Narendra Modi to stake claim to form new govt. NDA arrives in Parliament to meet President Kovind. NDA is all set to endorse Narendra Modi as again Prime Minister of India. Watch this video to know more.

All leaders arrive for Parliamentary meet, NDA set to endorse Modi as PM

A solemn New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Friday the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mosque-attack-shootings-took-place-at-two-locations-says-police-203422">deadly mosque shootings in Christchurch</a> had plunged the country into one of its "darkest days".

"Clearly, what has happened here is an extraordinary and unprecedented act of violence," Ardern said in an address to a shocked nation.

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christchurch-mosque-attack-bangladesh-cricket-team-was-about-to-go-inside-safe-but-mentally-shocked-203418">gunman opened fire </a>inside the Masjid al Noor mosque during afternoon prayers, causing multiple fatalities.

"Many of those who will have been directly affected by this shooting may be migrants to New Zealand, they may even be refugees here," Ardern said.&nbsp;

"They have chosen to make New Zealand their home, and it is their home. They are us. The person who has perpetuated this violence against us is not."

"They should have been in a safe environment," she said.&nbsp;

One person is in custody, but police said it was not yet clear if there were other people involved.

"There is no place in New Zealand for such acts of extreme and unprecedented violence," Ardern added.

"For now, my thoughts, and I'm sure the thoughts of all New Zealanders, are with those who have been affected, and also with their families."

Her comments were echoed by the leader of the opposition Simon Bridges.

"We stand with and support the New Zealand Islamic community," he said.

"No one in this country should live in fear, no matter their race or religion, their politics or their beliefs."

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison was among the foreign leaders who expressed their concern.

"I'm horrified by the reports I'm following of the serious shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand," he said.

"The situation is still unfolding but our thoughts and prayers are with our Kiwi cousins."

A solemn New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Friday the deadly mosque shootings in Christchurch had plunged the country into one of its "darkest days".

A solemn New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Friday the deadly mosque shootings in Christchurch had plunged the country into one of its "darkest days". "Clearly, what has happened here is an extraordinary and unprecedented act of violence," Ardern said in an address to a shocked nation. A gunman opened fire inside the Masjid al Noor mosque during afternoon prayers, causing multiple fatalities. "Many of those who will have been directly affected by this shooting may be migrants to New Zealand, they may even be refugees here," Ardern said. "They have chosen to make New Zealand their home, and it is their home. They are us. The person who has perpetuated this violence against us is not." "They should have been in a safe environment," she said. One person is in custody, but police said it was not yet clear if there were other people involved. "There is no place in New Zealand for such acts of extreme and unprecedented violence," Ardern added. "For now, my thoughts, and I'm sure the thoughts of all New Zealanders, are with those who have been affected, and also with their families." Her comments were echoed by the leader of the opposition Simon Bridges. "We stand with and support the New Zealand Islamic community," he said. "No one in this country should live in fear, no matter their race or religion, their politics or their beliefs." Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison was among the foreign leaders who expressed their concern. "I'm horrified by the reports I'm following of the serious shooting in Christchurch, New Zealand," he said. "The situation is still unfolding but our thoughts and prayers are with our Kiwi cousins."

New Zealand enduring one of its 'darkest days', says PM Jacinda Ardern after mosque shooting

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi was qualified to be the prime minister.

Tejashwi is the second Opposition leader after Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin to propose the Congress chief`s name as the prime ministerial candidate. He stressed that the Gandhi scion was "capable and qualified" for the post.

"You have all the qualifications to become the next Prime Minister. Rahul Gandhi is capable and qualified for the post of Prime Minister. The biggest responsibility for the Congress is to take along all the other parties", Tejashwi said at the 'Jan Akanksha Rally'&nbsp;at the Gandhi Maidan in Patna.

He further said that if Gandhi became the Prime Minister, then he would focus more on Bihar.

The RJD leader said that the Congress` biggest responsibility was to save democracy in the country.

Tejashwi accused the BJP of not fulfilling all promises they made in 2014 and alleged that they were using institutions like CBI and ED to target its political opponents.

Earlier, Stalin, while addressing a rally in Chennai in December last year, said that if Gandhi became the Prime Minister, he could provide a stable government, adding that the Congress chief had the ability to defeat the "fascist" Narendra Modi-led government.

Later, the DMK chief defended his comments saying there was nothing wrong with his suggestion as he was merely expressing the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu."Yes, I did propose the name of Rahul Gandhi as the next prime ministerial candidate (for Lok Sabha elections) in the DMK rally. What is wrong with it? It was the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu," Stalin had said.

The comments by both Stalin and Tejashwi assumes significance when all the political parties have come forward ahead of the general elections, just a few months away, to defeat the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi was qualified to be the prime minister. Tejashwi is the second Opposition leader after Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin to propose the Congress chief`s name as the prime ministerial candidate.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday said Congress president Rahul Gandhi was qualified to be the prime minister. Tejashwi is the second Opposition leader after Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) president MK Stalin to propose the Congress chief`s name as the prime ministerial candidate. He stressed that the Gandhi scion was "capable and qualified" for the post. "You have all the qualifications to become the next Prime Minister. Rahul Gandhi is capable and qualified for the post of Prime Minister. The biggest responsibility for the Congress is to take along all the other parties", Tejashwi said at the 'Jan Akanksha Rally' at the Gandhi Maidan in Patna. He further said that if Gandhi became the Prime Minister, then he would focus more on Bihar. The RJD leader said that the Congress` biggest responsibility was to save democracy in the country. Tejashwi accused the BJP of not fulfilling all promises they made in 2014 and alleged that they were using institutions like CBI and ED to target its political opponents. Earlier, Stalin, while addressing a rally in Chennai in December last year, said that if Gandhi became the Prime Minister, he could provide a stable government, adding that the Congress chief had the ability to defeat the "fascist" Narendra Modi-led government. Later, the DMK chief defended his comments saying there was nothing wrong with his suggestion as he was merely expressing the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu."Yes, I did propose the name of Rahul Gandhi as the next prime ministerial candidate (for Lok Sabha elections) in the DMK rally. What is wrong with it? It was the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu," Stalin had said. The comments by both Stalin and Tejashwi assumes significance when all the political parties have come forward ahead of the general elections, just a few months away, to defeat the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government.

After Stalin, Tejashwi Yadav backs Rahul Gandhi as PM

Malaysian prosecutors on Monday charged former<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-malaysian-pms-wife-appears-court-face-corruption-charges-169315"> prime minister Najib Razak </a>with three more counts of money laundering, allegedly receiving the proceeds of illegal activities in his personal bank accounts.

After unexpectedly losing an election to Mahathir Mohamad in May last year, Najib has been slapped with a series of corruption charges, mostly tied to losses at now-defunct state fund 1MDB.

The latest charges bring the total number against him to 42.

Najib has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and has consistently denied wrongdoing. The first of his four trials start on February 12.

Prosecutors on Monday alleged that Najib received in his private bank account a total of 47 million ringgit ($11.44 million) in proceeds of illegal activities, according to charge sheets seen by Reuters.

A conviction on each charge would involve a maximum fine of 5 million ringgit or imprisonment of up to five years or both.

National news agency Bernama reported that Najib had pleaded not guilty to the new charges.

The US&nbsp;Justice Department has estimated that a total of $4.5 billion was misappropriated by high-level officials at 1MDB and their associates between 2009 and 2014.

Najib founded the fund.

The new government led by Prime Minister Mahathir reopened investigations into 1MDB after the election victory.

Najib's former treasury chief, Mohamad Irwan Serigar Abdullah, and former 1MDB chief executive Arul Kanda Kandasamy have also been charged over 1MDB. They have both denied wrongdoing.

Malaysia last month filed charges against Goldman Sachs in connection with its role as underwriter and arranger of bond sales that raised $6.5 billion for 1MDB.

Goldman Sachs has consistently denied wrongdoing and said certain members of the former Malaysian government and 1MDB lied to the bank about the proceeds of the bond sales.

Malaysian prosecutors on Monday charged former prime minister Najib Razak with three more counts of money laundering, allegedly receiving the proceeds of illegal activities in his personal bank accounts.

Malaysian prosecutors on Monday charged former prime minister Najib Razak with three more counts of money laundering, allegedly receiving the proceeds of illegal activities in his personal bank accounts. After unexpectedly losing an election to Mahathir Mohamad in May last year, Najib has been slapped with a series of corruption charges, mostly tied to losses at now-defunct state fund 1MDB. The latest charges bring the total number against him to 42. Najib has pleaded not guilty to all the charges and has consistently denied wrongdoing. The first of his four trials start on February 12. Prosecutors on Monday alleged that Najib received in his private bank account a total of 47 million ringgit ($11.44 million) in proceeds of illegal activities, according to charge sheets seen by Reuters. A conviction on each charge would involve a maximum fine of 5 million ringgit or imprisonment of up to five years or both. National news agency Bernama reported that Najib had pleaded not guilty to the new charges. The US Justice Department has estimated that a total of $4.5 billion was misappropriated by high-level officials at 1MDB and their associates between 2009 and 2014. Najib founded the fund. The new government led by Prime Minister Mahathir reopened investigations into 1MDB after the election victory. Najib's former treasury chief, Mohamad Irwan Serigar Abdullah, and former 1MDB chief executive Arul Kanda Kandasamy have also been charged over 1MDB. They have both denied wrongdoing. Malaysia last month filed charges against Goldman Sachs in connection with its role as underwriter and arranger of bond sales that raised $6.5 billion for 1MDB. Goldman Sachs has consistently denied wrongdoing and said certain members of the former Malaysian government and 1MDB lied to the bank about the proceeds of the bond sales.

Former Malaysian PM Rajak faces three more money laundering charges

United Nations General Assembly President Maria Fernanda <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-president-maria-espinosa-to-visit-pakistan-next-week-189984">Espinosa will meet Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan </a>and other top leaders of the country Friday, her spokesperson has said.

"Espinosa will be in Islamabad, Pakistan, on the first working day of her official trip to the country," spokesperson Monica Villella Grayly said Thursday.

The UNGA chief will have bilateral meetings with PM Khan, President Arif Alvi and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, she said.

The Pakistan president will host a dinner reception for Espinosa, Grayly told reporters at a news conference held at the UN headquarters in New York.

Espinosa will continue on her visit meeting with the UN team in Pakistan, including the leaders of all UN agencies in the country, her spokesperson said.&nbsp;

United Nations General Assembly President Maria Fernanda Espinosa will meet Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and other top leaders of the country Friday, her spokesperson has said.

United Nations General Assembly President Maria Fernanda Espinosa will meet Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and other top leaders of the country Friday, her spokesperson has said. "Espinosa will be in Islamabad, Pakistan, on the first working day of her official trip to the country," spokesperson Monica Villella Grayly said Thursday. The UNGA chief will have bilateral meetings with PM Khan, President Arif Alvi and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, she said. The Pakistan president will host a dinner reception for Espinosa, Grayly told reporters at a news conference held at the UN headquarters in New York. Espinosa will continue on her visit meeting with the UN team in Pakistan, including the leaders of all UN agencies in the country, her spokesperson said.

UNGA president Maria Fernanda Espinosa to meet Pakistan PM on Friday

Buoyed by the new SP-BSP alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections, at least one Bahujan Samaj Party leader has gone on social media projecting party chief Mayawati as the next prime minister.

Senior BSP leader Sudhindra Bhadoria shared a poster expressing the wish on his certified Twitter handle while congratulating Mayawati Tuesday on her 63rd birthday, celebrated as `Jan Kalyankari Diwas' or Public Welfare Day.

Bhadoria tweeted that it was his dream to see the BSP chief become prime minister.

The poster, purportedly issued by the BSP's Karnataka unit, declares "Mayawati India's to-be Prime Minister".

The sentiment seemed to have surfaced in Mayawati's own address to the media on her birthday.

"UP decides who will come to power at the Centre and who will be the prime minister. The BSP and the SP must fight together, setting aside their differences and ensure the victory of all alliance candidates," she said, apparently hinting at her prime ministerial ambitions.

