New Delhi: Australia and India are accelerating their strategic partnership, with fresh momentum in defence, maritime security and trade, Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, has said.&nbsp;In an interview to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Green described the past fortnight, featuring visits by Australia’s Foreign Minister, Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, as evidence of a relationship “going ahead very fast”. He said leaders are now working towards a new high-level defence agreement to replace the 2009 framework.&nbsp;“We have a bilateral relationship... it’s a question of how much we can harvest at this important moment,” Green said.&nbsp;Maritime cooperation featured prominently, and was mentioned 11 times in a recent joint statement after defence dialogue. Green emphasised the shared Indian Ocean geography: “Neither of us can truly understand what’s going on alone... our ambition [is] to have a maritime domain collaboration roadmap.”&nbsp;He confirmed work on a new overarching defence declaration, adding, “Leaders have challenged us to identify what our new level of defence collaboration looks like... we are shooting towards a new and high-level joint declaration.”&nbsp;On defence industry, Green noted growing interest in niche Australian technologies. “We have very unique capabilities in the fields of drones and sensors, including in the underwater space... natural complementarity” with India’s scale and manufacturing capacity.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Australia is expected to deliver “new landmarks” in defence, economics, culture and sport. Green highlighted the warm welcome awaiting the Indian Prime Minister from Australia’s Indian-origin community, now exceeding one million. “The relationship between our two Prime Ministers is really at a very high level,” he said. The diaspora acts as a “living bridge”, with Indians twice as likely to start businesses and highly engaged in community life. Cricket, Green noted, symbolises the link, Singh and Patel rank among the top names registered with Cricket Australia.&nbsp;Australia is expanding its university presence in India, with two campuses already operating and more planned. Green called it a shift from a “one-way street”, offering quality education at lower cost while maintaining student flows (around 140,000 Indians currently in Australia).&nbsp;On student visas, he defended additional scrutiny for Indian applicants as necessary for integrity, saying genuine students face “no particular problem”.&nbsp;Trade has boomed under the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). India’s exports to Australia have grown 200% in five years, five times faster than to the rest of the world.&nbsp;Negotiations for the next phase are “lively”, though Green said the focus is on a “good deal, not a quick deal”.&nbsp;Both nations are strengthening counter-terrorism and intelligence ties. Green noted Prime Minister Albanese’s swift outreach after the Pahalgam attack and Australia’s condemnation of the Mumbai incident.&nbsp;In the Quad, recent foreign ministers’ meetings advanced a maritime surveillance initiative (now including India) focused on the Indian Ocean and practical projects like a Fiji port. Green rejected talk of the Quad heading for a “dead end”, calling it “alive and kicking” with strong collegiality among the foreign ministers.&nbsp;Energy cooperation spans coal, LNG, renewables and potential uranium supplies.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Khalistani extremism, Australia reaffirmed support for India’s territorial integrity while stressing peaceful protest rights and protection of Indian diplomatic properties.&nbsp;Green welcomed India’s growing Pacific engagement, citing quick Indian aid after disasters in Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea, and said Australia is supporting it with “appropriate technologies”.&nbsp;The relationship, High Commissioner Green pointed, offers “two great batting sides” ready to score many runs together.

PM Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Australia is expected to deliver new landmarks in defence, economics, culture and sport, said High Commissioner Philip Green. He highlighted the warm welcome awaiting the Indian PM from Australia’s Indian-origin community, now exceeding one million.

New Delhi: Australia and India are accelerating their strategic partnership, with fresh momentum in defence, maritime security and trade, Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, has said. In an interview to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Green described the past fortnight, featuring visits by Australia’s Foreign Minister, Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, as evidence of a relationship “going ahead very fast”. He said leaders are now working towards a new high-level defence agreement to replace the 2009 framework. “We have a bilateral relationship... it’s a question of how much we can harvest at this important moment,” Green said. Maritime cooperation featured prominently, and was mentioned 11 times in a recent joint statement after defence dialogue. Green emphasised the shared Indian Ocean geography: “Neither of us can truly understand what’s going on alone... our ambition [is] to have a maritime domain collaboration roadmap.” He confirmed work on a new overarching defence declaration, adding, “Leaders have challenged us to identify what our new level of defence collaboration looks like... we are shooting towards a new and high-level joint declaration.” On defence industry, Green noted growing interest in niche Australian technologies. “We have very unique capabilities in the fields of drones and sensors, including in the underwater space... natural complementarity” with India’s scale and manufacturing capacity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Australia is expected to deliver “new landmarks” in defence, economics, culture and sport. Green highlighted the warm welcome awaiting the Indian Prime Minister from Australia’s Indian-origin community, now exceeding one million. “The relationship between our two Prime Ministers is really at a very high level,” he said. The diaspora acts as a “living bridge”, with Indians twice as likely to start businesses and highly engaged in community life. Cricket, Green noted, symbolises the link, Singh and Patel rank among the top names registered with Cricket Australia. Australia is expanding its university presence in India, with two campuses already operating and more planned. Green called it a shift from a “one-way street”, offering quality education at lower cost while maintaining student flows (around 140,000 Indians currently in Australia). On student visas, he defended additional scrutiny for Indian applicants as necessary for integrity, saying genuine students face “no particular problem”. Trade has boomed under the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). India’s exports to Australia have grown 200% in five years, five times faster than to the rest of the world. Negotiations for the next phase are “lively”, though Green said the focus is on a “good deal, not a quick deal”. Both nations are strengthening counter-terrorism and intelligence ties. Green noted Prime Minister Albanese’s swift outreach after the Pahalgam attack and Australia’s condemnation of the Mumbai incident. In the Quad, recent foreign ministers’ meetings advanced a maritime surveillance initiative (now including India) focused on the Indian Ocean and practical projects like a Fiji port. Green rejected talk of the Quad heading for a “dead end”, calling it “alive and kicking” with strong collegiality among the foreign ministers. Energy cooperation spans coal, LNG, renewables and potential uranium supplies. On Khalistani extremism, Australia reaffirmed support for India’s territorial integrity while stressing peaceful protest rights and protection of Indian diplomatic properties. Green welcomed India’s growing Pacific engagement, citing quick Indian aid after disasters in Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea, and said Australia is supporting it with “appropriate technologies”. The relationship, High Commissioner Green pointed, offers “two great batting sides” ready to score many runs together.

PM Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Australia is expected to deliver new landmarks in defence, economics, culture and sport, said High Commissioner Philip Green. He highlighted the warm welcome awaiting the Indian PM from Australia’s Indian-origin community, now exceeding one million.

‘New landmarks’ ahead in ties as PM Modi prepares for Australia trip, says Australian high commissioner Philip Green

US President Donald Trump made a surprise audio call during the US Embassy’s 250th Independence Day celebrations in New Delhi and, expressing his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, called him ‘great’ and added, “I am a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi.”“I just want to say hello to everybody. I love the prime minister. Modi is great. He’s my friend,” the US President said.&nbsp;Trump further praised India, saying, “We’ve never been closer to India, and India can count on me 100% and our country. If they ever need help, they know who they call. They call right here. We’re doing well. We’re setting records. We have a record economy, a record stock market, and anything India wants again. And I’m a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-trump-agreed-final-agreement-with-iran-must-remove-nuclear-danger-says-netanyahu-1779638705604">‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;I love the Prime Minister. Modi is great… I’m a big fan of PM Modi,&quot; says US President Donald Trump during a phone call facilitated by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor at the 250th Independence Day celebration in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/rqfNoL7eOq">pic.twitter.com/rqfNoL7eOq</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2058579167021854980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking to US Ambassador Sergi Gor, Trump said, “... You have to be a representative of our country, Sergio. But I just want to say hello to everybody. I love the Prime Minister. Modi is great. He’s my friend.“We have never been closer to India. And India can count on me 100 per cent and our country,” Trump said as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stood in front of a giant screen installed at the event.&nbsp;“I know you’re going to represent us well. Everybody, enjoy your evening. And it’s an honour to talk and say hello to Prime Minister Modi. And let him know I’m a big fan.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-hormuz-traffic-will-return-to-pre-war-levels-within-30-days-after-deal-1779633685669">Iran says Hormuz traffic will return to pre-war levels within 30 days after deal</a><h2>India-US partnership continues to deepen under Trump and Modi: Gor</h2>&nbsp;Speaking at the event, the US envoy said the India-US partnership continues to deepen under the leadership of Trump and PM Modi.“This open path diplomacy is driven by the personal bond between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi. I hear about it every time the President and I speak. One of the first questions the President will ask is, ‘How is my friend the Prime Minister doing?’ And that is something that is important to convey. Because this relationship is not new. It’s not a year old,” Gor said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-president-pezeshkian-says-iran-ready-to-assure-world-it-s-not-seeking-nuclear-weapons-1779627310359">Iran’s president Pezeshkian says Iran ready to assure world it’s not seeking nuclear weapons</a>&nbsp;He added that the two nations were working closely on expanding economic and strategic cooperation. “As you know, we have a direct line to everybody in administration, but especially to our President that is the partnership that opens markets, drives innovation and creates high-quality jobs for both Americans and Indians. America first does not mean America alone, and every week we identify opportunities that are win, win situations for both of our nations,” Gor added.&nbsp;<h2>US envoy hints at interim trade deal soon</h2>&nbsp;Praising both leaders, the ambassador further stated, “President Trump and Prime Minister Modi are leaders who have championed a new vision for the partnership between our two nations.”Gor also hinted that an interim trade deal between the two nations may be signed soon. “This bond is the foundation of a new era. One where we’re actively delivering on the promise of our cooperation and building a future of tangible achievements. Since I arrived in New Delhi just five months ago, we have announced an interim trade deal that hopefully, in the next few weeks will get signed,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-talks-will-collapse-if-the-us-doesn-t-show-flexibility-iran-s-media-1779559398097">‘Talks will collapse if the US doesn't show flexibility’: Iran’s media</a>&nbsp;Gor described the India-US partnership as the foundation of “a new era” and highlighted recent developments in bilateral cooperation. “This bond is the foundation of a new era. We are actively delivering on the promise of our cooperation and building a future of tangible achievements,” Gor said.&nbsp;“Tonight is not only about celebrating history. It is about looking ahead to a new era of shared success driven by the extraordinary momentum in the US-India partnership.”

US Ambassador Sergi Gor said the India-US partnership continues to deepen under the leadership of President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He added that the two nations were working closely on expanding economic and strategic cooperation.

US President Donald Trump made a surprise audio call during the US Embassy’s 250th Independence Day celebrations in New Delhi and, expressing his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, called him ‘great’ and added, “I am a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi.” “I just want to say hello to everybody. I love the prime minister. Modi is great. He’s my friend,” the US President said. Trump further praised India, saying, “We’ve never been closer to India, and India can count on me 100% and our country. If they ever need help, they know who they call. They call right here. We’re doing well. We’re setting records. We have a record economy, a record stock market, and anything India wants again. And I’m a big, big fan of Prime Minister Modi.” Also Read: ‘Trump agreed final agreement with Iran must remove nuclear danger,’ says Netanyahu

US Ambassador Sergi Gor said the India-US partnership continues to deepen under the leadership of President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He added that the two nations were working closely on expanding economic and strategic cooperation.

‘India can count on me 100%. I am a big fan of PM Modi,‘ says Trump in phone call at Delhi event

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented an array of thoughtful gifts to world leaders during his five-nation tour. The gifts showcased Indian heritage, ranging from ancient art, rare textile and fine produce of fruits and millets. 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented an array of thoughtful gifts to world leaders during his five-nation tour. The gifts showcased Indian heritage, ranging from ancient art, rare textile and fine produce of fruits and millets.&nbsp;

From Shirui Lily silk stole to GI-tagged mangoes: What PM Modi gifted leaders during 5-nation tour

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi created a stir on Wednesday by calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) “traitors” and accusing them of attacking the Constitution and “selling” the country to a handful of industrialists.Addressing Congress workers in his Lok Sabha constituency Rae Bareli on Wednesday, Gandhi said, “When you go back home, when these RSS workers come to you, they will talk about Narendra Modi, they will talk about Amit Shah. You look them in the face and say, ‘Your Prime Minister is a traitor, your home minister is a traitor, your organisation is a traitor. You have worked to sell out India. You have attacked our organisation, our Constitution, BR Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi.’ Tell them this.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Raebareli, UP: LoP in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi says, &quot;When these RSS workers come before you, they will speak of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, then you must say to their faces that your Prime Minister, Home Minister, and the organisation (BJP) is… <a href="https://t.co/ulNOvN5Ilo">pic.twitter.com/ulNOvN5Ilo</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2057013095529419166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistani-officer-claims-to-have-successfully-hit-2-non-existent-airbases-in-india-with-fatah-1-missile-1779221782711">Pakistani officer claims to have hit 2 non-existent airbases in India with Fatah-1 missile</a>&nbsp;Holding up a copy of the Constitution while addressing the Bahujan Swabhiman Sammelan in Amethi, Rahul repeatedly invoked BR Ambedkar, freedom fighter Veera Pasi, Mahatma Gandhi, Guru Nanak, Kabir and Narayan Guru, and said that the Constitution embodies the collective voice and ideology of social justice icons across the country.&nbsp;“Narendra Modi ne Hindustan ka pura ka pura dhan aapki jeb se nikal liya. Hindustan ka arthik system Adani aur Ambani ko pakda diya hai (Narendra Modi has taken away the country’s wealth from your pockets. He has handed over India’s economic system to Adani and Ambani,” Gandhi alleged.&nbsp;<h2>‘Economic storm coming, could trigger unprecedented inflation and shortages’</h2>&nbsp;Reiterating his claim that an “economic storm is coming” and that “the government will not be able to save you”, the Congress MP claimed the PM would try to evade responsibility by crying before the public just like he did during the Covid-19 pandemic and demonetisation.&nbsp;On Tuesday, Rahul had claimed in Rae Bareli that the Iran vs US-Israel conflict and the situation around the Strait of Hormuz could trigger an unprecedented rise in fuel prices, inflation and shortages.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-drawing-up-plans-to-counter-high-intensity-us-strikes-if-war-resumes-1779215850724">Iran drawing up plans to counter high-intensity US strikes if war resumes</a>&nbsp;He also accused the PM of hypocrisy over economic issues. “The Prime Minister tells people not to buy gold and not to travel abroad, but then himself travels abroad in aircraft worth thousands of crores,” Gandhi said.&nbsp;He added, “Such inflation is coming that you would never have seen in your lifetime. An economic storm is coming and the government will not be able to save you.”“The Constitution said there should be a public sector, reservation and justice in the judiciary. Narendra Modi and the RSS have destroyed it,” alleged Rahul.&nbsp;<h2>‘Anarchic mindset, language of enemy nation’: BJP</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;The BJP lashed out at Rahul Gandhi and said his words reflect his anarchic mindset and character. BJP president Nitin Nabin said Gandhi’s remarks were an insult to the 140 crore people of the country and demanded an apology from him. “The kind of statement he gave clearly reflects his anarchic mindset and character. The remarks also reflect his frustration and disappointment with his party facing defeats in elections,” he said.“The man who has put a curb on terror incidents, ended Naxalism, enhanced the tiranga’s (Tricolour) respect, for such a person you will use such kinds of words?” Nabin asked.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-fresh-sanctions-on-iranian-exchange-houses-front-companies-and-shadow-fleet-vessels-1779206969619">US imposes fresh sanctions on Iranian exchange houses, front companies and shadow fleet vessels</a>&nbsp;BJP leaders said Rahul’s language mirrors that of Pakistan and terrorists supported by the country and proves that he wants to fight the Indian state.“Rahul Gandhi's language has become like that of an enemy nation. Rahul Gandhi speaks in a way that only an adversarial country would speak. Rahul Gandhi wants unrest in the country, but he should not forget that the people of this country and the youth stand with PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah,” said Union Minister Giriraj Singh.&nbsp;The Congress party is holding Bahujan Swabhiman Sammelan as part of its attempt to bolster its politics around social justice and Constitution, particularly among Dalit, backward caste and marginalised communities, ahead of the 2027 UP Assembly elections.

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said in Rae Bareli that the Iran vs US-Israel conflict and the situation around the Strait of Hormuz could trigger an unprecedented rise in fuel prices, inflation and shortages. He also accused the PM of hypocrisy.

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi created a stir on Wednesday by calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) “traitors” and accusing them of attacking the Constitution and “selling” the country to a handful of industrialists. Addressing Congress workers in his Lok Sabha constituency Rae Bareli on Wednesday, Gandhi said, “When you go back home, when these RSS workers come to you, they will talk about Narendra Modi, they will talk about Amit Shah. You look them in the face and say, ‘Your Prime Minister is a traitor, your home minister is a traitor, your organisation is a traitor. You have worked to sell out India. You have attacked our organisation, our Constitution, BR Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi.’ Tell them this.”

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said in Rae Bareli that the Iran vs US-Israel conflict and the situation around the Strait of Hormuz could trigger an unprecedented rise in fuel prices, inflation and shortages. He also accused the PM of hypocrisy.

