<p>K Ramoliya, the cameraman who fainted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Surat&nbsp;on Wednesday, said that he lost consciousness during the coverage of the programme due to unavailability of drinking water at the event.</p>

<p>"I had no water since morning as it wasn't allowed to be carried inside, so I fainted. It is good that PM was paying attention to his surroundings during his speech, he noticed me falling down and asked officers to help me," Ramoliya told ANI.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi had paused his speech in between after he saw that a cameraman had fainted. He asked officers and SPG personnel to urgently arrange for an ambulance for the cameraman.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: PM Modi stops his speech at the inauguration of the new terminal building in Surat after observing that a cameraman has fainted. PM told the officers to urgently arrange for an ambulance for the cameraman, Kishan Ramolia. He was rushed to the hospital in a 108 Ambulance. <a href="https://t.co/xUudmFl7cc">pic.twitter.com/xUudmFl7cc</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1090550594270609408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Ramoliya had developed dizziness and fainted. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in a 108 Ambulance.</p>

<p>The incident occurred when the Prime Minister was in Surat to lay the foundation stone for the extension of the terminal building at Surat Airport.&nbsp;</p>


K Ramoliya, the cameraman who fainted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Surat on Wednesday, said that he lost consciousness during the coverage of the programme due to unavailability of drinking water at the event.

K Ramoliya, the cameraman who fainted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in Surat on Wednesday, said that he lost consciousness during the coverage of the programme due to unavailability of drinking water at the event. "I had no water since morning as it wasn't allowed to be carried inside, so I fainted. It is good that PM was paying attention to his surroundings during his speech, he noticed me falling down and asked officers to help me," Ramoliya told ANI. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi had paused his speech in between after he saw that a cameraman had fainted. He asked officers and SPG personnel to urgently arrange for an ambulance for the cameraman. #WATCH: PM Modi stops his speech at the inauguration of the new terminal building in Surat after observing that a cameraman has fainted. PM told the officers to urgently arrange for an ambulance for the cameraman, Kishan Ramolia. He was rushed to the hospital in a 108 Ambulance. pic.twitter.com/xUudmFl7cc — ANI (@ANI) January 30, 2019 × Ramoliya had developed dizziness and fainted. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in a 108 Ambulance. The incident occurred when the Prime Minister was in Surat to lay the foundation stone for the extension of the terminal building at Surat Airport.

Water unavailability led to fainting; good that PM saw, says cameraman who fainted at Surat event

<p>Taking a dig at the Congress party in a public gathering at Surat on Wednesday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-will-modi-government-repeat-2014-victory-2019-167368">Prime Minister Modi</a> said that if the previous governments had to do the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-years-of-modi-government-5-schemes-and-how-they-performed-139632">work that he has done so far</a>, they would have needed "25 more years".</p>

<p>He also credited his government's demonetisation decision for bringing down prices of houses and making them affordable for the aspiring youth.</p>

<p>"I was asked what has been the benefit of note ban decision. You should ask it to the youth, who could buy residential homes at affordable rates after the decision. Black money used to be parked in real estate sector, but with decisions like note ban and RERA, we put a check to it," Modi said.</p>

<p>He also lauded the Civil Aviation Ministry's 'Udaan' (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme - a regional connectivity scheme that makes flying affordable for masses, saying it will boost development of the country's aviation sector.</p>

<p>Targetting the Congress party he said, "In four years of our rule, we constructed 1.30 crore houses while in UPA rule they built 25 lakh houses.</p>

<p>He also stated that for the last 30 years, the country had a "hung Parliament" due to which progress was affected. "But four years ago, people voted to give full majority after which the country is progressing rapidly," he said.</p>

<p>Citing the former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, PM Modi also blamed the Congress for leaking the fund sent for public welfare.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">PM Modi in Surat:Mujhe mat poochna ki Rs 40-50 ka bulb Rs 350 mein bikta tha toh beech wale paise kahan jate the, mujhe mat poochna,uska jawab Rajiv Gandhi dekar gaye the, Re 1 jata tha toh 25 paisa pahunch'ta tha, baaki ka 85 paisa konsa panja khata tha,vo saari duniya janti hai <a href="https://t.co/SWd8y28GYz">pic.twitter.com/SWd8y28GYz</a></p>
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<p>The prime minister was addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone for extension of the new terminal at Surat airport in Gujarat.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Taking a dig at the Congress party in a public gathering at Surat on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi said that if the previous governments had to do the work that he has done so far, they would have needed "25 more years".

Taking a dig at the Congress party in a public gathering at Surat on Wednesday, Prime Minister Modi said that if the previous governments had to do the work that he has done so far, they would have needed "25 more years". He also credited his government's demonetisation decision for bringing down prices of houses and making them affordable for the aspiring youth. "I was asked what has been the benefit of note ban decision. You should ask it to the youth, who could buy residential homes at affordable rates after the decision. Black money used to be parked in real estate sector, but with decisions like note ban and RERA, we put a check to it," Modi said. He also lauded the Civil Aviation Ministry's 'Udaan' (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme - a regional connectivity scheme that makes flying affordable for masses, saying it will boost development of the country's aviation sector. Targetting the Congress party he said, "In four years of our rule, we constructed 1.30 crore houses while in UPA rule they built 25 lakh houses. He also stated that for the last 30 years, the country had a "hung Parliament" due to which progress was affected. "But four years ago, people voted to give full majority after which the country is progressing rapidly," he said. Citing the former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, PM Modi also blamed the Congress for leaking the fund sent for public welfare. PM Modi in Surat:Mujhe mat poochna ki Rs 40-50 ka bulb Rs 350 mein bikta tha toh beech wale paise kahan jate the, mujhe mat poochna,uska jawab Rajiv Gandhi dekar gaye the, Re 1 jata tha toh 25 paisa pahunch'ta tha, baaki ka 85 paisa konsa panja khata tha,vo saari duniya janti hai pic.twitter.com/SWd8y28GYz — ANI (@ANI) January 30, 2019 × The prime minister was addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone for extension of the new terminal at Surat airport in Gujarat. (With inputs from agencies)

Previous govt would have taken '25 more years' to do the work we have done so far: PM Modi in Surat

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not taken a day’s leave during his tenure so far, Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma claimed as he took a swipe at Congress President Rahul Gandhi and his mother and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi for their vacation in Goa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Gandhis’ trip, described as a “private visit” by the party, came into the public domain when Rachna Fernandes, a local resident, posted a photo of herself with Rahul Gandhi and said she was “awed by his charm and modesty”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to a question by reporters on the trip. Sharma said, “Our Prime Minister has not taken leave even for one day during his four-and-a-half-year tenure.</p>

<p>(Whereas) it is a matter of research where these people go when they are on vacation.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Accusing the Congress of double standards, Sharma said the party wants to portray itself as a national party, but it essentially remains a “mother-son party”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“On one hand they say they want to remove corruption and on the other hand have become icons of corruption. On one hand, they talk of security of women and on the other behave in this manner,” Sharma said, referring to an incident in which former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah was caught on video involved in a verbal spat with a woman during a public interaction in Mysuru. In the video which has gone viral, the Congress leader is seen snatching the microphone from her and in the process, taking off her dupatta.</p>

<p>The Union minister further alleged that the Congress President was “immature” and that “no one takes him seriously” and said that the opposition party does not want strong governments to be formed in states. “It is because of this that when these people who talk of gathbandhan (alliance) and mahagathbandhan (grand-alliance), even their so-called allies are not ready to stand with them,” said Sharma. “For them the betterment of the family, their party and personal gains are more important than the betterment of the country,” he said.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not taken a day’s leave during his tenure so far, Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma claimed as he took a swipe at Congress President Rahul Gandhi and his mother and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi for their vacation in Goa.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not taken a day’s leave during his tenure so far, Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma claimed as he took a swipe at Congress President Rahul Gandhi and his mother and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi for their vacation in Goa. The Gandhis’ trip, described as a “private visit” by the party, came into the public domain when Rachna Fernandes, a local resident, posted a photo of herself with Rahul Gandhi and said she was “awed by his charm and modesty”. In response to a question by reporters on the trip. Sharma said, “Our Prime Minister has not taken leave even for one day during his four-and-a-half-year tenure. (Whereas) it is a matter of research where these people go when they are on vacation.” Accusing the Congress of double standards, Sharma said the party wants to portray itself as a national party, but it essentially remains a “mother-son party”. “On one hand they say they want to remove corruption and on the other hand have become icons of corruption. On one hand, they talk of security of women and on the other behave in this manner,” Sharma said, referring to an incident in which former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah was caught on video involved in a verbal spat with a woman during a public interaction in Mysuru. In the video which has gone viral, the Congress leader is seen snatching the microphone from her and in the process, taking off her dupatta. The Union minister further alleged that the Congress President was “immature” and that “no one takes him seriously” and said that the opposition party does not want strong governments to be formed in states. “It is because of this that when these people who talk of gathbandhan (alliance) and mahagathbandhan (grand-alliance), even their so-called allies are not ready to stand with them,” said Sharma. “For them the betterment of the family, their party and personal gains are more important than the betterment of the country,” he said.

'PM has not taken leave even for 1 day': Mahesh Sharma’s swipe at Rahul Gandhi holidaying in Goa

Beating Retreat 2019: Annual music extravaganza concludes on a note of grandiose

Beating Retreat 2019: President Kovind, PM Modi attend annual music extravaganza

Beating Retreat 2019: Bands of Indian Armed Forces enthrall spectators

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi held his second <em>Pariksha pe Charcha</em> on Tuesday. Like the year before, the event was conducted at Delhi's Talkatora stadium.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The event is meant to be a stress buster for students about to appear for their annual examinations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, students from around the country asked the prime minister a number of exam- and life-related questions. How, sir, are you still so energetic? Please guide me towards getting a better job...&nbsp;</p>

<p>And that most important question of all, one that every student has at some point of time in his or her young life asked: Are examinations really good for you, or are they a hindrance to your all-round development?&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Challenges are important in life," Prime Minister Modi said. "Don't curse them. You should instead think of a challenge as an opportunity."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi went on to give the example of a person who wishes to compete at the Olympics, asking how he can if he has not played at the district, state and national level first?&nbsp;</p>

<p>Exams are important, Modi said, but they are not the be all and end all of life.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi added that it was important for children to have healthy conversations with parents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But he added that "parents who try to impose their unfulfilled wishes on their kids are a failure, they must try to recognise the potential in their children. As far as expectations are concerned, we also feel like working hard when there are expectations."&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi held his second Pariksha pe Charcha on Tuesday. Like the year before, the event was conducted at Delhi's Talkatora stadium. The event is meant to be a stress buster for students about to appear for their annual examinations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held his second Pariksha pe Charcha on Tuesday. Like the year before, the event was conducted at Delhi's Talkatora stadium. The event is meant to be a stress buster for students about to appear for their annual examinations. On Tuesday, students from around the country asked the prime minister a number of exam- and life-related questions. How, sir, are you still so energetic? Please guide me towards getting a better job... And that most important question of all, one that every student has at some point of time in his or her young life asked: Are examinations really good for you, or are they a hindrance to your all-round development? "Challenges are important in life," Prime Minister Modi said. "Don't curse them. You should instead think of a challenge as an opportunity." Modi went on to give the example of a person who wishes to compete at the Olympics, asking how he can if he has not played at the district, state and national level first? Exams are important, Modi said, but they are not the be all and end all of life. Modi added that it was important for children to have healthy conversations with parents. But he added that "parents who try to impose their unfulfilled wishes on their kids are a failure, they must try to recognise the potential in their children. As far as expectations are concerned, we also feel like working hard when there are expectations."