At last week's joint press conference, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav had avoided a direct reply when asked if he would support Mayawati for the prime minister's post if the situation arose.

"You know whom I will support,"&nbsp;he had said. "I have said in the past that UP has always given the PM (to the country) and I will be happy if it gives a PM again."

The SP-BSP combine has announced it will not put up candidates in Amethi and Rae Bareli, the seats from where Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi contest for the Lok Sabha.

But at the same time, she has criticised the Congress for its policies over the years, implicitly ruling out the two leaders as her choice for the prime minister's post - at least at this stage.

The SP and the BSP had declared a 50-50 seat-sharing deal under which each party will contest 38 Lok Sabha seats out of the 80 in the state.

In addition to the two seats for the Congress, the SP-BSP alliance has also declared it will leave two seats for its smaller allies, who are yet to be formally named.

After being snubbed by the new alliance, the Congress has said it will contest all Lok Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Buoyed by the new SP-BSP alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections, at least one Bahujan Samaj Party leader has gone on social media projecting party chief Mayawati as the next prime minister.

Buoyed by the new SP-BSP alliance for the coming Lok Sabha elections, at least one Bahujan Samaj Party leader has gone on social media projecting party chief Mayawati as the next prime minister. Senior BSP leader Sudhindra Bhadoria shared a poster expressing the wish on his certified Twitter handle while congratulating Mayawati Tuesday on her 63rd birthday, celebrated as `Jan Kalyankari Diwas' or Public Welfare Day. Bhadoria tweeted that it was his dream to see the BSP chief become prime minister. The poster, purportedly issued by the BSP's Karnataka unit, declares "Mayawati India's to-be Prime Minister". The sentiment seemed to have surfaced in Mayawati's own address to the media on her birthday. "UP decides who will come to power at the Centre and who will be the prime minister. The BSP and the SP must fight together, setting aside their differences and ensure the victory of all alliance candidates," she said, apparently hinting at her prime ministerial ambitions. At last week's joint press conference, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav had avoided a direct reply when asked if he would support Mayawati for the prime minister's post if the situation arose. "You know whom I will support," he had said. "I have said in the past that UP has always given the PM (to the country) and I will be happy if it gives a PM again." The SP-BSP combine has announced it will not put up candidates in Amethi and Rae Bareli, the seats from where Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi contest for the Lok Sabha. But at the same time, she has criticised the Congress for its policies over the years, implicitly ruling out the two leaders as her choice for the prime minister's post - at least at this stage. The SP and the BSP had declared a 50-50 seat-sharing deal under which each party will contest 38 Lok Sabha seats out of the 80 in the state. In addition to the two seats for the Congress, the SP-BSP alliance has also declared it will leave two seats for its smaller allies, who are yet to be formally named. After being snubbed by the new alliance, the Congress has said it will contest all Lok Sabha seats from Uttar Pradesh.

Mayawati should be PM, party leader tweets

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/the-rise-and-fall-of-pakistans-nawaz-sharif-186358">Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif </a>will challenge his conviction in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case in the Islamabad High Court this week, his lawyer said on Sunday after the PML-N supremo was sentenced to seven years in jail for corruption.

Three cases - Avenfield properties case, Flagship Investment case and Al-Azizia Steel Mills case - were launched<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ousted-pakistan-pm-nawaz-sharif-shifted-to-kot-lakhpat-jail-in-lahore-186373"> against the Sharif family</a> by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on September 8, 2017, following a judgment by the Supreme Court that disqualified Sharif as prime minister in the high-profile Panama Papers case in July last year.

Last Monday, an anti-corruption court in Islamabad sentenced 68-year-old Sharif to seven years in jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case but acquitted him in the Flagship Investment case.

The accountability court had also imposed a fine of $ 2.5 million and 1.5 million pounds on Sharif.

"We have almost finalised the draft of the appeal against the verdict (against Sharif) and will file it in the Islamabad High Court this week," Sharif's lawyer Khwaja Haris told PTI. He said, "We are hopeful to get relief from the high court as there are many loopholes in the judgment of the accountability court".

Sharif's legal team also called on him at Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore on Saturday and discussed with him legal matters related to the appeal challenging the accountability court's verdict. They also met his daughter Maryam Nawaz at the Sharif's Jati Umra residence in Raiwind and discussed the case.

The accountability court had also barred Sharif from holding public office for 10 years after completing his sentence. It also ordered confiscation of his Hill Metal Establishment firm and issued perpetual warrants of arrest for his sons - Hussain and Hassan - who had been declared proclaimed offenders.

This was the second conviction of three-time prime minister Sharif this year, as he had been convicted for 10 years, along with his daughter Maryam Nawaz (seven years) and son-in-law Mohammad Safdar (one year), in the Avenfield case in July.

The Islamabad High Court had suspended their sentence and they were released on September 19 after spending 63 days in prison. The three corruption references were filed in the court against the Sharif family following revelations of their offshore holdings in the Panama Papers in 2016.

Sharif spent a night in Adialia jail in Rawalpindi after his conviction on Monday and was shifted to Kot Lakhpat jail the next day.

Sharif's younger brother and PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif is also incarcerated at the Kot Lakhpat jail in the Rs 14 billion Ashiyana Housing scam.

According to jail sources, both brothers meet each other as they are in the same barrack. Shahbaz, also the opposition leader in the National Assembly, will be shifted to Islamabad when the parliamentary session is underway.&nbsp;

The PML-N has expressed hope that Sharif will get relief from the high court as no corruption has been proven against him.

"According to our legal team the judgment of the accountability court is very weak and we have strong grounds to pin hopes to get relief from the high court," said PML-N senior leader and former federal minister Ahsan Iqbal.

He said in the Al-Azizia case "justice has not been served as there are many loopholes in the judgment".&nbsp;

Three cases - Avenfield properties case, Flagship Investment case and Al-Azizia Steel Mills case - were launched against the Sharif family by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on September 8, 2017.

Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif will challenge his conviction in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case in the Islamabad High Court this week, his lawyer said on Sunday after the PML-N supremo was sentenced to seven years in jail for corruption. Three cases - Avenfield properties case, Flagship Investment case and Al-Azizia Steel Mills case - were launched against the Sharif family by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on September 8, 2017, following a judgment by the Supreme Court that disqualified Sharif as prime minister in the high-profile Panama Papers case in July last year. Last Monday, an anti-corruption court in Islamabad sentenced 68-year-old Sharif to seven years in jail in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills case but acquitted him in the Flagship Investment case. The accountability court had also imposed a fine of $ 2.5 million and 1.5 million pounds on Sharif. "We have almost finalised the draft of the appeal against the verdict (against Sharif) and will file it in the Islamabad High Court this week," Sharif's lawyer Khwaja Haris told PTI. He said, "We are hopeful to get relief from the high court as there are many loopholes in the judgment of the accountability court". Sharif's legal team also called on him at Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore on Saturday and discussed with him legal matters related to the appeal challenging the accountability court's verdict. They also met his daughter Maryam Nawaz at the Sharif's Jati Umra residence in Raiwind and discussed the case. The accountability court had also barred Sharif from holding public office for 10 years after completing his sentence. It also ordered confiscation of his Hill Metal Establishment firm and issued perpetual warrants of arrest for his sons - Hussain and Hassan - who had been declared proclaimed offenders. This was the second conviction of three-time prime minister Sharif this year, as he had been convicted for 10 years, along with his daughter Maryam Nawaz (seven years) and son-in-law Mohammad Safdar (one year), in the Avenfield case in July. The Islamabad High Court had suspended their sentence and they were released on September 19 after spending 63 days in prison. The three corruption references were filed in the court against the Sharif family following revelations of their offshore holdings in the Panama Papers in 2016. Sharif spent a night in Adialia jail in Rawalpindi after his conviction on Monday and was shifted to Kot Lakhpat jail the next day. Sharif's younger brother and PML-N president Shahbaz Sharif is also incarcerated at the Kot Lakhpat jail in the Rs 14 billion Ashiyana Housing scam. According to jail sources, both brothers meet each other as they are in the same barrack. Shahbaz, also the opposition leader in the National Assembly, will be shifted to Islamabad when the parliamentary session is underway. The PML-N has expressed hope that Sharif will get relief from the high court as no corruption has been proven against him. "According to our legal team the judgment of the accountability court is very weak and we have strong grounds to pin hopes to get relief from the high court," said PML-N senior leader and former federal minister Ahsan Iqbal. He said in the Al-Azizia case "justice has not been served as there are many loopholes in the judgment".

Ousted Pakistan PM Nawaz Sharif to challenge conviction in graft case

Wion Exclusive: In conversation with Enrico Letta, Former PM, Italy

PM Modi visits Kedarnath on Diwali

Citing disbursal of loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna (PMMY), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said "unprecedented" employment and entrepreneurial opportunities exist in the country today.

PM Modi addressed the employees of Hari Krishna Exports, a prominent Suarat-based diamond processing-exporting firm, through video conference from Delhi.

The company, led by&nbsp;Savji Dholakia, gifted 600 cars&nbsp;to its employees on Thursday as Diwali bonus at an event named as 'Hari Krishna Skill India Incentive Ceremony'.

"Around 14 crore loans were disbursed across the country under this (Mudra) scheme. Out of these, 40 lakh loans were given to the youth of Gujarat. In the last four years, loans worth&nbsp;Rs.&nbsp;7 lakh crore were disbursed under this scheme," PM Modi said in his speech.

"Out of all those who took loans under Mudra, over 3.5 crore youth were first-time entrepreneurs, as they have chosen the path of self-employment for the first time. Today, there exist unprecedented employment as well as entrepreneurial opportunities in the country," the prime minister said.

The prime minister said his government has been taking many steps to strengthen the gems and jewellery sector, as it is a significant generator of employment and a key contributor to the exports.

Referring to the "Main Nahin Hum" portal and app launched on Wednesday, PM Modi urged the company and its employees to dedicate some time for social causes.

He appealed that&nbsp;Dholakia and his company to set themselves a target of making at least 100 villages "digital" by 2022.

The Prime Minister will be visiting Gujarat on October 31 to dedicate the Statue of Unity of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, PM Modi said. "The biggest Diwali for Gujarat will be on October 31, when the Statue of Unity will be dedicated to the nation," he said.

Citing disbursal of loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna (PMMY), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said "unprecedented" employment and entrepreneurial opportunities exist in the country today.

Citing disbursal of loans under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna (PMMY), Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said "unprecedented" employment and entrepreneurial opportunities exist in the country today. PM Modi addressed the employees of Hari Krishna Exports, a prominent Suarat-based diamond processing-exporting firm, through video conference from Delhi. The company, led by Savji Dholakia, gifted 600 cars to its employees on Thursday as Diwali bonus at an event named as 'Hari Krishna Skill India Incentive Ceremony'. "Around 14 crore loans were disbursed across the country under this (Mudra) scheme. Out of these, 40 lakh loans were given to the youth of Gujarat. In the last four years, loans worth Rs. 7 lakh crore were disbursed under this scheme," PM Modi said in his speech. "Out of all those who took loans under Mudra, over 3.5 crore youth were first-time entrepreneurs, as they have chosen the path of self-employment for the first time. Today, there exist unprecedented employment as well as entrepreneurial opportunities in the country," the prime minister said. The prime minister said his government has been taking many steps to strengthen the gems and jewellery sector, as it is a significant generator of employment and a key contributor to the exports. Referring to the "Main Nahin Hum" portal and app launched on Wednesday, PM Modi urged the company and its employees to dedicate some time for social causes. He appealed that Dholakia and his company to set themselves a target of making at least 100 villages "digital" by 2022. The Prime Minister will be visiting Gujarat on October 31 to dedicate the Statue of Unity of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, PM Modi said. "The biggest Diwali for Gujarat will be on October 31, when the Statue of Unity will be dedicated to the nation," he said.

India has unprecedented employment opportunities: PM Modi

Continuing with its campaign against the government over the Rafale deal, the Congress Sunday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was directly involved in it, adding that he had much to hide about it.