Modi, Amit Shah traitors, sold country to industrialists, says Rahul Gandhi; BJP slams ‘language of enemy nation’

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took it to X to share a photo of herself and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Italy. The post was captioned, ''Welcome to Rome, my friend!" Besides this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented with a painting depicting the ghats of Varanasi during his visit to Italy, the final stop of his five-nation tour. Artists also performed a traditional musical piece to welcome the Indian Prime Minister. One of the performers said, “We played the traditional tune based on Raga Hamsadhwani, and we made a composition together with all the musicians, creating this piece together for the Prime Minister of India.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Welcome to Rome, my friend! 🇮🇹🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/mUjFL4HIqY">pic.twitter.com/mUjFL4HIqY</a>&mdash; Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/2056847819156099504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The artist added, “I feel full of energy and motivated to spread more of the Indian values and the Indian arts in Italy and all over Europe.” Earlier, PM Modi arrived in Rome on Tuesday (May 19) for the final leg of his five-nation tour. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet Italian President Sergio Mattarella, hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and participate in diplomatic engagements before departing for India on Wednesday.&nbsp;In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Landed in Rome, Italy. I will be meeting President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and holding discussions with them. This visit will focus on how to boost India-Italy cooperation, especially focusing on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 will also be reviewed. I will also be visiting the Headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and strengthening India’s commitment to multilateralism as well as global food security.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/minab-school-strike-us-probe-into-strike-nears-end-amid-war-crime-allegations-iran-denies-washington-claim-as-baseless-fabrication-1779231461898">Minab school strike: US probe into strike nears end amid war crime allegations; Iran denies Washington claim as ‘baseless fabrication’</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnesses a cultural performance as he arrives at a hotel in Rome, Italy (Source: ANI/DD) <a href="https://t.co/QH5f15y9P8">pic.twitter.com/QH5f15y9P8</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2056855707459485823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

PM Modi had previously visited Italy in June 2024 to attend the G7 Summit. Before arriving in Rome, the prime minister was in Oslo, where he participated in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit and held engagements aimed at strengthening India’s partnership with Nordic nations. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a post on X, said, “PM Narendra Modi departs from Oslo after a successful visit encompassing important outcomes which open a new chapter in India-Nordic and India-Norway partnerships. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emplanes for Rome for his last leg of the 5-country visit.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-to-restore-pre-partition-names-of-lahore-streets-1779213678917/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-to-restore-pre-partition-names-of-lahore-streets-1779213678917/embed</a>&nbsp;During the summit in Oslo, PM Modi met leaders from Denmark, Norway, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden. Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in green technology, climate action, trade, innovation, artificial intelligence, Arctic research, and defence collaboration. India and the Nordic countries also elevated their ties to a “Green Technology and Innovation Strategic Partnership”, reaffirming their commitment to deeper cooperation based on shared democratic values and sustainable development goals. Norway marked the fourth leg of Prime Minister Modi’s five-nation visit. Before visiting Oslo, he had travelled to the United Arab Emirates, the Netherlands, and Sweden.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets the members of the Indian diaspora and people gathered to welcome him at the hotel he is staying at in Rome, Italy (Source: ANI/DD) <a href="https://t.co/563g69UkGE">pic.twitter.com/563g69UkGE</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2056851751366799711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

PM Narendra Modi received a painting of Varanasi ghats during his visit to Italy in Rome, where artists welcomed him with a traditional Raga Hamsadhwani performance. Modi will hold talks with Giorgia Meloni and Sergio Mattarella, focusing on IMEC, strategic cooperation, and global food security

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took it to X to share a photo of herself and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Italy. The post was captioned, ''Welcome to Rome, my friend!" Besides this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented with a painting depicting the ghats of Varanasi during his visit to Italy, the final stop of his five-nation tour. Artists also performed a traditional musical piece to welcome the Indian Prime Minister. One of the performers said, “We played the traditional tune based on Raga Hamsadhwani, and we made a composition together with all the musicians, creating this piece together for the Prime Minister of India.”

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shares a photo with Indian PM Modi after he landed in Italy for the final leg of the five-nation tour

'Welcome to Rome, my friend!': Meloni shares photo with PM Modi after his arrival in Italy

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a brief visit to the UAE on 15 May. Here is a look at all the important agreements spanning energy, defence, and capital investment signed between the two countries.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a brief visit to the UAE on 15 May. Here is a look at all the important agreements spanning energy, defence, and capital investment signed between the two countries.

Short trip, long-term outcomes: Important agreements PM Modi signed on his UAE visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again strongly condemned the attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates during delegation-level talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Friday, as the two leaders reviewed regional developments, strategic cooperation and the security situation amid ongoing tensions in West Asia. “I held excellent discussions with my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; where I renewed my emphasis on our condemnation of the attacks that targeted the United Arab Emirates in the strongest terms,” PM Modi wrote on X after the meeting.&nbsp;The Prime Minister also praised the UAE President’s leadership during the ongoing regional crisis. “I also expressed my appreciation for the leadership, courage, and wisdom with which my brother is endowed—qualities that have been clearly manifested throughout this period,” he said.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-fm-araghchi-says-tehran-never-wanted-nuclear-weapons-says-enriched-uranium-issue-postponed-in-us-talk-1778842632157">Iranian FM Araghchi says Tehran 'never wanted nuclear weapons', says enriched uranium issue postponed in US talk</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Modi reiterated India’s support for peace and stability in the region, stating during the talks: "We strongly condemn the attacks launched on the UAE. The manner in which UAE has been targeted is not acceptable in any form."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">أجريتُ مباحثاتٍ ممتازة مع أخي، صاحب السمو الشيخ محمد بن زايد آل نهيان؛ حيث جددتُ التأكيد على إدانتنا للهجمات التي استهدفت دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة بأشد العبارات. كما أعربتُ عن تقديري لما يتحلى به أخي من قيادةٍ وشجاعةٍ وحكمة، وهي خصالٌ تجلّت بوضوحٍ طوال هذه الفترة. وعبرتُ… <a href="https://t.co/gLYFz69Leh">pic.twitter.com/gLYFz69Leh</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2055241967806902636?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Ceremonial welcome and strategic partnership</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The Prime Minister arrived in Abu Dhabi on the first leg of his six-day diplomatic tour, which will also include visits to the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy. Modi was received personally by Sheikh Mohamed at the Presidential Airport and accorded a ceremonial welcome, including a guard of honour. UAE F-16 fighter jets escorted the Prime Minister’s aircraft as it entered Emirati airspace. The two leaders held extensive discussions on strengthening the India-UAE comprehensive strategic partnership, with a focus on trade, energy and wider economic cooperation. The leaders discussed energy cooperation and bilateral trade amid supply disruptions linked to the West Asia conflict. The countries also signed an MoU for a ship repair cluster at Vadinar, while the UAE announced investments worth $5 billion in Indian infrastructure, RBL Bank and Samman Capital.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fm-says-strait-of-hormuz-open-to-all-vessels-except-nations-at-war-with-us-says-tehran-has-no-trust-in-us-1778839987625">Iran FM says Strait of Hormuz open to all vessels except nations 'at war with us'; says Tehran has 'no trust in US'</a>&nbsp;“I discussed with my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, ways to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the UAE, and to strengthen ties in sectors such as trade, energy, and others,” &nbsp;Modi said earlier in a post on X.&nbsp;<h2>Focus on Indian diaspora and regional stability</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>PM Modi also thanked the UAE leadership for its continued support towards the Indian community living in the Emirates, one of the largest expatriate populations in the Gulf region. “Likewise, I expressed my gratitude for the care and attention that His Highness devotes to the Indian community residing in the United Arab Emirates,” the Prime Minister said.The visit comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions across West Asia, with India and the UAE continuing to emphasise diplomatic engagement, strategic coordination and regional stability.&nbsp;

The countries also signed an MoU for a ship repair cluster at Vadinar, while the UAE announced investments worth $5 billion in Indian infrastructure, RBL Bank and Samman Capital.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi once again strongly condemned the attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates during delegation-level talks with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi on Friday, as the two leaders reviewed regional developments, strategic cooperation and the security situation amid ongoing tensions in West Asia. “I held excellent discussions with my brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; where I renewed my emphasis on our condemnation of the attacks that targeted the United Arab Emirates in the strongest terms,” PM Modi wrote on X after the meeting. The Prime Minister also praised the UAE President’s leadership during the ongoing regional crisis. “I also expressed my appreciation for the leadership, courage, and wisdom with which my brother is endowed—qualities that have been clearly manifested throughout this period,” he said. ALSO READ: Iranian FM Araghchi says Tehran 'never wanted nuclear weapons', says enriched uranium issue postponed in US talk Modi reiterated India’s support for peace and stability in the region, stating during the talks: "We strongly condemn the attacks launched on the UAE. The manner in which UAE has been targeted is not acceptable in any form."

The countries also signed an MoU for a ship repair cluster at Vadinar, while the UAE announced investments worth $5 billion in Indian infrastructure, RBL Bank and Samman Capital.

PM Modi renews condemnation of attacks on UAE after high-level discussions with President

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled states across India have started implementing austerity and fuel-conservation measures after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged governments and citizens to adopt energy-saving practices amid growing global uncertainty over fuel supplies and rising geopolitical tensions. The coordinated response from BJP chief ministers comes at a time when international crude oil markets remain volatile due to instability in the Middle East and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. India, which imports a significant portion of its crude oil requirements, is closely monitoring the situation as concerns over energy security intensify.&nbsp;Following the Prime Minister’s appeal, several BJP-led state governments have announced measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption, cutting government expenditure, and promoting more sustainable transportation practices. In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to immediately reduce the use of VIP convoys and government vehicles by 50 percent. Departments have also been instructed to limit unnecessary travel, encourage virtual meetings wherever possible, and adopt fuel-saving protocols in official operations.&nbsp;The Uttar Pradesh government’s move is being seen as one of the strongest responses to PM Modi’s call, reflecting concerns over both fiscal discipline and long-term energy management. In Delhi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced a similar push focused on reducing the use of official vehicles and encouraging ministers and government staff to use public transportation, shared mobility, and carpooling systems. Officials in Delhi said the measures are intended not only to reduce fuel consumption but also to send a public message on responsible governance during a period of global uncertainty.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-files-fir-in-neet-ug-2026-paper-leak-multi-state-syndicate-exposed-1778609461848">CBI files FIR in NEET-UG 2026 paper leak; multi-state syndicate exposed</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BJP chief ministers across states echo PM Modi’s austerity push amid global energy uncertainty UP CM Yogi Adityanath orders 50% cut in official fleet, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta pushes public transport and carpooling, while Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav urges fuel conservation <a href="https://t.co/JPdR2Ib6Pc">pic.twitter.com/JPdR2Ib6Pc</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2054262555544350999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Delhi government is also exploring ways to optimise official travel schedules and reduce non-essential movement within departments. Meanwhile, in Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav cut the size of his official convoy from 13 vehicles to eight, presenting the move as part of a broader effort to support fuel conservation and reduce government expenditure. State officials said departments in Madhya Pradesh have also been encouraged to adopt energy-saving measures in daily operations and spread awareness about responsible fuel usage among citizens.&nbsp;The austerity drive in Madhya Pradesh drew additional attention after a High Court judge reportedly chose to cycle to court following PM Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation. The symbolic move quickly gained traction on social media, with many users describing it as a strong example of public leadership and environmental responsibility. Political observers note that the synchronized responses from BJP-ruled states reflect an effort to align governance with the Prime Minister’s messaging on economic discipline, sustainability, and national preparedness during uncertain global conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-meet-first-visit-to-china-by-a-us-president-in-nearly-a-decade-1778636288909/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/trump-xi-meet-first-visit-to-china-by-a-us-president-in-nearly-a-decade-1778636288909/embed</a>&nbsp;The developments also come as fuel prices, shipping costs, and global energy supply chains remain under pressure due to continuing geopolitical tensions, especially in the Middle East. Any prolonged disruption in global oil movement could significantly impact fuel-importing nations such as India. Experts say measures such as reducing official vehicle fleets, promoting public transportation, and encouraging shared mobility may have a limited immediate impact on overall fuel consumption but carry strong symbolic and administrative value.&nbsp;The BJP’s austerity push is also being viewed as an attempt to project a governance model centered on efficiency, cost-cutting, and public participation during periods of economic and geopolitical strain. Several state governments are expected to announce additional fuel-saving and energy-efficiency measures in the coming days as India continues monitoring global developments in the energy market.

BJP-ruled states respond to PM Narendra Modi’s fuel-saving appeal with convoy cuts, public transport pushes, and austerity measures amid global energy uncertainty

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled states across India have started implementing austerity and fuel-conservation measures after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged governments and citizens to adopt energy-saving practices amid growing global uncertainty over fuel supplies and rising geopolitical tensions. The coordinated response from BJP chief ministers comes at a time when international crude oil markets remain volatile due to instability in the Middle East and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. India, which imports a significant portion of its crude oil requirements, is closely monitoring the situation as concerns over energy security intensify. Following the Prime Minister’s appeal, several BJP-led state governments have announced measures aimed at reducing fuel consumption, cutting government expenditure, and promoting more sustainable transportation practices. In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to immediately reduce the use of VIP convoys and government vehicles by 50 percent. Departments have also been instructed to limit unnecessary travel, encourage virtual meetings wherever possible, and adopt fuel-saving protocols in official operations. The Uttar Pradesh government’s move is being seen as one of the strongest responses to PM Modi’s call, reflecting concerns over both fiscal discipline and long-term energy management. In Delhi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced a similar push focused on reducing the use of official vehicles and encouraging ministers and government staff to use public transportation, shared mobility, and carpooling systems. Officials in Delhi said the measures are intended not only to reduce fuel consumption but also to send a public message on responsible governance during a period of global uncertainty. Also Read: CBI files FIR in NEET-UG 2026 paper leak; multi-state syndicate exposed

BJP chief ministers of several states cut convoys, promote public transport, and fuel saving after PM Narendra Modi’s austerity and energy conservation appeal

After PM Modi's appeal, BJP CMs roll out fuel-saving measures amid global energy uncertainty

India and New Zealand on Monday (April 27) signed the long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic ties. The pact is set to come into force later this year after ratification by New Zealand’s Parliament, while negotiations for the agreement had formally begun in March 2025 during the visit of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who described it as a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to expand trade, investment flows and labour mobility between the two countries.&nbsp;Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay signed the agreement, which is being described as one of India’s fastest concluded bilateral trade deals. Under the pact, New Zealand has committed to invest around $20 billion in India over the next 15 years while easing trade barriers and simplifying regulatory standards.<h2>FTA details: Duty-free access, trade boost and mobility provisions</h2>The India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) provides significant market access for Indian exporters, granting 100 per cent duty-free access to as many as 8,284 export products once the pact comes into force. In the initial phase, nearly 70 per cent of Indian goods, including leather, handloom and handicrafts, will enter the New Zealand market without tariffs, improving competitiveness and expanding export opportunities.&nbsp;On the other hand, New Zealand will eliminate or reduce tariffs on key exports to India, such as wool, wood, coal, wine and fruits, providing a boost to its agricultural and export sectors. However, India has kept several sensitive sectors, including dairy, onions, sugar, spices and edible oils, outside the agreement to safeguard domestic farmers and industry interests.&nbsp;The agreement sets an ambitious target of doubling bilateral trade to around 5 billion dollars over the next five years, marking a sharp rise from current levels and signalling stronger economic engagement between the two countries.&nbsp;In terms of investment, New Zealand has committed to invest up to $20 billion in India over a 15-year period, with expected inflows across sectors such as services, manufacturing and technology, which could strengthen infrastructure, innovation and job creation.&nbsp;The FTA also focuses on labour mobility and employment opportunities. It includes visa provisions for up to 5,000 Indian professionals and 1,000 work and holiday visas annually, covering sectors such as IT, healthcare, construction and education.&nbsp; Additionally, Indian students will benefit from expanded post-study work opportunities, making the agreement a key driver of skill development and global exposure.&nbsp;<h3>PM Modi calls FTA a historic milestone for growth</h3>&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the agreement a “historic milestone” in India’s journey towards deeper global engagement and shared prosperity. He said the pact reflects a strengthening economic partnership and shared values between the two democracies.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In a message, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> said that the India-New Zealand FTA marks a major milestone towards deeper global engagement and shared prosperity. It strengthens economic ties between two vibrant democracies, unlocking opportunities for farmers, artisans, youth, entrepreneurs,… <a href="https://t.co/zglAERVVcj">pic.twitter.com/zglAERVVcj</a>&mdash; PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/2048721218174603574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He underscored that the agreement will create "new opportunities for our farmers, artisans, youth, entrepreneurs, women and MSMEs, unlocking pathways for global market access and enterprise across sectors, from agriculture and manufacturing to technology, education and services."&nbsp;The Prime Minister added that the Make in India initiative aligns with New Zealand’s $20 billion investment commitment, which will boost startups, innovation, and job creation while accelerating growth across sectors.

The agreement will require ratification by both countries before it can be implemented, with India expected to complete the process through executive approval, while New Zealand will require parliamentary clearance, which could take several months.

India and New Zealand on Monday (April 27) signed the long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral economic ties. The pact is set to come into force later this year after ratification by New Zealand’s Parliament, while negotiations for the agreement had formally begun in March 2025 during the visit of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who described it as a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to expand trade, investment flows and labour mobility between the two countries. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay signed the agreement, which is being described as one of India’s fastest concluded bilateral trade deals. Under the pact, New Zealand has committed to invest around $20 billion in India over the next 15 years while easing trade barriers and simplifying regulatory standards. FTA details: Duty-free access, trade boost and mobility provisions The India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) provides significant market access for Indian exporters, granting 100 per cent duty-free access to as many as 8,284 export products once the pact comes into force. In the initial phase, nearly 70 per cent of Indian goods, including leather, handloom and handicrafts, will enter the New Zealand market without tariffs, improving competitiveness and expanding export opportunities. On the other hand, New Zealand will eliminate or reduce tariffs on key exports to India, such as wool, wood, coal, wine and fruits, providing a boost to its agricultural and export sectors. However, India has kept several sensitive sectors, including dairy, onions, sugar, spices and edible oils, outside the agreement to safeguard domestic farmers and industry interests. The agreement sets an ambitious target of doubling bilateral trade to around 5 billion dollars over the next five years, marking a sharp rise from current levels and signalling stronger economic engagement between the two countries. In terms of investment, New Zealand has committed to invest up to $20 billion in India over a 15-year period, with expected inflows across sectors such as services, manufacturing and technology, which could strengthen infrastructure, innovation and job creation. The FTA also focuses on labour mobility and employment opportunities. It includes visa provisions for up to 5,000 Indian professionals and 1,000 work and holiday visas annually, covering sectors such as IT, healthcare, construction and education. Additionally, Indian students will benefit from expanded post-study work opportunities, making the agreement a key driver of skill development and global exposure. PM Modi calls FTA a historic milestone for growth Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the agreement a “historic milestone” in India’s journey towards deeper global engagement and shared prosperity. He said the pact reflects a strengthening economic partnership and shared values between the two democracies.

