Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, as he and his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz joined hands to form a coalition government, ending months of political uncertainty in the country.

"Mazel Tov (congratulations) my friend @netanyahu for forming your fifth government in Israel," PM Modi wrote on Twitter in Hebrew and English.

"I wish you and @gantzbe (Benny Gantz) success and look forward to continue working closely with your government to further strengthen India-Israel strategic partnership," the prime minister said.

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Mazel Tov my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@netanyahu</a> for forming your fifth government in Israel. I wish you and <a href="https://twitter.com/gantzbe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gantzbe</a> success and look forward to continue working closely with your government to further strengthen India-Israel strategic partnership.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1262025037349105665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Netanyahu on Sunday announced that a new government led by him would be sworn-in with a pledge of Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank to write another glorified chapter in the history of Zionism.

On Wednesday, Netanyahu announced that he has succeeded in forming a unity government in letters sent to President Reuven Rivlin, and Blue and White party Chairman Benny Gantz, who was temporarily serving as the speaker of Knesset (Israeli Parliament).

The government was to be sworn-in on Thursday but internal squabbles in the ruling Likud party over ministerial claims postponed it.

The new government, which according to the coalition agreement, will see Gantz replace Netanyahu as Prime Minister after 18 months on November 17, 2021, as the per power-sharing deal.

Netanyahu would then acquire the title of "Alternate Prime Minister", something that Gantz would now enjoy while also being the Defence Minister.

The government with 32 ministers initially will swell to 36 in six months, making it the largest government in the Jewish state's history.

Prominent ministerial appointments include Gabi Ashkenazi (Blue and White party) as foreign minister, Israel Katz (Likud) as finance minister, Avi Nissenkorn (Blue and White party) as Justice minister and Likud Yuli Edelstein (Likud) as health minister.

Netanyahu's close confidante Amir Ohana, currently serving as interim Justice Minister, is expected to receive the public security portfolio, which oversees law enforcement.

During his tenure as justice minister, Ohana repeatedly attacked the judiciary and those leading it as they pushed forward with criminal investigations, and eventually indictments, against Netanyahu.

Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing and his trial is set to start later this month. 
Ohana's possible appointment as public security minister has sparked speculation among top police officials that he may oppose possible new probes against Netanyahu.

The beleaguered Israeli Prime Minister managed to hold on to his right-wing bloc amid three inconclusive polls to force his main rival Gantz to finally succumb to the demand of a broad national unity government.

(with inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, as he and his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz joined hands to form a coalition government, ending months of political uncertainty in the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, as he and his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz joined hands to form a coalition government, ending months of political uncertainty in the country. "Mazel Tov (congratulations) my friend @netanyahu for forming your fifth government in Israel," PM Modi wrote on Twitter in Hebrew and English. "I wish you and @gantzbe (Benny Gantz) success and look forward to continue working closely with your government to further strengthen India-Israel strategic partnership," the prime minister said. Mazel Tov my friend @netanyahu for forming your fifth government in Israel. I wish you and @gantzbe success and look forward to continue working closely with your government to further strengthen India-Israel strategic partnership. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 17, 2020 × Netanyahu on Sunday announced that a new government led by him would be sworn-in with a pledge of Israeli sovereignty over the West Bank to write another glorified chapter in the history of Zionism. On Wednesday, Netanyahu announced that he has succeeded in forming a unity government in letters sent to President Reuven Rivlin, and Blue and White party Chairman Benny Gantz, who was temporarily serving as the speaker of Knesset (Israeli Parliament). The government was to be sworn-in on Thursday but internal squabbles in the ruling Likud party over ministerial claims postponed it. The new government, which according to the coalition agreement, will see Gantz replace Netanyahu as Prime Minister after 18 months on November 17, 2021, as the per power-sharing deal. Netanyahu would then acquire the title of "Alternate Prime Minister", something that Gantz would now enjoy while also being the Defence Minister. The government with 32 ministers initially will swell to 36 in six months, making it the largest government in the Jewish state's history. Prominent ministerial appointments include Gabi Ashkenazi (Blue and White party) as foreign minister, Israel Katz (Likud) as finance minister, Avi Nissenkorn (Blue and White party) as Justice minister and Likud Yuli Edelstein (Likud) as health minister. Netanyahu's close confidante Amir Ohana, currently serving as interim Justice Minister, is expected to receive the public security portfolio, which oversees law enforcement. During his tenure as justice minister, Ohana repeatedly attacked the judiciary and those leading it as they pushed forward with criminal investigations, and eventually indictments, against Netanyahu. Netanyahu has denied any wrongdoing and his trial is set to start later this month. Ohana's possible appointment as public security minister has sparked speculation among top police officials that he may oppose possible new probes against Netanyahu. The beleaguered Israeli Prime Minister managed to hold on to his right-wing bloc amid three inconclusive polls to force his main rival Gantz to finally succumb to the demand of a broad national unity government. (with inputs from agencies)

