Unfazed by the controversy enveloping his film, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pm-narendra-modi-biopic-supreme-court-declines-urgent-hearing-in-stopping-release-of-film-case-208093">'PM Narendra Modi'</a>, actor Vivek Oberoi on Saturday&nbsp;said that the delay caused by "strong opponents" will not be able to deter his will.

The actor told ANI, "Even though are date has been delayed, but we are undeterred. There are powerful people who are standing against us including many renowned lawyers of the Supreme Court. But we are certain that they can delay us, but cannot deter us."

The film has come under a cloud with Opposition parties claiming that its release was planned for April 5 with the intention of influencing voters in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.

Various political parties also stated that releasing the film in less than a week before the Lok Sabha&nbsp;elections is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct.

Several political leaders had requested to delay the release of the biopic.

Oberoi, who is playing the lead role in the film also took the opportunity to thank the judiciary for its support and added, "I would like to thank the Indian judiciary for giving us justice. On Monday we are being taken to the Supreme Court. We are hopeful that we will get blessings and support from there as well."

The biopic on the incumbent Prime Minister got a new release date yesterday. The film will now hit the theatres on April 11.

He also thanked the people of the nation for their love and support, and said, "We would like to thank you (people) for your blessings and support as that it is our strength at this time. With a lot of efforts, we made a film on Narendra Modi which we wanted to release and share with you all on April 5. But some people surrounded us with so many problems that we could not come on April 5, but now with your blessings and efforts, we are trying to come on April 11. "

The film depicts the journey of Prime Minister Modi from his humble beginnings to his years as a Chief Minister and finally his landmark election as the Prime Minister of the country.

Vivek plays the titular role of Prime Minister Modi in the biopic and will be seen essaying as many as nine different looks. This is the first time that the 42-year-old actor will be seen playing a real-life character in the upcoming drama.

Apart from Vivek, the film also stars Boman Irani, Darshan Kumaar, Zarina Wahab, Manoj Joshi, Prashant Narayanan, Barkha Bisht Sengupta, Akshat R Saluja, Anjan Shrivastav, Rajendra Gupta and Yatin Karyekar in pivotal roles.

The Lok Sabha election is scheduled to be held in seven phases beginning April 11 and concluding on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

 
&nbsp;

Unfazed by the controversy enveloping his film, 'PM Narendra Modi', actor Vivek Oberoi on Saturday said that the delay caused by "strong opponents" will not be able to deter his will.

Unfazed by the controversy enveloping his film, 'PM Narendra Modi', actor Vivek Oberoi on Saturday said that the delay caused by "strong opponents" will not be able to deter his will. The actor told ANI, "Even though are date has been delayed, but we are undeterred. There are powerful people who are standing against us including many renowned lawyers of the Supreme Court. But we are certain that they can delay us, but cannot deter us." The film has come under a cloud with Opposition parties claiming that its release was planned for April 5 with the intention of influencing voters in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. Various political parties also stated that releasing the film in less than a week before the Lok Sabha elections is a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. Several political leaders had requested to delay the release of the biopic. Oberoi, who is playing the lead role in the film also took the opportunity to thank the judiciary for its support and added, "I would like to thank the Indian judiciary for giving us justice. On Monday we are being taken to the Supreme Court. We are hopeful that we will get blessings and support from there as well." The biopic on the incumbent Prime Minister got a new release date yesterday. The film will now hit the theatres on April 11. He also thanked the people of the nation for their love and support, and said, "We would like to thank you (people) for your blessings and support as that it is our strength at this time. With a lot of efforts, we made a film on Narendra Modi which we wanted to release and share with you all on April 5. But some people surrounded us with so many problems that we could not come on April 5, but now with your blessings and efforts, we are trying to come on April 11. " The film depicts the journey of Prime Minister Modi from his humble beginnings to his years as a Chief Minister and finally his landmark election as the Prime Minister of the country. Vivek plays the titular role of Prime Minister Modi in the biopic and will be seen essaying as many as nine different looks. This is the first time that the 42-year-old actor will be seen playing a real-life character in the upcoming drama. Apart from Vivek, the film also stars Boman Irani, Darshan Kumaar, Zarina Wahab, Manoj Joshi, Prashant Narayanan, Barkha Bisht Sengupta, Akshat R Saluja, Anjan Shrivastav, Rajendra Gupta and Yatin Karyekar in pivotal roles. The Lok Sabha election is scheduled to be held in seven phases beginning April 11 and concluding on May 19. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

PM Modi biopic: Undeterred despite strong opposition, says Vivek Oberoi

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Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defence systems, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday.

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President Donald Trump on Thursday said the United States and China were a month from a potentially "epic" trade agreement.

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Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, MacKenzie, finalised the biggest divorce settlement in history on Thursday, leaving him with 75 per cent of their stock in the tech giant and giving her nearly $36 billion in shares. &nbsp; &nbsp;

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Former auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn vowed to prove his innocence of alleged financial misdeeds but raised doubts about receiving a fair trial in Japan, in an interview with French television just before he was re-arrested on Thursday. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/release-of-modi-biopic-pm-narendra-modi-delayed-cbfc-chief-says-film-yet-to-be-certified-208041">Release</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/release-of-modi-biopic-pm-narendra-modi-delayed-cbfc-chief-says-film-yet-to-be-certified-208041"> of Modi biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' delayed, CBFC chief says film yet to be certified&nbsp;</a>

The release of "PM Narendra Modi", a biopic on the prime minister, has been pushed indefinitely, its producer Sandip Ssingh said on Thursday, a day before the film was scheduled to be screened in theatres across the country.

&nbsp;

S-400 missile purchase from Russia a 'done deal,' cannot be cancelled: Turkey Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defence systems, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday.

S-400 missile purchase from Russia a 'done deal,' cannot be cancelled: Turkey Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missile defence systems, which has raised tensions with Washington, is a "done deal" and cannot be cancelled, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Thursday. Trump gives US-China trade talks another four weeks President Donald Trump on Thursday said the United States and China were a month from a potentially "epic" trade agreement. After divorce settlement, MacKenzie Bezos becomes third richest woman in the world Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his wife, MacKenzie, finalised the biggest divorce settlement in history on Thursday, leaving him with 75 per cent of their stock in the tech giant and giving her nearly $36 billion in shares. 'I have names': Carlos Ghosn vows to clear his name in Japan trial Former auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn vowed to prove his innocence of alleged financial misdeeds but raised doubts about receiving a fair trial in Japan, in an interview with French television just before he was re-arrested on Thursday. Release of Modi biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' delayed, CBFC chief says film yet to be certified The release of "PM Narendra Modi", a biopic on the prime minister, has been pushed indefinitely, its producer Sandip Ssingh said on Thursday, a day before the film was scheduled to be screened in theatres across the country.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The release of 'PM Narendra Modi', a biopic on the prime minister, has been pushed indefinitely, its producer Sandip Ssingh said on Thursday, a day before the film was scheduled to be screened in theatres across the country.

Prasoon Joshi, chairperson of Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), said the film is undergoing due process of examination and certification.

The film was originally set to release on April 12 but producers had advanced it by a week, claiming "public demand". On Thursday morning they had again<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/release-of-pm-narendra-modi-featuring-vivek-oberoi-pushed-by-a-week-207824"> pushed the release by a week.&nbsp;</a>But now the makers have officially stated that the film's release has been stalled indefinitely.&nbsp;

"This is to confirm, our film 'PM Narendra Modi' is not releasing on 5th April. Will update soon," Ssingh posted on Twitter on Thursday.

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This is to confirm, our film 'PM Narendra Modi' is not releasing on 5th April. Will update soon.
— Sandip Ssingh (@sandip_Ssingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/sandip_Ssingh/status/1113760707860889602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Though he did not clarify further, the censor board chief said the process is still underway. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/supreme-court-agrees-to-hear-petition-seeking-stay-on-release-of-modi-biopic-207847">Also read:&nbsp;Supreme Court agrees to hear petition seeking stay on release of Modi biopic</a>

"Since there are a lot of queries around the certification of the film, (I) would like to give a clear picture: the film is going through the due process of examination and certification according to the requisite guidelines and is yet to be certified as the process is not complete at this point," Joshi told.

The film, fronted by<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pm-narendra-modi-is-not-a-political-film-it-is-an-inspirational-story-vivek-oberoi-207694"> Vivek Oberoi </a>and directed by 'Mary Kom'&nbsp;maker Omung Kumar, has courted controversy with various political parties saying that releasing it less than a week before the general elections begin is a violation of the model code of conduct.&nbsp;

The Congress made a formal complaint to the Election Commission over the release of the film.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission said it will take a final call on Friday on the release of the film.&nbsp;

"We have sought comments from the producer of the movie and also from BJP's general secretary... That have been received. The file is under examination and it has been listed for tomorrow (before the EC)," Deputy Election Commissioner Sandeep Saxena said in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Opposition parties, including the Congress, said the film would give undue advantage to the BJP in electioneering and its release should be deferred till the elections are over.

The project is also facing legal hurdles with a Congress leader filing a PIL in the Supreme Court, seeking a stay on its release. The court will hear the plea on Monday.&nbsp;The biopic ran into trouble over credits as well.&nbsp;

Lyricists Javed Akhtar and Sameer said they were credited without contributing to the project.

The producer, however, countered their claims, saying their old songs were reworked so they gave credit where due.

The seven-phase Lok Sabha polls begin on April 11 and end on May 19. The model code of conduct, which among other things, calls for an even playing field for all parties and candidates, came into force on March 10 when the elections were announced.

The release of 'PM Narendra Modi', a biopic on the prime minister, has been pushed indefinitely, its producer Sandip Ssingh said on Thursday, a day before the film was scheduled to be screened in theatres across the country.

The release of 'PM Narendra Modi', a biopic on the prime minister, has been pushed indefinitely, its producer Sandip Ssingh said on Thursday, a day before the film was scheduled to be screened in theatres across the country. Prasoon Joshi, chairperson of Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), said the film is undergoing due process of examination and certification. The film was originally set to release on April 12 but producers had advanced it by a week, claiming "public demand". On Thursday morning they had again pushed the release by a week. But now the makers have officially stated that the film's release has been stalled indefinitely. "This is to confirm, our film 'PM Narendra Modi' is not releasing on 5th April. Will update soon," Ssingh posted on Twitter on Thursday. This is to confirm, our film 'PM Narendra Modi' is not releasing on 5th April. Will update soon. — Sandip Ssingh (@sandip_Ssingh) April 4, 2019 × Though he did not clarify further, the censor board chief said the process is still underway. Also read: Supreme Court agrees to hear petition seeking stay on release of Modi biopic "Since there are a lot of queries around the certification of the film, (I) would like to give a clear picture: the film is going through the due process of examination and certification according to the requisite guidelines and is yet to be certified as the process is not complete at this point," Joshi told. The film, fronted by Vivek Oberoi and directed by 'Mary Kom' maker Omung Kumar, has courted controversy with various political parties saying that releasing it less than a week before the general elections begin is a violation of the model code of conduct. The Congress made a formal complaint to the Election Commission over the release of the film. Meanwhile, the Election Commission said it will take a final call on Friday on the release of the film. "We have sought comments from the producer of the movie and also from BJP's general secretary... That have been received. The file is under examination and it has been listed for tomorrow (before the EC)," Deputy Election Commissioner Sandeep Saxena said in New Delhi. Opposition parties, including the Congress, said the film would give undue advantage to the BJP in electioneering and its release should be deferred till the elections are over. The project is also facing legal hurdles with a Congress leader filing a PIL in the Supreme Court, seeking a stay on its release. The court will hear the plea on Monday. The biopic ran into trouble over credits as well. Lyricists Javed Akhtar and Sameer said they were credited without contributing to the project. The producer, however, countered their claims, saying their old songs were reworked so they gave credit where due. The seven-phase Lok Sabha polls begin on April 11 and end on May 19. The model code of conduct, which among other things, calls for an even playing field for all parties and candidates, came into force on March 10 when the elections were announced.

Release of Modi biopic 'PM Narendra Modi' delayed, CBFC chief says film yet to be certified 

The release of 'PM Narendra Modi' biopic starring Vivek Oberoi has been indefinitely postponed as the Supreme Court on Friday declined urgent hearing of an appeal filed against the Bombay High Court order which had refused to interfere with the release of the film.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/supreme-court-agrees-to-hear-petition-seeking-stay-on-release-of-modi-biopic-207847">petition</a> was filed by Congress spokesperson and lawyer Aman Panwar in the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

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Supreme Court declines urgent hearing of an appeal filed against the Bombay High Court order which had refused to interfere with the release of the Vivek Oberoi-starrer 'PM Narendra Modi.' <a href="https://t.co/Z8z4g58t3F">pic.twitter.com/Z8z4g58t3F</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1114038771496910848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "What biopic? We have not seen it. Perhaps we will watch it over the weekend, then you mention."

The bench told Panwar that it will come up in the regular course of hearing.

The court had on Thursday agreed to hear on April 8 Panwar's plea which sought deferment of the biopic's release till the completion of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, alleging that it was designed to "manipulate, influence and impress viewers and voters".

Appearing for the petitioner, lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi had told the bench headed by Justice Bobde that two high courts have refused to interfere with the release of the movie starring Vivek Oberoi. He submitted that the release of the movie may affect free and fair election as mandated in the Constitution. 
&nbsp; 
"Prime Minister Narendra Modi's biopic violates the model code of conduct. The release of this film which has been produced by people connected to the ruling party would affect free and fair polls," Singhvi said. 
&nbsp; 
The petition also alleged that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/release-of-modi-biopic-pm-narendra-modi-delayed-cbfc-chief-says-film-yet-to-be-certified-208041">Censor Board Chairman Prasoon Joshi</a> has acted as a judge in its own cause. "It is also pertinent to mention herein that this petition is not an attempt to censor the movie, but is only an attempt to ensure that the Moral Code of Conduct and other electoral laws are not violated during the General Elections 2019, through this movie," the petition added.

The Bombay High Court on Monday had disposed of a plea seeking deferment of the release of the biopic, saying the Election Commission will deal with the issue.

Meanwhile, the current status of the film is as such that the film has no immediate release date as the producer Sandip Ssingh tweeted, "This is to confirm, our film 'PM Narendra Modi' is not releasing on 5th April. Will update soon.”

Joshi, on the matter said, "Since there are a lot of queries around the certification of the film, (I) would like to give a clear picture: the film is going through the due process of examination and certification according to the requisite guidelines and is yet to be certified as the process is not complete at this point.”

The film has Vivek Oberoi playing the role of the current PM with Omung Kumar as the director.&nbsp;

The release of 'PM Narendra Modi' biopic starring Vivek Oberoi has been indefinitely postponed as the Supreme Court on Friday declined urgent hearing of an appeal filed against the Bombay High Court order which had refused to interfere with the release of the film.

