<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday called out PM Modi saying that it was a two-minute job for him to solve the sealing crisis in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He reiterated that if there was no solution for the sealing issue till 31 March, he would sit on a hunger strike in support of city traders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;I wrote to PM Modi seeking time on sealing issue but he never responded, it is a two-minute job for him to solve this crises&quot;, Kejriwal said in assembly on the first day of the budget session. &ldquo;If sealing is not stopped by March 31st, we will sit on strike with the traders,&rdquo; he added.</p>

<p>Kejriwal, last week, &nbsp;wrote to the prime minister and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, seeking time for a meeting to resolve the sealing issue.</p>

<p>In the letter, Kejriwal mentioned that &quot;the reasons behind the sealing are anomalies in the law and it is the Centre&#39;s responsibility to remove the anomalies.&quot;</p>

<p>He stressed over the depleting condition of traders in the state, adding that they are on the verge of starvation and unemployment will impact law and order. &nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;A Bill has to be brought in Parliament to remove anomalies in the law and save traders from unemployment,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, addressing traders in Delhi&rsquo;s Gandhi Nagar, Kejriwal attacked the centre, saying that when it can support an ordinance on Jallikattu, why cannot it bring the ordinance on sealing to give a relief to traders from the drive.</p>

<p>&ldquo;You (Centre) bring an ordinance on small-small things. When you (Centre) can bring an ordinance on Jallikattu, but why cannot you bring the ordinance to give relief to traders of Delhi from the sealing drive? &ldquo;We don&rsquo;t have any objection with it (Jallikattu)...I request the Centre to do whatever it can do to stop the sealing,&rdquo; the chief minister said.</p>

<p>About 2,490 properties were sealed in the national capital by the four local bodies since December for violation of Delhi&#39;s Master Plan 2021, the parliament was informed on Thursday.</p>

<p>Kejriwal said that in next two-three days, the government will submit a survey report on 351 roads, submitted by municipal corporations, to the Supreme Court and once the city administration gets nod, it would issue a notification to ensure that there is no sealing on these roads in future.</p>


'I wrote to PM Modi seeking time on sealing issue but he never responded, it is a two-minute job for him to solve this crises. If sealing is not stopped by March 31st, we will sit on strike with the traders,' he said

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday called out PM Modi saying that it was a two-minute job for him to solve the sealing crisis in Delhi. He reiterated that if there was no solution for the sealing issue till 31 March, he would sit on a hunger strike in support of city traders. “I wrote to PM Modi seeking time on sealing issue but he never responded, it is a two-minute job for him to solve this crises", Kejriwal said in assembly on the first day of the budget session. “If sealing is not stopped by March 31st, we will sit on strike with the traders,” he added. Kejriwal, last week, wrote to the prime minister and Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, seeking time for a meeting to resolve the sealing issue. In the letter, Kejriwal mentioned that "the reasons behind the sealing are anomalies in the law and it is the Centre's responsibility to remove the anomalies." He stressed over the depleting condition of traders in the state, adding that they are on the verge of starvation and unemployment will impact law and order. "A Bill has to be brought in Parliament to remove anomalies in the law and save traders from unemployment," he said. Meanwhile, addressing traders in Delhi’s Gandhi Nagar, Kejriwal attacked the centre, saying that when it can support an ordinance on Jallikattu, why cannot it bring the ordinance on sealing to give a relief to traders from the drive. “You (Centre) bring an ordinance on small-small things. When you (Centre) can bring an ordinance on Jallikattu, but why cannot you bring the ordinance to give relief to traders of Delhi from the sealing drive? “We don’t have any objection with it (Jallikattu)...I request the Centre to do whatever it can do to stop the sealing,” the chief minister said. About 2,490 properties were sealed in the national capital by the four local bodies since December for violation of Delhi's Master Plan 2021, the parliament was informed on Thursday. Kejriwal said that in next two-three days, the government will submit a survey report on 351 roads, submitted by municipal corporations, to the Supreme Court and once the city administration gets nod, it would issue a notification to ensure that there is no sealing on these roads in future.

Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal threatens to sit in on strike again

<p>A trial court in Jharkhand on Friday convicted 11 people accused in a cow vigilantism-related murder case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports say that the sentencing will be held on March 20. All of the 11 accused &ndash; including a local BJP leader &ndash; were convicted under IPC Section 302 (murder). In addition, three of them were convicted under Section 120B (conspiracy) &ndash; suggesting that the court was convinced that the attack was pre-planned.</p>

<p>As per reports the accused will be appealing the conviction. This is the first ever incident where a conviction case has been filed against violence in the name of cow protection anywhere in India. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, a mob of more than 100 people in Jharkhand&rsquo;s Ramgarh district lynched a 45-year-old Muslim trader on the suspicion of carrying beef in his car.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man was beaten to death in the Bazaar Tand area of Ramgarh district. His van was set on fire too.</p>

<p>The incident happened on a day Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned against mob attacks on cattle traders, beef-eaters and dairy farmers, saying killing people in the name of protecting cows is unacceptable.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, last week, police seized over 30 kgs of meat, suspected to be beef, while it was being transported by an auto rickshaw to a hotel in Chandwa, Latehar district.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police also arrested the driver and also booked the hotel owner and sealed the hotel.</p>


Last year, a mob of more than 100 people in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh district lynched a 45-year-old Muslim trader on the suspicion of carrying beef in his car

A trial court in Jharkhand on Friday convicted 11 people accused in a cow vigilantism-related murder case. Reports say that the sentencing will be held on March 20. All of the 11 accused – including a local BJP leader – were convicted under IPC Section 302 (murder). In addition, three of them were convicted under Section 120B (conspiracy) – suggesting that the court was convinced that the attack was pre-planned. As per reports the accused will be appealing the conviction. This is the first ever incident where a conviction case has been filed against violence in the name of cow protection anywhere in India. Last year, a mob of more than 100 people in Jharkhand’s Ramgarh district lynched a 45-year-old Muslim trader on the suspicion of carrying beef in his car. The man was beaten to death in the Bazaar Tand area of Ramgarh district. His van was set on fire too. The incident happened on a day Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned against mob attacks on cattle traders, beef-eaters and dairy farmers, saying killing people in the name of protecting cows is unacceptable. Meanwhile, last week, police seized over 30 kgs of meat, suspected to be beef, while it was being transported by an auto rickshaw to a hotel in Chandwa, Latehar district. The police also arrested the driver and also booked the hotel owner and sealed the hotel.

Jharkhand court convicts 11 in gau raksha murder case

<p>Legendary scientist and physicist Stephen Hawking <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/british-scientist-stephen-hawking-passes-away-35749">passed away earlier today at the age of 76</a>. Hawking was diagnosed with a degenerative ailment that damages the body&#39;s motor system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The demise of the century&#39;s greatest genius has saddened people across the world with condolences pouring in from all across.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Ram Nath Kovind described Hawking as a &quot;brilliant mind&quot; and dedicated a tweet in his memory.</p>

<p>&quot;Sad to hear of the passing of scientist Stephen Hawking. His brilliant mind made our world and our universe a less mysterious place. And his courage and resilience will remain an inspiration for generations,&quot; the President tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sad to hear of the passing of scientist Stephen Hawking. His brilliant mind made our world and our universe a less mysterious place. And his courage and resilience will remain an inspiration for generations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a></p>
&mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/973777063600680961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s tweet followed where he noted that Hawking&#39;s &quot;grit and tenacity inspired people all over the world&quot;.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Professor Stephen Hawking was an outstanding scientist and academic. His grit and tenacity inspired people all over the world. His demise is anguishing. Professor Hawking&rsquo;s pioneering work made our world a better place. May his soul rest in peace.</p>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/973785753607122946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Born on 8th January 1942 in Oxford, United Kingdom, Professor Stephen William Hawking was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) in 1976. He was also announced as one of the winners of the Fundamental Physics Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in the field of science.</p>

<p>Hawking will always be remembered for his mammoth contribution in the understanding of the universe, Black Holes among others.&nbsp;</p>


President Ram Nath Kovind also tweeted describing Hawking as a 'brilliant mind'

Legendary scientist and physicist Stephen Hawking passed away earlier today at the age of 76. Hawking was diagnosed with a degenerative ailment that damages the body's motor system. The demise of the century's greatest genius has saddened people across the world with condolences pouring in from all across. President Ram Nath Kovind described Hawking as a "brilliant mind" and dedicated a tweet in his memory. "Sad to hear of the passing of scientist Stephen Hawking. His brilliant mind made our world and our universe a less mysterious place. And his courage and resilience will remain an inspiration for generations," the President tweeted. Sad to hear of the passing of scientist Stephen Hawking. His brilliant mind made our world and our universe a less mysterious place. And his courage and resilience will remain an inspiration for generations #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 14, 2018 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tweet followed where he noted that Hawking's "grit and tenacity inspired people all over the world". Professor Stephen Hawking was an outstanding scientist and academic. His grit and tenacity inspired people all over the world. His demise is anguishing. Professor Hawking’s pioneering work made our world a better place. May his soul rest in peace. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 14, 2018 × Born on 8th January 1942 in Oxford, United Kingdom, Professor Stephen William Hawking was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) in 1976. He was also announced as one of the winners of the Fundamental Physics Prize, one of the most prestigious awards in the field of science. Hawking will always be remembered for his mammoth contribution in the understanding of the universe, Black Holes among others.

Hawking's grit and tenacity inspired people all over the world: PM Modi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi today announced his plan of making India tuberculosis-free by 2025. The Prime Minister was speaking while inaugurating the Delhi End TB Summit at Vigyan Bhawan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi noted that the pace at which the previous plans to eradicate TB in the nation were moving forward, it would have taken another 40 years to achieve the goals.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The pace with which the program to eradicate TB in the nation was moving forward earlier, it would have taken us another 40 years to achieve it. Today I&#39;m confident that in the duration of 1 year we&#39;ll be able to achieve 90% immunisation: PM Modi at &#39;End TB Summit&#39; in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/8p3j6SOPiz">pic.twitter.com/8p3j6SOPiz</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/973444644515336192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;Today I&#39;m confident that in the duration of one year we&#39;ll be able to achieve 90% immunisation,&quot; he shared.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I would like to announce that we have set the aim to eradicate TB from India by 2025: PM Narendra Modi at &#39;End TB Summit&#39; in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/Zb80zMrQ4U">pic.twitter.com/Zb80zMrQ4U</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/973441242607611904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Prime Minister admitted that the country has not been successful in &quot;curbing tuberculosis&quot; and that the policymakers will need to change the approach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;We have not been successful in curbing tuberculosis yet. I believe that if something doesn&#39;t yield result even after 10-15 years then we need to change our approach. The situation needs to be analysed,&quot; he further added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We have not been successful in curbing Tuberculosis yet. I believe that if something doesn&#39;t yield result even after 10-15 years then we need to change our approach. The situation needs to be analysed: PM Narendra Modi at &#39;End TB Summit&#39; in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/2EIArWJXq9">pic.twitter.com/2EIArWJXq9</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/973440295445688321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to reports, India loses over 220,000 people every year to tuberculosis. India is the highest TB burden country according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) 2011 data.&nbsp;</p>


According to reports, India loses over 220,000 people every year to tuberculosis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today announced his plan of making India tuberculosis-free by 2025. The Prime Minister was speaking while inaugurating the Delhi End TB Summit at Vigyan Bhawan. PM Modi noted that the pace at which the previous plans to eradicate TB in the nation were moving forward, it would have taken another 40 years to achieve the goals. The pace with which the program to eradicate TB in the nation was moving forward earlier, it would have taken us another 40 years to achieve it. Today I'm confident that in the duration of 1 year we'll be able to achieve 90% immunisation: PM Modi at 'End TB Summit' in Delhi pic.twitter.com/8p3j6SOPiz — ANI (@ANI) March 13, 2018 × "Today I'm confident that in the duration of one year we'll be able to achieve 90% immunisation," he shared. I would like to announce that we have set the aim to eradicate TB from India by 2025: PM Narendra Modi at 'End TB Summit' in Delhi pic.twitter.com/Zb80zMrQ4U — ANI (@ANI) March 13, 2018 × The Prime Minister admitted that the country has not been successful in "curbing tuberculosis" and that the policymakers will need to change the approach. "We have not been successful in curbing tuberculosis yet. I believe that if something doesn't yield result even after 10-15 years then we need to change our approach. The situation needs to be analysed," he further added. We have not been successful in curbing Tuberculosis yet. I believe that if something doesn't yield result even after 10-15 years then we need to change our approach. The situation needs to be analysed: PM Narendra Modi at 'End TB Summit' in Delhi pic.twitter.com/2EIArWJXq9 — ANI (@ANI) March 13, 2018 × According to reports, India loses over 220,000 people every year to tuberculosis. India is the highest TB burden country according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) 2011 data.