PM Modi congratulates Netanyahu as new Israeli government is formed

United States of America will donate ventilators to India in battle against pandemic Coronavirus. US President Trump said that India, US will beat this invisible enemy together.

US to donate ventilators to India in battle against pandemic Coronavirus

With the governments imposing large-scale restrictions on economic activities to halt the spread of coronavirus, the global economy has come to a virtual standstill. A report by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs has projected that the world economy is set to lose nearly $8.5 trillion over the next 2 years.

UN Predicts slowing down of India’s growth

India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said today that the financial package announced by PM Modi during his televised address to the nation on Tuesday is meant to spur "growth and build a self-reliant India"&nbsp;as part of "Atmanirbhar Bharat"..&nbsp;

Five pillars of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" include - economy, infrastructure, system, demography and demand, India's finance minister said.

"Self reliant India does not mean cutting off from rest of the world," Sitharaman said&nbsp;while giving details of Rs 20 lakh crore stimulus package.

"We shall not forget that we do have a responsibility towards the poor, needy, the migrant&nbsp;workers,&nbsp;and the aged," the finance minister added.

Major announcements:

-Rs 3 lakh crores collateral-free automatic loans for businesses, including SMEs.&nbsp;

-Borrowers with up Rs 25 crore outstanding and Rs 100 crore turnover are eligible.&nbsp;

-Collateral free automatic loans to MSMEs worth Rs 3 lakh crore. It will have a 4-year tenure&nbsp;valid up to October, 2020.

-Collateral free loan to be provided to SMEs with 12-month moratorium; 45 lakh units to benefit, the finance minister said while unveiling parts of the economic package.

-Rs 20,000 crore subordinate debt will be provided to&nbsp;stressed MSMEs, which is set to&nbsp;benefit 2 lakh businesses.

-Rs 50,000 crore equity infusion through MSME Fund of Funds&nbsp;to provide support to growth potential MSMEs.

-Sitharaman announced Rs 30,000 crore liquidity facility for NBFCs, housing finance companies and MFIs.

-Rs 45,000 crore liquidity to be infused in NBFCs through partial credit guarantee scheme.

For Taxpayers:

-Rs 18,000 cr refunds given to taxpayers; 14 lakh taxpayers benefit from the clearing of refund dues.

-The government also extended the due date for all income tax returns to November 30.

-Statutory PF contribution by employer reduced to 10 per cent from 12 per cent earlier to provide Rs 6,750 crore liquidity relief.

Businesses &amp; workers:&nbsp;

-To ease financial stress as businesses get back to work, the government has decided to continue EPF support for business &amp; workers for three more months providing a liquidity relief of Rs 2,500 crores.

-TDS, TCS rate for non-salaried payments for period up to March 31, 2021 cut by 25 per cent in order to release Rs 50,000 crore.

Infrastructure:&nbsp;

-With electricity distribution companies facing a serious crisis, the government announced emergency liquidity infusion of Rs 90,000 crore in discoms.

India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said today that the financial package announced by PM Modi during his televised address to the nation on Tuesday is meant to spur "growth and build a self-reliant India" as part of "Atmanirbhar Bharat".