At 'Pariksha pe Charcha', PM Modi counsels children about to sit for annual exams

Minimum income guaranteed for all, if voted to power: Rahul Gandhi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year.</p>

<p>During the one-day visit, his fifth since becoming the Prime Minister in 2014, Modi will travel to all the three regions of the state; Ladakh, Kashmir and Jammu, sources told ANI.</p>

<p>He will lay foundation stones for a host of projects during the trip.</p>

<p>The significant projects include laying of foundation stones for the AIIMS - one each in Srinagar and Jammu, the sources said.</p>

<p>In Ladakh, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the work to expand Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh.</p>

<p>He will also inaugurate the Srinagar-Kargil Leh transmission line. He will also address public meetings.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister's visit will take place at a time when there are questions as to when the Assembly elections will be held in the state which doesn't have an elected government since June last year.</p>

<p>The Governor's rule was imposed in the state on June 19 last year after the PDP-BJP coalition government led by Mehbooba Mufti collapsed.</p>

<p>Governor Satya Pal Malik placed the Assembly under suspended animation on June 19 and subsequently dissolved it on November 22, when efforts were being made by different political formations to cobble up a majority in the 87-member House.</p>

<p>On one hand, PDP, National Conference and Congress had joined hands to form the government, on the other hand, People's Conference led by Sajjad Lone also staked a claim to form the government, insisting that he had the requisite support.</p>

<p>Amid criticism, the Governor had justified the dissolution of the House, contending that there were apprehensions of horse trading.</p>

<p>Recently, in Parliament, Opposition parties had slammed the imposition of central rule in the state and questioned when Assembly elections would be held.</p>

<p>Home Minister Rajnath Singh, in his reply, said the central government was ready to hold Assembly elections in the state whenever the Election Commission wants.</p>

<p>He had said the Centre will make available the required strength of security forces and other resources whenever the polls are held.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake a visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 3, amid questions over whether the Assembly elections in the centrally-ruled state will be held with the Lok Sabha polls due by May this year. During the one-day visit, his fifth since becoming the Prime Minister in 2014, Modi will travel to all the three regions of the state; Ladakh, Kashmir and Jammu, sources told ANI. He will lay foundation stones for a host of projects during the trip. The significant projects include laying of foundation stones for the AIIMS - one each in Srinagar and Jammu, the sources said. In Ladakh, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for the work to expand Kushak Bakula Rinpoche Airport in Leh. He will also inaugurate the Srinagar-Kargil Leh transmission line. He will also address public meetings. The Prime Minister's visit will take place at a time when there are questions as to when the Assembly elections will be held in the state which doesn't have an elected government since June last year. The Governor's rule was imposed in the state on June 19 last year after the PDP-BJP coalition government led by Mehbooba Mufti collapsed. Governor Satya Pal Malik placed the Assembly under suspended animation on June 19 and subsequently dissolved it on November 22, when efforts were being made by different political formations to cobble up a majority in the 87-member House. On one hand, PDP, National Conference and Congress had joined hands to form the government, on the other hand, People's Conference led by Sajjad Lone also staked a claim to form the government, insisting that he had the requisite support. Amid criticism, the Governor had justified the dissolution of the House, contending that there were apprehensions of horse trading. Recently, in Parliament, Opposition parties had slammed the imposition of central rule in the state and questioned when Assembly elections would be held. Home Minister Rajnath Singh, in his reply, said the central government was ready to hold Assembly elections in the state whenever the Election Commission wants. He had said the Centre will make available the required strength of security forces and other resources whenever the polls are held.

PM to visit Jammu and Kashmir on February 3 to launch several projects

<p>Arulmozhi Saravanan, a Mudra Yojana beneficiary, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi Narendra Modi in Madurai on Sunday during his visit to the city to lay the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).</p>

<p>Saravanan, whose thermo flasks were ordered by the Prime Minister Office (PMO) via Government e-Marketplace, decided to meet the Prime Minister after learning about his visit to the city.</p>

<p>Earlier, when Saravanan learnt about the Central government's Mudra Yojana for small entrepreneurs to get loans without collateral, she had applied for the same and obtained a Mudra loan for her business-to supply simple goods and products to government offices.</p>

<p>When she heard of the GeM, she herself registered on it. In 2017, while browsing the GeM site, Saravanan noticed that the PMO was interested in purchasing a few thermo flasks, which she could supply. She responded, and soon PMO confirmed the order.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The flasks were later supplied, and the payment was made to Saravanan.</p>

<p>Saravanan shared this story with Prime Minister Modi, through a letter. The Prime Minister later mentioned it on his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme in mid-2017.<br />
It is worth mentioning that in her letters to PM, she addresses PM Modi as her father.</p>

<p>Thereafter, by supplying products to various offices, her business grew. Recently, she wrote to the Prime Minister again, informing him of the updates in her business, and the transformation in her life.</p>

<p>Interestingly, the turnover of her enterprise has crossed Rs 1 crore in the current financial year. It all started with an order of Rs 234 on GeM.</p>

<p>Saravanan, who earlier used firewood for cooking, now has moved over to a gas cylinder.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She is now planning to give up her cooking gas subsidy. Next on her agenda will be a home loan.</p>

<p>She said that her experience using GeM makes her believe that it is a great platform for the government offices to save public money. For her, GeM is now not just a means to a business. She describes it as a service to the nation.</p>

<p>Saravanan also believes that doing business has become easier after the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST).</p>

<p>From Mudra to GeM to GST, Saravanan, undoubtedly, is just one illustration of how the government's reforms are working on the ground to improve the ease the people's life.&nbsp;</p>


Arulmozhi Saravanan, a Mudra Yojana beneficiary, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi Narendra Modi in Madurai on Sunday during his visit to the city to lay the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

Arulmozhi Saravanan, a Mudra Yojana beneficiary, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi Narendra Modi in Madurai on Sunday during his visit to the city to lay the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Saravanan, whose thermo flasks were ordered by the Prime Minister Office (PMO) via Government e-Marketplace, decided to meet the Prime Minister after learning about his visit to the city. Earlier, when Saravanan learnt about the Central government's Mudra Yojana for small entrepreneurs to get loans without collateral, she had applied for the same and obtained a Mudra loan for her business-to supply simple goods and products to government offices. When she heard of the GeM, she herself registered on it. In 2017, while browsing the GeM site, Saravanan noticed that the PMO was interested in purchasing a few thermo flasks, which she could supply. She responded, and soon PMO confirmed the order. The flasks were later supplied, and the payment was made to Saravanan. Saravanan shared this story with Prime Minister Modi, through a letter. The Prime Minister later mentioned it on his 'Mann Ki Baat' programme in mid-2017. It is worth mentioning that in her letters to PM, she addresses PM Modi as her father. Thereafter, by supplying products to various offices, her business grew. Recently, she wrote to the Prime Minister again, informing him of the updates in her business, and the transformation in her life. Interestingly, the turnover of her enterprise has crossed Rs 1 crore in the current financial year. It all started with an order of Rs 234 on GeM. Saravanan, who earlier used firewood for cooking, now has moved over to a gas cylinder. She is now planning to give up her cooking gas subsidy. Next on her agenda will be a home loan. She said that her experience using GeM makes her believe that it is a great platform for the government offices to save public money. For her, GeM is now not just a means to a business. She describes it as a service to the nation. Saravanan also believes that doing business has become easier after the implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST). From Mudra to GeM to GST, Saravanan, undoubtedly, is just one illustration of how the government's reforms are working on the ground to improve the ease the people's life.

PM Modi meets Mudra entrepreneur Arulmozhi Saravanan in Madurai

<p>Prime Minister Modi who is on a day visit to southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala&nbsp;dedicated&nbsp;an Integrated Refinery Expansion Complex (IREP) at BPCL Kochi to the nation on Sunday.</p>

<p>Claiming that India was emerging as a refinery hub across the world, PM Modi said, "Indian refinery industry has done well in establishing itself as a major player globally. India, which is the second largest oil refinery in Asia, is emerging as a refinery hub with refining more than its demand. The country’s refining capacity is currently more than 247 million metric tonne per annum. I take this opportunity to congratulate all for the timely completion of IREP. The labourers are the real heroes of this project,” PM Modi said.</p>

<p>“Today is a historic day when the largest industrial unit of Kerala is entering in next phase of development. It is indeed a proud moment not just for Kerala, but for the entire nation. BPCL has played a critical role in popularising the clean fuel LPG among masses in Kerala and neighbouring states for more than 50 years,” he added.</p>

<p>“I would like to recall my childhood when I had seen many mothers struggling with the firewood stove in kitchens. Ever since, I had always thought of improving their situations and providing a healthy kitchen for them. The Ujjwala scheme of the Government of India is a way to realise the dream. I am happy that since May 2016, nearly 6 crore LPG connections have been provided to the poorest of the poor in our country under the Ujjawla scheme. Over 1 crore customers have given up LPG subsidies under 'Give it Up' initiative,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“To overcome environment pollution, the government is promoting the use of environment-friendly transport fuel i.e. CNG by expanding coverage of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in the country. After successful completion of 10th CGD Bidding Round, more than 400 districts of the country will be connected for providing piped gas supply,” he added.</p>

<p>“I would like to recall my childhood when I had seen many mothers struggling with the firewood stove in kitchens. Ever since, I had always thought of improving their situations and providing a healthy kitchen for them. The Ujjwala scheme of the Government of India is a way to realise the dream. I am happy that since May 2016, nearly 6 crore LPG connections have been provided to the poorest of the poor in our country under the Ujjawla scheme. Over 1 crore customers have given up LPG subsidies under 'Give it Up' initiative,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“To overcome environment pollution, the government is promoting the use of environment-friendly transport fuel i.e. CNG by expanding coverage of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in the country. After successful completion of 10th CGD Bidding Round, more than 400 districts of the country will be connected for providing piped gas supply,” he added.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi said that the central government is “thinking of developing additional 15,000 kilometres of the gas pipeline network".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“To cut down on the import of crude oil, the government has taken decisive steps towards reducing imports by 10 per cent and saving the precious foreign exchange,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides Prime Minister Modi, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor P. Sathasivam was also present at the venue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Modi who is on a day visit to southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala dedicated an Integrated Refinery Expansion Complex (IREP) at BPCL Kochi to the nation on Sunday.

