Congress chief Rahul Gandhi asked Tuesday why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was silent on charges of corruption against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and his family.

Addressing a rally in Kharsia Assembly constituency in Raigarh district in the poll-bound state, Gandhi claimed the Prime Minister did not speak about corruption anymore.

"In civil supply scam of Rs 36,000 crore, names of Raman Singh and his wife surfaced. Rs 5,000 chit fund scam took place under the protection of the Raman Singh government," he alleged.

"His (Singh's) son Abhishek Singh was named in Panama papers scandal, but no action was taken in any of these cases," the Congress chief alleged.

"Prime minister Modi used to speak about corruption in his speeches earlier, but why he does not speak about the corruption of Raman Singh and his family? Why Raman Singh too is silent over corruption," he asked.

The ruling BJP has denied the allegations of corruption against the chief minister and his family.

Gandhi campaigned for Congress candidate and incumbent MLA from Kharsia, Umesh Patel, Tuesday.

Patel's father Nandkumar Patel, then state Congress chief, was killed in a Naxal attack in Jhiram valley in Bastar's Darbha area on May 25, 2013.

Remembering Nandkumar Patel, Gandhi accused Modi of insulting the martyrdom of Congress leaders who died in the Naxal attack.

He was apparently referring to the prime minister's recent speech in Bastar where he had accused Congress leaders of supporting urban Naxals.

The Congress chief reiterated his allegation that the Modi government took away the Rafale fighter jets contract from the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and gave it to industrialist Anil Ambani.

"Modi ji handed over Rs 30,000 crore to Anil Ambani which was your money," Gandhi claimed.

Both the government as well as Ambani have denied the allegations of grant of undue favour to Ambani's firm in the Rafale deal.

The Congress president promised loan waiver to farmers in the state.

"After the Congress government is formed in the state, we will waive the loans of farmers within ten days," he said.

Gandhi&nbsp;said farmers would get a bonus on paddy procurement, and the bonus pending for two years, which the BJP government had promised but not paid, would be disbursed.

On Monday, polling was held in eighteen constituencies of Naxal-affected districts of Chhattisgarh. Remaining 72 seats will go to polls on November 20.&nbsp;

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi asked Tuesday why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was silent on charges of corruption against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and his family.

Congress chief Rahul Gandhi asked Tuesday why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was silent on charges of corruption against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh and his family. Addressing a rally in Kharsia Assembly constituency in Raigarh district in the poll-bound state, Gandhi claimed the Prime Minister did not speak about corruption anymore. "In civil supply scam of Rs 36,000 crore, names of Raman Singh and his wife surfaced. Rs 5,000 chit fund scam took place under the protection of the Raman Singh government," he alleged. "His (Singh's) son Abhishek Singh was named in Panama papers scandal, but no action was taken in any of these cases," the Congress chief alleged. "Prime minister Modi used to speak about corruption in his speeches earlier, but why he does not speak about the corruption of Raman Singh and his family? Why Raman Singh too is silent over corruption," he asked. The ruling BJP has denied the allegations of corruption against the chief minister and his family. Gandhi campaigned for Congress candidate and incumbent MLA from Kharsia, Umesh Patel, Tuesday. Patel's father Nandkumar Patel, then state Congress chief, was killed in a Naxal attack in Jhiram valley in Bastar's Darbha area on May 25, 2013. Remembering Nandkumar Patel, Gandhi accused Modi of insulting the martyrdom of Congress leaders who died in the Naxal attack. He was apparently referring to the prime minister's recent speech in Bastar where he had accused Congress leaders of supporting urban Naxals. The Congress chief reiterated his allegation that the Modi government took away the Rafale fighter jets contract from the state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and gave it to industrialist Anil Ambani. "Modi ji handed over Rs 30,000 crore to Anil Ambani which was your money," Gandhi claimed. Both the government as well as Ambani have denied the allegations of grant of undue favour to Ambani's firm in the Rafale deal. The Congress president promised loan waiver to farmers in the state. "After the Congress government is formed in the state, we will waive the loans of farmers within ten days," he said. Gandhi said farmers would get a bonus on paddy procurement, and the bonus pending for two years, which the BJP government had promised but not paid, would be disbursed. On Monday, polling was held in eighteen constituencies of Naxal-affected districts of Chhattisgarh. Remaining 72 seats will go to polls on November 20.

Why is PM mum on corruption chages against Raman Singh: Rahul Gandhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have a number of high-profile multilateral and bilateral meetings with global leaders including US Vice President Mike Pence and Singapore premier Lee Hsein Loong during his two-day visit here beginning Wednesday, Indian officials said Tuesday.

PM Modi, who will be here on November 14 and 15 at the invitation of Prime Minister Lee, will attend the ASEAN-India Breakfast Summit, India's High Commission here said in a statement.

He will also attend the 13th East Asia Summit (EAS) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Summit hosted by Singapore as the current Chair of ASEAN grouping.

"The ASEAN-India Breakfast Summit at Singapore will provide an opportunity to review progress in the relationship," the statement said.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will have a bilateral meeting with his Singapore counterpart Lee.

On the margins of these Summits, Modi will hold bilateral meetings with other leaders.

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On 14Nov,I'll have the honour to be the first Head of Govt to deliver Keynote Address at Singapore Fintech Festival. It is the right forum not only to showcase India's strengths in this fast-growing sector, but also to forge global partnerships for fostering innovation&amp;growth: PM
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Prime Minister Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with US Vice President Pence on November 14, the Ministry of External Affairs said in New Delhi.

The White House said last week that Pence and Modi would discuss the India-US defence cooperation and the bilateral relationship during their meeting in Singapore.

As strategic partners, India and ASEAN enjoy close trade and economic relations. Trade between India and ASEAN stood at $81.33 billion in 2017-18 and constitutes

10.58 per cent of India's total trade. Exports to ASEAN countries constitute 11.28 per cent of India's total exports.

In January, India hosted ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit to celebrate 25 years of Dialogue Partnership, 15 years of Summit Level interaction and 5 years of Strategic Partnership.

In an unprecedented gesture, all 10 ASEAN Leaders attended the Commemorative Summit and graced the Republic Day celebrations as Chief Guests.

During the Summit, leaders reviewed the whole range of ASEAN-India cooperation and adopted the Delhi Declaration.

The East Asia Summit is a premier leaders-led forum in the Indo-Pacific Region comprising of the 10 ASEAN member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam) and its eight dialogue partners - India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the US and Russia.

Since its inception in 2005, it has played an important role in reviewing political, security and economic developments in the Indo-Pacific region, the statement said.

"This will be Prime Minister's fifth engagement with EAS. At the 13th EAS, Prime Minister will join other leaders to discuss international developmental issues such as information and communications technology, smart cities, maritime cooperation, education, finance, food security, environment and energy at both the retreat and plenary sessions.

"They will also deliberate on global and regional issues of mutual interest," the statement said.

PM Modi will attend the RCEP Summit to review the progress made on the negotiations presently underway to finalise the RCEP, a proposed free trade agreement presently being negotiated amongst 16 countries -- 10 ASEAN member-states and India, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.

The agreement, once finalised, will cover 45 per cent of the world population, 40 per cent of the world trade and 34 per cent of the global GDP amounting to $21.3 trillion.

Since the commencement of negotiations in 2012, considerable progress has been achieved during the 24 rounds of negotiations at experts' level and 12 Ministerial Sessions.

"India remains committed to a forward-looking and balanced outcome that results in a modern, comprehensive, high quality and mutually beneficial economic partnership," the statement said.

On November 14, Modi will deliver a keynote address at the Fintech Festival- the first Head of Government to do so.

The festival, now in its third edition, is one of the largest events on financial technology and will see participation from Indian companies as well, the statement said.

On the same day, he will felicitate the winners and participants of India-Singapore Hackathon conducted by the All India Council for Technical Education and Nanyang Technological University of Singapore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have a number of high-profile multilateral and bilateral meetings with global leaders including US Vice President Mike Pence and Singapore premier Lee Hsein Loong during his two-day visit here beginning Wednesday, Indian officials said Tuesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will have a number of high-profile multilateral and bilateral meetings with global leaders including US Vice President Mike Pence and Singapore premier Lee Hsein Loong during his two-day visit here beginning Wednesday, Indian officials said Tuesday. PM Modi, who will be here on November 14 and 15 at the invitation of Prime Minister Lee, will attend the ASEAN-India Breakfast Summit, India's High Commission here said in a statement. He will also attend the 13th East Asia Summit (EAS) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Summit hosted by Singapore as the current Chair of ASEAN grouping. "The ASEAN-India Breakfast Summit at Singapore will provide an opportunity to review progress in the relationship," the statement said. During the visit, Prime Minister Modi will have a bilateral meeting with his Singapore counterpart Lee. On the margins of these Summits, Modi will hold bilateral meetings with other leaders. On 14Nov,I'll have the honour to be the first Head of Govt to deliver Keynote Address at Singapore Fintech Festival. It is the right forum not only to showcase India's strengths in this fast-growing sector, but also to forge global partnerships for fostering innovation&growth: PM — ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2018 × Prime Minister Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with US Vice President Pence on November 14, the Ministry of External Affairs said in New Delhi. The White House said last week that Pence and Modi would discuss the India-US defence cooperation and the bilateral relationship during their meeting in Singapore. As strategic partners, India and ASEAN enjoy close trade and economic relations. Trade between India and ASEAN stood at $81.33 billion in 2017-18 and constitutes 10.58 per cent of India's total trade. Exports to ASEAN countries constitute 11.28 per cent of India's total exports. In January, India hosted ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit to celebrate 25 years of Dialogue Partnership, 15 years of Summit Level interaction and 5 years of Strategic Partnership. In an unprecedented gesture, all 10 ASEAN Leaders attended the Commemorative Summit and graced the Republic Day celebrations as Chief Guests. During the Summit, leaders reviewed the whole range of ASEAN-India cooperation and adopted the Delhi Declaration. The East Asia Summit is a premier leaders-led forum in the Indo-Pacific Region comprising of the 10 ASEAN member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam) and its eight dialogue partners - India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the US and Russia. Since its inception in 2005, it has played an important role in reviewing political, security and economic developments in the Indo-Pacific region, the statement said. "This will be Prime Minister's fifth engagement with EAS. At the 13th EAS, Prime Minister will join other leaders to discuss international developmental issues such as information and communications technology, smart cities, maritime cooperation, education, finance, food security, environment and energy at both the retreat and plenary sessions. "They will also deliberate on global and regional issues of mutual interest," the statement said. PM Modi will attend the RCEP Summit to review the progress made on the negotiations presently underway to finalise the RCEP, a proposed free trade agreement presently being negotiated amongst 16 countries -- 10 ASEAN member-states and India, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. The agreement, once finalised, will cover 45 per cent of the world population, 40 per cent of the world trade and 34 per cent of the global GDP amounting to $21.3 trillion. Since the commencement of negotiations in 2012, considerable progress has been achieved during the 24 rounds of negotiations at experts' level and 12 Ministerial Sessions. "India remains committed to a forward-looking and balanced outcome that results in a modern, comprehensive, high quality and mutually beneficial economic partnership," the statement said. On November 14, Modi will deliver a keynote address at the Fintech Festival- the first Head of Government to do so. The festival, now in its third edition, is one of the largest events on financial technology and will see participation from Indian companies as well, the statement said. On the same day, he will felicitate the winners and participants of India-Singapore Hackathon conducted by the All India Council for Technical Education and Nanyang Technological University of Singapore.