India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said today that the financial package announced by PM Modi during his televised address to the nation on Tuesday is meant to spur "growth and build a self-reliant India" as part of "Atmanirbhar Bharat".. Five pillars of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" include - economy, infrastructure, system, demography and demand, India's finance minister said. "Self reliant India does not mean cutting off from rest of the world," Sitharaman said while giving details of Rs 20 lakh crore stimulus package. "We shall not forget that we do have a responsibility towards the poor, needy, the migrant workers, and the aged," the finance minister added. Major announcements: -Rs 3 lakh crores collateral-free automatic loans for businesses, including SMEs. -Borrowers with up Rs 25 crore outstanding and Rs 100 crore turnover are eligible. -Collateral free automatic loans to MSMEs worth Rs 3 lakh crore. It will have a 4-year tenure valid up to October, 2020. -Collateral free loan to be provided to SMEs with 12-month moratorium; 45 lakh units to benefit, the finance minister said while unveiling parts of the economic package. -Rs 20,000 crore subordinate debt will be provided to stressed MSMEs, which is set to benefit 2 lakh businesses. -Rs 50,000 crore equity infusion through MSME Fund of Funds to provide support to growth potential MSMEs. -Sitharaman announced Rs 30,000 crore liquidity facility for NBFCs, housing finance companies and MFIs. -Rs 45,000 crore liquidity to be infused in NBFCs through partial credit guarantee scheme. For Taxpayers: -Rs 18,000 cr refunds given to taxpayers; 14 lakh taxpayers benefit from the clearing of refund dues. -The government also extended the due date for all income tax returns to November 30. -Statutory PF contribution by employer reduced to 10 per cent from 12 per cent earlier to provide Rs 6,750 crore liquidity relief. Businesses & workers: -To ease financial stress as businesses get back to work, the government has decided to continue EPF support for business & workers for three more months providing a liquidity relief of Rs 2,500 crores. -TDS, TCS rate for non-salaried payments for period up to March 31, 2021 cut by 25 per cent in order to release Rs 50,000 crore. Infrastructure: -With electricity distribution companies facing a serious crisis, the government announced emergency liquidity infusion of Rs 90,000 crore in discoms.

Government's financial package: Big relief for MSMEs, Indian taxpayers

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 12 addressed the nation and highlighted the importance of local products and local manufacturing for a self-reliant India, Home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday appealed people to use products made in India and ordered all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) canteens to sell only indigenous products.

"I also appeal to the people of the country to make maximum use of the products made in the country and encourage others to do the same. If every Indian pledges to use products made in India (Swadeshi), the democracy of the country can become self-sufficient in five years," Shah said on Twitter.

"Yesterday, PM Modi had appealed to encourage local products &amp; make India self-reliant. In this direction Ministry of Home Affairs has decided that only indigenous products will be sold at all CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) canteens from June 1 2020," said Home Minister Amit Shah.

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इसी दिशा में आज गृह मंत्रालय ने यह निर्णय लिया है कि सभी केंद्रीय सशस्त्र पुलिस बलों (CAPF) की कैंटीनों पर अब सिर्फ स्वदेशी उत्पादों की ही बिक्री होगी। 01 जून 2020 से देशभर की सभी CAPF कैंटीनों पर यह लागू होगा। इससे लगभग 10 लाख CAPF कर्मियों के 50 लाख परिजन स्वदेशी उपयोग करेंगे।
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1260472526632882178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Referring to Modi's appeal Home Minister Amit Shah said this will surely pave the way for India to lead the world in future.

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कल माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> जी ने देश को आत्मनिर्भर बनाने और लोकल प्रोडक्ट्स (भारत में बने उत्पाद) उपयोग करने की एक अपील की जो निश्चित रूप से आने वाले समय में भारत को विश्व का नेतृत्व करने का मार्ग प्रशस्त करेगी। <a href="https://t.co/KlYD9Z7UVt">pic.twitter.com/KlYD9Z7UVt</a>
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1260472519347310595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Shah said that the decision was in line with PM Modi's call for making India self-reliant and promoting local products.

He also appealed to the people "to make maximum use of the indigenous products and encourage others to do the same."

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 12 addressed the nation and highlighted the importance of local products and local manufacturing for a self-reliant India, Home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday appealed people to use products made in India and ordered all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) canteens to sell only indigenous products.