Questioning Modi's silence over the deal, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma claimed that only the prime minister was aware that the offset contracts would not be given to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

"It was his (Modi's) decision. Only he was privy to what he was going to do," Sharma said, addressing a press conference at the party office here.

It was expected that the prime minister would speak on this issue of national importance, but he continued to remain silent while making tall claims about his government, the Congress leader said.

"The prime minister has much to hide in the Rafale deal. His silence raises fundamental questions, because he is directly complicit and personally accountable for it," he alleged.

Claiming that the Rafale deal was the biggest scam in the history of the country, Sharma reiterated his party's demand for setting up a Joint Parliamentary Committee to look into it.

The former Union minister also questioned Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's visit to France, during which she will take stock of the progress of French firm Dassault Aviation supplying 36 Rafale jets to the Indian Air Force under the Rs 58,000-crore deal.

Sharma maintained that there was a hike in the price of the fighter aircraft India was buying from France and asserted that the prime minister needed to clear many doubts about the deal that had been raised.

He said more details of the deal would emerge if a forensic audit of it was carried out.

The Congress has been claiming that the aircraft will cost significantly more than what the previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government was negotiating.

The opposition party has also been demanding answers from the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government as to why HAL was not involved in the deal as finalised during the UPA regime.

Continuing with its campaign against the government over the Rafale deal, the Congress Sunday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was directly involved in it, adding that he had much to hide about it.

Continuing with its campaign against the government over the Rafale deal, the Congress Sunday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was directly involved in it, adding that he had much to hide about it. Questioning Modi's silence over the deal, senior Congress leader Anand Sharma claimed that only the prime minister was aware that the offset contracts would not be given to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). "It was his (Modi's) decision. Only he was privy to what he was going to do," Sharma said, addressing a press conference at the party office here. It was expected that the prime minister would speak on this issue of national importance, but he continued to remain silent while making tall claims about his government, the Congress leader said. "The prime minister has much to hide in the Rafale deal. His silence raises fundamental questions, because he is directly complicit and personally accountable for it," he alleged. Claiming that the Rafale deal was the biggest scam in the history of the country, Sharma reiterated his party's demand for setting up a Joint Parliamentary Committee to look into it. The former Union minister also questioned Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's visit to France, during which she will take stock of the progress of French firm Dassault Aviation supplying 36 Rafale jets to the Indian Air Force under the Rs 58,000-crore deal. Sharma maintained that there was a hike in the price of the fighter aircraft India was buying from France and asserted that the prime minister needed to clear many doubts about the deal that had been raised. He said more details of the deal would emerge if a forensic audit of it was carried out. The Congress has been claiming that the aircraft will cost significantly more than what the previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government was negotiating. The opposition party has also been demanding answers from the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government as to why HAL was not involved in the deal as finalised during the UPA regime.

PM has much to hide about Rafale deal: Congress

Jordan's Prime Minister Hani Mulki submitted his resignation to King Abdullah on Monday, an official source said, to soothe widespread anger over economic policies that have sparked the largest protests in several years and dozens of arrests.

Thousands of&nbspJordanians took to the streets of the capital Amman and main provincial towns again on Sunday, extending days of protests that have shaken&nbspJordan, a staunch U.S. ally that has remained stable through years of turmoil in the region.

Police chief Major General Fadel al-Hamoud said security forces had detained 60 people for breaking the law during the protests and 42 security force members had been injured, but protests remained under control.

"Rest assured,&nbspJordan&nbspis a safe and secure country, and things are under control," said Major General Hussein Hawatmeh, head of the Gendarmerie security department, appearing along with Hamoud at a news conference.

Public anger has grown over government policies since a steep general sales tax hike earlier this year and the abolition of bread subsidies, both measures driven by the International Monetary Fund.

Political sources earlier said Abdullah had summoned Mulki for an audience in the king's palace.

In a sign the tax hikes could be shelved, the Petra news agency, citing the speaker of parliament, said lawmakers were on course to ask the king's permission to hold an exceptional session, with a majority demanding the changes be withdrawn.

Mulki, a business-friendly politician, was appointed in May 2016 and given the responsibility of reviving a sluggish economy and business sentiment hit by regional turmoil. The tax increases have caused his popularity to plummet.

The protests, the biggest in&nbspJordan&nbspin years, widened on Saturday after Mulki refused to scrap a bill increasing personal and corporate taxes, saying it was up to parliament to decide.

Demonstrators who converged near the Cabinet office said they would disband only if the government rescinded the tax bill it sent to parliament last month.

"The government has made us penniless ... they have left us with no more money in our pockets," chanted protesters.

Unions representing tens of thousands of employees in both the public and private sectors have also called for a general strike on Wednesday after their demands for the bill to be scrapped were rejected by the government.

The government says it needs more funds for public services and argues that the tax changes reduce social disparities by placing a heavier burden on high earners. Opponents say a tough IMF-imposed fiscal consolidation plan has worsened the plight of poorer&nbspJordanians and squeezed the middle class.

Jordan's economy has struggled to grow in the past few years in the face of chronic deficits, as private foreign capital and aid flows have declined.

Protesters also criticise politicians for squandering public funds and corruption.

"Our demands are legitimate. No, no to corruption," chanted the demonstrators urging King Abdullah, who is seen as a unifying force, to intervene and crack down on official graft.

Thousands of Jordanians took to the streets of the capital Amman and main provincial towns again on Sunday, extending days of protests that have shaken Jordan, a staunch US ally that has remained stable through years of turmoil in the region

Jordan's Prime Minister Hani Mulki submitted his resignation to King Abdullah on Monday, an official source said, to soothe widespread anger over economic policies that have sparked the largest protests in several years and dozens of arrests. Thousands of&nbspJordanians took to the streets of the capital Amman and main provincial towns again on Sunday, extending days of protests that have shaken&nbspJordan, a staunch U.S. ally that has remained stable through years of turmoil in the region. Police chief Major General Fadel al-Hamoud said security forces had detained 60 people for breaking the law during the protests and 42 security force members had been injured, but protests remained under control. "Rest assured,&nbspJordan&nbspis a safe and secure country, and things are under control," said Major General Hussein Hawatmeh, head of the Gendarmerie security department, appearing along with Hamoud at a news conference. Public anger has grown over government policies since a steep general sales tax hike earlier this year and the abolition of bread subsidies, both measures driven by the International Monetary Fund. Political sources earlier said Abdullah had summoned Mulki for an audience in the king's palace. In a sign the tax hikes could be shelved, the Petra news agency, citing the speaker of parliament, said lawmakers were on course to ask the king's permission to hold an exceptional session, with a majority demanding the changes be withdrawn. Mulki, a business-friendly politician, was appointed in May 2016 and given the responsibility of reviving a sluggish economy and business sentiment hit by regional turmoil. The tax increases have caused his popularity to plummet. The protests, the biggest in&nbspJordan&nbspin years, widened on Saturday after Mulki refused to scrap a bill increasing personal and corporate taxes, saying it was up to parliament to decide. Demonstrators who converged near the Cabinet office said they would disband only if the government rescinded the tax bill it sent to parliament last month. "The government has made us penniless ... they have left us with no more money in our pockets," chanted protesters. Unions representing tens of thousands of employees in both the public and private sectors have also called for a general strike on Wednesday after their demands for the bill to be scrapped were rejected by the government. The government says it needs more funds for public services and argues that the tax changes reduce social disparities by placing a heavier burden on high earners. Opponents say a tough IMF-imposed fiscal consolidation plan has worsened the plight of poorer&nbspJordanians and squeezed the middle class. Jordan's economy has struggled to grow in the past few years in the face of chronic deficits, as private foreign capital and aid flows have declined. Protesters also criticise politicians for squandering public funds and corruption. "Our demands are legitimate. No, no to corruption," chanted the demonstrators urging King Abdullah, who is seen as a unifying force, to intervene and crack down on official graft.

Jordan's PM submits resignation after protests, source says

On the third and last day of his Singapore visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met former Singaporean premier and Emeritus Senior Minister (ESM) Goh Chok Tong here on Saturday.

The two leaders held talks on issues of mutual interest.

ESM Goh served as the country's second prime minister from 1990 to 2004. Prior to this, he also served as the deputy prime minister of Singapore from 1985 to 1990.

ESM Goh has also served in several cabinet berths under the first Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew and most notably as Senior Minister under incumbent Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's cabinet from 2004 to 2011.

In 2011, Prime Minister Lee appointed Goh as Emeritus Senior Minister. He is also a senior advisor to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), which is the country's central bank.

After the meeting, Prime Minister Modi will unveil the plaque marking the immersion site of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier.

Prime Minister Modi will then hold a meeting with US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis.

Mattis had served as the Marine Corps Reserve for over four decades before retiring in 2013. In January 2017, US President Donald Trump appointed Mattis as his defence secretary.

Next, Prime Minister Modi will visit the National Orchid Garden, which is located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. It is the only tropical garden to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Singapore?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Singapore</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Singapore's former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong also present. <a href="https://t.co/W8uUs6bezs">pic.twitter.com/W8uUs6bezs</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002734145141739520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Singapore?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Singapore</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Singapore's former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong also present. <a href="https://t.co/nrZdxMHDQW">pic.twitter.com/nrZdxMHDQW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1002734252008431617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Prime Minister will pay a visit to Chuliya Mosque, one of the oldest mosques of Singapore located in Chinatown. It has been the country's national monument since 1974.

Prime Minister Modi will visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, which is located nearby to the Chuliya Mosque and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.

He will next visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, also located in Chinatown. The temple gets its name from what the Buddhists regard as the left canine tooth of Lord Buddha, which was recovered from his funeral pyre in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, according to visitsingapore.com.

After this, the Prime Minister will visit the Indian Heritage Centre, situated in Little India.

Lastly, Prime Minister Modi will visit by going to Changi Naval Base, where he will see the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Satpura and interact with officers and sailors of the Indian Navy and Royal Singapore Navy.

After these engagements, he will emplane for New Delhi, concluding his five-day visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

India and Singapore held a wide-range discussion on strategic and economic issues, technology and innovation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Southeast Asian nation, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday.

"Discussions were held on strategic and economic issues and technology and innovation. Prime Minister Modi in his discussion to the leadership of Singapore conveyed our intention to play a balanced and constructive cooperative role in advancing peace and stability in the entire region," MEA Secretary (East) Preeti Saran said while briefing the media.

While addressing a keynote at the Shangri-La Dialogue on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc as "architecture of peace and security in the region" and an "example and inspiration" for international cooperation.

He noted that the Southeast Asian region has maritime and territorial, political, defence, and economic ties with India.

Further, referring to the significance of Indo-Pacific region, Prime Minister Modi said, "India stands for a free, open, inclusive region which includes all nations in this geography as also others beyond who have a stake in it."

The Prime Minister highlighted the deepening bilateral ties of India and China and said the world would be a better place if the two Asian giants work together in trust and confidence.

He said both the countries, which share a long and disputed boundary, have displayed maturity and wisdom in managing issues and ensuring a peaceful border as there "is a growing intersection in our international presence."

Later, Prime Minister Modi talked of the bilateral relations between India and the United States and said, "India's global strategic partnership with the United States continues to deepen across the extraordinary breadth of our relationship."

Terming Singapore as a "Gateway of India to the east", Prime Minister Modi said both India and Singapore shared multilateral ties in the fields of religion, culture, art and commerce, language and literature.

On the same note, he described the relations between India and Singapore as 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

The Prime Minister called on nations to collectively address mutual insecurities and terror threats being faced by the countries across the world and called for a collaborative effort in countering the challenges, including terrorism, being faced by the global community.

Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Modi gifted Prime Minister Lee a replica of 6th-century Buddhagupta Stele.

A total of 14 Business to Business (B2B) and Business to Government (B2G) were signed during the event at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre in Singapore.

Prime Minister Modi landed in Singapore on Thursday, where he received a rousing welcome from the crowd.

Before Singapore, the Prime Minister visited Indonesia and Malaysia in a bid to enhance India's relations and engagements with the three countries, who are members of the ASEAN.

