Union Environment and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday urged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to take measures to tackle air pollution in national capital instead of indulging in 'blame-game'.

Addressing media persons after an event here, Javadekar said, "I think it is unfortunate that a Chief Minister, instead of finding solutions to mitigate pollution is into a blame game."

"Instead of spending Rs 1500 crores on advertisements, if Delhi government spends the money to buy machines for disposing off crop stubble for farmers of Punjab and Haryana, it will be more beneficial," said Javadekar.

Stating that the geophysical conditions surrounding the national capital play a role in increasing air pollution, the Union Minister appealed to Delhi, Punjab and Haryana governments to work together in order to tackle the menace.

Holding stubble burning in the neighbouring states responsible for rising air pollution in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday asked Punjab, Haryana and Central governments to give specific deadlines, by when they will put stop on stubble burning.

The air quality in the national capital and its adjoining regions on Saturday continued to remain in the 'hazardous category'&nbsp;with the pollution level hovering near 400.

Due to the prevailing weather condition, the Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi has announced to shut the schools till November 5 and has also banned all construction activities. The government has declared a "public health emergency".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Environment and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday urged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to take measures to tackle air pollution in national capital instead of indulging in 'blame-game'.

Union Environment and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday urged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to take measures to tackle air pollution in national capital instead of indulging in 'blame-game'. Addressing media persons after an event here, Javadekar said, "I think it is unfortunate that a Chief Minister, instead of finding solutions to mitigate pollution is into a blame game." "Instead of spending Rs 1500 crores on advertisements, if Delhi government spends the money to buy machines for disposing off crop stubble for farmers of Punjab and Haryana, it will be more beneficial," said Javadekar. Stating that the geophysical conditions surrounding the national capital play a role in increasing air pollution, the Union Minister appealed to Delhi, Punjab and Haryana governments to work together in order to tackle the menace. Holding stubble burning in the neighbouring states responsible for rising air pollution in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday asked Punjab, Haryana and Central governments to give specific deadlines, by when they will put stop on stubble burning. The air quality in the national capital and its adjoining regions on Saturday continued to remain in the 'hazardous category' with the pollution level hovering near 400. Due to the prevailing weather condition, the Arvind Kejriwal government in Delhi has announced to shut the schools till November 5 and has also banned all construction activities. The government has declared a "public health emergency".

Javadekar urges Kejriwal to find solutions to mitigate pollution and stop 'blame-game'

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday accused Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of playing blame-game over rising <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/feeling-breathless-delhi-ncr-residents-complain-as-air-quality-turns-hazardous-259171">pollution level in Delhi</a> and said blaming Punjab and Haryana would not solve the problem.

"Delhi Chief Minister is playing politics and blame-game on pollution levels," he said. He further said, "Instead of blaming Punjab and Haryana, he would think about Modi ji`s proposal to curb pollutants produced by industries in five states (adjacent to Delhi)."

The Minister accused Kejriwal of not releasing the state`s share for the Eastern Peripheral Way and bypass road that could reduce the pollution levels in the national capital.

"The state government had to release Rs 35 crore but they did not give it. They had to release Rs 1000 crore on a court order," Javadekar said.

Earlier today, Kejriwal blamed the Haryana and Punjab governments for rising pollution levels in the national capital region.

"The (Manohar Lal) Khattar and Captain (Amarinder Singh) governments are forcing farmers to burn stubble, which is causing severe pollution in Delhi," he tweeted.

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खट्टर और कैप्टन सरकारें अपने किसानों को पराली जलाने पर मजबूर कर रहीं हैं जिसकी वजह से दिल्ली में भारी प्रदूषण है 
 
कल पंजाब और हरियाणा भवन पर लोगों ने प्रदर्शन कर वहां की सरकारों के प्रति अपना रोष प्रकट किया। <a href="https://t.co/p4MfgVND4C">https://t.co/p4MfgVND4C</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1190095635615059969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The air quality has been "hazardous" in the national capital for the past several days. According to Punjab Remote Sensing Centre (PRSC), straw burning in the two states has increased this year.

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday accused Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of playing blame-game over rising pollution level in Delhi and said blaming Punjab and Haryana would not solve the problem.

Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday accused Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal of playing blame-game over rising pollution level in Delhi and said blaming Punjab and Haryana would not solve the problem. "Delhi Chief Minister is playing politics and blame-game on pollution levels," he said. He further said, "Instead of blaming Punjab and Haryana, he would think about Modi ji`s proposal to curb pollutants produced by industries in five states (adjacent to Delhi)." The Minister accused Kejriwal of not releasing the state`s share for the Eastern Peripheral Way and bypass road that could reduce the pollution levels in the national capital. "The state government had to release Rs 35 crore but they did not give it. They had to release Rs 1000 crore on a court order," Javadekar said. Earlier today, Kejriwal blamed the Haryana and Punjab governments for rising pollution levels in the national capital region. "The (Manohar Lal) Khattar and Captain (Amarinder Singh) governments are forcing farmers to burn stubble, which is causing severe pollution in Delhi," he tweeted. खट्टर और कैप्टन सरकारें अपने किसानों को पराली जलाने पर मजबूर कर रहीं हैं जिसकी वजह से दिल्ली में भारी प्रदूषण है कल पंजाब और हरियाणा भवन पर लोगों ने प्रदर्शन कर वहां की सरकारों के प्रति अपना रोष प्रकट किया। https://t.co/p4MfgVND4C — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 1, 2019 × The air quality has been "hazardous" in the national capital for the past several days. According to Punjab Remote Sensing Centre (PRSC), straw burning in the two states has increased this year.

Delhi pollution: Javadekar accuses Kejriwal of playing blame-game

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday called the formation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories 'a start to a new chapter'.

Javadekar was speaking at an event organised here to mark the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas where he paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 144th birth anniversary.

"Recently, a historic decision was taken by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha with the abrogation of Article 370. Pleased to announce that both Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have come into being as Union Territories from today, which is a start to a new chapter," he said while addressing students of different schools.

With the J-K Reorganisation Act coming into effect today, on the same day as Patel's birth anniversary, the state of Jammu and Kashmir has been officially bifurcated into two Union territories -- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

RK Mathur and GC Murmu were sworn as Lieutenant Governors of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, respectively.

It is for the first time that a state has been bifurcated into Union Territories. Now, India has nine Union Territories.

Recalling the rich contributions made by Patel in unifying 565 princely states, he said "Sardar Patel convinced and brought all states together. He taught us unity."

"Earlier Statue of Liberty in America was the tallest statue of the world, today we can say proudly that we have the Statue of Unity which is the tallest in the world," he added urging students to visit the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat.

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday called the formation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories 'a start to a new chapter'. Javadekar was speaking at an event organised here to mark the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas where he paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 144th birth anniversary.

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday called the formation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh Union Territories 'a start to a new chapter'. Javadekar was speaking at an event organised here to mark the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas where he paid floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on his 144th birth anniversary. "Recently, a historic decision was taken by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha with the abrogation of Article 370. Pleased to announce that both Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have come into being as Union Territories from today, which is a start to a new chapter," he said while addressing students of different schools. With the J-K Reorganisation Act coming into effect today, on the same day as Patel's birth anniversary, the state of Jammu and Kashmir has been officially bifurcated into two Union territories -- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. RK Mathur and GC Murmu were sworn as Lieutenant Governors of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, respectively. It is for the first time that a state has been bifurcated into Union Territories. Now, India has nine Union Territories. Recalling the rich contributions made by Patel in unifying 565 princely states, he said "Sardar Patel convinced and brought all states together. He taught us unity." "Earlier Statue of Liberty in America was the tallest statue of the world, today we can say proudly that we have the Statue of Unity which is the tallest in the world," he added urging students to visit the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Gujarat.

Formation of J&K, Ladakh UTs a start to 'new chapter': Prakash Javadekar

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who celebrated Diwali with soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri, has sent out a message that everyone should celebrate festivals with those who serve us.

Calling it an "inspiring act", Javadekar told ANI, "Every year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaches out to the soldiers on the border in various front areas. It is a very innovative, and more importantly a very inspiring activity by the Prime Minister. This is a message for all of us that we should celebrate festivals with those who serve us. This is for the sixth year he is celebrating Diwali like this."

He continued, "This not only boosts the morale of the security forces but also gives ethical teaching of working with everybody who makes our lives easy. I am very sure these actions of Prime Minister Modi are changing India rapidly."

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday celebrated Diwali with personnel of Indian Army in Rajouri district along the Line of Control (LoC).

Clad in Army colours, the Prime Minister, accompanied by Army Chief General Bipin Rawat and Northern Army Commander Lieutenant-General Ranbir Singh greeted the soldiers and served them sweets on the auspicious occasion.

Modi also addressed the soldiers, thanking them for their service and talked about major steps being taken by the government for their welfare.

The Prime Minister also exchanged Diwali greetings with the Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel at Pathankot Air Force Station.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who celebrated Diwali with soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri, has sent out a message that everyone should celebrate festivals with those who serve us.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who celebrated Diwali with soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri, has sent out a message that everyone should celebrate festivals with those who serve us. Calling it an "inspiring act", Javadekar told ANI, "Every year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaches out to the soldiers on the border in various front areas. It is a very innovative, and more importantly a very inspiring activity by the Prime Minister. This is a message for all of us that we should celebrate festivals with those who serve us. This is for the sixth year he is celebrating Diwali like this." He continued, "This not only boosts the morale of the security forces but also gives ethical teaching of working with everybody who makes our lives easy. I am very sure these actions of Prime Minister Modi are changing India rapidly." Prime Minister Modi on Sunday celebrated Diwali with personnel of Indian Army in Rajouri district along the Line of Control (LoC). Clad in Army colours, the Prime Minister, accompanied by Army Chief General Bipin Rawat and Northern Army Commander Lieutenant-General Ranbir Singh greeted the soldiers and served them sweets on the auspicious occasion. Modi also addressed the soldiers, thanking them for their service and talked about major steps being taken by the government for their welfare. The Prime Minister also exchanged Diwali greetings with the Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel at Pathankot Air Force Station.

PM Modi celebrating Diwali with soldiers is an inspiring act for all: Prakash Javadekar 

Prakash Javadekar on Thursday said that apart from winning the Haryana and Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP will win in upcoming Jharkhand and Delhi polls too.

"After five years, people gave us more mandate in Lok Sabha elections. Now they will give us more mandate in Assembly elections. After Maharashtra and Haryana, we will also win in Jharkhand and Delhi," Javadekar told ANI.

While talking to media, Javadekar said that people of Maharashtra and Haryana have trust in the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the works done by the governments in the respective state.

Assembly elections were held in Maharashtra and Haryana on October 21, while counting of votes is currently underway.

Meanwhile, talking about India's jump of 14 positions to be ranked 63rd in the World Bank's ease of doing business rankings, Javadekar said, "India is becoming very hot destination for FDI and other business because of conscious policy decisions and practices adopted by Narendra Modi government, which is proving real ease of doing business and ease of living. Therefore, people are preferring India over many other countries."

He added, "We were 142 in ease of doing business ranking in 2014. Last year, we were 77 and now this year we have again jumped to 63. Our march towards providing ease of doing business and ease of living will continue and that is what India deserves."

Prakash Javadekar on Thursday said that apart from winning the Haryana and Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP will win in upcoming Jharkhand and Delhi polls too.

Prakash Javadekar on Thursday said that apart from winning the Haryana and Maharashtra Assembly elections, the BJP will win in upcoming Jharkhand and Delhi polls too. "After five years, people gave us more mandate in Lok Sabha elections. Now they will give us more mandate in Assembly elections. After Maharashtra and Haryana, we will also win in Jharkhand and Delhi," Javadekar told ANI. While talking to media, Javadekar said that people of Maharashtra and Haryana have trust in the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the works done by the governments in the respective state. Assembly elections were held in Maharashtra and Haryana on October 21, while counting of votes is currently underway. Meanwhile, talking about India's jump of 14 positions to be ranked 63rd in the World Bank's ease of doing business rankings, Javadekar said, "India is becoming very hot destination for FDI and other business because of conscious policy decisions and practices adopted by Narendra Modi government, which is proving real ease of doing business and ease of living. Therefore, people are preferring India over many other countries." He added, "We were 142 in ease of doing business ranking in 2014. Last year, we were 77 and now this year we have again jumped to 63. Our march towards providing ease of doing business and ease of living will continue and that is what India deserves."