We aim to make India tuberculosis free by 2025: PM Modi at End TB Summit

<p>India&#39;s first set of brand new planes for the prime minister, president and vice-president will be customised and be ready for use by early 2020, senior government officials said.Two Boeing 777-300 ERs, bought by Air India recently, will be retrofitted to have VIP enclosures, a press conference room and a patient transport unit for medical emergencies</p>

<p>The aircraft will also be equipped with Wi-Fi on board and have anti-missile protection, a senior official said.A&nbsp;<a href="http://www.business-standard.com/search?type=news&amp;q=boeing+777" target="_blank">Boeing 777&nbsp;</a>unlike the older Boeing 747, which were borrowed from Air India as and when a VVIP visited overseas, can fly non-stop to the US, thereby dispensing with the need to halt for refuelling.</p>

<p>In February and March, Air India inducted three&nbsp;<a href="http://www.business-standard.com/search?type=news&amp;q=boeing+777" target="_blank">Boeing 777&nbsp;</a>aircraft, completing an order of 68 planes placed with the aerospace major in 2006.</p>

<p>Two of these three planes will be set aside exclusively for VVIP use.</p>

<p>&quot;The government will buy these aircraft from Air India,&quot; a senior official told PTI on the condition of anonymity.An aircraft exclusively for VVIPs -- such as the president, vice-president and prime minister -- will mean that Air India will no more have to ground aircraft from its fleet for special flights and re-configure them to include VIP enclosures, a press conference room etc for these operations.</p>

<p>Earlier, during the budget announcement for the next fiscal, the government had set aside an amount of Rs 44.69 billion for the purchase of these aircraft from Air India.</p>

<p>Officials in the know say that the amount would cover the cost of the plane, their retro-fitment, the cost of a spare engine as well as a special equipment box list or spare parts that need to be mandatorily onboard an aircraft.</p>

<p>The two planes will return to Boeing&#39;s facility in the US on June 1 and June 30 to undergo overhauling which will take 18 months.</p>

<p>The Indian Air Force is also negotiating with the US government for a special protection suite or anti-missile protection for these planes, it is reliably learnt.Air India will prepare a pool of 44 pilots for VVIP operations, four of whom will always be on standby and stationed in Delhi.</p>

<p>There will also be a dedicated team of engineers and cabin crew.To a question on how would privatisation of Air India effect deployment of pilots and cabin crew for the VVIP flights, a senior airline official said that the government is yet to finalise its decision on the matter.</p>


The aircraft will also be equipped with Wi-Fi on board and have anti-missile protection

India's first set of brand new planes for the prime minister, president and vice-president will be customised and be ready for use by early 2020, senior government officials said.Two Boeing 777-300 ERs, bought by Air India recently, will be retrofitted to have VIP enclosures, a press conference room and a patient transport unit for medical emergencies The aircraft will also be equipped with Wi-Fi on board and have anti-missile protection, a senior official said.A Boeing 777 unlike the older Boeing 747, which were borrowed from Air India as and when a VVIP visited overseas, can fly non-stop to the US, thereby dispensing with the need to halt for refuelling. In February and March, Air India inducted three Boeing 777 aircraft, completing an order of 68 planes placed with the aerospace major in 2006. Two of these three planes will be set aside exclusively for VVIP use. "The government will buy these aircraft from Air India," a senior official told PTI on the condition of anonymity.An aircraft exclusively for VVIPs -- such as the president, vice-president and prime minister -- will mean that Air India will no more have to ground aircraft from its fleet for special flights and re-configure them to include VIP enclosures, a press conference room etc for these operations. Earlier, during the budget announcement for the next fiscal, the government had set aside an amount of Rs 44.69 billion for the purchase of these aircraft from Air India. Officials in the know say that the amount would cover the cost of the plane, their retro-fitment, the cost of a spare engine as well as a special equipment box list or spare parts that need to be mandatorily onboard an aircraft. The two planes will return to Boeing's facility in the US on June 1 and June 30 to undergo overhauling which will take 18 months. The Indian Air Force is also negotiating with the US government for a special protection suite or anti-missile protection for these planes, it is reliably learnt.Air India will prepare a pool of 44 pilots for VVIP operations, four of whom will always be on standby and stationed in Delhi. There will also be a dedicated team of engineers and cabin crew.To a question on how would privatisation of Air India effect deployment of pilots and cabin crew for the VVIP flights, a senior airline official said that the government is yet to finalise its decision on the matter.

PM Modi, President Kovind to get their own planes by early 2020

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday inaugurated the 75 MW solar power plant in Mirzapur.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The largest solar power plant in Uttar Pradesh has been built in collaboration with French solar power giant Engie Solar at Dadar Kala, some 25 kms from Mirzapur under the International Solar Alliance (ISA) programme.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ca">Prime Minister Narendra Modi &amp; French President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmmanuelMacron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmmanuelMacron</a> inaugurate the Solar Power Plant in Mirzapur. <a href="https://t.co/DVFy3BoPRa">pic.twitter.com/DVFy3BoPRa</a></p>
&mdash; ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/973080662218543104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The two leaders will take a boat ride from Assi to Dashaswamedh Ghat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They will also visit the Deen Dayal Hastkala Sankul in Bada Lalpur, a trade facilitation centre for handicrafts, and hold an interaction with artisans and view a live demonstration of their crafts.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Prime Minister Narendra Modi &amp; French President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmmanuelMacron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmmanuelMacron</a> arrive at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hastkala Sankul in Bada Lalpur, Varanasi. <a href="https://t.co/M5x3onIuem">pic.twitter.com/M5x3onIuem</a></p>
&mdash; ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/973096220032937985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Following the boat ride, Modi and Macron will flag off a train between Maduadih Railway Station in Varanasi, and Patna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday, India and France co-hosted the first summit of the International Solar Alliance.</p>

<p>Macron, who is on a four-day visit to India, arrived in Varanasi on Monday, where he was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, on Saturday, India and France had inked 14 pacts, including in key areas of defence, nuclear energy and protection of classified information besides resolving to boost cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.</p>

<p>During a joint press conference, PM Modi asserted that the synergy between the two sides was from land to sky.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The two leaders will take a boat ride from Assi to Dashaswamedh Ghat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday inaugurated the 75 MW solar power plant in Mirzapur. The largest solar power plant in Uttar Pradesh has been built in collaboration with French solar power giant Engie Solar at Dadar Kala, some 25 kms from Mirzapur under the International Solar Alliance (ISA) programme. Prime Minister Narendra Modi & French President #EmmanuelMacron inaugurate the Solar Power Plant in Mirzapur. pic.twitter.com/DVFy3BoPRa — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 12, 2018 × The two leaders will take a boat ride from Assi to Dashaswamedh Ghat. They will also visit the Deen Dayal Hastkala Sankul in Bada Lalpur, a trade facilitation centre for handicrafts, and hold an interaction with artisans and view a live demonstration of their crafts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi & French President #EmmanuelMacron arrive at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hastkala Sankul in Bada Lalpur, Varanasi. pic.twitter.com/M5x3onIuem — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 12, 2018 × Following the boat ride, Modi and Macron will flag off a train between Maduadih Railway Station in Varanasi, and Patna. On Sunday, India and France co-hosted the first summit of the International Solar Alliance. Macron, who is on a four-day visit to India, arrived in Varanasi on Monday, where he was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Meanwhile, on Saturday, India and France had inked 14 pacts, including in key areas of defence, nuclear energy and protection of classified information besides resolving to boost cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. During a joint press conference, PM Modi asserted that the synergy between the two sides was from land to sky.

PM Modi, French President Macron inaugurate UP's largest solar power plant in Mirzapur

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron, who arrived on a four-day visit to India on March 9, is scheduled to visit Varanasi today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi will receive the French President, who will arrive by a special plane at the Lal Bahadur Shastri International airport on Monday morning.</p>

<p>The two leaders will take a special cruise on the Ganga, which also includes a meeting over lunch. &nbsp;</p>

<p>They are expected to hold a one-on-one discussion on several issues to boost the ties between the two countries.</p>

<p>After lunch, President Macron and PM Modi will head to Mirzapur, where they will inaugurate Uttar Pradesh&rsquo;s largest solar power.</p>

<p>The French president will conclude his India tour by visiting Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hastkala Sankul in Bada Lalpur.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, on Saturday, India and France inked 14 key agreements in the strategic areas of security, nuclear energy, and protection of classified information, as companies from the two countries signed contracts worth $16 billion.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The two leaders will take a special cruise on the Ganga

French President Emmanuel Macron, who arrived on a four-day visit to India on March 9, is scheduled to visit Varanasi today. Prime Minister Modi will receive the French President, who will arrive by a special plane at the Lal Bahadur Shastri International airport on Monday morning. The two leaders will take a special cruise on the Ganga, which also includes a meeting over lunch. They are expected to hold a one-on-one discussion on several issues to boost the ties between the two countries. After lunch, President Macron and PM Modi will head to Mirzapur, where they will inaugurate Uttar Pradesh’s largest solar power. The French president will conclude his India tour by visiting Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hastkala Sankul in Bada Lalpur. Meanwhile, on Saturday, India and France inked 14 key agreements in the strategic areas of security, nuclear energy, and protection of classified information, as companies from the two countries signed contracts worth $16 billion.

PM Modi, France President Macron to visit Varanasi today

<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written to BJP&#39;s Manoj Tiwari and Congress&#39; Ajay Maken seeking to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi. Kejriwal has also invited them for a meeting on 13 March to discuss the matter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sealing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sealing</a> issue: CM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArvindKejriwal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArvindKejriwal</a> writes to BJP&#39;s Manoj Tiwari &amp; Congress&#39; Ajay Maken, invites them for a meeting on 13 March over the matter. <a href="https://t.co/0gX0fop8p8">pic.twitter.com/0gX0fop8p8</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/972702782271688704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>CM <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-writes-to-pm-modi-urges-to-end-sealing-drive-35357">Kejriwal wrote to Prime Minister Narendra</a> Modi yesterday urging him to put an end to sealing drive. He also pushed for a bill in the Parliament that would bring sealing drives in Delhi to an end.</p>

<p>In his letter, Kejriwal noted sealing as an outcome of some loopholes in the law which can only be addressed by passing a bill in the parliament.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delhi CM <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a> writes to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> asking him to bring a bill in the Parliament to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi.<br />
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CM has also requested for a meeting with the PM to discuss this &#39;very serious&#39; issue. <a href="https://t.co/hll9KdeTfc">pic.twitter.com/hll9KdeTfc</a></p>
&mdash; AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/972319931227430912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;Honest traders and shopkeepers are facing the ill-effects of the sealing drive. These people are not dishonest, they work hard and pay taxes,&quot; read his letter.&nbsp;</p>


CM Kejriwal wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday urging him to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written to BJP's Manoj Tiwari and Congress' Ajay Maken seeking to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi. Kejriwal has also invited them for a meeting on 13 March to discuss the matter. #Delhi #Sealing issue: CM #ArvindKejriwal writes to BJP's Manoj Tiwari & Congress' Ajay Maken, invites them for a meeting on 13 March over the matter. pic.twitter.com/0gX0fop8p8 — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2018 × CM Kejriwal wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday urging him to put an end to sealing drive. He also pushed for a bill in the Parliament that would bring sealing drives in Delhi to an end. In his letter, Kejriwal noted sealing as an outcome of some loopholes in the law which can only be addressed by passing a bill in the parliament. Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal writes to PM @narendramodi asking him to bring a bill in the Parliament to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi. CM has also requested for a meeting with the PM to discuss this 'very serious' issue. pic.twitter.com/hll9KdeTfc — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) March 10, 2018 × "Honest traders and shopkeepers are facing the ill-effects of the sealing drive. These people are not dishonest, they work hard and pay taxes," read his letter.