The agreement will require ratification by both countries before it can be implemented, with India expected to complete the process through executive approval, while New Zealand will require parliamentary clearance, which could take several months.

India–New Zealand sign ‘historic’ FTA: $20 bn investment, trade and mobility to expand

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday ripped into the Trinamool Congress party, saying it has betrayed its own slogan of ‘Maa, Mati, Manush’ during its rule in West Bengal. “Ma is crying, ‘maati’ is with infiltrators, and ‘maanush’ is forced to migrate," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing a rally in Bangaon ahead of the second phase of the election in Bengal, PM Modi hit out at the key constituency of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, listing sexual assaults on women since the party “came to power 15 years ago”.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">From Bangaon to Barrackpore, several jute mills and factories have shut down over the past 15 years. In West Bengal, only the TMC-backed syndicate, cut-money and commission raj have flourished. <a href="https://t.co/eWKSPdhiAi">pic.twitter.com/eWKSPdhiAi</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2048372597226651728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aap-petitions-rajya-sabha-chairman-seeking-termination-of-7-mps-who-switched-to-bjp-1777201688283">AAP sends petition to Rajya Sabha chairman seeking termination of 7 MPs who switched to BJP</a>&nbsp;The Trinamool has failed to ensure security for the women in Bengal, the PM said, listing sexual assault cases, including the rape and murder of the young doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar hospital and the gang rape and murder of a 20-year-old in Kamduni, just 20 km from the state capital.&nbsp;The BJP has been targeting women voters since the 2024 Lok Sabha election when the sexual exploitation of women in Sandeshkhali hit the headlines.&nbsp;PM Modi said on Sunday that “every sister and daughter of Bengal has now risen against the merciless Trinamool government and we saw a glimpse of this in the first phase of voting.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anna-hazare-holds-aap-leadership-responsible-for-exit-of-raghav-chadha-6-other-mps-1777121786506">Anna Hazare holds AAP leadership responsible for exit of Raghav Chadha, 6 other MPs</a><h2>‘This merciless govt protects the goons and blames daughters’</h2>&nbsp;“Every day, there are reports of rape, gang rape, and murder. In their 15-year reign of lawlessness, many major incidents of rape and murder have occurred: the RG Kar Medical College rape and murder, Kasba Law College rape, Park Street gang rape, Hanskhali rape and murder, Kamduni gang rape, Durgapur Medical College rape case,” he said.&nbsp;“And in most cases, Trinamool leaders are involved... This merciless government protects the goons and, instead, blames the daughters... After June 4, there will be an account of every goon, every oppressor, and every corrupt person of Trinamool Congress,” PM added.&nbsp;Women have been supporters of Bengal CM, who introduced a number of schemes for them over the years, including Lakshmir Bhandar (monthly cash transfers), Kanyashree (financial assistance for education), Rupashree (assistance for wedding) and vocational training under ‘Muktir Alo Yojana’.&nbsp;<h2>Record voter turnout shows people’s anger, says Modi</h2>&nbsp;Addressing a public gathering in Haripal, PM Narendra Modi said, “This time Bengal will break all records of voting, and my brothers and sisters of Bengal have demonstrated this on April 23... Those who couldn't gauge the mood of the people are very surprised, and for some, it has completely ruined their sleep.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-us-of-energy-grab-says-iran-and-venezuela-military-actions-only-about-oil-1777115468087">Russia accuses US of energy grab, says Iran and Venezuela military actions only ‘about oil’</a><h2>PM invokes ‘Mother Durga’ imagery</h2>&nbsp;“For 15 years, TMC intimidated the people of Bengal. But these people forgot one thing. When oppression reaches its limit, the public takes the form of Mother Durga and immerses injustice. Today, the surging crowds at every booth in Bengal are saying, ‘Fear out, trust in’,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">আজ বনগাঁ থেকে ডঙ্কা বাজিয়ে অনুপ্রবেশকারীদেরও আমি এই হুঁশিয়ারি দিতে চাই... <a href="https://t.co/Pq0ycgxESa">pic.twitter.com/Pq0ycgxESa</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2048406538658951314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-s-defence-minister-sadio-camara-killed-in-garrison-town-of-kati-amid-coordinated-attacks-across-nation-1777208275226">Mali’s Defence Minister Sadio Camara killed in garrison town of Kati amid coordinated attacks across nation</a><h2>‘Leave before Phase 2 polling’: PM warns infiltrators</h2>&nbsp;PM Modi also raised the issue of illegal infiltration while addressing an election rally. “I warn infiltrators to leave this country before 2nd phase of Bengal polls, else they will be thrown out after the results.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Bengal voted overwhelmingly in the first phase, with the turnout figure crossing 91 per cent. The next phase of polling will be held on April 29 and the counting of votes will be held on May 4.&nbsp;

The Trinamool has failed to ensure security for the women in Bengal, PM Narendra Modi said, listing sexual assault cases, including the rape and murder of the young doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar hospital and the gang rape and murder of a 20-year-old in Kamduni, just 20 km from Kolkata.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday ripped into the Trinamool Congress party, saying it has betrayed its own slogan of ‘Maa, Mati, Manush’ during its rule in West Bengal. “Ma is crying, ‘maati’ is with infiltrators, and ‘maanush’ is forced to migrate," he added. Addressing a rally in Bangaon ahead of the second phase of the election in Bengal, PM Modi hit out at the key constituency of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, listing sexual assaults on women since the party “came to power 15 years ago”.

The Trinamool has failed to ensure security for the women in Bengal, PM Narendra Modi said, listing sexual assault cases, including the rape and murder of the young doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar hospital and the gang rape and murder of a 20-year-old in Kamduni, just 20 km from Kolkata.

‘Maa’ crying, ‘maati’ with infiltrators, ‘maanush’ forced to migrate’: PM Modi slams TMC in rallies across Bengal

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Apr 22) paid tribute to the 26 people who lost their lives in the horrifying Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Reiterating India's firm resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms, the PM expressed solidarity with families who lost their loved ones a year ago, and said that the country stands determined to dismantle "the heinous designs of terrorists." One year ago today, on April 22, 2025, the tragic Pakistan-backed terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's popular tourist spot Pahalgam claimed the lives of 26 innocent people. Following the terror attack, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Subsequently, after a four-day conflict between the two countries, a ceasefire was achieved on May 10.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pahalgam-terror-attack-india-marks-first-anniversary-of-pahalgam-terror-attack-1776830358499/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pahalgam-terror-attack-india-marks-first-anniversary-of-pahalgam-terror-attack-1776830358499/embed</a>&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-india-does-not-forget-what-happened-on-april-22-in-pahalgam-and-how-it-drew-red-line-against-terror-1776798965317">‘India does not forget’: What happened on April 22 in Pahalgam and how did it draw red line against terror?</a><h2>Remembering the innocent lives lost</h2>In a post on X, Modi paid tribute to the "innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack" on this day last year. "They will never be forgotten," he said, adding that his thoughts are with the bereaved families."As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to any form of terror. The heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed," the PM wrote.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-attack-what-changed-in-one-year-and-how-a-town-is-learning-to-heal-1776829145096">Pahalgam attack: What changed in one year and how a town is learning to heal</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Remembering the innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack on this day last year. They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are also with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss. As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2046770966685163989?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Indian army hails 'decisive response'</h2>Recalling Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army also issued a strong message against terrorism. &nbsp;"When boundaries of humanity are crossed, the response is decisive. Justice is Served. India Stands United," the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) of the Indian Army said in a post on X, accompanied by a graphic message stating, "Some boundaries should never be crossed. India does not forget."

On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, Narendra Modi paid tribute to 26 victims, vowing India will never bow to terror. The nation also recalled Operation Sindoor and its response.

Scroll down to read more.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday (Apr 22) paid tribute to the 26 people who lost their lives in the horrifying Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Reiterating India's firm resolve to combat terrorism in all its forms, the PM expressed solidarity with families who lost their loved ones a year ago, and said that the country stands determined to dismantle "the heinous designs of terrorists." One year ago today, on April 22, 2025, the tragic Pakistan-backed terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's popular tourist spot Pahalgam claimed the lives of 26 innocent people. Following the terror attack, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Subsequently, after a four-day conflict between the two countries, a ceasefire was achieved on May 10. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pahalgam-terror-attack-india-marks-first-anniversary-of-pahalgam-terror-attack-1776830358499/embed Also read | ‘India does not forget’: What happened on April 22 in Pahalgam and how did it draw red line against terror? Remembering the innocent lives lost In a post on X, Modi paid tribute to the "innocent lives lost in the gruesome Pahalgam terror attack" on this day last year. "They will never be forgotten," he said, adding that his thoughts are with the bereaved families. "As a nation, we stand united in grief and resolve. India will never bow to any form of terror. The heinous designs of terrorists will never succeed," the PM wrote. Also read | Pahalgam attack: What changed in one year and how a town is learning to heal

On the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terror attack, Narendra Modi paid tribute to 26 victims, vowing India will never bow to terror. The nation also recalled Operation Sindoor and its response.Scroll down to read more.

'Some boundaries should never be crossed': PM Modi pays tribute to 26 victims on Pahalgam terror attack anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 8.30 pm on Saturday. The government and the ruling party have not yet shared anything about the subject the PM may speak about, but it is likely that he will dwell on the issue of implementing the women’s quota and the developments in Parliament, where opposition parties voted against the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill.&nbsp;The PM’s address to the nation comes a day after a major setback for the NDA government in the Lok Sabha, where the Constitution Amendment Bill linked to the Women’s Reservation policy failed to pass.&nbsp;&nbsp;The proposed legislation, tied to the implementation of women’s reservation through delimitation, required a two-thirds majority but fell short after a lengthy and heated debate.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-has-suspended-nuclear-programme-deal-to-end-war-mostly-complete-says-trump-1776450628924">Iran has suspended nuclear programme, deal to end war ‘mostly complete,’ says Trump</a>&nbsp;In the voting, 298 members supported the bill, while 230 opposed it, resulting in its defeat. The voting outcome is a rare legislative loss for the government on a key reform measure it had been pushing.&nbsp;PM Modi’s last address to the nation was on September 21, when he spoke about GST reforms.&nbsp;Under the bill, Lok Sabha seats were to be increased up to 816 from the current 543 to ‘operationalise’ the women’s reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census.&nbsp;A two-thirds majority was needed to pass the bill, but the NDA could not muster the numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-will-get-all-of-iran-s-nuclear-dust-won-t-pay-anything-for-it-1776442071680">Trump says US will get all of Iran’s ‘nuclear dust’, won’t pay anything for it</a><h2>Opposition blocking women’s reservation, says Amit Shah</h2>&nbsp;Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused the opposition of blocking women’s reservation, while opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, maintained that they support the quota but oppose its linkage to delimitation.&nbsp;Union parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju on Saturday said that the defeat of the women’s reservation bill in the Lok Sabha should not be viewed as a failure of the government and accused the Congress party of causing a big setback to the country. Addressing a press conference after the conclusion of the Budget session, Rijiju said that the opposition will have to bear the brunt of being anti-women.&nbsp;“The Budget Session was extended for three days April 16, 17, 18 during which Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and Delimitation Bill were introduced. We have the majority, but we didn’t get the 2/3rd majority needed for Constitution Amendment,” Rijiju said. “Congress will have to face the anger of women; celebrating women’s defeat is proof of their anti-women mindset,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-s-state-media-slam-foreign-minister-araghchi-s-hormuz-tweet-say-it-let-trump-claim-victory-1776457471014">Iran’s state media slam Foreign Minister Araghchi’s Hormuz tweet, say it let Trump claim victory</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Victory of democracy’: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</h2>&nbsp;Earlier, addressing a press conference, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that Centre was planning to stay in power using women. She hailed the defeat of the Delimitation Bill as a “victory of democracy” and accused the Centre of hatching a conspiracy to alter the federal structure of the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;BJP leader Smriti Irani lashed out at Congress MPs celebrating the defeat of the bill and accused the party of crushing the aspirations of ordinary women in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strait-of-hormuz-completely-open-for-all-commercial-vessels-for-remaining-ceasefire-iran-fm-araghchi-1776431393427">Iran says Strait of Hormuz ‘completely open’; Trump thanks, says naval blockade to continue till deal</a>&nbsp;“The Congress party appeared self-congratulatory, smiling and thumping desks, celebrating what was portrayed as having crushed the aspirations of ordinary women in this country,” she added.&nbsp;&nbsp;The BJP has accused opposition parties of blocking a historic reform aimed at ensuring 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies.&nbsp;

The proposed legislation, tied to the implementation of women’s reservation through delimitation, required a two-thirds majority but fell short after a lengthy and heated debate. In the voting, 298 members supported the bill, while 230 opposed it, resulting in its defeat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation at 8.30 pm on Saturday. The government and the ruling party have not yet shared anything about the subject the PM may speak about, but it is likely that he will dwell on the issue of implementing the women’s quota and the developments in Parliament, where opposition parties voted against the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill. The PM’s address to the nation comes a day after a major setback for the NDA government in the Lok Sabha, where the Constitution Amendment Bill linked to the Women’s Reservation policy failed to pass. The proposed legislation, tied to the implementation of women’s reservation through delimitation, required a two-thirds majority but fell short after a lengthy and heated debate. Also Read: Iran has suspended nuclear programme, deal to end war ‘mostly complete,’ says Trump In the voting, 298 members supported the bill, while 230 opposed it, resulting in its defeat. The voting outcome is a rare legislative loss for the government on a key reform measure it had been pushing. PM Modi’s last address to the nation was on September 21, when he spoke about GST reforms. Under the bill, Lok Sabha seats were to be increased up to 816 from the current 543 to ‘operationalise’ the women’s reservation law before the 2029 parliamentary polls, following a delimitation exercise based on the 2011 Census. A two-thirds majority was needed to pass the bill, but the NDA could not muster the numbers. Also Read: Trump says US will get all of Iran’s ‘nuclear dust’, won’t pay anything for it Opposition blocking women’s reservation, says Amit Shah Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused the opposition of blocking women’s reservation, while opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, maintained that they support the quota but oppose its linkage to delimitation. Union parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju on Saturday said that the defeat of the women’s reservation bill in the Lok Sabha should not be viewed as a failure of the government and accused the Congress party of causing a big setback to the country. Addressing a press conference after the conclusion of the Budget session, Rijiju said that the opposition will have to bear the brunt of being anti-women. “The Budget Session was extended for three days April 16, 17, 18 during which Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and Delimitation Bill were introduced. We have the majority, but we didn’t get the 2/3rd majority needed for Constitution Amendment,” Rijiju said. “Congress will have to face the anger of women; celebrating women’s defeat is proof of their anti-women mindset,” he added. Also Read: Iran’s state media slam Foreign Minister Araghchi’s Hormuz tweet, say it let Trump claim victory ‘Victory of democracy’: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Earlier, addressing a press conference, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that Centre was planning to stay in power using women. She hailed the defeat of the Delimitation Bill as a “victory of democracy” and accused the Centre of hatching a conspiracy to alter the federal structure of the country. BJP leader Smriti Irani lashed out at Congress MPs celebrating the defeat of the bill and accused the party of crushing the aspirations of ordinary women in the country. Also Read: Iran says Strait of Hormuz ‘completely open’; Trump thanks, says naval blockade to continue till deal “The Congress party appeared self-congratulatory, smiling and thumping desks, celebrating what was portrayed as having crushed the aspirations of ordinary women in this country,” she added. The BJP has accused opposition parties of blocking a historic reform aimed at ensuring 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies.

The proposed legislation, tied to the implementation of women’s reservation through delimitation, required a two-thirds majority but fell short after a lengthy and heated debate. In the voting, 298 members supported the bill, while 230 opposed it, resulting in its defeat.

PM Modi to address the nation at 8.30 pm after women’s reservation bill fails to muster support

Eight people lost their lives, and several others were injured after a tempo traveller plunged into a gorge in Valparai, Tamil Nadu. According to news agency ANI, the accident took place while the vehicle was returning from Valparai and encountered a mishap at a sharp curve along the hilly road. The vehicle was carrying 13 tourists from Perinthalmanna, Kerala, who were on their way back after sightseeing. Police reported that the driver lost control at the 13th hairpin bend, causing the vehicle to plunge to the 9th hairpin bend.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over the tragic incident and wished a quick recovery for the injured. “Distressed to hear about the mishap in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. Prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured,” PM Modi said in a post on X. Among the deceased were one man and seven women. The driver and four others were injured and have been rescued and admitted to the Government Hospital in Pollachi for treatment.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-hails-defeat-of-131st-constitution-amendment-bill-for-women-s-quota-bjp-calls-it-black-chapter-1776447563278">Opposition hails defeat of 131st Constitution Amendment Bill for women's quota, BJP calls it 'black chapter'</a>&nbsp;Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also expressed deep grief over the incident and extended condolences to the families of the victims. In a statement issued by the CMO, CM Vijayan said he had directed authorities to provide the best possible medical care to the injured and assured support for the victims’ families.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/largest-us-aircraft-carrier-erupts-in-mystery-fire-as-iran-chaos-escalates-1776446084092/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/largest-us-aircraft-carrier-erupts-in-mystery-fire-as-iran-chaos-escalates-1776446084092/embed</a>&nbsp;According to the District Collector’s office, the vehicle, traveling from Coimbatore towards Salem, lost control while navigating the 13th hairpin bend. It collided with a two-wheeler and an autorickshaw carrying around 10 passengers before plunging into the 9th bend. The tempo traveller had 13 passengers from Kerala’s Perinthalmanna. Eight of them (one male and seven females) died on the spot. The five injured, including the driver, two male juveniles aged 17–18, and two women, were rescued and taken to the government hospital in Pollachi.

