Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the coronavirus vaccine could be ready for India within weeks and healthcare warriors and the elderly will receive the first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine while reiterating that India has ‘managed to keep the death rate low’.

“Our scientists are very confident of succeeding in their endeavour of making COVID vaccine. The world is keeping a watch on the cheapest &amp; safe vaccine. That is why the world is watching India,” Modi said.

“Experts believe that COVID vaccine will be ready in the next few weeks. As soon as scientists give a green signal, vaccination will start in India. Healthcare, frontline workers &amp; elderly person suffering from serious diseases will be given priority in vaccination,” the PM added.

PM Modi said the storage logistics of the coronavirus vaccine is being looked into. Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine, which is 95 per cent effective in preventing the disease, has a super-cold storage requirement.

"Nearly eight vaccines are on other stages of trial with their manufacturing assured in India. Three coronavirus vaccines from India are at different stages. Experts think that the vaccine isn't too far away. In the next few weeks, a coronavirus vaccine could be ready for India," PM Narendra Modi said.

The virtual meeting began at 10.45 am, in which Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, apart from Health Ministry Secretary, were also present.

COVID-19 vaccine will be first given to about 1 crore health workers from both the public and private sectors, and then to about 2 crore frontline workers, the Union Health Ministry said in its presentation at the all-party meet on Friday, sources said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the coronavirus vaccine could be ready for India within weeks and healthcare warriors and the elderly will receive the first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine while reiterating that India has ‘managed to keep the death rate low’.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the coronavirus vaccine could be ready for India within weeks and healthcare warriors and the elderly will receive the first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine while reiterating that India has ‘managed to keep the death rate low’. “Our scientists are very confident of succeeding in their endeavour of making COVID vaccine. The world is keeping a watch on the cheapest & safe vaccine. That is why the world is watching India,” Modi said. “Experts believe that COVID vaccine will be ready in the next few weeks. As soon as scientists give a green signal, vaccination will start in India. Healthcare, frontline workers & elderly person suffering from serious diseases will be given priority in vaccination,” the PM added. PM Modi said the storage logistics of the coronavirus vaccine is being looked into. Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine, which is 95 per cent effective in preventing the disease, has a super-cold storage requirement. "Nearly eight vaccines are on other stages of trial with their manufacturing assured in India. Three coronavirus vaccines from India are at different stages. Experts think that the vaccine isn't too far away. In the next few weeks, a coronavirus vaccine could be ready for India," PM Narendra Modi said. The virtual meeting began at 10.45 am, in which Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, apart from Health Ministry Secretary, were also present. COVID-19 vaccine will be first given to about 1 crore health workers from both the public and private sectors, and then to about 2 crore frontline workers, the Union Health Ministry said in its presentation at the all-party meet on Friday, sources said. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 vaccine could be ready for India in a few weeks: PM Modi at all party meet

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with various vaccine developers like the Gennova Biopharma and Biological E Ltd and Dr. Reddy's laboratories Ltd. This comes after the PM visited three Biotechnology firms.

News Alert: Indian PM Modi holds virtual meet with 3 biotechnology firms

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appreciated the efforts by scientists in Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Biological E Ltd and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd to come out with a vaccine solution to tackle COVID-19.&nbsp;

During his virtual meetings with 3 teams- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Pune, Biological E Ltd, Hyderabad and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd, Hyderabad- that are working on developing and manufacturing coronavirus vaccine, the Prime Minister discussed the potential of various platforms for COVID-19 vaccine development.

According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), PM Modi also suggested that the companies should take extra efforts to inform the general public in simple language about the vaccine and related matters such as its efficacy. He also asked the companies to come out with their suggestions and ideas regarding the regulatory processes and related matters.

Matters relating to logistics, transport, cold chain in respect of delivering the vaccines were also discussed at the meetings. PMO said that all the vaccine candidates discussed are at different stages of trials and detailed data and results are expected early next year onwards.

The Prime Minister advised all the departments concerned to engage with the manufacturers and seek to resolve matters so that the efforts by these companies bear fruit in order to serve the needs of the country and the entire world. On Saturday, Prime Minister Modi had visited the Serum Institute of India in Pune as part of efforts to get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges, and roadmap in India's endeavour to vaccinate its citizens against COVID-19.

He had also visited Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad and Bharat Biotech facility at Hyderabad on Saturday as part of his three-city visit to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process against COVID-19. India's coronavirus tally breached the 94-lakh mark after 38,772 new infections reported in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's data on Monday.

The overall coronavirus cases reached 94,31,692 including 4,46,952 active cases and 88,47,600 recoveries. With 443 new deaths, the cumulative toll mounted to 1,37,139.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appreciated the efforts by scientists in Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Biological E Ltd and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd to come out with a vaccine solution to tackle COVID-19.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appreciated the efforts by scientists in Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Biological E Ltd and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd to come out with a vaccine solution to tackle COVID-19. During his virtual meetings with 3 teams- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, Pune, Biological E Ltd, Hyderabad and Dr Reddys Laboratories Ltd, Hyderabad- that are working on developing and manufacturing coronavirus vaccine, the Prime Minister discussed the potential of various platforms for COVID-19 vaccine development. According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), PM Modi also suggested that the companies should take extra efforts to inform the general public in simple language about the vaccine and related matters such as its efficacy. He also asked the companies to come out with their suggestions and ideas regarding the regulatory processes and related matters. Matters relating to logistics, transport, cold chain in respect of delivering the vaccines were also discussed at the meetings. PMO said that all the vaccine candidates discussed are at different stages of trials and detailed data and results are expected early next year onwards. The Prime Minister advised all the departments concerned to engage with the manufacturers and seek to resolve matters so that the efforts by these companies bear fruit in order to serve the needs of the country and the entire world. On Saturday, Prime Minister Modi had visited the Serum Institute of India in Pune as part of efforts to get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges, and roadmap in India's endeavour to vaccinate its citizens against COVID-19. He had also visited Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad and Bharat Biotech facility at Hyderabad on Saturday as part of his three-city visit to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process against COVID-19. India's coronavirus tally breached the 94-lakh mark after 38,772 new infections reported in the last 24 hours, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's data on Monday. The overall coronavirus cases reached 94,31,692 including 4,46,952 active cases and 88,47,600 recoveries. With 443 new deaths, the cumulative toll mounted to 1,37,139.

PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked a pretty comprehensive tri city tour of the COVID facilities in the country that are involved in the manufacturing & development of the COVID-19 vaccine.