PM Modi to have jam-packed schedule in Singapore, will meet US VP Mike Pence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reached Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to inaugurate a slew of development projects. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

According to reports, PM Modi inaugurated country's first multi-modal terminal on inland waterways in Varanasi on river Ganga. The Prime Minister also received the country's first container cargo transported on inland waterways from Kolkata. This was the first time that a container vessel travelled on inland waterways on river Ganga.&nbsp;

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Kuch der pehle maine nadi marg se pahunche desh ke pehle container vessel ka swagat kiya. Ye container vessel chalne ka matlab hai ki poorvi uttar pradesh, aur purvi bharat jalmarg se ab Bengal ki khaadi se jud gaya hai: PM Modi in Varanasi <a href="https://t.co/axmanr1THb">pic.twitter.com/axmanr1THb</a>
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The terminal is being constructed on the National Waterway-1 (river Ganga) as part of the World Bank-aided Jal Marg Vikas project of the Inland Waterways Authority of India.&nbsp;National Waterway-1, an inland water transport route, stretches between Haldia in West Bengal to Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh.

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Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the first multi modal terminal constructed on River Ganga <a href="https://t.co/ozfx2HQvdv">pic.twitter.com/ozfx2HQvdv</a>
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The total estimated cost of the project is Rs 5,369.18 crore, which will be equally shared between the Government of India and the World Bank, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

PM Modi's Varanasi visit comes ahead of Lok Sabha polls scheduled next year. Earlier in the day, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-politics-begins-and-ends-with-one-family-pm-modi-in-bilaspur-chhattisgarh-176829">he visited poll-bound Chhattisgarh's Bilaspu</a>r and addressed a rally ahead of the second phase of elections in the BJP-led state.

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Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the first multi modal terminal constructed on River Ganga <a href="https://t.co/qH3eSE9fL6">pic.twitter.com/qH3eSE9fL6</a>
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As many as 18 assembly constituencies, out of a total of 90, have gone to polls today in the first phase of the electoral fight marred by Naxal attacks.

The voter turnout in the first phase of Chhattisgarh assembly election on Monday was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chhattisgarh-assembly-polls-nearly-50-voter-turnout-recorded-till-3pm-176837">recorded at 56.58 per cent till 4.30pm</a>. By 2pm the same was recorded at nearly 38 per cent, the figure rose to nearly 50 per cent by 3pm.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reached Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to inaugurate a slew of development projects. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reached Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to inaugurate a slew of development projects. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. According to reports, PM Modi inaugurated country's first multi-modal terminal on inland waterways in Varanasi on river Ganga. The Prime Minister also received the country's first container cargo transported on inland waterways from Kolkata. This was the first time that a container vessel travelled on inland waterways on river Ganga. Kuch der pehle maine nadi marg se pahunche desh ke pehle container vessel ka swagat kiya. Ye container vessel chalne ka matlab hai ki poorvi uttar pradesh, aur purvi bharat jalmarg se ab Bengal ki khaadi se jud gaya hai: PM Modi in Varanasi pic.twitter.com/axmanr1THb — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 12, 2018 × The terminal is being constructed on the National Waterway-1 (river Ganga) as part of the World Bank-aided Jal Marg Vikas project of the Inland Waterways Authority of India. National Waterway-1, an inland water transport route, stretches between Haldia in West Bengal to Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the first multi modal terminal constructed on River Ganga pic.twitter.com/ozfx2HQvdv — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 12, 2018 × The total estimated cost of the project is Rs 5,369.18 crore, which will be equally shared between the Government of India and the World Bank, news agency PTI reported. PM Modi's Varanasi visit comes ahead of Lok Sabha polls scheduled next year. Earlier in the day, he visited poll-bound Chhattisgarh's Bilaspur and addressed a rally ahead of the second phase of elections in the BJP-led state. Varanasi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the first multi modal terminal constructed on River Ganga pic.twitter.com/qH3eSE9fL6 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 12, 2018 × As many as 18 assembly constituencies, out of a total of 90, have gone to polls today in the first phase of the electoral fight marred by Naxal attacks. The voter turnout in the first phase of Chhattisgarh assembly election on Monday was recorded at 56.58 per cent till 4.30pm. By 2pm the same was recorded at nearly 38 per cent, the figure rose to nearly 50 per cent by 3pm. (With inputs from agencies)

In parliamentary constituency Varanasi, PM Modi inaugurates National Waterway-1 on river Ganga

PM Modi to meet US vice president Mike Pence in Singapore

PM Modi inaugurates new terminal over Ganga river in Varanasi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday attacked the Congress, targeting its president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia, saying the party's "politics begins and ends with one family".

Addressing a poll rally here ahead of the second phase polling in the state on November 20, PM Modi also made a strong pitch for development, saying the pace of development under the Congress regime in the state was "far slow" than the one under the BJP-led government.

Singling out the Gandhis, PM Modi said the "mother-son duo" was out on bail and hit out at them for questioning the government's demonetisation move. "They forget it was due to demonetisation that they had to seek bail," PM Modi said, adding "those seeking bail are giving a certificate to PM Modi".

PM Modi asserted the BJP was for development and that it was due to this commitment that the opposition was unable to understand how to compete with the ruling party in elections.

He also targeted the Congress president, saying when Congress released its 36-point manifesto for Chhattisgarh polls, Naamdaar (Rahul Gandhi) was referred to as Sir 150 times which shows he is more important for them (Congress) than Chhattisgarh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday attacked the Congress, targeting its president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia, saying the party's "politics begins and ends with one family".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday attacked the Congress, targeting its president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia, saying the party's "politics begins and ends with one family". Addressing a poll rally here ahead of the second phase polling in the state on November 20, PM Modi also made a strong pitch for development, saying the pace of development under the Congress regime in the state was "far slow" than the one under the BJP-led government. Singling out the Gandhis, PM Modi said the "mother-son duo" was out on bail and hit out at them for questioning the government's demonetisation move. "They forget it was due to demonetisation that they had to seek bail," PM Modi said, adding "those seeking bail are giving a certificate to PM Modi". PM Modi asserted the BJP was for development and that it was due to this commitment that the opposition was unable to understand how to compete with the ruling party in elections. He also targeted the Congress president, saying when Congress released its 36-point manifesto for Chhattisgarh polls, Naamdaar (Rahul Gandhi) was referred to as Sir 150 times which shows he is more important for them (Congress) than Chhattisgarh.

Congress politics begins and ends with one family: PM Modi in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday attacked the Congress, targeting its president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia, saying the party's "politics begins and ends with one family".

Addressing a poll rally in Chhattisgarh&nbsp;ahead of the second phase polling in the state on November 20, PM Modi also made a strong pitch for development, saying the pace of development under the Congress regime in the state was "far slow" than the one under the BJP-led government.

Singling out the Gandhis, Modi said the "mother-son duo" were out on bail and hit out at them for questioning the government's demonetisation move.&nbsp;

"They forget it was due to demonetisation that they had to seek bail," Modi said, adding "those seeking bail are giving certificate to Modi".

Modi asserted the BJP was for development and that it was due to this commitment that the opposition was unable to understand how to compete with ruling party in elections.

He also targeted the Congress president, saying when Congress released its 36-point manifesto for Chhattisgarh polls, 'Naamdaar' (Rahul Gandhi) was referred to as 'Sir' 150 times which shows he is more important for them (Congress) than Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday attacked the Congress, targeting its president Rahul Gandhi and his mother Sonia, saying the party's "politics begins and ends with one family". Addressing a poll rally in Chhattisgarh ahead of the second phase polling in the state on November 20, PM Modi also made a strong pitch for development, saying the pace of development under the Congress regime in the state was "far slow" than the one under the BJP-led government. Singling out the Gandhis, Modi said the "mother-son duo" were out on bail and hit out at them for questioning the government's demonetisation move. "They forget it was due to demonetisation that they had to seek bail," Modi said, adding "those seeking bail are giving certificate to Modi". Modi asserted the BJP was for development and that it was due to this commitment that the opposition was unable to understand how to compete with ruling party in elections. He also targeted the Congress president, saying when Congress released its 36-point manifesto for Chhattisgarh polls, 'Naamdaar' (Rahul Gandhi) was referred to as 'Sir' 150 times which shows he is more important for them (Congress) than Chhattisgarh.

PM Modi attacks Sonia, Rahul Gandhi in Chhattisgarh poll rally

Much has been written about Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating a 182-metre statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Great Unifier of India. While the more obvious political explanation for the move to erect the world's tallest statue is linked to one of his party's pet themes - Nehru family bashing - a closer look would reveal that at play is an aspect of his politics that is not discussed enough: Gujarati pride. Kevadiya, the town of only 6,800 people that is nearest to the statue on the banks of the Narmada river, has an immediate political significance as well.

While the Hindi belt has officially dominated Indian democratic politics since Independence, the fact is that Gujarat had given three major leaders shaping modern India before Modi came on the scene: Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel and Morarji Desai.

Patel welded 562 princely states into a modern republic after Gandhi led the Indian National Congress that spearheaded the movement to win freedom from British rule. Patel's differences with Nehru were healthy and not serious but have provided political ammunition to Nehru bashers six decades later, who act in the belief that the younger generation will see the differences as a deep rift.

Desai came much later but had his own significance. As the prime minister who headed India's first non-Congress government for two years from 1977, Desai was important because his rule came after a brutal Emergency rule under Indira Gandhi. Perhaps even more important, Indira's rise a decade earlier had pitted Desai against her within the Congress before she split the nation's leading party in a populist upsurge backed by a slew of left-wing parties and groups. The Statue of Unity in that sense represents a lineage of differences within the Congress involving towering Gujaratis.

Modi's politics has three different strains. First, is, of course, the Hindutva ideology of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of he has been a long-time soldier. Second is a modern face that stresses clean governance, decisive policy-making and industrialisation. The third and the least spoken about is Gujarati pride.

I have reasons to believe that Modi's attempt to appropriate the late Congress leader, Sardar Patel, despite Patel's criticism of RSS and its ways, is an attempt to project himself in the lineage of a great Gujarati.&nbsp;

Modi knows that no national leader can command a huge following when his own base is not safe. While Gujarat is still under the BJP with Modi's loyalists in power, the last assembly election that saw an eroded party strength and the rise of young anti-BJP leaders like Jignesh Melvani and Hardik Patel showed that he can take nothing for granted in the state that has 26 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. The Statue of Unity in that sense speaks for Gujarati unity in a charged political atmosphere.

Modi needs every trick in the bag to tower over Gujarat. Standing at the foot of a giant statue of Sardar Patel in an interior part of the state has strong visual symbolism. The younger generation will see him not just as a spunky small-town tea-seller who made it big as a national leader in India but as one who belongs in a great lineage. Modi knows that in a dynamically changing India, Hindutva has limited value, and his own 'Moditva' that crafts his own cocktail of a personality cult and a slew of slogans and promises would be vital if he has to maintain his front-running role in a volatile democracy of more than 100 crore people. Locating himself in a grand lineage strengthens the Moditva plank.