Eight tourists killed in Valparai accident as tempo traveller plunges into gorge at hairpin bend. Injured shifted to Pollachi hospital

Eight people lost their lives, and several others were injured after a tempo traveller plunged into a gorge in Valparai, Tamil Nadu. According to news agency ANI, the accident took place while the vehicle was returning from Valparai and encountered a mishap at a sharp curve along the hilly road. The vehicle was carrying 13 tourists from Perinthalmanna, Kerala, who were on their way back after sightseeing. Police reported that the driver lost control at the 13th hairpin bend, causing the vehicle to plunge to the 9th hairpin bend. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over the tragic incident and wished a quick recovery for the injured. “Distressed to hear about the mishap in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. I extend my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their loved ones in the mishap. Prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured,” PM Modi said in a post on X. Among the deceased were one man and seven women. The driver and four others were injured and have been rescued and admitted to the Government Hospital in Pollachi for treatment. Also Read: Opposition hails defeat of 131st Constitution Amendment Bill for women's quota, BJP calls it 'black chapter' Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also expressed deep grief over the incident and extended condolences to the families of the victims. In a statement issued by the CMO, CM Vijayan said he had directed authorities to provide the best possible medical care to the injured and assured support for the victims’ families. https://www.wionews.com/videos/largest-us-aircraft-carrier-erupts-in-mystery-fire-as-iran-chaos-escalates-1776446084092/embed According to the District Collector’s office, the vehicle, traveling from Coimbatore towards Salem, lost control while navigating the 13th hairpin bend. It collided with a two-wheeler and an autorickshaw carrying around 10 passengers before plunging into the 9th bend. The tempo traveller had 13 passengers from Kerala’s Perinthalmanna. Eight of them (one male and seven females) died on the spot. The five injured, including the driver, two male juveniles aged 17–18, and two women, were rescued and taken to the government hospital in Pollachi.

Eight tourists died after a tempo traveller fell into a gorge at Valparai’s 13th hairpin bend; five injured are undergoing treatment in hopsital in Pollachi&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu tragedy: 8 killed as van falls off Valparai cliff; PM Modi condoles deaths

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi triggered a row in the Lok Sabha on Friday when he took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him the “magician of Balakot, demonetisation, and Operation Sindoor,” prompting sharp protests from BJP members.The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha was speaking during the special Parliament session when he used the swipe to criticise the government’s handling of the 2019 Balakot airstrikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed camps, the 2016 demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and last year’s cross-border strikes on terror camps under Operation Sindoor.Without naming the PM, Rahul said, “The truth is, the magician has been caught—the magician of Balakot, of demonetisation, of Sindoor has finally been exposed.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strait-of-hormuz-completely-open-for-all-commercial-vessels-for-remaining-ceasefire-iran-fm-araghchi-1776431393427">Iran says Strait of Hormuz ‘completely open’; Trump thanks, says naval blockade to continue till deal</a><h2>BJP lashes out at Rahul Gandhi, condemns his remark</h2>&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi’s comments drew a vociferous response from BJP MPs, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju accusing him of using inappropriate language against the PM and insulting the armed forces by referring to the Balakot strikes and Operation Sindoor.&nbsp;Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stood up to condemn Rahul’s “magician” remark and accused the Congress leader of undermining national sentiment and disrespecting the sacrifices of the armed forces.He called Rahul Gandhi’s choice of words for PM Modi “highly objectionable” and urged Speaker Om Birla to have the remarks expunged. Speaker Om Birla said such language would not be allowed in the House and told Gandhi to remain focused on the subject under discussion.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rahul countered by saying the BJP was trying to identify itself with the nation and the armed forces.“You (BJP) are not the people of India, you are not the armed forces, you are a political organisation. We are not attacking the people of India, we are not attacking the armed forces, we are attacking you. You are hiding behind the armed forces,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israel-won-t-retreat-from-positions-in-lebanon-during-10-day-ceasefire-1776367731291">Netanyahu says Israel won’t retreat from positions in Lebanon during 10-day ceasefire</a><h2>‘Proposed amendments panic reaction of BJP’: Rahul</h2>&nbsp;Speaking during the debate on proposed amendments to the women’s reservation law and the formation of a delimitation commission, Rahul Gandhi termed the move a “panic reaction,” alleging the BJP was fully aware the bills would not pass in the Lower House.“They knew very clearly this bill cannot be passed. They are not stupid. They knew every opposition member would oppose it. This was a panic reaction,” he said.&nbsp;Rahul said the move aimed to achieve two objectives, “First, to alter the electoral map of India. Second, to project the Prime Minister as pro-women.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-this-will-be-my-10th-trump-announces-10-day-ceasefire-between-israel-and-lebanon-1776354944757">‘This will be my 10th’: Trump announces 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon</a><h2>‘Bills aimed at redrawing India’s electoral balance, not empowering women’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;Rahul also alleged that the bills were aimed at redrawing India’s electoral balance rather than empowering women.&nbsp;He said the government was using women’s reservation as a cover to pursue political objectives and retain power. He also accused the Centre of attempting to weaken the political voice of OBCs and Dalits through constituency restructuring.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-s-president-declined-to-speak-with-netanyahu-insisted-ceasefire-precede-negotiations-1776359928103">Lebanon’s president declined to speak with Netanyahu, insisted ceasefire precede negotiations</a>&nbsp;“You are scared of what is happening in the politics of the country, you are scared of the erosion of your strength, and you are trying to rejig the Indian political map. You did it in Assam, J&amp;K, and now imagining you can do it in India. You need a constitutional amendment to do that.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The debate was being held after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, aimed at modifying provisions of the women’s reservation law, was introduced in the Lok Sabha.Two other legislations—the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill—were also tabled.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh condemned Rahul Gandhi’s “magician” remark and accused him of undermining national sentiment and disrespecting the sacrifices of the armed forces. He called Rahul’s choice of words highly objectionable and urged Speaker Om Birla to have the remarks expunged.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi triggered a row in the Lok Sabha on Friday when he took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him the “magician of Balakot, demonetisation, and Operation Sindoor,” prompting sharp protests from BJP members. The Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha was speaking during the special Parliament session when he used the swipe to criticise the government’s handling of the 2019 Balakot airstrikes on Jaish-e-Mohammed camps, the 2016 demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and last year’s cross-border strikes on terror camps under Operation Sindoor. Without naming the PM, Rahul said, “The truth is, the magician has been caught—the magician of Balakot, of demonetisation, of Sindoor has finally been exposed.” Also Read: Iran says Strait of Hormuz ‘completely open’; Trump thanks, says naval blockade to continue till deal BJP lashes out at Rahul Gandhi, condemns his remark Rahul Gandhi’s comments drew a vociferous response from BJP MPs, with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju accusing him of using inappropriate language against the PM and insulting the armed forces by referring to the Balakot strikes and Operation Sindoor. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stood up to condemn Rahul’s “magician” remark and accused the Congress leader of undermining national sentiment and disrespecting the sacrifices of the armed forces. He called Rahul Gandhi’s choice of words for PM Modi “highly objectionable” and urged Speaker Om Birla to have the remarks expunged. Speaker Om Birla said such language would not be allowed in the House and told Gandhi to remain focused on the subject under discussion. Rahul countered by saying the BJP was trying to identify itself with the nation and the armed forces. “You (BJP) are not the people of India, you are not the armed forces, you are a political organisation. We are not attacking the people of India, we are not attacking the armed forces, we are attacking you. You are hiding behind the armed forces,” he said. Also Read: Netanyahu says Israel won’t retreat from positions in Lebanon during 10-day ceasefire ‘Proposed amendments panic reaction of BJP’: Rahul Speaking during the debate on proposed amendments to the women’s reservation law and the formation of a delimitation commission, Rahul Gandhi termed the move a “panic reaction,” alleging the BJP was fully aware the bills would not pass in the Lower House. “They knew very clearly this bill cannot be passed. They are not stupid. They knew every opposition member would oppose it. This was a panic reaction,” he said. Rahul said the move aimed to achieve two objectives, “First, to alter the electoral map of India. Second, to project the Prime Minister as pro-women.” Also Read: ‘This will be my 10th’: Trump announces 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon ‘Bills aimed at redrawing India’s electoral balance, not empowering women’ Rahul also alleged that the bills were aimed at redrawing India’s electoral balance rather than empowering women. He said the government was using women’s reservation as a cover to pursue political objectives and retain power. He also accused the Centre of attempting to weaken the political voice of OBCs and Dalits through constituency restructuring. Also Read: Lebanon’s president declined to speak with Netanyahu, insisted ceasefire precede negotiations “You are scared of what is happening in the politics of the country, you are scared of the erosion of your strength, and you are trying to rejig the Indian political map. You did it in Assam, J&K, and now imagining you can do it in India. You need a constitutional amendment to do that.” The debate was being held after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill, aimed at modifying provisions of the women’s reservation law, was introduced in the Lok Sabha. Two other legislations—the Delimitation Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill—were also tabled.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh condemned Rahul Gandhi’s “magician” remark and accused him of undermining national sentiment and disrespecting the sacrifices of the armed forces. He called Rahul’s choice of words highly objectionable and urged Speaker Om Birla to have the remarks expunged.

BJP slams Rahul Gandhi over ‘magician of Balakot, demonetisation’ jibe at PM Modi

Indian parliament's upper house, the Rajya Sabha, on Friday (Apr 17) re-elected Harivansh Narayan Singh as its Deputy Chairman, with the motion moved by Union Minister and Leader of the House JP Nadda and passed by voice vote in the Upper House. "I declare that Shriman Harivansh has been chosen as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha," said Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan, following the vote. In keeping with tradition, Harivansh was escorted to the dais and back to his seat by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, JP Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-polls-eps-attacks-stalin-for-black-shirt-drama-over-delimitation-1776401928527">Tamil Nadu polls: EPS attacks Stalin for "black shirt drama" over Delimitation</a><h2>PM Modi, Mallikarjun Kharge welcome Harivansh for third term</h2>Rajya Sabha LoP Kharge, congratulating Harivansh, struck a warm and lightly humorous note. "I would like to congratulate you for the work you have done here. I am getting another chance to sit with you in the House. You are a good neighbour," he said, drawing chuckles from those around him.Prime Minister Modi's felicitation remarks traced Harivansh's journey from a village in Uttar Pradesh to the upper chamber of Parliament, touching on his early roots, his education in Kashi, and his long career before entering politics.Modi noted that the day carried additional significance and said, "Today is April 17, and today is the birth anniversary of our former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. I hope that today, when you (Harivansh) are taking up this responsibility for the third time, on Chandra Shekhar's birth anniversary."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-calls-out-unacceptable-attacks-on-ships-in-strait-of-hormuz-flags-lost-precious-lives-of-indian-seafarers-1776387875954">India calls out 'unacceptable' attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz</a><h2>Harivansh-Chandr Shekhar connection</h2>Harivansh has written extensively on Chandra Shekhar, including the book Chandra Shekhar: The Last Icon of Ideological Politics, co-authored with Ravi Dutt Bajpai."The way you have been connected with Chandra Shekhar, your closeness with him — you have been his co-passenger in a way," Modi said. "I think today is a special day for you."Chandra Shekhar, widely known as Jananayak, served as Prime Minister from November 1990 to June 1991, leading a breakaway faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress in a short-lived minority government.&nbsp;

Harivansh Narayan Singh has been re-elected as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for a third term, with the motion moved by JP Nadda and passed by voice vote.  After the vote, Harivansh was escorted to the dais by Narendra Modi, Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.

Indian parliament's upper house, the Rajya Sabha, on Friday (Apr 17) re-elected Harivansh Narayan Singh as its Deputy Chairman, with the motion moved by Union Minister and Leader of the House JP Nadda and passed by voice vote in the Upper House. "I declare that Shriman Harivansh has been chosen as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha," said Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan, following the vote. In keeping with tradition, Harivansh was escorted to the dais and back to his seat by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, JP Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge. Also read | Tamil Nadu polls: EPS attacks Stalin for "black shirt drama" over Delimitation PM Modi, Mallikarjun Kharge welcome Harivansh for third term Rajya Sabha LoP Kharge, congratulating Harivansh, struck a warm and lightly humorous note. "I would like to congratulate you for the work you have done here. I am getting another chance to sit with you in the House. You are a good neighbour," he said, drawing chuckles from those around him. Prime Minister Modi's felicitation remarks traced Harivansh's journey from a village in Uttar Pradesh to the upper chamber of Parliament, touching on his early roots, his education in Kashi, and his long career before entering politics. Modi noted that the day carried additional significance and said, "Today is April 17, and today is the birth anniversary of our former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. I hope that today, when you (Harivansh) are taking up this responsibility for the third time, on Chandra Shekhar's birth anniversary." Also read | India calls out 'unacceptable' attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz Harivansh-Chandr Shekhar connection Harivansh has written extensively on Chandra Shekhar, including the book Chandra Shekhar: The Last Icon of Ideological Politics, co-authored with Ravi Dutt Bajpai. "The way you have been connected with Chandra Shekhar, your closeness with him — you have been his co-passenger in a way," Modi said. "I think today is a special day for you." Chandra Shekhar, widely known as Jananayak, served as Prime Minister from November 1990 to June 1991, leading a breakaway faction of the Janata Dal with outside support from Congress in a short-lived minority government.

Harivansh Narayan Singh has been re-elected as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for a third term, with the motion moved by JP Nadda and passed by voice vote. &nbsp;After the vote, Harivansh was escorted to the dais by Narendra Modi, Nadda, and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge.

Harivansh re-elected as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman for a third term; PM Modi lauds 'special day'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal on Sunday, alleging that it had earmarked around Rs 6,000 crore for madrasas in the state while neglecting funding for North Bengal’s development. The PM said that the TMC was “busy appeasing its vote bank” and neglected the needs of the region during crisis situations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing a rally in Siliguri, PM Modi said, “The budget of the ruthless TMC government is also an example of discrimination against North Bengal. This ruthless government allocated a budget of approximately Rs 6,000 crore for madrasas. But the Bengal government does not allocate enough budget for the development of such a vast part of North Bengal. The TMC is busy day and night appeasing its own special vote bank. When heavy rains wreaked havoc in many districts of North Bengal, there was chaos everywhere. At that time, the ruthless TMC government was celebrating in Kolkata. TMC is an anti-North Bengal party.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-to-restore-most-of-its-damaged-refinery-facilities-within-two-months-deputy-oil-minister-1775994877040">Iran to restore most of its damaged refinery facilities within two months: Deputy oil minister</a>&nbsp;PM Modi asserted that West Bengal is “determined for change,” claiming that TMC will be voted out in the upcoming assembly elections.&nbsp;“Yesterday I visited different parts of Bengal. What I saw there was the enthusiasm, energy, and excitement among the youth, mothers, sisters, and elderly people, as well as villagers, which was remarkable. People had come after facing great difficulties and had walked for miles. Bengal is now determined for change. This time, it is certain that the TMC will go,” PM Modi said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pahalgam-massacre-enhanced-pak-s-image-globally-lashkar-commander-exposes-islamabad-s-role-in-killings-1775932347779">‘Pahalgam massacre enhanced Pak’s image globally’: Lashkar commander exposes Islamabad’s role in killings</a>&nbsp;"TMC people, listen carefully. After May 4th, the BJP government will be formed, and they will have to give an account of every moment of the past fifteen years. They will have to give an account of every penny,” he said.&nbsp;He said the massive turnout at his rally reflects growing public anger against the ruling party in West Bengal.&nbsp;“This sight today gives me full confidence that it is going to shake the sleep of TMC. This rally in Siliguri has decided the farewell of TMC’s so-called jungle raj. Across Bengal, only one slogan is echoing, only one slogan is being heard. The cruel TMC government has completed 15 years. In these 15 years, you have seen destruction. Today, one by one, I will place before you the entire list of TMC’s sins and its dark deeds,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-claims-clearing-hormuz-of-mines-iran-says-us-warship-made-u-turn-after-warning-1775922887251">Trump says ‘clearing’ Hormuz of mines, CENTCOM confirms; Iran claims US warship made U-turn after warning</a>&nbsp;“For the BJP, the Siliguri Corridor is a corridor of nation, security, and prosperity. This project will greatly boost connectivity, trade, and tourism in Bengal and Sikkim... TMC obstructs every project of the central government,” PM Modi said.&nbsp;

Addressing a rally in Siliguri, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the TMC government allocated a budget of approximately Rs 6,000 crore for madrasas, but does not allocate enough budget for the development of a vast part of North Bengal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government in West Bengal on Sunday, alleging that it had earmarked around Rs 6,000 crore for madrasas in the state while neglecting funding for North Bengal’s development. The PM said that the TMC was “busy appeasing its vote bank” and neglected the needs of the region during crisis situations. Addressing a rally in Siliguri, PM Modi said, “The budget of the ruthless TMC government is also an example of discrimination against North Bengal. This ruthless government allocated a budget of approximately Rs 6,000 crore for madrasas. But the Bengal government does not allocate enough budget for the development of such a vast part of North Bengal. The TMC is busy day and night appeasing its own special vote bank. When heavy rains wreaked havoc in many districts of North Bengal, there was chaos everywhere. At that time, the ruthless TMC government was celebrating in Kolkata. TMC is an anti-North Bengal party.” Also Read: Iran to restore most of its damaged refinery facilities within two months: Deputy oil minister PM Modi asserted that West Bengal is “determined for change,” claiming that TMC will be voted out in the upcoming assembly elections. “Yesterday I visited different parts of Bengal. What I saw there was the enthusiasm, energy, and excitement among the youth, mothers, sisters, and elderly people, as well as villagers, which was remarkable. People had come after facing great difficulties and had walked for miles. Bengal is now determined for change. This time, it is certain that the TMC will go,” PM Modi said. Also Read: ‘Pahalgam massacre enhanced Pak’s image globally’: Lashkar commander exposes Islamabad’s role in killings "TMC people, listen carefully. After May 4th, the BJP government will be formed, and they will have to give an account of every moment of the past fifteen years. They will have to give an account of every penny,” he said. He said the massive turnout at his rally reflects growing public anger against the ruling party in West Bengal. “This sight today gives me full confidence that it is going to shake the sleep of TMC. This rally in Siliguri has decided the farewell of TMC’s so-called jungle raj. Across Bengal, only one slogan is echoing, only one slogan is being heard. The cruel TMC government has completed 15 years. In these 15 years, you have seen destruction. Today, one by one, I will place before you the entire list of TMC’s sins and its dark deeds,” he said. Also Read: Trump says ‘clearing’ Hormuz of mines, CENTCOM confirms; Iran claims US warship made U-turn after warning “For the BJP, the Siliguri Corridor is a corridor of nation, security, and prosperity. This project will greatly boost connectivity, trade, and tourism in Bengal and Sikkim... TMC obstructs every project of the central government,” PM Modi said.

