The Economist: Airstrikes will lead to BJP's victory

India Elections 2019: PM Modi highlights importance of Voting

When some members of the Bollywood fraternity met with the Indian PM early January, it became the talk of the town. The most-talked-about photo that came out of that session was a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-vicky-kaushal-alia-bhatt-and-others-feature-in-selfie-of-the-year-with-pm-modi-189416">selfie with all celebs rounding up around Modi.</a>&nbsp;

The group had met Modi to discuss how cinema can help in nation building among others. Now revealing more details on the same, Ranveer said that the PM asked the film fraternity to choose content which propagates the message of “inclusive India and unity”.

Speaking at the announcement of an awards function, Ranveer said, “I met the Prime Minister recently and we had a very pleasant meeting. We apprised him what we as young members of the film fraternity are doing. He had something to say to us, which was that, if possible, we should choose content that has in it a message of inclusive India and unity.”&nbsp;

He added, “I was very happy to report to him that my next film 83 is one such film where it’s truly team India. You have gentlemen from all across the country coming together to make the nation proud. It’s also an extraordinary underdog story that I’m very happy and proud to be a part of.”&nbsp;

Ranveer will soon start work on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/83-ranveer-singh-preps-for-film-on-kapil-dev-at-lords-meets-with-sachin-tendulkar-158277">‘83’</a> that is based on Indian cricket team’s <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-starrer-83-to-recreate-team-indias-historic-world-cup-winning-moment-in-1983-195722">first world cup victory in 1983.</a>

Speaking about his love for life, Ranveer said, “I believe my calling in life is to be an entertainer. So the best thing I can do is to fulfil what I believe is my purpose in life, that is to do my best to entertain people. When it comes to being a responsible citizen, I think I am.”

When some members of the Bollywood fraternity met with the Indian PM early January, it became the talk of the town. The most-talked-about photo that came out of that session was a selfie with all celebs rounding up around Modi.

When some members of the Bollywood fraternity met with the Indian PM early January, it became the talk of the town. The most-talked-about photo that came out of that session was a selfie with all celebs rounding up around Modi. The group had met Modi to discuss how cinema can help in nation building among others. Now revealing more details on the same, Ranveer said that the PM asked the film fraternity to choose content which propagates the message of “inclusive India and unity”. Speaking at the announcement of an awards function, Ranveer said, “I met the Prime Minister recently and we had a very pleasant meeting. We apprised him what we as young members of the film fraternity are doing. He had something to say to us, which was that, if possible, we should choose content that has in it a message of inclusive India and unity.” He added, “I was very happy to report to him that my next film 83 is one such film where it’s truly team India. You have gentlemen from all across the country coming together to make the nation proud. It’s also an extraordinary underdog story that I’m very happy and proud to be a part of.” Ranveer will soon start work on ‘83’ that is based on Indian cricket team’s first world cup victory in 1983. Speaking about his love for life, Ranveer said, “I believe my calling in life is to be an entertainer. So the best thing I can do is to fulfil what I believe is my purpose in life, that is to do my best to entertain people. When it comes to being a responsible citizen, I think I am.”

Ranveer Singh reveals what PM Modi told him when they met in Delhi

The New York Times, a leading American daily, raked controversy on Monday after it referred to Pulwama terror attack as an "explosion". Twitterati didn't spare a second to troll the US media giant with some even asking if the 9/11 terror attack was an airplane crash if Pulwama bombing was an "explosion".&nbsp;

The "explosion" bit wasn't the only folly exhibited in the NYT tweet. Its post on a story on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls had the Prime Minister's name spelt wrongly as "Narandra Modi".&nbsp;

"After an explosion in Kashmir and weeks of brinkmanship with Pakistan, many Indians are rallying behind Prime Minister Narandra Modi as elections approach," the NYT tweet read.&nbsp;

The incident triggered a wave of reactions from Twitter users, essentially Indians, who were angered by the unexpected error.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NYTimes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NYTimes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PulwamaAttack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PulwamaAttack</a> 
 
Nyt... pls Correct your journalism and spelling errors. It did not expect you about Pulwama attack. Terrorist Attack Anywhere in the world, It is Terrorism. 
And our Prime Minister's name is Narendra Modi...Not Narandra.
— jeetesh (@jeeteshc) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeeteshc/status/1105380626499174400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Nyt... pls Correct your journalism and spelling errors. It did not expect you about Pulwama attack. Terrorist Attack Anywhere in the world, It is Terrorism. And our Prime Minister's name is Narendra Modi... Not Narandra," one Twitter user posted on the microblogging site.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-cards="hidden" data-lang="en">
New York Times dictionary, 2019: 
Terrorist attack -&gt; Miltant attack 
Suicide Car Bombing -&gt; Explosion 
What's *your* agenda, NYT? <a href="https://t.co/K2bi76wPAx">pic.twitter.com/K2bi76wPAx</a>
— ░A░n░u░r░a░g░ (@jan14anurag) <a href="https://twitter.com/jan14anurag/status/1105171720430862336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It is not the first time when the Twitterati has came down heavily on the erroneous. Just a few days back, US President Donald Trump was trolled for calling Apple CEO Tim Cook as "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-trump-goof-up-tim-cook-renames-his-twitter-handle-as-tim-apple-201972">Tim Apple</a>".&nbsp;

Cook even went ahead and changed his Twitter handle to Tim Apple.&nbsp;

The New York Times, a leading American daily, raked controversy on Monday after it referred to Pulwama terror attack as an "explosion". Twitterati didn't spare a second to troll the US media giant with some even asking if the 9/11 terror attack was an airplane crash if Pulwama bombing was an "explosion".

The New York Times, a leading American daily, raked controversy on Monday after it referred to Pulwama terror attack as an "explosion". Twitterati didn't spare a second to troll the US media giant with some even asking if the 9/11 terror attack was an airplane crash if Pulwama bombing was an "explosion". The "explosion" bit wasn't the only folly exhibited in the NYT tweet. Its post on a story on the upcoming Lok Sabha polls had the Prime Minister's name spelt wrongly as "Narandra Modi". "After an explosion in Kashmir and weeks of brinkmanship with Pakistan, many Indians are rallying behind Prime Minister Narandra Modi as elections approach," the NYT tweet read. The incident triggered a wave of reactions from Twitter users, essentially Indians, who were angered by the unexpected error. #NYTimes #PulwamaAttack Nyt... pls Correct your journalism and spelling errors. It did not expect you about Pulwama attack. Terrorist Attack Anywhere in the world, It is Terrorism. And our Prime Minister's name is Narendra Modi...Not Narandra. — jeetesh (@jeeteshc) March 12, 2019 × "Nyt... pls Correct your journalism and spelling errors. It did not expect you about Pulwama attack. Terrorist Attack Anywhere in the world, It is Terrorism. And our Prime Minister's name is Narendra Modi... Not Narandra," one Twitter user posted on the microblogging site. New York Times dictionary, 2019: Terrorist attack -> Miltant attack Suicide Car Bombing -> Explosion What's *your* agenda, NYT? pic.twitter.com/K2bi76wPAx — ░A░n░u░r░a░g░ (@jan14anurag) March 11, 2019 × It is not the first time when the Twitterati has came down heavily on the erroneous. Just a few days back, US President Donald Trump was trolled for calling Apple CEO Tim Cook as "Tim Apple". Cook even went ahead and changed his Twitter handle to Tim Apple.

New York Times faces backlash for calling Pulwama terror attack an 'explosion', misspelling PM Modi's name

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel bin Ahmed Al Jubeir.

Terror remained the chief focus of the respective talks with the Prime Minister calling for "irreversible, verifiable and credible steps against all terrorists" without "any discrimination."

According to the Ministry of External Affairs release, PM Modi told the Turkish president that "terrorism remains one of the gravest threats to global peace and security". The Turkish president expressed his condolences for the victims of the Pulwama terror attack.

