<p>In what seems to be a new thing among Bollywood actors, Anil Kapoor met with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and shared a picture with him on his Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He captioned the photo: “I had the opportunity to meet our h’ble Prime Minister @narendramodi Ji today &amp; I stand humbled and inspired in the wake of our conversation. His vision and his charisma are infectious &amp; I’m grateful for the chance to have witnessed it in person.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I had the opportunity to meet our h'ble Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> Ji today &amp; I stand humbled and inspired in the wake of our conversation. His vision and his charisma are infectious &amp; I'm grateful for the chance to have witnessed it in person 🙏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/Tnl7JNRvT4">pic.twitter.com/Tnl7JNRvT4</a></p>
— Anil Kapoor (@AnilKapoor) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnilKapoor/status/1085506702127046657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before this, we saw a huge delegation of stars meet the PM in Delhi as they flew in a private jet from Mumbai and shared inside pics and videos of their crazy in-flight fun. The delegation included stars like Ranveer Singh, Ranbir Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, Alia Bhatt, Bhumi Pednekar, Sidharth Malhotra, Ayushmann Khurrana, Rajkummar Rao, Vicky Kaushal and directors Karan Johar, Ekta Kapoor, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Rohit Shetty who looked more than happy to meet the PM.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsdDW4sjWjH/?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">Powerful and timely conversations can bring about change and this was one of what we hope will become a regular conversation. Meeting the Honorable Prime Minister @narendramodi today was an incredible opportunity. As a community, there is a huge interest to contribute to nation building. There is so much that we want to do. And can do and this dialogue was towards how and what ways we can do that. When the youngest country (in demography) joins hands with the largest movie industry in the world, we hope to be a force to reckon with. Together we would love to inspire and ignite positive changes to a transformative India. The film industry would also like to send a huge thanks for the GST reduction in movie ticket prices that was implemented recently! Thank you so much for your time, Sir!</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/karanjohar/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Karan Johar</a> (@karanjohar) on <time datetime="2019-01-10T12:24:54+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 10, 2019 at 4:24am PST</time></p>
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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsddAV7D6QH/?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">Thank you for meeting us today sir! @narendramodi ! An incredible exchange of thoughts and ideas with the forces of the film fraternity and the honourable Prime Minister!</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/karanjohar/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Karan Johar</a> (@karanjohar) on <time datetime="2019-01-10T16:09:01+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 10, 2019 at 8:09am PST</time></p>
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<p>Meanwhile, Anil will be seen in a film titled <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/watch-trailer-sonam-kapoor-rajkummar-rao-look-refreshing-in-ek-ladki-ko-dekha-186808">‘Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To Aisa Laga’</a> in which he is working with his real-life daughter Sonam Kapoor for the first time. The film also has Rajkummar Rao in a leading role.&nbsp;</p>


In what seems to be a new thing among Bollywood actors, Anil Kapoor met with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and shared a picture with him on his Twitter.

In what seems to be a new thing among Bollywood actors, Anil Kapoor met with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and shared a picture with him on his Twitter. He captioned the photo: “I had the opportunity to meet our h’ble Prime Minister @narendramodi Ji today & I stand humbled and inspired in the wake of our conversation. His vision and his charisma are infectious & I’m grateful for the chance to have witnessed it in person.” I had the opportunity to meet our h'ble Prime Minister @narendramodi Ji today & I stand humbled and inspired in the wake of our conversation. His vision and his charisma are infectious & I'm grateful for the chance to have witnessed it in person 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/Tnl7JNRvT4 — Anil Kapoor (@AnilKapoor) January 16, 2019 × Before this, we saw a huge delegation of stars meet the PM in Delhi as they flew in a private jet from Mumbai and shared inside pics and videos of their crazy in-flight fun. The delegation included stars like Ranveer Singh, Ranbir Kapoor, Varun Dhawan, Alia Bhatt, Bhumi Pednekar, Sidharth Malhotra, Ayushmann Khurrana, Rajkummar Rao, Vicky Kaushal and directors Karan Johar, Ekta Kapoor, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari and Rohit Shetty who looked more than happy to meet the PM. View this post on Instagram Powerful and timely conversations can bring about change and this was one of what we hope will become a regular conversation. Meeting the Honorable Prime Minister @narendramodi today was an incredible opportunity. As a community, there is a huge interest to contribute to nation building. There is so much that we want to do. And can do and this dialogue was towards how and what ways we can do that. When the youngest country (in demography) joins hands with the largest movie industry in the world, we hope to be a force to reckon with. Together we would love to inspire and ignite positive changes to a transformative India. The film industry would also like to send a huge thanks for the GST reduction in movie ticket prices that was implemented recently! Thank you so much for your time, Sir! A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar) on Jan 10, 2019 at 4:24am PST × View this post on Instagram Thank you for meeting us today sir! @narendramodi ! An incredible exchange of thoughts and ideas with the forces of the film fraternity and the honourable Prime Minister! A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar) on Jan 10, 2019 at 8:09am PST × Meanwhile, Anil will be seen in a film titled ‘Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To Aisa Laga’ in which he is working with his real-life daughter Sonam Kapoor for the first time. The film also has Rajkummar Rao in a leading role.

Anil Kapoor meets PM Modi, says 'I stand humbled and inspired'

Supreme Court refuses to give go ahead to BJP's Rath Yatra in West Bengal

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<p>Two days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Balangir district, a row surfaced on Sunday over alleged cutting of trees to prepare a temporary helipad.</p>

<p>Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Balangir, Sameer Satpathy said several trees were felled near the railway station ground in the district to prepare a temporary helipad without obtaining prior permission.</p>

<p>Satpathy added that an inquiry in this regard has been ordered.</p>

<p>Union Petroleum Minister and senior BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan, however, claimed that people who are "afraid" of the prime minister's visit are trying to spread a false campaign by "misusing" forest officials.</p>

<p>"Following the direction of the DFO, a team will visit the site in order to ascertain the number of trees felled in the area," said Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Babaji Charan Raul.</p>

<p>Since the area happens to be under the jurisdiction of the railways, an official of the East Coast Railways (ECoR) said they are also conducting an inquiry into the matter.</p>

<p>"We are doing our own enquiry on the subject," Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of ECoR, J P Mishra said, adding, preparation of such a helipad is the task of the public works department (PWD) of the state government.</p>

<p>Pradhan added: "It is the local administration which decides as to where the prime minister's helicopter will land."</p>

<p>Modi is slated to attend an official function where he will launch a host of projects, besides addressing a BJP rally in the western Odisha town during his visit.</p>


Two days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Balangir district, a row surfaced on Sunday over alleged cutting of trees to prepare a temporary helipad.

Two days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Balangir district, a row surfaced on Sunday over alleged cutting of trees to prepare a temporary helipad. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Balangir, Sameer Satpathy said several trees were felled near the railway station ground in the district to prepare a temporary helipad without obtaining prior permission. Satpathy added that an inquiry in this regard has been ordered. Union Petroleum Minister and senior BJP leader Dharmendra Pradhan, however, claimed that people who are "afraid" of the prime minister's visit are trying to spread a false campaign by "misusing" forest officials. "Following the direction of the DFO, a team will visit the site in order to ascertain the number of trees felled in the area," said Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Babaji Charan Raul. Since the area happens to be under the jurisdiction of the railways, an official of the East Coast Railways (ECoR) said they are also conducting an inquiry into the matter. "We are doing our own enquiry on the subject," Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of ECoR, J P Mishra said, adding, preparation of such a helipad is the task of the public works department (PWD) of the state government. Pradhan added: "It is the local administration which decides as to where the prime minister's helicopter will land." Modi is slated to attend an official function where he will launch a host of projects, besides addressing a BJP rally in the western Odisha town during his visit.

