishwas Act, 2020" under which declarations for settling disputes are being filed currently. To effectively reduce taxpayer grievances / litigation, the monetary thresholds for filing of departmental appeals in various appellate Courts have been raised.Several measures have been taken to promote digital transactions and electronic modes of payment. The IT department is committed to take the initiatives forward and has also made efforts to ease compliances for taxpayers during the Covid times by extending statutory timeliness for filing returns as also releasing refunds expeditiously to increase liquidity in the hands of taxpayers. Also read: COVID-19 situation in India: PM Modi holds meet with chief ministers of 10 states The upcoming launch of the platform for " Transparent Taxation - Honoring the Honest " by the Prime Minister will further carry forward the journey of direct tax reforms. The event will be witnessed by various Chambers of Commerce, Trade Associations, Chartered Accountants` associations and also eminent taxpayers, apart from the officers and officials of Income Tax Department. Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman and Minister of State for Finance and Corporate Affairs Anurag Singh Thakur will also present on the occasion.

PM Modi to launch platform for 'Transparent Taxation' on August 13

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday noted that 10 states account for 80 per cent of active COVID-19 cases, and asserted if the virus is defeated in these states, then the country will also emerge victorious in its fight against the pandemic.</p>

<p>At a video conference with chief ministers and representatives of these 10 states, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, Modi said the recovery rate has gone up which, he added, meant that government efforts have proved to be effective.</p>

<p>The Centre and states have been able to work as a team in the fight against COVID-19, he said.</p>

<p>"Our experience so far is that containment, contact tracing and surveillance are the most effective weapons against the pandemic, with experts of the view that if cases are identified within 72 hours of onset, then infection slows down to great extent," the prime minister said.</p>

<p>He emphasised on the need to trace and test all those who come in contact with an infected person within 72 hours. This should be followed like a "mantra", with the same earnestness as washing hands, maintaining social distance and wearing masks, he said according to an official statement.</p>

<p>The prime minister pointed out that the number of active cases in the country stands at over six lakh, and most of them have been reported from the 10 states.</p>

<p>Today, 80 per cent active cases are in these ten states. Hence the role of all these states is very big in the fight against coronavirus, he said.</p>

<p>He told the participants that such meetings and discussions are necessary as new situations are emerging amid the pandemic.</p>

<p>"Pressure on hospitals, pressure on our health workers, lack of continuity in everyday work. They bring a new challenge every day" Modi elaborated.</p>

<p>He said there was a need for the ten states to sit together, review and discuss. "... From this discussion, we also leant a lot from each other's experiences, best practices" he said.</p>

<p>Modi said it was a matter of satisfaction that the average fatality rate in India has been going down and noted that it has been very low compared to the world average.</p>

<p>He noted that the number of daily tests has reached almost 7 lakh and is increasing continuously, which has helped in early identification and containment. The average fatality rate in the country is amongst the lowest and is continuously going down.</p>

<p>The percentage of active cases is reducing, while the recovery rate is increasing, he said. He noted that these steps have boosted the confidence of people, and said that the target of bringing down the fatality rate below one per cent can be achieved soon.</p>

<p>States where testing rate is low and where the positivity rate is high, the need to increase testing has come to the fore. Especially in states like Bihar, Gujarat, UP, West Bengal and Telangana, he said.</p>

<p>Modi noted that people have become aware and are ably assisting these efforts, as a result of which the country has been successful in using home quarantine so effectively, the statement said.</p>

<p>He said at one point of time, cases in certain districts of UP and Haryana, and Delhi became a matter of concern.</p>

<p>He also referred to statement of the Delhi government about COVID-19 cases and recounted the experience of Home Minister Amit Shah in preparing a roadmap for tackling the pandemic together with Delhi and nearby states.</p>

<p>According the statement, he said the main pillars of this strategy were segregation of containment zones and focus on screening, especially of those in high risk category.</p>

<p>The results of these steps are there for all to see, he said, adding that steps like better management in hospitals and increasing ICU beds also proved very helpful.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday noted that 10 states account for 80 per cent of active COVID-19 cases, and asserted if the virus is defeated in these states, then the country will also emerge victorious in its fight against the pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday noted that 10 states account for 80 per cent of active COVID-19 cases, and asserted if the virus is defeated in these states, then the country will also emerge victorious in its fight against the pandemic. At a video conference with chief ministers and representatives of these 10 states, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu, Modi said the recovery rate has gone up which, he added, meant that government efforts have proved to be effective. The Centre and states have been able to work as a team in the fight against COVID-19, he said. "Our experience so far is that containment, contact tracing and surveillance are the most effective weapons against the pandemic, with experts of the view that if cases are identified within 72 hours of onset, then infection slows down to great extent," the prime minister said. He emphasised on the need to trace and test all those who come in contact with an infected person within 72 hours. This should be followed like a "mantra", with the same earnestness as washing hands, maintaining social distance and wearing masks, he said according to an official statement. The prime minister pointed out that the number of active cases in the country stands at over six lakh, and most of them have been reported from the 10 states. Today, 80 per cent active cases are in these ten states. Hence the role of all these states is very big in the fight against coronavirus, he said. He told the participants that such meetings and discussions are necessary as new situations are emerging amid the pandemic. "Pressure on hospitals, pressure on our health workers, lack of continuity in everyday work. They bring a new challenge every day" Modi elaborated. He said there was a need for the ten states to sit together, review and discuss. "... From this discussion, we also leant a lot from each other's experiences, best practices" he said. Modi said it was a matter of satisfaction that the average fatality rate in India has been going down and noted that it has been very low compared to the world average. He noted that the number of daily tests has reached almost 7 lakh and is increasing continuously, which has helped in early identification and containment. The average fatality rate in the country is amongst the lowest and is continuously going down. The percentage of active cases is reducing, while the recovery rate is increasing, he said. He noted that these steps have boosted the confidence of people, and said that the target of bringing down the fatality rate below one per cent can be achieved soon. States where testing rate is low and where the positivity rate is high, the need to increase testing has come to the fore. Especially in states like Bihar, Gujarat, UP, West Bengal and Telangana, he said. Modi noted that people have become aware and are ably assisting these efforts, as a result of which the country has been successful in using home quarantine so effectively, the statement said. He said at one point of time, cases in certain districts of UP and Haryana, and Delhi became a matter of concern. He also referred to statement of the Delhi government about COVID-19 cases and recounted the experience of Home Minister Amit Shah in preparing a roadmap for tackling the pandemic together with Delhi and nearby states. According the statement, he said the main pillars of this strategy were segregation of containment zones and focus on screening, especially of those in high risk category. The results of these steps are there for all to see, he said, adding that steps like better management in hospitals and increasing ICU beds also proved very helpful.

All those who came in contact with infected person should be traced and tested within 72 hours: PM Modi

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