In his meeting&nbsp;with junior Saudi foreign minister Al Jubeir in Delhi, Prime Minister thanked the "leadership of Saudi Arabia for expressing full solidarity with India" in the fight against "terrorism in all its forms and manifestations". Al Jubeir briefed the Prime Minister on the "follow-up" of the outcomes of the recent visit of Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia to New Delhi.

There have been a number of high-level engagements between India and Saudi Arabia in the last few weeks. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was in India for a state visit from February 19 to 20. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met Saudi junior&nbsp;foreign affairs minister in the UAE on the sidelines of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers' meet earlier in March.&nbsp;

The Saudi minister also met Swaraj and agreed to set up the Strategic Partnership Council at the earliest. This is the second meeting between the two ministers in the last two weeks.

With the UAE, PM Modi thanked Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan for extending the invitation to India for the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers' meet in Abu Dhabi which took place earlier this month. The MEA release said, "He (the PM) expressed the hope that this historical participation would contribute to attaining the common objectives of peace and progress."

India was invited as the guest of honour at OIC's FMs meet for the first time much to the chagrin of Pakistan which tried to scuttle New Delhi's presence but ended up boycotting the event. This is the second interaction&nbsp;between the two leaders in the last 10 days.

It is interesting to know, PM Modi also had a video conference with Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during which both the leaders unveiled e-plaques for various development projects in Bangladesh.

Both leaders unveiled e-plaques for the supply of buses and trucks, inaugurated 36 community clinics, 11 water treatment plants, and extension of India's National Knowledge Network to Bangladesh. This was the sixth video conference between PM Modi and Bangladeshi PM.

During the conversation, PM reiterated India’s support to Bangladesh's development and expressed confidence that bilateral relations between the two countries would continue to grow even further. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel bin Ahmed Al Jubeir.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan and Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel bin Ahmed Al Jubeir. Terror remained the chief focus of the respective talks with the Prime Minister calling for "irreversible, verifiable and credible steps against all terrorists" without "any discrimination." According to the Ministry of External Affairs release, PM Modi told the Turkish president that "terrorism remains one of the gravest threats to global peace and security". The Turkish president expressed his condolences for the victims of the Pulwama terror attack. In his meeting with junior Saudi foreign minister Al Jubeir in Delhi, Prime Minister thanked the "leadership of Saudi Arabia for expressing full solidarity with India" in the fight against "terrorism in all its forms and manifestations". Al Jubeir briefed the Prime Minister on the "follow-up" of the outcomes of the recent visit of Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia to New Delhi. There have been a number of high-level engagements between India and Saudi Arabia in the last few weeks. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was in India for a state visit from February 19 to 20. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met Saudi junior foreign affairs minister in the UAE on the sidelines of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers' meet earlier in March. The Saudi minister also met Swaraj and agreed to set up the Strategic Partnership Council at the earliest. This is the second meeting between the two ministers in the last two weeks. With the UAE, PM Modi thanked Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan for extending the invitation to India for the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) foreign ministers' meet in Abu Dhabi which took place earlier this month. The MEA release said, "He (the PM) expressed the hope that this historical participation would contribute to attaining the common objectives of peace and progress." India was invited as the guest of honour at OIC's FMs meet for the first time much to the chagrin of Pakistan which tried to scuttle New Delhi's presence but ended up boycotting the event. This is the second interaction between the two leaders in the last 10 days. It is interesting to know, PM Modi also had a video conference with Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during which both the leaders unveiled e-plaques for various development projects in Bangladesh. Both leaders unveiled e-plaques for the supply of buses and trucks, inaugurated 36 community clinics, 11 water treatment plants, and extension of India's National Knowledge Network to Bangladesh. This was the sixth video conference between PM Modi and Bangladeshi PM. During the conversation, PM reiterated India’s support to Bangladesh's development and expressed confidence that bilateral relations between the two countries would continue to grow even further.

India's West Asia outreach: PM speaks to Turkey president, Saudi Arabia and UAE leaders

Saudi Junior foreign minister to meet PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday again hit out at those seeking proof of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-last-5-years-we-have-hit-pakistan-3-times-rajnath-singh-202200">India's air strike at Balakot</a>&nbsp;in Pakistan and slammed the previous Congress government for its handling of terror attacks like the one in Mumbai in 2008.

Addressing a public meeting in Greater Noida, Modi said the "corrupt" are opposing and abusing him in order to get votes.

Modi said today India works on 'nayi reeti, nayi neeti' (new methods, new policies), asserting that after the terror attack in Uri (Jammu and Kashmir) in 2016, the country for the first time taught terrorists a lesson "in a language they understand" with surgical strikes.

"Is it okay for you to have a government that does nothing? A chowkidar (referring to himself) who sleeps?" he asked the gathering of thousands, after inaugurating several development projects.

He said the country can never forget the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai. India should have responded then and the whole world would have supported the country, he said.

"But that required courage. All evidence was against terrorist handlers in Pakistan which proved them guilty. But how did India respond? There are reports that our forces were ready to avenge the terror attack even then, but Delhi remained cold. The forces were not allowed to take any action," he said.

Stating that there were repeated terror attacks in India after 2008 whose links were found across the border, Modi questioned the previous government's response. They did not change their policy, they only changed their home ministers, he said.

"Had the previous government shown some courage and taught terrorists a lesson in their own language, terrorism would not have emerged as the menace it is now," he said.

He said after the pre-dawn air strike on February 24, India was quietly monitoring the situation and it was Pakistan which started "crying" around 5.00 am that "Modi has hit us".

"They were thinking they can keep wounding India, wage attacks, proxy wars and India would not respond. The reason the enemies of India could think this was because of the attitude of the 'remote-controlled' government prior to 2014. That is why the enemies could nurture this attitude," the prime minster said.

He said some politicians are making controversial statements which elicit applause in Pakistan and urged the people to decide if they want to trust them or not.

"Aaj har bhrasht ko Modi se kasht hai (Today every corrupt person has a problem with Modi). There is a competition among them to abuse this chowkidar (watchman), they think abusing me will get them votes," Modi said.

Referring to the opposition, he said, "They have turned so hopeless that in their stubbornness to oppose Modi, they have started opposing the nation also."

"After Uri, proof was sought. Our soldiers did something that has never happened before. Our soldiers struck terrorists inside their home. Terrorists and their guardians had not expected such action (this time)," he said.

"They thought if India once did a surgical strike, they would again do something similar. So they had deployed forces along the border, but we went by air this time," Modi added.

While addressing a public meeting in Ghaziabad on Friday, the prime minister had slammed rivals' questioning the air strike and said the "trust of 130 crore people" was his proof to them.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday again hit out at those seeking proof of India's air strike at Balakot in Pakistan and slammed the previous Congress government for its handling of terror attacks like the one in Mumbai in 2008.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday again hit out at those seeking proof of India's air strike at Balakot in Pakistan and slammed the previous Congress government for its handling of terror attacks like the one in Mumbai in 2008. Addressing a public meeting in Greater Noida, Modi said the "corrupt" are opposing and abusing him in order to get votes. Modi said today India works on 'nayi reeti, nayi neeti' (new methods, new policies), asserting that after the terror attack in Uri (Jammu and Kashmir) in 2016, the country for the first time taught terrorists a lesson "in a language they understand" with surgical strikes. "Is it okay for you to have a government that does nothing? A chowkidar (referring to himself) who sleeps?" he asked the gathering of thousands, after inaugurating several development projects. He said the country can never forget the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai. India should have responded then and the whole world would have supported the country, he said. "But that required courage. All evidence was against terrorist handlers in Pakistan which proved them guilty. But how did India respond? There are reports that our forces were ready to avenge the terror attack even then, but Delhi remained cold. The forces were not allowed to take any action," he said. Stating that there were repeated terror attacks in India after 2008 whose links were found across the border, Modi questioned the previous government's response. They did not change their policy, they only changed their home ministers, he said. "Had the previous government shown some courage and taught terrorists a lesson in their own language, terrorism would not have emerged as the menace it is now," he said. He said after the pre-dawn air strike on February 24, India was quietly monitoring the situation and it was Pakistan which started "crying" around 5.00 am that "Modi has hit us". "They were thinking they can keep wounding India, wage attacks, proxy wars and India would not respond. The reason the enemies of India could think this was because of the attitude of the 'remote-controlled' government prior to 2014. That is why the enemies could nurture this attitude," the prime minster said. He said some politicians are making controversial statements which elicit applause in Pakistan and urged the people to decide if they want to trust them or not. "Aaj har bhrasht ko Modi se kasht hai (Today every corrupt person has a problem with Modi). There is a competition among them to abuse this chowkidar (watchman), they think abusing me will get them votes," Modi said. Referring to the opposition, he said, "They have turned so hopeless that in their stubbornness to oppose Modi, they have started opposing the nation also." "After Uri, proof was sought. Our soldiers did something that has never happened before. Our soldiers struck terrorists inside their home. Terrorists and their guardians had not expected such action (this time)," he said. "They thought if India once did a surgical strike, they would again do something similar. So they had deployed forces along the border, but we went by air this time," Modi added. While addressing a public meeting in Ghaziabad on Friday, the prime minister had slammed rivals' questioning the air strike and said the "trust of 130 crore people" was his proof to them.