Felling of trees for PM's helipad sparks row in Odisha

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday derided opposition efforts to cobble up a grand alliance against the BJP and pitched for his party's re-election in the coming parliamentary election, saying these "opportunistic" alliance and "dynastic" parties "want to build their own empire while we want to empower people".</p>

<p>During an interaction with booth-level BJP workers from five parliamentary constituencies in Tamil Nadu via video-conference, Modi said, "Unlike other parties, we are not in politics for divide and rule or building vote banks. We are here to serve the country in every possible way."</p>

<p>"On one hand we have our development agenda and on the other, there are opportunistic alliance and dynastic parties. This election is an opportunity for us to take the agenda of development to new heights. On one hand, we have our development agenda and the vision of <em>sabka</em><em> </em><em>saath</em><em> </em><em>sabka</em><em> </em><em>vikas</em>. On the other hand, there are opportunistic alliance and dynasty parties," he said.</p>

<p>Such parties, the prime minister charged, "want to build their own empire while we want to empower people".</p>

<p>Modi's comments came a day after the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party announced their alliance for the coming Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh in a bid to counter the saffron party.</p>

<p>Billing his party as one that recognised the cultural diversity of the country, he also patted his party workers and exuded confidence they will once again ensure its victory in the coming elections.</p>

<p>A BJP worker is driven not by any self-interest but national interest, he said, adding only in the saffron party can a person born in the socially backward and economically poor family think of reaching the top.</p>

<p>"In the BJP one only needs hard work, not big wallets, high birth or loyalty to one family. We are proud that a party with two MPs (to start off with) is ruling so many states and is running the government at the Centre," Modi said.</p>

<p>He said that the BJP's success has "naturally angered so many people who have done nothing but done negative politics," and have been abusing both the party and himself, the prime minister said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But they should not underestimate the people of India. Our friends in the opposition are anyway a confused lot. They leave no opportunity to say Modi is bad, the government is not working, people dislike the BJP...The first thing that they do is make opportunist alliance with parties they disliked till recently and still do perhaps," he said, without naming anyone.</p>

<p>"If Modi is so bad, the government is not working and if the people dislike the BJP then why build these alliance. Should you not be confident about yourself.</p>

<p>The truth is they know it is a working government, that the poor of India, the youth of India, the farmers of India and the women of India have a strong bond with the BJP."</p>

<p>"Hence, for their own existence they are making a short-term alliance," he said during the interaction with party workers from Mayiladuthurai, Sivaganga, Perambalur, Virudhunagar and Theni parliamentary constituencies as part of his 'Mera Booth, Sabse Mazboot' (My booth is the strongest) initiative.</p>

<p>Taking a dig at the previous UPA government, he said it had built only 25 lakh houses in its last five years under housing for poor scheme, whereas the present government has constructed 1.25 crore houses in four years.</p>

<p>"In the previous government, for them the name of schemes was important, not their functioning. For them houses were means of publicity, for us they are means of poverty elimination. Earlier, whatever schemes were made were only on paper. No one knew how many real beneficiaries existed," he said.</p>

<p>Responding to a question on the MSME sector, Modi hailed the role of small industries in the nation's growth.</p>

<p>The government's commitment to MSME sector can be proved by the fact that 15 crore collateral-free Mudra loans have been provided to entrepreneurs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Many people think ease of doing business only helps big companies. This is a completely wrong perception. Ease of doing business helps the MSME sector and small businesses most," he said.</p>

<p>To a question on GST, he said that the government has from day one of its roll-out been saying that it will improve the new taxation system as "we move ahead" and recalled the various sops being given from time to time, including the latest one where the exemption for suppliers for registration and payment of GST has been raised from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 40 lakh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This will help a large number of MSMEs. Free accounting and billing software will also be provided to taxpayers. Making business easier also means devoting special focus where it is needed," Modi said.</p>

<p>"It would be have been tough to imagine India will one day leave even China behind in attracting foreign direct investment. Let me tell you, India has already surpassed China in 2018 in FDI," the prime minister said.</p>

<p>The "tallest" Statue of Unity of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a model of India's design prowess and showed nothing is impossible, he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are changing all the assumptions that the world had about India, we had about ourselves. If this is possible in four years after we had inherited a mess, think what we can do in the next five years," he said.</p>

<p>Asked about first-time voters ahead of this year's polls, Modi asked his party workers to "make them your first priority" as they decide the future. "The BJP is a natural choice for first-time voters," Modi added.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday derided opposition efforts to cobble up a grand alliance against the BJP and pitched for his party's re-election in the coming parliamentary election, saying these "opportunistic" alliance and "dynastic" parties "want to build their own empire while we want to empower people".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday derided opposition efforts to cobble up a grand alliance against the BJP and pitched for his party's re-election in the coming parliamentary election, saying these "opportunistic" alliance and "dynastic" parties "want to build their own empire while we want to empower people". During an interaction with booth-level BJP workers from five parliamentary constituencies in Tamil Nadu via video-conference, Modi said, "Unlike other parties, we are not in politics for divide and rule or building vote banks. We are here to serve the country in every possible way." "On one hand we have our development agenda and on the other, there are opportunistic alliance and dynastic parties. This election is an opportunity for us to take the agenda of development to new heights. On one hand, we have our development agenda and the vision of sabka saath sabka vikas. On the other hand, there are opportunistic alliance and dynasty parties," he said. Such parties, the prime minister charged, "want to build their own empire while we want to empower people". Modi's comments came a day after the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party announced their alliance for the coming Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh in a bid to counter the saffron party. Billing his party as one that recognised the cultural diversity of the country, he also patted his party workers and exuded confidence they will once again ensure its victory in the coming elections. A BJP worker is driven not by any self-interest but national interest, he said, adding only in the saffron party can a person born in the socially backward and economically poor family think of reaching the top. "In the BJP one only needs hard work, not big wallets, high birth or loyalty to one family. We are proud that a party with two MPs (to start off with) is ruling so many states and is running the government at the Centre," Modi said. He said that the BJP's success has "naturally angered so many people who have done nothing but done negative politics," and have been abusing both the party and himself, the prime minister said. "But they should not underestimate the people of India. Our friends in the opposition are anyway a confused lot. They leave no opportunity to say Modi is bad, the government is not working, people dislike the BJP...The first thing that they do is make opportunist alliance with parties they disliked till recently and still do perhaps," he said, without naming anyone. "If Modi is so bad, the government is not working and if the people dislike the BJP then why build these alliance. Should you not be confident about yourself. The truth is they know it is a working government, that the poor of India, the youth of India, the farmers of India and the women of India have a strong bond with the BJP." "Hence, for their own existence they are making a short-term alliance," he said during the interaction with party workers from Mayiladuthurai, Sivaganga, Perambalur, Virudhunagar and Theni parliamentary constituencies as part of his 'Mera Booth, Sabse Mazboot' (My booth is the strongest) initiative. Taking a dig at the previous UPA government, he said it had built only 25 lakh houses in its last five years under housing for poor scheme, whereas the present government has constructed 1.25 crore houses in four years. "In the previous government, for them the name of schemes was important, not their functioning. For them houses were means of publicity, for us they are means of poverty elimination. Earlier, whatever schemes were made were only on paper. No one knew how many real beneficiaries existed," he said. Responding to a question on the MSME sector, Modi hailed the role of small industries in the nation's growth. The government's commitment to MSME sector can be proved by the fact that 15 crore collateral-free Mudra loans have been provided to entrepreneurs. "Many people think ease of doing business only helps big companies. This is a completely wrong perception. Ease of doing business helps the MSME sector and small businesses most," he said. To a question on GST, he said that the government has from day one of its roll-out been saying that it will improve the new taxation system as "we move ahead" and recalled the various sops being given from time to time, including the latest one where the exemption for suppliers for registration and payment of GST has been raised from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 40 lakh. "This will help a large number of MSMEs. Free accounting and billing software will also be provided to taxpayers. Making business easier also means devoting special focus where it is needed," Modi said. "It would be have been tough to imagine India will one day leave even China behind in attracting foreign direct investment. Let me tell you, India has already surpassed China in 2018 in FDI," the prime minister said. The "tallest" Statue of Unity of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a model of India's design prowess and showed nothing is impossible, he said. "We are changing all the assumptions that the world had about India, we had about ourselves. If this is possible in four years after we had inherited a mess, think what we can do in the next five years," he said. Asked about first-time voters ahead of this year's polls, Modi asked his party workers to "make them your first priority" as they decide the future. "The BJP is a natural choice for first-time voters," Modi added.