The release of 'PM Narendra Modi' biopic starring Vivek Oberoi has been indefinitely postponed as the Supreme Court on Friday declined urgent hearing of an appeal filed against the Bombay High Court order which had refused to interfere with the release of the film. The petition was filed by Congress spokesperson and lawyer Aman Panwar in the Supreme Court. Supreme Court declines urgent hearing of an appeal filed against the Bombay High Court order which had refused to interfere with the release of the Vivek Oberoi-starrer 'PM Narendra Modi.' pic.twitter.com/Z8z4g58t3F — ANI (@ANI) April 5, 2019 × The bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said, "What biopic? We have not seen it. Perhaps we will watch it over the weekend, then you mention." The bench told Panwar that it will come up in the regular course of hearing. The court had on Thursday agreed to hear on April 8 Panwar's plea which sought deferment of the biopic's release till the completion of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, alleging that it was designed to "manipulate, influence and impress viewers and voters". Appearing for the petitioner, lawyer Abhishek Manu Singhvi had told the bench headed by Justice Bobde that two high courts have refused to interfere with the release of the movie starring Vivek Oberoi. He submitted that the release of the movie may affect free and fair election as mandated in the Constitution. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi's biopic violates the model code of conduct. The release of this film which has been produced by people connected to the ruling party would affect free and fair polls," Singhvi said. The petition also alleged that Censor Board Chairman Prasoon Joshi has acted as a judge in its own cause. "It is also pertinent to mention herein that this petition is not an attempt to censor the movie, but is only an attempt to ensure that the Moral Code of Conduct and other electoral laws are not violated during the General Elections 2019, through this movie," the petition added. The Bombay High Court on Monday had disposed of a plea seeking deferment of the release of the biopic, saying the Election Commission will deal with the issue. Meanwhile, the current status of the film is as such that the film has no immediate release date as the producer Sandip Ssingh tweeted, "This is to confirm, our film 'PM Narendra Modi' is not releasing on 5th April. Will update soon.” Joshi, on the matter said, "Since there are a lot of queries around the certification of the film, (I) would like to give a clear picture: the film is going through the due process of examination and certification according to the requisite guidelines and is yet to be certified as the process is not complete at this point.” The film has Vivek Oberoi playing the role of the current PM with Omung Kumar as the director.

'PM Narendra Modi' biopic: Supreme Court declines urgent hearing

Vivek Oberoi who plays the lead role in 'PM Narendra Modi' says the film is not political in nature but an inspirational film. &nbsp;

"Film has got nothing to do with politics or elections. The story is that of a Desh-bhakt," said the actor while speaking to the media ahead of the film's release.&nbsp;

Ever since BJP kick-started its `main bhi chowkidar` campaign ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, `chowkidar` has become a part of political discussions. While many are constantly criticising the programme, there are others who support it. The latest one to appreciate the campaign is Oberoi.

"Why is the opposition afraid, what are they afraid of I think they fear chowkidar ka danda (security guard`s wooden stick)," Oberoi asked.&nbsp; 
The film, which follows Prime Minister Modi from his humble beginnings to his years as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and finally his landmark victory catapulting him as the Prime Minister, recently came under the ECI scanner after Congress and Left parties complained to the poll body saying that it violates the Model Code of Conduct.

However, in a major relief to the makers of the biopic, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/release-of-pm-narendra-modi-cleared-by-the-delhi-high-court-207179">Delhi and Bombay High Court on Monday disposed-off the PIL</a>.

"It is sad to see that legendary lawyers like Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal are wasting their time behind a film. Why should they fear a small little film? Just because they are worried about political bickering and battle. Where is the proof? How can they mud sling on 18 years of my career? You are free to doubt. But the truth is it is an independent film. It is an inspirational film."

Besides Vivek, the film also stars Suresh Oberoi, Barkha Sengupta, Prashant Narayanan, Darshan Kumar, Boman Irani, Zarina Wahab, Manoj Joshi, Anjan Shrivastav, Karan Patel and Akshat R Saluja. 'PM Narendra Modi' is scheduled to release on 5th April.&nbsp;

Vivek Oberoi who plays the lead role in 'PM Narendra Modi' says the film is not political in nature but an inspirational film. "Film has got nothing to do with politics or elections.

Vivek Oberoi who plays the lead role in 'PM Narendra Modi' says the film is not political in nature but an inspirational film. "Film has got nothing to do with politics or elections. The story is that of a Desh-bhakt," said the actor while speaking to the media ahead of the film's release. Ever since BJP kick-started its `main bhi chowkidar` campaign ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, `chowkidar` has become a part of political discussions. While many are constantly criticising the programme, there are others who support it. The latest one to appreciate the campaign is Oberoi. "Why is the opposition afraid, what are they afraid of I think they fear chowkidar ka danda (security guard`s wooden stick)," Oberoi asked. The film, which follows Prime Minister Modi from his humble beginnings to his years as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and finally his landmark victory catapulting him as the Prime Minister, recently came under the ECI scanner after Congress and Left parties complained to the poll body saying that it violates the Model Code of Conduct. However, in a major relief to the makers of the biopic, the Delhi and Bombay High Court on Monday disposed-off the PIL. "It is sad to see that legendary lawyers like Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal are wasting their time behind a film. Why should they fear a small little film? Just because they are worried about political bickering and battle. Where is the proof? How can they mud sling on 18 years of my career? You are free to doubt. But the truth is it is an independent film. It is an inspirational film." Besides Vivek, the film also stars Suresh Oberoi, Barkha Sengupta, Prashant Narayanan, Darshan Kumar, Boman Irani, Zarina Wahab, Manoj Joshi, Anjan Shrivastav, Karan Patel and Akshat R Saluja. 'PM Narendra Modi' is scheduled to release on 5th April.

'PM Narendra Modi' is not a political film, it is an inspirational story: Vivek Oberoi

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore. Competing for attention as also for votes, these slogans have galvanised the campaign, leading to several witty, creative, even brilliant moves, counter-moves, and exchanges. All of which add to the zest, spice, and savour of Indian elections, making them unlike any other on the planet. Of these, perhaps none has captured the public imagination as much as the “chowkidar” vs “chor” slanging match that’s still playing itself out over mainstream and social media.

At its heart are two slogans. The one that started the clash was coined by the main opposition party, the Congress: “Chowkidar Chor Hai”— the guard or gatekeeper is the thief. Clearly directed at the Prime Minister, the slogan meant not only to cast aspersions on Narendra Modi’s reputation as an honest and clean leader, but also to call into question the anti-corruption image of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The latter’s counter, “Main Bhi Chowkidar”— I too am a guard — resulted in many party members, including senior ministers, not to mention millions of Modi supporters, changing their social media handles to include the prefatory self-appellation “Chowkidar.” The hashtag has reportedly been tweeted over 20 lakh times. Many a “convertee” or “me-too” Chowkidar also received personalised congratulatory and thank you messages from the Prime Minister’s handle itself, which they promptly went on to proudly blazon and recirculate.

So, who is winning this battle of slogans, media catchphrases, and clickbaits? This was a closely-contested skirmish, with the Congress starting with the upper hand, but now the tide clearly seems to have turned. There is a simple reason for this. Not only is the BJP media cell more active and aggressive, but so is the PM himself. Modi has the uncanny knack of turning around everything that is thrown at him with a redoubled force so that it crashes back into the opposition like a boomerang. His political genius lies in his ability to connect spontaneously with his audience no matter whether they are poor, semi-literate, so-called “unwashed” masses or the top echelons of Lutyens Delhi and corporate czars.&nbsp;

No wonder, Modi made it a point to address a specifically targeted audience of some 25 lakh chowkidars or security guards via a radio speech. He made it a point to say he was sorry for the insult heaped upon them by the Congress: “I apologise to all chowkidars that some people, for their own interests, have been abusing chowkidars and saying chowkidar chor hai, raising questions about the integrity of the chowkidars of the nation.” Obviously, it was an attack on Rahul Gandhi for using that refrain against him. Modi added that the slogan was harmful to the whole country. He was right. Just imagine: If our security guards were really thieves, wouldn’t it spell a terrible security crisis for all of us? Wouldn’t it be quite detrimental therefore to call into question their devotion to duty or their honesty?

We know that the profession of security guards is one of our fastest growing. It is a respectable job, even if not highly paying. Requiring neither high skills, education levels nor, indeed, strenuous labour, it attracts a huge contingent of our unemployed rural workforce. By praising chowkidars all over the country, upholding their dignity and status, the PM was scoring a point over the opposition. He was also hitting out at Arvind Kejriwal, another opposition leader, who mocked Modi for promoting the job of a chowkidar over that of an engineer. Modi, by emphasising the dignity of labour, cleverly turned Kejriwal’s aspirational jibe against the Aam Aadmi (common person’s) Party.

In doing so, he was the garnering sympathy of neutral onlookers too. That is because “Main Bhi Chowkidar” extends the sphere of the responsibility of protection of the state from those in positions of power to the common citizenry. While “Chowkidar Chor Hai” is revealed, on closer analysis, not just to be negative, but demeaning, “Main Bhi Chowkidar,” arguably, shows solidarity with watchmen and guardians of the state.&nbsp;

Just prior to his speech to chowkidars, the PM added another feather to his cap. His sur-namesake, Nirav Modi, was jailed in London. The capture of the fugitive diamond merchant, wanted for defrauding Indian banks of a staggering two billion dollars, seemed to prove that the long arm of PM Modi as chowkidar extended outside India. Nirav in a British jail, with its different time zone, gave some credence to PM Modi’s “24x7 Chowkidar” boast. Milking the opportunity to his advantage, Modi concluded by saying, “No matter how much they insult us calling us chor, we don’t have to be afraid and we should embrace such insults like ornaments.”&nbsp;

Touche.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-main-bhi-chowkidar-vs-chowkidar-chor-hai-who-is-winning-2732122">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore.

In the perception battle ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, the Indian electorate has been inundated, rattled, one might even say bedazzled, by slogans galore. Competing for attention as also for votes, these slogans have galvanised the campaign, leading to several witty, creative, even brilliant moves, counter-moves, and exchanges. All of which add to the zest, spice, and savour of Indian elections, making them unlike any other on the planet. Of these, perhaps none has captured the public imagination as much as the “chowkidar” vs “chor” slanging match that’s still playing itself out over mainstream and social media. At its heart are two slogans. The one that started the clash was coined by the main opposition party, the Congress: “Chowkidar Chor Hai”— the guard or gatekeeper is the thief. Clearly directed at the Prime Minister, the slogan meant not only to cast aspersions on Narendra Modi’s reputation as an honest and clean leader, but also to call into question the anti-corruption image of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The latter’s counter, “Main Bhi Chowkidar”— I too am a guard — resulted in many party members, including senior ministers, not to mention millions of Modi supporters, changing their social media handles to include the prefatory self-appellation “Chowkidar.” The hashtag has reportedly been tweeted over 20 lakh times. Many a “convertee” or “me-too” Chowkidar also received personalised congratulatory and thank you messages from the Prime Minister’s handle itself, which they promptly went on to proudly blazon and recirculate. So, who is winning this battle of slogans, media catchphrases, and clickbaits? This was a closely-contested skirmish, with the Congress starting with the upper hand, but now the tide clearly seems to have turned. There is a simple reason for this. Not only is the BJP media cell more active and aggressive, but so is the PM himself. Modi has the uncanny knack of turning around everything that is thrown at him with a redoubled force so that it crashes back into the opposition like a boomerang. His political genius lies in his ability to connect spontaneously with his audience no matter whether they are poor, semi-literate, so-called “unwashed” masses or the top echelons of Lutyens Delhi and corporate czars. No wonder, Modi made it a point to address a specifically targeted audience of some 25 lakh chowkidars or security guards via a radio speech. He made it a point to say he was sorry for the insult heaped upon them by the Congress: “I apologise to all chowkidars that some people, for their own interests, have been abusing chowkidars and saying chowkidar chor hai, raising questions about the integrity of the chowkidars of the nation.” Obviously, it was an attack on Rahul Gandhi for using that refrain against him. Modi added that the slogan was harmful to the whole country. He was right. Just imagine: If our security guards were really thieves, wouldn’t it spell a terrible security crisis for all of us? Wouldn’t it be quite detrimental therefore to call into question their devotion to duty or their honesty? We know that the profession of security guards is one of our fastest growing. It is a respectable job, even if not highly paying. Requiring neither high skills, education levels nor, indeed, strenuous labour, it attracts a huge contingent of our unemployed rural workforce. By praising chowkidars all over the country, upholding their dignity and status, the PM was scoring a point over the opposition. He was also hitting out at Arvind Kejriwal, another opposition leader, who mocked Modi for promoting the job of a chowkidar over that of an engineer. Modi, by emphasising the dignity of labour, cleverly turned Kejriwal’s aspirational jibe against the Aam Aadmi (common person’s) Party. In doing so, he was the garnering sympathy of neutral onlookers too. That is because “Main Bhi Chowkidar” extends the sphere of the responsibility of protection of the state from those in positions of power to the common citizenry. While “Chowkidar Chor Hai” is revealed, on closer analysis, not just to be negative, but demeaning, “Main Bhi Chowkidar,” arguably, shows solidarity with watchmen and guardians of the state. Just prior to his speech to chowkidars, the PM added another feather to his cap. His sur-namesake, Nirav Modi, was jailed in London. The capture of the fugitive diamond merchant, wanted for defrauding Indian banks of a staggering two billion dollars, seemed to prove that the long arm of PM Modi as chowkidar extended outside India. Nirav in a British jail, with its different time zone, gave some credence to PM Modi’s “24x7 Chowkidar” boast. Milking the opportunity to his advantage, Modi concluded by saying, “No matter how much they insult us calling us chor, we don’t have to be afraid and we should embrace such insults like ornaments.” Touche. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

'Main bhi chowkidar' vs 'Chowkidar chor hai': Who is winning?

Those who have been indulging in an abuse competition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi are now "insulting" the bravery of the security forces, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi alleged Saturday.

Naqvi's remarks came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi used Congress leader Sam Pitroda's remarks questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack to tear into the Opposition, saying they reflect the Congress' unwillingness to respond to forces of terror.

Reacting to it, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala had said, "Whether it is Pitroda or any individual, such comments may be their personal opinion and the Congress has nothing to do with them."

A "political competition" is going on every day to create confusion on nation's dignity and security through "fake and fabricated agenda", Naqvi told reporters here.

The people of the country will teach a lesson to this "gang" for insulting the bravery of the security forces of the country, he said.

Naqvi alleged that the Congress leaders are "mourning" the deaths of terrorists.

"Demanding proof, raising the question on the killing of terrorists -- what an amazing 'Pakistan-Congress Jugalbandi', he said.

The "gaali gang" that has been indulging in an "abuse competition" against Prime Minister Modi is now insulting bravery of the country's security forces, he alleged.

Those who have been indulging in an abuse competition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi are now "insulting" the bravery of the security forces, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi alleged Saturday.