Addressing a rally in Siliguri, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the TMC government allocated a budget of approximately Rs 6,000 crore for madrasas, but does not allocate enough budget for the development of a vast part of North Bengal.

‘TMC govt allocated Rs 6,000 crore for madrasas, neglected funding for North Bengal’: PM Modi

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday (April 8, 2026) cleared a draft amendment Bill aimed at implementing the Women’s Reservation Act in time for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. The decision on the bill was taken at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The proposed amendment revises the rollout framework of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, officially known as the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, enacted in 2023. Under the proposal, the Lok Sabha's strength is proposed to increase from 543 to 816 seats after a new delimitation exercise. Out of the expanded total of 273 seats, about one-third will be reserved for women, with the quota also extending within the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe categories, according to The Hindu.<h3>PM Modi on Women’s Reservation Bill</h3>In response to the Act, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (April 9, 2026) underscored that women's reservation in legislative bodies was the "need of the hour". He added that delaying this reservation will be "deeply unfortunate" for deserving women. "Reservation for women in legislative bodies is the need of the hour! This will make our democracy even more vibrant and participative. Any delay in bringing this reservation will be deeply unfortunate. Expressed my thoughts on the issue in this Op-Ed," PM Modi said in a post on X. PM Modi said that wider access to education, better healthcare, stronger financial inclusion, and improved basic amenities have reinforced women’s role in economic and social spheres. "Women constitute nearly half of India's population. Their contributions to our nation are vast and invaluable. Today, India is witnessing remarkable achievements by women across every field. From science and technology to entrepreneurship, from sports to the armed forces and from music to the arts, women are at the forefront of India's progress. Over the years, sustained efforts have been made to create an enabling environment for women's empowerment. Greater access to education, improved healthcare, enhanced financial inclusion and better access to basic amenities have strengthened the foundations of women's participation in economic and social life," the Prime Minister wrote in his article. He also pointed out that earlier governments had attempted to introduce women’s reservation, but those efforts did not materialise. Calling the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam a landmark moment, he described it as one of the most memorable events of his life.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-nila-the-robot-welcoming-voters-at-puducherry-polling-booth-watch-1775711293951">Meet 'Nila', the robot welcoming voters at Puducherry polling booth: WATCH</a>

Under the proposal, the Lok Sabha's strength is proposed to increase from 543 to 816 seats after a new delimitation exercise. Out of the expanded total of 273 seats, about one-third will be reserved for women.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday (April 8, 2026) cleared a draft amendment Bill aimed at implementing the Women’s Reservation Act in time for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. The decision on the bill was taken at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The proposed amendment revises the rollout framework of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, officially known as the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, enacted in 2023. Under the proposal, the Lok Sabha's strength is proposed to increase from 543 to 816 seats after a new delimitation exercise. Out of the expanded total of 273 seats, about one-third will be reserved for women, with the quota also extending within the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe categories, according to The Hindu. PM Modi on Women’s Reservation Bill In response to the Act, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (April 9, 2026) underscored that women's reservation in legislative bodies was the "need of the hour". He added that delaying this reservation will be "deeply unfortunate" for deserving women. "Reservation for women in legislative bodies is the need of the hour! This will make our democracy even more vibrant and participative. Any delay in bringing this reservation will be deeply unfortunate. Expressed my thoughts on the issue in this Op-Ed," PM Modi said in a post on X. PM Modi said that wider access to education, better healthcare, stronger financial inclusion, and improved basic amenities have reinforced women’s role in economic and social spheres. "Women constitute nearly half of India's population. Their contributions to our nation are vast and invaluable. Today, India is witnessing remarkable achievements by women across every field. From science and technology to entrepreneurship, from sports to the armed forces and from music to the arts, women are at the forefront of India's progress. Over the years, sustained efforts have been made to create an enabling environment for women's empowerment. Greater access to education, improved healthcare, enhanced financial inclusion and better access to basic amenities have strengthened the foundations of women's participation in economic and social life," the Prime Minister wrote in his article. He also pointed out that earlier governments had attempted to introduce women’s reservation, but those efforts did not materialise. Calling the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam a landmark moment, he described it as one of the most memorable events of his life. Also read: Meet 'Nila', the robot welcoming voters at Puducherry polling booth: WATCH

Under the proposal, the Lok Sabha's strength is proposed to increase from 543 to 816 seats after a new delimitation exercise. Out of the expanded total of 273 seats, about one-third will be reserved for women.

Union Cabinet clears draft bill for amendments to Women Reservation Act; PM Modi calls it ‘need of the hour’

India and China have reopened one of their most consequential bilateral channels after years of silence. But as New Delhi pushes for greater market access in Beijing, experts are sounding a clear note of caution: diplomatic goodwill, however welcome, is not a substitute for structural leverage. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met his Chinese counterpart Wang Wentao on the sidelines of the World Trade Organisation Ministerial in Yaounde, Cameroon, last week, the first commerce ministerial-level interaction between Asia's two largest economies in nearly seven years. The meeting, Goyal said, was about more than trade volumes.&nbsp;"I also met after a long time the Minister from China, with whom we have discussed ways to expand trade, move towards more balanced trade, and generate ‘trust’ to help smooth bilateral trade between China and India, and give greater opportunity for our exporters to export pharmaceuticals, to export engineering products, to export fish and pharma products. All in all, a good start, I would say, to generating greater opportunities for our exporters in China," the Minister said.<h2>The Numbers Behind the Push</h2>The urgency behind Minister Piyus Goyal's pitch is written in the trade data. India's merchandise exports to China for the financial year 2025-26, up to February 2026, stood at $17.5 billion. Its imports from Beijing over the same period were $119.56 billion, a gap that is not just large, but widening at a pace that diplomacy alone cannot match. Dr. Nisha Taneja, Senior Visiting Professor at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and former member of the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Trade and Investment, puts the problem in great arithmetic. Despite a 38 percent surge in Indian exports between April 2025 and January 2026, exports rose by only USD 4.4 billion in absolute terms, against a USD 13.1 billion increase in imports during the same period.&nbsp;"The widening trade deficit is driven by India's limited access to the Chinese market and its heavy reliance on Chinese imports, 85 percent of which are intermediate and capital goods essential for manufacturing," Dr. Nisha Taneja told WION. "Following Trump's tariff announcements, China has been aggressively diversifying exports, with India becoming a key target market."<h2>The Pharma Wall: A Regulatory Deadlock</h2>India's ambition to push pharmaceuticals into China runs into a barrier that has little to do with product quality or price competitiveness. The obstacle is procedural, and it has gone unaddressed for years. Chinese regulatory authorities require their officials to physically visit and certify manufacturing facilities in India before approving drug registrations. No facilitative mechanism for such visits currently exists between the two countries.&nbsp;"Countries such as the United States and members of the European Union have well-established systems for sending regulatory officials to India to certify pharmaceutical plants. The absence of a similar structured mechanism between India and China creates significant barriers for Indian exporters," Dr. Nisha Taneja said. The information gap compounds the regulatory one. Indian exporters frequently lack a clear understanding of Chinese market requirements, registration procedures, and how to identify reliable business partners on the ground, gaps that persist across sectors beyond pharmaceuticals, including machinery parts, turbojets, automobile components, and gems and jewellery.<h2>China's Carrot, And What It Really Means</h2>On the strategic side, it warns India against reading too much into Beijing's accommodating posture. Antara Ghosal Singh, China Fellow at the Strategic Studies Programme of the Observer Research Foundation and one of India's foremost China watchers, argues that China's economic structure is fundamentally misaligned with what New Delhi is asking for. "China maintains a trade surplus against most countries in the world, a total surplus of more than one trillion US dollars. China is not keen on buying anything from anyone, other than high-technology and raw materials," she told WION. "This is certainly not due to lack of competitiveness on the part of these countries, but because of China's own economic policies, which have for all these years favoured production over consumption."&nbsp;Ms Antara further highlighted that the data from within China's own economy tells a sobering story. Domestic car sales have stagnated for eleven years, failing to surpass the 2017 peak. Smartphone shipments have fallen from 470 million units in 2016 to 300 million units by 2025. China, she argues, remains structurally export-dependent, and has neither the appetite nor the policy architecture to suddenly become a significant consumer of Indian goods.&nbsp;Her sharper warning cuts to the heart of the negotiation. "China will surely not like Chinese companies investing and enabling India to become a manufacturing nation in competition with China, so it is only pertinent that they will dangle the carrot of market access before India, to extract more concessions from the Indian side for Chinese businesses," she said.<h2>What a Real Reset Would Require</h2>Both experts point to concrete steps that would need to accompany the diplomatic momentum if this reset is to translate into measurable trade outcomes. Dr. Nisha Taneja calls for a dedicated bilateral task force, a structured mechanism that would systematically identify market access barriers faced by exporters on both sides, coordinate between regulatory bodies, and provide businesses with clearer procedural guidance. Alongside this, she argues, stronger people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges, tourism, and civil society engagement are not peripheral to trade; they are foundational to building the very trust that Minister Piyus Goyal placed at the centre of India's pitch in Yaounde.&nbsp;Ms Antara Ghosal Singh takes the argument further, urging India to reframe the negotiation itself. "Rather than obsessing over India's economic dependence on China, we must also do deeper studies on the current challenges of the Chinese economy and their need for greater access to the Indian market, and only then can we hope to get a good bargain from the Chinese side," she said. India's reset with China is real, and the Yaounde meeting marks a genuine moment of diplomatic momentum. But as the experts make clear, a good start, as Minister Goyal himself described it, is still just a start.&nbsp;WION has reached out to the Indian Pharma Exports Council and the Engineering Exports Promotion Council of India to know what exactly they seek from China and the Indian government in terms of trade, capital, and policy. Till the time of the publication, the council's has not yet responded to our questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India bets on 'trust' to unlock China’s pharma and engineering markets, experts warn of 'carrots'

India and China have reopened one of their most consequential bilateral channels after years of silence. But as New Delhi pushes for greater market access in Beijing, experts are sounding a clear note of caution: diplomatic goodwill, however welcome, is not a substitute for structural leverage. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met his Chinese counterpart Wang Wentao on the sidelines of the World Trade Organisation Ministerial in Yaounde, Cameroon, last week, the first commerce ministerial-level interaction between Asia's two largest economies in nearly seven years. The meeting, Goyal said, was about more than trade volumes. "I also met after a long time the Minister from China, with whom we have discussed ways to expand trade, move towards more balanced trade, and generate ‘trust’ to help smooth bilateral trade between China and India, and give greater opportunity for our exporters to export pharmaceuticals, to export engineering products, to export fish and pharma products. All in all, a good start, I would say, to generating greater opportunities for our exporters in China," the Minister said. The Numbers Behind the Push The urgency behind Minister Piyus Goyal's pitch is written in the trade data. India's merchandise exports to China for the financial year 2025-26, up to February 2026, stood at $17.5 billion. Its imports from Beijing over the same period were $119.56 billion, a gap that is not just large, but widening at a pace that diplomacy alone cannot match. Dr. Nisha Taneja, Senior Visiting Professor at the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and former member of the World Economic Forum's Global Future Council on Trade and Investment, puts the problem in great arithmetic. Despite a 38 percent surge in Indian exports between April 2025 and January 2026, exports rose by only USD 4.4 billion in absolute terms, against a USD 13.1 billion increase in imports during the same period. "The widening trade deficit is driven by India's limited access to the Chinese market and its heavy reliance on Chinese imports, 85 percent of which are intermediate and capital goods essential for manufacturing," Dr. Nisha Taneja told WION. "Following Trump's tariff announcements, China has been aggressively diversifying exports, with India becoming a key target market." The Pharma Wall: A Regulatory Deadlock India's ambition to push pharmaceuticals into China runs into a barrier that has little to do with product quality or price competitiveness. The obstacle is procedural, and it has gone unaddressed for years. Chinese regulatory authorities require their officials to physically visit and certify manufacturing facilities in India before approving drug registrations. No facilitative mechanism for such visits currently exists between the two countries. "Countries such as the United States and members of the European Union have well-established systems for sending regulatory officials to India to certify pharmaceutical plants. The absence of a similar structured mechanism between India and China creates significant barriers for Indian exporters," Dr. Nisha Taneja said. The information gap compounds the regulatory one. Indian exporters frequently lack a clear understanding of Chinese market requirements, registration procedures, and how to identify reliable business partners on the ground, gaps that persist across sectors beyond pharmaceuticals, including machinery parts, turbojets, automobile components, and gems and jewellery. China's Carrot, And What It Really Means On the strategic side, it warns India against reading too much into Beijing's accommodating posture. Antara Ghosal Singh, China Fellow at the Strategic Studies Programme of the Observer Research Foundation and one of India's foremost China watchers, argues that China's economic structure is fundamentally misaligned with what New Delhi is asking for. "China maintains a trade surplus against most countries in the world, a total surplus of more than one trillion US dollars. China is not keen on buying anything from anyone, other than high-technology and raw materials," she told WION. "This is certainly not due to lack of competitiveness on the part of these countries, but because of China's own economic policies, which have for all these years favoured production over consumption." Ms Antara further highlighted that the data from within China's own economy tells a sobering story. Domestic car sales have stagnated for eleven years, failing to surpass the 2017 peak. Smartphone shipments have fallen from 470 million units in 2016 to 300 million units by 2025. China, she argues, remains structurally export-dependent, and has neither the appetite nor the policy architecture to suddenly become a significant consumer of Indian goods. Her sharper warning cuts to the heart of the negotiation. "China will surely not like Chinese companies investing and enabling India to become a manufacturing nation in competition with China, so it is only pertinent that they will dangle the carrot of market access before India, to extract more concessions from the Indian side for Chinese businesses," she said. What a Real Reset Would Require Both experts point to concrete steps that would need to accompany the diplomatic momentum if this reset is to translate into measurable trade outcomes. Dr. Nisha Taneja calls for a dedicated bilateral task force, a structured mechanism that would systematically identify market access barriers faced by exporters on both sides, coordinate between regulatory bodies, and provide businesses with clearer procedural guidance. Alongside this, she argues, stronger people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges, tourism, and civil society engagement are not peripheral to trade; they are foundational to building the very trust that Minister Piyus Goyal placed at the centre of India's pitch in Yaounde. Ms Antara Ghosal Singh takes the argument further, urging India to reframe the negotiation itself. "Rather than obsessing over India's economic dependence on China, we must also do deeper studies on the current challenges of the Chinese economy and their need for greater access to the Indian market, and only then can we hope to get a good bargain from the Chinese side," she said. India's reset with China is real, and the Yaounde meeting marks a genuine moment of diplomatic momentum. But as the experts make clear, a good start, as Minister Goyal himself described it, is still just a start. WION has reached out to the Indian Pharma Exports Council and the Engineering Exports Promotion Council of India to know what exactly they seek from China and the Indian government in terms of trade, capital, and policy. Till the time of the publication, the council's has not yet responded to our questions.