They want to build their own empire, we want to empower people: PM Modi's dig at opposition 

PM Modi hails Kartarpur corridor

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Congress party of creating obstacles in the resolution of Ayodhya issue, saying the opposition party does not want the solution to the mandir-masjid issue.</p>

<p>"The Congress party does not want to solve the issue of Ayodhya. People must not forget this callous attitude of this party," Prime Minister said while addressing the BJP's National Council meeting at the Ram Lila Ground here.</p>

<p>Launching a multi-pronged attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Modi said, "The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost 10 important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption."</p>

<p>Congress-led UPA came to power at the Centre by defeating the BJP in 2004 Lok Sabha elections, the election which the BJP had fought under the leadership of then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi also took on the Congress for its alleged role in the AgustaWestland chopper deal. "The Congress party is getting nervous when the probe is being conducted into the role of middleman Christian Michel in the chopper deal. 'Chowkidar'&nbsp;isn't going to stop. It is just a beginning. We will not leave anyone," added the Prime Minister.</p>

<p>He also commented on the Centre's latest move to give 10 per cent reservation to general category poor in admission in educational institutions and government jobs. "The decision will boost the confidence of people and will help India to move forward on the path of development," he said.</p>

<p>"These reservations will give a new dimension to the youths to fulfil their dreams," he added.</p>

<p>"In the 21st century, the country's young population is the biggest power. These energy-rich youths will represent India in the right manner. The young minds know that their voice has a lot of importance. Now, they know that their country's credibility is getting stronger. They also know that the economic and strategic status of India is touching new heights. They know that the government is standing with them under every circumstance," said Prime Minister Modi.</p>

<p>Talking about his government's good works and initiatives aimed at the women's empowerment, Prime Minister Modi said, "Important initiatives have been taken up in the last four and a half years for women's empowerment. People made fun of 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'&nbsp;initiative for political opposition, but we have come a long way to free the society from wrong beliefs, which existed for decades."</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Congress party of creating obstacles in the resolution of Ayodhya issue, saying the opposition party does not want the solution to the mandir-masjid issue.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Congress party of creating obstacles in the resolution of Ayodhya issue, saying the opposition party does not want the solution to the mandir-masjid issue. "The Congress party does not want to solve the issue of Ayodhya. People must not forget this callous attitude of this party," Prime Minister said while addressing the BJP's National Council meeting at the Ram Lila Ground here. Launching a multi-pronged attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Modi said, "The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost 10 important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption." Congress-led UPA came to power at the Centre by defeating the BJP in 2004 Lok Sabha elections, the election which the BJP had fought under the leadership of then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Prime Minister Modi also took on the Congress for its alleged role in the AgustaWestland chopper deal. "The Congress party is getting nervous when the probe is being conducted into the role of middleman Christian Michel in the chopper deal. 'Chowkidar' isn't going to stop. It is just a beginning. We will not leave anyone," added the Prime Minister. He also commented on the Centre's latest move to give 10 per cent reservation to general category poor in admission in educational institutions and government jobs. "The decision will boost the confidence of people and will help India to move forward on the path of development," he said. "These reservations will give a new dimension to the youths to fulfil their dreams," he added. "In the 21st century, the country's young population is the biggest power. These energy-rich youths will represent India in the right manner. The young minds know that their voice has a lot of importance. Now, they know that their country's credibility is getting stronger. They also know that the economic and strategic status of India is touching new heights. They know that the government is standing with them under every circumstance," said Prime Minister Modi. Talking about his government's good works and initiatives aimed at the women's empowerment, Prime Minister Modi said, "Important initiatives have been taken up in the last four and a half years for women's empowerment. People made fun of 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' initiative for political opposition, but we have come a long way to free the society from wrong beliefs, which existed for decades."

Congress obstructing justice in Ayodhya case: PM Modi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday said the bill to give <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-kovind-signs-off-on-bill-providing-10-quota-for-poor-among-upper-castes-it-is-now-law-189885">10 per cent reservation</a> in jobs and education to the general category poor will boost the "self-confidence of new India", asserting that existing quota policy for SCs, STs and OBCs is as strong as it was and will remain so.</p>

<p>In an apparent attack on some opposition parties at the BJP national convention here, he said that they are trying to light a "fire of discontent" by spreading "confusion" over the issue and asked party workers to foil such a conspiracy.</p>

<p>He seemed to be referring to reported claims of some BJP rivals that the general category quota may harm the reservation meant for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes besides Other Backward Classes.</p>

<p>"Without taking away the existing quota and without any tinkering with it, this 10 per cent reservation has been given," the PM said in his concluding address at the BJP convention.</p>

<p>"This will further boost the confidence of new India," he said, adding that it will give a new dimension to the aspirations of the general category poor who were not getting equal opportunity.</p>

<p>"The general category poor cannot be neglected," he said.</p>

<p>The number of seats in educational institutions will also be increased by 10 per cent, he said. It is done to ensure that the increased quota does not eat into the share of those from the unreserved category.</p>

<p>Parliament passed the constitution amendment bill in the Winter Session, with the Modi government meeting a key demand of upper castes.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday said the bill to give 10 per cent reservation in jobs and education to the general category poor will boost the "self-confidence of new India", asserting that existing quota policy for SCs, STs and OBCs is as strong as it was and will remain so.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday said the bill to give 10 per cent reservation in jobs and education to the general category poor will boost the "self-confidence of new India", asserting that existing quota policy for SCs, STs and OBCs is as strong as it was and will remain so. In an apparent attack on some opposition parties at the BJP national convention here, he said that they are trying to light a "fire of discontent" by spreading "confusion" over the issue and asked party workers to foil such a conspiracy. He seemed to be referring to reported claims of some BJP rivals that the general category quota may harm the reservation meant for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes besides Other Backward Classes. "Without taking away the existing quota and without any tinkering with it, this 10 per cent reservation has been given," the PM said in his concluding address at the BJP convention. "This will further boost the confidence of new India," he said, adding that it will give a new dimension to the aspirations of the general category poor who were not getting equal opportunity. "The general category poor cannot be neglected," he said. The number of seats in educational institutions will also be increased by 10 per cent, he said. It is done to ensure that the increased quota does not eat into the share of those from the unreserved category. Parliament passed the constitution amendment bill in the Winter Session, with the Modi government meeting a key demand of upper castes.

Quota for general category poor will boost confidence of new India: PM Modi

<p>Intensifying his attack on Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi over their alleged involvement in the National Herald case, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that those who are out on bail do not believe in the law of institution.</p>

<p>Addressing BJP workers on the concluding day of party's two-day national council meeting in Delhi's Ramlila ground, the Prime Minister targeted the Congress, saying, "How can those who do not believe in country's institution, will respect this country? Those who are out on bail do not believe in the law of land or the institution. When I was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, I was called by an agency and questioned for nine hours. They even jailed Amit Shah. But the Congress'&nbsp;first family thinks it is above the law and doesn't appear before courts despite several summons issued to them".</p>

<p>He added, "This example of how the Congress and its 'naamdar'&nbsp;family breaks the system is that Congress President and other leaders are out on bail in the National Herald case. This case shows that the Congress leaders grab the public's land and money too."</p>

<p>Continuing his tirade against the Congress, he said that now it is a fight between a sultanate and the Constitution. "For Congress, every authority such as the RBI, CAG, CBI, Army, Police, SC is incorrect. For them, only they are correct and anyone who opposes their authority is incorrect. It is now a fight between a sultanate and the Constitution," he added.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister further said, "In 2007, they tried to threaten me with a jail sentence," adding that the United Progressive Alliance's (UPA) only agenda was to implicate Narendra Modi.</p>

<p>He added that the Government, before the NDA regime, had pushed the country into darkness. "The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It would not be wrong if I say that India lost 10 important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption," he said.&nbsp;</p>


Intensifying his attack on Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi over their alleged involvement in the National Herald case, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that those who are out on bail do not believe in the law of institution.

Intensifying his attack on Congress president Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi over their alleged involvement in the National Herald case, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that those who are out on bail do not believe in the law of institution. Addressing BJP workers on the concluding day of party's two-day national council meeting in Delhi's Ramlila ground, the Prime Minister targeted the Congress, saying, "How can those who do not believe in country's institution, will respect this country? Those who are out on bail do not believe in the law of land or the institution. When I was the Chief Minister of Gujarat, I was called by an agency and questioned for nine hours. They even jailed Amit Shah. But the Congress' first family thinks it is above the law and doesn't appear before courts despite several summons issued to them". He added, "This example of how the Congress and its 'naamdar' family breaks the system is that Congress President and other leaders are out on bail in the National Herald case. This case shows that the Congress leaders grab the public's land and money too." Continuing his tirade against the Congress, he said that now it is a fight between a sultanate and the Constitution. "For Congress, every authority such as the RBI, CAG, CBI, Army, Police, SC is incorrect. For them, only they are correct and anyone who opposes their authority is incorrect. It is now a fight between a sultanate and the Constitution," he added. The Prime Minister further said, "In 2007, they tried to threaten me with a jail sentence," adding that the United Progressive Alliance's (UPA) only agenda was to implicate Narendra Modi. He added that the Government, before the NDA regime, had pushed the country into darkness. "The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It would not be wrong if I say that India lost 10 important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption," he said.