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 12 addressed the nation and highlighted the importance of local products and local manufacturing for a self-reliant India, Home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday appealed people to use products made in India and ordered all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) canteens to sell only indigenous products. "I also appeal to the people of the country to make maximum use of the products made in the country and encourage others to do the same. If every Indian pledges to use products made in India (Swadeshi), the democracy of the country can become self-sufficient in five years," Shah said on Twitter. "Yesterday, PM Modi had appealed to encourage local products & make India self-reliant. In this direction Ministry of Home Affairs has decided that only indigenous products will be sold at all CAPF (Central Armed Police Forces) canteens from June 1 2020," said Home Minister Amit Shah. इसी दिशा में आज गृह मंत्रालय ने यह निर्णय लिया है कि सभी केंद्रीय सशस्त्र पुलिस बलों (CAPF) की कैंटीनों पर अब सिर्फ स्वदेशी उत्पादों की ही बिक्री होगी। 01 जून 2020 से देशभर की सभी CAPF कैंटीनों पर यह लागू होगा। इससे लगभग 10 लाख CAPF कर्मियों के 50 लाख परिजन स्वदेशी उपयोग करेंगे। — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 13, 2020 × Referring to Modi's appeal Home Minister Amit Shah said this will surely pave the way for India to lead the world in future. कल माननीय प्रधानमंत्री श्री @narendramodi जी ने देश को आत्मनिर्भर बनाने और लोकल प्रोडक्ट्स (भारत में बने उत्पाद) उपयोग करने की एक अपील की जो निश्चित रूप से आने वाले समय में भारत को विश्व का नेतृत्व करने का मार्ग प्रशस्त करेगी। pic.twitter.com/KlYD9Z7UVt — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) May 13, 2020 × Shah said that the decision was in line with PM Modi's call for making India self-reliant and promoting local products. He also appealed to the people "to make maximum use of the indigenous products and encourage others to do the same."

Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) canteens to sell only indigenous products from June 1

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a mega economic stimulus package. India willl be pumping $300 Billion to fight the Coronavirus and offset its impact.

Coronavirus: India announces mega stimulus package | Gravitas

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address nation today at 8 pm. PM Modi just tweeted from his official twitter handle. India is currently under its 3rd phase of lockdown which will end on17th of May. According to sources, PM Modi could further announce the extension of the lockdown phase 4.

PM Modi to address nation tonight at 8 pm

The Punjab government has announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs. 50 lakh to the kin of the deceased coronavirus victims.

The compensation will be provided only to the&nbsp;legal heirs of state employees who lost their lives to the coronavirus while performing official duty.

It will will&nbsp;remain in force from April 1, 2020, to July 31, 2020, subject to review thereafter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-jet-crashes-in-punjab-pilot-ejects-safely-297374">Also read:&nbsp;Indian Air Force jet crashes in Punjab; pilot ejects safely</a>

The compensation was announced through a statement released by the Punjab government on Sunday.

&nbsp;"The ex-gratia shall be admissible only where the employee is involved directly in the state`s fight to control the spread of coronavirus -- the employees on duty at COVID hospitals/critical care centres, drivers transporting citizens of the state from other states/COVID patients/suspects etc, ration distribution, curfew/lockdown implementation," the release read.

The ex-gratia will be admissible to all employees covered under the old pension scheme and those recruited on and after January 1, 2004, and covered under the New Pension Scheme (NPS). The spokesperson said the cases of providing monetary relief to the dependants of manpower working on contract or through outsourcing, will be considered under the provisions of the Chief Minister's Relief Fund.

Punjab has recorded 1,762 COVID-19 cases, including 31 deaths. The state is now hoping to be able to ease some lockdown restrictions.

(With inputs from ANI)

The Punjab government has announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs. 50 lakh to the kin of the deceased coronavirus victims. The compensation will be provided only to the legal heirs of state employees who lost their lives to the coronavirus while performing official duty.