Modi slams Congress's handling of terror attacks, says India now follows new policy

Osama Model to eliminate Azhar?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said four metro projects have been inaugurated across the country this week, foundation of another has been laid and one more section of Delhi Metro in Noida will be inaugurated on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday flagged off the commercial run on Lucknow Metro's 23-km North-South corridor through video conference from Kanpur and in Ghaziabad inaugurated the 9.63-km-long Dilshad Garden-New Bus Adda section, an extension of the Delhi Metro's Red Line.

Modi also laid the foundation stone for Agra Metro Rail project.

The Prime Minister enumerated the number of metro projects inaugurated by him or in the offing, a tweet in Hindi by the PMO, quoting him said.

Today, Lucknow and Ghaziabad metro projects are being inaugurated, and foundation stone being laid of Agra metro, he said.

"Tomorrow, a metro section in Noida will be inaugurated. Yesterday Nagpur Metro was opened, and this week Ahmedabad Metro also got inaugurated," Modi said.

On Monday, he had inaugurated a 6.5-km stretch of phase one of the Ahmedabad Metro train service in that city.

After inaugurating the stretch, connecting Vastral to Apparel park area, Modi had also taken a ride in the metro.

On Thursday, he had addressed a gathering in Nagpur via video conferencing after inaugurating the 13.5 km first phase of Nagpur Metro connecting Khapri-Sitaburdi areas in the city.

On Saturday, Modi will inaugurate the 6.6-km Noida City Centre-Noida Electronic City section, an extension of the Delhi Metro's Blue Line, officials said Friday.

The completely elevated section with six stations -- Sector 34, Sector 52, Sector 61, Sector 59, Sector 62 and Noida Electronic City -- will benefit the people of Noida and connect the satellite city with the national capital.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said four metro projects have been inaugurated across the country this week, foundation of another has been laid and one more section of Delhi Metro in Noida will be inaugurated on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said four metro projects have been inaugurated across the country this week, foundation of another has been laid and one more section of Delhi Metro in Noida will be inaugurated on Saturday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday flagged off the commercial run on Lucknow Metro's 23-km North-South corridor through video conference from Kanpur and in Ghaziabad inaugurated the 9.63-km-long Dilshad Garden-New Bus Adda section, an extension of the Delhi Metro's Red Line. Modi also laid the foundation stone for Agra Metro Rail project. The Prime Minister enumerated the number of metro projects inaugurated by him or in the offing, a tweet in Hindi by the PMO, quoting him said. Today, Lucknow and Ghaziabad metro projects are being inaugurated, and foundation stone being laid of Agra metro, he said. "Tomorrow, a metro section in Noida will be inaugurated. Yesterday Nagpur Metro was opened, and this week Ahmedabad Metro also got inaugurated," Modi said. On Monday, he had inaugurated a 6.5-km stretch of phase one of the Ahmedabad Metro train service in that city. After inaugurating the stretch, connecting Vastral to Apparel park area, Modi had also taken a ride in the metro. On Thursday, he had addressed a gathering in Nagpur via video conferencing after inaugurating the 13.5 km first phase of Nagpur Metro connecting Khapri-Sitaburdi areas in the city. On Saturday, Modi will inaugurate the 6.6-km Noida City Centre-Noida Electronic City section, an extension of the Delhi Metro's Blue Line, officials said Friday. The completely elevated section with six stations -- Sector 34, Sector 52, Sector 61, Sector 59, Sector 62 and Noida Electronic City -- will benefit the people of Noida and connect the satellite city with the national capital.

Various metro projects across country were inaugurated this week: PM Modi

'Govt says crucial Rafale documents missing, so they were genuine?' Rahul attacks Modi govt

PM Modi's last Cabinet meeting: Key decisions taken ahead of polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said he was not bothered about threats and abuses against him and asserted that every drop of his blood was for India and he would do what it takes to make India strong.

Citing a Karnataka Congress leader's remark on "killing" him, he said, "Now one Congress leader talks of killing Modi, but I want to tell them I am not bothered about their threats and abuses. I am here to do my work, I am here to do whatever I can do to make India strong and prosperous."

Addressing his first public rally here after the BJP inked a poll pact with the AIADMK, in which PMK is also a constituent, he lashed out at the Opposition, saying they are guided by selfish interests.

"The careless conduct of the opposition on national security is very well known...They are guided by politics and selfish interests. They neither want a strong India nor strong armed forces."

The Prime Minister said the opposition's hatred against him was reaching new levels daily and they have a competition over who abused him the most.

Spotlighting his backward class origins -championing which the Dravidian parties had always steered their narrative in Tamil Nadu- the Prime Minister said, "someone will abuse me, then someone will mock my poverty, then someone will abuse my family and some my lower caste origins."

He said every drop of blood in his veins, "every breath of mine, every second of my time" was for India and its 130 crore people.

Reiterating his "maha milawat," jibe (adulteration alliance) against the opposition, he wanted them to clearly state their plan to take the nation forward.

He said Congress insulted regional leaders and alleged that late Chief Minister, veteran freedom fighter and Congress stalwart K Kamaraj was insulted time and again as he spoke for the people and challenged the dictatorship of "one" family.

Modi alleged that 50 governments were dismissed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi using Article 356.

"If the dynasty did not like a leader, the state government was dismissed. Fifty governments were dismissed by Indira Gandhi."

If there was one party that has abused Article 356 again and again, it was the Congress, he said.

Even the DMK had become a victim, he said and hit out at the Dravidian party, led by M K Stalin, for joining forces with Congress, saying "opportunism has prevailed over values,".

The Prime Minister said the NDA government was deeply concerned about security and the Centre's vision was to make India a hub for defence production.

One of the two defence corridors is located in Tamil Nadu and it would give opportunities to local industries and youngsters, he said.

About 1,900 fishermen belonging to Tamil Nadu have been released from Sri Lanka and even those who faced death sentences have been released through negotiations.

On the personal intervention of the Saudi Crown Prince, Modi said over 850 Indian prisoners will be released.

"If anyone of you is in pain we will work to heal it," he said.

On the development of the tourism and textile sector, the PM said NDA is committed to the development of these sectors.

"Weavers of Kanchipuram are the pride of this land. The Central government is committed to the development of the textile sector. We have released a subsidy of Rs 7.000 crore to the weavers in the country," he said.

Kancheepuram and Tamil Nadu have a huge potential of tourism, he said and added that NDA had done a lot of work in the tourism sector as well.

He said foreign tourist arrivals had increased by a record 42 per cent and foreign exchange earnings by 50 per cent. When tourism posted growth, the overall economy grew and even "a tea seller also earns."

Quoting poet Kalidoss, who hailed Kancheepuram as "Nagareshu Kanchi," the best city, he said an MP -referring to himself- from Kasi (Varanasi) had come to Kanchi.