Those out on bail don't believe in law of institution: PM Modi attacks Sonia, Rahul

UPA pushed the country into darkness, we proved govt can run without corruption: PM Modi at BJP meet

<p>Unveiling the poll strategy for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi on Saturday said that he was proud that his government has won the trust of the people and has a spotless image.</p>

<p>Addressing the Bhartiya Janata Party's National Convention meeting in Delhi, Modi said that&nbsp;his party's only mantra was 'sabka saath sabka vikas' and they have shown 'how it can take the nation to its peak'.</p>

<p>"It has happened for the first time in the history of the country that a government that came into power with an absolute majority has not been accused of corruption. We can take pride in the fact that there is no taint on us," Modi said.</p>

<p>He also hailed the government's decision of providing 10&nbsp;per cent quota for the poor.</p>

<p>"10&nbsp;per cent quota given to economically backward classes to meet expectations of youths who were not getting opportunities due to poverty, " Modi&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>He said his government was working for the welfare of the farmers and to double their income by 2022.</p>

<p>"Earlier governments saw annadata (farmers) as only matdata (voters), we are constantly trying to address challenges faced by them. We are working day and night to double farmers' income by 2022, ".</p>

<p>The prime minister also took aim at the opposition's effort to build&nbsp;a grand alliance against his party.</p>

<p>"These days, a campaign is going on to publicise a failed experiment in the history of Indian politics by the name of "mahagathbandhan". These people are trying to make a 'majboor sarkaar'. They don't want a 'majboot sarkar' to get formed &amp; their shop to get closed again," Modi said.</p>

<p>"Important initiatives have been taken up in last four years for women empowerment. People made fun of ' Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' for political opposition, but we have come a long way to free society of wrong beliefs that existed for decades," he said.</p>

<p>"Bank gave loans of Rs 18 lakh crore in 60 years and Rs 34 lakh crore in last six years of Congress governance. There were two means of taking loans in the country. One common process and the other Congress process. In the Congress process, banks were forced to give loans to fraudster friends," he added.</p>

<p>Targeting the UPA government, the prime minister said the previous government was tainted with corruption.</p>

<p>"The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost ten important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption, "he said.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Unveiling the poll strategy for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was proud that his government has won the trust of the people and has a spotless image.

Unveiling the poll strategy for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that he was proud that his government has won the trust of the people and has a spotless image. Addressing the Bhartiya Janata Party's National Convention meeting in Delhi, Modi said that his party's only mantra was 'sabka saath sabka vikas' and they have shown 'how it can take the nation to its peak'. "It has happened for the first time in the history of the country that a government that came into power with an absolute majority has not been accused of corruption. We can take pride in the fact that there is no taint on us," Modi said. He also hailed the government's decision of providing 10 per cent quota for the poor. "10 per cent quota given to economically backward classes to meet expectations of youths who were not getting opportunities due to poverty, " Modi said. He said his government was working for the welfare of the farmers and to double their income by 2022. "Earlier governments saw annadata (farmers) as only matdata (voters), we are constantly trying to address challenges faced by them. We are working day and night to double farmers' income by 2022, ". The prime minister also took aim at the opposition's effort to build a grand alliance against his party. "These days, a campaign is going on to publicise a failed experiment in the history of Indian politics by the name of "mahagathbandhan". These people are trying to make a 'majboor sarkaar'. They don't want a 'majboot sarkar' to get formed & their shop to get closed again," Modi said. "Important initiatives have been taken up in last four years for women empowerment. People made fun of ' Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' for political opposition, but we have come a long way to free society of wrong beliefs that existed for decades," he said. "Bank gave loans of Rs 18 lakh crore in 60 years and Rs 34 lakh crore in last six years of Congress governance. There were two means of taking loans in the country. One common process and the other Congress process. In the Congress process, banks were forced to give loans to fraudster friends," he added. Targeting the UPA government, the prime minister said the previous government was tainted with corruption. "The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost ten important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption, "he said. PM Narendra Modi at BJP National Convention in Delhi: The government before us pushed the country into darkness. It won't be wrong if I say that India lost 10 important years (2004-2014) in scams and corruption. pic.twitter.com/5Or2XzTOrW — ANI (@ANI) January 12, 2019 × (With inputs from agencies)

We can take pride in the fact that there is no taint on us: PM Modi

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


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

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

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

<p>In a stinging counter-attack on the Rafale issue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday accused the Congress of stalling defence procurement if there was “no deal” for it. He also said the alleged middleman Christian Michel was close to the Congress first family and the people deserved to know the role played by him in the 10-year delay over the Rafale deal during UPA regime. Interacting with booth level BJP workers of Tamil Nadu through video-conferencing, he said many people think that the biggest failure of Congress was mismanagement of the economy and corruption. “But they did deep damage to our armed forces. Not many know how much damage Congress culture did to our defence sector for decades.</p>

<p>They had made the defence sector a den of Bofors and brokers and middlemen. “In their government, procurement would only happen if there was a deal. If there was no deal their approach was to simply stop buying anything for the armed forces,” Modi said in response to a question. Recalling Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s statement during the debate in Lok Sabha over the Rafale issue, Modi said when India’s neighbours were strengthening their forces with fourth and fifth generation fighters, the then Congress government stalled defence procurement. Recently, between 2004-15, one of India’s neighbours added 400 aircraft while another doubled the air force fleet strength with many of these being fourth and fifth generation fighters, he said.</p>

<p>“What was the Congress government doing at that time? It stalled Defence procurement for want of its deal while our neighbours increased capacity. Congress actually decreased ours. Such huge damage to the defence forces, all for the sake of a deal,” Modi alleged. Referring to negotiations to purchase 126 Rafale fighter jets during the UPA regime, Modi claimed Michel, being probed over the AgustaWestland chopper deal, had access to inside information like the timing of a cabinet meet on security and a government file on a related matter.</p>

<p>“Do you know who this middleman is close to? This middleman is close to the current first family of the Congress.” The reported revelations by the middleman raise several questions and people had a right to know what role did Michel “play in delaying the procurement of Rafale for 10 long years… in putting national security in danger,” he said. “The people of the country deserve to know how did middleman Michel know about the time of a meeting of the Cabinet (committee) on security…,” he said. Similarly, people should know how Michel knew about the status of a government file and how he “managed” the leadership of a party to get the deal. The prime minister’s offensive comes amid the escalating attack by Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who has been posing a series of questions to Modi over the Rafale deal for purchase of 36 fighter jets from the French manufacturer.</p>

<p>Modi said he knew that there would be relentless attacks against him and his reputation as he as he had stopped so many people’s “corrupt businesses,” asserting that he would happily “take all the mud” thrown at him if he can strengthen the hands of soldiers. He asked if it was not the duty of the government to aid the soldiers by providing them with weapons and equipment. “…These are extremely powerful people… they have their people everywhere. That is why you see such attacks against us today. But when it comes to national security, I always say India first,” Modi said. “I will take all the mud thrown at me happily if I can strengthen the hands of the soldiers. When a government is clean and not waiting for a deal to seal a defence procurement, things will move faster. I hope this answers your question,” he added.</p>


In a stinging counter-attack on the Rafale issue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday accused the Congress of stalling defence procurement if there was “no deal” for it.