The Punjab government has announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs. 50 lakh to the kin of the deceased coronavirus victims. The compensation will be provided only to the legal heirs of state employees who lost their lives to the coronavirus while performing official duty. It will will remain in force from April 1, 2020, to July 31, 2020, subject to review thereafter. Also read: Indian Air Force jet crashes in Punjab; pilot ejects safely The compensation was announced through a statement released by the Punjab government on Sunday. "The ex-gratia shall be admissible only where the employee is involved directly in the state`s fight to control the spread of coronavirus -- the employees on duty at COVID hospitals/critical care centres, drivers transporting citizens of the state from other states/COVID patients/suspects etc, ration distribution, curfew/lockdown implementation," the release read. The ex-gratia will be admissible to all employees covered under the old pension scheme and those recruited on and after January 1, 2004, and covered under the New Pension Scheme (NPS). The spokesperson said the cases of providing monetary relief to the dependants of manpower working on contract or through outsourcing, will be considered under the provisions of the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. Punjab has recorded 1,762 COVID-19 cases, including 31 deaths. The state is now hoping to be able to ease some lockdown restrictions. (With inputs from ANI)

On National Technology Day, PM Modi lauds those at forefront of research to defeat COVID-19

PM Modi to discuss COVID-19 crisis with CM's at 3 pm via Video-conferencing India is currently under its third phase of lockdown that will going to end on May 17th, but prior that, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi to hold meeting with Chief Ministers of Different states to discuss current situation of the pandemic.

PM Modi to discuss COVID-19 crisis with CM's at 3 pm via Video-conferencing

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the Buddha Purnima celebrations on Thursday, May 7. In a tweet by PMO, it was revealed that the PM will&nbsp;deliver a keynote address in the morning.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> shall be participating a Buddha Purnima programme tomorrow via technology. 
 
The programme is being organised in honour of the Victims and frontline warriors of COVID-19. <a href="https://t.co/G6Mccn4bMP">https://t.co/G6Mccn4bMP</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1258064700123693061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The virtual celebrations are being organised by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-hikes-taxes-on-petrol-diesel-amid-coronavirus-crisis-296946">Also read:&nbsp;India hikes taxes on petrol, diesel amid coronavirus crisis</a>

The event will be attended by all the supreme heads of the Buddhist Sanghas from around the world. Minister of Culture and Minister of Tourism Prahlad Singh Patel and Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Youth Affairs &amp; Sports Kiren Rijiju will also be present.

This will be conducted in honour of all the frontline workers and victims of coronavirus.

Prayer ceremonies will be live streamed&nbsp;from the Sacred Garden Lumbini in Nepal, Mahabodhi Temple in Bihar's Bodhgaya, Mulgandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath, Parinirvana Stupa in Kushinagar, Pirith Chanting from Ruwanweli Maha Seya in the sacred and historic Anuradhapura stupa premises, Sri Lanka, Boudhanath, Swayambhu, Namo Stupa in Nepal apart from other popular Buddhist sites.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the Buddha Purnima celebrations on Thursday, May 7. In a tweet by PMO, it was revealed that the PM will deliver a keynote address in the morning.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the Buddha Purnima celebrations on Thursday, May 7. In a tweet by PMO, it was revealed that the PM will deliver a keynote address in the morning. PM @narendramodi shall be participating a Buddha Purnima programme tomorrow via technology. The programme is being organised in honour of the Victims and frontline warriors of COVID-19. https://t.co/G6Mccn4bMP — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 6, 2020 × The virtual celebrations are being organised by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). Also read: India hikes taxes on petrol, diesel amid coronavirus crisis The event will be attended by all the supreme heads of the Buddhist Sanghas from around the world. Minister of Culture and Minister of Tourism Prahlad Singh Patel and Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Youth Affairs & Sports Kiren Rijiju will also be present. This will be conducted in honour of all the frontline workers and victims of coronavirus. Prayer ceremonies will be live streamed from the Sacred Garden Lumbini in Nepal, Mahabodhi Temple in Bihar's Bodhgaya, Mulgandha Kuti Vihara in Sarnath, Parinirvana Stupa in Kushinagar, Pirith Chanting from Ruwanweli Maha Seya in the sacred and historic Anuradhapura stupa premises, Sri Lanka, Boudhanath, Swayambhu, Namo Stupa in Nepal apart from other popular Buddhist sites.

PM Modi to attend Buddha Purnima celebrations, will address nation

PM Narendra Modi on Monday said the novel coronavirus outbreak has exposed the limitations of the current global order and, after the pandemic, the world will need a new template of globalisation.

PM Modi NAM Summit: 'Need a new template for the world'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a video conference meeting of the non-alignment movement (NAM) on the COVID-19 crisis. Watch his addressing the meet.