Prime Minister Modi will then hold a meeting with US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis.

On the third and last day of his Singapore visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met former Singaporean premier and Emeritus Senior Minister (ESM) Goh Chok Tong here on Saturday. The two leaders held talks on issues of mutual interest. ESM Goh served as the country's second prime minister from 1990 to 2004. Prior to this, he also served as the deputy prime minister of Singapore from 1985 to 1990. ESM Goh has also served in several cabinet berths under the first Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew and most notably as Senior Minister under incumbent Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's cabinet from 2004 to 2011. In 2011, Prime Minister Lee appointed Goh as Emeritus Senior Minister. He is also a senior advisor to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), which is the country's central bank. After the meeting, Prime Minister Modi will unveil the plaque marking the immersion site of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Prime Minister Modi will then hold a meeting with US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis. Mattis had served as the Marine Corps Reserve for over four decades before retiring in 2013. In January 2017, US President Donald Trump appointed Mattis as his defence secretary. Next, Prime Minister Modi will visit the National Orchid Garden, which is located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. It is the only tropical garden to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. #Singapore: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Singapore's former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong also present. pic.twitter.com/W8uUs6bezs — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2018 × #Singapore: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled plaque marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes at Clifford Pier. Singapore's former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong also present. pic.twitter.com/nrZdxMHDQW — ANI (@ANI) June 2, 2018 × The Prime Minister will pay a visit to Chuliya Mosque, one of the oldest mosques of Singapore located in Chinatown. It has been the country's national monument since 1974. Prime Minister Modi will visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, which is located nearby to the Chuliya Mosque and is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. He will next visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, also located in Chinatown. The temple gets its name from what the Buddhists regard as the left canine tooth of Lord Buddha, which was recovered from his funeral pyre in Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, according to visitsingapore.com. After this, the Prime Minister will visit the Indian Heritage Centre, situated in Little India. Lastly, Prime Minister Modi will visit by going to Changi Naval Base, where he will see the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Satpura and interact with officers and sailors of the Indian Navy and Royal Singapore Navy. After these engagements, he will emplane for New Delhi, concluding his five-day visit to Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. India and Singapore held a wide-range discussion on strategic and economic issues, technology and innovation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Southeast Asian nation, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday. "Discussions were held on strategic and economic issues and technology and innovation. Prime Minister Modi in his discussion to the leadership of Singapore conveyed our intention to play a balanced and constructive cooperative role in advancing peace and stability in the entire region," MEA Secretary (East) Preeti Saran said while briefing the media. While addressing a keynote at the Shangri-La Dialogue on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc as "architecture of peace and security in the region" and an "example and inspiration" for international cooperation. He noted that the Southeast Asian region has maritime and territorial, political, defence, and economic ties with India. Further, referring to the significance of Indo-Pacific region, Prime Minister Modi said, "India stands for a free, open, inclusive region which includes all nations in this geography as also others beyond who have a stake in it." The Prime Minister highlighted the deepening bilateral ties of India and China and said the world would be a better place if the two Asian giants work together in trust and confidence. He said both the countries, which share a long and disputed boundary, have displayed maturity and wisdom in managing issues and ensuring a peaceful border as there "is a growing intersection in our international presence." Later, Prime Minister Modi talked of the bilateral relations between India and the United States and said, "India's global strategic partnership with the United States continues to deepen across the extraordinary breadth of our relationship." Terming Singapore as a "Gateway of India to the east", Prime Minister Modi said both India and Singapore shared multilateral ties in the fields of religion, culture, art and commerce, language and literature. On the same note, he described the relations between India and Singapore as 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region). The Prime Minister called on nations to collectively address mutual insecurities and terror threats being faced by the countries across the world and called for a collaborative effort in countering the challenges, including terrorism, being faced by the global community. Earlier on Friday, Prime Minister Modi gifted Prime Minister Lee a replica of 6th-century Buddhagupta Stele. A total of 14 Business to Business (B2B) and Business to Government (B2G) were signed during the event at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre in Singapore. Prime Minister Modi landed in Singapore on Thursday, where he received a rousing welcome from the crowd. Before Singapore, the Prime Minister visited Indonesia and Malaysia in a bid to enhance India's relations and engagements with the three countries, who are members of the ASEAN.

PM Modi meets ex-Singaporean PM Goh Chok Tong

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged everyone to include yoga and traditional sports in their life and focus on fitness, saying "if we are fit, India is fit".

In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' radio broadcast, he said he was overwhelmed by the response to his 'fit India' campaign.

"For me, it's heartwarming that the captain of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has included me in his challenge... I too have accepted his challenge. I believe this is gainful and this kind of a challenge will inspire us to be fit alongwith others, as well," he said.

But at the same time he expressed concern over "fading away" of traditional sport such as 'kho khho', 'pitthu', 'lattu' and 'gulli-danda' "to the point of extinction".

"...It will be the loss of the spirit of childhood," he said and recalled a poem which talked of end of childhood and the games and the fun associated with it.

"It is crucial that today schools, neighbourhoods and youth congregations come forward and promote these games. Through crowd sourcing we can create a very large archive of our traditional games," Modi suggested. 
He said the videos of these games can be shot, outlining the way to play them along with the mandatory rules and regulations.

Animation films, he suggested, can also be made so that the young generations can see and play for themselves.

On the 'Fit India' campaign, the prime minister said, "The more we play, the more we inspire the country to come out and play."

He said people are sharing videos of 'fitness challenge' on social media and everybody is getting connected with the Fit India campaign.

"People from the film fraternity, from the world of sports, common citizens of the country, members of the armed forces, school teachers or even those toiling in fields are building up a crescendo ?Hum Fit toh India Fit'? ?If we are fit, India is fit'," he said.

He said games are not just games; they teach us values for life, such as, setting targets, building up determination, developing team spirit and fostering mutual co-operation.

"And then, there is no prescribed age limit for participating in them. From tiny tots to grandfather-Grandmother, when we all play these games together then the term ?generation gap' disappears," he said.

The prime minister also highlighted the need to have a sense of adventure, saying adventure gives birth to development. He referred to the all women team of Indian navy which circumnavigated the globe for more than 250 days on board the INSV Tarini.

He also complemented people, some women and a girl, who climbed the Mount Everest. He also appreciated a BSF team who cleaned up Mount Everest of garbage while returning.

Modi also had a word of praise for Cuttack's D Prakash Rao, a tea seller, who spends 50 per cent of his earnings to run a school.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing the nation in 44th edition of his monthly radio programme today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged everyone to include yoga and traditional sports in their life and focus on fitness, saying "if we are fit, India is fit". In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' radio broadcast, he said he was overwhelmed by the response to his 'fit India' campaign. "For me, it's heartwarming that the captain of the Indian cricket team Virat Kohli has included me in his challenge... I too have accepted his challenge. I believe this is gainful and this kind of a challenge will inspire us to be fit alongwith others, as well," he said. But at the same time he expressed concern over "fading away" of traditional sport such as 'kho khho', 'pitthu', 'lattu' and 'gulli-danda' "to the point of extinction". "...It will be the loss of the spirit of childhood," he said and recalled a poem which talked of end of childhood and the games and the fun associated with it. "It is crucial that today schools, neighbourhoods and youth congregations come forward and promote these games. Through crowd sourcing we can create a very large archive of our traditional games," Modi suggested. He said the videos of these games can be shot, outlining the way to play them along with the mandatory rules and regulations. Animation films, he suggested, can also be made so that the young generations can see and play for themselves. On the 'Fit India' campaign, the prime minister said, "The more we play, the more we inspire the country to come out and play." He said people are sharing videos of 'fitness challenge' on social media and everybody is getting connected with the Fit India campaign. "People from the film fraternity, from the world of sports, common citizens of the country, members of the armed forces, school teachers or even those toiling in fields are building up a crescendo ?Hum Fit toh India Fit'? ?If we are fit, India is fit'," he said. He said games are not just games; they teach us values for life, such as, setting targets, building up determination, developing team spirit and fostering mutual co-operation. "And then, there is no prescribed age limit for participating in them. From tiny tots to grandfather-Grandmother, when we all play these games together then the term ?generation gap' disappears," he said. The prime minister also highlighted the need to have a sense of adventure, saying adventure gives birth to development. He referred to the all women team of Indian navy which circumnavigated the globe for more than 250 days on board the INSV Tarini. He also complemented people, some women and a girl, who climbed the Mount Everest. He also appreciated a BSF team who cleaned up Mount Everest of garbage while returning. Modi also had a word of praise for Cuttack's D Prakash Rao, a tea seller, who spends 50 per cent of his earnings to run a school. (With inputs from PTI)

Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi urges citizens to include yoga and traditional sports in life

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated HD Kumaraswamy on taking oath as the Karnataka chief minister and extended the best wishes on his new assignment.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I congratulate Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/hd_kumaraswamy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hd_kumaraswamy</a> Ji and <a href="https://twitter.com/DrParameshwara?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrParameshwara</a> Ji on taking oath as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. My best wishes for their tenure ahead.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/999273840361517056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I congratulate Shri @hd_kumaraswamy Ji and @DrParameshwara Ji on taking oath as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. My best wishes for their tenure ahead," he tweeted.

Kumaraswamy was sworn in as the Karnataka chief minister at the head of a JD(S)-Congress coalition government.

The show of strength by a galaxy of national leaders and regional satraps at the ceremony is being seen as a strong signal to the BJP about the possibility of formation of a broad-based front to take on the NDA in the Lok Sabha polls next year.

The BJP boycotted the ceremony and observed a "Black Day". It held protests across Karnataka against the new coalition government, which it called "unholy".

Kumaraswamy was sworn in as the Karnataka chief minister at the head of a JD(S)-Congress coalition government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated HD Kumaraswamy on taking oath as the Karnataka chief minister and extended the best wishes on his new assignment. I congratulate Shri @hd_kumaraswamy Ji and @DrParameshwara Ji on taking oath as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. My best wishes for their tenure ahead. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 23, 2018 × "I congratulate Shri @hd_kumaraswamy Ji and @DrParameshwara Ji on taking oath as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka. My best wishes for their tenure ahead," he tweeted. Kumaraswamy was sworn in as the Karnataka chief minister at the head of a JD(S)-Congress coalition government. The show of strength by a galaxy of national leaders and regional satraps at the ceremony is being seen as a strong signal to the BJP about the possibility of formation of a broad-based front to take on the NDA in the Lok Sabha polls next year. The BJP boycotted the ceremony and observed a "Black Day". It held protests across Karnataka against the new coalition government, which it called "unholy".

PM Modi congratulates Kumaraswamy

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Friday said that Congress chief Rahul Gandhi would have to wait for "10 to 15 years" to become the country's Prime Minister.

He said that there was, however, nothing wrong in nurturing such an ambition.

"Rahul Gandhi has spoken about his Prime Ministerial ambitions. But I think he will have to wait for 10 to 15 years. There is nothing wrong with having an ambition to become Prime Minister. However, it is too early to express such an ambition," said Mr Athawale.

The Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment claimed that the National Democratic Alliance under PM Narendra Modi would once again come to power in 2019.

He added that the BJP would win Karnataka with a clear majority as communities like the Lingayats, OBCs etc were supporting the party.

"The Congress is projecting the BJP as an anti-Dalit party, but people are wise enough to understand what is right," he said.

 
Earlier in the day, Mr Athawale visited Bhima Koregaon and met the family members of Pooja Sakat, whose house was torched during the violence that occurred there on January 1.

Pooja, who was a witness to the violence, was found dead in a well nearby in April.

"Pooja's family claims she was either murdered or was forced to commit suicide. Nine people have been named in the FIR of which two have been arrested. I have asked police to arrest the rest soon," he said.

Ramdas Athawale said that there was, however, nothing wrong in nurturing such an ambition.