In the shifting sands of coalition politics in India, Modi cannot afford to play the hardline Hindu card the way the Bharatiya Janata Party played in the high noon of the Ram Mandir movement in the 1990s. Having tried to register his mark as a modern international leader, he needs 'Moditva' with a populist twist. As things stand, local populism based on Gujarati pride works far better - and is a lot less risky - than any plank that deepens Hindu-Muslim divides. Modi simply cannot afford divisive politics anymore, as he has arrived on the national scene already and stands to gain more from cementing divides than fomenting them.&nbsp;

A healthy regional pride is accepted worldwide more than religious parochialism. The Rs 2,989-crore statue of Patel gives Modi an architectural marvel that stands for many things at once: Gujarati pride, ambition, tradition, novelty and creativity. Even if Modi appears small in front of the statue in carefully crafted photographs, he will be seen by Gujarati youth as an inheritor of values of the Grand Unifier. That hopefully enhances Modi's prospects in his home state, even as the BJP struggles to hold on to power in its other strongholds: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/why-a-giant-sardar-patel-statue-is-a-key-piece-in-pm-modis-political-calculation-2154155.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

Much has been written about Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating a 182-metre statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Great Unifier of India. While the more obvious political explanation for the move to erect the world's tallest statue is linked to one of his party's pet themes - Nehru family bashing - a closer look would reveal that at play is an aspect of his politics that is not discussed enough: Gujarati pride.

Much has been written about Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurating a 182-metre statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Great Unifier of India. While the more obvious political explanation for the move to erect the world's tallest statue is linked to one of his party's pet themes - Nehru family bashing - a closer look would reveal that at play is an aspect of his politics that is not discussed enough: Gujarati pride. Kevadiya, the town of only 6,800 people that is nearest to the statue on the banks of the Narmada river, has an immediate political significance as well. While the Hindi belt has officially dominated Indian democratic politics since Independence, the fact is that Gujarat had given three major leaders shaping modern India before Modi came on the scene: Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel and Morarji Desai. Patel welded 562 princely states into a modern republic after Gandhi led the Indian National Congress that spearheaded the movement to win freedom from British rule. Patel's differences with Nehru were healthy and not serious but have provided political ammunition to Nehru bashers six decades later, who act in the belief that the younger generation will see the differences as a deep rift. Desai came much later but had his own significance. As the prime minister who headed India's first non-Congress government for two years from 1977, Desai was important because his rule came after a brutal Emergency rule under Indira Gandhi. Perhaps even more important, Indira's rise a decade earlier had pitted Desai against her within the Congress before she split the nation's leading party in a populist upsurge backed by a slew of left-wing parties and groups. The Statue of Unity in that sense represents a lineage of differences within the Congress involving towering Gujaratis. Modi's politics has three different strains. First, is, of course, the Hindutva ideology of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) of he has been a long-time soldier. Second is a modern face that stresses clean governance, decisive policy-making and industrialisation. The third and the least spoken about is Gujarati pride. I have reasons to believe that Modi's attempt to appropriate the late Congress leader, Sardar Patel, despite Patel's criticism of RSS and its ways, is an attempt to project himself in the lineage of a great Gujarati. Modi knows that no national leader can command a huge following when his own base is not safe. While Gujarat is still under the BJP with Modi's loyalists in power, the last assembly election that saw an eroded party strength and the rise of young anti-BJP leaders like Jignesh Melvani and Hardik Patel showed that he can take nothing for granted in the state that has 26 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. The Statue of Unity in that sense speaks for Gujarati unity in a charged political atmosphere. Modi needs every trick in the bag to tower over Gujarat. Standing at the foot of a giant statue of Sardar Patel in an interior part of the state has strong visual symbolism. The younger generation will see him not just as a spunky small-town tea-seller who made it big as a national leader in India but as one who belongs in a great lineage. Modi knows that in a dynamically changing India, Hindutva has limited value, and his own 'Moditva' that crafts his own cocktail of a personality cult and a slew of slogans and promises would be vital if he has to maintain his front-running role in a volatile democracy of more than 100 crore people. Locating himself in a grand lineage strengthens the Moditva plank. In the shifting sands of coalition politics in India, Modi cannot afford to play the hardline Hindu card the way the Bharatiya Janata Party played in the high noon of the Ram Mandir movement in the 1990s. Having tried to register his mark as a modern international leader, he needs 'Moditva' with a populist twist. As things stand, local populism based on Gujarati pride works far better - and is a lot less risky - than any plank that deepens Hindu-Muslim divides. Modi simply cannot afford divisive politics anymore, as he has arrived on the national scene already and stands to gain more from cementing divides than fomenting them. A healthy regional pride is accepted worldwide more than religious parochialism. The Rs 2,989-crore statue of Patel gives Modi an architectural marvel that stands for many things at once: Gujarati pride, ambition, tradition, novelty and creativity. Even if Modi appears small in front of the statue in carefully crafted photographs, he will be seen by Gujarati youth as an inheritor of values of the Grand Unifier. That hopefully enhances Modi's prospects in his home state, even as the BJP struggles to hold on to power in its other strongholds: Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Why a giant Sardar Patel statue is a key piece in PM Modi's political calculation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hit out at the Congress saying that the party supports the urban Maoists "who&nbsp;have ruined the lives of poor Adivasi youth".

"The urban Maoists who live in air-conditioned homes in the cities, look clean and whose children study abroad, remote control the adivasi children in the Naxal dominated areas. I want to ask the Congress why it supports the urban Maoists when the government takes action against them and come to Bastar and speak against Naxalism," PM Modi said.

Addressing his first election rally in poll-bound&nbsp;Chhattisgarh, PM Modi also said he will not rest until he fulfils late Atal Bihari Vajpayee's dreams for a prosperous Chhattisgarh.

PM Modi said the Congress-led government did not do enough to develop the Naxal-infested Bastar region citing the Maoist menace.

"For 10 years, Congress was at the Centre, but they never paid attention to the needs of Chhattisgarh and blocked all development for the state. They never thought of the region's progress," PM Modi said.

"Will you forgive such people? These people will not win Chhattisgarh. I appeal to you to ensure that BJP wins all seats in the Bastar region. If anyone else wins, it will be a blot on Bastar's dreams," he added.

"I don't know why Congress makes fun of adivasis . Once I had gone for a rally to the Northeast of our country and there had worn a traditional adivasi headgear but Congress leaders made fun of that hat, it was an insult of adivasi culture" PM Modi said.

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I urge the people of Bastar to teach a fitting lesson to the Congress leaders, who on one hand try to shield the urban Maoists, and in Chhattisgarh, they speak about freeing the state from Maoists: PM Modi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChhattisgarhElections2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChhattisgarhElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/a7r5wjxKXN">pic.twitter.com/a7r5wjxKXN</a>
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"I urge the people of Bastar to teach a fitting lesson to the Congress leaders, who on one hand try to shield the urban Maoists, and in Chhattisgarh, they speak about freeing the state from Maoists", PM Modi said.

He further targetted the Congress party over the recent death of a cameraman in the state.

"A brave and innocent cameraman from DD, Achutyanand Sahu was killed by Maoists. Recently our valiant jawans were also martyred in an encounter with Maoists and for Congress party these Maoists are revolutionaries? What sort of vocabulary is this?".

Chhattisgarh will go to polls on November 12 and November 20. 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hit out at the Congress saying that the party supports the urban Maoists "who have ruined the lives of poor Adivasi youth".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hit out at the Congress saying that the party supports the urban Maoists "who have ruined the lives of poor Adivasi youth". "The urban Maoists who live in air-conditioned homes in the cities, look clean and whose children study abroad, remote control the adivasi children in the Naxal dominated areas. I want to ask the Congress why it supports the urban Maoists when the government takes action against them and come to Bastar and speak against Naxalism," PM Modi said. Addressing his first election rally in poll-bound Chhattisgarh, PM Modi also said he will not rest until he fulfils late Atal Bihari Vajpayee's dreams for a prosperous Chhattisgarh. PM Modi said the Congress-led government did not do enough to develop the Naxal-infested Bastar region citing the Maoist menace. "For 10 years, Congress was at the Centre, but they never paid attention to the needs of Chhattisgarh and blocked all development for the state. They never thought of the region's progress," PM Modi said. "Will you forgive such people? These people will not win Chhattisgarh. I appeal to you to ensure that BJP wins all seats in the Bastar region. If anyone else wins, it will be a blot on Bastar's dreams," he added. "I don't know why Congress makes fun of adivasis . Once I had gone for a rally to the Northeast of our country and there had worn a traditional adivasi headgear but Congress leaders made fun of that hat, it was an insult of adivasi culture" PM Modi said. I urge the people of Bastar to teach a fitting lesson to the Congress leaders, who on one hand try to shield the urban Maoists, and in Chhattisgarh, they speak about freeing the state from Maoists: PM Modi #ChhattisgarhElections2018 pic.twitter.com/a7r5wjxKXN — ANI (@ANI) November 9, 2018 × "I urge the people of Bastar to teach a fitting lesson to the Congress leaders, who on one hand try to shield the urban Maoists, and in Chhattisgarh, they speak about freeing the state from Maoists", PM Modi said. He further targetted the Congress party over the recent death of a cameraman in the state. "A brave and innocent cameraman from DD, Achutyanand Sahu was killed by Maoists. Recently our valiant jawans were also martyred in an encounter with Maoists and for Congress party these Maoists are revolutionaries? What sort of vocabulary is this?". Chhattisgarh will go to polls on November 12 and November 20.

Chhattisgarh polls: Congress supports urban Maoists, says PM Modi

The BJP's Telangana unit has sent proposals to its high command for organising three public meeting to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the forthcoming Assembly elections, the party's state president K Laxman said Thursday.

Speaking to reporters here, he said the partys national president Amit Shah is also expected to address a few more public meetings before the elections.

Polls will be held on December 7 for the Telangana Assembly.

"Arrangements are underway for three public meetings of Modi. Amit Shah is also expected once again. We requested the Prime Minister to participate at least in four meetings. Proposals have been sent for three meetings," Laxman said.

He claimed that the Congress-led grand alliance is marching towards "grand defeat" and the Amit Shah-led party is the only alternative to the people of Telangana for betterment.

"The grand alliance under the leadership of Congress is marching towards grand defeat. Parties with opposite ideologies are coming together and forging alliances. Congress and Kodandaram-led Telangana Jana Samithi are joining hands with Telugu Desam Party which is known as a betrayer of Telangana," Laxman told reporters.

Meanwhile, Yuva Telangana party leaders have met senior leaders of the BJP.

YTP president Jitta Balakrishna Reddy said his party had decided to work with the BJP for the Assembly polls.

When contacted, BJP Telangana's chief spokesperson Krishna Saagar Rao said Shah is expected to address five public meetings before the polls.

He, however, said the details are yet to be finalised and the proposals are yet to be approved.&nbsp; 
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The BJP's Telangana unit has sent proposals to its high command for organising three public meeting to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the forthcoming Assembly elections, the party's state president K Laxman said Thursday.