Prime Minister Modi who is on a day visit to southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala dedicated an Integrated Refinery Expansion Complex (IREP) at BPCL Kochi to the nation on Sunday. Claiming that India was emerging as a refinery hub across the world, PM Modi said, "Indian refinery industry has done well in establishing itself as a major player globally. India, which is the second largest oil refinery in Asia, is emerging as a refinery hub with refining more than its demand. The country’s refining capacity is currently more than 247 million metric tonne per annum. I take this opportunity to congratulate all for the timely completion of IREP. The labourers are the real heroes of this project,” PM Modi said. “Today is a historic day when the largest industrial unit of Kerala is entering in next phase of development. It is indeed a proud moment not just for Kerala, but for the entire nation. BPCL has played a critical role in popularising the clean fuel LPG among masses in Kerala and neighbouring states for more than 50 years,” he added. “I would like to recall my childhood when I had seen many mothers struggling with the firewood stove in kitchens. Ever since, I had always thought of improving their situations and providing a healthy kitchen for them. The Ujjwala scheme of the Government of India is a way to realise the dream. I am happy that since May 2016, nearly 6 crore LPG connections have been provided to the poorest of the poor in our country under the Ujjawla scheme. Over 1 crore customers have given up LPG subsidies under 'Give it Up' initiative,” he said. “To overcome environment pollution, the government is promoting the use of environment-friendly transport fuel i.e. CNG by expanding coverage of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in the country. After successful completion of 10th CGD Bidding Round, more than 400 districts of the country will be connected for providing piped gas supply,” he added. “I would like to recall my childhood when I had seen many mothers struggling with the firewood stove in kitchens. Ever since, I had always thought of improving their situations and providing a healthy kitchen for them. The Ujjwala scheme of the Government of India is a way to realise the dream. I am happy that since May 2016, nearly 6 crore LPG connections have been provided to the poorest of the poor in our country under the Ujjawla scheme. Over 1 crore customers have given up LPG subsidies under 'Give it Up' initiative,” he said. “To overcome environment pollution, the government is promoting the use of environment-friendly transport fuel i.e. CNG by expanding coverage of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in the country. After successful completion of 10th CGD Bidding Round, more than 400 districts of the country will be connected for providing piped gas supply,” he added. Prime Minister Modi said that the central government is “thinking of developing additional 15,000 kilometres of the gas pipeline network". “To cut down on the import of crude oil, the government has taken decisive steps towards reducing imports by 10 per cent and saving the precious foreign exchange,” he added. Besides Prime Minister Modi, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor P. Sathasivam was also present at the venue. (With inputs from agencies)

India emerging refinery hub across world: PM Modi in Kochi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Madurai, Tamil Nadu on January 27, a statement said.</p>

<p>He will also inaugurate the super speciality blocks of Rajaji Medical College (Madurai), Thanjavur Medical College (Thanjavur) and Tirunelveli Medical College (Tirunelveli) as a part of upgradation projects of government medical colleges.</p>

<p>The prime minister will visit Kochi on the same day and unveil a plaque to dedicate to the nation an integrated refinery expansion complex of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited.</p>

<p>He will also lay the foundation stone for a petrochemical complex at the same venue, inaugurate a mounded storage vessel at an LPG bottling plant of the Indian Oil Corporation Limited in Kochi and lay the foundation stone for skill development institute at Ettumanoor.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Madurai, Tamil Nadu on January 27, a statement said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Madurai, Tamil Nadu on January 27, a statement said. He will also inaugurate the super speciality blocks of Rajaji Medical College (Madurai), Thanjavur Medical College (Thanjavur) and Tirunelveli Medical College (Tirunelveli) as a part of upgradation projects of government medical colleges. The prime minister will visit Kochi on the same day and unveil a plaque to dedicate to the nation an integrated refinery expansion complex of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited. He will also lay the foundation stone for a petrochemical complex at the same venue, inaugurate a mounded storage vessel at an LPG bottling plant of the Indian Oil Corporation Limited in Kochi and lay the foundation stone for skill development institute at Ettumanoor.

PM Modi to visit Tamil Nadu, Kerala on January 27

India welcomes South African president Cyril Ramaphosa

<p>The high powered selection committee meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday for the appointment of a new CBI Director was inconclusive, sources confirmed.</p>

<p>Names of 80 officers from four IPS batches were presented before the committee. The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, who is part of the three-man committee, has sought dossiers of all officials shortlisted by the committee.</p>

<p>Another meeting may be held next week.</p>

<p>The committee, also including CJI Ranjan Gogoi, was slated to appoint a replacement for former CBI Director Alok Verma, the first CBI chief to be ousted in the history of the institution.</p>

<p>Verma was removed as the CBI Director on January 8 following months of conflict with Special Director Rakesh Asthana and was reinstated the following day on the orders of the Supreme Court. However, the committee voted 2:1 and removed Verma from the post on January 11 and appointed M Nageshwar Rao as his interim replacement.</p>

<p>Earlier today, Justice AK Sikri recused himself from hearing the case against the appointment of Rao as the interim CBI chief. This comes after CJI Gogoi, earlier this week, recused himself from hearing the plea, saying he was a member of the high-powered committee. The petitioners in the case claim that the lack of transparency in Rao`s appointment allows the government to exercise "undue influence in the appointment process" especially at the stage of short-listing of candidates.&nbsp;</p>


The high powered selection committee meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday for the appointment of a new CBI Director was inconclusive, sources confirmed.

The high powered selection committee meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday for the appointment of a new CBI Director was inconclusive, sources confirmed. Names of 80 officers from four IPS batches were presented before the committee. The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, who is part of the three-man committee, has sought dossiers of all officials shortlisted by the committee. Another meeting may be held next week. The committee, also including CJI Ranjan Gogoi, was slated to appoint a replacement for former CBI Director Alok Verma, the first CBI chief to be ousted in the history of the institution. Verma was removed as the CBI Director on January 8 following months of conflict with Special Director Rakesh Asthana and was reinstated the following day on the orders of the Supreme Court. However, the committee voted 2:1 and removed Verma from the post on January 11 and appointed M Nageshwar Rao as his interim replacement. Earlier today, Justice AK Sikri recused himself from hearing the case against the appointment of Rao as the interim CBI chief. This comes after CJI Gogoi, earlier this week, recused himself from hearing the plea, saying he was a member of the high-powered committee. The petitioners in the case claim that the lack of transparency in Rao`s appointment allows the government to exercise "undue influence in the appointment process" especially at the stage of short-listing of candidates.

PM-led panel's meet to select CBI chief remains 'inconclusive'

<p>A rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was proposed to be held on January 28 in North 24 Parganas district's Thakurnagar area is likely to be rescheduled to February 2, a senior party leader said Wednesday.</p>

<p>"As of now, Prime Minister Narendra Modiji's January 28 rally at Bongoan' Thakurnagar area has been rescheduled to February 2. On February 2 he will address another rally at Durgapur and on February 8 he will address a rally at Siliguri. However, nothing is final as of now," BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha said.</p>

<p>This is the second time in one month that the West Bengal BJP has rescheduled Modi's rallies.</p>

<p>Earlier it was decided that the prime minister will address a rally at Brigade Parade Ground on February 8. It was recently cancelled and the party said he would attend three rallies in the state starting next week.</p>

<p>It was then decided that Modi would address a rally at Thakurnagar on January 28, another at Siliguri in north Bengal on February 2 and the third one at Asansol -- represented by Union Minister Babul Supriyo -- on February 8.</p>

<p>However, on Wednesday evening the state BJP announced that the dates are likely to be altered.</p>

<p>The BJP kick-started its Lok Sabha poll campaign in the state from Tuesday, with party president Amit Shah addressing a rally in Malda district.</p>

<p>Shah has set a target to win more than 23 out of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state.&nbsp;</p>


A rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was proposed to be held on January 28 in North 24 Parganas district's Thakurnagar area is likely to be rescheduled to February 2, a senior party leader said Wednesday.

A rally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was proposed to be held on January 28 in North 24 Parganas district's Thakurnagar area is likely to be rescheduled to February 2, a senior party leader said Wednesday. "As of now, Prime Minister Narendra Modiji's January 28 rally at Bongoan' Thakurnagar area has been rescheduled to February 2. On February 2 he will address another rally at Durgapur and on February 8 he will address a rally at Siliguri. However, nothing is final as of now," BJP national secretary Rahul Sinha said. This is the second time in one month that the West Bengal BJP has rescheduled Modi's rallies. Earlier it was decided that the prime minister will address a rally at Brigade Parade Ground on February 8. It was recently cancelled and the party said he would attend three rallies in the state starting next week. It was then decided that Modi would address a rally at Thakurnagar on January 28, another at Siliguri in north Bengal on February 2 and the third one at Asansol -- represented by Union Minister Babul Supriyo -- on February 8. However, on Wednesday evening the state BJP announced that the dates are likely to be altered. The BJP kick-started its Lok Sabha poll campaign in the state from Tuesday, with party president Amit Shah addressing a rally in Malda district. Shah has set a target to win more than 23 out of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

PM Modi's Bengal rally likely to be rescheduled: BJP leader

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday inaugurated the Subhash Chandra Bose museum at the iconic Red Fort to mark the leader's 122nd birth anniversary.</p>

<p>Modi also inaugurated the Yaad-e-Jallian Museum, (museum on the Jallianwala Bagh and World War I), the Museum on 1857- India's first war of Independence, and Drishyakala-Museum on Indian Art within the Red Fort complex.</p>

<p>The museum on Bose and the Indian National Army showcases various artefacts related to Subhash Chandra Bose and INA. The artefacts include a wooden chair and sword used by the leader, medals, badges, uniforms and other artefacts related to the INA.</p>

<p>A documentary on Bose and the INA will help visitors understand the vision of the freedom fighter. Actor Abhishek Bachchan has lent his voice for the documentary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Yaad-e-Jallian Museum provides an authentic account of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre that took place on April 13, 1919.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A replica of the memorial erected at the Jallianwala Bagh has also been placed at the museum.</p>

<p>The museum will also showcase the heroism, valour and sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the World War-I.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A poem penned by Sarojini Naidu on the plight of Indian soldiers who fought the World War I for the British Empire is part of the artefacts at the museum.</p>

<p>The poem, titled 'The Gift' describes sacrifices made by 1.5 million Indian soldiers in the First World War</p>

<p>The Museum on 1857-India's first war of Independence portrays the historical narrative of war of independence, showcasing the valour and sacrifices made by Indians during the period.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Drishyakala- Exhibition on Indian Art showcases artworks from 16th century till India's independence. It has paintings by Amrita Shergil and Raja Ravi Varma on display.</p>

<p>The PM spent nearly an hour at the museums and shuffled between venues on a golf buggy.</p>

<p>In a tweet earlier, Modi said he bows to Bose on his birth anniversary. "He was a stalwart who committed himself towards ensuring India is free and leads a life of dignity. We are committed to fulfilling his ideas and creating a strong India," he wrote.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday inaugurated the Subhash Chandra Bose museum at the iconic Red Fort to mark the leader's 122nd birth anniversary. Modi also inaugurated the Yaad-e-Jallian Museum, (museum on the Jallianwala Bagh and World War I), the Museum on 1857- India's first war of Independence, and Drishyakala-Museum on Indian Art within the Red Fort complex.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday inaugurated the Subhash Chandra Bose museum at the iconic Red Fort to mark the leader's 122nd birth anniversary. Modi also inaugurated the Yaad-e-Jallian Museum, (museum on the Jallianwala Bagh and World War I), the Museum on 1857- India's first war of Independence, and Drishyakala-Museum on Indian Art within the Red Fort complex. The museum on Bose and the Indian National Army showcases various artefacts related to Subhash Chandra Bose and INA. The artefacts include a wooden chair and sword used by the leader, medals, badges, uniforms and other artefacts related to the INA. A documentary on Bose and the INA will help visitors understand the vision of the freedom fighter. Actor Abhishek Bachchan has lent his voice for the documentary. The Yaad-e-Jallian Museum provides an authentic account of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre that took place on April 13, 1919. A replica of the memorial erected at the Jallianwala Bagh has also been placed at the museum. The museum will also showcase the heroism, valour and sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the World War-I. A poem penned by Sarojini Naidu on the plight of Indian soldiers who fought the World War I for the British Empire is part of the artefacts at the museum. The poem, titled 'The Gift' describes sacrifices made by 1.5 million Indian soldiers in the First World War The Museum on 1857-India's first war of Independence portrays the historical narrative of war of independence, showcasing the valour and sacrifices made by Indians during the period. The Drishyakala- Exhibition on Indian Art showcases artworks from 16th century till India's independence. It has paintings by Amrita Shergil and Raja Ravi Varma on display. The PM spent nearly an hour at the museums and shuffled between venues on a golf buggy. In a tweet earlier, Modi said he bows to Bose on his birth anniversary. "He was a stalwart who committed himself towards ensuring India is free and leads a life of dignity. We are committed to fulfilling his ideas and creating a strong India," he wrote.

On Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose's 122nd birth anniversary, PM Modi inaugurates museum at Red Fort

<p>In an interview with a popular social media page, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went over his past experiences and his journey to becoming the Prime Minister of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The interview is being released online in parts with the third part published by Humans of Bombay on Tuesday on its various social media handles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the interview, PM Modi reminisced over his visit to the Himalayas and how his resolve to be "in the service of others" became resolute once he returned from the mighty mountains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He shared how he visited Ahmedabad and gained the experience of city life for the very first time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Eventually, I became a full time Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. There, I got the opportunity to interact with people from different walks of life and do a wide range of work. We all took turns to clean the RSS office, prepare tea and food for colleagues and clean utensils," the prime minister added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the humdrum of his busy life never took away his Himalayan learnings, Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs79RG8hPNc/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=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">(3/5) “After coming back from the Himalayas, I knew that I wanted my life to be one that is lived in the service of others. Within a short span of returning, I left for Ahmedabad. It was my first brush with living in a big city – the pace of life was very different. I began my time there by occasionally helping my uncle at his canteen. Eventually, I became a full time Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. There, I got the opportunity to interact with people from different walks of life and do a wide range of work. We all took turns to clean the RSS office, prepare tea and food for colleagues and clean utensils. Life was rigorous and busy. But amidst all of my duties, I was determined to not let go of my learnings from the Himalayas. To ensure that this new phase of life didn’t take over the sense of peace that I achieved there, I decided to take out some time every year and introspect. It was my way of maintaining a balanced life. Not many people know this, but I would go away for the 5 days of Diwali. Somewhere in a jungle – a place with only clean water and no people. I would pack enough food to last for those 5 days. There would be no radio’s or newspapers, and during that time, there was no TV or internet anyway. I would reflect – and the strength that this alone time gave me still helps me to handle life and its various experiences. People often asked me, ‘Who are you going to meet?’ And I would say, ‘मैं मुझसे मिलने जा रहा हूं।’ Which is why, I always urge everyone, especially my young friends, in the midst of your fast paced life and busy schedules, take some time off…think and introspect. It will change your perception – you will understand your inner self better. You will start living in the true sense of the word. It will also make you more confident and undeterred by what others say about you. All of these things will help you in times to come. So I just want each and every one of you to remember that you are special and that you don’t have to look outside for the light...it’s already within you.” #TheModiStory</a></p>

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<p>PM Modi emphasised the significance of introspection and shared that he would always delve into the practice of self-scrutiny every once in a while.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Not many people know this, but I would go away for the 5 days of Diwali. Somewhere in a jungle – a place with only clean water and no people. I would pack enough food to last for those 5 days. There would be no radio’s (sic) or newspapers, and during that time, there was no TV or internet anyway. I would reflect – and the strength that this alone time gave me still helps me to handle life and its various experiences. People often asked me, ‘Who are you going to meet?’ And I would say, "<em>Mai </em><em>mujhse</em><em> </em><em>milne</em><em> </em><em>ja</em><em> </em><em>raha</em><em> hu</em> (I am going to meet myself,)" the PM noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Prime Minister, often during his 'Mann ki Baat' radio programme, would give motivational speeches and share anecdotes from his life to inspire children and youngsters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the interview, PM Modi urged his "young friends" to take some time off "in the midst of fast paced life and busy schedules."</p>

<p>"Take some time off… think and introspect. It will change your perception – you will understand your inner self better. You will start living in the true sense of the word. It will also make you more confident and undeterred by what others say about you. All of these things will help you in times to come. So I just want each and every one of you to remember that you are special and that you don’t have to look outside for the light...it’s already within you,” he concluded. &nbsp;</p>


In an interview with a popular social media page, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went over his past experiences and his journey to becoming the Prime Minister of the country.

In an interview with a popular social media page, Prime Minister Narendra Modi went over his past experiences and his journey to becoming the Prime Minister of the country. The interview is being released online in parts with the third part published by Humans of Bombay on Tuesday on its various social media handles. In the interview, PM Modi reminisced over his visit to the Himalayas and how his resolve to be "in the service of others" became resolute once he returned from the mighty mountains. He shared how he visited Ahmedabad and gained the experience of city life for the very first time. "Eventually, I became a full time Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. There, I got the opportunity to interact with people from different walks of life and do a wide range of work. We all took turns to clean the RSS office, prepare tea and food for colleagues and clean utensils," the prime minister added. However, the humdrum of his busy life never took away his Himalayan learnings, Modi said. View this post on Instagram (3/5) “After coming back from the Himalayas, I knew that I wanted my life to be one that is lived in the service of others. Within a short span of returning, I left for Ahmedabad. It was my first brush with living in a big city – the pace of life was very different. I began my time there by occasionally helping my uncle at his canteen. Eventually, I became a full time Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. There, I got the opportunity to interact with people from different walks of life and do a wide range of work. We all took turns to clean the RSS office, prepare tea and food for colleagues and clean utensils. Life was rigorous and busy. But amidst all of my duties, I was determined to not let go of my learnings from the Himalayas. To ensure that this new phase of life didn’t take over the sense of peace that I achieved there, I decided to take out some time every year and introspect. It was my way of maintaining a balanced life. Not many people know this, but I would go away for the 5 days of Diwali. Somewhere in a jungle – a place with only clean water and no people. I would pack enough food to last for those 5 days. There would be no radio’s or newspapers, and during that time, there was no TV or internet anyway. I would reflect – and the strength that this alone time gave me still helps me to handle life and its various experiences. People often asked me, ‘Who are you going to meet?’ And I would say, ‘मैं मुझसे मिलने जा रहा हूं।’ Which is why, I always urge everyone, especially my young friends, in the midst of your fast paced life and busy schedules, take some time off…think and introspect. It will change your perception – you will understand your inner self better. You will start living in the true sense of the word. It will also make you more confident and undeterred by what others say about you. All of these things will help you in times to come. So I just want each and every one of you to remember that you are special and that you don’t have to look outside for the light...it’s already within you.” #TheModiStory A post shared by Humans of Bombay (@officialhumansofbombay) on Jan 22, 2019 at 4:28am PST × PM Modi emphasised the significance of introspection and shared that he would always delve into the practice of self-scrutiny every once in a while. "Not many people know this, but I would go away for the 5 days of Diwali. Somewhere in a jungle – a place with only clean water and no people. I would pack enough food to last for those 5 days. There would be no radio’s (sic) or newspapers, and during that time, there was no TV or internet anyway. I would reflect – and the strength that this alone time gave me still helps me to handle life and its various experiences. People often asked me, ‘Who are you going to meet?’ And I would say, "Mai mujhse milne ja raha hu (I am going to meet myself,)" the PM noted. The Prime Minister, often during his 'Mann ki Baat' radio programme, would give motivational speeches and share anecdotes from his life to inspire children and youngsters. In the interview, PM Modi urged his "young friends" to take some time off "in the midst of fast paced life and busy schedules." "Take some time off… think and introspect. It will change your perception – you will understand your inner self better. You will start living in the true sense of the word. It will also make you more confident and undeterred by what others say about you. All of these things will help you in times to come. So I just want each and every one of you to remember that you are special and that you don’t have to look outside for the light...it’s already within you,” he concluded.

I would go away during Diwali... live somewhere in a jungle for 5 days: PM Modi

PM Modi inaugurates Subhas Chandra Bose Museum at Red Fort

<p>The government has carried out elaborate liberalisation and simplification of the passport issuance process, and work is on for an e-passport facility, officials said Tuesday.</p>

<p>Speaking about the welfare of overseas Indians at the inauguration of the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas here, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said passport and visa rules have been simplified and e-visa has made it much easier for them to travel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our Embassies and Consulates are being connected to the Passport Seva Project worldwide. This will prepare a centralised system connected to the passport service for all of you. Now, one step ahead, work is also going on for issuing chip-based e-passport," Modi said.</p>

<p>Along with passports, the rules related to visas are also being simplified, he said.</p>

<p>Dnyaneshwar Mulay, Secretary, Consular, Passport and Visa division at the Ministry of External Affairs, at a briefing, said passport seva has seen a revolution in the past few years.</p>

<p>Over 290 passport centres have been opened in the country and the aim is to have such facilities in all 543 Lok Sabha constituencies, he said.</p>

<p>"There has been an elaborate liberalisation and simplification of the passport seva," he said.</p>

<p>The whole world is moving towards e-passports and India has also decided to go for it, Mulay said.</p>


The government has carried out elaborate liberalisation and simplification of the passport issuance process, and work is on for an e-passport facility, officials said Tuesday.

The government has carried out elaborate liberalisation and simplification of the passport issuance process, and work is on for an e-passport facility, officials said Tuesday. Speaking about the welfare of overseas Indians at the inauguration of the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas here, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said passport and visa rules have been simplified and e-visa has made it much easier for them to travel. "Our Embassies and Consulates are being connected to the Passport Seva Project worldwide. This will prepare a centralised system connected to the passport service for all of you. Now, one step ahead, work is also going on for issuing chip-based e-passport," Modi said. Along with passports, the rules related to visas are also being simplified, he said. Dnyaneshwar Mulay, Secretary, Consular, Passport and Visa division at the Ministry of External Affairs, at a briefing, said passport seva has seen a revolution in the past few years. Over 290 passport centres have been opened in the country and the aim is to have such facilities in all 543 Lok Sabha constituencies, he said. "There has been an elaborate liberalisation and simplification of the passport seva," he said. The whole world is moving towards e-passports and India has also decided to go for it, Mulay said.