Those who have been indulging in an abuse competition against Prime Minister Narendra Modi are now "insulting" the bravery of the security forces, Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi alleged Saturday. Naqvi's remarks came a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi used Congress leader Sam Pitroda's remarks questioning the government's aggressive action against Pakistan after the Pulwama terror attack to tear into the Opposition, saying they reflect the Congress' unwillingness to respond to forces of terror. Reacting to it, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala had said, "Whether it is Pitroda or any individual, such comments may be their personal opinion and the Congress has nothing to do with them." A "political competition" is going on every day to create confusion on nation's dignity and security through "fake and fabricated agenda", Naqvi told reporters here. The people of the country will teach a lesson to this "gang" for insulting the bravery of the security forces of the country, he said. Naqvi alleged that the Congress leaders are "mourning" the deaths of terrorists. "Demanding proof, raising the question on the killing of terrorists -- what an amazing 'Pakistan-Congress Jugalbandi', he said. The "gaali gang" that has been indulging in an "abuse competition" against Prime Minister Modi is now insulting bravery of the country's security forces, he alleged.

Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi: Those abusing PM Narendra Modi now insulting security forces

A day after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/watch-trailer-vivek-oberoi-as-a-young-narendra-modi-in-biopic-204672">trailer of ‘PM Narendra Modi’</a> biopic released, Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar tweeted the poster of the film and expressed his shock.&nbsp;

Javed Akhtar tweeted: “Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it."

Akhtar is seen mentioned in the poster, in fact, the list starts with his name.&nbsp;

See the poster here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it ! <a href="https://t.co/tIeg2vMpVG">pic.twitter.com/tIeg2vMpVG</a>
— Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) <a href="https://twitter.com/Javedakhtarjadu/status/1109064986729635841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, the trailer has been receiving a mixed response by the fans as people are divided over whether Vivek Oberoi who plays the current PM’s role in the film -- has been able to look the part or not.&nbsp;

On being cast for the role, Vivek in an interview said, "I consider Modiji as an inspiration. Modiji is one of those personalities... if he decides something, if he is clear with his vision, he doesn't fear to achieve his goal. It is very inspirational."

The film is directed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pm-narendra-modi-biopic-is-not-a-propaganda-film-says-director-omung-kumar-204903">Omung Kumar</a> and is slated to release on April 5.&nbsp;

A day after the trailer of ‘PM Narendra Modi’ biopic released, Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar tweeted the poster of the film and expressed his shock. Javed Akhtar tweeted: “Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film.

A day after the trailer of ‘PM Narendra Modi’ biopic released, Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar tweeted the poster of the film and expressed his shock. Javed Akhtar tweeted: “Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it." Akhtar is seen mentioned in the poster, in fact, the list starts with his name. See the poster here: Am shocked to find my name on the poster of this film. Have not written any songs for it ! pic.twitter.com/tIeg2vMpVG — Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) March 22, 2019 × Meanwhile, the trailer has been receiving a mixed response by the fans as people are divided over whether Vivek Oberoi who plays the current PM’s role in the film -- has been able to look the part or not. On being cast for the role, Vivek in an interview said, "I consider Modiji as an inspiration. Modiji is one of those personalities... if he decides something, if he is clear with his vision, he doesn't fear to achieve his goal. It is very inspirational." The film is directed by Omung Kumar and is slated to release on April 5.

Javed Akhtar denies writing songs for 'PM Narendra Modi' biopic, tweets 'shocked'

Indians must believe what the Armed forces say: PM Narendra Modi

PM Narendra Modi addresses gathering at National War Memorial inauguration

India will have its first national memorial dedicated to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice since 1947—The national war memorial in Delhi's India gate circle.&nbsp;

The memorial which will pay homage to 29542 soldiers, will be dedicated to the nation by Prime minister Narendra Modi on Monday evening.&nbsp;

Announcing the development a day ahead PM Modi in his monthly Mann Ki Baat said, "I do believe that for our countrymen a visit to the National War Memorial will be akin to a pilgrimage to a holy place. The National Soldiers’ Memorial is a symbol of the nation’s gratitude to those men who made the supreme sacrifice after we gained Independence."

This is the first national memorial since Independence. Till now there was no memorial at national level encompassing the sacrifices made by India's soldiers since 1947.

The only one was British built India gate which was completed in 1931 to commemorate world war one and third Anglo-Afghan War. January 1972 India added the Amar Jawan Jyoti after the 1971 India Pakistan war as a tribute to personnel killed in the action.

PM called on countrymen to visit the place in a manner as going to a pilgrimage.

He said, "I do believe that for our countrymen a visit to the National War Memorial will be akin to a pilgrimage to a holy place. This place stands testimony to a series of sacrifices of men who laid down their lives for the sake of their country, so that we could live so that the country could be safe &amp; secure, paving the way for development."

The demand for a national memorial has been 6 decades old but got the cabinet approval in October 2015 under the Modi government. The construction for the memorial which is situated in India Gate circle in Delhi started in February 2018. Built at the cost of Rs 176 crore it spans 40 acres and has been built by combining 2 lawns at the India Gate circle.

<img alt="National war memorial" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c10b98b1-1c1c-403e-ab9b-968dd9d5d792" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202019-02-24%20at%204.20.31%20PM%20%282%29.jpeg" />

Structure

The national war memorial consists of four concentric circles which depict the journey of a soldier from coming into being, culminating in his martyrdom.&nbsp;

At the centre of the circles is an obelisk where the eternal flame is present. The first circle is the Amar Chakra around the obelisk, the second is Veerta chakra which depicts courage and bravery of the Indian soldiers. It is followed by Tyag Chakara which stands for the sacrifice of soldiers and last is Rakshak Chakra which depicts the spirit of security.

The complex is partly subterranean since according to rules the architecture should be such that it should not disturb nearby vistas. It is interesting to know that 22 trees were removed to develop the area for which 715 trees were planted.

A Param Vir Yodha Sthal is located near which have busts of 21 war heroes who got Param Vir Chakra.

Brick with name!&nbsp;

The Tyag and Rakshak chakra are made up of 16 walls with granite bricks. Each brick has a name of a soldier, his ID, regiment and rank. An app will be available once its dedicated to the nation by which one can type the name of the solider and find the location of the brick. A provision also exists by which new names can be added. For this periodically names will be compiled.

Daily retreat ceremony

The memorial will also have a retreat ceremony daily, which is expected to become a major attraction. Change of guard will take place every Sunday at 9.50 am with a ceremonial wreath laying to commemorate the important days. Though it will be open daily, there are timing, 9 am to 7.30 pm in summers while 9 am to 6.30 pm in winters.

India will have its first national memorial dedicated to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice since 1947—The national war memorial in Delhi's India gate circle.

India will have its first national memorial dedicated to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice since 1947—The national war memorial in Delhi's India gate circle. The memorial which will pay homage to 29542 soldiers, will be dedicated to the nation by Prime minister Narendra Modi on Monday evening. Announcing the development a day ahead PM Modi in his monthly Mann Ki Baat said, "I do believe that for our countrymen a visit to the National War Memorial will be akin to a pilgrimage to a holy place. The National Soldiers’ Memorial is a symbol of the nation’s gratitude to those men who made the supreme sacrifice after we gained Independence." This is the first national memorial since Independence. Till now there was no memorial at national level encompassing the sacrifices made by India's soldiers since 1947. The only one was British built India gate which was completed in 1931 to commemorate world war one and third Anglo-Afghan War. January 1972 India added the Amar Jawan Jyoti after the 1971 India Pakistan war as a tribute to personnel killed in the action. PM called on countrymen to visit the place in a manner as going to a pilgrimage. He said, "I do believe that for our countrymen a visit to the National War Memorial will be akin to a pilgrimage to a holy place. This place stands testimony to a series of sacrifices of men who laid down their lives for the sake of their country, so that we could live so that the country could be safe & secure, paving the way for development." The demand for a national memorial has been 6 decades old but got the cabinet approval in October 2015 under the Modi government. The construction for the memorial which is situated in India Gate circle in Delhi started in February 2018. Built at the cost of Rs 176 crore it spans 40 acres and has been built by combining 2 lawns at the India Gate circle. Structure The national war memorial consists of four concentric circles which depict the journey of a soldier from coming into being, culminating in his martyrdom. At the centre of the circles is an obelisk where the eternal flame is present. The first circle is the Amar Chakra around the obelisk, the second is Veerta chakra which depicts courage and bravery of the Indian soldiers. It is followed by Tyag Chakara which stands for the sacrifice of soldiers and last is Rakshak Chakra which depicts the spirit of security. The complex is partly subterranean since according to rules the architecture should be such that it should not disturb nearby vistas. It is interesting to know that 22 trees were removed to develop the area for which 715 trees were planted. A Param Vir Yodha Sthal is located near which have busts of 21 war heroes who got Param Vir Chakra. Brick with name! The Tyag and Rakshak chakra are made up of 16 walls with granite bricks. Each brick has a name of a soldier, his ID, regiment and rank. An app will be available once its dedicated to the nation by which one can type the name of the solider and find the location of the brick. A provision also exists by which new names can be added. For this periodically names will be compiled. Daily retreat ceremony The memorial will also have a retreat ceremony daily, which is expected to become a major attraction. Change of guard will take place every Sunday at 9.50 am with a ceremonial wreath laying to commemorate the important days. Though it will be open daily, there are timing, 9 am to 7.30 pm in summers while 9 am to 6.30 pm in winters.

India to get its first national war memorial; PM Narendra Modi calls it a 'place of pilgrimage'

PM Narendra Modi to receive Seoul Peace Prize

PM Narendra Modi's last Lok Sabha speech before general election

Internet services on mobile devices were snapped here on Sunday as a precautionary measure even as tight security arrangements have been put in place for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir.

Internet services were snapped in the early hours of Sunday by authorities as part of efforts to ensure that the Prime Minister's visit passes off smoothly, officials said.

They said security personnel have been deployed across the valley in large numbers for maintaining law and order.

Separatists groups have called for a complete shutdown in the valley to protest against Modi's visit.

Several separatist leaders including Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and former MLA Langate Sheikh Abdul Rasheed have been placed under house arrest since Saturday.

Normal life in the valley remained affected due to the strike called by separatists. All shops and business establishments remained closed while public transport was off the roads.

The officials said there were no reports of any untoward incident reported from anywhere in the valley so far.

Internet services on mobile devices were snapped here on Sunday as a precautionary measure even as tight security arrangements have been put in place for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir.

Internet services on mobile devices were snapped here on Sunday as a precautionary measure even as tight security arrangements have been put in place for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir. Internet services were snapped in the early hours of Sunday by authorities as part of efforts to ensure that the Prime Minister's visit passes off smoothly, officials said. They said security personnel have been deployed across the valley in large numbers for maintaining law and order. Separatists groups have called for a complete shutdown in the valley to protest against Modi's visit. Several separatist leaders including Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and former MLA Langate Sheikh Abdul Rasheed have been placed under house arrest since Saturday. Normal life in the valley remained affected due to the strike called by separatists. All shops and business establishments remained closed while public transport was off the roads. The officials said there were no reports of any untoward incident reported from anywhere in the valley so far.

Internet services snapped in Srinagar ahead of PM Narendra Modi's visit

Bollywood star Anil Kapoor opened up about his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the trailer launch event of his latest film 'Total Dhamaal' on Monday in Mumbai.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anil-kapoor-meets-pm-modi-says-i-stand-humbled-and-inspired-190908">Kapoor said his meeting with the PM </a>was destined to happen and it was inspirational for him to meet someone who has been working hard for the country.&nbsp;

"It was absolutely wonderful meeting Modiji. I wanted to meet him for the last couple of years. But it never happened. I think some meetings are destined. It was my privilege and honour to meet him. He is an&nbsp;inspirational figure and I do not think I have seen an individual who is working so hard for the nation."

While Kapoor was all praises for the PM, he steered clear of answering questions about the upcoming elections. Kapoor was asked whether he thought Modi should get another term at the office and the actor said, "Obviously that is for all of us to see what happens in the elections. But this is not a platform where we can discuss politics."

PM Modi has met and interacted with a spate of Bollywood stars in recent times. A <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ranveer-singh-vicky-kaushal-alia-bhatt-and-others-feature-in-selfie-of-the-year-with-pm-modi-189416">14 member delegation of young Bollywood stars</a> had recently met the PM in New Delhi and discussed how cinema could help in nation building. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/when-pm-modi-indulged-in-some-twitter-conversations-with-bollywood-stars-191728">Modi also interacted with Bollywood stalwarts</a> like Asha Bhosle, Aamir Khan, Manoj Kumar at the opening ceremony of cinema museum in Mumbai on Saturday.&nbsp;

Bollywood star Anil Kapoor opened up about his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the trailer launch event of his latest film 'Total Dhamaal' on Monday in Mumbai.

Bollywood star Anil Kapoor opened up about his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the trailer launch event of his latest film 'Total Dhamaal' on Monday in Mumbai. Kapoor said his meeting with the PM was destined to happen and it was inspirational for him to meet someone who has been working hard for the country. "It was absolutely wonderful meeting Modiji. I wanted to meet him for the last couple of years. But it never happened. I think some meetings are destined. It was my privilege and honour to meet him. He is an inspirational figure and I do not think I have seen an individual who is working so hard for the nation." While Kapoor was all praises for the PM, he steered clear of answering questions about the upcoming elections. Kapoor was asked whether he thought Modi should get another term at the office and the actor said, "Obviously that is for all of us to see what happens in the elections. But this is not a platform where we can discuss politics." PM Modi has met and interacted with a spate of Bollywood stars in recent times. A 14 member delegation of young Bollywood stars had recently met the PM in New Delhi and discussed how cinema could help in nation building. Modi also interacted with Bollywood stalwarts like Asha Bhosle, Aamir Khan, Manoj Kumar at the opening ceremony of cinema museum in Mumbai on Saturday.

Anil Kapoor on meeting PM Modi: Never seen anyone work so hard for the nation

Just two days after Supreme Court reinstated him as CBI director, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/alok-verma-resumes-office-after-77-day-forced-leave-189139">Alok Verma</a> was today removed as chief of the investigative agency by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-director-alok-verma-case-pm-led-panel-scheduled-wednesday-night-to-meet-and-decide-189233">PM Modi-led panel</a>.

Alok Verma, a 1979-batch AGMUT-cadre IPS officer, has been removed from the high-profile post on the charges of corruption and dereliction of duty, making him the first chief in the history of the agency to face such action, officials said.

The charge of the CBI has been given to Additional Director M Nageshwar Rao, a government order issued on Thursday evening said.

There were eight counts of charges against him in the CVC report presented before the Committee also comprising Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and Justice A K Sikri, appointed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as his nominee.

The decision was taken by a majority with Kharge opposing the move, officials said.

Kharge has expressed his dissent to the decision which was taken by a majority of 2:1.