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Friday said that Congress chief Rahul Gandhi would have to wait for "10 to 15 years" to become the country's Prime Minister. He said that there was, however, nothing wrong in nurturing such an ambition. "Rahul Gandhi has spoken about his Prime Ministerial ambitions. But I think he will have to wait for 10 to 15 years. There is nothing wrong with having an ambition to become Prime Minister. However, it is too early to express such an ambition," said Mr Athawale. The Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment claimed that the National Democratic Alliance under PM Narendra Modi would once again come to power in 2019. He added that the BJP would win Karnataka with a clear majority as communities like the Lingayats, OBCs etc were supporting the party. "The Congress is projecting the BJP as an anti-Dalit party, but people are wise enough to understand what is right," he said. Earlier in the day, Mr Athawale visited Bhima Koregaon and met the family members of Pooja Sakat, whose house was torched during the violence that occurred there on January 1. Pooja, who was a witness to the violence, was found dead in a well nearby in April. "Pooja's family claims she was either murdered or was forced to commit suicide. Nine people have been named in the FIR of which two have been arrested. I have asked police to arrest the rest soon," he said.

Rahul Gandhi will have to wait 10-15 years to become PM: Ramdas Athawale

Pakistan Supreme Court today ordered Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and heads of all Pakistani airlines to appear for the next hearing of a case pertaining to fake degrees of pilots.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar asked Abbasi to appear as former CEO of an airline along with other heads of all Pakistani airlines.

"Isn't it a matter of clash of interests?" asked the chief justice when told that the prime minister is also the head of Airblue airlines. "Shahid Khaqan Abbasi will have to appear in the capacity of a chief executive officer and not a premier."

The chief justice, who was heading a three-member bench, said that he was issuing notices to heads of all Pakistani airlines as the matter has been pending for the last four months and reports in this regard have not been submitted as yet.&nbsp

Those who have been summoned include the heads of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Airblue Limited, Serene Air and Shaheen Air International.

The chief executive officers of the airlines were directed to appear in person at the Supreme Court of Pakistan, Karachi Registry on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Civil Aviation Authority Director Nasir Ali Shah told the court that degrees of 1,972 people working with airlines were verified while 24 pilots were found to be holding fake degrees.

During the hearing, Civil Aviation Authority Director Nasir Ali Shah told the court that the authority has received the reports on pilots' degrees from Shaheen International Airline and Serene Air today in Karachi, while the report of Airblue was received yesterday.&nbsp

Pakistan PM Abbasi has been asked to appear as a former CEO of an airline along with other heads of all Pakistani airlines

Pakistan Supreme Court today ordered Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and heads of all Pakistani airlines to appear for the next hearing of a case pertaining to fake degrees of pilots. Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar asked Abbasi to appear as former CEO of an airline along with other heads of all Pakistani airlines. "Isn't it a matter of clash of interests?" asked the chief justice when told that the prime minister is also the head of Airblue airlines. "Shahid Khaqan Abbasi will have to appear in the capacity of a chief executive officer and not a premier." The chief justice, who was heading a three-member bench, said that he was issuing notices to heads of all Pakistani airlines as the matter has been pending for the last four months and reports in this regard have not been submitted as yet. Those who have been summoned include the heads of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Airblue Limited, Serene Air and Shaheen Air International. The chief executive officers of the airlines were directed to appear in person at the Supreme Court of Pakistan, Karachi Registry on Saturday. Meanwhile, Civil Aviation Authority Director Nasir Ali Shah told the court that degrees of 1,972 people working with airlines were verified while 24 pilots were found to be holding fake degrees. During the hearing, Civil Aviation Authority Director Nasir Ali Shah told the court that the authority has received the reports on pilots' degrees from Shaheen International Airline and Serene Air today in Karachi, while the report of Airblue was received yesterday.

Pakistan Supreme Court summons PM in case of pilots' fake degrees

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is undertaking his third round of campaigning in poll-bound Karnataka on Thursday.

The BJP has also lined up a galaxy of leaders, including Union home minister Rajnath Singh, to address public meetings in the next few days, BJP sources said.&nbsp;

On the second day of Karnataka poll campaign, PM Modi is on visit of Ballari and Bengaluru. India's prime minister stepped into the poll campaign on May 1 in a heated last leg burst addressing rallies in Mysuru, Udupi and Belagavi.&nbsp;PM Modi had addressed the farmers in Karnataka through the Namo App on Wednesday which was live-streamed across the poll-bound state.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-siddaramaiahs-pride-of-kannadigas-plank-a-master-ploy-or-flawed-parochial-approach-134369">Opinion — Siddaramaiah's 'pride of Kannadigas' plank a master ploy or 'flawed' parochial approach?</a>

PM Modi's&nbsp;speech at Ballari:&nbsp;

16:09 PM: PM Modi attacks Congress over illegal mining in Karnataka

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Look at the rising illegal mining in the state. The Congress government here couldn't even frame a strong mining policy. Karnataka has a 'Sidda-Rupaiah Sarkar'. It has created a debt-burden for the state."

16:06 PM:&nbsp;Congress government in Karnataka is in 'sleep mode.' They did not spend the funds Centre allocated for development of the state, said PM.

16:00 PM: We wanted OBC Commission to get constitutional status but the Congress did not let it happen, the Prime Minister added.

16:00 PM: Congress indulges in vote-bank politics. They divide people on the grounds of caste. They are insensitive towards the tribal communities and the OBCs said PM.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
When we had got the opportunity to serve people of Karnataka earlier, so many development initiatives were undertaken. But sadly, Congress couldn't even ensure proper water supply despite the state being rich in water resources: PM Narendra Modi in Ballari <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/CzFlF6nfc8">pic.twitter.com/CzFlF6nfc8</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/991979519560114176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Look at the rising illegal mining in state. Congress govt here couldn't even frame a strong mining policy. Karnataka has a 'Sidda-Rupaiah Sarkar'. It has created a debt-burden for the state: PM Modi in Ballari <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/bGi0paXYrx">pic.twitter.com/bGi0paXYrx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/991977884419018753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Congress has ruined the rich history & legacy of Ballari. By defaming Ballari, they have disrespected the people of this district. Your enthusiasm & zeal shows that the Congress is going to lose Karnataka: PM Narendra Modi in Ballari <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarnatakaElections2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarnatakaElections2018</a> <a href="https://t.co/crhyK3KvlY">pic.twitter.com/crhyK3KvlY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/991976738233159681?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

15:16 PM:&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Congress leader Sonia Gandhi had promised Rs 3,000 crore packages for development of Ballari when she fought from here but once the Congress came to power, she forgot about it.&nbsp;

15:10&nbsp;PM: Congress has ruined the rich history and legacy of Ballari. By defaming Ballari, they have disrespected the people of this district, he said.

15:06 PM: "Looking at the number of people who have arrived at this rally in Ballari I can already see that Congress is going to lose its last bastion soon,"&nbsp;Modi said.

<article data-scribe="component:card" dir="ltr">&nbsp;</article>

Prime minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Rahul Gandhi are in Karnataka on Thursday as a part of their election campaigns in the state ahead of the May 12 assembly election.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is undertaking his third round of campaigning in poll-bound Karnataka on Thursday. The BJP has also lined up a galaxy of leaders, including Union home minister Rajnath Singh, to address public meetings in the next few days, BJP sources said. On the second day of Karnataka poll campaign, PM Modi is on visit of Ballari and Bengaluru. India's prime minister stepped into the poll campaign on May 1 in a heated last leg burst addressing rallies in Mysuru, Udupi and Belagavi. PM Modi had addressed the farmers in Karnataka through the Namo App on Wednesday which was live-streamed across the poll-bound state. Also read: Opinion — Siddaramaiah's 'pride of Kannadigas' plank a master ploy or 'flawed' parochial approach? PM Modi's speech at Ballari: 16:09 PM: PM Modi attacks Congress over illegal mining in Karnataka Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Look at the rising illegal mining in the state. The Congress government here couldn't even frame a strong mining policy. Karnataka has a 'Sidda-Rupaiah Sarkar'. It has created a debt-burden for the state." 16:06 PM: Congress government in Karnataka is in 'sleep mode.' They did not spend the funds Centre allocated for development of the state, said PM. 16:00 PM: We wanted OBC Commission to get constitutional status but the Congress did not let it happen, the Prime Minister added. 16:00 PM: Congress indulges in vote-bank politics. They divide people on the grounds of caste. They are insensitive towards the tribal communities and the OBCs said PM. When we had got the opportunity to serve people of Karnataka earlier, so many development initiatives were undertaken. But sadly, Congress couldn't even ensure proper water supply despite the state being rich in water resources: PM Narendra Modi in Ballari #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/CzFlF6nfc8 — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2018 × Look at the rising illegal mining in state. Congress govt here couldn't even frame a strong mining policy. Karnataka has a 'Sidda-Rupaiah Sarkar'. It has created a debt-burden for the state: PM Modi in Ballari #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/bGi0paXYrx — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2018 × Congress has ruined the rich history & legacy of Ballari. By defaming Ballari, they have disrespected the people of this district. Your enthusiasm & zeal shows that the Congress is going to lose Karnataka: PM Narendra Modi in Ballari #KarnatakaElections2018 pic.twitter.com/crhyK3KvlY — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2018 × 15:16 PM: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Congress leader Sonia Gandhi had promised Rs 3,000 crore packages for development of Ballari when she fought from here but once the Congress came to power, she forgot about it. 15:10 PM: Congress has ruined the rich history and legacy of Ballari. By defaming Ballari, they have disrespected the people of this district, he said. 15:06 PM: "Looking at the number of people who have arrived at this rally in Ballari I can already see that Congress is going to lose its last bastion soon," Modi said.

Karnataka elections 2018: 'Sidda-rupaiya' government expert at corruption, says Modi

The WHO on Wednesday lauded the BJP-led NDA government’s Ujjwala Yojana to provide free LPG connections to rural households as an effort to reduce household pollution by helping families switch to cleaner energy sources.&nbsp;

PM’s initiative to provide a shield to women and children from smoke has been much admired in the new WHO pollution report.

Importantly, the South-East Asia region of the WHO, which comprises 11 countries, including India is the second largest contributor to the global mortality due to household and ambient air pollution.

About Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)&nbsp;

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) or the Ujjwala Scheme was launched by PM Modi on May 1, 2016, in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh. The scheme aims to protect women and children from the smoke emitted from households using firewood for cooking purposes. Under the scheme, families below the poverty line are to be provided with LPG connections with a support of Rs. 1,600 per connection in the next three years.

Ensuring women’s empowerment, especially in rural India, the connections will be issued in the name of women of the households. Rs 8000 crore has been allocated towards the implementation of the scheme. Identification of the BPL families will be done through Socio-Economic Caste Census Data.&nbsp;

PM’s initiative to provide a shield to women and children from smoke has been much admired in the new WHO pollution report.

The WHO on Wednesday lauded the BJP-led NDA government’s Ujjwala Yojana to provide free LPG connections to rural households as an effort to reduce household pollution by helping families switch to cleaner energy sources. PM’s initiative to provide a shield to women and children from smoke has been much admired in the new WHO pollution report. Importantly, the South-East Asia region of the WHO, which comprises 11 countries, including India is the second largest contributor to the global mortality due to household and ambient air pollution. About Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) or the Ujjwala Scheme was launched by PM Modi on May 1, 2016, in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh. The scheme aims to protect women and children from the smoke emitted from households using firewood for cooking purposes. Under the scheme, families below the poverty line are to be provided with LPG connections with a support of Rs. 1,600 per connection in the next three years. Ensuring women’s empowerment, especially in rural India, the connections will be issued in the name of women of the households. Rs 8000 crore has been allocated towards the implementation of the scheme. Identification of the BPL families will be done through Socio-Economic Caste Census Data.

WHO praises India's Ujjwala Yojana: All about the PM's initiative

Congress without power is like fish out of water: PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held the Congress government in Karnataka responsible for "political violence that led to the death of several BJP cadres" in the state.