Experts warn that China has little economic incentive to open its market and may use the promise of access to extract concessions from India. A dedicated bilateral task force and regulatory mechanism for pharma certification identified as critical first steps

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday slammed the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal over the gherao of judicial officers in Malda and said it is opposing SIR so that “infiltrators are not identified”. PM Modi further alleged that a “ruthless government has turned Bengal into a hub of migration.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing a rally in Cooch Behar on Sunday, PM Modi said, “When judges and the constitutional process are not safe, how can there be expectation of the safety of the common people of Bengal.” He said what happened in Malda is an example of TMC’s “maha jungle raj”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-jaish-terrorists-arrested-in-mumbai-for-plotting-terror-attack-in-delhi-using-toy-car-1775410610511">Two Jaish terrorists arrested in Mumbai for plotting terror attack in Delhi using toy car</a>&nbsp;“This ruthless government does not consider any constitutional institution as anything in front of itself. You have seen it just two or three days ago. The judges and citizens of the country were shocked by how judicial officers were held hostage in Malda. Think what kind of government is this? What kind of system is this? Where even the judges and the constitutional process are not safe,” he asked.&nbsp;&nbsp;“How can we expect the safety of the common people of Bengal from these people?” PM Modi alleged.&nbsp;The PM also targeted Trinamool Congress over its comments over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), saying the party wants to “strip citizenship from those Hindu refugees who have been granted it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stranded-us-pilot-climbed-up-to-7-000ft-for-safety-hid-in-a-crevice-to-survive-24-hours-in-hostile-iranian-terrain-1775402213260">Stranded US pilot climbed up to 7,000ft for safety, hid in a crevice to survive 24 hours in hostile Iranian terrain</a>&nbsp;“These Trinamool people are opposing the SIR. So that infiltrators cannot be identified, instead, TMC is threatening to scrap the CAA. That is, they will strip citizenship from those Hindu refugees who have been granted it and give that citizenship to infiltrators. Because TMC considers infiltrators their vote bank,” he said.&nbsp;Bengal was once one of India’s most developed states, but it is now behind in development parameters, PM Modi said. “Bengal was at the forefront of development, trade, industry, art, and culture. But then Bengal was eclipsed. First, by the Congress, then by the Left, and now by the TMC. As a result, Bengal’s development has faded.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-s-defence-minister-khawaja-asif-warns-of-striking-kolkata-in-future-conflict-with-india-1775326150284">Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif warns of striking Kolkata in future conflict with India</a>&nbsp;“Earlier, people in Bengal always earned more than the average person in the country, but now, the average person in Bengal earns far less than the national average. This means that the country is progressing. Other states are developing, but the TMC has pushed Bengal back. Previously, people used to come to Bengal for employment. A ruthless government has turned that same Bengal into a hub of migration,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 294-member West Bengal Assembly will go to polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29, and the counting of votes will be held on May 4.

PM Narendra Modi targeted Trinamool Congress over its comments over the Citizenship Amendment Act , saying the party wants to strip citizenship from those Hindu refugees who have been granted it. Trinamool people are opposing the SIR, so that infiltrators cannot be identified, he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday slammed the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal over the gherao of judicial officers in Malda and said it is opposing SIR so that “infiltrators are not identified”. PM Modi further alleged that a “ruthless government has turned Bengal into a hub of migration.” Addressing a rally in Cooch Behar on Sunday, PM Modi said, “When judges and the constitutional process are not safe, how can there be expectation of the safety of the common people of Bengal.” He said what happened in Malda is an example of TMC’s “maha jungle raj”. Also Read: Two Jaish terrorists arrested in Mumbai for plotting terror attack in Delhi using toy car “This ruthless government does not consider any constitutional institution as anything in front of itself. You have seen it just two or three days ago. The judges and citizens of the country were shocked by how judicial officers were held hostage in Malda. Think what kind of government is this? What kind of system is this? Where even the judges and the constitutional process are not safe,” he asked. “How can we expect the safety of the common people of Bengal from these people?” PM Modi alleged. The PM also targeted Trinamool Congress over its comments over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), saying the party wants to “strip citizenship from those Hindu refugees who have been granted it.” Also Read: Stranded US pilot climbed up to 7,000ft for safety, hid in a crevice to survive 24 hours in hostile Iranian terrain “These Trinamool people are opposing the SIR. So that infiltrators cannot be identified, instead, TMC is threatening to scrap the CAA. That is, they will strip citizenship from those Hindu refugees who have been granted it and give that citizenship to infiltrators. Because TMC considers infiltrators their vote bank,” he said. Bengal was once one of India’s most developed states, but it is now behind in development parameters, PM Modi said. “Bengal was at the forefront of development, trade, industry, art, and culture. But then Bengal was eclipsed. First, by the Congress, then by the Left, and now by the TMC. As a result, Bengal’s development has faded.” Also Read: Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif warns of striking Kolkata in future conflict with India “Earlier, people in Bengal always earned more than the average person in the country, but now, the average person in Bengal earns far less than the national average. This means that the country is progressing. Other states are developing, but the TMC has pushed Bengal back. Previously, people used to come to Bengal for employment. A ruthless government has turned that same Bengal into a hub of migration,” he added. The 294-member West Bengal Assembly will go to polls in two phases on April 23 and April 29, and the counting of votes will be held on May 4.

PM Narendra Modi targeted Trinamool Congress over its comments over the Citizenship Amendment Act , saying the party wants to strip citizenship from those Hindu refugees who have been granted it. Trinamool people are opposing the SIR, so that infiltrators cannot be identified, he added.

‘Trinamool Congress govt ruthless, has turned Bengal into hub of migration’: PM Modi

With less than a week to go for the April 9th Assembly polls in the Union Territory of Puducherry, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an hour-long roadshow on Friday, (April 3rd) evening. Modi was accompanied by N. Rangasamy, the Chief Minister of the Union Territory. BJP is part of the ruling NDA alliance led by the NR Congress in Puducherry, where the Congress-DMK alliance is in opposition.&nbsp;The battle for Puducherry’s 30-seat assembly is to be a three-cornered one, as actor-politician Vijay’s TVK party is making its electoral debut this time around. For the BJP, retaining power in Puducherry is politically significant, as it is an indicator of the party’s gradual growth in the Southern Indian states, where it has had a major presence only in Karnataka, and is part of the ruling coalition in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier this week, Modi interacted with party workers in Puducherry via virtual mode, emphasising how booth-level strengthening is key to electoral success and called for coordinated efforts between the allies. Lashing out at the DMK-Congress combine, Modi alleged that they prioritised family interests, as opposed to the NDA that is committed to people-centric governance.&nbsp;The Prime Minister had also stressed upon the NDA’s ‘BEST Puducherry’ vision of focussing on Business, Education, Spirituality and Tourism for overall development. He spoke about the role of tourism in generating jobs and boosting the local economy, stating that efforts taken by the NDA government have helped promote tourism in the Union Territory. Easing of visa norms and visa-on-arrival facilities have helped boost tourism, he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;In opposition in Puducherry, the Congress party has been raising questions over whether the Modi Government at the Centre would fulfil Puducherry’s demand for statehood. Notably, Chief Minister Rangasamy had pressed the demand for statehood when Prime Minister Modi took part at an event there recently. Congress has also been attacking the NDA government over unfulfilled elected promises and for “betraying” the people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the NDA’s ‘BEST Puducherry’ vision of focussing on Business, Education, Spirituality and Tourism for overall development. He also spoke about the role of tourism in generating jobs and boosting the local economy.

With less than a week to go for the April 9th Assembly polls in the Union Territory of Puducherry, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an hour-long roadshow on Friday, (April 3rd) evening. Modi was accompanied by N. Rangasamy, the Chief Minister of the Union Territory. BJP is part of the ruling NDA alliance led by the NR Congress in Puducherry, where the Congress-DMK alliance is in opposition. The battle for Puducherry’s 30-seat assembly is to be a three-cornered one, as actor-politician Vijay’s TVK party is making its electoral debut this time around. For the BJP, retaining power in Puducherry is politically significant, as it is an indicator of the party’s gradual growth in the Southern Indian states, where it has had a major presence only in Karnataka, and is part of the ruling coalition in Andhra Pradesh. Earlier this week, Modi interacted with party workers in Puducherry via virtual mode, emphasising how booth-level strengthening is key to electoral success and called for coordinated efforts between the allies. Lashing out at the DMK-Congress combine, Modi alleged that they prioritised family interests, as opposed to the NDA that is committed to people-centric governance. The Prime Minister had also stressed upon the NDA’s ‘BEST Puducherry’ vision of focussing on Business, Education, Spirituality and Tourism for overall development. He spoke about the role of tourism in generating jobs and boosting the local economy, stating that efforts taken by the NDA government have helped promote tourism in the Union Territory. Easing of visa norms and visa-on-arrival facilities have helped boost tourism, he added. In opposition in Puducherry, the Congress party has been raising questions over whether the Modi Government at the Centre would fulfil Puducherry’s demand for statehood. Notably, Chief Minister Rangasamy had pressed the demand for statehood when Prime Minister Modi took part at an event there recently. Congress has also been attacking the NDA government over unfulfilled elected promises and for “betraying” the people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stressed the NDA’s ‘BEST Puducherry’ vision of focussing on Business, Education, Spirituality and Tourism for overall development. He also spoke about the role of tourism in generating jobs and boosting the local economy.

PM Modi holds roadshow in NDA-ruled Puducherry; polling on April 9th

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg on Wednesday and reviewed measures taken by various departments amid the evolving situation in West Asia and its implications for India’s energy security, supply chains, and overall macroeconomic stability. The PM directed ministries to take urgent steps to safeguard essential supplies and citizens from the impact of the conflict.&nbsp;In a post on X, PM Modi said that the CCS reviewed the steps being taken by various ministries and departments in the wake of the ongoing West Asia conflict and discussed the next set of initiatives to be taken.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-will-be-out-of-iran-pretty-quickly-could-return-for-spot-hits-1775055158626">Trump says US will be out of Iran ‘pretty quickly’, could return for ‘spot hits’</a>&nbsp;The high-level committee assessed measures across energy, fertilisers, agriculture, logistics, and MSMEs and reviewed actions to ensure the availability of petroleum products, particularly LPG and LNG.&nbsp;LPG prices for domestic consumers have been kept unchanged, while anti-diversion enforcement is being strengthened to curb hoarding and black marketing.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Prime Minister also assessed the power situation, with officials highlighting steps such as additional coal supply to thermal plants and easing norms for gas-based power generation. “Enough coal stock exists, which shall serve power needs adequately in coming months,” said a release issued by the government.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-us-troops-will-be-good-food-for-persian-gulf-sharks-iran-again-warns-against-ground-assault-1774813142373">‘US troops will be good food for Persian Gulf sharks’: Iran again warns against ground assault</a>&nbsp;The government said it is maintaining urea production and coordinating with overseas suppliers for DAP and NPKS to ensure adequate availability during Kharif and Rabi seasons.&nbsp;&nbsp;All states have been asked to act strictly against hoarding and diversion through monitoring and enforcement.&nbsp;The CCS also reviewed price trends of essential commodities, with control rooms set up for real-time coordination with states and Union Territories under the Essential Commodities Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/political-terror-nexus-unmasked-pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-s-aide-spotted-with-hafiz-saeed-s-son-talha-1775048052015">Political-terror nexus unmasked: Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif’s aide spotted with Hafiz Saeed’s son Talha</a>&nbsp;The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of clear communication amid the evolving crisis. The PM underlined the need for timely and smooth flow of authentic information to the public to prevent misinformation and rumour mongering, it added.&nbsp;The committee also discussed global efforts to secure safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz besides broader initiatives to stabilise supply chains.&nbsp;

All states have been asked to act strictly against hoarding and diversion through monitoring and enforcement. The CCS also reviewed price trends of essential commodities, with control rooms set up for real-time coordination with states and UTs under the Essential Commodities Act.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg on Wednesday and reviewed measures taken by various departments amid the evolving situation in West Asia and its implications for India’s energy security, supply chains, and overall macroeconomic stability. The PM directed ministries to take urgent steps to safeguard essential supplies and citizens from the impact of the conflict. In a post on X, PM Modi said that the CCS reviewed the steps being taken by various ministries and departments in the wake of the ongoing West Asia conflict and discussed the next set of initiatives to be taken. Also Read: Trump says US will be out of Iran ‘pretty quickly’, could return for ‘spot hits’ The high-level committee assessed measures across energy, fertilisers, agriculture, logistics, and MSMEs and reviewed actions to ensure the availability of petroleum products, particularly LPG and LNG. LPG prices for domestic consumers have been kept unchanged, while anti-diversion enforcement is being strengthened to curb hoarding and black marketing. The Prime Minister also assessed the power situation, with officials highlighting steps such as additional coal supply to thermal plants and easing norms for gas-based power generation. “Enough coal stock exists, which shall serve power needs adequately in coming months,” said a release issued by the government. Also Read: ‘US troops will be good food for Persian Gulf sharks’: Iran again warns against ground assault The government said it is maintaining urea production and coordinating with overseas suppliers for DAP and NPKS to ensure adequate availability during Kharif and Rabi seasons. All states have been asked to act strictly against hoarding and diversion through monitoring and enforcement. The CCS also reviewed price trends of essential commodities, with control rooms set up for real-time coordination with states and Union Territories under the Essential Commodities Act. Also Read: Political-terror nexus unmasked: Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif’s aide spotted with Hafiz Saeed’s son Talha The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of clear communication amid the evolving crisis. The PM underlined the need for timely and smooth flow of authentic information to the public to prevent misinformation and rumour mongering, it added. The committee also discussed global efforts to secure safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz besides broader initiatives to stabilise supply chains.

All states have been asked to act strictly against hoarding and diversion through monitoring and enforcement. The CCS also reviewed price trends of essential commodities, with control rooms set up for real-time coordination with states and UTs under the Essential Commodities Act.

PM chairs key meeting, orders steps to ensure supplies, curb price hike risks amid conflict

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to convene a virtual meeting with chief ministers on Friday (March 27) to deliberate on the ongoing West Asia conflict. However, chief ministers from poll-bound states are expected to skip the session. The meeting will likely centre on building a coordinated national response and reinforcing a collective ‘Team India’ approach.&nbsp;Speaking in Parliament, Modi adopted a measured yet firm stance on the crisis, warning that the conflict could lead to lasting global and domestic consequences. He highlighted the risk of a major energy crisis, stating that the fallout may endure and impact economies worldwide if tensions persist. He urged citizens to remain prepared for possible disruptions while assuring that the government is taking proactive steps to cushion the impact on India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-approval-slides-to-41-as-disapproval-reaches-record-high-fox-news-poll-1774527428192">Trump’s approval slides to 41% as disapproval reaches record high: Fox News poll</a>&nbsp;India’s strategy combines readiness with diplomatic engagement. The Centre has constituted seven empowered groups, similar to those formed during the pandemic, to oversee key sectors such as fuel supply, logistics, fertilisers, and inflation control. At the same time, efforts are underway to diversify energy imports by exploring new sources of crude oil and gas, ensuring steady access to essential commodities.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-12-police-officers-arrested-over-corruption-fraud-1774531782925/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-12-police-officers-arrested-over-corruption-fraud-1774531782925/embed</a>&nbsp;India has also pushed for dialogue and de-escalation as a pathway to resolving the conflict. On the domestic front, Modi emphasised the importance of a unified effort, urging states to work together to stabilise supply chains and support vulnerable sections of society. He also underlined the need to safeguard farmers and maintain access to essential goods for poor and migrant communities.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

PM Modi calls virtual meet with CMs to address West Asia conflict, urges 'Team India' approach

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to convene a virtual meeting with chief ministers on Friday (March 27) to deliberate on the ongoing West Asia conflict. However, chief ministers from poll-bound states are expected to skip the session. The meeting will likely centre on building a coordinated national response and reinforcing a collective ‘Team India’ approach. Speaking in Parliament, Modi adopted a measured yet firm stance on the crisis, warning that the conflict could lead to lasting global and domestic consequences. He highlighted the risk of a major energy crisis, stating that the fallout may endure and impact economies worldwide if tensions persist. He urged citizens to remain prepared for possible disruptions while assuring that the government is taking proactive steps to cushion the impact on India. Also Read: Trump’s approval slides to 41% as disapproval reaches record high: Fox News poll India’s strategy combines readiness with diplomatic engagement. The Centre has constituted seven empowered groups, similar to those formed during the pandemic, to oversee key sectors such as fuel supply, logistics, fertilisers, and inflation control. At the same time, efforts are underway to diversify energy imports by exploring new sources of crude oil and gas, ensuring steady access to essential commodities. https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-12-police-officers-arrested-over-corruption-fraud-1774531782925/embed India has also pushed for dialogue and de-escalation as a pathway to resolving the conflict. On the domestic front, Modi emphasised the importance of a unified effort, urging states to work together to stabilise supply chains and support vulnerable sections of society. He also underlined the need to safeguard farmers and maintain access to essential goods for poor and migrant communities. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

PM Narendra Modi to meet state CMs virtually on West Asia crisis, stressing preparedness, energy security, and a unified ‘Team India’ response.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ramped up her attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday and called him the “biggest infiltrator” while warning that those targeting her state would “go to hell”. Mamata alleged that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was part of a larger effort to influence next month's elections in Bengal.Addressing worshippers after Eid prayers at Kolkata’s Red Road, the CM described the upcoming assembly elections as a battle to protect democratic rights and Bengal’s plural social fabric.“We will not allow Modi ji and the BJP to take away your voting rights. We will fight till the end,” Banerjee said and told the gathering that she had approached courts from Kolkata to Delhi to challenge the process.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-condemns-iran-s-reckless-attacks-on-diego-garcia-terms-them-threat-to-british-interests-and-allies-1774096515620">UK condemns Iran’s ‘reckless attack’ on Diego Garcia, terms it ‘threat to British interests and allies’</a>&nbsp;“Those who target Bengal will go to hell. PM Modi and his government are the biggest infiltrators,” Mamata said.&nbsp;Illegal immigration has emerged as a hot issue ahead of the Bengal elections, with both PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah saying that large-scale infiltration has altered the demography of Bengal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Kolkata, West Bengal: After people offered namaz at Red Road, on Eid ul-Fitr, CM Mamata Banerjee says, &quot;...People&#39;s names were deleted in SIR. I went from Kolkata to Delhi, from Calcutta High Court to the Supreme Court for this. I hope that people&#39;s rights are… <a href="https://t.co/y6Spq65OLp">pic.twitter.com/y6Spq65OLp</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2035208263177052604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Banerjee used the occasion to highlight her party’s campaign narrative that the BJP was trying to influence the electoral process.&nbsp;The BJP leaders accuse the TMC government of encouraging infiltration from neighbouring Bangladesh to consolidate its minority vote bank.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-india-is-incredible-will-be-next-super-power-says-laura-loomer-in-dramatic-u-turn-after-9-day-visit-1774028096996">‘India is incredible, will be next super power,’ says Laura Loomer in dramatic U-turn after visit</a><h2>‘Those targeting Bengal, trying to divide people should go to hell’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;“Those who are targeting Bengal and trying to divide people should go to hell,” she said, drawing loud cheers.&nbsp;“Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians -- everyone lives together in Bengal. We will not allow anyone to break this unity,” Banerjee said.&nbsp;The TMC is seeking a fourth consecutive term in power, while the BJP is attempting to expand its footprint in the state.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-gives-nod-to-us-use-of-its-bases-for-strikes-on-iranian-sites-targeting-strait-of-hormuz-1774031166591">UK approves US use of its bases for strikes on Iranian sites targeting Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;The Muslim electorate, estimated to constitute nearly 30 per cent of Bengal's population, has historically played a crucial role in shaping electoral outcomes in several districts across the state.&nbsp;<h2>‘Lowering the dignity of constitutional offices,’ alleges BJP</h2>&nbsp;The BJP reacted sharply to Banerjee’s remarks, accusing her of lowering the dignity of constitutional offices.“Anyone who calls the prime minister of the country an infiltrator does not deserve to hold a constitutional post. I think she has lost her mind, she should visit Ranchi immediately,” said BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iranian-man-arrested-while-trying-to-enter-uk-s-nuclear-naval-base-with-woman-1774016970617">Iranian man arrested while trying to enter UK’s nuclear naval base with woman</a>&nbsp;The party also rejected the allegations on voter roll revision and said the exercise was being conducted by the EC to remove duplicate and ineligible names.&nbsp;Bengal assembly elections will be held in two phases on April 23 and April 29, and the results will be declared on May 4.