After PM Modi, Kejriwal writes to Manoj Tiwari and Ajay Maken over sealing issue

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday suggested looking back to the Vedas in a bid to combat climate change.</p>

<p>&quot;Vedas consider the Sun as the soul of the world, it has been considered as a life nurturer. Today, for combating climate change, we need to look at this ancient idea to find a way,&quot; the Prime Minister noted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Veda&#39;s consider the sun as the soul of the world, it has been considered as a life nurturer. Today, for combating climate change, we need to look at this ancient idea to find a way: PM Modi at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalSolarAlliance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalSolarAlliance</a> <a href="https://t.co/NQmGxlM3yB">pic.twitter.com/NQmGxlM3yB</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/972696888653869056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>He also called for framing of regulations and standards to promote solar energy.</p>

<p>Speaking at the first ever International Solar Alliance Summit in New Delhi, the prime minister&nbsp;welcomed the measures to promote the use of affordable technology and called for raising the&nbsp;share of solar electricity in the energy mix.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Foreign dignitaries from 23 nations were in attendance at the summit. The event was co-hosted by India and France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The President of France gave the inaugural address at the event following by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who talked about solar energy deployment in the country. &nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;In India, we have launched the world&#39;s largest renewable energy expansion programme which will produce 175-gigawatt electricity from renewable sources by 2022; 100 gigawatts from solar,&quot; the Prime Minister noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also said that distribution of 28 crores LED bulbs in 3 years has saved close to $2 billion and 4 gigawatts of electricity.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">भारत में हमने दुनिया का सबसे बड़ा नवीकरणीय ऊर्जा विस्तार कार्यक्रम शुरू किया है।<br />
हम 2022 तक renewables से 175 GW बिजली उत्पन्न करेंगे जिसमें से 100 GW बिजली सौर से होगी। हमने इसमे से 20 GW installed solar power का लक्ष्य हासिल कर लिया है: PM</p>
&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/972696586131091457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;India will provide 500 training slots for ISA member countries; start solar tech mission to lead research and development in the sector,&quot; PM Modi stated.</p>

<p>He also suggested measures to increase solar energy consumption.</p>

<p>&quot;To promote the use of solar energy, the availability of technology and development, economic resources, reduction in prices, development of storage technology, mass manufacturing, and innovation require a complete ecosystem,&quot; PM Modi said.</p>

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed his country&#39;s commitment toward solar energy promotion on the occasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;With PM Modi, we are committed and have same obsession-creating momentum, inspiring people and gathering them to deliver results. But we&#39;re obsessed by concrete results, so now we are creating new momentum, we take new commitment to deliver complete results for our countries and the planet,&quot; Macron noted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">With PM Modi we are committed&amp;we hv same obsession-creating momentum,inspiring people&amp;gathering them to deliver results.But we&#39;re obsessed by concrete results,so now we are creating new momentum,we take new commitment to deliver complete results for our countries&amp;planet: E Macron <a href="https://t.co/fGzsC2VnZs">pic.twitter.com/fGzsC2VnZs</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/972697068069425153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The summit was attended by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid&nbsp;among other dignitaries.&nbsp;</p>


PM Modi also suggested measures to increase solar energy consumption

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday suggested looking back to the Vedas in a bid to combat climate change. "Vedas consider the Sun as the soul of the world, it has been considered as a life nurturer. Today, for combating climate change, we need to look at this ancient idea to find a way," the Prime Minister noted. Veda's consider the sun as the soul of the world, it has been considered as a life nurturer. Today, for combating climate change, we need to look at this ancient idea to find a way: PM Modi at #InternationalSolarAlliance pic.twitter.com/NQmGxlM3yB — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2018 × He also called for framing of regulations and standards to promote solar energy. Speaking at the first ever International Solar Alliance Summit in New Delhi, the prime minister welcomed the measures to promote the use of affordable technology and called for raising the share of solar electricity in the energy mix. Foreign dignitaries from 23 nations were in attendance at the summit. The event was co-hosted by India and France. The President of France gave the inaugural address at the event following by Prime Minister Narendra Modi who talked about solar energy deployment in the country. "In India, we have launched the world's largest renewable energy expansion programme which will produce 175-gigawatt electricity from renewable sources by 2022; 100 gigawatts from solar," the Prime Minister noted. He also said that distribution of 28 crores LED bulbs in 3 years has saved close to $2 billion and 4 gigawatts of electricity. भारत में हमने दुनिया का सबसे बड़ा नवीकरणीय ऊर्जा विस्तार कार्यक्रम शुरू किया है। हम 2022 तक renewables से 175 GW बिजली उत्पन्न करेंगे जिसमें से 100 GW बिजली सौर से होगी। हमने इसमे से 20 GW installed solar power का लक्ष्य हासिल कर लिया है: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) March 11, 2018 × "India will provide 500 training slots for ISA member countries; start solar tech mission to lead research and development in the sector," PM Modi stated. He also suggested measures to increase solar energy consumption. "To promote the use of solar energy, the availability of technology and development, economic resources, reduction in prices, development of storage technology, mass manufacturing, and innovation require a complete ecosystem," PM Modi said. French President Emmanuel Macron also expressed his country's commitment toward solar energy promotion on the occasion. "With PM Modi, we are committed and have same obsession-creating momentum, inspiring people and gathering them to deliver results. But we're obsessed by concrete results, so now we are creating new momentum, we take new commitment to deliver complete results for our countries and the planet," Macron noted. With PM Modi we are committed&we hv same obsession-creating momentum,inspiring people&gathering them to deliver results.But we're obsessed by concrete results,so now we are creating new momentum,we take new commitment to deliver complete results for our countries&planet: E Macron pic.twitter.com/fGzsC2VnZs — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2018 × The summit was attended by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid among other dignitaries.

Turn to vedas to combat climate change: Modi at Solar Summit

<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi. Kejriwal also pushed for a bill in the Parliament that would bring sealing drives in Delhi to an end.</p>

<p>He also requested the Prime Minister for a meeting to discuss this &#39;very serious&#39; issue.</p>

<p>Kejriwal&#39;s letter to the Prime Minister was tweeted out from Aam Aadmi Party&#39;s Twitter handle yesterday.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delhi CM <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a> writes to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> asking him to bring a bill in the Parliament to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi.<br />
<br />
CM has also requested for a meeting with the PM to discuss this &#39;very serious&#39; issue. <a href="https://t.co/hll9KdeTfc">pic.twitter.com/hll9KdeTfc</a></p>
&mdash; AAP (@AamAadmiParty) <a href="https://twitter.com/AamAadmiParty/status/972319931227430912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&quot;Honest traders and shopkeepers are facing the ill-effects of the sealing drive. These people are not dishonest, they work hard and pay taxes,&quot; read the letter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his letter, Kejriwal noted sealing as an outcome of some loopholes in the law which can only be addressed by passing a bill in the parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Supreme Court-appointed committee ordered various municipal corporations in the national capital region to carry out sealing drives. Hundreds of commercial established have borne the brunt of the drive that began in December last year. The sealing drive has been carried out to keep a check on the violators who did not pay &#39;conversion charges&#39; or violated Delhi Master Plan.&nbsp;</p>


Kejriwal's letter to Prime Minister was tweeted out from Aam Aadmi Party's official handle yesterday

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi. Kejriwal also pushed for a bill in the Parliament that would bring sealing drives in Delhi to an end. He also requested the Prime Minister for a meeting to discuss this 'very serious' issue. Kejriwal's letter to the Prime Minister was tweeted out from Aam Aadmi Party's Twitter handle yesterday. Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal writes to PM @narendramodi asking him to bring a bill in the Parliament to put an end to sealing drive in Delhi. CM has also requested for a meeting with the PM to discuss this 'very serious' issue. pic.twitter.com/hll9KdeTfc — AAP (@AamAadmiParty) March 10, 2018 × "Honest traders and shopkeepers are facing the ill-effects of the sealing drive. These people are not dishonest, they work hard and pay taxes," read the letter. In his letter, Kejriwal noted sealing as an outcome of some loopholes in the law which can only be addressed by passing a bill in the parliament. A Supreme Court-appointed committee ordered various municipal corporations in the national capital region to carry out sealing drives. Hundreds of commercial established have borne the brunt of the drive that began in December last year. The sealing drive has been carried out to keep a check on the violators who did not pay 'conversion charges' or violated Delhi Master Plan.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal writes to PM Modi, urges to end sealing drive

<p>Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written&nbsp;letters&nbsp;to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi seeking a law against the sealing drive in Delhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sealing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sealing</a> issue: CM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArvindKejriwal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArvindKejriwal</a> writes to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NarendraModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NarendraModi</a> and Congress President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RahulGandhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RahulGandhi</a> asking for a law to be made on the issue, also seeks meeting time from the two leaders <a href="https://t.co/NM0DV7uvrE">pic.twitter.com/NM0DV7uvrE</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/972323412713590784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the letter to the Prime Minister, Kejriwal has&nbsp;written&nbsp;that the sealing is being undertaken because of some irregularities in the law.</p>

<p>He wrote that the centre was supposed to tackle such irregularities, however, it did not mend these on time, and now the people have to face the consequence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kejriwal added that the sealing drive was affecting the people who pay taxes and contribute to the development of the country.</p>

<p>He said to secure the earning of thousands of such people&nbsp;the parliament needs to pass an urgent bill. He added that unemployment at such a high rate will also affect law and order.</p>

<p>He said in his letter that these shopkeepers&nbsp;are at the extreme end of reaching poverty, one shop in the area supports the life of several people.</p>

<p>The chief minister&nbsp;also requested for opening&nbsp;the shops that have already been shut down after sealing.</p>

<p>In his letter to the Congress President, the AAP chief said that the opposition should debate on&nbsp;the sealing drive issue in Parliament.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


He has also sought appointments to meet the two leaders

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has written letters to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress President Rahul Gandhi seeking a law against the sealing drive in Delhi. #Delhi #Sealing issue: CM #ArvindKejriwal writes to PM #NarendraModi and Congress President #RahulGandhi asking for a law to be made on the issue, also seeks meeting time from the two leaders pic.twitter.com/NM0DV7uvrE — ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2018 × In the letter to the Prime Minister, Kejriwal has written that the sealing is being undertaken because of some irregularities in the law. He wrote that the centre was supposed to tackle such irregularities, however, it did not mend these on time, and now the people have to face the consequence. Kejriwal added that the sealing drive was affecting the people who pay taxes and contribute to the development of the country. He said to secure the earning of thousands of such people the parliament needs to pass an urgent bill. He added that unemployment at such a high rate will also affect law and order. He said in his letter that these shopkeepers are at the extreme end of reaching poverty, one shop in the area supports the life of several people. The chief minister also requested for opening the shops that have already been shut down after sealing. In his letter to the Congress President, the AAP chief said that the opposition should debate on the sealing drive issue in Parliament.

Arvind Kejriwal writes letter to PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi seeking bill against ceiling drive

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Saturday.</p>

<p>Earlier, he met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delhi: French President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmmanuelMacron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmmanuelMacron</a> and PM Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House <a href="https://t.co/sztCMbslqE">pic.twitter.com/sztCMbslqE</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/972354038124642304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Accompanied by his wife Brigitte Macron and M.J. Akbar, the Minister of State for External Affairs, &nbsp;Macron visited Rajghat and paid his tribute at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi.</p>

<p>President Macron signed the visitor&#39;s book and was presented with a bust of Mahatma&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, President Macron arrived at the Rashtrapati Bhawan and inspected a guard of honour.</p>

<p>He also met with his Indian counterpart Ram Nath Kovind, his wife Savita Kovind.</p>

<p>PM Modi and President Macron will hold delegation level talks later today.</p>

<p>During the talks, both the leaders are expected to review the progress achieved in bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several agreements are expected to be signed in various areas.</p>


Earlier, he met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

French President Emmanuel Macron met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on Saturday. Earlier, he met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Delhi: French President #EmmanuelMacron and PM Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House pic.twitter.com/sztCMbslqE — ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2018 × Accompanied by his wife Brigitte Macron and M.J. Akbar, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Macron visited Rajghat and paid his tribute at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. President Macron signed the visitor's book and was presented with a bust of Mahatma Earlier in the day, President Macron arrived at the Rashtrapati Bhawan and inspected a guard of honour. He also met with his Indian counterpart Ram Nath Kovind, his wife Savita Kovind. PM Modi and President Macron will hold delegation level talks later today. During the talks, both the leaders are expected to review the progress achieved in bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Several agreements are expected to be signed in various areas.