The BJP's Telangana unit has sent proposals to its high command for organising three public meeting to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the forthcoming Assembly elections, the party's state president K Laxman said Thursday. Speaking to reporters here, he said the partys national president Amit Shah is also expected to address a few more public meetings before the elections. Polls will be held on December 7 for the Telangana Assembly. "Arrangements are underway for three public meetings of Modi. Amit Shah is also expected once again. We requested the Prime Minister to participate at least in four meetings. Proposals have been sent for three meetings," Laxman said. He claimed that the Congress-led grand alliance is marching towards "grand defeat" and the Amit Shah-led party is the only alternative to the people of Telangana for betterment. "The grand alliance under the leadership of Congress is marching towards grand defeat. Parties with opposite ideologies are coming together and forging alliances. Congress and Kodandaram-led Telangana Jana Samithi are joining hands with Telugu Desam Party which is known as a betrayer of Telangana," Laxman told reporters. Meanwhile, Yuva Telangana party leaders have met senior leaders of the BJP. YTP president Jitta Balakrishna Reddy said his party had decided to work with the BJP for the Assembly polls. When contacted, BJP Telangana's chief spokesperson Krishna Saagar Rao said Shah is expected to address five public meetings before the polls. He, however, said the details are yet to be finalised and the proposals are yet to be approved.

Telangana polls: BJP sends proposals for PM Modi's public meetings

Former Finance Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday attacked PM Modi's government stating that the regime is trying "to 'capture' RBI ahead of Lok Sabha poll, this will be catastrophic."

He alleged that the government has packed the central bank's board with handpicked nominees, and was making every attempt to push through its proposals at the RBI board meeting on November 19.

"The government stares at a fiscal deficit crisis... The government wants to step up the expenditure in an election year. Finding all avenues closed, in desperation, the government has demanded Rs 1 lakh crore from the reserves of RBI," the former finance minister said at a press conference.

If RBI Governor Urjit Patel stands his ground, the Centre was planning to issue a direction under Section 7 of the RBI Act, 1934, directing the apex bank to transfer Rs 1 lakh crore to the government's account, he claimed.

"The day of reckoning is November 19 when the RBI board is scheduled to meet. The government has packed the RBI board with its handpicked nominees and is making every attempt to ram through its proposal at the meeting," Chidambaram said.

"If the RBI either defies the government or RBI governor resigns, in either event, the consequence will be catastrophic," he added.

Chidambaram also added that state-wise alliances are going to benefit the Congress, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"State-wise alliances will benefit Congress, it is the best way to defeat BJP," he told media.&nbsp;

Chidambaram's comments came shortly after Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley claimed that confiscating money was not the aim of launching demonetisation, adding that the move led to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/demonetisation-led-to-formalisation-of-economy-expanded-tax-base-arun-jaitley-176171">formalisation of the economy and expanded tax base</a>.&nbsp;

The reactions came on the second anniversary of the demonetisation move that the Modi government undertook in the year 2016.&nbsp;

The demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in November 2016, Jaitley said, had resulted in more formalisation (of the economy), more revenue, more resources for the poor, better infrastructure, and a better quality of life for our citizens, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

The government had on November 8, 2016, announced a ban on old 500 and 1000 rupee notes, to curb black money in the system.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Former Finance Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday attacked PM Modi's government stating that the regime is trying "to 'capture' RBI ahead of Lok Sabha poll, this will be catastrophic.

Former Finance Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday attacked PM Modi's government stating that the regime is trying "to 'capture' RBI ahead of Lok Sabha poll, this will be catastrophic." He alleged that the government has packed the central bank's board with handpicked nominees, and was making every attempt to push through its proposals at the RBI board meeting on November 19. "The government stares at a fiscal deficit crisis... The government wants to step up the expenditure in an election year. Finding all avenues closed, in desperation, the government has demanded Rs 1 lakh crore from the reserves of RBI," the former finance minister said at a press conference. If RBI Governor Urjit Patel stands his ground, the Centre was planning to issue a direction under Section 7 of the RBI Act, 1934, directing the apex bank to transfer Rs 1 lakh crore to the government's account, he claimed. "The day of reckoning is November 19 when the RBI board is scheduled to meet. The government has packed the RBI board with its handpicked nominees and is making every attempt to ram through its proposal at the meeting," Chidambaram said. "If the RBI either defies the government or RBI governor resigns, in either event, the consequence will be catastrophic," he added. Chidambaram also added that state-wise alliances are going to benefit the Congress, news agency ANI reported. "State-wise alliances will benefit Congress, it is the best way to defeat BJP," he told media. Chidambaram's comments came shortly after Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley claimed that confiscating money was not the aim of launching demonetisation, adding that the move led to the formalisation of the economy and expanded tax base. The reactions came on the second anniversary of the demonetisation move that the Modi government undertook in the year 2016. The demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in November 2016, Jaitley said, had resulted in more formalisation (of the economy), more revenue, more resources for the poor, better infrastructure, and a better quality of life for our citizens, news agency PTI reported. The government had on November 8, 2016, announced a ban on old 500 and 1000 rupee notes, to curb black money in the system. (With inputs from agencies)

Government trying to capture RBI ahead of Lok Sabha polls: P Chidambaram

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Harsil near the India-China border in Uttarakhand to celebrate Diwali with Army and ITBP personnel on Wednesday.

Greeting the jawans on the occasion, the prime minister said their devotion to duty in the remote icy heights, is enabling the strength of the nation, and securing the future and the dreams of 125 crore Indians, a statement from his office said.

He said that Diwali is the festival of lights, it spreads the light of goodness and dispels fear. He said that the jawans, through their commitment and discipline, are also helping to spread the sense of security and fearlessness among the people.

The prime minister recalled that he has been visiting soldiers on Diwali ever since he was the chief minister of Gujarat.

He also spoke of his interactions with the jawans of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), years ago when he was part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.&nbsp;

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While interacting with Army and <a href="https://twitter.com/ITBP_official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ITBP_official</a> Jawans in Harsil, spoke about the numerous steps being taken by the Government of India for the strengthening of the defence sector, welfare of ex-servicemen and highlighted how Indian forces are admired globally for the skills. <a href="https://t.co/DFAuJfrQwy">pic.twitter.com/DFAuJfrQwy</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1060049142133727232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 7, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister said India is taking great strides forward in the defence sector. He spoke of various measures being taken for the welfare of ex-servicemen, including implementation of 'one rank, one pension' (OROP).

Modi said that the Indian Armed Forces draw admiration and appreciation across the world, in UN peacekeeping operations.

The prime minister offered sweets to the jawans. He also interacted with people from nearby areas who had gathered to greet him on Diwali.

Harshil is a cantonment area situated at a height of 7,860 feet close to the India-China border in Uttarkashi district.

The prime minister is scheduled to go to Kedarnath later in the day to offer prayers and review the progress of reconstruction projects at Kedarpuri.

Kedarpuri, the township situated close to the Himalayan shrine, had bore the brunt of the catastrophic floods of 2013 which killed thousands of people.

Responding to Diwali greeting from Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday night, Modi had said, "Every year, I visit our border areas and surprise our troops. This year too, will spend Diwali with our brave troops. Spending time with them is special."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Harsil near the India-China border in Uttarakhand to celebrate Diwali with Army and ITBP personnel on Wednesday. Greeting the jawans on the occasion, the prime minister said their devotion to duty in the remote icy heights, is enabling the strength of the nation, and securing the future and the dreams of 125 crore Indians, a statement from his office said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Harsil near the India-China border in Uttarakhand to celebrate Diwali with Army and ITBP personnel on Wednesday. Greeting the jawans on the occasion, the prime minister said their devotion to duty in the remote icy heights, is enabling the strength of the nation, and securing the future and the dreams of 125 crore Indians, a statement from his office said. He said that Diwali is the festival of lights, it spreads the light of goodness and dispels fear. He said that the jawans, through their commitment and discipline, are also helping to spread the sense of security and fearlessness among the people. The prime minister recalled that he has been visiting soldiers on Diwali ever since he was the chief minister of Gujarat. He also spoke of his interactions with the jawans of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), years ago when he was part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. While interacting with Army and @ITBP_official Jawans in Harsil, spoke about the numerous steps being taken by the Government of India for the strengthening of the defence sector, welfare of ex-servicemen and highlighted how Indian forces are admired globally for the skills. pic.twitter.com/DFAuJfrQwy — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 7, 2018 × The prime minister said India is taking great strides forward in the defence sector. He spoke of various measures being taken for the welfare of ex-servicemen, including implementation of 'one rank, one pension' (OROP). Modi said that the Indian Armed Forces draw admiration and appreciation across the world, in UN peacekeeping operations. The prime minister offered sweets to the jawans. He also interacted with people from nearby areas who had gathered to greet him on Diwali. Harshil is a cantonment area situated at a height of 7,860 feet close to the India-China border in Uttarkashi district. The prime minister is scheduled to go to Kedarnath later in the day to offer prayers and review the progress of reconstruction projects at Kedarpuri. Kedarpuri, the township situated close to the Himalayan shrine, had bore the brunt of the catastrophic floods of 2013 which killed thousands of people. Responding to Diwali greeting from Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday night, Modi had said, "Every year, I visit our border areas and surprise our troops. This year too, will spend Diwali with our brave troops. Spending time with them is special."

PM celebrates Diwali with soldiers in Harshil near India-China border

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said he would celebrate Diwali with Army jawans and share pictures of his experience.

Responding to Diwali greetings from Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi said, "Every year, I visit our border areas and surprise our troops. This year too, will spend Diwali with our brave troops. Spending time with them is special."

He said he would share the photos of the same Wednesday evening.

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Bibi, my friend, thank you so much for the Diwali wishes. 
 
Every year, I visit our border areas and surprise our troops. This year too, will spend Diwali with our brave troops. Spending time with them is special. 
 
I will share photos of the same tomorrow evening. :) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@netanyahu</a> <a href="https://t.co/gnouOA3QGt">https://t.co/gnouOA3QGt</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1059842760159694849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Modi also thanked Bibi, as Netanyahu is called, for the Diwali wishes.

Sources in the government had Monday said that the prime minister would offer prayers at the Kedarnath shrine on Wednesday.

"On behalf of the people of Israel, I would like to wish my dear friend @narendramodi and the people of India a joyous Diwali. May this luminous festival of lights bring you happiness and prosperity. Reply to this tweet with the name of the city where you're celebrating!," the Israel premier had tweeted.

After becoming the prime minister in 2014, Modi had spent Diwali at Siachen with Army jawans.

In 2015, he had visited the Punjab border on Diwali. His visit had coincided with 50 years of the 1965 Indo-Pak war.

The next year, Modi was in Himachal Pradesh, where he spent time with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel at a border outpost.