Work is on for e-passport facility: Central government

<p>Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh, on Tuesday, said that India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>"India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Singh, who attended the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2019, said.</p>

<p>He emphasised that the Prime Minister’s initiatives in the field, including the Swacch Bharat Abhiyan, Namami Gange, Smart Cities, among others, have been pivotal in driving the change in the mindset and outlook of common people towards cleanliness and waste management.</p>

<p>During the session, General Singh also voiced hope that greater participation of the citizens of the country and members of the Diaspora will go a long way in achieving the Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of Clean India.</p>

<p>The third plenary session of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2019 was held on January 22 in Varanasi, on the theme of Role of Indian Diaspora in Capacity Building for Affordable Waste Management.</p>

<p>The session was chaired by Singh and was coordinated by Manoj K. Bharti, Additional Secretary, Economic Diplomacy and States, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).</p>

<p>Secretary, CPV and OIA, Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay gave the introductory remarks and introduced the seven members from the Indian Diaspora community, who are also renowned experts in the field of waste management.</p>

<p>The plenary discussion was organised as a follow up to the Pravasi Bharatiya Conference held in July 2018 on the same issue, as a part of the MEA’s initiative to organise smaller, issue-based conferences during the year.</p>

<p>The objective of the conference, as well as the plenary, was to solicit the Diaspora's participation in the area of affordable waste management in the country, particularly with reference to India’s flagship initiatives such as the Swacch Bharat Mission, National Mission for Clean Ganga, and the Smart Cities initiative.</p>

<p>Following this, Bharti made a short presentation, elaborating upon the recommendations made by the members of the Diaspora during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conference held in July 2018, along with the several policy actions taken subsequently by the concerned Ministries of the Government of India. In the discussion that followed, further suggestions on the issue area were sought from the members of the Diaspora.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh, on Tuesday, said that India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh, on Tuesday, said that India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Singh, who attended the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2019, said. He emphasised that the Prime Minister’s initiatives in the field, including the Swacch Bharat Abhiyan, Namami Gange, Smart Cities, among others, have been pivotal in driving the change in the mindset and outlook of common people towards cleanliness and waste management. During the session, General Singh also voiced hope that greater participation of the citizens of the country and members of the Diaspora will go a long way in achieving the Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of Clean India. The third plenary session of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2019 was held on January 22 in Varanasi, on the theme of Role of Indian Diaspora in Capacity Building for Affordable Waste Management. The session was chaired by Singh and was coordinated by Manoj K. Bharti, Additional Secretary, Economic Diplomacy and States, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Secretary, CPV and OIA, Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay gave the introductory remarks and introduced the seven members from the Indian Diaspora community, who are also renowned experts in the field of waste management. The plenary discussion was organised as a follow up to the Pravasi Bharatiya Conference held in July 2018 on the same issue, as a part of the MEA’s initiative to organise smaller, issue-based conferences during the year. The objective of the conference, as well as the plenary, was to solicit the Diaspora's participation in the area of affordable waste management in the country, particularly with reference to India’s flagship initiatives such as the Swacch Bharat Mission, National Mission for Clean Ganga, and the Smart Cities initiative. Following this, Bharti made a short presentation, elaborating upon the recommendations made by the members of the Diaspora during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conference held in July 2018, along with the several policy actions taken subsequently by the concerned Ministries of the Government of India. In the discussion that followed, further suggestions on the issue area were sought from the members of the Diaspora.

India witnessed successes in field of waste management under PM Modi's leadership: VK Singh

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on Tuesday in this temple town and hold talks with his Mauritian counterpart Pravind Jugnauth after the inaugural session.</p>

<p>External Affairs Minister Sushma <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-leading-the-world-today-sushma-swaraj-on-pravasi-bharatiya-divas-191776">Swaraj inaugurated the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas</a> on Monday, along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and said the Indian diaspora has dramatically changed the world's perception of Indians and India.</p>

<p>Mauritian Premier Jugnauth arrived here in the afternoon and was received by Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh. Later, Swaraj called on the Mauritian PM and exchanged views on a range of issues, including strengthening bilateral cooperation.</p>

<p>For the first time, the three-day-long convention is being organised from January 21 to 23 instead of January 9 to allow participants to visit the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad and attend the Republic Day parade here.</p>

<p>The theme of this year's convention is 'role of the Indian diaspora in building new India', a statement from the prime minister's office said.<br />
Varanasi in Modi's parliamentary constituency.</p>

<p>Jugnauth will be the chief guest of the convention, while Himanshu Gulati, member of the Parliament of Norway, will be the special guest. Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, member of Parliament of New Zealand, will be the guest of honour.</p>

<p>President Ram Nath Kovind will address the concluding function on January 23.</p>

<p>Over 4,000 NRI delegates from about 85 countries are attending the event and many of them will be staying in the tent city, built specially for them.?</p>

<p>After Pravasi Divas, the guests will be taken for a visit to the Kumbh Mela on January 24 where also a tent city has been set up.</p>

<p>A cultural village has been developed in Prayagraj, showing the history from the Indus Valley Civilisation. The 'pravasis' will be taken to New Delhi on the night of January 24 and will have a "Delhi darshan" the next day.</p>

<p>They will also witness the Republic Day Parade on January 26.</p>

<p>Uttar Pradesh is the partner state for the event and a novel feature this year is the concept of 'Varanasi hospitality' under which local people are hosting the Indians living abroad at their homes as "family guests".</p>

<p>The First Plenary Session on 'Engagement with younger members of Indian Diaspora', co-chaired by Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Rajyavardhan Rathore and Singh, was held on Monday.?</p>

<p>Uttar Pradesh Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas was also held on Monday where renowned NRIs with family roots in the state took part.</p>

<p>The decision to celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was taken by the late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the first event was celebrated on January 9, 2003, here.</p>

<p>January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas as it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi had returned to India from South Africa.</p>

<p>The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is now celebrated once every two years and provides a platform to the overseas Indian community to engage with the government and reconnect with their roots, the statement said.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on Tuesday in this temple town and hold talks with his Mauritian counterpart Pravind Jugnauth after the inaugural session.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on Tuesday in this temple town and hold talks with his Mauritian counterpart Pravind Jugnauth after the inaugural session. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj inaugurated the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on Monday, along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and said the Indian diaspora has dramatically changed the world's perception of Indians and India. Mauritian Premier Jugnauth arrived here in the afternoon and was received by Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh. Later, Swaraj called on the Mauritian PM and exchanged views on a range of issues, including strengthening bilateral cooperation. For the first time, the three-day-long convention is being organised from January 21 to 23 instead of January 9 to allow participants to visit the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad and attend the Republic Day parade here. The theme of this year's convention is 'role of the Indian diaspora in building new India', a statement from the prime minister's office said. Varanasi in Modi's parliamentary constituency. Jugnauth will be the chief guest of the convention, while Himanshu Gulati, member of the Parliament of Norway, will be the special guest. Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, member of Parliament of New Zealand, will be the guest of honour. President Ram Nath Kovind will address the concluding function on January 23. Over 4,000 NRI delegates from about 85 countries are attending the event and many of them will be staying in the tent city, built specially for them.? After Pravasi Divas, the guests will be taken for a visit to the Kumbh Mela on January 24 where also a tent city has been set up. A cultural village has been developed in Prayagraj, showing the history from the Indus Valley Civilisation. The 'pravasis' will be taken to New Delhi on the night of January 24 and will have a "Delhi darshan" the next day. They will also witness the Republic Day Parade on January 26. Uttar Pradesh is the partner state for the event and a novel feature this year is the concept of 'Varanasi hospitality' under which local people are hosting the Indians living abroad at their homes as "family guests". The First Plenary Session on 'Engagement with younger members of Indian Diaspora', co-chaired by Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Rajyavardhan Rathore and Singh, was held on Monday.? Uttar Pradesh Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas was also held on Monday where renowned NRIs with family roots in the state took part. The decision to celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was taken by the late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the first event was celebrated on January 9, 2003, here. January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas as it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi had returned to India from South Africa. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is now celebrated once every two years and provides a platform to the overseas Indian community to engage with the government and reconnect with their roots, the statement said.

PM Modi to inaugurate 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas; to hold talks with Mauritian PM 

<p>The proposed rally of Narendra Modi at the Brigade Parade Grounds here next month has been cancelled, the BJP said Monday, adding that the prime minister would initially attend three rallies in West Bengal starting next week.</p>

<p>The historic ground, also known as the Maidan, was the venue for the mega Opposition rally organised by West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee last Saturday.</p>

<p>"Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address three rallies in West Bengal. On January 28 (Monday), he will address a rally at Thakurnagar in Bongaon. On February 2, he will address a rally at Siliguri in north Bengal," state Bharatiya Janata Party president Dilip Ghosh said.</p>

<p>Modi's scheduled rally at the Brigade Parade Grounds on February 8 has been cancelled, instead, he will be addressing a rally at Asansol -- represented by party MP Babul Supriyo -- on the same day, Ghosh said. "So far, this is the schedule."</p>

<p>Asked why the BJP was not organising the Kolkata rally as scheduled, Ghosh said as the party would be holding three rallies in various parts of the state, that was why they had decided to call off the rally. "We will organise a rally at the Brigade Parade Grounds later," he added.</p>

<p>The state BJP will kick-start its Lok Sabha polls campaign in the state from Tuesday, with a rally of party president Amit Shah in Malda district. Shah will be addressing two other rallies at Jhargram and Suri in Birbhum district on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The saffron party has set a target to win 22 out of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state for the upcoming general election.&nbsp;</p>


The proposed rally of Narendra Modi at the Brigade Parade Grounds here next month has been cancelled, the BJP said Monday, adding that the prime minister would initially attend three rallies in West Bengal starting next week.

The proposed rally of Narendra Modi at the Brigade Parade Grounds here next month has been cancelled, the BJP said Monday, adding that the prime minister would initially attend three rallies in West Bengal starting next week. The historic ground, also known as the Maidan, was the venue for the mega Opposition rally organised by West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee last Saturday. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address three rallies in West Bengal. On January 28 (Monday), he will address a rally at Thakurnagar in Bongaon. On February 2, he will address a rally at Siliguri in north Bengal," state Bharatiya Janata Party president Dilip Ghosh said. Modi's scheduled rally at the Brigade Parade Grounds on February 8 has been cancelled, instead, he will be addressing a rally at Asansol -- represented by party MP Babul Supriyo -- on the same day, Ghosh said. "So far, this is the schedule." Asked why the BJP was not organising the Kolkata rally as scheduled, Ghosh said as the party would be holding three rallies in various parts of the state, that was why they had decided to call off the rally. "We will organise a rally at the Brigade Parade Grounds later," he added. The state BJP will kick-start its Lok Sabha polls campaign in the state from Tuesday, with a rally of party president Amit Shah in Malda district. Shah will be addressing two other rallies at Jhargram and Suri in Birbhum district on Wednesday. The saffron party has set a target to win 22 out of the total 42 Lok Sabha seats in the state for the upcoming general election.