After Maharashtra, Haryana we will win in Delhi and Jharkhand too: Javadekar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to former President and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/nation-celebrates-missile-man-and-former-president-dr-apj-abdul-kalams-88th-birth-anniversary-255990#early-life-255972">'Missile Man' of India</a>, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his 88th birth anniversary.

Remembering Dr Kalam's contributions to the country, PM Modi said, "His ideal life will keep on inspiring the people of the country".

"My heartfelt tribute to Dr APJ Abdul Kalam ji on his anniversary. He dreamt of the India of 21st century, which was capable and then went on to give his exceptional contribution to the goal. His ideal life will keep on inspiring the people of the country. India salutes Dr APJ Abdul Kalamji on his Jayanti," PM Modi wrote on Twitter.

Among the various other leaders, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to the late leader. He said that Dr Kalam was "People's President who would continue to live in the hearts and mind of the people of India."

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Remembering former President of India and a phenomenal scientist, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam on his birth anniversary. He was a people’s president who would continue to live in the hearts and minds of the people of India. I bow to him on his jayanti.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1183951490672541696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Along with Singh, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria and Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh also paid&nbsp;tributes to Dr Kalam, at Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Bhawan in Delhi.

Born on October 15, 1931, at Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, Dr Kalam specialised in Aeronautical Engineering from Madras Institute of Technology.&nbsp;After having a successful career as an aerospace scientist, he went on to become the 11th President of India and served the country from 2002 to 2007.

In 2010, the United Nations decided to recognise October 15 as World Student Day as Dr Kalam was known for his dedications towards teaching. He always referred to himself as a teacher first.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar while paying tribute to Kalam, reminded citizens that it was due to his extreme love and dedication to the students that the former President's birthday was celebrated as the World Students Day.

"The birthday of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam - the most popular President of India -is celebrated as World Students Day. He was a real teacher and loved students and even died while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. My tributes to the Bharat Ratna Abdul Kalam," Javadekar's tweet read.&nbsp;

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The birthday of Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam - The most popular President of India -is celebrated as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldStudentsDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldStudentsDay</a> . He was a real teacher &amp; loved students &amp; even died while delivering a lecture at the Indian Inst. of Management Shillong. My tributes to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatRatna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatRatna</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Abdulkalam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Abdulkalam</a> <a href="https://t.co/MrhJWz4Vb9">pic.twitter.com/MrhJWz4Vb9</a>
— Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) <a href="https://twitter.com/PrakashJavdekar/status/1183933452254613504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dr Kalam&nbsp;suffered a cardiac arrest on July 27, 2015, and passed away while giving a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management in Shillong.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to former President and 'Missile Man' of India, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his 88th birth anniversary. Remembering Dr Kalam's contributions to the country, PM Modi said, "His ideal life will keep on inspiring the people of the country".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid homage to former President and 'Missile Man' of India, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his 88th birth anniversary. Remembering Dr Kalam's contributions to the country, PM Modi said, "His ideal life will keep on inspiring the people of the country". "My heartfelt tribute to Dr APJ Abdul Kalam ji on his anniversary. He dreamt of the India of 21st century, which was capable and then went on to give his exceptional contribution to the goal. His ideal life will keep on inspiring the people of the country. India salutes Dr APJ Abdul Kalamji on his Jayanti," PM Modi wrote on Twitter. Among the various other leaders, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to the late leader. He said that Dr Kalam was "People's President who would continue to live in the hearts and mind of the people of India." Remembering former President of India and a phenomenal scientist, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam on his birth anniversary. He was a people’s president who would continue to live in the hearts and minds of the people of India. I bow to him on his jayanti. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 15, 2019 × Along with Singh, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria and Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh also paid tributes to Dr Kalam, at Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Bhawan in Delhi. Born on October 15, 1931, at Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, Dr Kalam specialised in Aeronautical Engineering from Madras Institute of Technology. After having a successful career as an aerospace scientist, he went on to become the 11th President of India and served the country from 2002 to 2007. In 2010, the United Nations decided to recognise October 15 as World Student Day as Dr Kalam was known for his dedications towards teaching. He always referred to himself as a teacher first. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar while paying tribute to Kalam, reminded citizens that it was due to his extreme love and dedication to the students that the former President's birthday was celebrated as the World Students Day. "The birthday of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam - the most popular President of India -is celebrated as World Students Day. He was a real teacher and loved students and even died while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong. My tributes to the Bharat Ratna Abdul Kalam," Javadekar's tweet read. The birthday of Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam - The most popular President of India -is celebrated as #WorldStudentsDay . He was a real teacher & loved students & even died while delivering a lecture at the Indian Inst. of Management Shillong. My tributes to the #BharatRatna #Abdulkalam pic.twitter.com/MrhJWz4Vb9 — Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) October 15, 2019 × Dr Kalam suffered a cardiac arrest on July 27, 2015, and passed away while giving a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management in Shillong.

PM Modi pays tribute to 'Missile Man' Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his 88th birth anniversary

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that the Bharat Stage (BS) VI fuel will be made available in the country from April 1 next year.

"The BS-VI fuel will be made available from April 1 in the country. The BS-VI compliant vehicles will also be made available from next year. This initiative will reduce pollution in the air by 80-90 per cent," Javadekar said while speaking to media.

Javadekar was in Jaipur to participate in a tree plantation event at the Malaviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT) here on the occasion of Vijayadashami.

The minister further informed that in a bid to reduce pollution under the National Clean Air Campaign, the government had chalked out plans for about 122 cities.

"The funds have also been issued by the Central government. Government has also been monitoring companies that are contributing immensely to pollution levels in the country," he said.

The Supreme Court on October 24, last year, had ruled that no BS-IV vehicle will be sold across the country with effect from April 1, 2020.

Instead, the BS-VI emission norm will come into force across the country.

The major difference between the existing BS-IV and forthcoming BS-VI norm is the presence of sulphur in the fuel. These emission standards were set by the government to keep a check on the pollutant levels emitted by vehicles that use combustion engines.&nbsp;

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that the Bharat Stage (BS) VI fuel will be made available in the country from April 1 next year. "The BS-VI fuel will be made available from April 1 in the country.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that the Bharat Stage (BS) VI fuel will be made available in the country from April 1 next year. "The BS-VI fuel will be made available from April 1 in the country. The BS-VI compliant vehicles will also be made available from next year. This initiative will reduce pollution in the air by 80-90 per cent," Javadekar said while speaking to media. Javadekar was in Jaipur to participate in a tree plantation event at the Malaviya National Institute of Technology (MNIT) here on the occasion of Vijayadashami. The minister further informed that in a bid to reduce pollution under the National Clean Air Campaign, the government had chalked out plans for about 122 cities. "The funds have also been issued by the Central government. Government has also been monitoring companies that are contributing immensely to pollution levels in the country," he said. The Supreme Court on October 24, last year, had ruled that no BS-IV vehicle will be sold across the country with effect from April 1, 2020. Instead, the BS-VI emission norm will come into force across the country. The major difference between the existing BS-IV and forthcoming BS-VI norm is the presence of sulphur in the fuel. These emission standards were set by the government to keep a check on the pollutant levels emitted by vehicles that use combustion engines.

BS VI fuel to be available in country from April 1 next year: Javadekar

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-green-cover-has-increased-by-15000-sq-km-in-last-four-years-union-minister-prakash-javadekar-254219">Union Minister Prakash Javadekar</a> on Monday said that BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming to Delhi from April 2020.

While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar highlighted various initiatives taken by the central government to control pollution.

"Since 2006, air quality in Delhi has been deteriorating rapidly. But till 2014, neither it was talked about nor much work was done to improve it. In 2015, Prime Minister started Air Quality Index. 113 AQI monitoring stations are there at present in Delhi-NCR and 29 more will be installed soon," Javadekar said.

"A revolutionary decision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership was taken in 2015 to start BS4 category. Because of this, 80 per cent of PM (particulate matter) of trucks was reduced. BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming in Delhi in April 2020. BS6 petrol and diesel is already available in Delhi-NCR. It will lead to a great reduction in air pollution from vehicles... For this, the government has spent Rs 60,000 crore," he added.

Ahead of Diwali, Javadekar advised people to refrain from bursting firecrackers.

"I am confident that children themselves will ask parents to not buy firecrackers, but if someone wants to then buy green firecrackers. It's a historic initiative of Dr Harsh Vardhan," he said.

Javadekar stated that ever since the implementation of the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA), more PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificates are being issued.

The maintenance of vehicles has improved, he said.

Moreover, Javadekar highlighted that good air days have improved and bad air days have been reduced.

"In 2016, good days were just 108. Last year, they were 159. Bad air days were 246 which have been reduced to 206. Till September 30, out of 270 days, 165 are good air days and only 108 were bad air days," he said.

On the issue of stubble burning, Javadekar stated that the government has granted Rs 1,150 crore to Punjab and Haryana with which over 20,000 machines were bought.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has formed 46 teams to keep a check on pollution-related actives in Delhi-NCR, the minister said.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming to Delhi from April 2020. While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar highlighted various initiatives taken by the central government to control pollution.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming to Delhi from April 2020. While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar highlighted various initiatives taken by the central government to control pollution. "Since 2006, air quality in Delhi has been deteriorating rapidly. But till 2014, neither it was talked about nor much work was done to improve it. In 2015, Prime Minister started Air Quality Index. 113 AQI monitoring stations are there at present in Delhi-NCR and 29 more will be installed soon," Javadekar said. "A revolutionary decision under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership was taken in 2015 to start BS4 category. Because of this, 80 per cent of PM (particulate matter) of trucks was reduced. BS6-compliant vehicles will be coming in Delhi in April 2020. BS6 petrol and diesel is already available in Delhi-NCR. It will lead to a great reduction in air pollution from vehicles... For this, the government has spent Rs 60,000 crore," he added. Ahead of Diwali, Javadekar advised people to refrain from bursting firecrackers. "I am confident that children themselves will ask parents to not buy firecrackers, but if someone wants to then buy green firecrackers. It's a historic initiative of Dr Harsh Vardhan," he said. Javadekar stated that ever since the implementation of the amended Motor Vehicle Act (MVA), more PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificates are being issued. The maintenance of vehicles has improved, he said. Moreover, Javadekar highlighted that good air days have improved and bad air days have been reduced. "In 2016, good days were just 108. Last year, they were 159. Bad air days were 246 which have been reduced to 206. Till September 30, out of 270 days, 165 are good air days and only 108 were bad air days," he said. On the issue of stubble burning, Javadekar stated that the government has granted Rs 1,150 crore to Punjab and Haryana with which over 20,000 machines were bought. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has formed 46 teams to keep a check on pollution-related actives in Delhi-NCR, the minister said.

BS6-compliant vehicles in Delhi from April 2020, says Union minister Prakash Javadekar

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that India's green cover had increased by 15,000 square kilometres in the last four years.

While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar was asked about the ongoing issue of Aarey Colony in Mumbai.

"Supreme Court has given a decision on it, so I will not comment on the matter," Javadekar said.

However, Javadekar stated that the policy and the practice is, "if you cut one tree, you plant and ensure the growth of five trees."

Asked whether afforestation has worked, Javadekar replied, "In the last four years, the green cover of the country has increased by 15,000 square kilometres. There are only a few countries in the world whose green cover has increased, that includes India."

A special bench of the Supreme Court today asked the Maharashtra government to ensure that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-maharashtra-government-to-not-cut-more-trees-in-aarey-forest-254181">no trees are further axed</a> at Mumbai's Aarey Colony.

A Bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Ashok Bhushan directed the government to maintain the status quo and said it would further hear all the petitions in the matter on October 21.

The court passed the directive after hearing a suo moto PIL based on a letter written by a group of law students to the court against the felling of trees.&nbsp;

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that India's green cover had increased by 15,000 square kilometres in the last four years. While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar was asked about the ongoing issue of Aarey Colony in Mumbai.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Monday said that India's green cover had increased by 15,000 square kilometres in the last four years. While addressing a press conference here, Javadekar was asked about the ongoing issue of Aarey Colony in Mumbai. "Supreme Court has given a decision on it, so I will not comment on the matter," Javadekar said. However, Javadekar stated that the policy and the practice is, "if you cut one tree, you plant and ensure the growth of five trees." Asked whether afforestation has worked, Javadekar replied, "In the last four years, the green cover of the country has increased by 15,000 square kilometres. There are only a few countries in the world whose green cover has increased, that includes India." A special bench of the Supreme Court today asked the Maharashtra government to ensure that no trees are further axed at Mumbai's Aarey Colony. A Bench of Justices Arun Mishra and Ashok Bhushan directed the government to maintain the status quo and said it would further hear all the petitions in the matter on October 21. The court passed the directive after hearing a suo moto PIL based on a letter written by a group of law students to the court against the felling of trees.