PM Modi visits India's top 3 vaccine hubs

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the new agriculture reforms have not only freed peasants from various shackles but have also bestowed on them new rights and opportunities.

He said this while addressing his monthly Mann Ki Baat radio programme, even as a large section of farmers have been protesting against the new farm laws in the national capital.

Modi said the recent agriculture reforms have begun mitigating the troubles of farmers in a short span of time as he cited the example of a Maharashtra farmer who used the provisions of the new laws to get the money promised to him by a trader.

His remarks come at a time when thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, have dug in their heels at Delhi's border points and hundreds have gathered at the city's Burari ground, united in their determination to hold protests against the new farm laws.

"Since ages, these demands of farmers which at one point of time or the other all political parties had promised to them, have now been fulfilled. After deep deliberations, Parliament recently passed farm reform laws," he said.

"These reforms have not only freed the farmers from various shackles, but have also given them new rights and opportunities. In such a short span of time, these rights have started reducing the problems of farmers," he said.

In his radio broadcast, Modi touched upon various other topics ranging from the idol of goddess Annapurna, stolen in 1913 from Varanasi, being brought back to India from Canada, to emphasising that educational institutions should harness the strengths and talents of their alumni.

Remembering Guru Nanak Dev, whose birth anniversary is on Monday, Modi lauded his noble ideals and added that he considered himself to be fortunate for his involvement in various works related to Sikh gurus and gurudwaras.

He also hailed the opening of the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in November last year as historic.

The prime minister also lauded Gaurav Sharma, the MP for Hamilton West, New Zealand, for taking his oath of office in Sanskrit.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the new agriculture reforms have not only freed peasants from various shackles but have also bestowed on them new rights and opportunities.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the new agriculture reforms have not only freed peasants from various shackles but have also bestowed on them new rights and opportunities. He said this while addressing his monthly Mann Ki Baat radio programme, even as a large section of farmers have been protesting against the new farm laws in the national capital. Modi said the recent agriculture reforms have begun mitigating the troubles of farmers in a short span of time as he cited the example of a Maharashtra farmer who used the provisions of the new laws to get the money promised to him by a trader. His remarks come at a time when thousands of farmers, mostly from Punjab, have dug in their heels at Delhi's border points and hundreds have gathered at the city's Burari ground, united in their determination to hold protests against the new farm laws. "Since ages, these demands of farmers which at one point of time or the other all political parties had promised to them, have now been fulfilled. After deep deliberations, Parliament recently passed farm reform laws," he said. "These reforms have not only freed the farmers from various shackles, but have also given them new rights and opportunities. In such a short span of time, these rights have started reducing the problems of farmers," he said. In his radio broadcast, Modi touched upon various other topics ranging from the idol of goddess Annapurna, stolen in 1913 from Varanasi, being brought back to India from Canada, to emphasising that educational institutions should harness the strengths and talents of their alumni. Remembering Guru Nanak Dev, whose birth anniversary is on Monday, Modi lauded his noble ideals and added that he considered himself to be fortunate for his involvement in various works related to Sikh gurus and gurudwaras. He also hailed the opening of the Kartarpur Sahib corridor in November last year as historic. The prime minister also lauded Gaurav Sharma, the MP for Hamilton West, New Zealand, for taking his oath of office in Sanskrit.

Amid protests, PM Modi backs farm laws in Mann Ki Baat address

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad and got first hand information on ZycoV-D, a Covid19 vaccine candidate.

Indian PM Modi meets scientists at Zydus Cadila Plant in Ahmedabad

PM Modi reached at Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad to review the ongoing preparations for the corona vaccine named as 'Covaxin'.

PM Modi reviews COVID vaccine progress in Hyderabad, Pune and Ahmedabad

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a visit to review the vaccine development in the country. PM Modi will be visiting 3 top vaccine production hubs in three different cities all in a span of a day.

News Alert: Indian PM Modi to visit top 3 drug makers to review vaccine development

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, visited Bharat Biotech, a Hyderabad-based Pharmaceutical company to know about the progress made in the development of indigenous coronavirus vaccine. The visit was part of his inspection of vaccine development in vaccine-hubs of India.

"At the Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad, was briefed about their indigenous Covid vaccine," Modi tweeted.

During his visit, PM Modi congratulated the scientists for the progress they made in the trial so far.

The Prime Minister met with the company officials in a conference hall and deliberated on the progress made in bringing out a vaccine.

Later, he also briefly interacted with a few employees.

Before flying to Hyderabad, PM Modi visited pharma major Zydus-Cadilla's work on vaccine development in Ahmedabad.

After his Hyderabad visit, PM Modi was due to fly to Pune for a visit to Serum Institute of India, the company that will manufacture coronavirus vaccine being developed by Oxford University and Astrazeneca.

(With agency inputs)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, visited Bharat Biotech, a Hyderabad-based Pharmaceutical company to know about the progress made in the development of indigenous coronavirus vaccine.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, visited Bharat Biotech, a Hyderabad-based Pharmaceutical company to know about the progress made in the development of indigenous coronavirus vaccine. The visit was part of his inspection of vaccine development in vaccine-hubs of India. "At the Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad, was briefed about their indigenous Covid vaccine," Modi tweeted. During his visit, PM Modi congratulated the scientists for the progress they made in the trial so far. The Prime Minister met with the company officials in a conference hall and deliberated on the progress made in bringing out a vaccine. Later, he also briefly interacted with a few employees. Before flying to Hyderabad, PM Modi visited pharma major Zydus-Cadilla's work on vaccine development in Ahmedabad. After his Hyderabad visit, PM Modi was due to fly to Pune for a visit to Serum Institute of India, the company that will manufacture coronavirus vaccine being developed by Oxford University and Astrazeneca. (With agency inputs)

Bharat Biotech working with ICMR for speedy progress on vaccine: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D. This visit was the first of his three-city tour to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process in the country. Prime Minister Modi will now fly to Hyderabad to visit the Bharat Biotech facility.

During his visit to the Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, PM Modi interacted with the scientists at the Biotech Park and also greeted a crowd which gathered outside the plant.

The prime minister is now scheduled to visit vaccine maker Bharat Biotech`s facility next. Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin is undergoing phase-3 trials.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-vaccine-making-units-in-ahmedabad-hyderabad-and-pune-346004">PM Modi to visit vaccine making units in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune</a>

Biotech has partnered with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for a country-made COVID-19 vaccine using the virus strain isolated by ICMR`s National Institute of Virology (NIV) based in Pune.