Prime Minister Modi assailed Congress party in his Belagavi speech.&nbsp;

He said that the Congress party, when out of power, is like a fish without water.&nbsp;

Recalling the period of Emergency, Modi said that Congress was the first to assault the Constitution, just to ensure that they remain in power.&nbsp;

Siddaramaiah:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/siddaramaiah-janata-parivar-veteran-and-congresss-best-bet-in-karnataka-polls-133957">Janata Parivar veteran and Congress's best bet in Karnataka polls</a>

B S Yeddyurappa:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/b-s-yeddyurappa-karnatakas-lingayat-strongman-bjp-is-pinning-its-hope-on-133936">Karnataka's Lingayat strongman BJP is pinning its hope on</a>

"Congress is jealous because it was our government that got the majority and a person for humble background became the prime minister," Modi said. And that is why "they are spreading lies, dividing people on the grounds of caste," he added. &nbsp;

"It is extremely shameful that the Congress government allowed violence in the state and several BJP workers were murdered. The Congress must provide an answer to the rising crime," Modi told a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rally.

"I urge people of Karnataka to fulfil Mahatma Gandhi Ji's wish of disbanding the Congress party. Now, its Karnataka's turn and you should grab this opportunity," Modi said in his speech.&nbsp;

Speaking in Belagavi, Modi said that many take pride in calling themselves political pundits and they attempt to analyze elections every time.&nbsp;

"Earlier too attempts were made to analyse elections and these people said that it will be a hung House in 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Again, similar lies were repeated. But mark my words, every time you hear the poll pundits rambling about a hung house it means that the Congress is up for a massive defeat. This is just a way to defend Congress," Modi said.&nbsp;

PM Modi has ended his address with a mix of Kannada and Marathi. Remember, Belagavi district borders Maharashtra and has a significant Marathi language speaking population.

The BJP is contesting all 224 Assembly seats to return to power.&nbsp;

Recalling the period of Emergency, Modi said that Congress was the first to assault the Constitution, just to ensure that they remain in power.

Congress without power is like fish out of water: PM Narendra Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held the Congress government in Karnataka responsible for "political violence that led to the death of several BJP cadres" in the state. Prime Minister Modi assailed Congress party in his Belagavi speech. He said that the Congress party, when out of power, is like a fish without water. Recalling the period of Emergency, Modi said that Congress was the first to assault the Constitution, just to ensure that they remain in power. Siddaramaiah: Janata Parivar veteran and Congress's best bet in Karnataka polls B S Yeddyurappa: Karnataka's Lingayat strongman BJP is pinning its hope on "Congress is jealous because it was our government that got the majority and a person for humble background became the prime minister," Modi said. And that is why "they are spreading lies, dividing people on the grounds of caste," he added. "It is extremely shameful that the Congress government allowed violence in the state and several BJP workers were murdered. The Congress must provide an answer to the rising crime," Modi told a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rally. "I urge people of Karnataka to fulfil Mahatma Gandhi Ji's wish of disbanding the Congress party. Now, its Karnataka's turn and you should grab this opportunity," Modi said in his speech. Speaking in Belagavi, Modi said that many take pride in calling themselves political pundits and they attempt to analyze elections every time. "Earlier too attempts were made to analyse elections and these people said that it will be a hung House in 2014 Lok Sabha polls. Again, similar lies were repeated. But mark my words, every time you hear the poll pundits rambling about a hung house it means that the Congress is up for a massive defeat. This is just a way to defend Congress," Modi said. PM Modi has ended his address with a mix of Kannada and Marathi. Remember, Belagavi district borders Maharashtra and has a significant Marathi language speaking population. The BJP is contesting all 224 Assembly seats to return to power.

Congress without power is like fish out of water: PM Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his first leg of four-day-long UK visit, is all set to address UK's Indian community from London's Central Hall Westminster. Modi's address will be globally telecast while in attendance there will be around 1500 people from the diaspora at the invite-only event.

The invitees for the 'Bharat Ki Baat, Sabke Saath', event were selected by lottery from the registrations received on the website created for the event.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
London: People from Indian diaspora gather at Parliament Square to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi. <a href="https://t.co/az3zYdfagC">pic.twitter.com/az3zYdfagC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/986575466172739584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Prime Minister last such address was in November 2015 at Wembley stadium that saw around 30,000 people from the community in attendance.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister paid floral tributes at the bust of Basaveshwara (12th-century Lingayat philosopher) at Albert Embankment Gardens a short while ago.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
London: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes at the bust of Basaveshwara (12th-century Lingayat philosopher) at Albert Embankment Gardens. <a href="https://t.co/Z9SJLRsuE7">pic.twitter.com/Z9SJLRsuE7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/986548810691350528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Prime Minister Modi's first day in the UK kicked off with a quick meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May. Both the leaders discussed a host of issues over breakfast.&nbsp;

"It is a matter of happiness for me that I will get to interact with people here on the birth anniversary of Lord Basaveshwara," PM Modi said during his meeting with the British PM Theresa May.

"I hope we can work together for the people of both India and UK," Theresa May told the PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the Science Museum in London where he was welcomed by Prince Charles.&nbsp;

Prince Charles welcomed and greeted PM Modi and explored a science and innovation exhibition set up at the museum.

The event, hosted by Prince Charles, will also include the launch of a new Ayurvedic Centre of Excellence.

Modi interacted with&nbsp;Indian-origin and other scientists and innovators based in the UK.&nbsp;

Modi's first leg of UK visit is packed with meetings and engagements. Later today, the PM will meet Queen Elizabeth at the Buckingham Palace and will also deliver a live address. He will attend the CEO's summit along with numerous tours planned for the rest of the day.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister paid floral tributes at the bust of Basaveshwara (12th-century Lingayat philosopher) at Albert Embankment Gardens a short while ago

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his first leg of four-day-long UK visit, is all set to address UK's Indian community from London's Central Hall Westminster. Modi's address will be globally telecast while in attendance there will be around 1500 people from the diaspora at the invite-only event. The invitees for the 'Bharat Ki Baat, Sabke Saath', event were selected by lottery from the registrations received on the website created for the event. London: People from Indian diaspora gather at Parliament Square to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi. pic.twitter.com/az3zYdfagC — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2018 × Prime Minister last such address was in November 2015 at Wembley stadium that saw around 30,000 people from the community in attendance. The Prime Minister paid floral tributes at the bust of Basaveshwara (12th-century Lingayat philosopher) at Albert Embankment Gardens a short while ago. London: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes at the bust of Basaveshwara (12th-century Lingayat philosopher) at Albert Embankment Gardens. pic.twitter.com/Z9SJLRsuE7 — ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2018 × Prime Minister Modi's first day in the UK kicked off with a quick meeting with British Prime Minister Theresa May. Both the leaders discussed a host of issues over breakfast. "It is a matter of happiness for me that I will get to interact with people here on the birth anniversary of Lord Basaveshwara," PM Modi said during his meeting with the British PM Theresa May. "I hope we can work together for the people of both India and UK," Theresa May told the PM Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the Science Museum in London where he was welcomed by Prince Charles. Prince Charles welcomed and greeted PM Modi and explored a science and innovation exhibition set up at the museum. The event, hosted by Prince Charles, will also include the launch of a new Ayurvedic Centre of Excellence. Modi interacted with Indian-origin and other scientists and innovators based in the UK. Modi's first leg of UK visit is packed with meetings and engagements. Later today, the PM will meet Queen Elizabeth at the Buckingham Palace and will also deliver a live address. He will attend the CEO's summit along with numerous tours planned for the rest of the day.

Modi in UK: PM to address Indian diaspora at Westminster Square

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi an "iron man" for accelerating the pace of development in the country.

The "Iron Man" sobriquet is used to describe the first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for his uncompromising commitment to unify the country post-Independence.

Addressing a gathering of monks in Visnagar town in Mehsana district, Adityanath also equated Modi's leadership with that of Mahatma Gandhi and Patel.

"Immediately after Independence, when Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had visited Saurashtra, he pledged to renovate the Somnath Temple. This pledge could have been taken for other parts of the country as well but it was the effect of Gujarat's soil... It's a holy land that gave leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to the country in difficult times.

"And today, the country is similarly surging rapidly ahead under the leadership of iron man Narendra Modiji to reach the top of the world, something which we had never dreamt before," he said.&nbsp

Adityanath, the chief abbot of Gorakhnath Mutt in Uttar Pradesh, was in Visnagar to attend a religious programme of the Nath sect. He previously visited the town in December 2016 following the death of Mahant Gulabnath.

Adityanath's Gujarat counterpart Vijay Rupani said the Somnath Temple would not have been vandalised by foreign invaders had the country not been divided along caste lines.

He said casteism and untouchability kept India divided.

"There is a need to launch a fight against this. I appeal to you seers to take a pledge to save the religion... Modiji is working on to take the country to newer heights," he said.&nbsp

Adityanath invited the seers present there to attend the 2019 Kumbh Mela, to be held in Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp

He said Modi's "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikaas" slogan is a spinoff of the Sanatan Dharma philosophy, which also calls for taking everybody along.

 
"It is the first time that we will take a pledge and frame a policy that an Indian, whatever community he belongs to, will get shelter. And today, every poor is getting a roof on his head, getting food, electricity etc. Development has reached remote corners," the UP chief minister said.

 
He hailed Modi for being instrumental in getting UNESCO recognition for Yoga and Kumbh festival.&nbsp 
&nbsp

The "Iron Man" sobriquet is used to describe the first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for his uncompromising commitment to unify the country post-Independence.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi an "iron man" for accelerating the pace of development in the country. The "Iron Man" sobriquet is used to describe the first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for his uncompromising commitment to unify the country post-Independence. Addressing a gathering of monks in Visnagar town in Mehsana district, Adityanath also equated Modi's leadership with that of Mahatma Gandhi and Patel. "Immediately after Independence, when Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had visited Saurashtra, he pledged to renovate the Somnath Temple. This pledge could have been taken for other parts of the country as well but it was the effect of Gujarat's soil... It's a holy land that gave leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel to the country in difficult times. "And today, the country is similarly surging rapidly ahead under the leadership of iron man Narendra Modiji to reach the top of the world, something which we had never dreamt before," he said. Adityanath, the chief abbot of Gorakhnath Mutt in Uttar Pradesh, was in Visnagar to attend a religious programme of the Nath sect. He previously visited the town in December 2016 following the death of Mahant Gulabnath. Adityanath's Gujarat counterpart Vijay Rupani said the Somnath Temple would not have been vandalised by foreign invaders had the country not been divided along caste lines. He said casteism and untouchability kept India divided. "There is a need to launch a fight against this. I appeal to you seers to take a pledge to save the religion... Modiji is working on to take the country to newer heights," he said. Adityanath invited the seers present there to attend the 2019 Kumbh Mela, to be held in Uttar Pradesh. He said Modi's "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikaas" slogan is a spinoff of the Sanatan Dharma philosophy, which also calls for taking everybody along. "It is the first time that we will take a pledge and frame a policy that an Indian, whatever community he belongs to, will get shelter. And today, every poor is getting a roof on his head, getting food, electricity etc. Development has reached remote corners," the UP chief minister said. He hailed Modi for being instrumental in getting UNESCO recognition for Yoga and Kumbh festival.

Yogi calls PM 'iron man' for fast-tracking development

&nbspBreaking his silence on his frisking at a US airport last month, Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Friday said that he was neither ashamed at the process, nor did it reduced his status as the country's prime minister.

Abbasi revealed that he had travelled to the US for the last 40 years and has gone through routine security checks multiple times during his visits, Express Tribune reported.

"I've even seen former US president Bill Clinton go through such security checks. When one visits another country, it is best to respect their laws and protocol. I don't think it reduces my respect, I think it increases it. Whether I am the Prime Minister or not, it should not be deemed disrespectful if I went through their security check," Abbasi said.

The Pakistan Prime Minister explained that he could have requested for VIP protocol by writing a letter to the US embassy and asked the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to accompany him at the airport and "they would have concealed me and taken me through secret pathways at the airport", but he opted not to.

"The law is the same for everyone and I think it's more respectful to be in accordance with the law," Abbasi further said.

Last month, there were reports that Abbasi was frisked at the John F. Kennedy airport in New York during the security procedure.