India's green cover has increased by 15,000 sq km in last four years: Union minister Prakash Javadekar

Amid ongoing public protests against the cutting of trees at Aarey colony in Mumbai, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday backed the proposed metro shed in Aarey forest area and said that development and environment protection should be done together.

Drawing parallels between the development of Delhi metro and Mumbai metro he said, "The High Court has ruled that Aarey is not a forest. Metro came to Delhi now today it is the best metro across the world. How does it develop? When the first metro station was constructed, 20-25 trees were cut down. People then protested against it".

"But metro has planted 5 trees for every single tree that it has taken down. Now, there are 271 stations. Forest undercover area has increased in Delhi. 30 lakh people are using the metro as public transport. This is the mantra of development and protecting the environment. Both should go together," the BJP leader said.

Protests erupted on Friday at Aarey forest area after the Bombay High Court dismissed all petitions against the proposed cutting down of over 2,500 trees in Aarey Colony of Mumbai to make way for a Metro car shed and refused to declare the colony as a forest.

BJP alliance partner Shiv Sena has attacked Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for backing the metro shed.Shiv Sena senior leader and Rajya Sabha lawmaker Sanjay Raut on Saturday morning posted a cartoon in which the BJP leader is blindfolding Lady Justice with a strip of cloth that reads, "Arey not a forest."

Party chief Uddhav Thackeray's son and Youth President Aaditya Thackeray asked Mumbai Metro to listen to sensible demands of sustainable development."

A project that should be executed with pride, the Metro 3, @MumbaiMetro3 has to do it in the cover of the night, with shame, slyness and heavy cop cover. The project supposed to get Mumbai clean air, is hacking down a forest with a leopard, rusty-spotted cat and more," he tweeted.

Earlier, Fadnavis had said that the government is bound to cut trees in Mumbai's Aarey forest as "development is important".

"We do not wish to cut even a single tree in Aarey, but the development is also important. We will plant more trees in place of those cut. I will personally speak to Aditya Thackeray about this," he said.Meanwhile, prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC imposed in the area near the metro-rail project site in Aarey forest.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Amid ongoing public protests against the cutting of trees at Aarey colony in Mumbai, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday backed the proposed metro shed in Aarey forest area and said that development and environment protection should be done together.

Amid ongoing public protests against the cutting of trees at Aarey colony in Mumbai, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday backed the proposed metro shed in Aarey forest area and said that development and environment protection should be done together. Drawing parallels between the development of Delhi metro and Mumbai metro he said, "The High Court has ruled that Aarey is not a forest. Metro came to Delhi now today it is the best metro across the world. How does it develop? When the first metro station was constructed, 20-25 trees were cut down. People then protested against it". "But metro has planted 5 trees for every single tree that it has taken down. Now, there are 271 stations. Forest undercover area has increased in Delhi. 30 lakh people are using the metro as public transport. This is the mantra of development and protecting the environment. Both should go together," the BJP leader said. Protests erupted on Friday at Aarey forest area after the Bombay High Court dismissed all petitions against the proposed cutting down of over 2,500 trees in Aarey Colony of Mumbai to make way for a Metro car shed and refused to declare the colony as a forest. BJP alliance partner Shiv Sena has attacked Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for backing the metro shed.Shiv Sena senior leader and Rajya Sabha lawmaker Sanjay Raut on Saturday morning posted a cartoon in which the BJP leader is blindfolding Lady Justice with a strip of cloth that reads, "Arey not a forest." Party chief Uddhav Thackeray's son and Youth President Aaditya Thackeray asked Mumbai Metro to listen to sensible demands of sustainable development." A project that should be executed with pride, the Metro 3, @MumbaiMetro3 has to do it in the cover of the night, with shame, slyness and heavy cop cover. The project supposed to get Mumbai clean air, is hacking down a forest with a leopard, rusty-spotted cat and more," he tweeted. Earlier, Fadnavis had said that the government is bound to cut trees in Mumbai's Aarey forest as "development is important". "We do not wish to cut even a single tree in Aarey, but the development is also important. We will plant more trees in place of those cut. I will personally speak to Aditya Thackeray about this," he said.Meanwhile, prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC imposed in the area near the metro-rail project site in Aarey forest.

Javadekar backs cutting trees at Aarey, says development and environment protection should go together

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday (local time) said that over 195 solar panels had been installed in the United Nations (UN) Headquarters by India as a mark of tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi.

"The United Nations commemorated 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi by planting 150 trees and India erected 195 solar panels on the terrace of UN," Javadekar told ANI.

Earlier today, PM Modi inaugurated a 50 kilowatt 'Gandhi Solar Park' at the Headquarters of the UN, on the second leg of his visit to the United States.

The event was hosted to celebrate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, which will underline the continuing relevance of Gandhian thoughts and values in today's world.&nbsp;

Javadekar said that the initiative by PM Modi was appreciated by the leaders across the world."This was a unique program. [The teachings of] non-violence, peace, antyodaya (uplifting of the weakest section of the society) by Mahatma Gandhi was remembered," he added.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday (local time) said that over 195 solar panels had been installed in the United Nations (UN) Headquarters by India as a mark of tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday (local time) said that over 195 solar panels had been installed in the United Nations (UN) Headquarters by India as a mark of tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi. "The United Nations commemorated 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi by planting 150 trees and India erected 195 solar panels on the terrace of UN," Javadekar told ANI. Earlier today, PM Modi inaugurated a 50 kilowatt 'Gandhi Solar Park' at the Headquarters of the UN, on the second leg of his visit to the United States. The event was hosted to celebrate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, which will underline the continuing relevance of Gandhian thoughts and values in today's world. Javadekar said that the initiative by PM Modi was appreciated by the leaders across the world."This was a unique program. [The teachings of] non-violence, peace, antyodaya (uplifting of the weakest section of the society) by Mahatma Gandhi was remembered," he added.

Over 130 solar panels installed by India on UN's rooftop: Prakash Javadekar

On the sidelines of the UN Climate Summit, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar spoke to WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay in an exclusive conversation. Javadekar spoke on a range of issues and stated that India has emerged as a global leader on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-how-dare-you-greta-thunberg-thunders-at-world-leaders-at-united-nations-251573">climate change</a>.

Here's the full transcript of the interview.&nbsp;

WION: The kind of commitment that India has shown on climate change, would it be fair to say that while developed countries kept their side of the bargain, India has emerged as a global leader on climate change?

Javadekar: I think absolutely yes, it has been a stunning performance by India and what a change. Five years ago, we were considered as the backbenchers now we are leading from the front with our actions. India has done remarkably in solar energy program, renewable energy program, the water program, the sanitation program, the clean air program, the clean fuel program, bio-fuel, and many others. Our forest covers, tree covers have increased, in-forest and outside forest also to an extent of 15,000 sq kilometres. So, it's all under Modi ji's dynamic leadership that all these actions are happening in India and we can proudly put before the world.

WION: PM Modi had said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-for-talks-is-over-world-needs-to-act-now-pm-modi-at-un-climate-change-summit-251563">time for talking is over</a> and it is the time for the action, that India has come up with a roadmap.

Javadekar: The roadmap is what he laid out today. As far as renewable energy is concerned, as far as bio-fuel is concerned, then making fuel also taking it to the next level and at the same time investing more money, the increase in forest cover, the water mission, the sanitation program, single-use plastic ban call. The prime minister has not called for a ban, he has appealed to the common people to stop using single-use plastic.

That's what the program is about, collecting the uncollected plastic waste, uncollected plastic waste is a problem and that will be addressed through this public movement. We issued a notification in 2016 on plastic waste management, which also has elements on extended producers responsibility and many other factors, so now we have given some time to corporations and municipal bodies and will now be implementing it more strictly after the October 2 program launch by the prime minister.

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WION: On single-use plastic ban, the prime minister said the move does not succeed unless you provide a viable alternative, your thoughts?&nbsp;

Javadekar: The prime minister never talked about banning. To stop using single-use plastic is a public movement, it is a voluntary action. The problem is uncollected plastic waste below 50 microns, the thin bags are a major problem. Because for grocery shops or for buying vegetables also, people use those thin plastic bags. PM Modi says to use a cloth bag instead, it was being used earlier too.

The bottles that get recycled are not a problem. The prime minister wants to change the habit of extra dependence on plastic. Let there be a public movement, let there be regulations to follow and then we can achieve the target of clean India also by addressing the last mile of waste management.

WION: PM Modi also mentioned a global behavioural change. Do you believe that any of these roadmaps with leading economies of the world like us would not follow the actions? Like the US pulling out of the Paris accord and that has dealt a blow to global climate action.

Javadekar: I don't know the records actually but ever since the US pulled out of the Paris accord, today was the first time when US President Donald Trump dropped in a UN meeting on climate and that too to listen to PM Modi.

WION: Does that denote a change of heart?

Javadekar: I don't know, but lets always be hopeful that things will change for the better.

WION: Another point that was raised today was a disaster-resilient infrastructure. At a time when the global economy is under pressure if you talk about meeting emission norms, if you talk about pushing global climate action, it puts immense pressure on emerging economies like India. How do we balance with that?

Javadekar: That is the real issue, therefore the role of finance and technology transfer, seamless technology transfer becomes more important. Because you should not profit from possible disaster or a certain disaster of climate change. So, technologies we can reduce emissions must be available to the world at an affordable cost. That's the point which we are raising. The last two days we were in a meeting for industrial transitions and low carbon path. That's very important.

We need innovations and technologies to be cheaper, technologies to be affordable so that it is a win-win situation where you reduce the emissions and can still manage it effectively without increasing the price and without becoming uncompetitive in the markets.

WION: The prime minister also linked it to the Indian tradition and called it a people's movement. Movements and policies succeed when there is a political push and political will. In recent general elections in India, talks of climate change were in the manifesto but it was not in front of any political parties' manifesto or agenda. Do you think the PM wants climate change as the central point for the political agenda as well?

Javadekar: He is not setting the political agenda, what he is doing is taking India's legacy forward. We have a very good term in our tradition which is 'charachar srishti' which means flora and fauna becomes a family, that is what India's ethos is all about. We care about the environment, our theme is that the environment will give you enough but your greed cannot be fulfilled because we have limited resources - that is the message of the Indian culture. You know that the Bishnoi tribes in Rajasthan sacrificed their lives so that the trees could not be cut, that's a huge thing.

WION: We know that Delhi, during Diwali, will become a gas chamber. Is the government going to do anything about it?

Javadekar: We have already done 5 major things, therefore the good days - as far as clean air is considered - have increased and the number of bad air days has reduced. Point 2.5 and point 10 mg of dust particles have also reduced in the last 5 years because of our concentrated actions. Eastern peripheral expressway was completed by this government and therefore around 60,000 vehicles which use to pass through Delhi are now not coming to Delhi, which used to add great pollution to that extent.

With respect to industrial pollution, there is an effective ban on industries and pollution, 24 hours monitoring, a new technology for bricks cleaning and many measures are in place so that industrial pollution is under check. For dust pollution, we came out with the construction management rule, the construction and waste demolition rule now has new factories also under the purview.

We have already closed the Badarpur power plant and Rajghat power plant. We have already switched to BS-Vi fuel. Vehicles from April 1 will be BS-Vi compliant. Thousands of three-wheeler vehicles are already e-rikshaws. All this has had an impact on air pollution.

Even in stubble burning, there is a reduction of 30 per cent because the central government has invested, state governments have invested, we are offering incentives so that they don't burn and use that for many other uses. So everything is going as per the plan.

In November, yes, there is always a problem because we have windless and rainless winters. These are two naturals things which worsen the air quality, but we have at least accepted that there is a problem, we started AQI, the prime minister launched and we also established hundreds of air quality monitoring stations. We are doing localised experiments also. Everything is resulting favourably as far as Delhi's air pollution is concerned.