In a stinging counter-attack on the Rafale issue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday accused the Congress of stalling defence procurement if there was “no deal” for it. He also said the alleged middleman Christian Michel was close to the Congress first family and the people deserved to know the role played by him in the 10-year delay over the Rafale deal during UPA regime. Interacting with booth level BJP workers of Tamil Nadu through video-conferencing, he said many people think that the biggest failure of Congress was mismanagement of the economy and corruption. “But they did deep damage to our armed forces. Not many know how much damage Congress culture did to our defence sector for decades. They had made the defence sector a den of Bofors and brokers and middlemen. “In their government, procurement would only happen if there was a deal. If there was no deal their approach was to simply stop buying anything for the armed forces,” Modi said in response to a question. Recalling Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s statement during the debate in Lok Sabha over the Rafale issue, Modi said when India’s neighbours were strengthening their forces with fourth and fifth generation fighters, the then Congress government stalled defence procurement. Recently, between 2004-15, one of India’s neighbours added 400 aircraft while another doubled the air force fleet strength with many of these being fourth and fifth generation fighters, he said. “What was the Congress government doing at that time? It stalled Defence procurement for want of its deal while our neighbours increased capacity. Congress actually decreased ours. Such huge damage to the defence forces, all for the sake of a deal,” Modi alleged. Referring to negotiations to purchase 126 Rafale fighter jets during the UPA regime, Modi claimed Michel, being probed over the AgustaWestland chopper deal, had access to inside information like the timing of a cabinet meet on security and a government file on a related matter. “Do you know who this middleman is close to? This middleman is close to the current first family of the Congress.” The reported revelations by the middleman raise several questions and people had a right to know what role did Michel “play in delaying the procurement of Rafale for 10 long years… in putting national security in danger,” he said. “The people of the country deserve to know how did middleman Michel know about the time of a meeting of the Cabinet (committee) on security…,” he said. Similarly, people should know how Michel knew about the status of a government file and how he “managed” the leadership of a party to get the deal. The prime minister’s offensive comes amid the escalating attack by Congress President Rahul Gandhi, who has been posing a series of questions to Modi over the Rafale deal for purchase of 36 fighter jets from the French manufacturer. Modi said he knew that there would be relentless attacks against him and his reputation as he as he had stopped so many people’s “corrupt businesses,” asserting that he would happily “take all the mud” thrown at him if he can strengthen the hands of soldiers. He asked if it was not the duty of the government to aid the soldiers by providing them with weapons and equipment. “…These are extremely powerful people… they have their people everywhere. That is why you see such attacks against us today. But when it comes to national security, I always say India first,” Modi said. “I will take all the mud thrown at me happily if I can strengthen the hands of the soldiers. When a government is clean and not waiting for a deal to seal a defence procurement, things will move faster. I hope this answers your question,” he added.

Rafale deal: PM Modi launches stinging counter-attack, questions middleman Michel’s role

<p>The year 2019 has just begun and we already have the selfie of the year. On Thursday, Karan Johar and a bunch of young stars from Bollywood came to Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss on how cinema can help in nation building.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The meeting was facilitated by Karan Johar and had leading Bollywood stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Ayushmann Khurrana, Alia Bhatt, Bhumi Pednekar, Varun Dhawan and Siddharth Malhotra in attendance. Ekta Kapoor, directors Rohit Shetty and Ashwini Iyer Tiwari were also part of the delegation.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Post meeting, the stars posed for an epic selfie with the PM. The photo was shared on Instagram by Karan Johar, who thanked PM Modi for slashing GST rates of movie tickets and wrote, "Powerful and timely conversations can bring about change and this was one of what we hope will become a regular conversation. Meeting the Honorable Prime Minister @narendramodi today was an incredible opportunity.</p>

<p>As a community, there is a huge interest to contribute to nation building. There is so much that we want to do. And can do and this dialogue was towards how and what ways we can do that. When the youngest country (in demography) joins hands with the largest movie industry in the world, we hope to be a force to reckon with. Together we would love to inspire and ignite positive changes to a transformative India.</p>

<p>The film industry would also like to send a huge thanks for the GST reduction in movie ticket prices that was implemented recently!&nbsp;<br />
Thank you so much for your time, Sir!"</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsdDW4sjWjH/?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">Powerful and timely conversations can bring about change and this was one of what we hope will become a regular conversation. Meeting the Honorable Prime Minister @narendramodi today was an incredible opportunity. As a community, there is a huge interest to contribute to nation building. There is so much that we want to do. And can do and this dialogue was towards how and what ways we can do that. When the youngest country (in demography) joins hands with the largest movie industry in the world, we hope to be a force to reckon with. Together we would love to inspire and ignite positive changes to a transformative India. The film industry would also like to send a huge thanks for the GST reduction in movie ticket prices that was implemented recently! Thank you so much for your time, Sir!</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/karanjohar/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Karan Johar</a> (@karanjohar) on <time datetime="2019-01-10T12:24:54+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jan 10, 2019 at 4:24am PST</time></p>
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<p>A few weeks earlier, Bollywood producers met the Prime Minister and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis to discuss GST rates in movie tickets. The meeting though was called out by many for not having any female representation.&nbsp;</p>


The year 2019 has just begun and we already have the selfie of the year. On Thursday, Karan Johar and a bunch of young stars from Bollywood came to Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss on how cinema can help in nation building.

The year 2019 has just begun and we already have the selfie of the year. On Thursday, Karan Johar and a bunch of young stars from Bollywood came to Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss on how cinema can help in nation building. The meeting was facilitated by Karan Johar and had leading Bollywood stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Ayushmann Khurrana, Alia Bhatt, Bhumi Pednekar, Varun Dhawan and Siddharth Malhotra in attendance. Ekta Kapoor, directors Rohit Shetty and Ashwini Iyer Tiwari were also part of the delegation. Post meeting, the stars posed for an epic selfie with the PM. The photo was shared on Instagram by Karan Johar, who thanked PM Modi for slashing GST rates of movie tickets and wrote, "Powerful and timely conversations can bring about change and this was one of what we hope will become a regular conversation. Meeting the Honorable Prime Minister @narendramodi today was an incredible opportunity. As a community, there is a huge interest to contribute to nation building. There is so much that we want to do. And can do and this dialogue was towards how and what ways we can do that. When the youngest country (in demography) joins hands with the largest movie industry in the world, we hope to be a force to reckon with. Together we would love to inspire and ignite positive changes to a transformative India. The film industry would also like to send a huge thanks for the GST reduction in movie ticket prices that was implemented recently! Thank you so much for your time, Sir!" View this post on Instagram Powerful and timely conversations can bring about change and this was one of what we hope will become a regular conversation. Meeting the Honorable Prime Minister @narendramodi today was an incredible opportunity. As a community, there is a huge interest to contribute to nation building. There is so much that we want to do. And can do and this dialogue was towards how and what ways we can do that. When the youngest country (in demography) joins hands with the largest movie industry in the world, we hope to be a force to reckon with. Together we would love to inspire and ignite positive changes to a transformative India. The film industry would also like to send a huge thanks for the GST reduction in movie ticket prices that was implemented recently! Thank you so much for your time, Sir! A post shared by Karan Johar (@karanjohar) on Jan 10, 2019 at 4:24am PST × A few weeks earlier, Bollywood producers met the Prime Minister and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis to discuss GST rates in movie tickets. The meeting though was called out by many for not having any female representation.

Ranveer Singh, Vicky Kaushal, Alia Bhatt and others feature in selfie of the year with PM Modi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>''I hope the bill providing 10 per cent quota for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha by members respecting the public opinion,'' Modi said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Prime Minister was addressing a public rally in Solapur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Passage of the bill that provides 10 per cent quota for the general category poor in jobs and education a "strong answer" by Parliament to those spreading lies on the move.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi also addressed the concerns of the people of the northeast on Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and assured the people of northeast and Assam that their rights will not be compromised.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Yesterday, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed in Lok Sabha. I want to assure people from northeast &amp; Assam that their rights will not be compromised with this decision,'' Modis said.</p>

<p>The Prime Minister also launched road and underground sewerage system projects developed at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore here in Solapur.</p>

<p>He also laid the foundation stone for Rs 1811 crore housing project of 30,000 units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.</p>

<p>Modi also commissioned the four-laned 98.717 km Solapur- Tuljapur-Osmanabad section on NH-211 (New NH-52). The Rs 972.50-crore toll road project will improve connectivity between Solapur and the Marathwada region.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha. ''I hope the bill providing 10 per cent quota for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha by members respecting the public opinion,'' Modi said. The Prime Minister was addressing a public rally in Solapur. Passage of the bill that provides 10 per cent quota for the general category poor in jobs and education a "strong answer" by Parliament to those spreading lies on the move. Modi also addressed the concerns of the people of the northeast on Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and assured the people of northeast and Assam that their rights will not be compromised. ''Yesterday, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed in Lok Sabha. I want to assure people from northeast & Assam that their rights will not be compromised with this decision,'' Modis said. The Prime Minister also launched road and underground sewerage system projects developed at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore here in Solapur. He also laid the foundation stone for Rs 1811 crore housing project of 30,000 units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Modi also commissioned the four-laned 98.717 km Solapur- Tuljapur-Osmanabad section on NH-211 (New NH-52). The Rs 972.50-crore toll road project will improve connectivity between Solapur and the Marathwada region.