"Our bond is strong and unbreakable, the culture and people of Tamil Nadu are remarkable," he said and hailed Tamil as a beautiful classical language.

Latching on the memory and legacy of late AIADMK stalwart Jayalalithaa, he said the Centre was making continuous efforts for the development of Tamil Nadu and to make it a developed State, in consonance with the dream of "Amma Jayalalithaa ji."

Acceding to the ruling party's demand, Modi said, "We have decided to rename Chennai Central station after the great MGR."

The Prime Minister also said that "We are also seriously thinking about ensuring that flights to and from Tamil Nadu have inflight announcements in the Tamil language."

In a show of bonhomie, a sceptre was presented to Modi by BJP state unit chief Tamilisai Soundararajan and Chief Minister Palaniswami.

The grand public meeting was organised by the AIADMK in association with its allies and the ruling party's signature colour "green," a favourite of Jayalalithaa, formed the backdrop of the stage&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said he was not bothered about threats and abuses against him and asserted that every drop of his blood was for India and he would do what it takes to make India strong.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday said he was not bothered about threats and abuses against him and asserted that every drop of his blood was for India and he would do what it takes to make India strong. Citing a Karnataka Congress leader's remark on "killing" him, he said, "Now one Congress leader talks of killing Modi, but I want to tell them I am not bothered about their threats and abuses. I am here to do my work, I am here to do whatever I can do to make India strong and prosperous." Addressing his first public rally here after the BJP inked a poll pact with the AIADMK, in which PMK is also a constituent, he lashed out at the Opposition, saying they are guided by selfish interests. "The careless conduct of the opposition on national security is very well known...They are guided by politics and selfish interests. They neither want a strong India nor strong armed forces." The Prime Minister said the opposition's hatred against him was reaching new levels daily and they have a competition over who abused him the most. Spotlighting his backward class origins -championing which the Dravidian parties had always steered their narrative in Tamil Nadu- the Prime Minister said, "someone will abuse me, then someone will mock my poverty, then someone will abuse my family and some my lower caste origins." He said every drop of blood in his veins, "every breath of mine, every second of my time" was for India and its 130 crore people. Reiterating his "maha milawat," jibe (adulteration alliance) against the opposition, he wanted them to clearly state their plan to take the nation forward. He said Congress insulted regional leaders and alleged that late Chief Minister, veteran freedom fighter and Congress stalwart K Kamaraj was insulted time and again as he spoke for the people and challenged the dictatorship of "one" family. Modi alleged that 50 governments were dismissed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi using Article 356. "If the dynasty did not like a leader, the state government was dismissed. Fifty governments were dismissed by Indira Gandhi." If there was one party that has abused Article 356 again and again, it was the Congress, he said. Even the DMK had become a victim, he said and hit out at the Dravidian party, led by M K Stalin, for joining forces with Congress, saying "opportunism has prevailed over values,". The Prime Minister said the NDA government was deeply concerned about security and the Centre's vision was to make India a hub for defence production. One of the two defence corridors is located in Tamil Nadu and it would give opportunities to local industries and youngsters, he said. About 1,900 fishermen belonging to Tamil Nadu have been released from Sri Lanka and even those who faced death sentences have been released through negotiations. On the personal intervention of the Saudi Crown Prince, Modi said over 850 Indian prisoners will be released. "If anyone of you is in pain we will work to heal it," he said. On the development of the tourism and textile sector, the PM said NDA is committed to the development of these sectors. "Weavers of Kanchipuram are the pride of this land. The Central government is committed to the development of the textile sector. We have released a subsidy of Rs 7.000 crore to the weavers in the country," he said. Kancheepuram and Tamil Nadu have a huge potential of tourism, he said and added that NDA had done a lot of work in the tourism sector as well. He said foreign tourist arrivals had increased by a record 42 per cent and foreign exchange earnings by 50 per cent. When tourism posted growth, the overall economy grew and even "a tea seller also earns." Quoting poet Kalidoss, who hailed Kancheepuram as "Nagareshu Kanchi," the best city, he said an MP -referring to himself- from Kasi (Varanasi) had come to Kanchi. "Our bond is strong and unbreakable, the culture and people of Tamil Nadu are remarkable," he said and hailed Tamil as a beautiful classical language. Latching on the memory and legacy of late AIADMK stalwart Jayalalithaa, he said the Centre was making continuous efforts for the development of Tamil Nadu and to make it a developed State, in consonance with the dream of "Amma Jayalalithaa ji." Acceding to the ruling party's demand, Modi said, "We have decided to rename Chennai Central station after the great MGR." The Prime Minister also said that "We are also seriously thinking about ensuring that flights to and from Tamil Nadu have inflight announcements in the Tamil language." In a show of bonhomie, a sceptre was presented to Modi by BJP state unit chief Tamilisai Soundararajan and Chief Minister Palaniswami. The grand public meeting was organised by the AIADMK in association with its allies and the ruling party's signature colour "green," a favourite of Jayalalithaa, formed the backdrop of the stage

Not worried about threats, every drop of blood for India: PM Modi

In a message on the 807th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Wednesday the harmonious coexistence of different faiths and communities is the "beauty of our country".

Modi's message was read out by Union Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi who presented a 'chadar' on behalf of the prime minister at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah.

The 'chadar' was handed over to a delegation comprising heads of both 'anjumans' of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and the Ajmer Sharif Dargah Committee in New Delhi on Saturday.

Naqvi said PM Modi is working with a commitment towards national security by adopting 'zero tolerance' policy against terrorism, asserting that the country is in safe hands.

Modi said in his message: "Harmonious coexistence of different religions, communities, beliefs and faith in India is the beauty of our country. Various Saints, Pir and Fakirs in our country have given the message of peace, unity and harmony from time to time. They have played a key role in spreading the message of discipline, decency and self- restraint."

He hailed Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti as a symbol of great spiritual traditions of India.

"His service to&nbsp;humanity will inspire generations to come. On the annual Urs of this great Sufi Saint, I express my tributes to him through sending 'chadar' at Dargah Ajmer Sharif," Modi said.

Naqvi said the prime minister believes in the legacy of Sufi saints to protect human values and justice and was working as a "warrior against terrorism".

India's spiritual and Sufi culture is the guarantee of ensuring humanity and peace by defeating and demolishing terrorism and all other forms of violence, he said.

Naqvi read out the message of the prime minister in which he conveyed greetings and best wishes to followers of Sufi saint Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in India and abroad on the occasion of annual Urs.

On the occasion, Naqvi also laid the foundation stone for the Khwaja Gharib Nawaz University at Kayad Vishramsthali, to be established by the Ajmer Dargah Committee. He also inaugurated Khwaja Gharib Nawaz Dispensary (OPD) at Dargah Apartment, Civil Line Ajmer.

Addressing people during the event, Naqvi said India is in safe hands and there will be no compromise with the security of the country and its people.

He said the organisations and people involved in terror activities by using Islam as their "security cover" are the biggest enemies of the religion.

"India is a role model for the entire world for social and communal harmony. We will have to strengthen this fabric of social harmony and unity," he said.&nbsp;

In a message on the 807th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Wednesday the harmonious coexistence of different faiths and communities is the "beauty of our country".