French President Emmanuel Macron meets PM Modi at Hyderabad House

<p>Ahead of the International Solar Alliance, Prime Minister Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind welcomed the heads of various governments participating in the event.</p>

<p>The heads of the state were welcomed at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>PM Modi meets President of Niger, Mahamadou Issoufou. (ANI)</p>
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<p>PM Narendra Modi meets President of Nauru, Baron Waqa. (ANI)</p>
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<p>PM Narendra Modi meets President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo. (ANI)</p>
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<p>PM Modi meets Vice President of C&ocirc;te d&#39;Ivoire, Daniel Kablan Duncan. (ANI)</p>
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<p>PM Narendra Modi meets Prime Minister of Chad, Albert Pahimi Padack&eacute;. (ANI)</p>
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<p>Governor-General of Australia Peter Cosgrove &amp; his wife Lynne Cosgrove arrive at the Rashtrapati Bhavan (ANI)</p>
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<p>President Ram Nath Kovind, First Lady of India Savita Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and PM Narendra Modi receive President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena. (ANI)</p>
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<p>President of Nauru, Baron Waqa being welcomed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Ram Nath Kovind, First Lady of India Savita Kovind, PM Narendra Modi and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. (ANI)</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: President Ram Nath Kovind, First Lady of India Savita Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and PM Narendra Modi receive President of France <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmmanuelMacron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmmanuelMacron</a> and his wife Brigitte Macron. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalSolarAlliance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalSolarAlliance</a> <a href="https://t.co/KvaAL7ROUq">pic.twitter.com/KvaAL7ROUq</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/972481531334811648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> live from Delhi: Welcome ceremony for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalSolarAlliance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalSolarAlliance</a> <a href="https://t.co/ySIDTK7G2k">https://t.co/ySIDTK7G2k</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/972473721775509504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind welcomed the heads of various governments participating in the International solar alliance

Ahead of the International Solar Alliance, Prime Minister Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind welcomed the heads of various governments participating in the event. The heads of the state were welcomed at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. PM Modi meets President of Niger, Mahamadou Issoufou. (ANI) × PM Narendra Modi meets President of Nauru, Baron Waqa. (ANI) × PM Narendra Modi meets President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo. (ANI) × PM Modi meets Vice President of Côte d'Ivoire, Daniel Kablan Duncan. (ANI) × PM Narendra Modi meets Prime Minister of Chad, Albert Pahimi Padacké. (ANI) × Governor-General of Australia Peter Cosgrove & his wife Lynne Cosgrove arrive at the Rashtrapati Bhavan (ANI) × President Ram Nath Kovind, First Lady of India Savita Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and PM Narendra Modi receive President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena. (ANI) × President of Nauru, Baron Waqa being welcomed at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Ram Nath Kovind, First Lady of India Savita Kovind, PM Narendra Modi and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu. (ANI) × #WATCH: President Ram Nath Kovind, First Lady of India Savita Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and PM Narendra Modi receive President of France #EmmanuelMacron and his wife Brigitte Macron. #InternationalSolarAlliance pic.twitter.com/KvaAL7ROUq — ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2018 × #WATCH live from Delhi: Welcome ceremony for #InternationalSolarAlliance https://t.co/ySIDTK7G2k — ANI (@ANI) March 10, 2018 ×

In pics: PM Modi, President Kovind host world leaders for International Solar Alliance

<p>Responding to a question in Malaysia&nbsp;on how the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-discusses-jobs-economy-in-singapore-35059" target="_blank">Congress </a>would have rolled out demonetisation, Rahul Gandhi said he would have thrown the proposal for demonetisation in a dustbin.</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-discusses-jobs-economy-in-singapore-35059" target="_blank">Rahul Gandhi discusses jobs, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-discusses-jobs-economy-in-singapore-35059" target="_blank">economy</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-discusses-jobs-economy-in-singapore-35059" target="_blank"> in Singapore</a></p>

<p>He said that demonetisation was &quot;not a good&quot; initiative and if he were the prime minister he would have thrown the proposal in a dustbin.</p>

<p>Gandhi was speaking in Malaysia with an &quot;enthusiastic gathering&quot; of the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur.</p>

<p>Asked how he would have rolled out demonetisation differently, Gandhi said: &quot;if I was the Prime Minister and somebody would have given me a file with demonetisation written on it, I would thrown it in the dustbin, out of the door and into the junkyard.&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;That is how I would have rolled it out because that is what I think should have been done with the demonetisation which was not good at all,&quot; he said.</p>

<p>Congress has been very critical of Demonetisation since its roll-out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier at the University of California, Gandhi had called the move as &quot; reckless and dangerous&quot; decision taken by Prime Minister Modi.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi is on a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/singapore-author-questions-rahul-gandhi-on-family-rule-twitter-on-fire-35211" target="_blank">five-day trip to the Southeast Asian countries</a>.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)</em></p>


Responding to a question in Malaysia, on how the Congress would have rolled out demonetisation, Rahul Gandhi said he would have thrown the proposal for demonetisation in a dustbin

Responding to a question in Malaysia on how the Congress would have rolled out demonetisation, Rahul Gandhi said he would have thrown the proposal for demonetisation in a dustbin. Also read: Rahul Gandhi discusses jobs, economy in Singapore He said that demonetisation was "not a good" initiative and if he were the prime minister he would have thrown the proposal in a dustbin. Gandhi was speaking in Malaysia with an "enthusiastic gathering" of the Indian diaspora in Kuala Lumpur. Asked how he would have rolled out demonetisation differently, Gandhi said: "if I was the Prime Minister and somebody would have given me a file with demonetisation written on it, I would thrown it in the dustbin, out of the door and into the junkyard." "That is how I would have rolled it out because that is what I think should have been done with the demonetisation which was not good at all," he said. Congress has been very critical of Demonetisation since its roll-out. Earlier at the University of California, Gandhi had called the move as " reckless and dangerous" decision taken by Prime Minister Modi. Rahul Gandhi is on a five-day trip to the Southeast Asian countries. (With inputs from PTI)

If I were PM, would have thrown demonetisation proposal in dustbin: Rahul Gandhi

<p>President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday accepted the resignations of TDP ministers from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government, a day after they stepped down in protest against the Centre&#39;s failure to give Andhra Pradesh a special status category.</p>

<p>TDP MP Ashok Gajapathi Raju Pasupati was heading the Ministry of Civil Aviation, while another MP YS Chowdary was Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;Further, as advised by the Prime Minister, The President has directed that the work of the Ministry of Civil Aviation will be looked after by the Prime Minister,&quot; said a statement from Rashtrapati Bhawan</p>

<p>The President has also directed that the work of the Ministry of Civil Aviation will now be looked after by the Prime Minister.</p>

<p>TDP pulled out of the Modi government yesterday but kept a window open for rapprochement by deciding to remain part of the NDA.</p>

<p>The two TDP ministers had met the prime minister last evening and handed over their resignation letters.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


TDP pulled out of the Modi government yesterday but kept a window open for rapprochement by deciding to remain part of the NDA.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday accepted the resignations of TDP ministers from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government, a day after they stepped down in protest against the Centre's failure to give Andhra Pradesh a special status category. TDP MP Ashok Gajapathi Raju Pasupati was heading the Ministry of Civil Aviation, while another MP YS Chowdary was Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences. "Further, as advised by the Prime Minister, The President has directed that the work of the Ministry of Civil Aviation will be looked after by the Prime Minister," said a statement from Rashtrapati Bhawan The President has also directed that the work of the Ministry of Civil Aviation will now be looked after by the Prime Minister. TDP pulled out of the Modi government yesterday but kept a window open for rapprochement by deciding to remain part of the NDA. The two TDP ministers had met the prime minister last evening and handed over their resignation letters.

President Kovind accepts TDP ministers' resignations, directs PM to look after Civil Aviation

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron&rsquo;s upcoming visit to India from 9 to 12 March will have many discussion points on the agenda, the main one being maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Specifically, China&rsquo;s power projection, its worrying stance on freedom of navigation and combating piracy are the converging interests that can bring France and India closer together on the maritime security front. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Why is France an Indian Ocean Power?</p>

<p>Like India, France is an Indian Ocean Power and a middle power with a similar culture of strategic autonomy. France has the largest Exclusive Economic Zone (11 million square kilometres) in the world out which 24% lies in the IOR. Three of these overseas territories: Reunion, Mayotte and The French Southern Antarctic Islands constitute a total of almost 1 million French citizens living in the IOR. France also has military bases in Djibouti and The UAE. This gives France significant sovereign, demographic and economic interests to defend militarily in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China has a growing footprint of commercial bases in the India Ocean. The problem is that the commercial utility of these bases is questionable which invariably acts as a fa&ccedil;ade for militarisation, &nbsp;loss of sovereignty or both. This can be seen with Hambantota in Sri Lanka and Gwadar in Pakistan, both of which started off as commercial operations, collapsed commercially, and then played (or will play) host to Chinese nuclear submarines. These ports are interlinked with a heavy regional architecture in the form of rail and road infrastructure and are linked up to Chinese ports in the Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Seychelles. China also built its first purposed military base in Djibouti, controlling the Mandeb Strait, one of the most significant maritime oil trade chokepoints. The 2013 French white paper showed concern over the dual-use nature of this presence. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The common reason for concern with India is China&rsquo;s position on the freedom of military navigation in the South China Sea. French Indian Ocean territories have sea links with French Pacific territories like New Caledonia. These lines of communication run through several South East Asian straits, where the Chinese have been posturing aggressively. Given China&rsquo;s controversial position on freedom of military navigation in its contested Exclusive Economic Zone in the South China Sea (SCS) and the East China Sea (ECS), there are chances that China can extend the same kind of hegemonic power play even in the Indo-Pacific at a later date. These paradigms if applied to the Chinese bases in Djibouti, Gwadar et al, would be disastrous for both India and France, hindering the defence on critical overseas territories.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>France mentions its stance on freedom of navigation very clearly in its 2015 document on National Strategy for the Security of Maritime Areas hinting towards the actions of certain East Asian powers which can &ldquo;threaten France&rsquo;s freedom of navigation in the international waters&rdquo;. &nbsp;&nbsp;Similarly, the Defence Minister A K Antony&#39;s speech at the Shangrila Dialogue in Singapore in 2012 railed against Chinese Maritime Imperialism. These expressions of common concern now need to translate into common actions. &nbsp;It is particularly important to challenge Chinese imposed paradigms in the SCS, in order to prevent their spread to the IOR. Joint Indian and French Freedom of navigation operations in the SCS can do much to stiffen the spine of SCS countries and draw clear lines with regards to the IOR.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another vital element of freedom of navigation is counter-piracy operations. The sea link of the French Indian Ocean territories to France passes through the red sea in the west and to the French Pacific Territories via the South East Asian straits in the east. These are the two most heavily piracy-infested water around. In the past, India has been cooperated with France on Operation Atlanta, a counter-piracy military operation at the sea off the Horn of Africa and in the Western Indian Ocean. Equally, the joint protection of fisheries which are important to both French Indian Ocean territories and India is critical as is the need to contain any maritime fallout of instability arising out of the situation in Somalia, Yemen etc as this can very easily spread to both if not checked at the source. The potential synergy here is immense. French military bases in Djibouti and Abu Dhabi dominate the western IOR while Indian bases in the Andamans dominate the eastern IOR. A logistics agreement allowing the sharing of bases and refuelling facilities can significantly reduce costs and duplication making any synergy more effective. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the considerable strategic clout that France and India possess in the IOR, this particular aspect of the bilateral relationship has been rather downplayed for decades given India&#39;s continental obsession. However, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, one can see a much-needed revival of a maritime focus in Indian foreign policy thinking. &nbsp;This and the similarities in both country&#39;s international outlook could lead to intensified cooperation in this much-neglected sphere. However, this has to be directed by both leaders and be a top-down approach. The hope is that Macron&#39;s visit will give a stimulus to this much-understated facet of possible India-France cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The </em>opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;</p>


The common reason for concern with India and France is China, growing its footprints of commercial bases in the India Ocean. Thus, maritime cooperation in (IOR) will be the main agenda of French President Emmanuel Macron’s upcoming visit to India.