Post Bharat Biotech facility visit, PM Modi will head towards the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune. SII has partnered with global pharma giant AstraZeneca and Oxford University for the vaccine.

The SII is the largest producer of vaccines in the world by volume.

"As India enters a decisive phase of the fight against COVID-19, PM Narendra Modi`s visit to these facilities and discussions with the scientists will help him get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges and roadmap in India`s endeavour to vaccinate its citizens," the Prime Minister`s Office had said on Friday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday concluded his visit to Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad after reviewing the development of COVID-19 vaccine candidate ZyCOV-D. This visit was the first of his three-city tour to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process in the country. Prime Minister Modi will now fly to Hyderabad to visit the Bharat Biotech facility. During his visit to the Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, PM Modi interacted with the scientists at the Biotech Park and also greeted a crowd which gathered outside the plant. The prime minister is now scheduled to visit vaccine maker Bharat Biotech`s facility next. Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin is undergoing phase-3 trials. Also read| PM Modi to visit vaccine making units in Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune Biotech has partnered with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for a country-made COVID-19 vaccine using the virus strain isolated by ICMR`s National Institute of Virology (NIV) based in Pune. Post Bharat Biotech facility visit, PM Modi will head towards the Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune. SII has partnered with global pharma giant AstraZeneca and Oxford University for the vaccine. The SII is the largest producer of vaccines in the world by volume. "As India enters a decisive phase of the fight against COVID-19, PM Narendra Modi`s visit to these facilities and discussions with the scientists will help him get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges and roadmap in India`s endeavour to vaccinate its citizens," the Prime Minister`s Office had said on Friday.

PM Modi concludes Zydus Biotech Park visit, next stop Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad

An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each will be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the wake of cyclone Nivar and heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, the Prime Minister's Office said on Friday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister K Palaniswami.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclonic-storm-nivar-clobbers-south-india-power-supply-disrupted-in-several-cities-345300">Cyclonic storm Nivar clobbers south India; power supply disrupted in several cities</a>

The PMO said the monetary assistance to the next of kin of the deceased and to the injured will be provided from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) and central teams are being sent to the state to assist in the rescue and relief work.

At least three people were killed in Tamil Nadu, over 1,000 trees uprooted and some low-lying areas marooned due to water-logging following heavy rains on Thursday as severe cyclonic storm Nivar made landfall near Puducherry.

In the state, about 2.30 lakh people have been accommodated in relief camps following the cyclone, Chief Minister Palaniswami had said.

"PM @narendramodi spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @EPSTamilNadu and discussed the situation in the wake of the cyclone and heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Central teams are being sent to Tamil Nadu to assist in rescue and relief work," the PMO tweeted.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Thiru <a href="https://twitter.com/EPSTamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EPSTamilNadu</a> and discussed the situation in the wake of the cyclone and heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Central teams are being sent to Tamil Nadu to assist in rescue and relief work. <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOTamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOTamilNadu</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1332352888820162560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"PM @narendramodi expressed condolence on the loss of lives and prayed for a quick recovery of the injured," it said.

An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each would be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to the injured, from the PMNRF, the PMO said.

An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each will be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the wake of cyclone Nivar and heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, the Prime Minister's Office said on Friday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister K Palaniswami.

An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each will be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the wake of cyclone Nivar and heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu, the Prime Minister's Office said on Friday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Chief Minister K Palaniswami. Also see| Cyclonic storm Nivar clobbers south India; power supply disrupted in several cities The PMO said the monetary assistance to the next of kin of the deceased and to the injured will be provided from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) and central teams are being sent to the state to assist in the rescue and relief work. At least three people were killed in Tamil Nadu, over 1,000 trees uprooted and some low-lying areas marooned due to water-logging following heavy rains on Thursday as severe cyclonic storm Nivar made landfall near Puducherry. In the state, about 2.30 lakh people have been accommodated in relief camps following the cyclone, Chief Minister Palaniswami had said. "PM @narendramodi spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @EPSTamilNadu and discussed the situation in the wake of the cyclone and heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Central teams are being sent to Tamil Nadu to assist in rescue and relief work," the PMO tweeted. PM @narendramodi spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Thiru @EPSTamilNadu and discussed the situation in the wake of the cyclone and heavy rainfall in parts of the state. Central teams are being sent to Tamil Nadu to assist in rescue and relief work. @CMOTamilNadu — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 27, 2020 × "PM @narendramodi expressed condolence on the loss of lives and prayed for a quick recovery of the injured," it said. An ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each would be given to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to the injured, from the PMNRF, the PMO said.

Cyclone Nivar: PM Modi speaks with Tamil Nadu CM; kin of deceased to get Rs 2 lakh, injured Rs 50,000

Reports claim India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit The Serum Institute of India on Nov 28. Why is this visit so important for India and the Developing World?

Gravitas: Biggest vaccine stories of the day

In modern India, there cannot be a bigger endorsement than what comes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. So when he, on one fine day, tweeted about a certain book that he was left impressed with, the world, along with India, took notice.