West Bengal: BJP cancels PM Modi's Brigade rally in Kolkata

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described NRIs as India's brand ambassadors and said they were the symbols of the country's capabilities.</p>

<p>The prime minister was inaugurating the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas convention in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi.</p>

<p>"I consider NRIs India's brand ambassadors. They are the symbols of our capacities and capabilities," he told the gathering.</p>

<p>"People of Indian origin are in leadership roles in countries such as Mauritius, Portugal and Ireland," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Narendra Modi at Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Varanasi: In past 4.5 years, our government has given around Rs. 5 lakh 78 thousand crores directly to people through different schemes. We have transferred it to their bank accounts. <a href="https://t.co/tAEBm7zfq1">pic.twitter.com/tAEBm7zfq1</a></p>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1087606049241223168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Modi also alluded to former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's comment that only 15 paise of Re 1 reaches masses and said the Congress government had done nothing to stop the leakage.</p>

<p>The prime minister added that his government had stepped in to rectify the situation. The "85 per cent loot" taking place during the Congress regime had been plugged "100 per cent" through technology, he said.</p>

<p>"We have given about Rs 5,80,000 crore to people, transferred to their bank accounts through various schemes. Imagine, if the country was being run on the older system? Then Rs 4,50,000 crore would have vanished," Modi said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Modi at Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, Varanasi: Our Embassies&amp;Consulates across the world are being connected with Passport Sewa Project. It will prepare a centralized system for passport related services for all. Now taking a step forward,work is on to issue chip-based e-passports <a href="https://t.co/dZlNbfA3T9">pic.twitter.com/dZlNbfA3T9</a></p>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1087608420298121216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Continuing his attack on the Congress, he said efforts to stop the "leakage" could have been made earlier as well but there was no intention and will power.</p>

<p>"Our government is moving towards ensuring that the aid given by government is directly transferred to beneficiary accounts through direct benefit schemes," he said.</p>

<p>Mauritian Premier Pravind Jugnauth, who is the chief guest for the three-day event, also spoke on the occasion.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Narendra Modi at Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Varanasi: In past 4.5 years, our government has given around Rs. 5 lakh 78 thousand crores directly to people through different schemes. We have transferred it to their bank accounts. <a href="https://t.co/tAEBm7zfq1">pic.twitter.com/tAEBm7zfq1</a></p>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1087606049241223168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>He hailed the prime minister for India's transformation through initiatives such as the Skill India and the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao schemes.</p>

<p>He also praised Modi's global stewardship in promoting clean energy and for setting up the International Solar Alliance.</p>

<p>Jugnauth announced that his country will hold a Bhagwad Gita Mahotsav next month and a Bhojpuri Festival next year.</p>

<p>For the first time, the three-day convention is being organised from January 21 to 23 instead of January 9 to allow participants to visit the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad and attend the Republic Day parade in the national capital.</p>

<p>The theme of this year's convention is 'Role of Indian diaspora in building new India'.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described NRIs as India's brand ambassadors and said they were the symbols of the country's capabilities. The prime minister was inaugurating the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas convention in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described NRIs as India's brand ambassadors and said they were the symbols of the country's capabilities. The prime minister was inaugurating the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas convention in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi. "I consider NRIs India's brand ambassadors. They are the symbols of our capacities and capabilities," he told the gathering. "People of Indian origin are in leadership roles in countries such as Mauritius, Portugal and Ireland," he said. PM Narendra Modi at Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Varanasi: In past 4.5 years, our government has given around Rs. 5 lakh 78 thousand crores directly to people through different schemes. We have transferred it to their bank accounts. pic.twitter.com/tAEBm7zfq1 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 22, 2019 × Modi also alluded to former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's comment that only 15 paise of Re 1 reaches masses and said the Congress government had done nothing to stop the leakage. The prime minister added that his government had stepped in to rectify the situation. The "85 per cent loot" taking place during the Congress regime had been plugged "100 per cent" through technology, he said. "We have given about Rs 5,80,000 crore to people, transferred to their bank accounts through various schemes. Imagine, if the country was being run on the older system? Then Rs 4,50,000 crore would have vanished," Modi said. PM Modi at Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, Varanasi: Our Embassies&Consulates across the world are being connected with Passport Sewa Project. It will prepare a centralized system for passport related services for all. Now taking a step forward,work is on to issue chip-based e-passports pic.twitter.com/dZlNbfA3T9 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 22, 2019 × Continuing his attack on the Congress, he said efforts to stop the "leakage" could have been made earlier as well but there was no intention and will power. "Our government is moving towards ensuring that the aid given by government is directly transferred to beneficiary accounts through direct benefit schemes," he said. Mauritian Premier Pravind Jugnauth, who is the chief guest for the three-day event, also spoke on the occasion. PM Narendra Modi at Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in Varanasi: In past 4.5 years, our government has given around Rs. 5 lakh 78 thousand crores directly to people through different schemes. We have transferred it to their bank accounts. pic.twitter.com/tAEBm7zfq1 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) January 22, 2019 × He hailed the prime minister for India's transformation through initiatives such as the Skill India and the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao schemes. He also praised Modi's global stewardship in promoting clean energy and for setting up the International Solar Alliance. Jugnauth announced that his country will hold a Bhagwad Gita Mahotsav next month and a Bhojpuri Festival next year. For the first time, the three-day convention is being organised from January 21 to 23 instead of January 9 to allow participants to visit the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad and attend the Republic Day parade in the national capital. The theme of this year's convention is 'Role of Indian diaspora in building new India'.

15th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas: NRIs are India's brand ambassadors, says PM Modi

<p>It is not everyday that Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi takes time out to respond to posts on Twitter. After inaugurating the cinema museum in Mumbai on Saturday, the Prime Minister took to Twitter to interact and reply to some of the celbrities who he had met at the event.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
During his inaugural speech, he surprised the Who`s Who of Indian cinema, in Bollywood-esque fashion: "How`s the Josh?"- a line that has nbow become popular thanks to the film 'Uri: The Surgical Strike'. His Bollywood reference welcomed with vociferous applause, and an unequivocal "High Sir."</p>

<p>On Sunday, Prime Minister Modi took time out to reply to many bigwigs of Indian cinema, who took to Twitter to describe their experience of meeting the PM, while some described his speech, and others posted selfies with him.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The wonderful city of Mumbai is now home to the excellent National Museum of Indian Cinema.<br />
<br />
Here are some pictures. <a href="https://t.co/F9Jb9tM8IB">pic.twitter.com/F9Jb9tM8IB</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1086678936015097856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p><br />
<img alt="modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f327c7d1-1780-4b9a-8a46-901d9cfc895d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/modi2.jpg" /></p>

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<p>Expressing her happiness post the event, singer Asha Bhosle wrote: "With the PM of our beloved country and the President of my house. What a beautiful function today-the inauguration of India`s 1st museum of cinema spanning 100 years of Indian film making."</p>

<p>Replying to her post, PM Modi Tweeted, "Asha Ji, thank you for gracing the programme with your presence. The entire nation looks up to you for your stupendous contribution to the film world."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Asha Ji, thank you for gracing the programme with your presence. The entire nation looks up to you for your stupendous contribution to the film world. <a href="https://twitter.com/ashabhosle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashabhosle</a> <a href="https://t.co/wE77ZtZSD0">https://t.co/wE77ZtZSD0</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1086841555250499584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>TV anchor and comedian Kapil Sharma, who was also present at the event tweeted, "Respected pm Sh @narendramodi ji,it was nice meeting u n great knowing ur inspiring ideas and progressive views about our film industry and our nation. N sir I must say u have a great sense of humor too! regards(sic)"</p>

<p>To which Modi replied, "When @KapilSharmaK9 appreciates somebody's humour, it sure makes that person happy and I am no exception. Thank you for the kind words Kapil."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When <a href="https://twitter.com/KapilSharmaK9?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KapilSharmaK9</a> appreciates somebody's humour, it sure makes that person happy and I am no exception. :)<br />
<br />
Thank you for the kind words Kapil. <a href="https://t.co/SHVTH6vI8p">https://t.co/SHVTH6vI8p</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1086840330035519495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Music composer A.R. Rahman tweeted a picture with the PM Modi. Replying to the tweet, the Prime Minister wrote, "Happy to have met you."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy to have met you, <a href="https://twitter.com/arrahman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arrahman</a>. <a href="https://t.co/QGQSRmMmnU">https://t.co/QGQSRmMmnU</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1086840061851623424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Veteran actor Jeetendra also shared a happy selfie with the Prime Minister post the event. Jeetendra`s daughter Ekta Kapoor later took to her Twitter to share the picture and wrote, "JAI HIND ! my dad`s fan moment !my dad is a big fan of the honourable PRIME MINISTER n today he met him."</p>

<p><img alt="modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df207f88-ab9a-4f95-b9e3-e6442b46bb77" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/modi3.jpg" /></p>

<p>Replying to Ekta`s post, PM Modi wrote, "The entire nation admires Jeetendra Ji for his acting. And, as I said yesterday, he is full of energy!"</p>

<p>Quoting a portion from Narendra Modi`s address veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai tweeted, "Cinema (and) animation universities are the need of the hour Said our PM Narendra Modi today in Mumbai while inaugurating National Museum of Indian Cinema. Attended by best of bests of Mumbai film industry. It made me proud n humbled."<br />
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to the tweet by writing that India has several talented youngsters and also many talented film personalities who can mentor these youth. He added that channelising this talent through such universities can be extremely beneficial.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have several talented youngsters and we also have so many talented film personalities who can mentor these youth.<br />
<br />
Channelising this talent through such universities can be extremely beneficial. <a href="https://t.co/o8kxe5wLdw">https://t.co/o8kxe5wLdw</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1086839936001531904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>While going through all these posts directed towards him, Prime Minister Modi stumbled upon a funny picture tweeted by actor Kartik Aaryan.In the picture captioned "Losers` backfie with the Honorable PM!" Kartik, along with filmmaker Imtiaz Ali and Karan Johar can be seen posing for a selfie with the Prime Minister`s back visible in the background. The actor called it a `backfie.`Not to be outdone, Modi was at his wittiest best in his reply: "Not losers but Rockstars! No selfie Jab We Met but there will always be another occasion." Prime Minister Modi ended the tweet with a smiley.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not losers but Rockstars!<br />
<br />
No selfie Jab We Met but there will always be another occasion. :) <a href="https://t.co/1Ud7D5jIvd">https://t.co/1Ud7D5jIvd</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1086976920842051585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi also responded to tweets from Bhushan Kumar, Kunal Kohli, Siddharth Kannan, Manoj Joshi, Divya Dutta and R Madhavan.&nbsp;</p>


It is not everyday that Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi takes time out to respond to posts on Twitter. After inaugurating the cinema museum in Mumbai on Saturday, the Prime Minister took to Twitter to interact and reply to some of the celbrities who he had met at the event.

It is not everyday that Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi takes time out to respond to posts on Twitter. After inaugurating the cinema museum in Mumbai on Saturday, the Prime Minister took to Twitter to interact and reply to some of the celbrities who he had met at the event. During his inaugural speech, he surprised the Who`s Who of Indian cinema, in Bollywood-esque fashion: "How`s the Josh?"- a line that has nbow become popular thanks to the film 'Uri: The Surgical Strike'. His Bollywood reference welcomed with vociferous applause, and an unequivocal "High Sir." On Sunday, Prime Minister Modi took time out to reply to many bigwigs of Indian cinema, who took to Twitter to describe their experience of meeting the PM, while some described his speech, and others posted selfies with him. The wonderful city of Mumbai is now home to the excellent National Museum of Indian Cinema. Here are some pictures. pic.twitter.com/F9Jb9tM8IB — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 19, 2019 × Expressing her happiness post the event, singer Asha Bhosle wrote: "With the PM of our beloved country and the President of my house. What a beautiful function today-the inauguration of India`s 1st museum of cinema spanning 100 years of Indian film making." Replying to her post, PM Modi Tweeted, "Asha Ji, thank you for gracing the programme with your presence. The entire nation looks up to you for your stupendous contribution to the film world." Asha Ji, thank you for gracing the programme with your presence. The entire nation looks up to you for your stupendous contribution to the film world. @ashabhosle https://t.co/wE77ZtZSD0 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2019 × TV anchor and comedian Kapil Sharma, who was also present at the event tweeted, "Respected pm Sh @narendramodi ji,it was nice meeting u n great knowing ur inspiring ideas and progressive views about our film industry and our nation. N sir I must say u have a great sense of humor too! regards(sic)" To which Modi replied, "When @KapilSharmaK9 appreciates somebody's humour, it sure makes that person happy and I am no exception. Thank you for the kind words Kapil." When @KapilSharmaK9 appreciates somebody's humour, it sure makes that person happy and I am no exception. :) Thank you for the kind words Kapil. https://t.co/SHVTH6vI8p — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2019 × Music composer A.R. Rahman tweeted a picture with the PM Modi. Replying to the tweet, the Prime Minister wrote, "Happy to have met you." Happy to have met you, @arrahman. https://t.co/QGQSRmMmnU — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2019 × Veteran actor Jeetendra also shared a happy selfie with the Prime Minister post the event. Jeetendra`s daughter Ekta Kapoor later took to her Twitter to share the picture and wrote, "JAI HIND ! my dad`s fan moment !my dad is a big fan of the honourable PRIME MINISTER n today he met him." Replying to Ekta`s post, PM Modi wrote, "The entire nation admires Jeetendra Ji for his acting. And, as I said yesterday, he is full of energy!" Quoting a portion from Narendra Modi`s address veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai tweeted, "Cinema (and) animation universities are the need of the hour Said our PM Narendra Modi today in Mumbai while inaugurating National Museum of Indian Cinema. Attended by best of bests of Mumbai film industry. It made me proud n humbled." Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to the tweet by writing that India has several talented youngsters and also many talented film personalities who can mentor these youth. He added that channelising this talent through such universities can be extremely beneficial. We have several talented youngsters and we also have so many talented film personalities who can mentor these youth. Channelising this talent through such universities can be extremely beneficial. https://t.co/o8kxe5wLdw — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2019 × While going through all these posts directed towards him, Prime Minister Modi stumbled upon a funny picture tweeted by actor Kartik Aaryan.In the picture captioned "Losers` backfie with the Honorable PM!" Kartik, along with filmmaker Imtiaz Ali and Karan Johar can be seen posing for a selfie with the Prime Minister`s back visible in the background. The actor called it a `backfie.`Not to be outdone, Modi was at his wittiest best in his reply: "Not losers but Rockstars! No selfie Jab We Met but there will always be another occasion." Prime Minister Modi ended the tweet with a smiley. Not losers but Rockstars! No selfie Jab We Met but there will always be another occasion. :) https://t.co/1Ud7D5jIvd — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2019 × Prime Minister Modi also responded to tweets from Bhushan Kumar, Kunal Kohli, Siddharth Kannan, Manoj Joshi, Divya Dutta and R Madhavan.