French President Emmanuel Macron’s upcoming visit to India from 9 to 12 March will have many discussion points on the agenda, the main one being maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Specifically, China’s power projection, its worrying stance on freedom of navigation and combating piracy are the converging interests that can bring France and India closer together on the maritime security front. Why is France an Indian Ocean Power? Like India, France is an Indian Ocean Power and a middle power with a similar culture of strategic autonomy. France has the largest Exclusive Economic Zone (11 million square kilometres) in the world out which 24% lies in the IOR. Three of these overseas territories: Reunion, Mayotte and The French Southern Antarctic Islands constitute a total of almost 1 million French citizens living in the IOR. France also has military bases in Djibouti and The UAE. This gives France significant sovereign, demographic and economic interests to defend militarily in the region. China has a growing footprint of commercial bases in the India Ocean. The problem is that the commercial utility of these bases is questionable which invariably acts as a façade for militarisation, loss of sovereignty or both. This can be seen with Hambantota in Sri Lanka and Gwadar in Pakistan, both of which started off as commercial operations, collapsed commercially, and then played (or will play) host to Chinese nuclear submarines. These ports are interlinked with a heavy regional architecture in the form of rail and road infrastructure and are linked up to Chinese ports in the Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Seychelles. China also built its first purposed military base in Djibouti, controlling the Mandeb Strait, one of the most significant maritime oil trade chokepoints. The 2013 French white paper showed concern over the dual-use nature of this presence. The common reason for concern with India is China’s position on the freedom of military navigation in the South China Sea. French Indian Ocean territories have sea links with French Pacific territories like New Caledonia. These lines of communication run through several South East Asian straits, where the Chinese have been posturing aggressively. Given China’s controversial position on freedom of military navigation in its contested Exclusive Economic Zone in the South China Sea (SCS) and the East China Sea (ECS), there are chances that China can extend the same kind of hegemonic power play even in the Indo-Pacific at a later date. These paradigms if applied to the Chinese bases in Djibouti, Gwadar et al, would be disastrous for both India and France, hindering the defence on critical overseas territories. France mentions its stance on freedom of navigation very clearly in its 2015 document on National Strategy for the Security of Maritime Areas hinting towards the actions of certain East Asian powers which can “threaten France’s freedom of navigation in the international waters”. Similarly, the Defence Minister A K Antony's speech at the Shangrila Dialogue in Singapore in 2012 railed against Chinese Maritime Imperialism. These expressions of common concern now need to translate into common actions. It is particularly important to challenge Chinese imposed paradigms in the SCS, in order to prevent their spread to the IOR. Joint Indian and French Freedom of navigation operations in the SCS can do much to stiffen the spine of SCS countries and draw clear lines with regards to the IOR. Another vital element of freedom of navigation is counter-piracy operations. The sea link of the French Indian Ocean territories to France passes through the red sea in the west and to the French Pacific Territories via the South East Asian straits in the east. These are the two most heavily piracy-infested water around. In the past, India has been cooperated with France on Operation Atlanta, a counter-piracy military operation at the sea off the Horn of Africa and in the Western Indian Ocean. Equally, the joint protection of fisheries which are important to both French Indian Ocean territories and India is critical as is the need to contain any maritime fallout of instability arising out of the situation in Somalia, Yemen etc as this can very easily spread to both if not checked at the source. The potential synergy here is immense. French military bases in Djibouti and Abu Dhabi dominate the western IOR while Indian bases in the Andamans dominate the eastern IOR. A logistics agreement allowing the sharing of bases and refuelling facilities can significantly reduce costs and duplication making any synergy more effective. Despite the considerable strategic clout that France and India possess in the IOR, this particular aspect of the bilateral relationship has been rather downplayed for decades given India's continental obsession. However, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, one can see a much-needed revival of a maritime focus in Indian foreign policy thinking. This and the similarities in both country's international outlook could lead to intensified cooperation in this much-neglected sphere. However, this has to be directed by both leaders and be a top-down approach. The hope is that Macron's visit will give a stimulus to this much-understated facet of possible India-France cooperation. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: India-France maritime cooperation in IOR needed, to stop China's involvement

<p>On International Women&#39;s Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered 106-year-old Kunwar Bai who had inspired him. The Prime Minister interacted with Bai on his visits to Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SheInspiresMe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SheInspiresMe</a>- Kunwar Bai, who died earlier this year at the age of 106. Hailing from Chhattisgarh, she sold her goats in order to build toilets. Her contribution towards a Swachh Bharat can never be forgotten. I am deeply inspired by her noble gesture. <a href="https://t.co/eANQz01ZYE">pic.twitter.com/eANQz01ZYE</a></p>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/971558745074384896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Bai died at 106 earlier this year and is believed to have left behind stories of her undying commitment toward a cleaner environment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KXBGQ21zYnY" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>&quot;Hailing from Chhattisgarh, she sold her goats in order to build toilets. Her contribution towards a Swachh Bharat can never be forgotten. I am deeply inspired by her noble gesture,&quot; read PM Modi&#39;s tweet.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I will always cherish the time when I had the opportunity to seek Kunwar Bai&rsquo;s blessings during one of my visits to Chhattisgarh. Kunwar Bai lives on in the hearts and minds of all those who are passionate towards fulfilling Bapu&rsquo;s dream of a clean India. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SheInspiresMe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SheInspiresMe</a> <a href="https://t.co/Gdt5STszgr">pic.twitter.com/Gdt5STszgr</a></p>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/971559804597612545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi further noted that Bai&#39;s deeds live on and that she continues to inspire him and the entire nation. &nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;I will always cherish the time when I had the opportunity to seek Kunwar Bai&rsquo;s blessings during one of my visits to Chhattisgarh. Kunwar Bai lives on in the hearts and minds of all those who are passionate towards fulfilling Bapu&rsquo;s dream of a clean India,&quot; PM Modi tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Through their exemplary deeds, several women have left an indelible mark in the history of humankind. They continue to inspire generations. I urge you to write about some women who inspire you. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SheInspiresMe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SheInspiresMe</a></p>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/971557928397193216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Prime Minister also urged others to share and write about women who inspire them.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


PM Modi further noted that Bai's deeds live on and that she continues to inspire him and the entire nation

On International Women's Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered 106-year-old Kunwar Bai who had inspired him. The Prime Minister interacted with Bai on his visits to Chhattisgarh. #SheInspiresMe- Kunwar Bai, who died earlier this year at the age of 106. Hailing from Chhattisgarh, she sold her goats in order to build toilets. Her contribution towards a Swachh Bharat can never be forgotten. I am deeply inspired by her noble gesture. pic.twitter.com/eANQz01ZYE — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 8, 2018 × Bai died at 106 earlier this year and is believed to have left behind stories of her undying commitment toward a cleaner environment. "Hailing from Chhattisgarh, she sold her goats in order to build toilets. Her contribution towards a Swachh Bharat can never be forgotten. I am deeply inspired by her noble gesture," read PM Modi's tweet. I will always cherish the time when I had the opportunity to seek Kunwar Bai’s blessings during one of my visits to Chhattisgarh. Kunwar Bai lives on in the hearts and minds of all those who are passionate towards fulfilling Bapu’s dream of a clean India. #SheInspiresMe pic.twitter.com/Gdt5STszgr — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 8, 2018 × PM Modi further noted that Bai's deeds live on and that she continues to inspire him and the entire nation. "I will always cherish the time when I had the opportunity to seek Kunwar Bai’s blessings during one of my visits to Chhattisgarh. Kunwar Bai lives on in the hearts and minds of all those who are passionate towards fulfilling Bapu’s dream of a clean India," PM Modi tweeted. Through their exemplary deeds, several women have left an indelible mark in the history of humankind. They continue to inspire generations. I urge you to write about some women who inspire you. #SheInspiresMe — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 8, 2018 × The Prime Minister also urged others to share and write about women who inspire them.

On International Women's Day, PM Modi remembers 106-year-old Kunwar Bai from Chhattisgarh

<p>Political circles and national media are abuzz with the talk of Third Front being resurrected under the leadership of Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR). I am not sure what excites them given the unmitigated disaster that the Third Front turned out to be for India in its earlier avatars. It seems as if a section of media and &lsquo;intellectuals&rsquo; would rather see India embrace another disaster than &lsquo;tolerate&rsquo; another term for Modi Sarkar.</p>

<p>Whether the Third Front actually fructifies or not and even if it fructifies, will it succeed or not has become a subject of great speculation and analysis. However, what has remained missing from all this analysis is - if KCR himself will benefit from this move or not. It seems foolhardy to even raise this question for it seems a foregone conclusion that not only will KCR sweep Telangana but will also benefit greatly from his increased national stature. This write up is an attempt to play the devil&rsquo;s advocate and explore if the move could actually backfire.</p>

<p>To understand the implications of this move &ndash; positive or negative &ndash; we will have to first understand KCR&rsquo;s sources of strength. Without a doubt, KCR is a hugely popular leader in Telangana and his popularity has only grown over the years. The main reason for his popularity is his success in achieving separate statehood for Telangana. &lsquo;Good&rsquo; performance of his government has further added to his popularity. However, there is another reason for his popularity and it is the complete absence of any credible alternative to KCR and his party TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samiti) in Telangana.</p>

<p>Whatever little remained of the opposition after the formation of Telangana was slowly and methodically subsumed in TRS itself. From just 63 members in the house of 119 in 2014, the tally of TRS MLAs went up to 90 in 2017, while that of Congress went down from 21 to 12 and that of TDP from 15 to 3 - &nbsp;without ever drawing the provisions of anti-defection law and without causing as much as a whisper of any harm to democracy anywhere in the national media. Not only was all political opposition emaciated but so also was any kind of criticism in the media. KCR openly threatened media by saying that he&rsquo;ll &ldquo;bury them alive in the ground&rdquo; and even got two Telugu channels pulled off the air for a few days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It might surprise you, or not, that the great champions of free speech in the nation never raised a hell, calling &quot;democracy under threat&quot; at that time. And now, it is these very champions of free speech who seem to be cheering the loudest in support of KCR and his proposed &quot;qualitative change&quot; at the national level.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, from playing in a field in which he had absolutely no worthy opponent, it is baffling as to why KCR is drawing Mr. Modi, the strongest and the most popular leader of all into his arena? Why would he want to transform the contest from KCR vs. none in Telangana to KCR vs. Modi? He surely is not going to win any additional seat outside Telangana but would instead run the risk of losing a few seats to Mr. Modi in Telangana. Why then is he making the mistake of confronting Mr. Modi and giving more credence to the BJP&rsquo;s trump card?</p>

<p>As written above, Chief Minister KCR is very popular in Telangana but so is Prime Minister Modi. Confronting Mr. Modi and criticising him may turn out to be neither a popular tactic nor a very successful one. Lessons can be learned from the experience of Arvind Kejriwal, who tried a similar tactic in 2014 after his success in 2013 Delhi elections. Mr. Kejriwal ended up burning both himself and his party by losing all 7 Lok Sabha seats in Delhi. It is perhaps this very realisation that got the Aam Aadmi Party to use &ldquo;Modi for PM and Arvind for CM&rdquo; slogan on its website for the 2015 Delhi Elections. The slogan may have been soon withdrawn but the message had already been sent out.</p>

<p>A message has been sent out by the people to Mr. KCR as well on his new strategy but not sure if he is listening. KCR spoke of Mr. Modi in a disrespectful, if not an insulting tone, in a recent speech and this has drawn hugely negative reactions from a large section of people, including those from the hard-core supporters of KCR and his TRS party.</p>

<p>What finally happens in 2019 will, of course, depend on a whole lot of other things. However, one thing is for sure - KCR vs. Modi will give the BJP, in Telangana, an issue where it had none and will give it a good chance in at least a couple and more Lok Sabha seats if not assembly seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;</em></p>


K. Chandrashekhar Rao wants to transform the contest from KCR vs. none to KCR vs. Modi. He surely is not going to win any additional seat outside Telangana but would instead run the risk of losing a few seats to Mr. Modi in Telangana.