Addressing worshippers after Eid prayers, CM Mamata Banerjee described the upcoming assembly elections as a battle to protect democratic rights and Bengal’s plural social fabric. She used the occasion to highlight the narrative that the BJP was trying to influence the electoral process.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee ramped up her attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday and called him the “biggest infiltrator” while warning that those targeting her state would “go to hell”. Mamata alleged that the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls was part of a larger effort to influence next month's elections in Bengal. Addressing worshippers after Eid prayers at Kolkata’s Red Road, the CM described the upcoming assembly elections as a battle to protect democratic rights and Bengal’s plural social fabric. “We will not allow Modi ji and the BJP to take away your voting rights. We will fight till the end,” Banerjee said and told the gathering that she had approached courts from Kolkata to Delhi to challenge the process. Also Read: UK condemns Iran’s ‘reckless attack’ on Diego Garcia, terms it ‘threat to British interests and allies’ “Those who target Bengal will go to hell. PM Modi and his government are the biggest infiltrators,” Mamata said. Illegal immigration has emerged as a hot issue ahead of the Bengal elections, with both PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah saying that large-scale infiltration has altered the demography of Bengal.

Addressing worshippers after Eid prayers, CM Mamata Banerjee described the upcoming assembly elections as a battle to protect democratic rights and Bengal’s plural social fabric. She used the occasion to highlight the narrative that the BJP was trying to influence the electoral process.

‘Modi biggest infiltrator, those who target Bengal will go to hell,’ says Mamata at Eid event

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said war-like conditions and global tensions are affecting countries around the world, but the centre is working to ensure that Indian citizens face minimal hardship. While addressing a gathering during his visit to Assam ahead of the assembly election, PM Modi stated that the priority of the government is to reduce the impact of the West Asia conflict on the people of India.&nbsp;"Nowadays, conditions of war prevail all around the world. Our government is making every possible effort to ensure that the citizens of our country face the fewest hardships possible. Our objective is to minimise the impact of this war on the nation's citizens," the prime minister said.&nbsp;He lashed out at Congress, stating that the party had failed to act responsibly in a critical situation. "At this critical juncture, it was expected that the Congress party would fulfil the role of a responsible political entity. However, Congress has once again failed in this vital task concerning the national interest," Modi said.<h3>Opposition attempting to create panic: PM Modi</h3>According to the prime minister, the opposition was trying to create panic in the country. “The Congress is making every attempt to create panic within the country, hoping the nation gets entangled in difficulties, so that they can subsequently heap endless abuse upon PM Modi,” he said.&nbsp;Modi also alleged that forces across the world that are uncomfortable with India’s rapid development are influencing the opposition. “The forces across the globe that are unable to digest India's rapid development, the Congress is increasingly becoming a mere puppet in the hands of these very forces,” he said, urging citizens and youth in Assam to remain cautious of the party.&nbsp;Highlighting development in the region, the prime minister said both Assam and the Barak Valley are progressing steadily. He described Barak Valley as a region known for its language, literature and culture, and said it would soon emerge as a new hub of development. “The day is not far when Barak Valley will be recognised as a new centre of development,” Modi said.&nbsp;During his visit to Assam's Silchar town on Saturday, ahead of the assembly elections, PM Modi also unveiled projects worth Rs 23,550 crore. He participated in the 'bhoomi poojan' for the Rs 22,864-crore access-controlled expressway between Silchar in Cachar district and Shillong in Meghalaya, marking the project as the first of its kind in the Northeast.&nbsp;Officials confirmed that this 166-km four-lane greenfield high-speed corridor will run from 295 km to 252 km between Guwahati and Silchar, bringing down travel times from 8.5 hours to around 5 hours. PM Modi also participated in the'bhoomi poojan' for an elevated corridor on NH-306, from Trunk Road near Capital Point to Rangirkhari Point in Silchar, which is set to be constructed at Rs 565 crore.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ballistic-missile-fire-from-north-korea-confirms-south-korea-japan-1773464364385">North Korea fires about 10 ballistic missiles, confirms South Korea, Japan</a>

While addressing a gathering during his visit to Assam ahead of the assembly election, PM Modi stated that the priority of the government is to reduce the impact of the West Asia conflict on the people of India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said war-like conditions and global tensions are affecting countries around the world, but the centre is working to ensure that Indian citizens face minimal hardship. While addressing a gathering during his visit to Assam ahead of the assembly election, PM Modi stated that the priority of the government is to reduce the impact of the West Asia conflict on the people of India. "Nowadays, conditions of war prevail all around the world. Our government is making every possible effort to ensure that the citizens of our country face the fewest hardships possible. Our objective is to minimise the impact of this war on the nation's citizens," the prime minister said. He lashed out at Congress, stating that the party had failed to act responsibly in a critical situation. "At this critical juncture, it was expected that the Congress party would fulfil the role of a responsible political entity. However, Congress has once again failed in this vital task concerning the national interest," Modi said. Opposition attempting to create panic: PM Modi According to the prime minister, the opposition was trying to create panic in the country. “The Congress is making every attempt to create panic within the country, hoping the nation gets entangled in difficulties, so that they can subsequently heap endless abuse upon PM Modi,” he said. Modi also alleged that forces across the world that are uncomfortable with India’s rapid development are influencing the opposition. “The forces across the globe that are unable to digest India's rapid development, the Congress is increasingly becoming a mere puppet in the hands of these very forces,” he said, urging citizens and youth in Assam to remain cautious of the party. Highlighting development in the region, the prime minister said both Assam and the Barak Valley are progressing steadily. He described Barak Valley as a region known for its language, literature and culture, and said it would soon emerge as a new hub of development. “The day is not far when Barak Valley will be recognised as a new centre of development,” Modi said. During his visit to Assam's Silchar town on Saturday, ahead of the assembly elections, PM Modi also unveiled projects worth Rs 23,550 crore. He participated in the 'bhoomi poojan' for the Rs 22,864-crore access-controlled expressway between Silchar in Cachar district and Shillong in Meghalaya, marking the project as the first of its kind in the Northeast. Officials confirmed that this 166-km four-lane greenfield high-speed corridor will run from 295 km to 252 km between Guwahati and Silchar, bringing down travel times from 8.5 hours to around 5 hours. PM Modi also participated in the'bhoomi poojan' for an elevated corridor on NH-306, from Trunk Road near Capital Point to Rangirkhari Point in Silchar, which is set to be constructed at Rs 565 crore. Also read: North Korea fires about 10 ballistic missiles, confirms South Korea, Japan

While addressing a gathering during his visit to Assam ahead of the assembly election, PM Modi stated that the priority of the government is to reduce the impact of the West Asia conflict on the people of India.

‘Congress creating panic within country’: PM Modi accuses party during his Assam visit amid West Asia war

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday and conveyed his deep concern over the escalating hostilities, damage to civilian infrastructure, and the loss of civilian lives amid the ongoing war in West Asia. He also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy.The Prime Minister also said that the safety and security of Indian nationals and the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy remain India’s top priority.“Had a conversation with Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure,” Modi said on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-tanker-with-indian-captain-went-dark-to-cross-high-risk-strait-of-hormuz-reach-mumbai-1773315721972">Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Had a conversation with Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure. The safety and security of…&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2032149596617785442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“The safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, remain India’s top priorities. Reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/193-opposition-mps-sign-notice-seeking-removal-of-cec-gyanesh-kumar-from-post-1773334604336">193 opposition MPs sign notice seeking removal of CEC Gyanesh Kumar from post</a>&nbsp;The Indian government has been repeatedly stressing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve tensions in West Asia, following US-Israeli joint strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory attacks on US bases in Gulf countries having the Indian diaspora in considerable numbers.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Nearly 9,000 Indian nationals in Iran’: Govt &nbsp;</h2>Meanwhile, the Union government of India informed the Parliament on Thursday that there are nearly 9,000 Indian nationals, including students, businesspersons, factory workers, pilgrims, seafarers, and fishermen, in Iran at present.In a written response to a query in Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita said the Indian Embassy has advised Indian nationals in Iran to exercise utmost caution, maintain situational awareness, monitor local media for any developments, and stay in contact with the embassy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X that the safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, remain India’s top priorities. He also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday and conveyed his deep concern over the escalating hostilities, damage to civilian infrastructure, and the loss of civilian lives amid the ongoing war in West Asia. He also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy. The Prime Minister also said that the safety and security of Indian nationals and the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy remain India’s top priority. “Had a conversation with Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the serious situation in the region. Expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions and the loss of civilian lives as well as damage to civilian infrastructure,” Modi said on X. Also Read: Oil tanker, with Indian captain, went ‘dark’ to cross high-risk Strait of Hormuz, reach Mumbai

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on X that the safety and security of Indian nationals, along with the need for unhindered transit of goods and energy, remain India’s top priorities. He also reiterated India’s commitment to peace and stability and urged for dialogue and diplomacy.

PM Modi speaks to Iran’s President Pezeshkian, conveys concerns over conflict escalation, loss of lives and safety of Indians

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (March 3) held separate telephonic conversations with Haitham bin Tarik of Oman and Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, continuing India’s diplomatic outreach as tensions intensify across West Asia. The calls came a day after Modi spoke with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan, amid a widening conflict between Iran and the United States that has spread across the Gulf region. The escalation has led to airspace closures and raised concerns over oil supplies and energy infrastructure.&nbsp;During his conversations with the Omani Sultan and the Kuwaiti Crown Prince, Modi expressed concern over attacks in Gulf countries and discussed the safety of the Indian community residing there. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) voiced grave concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Iran and the Gulf. It reiterated that the safety and well-being of nearly one crore Indian nationals in the Middle East remains a top priority.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-there-are-almost-1-crore-indian-citizens-who-live-and-work-in-gulf-india-voices-grave-concern-over-expanding-conflict-1772540711262">'There are almost 1 crore Indian citizens who live and work in Gulf': India voices ‘grave concern’ over expanding conflict</a>&nbsp;On Monday, Modi had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, backing efforts to restore peace and stability in the region. He condemned attacks on both countries and stressed that the earliest restoration of regional stability was essential. Modi also thanked the Saudi Crown Prince for ensuring the welfare of the Indian community during what he described as “difficult times.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-at-war-with-iran-second-attack-on-the-omani-port-in-three-days-1772536495947/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-at-war-with-iran-second-attack-on-the-omani-port-in-three-days-1772536495947/embed</a>&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also reached out to his counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, including Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He additionally held discussions with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. With more than 700 reported fatalities in Iran and continued strikes across Gulf nations and Israel, the conflict shows no signs of abating.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US-Israel-Iran war: PM Modi speaks to Oman, Kuwait leaders as Gulf conflict deepens

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (March 3) held separate telephonic conversations with Haitham bin Tarik of Oman and Kuwait’s Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, continuing India’s diplomatic outreach as tensions intensify across West Asia. The calls came a day after Modi spoke with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Jordan, amid a widening conflict between Iran and the United States that has spread across the Gulf region. The escalation has led to airspace closures and raised concerns over oil supplies and energy infrastructure. During his conversations with the Omani Sultan and the Kuwaiti Crown Prince, Modi expressed concern over attacks in Gulf countries and discussed the safety of the Indian community residing there. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) voiced grave concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Iran and the Gulf. It reiterated that the safety and well-being of nearly one crore Indian nationals in the Middle East remains a top priority. Also Read: 'There are almost 1 crore Indian citizens who live and work in Gulf': India voices ‘grave concern’ over expanding conflict On Monday, Modi had spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, backing efforts to restore peace and stability in the region. He condemned attacks on both countries and stressed that the earliest restoration of regional stability was essential. Modi also thanked the Saudi Crown Prince for ensuring the welfare of the Indian community during what he described as “difficult times.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-us-at-war-with-iran-second-attack-on-the-omani-port-in-three-days-1772536495947/embed External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also reached out to his counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, including Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He additionally held discussions with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. With more than 700 reported fatalities in Iran and continued strikes across Gulf nations and Israel, the conflict shows no signs of abating. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Indian PM Narendra Modi speaks to Oman, Kuwait leaders as Iran–US conflict spreads, prioritising safety of one crore Indians and regional stability

The Israeli television show Fauda, developed by Lior Raz and Avi Issacharoff, gained recognition in which it showcased the experiences in the Israel Defence Forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his visit to Israel, met the cast members of the popular show and acknowledged the series' global impact.<h2>PM Narendra Modi's meet and greet with the Fauda cast</h2>Prime Minister Narendra Modi's X account shared a candid picture of him with the cast members of Fauda. Along with the picture, the caption read, "Thankfully, this interaction required only a selfie, no undercover work #Fauda."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/fauda-actor-idan-amedi-returns-to-frontline-duty-two-years-after-being-wounded-in-gaza-1768278557065">Fauda actor Idan Amedi returns to frontline duty two years after being wounded in Gaza</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-dnt="true" align="center">Thankfully, this interaction required only a selfie, no undercover work! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Fauda?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Fauda</a> <a href="https://t.co/u1tqG3RztB">pic.twitter.com/u1tqG3RztB</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/2027002038044017057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/what-made-harry-style-laugh-at-his-grandmother-s-funeral-it-feels-so-inappropriate-1772094823982">What made Harry Style laugh at his grandma's funeral: 'Feels so inappropriate..'</a>&nbsp;Fans flooded the comment section with the meetup, and one user wrote, "When reel life meets real life. A selfie is definitely easier than undercover ops! Great to see cultural connections and storytelling bringing people together. #Fauda." Another user wrote, "Love this light-hearted moment! A selfie says more than any undercover mission ever could. Great to see such warm cultural ties blooming. #Fauda." “When politics meets pop culture. Great to see such warm interactions beyond borders,” wrote the third user.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/crispin-glover-best-known-for-back-to-the-future-sued-for-fraud-details-inside-1772092224663">Crispin Glover, best known for Back to the Future sued for fraud; Details inside</a><h2>All about Fauda</h2>The Israeli television series, Fauda, basically draws on the experiences of Lior Raz and Avi Issacharoff, drawing on their experiences in the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). The first season premiered in 2015, the second season in 2017, the third season in 2019 &amp; 2020 and the fourth season in early 2023.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rishab-shetty-walks-away-as-he-is-asked-about-rashmika-mandanna-vijay-deverakonda-s-wedding-1772096573639">Rishab Shetty walks away as he is asked about Rashmika Mandanna’s wedding</a>&nbsp;Season 5 was filmed in 2025 and is scheduled to release in 2026. Reportedly, a film follow-up is in the works; however, the makers are yet to officially confirm it. The show features Lior Raz, Hisham Sulliman, Shadi Mar'i, Laëtitia Eïdo, Itzik Cohen and Yuval Segal, among others.&nbsp;In November 2019, content studio Applause Entertainment (promoted by Aditya Birla Group) announced an Indian adaptation of Fauda, which would depict the relationship between India and Pakistan. Tanaav, the Indian adaptation, premiered on SonyLIV on 11 November 2022.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his visit to Israel, met the cast members of the Israeli hit show Fauda. The show so far has released 4 seasons. 