Hope bill providing 10 per cent quota for poor is passed in Rajya Sabha: PM Modi

<p>Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-norway-to-ink-pact-tuesday-to-facilitate-dialogue-to-boost-bilateral-trade-188804">who is on a three-day visit</a> to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Today is the main day of engagement for the Norway prime minister and she will be calling on President Kovind, Vice-President Naidu and will meet with PM Modi at Hyderabad House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue at 6pm today. Speaking to the media after the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, she said, "I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi for the warm welcome so far and an impressive reception. Good tradition. I hope the meetings today will have even better way for cooperating in very big and important issues."</p>

<p>She added,"We hope for good friendship and partnership with India on oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues. I would like to say thank you for the warm welcome and looking forward to talks."</p>

<p>She later paid respects to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat. In the visitor's book, she wrote,"I am grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to Mahatma Gandhi, 150 years after his birth. His efforts for peace and non-violence continue to resonate across the globe."</p>

<p>She is the first foreign leader and head of government to visit New Delhi in the new year. On the first day, she addressed the Indian-Norwegian business summit and opened the "green" compound at the Norwegian embassy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi has met&nbsp;Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi with a football. The football had SDG - sustainable development - goal inscribed on it. The gesture was to symbolise attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, PM Modi met the Norway prime minister during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17th last year.</p>


Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg who is on a three-day visit to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues".

Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg who is on a three-day visit to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues". Today is the main day of engagement for the Norway prime minister and she will be calling on President Kovind, Vice-President Naidu and will meet with PM Modi at Hyderabad House. Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue at 6pm today. Speaking to the media after the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, she said, "I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi for the warm welcome so far and an impressive reception. Good tradition. I hope the meetings today will have even better way for cooperating in very big and important issues." She added,"We hope for good friendship and partnership with India on oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues. I would like to say thank you for the warm welcome and looking forward to talks." She later paid respects to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat. In the visitor's book, she wrote,"I am grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to Mahatma Gandhi, 150 years after his birth. His efforts for peace and non-violence continue to resonate across the globe." She is the first foreign leader and head of government to visit New Delhi in the new year. On the first day, she addressed the Indian-Norwegian business summit and opened the "green" compound at the Norwegian embassy. PM Modi has met Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi with a football. The football had SDG - sustainable development - goal inscribed on it. The gesture was to symbolise attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Last year, PM Modi met the Norway prime minister during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17th last year.

Want friendship and partnership with India: Norway PM Erna Solberg

Watch: WION Gravitas, 7th January, 2019

Watch: WION Fineprint, 8th January 2019

Watch: WION Your Story, 8th January 2019

Sushma Swaraj addresses world leaders in Delhi

<p>Soon after the Centre approved <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cabinet-approves-10-quota-for-economically-weak-among-upper-castes-188798">10 percent quota for economically weaker upper castes</a> in government jobs and education, several political leaders called the decision a politically-motivated move ahead of 2019 general elections.</p>

<p>Taking to Twitter, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said, "Reservation for economically backward upper castes. The bugle announcing the elections has well &amp; truly sounded."</p>

<p>Former cabinet minister Yashwant Singh also hit out at the Centre while calling the decision a "jumla" (hollow promise).</p>

<p>"The proposal to give 10% reservation to economically weaker upper castes is nothing more than a jumla. It is bristling with legal complications and there is no time for getting it passed thru both Houses of Parliament. Govt stands completely exposed," Singh, a former BJP leader said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-raises-question-on-the-legal-aspect-of-10-reservation-for-poor-among-upper-castes-188864">West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is misleading the unemployed youth only for elections.</p>

<p>"My question is, in the name of elections can a government cheat people or ditch unemployed youth? They've to clarify whether it will be implemented or not and if it is constitutionally and legally valid or not," she questioned.</p>

<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also trained guns at the Centre calling the move a "mere political stunt".</p>

<p>Congress leader and former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat said that the Centre took the decision when election is around the corner.</p>

<p>"They took the decision very late that also when elections are around the corner. No matter what they do, what 'jumlas'&nbsp;they give, nothing is going to save this government," he added.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, MoS for Social Justice and Empowerment Vijay Sampla hailed the decision saying, "It's a historic step by Modi government. It's meant for economically weaker upper caste sections whose annual earning is lower than Rs&nbsp;8 lakhs and who possess less than five acres of land. It will not affect other reservation categories." &nbsp;</p>

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Soon after the Centre approved 10 percent quota for economically weaker upper castes in government jobs and education, several political leaders called the decision a politically-motivated move ahead of 2019 general elections.

Soon after the Centre approved 10 percent quota for economically weaker upper castes in government jobs and education, several political leaders called the decision a politically-motivated move ahead of 2019 general elections. Taking to Twitter, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said, "Reservation for economically backward upper castes. The bugle announcing the elections has well & truly sounded." Former cabinet minister Yashwant Singh also hit out at the Centre while calling the decision a "jumla" (hollow promise). "The proposal to give 10% reservation to economically weaker upper castes is nothing more than a jumla. It is bristling with legal complications and there is no time for getting it passed thru both Houses of Parliament. Govt stands completely exposed," Singh, a former BJP leader said. Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is misleading the unemployed youth only for elections. "My question is, in the name of elections can a government cheat people or ditch unemployed youth? They've to clarify whether it will be implemented or not and if it is constitutionally and legally valid or not," she questioned. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also trained guns at the Centre calling the move a "mere political stunt". Congress leader and former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat said that the Centre took the decision when election is around the corner. "They took the decision very late that also when elections are around the corner. No matter what they do, what 'jumlas' they give, nothing is going to save this government," he added. Meanwhile, MoS for Social Justice and Empowerment Vijay Sampla hailed the decision saying, "It's a historic step by Modi government. It's meant for economically weaker upper caste sections whose annual earning is lower than Rs 8 lakhs and who possess less than five acres of land. It will not affect other reservation categories."

Opposition corners Centre over general category quota

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-us-president-trump-discuss-indo-pacific-and-afghanistan-in-phone-call-188905">PM Modi, US President Trump discuss Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan in phone call</a></p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump had a telephonic conversation last evening in which both exchanged New Year greetings and expressed satisfaction over the progress in India-US strategic partnership.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-on-4-day-visit-to-china-to-meet-president-xi-report-188901">Kim Jong-un on 4-day visit to China to meet President Xi: Report</a><br />
<br />
Kim Jong-un is on a four-day visit to China to meet President Xi Jinping, Chinese and North Korean state media said Tuesday, after a special train was reported to have been seen crossing the border.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/france-to-introduce-new-law-to-curb-unauthorised-demonstrations-pm-edouard-philippe-188896">France to introduce new law to curb unauthorised demonstrations: PM Edouard Philippe</a></p>

<p>French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe on Monday announced plans to ban participation in unauthorised demonstrations as the government scrambles to try to end weeks of violent "yellow vest" protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-over-2-lakh-litre-water-pumped-out-in-efforts-to-rescue-trapped-miners-188885">Meghalaya: Over 2 lakh litre water pumped out in efforts to rescue trapped miners</a></p>

<p>Coal India Limited (CIL) on Monday started pumping out water from the old shaft at around 3.30 pm as part of the ongoing operations to rescue the miners who have been trapped in a mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-knocked-out-of-fa-cup-by-wolves-188887">Liverpool knocked out of FA Cup by Wolves</a></p>

<p>Premier League leaders Liverpool paid the price for fielding a weakened side as they were knocked out in the third round of the FA Cup following a 2-1 defeat by Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.</p>


PM Modi, US President Trump discuss Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan in phone call Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump had a telephonic conversation last evening in which both exchanged New Year greetings and expressed satisfaction over the progress in India-US strategic partnership.