In modern India, there cannot be a bigger endorsement than what comes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. So when he, on one fine day, tweeted about a certain book that he was left impressed with, the world, along with India, took notice. For authors Harsh Madhusudan and Rajeev Mantri, a recommendation from PM Modi served as a validation of their hard work and the distinct political philosophy they harbour for modern India. Their book 'A New Idea of India: Individual Rights in a Civilisational State' is an essay on what India has been lacking in past few decades, and what it needs to do come on par with the more developed nations of the world. The authors, through their book, give their audience an essential reminder that India is a civilisational State and not just a post-colonial entity. PM Modi said in a tweet that he had read the book and recommended it to his followers. He wrote, “Over the past few days, I have been reading, ‘A New Idea of India: Individual Rights in a Civilisational State’ by two bright minds @harshmadhusudan and @RMantri. Their work makes rich contributions to intellectual discourse. I hope you read it too…” Over the past few days, I have been reading, 'A New Idea of India: Individual Rights in a Civilisational State’ by two bright minds @harshmadhusudan and @RMantri. Their work makes rich contributions to intellectual discourse. I hope you read it too... https://t.co/fcAiPr4mM4 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 19, 2020 × "Our book is about political philosophy and public policy, so there could not be a bigger recognition than the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi himself, reading and recommending it. We did not expect PM Modi’s praise for our work. We are grateful that he took the time to engage with the ideas we presented in the book, and it goes without saying that has increased the effective audience of the book multifold," the authors told wionews.com, in an exclusive conversation. The name of the book is particularly interesting. Because every person has his/her own understanding and idea of what India has been and what it should be. So how does their idea of new India stand to influence people differently? "The idea of India we espouse is not one that is definitive or exclusive, and it is as descriptive as it is prescriptive. It is one of 'individual rights in a civilisational state', which is also the subtitle of the book. It builds on the ancient ethos of India - Dharma - while contextualizing it for the present times. After Partition and Independence, India formed a Republic which still emphasised group rights and identities in the eyes of the State while underplaying the ancient heritage of the land and its peoples," they said, adding, "India chose a hypocritical, inefficient and corrupt economic model while declining to ally with the leading democracies of the era in the name of postcolonialism. Our book is meant as a corrective, but we welcome critiques and new ideas. India is ancient but the republic is new. Similarly, our cultures are old but our citizens are young. We try to reconcile that." Talking of critiques, for the better part of seven decades after India achieved its Independence, the Nehruvian idea of the country held sway in its polity. And any criticism of the way India has been functioning can be attributed to that period of time. The authors partly agree. They said, "Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and his colleagues -- initially including Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, BR Ambedkar, SP Mukherjee and C Rajagopalachari -- had a very challenging task when India became independent. Nehru’s governance paradigm had three key pillars of socialism, non-alignment (that eventually placed India in the Communist camp during the Cold War), and a politically convenient distortion of secularism. This paradigm was carried forward by his daughter, grandson and in a different version his granddaughter-in-law but it did not succeed in building a secure, prosperous India even as decade after decade rolled on after 1947. "Yes, there was much progress in absolute terms but compared to people's aspirations and many other similarly placed countries, India did not quite succeed. That is fairly obvious even though we can quibble on the details." But didn't the class difference and the basic way of governing came as an extension of the monarchy and British rule that were there till India gained its Independence? "To some extent, yes, they did. But this too was a failing of -- or choice of -- those who led India after Independence. In many ways, the new elite decided -- perhaps, subconsciously -- that it wanted to replace the colonial elite," Madhusudan and Mantri said. The young authors consider the lack of awareness among people of India as one of the major challenges towards achieving the ultimate goal. "We think a key challenge will be simply for people to learn about the issues from first principles. The issues need to be discussed threadbare, and another key challenge will be achieving an exchange where all sides approach each other with respect when debating these critical national issues. Important topics in areas as diverse as economic policy, national security, historiography, the freeing of Hindu temples and schools, personal civil laws, gender equity and so on need to be discussed with scholarship," they told wionews.com. Harsh Madhusudan added, "We are against political correctness for the sake of it, but we must also work towards more sensitivity without totally giving up on wit and the occasional barb. Some excusable mistakes will be made but we can collectively make present day India worthy of its heritage again." In every democratic system of the world, the opposition plays the most important role -- to question the governance. But the recent victories of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies have decimated the concept. Does India feel the lack or need? "Every democracy should have a robust opposition. However, opposition can come from many sources, not just from political parties although that is also necessary. India in any case has federalism and a bicameral legislature. We feel that any BJP-led government is additionally kept in check by its own supporters. That is the power of a movement committed explicitly to ideas - the focus stays on the policy and political objectives of the movement. The philosophy is the north star. Contrast this with political parties that are essentially crowds around a family," the authors said. So has the Indian National Congress failed to capitalise on its foundation? "Unfortunately, there is nothing Indian or National or Congressional about the Indian National Congress anymore - pardon our reference to the famous quip about the Holy Roman Empire. The Congress is a party that has strayed very far from its roots, which is why the people of India are rejecting it. To remain relevant, the Congress will have to make ideological concessions and reinvent itself," Madhusudan and Mantri said. An excerpt from the book -- On Kashmir, Pakistan and Karl Popper -- has particularly caught everyone's attention for the juxtaposition of political views it stands to represent. It says, "There is an inherent tension between, for example, support for absolute free speech and other liberties and the dystopia that may be caused by irrational and possibly violent intolerance of the chronically intolerant. Ideally, we would not like this tension to exist and prefer individual rights to be fully guaranteed by the State at all times. But there are cases where the exercise of such individual rights can lead to the demise of the very State that is supposed to protect these rights. How then does one square the circle once again?" (The excerpt is given at the end of the copy.) Experts have partly agreed, and begged to differ too. At the same time. To this end, the dynamic authors explained, "Karl Popper is among the greatest philosophers and thinkers of all time, and one of the key ideas he postulated, and which we have presented in the book, is that one should not tolerate those who are intolerant beyond a point. He also talked about historicism but let us focus on the insight that liberalism should not be used to destroy the conditions that enable that liberalism to survive and thrive. "Admittedly, the question of when the transitional point threatening the openness of societies occurs is subjective, and that is what we try to debate in the book. In most stable areas and normal conditions, where there is no de facto war-like situation, we would like near-absolute freedom of speech alongside an increase in state, policing and judicial capacity. Importantly, the lack of blasphemy and apostasy as concepts in our Dharmic heritage provide strong support for this position." They added, "But Popper's key point remains that ultimately freedom cannot be used to subvert freedom itself. In 1863, US President Abraham Lincoln suspended habeas corpus during the American Civil War, when he was leading the fight to preserve the American republic and end the scourge of slavery. India too should preserve this civilisational republic of ours and defeat any theocratic or separatist designs that some groups may have. To that extent, it does not matter what some intellectuals or commentators may say here or abroad." The book 'A New Idea of India' constructs and expounds on a new framework beyond the rough and tumble of partisan politics. It has been authored by Harsh Madhusudan and Rajeev Mantri, and the foreword has been written by Sanjeev Sanyal. Madhusudan and Mantri's partnership has been over a decade long. "We connected first on social media just before the 2009 general election campaign. We have known each other for over a decade now and have collaborated on over fifty articles and essays," Rajeev Mantri said, adding, "Sanjeev Sanyal has been a mentor and friend to both of us, and he along with the bestselling author Amish was instrumental in encouraging us to write this book. Their support gave us a lot of confidence to pursue the project. When we finished the manuscript, Sanjeev Sanyal was the first person we thought of when we thought of the Foreword, and we were delighted when Sanjeev agreed to do so." 