The court on Tuesday while reinstating Verma, however, had made it clear that he will desist from taking any major policy decision till a high-powered committee considers the issue of "divestment of power and authority".&nbsp;

Verma's two-year tenure as CBI director is scheduled to end&nbsp;on January 31.

The CBI chief and his deputy Special Director Rakesh Asthana were sent on the forced leave over two months ago to stop the "kilkenny cat fight" between them. They had accused each other of corruption.

Verma, who resumed office on Wednesday, had revoked most of the transfers done by M Nageshwar Rao, who was appointed as the interim CBI chief in his absence.

(With inputs from PTI)

Just two days after Supreme Court reinstated him as CBI director, Alok Verma was today removed as chief of the investigative agency by PM Modi-led panel. Alok Verma, a 1979-batch AGMUT-cadre IPS officer, has been removed from the high-profile post on the charges of corruption and dereliction of duty, making him the first chief in the history of the agency to face such action, officials said.

Just two days after Supreme Court reinstated him as CBI director, Alok Verma was today removed as chief of the investigative agency by PM Modi-led panel. Alok Verma, a 1979-batch AGMUT-cadre IPS officer, has been removed from the high-profile post on the charges of corruption and dereliction of duty, making him the first chief in the history of the agency to face such action, officials said. The charge of the CBI has been given to Additional Director M Nageshwar Rao, a government order issued on Thursday evening said. There were eight counts of charges against him in the CVC report presented before the Committee also comprising Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge and Justice A K Sikri, appointed by Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi as his nominee. The decision was taken by a majority with Kharge opposing the move, officials said. Kharge has expressed his dissent to the decision which was taken by a majority of 2:1. The court on Tuesday while reinstating Verma, however, had made it clear that he will desist from taking any major policy decision till a high-powered committee considers the issue of "divestment of power and authority". Verma's two-year tenure as CBI director is scheduled to end on January 31. The CBI chief and his deputy Special Director Rakesh Asthana were sent on the forced leave over two months ago to stop the "kilkenny cat fight" between them. They had accused each other of corruption. Verma, who resumed office on Wednesday, had revoked most of the transfers done by M Nageshwar Rao, who was appointed as the interim CBI chief in his absence. (With inputs from PTI)

CBI chief Alok Verma removed by PM Narendra Modi-led panel on charges of corruption and dereliction of duty

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday accused the Congress of protecting those involved in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, saying such leaders were even rewarded with the chief minister’s post. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
The jibe, apparently directed at Kamal Nath, the new Madhya Pradesh chief minister, came during a rally where he also charged the opposition party of “deceiving” farmers with loan waiver promises. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Kamal Nath has in the past denied such allegations over the riots, saying he had nothing to do with them. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
The planned corridor between a gurdwara here and a Sikh shrine in Kartarpur, just a few kilometres across the border with Pakistan, also figured in the address. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Modi said the entire country had waited for justice for the past 35 years and wanted Congress leaders to be punished for it. “Even today, this demand is there,” he said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
He alleged that “files” on such culprits were kept under wraps on the suggestion of “one family”, an apparent reference to the Gandhis. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
In an indirect reference to the recent conviction of Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in one riot-related case, Modi added, “The NDA government pulled out such files, set up the SIT (special investigation team) and now the results are before you.” 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Modi also attacked the Congress for charging him with corruption in the Rafale deal with France for 36 military aircraft, saying the party was “spreading lies” to weaken the defence forces. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
He said the country needed to be wary of the Congress, claiming its history had been the glorification of “one family”. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
He said it was made up of people, “who even today oppose the raising of Vande Mataram and Bharat Mata ki Jai slogans, whose history is of the massacre of thousands of Sikhs in cold blood, and those who even today reward the riot accused with the chair of the chief minister”. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Modi accused the national leaders at the time of Partition of failing to ensure that Kartarpur, where the founder of Sikhism spent his final years, did not go to Pakistan. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
For seven decades, devotees could get a glimpse of the historic gurdwara only through binoculars, he said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
He said the NDA government took the “historic decision” to build the Kartarpur corridor, which will link Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur to Kartarpur Sahib. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Without taking names, Modi took a dig at Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu, who went against Chief Minister Amarinder Singh’s advice and travelled to Pakistan for the groundbreaking ceremony of the planned corridor. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
He said the Congress leaders gave an “opportunity” to Pakistan through that trip. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
He hit out at the Congress for playing politics of “lies and deceit” on farm loan waivers. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
“The Congress fooled the people for decades with the slogan of ‘Garibi Hatao’ (remove poverty) and now it is deceiving the country in the name of loan waivers,” he said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
The prime minister claimed this happened in Punjab as well, saying the Congress government in the state had waived only a small portion of the loans. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Modi made similar claims about the Congress promises before the 2009 Lok Sabha elections and the recent assembly elections in Karnataka. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Arrest warrants are being issued against farmers for not paying back loans in Karnataka, he claimed. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
He said while the Congress governments had delayed the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission report, the BJP government at the Centre had implemented its recommendations on minimum support prices (MSP). 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Those who failed to find a solution to the farmers’ woes for decades and kept delaying the decision on MSP, are now again throwing dust in the eyes of farmers with their false promises,” he said. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal and Union minister Harsimrat Kaur attended the rally, held by the BJP and the SAD to thank the prime minister for the development of the region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday accused the Congress of protecting those involved in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, saying such leaders were even rewarded with the chief minister’s post.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday accused the Congress of protecting those involved in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, saying such leaders were even rewarded with the chief minister’s post. The jibe, apparently directed at Kamal Nath, the new Madhya Pradesh chief minister, came during a rally where he also charged the opposition party of “deceiving” farmers with loan waiver promises. Kamal Nath has in the past denied such allegations over the riots, saying he had nothing to do with them. The planned corridor between a gurdwara here and a Sikh shrine in Kartarpur, just a few kilometres across the border with Pakistan, also figured in the address. Modi said the entire country had waited for justice for the past 35 years and wanted Congress leaders to be punished for it. “Even today, this demand is there,” he said. He alleged that “files” on such culprits were kept under wraps on the suggestion of “one family”, an apparent reference to the Gandhis. In an indirect reference to the recent conviction of Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in one riot-related case, Modi added, “The NDA government pulled out such files, set up the SIT (special investigation team) and now the results are before you.” Modi also attacked the Congress for charging him with corruption in the Rafale deal with France for 36 military aircraft, saying the party was “spreading lies” to weaken the defence forces. He said the country needed to be wary of the Congress, claiming its history had been the glorification of “one family”. He said it was made up of people, “who even today oppose the raising of Vande Mataram and Bharat Mata ki Jai slogans, whose history is of the massacre of thousands of Sikhs in cold blood, and those who even today reward the riot accused with the chair of the chief minister”. Modi accused the national leaders at the time of Partition of failing to ensure that Kartarpur, where the founder of Sikhism spent his final years, did not go to Pakistan. For seven decades, devotees could get a glimpse of the historic gurdwara only through binoculars, he said. He said the NDA government took the “historic decision” to build the Kartarpur corridor, which will link Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur to Kartarpur Sahib. Without taking names, Modi took a dig at Punjab minister Navjot Singh Sidhu, who went against Chief Minister Amarinder Singh’s advice and travelled to Pakistan for the groundbreaking ceremony of the planned corridor. He said the Congress leaders gave an “opportunity” to Pakistan through that trip. He hit out at the Congress for playing politics of “lies and deceit” on farm loan waivers. “The Congress fooled the people for decades with the slogan of ‘Garibi Hatao’ (remove poverty) and now it is deceiving the country in the name of loan waivers,” he said. The prime minister claimed this happened in Punjab as well, saying the Congress government in the state had waived only a small portion of the loans. Modi made similar claims about the Congress promises before the 2009 Lok Sabha elections and the recent assembly elections in Karnataka. Arrest warrants are being issued against farmers for not paying back loans in Karnataka, he claimed. He said while the Congress governments had delayed the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission report, the BJP government at the Centre had implemented its recommendations on minimum support prices (MSP). “Those who failed to find a solution to the farmers’ woes for decades and kept delaying the decision on MSP, are now again throwing dust in the eyes of farmers with their false promises,” he said. Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal and Union minister Harsimrat Kaur attended the rally, held by the BJP and the SAD to thank the prime minister for the development of the region.

PM Narendra Modi accuses Congress of protecting 1984 riot culprits, takes jibe at Kamal Nath

Stockholm Syndrome or Spiral of Silence?

Right after demonetisation, we started a series of tracking polls to gauge the public sentiment around it. First things first: while in November 2016, as many as 85 per cent Indians believed that the troubles they faced during demonetisation were absolutely worth the fight against black money. As of today, that number has come crashing down to just 63 per cent. That's a huge drop of 22 per cent in support for the drastic move within a gap of 24 months.

While this number could fancy any Modi-baiter to say that the public has finally said what it wanted to say, it is equally important to note that even after so much of hardship and shine coming off the (mis)adventure, two out of three Indians still support demonetisation as of today. Yes, this is down from four out of five in 2016, but 2 out of 3 is not small a number. Certainly, in a FPTP democracy where Parties tend to get a majority with just over 33 per cent votes this figure matters.

However, this statement becomes interesting in light of 43 per cent Indians considering it a personal setback. Why does demonetisation still enjoy public support of a two-third majority despite negatively impacting more people? Seems PM Modi has hijacked the narrative on the debate on 'national interest'.

If that is true, one probability can be that a large part of the populace is struck with Stockholm Syndrome. They are in awe of the government taking such a drastic measure and pulling it off in no time. Hence, they seek to be on the side of their tormentor and sympathize with the mission of cash eradication! 
 
Demonetisation as a policy move is akin to major surgery of the body - it has beneficial impacts and side-effects that become apparent over time. When this policy was implemented in 2016, there were two questions lingering in public discourse: 
 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a) What will be the actual impacts of this move on nation, in the long run? 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b) How will people perceive the move today and tomorrow, given that this move was bound to generate some pain?

At Cvoter, we have tracked the public sentiment on this important issue since 2016 and have concluded the 7th wave of demonetisation tracker. 
 
The other probability is of stigmatisation of criticism. Prime Minister Modi in his rallies has repeatedly stated that "those hurt the most, are crying out the loudest". In other words, the critics of the policy are the ones who were hoarding the money in cash and now they were trying to vent their frustration. Thus, people could go in a spiral of silence and give socially acceptable replies when asked survey questions. If it is the former than electoral advantage will lie with the NDA but if it is the latter case, then it is advantage opposition.

Time has tempered the support and positive sentiment enjoyed by demonetisation. Demographic groups like middle-aged citizens, rural populace and poor have begun to wonder about the move. Although net sentiment among the population is positive, the shrinkage of support for demonetisation is consistent and an ongoing trend.

To answer the questions asked above:

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;a) People largely view demonetisation as a positive move and support its implementation, however, there is a distinct decline in the number of people doing so.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;b) Increasing number of citizens have begun to view demonetisation as a negative event. Especially the fence sitters have begun to migrate towards the negative territory. In other words, former supporters are turning into critics and former neutrals are also turning critical regarding demonetisation.&nbsp; 
 
The Demonetisation Tracker details stand unpacked as follows: 
 
Demonetisation at a personal level

<img alt="Demonetisation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7279bfaf-f9d7-4bb9-a20c-86e784c95da5" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Demonetisation1_0.jpg" />

Treating of demonetisation as a setback at personal level, the support for demonetisation has now fallen to its lowest level of 56.5 per cent in wave 7 after an all-time high of 76 per cent in wave 2. The positive sentiment for demonetisation hovered in the early 70s through wave 3-5. From wave 6 onwards there has been a stark decline in support for demonetisation. Perhaps indicative of headwinds in the local economy or a brewing unemployment crisis, post-facto people have begun to increasingly identify demonetisation as a personal setback of sorts. Semi-urban population and middle-aged citizens are two demographic segments who are more negative in their sentiments towards demonetisation.

Worth it?

<img alt="Demonetisation2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3d098afa-cc07-499d-893f-8c6d33323a83" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetisation2.jpg" />

An exercise like demonetisation was fraught with troubles for common citizens. It was the goodwill of the Union government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi that carried the day in 2016. Today, the net sentiment of demonetisation being worth it has touched an all-time low of 30%. Meaning, the difference between the yay-sayers and nay-sayers is down to just 30 per cent in wave 7, this figure was 82 per cent in wave 2. Somewhere, we have seen more and more people defecting from the yay camp to nay camp between wave 2 and wave 7. Senior citizens are still mostly in favour of the policy at a net sentiment of 54 per cent while middle-aged citizens are the least supportive, with a net sentiment of 17 per cent. Also, worth mentioning are the middle-income group and rural citizens with respective net sentiments of 22 per cent and 26.7 per cent. These voters are high on priority for PM Modi and disaffection among them should be a cause of concern.

 
Was the implementation sound? 
 
<img alt="Demonetisation 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="23ea565a-e02d-4825-8f21-aafeb1dee673" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetisation3.jpg" />

While economists and intelligentsia were in a different mood with respect to the implementation of demonetisation in 2016, they were pushed back by a solid 85 per cent of Indians who believed that demonetisation was implemented in a satisfactory to good manner. Today, the number of those with positive sentiment has not exactly crashed in wave 7, a 66 per cent positive sentiment still constitutes a significant decline. In other words, from more than 4 out of 5 Indian finding the implementation satisfactory, today only 2 out of 3 support its implementation mechanism. Freshers (those below 35 years of age) are more satisfied with the implementation at 72 per cent approval while higher income group is least positive and understandably so.

How about a rollback? 
 
<img alt="Demonetisation 4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5671d419-1e84-4541-acea-a17b3d777479" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetisation-4.jpg" />

India has a history of governments backtracking on unpopular policies or reforms, therefore demonetisation was considered fit for a rollback by some sections. The support for a rollback has increased between 2016-18, although the majority still supports no-rollback or backtracking. Nearly 63 per cent respondents support staying firm on the policy while 33% supported a rollback either in practice or principle. The support for staying firm is down from 84 per cent in 2016 a significant decline. Major declines have happened in the middle-aged and lower income group demographics. 
 
Who was hurt more, rich or the poor? 
 
<img alt="Demonetisation 5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6f7e3bba-9acc-49d7-9273-c9673ad26aa0" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetisation_5.jpg" />

Politically, demonetisation was a safe policy as it hurt the proverbial 'haves' of a corrupt system. Surprisingly, while the perception of demonetisation has shifted across the board on this metric, the perception of demonetisation has remained largely stable. 48.5 per cent believe that demonetisation has hit the poor more, while 35.5% believe that rich were hurt more. Despite apparent stability, it is worth noting that poor continue to believe that they sacrificed more for implementation of this policy measure. Therefore, they may seek more political entitlement and an absence of such measure may trigger discontent against the government. 
 
Does living through demonetisation change your views? 
 