On the sidelines of the UN Climate Summit, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar spoke to WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay in an exclusive conversation.

On the sidelines of the UN Climate Summit, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar spoke to WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay in an exclusive conversation. Javadekar spoke on a range of issues and stated that India has emerged as a global leader on climate change. Here's the full transcript of the interview. WION: The kind of commitment that India has shown on climate change, would it be fair to say that while developed countries kept their side of the bargain, India has emerged as a global leader on climate change? Javadekar: I think absolutely yes, it has been a stunning performance by India and what a change. Five years ago, we were considered as the backbenchers now we are leading from the front with our actions. India has done remarkably in solar energy program, renewable energy program, the water program, the sanitation program, the clean air program, the clean fuel program, bio-fuel, and many others. Our forest covers, tree covers have increased, in-forest and outside forest also to an extent of 15,000 sq kilometres. So, it's all under Modi ji's dynamic leadership that all these actions are happening in India and we can proudly put before the world. WION: PM Modi had said that the time for talking is over and it is the time for the action, that India has come up with a roadmap. Javadekar: The roadmap is what he laid out today. As far as renewable energy is concerned, as far as bio-fuel is concerned, then making fuel also taking it to the next level and at the same time investing more money, the increase in forest cover, the water mission, the sanitation program, single-use plastic ban call. The prime minister has not called for a ban, he has appealed to the common people to stop using single-use plastic. That's what the program is about, collecting the uncollected plastic waste, uncollected plastic waste is a problem and that will be addressed through this public movement. We issued a notification in 2016 on plastic waste management, which also has elements on extended producers responsibility and many other factors, so now we have given some time to corporations and municipal bodies and will now be implementing it more strictly after the October 2 program launch by the prime minister. × WION: On single-use plastic ban, the prime minister said the move does not succeed unless you provide a viable alternative, your thoughts? Javadekar: The prime minister never talked about banning. To stop using single-use plastic is a public movement, it is a voluntary action. The problem is uncollected plastic waste below 50 microns, the thin bags are a major problem. Because for grocery shops or for buying vegetables also, people use those thin plastic bags. PM Modi says to use a cloth bag instead, it was being used earlier too. The bottles that get recycled are not a problem. The prime minister wants to change the habit of extra dependence on plastic. Let there be a public movement, let there be regulations to follow and then we can achieve the target of clean India also by addressing the last mile of waste management. WION: PM Modi also mentioned a global behavioural change. Do you believe that any of these roadmaps with leading economies of the world like us would not follow the actions? Like the US pulling out of the Paris accord and that has dealt a blow to global climate action. Javadekar: I don't know the records actually but ever since the US pulled out of the Paris accord, today was the first time when US President Donald Trump dropped in a UN meeting on climate and that too to listen to PM Modi. WION: Does that denote a change of heart? Javadekar: I don't know, but lets always be hopeful that things will change for the better. WION: Another point that was raised today was a disaster-resilient infrastructure. At a time when the global economy is under pressure if you talk about meeting emission norms, if you talk about pushing global climate action, it puts immense pressure on emerging economies like India. How do we balance with that? Javadekar: That is the real issue, therefore the role of finance and technology transfer, seamless technology transfer becomes more important. Because you should not profit from possible disaster or a certain disaster of climate change. So, technologies we can reduce emissions must be available to the world at an affordable cost. That's the point which we are raising. The last two days we were in a meeting for industrial transitions and low carbon path. That's very important. We need innovations and technologies to be cheaper, technologies to be affordable so that it is a win-win situation where you reduce the emissions and can still manage it effectively without increasing the price and without becoming uncompetitive in the markets. WION: The prime minister also linked it to the Indian tradition and called it a people's movement. Movements and policies succeed when there is a political push and political will. In recent general elections in India, talks of climate change were in the manifesto but it was not in front of any political parties' manifesto or agenda. Do you think the PM wants climate change as the central point for the political agenda as well? Javadekar: He is not setting the political agenda, what he is doing is taking India's legacy forward. We have a very good term in our tradition which is 'charachar srishti' which means flora and fauna becomes a family, that is what India's ethos is all about. We care about the environment, our theme is that the environment will give you enough but your greed cannot be fulfilled because we have limited resources - that is the message of the Indian culture. You know that the Bishnoi tribes in Rajasthan sacrificed their lives so that the trees could not be cut, that's a huge thing. WION: We know that Delhi, during Diwali, will become a gas chamber. Is the government going to do anything about it? Javadekar: We have already done 5 major things, therefore the good days - as far as clean air is considered - have increased and the number of bad air days has reduced. Point 2.5 and point 10 mg of dust particles have also reduced in the last 5 years because of our concentrated actions. Eastern peripheral expressway was completed by this government and therefore around 60,000 vehicles which use to pass through Delhi are now not coming to Delhi, which used to add great pollution to that extent. With respect to industrial pollution, there is an effective ban on industries and pollution, 24 hours monitoring, a new technology for bricks cleaning and many measures are in place so that industrial pollution is under check. For dust pollution, we came out with the construction management rule, the construction and waste demolition rule now has new factories also under the purview. We have already closed the Badarpur power plant and Rajghat power plant. We have already switched to BS-Vi fuel. Vehicles from April 1 will be BS-Vi compliant. Thousands of three-wheeler vehicles are already e-rikshaws. All this has had an impact on air pollution. Even in stubble burning, there is a reduction of 30 per cent because the central government has invested, state governments have invested, we are offering incentives so that they don't burn and use that for many other uses. So everything is going as per the plan. In November, yes, there is always a problem because we have windless and rainless winters. These are two naturals things which worsen the air quality, but we have at least accepted that there is a problem, we started AQI, the prime minister launched and we also established hundreds of air quality monitoring stations. We are doing localised experiments also. Everything is resulting favourably as far as Delhi's air pollution is concerned.

We're leading from the front on climate change: Prakash Javadekar tells WION

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Sunday said that the fundamentals of the economy were "good" and the "temporary" fall in GDP growth rate would come back on "track very soon".

"It is a little diversion. This is a temporary thing. It will come to track very soon," Javadekar said when asked how India will achieve the ambitious goal of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy with a low growth rate.

"Our fundamentals are good and we will march as per our plan and achieve our target of becoming the USD 5 trillion economy," he added.

Calling the GDP growth rate slump as "normal", Javadekar said that the slowdown is a cyclical process, and such a patch will not hurt the country's progress rate.

"Even during the UPA rule when the growth rate was about 7-8 per cent, there was a quarter when it fell to 5 per cent. This is not the case that it does not happen anywhere. Even big economies like the US face this," he told reporters.

The Minister said that the fundamentals of the economy were "good" and asserted that the ambitious goal will be achieved.

Javadekar was addressing the media on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government completing 100 days, after coming to power for a second consecutive term with a massive mandate.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Sunday said that the fundamentals of the economy were "good" and the "temporary" fall in GDP growth rate would come back on "track very soon".

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Sunday said that the fundamentals of the economy were "good" and the "temporary" fall in GDP growth rate would come back on "track very soon". "It is a little diversion. This is a temporary thing. It will come to track very soon," Javadekar said when asked how India will achieve the ambitious goal of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy with a low growth rate. "Our fundamentals are good and we will march as per our plan and achieve our target of becoming the USD 5 trillion economy," he added. Calling the GDP growth rate slump as "normal", Javadekar said that the slowdown is a cyclical process, and such a patch will not hurt the country's progress rate. "Even during the UPA rule when the growth rate was about 7-8 per cent, there was a quarter when it fell to 5 per cent. This is not the case that it does not happen anywhere. Even big economies like the US face this," he told reporters. The Minister said that the fundamentals of the economy were "good" and asserted that the ambitious goal will be achieved. Javadekar was addressing the media on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government completing 100 days, after coming to power for a second consecutive term with a massive mandate.

GDP growth rate slump is temporary: Prakash Javadekar

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Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday announced that the cabinet has approved 75 new medical colleges to be established in the country by the year 2022, which will create an additional 15,700 MBBS seats.

Javadekar was addressing the media at a cabinet briefing in Delhi.

"Under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we took several important decisions today. One of the decision was to approve 75 new medical colleges. It will cost around Rs 24 thousand crores and create an additional 15 thousand new seats in MBBS," the union minister said.

He said that these institutes will be set up in under-served areas where there are no medical colleges.

"In the last five years, over 45 thousand new seats have been created in MBBS and PG. This is the biggest ever expansion of medical education facilities throughout the world," Javadekar said.&nbsp;
</div>

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday announced that the cabinet has approved 75 new medical colleges to be established in the country by the year 2022, which will create an additional 15,700 MBBS seats.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday announced that the cabinet has approved 75 new medical colleges to be established in the country by the year 2022, which will create an additional 15,700 MBBS seats. Javadekar was addressing the media at a cabinet briefing in Delhi. "Under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we took several important decisions today. One of the decision was to approve 75 new medical colleges. It will cost around Rs 24 thousand crores and create an additional 15 thousand new seats in MBBS," the union minister said. He said that these institutes will be set up in under-served areas where there are no medical colleges. "In the last five years, over 45 thousand new seats have been created in MBBS and PG. This is the biggest ever expansion of medical education facilities throughout the world," Javadekar said.

Cabinet approves 75 new medical colleges to be established by 2022

Underlining that desertification is a worldwide problem, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that India will aim to convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land by 2030.

The minister made the comments ahead of the 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) which is slated to be held from September 2-13 in Greater Noida.

"Desertification is a worldwide problem directly affecting 250 million people and a third of the earth`s land surface. To fight this menace, India will convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land in the next 10 years. It will implement provisions of New Delhi Declaration which is to be adopted at the end of the conference," Javadekar told reporters in Delhi.

He said that a Centre for Excellence will be established at Dehradun.The minister also expressed India`s continued commitment to stay on track on a sustainable path to land use and land management.

"It is our collective responsibility to do our duty towards protecting the environment and ensuring that there is no harmful impact on it," Javadekar said.

Elaborating further on India`s key role as the President of UNCCD COP for the next two years, the minister said, "It is the common resolve of the world to combat desertification and India will lead from the front and move the world in a positive direction, taking into cognisance the support of other countries."

Delegates from 196 countries comprising of scientists and representatives of national and local governments, global business leaders, NGOs, gender-based organisations, youth groups, journalists, and faith and community groups will present and share their expertise and give an overview to achieve their goals at the 12-day event. 
&nbsp;

Underlining that desertification is a worldwide problem, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that India will aim to convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land by 2030.

Underlining that desertification is a worldwide problem, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that India will aim to convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land by 2030. The minister made the comments ahead of the 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) which is slated to be held from September 2-13 in Greater Noida. "Desertification is a worldwide problem directly affecting 250 million people and a third of the earth`s land surface. To fight this menace, India will convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land in the next 10 years. It will implement provisions of New Delhi Declaration which is to be adopted at the end of the conference," Javadekar told reporters in Delhi. He said that a Centre for Excellence will be established at Dehradun.The minister also expressed India`s continued commitment to stay on track on a sustainable path to land use and land management. "It is our collective responsibility to do our duty towards protecting the environment and ensuring that there is no harmful impact on it," Javadekar said. Elaborating further on India`s key role as the President of UNCCD COP for the next two years, the minister said, "It is the common resolve of the world to combat desertification and India will lead from the front and move the world in a positive direction, taking into cognisance the support of other countries." Delegates from 196 countries comprising of scientists and representatives of national and local governments, global business leaders, NGOs, gender-based organisations, youth groups, journalists, and faith and community groups will present and share their expertise and give an overview to achieve their goals at the 12-day event.

India pledges to restore 50 lakh hectares of degraded land by 2030: Javadekar

In a bid to boost India's relations with its neighbours, the government has signed agreements with Bangladesh and South Korea, under which Doordarshan India will be available in those countries, while their state channels will be shown on DD Free Dish.

The government has decided to show BTV World, a channel owned by Bangladesh TV, on the Doordarshan Free Dish which will be available for the viewers of Doordarshan in India, an official statement said.

At the same time, DD India would be made available in Bangladesh, it said.

"India has entered into an agreement with Bangladesh so that DD India will be shown on Bangladesh TV. In return, Bangladesh's official channel will also be available in India on DD Free Dish. DD Free dish is available in 35 million households," Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said.

The move is part of a robust cultural exchange in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Act East policy, he said.