Political circles and national media are abuzz with the talk of Third Front being resurrected under the leadership of Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR). I am not sure what excites them given the unmitigated disaster that the Third Front turned out to be for India in its earlier avatars. It seems as if a section of media and ‘intellectuals’ would rather see India embrace another disaster than ‘tolerate’ another term for Modi Sarkar. Whether the Third Front actually fructifies or not and even if it fructifies, will it succeed or not has become a subject of great speculation and analysis. However, what has remained missing from all this analysis is - if KCR himself will benefit from this move or not. It seems foolhardy to even raise this question for it seems a foregone conclusion that not only will KCR sweep Telangana but will also benefit greatly from his increased national stature. This write up is an attempt to play the devil’s advocate and explore if the move could actually backfire. To understand the implications of this move – positive or negative – we will have to first understand KCR’s sources of strength. Without a doubt, KCR is a hugely popular leader in Telangana and his popularity has only grown over the years. The main reason for his popularity is his success in achieving separate statehood for Telangana. ‘Good’ performance of his government has further added to his popularity. However, there is another reason for his popularity and it is the complete absence of any credible alternative to KCR and his party TRS (Telangana Rashtra Samiti) in Telangana. Whatever little remained of the opposition after the formation of Telangana was slowly and methodically subsumed in TRS itself. From just 63 members in the house of 119 in 2014, the tally of TRS MLAs went up to 90 in 2017, while that of Congress went down from 21 to 12 and that of TDP from 15 to 3 - without ever drawing the provisions of anti-defection law and without causing as much as a whisper of any harm to democracy anywhere in the national media. Not only was all political opposition emaciated but so also was any kind of criticism in the media. KCR openly threatened media by saying that he’ll “bury them alive in the ground” and even got two Telugu channels pulled off the air for a few days. It might surprise you, or not, that the great champions of free speech in the nation never raised a hell, calling "democracy under threat" at that time. And now, it is these very champions of free speech who seem to be cheering the loudest in support of KCR and his proposed "qualitative change" at the national level. Thus, from playing in a field in which he had absolutely no worthy opponent, it is baffling as to why KCR is drawing Mr. Modi, the strongest and the most popular leader of all into his arena? Why would he want to transform the contest from KCR vs. none in Telangana to KCR vs. Modi? He surely is not going to win any additional seat outside Telangana but would instead run the risk of losing a few seats to Mr. Modi in Telangana. Why then is he making the mistake of confronting Mr. Modi and giving more credence to the BJP’s trump card? As written above, Chief Minister KCR is very popular in Telangana but so is Prime Minister Modi. Confronting Mr. Modi and criticising him may turn out to be neither a popular tactic nor a very successful one. Lessons can be learned from the experience of Arvind Kejriwal, who tried a similar tactic in 2014 after his success in 2013 Delhi elections. Mr. Kejriwal ended up burning both himself and his party by losing all 7 Lok Sabha seats in Delhi. It is perhaps this very realisation that got the Aam Aadmi Party to use “Modi for PM and Arvind for CM” slogan on its website for the 2015 Delhi Elections. The slogan may have been soon withdrawn but the message had already been sent out. A message has been sent out by the people to Mr. KCR as well on his new strategy but not sure if he is listening. KCR spoke of Mr. Modi in a disrespectful, if not an insulting tone, in a recent speech and this has drawn hugely negative reactions from a large section of people, including those from the hard-core supporters of KCR and his TRS party. What finally happens in 2019 will, of course, depend on a whole lot of other things. However, one thing is for sure - KCR vs. Modi will give the BJP, in Telangana, an issue where it had none and will give it a good chance in at least a couple and more Lok Sabha seats if not assembly seats. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Chandrashekhar Rao plans to challenge PM Modi in Telangana

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday told the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) ministers who resigned from the Union Cabinet that he is with Andhra Pradesh.</p>

<p>This was informed by YS Chowdary at a press conference in presence of Ashok Gajapathi Raju.</p>

<p>Union Aviation Minister Raju and Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences YS Chowdary submitted their resignations to Prime Minister Modi on Thursday evening amid the ongoing TDP-BJP tussle over the special status for Andhra Pradesh.</p>

<p>They resigned on the directions of TDP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.</p>

<p>&quot;Prime Minister Modi received us cordially and said that whatever delay has happened, but we will work towards it. The Prime Minister said clearly that &#39;I am with Andhra Pradesh and I will serve people of the state&#39;,&quot; Chowdary told reporters.</p>

<p>Replying a question about what was the way forward, Chowdary said, &quot;We have to ensure whatever commitments and assurances given in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act as well as the promises made by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on the floor of the Rajya Sabha are fulfilled.&quot;</p>

<p>He said that since they have resigned from the council of ministers so they will have more freedom in the parliament to pursue the issues.</p>

<p>While answering another question, Chowdary said it was not fair to expect Prime Minister Modi to deal with these issues.</p>

<p>&quot;I don&#39;t think it&#39;s fair on our part to expect the Prime Minister to deal with these issues. It&#39;s for the concerned ministries to take up. A considerable amount of time has already lapsed. The sentiments of the Andhra has to be addressed by Chandrababu Naidu, and in these circumstances, unless we support our people, we hear them out and work for it, it does not make sense. So, our leader has made a made the right decision to come out of the government. As per the direction of our party president, we resigned today,&quot; Chowdary said.</p>

<p>Raju said that despite their resignations, the TDP is continuing as a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).</p>

<p>&quot;The issue of Special Category Status should have been addressed by the Centre a long time ago,&quot; Gajapathi Raju said.</p>

<p>He said that the Centre was viewing the Andhra people as &#39;residue material&#39;.</p>

<p>&quot;From Andhra Pradesh, we have now become residue state of Andhra Pradesh. The residue is the problem and there are certain commitments that were given by the national parties at that particular time and everyone in Andhra Pradesh wants that to be implemented,&quot; Raju said.</p>

<p>Both the TDP leaders thanked Prime Minister Modi for the &quot;cooperation extended by him&quot; during their tenure.&nbsp;</p>


Two TDP ministers quit Modi's cabinet Thursday over the Andhra special status row

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday told the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) ministers who resigned from the Union Cabinet that he is with Andhra Pradesh. This was informed by YS Chowdary at a press conference in presence of Ashok Gajapathi Raju. Union Aviation Minister Raju and Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences YS Chowdary submitted their resignations to Prime Minister Modi on Thursday evening amid the ongoing TDP-BJP tussle over the special status for Andhra Pradesh. They resigned on the directions of TDP chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. "Prime Minister Modi received us cordially and said that whatever delay has happened, but we will work towards it. The Prime Minister said clearly that 'I am with Andhra Pradesh and I will serve people of the state'," Chowdary told reporters. Replying a question about what was the way forward, Chowdary said, "We have to ensure whatever commitments and assurances given in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act as well as the promises made by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on the floor of the Rajya Sabha are fulfilled." He said that since they have resigned from the council of ministers so they will have more freedom in the parliament to pursue the issues. While answering another question, Chowdary said it was not fair to expect Prime Minister Modi to deal with these issues. "I don't think it's fair on our part to expect the Prime Minister to deal with these issues. It's for the concerned ministries to take up. A considerable amount of time has already lapsed. The sentiments of the Andhra has to be addressed by Chandrababu Naidu, and in these circumstances, unless we support our people, we hear them out and work for it, it does not make sense. So, our leader has made a made the right decision to come out of the government. As per the direction of our party president, we resigned today," Chowdary said. Raju said that despite their resignations, the TDP is continuing as a part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). "The issue of Special Category Status should have been addressed by the Centre a long time ago," Gajapathi Raju said. He said that the Centre was viewing the Andhra people as 'residue material'. "From Andhra Pradesh, we have now become residue state of Andhra Pradesh. The residue is the problem and there are certain commitments that were given by the national parties at that particular time and everyone in Andhra Pradesh wants that to be implemented," Raju said. Both the TDP leaders thanked Prime Minister Modi for the "cooperation extended by him" during their tenure.

Modi tells TDP ministers, 'I am with Andhra'

<p>Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for being quiet on the multi-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam.</p>

<p>Rahul, who returned from Italy yesterday, took to his Twitter handle, saying &ldquo;ek Nirav Modi hai, dusra Modi nirav hai&rdquo;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The case is related to the over Rs 13,600 crore PNB fraud by diamond jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, owner of Gitanjali gems.</p>

<p>Congress MPs along with party president staged a protest against the PNB scam near Mahatma Gandhi statue in Parliament today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The party even raised the issue inside Parliament during the second half of Budget Session leading to repeated adjournments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon after members disrupted the House over the scam.</p>

<p>Rajay Sabha adjourned too was adjourned for the day following ruckus over the fraud.</p>

<p>The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had earlier issued summons to the duo asking them to appear before the central agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Modi, his family, and Choksi left the country in early January, much before the CBI received a complaint from the PNB.</p>


Rahul took to Twitter to take a dig at PM Modi

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for being quiet on the multi-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam. Rahul, who returned from Italy yesterday, took to his Twitter handle, saying “ek Nirav Modi hai, dusra Modi nirav hai”. The case is related to the over Rs 13,600 crore PNB fraud by diamond jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi, owner of Gitanjali gems. Congress MPs along with party president staged a protest against the PNB scam near Mahatma Gandhi statue in Parliament today. The party even raised the issue inside Parliament during the second half of Budget Session leading to repeated adjournments. Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon after members disrupted the House over the scam. Rajay Sabha adjourned too was adjourned for the day following ruckus over the fraud. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had earlier issued summons to the duo asking them to appear before the central agency. However, Modi, his family, and Choksi left the country in early January, much before the CBI received a complaint from the PNB.

PNB scam: Rahul Gandhi questions PM Modi's silence, says 'ek Nirav Modi Hai, dusra Modi nirav hai'

<p>Now that the brouhaha is over, and we have seen the back of three quick-succession foreign dignitaries &ndash; Justin Trudeau&rsquo;s seven-day jaunt through India, King Abdullah&rsquo;s three-day sojourn, followed by a low key &ldquo;India&rsquo;s look East visit&rdquo; by the Vietnamese Premier. Delhi definitely seems to be the flavour of the day!</p>

<p>A new dimension has been added to diplomatic greetings &ndash; effusiveness and tightness of the jhappi-pappi (hugs and greetings) dictates the importance of the dignitary, rather than the level of courtesy extended during arrival dignitary. Jhappi-pappi, even when clearly the other person is cringing (in western culture such familiarity borders on transgression of personal space) is the order of the day. An arm&#39;s length handshake and a hello will do &ndash; thank you! Trudeau&rsquo;s reception did not even merit a junior minister of state, leave aside the EAM &ndash; nor, to my knowledge was there any jhappi-pappi; so, there you have it. King Abdullah was given a major bear hug, indicating his importance, while the diminutive Vietnamese Premier merited only a handshake.</p>

<p>So, what exactly do we read out of the visit of the Jordanian King? Visits by the heads of state and premiers of countries are not trifling matters and are meant to promote national interests, with an exchange of far-ranging and important treaties. But once in a while such visits could land up promoting personal interests of a powerful leader, under the dictum &quot;L&#39;&Eacute;tat, c&#39;est moi&quot; (I am the State, and State is I) &ndash; a distinct possibility in a one-man state, like what we are witnessing in China, and certainly a dangerous trend. Is India on the same path?</p>

<p>One is confused as to what importance to accord to the Kings visit &ndash; while a well-meaning person, he is a lightweight in Middle East affairs, holds limited influence to support India in the OIC, and has little say over the Palestine-Israeli equation. Indeed the territorial and jurisdictional influence of the Hashemite is perhaps the lowest in history; West Bank was ceded to the Palestinians, and Jerusalem and its holy sites of the Jews, Christians and Muslims, were usurped by Israel. Thus, Jordan&rsquo;s support hardly furthers India&rsquo;s national interests. Perhaps, visits by King Salman of Saudi Arabia, President Sisi of Egypt, or President Erdogan of Turkey, would have been more meaningful. The only other major player we managed to pull in, was President Rouhani of Iran. On the contrary, Canada is a permanent member of the NSG and could have helped us in nuclear fuel supply situation; besides, India has a number of issues relating to Khalistani separatists, and issues of visas to Indian retired official etc. These were far more important.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So why sign eleven agreements with Jordan, that too insignificant ones on defence cooperation, cultural, economic and miscellaneous matters. None of these will have a major impact either way, for India or for Jordan. Jordan hardly has a standing Defence Force (just 111,000 personnel, the equivalent of one corps of our army), with a total budget of some USD 2.5 billion dollars. The &#39;Defence Agreement&#39; is meaningless, and all the other ten would ordinarily be concluded at the foreign secretary level, or at the most with the EAM. So what exactly was the purpose of the visit?&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was interesting, therefore, to see acrobatic somersaults and chameleonic deftness on the issue of Islam and terrorism. Prime Minister Modi who was hesitant to even don the Muslim skull cap (Taqiyah) when felicitated by a Maulana in 2011, was now pontificating on values of Islam and that fight against terror is not against Muslims. Be that as it may, it becomes clear that politicians can adopt any strategy and go to any length for garnering political mileage. One good thing is, that he has now committed publicly, that India&rsquo;s progress cannot and must not exclude a major element of the population. King Abdullah&rsquo;s visit, his speech (and of the PM) at the Islamic centre to members of the Muslim community, was (to my mind) meant to establish a bridge with the community through a Muslim plenipotentiary; a bridge the PM needs to desperately establish before the 2019 general elections.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The invitation was obviously not for India to get a foothold in Palestinian-Israeli affairs since far too many leaders have burnt their fingers trying to resolve this vexed question. So, other probabilities were; one, to garner support for India&rsquo;s bid for a UN seat; and two, buttress the PM&#39;s bid for a Noble Prize as a statesman of repute. Latter may seem outlandish, but not long ago, while meeting some diplomats, I asked how the outside world viewed NaMo, despite our internal travails, and his silence on these grave matters. The diplomats&rsquo; view was revealing; &ldquo;Modi has an agenda, and a focus on being recognized in history as a modern-day Gandhi and maker of the new India &ndash; he is ambitious and clever and will go to any ends to achieve his aims&rdquo;.</p>