Indian PM addresses NAM virtual summit on COVID-19 Pandemic: The whole world is one family

In a significant development, Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will participate in a video conference meeting of non-alignment movement (NAM) on COVID crisis.

PM Modi to participate in NAM virtual summit on Monday

In a significant development, Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will participate in a video conference meeting of non-alignment movement (NAM) on COVID crisis. The meeting that will happen in at around 4.30 pm IST will see External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also present.&nbsp;

This is the first time PM Modi is taking part in a NAM meeting since taking 2014 when he first became the Prime Minister. The last time any Indian PM participated at Tehran NAM meet was 2012 with the then PM Manmohan Singh was present.&nbsp;

Both in 2016, 2018 summits of NAM, India was represented at Vice President level. The last NAM Summit happened in 2019 in Azerbaijan, before that it was 2016 in Venezuela.

Azerbaijan is the president of the grouping from 2019-2022 and the meet is being organised under the leadership of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. The title of the summit is "We stand together against COVID-19".&nbsp;

"We hope that the Non-Aligned Movement Contact Group's Summit will make a significant contribution to the mobilization of NAM member states in the fight against coronavirus, strengthening of solidarity and multilateralism," Hikmat Hajiyev, Head of the Department for Foreign Policy Affairs of Azerbaijan’s Presidential Administration said as quoted by Azerbaijan State News Agency or azertac.

The meet on COVID comes even as other multilateral groupings like G20, BRICS and regional groupings like SAARC are having video conferences to come out with a coordinated approach on the pandemic. &nbsp;

Non-Aligned Movement is an idea that emerged in 1950 and the initiative was led by the then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser and Present of erstwhile Yugoslav Josip Broz Tito.&nbsp;

NAM is the second-largest platform globally in terms of country membership after the UN. While it currently has 120 member states, 17 states which are observers in the last few years the grouping has lost the main rationale of the existence of remaining equidistant to 2 powers—US and the Soviet Union, after the disintegration of the latter.

In a significant development, Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi will participate in a video conference meeting of non-alignment movement (NAM) on COVID crisis. The meeting that will happen in at around 4.30 pm IST will see External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also present. This is the first time PM Modi is taking part in a NAM meeting since taking 2014 when he first became the Prime Minister. The last time any Indian PM participated at Tehran NAM meet was 2012 with the then PM Manmohan Singh was present. Both in 2016, 2018 summits of NAM, India was represented at Vice President level. The last NAM Summit happened in 2019 in Azerbaijan, before that it was 2016 in Venezuela. Azerbaijan is the president of the grouping from 2019-2022 and the meet is being organised under the leadership of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev. The title of the summit is "We stand together against COVID-19". "We hope that the Non-Aligned Movement Contact Group's Summit will make a significant contribution to the mobilization of NAM member states in the fight against coronavirus, strengthening of solidarity and multilateralism," Hikmat Hajiyev, Head of the Department for Foreign Policy Affairs of Azerbaijan’s Presidential Administration said as quoted by Azerbaijan State News Agency or azertac. The meet on COVID comes even as other multilateral groupings like G20, BRICS and regional groupings like SAARC are having video conferences to come out with a coordinated approach on the pandemic. Non-Aligned Movement is an idea that emerged in 1950 and the initiative was led by the then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser and Present of erstwhile Yugoslav Josip Broz Tito. NAM is the second-largest platform globally in terms of country membership after the UN. While it currently has 120 member states, 17 states which are observers in the last few years the grouping has lost the main rationale of the existence of remaining equidistant to 2 powers—US and the Soviet Union, after the disintegration of the latter.

In a first, PM Modi to participate in Non-Aligned Movement meet today

NAM virtual summit at COVID-19 today: PM Modi's debut at non-alignment movement

Non-Aligned Movement to call for unity against COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indian Air Force which carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns, showering flower petals on leading hospitals.

The exercise was carried out&nbsp;to pay gratitude to the front-line workers engaged in the battle against COVID-19.

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Saluting those who are at the forefront, bravely fighting COVID-19. 
 
Great gesture by our armed forces. <a href="https://t.co/C5qtQqKxmA">pic.twitter.com/C5qtQqKxmA</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1256891923047936000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Saluting those who are at the forefront, bravely fighting COVID-19. Great gesture by our armed forces," Modi tweeted.