In a message on the 807th Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Wednesday the harmonious coexistence of different faiths and communities is the "beauty of our country". Modi's message was read out by Union Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi who presented a 'chadar' on behalf of the prime minister at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. The 'chadar' was handed over to a delegation comprising heads of both 'anjumans' of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and the Ajmer Sharif Dargah Committee in New Delhi on Saturday. Naqvi said PM Modi is working with a commitment towards national security by adopting 'zero tolerance' policy against terrorism, asserting that the country is in safe hands. Modi said in his message: "Harmonious coexistence of different religions, communities, beliefs and faith in India is the beauty of our country. Various Saints, Pir and Fakirs in our country have given the message of peace, unity and harmony from time to time. They have played a key role in spreading the message of discipline, decency and self- restraint." He hailed Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti as a symbol of great spiritual traditions of India. "His service to humanity will inspire generations to come. On the annual Urs of this great Sufi Saint, I express my tributes to him through sending 'chadar' at Dargah Ajmer Sharif," Modi said. Naqvi said the prime minister believes in the legacy of Sufi saints to protect human values and justice and was working as a "warrior against terrorism". India's spiritual and Sufi culture is the guarantee of ensuring humanity and peace by defeating and demolishing terrorism and all other forms of violence, he said. Naqvi read out the message of the prime minister in which he conveyed greetings and best wishes to followers of Sufi saint Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti in India and abroad on the occasion of annual Urs. On the occasion, Naqvi also laid the foundation stone for the Khwaja Gharib Nawaz University at Kayad Vishramsthali, to be established by the Ajmer Dargah Committee. He also inaugurated Khwaja Gharib Nawaz Dispensary (OPD) at Dargah Apartment, Civil Line Ajmer. Addressing people during the event, Naqvi said India is in safe hands and there will be no compromise with the security of the country and its people. He said the organisations and people involved in terror activities by using Islam as their "security cover" are the biggest enemies of the religion. "India is a role model for the entire world for social and communal harmony. We will have to strengthen this fabric of social harmony and unity," he said.

Harmonious coexistence of different faiths, communities beauty of India: PM Modi

PM Modi takes a jab at opposition addressing a rally in Karnataka

A CPI(M) leader from Maharashtra has been suspended from the party’s Central Committee for reportedly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at an event.

Former CPI(M) MLA Narsaiyya Adam in January praised and thanked Modi and Fadnavis for speedy clearance to a housing project in Solapur district, from where he was earlier elected in the state Assembly. He also reportedly wished for another term for Modi as prime minister.

“Such praise is against the policy of CPM. Hence, a decision has been taken to suspend him for three months from the party’s Central Committee,” a party official said on Tuesday. The Central Committee is a key decision-making body of the communist party. Adam was not available for comments in the matter.

A CPI(M) leader from Maharashtra has been suspended from the party’s Central Committee for reportedly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at an event.

A CPI(M) leader from Maharashtra has been suspended from the party’s Central Committee for reportedly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at an event. Former CPI(M) MLA Narsaiyya Adam in January praised and thanked Modi and Fadnavis for speedy clearance to a housing project in Solapur district, from where he was earlier elected in the state Assembly. He also reportedly wished for another term for Modi as prime minister. “Such praise is against the policy of CPM. Hence, a decision has been taken to suspend him for three months from the party’s Central Committee,” a party official said on Tuesday. The Central Committee is a key decision-making body of the communist party. Adam was not available for comments in the matter.

CPM suspends Maharashtra leader from Central Committee for praising PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan.

Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him.

"They (opposition) want to strike Modi, but I want to strike on terror," Modi said. "They want to remove this `chowkidar but I want to fight poverty," he added.

"The honesty of your 'chowkidar' is troubling those in opposition. That is the reason they are saying Modi hatao, (remove Modi) while I am saying that I want to fight poverty and dishonesty. I am standing firm due to your support", Modi said.

Taking potshots at the attempts to cobble up a mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) against the BJP, Modi said the opposition parties are forming a 'mahamilavat' (highly adulterated) combine to remove him.

"But I am working to safeguard the interest of workers and farmers. I am also working to provide security", he said.

Modi, who launched the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Mandhan Yojana pension scheme, targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi over poverty, saying only those oblivious to sleeping hungry at night can think that it is a "state of mind".

For some, poverty is just an opportunity to click photos, Modi said, sharpening his attack on the Congress chief.

"This scheme is aimed at uplift of the section of society which has been ignored and left at the mercy of God. They (Congress) gave slogans of garibi hatao (end poverty). Some projected themselves as messiah of workers. But during their tenure they did not launch such a scheme, he said. "They ruled the country for 55 years and collected votes in the name of poor," he said.

"They thought that poverty is a mental state. See how is this neta who says that there is nothing like poverty but a mental state," Modi said, targeting the Congress president.

"For them poverty is just an opportunity to click pictures. Only those oblivious to sleeping hungry even for one night can think that it is a state of mind", Modi said, in an obvious reference to Gandhi's 2013 statement that poverty is a state of mind.

"What they could not do in 55 years, this 'chaiwala' did in 55 months by bringing such a scheme," Modi said.

The communists got the opportunity to form a government in many states but could not bring such a pension scheme for the unorganised workers, Modi said.

Such a scheme has been launched for the first time for unorganised sector workers in India, he said.

"This scheme has been launched by our government as a tribute to the unorganised sector workers, who can earn some money till their body is fit but are worried about what will happen to them when they get old, Modi said.

Under this scheme, unorganised workers will get a pension of Rs 3000. I am told that over 14 lakh workers have been enrolled under the scheme, Modi said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday used the air strike analogy to underscore his will to take on terrorism emanating from Pakistan. Speaking after launching a pension scheme for the unorganised sector, Modi said the opposition wants to dislodge him. "They (opposition) want to strike Modi, but I want to strike on terror," Modi said. "They want to remove this `chowkidar but I want to fight poverty," he added. "The honesty of your 'chowkidar' is troubling those in opposition. That is the reason they are saying Modi hatao, (remove Modi) while I am saying that I want to fight poverty and dishonesty. I am standing firm due to your support", Modi said. Taking potshots at the attempts to cobble up a mahagathbandhan (grand alliance) against the BJP, Modi said the opposition parties are forming a 'mahamilavat' (highly adulterated) combine to remove him. "But I am working to safeguard the interest of workers and farmers. I am also working to provide security", he said. Modi, who launched the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Mandhan Yojana pension scheme, targeted Congress president Rahul Gandhi over poverty, saying only those oblivious to sleeping hungry at night can think that it is a "state of mind". For some, poverty is just an opportunity to click photos, Modi said, sharpening his attack on the Congress chief. "This scheme is aimed at uplift of the section of society which has been ignored and left at the mercy of God. They (Congress) gave slogans of garibi hatao (end poverty). Some projected themselves as messiah of workers. But during their tenure they did not launch such a scheme, he said. "They ruled the country for 55 years and collected votes in the name of poor," he said. "They thought that poverty is a mental state. See how is this neta who says that there is nothing like poverty but a mental state," Modi said, targeting the Congress president. "For them poverty is just an opportunity to click pictures. Only those oblivious to sleeping hungry even for one night can think that it is a state of mind", Modi said, in an obvious reference to Gandhi's 2013 statement that poverty is a state of mind. "What they could not do in 55 years, this 'chaiwala' did in 55 months by bringing such a scheme," Modi said. The communists got the opportunity to form a government in many states but could not bring such a pension scheme for the unorganised workers, Modi said. Such a scheme has been launched for the first time for unorganised sector workers in India, he said. "This scheme has been launched by our government as a tribute to the unorganised sector workers, who can earn some money till their body is fit but are worried about what will happen to them when they get old, Modi said. Under this scheme, unorganised workers will get a pension of Rs 3000. I am told that over 14 lakh workers have been enrolled under the scheme, Modi said.

Opposition wants to strike Modi, I want to strike terror: PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that the terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the earth and asked his critics not to question the valour of the armed forces even if they are not willing to trust him.

"Chun-chun ke hisaab lena, ye meri fitrat hai... woh agar saatven pataal mein bhi chupe hon, toh kheench kar nikaal kar maarunga".&nbsp;

"It&nbsp;is my nature to give a befitting reply...even if they are hidden deep under the Earth, I will pull them out and eliminate them," he said at a programme herewhile referring to terrorists.

"Yeh hamara siddhant hai ki hum ghar mai ghus kar maarenge...Main lamba intezaar nahin kar sakta (It is our policy to hit enemies inside their territory..... I don't like to wait for long)," he said and noted that he tends to heed to the advice of the armed forces on issues of national security".

Hitting out at the political critics, Prime Minister Modi said that they have made such statements which make headlines in Pakistani newspapers and are lauded in Pakistan's Parliament.