'A New Idea of India: Individual Rights in a Civilisational State' has been published by Westland, and is priced at a little over Rs 600. It's Kindle edition is also available on amazon.in -- at the price of Rs 499. Harsh Madhusudan and Rajeev Mantri aim to release at least one Indian language translation of the book next year. EXCERPT: On Kashmir, Pakistan and Karl Popper The philosopher Karl Popper wrote in his classic work The Open Society and Its Enemies that if we want to see tolerance thrive, it is very important that we do not tolerate intolerance beyond a point. I do not imply, for instance, that we should always suppress the utterance of intolerant philosophies; as long as we can counter them by rational argument and keep them in check by public opinion, suppression would certainly be unwise. But we should claim the right to suppress them if necessary even by force; for it may easily turn out that they are not prepared to meet us on the level of rational argument, but begin by denouncing all argument; they may forbid their followers to listen to rational argument, because it is deceptive, and teach them to answer arguments by the use of their fists or pistols. We should therefore claim, in the name of tolerance, the right not to tolerate the intolerant. There is an inherent tension between, for example, support for absolute free speech and other liberties and the dystopia that may be caused by irrational and possibly violent intolerance of the chronically intolerant. Ideally, we would not like this tension to exist and prefer individual rights to be fully guaranteed by the State at all times. But there are cases where the exercise of such individual rights can lead to the demise of the very State that is supposed to protect these rights. How then does one square the circle once again? Let us go from the abstract to the specific and consider the case of Kashmir. The issue there is much less complicated than has been made out by umpteen talking heads and commentators, who cannot see the obvious reality right in front of them due to their desire for political correctness. The Kashmir valley, an area of about 4,000 square kilometres, has an overwhelming demographic dominance of Sunni Muslims, a dominance that was secured by the violent and brutal expulsion of Kashmiri Hindus from there in 1990. The area being adjacent to Pakistan, a few want to secede from ‘Hindu’ India in the name of their religion. The media often conflates this relatively small area with all of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, which has a total land area of over 222,000 square kilometres. There are obviously geographical, historical and legal factors that can be debated about this region until the cows come home, but the fundamental sore point for Pakistan is, how can a Muslim-majority border region be a part of India and not of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan? How should India react to Pakistan’s revanchism? One school of thought says let us not hold any people, even if within a small valley, against their will. But then, what would be the implications of a second religious partition for India? It would imply that a minority that becomes a majority in an Indian state can never be truly Indian, and this may cause further fissures within the rest of India. This is not just a hypothetical scenario. Demographic changes in Kerala, West Bengal and Assam are moving in that direction, as census data from 2001 and 2011 show. In West Bengal, the Muslim population increased by 21.8 per cent between 2001 and 2011, compared to 10.8 per cent for the Hindu population. In Kerala, the Muslim population increased by 12.8 per cent between 2001 and 2011, compared to 2.2 per cent for the Hindu population. In Assam, the Muslim population increased by 29.5 per cent between 2001 and 2011, compared to 10.9 per cent for the Hindu population. Should India just wait for that to happen? Obviously not. No State would tolerate that, and the civilisational state of India, that is Bharat certainly would not. For Bharat is nothing without Dharma, as Sri Aurobindo said in his 1909 Uttarpara speech80 before he retired to a life of spiritual exploration. It is important to contrast the secessionist demands of the Sunni Muslim Kashmir Valley with such demands in, say, Catalonia (Spain), Scotland (United Kingdom) or Quebec (Canada). Any successful secession in the latter cases would result in a new nation–state within the broader West. In the first two cases, the new countries would be within not just the West but also within the European Union. Even a free Quebec would almost certainly be absorbed into NAFTA’s successor trade framework and the NATO security grouping. There is a civilizational logic to these inclusions and exclusions. Turkey, for example, could never enter the European Union and is plausibly going to leave NATO as well. The renowned British philosopher Roger Scruton remarked while building on the work of constitutional jurist Jeremy Rabkin, ‘The nation–state has been the greatest guarantor of freedom in the modern world, precisely because it establishes a territorial, rather than religious, jurisdiction. It is this that enables the nation–state to treat citizenship, rather than creed, as the criterion of membership.’81 Still, his view must be seen in the European historical context of medieval religious wars. It is important to belabour this point—if Northern Ireland unites with the Republic of Ireland and breaks with Union of England and Wales (and perhaps Scotland), as is plausible in the next few years,82 it is partially because of demographic changes (for the first time in centuries probably Catholics outnumber Protestants), but also because of ideological changes, namely, the Republic of Ireland as part of the larger civilisational entity of the European Union and in keeping with the zeitgeist of secular modernity, has given up draconian restrictions on abortion and has had a mixed-race prime minister from the LGBT community. No heretics are of course being killed, and there is no de facto concept of religious speech being declared as blasphemous by the State. With the sharp edges gone, the two Irelands can focus on the commonalities of their shared ethnolinguistic, Christian and now liberal heritage, egged on by the decision of Brexit. Seen from this civilisational framework, any new Western country would simply mean a rearrangement of internal civilisational boundaries akin to the creation of a new state such as Telangana or Jharkhand within India. On the other hand, the so so-called freeing of Kashmir—whether through ‘azaadi’ or formal merger with Pakistan—would mean the loss of territory to a hostile civilisational unit. That is the reality. Let us, for a moment, see Kashmir as Northern Ireland, Pakistan as the Republic of Ireland, and India as the United Kingdom (in which case, the rest of India is Great Britain). Some people can argue that for demographic and geographical reasons, Kashmir (more specifically the Valley districts) should go to Pakistan. But there are many objections to this. First, the Partition was never about a one-to-one mapping to religious demographics even though that was the broad principle. Second, Pakistan is not like the Irish Republic in this thought experiment. Pakistan has not even remotely experienced any period of secular–liberal Enlightenment which would make the minorities, including many Shias and Muslim liberals, in the Valley comfortable about joining that setup (and even independence would be practically joining Pakistan, given the Valley’s landlocked geography). Third, even if Pakistan were to miraculously go through a genuine secularisation process, the principle of self-determination applies significantly less to a democratic, pluralistic setup such as India’s as compared to a theocratic or authoritarian one. If the United States can sacrifice around 6,00,000 of its young men in the sparsely populated 1860s and temporarily suspend civil liberties to preserve the Union and break the back of slavery, India can, and will, fight to keep the Union and defeat theocracy. Finally, quite simply, Kashmir is integral to India’s civilisational heritage, given its millennia-old Hindu and Buddhist history. FUN FACT: Within minutes of the prime minister posting the appreciation tweet, the mentioned website crashed due to unexpected traffic. Rajeev Mantri informed he was working with the hosting service providers to fix the server. He wrote, “The book website linked to by the Prime Minister has gone down due to the surge in traffic, we are working with the hosting provider to fix it! Please bear with us.” The book website linked to by the Prime Minister has gone down due to the surge in traffic, we are working with the hosting provider to fix it! Please bear with us 🙏 https://t.co/rYo0PvX9Y2 — Rajeev Mantri (@RMantri) November 19, 2020 ×