<img alt="Demonetisation 6" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="456bc763-bfb6-4012-baa4-81011ea3ea22" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetisation_6.jpg" />

Fewer respondents (44 per cent) supported demonetisation after having experienced it in 2016. In 2018, 59 per cent people supported demonetisation having experienced the aftermath. However, the people who oppose it and intend to punish BJP by voting against it have risen from 13 per cent in 2016 to 20 per cent in 2018. Politically, this signifies a deep and rising polarisation over the question of demonetisation - supporters and detractors are firming up their positions. 
 
The aftershocks of demonetisation? 
 
<img alt="Demonetisation 7" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="62df15d9-c7dd-4475-8884-afdef171133f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetisation7.jpg" />

A majority 51 per cent people say that there is no persistent problem post-demonetisation in 2018, a huge rise when compared to 11 per cent in 2016. This is a heartening statistic for the government as it signifies that there are fewer long-term implications of demonetisation on citizens and some of the anger on ground is indicative of the memory of instantaneous events in 2016. The only statistic of concern is 18.5 per cent respondents saying that their problems have increased - this is a rise over the 12.3 per cent in 2016.&nbsp; 
 
Prime Minister's popularity? 
 
<img alt="Demonetisation 8" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a761be7-a7f2-40ab-bf50-60ef90549440" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetisation8.jpg" />

Demonetisation left 17 per cent of the population in limbo and they professed no opinion in 2016 on its impact on PM Modi's popularity. Worryingly for the PM, roughly 13 per cent of these have migrated to the decreased popularity column by 2018. The column for respondents who thought this might result in increased popularity has undergone a mild decline from 52 per cent in 2016 to 49 per cent in 2018. Although PM Modi's stock remains high, the high conversion rate of neutrals to critics is a cause of concern. Perhaps the loyalists have stuck it out with the PM but the fence sitters are choosing otherwise. 
 
Sentiment on economy? 
 
<img alt="Demonetisation 9" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bec9ec54-b816-4d11-8e18-7bd4313bf773" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetsaition9.jpg" />

The dominant and almost-majority sentiment of respondents in 2016 predicted a recovery after short-term blip for the economy. 49&nbsp; per cent respondents averred that economy may dip for a while and then recover strongly. This sentiment has crashed down to 29.5 per cent now, whereas the bearish sentiment of a long-lasting recession has strengthened from 12 per cent in 2016 to 28 per cent in 2018. Interestingly, the bullish sentiment has also strengthened from 19.5 per cent in 2016 to 29 per cent in 2018. This is yet another indicator of the deep vertical divide that come to occupy Indian polity in all matters of national discourse. 
 
Conclusion: Good idea or bad idea? 
 
<img alt="Demonetisation 10" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4102bc7f-4e1b-44c1-9fd0-261fbb86a4f0" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/demonetisation-10.jpg" />

In 2016, 27 per cent respondents thought that demonetisation was a good step but poorly implemented. This figure declined to 17 per cent by 2018 and most of the migration of opinion occurred towards the option of "bad step which is poorly implemented". The respondents who believed in it rose from 5 per cent in 2016 to 28.5 per cent in 2018, this indicates yet again the trend of fence sitters migrating towards the critics' category. The supporters of the demonetisation in toto declined from 66 per cent in 2016 to 51 per cent in 2018. In other words, demonetisation has lost supporters and managed to drive the fence sitters away, something somewhere has not clicked with sections of society. 
 
Although the net sentiment continues to be positive, the presence of pain in politically significant sections of society is undeniable and salient. Whether that will the have mild or huge impact on upcoming Lok Sabha election 2019 is a matter of conjecture.

(This article was originally published on The <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/63-of-indians-still-support-demonetisation-but-that-number-has-fallen-2163127.html">Zeenews</a>. Read the original article)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Stockholm Syndrome or Spiral of Silence? Right after demonetisation, we started a series of tracking polls to gauge the public sentiment around it. First things first: while in November 2016, as many as 85 per cent Indians believed that the troubles they faced during demonetisation were absolutely worth the fight against black money.

Stockholm Syndrome or Spiral of Silence? Right after demonetisation, we started a series of tracking polls to gauge the public sentiment around it. First things first: while in November 2016, as many as 85 per cent Indians believed that the troubles they faced during demonetisation were absolutely worth the fight against black money. As of today, that number has come crashing down to just 63 per cent. That's a huge drop of 22 per cent in support for the drastic move within a gap of 24 months. While this number could fancy any Modi-baiter to say that the public has finally said what it wanted to say, it is equally important to note that even after so much of hardship and shine coming off the (mis)adventure, two out of three Indians still support demonetisation as of today. Yes, this is down from four out of five in 2016, but 2 out of 3 is not small a number. Certainly, in a FPTP democracy where Parties tend to get a majority with just over 33 per cent votes this figure matters. However, this statement becomes interesting in light of 43 per cent Indians considering it a personal setback. Why does demonetisation still enjoy public support of a two-third majority despite negatively impacting more people? Seems PM Modi has hijacked the narrative on the debate on 'national interest'. If that is true, one probability can be that a large part of the populace is struck with Stockholm Syndrome. They are in awe of the government taking such a drastic measure and pulling it off in no time. Hence, they seek to be on the side of their tormentor and sympathize with the mission of cash eradication! Demonetisation as a policy move is akin to major surgery of the body - it has beneficial impacts and side-effects that become apparent over time. When this policy was implemented in 2016, there were two questions lingering in public discourse: a) What will be the actual impacts of this move on nation, in the long run? b) How will people perceive the move today and tomorrow, given that this move was bound to generate some pain? At Cvoter, we have tracked the public sentiment on this important issue since 2016 and have concluded the 7th wave of demonetisation tracker. The other probability is of stigmatisation of criticism. Prime Minister Modi in his rallies has repeatedly stated that "those hurt the most, are crying out the loudest". In other words, the critics of the policy are the ones who were hoarding the money in cash and now they were trying to vent their frustration. Thus, people could go in a spiral of silence and give socially acceptable replies when asked survey questions. If it is the former than electoral advantage will lie with the NDA but if it is the latter case, then it is advantage opposition. Time has tempered the support and positive sentiment enjoyed by demonetisation. Demographic groups like middle-aged citizens, rural populace and poor have begun to wonder about the move. Although net sentiment among the population is positive, the shrinkage of support for demonetisation is consistent and an ongoing trend. To answer the questions asked above: a) People largely view demonetisation as a positive move and support its implementation, however, there is a distinct decline in the number of people doing so. b) Increasing number of citizens have begun to view demonetisation as a negative event. Especially the fence sitters have begun to migrate towards the negative territory. In other words, former supporters are turning into critics and former neutrals are also turning critical regarding demonetisation. The Demonetisation Tracker details stand unpacked as follows: Demonetisation at a personal level Treating of demonetisation as a setback at personal level, the support for demonetisation has now fallen to its lowest level of 56.5 per cent in wave 7 after an all-time high of 76 per cent in wave 2. The positive sentiment for demonetisation hovered in the early 70s through wave 3-5. From wave 6 onwards there has been a stark decline in support for demonetisation. Perhaps indicative of headwinds in the local economy or a brewing unemployment crisis, post-facto people have begun to increasingly identify demonetisation as a personal setback of sorts. Semi-urban population and middle-aged citizens are two demographic segments who are more negative in their sentiments towards demonetisation. Worth it? An exercise like demonetisation was fraught with troubles for common citizens. It was the goodwill of the Union government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi that carried the day in 2016. Today, the net sentiment of demonetisation being worth it has touched an all-time low of 30%. Meaning, the difference between the yay-sayers and nay-sayers is down to just 30 per cent in wave 7, this figure was 82 per cent in wave 2. Somewhere, we have seen more and more people defecting from the yay camp to nay camp between wave 2 and wave 7. Senior citizens are still mostly in favour of the policy at a net sentiment of 54 per cent while middle-aged citizens are the least supportive, with a net sentiment of 17 per cent. Also, worth mentioning are the middle-income group and rural citizens with respective net sentiments of 22 per cent and 26.7 per cent. These voters are high on priority for PM Modi and disaffection among them should be a cause of concern. Was the implementation sound? While economists and intelligentsia were in a different mood with respect to the implementation of demonetisation in 2016, they were pushed back by a solid 85 per cent of Indians who believed that demonetisation was implemented in a satisfactory to good manner. Today, the number of those with positive sentiment has not exactly crashed in wave 7, a 66 per cent positive sentiment still constitutes a significant decline. In other words, from more than 4 out of 5 Indian finding the implementation satisfactory, today only 2 out of 3 support its implementation mechanism. Freshers (those below 35 years of age) are more satisfied with the implementation at 72 per cent approval while higher income group is least positive and understandably so. How about a rollback? India has a history of governments backtracking on unpopular policies or reforms, therefore demonetisation was considered fit for a rollback by some sections. The support for a rollback has increased between 2016-18, although the majority still supports no-rollback or backtracking. Nearly 63 per cent respondents support staying firm on the policy while 33% supported a rollback either in practice or principle. The support for staying firm is down from 84 per cent in 2016 a significant decline. Major declines have happened in the middle-aged and lower income group demographics. Who was hurt more, rich or the poor? Politically, demonetisation was a safe policy as it hurt the proverbial 'haves' of a corrupt system. Surprisingly, while the perception of demonetisation has shifted across the board on this metric, the perception of demonetisation has remained largely stable. 48.5 per cent believe that demonetisation has hit the poor more, while 35.5% believe that rich were hurt more. Despite apparent stability, it is worth noting that poor continue to believe that they sacrificed more for implementation of this policy measure. Therefore, they may seek more political entitlement and an absence of such measure may trigger discontent against the government. Does living through demonetisation change your views? Fewer respondents (44 per cent) supported demonetisation after having experienced it in 2016. In 2018, 59 per cent people supported demonetisation having experienced the aftermath. However, the people who oppose it and intend to punish BJP by voting against it have risen from 13 per cent in 2016 to 20 per cent in 2018. Politically, this signifies a deep and rising polarisation over the question of demonetisation - supporters and detractors are firming up their positions. The aftershocks of demonetisation? A majority 51 per cent people say that there is no persistent problem post-demonetisation in 2018, a huge rise when compared to 11 per cent in 2016. This is a heartening statistic for the government as it signifies that there are fewer long-term implications of demonetisation on citizens and some of the anger on ground is indicative of the memory of instantaneous events in 2016. The only statistic of concern is 18.5 per cent respondents saying that their problems have increased - this is a rise over the 12.3 per cent in 2016. Prime Minister's popularity? Demonetisation left 17 per cent of the population in limbo and they professed no opinion in 2016 on its impact on PM Modi's popularity. Worryingly for the PM, roughly 13 per cent of these have migrated to the decreased popularity column by 2018. The column for respondents who thought this might result in increased popularity has undergone a mild decline from 52 per cent in 2016 to 49 per cent in 2018. Although PM Modi's stock remains high, the high conversion rate of neutrals to critics is a cause of concern. Perhaps the loyalists have stuck it out with the PM but the fence sitters are choosing otherwise. Sentiment on economy? The dominant and almost-majority sentiment of respondents in 2016 predicted a recovery after short-term blip for the economy. 49 per cent respondents averred that economy may dip for a while and then recover strongly. This sentiment has crashed down to 29.5 per cent now, whereas the bearish sentiment of a long-lasting recession has strengthened from 12 per cent in 2016 to 28 per cent in 2018. Interestingly, the bullish sentiment has also strengthened from 19.5 per cent in 2016 to 29 per cent in 2018. This is yet another indicator of the deep vertical divide that come to occupy Indian polity in all matters of national discourse. Conclusion: Good idea or bad idea? In 2016, 27 per cent respondents thought that demonetisation was a good step but poorly implemented. This figure declined to 17 per cent by 2018 and most of the migration of opinion occurred towards the option of "bad step which is poorly implemented". The respondents who believed in it rose from 5 per cent in 2016 to 28.5 per cent in 2018, this indicates yet again the trend of fence sitters migrating towards the critics' category. The supporters of the demonetisation in toto declined from 66 per cent in 2016 to 51 per cent in 2018. In other words, demonetisation has lost supporters and managed to drive the fence sitters away, something somewhere has not clicked with sections of society. Although the net sentiment continues to be positive, the presence of pain in politically significant sections of society is undeniable and salient. Whether that will the have mild or huge impact on upcoming Lok Sabha election 2019 is a matter of conjecture. (This article was originally published on The Zeenews. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Support remains strong for both demonetisation and PM Narendra Modi

As campaigning in the five state assembly elections winds down, the day of reckoning, December 11, looms. We will have a good idea of winners and losers by early afternoon, next Tuesday.

The results in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are especially crucial. A Congress victory in Rajasthan seems near certain, but Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are too close to call.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invested personal political capital in both states. Though he has addressed fewer rallies than he did in Gujarat and Karnataka, the proximity of these assembly elections to the 2019 Lok Sabha poll gives their outcome a sharp edge.

Beyond the results though lies another critical question: has Prime Minister Narendra Modi over-extended himself? Few prime ministers after Indira Gandhi have campaigned as extensively as Modi. Rajiv Gandhi was not as enthusiastic a campaigner as his mother. Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh too were not their parties’ star electoral campaigners.

Modi was nominated as head of the BJP’s campaign committee at the controversial national executive council meeting in Goa in June 2013 which LK Advani boycotted. It was only three months later, in September 2013, that then party president Rajnath Singh succeeded in nominating Modi, against fierce opposition from the Advani camp, as the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate. As late as August 2013, it was not certain Modi would, in fact, be declared the party’s prime ministerial candidate.

As campaign chief, Modi was then barnstorming across India ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha election. Meeting him in his chief minister’s office in Gandhinagar, I told him bluntly that if the party did not declare him the prime ministerial candidate, he should ease up on his relentless, bone-crushing campaign and let other senior leaders, including those in the Advani camp opposing him, share the burden. Weeks later, Modi was officially declared the party’s PM candidate.

That though raises a question few have asked: has being the party’s chief electoral campaigner in multiple state polls over the past five election-heavy years cut into his role as prime minister? Modi already functions as the de facto foreign minister. He holds several cabinet portfolios. He travels abroad extensively, including last week’s G20 summit in Argentina. Is even the 18-hour workday that Modi puts in seven days a week enough to do justice to all the roles he has taken upon himself?

In a recently published book (Making of New India: Transformation Under Modi Government) to which I contributed a chapter, I wrote: “One of the challenges the prime minister has faced is fulfilling his multiple roles. Modi is the BJP’s most charismatic electoral asset. He leads the country’s global diplomatic outreach. And he oversees the work of a large Union Cabinet as well as a vast bureaucracy. These roles require sharply different approaches. Election campaigning needs exceptional oratory and the ability to connect with the masses. Global diplomacy requires the ability to present India’s case to world leaders with brevity, clarity and a natural, earthy self-confidence. But the most taxing is dealing with issues at home through the cabinet, the amorphous prime minister’s office (PMO) and a swathe of department officials.”