"Is this the way you are serving the national interest?...You may question me on my policies. You may not trust me but at least trust the armed forces. Don't raise questions over their valour," the Prime Minister said at the inauguration of the civil hospital here.

He added, "Was there any election when we conducted the surgical strike for the first time? We have been affected by terrorism for the last 40 years. I don't care for power. I am only concerned about my country's security."&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that the terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the earth and asked his critics not to question the valour of the armed forces even if they are not willing to trust him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that the terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the earth and asked his critics not to question the valour of the armed forces even if they are not willing to trust him. "Chun-chun ke hisaab lena, ye meri fitrat hai... woh agar saatven pataal mein bhi chupe hon, toh kheench kar nikaal kar maarunga". "It is my nature to give a befitting reply...even if they are hidden deep under the Earth, I will pull them out and eliminate them," he said at a programme herewhile referring to terrorists. "Yeh hamara siddhant hai ki hum ghar mai ghus kar maarenge...Main lamba intezaar nahin kar sakta (It is our policy to hit enemies inside their territory..... I don't like to wait for long)," he said and noted that he tends to heed to the advice of the armed forces on issues of national security". Hitting out at the political critics, Prime Minister Modi said that they have made such statements which make headlines in Pakistani newspapers and are lauded in Pakistan's Parliament. "Is this the way you are serving the national interest?...You may question me on my policies. You may not trust me but at least trust the armed forces. Don't raise questions over their valour," the Prime Minister said at the inauguration of the civil hospital here. He added, "Was there any election when we conducted the surgical strike for the first time? We have been affected by terrorism for the last 40 years. I don't care for power. I am only concerned about my country's security."

Terrorists will be hunted even if they hide deep underneath the Earth: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday hit out the opposition for questioning his statement that the presence of Rafale fighters would have given greater firepower to the IAF during the February 27 aerial engagement with Pakistan.

Modi said India would not sit quietly in the fight against terrorism and would do all to cure it from the root, which lies in Pakistan.

"I said if Rafale was acquired in time it would have made a difference (during the February 27 dogfight), but they say Modi is questioning our air force strike," he said, addressing a gathering in Gujarat's Jamnagar.

"Please use common sense. What I said was if we had Rafale at the time (of aerial dogfight), then none of our fighter jets would have gone down and none of theirs saved," he added.

Lashing out at statements from opposition party leaders who demanded proof of the February 26 air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot, Modi said his objective was to end terror while that of the opposition was to remove him.

"The root of terrorism disease is in neighbouring country, should we not cure the disease from its root," he said.

"Even if mentors of those seeking to destroy India are outside, this country won't sit quietly," he said, addressing a gathering after inaugurating an annexe building of Guru Govind Singh hospital and various other development works here.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday hit out the opposition for questioning his statement that the presence of Rafale fighters would have given greater firepower to the IAF during the February 27 aerial engagement with Pakistan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday hit out the opposition for questioning his statement that the presence of Rafale fighters would have given greater firepower to the IAF during the February 27 aerial engagement with Pakistan. Modi said India would not sit quietly in the fight against terrorism and would do all to cure it from the root, which lies in Pakistan. "I said if Rafale was acquired in time it would have made a difference (during the February 27 dogfight), but they say Modi is questioning our air force strike," he said, addressing a gathering in Gujarat's Jamnagar. "Please use common sense. What I said was if we had Rafale at the time (of aerial dogfight), then none of our fighter jets would have gone down and none of theirs saved," he added. Lashing out at statements from opposition party leaders who demanded proof of the February 26 air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Pakistan's Balakot, Modi said his objective was to end terror while that of the opposition was to remove him. "The root of terrorism disease is in neighbouring country, should we not cure the disease from its root," he said. "Even if mentors of those seeking to destroy India are outside, this country won't sit quietly," he said, addressing a gathering after inaugurating an annexe building of Guru Govind Singh hospital and various other development works here.

Use common sense, PM Modi tells Opposition on his Rafale remarks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will share the stage with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday at NDA's Sankalp rally in Patna. The rally will sound the bugle for NDA's Lok Sabha election campaign.&nbsp;

The rally will be a witness to thousands thronging Patna's Gandhi Maidan. PM Modi will be sharing the state Kumar after 9 years since they last conducted a joint rally in Bihar in 2005. &nbsp;

The Sankalp rally will be aimed at taking a resolve to make a new and secure India under the leadership of PM Modi, BJP General Secretary Bhupendra Yadav said Saturday.

The ruling coalition's Sankalp rally at Gandhi Maidan will be also addressed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Union minister Ramvilas Paswan, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

"Tomorrows NDAs Sankalp rally is being organized to take a resolve to make a new, strong, prosperous, safe and secured India We are proud of Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan who returned to India yesterday (from Pakistan). We thank the government and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this," Yadav, a Rajya Sabha member, told reporters on Saturday.

Workers and leaders of all the three NDA constituents- BJP, JD(U) and LJP- have been working hard to make the rally a grand success, Yadav said.

(With inputs from PTI)

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will share the stage with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday at NDA's Sankalp rally in Patna. The rally will sound the bugle for NDA's Lok Sabha election campaign.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will share the stage with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Sunday at NDA's Sankalp rally in Patna. The rally will sound the bugle for NDA's Lok Sabha election campaign. The rally will be a witness to thousands thronging Patna's Gandhi Maidan. PM Modi will be sharing the state Kumar after 9 years since they last conducted a joint rally in Bihar in 2005. The Sankalp rally will be aimed at taking a resolve to make a new and secure India under the leadership of PM Modi, BJP General Secretary Bhupendra Yadav said Saturday. The ruling coalition's Sankalp rally at Gandhi Maidan will be also addressed by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Union minister Ramvilas Paswan, news agency PTI reported. "Tomorrows NDAs Sankalp rally is being organized to take a resolve to make a new, strong, prosperous, safe and secured India We are proud of Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan who returned to India yesterday (from Pakistan). We thank the government and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this," Yadav, a Rajya Sabha member, told reporters on Saturday. Workers and leaders of all the three NDA constituents- BJP, JD(U) and LJP- have been working hard to make the rally a grand success, Yadav said. (With inputs from PTI)

Bihar: PM Modi, Nitish Kumar to share stage after 9 years at NDA's Sankalp rally today 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he envisions a place for India in the top 25 of the Global Innovation Index "soon." &nbsp;

Interacting with students at the Grand Finale of Smart India Hackathon on Saturday, he said, "We are at 57th rank in Global Innovation Index while in 2014 we were at 81, which means we made a jump of 24 ranks in 4 years. We have to reach in top 25 soon."

The Prime Minister also informed that in the present day, India is the third largest startup nation in the world.

"India today is the third largest startup country. In the last 3-4 years, more than 15000 startups have been set up. Majority of the startups that have begun are from small towns," he added.

Taking a jibe at the previous governments, he alleged that before his government came into power, taxpayers were called "thieves."

"Initially taxpayers were called thieves. I changed this perception. Even the utmost respect given to taxpayers is less. It is the taxpayer who builds the country."

A total of 1,373 teams comprising more than 10,500 students are participating in the hackathon across the country to develop coding solutions for problems put forth under several domains by various ministries.The hardware edition of the hackathon would be held in June 2019.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he envisions a place for India in the top 25 of the Global Innovation Index "soon." Interacting with students at the Grand Finale of Smart India Hackathon on Saturday, he said, "We are at 57th rank in Global Innovation Index while in 2014 we were at 81, which means we made a jump of 24 ranks in 4 years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he envisions a place for India in the top 25 of the Global Innovation Index "soon." Interacting with students at the Grand Finale of Smart India Hackathon on Saturday, he said, "We are at 57th rank in Global Innovation Index while in 2014 we were at 81, which means we made a jump of 24 ranks in 4 years. We have to reach in top 25 soon." The Prime Minister also informed that in the present day, India is the third largest startup nation in the world. "India today is the third largest startup country. In the last 3-4 years, more than 15000 startups have been set up. Majority of the startups that have begun are from small towns," he added. Taking a jibe at the previous governments, he alleged that before his government came into power, taxpayers were called "thieves." "Initially taxpayers were called thieves. I changed this perception. Even the utmost respect given to taxpayers is less. It is the taxpayer who builds the country." A total of 1,373 teams comprising more than 10,500 students are participating in the hackathon across the country to develop coding solutions for problems put forth under several domains by various ministries.The hardware edition of the hackathon would be held in June 2019.