The prime minister also posted a short video of military aircraft, choppers and bands engaged in expressing gratitude to the health professionals and others.

Fighter jets and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force on Sunday carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns, while military choppers showered petals on leading hospitals across the country as part of a mega exercise to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics and other front-line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indian Air Force which carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns, showering flower petals on leading hospitals. The exercise was carried out to pay gratitude to the front-line workers engaged in the battle against COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indian Air Force which carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns, showering flower petals on leading hospitals. The exercise was carried out to pay gratitude to the front-line workers engaged in the battle against COVID-19. Saluting those who are at the forefront, bravely fighting COVID-19. Great gesture by our armed forces. pic.twitter.com/C5qtQqKxmA — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 3, 2020 × "Saluting those who are at the forefront, bravely fighting COVID-19. Great gesture by our armed forces," Modi tweeted. The prime minister also posted a short video of military aircraft, choppers and bands engaged in expressing gratitude to the health professionals and others. Fighter jets and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force on Sunday carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns, while military choppers showered petals on leading hospitals across the country as part of a mega exercise to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics and other front-line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic.

Modi hails 'great gesture' of armed forces saluting corona warriors

During United States President Donald Trump's visit to India in the last week of February, the official Twitter handle of the White House -- @WhiteHouse -- had started 'following' the accounts of President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister's office, the Indian Embassy in the US, the US Embassy in India and the US Ambassador to India, Ken Juster.

This week, the White House 'unfollowed' all these six Twitter handles, creating confusion among the Twitterverse, and the world.

To this end, the White House explained its reason of doing so.

The White House said its Twitter handle typically 'follows' the accounts of officials from host countries for a brief period during a presidential trip to retweet their messages in support of the visit.

"The White House Twitter account normally follows senior US government Twitter accounts, and others as appropriate. For example, during the time of a presidential visit, the account typically follows for a short time, the host country's officials to retweet their messages in support of the visit," a senior administration official told PTI.

The White House 'unfollowing' the Twitter accounts of President Kovind and PM Modi drew reactions on social media in India.

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he was "dismayed" at the development. 
"I'm dismayed by the "unfollowing" of our President &amp; PM by the White House. I urge the Ministry of External Affairs to take note," he said in a tweet on Wednesday.

As of Wednesday, the White House had 22 million followers.

It has traditionally been following 13 accounts including that of President Donald Trump and his official Twitter handle, the First Lady, the Vice President, the Second Lady, the new Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany, the National Security Council and the former White House Press Secretary, Stephanie Grisham, among others.

During United States President Donald Trump's visit to India in the last week of February, the official Twitter handle of the White House -- @WhiteHouse -- had started 'following' the accounts of President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister's office, the Indian Embassy in the US, the US Embassy in India and the US Ambassador to India, Ken Juster.

During United States President Donald Trump's visit to India in the last week of February, the official Twitter handle of the White House -- @WhiteHouse -- had started 'following' the accounts of President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister's office, the Indian Embassy in the US, the US Embassy in India and the US Ambassador to India, Ken Juster. This week, the White House 'unfollowed' all these six Twitter handles, creating confusion among the Twitterverse, and the world. To this end, the White House explained its reason of doing so. The White House said its Twitter handle typically 'follows' the accounts of officials from host countries for a brief period during a presidential trip to retweet their messages in support of the visit. "The White House Twitter account normally follows senior US government Twitter accounts, and others as appropriate. For example, during the time of a presidential visit, the account typically follows for a short time, the host country's officials to retweet their messages in support of the visit," a senior administration official told PTI. The White House 'unfollowing' the Twitter accounts of President Kovind and PM Modi drew reactions on social media in India. Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said he was "dismayed" at the development. "I'm dismayed by the "unfollowing" of our President & PM by the White House. I urge the Ministry of External Affairs to take note," he said in a tweet on Wednesday. As of Wednesday, the White House had 22 million followers. It has traditionally been following 13 accounts including that of President Donald Trump and his official Twitter handle, the First Lady, the Vice President, the Second Lady, the new Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany, the National Security Council and the former White House Press Secretary, Stephanie Grisham, among others.