Over the past two weeks, Modi has travelled to Buenos Aires to meet world leaders at the G20 summit, campaigned in Rajasthan, Telangana and Madhya Pradesh and reviewed progress on dozens of welfare schemes monitored by groups of ministers and secretaries.

Campaigning takes the most toll. In the absence of other vote-catchers, the onus falls on Modi. Party president Amit Shah, rather than any senior minister, takes on a supplementary role. Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, Rajnath Singh and Nirmala Sitharaman, who form the inner core of the cabinet and are members of the cabinet committee on security (CCS), have played a minimal role in campaigning for the five state assembly elections.

They are, due to health and other reasons, unlikely to campaign actively for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. It is for this reason that Modi has called for simultaneous parliamentary and assembly elections. Almost year-around campaigning takes away far too much time and energy.

Constitutional and logistical reasons, however, make simultaneous elections virtually impossible. Modi is thus left with the prospect of dividing his time between domestic governance, foreign affairs and electioneering. As a result, much of policymaking that should belong to the cabinet is delegated to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and then farmed out to groups of ministers and secretaries.

In Gujarat, relying on a tightly monitored bureaucracy worked well. In labyrinthic Delhi, where intrigue lurks around every corner, it hasn’t. The contretemps in the CBI, the dissonance with the RBI and the continuing slugfest over the Rafale deal underscore how a government can be undermined.

Modi at 67 is remarkably fit but the burden of carrying so many responsibilities will eventually tell on him. If the BJP-led NDA manage to form the government in 2019, he will need to change his strategy: bring more lateral talent into the cabinet, allow younger ministers to campaign across states and impose stronger control over the bureaucracy, especially in the ministries of finance, defence and civil aviation.

In May 2014, the question was: would Modi reform intrigue-plagued Delhi or would Delhi co-opt him? That question will be answered in May 2019. 
 
(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-onerous-art-of-multi-tasking-2692659">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

As campaigning in the five state assembly elections winds down, the day of reckoning, December 11, looms. We will have a good idea of winners and losers by early afternoon, next Tuesday.

As campaigning in the five state assembly elections winds down, the day of reckoning, December 11, looms. We will have a good idea of winners and losers by early afternoon, next Tuesday. The results in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are especially crucial. A Congress victory in Rajasthan seems near certain, but Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh are too close to call. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invested personal political capital in both states. Though he has addressed fewer rallies than he did in Gujarat and Karnataka, the proximity of these assembly elections to the 2019 Lok Sabha poll gives their outcome a sharp edge. Beyond the results though lies another critical question: has Prime Minister Narendra Modi over-extended himself? Few prime ministers after Indira Gandhi have campaigned as extensively as Modi. Rajiv Gandhi was not as enthusiastic a campaigner as his mother. Narasimha Rao and Manmohan Singh too were not their parties’ star electoral campaigners. Modi was nominated as head of the BJP’s campaign committee at the controversial national executive council meeting in Goa in June 2013 which LK Advani boycotted. It was only three months later, in September 2013, that then party president Rajnath Singh succeeded in nominating Modi, against fierce opposition from the Advani camp, as the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate. As late as August 2013, it was not certain Modi would, in fact, be declared the party’s prime ministerial candidate. As campaign chief, Modi was then barnstorming across India ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha election. Meeting him in his chief minister’s office in Gandhinagar, I told him bluntly that if the party did not declare him the prime ministerial candidate, he should ease up on his relentless, bone-crushing campaign and let other senior leaders, including those in the Advani camp opposing him, share the burden. Weeks later, Modi was officially declared the party’s PM candidate. That though raises a question few have asked: has being the party’s chief electoral campaigner in multiple state polls over the past five election-heavy years cut into his role as prime minister? Modi already functions as the de facto foreign minister. He holds several cabinet portfolios. He travels abroad extensively, including last week’s G20 summit in Argentina. Is even the 18-hour workday that Modi puts in seven days a week enough to do justice to all the roles he has taken upon himself? In a recently published book (Making of New India: Transformation Under Modi Government) to which I contributed a chapter, I wrote: “One of the challenges the prime minister has faced is fulfilling his multiple roles. Modi is the BJP’s most charismatic electoral asset. He leads the country’s global diplomatic outreach. And he oversees the work of a large Union Cabinet as well as a vast bureaucracy. These roles require sharply different approaches. Election campaigning needs exceptional oratory and the ability to connect with the masses. Global diplomacy requires the ability to present India’s case to world leaders with brevity, clarity and a natural, earthy self-confidence. But the most taxing is dealing with issues at home through the cabinet, the amorphous prime minister’s office (PMO) and a swathe of department officials.” Over the past two weeks, Modi has travelled to Buenos Aires to meet world leaders at the G20 summit, campaigned in Rajasthan, Telangana and Madhya Pradesh and reviewed progress on dozens of welfare schemes monitored by groups of ministers and secretaries. Campaigning takes the most toll. In the absence of other vote-catchers, the onus falls on Modi. Party president Amit Shah, rather than any senior minister, takes on a supplementary role. Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, Rajnath Singh and Nirmala Sitharaman, who form the inner core of the cabinet and are members of the cabinet committee on security (CCS), have played a minimal role in campaigning for the five state assembly elections. They are, due to health and other reasons, unlikely to campaign actively for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. It is for this reason that Modi has called for simultaneous parliamentary and assembly elections. Almost year-around campaigning takes away far too much time and energy. Constitutional and logistical reasons, however, make simultaneous elections virtually impossible. Modi is thus left with the prospect of dividing his time between domestic governance, foreign affairs and electioneering. As a result, much of policymaking that should belong to the cabinet is delegated to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and then farmed out to groups of ministers and secretaries. In Gujarat, relying on a tightly monitored bureaucracy worked well. In labyrinthic Delhi, where intrigue lurks around every corner, it hasn’t. The contretemps in the CBI, the dissonance with the RBI and the continuing slugfest over the Rafale deal underscore how a government can be undermined. Modi at 67 is remarkably fit but the burden of carrying so many responsibilities will eventually tell on him. If the BJP-led NDA manage to form the government in 2019, he will need to change his strategy: bring more lateral talent into the cabinet, allow younger ministers to campaign across states and impose stronger control over the bureaucracy, especially in the ministries of finance, defence and civil aviation. In May 2014, the question was: would Modi reform intrigue-plagued Delhi or would Delhi co-opt him? That question will be answered in May 2019. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Onerous art of multi-tasking

PM Narendra Modi to inaugurate Statue of Unity today

Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over alleged corruption in the multi-crore Rafale jet deal with France, saying he should not fear a CBI probe if he is honest.

Referring to the Union government’s mid-night decision to send CBI chief Alok Verma on indefinite leave last week, Kejriwal claimed Verma was “suspended” as Modi feared he was to register an FIR in connection with the deal and launch an investigation.

“It is a Rs 36,000-crore fighter aircraft scam. An honest CBI chief was removed at 3 am as he wanted to lodge FIR against the prime minister the next morning. The prime minister should not be afraid of a CBI probe, if he is honest,” Kejriwal said at a public meeting in Jaipur in poll-bound Rajasthan.

His supporters chanted that Modi is a “thief”. Verma was sent on leave after a feud erupted between him and his deputy, Special Director Rakesh Asthana, with the government saying the decision was taken to protect institutional integrity of the agency.

The government has also repeatedly denied allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal. 
Referring to himself, Kejriwal said the people of New Delhi can proudly say that their chief minister is honest. Can they say the prime minister is “honest”, he asked the crowd.

“The CBI conducted the raid at my residence. I cooperated with the sleuths, offered them tea and sweets. All they found were four mufflers. People of the New Delhi can proudly say their chief minister is honest,” he said.

Kejriwal asked the people whether they have got the quality education, better healthcare, free water and cheaper electricity under the rule of the BJP or the Congress, whom they have voted to power in Rajasthan alternately in recent elections.

Making a case for his AAP, he suggested to the people that they should vote for the party, like the people of Delhi have done, and dislodge both BJP and Congress from governance in Rajasthan.

“We do not vote to make any party win but to defeat the other. BJP and Congress had done a setting in New Delhi to loot people but the people through both the national parties out of power and it can happen in Rajasthan as well,” Kejriwal said.

He claimed the AAP government in Delhi has done what the two national parties could not do in 70 years. The success rate of Delhi government-run schools was 10 per cent better than private schools, people get free medicines, treatment, water under government schemes and cheaper electricity, he said.

Talking about farm distress, he criticised Centre’s crop loan insurance scheme, saying it was meant to benefit insurance firms and not farmers. “Crop insurance scheme is a scheme to loot farmers. Premium amount is directly deducted from their bank accounts, and when it comes to raising claims farmers have to run from pillar to post,” he alleged, seeking an end to the central government scheme.

The party, which will be contesting the assembly election, scheduled on December 7, for the first time in the state, on Sunday also released its draft manifesto and sought suggestions from people.

Kejriwal said people decide the fate of democracy and AAP would work for the betterment of all sections of society.

Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over alleged corruption in the multi-crore Rafale jet deal with France, saying he should not fear a CBI probe if he is honest.

Aam Aadmi Party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over alleged corruption in the multi-crore Rafale jet deal with France, saying he should not fear a CBI probe if he is honest. Referring to the Union government’s mid-night decision to send CBI chief Alok Verma on indefinite leave last week, Kejriwal claimed Verma was “suspended” as Modi feared he was to register an FIR in connection with the deal and launch an investigation. “It is a Rs 36,000-crore fighter aircraft scam. An honest CBI chief was removed at 3 am as he wanted to lodge FIR against the prime minister the next morning. The prime minister should not be afraid of a CBI probe, if he is honest,” Kejriwal said at a public meeting in Jaipur in poll-bound Rajasthan. His supporters chanted that Modi is a “thief”. Verma was sent on leave after a feud erupted between him and his deputy, Special Director Rakesh Asthana, with the government saying the decision was taken to protect institutional integrity of the agency. The government has also repeatedly denied allegations of corruption in the Rafale deal. Referring to himself, Kejriwal said the people of New Delhi can proudly say that their chief minister is honest. Can they say the prime minister is “honest”, he asked the crowd. “The CBI conducted the raid at my residence. I cooperated with the sleuths, offered them tea and sweets. All they found were four mufflers. People of the New Delhi can proudly say their chief minister is honest,” he said. Kejriwal asked the people whether they have got the quality education, better healthcare, free water and cheaper electricity under the rule of the BJP or the Congress, whom they have voted to power in Rajasthan alternately in recent elections. Making a case for his AAP, he suggested to the people that they should vote for the party, like the people of Delhi have done, and dislodge both BJP and Congress from governance in Rajasthan. “We do not vote to make any party win but to defeat the other. BJP and Congress had done a setting in New Delhi to loot people but the people through both the national parties out of power and it can happen in Rajasthan as well,” Kejriwal said. He claimed the AAP government in Delhi has done what the two national parties could not do in 70 years. The success rate of Delhi government-run schools was 10 per cent better than private schools, people get free medicines, treatment, water under government schemes and cheaper electricity, he said. Talking about farm distress, he criticised Centre’s crop loan insurance scheme, saying it was meant to benefit insurance firms and not farmers. “Crop insurance scheme is a scheme to loot farmers. Premium amount is directly deducted from their bank accounts, and when it comes to raising claims farmers have to run from pillar to post,” he alleged, seeking an end to the central government scheme. The party, which will be contesting the assembly election, scheduled on December 7, for the first time in the state, on Sunday also released its draft manifesto and sought suggestions from people. Kejriwal said people decide the fate of democracy and AAP would work for the betterment of all sections of society.

If honest, PM Narendra Modi should not fear CBI probe in Rafale deal: Arvind Kejriwal

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday criticised nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar for earlier saying that the BJP was playing a "threat letter card" to gain sympathy.

On Sunday, amid the controversy over an alleged plot to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pawar on Sunday had said that the threat letter was being used to win people's sympathy.

He said, "They say there was a threatening letter. I spoke to a retired police officer, who had worked for CID. He said there is no substance in the letter. The letter is being used to garner people`s sympathy."

However, Fadnavis slammed Pawar and tweeted that the former was not expected to "stoop down to this level".

"It is very unfortunate that Sharad Pawar ji is raising doubts about the communication ceased by the police which revels the plot to assassin Hon PM Narendra Modi ji. Hon PM Narendra Modi ji is the leader of our nation and not just of a political party," Fadnavis tweeted.

"@PawarSpeaks is not expected to stoop down to this level. Police has all the evidences and truth will prevail," his tweet further stated.

In a tweet in Marathi, Fadnavis said that "Pawar ji should play politics of the nation and not politics of hatred."&nbsp;

Earlier, claiming that the people arrested for inciting the Bhima -Koregaon violence were innocent, Pawar said, "When like-minded people came together to organise Elgar Parishad, they were called Naxals and arrested. Everyone knows who executed the Bhima-Koregaon violence, but those who have no link with it were arrested. This is a misuse of power."

For the uninitiated, the Pune police told a court that they were in possession of a letter, seized from the residence of one of the five people who has been arrested in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon violence, which talks about the assassination of Prime Minister Modi in Rajiv Gandhi-type incident.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Hon PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji is the leader of our nation and not just of a political party.<a href="https://twitter.com/PawarSpeaks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PawarSpeaks</a> is not expected to stoop down to this level. 
Police has all the evidences and truth will prevail.
— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis/status/1005862181219414016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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On Sunday, amid the controversy over an alleged plot to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pawar on Sunday had said that the threat letter was being used to win people's sympathy

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday criticised nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar for earlier saying that the BJP was playing a "threat letter card" to gain sympathy. On Sunday, amid the controversy over an alleged plot to assassinate Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pawar on Sunday had said that the threat letter was being used to win people's sympathy. He said, "They say there was a threatening letter. I spoke to a retired police officer, who had worked for CID. He said there is no substance in the letter. The letter is being used to garner people`s sympathy." However, Fadnavis slammed Pawar and tweeted that the former was not expected to "stoop down to this level". "It is very unfortunate that Sharad Pawar ji is raising doubts about the communication ceased by the police which revels the plot to assassin Hon PM Narendra Modi ji. Hon PM Narendra Modi ji is the leader of our nation and not just of a political party," Fadnavis tweeted. "@PawarSpeaks is not expected to stoop down to this level. Police has all the evidences and truth will prevail," his tweet further stated. In a tweet in Marathi, Fadnavis said that "Pawar ji should play politics of the nation and not politics of hatred." Earlier, claiming that the people arrested for inciting the Bhima -Koregaon violence were innocent, Pawar said, "When like-minded people came together to organise Elgar Parishad, they were called Naxals and arrested. Everyone knows who executed the Bhima-Koregaon violence, but those who have no link with it were arrested. This is a misuse of power." For the uninitiated, the Pune police told a court that they were in possession of a letter, seized from the residence of one of the five people who has been arrested in connection with the Bhima-Koregaon violence, which talks about the assassination of Prime Minister Modi in Rajiv Gandhi-type incident. Hon PM @narendramodi ji is the leader of our nation and not just of a political party.@PawarSpeaks is not expected to stoop down to this level. Police has all the evidences and truth will prevail. — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) June 10, 2018 ×

Maharashtra CM hits out at Pawar over alleged plot to assassinate PM Narendra Modi

The slow pace of fitting out regional airports risks delaying Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious plan to launch more flights connecting smaller towns and cities and get millions more people using air travel.