<p>This seems to fit since King Abdullah is known to be leading voice on modernisation and de-radicalisation in Islam. It coincides with NaMo&rsquo;s often-repeated theme of terrorism and radicalism being the biggest challenges faced by the world today. It sort of helped by media announcing that King Abdullah II was a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) &ndash; which he is not &ndash; and that he is also custodian of the holy sites in Mecca-Medina and Jerusalem - which again he is not, since 1925 and 1967 respectively, except perhaps in name for the Jerusalem sites.</p>

<p>Amusing to see our media&rsquo;s skewed interpretation of history, in averring the direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This is far from the truth and seems to be for domestic Muslim consumption. From my knowledge of Islamic history, while both Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and King Abdulah II were from the Bannu Hashem clan of the Quraysh tribe, like our gotra system under a Khap (tribe), that is the limit of the association. The King is a Sunni, whereas lineal descendant is claimed by the Shia&rsquo;s, followers of Imam Hussein (the Prophets grandson). Abdullah II rightly traces his lineage as a Sharif (caretaker of the holy sites) through unbroken succession from 1101 to 1925 but is technically not a descendant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had three sons, but all died in childhood. His lineage passed on through his daughter, Fatima, married to Ali-bin Abu Talib (Prophets first cousin and son-in-law by marriage). Ali and Fatima&rsquo;s two sons, Hassan (the elder child) and Hussein (the younger child) were martyred along with his entire family at the battle of Karbala. What is historically known as the lineal descendants of the Prophet, if existing, are only through this lineage.</p>

<p>What the future holds for India&rsquo;s diplomatic foray into the Mid-East, through this subtle entry, remains to be seen. But, one thing is certain, PM Modi is casting his net wide. Now whether this is in pursuit of national interests or his own, only time will tell.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


King Abdullah of Jordan is known to be leading voice on modernisation and de-radicalisation in Islam, which coincides with NaMo’s often-repeated theme of terrorism and radicalism being the biggest challenges faced by the world today.

Now that the brouhaha is over, and we have seen the back of three quick-succession foreign dignitaries – Justin Trudeau’s seven-day jaunt through India, King Abdullah’s three-day sojourn, followed by a low key “India’s look East visit” by the Vietnamese Premier. Delhi definitely seems to be the flavour of the day! A new dimension has been added to diplomatic greetings – effusiveness and tightness of the jhappi-pappi (hugs and greetings) dictates the importance of the dignitary, rather than the level of courtesy extended during arrival dignitary. Jhappi-pappi, even when clearly the other person is cringing (in western culture such familiarity borders on transgression of personal space) is the order of the day. An arm's length handshake and a hello will do – thank you! Trudeau’s reception did not even merit a junior minister of state, leave aside the EAM – nor, to my knowledge was there any jhappi-pappi; so, there you have it. King Abdullah was given a major bear hug, indicating his importance, while the diminutive Vietnamese Premier merited only a handshake. So, what exactly do we read out of the visit of the Jordanian King? Visits by the heads of state and premiers of countries are not trifling matters and are meant to promote national interests, with an exchange of far-ranging and important treaties. But once in a while such visits could land up promoting personal interests of a powerful leader, under the dictum "L'État, c'est moi" (I am the State, and State is I) – a distinct possibility in a one-man state, like what we are witnessing in China, and certainly a dangerous trend. Is India on the same path? One is confused as to what importance to accord to the Kings visit – while a well-meaning person, he is a lightweight in Middle East affairs, holds limited influence to support India in the OIC, and has little say over the Palestine-Israeli equation. Indeed the territorial and jurisdictional influence of the Hashemite is perhaps the lowest in history; West Bank was ceded to the Palestinians, and Jerusalem and its holy sites of the Jews, Christians and Muslims, were usurped by Israel. Thus, Jordan’s support hardly furthers India’s national interests. Perhaps, visits by King Salman of Saudi Arabia, President Sisi of Egypt, or President Erdogan of Turkey, would have been more meaningful. The only other major player we managed to pull in, was President Rouhani of Iran. On the contrary, Canada is a permanent member of the NSG and could have helped us in nuclear fuel supply situation; besides, India has a number of issues relating to Khalistani separatists, and issues of visas to Indian retired official etc. These were far more important. So why sign eleven agreements with Jordan, that too insignificant ones on defence cooperation, cultural, economic and miscellaneous matters. None of these will have a major impact either way, for India or for Jordan. Jordan hardly has a standing Defence Force (just 111,000 personnel, the equivalent of one corps of our army), with a total budget of some USD 2.5 billion dollars. The 'Defence Agreement' is meaningless, and all the other ten would ordinarily be concluded at the foreign secretary level, or at the most with the EAM. So what exactly was the purpose of the visit? It was interesting, therefore, to see acrobatic somersaults and chameleonic deftness on the issue of Islam and terrorism. Prime Minister Modi who was hesitant to even don the Muslim skull cap (Taqiyah) when felicitated by a Maulana in 2011, was now pontificating on values of Islam and that fight against terror is not against Muslims. Be that as it may, it becomes clear that politicians can adopt any strategy and go to any length for garnering political mileage. One good thing is, that he has now committed publicly, that India’s progress cannot and must not exclude a major element of the population. King Abdullah’s visit, his speech (and of the PM) at the Islamic centre to members of the Muslim community, was (to my mind) meant to establish a bridge with the community through a Muslim plenipotentiary; a bridge the PM needs to desperately establish before the 2019 general elections. The invitation was obviously not for India to get a foothold in Palestinian-Israeli affairs since far too many leaders have burnt their fingers trying to resolve this vexed question. So, other probabilities were; one, to garner support for India’s bid for a UN seat; and two, buttress the PM's bid for a Noble Prize as a statesman of repute. Latter may seem outlandish, but not long ago, while meeting some diplomats, I asked how the outside world viewed NaMo, despite our internal travails, and his silence on these grave matters. The diplomats’ view was revealing; “Modi has an agenda, and a focus on being recognized in history as a modern-day Gandhi and maker of the new India – he is ambitious and clever and will go to any ends to achieve his aims”. This seems to fit since King Abdullah is known to be leading voice on modernisation and de-radicalisation in Islam. It coincides with NaMo’s often-repeated theme of terrorism and radicalism being the biggest challenges faced by the world today. It sort of helped by media announcing that King Abdullah II was a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – which he is not – and that he is also custodian of the holy sites in Mecca-Medina and Jerusalem - which again he is not, since 1925 and 1967 respectively, except perhaps in name for the Jerusalem sites. Amusing to see our media’s skewed interpretation of history, in averring the direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This is far from the truth and seems to be for domestic Muslim consumption. From my knowledge of Islamic history, while both Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and King Abdulah II were from the Bannu Hashem clan of the Quraysh tribe, like our gotra system under a Khap (tribe), that is the limit of the association. The King is a Sunni, whereas lineal descendant is claimed by the Shia’s, followers of Imam Hussein (the Prophets grandson). Abdullah II rightly traces his lineage as a Sharif (caretaker of the holy sites) through unbroken succession from 1101 to 1925 but is technically not a descendant. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had three sons, but all died in childhood. His lineage passed on through his daughter, Fatima, married to Ali-bin Abu Talib (Prophets first cousin and son-in-law by marriage). Ali and Fatima’s two sons, Hassan (the elder child) and Hussein (the younger child) were martyred along with his entire family at the battle of Karbala. What is historically known as the lineal descendants of the Prophet, if existing, are only through this lineage. What the future holds for India’s diplomatic foray into the Mid-East, through this subtle entry, remains to be seen. But, one thing is certain, PM Modi is casting his net wide. Now whether this is in pursuit of national interests or his own, only time will tell. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Why Narendra Modi embraced King Abdullah and ignored PM Trudeau

<p>As the airstair on Pakistan One slowly unraveled at Palam Airport in New Delhi on the 26th of May 2014, many naively hoped that this was the dawn of a new chapter in the historically tense Indo-Pak relationship. Pakistan One was carrying the Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif as he landed in Delhi to attend his counterpart&rsquo;s inauguration. The coveted handshake was beamed all over the world as those with a keen eye on South Asian affairs hoped that this BJP Prime Minister would bring the same vivacity to Indo-Pak relations that Atal Behari Vajpayee did. Understandably, Modi enjoyed a tainted reputation in Pakistan but if Sharif was willing to overlook it so were many others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The presence of the other South Asian leaders was dwarfed by the Nawaz-Modi dynamic but as long as their union meant prosperity for their region, they did not mind. Fast forward four years and Indo-Pak relations are at their lowest ebb in perhaps a decade with cross-border attacks, the Jadhav case and lack of progress on terror cases causing discontent on both sides.</p>

<p>What many don&rsquo;t realise are the spillover effects of the enmity between the two warring neighbours. Due to the friction between Pakistan and India, all of South Asia has to suffer. Despite being home to a whopping 1.7 billion (almost one-fourth of the global population) and with an average economic growth per annum of 7 per cent, South Asia is perhaps the least socio-economically integrated region in the world. This fact is alarming in light of the fact that the region enjoys shared history, culture and geography and political systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The World Bank reports that Intra-regional trade accounts for only 5 per cent of South Asia&rsquo;s total trade, compared to 25 per cent in ASEAN republics and intra-regional investment is smaller than 1 per cent of overall investment. An interesting tidbit on the situation is the fact that it costs India 20 per cent less to trade with Brazil over 9000 miles away than it does with to trade with Pakistan just next door due to red tape. The South Asian region has one of the highest working-age populations and a fertile environment for entrepreneurship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite this array of possible opportunities, this potential remains untapped. Due to this hitherto untapped potential the region is home to 40 per cent of the world&rsquo;s poor with high poverty and abysmal statistics for school enrolment and access to healthcare and sanitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All of these problems can be undone with greater regional integration but this seems a mammoth task due to a number of reasons. Chief amongst these are the historical political tensions, security issues and cross-border conflict as well as the relative asymmetry in the size of South Asian countries. Another hindrance is the high trade costs, regulatory impediments and lack of infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Past experiences of efforts to foster regional cooperation have been met with hostility from skeptics (often right-wing) and those who oppose it due to sheer misinformation.&nbsp; Though risky, efforts at regional integration can pay high dividends and prove exceptionally rewarding. There are a number of reasons for doing so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Let us look at the US-Mexico model for inspiration. Despite the underlying animosity, much of which came to the fore during President Trump&rsquo;s run for office both countries are major trading partners with the total money value of all commodities traded coming up to $580 billion dollars. This gives both countries a stake in the other and keeps a healthy relationship going despite any figurative or actual walls that might be built.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, despite being arch-rivals, the United States and China enjoy a total two-way trade of up to $578 billion. Even in the Middle East, despite a total diplomatic boycott, the Emirates still get 45 per cent of its energy needs from the state of Qatar. There is certainly a leaf to be taken out of the books of these countries as far as South Asian countries are concerned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the two largest economies in the region, Pakistan and India, economic ties are virtually non-existent. This vacuum gives way for extremist narratives to dominate mainstream discourse; the establishment on the Pakistani side and the socio-political right wing in India. For a stable peer dynamic, it is essential to rise above the extremist rhetoric and give each other a stake in each other&rsquo;s economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not only will this greater communion make Indo-Pak tensions harder to come by but will also open doors for other South Asian countries, such as Afghanistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. Again, as the World Bank reports, trade between India and Pakistan can rise up to $20 billion and Bangladesh can increase trade with India by up to 300 per cent.&nbsp; And one hopes this synergy will lead to greater constructive discourse on forums such as SAARC and also give us a fruitful implementation of treaties such as the SAFTA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The implementation of greater regional cooperation requires a two-fold approach. Firstly, there needs to be a narrative built around this cooperation with greater people-to-people contacts. Secondly, there is the technical aspect of doing away with regulatory impediments and doing away with needless red tape and building the required infrastructure. Policymakers on both sides need to have an informed policy dialogue with an aim of realising the inimitable benefits of increased regional cooperation. Greater prosperity for the region awaits, all we need to do is look past petty biases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


Learning from the examples of US-Mexico and US-China, policymakers in India and Pakistan should rise above the extremist narrative to foster economic relation.