He had spent his fourth Diwali as prime minister with soldiers at Gurez in Jammu and Kashmir last year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said he would celebrate Diwali with Army jawans and share pictures of his experience. Responding to Diwali greetings from Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi said, "Every year, I visit our border areas and surprise our troops.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said he would celebrate Diwali with Army jawans and share pictures of his experience. Responding to Diwali greetings from Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Modi said, "Every year, I visit our border areas and surprise our troops. This year too, will spend Diwali with our brave troops. Spending time with them is special." He said he would share the photos of the same Wednesday evening. Bibi, my friend, thank you so much for the Diwali wishes. Every year, I visit our border areas and surprise our troops. This year too, will spend Diwali with our brave troops. Spending time with them is special. I will share photos of the same tomorrow evening. :) @netanyahu https://t.co/gnouOA3QGt — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 6, 2018 × Modi also thanked Bibi, as Netanyahu is called, for the Diwali wishes. Sources in the government had Monday said that the prime minister would offer prayers at the Kedarnath shrine on Wednesday. "On behalf of the people of Israel, I would like to wish my dear friend @narendramodi and the people of India a joyous Diwali. May this luminous festival of lights bring you happiness and prosperity. Reply to this tweet with the name of the city where you're celebrating!," the Israel premier had tweeted. After becoming the prime minister in 2014, Modi had spent Diwali at Siachen with Army jawans. In 2015, he had visited the Punjab border on Diwali. His visit had coincided with 50 years of the 1965 Indo-Pak war. The next year, Modi was in Himachal Pradesh, where he spent time with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel at a border outpost. He had spent his fourth Diwali as prime minister with soldiers at Gurez in Jammu and Kashmir last year.

PM Modi in Kedarnath today, will spend Diwali with soldiers

Strategic Strike Nuclear Submarine (SSBN) INS Arihant, India's nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, successfully completed its first successful deterrence patrol on Monday.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, lauded the accomplishment calling it “historic” and a “fitting response to those who indulge in nuclear blackmail.”

"The success of INS Arihant is a big step towards strengthening national security. For the country's enemies, it is an open challenge. It is a fitting response to those indulging in nuclear blackmail, credible nuclear deterrence is the need of the hour," PM Modi said.

"Dhanteras gets even more special! India's pride, nuclear submarine INS Arihant successfully completed its first deterrence patrol! I congratulate all those involved, especially the crew of INS Arihant for this accomplishment, which will always be remembered in our history," Prime Minister tweeted.

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Dhanteras gets even more special! 
 
India’s pride, nuclear submarine INS Arihant successfully completed its first deterrence patrol! 
 
I congratulate all those involved, especially the crew of INS Arihant for this accomplishment, which will always be remembered in our history. <a href="https://t.co/tjeOj2cBdX">pic.twitter.com/tjeOj2cBdX</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1059361293579124736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Prime Minister outlined that this is a major achievement, adding that a credible nuclear deterrence is the need of the hour.

"The success of INS Arihant enhances India's security needs. It is a major achievement for our entire nation. True to its name, INS Arihant will protect the 130 crore Indians from external threats and contribute to the atmosphere of peace in the region. In an era such as this, a credible nuclear deterrence is the need of the hour. The success of INS Arihant gives a fitting response to those who indulge in nuclear blackmail", he tweeted.

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The success of INS Arihant enhances India’s security needs. 
 
It is a major achievement for our entire nation. 
 
True to its name, INS Arihant will protect the 130 crore Indians from external threats and contribute to the atmosphere of peace in the region.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1059361854332391425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2018</a></blockquote>
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A statement released by the Prime Minister Office also informed that the Prime Minister congratulated the crew and all those involved in the achievement which puts India among a handful of countries having the capability to design, construct and operate SSBNs.

"Prime Minister Modi commended the courage and commitment of India's brave soldiers and the talent and perseverance of its scientists, whose untiring efforts transformed the scientific achievement of nuclear tests into establishment of an immensely complex and credible nuclear triad, and dispelled all doubts and questions about India's capability and resolve in this regard," the statement read.

Drawing a comparison with the festival of light, Diwali, the Prime Minister expressed hope that just as light dispels darkness and fear, INS Arihant will be the harbinger of fearlessness for the country.

Reiterating India's commitment to the doctrine of Credible Minimum Deterrence and No First Use, the statement read, "As a responsible nation, India has put in place a robust nuclear command and control structure, effective safety assurance architecture and strict political control, under its Nuclear Command Authority. It remains committed to the doctrine of Credible Minimum Deterrence and No First Use, as enshrined in the decision taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security in its meeting chaired by the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on January 04, 2003.

(With inputs from ANI)

Strategic Strike Nuclear Submarine (SSBN) INS Arihant, India's nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, successfully completed its first successful deterrence patrol on Monday.

Strategic Strike Nuclear Submarine (SSBN) INS Arihant, India's nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, successfully completed its first successful deterrence patrol on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, lauded the accomplishment calling it “historic” and a “fitting response to those who indulge in nuclear blackmail.” "The success of INS Arihant is a big step towards strengthening national security. For the country's enemies, it is an open challenge. It is a fitting response to those indulging in nuclear blackmail, credible nuclear deterrence is the need of the hour," PM Modi said. "Dhanteras gets even more special! India's pride, nuclear submarine INS Arihant successfully completed its first deterrence patrol! I congratulate all those involved, especially the crew of INS Arihant for this accomplishment, which will always be remembered in our history," Prime Minister tweeted. Dhanteras gets even more special! India’s pride, nuclear submarine INS Arihant successfully completed its first deterrence patrol! I congratulate all those involved, especially the crew of INS Arihant for this accomplishment, which will always be remembered in our history. pic.twitter.com/tjeOj2cBdX — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 5, 2018 × The Prime Minister outlined that this is a major achievement, adding that a credible nuclear deterrence is the need of the hour. "The success of INS Arihant enhances India's security needs. It is a major achievement for our entire nation. True to its name, INS Arihant will protect the 130 crore Indians from external threats and contribute to the atmosphere of peace in the region. In an era such as this, a credible nuclear deterrence is the need of the hour. The success of INS Arihant gives a fitting response to those who indulge in nuclear blackmail", he tweeted. The success of INS Arihant enhances India’s security needs. It is a major achievement for our entire nation. True to its name, INS Arihant will protect the 130 crore Indians from external threats and contribute to the atmosphere of peace in the region. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 5, 2018 × A statement released by the Prime Minister Office also informed that the Prime Minister congratulated the crew and all those involved in the achievement which puts India among a handful of countries having the capability to design, construct and operate SSBNs. "Prime Minister Modi commended the courage and commitment of India's brave soldiers and the talent and perseverance of its scientists, whose untiring efforts transformed the scientific achievement of nuclear tests into establishment of an immensely complex and credible nuclear triad, and dispelled all doubts and questions about India's capability and resolve in this regard," the statement read. Drawing a comparison with the festival of light, Diwali, the Prime Minister expressed hope that just as light dispels darkness and fear, INS Arihant will be the harbinger of fearlessness for the country. Reiterating India's commitment to the doctrine of Credible Minimum Deterrence and No First Use, the statement read, "As a responsible nation, India has put in place a robust nuclear command and control structure, effective safety assurance architecture and strict political control, under its Nuclear Command Authority. It remains committed to the doctrine of Credible Minimum Deterrence and No First Use, as enshrined in the decision taken by the Cabinet Committee on Security in its meeting chaired by the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on January 04, 2003. (With inputs from ANI)

Fitting response to nuke blackmailers, says PM Modi on INS Arihant completing nuclear triad

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to spend the festival of Diwali in Kedarnath, sources said on Monday.

Prime Minister Modi, after assuming office in 2014, has primarily spent the festival every year with soldiers and security personnel at different parts of the country.

Last year, Prime Minister Modi celebrated Diwali with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel posted in Gurez at Jammu and Kashmir`s Bandipora district and a day later he visited Kedarnath to inaugurate various development projects.

In 2016, Prime Minister Modi met jawans of the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITPB), the Indian Army and Dogra Scouts in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh on the day of Diwali.

In 2015, he visited the Dograi War Memorial in Khasa, Amritsar to celebrate Diwali with the troops.

Months after becoming Prime Minister in 2014, he had paid a surprise visit to the Siachen Base Camp to celebrate Diwali with the soldiers deployed at the World`s highest battlefield.

The festival of lights, Diwali, will be celebrated on November 7 this year.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to spend the festival of Diwali in Kedarnath, sources said on Monday. Prime Minister Modi, after assuming office in 2014, has primarily spent the festival every year with soldiers and security personnel at different parts of the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to spend the festival of Diwali in Kedarnath, sources said on Monday. Prime Minister Modi, after assuming office in 2014, has primarily spent the festival every year with soldiers and security personnel at different parts of the country. Last year, Prime Minister Modi celebrated Diwali with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel posted in Gurez at Jammu and Kashmir`s Bandipora district and a day later he visited Kedarnath to inaugurate various development projects. In 2016, Prime Minister Modi met jawans of the Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITPB), the Indian Army and Dogra Scouts in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh on the day of Diwali. In 2015, he visited the Dograi War Memorial in Khasa, Amritsar to celebrate Diwali with the troops. Months after becoming Prime Minister in 2014, he had paid a surprise visit to the Siachen Base Camp to celebrate Diwali with the soldiers deployed at the World`s highest battlefield. The festival of lights, Diwali, will be celebrated on November 7 this year.

PM Modi likely to spend Diwali at Kedarnath

South Korea's first lady Kim Jung Sook visits Ayodhya in India; Plans to meet PM Modi on Monday

PM Modi speaks at an event of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises

WION Dispatch: India responds on US sanctions to be slapped on Iran

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday sarcastically questioned the labelling of jackets sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to South Korean President Moon Jae-in as 'Modi Jacket'.

Omar said in all his life he knew these jackets as 'Nehru jackets'.

And sarcastically concluded by saying 'nothing existed in India before 2014'.

In his tweet targeting the prime minister, the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister wrote, “It’s really nice of our PM to send these but could he not have sent them without changing the name? All my life I’ve known these jackets as Nehru jackets &amp; now I find these ones have been labelled “Modi Jacket”. Clearly, nothing existed in India before 2014.”&nbsp;

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It’s really nice of our PM to send these but could he not have sent them without changing the name? All my life I’ve known these jackets as Nehru jackets &amp; now I find these ones have been labelled “Modi Jacket”. Clearly nothing existed in India before 2014. <a href="https://t.co/MOa0wY37tr">https://t.co/MOa0wY37tr</a>
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1057555242097799168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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On Wednesday, Recalling his visit to India, South Korean President Moon Jae-in thanked PM Modi on in a Twitter post, “During my visit to India, I had told the Prime Minister @narendramodi that he looked great in those vests, and he duly sent them over, all meticulously tailored to my size. I would like to thank him for this kind gesture.”