Harsh Madhusudan, Rajeev Mantri speak to WION about their book, the one that PM Modi endorsed on Twitter

For years India's ties with the Gulf have been anchored on oil. It's time to go beyond it and focus on numerous untapped avenues. As India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar Tours West India, WION's Molly Gambhir tells you about the various areas where India and The Gulf can expand cooperation.

Gravitas: Untapped avenues in India, Gulf ties

PM Narendra Modi has been accorded with State Honours by leading Gulf Nations. The partnership has yielded diplomatic and political gains for the Indian Prime Minister. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you how India can help the Gulf, as the region tries to reinvent itself.

Gravitas: How Prime Minister Modi built an alliance with the Gulf

As a number of states are witnessing a fresh spike in coronavirus cases, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reviewing meet with chief ministers and other representatives of 8 states and union territories via video conferencing on Tuesday to review the COVID-19 situation and discuss the vaccine distribution strategy.

Indian PM Modi reviews COVID-19 situation with CMs of 8 states

In a virtual conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with the chief ministers of the eight states where COVID-19 have seen a sudden rise post the festive season.

During the first leg of this PM-CM meeting, he took stock of the Covid-19 situation in these states.

Maharashtra, Kerala, Delhi, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana and Gujarat are the 8 states that are plagued with rising Covid cases as India intensifies its fight against the pandemic.

In the first leg of the meeting, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal blamed the sudden spike on pollution.

He said though the national capital saw a sudden spike of 8,600 cases on November 10, the positivity rate has been steadily decreasing since.

He urged for an additional 1,000 ICU beds in central government hospitals till the third wave lasts.

A presentation was made during the meeting which said the national capital has seen an average 111 deaths in the last one week. Maharashtra`s average death was found to be 93 in the last one week. Rajasthan`s positivity rate was found to be 21 per cent in last week which was very high.

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Maharashtra`s Udhhav Thackeray, Rajasthan`s Ashok Gehlot, Gujarat`s Vijay Rupani were also in attendance.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Health Minister Harsh Vardhan were also present during the meeting as were V.K. Paul of the Niti Aayog, the Cabinet Secretary and the Union Health Secretary.

During the meeting, Banerjee claimed that the state`s performance on Covid was affected due to the international border it shares with other countries.

She also raised the issue of the GST dues that the Centre owes it.

Ahead of the meeting, the Rajasthan government had hiked fine to Rs 500 for those who were not adhering to wearing of masks. It was mentioned during the PM-CM meeting as well, by the state.

Shah cited examples of the US and Europe to urge states to exercise caution.

He advised the eight states -- in the Covid Red Zone -- to stringently ensure that all wear masks while in public places and maintain physical distancing, besides the high level of hygiene.

The Union Health Secretary said that the Covid situation in four states particularly -- Delhi, Kerala, Rajasthan and Maharashtra needs careful monitoring in the days to come.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a virtual conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with the chief ministers of the eight states where COVID-19 have seen a sudden rise post the festive season.

In a virtual conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday interacted with the chief ministers of the eight states where COVID-19 have seen a sudden rise post the festive season. During the first leg of this PM-CM meeting, he took stock of the Covid-19 situation in these states. Maharashtra, Kerala, Delhi, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Haryana and Gujarat are the 8 states that are plagued with rising Covid cases as India intensifies its fight against the pandemic. In the first leg of the meeting, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal blamed the sudden spike on pollution. He said though the national capital saw a sudden spike of 8,600 cases on November 10, the positivity rate has been steadily decreasing since. He urged for an additional 1,000 ICU beds in central government hospitals till the third wave lasts. A presentation was made during the meeting which said the national capital has seen an average 111 deaths in the last one week. Maharashtra`s average death was found to be 93 in the last one week. Rajasthan`s positivity rate was found to be 21 per cent in last week which was very high. Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Maharashtra`s Udhhav Thackeray, Rajasthan`s Ashok Gehlot, Gujarat`s Vijay Rupani were also in attendance. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Health Minister Harsh Vardhan were also present during the meeting as were V.K. Paul of the Niti Aayog, the Cabinet Secretary and the Union Health Secretary. During the meeting, Banerjee claimed that the state`s performance on Covid was affected due to the international border it shares with other countries. She also raised the issue of the GST dues that the Centre owes it. Ahead of the meeting, the Rajasthan government had hiked fine to Rs 500 for those who were not adhering to wearing of masks. It was mentioned during the PM-CM meeting as well, by the state. Shah cited examples of the US and Europe to urge states to exercise caution. He advised the eight states -- in the Covid Red Zone -- to stringently ensure that all wear masks while in public places and maintain physical distancing, besides the high level of hygiene. The Union Health Secretary said that the Covid situation in four states particularly -- Delhi, Kerala, Rajasthan and Maharashtra needs careful monitoring in the days to come. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi meets CMs: Kejriwal blames Covid spike on pollution, Mamata demands GST dues 

As Coastal areas of Tamil Nadu is bracing for a heavy downpour and strong winds due to Cyclone Nivar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry ahead of the impending cyclone that is going to cross into the state and UT by Wednesday.

"Spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Shri Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Puducherry CM Shri V Narayanasami regarding the situation in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas," the PM tweeted.

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Spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/EPSTamilNadu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EPSTamilNadu</a> and Puducherry CM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/VNarayanasami?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VNarayanasami</a> regarding the situation in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1331105291715407872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into cyclonic storm Nivar and lay centred about 410 km East-southeast of Puducherry and 450 km southeast of Chennai, said the India Meteorological Department.

According to the weather department, over the next 24 hours it is likely to intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm and cross Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mamallapuram around Wednesday 8 p.m. as a Severe Cyclonic Storm with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph.

Squally weather with wind speed reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph is likely to prevail over Southwest Bay of Bengal and along &amp; off Tamil Nadu, Puducherry coast on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Coastal areas of Tamil Nadu is bracing for a heavy downpour and strong winds due to Cyclone Nivar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry ahead of the impending cyclone that is going to cross into the state and UT by Wednesday.