A video of the incident showed Prime Minister Abbasi, who reportedly was on a private visit to meet his ailing sister in the US, adjusting his t-shirt after getting out of security checks with his jacket and a trolley bag

The deputy spokesperson of the US Embassy in India, Alexander McLaren said last week that Abbasi was frisked at the US airport as he was on a private visit.

The private visit by Abbasi comes at a time when Pakistan-US relations have been strained lately, especially since US President Donald Trump wrote on Twitter in January that Pakistan was not doing much to combat terrorism on their own soil.

"The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!", Trump tweeted.

Abbasi revealed that he had travelled to the US for the last 40 years and has gone through routine security checks multiple times during his visits

&nbspBreaking his silence on his frisking at a US airport last month, Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Friday said that he was neither ashamed at the process, nor did it reduced his status as the country's prime minister. Abbasi revealed that he had travelled to the US for the last 40 years and has gone through routine security checks multiple times during his visits, Express Tribune reported. "I've even seen former US president Bill Clinton go through such security checks. When one visits another country, it is best to respect their laws and protocol. I don't think it reduces my respect, I think it increases it. Whether I am the Prime Minister or not, it should not be deemed disrespectful if I went through their security check," Abbasi said. The Pakistan Prime Minister explained that he could have requested for VIP protocol by writing a letter to the US embassy and asked the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to accompany him at the airport and "they would have concealed me and taken me through secret pathways at the airport", but he opted not to. "The law is the same for everyone and I think it's more respectful to be in accordance with the law," Abbasi further said. Last month, there were reports that Abbasi was frisked at the John F. Kennedy airport in New York during the security procedure. A video of the incident showed Prime Minister Abbasi, who reportedly was on a private visit to meet his ailing sister in the US, adjusting his t-shirt after getting out of security checks with his jacket and a trolley bag The deputy spokesperson of the US Embassy in India, Alexander McLaren said last week that Abbasi was frisked at the US airport as he was on a private visit. The private visit by Abbasi comes at a time when Pakistan-US relations have been strained lately, especially since US President Donald Trump wrote on Twitter in January that Pakistan was not doing much to combat terrorism on their own soil. "The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!", Trump tweeted.

US airport security check did not reduce my status as PM: Abbasi

Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe faces a no-confidence motion on Wednesday that could go down to the wire and lead to political instability in the island nation, even if the government manages to scrape a win.

Wickremesinghe leads a national unity government in alliance with President Maithripala Sirisena's party, which has said it would vote against the prime minister, blaming him for failing to prevent an alleged scam in the bond market.

The opposition, which swept local elections last month, aims to drive a deeper wedge within the ruling coalition with the no-confidence motion and bring forward a national election due in 2020.

"There is a common consensus in the party to vote in favour of the no-confidence motion," said Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, a minister of Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP).

"Clearly the SLFP is of the view that the prime minister should step down."

Wickremesinghe has faced criticism for failing to deliver on economic growth which slumped to 3.1 per cent last year, its worst pace since a recession in 2001. The rupee currency is hovering at a record low.

The government is also under pressure as it tries to manage China's expanding infrastructure push in Sri Lanka, located near key shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean, but which has raised fears that it could push the tiny country deep into debt.

Wickremesinghe's United National Party has 107 members in the 225-member parliament and, until now, the support of 42 members of the SLFP, which gave it a comfortable majority.

But if the SLFP votes against the government, Wickremesinghe could lose his majority. He would then need the backing of minority parties in the opposition to stay in office.

Eran Wickramaratne, the junior finance minister, said the UNP had asked for a quick vote "to end any uncertainty people will have in their minds" and hoped for a stronger government to emerge afterwards.&nbsp;

Political instability is weighing on the economy, he said.

"You are not going to get 6-percent-plus kind of growth because of the political issues. We will move into 4-percent-plus in 2018," he told.

The yields on Sri Lanka’s benchmark bonds have risen 83 basis points since early this year, and the central bank chief has also warned of risks to economic growth from political instability.

Shailesh Kumar, Asian director at consultancy Eurasia group, foresaw limited cooperation between the UNP and the SLFP after the no-confidence motion, even if the prime minister survived.

"This means there will be limited appetite for economic legislation and instead the two will likely indulge in populism to shore up their positions ahead of the 2020 elections," he told.

Foreign direct investments (FDI) doubled to $1.6 billion last year, but more than 40 per cent of that was from China, for two key projects that have dragged on for more than a year.

A trade pact signed with Singapore in January and expected free trade agreements with China and India later this year are seen boosting Sri Lanka's export revenue through new FDIs. But officials of the Board of Investment say investors have been waiting for clarity on the political front.

Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe faces a no-confidence motion on Wednesday

Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe faces a no-confidence motion on Wednesday that could go down to the wire and lead to political instability in the island nation, even if the government manages to scrape a win. Wickremesinghe leads a national unity government in alliance with President Maithripala Sirisena's party, which has said it would vote against the prime minister, blaming him for failing to prevent an alleged scam in the bond market. The opposition, which swept local elections last month, aims to drive a deeper wedge within the ruling coalition with the no-confidence motion and bring forward a national election due in 2020. "There is a common consensus in the party to vote in favour of the no-confidence motion," said Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, a minister of Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). "Clearly the SLFP is of the view that the prime minister should step down." Wickremesinghe has faced criticism for failing to deliver on economic growth which slumped to 3.1 per cent last year, its worst pace since a recession in 2001. The rupee currency is hovering at a record low. The government is also under pressure as it tries to manage China's expanding infrastructure push in Sri Lanka, located near key shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean, but which has raised fears that it could push the tiny country deep into debt. Wickremesinghe's United National Party has 107 members in the 225-member parliament and, until now, the support of 42 members of the SLFP, which gave it a comfortable majority. But if the SLFP votes against the government, Wickremesinghe could lose his majority. He would then need the backing of minority parties in the opposition to stay in office. Eran Wickramaratne, the junior finance minister, said the UNP had asked for a quick vote "to end any uncertainty people will have in their minds" and hoped for a stronger government to emerge afterwards. Political instability is weighing on the economy, he said. "You are not going to get 6-percent-plus kind of growth because of the political issues. We will move into 4-percent-plus in 2018," he told. The yields on Sri Lanka’s benchmark bonds have risen 83 basis points since early this year, and the central bank chief has also warned of risks to economic growth from political instability. Shailesh Kumar, Asian director at consultancy Eurasia group, foresaw limited cooperation between the UNP and the SLFP after the no-confidence motion, even if the prime minister survived. "This means there will be limited appetite for economic legislation and instead the two will likely indulge in populism to shore up their positions ahead of the 2020 elections," he told. Foreign direct investments (FDI) doubled to $1.6 billion last year, but more than 40 per cent of that was from China, for two key projects that have dragged on for more than a year. A trade pact signed with Singapore in January and expected free trade agreements with China and India later this year are seen boosting Sri Lanka's export revenue through new FDIs. But officials of the Board of Investment say investors have been waiting for clarity on the political front.

Sri Lanka's PM faces tight confidence vote as key ally plans to defect

After Prime Minister (PM) Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was frisked at the United States airport during his recent visit to the country, a spokesperson from the US Embassy in New Delhi explained the reason behind the 'embarrassing' incident.

According to reports, the spokesperson said that any head of state traveling privately without a diplomatic passport would have to go through security checks, as they are traveling as a private citizen. However, an official visit would have a different case.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was abased down to any regular person at the John F. Kennedy airport in New York, as viral videos on Youtube show Abbasi being frisked during the security procedure.

Ditching official customs as a visiting dignitary, that too as a Prime Minister of a nuclear-armed nation, Abbasi, who reportedly was on a private visit to meet his ailing sister in the US, can be seen in the video adjusting his t-shirt after getting out of security checks with his jacket and a trolley bag.

Abbasi, however, has a history of making private trips to foreign nations, as according to Geo News, the PM was previously spotted travelling alone at a train station during his visit to Britain.

Abbasi was reportedly on a private visit to the US for the purpose of meeting his ailing sister, as well as, Vice President Mike Pence.

As per reports, the PM was traveling on his personal passport by official sources.

Abbasi was reportedly on a private visit to the US for the purpose of meeting his ailing sister, as well as, Vice President Mike Pence

After Prime Minister (PM) Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was frisked at the United States airport during his recent visit to the country, a spokesperson from the US Embassy in New Delhi explained the reason behind the 'embarrassing' incident. According to reports, the spokesperson said that any head of state traveling privately without a diplomatic passport would have to go through security checks, as they are traveling as a private citizen. However, an official visit would have a different case. Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi was abased down to any regular person at the John F. Kennedy airport in New York, as viral videos on Youtube show Abbasi being frisked during the security procedure. Ditching official customs as a visiting dignitary, that too as a Prime Minister of a nuclear-armed nation, Abbasi, who reportedly was on a private visit to meet his ailing sister in the US, can be seen in the video adjusting his t-shirt after getting out of security checks with his jacket and a trolley bag. Abbasi, however, has a history of making private trips to foreign nations, as according to Geo News, the PM was previously spotted travelling alone at a train station during his visit to Britain. Abbasi was reportedly on a private visit to the US for the purpose of meeting his ailing sister, as well as, Vice President Mike Pence. As per reports, the PM was traveling on his personal passport by official sources.

Why Pakistan PM Abbasi was frisked at the US airport

Nepal Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, next month will address the nation from the Himalayan District of Nepal, Mugu which borders China.

Prime Minister Oli, who will be visiting Mugu to inaugurate the Karnali Province's Tourism Year 2018-19 starting on April 14.

This is the first time that a Nepali Prime Minister will be addressing the nation out of the Parliament, Official Residence and Office.

"Prime Minister Oli will be addressing the nation on the very first day of New Year from Rara Lake," The secretariat of the Prime Minister stated in a release late on Wednesday.

Rara, which is the biggest lake in Nepal, lies on the Mugu District falling on the Karnali Province, the least developed province amongst the seven provinces of the new federal system adopted by the country.

The strategically important district of Nepal bordering China has the nearest Chinese market, Hyazimang and the nearest crossing point for Tibet to China, situated at an elevation of 6,495 metres.

"The decision of the Prime Minister to address the nation from the least developed district of the nation will have a very positive impact on the people of the district as it is one of the most backward regions of the country," Karuna Devkota, a postgraduate student in capital Kathmandu said.

Nepal, who have agreed to establish the seven-border crossing along the border with China in 2015, came at a time when the protests by Madhesis in the southern plains, regarding the demand to be recognised in the newly-formed Nepali constitution, led to the blocking of basic supplies from India.

This is the first time that a Nepali Prime Minister will be addressing the nation out of the Parliament, Official Residence and Office.

Nepal Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli, next month will address the nation from the Himalayan District of Nepal, Mugu which borders China. Prime Minister Oli, who will be visiting Mugu to inaugurate the Karnali Province's Tourism Year 2018-19 starting on April 14. This is the first time that a Nepali Prime Minister will be addressing the nation out of the Parliament, Official Residence and Office. "Prime Minister Oli will be addressing the nation on the very first day of New Year from Rara Lake," The secretariat of the Prime Minister stated in a release late on Wednesday. Rara, which is the biggest lake in Nepal, lies on the Mugu District falling on the Karnali Province, the least developed province amongst the seven provinces of the new federal system adopted by the country. The strategically important district of Nepal bordering China has the nearest Chinese market, Hyazimang and the nearest crossing point for Tibet to China, situated at an elevation of 6,495 metres. "The decision of the Prime Minister to address the nation from the least developed district of the nation will have a very positive impact on the people of the district as it is one of the most backward regions of the country," Karuna Devkota, a postgraduate student in capital Kathmandu said. Nepal, who have agreed to establish the seven-border crossing along the border with China in 2015, came at a time when the protests by Madhesis in the southern plains, regarding the demand to be recognised in the newly-formed Nepali constitution, led to the blocking of basic supplies from India.

Nepal PM Oli to address nation from district bordering China

In an ongoing corruption case, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be questioned, the police confirmed on Sunday. Netanyahu's wife and son will also be a part of the investigation along with the former chairman of Israel's largest telecom company and his wife.