The government has also approved the proposal of Prasar Bharati for making available the KBS World, an English 24x7 channel of the government of the Republic of South Korea on the DD Free Dish for the Indian viewers. Simultaneously, people of South Korea would be able to view DD India in their country.

The arrangement with Bangladesh is as a result of an MoU signed between Prasar Bharati and Bangladesh TV (BTV) May 7, 2019.

BTV World would be of special interest to the viewers of eastern India and the decision marks an important watershed moment in the strengthening of ties between the two countries, the statement said.

The pact comes after an earlier decision taken by the two governments to co-produce a film on Banga Bandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which will be directed by eminent film director/producer Shyam Benegal.

Talking about the World Yoga Day, Javadekar said the government's decision to honour media houses for their contribution towards promoting healthy living through yoga has been well received and several media houses had shown enthusiasm in promoting the ancient Indian practice.

Javadekar had earlier this month announced 33 awards -- 11 for each newspaper organisations, TV and radio channels. A six-member jury will consider the entries in all 23 official languages.

"This (yoga) has become a public movement in India. We declared one scheme for media houses that have been well received," he said.

"As far as yesterday's decision on a dance reality show is concerned, it has been well received by all sections of the society," Javadekar said, adding that psychologists and choreographers have lauded the move.

The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has asked all private satellite TV channels to avoid showing children in an indecent, suggestive and inappropriate manner in dance reality shows or other such programmes.

In a bid to boost India's relations with its neighbours, the government has signed agreements with Bangladesh and South Korea, under which Doordarshan India will be available in those countries, while their state channels will be shown on DD Free Dish.

In a bid to boost India's relations with its neighbours, the government has signed agreements with Bangladesh and South Korea, under which Doordarshan India will be available in those countries, while their state channels will be shown on DD Free Dish. The government has decided to show BTV World, a channel owned by Bangladesh TV, on the Doordarshan Free Dish which will be available for the viewers of Doordarshan in India, an official statement said. At the same time, DD India would be made available in Bangladesh, it said. "India has entered into an agreement with Bangladesh so that DD India will be shown on Bangladesh TV. In return, Bangladesh's official channel will also be available in India on DD Free Dish. DD Free dish is available in 35 million households," Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said. The move is part of a robust cultural exchange in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Act East policy, he said. The government has also approved the proposal of Prasar Bharati for making available the KBS World, an English 24x7 channel of the government of the Republic of South Korea on the DD Free Dish for the Indian viewers. Simultaneously, people of South Korea would be able to view DD India in their country. The arrangement with Bangladesh is as a result of an MoU signed between Prasar Bharati and Bangladesh TV (BTV) May 7, 2019. BTV World would be of special interest to the viewers of eastern India and the decision marks an important watershed moment in the strengthening of ties between the two countries, the statement said. The pact comes after an earlier decision taken by the two governments to co-produce a film on Banga Bandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which will be directed by eminent film director/producer Shyam Benegal. Talking about the World Yoga Day, Javadekar said the government's decision to honour media houses for their contribution towards promoting healthy living through yoga has been well received and several media houses had shown enthusiasm in promoting the ancient Indian practice. Javadekar had earlier this month announced 33 awards -- 11 for each newspaper organisations, TV and radio channels. A six-member jury will consider the entries in all 23 official languages. "This (yoga) has become a public movement in India. We declared one scheme for media houses that have been well received," he said. "As far as yesterday's decision on a dance reality show is concerned, it has been well received by all sections of the society," Javadekar said, adding that psychologists and choreographers have lauded the move. The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has asked all private satellite TV channels to avoid showing children in an indecent, suggestive and inappropriate manner in dance reality shows or other such programmes.

DD India to be available in Bangladesh, South Korea

Air quality in Delhi-NCR has improved and the number of days with "bad" air quality has come down by 33 per cent, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said Thursday.

Speaking at an event to mark World Environment Day, which was on June 5, the minister said the situation "is not as bad" as being portrayed in the media.

"Media reports are always creating a picture that lakhs of people are dying of air pollution but it is not as bad. Yes pollution is there but efforts are on," Javadekar said.

"Number of poor air quality days in Delhi in 2016 used to be 246, and in 2014 they used to be around 300, in 2017 it came down to 213 and now it has come down to 206. I am confident that when 2019 figures will come, the number of poor air quality days will further come down. This is a tremendous success. The days of poor quality air have reduced. It is a significant improvement," he said.

He also said that the number of days with 'moderate' to 'good' air quality has increased from 108 in 2016 to 159 in 2018.

"Moderate to good days have increased. 108 days of moderate air quality in 2016 have increased to 152 in 2017 and now they have gone up to 159 days.&nbsp; 
This progress in good air days are the result of concerted efforts of last four years for the capital and NCR," he said, adding that air quality monitoring systems which record the air quality index (AQI) show improvement in air quality.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

Calling for people's participation, the minister said that just wearing masks will not help and every individual has to act responsibly towards environment.

"Just wearing masks won't help. People have to actively participate and act responsible towards environment. We have to save water and electricity, take cycle for distance up to two km, use public transport, maintain vehicles. All these activities will help reduce pollution. We will do better," he said at the event on the theme of 'Beat Air Pollution'.

In his address, Minister of State for Environment Babul Supriyo urged people to use car pool at least once in a week to contribute to the cause of environment and "not be afraid of the alarming figures in the war against pollution".

He also said the ministry has now become a 24-hour working ministry as his senior minister wakes up at 4 am and he sleeps at 4 am.

"With my inclusion in this ministry, it has become a 24-hour ministry because my minister (Javadekar) wakes up at 4 am and I sleep at 4 am," he said.

He said there was a lot that needs to be done for the environment and referred to his daughter's WhatsApp group saying they had a lot of ideas to protect environment.

"My daughter studies in Bombay and she has a WhatsApp group to which I was added and I am amazed to see the ideas they all come up with to protect the planet," he said.

The event was attended by several senior officials of the ministry of environment, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) chairman S P S Parihar and officials from several state pollution control boards.

During the event, MoUs were signed between IITs across the country and respective state pollution control boards for joint efforts in combating air pollution.

The ministry also released several publications, including Orchids of India by Botanical Survey of India which identified over 700 species of orchids in the country.

Another book - Plant Discoveries - was released in which 438 plant species have been added to the Indian flora in 2018.

"I want to congratulate Botanical Survey of India and those who have identified 438 species of plants. I also congratulate the Zoological Survey of India for identifying 179 new species and I appreciate their research. National Tiger Conservation Authority has also made an immense contribution in tiger conservation," Javadekar said.&nbsp;

Air quality in Delhi-NCR has improved and the number of days with "bad" air quality has come down by 33 per cent, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said Thursday.

Air quality in Delhi-NCR has improved and the number of days with "bad" air quality has come down by 33 per cent, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said Thursday. Speaking at an event to mark World Environment Day, which was on June 5, the minister said the situation "is not as bad" as being portrayed in the media. "Media reports are always creating a picture that lakhs of people are dying of air pollution but it is not as bad. Yes pollution is there but efforts are on," Javadekar said. "Number of poor air quality days in Delhi in 2016 used to be 246, and in 2014 they used to be around 300, in 2017 it came down to 213 and now it has come down to 206. I am confident that when 2019 figures will come, the number of poor air quality days will further come down. This is a tremendous success. The days of poor quality air have reduced. It is a significant improvement," he said. He also said that the number of days with 'moderate' to 'good' air quality has increased from 108 in 2016 to 159 in 2018. "Moderate to good days have increased. 108 days of moderate air quality in 2016 have increased to 152 in 2017 and now they have gone up to 159 days. This progress in good air days are the result of concerted efforts of last four years for the capital and NCR," he said, adding that air quality monitoring systems which record the air quality index (AQI) show improvement in air quality. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. Calling for people's participation, the minister said that just wearing masks will not help and every individual has to act responsibly towards environment. "Just wearing masks won't help. People have to actively participate and act responsible towards environment. We have to save water and electricity, take cycle for distance up to two km, use public transport, maintain vehicles. All these activities will help reduce pollution. We will do better," he said at the event on the theme of 'Beat Air Pollution'. In his address, Minister of State for Environment Babul Supriyo urged people to use car pool at least once in a week to contribute to the cause of environment and "not be afraid of the alarming figures in the war against pollution". He also said the ministry has now become a 24-hour working ministry as his senior minister wakes up at 4 am and he sleeps at 4 am. "With my inclusion in this ministry, it has become a 24-hour ministry because my minister (Javadekar) wakes up at 4 am and I sleep at 4 am," he said. He said there was a lot that needs to be done for the environment and referred to his daughter's WhatsApp group saying they had a lot of ideas to protect environment. "My daughter studies in Bombay and she has a WhatsApp group to which I was added and I am amazed to see the ideas they all come up with to protect the planet," he said. The event was attended by several senior officials of the ministry of environment, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) chairman S P S Parihar and officials from several state pollution control boards. During the event, MoUs were signed between IITs across the country and respective state pollution control boards for joint efforts in combating air pollution. The ministry also released several publications, including Orchids of India by Botanical Survey of India which identified over 700 species of orchids in the country. Another book - Plant Discoveries - was released in which 438 plant species have been added to the Indian flora in 2018. "I want to congratulate Botanical Survey of India and those who have identified 438 species of plants. I also congratulate the Zoological Survey of India for identifying 179 new species and I appreciate their research. National Tiger Conservation Authority has also made an immense contribution in tiger conservation," Javadekar said.

Delhi's 'bad air' days down by 33%: Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar

The new government at the Centre will retain the autonomy of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prasar-bharati-ceo-dismisses-reports-on-stand-off-with-ib-ministry-34666">Prasar Bharati</a>, Information and Broadcasting Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-take-elections-seriously-not-rahul-gandhi-prakash-javadekar-to-wion-210848">Prakash Javadekar</a> said on Monday.

It was established through an act which safeguards its autonomy, he said after launching state-of-the-art high-definition DSNG vans at Doordarshan Bhawan here.

"Autonomy of the Prasar Bharati is important. We will retain it, we want Prasar Bharati to work smoothly and bring new programmes and find new dimensions," Javadekar said.

The minister lauded public broadcasters DD and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/all-india-radio-to-air-baloch-news-bulletin-5797">All India Radio (AIR)</a> for their credible programmes and coverage and asked officials to promote channels like DD Bharati.

He said the new vans will help DD in the collection of high-quality visuals from the outdoor spots.

DD News has acquired 17 high definition DSNG vans which are capable of transmitting signal in HD and multi-camera production.

Prasar Bharati Chairman Suryaprakash said the public broadcaster is moving ahead in the direction of "Sabka Vishwas" policy propounded by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/narendra-modis-second-term-spells-foreign-policy-continuity-224063">Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</a>

Information and Broadcasting Secretary Amit Khare said a three-year plan has been prepared to develop infrastructure of Prasar Bharati with Rs 10,054 crore expenditure.

"There are many channels in the country which claim to be the fastest but DD and AIR command the highest credibility," he said.

The DD and AIR&nbsp;have the highest numbers of viewers and listeners in the country, he added.

The new government at the Centre will retain the autonomy of Prasar Bharati, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said on Monday. It was established through an act which safeguards its autonomy, he said after launching state-of-the-art high-definition DSNG vans at Doordarshan Bhawan here.

The new government at the Centre will retain the autonomy of Prasar Bharati, Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said on Monday. It was established through an act which safeguards its autonomy, he said after launching state-of-the-art high-definition DSNG vans at Doordarshan Bhawan here. "Autonomy of the Prasar Bharati is important. We will retain it, we want Prasar Bharati to work smoothly and bring new programmes and find new dimensions," Javadekar said. The minister lauded public broadcasters DD and All India Radio (AIR) for their credible programmes and coverage and asked officials to promote channels like DD Bharati. He said the new vans will help DD in the collection of high-quality visuals from the outdoor spots. DD News has acquired 17 high definition DSNG vans which are capable of transmitting signal in HD and multi-camera production. Prasar Bharati Chairman Suryaprakash said the public broadcaster is moving ahead in the direction of "Sabka Vishwas" policy propounded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Information and Broadcasting Secretary Amit Khare said a three-year plan has been prepared to develop infrastructure of Prasar Bharati with Rs 10,054 crore expenditure. "There are many channels in the country which claim to be the fastest but DD and AIR command the highest credibility," he said. The DD and AIR have the highest numbers of viewers and listeners in the country, he added.