White House briefly follows Twitter accounts of host country during presidential visit, clarifies official

India enters in the last week of nationwide lockdown. PM Modi talks with CMs via video conferencing and reviews the current situation. PM also discuss about the next strategy of lockdown.

Will India extend the Lockdown? PM-CM video conferencing on current situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat at 11 am on Sunday as the country continues to be in a lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus pandemic.

PM Modi addresses 64th edition of 'Mann Ki Baat'

Recently, India reaches out to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. PM Modi calls the GCC leaders for unity against the pademic COVID-19.

India reaches out to the Arab world, PM Modi calls for unity against COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with the Sarpanches across the country through video-conferencing. PM held the interaction on the Panchayati Raj Day today. He also inaugurated e-Gram Swaraj portal and a mobile application on the occasion.

PM Modi interacts with Sarpanches: Launches new E-Portal, E-Gram Swaraj

COVID-19 does not see race, religion, colour, caste, creed, language or borders before striking. Our response and conduct thereafter should attach primacy to unity and brotherhood.

COVID-19 does not see race, religion, colour, caste, creed, language or borders before striking. Our response and conduct thereafter should attach primacy to unity and brotherhood. We are in this together, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on LinkedIn. "Unlike previous moments in history, when countries or societies faced off against each other, today we are together facing a common challenge. The future will be about togetherness and resilience," PM Modi said. As the world battles COVID-19, India’s energetic and innovative youth can show the way in ensuring healthier and prosperous future. Shared a few thoughts on @LinkedIn, which would interest youngsters and professionals. https://t.co/ZjjVSbMJ6b — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 19, 2020 × The next big ideas from India should find global relevance and application, he said and added that they should have the ability to drive a positive change not merely for India but the entire humankind, he said. India, with the right blend of the physical and the virtual, can emerge as the global nerve centre of complex modern multinational supply chains in the post-COVID-19 world, he further said. ''Let us rise to that occasion and seize this opportunity''.

COVID-19 does not see race, religion, colour, caste, creed, language or borders before striking: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in his speech further extends the lockdown period in India till 3rd May. In his 24 minute speech he addressed nation over the current situation of COVID-19 cases in India.

India Coronavirus: PM Modi extends nationwide lockdown till 3rd May

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing nation over the current status of Coronavirus in India. Recently, the Prime Minister held a meeting with the chief ministers of various states to discuss the extension of the lockdown and the future course of action to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

PM Modi's address to the nation over COVID-19

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke on phone today with Mahmoud Abbas, President of Palestine and conveyed greetings to the President and the people of Palestine, for the forthcoming holy month of Ramzan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke on phone today with Mahmoud Abbas, President of Palestine and conveyed greetings to the President and the people of Palestine, for the forthcoming holy month of Ramzan. Modi also appreciated the efforts being made by Palestine authorities to protect their population from the virus. He also assured all possible support from India for these efforts. The two leaders agreed to remain in touch at appropriate levels to explore avenues of cooperation at this challenging time. The two leaders also discussed the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and apprised each other of the steps being taken in their respective countries to control the situation.

PM Modi conveys Ramzan greetings to Palestine President Abbas in telephonic conversation 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 14 in his speech further extended the lockdown period in India till 3rd May. In his 24 minute speech, he addressed the nation over the current situation of COVID-19 cases in India.

Nationwide lockdown in India extended till May 3: Evaluation of lockdown on April 20

Despite 21-days lockdown in India the coronavirus continues to spread. This has forced the government to extend the lockdown for more than 19 days. Watch report.

India continues to fight the coronavirus pandemic: Lockdown extended

To fight against deadly coronavirus outbreak in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended the nationwide lockdown till May 3.

PM Modi's 7-point message to fight COVID-19

PM Narendra Modi will address the nation on the coronavirus situation in the country. It is expected that the lockdown can be further extended after April 14. Testing can be down in places with no COVID-19 cases.

India to expand COVID-19 testing: Testing in places with no cases

The Prime Minister's Office said that PM Narendra Modi will address the nation at 10 am on April 14. The 21-day nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus ends on 14 April, and it is expected the prime minister is likely to talk about its possible extension.

PM Modi to address the nation on April 14 at 10 AM | Coronavirus lockdown in India may extend

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