The Israeli television show Fauda, developed by Lior Raz and Avi Issacharoff, gained recognition in which it showcased the experiences in the Israel Defence Forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his visit to Israel, met the cast members of the popular show and acknowledged the series' global impact. PM Narendra Modi's meet and greet with the Fauda cast Prime Minister Narendra Modi's X account shared a candid picture of him with the cast members of Fauda. Along with the picture, the caption read, "Thankfully, this interaction required only a selfie, no undercover work #Fauda." Also Read: Fauda actor Idan Amedi returns to frontline duty two years after being wounded in Gaza

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his visit to Israel, met the cast members of the Israeli hit show Fauda. The show so far has released 4 seasons.&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi meets the cast of Fauda during his visit to Israel | See pic

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was full of praise for Indian-origin players who are representing different nations in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. PM Modi, who took to his feature program “Mann ki Baat,” reflected on the Indian-origin players and their impact on the game while they are now donning jerseys of other nations. According to PM Modi, Indian players now representing other nations have given a sense of proud feeling for India.<h2>PM Modi lauds India-origin players</h2>"The jersey is that of some other country, but on hearing the name, you feel that this person is from our country. Then a slight joy arises in some corner of the heart," PM said.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;"There are countless such players of Indian origin who are bringing pride to their respective countries, becoming an inspiration for the youngsters there. This is the hallmark of Indianness. Wherever Indians go, they remain connected to the roots of their motherland and contribute to the development of their 'karambhoomi,' the country they live and work in," the prime minister said.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Players like Saurabh Netravalkar (USA), Dilpreet Bajwa (Canada), Navneet Dhaliwal (Canada), Monank Patel (USA), Harmeet Singh (USA) and Milind Kumar (USA) are some who were born in India and are now representing other nations. The USA’s performance has been notable as they reached the Super 8 stage in the 2024 T20 World Cup, while this time they won two matches.&nbsp;On the other hand, Canada, Oman and Italy also have players of Indian origin and they showed glimpses of their performance. However, none of the associate nations could make it through to the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8.

Players like Saurabh Netravalkar (USA), Dilpreet Bajwa (Canada), Navneet Dhaliwal (Canada), Monank Patel (USA), Harmeet Singh (USA) and Milind Kumar (USA) are some who were born in India and are now representing other nations. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was full of praise for Indian-origin players who are representing different nations in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. PM Modi, who took to his feature program “Mann ki Baat,” reflected on the Indian-origin players and their impact on the game while they are now donning jerseys of other nations. According to PM Modi, Indian players now representing other nations have given a sense of proud feeling for India. PM Modi lauds India-origin players "The jersey is that of some other country, but on hearing the name, you feel that this person is from our country. Then a slight joy arises in some corner of the heart," PM said. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds "There are countless such players of Indian origin who are bringing pride to their respective countries, becoming an inspiration for the youngsters there. This is the hallmark of Indianness. Wherever Indians go, they remain connected to the roots of their motherland and contribute to the development of their 'karambhoomi,' the country they live and work in," the prime minister said. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Players like Saurabh Netravalkar (USA), Dilpreet Bajwa (Canada), Navneet Dhaliwal (Canada), Monank Patel (USA), Harmeet Singh (USA) and Milind Kumar (USA) are some who were born in India and are now representing other nations. The USA’s performance has been notable as they reached the Super 8 stage in the 2024 T20 World Cup, while this time they won two matches. On the other hand, Canada, Oman and Italy also have players of Indian origin and they showed glimpses of their performance. However, none of the associate nations could make it through to the T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8.

Players like Saurabh Netravalkar (USA), Dilpreet Bajwa (Canada), Navneet Dhaliwal (Canada), Monank Patel (USA), Harmeet Singh (USA) and Milind Kumar (USA) are some who were born in India and are now representing other nations.&nbsp;

'Indian-origin players are bringing pride': PM Modi reflects on T20 World Cup 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a severe attack on the Congress party over the shirtless protest staged by its workers during the India AI Impact Summit, accusing the principal opposition party of converting a global platform into a stage for its “dirty and naked politics." “The protest embarrassed the country before international delegates attending the summit,” PM Modi said while addressing a public rally in Meerut after inaugurating development projects worth around Rs 12,930 crore.&nbsp;“The Congress turned a global event for India into a platform for its dirty and naked politics. Congress leaders reached the venue naked in front of foreign guests. The country already knows you are naked; why did you need to remove your clothes?” he said.Calling the incident proof of the party’s ideological decline, the prime minister alleged that Congress leaders were “busy defaming their own country.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-s-sls-rocket-faces-helium-flow-issue-artemis-ii-march-launch-almost-assuredly-scuttled-1771696356877">NASA’s SLS rocket faces helium flow issue, Artemis II March launch ‘almost assuredly’ scuttled</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Meerut, Uttar Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, &quot;... The Congress turned a global event for India into a platform for its dirty and naked politics. Congress leaders reached the venue naked in front of the foreign guests. I ask the Congress people, the country… <a href="https://t.co/fa5yKag8oq">https://t.co/fa5yKag8oq</a> <a href="https://t.co/81zAr1Qsar">pic.twitter.com/81zAr1Qsar</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2025495875175489800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;PM added that Congress leaders were praising those who heaped insult on India instead of expressing regret over the incident. “But unfortunately, leaders of such an old party, instead of being ashamed, are openly praising those who insult the country,” he said, adding that Congress allies had distanced themselves after the Delhi protest.“Only Congress leaders are hell-bent on ruining the country. If you want to sit in the Prime Minister’s chair, you must first win the trust of the people,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-will-not-bow-its-head-to-pressure-from-world-powers-says-president-masoud-pezeshkian-1771690465649">‘Iran will not bow its head to pressure from world powers,’ says President Masoud Pezeshkian</a>&nbsp;The remarks came days after around 10 Indian Youth Congress workers entered the venue using QR-coded passes and staged a protest inside Hall No. 5 of Bharat Mandapam in Delhi by removing their T-shirts and raising slogans against the Prime Minister.&nbsp;Security personnel quickly removed the protesters, though the disruption briefly startled delegates attending the global event.&nbsp;<h2>Brought ‘shame’ to the nation: Akhilesh Yadav</h2>&nbsp;Akhilesh Yadav, chief of Samajwadi Party which is a Congress ally and part of the INDIA bloc, also criticised the Indian Youth Congress’ shirtless protest, saying it brought “shame” to the nation. Speaking to reporters in Jhansi on Saturday, Akhilesh said that Congress should have refrained from such an act before foreign delegates.&nbsp;“We may have internal rifts; the whole nation knows that the BJP lies. But, they should have refrained from doing something that brings shame to our country in front of foreign delegates and world representatives,” the SP chief said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-president-lula-sign-rare-earths-deal-set-aim-for-over-20-billion-bilateral-trade-1771674319506">Modi and Lula sign rare earths deal, set target of over $20 billion bilateral trade in 5 years</a><h2>‘They made us all feel ashamed’: YSR Congress chief</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;YSR Congress chief YS Jagan Mohan Reddy also criticised the shirtless protest and wrote on X, “Yesterday at the AI Summit, the Youth Congress made us all feel ashamed. Where is our politics heading! No one should ever demean our country.”“Whatever our political differences may be, we should always present a united face to the world,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Utterly unbecoming and reprehensible’: Mayawati</h2>&nbsp;BSP president Mayawati also said that the protest by young Congress members at an internationally significant event like the AI Impact Summit was ‘utterly unbecoming and reprehensible’.“Had this conference not been of international stature, it would have been a different matter altogether; however, such conduct during the summit is a cause for concern, meaning it would be fitting not to tarnish the dignity and image of our country,” she posted on X.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-held-protest-like-nepal-gen-z-delhi-police-tells-court-on-youth-congress-shirtless-stir-at-ai-summit-1771670760953">‘Held Nepal Gen Z-like protest’: Delhi Police tells court on Youth Congress shirtless stir at AI Summit</a><h2>‘Congress topless, brainless, shameless’: BJP MP</h2>&nbsp;The ruling BJP had slammed the Congress and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi over the shirtless protest on Friday, calling it a “despicable act”. BJP MP Sambit Patra said, “Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Party are traitors of the highest order. The nation’s biggest traitors. Wherever the country progresses, wherever happiness prevails, they will surely spoil it. These are traitors...I have only three words for Congress: topless, brainless, shameless.”

The shirtless protest by Congress party leaders embarrassed the country before international delegates attending the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while addressing a public rally in Meerut after inaugurating development projects worth around Rs 12,930 crore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a severe attack on the Congress party over the shirtless protest staged by its workers during the India AI Impact Summit, accusing the principal opposition party of converting a global platform into a stage for its “dirty and naked politics." “The protest embarrassed the country before international delegates attending the summit,” PM Modi said while addressing a public rally in Meerut after inaugurating development projects worth around Rs 12,930 crore. “The Congress turned a global event for India into a platform for its dirty and naked politics. Congress leaders reached the venue naked in front of foreign guests. The country already knows you are naked; why did you need to remove your clothes?” he said. Calling the incident proof of the party’s ideological decline, the prime minister alleged that Congress leaders were “busy defaming their own country.” Also Read: NASA’s SLS rocket faces helium flow issue, Artemis II March launch ‘almost assuredly’ scuttled

The shirtless protest by Congress party leaders embarrassed the country before international delegates attending the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while addressing a public rally in Meerut after inaugurating development projects worth around Rs 12,930 crore.

‘Used global event for dirty, naked politics’: PM tears into Congress for shirtless protest at AI Summit

On Sunday (February 22), Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, inaugurated the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) and the Meerut Metro. The project is designed to improve connectivity between Delhi and Meerut, making it easier for people from nearby districts to access the national capital. PM Modi officially flagged off the project at the Shatabdi Nagar Namo Bharat Station.<h2>Watch PM Modi flagging off Namo Bharat RRTS, Meerut metro</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Meerut, Uttar Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags off Meerut Metro and Namo Bharat Train at Shatabdi Nagar Namo Bharat Station. From here, PM Modi will undertake a Metro Ride till Meerut South Station. Later, the Prime Minister will inaugurate and dedicate to… <a href="https://t.co/uYw8pxetwD">pic.twitter.com/uYw8pxetwD</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2025473542738088017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi then took a ride on the newly inaugurated Meerut Metro, traveling to the Meerut South station. Following this, he is set to inaugurate and dedicate several development projects in the region, worth approximately ₹12,930 crore.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-foils-major-terror-plot-8-arrested-with-links-to-pakistan-bangladesh-1771735730563">Delhi Police foil major terror plot: 8 arrested with links to Pakistan, Bangladesh</a><h2>Details about Namo Bharat RRTS, Meerut Metro project</h2>The Namo Bharat RRTS and the Meerut Metro project, developed at a total cost of ₹30,274 crore, spans approximately 82.15 km. This includes nearly 70 km of elevated track and 12 km of underground track. Earlier, rapid rail services operated only between Ashok Vihar and Meerut South. With the latest inauguration, trains will now run from Modipuram to Sarai Kale Khan, covering the entire 82-km route in just 55 minutes. The fare for the full journey is set at ₹213, with a per-kilometer charge of ₹2.60. The event also marks the introduction of metro rail services in Meerut, a significant milestone in the city’s urban transport modernisation.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-envoy-under-scrutiny-arab-nations-slam-huckabee-s-israel-remark-1771746256718/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-envoy-under-scrutiny-arab-nations-slam-huckabee-s-israel-remark-1771746256718/embed</a>&nbsp;After inaugurating the RRTS, Modi highlighted progress in the expansion of the metro network in India. “Before 2014, metro expansion in India was very slow. During the Congress government, metros operated in only five cities. Under the BJP government, metros are now running in over 25 cities,” PM Modi said. &nbsp;“Over the past 10-11 years, metros have reached dozens of cities, as the BJP government aims to provide citizens with convenient, high-speed, and pollution-free transport facilities.” PM Modi said. “A little while ago, I travelled on the Meerut Metro…During the journey, I interacted with many school and college students and other passengers. People recalled the old days, and especially women passengers told me that a few years ago, the entire route would be deserted by evening, creating an atmosphere of fear,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the law and order situation had improved. “People also have a convenient and safe means of travel,” Modi further added.

WATCH | PM Modi, Yogi Adityanath flag off Namo Bharat RRTS and Meerut metro; project will enhance regional connectivity 

On Sunday (February 22), Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, inaugurated the Namo Bharat Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) and the Meerut Metro. The project is designed to improve connectivity between Delhi and Meerut, making it easier for people from nearby districts to access the national capital. PM Modi officially flagged off the project at the Shatabdi Nagar Namo Bharat Station. Watch PM Modi flagging off Namo Bharat RRTS, Meerut metro

PM Modi, along with UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, inaugurated the Namo Bharat RRTS and Meerut Metro, enhancing connectivity between Delhi and Meerut

WATCH | PM Modi flags off India's fastest metro in Meerut; project will enhance regional connectivity

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed key agreements in areas including rare earth minerals, digital partnership and mining cooperation on Saturday and aimed to raise bilateral trade to $20 billion within five years. The two countries sought to deepen their strategic and economic ties. Addressing a joint press conference after delegation-level talks in New Delhi, PM Modi said, “I am delighted to welcome President Lula and his delegation to India. India-Brazil relations have long benefited from President Lula’s vision and inspiring leadership.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“We are committed to taking bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in the next five years. Our trade is not just a figure; it’s a reflection of trust.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-held-protest-like-nepal-gen-z-delhi-police-tells-court-on-youth-congress-shirtless-stir-at-ai-summit-1771670760953">‘Held Nepal Gen Z-like protest’: Delhi Police tells court on Youth Congress shirtless stir at AI Summit</a>&nbsp;He added that the expansion of the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement would further boost economic cooperation, as Brazil is India’s largest trading partner in Latin America.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>India, Brazil sign three agreements</h2>&nbsp;India and Brazil signed three agreements covering digital cooperation, critical minerals and mining supply chains.PM Modi described the critical minerals agreement as significant amid global supply chain concerns. “The agreement is a major step towards building resilient supply chains,” he said. The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in emerging technology sectors.“I am pleased that we are working on establishing a Centre of Excellence for Digital Public Infrastructure in Brazil. We are also prioritising our cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, supercomputers, semiconductors, and blockchain,” PM Modi said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-don-t-be-a-panican-trust-trump-republicans-aides-rally-behind-president-1771613397421">‘Don’t be a Panican! Trust Trump’: Republicans, aides rally behind president</a>&nbsp;Energy cooperation emerged as a key pillar of the talks, with both sides agreeing to accelerate collaboration in renewable energy and sustainable fuels.&nbsp;“Energy cooperation has been a strong pillar of our relationship. In addition to hydrocarbons, we are also accelerating cooperation in several areas, including renewable energy, ethanol blending, and sustainable aviation fuel,” PM said. &nbsp;He also hailed Brazil’s participation in global climate initiatives like Global Biofuel Alliance.&nbsp;<h2>‘A meeting of digital superpower with renewable energy superpower,’ says Lula&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;President Lula described the meeting as a partnership between two major global powers of the Global South and highlighted the strategic importance of India-Brazil relations. “My dear friend Modi, it is a reason of happiness for me to return to this country for the sixth time. The meeting between India and Brazil is a meeting of superlatives. We are not just the two biggest democracies of the Global South. This is a meeting of a digital superpower with a renewable energy superpower,” Lula said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-victory-for-americans-and-us-economy-democrats-rejoice-over-scotus-ruling-against-trump-s-tariffs-1771608358859">‘Victory for Americans and US economy’: Democrats rejoice over SCOTUS ruling against Trump’s tariffs</a>&nbsp;He said both countries share common positions on global governance and multilateral cooperation. “A turbulent global scenario requires our countries to strengthen and deepen our strategic dialogue. India and Brazil are crucial voices at the UN, the WTO and G20,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the expansion of the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement would further boost economic cooperation, as Brazil is India’s largest trading partner in Latin America. He added that the two nations aim to take bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in next five years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed key agreements in areas including rare earth minerals, digital partnership and mining cooperation on Saturday and aimed to raise bilateral trade to $20 billion within five years. The two countries sought to deepen their strategic and economic ties. Addressing a joint press conference after delegation-level talks in New Delhi, PM Modi said, “I am delighted to welcome President Lula and his delegation to India. India-Brazil relations have long benefited from President Lula’s vision and inspiring leadership.” “We are committed to taking bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in the next five years. Our trade is not just a figure; it’s a reflection of trust.” Also Read: ‘Held Nepal Gen Z-like protest’: Delhi Police tells court on Youth Congress shirtless stir at AI Summit He added that the expansion of the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement would further boost economic cooperation, as Brazil is India’s largest trading partner in Latin America. India, Brazil sign three agreements India and Brazil signed three agreements covering digital cooperation, critical minerals and mining supply chains. PM Modi described the critical minerals agreement as significant amid global supply chain concerns. “The agreement is a major step towards building resilient supply chains,” he said. The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in emerging technology sectors. “I am pleased that we are working on establishing a Centre of Excellence for Digital Public Infrastructure in Brazil. We are also prioritising our cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, supercomputers, semiconductors, and blockchain,” PM Modi said. Also Read: ‘Don’t be a Panican! Trust Trump’: Republicans, aides rally behind president Energy cooperation emerged as a key pillar of the talks, with both sides agreeing to accelerate collaboration in renewable energy and sustainable fuels. “Energy cooperation has been a strong pillar of our relationship. In addition to hydrocarbons, we are also accelerating cooperation in several areas, including renewable energy, ethanol blending, and sustainable aviation fuel,” PM said. He also hailed Brazil’s participation in global climate initiatives like Global Biofuel Alliance. ‘A meeting of digital superpower with renewable energy superpower,’ says Lula President Lula described the meeting as a partnership between two major global powers of the Global South and highlighted the strategic importance of India-Brazil relations. “My dear friend Modi, it is a reason of happiness for me to return to this country for the sixth time. The meeting between India and Brazil is a meeting of superlatives. We are not just the two biggest democracies of the Global South. This is a meeting of a digital superpower with a renewable energy superpower,” Lula said. Also Read: ‘Victory for Americans and US economy’: Democrats rejoice over SCOTUS ruling against Trump’s tariffs He said both countries share common positions on global governance and multilateral cooperation. “A turbulent global scenario requires our countries to strengthen and deepen our strategic dialogue. India and Brazil are crucial voices at the UN, the WTO and G20,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the expansion of the India–MERCOSUR trade agreement would further boost economic cooperation, as Brazil is India’s largest trading partner in Latin America. He added that the two nations aim to take bilateral trade beyond $20 billion in next five years.

Modi and Lula sign rare earths deal, set target of over $20 billion bilateral trade in 5 years

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