New government to retain autonomy of Prasar Bharati: Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar

Joining ranks with the recent protests over the pan-India three language formula proposed in the draft National Education Policy 2019, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena on Sunday spoke against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/india-is-not-hindi-speaking-states-alone-dmk-chief-mk-stalin-221665">enforcement of Hindi asserting </a>that it is not their mother tongue.

The official Twitter handle of MNS, quoted state leader and spokesperson Anil Shidore as stating "Hindi is not our mother tongue, do not enforce it on us and incite us."

On Friday, a huge controversy broke out in Tamil Nadu over the three language formula with political parties warning a language war over "attempts" to impose Hindi, even as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/india-is-not-hindi-speaking-states-alone-dmk-chief-mk-stalin-221665">Centre stepped in to say that there was no intention</a> to impose any language on anyone.

However, as the controversy snowballed, the Centre dismissed apprehensions on the issue and said there was no move to impose any language on anyone.

"Only a report has been submitted on the new education policy. Government has not taken any decision on it. It has not even considered it and therefore the misunderstanding that the government has decided on the new education policy is not true," Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar told the media.

"After we will get the public feedback, then only it will come up before the government. More importantly, the Modi government has always promoted all Indian languages and therefore there is no case of or intention of imposing any language on anybody. We want to promote all Indian languages," he said.

The draft of New Education Policy prepared by the Kasturirangan Committee was released on Friday, which spoke of the continuation of three-language formula in the schools.&nbsp;

Joining ranks with the recent protests over the pan-India three language formula proposed in the draft National Education Policy 2019, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena on Sunday spoke against enforcement of Hindi asserting that it is not their mother tongue.

Joining ranks with the recent protests over the pan-India three language formula proposed in the draft National Education Policy 2019, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena on Sunday spoke against enforcement of Hindi asserting that it is not their mother tongue. The official Twitter handle of MNS, quoted state leader and spokesperson Anil Shidore as stating "Hindi is not our mother tongue, do not enforce it on us and incite us." On Friday, a huge controversy broke out in Tamil Nadu over the three language formula with political parties warning a language war over "attempts" to impose Hindi, even as the Centre stepped in to say that there was no intention to impose any language on anyone. However, as the controversy snowballed, the Centre dismissed apprehensions on the issue and said there was no move to impose any language on anyone. "Only a report has been submitted on the new education policy. Government has not taken any decision on it. It has not even considered it and therefore the misunderstanding that the government has decided on the new education policy is not true," Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar told the media. "After we will get the public feedback, then only it will come up before the government. More importantly, the Modi government has always promoted all Indian languages and therefore there is no case of or intention of imposing any language on anybody. We want to promote all Indian languages," he said. The draft of New Education Policy prepared by the Kasturirangan Committee was released on Friday, which spoke of the continuation of three-language formula in the schools.

Hindi not our mother tongue, don't enforce it on us: Raj Thackeray's MNS party on centre's draft education plan

He was the Human Resources Development minister in the previous Union government cabinet. He initially served as Minister of State (independent charge) in the Environment Ministry for two years, and was appointed HRD Minister in 2016.

Prakash Javadekar takes charge of India's Environment Ministry

Dr. Harsh Vardhan and Prakash Javadekar take oath as minister. To know more watch the video

Dr. Harsh Vardhan and Prakash Javadekar take oath as minister

In Phase 5 of Lok Sabha Election 2019 voting held at 51 seats of 7 states. Now 118 seats are up for grab in the last two phases. Sporadic incidents of violence also reported at West Bengal in Phase 5. Voting for 424 constituencies is over so far.

India Election Watch: Complete highlights of Phase 5 of Lok Sabha Election 2019

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections.

The union HRD minister also exuded confidence that the BJP will, on its own, win more seats than in 2014 and the NDA will get a two-thirds majority in polls.

After two phases of polls, the BJP is very certain of its landslide victory. "We will improve our tally of 2014 and will cross 300 mark on our own and NDA will have two-thirds majority. We are receiving people's support in all states across the country and the opposition is completely nervous, they are facing imminent defeat and therefore they are reacting the way they are"&nbsp;he said.

Oopposition parties were complaining against EVM machines which shows their fear of defeat, he said.

"They know they are going to be defeated so from today only they are preparing ground and finding some excuses for their defeat. This is what Congress and opposition is all about. We are very confident that people are responding to Modi's leadership and they want Modi to be PM again"&nbsp;he said.

CM Gehlot has said in his public rallies that democracy and the Constitution are under "threat" under Modi rule and elections may not happen if he comes to power again.

Accusing Congress leaders of hurling abuses and making casteist remarks, Javadekar demanded the Election Commission take notice of such comments.

"In Rajasthan also, CM Ashok Gehlot is making casteist remarks against the President of the county. The Election Commission must take notice of it because never in the history, the president of India has been brought in the election discussion. It was Congress which brought him and specifying his caste is not only unethical but illegal also",&nbsp;he said.

When asked whether the BJP will file a complaint, the minister said the party's state unit has forwarded all relevant clippings to the party's legal cell in New Delhi.

Javadekar said the BJP (and its alliance party RLP which is contesting on one seat of Nagaur) will win all the seats in the state.&nbsp;

Rajasthan has 25 Lok Sabha seats and the BJP is contesting on 24 seats and has given one seat to RLP headed by MLA Hanuman Beniwal, who himself is contesting as RLP candidate on Nagaur seat.&nbsp;

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections.

Rubbishing opposition charge that democracy was under threat in BJP rule, Union minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the Congress was making such remarks as it has shrunk to a "fringe party" from a mainstream party and has no chance in future elections. The union HRD minister also exuded confidence that the BJP will, on its own, win more seats than in 2014 and the NDA will get a two-thirds majority in polls. After two phases of polls, the BJP is very certain of its landslide victory. "We will improve our tally of 2014 and will cross 300 mark on our own and NDA will have two-thirds majority. We are receiving people's support in all states across the country and the opposition is completely nervous, they are facing imminent defeat and therefore they are reacting the way they are" he said. Oopposition parties were complaining against EVM machines which shows their fear of defeat, he said. "They know they are going to be defeated so from today only they are preparing ground and finding some excuses for their defeat. This is what Congress and opposition is all about. We are very confident that people are responding to Modi's leadership and they want Modi to be PM again" he said. CM Gehlot has said in his public rallies that democracy and the Constitution are under "threat" under Modi rule and elections may not happen if he comes to power again. Accusing Congress leaders of hurling abuses and making casteist remarks, Javadekar demanded the Election Commission take notice of such comments. "In Rajasthan also, CM Ashok Gehlot is making casteist remarks against the President of the county. The Election Commission must take notice of it because never in the history, the president of India has been brought in the election discussion. It was Congress which brought him and specifying his caste is not only unethical but illegal also", he said. When asked whether the BJP will file a complaint, the minister said the party's state unit has forwarded all relevant clippings to the party's legal cell in New Delhi. Javadekar said the BJP (and its alliance party RLP which is contesting on one seat of Nagaur) will win all the seats in the state. Rajasthan has 25 Lok Sabha seats and the BJP is contesting on 24 seats and has given one seat to RLP headed by MLA Hanuman Beniwal, who himself is contesting as RLP candidate on Nagaur seat.

Congress has become a fringe party, siding with tukde tukde gang: Javadekar

In the interview Prakash Javadekar said, ''We are going to do very well in Rajasthan'' Watch complete video to know more.

Watch exclusive interview of HRD Minister & MP Prakash Javadekar

Union minister Prakash Javadekar has said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi will lose Lok Sabha elections from Amethi and this is the reason why he chose to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-files-nomination-from-wayanad-parliamentary-constituency-207840">contest from Kerala's Wayanad</a> too.

"Legally and as per the practice strategy, anyone can fight from two constituencies. The issue is not that he is fighting from Wayanad, the issue is why he has ran away from Amethi. Because we won all the panchayat elections, zilla parishad elections and other major elections in the last five years. Also, Smriti Irani has worked hard. So the people are with us. Amethi has defeated his uncle Sanjay Gandhi and I'm absolutely sure that Rahul Gandhi will lose from Amethi," Javadekar told WION.

When asked about Congress general secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-with-congress-tight-lipped-about-varanasi-candidate-speculations-pit-priyanka-gandhi-against-pm-modi-in-his-home-constituency-210397">Priyanka Gandhi Vadra</a>'s entry into mainstream politics, the Union HRD minister said, "She can fight elections from anywhere. She has campaigned in last three general elections but could not achieve desired results." Javadekar also said that the BJP takes elections far more seriously than Rahul Gandhi.

Javadekar, who is also the in-charge of Rajasthan, said that like 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP will sweep all 25 seats in the state. The senior minister said that reverses faced by BJP in assembly will not affect the general elections as issues are different today. He said that in 1999, the BJP and Samajwadi Party alliance did very well in Lok Sabha elections but lost the government in Maharashtra as people cast their votes differently for the Centre and the state.

He insisted that the BJP will increase its tally in the Lok Sabha and also refused to give much credence to BSP-SP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh.

Javadekar admitted that nationalism has indeed become an issue in the Lok Sabha elections "but it does not mean that BJP has given up on sabka saath sabka vikas". "Economic progress remains central to BJP manifesto, but India requires a terror free environment to develop. Narendra Modi has provided that environment," he said. Javadekar also said that elections of 2019 will give a clear mandate to Narendra Modi as there is no other leader who stands as tall as him.

Speaking on issues such as Articles 370 and 35(A), which grant special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Javadekar said that BJP has not changed its ideological position on these two issues for the last 50 years.

"As the mandate was fractured in Jammu and Kashmir, we decided to experiment, but we parted ways when we felt that we will have to compromise on core issues. People in India want Jammu and Kashmir to be treated like any other state," he said.

He also said that NDA is opposed to restoration on pre-1953 status and would oppose it at any cost. The demand made by some Jammu and Kashmir parties, including the National Conference, talks about greater autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir which is vehemently opposed by BJP.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar has said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi will lose Lok Sabha elections from Amethi and this is the reason why he chose to contest from Kerala's Wayanad too.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar has said that Congress president Rahul Gandhi will lose Lok Sabha elections from Amethi and this is the reason why he chose to contest from Kerala's Wayanad too. "Legally and as per the practice strategy, anyone can fight from two constituencies. The issue is not that he is fighting from Wayanad, the issue is why he has ran away from Amethi. Because we won all the panchayat elections, zilla parishad elections and other major elections in the last five years. Also, Smriti Irani has worked hard. So the people are with us. Amethi has defeated his uncle Sanjay Gandhi and I'm absolutely sure that Rahul Gandhi will lose from Amethi," Javadekar told WION. When asked about Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into mainstream politics, the Union HRD minister said, "She can fight elections from anywhere. She has campaigned in last three general elections but could not achieve desired results." Javadekar also said that the BJP takes elections far more seriously than Rahul Gandhi. Javadekar, who is also the in-charge of Rajasthan, said that like 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP will sweep all 25 seats in the state. The senior minister said that reverses faced by BJP in assembly will not affect the general elections as issues are different today. He said that in 1999, the BJP and Samajwadi Party alliance did very well in Lok Sabha elections but lost the government in Maharashtra as people cast their votes differently for the Centre and the state. He insisted that the BJP will increase its tally in the Lok Sabha and also refused to give much credence to BSP-SP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh. Javadekar admitted that nationalism has indeed become an issue in the Lok Sabha elections "but it does not mean that BJP has given up on sabka saath sabka vikas". "Economic progress remains central to BJP manifesto, but India requires a terror free environment to develop. Narendra Modi has provided that environment," he said. Javadekar also said that elections of 2019 will give a clear mandate to Narendra Modi as there is no other leader who stands as tall as him. Speaking on issues such as Articles 370 and 35(A), which grant special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Javadekar said that BJP has not changed its ideological position on these two issues for the last 50 years. "As the mandate was fractured in Jammu and Kashmir, we decided to experiment, but we parted ways when we felt that we will have to compromise on core issues. People in India want Jammu and Kashmir to be treated like any other state," he said. He also said that NDA is opposed to restoration on pre-1953 status and would oppose it at any cost. The demand made by some Jammu and Kashmir parties, including the National Conference, talks about greater autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir which is vehemently opposed by BJP.