The programme, flagged off by Modi last year, aims to boost economic growth by refurbishing idled colonial-era airstrips or building newer airports, and incentivising airlines to offer discounted fares to connect them with bigger cities.

But work on building new airports in small towns and upgrading existing facilities has failed to keep pace, two government officials said, and could knock off course the government’s lofty goal of bringing 100 million more passengers to the skies in the next five years.

Under Modi’s “regional connectivity scheme”, the government planned to open 31 new airports by the end of 2017, but only 16 are operational so far. Some states have said they do not have enough funds to purchase basic equipment such as mandatory fire tenders, one of the officials said.

In other cases it was taking longer than planned to build air traffic control towers or set up terminal buildings equipped with baggage scanners and security systems, said the official.

The government has now stepped in, and will procure much of the equipment itself and lease it to state governments to get the 15 remaining airports operational by end-June.

“It is a trade-off. We either keep adding more flights or calibrate the existing ones with the capacity we have,” the official said.

The delays highlight the hurdles Modi - who has campaigned on his ability to successfully implement growth-boosting reforms - faces as he seeks re-election in 2019.

<img alt="Plane-flight.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Plane-flight.JPG" width="770" />

An aircraft is silhouetted by the sun in New Delhi. (Reuters)

Making flying affordable

Passenger traffic in India has grown at about 20 per cent annually in recent years, making the world’s fastest-growing aviation market lucrative for large and small planemakers.

When launching the scheme in early 2017, the government said it wanted to make flying affordable for the common man wearing simple flip-flops by reviving more than 400 unused and under-utilised airstrips in the country’s vast hinterlands.

The civil aviation ministry has given approvals, in two phases, to nearly a dozen airlines, including start-ups like Air Deccan and Air Odisha as well as established carriers like IndiGo, Jet Airways and SpiceJet, to start flights on more than 450 routes covering 56 new airports.

But with even the first phase still behind schedule - flights have begun on just 60 of the 128 planned routes - the government plans to delay the start of phase three, the two officials said.

One of the officials said that the civil aviation ministry had not expected such a large response to the programme, and was now scrambling to get airports ready on time.

“If the pace of development of smaller airports is not accelerated and it does not meet the targets, it will be a major challenge for airlines,” said Arindam Som, an analyst at India Ratings, a Fitch Group company.

Som said that some airlines were looking at these regional routes to feed into their wider network and boost growth.

Business impact

Air Odisha and Air Deccan complain that the problems are not confined to small airports - bigger ones such as Mumbai and Delhi are already choked and have few landing slots available.

Both carriers have acquired aircraft on lease but are yet to begin operations on more than 30 of the 40 regional routes they received approval for, making it difficult to generate enough revenue to staunch losses, officials at the airlines said.

“These airports are dragging their feet,” said G.R. Gopinath, founder and chairman of Air Deccan.

Airports generally get more revenue when international or larger domestic flights land, bringing in more passengers who can pay for airport services. But most regional carriers operate small planes, with some having as few as 19 seats, and are also exempt from paying landing and parking charges under the scheme.

Gopinath said these considerations play a role in airports giving landing slots.

While a spokesman for Mumbai airport declined to comment on the cost implications of allotting slots for regional routes, he said it was working to incorporate more flights to meet demand.

A spokesman for Delhi airport, which has given some slots to regional airlines, said the movement of smaller aircraft adversely impacts already congested airspace.

Start-up airline TruJet has begun flights on all regional routes it got approval for under the programme’s first phase by taking a noon time slot from Mumbai - a period with relatively lighter air traffic, its commercial chief, Senthil Raja, said.

SpiceJet, too, has started operating on several routes.

French planemaker ATR, which recently won a 50-aircraft order from IndiGo, said it was not yet feeling any major impact of the infrastructure constraints in India’s aviation sector.

“Today it does not prevent us from selling aircraft ... but it is certainly a challenge the government needs to pay attention to,” said Guillaume Huertas, head of sales for South Asia at ATR.

The delays highlight the hurdles Modi - who has campaigned on his ability to implement growth-boosting reforms - faces as he seeks re-election in 2019.

The slow pace of fitting out regional airports risks delaying Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious plan to launch more flights connecting smaller towns and cities and get millions more people using air travel. The programme, flagged off by Modi last year, aims to boost economic growth by refurbishing idled colonial-era airstrips or building newer airports, and incentivising airlines to offer discounted fares to connect them with bigger cities. But work on building new airports in small towns and upgrading existing facilities has failed to keep pace, two government officials said, and could knock off course the government’s lofty goal of bringing 100 million more passengers to the skies in the next five years. Under Modi’s “regional connectivity scheme”, the government planned to open 31 new airports by the end of 2017, but only 16 are operational so far. Some states have said they do not have enough funds to purchase basic equipment such as mandatory fire tenders, one of the officials said. In other cases it was taking longer than planned to build air traffic control towers or set up terminal buildings equipped with baggage scanners and security systems, said the official. The government has now stepped in, and will procure much of the equipment itself and lease it to state governments to get the 15 remaining airports operational by end-June. “It is a trade-off. We either keep adding more flights or calibrate the existing ones with the capacity we have,” the official said. The delays highlight the hurdles Modi - who has campaigned on his ability to successfully implement growth-boosting reforms - faces as he seeks re-election in 2019. An aircraft is silhouetted by the sun in New Delhi. (Reuters) Making flying affordable Passenger traffic in India has grown at about 20 per cent annually in recent years, making the world’s fastest-growing aviation market lucrative for large and small planemakers. When launching the scheme in early 2017, the government said it wanted to make flying affordable for the common man wearing simple flip-flops by reviving more than 400 unused and under-utilised airstrips in the country’s vast hinterlands. The civil aviation ministry has given approvals, in two phases, to nearly a dozen airlines, including start-ups like Air Deccan and Air Odisha as well as established carriers like IndiGo, Jet Airways and SpiceJet, to start flights on more than 450 routes covering 56 new airports. But with even the first phase still behind schedule - flights have begun on just 60 of the 128 planned routes - the government plans to delay the start of phase three, the two officials said. One of the officials said that the civil aviation ministry had not expected such a large response to the programme, and was now scrambling to get airports ready on time. “If the pace of development of smaller airports is not accelerated and it does not meet the targets, it will be a major challenge for airlines,” said Arindam Som, an analyst at India Ratings, a Fitch Group company. Som said that some airlines were looking at these regional routes to feed into their wider network and boost growth. Business impact Air Odisha and Air Deccan complain that the problems are not confined to small airports - bigger ones such as Mumbai and Delhi are already choked and have few landing slots available. Both carriers have acquired aircraft on lease but are yet to begin operations on more than 30 of the 40 regional routes they received approval for, making it difficult to generate enough revenue to staunch losses, officials at the airlines said. “These airports are dragging their feet,” said G.R. Gopinath, founder and chairman of Air Deccan. Airports generally get more revenue when international or larger domestic flights land, bringing in more passengers who can pay for airport services. But most regional carriers operate small planes, with some having as few as 19 seats, and are also exempt from paying landing and parking charges under the scheme. Gopinath said these considerations play a role in airports giving landing slots. While a spokesman for Mumbai airport declined to comment on the cost implications of allotting slots for regional routes, he said it was working to incorporate more flights to meet demand. A spokesman for Delhi airport, which has given some slots to regional airlines, said the movement of smaller aircraft adversely impacts already congested airspace. Start-up airline TruJet has begun flights on all regional routes it got approval for under the programme’s first phase by taking a noon time slot from Mumbai - a period with relatively lighter air traffic, its commercial chief, Senthil Raja, said. SpiceJet, too, has started operating on several routes. French planemaker ATR, which recently won a 50-aircraft order from IndiGo, said it was not yet feeling any major impact of the infrastructure constraints in India’s aviation sector. “Today it does not prevent us from selling aircraft ... but it is certainly a challenge the government needs to pay attention to,” said Guillaume Huertas, head of sales for South Asia at ATR.

PM Narendra Modi’s dream to get more Indians flying hits turbulence

Member of parliament and actor Paresh Rawal is all set to play to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a biopic. The actor has revealed to a newspaper that the work on the film has just begun and he will soon start shooting for it.&nbsp; 
“We are just locking the script and hopefully it will be finished by August 15, and we will begin to shoot it in September or October,” Rawal told the publication. “It will be a hugely challenging role.”

Rawal, who is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party, will also produce the film. It is not clear yet on who will helm the project and which actors, other than Rawal, are part of it.&nbsp;

The 63-year-old actor will soon be seen as Sunil Dutt in Raju Hirani’s biopic on Sanjay Dutt. Sanju will be released on June 9. 
&nbsp;

Rawal will play the PM's character in the film.

Member of parliament and actor Paresh Rawal is all set to play to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a biopic. The actor has revealed to a newspaper that the work on the film has just begun and he will soon start shooting for it. “We are just locking the script and hopefully it will be finished by August 15, and we will begin to shoot it in September or October,” Rawal told the publication. “It will be a hugely challenging role.” Rawal, who is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party, will also produce the film. It is not clear yet on who will helm the project and which actors, other than Rawal, are part of it. The 63-year-old actor will soon be seen as Sunil Dutt in Raju Hirani’s biopic on Sanjay Dutt. Sanju will be released on June 9.

Paresh Rawal to start working on a biopic on PM Narendra Modi soon

PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated the workers on the party’s success in Karnataka election.

He also expressed grief over the loss of lives in Varanasi, after a portion of an under-construction flyover collapsed this evening.&nbsp;

“I am happy about Karnataka’s victory but on the other hand, I am saddened by the loss of lives in Varanasi. I extend my condolences to the families of the deceased and assure that the government will do whatever it can to support these families,” he said.

PM Modi said that language was never a barrier in Karnataka. Congress wanted North-South divide.

PM Modi said: "They say BJP is a party of Hindi speaking states. Are Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra states in North East Hindi speaking states? No, BJP represents India. There was no barrier between people of Karnataka & me. I’ll always cherish the affection I received from them."

PM Modi speaking at the BJP headquarters slammed the Mamata government over the West Bengal Panchayat violence calling it a ‘murder of democracy’. He said people were bullied and weren't even allowed to file nominations.&nbsp;

He said: “There is one more thing I want to talk about...the scenes from the Panchayat Elections in West Bengal. It was nothing but a murder of democracy. From the nomination stage to the day of polling, where was the spirit of democracy? People were bullied.”

He added: “People were disallowed to file nominations also. It is not only BJP people who suffered. People from all the leading parties except the one that rules Bengal suffered. This is serious. A land as great as West Bengal has to see such sights, it is unfortunate. It is not about who wins polls....all those who are democratic-minded, including friends in civil society, they must come together to strengthen the democratic spirit. We cannot see things only in partisan terms.”

PM Modi said that language was never a barrier in Karnataka. Congress wanted North-South divide.

PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday congratulated the workers on the party’s success in Karnataka election. He also expressed grief over the loss of lives in Varanasi, after a portion of an under-construction flyover collapsed this evening. “I am happy about Karnataka’s victory but on the other hand, I am saddened by the loss of lives in Varanasi. I extend my condolences to the families of the deceased and assure that the government will do whatever it can to support these families,” he said. PM Modi said that language was never a barrier in Karnataka. Congress wanted North-South divide. PM Modi said: "They say BJP is a party of Hindi speaking states. Are Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra states in North East Hindi speaking states? No, BJP represents India. There was no barrier between people of Karnataka & me. I’ll always cherish the affection I received from them." PM Modi speaking at the BJP headquarters slammed the Mamata government over the West Bengal Panchayat violence calling it a ‘murder of democracy’. He said people were bullied and weren't even allowed to file nominations. He said: “There is one more thing I want to talk about...the scenes from the Panchayat Elections in West Bengal. It was nothing but a murder of democracy. From the nomination stage to the day of polling, where was the spirit of democracy? People were bullied.” He added: “People were disallowed to file nominations also. It is not only BJP people who suffered. People from all the leading parties except the one that rules Bengal suffered. This is serious. A land as great as West Bengal has to see such sights, it is unfortunate. It is not about who wins polls....all those who are democratic-minded, including friends in civil society, they must come together to strengthen the democratic spirit. We cannot see things only in partisan terms.”

PM Modi hails BJP’s showing in Karnataka, says Congress wanted North-South divide

The CIC has directed the Air India to disclose complete records related to bills raised for the foreign visits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underlining that since the expenditure is from the public exchequer it cannot be withheld under the “cloak” of commercial confidence and fiduciary capacity.

The commission rejected the arguments of Air India’s central public information officer (CPIO) that the information relates to commercial confidence and is held by the public sector undertaking in a fiduciary capacity, making it exempt from disclosure.

“Moreover, by no stretch of imagination, it can be acceptable that the information regarding dates, duration and places of visit by the PM in his official capacity are exempted u/s sections 8 or 9 of the RTI Act (the exemption clauses under the RTI Act),” Information Commissioner Amitava Bhattacharyya ruled.

He said each individual bill, as well as the dates of receipt of amounts, should be disclosed as the same involved “expenditure out of public exchequer”.

Bhattacharyya noted that Air India’s denial to part with the sought for information without citing any exemption clause under the RTI Act is “not acceptable” as a “justifiable denial of information” sought by RTI applicant Lokesh Batra.

“CPIO (Air India) on one hand claimed that the sought for information is related to a matter of commercial confidence and on the other hand the CPIO concerned stated that the information sought for is maintained by Air India in a fiduciary capacity,” he observed.

Batra had sought to know dates, durations, places visited and the date-wise copies of bills raised by Air India to the PMO for 2016-17.

“The commission after close scrutiny of the information sought by the appellant observed that dates, duration and places of the prime minister’s foreign visits are disclosable (sic) as these details are widely reported in the media, both national & international and both print & electronic,” Bhattacharyya said.

He said the commission is not convinced with the CPIO’s submission of exemption under the “cloak of commercial confidence and fiduciary relationship” with the client concerned, which in this case is another wing of the same government.

In response to a separate RTI application of Batra, filed recently, seeking similar information from Air India, the national carrier had cited an instruction from the PMO to not share information related to the prime minister’s foreign visits.

In an e-mail, sent to an Air India official on December 26, 2016, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) had said, “Records pertaining to PM’s flight have certain information which may have security implications and are, hence, exempted from disclosure under clause (g) of Section 8(1) of the RTI Act, 2005.”