India is third largest startup nation in world: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at the opposition for doubting the armed forces on the anti-terror air strike in Pakistan and said the country is feeling the absence of Rafale fighter jets as the results could have been different if India had these aircraft.

He said the country has seen the influence of India's foreign policy after the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman by Pakistan within three days of his capture.

Modi took on the opposition over the issue of air strike, saying while the entire world stood behind India in its fight against terror, some parties in the country were questioning and raising doubts.

He also hit out at his detractors, saying they are free to criticise him but their anti-Modi tirade should not harm the country's security interests and help terrorists such as Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed.

"India is feeling the absence of Rafale. The entire country is saying in one voice today if we had Rafale probably the result would have been different. The country has suffered a lot due to selfish interests earlier and now politics over Rafale," he said at the India Today Conclave.

He hit out at his detractors and said in their obsession to attack him, such people were harming the country and its security interests.

"One of the challenges before the country is some people opposing their own country. When the entire nation today is standing with the armed forces, some parties are casting doubts on them.

"These are the parties whose statements and articles are being used by Pakistan against India. In their fixation with criticising Modi, they are opposing the country and compromising its interests," the PM said.

"I want to ask these people whether they trust the capability of our armed forces or doubt it...A person like Modi will come and go, but India will remain...I want to tell such people that they are free to oppose Modi and point out shortcomings in the government's work, but do not help those harbouring terrorism.

"If you want to oppose Modi, do so, but do not oppose national interests. They should take care that their anti-Modi obsession and not help terrorists like Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed," he said at the gathering.

He said that India's unity has scared many within the country and outside. He said there was fear in the neighbouring country of the bravery and valour of Indian armed forces and it was good to learn that.

Modi said, "I can say with full confidence that the 21st century belongs to India."&nbsp;

On pilot Abhinandan Varthaman's release, he said, "Going by the events in the last few days, you would have seen the influence of India's foreign policy. Have you seen or not."&nbsp;

Modi said people had raised doubts over his experience in foreign policy issues when he took over as prime minister. 
Tearing into the Congress, Modi alleged its rule saw many defence scams. "They began with jeeps and later graduated to weapons, submarines, helicopters. The defence sector suffered in the process," he said.

"Those who ruled the nation for many many years had interests in two things - doles and deals. The culture of doles and deals harmed our nation's development journey greatly.

"Why is it that those who ruled the nation for so many years have so many defence scams in their era? They began with Jeeps and later graduated to weapons, submarines, helicopters. In the process, the defence sector suffered.

"If a deal could not happen, defence modernisation could not happen. Who is every dealmaker close to? Who is every middle-man close to? The entire nation knows. And Lutyens' Delhi, surely knows," he told the gathering.

Modi said during his tenure, 2.3 lakh bulletproof jackets were bought while previous Congress-led government ignored the proposal since 2009. The jackets he said were most important for the life of a soldier.

"You would be ashamed to know that not one, I repeat not one bulletproof jacket was obtained from 2009 to 2014," he said.

"In our tenure, the corridors of power are also free from middlemen because they know, this government will not tolerate any corruption," he said.

"While they (Congress) worked for 10 per cent commission, our governments work for 100 per cent mission," he noted.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking Modi over the Rafale deal, alleging corruption and favouritism. The government has denied the charges.

The prime minister also criticised the previous Congress governments for not doing anything to implement the OROP (One rank, one pension) scheme for armed forces and asked why was there no war memorial for the martyred soldiers.

Modi noted that unlike in the past, now no one can dare to threaten India and said, "the new India is a leader, fearless and decisive", adding that his government was decisive due to the unity of the people of the country.

Modi said his government's 55 months in power and 55 years of others' rule had given two contrasting approaches to governance. Previous governments had a "token approach", "we have a total approach'," he said.

Modi said Congress government gave away doles that were not aimed at empowering the poor, who remained at the mercy of the political class.

"The best example of this is the farm loan waivers. No economist or policy expert will ever say farm loan waivers can solve our agrarian issues. It is a temporary balm at best," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at the opposition for doubting the armed forces on the anti-terror air strike in Pakistan and said the country is feeling the absence of Rafale fighter jets as the results could have been different if India had these aircraft.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hit out at the opposition for doubting the armed forces on the anti-terror air strike in Pakistan and said the country is feeling the absence of Rafale fighter jets as the results could have been different if India had these aircraft. He said the country has seen the influence of India's foreign policy after the release of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman by Pakistan within three days of his capture. Modi took on the opposition over the issue of air strike, saying while the entire world stood behind India in its fight against terror, some parties in the country were questioning and raising doubts. He also hit out at his detractors, saying they are free to criticise him but their anti-Modi tirade should not harm the country's security interests and help terrorists such as Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed. "India is feeling the absence of Rafale. The entire country is saying in one voice today if we had Rafale probably the result would have been different. The country has suffered a lot due to selfish interests earlier and now politics over Rafale," he said at the India Today Conclave. He hit out at his detractors and said in their obsession to attack him, such people were harming the country and its security interests. "One of the challenges before the country is some people opposing their own country. When the entire nation today is standing with the armed forces, some parties are casting doubts on them. "These are the parties whose statements and articles are being used by Pakistan against India. In their fixation with criticising Modi, they are opposing the country and compromising its interests," the PM said. "I want to ask these people whether they trust the capability of our armed forces or doubt it...A person like Modi will come and go, but India will remain...I want to tell such people that they are free to oppose Modi and point out shortcomings in the government's work, but do not help those harbouring terrorism. "If you want to oppose Modi, do so, but do not oppose national interests. They should take care that their anti-Modi obsession and not help terrorists like Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed," he said at the gathering. He said that India's unity has scared many within the country and outside. He said there was fear in the neighbouring country of the bravery and valour of Indian armed forces and it was good to learn that. Modi said, "I can say with full confidence that the 21st century belongs to India." On pilot Abhinandan Varthaman's release, he said, "Going by the events in the last few days, you would have seen the influence of India's foreign policy. Have you seen or not." Modi said people had raised doubts over his experience in foreign policy issues when he took over as prime minister. Tearing into the Congress, Modi alleged its rule saw many defence scams. "They began with jeeps and later graduated to weapons, submarines, helicopters. The defence sector suffered in the process," he said. "Those who ruled the nation for many many years had interests in two things - doles and deals. The culture of doles and deals harmed our nation's development journey greatly. "Why is it that those who ruled the nation for so many years have so many defence scams in their era? They began with Jeeps and later graduated to weapons, submarines, helicopters. In the process, the defence sector suffered. "If a deal could not happen, defence modernisation could not happen. Who is every dealmaker close to? Who is every middle-man close to? The entire nation knows. And Lutyens' Delhi, surely knows," he told the gathering. Modi said during his tenure, 2.3 lakh bulletproof jackets were bought while previous Congress-led government ignored the proposal since 2009. The jackets he said were most important for the life of a soldier. "You would be ashamed to know that not one, I repeat not one bulletproof jacket was obtained from 2009 to 2014," he said. "In our tenure, the corridors of power are also free from middlemen because they know, this government will not tolerate any corruption," he said. "While they (Congress) worked for 10 per cent commission, our governments work for 100 per cent mission," he noted. Congress president Rahul Gandhi has been attacking Modi over the Rafale deal, alleging corruption and favouritism. The government has denied the charges. The prime minister also criticised the previous Congress governments for not doing anything to implement the OROP (One rank, one pension) scheme for armed forces and asked why was there no war memorial for the martyred soldiers. Modi noted that unlike in the past, now no one can dare to threaten India and said, "the new India is a leader, fearless and decisive", adding that his government was decisive due to the unity of the people of the country. Modi said his government's 55 months in power and 55 years of others' rule had given two contrasting approaches to governance. Previous governments had a "token approach", "we have a total approach'," he said. Modi said Congress government gave away doles that were not aimed at empowering the poor, who remained at the mercy of the political class. "The best example of this is the farm loan waivers. No economist or policy expert will ever say farm loan waivers can solve our agrarian issues. It is a temporary balm at best," he said.