We take elections seriously, not Rahul Gandhi: Prakash Javadekar to WION

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-sends-nirav-modi-extradition-request-to-court-enforcement-directorate-202187">Nirav Modi in London</a>, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday.

“The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London. It, however, does not know that the Indian government’s efforts are on to bring him back to India,” Javadekar told ANI.

He said that Indian government’s requests for the extradition of economic offenders have been acted upon earlier as well, and gave the example of Rajiv Saxena, Christian Michel, and Deepak Talwar to bring home his point.

“All these economic offenders ran away as soon as the BJP came to power at the Centre under the leadership of Narendra Modi. They knew that they won’t be spared by the BJP government. Till the time Congress was in power, they knew that their loot will continue,” he said.

“I want to ask the Congress leaders—What is their relationship with Nirav Modi? One day Rahul Gandhi goes to a programme organised by Nirav Modi, and next day he gets a loan from the Allahabad Bank,” Javadekar said.

Union Minister Javadekar’s reaction comes in response to the reports in British media that Nirav Modi is living in London.

The British newspaper story reveals that Modi has also started a new diamond business in Soho.

The newspaper headlined its piece—‘Exclusive: India’s most wanted man Nirav Modi—accused of £1.5 billion fraud—living openly in London.’

The video shows Nirav Modi sporting a handle-bar moustache and wearing an expensive jacket, repeatedly saying “no comments” to a series of questions put to him by the newspaper’s reporter, including whether he has sought asylum in the United Kingdom.

Modi is the subject of an extradition request by India, along with an Interpol Red Corner Notice issued for the PNB scam accused.

He is the prime accused in Rs 13,000 crore PNB fraud, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, who has got the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda.

Modi and Choksi left India in January last year before the PNB scam was exposed.The duo has not returned to India despite repeated summons from the probe agencies and courts to be put on trial.

“Journalists of The Telegraph managed to track down Nirav Modi. Why was the Modi Govt unable to do so? Who is Modi trying to protect? Himself, Nirav Modi or the people who let him escape?" the Congress tweeted on its official handle.

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire Nirav Modi in London, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday. “The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London.

The Congress party is happy seeing fugitive billionaire Nirav Modi in London, said Union Minister Prakash Javadekar in Jaipur on Saturday. “The Congress party, which has reared up Nirav Modi, feels happy to see that he is fine in London. It, however, does not know that the Indian government’s efforts are on to bring him back to India,” Javadekar told ANI. He said that Indian government’s requests for the extradition of economic offenders have been acted upon earlier as well, and gave the example of Rajiv Saxena, Christian Michel, and Deepak Talwar to bring home his point. “All these economic offenders ran away as soon as the BJP came to power at the Centre under the leadership of Narendra Modi. They knew that they won’t be spared by the BJP government. Till the time Congress was in power, they knew that their loot will continue,” he said. “I want to ask the Congress leaders—What is their relationship with Nirav Modi? One day Rahul Gandhi goes to a programme organised by Nirav Modi, and next day he gets a loan from the Allahabad Bank,” Javadekar said. Union Minister Javadekar’s reaction comes in response to the reports in British media that Nirav Modi is living in London. The British newspaper story reveals that Modi has also started a new diamond business in Soho. The newspaper headlined its piece—‘Exclusive: India’s most wanted man Nirav Modi—accused of £1.5 billion fraud—living openly in London.’ The video shows Nirav Modi sporting a handle-bar moustache and wearing an expensive jacket, repeatedly saying “no comments” to a series of questions put to him by the newspaper’s reporter, including whether he has sought asylum in the United Kingdom. Modi is the subject of an extradition request by India, along with an Interpol Red Corner Notice issued for the PNB scam accused. He is the prime accused in Rs 13,000 crore PNB fraud, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, who has got the citizenship of Antigua and Barbuda. Modi and Choksi left India in January last year before the PNB scam was exposed.The duo has not returned to India despite repeated summons from the probe agencies and courts to be put on trial. “Journalists of The Telegraph managed to track down Nirav Modi. Why was the Modi Govt unable to do so? Who is Modi trying to protect? Himself, Nirav Modi or the people who let him escape?" the Congress tweeted on its official handle.

Congress is happy seeing Nirav Modi in London: Prakash Javadekar

Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday denied reports of any assault on Kashmiri students following the Pulwama terror attack and said there is no threat to students from the Valley.&nbsp;

Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district on February 14 when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus.

Javadekar told reporters, “There is no threat to Kashmiri students as it is being made out to be. Countrymen are angry because of the Pulwama attack but no Kashmiri student has been assaulted following that.&nbsp;

While several Kashmiri students from different cities have been slapped with sedition charges for allegedly supporting the Pulwama terror attack, two colleges in Dehradun have decided not to admit those from the Valley, with students saying they were in a state of fear after the incident.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration Monday asked students outside the state to not pay heed to any rumours and try to stay put at their respective places.&nbsp;

The Home Ministry on Saturday issued an advisory to all states and Union territories to take measures to ensure the safety and security of Kashmiris.

The advisory had come hours after Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured an all-party meeting of doing the needful for the protection of the Kashmiri students and people who were allegedly threatened after the terrorist attack.

Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday denied reports of any assault on Kashmiri students following the Pulwama terror attack and said there is no threat to students from the Valley.

Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday denied reports of any assault on Kashmiri students following the Pulwama terror attack and said there is no threat to students from the Valley. Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama district on February 14 when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus. Javadekar told reporters, “There is no threat to Kashmiri students as it is being made out to be. Countrymen are angry because of the Pulwama attack but no Kashmiri student has been assaulted following that. While several Kashmiri students from different cities have been slapped with sedition charges for allegedly supporting the Pulwama terror attack, two colleges in Dehradun have decided not to admit those from the Valley, with students saying they were in a state of fear after the incident. The Jammu and Kashmir administration Monday asked students outside the state to not pay heed to any rumours and try to stay put at their respective places. The Home Ministry on Saturday issued an advisory to all states and Union territories to take measures to ensure the safety and security of Kashmiris. The advisory had come hours after Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured an all-party meeting of doing the needful for the protection of the Kashmiri students and people who were allegedly threatened after the terrorist attack.

Prakash Javadekar rules out any threat to students from Kashmir Valley

Defending the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ayodhya-dispute-centre-moves-to-supreme-court-seeks-excess-land-be-returned-to-ramjanambhoomi-nyas-193587"> government's plea in the Supreme Court</a> to return excess land acquired by it in Ayodhya to their original owners, the BJP on Tuesday said the Centre is not touching the disputed area.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters it would be up to Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas what it does with the land returned to it and the government would not interfere in that.

The Centre on Tuesday moved the Supreme Court seeking its permission to return the excess or superfluous land around the disputed Ram Janambhoomi Babri Masjid site to original owners, including the Nyas.

"Government is not touching the disputed land," news agency PTI quoted Javadakar as saying at a press conference hours after the government filed its plea in the apex court.

Javadekar also said that "PM had clarified that people want temple but the matter is sub-judice and measures will be taken accordingly", adding that today's application is also a legal decision.

"Whatever legal measure is required, BJP will try for that. PM had clarified that people want temple the but matter is sub-judice and measures will be taken accordingly. Today's application is also a legal decision," he said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
P Javadekar,BJP: BJP always maintained Ram temple be built on Ram janmabhoomi.Whatever legal measure is required,BJP will try for that. PM had clarified that ppl want temple but matter is sub-judice&amp;measures will be taken accordingly. Today's application is also a legal decision. <a href="https://t.co/pCC6fCsluE">pic.twitter.com/pCC6fCsluE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1090206455855284225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Javadekar then attacked Congress party saying that it always "tries to block the process" and senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the "matter only after July is evident to that."

"Congress always tries to block the process. Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the matter only after July'19 is evident to that. They don't believe in Ram. Affidavit submitted by the then Congress government on Ram Setu called it imaginary" Javadekar said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
P Javadekar on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RamTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RamTemple</a>: Congress always tries to block the process.Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the matter only after July'19 is evident to that.They don't believe in Ram.Affidavit submitted by the then Congress govt on Ram Setu called it imaginary <a href="https://t.co/yj3PuUqQ2w">pic.twitter.com/yj3PuUqQ2w</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1090208665544605697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from news agencies)

&nbsp;

Defending the government's plea in the Supreme Court to return excess land acquired by it in Ayodhya to their original owners, the BJP on Tuesday said the Centre is not touching the disputed area.

Defending the government's plea in the Supreme Court to return excess land acquired by it in Ayodhya to their original owners, the BJP on Tuesday said the Centre is not touching the disputed area. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar told reporters it would be up to Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas what it does with the land returned to it and the government would not interfere in that. The Centre on Tuesday moved the Supreme Court seeking its permission to return the excess or superfluous land around the disputed Ram Janambhoomi Babri Masjid site to original owners, including the Nyas. "Government is not touching the disputed land," news agency PTI quoted Javadakar as saying at a press conference hours after the government filed its plea in the apex court. Javadekar also said that "PM had clarified that people want temple but the matter is sub-judice and measures will be taken accordingly", adding that today's application is also a legal decision. "Whatever legal measure is required, BJP will try for that. PM had clarified that people want temple the but matter is sub-judice and measures will be taken accordingly. Today's application is also a legal decision," he said. P Javadekar,BJP: BJP always maintained Ram temple be built on Ram janmabhoomi.Whatever legal measure is required,BJP will try for that. PM had clarified that ppl want temple but matter is sub-judice&measures will be taken accordingly. Today's application is also a legal decision. pic.twitter.com/pCC6fCsluE — ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2019 × Javadekar then attacked Congress party saying that it always "tries to block the process" and senior Congress leader Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the "matter only after July is evident to that." "Congress always tries to block the process. Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the matter only after July'19 is evident to that. They don't believe in Ram. Affidavit submitted by the then Congress government on Ram Setu called it imaginary" Javadekar said. P Javadekar on #RamTemple: Congress always tries to block the process.Kapil Sibal's argument of allotting a date for hearing in the matter only after July'19 is evident to that.They don't believe in Ram.Affidavit submitted by the then Congress govt on Ram Setu called it imaginary pic.twitter.com/yj3PuUqQ2w — ANI (@ANI) January 29, 2019 × (With inputs from news agencies)

Government not touching disputed land: BJP on Centre's plea in Supreme Court on Ayodhya

The HRD Ministry announced Tuesday that it will implement 10 per cent reservation for economically weaker section of the general category from the 2019 academic session and increase around 25 per cent seats in higher educational institutions and universities across the country.

Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar informed that the decision was taken at a meeting of officials from the ministry, University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE).

"The reservation will be implemented from the 2019-2020 academic session itself. Nearly 25 per cent seats will be added to ensure that the reservation does not disturb the existing quota for SC, ST and other categories. There are around 40,000 colleges and 900 universities across the country and supernumerary quota will be provided in these," Javadekar told reporters.

The minister, however, did not specify the number of seats which will be added.

"The modalities are being worked out and within a week's time, we will have the exact number of seats that will be added. The operation manuals about how to implement the quota will be issued soon. The colleges and universities will also be asked to mention the quota in their prospectus as well and make infrastructural arrangements accordingly," he added.

Javadekar also said that the private universities are also ready to implement the quota.

The Rajya Sabha on January 9 approved amending the Constitution to provide 10 per cent reservation to general category poor in jobs and education, with the government terming the landmark move as "slog over sixes".

The quota will be over and above the existing 50 per cent reservation to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).&nbsp;

The HRD Ministry announced Tuesday that it will implement 10 per cent reservation for economically weaker section of the general category from the 2019 academic session and increase around 25 per cent seats in higher educational institutions and universities across the country.

The HRD Ministry announced Tuesday that it will implement 10 per cent reservation for economically weaker section of the general category from the 2019 academic session and increase around 25 per cent seats in higher educational institutions and universities across the country. Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar informed that the decision was taken at a meeting of officials from the ministry, University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE). "The reservation will be implemented from the 2019-2020 academic session itself. Nearly 25 per cent seats will be added to ensure that the reservation does not disturb the existing quota for SC, ST and other categories. There are around 40,000 colleges and 900 universities across the country and supernumerary quota will be provided in these," Javadekar told reporters. The minister, however, did not specify the number of seats which will be added. "The modalities are being worked out and within a week's time, we will have the exact number of seats that will be added. The operation manuals about how to implement the quota will be issued soon. The colleges and universities will also be asked to mention the quota in their prospectus as well and make infrastructural arrangements accordingly," he added. Javadekar also said that the private universities are also ready to implement the quota. The Rajya Sabha on January 9 approved amending the Constitution to provide 10 per cent reservation to general category poor in jobs and education, with the government terming the landmark move as "slog over sixes". The quota will be over and above the existing 50 per cent reservation to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

HRD to increase nearly 25% seats in varsities to implement 10% quota for general category

Union minister Prakash Javadekar Sunday said Congress leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ravi-shankar-prasad-hits-out-at-shashi-tharoor-over-shiv-linga-remarks-174058">Shashi Tharoor's remark on Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and Shiv Linga reflected the party's mentality which had become evident when former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi dubbed the opposition a "scorpion" in 1984 polls.