As the airstair on Pakistan One slowly unraveled at Palam Airport in New Delhi on the 26th of May 2014, many naively hoped that this was the dawn of a new chapter in the historically tense Indo-Pak relationship. Pakistan One was carrying the Prime Minister Mian Nawaz Sharif as he landed in Delhi to attend his counterpart’s inauguration. The coveted handshake was beamed all over the world as those with a keen eye on South Asian affairs hoped that this BJP Prime Minister would bring the same vivacity to Indo-Pak relations that Atal Behari Vajpayee did. Understandably, Modi enjoyed a tainted reputation in Pakistan but if Sharif was willing to overlook it so were many others. The presence of the other South Asian leaders was dwarfed by the Nawaz-Modi dynamic but as long as their union meant prosperity for their region, they did not mind. Fast forward four years and Indo-Pak relations are at their lowest ebb in perhaps a decade with cross-border attacks, the Jadhav case and lack of progress on terror cases causing discontent on both sides. What many don’t realise are the spillover effects of the enmity between the two warring neighbours. Due to the friction between Pakistan and India, all of South Asia has to suffer. Despite being home to a whopping 1.7 billion (almost one-fourth of the global population) and with an average economic growth per annum of 7 per cent, South Asia is perhaps the least socio-economically integrated region in the world. This fact is alarming in light of the fact that the region enjoys shared history, culture and geography and political systems. The World Bank reports that Intra-regional trade accounts for only 5 per cent of South Asia’s total trade, compared to 25 per cent in ASEAN republics and intra-regional investment is smaller than 1 per cent of overall investment. An interesting tidbit on the situation is the fact that it costs India 20 per cent less to trade with Brazil over 9000 miles away than it does with to trade with Pakistan just next door due to red tape. The South Asian region has one of the highest working-age populations and a fertile environment for entrepreneurship. Despite this array of possible opportunities, this potential remains untapped. Due to this hitherto untapped potential the region is home to 40 per cent of the world’s poor with high poverty and abysmal statistics for school enrolment and access to healthcare and sanitation. All of these problems can be undone with greater regional integration but this seems a mammoth task due to a number of reasons. Chief amongst these are the historical political tensions, security issues and cross-border conflict as well as the relative asymmetry in the size of South Asian countries. Another hindrance is the high trade costs, regulatory impediments and lack of infrastructure. Past experiences of efforts to foster regional cooperation have been met with hostility from skeptics (often right-wing) and those who oppose it due to sheer misinformation. Though risky, efforts at regional integration can pay high dividends and prove exceptionally rewarding. There are a number of reasons for doing so. Let us look at the US-Mexico model for inspiration. Despite the underlying animosity, much of which came to the fore during President Trump’s run for office both countries are major trading partners with the total money value of all commodities traded coming up to $580 billion dollars. This gives both countries a stake in the other and keeps a healthy relationship going despite any figurative or actual walls that might be built. Similarly, despite being arch-rivals, the United States and China enjoy a total two-way trade of up to $578 billion. Even in the Middle East, despite a total diplomatic boycott, the Emirates still get 45 per cent of its energy needs from the state of Qatar. There is certainly a leaf to be taken out of the books of these countries as far as South Asian countries are concerned. For the two largest economies in the region, Pakistan and India, economic ties are virtually non-existent. This vacuum gives way for extremist narratives to dominate mainstream discourse; the establishment on the Pakistani side and the socio-political right wing in India. For a stable peer dynamic, it is essential to rise above the extremist rhetoric and give each other a stake in each other’s economy. Not only will this greater communion make Indo-Pak tensions harder to come by but will also open doors for other South Asian countries, such as Afghanistan, Nepal and Bangladesh. Again, as the World Bank reports, trade between India and Pakistan can rise up to $20 billion and Bangladesh can increase trade with India by up to 300 per cent. And one hopes this synergy will lead to greater constructive discourse on forums such as SAARC and also give us a fruitful implementation of treaties such as the SAFTA. The implementation of greater regional cooperation requires a two-fold approach. Firstly, there needs to be a narrative built around this cooperation with greater people-to-people contacts. Secondly, there is the technical aspect of doing away with regulatory impediments and doing away with needless red tape and building the required infrastructure. Policymakers on both sides need to have an informed policy dialogue with an aim of realising the inimitable benefits of increased regional cooperation. Greater prosperity for the region awaits, all we need to do is look past petty biases. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: India and Pakistan can bond over economic issues to bypass enmity

<p>Speaking at the &quot;Youth Power Convention&quot; event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he always tries to meet more and more youth so that he can work according to their hopes and aspirations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said &quot; There is always something to learn from the conversations with young generation. Therefore, I always try to meet youth more and more, to talk to them, to listen to their experiences and to work according to their hopes &amp; aspirations&quot;.</p>

<p>He&nbsp;also talked about Atal Innovation Mission, introduced by the government, to convert&nbsp;ideas of school students into innovation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Innovation is the base of better future. To convert ideas of school students into innovation, government has introduced Atal Innovation Mission. More than 2,400 Atal Tinkering Labs have been approved across the country: PM Modi at &quot;Youth Power&quot; convention <a href="https://t.co/l8AyxsiBQe">pic.twitter.com/l8AyxsiBQe</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/970183132547760128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">&quot;Vidyarthi Devo Bhava is not only yours, but our mantra as well. In fact, with your permission, I would like to add in it, &quot;Yuva Shakti Devo Bhava&quot;: PM Modi at &quot;Youth Power&quot; convention <a href="https://t.co/gjnaVjwWhP">pic.twitter.com/gjnaVjwWhP</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/970184316742393856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking at the event he said a huge change was seen for the first time when the country opened their television sets early in the morning to know the mandate of North- East.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, &quot;A day after Holi, the results of North-east elections again created an environment of festival. You must think why I am discussing it here. I&#39;m not seeing it as victory and defeat of political parties, significant is that entire nation was involved in North-east&#39;s celebrations&quot; &quot;It happened for the first time that people in other states of the country opened their television set early morning to know the mandate of North-East public. This is a huge change&quot;.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Speaking at Yuva Power Convention PM Modi said 'I always try to meet youth more and more, to talk to them, to listen to their experiences and to work according to their hopes & aspirations'

Speaking at the "Youth Power Convention" event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he always tries to meet more and more youth so that he can work according to their hopes and aspirations. He said " There is always something to learn from the conversations with young generation. Therefore, I always try to meet youth more and more, to talk to them, to listen to their experiences and to work according to their hopes & aspirations". He also talked about Atal Innovation Mission, introduced by the government, to convert ideas of school students into innovation. Innovation is the base of better future. To convert ideas of school students into innovation, government has introduced Atal Innovation Mission. More than 2,400 Atal Tinkering Labs have been approved across the country: PM Modi at "Youth Power" convention pic.twitter.com/l8AyxsiBQe — ANI (@ANI) March 4, 2018 × "Vidyarthi Devo Bhava is not only yours, but our mantra as well. In fact, with your permission, I would like to add in it, "Yuva Shakti Devo Bhava": PM Modi at "Youth Power" convention pic.twitter.com/gjnaVjwWhP — ANI (@ANI) March 4, 2018 × Speaking at the event he said a huge change was seen for the first time when the country opened their television sets early in the morning to know the mandate of North- East. He said, "A day after Holi, the results of North-east elections again created an environment of festival. You must think why I am discussing it here. I'm not seeing it as victory and defeat of political parties, significant is that entire nation was involved in North-east's celebrations" "It happened for the first time that people in other states of the country opened their television set early morning to know the mandate of North-East public. This is a huge change".

Always try to work according to hopes and aspirations of youth: PM Modi

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi mocked Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today while addressing a farmer&#39;s rally at Karnataka&#39;s Davanagere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;It is not Siddaramaih&#39;s government but &#39;Seedha Rupaiyya&#39; governance,&quot; PM Modi exclaimed saying that the government requires money for everything, then only things get done. &quot;It is a money first government,&quot; the PM noted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Some people believe that there is Siddaramaiah governance in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a>, but in reality, it is &#39;Seedha Rupaiyya&#39; governance. Har cheej mein &#39;Seedha Rupaiyya&#39; hota hai, tabhi kaam hota hai. Ye &#39;Seedha Rupaiyya&#39; jaana chahiye: PM Modi in Davanagere <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/9XHxIPpb5B">pic.twitter.com/9XHxIPpb5B</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/968448218152366080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Prime Minister said that there is severe public anger against Congress&#39; rule in Karnataka, &quot;people have decided the government will go,&quot; he noted.</p>

<p>&quot;People have realised that the root cause of all ills is the Congress culture,&quot; the PM said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One family ruled the country for 48 years &amp; one tea seller ruled for 48 months. Born in rich houses, they could not care for farmers in 48 years. But in 48 months, we multiplied Minimum Support Price (MSP) by 1 &amp; half for the farmers: PM Modi <a href="https://t.co/i77xT1PapX">pic.twitter.com/i77xT1PapX</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/968446606872686592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Prime Minister talked about the political dynasty of the Gandhi family and said that the family ruled the country for 48 years and &quot;could not care for the farmers&#39; plight&quot;.</p>

<p>&quot;One tea seller ruled for 48 months and we multiplied Minimum Support Price (MSP) by one and a half for the farmers,&quot; noted PM Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Karnataka Government is certain to be defeated. Their misdeeds have made the Government unpopular. Election after election what are the people doing? They are removing Congress. When Congress goes, the harmful Congress culture also goes: PM Narendra Modi in Davanagere <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/bW5YjtLipl">pic.twitter.com/bW5YjtLipl</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/968443441985146880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Prime Minister said that he is certain of Congress&#39; defeat in the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&quot;Their misdeeds have made the government unpopular. Election after election what are the people doing? They are removing Congress. When Congress goes, the harmful Congress culture will also go,&quot; noted PM Modi.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Prime Minister said that there is severe public anger against Congress' rule in Karnataka

Prime Minister Narendra Modi mocked Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today while addressing a farmer's rally at Karnataka's Davanagere. "It is not Siddaramaih's government but 'Seedha Rupaiyya' governance," PM Modi exclaimed saying that the government requires money for everything, then only things get done. "It is a money first government," the PM noted. Some people believe that there is Siddaramaiah governance in #Karnataka, but in reality, it is 'Seedha Rupaiyya' governance. Har cheej mein 'Seedha Rupaiyya' hota hai, tabhi kaam hota hai. Ye 'Seedha Rupaiyya' jaana chahiye: PM Modi in Davanagere #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/9XHxIPpb5B — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2018 × The Prime Minister said that there is severe public anger against Congress' rule in Karnataka, "people have decided the government will go," he noted. "People have realised that the root cause of all ills is the Congress culture," the PM said. One family ruled the country for 48 years & one tea seller ruled for 48 months. Born in rich houses, they could not care for farmers in 48 years. But in 48 months, we multiplied Minimum Support Price (MSP) by 1 & half for the farmers: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/i77xT1PapX — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2018 × The Prime Minister talked about the political dynasty of the Gandhi family and said that the family ruled the country for 48 years and "could not care for the farmers' plight". "One tea seller ruled for 48 months and we multiplied Minimum Support Price (MSP) by one and a half for the farmers," noted PM Narendra Modi. Karnataka Government is certain to be defeated. Their misdeeds have made the Government unpopular. Election after election what are the people doing? They are removing Congress. When Congress goes, the harmful Congress culture also goes: PM Narendra Modi in Davanagere #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/bW5YjtLipl — ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2018 × The Prime Minister said that he is certain of Congress' defeat in the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections. "Their misdeeds have made the government unpopular. Election after election what are the people doing? They are removing Congress. When Congress goes, the harmful Congress culture will also go," noted PM Modi.

Siddaramaiah runs 'money first' government: PM Modi at farmers' rally in Karnataka

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