PM Modi, US President Trump discuss Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan in phone call Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump had a telephonic conversation last evening in which both exchanged New Year greetings and expressed satisfaction over the progress in India-US strategic partnership. Kim Jong-un on 4-day visit to China to meet President Xi: Report Kim Jong-un is on a four-day visit to China to meet President Xi Jinping, Chinese and North Korean state media said Tuesday, after a special train was reported to have been seen crossing the border. France to introduce new law to curb unauthorised demonstrations: PM Edouard Philippe French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe on Monday announced plans to ban participation in unauthorised demonstrations as the government scrambles to try to end weeks of violent "yellow vest" protests. Meghalaya: Over 2 lakh litre water pumped out in efforts to rescue trapped miners Coal India Limited (CIL) on Monday started pumping out water from the old shaft at around 3.30 pm as part of the ongoing operations to rescue the miners who have been trapped in a mine at Ksan near Lyteiñ River in East Jaintia Hills. Liverpool knocked out of FA Cup by Wolves Premier League leaders Liverpool paid the price for fielding a weakened side as they were knocked out in the third round of the FA Cup following a 2-1 defeat by Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump had a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-and-pm-modi-discuss-trade-afghanistan-in-phone-call-white-house-188894">telephonic conversation last evening</a> in which both exchanged New Year greetings and expressed satisfaction over the progress in India-US&nbsp;strategic partnership.</p>

<p>According to a release by the Ministry of External Affairs, "they appreciated the developments such as the launch of the 2+2 Dialogue mechanism and the first-ever trilateral summit of India, the US&nbsp;and Japan."</p>

<p>According to the White House, President Trump received a call from PM Modi in which both "the leaders exchanged perspectives on how to reduce the US&nbsp;trade deficit with India, expand security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, and increase cooperation in Afghanistan.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders took positive note of growing bilateral cooperation in defence, counter-terrorism, energy and coordination on regional and global issues and agreed to continue to work together for further strengthening India-US&nbsp;bilateral relations in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Modi &amp; US President Trump took positive note of growing bilateral cooperation in defence, counter-terrorism&amp;energy and coordination on regional and global issues. They agreed to continue to work together for further strengthening India-U.S. bilateral relations in 2019.</p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1082456716510261248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>The development comes a week after President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mocks-indian-pm-for-library-in-afghanistan-187955">Trump mocked Prime Minister Modi</a> and India's development aid to Afghanistan. US President, in the first cabinet meet of the year, had said that even though he gets "along very well with India and Prime Minister Modi", he doesn't "know who’s using it (the library) in Afghanistan."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The conversations also come at a time when US media reports suggest that Washington may be withdrawing 7,000 of its troops from Afghanistan, however,&nbsp;it has not been confirmed by the Pentagon or the Afghan authorities.</p>

<p>Both the leader last met at the JAI - Japan, America and India trilateral on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina. Before that PM Modi met US vice president Mike Pence in November on the sidelines of East Asia Summit. During the Diwali celebration at the White House in 2018, Trump had called PM Modi a friend and said he is "grateful for friendship with PM Modi".</p>

<p>India and US have been working on Indo-Pacific concept but issues such as trade remain. While Trump had referred to India as a "tariff king", India has been trying to reduce the trade deficit with Washington.</p>

<p>On Monday, PM Modi also had a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin during which Putin wished PM Modi success for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls and invited him to take part in the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September 2019.</p>

<p>During October 2018, India and Russia signed the S400 deal that comes under the ambit of American sanctions under CAATSA law. Washington is yet to make a decision regarding the sanction.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump had a telephonic conversation last evening in which both exchanged New Year greetings and expressed satisfaction over the progress in India-US strategic partnership.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump had a telephonic conversation last evening in which both exchanged New Year greetings and expressed satisfaction over the progress in India-US strategic partnership. According to a release by the Ministry of External Affairs, "they appreciated the developments such as the launch of the 2+2 Dialogue mechanism and the first-ever trilateral summit of India, the US and Japan." According to the White House, President Trump received a call from PM Modi in which both "the leaders exchanged perspectives on how to reduce the US trade deficit with India, expand security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, and increase cooperation in Afghanistan.” The two leaders took positive note of growing bilateral cooperation in defence, counter-terrorism, energy and coordination on regional and global issues and agreed to continue to work together for further strengthening India-US bilateral relations in 2019. PM Modi & US President Trump took positive note of growing bilateral cooperation in defence, counter-terrorism&energy and coordination on regional and global issues. They agreed to continue to work together for further strengthening India-U.S. bilateral relations in 2019. — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2019 × The development comes a week after President Trump mocked Prime Minister Modi and India's development aid to Afghanistan. US President, in the first cabinet meet of the year, had said that even though he gets "along very well with India and Prime Minister Modi", he doesn't "know who’s using it (the library) in Afghanistan." The conversations also come at a time when US media reports suggest that Washington may be withdrawing 7,000 of its troops from Afghanistan, however, it has not been confirmed by the Pentagon or the Afghan authorities. Both the leader last met at the JAI - Japan, America and India trilateral on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina. Before that PM Modi met US vice president Mike Pence in November on the sidelines of East Asia Summit. During the Diwali celebration at the White House in 2018, Trump had called PM Modi a friend and said he is "grateful for friendship with PM Modi". India and US have been working on Indo-Pacific concept but issues such as trade remain. While Trump had referred to India as a "tariff king", India has been trying to reduce the trade deficit with Washington. On Monday, PM Modi also had a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin during which Putin wished PM Modi success for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls and invited him to take part in the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September 2019. During October 2018, India and Russia signed the S400 deal that comes under the ambit of American sanctions under CAATSA law. Washington is yet to make a decision regarding the sanction.

PM Modi, US President Trump discuss Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan in phone call

<p>US&nbsp;President Donald <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mocks-indian-pm-for-library-in-afghanistan-187955">Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> discussed reducing the US&nbsp;trade deficit with India and increasing their cooperation in Afghanistan in a telephone call on Monday, the White House said.</p>

<p>"The leaders agreed to strengthen the US-India strategic partnership in 2019 and exchanged perspectives on how to reduce the US&nbsp;trade deficit with India, expand security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, and increase cooperation in Afghanistan," the White House said in a statement.</p>

<p>The United States has slapped tariffs on imports of steel and aluminium from India, part of Trump's drive to reduce the US&nbsp;trade deficit and boost American manufacturing jobs.</p>

<p>India has threatened to retaliate but said it would not take action until the end of this month.</p>

<p>In Afghanistan, Trump is planning to withdraw more than 5,000 of the 14,000 US&nbsp;troops there, a US&nbsp;official said last month.</p>

<p>With a reduced military presence in Afghanistan, the United States would almost certainly have to curtail its missions, which include training and advising Afghan forces and waging an air campaign against the Taliban and other militant groups.</p>


US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed reducing the US trade deficit with India and increasing their cooperation in Afghanistan in a telephone call on Monday, the White House said.

US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed reducing the US trade deficit with India and increasing their cooperation in Afghanistan in a telephone call on Monday, the White House said. "The leaders agreed to strengthen the US-India strategic partnership in 2019 and exchanged perspectives on how to reduce the US trade deficit with India, expand security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, and increase cooperation in Afghanistan," the White House said in a statement. The United States has slapped tariffs on imports of steel and aluminium from India, part of Trump's drive to reduce the US trade deficit and boost American manufacturing jobs. India has threatened to retaliate but said it would not take action until the end of this month. In Afghanistan, Trump is planning to withdraw more than 5,000 of the 14,000 US troops there, a US official said last month. With a reduced military presence in Afghanistan, the United States would almost certainly have to curtail its missions, which include training and advising Afghan forces and waging an air campaign against the Taliban and other militant groups.

Trump and PM Modi discuss trade, Afghanistan in phone call: White House

Norway PM, Narendra Modi hold bilateral talks

<p>Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg arrived here on Monday on a three-day visit. During the visit she will hold talks with PM Narendra Modi on a host of issues with an aim to expand the multi-faceted bilateral partnership.</p>

<p>Solberg will deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue and address India-Norway Business Summit during her visit.</p>

<p>She will also call on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, besides holding talks with Prime Minister Modi.</p>

<p>External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will also call on Solberg during her India visit.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister of Norway Erna Solberg arrived in Delhi earlier tonight. She is on a three-day state visit to India. <a href="https://t.co/z6pnUksTp7">pic.twitter.com/z6pnUksTp7</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1082022232346509312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Solberg will provide an opportunity to the two sides to review the progress in bilateral cooperation and discuss ways to further expand the multi-faceted partnership in areas of common interest, the MEA had said in a statement.</p>

<p>Ahead of the visit, Ambassador of Norway to India Nils Ragnar Kamsvag said this is the first visit to India by a Norwegian prime minister in a decade.</p>

<p>"The visit has the potential of boosting bilateral trade between the two countries and further strengthen the already good relationship," he said.</p>

<p>Norway is a leading ocean country, a key producer of maritime and sub sea technology and a major exporter of seafood, oil and gas, he said.</p>

<p>"We thus think that Norway has a lot to offer and we are hopeful that the bilateral talks during the visit will focus on sustainable use of the oceans that benefits both countries in the long run," the envoy said.</p>

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Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg arrived here on Monday on a three-day visit. During the visit she will hold talks with PM Narendra Modi on a host of issues with an aim to expand the multi-faceted bilateral partnership.

Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg arrived here on Monday on a three-day visit. During the visit she will hold talks with PM Narendra Modi on a host of issues with an aim to expand the multi-faceted bilateral partnership. Solberg will deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue and address India-Norway Business Summit during her visit. She will also call on President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, besides holding talks with Prime Minister Modi. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will also call on Solberg during her India visit. Prime Minister of Norway Erna Solberg arrived in Delhi earlier tonight. She is on a three-day state visit to India. pic.twitter.com/z6pnUksTp7 — ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2019 × The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Solberg will provide an opportunity to the two sides to review the progress in bilateral cooperation and discuss ways to further expand the multi-faceted partnership in areas of common interest, the MEA had said in a statement. Ahead of the visit, Ambassador of Norway to India Nils Ragnar Kamsvag said this is the first visit to India by a Norwegian prime minister in a decade. "The visit has the potential of boosting bilateral trade between the two countries and further strengthen the already good relationship," he said. Norway is a leading ocean country, a key producer of maritime and sub sea technology and a major exporter of seafood, oil and gas, he said. "We thus think that Norway has a lot to offer and we are hopeful that the bilateral talks during the visit will focus on sustainable use of the oceans that benefits both countries in the long run," the envoy said.

Norwegian PM Erna Solberg arrives in Delhi on 3-day visit

Watch: WION Your Story, 7th January 2019

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephonic conversation on Monday during which both exchanged greeting for the new year 2019, with PM Modi wishing President Putin and people of Russia on the occasion of Christmas. Christmas is celebrated in Russia on January 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vladimir Putin wished Narendra Modi success in connection with the upcoming parliamentary elections in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin also invited PM to take part in the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September 2019 as the main guest.</p>

<p>According to the ministry of external affairs release, "the two leaders appreciated the major milestones achieved in the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two countries in the past year".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both the leaders recalled the "successful wide-ranging discussions" during the informal summit in Sochi in May of 2018 and during President Putin's visit to New Delhi in October for the Annual Summit with both agreeing "to maintain the momentum in the bilateral relations". This year, Russia will host the annual summit.</p>

<p>The leaders discussed bilateral cooperation in the key areas including defence and counter-terrorism and agreed that India-Russia cooperation "plays an important role in the global multilateral order." &nbsp;</p>

<p>Remember roughly 70% of India's defence equipment is Russian in origin. During the 17th Annual Summit, the sides concluded agreements on the supply of S-400 air defence systems, construction of frigates under Project 1135.6 and shareholders agreement on the formation of joint venture to manufacture Ka-226T helicopters in India. The two countries also hold exchanges and training exercises between their armed forces annually.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia and India have been engaging in various forums such as SCO, BRICS and G20. On the sidelines of G20 in 2018, Russia, India and China met for the RIC meet which happened after a gap of 12 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Russian Federal Customs Service data, bilateral trade during in 2016 amounted to US$ 7.71 billion, with Indian exports amounting to US$ 2.39 billion and imports from Russia amounting to US$ 5.32 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both are also focusing on connectivity via the International North-South Transport Corridor that will connect Mumbai to Moscow.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephonic conversation on Monday during which both exchanged greeting for the new year 2019, with PM Modi wishing President Putin and people of Russia on the occasion of Christmas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin had a telephonic conversation on Monday during which both exchanged greeting for the new year 2019, with PM Modi wishing President Putin and people of Russia on the occasion of Christmas. Christmas is celebrated in Russia on January 7. Vladimir Putin wished Narendra Modi success in connection with the upcoming parliamentary elections in India. Putin also invited PM to take part in the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok in September 2019 as the main guest. According to the ministry of external affairs release, "the two leaders appreciated the major milestones achieved in the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two countries in the past year". Both the leaders recalled the "successful wide-ranging discussions" during the informal summit in Sochi in May of 2018 and during President Putin's visit to New Delhi in October for the Annual Summit with both agreeing "to maintain the momentum in the bilateral relations". This year, Russia will host the annual summit. The leaders discussed bilateral cooperation in the key areas including defence and counter-terrorism and agreed that India-Russia cooperation "plays an important role in the global multilateral order." Remember roughly 70% of India's defence equipment is Russian in origin. During the 17th Annual Summit, the sides concluded agreements on the supply of S-400 air defence systems, construction of frigates under Project 1135.6 and shareholders agreement on the formation of joint venture to manufacture Ka-226T helicopters in India. The two countries also hold exchanges and training exercises between their armed forces annually. Russia and India have been engaging in various forums such as SCO, BRICS and G20. On the sidelines of G20 in 2018, Russia, India and China met for the RIC meet which happened after a gap of 12 years. According to Russian Federal Customs Service data, bilateral trade during in 2016 amounted to US$ 7.71 billion, with Indian exports amounting to US$ 2.39 billion and imports from Russia amounting to US$ 5.32 billion. Both are also focusing on connectivity via the International North-South Transport Corridor that will connect Mumbai to Moscow.

Russian President Vladimir Putin calls PM Modi, discusses key strategic issues wishes success in Lok Sabha polls

Watch: WION Dispatch, 7th January 2019

PM Modi, Vladimir Putin discuss bilateral issues over phone

<p>Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg will land in New Delhi on Monday for a 3-day visit, making her the first foreign leader to visit India in 2019. Solberg will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and hold talks with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, the main day of engagement. She will leave on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"Business cooperation, sustainable use of the oceans and implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals will feature high on the Prime Minister’s agenda," a statement from the Norwegian embassy said.</p>

<p>Solberg's other engagements include an address at the Indian-Norwegian Business Summit, the opening of Norway's "green" embassy compound, and a visit to a school in Ghaziabad with a special emphasis on efforts to further education for girls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue.</p>

<p>"The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Solberg will provide an opportunity to the two sides to review the progress in bilateral cooperation and discuss ways to further expand the multifaceted partnership in areas of common interest," a statement from India's Ministry of External Affairs said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new Norwegian embassy building — it will be inaugurated by Solberg, Modi and Minister of State for External affairs Gen VK Singh will attend — will be one of the few building in India to make use of geothermal wells to regulate temperature. The solar panels installed at the building will produce 200 kwh of energy a day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi has met Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi a football. The football had SDG — sustainable development goals — inscribed on it. Last year, Modi met Solberg during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17, 2018.</p>

<p>More than 100 Norwegian companies have invested in India in areas such as ship building, petroleum-related services, hydropower, clean energy and IT services. Several major Indian companies are also present in Norway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 12,924 Indians (9,485 PIOs and 3,439 NRIs) live in Norway.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to figures from Norway's Immigration Department, India has become the leading source of skilled foreign professionals working in Norway. Between 2005 and 2014, the number of skilled professionals from India working in Norway went up from 100 to about 2,000.&nbsp;</p>

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Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg will land in New Delhi on Monday for a 3-day visit, making her the first foreign leader to visit India in 2019. Solberg will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and hold talks with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, the main day of engagement.

Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg will land in New Delhi on Monday for a 3-day visit, making her the first foreign leader to visit India in 2019. Solberg will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu and hold talks with Prime Minister Modi on Tuesday, the main day of engagement. She will leave on Wednesday. "Business cooperation, sustainable use of the oceans and implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals will feature high on the Prime Minister’s agenda," a statement from the Norwegian embassy said. Solberg's other engagements include an address at the Indian-Norwegian Business Summit, the opening of Norway's "green" embassy compound, and a visit to a school in Ghaziabad with a special emphasis on efforts to further education for girls. Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue. "The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Solberg will provide an opportunity to the two sides to review the progress in bilateral cooperation and discuss ways to further expand the multifaceted partnership in areas of common interest," a statement from India's Ministry of External Affairs said. The new Norwegian embassy building — it will be inaugurated by Solberg, Modi and Minister of State for External affairs Gen VK Singh will attend — will be one of the few building in India to make use of geothermal wells to regulate temperature. The solar panels installed at the building will produce 200 kwh of energy a day. Modi has met Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi a football. The football had SDG — sustainable development goals — inscribed on it. Last year, Modi met Solberg during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17, 2018. More than 100 Norwegian companies have invested in India in areas such as ship building, petroleum-related services, hydropower, clean energy and IT services. Several major Indian companies are also present in Norway. A total of 12,924 Indians (9,485 PIOs and 3,439 NRIs) live in Norway. According to figures from Norway's Immigration Department, India has become the leading source of skilled foreign professionals working in Norway. Between 2005 and 2014, the number of skilled professionals from India working in Norway went up from 100 to about 2,000.

Norway PM to land in India on Monday, green solutions will be on her agenda

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