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During my visit to India, I had told the Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> that he looked great in those vests, and he duly sent them over, all meticulously tailored to my size. I would like to thank him for this kind gesture. <a href="https://t.co/wRgekJSW16">pic.twitter.com/wRgekJSW16</a>
— 문재인 (@moonriver365) <a href="https://twitter.com/moonriver365/status/1057534851555840000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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“During my visit to India, I had told the Prime Minister @narendramodi that he looked great in those vests, and he duly sent them over, all meticulously tailored to my size. I would like to thank him for this kind gesture,” he added.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday sarcastically questioned the labelling of jackets sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to South Korean President Moon Jae-in as 'Modi Jacket'.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday sarcastically questioned the labelling of jackets sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to South Korean President Moon Jae-in as 'Modi Jacket'. Omar said in all his life he knew these jackets as 'Nehru jackets'. And sarcastically concluded by saying 'nothing existed in India before 2014'. In his tweet targeting the prime minister, the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister wrote, “It’s really nice of our PM to send these but could he not have sent them without changing the name? All my life I’ve known these jackets as Nehru jackets & now I find these ones have been labelled “Modi Jacket”. Clearly, nothing existed in India before 2014.” It’s really nice of our PM to send these but could he not have sent them without changing the name? All my life I’ve known these jackets as Nehru jackets & now I find these ones have been labelled “Modi Jacket”. Clearly nothing existed in India before 2014. https://t.co/MOa0wY37tr — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) October 31, 2018 × On Wednesday, Recalling his visit to India, South Korean President Moon Jae-in thanked PM Modi on in a Twitter post, “During my visit to India, I had told the Prime Minister @narendramodi that he looked great in those vests, and he duly sent them over, all meticulously tailored to my size. I would like to thank him for this kind gesture.” During my visit to India, I had told the Prime Minister @narendramodi that he looked great in those vests, and he duly sent them over, all meticulously tailored to my size. I would like to thank him for this kind gesture. pic.twitter.com/wRgekJSW16 — 문재인 (@moonriver365) October 31, 2018 × “During my visit to India, I had told the Prime Minister @narendramodi that he looked great in those vests, and he duly sent them over, all meticulously tailored to my size. I would like to thank him for this kind gesture,” he added.

I knew them as Nehru jackets: Omar questions 'Modi jacket' to South Korean President

Italian PM Giuseppe Conte hold talks with PM Modi; likely to sign deals

WION Gravitas: PM Modi, Shinzo Abe sign six key agreements

WION Gravitas: Why did Donald Trump turn down Indian Republic Day invitation?

Japanese <a href="http://13.232.42.114/world/pm-modi-japan-pm-abe-hold-delegation-level-talks-discuss-situation-in-indo-pacific-region-174184">PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi today</a> released a joint statement emphasising trade, maritime security and space exploration as the driving force between the two countries.

High-speed railway will be promoted, the Japanese PM said during the joint statement, adding that digital partnership will be improved.

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Speaking at the joint press meet with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/AbeShinzo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AbeShinzo</a>. <a href="https://t.co/4KR0hnVKY2">https://t.co/4KR0hnVKY2</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1056857962625433606?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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India, Japan signed key agreements during the summit, PM Abe said. "We seek greater cooperation in space exploration," PM Abe added.

India, Japan have signed a number of connectivity projects, the Japanese prime minister informed while seeking greater cooperation in space exploration.

While thanking PM Abe for the warm reception, PM Modi during the joint statement said that India and Japan share deep bilateral ties.

"Our patnership will boost growth," PM Modi said while asserting that he had frutiful discussion with the Japanese prime minister.

"The 21st century belongs to India," the PM declared while inviting Japan to be part of the solar alliance.

Earlier, PM Abe and Modi held delegation level talks where the two sides discussed a range of bilateral, regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region.

India and Japan signed six agreements, including on high speed train and naval cooperation&nbsp;after talks between PM Narendra Modi and Shinzo Abe.

On Monday, PM Modi held a series of meetings with top Japanese leaders and addressed the Indian community. He urged the Indian community in Japan to contribute actively in building a "new India".

"India is going through a massive transformative phase today. The world is appreciating India for its service to humanity. The nation is being felicitated for its policies and for the work being done towards public welfare," he said.

The Indian PM said&nbsp;that "tremendous progress" was achieved in the digital infrastructure, saying 1 GB data is cheaper than the smallest bottle of cold drink in the country.&nbsp;

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Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi today released a joint statement emphasising trade, maritime security and space exploration as the driving force between the two countries.

Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and PM Modi today released a joint statement emphasising trade, maritime security and space exploration as the driving force between the two countries. High-speed railway will be promoted, the Japanese PM said during the joint statement, adding that digital partnership will be improved. Speaking at the joint press meet with PM @AbeShinzo. https://t.co/4KR0hnVKY2 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 29, 2018 × India, Japan signed key agreements during the summit, PM Abe said. "We seek greater cooperation in space exploration," PM Abe added. India, Japan have signed a number of connectivity projects, the Japanese prime minister informed while seeking greater cooperation in space exploration. While thanking PM Abe for the warm reception, PM Modi during the joint statement said that India and Japan share deep bilateral ties. "Our patnership will boost growth," PM Modi said while asserting that he had frutiful discussion with the Japanese prime minister. "The 21st century belongs to India," the PM declared while inviting Japan to be part of the solar alliance. Earlier, PM Abe and Modi held delegation level talks where the two sides discussed a range of bilateral, regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region. India and Japan signed six agreements, including on high speed train and naval cooperation after talks between PM Narendra Modi and Shinzo Abe. On Monday, PM Modi held a series of meetings with top Japanese leaders and addressed the Indian community. He urged the Indian community in Japan to contribute actively in building a "new India". "India is going through a massive transformative phase today. The world is appreciating India for its service to humanity. The nation is being felicitated for its policies and for the work being done towards public welfare," he said. The Indian PM said that "tremendous progress" was achieved in the digital infrastructure, saying 1 GB data is cheaper than the smallest bottle of cold drink in the country.

In joint statement, India, Japan pledge partnership in maritime security, space exploration & digital growth

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-urges-japan-to-invest-in-india-says-always-talked-about-strong-india-strong-japan-174134">Narendra Modi met Japanese</a> PM Shinzo Abe in Tokyo for delegation-level talks on Monday.

During the meeting, the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral, regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Earlier, addressing an event PM Modi said low-cost manufacturing and labour cost would help India to do business while inviting Japanese investment in India.

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Strengthening all avenues of India-Japan cooperation and boosting cultural, people-to-people ties. 
 
Met Mr. Heita Kawakatsu, the Governor of Shizuoka province and Mr. Yuji Kuroiwa, the Governor of Kanagawa Prefecture. The discussions were extremely productive. <a href="https://t.co/VZZRI66vDW">pic.twitter.com/VZZRI66vDW</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1056813439304122369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Addressing the businessmen, the PM said: "I would also like to invite all of you to speed up investment in India. I assure you that you will be given all possible assistance to help in strengthening trade relations between India and Japan."

The prime minister emphasised greater cooperation with Japan which&nbsp;India's third largest foreign direct investor.

The PM added that India was fast moving towards Industry 4.0 powered by AI, IoT, 3D Printing and Robotics.

The Indian prime minister had arrived on Saturday to attend the 13th India-Japan annual two-day summit. Apart from meeting PM Abe, PM Modi also met secretary general Toshihiro Nikai of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the minister of economy Trade and Industry (METI) Hiroshige Seko.

Modi also addressed the Indian community in Japan in order to strengthen ties with the expat community and interacted with Japanese entrepreneurs. Modi also met with the governor of Shizuoka province of Japan Heita Kawakatsu.

India's ministry of Ayush signed a MoU with &nbsp;Kanagawa prefecture to boost healthcare and wellness.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Japanese PM Shinzo Abe in Tokyo for delegation-level talks on Monday. During the meeting, the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral, regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Japanese PM Shinzo Abe in Tokyo for delegation-level talks on Monday. During the meeting, the two leaders discussed a range of bilateral, regional and global issues including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region. Earlier, addressing an event PM Modi said low-cost manufacturing and labour cost would help India to do business while inviting Japanese investment in India. Strengthening all avenues of India-Japan cooperation and boosting cultural, people-to-people ties. Met Mr. Heita Kawakatsu, the Governor of Shizuoka province and Mr. Yuji Kuroiwa, the Governor of Kanagawa Prefecture. The discussions were extremely productive. pic.twitter.com/VZZRI66vDW — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 29, 2018 × Addressing the businessmen, the PM said: "I would also like to invite all of you to speed up investment in India. I assure you that you will be given all possible assistance to help in strengthening trade relations between India and Japan." The prime minister emphasised greater cooperation with Japan which India's third largest foreign direct investor. The PM added that India was fast moving towards Industry 4.0 powered by AI, IoT, 3D Printing and Robotics. The Indian prime minister had arrived on Saturday to attend the 13th India-Japan annual two-day summit. Apart from meeting PM Abe, PM Modi also met secretary general Toshihiro Nikai of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party and the minister of economy Trade and Industry (METI) Hiroshige Seko. Modi also addressed the Indian community in Japan in order to strengthen ties with the expat community and interacted with Japanese entrepreneurs. Modi also met with the governor of Shizuoka province of Japan Heita Kawakatsu. India's ministry of Ayush signed a MoU with Kanagawa prefecture to boost healthcare and wellness.

PM Modi, Japan PM Abe hold delegation-level talks; discuss situation in Indo-Pacific region

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.

PM Modi asked the people to participate in the "Run for Unity" event on October 31 which would be held on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel.

Announcing the&nbsp;unveiling of the "Statue of Unity"&nbsp;on October 31 in Gujarat's Narmada district, PM Modi said that&nbsp;Sardar Patel's birth anniversary will be even more special this year as the country would be dedicating the statue of Unity to him.

"31st October marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel, and like every year, the youth of our nation is geared up to 'Run for Unity'. I appeal each one of you to participate in 'Run for Unity' in largest possible numbers", he said.

"Sardar Patel's Jayanti this year will be even more special as on this day, we'll pay him true homage by dedicating 'Statue of Unity' to the nation. Located by the banks of river Narmada, the height of this idol is twice that of America's renowned 'Statue of Liberty'".

PM&nbsp;Modi also recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel in uniting the country. He said the&nbsp;leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India".

The "Run for Unity" marathon was flagged off by the prime minister on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel last year. He had also&nbsp;announced the day as "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas".

The marathon was introduced with the aim of having every Indian run together in a tribute to Sardar Patel.

Further hailing the victory of the athletes in Asian Para Games PM Modi said, "India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals. I was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary and inspiring."

He also&nbsp;praised the country's soldier saying that "our&nbsp;soldiers showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war".

PM Modi said, "This year November 11 holds special significance as the day when World War-I ended 100 years ago. Our soldiers fought with valour and gave supreme sacrifice and showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war".

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel.

Delivering the 49th radio address of Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the country to "Run for Unity" on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel. PM Modi asked the people to participate in the "Run for Unity" event on October 31 which would be held on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel. Announcing the unveiling of the "Statue of Unity" on October 31 in Gujarat's Narmada district, PM Modi said that Sardar Patel's birth anniversary will be even more special this year as the country would be dedicating the statue of Unity to him. "31st October marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabbhai Patel, and like every year, the youth of our nation is geared up to 'Run for Unity'. I appeal each one of you to participate in 'Run for Unity' in largest possible numbers", he said. "Sardar Patel's Jayanti this year will be even more special as on this day, we'll pay him true homage by dedicating 'Statue of Unity' to the nation. Located by the banks of river Narmada, the height of this idol is twice that of America's renowned 'Statue of Liberty'". PM Modi also recalled the contribution of Sardar Patel in uniting the country. He said the leader ensured "the merger of all princely states with the Dominion of India". The "Run for Unity" marathon was flagged off by the prime minister on the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel last year. He had also announced the day as "Rashtriya Ekta Diwas". The marathon was introduced with the aim of having every Indian run together in a tribute to Sardar Patel. Further hailing the victory of the athletes in Asian Para Games PM Modi said, "India created a new record in these games by winning 72 medals. I was privileged to meet the talented para-athletes who participated in Asian Para Games held in Jakarta. Their spirit to overcome all adversaries is exemplary and inspiring." He also praised the country's soldier saying that "our soldiers showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war". PM Modi said, "This year November 11 holds special significance as the day when World War-I ended 100 years ago. Our soldiers fought with valour and gave supreme sacrifice and showed the world that they are second to none when it comes to war". (With inputs from agencies)

On 49th edition of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi hails Patel's contribution to 'united India'

Narendra Modi is the "favourite" prime ministerial candidate of Muslims for next year's Lok Sabha polls as he has dispelled the "fear" that several parties instilled in the community using his name, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said Sunday.