“As such, the Air India is advised not to disclose information relating to PM’s flight to such RTI queries,” it said.

It was not clear what had prompted the PMO’s e-mail in 2016. However, the present RTI application in which the commission has given orders to disclose was filed on September 14, 2016.

The CIC rejected Air India’s submission that the details were exempt from RTI because of ‘commercial confidence and fiduciary relationship with the client’.

The CIC has directed the Air India to disclose complete records related to bills raised for the foreign visits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underlining that since the expenditure is from the public exchequer it cannot be withheld under the “cloak” of commercial confidence and fiduciary capacity. The commission rejected the arguments of Air India’s central public information officer (CPIO) that the information relates to commercial confidence and is held by the public sector undertaking in a fiduciary capacity, making it exempt from disclosure. “Moreover, by no stretch of imagination, it can be acceptable that the information regarding dates, duration and places of visit by the PM in his official capacity are exempted u/s sections 8 or 9 of the RTI Act (the exemption clauses under the RTI Act),” Information Commissioner Amitava Bhattacharyya ruled. He said each individual bill, as well as the dates of receipt of amounts, should be disclosed as the same involved “expenditure out of public exchequer”. Bhattacharyya noted that Air India’s denial to part with the sought for information without citing any exemption clause under the RTI Act is “not acceptable” as a “justifiable denial of information” sought by RTI applicant Lokesh Batra. “CPIO (Air India) on one hand claimed that the sought for information is related to a matter of commercial confidence and on the other hand the CPIO concerned stated that the information sought for is maintained by Air India in a fiduciary capacity,” he observed. Batra had sought to know dates, durations, places visited and the date-wise copies of bills raised by Air India to the PMO for 2016-17. “The commission after close scrutiny of the information sought by the appellant observed that dates, duration and places of the prime minister’s foreign visits are disclosable (sic) as these details are widely reported in the media, both national & international and both print & electronic,” Bhattacharyya said. He said the commission is not convinced with the CPIO’s submission of exemption under the “cloak of commercial confidence and fiduciary relationship” with the client concerned, which in this case is another wing of the same government. In response to a separate RTI application of Batra, filed recently, seeking similar information from Air India, the national carrier had cited an instruction from the PMO to not share information related to the prime minister’s foreign visits. In an e-mail, sent to an Air India official on December 26, 2016, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) had said, “Records pertaining to PM’s flight have certain information which may have security implications and are, hence, exempted from disclosure under clause (g) of Section 8(1) of the RTI Act, 2005.” “As such, the Air India is advised not to disclose information relating to PM’s flight to such RTI queries,” it said. It was not clear what had prompted the PMO’s e-mail in 2016. However, the present RTI application in which the commission has given orders to disclose was filed on September 14, 2016.

Reveal PM Narendra Modi's foreign visit bills: Information commission to Air India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate ‘Buddha Jayanti 2018’ celebrations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium&nbsp;later today.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended greetings on the occasion of Buddha Purnima.

"On Buddha Purnima, greetings to fellow citizens and to the global Buddhist community. Lord Buddha`s message of non-violence, love and compassion provides us the strength to work for the welfare of others. May his teachings guide us towards universal fraternity," the President said.&nbsp;

Modi said: "The teachings of Lord Buddha are extremely relevant in the 21st century.&nbsp;

"His was a life devoted to alleviating suffering and removing injustice from society. His compassion has endeared him to millions. Buddha Purnima greetings to everyone."

Vice-President&nbsp;Venkaiah Naidu has also extended his greetings to the people of the country on the occasion.&nbsp;

''I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, the birthday of Lord Buddha, today. Let us commit ourselves to follow the principles of universal love, compassion and tolerance shown by Lord Buddha,'' he tweeted. &nbsp;

Buddha Purnima is traditionally celebrated in majority of East Asia to commemorate the birth of Gautam Buddha, who later became the founder of Buddhism.

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Today afternoon, on Buddha Purnima, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> will join a programme at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi.
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/990784397564575745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, the birthday of Lord Buddha, today. 
Let us commit ourselves to follow the principles of universal love, compassion and tolerance shown by Lord Buddha. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BuddhaPurnima?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BuddhaPurnima</a> <a href="https://t.co/tSzaWzbzaq">pic.twitter.com/tSzaWzbzaq</a>
— VicePresidentOfIndia (@VPSecretariat) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPSecretariat/status/990775360659668992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Modi hailed Buddha Purnima as a special day in his monthly radio programme Maan Ki Baat on Sunday and said throughout Asia, the teachings of Lord Buddha have enlightened people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate ‘Buddha Jayanti 2018’ celebrations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium later today. President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended greetings on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. "On Buddha Purnima, greetings to fellow citizens and to the global Buddhist community. Lord Buddha`s message of non-violence, love and compassion provides us the strength to work for the welfare of others. May his teachings guide us towards universal fraternity," the President said. Modi said: "The teachings of Lord Buddha are extremely relevant in the 21st century. "His was a life devoted to alleviating suffering and removing injustice from society. His compassion has endeared him to millions. Buddha Purnima greetings to everyone." Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu has also extended his greetings to the people of the country on the occasion. ''I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, the birthday of Lord Buddha, today. Let us commit ourselves to follow the principles of universal love, compassion and tolerance shown by Lord Buddha,'' he tweeted. Buddha Purnima is traditionally celebrated in majority of East Asia to commemorate the birth of Gautam Buddha, who later became the founder of Buddhism. Today afternoon, on Buddha Purnima, PM @narendramodi will join a programme at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in Delhi. — PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 30, 2018 × I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of ‘Buddha Purnima’, the birthday of Lord Buddha, today. Let us commit ourselves to follow the principles of universal love, compassion and tolerance shown by Lord Buddha. #BuddhaPurnima pic.twitter.com/tSzaWzbzaq — VicePresidentOfIndia (@VPSecretariat) April 30, 2018 ×

PM Modi to inaugurate Buddha Jayanti celebrations in Delhi today

Seeking to reach out to the Dalit community, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had.

Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs.

"No government has, perhaps, given respect to Babasaheb the way our government has. Instead of dragging him into politics, we should all try to walk on the path he has shown us...," he said.

The prime minister was speaking at the inauguration of an annexe building at Western Court that acts as a transit accommodation for newly elected lawmakers.

Lamenting that everyone had dragged Ambedkar's name for political gains, Modi said it was his government that completed the Ambedkar international centre though the idea was conceived when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the prime minister.

The 26, Alipur Road house where the Dalit icon died would be dedicated to the nation on April 13 on the eve of his birth anniversary, Modi said.

Hitting out at the UPA, Modi said the previous government had dragged its feet on the project for years.

"But we completed projects at the stipulated time period," he said, noting that his government was committed to 'sabka saath sabka vikas'.

The prime minister was speaking at the inauguration of an annexe building at Western Court that acts as a transit accommodation for newly elected lawmakers.

Seeking to reach out to the Dalit community, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said no regime had honoured B R Ambedkar as his government had. Modi's remarks come soon after widespread protests, some turning violent, in different parts of the country over a Supreme Court verdict putting in place safeguards to prevent misuse of a law to prevent atrocities of SCs and STs. "No government has, perhaps, given respect to Babasaheb the way our government has. Instead of dragging him into politics, we should all try to walk on the path he has shown us...," he said. The prime minister was speaking at the inauguration of an annexe building at Western Court that acts as a transit accommodation for newly elected lawmakers. Lamenting that everyone had dragged Ambedkar's name for political gains, Modi said it was his government that completed the Ambedkar international centre though the idea was conceived when Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the prime minister. The 26, Alipur Road house where the Dalit icon died would be dedicated to the nation on April 13 on the eve of his birth anniversary, Modi said. Hitting out at the UPA, Modi said the previous government had dragged its feet on the project for years. "But we completed projects at the stipulated time period," he said, noting that his government was committed to 'sabka saath sabka vikas'.

Modi reaches out to Dalit community, says no one respected Ambedkar the way 'our govt has'

The world knows about Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s love for Yoga. He has always been vocal about support for the ancient practice, calling it &ldquo;a symbol of universal aspiration for health and wellbeing&rdquo; and &ldquo;health assurance in zero budget.&rdquo;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi&rsquo;s verified YouTube channel released a 3D animated video of the PM practising a yoga asana. The video was released moments after the PM pitched for a &lsquo;Fit India&rsquo; in his monthly Mann ki Baat address.&nbsp;

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In the video, the PM, in a bright blue T-shirt, can be seen practising the Trikonasana. The name comes from the Sanskrit words trikona meaning &quot;triangle&quot; and asana meaning &quot;posture&quot; or &quot;seat&quot;.

What is Trikonasana?

The world Trikonasana comes from the Sanskrit word Trikon meaning triangle and asana meaning pose. While performing the asana, the person&rsquo;s body resembles a triangle, which explains the name of the pose.

How to perform Trikonasana?

Before performing the asana, it&rsquo;s important that you cleanse your bowels. It should be performed on an empty stomach in the morning. To perform the asana, follow the steps:

1.Stand upright with your legs apart and your arms at your sides.

2.Turn your right foot out by 90 degree and your left foot in by 15 degrees. The heel of your right foot should be aligned with the heel of your left foot.

3.Balance your body weight and ensure both your feet are pressing into the ground.

4.Take a deep breath. And as you breathe out, bend your body down to the right side. Don&rsquo;t bend forward but to your side!

5.As you bend, raise your left hand and lower your right hand to the floor. Both the hands should be in a straight line.

6.Keep your eyes on your raise left hand while your right hand is at your ankles.

7.Relax your body and keep taking deep breaths.

8.As you inhale, bring your arms back to their original position and stand upright again.

9.Repeat with the other side.

In case the instructions were too tough to follow, you can watch and learn from the PM&#39;s 3D doppelganger.

The prime minister's YouTube channel released an animated video of him practising a yoga asana

The world knows about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s love for Yoga. He has always been vocal about support for the ancient practice, calling it “a symbol of universal aspiration for health and wellbeing” and “health assurance in zero budget.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s verified YouTube channel released a 3D animated video of the PM practising a yoga asana. The video was released moments after the PM pitched for a ‘Fit India’ in his monthly Mann ki Baat address. × In the video, the PM, in a bright blue T-shirt, can be seen practising the Trikonasana. The name comes from the Sanskrit words trikona meaning "triangle" and asana meaning "posture" or "seat". What is Trikonasana? The world Trikonasana comes from the Sanskrit word Trikon meaning triangle and asana meaning pose. While performing the asana, the person’s body resembles a triangle, which explains the name of the pose. How to perform Trikonasana? Before performing the asana, it’s important that you cleanse your bowels. It should be performed on an empty stomach in the morning. To perform the asana, follow the steps: 1.Stand upright with your legs apart and your arms at your sides. 2.Turn your right foot out by 90 degree and your left foot in by 15 degrees. The heel of your right foot should be aligned with the heel of your left foot. 3.Balance your body weight and ensure both your feet are pressing into the ground. 4.Take a deep breath. And as you breathe out, bend your body down to the right side. Don’t bend forward but to your side! 5.As you bend, raise your left hand and lower your right hand to the floor. Both the hands should be in a straight line. 6.Keep your eyes on your raise left hand while your right hand is at your ankles. 7.Relax your body and keep taking deep breaths. 8.As you inhale, bring your arms back to their original position and stand upright again. 9.Repeat with the other side. In case the instructions were too tough to follow, you can watch and learn from the PM's 3D doppelganger.

Modi turns yoga teacher, releases animated video

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday greeted the Parsi community on &lsquo;Nowruz&rsquo;.

&ldquo;Nowruz Mubarak to the Parsi community! May the coming year further the spirit of happiness and harmony. I pray that everyone&rsquo;s dreams and aspirations are fulfilled,&rdquo; Modi tweeted.

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Navroz Mubarak to the Parsi community! May the coming year further the spirit of happiness and harmony. I pray that everyone&rsquo;s dreams and aspirations are fulfilled.
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/976291862314041344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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President Ram Nath Kovind also tweeted saying, &quot;Nowruz Mubarak to everybody, especially to our small, much-loved and overachieving Parsi community. May the coming year be happy and fulfilling.&quot;

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Navroz Mubarak to everybody, especially to our small, much-loved and overachieving Parsi community. May the coming year be happy and fulfilling <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
&mdash; President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/976300164968099845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The miniscule Parsi community, accounting to about 68,000 worldwide, celebrates &lsquo;Nowruz&rsquo; with religious fervour, traditional pomp and feasting.

The day starts with an early morning bath and prayers, purifying the homes by burning incense and donning traditional outfits specially prepared for the occasion.

The families then visit an agiary or a holy Fire Temple to pray for the departed souls, ending the 10 days ritual of remembering the ancestors.

This is usually followed by a special lunch with the menu comprising delicious red fish patia, salli-marghi, salli-boti, yellow-dal rice, Parsi style chicken and mutton biryanis, washed down with a variety of beverages and topped off by a selection of custards, sweetmeats, ice-creams and cakes.

The Parsi community features in Unesco&rsquo;s list of endangered communities and special efforts are being made both within the community and outside made to increase their numbers and save from possible extinction.

The miniscule Parsi community, accounting to about 68,000 worldwide, celebrates ‘Navroz’ with religious fervour, traditional pomp and feasting

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind on Wednesday greeted the Parsi community on ‘Nowruz’. “Nowruz Mubarak to the Parsi community! May the coming year further the spirit of happiness and harmony. I pray that everyone’s dreams and aspirations are fulfilled,” Modi tweeted. Navroz Mubarak to the Parsi community! May the coming year further the spirit of happiness and harmony. I pray that everyone’s dreams and aspirations are fulfilled. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 21, 2018 × President Ram Nath Kovind also tweeted saying, "Nowruz Mubarak to everybody, especially to our small, much-loved and overachieving Parsi community. May the coming year be happy and fulfilling." Navroz Mubarak to everybody, especially to our small, much-loved and overachieving Parsi community. May the coming year be happy and fulfilling #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 21, 2018 × The miniscule Parsi community, accounting to about 68,000 worldwide, celebrates ‘Nowruz’ with religious fervour, traditional pomp and feasting. The day starts with an early morning bath and prayers, purifying the homes by burning incense and donning traditional outfits specially prepared for the occasion. The families then visit an agiary or a holy Fire Temple to pray for the departed souls, ending the 10 days ritual of remembering the ancestors. This is usually followed by a special lunch with the menu comprising delicious red fish patia, salli-marghi, salli-boti, yellow-dal rice, Parsi style chicken and mutton biryanis, washed down with a variety of beverages and topped off by a selection of custards, sweetmeats, ice-creams and cakes. The Parsi community features in Unesco’s list of endangered communities and special efforts are being made both within the community and outside made to increase their numbers and save from possible extinction.

Nowruz 2018: PM Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind greet Parsi community

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