Netanyahu figures at the centre of a major bribery case along with four other accused. Dubbed as "case 4000", &nbsp;the matter involves Bezeq telecom company's former chairman Shaul Elovitch. Elovitch is accused&nbsp;of receiving regulatory and financial benefits in return for positive coverage for Netanyahu in a news site.

The Prime Minister will be questioned at the prime minister's official residence in Jerusalem. Other accused will be investigated in Tel Aviv.

Netanyahu and his wife will be questioned for the second time in relation to the "case 4000."

The Prime Minister and his associate are reported to have been entangled in at least four corruption investigations over the past months.

Netanyahu figures at the centre of a major bribery case along with four other accused

In an ongoing corruption case, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be questioned, the police confirmed on Sunday. Netanyahu's wife and son will also be a part of the investigation along with the former chairman of Israel's largest telecom company and his wife. Netanyahu figures at the centre of a major bribery case along with four other accused. Dubbed as "case 4000", the matter involves Bezeq telecom company's former chairman Shaul Elovitch. Elovitch is accused of receiving regulatory and financial benefits in return for positive coverage for Netanyahu in a news site. The Prime Minister will be questioned at the prime minister's official residence in Jerusalem. Other accused will be investigated in Tel Aviv. Netanyahu and his wife will be questioned for the second time in relation to the "case 4000." The Prime Minister and his associate are reported to have been entangled in at least four corruption investigations over the past months.

Israel PM Netanyahu, family to be questioned under 'case 4000'

Records pertaining to the Prime Minister's chartered flights for visits abroad cannot be disclosed under the RTI Act due to security concerns as per instructions from the PMO, the national carrier has said in response to an application filed by an activist under the transparency law.

In his RTI application dated February 2, 2018, Commodore (Retd) Lokesh Batra had sought to know from Air India the dates of invoices raised for chartered flights provided by it for foreign visits of the Prime Minister since November 2016, and the dates of forwarding each of these bills to the Civil Aviation Ministry and the External Affairs Ministry.

According to Batra, he got a response from the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) who said he cannot furnish information sought by him, and also sent him an e-mail communication from the PMO to Air India on the issue.

In that email, sent to an Air India official on December 26, 2016, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) had said, "Records pertaining to PM's flight have certain information which may have security implications and are, hence, exempted from disclosure under clause (g) of Section 8(1) of the RTI Act, 2005."

"As such, the Air India is advised not to disclose information relating to PM's flight to such RTI queries," it said. It was not clear what had prompted the PMO's email in 2016.

Section 8(1)(g) of the RTI Act exempts from disclosure information that would endanger the life or physical safety of any person or identify the source of information or assistance given in confidence for law enforcement or security purposes.

Batra had mentioned in his RTI application, "It is observed that still there are considerable delays in settling the chartered flight bills and invoices of Air India in respect of foreign tours of the PM. On the other hand, Air India is being bailed out with huge taxpayers' money.

After receiving the response of Air India, citing the PMO's instructions, Batra wrote to Air India saying that there is no provision in the Act to deny information without giving reasons as per section 7(1) of the Act or without quoting the CIC or court orders for denial of Information.

Air India has responded to his letter saying, "We never deny any information which is available as per our records of accounts Dept. As per provision in the Act we are not supposed to supply any copy of our document or as per section 7(1) of the Act, which is informed by PMO."

Batra has also written to the PMO calling the instruction to Air India a "serious lapse".

An RTI application dated February 2, 2018 had sought to know from Air India the dates of invoices raised for chartered flights provided by it for foreign visits of the Prime Minister

Records pertaining to the Prime Minister's chartered flights for visits abroad cannot be disclosed under the RTI Act due to security concerns as per instructions from the PMO, the national carrier has said in response to an application filed by an activist under the transparency law. In his RTI application dated February 2, 2018, Commodore (Retd) Lokesh Batra had sought to know from Air India the dates of invoices raised for chartered flights provided by it for foreign visits of the Prime Minister since November 2016, and the dates of forwarding each of these bills to the Civil Aviation Ministry and the External Affairs Ministry. According to Batra, he got a response from the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) who said he cannot furnish information sought by him, and also sent him an e-mail communication from the PMO to Air India on the issue. In that email, sent to an Air India official on December 26, 2016, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) had said, "Records pertaining to PM's flight have certain information which may have security implications and are, hence, exempted from disclosure under clause (g) of Section 8(1) of the RTI Act, 2005." "As such, the Air India is advised not to disclose information relating to PM's flight to such RTI queries," it said. It was not clear what had prompted the PMO's email in 2016. Section 8(1)(g) of the RTI Act exempts from disclosure information that would endanger the life or physical safety of any person or identify the source of information or assistance given in confidence for law enforcement or security purposes. Batra had mentioned in his RTI application, "It is observed that still there are considerable delays in settling the chartered flight bills and invoices of Air India in respect of foreign tours of the PM. On the other hand, Air India is being bailed out with huge taxpayers' money. After receiving the response of Air India, citing the PMO's instructions, Batra wrote to Air India saying that there is no provision in the Act to deny information without giving reasons as per section 7(1) of the Act or without quoting the CIC or court orders for denial of Information. Air India has responded to his letter saying, "We never deny any information which is available as per our records of accounts Dept. As per provision in the Act we are not supposed to supply any copy of our document or as per section 7(1) of the Act, which is informed by PMO." Batra has also written to the PMO calling the instruction to Air India a "serious lapse".

PM's flight records cannot be disclosed under RTI due to security reasons: Air India

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned a suicide attack on a police check-post near the residence of Pakistan&#39;s ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif in Lahore.

Guterres extended his condolences to the families of the victims of the March 14 attack, a statement from a UN spokesman said adding that the Secretary-General calls for the perpetrators of the attack to be brought to justice.

The statement said the UN supports the efforts of the government of Pakistan to fight terrorism with full respect for international human rights norms and obligations.

A teenaged suicide bomber blew himself up near the residence of Sharif, killing nine people, including five policemen, the police said.

The blast took place close to a check post, a few kilometres from the palatial residence of the Sharif family.&nbsp;

Around 25 people were also injured in the attack.&nbsp;

UN Secretary-General Antonio condemned a suicide attack on a police check-post near the residence of Pakistan's PM Nawaz Sharif in Lahore

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned a suicide attack on a police check-post near the residence of Pakistan's ousted prime minister Nawaz Sharif in Lahore. Guterres extended his condolences to the families of the victims of the March 14 attack, a statement from a UN spokesman said adding that the Secretary-General calls for the perpetrators of the attack to be brought to justice. The statement said the UN supports the efforts of the government of Pakistan to fight terrorism with full respect for international human rights norms and obligations. A teenaged suicide bomber blew himself up near the residence of Sharif, killing nine people, including five policemen, the police said. The blast took place close to a check post, a few kilometres from the palatial residence of the Sharif family. Around 25 people were also injured in the attack.

UN chief condemns attack near Sharif's residence in Lahore

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday greeted the nation on the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day and said that consumer plays an important role in the economy.&nbsp;

Prime Minister took to Twitter and wrote, &quot;Greetings on World Consumer Rights Day. The consumer plays an important role in the economy. The government of India is not only focussing on consumer protection but also consumer prosperity.&quot;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>&nbsp;</h5>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Greetings on World Consumer Rights Day. The consumer plays an important role in the economy. 
 
Government of India is not only focussing on consumer protection but also consumer prosperity. <a href="https://t.co/avsAEhtowZ">pic.twitter.com/avsAEhtowZ</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/974112267292655616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=&lt;blockquote class=twitter-tweet data-lang=en&gt;&lt;p lang=en dir=ltr&gt;Greetings on World Consumer Rights Day. The consumer plays an important role in the economy. &lt;br&gt;&lt;br&gt;Government of India is not only focussing on consumer protection but also consumer prosperity. &lt;a data-cke-saved-href=https://t.co/avsAEhtowZ href=https://t.co/avsAEhtowZ&gt;pic.twitter.com/avsAEhtowZ&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) &lt;a data-cke-saved-href=https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/974112267292655616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw href=https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/974112267292655616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&gt;March 15, 2018&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt;
<script async src=https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js charset=utf-8></script>" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">&times;</a></div>
</div>
</div>

&nbsp;

World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated on March 15 every year.&nbsp;

The consumer movement marks March 15 with World Consumer Rights Day every year, as a means of raising global awareness about consumer rights.&nbsp;

The day is an opportunity to promote basic rights of all consumers, demanding that those rights are respected and protected and gives consumers a chance to protest against the market abuses and social injustices.

The theme for this year is `Making Digital Marketplaces Fairer`. Several functions are being organised across the country to mark the occasion and Consumer Affairs Minister Ram Vilas Paswan will also preside over a function in New Delhi.&nbsp;

On March 15, 1962, President John F Kennedy was the first world leader, who formally addressed the issue of consumer rights in US Congress.&nbsp;

The first World Consumer Rights Day was observed in 1983 and has since become an important occasion for mobilising citizen action.&nbsp;

In India, besides the World Consumer Rights Day, we observe the National Consumer Day on December 24 every year.&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi on Thursday greeted the nation on the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day and said that consumer plays an important role in the economy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday greeted the nation on the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day and said that consumer plays an important role in the economy. Prime Minister took to Twitter and wrote, "Greetings on World Consumer Rights Day. The consumer plays an important role in the economy. The government of India is not only focussing on consumer protection but also consumer prosperity." Greetings on World Consumer Rights Day. The consumer plays an important role in the economy. Government of India is not only focussing on consumer protection but also consumer prosperity. pic.twitter.com/avsAEhtowZ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 15, 2018 × World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated on March 15 every year. The consumer movement marks March 15 with World Consumer Rights Day every year, as a means of raising global awareness about consumer rights. The day is an opportunity to promote basic rights of all consumers, demanding that those rights are respected and protected and gives consumers a chance to protest against the market abuses and social injustices. The theme for this year is `Making Digital Marketplaces Fairer`. Several functions are being organised across the country to mark the occasion and Consumer Affairs Minister Ram Vilas Paswan will also preside over a function in New Delhi. On March 15, 1962, President John F Kennedy was the first world leader, who formally addressed the issue of consumer rights in US Congress. The first World Consumer Rights Day was observed in 1983 and has since become an important occasion for mobilising citizen action. In India, besides the World Consumer Rights Day, we observe the National Consumer Day on December 24 every year.

Consumer plays an important role in economy, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday will visit Manipur to open the Indian Science Congress (ISC).

He is also scheduled to inaugurate several projects and address a public reception function.

The Prime Minister will deliver the inaugural address at the 105th session of the ISC at Manipur University.

After inaugurating the event, he would lay the foundation stone of the National Sports University, a thousand Anganwadi centers and 19 residential complexes for teachers, doctors, and nurses, an official statement said here.

Imphal will become the second city to host this event in the North-East.

At Luwangshangbam, the Prime Minister would inaugurate Luwangpokpa Multi-Sports Complex, ST Girls Hostel (Liberal College) and Rani Gaidinliu Park (Mantripukhri). He would also lay foundation stones for several projects.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

The Prime Minister will deliver the inaugural address at the 105th session of the ISC at Manipur University

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday will visit Manipur to open the Indian Science Congress (ISC). He is also scheduled to inaugurate several projects and address a public reception function. The Prime Minister will deliver the inaugural address at the 105th session of the ISC at Manipur University. After inaugurating the event, he would lay the foundation stone of the National Sports University, a thousand Anganwadi centers and 19 residential complexes for teachers, doctors, and nurses, an official statement said here. Imphal will become the second city to host this event in the North-East. At Luwangshangbam, the Prime Minister would inaugurate Luwangpokpa Multi-Sports Complex, ST Girls Hostel (Liberal College) and Rani Gaidinliu Park (Mantripukhri). He would also lay foundation stones for several projects. (With inputs from Agencies)

PM Narendra Modi to open Indian Science Congress in Imphal on March 16

Pm, News on Pm, stories on Pm, articles on Pm, Pm stories at Wion, Pm news, Pm latest news