He said the faith in Modi among Muslims had increased, especially among the women.

"The favourite prime ministerial candidate for Muslims in the 2019 polls is Narendra Modi, because he sees all 132 crore people of the country just as Indians. Other parties have seen them as a vote bank," Hussain said.

Muslims account for around 14 per cent of India's 130 crore population and the community plays a key role in the electoral outcome in a sizeable number of Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala and Jammu and Kashmir.

Hussain blamed the Congress for the poverty and backwardness of the Muslims in the country, saying the party had done injustice to the community and Modi had given them justice.

"Some people in 2014 used to scare others using Narendra Modi's name. Today, a large number of people from the Muslim community also feel that he is a man who works day and night. Narendra Modi treats all 132 crore Indians alike," he said.

Other parties used to take votes from Muslims by spreading the "fear" of Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the prime minister had taken out that fear, Hussain said.

Now they see that Modi is in power but there is no problem, the BJP leader added.

Not a single statement was made by Modi against Muslims, he said, adding that the prime minister's "shamshan-kabristan" statement in the run-up to the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls last year was "wrongly interpreted" as he had advocated taking care of both.

"In our party, some people may be making (certain) statements, but Muslims have full faith on the statements made by BJP chief Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the former Union minister said.

"Our party president and our prime minister have never given any statement that would hurt Muslims," he claimed, asserting that the community would back the saffron party big time in the 2019 general election.

Hussain also said Allahabad's name was changed to Prayagraj as "injustice" was done in the past" and now, "justice" had been restored.

"The earlier name was Prayagraj that was changed. To correct that mistake, is it wrong?

"Earlier also, Bangalore's name was changed to Bengaluru, Madras was changed to Chennai. So, how does history come into this," he said, rebutting the Congress's charge that the Modi government was trying to rewrite history.

On the Ram temple issue, Hussain said for the BJP, it was a matter of faith and not a poll plank.

"From October 29, there will be day-to-day hearing (in the Supreme Court). We are hopeful that this issue will be resolved soon and it will be acceptable to all the people in the country.

"Some people are also demanding that a law be made (for the construction of the temple). Everybody has a right to demand, how can anybody stop that? The government has the right to decide and it has not taken any decision in this regard," he said.

Talking about the upcoming Assembly elections in five states, the BJP spokesperson exuded confidence that his party would win in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.

"In Mizoram, the government will not be formed without our support and in Telangana, we will emerge as a big party," he claimed.

Hussain also asserted that the BJP, the Janata Dal (United), the Lok Janshakti Party and the Rashtriya Lok Samta Party will fight the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar together.

He said the alliance with the Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) had boosted the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) prospects in Bihar and the coalition was focussed on "Mission 40" -- to win all the Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Asked if anti-incumbency would be a factor in Bihar, Hussain said, "I had lost from Bhagalpur by 8,000 votes and Nitish Kumarji's candidate was third, getting 1,60,000 votes. Now those votes will be added to the BJP's kitty...We will fight together and this time, it is Mission 40 -- that we win all the 40 seats."

He also claimed that issues such as rising petrol and diesel prices will not hamper the BJP's poll prospects, saying the people were aware that the fuel problem was a global one.

The Modi government will come to power with a bigger mandate in 2019, Hussain asserted.

Narendra Modi is the "favourite" prime ministerial candidate of Muslims for next year's Lok Sabha polls as he has dispelled the "fear" that several parties instilled in the community using his name, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said Sunday.

Narendra Modi is the "favourite" prime ministerial candidate of Muslims for next year's Lok Sabha polls as he has dispelled the "fear" that several parties instilled in the community using his name, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain said Sunday. He said the faith in Modi among Muslims had increased, especially among the women. "The favourite prime ministerial candidate for Muslims in the 2019 polls is Narendra Modi, because he sees all 132 crore people of the country just as Indians. Other parties have seen them as a vote bank," Hussain said. Muslims account for around 14 per cent of India's 130 crore population and the community plays a key role in the electoral outcome in a sizeable number of Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala and Jammu and Kashmir. Hussain blamed the Congress for the poverty and backwardness of the Muslims in the country, saying the party had done injustice to the community and Modi had given them justice. "Some people in 2014 used to scare others using Narendra Modi's name. Today, a large number of people from the Muslim community also feel that he is a man who works day and night. Narendra Modi treats all 132 crore Indians alike," he said. Other parties used to take votes from Muslims by spreading the "fear" of Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the prime minister had taken out that fear, Hussain said. Now they see that Modi is in power but there is no problem, the BJP leader added. Not a single statement was made by Modi against Muslims, he said, adding that the prime minister's "shamshan-kabristan" statement in the run-up to the Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls last year was "wrongly interpreted" as he had advocated taking care of both. "In our party, some people may be making (certain) statements, but Muslims have full faith on the statements made by BJP chief Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the former Union minister said. "Our party president and our prime minister have never given any statement that would hurt Muslims," he claimed, asserting that the community would back the saffron party big time in the 2019 general election. Hussain also said Allahabad's name was changed to Prayagraj as "injustice" was done in the past" and now, "justice" had been restored. "The earlier name was Prayagraj that was changed. To correct that mistake, is it wrong? "Earlier also, Bangalore's name was changed to Bengaluru, Madras was changed to Chennai. So, how does history come into this," he said, rebutting the Congress's charge that the Modi government was trying to rewrite history. On the Ram temple issue, Hussain said for the BJP, it was a matter of faith and not a poll plank. "From October 29, there will be day-to-day hearing (in the Supreme Court). We are hopeful that this issue will be resolved soon and it will be acceptable to all the people in the country. "Some people are also demanding that a law be made (for the construction of the temple). Everybody has a right to demand, how can anybody stop that? The government has the right to decide and it has not taken any decision in this regard," he said. Talking about the upcoming Assembly elections in five states, the BJP spokesperson exuded confidence that his party would win in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. "In Mizoram, the government will not be formed without our support and in Telangana, we will emerge as a big party," he claimed. Hussain also asserted that the BJP, the Janata Dal (United), the Lok Janshakti Party and the Rashtriya Lok Samta Party will fight the Lok Sabha polls in Bihar together. He said the alliance with the Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) had boosted the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) prospects in Bihar and the coalition was focussed on "Mission 40" -- to win all the Lok Sabha seats in the state. Asked if anti-incumbency would be a factor in Bihar, Hussain said, "I had lost from Bhagalpur by 8,000 votes and Nitish Kumarji's candidate was third, getting 1,60,000 votes. Now those votes will be added to the BJP's kitty...We will fight together and this time, it is Mission 40 -- that we win all the 40 seats." He also claimed that issues such as rising petrol and diesel prices will not hamper the BJP's poll prospects, saying the people were aware that the fuel problem was a global one. The Modi government will come to power with a bigger mandate in 2019, Hussain asserted.

Modi is favourite PM candidate of Muslims for 2019: Shahnawaz Hussain

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presented his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe two handcrafted stone bowls and dhurries made from rose quartz and yellow quartz stone sourced from Rajasthan.

A Jodhpuri wooden chest from Rajasthan with traditional work was also presented, an official said.

The gifts were specially crafted on the occasion of Modi's visit to Japan for the two-day India-Japan annual summit.&nbsp;

The bowls were crafted by master artisan Shabbirhusen Ibrahimbhai Shaikh of Gujarat's Khambhat region, which is known for its practice of stone craft since generations and is also a leading hub for exports of stone products from India.&nbsp;

"The uniqueness of this craft lies in the fact that the form of the product is scooped out from a block of stone, and then shaped and refined using basic hand tools generally without any lathe machines," the official said.&nbsp;

Hand-woven by the master weavers of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, the dhurrie designs show the diversity of possibilities available -- from a symmetrical repeating geometric tessellation in one, to stylistic floral motifs arranged around the classical medallion pattern in another.&nbsp;

"The dhurries use two distinctive Indian colour palettes. While one uses Indigo blues, reds and sprinkles of turmeric yellows, the identifying colours that have marked Indian textiles for centuries, the other uses the muted earthy tones of the Indian landscape," the official said.&nbsp;

The stone bowls and dhurries were made under the design supervision of the prestigious Ahmedabad-based National Institute of Design. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presented his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe two handcrafted stone bowls and dhurries made from rose quartz and yellow quartz stone sourced from Rajasthan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presented his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe two handcrafted stone bowls and dhurries made from rose quartz and yellow quartz stone sourced from Rajasthan. A Jodhpuri wooden chest from Rajasthan with traditional work was also presented, an official said. The gifts were specially crafted on the occasion of Modi's visit to Japan for the two-day India-Japan annual summit. The bowls were crafted by master artisan Shabbirhusen Ibrahimbhai Shaikh of Gujarat's Khambhat region, which is known for its practice of stone craft since generations and is also a leading hub for exports of stone products from India. "The uniqueness of this craft lies in the fact that the form of the product is scooped out from a block of stone, and then shaped and refined using basic hand tools generally without any lathe machines," the official said. Hand-woven by the master weavers of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, the dhurrie designs show the diversity of possibilities available -- from a symmetrical repeating geometric tessellation in one, to stylistic floral motifs arranged around the classical medallion pattern in another. "The dhurries use two distinctive Indian colour palettes. While one uses Indigo blues, reds and sprinkles of turmeric yellows, the identifying colours that have marked Indian textiles for centuries, the other uses the muted earthy tones of the Indian landscape," the official said. The stone bowls and dhurries were made under the design supervision of the prestigious Ahmedabad-based National Institute of Design.

PM Modi gifts handcrafted stone bowl, dhurries to Japanese premier

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Japan on Saturday to attend the annual summit on October 28 and 29 with his counterpart Shinzo Abe.

In a statement Friday, before leaving for Japan, Modi described India and Japan a "winning combination" and said the island nation is New Delhi's most trusted partner in its economic and technological modernisation.

He said India's partnership with Japan is of great substance and purpose.

"We have a special strategic and global partnership. Our ties with Japan, both economic and strategic, stand completely transformed in recent years. It is today a partnership of great substance and purpose. It rests on the strong pillars of India's Act East Policy, and our shared vision and commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific," he said.

Modi said it will be his 12th meeting with Abe since he first visited Japan as prime minister in September 2014.

He said, as democracies, the two countries have shared values and they seek peace and prosperity for all.

"Our complementarities make India and Japan a winning combination. Japan today is one of the most trusted partners in India's economic and technological modernisations and one of the top investors in India," he pointed out.

The PM said projects such as Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail and Dedicated Freight Corridors reflect the high level and "strength of our economic engagement".