PM Modi says country missing Rafale, slams opposition for doubting Balakot air strike

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled Sunday the project to manufacture the AK-203 Kalashnikov rifle in UP's Amethi. The AK-203, a successor to the iconic AK-47, will be manufactured along with a Russian firm.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Smriti Irani were also present&nbsp;

"One of the most advanced rifles in world AK-203 will be made in Amethi. It will be made by a joint venture of India and Russia. I express my gratitude to my friend President Vladimir Putin, this venture was made possible in such a short time by his support," Modi said Sunday.&nbsp;

"The factory will provide new opportunities for the youth in Amethi and will also open doors for new country's development and security, " he added.&nbsp;

He also said&nbsp;that though they lost the election in Amethi, their party won the hearts of the people.

"In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for the development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here."&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi is the MP from Amethi.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Amethi: We might have lost election here but we won your hearts. In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here. <a href="https://t.co/IPoaMQWN2Y">pic.twitter.com/IPoaMQWN2Y</a>
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Attacking the Congress he said, "The army in 2005 had told the government about their requirement for modern weapons, the MP from Amethi had also inaugurated it in 2007 and the work was expected to start from 2010. Three years since the inauguration, the government could not decide on what type of arms and ammunition to be made".

He further targetted the Congress and said, "Some people have the tendency to forget the public after getting their votes. They want to keep the poor in poverty so they can say 'gareebi hatao' generation after generation. We are giving strength to the poor to bring them out of poverty".

PM Modi was in Amethi to launch several development projects. He was also accompanied with Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Smriti Irani and Nirmala Sitharaman.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled Sunday the project to manufacture the AK-203 Kalashnikov rifle in UP's Amethi. The AK-203, a successor to the iconic AK-47, will be manufactured along with a Russian firm.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled Sunday the project to manufacture the AK-203 Kalashnikov rifle in UP's Amethi. The AK-203, a successor to the iconic AK-47, will be manufactured along with a Russian firm. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Minister Smriti Irani were also present "One of the most advanced rifles in world AK-203 will be made in Amethi. It will be made by a joint venture of India and Russia. I express my gratitude to my friend President Vladimir Putin, this venture was made possible in such a short time by his support," Modi said Sunday. "The factory will provide new opportunities for the youth in Amethi and will also open doors for new country's development and security, " he added. He also said that though they lost the election in Amethi, their party won the hearts of the people. "In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for the development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here." Congress president Rahul Gandhi is the MP from Amethi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Amethi: We might have lost election here but we won your hearts. In last 5 years, Smriti ji has worked so hard for development of this region. She never made you feel whether you made her win or lose, she worked more than the person who won here. pic.twitter.com/IPoaMQWN2Y — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 3, 2019 × Attacking the Congress he said, "The army in 2005 had told the government about their requirement for modern weapons, the MP from Amethi had also inaugurated it in 2007 and the work was expected to start from 2010. Three years since the inauguration, the government could not decide on what type of arms and ammunition to be made". He further targetted the Congress and said, "Some people have the tendency to forget the public after getting their votes. They want to keep the poor in poverty so they can say 'gareebi hatao' generation after generation. We are giving strength to the poor to bring them out of poverty". PM Modi was in Amethi to launch several development projects. He was also accompanied with Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Smriti Irani and Nirmala Sitharaman.

Smriti Irani has worked harder for Amethi than person who won from here: PM Modi

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha.

Patnaik said he had come to know from media reports that Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has announced setting up of a new zone, South Coast Railway (SCoR), which will be formed by carving out part of the East Coast Railway's (ECoR's) Waltair division.

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief said it had come as a "rude shock" to the people of the state.

"Till such (formation of new divisions) time, I would request in the interest of the people of Odisha, not to operationalise the declared South Coast Railway zone at Visakhapatnam which has been done without consultation with Odisha," Patnaik said in a letter to Modi.

Patnaik wrote the letter hours after the ruling BJD members staged a demonstration before the headquarters of the ECoR here.

At present, about 70 per cent of Odisha is under the jurisdiction of the ECoR that has its headquarters in Bhubaneswar. The state has the maximum resources of almost all major minerals like coal, iron ore, bauxite and manganese ore.

"With our thrust on industrialisation and Make in Odisha, we have been able to add value to these minerals within the State," Patnaik said.

The chief minister said an efficient and strong railway network with a single administrative structure within the state was necessary to maintain the impetus of growth. Currently, the major minerals like iron ore and coal are under Zonal Railways.

"My Government has also come forward to invest heavily to bridge the gap in investment in Railway Infrastructure, as in Haridaspur Paradip and Angul

Sukinda new lines. The State has provided land free of cost for Khurda Road Bolangir, Jeypore Malkangiri, Jeypore Nabarangpur Projects," he added.

"The commitment of my government to railway projects stands today in excess of Rs 5,000 crores, signifying our focus and priority to this sector," Patnaik said.

It is in this backdrop that Odisha has been asking for the reorganisation of railways in Odisha and unifying the railways in the state under one administrative zone of ECoR, Bhubaneswar, he said.

As the Centre has created the SCoR, the similar demand of Odisha may be considered likewise, Patnaik said.

"In view of our genuine concern and demand, I urge your kind intervention to declare two new Railway Divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur to unify Railways in Odisha under one administrative Zonal Headquarters of ECoR, Bhubaneswar," he added.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention and sought two new railway divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur districts to unify the railways under one administrative zone in Odisha. Patnaik said he had come to know from media reports that Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has announced setting up of a new zone, South Coast Railway (SCoR), which will be formed by carving out part of the East Coast Railway's (ECoR's) Waltair division. The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief said it had come as a "rude shock" to the people of the state. "Till such (formation of new divisions) time, I would request in the interest of the people of Odisha, not to operationalise the declared South Coast Railway zone at Visakhapatnam which has been done without consultation with Odisha," Patnaik said in a letter to Modi. Patnaik wrote the letter hours after the ruling BJD members staged a demonstration before the headquarters of the ECoR here. At present, about 70 per cent of Odisha is under the jurisdiction of the ECoR that has its headquarters in Bhubaneswar. The state has the maximum resources of almost all major minerals like coal, iron ore, bauxite and manganese ore. "With our thrust on industrialisation and Make in Odisha, we have been able to add value to these minerals within the State," Patnaik said. The chief minister said an efficient and strong railway network with a single administrative structure within the state was necessary to maintain the impetus of growth. Currently, the major minerals like iron ore and coal are under Zonal Railways. "My Government has also come forward to invest heavily to bridge the gap in investment in Railway Infrastructure, as in Haridaspur Paradip and Angul Sukinda new lines. The State has provided land free of cost for Khurda Road Bolangir, Jeypore Malkangiri, Jeypore Nabarangpur Projects," he added. "The commitment of my government to railway projects stands today in excess of Rs 5,000 crores, signifying our focus and priority to this sector," Patnaik said. It is in this backdrop that Odisha has been asking for the reorganisation of railways in Odisha and unifying the railways in the state under one administrative zone of ECoR, Bhubaneswar, he said. As the Centre has created the SCoR, the similar demand of Odisha may be considered likewise, Patnaik said. "In view of our genuine concern and demand, I urge your kind intervention to declare two new Railway Divisions at Rourkela and Jajpur to unify Railways in Odisha under one administrative Zonal Headquarters of ECoR, Bhubaneswar," he added.

Naveen seeks PM's intervention seeking single railway zone in Odisha

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