As Coastal areas of Tamil Nadu is bracing for a heavy downpour and strong winds due to Cyclone Nivar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday spoke to the Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry ahead of the impending cyclone that is going to cross into the state and UT by Wednesday. "Spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Shri Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Puducherry CM Shri V Narayanasami regarding the situation in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas," the PM tweeted. Spoke to Tamil Nadu CM Shri @EPSTamilNadu and Puducherry CM Shri @VNarayanasami regarding the situation in the wake of Cyclone Nivar. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for the safety and well-being of those living in the affected areas. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 24, 2020 × A deep depression over southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified into cyclonic storm Nivar and lay centred about 410 km East-southeast of Puducherry and 450 km southeast of Chennai, said the India Meteorological Department. According to the weather department, over the next 24 hours it is likely to intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm and cross Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mamallapuram around Wednesday 8 p.m. as a Severe Cyclonic Storm with a wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting to 120 kmph. Squally weather with wind speed reaching 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph is likely to prevail over Southwest Bay of Bengal and along & off Tamil Nadu, Puducherry coast on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi assures support to Tamil Nadu, Puducherry as Cyclone Nivar nears

Indian officials have said they expect to rely on COVAXIN and four other locally-tested candidates to control COVID-19.

India's COVID-19 vaccine COVAXIN's final trials could end in 2 months

In the rare occurrence, Indian PM Narendra Modi tweeted about the killing of Pakistani terrorists in the Nagrota region of Jammu & Kashmir. The significance tweet comes on the back of high level meets shared by PM which revealed that the plot was much bigger.

Nagrota Encounter: PM Modi's rare tweet on anti-terror operation

According to news agency ANI's report, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a review meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, which found that the terrorists were planning a major attack on the 26/11 anniversary in India.

WION Dispatch: PM Modi calls for review meeting in the light of Nagrota terror incident

Source: Terrorists planned something big on 26/11 attack anniversary, PM Modi call meeting

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a review meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval after it was found that terrorists were planning a big attack on the anniversary of 26/11 terror attack, news agency ANI reported quoting govt sources.

Four JeM terrorists hiding in a lorry were gunned down by the security forces at the Ban toll plaza in the Nagrota area of Jammu district on Thursday in an early morning encounter that lasted for over three hours.&nbsp;

Mumbai had come under attack on November 26, 2008, when 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists targeted the city in a series of coordinated shootings and bombings that injured over 300 and claimed the lives of 166 people in India's financial capital.

According to sources, the four terrorists are likely from the United Nations-designated terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). "These terrorists used old modus operandi and had recently infiltrated the Indian side. An investigation is underway," they added.

Mukesh Singh, Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone had said that it was possible terrorists were planning a "big attack" and targeting the upcoming District Development Council (DDC) elections in the Union Territory.

The DDC elections will be conducted in Jammu and Kashmir in eight phases between November 28 and December 19, and the counting of votes will take place on December 22.

The IG, Jammu Zone also informed that the kind of seizure from the encounter site is "unprecedented". "It's possible that they were planning a big attack. This kind of seizure is unprecedented. It is possible that they were targeting the DDC election. However, we are investigating," Singh said.

The encounter broke out after a truck was intercepted at 5 am on Thursday during a routine check.

"During the search, CRPF soldiers and police were fired upon using heavy ammunition, and grenades were also lobbed. More forces were called in and the encounter went on for 3 hours," the IG said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a review meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval after it was found that terrorists were planning a big attack on the anniversary of 26/11 terror attack, news agency ANI reported quoting govt sources.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a review meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval after it was found that terrorists were planning a big attack on the anniversary of 26/11 terror attack, news agency ANI reported quoting govt sources. Four JeM terrorists hiding in a lorry were gunned down by the security forces at the Ban toll plaza in the Nagrota area of Jammu district on Thursday in an early morning encounter that lasted for over three hours. Mumbai had come under attack on November 26, 2008, when 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists targeted the city in a series of coordinated shootings and bombings that injured over 300 and claimed the lives of 166 people in India's financial capital. According to sources, the four terrorists are likely from the United Nations-designated terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). "These terrorists used old modus operandi and had recently infiltrated the Indian side. An investigation is underway," they added. Mukesh Singh, Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone had said that it was possible terrorists were planning a "big attack" and targeting the upcoming District Development Council (DDC) elections in the Union Territory. The DDC elections will be conducted in Jammu and Kashmir in eight phases between November 28 and December 19, and the counting of votes will take place on December 22. The IG, Jammu Zone also informed that the kind of seizure from the encounter site is "unprecedented". "It's possible that they were planning a big attack. This kind of seizure is unprecedented. It is possible that they were targeting the DDC election. However, we are investigating," Singh said. The encounter broke out after a truck was intercepted at 5 am on Thursday during a routine check. "During the search, CRPF soldiers and police were fired upon using heavy ammunition, and grenades were also lobbed. More forces were called in and the encounter went on for 3 hours," the IG said. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorists had planned attack on 26/11 anniversary: PM Modi holds review meet

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement.

The summit was held through video conferencing. During his address, PM Modi also talked about common values like democracy, rule of law and freedom which have strengthened the bilateral ties.

"There is a huge potential to expand economic engagement between the two countries. We have good cooperation in areas like steel, financial technology, digital domain, but there is a massive possibility of taking it forward," Modi said at the meeting with his Luxembourg counterpart Xavier Bette.

Luxembourg is one of the most important financial centers globally. Several Indian companies have raised capital by issuing Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.

Several Luxembourg-based investment funds hold substantial banking and asset management market share in portfolio investments in India.

In his remarks, Modi also talked about possible cooperation between the two countries in dealing with the economic and health challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

"When the world is fighting the economic and health challenges of the COVID19 pandemic, the partnership between India and Luxemburg can be beneficial for the two countries as well as both the regions," Modi said.

He also welcomed Luxembourg's announcement to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA, initiated by India, is an alliance of over 120 countries which is focused on working for efficient consumption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Modi also invited Luxembourg to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

Luxembourg is a key country in the European Union (EU), and is also the third largest source of FPI in India after US and Mauritius accounting for approximately 8.5 per cent of these investments.

India and Luxembourg have a longstanding cooperation in the steel sector. Luxembourgish company Paul Wurth has been in India for the last two decades and played an important role in upgrading the steel sector in India in collaboration with SAIL, TISCO and Jindal Steel.

ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel-producing company, is based out of Luxembourg and recently entered into a joint-venture in India, partnering with Nippon Steel.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement. The summit was held through video conferencing. During his address, PM Modi also talked about common values like democracy, rule of law and freedom which have strengthened the bilateral ties. "There is a huge potential to expand economic engagement between the two countries. We have good cooperation in areas like steel, financial technology, digital domain, but there is a massive possibility of taking it forward," Modi said at the meeting with his Luxembourg counterpart Xavier Bette. Luxembourg is one of the most important financial centers globally. Several Indian companies have raised capital by issuing Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Several Luxembourg-based investment funds hold substantial banking and asset management market share in portfolio investments in India. In his remarks, Modi also talked about possible cooperation between the two countries in dealing with the economic and health challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. "When the world is fighting the economic and health challenges of the COVID19 pandemic, the partnership between India and Luxemburg can be beneficial for the two countries as well as both the regions," Modi said. He also welcomed Luxembourg's announcement to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA, initiated by India, is an alliance of over 120 countries which is focused on working for efficient consumption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Modi also invited Luxembourg to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Luxembourg is a key country in the European Union (EU), and is also the third largest source of FPI in India after US and Mauritius accounting for approximately 8.5 per cent of these investments. India and Luxembourg have a longstanding cooperation in the steel sector. Luxembourgish company Paul Wurth has been in India for the last two decades and played an important role in upgrading the steel sector in India in collaboration with SAIL, TISCO and Jindal Steel. ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel-producing company, is based out of Luxembourg and recently entered into a joint-venture in India, partnering with Nippon Steel. (With PTI inputs)

India-Luxembourg summit: PM Modi pitches for strengthening relations

Indian PM Narendra Modi spoke to US President-elect Joe Biden on Tuesday to congratulate him on his win and reiterate India's firm commitment to its strategic partnership with the United States. The Prime Minister also offered his congratulations to Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, and said that her success was a matter of pride for the Indian-American community.

PM Modi & Biden discuss issues of mutual cooperation | Indian PM also hails VP elect Kamala Harris

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Tuesday take part in the 12th BRICS or Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa summit that will take place virtually.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend virtual summit of BRICS

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday condoled the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/soumitra-chatterjee-famous-bengali-actor-dies-at-the-age-of-85-343255"> death of legendary</a> actor Soumitra Chatterjee who breathed his last at Belle Vue Hospital in Kolkata. 
 
The Prime Minister said that Soumitra Chatterjee`s death is a colossal loss to the world of cinema, cultural life of West Bengal and India."Shri Soumitra Chatterjee`s death is a colossal loss to the world of cinema, the cultural life of West Bengal and India. Through his works, he came to embody Bengali sensibilities, emotions and ethos. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," the Prime Minister tweeted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/remembering-soumitra-chatterjee-1935-2020-the-man-who-remained-relevant-for-five-long-decades-343284" hreflang="en">Remembering Soumitra Chatterjee (1935-2020): The man who remained relevant for five long decades</a>

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Shri Soumitra Chatterjee’s death is a colossal loss to the world of cinema, cultural life of West Bengal and India. Through his works, he came to embody Bengali sensibilities, emotions and ethos. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1327901549142556679?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Union Home Minister Amit Shah also mourned the demise of Chatterjee on Twitter and said that the Indian silver screen has lost a gem." Deeply pained to learn about the demise of legendary Soumitra Chatterjee ji. An iconic actor, who took Bengali cinema to new heights. In Soumitra Da, Indian silver screen has lost a gem," the Minister tweeted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/soumitra-chatterjee-refused-to-accept-his-national-award-in-protest-lesser-known-facts-about-the-legendary-actor-343281" hreflang="en">Soumitra Chatterjee refused to accept his national award in protest; lesser-known facts about the legendary actor</a>

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Deeply pained to learn about the demise of legendary Soumitra Chatterjee ji. An iconic actor, who took Bengali cinema to new heights. In Soumitra Da, Indian silver screen has lost a gem. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and countless followers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1327898594565754880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"My thoughts and prayers are with his family and countless followers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti," he said. Legendary Bengali actor and Dada Saheb Phalke Award winner Soumitra Chatterjee was known for his collaborations with Oscar-winning film director Satyajit Ray. With him, an era in Bengali movies came to an end.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday condoled the death of legendary actor Soumitra Chatterjee who breathed his last at Belle Vue Hospital in Kolkata. The Prime Minister said that Soumitra Chatterjee`s death is a colossal loss to the world of cinema, cultural life of West Bengal and India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday condoled the death of legendary actor Soumitra Chatterjee who breathed his last at Belle Vue Hospital in Kolkata. The Prime Minister said that Soumitra Chatterjee`s death is a colossal loss to the world of cinema, cultural life of West Bengal and India."Shri Soumitra Chatterjee`s death is a colossal loss to the world of cinema, the cultural life of West Bengal and India. Through his works, he came to embody Bengali sensibilities, emotions and ethos. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti," the Prime Minister tweeted. Remembering Soumitra Chatterjee (1935-2020): The man who remained relevant for five long decades Shri Soumitra Chatterjee’s death is a colossal loss to the world of cinema, cultural life of West Bengal and India. Through his works, he came to embody Bengali sensibilities, emotions and ethos. Anguished by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2020 × Union Home Minister Amit Shah also mourned the demise of Chatterjee on Twitter and said that the Indian silver screen has lost a gem." Deeply pained to learn about the demise of legendary Soumitra Chatterjee ji. An iconic actor, who took Bengali cinema to new heights. In Soumitra Da, Indian silver screen has lost a gem," the Minister tweeted. Soumitra Chatterjee refused to accept his national award in protest; lesser-known facts about the legendary actor Deeply pained to learn about the demise of legendary Soumitra Chatterjee ji. An iconic actor, who took Bengali cinema to new heights. In Soumitra Da, Indian silver screen has lost a gem. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and countless followers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti — Amit Shah (@AmitShah) November 15, 2020 × "My thoughts and prayers are with his family and countless followers. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti," he said. Legendary Bengali actor and Dada Saheb Phalke Award winner Soumitra Chatterjee was known for his collaborations with Oscar-winning film director Satyajit Ray. With him, an era in Bengali movies came to an end.

PM Modi, Amit Shah mourn the demise of legendary actor Soumitra Chatterjee

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Longewala post at Rajasthan border on Saturday morning to celebrate Diwali with soldiers.

PM Modi salutes Armed forces on the occasion of Diwali

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