He also accused the Congress of "indirectly supporting" Maoists and said the BJP governments at the Centre and in Chhattisgarh, where elections would be held next month, were determined to finish the Naxal menace in the coming years.

No Congress leader was available for comments.

"When Chhattisgarh was formed and the Congress was in power in the state, Naxalism was at its peak. Now it has come down to one-third of the total area which was in control of Naxalites earlier," the human resource development minister said in a press conference in Raipur.

Javadekar criticised Tharoor for his reported remark Saturday in which he claimed that an unnamed RSS source had told a journalist that "Prime Minister Modi was like a scorpion sitting on a Shiv Linga who cannot be removed by hand or hit with a chappal (slipper)".

When asked about the remark, Javadekar said, "The Congress is wondering on how to take on Modi at the political level and therefore it has resorted to abusing. Rahul baba keeps on abusing daily. People will do only those things which they know. Shashi Tharoor is a bit sophisticated but he has also come down to the 'bichhu' remark."

"This was the Congress' advertisement in 1984. Rajiv Gandhi had brought this advertisement of calling the opposition a scorpion in the 1984 elections. It reflects the mentality of Congress," the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leader claimed.

On Naxalism, he said 350 ultras were gunned down in the last five years in Chhattisgarh.

"Not only that, around 5,000 misguided tribals have surrendered while thousands of Naxals have been arrested," he said.

Hitting back at Congress leader Abhishek Manu Sanghvi who Sunday accused the Chhattisgarh government of being weak in tackling Naxalism, Javadekar said on the contrary the menace was at its peak during the Congress' rule in Chhattisgarh between 2000 and 2003.

"The Congress gave birth to Naxalism and it is the party which has encouraged it. The senior Congress leader indirectly supports Maoists. The party had appointed overground supporters of Maoist to the planning commission. It is the record of the Congress," he alleged.

Accusing the Congress of adopting "double standards", Javadekar alleged the party had backed overground supporters of Maoists.

"Their sympathy towards Maoist is not hidden. No decisive action was taken by the previous UPA government against Naxals. However, the action has been taken against Maoists since the last four years under Modi government and very soon the menace will be neutralised," he claimed.

"Chhattisgarh will be free from Maoist activities in the next three years. We are determined to finish the Maoist challenge in the next couple of years which is totally violent and undemocratic. Our policy is clear," the minister said.

Slamming Tharoor, Javadekar said the Congress leader had recently said Ram Mandir should not be built in Ramjanmabhoomi in Ayodhya because a mosque existed at that place.

"Tharoor has forgotten that Lord Ram was born in Ayodhya and his temple existed at the spot. A mosque was built after demolishing the temple.

"A public protest for Ram temple has been on from last 500 years. No BJP or Congress were there in the movement. It was a public protest. Now, the Supreme Court has fixed the dates of hearing (the Ayodhya title suit). We are hopeful that soon justice will be done and Ram Mandir will be built in Ramjanmabhoomi," he said.

When asked if Ram Mandir will be the BJP's agenda for Lok Sabha elections in 2019, Javdekar said, "Ram Mandir had never been an agenda of our politics or election but the temple should be built in Ramjanmabhoomi because people of the country want it. This is a national demand and sentiments of people are attached with it. This is a matter of faith of people and we never do politics over it."

Responding to a query on a row over a Supreme Court judgment allowing women of all age to visit Sabarimala shrine in Kerala, Javadekar said people reacted because orders were passed against public sentiments.

"Despite peaceful opposition by the devotees, the brutal treatment meted against them by the incumbent Communist government is severely criticised by the Bharatiya Janata Party," he added.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar Sunday said Congress leader Shashi Tharoor's remark on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shiv Linga reflected the party's mentality which had become evident when former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi dubbed the opposition a "scorpion" in 1984 polls.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar Sunday said Congress leader Shashi Tharoor's remark on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shiv Linga reflected the party's mentality which had become evident when former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi dubbed the opposition a "scorpion" in 1984 polls. He also accused the Congress of "indirectly supporting" Maoists and said the BJP governments at the Centre and in Chhattisgarh, where elections would be held next month, were determined to finish the Naxal menace in the coming years. No Congress leader was available for comments. "When Chhattisgarh was formed and the Congress was in power in the state, Naxalism was at its peak. Now it has come down to one-third of the total area which was in control of Naxalites earlier," the human resource development minister said in a press conference in Raipur. Javadekar criticised Tharoor for his reported remark Saturday in which he claimed that an unnamed RSS source had told a journalist that "Prime Minister Modi was like a scorpion sitting on a Shiv Linga who cannot be removed by hand or hit with a chappal (slipper)". When asked about the remark, Javadekar said, "The Congress is wondering on how to take on Modi at the political level and therefore it has resorted to abusing. Rahul baba keeps on abusing daily. People will do only those things which they know. Shashi Tharoor is a bit sophisticated but he has also come down to the 'bichhu' remark." "This was the Congress' advertisement in 1984. Rajiv Gandhi had brought this advertisement of calling the opposition a scorpion in the 1984 elections. It reflects the mentality of Congress," the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) leader claimed. On Naxalism, he said 350 ultras were gunned down in the last five years in Chhattisgarh. "Not only that, around 5,000 misguided tribals have surrendered while thousands of Naxals have been arrested," he said. Hitting back at Congress leader Abhishek Manu Sanghvi who Sunday accused the Chhattisgarh government of being weak in tackling Naxalism, Javadekar said on the contrary the menace was at its peak during the Congress' rule in Chhattisgarh between 2000 and 2003. "The Congress gave birth to Naxalism and it is the party which has encouraged it. The senior Congress leader indirectly supports Maoists. The party had appointed overground supporters of Maoist to the planning commission. It is the record of the Congress," he alleged. Accusing the Congress of adopting "double standards", Javadekar alleged the party had backed overground supporters of Maoists. "Their sympathy towards Maoist is not hidden. No decisive action was taken by the previous UPA government against Naxals. However, the action has been taken against Maoists since the last four years under Modi government and very soon the menace will be neutralised," he claimed. "Chhattisgarh will be free from Maoist activities in the next three years. We are determined to finish the Maoist challenge in the next couple of years which is totally violent and undemocratic. Our policy is clear," the minister said. Slamming Tharoor, Javadekar said the Congress leader had recently said Ram Mandir should not be built in Ramjanmabhoomi in Ayodhya because a mosque existed at that place. "Tharoor has forgotten that Lord Ram was born in Ayodhya and his temple existed at the spot. A mosque was built after demolishing the temple. "A public protest for Ram temple has been on from last 500 years. No BJP or Congress were there in the movement. It was a public protest. Now, the Supreme Court has fixed the dates of hearing (the Ayodhya title suit). We are hopeful that soon justice will be done and Ram Mandir will be built in Ramjanmabhoomi," he said. When asked if Ram Mandir will be the BJP's agenda for Lok Sabha elections in 2019, Javdekar said, "Ram Mandir had never been an agenda of our politics or election but the temple should be built in Ramjanmabhoomi because people of the country want it. This is a national demand and sentiments of people are attached with it. This is a matter of faith of people and we never do politics over it." Responding to a query on a row over a Supreme Court judgment allowing women of all age to visit Sabarimala shrine in Kerala, Javadekar said people reacted because orders were passed against public sentiments. "Despite peaceful opposition by the devotees, the brutal treatment meted against them by the incumbent Communist government is severely criticised by the Bharatiya Janata Party," he added.

Rajiv Gandhi had dubbed opposition scorpion in 1984: Prakash Javadekar

The BJP today alleged that the Congress has forged the signatures of many of its legislators while submitting the party's list of MLAs to the Governor claiming it had the numbers to form the government.

Addressing reporters here, Union Human Resources Minister Prakash Javadekar said one was at a loss to understand how Congress could collect the signatures of all the MLAs even before they arrived in Bengaluru and attended the Congress Legislature Party meeting.

He said forging signatures and other documents were not something new to the Congress.

When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said.

In Karnataka also, the Congress had resorted to their age-old practice, Javadekar said, adding the party has become synonymous with the word forgery.

Defending Governor Vajubhai Vala's action in inviting BJP to form the government, Javadekar said he had only followed the rulebook as there was no pre-poll alliance in Karnataka and Congress and JDS were bitter foes before the poll, where the parties' leaders called each other names.

"During his election campaign in Karnataka, Congress President Rahul Gandhi had termed JDS as the 'B' team of BJP. He had said that JD(S) means nothing but Janata Dal Sangh Parivar. Now they are trying to cobble together an alliance, which is nothing but a sheer opportunistic move," he said.

TheGovernor did the right thing by inviting the single largest party tt&nbspform the government and prove the majority on the floor of theHouse, he added.

Javadekar said it was sad that Congress has held its MLAs captive in 'isolated resorts', severing contacts with their families and not even being allowed to watch newschannels.

Referring to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's remark at Raipur today that the judiciary had been suppressed, Javadekar reminded him of the dark days ofthe Emergency in 1975.

"The grand old party had not only overturned the judicial system but also suppressed the freedom of the press. Instead of seeking pardon for their sins, the Congress leader is tryingto create a false perception," he said.

Against the backdrop of the developments in Karnataka, Gandhi asserted at an event in Raipur that the Constitution is under 'severe attack', even as he said the judiciary and the press were under "fear" that usually happens in Pakistan under "dictatorship" and some African countries ruled by Generals.

He alleged there was an atmosphere of fear in the country with even institutions such as the judiciary and the press being suppressed and threatened.

When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said.

The BJP today alleged that the Congress has forged the signatures of many of its legislators while submitting the party's list of MLAs to the Governor claiming it had the numbers to form the government. Addressing reporters here, Union Human Resources Minister Prakash Javadekar said one was at a loss to understand how Congress could collect the signatures of all the MLAs even before they arrived in Bengaluru and attended the Congress Legislature Party meeting. He said forging signatures and other documents were not something new to the Congress. When the polls in Manipur threw up a hung Assembly, Congress submitted a forged letter of support of the Manipur People's Party. However, it was found that the grand old party had forged it, he said. In Karnataka also, the Congress had resorted to their age-old practice, Javadekar said, adding the party has become synonymous with the word forgery. Defending Governor Vajubhai Vala's action in inviting BJP to form the government, Javadekar said he had only followed the rulebook as there was no pre-poll alliance in Karnataka and Congress and JDS were bitter foes before the poll, where the parties' leaders called each other names. "During his election campaign in Karnataka, Congress President Rahul Gandhi had termed JDS as the 'B' team of BJP. He had said that JD(S) means nothing but Janata Dal Sangh Parivar. Now they are trying to cobble together an alliance, which is nothing but a sheer opportunistic move," he said. TheGovernor did the right thing by inviting the single largest party tt&nbspform the government and prove the majority on the floor of theHouse, he added. Javadekar said it was sad that Congress has held its MLAs captive in 'isolated resorts', severing contacts with their families and not even being allowed to watch newschannels. Referring to Congress President Rahul Gandhi's remark at Raipur today that the judiciary had been suppressed, Javadekar reminded him of the dark days ofthe Emergency in 1975. "The grand old party had not only overturned the judicial system but also suppressed the freedom of the press. Instead of seeking pardon for their sins, the Congress leader is tryingto create a false perception," he said. Against the backdrop of the developments in Karnataka, Gandhi asserted at an event in Raipur that the Constitution is under 'severe attack', even as he said the judiciary and the press were under "fear" that usually happens in Pakistan under "dictatorship" and some African countries ruled by Generals. He alleged there was an atmosphere of fear in the country with even institutions such as the judiciary and the press being suppressed and threatened.

'Signatures of several Congress MLAs in letter to Governor forged'

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