When PM Modi indulged in some Twitter conversations with Bollywood stars

<p>Bollywood star Anil Kapoor opened up about his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the trailer launch event of his latest film 'Total Dhamaal' on Monday in Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anil-kapoor-meets-pm-modi-says-i-stand-humbled-and-inspired-190908">Kapoor said his meeting with the PM </a>was destined to happen and it was inspirational for him to meet someone who has been working hard for the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It was absolutely wonderful meeting Modiji. I wanted to meet him for the last couple of years. But it never happened. I think some meetings are destined. It was my privilege and honour to meet him. He is an&nbsp;inspirational figure and I do not think I have seen an individual who is working so hard for the nation."</p>

<p>While Kapoor was all praises for the PM, he steered clear of answering questions about the upcoming elections. Kapoor was asked whether he thought Modi should get another term at the office and the actor said, "Obviously that is for all of us to see what happens in the elections. But this is not a platform where we can discuss politics."</p>

<p>PM Modi has met and interacted with a spate of Bollywood stars in recent times. A <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-vicky-kaushal-alia-bhatt-and-others-feature-in-selfie-of-the-year-with-pm-modi-189416">14 member delegation of young Bollywood stars</a> had recently met the PM in New Delhi and discussed how cinema could help in nation building. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/when-pm-modi-indulged-in-some-twitter-conversations-with-bollywood-stars-191728">Modi also interacted with Bollywood stalwarts</a> like Asha Bhosle, Aamir Khan, Manoj Kumar at the opening ceremony of cinema museum in Mumbai on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>


Bollywood star Anil Kapoor opened up about his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the trailer launch event of his latest film 'Total Dhamaal' on Monday in Mumbai.

Bollywood star Anil Kapoor opened up about his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the trailer launch event of his latest film 'Total Dhamaal' on Monday in Mumbai. Kapoor said his meeting with the PM was destined to happen and it was inspirational for him to meet someone who has been working hard for the country. "It was absolutely wonderful meeting Modiji. I wanted to meet him for the last couple of years. But it never happened. I think some meetings are destined. It was my privilege and honour to meet him. He is an inspirational figure and I do not think I have seen an individual who is working so hard for the nation." While Kapoor was all praises for the PM, he steered clear of answering questions about the upcoming elections. Kapoor was asked whether he thought Modi should get another term at the office and the actor said, "Obviously that is for all of us to see what happens in the elections. But this is not a platform where we can discuss politics." PM Modi has met and interacted with a spate of Bollywood stars in recent times. A 14 member delegation of young Bollywood stars had recently met the PM in New Delhi and discussed how cinema could help in nation building. Modi also interacted with Bollywood stalwarts like Asha Bhosle, Aamir Khan, Manoj Kumar at the opening ceremony of cinema museum in Mumbai on Saturday.

Anil Kapoor on meeting PM Modi: Never seen anyone work so hard for the nation

<p>Prime Minister of Czech Republic, Andrej Babiš, on Sunday appreciated India's trade strategy and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' campaign, adding that Czech companies should now consider investing in India.</p>

<p>While speaking at the inaugural event of a Center for European Studies at Symbiosis University in western India's Pune, Babiš said, "to make better relations, we need Czech companies to coming here (in India) and invest."</p>

<p>Babiš is on an official visit to India, wherein he and Modi earlier met on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2019 event and have had talks on enhancing bilateral relations.</p>

<p>Babiš also remarked jokingly about the meeting, saying he asked the Indian Prime Minister on how did he manage a country of 1.3 billion people with a cabinet of nearly 70 ministers, while he has a hard time with his own smaller fraction.</p>


Prime Minister of Czech Republic, Andrej Babiš, on Sunday appreciated India's trade strategy and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' campaign, adding that Czech companies should now consider investing in India.

Prime Minister of Czech Republic, Andrej Babiš, on Sunday appreciated India's trade strategy and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' campaign, adding that Czech companies should now consider investing in India. While speaking at the inaugural event of a Center for European Studies at Symbiosis University in western India's Pune, Babiš said, "to make better relations, we need Czech companies to coming here (in India) and invest." Babiš is on an official visit to India, wherein he and Modi earlier met on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2019 event and have had talks on enhancing bilateral relations. Babiš also remarked jokingly about the meeting, saying he asked the Indian Prime Minister on how did he manage a country of 1.3 billion people with a cabinet of nearly 70 ministers, while he has a hard time with his own smaller fraction.

Czech PM wants home companies to invest in India

<p>On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money.</p>

<p>"The '<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahagathbandhan-is-not-against-me-but-people-of-india-pm-modi-in-gujarat-191429">mahagathbandhan</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahagathbandhan-is-not-against-me-but-people-of-india-pm-modi-in-gujarat-191429">' or grand alliance</a> is not just against Narendra Modi but also against the people of India... They can make any number of gathbandhan to save their parivars, their sultanates... But they will never be able to win hearts of the people," the prime minister said on Saturday while addressing a public function at Silvassa, the capital of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli.</p>

<p>In a dig at the opposition rally organised by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in Kolkata, he said the BJP has only one MLA in West Bengal, "but still they are so afraid of us because we follow the path of truth that they have gathered parties from across the country and are crying 'bachao, bachao, bachao' (save us)".</p>

<p>"... Their world is centred around the progress of their families, their kith and kin. In their world, there is no vision for India," Modi said, adding the countrymen are his family and his sole aim is the progress of the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They are troubled as to why Modi is taking stringent action against corruption. Should I not fight against corruption...They are troubled as to why Modi has banished the middlemen from the corridors of power."</p>

<p>"They are so angry that I prevented them from looting public money that they are trying to form the 'mahagathbandhan'," Modi said, adding that these leaders have come together out of fear.</p>

<p>"They can make any number of gathbandhan to save their parivars, their sultanates, but they cannot run away from their karmas. Their karmas are following them on each and every step," Modi said.</p>

<p>"Their politics, which is centred around hatred for Modi, can get traction in newspapers and television channels, but it will never be able to win hearts of the people who are watching their every move," the prime minister said, after laying a foundation stone for a medical college.</p>

<p>Against the backdrop of the West Bengal government denying permission to BJP to organise yatras in West Bengal, the PM said political parties in the TMC-ruled state are not even allowed to carry out their programmes.</p>

<p>"Party workers are killed there during elections and they talk about saving democracy. When those involved in suffocating democracy talk of saving it, then people will say 'wah kya baat hai...'," he said, mocking the parties opposing the BJP.</p>

<p>Leaders of an array of opposition parties are taking part in the 'United India Rally' in Kolkata, where Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee gave a call for changing the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>Modi said all these parties once used to abuse the Congress, but now their leaders are together as the ground is slipping beneath their feet.</p>

<p>"Their world starts with hatred for Modi and ends by hurling abuses at Modi. Their world is centred around the progress of their families, their kith and kin. In their world, there is no vision for India," Modi said.</p>

<p>"While my world starts with how to bring changes to the life of 125 crore people of the country without any focus on family and with a vision to make India the foremost developed country in the 21st century," Modi said.</p>

<p>In the 60-year rule of one party, not much work was done as they gave more importance to names instead of work, he said. In the last four-and-half years many new schemes have been launched but none of them is associated with the name Modi, he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This shows that our intention is to ensure the progress of the people and not just one family... This is not our culture... For me the 1.25 crore countrymen are my family," Modi said.</p>


On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money.

On a day when many opposition parties came together on a common platform in Kolkata, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hit out at their proposed 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance, saying it is a combination of those who are angry at his stringent action against corruption as they have been stopped from looting public money. "The 'mahagathbandhan' or grand alliance is not just against Narendra Modi but also against the people of India... They can make any number of gathbandhan to save their parivars, their sultanates... But they will never be able to win hearts of the people," the prime minister said on Saturday while addressing a public function at Silvassa, the capital of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. In a dig at the opposition rally organised by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in Kolkata, he said the BJP has only one MLA in West Bengal, "but still they are so afraid of us because we follow the path of truth that they have gathered parties from across the country and are crying 'bachao, bachao, bachao' (save us)". "... Their world is centred around the progress of their families, their kith and kin. In their world, there is no vision for India," Modi said, adding the countrymen are his family and his sole aim is the progress of the nation. "They are troubled as to why Modi is taking stringent action against corruption. Should I not fight against corruption...They are troubled as to why Modi has banished the middlemen from the corridors of power." "They are so angry that I prevented them from looting public money that they are trying to form the 'mahagathbandhan'," Modi said, adding that these leaders have come together out of fear. "They can make any number of gathbandhan to save their parivars, their sultanates, but they cannot run away from their karmas. Their karmas are following them on each and every step," Modi said. "Their politics, which is centred around hatred for Modi, can get traction in newspapers and television channels, but it will never be able to win hearts of the people who are watching their every move," the prime minister said, after laying a foundation stone for a medical college. Against the backdrop of the West Bengal government denying permission to BJP to organise yatras in West Bengal, the PM said political parties in the TMC-ruled state are not even allowed to carry out their programmes. "Party workers are killed there during elections and they talk about saving democracy. When those involved in suffocating democracy talk of saving it, then people will say 'wah kya baat hai...'," he said, mocking the parties opposing the BJP. Leaders of an array of opposition parties are taking part in the 'United India Rally' in Kolkata, where Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee gave a call for changing the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. Modi said all these parties once used to abuse the Congress, but now their leaders are together as the ground is slipping beneath their feet. "Their world starts with hatred for Modi and ends by hurling abuses at Modi. Their world is centred around the progress of their families, their kith and kin. In their world, there is no vision for India," Modi said. "While my world starts with how to bring changes to the life of 125 crore people of the country without any focus on family and with a vision to make India the foremost developed country in the 21st century," Modi said. In the 60-year rule of one party, not much work was done as they gave more importance to names instead of work, he said. In the last four-and-half years many new schemes have been launched but none of them is associated with the name Modi, he said. "This shows that our intention is to ensure the progress of the people and not just one family... This is not our culture... For me the 1.25 crore countrymen are my family," Modi said.