"Japan is also at the forefront of engaging in our national initiatives, such as 'Make in India', 'Skill India', 'Digital India', 'Start-Up India'... Japanese investors have faith in India's economic future, which is marked with myriad opportunities," Modi said.

He said India values Japan's global leadership in innovation, technologies and best practices and during his visit, he will have a chance to see some of Japan's high-tech capabilities in robotics.

"I will have wide-ranging talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and interact with business leaders and captains of industry from both countries. I will also address the Indian community. These interactions will help to further strengthen our trade and investment ties, and cooperation in new areas such as healthcare, digital technologies, agriculture and food processing, disaster risk reduction and disaster resilient infrastructure," he said.&nbsp;

He recalled that last year, he had hosted Prime Minister Abe and his wife Akie Abe in his home state Gujarat.

In a special gesture, Modi will be hosted by his Japanese counterpart for a private dinner at his holiday home in the picturesque Yamanashi prefecture on October 28, which will be, perhaps, the first such reception to be extended to a foreign leader.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Japan on Saturday to attend the annual summit on October 28 and 29 with his counterpart Shinzo Abe. In a statement Friday, before leaving for Japan, Modi described India and Japan a "winning combination" and said the island nation is New Delhi's most trusted partner in its economic and technological modernisation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Japan on Saturday to attend the annual summit on October 28 and 29 with his counterpart Shinzo Abe. In a statement Friday, before leaving for Japan, Modi described India and Japan a "winning combination" and said the island nation is New Delhi's most trusted partner in its economic and technological modernisation. He said India's partnership with Japan is of great substance and purpose. "We have a special strategic and global partnership. Our ties with Japan, both economic and strategic, stand completely transformed in recent years. It is today a partnership of great substance and purpose. It rests on the strong pillars of India's Act East Policy, and our shared vision and commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific," he said. Modi said it will be his 12th meeting with Abe since he first visited Japan as prime minister in September 2014. He said, as democracies, the two countries have shared values and they seek peace and prosperity for all. "Our complementarities make India and Japan a winning combination. Japan today is one of the most trusted partners in India's economic and technological modernisations and one of the top investors in India," he pointed out. The PM said projects such as Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail and Dedicated Freight Corridors reflect the high level and "strength of our economic engagement". "Japan is also at the forefront of engaging in our national initiatives, such as 'Make in India', 'Skill India', 'Digital India', 'Start-Up India'... Japanese investors have faith in India's economic future, which is marked with myriad opportunities," Modi said. He said India values Japan's global leadership in innovation, technologies and best practices and during his visit, he will have a chance to see some of Japan's high-tech capabilities in robotics. "I will have wide-ranging talks with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and interact with business leaders and captains of industry from both countries. I will also address the Indian community. These interactions will help to further strengthen our trade and investment ties, and cooperation in new areas such as healthcare, digital technologies, agriculture and food processing, disaster risk reduction and disaster resilient infrastructure," he said. He recalled that last year, he had hosted Prime Minister Abe and his wife Akie Abe in his home state Gujarat. In a special gesture, Modi will be hosted by his Japanese counterpart for a private dinner at his holiday home in the picturesque Yamanashi prefecture on October 28, which will be, perhaps, the first such reception to be extended to a foreign leader.

PM Modi leaves for two-day visit to Japan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be honoured with this year's Seoul Peace Prize for his contribution to world peace through his economic vision.

Prime Minister Modi will become the 14th recipient of this coveted award.

"The Seoul Peace Prize Committee has decided to confer the 2018 Seoul Peace Prize on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in recognition of his dedication to improving international cooperation, raising global economic growth, accelerating the Human Development of the people of India by fostering economic growth in the world's fastest growing large economy and furthering the development of democracy through anti-corruption and social integration efforts," read a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs.

The Award Committee recognised Prime Minister Modi's contributions to the growth of the Indian and global economies, crediting 'Modinomics' for reducing social and economic disparity between the rich and the poor.

"The Committee lauded the Prime Minister's initiatives to make the government cleaner through anti-corruption measures and demonetisation. The Committee also credited the Prime Minister for his contribution towards regional and global peace through a proactive foreign policy with countries around the world under the 'Modi Doctrine' and the 'Act East Policy'," the statement added.

Expressing his gratitude for the prestigious honour and in light of India's deepening partnership with the Republic of Korea, Prime Minister Modi has accepted the award.

The award will be presented by the Seoul Peace Prize Foundation at a mutually convenient time.

The Seoul Peace Prize was established in 1990 to commemorate the success of the 24th Olympic Games held in Seoul. Former chairman of the International Olympic Committee Juan Antonio Samaranch was its first recipient. Other winners include former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and former United States Secretary of State George Pratt Shultz.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be honoured with this year's Seoul Peace Prize for his contribution to world peace through his economic vision. Prime Minister Modi will become the 14th recipient of this coveted award.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be honoured with this year's Seoul Peace Prize for his contribution to world peace through his economic vision. Prime Minister Modi will become the 14th recipient of this coveted award. "The Seoul Peace Prize Committee has decided to confer the 2018 Seoul Peace Prize on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in recognition of his dedication to improving international cooperation, raising global economic growth, accelerating the Human Development of the people of India by fostering economic growth in the world's fastest growing large economy and furthering the development of democracy through anti-corruption and social integration efforts," read a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs. The Award Committee recognised Prime Minister Modi's contributions to the growth of the Indian and global economies, crediting 'Modinomics' for reducing social and economic disparity between the rich and the poor. "The Committee lauded the Prime Minister's initiatives to make the government cleaner through anti-corruption measures and demonetisation. The Committee also credited the Prime Minister for his contribution towards regional and global peace through a proactive foreign policy with countries around the world under the 'Modi Doctrine' and the 'Act East Policy'," the statement added. Expressing his gratitude for the prestigious honour and in light of India's deepening partnership with the Republic of Korea, Prime Minister Modi has accepted the award. The award will be presented by the Seoul Peace Prize Foundation at a mutually convenient time. The Seoul Peace Prize was established in 1990 to commemorate the success of the 24th Olympic Games held in Seoul. Former chairman of the International Olympic Committee Juan Antonio Samaranch was its first recipient. Other winners include former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and former United States Secretary of State George Pratt Shultz.

PM Narendra Modi awarded Seoul Peace Prize 2018

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday honoured the survivours of 1959 Ladakh's Hot Spring attack, on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day.

Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani paid tributes to the policemen killed in an ambush by Chinese troops, who had violated Indian Territory in Aksai Chin area, on this day in 1959.

The Prime Minister marking the National Police Commemoration Day also inaugurated a 30-feet-tall and 238-tonne heavy black granite central sculpture honouring the slain troopers, a museum and a wall of valour bearing the names of over 34,800 martyred personnel.

Until the autumn of 1959, the Indian Police personnel were responsible for manning the 2,500-mile long border of India with Tibet. On October 20, 1959, three reconnaissance parties were launched from Hot Springs in preparation for further movement of an Indian expedition which was on its way to Lanak La. Two parties returned to Hot Springs by the afternoon of that day, while the third one comprising of two police constables and a porter did not return.

A party of about 20 personnel of the Intelligence Bureau and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) led by Karam Singh, DCIO proceeded ahead on horseback, while others followed on foot in three Sections.

At about midday, Chinese Army personnel on a hillock opened fire and threw grenades at the party and since there was no cover, most personnel were injured.

10 police personnel died, seven were taken as prisoners by the Chinese and the remaining managed to escape.

Bodies of the 10 personnel were returned by the Chinese only on November 28, 1959, after full five weeks of the incident.

Since then October 21 is observed as Commemoration Day in all Police Lines throughout India to mark the memory of these policemen who were killed in Ladakh and all other police personnel killed on duty during the year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday honoured the survivours of 1959 Ladakh's Hot Spring attack, on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day. Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani paid tributes to the policemen killed in an ambush by Chinese troops, who had violated Indian Territory in Aksai Chin area, on this day in 1959.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday honoured the survivours of 1959 Ladakh's Hot Spring attack, on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day. Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader LK Advani paid tributes to the policemen killed in an ambush by Chinese troops, who had violated Indian Territory in Aksai Chin area, on this day in 1959. The Prime Minister marking the National Police Commemoration Day also inaugurated a 30-feet-tall and 238-tonne heavy black granite central sculpture honouring the slain troopers, a museum and a wall of valour bearing the names of over 34,800 martyred personnel. Until the autumn of 1959, the Indian Police personnel were responsible for manning the 2,500-mile long border of India with Tibet. On October 20, 1959, three reconnaissance parties were launched from Hot Springs in preparation for further movement of an Indian expedition which was on its way to Lanak La. Two parties returned to Hot Springs by the afternoon of that day, while the third one comprising of two police constables and a porter did not return. A party of about 20 personnel of the Intelligence Bureau and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) led by Karam Singh, DCIO proceeded ahead on horseback, while others followed on foot in three Sections. At about midday, Chinese Army personnel on a hillock opened fire and threw grenades at the party and since there was no cover, most personnel were injured. 10 police personnel died, seven were taken as prisoners by the Chinese and the remaining managed to escape. Bodies of the 10 personnel were returned by the Chinese only on November 28, 1959, after full five weeks of the incident. Since then October 21 is observed as Commemoration Day in all Police Lines throughout India to mark the memory of these policemen who were killed in Ladakh and all other police personnel killed on duty during the year.

PM Modi honours survivors of 1959 Ladakh's Hot Spring attack

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-30-feared-dead-in-railway-crossing-accident-in-amritsar-172370">Amritsar train accident</a> and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said.

More than 50 people were killed and 72 injured Friday evening after a crowd of Dussehra revellers, who had spilled onto railway tracks while watching burning of a Ravana effigy, was run over by a train in Amritsar.

The train was coming from Jalandhar. The incident happened at Joda Phatak where at least 300 people were watching 'Ravana dahan' at a ground near the railway tracks.

"Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching," Modi tweeted earlier this evening.

"My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," he said.

Railways has issued helpline numbers 0183-2223171, 0183-2564485&nbsp;for information on the incident.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday announced all possible assistance by the Centre to Punjab as a large number of Dussehra revellers standing across railway tracks were mowed down by a passing train near Amritsar.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh separately announced a compensation of Rs five lakh each to the kin of the deceased.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the Amritsar train accident and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday approved a financial relief of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased in the Amritsar train accident and Rs 50,000 for the injured, a spokesperson said. More than 50 people were killed and 72 injured Friday evening after a crowd of Dussehra revellers, who had spilled onto railway tracks while watching burning of a Ravana effigy, was run over by a train in Amritsar. The train was coming from Jalandhar. The incident happened at Joda Phatak where at least 300 people were watching 'Ravana dahan' at a ground near the railway tracks. "Extremely saddened by the train accident in Amritsar. The tragedy is heart-wrenching," Modi tweeted earlier this evening. "My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and I pray that the injured recover quickly. Have asked officials to provide immediate assistance that is required," he said. Railways has issued helpline numbers 0183-2223171, 0183-2564485 for information on the incident. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Friday announced all possible assistance by the Centre to Punjab as a large number of Dussehra revellers standing across railway tracks were mowed down by a passing train near Amritsar. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh separately announced a compensation of Rs five lakh each to the kin of the deceased.

Modi approves financial relief of Rs 2 lakh to kin of dead in Amritsar train accident

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