Those stopped from looting public money are forming 'mahagathbandhan': PM Modi

<p>The fifteenth Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas will begin on Monday. The three-day event from January 21 to 23 will take place in Varanasi with Prime minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurating the event on Tuesday and President Ram Nath Kovind speaking at the closing ceremony on Wednesday. Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, who is on a week-long visit to India, will be the chief guest.</p>

<p>"On the 22nd evening, there will be a program on Ganga by Hema Malini," External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said ahead of the event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attendees will be taken to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela on January 24, on the 25th they will be brought to Delhi for sightseeing, and on the 26th they will watch the Republic Day parade in the capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Uttar Pradesh government has made provisions for the stay of the attendees — they will be put up at people's homes in Varanasi and at a tent city in Prayagraj.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Under Varanasi Aatithya and to give the diaspora members the feel of Indian hospitality, families in Varanasi have opened their doors. PM wanted this and to facilitate this, people have registered and we have selected families where NRIs can stay," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Youth PBD will take place on the first day of the gala and at which the chief guests will be Himanshu Gulati, member of parliament from Norway, and Kamaljeet Bakshi, member of parliament from New Zealand. Thirty people will be honoured by the President with Pravasi Samman awards on the last day.</p>

<p>The decision to hold a Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas was first taken by former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the first PBD took place under his prime ministership from January 9 to 11, &nbsp;2003. To honour Vajpayee, the auditorium in which PBD 2019 will take place has been named after him. An exhibition is also being organised to remember him.</p>

<p>Asked how the PBD will increase diplomatic outreach, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh — he was speaking at a curtain-raiser press conference, said, "The amount of money that our diaspora members send to India, which is not visible to everybody, the amount of remittances that we get back to India, that is not visible to everybody but their effect is not obviously visible to everybody. Whatever we spend on we do it after much deliberations and what I believe that the message that we put across through this and the way we have structured the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, it definitely improves our outreach."</p>

<p>The chief ministers of Haryana and Uttarakhand will be participating in the PBD.</p>

<p>This is the third PBD being organised by the Modi government. The first was held in January 2015 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, the second in January 2017 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. In 2015, the Modi government turned the PBD into a biennial event.</p>

<p>The PBD begins every year on January 9 to mark Mahatma Gandhi's arrival back in India from South Africa in 1915. It was moved back to the January 21 this year to align it with the Kumbh Mela and Republic Day so that the diaspora could experience India's culture at Prayagraj and its grandeur at Rajpath.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The fifteenth Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas will begin on Monday. The three-day event from January 21 to 23 will take place in Varanasi with Prime minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurating the event on Tuesday and President Ram Nath Kovind speaking at the closing ceremony on Wednesday.

The fifteenth Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas will begin on Monday. The three-day event from January 21 to 23 will take place in Varanasi with Prime minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurating the event on Tuesday and President Ram Nath Kovind speaking at the closing ceremony on Wednesday. Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, who is on a week-long visit to India, will be the chief guest. "On the 22nd evening, there will be a program on Ganga by Hema Malini," External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said ahead of the event. The attendees will be taken to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela on January 24, on the 25th they will be brought to Delhi for sightseeing, and on the 26th they will watch the Republic Day parade in the capital. The Uttar Pradesh government has made provisions for the stay of the attendees — they will be put up at people's homes in Varanasi and at a tent city in Prayagraj. "Under Varanasi Aatithya and to give the diaspora members the feel of Indian hospitality, families in Varanasi have opened their doors. PM wanted this and to facilitate this, people have registered and we have selected families where NRIs can stay," Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said. A Youth PBD will take place on the first day of the gala and at which the chief guests will be Himanshu Gulati, member of parliament from Norway, and Kamaljeet Bakshi, member of parliament from New Zealand. Thirty people will be honoured by the President with Pravasi Samman awards on the last day. The decision to hold a Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas was first taken by former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the first PBD took place under his prime ministership from January 9 to 11, 2003. To honour Vajpayee, the auditorium in which PBD 2019 will take place has been named after him. An exhibition is also being organised to remember him. Asked how the PBD will increase diplomatic outreach, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh — he was speaking at a curtain-raiser press conference, said, "The amount of money that our diaspora members send to India, which is not visible to everybody, the amount of remittances that we get back to India, that is not visible to everybody but their effect is not obviously visible to everybody. Whatever we spend on we do it after much deliberations and what I believe that the message that we put across through this and the way we have structured the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, it definitely improves our outreach." The chief ministers of Haryana and Uttarakhand will be participating in the PBD. This is the third PBD being organised by the Modi government. The first was held in January 2015 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, the second in January 2017 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. In 2015, the Modi government turned the PBD into a biennial event. The PBD begins every year on January 9 to mark Mahatma Gandhi's arrival back in India from South Africa in 1915. It was moved back to the January 21 this year to align it with the Kumbh Mela and Republic Day so that the diaspora could experience India's culture at Prayagraj and its grandeur at Rajpath.

Fifteenth Pravasi Bhartiya Divas to begin Monday in Varanasi, Mauritian PM Pravind Jugnauth will be chief guest

PM Modi takes a tank ride in Surat

<p>Trade, economic ties, healthcare were the major issues discussed in the meeting held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Maltese counterpart Joseph Muscat in Gandhi Nagar, ahead of the '9th Vibrant Gujarat Summit'&nbsp;on Friday.</p>

<p>The two leaders also agreed to enhance mutual cooperation in sectors such as renewable energy, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, air connectivity and tourism.</p>

<p>Apart from Muscat, Prime Minister of Czech Republic Andrej Babis, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister of Denmark Lars Løkke Rasmussen have also arrived in Gujarat to attend the Summit.</p>

<p>More than 30,000 national and international delegates, including CEOs of major firms from India and abroad, are expected to attend the biennial three-day event in Gandhinagar.</p>

<p>The Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show is being held on a two lakh square metres plot of land situated in Gandhinagar. More than 20 industrial and business sectors will showcase their products at the event.</p>

<p>This mega trade show will continue till January 22 and will be open for general public on the last two days - January 21 and 22.</p>


Trade, economic ties, healthcare were the major issues discussed in the meeting held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Maltese counterpart Joseph Muscat in Gandhi Nagar, ahead of the '9th Vibrant Gujarat Summit' on Friday.

Trade, economic ties, healthcare were the major issues discussed in the meeting held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Maltese counterpart Joseph Muscat in Gandhi Nagar, ahead of the '9th Vibrant Gujarat Summit' on Friday. The two leaders also agreed to enhance mutual cooperation in sectors such as renewable energy, pharmaceuticals and healthcare, air connectivity and tourism. Apart from Muscat, Prime Minister of Czech Republic Andrej Babis, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Prime Minister of Denmark Lars Løkke Rasmussen have also arrived in Gujarat to attend the Summit. More than 30,000 national and international delegates, including CEOs of major firms from India and abroad, are expected to attend the biennial three-day event in Gandhinagar. The Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show is being held on a two lakh square metres plot of land situated in Gandhinagar. More than 20 industrial and business sectors will showcase their products at the event. This mega trade show will continue till January 22 and will be open for general public on the last two days - January 21 and 22.

PM Modi meets foreign dignitaries ahead of 9th Vibrant Gujarat Summit

<p>PM Modi will inaugurate National Museum of Indian Cinema (NMIC) on Saturday in Mumbai in what is currently a 19th-century heritage bungalow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The NMIC is being made to provide an insight into the Indian film history in order to help film students, filmmakers, fans and critics to learn and understand about cinema as a medium of artistic expression in the country and globally.</p>

<p>As per a report in the IANS, the museum will have on display artefacts like vintage cameras, projectors, editing and recording equipment, costumes, photographs and other materials portraying the journey of Indian cinema since its dawn in 1913. It will also showcase the first Indian full-length feature film, ‘Raja Harishchandra’ that was made by the legendary Dhundiraj Govind Phadke, known as Dadasaheb Phalke.</p>

<p>The museum will also have film sets, props, film tapes, soundtracks, trailers, transparencies and a rich collection of film-related literature and memorabilia depicting Indian film history in chronological order.</p>

<p>The design features include a unique front elevation designed with inclined structural glazing support by cable nets with spiders and a glass facade to provide a 3D view impression to the structure. The museum complex includes a multipurpose hall for movie previews, social events, conferences or seminars and cultural gatherings, besides incorporating several features to make it green and eco-friendly.</p>

<p>Designed by the National Council of Science Museums, it was first conceptualised in 1997 and set up in the 19th-century heritage bungalow Gulshan Mahal and in another adjacent modern five-storeyed building, spread across 12,000 sq. metres.</p>

<p>The opening ceremony of the eventful night will see stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, AR Rahman, David Dhawan, Rohit Shetty, Waheeda Rehman, Jeetendra Kapoor, Asha Parekh, Raveena Tandon, Pankaj Kapoor, Rakesh Mehra and others attending.&nbsp;</p>


PM Modi will inaugurate National Museum of Indian Cinema (NMIC) on Saturday in Mumbai in what is currently a 19th-century heritage bungalow. The NMIC is being made to provide an insight into the Indian film history in order to help film students, filmmakers, fans and critics to learn and understand about cinema as a medium of artistic expression in the country and globally.

PM Modi will inaugurate National Museum of Indian Cinema (NMIC) on Saturday in Mumbai in what is currently a 19th-century heritage bungalow. The NMIC is being made to provide an insight into the Indian film history in order to help film students, filmmakers, fans and critics to learn and understand about cinema as a medium of artistic expression in the country and globally. As per a report in the IANS, the museum will have on display artefacts like vintage cameras, projectors, editing and recording equipment, costumes, photographs and other materials portraying the journey of Indian cinema since its dawn in 1913. It will also showcase the first Indian full-length feature film, ‘Raja Harishchandra’ that was made by the legendary Dhundiraj Govind Phadke, known as Dadasaheb Phalke. The museum will also have film sets, props, film tapes, soundtracks, trailers, transparencies and a rich collection of film-related literature and memorabilia depicting Indian film history in chronological order. The design features include a unique front elevation designed with inclined structural glazing support by cable nets with spiders and a glass facade to provide a 3D view impression to the structure. The museum complex includes a multipurpose hall for movie previews, social events, conferences or seminars and cultural gatherings, besides incorporating several features to make it green and eco-friendly. Designed by the National Council of Science Museums, it was first conceptualised in 1997 and set up in the 19th-century heritage bungalow Gulshan Mahal and in another adjacent modern five-storeyed building, spread across 12,000 sq. metres. The opening ceremony of the eventful night will see stars including Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, Salman Khan, AR Rahman, David Dhawan, Rohit Shetty, Waheeda Rehman, Jeetendra Kapoor, Asha Parekh, Raveena Tandon, Pankaj Kapoor, Rakesh Mehra and others attending.

PM Modi to unveil National Film Museum in Mumbai

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